Hinges and electrical equipment

Abstract

This invention discloses a hinge and electrical device. The hinge connects a door and a main body. A panel is provided on one side of the door. During the door's rotation away from the main body, the panel moves relative to the door in a second direction to avoid interference with other structures. The hinge includes a pivot; a hinge arm, which is disposed on the pivot and rotatable relative to the main body, and is used to connect the door and the main body; a drive arm, which is rotatably connected to the panel, and a second guide mechanism is provided between the drive arm and the hinge arm; and a mounting member, which is provided with a first guide mechanism between the mounting member and the drive arm. The first guide mechanism and the second guide mechanism are configured to cause the drive arm to move the panel relative to the door during the door's rotation. The hinge provided by this invention is simple, reliable, and easy to manufacture.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of electrical appliances, and more particularly to a hinge suitable for the front panel of an electrical appliance and an electrical device incorporating the hinge. Background Technology

[0002] In some embedded appliances with revolving doors, decorative panels are often installed on the revolving doors to make the overall style of the appliance match the surrounding environment. However, this may cause the decorative panels to interfere with the ground or other structures below when the revolving door is opened. To avoid this interference, the prior art provides a technology that allows the decorative panels to slide upwards during the opening of the revolving door.

[0003] Taking dishwashers as an example, built-in dishwashers are typically embedded in cabinets. A decorative panel covering the front of the dishwasher is installed on the outside of its rotating door, creating an aesthetically pleasing whole between the dishwasher and the cabinet, serving a decorative purpose. To accommodate users who wish to install longer decorative panels, the panel needs to slide upwards relative to the dishwasher door during opening to avoid interference between the panel and the floor or cabinet structure. However, existing sliding structures for decorative panels usually require complex transmission mechanisms, which are difficult to manufacture, costly to produce, and prone to jamming by foreign objects, resulting in low reliability. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The main objective of this invention is to provide a hinge and an electrical device including the hinge, so as to realize the upward movement of the outer panel of the door relative to the door body during the opening of the rotating door.

[0005] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention provides a hinge for connecting a door body and a main body, such that the door body is rotatably disposed relative to the main body. One side of the door body has a movable panel, which moves relative to the door body during its rotational stroke. The hinge includes:

[0006] Shaft;

[0007] A hinge arm is disposed on the pivot and rotatable relative to the main body, and the hinge arm is used to connect the door body and the main body;

[0008] A drive arm is provided for rotatably connecting with the panel, and a second guide mechanism is provided between the drive arm and the hinge arm;

[0009] The mounting component and the drive arm are provided with a first guide mechanism;

[0010] The first guide mechanism and the second guide mechanism are configured to cause the drive arm to move the panel relative to the door body during the active stroke of the door body rotation.

[0011] In one embodiment, during the rotational stroke of the door body, the drive arm moves following the rotation of the hinge arm, and the first guide mechanism restricts the drive arm from rotating in accordance with the rotation of the hinge arm.

[0012] In one embodiment, during the active stroke of the door rotation, the drive arm reverses relative to the hinge arm.

[0013] In one embodiment, the first guiding mechanism includes a first guide pin and a first guide groove. The first guide pin is inserted into the first guide groove. Either the driving arm or the mounting member is provided with the first guide pin, and the other is provided with the first guide groove. The first guide pin cooperates with the first guide groove so that during the active stroke of the door body rotation, the first guide pin moves along the extension direction of the first guide groove.

[0014] In one embodiment, the first guide groove is straight and extends laterally relative to the body.

[0015] In one embodiment, the first guide groove is straight and is inclined from the main body toward the door.

[0016] In one embodiment, the first guide groove bends from the body toward the door.

[0017] In one embodiment, the first guide groove has a first segment and a second segment arranged sequentially. The first segment is arc-shaped, and the second segment is an arc-shaped segment with a gradually decreasing radius. During the movement of the door body to open the main body, the first guide pin passes through the first segment and the second segment in sequence.

[0018] In one embodiment, during the active stroke of the door body rotation, the drive arm rotates about the first guide pin relative to the hinge arm.

[0019] In one embodiment, the first guide pin is disposed on the drive arm, and the first guide groove is disposed on the mounting member.

[0020] In one embodiment, during the rotational stroke of the door, the second guide mechanism causes the drive arm to move in accordance with the rotation of the hinge arm.

[0021] In one embodiment, the second guiding mechanism includes a second guide pin and a second guide groove. The second guide pin is inserted into the second guide groove. Either the driving arm or the hinge arm is provided with the second guide pin, and the other is provided with the second guide groove. The second guide pin cooperates with the second guide groove so that during the active stroke of the door body rotation, the second guide pin moves along the extension direction of the second guide groove.

[0022] In one embodiment, the second guide groove is straight.

[0023] In one embodiment, the second guide pin is disposed on the drive arm, and the second guide groove is disposed on the hinge arm.

[0024] In one embodiment, the hinge further includes a slider for fixing to the panel, and the drive arm is rotatably connected to the slider to achieve a rotatable connection with the panel.

[0025] In one embodiment, the hinge arm is provided with a groove, and the slider is slidably disposed in the groove.

[0026] In one embodiment, the drive arm is disposed between the hinge arm and the mounting member.

[0027] In one embodiment, the pivot connects the mounting member and the hinge arm.

[0028] In one embodiment, the mounting element is disposed on the body.

[0029] In one embodiment, the drive arm has a first drive end and a second drive end, the first drive end is provided with a first guide mechanism between it and the mounting member, and the second drive end is used to rotatably connect with the panel.

[0030] In one embodiment, the drive arm has an intermediate section between the first drive end and the second drive end, and the intermediate section is provided with a second guide mechanism between it and the hinge arm.

[0031] In one embodiment, during the movement of the door rotating to open the main body, the first drive end and the middle section move closer to the door.

[0032] In one embodiment, the hinge arm includes a first arm and a second arm, the first arm being used to connect to the door body, the second arm being used to elastically connect to the main body, and a second guide mechanism being provided between the second arm and the drive arm.

[0033] In one embodiment, the first arm and the second arm are arranged at an angle, and a first connecting portion is formed at the intersection of the first arm and the second arm, and the first connecting portion is connected to the rotating shaft.

[0034] In one embodiment, during the rotational stroke of the door, the panel translates relative to the door.

[0035] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention also provides an electrical device comprising the hinge described in any one of the claims.

[0036] In one embodiment, it further includes:

[0037] The main body has an internal cavity;

[0038] A door body, which is rotatably connected to the main body via the hinge to open or close the inner cavity;

[0039] A panel, which is movably disposed on one side of the door body;

[0040] The first guide mechanism and the second guide mechanism cooperate to allow the drive arm to move following the rotation of the hinge arm during the movement of the door body to open the main body and open the inner cavity. The first drive end of the drive arm moves along the first guide groove of the first guide mechanism and approaches the door body. The hinge arm drives the drive arm through the second guide mechanism. The middle section of the drive arm moves along the second guide groove of the second guide mechanism and approaches the door body, thereby driving the second drive end of the drive arm to move in a direction away from the hinge, so that the panel moves relative to the door body in a direction away from the hinge.

[0041] In one embodiment, the electrical appliance is a dishwasher.

[0042] In one embodiment, the dishwasher further includes a dish rack disposed within the cavity.

[0043] This invention provides a hinge and an electrical device incorporating the hinge. The hinge connects a door and a main body. A panel is provided on one side of the door. During the door's rotation to open the main body, the panel moves relative to the door, avoiding interference with other structures. In the embodiments provided by this invention, compared to the complex transmission methods in the prior art, the hinge structure achieves the upward movement of the panel as the door opens solely through the guiding linkage between the hinge arm and the drive arm. This results in a simple and reliable transmission, easy manufacturing, and low production costs. Attached Figure Description

[0044] Figure 1 This is an exploded three-dimensional structural diagram of an embodiment of the hinge provided by the present invention;

[0045] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 Enlarged view of point A in the middle;

[0046] Figure 3 This is a side view of an embodiment of the electrical equipment provided by the present invention;

[0047] Figure 4 yes Figure 3 Enlarged view of point B in the middle;

[0048] Figure 5 yes Figure 3 Enlarged view of point C in the middle;

[0049] Figure 6 yes Figure 2 Side view of the door of the electrical equipment in the open state;

[0050] Figure 7 yes Figure 6 Enlarged view of point D in the middle;

[0051] Figure 8 yes Figure 2 Side view of the electrical equipment in the door's travel distance;

[0052] Figure 9 yes Figure 8 Enlarged view of point E in the middle;

[0053] Figure 10 yes Figure 2 Side view of the door of the electrical equipment in the closed state;

[0054] Figure 11 yes Figure 10 Enlarged view of point F in the middle;

[0055] Figure 12 yes Figure 10 A partial schematic diagram of the electrical equipment in the middle;

[0056] Figure 13 yes Figure 12 Enlarged view of point G in the middle;

[0057] Figure 14 yes Figure 8 A partial schematic diagram of the electrical equipment in the middle;

[0058] Figure 15 yes Figure 14 Enlarged view of point H in the middle;

[0059] Figure 16 yes Figure 14 Side view of the electrical equipment in the opposite direction;

[0060] Figure 17 yes Figure 16 Enlarged view of point J in the middle;

[0061] Figure 18 yes Figure 10A partial side view of the electrical equipment in the opposite direction;

[0062] Figure 19 yes Figure 18 A magnified view of point K in the middle.

[0063] Explanation of icon numbers:

[0064] label name label name 100 main body 22 Second driving end 200 Door 23 middle section 201 Fixed end 30 Installation components 202 Rotating end 41 First guide pin 203 pivot 42 First guide groove 300 panel 421 First paragraph 400 roof 422 Second paragraph 500 hinge 51 Second guide pin 10 Hinge arm 52 Second guide groove 11 First connecting part 60 slider 12 First Arm 61 chute 13 Second arm 71 pin 20 drive arm 72 pin hole 21 First driving end 80 Mounting rack

[0065] The realization of the objective, functional features and advantages of the present invention will be further explained in conjunction with the embodiments and with reference to the accompanying drawings. Detailed Implementation

[0066] The technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only a part of the embodiments of the present invention, and not all of the embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present invention, all other embodiments obtained by those of ordinary skill in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0067] It should be noted that if the embodiments of the present invention involve directional indicators (such as up, down, left, right, front, back, etc.), the directional indicators are only used to explain the relative positional relationship and movement of the components in a certain specific posture (as shown in the figure). If the specific posture changes, the directional indicators will also change accordingly.

[0068] Furthermore, if the embodiments of this invention involve descriptions such as "first" or "second," these descriptions are for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying their relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of technical features indicated. Therefore, a feature defined with "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include at least one of those features. Additionally, the technical solutions of the various embodiments can be combined with each other, but this must be based on the ability of those skilled in the art to implement them. If the combination of technical solutions is contradictory or impossible to implement, it should be considered that such a combination of technical solutions does not exist and is not within the scope of protection claimed by this invention.

[0069] In some embedded appliances with revolving doors, decorative panels are often installed on the doors to better match the overall style of the appliance with its surroundings. However, this can cause the decorative panels to interfere with the ground or other structures below when the revolving door is opened. To avoid this interference, existing technology provides techniques for sliding the decorative panels relative to the revolving door, allowing the panels to slide upwards during opening to prevent the lower end of the panels from colliding with the ground or other structures. However, existing sliding structures for decorative panels typically require complex transmission mechanisms such as multi-stage gears, which are difficult to manufacture, costly to produce, and prone to jamming by foreign objects, resulting in low reliability.

[0070] To address the aforementioned technical problems, this invention provides a hinge 500. The hinge 500 allows the outer panel 300 (equivalent to a decorative panel) to move upwards (upwards, i.e., towards the top of the door) during the rotational opening of the door 200 (equivalent to a revolving door). This upward movement can be achieved through sliding or translating upwards. During the rotational closing of the door 200, the panel 300 returns to its original position. The hinge 500 can be applied to furniture or to built-in electrical appliances, such as built-in dishwashers and built-in ovens.

[0071] The present invention also provides an electrical appliance including the hinge 500. In one embodiment, the electrical appliance is a dishwasher, which has an inner cavity for loading tableware, and a dish rack is provided in the inner cavity, in which the tableware is loaded. In the following embodiments, taking a dishwasher as an example, the structure of the electrical appliance and the hinge 500 will be described in detail.

[0072] Built-in dishwashers are typically installed within cabinets. A decorative panel covering the front of the dishwasher is mounted on the outside of its rotating door. The material and design of this panel usually match the cabinet door, creating a cohesive and aesthetically pleasing whole. The dimensions of the decorative panel can be designed to fit the shape of the adjacent cabinets to meet user needs. In some cases, the decorative panel needs to be longer to fully cover the dishwasher, resulting in a more unified and aesthetically pleasing appearance. However, this may cause the lower edge of the panel to interfere with the cabinet or floor when the dishwasher door is opened, leading to inconvenience for the user.

[0073] Therefore, in the embodiments provided by the present invention, please refer to Figures 1 to 3 The electrical appliance includes a main body 100, a door 200, and a hinge 500 connecting the main body 100 and the door 200. The main body 100 can be the body of the electrical appliance, such as the body of a built-in dishwasher. The main body 100 has an inner cavity with an opening, and the door 200 is openable and closable at the opening. In this embodiment, as... Figures 6 to 11 As shown, the door 200 is rotatably connected to the main body 100 via the hinge 500. The door 200 rotates about a first direction, which is the direction in which the pivot 203 extends. Generally, the first direction is parallel to the placement surface of the main body 100, for example, parallel to the ground. The door 200 has a closed state (specifically, closing the opening) and an open state (specifically, opening the opening). The door 200 has a fixed end 201 and a rotating end 202 arranged along a second direction, which may intersect the first direction. Here, the fixed end 201 and the rotating end 202 are relative; the end closer to the hinge 500 is the fixed end 201, and the end farther from the hinge 500 is the rotating end. For example, when the electrical equipment is placed on the ground, the bottom end of the door 200 is the fixed end 201, and the top end is the rotating end 202. The fixed end 201 is rotatably connected to the main body 100 via a rotating shaft 203 extending about a first direction. The rotating end 202 rotates relative to the fixed end 201 to switch the door 200 between the open state and the closed state. Figures 6 to 11 As shown, during the process of the door 200 switching from the closed state to the open state, the rotating end 202 has a travel distance around the fixed end 201, rotating away from the main body 100. Conversely, during the process of the door 200 switching from the open state to the closed state, the rotating end 202 has a travel distance around the fixed end 201, rotating closer to the main body 100.

[0074] In this embodiment, the first direction is the extension direction of the pivot 203, and the second direction is the direction in which the panel 300 moves relative to the door 200. The second direction can be approximately parallel to the plane containing the outer side of the door 200. Specifically, the first direction and the second direction intersect, preferably the first direction is substantially perpendicular to the second direction, and the actual directions of the first and second directions are not limited. In a preferred embodiment, the first direction can extend approximately horizontally, and the second direction is approximately parallel to the outer side of the door 200 and substantially perpendicular to the first direction. Taking a dishwasher as an example, the first direction is approximately horizontal, while the second direction is parallel to the outer side of the door 200 and substantially perpendicular to the first direction. When the door 200 is in the closed state, the second direction extends vertically. In this way, the door 200 can be flipped open from top to bottom relative to the main body 100, while the panel 300 moves relative to the outer side of the door 200 toward the rotating end 202, that is, away from the hinge 500, to avoid interference or collision between the lower end of the panel 300 and the ground or other structures.

[0075] It should be noted that the directional descriptions in this invention apply only to the orientation of the electrical equipment in its normal operating state after installation, and do not include the orientation of the electrical equipment during production, assembly, or transportation. The horizontal direction refers to a direction approximately parallel to the horizontal plane, and the vertical direction refers to a direction approximately parallel to the direction of gravity, or a direction that forms a certain angle with the direction of gravity but is not perpendicular to it.

[0076] The electrical equipment also includes a panel 300, which is movably disposed on one side of the door 200. More specifically, the panel 300 can be movably disposed on one side of the door 200 along the second direction. During the rotational stroke of the door 200, the panel 300 can move relative to the door 200 (e.g., slide relative to the door 200 substantially parallel to it). Of course, those skilled in the art will understand that when the door is opened, i.e., during the rotational stroke of the rotating end 202 away from the main body 100, the panel 300 moves relative to the door 200 along the second direction and away from the fixed end 201. The panel 300 can be a decorative panel or other plate-like structure that can move relative to the door 200. In this embodiment, since the panel 300 moves from the fixed end 201 to the rotating end 202 as the door 200 rotates and opens, interference and collision between the end of the panel 300 near the fixed end 201 and surrounding structures, such as cabinets and the ground, can be avoided. Of course, when the door 200 changes from the open state to the closed state, the panel 300 can be reset in the opposite direction (from the rotating end 202 to the fixed end 201).

[0077] To achieve the above-mentioned transmission, in this embodiment, please refer to [reference needed]. Figures 1 to 3 The present invention also provides a hinge 500 for connecting the door body 200 and the main body 100, such that the door body 200 is rotatably disposed relative to the main body 100 about a pivot 203 extending in a first direction. A movable panel 300 is provided on one side of the door body 200. The door body 200 has a fixed end 201 and a rotating end 202 disposed in a second direction. During the movement of the door body 200 from the closed state to the open state, the rotating end 202 rotates about the fixed end 201 and moves away from the main body 100. Conversely, during the movement of the door body 200 from the open state to the closed state, the rotating end 202 rotates about the fixed end 201 and moves closer to the main body 100.

[0078] Please continue reading. Figure 3The door 200 has a panel 300 on one side, specifically the side of the door 200 facing away from the main body 100. During the opening of the door 200, the rotating end 202 rotates away from the main body 100, while the panel 300 moves relative to the door 200 along the second direction and away from the fixed end 201. Thus, as the door 200 opens, the panel 300 moves from the fixed end 201 towards the rotating end 202, preventing interference or collision between the end of the panel 300 near the fixed end 201 and surrounding structures such as cabinets or the floor. Conversely, during the closing of the door 200, the rotating end 202 rotates closer to the main body 100, while the panel 300 moves relative to the door 200 along the second direction and closer to the fixed end 201 (i.e., the opposite direction) (equivalent to the panel 300 resetting). Thus, as the door 200 rotates and closes, the panel 300 moves from the rotating end 202 toward the fixed end 201, so that when the door 200 is closed, the position of the panel 300 matches the cabinet around the electrical equipment, resulting in a more unified and aesthetically pleasing appearance.

[0079] Further, the hinge 500 includes a pivot 203, a hinge arm 10, a drive arm 20, and a mounting component 30. In this embodiment, the specific shape and size of the pivot 203, the hinge arm 10, the drive arm 20, and the mounting component 30 are not limited. For example, the hinge arm 10, the drive arm 20, and the mounting component 30 can be plate-shaped, rod-shaped, etc. Specifically, the hinge arm 10 is used to rotatably connect the main body 100 and the door body 200. Please refer to [link to relevant documentation]. Figures 6 to 11The hinge arm 10 has a first connecting portion 11 for rotatably connecting around the pivot 203. The pivot 203 extends along the first direction. The position of the pivot 203 is not limited, as long as it can ensure that the hinge arm 10 can rotate relative to the main body 100. For example, the pivot 203 is fixed to the mounting member 30, and the mounting member 30 is set on the main body 100. The hinge arm 10 is rotatably set on the pivot 203, that is, the pivot 203 connects the mounting member 30 and the hinge arm 10 (the pivot 203 is fixed to the mounting member 30, and the hinge arm 10 is rotatably connected to the pivot 203, or the pivot 203 is fixed to the hinge arm 10, and the pivot 203 is rotatably connected to the mounting member 30). Furthermore, the drive arm 20 can be set between the hinge arm 10 and the mounting member 30 to simplify the structure. The hinge arm 10 also has a first arm 12 and a second arm 13 around the pivot 203. The first arm 12 is used to connect to the door body 200, such as to the fixed end 201. The second arm 13 is used to connect to the main body 100. Generally, the second arm 13 is elastically connected to the main body 100, that is, elastically connected to the main body 100 through a pull rope and a tension spring. Through the hinge 500, the rotational connection between the main body 100 and the door body 200 can be realized, so that the rotating end 202 rotates around the fixed end 201 to move closer to or away from the main body 100, thereby allowing the door body 200 to switch between the closed state and the open state.

[0080] The drive arm 20 is used for a rotatable connection with the panel 300. This rotatable connection is relative; for example, when the door 200 is opened or closed, the drive arm 20 and the panel 300 can rotate relative to each other. This could be because the drive arm 20 remains stationary while the panel 300 rotates, or both the drive arm 20 and the panel 300 rotate. As long as either one can rotate relative to the other, it can be considered a rotatable connection. For details, please refer to the following: Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figures 12 to 19A second guide mechanism is provided between the drive arm 20 and the hinge arm 10, and a first guide mechanism is provided between the mounting member 30 and the drive arm 20. The first guide mechanism and the second guide mechanism are configured to cause the drive arm 20 to move the panel 300 relative to the door body 200 during the rotational stroke of the door body 200. It can be understood that the rotational stroke of the door body 200 includes the opening stroke and the closing stroke. During the rotational stroke of the door body 200, the drive arm 20 rotates relative to the panel 300. As mentioned above, the rotation of the drive arm 20 relative to the panel 300 is relative; as long as either one can rotate relative to the other, it can be considered a rotational connection, which will not be repeated here. When the door 200 is opened, because the hinge arm 10 and the drive arm 20 are directly or indirectly connected to the door 200, the door 200 can drive the hinge arm 10 and the drive arm 20 to move. By setting a first guide mechanism between the mounting member 30 and the drive arm 20, and setting a second guide mechanism between the drive arm 20 and the hinge arm 10, the first guide mechanism and the second guide mechanism together constrain the drive arm 20, thereby causing the drive arm 20 to rotate relative to the panel 300 and drive the panel 300 to move relative to the door 200.

[0081] Specifically, during the rotational stroke of the door 200, the drive arm 20 moves in tandem with the hinge arm 10, and the first guide mechanism restricts the drive arm 20 from rotating in tandem with the hinge arm 10. For example, during the opening stroke, when the hinge arm 10 rotates, it can drive the drive arm 20 closer to the door 200. Restricting the drive arm 20 from rotating in tandem with the hinge arm 10 can be understood as the amplitudes of the drive arm 20 and the hinge arm 10 being inconsistent. For example, the drive arm 20 and the hinge arm 10 can rotate relative to each other. This could mean that the drive arm 20 does not rotate while the hinge arm 10 rotates, or that the amplitude of the drive arm 20's rotation is less than the amplitude of the hinge arm 10's rotation, or that the rotation direction of the drive arm 20 is different from the rotation direction of the hinge arm 10. In addition to the different (reversal of drive arm 20 relative to hinge arm 10), the drive arm 20 can also be restricted to linear reciprocating motion while the hinge arm 10 rotates, etc. In other words, when the hinge arm 10 rotates, a constraint is applied to the drive arm 20 so that when it moves with the rotation of the hinge arm 10, in conjunction with the second guide mechanism, when the door is open, the panel 300 moves away from the hinge 500 relative to the door 200, and when the door 200 is closed, the panel 300 moves towards the hinge 500 relative to the door 200.

[0082] Specifically, during the rotational stroke of the door 200, the second guide mechanism causes the drive arm 20 to move in tandem with the rotation of the hinge arm 10. For example, during the opening stroke of the door, the hinge arm 10 rotates, and the drive arm 20 moves towards the door 200 following the hinge arm 10. At this time, in conjunction with the first guide mechanism, the drive arm 20 moves towards the door 200, thereby acting on the panel 300. For example, when the door 200 is open, the first guide mechanism restricts the rotation of the drive arm 20, but due to the driving effect of the second guide mechanism, the drive arm 20 moves towards the door 200 as a whole, thus causing the drive arm 20 to move away from the hinge. At this time, the panel 300 rotates relative to the drive arm 20. In this way, the second guide mechanism can effectively make the movement of the panel 300 and the rotation of the door 200 more smoothly linked.

[0083] Compared to existing technologies that use multi-stage gear transmission and other structures to move the panel 300 as the door 200 opens or closes, the technical solution provided in this embodiment can achieve the linkage between the rotation of the door 200 and the movement of the panel 300 simply through the constraint between the hinge arm 10, the drive arm 20 and the mounting component 30 in the hinge 500. The structure is simple and reliable, and the hinge 500 structure is easy to manufacture, has low production cost, simple transmission, is not prone to jamming, and has high reliability.

[0084] Specifically, please refer to the following: Figure 1 ,and Figures 12 to 19 The drive arm 20 has a first drive end 21 and a second drive end 22. A first guide mechanism is provided between the first drive end 21 and the mounting member 30. The second drive end 22 is rotatably connected to the panel 300. That is, the travel of the first drive end 21 of the drive arm 20 is constrained by the first guide mechanism. It can be understood that since the panel 300 has a travel relative to the door body 200 (e.g., along the second direction), during the rotational opening travel of the door body 200, the movement of the hinge arm 10 causes the drive arm 20 to be subjected to force and change position. The first guide mechanism constrains the hinge arm 10, thus limiting the travel trajectory of the drive arm 20. Specifically, for example, during the opening travel, the first guide mechanism limits the movement trajectory of the first drive end 21 relative to the main body 100 to gradually approach the door body 200, thereby causing the second drive end 22 of the drive arm 20 to drive the panel 300 to move along the second direction and away from the fixed end 201 as the hinge arm 10 rotates.

[0085] The specific structures of the first and second guiding mechanisms are not limited in this embodiment. For example, they can be mutually cooperating sliding pins and sliding grooves, as long as they can constrain the driving arm 20 and drive it to move. During the rotation of the rotating end 202 away from the main body 100, the first driving end 21's movement trajectory gradually approaches the door body 200 through the first and second guiding mechanisms. This allows the driving arm 20 to drive the second driving end 22 to move the panel 300 relative to the door body 200 along the second direction and away from the fixed end 201 during the opening of the hinge arm 10. Conversely, during the closing of the door body 200, the rotating end 202 rotates closer to the main body 100. Through the first and second guiding mechanisms, the driving arm 20 can also drive the second driving end 22 to move the panel 300 relative to the door body 200 along the second direction and closer to the fixed end 201 during the closing of the hinge arm 10. The first driving end 21's movement trajectory gradually moves away from the door body 200.

[0086] It is understood that the first guiding mechanism can be disposed between the drive arm 20 and the main body 100, for example, by directly forming the sliding pin or sliding groove on the main body 100, and correspondingly providing the sliding groove or sliding pin on the drive arm 20. This arrangement results in fewer components for the hinge 500, occupies less space, and is beneficial for maximizing the size of the electrical equipment.

[0087] In this embodiment, please refer to the relevant documentation. Figure 1 , Figures 12 to 19 The first guiding mechanism is equipped with a sliding pin or groove via a mounting component 30 that is separately disposed from the main body 100. The mounting component 30 can be connected to the main body 100 by bolts, welding, or other means. Compared to a technical solution that directly processes the main body 100, this embodiment uses a separately disposed mounting component 30 to cooperate with the drive arm 20. The first guiding mechanism is located between the mounting component 30 and the drive arm 20, making the hinge 500 easier to manufacture and reducing production costs. Furthermore, it allows for the use of existing electrical equipment structures without the need for new molds, reducing R&D costs. It also greatly benefits the application of different materials for the hinge 500 and the main body 100.

[0088] Please continue to refer to the following: Figure 1 , Figures 12 to 19Specifically, the mounting component 30 can be fixed to the main body 100 by means of bolts or other structures. The first guiding mechanism includes a first guide pin 41 and a first guide groove 42 respectively disposed on the drive arm 20 and the mounting component 30. Specifically, the first guide pin 41 can be disposed on the first drive end 21 of the drive arm 20 and the first guide groove 42 can be disposed on the mounting component 30, or the first guide pin 41 can be disposed on the mounting component 30 and the first guide groove 42 can be disposed on the first drive end 21 of the drive arm 20, as long as the cooperation between the first drive end 21 and the mounting component 30 can be achieved. The first guide pin 41 and the first guide groove 42 cooperate (insert each other) so that during the active stroke of the rotating end 202 rotating away from the main body 100, the movement trajectory of the second drive end 22 gradually approaches the door body 200. Conversely, during the active stroke of the rotating end 202 rotating towards the main body 100, the movement trajectory of the second drive end 22 gradually moves away from the door body 200.

[0089] With the above structural arrangement, during the rotational opening of the door 200, when the first driving end 21 of the drive arm 20 is pulled towards the door 200, its rotation is also restricted by the cooperation of the first guide pin 41 and the first guide groove 42, thereby driving the second driving end 22 of the drive arm 20 to drive the panel 300 to move along the door 200 towards the rotating end 202. Conversely, during the rotational closing of the door 200, when the first driving end 21 of the drive arm 20 is pulled towards the main body 100, its rotation is also restricted by the cooperation of the first guide pin 41 and the first guide groove 42, thereby driving the second driving end 22 of the drive arm 20 to drive the panel 300 to move along the door 200 towards the fixed end 201. In this embodiment, the rotational action of the door 200 opening or closing and the action of the panel 300 moving along the door 200 can be linked by the setting of the first guide pin 41 and the first guide groove 42. The structure is simple and reliable. Compared with complex transmission structures such as multi-stage gears, it is not easy to jam and is easy to manufacture with low production cost.

[0090] Preferably, in this embodiment, please continue to refer to... Figure 1 , Figures 12 to 19The first guide pin 41 is disposed at the first drive end 21, and the first guide groove 42 is disposed at the mounting member 30. The first guide groove 42 bends from the main body 100 toward the door body 200. The specific shape of the first guide groove 42 can be various, such as a straight line or an arc, or a combination of straight and arc shapes, as long as it can restrict the drive arm 20, so that during the rotation of the hinge arm 10 to open or close, the second drive end 22 of the drive arm 20 drives the panel 300 to move along the door body 200 toward the fixed end 201 or the rotating end 202.

[0091] As mentioned above, the first guide groove 42 can be straight (entirely straight without significant curvature). When the first guide groove 42 is straight, it can extend laterally or be inclined from the main body 100 toward the door 200. Of course, compared to a straight groove, a curved first guide groove 42 can offer lower resistance to a certain extent, and can be designed to allow the panel 200 to move at a non-uniform speed. For example, in this embodiment, the first guide groove 42 extends in an arc shape to make the sliding of the first guide pin 41 smoother and prevent jamming.

[0092] In this embodiment, the first guide groove 42 on the mounting member 30 constrains the first driving end 21 of the driving arm 20, causing the second driving end 22 of the driving arm 20 to move relative to the hinge arm 10 along the second direction. Thus, during the outward rotation of the hinge arm 10's pivot 203 extending along the first direction (opening stroke), the driving arm 20 is driven, causing the panel 300 to move along the second direction away from the fixed end 201. Conversely, during the inward rotation of the hinge arm 10's pivot 203 extending along the first direction (closing stroke), the driving arm 20 is driven, causing the panel 300 to move along the second direction closer to the fixed end 210. In this embodiment, the linkage between the opening rotation of the door 200 and the movement of the panel 300 along the door 200 can be achieved through the first guide pin 41 and the first guide groove 42. The structure is simple and reliable, less prone to jamming compared to complex transmission structures such as multi-stage gears, and easier to manufacture with lower production costs.

[0093] Further reading can be found in sections 3 and 4. Figure 5In some cases, there may be obstructions near the rotating end 202 of the door 200. Taking a built-in dishwasher installed in a cabinet as an example, the top panel 400 on the upper side of the cabinet may interfere with the upper end of the panel 300. If the panel 300 begins to move upward relative to the door 200 too early during the door's opening process, the upper end of the panel 300 may collide with the top panel 400, affecting user experience. In this case, the panel 300 needs to be designed to not move upward or move upward only slightly during the initial stroke of the door 200's opening to avoid collision between the upper end of the panel 300 and the top panel 400. Then, it needs to move towards the top of the door 200 during the later part of the opening stroke to avoid collision between the lower end of the panel 300 and the ground. In other words, the movement speed of the panel 300 is uneven throughout the entire opening stroke of the door 200 and needs to be designed according to the actual situation. It is understandable that, in other cases, the travel distance of the panel 300 relative to the door 200 during the opening process may also be adaptively designed according to actual needs. In traditional complex transmission structures, such adaptive design requires precise design by technicians, incurring high research and development costs. However, in the embodiment provided by this invention, the design requirements for the travel distance of the panel 300 relative to the door 200 can be met simply by adaptively designing the shape of the first guide groove 42. This not only enables multiple travel distance designs but is also easy to implement, with low research and development costs and high reliability.

[0094] In one embodiment, please continue to refer to Figure 3 and Figure 5In an appliance such as a dishwasher, to avoid interference between the upper part of the panel 300 and the top plate 400, the position of the panel 300 relative to the door 200 remains unchanged during the initial stroke of the door 200's rotation opening, thus preventing the upper part of the panel 300 from colliding with the top plate 400. During the subsequent stroke of the door 200's rotation opening, the panel 300 moves relative to the door 200 along the second direction and away from the fixed end 201, thus preventing the lower part of the panel 300 from colliding with the ground. It can be understood that, in this embodiment, the initial stroke and the subsequent stroke refer to two stages arranged in time during the door 200's rotation opening stroke. The initial stroke and the subsequent stroke can be arranged adjacently or alternately. Similarly, during the initial phase of the door 200's rotation to close, the panel 300 moves relative to the door 200 along the second direction and towards the fixed end 201 to avoid the lower end of the panel 300 colliding with the ground. During the subsequent phase of the door 200's rotation to close, the position of the panel 300 relative to the door 200 remains unchanged. This prevents the upper end of the panel 300 from colliding with the top plate 400.

[0095] For details, please continue reading Figure 2The first guide groove 42 has a first segment 421 and a second segment 422 arranged sequentially. The first segment 421 is arc-shaped, meaning that the first segment 421 is an arc with a basically constant radius. Thus, during the initial stroke of the door 200 opening, the first guide pin 41 slides in the first segment 421, that is, the drive arm 20 is not constrained by the first guide mechanism (it is not restricted to rotate with the hinge arm 10). The first drive end 21 of the drive arm 20 rotates relative to the rotating shaft 203, while the second drive end 22 remains stationary or moves only slightly relative to the hinge arm 10, thus not driving the panel 300 to move relative to the door 200. In other words, during the initial stroke of the rotating end 202 moving away from the main body 100, the panel 300 is fixed relative to the door 200. During the latter part of the opening stroke of the door 200, the rotating end 202 continues to rotate away from the main body 100. Since the second segment 422 is arranged in an arc shape with a gradually decreasing radius, the drive arm 20 is subject to rotation restriction when it moves with the hinge arm 10 (as mentioned above, the rotation restriction can be understood as the movement range of the drive arm 20 and the hinge arm 10 being inconsistent. For example, the drive arm 20 and the hinge arm 10 can rotate relative to each other. This could be that the drive arm 20 does not rotate while the hinge arm 10 rotates, or the rotation range of the drive arm 20 around the first guide pin 41 is less than the rotation range of the hinge arm 10, or the rotation direction of the drive arm 20 around the first guide pin 41 is different from the rotation direction of the hinge arm 10 (i.e., reversed)). As a result, the second drive end 22 drives the panel 300 to move relative to the door 200 along the second direction and away from the fixed end 201. It is understood that, through the structural design of the hinge 500 described above, the panel 300 has the opposite movement stroke during the closing stroke of the door 200, which will not be elaborated further here.

[0096] Through the above structure, during the initial stage of the door 200's rotation and opening, the position of the panel 300 relative to the door 200 remains unchanged. During the later stage of the door 200's rotation and opening, the panel 300 moves relative to the door 200 along the second direction and away from the fixed end 201, thereby preventing the panel 300 from colliding with the top plate 400. Conversely, during the initial stage of the door 200's rotation and closing, the panel 300 moves relative to the door 200 along the second direction and closer to the fixed end 201. During the later stage of the door 200's rotation and closing, the position of the panel 300 relative to the door 200 remains unchanged. This again prevents the panel 300 from colliding with the top plate 400. Thus, in this embodiment, through the simple structural design of the first guide groove 42, the movement stroke control of the panel 300 during the rotation of the door 200 is achieved. The structure is simple and easy to implement, and further, the movement speed of the panel 300 can be precisely controlled according to the actual situation of the electrical equipment, improving the user experience.

[0097] To further limit the rotation and movement trajectory of the drive arm 20, and to make the linkage between the movement of the panel 300 and the rotation of the door 200 smoother, the drive arm 20 has an intermediate section 23 between the first drive end 21 and the second drive end 22. A second guide mechanism is provided between the intermediate section 23 and the hinge arm 10. The intermediate section 23 cooperates with the hinge arm 10 through the second guide mechanism. Thus, by further increasing the constraint point between the hinge arm 10 and the drive arm 20, the movement trajectory of the drive arm 20 is more reliably limited, and the force points exerted by the hinge arm 10 on the drive arm 20 during rotation are increased. This results in the first drive end 21 and the intermediate section 23 moving closer to the door 200 during the rotational opening of the main body 100. Because the driving force on the drive arm 20 is more balanced, the drive arm 20 is driven more smoothly and is less prone to jamming.

[0098] For further information, please refer to the following recommendations. Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figures 12 to 19 The hinge arm 10 includes a first arm 12 and a second arm 13. The first arm 12 is used to connect to the door body 200, and the second arm 13 is used to elastically connect to the main body 100. A second guide mechanism is provided between the second arm 13 and the drive arm 20. The first arm 12 and the second arm 13 are arranged at an included angle, and the connection between the first arm 12 and the second arm 13 forms the first connecting part 11. The first connecting part 11 is connected to or rotatably connected to the rotating shaft 203.

[0099] Based on the previous embodiment, please continue to refer to... Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figures 12 to 19 The second guiding mechanism includes a second guide pin 51 and a second guide groove 52, with the second guide pin 51 inserted into the second guide groove 52. In this embodiment, the second guide groove 52 may be located on the hinge arm 10, while the second guide pin 51 may be located on the drive arm 20. In other embodiments, the second guide groove 52 may be located on the drive arm 20, and the second guide pin 51 may be located on the hinge arm 10. In this embodiment, the second guide groove 52 and the second guide pin 51 cooperate (insert), so that the middle part of the drive arm 20 is constrained by the hinge arm 10. Thus, by further increasing the constraint point between the second arm 13 of the hinge arm 10 and the middle section 23 of the drive arm 20, the movement trajectory of the drive arm 20 is more reliably restricted, and the force points exerted by the hinge arm 10 on the drive arm 20 during rotation are increased. Because the driving force on the drive arm 20 is more balanced, the drive arm 20 is driven more smoothly and is less prone to jamming.

[0100] In a preferred embodiment, such as Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figures 12 to 19 The second guide pin 51 is located in the intermediate section 23, and the second guide groove 52 is located in the second arm 13. The second guide pin 51 moves in the extending direction of the second guide groove 52. Figure 2 As shown, the second guide groove 52 extends in a basically straight line, for example, it can extend along the length direction of the second arm 13. Thus, in this embodiment, during rotation of the hinge arm 10, the middle portion of the drive arm 20 is constrained by the hinge arm 10. Through the second guide groove 52 acting on the second guide pin 51, the drive arm 20 is driven to swing. Meanwhile, the first drive end 21 of the drive arm 20 is constrained by the first guide groove 42, causing the second drive end 22 of the drive arm 20 to move the panel 300 relative to the door body 200. Specifically, during the rotation of the door body 200 to open, the drive arm 20 drives the panel 300 to move relative to the door body 200 along the second direction and away from the fixed end 201. During the rotation of the door body 200 to close, the drive arm 20 drives the panel 300 to move relative to the door body 200 along the second direction and closer to the fixed end 201.

[0101] There are various ways to connect the second driving terminal 22 to the panel 300. In this embodiment, please refer to the following documentation. Figure 1 and Figure 2The hinge 500 further includes a slider 60 for fixing the panel 300. The first arm 12 is provided with a groove 61 extending along the length direction of the first arm 12. The drive arm 20 is rotatably connected to the slider 60 to achieve a rotatable connection with the panel 300. More specifically, the hinge arm 10 is provided with a groove 61, the slider 60 is slidably disposed in the groove 61, and the second drive end 22 and the slider 60 are respectively provided with a pin 71 and a pin 71 hole. The pin 71 and the pin 71 hole cooperate to make the second drive end 22 rotatably connected to the slider 60. In this embodiment, the slider 60 facilitates the connection of the panel 300, allowing the second drive end 22 to rotate with the panel 300 via the slider 60. Specifically, the slider 60 secures the panel 300 to the mounting bracket 80, ensuring a firm fixation. The slider 60 makes the panel 300 more reliably fixed, preventing it from detaching from the door body 200 after prolonged use. Alternatively, screws can be used to directly fix the slider 60 and the panel 300. Furthermore, the rotatable connection between the slider 60 and the second drive end 22 facilitates assembly and disassembly, reducing the maintenance cost of the hinge 500.

[0102] As can be seen from the above, this application discloses a hinge 500, which can be used in electrical equipment.

[0103] Specifically, the electrical equipment includes: a main body 100 having an inner cavity; a door 200 rotatably connected to the main body 100 via a hinge 500 to open or close the inner cavity; a panel 300 movably disposed on one side of the door 200; and a hinge 500, which is the hinge 500 of any of the above embodiments.

[0104] During the movement of the door 200 opening the main body 100 to open the inner cavity, the drive arm 20 moves following the rotation of the hinge arm 10. The first drive end 21 of the drive arm 20 moves along the first guide groove 42 of the first guide mechanism and approaches the door 200. The hinge arm 10 drives the drive arm 20 through the second guide mechanism. That is, when the hinge arm 10 rotates, the second guide mechanism can drive the drive arm 20 to move towards the door 20. Due to the constraint of the first guide mechanism, the drive arm 20 is constrained to rotate following the rotation of the hinge arm 10. This causes the middle section 23 of the drive arm 20 to move along the second guide groove 52 of the second guide mechanism and approach the door 200. This can drive the second drive end 22 of the drive arm 20 to move in a direction away from the hinge 500, so that the panel 300 moves relative to the door 200 in a direction away from the hinge 500. During the closing stroke of the door 200, the panel 300 has the opposite movement stroke, which will not be described in detail here.

[0105] The above description is merely a preferred embodiment of the present invention and does not limit the patent scope of the present invention. Any equivalent structural transformations made using the contents of the present invention's specification and drawings under the inventive concept of the present invention, or direct / indirect applications in other related technical fields, are included within the patent protection scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. A hinge for connecting a door body and a main body, such that the door body is rotatably disposed relative to the main body, wherein a movable panel is provided on one side of the door body, and the panel moves relative to the door body during the rotational stroke of the door body, characterized in that... The hinge includes: Shaft; A hinge arm is disposed on the pivot and rotatable relative to the main body, and the hinge arm is used to connect the door body and the main body; A drive arm is provided for rotatably connecting with the panel, and a second guide mechanism is provided between the drive arm and the hinge arm; The mounting component and the drive arm are provided with a first guide mechanism; The first guide mechanism and the second guide mechanism are configured to cause the drive arm to move the panel relative to the door body during the active stroke of the door body rotation. The drive arm has a first drive end and a second drive end. The first drive end is provided with a first guide mechanism between it and the mounting component. The second drive end is used to rotately connect with the panel. The drive arm has an intermediate section between the first drive end and the second drive end, and the second guide mechanism is provided between the intermediate section and the hinge arm.

2. The hinge as described in claim 1, characterized in that, During the rotational stroke of the door, the drive arm moves in accordance with the rotation of the hinge arm, and the first guide mechanism restricts the drive arm from rotating in accordance with the rotation of the hinge arm.

3. The hinge as described in claim 2, characterized in that, During the rotation of the door, the drive arm reverses relative to the hinge arm.

4. The hinge as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The first guiding mechanism includes a first guide pin and a first guide groove. The first guide pin is inserted into the first guide groove. Either the driving arm or the mounting component is provided with the first guide pin, and the other is provided with the first guide groove. The first guide pin cooperates with the first guide groove so that during the active stroke of the door body rotation, the first guide pin moves along the extension direction of the first guide groove.

5. The hinge as described in claim 4, characterized in that, The first guide groove is straight and extends laterally relative to the main body.

6. The hinge as described in claim 4, characterized in that, The first guide groove is straight and is inclined from the main body toward the door.

7. The hinge as described in claim 4, characterized in that, The first guide groove bends from the main body toward the door.

8. The hinge as described in claim 7, characterized in that, The first guide groove has a first section and a second section arranged in sequence. The first section is arranged in an arc shape, and the second section is arranged in an arc shape with a gradually decreasing radius. During the movement of the door body to open the main body, the first guide pin passes through the first section and the second section in sequence.

9. The hinge as described in claim 6 or 7, characterized in that, During the rotation of the door, the drive arm rotates relative to the hinge arm about the first guide pin.

10. The hinge as claimed in claim 4, characterized in that, The first guide pin is disposed on the drive arm, and the first guide groove is disposed on the mounting component.

11. The hinge as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that, During the rotation of the door, the second guide mechanism causes the drive arm to move in accordance with the rotation of the hinge arm.

12. The hinge as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that, The second guiding mechanism includes a second guide pin and a second guide groove. The second guide pin is inserted into the second guide groove. Either the driving arm or the hinge arm is provided with the second guide pin, and the other is provided with the second guide groove. The second guide pin cooperates with the second guide groove so that during the active stroke of the door body rotation, the second guide pin moves along the extension direction of the second guide groove.

13. The hinge as claimed in claim 12, characterized in that, The second guide groove is straight.

14. The hinge as claimed in claim 12, characterized in that, The second guide pin is disposed on the drive arm, and the second guide groove is disposed on the hinge arm.

15. The hinge as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that, The hinge also includes a slider for fixing to the panel, and the drive arm is rotatably connected to the slider to achieve a rotatable connection with the panel.

16. The hinge as claimed in claim 15, characterized in that, The hinge arm is provided with a slide groove, and the slider is slidably disposed in the slide groove.

17. The hinge as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 8 and 10 to 16, characterized in that, The drive arm is disposed between the hinge arm and the mounting component; And / or, the pivot connects the mounting element and the hinge arm; And / or, the mounting element is disposed on the body.

18. The hinge as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that, During the movement of the door body rotating to open the main body, the first drive end and the middle section move closer to the door body.

19. The hinge as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that, The hinge arm includes a first arm and a second arm. The first arm is used to connect with the door body, and the second arm is used to elastically connect with the main body. A second guide mechanism is provided between the second arm and the drive arm.

20. The hinge as claimed in claim 19, characterized in that, The first arm and the second arm are arranged at an angle, and the intersection of the first arm and the second arm forms a first connecting part, which is connected to the rotating shaft.

21. The hinge as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that, During the rotation of the door, the panel translates relative to the door.

22. An electrical appliance, characterized in that, Includes the hinge as described in any one of claims 1 to 21.

23. The electrical equipment as described in claim 22, characterized in that, Also includes: The main body has an internal cavity; A door body, which is rotatably connected to the main body via the hinge to open or close the inner cavity; A panel, which is movably disposed on one side of the door body; The first guide mechanism and the second guide mechanism cooperate to allow the drive arm to move following the rotation of the hinge arm during the movement of the door body to open the main body and open the inner cavity. The first drive end of the drive arm moves along the first guide groove of the first guide mechanism and approaches the door body. The hinge arm drives the drive arm through the second guide mechanism. The middle section of the drive arm moves along the second guide groove of the second guide mechanism and approaches the door body, thereby driving the second drive end of the drive arm to move in a direction away from the hinge, so that the panel moves relative to the door body in a direction away from the hinge.

24. The electrical equipment as described in claim 23, characterized in that, The electrical appliance is a dishwasher.

25. The electrical equipment as described in claim 24, characterized in that, The dishwasher also includes a dish rack disposed within the cavity.

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