Low position operating panel structure

Abstract

The utility model discloses a low -level operation panel structure relates to electrical control device technical field, it includes: panel bottom frame, operation panel, its both ends are equipped with with panel bottom frame parallel distribution's vertical surface, and the middle part of operation panel is equipped with intermediate part, and the intermediate part is protruding distribution relative to vertical surface, and the both sides of intermediate part are connected with vertical surface through curved surface, and the intermediate part is equipped with opening and at least one mounting hole, and the opening is equipped with display board, and the mounting hole is equipped with adjusting knob, bottom plate, its be located in the bottom of panel bottom frame and operation panel. The device can overcome the deficiency of the existing low -level operation panel in man -machine engineering, space occupation, operation convenience and safety, and is a kind of low -level operation panel structure with novel structure design, excellent ergonomics, strong space adaptability, convenient operation and safety.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model relates to the field of electrical control device technology, and more specifically, to a low-position operation panel structure. Background Technology

[0002] Low-position control panels refer to electrical control devices that are installed at a lower height or in specific low-ceilinged spaces. Their functions are the same as standard control panels, but their design needs to be more adapted to the operational requirements of low-ceilinged environments. In practical applications, especially in the home appliance sector such as built-in dishwashers, built-in sterilizers, and washing machines, low-position control panels are very common. However, the main ergonomic challenges of low-position operation (typically less than 60cm from the ground) are: firstly, increased muscle load on the operator; and secondly, significantly increased pressure on the lumbar spine.

[0003] To alleviate the above problems, the existing technologies mainly offer the following types of solutions:

[0004] 1. Top-mounted forward-tilting panel: The front edge of the top of the equipment is tilted at 15°-30°, allowing the operator to stand and operate with a natural line of sight (the downward angle of 20°-40° conforms to ANSI / HFES standards). However, the disadvantage of this solution is that since the panel is integrated on the top of the equipment, there should be no other objects protruding above the panel from the vertical plane of the side panel, otherwise it may affect the normal use of the panel. It also requires a large amount of top space.

[0005] 2. Top recessed panel: Installed on the upper edge of the equipment door (visible when the door is open) or the inner door panel. The panel is completely hidden when the door is closed. However, its disadvantage is that the operation is cumbersome. It requires the process of opening the door → operating → closing the door, which reduces the convenience of operation. At the same time, the opening operation requires a space of more than 50cm in front, and the solution cannot be used for equipment without a door panel.

[0006] 3. Front Vertical Panel: Installed on the vertical plane of the front of the device, it saves vertical space and is currently widely used in household built-in dishwashers and built-in steam ovens. However, its disadvantages are that adults need to bend over to operate it, which does not meet ergonomic requirements, and the vertical panel increases reflections, which is not conducive to the setting of physical knobs and buttons.

[0007] 4. Integrated Solution: This solution combines the top-mounted forward-tilting and front-mounted vertical solutions, using the door panel thickness to embed the forward-tilting panel. While this solution takes into account ergonomics and space utilization to some extent, it encroaches on the door panel thickness. It is not very friendly to equipment with high requirements for heat preservation and insulation, and there is still room for improvement in space optimization for equipment with limited internal space.

[0008] In summary, how to overcome the shortcomings of existing low-position operation panels in terms of ergonomics, space occupation, ease of operation, and safety, and provide a low-position operation panel structure with novel structural design, excellent ergonomic performance, strong spatial adaptability, convenient operation, and safety is a problem that urgently needs to be solved by those skilled in the art. Utility Model Content

[0009] In view of this, the purpose of this utility model is to provide a low-position operation panel structure that can overcome the shortcomings of existing low-position operation panels in terms of ergonomics, space occupation, ease of operation and safety. It is a low-position operation panel structure with novel structural design, excellent ergonomic performance, strong space adaptability, convenient operation and safety.

[0010] To achieve the above objectives, this utility model provides the following technical solution:

[0011] A low-position operation panel structure, characterized in that it comprises:

[0012] Panel bottom frame;

[0013] The operation panel has vertical surfaces at both ends that are parallel to the bottom frame of the panel. The operation panel has a middle part in the middle, which protrudes from the vertical surfaces. Both sides of the middle part are connected to the vertical surfaces through curved surfaces. The middle part has an opening and at least one mounting hole. A display panel is provided at the opening, and an adjustment knob is provided at the mounting hole.

[0014] A base plate is located at the bottom of the panel bottom frame and the operation panel.

[0015] In one embodiment, the display panel is fixed at the opening by a fixing frame, and the display panel is located in the cavity of the operation panel.

[0016] In one embodiment, the display panel and the opening are sealed together, and tempered glass is attached to the side of the display panel away from the operation panel.

[0017] In one embodiment, the display panel is centrally located on the middle section, and each of the adjustment knobs is symmetrically distributed with respect to the display panel.

[0018] In one embodiment, the top of the middle portion and the top of the vertical surface are aligned on a straight line, and the bottom of the middle portion and the bottom of the vertical surface are aligned on a straight line.

[0019] In one embodiment, an angle is provided between the middle portion and the vertical plane, the angle being 15°-30°.

[0020] In one embodiment, the vertical surface is an arc-shaped transition surface.

[0021] In one embodiment, the top of the operation panel is connected to the bottom frame of the panel, and the bottom of the operation panel protrudes 50mm-100mm from the bottom frame of the panel.

[0022] In one embodiment, the base plate protrudes beyond the most protruding point of the operation panel, and the bottom of the base plate has a concave structure.

[0023] In one embodiment, the operation panel is sealed to the bottom frame of the panel, and both the operation panel and the bottom frame of the panel are sealed to the base plate.

[0024] When using the low-position operation panel structure provided by this utility model, the middle part protrudes from the vertical surface, and both sides of the middle part are connected to the vertical surface through curved surfaces. That is, the operation panel is tilted upward relative to the bottom frame of the panel, so that the operation panel conforms to the operator's natural line of sight and ergonomics. Moreover, it is equivalent to moving the operation panel outward, so that the operation panel protrudes from the front plane of the equipment, thereby solving the problem that the operator cannot see the operation panel when close to the ultrasonic cleaner and that it encroaches on part of the internal space of the equipment.

[0025] This device is more ergonomic than vertical control panels, reducing blind spots and minimizing misreading and misoperation rates caused by glare on the interface. Furthermore, compared to top-mounted, forward-tilting control panels, this device reduces overhead space requirements, making it more suitable for highly centralized environments such as kitchens and bathrooms. Additionally, unlike devices that embed forward-tilting panels using door panel thickness, this device does not encroach on door panel thickness, making it more user-friendly and suitable for devices with high insulation and heat resistance requirements. For devices with limited internal space, moving the control panel outwards also reduces overall space requirements. In short, compared to vertical control panels, top-mounted, forward-tilting control panels, and forward-tilting panels embedded in door panels, this device facilitates the arrangement and use of physical components, thereby improving applicability, ease of use, and operational accuracy.

[0026] In summary, the low-position operation panel structure provided by this utility model can overcome the shortcomings of existing low-position operation panels in terms of ergonomics, space occupation, ease of operation and safety. It is a low-position operation panel structure with novel structural design, excellent ergonomic performance, strong space adaptability, convenient operation and safety. Attached Figure Description

[0027] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this utility model or the prior art, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only embodiments of this utility model. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on the provided drawings without creative effort.

[0028] Figure 1 An exploded view of the low-position operation panel structure provided by this utility model;

[0029] Figure 2 This is the main view of the operation panel.

[0030] Figures 1-2 middle:

[0031] 1 is the bottom frame of the panel, 2 is the operation panel, 21 is the middle part, 22 is the curved surface, 23 is the vertical surface, 24 is the opening, 25 is the mounting hole, 3 is the base plate, 4 is the display panel, 5 is the tempered glass, 6 is the adjustment knob, and 7 is the fixing frame. Detailed Implementation

[0032] The technical solutions of the present utility model will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings of the embodiments. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of the present utility model, and not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present utility model, all other embodiments obtained by those of ordinary skill in the art without creative effort are within the protection scope of the present utility model.

[0033] The core of this utility model is to provide a low-position operation panel structure that can overcome the shortcomings of existing low-position operation panels in terms of ergonomics, space occupation, ease of operation and safety. It is a low-position operation panel structure with novel structural design, excellent ergonomic performance, strong space adaptability, convenient operation and safety.

[0034] Please refer to Figure 1 This specific embodiment provides a low-position operation panel structure, including:

[0035] Panel bottom frame 1;

[0036] The operation panel 2 has vertical surfaces 23 at both ends that are parallel to the bottom frame 1 of the panel. The middle part 21 is provided in the middle of the operation panel 2. The middle part 21 protrudes from the vertical surface 23, and both sides of the middle part 21 are connected to the vertical surface 23 through curved surfaces 22. The middle part 21 has an opening 24 and at least one mounting hole 25. A display panel 4 is provided at the opening 24, and an adjustment knob 6 is provided at the mounting hole 25.

[0037] The base plate 3 is located at the bottom of the panel bottom frame 1 and the operation panel 2.

[0038] It should be noted that the adjustment knob 6 embedded in the control panel 2 can be protruding, parallel, or lower than the center part 21 as needed. This design increases the flexibility and adaptability of the product, allowing for the selection of appropriate knob installation methods based on different user groups (such as the elderly who may prefer protruding knobs for easier touch and force application), operating habits, or product design styles, thereby improving age-friendliness, ease of use, and operational accuracy.

[0039] In practical applications, the shape, structure, size, material, and position of the panel bottom frame 1, operation panel 2, and base plate 3 can be determined according to the actual situation and needs.

[0040] When using the low-position operation panel structure provided by this utility model, the middle part 21 protrudes from the vertical surface 23, and both sides of the middle part 21 are connected to the vertical surface 23 through curved surfaces 22. That is, the operation panel 2 is tilted upward relative to the bottom frame 1, so that the operation panel 2 conforms to the operator's natural line of sight and ergonomics. Moreover, it is equivalent to moving the operation panel 2 outward, so that the operation panel 2 protrudes from the front plane of the equipment, thereby solving the problem that the operator cannot see the operation panel 2 when close to the ultrasonic cleaner and that it occupies part of the internal space of the equipment.

[0041] This device is more ergonomic than a vertical control panel, reducing blind spots and minimizing the risk of misreading and misoperation due to glare on the interface. Furthermore, compared to top-mounted, forward-tilting control panels, this device reduces overhead space requirements, making it more suitable for highly centralized environments such as kitchens and bathrooms. Additionally, unlike devices that embed forward-tilting panels using door panel thickness, this device does not encroach on door panel thickness, making it more user-friendly and suitable for devices with high insulation and heat resistance requirements. For devices with limited internal space, moving the control panel 2 outwards also reduces overall space requirements. In short, compared to vertical control panels, top-mounted, forward-tilting control panels, and forward-tilting panels embedded in door panels, this device facilitates the arrangement and use of physical components, thereby improving applicability, ease of use, and operational accuracy.

[0042] In summary, the low-position operation panel structure provided by this utility model can overcome the shortcomings of existing low-position operation panels in terms of ergonomics, space occupation, ease of operation and safety. It is a low-position operation panel structure with novel structural design, excellent ergonomic performance, strong space adaptability, convenient operation and safety.

[0043] In one embodiment, the display panel 4 is fixed at the opening 24 by a fixing frame 7, and the display panel 4 is located in the cavity of the operation panel 2.

[0044] In one embodiment, the display panel 4 and the opening 24 are sealed together, and tempered glass 5 is attached to the side of the display panel 4 away from the operation panel 2. The tempered glass 5 not only effectively protects the display panel 4 from external damage, but also improves the display clarity of the display panel 4, reduces glare, and enhances the user's visual experience.

[0045] In one embodiment, the display panel 4 is centrally located on the middle part 21, and the various adjustment knobs 6 are symmetrically distributed with respect to the display panel 4.

[0046] It should be noted that the display panel 4 and all the adjustment knobs 6 are distributed parallel to the center 21. This ensures the readability of the displayed information and the convenience of adjustment operations. Users can clearly see the displayed content and accurately operate the knobs without having to adjust their viewing angle. Moreover, the display panel 4 is centered on the center 21 of the operation panel 2, and the adjustment knobs 6 (such as two or four) are placed on the left and right sides of the display panel 4. This layout design conforms to the user's operating habits, placing the display panel 4 in the visual center and distributing the adjustment knobs 6 on both sides of the display panel 4, making it easy for users to operate with both hands or one hand, thus improving the intuitiveness and convenience of operation.

[0047] In one embodiment, such as Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the top of the middle part 21 and the top of the vertical surface 23 are on the same straight line, and the bottom of the middle part 21 and the bottom of the vertical surface 23 are on the same straight line. Moreover, the middle part 21 of the operation panel 2 is connected to the two vertical surfaces 23 through the curved surface 22. This structural design makes the overall shape of the operation panel 2 smooth, which not only ensures the structural strength of the forward-leaning middle part of the operation panel 2, but also avoids stress concentration through the transition of the curved surface 22, and also enhances the aesthetics of the operation panel 2.

[0048] In one embodiment, such as Figure 1 An angle is provided between the middle part 21 and the vertical surface 23, the angle including 15°-30°.

[0049] It should be noted that the vertical surfaces 23 at both ends of the control panel 2 are parallel to the bottom frame 1, and the middle part 21 of the control panel 2 is twisted upwards by 15-30° relative to the vertical surfaces 23 (i.e., there is an angle between the middle part 21 and the vertical surfaces 23). This design makes the middle part 21 of the control panel 2 form a forward-leaning operating plane, which conforms to the natural line of sight of the operator when standing (20°-40° downward angle), effectively reducing the pressure on the operator's cervical and lumbar spine, reducing muscle load, and improving ergonomic performance. Preferably, the upward twisting angle of the middle part 21 of the control panel 2 is 20°-25° to further optimize the ergonomic effect and achieve a better balance between visual comfort and ease of operation.

[0050] In one embodiment, the vertical surface 23 is an arc-shaped transition surface.

[0051] It should be noted that the control panel 2 has vertical surfaces 23 at both ends, which are curved transition surfaces. This curved design allows personnel to slide along the outward direction upon contact, thereby reducing the risk of collision. Since the control panel 2 protrudes outward from the equipment body, there is a possibility of accidental collision when the operator walks or moves objects. The curved transition surface replaces the traditional right angle or sharp angle design. When an operator or object accidentally comes into contact with either end of the control panel 2, it guides them to slide away along the curved transition surface instead of directly impacting the equipment, thus effectively reducing the risk of personal injury and equipment damage caused by collisions.

[0052] It should also be noted that the vertical surface 23 can be made of glass, metal, or soft materials (such as silicone or rubber) to meet the aesthetic, durability, and safety requirements of different application scenarios. For example, in home environments, especially those with children, soft materials can be prioritized to further cushion impacts; in environments with extremely high durability requirements, such as commercial kitchens, metal or tempered glass can be used. To further enhance safety, reflective markings (such as reflective strips or fluorescent coatings) can be added to the edges of the curved transition surface to enhance visual cues in low-light environments and prevent accidental collisions.

[0053] In one embodiment, the top of the operation panel 2 is connected to the bottom frame 1 of the panel, and the bottom of the operation panel 2 protrudes 50mm-100mm from the bottom frame 1 of the panel, that is, the middle part 21 is moved outward.

[0054] It should be noted that by moving the middle portion 21 outward, this application ensures that the middle portion 21 (i.e., the operating area) of the control panel 2 is fully exposed to the operator's field of vision, guaranteeing normal operation even when other objects are present on top of or around the equipment. Simultaneously, the outward design avoids encroaching on valuable storage or functional space inside the equipment, reducing the overall space requirements for equipment with limited internal space. Preferably, the outermost edge of the bottom of the control panel 2 is moved outward by 50-100mm relative to the front plane of the equipment to ensure that the control panel 2 is fully exposed to the operator's field of vision. The specific distance can be fine-tuned according to the equipment type and installation environment.

[0055] In one embodiment, the base plate 3 protrudes from the most prominent point of the operation panel 2, and the bottom of the base plate 3 has a concave structure. That is, the base plate 3 protrudes from the most prominent point of the operation panel 2 on the other side of the panel bottom frame 1, and the bottom of the base plate 3 has a concave shape, which can serve as a handle for the equipment door when necessary. This design cleverly utilizes the structure of the base plate 3, giving it the function of a handle, simplifying the overall design of the equipment, and saving the space required for a separate handle. In addition, when the equipment door is opened downwards, the top of the protruding operation panel 2 can also act as a support and buffer pad, protecting the door from directly impacting the ground or other objects when it is opened to its limit, thereby protecting the safety of the door.

[0056] In one embodiment, the operation panel 2 is sealed to the panel bottom frame 1, and both the operation panel 2 and the panel bottom frame 1 are sealed to the base plate 3.

[0057] It should be noted that the operation panel 2 and the panel base frame 1 are sealed together using adhesive and screws to ensure a stable connection and good sealing, preventing dust, moisture, etc., from entering the panel and affecting the electronic components. Furthermore, a base plate 3 is provided at the bottom of the operation panel 2 and the panel base frame 1, and the base plate 3 is sealed to the bottom of the operation panel 2 and the panel base frame 1 using screws and adhesive. The base plate 3 not only seals and protects the internal components of the operation panel 2 and the panel base frame 1, but also enhances the structural rigidity of the entire device.

[0058] It should be noted that, to ensure the structural stability of the control panel 2 after its relocation, reinforcing ribs may be provided at the connection between the control panel 2 and the equipment body. These reinforcing ribs can effectively distribute the external forces borne by the control panel 2, preventing deformation or loosening of the connection after long-term use, and improving the durability and reliability of the entire structure.

[0059] By twisting the middle part 21 of the control panel 2 upwards by 15°-30°, it conforms to the operator's natural line of sight. Compared with a vertical control panel, this significantly reduces the operator's bending degree and lumbar spine pressure, reduces muscle load, and improves operating comfort and health. At the same time, the display panel 4 and the adjustment knob 6 are set parallel to the middle part 21, which reduces glare and optimizes visual effects and ease of operation.

[0060] Furthermore, by relocating the middle section 21 outward, compared to a top-mounted, forward-tilting control panel, this device reduces the space requirements above the equipment, making it more suitable for highly centralized, space-constrained environments such as kitchens and bathrooms, and less susceptible to obstruction from overhead objects. Compared to forward-tilting panels that utilize the door panel thickness for embedding, this device does not encroach on the door panel thickness, making it more user-friendly and suitable for equipment with high insulation and heat preservation requirements (such as built-in steam ovens and disinfection cabinets). At the same time, for equipment with limited internal space, relocating the control panel 2 outward can also reduce the overall space requirements of the equipment.

[0061] Furthermore, compared to door panel embedded panels, this device can be operated without opening the door, simplifying the operation process. The forward-leaning control panel 2 and the rationally arranged display panel 4 and adjustment knobs 6, compared to a vertical panel, facilitate the placement and use of physical buttons / adjustment knobs 6, thereby improving age-friendliness, ease of operation, and accuracy. Moreover, the concave shape of the base plate 3 allows for the integration of a door handle function, simplifying the device structure. The curved transition surfaces at both ends of the control panel 2 effectively reduce the risk of bumps and collisions, improving safety. Additionally, the top of the control panel 2 can act as a support and buffer when the door is opened downwards, protecting the door panel.

[0062] Furthermore, the sealed connections between the operation panel 2 and the panel base frame 1, the sealed connection between the opening 24 and the display panel 4, the sealed connection between the panel base frame 1 and the base plate 3, and the sealed connection between the operation panel 2 and the base plate 3 ensure the structural stability and dustproof and waterproof performance. The adjustment knob 6 can be selected to protrude from, be parallel to, or be lower than the surface of the operation panel 2 as needed, and the arc transition surface can be made of various materials to make this device suitable for different application scenarios.

[0063] In addition, it should be noted that the orientation or positional relationship indicated by "top and bottom", "inner and outer", etc. in this application is based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. It is only for the purpose of simplifying the description and making it easier to understand, and does not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, it should not be construed as a limitation of this utility model.

[0064] The various embodiments in this specification are described in a progressive manner, with each embodiment focusing on its differences from other embodiments. Similar or identical parts between embodiments can be referred to interchangeably. Any combination of all embodiments provided by this utility model is within the protection scope of this utility model and will not be elaborated upon here.

[0065] The low-position operation panel structure provided by this utility model has been described in detail above. Specific examples have been used to illustrate the principle and implementation of this utility model. The descriptions of the embodiments above are only for the purpose of helping to understand the method and core idea of ​​this utility model. It should be noted that for those skilled in the art, several improvements and modifications can be made to this utility model without departing from the principle of this utility model, and these improvements and modifications also fall within the protection scope of the claims of this utility model.

Claims

1. A low-position operation panel structure, characterized in that, include: Panel bottom frame (1); The operation panel (2) has vertical surfaces (23) at both ends that are parallel to the bottom frame (1) of the panel. The operation panel (2) has a middle part (21) in the middle. The middle part (21) protrudes from the vertical surface (23) and both sides of the middle part (21) are connected to the vertical surface (23) through curved surfaces (22). The middle part (21) has an opening (24) and at least one mounting hole (25). The opening (24) has a display panel (4) and the mounting hole (25) has an adjustment knob (6). The base plate (3) is located at the bottom of the panel bottom frame (1) and the operation panel (2).

2. The low-position operation panel structure according to claim 1, characterized in that, The display panel (4) is fixed at the opening (24) by a fixing frame (7), and the display panel (4) is located in the cavity of the operation panel (2).

3. The low-position operation panel structure according to claim 2, characterized in that, The display panel (4) and the opening (24) are sealed together, and tempered glass (5) is attached to the side of the display panel (4) away from the operation panel (2).

4. The low-position operation panel structure according to claim 2, characterized in that, The display panel (4) is centrally located on the middle part (21), and each of the adjustment knobs (6) is symmetrically distributed with respect to the display panel (4).

5. The low-position operation panel structure according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, The top of the middle part (21) and the top of the vertical surface (23) are on the same straight line, and the bottom of the middle part (21) and the bottom of the vertical surface (23) are on the same straight line.

6. The low-position operation panel structure according to claim 5, characterized in that, An angle is provided between the middle part (21) and the vertical plane (23), the angle being 15°-30°.

7. The low-position operation panel structure according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, The vertical surface (23) is an arc-shaped transition surface.

8. The low-position operation panel structure according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, The top of the operation panel (2) is connected to the bottom frame of the panel (1), and the bottom of the operation panel (2) protrudes 50mm-100mm from the bottom frame of the panel (1).

9. The low-position operation panel structure according to claim 8, characterized in that, The base plate (3) protrudes from the most protruding point of the operation panel (2), and the bottom of the base plate (3) has a concave structure.

10. The low-position operation panel structure according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, The operation panel (2) is sealed to the bottom frame of the panel (1), and both the operation panel (2) and the bottom frame of the panel (1) are sealed to the base plate (3).

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