Circuit for controlling the switch

Abstract

A control circuit includes a first branch circuit, a second branch circuit, and a third branch circuit. The first branch circuit has a first branch circuit head end and a first branch circuit tail end, and includes a control circuit switch and an exciter electrically connected in series. The second branch circuit has a second branch circuit head end and a second branch circuit tail end, and includes a main circuit switch. The third branch circuit is connected in series across the control circuit switch and includes a holding circuit switch. The first branch circuit head end and the second branch circuit head end are electrically connected to a common terminal, and the main circuit switch and the holding circuit switch are configured to close or open in response to excitation of the exciter when the control circuit switch is closed. The function of the control circuit of the present application is not affected even if the door sensor switch is accidentally opened.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] This application relates to control circuits, and more particularly to circuits for controlling switches in electrical appliances. [Background technology]

[0002] Doors of electrical appliances such as washing machines are generally equipped with door locks. When a pushing force is applied to the door to close it, the door hook is inserted into the door lock, engaging with the door lock and locking the door. When a pulling force is applied to the door to open it, the door hook is removed from the door lock and disengaged from the door lock. When the door is closed, the door sensor switch is closed, and the door lock can be locked or unlocked. When the door is open, the door sensor switch is disconnected, and the door lock cannot be locked or unlocked. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0003] When the appliance door is locked (i.e., activated), if an external force pulls on the door hook (e.g., an attempt to open the door), or under abnormal circumstances such as the pressure difference between the inside and outside of the drum or the pressure exerted on the washer door by the clothes inside the washer, the door hook may move slightly outward (i.e., tend to open the door). This may cause the door sensor switch to trip even though the door is locked. If the tension on the door hook cannot be relieved, the door sensor switch will remain tripped and will not be able to energize the electromagnet. Therefore, the door lock will not unlock, making it impossible to open the appliance door.

[0004] A switch control circuit is required that maintains normal unlocking function even if the door sensor switch is accidentally disconnected. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] According to a first aspect of the present application, there is provided a circuit for controlling a switch, the circuit comprising a first branch circuit, a second branch circuit, and a third branch circuit. The first branch circuit has a first branch circuit head end and a first branch circuit tail end, and includes a control circuit switch and an exciter electrically connected in series. The second branch circuit has a second branch circuit head end and a second branch circuit tail end, and includes a main circuit switch. The third branch circuit is connected in series across the control circuit switch and includes a holding circuit switch. The first branch circuit head end and the second branch circuit head end are electrically connected to a common terminal, and the main circuit switch and the holding circuit switch are configured to close or open in response to excitation of the exciter when the control circuit switch is closed.

[0006] According to a first aspect of the present application, the excitation device is characterized in that it can be excited when at least one of the control circuit switch and the holding circuit switch is closed.

[0007] According to a first aspect of the present application, the control circuit switch is characterized in that it is configured to be closed or opened in response to the actuation of a mechanical force.

[0008] According to a first aspect of the present application, the circuit is used to control an electrical appliance having an appliance door, and the control circuit switch is configured to close in response to closure of the appliance door.

[0009] According to a first aspect of the present application, the circuit further comprises a transmission mechanism, and excitation of the excitation device can drive movement of the transmission mechanism, and the movement of the transmission mechanism can close or open the main circuit switch and the holding circuit switch.

[0010] According to a first aspect of the present application, the transmission mechanism is a linear drive component having a mechanical commutator, and the movement of the transmission mechanism is characterized in that it is possible to close or disconnect a main circuit switch and a holding circuit switch.

[0011] According to a first aspect of the present application, the exciter receives a series of pulse signals transmitted from the main control board 1326 via the first branch circuit tail end 1324, and each pulse signal in the series of pulse signals is capable of exciting the exciter when the control circuit switch or the holding circuit switch is closed. During the valid period of the series of pulse signals, the transmission mechanism moves in a first direction in response to an earlier pulse signal in the series, closing the main circuit switch and the holding circuit switch. When the earlier pulse signal disappears, the operating states of the main circuit switch and the holding circuit switch remain unchanged. During the valid period of the series of pulse signals, the transmission mechanism moves in a second direction in response to a later pulse signal in the series, disconnecting the main circuit switch and the holding circuit switch. When the later pulse signal disappears, the operating states of the main circuit switch and the holding circuit switch remain unchanged.

[0012] According to a first aspect of the present application, the common terminal is electrically connected to ground, the first branch circuit tail end is electrically connected to a main control board using a low voltage, and the second branch circuit tail end is electrically connected to a motor using a high voltage, and the motor is used to drive an electrical device.

[0013] According to a first aspect of the present application, the excitation device is a solenoid electromagnet.

[0014] According to a second aspect of the present application, there is provided a washing machine comprising a circuit according to the first aspect of the present application.

[0015] Additional aspects and advantages of the present application will be set forth in part in the description that follows, and in part will be obvious from the description, or may be learned by practice of the present application. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0016] [Figure 1A] 1 is a three-dimensional view of a door lock 100 of the present invention as seen from above. [Figure 1B]1B is an exploded view of the door lock 100 shown in FIG. 1A, seen from above. [Figure 1C] 1B is a bottom three-dimensional view of the door lock 100 shown in FIG. 1A. [Figure 1D] 1D is a three-dimensional view of the door lock 100 shown in FIG. 1C, with the switch box cover 142 omitted. [Figure 1E] FIG. 1D is a three-dimensional view of the door lock 100, with the switch box 124 omitted. [Figure 2A] FIG. 1D is a three-dimensional view of the switch box 124 shown in FIGS. 1C and 1D, viewed from another perspective. [Figure 2B] FIG. 1D is a three-dimensional view of the lead 132 shown in FIG. [Figure 3A] 1E is a three-dimensional view of the door sensor mechanism 162 shown in FIG. 1E when the door is in an open position. [Figure 3B] FIG. 1C is a three-dimensional view of the door sensor mechanism 162 shown in FIG. 1E when the door is in a closed state. [Figure 4A] FIG. 3C is a three-dimensional view of the door hook 102 shown in FIGS. 3A and 3B. [Figure 4B] FIG. 3C is a three-dimensional view of the cam 172 shown in FIGS. 3A and 3B. [Figure 5A] FIG. 3C is a three-dimensional view of the primary slider 174 shown in FIGS. 3A and 3B. [Figure 5B] FIG. 5B is a three-dimensional view of the primary slider 174 shown in FIG. 5A from another perspective. [Figure 6A] FIG. 3C is a three-dimensional view of the secondary slider 176 shown in FIGS. 3A and 3B. [Figure 6B] FIG. 6B is a three-dimensional view of the secondary slider 176 shown in FIG. 6A from another perspective. [Figure 7] FIG. 3C is a three-dimensional view of the pendulum rod 178 shown in FIGS. 3A and 3B. [Figure 8] FIG. 3C is a three-dimensional view of the control switch actuation pin 180 shown in FIGS. 3A and 3B. [Figure 9] FIG. 1E is a three-dimensional view of a transmission mechanism 152 inside the switch box 124 shown in FIG. 1D. [Figure 10]1D is a three-dimensional view of the main switch actuation pin 156 inside the switch box 124 shown in FIG. [Figure 11A] 1 is a schematic diagram of a door lock 100 of the present application when the door is in an open position. [Figure 11B] 1 is a schematic diagram of a door lock 100 of the present application when the door is in an unlocked state. [Figure 11C] 1 is a schematic diagram of a door lock 100 of the present application when the door is in a locked state (normal operating state). [Figure 11D] 1 is a schematic diagram of the door lock 100 of the present application when the door is in a locked state (the door is in an abnormal state). [Figure 12] 1 is a schematic diagram of a washing machine 1200 having the door lock 100 of the present application. [Figure 13A] 1 is a schematic diagram of a control circuit 1300 of the door lock 100 of the present application. [Figure 13B] 13A is a schematic diagram of the control circuit 1300 of FIG. 13A corresponding to the door lock 100 of FIG. 11A when the door is in an open position. [Figure 13C] 13B is a schematic diagram of the control circuit 1300 of FIG. 13A corresponding to the door lock 100 of FIG. 11B when the door is in a closed position. [Figure 13D] 13A, which corresponds to the door lock 100 of FIG. 11C when the door is in the locked state (normal operating condition). [Figure 13E] 13B is a schematic diagram of the control circuit 1300 of FIG. 13A corresponding to the door lock 100 of FIG. 11D when the door is in a locked state (door abnormal state). [Figure 14] FIG. 13B is a block diagram of a main control board 1326 shown in FIGS. 13B to 13E. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0017] Various specific embodiments of the present application are described below with reference to the accompanying drawings, which form a part hereof and are not intended to be limiting. While orientational terms such as "upper," "lower," "left," and "right" are used herein to describe the orientation of various exemplary structural components and elements of the present application, it should be understood that these terms are used herein for convenience of description only and are determined based on the exemplary orientations shown in the accompanying drawings. Because the examples herein may be oriented in different ways, these orientational terms are for illustrative purposes only and should not be considered limiting.

[0018] As used herein, terms such as "first," "second," and "third" are used only to distinguish between different objects and do not imply a particular sequential relationship between these objects. The term "comprise" and its derivatives are intended to be inclusive and not limiting. Unless otherwise specified and defined, the terms "mounted," "connected," and "attached" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they may refer to mechanical or electrical connections and internal connections between two elements, which may be direct attachments or indirect attachments via intermediaries. Those skilled in the art will be able to understand the specific meanings of the above terms depending on the particular context. As used herein, the same or similar reference numerals refer to the same components whenever possible.

[0019] 1A to 1E are three-dimensional views of the door lock 100 of the present application from multiple perspectives (top view, exploded view, and bottom view), showing the door lock box 120, the switch box 124, the internal components of the door lock box 120 and the switch box 124, and the positional and fitting relationships between these components. Specific descriptions of these drawings are as follows.

[0020] 1A is a three-dimensional view of the door lock 100 of the present application as viewed from above, showing the door hook 102 inserted into the door lock box 120. FIG. 1B is an exploded view of the door lock 100 shown in FIG. 1A as viewed from above, showing the door lock box upper cover 122 and door lock box lower cover 126 of the door lock box 120, as well as the switch box 124 housed within the door lock box 120.

[0021] 1A and 1B, the door lock 100 includes a door hook 102, a door lock box 120, and a switch box 124 housed within the door lock box. Here, a door lock box upper cover 122 is provided on the top of the door lock box 120, and a door lock box lower cover 126 is provided on the bottom of the door lock box 120. The door lock box upper cover 122 and the door lock box lower cover 126 are fastened together by a plurality of latches 110, 111, 112, 113, and 114 disposed on the door lock box upper cover 122 and the door lock box lower cover 126, forming an internal cavity capable of housing the switch box 124. A door lock hole 130 for receiving the door hook 102 is provided on the outside of the door lock box upper cover 122. The door hook 102 is positioned above the door lock box 120 and can be inserted into the door lock hole 130 to activate a door sensor mechanism 162 (detailed in Figures 1E, 3A, and 3B) located inside the door lock box 120.

[0022] FIG. 1C is a bottom three-dimensional view of the door lock 100 shown in FIG. 1A, with the door lock box lower cover 126 omitted in FIG. 1C to show more components inside the door lock box 120. FIG. 1D is a three-dimensional view of the door lock 100 shown in FIG. 1C, with the switch box cover 142 omitted to show more components inside the switch box 124. FIG. 1E is a three-dimensional view of the door lock 100 shown in FIG. 1D, with the switch box 124 omitted to show more components located between the switch box 124 and the door lock box 120.

[0023] As shown in Figures 1C-1E, switch box 124, door sensor mechanism 162 (the complete door sensor mechanism 162 is shown in Figure 1E; door sensor mechanism 162 is partially hidden by switch box 124 in Figures 1C and 1D), primary slider bias spring 164, secondary slider bias spring 166, and cam torsion spring 168 are provided in the interior cavity of door lock box 120.

[0024] The switch box 124 has a switch box cover 142 and a switch box base 144 for accommodating the components described below. The switch box base 144 houses an exciter 154, a transmission device 152, and a mechanical commutator that is primarily disposed within the transmission device 152 and engages with the exciter 154. Also disposed within the switch box base 144 are a lead 132 made of a conductive material, a main switch actuation pin 156 (i.e., a lock pin), a contact guide rod 188, a main switch contact 181, and switch box connectors 182, 184, and 186. The switch box connector 182 is electrically connected to the main switch contact 181, the switch box connector 184 is a ground terminal that is electrically connected to a central portion 208 (see FIG. 2B ) of the lead 132, and the switch box connector 186 and the contact guide rod 188 are electrically connected to the exciter 154. The exciter 154 drives the linear x-direction movement of the mechanical commutator, which is converted via the transmission 152 into linear z-direction movement of the main switch actuation pin 156, thereby making and breaking the electrical connection between the reed 132 and the main switch contact 181. The linear x-direction movement of the transmission 152 can also make and break the first branch circuit between the reed 132 and the switch box connector 186.

[0025] Door sensor mechanism 162 is arranged to move in response to the opening and closing of an electrical appliance door, and is comprised of a series of components including cam 172, slider mechanism, pendulum rod 178, and control switch actuation pin 180. In the example shown herein, the slider mechanism comprises primary slider 174 and secondary slider 176. Cam 172 is configured to rotate about axis 198 in the y direction, pendulum rod 178 is configured to rotate about pendulum rod axis 196 in the z direction, primary slider 174 is configured for linear movement in the x direction, secondary slider 176 is configured for linear movement in the y direction, and control switch actuation pin 180 is configured for linear movement in the z direction. Insertion or withdrawal of the door hook 132 from the door lock hole 130 in the x-direction can drive rotation of the cam 172 about axis 198, which can drive linear motion of the primary slider 174 in the x-direction, which can drive linear motion of the secondary slider 176 in the y-direction, which can drive rotation of the pendulum rod 178 about the pendulum rod axis 196, which can drive up and down movement of the control switch actuation pin 180 in the z-direction, and which can connect and disconnect the second branch circuit between the lead 132 and the switch box connector 186. The connection and disconnection of the first branch circuit or the second branch circuit between the lead 132 and the switch box connector 186 is achieved by connecting and disconnecting different conductive contacts on the lead 132 to and from the contact guide rod 188, where the x-direction, y-direction, and z-direction are perpendicular to each other. However, at least to those skilled in the art, due to unavoidable manufacturing tolerances or errors in the actual manufacturing process, the x-direction, y-direction, and z-direction may be substantially perpendicular to each other within an error range of less than 5 degrees.

[0026] The primary slider bias spring 164, the secondary slider bias spring 166, and the cam torsion spring 168 are auxiliary motion components of the door sensor mechanism 162. The primary slider bias spring 164 is disposed between the first inner wall 146 of the door lock box 120 and the primary slider 174, maintains contact with the first inner wall 146 and the primary slider 174, and provides a biasing force to move the primary slider 174 toward a position corresponding to door closure (a direction away from the first inner wall 146 in the x direction). The secondary slider bias spring 166 is disposed between the second inner wall 148 of the door lock box 120 and the secondary slider 176, maintains contact with the second inner wall 148 and the secondary slider 176, and provides a biasing force to move the secondary slider 176 toward a position corresponding to door closure (a direction away from the second inner wall 148 in the y direction). One end of the cam torsion spring 168 may be rotatably fixed to the cam 172, and the other end of the cam torsion spring 168 abuts against an inner wall (not shown) of the door lock box lower cover 126 to provide a biasing force for moving the cam 172 toward a position corresponding to door opening. As a result of the interaction of the cam torsion spring 168 with the slider biasing spring 164 and the secondary slider biasing spring 166, the primary slider 174 and the secondary slider 176 reciprocate accordingly during the rotational movement of the cam 172. Specifically, cam torsion spring 168 can provide a biasing force to move primary slider 174 toward first inner wall 146 and secondary slider 176 toward second inner wall 148, while primary slider biasing spring 164 and secondary slider biasing spring 166 provide a biasing force to move primary slider 174 away from first inner wall 146 and a biasing force to move secondary slider 176 away from second inner wall 148, respectively. In other examples, cam torsion spring 168 may be a return spring or other elastic component.

[0027] It should be noted that in this example, the biasing force generated by cam torsion spring 168, taking into account the gravity of the door, is equal to or greater than the sum of the biasing forces generated by primary slider biasing spring 164 and secondary slider biasing spring 166. However, in other examples, the biasing forces generated by cam torsion spring 168, primary slider biasing spring 164, and secondary slider biasing spring 166 may be adjusted accordingly so that the door tends to move toward the open or closed position.

[0028] 2A is a three-dimensional view of the switch box 124 shown in FIGS. 1C and 1D from another perspective, and FIG. 2B shows a three-dimensional view of the lead 132 shown in FIG. 1D to show in more detail the connection and disconnection between the lead 132 and the contact guide rod 188.

[0029] As shown in FIG. 2A , a square hole 293 and an elongated hole 295 are arranged side by side in the y direction on the bottom 145 of the switch box 124. The size of the square hole 293 matches the size of the cross-sectional area in the z direction of the main switch actuation pin 156 (i.e., lock pin) inside the switch box 124, so that the main switch actuation pin 156 protrudes from the square hole 293 in the z direction but cannot move in the x or y directions within the square hole 293. When the main switch actuation pin 156 passes through the square hole 293 in the z direction and protrudes from the bottom 145 of the switch box 124, the main switch actuation pin 156 can be inserted into a locking structure 612 (see FIG. 6A ) on the secondary slider 176, thereby locking the secondary slider 176 and preventing it from moving. The width of the slot 295 matches the dimensions of the drive guide rod 902 of the transmission device 152 in the switch box 124 (see FIG. 9 ), and the slot 295 extends a certain length in the x direction, so that the drive guide rod 902 can move through the slot 295 in the x direction but cannot move in the y direction. Here, the drive guide rod 902 is connected to or is part of the transmission device 152 in the switch box 124 (see FIG. 9 ), and the drive guide rod 902 moves with the linear movement of the transmission device 152 in the x direction. The movement of the transmission device 152 in the x direction can drive the linear movement of the main switch actuation pin 156 in the z direction. Therefore, the main switch actuation pin (i.e., lock pin) 156 moves up and down in the z direction as the drive guide rod 902 moves accordingly in the x direction within the slot 295.

[0030] A control switch actuation pin hole 291 is further provided in the bottom 145 of the switch box 124, and the size of the control switch actuation pin hole 291 matches the size of the cross-sectional area in the z-direction of the control switch actuation pin 180 in the door lock box 120. This allows the control switch actuation pin 180 to extend within the control switch actuation pin hole 291 in the z-direction, but it cannot move within the control switch actuation pin hole 291 in the x- or y-directions. As described above, up and down movement of the control switch actuation pin 180 in the z-direction can connect and disconnect the second branch circuit between the lead 132 and the switch box connector 186.

[0031] 2B, the lead 132 has a bifurcated structure and includes a first lead arm 252, a second lead arm 254, and a third lead arm 256. Here, the first lead arm 252 and the second lead arm 254 are located on the same side of the lead 132, the third lead arm 256 is located on the other side of the lead 132 opposite the first lead arm 252 and the second lead arm 254, and the second lead arm 254 and the third lead arm 256 are connected to each other at the center portion 208 of the lead 132 and remain electrically connected. The control switch reed contact 202 and the control switch actuating portion 212 are disposed at the tip of the first reed arm 252, the hold switch reed contact 204 is disposed at the tip of the second reed arm 254, the hold switch actuating portion 214 is disposed at the center of the second reed arm 254, and this hold switch actuating portion 214 has a downwardly curved convex structure 215, the main switch reed contact 206 and the main switch actuating portion 216 are disposed at the tip of the third reed arm 256, and ground terminal contacts 222, 224, and 226 for connecting the switch box connector 184 (ground terminal) are disposed at the center 208 of the reed 132. The center 208 of the reed 132 is fixed to the switch box 124, so that the center 208 of the reed 132 serves as a fulcrum for the up and down movement of the control switch reed contact 202, the hold switch reed contact 204, and the main switch reed contact 206.

[0032] The main switch actuation portion 216 rises or falls in response to the up and down movement of the main switch actuation pin 156 in the z direction, thereby connecting or disconnecting the electrical connection between the main switch reed contact 206 and the main switch contact 181 (see FIG. 1D ). The control switch actuation portion 212 rises or falls in response to the up and down movement of the control switch actuation pin 180 in the z direction, thereby connecting or disconnecting the control switch reed contact 202 and the contact guide rod 188 (see FIG. 1D ). The downwardly curved convex structure 215 of the hold switch actuation portion 214 rises or falls in response to the linear movement of the transmission device 152 in the x direction, thereby connecting or disconnecting the hold switch reed contact 204 and the contact guide rod 188 (see FIG. 1D ). When either the control switch reed contact 202 or the hold switch reed contact 204 is connected, the exciter 154 is electrically connected so that a pulse signal can be received from the main control board. When the main switch reed contacts 206 are connected, the appliance's main motor is electrically connected, allowing the appliance to begin operation.

[0033] It should be noted that the mechanical closing and disconnection of leads 132 and other associated components described above creates the circuit connection relationships shown in Figures 13A-13E.

[0034] 3A and 3B are three-dimensional views of the door sensor mechanism 162 shown in FIG. 1E when the door is in an open state and a closed state, respectively, which illustrate how the insertion and withdrawal (up and down movement in the z-direction) of the door hook 102 activates the connection and disconnection between the control switch reed contact 202 and the contact guide rod 188, as well as the movement process of various components of the door sensor mechanism 162 during the door opening and closing process.

[0035] 3A shows a three-dimensional view of the door sensor mechanism 162 when the door is in an open state. As shown in FIG. 3A, during the door opening process, the door moves the door hook 102 downward in the z direction (the door hook 102 is pulled out of the door lock hole 130), and supported by the biasing force of the cam torsion spring 168 (see FIG. 1E), the downward movement of the door hook 102 pulls the cam 172 to rotate counterclockwise in the α direction around the axis 198. Counterclockwise rotation of cam 172 can push primary slider 174, causing it to move in the x-direction toward first inner wall 146 against the biasing force of primary slider bias spring 164 (see FIG. 1E); movement of primary slider 174 toward first inner wall 146 can push secondary slider 176, causing it to move in the y-direction toward second inner wall 148 (see FIG. 1E) against the biasing force of secondary slider bias spring 166 (see FIG. 1E); movement of secondary slider 176 toward second inner wall 148 can cause pendulum rod 178 to swing counterclockwise in the β-direction about pendulum rod axis 196; and the counterclockwise swing of pendulum rod 178 can move control switch actuation pin 180 upward in the z-direction. The upward movement of the control switch actuation pin 180 then lifts the control switch actuation portion 212 of the reed 132 upward, thereby breaking contact between the control switch reed contact 202 and the contact guide rod 188 (see FIG. 1D).

[0036] FIG. 3B shows a three-dimensional view of the door sensor mechanism 162 when the door is in a closed state. As shown in FIG. 3B, during the door closing process, the door moves the door hook 102 upward in the z direction (the door hook 102 is inserted into the door lock hole 130). The upward movement of the door hook 102 pushes the cam 172 to rotate clockwise in the α direction around the axis 198 against the biasing force of the cam torsion spring 168 (see FIG. 1E). This causes the primary slider 174 to move in the x direction away from the first inner wall 146 (see FIG. 1E) under the biasing force of the primary slider bias spring 164 (see FIG. 1E), and also moves in the y direction away from the second inner wall 148 (see FIG. 1E) under the biasing force of the secondary slider bias spring 166 (see FIG. 1E). Movement of the secondary slider 176 away from the second inner wall 148 can cause the pendulum rod 178 to swing clockwise in the β direction about the pendulum rod axis 196, and the clockwise swing of the pendulum rod 178 can cause the control switch actuation pin 180 to drop in the z direction away from the pendulum rod 178, and the dropping of the control switch actuation pin 180 of the reed 132 can correspondingly drop the control switch actuation portion 212, thereby maintaining contact between the control switch reed contact 202 and the contact guide rod 188 (see FIG. 1D ).

[0037] 3A and 3B, the positional layout of the cam 172, primary slider 174, secondary slider 176, pendulum rod 178, and control switch actuation pin 180 in the door sensor mechanism 162 minimizes the space occupied by the door sensor mechanism 162 in the x and y directions, while ensuring that the control switch actuation pin 180 can move in response to movement of the door hook 102 and that the door sensor mechanism 162 can lock (see FIG. 6A, locking structure 612 of the secondary slider 176).

[0038] 3A is referred to as the primary slider movement start position, and the position of secondary slider 176 is referred to as the secondary slider movement start position. Also, the position of primary slider 174 shown in FIG. 3B is referred to as the primary slider movement end position, and the position of secondary slider 176 is referred to as the secondary slider movement end position.

[0039] 4A-8 show three-dimensional views of the door hook 102, cam 172, primary slider 174, secondary slider 176, pendulum rod 178, and control switch actuation pin 180, respectively, to further explain the detailed structure and mating relationships of the various components within the door sensor mechanism 162. A specific description of these drawings is as follows:

[0040] 4A and 4B are three-dimensional views of the door hook 102 and the cam 172 shown in FIGS. 3A and 3B, respectively. 4A and 4B also show the mating relationship between the door hook 102 and the cam 172.

[0041] 4A , the door hook 102 includes a hook body 410 and a door hook base 412. A door hook hole 416 for engaging and activating the door hook 102 is provided on the hook body 410 at an end away from the door hook base 412. Specifically, an upper surface 418 of the door hook hole 416 can provide a force that pulls the door hook 102 downward in the z-direction, and a tip 420 of the hook body 410 can provide a force that pushes the door hook 102 upward in the z-direction. Two door hook mounting holes 414A and 414B are provided on the door hook base 412 for fixing the door hook 102 to corresponding positions on a door.

[0042] 4B, the main body of cam 172 has a crescent-shaped curved structure and includes an arc-shaped open slot 403, circular shaft-shaped cam rotating shafts 404 disposed on both sides of cam 172, an arc-shaped primary slider operating portion 406, and a torsion spring fixing portion 408 capable of accommodating one end of cam torsion spring 168. Here, the upper end of arc-shaped open slot 403 is upper engagement portion 402, and the lower end of arc-shaped open slot 403 is lower engagement portion 401. The upper engagement portion 402 of the cam 172 contacts the tip 420 of the hook body of the door hook, and can rotate the cam 172 clockwise around the cam rotation shaft 404 under the upward force of the tip 420 of the hook body in the z direction (when the door hook 102 is inserted into the door lock hole 130), and the lower engagement portion 401 of the cam 172 contacts the upper surface 418 of the door hook hole 416, and can rotate the cam 172 counterclockwise around the cam rotation shaft 404 under the downward force of the upper surface 418 in the z direction (when the door hook 102 is pulled out of the door lock hole 130).

[0043] Figure 5A is a three-dimensional view of the primary slider 174 shown in Figures 3A and 3B, illustrating the mating relationship between the primary slider 174 and the cam 172. Figure 5B is a three-dimensional view of the primary slider 174 shown in Figure 5A from another perspective, illustrating more features of the primary slider 174.

[0044] 5A, the primary slider 174 includes a primary slider mating tapered portion 502 and a primary slider guide protrusion 504. The primary slider mating tapered portion 502 is disposed on one end of the primary slider 174 and is mated with the primary slider actuating portion 406 of the cam 172. As a result, when the cam 172 rotates counterclockwise around the cam rotation shaft 404, the primary slider actuating portion 406 of the cam 172 can push and move the primary slider 174 in the x direction toward the first inner wall 146 (see FIG. 1E). The primary slider guide protrusion 504 is mated with a corresponding guide slot disposed in the x direction on the inner wall of the door lock box top cover 122, limiting the movement of the primary slider 174 to reciprocating motion only in the x direction and preventing movement in the y direction.

[0045] 5B , the primary slider 174 further includes a primary slider biasing spring receiving portion 506 and a secondary slider actuating portion 508. Here, the primary slider biasing spring receiving portion 506 is disposed at the other end of the primary slider 174 opposite the primary slider mating tapered portion 502, and is for receiving the primary slider biasing spring 164. The secondary slider actuating portion 508 is disposed on the side of the primary slider 174, and includes a secondary slider actuating tapered portion 510 for actuating the secondary slider 176.

[0046] Figure 6A is a three-dimensional view of the secondary slider 176 shown in Figures 3A and 3B. Figure 6B is a three-dimensional view of the secondary slider 176 shown in Figure 6A from another perspective, showing more features of the secondary slider 176.

[0047] As shown in FIG. 6A , the secondary slider 176 includes a secondary slider mating taper 602, a pendulum rod actuation slot 604, a secondary slider bias spring retainer 610, and a locking structure 612. Here, the secondary slider mating taper 602 is disposed on one end of the secondary slider 176 and mates with the secondary slider actuation taper 510 of the primary slider 174. This allows the secondary slider actuation taper 510 of the primary slider 174 to push and move the secondary slider 176 in the y direction toward the second inner wall 148 (see FIG. 1E ) when the primary slider 174 moves in the x direction toward the first inner wall 146 (see FIG. 1E ). The pendulum rod actuation slot 604 is disposed on the side of the secondary slider 176 and is used to drive the rotation of the pendulum rod 178. The secondary slider bias spring retaining portion 610 is disposed at the other end of the secondary slider 176 opposite the secondary slider mating tapered portion 602 and retains the secondary slider bias spring 166. The locking structure 612 is disposed near the upper surface of the secondary slider bias spring retaining portion 610 and includes locking protrusions 613 and 614. When the secondary slider 176 is in the secondary slider travel end position, the locking structure 612 engages with the main switch actuation pin 156 protruding from the rectangular hole 293 in the bottom portion 145 of the switch box in the z direction, thereby locking the secondary slider 176 in the secondary slider travel end position and preventing movement in the y direction. The secondary slider 176 in the secondary slider travel end position can then abut against the secondary slider actuation tapered portion 510 of the primary slider 174 via the secondary slider mating tapered portion 602, thereby locking the primary slider 174 in the primary slider travel end position. The primary slider 174 at the primary slider travel end position can abut against the primary slider operating portion 406 of the cam 172 via the primary slider mating tapered portion 502, thereby locking the cam 172 at the extreme position of its clockwise rotation (the position corresponding to the closed state) and locking the door of the electrical equipment. The secondary slider 176 is disposed in a corresponding groove disposed in the y direction on the inner wall of the door lock box top cover 122, so that the secondary slider 176 is limited to movement only in the y direction and does not move in the x direction.

[0048] As shown in FIG. 6B, pendulum rod actuation surfaces 606 and 608 of pendulum rod actuation slot 604 of secondary slider 176 allow pendulum rod 178 to oscillate about pendulum rod axis 196 during reciprocating motion of secondary slider 176 in the y-direction.

[0049] 7 is a three-dimensional view of the pendulum rod 178 shown in FIGS. 3A and 3B. As shown in FIG. 7, the pendulum rod 178 includes a pendulum rod fitting portion 702, a control switch actuation portion 706, and a pendulum rod rotation portion 704 disposed in the center of the pendulum rod 178. The pendulum rod fitting portion 702 is disposed at one end of the pendulum rod 178 and is housed in the pendulum rod actuation slot 604 of the secondary slider 176. The pendulum rod actuation surfaces 606 and 608 of the secondary slider 176 are capable of contacting the pendulum rod fitting portion 702, and the pendulum rod actuation surfaces 606 and 608 can swing the pendulum rod 178 back and forth in the β direction about the pendulum rod axis 196 via the pendulum rod rotation portion 704 during reciprocating motion of the secondary slider 176 in the y direction. The control switch actuation portion 706 is disposed at the other end of the pendulum rod 178 opposite the pendulum rod fitting portion 702, and has a sliding surface 710 and a control switch actuation tapered portion 708. Here, the sliding surface 710 of the pendulum rod 178 slides on the bottom of the control switch actuation pin 180 to maintain its raised state, and when the pendulum rod 178 swings to a position where the sliding surface 710 disengages from the bottom of the control switch actuation pin 180, the control switch actuation pin 180 immediately drops. Conversely, when the pendulum rod 178 swings from a position where the sliding surface 710 disengages from the bottom of the control switch actuation pin 180 to a position where the sliding surface 710 contacts the bottom of the control switch actuation pin 180, the control switch actuation tapered portion 708 can lift the control switch actuation pin 180 upward in the z direction.

[0050] FIG. 8 is a three-dimensional view of the control switch actuation pin 180 shown in FIGS. 3A and 3B, illustrating the mating relationship between the control switch actuation pin 180, the pendulum rod 178, and the reed 132.

[0051] As shown in FIG. 8 , the control switch actuation pin 180 includes an upper portion 802, a lower pressing portion 804, and a lower sliding portion 806. Here, the lower sliding portion 806 has a spherical shape, allowing the sliding surface 710 of the pendulum rod 178 to slide back and forth under the spherical surface of the lower sliding portion 806. In some other examples, the lower sliding portion 806 may not be spherical, but may have a surface of any shape that maintains smooth contact with the sliding surface 710. The lower pressing portion 804 is a tapered portion formed by cutting out part of the material of the lower sliding portion 806 at a specific angle, and can fit into the control switch actuation tapered portion 708 of the pendulum rod 178. As a result, the control switch actuation tapered portion 708 presses upward against the tapered portion of the lower pressing portion 804 of the control switch actuation pin 180 as the pendulum rod 178 swings, causing the control switch actuation portion 212 to move upward in the z direction. The upper portion 802 of the control switch actuation pin 180 can lift the control switch actuation portion 212 of the reed 132 upward, thereby breaking contact between the control switch reed contact 202 and the contact guide rod 188 (see FIG. 1D). When the upper portion 802 falls downward together with the control switch actuation pin 180, the control switch actuation portion 212 of the reed 132 also falls downward accordingly, thereby maintaining contact between the control switch reed contact 202 and the contact guide rod 188 (see FIG. 1D).

[0052] 4A-8, upward movement of the door hook 102 in the z-direction, driven by the door, can be transmitted to up and down movement of the control switch actuation pin 180 in the z-direction via the respective movements of the cam 172, primary slider 174, secondary slider 176, and pendulum rod 178. This causes contact or disconnection between the control switch reed contact 202 of the reed 132 and the contact guide rod 188 (see FIG. 1D).

[0053] 9 and 10 show corresponding components inside the switch box 124 for operating the main switch operating pin 156 and the hold switch driving block 904, and the mating relationship between them. Here, FIG. 9 is a three-dimensional view of the transmission mechanism 152 shown in FIG. 1D, showing the mating relationship between the transmission mechanism 152 and the reed 132. Also, FIG. 10 is a three-dimensional view of the main switch operating pin 156, showing the mating relationship between the main switch operating pin 156, the transmission mechanism 152, and the reed 132. The operating process of the main switch operating pin 156 and the hold switch driving block 904 will be described below in conjunction with FIGS. 9, 10, and 1D.

[0054] As shown in FIG. 1D , the exciter 154, the transmission device 152, and the main switch actuation pin 156 are disposed inside the switch box 124. The exciter 154 is electrically connected to a main control board (not shown) of the electrical equipment and can receive an electronic activation signal transmitted from the main control board. Upon receiving the electronic activation signal, the exciter 154 can drive the movement of the main switch actuation pin 156 in the z-direction via the transmission device 152. As an example, the exciter 154 is a solenoid electromagnet including an iron core and a coil, and the iron core is inserted into the coil (not shown in FIG. 1D ). Here, the iron core is connected to the transmission device 152, which can drive the movement of the transmission device 152 and thereby drive the movement of the main switch actuation pin 156. Specifically, the transmission device 152 has a locked state and an unlocked state. Each time the iron core moves, the transmission device 152 moves accordingly, switching once between the locked state and the unlocked state of the transmission device 152. In the present example, the electronic activation signal sent from the main control board of the electrical equipment may be arranged as a pulse signal, with each pulse signal moving the iron core once and pushing the movement of the transmission device 152 once.

[0055] The transmission device 152 has a mechanical commutator disposed therein. As an example, the mechanical commutator may be a push-push mechanism 158, which may be implemented in various ways, such as a "push-push mechanism like a ballpoint pen tip." The push-push mechanism 158 engages with the excitation device 154 to drive the reciprocating motion of the transmission device 152 in the x-direction, thereby switching between the locked and unlocked states. In other examples, the mechanical commutator may also employ a "heart-shaped" groove structure or other structure to move the position of the transmission device 152 in response to each pulse signal.

[0056] 9 and 10 , a master switch actuation pin drive taper 906 is provided on a side of the transmission device 152, and a corresponding drive taper 1002 is further provided on a side of the master switch actuation pin 156 near the transmission device 152. This allows the transmission device 152 to reciprocate in the x direction, driving the master switch actuation pin 156 to move up and down in the z direction, thereby raising or lowering the master switch actuation portion 216 of the reed 132. A hold switch drive block 904 is further provided on the side of the transmission device 152, and the reciprocating movement of the transmission device 152 in the x direction can raise or lower the hold switch actuation portion 214 of the reed 132 via the hold switch drive block 904. In some other examples, the hold switch actuation portion 214 does not necessarily have to be actuated by part of the transmission device 152 (the hold switch drive block 904), but may be actuated by an independent component located in the same manner as the main switch actuation pin 156.

[0057] 10 , a main switch reed retaining groove 1004 is further provided on the main switch actuating pin 156 on the opposite side to the drive tapered portion 1002, and this retaining groove 1004 has two upper and lower protrusions 1006 for retaining the main switch actuating portion 216 of the reed 132. During the up and down movement of the main switch actuating pin 156 in the z direction, the protrusions 1006 of the main switch reed retaining groove 1004 can accordingly drive the up and down movement of the main switch actuating portion 216 of the reed 132, thereby disconnecting or connecting the electrical connection between the main switch reed contact 206 and the main switch contact 181.

[0058] Specifically, in the released state, the transmission device 152 is in a position close to the left (but not the far-left position). When the exciter 154 receives an electronic activation signal, the exciter 154 pulls the transmission device 152 to the left, moving it to the far-left position, and the push-push mechanism 158 switches to a locked state. When the electronic activation signal disappears, the exciter 154 no longer exerts electromagnetic force, and the push-push mechanism 158 pushes the transmission device 152 to the right, holding it in the far-right position. With the transmission device 152 in the locked state, the main switch actuation pin 156 passes through the square hole 293 in the bottom 145 of the switch box and accordingly drops into the locking structure 612 (see FIG. 6A ) on the secondary slider 176, thereby locking the secondary slider 176 and preventing it from moving (i.e., in the locked position).

[0059] In the locked state, the transmission device 152 is in the extreme right position. When the exciter 154 receives another electronic activation signal, the exciter 154 pulls the transmission device 152 to the left, and the push-push mechanism 158 switches to the unlocked state. The push-push mechanism 158 holds the transmission device 152 in the near-left position (but not the far-left position) to reset the transmission device 152 and transition it to the unlocked state. The master switch actuation pin 156 is then lifted upward and disengaged from the locking structure 612 on the secondary slider 176 (i.e., the unlocked position). Here, the master switch actuation pin retaining surface 908 is provided on the upper portion of the master switch actuation pin drive tapered portion 906. When the master switch actuation pin 156 is in the unlocked position (i.e., when the unlocked transmission device 152 is in the near-left position), the transmission device 152 can move leftward from its near-left position to its far-left position. At this time, the master switch actuation pin retention surface 908 slides under the drive taper 1002 of the master switch actuation pin 156, preventing the master switch actuation pin 156 from moving any further in the z-direction.

[0060] 2A and 9, there is a drive guide rod 902 that extends below the bottom of the transmission 152 and protrudes from a slot 295 in the bottom 145 of the switch box. Restricting the size of the slot 279 restricts the transmission 152 to movement only in the x direction with no displacement in the y direction during movement, thereby preventing the sides of the main switch actuation pin 156 from disengaging from the main switch actuation pin drive taper 906.

[0061] The various components of the door lock 100 of the present application and their mating relationships have been described above with reference to Figures 1 to 10. The specific operating process of the door lock 100 of the present application will now be described with reference to Figures 11A to 11D.

[0062] 11A is a schematic diagram of the door lock 100 of the present application when the door is in an open position. As shown in FIG. 11A, when the door is in an open position, the door hook 102 is in a protruding state, causing the cam 172 to rotate counterclockwise to its extreme position. As a result, the cam 172 pushes the primary slider 174 in the x direction toward the first inner wall 146 against the biasing force of the primary slider bias spring 164 (the primary slider bias spring 164 is compressed to its compressed state) until it reaches the primary slider movement start position. Then, the primary slider 174 pushes the secondary slider 176 in the y direction toward the second inner wall 148 against the biasing force of the secondary slider bias spring 166 (the secondary slider bias spring 166 is compressed to its compressed state) until it reaches the secondary slider movement start position, causing the secondary slider 176 to swing the pendulum rod 178 counterclockwise. The counterclockwise swing of the pendulum rod 178 pushes the control switch actuation pin 180 upward in the z direction, lifting the control switch actuation portion 212 of the reed 132 upward, thereby breaking contact between the control switch reed contact 202 and the contact guide rod 188.

[0063] At this time, the transmission device 152 (here, the transmission device 152 is omitted to show the movement states of the secondary slider 174 and the secondary slider biasing spring 166) is in the released state on the left side, lifting the main switch actuation pin 156 upward in the z direction to maintain the unlocked state of the secondary slider 176. At the same time, the retention switch actuation portion 214 and the main switch actuation portion 216 of the reed 132 also move upward accordingly, breaking the contact between the retention switch reed contact 204 and the contact guide rod 188 and breaking the electrical connection between the main switch reed contact 206 and the main switch contact 181 (see FIG. 1D ).

[0064] 11B is a schematic diagram of the present door lock 100 when the door is in an unlocked state. As shown in FIG. 11B, when the door is closed but in an unlocked state, the door hook 102 is in an inserted state, causing the cam 172 to rotate clockwise to an extreme position, whereby the cam 172 no longer presses against the primary slider 174. The primary slider 174 moves in the x direction away from the first inner wall 146 under the biasing force of the primary slider biasing spring 164 (the primary slider biasing spring 164 returns from the compressed state to its initial state) until it reaches a primary slider travel end position, whereby the primary slider 174 no longer presses against the secondary slider 176. Under the biasing force of the secondary slider biasing spring 166 (the secondary slider biasing spring 166 returns from its compressed state to its initial state), the secondary slider 176 moves in the y direction away from the second inner wall 148 until it reaches a secondary slider end position, causing the secondary slider 176 to swing the pendulum rod 178 clockwise. The clockwise swing of the pendulum rod 178 causes the control switch actuation pin 180 to drop in the z direction, and the control switch actuation portion 212 of the reed 132 also drops accordingly, causing the control switch reed contact 202 to contact the contact guide rod 188.

[0065] At this time, the transmission device 152 remains in the released state on the left side, thereby maintaining the disconnected state between the retention switch reed contact 204 and the contact guide rod 188, the disconnected state of the electrical connection between the main switch reed contact 206 and the main switch contact 181 (see FIG. 1D), and the main switch actuation pin 156 maintaining the unlocked state of the secondary slider 176.

[0066] FIG. 11C is a schematic diagram of the door lock 100 of the present application when the door is in the locked state (normal operating state). As shown in FIG. 11C, in the locked state, the control switch reed contact 202 and the contact guide rod 188 maintain contact, thereby electrically connecting the exciter 154 and allowing the main control board to send a pulse signal to the exciter 154. In response to the received pulse signal, the exciter 154 pushes the transmission device 152 to the right via the push-push mechanism 158 (the push-push mechanism 158 is omitted here to show the movement state of the secondary slider 174), maintaining the transmission device 152 in a locked state on the right side. This causes the main switch operating pin 156 to drop in the z direction, locking the secondary slider 176 at the end of its travel. The secondary slider 176 at the secondary slider travel end position can lock the primary slider 174 at the primary slider travel end position, and the primary slider 174 at the primary slider travel end position can lock the cam 172, thereby locking the door of the electrical appliance. At the same time, the retention switch operating portion 214 and the main switch operating portion 216 of the reed 132 also move downward accordingly, so that the retention switch reed contact 204 contacts the contact guide rod 188, and the electrical connection between the main switch reed contact 206 and the main switch contact 181 (see FIG. 1D ) is established. At this time, the electrical appliance can start operating normally.

[0067] FIG. 11D is a schematic diagram of the door lock 100 of the present application when the door is in a locked state (door abnormal state). As shown in FIG. 11D, when the door is in a locked state, if an external force (F) pulls the door hook 102, or under abnormal circumstances such as a pressure difference between the inside and outside of the drum or pressure exerted on the washing machine door by clothes inside the washing machine, the door hook 102 moves slightly outward (i.e., the door hook 102 tends to move toward the protruding state shown in FIG. 11A). This causes the cam 172, primary slider 174, secondary slider 176, pendulum rod 178, and control switch actuation pin 180 to move accordingly, which may result in the disconnection of the control switch reed contact 202 and the contact guide rod 188. If the external force (F) acting on the door hook 102 cannot be eliminated, the control switch reed contact 202 (door sensor switch) remains in the disconnected state. Because the main control board does not send a new pulse signal, the transmission device 152 remains in the locked state on the right side, maintaining a connection between the holding switch reed contacts 204 (holding circuit switch) and the master switch reed contacts 206 (main circuit switch). This leaves the exciter 154 electrically connected to receive the pulse signal sent from the main control board as normal, moving the master switch actuation pin 156 upward in the z direction to unlock the secondary slider 176, thereby unlocking the primary slider 174, cam 172, and the appliance door. After the door is unlocked, it can be pulled outward to return the door lock 100 to the open state shown in FIG. 11A.

[0068] In conventional door locks, the holding switch reed contact is not provided on the reed, so when the door sensor switch is disconnected, the exciter is also electrically disconnected, thereby preventing the main switch operating pin from being driven to unlock. In the door lock 100 of the present application, both the control switch reed contact 202 (door sensor switch) and the holding switch reed contact 204 (holding circuit switch) are provided on the reed 132, so even if the door sensor switch is accidentally disconnected, the holding circuit switch remains connected. Therefore, the above technical problem does not occur.

[0069] 12 is a schematic diagram of a washing machine 1200 equipped with the door lock 100 of the present application, illustrating an application scenario of the door lock 100. As shown in FIG. 12, the washing machine 1200 has a tub 1204 for storing clothes and a door 1202 surrounding the tub. The door hook 102 is attached to the washing machine door 1202, and the door lock box 120 is attached to a corresponding position on the washing machine body 1206, so that the door hook 102 on the washing machine door 1202 can be inserted into the door lock hole 130 of the door lock box 120. Of course, the door lock box 120 may be attached to the washing machine door 1202, and the door hook 102 may be attached to the washing machine body 1206.

[0070] The washing machine 1200 of FIG. 12 is merely an example, and the door lock 100 of the present application can be installed in a variety of electrical appliances, such as dishwashers, dryers, microwave ovens, and other non-electrical appliances, that have a tub and a door used to enclose the tub.

[0071] 13A-13E are schematic diagrams of a control circuit 1300 for the control switch in the door lock 100 of the present application, and correspond to the various states of the control circuit 1300 in FIGS. 11A-11D.

[0072] FIG. 13A is a schematic diagram of a control circuit 1300 of the door lock 100 of the present application. As shown in FIG. 13, the control circuit 1300 includes a first branch circuit (i.e., control circuit) 1304, a second branch circuit (i.e., main circuit) 1302, and a third branch circuit (i.e., holding circuit) 1306. Here, the first branch circuit 1304 has a first branch circuit head end 1323 and a first branch circuit tail end 1324, and the second branch circuit 1302 has a second branch circuit head end 1321 and a second branch circuit tail end 1322. The first branch circuit 1304 includes a control circuit switch (i.e., door sensor switch) 1314 and an exciter 154 electrically connected in series. The second branch circuit 1302 includes a main circuit switch 1312. The third branch circuit 1306 is connected in parallel across a control circuit switch (door sensor switch) 1314 and includes a holding circuit switch 1316. Here, the first branch circuit head end 1323 and the second branch circuit head end 1321 are electrically connected to a common terminal 208 (i.e., the center portion 208 of the lead 132) electrically connected to ground via a switch box connector 184. The first branch circuit tail end 1324 is electrically connected to a main control board 1326 (see FIGS. 13B-13E) using low voltage via a switch box connector 186. And the second branch circuit tail end 1322 is electrically connected to a motor 1362 (see FIGS. 13B-13E) using high voltage via a main switch contact 181, and this motor 1362 is used to drive an electrical device. Here, the control circuit switch (door sensor switch) 1314 may be closed or disconnected in response to the actuation of a mechanical force (e.g., the opening of a door), and the main circuit switch 1312 and the holding circuit switch 1316 may be closed or disconnected in response to the excitation of the excitation device 154.Closing or disconnecting the main circuit switch 1312 corresponds to connection or disconnection between the main switch reed contact 206 of the reed 132 and the main switch contact 181, closing or disconnecting the control circuit switch (door sensor switch) 1314 corresponds to connection or disconnection between the control switch reed contact 202 of the reed 132 and the contact guide rod 188, and closing or disconnecting the holding circuit switch 1316 corresponds to connection or disconnection between the holding switch reed contact 204 of the reed 132 and the contact guide rod 188.

[0073] As shown in FIGS. 13B to 13E, the main control board 1326 includes a circuit detection unit 1332, a user control unit 1334, a door lock control unit 1336, and a motor control unit 1338. The circuit detection unit 1332 can detect whether the second branch circuit 1302 is electrically connected via a switch feedback circuit 1352. The user control unit 1334 can receive a signal 1354 input by a user via the electrical appliance's dialogue panel. The door lock control unit 1336 can be used to send an electronic activation signal (e.g., a pulse signal 1358 as shown in FIGS. 13D and 13E) to the exciter 154. The motor control unit 1338 can control the start, rotation speed, or stop of the motor 1362 via the motor control circuit 1356. In this example, the main control board 1326, which uses a low voltage, and the motor 1362, which uses a high voltage, are commonly connected to a power source 1364 via a transformer 1328. However, at least to those skilled in the art, in some other examples, the main control board 1326 using a low voltage and the motor 1362 using a high voltage may be separately connected to power supplies of different voltages.

[0074] FIG. 13B is a schematic diagram of the control circuit 1300 of FIG. 13A corresponding to the door lock 100 of FIG. 11A when the door is in the open state. When the door of the electrical device is in the open state, the control circuit switch (door sensor switch) 1314 remains disconnected via the door sensor mechanism 162. Since the first branch circuit 1304 is in the disconnected state, the main control board 1326 and the excitation device 154 cannot be powered on. As a result, the main circuit switch 1312 and the holding circuit switch 1316 cannot be closed in response to the excitation of the excitation device 154. Therefore, the second branch circuit 1302 and the third branch circuit 1306 are also in the disconnected state, and the door of the electrical device is in the unlocked state.

[0075] FIG. 13C is a schematic diagram of the control circuit 1300 of FIG. 13A corresponding to the door lock 100 of FIG. 11B when the door is in the closed state. When the door of the electrical device is closed, the control circuit switch (door sensor switch) 1314 is closed via the door sensor mechanism 162. At this time, the first branch circuit 1304 is connected, and the excitation device 154 can receive the pulse signal 1358 from the main control board 1326 for excitation.

[0076] FIG. 13D is a schematic diagram of the control circuit 1300 of FIG. 13A corresponding to the door lock 100 of FIG. 11C when the door is in the locked state (normal operating state). When the door of the electrical device is closed, the user can input a startup command to the main control board 1326 via the interactive panel of the electrical device. When the user control unit 1334 of the main control board 1326 receives the startup signal 1354 input by the user, the door lock control unit 1336 of the main control board 1326 can transmit a pulse signal 1358 to the excitation device 154 to excite the excitation device 154. The main circuit switch 1312 and the holding circuit switch 1316 close in response to the excitation of the excitation device 154, connecting the second branch circuit 1302 and the third branch circuit 1306, locking the door of the electrical device, and starting the operation of the motor 1362. Specifically, each time the excitation device 154 is excited, the iron core in the excitation device 154 reciprocates in the x direction within the coil, thereby causing the transmission mechanism 152 of FIG. 1D to move from the released state to the locked state. As a result, the main switch operating pin 156 and the holding switch drive block 904 are released, the main circuit switch 1312 and the holding circuit switch 1316 are closed, and the second branch circuit 1302 and the third branch circuit 1306 are connected. At the same time, the main switch operating pin 156 drops onto the locking structure 612 on the secondary slider 176, locking the secondary slider, thereby locking the primary slider 174, the cam 172, and the door of the electrical device. After the circuit detection unit 1332 of the main control board 1326 detects that the second branch circuit 1302 is electrically connected via the switch feedback circuit 1352, the motor control unit 1338 controls the startup of the motor 1362 via the motor control circuit 1356 to start the operation of the electrical device.

[0077] When the operation program of the electrical appliance ends or when the user inputs a stop command to the main control board 1326 via the dialog panel of the electrical appliance, the motor control unit 1338 of the main control board 1326 stops the operation of the motor 1362 via the motor control circuit 1356. Next, the door lock control unit 1336 of the main control board 1326 may again send a pulse signal 1358 to the exciter 154 to excite the exciter 154. The iron core of the exciter 154 then reciprocates in the x-direction within the coil again, thereby moving the transmission mechanism 152 in FIG. 1D from the locked state to the unlocked state. This activates the main switch operating pin 156 and the holding switch driving block 904 to disconnect the main circuit switch 1312 and the holding circuit switch 1316, and disconnect the second branch circuit 1302 and the third branch circuit 1306. After the main switch operating pin 156 is lifted upward, the door of the electrical appliance is unlocked and can be opened normally.

[0078] In other words, within the effective period of the series of pulse signals 1358 transmitted from the main control board 1326, in response to an earlier pulse signal in the series of pulse signals 1358, the transmission mechanism 152 moves to the locked state and closes the main circuit switch 1312 and the hold circuit switch 1316. When the earlier pulse signal disappears, the operation states of the main circuit switch 1312 and the hold circuit switch 1316 remain unchanged. Thereafter, in response to a later pulse signal in the series of pulse signals 1358, the transmission mechanism 152 moves from the locked state to the released state and disconnects the main circuit switch 1312 and the hold circuit switch 1316. When the later pulse signal disappears, the operation states of the main circuit switch 1312 and the hold circuit switch 1316 remain unchanged.

[0079] FIG. 13E is a schematic diagram of the control circuit 1300 of FIG. 13A corresponding to the door lock 100 of FIG. 11D when the door is in the locked state (the door is in an abnormal state). When an external force is applied to the door during operation of the electrical device, it moves the door hook 102 downward in the z direction, pulling the cam 172 to rotate counterclockwise, as shown in FIG. 3A. The rotation of the cam 172 pushes and moves the primary slider 174 in the x direction toward the first inner wall 146 (see FIG. 1E). While the primary slider 174 moves, it can push and move the secondary slider 176 in the y direction toward the second inner wall 148 (see FIG. 1E). While the secondary slider 176 moves, it can swing the pendulum rod 178 counterclockwise, and the swinging of the pendulum rod 178 moves the control switch actuation pin 180 upward in the z-direction, lifting the control switch actuation portion 212 of the reed 132 upward, cutting the contact between the control switch reed contact 202 and the contact guide rod 188 (see FIG. 1D ), finally causing the abnormal disconnection of the control circuit switch (door sensor switch) 1314 and disconnecting the second branch circuit 1304. At this time, the main circuit switch 1312 and the holding circuit switch 1316 remain closed, so that the third branch circuit 1306 can provide the control circuit 1304 with an electrical path parallel to the control circuit switch 1314 (i.e., the alternative control circuit switch 1314). That is, the exciter 154 and the main control board 1326 remain electrically connected via the third branch circuit 1306, which in turn keeps the various components on the second branch circuit (control circuit) 1304 electrically connected. Therefore, the corresponding motor 1362 stopping and door unlocking functions are not affected by the disconnection of the control circuit switch (door sensor switch) 1314. The main control board 1326 can control the stopping of the motor 1362 and the door unlocking in the same manner as previously described in Figure 13D, restoring the circuit state shown in Figure 13B.

[0080] 14 is a block diagram of the main control board 1326 shown in FIGS. 13B to 13E, showing the main components and connections of the main control board 1326. The main control board 1326 stores and executes the above-mentioned electrical equipment operation program, and can receive and output various signals related to the control circuit 1300.

[0081] 14 , the main control board 1326 includes a bus 1402, a processor 1404, a memory 1406, an input interface 1408, and an output interface 1410. The processor 1404, the memory 1406, the input interface 1408, and the output interface 1410 are connected to the bus 1402. The memory 1406 can store an operation program for an electric device. The processor 1404 can read and execute the program in the memory 1406 to control the operation of the motor 1362. By executing the program in the memory 1406, the processor 1404 can control the memory 1406, the input interface 1408, and the output interface 1410.

[0082] The input interface 1408 is configured to receive a signal electrically connected to the second branch circuit 1302 and a user input signal 1354 via cables (i.e., switch feedback circuits) 1352 and 1353, respectively, and convert the data of these signals into signals that can be identified by the processor 1404 and store them in the memory 1406.

[0083] The output interface 1410 is configured to receive a signal electrically connected to the second branch circuit 1302 from the processor 1404 and a user input signal 1354, output a motor control signal from the output interface 1410 via a cable (i.e., a motor control circuit) 1356 to control the operation of the motor 1362, and excite the exciter 154 via a pulse signal output by a cable 1357.

[0084] The above example uses a door lock as an example to explain the operating principle, exemplary structure, and application of the locking device of the present application, but those skilled in the art should understand that the locking device of the present application is not limited to a door lock and can also be applied to other locking devices.

[0085] The door lock of the present application has the following advantages over prior art door locks:

[0086] First, the door lock of the present application adds a reed contact (i.e., a holding switch reed contact) to the existing switch reed, which is arranged to be connected in parallel with the door sensor switch reed contact. This allows the door lock to still be unlocked even when the door of the electrical appliance is locked and the door sensor switch is accidentally disconnected, so that the door can be opened normally after the electrical appliance has finished operating.

[0087] Second, the door lock box and switch box of the present invention use existing modules or standard components. Compared with the door sensor mechanisms of existing door locks, the door sensor mechanism of the present invention uses a fitting structure of multiple sliders and pendulum rods, occupying a relatively small space within the door lock box. Therefore, more elements can be placed within a standard-sized door lock box, allowing the door lock to have more functions.

[0088] The controlled switch circuit of the present invention has the following advantages over the controlled switch circuits of the prior art.

[0089] The present application adds a holding circuit (i.e., the aforementioned third branch circuit 1306) connected in parallel with the door sensor switch to the existing control switch circuit, and the holding circuit can be connected in response to a control signal after the door sensor switch is closed. If the door sensor switch is accidentally disconnected, the holding circuit maintains a connected state, so that the electrical components connected to the main control board can remain electrically connected. Therefore, the function of the control circuit is not affected by the accidental disconnection of the door sensor switch.

[0090] While the present application has been described in connection with the above examples, various alternatives, modifications, variations, improvements, and / or substantial equivalents, whether known or presently or foreseeably foreseeable in the near future, may be apparent to at least one skilled in the art. In addition, the technical effects and / or technical problems described herein are illustrative and not limiting. Thus, the disclosure of the present application can be used to solve other technical problems, have other technical effects, and / or solve other technical problems. Thus, the examples of the present application set forth above are intended to be illustrative and not limiting. Various changes may be made without departing from the spirit or scope of the present application. Thus, the present application is intended to include all known or earlier-developed alternatives, modifications, variations, improvements, and / or substantial equivalents.

Claims

1. A circuit (1300) for controlling a switch, comprising: a first branch circuit (1304) having a first branch circuit head end (1323) and a first branch circuit tail end (1324), the first branch circuit comprising a control circuit switch (1314) and an exciter (154) electrically connected in series; a second branch circuit (1302) having a second branch circuit head end (1321) and a second branch circuit tail end (1322) and including a main circuit switch (1312); a third branch circuit (1306) connected in parallel across the control circuit switch (1314) and comprising a holding circuit switch (1316); Equipped with The first branch circuit head end (1323) and the second branch circuit head end (1321) are electrically connected to a common terminal (208); The circuit (1300), wherein the main circuit switch (1312) and the holding circuit switch (1316) are configured to close or disconnect in response to energization of the exciter (154) when the control circuit switch (1314) closes.

2. 2. The circuit of claim 1, wherein the exciter (154) can be energized when at least one of the control circuit switch (1314) and the holding circuit switch (1316) is closed.

3. The circuit of claim 2 , wherein the control circuit switch (1314) is configured to be closed or disconnected in response to actuation of a mechanical force.

4. 4. The circuit of claim 3, wherein the circuit is used to control an electrical appliance having an appliance door, and the control circuit switch (1314) is configured to close in response to the appliance door being closed.

5. 5. The circuit of claim 4, further comprising a transmission mechanism (152), wherein excitation of the excitation device (154) is capable of driving movement of the transmission mechanism (152), and movement of the transmission mechanism (152) is capable of closing or opening the main circuit switch (1312) and the holding circuit switch (1316).

6. 6. The circuit of claim 5, wherein the transmission mechanism (152) is a linear drive component having a mechanical commutator (158), and movement of the transmission mechanism (152) is capable of closing or disconnecting the main circuit switch (1312) and the holding circuit switch (1316).

7. The exciter (154) receives a series of pulse signals (1358) transmitted from a main control board (1326) via the first branch circuit tail end (1324); Each pulse signal in the series of pulse signals (1358) is capable of energizing the excitation device (154) when the control circuit switch (1314) or the holding circuit switch (1316) is closed; During the valid period of the series of pulse signals (1358), the transmission mechanism (152) moves in a first direction in response to a previous pulse signal in the series of pulse signals (1358), closing the main circuit switch (1312) and the holding circuit switch (1316), and when the previous pulse signal disappears, the operating states of the main circuit switch (1312) and the holding circuit switch (1316) remain unchanged; 7. The circuit of claim 6, wherein, during an effective period of the series of pulse signals (1358), the transmission mechanism (152) moves in a second direction in response to a later pulse signal in the series of pulse signals (1358) to disconnect the main circuit switch (1312) and the holding circuit switch (1316), and when the later pulse signal disappears, the operating states of the main circuit switch (1312) and the holding circuit switch (1316) remain unchanged.

8. The common terminal (208) is electrically connected to ground; The first branch circuit tail end (1324) is electrically connected to a main control board (1326) using a low voltage; 2. The circuit of claim 1, wherein the second branch circuit tail end (1322) is electrically connected to a motor (1362) using high voltage, the motor (1362) being used to drive an electric device.

9. The circuit of claim 1 , wherein the exciter (154) is a solenoid electromagnet.

10. A washing machine (1200) comprising a circuit (1300) according to any one of claims 1 to 9.

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