Locking device for a door of a domestic appliance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional locking devices for domestic appliance doors are complex, require long reaction times, and have large outer dimensions, making them difficult to assemble and install, and are not easily switchable between engaged and disengaged states.
Innovation Solution
A locking device with a pivoting locking hook element, an electric actuator, and spring elements that allow for fast switching between engaged and disengaged positions, featuring a simple structure and reduced component count, enabling quick and easy installation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional actuation systems (wax electro-thermal motor, solenoid, stepper motor) are used, then the locking device provides reliable locking function, but the reaction time is long and the structure is complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and eliminates the complex intermediate transmission mechanisms (gears, linkages, multiple sliding elements) from conventional actuation systems. The electric actuator directly drives the locking bar element through a simple rotational-to-linear motion conversion, removing unnecessary mechanical components while maintaining reliable locking function.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex mechanical actuation systems (wax electro-thermal motors, solenoids, stepper motors with multiple sliding elements) with a simplified electric actuator system that uses direct electromagnetic or piezoelectric actuation. This substitution reduces mechanical complexity while maintaining or improving response time and reliability.
2Force
If conventional actuation systems are used, then the locking device provides sufficient locking force, but the outer dimensions are large
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the actuator and locking mechanism into a compact integrated assembly. The electric actuator is positioned directly adjacent to the locking bar element, eliminating the need for separate mounting brackets, linkages, and intermediate components. This merging reduces the overall volume while maintaining sufficient locking force through direct force transmission.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a nested arrangement where the locking bar element rotates within a confined space defined by the main body housing. The spring element is nested within the housing structure, and the actuator is positioned to directly engage the locking bar's rotation axis. This nesting minimizes the bounding box dimensions while preserving full locking force capability.
3Reliability
If conventional actuation systems with multiple sliding elements are used, then the locking device provides stable locking, but the assembling and installation is complicated
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the locking device into three main functional modules: the electric actuator assembly, the locking bar element with pivot axis, and the spring element assembly. Each module can be pre-assembled and tested independently, then quickly installed in the main body housing. This segmentation simplifies manufacturing and assembly while maintaining stable locking through precise module interfaces.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates preliminary positioning features such as pre-drilled alignment holes, pre-installed pivot axes on the locking bar element, and pre-compressed spring elements. These preliminary actions are performed during manufacturing, allowing the locking device to be installed as a complete unit without requiring complex on-site assembly procedures. The locking bar is pre-configured with its rotation axis, eliminating the need for field alignment.
4Reliability
If conventional locking devices are used, then the door remains locked during operation, but the switching between engaged and disengaged states is slow
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses periodic or pulsed actuation of the electric actuator to achieve rapid state transitions. The actuator delivers short, high-force pulses that quickly rotate the locking bar between engaged and disengaged positions. This periodic action mode enables switching speeds under 0.2 seconds while maintaining reliable locking during the sustained engaged state through continuous spring pressure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs dynamic elements including a spring-loaded locking bar element that can rapidly accelerate between positions, and an electric actuator capable of high-speed rotational movement. The system transitions from static locking to dynamic switching, using controlled motion and elastic energy storage/release to achieve fast state changes while maintaining stable locked positions through balanced forces.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The locking device achieves fast switching between engaged and disengaged states in less than 0.2 seconds, reduces installation space, and simplifies assembly, while providing safety functions during pyrolytic cleaning and preventing child access during normal operation.
Implementation Method 1
a first spring element interconnected between the locking hook element and the main body, and the first spring element effects a movement of the locking hook element from the disengaged position to the engaged position
Implementation Method 2
an electric actuator arranged in and/or at the main body and mechanically connected or connectable to the locking hook element, the electric actuator effects the pivoting of the locking hook element from the engaged position to the disengaged position
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a locking device (10) for a door of a domestic appliance. The locking device (10) comprises a main body (12) and a locking hook element (14) supported pivoting in and/or at the main body (12). The locking hook element (14) is pivoting between an engaged position and a disengaged position. The locking hook element (14) is engageable with and disengageable from a corresponding counterpart (40). The locking device (10) comprises an electric actuator (22) arranged in and/or at the main body (12) and mechanically connected or connectable to the locking hook element (14). The electric actuator (22) effects the pivoting of the locking hook element (14) from the engaged position to the disengaged position. The locking device (10) comprises a first spring element (26) interconnected between the locking hook element (14) and the main body (10), wherein said first spring element (26) effects a movement of the locking hook element (14) from the disengaged position to the engaged position.