Appliance having sensor module to detect vibrations
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing appliances with see-through doors face challenges in accurately sensing knock inputs due to high temperatures, limited sensor installation locations, and complex door designs, leading to operational errors and reduced sensitivity, especially in environments with multiple ovens or high-temperature conditions.
Innovation Solution
A sensor assembly is installed on the cabinet, utilizing a three-axis acceleration sensor to detect vibrations and distinguish between knock inputs and other vibrations, with vibration absorption members to dampen unwanted vibrations, and a block diagram for controlling multiple ovens independently.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a sensor is installed on the door to detect knock inputs, then knock detection function is enabled, but sensor accuracy deteriorates due to high temperatures and limited installation locations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a knock transfer member (such as a knock transfer rod or knock transfer plate) as an intermediary element that transfers vibrations from the door to the sensor. This mediator allows the sensor to be installed in a location away from the high-temperature door surface while still detecting knock inputs accurately, thus resolving the contradiction between enabling knock detection and maintaining sensor accuracy in high-temperature environments.
2Measurement precision
If multiple sensors are installed to improve detection accuracy, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the detection function by using a single sensor combined with a knock transfer member that directs vibrations from multiple door areas to one detection point. This segmentation approach maintains detection accuracy equivalent to multiple sensors while avoiding the complexity of installing and coordinating multiple sensor units.
3Measurement precision
If the sensor is placed close to the door for better vibration detection, then measurement precision is improved, but the sensor is affected by high temperatures
Solution Approach 1:
The knock transfer member serves as a thermal and mechanical intermediary, conducting vibrations from the door while isolating the sensor from direct thermal exposure. This allows the sensor to be positioned closer to the door for better vibration detection without suffering from high-temperature damage.
4Reliability
If vibration absorption members are added to reduce false detections, then reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the vibration absorption function with the existing knock transfer structure by integrating damping elements into the knock transfer member or its mounting arrangement. This combination approach reduces false detections and improves reliability without adding separate, complex vibration absorption assemblies.
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 solution enhances the accuracy of knock input detection, reduces operational errors, and allows for independent control of multiple ovens, while maintaining sensor performance in high-temperature environments.
Implementation Method 1
utilizing a three-axis acceleration sensor to detect vibrations
Implementation Method 2
vibration absorption members to dampen unwanted vibrations
Data Source
AI summary
In an appliance, an input switch receives a knock input at the front of a main body, and a transfer member connecting to the input switch transfers vibrations cause by the knock to a sensor disposed at the rear of the main body. Thus, even an appliance such as an oven and the like that makes it difficult to attach a sensor to a door due to high-temperature heat effectively senses a knock input.