Appliance Knock Input Detection Using Vibration Transfer Member
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing appliances with see-through doors face challenges in accurately sensing knock inputs due to high-temperature environments, limited sensor installation options, and complex design requirements, leading to operational errors and reduced accuracy.
Innovation Solution
The appliance incorporates a transfer member connecting an input switch near the door to a sensor at the rear of the main body, with a first sensing module at the cavity edge and a second module above the accommodation space, allowing for accurate vibration transfer and knock input detection without being affected by heat or other vibrations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a sensor is installed near the door to detect knock inputs, then knock detection accuracy is improved, but the sensor is affected by high temperatures causing operational errors
Solution Approach 1:
The appliance is divided into two functional modules: a knock sensing module installed away from the door in a temperature-safe zone, and a door vibration module installed on the door itself. This segmentation allows the sensor to operate in a safe thermal environment while still detecting door knocks through the transfer member that transmits vibrations from the door to the sensor.
Solution Approach 2:
A transfer member is introduced as an intermediary element connecting the door to the sensor. This transfer member transmits vibrations caused by knock inputs on the door to the sensor, enabling the sensor to detect knocks without being installed directly on or near the door, thus avoiding high-temperature exposure.
2Reliability
If the sensor is installed far from the door to avoid heat, then sensor reliability is improved, but knock input detection accuracy deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The transfer member serves as a mechanical intermediary that bridges the distance between the door and the sensor. It efficiently transmits vibration energy from the door surface to the sensor, allowing the sensor to be positioned far from the door for thermal safety while maintaining detection accuracy through the intermediary's vibration transmission capability.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple manipulation switches are added to control various functions including light, then functionality is improved, but device complexity and ease of operation deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The appliance employs a knock detection function that automatically triggers light activation without requiring manual switch operation. The system serves itself by detecting the user's knock input and autonomously controlling the light, eliminating the need for separate manipulation switches for common functions and reducing overall device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The knock detection mechanism serves multiple functions: it detects door knocks, activates the light, and can potentially control other appliance functions. This multi-functionality consolidates what would otherwise require multiple separate manipulation switches into a single unified input mechanism, simplifying the user interface.
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
This configuration enables precise knock input sensing, reduces operational errors, and maintains sensor accuracy by isolating it from high temperatures, while allowing for efficient vibration transfer and door closure detection.
Implementation Method 1
a transfer member that connects to the input switch and transfers vibrations caused by a knock to a sensor disposed at the rear of the main body
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to an appliance having an input switch that receives a knock input at the front of a main body, and a transfer member connecting to the input switch that transfers vibrations caused by the knock to a sensor disposed at the rear of the main body.