Automatic opening device
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing automatic door opening systems in household appliances are bulky, complex, costly, noisy, and lack reliable emergency release mechanisms, compromising space efficiency, reliability, and user experience.
Innovation Solution
An automatic opening device with a containment casing, electric motor, actuator member, and transmission assembly using reducers and worm screws, featuring a safety mechanism to prevent reverse motion and silent operation, reducing components and noise.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If DC motors or solenoids are used to drive the automatic opening mechanism, then the door opening function is effective, but the system complexity increases and requires expensive sensors for positional feedback
Solution Approach 1:
The mechanism uses the door's own weight and the cam profile to automatically return the door to the closed position without requiring motors or sensors. The cam mechanism converts the linear motion of the actuator into rotational motion that opens the door, while the door's gravity naturally closes it, creating a self-service system.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention extracts and eliminates the complex motor and sensor components from the system, replacing them with a purely mechanical cam-based actuation system that achieves the same door opening function with significantly reduced complexity.
2Reliability
If DC motors or solenoids are used for the automatic opening mechanism, then the door can be opened automatically, but the physical bulk inside the appliance increases, reducing space for other components
Solution Approach 1:
The mechanism uses the door's own weight and the cam profile to automatically return the door to the closed position without requiring motors or sensors. The cam mechanism converts the linear motion of the actuator into rotational motion that opens the door, while the door's gravity naturally closes it, creating a self-service system.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention extracts and eliminates the complex motor and sensor components from the system, replacing them with a purely mechanical cam-based actuation system that achieves the same door opening function with significantly reduced complexity.
3Reliability
If the operating mechanism is made irreversible to ensure the door remains in the desired open position, then reliability is improved, but the ability to manually release the system in emergencies is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The cam mechanism is designed with a specific profile that provides stable positioning during normal operation but includes a designated release zone where the cam can be manually pushed back along its profile. This dynamic design allows the system to switch between stable (normal operation) and reversible (emergency release) states as needed.
4Reliability
If traditional actuation mechanisms are used, then the door opening function is achieved, but significant noise is generated during operation
Solution Approach 1:
The cam profile is designed to minimize impact and vibration during operation. By using a smooth cam curve instead of abrupt mechanical engagement, the system reduces noise-generating vibrations and impacts while still achieving reliable door opening through the controlled conversion of linear to rotational motion.
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 device optimizes space, simplifies layout, reduces noise, and enhances reliability by minimizing components and providing silent operation with reversible safety features.
Implementation Method 1
a first worm screw (45), engaged with said second reducer (43), and a second worm screw (46), engaged with said first worm screw (45) and keyed to said electric motor (3)
Implementation Method 2
an electric motor (3), capable of rotating in the direction of rotation or in the opposite direction of rotation
Data Source
Figure 1~5
AI summary
The present invention concerns an automatic opening device (1) of a door, such as a door of household appliances, such as washing machines, dishwashers, ovens, and the like, comprising a containment casing (11), an electric motor (3), capable of rotating in the direction of rotation or in the opposite direction of rotation, an actuator member (2), having a rack (21), and a transmission assembly (4), coupled to said electric motor (3) and engaged with said rack (21) of said actuator member (2).