Control Panel Backing Plate Assembly with Integrated Securing Tabs
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing control panel assemblies for appliances, such as cooktops, are costly and complex due to the use of expensive glass panels and numerous parts required for securement, which demands tight manufacturing tolerances and processes.
Innovation Solution
A control panel assembly featuring a backing plate with securing tabs and spring tabs that securely attach to a control panel frame, reducing the need for precise alignment and expensive fasteners, allowing for variations in manufacturing processes while maintaining a high-quality fit, feel, and finish.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If glass panels and metal brackets with fasteners are used to secure the control panel assembly, then the structural strength and stability are improved, but the manufacturing cost and device complexity increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the glass panel and metal bracket components from the traditional control panel assembly, retaining only the essential functional elements. This extraction eliminates the need for complex fastening systems while maintaining structural integrity through the controller housing design itself.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent integrates the mounting functions directly into the controller housing structure, combining what were previously separate components (housing, brackets, and fasteners) into a unified design. The housing itself provides the mounting features, eliminating the need for additional securing parts.
2Reliability
If metal brackets and fasteners are used to secure the glass panel, then the reliability of the control panel assembly is improved, but the manufacturing precision requirements and production time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The controller housing is designed with self-contained mounting features that perform both structural support and securing functions. The housing structure itself provides the mounting features, eliminating the need for separate brackets and fasteners that would require precise alignment and assembly.
3Stability of the object's composition
If multiple parts are used to secure the control panel assembly, then the structural stability is improved, but the manufacturing cost and assembly complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple separate components (brackets, fasteners, mounting hardware) into the unified controller housing structure. This merging reduces the total part count while maintaining assembly stability through integrated mounting features built into the housing design.
Solution Approach 2:
The controller housing serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides structural support, houses the control elements, and incorporates mounting features for securing the assembly. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for dedicated separate mounting components.
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 simplifies the manufacturing process, reduces costs by minimizing the number of parts, and enhances the assembly's robustness and appearance without compromising quality, as the securing and spring tabs provide a reliable interference fit and compression support.
Implementation Method 1
the backing plate further includes a plurality of spring tabs for securing the backing plate against the control panel frame
Data Source
AI summary
A control panel assembly for an appliance with features for securing a backing plate to a control panel frame to maintain a high quality fit, feel, and finish of the control panel assembly is provided. In particular, the backing plate includes a plurality of securing tabs for securing the backing plate against the control panel frame. The backing plate also may include a plurality of spring tabs for securing the backing plate against the control panel frame.