Detection circuit module for use in detecting an operational status of a household appliance door
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electric circuit modules for detecting the operational status of household appliance doors, such as washing machines and dryers, are prone to inaccuracies in door closed and locked state detection, leading to compromised appliance operation.
Innovation Solution
A detection circuit module with a diode arranged in series with the actuator and parallel to the door locking switch, along with a controller circuit module outputting electrical pulse signals, improves the accuracy and reliability of door status detection by utilizing digital operational states and reducing energy consumption.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a conventional electric circuit module is used for detecting door status, then the appliance can operate, but the detection accuracy of door closed and locked states is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The detection circuit is segmented into two independent switches: a door closing switch for detecting closed state and a door locking switch for detecting locked state. This segmentation allows each switch to be optimized for its specific detection function, improving overall detection accuracy and reliability
Solution Approach 2:
A diode is introduced as an intermediary component arranged in parallel with the door locking switch. This diode acts as a mediator to prevent false detection signals and ensure accurate distinction between door closed and locked states, thereby improving detection reliability
2Loss of energy
If traditional detection circuit configuration is used, then the circuit is simple, but energy consumption is high due to continuous monitoring
Solution Approach 1:
The controller outputs electrical pulse signals periodically to activate the detection circuit only when needed, rather than maintaining continuous power supply. This periodic activation significantly reduces energy consumption while maintaining reliable detection capability when the appliance needs to monitor door status
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 and energy efficiency of door status detection, reducing manufacturing complexity and cost while providing reliable operation of household appliances.
Implementation Method 1
a diode arranged in series with the actuator and the second connecting contact and said diode being arranged electrically in parallel with the door locking switch
Implementation Method 2
the electro-mechanical actuator may include a solenoid actuator
Data Source
AI summary
A detection circuit module for use with a household appliance door to detect when the door is closed and/or locked, the detection circuit module having a first and a second contact configured for electrical connection with the household appliance door so as to be operable with the household appliance door, the detection circuit module including: a door closing switch arranged electrically in series between the first connecting contact and an actuator; a door locking switch arranged electrically in series between the actuator member and the second connecting contact; and a diode arranged in series with the actuator and the second connecting contact and the diode being arranged electrically in parallel with the door locking switch.