Door-lock device for household appliance, in particular dishwashers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing door-lock devices for appliances, such as dishwashers, face issues with complexity, compactness, reliance on unreliable helical springs, and the need for a bistable floating mechanism.
Innovation Solution
A door-lock device featuring a lock wheel with radially protruding locking arms and a hub with retention surfaces, utilizing compression springs for reliable locking and unlocking, and an integrated door detection system for automatic signaling, eliminating the need for a bistable floating mechanism and reducing component count.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If helical springs under traction are used to hold the lock element in set positions, then the locking function is achieved, but the duration and reliability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the type of elastic means from helical springs under traction to compression springs, altering the mechanical parameter of spring configuration. This parameter change improves reliability and duration by using compression springs that maintain better characteristics over time and under operational conditions.
2Ease of operation
If a floating mechanism is used to rearrange the lock element after door opening, then the lock element can be reset, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the resetting function into the existing spring mechanism and lock element design, eliminating the need for a separate floating mechanism. The compression springs and lock element work together to automatically reset the lock position after door opening, reducing overall device complexity while maintaining operational ease.
3Reliability
If multiple components are used in the door-lock device, then the locking function is comprehensive, but the compactness deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple components into an integrated assembly where the lock element, compression springs, and retention elements work together in a compact configuration. The support frame integrates multiple functions, and the lock element serves both locking and resetting functions, reducing the overall volume while maintaining comprehensive locking capability.
4Stability of the object's composition
If helical springs under traction are used to hold the lock element, then the locking position is maintained, but the reliability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the spring configuration parameter from traction-type helical springs to compression springs. This parameter change improves reliability because compression springs maintain better structural integrity and consistent force characteristics over time, while still maintaining stable lock positions through the retention elements and cam surface interaction.
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 provides a more compact, reliable, and efficient door-lock mechanism with reduced component count, utilizing compression springs for enhanced durability and automatic door status signaling, improving both locking and unlocking reliability.
Implementation Method 1
The door-lock device comprises at least one retention element movable with reference to the support in a direction that is orthogonal with respect to the axis of rotation A and at least one compression spring, under compression, which press the retention elements against the hub (36)
Data Source
AI summary
A door-lock device for appliances, such as dishwashers, is provided. The door-lock device includes a support, and a lock wheel rotationally carried by the support around an axis of rotation. The lock wheel includes a hub and a plurality of locking arms that radially protrude from the hub. The hub may include a plurality of retention surfaces, and at least one retention element. The at least one retention element may be elastically pressed into contact with the hub to hold the lock wheel in a plurality of locking positions.