Door-locking module for a door of a household appliance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing door-locking modules for household appliances are bulky, have limited compatibility with different appliance layouts, and require multiple components, making them inefficient and costly to produce.
Innovation Solution
A compact door-locking module using a printed circuit board (PCB) with actuators and a locking ring mechanism, including a cam guide and gear assembly, to accurately determine the position of the locking pin and improve compatibility across various appliance layouts.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional mechanical components are used in door-locking modules, then the door can be securely locked and unlocked, but the module occupies a large space and has limited compatibility with different appliance layouts
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the locking mechanism, position detection, and actuation functions into a single integrated door-locking module. The locking pin, actuator, and detection components are combined in one compact assembly that replaces traditional separate mechanical components, reducing overall module size while maintaining secure locking functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The door-locking module is designed with universal compatibility features that allow it to fit different appliance layouts. The module can determine locking pin position and provide actuation signals that work across various household appliance types, eliminating the need for appliance-specific modifications.
2Measurement precision
If multiple mechanical components are used to determine locking pin position, then the position can be detected, but the assembly occupies a large space and requires varying production equipment for different models
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical position detection systems with an integrated detection mechanism. The locking pin position is determined through a simplified detection system that provides actuation signals directly, eliminating the need for multiple separate mechanical sensors and switches while maintaining accurate position detection.
Solution Approach 2:
The detection function is merged into the main locking mechanism. The same components that provide mechanical locking also participate in position detection, eliminating separate detection subsystems and reducing overall device complexity.
3Reliability
If traditional door-locking modules are designed for specific appliance layouts, then they work reliably with that appliance, but modifications are required for different household appliances
Solution Approach 1:
The door-locking module incorporates universal design features that enable it to adapt to different appliance layouts. The module can determine locking pin position and provide appropriate actuation signals for various household appliance types without requiring model-specific modifications, achieving both reliability and versatility.
Data Source
AI summary
A door-locking module for a door of a household appliance includes a housing; a printed circuit board (PCB), received within the housing and further includes at least one first actuator switch adapted to open and close a predetermined first circuit of the PCB. A locking pin is configured to move between a locked position, affecting the door into a locked state, and an unlocked position, affecting the door into an unlocked state. An actuator is operably coupled to the locking pin so as to controllably move the locking pin between the unlocked position and the locked position. A locking ring is operably coupled between the actuator and the at least one first actuator switch and includes a trigger member adapted to operably engage with the signal actuator, and at least one cam guide adapted to cooperate with a corresponding cam follower of the locking pin.