Freestanding electric range
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Solution Overview
Problem
Electric ranges are prone to moisture and hot air circulation issues when placed near dishwashers, leading to component deterioration and reduced performance due to the inflow of moisture and circulatory hot air, which causes overheating and frequent operation stops.
Innovation Solution
A freestanding electric range with a guide panel and air guide system that blocks moisture and hot air circulation by redirecting air flows laterally and using a damper to prevent re-circulation, improving the structural design to prevent moisture and hot air from entering the device.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If the electric range is disposed right on a dishwasher, then space utilization is improved, but moisture discharged from the dishwasher can flow into the electric cooking appliance through the lower portion, causing component deterioration
Solution Approach 1:
The lower portion of the electric range is segmented into multiple openings (first opening at front, second opening at rear) rather than a single large opening. This segmentation allows for targeted protection measures at different locations, blocking moisture ingress while preserving adequate ventilation for heat dissipation, thus resolving the conflict between space utilization and component durability
Solution Approach 2:
A moisture blocking structure (such as a baffle or shield) is introduced as an intermediary element between the dishwasher and the electric range openings. This intermediary blocks moisture discharged from the dishwasher from reaching the internal components through the lower openings, while still allowing the range to be disposed directly on the dishwasher for space efficiency
2Reliability
If a shielding structure blocking reverse flow of air is disposed near the opening of air passage, then hot air reverse flow into heating unit is protected, but moisture outside the heating device is likely to flow into the heating device through the opening of air passage
Solution Approach 1:
The air passage opening is divided into multiple separate openings (front opening and rear opening) rather than a single large opening. This segmentation allows the shielding structure to protect against hot air reverse flow while moisture blocking structures can be strategically positioned to prevent moisture ingress through specific openings, addressing both protective needs simultaneously
Solution Approach 2:
Different regions of the air passage opening are provided with different protective qualities: the shielding structure is positioned to block hot air reverse flow, while moisture blocking structures are positioned at openings most susceptible to moisture ingress. This localized protection strategy allows each opening to be optimized for its specific threats, resolving the contradiction between protecting against hot air and preventing moisture ingress
3Temperature
If the electric range is provided with air inlet and air outlet for cooling heat generating element, then heat dissipation is improved, but hot air discharged through outlet can flow into air blowing fan again through inlet, causing circulatory flow that heats heat generating element rapidly and reduces operation time
Solution Approach 1:
The air inlet and air outlet are segmented into multiple separate openings positioned at different locations. The inlet openings are positioned to draw cool air from areas not affected by discharged hot air, while outlet openings discharge hot air away from the inlet paths. This spatial segmentation prevents hot air from circulating back to the fan and inlet, maintaining effective heat dissipation and extending operation time
Solution Approach 2:
The air flow paths are arranged in different spatial dimensions and directions. Inlet openings are positioned to draw air from certain directions while outlet openings discharge air in different directions, creating three-dimensional air flow separation. This dimensional separation prevents the formation of circulatory hot air flows, maintaining heat dissipation efficiency and extending operational duration
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 effectively reduces the risk of component failure and extends the operational time of the electric range by blocking moisture and hot air circulation, enhancing its performance and durability.
Implementation Method 1
an air guide which covers the heat sink and forms a flow path of air cooling the heat sink, and an air blowing fan that forces air to flow to the air guide
Implementation Method 2
a heat sink on which a heat generating element is mounted
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~5
Figure 6~7
AI summary
An electric range in one embodiment may comprise a case, a bracket being accommodated in the case, an air blowing fan being disposed in the bracket, a leg being coupled to a lower portion of the case, and being provided to contact an upper surface of a countertop that supports the electric range, and a guide panel being disposed at a lower side of the bracket, and guiding air that flows in a gap formed by the leg.