Integrated Hinge Connection for Single-Step Appliance Door Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing connections for hinges in electrical appliances, such as ovens, require multiple separate steps and operator intervention for assembly, increasing production costs due to the need for separate hooking elements like rivets.
Innovation Solution
A box-shaped connection for hinges with integrated guide and stop elements, allowing for single-step assembly by using screws inserted into the connection itself, eliminating the need for additional assembly operations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If rivets are inserted into pre-drilled holes in sheet metal to form hooking elements, then the hinge connection achieves reliable mechanical fastening, but the production process requires multiple separate operating steps and operator intervention, increasing production costs
Solution Approach 1:
The hooking elements are merged with the connection body itself. The connection is formed from a single piece of sheet metal where the hooking elements are integral parts of the structure, eliminating the need for separate rivets and pre-drilled holes. This merging reduces the number of assembly steps while maintaining the mechanical fastening function.
Solution Approach 2:
The sheet metal connection performs multiple functions: it provides the structural housing for the hinge, forms the hooking elements for fastening, and creates the necessary geometric features all in a single formed piece. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate components like rivets and pre-drilled holes.
2Reliability
If multiple separate operating steps are used to create holes and insert rivets, then the hinge connection achieves secure assembly, but the production time and operator intervention increase, reducing productivity
Solution Approach 1:
The hooking elements are formed as integral parts of the connection during the initial forming process, before any assembly operations. The sheet metal is shaped to include the hooking elements as built-in features, eliminating the need for subsequent drilling and riveting operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The formation of the connection housing and the hooking elements are combined into a single forming operation. The sheet metal is shaped to simultaneously create both the structural housing and the fastening features, reducing multiple steps to one operation.
Data Source
AI summary
A connection for hinges of the type having two elements which can rotate relative to one another; the connection comprises a box-shaped body having a base wall and two parallel lateral walls, and can be stably connected to a fixed frame of an electrical appliance.