Knob assembly with a display device and appliance having the same
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Solution Overview
Problem
Complex cooking appliances with multiple heat sources and timers often have a cluttered front surface, making it difficult for users to intuitively recognize the functions of various knobs and switches, leading to decreased convenience and a compromised appearance.
Innovation Solution
A knob assembly with a rotating knob and independently rotating knob ring, featuring magnetic sensing technology using Hall sensors to detect position changes without contact, which simplifies the user interface by integrating heating power and timer controls into a unified, aesthetically pleasing design.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple knobs and manipulation switches are installed in the manipulation part to control heating power and timer functions, then the appliance can perform multiple cooking functions, but the front surface becomes cluttered and difficult to recognize
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple manipulation functions (heating power control and timer control) into a single integrated knob assembly. The knob body controls heating power while the knob ring controls timer functions, merging what would traditionally be separate controls into one unified interface, thereby simplifying the front surface while maintaining full functionality
Solution Approach 2:
The single knob assembly serves multiple functions: the knob body adjusts heating power levels, the knob ring sets timer duration, and both can operate independently or in combination. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate controls for each function, reducing clutter while preserving adaptability
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate manipulation switches are installed for heating power and timer control, then each function can be controlled independently, but the number of components and assembly processes increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple separate manipulation switches into a single integrated knob assembly where the knob body and knob ring are combined but can rotate independently. This reduces the component count from multiple separate switches to one unified assembly while maintaining independent control capability for each function
Solution Approach 2:
The knob ring is nested around the knob body, with both components capable of independent rotation. The sensing parts are similarly nested, with the second sensing part positioned around the first sensing part. This nested configuration allows multiple functions to be integrated into a compact single assembly rather than requiring separate distributed components
3Reliability
If traditional contact-based sensing mechanisms are used for detecting knob rotation, then the sensing function can be implemented, but the number of components and manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional contact-based mechanical sensing mechanisms with Hall sensors that detect rotation through magnetic field changes. The first sensing target and second sensing target use magnetic properties to interact with the Hall sensors without physical contact, eliminating the need for complex mechanical linkages, contact points, and associated components while maintaining reliable sensing function
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces magnetic fields as an intermediary between the rotating components (knob, knob ring) and the sensing mechanism. The first sensing target and second sensing target modulate magnetic fields that are detected by Hall sensors, providing a non-contact interface that simplifies the sensing system while maintaining functional reliability
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 user convenience by simplifying the manipulation of heating power and timer functions, reduces the number of components and assembly processes, and improves the appearance of the appliance's front surface while maintaining effective operation.
Implementation Method 1
a first rotation sensing part configured to sense rotation of the adjusting shaft, wherein a magnetic member which generates magnetic force is provided in the first sensing target, and the first rotation sensing part includes a Hall sensor configured to sense the magnetic force within a distance from the first rotation sensing part
Data Source
AI summary
A knob assembly includes a knob located at a front panel of the knob assembly and configured to rotate about an axis, a knob ring that is located at the front panel, that surrounds the knob, and that rotates about the axis independently of rotation of the knob, an adjusting shaft that extends from the knob through the knob ring in a direction rearward of the front panel and that rotates based on rotation of the knob and causes operation of a device, a first rotation sensing part that senses rotation of the adjusting shaft, and a first sensing target that rotates based on rotation of the adjusting shaft. A position of the first sensing target changes based on rotation of the first sensing target, and the first rotation sensing part senses at least one of the position or a change of the position of the first sensing target.