Latch module, a hinge module and an appliance using the same
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cooking devices face challenges in incorporating a secure lock function for self-cleaning with a separate automatic opening function while also allowing manual opening and closing, leading to increased components, production costs, and complexity, which complicates door control and may result in accidental door opening during initialization.
Innovation Solution
A latch module that integrates manual lock, secure lock, and automatic opening functions using a single latch with one drive source and power transmission structure, employing kinematic interference between components to control the latch's position and prevent accidental opening during initialization.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a secure lock function and an automatic opening function are incorporated into a door control module, then the safety function is improved, but the device complexity increases and the number of components increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the secure lock function and the automatic opening function into a single integrated door control module. The module includes a drive mechanism that can operate a latch in multiple ways: engaging the latch with the door for secure locking during self-cleaning, and releasing the latch for automatic opening. This merging eliminates the need for separate modules for each function, reducing overall device complexity while maintaining both safety and automation capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The door control module is designed as a multi-functional device that can perform secure locking, automatic opening, and manual opening/closing operations. The single module incorporates a drive mechanism with multiple operating modes that can adapt to different functional requirements, making the module universal enough to handle various door control scenarios without requiring additional specialized components.
2Device complexity
If multiple functions are incorporated into a door control module, then the number of components is reduced, but the drive control becomes complicated and more switches are needed
Solution Approach 1:
The latch mechanism is designed with dynamic characteristics that allow it to respond differently based on the forces applied. The elastic body provides a restoring force that enables the latch to return to its engaged position after being released. This dynamic behavior reduces the need for complex control switches, as the system can detect latch position and state through the mechanical properties of the elastic body and latch engagement rather than requiring multiple electronic switches.
3Ease of operation
If a door control module is initialized without a proper initialization structure, then the module can be operated, but the door may accidentally open automatically during initialization
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates an initialization structure that performs preliminary actions to ensure the latch is in the correct engaged position with the door before the cooking device begins operation. This preliminary engagement of the latch with the door during initialization prevents accidental automatic opening from occurring, as the latch is already secured in the locked position and will require intentional release through the control system before the door can open.
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 simplifies the door control system, reduces the number of switches needed, and ensures reliable safety functions, preventing accidental door opening during initialization and maintaining the cooking device's operational integrity.
Implementation Method 1
an elastic body that moves the latch to rotate in a first direction
Data Source
AI summary
A latch module includes a latch including a hook for engaging with a pin, a spring that applies a force to move the latch in a first direction; and a motor to pivot the latch. The hook is opened at a front end toward the first direction that opens to an engaging surface provided in the hook for engaging with the pin and the engaging surface includes a disengaging inclined surface that is disposed at a front end portion of the hook and a secure lock surface that is disposed behind the disengaging inclined surface. The disengaging inclined surface has an inclined surface inclined in the first direction and the secure lock surface has an inclined surface inclined in a second direction opposite the first direction. In a first basic position of the latch, the disengaging inclined surface of the hook is positioned to engage with the pin. In a second basic position of the latch, the engaging surface of the hook is positioned to release the pin. In a third basic position of the latch, the secure lock surface of the hook is positioned to engage with the pin.