Integrated Microwave Oven Duct Module for Compact Wiring Layout
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Solution Overview
Problem
The complex distribution of electrical components in over-the-range microwave ovens leads to cumbersome installation processes, high manufacturing costs, and inefficient space usage due to the need for long wires and complicated interior configurations.
Innovation Solution
A compact design integrating electrical components into a duct module within the oven, featuring a duct unit with a modular layout that includes a power source, capacitor, noise filter, fuse, and humidity sensor, and an air discharge unit with impellers, which improves airflow efficiency and reduces assembly tolerance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If electrical components are distributed in different locations within the oven, then each component can be independently positioned, but the interior configuration becomes complicated and requires long wires
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple electrical components (power source, running capacitor, noise filter, fuse, humidity sensor) into a single integrated duct module. This consolidation eliminates the need for long wires and complex routing between distributed components, significantly simplifying the interior configuration while maintaining all necessary electrical functions.
Solution Approach 2:
The duct module serves multiple functions simultaneously: it acts as both the ventilation duct structure and the housing for all electrical components. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate component housings and wiring channels, reducing overall complexity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If electrical components are spaced apart and distributed, then each component has its own location, but long wires are required for electric connections
Solution Approach 1:
By consolidating all electrical components within the single duct module, the patent eliminates the need for long connecting wires between distributed components. All components are electrically connected through short internal connections within the compact module, dramatically reducing total wire length.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the duct unit has a distributed design, then components can be individually positioned, but the installation and assembling processes become lengthy and cumbersome
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines all electrical components and the duct structure into a single pre-assembled duct module. This modular design allows the entire assembly to be installed as one unit, dramatically reducing installation time and complexity compared to assembling multiple distributed components separately.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the microwave oven into distinct functional modules, with the duct module being a self-contained unit. This segmentation allows for simplified assembly where the pre-assembled duct module is installed as a single component rather than assembling multiple scattered parts.
4Ease of repair
If electrical components are distributed in different locations, then each component can be independently accessed, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent consolidates all electrical components into the duct module, which reduces manufacturing costs through economies of scale and simplified production processes. The modular design actually improves accessibility since the entire duct module can be removed and serviced as a single unit.
5Area of stationary object
If the oven has a distributed component layout, then each component has dedicated space, but the overall size of the oven increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges all electrical components into the compact duct module, which utilizes the existing duct space efficiently. This integration eliminates the need for additional space that would be required for separately housing distributed components, thereby reducing the overall oven volume.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent nests all electrical components within the duct module structure, effectively utilizing the internal space of the duct unit. This nesting arrangement allows components to be housed within the existing duct volume rather than requiring additional external space.
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
This design enhances ventilation efficiency, reduces assembly complexity, lowers manufacturing costs, and facilitates the development of more compact over-the-range microwave ovens with improved durability and space usage efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
The air discharge unit may include an air discharge motor, and one or more impellers
Data Source
AI summary
An over-the-range microwave oven that includes a duct unit configured to direct air from the back of the oven to the front and further includes an integrated duct module. The duct unit includes: a first panel at the bottom, a pair of second panels forming both lateral side surfaces of the duct unit. The integrated duct module is disposed on the first panel and integrates a plurality of electrical components, such as a power source unit, a running capacitor, a noise filter and a fuse.