Modular Door-Lock Architecture for Multi-Configuration Oven Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current door-lock systems for ovens are costly to manufacture due to the need for multiple types catering to different oven types, requiring specific molds and components, which increases production expenses.
Innovation Solution
A modular door-lock system with a single architecture that can function as both a top and bottom module, featuring a rotating hook mechanism and microswitches for secure engagement and detection, allowing easy assembly and adaptation to various oven types.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple types of door-lock devices are manufactured to adapt to different oven types, then adaptability is improved, but manufacturing cost increases due to multiple molds and components
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal door-lock device architecture that can function as both top and bottom modules. The containment casing is designed with a symmetric structure featuring two openings that can accommodate different engaging members (prong and security member configurations). This allows a single door-lock device design to serve multiple oven types and configurations, eliminating the need for separate molds and components for different door-lock variants, thereby reducing manufacturing costs while maintaining adaptability.
2Ease of manufacture
If a single modular door-lock architecture is used for different oven types, then manufacturing cost decreases, but device complexity increases due to need for configuration flexibility
Solution Approach 1:
The door-lock device is segmented into distinct functional components: a containment casing with two openings, a blocking group with a rotating hook, a blocking member, and a security detecting unit. Each component has a specific function and can be independently manufactured and assembled. The engaging member is also segmented into a prong and a security member. This segmentation allows for modular assembly where components are combined in different configurations (top module or bottom module) without requiring complex integrated designs, thereby reducing overall architectural complexity while maintaining manufacturing efficiency.
3Reliability
If different door-lock devices are designed for different oven types, then specific needs are met, but assembly time increases due to variety of components
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the functionality of top and bottom door-lock modules into a single universal containment casing design. The casing features two openings that can accommodate different engaging member configurations. The blocking group with rotating hook and blocking member is designed to work with either a prong-only engaging member or a prong-and-security-member engaging member. This merging of functionalities into a single modular design reduces the variety of components that need to be assembled, thereby reducing assembly time while maintaining the reliability required for different oven types.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a door-lock system (S) for a household appliance, in which said household appliance is of the type comprising a frame and a door hinged to said frame, and in which said lock-door system (S) comprises: an engaging member (2), which can be fixed to said door of said household appliance, and comprising a prong (22) and a security member (23) arranged substantially parallel to said prong (22); and a door lock device (1).The present invention also relates to an oven.