Nested Control Link Oven Hinge for Compact Installation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing hinge assemblies for appliances like ovens lack a compact design for confined spaces, are not cost-effective, and do not provide the desired feel characteristics for user experience in terms of door opening and closing.
Innovation Solution
A hinge assembly with a base and door mounting arm, a control link subassembly including a control link and spring-arm, and a biasing spring that adjusts door-closing force by altering contact locations, allowing for compact installation, cost-effectiveness, and improved user experience.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If a traditional hinge assembly design is used, then the structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but it occupies excessive space and cannot be installed in confined areas
Solution Approach 1:
The control link is received within a recess of the door mounting arm, creating a nested configuration where one component is housed inside another. This nesting arrangement significantly reduces the overall volume of the hinge assembly while maintaining all necessary functional components, enabling installation in confined spaces without compromising manufacturing simplicity
Solution Approach 2:
The control link pivot point is positioned offset from the door mounting arm pivot axis, creating a multi-dimensional linkage mechanism. This dimensional arrangement allows the hinge to achieve the required door-closing force while occupying less linear space, effectively reducing the hinge assembly volume without complicating the manufacturing process
2Volume of moving object
If a compact hinge design is implemented, then space is saved for installation, but the door-closing force and feel characteristics deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The control link is designed to pivot relative to the door mounting arm, creating a dynamic linkage that adjusts the mechanical advantage throughout the door's range of motion. This dynamic configuration maintains effective door-closing force while allowing the hinge to occupy less space, as the force is optimized through motion rather than requiring a large static structure
Solution Approach 2:
The control link subassembly merges multiple functions into a single integrated component structure. The control link simultaneously provides the closing force mechanism, the positioning function, and the space-saving nesting within the door mounting arm recess, thereby maintaining door-closing force while reducing overall hinge volume
3Adaptability or versatility
If existing hinge assemblies are used, then installation is straightforward, but they lack adjustability for optimal door-closing force and user experience
Solution Approach 1:
The control link is pre-configured with a specific pivot point location relative to the door mounting arm pivot axis. This preliminary geometric arrangement is designed to provide the optimal mechanical advantage and door-closing force characteristics without requiring additional adjustment mechanisms, thereby achieving adaptability while maintaining simplicity in the hinge assembly design
Solution Approach 2:
The control link subassembly serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides the door-closing force, positions the door during opening/closing motion, and enables compact nesting within the door mounting arm. This multi-functionality achieves adaptability for various door configurations without increasing device complexity, as a single integrated subassembly handles all these roles
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 provides a durable, cost-effective, and easily repairable hinge assembly that enhances user experience by adjusting door-closing force and feel, while accommodating compact designs for confined spaces.
Implementation Method 1
a spring engaged with the spring-arm and exerting a biasing force on the spring-arm that urges said spring-arm toward its extended position
Data Source
AI summary
An appliance hinge includes a control link subassembly operably connected between a base and a door mounting arm. The control link subassembly includes a control link with a first end pivotally connected to the door mounting arm and a second end spaced from the first end. The control link subassembly also includes a spring-arm including an outer end pivotally connected to the second end of the control link and an inner end engaged with the base and adapted for both pivoting and sliding movement relative to the base. The control link subassembly also includes a spring engaged with the spring-arm and exerting a biasing force on the spring-arm that urges said spring-arm toward its extended position. The spring-arm selectively moveable toward a retracted position. The hinge assembly further includes a link controller connected to the base. The spring biases the control link into abutment with the link controller.