Over-the-range microwave lighting assembly with adjustable LED mount
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Solution Overview
Problem
Over-the-range microwave appliances face challenges in positioning lighting systems due to ventilation system obstructions and kitchen cabinet limitations, which restrict effective illumination and ventilation.
Innovation Solution
The integration of a lighting system within the over-the-range microwave appliance, featuring a circuit board with LEDs, a diffuser, and a mount structure that allows for adjustable positioning between a deflector and the cabinet front wall, ensuring illumination without obstructing ventilation openings.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If a lighting system is positioned in the OTR microwave appliance, then illumination intensity is improved, but it may obstruct ventilation openings
Solution Approach 1:
The lighting system is positioned in the transverse dimension at the front wall rather than in the vertical path of ventilation airflow. The circuit board with LEDs is mounted on the front wall surface, extending laterally to provide illumination without blocking the vertical ventilation opening, thus resolving the conflict between lighting placement and ventilation flow.
Solution Approach 2:
The lighting system is localized to specific areas (cabinet openings or front wall regions) rather than occupying the entire ventilation path. By positioning LEDs at specific locations on the front wall or within cabinet openings, the patent provides targeted illumination while leaving the ventilation opening clear for airflow.
2Stability of the object's composition
If kitchen cabinets are positioned to support the microwave, then structural stability is improved, but positioning flexibility for lighting systems is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The front wall of the microwave cabinet serves multiple functions: it provides structural support for the microwave, acts as a mounting surface for the lighting system, and maintains the ventilation opening. By utilizing the front wall surface area for LED mounting, the patent achieves lighting functionality without compromising the structural or ventilation roles of the cabinet.
3Productivity
If ventilation openings are maintained for airflow, then ventilation efficiency is improved, but available space for lighting components is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The lighting system is segmented into discrete LED components mounted on a circuit board, which is then positioned on the front wall surface surrounding the ventilation opening. This segmentation allows the lighting components to occupy the non-ventilation areas of the front wall, maximizing space utilization without interfering with the ventilation opening or airflow path.
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 configuration enhances kitchen illumination while maintaining unobstructed ventilation, providing customizable lighting options and improved visibility without compromising the appliance's functionality.
Implementation Method 1
The lighting system includes a circuit board at which a light-emitting diode (LED) is operably coupled
Implementation Method 2
The lighting system includes a diffuser coupled to the circuit board and positioned around the LED
Data Source
AI summary
A microwave appliance is provided, including a cabinet including a plurality of walls forming a cooking chamber, wherein a plurality of cabinet openings is formed at a front wall. A door is positioned adjacent to the front wall when in a closed position. A lighting system is positioned at one or more of the plurality of cabinet openings. The lighting system includes a circuit board at which a light-emitting diode (LED) is operably coupled. The lighting system includes a diffuser coupled to the circuit board and positioned around the LED. The LED is positioned in adjacent arrangement along the circuit board. The circuit board is positioned on a mount structure configured to attach to the front wall of the cabinet.