Oven Door Hinge Sensor Module for Hidden State Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing oven door opening/closing detection systems compromise aesthetics and are difficult to service due to protruding components and internal micro-switch placement, leading to potential damage and serviceability issues.
Innovation Solution
A sensor module is integrated into the cooking appliance's body through a lateral wall, using a sensor bracket with connection portions and a reinforcing rib, allowing it to contact the hinge mechanism without protruding externally, and featuring a cover to prevent wear and enhance operational reliability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the rod protrudes outward to detect door opening/closing state, then the detection function is achieved, but the aesthetic appearance deteriorates and the rod may be damaged
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor module is nested within the body of the cooking appliance, with only the necessary sensing elements extending into the cooking chamber. The sensor module housing is received within the body, creating a nested structure that maintains aesthetic appearance while enabling detection functionality through the hinge mechanism contact.
2Device complexity
If the micro-switch is located inside the base plate and front plate, then the detection function is integrated, but the serviceability deteriorates as the micro-switch cannot be easily replaced
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor module is segmented as a separate, detachable unit from the main body of the cooking appliance. This segmentation allows the sensor module to be independently removed and replaced without disassembling the entire appliance, significantly improving serviceability while maintaining functional integration.
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor module is extracted as a separate serviceable component that can be removed from the body. The sensor module includes the sensor, operation bar, and housing as an integrated sub-assembly that can be taken out for replacement or maintenance without affecting the main appliance structure.
3Shape
If the sensor module is completely inside the body, then aesthetics are maintained, but the contact with hinge mechanism becomes unreliable
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor module has different spatial zones with different functions: the housing and mounting portions remain within the body for aesthetic purposes, while the operation bar and sensing elements extend into the cooking chamber to reliably contact the hinge mechanism. This local differentiation of quality maintains both appearance and functionality.
Data Source
Figure 1
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AI summary
The cooking appliance includes a body having a cooking chamber, a door connected to the body by a hinge mechanism to open or close the cooking chamber, and a sensor module inserted into or withdrawn from the body through a wall of the body and configured to come into contact with or be spaced apart from the hinge mechanism according to opening and closing of the door.