Program Selector Integrating Start-Stop Buttons
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Solution Overview
Problem
The user interface of domestic appliances like washing machines is complex due to the combination of rotary knobs, buttons, and electromechanical components, making it difficult for users to understand how to control and set the appliance effectively.
Innovation Solution
A program selector with a rotating knob and integrated start/stop buttons, featuring stiff guidance and minimized wobbling, is designed to simplify the user interface by combining the main functions of selection, start, and stop within the knob, saving space on the control panel and enhancing the touch and feel experience.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If multiple separate controls (rotary knob, start button, stop button) are used on the control panel, then each function can be independently operated, but the user interface becomes complex and difficult to understand
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the rotary knob for program selection with integrated start and stop buttons into a single unified control element. This merging of previously separate controls (knob, start button, stop button) into one integrated program selector reduces the number of discrete components on the control panel, simplifying the user interface while maintaining all necessary functions.
Solution Approach 2:
The program selector is designed as a multi-functional device that performs multiple operations: program selection through rotation, start function through one button, and stop function through another button. This universal control element replaces what would traditionally require three separate controls, reducing overall device complexity while preserving ease of operation for all functions.
2Adaptability or versatility
If separate buttons for start and stop functions are added to the control panel, then complete control functionality is achieved, but space on the control panel is consumed
Solution Approach 1:
The start and stop buttons are integrated within the program selector assembly rather than being separate elements on the control panel. This spatial merging allows complete control functionality (program selection + start + stop) to be achieved within a compact footprint, significantly reducing the area occupied on the control panel compared to having separate controls.
Solution Approach 2:
The buttons are nested within the program selector structure, with the start and stop buttons positioned inside or within the same housing as the rotary knob mechanism. This nesting arrangement allows multiple functions to coexist in a compact space, maintaining versatility while minimizing the control panel area required.
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 clear and understandable user interface, simplifying the operation of washing machines by integrating essential functions within the program selector, improving usability and reducing complexity on the control panel.
Implementation Method 1
a helical compression spring (28) whose function is to urge the piston elements (26) towards the inside surface of the internal ring (18)
Implementation Method 2
Wheels (32) have a rubber co-moulded tread portion (32a) in order to reduce noise when wheels (32) roll on the toothed surface (30)
Data Source
Figure 1~3
Figure 4~8
AI summary
A program selector for a domestic appliance, particularly for a washing or dishwashing machine, comprises a rotating knob for the manual selection of the washing programme or the like. The selector comprises a cylindrical support structure adapted to be fixed to a control board of the domestic appliance and around which such knob is rotatably mounted. The cylindrical support structure has longitudinal seats in which are slidably mounted two button-shaped elements which are adapted to be independently pushed by the user, particularly for switching on and off the appliance.