Reed switch assembly and refrigerator
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Solution Overview
Problem
Reed sensors in refrigerator door switch assemblies are prone to damage due to external shocks and tensile forces, leading to poor productivity during assembly, as they are typically installed manually and vulnerable to tangling of reed wires.
Innovation Solution
A reed switch assembly design that includes a case with a seating part for a substrate assembly, a cover to protect the reed sensor, and side hooks for secure installation, allowing for automated assembly and reducing exposure to external shocks by removing the reed wire configuration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If the reed sensor is directly connected to the terminal via pressing, then the electrical connection is simplified, but the reed sensor is damaged when strong tensile force is applied to the reed wire
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a terminal structure as an intermediary component between the reed sensor and the reed wire. The terminal includes a pressing portion that contacts the reed sensor and a extending portion that connects to the reed wire, allowing the reed sensor to be pressed into electrical contact while the terminal absorbs and redirects tensile forces away from the fragile reed sensor glass body.
2Ease of manufacture
If the reed switch is assembled manually in the refrigerator, then the reed switch can be installed, but the reed wire becomes tangled and productivity is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the reed switch into a modular assembly including the reed sensor, terminal, and reed wire pre-arranged together. This segmentation allows the entire reed switch assembly to be handled as a single unit during installation, eliminating the tangling problem of loose reed wires and enabling automated assembly processes.
3Device complexity
If the reed sensor is exposed without protection, then the structure is simple, but the reed sensor is vulnerable to external shocks
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates a cushioning structure within the terminal assembly that positions and protects the reed sensor before external shocks can reach it. The terminal's pressing portion and housing structure create a protective arrangement that absorbs and distributes shock forces, preventing direct impact on the fragile glass reed sensor.
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 enhances the durability of the reed switch assembly, enables automated assembly processes, and improves the refrigerator's outer appearance by preventing reed sensor damage and improving productivity.
Implementation Method 1
a reed sensor (240) that is electrically coupled to the printed circuit board and detects a door opening state
Data Source
AI summary
A reed switch assembly includes a case having a receiving space formed therein, a substrate assembly seated on the case, and a cover for covering at least a portion of the substrate assembly, wherein the substrate assembly includes a printed circuit board, and a connector and a reed sensor that are electrically coupled to the printed circuit board.