Retractable Dual-Knob Oven Control for Multifunction Operation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Household appliances, such as ovens, have limited functionality due to one-piece, cylindrical levers that restrict the setting of desired functions and parameters, leading to reduced user experience and increased wear and tear.
Innovation Solution
A retractable control element with two movable adjustment parts that can be extended and retracted, allowing for independent rotation and movement, enhancing functionality and user-friendliness by enabling separate selection of functions and parameters with a single operating element.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a one-piece cylindrical lever is used for control, then the structure is simple, but the functionality is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The control element is divided into multiple independent adjustment parts (first adjustment part for function selection, second adjustment part for parameter setting) that can be moved relative to each other along the longitudinal axis, enabling multiple functions with a single control element while maintaining structural clarity
Solution Approach 2:
A single control element incorporates multiple adjustment parts that can perform different functions (function selection, parameter setting) independently, allowing one control element to replace multiple traditional controls and significantly increasing versatility
2Ease of operation
If the control element remains extended, then it is easily accessible, but wear and tear and soiling increase
Solution Approach 1:
The control element is designed to be dynamically movable along its longitudinal axis, allowing it to be extended when needed for operation and retracted when not in use, reducing exposure to wear and soiling while maintaining accessibility during operation
Solution Approach 2:
The control element can be retracted into a protected position within the household appliance when not in use, effectively 'hiding' it from sources of wear and soiling, while being readily available for extension when needed for operation
Data Source
Figure 1~4
AI summary
The element has two movable positioning parts (201,202), which are provided for adjusting functions and operating conditions, and are movable relative to each other, where the two movable positioning parts are rotatable around a common rotational axis. The two movable positioning parts are arranged in a direction of the rotational axis one behind the other, where the two movable positioning parts are designed in the shape of the cylinder. The two movable positioning parts exhibit same diameter. An independent claim is also included for a household device with a retractable operating element.