Self-Adjusting Lock Bolt Housing for Appliance Hatch Closure
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Solution Overview
Problem
In white appliances like dishwashers and washing machines, the lock bolt housing sometimes unexpectedly switches to a closed position while the hatch is open, preventing the hatch from being closed, and causing the lock bolt housing to break when forced shut, leading to user service calls.
Innovation Solution
A self-adjusting locking system that converts horizontal motion into vertical motion within the gliding channel on the lock body using a spring, allowing the lock bolt housing to push the lock bolt into its housing without rotation, ensuring the hatch can be closed regardless of the lock bolt's position.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the lock bolt housing switches to closed position while the hatch is open, then the locking mechanism appears to be secure, but the hatch cannot be closed and the lock bolt housing breaks when forced
Solution Approach 1:
The lock bolt housing is designed to dynamically change its position and orientation based on operational conditions. It can rotate within the gliding channel and switch between locked and unlocked positions, adapting its state rather than remaining fixed. This dynamic behavior allows the system to resolve the contradiction by enabling hatch closure when the housing was previously stuck in a closed position.
Solution Approach 2:
The gliding channel acts as an intermediary mechanism between the lock bolt housing and the fixed lock body. It provides a controlled environment for the housing to move and rotate, mediating the interaction between the moving lock bolt housing and the stationary lock structure. This intermediary allows smooth transitions and prevents direct collision that would cause breaking.
2Ease of operation
If the lock bolt housing is prevented from closing while the hatch is open, then the hatch can be closed properly, but the locking security is compromised when the hatch should be locked
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates feedback through the interaction between the lock bolt, lock bolt housing, and gliding channel. The position of the hatch and the state of the locking mechanism provide feedback that automatically controls the movement of the lock bolt housing. When the hatch is closed, the mechanism feedbacks the housing to rotate into the locked position, ensuring security without requiring external intervention.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism is designed to self-adjust and self-lock without external control. The lock bolt housing automatically rotates into the correct position based on the hatch state and internal spring forces. The system serves itself by using the closing motion of the hatch to drive the locking action, eliminating the need for separate locking operations.
3Reliability
If a spring mechanism is used to convert horizontal motion to vertical motion in the lock bolt housing, then the locking action is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The spring mechanism is merged with the existing lock bolt housing and gliding channel structure. The spring is integrated into the housing rather than being a separate external component, and its function is combined with the housing's movement through the gliding channel. This merging reduces overall complexity while maintaining the motion conversion function.
Solution Approach 2:
The lock bolt housing serves multiple functions: it provides the locking surface, guides the lock bolt movement, rotates to change locking state, and works with the spring for motion conversion. The gliding channel simultaneously constrains the housing movement and provides the rotation path. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional dedicated components.
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
Enables reliable hatch closure by preventing the lock bolt housing from closing prematurely and ensuring proper locking action, reducing service calls and extending appliance lifespan.
Implementation Method 1
by using the available spring (3) of the lock group without rotating the lock bolt housing (2) on the lock body (1)
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention is a lock system that can be used in the entire sector of white appliances and characterized by comprising a lock bolt (4) that fits into its seat through the stretching of the lock bolt housing (6) by means of the spring (3) located on the body (1) and a mechanism that allows the machine hatch to be closed by restoring the lock bolt housing (2) back to its former position even if the lock bolt housing (2) is in closed position.