Steam Oven Door Locking Mechanism With Integrated Closure Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cooking appliances with door locking mechanisms require multiple components and complex structures, leading to increased installation space and difficulty in precise control, particularly in sealed-type cooking appliances like steam ovens, where precise control of the locking mechanism is necessary for safety and functionality.
Innovation Solution
A cooking appliance design that incorporates a simplified door locking mechanism using a hinge module and a pull-down panel unit, which reduces the number of components and installation space, and allows for precise control of the locking operation through a cam structure that is more compact and easier to manage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a cam structure is used to transmit motor rotation force to the locking mechanism, then the locking function is achieved, but precise control becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the cam structure with a gear mechanism. The motor drives a gear that directly engages with the locking mechanism, providing precise control through gear tooth engagement rather than relying on cam profile geometry. This mechanical substitution maintains the locking function while significantly improving control precision.
2Ease of operation
If a gear structure including worm gear is used, then the locking function is achieved, but the structure becomes complex and the number of components increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and removes the worm gear from the mechanism, retaining only the essential gear structure. This simplification maintains the core locking function while eliminating unnecessary components that increased structural complexity. The gear directly connects the motor to the locking mechanism without requiring a worm gear intermediate stage.
3Ease of operation
If a long rod structure is used to transmit motor rotation force to the restriction unit, then the locking function is achieved, but a wide installation space is required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from a long rod structure that transmits force linearly to a gear mechanism that transmits force through rotational engagement. This dimensional change allows the locking mechanism to be compact and fit within limited space while maintaining the ability to transmit sufficient torque for the locking function.
4Difficulty of detecting and measuring
If the detection sensor and lever switch are disposed spaced apart at front and rear portions of casing, then the door opening/closing states are detected, but the installation space expands
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the detection sensor and lever switch into a single integrated detection mechanism. The lever switch directly engages with the door assembly, and the sensor detects the lever position, eliminating the need for separate spaced-apart components. This integration reduces installation space while maintaining accurate door state detection.
Data Source
AI summary
A cooking appliance may include a casing having a cavity therein, and a door configured to open and close the cavity. A door locking device disposed in the casing may lock the door in a closed state. A locking housing of the door locking device may include a latch and a closing button. The latch may be caught by a fixing hole of the door while being rotated, and the closing button may be pressed by a rear surface of the door. As described above, a device (closing button) that detects closing of the door, and a device (latch) that locks the door into the closed state may be formed in one door locking device. Thus, the closing button and the latch may occupy only a small amount of installation space in the cooking appliance, so that the cooking appliance may be miniaturized.