Switchable Mode Control in Electric Appliances

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional electric appliances require separate operations for switching between modes, leading to reduced operability and potential user confusion due to limited response to switch operations.

Innovation Solution

An electric appliance with a control section that performs first and second determinations based on switch operation duration, allowing for mode switching using standard long or short press operations, enabling seamless transitions between stop, drive, washing, and lock modes.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If separate switches and locking devices are used for mode switching, then the control functions are clearly separated, but the operability deteriorates due to requiring multiple individual operations

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecontrol function separationVSAvoidmode switching operability

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines the switch and locking device into a single integrated component. The switch has both a pressing operation (for mode switching) and a locking operation (for securing the switch in position), eliminating the need for separate components while maintaining clear control functions.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The switch is designed to perform multiple functions: it can be pressed briefly for mode switching, held for a longer duration for locking, and prevents accidental activation. This multi-functional design allows one component to replace what would traditionally require separate switches and locking devices.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Measurement precision

If multiple determination processes are performed based on switch operation duration, then the mode switching precision is improved, but the control complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveswitch operation detection precisionVSAvoidcontrol section complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The control section detects the duration of switch operation and uses this time parameter to determine the user's intent. By measuring how long the switch is held (short press vs. long press), the system accurately distinguishes between mode switching and locking operations without requiring complex mechanical structures.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces complex mechanical switching mechanisms with an electronic control system that uses time-based detection. Instead of having separate physical switches for different functions, the system uses a single switch with electronic timing circuits to determine the appropriate action based on operation duration.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Data Source

PatentUS10471613B2Electrical appliance with switchable operation modes

Publication Date: 2019.11.12 PANASONIC INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY MANAGEMENT CO LTD

AI summary

Electric appliance (1) includes control section (31) having a plurality of operation modes, driving source (21) controlled by control section (31), and switch (12) for switching between the operation modes. Control section (31) is configured to perform a first determination and a second determination in response to an operation duration of switch (12) in order to determine a type of the operation of switch (12), and to set an operation mode after the operation of switch (12) in response to the results of the first and second determinations and an operation mode before the operation of switch (12). In the present aspect, the operability of switching between the operation modes in electric appliance (1) is improved.