Tilting Operator Panel Structure for Better Appliance Visibility
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional control panels in household appliances, such as ovens, face challenges in user visibility due to vertical placement, safety concerns with inclinable designs, and high manufacturing costs due to bulky and specific components, as well as cooling system inefficiencies.
Innovation Solution
A tilting control panel with a movable element that rotates around a fixed axis, featuring guide and locking mechanisms, allowing easy viewing and ensuring user safety while using standard components and maintaining an identical cooling system to traditional panels.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the control panel is arranged vertically on the front face, then the device structure is simple, but user visibility and observation of control inscriptions are difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The control panel is designed to be tiltable relative to the front face of the device, allowing it to change its angle dynamically. This enables the control panel to transition from a vertical position (simple structure) to an inclined position (improved visibility), resolving the contradiction between structural simplicity and user visibility.
2Ease of operation
If an inclinable control strip is used to improve visibility, then user observation is improved, but the device requires a recess in the front face and cable management becomes complex
Solution Approach 1:
The control panel serves multiple functions: it provides user observation when inclined, integrates seamlessly with the device front face when vertical, and simplifies cable management through its hinged connection design. This multi-functionality resolves the contradiction by making the control panel adaptable to different structural requirements.
3Ease of operation
If a movable control panel with rotational movement is implemented, then user visibility and safety are improved, but manufacturing costs increase due to specific components
Solution Approach 1:
The invention changes the operational parameter of the control panel from fixed to tiltable, allowing it to achieve improved visibility and safety without requiring completely new specific components. The hinged connection and tilting mechanism use standard mechanical elements, reducing manufacturing costs while maintaining the desired functionality.
Data Source
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AI summary
A control strip for a domestic electrical appliance comprises at least one fixed means of assembly (3) and a movable element (4) that can rotate around a rotation axis connected to the fixed part. The fixed part comprises at least one means of guidance and at least one of locking in conjunction with the movable element and the movable element comprises a lower side (8) closed between the front face (21) of the strip and a front face (20) of the movable element.