Domestic appliance
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing domestic appliances require multiple operating hardware configurations for different types, leading to increased production costs and complexity, with limited flexibility and maintainability.
Innovation Solution
A universal input apparatus with programmable controls and display means that can be connected to various domestic appliances, featuring a control device that automatically selects the appropriate program based on the appliance type, allowing for shared hardware and software across multiple appliance types, reducing production costs and enhancing maintainability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple operating hardware configurations are used for different appliance types, then device-specific functionality is improved, but production cost and device complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal input apparatus that can be used across multiple appliance types (ovens, cooktops, cookers, dryers, washing machines, refrigeration appliances) by providing a standardized interface with programmable controls. The same hardware design serves different appliance types through software configuration rather than requiring separate hardware designs for each appliance type.
Solution Approach 2:
The input apparatus uses programmable controls that can be configured with different parameters and programs depending on the appliance type. The control device stores multiple programs that can be selected and activated based on the specific appliance being operated, allowing the same hardware to adapt to different functions through parameter changes rather than physical reconfiguration.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple operating hardware configurations are used for different appliance types, then device-specific functionality is improved, but maintenance time increases
Solution Approach 1:
By using a single universal input apparatus design across all appliance types, the patent simplifies maintenance and repair operations. Service technicians need to be trained on only one hardware platform, and replacement parts are standardized, reducing maintenance time and improving ease of repair compared to maintaining multiple different hardware configurations.
3Device complexity
If a universal input apparatus is used for multiple appliance types, then production cost is reduced, but adaptability to different appliance types must be maintained
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs programmable controls with stored programs that can be configured for different appliance types. The control device contains multiple programs that can be activated based on the specific appliance being operated, allowing the universal hardware to adapt to different functions through software parameter changes rather than physical modifications.
Solution Approach 2:
The input apparatus uses a standardized design that is copied and used across multiple appliance types. Rather than creating unique hardware for each appliance type, the same input apparatus design is replicated and adapted through programming, reducing production costs while maintaining the ability to serve different appliance functions.
4Adaptability or versatility
If programmable controls with multiple programs are used, then adaptability to different appliance types is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent separates the complexity of different appliance-specific controls into distinct stored programs within the control device. Rather than having a single complex control system, the input apparatus extracts and stores separate programs for different appliance types, allowing the complexity to be managed through software selection rather than hardware complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
A domestic appliance includes at least one electrically actuated device-type-specific device component executing an operating function characteristic of the type of domestic appliance, a control apparatus actuating the component, and an input electrically connected to the control apparatus and having a display, at least one programmable input and at least one switch electrically contacted to switch a main function of the appliance being characteristic of different types of appliances. The input apparatus has a programmable controller storing at least two programs differently configured to actuate a corresponding number of different types of appliances. The programs are each configured for device-type-specific communication between the at least one programmable input and the control apparatus and to activate only that program corresponding to the type of appliance connected to the input apparatus based on the type of appliance having the control apparatus thereof connected to the input apparatus.