Vapour extractor with control module
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing extractor hood control systems are cumbersome and unintuitive, especially in dim lighting conditions, as they require users to manually switch on the control panel and position it within their field of vision for function selection and setting, leading to potential accidental settings and complex operation procedures.
Innovation Solution
An extractor hood with a modular operating module featuring a control panel that operates in two modes: a first mode allowing specific function setting by actuating individual areas and a second mode enabling predetermined function setting by actuating multiple areas, reducing accidental settings and simplifying operation by allowing basic functions to be set without explicit selection or activation of the control panel.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Shape
If the control panel is arranged out of the user's field of vision to improve appearance and avoid obstruction, then the aesthetic appearance and workspace clearance are improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates as users cannot easily access and adjust functions
Solution Approach 1:
The control panel is designed to be movable between a first position (protruding from the housing) and a second position (recessed into the housing). This dynamic positioning allows the control panel to be accessible when needed and aesthetically integrated when not in use, resolving the contradiction between appearance and operability.
2Reliability
If the control panel is switched off to prevent accidental settings, then the reliability against incorrect settings is improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates as users must manually switch it on for every adjustment
Solution Approach 1:
The control panel is pre-configured with multiple operating modes (first operating mode for specific function setting, second operating mode for predefined function setting) that are automatically activated based on the position or state of the control panel. This eliminates the need for manual switching while maintaining reliability through mode-specific activation requirements.
3Adaptability or versatility
If individual buttons with printed symbols are provided for each function, then the adaptability and specificity of function control are improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control panel areas are designed to serve multiple functions depending on the operating mode. In the first operating mode, individual areas control specific functions; in the second operating mode, combinations of areas control predefined functions. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate controls while maintaining adaptability.
Data Source
Figure 1
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Figure 4~5B
AI summary
The invention relates to a range hood (1) with a control module (2), wherein the control module (2) comprises a control panel (3) for setting functions of the range hood (1) coupled to the control module (2). The control panel (3) has at least two areas (A1,..., B7), wherein the control module (2) is configured to set at least one specific function of the range hood (1) in a first operating mode of the control module (2) when a specific area (A1,..., B7) is activated. According to the invention, the control module (2) is also operable in a second operating mode, wherein the control module (2) is configured to set at least one predefined function of the coupled range hood (1) in the second operating mode when at least two areas (A1,..., B7) are activated.