US3865097A - Latch for microwave oven - Google Patents

Latch for microwave oven Download PDF

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Publication number
US3865097A
US3865097A US472544A US47254474A US3865097A US 3865097 A US3865097 A US 3865097A US 472544 A US472544 A US 472544A US 47254474 A US47254474 A US 47254474A US 3865097 A US3865097 A US 3865097A
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Prior art keywords
latch
door
oven
edge
sliding element
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US472544A
Inventor
Donald B Robinson
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MICRO-QUARTZ TECHNOLOGY Corp 1010 LYNDALE AVE NORTH MINNEAPOLIS MN 55141 A CORP OF
SAGE LABORATORIES
SAGE LABORATORIES Inc
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SAGE LABORATORIES
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Assigned to MICRO-QUARTZ TECHNOLOGY CORPORATION, A CORP. OF MN. reassignment MICRO-QUARTZ TECHNOLOGY CORPORATION, A CORP. OF MN. ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST. Assignors: MICRO-TRONICS, LTD. A CORP. F MN.
Assigned to MICRO-TRONICS, LTD., INC., 1010 LYNDALE AVE. NORTH, MINNEAPOLIS, MN 55141 A CORP. OF reassignment MICRO-TRONICS, LTD., INC., 1010 LYNDALE AVE. NORTH, MINNEAPOLIS, MN 55141 A CORP. OF ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST. Assignors: MICRO-TRONICS, INC. A WI CORP.
Assigned to MICRO-QUARTZ TECHNOLOGY CORPORATION 1010 LYNDALE AVE., NORTH MINNEAPOLIS, MN 55141 A CORP. OF MN reassignment MICRO-QUARTZ TECHNOLOGY CORPORATION 1010 LYNDALE AVE., NORTH MINNEAPOLIS, MN 55141 A CORP. OF MN ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST. Assignors: MICRO-TRONICS, LTD., INC. A MN CORP.
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    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H05—ELECTRIC TECHNIQUES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • H05B—ELECTRIC HEATING; ELECTRIC LIGHT SOURCES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; CIRCUIT ARRANGEMENTS FOR ELECTRIC LIGHT SOURCES, IN GENERAL
    • H05B6/00—Heating by electric, magnetic or electromagnetic fields
    • H05B6/64—Heating using microwaves
    • H05B6/6414—Aspects relating to the door of the microwave heating apparatus
    • H05B6/6417—Door interlocks of the microwave heating apparatus and related circuits
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F24—HEATING; RANGES; VENTILATING
    • F24C—DOMESTIC STOVES OR RANGES ; DETAILS OF DOMESTIC STOVES OR RANGES, OF GENERAL APPLICATION
    • F24C15/00—Details
    • F24C15/02—Doors specially adapted for stoves or ranges
    • F24C15/022—Latches
    • Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
    • Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
    • Y10S—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
    • Y10S292/00—Closure fasteners
    • Y10S292/69—Washing machine or stove closure latch
    • Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
    • Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
    • Y10T—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER US CLASSIFICATION
    • Y10T292/00—Closure fasteners
    • Y10T292/08—Bolts
    • Y10T292/0801—Multiple
    • Y10T292/0848—Swinging
    • Y10T292/0849—Operating means
    • Y10T292/0853—Link and lever

Definitions

  • ABSTRACT A door latch assembly for a microwave oven having a latch plate mounted on the microwave oven door. said oven also including means on the front face of the oven for receiving the latch.
  • a switch holder or plate assembly and an actuable slide bar are disposed behind the face wall of the oven. The switch holder assembly is basically stationary whereas the slide bar is actuable by means of an actuating bar or button accessible on the front side of the face wall of the oven.
  • each latch For engagement with each latch, there is provided a latch receiving element which is pivotally supported intermediate the switch holder assembly and the actuating slide bar so that when the oven door is closed and the slide bar is actuated against its normally upwardly biased position the latch receiving element pivotally disengages from the latch and the door is permitted to open.
  • a separate opening bias means may be provided.
  • the present invention relates to a novel latching mechanism for use with a microwave cooking oven.
  • One object of the present invention is to provide an improved latching mechanism for a microwave cooking oven.
  • Another object of the present invention is to provide a latching mechanism that preferably employs at least two latches each preferably having a switch means associated therewith. It is also a purpose of the present invention to provide a further switch associated with the means for biasing the door to an open position. 7
  • Another object of the present invention is to provide a latching mechanism readily adjustable so that the door can be secured in its closed position with varying degrees of tightness. After some use of the oven this adjusting means can also be used to readjust the door so that it is maintained tightly closed when in the closed position.
  • a latch assembly for securing a microwave oven door to the face of the microwave oven.
  • This assembly generally comprises a part that is affixed to the door and a second part for engagement with the first part and that is disposed behind the face of the oven.
  • the means that are fastened to the cantilevered end of the oven door include at least one latch.
  • the face of the microwave oven has at least one aperture to receive this latch.
  • Disposed on the backside of the face of the microwave oven is a latch receiving means which includes means defining an edge for engagement with the latch when the door is closed. This latch receiving means is pivotally supported with the edge disposed intermediate the oven face and the pivot point.
  • the latch assembly further comprises a sliding element arranged to move in a generally vertical direction and means freely securing the latch receiving means to the sliding element so that as the sliding element moves the latch receiving means is free to pivot about the pivot point.
  • the sliding element is biased to a position wherein the latch and the latch receiving edge are in engagement when the door is closed.
  • To open the door means are provided accessible from the front of the oven for actuating the sliding element to cause the latch to disengage from the latch receiving edge.
  • a pair of hooked-shaped latches which engage with a pair of latch receiving edges.
  • Switch means are provided associated with each of the latch receiving means and each switch means is engageable with the latch for actuating the switch when the door is closed.
  • the latch receiving means is preferably adjustable by movement of its pivot point which in turn adjusts the position of the latch receiving edge relative to the latch. Biasing means is also shown in the preferred embodiment for forcing the door to an open position once the latch has been disengaged.
  • FIG. 1 is a partial front view of amicrowave oven constructed in accordance with the principles of the present invention and showing the microwave oven door partially opened;
  • FIG. 2 is a cut-away side view of the latch assembly of the present invention
  • FIG. 3 is a rear view of a slightly alternate arrangement to that shown in FIG. 2.
  • FIG. I shows a portion of the microwave oven 10 including an oven cooking cavity 12, oven door 14, front face wall 16, and front panel 18.
  • the panel 18 may contain controls for the microwave oven which are not shown in FIG. 1. However, FIG. 1 does show the actuating button 20 of panel 18 which is operable to open the microwave oven door when it is closed.
  • FIG. 1 also shows the apertures 26 in the front face 16 for receiving the latches 24.
  • FIG. 2 also shows the latch plate 22 which has the hook-shaped latches 24 extending therefrom.
  • the plate 22 may be secured to the door 14 in any suitable manner such as with the use of the rivets 23 shown in FIG. 2 or by means of screws.
  • FIG. 2 also shows the actuating button 20 which couples by way of shaft 21 to the rear of the front facewall 16 of the microwave oven.
  • the major portion of the latch assembly of this invention as shown in FIGS. 2 and 3 is disposed inside the housing of the oven and includes a stationary holder 30, a pair of latch receiving means 32, and a vertically movable slide bar 34.
  • the slide bar 34 may be actuated for vertical movement at virtually any point therealong. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 2 the slide bar is actuated at the top and in the embodiment shown in FIG. 3 the slide bar may be actuated at either the top or bottom as discussed in more detail hereinafter.
  • the stationary holder 30' has a front flange 31 which is secured by a plurality of fasteners 33 or the like to the rear of the front wall 16.
  • the holder 30 may also be secured at other points within the housing of the microwave oven.
  • the holder 30 also has a slightly recessed channel 38 that extends vertically and accommodates the sliding bar 34.
  • the latch receiving means 32 comprises a substantially flat holding plate 40 having a flanged end 42 that terminates in a slanted bearing surface 44 and edge 46.
  • the plate 40 is pivoted at point 48 by means of a bolt and nut arrangement.
  • this bolt and nut arrangement includes a socket head capscrew 52 that mates with a nut 54 which is secured to a tab member 56 the end of which is locked within recess 57 of holder 30.
  • the holder 30 is also provided with an elongated slot 58 which permits movement of the pivot point in the direction of the longitudinal slot. When the pivot point is located properly then the socket head capscrew can be secured to hold the plate 40 in that position yet permitting pivotal movement of the plate 40 relative to the stationary holder 30.
  • the movement of the plate 40 is provided by employing an intercoupling member 60 which may be a nut and bolt arrangement which couples between plate 40 and an aperture in sliding bar 34.
  • an intercoupling member 60 which may be a nut and bolt arrangement which couples between plate 40 and an aperture in sliding bar 34.
  • the sliding bar 34 as depicited in FIG. 3 may be limited in its vertical movement by means of a post 35 which extends through an aperture in holder 30.
  • the plate 40 also has secured thereto a switch 62 which has an actuating button 64.
  • the switch is disposed so that the actuating button 64 is positioned just below the edge 46 a sufficient distance to contact the hook-shaped end of the latch 24 when the latch is engaged with the edge 46.
  • the switch 62 may be of conventional design and is shown in the drawings as including output terminals 66.
  • the switch 62 may be insulatedly supported from the plate 40 especially if the plate 40 is metalic.
  • the slide bar 34 has a top horizontal projection 65 which is normally biased upwardly by spring 68 but which may be urged downwardly when the door is closed to cause downward pivoting of plate 40 to cause disengagement between the latch and edge 46.
  • a slide bar actuating mechanism which includes actuating button and associated shaft 21 referred to hereinbefore, support bracket 80, pivot bar 82, common shaft 84, and biasing spring 68.
  • actuating button 20 Upon actuation of the button 20 the shaft 21 moves rearwardly.
  • the shaft 21 is affixed to the support bracket 80 and upon movement of the shaft 21 the bracket 80 pivots about shaft 84.
  • Shaft 84 extends through an aperture in the supporting lip 81, through an aperture in an in-turned flange 83 of pivot bar 82, through an opposite in-turned edge'of pivot bar edge 82 and through an aperture in the holder 30.
  • the second in-turned flange 85 of pivot bar 82 contacts the end 65 of the slide bar 34.
  • the spring 68 has one end 69 which fits under the slide bar end 65 and has its other end coupled through aperture 71 and about the end of shaft 84 to cause an upward biasing of the slide bar 34.
  • the flange end 85 pivots, as shown in FIG. 2 downwardly against the upper surface of end 65 to thereby cause a downward pivoting of the bearing surface 44.
  • the latch 24 is disengagable from the edge 46.
  • FIG. 2 also shows a biasing means 86 disposed intermediate the two plates 40.
  • This biasing means 86 is for biasing the door to an open position once latch 24 has disengaged from the latch receiving member.
  • a stationary bracket 87 having a flanged end 88 having an aperture therethrough for accommodating sliding plunger rod 90 which has a conical end 91 that is engagable with the actuating button 92 of switch 94.
  • the switch 94 is suitably fastened preferably to the stationary holder 30.
  • This switch 94 has electrical contacts 95 and may be used for controlling operation of certain of the circuitry associated with the microwave oven.
  • a spring 96 is disposed about rod 90 and extends between flange 88 and an enlarged retaining flange 97.
  • actuating button 98 On the other side of the flange 97 there is an actuating button 98 which is engagable by the door and is pushed inwardly to cause the rod 90 to contact the switch 94 when the door is closed.
  • PK]. 3 also shows in addition to the top slide bar actuating mechanism also a bottom mechanism 100 which may be substantially identical to the top mechanism and includes a support bracket 10], a common shaft 102, a biasing spring 104, and a pivot bar 106.
  • the mechanism 100 operates in the same manner except that the flange at the end of pivot bar 106 acts upon the top surface 108 of a bottom extension 109 of the slide bar.
  • a latch assembly for securing a microwave oven door to the face of the microwave oven comprising:
  • said face having at least one aperture to receive the latch
  • a latch receiving means including means defining an edge for engagement with the latch when the door is closed
  • said means defining an edge includes a rearwardly turned lip having a bearing surface over which the latch is permitted to slide and terminating in the edge.
  • the latch assembly of claim 1 including an electrical switch having an actuating means disposed adjacent said edge.
  • the latch assembly of claim 1 wherein said means for securing the door includes a pair of spaced latches. anism having a shaft, and said means for biasing in- 9.
  • the latch assembly of claim 8 including means for l d d b uh f forcing the door open when the door is disengaged. c u e s2 1Sprmg lspose a c sha tand comactmg the sliding element.

Abstract

A door latch assembly for a microwave oven having a latch plate mounted on the microwave oven door, said oven also including means on the front face of the oven for receiving the latch. A switch holder or plate assembly and an actuable slide bar are disposed behind the face wall of the oven. The switch holder assembly is basically stationary whereas the slide bar is actuable by means of an actuating bar or button accessible on the front side of the face wall of the oven. For engagement with each latch, there is provided a latch receiving element which is pivotally supported intermediate the switch holder assembly and the actuating slide bar so that when the oven door is closed and the slide bar is actuated against its normally upwardly biased position the latch receiving element pivotally disengages from the latch and the door is permitted to open. A separate opening bias means may be provided.

Description

United States Patent 11 1 Robinson [4 1 Feb. 11,1975
1 1 LATCH FOR MICROWAVE OVEN [75] lnventor: Donald B. Robinson, Framingham,
Mass.
22 Filed: May 23,1974
21 Appl. No.: 472,544
[52] US. Cl 126/197, 126/191, 292/48,
292/D1G. 69, 219/413 [51] Int. Cl. F23m 7/00 [58] Field 01 Search 126/190, 191, 197, 192,
126/198; 292/47, 48, 221, 222,223, 53, DIG. 69; 219/412, 413
Primary E.\'aminerCarroll B. Dority, .lr. Assistant Examiner-Larry l. Schwartz Attorney, Agent, or Firm-Wolf, Greenfield & Sacks [57] ABSTRACT A door latch assembly for a microwave oven having a latch plate mounted on the microwave oven door. said oven also including means on the front face of the oven for receiving the latch. A switch holder or plate assembly and an actuable slide bar are disposed behind the face wall of the oven. The switch holder assembly is basically stationary whereas the slide bar is actuable by means of an actuating bar or button accessible on the front side of the face wall of the oven. For engagement with each latch, there is provided a latch receiving element which is pivotally supported intermediate the switch holder assembly and the actuating slide bar so that when the oven door is closed and the slide bar is actuated against its normally upwardly biased position the latch receiving element pivotally disengages from the latch and the door is permitted to open. A separate opening bias means may be provided.
10 Claims, 3 Drawing Figures PATENTEB FEB] I 1975 SHEET 10F 3 PMENTED FEB] 1 I975 SHEET 2 OF I 3 1 LATCH FOR MICROWAVE OVEN BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION The present invention relates to a novel latching mechanism for use with a microwave cooking oven.
One object of the present invention is to provide an improved latching mechanism for a microwave cooking oven.
Another object of the present invention is to provide a latching mechanism that preferably employs at least two latches each preferably having a switch means associated therewith. It is also a purpose of the present invention to provide a further switch associated with the means for biasing the door to an open position. 7
Another object of the present invention is to provide a latching mechanism readily adjustable so that the door can be secured in its closed position with varying degrees of tightness. After some use of the oven this adjusting means can also be used to readjust the door so that it is maintained tightly closed when in the closed position.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION To accomplish the foregoing and other objects of this invention there is provided a latch assembly for securing a microwave oven door to the face of the microwave oven. This assembly generally comprises a part that is affixed to the door and a second part for engagement with the first part and that is disposed behind the face of the oven. The means that are fastened to the cantilevered end of the oven door include at least one latch. The face of the microwave oven has at least one aperture to receive this latch. Disposed on the backside of the face of the microwave oven is a latch receiving means which includes means defining an edge for engagement with the latch when the door is closed. This latch receiving means is pivotally supported with the edge disposed intermediate the oven face and the pivot point. The latch assembly further comprises a sliding element arranged to move in a generally vertical direction and means freely securing the latch receiving means to the sliding element so that as the sliding element moves the latch receiving means is free to pivot about the pivot point. The sliding element is biased to a position wherein the latch and the latch receiving edge are in engagement when the door is closed. To open the door means are provided accessible from the front of the oven for actuating the sliding element to cause the latch to disengage from the latch receiving edge.
In the preferred embodiment there is provided a pair of hooked-shaped latches which engage with a pair of latch receiving edges. Switch means are provided associated with each of the latch receiving means and each switch means is engageable with the latch for actuating the switch when the door is closed. The latch receiving means is preferably adjustable by movement of its pivot point which in turn adjusts the position of the latch receiving edge relative to the latch. Biasing means is also shown in the preferred embodiment for forcing the door to an open position once the latch has been disengaged.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS Numerous other objects, features and advantages of the invention should now become apparent upon a reading of the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:
FIG. 1 is a partial front view of amicrowave oven constructed in accordance with the principles of the present invention and showing the microwave oven door partially opened;
FIG. 2 is a cut-away side view of the latch assembly of the present invention;
FIG. 3 is a rear view of a slightly alternate arrangement to that shown in FIG. 2.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION FIG. I shows a portion of the microwave oven 10 including an oven cooking cavity 12, oven door 14, front face wall 16, and front panel 18. The panel 18 may contain controls for the microwave oven which are not shown in FIG. 1. However, FIG. 1 does show the actuating button 20 of panel 18 which is operable to open the microwave oven door when it is closed.
For securing the door 14 in a closed position there is provided a latch plate 22 having latches 24 extending therefrom. FIG. 1 also shows the apertures 26 in the front face 16 for receiving the latches 24.
FIG. 2 also shows the latch plate 22 which has the hook-shaped latches 24 extending therefrom. The plate 22 may be secured to the door 14 in any suitable manner such as with the use of the rivets 23 shown in FIG. 2 or by means of screws. FIG. 2 also shows the actuating button 20 which couples by way of shaft 21 to the rear of the front facewall 16 of the microwave oven.
The major portion of the latch assembly of this invention as shown in FIGS. 2 and 3 is disposed inside the housing of the oven and includes a stationary holder 30, a pair of latch receiving means 32, and a vertically movable slide bar 34. The slide bar 34 may be actuated for vertical movement at virtually any point therealong. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 2 the slide bar is actuated at the top and in the embodiment shown in FIG. 3 the slide bar may be actuated at either the top or bottom as discussed in more detail hereinafter.
The stationary holder 30'has a front flange 31 which is secured by a plurality of fasteners 33 or the like to the rear of the front wall 16. The holder 30 may also be secured at other points within the housing of the microwave oven. The holder 30 also has a slightly recessed channel 38 that extends vertically and accommodates the sliding bar 34.
The latch receiving means 32 comprises a substantially flat holding plate 40 having a flanged end 42 that terminates in a slanted bearing surface 44 and edge 46.
The plate 40 is pivoted at point 48 by means of a bolt and nut arrangement. As shown in FIGS. 2 and 3 this bolt and nut arrangement includes a socket head capscrew 52 that mates with a nut 54 which is secured to a tab member 56 the end of which is locked within recess 57 of holder 30. The holder 30 is also provided with an elongated slot 58 which permits movement of the pivot point in the direction of the longitudinal slot. When the pivot point is located properly then the socket head capscrew can be secured to hold the plate 40 in that position yet permitting pivotal movement of the plate 40 relative to the stationary holder 30.
The movement of the plate 40 is provided by employing an intercoupling member 60 which may be a nut and bolt arrangement which couples between plate 40 and an aperture in sliding bar 34. Thus, as the sliding bar 34 is caused to move longitudinally in a vertical direction this likewise causes the plates 40 to pivot therewith. The sliding bar 34, as depicited in FIG. 3 may be limited in its vertical movement by means of a post 35 which extends through an aperture in holder 30.
The plate 40 also has secured thereto a switch 62 which has an actuating button 64. The switch is disposed so that the actuating button 64 is positioned just below the edge 46 a sufficient distance to contact the hook-shaped end of the latch 24 when the latch is engaged with the edge 46. The switch 62 may be of conventional design and is shown in the drawings as including output terminals 66. The switch 62 may be insulatedly supported from the plate 40 especially if the plate 40 is metalic.
The slide bar 34 has a top horizontal projection 65 which is normally biased upwardly by spring 68 but which may be urged downwardly when the door is closed to cause downward pivoting of plate 40 to cause disengagement between the latch and edge 46. This operation is provided by a slide bar actuating mechanism which includes actuating button and associated shaft 21 referred to hereinbefore, support bracket 80, pivot bar 82, common shaft 84, and biasing spring 68. Upon actuation of the button 20 the shaft 21 moves rearwardly. The shaft 21 is affixed to the support bracket 80 and upon movement of the shaft 21 the bracket 80 pivots about shaft 84. Shaft 84 extends through an aperture in the supporting lip 81, through an aperture in an in-turned flange 83 of pivot bar 82, through an opposite in-turned edge'of pivot bar edge 82 and through an aperture in the holder 30. The second in-turned flange 85 of pivot bar 82 contacts the end 65 of the slide bar 34. Normally, the spring 68 has one end 69 which fits under the slide bar end 65 and has its other end coupled through aperture 71 and about the end of shaft 84 to cause an upward biasing of the slide bar 34.
Upon actuation of the button 20 and pivoting of the pivot bar 82, the flange end 85 pivots, as shown in FIG. 2 downwardly against the upper surface of end 65 to thereby cause a downward pivoting of the bearing surface 44. Upon sufficient downward movement of a slide bar the latch 24 is disengagable from the edge 46.
FIG. 2 also shows a biasing means 86 disposed intermediate the two plates 40. This biasing means 86 is for biasing the door to an open position once latch 24 has disengaged from the latch receiving member. For this purpose there is provided a stationary bracket 87 having a flanged end 88 having an aperture therethrough for accommodating sliding plunger rod 90 which has a conical end 91 that is engagable with the actuating button 92 of switch 94. The switch 94 is suitably fastened preferably to the stationary holder 30. This switch 94 has electrical contacts 95 and may be used for controlling operation of certain of the circuitry associated with the microwave oven. A spring 96 is disposed about rod 90 and extends between flange 88 and an enlarged retaining flange 97. On the other side of the flange 97 there is an actuating button 98 which is engagable by the door and is pushed inwardly to cause the rod 90 to contact the switch 94 when the door is closed. When the door is to be opened and as soon as the latch disengages from the latch receiving means, the force of the spring 95 is transmitted to member 98 which forces the door l4'towards its open position.
PK]. 3 also shows in addition to the top slide bar actuating mechanism also a bottom mechanism 100 which may be substantially identical to the top mechanism and includes a support bracket 10], a common shaft 102, a biasing spring 104, and a pivot bar 106. The mechanism 100 operates in the same manner except that the flange at the end of pivot bar 106 acts upon the top surface 108 of a bottom extension 109 of the slide bar.
One of the important features of the present invention is concerned with the pivotal latch receiving means and the ease with which this may be adjusted to provide secure latch engagement. This type of an arrangement also provides a secure latching with a relatively simple construction. Having described one embodiment of the present invention it should now be apparent to those skilled in the art that there exists numerous other embodiments and modifications of the ones disclosed herein, all of which arecontemplated as falling. within the spirit and scope of the present invention.
What is claimed is:
1. A latch assembly for securing a microwave oven door to the face of the microwave oven comprising:
means fastened to the cantilevered end of the oven door for securing the door to the oven face and including at least one latch,
said face having at least one aperture to receive the latch,
a latch receiving means including means defining an edge for engagement with the latch when the door is closed,
means for pivotally supporting said latch receiving means with said edge disposed intermediate the oven face and the pivot point,
a sliding element arranged to move in a generally vertical direction,
means freely securing said latch receiving means to said sliding element so that as said sliding element moves said latch receiving means isfree to pivot about the pivot point,
means for biasing the sliding element to a position wherein the latch and latch receiving edge are in engagement when the door is closed and means accessible from the front of the oven for actuating the sliding element to cause the latch to disengage from the latch receiving edge.
2. The latch assembly of claim 1 wherein said means defining an edge includes a rearwardly turned lip having a bearing surface over which the latch is permitted to slide and terminating in the edge.
3. The latch assembly of claim 1 wherein said means for pivotally supporting said latch receiving means includes a stationary plate and a pivot member secured between the plate and latch receiving means.
4. The latch assembly of claim 3 wherein said plate has a longitudinal slot for accommodating the pivot member and permitting adjustment of the edge relative to the latch.
5. The latch assembly of claim 4 wherein the pivot member includes a bolt and nut having a tab member to prevent rotation thereof.
6. The latch assembly of claim 1 including an electrical switch having an actuating means disposed adjacent said edge.
7. The latch assembly of claim 6 wherein the actuating means is disposed just below said edge.
8. The latch assembly of claim 1 wherein said means for securing the door includes a pair of spaced latches. anism having a shaft, and said means for biasing in- 9. The latch assembly of claim 8 including means for l d d b uh f forcing the door open when the door is disengaged. c u e s2 1Sprmg lspose a c sha tand comactmg the sliding element.
10. The latch assembly of claim 1 wherein said means for actuating the sliding element includes a pivot mech-

Claims (10)

1. A latch assembly for securing a microwave oven door to the face of the microwave oven comprising: means fastened to the cantilevered end of the oven door for securing the door to the oven face and including at least one latch, said face having at least one aperture to receive the latch, a latch receiving means including means defining an edge for engagement with the latch when the door is closed, means for pivotally supporting said latch receiving means with said edge disposed intermediate the oven face and the pivot point, a sliding element arranged to move in a generally vertical direction, means freely securing said latch receiving means to said sliding element so that as said sliding element moves said latch receiving means is free to pivot about the pivot point, means for biasing the sliding element to a position wherein the latch and latch receiving edge are in engagement when the door is closed and means accessible from the front of the oven for actuating the sliding element to cause the latch to disengage from the latch receiving edge.
2. The latch assembly of claim 1 wherein said means defining an edge includes a rearwardly turned lip having a bearing surface over which the latch is permitted to slide and terminating in the edge.
3. The latch assembly of claim 1 wherein said means for pivotally supporting said latch receiving means includes a stationary plate and a pivot member secured between the plate and latch receiving means.
4. The latch assembly of claim 3 wherein said plate has a longitudinal slot for accommodating the pivot member and permitting adjustment of the edge relative to the latch.
5. The latch assembly of claim 4 wherein the pivot member includes a bolt and nut having a tab member to prevent rotation thereof.
6. The latch assembly of claim 1 including an electrical switch having an actuating means disposed adjacent said edge.
7. The latch assembly of claim 6 wherein the actuating means is disposed just below said edge.
8. The latch assembly of claim 1 wherein said means for securing the door includes a pair of spaced latches.
9. The latch assembly of claim 8 including means for forcing the door open when the door is disengaged.
10. The latch assembly of claim 1 wherein said means for actuating the sliding element includes a pivot mechanism having a shaft, and said means for biasing includes a spring disposed about the shaft and contacting the sliding element.
US472544A 1974-05-23 1974-05-23 Latch for microwave oven Expired - Lifetime US3865097A (en)

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Cited By (25)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US3984733A (en) * 1975-01-31 1976-10-05 Torr Laboratories, Inc. Interlock safety switching circuit for X-ray appliance and the like
US4006121A (en) * 1973-06-27 1977-02-01 Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., Ltd. Door latch mechanism controlling switch in microwave oven or the like
US4018148A (en) * 1975-09-16 1977-04-19 Broan Manufacturing Co., Inc. Latch for trash compactors
US4101750A (en) * 1977-05-31 1978-07-18 Whirlpool Corporation Door interlock system for microwave oven
FR2449849A1 (en) * 1979-02-23 1980-09-19 Pruines Iseco De Microwave oven door - has hooks engaging in openings uncovered by cooperating movable slides, operation of oven occurring only when correct engagement is sensed
US4321445A (en) * 1980-01-28 1982-03-23 Whirlpool Corporation Door latch interlock system for microwave oven
EP0101983A1 (en) * 1982-08-19 1984-03-07 Litton Systems, Inc. Interlock switch module for a microwave oven
US4453065A (en) * 1982-05-17 1984-06-05 General Electric Company Microwave oven door aligning assembly
US4457545A (en) * 1982-05-03 1984-07-03 General Electric Company Door latch assembly
US4504719A (en) * 1982-02-22 1985-03-12 General Electric Company Door latch and method of assembly
US4528430A (en) * 1983-07-12 1985-07-09 Cherry Electrical Products Corporation Electrical appliance interlock switch with force efficient actuator
US4529852A (en) * 1983-07-12 1985-07-16 Cherry Electrical Products Corporation Electrical appliance interlock switch
US4623179A (en) * 1983-12-27 1986-11-18 The Maytag Company Door latch for appliance
US4687889A (en) * 1983-07-12 1987-08-18 The Cherry Corporation Electrical appliance interlock switch with improved isolation means
US4755647A (en) * 1985-04-27 1988-07-05 Imanishi Kinzoku Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha Control unit for power-supply circuit in electronic range
US4776620A (en) * 1986-09-29 1988-10-11 Whirlpool Corporation Door latch for dishwasher
US4875721A (en) * 1988-11-10 1989-10-24 Imanishi Kinzoku Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha Latch assembly for door or window of microwave range
US5196991A (en) * 1991-09-13 1993-03-23 Hsieh La Fai Portable computer having pivotable detachable cover with display
US5895601A (en) * 1996-03-12 1999-04-20 Daewoo Electronics Co., Ltd. Door lock mechanism with a duct for a microwave oven
US6043473A (en) * 1995-07-26 2000-03-28 Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., Ltd. Self lubricating door key and door hook for high frequency heating apparatus
US6333495B1 (en) * 1999-01-14 2001-12-25 Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. Safety device for a microwave oven
US20080078373A1 (en) * 2006-09-28 2008-04-03 Sung Kwang Kim Heating cooker with hinged door
US20080272030A1 (en) * 2007-05-04 2008-11-06 Boykin Jack W Method for the production of synthetic fuels
US20110290791A1 (en) * 2009-02-06 2011-12-01 Panasonic Corporation High-frequency heating device
US20170086260A1 (en) * 2015-09-21 2017-03-23 Guangdong Midea Kitchen Appliances Manufacturing Co., Ltd. Microwave heating device

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US2199467A (en) * 1937-04-29 1940-05-07 American Forging & Socket Co Automobile hood latch
US3049115A (en) * 1957-12-09 1962-08-14 Gen Motors Corp Oven door mounting means
US3099471A (en) * 1961-01-09 1963-07-30 Gen Electric Door latch
US3648011A (en) * 1970-06-09 1972-03-07 Westinghouse Electric Corp Oven latch operated feature switch
US3757084A (en) * 1971-09-27 1973-09-04 Corning Glass Works Door latching system

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Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US2199467A (en) * 1937-04-29 1940-05-07 American Forging & Socket Co Automobile hood latch
US3049115A (en) * 1957-12-09 1962-08-14 Gen Motors Corp Oven door mounting means
US3099471A (en) * 1961-01-09 1963-07-30 Gen Electric Door latch
US3648011A (en) * 1970-06-09 1972-03-07 Westinghouse Electric Corp Oven latch operated feature switch
US3757084A (en) * 1971-09-27 1973-09-04 Corning Glass Works Door latching system

Cited By (30)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US4006121A (en) * 1973-06-27 1977-02-01 Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., Ltd. Door latch mechanism controlling switch in microwave oven or the like
US3984733A (en) * 1975-01-31 1976-10-05 Torr Laboratories, Inc. Interlock safety switching circuit for X-ray appliance and the like
US4018148A (en) * 1975-09-16 1977-04-19 Broan Manufacturing Co., Inc. Latch for trash compactors
US4101750A (en) * 1977-05-31 1978-07-18 Whirlpool Corporation Door interlock system for microwave oven
FR2449849A1 (en) * 1979-02-23 1980-09-19 Pruines Iseco De Microwave oven door - has hooks engaging in openings uncovered by cooperating movable slides, operation of oven occurring only when correct engagement is sensed
US4321445A (en) * 1980-01-28 1982-03-23 Whirlpool Corporation Door latch interlock system for microwave oven
US4504719A (en) * 1982-02-22 1985-03-12 General Electric Company Door latch and method of assembly
US4457545A (en) * 1982-05-03 1984-07-03 General Electric Company Door latch assembly
US4453065A (en) * 1982-05-17 1984-06-05 General Electric Company Microwave oven door aligning assembly
EP0101983A1 (en) * 1982-08-19 1984-03-07 Litton Systems, Inc. Interlock switch module for a microwave oven
US4516007A (en) * 1982-08-19 1985-05-07 Litton Systems, Inc. Interlock switch module for a microwave oven
US4687889A (en) * 1983-07-12 1987-08-18 The Cherry Corporation Electrical appliance interlock switch with improved isolation means
US4529852A (en) * 1983-07-12 1985-07-16 Cherry Electrical Products Corporation Electrical appliance interlock switch
US4528430A (en) * 1983-07-12 1985-07-09 Cherry Electrical Products Corporation Electrical appliance interlock switch with force efficient actuator
US4623179A (en) * 1983-12-27 1986-11-18 The Maytag Company Door latch for appliance
US4755647A (en) * 1985-04-27 1988-07-05 Imanishi Kinzoku Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha Control unit for power-supply circuit in electronic range
US4776620A (en) * 1986-09-29 1988-10-11 Whirlpool Corporation Door latch for dishwasher
US4875721A (en) * 1988-11-10 1989-10-24 Imanishi Kinzoku Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha Latch assembly for door or window of microwave range
US5196991A (en) * 1991-09-13 1993-03-23 Hsieh La Fai Portable computer having pivotable detachable cover with display
US6043473A (en) * 1995-07-26 2000-03-28 Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., Ltd. Self lubricating door key and door hook for high frequency heating apparatus
US5895601A (en) * 1996-03-12 1999-04-20 Daewoo Electronics Co., Ltd. Door lock mechanism with a duct for a microwave oven
US6333495B1 (en) * 1999-01-14 2001-12-25 Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. Safety device for a microwave oven
US20080078373A1 (en) * 2006-09-28 2008-04-03 Sung Kwang Kim Heating cooker with hinged door
US8430089B2 (en) * 2006-09-28 2013-04-30 Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. Heating cooker with hinged door
US20080272030A1 (en) * 2007-05-04 2008-11-06 Boykin Jack W Method for the production of synthetic fuels
US20110290791A1 (en) * 2009-02-06 2011-12-01 Panasonic Corporation High-frequency heating device
EP2395286A1 (en) * 2009-02-06 2011-12-14 Panasonic Corporation High-frequency heating device
EP2395286A4 (en) * 2009-02-06 2013-03-27 Panasonic Corp High-frequency heating device
US20170086260A1 (en) * 2015-09-21 2017-03-23 Guangdong Midea Kitchen Appliances Manufacturing Co., Ltd. Microwave heating device
US10462857B2 (en) * 2015-09-21 2019-10-29 Guangdong Midea Kitchen Appliances Manufacturing Co., Ltd. Microwave heating device

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