A washer/dryer comprising a balance weight
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing washer/dryer designs face issues with unbalanced loads causing wobbling and noise due to the use of concrete balance weights, which crack when attached to plastic tub extensions, and require multiple bolts leading to deformation, increased costs, and production problems.
Innovation Solution
A form-fit connection between the balance weight and tub using a circular connection extension and housing with distributed supports to compensate forces at three axes, eliminating the need for multiple bolts and preventing deformation, with a single connection member ensuring secure attachment and minimizing production issues.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If multiple bolts are used to fix the balance weight to the tub, then the connection strength is improved, but the device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple bolt connections into a single integrated connection member that simultaneously provides form-fit connection through the connection extension and secures the balance weight through the connection housing, eliminating the need for multiple separate bolts and simplifying the mounting process
2Reliability
If multiple connection points are created on the tub, then the mounting reliability is improved, but the manufacturing precision and production quality deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple connection points into a single integrated connection structure where the connection extension and connection housing work together as one unit, reducing the number of separate connection points on the tub from multiple to just one location while maintaining mounting reliability
3Reliability
If the connection member is tightened excessively to prevent dislocation, then the connection reliability is improved, but the balance weight and tub deform due to prestress
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from single-axis screw tightening to three-axis force compensation through the geometric design of the connection extension and connection housing, distributing the connection forces across multiple dimensions to prevent deformation while maintaining connection reliability
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
AI summary
The present invention relates to a washer/dryer (1) comprising a body; a tub (2) which is disposed into the body; a drum which is disposed in the tub (2), which rotates around its own axis and wherein the laundry is loaded; at least one balance weight (3) which is mounted onto the tub (2) and which remains between the tub (2) and the body; a connection member (4) which enables the balance weight (3) to be fixed to the tub (2); a connection hole (5) which is arranged on the balance weight (3) and through which the connection member (4) passes; a fixing housing (16) which surrounds the connection hole (5) at the surface of the balance weight (3) facing the tub (2); and a bearing (6) which is positioned on the tub (2), which extends from the outer surface of the tub (2) towards the balance weight (3) and wherein the connection member (4), passing through the connection hole (5) on the balance weight (3) and extending towards the tub (2), is seated. The tub (2) further comprises a step (7) which surrounds the bearing (6) and a connection extension (9) which surrounds the step (7) such that the bearing (6) is at the center; the balance weight (3) further comprises a connection housing (11) which is arranged on the surface of the balance weight (3) facing the tub (2) and wherein the connection extension (9) is seated.