Integrated collapsible platform for a domestic appliance
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Solution Overview
Problem
The increasing size of laundry appliances, particularly vertical axis or top load machines, makes it difficult for users to access and retrieve laundry items from the bottom of the basket due to elevated height and depth, compromising usability.
Innovation Solution
An articulating platform assembly that can be attached to the cabinet of the laundry machine, allowing it to pivot between open and closed positions, providing an elevated surface for easier access and supporting the placement of laundry baskets or hampers, and adjustable legs for height adjustment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If the size of laundry appliances is increased to handle larger laundry loads, then the capacity and volume are improved, but the accessibility for users to reach the bottom of the basket deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an articulating platform assembly as an intermediary structure between the user and the laundry basket. This platform provides a raised surface that bridges the height gap created by larger appliance designs, allowing users to access items at the bottom of the basket without straining. The platform acts as a mediator that transfers the user's weight and provides support at an intermediate height level.
Solution Approach 2:
The articulating platform assembly incorporates movable and adjustable components that allow it to adapt to different usage scenarios. The platform can articulate between different positions and the support legs can be adjusted to various heights, providing dynamic adaptability to accommodate different user needs and appliance configurations while maintaining ease of access.
2Length of stationary object
If the height of laundry appliances is increased, then the capacity is improved, but the ease of placing items into the basket deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The articulating platform assembly serves as an intermediary surface that reduces the vertical distance users must reach to place items into the laundry basket. By providing a raised platform at an intermediate height, users can transfer items from a lower position to the basket without lifting their arms as high, making the operation easier despite the increased appliance height.
3Volume of moving object
If the basket depth is increased to handle larger loads, then the capacity is improved, but the accessibility to retrieve items from the bottom deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The articulating platform assembly acts as a mediator that provides a support surface at an intermediate height within the appliance. This allows users to reach items at the bottom of the deeper basket without having to extend their arms as far down, as the platform provides a stable surface to work from and reduces the effective depth users must access.
Solution Approach 2:
The articulating nature of the platform assembly allows it to be positioned optimally to bridge the depth gap. The platform can articulate to provide support at the most effective height for accessing items in the deep basket, adapting to the specific depth requirements of different appliance configurations.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enhances user accessibility and usability by providing a convenient means to reach the bottom of the drum and adjust the appliance's height, addressing the challenges posed by larger appliance sizes.
Implementation Method 1
the platform base pivots with respect to the rear platform support structure
Implementation Method 2
the front platform support structure being movable between a first position and a second position
Data Source
AI summary
An articulating platform assembly for a home appliance includes a bracket selectively coupled to a cabinet support structure of the home appliance, a first platform support structure extending from the bracket along the vertical direction, a platform base rotatably coupled to the first platform support structure, wherein the platform base pivots with respect to the first platform support structure between an open position and a closed position; and a second platform support structure pivotally attached to the platform base opposite the first platform support structure, the second platform support structure being movable between a first position and a second position.