Dishwasher Control Module Retaining Contour for Tool-Free Removal

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Solution Overview

Problem

The existing design of dishwashers makes it difficult to access and disassemble the electronic control module, complicating both assembly and programming, especially since it is typically integrated into the assembly base and not easily removable.

Innovation Solution

The electronic control module is supported by a retaining contour on the wash compartment base wall, which is separate from the assembly base, allowing for easier assembly and disassembly, with integrated positioning stops and an elastically adjustable locking element for secure positioning and tool-free operation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If the electronic control module is integrated into the assembly base, then the assembly structure is compact, but the accessibility and disassembly of the control module becomes difficult

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveAccessibility of electronic control moduleVSAvoidAssembly structure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The retaining contour is segmented from the assembly base and integrated into the wash compartment base wall instead. This segmentation allows the electronic control module to be accessed and disassembled independently from the assembly base, improving accessibility while maintaining structural integrity through the retaining contour's integration with the wash compartment.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The electronic control module is extracted from direct integration with the assembly base and repositioned on the wash compartment base wall. This extraction enables easier access and disassembly of the control module without requiring disassembly of the entire assembly base structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

2Ease of manufacture

If the electronic control module is positioned on the assembly base, then the assembly is simplified, but subsequent disassembly and programming becomes complicated

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveAssembly simplicityVSAvoidDisassembly and programming accessibility
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSEase of repair

Solution Approach 1:

The retaining contour is separated from the assembly base and integrated into the wash compartment base wall. This segmentation creates an independent mounting location that simplifies assembly while enabling easy disassembly and programming access without complicating the overall assembly process.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The wash compartment base wall serves as an intermediary structure between the assembly base and the electronic control module. This intermediary provides a convenient mounting location that maintains assembly simplicity while facilitating easy access for disassembly and programming operations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Ease of manufacture

If the retaining contour is integrated in the base wall, then manufacturing is simplified, but the assembly space for the control module is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveBase wall production simplicityVSAvoidAssembly space for electronic control module
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSVolume of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The retaining contour is merged with the wash compartment base wall as an integrated feature. This merging simplifies manufacturing by producing the base wall and retaining contour as a single piece, while the retaining contour's design provides sufficient assembly space for the electronic control module through its geometric configuration.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

4Length of moving object

If the electronic control module protrudes into the assembly space, then the electrical line installation length is reduced, but the available space for other appliance components is decreased

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveElectrical line installation lengthVSAvoidAssembly space for appliance components
Core Design Contradiction:
Length of moving objectVSVolume of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The electronic control module is positioned in a different spatial dimension by mounting it on the wash compartment base wall rather than the assembly base. This dimensional change allows the module to protrude into the assembly space, reducing electrical line length, while the retaining contour's design ensures sufficient space remains for other appliance components through optimized spatial arrangement.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

Data Source

PatentUS8327862B2Dishwasher
Publication Date: 2012.12.11 BSH HAUSGERATE GMBH
  • US8327862B2 patent drawing
  • US8327862B2 patent drawing
  • US8327862B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A dishwasher comprising a wash compartment with a base wall that has a retaining contour, and an electronic control module supported by the retaining contour and which controls appliance components in the dishwasher.