Blade and pump impeller assembly for a dishwasher
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Solution Overview
Problem
Contemporary dishwashers face issues with clogging of the impeller due to debris in the wash liquid, which can lead to reduced drain and wash performance, as larger particles are not effectively broken down before entering the pump.
Innovation Solution
A dishwasher design featuring a cylindrical impeller with radially protruding fins and a cap with integrally formed blades that securely mount to the impeller, helping to chop up particles and prevent clogging by ensuring the impeller remains unobstructed.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a blade is provided on the impeller assembly to chop up particles, then particle breakdown is improved, but the device complexity increases due to additional components
Solution Approach 1:
The blade is integrally formed with the cap, merging two components (blade and cap) into one single piece. This eliminates the need for separate blade attachments while maintaining the particle chopping function, thus improving productivity without increasing device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The cap serves multiple functions: it covers the impeller and simultaneously provides mounting apertures for securing elements and integrates blades for particle chopping. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate components needed, resolving the contradiction between functionality and complexity.
2Reliability
If securing elements are added to prevent blade detachment, then reliability is improved, but the ease of manufacture decreases due to additional assembly steps
Solution Approach 1:
The securing elements are integrally formed with the cap during molding, merging the securing feature into the cap itself. This eliminates separate securing components and simplifies assembly, as the cap is installed as a single piece that inherently secures the blade through its integral design.
Solution Approach 2:
The cap's integral securing elements automatically engage with the impeller base features during installation, providing self-securing functionality. The design ensures proper alignment and retention without requiring additional fastening operations or complex assembly procedures.
Data Source
AI summary
A dishwasher comprising a chassis, a tub supported by the chassis and at least partially defining a treating chamber, and a pump that circulates wash liquid in the treating chamber. The pump has an impeller that has a cover, a base with an axis of rotation, and at least one fin protruding from the base. The impeller also has a cap removably coupled to the impeller and at least one blade integrally formed with the cap.