Bottom-Mounted Detergent Box Layout for Easier Washer Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional detergent supply systems in washing machines are cumbersome, with detergent boxes often located at the top, making them difficult to operate and having a poor external shape, which detracts from usability and aesthetics.
Innovation Solution
A detergent supply apparatus is integrated into the bottom of the washing machine, featuring a detergent box that can be withdrawn easily with one touch, utilizing a pump system to automatically supply liquid detergent and fabric softener, improving storage capacity and user convenience.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If the detergent box is located at the top of the washing machine body, then the detergent supply apparatus can be installed, but the operation panel becomes difficult to operate and the external shape deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The detergent box is relocated from the top horizontal position to the bottom vertical position within the door guide structure. This dimensional change allows the detergent box to be accessed from the front below the operation panel, maintaining ease of operation while preserving the detergent supply function.
Solution Approach 2:
The detergent box is designed as a separate, detachable component that can be independently removed from the door guide. This segmentation allows the detergent box to be accessed and operated separately from the main washing machine body, improving accessibility without affecting the operation panel.
2Ease of operation
If the detergent box is made withdrawable for easy access, then usability improves, but the structural complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The detergent box utilizes the door guide's existing movement capabilities to achieve automatic positioning and withdrawal. When the door opens or closes, the detergent box moves accordingly, providing self-service functionality without requiring additional complex mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The door guide structure serves multiple functions: it guides door movement, positions the detergent box, and enables detergent box withdrawal. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate mechanisms, thereby limiting the increase in structural complexity.
3Ease of operation
If the detergent box is integrated into the door guide at the bottom, then external shape improves and operation becomes easier, but the storage capacity may be reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The detergent box is designed with dynamic dimensions that can expand or contract based on the door guide's movement. When the door opens, the detergent box can extend to provide additional storage space, while maintaining a compact form when closed, thus preserving storage capacity despite the relocated position.
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
The solution enhances usability by simplifying detergent access and improving the machine's external design, while ensuring efficient and automatic detergent dispensing during washing cycles.
Implementation Method 1
a detergent supply pump provided to discharge a detergent in the detergent box
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed herein is a washing machine that includes a tub disposed in a main body of the washing machine to store water. A circulation apparatus includes a circulation pump operable to circulate the water in and out of the tub. A detergent supply apparatus is coupled to the circulation apparatus to discharge detergent to the circulation apparatus so that operation of the circulation pump causes the discharged detergent to be supplied to the tub.