Bottom-Mounted Detergent Box Layout for Easier Washer Refilling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional detergent supply systems in washing machines are cumbersome, with detergent boxes located at the top, making them difficult to operate and having a poor external shape, which affects 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detergent supply apparatus is integrated into the bottom of the washing machine, featuring a detergent box that can be withdrawn with one touch, equipped with a pump for automatic detergent and fabric softener dispensing, and a design that improves the machine's external shape and usability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the detergent box is located at the top of the washing machine body, then the detergent supply function is achieved, but the operation becomes difficult and the external shape deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The detergent box is moved from the conventional top position to the bottom position of the washing machine body. This inversion of the detergent supply location improves both accessibility (easier operation) and external appearance, while the door guide structure integrates the detergent box cover mounting to maintain aesthetic continuity.
2Ease of operation
If the detergent box is made withdrawable, then usability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The door guide structure is merged with the detergent box cover mounting function. The door guide includes an incision portion that integrates the opening for detergent box cover removal, combining door guidance and detergent access functions into a single structural element, thereby reducing overall device complexity.
3Shape
If the detergent supply apparatus is located on the bottom inside the body, then the external shape is improved, but the storage capacity may be reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The detergent box is designed to utilize the vertical space at the bottom of the washing machine body, extending upward along the door guide structure. This dimensional optimization allows adequate storage capacity while maintaining the bottom-mounted configuration that improves external appearance.
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 allowing easy access to detergent and fabric softener, improves the washing machine's design aesthetics, and increases storage capacity for detergents, making the operation more convenient and user-friendly.
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.