Washing and/or drying machine
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fasteners for washing and/or drying machines are difficult to assemble and disassemble safely and efficiently, leading to insecure attachment and potential operational issues.
Innovation Solution
A clamping framework with a toothed connecting device allows for easy assembly and disassembly by using two releasably connected frames that can be unlocked by exerting force perpendicular to the surface, featuring flexible tabs and toothed profiles for secure engagement and disengagement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional fasteners (lugs and bosses) are used to attach the sleeve, then the attachment is secured, but the assembly and disassembly process becomes difficult and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The clamping framework is divided into two separate frames that can be independently manipulated. Each frame has its own toothed profile engagement points, allowing the assembly to be split into manageable parts for easier handling during assembly and disassembly while maintaining secure attachment when connected
Solution Approach 2:
The toothed connecting device incorporates flexible tabs that can dynamically deform during the assembly and disassembly process. When force is applied perpendicular to the framework surface, the flexible tabs bend to allow toothed profiles to disengage, enabling easy dismantling. During normal operation, the tabs remain rigid to maintain secure connection
2Device complexity
If traditional fasteners are used, then the structure remains simple, but the assembly and disassembly process becomes slow and inefficient
Solution Approach 1:
The flexible tabs provide dynamic response to assembly forces. When force is applied perpendicular to the framework, the tabs deform to facilitate quick disengagement of toothed profiles. This dynamic mechanism enables rapid assembly and disassembly without requiring complex tools or procedures, significantly improving productivity while maintaining structural simplicity
Solution Approach 2:
The toothed connecting device with flexible tabs is designed to be self-operating during assembly and disassembly. When force is applied perpendicular to the framework surface, the flexible tabs automatically deform to allow toothed profiles to disengage without requiring additional tools or complex mechanisms, enabling quick and efficient assembly operations
3Stability of the object's composition
If rigid connecting structures are used, then the connection is stable during operation, but the assembly and disassembly process becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The flexible tabs create a dynamic connection system that adapts to different operational states. During assembly and disassembly, the tabs deform to allow easy manipulation and separation of the toothed profiles. During normal machine operation, the tabs maintain a rigid, stable connection that ensures reliable attachment of the sleeve, thus achieving both stability and ease of operation
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention is related to a washing and/or drying machine, comprising: a housing (C) having an access opening (5); a rotating drum (2); a tub (T) having a tub opening (8) and enclosing the rotating drum (2); a sleeve (11) disposed between the access opening (5) of the housing (C) and the tub opening (8) of the tub (T); at least one clamping framework (12) surrounding at least one end of the sleeve (11) to fasten the sleeve (11) to the housing (C) and/or to the tub (T). The clamping framework (12) comprises a first, preferably U-shaped, frame (13) and a second, preferably U-shaped, frame (14) and at least one connecting device (16) configured to releasably connect the first frame (13) to the second frame (14). The connecting device (16) comprises a first part (15) provided with a first toothed profile (21) engaging a second part (17) provided with a second toothed profile (29). The teeth of said first and second toothed profiles (21, 29 project substantially perpendicular to a surface (S) on which the clamping framework (12) lies.