Collapsible Packing Spacer for Washing Machine Transport Shocks
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current spacers used during packing and transport of washing machines do not adequately absorb shocks and dissipate energy, leading to potential damage from high mechanical stress and impacts, necessitating additional devices to prevent oscillating assembly damage.
Innovation Solution
A new spacer design featuring a collapsible portion with elastically deformable components that collapse under compression, dissipating impact energy through friction between collapsed parts, providing enhanced shock-absorbing properties.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If elastic connection means are mounted to preserve structural integrity during operation, then the oscillating assembly can withstand high mechanical stress during rotation, but the oscillating assembly becomes vulnerable to heavy impacts and shaking during packing and transport operations
Solution Approach 1:
The spacer transitions from a rigid static structure to a dynamic energy-absorbing structure through the collapsible portion that deforms under impact loads. The elastic deformable component allows the spacer to adapt its rigidity based on operational conditions - rigid during normal operation to maintain structural integrity, and compliant during transport to absorb shocks.
Solution Approach 2:
The collapsible portion with elastically deformable component is pre-designed to collapse at a predetermined force threshold, creating a cushioning effect before impacts can cause damage to the oscillating assembly. This preemptive energy absorption mechanism protects against transport shocks without interfering with operational reliability.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If a rigid spacer is used to prevent oscillations during transport, then the oscillating assembly is secured against the cabinet wall, but the spacer cannot absorb impact energy and may cause structural damage
Solution Approach 1:
The collapsible portion converts the harmful impact energy from transport shocks into beneficial elastic deformation and frictional heat. The elastically deformable component absorbs impact energy through controlled collapse, transforming the harmful mechanical stress into harmless thermal energy through friction between collapsed surfaces.
Solution Approach 2:
The spacer's mechanical properties change dynamically based on applied load. Under normal transport conditions, the spacer maintains rigid positioning to prevent oscillations. Under impact conditions exceeding the predetermined force threshold, the collapsible portion changes its structural parameters by collapsing, thereby absorbing energy and protecting the oscillating assembly.
3Loss of energy
If traditional bi-component spacers with rubber collars are used, then the spacers can provide some elastic compression, but they lack sufficient shock-absorbing and energy dissipation properties under high compression
Solution Approach 1:
The invention merges the positioning function and energy absorption function into a single integrated spacer structure. The collapsible portion with elastically deformable component combines the rigid bearing surface needed for positioning with the elastic deformation capability for energy dissipation, eliminating the need for separate rubber collar components while achieving superior energy absorption.
Solution Approach 2:
The spacer utilizes composite construction combining rigid plastic material for the main body with elastically deformable components in the collapsible portion. This composite approach integrates materials with different mechanical properties to achieve both structural integrity and shock absorption in a unified component design.
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 spacer effectively limits structural damage during transport and storage by absorbing shocks and distributing forces, ensuring the oscillating assembly remains securely connected to the cabinet, reducing the risk of impact-related damage.
Implementation Method 1
its elastically deformable components collapse when the spacer is subject to compression beyond a preset threshold value
Implementation Method 2
with consequent dissipation of the impact strength because of collapse and then because of friction between the collapsed parts in mutual rubbing
Data Source
Figure 1~3A
Figure 4~5A
Figure 6~7A
AI summary
A packaging spacer for washing machines, of the type comprising a tubular cylindrical stem (20) and a pedestal (30), both crossed by an axial conduit (50) for a fixing screw (VF) of the spacer, which is provided, in correspondence of said cylindrical stem (20), with a collapsible portion (A) provided with interfaced means (25b and 26b) adapted to be elastically deformed when compressed, and also adapted to break if said compression exceeds a preset threshold value.