Convertible Dishwasher Door for Independent Dual-Chamber Access

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional dishwashers often lack the ability to independently operate multiple compartments, limiting flexibility in washing cycles and access configurations.

Innovation Solution

A dishwasher design featuring a tub with two separate treating chambers, each with its own sprayer system and access mechanism, allowing for independent operation and access modes through a convertible door system that can switch between a partial door mode for single compartment access and a full door mode for dual compartment access.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a single door is used for both compartments, then the structure is simple, but the ability to independently access and operate compartments is limited

Engineering Contradiction:

ImproveIndependent compartment access and operation capabilityVSAvoidDoor structure complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The door assembly is segmented into a first door portion and a second door portion, each independently hinged to the tub. The first door portion provides access to the first compartment while the second door portion provides access to the second compartment, enabling independent access and operation of each compartment without requiring a complex multi-mode door mechanism.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

2Productivity

If multiple separate drawers are used for each compartment, then independent operation is achieved, but the device complexity and space requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:

ImproveWashing efficiency through simultaneous independent cyclesVSAvoidCompartment configuration complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The dishwasher combines multiple treating chambers (first and second compartments) within a single integrated tub structure, rather than using separate drawers. Each compartment has its own sprayer system and can operate independently, achieving high productivity through simultaneous cycles while maintaining a compact, space-efficient design.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

Instead of arranging compartments vertically as stacked drawers, the invention uses a side-by-side horizontal arrangement of the first and second compartments within the tub. This dimensional change allows both compartments to be accessed independently through their respective door portions while maximizing space utilization and enabling simultaneous operation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

3Adaptability or versatility

If a fixed door configuration is used, then the structure is simple, but the flexibility to accommodate different washing needs is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:

ImproveFlexibility for different washing cycles and access configurationsVSAvoidUser convenience in accessing different compartments

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Data Source

PatentUS10004379B2Dishwasher with transforming door

Publication Date: 2018.06.26 WHIRLPOOL CORP

AI summary

A multiple chamber dishwasher has a door with multiple parts that can be linked for cooperative movement in a first mode and unlinked for independent movement in a second mode. A mode selector operatively coupled to a transformation link that effects conversion of the door between the first and second modes allows user selection of the door mode and can be associated with a door handle.