Washing Machine Detergent Box Stopper for Wear-Resistant Retention
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing detergent boxes in washing machines are prone to wear down over time due to repeated opening and closing, leading to a loss of the projection that prevents them from falling off, making it difficult to determine if the box is properly placed.
Innovation Solution
A detergent box design featuring a stopper seated in a recess with an elastic rib that provides a soft elastic force, allowing for secure placement and preventing wear down, accompanied by a 'click' sound and tactile feedback when fully inserted, ensuring proper positioning.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a projection structure is used to prevent the detergent box from falling off, then the detergent box is secured in the dispenser, but the projection is worn down due to repeated opening and closing operations
Solution Approach 1:
The stopper is designed to be movable rather than fixed, allowing it to dynamically adjust during insertion and engagement. The stopper moves forward to engage with the recess during closing operation and can be pushed back during opening, distributing wear and preventing permanent deformation of the engagement structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The stopper acts as an intermediary element between the detergent box and the dispenser recess. Instead of direct engagement between rigid structures that cause wear, the stopper provides a compliant interface that absorbs mechanical stress and reduces wear on both the box and dispenser components.
2Reliability
If a projection structure is used to prevent the detergent box from falling off, then the detergent box is secured in the dispenser, but it becomes difficult to determine whether the box is properly placed as the projection wears down
Solution Approach 1:
The engagement between the stopper and recess provides tactile feedback to the user during insertion. When the stopper engages with the recess, it creates a noticeable stop or click that confirms proper placement. This feedback mechanism allows users to verify correct installation without visual inspection or additional indicators.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates visual indicators such as color-coded markings or transparent portions on the detergent box that change appearance or become visible when the box is properly inserted. This provides clear visual feedback to confirm correct placement, complementing the tactile feedback from the stopper engagement.
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 design effectively prevents the detergent box from falling off even when the washing machine is tilted and allows users to easily confirm proper placement through auditory and tactile cues.
Implementation Method 1
the rib provides an elastic force to the stopper
Data Source
AI summary
A detergent box for a washing machine is provided. The detergent box is slidably coupled to a front portion of the washing machine, and has a structure that prevents release of the detergent box from the washing machine even if the washing machine is tilted or shaken, and that facilitates proper placement of the detergent box. The detergent box may include a stopper, and a rib having an elastic slot formed therein. The detergent box holds washing agents, and the dispenser is mounted in the washing machine so as to receive the detergent box therein. The dispenser has a recess for seating the stopper therein as the detergent box is placed in the dispenser. The rib may include an elastic slot to provide an elastic force to the stopper.