Detergent Case Locking Device for Consistent Force and Reliable Supply
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing detergent supply devices in washing machines face challenges with complex connection structures between the washing machine case and the detergent container, leading to inconsistent resistance forces during opening and closing, making it difficult to combine and separate them properly, which can result in inadequate detergent supply or improper timing.
Innovation Solution
A locking device with a first locking member in the washing machine's main body and a second locking member in the detergent case, featuring inclined surfaces and a rotation shaft, is used to securely connect and disconnect the detergent case, assisted by an elastic member for consistent force application, improving usability and ease of operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a complex connection structure is used between the washing machine case and detergent container, then the detergent supply function is improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates due to inconsistent resistance forces and difficulty in combining and separating
Solution Approach 1:
The connection structure is divided into two separate locking members: a first locking member fixed to the washing machine case and a second locking member attached to the detergent container. This segmentation allows each locking member to be independently designed and positioned, simplifying the overall connection mechanism while maintaining reliable detergent supply function.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of using a complex multi-component connection structure, the patent inverts the approach by using a simple locking member pair with inclined surfaces that work in opposition. The second locking member's inclined surface interacts with the first locking member's inclined surface to provide consistent resistance force during opening and closing operations.
2Ease of operation
If the connection structure between detergent container and washing machine case is simplified, then the ease of operation is improved, but the reliability of detergent supply may deteriorate due to insufficient locking
Solution Approach 1:
The locking members incorporate inclined surfaces (curved/angled geometry) that provide smooth engagement and disengagement. The inclined surfaces allow the locking members to glide past each other during opening and closing, ensuring reliable locking while maintaining ease of operation. This curved geometry eliminates abrupt mechanical transitions that could cause operational difficulty.
3Reliability
If a locking device with multiple components is used, then the reliability of connection is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the locking and unlocking functions into a single integrated mechanism. The first locking member and second locking member work together as a unified system where the inclined surfaces of both members interact to provide both secure locking and easy release. This merging eliminates the need for separate locking and unlocking mechanisms, reducing overall device complexity while maintaining connection stability.
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 improved locking structure ensures a consistent force for opening and closing the detergent case, preventing accidental release or failure in detergent supply, thus enhancing the reliability and user experience by maintaining a constant force for dosing and ensuring proper detergent delivery.
Implementation Method 1
an elastic member to elastically support the second locking member
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed is a detergent supply device having an improved locking structure and a washing machine including the same. The washing machine includes a main body, a tub disposed inside the main body to accommodate water, a detergent case configured to supply a detergent to the tub, and a locking device configured to detachably connect the detergent case to the main body, wherein the locking device includes a first locking member disposed in the main body, and a second locking member disposed in the detergent case to unlock or lock the first locking member by being pressed or released.