Detergent Compartment Pivot Partition for Liquid Detergent Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing detergent feeding devices in washing and drying machines lack simple and user-friendly mechanisms for switching between solid and liquid detergent use, often requiring complex mechanisms and additional stop elements to prevent liquid detergent outflow.
Innovation Solution
A detergent feeding device with a pivotable partition element having a horizontal axis, which is inclined to prevent liquid detergent outflow in its first position and rests on a gravity-supported element in its second position, allowing easy switching between detergent types without additional locking mechanisms, and featuring a design that prevents liquid detergent from clogging the pivot bearing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a partition member is used to separate liquid detergent compartment, then liquid detergent can be stored separately, but the mechanism becomes complex requiring multiple bearings and guiding grooves
Solution Approach 1:
The partition member is divided into a first partition part and a second partition part that can move relative to each other. The first partition part remains fixed while the second partition part can be displaced laterally to switch between powder and liquid detergent compartments, simplifying the overall mechanism by eliminating complex guiding grooves and multiple bearings.
Solution Approach 2:
The partition member transitions from a static structure to a dynamic one where the second partition part can be laterally displaced. This dynamic configuration allows the partition to adapt its position based on the detergent type being used, enabling versatile functionality with simpler mechanical means.
2Reliability
If stop elements are added to prevent partition member from swinging back, then liquid detergent leakage is prevented, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The first and second partition parts are designed with asymmetric functionality - the first partition part is fixed while the second partition part is movable. This asymmetry allows the movable part to naturally remain in position due to the structural design and gravity, eliminating the need for additional stop elements to prevent swinging back.
3Ease of operation
If partition member is made movable for detergent switching, then ease of operation improves, but risk of liquid detergent leakage increases
Solution Approach 1:
The first partition part acts as an intermediary structure that remains fixed while the second partition part moves. This intermediary fixed structure provides a stable reference frame that prevents uncontrolled movement and potential liquid detergent leakage while still allowing the second part to be moved for detergent switching.
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
Enables seamless switching between solid and liquid detergent use with reduced mechanical complexity, preventing liquid outflow and clogging, and providing clear user instructions for operation, while maintaining stability without additional securing means.
Implementation Method 1
the pressure of the liquid detergent additionally presses onto the partition element and holds it in its closed position by pressing it against the bottom surface of the detergent compartment
Implementation Method 2
rests on a gravity-supported element in its second position
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a home appliance, in particular washing and/or drying machine (1), comprising a detergent feeding device (2) having at least one detergent storing compartment (4) for storing a detergent, the at least one detergent compartment (4) comprising: an outlet (12) for a detergent and water mixture, and a pivoted partition element (14) arranged in the detergent compartment (4), wherein in a first position the partition element (14) separates a partial compartment (34) in the detergent compartment (4) from the outlet (12) for storing an amount of liquid detergent in the partial compartment, and wherein in a second position the partition element (14) provides passage from the partial compartment to the outlet (12). According to the invention in the first position the partition element (14) is inclined with respect to the bottom (6) of the detergent compartment (4), such that from the first position the partition element can be pivoted to the second position only in one pivoting direction and wherein the pivoting path of the partition portion (16) of the partition element (14) from the first to the second position is partially situated in the partial compartment (34). According to another embodiment of the invention the pivoted partition element (60) has a single pivot rest (62, 64) arranged at the bottom (58) of the detergent compartment (56).