Dishwasher Base Assembly Using Press-Fit Panel and Beam Sockets
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Solution Overview
Problem
Contemporary automatic dishwashers face challenges with base structures, as metal bases require complex and expensive fasteners for assembly, while plastic bases are difficult to modify and update over the product life cycle.
Innovation Solution
A dishwasher base composed of spaced panels and beams, where terminal ends of the beams are inserted into sockets of the panels, providing a press-fit or fastened connection, allowing for easy assembly and reduced use of mechanical fasteners, and incorporating plastic panels for versatility and cost-effectiveness.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If metal base structures are used with fasteners, then structural strength is improved, but device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical fastening systems (screws, bolts, brackets) with a press-fit mechanical insertion system where plastic base panels are inserted into metal frame sockets. This substitution eliminates the need for separate fasteners and complex assembly procedures while maintaining structural integrity through the friction and geometric interlocking of the press-fit connection.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a composite base structure combining plastic panels (providing flexibility and absorption properties) with metal frame elements (providing structural strength and rigidity). This composite approach allows each material to contribute its advantageous properties, achieving both strength and ease of assembly/modification without requiring complex fastening systems.
2Adaptability or versatility
If plastic base structures are used, then ease of modification is improved, but manufacturing cost and tooling complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the base structure into separate modular components: plastic panels and metal frame elements with sockets. This segmentation allows the plastic panels to be easily manufactured using injection molding (a cost-effective process) and enables simple modification by replacing individual panels without requiring expensive custom tooling for entire base structures.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes the versatility of plastic material properties and injection molding parameters to create panels with specific geometries that provide both structural function and ease of assembly. By changing manufacturing parameters rather than tooling designs, the system achieves adaptability at low cost.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If plastic components are used in base structure, then impact absorption during shipping is improved, but structural strength may be reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a hybrid base structure where plastic panels provide impact absorption during shipping due to their inherent damping properties, while metal frame elements with rigid sockets provide the necessary structural strength and rigidity. The combination ensures both protection during transport and structural integrity during operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies different material qualities to different functional requirements: plastic panels are used where impact absorption and flexibility are needed, while metal frame elements are used where structural strength and rigidity are critical. This local optimization of material properties resolves the contradiction between impact absorption and structural strength.
Data Source
AI summary
A dishwasher with a tub defining a treating chamber having an access opening. A closure selectively closes the access opening and a base supports the tub. The base can include a set of spaced panels and a set of spaced beams connecting the set of panels. The base can be formed by inserting the set of spaced beams within the set of spaced panels.