Dishwasher Decorative Panel Coupling System for Simplified Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing solutions for installing and aligning decorative front panels on integrated appliances, such as dishwashers, are cumbersome and require manual handling, making the process laborious and often requiring assistance, especially in confined spaces.
Innovation Solution
A coupling system for the dishwasher that includes a support member, a sliding member, and a regulation group with a rotatable screw, allowing for easy alignment and adjustment of the decorative front panel without the need for manual lifting or additional assistance, using a snap-fit element for secure engagement and a rotatable screw for precise positioning.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If manual lifting and positioning of the decorative front panel is used, then alignment precision can be achieved, but the installation process becomes laborious and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling system is pre-assembled with the support member attached to the door panel before the decorative front panel installation. The sliding member is pre-positioned with the snap-fit element ready to engage with the panel, eliminating the need for manual lifting and positioning during installation.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling system acts as an intermediary mechanism between the door panel and the decorative front panel. It provides a standardized interface that automatically guides and secures the panel in the correct position, replacing manual alignment operations.
2Manufacturing precision
If manual positioning of the decorative front panel is required, then alignment can be achieved, but additional assistance is needed
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling system is designed to be self-positioning through the sliding member that moves along the support member until the snap-fit element automatically engages with the decorative front panel. The system performs its own positioning function without requiring external manual intervention.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling system serves as an automatic intermediary mechanism that takes over the positioning task from human operators. The regulated movement mechanism automatically guides the sliding member to the correct position and secures it there.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the decorative front panel is installed in confined spaces, then integration with furniture is achieved, but manual handling becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling system is divided into separate components: the support member attached to the door panel, the sliding member that moves independently, and the snap-fit element that provides automatic engagement. This segmentation allows the components to be assembled in confined spaces without requiring large manual manipulation movements.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling system acts as an intermediary that bridges the gap between the fixed door panel and the decorative front panel in confined installation spaces. The regulated movement mechanism provides controlled motion within limited space constraints.
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
Facilitates fast and easy installation and regulation of the decorative front panel, reducing the need for manual handling and assistance, and is suitable for use in tight spaces, enhancing the efficiency and simplicity of the installation process.
Implementation Method 1
a sliding member (210) coupled to the decorative front panel (140) and slidably coupled to the support member (205) for sliding with respect and parallel thereto
Implementation Method 2
a regulation group (215) comprising a rotatable regulation member (219) and a conversion member (217) coupled to the regulation member (219) and to the sliding member (210) for converting a rotation of the regulation member (219) into said sliding of the sliding member (210)
Implementation Method 3
The sliding member (210) comprises an engaging element (210SF) for engaging a respective panel pin (145) of the decorative front panel (140)
Data Source
AI summary
A dishwasher may include a frame defining a treatment chamber for items to be washed; a door for selectively accessing the treatment chamber, the door including a door panel; and at least one coupling system for coupling a decorative front panel to the door panel. The at least one coupling system may include a support member coupled to the door panel; a sliding member coupled to the decorative front panel and slidably coupled to the support member for sliding with respect and parallel thereto, such that the sliding of the sliding member with respect to the support member causes the sliding of the decorative front panel with respect to the door panel; and a regulation group including a rotatable regulation member that can be rotated by a user and a conversion member coupled to the regulation member and to the sliding member for converting a rotation of the regulation member into the sliding of the sliding member.