Diverter assembly for dishwasher
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current passive diverter systems in dishwasher appliances face challenges in assembly complexity due to the integration of spring assemblies within the diverter mechanism, especially in designs with a sump, leading to costly and intricate assembly processes.
Innovation Solution
A diverter assembly that includes a diverter disk moveable along an axial direction, utilizing an upper spring guide, a return spring, and a lower spring guide to facilitate easy assembly and efficient operation, allowing the diverter disk to return to a resting position using spring force without the need for precise complex installation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a spring assembly is integrated into the diverter mechanism, then the diverter can return to resting position using spring force, but the assembly process becomes complex and costly
Solution Approach 1:
The spring assembly is segmented into modular components: a spring retainer attached to the diverter disk, a return spring, and a spring guide. This segmentation allows each component to be manufactured separately and assembled in a simplified sequence, reducing overall assembly complexity while maintaining the reliable return function.
2Reliability
If numerous small parts are contained within the diverter assembly, then the spring function is achieved, but alignment and assembly become difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The spring retainer is merged with the diverter disk by attaching the retainer directly to the disk, creating a unified component assembly. This merging reduces the number of separate parts that require alignment and simplifies the overall assembly process while maintaining the spring mechanism's reliable function.
3Force
If spring force is used instead of gravity, then stronger force is available for moving the diverter disk, but the assembly becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The return spring is designed to automatically engage with the spring retainer and spring guide during assembly, allowing the spring mechanism to self-assemble to some extent. This self-service approach provides strong force for diverter disk movement while reducing assembly difficulty through intuitive component interaction.
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 solution simplifies the assembly process and enhances the diverter's effectiveness between fluid patterns, reducing the complexity and cost associated with integrating spring assemblies, while maintaining the benefits of a passive system without the need for motors.
Implementation Method 1
Some diverter assemblies include a passive diverter disk that rotates, physically selecting a mode or flow path for fluid from a selection of flow paths or different modes by adjusting the position of the diverter disk. Some diverter disks may also move up and down to control the flow of fluid through the diverter in between modes.
Implementation Method 2
it can be difficult to implement a spring into the design of such diverters. Assembling a spring assembly within the diverter assembly in addition to aligning parts that coordinate the rotational movement of the diverter disk is often a complex process.
Data Source
AI summary
A dishwasher is provided having a diverter assembly. The diverter assembly may include a diverter disk moveable between an upper and a lower position. The diverter disk may include a diverter head defining an opening and a radial center, and a disk boss attached to the diverter head at a radial center of the diverter head. The disk boss may define a disk channel extending below the diverter head. The diverter disk may further include an upper spring guide extending below the disk boss and located within the disk channel, a return spring extending below the upper spring guide within the disk channel, and a lower spring guide extending through the return spring. The return spring may have a top end attached to the upper spring guide and a bottom end attached to the lower spring guide.