Dishwasher door with counterbalance assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional dishwasher door counterbalancing systems do not effectively provide varying counterbalancing forces throughout the range of rotation, limiting functionalities such as true-hold, auto-close, and slow-open.
Innovation Solution
A counterbalance assembly comprising a guide member with a rotatable pulley and a cam of varying radius, coupled with a biasing member, applies a varying counterbalancing force to the dishwasher door, allowing for control of torques to achieve desired functions like true-hold, auto-close, and slow-open across the door's operational range.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a conventional counterbalancing system is used, then the door can be opened and closed, but it cannot effectively provide varying counterbalancing forces throughout the range of rotation, limiting functionalities like true-hold, auto-close, and slow-open
Solution Approach 1:
The counterbalance assembly uses a cam mechanism with variable radius that changes position as the door rotates, dynamically adjusting the counterbalancing force throughout the door's range of motion. This allows the system to provide different levels of support at different angles, enabling true-hold, auto-close, and slow-open functionalities without requiring multiple separate mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the geometric parameter of the cam profile (variable radius from center) to modify the mechanical advantage and counterbalancing force characteristics. By designing the cam with specific radial variations, the system can control the magnitude and direction of forces applied to the door at different rotation angles, achieving multiple operational modes from a single assembly.
2Ease of operation
If a simple counterbalance mechanism is used, then the structure remains simple, but precise control of door movement and positioning is not achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The cam acts as an intermediary element between the door's rotational motion and the counterbalancing force application. As the door rotates, the cam's variable profile mediates the transmission of force, smoothly transitioning between different force magnitudes and directions. This intermediary mechanism provides precise control over door movement characteristics without requiring complex electronic or mechanical control systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The cam profile utilizes curved surfaces with varying radii to control the mechanical interaction. The spherical or curved geometry of the cam allows for smooth, continuous variation in force application as the door moves through its range of motion, enabling precise positioning and controlled movement patterns through purely mechanical means.
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 precise control of door movement and positioning, enhancing user experience by ensuring smooth operation, automatic closing, and controlled opening, while maintaining equilibrium between torques to achieve specific functional outcomes.
Implementation Method 1
a biasing member, applies a varying counterbalancing force to the dishwasher door
Implementation Method 2
a guide member having a rotatable pulley rotating about a pulley axis of rotation
Implementation Method 3
a cam affixed to one side of the pulley and having a varying radius from the pulley
Data Source
AI summary
A method of counterbalancing a dishwasher door pivotal about a range of rotation between an opened position and a closed position on a dishwasher cabinet. The method comprises applying a varying counterbalancing force to the dishwasher door throughout the range of rotation to effect at least two of true-hold, auto-close, or slow-open of the door.