Dishwasher Door Assembly with Indirect Controller Switch Actuation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional dishwasher door assemblies often face challenges in integrating user interfaces and controllers in a space-efficient manner, with components like switches and actuators requiring complex wiring and assembly, which can increase costs and reduce part lifetimes.
Innovation Solution
A dishwasher door assembly design featuring a controller switch inaccessible from the exterior, actuated by a movable actuator with two spaced ends, where one end is user-accessible and the other is mechanically coupled to the controller, allowing for actuation without external exposure, and incorporating an optical waveguide for light direction and fluid protection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the controller switch is made accessible from the exterior of the door, then the ease of operation is improved, but the reliability deteriorates due to fluid exposure and complex wiring requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary mechanical coupling system between the exterior actuator and the interior controller switch. This coupling mechanism transmits actuation force through the door structure without direct fluid exposure, serving as a mediator that protects the switch while maintaining operability. The coupling includes mechanical elements that transfer motion and force from the exterior actuator to the interior switch without requiring the switch to be externally accessible.
2Device complexity
If the controller and switches are integrated within the door assembly, then the device complexity is reduced, but the ease of manufacture deteriorates due to precise alignment requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the door assembly into distinct functional modules: the controller module, the actuator module, and the mechanical coupling module. This segmentation allows each component to be manufactured and tested independently, then assembled together. The coupling mechanism is designed as a separate intermediary component that simplifies the interface between the actuator and controller, reducing the precision requirements for direct integration while maintaining overall system functionality.
3Reliability
If the actuator is positioned away from the controller switch, then the reliability is improved by protecting the switch from fluid exposure, but the device complexity increases due to the coupling mechanism
Solution Approach 1:
The mechanical coupling acts as an intermediary element that bridges the spatial gap between the exterior actuator and the interior controller switch. This coupling mechanism is designed to be robust and simple in structure, using basic mechanical elements to transmit force and motion reliably. By positioning the switch away from the exterior while maintaining a simple coupling design, the patent achieves fluid protection without excessive complexity.
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
This design enhances user interface placement on space-limited areas, reduces assembly costs, improves switch functionality, and protects electronic components from fluid exposure, while maintaining efficient operation and durability.
Implementation Method 1
incorporating an optical waveguide for light direction and fluid protection
Data Source
AI summary
A dishwasher door assembly can include a door with an exterior surface bounding an interior space, a controller with a controller switch that is inaccessible from the exterior of the door and actuatable by movement in a first direction, and an actuator, accessible from the exterior of the door, and moveable in a second direction different from the first direction, such that movement of the actuator in the second direction actuates the controller switch in the first direction.