Dishwasher Door Opening Mechanism for Damage-Free Manual Closing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing dishwasher door opening mechanisms can be damaged when users try to close the partially opened door at the end of the washing and drying processes, as the reverse motion strains the components of the door opening mechanism.
Innovation Solution
A door opening mechanism comprising a first shaft, a second shaft, and a helical spring, actuated by a solenoid or electric motor, which partially opens the dishwasher door by stretching or compressing the spring, allowing vapor discharge and preventing damage to other components when the door is closed.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If the door opening mechanism uses a linear actuator to push the door open, then the door can be automatically opened for vapor discharge, but the mechanism becomes vulnerable to damage when users attempt to close the door manually
Solution Approach 1:
The door opening mechanism is segmented into two independent shafts: a first shaft connected to the linear actuator for automatic opening, and a second shaft for manual closing. This segmentation allows each shaft to handle specific functions independently, preventing damage to the actuator when users manually close the door.
Solution Approach 2:
A spring is introduced as an intermediary element between the first and second shafts. The spring transmits force from the actuator to the door while allowing independent movement of the second shaft during manual closing operations, thereby protecting the actuator from reverse motion damage.
2Device complexity
If the door opening mechanism components are rigidly connected, then the structure is simple, but reverse motion during manual door closing strains and damages the components
Solution Approach 1:
The mechanism transitions from a rigid connection to a dynamic system where the spring can compress and extend. This dynamic element allows the mechanism to adapt to both automatic opening and manual closing operations without strain, as the spring absorbs reverse motion forces.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring's elastic properties change the mechanical parameters of the system, allowing force transmission in both directions. During automatic opening, the spring extends to push the door; during manual closing, the spring compresses to absorb reverse forces, preventing component damage.
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 mechanism enables efficient vapor discharge and prevents damage to the door opening mechanism by compressing only the spring during door closure, ensuring effective and safe operation.
Implementation Method 1
a spring which is located between the first shaft and the second shaft and which can be stretched or compressed in the same direction as the first shaft and the second shaft, in the direction of opening-closing motion of the door. The spring is preferably of helical type
Implementation Method 2
a spring which is located between the first shaft and the second shaft and which can be stretched or compressed
Implementation Method 3
a linear actuator such as a solenoid or electric motor
Implementation Method 4
a linear actuator such as a solenoid or electric motor
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to a dishwasher (1) comprising a body (2), a door (3) which provides access into the body (2) and opens from the top downwards by rotating around the horizontal axis, a door latch (4) which provides the door (3) to be locked, and a door opening mechanism (6) having a linear actuator (5) that provides the door (3) to be opened automatically at the end of the washing and drying processes such that some gap remains between the door (3) and the body (2).