Dishwasher with at least one spring unit for influencing an open door and corresponding assembly method
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Solution Overview
Problem
The assembly of door weight compensation spring systems in dishwashers is complex, time-consuming, and labor-intensive due to the need for manual tensioning and precise alignment of tension springs and pull cables, making it challenging for mass production and prone to errors.
Innovation Solution
A one-piece holding device integrated with the base support allows for the tension spring device to be inserted as a loose unit, eliminating the need for pre-assembled stamped parts and enabling tensioning only after all components are in place, facilitating automated assembly and reducing manual labor.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If pre-assembled stamped parts are used to secure the tension spring, then the tension spring can be firmly fixed to the stationary area, but the production and assembly become time-consuming and cost-intensive
Solution Approach 1:
The holding device is integrated directly into the base support as a one-piece component, merging two previously separate parts (holding device and base support) into one. This eliminates the need for separate stamped parts and reduces the number of assembly steps, thereby improving productivity while maintaining secure fixation of the tension spring.
2Manufacturing precision
If manual tensioning and precise alignment are required during assembly, then the spring system can be properly installed, but the assembly process becomes complex and labor-intensive
Solution Approach 1:
The holding device is pre-integrated into the base support during manufacturing, so that when the tension spring is installed, the alignment and positioning are already prepared. This preliminary preparation eliminates the need for complex manual alignment and tensioning operations during assembly, reducing both complexity and labor requirements while maintaining precision.
3Extent of automation
If the tension spring device is inserted as a loose unit, then automated assembly becomes possible, but the tension spring must be tensioned only after all components are in place
Solution Approach 1:
The holding device is designed to automatically secure the tension spring in the correct position once inserted, without requiring pre-assembly or complex alignment operations. The integrated structure provides self-aligning features that guide the tension spring into place, enabling automated insertion while the tensioning occurs naturally as part of the installation process rather than as a separate manual operation.
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 simplifies the assembly process, reduces production time and costs, and ensures precise tensioning of the spring system, improving the reliability and consistency of the door weight compensation mechanism.
Implementation Method 1
a system consisting of at least one tension spring and at least one tension cable
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
The dishwasher (1) has a door (3) that is connected through one or multiple spring units (4) with a stationary portion (5). The spring unit has a traction rope and is connected to a mounting position with a tension spring (14). A holding unit (33) is provided for engaging the door with a coil facing away from an end portion of the tension spring. The elongated receiving channel (19) is viewed in cross sectional U-shaped, particularly essentially in stationary portion. An independent claim is included for a method for mounting a spring unit on a dishwasher.