Dishwasher with an ejection device

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing dishwasher ejection devices have a short service life due to exposure to process chemicals, water, and high temperatures, leading to functional failures and increased maintenance costs.

Innovation Solution

A dishwasher with a 'push-to-open mechanism' where the ejection device is partially arranged outside the body, featuring a pivotable switching means inside and a coupling element outside, protected from the washing compartment atmosphere, using a tension spring and guide unit for secure positioning and energy storage.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If the ejection device is arranged inside the washing compartment, then it can directly interact with the pull-out part, but it is exposed to process chemicals, water, and high temperatures which reduces its service life

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedirect interaction with pull-out partVSAvoidservice life of ejection device

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The ejection device is segmented into two parts: a switching means arranged inside the washing compartment for direct interaction with the pull-out part, and a coupling element arranged outside the washing compartment that is protected from harsh conditions. This segmentation allows each component to be positioned optimally for its function while protecting sensitive components from environmental damage.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

A coupling element acts as an intermediary between the switching means inside the washing compartment and the energy storage device outside. This intermediary transmits forces and movements between the two parts, enabling the protected external components to control the internal ejection mechanism without being directly exposed to harsh washing compartment conditions.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Reliability

If the ejection device is arranged outside the body, then it is protected from harsh washing compartment conditions, but it cannot directly interact with the pull-out part

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveservice life of ejection deviceVSAvoidforce transmission mechanism

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent uses a spring-based energy storage device and elastic deformation mechanisms to replace complex motorized or pneumatic ejection systems. The elastic element stores mechanical energy when compressed and releases it to drive the ejection, simplifying the overall system while maintaining reliability through protected positioning.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Extent of automation

If a motorized ejection device is used, then automated ejection is achieved, but the service life is reduced due to exposure to harsh conditions

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveautomated ejectionVSAvoidservice life of ejection device

Core Design Contradiction:

Extent of automationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The ejection device uses a spring-based energy storage system that automatically stores energy during the loading phase and releases it during ejection without requiring external power sources, control electronics, or complex actuation mechanisms. This self-service mechanical system eliminates motors and sensors that would be vulnerable to harsh washing compartment conditions.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent employs simple, robust mechanical components like springs and elastic elements that are inexpensive, durable, and resistant to harsh environments. These components can withstand repeated compression and release cycles in the washing compartment environment without degrading, providing a reliable alternative to expensive motorized systems.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #27Cheap short-living objects (Disposable)

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 significantly increases the service life and reliability of the ejection device by protecting it from harsh washing compartment conditions, reducing the likelihood of functional failures and maintenance costs.

Implementation Method 1

a tension spring (24) arranged on one side on the adjusting lever (21) and on the other side on an abutment (25)

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentEP3824788B1Dishwasher with an ejection device

Publication Date: 2023.03.01 MIELE & CO KG

Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3

AI summary

Ejection device for an extension part (12, 13, 14) arranged to be moved out of and/or into a body (3) by means of guide rails (17), comprising a switching means arranged movably within the body (3) and cooperating with the extension part (12, 13, 14), a coupling element coupled to the switching means and movably arranged outside the body (3), a force storage device and a guide unit (26) by means of which the coupling element can be positioned securely in a first operating position and in a second operating position distinguishable from it.