Dishwasher Loading Level Retraction Device for Modular Installation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing dishwashers lack a flexible and easily installable retraction mechanism for loading levels, which limits their modular use and efficiency in automatically moving washware holders or cutlery drawers into and out of the washing compartment.
Innovation Solution
A guide device with a first and second guide rail, where the activator element on the first rail snaps into a recess, and a spring element on the second rail, allowing the loading plane to be automatically moved into the receiving area without direct mounting on the washing compartment, utilizing a preassembled retraction device with a damping element for smooth operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the retraction device is directly mounted on the washing compartment, then the automatic retraction function is achieved, but the installation complexity and lack of modular use increases
Solution Approach 1:
The retraction device is segmented into a modular assembly comprising a guide device with first and second guide rails, a retraction device with spring element and damping element, and an activator element. This segmentation allows the retraction function to be installed as a complete module on the loading level itself, rather than requiring direct mounting on the washing compartment, thereby enhancing modular use and reducing installation complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The guide device acts as an intermediary mechanism between the retraction device and the loading level. The guide rails provide a standardized interface that mediates the interaction between the retraction mechanism and the loading level, enabling flexible installation and modular application while maintaining the automatic retraction function.
2Extent of automation
If the loading plane is manually moved, then the loading level can be positioned, but the automatic retraction function is not achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The spring element is pre-tensioned in advance during assembly, storing potential energy that automatically activates the retraction function when the loading level is released. The guide device and activator element are configured beforehand to enable automatic engagement, eliminating the need for manual positioning while keeping the mechanism simple.
Solution Approach 2:
The retraction device is designed to be self-activating through the pre-tensioned spring element that automatically pulls the loading level into the receiving area when released. The system serves itself by using the stored elastic energy to perform the retraction action without requiring external power sources or complex control mechanisms.
3Ease of manufacture
If the retraction device is mounted directly on the washing compartment, then the retraction function is achieved, but the ease of installation and replacement is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting structure is segmented into separate components: the guide device with guide rails that can be independently installed on the loading level, and the retraction device that attaches to the guide rails. This segmentation enables easy installation and replacement of the entire retraction assembly as a module without modifying the washing compartment structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The guide device with standardized guide rails serves multiple functions: it provides structural support for the retraction mechanism, enables smooth movement of the loading level, and facilitates easy installation and replacement. This universal design allows the same mounting structure to be used across different loading level configurations, enhancing ease of installation.
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 flexible and efficient automatic movement of loading levels into the receiving area, reducing noise and ensuring smooth operation, while allowing for easy installation and replacement of the retraction device, enhancing the dishwasher's modular application.
Implementation Method 1
the retraction device attached to the second guide rail has a spring element which can be pretensioned when the loading plane is moved out of the receiving area
Implementation Method 2
with a damping element set up to dampen a movement of the loading plane when the loading plane is automatically shifted into the receiving area
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a household appliance (1), in particular a dishwasher, having a loading level (10), a receiving area (2) for receiving the loading level (10), a guide device (11) for guiding the loading level (10), wherein the loading level (10) can be selectively displaced along the guide element (11) either into or out of the receiving area (2), and a retraction device (12) secured to the guide device (11) for automatically displacing the loading level (10) into the receiving area (2).