Dishwasher Operating Module Pivoting Seal for Reduced Mounting Force
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing domestic dishwashers face challenges in ensuring secure and efficient mounting of the operating module, which affects the tightness and ease of assembly, often requiring higher mounting forces and more engaging portions.
Innovation Solution
The operating module is designed to pivot using a sealing element that is pressed between the module and the fascia box in the assembled state, reducing the mounting force and number of engaging portions through a form-fitting engagement mechanism, with a sealing element that is elastically deformed for secure sealing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the operating module is mounted using a linear mounting method, then the sealing element can be pressed into place, but higher mounting forces and more engagement points are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies a dynamic mounting approach by allowing the operating module to pivot into position rather than being linearly pressed in. The module rotates from a disassembled state to an assembled state, where the pivoting motion naturally guides the sealing element into engagement with the control panel, reducing the force required compared to linear pressing methods
Solution Approach 2:
The invention transitions from a one-dimensional linear mounting approach to a two-dimensional pivoting motion. The operating module moves along a rotational path defined by an axis of rotation, allowing the sealing element to engage with the control panel through a sweeping motion that distributes the engagement force across multiple points simultaneously, thereby reducing the peak force required
2Reliability
If more engagement points are used, then the operating module can be securely mounted, but the complexity of the mounting structure increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control panel serves multiple functions: it acts as both the mounting surface and the sealing surface for the operating module. The engagement section of the control panel is designed to provide both structural support and sealing engagement through its integrated structure, eliminating the need for separate engagement points and reducing overall structural complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the engagement function and sealing function into a single integrated structure. The engagement section of the control panel combines both mechanical engagement and sealing capabilities, allowing the operating module to be securely mounted with fewer discrete engagement points while maintaining reliability
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 ensures a watertight seal with reduced assembly effort and fewer engaging portions, enhancing the operational reliability and user experience by maintaining adequate tightness and simplifying the mounting process.
Implementation Method 1
the sealing element being pressed between the operating module and the control panel in the assembled state
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a domestic dishwasher (1) having a dishwashing compartment (2), having a door (3), which is attached to the dishwashing compartment (2), and having an operating module (32), which is provided on the door (3) and is intended for operating the domestic dishwasher (1), wherein the door (3) has a fascia plate (16), wherein the operating module (32) comprises a sealing element (39) for sealing the operating module (32) in relation to the fascia plate (16), wherein the operating module (32) can be pivoted about an axis of rotation (55) from a dismounted state (Z1), in which an engagement portion (19, 20) of the fascia plate (16) is not in form-fitting engagement with the operating module (32), into a mounted state (Z2), in which the engagement portion (19, 20) is in form-fitting engagement with the operating module (32), and wherein, in the mounted state (Z2), the sealing element (39) is compressed between the operating module (32) and the fascia plate (16).