Dishwasher Basket Foldable Rack With Single-Step Pendulum Motion

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing crockery baskets with foldable shelves have complex structures that are difficult to manufacture and operate, particularly for technically less experienced users, as they require separate steps for folding and vertical movement.

Innovation Solution

A foldable shelf design utilizing a pendulum rod with upper and lower joints, where the upper joint articulates the shelf on the crockery basket wall and the lower joint is attached to the shelf via a pin, allowing combined folding and vertical movement in a single step, along with a detachable fastening system and a stop for secure positioning.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a complex foldable shelf structure with separate folding and vertical movement mechanisms is used, then the shelf can achieve multiple positions, but the structure becomes complicated and difficult to operate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveshelf position adjustmentVSAvoidstructure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines two separate functions (folding movement and vertical translation) into a single integrated mechanism. The pendulum rod simultaneously performs both folding and vertical movement when the shelf is operated, eliminating the need for separate mechanisms and reducing overall structural complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The pendulum rod serves multiple functions: it acts as both the folding hinge and the vertical guide for the shelf. This multi-functional component reduces the number of parts needed and simplifies the overall structure while maintaining the ability to achieve multiple shelf positions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If a complex foldable shelf structure is used, then the shelf can achieve multiple positions, but the operation becomes difficult for technically less experienced users

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveshelf position adjustmentVSAvoiduser operation difficulty
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

By merging folding and vertical movement into a single pendulum motion, the system reduces the number of操作步骤 from two (fold then move vertically) to one (single pendulum swing), making it intuitively understandable and easy to operate for users of all technical backgrounds.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Adaptability or versatility

If traditional hinge mechanisms with separate folding and vertical movement are used, then the shelf can be articulated to the wall, but the manufacturing complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveshelf articulationVSAvoidmanufacturing complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges the hinge function and vertical guide function into a single pendulum rod component, reducing the number of parts that need to be manufactured and assembled. This integration simplifies the manufacturing process while maintaining full articulation capability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The pendulum rod is designed as a multi-functional component that simultaneously provides articulation, folding, and vertical guidance, reducing the total number of manufactured parts and simplifying the production process.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

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

Simplifies the operation and structure of the shelf, enabling easy use by all users and reducing manufacturing complexity, while allowing flexible attachment and secure loading of items without tools.

Implementation Method 1

the articulation means is designed as a pendulum rod which has an upper joint and a lower joint at its ends

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectPendulum: Pendulum

Implementation Method 2

This suspension enables simplified operation of the shelf. Because it combines the previous two operating steps, namely folding the shelf on the one hand and moving it vertically on the other, into a single step.

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMechanical Advantage: Mechanical Advantage

Data Source

PatentEP2166919B1Dishwasher basket with foldable rack
Publication Date: 2014.12.03 BSH HAUSGERATE GMBH
  • EP2166919B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP2166919B1 patent drawingFigure 2~3

AI summary

The invention relates to a dishwasher basket, comprising a least one rack (1) which can be fastened to the dishwasher basket in a resting position and an operating position. The invention is characterized in that the rack (1) is hinged by at least one arm to the dishwasher basket which has at least one articulated agent which allows translational movement and rotational movement of the rack (1) relative to the dishwasher basket.