Dishwasher Rack Rail With Angled Wheels to Prevent Twisting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing dishwasher rail systems tend to twist and operate roughly, leading to reduced visual appeal and increased wear on tub seals due to slop between components.
Innovation Solution
A rail system with cambered wheels and C-shaped channels is used to mount the rack to the tub, eliminating slop and ensuring the rail remains straight, thereby reducing twisting and improving smooth operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional rail systems are used to mount the rack, then the structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but the rail system twists and operates roughly due to slop between components
Solution Approach 1:
The wheel is mounted at an angle other than perpendicular to the rack, creating an asymmetric configuration that eliminates slop between components. This angular mounting transforms the symmetric traditional joint into an asymmetric connection that prevents twisting while maintaining structural simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The use of C-shaped channels with curved geometry provides a twist-preventing effect. The curved profile of the C-channels engages with the angled wheel to constrain rotational movement, eliminating slop without requiring complex rigid structures.
2Ease of manufacture
If traditional perpendicular wheel mounting is used, then the assembly is simple, but twisting occurs leading to increased wear on tub seals
Solution Approach 1:
By mounting the wheel at an angle other than perpendicular, the design creates an asymmetric connection that eliminates slop and prevents twisting. This simple angular adjustment reduces wear on tub seals without complicating the manufacturing process.
3Ease of operation
If the rail system allows movement, then the rack can be slid for loading, but slop between components causes rough operation
Solution Approach 1:
The angled wheel mounting creates an asymmetric connection that eliminates slop while preserving the sliding capability. The asymmetric geometry allows linear movement for loading while preventing rotational play, ensuring smooth operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The C-shaped channels with curved profiles engage with the angled wheel to provide smooth guidance during sliding. The curved geometry accommodates movement while maintaining consistent contact, eliminating rough operation caused by component slop.
Data Source
AI summary
A disclosed example dishwasher includes a tub at least partially defining a treating chamber, a rack for holding utensils for treatment within the treating chamber, a first wheel coupled with the tub, a second wheel coupled with the rack at an angle other than perpendicular, and a track. The track can have first and second channels in a back-to-back relationship for respectively receiving the first and second wheels to slidably mount the rack to the tub.