Dishwasher Rack Strap Assembly for Adjustable Article Retention
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional dishwasher racks are rigid and inflexible, making it difficult to securely hold articles of varying shapes and sizes, as they lack adjustable retention devices that can easily be rearranged for different engagement positions.
Innovation Solution
A strap assembly with resilient members and spherical ends, made from materials like silicone and thermoplastic elastomer, which can be adjusted in length and securely attached to the rack, allowing for flexible positioning and retention of articles across rows and columns.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If fixed retention devices are used in dishwasher racks, then articles can be secured in place, but the rack lacks flexibility and cannot be easily rearranged for different article sizes and shapes
Solution Approach 1:
The retention device incorporates a resilient member that can dynamically adjust its position and engagement force. The resilient member is capable of moving between engaged and disengaged states, allowing the rack to adapt to different article configurations while maintaining secure retention when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The resilient member changes its physical state between engaged and disengaged positions, altering its effective length and engagement force. This parameter change enables the same component to provide both strong retention and easy reconfiguration capabilities.
2Strength
If rigid retention structures are used, then articles are securely held, but the structure becomes difficult to rearrange and adjust
Solution Approach 1:
The resilient member provides a dynamic retention mechanism that can be easily engaged and disengaged. When engaged, it provides strong retention force; when disengaged, it allows easy rearrangement of articles without requiring complex manipulation of rigid structures.
Solution Approach 2:
The resilient member automatically provides retention force when engaged and releases it when disengaged, eliminating the need for additional mechanisms or complex operations to adjust the rack configuration.
3Adaptability or versatility
If adjustable retention devices are added to provide flexibility, then the rack can accommodate various articles, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The retention device is segmented into distinct functional components: a resilient member for providing retention force and spherical members for engagement. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function efficiently while keeping the overall structure simple and manageable.
Solution Approach 2:
The resilient member with spherical ends serves multiple functions: it provides retention force, enables easy engagement and disengagement, and accommodates various article sizes and shapes. This multi-functionality reduces the need for multiple specialized components, thereby simplifying the overall device structure.
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
The strap assembly provides secure and adjustable retention of articles within the dishwasher rack, allowing for easy rearrangement and effective use with various items, enhancing the versatility and usability of the rack.
Implementation Method 1
at least one resilient member having a first end and an opposing second end
Implementation Method 2
a first spherical member attached to the first end of at least one resilient member
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus and method of using a strap assembly for retaining at least one article to a dishwasher rack. The strap assembly may include a spherical member on each of the opposing ends of a resilient member. One or more of the strap assemblies may be positioned in a variety of orientations with the dishwasher rack to contact one or more articles.