Dishwasher rack support assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional dishwasher rack support assemblies cause jarring of racks and their contents when transitioning between the wash chamber and the door, leading to potential damage and increased manufacturing complexity and cost.
Innovation Solution
A rack support system comprising a door track, a tub track, a roller assembly with a wheel, and a rigid stud that supports the rack when the roller assembly is between the tub track and the door track, minimizing jarring by providing additional support during transition.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional carrier roller assemblies are used to support the rack during transition, then the rack can move between the wash chamber and door, but the rack and its contents experience jarring that may cause damage
Solution Approach 1:
A rigid stud is introduced as an intermediary support element between the rack and the door track. The rigid stud engages with the door track to provide continuous support during the transition phase when the roller assembly is between the tub track and door track, preventing the rack from sinking and eliminating jarring motion.
2Reliability
If conventional carrier roller assemblies with multiple parts are used, then the rack can be supported during transition, but manufacturing complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The support function is segmented between the roller assembly (for normal operation) and the rigid stud (for transition support). This segmentation allows each component to be simple and perform its specific function efficiently, rather than requiring a complex multi-component assembly to handle all scenarios.
Solution Approach 2:
The rigid stud is a simple, inexpensive component that replaces complex carrier roller assemblies. While the stud is only actively used during the brief transition period, its simplicity and low cost significantly reduce manufacturing complexity and assembly time compared to conventional multi-part roller assemblies.
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 solution prevents jarring of the rack and its contents during transition, reducing the risk of damage and simplifying manufacturing by using a more efficient and cost-effective support system.
Implementation Method 1
The roller assembly includes a wheel for supporting the rack on the tub track in the recessed position and on the door track in the extended position
Implementation Method 2
The rigid stud supports the rack when the roller assembly is between the tub track and the door track
Data Source
AI summary
A dishwasher appliance includes a rack support assembly for supporting a rack within a wash chamber and on a dishwasher door. The rack support assembly may include one or more roller assemblies that support the rack on a tub track or a door track. The rack support assembly may further include one or more rigid studs, each rigid stud paired with a roller assembly, for supporting the rack on the door track when its corresponding roller assembly is between the tub track and the door track.