Dishwasher Rack Insert Layout for Plate and Hollow Vessel Loading
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional dishwasher rack inserts with undulated wire members create dead space that cannot be utilized for non-plate-shaped items, limiting space optimization and flexibility in accommodating various wash items.
Innovation Solution
A dishwasher rack insert featuring undulated wire members that extend across the width of the rack, with tines at each end, allowing for flexible arrangement and use of space by eliminating dead space, enabling secure holding of plates and accommodating hollow vessels like glasses and vases.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If undulated wire members are spaced apart from lateral rack boundaries to prevent plates from projecting beyond boundaries, then plate containment is improved, but space utilization deteriorates due to creation of dead space
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies multi-functionality by designing the rack insert to serve multiple purposes: the undulated wire members contain plates while the integrated tines at ends provide additional support for non-plate items in previously wasted dead space areas, making the same structure serve both plate containment and alternative item support functions
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes the vertical dimension by extending tines upward from the horizontal undulated wire members, transforming the two-dimensional wire structure into a three-dimensional support system that occupies and utilizes the previously wasted vertical dead space between the wire members and rack boundaries
2Stability of the object's composition
If undulated wire members are used to securely hold plates, then plate stability is improved, but flexibility for accommodating non-plate items deteriorates due to dead space
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the rack insert into distinct functional zones: the undulated wire members are dedicated to plate support and stability, while the separately positioned tines at the ends are dedicated to supporting non-plate items, allowing each segment to optimize its specific function without compromising the other
Solution Approach 2:
The rack insert achieves multi-functionality by combining plate-specific support structures (undulated wire members) with general-purpose support structures (tines for various item types), enabling the same insert to accommodate both plates and non-plate items effectively
Data Source
AI summary
A rack insert for a dishwasher rack includes a plurality of undulated wire members disposed successively along a loading direction of a dishwasher. Each undulating wire member includes first and second ends and extends across a majority of a width direction of the dishwasher rack. Each undulating wire member includes a plurality of curves and a tine integrally formed at each of the first and second ends. Each tine extends upward in a vertical direction of the dishwasher.