Dishwasher Sprayer Deflector to Prevent Dish Rack Obstruction
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Solution Overview
Problem
In automatic dishwashers, soiled dishes or utensils often get stuck with the sprayer, making it difficult to move the dish rack in and out, requiring users to remove and reposition the rack to resolve the interaction.
Innovation Solution
A displaceable sprayer with a deflector mechanism that moves in response to the dish rack's position, allowing items to contact the deflector and push it out of the way, preventing interference and facilitating smooth movement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a fixed sprayer is used in the dishwasher, then the sprayer structure is simple and reliable, but dishes or utensils can get stuck with the sprayer making dish rack movement difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The sprayer is designed with a displaceable mounting that allows it to move dynamically in response to contact with dishes or utensils. When an item contacts the sprayer during dish rack movement, the sprayer displaces to avoid obstruction, enabling smooth operation without requiring complex mechanical mechanisms.
2Reliability
If a fixed sprayer is used, then the device structure is simple, but the sprayer can be damaged by contact with dishes requiring replacement
Solution Approach 1:
The displaceable sprayer mounting allows the sprayer to move away from contact paths when dishes or utensils approach during rack movement. This dynamic adjustment prevents damage to the sprayer components, extending their operational life without adding complex protective mechanisms.
3Reliability
If the sprayer is made displaceable to prevent contact with dishes, then the sprayer is protected from damage, but the sprayer structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The sprayer mounting system utilizes the force from dish contact itself to trigger the displacement action. When a dish or utensil contacts the sprayer during rack movement, the contact force automatically displaces the sprayer to avoid obstruction or damage, eliminating the need for external sensors, actuators, or control systems.
Data Source
AI summary
A dishwasher for treating dishes according to a cycle of operation, the dishwasher comprising a tub at least partially defining a treating chamber; a dish rack movably received within the treating chamber, configured for receiving dishes for treatment during the cycle of operation, and moveable relative to the tub; a sprayer located within the treating chamber, configured to emit spray into the dish rack; and a deflector having a base portion fixed to the sprayer, wherein the deflector includes at least one wall that extends away from the base portion such that the at least one wall is positioned to prevent contact between the dishes in the dish rack and the sprayer.