Dishwasher Receptacle for Flat Washware With Weight-Activated Supports
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional washware receptacles for flat items in dishwashers require manual setup of comb-shaped support elements, which protrude into the space even when partially loaded, hindering the loading of other washware formats.
Innovation Solution
A washware receptacle with pivotable support elements that automatically erect when loaded with flat items, using a pin-socket joint or lever extension mechanism, allowing them to pivot from a rest position into a support position and return to the rest position when unloaded, thus optimizing space for different washware formats.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If rigid or comb-shaped support elements are used in washware receptacles, then flat washware can be supported, but the support elements protrude into the space even when partially loaded, hindering the loading of other washware formats
Solution Approach 1:
The support elements are designed to be movable rather than fixed, allowing them to pivot between a stored position (flush with the base) and a support position (protruding upward). This dynamic configuration enables the support elements to adapt their volume occupation based on actual usage needs, resolving the contradiction between providing support functionality and minimizing space occupation when not in use.
Solution Approach 2:
The comb-shaped unit is divided into multiple individual support elements, each capable of independent pivoting motion. This segmentation allows only the necessary number of support elements to protrude based on loading requirements, rather than the entire comb unit remaining in a fixed protruding state, thereby reducing unnecessary space occupation and improving adaptability.
2Device complexity
If comb-shaped support units are used, then multiple support elements are combined, but they can only be folded over as a whole, requiring manual setup before loading
Solution Approach 1:
The support elements are equipped with automatic activation mechanisms (such as weight-sensitive triggers or cam mechanisms) that cause them to pivot from the stored position to the support position automatically when flat washware is placed in the receptacle. This self-service functionality eliminates the need for manual setup, allowing the support elements to configure themselves based on actual loading conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The support elements are pre-configured in a compact stored position that is ready for rapid deployment. When needed, they can quickly transition to the support position without requiring user intervention, effectively performing the setup action in advance and maintaining readiness for various loading scenarios.
3Ease of operation
If support elements protrude in the vertical direction, then flat washware can be supported, but it hinders the loading of washware of other formats
Solution Approach 1:
The support elements transition from a horizontal configuration (flush with the base) to a vertical configuration (protruding upward) only when flat washware is loaded. This dynamic reconfiguration allows the receptacle to accommodate different washware formats by adjusting the support element orientation, thereby improving both ease of loading and adaptability to various item types.
Solution Approach 2:
The support elements utilize rotational motion to change their spatial orientation from the horizontal plane to the vertical direction. This dimensional transition allows them to clear the loading path for other washware formats when not in use, while providing vertical support when needed, thus resolving the conflict between supporting flat washware and accommodating other formats.
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 automatic adjustment of support elements ensures efficient use of space by only protruding when needed, allowing for easier loading of various washware formats without manual intervention, enhancing user convenience and storage capacity.
Implementation Method 1
The at least one support element can be pivoted from the rest position into the support position by the weight of the flat items to be washed
Implementation Method 2
the at least one support element is pivotably articulated in the floor by a pin-socket joint
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a washing item receptacle (12) for a flat washing item (17) in a dishwasher, in particular in a domestic dishwasher, comprising a base (14) and at least one support element (13) for supporting the flat washing item (17). The at least one support element (2) is designed to be pivoted between a rest position arranged on a plane of the base (14) and a support position which projects from the plane of the base (14). The at least one support element (13) can be pivoted from the rest position into the support position by the weight of the flat washing item (17).