Dryer Back Panel Insulation Structure for Lint and Heat Control

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional laundry appliances face issues with lint accumulation and thermal transfer between the rotating drum and the back panel, which can lead to inefficiencies and mechanical component blockages.

Innovation Solution

An insulation panel is positioned between the rotating drum and the back panel, occupying the space between them to define an airflow path and prevent lint accumulation, while also preventing thermal transfer by maintaining heat within the processing space.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If the space between the rotating drum and back panel is left open, then airflow can pass through freely, but lint accumulates in the interstitial space and thermal transfer occurs between the drum and back panel

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveprevention of lint accumulationVSAvoidaddition of insulation panel

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The insulation panel performs multiple functions simultaneously: it prevents lint accumulation by blocking the interstitial space, defines the airflow path by occupying the recess, and prevents thermal transfer between the drum and back panel. This multi-functionality resolves the contradiction by addressing multiple problems with a single component rather than requiring separate solutions for each issue.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The insulation panel acts as an intermediary element positioned between the rotating drum and the back panel. It mediates the interaction between these two components by preventing direct contact and blocking the interstitial space, thereby preventing lint accumulation and thermal transfer while allowing the drum to rotate freely without modifying its structure.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Reliability

If an insulation panel is added to prevent lint accumulation and thermal transfer, then reliability improves, but the device complexity and manufacturing cost increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveprevention of thermal transferVSAvoidmanufacturing complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The insulation panel is merged with the back panel assembly, forming an integrated unit that simplifies the overall structure. By combining the insulation function with the existing back panel design, the invention avoids the need for separate insulation components and reduces manufacturing steps, thereby improving ease of manufacture while maintaining reliability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The insulation panel is designed with specific dimensional parameters that allow it to fit precisely into the recess of the back panel, occupying the interstitial space without requiring complex adjustments or modifications to the drum or back panel. This parameter optimization simplifies manufacturing by enabling straightforward installation and integration.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

3Reliability

If the insulation panel occupies the arcuate recess, then lint accumulation is prevented, but the airflow path may be restricted

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveprevention of lint accumulationVSAvoidairflow efficiency

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The insulation panel is designed with a specific geometry that allows it to occupy the arcuate recess and block lint accumulation while maintaining an open airway for airflow. The local quality of the panel's structure—being positioned to define rather than block the airway—ensures that lint is prevented from accumulating in the recess while airflow efficiency is preserved through the designated passage.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #3Local quality

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 insulation panel effectively directs airflow, prevents lint accumulation, and maintains thermal energy within the drum, enhancing the efficiency and longevity of laundry appliance components.

Implementation Method 1

The insulation panel is configured to prevent thermal transfer from a processing space within the rotating drum and an area rearward of the back panel

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectThermal insulation: Thermal Insulation

Implementation Method 2

The insulation panel is further positioned to direct a flow of process air through an airway defined within the back panel and into the drum

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectAirflow direction:

Data Source

PatentUS12203208B2Insulation panel for back panel of laundry appliance

Publication Date: 2025.01.21 WHIRLPOOL CORP

AI summary

A drying appliance includes an outer cabinet having a back panel. A rotating drum is positioned adjacent to an arcuate recess of the back panel. A blower delivers process air through an airflow path that includes the rotating drum. The airflow path extends through an airway defined within the arcuate recess of the back panel and through a rear wall of the drum. An insulation panel is positioned between the rear wall of the drum and the back panel of the outer cabinet. The insulation panel occupies the arcuate recess and partially surrounds the airway to prevent accumulation of lint within the arcuate recess. The insulation panel is configured to prevent thermal transfer from a processing space within the rotating drum and an area rearward of the back panel.