Removable Perfuming Cartridge Support for Dryer Air Filters

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing drying and washing/drying machines lack a simple and cost-effective way to integrate a perfuming system for air filters without requiring substantial changes to the machine's structure.

Innovation Solution

A support device with a simple structure that can be removably mounted to the air filter, featuring guide portions for slidingly inserting perfuming cartridges and engaging portions to secure them, allowing for easy association with existing filter designs.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a perfuming system is integrated into the air filter, then the air can be perfumed during drying cycles, but the structure of the filter would require substantial changes

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveperfuming functionalityVSAvoidfilter structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The perfuming system is segmented into a separate support device that can be independently attached to the filter. The support device includes a body with guide portions and engaging portions, while the cartridge is a separate insertable component. This segmentation allows the perfuming function to be added without modifying the filter's basic structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The perfuming cartridge is extracted as a removable component from the support device. The cartridge can be easily removed and replaced by the user without disassembling the support device or the filter. This extraction principle allows for simple maintenance and cartridge replacement while keeping the overall structure intact.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

2Adaptability or versatility

If a perfuming system is integrated into the air filter, then the air can be perfumed during drying cycles, but production costs would increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveperfuming functionalityVSAvoidproduction cost
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

By segmenting the perfuming system into a separate support device and cartridge, each component can be manufactured independently using simple, cost-effective processes. The support device can be molded as a single piece, and the cartridge can be separately manufactured and then inserted, avoiding the need for complex integrated manufacturing.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The support device is designed with universal engagement features that can attach to various filter types. The engaging portions can interface with different filter configurations, making the support device applicable across multiple product lines and reducing tooling costs for manufacturing.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Adaptability or versatility

If a perfuming system is integrated into the air filter, then the air can be perfumed during drying cycles, but the machine's structure would require substantial changes

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveperfuming functionalityVSAvoidmachine structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The perfuming cartridge is extracted as a removable component that can be easily inserted and removed by the user without requiring any structural modifications to the machine. The cartridge access is through the support device, which attaches to the filter, eliminating the need for separate access panels or structural changes in the machine housing.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

The support device acts as an intermediary between the machine's existing filter system and the perfuming cartridge. It interfaces with the filter using existing engaging features (grabbing holes) and provides the perfuming function without requiring direct integration into the machine's structural components.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

4Reliability

If the perfuming cartridge is permanently integrated into the filter, then the perfuming function is stable, but the cartridge cannot be easily replaced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveperfuming function stabilityVSAvoidcartridge replacement
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The cartridge is extracted as a separate, removable component from the support device. The guide portions in the support device body guide the cartridge insertion and retention, while allowing easy removal by pulling the cartridge outward. This extraction design maintains reliable engagement during operation while enabling simple user replacement.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

The cartridge engagement system transitions from a static permanent integration to a dynamic removable connection. The guide portions provide directional guidance for insertion, while the engaging portions maintain secure retention during use. The system dynamically switches between easy insertion, secure holding, and simple removal states based on user interaction.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentEP2749687B1Support device for air filters for drying or washing/drying machines, air filter for drying machines or washing/drying machines provided with said support device and drying or washing/drying machine provided with said filter
Publication Date: 2015.04.01 INDESIT COMPANY SPA
  • EP2749687B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP2749687B1 patent drawingFigure 2a~2b
  • EP2749687B1 patent drawingFigure 3a~3b

AI summary

Support device for perfuming cartridges for air filters for drying machines or washing/drying machines, comprising: a supporting structure (210) adapted to support at least one perfuming cartridge (220, 230, 235), wherein said support structure (210) is adapted to be assembled in a removable way to an air filter (1) of a drying or washing/drying machine (100).