Handle module for a washing machine
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing handle assemblies for washing machines have limitations in component reduction, independent positioning of connectors, and increased assembly and logistics efforts.
Innovation Solution
A handle assembly with a one-piece connecting part featuring resiliently arranged connectors that can be independently positioned relative to the handle panel, utilizing meandering resilient tongues and positive locking mechanisms for precise alignment and reduced component count.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If multiple separate components are used for connectors and connecting parts, then each component can be precisely manufactured, but the number of components increases and assembly effort increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple separate components (connecting part, first connector, second connector, and handle panel) into a single integrated one-piece connecting part. This merging reduces the total number of components while maintaining precise positioning capabilities through resilient arrangement and positive locking mechanisms built into the unified structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The one-piece connecting part serves multiple functions simultaneously: it acts as the connecting structure, provides first and second connectors for different connections, enables resilient positioning, and offers positive locking. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate components while maintaining manufacturing precision.
2Manufacturing precision
If connectors are fixed rigidly to the handle panel, then positioning is precise, but independent positioning of connectors relative to each other is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces dynamic elements through resilient tongues that allow connectors to be independently positioned within predetermined limits. The resilient arrangement enables the connectors to move and adjust independently while maintaining precise positioning when locked, combining flexibility with precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The resilient tongues allow the positioning parameters of the connectors to be changed independently within predetermined limits. The spring-loaded mechanism enables adjustment of connector positions while maintaining precise final positioning through positive locking, accommodating different manufacturing requirements.
3Ease of operation
If multiple separate components are used, then assembly flexibility is high, but warehousing and logistics effort increase
Solution Approach 1:
By merging multiple components into one integrated one-piece connecting part, the patent reduces the quantity of components that need to be stored, handled, and assembled. This single component can still provide the necessary assembly flexibility through its resilient and positive locking features.
4Adaptability or versatility
If resilient arrangement is used for connectors, then independent positioning is enabled, but structural complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses resilient tongues (flexible elements) integrated into the one-piece connecting part to enable independent positioning of connectors. These flexible elements provide the necessary adaptability while being structurally efficient and not adding significant complexity to the overall design.
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
This design minimizes the number of components, allowing for precise positioning and reduced assembly and logistics efforts, while enhancing the handle assembly's functionality and aesthetics by enabling independent positioning of connectors and integrating the connecting part as a recessed grip.
Implementation Method 1
the one-piece connecting part has a base section on which the first connector and the second connector are each resiliently arranged
Implementation Method 2
the spring tongue is designed in a meandering shape. This significantly improves the mechanical properties of the respective spring tongue
Implementation Method 3
the first and/or the second connector and the handle cover have corresponding positive-locking connector elements by means of which the respective connector can be positively locked to the handle cover
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2a
Figure 2b
AI summary
The invention relates to a handle assembly (2) for a washing machine, comprising a handle panel (4) and a connecting part (6) which is force-transmittingly connected to the handle panel (4) in an assembly state of the handle assembly (2), wherein at least one first connector (8, 10) for force-transmitting the connection of the handle assembly (2) to a control panel of the washing machine and at least one second connector (12, 14) for force-transmitting the connection of the handle assembly (2) to a container of the washing machine are formed on the one-piece connecting part (6), characterized in that the one-piece connecting part (6) has a base section (16) on which the first connector (8, 10) and the second connector (12, 14) are each resiliently arranged such that the first connector (8, 10) and the second connector (12, 14) can move within predetermined limits independently of each other connector (8, 10, 12, 14) relative to the handle panel (4) can be positioned.