Insulating Support Element for Dryer Blower Tub Mounting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Drying machines and washing/drying machines face the issue of heat transfer from the metal casing of the blowing unit to the plastic tub, leading to potential melting or damage during operation.
Innovation Solution
A thermally insulating support element made in one piece, with a base portion fitting on the tub and a constraint portion grasping the engaging portion of the drying system, is used to mount the blowing unit externally, preventing direct contact and heat transfer between the casing and the tub.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If the blowing unit casing is made of metal for durability and heat resistance, then the structural strength is improved, but heat transfer to the plastic tub causes melting or damage
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a thermally insulating support element as an intermediary between the metal casing of the blowing unit and the plastic tub. This support element made of thermally insulating material prevents direct thermal contact, allowing the metal casing to maintain its structural strength while blocking harmful heat transfer to the plastic tub.
Solution Approach 2:
The support element is divided into multiple functional segments: a base portion that contacts the tub, an intermediate insulating section, and a constraint portion that grasps the drying system. This segmentation allows each part to perform its specific function - the base provides mounting, the intermediate section provides thermal insulation, and the constraint portion provides mechanical attachment.
2Device complexity
If the blowing unit is mounted directly to the tub for simplicity, then the device complexity is reduced, but heat transfer damages the tub
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple functions into a single integrated support element: mechanical mounting, thermal insulation, and structural support are all combined in one component. This eliminates the need for separate insulating materials and mounting brackets, reducing overall device complexity while preventing heat transfer.
Solution Approach 2:
The support element is made of composite material with thermal insulation properties, combining mechanical strength for mounting with thermal resistance for heat protection. This composite construction allows the single component to simultaneously provide structural support and thermal barrier functions.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If a thermal insulating support element is introduced to prevent heat transfer, then the heat protection is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The support element is designed as a universal component that performs multiple functions simultaneously: it provides thermal insulation to protect the tub, mechanical mounting for the blowing unit, and structural support for the drying system. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate components, so while it adds insulation capability, it does not proportionally increase complexity.
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
Significantly reduces the risk of melting or damage to the tub by thermally insulating the blowing unit from the tub, ensuring safe and efficient drying cycles.
Implementation Method 1
said support element being made of a thermally insulating material
Data Source
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AI summary
Support element adapted to connect a drying system (10) of a household appliance (1) configured to perform at least a drying cycle to a tub (3) of said household appliance (1), said support element (100) being made of a thermally insulating material, wherein said support element (100) comprises: a base portion (110) adapted to be fitted on said tub (3); a constraint portion (120) adapted to grasp an engaging portion (55) of said drying system (10). The constraint portion (120) comprises: an upper part (121); a lower part (122); said upper part (121) and lower part (122) being mutually spaced apart to form a housing (130) for said engaging portion (55); said constraint portion (120) further comprising a connection part (123) connecting said upper part (121) and lower part (122), said upper part (121), lower part (122) and connection part (123) being made in one piece. A household appliance adapted to perform at least a drying cycle, comprising one or more of said support elements, is also disclosed.