Laundry Treating Apparatus Stacking Assembly Without Separate Rack
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing laundry treating apparatuses require a separate, large rack to stack drying and washing machines, increasing manufacturing costs and making it difficult to move or carry one machine on top of the other, as the rack does not provide adequate support.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus for stacking laundry treating machines with a guide panel for easy carrying and a rear bracket for support, allowing the machines to be securely positioned one on top of the other, using a guide panel with a roller for easy alignment and a rear bracket to prevent detachment, and a control panel for electrical connectivity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a separate rack is used to position one treating apparatus on the other, then the apparatuses can be stacked, but the manufacturing cost increases due to the large volume of the rack
Solution Approach 1:
The rack structure is merged with the treating apparatus itself. The upper apparatus includes side protrusions that extend downward, and the lower apparatus includes corresponding recesses, integrating the support function into the apparatus bodies rather than requiring a separate rack structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The side protrusions and recesses serve multiple functions: they provide structural support for stacking, enable easy carrying during installation, and facilitate alignment between apparatuses. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for dedicated rack components.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a separate rack is used to position one treating apparatus on the other, then the apparatuses can be stacked, but the rack fails to easily carry the washing machine or drying machine positioned on the top
Solution Approach 1:
The carrying function is merged into the stacking structure itself. The side protrusions extend downward below the upper apparatus, creating built-in carrying handles that allow users to easily grip and move the stacked combination during installation.
3Strength
If the upper fastening unit is positioned higher than the lower surface of the first front panel, then the coupling strength is improved, but the alignment precision becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The side protrusions perform preliminary alignment action during the stacking process. By extending downward and fitting into corresponding recesses, they guide the upper apparatus into correct alignment before the fastening units engage, preventing misalignment issues.
Solution Approach 2:
The side protrusions act as intermediary alignment elements between the upper and lower apparatuses. They establish the correct positional relationship before the upper fastening units engage with the lower portion, ensuring proper alignment while maintaining coupling strength.
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 solution reduces manufacturing costs by eliminating the need for a large rack, facilitates easy movement and stacking of machines, and ensures stable positioning without the risk of detachment, enhancing operational efficiency and user convenience.
Implementation Method 1
a guide panel with a roller for easy alignment
Data Source
AI summary
An assembly method of a laundry treating apparatus includes a first step of positioning a second treating apparatus in a desired place for assembly, a second step of seating a first treating apparatus on the second treating apparatus, a third step of coupling a upper fastening unit of the second treating apparatus with a lower portion of the first treating apparatus, and a fourth step of coupling a control panel onto a panel seating portion provided between a lower surface of a first front panel of the first treating apparatus and an upper surface of the second front panel of the second treating apparatus. The upper fastening unit may be positioned to be higher than a lower surface of the first treating apparatus after the second step is performed.