Dual-Tub Laundry Machine Support for Stable Small-Load Washing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional laundry machines are inefficient for washing small loads, requiring multiple cycles, consuming excessive energy and water, and are not suitable for delicate items due to their large size and configuration, leading to inconvenience and potential damage to clothing.
Innovation Solution
A compact laundry machine design featuring a vertically oriented washing tub with a detachable housing and a support member that includes a rigid support device with frictional damping to stabilize and position a second, smaller washing tub, allowing for independent operation and selection based on laundry type, reducing energy and water usage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a large-sized laundry machine is used, then it can wash general clothing, but it consumes excessive energy and water when washing small loads
Solution Approach 1:
The laundry machine is divided into two separate washing tubs: a first washing tub for general clothing and a second washing tub for delicate items. Each tub can be operated independently, allowing users to wash small loads in the smaller second tub, thereby reducing energy and water consumption compared to using the larger first tub for all washing needs.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a vertical arrangement with two washing tubs at different heights. The first washing tub is positioned higher and the second washing tub lower, enabling simultaneous or separate operation. This spatial dimensionality allows the system to handle different washing needs (large vs. small loads) without requiring a single large-capacity tub, thus improving energy efficiency for small loads.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a large-sized laundry machine is used, then it can wash general clothing, but it is not suitable for washing delicate items like underwear and baby clothing
Solution Approach 1:
The laundry machine is divided into two separate washing tubs: a first washing tub for general clothing and a second washing tub for delicate items. Each tub can be operated independently, allowing users to wash delicate items like underwear and baby clothing in the smaller second tub with appropriate water levels and agitation, thereby protecting delicate fabrics while maintaining ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The second washing tub is specifically designed with features suitable for delicate items, including a lower position for easier access and a smaller size appropriate for small loads. This localized design allows delicate items to be washed with appropriate care while general clothing is handled in the first tub, improving both versatility and ease of operation for different washing types.
3Use of energy by moving object
If a small-sized laundry machine is used, then it can wash small loads efficiently, but it requires multiple machines to handle different washing needs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines two washing tubs of different sizes into a single integrated laundry machine structure. The first washing tub (larger) and second washing tub (smaller) are positioned vertically one above the other within a common housing, sharing motors, control systems, and structural support. This merging allows the system to handle both large and small loads efficiently without requiring separate machines, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining energy efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The smaller second washing tub is positioned within the vertical space of the larger first washing tub structure. The second tub is nested in the lower portion of the housing, utilizing the vertical dimension to accommodate both tubs in a compact arrangement. This nesting approach allows small-load washing capability without requiring a separate small machine, optimizing space and reducing system complexity.
4Ease of operation
If the inlet of the laundry machine is positioned low, then the machine structure is simple, but it is inconvenient for users to load and unload laundry
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes the vertical dimension by positioning the first washing tub at a higher level with its inlet facing upward, making it convenient for users to load and unload laundry without excessive bending. The second washing tub is positioned lower for delicate items. This vertical arrangement improves loading convenience while managing overall machine height through efficient spatial organization of components.
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 design enhances user convenience by reducing bending requirements, optimizing space, and enabling efficient washing of different loads without wasting resources, while ensuring stability and vibration control for the smaller tub.
Implementation Method 1
the support member may be formed to reduce the vibration by means of the friction force between the first part and the second part, when the vibration of the second washing tub is generated
Data Source
AI summary
A laundry machine is provided capable of washing or drying laundry. The laundry machine, includes a cabinet, a first washing tub that receives laundry disposed within the cabinet, a housing disposed adjacent the cabinet, a second washing tub provided within the housing that receives laundry, and at least one support device that supports the second washing tub with respect to the housing, substantially preventing vertical displacement of the second washing tub due to the weight of the second washing tub and limiting the displacement of the second washing tub due to vibration thereof.