Modular Washing Machine Filter Cover for Easy Detachment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional washing machine net filters are difficult to detach and mount, require a certain water level and pressure for operation, are prone to damage from contact with laundry, and aesthetically unappealing due to their long disposition within the tub.
Innovation Solution
A foreign materials filtering apparatus detachably mounted at the washing water circulating duct, comprising a filter cover unit and filter unit modularized with each other, with a cap, handle, and protrusions for stable mounting, allowing easy detachment and filtration without water pressure issues, and featuring a mesh for filtering foreign materials.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the net filter is installed at the upper end of the washing tub, then the filtration function is provided, but washing water cannot be supplied to the net filter when water level or water pressure is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The filter unit is relocated from the upper end to an intermediate height position in the washing tub, changing the vertical dimension of installation. This dimensional change allows the filter to be positioned where washing water naturally flows during the wash cycle, ensuring reliable water supply for filtration without requiring high water levels or pressure.
2Reliability
If the net filter is installed to be exposed to inside of the washing tub, then the filtration is provided, but the net filter is easily abraded by contact with laundry
Solution Approach 1:
A filter cover unit is introduced as an intermediary component that encloses the filter unit. This cover protects the filter mesh from direct contact with laundry while still allowing washing water to pass through to the filter. The cover acts as a mediator between the filter and laundry, preventing abrasion and extending filter lifespan while maintaining filtration functionality.
3Reliability
If the net filter is installed to be long disposed inside the washing tub, then the filtration coverage is improved, but the appearance is degraded
Solution Approach 1:
The filtering apparatus is segmented into distinct components: a filter cover unit and a filter unit. This segmentation allows the filter to be installed at an intermediate height rather than extending vertically throughout the tub, reducing its visual prominence while maintaining effective filtration coverage. The modular design enables compact installation that preserves appearance.
4Ease of operation
If the net filter is held by a user's hand for detachment, then the filter can be removed, but foreign materials fall down and make the user's hand dirty
Solution Approach 1:
The filter cover unit and filter unit are integrally modularized as a single assembly. This merging allows the entire filtering apparatus to be detached and removed as one unit, preventing foreign materials from falling during the removal process. The integrated design eliminates the risk of contamination that would occur if components were separated during handling.
5Ease of manufacture
If the net filter is installed at a fixed position, then the installation is simple, but the filter cannot be easily detached or mounted
Solution Approach 1:
The filtering apparatus incorporates detachable coupling structures with hooks that can be engaged or disengaged from the washing tub. This dynamic design allows the filter to be easily installed by hanging it on the hooks and removed by detaching the hooks, combining installation simplicity with easy detachability. The coupling mechanism transitions between fixed and movable states as needed.
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
Enhances the ease of filter installation and removal, extends filter lifespan by protecting it from laundry contact, ensures filtration functionality at any water level, and improves the washing machine's appearance by relocating the filter to an intermediate height within the tub.
Implementation Method 1
a mesh or a mesh hole is installed at the front filter, and the mesh is installed at the mesh hole
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed are a foreign materials filtering apparatus and a washing machine having the same. Since a filter cover unit and a filter unit are integrally modularized with each other, a user can separate or mount the filter unit from/to a washing water circulating duct by separating or mounting the filter cover unit from/to the washing water circulating duct. Accordingly, the foreign materials filtering apparatus can be easily detachably mounted at the washing water circulating duct.