Washing Machine Suspension Assembly with Pliable Mounts
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing suspension devices in washing machine appliances generate noise and wear out quickly due to relative motion between components, which is undesirable for consumers.
Innovation Solution
A suspension assembly using pliable mounts with rocker arms and rods to reduce relative movement and noise, where the pliable mounts deform to accommodate tub movement, maintaining constant contact and distributing forces progressively to reduce stress concentrations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If rigid ball and socket configuration is used for suspension devices, then structural strength is maintained, but noise is generated and components wear quickly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the physical state of the suspension components from rigid to pliable by using elastomeric materials. This parameter change allows the mounts to deform elastically under load, absorbing energy without generating noise or wear, while still maintaining sufficient structural strength to support the wash tub.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs composite construction by integrating a metal reinforcement cage within the elastomeric material of the pliable mounts. This composite structure combines the strength of metal with the noise-absorbing properties of elastomer, resolving the contradiction between structural strength and noise reduction.
2Force
If rigid components are used in suspension devices, then load bearing capacity is sufficient, but relative motion causes component wear
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms the suspension components from rigid to pliable state using elastomeric materials. This allows the components to deform and return without relative sliding motion, eliminating wear mechanisms while maintaining load bearing capacity through elastic deformation and metal reinforcement.
3Object-generated harmful factors
If pliable materials are used for suspension components, then noise is reduced, but structural strength may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent resolves this contradiction by creating a composite structure where metal reinforcement cages are embedded within elastomeric pliable mounts. The elastomer provides noise reduction through elastic deformation, while the metal cage maintains structural strength and load bearing capacity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies different material properties to different regions of the suspension assembly - the elastomeric material is used where noise absorption and deformation are needed, while metal reinforcement is placed strategically within the mounts to provide localized strength where structural support is critical.
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 significantly reduces noise generation and extends the lifespan of suspension components by minimizing relative movement and distributing forces effectively during operation.
Implementation Method 1
the pliable mounts deform to accommodate tub movement, maintaining constant contact and distributing forces progressively to reduce stress concentrations
Data Source
AI summary
Washing machine appliances and suspension assemblies for suspending tubs in washing machine appliances are provided. A suspension assembly includes a first pliable mount and a second pliable mount, the first pliable mount and second pliable mount spaced apart from each other along a lateral direction. The first and second pliable mounts each include a hollow body and a head, the head integral with the hollow body. The suspension assembly further includes a rocker arm engaging the head of the first pliable mount and the second pliable mount. The rocker arm extends between the first pliable mount and the second pliable mount along the lateral direction. The suspension assembly further includes a rod connected to the rocker arm and disposed between the first pliable mount and the second pliable mount along the lateral direction.