Hinge system for a laundry machine

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing washing machines lack an efficient and durable hinge system for the lid that allows smooth transition between open and closed positions, which can affect user convenience and longevity.

Innovation Solution

A hinge system comprising a post and an L-shaped bracket is used to rotatably secure the lid to the cabinet, allowing the lid to transition smoothly between open and closed positions, with the L-shaped bracket engaging the post to facilitate rotation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a traditional hinge system is used in washing machines, then the structure is simple, but the durability and smoothness of lid transition are insufficient

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedurability of hinge systemVSAvoidcomplexity of hinge structure

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The hinge system is divided into separate functional components: a post mounted on the cabinet, an L-shaped bracket attached to the lid, and a rotatable engagement mechanism. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function while maintaining overall simplicity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The L-shaped bracket acts as an intermediary element between the fixed post and the moving lid, providing a rotatable connection that enables smooth lid transition while distributing mechanical stresses across multiple contact points.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Ease of operation

If a simple hinge mechanism is used, then the device complexity is low, but the smoothness and efficiency of lid movement are compromised

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesmoothness of lid transitionVSAvoidcomplexity of hinge mechanism

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The hinge system incorporates a rotatable L-shaped bracket that dynamically adjusts during lid movement, enabling smooth transition through varying angles and positions while maintaining continuous contact with the fixed post for stable operation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

3Duration of action of stationary object

If a durable hinge system is implemented, then the lifespan of the washing machine is extended, but the manufacturing complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvelifespan of washing machineVSAvoidease of manufacturing hinge system

Core Design Contradiction:

Duration of action of stationary objectVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The hinge components are designed with uniform material properties and manufacturing processes, using standard fastening methods and consistent material selection across all parts to simplify production while ensuring durability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #33Homogeneity

Data Source

PatentUS12421648B2Hinge system for a laundry machine

Publication Date: 2025.09.23 WHIRLPOOL CORP

AI summary

A laundry machine includes a cabinet, a lid, and a hinge. The cabinet is configured to receive clothing articles. The lid is secured to a top of the cabinet and is configured to transition between open and closed positions. The hinge rotatably secures the lid to the cabinet such the lid transitions between the open and closed positions via the hinge. The hinge comprises a post and an L-shaped bracket. The post protrudes upward from the top of the cabinet. The L-shaped bracket is disposed along a bottom of the lid and is configured to rotatably engage the post to transition the lid between the open and closed positions.