Removable Agitator Post Using Latches for Washer Space Flexibility
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional washing machines with fixed agitators consume valuable space and user perception often prefers the traditional post-type agitator, despite newer designs like impellers being more effective, especially for larger loads, and water conservation requirements favor less water usage.
Innovation Solution
A washing appliance with a removable agitator post that can be easily installed or removed without special tools, utilizing an impeller interface with latch recesses and biasing members to secure the agitator post, allowing for more flexible use of space and effective cleaning.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a conventional post-type agitator is used, then user satisfaction and perceived cleaning effectiveness are improved, but wash drum space is consumed and water usage increases
Solution Approach 1:
The agitator post is made removable rather than fixed, allowing the system to dynamically adapt between two configurations: with agitator for user-preferred cleaning action, and without agitator for maximum space and water efficiency. This resolves the contradiction by making the space-consuming component optional rather than permanent.
Solution Approach 2:
The agitator post is separated from the impeller assembly, allowing independent installation and removal. This segmentation enables the system to provide agitator functionality only when needed, rather than having it permanently occupy wash drum space.
2Reliability
If a conventional post-type agitator is used, then cleaning effectiveness is improved, but water consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The removable agitator design allows users to dynamically select between water-intensive agitator-based cleaning and water-efficient impeller-based cleaning based on load size and fabric type, resolving the contradiction between cleaning effectiveness and water consumption.
Solution Approach 2:
The system allows changing the cleaning mechanism parameter from agitator-based to impeller-based operation, enabling adaptation to different water conservation requirements while maintaining cleaning effectiveness through alternative means.
3Loss of substance
If an impeller without agitator is used, then water consumption is reduced and space is optimized, but user acceptance decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adapts to user preferences by allowing optional installation of the agitator post, transforming the static impeller-only design into a flexible system that can accommodate traditional user expectations when desired.
Solution Approach 2:
The impeller assembly is designed to universally support both agitator and no-agitator operating modes, making the system multi-functional and capable of satisfying both water conservation requirements and traditional user preferences.
4Volume of stationary object
If the agitator is made removable, then space flexibility and water efficiency are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The removal mechanism is segmented into simple, discrete components (latches, recesses, biasing members) that can be independently manufactured and assembled, reducing overall complexity despite adding removability functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The biasing members automatically engage the latches with the recesses without requiring external actuators or complex control systems, allowing the system to self-service the locking function and reducing mechanical complexity.
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 removable agitator design provides effective cleaning while accommodating larger loads and conserving water, as it allows for the installation or removal of the agitator post, enhancing user satisfaction and operational efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
A plurality of biasing members may be provided that are connected to the latches and are configured to urge the latches into the latch recesses when the agitator post is positioned on the impeller interface.
Data Source
AI summary
A washer appliance includes an impeller and impeller interface. An agitator post is removably positioned upon the impeller interface. A plurality of latches are supported by the agitator post and spaced apart circumferentially. Each latch may be configured for pivoting in and out of one of a plurality of latch recesses provided by the impeller interface when the agitator post is positioned on the impeller interface. Biasing members urge the latch into the latch recesses when the agitator post is positioned on the impeller interface.