Washing machine appliance having a removable agitator
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Solution Overview
Problem
Users of vertical axis washing machines face limited flexibility in choosing the type of agitation element for different washing operations, as existing agitation elements are typically fixed and require tool-based removal, restricting the ability to switch between single-action, dual-action, and impeller elements.
Innovation Solution
A washing machine design featuring a removable extended post attached to an impeller base, allowing users to easily switch between different agitation elements without tools, enhancing flexibility for various washing cycles.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed agitation element is used in the washing machine, then the structural simplicity is maintained, but the adaptability for different washing operations is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The agitation element is divided into separate components: an impeller base that remains in the machine and an extended post with fins that can be removed and replaced. This segmentation allows users to switch between different agitation element configurations (single-action, dual-action, impeller) by simply attaching or removing the extended post, thereby improving adaptability without significantly complicating the overall structure
Solution Approach 2:
The impeller base is designed as a universal component that can accommodate multiple types of agitation elements through the standardized mounting interface. The extended post can be configured with different fin arrangements to provide single-action, dual-action, or impeller agitation modes, allowing one base structure to serve multiple washing operation requirements
2Ease of operation
If traditional fixed agitation elements are used, then the manufacturing simplicity is maintained, but the ease of operation for switching agitation types is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
By separating the agitation element into a stationary impeller base and a removable extended post, the design enables easy switching of agitation types without requiring tool-based removal of entire agitation assemblies. The modular structure allows users to quickly change agitation configurations by simply detaching and reattaching the extended post component
Solution Approach 2:
The agitation element transitions from a static, fixed configuration to a dynamic, reconfigurable system. The extended post is designed to be selectively removable and reattachable, allowing the agitation element to adapt its configuration based on different washing operation requirements, thereby improving ease of operation
3Adaptability or versatility
If a removable agitation element design is implemented, then the versatility for different washing cycles is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The agitation system is segmented into a permanent impeller base and a removable extended post with fins. This segmentation enables versatility by allowing users to attach different extended post configurations for different washing cycles (single-action, dual-action, impeller modes) while keeping the base structure simple and unchanged
Solution Approach 2:
The extended post with fins is designed to nest onto the impeller base through a mounting interface. When not in use, the extended post can be stored within or alongside the impeller base, minimizing space requirements and reducing the apparent device complexity while maintaining the ability to switch between different agitation configurations
Data Source
AI summary
A washing machine appliance may include a tub, a basket, an impeller base, and an extended post. The basket may be rotatably positioned within the tub. The impeller base may be rotatably mounted within the basket and define a rotation axis. The impeller base may include an impeller platform extending radially outward from the rotation axis and a mounting face defined on the impeller platform coaxial to the rotation axis. The extended post may be removably attached to the impeller base to rotate therewith. The extended post may include a base body, a mating face, a bar latch, and a connector bar. The base body may define an interior cavity. The mating face may be disposed in selective engagement with the mounting face. The bar latch may be pivotably attached to the base body above the mating face. The connector bar may be movably received within the interior cavity.