Removable Agitator Post with Twist Lock for Washer Space Adaptability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional washing machines with fixed agitators consume valuable space and user perception often favors designs with visible agitators, despite newer impeller technologies providing more effective cleaning with less water usage, making it difficult for users to adopt water-conserving models without a traditional agitator.
Innovation Solution
A washing appliance with a removable agitator post that can be easily installed or removed without special tools, featuring a receptacle with grooves, notches, and access channels allowing for radial and vertical movement, and a biasing element to secure the agitator in place, enabling efficient space utilization and user preference.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If a conventional post-type agitator is used, then user perception of cleaning effectiveness is improved, but wash drum space is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The agitator is segmented into two main components: a stationary post structure and a removable impeller assembly. This segmentation allows the agitator to provide visual presence when needed while being removable to maximize wash drum space for large loads.
Solution Approach 2:
The agitator design transitions from a static conventional post to a dynamic system where the impeller assembly can be selectively installed or removed. This dynamic configuration allows the system to adapt between providing visual agitation (when impeller is installed) and maximizing space (when impeller is removed).
2Reliability
If a conventional fixed agitator is used, then agitation function is provided, but adaptability for different load sizes is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The agitator system is made dynamic by allowing the impeller assembly to be selectively installed or removed based on load requirements. For small to medium loads, the impeller provides effective agitation; for large loads, the impeller is removed to maximize space, maintaining versatility across different washing scenarios.
Solution Approach 2:
The stationary post structure serves multiple functions: it provides structural support, maintains visual presence of an agitator, and serves as a mounting base for the removable impeller. This multi-functionality allows the system to adapt to different load sizes while maintaining reliable agitation when 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
The solution allows for effective cleaning with the option to remove the agitator for larger loads, providing more space while maintaining the ability to install it for desired agitation, thus addressing user perception and water conservation needs.
Implementation Method 1
A biasing element may be positioned between the impeller and agitator post when the agitator post is received in the receptacle, the biasing element configured for urging the agitator post upwardly along the vertical direction within the receptacle.
Data Source
AI summary
A washer appliance with a removable agitator post includes an impeller supporting a receptable having multiple features for receipt of agitator tabs to secure or release the agitator post. A biasing element may be used to help secure or release the agitator post. The agitator post is rotated to secure or release it from the impeller. A removable cap may be included.