Removable Agitator Design for Tool-Free Washing Machine Adaptability
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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 types.
Innovation Solution
A washing machine design featuring a rotatably mounted impeller base with an extended post and connector bar, allowing for easy removal and attachment of agitation elements without tools, enabling users to switch between different agitation types based on load requirements.
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 modular components: an impeller base with mounting features and removable agitation elements (single-action, dual-action, or impeller types). This segmentation allows users to select and attach different agitation element types based on specific washing needs, thereby improving adaptability without requiring a completely different washing machine system.
Solution Approach 2:
The impeller base is designed with universal mounting features (dovetail joints, receiver slots, threaded brackets) that can accommodate multiple types of agitation elements. This multi-functional design enables a single base structure to support various agitation element configurations, providing versatility while maintaining structural simplicity.
2Ease of operation
If traditional fixed agitation elements are used, then the manufacturing process is simple, but the ease of operation for switching agitation types is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The agitation elements are designed to be extractable and removable from the impeller base without requiring tools. The mounting mechanism includes features like dovetail joints, receiver slots, and threaded brackets that allow manual attachment and detachment, enabling users to easily switch between different agitation element types based on their washing requirements.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a removable agitation element design is implemented, then the adaptability for different wash cycles is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The agitation element system transitions from a static fixed design to a dynamic removable design. The mounting mechanism incorporates movable and adjustable features that allow the agitation elements to be attached, detached, and reconfigured during different wash cycles, providing adaptability while keeping the complexity manageable through standardized connection interfaces.
Data Source
AI summary
A washing machine appliance or agitator may include an impeller base and an extended post. The impeller base may be rotatably mounted within and define a rotation axis. The impeller base may include a mounting face with one or more dovetail joints. The extended post may be removably attached to the impeller base to rotate therewith. The extended post may include a base body base body extending along the rotation axis between a bottom end proximal to the impeller base and a top end distal to the impeller base. The extended post may also include an auger fin extending radially from the base body between the bottom end and the top end. The extended post may further include a mating face disposed on the bottom end. The mating face may define one or more receiver slots corresponding to and selectively receiving the one or more dovetail joints.