Segmented Agitator with Spray Channels for Drum Washing Machines
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing drum washing machines have a single washing mode, leading to long washing times and low washing efficiency due to the complexity and high cost of manufacturing agitators with internal water channels.
Innovation Solution
The agitator is designed as separate first and second agitating subsections that jointly define water spray channels, allowing for diversified washing modes while simplifying the manufacturing process and reducing costs by eliminating the need for a closed internal water channel.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the agitator is designed with an integral structure containing internal water channels, then the washing machine can achieve diversified washing modes (agitating and spraying), but the manufacturing process becomes complex and production cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The agitator is divided into multiple independent sections (first agitating section, second agitating section, third agitating section) that can be manufactured separately and then assembled. Each section has simplified structure without internal water channels, making manufacturing easier while still achieving diversified washing functions when assembled together.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple independent agitating sections are combined through assembly to form the complete agitator structure. The water supply device connects to multiple spray outlets distributed across different sections, merging their functions to achieve both agitating and spraying washing modes without requiring complex internal water channels in each section.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the agitator is designed with an integral structure containing internal water channels, then the washing machine can achieve diversified washing modes (agitating and spraying), but production cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The agitator is divided into multiple independent sections that can be manufactured using simpler, less expensive processes. Each section is a separate component without complex internal water channels, reducing individual part costs and allowing for more economical manufacturing methods.
Solution Approach 2:
The separate agitating sections and spray outlets are designed to work together as a multi-functional system. The same modular components can serve both agitating and spraying functions when assembled with the water supply device, achieving versatility without the high cost of integral structures.
3Ease of manufacture
If the agitator uses a single washing mode with lifting ribs, then the manufacturing process is simple, but the washing time is long and washing efficiency is low
Solution Approach 1:
The agitator is segmented into multiple functional sections (agitating sections with lifting ribs and spray outlets) that can be manufactured simply and assembled together. This segmentation allows the system to provide multiple washing functions (agitating and spraying) that work simultaneously or alternately, reducing washing time and improving efficiency while keeping individual components simple to manufacture.
Solution Approach 2:
The spray outlets are positioned to spray water onto clothes before or during the agitating process. This preliminary wetting action prepares the clothes for more effective agitating washing, enhancing the overall washing efficiency without requiring complex manufacturing.
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
This design enhances washing efficiency with dual functions of agitating and spraying, reduces manufacturing complexity and costs, and improves production efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
The agitator is driven to rotate by water supplied by the water supply device
Data Source
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AI summary
The present disclosure relates to an agitator (100) for a drum washing machine and a drum washing machine (1000). The agitator (100) comprises a first agitating subsection (101) and a second agitating subsection (102), wherein an agitating rib (112) of the first agitating subsection (101) is provided with water spray holes (1211), the second agitating subsection (102) and the first agitating subsection (101) are separate parts, and the second agitating subsection (102) and the first agitating subsection (101) are mounted and jointly define a water spray channel in communication with the water spray hole (1211).