Sensor fixing member and dishwasher comprising sensor fixing member
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing dishwasher designs face issues with nozzle rotation restriction due to foreign substances and dish collisions, which can damage the nozzle restriction detecting sensor, and require additional installation costs and damage to the conventional door panel for sensor placement.
Innovation Solution
A sensor fixing member is integrated into the dishwasher door panel, securely attaching the nozzle restriction detecting sensor to the door panel without damaging it, using anti-falling supports and hooks to prevent collisions and maintain normal nozzle operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the nozzle restriction detecting sensor is disposed inside the tub, then the sensor can detect nozzle rotation restriction, but the sensor may be damaged by foreign substances and washing water
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary structure (sensor mounting portion on the door panel) that mediates between the sensor and the harsh environment inside the tub. The sensor is mounted on the door panel rather than directly inside the tub, creating a protective barrier while maintaining detection capability through the door panel structure.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If the nozzle restriction detecting sensor is disposed in the door, then the sensor is protected from damage, but additional installation processes and costs are required
Solution Approach 1:
The door panel structure is designed to serve multiple functions: it acts as both the door closure and as a mounting structure for the sensor. The sensor mounting portion is integrated into the existing door panel design, allowing the door to fulfill both its traditional function and serve as a protected mounting location for the sensor without requiring separate installation structures.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the sensor mounting function with the existing door panel structure. Instead of adding a separate mounting bracket or structure, the sensor mounting portion is combined with the door panel itself, reducing the number of separate components and simplifying the overall installation process.
3Ease of manufacture
If the conventional door panel is modified to install the sensor, then the sensor can be mounted, but the door panel is damaged and cannot be reused conventionally
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor mounting portion is pre-designed and pre-formed as part of the door panel structure during manufacturing. This preliminary action ensures that the mounting features are already in place before the sensor is installed, eliminating the need for damaging modifications such as drilling holes or welding during installation. The door panel maintains its integrity and can still be closed and sealed conventionally.
Data Source
AI summary
There is disclosed a sensor fixing member and a dishwasher including the sensor fixing member. A dishwasher may include a case defining an exterior and having an open front; a door sealing the open front of the case and comprising a door panel and a door cover covering the door panel; a nozzle spraying washing water into the case; a nozzle restriction detecting sensor provided inside the door and disposed at a height equal to the height of the nozzle from a bottom surface; and a sensor fixing member having one side coupled to the nozzle restriction detecting sensor and the other side coupled to the door.