Telescopic Agitator Assembly for Variable Laundry Load Accommodation
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing agitator devices in washing machines lack the ability to efficiently accommodate varying loads, as they are not adaptable to both small and large laundry sizes without compromising washing efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A collapsible agitator assembly comprising an impeller with a retractable first agitator tube and an extendable second agitator tube, both attachable to a drive shaft, allowing for adjustment to accommodate both minimum and maximum load sizes by threading nuts upward or downward to extend or retract the tubes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed agitator structure is used, then the structure is simple and reliable, but it cannot accommodate varying load sizes efficiently
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a telescopic agitator structure where the first agitator tube can be nested within the second agitator tube, allowing the agitator to change its effective height. This nesting mechanism enables the same agitator to accommodate both small loads (shorter configuration) and large loads (taller configuration) without requiring multiple separate agitators, thus resolving the contradiction between adaptability and structural simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The agitator transitions from a static fixed structure to a dynamic adjustable structure. The telescopic mechanism allows the agitator height to be changed based on load size, making the system adaptive rather than fixed. This dynamic capability enables the agitator to optimize its dimensions for different washing scenarios while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure through the use of guide rails and locking mechanisms.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the agitator is extended to accommodate large loads, then large loads can be washed efficiently, but small loads cannot be accommodated properly
Solution Approach 1:
The telescopic agitator allows the first tube to be extended from the second tube to increase the effective agitator height for large loads, or retracted for small loads. This nesting design provides a continuous range of adjustable heights, enabling optimal agitation for any load size without compromising washing efficiency.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the agitator is retracted to accommodate small loads, then small loads can be washed efficiently, but large loads cannot be accommodated properly
Solution Approach 1:
The dynamic telescopic mechanism allows the agitator to be adjusted to an extended position for large loads or a retracted position for small loads. This adaptability ensures that the agitator maintains optimal performance across different load sizes by matching the agitation intensity and reach to the actual load volume.
Data Source
AI summary
A collapsible agitator assembly includes an impeller that is attachable to a drive shaft of a washing machine to rotate clothing in the washing machine for washing. A first agitator tube is attachable to the drive shaft of the washing machine to agitate water in the washing machine for washing. The first agitator tube is retractable into the impeller. A bushing extends upwardly through the first agitator tube. A second agitator tube is attachable to the bushing and the second agitator tube is retractable inside of the first agitator tube to accommodate a small load of laundry. The second agitator tube is extendable upwardly from the first agitator tube to accommodate a large load of laundry.