Top-Access Detergent Dispenser Layout for Washing Machines
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional washing machines' detergent dispensers are inconvenient for users to access and can be damaged by the weight of detergent containers, limiting the design flexibility of the washing machine's front surface.
Innovation Solution
A detergent dispenser is positioned above the tub and covered by a dispenser cover that opens and closes, allowing easy access and reducing the risk of damage, with separate input holes for different detergents and a structural design that avoids interference with the air supply device.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the detergent dispenser is positioned on the front surface of the washing machine, then users can easily access the detergent container, but this restricts the design flexibility of the washing machine's front surface
Solution Approach 1:
The detergent dispenser is relocated from the horizontal front surface to the vertical upper surface of the washing machine. This dimensional change allows the dispenser to be accessed from above rather than from the front, freeing up the front surface for design purposes while maintaining user accessibility through a top-opening dispenser cover.
2Quantity of substance
If the detergent dispenser is designed to accommodate a detergent container, then detergent storage is provided, but the weight of the container can damage the dispenser structure
Solution Approach 1:
A separate dispenser cover is introduced as an intermediary component between the user and the detergent container. The cover supports the container's weight during the pouring operation, preventing this load from being transmitted to the detergent dispenser structure. The cover acts as a temporary load-bearing element that is removed after use.
Solution Approach 2:
The dispenser cover is designed to be movable rather than fixed, opening to allow container placement and closing to support the container weight during detergent pouring. This dynamic structure allows the system to adapt its load-bearing characteristics based on operational requirements, protecting the dispenser structure from excessive static loads.
3Ease of operation
If the detergent dispenser is exposed on the upper surface, then detergent input is simplified, but the air supply device may be interfered with
Solution Approach 1:
The detergent dispenser is positioned in a specific local area on the upper surface that is spatially separated from the air supply device. By carefully selecting the dispenser location and configuring the dispenser cover geometry, the design ensures that when the cover is closed, it does not obstruct air supply pathways, thus maintaining both detergent accessibility and proper air circulation.
Data Source
AI summary
A washing machine includes a cabinet including an upper cover forming the rear portion of the upper surface of the cabinet, a tub provided within the cabinet, a drum rotatably provided within the tub, a detergent dispenser located above the front portion of the tub and exposed by the upper cover, and a dispenser cover opening and closing the upper surface of the detergent dispenser exposed by the upper cover and formed in front of the upper cover.