Washing Machine Tub Cap With Cast-In Balancing Weight
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for creating a cap for a washing machine tub require a final assembly process between the counterweight and the base body, which is costly and inefficient.
Innovation Solution
A cap design featuring a flat circular ring-shaped base body with embedded fastening webs that can be connected to a compressible casting compound to form a ring-shaped balancing weight, eliminating the need for a separate assembly process by using a structured surface and snap connectors for a secure, fluid-tight connection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a separate final assembly process is used to attach the counterweight to the base body, then the connection can be secure, but the production cost increases and the process becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the counterweight and base body into a single integrated component by embedding the base body directly into the counterweight during the concrete pouring process. This eliminates the need for separate assembly steps while maintaining secure connection through the embedded fastening elements (sleeves, ribs, or other geometric features) that become permanently integrated into the concrete matrix.
Solution Approach 2:
The base body is prepared in advance with specific geometric features (sleeves, ribs, or other embedding structures) that are designed to be embedded into the counterweight. This preliminary preparation of the base body allows for direct integration during the pouring process, eliminating the need for subsequent assembly operations while ensuring secure mechanical connection.
2Strength
If reinforcement with metallic sleeves is used to fasten the counterweight, then the connection strength improves, but the manufacturing process becomes more complex requiring special surface treatment
Solution Approach 1:
The metallic sleeves or other fastening features are integrated directly into the base body manufacturing process (e.g., injection molded or formed as part of the base body structure). This merging of components eliminates the need for separate surface treatment steps and subsequent assembly operations, while the sleeves remain embedded in the concrete counterweight to provide secure fastening.
Solution Approach 2:
The solution combines different materials (metallic sleeves/fastening features embedded in plastic base body, which is then embedded in concrete counterweight) to create a composite structure that leverages the strengths of each material - the metal provides mechanical fastening strength, the plastic provides structural integrity, and the concrete provides mass and vibration damping.
3Strength
If adhesive solution is used to attach the counterweight, then the connection can be achieved, but special surface treatment is required increasing production complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The base body with its geometric fastening features is integrated directly into the counterweight during the pouring and hardening process. This merging eliminates the need for adhesive solutions and associated surface treatment requirements, while the embedded geometric features (sleeves, ribs, undercuts) provide secure mechanical attachment through friction and interlocking.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the chemical bonding mechanism (adhesive) with a mechanical bonding mechanism (embedded geometric features that provide frictional and interlocking connections). This substitution eliminates the need for surface treatment and adhesive application steps, simplifying the manufacturing process while maintaining strong attachment.
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 allows for cost-effective production of the cap without requiring a final assembly process, enabling a secure and durable connection of the counterweight to the cap, reducing production costs and simplifying the installation process.
Implementation Method 1
the casting compound can be pressed, for example, to form a pressed concrete counterweight for a washing machine
Implementation Method 2
the base body having a plurality of fastening webs, which can be embedded in the casting compound
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
Figure 5~6
AI summary
The invention relates to a cap (100) for a tub of a washing machine, wherein the cap (100) has a flat circular ring-shaped base body (104) that can be connected to the tub in a fluid-tight manner for receiving a casting compound (204) for forming an annular balancing weight (200). The base body (104) has a plurality of fastening webs (106) which can be embedded in the casting compound (204).