Pedestal assemblies for laundry appliances

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing laundry appliance pedestals are often difficult to install and are typically manufacturer-specific due to variations in leveling feet placement, dimensions, and accessibility, requiring appliances to be tipped or laid on their side for attachment.

Innovation Solution

A universal pedestal assembly system featuring adjustable connectors, sliding brackets, and magnetic attachments that accommodate various appliance models by allowing for customizable width and height adjustments, enabling easy installation without the need for manufacturer-specific tools or dimensions.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If traditional manufacturer-specific pedestal attachment methods are used, then stability and secure mounting are achieved, but installation difficulty increases and compatibility across different appliance models decreases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecompatibility across appliance modelsVSAvoidinstallation difficulty

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements universal pedestal attachments that can accommodate multiple appliance makes and models through standardized bracket designs. The bracket assembly includes adjustable components that can adapt to different foot placements and dimensions, eliminating the need for manufacturer-specific attachment methods while maintaining secure mounting across diverse appliance types

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent employs adjustable and movable bracket components that can be repositioned during installation to accommodate varying foot locations and dimensions. The brackets include sliding mechanisms and adjustable fastening points that allow dynamic adaptation to different appliance configurations, simplifying the installation process while ensuring stable attachment

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

2Ease of operation

If adjustable connectors and sliding brackets are used, then compatibility and ease of installation improve, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveinstallation easeVSAvoidconnector complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the attachment system into modular components including separate brackets, fasteners, and adjustable connectors. Each component performs a specific function and can be independently adjusted or replaced, making the overall system easier to install and adapt while managing complexity through functional segmentation

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Data Source

PatentUS11795606B2Pedestal assemblies for laundry appliances

Publication Date: 2023.10.24 WHIRLPOOL CORP

AI summary

A bracket assembly for aligning and securing an appliance with a pedestal may include a pair of appliance brackets are arranged at opposite sides on the underside of the appliance and extend from one edge of the appliance to another. The appliance bracket defines at least one opening configured to receive a shaft of the foot of the appliance and includes a lip extending downward and away from the appliance at the ends of the brackets to engage with a drip tray arranged on the pedestal.