Lid assembly for a laundry appliance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional laundry appliances require separate support frames for different lids, including those with and without trim panels, which complicates manufacturing and increases costs.
Innovation Solution
A lid assembly for laundry appliances featuring a frame with a raised outer edge that supports both a first panel in a first lid configuration and a second panel in a second lid configuration, with a trim selectively coupled to the frame using snap elements and protrusions, allowing for a single frame design to accommodate various lid configurations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If separate support frames are used for different lid configurations, then each lid type can be properly supported, but device complexity and manufacturing costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing a single support frame that can accommodate multiple lid configurations (with or without trim panels, different panel types). The frame includes a recessed portion that selectively receives different panels, allowing one frame design to serve multiple functions that previously required separate frames for each lid type.
2Reliability
If separate support frames are used for lids with and without trim panels, then each configuration is properly supported, but manufacturing costs and production complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The support frame is designed with a recessed portion that can selectively receive different panel types (with or without trim panels) using the same frame structure. This universal design allows manufacturers to produce a single frame type rather than maintaining inventory of multiple frame variants, simplifying production and reducing manufacturing costs.
3Reliability
If multiple frame designs are maintained for different lids, then each lid fits its specific frame, but inventory complexity and production time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal support frame design that maintains proper lid-frame compatibility through its recessed portion configuration, while eliminating the need to produce multiple frame variants. This single-frame approach streamlines manufacturing operations, reduces inventory complexity, and improves overall production efficiency without sacrificing compatibility.
Data Source
AI summary
A laundry appliance includes a cabinet defining an interior cavity. A frame has a raised outer edge and defines a support structure. A first panel is received by the outer edge of the frame and rests upon the support structure in a first lid configuration. A second panel is received by the outer edge of the frame and rests upon a portion of the support structure in a second lid configuration. A trim is selectively coupled to the support structure in the second lid configuration.