Washing Machine Door Lock Assembly With Nested Lever-Arm Latch
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional washing machine door locks are bulky and occupy valuable space, making them inefficient in terms of design and functionality.
Innovation Solution
A vertical axis washing machine with a door lock assembly that includes a latch and actuator, which is operable to lock the door in a closed position using a lever arm mechanism, allowing for convenient positioning within the appliance and efficient use of space.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a conventional door lock assembly is used, then the door can be locked in the closed position, but the lock assembly occupies valuable space within the washing machine appliance
Solution Approach 1:
The door lock assembly is nested within the door structure itself, with the actuator positioned inside the door and the latch mechanism integrated into the door's internal framework. This nesting approach allows the locking mechanism to occupy minimal additional space while maintaining full locking functionality during high-speed drum rotation.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention repositions the door lock assembly from traditional bulky external mounting to a compact configuration utilizing the door's internal three-dimensional space. By strategically positioning the actuator and latch within the door's structural depth and utilizing vertical space, the design achieves reliable locking with reduced footprint.
2Volume of stationary object
If a compact door lock assembly is used, then space is optimized, but the positioning of the lock may be less convenient for other components
Solution Approach 1:
The door lock assembly is segmented into distinct functional modules: the actuator mechanism, the latch, and the mounting structure. This segmentation allows each component to be independently positioned and manufactured, facilitating convenient assembly and integration with other door components while maintaining a compact overall footprint.
Solution Approach 2:
The door structure itself serves multiple functions: it provides the external door surface, contains the internal lock mechanism, and acts as the mounting framework for the actuator and latch. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate dedicated mounting structures, simplifying manufacturing and component positioning.
Data Source
AI summary
A vertical axis washing machine appliance includes a door pivotably mounted to a cabinet. The door includes a frame, an axle and a lever arm. The axle is fixed to the frame, and the lever arm is fixed to the axle. A door lock assembly is operable to lock the door in a closed position. The door lock assembly includes a latch and an actuator that is operable to move the latch between an engaged position and a disengaged position. The latch is engaged with the lever arm of the door when the latch is in the engaged position.