Washing Machine Door Recirculation Coupling for Hidden Tub Piping
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
In larger washing machines, the recirculation line protrudes externally, leading to aesthetic and safety issues due to potential damage from external contact.
Innovation Solution
The recirculation line is divided into two parts with a coupling point that connects liquid-tight when the door is closed, allowing the line to be hidden under door components, and is partially integrated into a ballast weight and door handle for protection and concealment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the recirculation line is led externally from the tub to the door connector, then the recirculation function is achieved, but the line protrudes into the area in front of the washing machine causing aesthetic issues and safety risks
Solution Approach 1:
The recirculation line is divided into two separate parts: a first part extending from the tub to the door, and a second part extending from the door to the door connector. This segmentation allows each part to be optimally positioned and protected, with the coupling point hidden within the door structure, eliminating the protruding external line while maintaining full recirculation functionality.
2Shape
If the recirculation line is concealed under door components, then the aesthetic appearance is improved, but the assembly complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The first part of the recirculation line is pre-positioned to extend from the tub to the door, and the second part is pre-positioned from the door to the connector. The coupling point is designed to align automatically when the door is closed, allowing the concealed configuration to be achieved without complex assembly procedures. The preliminary positioning of components simplifies the final assembly while maintaining the aesthetic concealed appearance.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
The invention relates to a washing machine (1) with a substantially cylindrical tub (2) which has an opening (6) for filling in laundry on a top surface (5), the opening (6) itself or a corresponding opening in a den housing surrounding the tub can be closed by a door pivotably mounted on the tub (2) or housing, and with a flow-through device which removes washing liquid from the tub (2) via a flow-through line (19) and returns it through the door (7) to the tub ( 2) brings in. In order to enable the bypass line to be laid safely, it is proposed that the bypass line (19) consists of at least a first (21) and a second part (22) and that between one end (21.1) of the first part (21) and one end (22.1) of the second part (22) there is a coupling point which can be connected in a liquid-tight manner by closing the door (7).