Washer Tub Rib Structure for Fastening Boss Vibration Loads

The patent applies local quality by making the ribs have different thicknesses at different locations. Specifically, the ribs are thicker in the radial direction (outer direction from the central axis) where they reinforce the fastening bosses, while being thinner in the circumferential direction. This localized variation in rib thickness provides targeted reinforcement exactly where the fastening bosses need support to withstand high-speed rotation vibrations, without unnecessarily increasing the overall structure weight or complexity.

The patent merges the reinforcement function with the existing rib structure of the tub. Instead of adding separate reinforcement components or brackets around the fastening bosses, the design integrates the reinforcing ribs directly into the tub's existing rib framework. The ribs serve dual purposes: maintaining the tub's structural integrity and simultaneously reinforcing the fastening bosses. This integration approach strengthens the fastening bosses while avoiding additional separate components that would increase device complexity.

The patent applies segmentation by dividing the reinforcement structure into multiple discrete ribs arranged around each fastening boss. Instead of creating one large complex reinforcement feature, the design uses several smaller rib elements positioned at different angular locations around the fastening boss. This segmentation allows stress to be distributed across multiple discrete contact points, improving the overall stress distribution. The segmented rib structure can also be more easily molded or manufactured compared to a single large reinforcement feature.