Washing agent dispenser and mounting method
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Solution Overview
Problem
Household dishwashers with plastic or polymeric tub walls face deformation and expansion issues during heating cycles, leading to potential leakages around the washing-agent dispenser due to inadequate sealing, which complicates the fixing process and increases production time.
Innovation Solution
A washing-agent dispenser designed for simple and reliable mounting on plastic or polymeric tub walls using a frame and counter-frame system with an annular gasket and reinforcement edge to counter deformations, ensuring a secure and leak-proof seal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the dispenser is fixed firmly using threaded members and axial gasket compression, then sealing reliability is improved, but device complexity and manufacturing time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The fixing system is divided into two functional parts: a frame that provides structural support and counters wall deformation, and a counter-frame that secures the dispenser body. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function efficiently without requiring complex threaded fastening mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The frame and counter-frame are combined to form an integrated fixing system that simultaneously provides structural reinforcement and secure mounting. The gasket is compressed between these two components, merging the sealing function with the fixing structure itself, eliminating the need for separate threaded members.
2Ease of manufacture
If the dispenser is mounted on plastic tub walls, then cost reduction and shape flexibility are achieved, but thermal deformation and leakage risk increase
Solution Approach 1:
The frame is designed with a reinforcement edge that proactively counters the expected thermal deformation of the plastic wall before it can compromise the seal. By positioning the reinforcement edge to contact the mounting wall and resist outward deformation, the system prevents leakage rather than reacting to it after occurrence.
Solution Approach 2:
The frame acts as an intermediary between the plastic mounting wall and the dispenser body. It transfers and distributes the mechanical stresses, isolating the gasket from the thermal deformation of the plastic wall while maintaining secure mounting. The frame mediates between the expanding wall and the fixed dispenser structure.
3Reliability
If a reinforcement frame is added to counter wall deformation, then sealing reliability under thermal expansion is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The frame serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides structural reinforcement to counter wall deformation, secures the dispenser body through the counter-frame connection, and compresses the gasket to ensure sealing. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate components for each function, reducing overall structural complexity despite the added reinforcement capability.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution allows for fast, easy, and reliable installation of the dispenser while maintaining a tight seal, even under thermal expansion, reducing production complexity and preventing leaks.
Implementation Method 1
a sealing gasket is usually provided between the aforesaid front portion of the dispenser and the front side of the mounting wall
Implementation Method 2
the mounting wall is directly exposed to the washing environment, it may occasionally be subject to deformations or expansions, in particular during steps of an operating cycle of the dishwasher that involve heating
Data Source
AI summary
A washing-agent dispenser designed for being mounted at a through opening (A) of a tub wall (5) of a dishwasher comprises:—a dispenser body (11), having a rear part (11′) and a front part (11″); —a perimetral gasket (30) mounted in a corresponding seat (S) of the dispenser body (11) and prearranged for exerting a sealing action with respect to a mounting side (5a) of the tub wall (5); —a frame (40) having a substantially annular shape, defining a central passage (B) through which the rear part (11′) of the dispenser body (11) is insertable. The frame (40) has at least one of the following:—first coupling means (41), which can be coupled to corresponding second coupling means (16) provided in the dispenser body (11), the first coupling means (41) and the second coupling means (16) being configured for fixing of the dispenser body (11) at the through opening (A) of the tub wall (5), in a condition of at least partial compression of the perimetral gasket (30) for exerting thereby a sealing action between the dispenser body (11) and the mounting side (5a) of the tub wall (5); and—reinforcement means (42, 43), prearranged for countering possible deformation or yielding of the tub wall (5) at least in an area thereof that circumscribes the corresponding through opening (A).