Washing Machine Auxiliary Unit for Independent Delicate-Item Washing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional washing machines lack a dedicated space for auxiliary washing of delicate items like socks and undergarments, limiting their ability to perform separate and efficient washing cycles.
Innovation Solution
Incorporation of an auxiliary washing unit within the washing machine that includes a separate auxiliary washing space and a discharging assembly, allowing for independent auxiliary washing operations and easy discharge of water, enabling separate washing and draining of laundry items.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a washing machine has only a main washing space formed by the fixed tub and rotating tub, then the structure is simple, but no separate space for washing delicate items like socks and undergarments is available
Solution Approach 1:
The auxiliary washing unit is nested within the door assembly of the washing machine. The door assembly serves as the housing for both the main door and the auxiliary washing unit, allowing the auxiliary washing space to be integrated into the existing structure without requiring additional external space. This nesting approach enables the washing machine to perform both main washing and auxiliary washing functions while maintaining a compact overall structure.
2Adaptability or versatility
If an auxiliary washing unit is added to the door assembly, then separate washing of delicate items is enabled, but the door assembly structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The door assembly is segmented into functional zones: the main door portion for accessing the main washing space, and the auxiliary washing unit portion with its own separate opening, discharging assembly, and washing space. This segmentation allows independent operation of the auxiliary washing unit while integrating it into the door assembly structure. The auxiliary washing unit includes its own water supply, drainage, and washing mechanisms that are separate from the main washing system.
3Ease of operation
If the discharging door is moved between closed and open positions, then laundry can be discharged from auxiliary washing space to main washing space, but the mechanism requires additional components like slider and restriction member
Solution Approach 1:
The discharging door is designed as a movable component that can dynamically change position between closed and open states. The door is coupled to the door holder through a slider mechanism that allows smooth movement along a predetermined path. A restriction member selectively restricts the door at specific positions (closed position and intermediate position) while allowing free movement during discharge. This dynamic design enables easy operation for discharging laundry while maintaining structural integrity during washing operations.
Data Source
AI summary
Provided is a washing machine including an auxiliary washing unit configured with an auxiliary washing space formed separately from a main washing space formed in a rotating tub, and a discharging assembly by which the auxiliary washing space and the main washing space are selectively in communication with each other. Through such a structure, auxiliary washing may be independently performed, and washing efficiency may be enhanced.