Washing Machine Coupling Structure for Shock-Resistant Attachment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional washing machines require multiple fastening members for assembling the element receiving unit to the cabinet, increasing production costs and reducing efficiency, and are prone to separation due to external shocks.
Innovation Solution
The washing machine incorporates a coupling structure with a coupling panel and receiving panel featuring pivotally rotated holders and protrusions, which securely attach the element receiving unit to the cabinet using a reduced number of fastening members, preventing separation during operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If multiple fastening members are used to assemble the element receiving unit to the cabinet, then the connection strength is improved, but the production cost increases and production efficiency deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates multiple fastening functions into a single coupling panel structure. The coupling panel combines multiple holders and positioning features into one unified component that simultaneously performs multiple fastening operations, eliminating the need for separate fastening members and thereby improving both connection strength and production efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling panel is divided into multiple functional segments including first holder, second holder, and positioning protrusions. Each segment performs a specific fastening function, allowing the single component to replace multiple fastening members while maintaining strong connections through distributed attachment points.
2Strength
If multiple fastening members are used to assemble the element receiving unit to the cabinet, then the connection strength is improved, but the production cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent consolidates multiple fastening members into a single integrated coupling panel, reducing the total number of parts that need to be manufactured, inventoried, and assembled. This merging approach maintains strong connections while significantly reducing production costs through simplified manufacturing processes and reduced material usage.
3Ease of operation
If the element receiving unit is assembled using separate fastening members, then the assembly process is straightforward, but the element receiving unit frequently separates due to external shock
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling panel incorporates a pivotal rotation mechanism that allows dynamic adjustment during assembly and operation. The panel can pivot to accommodate external shocks and vibrations while maintaining secure attachment, preventing separation that occurs with rigid fastening systems. This dynamic capability enhances reliability without complicating the assembly process.
4Ease of operation
If the coupling panel is pivotally rotated during assembly, then the second holder is automatically fitted into the second receiving hole, but the assembly process becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling panel is pre-configured with holders and positioning protrusions in specific orientations that enable automatic alignment during pivotal rotation. The first holder is positioned to engage first, and the pivotal motion automatically brings the second holder into alignment with the second receiving hole, eliminating the need for complex manual alignment procedures despite the added rotational mechanism.
Data Source
AI summary
A washing machine including a cabinet, a tub placed within the cabinet, a wash tub located within the tub to receive laundry therein, an element receiving unit in which elements are received, the element receiving unit being coupled to one side of the cabinet, a coupling panel provided at the element receiving unit so as to be coupled to the cabinet, a receiving panel provided at the cabinet so as to receive at least a portion of the coupling panel, a first holder and a second holder formed at the coupling panel, and a first receiving hole and a second receiving hole perforated in the receiving panel to receive the first holder and the second holder respectively therein. The coupling panel is pivotally rotated after the first holder is positioned into the first receiving hole, causing the second holder to be fitted into the second receiving hole.