Washing Machine Hinge Wire Guide for Hidden Electrical Connectivity
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing washing machines face challenges in aesthetically connecting electrical components inside the door and cabinet without exposing wires, which are typically visible and hinder the machine's design.
Innovation Solution
A wire connection structure is introduced where a wire passes through a hinge assembly, guided by a recessed wire guide portion, allowing electrical components inside the door and cabinet to be connected while maintaining the machine's aesthetic integrity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If electrical components inside the door and cabinet are connected using a wire, then electrical connectivity is achieved, but the wire exposure deteriorates the aesthetic appearance of the washing machine
Solution Approach 1:
The hinge assembly serves as an intermediary structure that houses and guides the wire between the door and cabinet. The wire guide portion within the hinge provides a concealed pathway for the wire, allowing electrical connectivity while preventing wire exposure that would compromise aesthetics.
Solution Approach 2:
The wire is nested within the hinge assembly structure, specifically routed through the wire guide portion formed in the hinge. This nesting approach conceals the wire within the existing mechanical structure, eliminating visible wire exposure while maintaining electrical connectivity.
2Reliability
If the wire is routed externally to connect electrical components, then electrical connectivity is achieved, but the wire visibility hinders the machine's design integrity
Solution Approach 1:
The hinge assembly performs dual functions: it provides the mechanical pivot connection for the door and simultaneously serves as a wire routing channel. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate wire management structures, maintaining design integrity while ensuring electrical connectivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The wire routing function is merged with the hinge assembly structure. The wire guide portion is integrated into the hinge, combining the mechanical connection and electrical wiring guidance into a single unified structure, thereby preserving design integrity.
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed is a washing machine having an improved wire connection structure for electrically connecting electrical components. The washing machine includes a cabinet which has a first electrical component, forms an exterior, and has an opening through which laundry is inserted; a door provided with a second electrical component, and configured to open and close the opening; a wire which electrically connects the first electrical component and the second electrical component; and a hinge which has a wire guide portion for coupling the door to the cabinet so as to be rotatable about a rotating axis and for guiding the wire.