Washing Machine Lid Compound Pivot Hinge for Controlled Opening Force
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional washing machines lack effective mechanisms to dampen the force required to open the lid and provide controlled opening, with limited space for distributing the opening force, making it difficult to access the wash basket efficiently.
Innovation Solution
A hinge mechanism with a compound pivot axis and a hydraulic damper or spring is used to connect the lid to the top panel, allowing for a wider range of motion and precise control over the opening force, enabling the lid to rotate through a plane defined by the transverse and vertical directions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Force
If conventional mechanical fasteners are used to attach the lid, then the lid can be securely connected to the cabinet, but the opening force cannot be effectively damped and control over opening force is limited
Solution Approach 1:
A hinge mechanism is introduced as an intermediary component between the lid and cabinet. This hinge includes a hydraulic damper that acts as a mediator to control the opening force, providing smooth and controlled lid movement while maintaining secure connection.
Solution Approach 2:
A hydraulic damper is integrated into the hinge mechanism to control the opening force. The hydraulic system provides damping effect that regulates the speed and force of lid opening, enabling precise control over the opening process while maintaining structural connection.
2Strength
If the clearance between the lid and cabinet is kept small, then the sealing performance is improved, but the physical space for distributing opening force is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The hinge mechanism extends the connection in a dimensional direction perpendicular to the lid-cabinet interface. By positioning the hinge at the lateral edge of the lid rather than directly at the sealing interface, the opening force is distributed along a different spatial dimension, preserving the tight clearance needed for sealing while providing adequate leverage space.
3Ease of operation
If a hinge mechanism with compound pivot axis is used, then control over opening force is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The hinge mechanism combines multiple functions into a single integrated component. The pivot axis, hydraulic damper, and mounting structure are merged into one assembly that attaches the lid to the cabinet, providing controlled opening while simplifying installation and maintenance compared to separate components.
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
This solution provides a sturdy and reliable connection, allowing the lid to open fully, offering improved accessibility and control over the opening force, enhancing user interaction with the wash chamber.
Implementation Method 1
A hinge mechanism with a compound pivot axis and a hydraulic damper or spring is used to connect the lid to the top panel, allowing for a wider range of motion and precise control over the opening force
Implementation Method 2
A hinge mechanism with a compound pivot axis and a hydraulic damper or spring is used to connect the lid to the top panel, allowing for a wider range of motion and precise control over the opening force
Data Source
AI summary
A washing machine includes a cabinet defining a lateral direction, a transverse direction, and a vertical direction. The lateral, transverse, and vertical directions are mutually orthogonal. The washing machine appliance also includes a top panel on the cabinet that defines an opening. A wash chamber is defined within the cabinet below the opening of the top panel. The washing machine appliance also includes a lid which is rotatable through a plane defined by the transverse direction and the vertical direction between a closed position to sealingly enclose the wash chamber and an open position to permit access to the wash chamber. A hinge rotatably connects the lid to the top panel. The hinge defines a compound pivot axis. The lid rotates relative to the top panel about the compound pivot axis.