Acoustic Sensor Fault Detection for Washing Appliance Flow Devices
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing washing appliances lack an effective method for determining the operational state or fault of components such as diverters and flow devices, leading to inefficient or improper functioning of other components like pumps and spray arms.
Innovation Solution
The appliance includes a microphone positioned at the cabinet to obtain sound vibrations from the wash chamber, and a method that involves obtaining a signal from this microphone during fluid flow and comparing it to a predetermined operational profile to determine if the flow device is operating properly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If no sensor or monitoring system is installed, then the appliance structure remains simple, but the ability to detect faults at flow devices is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical monitoring systems with an acoustic detection system using a microphone to listen for abnormal sounds from flow devices. This substitutes mechanical vibration sensors or complex diagnostic mechanisms with a simpler acoustic field-based detection method, maintaining fault detection capability while reducing structural complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces sound waves as an intermediary medium to detect the operational state of flow devices. Instead of directly monitoring mechanical parameters, the system uses acoustic signals as a mediator to indirectly detect faults, enabling reliable fault detection through a non-intrusive measurement approach that doesn't require direct contact with moving parts
2Productivity
If manual inspection methods are used, then the detection method remains simple, but the productivity and efficiency of fault detection decrease
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables the appliance to perform self-diagnosis by automatically capturing, analyzing, and interpreting acoustic signals from its own flow devices. The system serves itself by detecting faults without external intervention, comparing detected sounds against stored profiles to autonomously identify operational anomalies, thereby significantly improving detection efficiency without requiring complex external diagnostic equipment
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the detected acoustic signals are continuously compared against predetermined operational profiles, and the results are used to determine the operational state of flow devices. This closed-loop feedback system automatically adjusts and maintains optimal operation by identifying deviations from normal acoustic patterns, enhancing productivity through automated real-time monitoring
3Reliability
If comprehensive monitoring of all components is implemented, then the reliability improves, but the device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a universal acoustic detection approach where a single microphone-based system can monitor multiple different flow devices (diverters, spray arms, pumps) using the same fundamental detection methodology. The system achieves multi-functionality by applying one universal acoustic profiling technique across various components, determining operational states without requiring component-specific sensors or monitoring systems, thereby improving reliability while minimizing added complexity
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 allows for the accurate determination of the operational state of flow devices, enabling timely detection of faults and improving the overall efficiency and reliability of the washing appliance.
Implementation Method 1
a microphone positioned at the cabinet and configured to obtain sound vibrations from the wash chamber
Data Source
AI summary
An appliance and method for determining an operational state of the appliance is provided. The appliance includes a cabinet, a flow device, and a sensor positioned at the cabinet. The cabinet includes a plurality of panels forming an interior volume at which a wash chamber is positioned. The flow device is configured to flow a fluid at the wash chamber. The sensor is positioned at the cabinet and configured to obtain sound vibrations from the wash chamber. The method includes obtaining, from the sensor, a signal during flow of a fluid at the wash chamber, and comparing the signal to a predetermined operational profile corresponding to operation of the flow device at the wash chamber to determine whether the flow device is operating properly.