Agitator-Integrated Bulk Dispenser for Multi-Dose Detergent Storage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Users of laundry treating appliances often need to handle treating chemistry frequently, as existing systems lack a convenient method for storing and dispensing multiple doses efficiently.
Innovation Solution
A bulk dispenser is integrated within the laundry treating appliance, featuring a tubular tank with a rotatable actuator and dispenser, allowing for controlled dispensing of treating chemistry through a shaft connected to the actuator, enabling rotation to dispense the chemistry into the treating chamber.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a bulk dispenser is integrated into the agitator, then user handling of treating chemistry is reduced, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The bulk dispenser is nested within the hollow shaft of the agitator, utilizing the existing internal space of the agitator structure. The tubular tank is positioned inside the hollow shaft, and the shaft itself serves as the dispensing mechanism, creating a compact integrated system that reduces user handling while minimizing additional structural complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The hollow shaft of the agitator serves multiple functions: it provides structural support for the agitator, acts as the dispensing conduit for treating chemistry, and houses the bulk dispenser mechanism. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated dispenser structures, thereby reducing overall device complexity while improving ease of operation
2Duration of action of stationary object
If multiple doses are stored in a bulk dispenser, then the duration of action is extended, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple doses of treating chemistry are pre-loaded into the tubular tank during manufacturing or initial setup, eliminating the need for repeated user refilling operations. The bulk dispenser is configured to automatically dispense predetermined doses over multiple cycles, extending the duration of action while requiring minimal user interaction beyond the initial loading
Solution Approach 2:
The bulk dispenser system automatically manages the dispensing of multiple doses without requiring user intervention for each dose. The rotatable actuator mechanism automatically advances the dispensing process, and the system self-regulates to provide the correct amount of treating chemistry for each cycle based on pre-programmed parameters
3Measurement precision
If a rotatable actuator mechanism is used, then the precision of dispensing is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The rotatable actuator is equipped with a controller that receives feedback from sensors to monitor the position and rotation of the actuator. This feedback mechanism ensures precise control over the dispensing process, allowing the system to accurately dispense the correct amount of treating chemistry for each dose while compensating for any variations in the dispensing mechanism
Solution Approach 2:
The manual mechanical dispensing mechanism is replaced with an automated rotatable actuator system controlled by electronic controls and sensors. This substitution provides more precise control over the dispensing process compared to simple mechanical mechanisms, as the electronic control system can accurately measure and regulate the rotation and dispensing rate
Data Source
AI summary
A laundry treating appliance includes a treating chamber, an agitator rotatably mounted in the treating chamber and having a skirt and a hollow shaft extending upwardly from the skirt, and a bulk dispenser located within the hollow shaft. The bulk dispenser includes a tubular tank with a rotatable actuator on one end, a dispenser on the other end, and a shaft passing through the tubular tank and connecting the rotatable actuator to the dispenser. Rotating of the actuator, effects a rotation of the shaft, which effects a dispensing of the treating chemistry from the tubular tank via the dispenser.