Washing machine having an automatic detergent supply apparatus
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing detergent supply apparatuses in washing machines have poor usability and operational complexity, with separate compartments for detergents and fabric softeners, requiring manual insertion and lacking an automatic supply mechanism, which complicates the washing process and user interaction.
Innovation Solution
An automatic detergent supply apparatus with a detergent box mounted on the door guide of the washing machine, featuring a detachable and slidable design, a built-in pump for detergent dispensing, and a sensor for monitoring detergent levels, allowing for efficient and convenient dispensing of both detergents and fabric softeners directly into the washing tub.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If a detergent box with multiple compartments is installed above the washing machine, then detergent storage capacity is improved, but device complexity and operational difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The detergent box is merged with the door guide structure, integrating storage functionality into an existing structural component. This combination eliminates the need for a separate overhead detergent storage unit, reducing overall device complexity while maintaining storage capacity.
Solution Approach 2:
The detergent box with multiple compartments is nested within the door guide structure. The first accommodating portion for detergent and second accommodating portion for fabric softener are arranged in a nested configuration within the door guide's incision portion, maximizing space utilization without increasing external dimensions.
2Ease of operation
If a detergent box is made detachable and slidable, then ease of operation is improved, but reliability of detergent supply may worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The detergent box is designed with dynamic characteristics, allowing it to slide along the door guide and be detached when needed. The guide grooves and guide protrusions enable controlled movement while maintaining connection during normal operation, providing both accessibility and operational reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The door guide acts as an intermediary structure between the detergent box and the washing machine body. It provides the incision portion that allows the detergent box to be partially extracted, and the guide grooves that ensure proper alignment and connection, mediating between the need for accessibility and supply reliability.
3Shape
If the detergent box is integrated into the door guide, then aesthetic appearance is improved, but ease of manufacture worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The detergent box is segmented into separate components including the box body, cover, and pump assembly. The door guide with incision portion is also a separate component. This segmentation allows each part to be manufactured independently using standard processes, then assembled together, improving manufacturability while maintaining the integrated aesthetic appearance.
Solution Approach 2:
The door guide structure serves multiple functions: it guides the door movement, provides structural support, and houses the detergent box with automatic supply mechanism. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components, simplifying the overall assembly process while improving aesthetic appearance through seamless integration.
4Productivity
If an automatic detergent supply pump is installed, then productivity of washing process is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The detergent supply system is designed to operate automatically without user intervention. The pump is triggered by a sensor that detects when detergent is needed, and the system self-regulates the supply amount based on washing cycle requirements. This automation improves productivity while the pump mechanism remains relatively simple, connected directly to the detergent box through the door guide structure.
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
Enhances user convenience by automating detergent supply, increasing storage capacity, and simplifying the washing process while maintaining aesthetic appeal through a seamless integration with the washing machine design.
Implementation Method 1
a detergent supply pump provided to discharge a detergent in the detergent box
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3
Figure 4
AI summary
Disclosed herein is a washing machine comprising a detergent supply apparatus (100). The detergent supply apparatus (100) comprises: a detergent box (120) comprising a first accommodating portion (126a) adapted for storing a detergent and a second accommodating portion (126b) adapted for storing a fabric softener; a detergent supply pump (140) connected to the detergent box (120), and having a first outlet (148a) connected to the first accommodating portion (126a) to discharge the detergent contained in the first accommodating portion (126a), and a second outlet (148b) connected to the second accommodating portion (126b) to discharge the fabric softener from the second accommodating portion (126b); a first washing product supply pipe (161) connected to the first outlet (148a; a second washing product supply pipe (162) connected to the second outlet (148b); wherein: the first connection pipe (150) includes a first washing product connection pipe (153a) to connect the first connection pipe (150) and the first washing product supply pipe (161) and a second washing product connection pipe (153b) to connect the first connection pipe (150) and the second washing product supply pipe (162), and the first washing product supply pipe (161) and the second washing product supply pipe (162) connected to the first connection pipe (150) to supply the detergent and the fabric softener to the tub (13) therethrough, respectively, so that when the detergent supply pump (140) operates, the detergent stored in the first accommodating portion (126a) is discharged to the first connection pipe (150) via the first washing product supply pipe (161) and the fabric softener stored in the second accommodating portion (126b) is discharged to the first connection pipe (150) via the second washing product supply pipe (162).