Binary motor for independent operation of multiple components within an appliance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing laundry appliances with single motor systems face limitations in independently and selectively operating a rotating drum and impeller, which restricts the range of agitation sequences and efficiency in washing processes.
Innovation Solution
A binary motor system with two motors housed in a common unit, utilizing separate drive belts and shafts to independently operate the drum and impeller, allowing for independent speed and direction control, and incorporating a transfer shaft for efficient torque distribution.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a single motor system is used to drive both drum and impeller, then the device complexity is reduced, but the ability to independently and selectively operate drum and impeller is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The single motor system is segmented into two independent motors (first motor and second motor) within a common housing. Each motor independently drives one component (drum or impeller) through separate drive belts, enabling independent and selective operation of both components without excessive complexity
Solution Approach 2:
Two separate motors are merged into a single common housing structure, allowing both motors to share the same mounting space and structural support. This combining approach enables independent operation capability while controlling overall device complexity through shared infrastructure
2Adaptability or versatility
If a binary motor system with two motors is used, then the range of agitation sequences is expanded, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The binary motor system provides multi-functionality by enabling various agitation sequences (washing, rinsing, soaking, etc.) through different combinations of drum and impeller operation modes. Both motors can operate independently, simultaneously, or in sequence to achieve diverse washing functions from a single motor assembly
Solution Approach 2:
The system adds a new dimension of control by introducing a second motor that operates independently from the first motor. This additional degree of freedom enables complex agitation sequences that combine rotational motion of the drum with independent motion of the impeller, expanding the range of possible washing patterns
3Ease of operation
If separate drive belts are used for each motor, then independent speed and direction control is achieved, but the manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The drive system is segmented into separate drive belts for each motor, with the first drive belt connecting the first motor to the drum and the second drive belt connecting the second motor to the impeller. This segmentation enables independent speed and direction control of each component while maintaining manageable assembly complexity through modular belt installation
Data Source
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AI summary
A laundry appliance (14) includes a drum (16) rotationally positioned within a structural cabinet (20). An impeller (20) is rotationally positioned within the drum (16). The impeller (20) is selectively and independently operable with respect to the drum (16). A binary motor (10) has a first motor (22) and a second motor (24) disposed within a common housing (26). A first drive belt (28) extends between the first motor (22) and the drum (16). A second drive belt (30) extends between the second motor (24) and the impeller (20). The first and second motors (22, 24) engage the first and second drive belts (28, 30) on a belt side (36) of the common housing (26).