Blister Detergent Pack for Sequential Dosing in Washing Machines
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current household washing machines face challenges with detergent compatibility, dosing complexity, and limited customization options, leading to suboptimal cleaning conditions due to the use of universal detergents and rigid manufacturing standards.
Innovation Solution
A blister pack with individually dimensioned compartments for different cleaning substances, allowing for sequential dispensing and customizable washing programs, using a hollow needle for efficient substance delivery and chamber flushing, and optional RFID for advanced program control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a plastic injection-molded detergent container with separate chambers is used, then different substances can be stored separately and dosed sequentially, but the container can only be manufactured in certain dimensions due to injection molding standards, limiting optimization for larger washing machines
Solution Approach 1:
The detergent container is divided into multiple separate chambers, each capable of holding different substances. This segmentation allows independent dosing of each substance according to specific washing requirements, resolving the contradiction by enabling customized detergent composition while maintaining manufacturing feasibility through modular chamber design
Solution Approach 2:
The invention transitions from fixed-dimension injection-molded containers to flexible blister pack technology that can be manufactured in various sizes and configurations. This dimensional flexibility allows the container to adapt to different washing machine capacities while maintaining cost-effective manufacturing through alternative production methods
2Productivity
If complex dosing systems are used to dose substances individually, then optimal washing conditions can be achieved, but the systems are too complex and expensive for household washing machines
Solution Approach 1:
The detergent substances are pre-packaged in separate chambers within the container before use. This preliminary arrangement eliminates the need for complex real-time dosing systems during the washing cycle, as the dosing sequence is predetermined by the physical arrangement of chambers, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining washing efficiency
Solution Approach 2:
The washing machine system automatically identifies and processes the pre-packaged detergent container through RFID technology and coordinated needle mechanisms. The system serves itself by automatically selecting and dosing the correct chambers based on the washing program, eliminating the need for complex manual dosing systems while achieving optimal washing results
3Adaptability or versatility
If universal detergents are used to accommodate all washing needs, then the detergent can be used in various conditions, but optimal cleaning substances under optimal conditions cannot be provided
Solution Approach 1:
Different chambers within the detergent container are assigned specific substances optimized for particular washing needs (e.g., enzymes for protein stains, bleach for white fabrics). This local specialization of detergent components allows the system to provide optimal cleaning substances for specific conditions while maintaining overall versatility through selective chamber activation
Solution Approach 2:
The detergent system transitions from static universal composition to dynamic selective dosing, where specific chambers are activated based on the washing program and fabric type. This dynamic approach allows the detergent composition to adapt to different washing conditions, thereby improving cleaning effectiveness while maintaining versatility across various washing scenarios
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
Enables optimized cleaning with reduced detergent volumes, cost-effectiveness, and flexibility in washing conditions, allowing for the use of aggressive chemicals and varied compositions without the need for complex electronics or large packaging.
Implementation Method 1
A liquid is introduced into the chamber through the hollow needle and the liquid is used to transport the substance in the chamber to the object or objects which are to be treated with the substance
Implementation Method 2
the corresponding chamber of the blister pack used is flooded or rinsed with a liquid using a hollow needle and passed on to the objects to be treated
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a system for treating, in particular for washing and/or cleaning, objects in private households, especially for washing laundry. The invention further relates to a machine for carrying out the treating, washing, or cleaning process and an associated method. The system comprises a blister packaging having various chambers and different substances located therein. The packaging comprises a memory having a program stored therein for performing the treatment. A treatment within the meaning of the invention can comprise washing laundry or washing dishes.