Automatic detergent supply apparatus and washing machine having the same
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional detergent supply systems in washing machines are cumbersome, with detergent boxes often located at the top, making them difficult to operate and having a poor external shape, which negatively impacts usability and aesthetics.
Innovation Solution
A detergent supply apparatus is integrated into the bottom of the washing machine, featuring a detergent box that can be withdrawn easily with one touch, utilizing a pump system for automatic detergent and fabric softener dispensing, and a design that improves the machine's external shape and usability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the detergent box is located at the top of the washing machine body, then the detergent supply apparatus can be installed, but it becomes difficult to operate and has poor external shape
Solution Approach 1:
The detergent box is moved from the conventional top position to the bottom position of the washing machine body. This inversion of the detergent supply apparatus location resolves the contradiction by making the detergent box easier to access and operate while simultaneously improving the external shape and aesthetics of the washing machine by eliminating the protruding top structure
2Shape
If the detergent box is located at the top of the washing machine body, then the detergent supply apparatus can be installed, but the external shape becomes poor
Solution Approach 1:
The detergent box is repositioned from the top to the bottom of the washing machine body. This inversion eliminates the protruding structure at the top that degraded the external shape, while the bottom location provides easier access and operation for users
3Adaptability or versatility
If the detergent box is divided into multiple detergent insertion spaces, then different types of detergent can be stored, but it requires inserting detergent for every washing thereby deteriorating usability
Solution Approach 1:
The detergent box is designed with a large single storage space that can accommodate multiple detergent cartridges or containers in advance. This preliminary storage capacity allows users to load multiple detergent types at once, eliminating the need to repeatedly insert detergent for each washing cycle and significantly improving usability
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
The solution enhances usability by allowing easy access to detergent and fabric softener, improves the washing machine's design aesthetics, and provides automatic and efficient detergent supply, increasing user convenience and product usability.
Implementation Method 1
a detergent supply pump provided to discharge a detergent in the detergent box
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed herein is a washing machine that includes a tub disposed in a main body of the washing machine to store water. A circulation apparatus includes a circulation pump operable to circulate the water in and out of the tub. A detergent supply apparatus is coupled to the circulation apparatus to discharge detergent to the circulation apparatus so that operation of the circulation pump causes the discharged detergent to be supplied to the tub.