Bulk Detergent Drawer Assembly With Reservoir Rinsing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Laundry treating appliances often require frequent replenishment of treating chemistries, leading to inefficient use of space and user inconvenience due to the need for frequent dispensing and potential residue buildup in reservoirs.
Innovation Solution
A bulk dispensing assembly with a withdrawable drawer system that allows for easy access and filling of treating chemistry reservoirs, incorporating a rail assembly for smooth withdrawal and features like rollers and dampeners for usability, along with a method for rinsing reservoirs to prevent residue formation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of time
If traditional dispensing systems are used, then the appliance can dispense treating chemistries, but the frequency of replenishment increases and space utilization decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple treating chemistry reservoirs into a single bulk dispensing assembly that integrates multiple chambers and dispensing mechanisms. This merging approach allows the system to store larger quantities of treating chemistries in a consolidated unit, reducing replenishment frequency while optimizing space utilization through shared structural components and fluid pathways.
Solution Approach 2:
The bulk dispensing assembly utilizes vertical space within the appliance by arranging reservoirs and dispensing mechanisms in a multi-level configuration. This dimensional approach allows the system to accommodate larger storage capacity without increasing the horizontal footprint, thereby reducing replenishment frequency while maintaining efficient space utilization.
2Loss of time
If bulk dispensing assembly is implemented, then replenishment frequency decreases and space utilization improves, but the complexity of the dispensing system increases
Solution Approach 1:
The bulk dispensing assembly is divided into separate modular reservoirs, each capable of holding different treating chemistries. This segmentation allows for independent filling and maintenance of individual chambers while maintaining the overall bulk dispensing functionality, thereby reducing system complexity despite the increased capacity and reduced replenishment frequency.
3Loss of time
If reservoirs are used for bulk storage, then replenishment frequency decreases, but residue buildup in reservoirs increases
Solution Approach 1:
The bulk dispensing assembly incorporates self-cleaning mechanisms including recirculation pumps and spray nozzles that automatically flush the reservoirs and dispensing pathways. This self-service cleaning system prevents residue buildup by continuously circulating cleaning solutions through the reservoirs, allowing the system to maintain bulk storage capacity without the harmful effects of residue accumulation.
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 bulk dispensing assembly reduces the frequency of treating chemistry replenishment, enhances user experience through improved accessibility and usability, and ensures effective cleaning to prevent residue buildup, optimizing space within the appliance.
Implementation Method 1
a recirculation circuit including a recirculation pump having an inlet and an outlet
Implementation Method 2
a bulk treating chemistry dispenser having a dispensing hose fluidly coupled at an angle to the recirculation circuit downstream of the pump outlet
Data Source
AI summary
A laundry treating appliance includes a cabinet defining an interior. A drum is located within the interior and defines a treating chamber. The laundry treating appliance includes a recirculation circuit including a recirculation pump having an inlet and an outlet. The laundry treating appliance further includes a bulk treating chemistry dispenser. A method for rinsing or cleaning the bulk treating chemistry dispenser can be included.