Cleaning Indicator With Query Image For Washing Machine
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cleaning processes in washing machines lack efficient and objective methods to determine the effectiveness of soil removal, often requiring manual inspection and being subjective, which can lead to ineffective cleaning cycles.
Innovation Solution
A cleaning indicator system comprising a substrate with a query image and test soil, where the effectiveness of the washing process is automatically evaluated by scanning the indicator using an imaging apparatus to detect the exposure of the query image, allowing for precise determination of cleaning completion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual inspection is used to evaluate cleaning effectiveness, then operator judgment can be applied, but the process is subjective and may lead to ineffective cleaning cycles
Solution Approach 1:
The cleaning indicator automatically evaluates its own cleaning status by detecting the exposed query image after washing, eliminating the need for operator inspection. The indicator serves itself by providing visual feedback through the exposed image pattern that directly indicates cleaning effectiveness
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual visual inspection with an automated detection system using imaging apparatus and image processing algorithms. The system captures images of the cleaning indicator and automatically analyzes the exposed query image to determine cleaning effectiveness, substituting human judgment with automated optical detection
2Measurement precision
If automated image scanning is implemented to detect cleaning effectiveness, then objectivity and precision are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a query image with specific visual characteristics (patterns, colors, or contrast elements) that change from hidden to exposed state during cleaning. The image processing system detects these visual changes to determine cleaning effectiveness, using optical property changes as the detection mechanism
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a visual copy or representation of the cleaning status through the exposed query image. The imaging apparatus captures an optical copy of the indicator, and image processing algorithms analyze this copy to determine cleaning effectiveness, replacing direct physical measurement with optical replication and analysis
3Loss of time
If continuous monitoring is performed during washing cycles, then cleaning completion can be precisely determined, but energy consumption and processing time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The cleaning indicator is pre-configured with a query image and test soil arrangement that enables detection at specific cleaning milestones. The system is designed to detect cleaning effectiveness at key points in the washing cycle rather than requiring continuous monitoring, using preliminary setup to enable efficient periodic detection
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements periodic detection during the washing cycle by capturing images at intervals or at specific stages. The imaging apparatus operates periodically rather than continuously, analyzing the cleaning indicator at strategic moments to determine when cleaning effectiveness thresholds are met, reducing overall energy consumption
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 automatic detection of cleaning effectiveness, preventing further processing if the cycle is ineffective and ensuring that articles are thoroughly cleaned without manual intervention, thereby improving the reliability and efficiency of the washing process.
Implementation Method 1
scanning the cleaning indicator using an imaging apparatus to detect the exposed portion of the at least one query image
Data Source
AI summary
A cleaning indicator including a substrate having an image upon it that can be interrogated to assist in monitoring a process for washing articles in a washing machine system. The image can be a printed image, which in turn is covered at least partially by a test soil to be removed by the washing process. Alternatively, the test soil can be formed into an image on the substrate. The cleaning indicator can be imaged before the start of a washing process to allow the washing process to proceed only if the appropriate image is observed. The cleaning indicator can be imaged during operation of the washing process, and when a criterion for cleanliness is met, the washing process can be automatically terminated. A washing system for using the cleaning indicator in an automated washing process is also disclosed.