Sprinkler device for a liquid, particularly for dishwashing machine
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sprinkler devices for dishwashing machines are complex, costly, prone to blockages, and difficult to assemble and maintain, with complex structures and rotating components that can lead to leaks and malfunctions.
Innovation Solution
A simplified sprinkler device with a conical distribution element featuring tangential and radial apertures and a bayonet fastener system for easy assembly, made from talc-filled polypropylene for cost savings and improved fluid dynamics, ensuring effective liquid distribution and reduced turbulence.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If rotating arm sprinkler devices are used, then liquid distribution coverage is improved, but device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The conical distribution element is divided into multiple conical portions (first conical portion, second frusto-conical portion) with different conicity angles, each segment serving a specific function in the liquid distribution process. This segmentation allows complex distribution patterns to be achieved through simpler, modular components that can be manufactured separately and assembled.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention transitions from traditional horizontal or vertical spray patterns to a three-dimensional conical distribution pattern. By utilizing the conical geometry with varying conicity angles, the liquid is distributed in a volumetric cone shape, adding a dimensional aspect to the spray coverage that improves area coverage while maintaining structural simplicity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate parts with fasteners and seals are used, then assembly flexibility is improved, but manufacturing cost and assembly complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The conical distribution element and the annular fixing element are merged into a single integrated component manufactured as one piece from talc-filled polypropylene. This consolidation eliminates the need for separate fasteners, seals, and multiple assembly steps, thereby reducing manufacturing cost and assembly complexity while maintaining the functional versatility of the sprinkler device.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated conical distribution element performs multiple functions simultaneously: it distributes liquid through its conical geometry, provides structural support for mounting, and incorporates the fixing mechanism through the annular fixing element. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate components needed while maintaining assembly flexibility.
3Productivity
If rotating components are used, then liquid distribution effectiveness is improved, but reliability decreases due to blockages and wear
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of using rotating components to achieve liquid distribution, the invention inverts the approach by using a stationary conical distribution element. The liquid flow itself, guided by the conical geometry with varying conicity angles, creates the distribution pattern without requiring mechanical rotation. This eliminates wear and blockage issues associated with rotating parts while maintaining distribution effectiveness.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention replaces the mechanical rotation system with a passive fluid dynamic system. The conical distribution element utilizes the kinetic energy and flow characteristics of the liquid to create an effective spray pattern, substituting mechanical motion with fluid mechanics to achieve the same distribution effectiveness without the reliability problems of moving parts.
4Adaptability or versatility
If complex assembly with multiple parts is used, then adaptability is improved, but ease of manufacture and installation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The conical distribution element and annular fixing element are merged into a single integrated component that can be manufactured in one piece using injection molding of talc-filled polypropylene. This consolidation dramatically simplifies the manufacturing process, reducing the number of parts, assembly steps, and quality control requirements while maintaining the adaptability of the device for different mounting configurations.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention uses talc-filled polypropylene as a composite material for manufacturing the integrated sprinkler device. This composite material provides the necessary mechanical properties, chemical resistance, and ease of molding required for the complex conical geometry, enabling cost-effective manufacturing of the integrated component while maintaining structural integrity and adaptability.
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 provides a reliable, cost-effective, and easy-to-maintain sprinkler device with improved fluid dynamics, reducing manufacturing and installation costs while enhancing washing performance and preventing blockages.
Implementation Method 1
palette impeller-shaped sprinkler devices for a liquid, rotating about a vertical axis and adapted to receive a liquid flow from the hydraulic circuit of the dishwashing machine and to provide a radial flow which determines sprinkling rain by gravity on a underlying basket
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to a sprinkler device for a liquid (1), comprising an annular fixing element (2) adapted to be connected to a hydraulic duct (103), and a substantially conical distribution element (3) comprising a conical vertex facing towards the annular fixing element (2) and adapted to distribute a liquid flow coming from the hydraulic duct (103), and further comprising a plurality of holding arms (4) structurally connecting the annular fixing element (2) to the distribution element (3) at a predetermined distance. The present invention also relates to a household washing appliance, particularly to a dishwashing machine; it further refers to a method for manufacturing a sprinkler device for a liquid, and to a method for controlling a household washing appliance, particularly a dishwashing machine.