Control Panel Detergent Layout for Automatic Washer Dosing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fully automatic washing machines have inconvenient and aesthetically flawed designs for adding detergents, requiring users to manually dispense and measure detergents, which can lead to inconsistent washing results and user discomfort.
Innovation Solution
A control panel base with an integrated automatic detergent dispensing system, featuring a chamber with a Venturi tube for negative pressure-driven dispensing, water uniformization structures, and multiple detergent ports for convenient access and precise dispensing of both solid and liquid detergents.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the detergent box is disposed inside the control panel base, then the detergent storage is integrated, but the aesthetics and support strength of the control panel base are affected
Solution Approach 1:
The detergent box is nested within the control panel base structure, with the box positioned in a recessed cavity that is integrated into the overall design. This nesting approach allows the detergent storage function to be incorporated without compromising the external aesthetics or structural integrity of the control panel base.
2Volume of stationary object
If the detergent box is disposed inside the control panel base, then the structure is compact, but the user must pull out the box to add detergent which is troublesome
Solution Approach 1:
The detergent box is pre-positioned in a readily accessible location within the control panel base, and the dispensing mechanism is pre-configured to automatically release detergent at appropriate times during the washing cycle. This eliminates the need for users to manually access or manipulate the box during operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates an automatic detergent dispensing mechanism that self-regulates the release of detergent based on washing cycle requirements. The mechanism includes sensors and control systems that automatically manage detergent flow without user intervention, making the system serve itself.
3Device complexity
If the detergent box is disposed at back of the control panel base, then the structure is simplified, but the user needs to stretch arm to add detergent which is inconvenient
Solution Approach 1:
The detergent box is positioned in a vertically optimized location within the control panel base, utilizing vertical space rather than horizontal depth. This dimensional repositioning allows the box to be located at an ergonomically accessible height and position, eliminating the need for users to stretch their arms while maintaining structural simplicity.
4Device complexity
If manual detergent dispensing is used, then the device is simple, but the dispensing amount is inconsistent which affects washing effect
Solution Approach 1:
The manual mechanical dispensing system is replaced with an automated control system that uses electronic sensors, microprocessors, and controlled valve mechanisms to regulate detergent flow. This substitution of mechanical manual operation with automated control systems enables precise measurement and consistent dispensing of detergent amounts.
Solution Approach 2:
The dispensing system incorporates feedback mechanisms including flow sensors, level detectors, and control algorithms that monitor and adjust detergent dispensing in real-time. This feedback loop ensures that the exact required amount of detergent is dispensed consistently, improving washing effectiveness while maintaining system simplicity through intelligent control.
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 facilitates modular production, enhances user convenience, ensures even detergent distribution, and improves the washing machine's aesthetics by allowing for automatic and precise dispensing of detergents, reducing manual effort and improving washing effectiveness.
Implementation Method 1
A control panel base with an integrated automatic detergent dispensing system, featuring a chamber with a Venturi tube for negative pressure-driven dispensing
Data Source
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AI summary
A washing machine control panel base (2) with function of automatically adding detergent is provided. At least one chamber (4) configured to dispense solid detergents, at least one container (5) configured to contain liquid detergents, and an automatic detergent dispensing apparatus (6) which is in communication with both the chamber (4) and the container (5) are disposed in the control panel base (2); an upper end surface (21) of the control panel base (2) is provided with at least two detergent dispensing ports (7); and each of the detergent dispensing ports (7) is respectively in communication with the chamber (4) and the container (5) correspondingly. An accommodation space (26) formed by an outer circumferential wall (22), an upper end surface (21) connected to the outer circumferential wall (22), and an inner circumferential wall (23) that forms a clothing feeding port (24) is below the control panel base (2), and the chamber (4), the container (5), and the automatic detergent dispensing apparatus (6) are all disposed in the accommodation space (26). The design fully takes advantage of an internal space of the control panel base (2) of the washing machine, and the novel layout is user-friendly. The chamber (4) for dispensing solid detergents is of an integrally formed structure, and is simple in structure.