Cup Washer Remote Control via Mobile Application for Mode Selection

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing cup washers require direct user interaction for operation and maintenance, lacking a convenient and integrated control method that allows users to select between quick and normal washing modes.

Innovation Solution

A cup washer control method using a mobile device application to remotely control the washer, integrating management and user operations, with modes including quick and normal washing based on user selection, and featuring a management mode for maintenance and initialization.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If users directly touch and operate the cup washer, then the operation can be performed, but the frequency of direct contact increases and convenience is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconvenience of operationVSAvoidautomation level
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSExtent of automation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces a mobile device application as an intermediary between the user and the cup washer. The application communicates with the cup washer controller via a network, allowing users to remotely control washing operations without direct physical contact with the machine. This mediator approach resolves the contradiction by maintaining automation while improving ease of operation through remote access.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The control system is segmented into separate functional components: the cup washer hardware, the mobile device application, and the communication network. This segmentation allows the control interface to be separated from the execution mechanism, enabling users to operate the system remotely through their mobile devices while the cup washer remains automated in its washing execution.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Productivity

If the cup washer operates continuously, then productivity is improved, but energy consumption increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvewashing throughputVSAvoidenergy consumption
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements periodic action by allowing the cup washer to operate in cycles based on user demand rather than continuous operation. Users can initiate washing sessions as needed through the mobile application, and the system transitions between active washing states and standby states. This periodic operation pattern maintains productivity by completing necessary washes while reducing energy consumption during idle periods.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #19Periodic action

Solution Approach 2:

The system incorporates self-service capabilities where the cup washer automatically manages its operation cycles, water heating, and drying processes once initiated by the user through the mobile application. The controller autonomously coordinates between the water heater, washing mechanism, and dryer, minimizing energy waste through efficient resource management and automatic shutdown when tasks are complete.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Reliability

If the water temperature is maintained high, then washing quality is improved, but energy consumption increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvewashing qualityVSAvoidheating energy
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSUse of energy by stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs preliminary heating of water only when a washing session is initiated or anticipated through the mobile application. Rather than maintaining high temperature continuously, the water heater is activated in advance of the actual washing need, heating water to the required temperature for effective cleaning. This preliminary action ensures washing quality is maintained while avoiding unnecessary energy consumption during periods when hot water is not required.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements dynamic parameter changes by adjusting water temperature based on operational requirements. The controller monitors washing cycle progress and modifies heating parameters accordingly - maintaining high temperature during active washing for quality, and reducing or shutting off heating during idle periods to conserve energy. This parameter adjustment strategy resolves the contradiction between washing quality and energy consumption.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Data Source

PatentUS20260090696A1Cup washer control method
Publication Date: 2026.04.02 LG ELECTRONICS INC
  • US20260090696A1 patent drawing
  • US20260090696A1 patent drawing
  • US20260090696A1 patent drawing

AI summary

A cup washer control method is disclosed. The cup washer control method operates in a management mode for checking whether a cup washer is operating normally and a use mode for washing cups, wherein the use mode may include a preparation mode in which the temperature of water stored in a water tank of the cup washer is lower than a set temperature, a standby mode in which the temperature of the water stored in the water tank is higher than or equal to the set temperature, and a wash mode for washing cups accommodated in the cup washer.