Dishwasher Detergent Cartridge Fill-Level Detection for Precise Dosing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional domestic dishwashers require users to manually dose detergents at the start of each wash cycle, leading to inconsistent detergent quantities, inefficient use, and environmental waste due to the inability to support complex wash programs and precise detergent delivery.
Innovation Solution
A detergent dosing system for domestic appliances that includes a dispenser with a receiving compartment for cartridges holding excess detergent, equipped with a fill-level detection apparatus, allowing for precise detergent delivery and signaling when a predetermined level is reached, using optical, capacitive, or acoustic principles.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If detergent is stored in a cartridge for multiple wash cycles, then the system supports complex wash programs and reduces manual dosing, but the detergents can be used up at different times requiring premature cartridge replacement
Solution Approach 1:
The cartridge is divided into multiple separate chambers, each containing a different detergent type. Each chamber can be independently monitored for fill level, allowing the system to track individual detergent consumption and dispense precise amounts from each chamber according to the specific wash program requirements.
2Manufacturing precision
If the adding device is dimensioned for precise detergent quantity, then dosing accuracy is improved, but the user must manually dose detergent at the start of each wash cycle
Solution Approach 1:
The cartridge is pre-filled with the correct types and amounts of detergents during manufacturing. The user simply needs to insert the pre-dosed cartridge into the device, and the system automatically dispenses the precise required amounts during wash cycles, eliminating the need for manual dosing while maintaining dosing accuracy.
3Measurement precision
If fill level detection is implemented for all chambers, then precise detergent monitoring is achieved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
A single fill level detection apparatus is designed to monitor multiple chambers simultaneously. The detection system uses a unified approach (such as optical or capacitive sensors) that can measure the fill level of each chamber through a common access point or by scanning through the chambers, reducing the need for separate detection mechanisms for each chamber.
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
Ensures economical and cost-effective detergent use by providing the exact amount needed for each wash cycle, reducing waste and environmental impact, while supporting complex wash programs with adjustable dosing operations.
Implementation Method 1
using optical, capacitive, or acoustic principles
Implementation Method 2
using optical, capacitive, or acoustic principles
Implementation Method 3
using optical, capacitive, or acoustic principles
Data Source
AI summary
A water-conducting domestic appliance, in particular a domestic dishwasher, the water-conducting domestic appliance including a washing compartment for receiving items therein that are to be subjected to a washing cycle by the water-conducting domestic appliance; and a detergent dosing system, the detergent dosing system having a detergent dispenser with a receiving compartment, the receiving area for receiving at least one cartridge that is configured to hold at least one detergent, the detergent dosing system having the capability to store a quantity of detergent greater than a quantity needed for a single washing cycle and the detergent dosing system having an apparatus for detecting a fill level in at least one of the detergent dispenser and the at least one cartridge.