Detergent storage container and method for manufacturing the same
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing detergent supply devices require manual replenishment and frequent opening to check detergent levels, leading to user fatigue and potential errors in detecting residual detergent amounts, with existing solutions failing to accurately sense detergent levels without manual intervention.
Innovation Solution
A detergent storage container with a built-in residual amount detecting unit, featuring a support bracket with exposed electrodes and a detergent blocking rib, which automatically detects the detergent level and prevents false readings, allowing for automatic detection and notification of low detergent levels.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If a detergent storage container is designed to store a large amount of laundry detergent, then the storage capacity is improved, but the ability to automatically detect residual detergent amount deteriorates due to difficulty in sensor installation and false sensing from detergent stuck to container walls
Solution Approach 1:
The detergent storage container is divided into a detachable container body and a separate detection unit. The detection unit can be independently installed and removed, allowing accurate sensing without being affected by detergent residue on the container walls. This segmentation enables the detection system to be positioned optimally for measurement while the container maintains large storage capacity.
Solution Approach 2:
A detection unit is introduced as an intermediary component between the detergent storage container and the control system. This detection unit includes sensors that accurately measure residual detergent levels and transmit signals to the controller, which then controls the pump operation. The intermediary detection unit isolates the measurement function from the storage function, preventing false readings from container-wall adhered detergent.
2Extent of automation
If a sensor is separately installed to automatically detect laundry detergent stored in the storage container, then the automation is improved, but the measurement precision deteriorates due to incorrect sensing of residual amount from detergent stuck to the storage container
Solution Approach 1:
The detection function is extracted from the main container structure and implemented as a separate detection unit with dedicated sensors. This extraction allows the detection system to be positioned in an optimal location for accurate measurement, away from areas where detergent accumulates on container walls. The separate detection unit can be strategically placed to measure detergent levels without interference from residue.
Solution Approach 2:
The detection unit provides continuous feedback to the controller about the residual detergent level. The controller uses this feedback information to determine when to activate the pump and how long to operate it. This feedback mechanism ensures accurate automatic control based on real detergent levels, preventing both over-dosing and under-dosing by relying on precise sensor data rather than manual estimation.
3Device complexity
If manual opening of the detergent storage container is required to check detergent levels, then the device complexity is reduced, but the ease of operation deteriorates due to user fatigue from frequent opening and closing
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs self-monitoring of detergent levels through the detection unit and automatically controls detergent dispensing through the pump. The controller receives signals from the detection unit and autonomously manages the detergent supply process without requiring user intervention for checking or refilling. This self-service capability eliminates the need for users to manually open the container frequently, reducing fatigue while maintaining simple container structure.
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
Enhances user convenience by allowing automatic detergent supply and accurate detection of residual amounts, reducing user fatigue and errors, while simplifying the manufacturing process and improving productivity.
Implementation Method 1
a residual amount detecting unit installed at one side of a rear side surface of the detergent storage member and configured to detect a residual amount of laundry detergent stored in the detergent storage member
Data Source
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AI summary
The present disclosure relates to a detergent storage container (221) comprising a detergent storage member (221C, 221) in which an upper side thereof is opened and having a storage space to store laundry detergent, a storage container cover (221) installed to cover the opening (21, 332) of the detergent storage member (221C, 221), and a residual amount detecting unit (260) installed at one side of a rear surface of the detergent storage member (221C, 221) and configured to detect a residual amount of laundry detergent stored in the detergent storage member (221C, 221) by a current sensed from the laundry detergent stored in the detergent storage member (221C, 221), and a method for manufacturing the same.