Automatic Detergent Dosing Valve for Washing Machine Feed Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Users often fail to supply the correct amount of detergent to a washing machine, requiring manual input each time, which is inconvenient and inefficient.
Innovation Solution
A detergent feeding apparatus with a valve system that automatically introduces the suggested amount of detergent into the washing machine tub, using a cam-driven mechanism to alternate between inlet and outlet valves for precise control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual detergent input is required each time, then the user has control over detergent addition, but the operation becomes inconvenient and inefficient
Solution Approach 1:
The detergent container is designed to automatically supply detergent to the tub without user intervention. The container includes automatic feeding mechanisms that dispense the required amount of detergent during the washing cycle, eliminating the need for manual input and improving both convenience and efficiency
Solution Approach 2:
The user loads the detergent container in advance before the washing cycle begins. The container is pre-filled with detergent and configured to automatically dispense the correct amount during operation, transforming the manual task into a preliminary setup action that improves subsequent operational efficiency
2Ease of operation
If automatic detergent supply is implemented, then convenience is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The detergent container is divided into multiple compartments: a storage chamber for bulk detergent and a dispensing chamber for active supply. The valve apparatus is segmented into inlet valves for filling and outlet valves for dispensing, with each segment performing a specific function. This segmentation allows automatic operation while keeping each component relatively simple and manageable
Solution Approach 2:
The valve apparatus operates periodically, alternating between inlet and outlet valves in a cyclic manner. The control unit opens inlet valves to fill the dispensing chamber, then closes them and opens outlet valves to dispense detergent, repeating this cycle as needed. This periodic operation simplifies control logic while achieving automatic supply functionality
3Measurement precision
If precise detergent amount control is required, then detergent efficiency improves, but the control mechanism becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The control unit monitors the washing cycle progress and detergent consumption, automatically controlling the opening and closing timing of inlet and outlet valves. The system tracks how much detergent has been dispensed and adjusts valve operation to ensure the correct total amount is supplied, providing precise control through automated feedback-based management
Solution Approach 2:
The system supplies a predetermined sufficient amount of detergent that covers the required dosage, ensuring adequate cleaning without requiring complex real-time measurement adjustments. The valve timing and duration are calibrated to deliver appropriate quantities for different wash loads, achieving precision through pre-calibrated partial actions rather than continuous adjustment
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 the correct amount of detergent is automatically supplied with each wash cycle, enhancing convenience and efficiency by eliminating the need for manual input.
Implementation Method 1
The valve driving unit may include a cam rotatively disposed at a lower portion of the valve apparatus. As the cam is rotated, the outlet shaft and the inlet shaft are alternatively ascended or descended.
Data Source
AI summary
A detergent feeding apparatus that automatically supplies a detergent to a washing machine. The washing machine including a cabinet, a tub to accommodate water at an inside therein, and a detergent feeding apparatus to supply at least one detergent along with wash water to the tub. Wherein the detergent feeding apparatus includes a detergent container housing installed at an inside the cabinet, a detachable detergent container, and at least one valve apparatus configured in a way that the detergent accommodated at the detergent container is automatically put into the detergent container housing, wherein the at least one valve apparatus includes a detergent accommodating room to accommodate detergent at an inside therein, an inlet valve to allow the detergent in the detergent container to introduced to the detergent accommodating room, and an outlet valve to allow the detergent in the detergent accommodating room to be discharged to the detergent container housing.