Detergent feeding apparatus and washing machine having the same
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing washing machines require manual input of detergent, which can lead to inconsistent dosing, and existing detergent feeding apparatuses do not efficiently supply the suggested amount of detergent automatically.
Innovation Solution
A detergent feeding apparatus with a valve driving unit that alternates the operation of inlet and outlet valves, using a cam to vertically move inlet and outlet shafts, allowing for automatic accommodation and dispensing of detergent, with a dispenser to control wash water distribution for precise detergent supply.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If manual detergent input is used, then device complexity is reduced, but manufacturing precision of detergent dosage deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The detergent container is divided into multiple compartments (first container for liquid detergent, second container for powder detergent) with separate valve mechanisms. This segmentation allows precise control of different detergent types independently, improving dosage precision while keeping each individual valve mechanism relatively simple.
Solution Approach 2:
The system pre-fills detergent into containers before the washing cycle begins. The control unit calculates the required detergent amount in advance and activates the appropriate valve to dispense the pre-measured detergent into the tub, ensuring precise dosage without complex real-time adjustment mechanisms during operation.
2Ease of operation
If automatic detergent supply is implemented, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The valve apparatus serves multiple functions: it controls both liquid and powder detergent dispensing, integrates the driving mechanism for both inlet and outlet valves, and works with the control unit to automatically determine and execute detergent dosing based on wash program requirements. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate mechanisms for each detergent type.
Solution Approach 2:
The system automatically determines the required detergent amount based on wash program parameters and autonomously activates the appropriate valve to dispense the correct dosage. The control unit and valve mechanism work together to perform the entire detergent supply operation without user intervention, improving ease of operation.
3Manufacturing precision
If precise detergent dosage control is achieved, then manufacturing precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The valve mechanism incorporates a movable valve body that can dynamically adjust its position to control the opening degree of the detergent outlet. The valve driving unit rotates the valve body to different angles, dynamically regulating the flow rate and dosage of detergent dispensed, thereby achieving precise dosage control through mechanical movement rather than complex electronic control.
4Productivity
If detergent is supplied with wash water, then productivity is improved, but reliability of detergent supply deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The detergent is dispensed into the tub at the beginning of the washing cycle before the main washing process commences. The valve mechanism ensures complete and reliable detergent transfer into the water, and only after this preliminary detergent supply is confirmed does the washing cycle proceed, ensuring both productivity and reliability.
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 automatic and precise supply of the suggested detergent amount to the washing machine tub, preventing over- or under-dosing and enhancing wash efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
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
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AI summary
A detergent feeding apparatus (50) that automatically supplies a detergent to a washing machine (1). The washing machine including a cabinet (10), a tub (20) 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 (300) installed at an inside the cabinet, a detachable detergent container (200), and at least one valve apparatus (100, 101, 102) 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 (116) to accommodate detergent at an inside therein, an inlet valve (131) to allow the detergent in the detergent container to be introduced to the detergent accommodating room, and an outlet valve (141) to allow the detergent in the detergent accommodating room to be discharged to the detergent container housing.