Detergent Flow Path Sensing for Washing Machine Blockage Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing washing machines lack a mechanism to detect and prevent detergent blockages in the supply passage, leading to incomplete washing cycles due to undetected detergent remaining in the supply pipes, which solidify over time and obstruct the flow.
Innovation Solution
A washing machine equipped with a flow path pipe sensor and a detergent supply system that includes a pump and check valve assemblies to detect additive presence and prevent blockages by ensuring additives are properly extracted and supplied to the tub, using a flow path pipe sensor to monitor the outlet flow path for additive presence and a water supply valve to prevent solidification.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a detergent supply passage is disposed vertically, then the problem that detergent remains in the detergent supply passage is reduced, but detergent still solidifies and blocks the passage over time
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a heating element that pre-heats the detergent supply passage before detergent flows through it, preventing the detergent from solidifying and blocking the passage. This preliminary heating action addresses the solidification problem before it occurs.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the temperature parameter of the detergent supply passage by introducing a heating element. This parameter change prevents detergent solidification by maintaining the passage temperature above the detergent's freezing point, thereby preventing blockages.
2Device complexity
If only a detergent sensor is installed to detect detergent amount, then the detection system is simple, but the system cannot detect blockages in the detergent supply passage
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the detection system multi-functional by equipping it with both a detergent sensor to detect detergent amount and a flow sensor to detect blockages. This universal detection system handles multiple functions: monitoring detergent levels and detecting supply passage blockages.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces feedback mechanisms where sensors detect blockages and send signals to the control unit, which then provides feedback by stopping the washing cycle or alerting the user. This feedback loop ensures reliable blockage detection and appropriate system response.
3Productivity
If washing is performed without detecting blockages, then the washing cycle completes quickly, but washing is performed without loading detergent
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary detection of blockages before the washing cycle begins. The control unit checks the flow sensor status and prevents the washing cycle from starting if a blockage is detected, ensuring that washing is not performed without detergent.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback control where the control unit continuously monitors the flow sensor during the washing cycle. If a blockage is detected, the system provides feedback by stopping the cycle and notifying the user, preventing incomplete washing operations.
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
The system effectively prevents washing cycles from proceeding without additives and prevents blockages in the detergent supply passage, ensuring complete washing cycles and maintaining the flow path's integrity by detecting additive presence and managing its flow effectively.
Implementation Method 1
a flow path pipe sensor which is installed in the outlet flow path pipe, and detects an existence of the additive in the outlet flow path pipe
Implementation Method 2
a pump which extracts the additive contained in the cartridge
Data Source
AI summary
A washing machine of the present disclosure includes: a tub in which water is stored; a drum which is rotatably provided in the tub, and accommodates laundry; and a detergent supply device which supplies a liquid additive to the tub, wherein the detergent supply device includes: a cartridge which contains the additive; a pump which extracts the additive contained in the cartridge; an outlet flow path pipe which is connected to the cartridge, and through which the extracted additive flows toward the tub; and a flow path pipe sensor which is installed in the outlet flow path pipe, and detects an existence of the additive in the outlet flow path pipe.