Detergent Sensing and Dosing for Recycled Washer Grey Water
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Solution Overview
Problem
The challenge is to effectively measure and adjust the detergent levels in recycled grey water used in washing machines to prevent excessive detergent buildup, which can cause issues like graying of clothes, skin allergies, and damage to the machine, while also conserving water resources.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus that includes a detergent sensor to measure the detergent concentration in grey water, a processing device to determine the required detergent amount based on the wash load size and detergent levels, and a system to supplement the detergent as needed, using a combination of grey and fresh water for optimal washing cycles.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of substance
If grey water is recycled for use in another wash cycle, then water conservation is improved, but detergent buildup on clothes occurs due to residual detergent in the recycled water
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses a detergent sensor to continuously monitor detergent concentration in the wash water and provides feedback to the controller. The controller adjusts detergent dispensing based on this feedback, reducing detergent addition when concentration is already high (as in recycled grey water) and increasing it when concentration is low, thereby preventing detergent buildup while enabling water recycling
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically changes the detergent concentration parameter by adjusting the amount of detergent added to the wash cycle based on the measured detergent level in the water. When grey water is recycled, the system detects higher initial detergent concentration and相应ly reduces supplemental detergent addition to maintain optimal cleaning effectiveness without excessive buildup
2Measurement precision
If a detergent sensor is added to measure detergent concentration, then detergent level control is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system replaces complex mechanical detergent measurement methods with an optical detergent sensor that uses light absorption or fluorescence principles to detect detergent concentration. This substitution provides precise measurement capability while maintaining relatively simple device architecture and enabling automated control
3Reliability
If too much detergent is added during a wash cycle, then cleaning effectiveness is improved, but excess suds are produced which can damage the washing machine and reduce spin speed
Solution Approach 1:
The detergent sensor provides real-time feedback on detergent concentration in the wash water. The controller uses this information to precisely control detergent dispensing, ensuring optimal concentration for effective cleaning while preventing excessive detergent addition that would lead to excessive suds production and potential machine damage
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
This solution ensures the right detergent levels are maintained, preventing excessive detergent buildup, while allowing for efficient water recycling and conservation, thereby improving washing machine performance and reducing environmental impact.
Implementation Method 1
measuring the amount of detergent present in the water
Data Source
AI summary
A method and apparatus for determining the amount of detergent in water used in a washing machine and to supplementing such water as needed for a wash load is provided. The amount of detergent present in grey water that is reused for washing, as well as the amount released from clothes or other articles to be washed, can also be determined.