A detergent supply device for a laundry treating apparatus
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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 amounts, especially due to insufficient solubility of powder detergents.
Innovation Solution
A detergent storage container with a residual amount detecting unit, including electrodes and a support bracket, that automatically detects the detergent level and prevents false readings by using a detergent blocking rib to prevent detergent from contacting the electrodes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If a sensor is separately installed to automatically detect laundry detergent in the storage container, then automatic detection function is improved, but false sensing occurs due to detergent stuck to the storage container
Solution Approach 1:
The storage container is divided into a detergent storage space and a sensor installation space separated by a partition wall. This segmentation prevents detergent from the storage space from contacting the sensor, eliminating false readings while maintaining automatic detection capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor is extracted from the detergent storage environment and placed in a separate compartment. By removing the sensor from direct contact with detergent, the system achieves reliable detection without false positives from detergent residue.
2Loss of information
If the user frequently opens the detergent storage container to check the residual amount, then visual checking is improved, but user fatigue accumulates and operation becomes cumbersome
Solution Approach 1:
The mechanical action of opening the container to visually check detergent level is replaced by an automatic sensor-based detection system. The sensor continuously monitors detergent levels and provides information without requiring user intervention, eliminating fatigue from frequent opening.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs self-monitoring of detergent levels through the installed sensor, eliminating the need for user intervention. The container automatically detects and reports its own status, freeing the user from manual checking.
3Reliability
If powder type laundry detergent is used, then washing effect is improved, but insufficient solubility causes detergent to remain undissolved in the water tank or laundry
Solution Approach 1:
The system transitions from using powder detergent to liquid detergent, changing the physical state parameter. Liquid detergent provides better solubility and prevents undissolved residue while maintaining effective washing performance.
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 detection of detergent levels and preventing false readings, reducing user fatigue and improving the accuracy of detergent replenishment.
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 comprising a detergent storage member in which an upper side thereof is opened and having a storage space to store laundry detergent, a storage container cover installed to cover the opening of the detergent storage member, and a residual amount detecting unit installed at one side of a rear surface of the detergent storage member and configured to detect a residual amount of laundry detergent stored in the detergent storage member by a current sensed from the laundry detergent stored in the detergent storage member, and a method for manufacturing the same.