Detergent Dispensing Tank Communication for Precise Appliance Dosing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing dispensing systems for household appliances lack effective coordination between the dispensing apparatus and the appliance, leading to inefficiencies in substance dispensing and adaptation to changing cleaning agent chemistry.
Innovation Solution
A dispensing apparatus with a tank receptacle and control means, featuring multiple chambers for different cleaning agents, and data transmission connections between the dispensing unit, tank, and household appliance, enabling precise control and compatibility through coding and sensor integration for optimized dispensing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If data transmission connections are integrated between dispensing unit, tank, and household appliance, then coordination and control precision are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple data transmission connections into a unified communication system linking the dispensing unit, tank, and household appliance. This integration allows centralized control and coordination while sharing communication infrastructure, thereby improving control precision without proportionally increasing overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The data transmission connections serve multiple functions including substance identification, dosage control, coordination between components, and adaptation to cleaning programs. This multi-functionality allows a single communication infrastructure to handle various control tasks, improving precision across multiple parameters without requiring separate systems for each function.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple chambers for different cleaning agents are implemented, then adaptability to different cleaning programs is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The tank is divided into multiple chambers, each dedicated to storing different cleaning agents. This segmentation allows the system to handle various cleaning programs by selectively dispensing from different chambers, providing adaptability while keeping the structural organization simple and manageable.
Solution Approach 2:
Each chamber is designed with specific characteristics suited for particular cleaning agents, and the dispensing unit can selectively access different chambers based on the required cleaning program. This local specialization enables high adaptability to different cleaning scenarios while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure through modular design.
3Manufacturing precision
If coding units and sensors are integrated for precise control, then manufacturing precision is improved, but ease of manufacture deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical sensing and control systems with coding units and electronic sensors that can be integrated into the tank and dispensing unit. This substitution enables precise identification and control of cleaning agents through electronic means, improving dispensing precision while allowing for standardized manufacturing processes for electronic components.
Data Source
AI summary
A dispensing apparatus for dispensing substances, such as cleaning, washing, or dishwashing agents, in household appliances such as washing machines, dishwashers, or the like, having a dispensing unit having control means to control dispensing of the substances, and a tank receptacle, a tank for stocking the substances, the tank being embodied as a replaceable unit connectable to the tank receptacle, at least one connection for data transmission between the dispensing unit and the tank, at least one connection for data transmission between the household appliance and the tank and/or the dispensing unit.