Removable Dishwasher Bulk Dispenser for Low-Chemistry Alerts
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing dishwasher dispensing systems lack an efficient and automated method for detecting low levels of treating chemistry and alerting users, often requiring manual checks and frequent power source replacements.
Innovation Solution
A removable, non-integrated bulk dispensing assembly with a chemistry detector, illumination detector, and controller that emits a human-detectable signal when a predetermined amount of treating chemistry is low and the user is likely present, allowing for automated bulk dispensing and minimizing power usage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of time
If a bulk dispenser is used to contain enough treating chemistry for multiple cycles, then the frequency of manual refilling is reduced, but the system lacks automated detection and alerting capabilities requiring manual checks
Solution Approach 1:
The dispenser system performs self-monitoring through integrated chemistry level sensors that automatically detect when treating chemistry is low, eliminating the need for manual checks by users
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback through alert mechanisms (visual, auditory, or electronic notifications) that inform users when the treating chemistry level is low, enabling automated monitoring and response
2Loss of information
If continuous alerting is implemented to notify users of low treating chemistry levels, then user awareness is maximized, but power consumption increases requiring frequent power source replacements
Solution Approach 1:
The alert system operates periodically or on-demand rather than continuously, activating only when the chemistry level sensor detects low levels, thereby reducing overall power consumption while maintaining effective user notification
Solution Approach 2:
The system replaces continuous mechanical/electrical alerting with intelligent, condition-based activation using electronic sensors and microcontrollers that consume minimal power when in standby mode
3Use of energy by moving object
If manual detection methods are used to check treating chemistry levels, then power consumption is minimized, but user convenience and system automation are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The dispenser automatically monitors its own chemistry levels using integrated sensors, eliminating the need for users to manually check levels and improving convenience without requiring continuous high power consumption
4Extent of automation
If integrated dispensing systems are used within the dishwasher, then automation is improved, but the system complexity and difficulty of replacement increase
Solution Approach 1:
The dispensing system is designed as a separate, removable bulk dispenser unit that can be independently replaced, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining automation capabilities through modular architecture
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 efficiently alerts users to low treating chemistry levels and conserves power by only activating alerts when the user is likely to notice, reducing the need for frequent replacements and manual checks.
Implementation Method 1
a chemistry detector (24) capable of indicating a low level of treating chemistry
Implementation Method 2
an illumination detector (26) capable of detecting an amount of ambient illumination
Data Source
AI summary
A removable non-integrated treating chemistry dispensing cartridge assembly may emit a signal in response to a predetermined amount of treating chemistry being detected and in response to a predetermined amount of illumination being detected.