Dishwasher with an image acquisition device and method for operating such a dishwasher
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Solution Overview
Problem
Dishwashers with image acquisition devices face issues with blurry camera shots due to the spray arm's movement, which obstructs clear imaging of the washing compartment, and blockages that lead to unsatisfactory washing results.
Innovation Solution
A method that synchronizes camera recordings with the rotation of the spray arm using a sensor signal to minimize the spray arm's impact on images and detects blockages, allowing for optimal imaging and immediate user notification through a mobile device.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the camera records images during spray arm operation, then the washing compartment can be monitored, but the images become blurry due to spray arm movement
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts the camera recording timing based on the spray arm's rotational position. The control device receives signals from the sensor about spray arm position and triggers image capture only when the spray arm is in a favorable position, making the monitoring system adaptive to the moving parts rather than static
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor continuously monitors the spray arm's rotational position in advance to determine the optimal moment for image capture. By predicting when the spray arm will be in a favorable position, the system prepares to capture images at the precise moment for maximum clarity
2Reliability
If the spray arm rotates continuously, then washing liquid is distributed optimally, but blockages go undetected until washing performance deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system establishes a feedback loop where the sensor continuously monitors spray arm rotation and provides real-time information to the control device. When rotation stops or abnormal patterns are detected, the system immediately captures images and alerts the user, creating a closed-loop monitoring system that responds to changes in washing compartment conditions
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor acts as an intermediary between the spray arm's mechanical operation and the camera's imaging function. It translates physical spray arm movement into electrical signals that trigger image capture, enabling indirect detection of blockages through monitoring rotation patterns
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a method for operating a dishwasher for cleaning items (11) in a wash chamber (3), wherein the dishwasher has an image acquisition device for capturing images of the wash chamber (3). The method comprises the following steps: - evaluating a signal (21) from a sensor (10) coupled to a spray arm (5) of the dishwasher, wherein the signal (21) reflects a rotation of the spray arm (5); - capturing an image of the wash chamber (3) by the image acquisition device depending on the evaluated signal (21). The invention further relates to a dishwasher with an image acquisition device and a sensor (10) coupled to a spray arm (5) of the dishwasher.