Dishwasher Detergent Cartridge Dispenser With Gravity-Actuated Release
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing dispensing systems for automatic dishwashing machines are complex and costly to manufacture, and there is a need for a simpler, more efficient method to automatically dispense washing and cleaning agents, especially in low-temperature cycles with reduced water consumption.
Innovation Solution
A dispensing system comprising a cartridge with multiple chambers and a dispenser that uses gravity-actuated release mechanisms, allowing for easy assembly and integration, and is designed to be mobile or fixed to the machine, with features like bistable solenoids and sensors for precise control and energy efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If complex integrated dispensing chambers are used to achieve automatic dispensing, then dispensing automation is improved, but device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The dispensing system is divided into separate functional modules: a cartridge containing multiple chambers for different cleaning agents, and a dispenser unit with actuation mechanisms. This segmentation allows each component to be manufactured independently using simpler processes, then assembled together, reducing overall manufacturing complexity while maintaining automatic dispensing capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The cartridge serves as an intermediary component that bridges the cleaning agents and the dispenser mechanism. It contains pre-filled chambers with different cleaning agents and interfaces with the dispenser unit, allowing automatic dispensing without requiring the dispenser itself to be complex or integrated with storage chambers.
2Reliability
If multiple cleaning agents are integrated into the machine to improve cleaning performance, then cleaning effectiveness is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The cartridge is designed as a universal component that can contain multiple different cleaning agents in separate chambers, each tailored for specific cleaning tasks (pre-wash, main wash, rinse). This multi-functional cartridge can be used across different dispenser units, allowing versatile cleaning performance without increasing the complexity of the base dispenser mechanism.
3Ease of manufacture
If traditional manual dispensing is used to reduce manufacturing cost, then manufacturing simplicity is improved, but labor requirements and operational complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables self-service operation where the dispenser automatically actuates to release cleaning agents based on detected washing cycle parameters, eliminating the need for manual intervention. The cartridge automatically interfaces with the dispenser, and the system self-regulates dispensing timing and quantity, simplifying both manufacturing and operation.
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 enables simple, cost-effective automatic dispensing of cleaning agents, ensuring efficient operation at elevated temperatures and varying pH levels, with reduced manufacturing complexity and improved cleaning performance in low-temperature cycles.
Implementation Method 1
a bistable solenoid (46) arranged on the component carrier (23)
Implementation Method 2
the cartridge (1) and dispenser (2) are coupled together in such a manner that the interior of the cartridge chamber (3a, 3b) is connected in communicating manner to the interior of the dispensing chamber (20)
Data Source
AI summary
A dispensing system for the interior of a dishwashing machine includes a component carrier on which components are detachably or nondetachably arranged, including at least a dispensing chamber, an actuator, and a closing element as well as an energy source and/or a control unit and/or a sensor unit. The closing element is coupled with the actuator such that movement of the actuator displaces the closing element into a closure or a release position. The at least one dispensing chamber is connected in communicating manner with at least one cartridge chamber and includes an inlet for inflow of washing or cleaning agent from a cartridge chamber and an outlet for outflow of washing or cleaning agent from the dispensing chamber into its surrounding environment. The outlet of the dispensing chamber is closable or openable by the closing element.