Dishwasher with controlled dry cycle

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Solution Overview

Problem

The existing drying systems in dishwashers face inefficiencies in determining the optimal circulating time for the condenser, leading to either incomplete drying or prolonged cycle times due to variations in ambient air temperature, which can result in user dissatisfaction and energy wastage.

Innovation Solution

A method that involves determining the temperature difference between the treating chamber air and external air, calculating the corresponding circulating time based on this difference, and adjusting the drying cycle accordingly to ensure complete drying of dishes.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Manufacturing precision

If a fixed predetermined circulating time is used for the condenser, then the drying system is simple to operate, but the dishes may not be completely dry or the cycle time is prolonged due to ambient temperature variations

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedrying completenessVSAvoidcontrol system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies dynamics by transitioning from a fixed predetermined circulating time to a dynamically adjusted circulating time based on ambient air temperature. The control unit calculates the circulating time using the temperature difference between ambient air and treating chamber air, allowing the system to adapt to varying environmental conditions and ensure complete drying without unnecessary delays.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements feedback by using temperature sensors to continuously monitor ambient air temperature and treating chamber air temperature. The control unit receives this temperature data, calculates the appropriate circulating time based on the temperature difference, and adjusts the condenser operation accordingly, creating a closed-loop control system that optimizes drying performance.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

2Manufacturing precision

If the circulating time is extended to ensure complete drying, then drying completeness is improved, but energy consumption increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedrying completenessVSAvoidenergy consumption
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The system dynamically adjusts the circulating time based on ambient temperature conditions. When ambient temperature is higher, the temperature difference is smaller, requiring longer circulating time. When ambient temperature is lower, the temperature difference is larger, allowing shorter circulating time. This dynamic adjustment ensures complete drying while minimizing energy consumption by avoiding unnecessary extended operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the operating parameter (circulating time) based on the temperature difference parameter. By calculating the circulating time as a function of the temperature difference between ambient and treating chamber air, the system optimizes energy usage by adjusting the circulation duration to match the actual thermal conditions, preventing both incomplete drying and excessive energy consumption.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Use of energy by moving object

If the circulating time is reduced to save energy, then energy consumption decreases, but drying completeness is compromised

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveenergy consumptionVSAvoiddrying completeness
Core Design Contradiction:
Use of energy by moving objectVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The feedback mechanism ensures that the circulating time is never reduced below the level required for complete drying. The control unit continuously monitors temperature conditions and calculates the minimum necessary circulating time based on the temperature difference, preventing energy waste while guaranteeing drying completeness through data-driven decision making.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The system adjusts the circulating time parameter in direct response to temperature difference measurements. By establishing a mathematical relationship between temperature difference and required circulating time, the system automatically determines the optimal duration that achieves complete drying without excessive energy consumption, adapting to each specific operating condition.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

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

This approach ensures precise control over the drying cycle, ensuring dishes are completely dry at the end of the cycle while optimizing energy usage by adjusting for actual ambient air temperatures, thereby enhancing user satisfaction and reducing energy waste.

Implementation Method 1

supplying air external to the treating chamber over a heat exchanger of the condensation system

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectHeat exchange: Heat Exchanger

Implementation Method 2

circulating the treating chamber air through the condenser

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectConvection: Convection

Implementation Method 3

a condenser which cools the moist air in the condenser. The moist air may be circulated from the treating chamber, through the condenser where the moisture is precipitated

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectCondensation: Condensation

Data Source

PatentUS9895044B2Dishwasher with controlled dry cycle
Publication Date: 2018.02.20 WHIRLPOOL CORP
  • US9895044B2 patent drawing
  • US9895044B2 patent drawing
  • US9895044B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A method of drying dishes in a dishwasher having a condensation system for extracting liquid from air within a treating chamber of the dishwasher to control the dry cycle of the dishes in the treating chamber.