Dishwasher Deflection Assembly for Corner Spray Coverage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Dishwasher appliances are ineffective in directing wash fluid into the corners of cube-shaped tubs due to the circular pattern of rotation of typical spray arms, leading to inefficient cleaning and potential motor-driven deflector assembly failures.
Innovation Solution
A passive deflection assembly with movable deflection units, including those operated by fluid force and mechanical energy storage devices or magnets, is used to redirect wash fluid from ejection heads towards the corners of the tub, ensuring effective fluid distribution without active motor components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If spray arms rotate in a circular pattern to direct wash fluid, then fluid can be distributed across most of the tub, but fluid cannot effectively reach the corners of cube-shaped tubs
Solution Approach 1:
The spray system is segmented into multiple independent spray assemblies (upper, lower, mid-level) with different spray patterns and directions. Each assembly targets specific zones including corners, allowing comprehensive coverage that a single circular spray arm cannot achieve
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces asymmetric spray patterns and deflection mechanisms that direct fluid at various angles specifically targeting corner regions. The deflection assemblies create non-circular, asymmetric flow paths to reach areas that symmetric circular rotation cannot access
2Reliability
If motor-driven deflector assemblies are used to direct wash fluid, then fluid can be actively redirected to corners, but motor components fail frequently requiring expensive replacement
Solution Approach 1:
The deflection assemblies are designed to be passively actuated by the fluid flow itself or by simple mechanical means without requiring external power sources. The fluid's own kinetic energy drives the deflection mechanism, eliminating motors and reducing complexity while maintaining reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex motor-driven mechanical systems with simpler passive mechanical deflection mechanisms. These mechanisms use fluid dynamics and basic mechanical linkages instead of powered actuators, reducing failure points and maintenance requirements
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 passive deflection assembly effectively directs wash fluid into the corners of the tub, enhancing cleaning efficiency while being cost-effective and durable, reducing the risk of motor component failures.
Implementation Method 1
the deflection assembly further including a magnet operable to move the deflection unit
Implementation Method 2
a deflection unit disposed within the wash chamber for deflecting fluid from the ejection head towards the rack assembly
Data Source
AI summary
Dishwasher appliances are provided. A dishwasher appliance includes a tub that defines a wash chamber for receipt of articles for washing, and a rack assembly arranged within the tub. The dishwasher appliance further includes a fluid ejection assembly, the fluid ejection assembly including an ejection head disposed within the wash chamber, the ejection head operable to eject fluid into the wash chamber. In one embodiment, the dishwasher appliance further includes a passive deflection assembly, the passive deflection assembly including a deflection unit disposed within the wash chamber for deflecting fluid from the ejection head towards the rack assembly. In another embodiment, the dishwasher appliance further includes a deflection assembly, the deflection assembly including a deflection unit disposed within the wash chamber for deflecting fluid from the ejection head towards the rack assembly, the deflection assembly further including a magnet operable to move the deflection unit.