User interface for dishwashing cycle optimization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Dishwashing machines lack the ability to adapt their operational parameters based on user feedback, leading to inconsistent performance in washing quality, drying efficiency, and noise levels, which can result in unsatisfactory cleaning of certain types of ware and inefficient cycles.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus that allow for user input on dishwasher performance characteristics, using sensors to determine operating conditions, and an electronic controller to adjust operational parameters such as wash pump pressure, cycle duration, and rinse aid usage based on user satisfaction and preferences, incorporating these adjustments into subsequent cycles.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If dishwashing machines use fixed operational parameters for all cycles, then device complexity is reduced, but washing quality and user satisfaction become inconsistent
Solution Approach 1:
The system solicits user feedback on washing quality, drying quality, noise levels, and cycle duration after each dishwashing cycle. This feedback is stored and analyzed to identify unsatisfactory characteristics, which then trigger automatic adjustments to operational parameters in subsequent cycles, creating a closed-loop feedback system that continuously improves performance
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic adjustment of operational parameters (water temperature, spray pressure, cycle duration, rinse aid dosage) based on user feedback and sensor data. The electronic controller modifies these parameters in real-time and across different cycles, transforming the system from static to dynamic operation to optimize washing quality for varying conditions
2Reliability
If the machine adjusts operational parameters based on user feedback, then user satisfaction improves, but the ease of operation decreases due to additional user input requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs self-adjustment of operational parameters automatically based on stored user feedback and sensor measurements. After the initial user feedback collection, the electronic controller independently modifies wash pump pressure, water temperature, cycle duration, and rinse aid usage without requiring continuous user intervention, allowing the machine to serve itself
Solution Approach 2:
The system collects and stores user feedback at the conclusion of each cycle as preliminary data. This feedback is processed and used to pre-adjust operational parameters before subsequent cycles begin, so that improvements are already in place before the next washing operation, reducing the perceived burden on the user
3Manufacturing precision
If sensors and feedback mechanisms are added to optimize cycles, then washing quality improves, but device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The electronic controller serves multiple functions: it manages the dishwashing cycle operation, collects user feedback, stores operational data, analyzes satisfaction levels, and automatically adjusts operational parameters. By consolidating these functions into a single multi-functional controller, the system avoids the need for separate dedicated components for each function, thereby limiting the increase in device complexity
Data Source
AI summary
A method of operating a dishwashing machine including determining user satisfaction with a dishwashing cycle, adjusting at least one operational parameter of the dishwashing cycle based on the user satisfaction, and incorporating the adjusted operational parameter into a subsequent dishwashing cycle.