Dishwasher with dock detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional dishwashers lack flexibility in addressing diverse consumer washing needs due to limited adaptability of their washing features.
Innovation Solution
A dishwasher with a dock detection system that determines when a spray device is docked to a docking port, allowing the controller to optimize wash cycles based on the connected spray device, using electrical conductors and sensors to communicate the docking status and type.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a dock detection system is added to detect spray device docking, then the dishwasher can optimize wash cycles and improve cleaning efficiency, but the device complexity increases due to additional sensors and electrical conductors
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical detection mechanisms with electrical detection. The dock detector uses electrical conductors and conductive pads to detect the presence and type of spray devices through electrical continuity, eliminating the need for complex mechanical sensors while enabling optimized wash cycle control
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces electrical conductors and conductive pads as intermediary elements between the spray device connector and the dock detector. These intermediaries transmit electrical signals that indicate spray device presence and type, enabling the controller to optimize wash cycles without direct mechanical interaction
2Measurement precision
If multiple electrical conductors and conductive pads are installed in the manifold, then the dock detector can accurately identify spray device docking status, but the manufacturing complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs the electrical conductors and conductive pads to serve multiple functions: they detect spray device presence, identify spray device type, and provide electrical continuity for the detection circuit. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate detection components, simplifying manufacturing while maintaining high detection accuracy
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines the detection function with the existing manifold structure by integrating electrical conductors into the fluid distribution system. The conductive pads are positioned within the docking port structure, merging detection functionality with structural components to reduce overall manufacturing complexity
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
Enables the dishwasher to customize wash cycles according to the type of spray device connected, improving cleaning efficiency and flexibility by selectively directing fluid flow, pressure, and temperature.
Implementation Method 1
A dock detector is coupled to the docking port and is electrically coupled to a controller of the dishwasher through electrical conductors... The dock detector includes first and second conductive pads... configured to detect when the spray device connector is docked to the docking port
Data Source
AI summary
A method and a dishwasher utilize a dock detection system to determine when a connector of a spray device is docked to a docking port provided on a manifold of the dishwasher. A dock detector is coupled to the docking port and is electrically coupled to a controller of the dishwasher through electrical conductors that extend along the manifold, thereby enabling a dishwasher controller to detect when spray devices are coupled to the manifold, e.g., to optimize a wash cycle to use a particular spray device docked to the docking port.