Dishwasher Door Partial Opening to Prevent Moisture Re-Condensation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Residual moisture in dishwashers often re-condenses on dishes after the drying cycle, leading to a perceived lower degree of dryness, as traditional drying methods either dry quickly but inefficiently or take longer while risking moisture re-condensation.
Innovation Solution
A method combining closed-door and open-door drying approaches by initially using a fan-assisted drying system with intermittent heating to evaporate moisture, followed by partially opening the door to allow ambient air exchange, ensuring efficient drying and preventing re-condensation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If traditional closed-door drying methods are used, then drying speed is improved, but moisture re-condensation occurs on dishes after drying
Solution Approach 1:
The door is moved from a static closed position to a dynamic partially open position during the drying cycle. The door opener mechanism automatically adjusts the door angle to optimize air circulation while maintaining heat retention, transforming the door from a fixed barrier to an adaptive control element that balances drying efficiency and moisture prevention
Solution Approach 2:
The drying process is segmented into distinct phases: an initial closed-door high-temperature drying phase for rapid moisture evaporation, followed by a transition to a partially open door phase for controlled air exchange. This temporal segmentation allows the system to achieve both fast drying and re-condensation prevention by applying different conditions at different stages
2Reliability
If the door is opened during drying, then moisture re-condensation is prevented, but drying speed decreases
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of opening the door fully or keeping it completely closed, the system applies partial action by positioning the door at a specific intermediate angle. This partial opening provides sufficient air exchange to prevent re-condensation while maintaining enough thermal confinement to preserve drying speed, achieving an optimal balance between the two competing requirements
3Use of energy by stationary object
If fan-assisted drying with intermittent heating is used, then energy efficiency is improved, but drying uniformity may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The fan operates continuously throughout the drying cycle to maintain constant air circulation, while heating is applied intermittently in synchronized pulses. This continuous mechanical action combined with periodic thermal input ensures uniform moisture removal across all dishes while maintaining energy efficiency, as the fan prevents stagnant zones and promotes even heat distribution during heating phases
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 enhances drying speed while maintaining a high degree of dryness, preventing moisture re-condensation and improving user satisfaction with dish dryness levels.
Implementation Method 1
forcing heated air through the treating chamber
Implementation Method 2
forcing heated air through the treating chamber
Implementation Method 3
moving the closure to a partially open position between the closed and opened positions while forcing heated air through the treating chamber
Data Source
AI summary
A dishwasher includes a tub at least partially defining a treating chamber, with an access opening. The dishwasher further includes a closure movable between closed and opened positions to selectively close and open the access opening. A method of drying dishes within the dishwasher includes moving the closure to a partially open position between the closed and opened positions.