Dishwasher Drain Check Valve Assembly for Clog-Resistant Flow
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional dishwashers face inefficiencies in fluid transfer and clogging due to the design of existing check valve assemblies in drain pumps, which can lead to reduced performance and susceptibility to clogging by foreign objects.
Innovation Solution
A check valve assembly with a seat assembly and flapper assembly that includes a non-round volute geometry and a stop feature to prevent over-insertion of the drain hose, ensuring proper alignment and operation efficiency, while allowing for modifications in pump performance and geometry.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a conventional check valve assembly is used in the drain pump, then the structure is simpler, but the fluid transfer efficiency is reduced and the pump is susceptible to clogging by foreign objects
Solution Approach 1:
The check valve assembly incorporates a non-round volute geometry with specific asymmetric contours that optimize fluid flow patterns and prevent foreign object accumulation. The asymmetric design creates specific flow dynamics that enhance fluid transfer efficiency while preventing clogging, resolving the contradiction between efficiency and simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The flapper assembly is designed to dynamically respond to flow conditions, automatically adjusting its position to optimize fluid transfer. The dynamic operation of the flapper valve allows the system to maintain high efficiency under varying flow conditions without requiring complex control mechanisms, thus improving productivity without proportionally increasing device complexity.
2Productivity
If the check valve assembly is designed with full opening capability, then pump performance is optimized, but the risk of foreign object clogging increases
Solution Approach 1:
The non-round volute geometry creates asymmetric flow patterns that guide foreign objects away from the valve opening path while maintaining full opening capability for optimal pump performance. The asymmetric contours of the volute and valve body work together to prevent clogging without restricting valve movement.
Solution Approach 2:
The design converts the potential harm of foreign objects into a benefit by using the volute geometry to naturally guide and redirect foreign objects along the asymmetric contours, preventing them from blocking the valve opening while maintaining full opening capability for optimal pump performance.
3Ease of operation
If the drain hose can be inserted freely into the pump discharge passageway, then installation is easier, but proper alignment and operation efficiency are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The check valve assembly is pre-positioned within the pump discharge passageway at a specific location that automatically guides the drain hose to the correct insertion depth and alignment. This preliminary positioning action ensures proper alignment before the hose is fully inserted, maintaining operation efficiency while simplifying installation.
Solution Approach 2:
The check valve assembly body acts as an intermediary structure between the pump discharge passageway and the drain hose, providing a guided insertion path that ensures proper alignment. The intermediary structure translates the simple action of hose insertion into precise alignment, maintaining both ease of operation and operation efficiency.
Data Source
AI summary
A check valve assembly for a drain pump configured to transfer fluid from a sump, through a volute having a pump discharge passageway extending from the volute, includes a seat assembly and a flapper assembly. The seat assembly has a body with a first distal end and a second distal end, and a fluid passage extending through the body. The body defines a valve seat having a sealing surface about the fluid passage. The flapper assembly is operably coupled to the seat assembly. The flapper assembly has a moveable portion configured to selectively move between a closed position where the moveable portion seals against the sealing surface and an opened position where the moveable portion raises to allow liquid through the fluid passage. The check valve assembly is configured to be located within the pump discharge passageway.