Dishwasher Drinkware Spray Container for Modular Targeted Cleaning

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional dishwashers lack flexibility in addressing the diverse washing needs of consumers due to limited customization options for washing various types of utensils and drinkware.

Innovation Solution

The introduction of a modular docking system that allows for the use of customizable spray devices, including a cup tree and drinkware basket with integrated nozzles, which can be docked at multiple locations within the dishwasher to direct targeted sprays of fluid onto specific items, enhancing cleaning efficiency.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If conventional dishwashers use fixed washing configurations, then the structure is simple, but the adaptability to different washing needs is poor

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadaptability to different washing needsVSAvoidstructure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The dishwasher is divided into modular components including removable spray containers, adjustable spray arms, and detachable racks that can be configured differently based on washing needs. This segmentation allows users to customize the washing configuration without complicating the overall structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The spray containers and spray arms are designed to serve multiple functions - they can be adjusted for different spray patterns, positioned at various locations, and configured for different types of utensils. This multi-functionality increases adaptability while maintaining structural simplicity through standardized components.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Manufacturing precision

If conventional dishwashers use standardized spray patterns, then the device complexity is low, but the cleaning precision for specific items is insufficient

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecleaning precision for specific itemsVSAvoidspray system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The spray system incorporates adjustable spray arms with variable nozzle orientations and removable spray containers that can be positioned at specific locations. This allows the spray pattern to be locally optimized for different types of items (glasses, plates, utensils) rather than using a uniform spray pattern throughout, thereby improving cleaning precision without requiring a completely complex system.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

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 solution provides improved cleaning flexibility and efficiency by allowing for tailored wash cycles based on the type and orientation of utensils and drinkware, ensuring thorough cleaning and protection of delicate items.

Implementation Method 1

each branch including a plurality of nozzles configured to direct a spray of fluid onto an interior surface of a supported drinkware article

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectFluid spray: Fluid Spray

Data Source

PatentUS10342409B2Dishwasher with drinkware spray container
Publication Date: 2019.07.09 MIDEA GROUP CO LTD
  • US10342409B2 patent drawing
  • US10342409B2 patent drawing
  • US10342409B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A dishwasher includes a drinkware spray container capable of directing a spray of fluid against one or more drinkware articles retained by the spray container. The drinkware spray container may be configured as a cup tree including a vertical member or trunk and a plurality of branches that extend from the trunk and support a drinkware article, with nozzles disposed on the branches to direct a spray of fluid into the supported drinkware articles. The drinkware spray container may also be configured as a drinkware basket including a container body defining one or more compartments along with one or more spray members capable of directing a spray of fluid onto interior surfaces of drinkware article retained within the container body.