Dishwasher Wash Tub Filling With Pressure-Based Water Level Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing dishwasher filling methods lack accuracy and efficiency, particularly in using less water for ecological reasons, due to limitations in pressure switch technology which increases complexity and cost.
Innovation Solution
A method utilizing an analogue pressure sensor to measure pressure during water filling, allowing for precise control of water levels and flow rates, enabling static, percentaged, and dynamic filling steps to optimize water usage and safety.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional pressure switches are used for detecting water levels, then the filling control can be implemented, but the measurement accuracy is insufficient and device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple water level detection functions into a single pressure sensor that can detect multiple pressure levels corresponding to different water levels. This eliminates the need for multiple separate pressure switches, reducing device complexity while maintaining the ability to detect various water levels accurately.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the detection parameter from discrete pressure switch levels to continuous pressure measurement. By using a pressure sensor that can measure pressure continuously and convert it to water level information, the system achieves higher measurement accuracy without increasing device complexity.
2Measurement precision
If multiple pressure switches are used to increase filling accuracy, then measurement precision improves, but device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the functions of multiple pressure switches into a single pressure sensor with multi-level detection capability. This consolidation simplifies the manufacturing process, reduces the number of components that need to be assembled, and lowers manufacturing complexity while maintaining high filling accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The pressure sensor is designed to perform multiple detection functions simultaneously, detecting various water levels and providing feedback for different filling stages. This multi-functional approach eliminates the need for multiple specialized components, making the dishwasher easier to manufacture.
3Quantity of substance
If conventional filling methods are used, then the wash tub can be filled, but water consumption is excessive and ecological requirements are not met
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback control system where the pressure sensor continuously monitors water level and provides feedback to the control unit. The control unit adjusts the filling process based on this feedback, stopping water intake precisely when the desired level is reached, thereby reducing water consumption while maintaining accurate water level control.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs dynamic filling control where the filling rate and termination point are adjusted in real-time based on pressure sensor readings. This dynamic approach allows the system to optimize water consumption for each filling cycle while maintaining precise water level control, meeting ecological requirements.
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 filling accuracy, reduces water consumption, and ensures quiet operation by precisely managing water levels, thereby improving water safety and reducing unnecessary water usage.
Implementation Method 1
detecting a pressure of the water supplied through the water inlet by a pressure sensor
Data Source
AI summary
A method for filling a wash tub (12) of a dishwasher (10) with water, wherein the wash tub (12) comprises a water-collecting sump pot (16) that is fixed to an opening in its bottom and said method forms part of a program cycle for the operation of the dishwasher, said method comprising the subsequent steps of: (i) opening a water inlet (13) of the dishwasher and executing a static filling of the wash tub wherein a circulation pump of the dishwasher is kept deactivated, (ii) detecting a predetermined lower water level (22) inside the sump pot (16), and (iii) starting to measure the time for the static filling when said lower water level (22) is detected.