Dishwasher Filter Backflush Reservoir for Reliable Flow
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional dishwasher systems face challenges in effectively and simply removing accumulated foreign matter from filters, particularly at the point of least resistance in the fluid distribution system, which can impede wash fluid flow.
Innovation Solution
A backflush system is implemented, utilizing a separate reservoir filled with fresh or recirculated water, connected to a backflush pump that directs fluid against the filters to remove particulates, with options for independent filling and level sensing to ensure efficient flushing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional filter flushing systems are used to remove accumulated foreign matter from filters, then filter flow is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the filter flushing function from the main wash fluid circulation system by implementing a separate backflush pump and dedicated backflush line. This allows the filter cleaning operation to be performed independently from the main wash cycle, simplifying the overall system architecture while maintaining effective filter maintenance capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a reservoir as an intermediary component that stores backflush fluid separately from the main sump. This intermediary storage allows the backflush pump to draw clean fluid specifically for filter cleaning without contaminating or depleting the main wash fluid supply, thereby simplifying the fluid management system.
2Reliability
If a separate reservoir for backflush fluid is implemented, then filter flushing effectiveness is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The reservoir serves multiple functions: it stores backflush fluid, acts as a buffer for the backflush pump, and can be refilled from the main water supply during the wash cycle. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional dedicated components, thereby limiting the increase in device complexity while maintaining flushing effectiveness.
Solution Approach 2:
The reservoir is pre-filled with backflush fluid before the filter cleaning operation begins. This preliminary action ensures that the backflush pump immediately has the fluid it needs to clean the filter, eliminating delays and ensuring effective flushing from the start of the operation.
3Loss of time
If continuous filter monitoring is implemented to detect particulate accumulation, then maintenance timing is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the controller monitors the backflush pump operation and reservoir fluid level. This feedback allows the system to automatically determine when filter cleaning is needed and when the reservoir needs refilling, optimizing maintenance timing without requiring complex continuous monitoring of the filter itself.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs self-service by automatically controlling the backflush operation and reservoir refilling based on simple sensor inputs. The controller manages the entire filter maintenance cycle without user intervention, reducing the need for complex monitoring systems while ensuring timely maintenance.
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 system ensures proper fluid flow by effectively removing accumulated matter from filters, enhancing the dishwasher's operational efficiency and simplicity while reducing complexity and costs.
Implementation Method 1
A backflush pump is configured to supply backflush fluid through the backflush line against the filter
Implementation Method 2
the pump draws backflush fluid from the reservoir and directs the fluid against the backside of the filter to flush particulates from the filter
Data Source
AI summary
A dishwasher has a wash chamber and sump disposed below the wash chamber, wherein wash fluid supplied to the wash chamber collects in the sump. A main pump is configured to drawn wash fluid from the sump and supply the wash fluid to the wash chamber, for example via spray arm assemblies. A filter is operably disposed to filter the wash fluid recirculated by the main pump. A backflush line has an outlet disposed downstream of the filter, and a backflush pump is configured to supply backflush fluid through the backflush line against the filter. A reservoir separate from the sump is provided and sized to hold a measured amount of fluid. The backflush pump draws the backflush fluid from the reservoir at a defined time.