Fluid circulation system for dishwasher appliances
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing dishwasher fluid circulation systems face inefficiencies due to filter blockages, which require active cleaning methods that divert water from spray assemblies, increasing energy and water usage.
Innovation Solution
A fluid circulation system with a diverter mechanism that selectively directs fluid to a cleaning manifold to clean the filter without diverting water from the spray assemblies, using a diverter disk that rotates to switch between outlets for spray arms and the cleaning manifold based on fluid pressure and filtration rate.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If active spraying is used to clean the filter, then filter cleaning effectiveness is improved, but water and energy consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The filter cleaning system uses the pump itself to provide the cleaning fluid pressure, rather than requiring a separate cleaning pump or external water source. The pump's normal operating pressure is redirected through the cleaning manifold to clean the filter screens, allowing the system to clean itself using its own operational resources without additional water or energy input.
Solution Approach 2:
The pump serves dual functions: it circulates fluid for the washing operation and simultaneously provides pressurized fluid for filter cleaning. The cleaning manifold integrates multiple functions including fluid distribution, pressure regulation, and filter surface engagement, allowing a single component system to perform what would traditionally require separate dedicated cleaning equipment.
2Productivity
If filter cleaning is performed during operation, then continuous filtration efficiency is maintained, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The cleaning manifold is integrated directly into the pump housing, merging the cleaning system with the existing pump structure. The manifold uses the pump's own pressure outlet to deliver cleaning fluid, eliminating the need for separate cleaning pumps, valves, or control systems. This integration maintains continuous filtration while adding minimal structural complexity to the overall system.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a diverter mechanism is added to control fluid flow, then selective cleaning capability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The diverter acts as an intermediary component that redirects fluid flow between the washing operation and filter cleaning without requiring complex control systems. It uses the existing pump pressure to automatically direct fluid through the cleaning manifold when needed, providing selective cleaning capability while maintaining simplicity through passive flow control rather than active mechanical or electronic diversion mechanisms.
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 improves filter cleaning efficiency while maintaining water and energy usage at optimal levels, ensuring continuous effective fluid circulation and filtration without increasing water or energy consumption.
Implementation Method 1
the manifold defining a plurality of apertures for flowing fluid towards the outer surface of the sidewall of the filter
Implementation Method 2
The fluid circulation system includes a sump and a pump. The filter is at least partially disposed within the sump chamber and surrounds an impeller of the pump
Data Source
AI summary
A fluid circulation system for dishwasher appliances includes a sump and a pump. The fluid circulation system further includes a filter at least partially disposed within a chamber of the sump and surrounding an impeller of the pump. The fluid circulation system includes a diverter. The fluid circulation system further includes a cleaning manifold disposed proximate an outer surface of a sidewall of the filter, the manifold defining a plurality of apertures for flowing fluid towards the outer surface of the sidewall of the filter.