Dishwasher Filter Steam Self-Cleaning to Reduce Manual Maintenance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional dishwashers require frequent manual cleaning of filters due to foreign matter buildup, leading to reduced performance and potential contamination during washing cycles.
Innovation Solution
A control method for dishwashers that includes a pre-filter cleaning cycle using steam generated in the sump to self-clean the filter assembly before and after washing cycles, and the optional use of organic acids to prevent scale formation and maintain tub cleanliness.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual cleaning of the filter is required periodically, then the filter performance can be maintained, but user convenience deteriorates and operation complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The filter assembly performs self-cleaning through steam generation. The control unit activates the heater module to generate steam that automatically cleans the filter assembly during or after washing cycles, eliminating the need for manual user intervention and maintaining filter performance automatically
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary cleaning action by generating steam to clean the filter assembly before the next washing cycle begins. This preventive cleaning maintains filter performance proactively rather than requiring reactive manual intervention
2Ease of operation
If the filter is not cleaned periodically, then user convenience is maintained, but foreign matter accumulates on the filter leading to reduced washing performance
Solution Approach 1:
The filter assembly automatically cleans itself through steam without requiring user action, maintaining washing performance while requiring no user intervention. The control unit manages the steam generation process automatically based on washing cycle detection
Solution Approach 2:
The steam cleaning function operates continuously or periodically alongside washing cycles, ensuring the filter remains clean without interrupting the washing process. This continuous maintenance preserves washing performance throughout operation
3Extent of automation
If steam is generated in the sump to clean the filter assembly, then filter cleaning automation is achieved, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The heater module serves multiple functions: heating water during washing cycles and generating steam for filter cleaning. This multi-functionality allows automation of filter cleaning without requiring a separate dedicated heating system, optimizing energy utilization
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the temperature parameter of water in the sump to generate steam for cleaning. By utilizing the same water and heater infrastructure with parameter adjustment rather than additional systems, energy consumption is minimized while achieving automation
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 method ensures consistent washing force by removing foreign matter from filters, preventing contamination, and reducing scale formation within the dishwasher, thereby enhancing operational efficiency and user convenience.
Implementation Method 1
driving a heater module to generate steam in the sump
Implementation Method 2
driving a heater module to generate steam in the sump and supplying the generated steam to the filter assembly to clean the filter assembly
Implementation Method 3
supplying the generated steam to the filter assembly to clean the filter assembly
Data Source
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AI summary
Disclosed is a control method of a dishwasher including supplying steam generated in a sump (40) to a filter assembly (70) to self-clean the filter assembly at the time of operating the dishwasher (a pre-filter cleaning cycle), wherein the pre-filter cleaning cycle includes driving a water supply module (50) to supply wash water to the sump before operating the dishwasher (a pre-operation water supply step), driving a heater module (90) to generate steam in the sump and supplying the generated steam to the filter assembly (70) to clean the filter assembly (a pre-cleaning steam generation and supply step) after the pre-operation water supply step, and driving a drainage module (60) to drain the wash water (a pre-cleaning drainage step) after the pre-cleaning steam generation and supply step. In the control method of the dishwasher, steam is supplied to the filter assembly (70) before or after washing dishes (a washing cycle) in order to self-clean the filter assembly.