Dishwasher Flow Path Switching Control Using Motor Current Feedback
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional dishwashers lack improved washing ability and efficient flow path management, which affects the effectiveness of washing water distribution and detection of flow path switching unit malfunctions.
Innovation Solution
The control method for a dishwasher incorporates multiple washing water flow paths on a single spray arm with a flow path switching unit that selectively opens these paths and judges its position and state, using current measurement to ensure proper operation and notify users of malfunctions through alarms.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If multiple washing water flow paths are provided on one spray arm, then washing efficiency is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The spray arm is divided into multiple independent flow paths (first flow path and second flow path) that can be selectively activated. Each flow path has its own switching mechanism controlled by the flow path switching unit, allowing independent control of water flow to different spray regions, thereby improving washing efficiency without requiring complete redesign of the spray arm structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The flow path switching unit dynamically switches between different flow paths based on washing requirements. The switching mechanism allows the system to adaptively select which flow path(s) are active during different phases of the washing cycle, enabling flexible control of water distribution patterns while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure.
2Reliability
If flow path switching unit position detection is implemented, then malfunction detection capability is improved, but measurement precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The control unit continuously monitors the current consumed by the motor driving the flow path switching unit and compares it against pre-stored reference current values that correspond to known positions of the switching unit. This feedback mechanism enables the system to detect malfunctions by identifying deviations from expected current patterns, providing reliable malfunction detection without requiring extremely high measurement precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses current consumption as a measurable parameter that changes with the position of the flow path switching unit. By establishing reference current values for different positions and monitoring deviations from these references, the system can infer switching unit position and detect malfunctions based on parameter variations rather than requiring direct position measurement with high precision.
3Reliability
If current measurement is used to judge flow path switching unit state, then malfunction detection is improved, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system utilizes the existing motor's current consumption characteristics to detect flow path switching unit state and malfunctions. Instead of adding separate measurement devices that would consume additional energy, the system leverages the electrical parameters already present in the motor operation, allowing the motor's own electrical signature to provide diagnostic information about the switching unit's condition.
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 washing efficiency by managing different flow rates and detects potential issues, improving overall washing performance and user notification.
Implementation Method 1
when power is supplied to the motor 187 and the impeller 186 rotates, washing water is supplied to the chamber 69 through hydraulic pressure
Implementation Method 2
judging the load of the impeller 186 supplied with washing water by measuring repulsive force of the washing water acting on the impeller 186
Implementation Method 3
a flow path switching unit 9 to selectively open a plurality of flow paths provided on one spray arm
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3(a)
AI summary
Disclosed is a control method of a dishwasher (100) including at least two flow paths (F1, F2, F3) having different flow rates and configured to spray washing water to objects to be washed, a chamber (69) having communication holes (656, 657, 658) communicating with the respective flow paths (F1, F2, F3), a water supply pump (18) configured to supply washing water to the chamber (69) through an impeller (186) rotated by a motor (187), and a flow path switching unit (9) provided within the chamber (69) and configured to sequentially open the communication holes (656, 657, 658) whenever washing water is supplied to the inside of the chamber (69).