Ultra micron filter for a dishwasher
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Solution Overview
Problem
Contemporary dishwashers face inefficiencies in filtering wash liquid, leading to redeposition of soil particles on utensils and potential clogging of filters, which affects cleaning performance and water reuse.
Innovation Solution
A dishwasher system incorporating a microfilter and ultrafilter to remove particles larger than 150 microns and 30 microns respectively, with a recirculation system that ensures effective filtration and reuse of wash liquid without redepositing grit on utensils, utilizing a controller to manage the filtration process and optimize water usage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a microfilter is used to remove particles from wash liquid, then filtration efficiency is improved, but the filter clogs more easily and lifespan is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The filter system is divided into two separate filters: a microfilter for removing larger particles and an ultrafilter for removing finer particles. This segmentation allows each filter to operate at optimal capacity without the other bearing the full burden, thereby extending the operational lifespan of both filters while maintaining high filtration efficiency.
2Loss of substance
If wash liquid is recirculated to improve water efficiency, then water consumption is reduced, but soil particles are redeposited on utensils
Solution Approach 1:
The wash liquid undergoes preliminary filtration through both the microfilter and ultrafilter before being recirculated. This preliminary removal of soil particles prevents their redeposition on utensils during the recirculation process, enabling effective water reuse without compromising cleaning performance.
3Device complexity
If a single filter handles all particle sizes, then device complexity is reduced, but filtration precision is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The filtration function is segmented into two specialized filters: the microfilter handles larger particles and the ultrafilter handles finer particles. This segmentation achieves high precision particle removal across different size ranges without requiring an overly complex single-filter design.
Solution Approach 2:
Each filter is designed with specific local qualities optimized for its particle size range. The microfilter has properties suited for capturing larger particles, while the ultrafilter has properties optimized for finer particles, achieving high overall filtration precision through specialized local characteristics.
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
Enhances filtration efficiency, prevents grit redeposition, extends filter lifespan, and reduces water consumption by allowing for the reuse of ultrafiltered wash liquid in subsequent cycle phases.
Implementation Method 1
a microfilter fluidly coupled to at least one of the recirculation system and the spray system to remove particles from the wash liquid
Implementation Method 2
an ultrafilter fluidly coupled to the microfilter to remove particles from the wash liquid after it is filtered by the microfilter
Data Source
AI summary
A dishwasher having a tub at least partially defining a treating chamber, a liquid spray system, a liquid recirculation system fluidly coupling the treating chamber to the spray system to recirculate wash liquid from the treating chamber to the spray system, and filters capable of removing particles from the wash liquid. The filters include a microfilter fluidly coupled to at least one of the recirculation system and the spray system and an ultrafilter fluidly coupled to an outlet side of the microfilter.