Dishwasher Multi-Zone Drying Assembly for Moisture and Energy Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing dishwashing appliances face challenges in evenly circulating air and managing moisture during the drying process, with closed loop systems struggling to remove moisture and open loop systems being influenced by ambient humidity, leading to inefficient drying.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a dishwashing appliance with a dual fluid path system, where a first fluid path recirculates air within the wash chamber using a condenser and air absorption element to condense moisture, and a second fluid path introduces ambient air, utilizing fans and heating elements to control humidity and temperature, ensuring effective air circulation and drying.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If a closed loop air circulation system is used, then energy efficiency is improved, but moisture removal capability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The air circulation system is divided into two separate loops: a first closed loop for energy-efficient air recirculation and drying, and a second loop for moisture removal and ambient air intake. This segmentation allows each loop to specialize in its function without compromising the other.
Solution Approach 2:
A controller acts as an intermediary to manage the operation of both fluid paths, selectively activating the moisture removal path when humidity levels exceed thresholds while maintaining the primary recirculation path for energy efficiency.
2Reliability
If an open loop air circulation system is used, then moisture removal capability is improved, but energy efficiency deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts between closed loop and open loop operation based on real-time humidity sensing. The controller monitors moisture levels and selectively opens or closes the second fluid path, transitioning between energy-efficient recirculation and moisture-removal modes as needed.
3Productivity
If air circulation inlet size is increased, then air circulation effectiveness is improved, but moisture trapping in door or cabinet occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The air inlet system is segmented into multiple pathways: a primary inlet for effective air circulation and a secondary inlet specifically for moisture removal. This segmentation allows the system to achieve high circulation effectiveness while directing moisture-laden air through a dedicated removal path that prevents condensation in the door.
Solution Approach 2:
The controller serves as an intermediary that manages the opening and closing of different inlet paths based on moisture detection, ensuring that when the primary inlet is open for circulation, the moisture removal path is also activated to prevent harmful moisture accumulation.
4Reliability
If ambient air is introduced to the wash chamber, then humidity control is improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The second fluid path serves multiple functions: introducing ambient air for humidity control, removing excess moisture from the wash chamber, and preventing condensation in the door. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated components for each function.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses the existing door structure and air pathways to accomplish moisture removal and humidity control, rather than requiring entirely separate dedicated systems. The controller leverages the already-present fans and ductwork to perform multiple functions.
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 dual fluid path system enhances air circulation and moisture control, resulting in improved drying efficiency by recirculating and conditioning air within the wash chamber, while also introducing ambient air to maintain optimal humidity levels, addressing the inefficiencies of existing systems.
Implementation Method 1
a first fluid path recirculates air within the wash chamber using a condenser and air absorption element to condense moisture
Implementation Method 2
a first fluid path recirculates air within the wash chamber using a condenser and air absorption element to condense moisture
Implementation Method 3
utilizing fans and heating elements to control humidity and temperature
Data Source
AI summary
A dishwashing appliance, as provided herein, may include a cabinet, a tub, a pump, a spray assembly, a first fluid path, and a second fluid path. The first fluid path may extend from a first path inlet to a first path outlet to recirculate air within a wash chamber. The first path inlet may be defined in fluid communication between the wash chamber and the first path outlet. The second fluid path may extend from a second path inlet to a second path outlet to direct ambient air to the wash chamber. The second path inlet may be defined in fluid communication between an ambient environment surrounding the dishwashing appliance and the second path outlet. The second path outlet may be defined in fluid communication between the second path inlet and the wash chamber downstream from the second path inlet.