Dishwasher Power Allocation Control for Energy-Saving Startup
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing dishwashers are inefficient in energy use due to operating at maximum power levels for worst-case scenarios, leading to high energy consumption and slow startup times, as they lack flexibility in power distribution across different load elements.
Innovation Solution
A method that assigns discrete power levels to electrical load elements, allowing for dynamic power allocation based on operating states, prioritizing maximum power to critical elements during startup and adjusting other elements' power usage to maintain a total power level below the worst-case sum, thereby optimizing energy use.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If heaters are switched on and off depending on instantaneous power demand to cover worst-case power demand, then reliability is improved, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by transitioning from static worst-case power allocation to dynamic power allocation. The control unit continuously monitors the actual power demand of individual heating elements and adjusts the total power distribution in real-time based on current operating conditions, rather than maintaining a fixed worst-case power level throughout operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the power parameter dynamically by adjusting the total power supplied to heating elements based on actual demand. The control unit modifies power distribution parameters according to the current state of each heating element, enabling the system to operate at optimal power levels rather than fixed worst-case levels.
2Reliability
If maximum power levels are assigned to all load elements for worst-case scenarios, then reliability is improved, but startup time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic power allocation that adapts during the startup phase. Rather than applying maximum power to all elements simultaneously, the control unit dynamically adjusts power distribution based on which heating elements actually need power at any given moment, reducing unnecessary startup time losses while maintaining reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies partial action by providing power only to the extent actually needed by each heating element during startup, rather than applying excessive maximum power to all elements. This reduces the time loss associated with heating up unnecessary components while ensuring sufficient power is available for elements that require it.
3Manufacturing precision
If heaters are switched on and off based on predetermined nominal temperatures, then manufacturing precision is improved, but adaptability decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs feedback mechanisms where temperature sensors continuously monitor the actual temperature of each heating element and water tank, and the control unit adjusts power distribution based on this feedback. This maintains precise temperature control while adapting to actual operating conditions rather than relying solely on predetermined nominal values.
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from static predetermined temperature control to dynamic adaptive control. The control unit continuously adjusts power distribution based on real-time temperature measurements and actual power demand, maintaining manufacturing precision while significantly improving adaptability to varying operating conditions.
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 reduces energy consumption by 20-30%, shortens startup times, and enhances user experience by optimizing power distribution, ensuring that the dishwasher is ready to operate more efficiently while minimizing energy demand during the startup phase.
Implementation Method 1
the respective cleaner solution in the tanks 13, 17, 21 is provided in the zones 2, 3, 4 and is raised to the operating temperature by means of heaters 14, 18, 22
Implementation Method 2
Fresh water is preheated in the heat exchanger 29 by means of hot exhaust air 31 from the dishwasher 110
Implementation Method 3
the item 9 being washed then has hot air 34 applied to it in the dry zone 7 via a fan 32 and a heater 33, and is thus dried
Data Source
AI summary
In a method and an apparatus for operation of a dishwasher, a total maximum electric output is assigned to a group of electric consumer elements of the dishwasher. In addition, at least two output levels are assigned to each electric consumer element of said group. An optimum combination of output levels is then selected in a requirement determination step, based on an operational state B of the dishwasher, whereby for each consumer element the selected output level is adapted to the output requirement of the consumer element in operational state B and the total output of all consumer elements does not exceed the maximum electric total output. The output levels of the individual consumer elements are optimally adapted in accordance with the requirements in operating phases of the dishwasher, thus allowing a response to be made to any fluctuations in the operational state.