Dishwasher Rack Detection System for Remote-Start Child Safety
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current child safety systems in dishwashers restrict the use of internet-connected features by requiring users to manually start the dishwasher and close the door within a time limit, preventing remote start functionality if the user forgets.
Innovation Solution
A rack detection system that uses a plug on the lower rack to dock with a docking hole in the water supply tube, with a controller sensing the load on the pump motor to determine if the rack is in its proper position, shutting down the dishwasher if the rack is removed and alerting the user through indicators like phone notifications or alarms.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a time-based requirement system is used for child safety, then child safety is improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates because users cannot use remote start functionality
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical/time-based safety system with an electronic sensor system that detects rack position and automatically controls dishwasher operation. The sensor system eliminates the need for users to manually press start buttons within time limits, enabling remote operation while maintaining safety through automatic rack position verification.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs self-verification of rack position through sensors and automatically determines whether to allow operation. This self-service capability eliminates the need for user intervention in the safety verification process, enabling remote start functionality while maintaining child safety through automated monitoring.
2Reliability
If manual start button pressing is required within a time limit, then child safety is improved, but the productivity deteriorates due to inability to use remote features
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the manual time-based safety system with an electronic sensor system that automatically verifies rack position and controls operation. This substitution enables remote productivity enhancement through smartphone control while maintaining safety through automated electronic verification of proper rack installation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary verification of rack position through sensors before allowing operation to proceed. This preliminary action ensures safety conditions are met before enabling remote start functionality, allowing users to set up the dishwasher remotely without compromising child safety.
3Ease of operation
If the lower rack is removed from its proper position, then accessibility for children is improved, but safety deteriorates as children can access the tub area
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback system where sensors continuously monitor rack position and provide real-time information to the controller. When the rack is properly positioned, the system receives feedback confirming safety conditions are met. When removed, the sensor feedback triggers automatic shutdown, preventing operation when children could access the tub area.
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor system acts as an intermediary between the rack position and the dishwasher operation. It monitors whether the rack is properly installed and mediates the control signal to the motor, allowing operation only when the rack is in the correct position and blocking operation when removed, thereby preventing child access to the tub area.
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
Enables full use of internet-connected features while ensuring child safety by automatically shutting down the dishwasher if the lower rack is not in its proper position, preventing accidental starts when children or pets might be at risk.
Implementation Method 1
a pump for pumping water to the water supply tube, the pump being driven by a pump motor
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2A~2B
Figure 3A~3B
AI summary
A rack detection system for a dishwasher (1, 100), including: a docking system (DS) including a plug (16) disposed on a rack (13, 14), such as a lower rack, and configured to dock with a docking hole (15) of a water supply tube (4) on condition that the lower rack is in an operational position within the dishwasher; and a controller configured to sense a load on the pump motor of a pump for pumping water to the water supply tube and determine if the load on the pump motor is within predetermined operating limits. On condition that the lower rack is removed from the operational position within the dishwasher and the plug is not docked with the water supply tube such that water flows out of the docking hole, the controller is configured to sense that the load on the pump motor is outside the predetermined operating limits and shuts down the dishwasher.