Dishwasher with docking arrangement for elevation-adjustable rack
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional dishwasher spray arm systems are inefficient as they waste resources by not focusing wash fluid precisely and often fail to thoroughly clean utensils in the corners of the tub, leading to lower cleaning performance and unnecessary noise.
Innovation Solution
A dishwasher with an elevation-adjustable rack and a docking arrangement that includes rotatable conduits and docking ports, allowing for precise fluid distribution and rotation of tubular spray elements to target specific areas within the wash tub, utilizing check and diverter valves to control fluid flow and reduce noise.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional spray arms are used to distribute wash fluid, then all areas are covered equally, but resources are wasted and cleaning precision is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the wash tub into multiple zones by using multiple independently controllable spray nozzles positioned at different locations (corners, center, sides) rather than a single rotating spray arm. Each nozzle can be independently activated to target specific areas, eliminating waste by only spraying where needed.
Solution Approach 2:
Different spray nozzles are positioned to provide localized washing coverage for specific areas of the wash tub, particularly targeting corner regions that traditional spray arms miss. The system adjusts spray intensity and direction locally rather than uniformly distributing water across the entire tub.
2Reliability
If spray arms follow a circular path, then simplicity is maintained, but corner coverage is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of a single rotating spray arm, the system uses multiple fixed spray nozzles positioned at strategic locations including corners. This segmentation allows each nozzle to specialize in covering its specific area, ensuring reliable corner coverage without requiring complex rotation mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a two-dimensional circular spray path to a three-dimensional spray distribution system with nozzles positioned at various heights and angles. This allows wash fluid to be directed into corners and hard-to-reach areas that a flat circular path cannot access.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If spray jets are directed to tub sides during rotation, then continuous coverage is achieved, but unnecessary noise is generated
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses periodic activation of individual spray nozzles in a sequenced manner rather than continuous operation of a rotating spray arm. Each nozzle operates in cycles, activating only when needed to cover its specific zone, which reduces noise from continuous spraying against tub sides while maintaining effective washing coverage through coordinated periodic operation.
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 solution enhances cleaning efficiency by focusing wash fluid where needed, improving corner coverage, and reducing noise by directing spray jets more effectively during the wash cycle.
Implementation Method 1
The docking port drive is configured to rotate both of the first and second rotatable docking ports... Each docking port includes a check valve that restricts fluid flow to the conduit when the connector is disengaged from the docking port
Implementation Method 2
a docking arrangement coupled to a rear wall of the wash tub and configured to engage with the connector of the conduit when the rack is in the washing position to supply fluid to the conduit
Data Source
AI summary
A dishwasher and method for operating the same utilize a docking arrangement for an elevation-adjustable rack. In some instances, a docking arrangement may include one or more rotatable docking ports to rotate a rotatable conduit supported on the rack, and in some instances, a docking arrangement may include a valve body disposed within a docking port and movable between open and closed positions in a direction generally parallel to an axis of insertion of a conduit into a docking port in response to rotation of a drive.