Dishwasher Rack Manifold With Multi-Feed Spray Arm Distribution
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing dishwasher systems face challenges in providing optimal spray flow and coverage to enhance cleaning operations, particularly with vertically adjustable upper racks and multiple spray arms, requiring complex fluid distribution systems and valving to manage fluid flow effectively.
Innovation Solution
A dishwasher system featuring a movable rack with multiple distinct spray arms, utilizing a multi-tube feed arrangement and a rack-supported manifold with a diverter valve mechanism to selectively distribute washing fluid to upper rack spray arms, including a rotatable spray arm and bifurcated spray arms, ensuring separate flow patterns and accommodating vertical rack adjustments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single fluid distribution system is used for multiple spray arms, then the system structure is simple, but the spray flow distribution and coverage are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The fluid distribution system is segmented into multiple independent conduits (first conduit, second conduit, third conduit) that can independently deliver washing fluid to different spray arms. This segmentation allows each conduit to be optimized for specific spray arms, improving spray flow distribution and coverage while maintaining manageable system complexity through modular design.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the upper rack is vertically adjustable, then the adaptability is improved, but the fluid connection complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The fluid distribution system incorporates flexible hoses and movable connections that can dynamically adapt to different vertical rack positions. The flexible conduit design allows the system to maintain fluid connections while accommodating the vertical adjustability of the upper rack, resolving the contradiction between adaptability and connection complexity.
3Quantity of substance
If separate fluid conduits are used for each spray arm, then the spray flow control is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The fluid distribution system uses a universal manifold structure with multiple outlets that can serve different spray arms through a standardized connection interface. This multi-functional design allows separate flow control to each spray arm while avoiding the complexity of completely separate conduit systems, as the manifold provides a centralized distribution point for multiple spray arms.
Data Source
AI summary
A dishwasher includes a shiftable rack provided with multiple, distinct washing fluid spray arms connected to a common, rack supported manifold. When the rack is shifted to a retracted position within a tub of the dishwasher, the manifold mates with a coupling of a fluid distribution system including a multi-tube feed arrangement configured to selectively distribute washing fluid from a pump assembly to the multiple spray arms.