Dishwasher with a screen system
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Solution Overview
Problem
Dishwashers often experience operational malfunctions due to clogged filter arrangements, leading to inefficiencies and incorrect detection of blockages, which can result in improper washing cycles and reduced reliability.
Innovation Solution
A control device in the dishwasher performs a detection sequence using an optical turbidity sensor to determine transmittance in the circulating chamber before and after pumping out the washing liquid, allowing for evaluation of potential blockages and ensuring accurate detection of filter clogs, thereby preventing residual washing liquid from impairing wash cycles.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a filter arrangement is used to filter washing liquid, then filtering capability is improved, but the risk of clogging increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by performing a detection sequence before the filter arrangement becomes fully clogged. The control device measures fill levels in both the circulation chamber and collection chamber to detect blockages in advance, allowing the system to take remedial measures before filtering capability is severely compromised.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback by continuously monitoring the fill levels in the circulation chamber and collection chamber using level sensors. This feedback mechanism allows the control device to detect changes in the filtering system's performance and identify clogging conditions, enabling timely intervention to maintain reliable operation.
2Reliability
If a detection method is implemented to detect filter blockages, then operational reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies self-service by using the existing level sensors in the dishwasher to perform the detection function. The control device utilizes the fill level information already being collected for other operational purposes to also detect filter blockages, eliminating the need for separate dedicated detection hardware and reducing overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements universality by making the level sensors serve multiple functions: they monitor fill levels for normal washing cycle control and simultaneously detect filter arrangement blockages. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional components and simplifies the detection system while maintaining high operational reliability.
3Measurement precision
If the circulation chamber is continuously monitored for blockages, then detection accuracy is improved, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies periodic action by implementing a detection sequence that is executed at specific intervals during the washing cycle rather than continuously. The control device performs blockage detection at predetermined moments, which maintains adequate detection accuracy while significantly reducing energy consumption compared to continuous monitoring.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses preliminary action by performing blockage detection at strategically chosen moments during the washing cycle, such as when the circulation pump is running or when liquid levels are stable. This timing approach ensures accurate detection while minimizing energy consumption by avoiding measurements during high-energy operations.
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 method enhances the operational reliability of the dishwasher by accurately detecting blockages and preventing incorrect detections, ensuring effective washing cycles and maintaining the quality of the wash process.
Implementation Method 1
a first measuring step for determining a transmittance in the circulating chamber filled with the washing liquid using an optical turbidity sensor
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a dishwasher, in particular a domestic dishwasher (1), comprising; a control device (2) for performing a cleaning cycle for washing a load; a screen system (25) for filtering a rinsing liquid (S), comprising a circulation chamber (48) and a collection chamber (47) which communicates with the circulation chamber (48) by means of a screen arrangement (40, 45) through which the rinsing liquid (S) flows; a connection (43) which is arranged in the circulation chamber (48) for a circulation pump (22) for circulating the liquid (S) and a connection (42) arranged on the collection chamber (47) for a lye pump (29) for evacuating the cleaning liquid (S). According to the invention, the cleaning cycle consists of at least one detection sequence (ES) carried out by the control device (2) and used to detect a blockage in the screen arrangement (40, 45), a first measuring step (MS1) for determining a transmission grade in the circulation chamber (48) filled with the rinsing liquid (S), by means of a optical turbidity sensor (26). When the first measuring step (MS1) is carried out, a first evacuation step (AP1) for evacuating the rinsing liquid (S) via the connection (42) of the collection chamber (47) is performed. When the first evacuation step (AP1) is carried out, a second measuring step (MS2) for determining the transmission grade in the circulation chamber (48) by means of the optical turbidity sensor (26) is performed, and a first evaluation step (AW1) for evaluating a modification of the transmission grade from the first measuring step (MS1) to the second measuring step (MS2) is performed.