Dishwasher Steam Purge Using a Single Heating Element
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing dishwashers face challenges in maintaining high sanitation levels without the need for additional, costly dedicated steam generating components, and the effectiveness of steam usage varies with its timing and method of introduction in the washing cycle.
Innovation Solution
A steam purge and sanitation method that utilizes the existing heating element to generate steam during the wash cycle, where the tub is filled with water below the heating element, heated to produce steam, and then used to purge the washing assembly, followed by a disinfecting rinse and drying cycle, eliminating the need for extra components and maintaining effective steam integration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a dedicated steam generator is incorporated into the dishwasher, then steam can be effectively introduced to aid in the removal of food debris and enhance sanitation, but the manufacturing cost increases significantly due to additional components
Solution Approach 1:
The heating element is designed to perform multiple functions: it heats wash water during the wash cycle, generates steam during the steam purge cycle by heating purge water, and provides drying heat during the drying cycle. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for a dedicated steam generator, reducing component costs while maintaining sanitation effectiveness through steam generation.
2Reliability
If steam is introduced at different times or in different manners during the washing cycle, then sanitation effectiveness may vary, but this requires complex control mechanisms and timing adjustments
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs a preliminary wash cycle to clean dishware, followed by a steam purge cycle where the heating element generates steam to sanitize the wash chamber and washing assembly. The rinse cycle then removes any remaining debris. This sequenced approach ensures steam is introduced at the optimal time for sanitation while using a straightforward control structure that manages cycles in a predetermined sequence.
3Device complexity
If the heating element is used to generate steam during the wash cycle, then no additional steam generating components are needed, but the cycle timing and water level management must be precisely coordinated
Solution Approach 1:
The dishwasher operates through distinct periodic cycles: wash cycle, steam purge cycle, and drying cycle. During the steam purge cycle, the heating element periodically heats purge water to generate steam. The control system manages water level and heating element operation in a periodic manner, coordinating these parameters automatically through programmed cycle sequences, which simplifies the coordination complexity.
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 provides a cost-effective and efficient steam cleaning operation that enhances sanitation without increasing overall cycle time, using the existing heating element for washing, rinsing, and drying, ensuring effective steam generation at the right time in the dishwashing process.
Implementation Method 1
the heating element is activated and the purge water within the tub is heated to generate steam dispersed within the wash chamber
Implementation Method 2
the rinse water is circulated by the washing assembly, heated by the heating element and utilized to rinse dishware within the wash chamber before a final drain event. Preferably, the rinse water has a minimum temperature of approximately 156° F. for sanitizing purposes
Implementation Method 3
the heating element is again actuated to provide a drying heat to the dishware within the dishwasher
Data Source
AI summary
A steam purge method for a dishwasher includes a washing cycle, a steam purge cycle and a rinse cycle. During the steam purge cycle, a dishwasher tub is filled with fluid to a level below a heating element in a wash chamber, heated and at least partially converted to steam in the wash chamber. After the steam purge cycle, the dishwasher is drained and the rinse cycle commences. Optionally, a heated drying cycle may be performed upon termination of the rinse cycle. A single heating element arranged in the wash chamber is utilized for heating washing fluid during each of washing, purging and steam generation cycles, as well as for the heated drying cycle.