A dishwasher comprising UV light source
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Solution Overview
Problem
The placement of UV light sources in dishwashers is limited by the need for electrical connections, which can be hazardous in wet environments, reducing the efficiency of sterilization, especially in areas where hygiene is critical.
Innovation Solution
A dishwasher design that uses a hydro generator to energize the UV light source through fluid flow, eliminating the need for cable connections and allowing the UV light source to be positioned flexibly, with a control unit managing its activation and deactivation based on washing cycles and presence of detergent or dirt.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If UV light source is positioned in the washing tub with cable connections for electrical supply, then sterilization function is enabled, but safety hazard increases due to continuous water circulation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the electrical connection component (cable) from the washing tub environment by using a battery-powered UV light source. The UV light source is energized by a rechargeable battery that is charged externally through mechanical energy conversion, eliminating the need for cable connections within the water circulation area and thus removing the safety hazard while maintaining sterilization functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a battery as an intermediary energy storage device between the external charging system and the UV light source. This intermediary allows the UV light source to operate wirelessly within the washing tub by storing energy in the battery, which is charged externally through mechanical energy conversion, thereby enabling sterilization without direct electrical connections in the wet environment.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If UV light source is positioned away from spray arms to avoid cable hazards, then safety is improved, but sterilization efficiency decreases due to unequal distance from kitchenware
Solution Approach 1:
By removing the cable connection constraint through battery power, the UV light source can be freely positioned in the washing tub without being limited by cable routing requirements. This allows optimal positioning for both safety and sterilization efficiency, enabling the UV light to be placed at locations that provide equal or superior coverage to all kitchenware while maintaining complete electrical isolation from water.
3Reliability
If cable lines are used to energize UV light source, then electrical connection is established, but positioning flexibility is reduced due to hazardous environment
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the electrical connection requirement from the system by implementing a battery-powered UV light source. The battery is charged externally through mechanical energy conversion (such as hand cranking or other mechanical input devices), allowing the UV light source to be positioned anywhere in the washing tub without cable constraints, thereby maximizing positioning flexibility while ensuring reliable UV emission for sterilization.
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 design enhances the safety and efficiency of UV light source placement, enabling effective sterilization across various regions without the risks associated with electrical connections, while optimizing energy use and maintaining high cleaning performance.
Implementation Method 1
an energy source which is a hydro generator having a turbine generating mechanical energy by rotating by means of the fluid in the washing tub, and a generator converting the mechanical energy received from the turbine into electric energy
Implementation Method 2
a hydro generator having a turbine generating mechanical energy by rotating by means of the fluid in the washing tub
Implementation Method 3
a UV light source provided in the washing tub... which enable dissipating ultraviolet light inside the washing tub. Washed dishes are sterilized by means of said UV light sources
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to a dishwasher (1) comprising a body (2), a washing tub (3) provided on the body (2), in which the washing process is performed, a lower spray arm (4) and/or an upper spray arm (5) provided in the washing tub (3), enabling transmitting water to the kitchenware placed in the washing tub (3), and a UV (ultraviolet) light source (6) provided in the washing tub (3), terminating the microorganisms on the kitchenware placed in the washing tub by emitting ultraviolet radiation, having an active position in which it radiates and a passive position in which it does not radiate.