Dishwasher Vane Assembly for Selectable Zone Washing Control

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional dishwashing machines lack the ability to selectively wash different regions within the tub, limiting flexibility in washing courses and efficiency.

Innovation Solution

A dishwashing machine with a tub, a nozzle assembly for spraying water, a vane assembly to change the water's direction, and a user interface for selecting and controlling the washing zone, allowing users to choose specific zones and methods for washing, which includes a control unit to adjust the movement and spray distribution accordingly.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Extent of automation

If a rotary spray unit is used to spray washing water while rotating, then the washing process can be automated, but the ability to selectively wash different regions is lost

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveautomatic washing processVSAvoidselectable washing zone
Core Design Contradiction:
Extent of automationVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The washing machine divides the washing tub into multiple selectable zones (e.g., left, right, center, front, back regions). The spray system is segmented into multiple nozzles that can be independently controlled to target specific zones, allowing users to select only the regions that need washing.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The spray system transitions from a fixed rotary pattern to a dynamic, controllable system. Multiple spray nozzles can be independently activated or deactivated based on the selected washing zone, and the spray pressure, flow rate, and duration can be dynamically adjusted for each zone.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Reliability

If a rotary spray unit is used, then the washing machine can perform complete washing cycles, but different washing courses for each region cannot be selected

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecomplete washing cycleVSAvoidwashing course selection per region
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The washing cycle is segmented into region-specific sub-cycles. Each zone can have its own washing course (e.g., intensive washing, gentle washing, rinsing only) selected independently. The control unit manages multiple washing courses that can be applied to different zones simultaneously or sequentially.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Different washing parameters (pressure, temperature, duration, spray pattern) can be applied to different zones based on local needs. For example, the left zone may require high-pressure washing for greasy dishes while the right zone uses gentle rinsing for delicate items.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

3Reliability

If the entire tub is washed, then all tableware is cleaned, but washing time increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecomprehensive cleaning coverageVSAvoidwashing time
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The system allows partial washing by enabling users to select only the zones containing dirty tableware. If only the left zone is selected, only the nozzles targeting that zone are activated, significantly reducing washing time while still providing complete cleaning for the selected region.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #16Partial or excessive action

Solution Approach 2:

The washing process can be divided into periodic phases where different zones are washed sequentially or in parallel. The control unit manages the timing and duration of spray cycles for each zone, allowing optimized washing schedules that reduce overall time while maintaining cleaning effectiveness.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #19Periodic action

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 washing efficiency and convenience by allowing users to freely select washing zones, reducing washing time and improving the overall performance of the dishwashing machine.

Implementation Method 1

a nozzle assembly configured to spray washing water

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectFluid spray: Fluid Spray

Implementation Method 2

a vane assembly configured to change a traveling direction of the washing water sprayed from the nozzle assembly

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMechanical force: Mechanical Force

Data Source

PatentUS11103119B2Dishwashing machine and method of controlling the same
Publication Date: 2021.08.31 SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO LTD
  • US11103119B2 patent drawing
  • US11103119B2 patent drawing
  • US11103119B2 patent drawing

AI summary

According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a dishwashing machine includes a tub accommodating tableware, a nozzle assembly spraying washing water, a vane assembly changing a traveling direction of the washing water sprayed from the nozzle assembly to move linearly inside the tub, a user interface for receiving a divided washing zone selected by a user, and a control unit controlling movement of the vane assembly to wash the selected divided zone by the washing water including the changed traveling direction.