Dryer Additive Dispensing Assembly Using Siphon-Based Misting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing dryer appliances lack the ability to automatically supply specific dryer additives, such as fabric softeners or UV protectors, requiring users to manually add them and estimate the appropriate amount for each load.
Innovation Solution
A dryer appliance with an additive dispensing assembly that includes a supply conduit, an additive dispenser, and a siphon channel, which creates a siphon to draw additives into a fluid flow and vaporize them into a mist for distribution within the drum, ensuring consistent additive application across various loads.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a user manually supplies dryer additives to each load, then the user has control over the process, but the user must remember to supply additives and estimate appropriate amounts, increasing operational complexity and potential for error
Solution Approach 1:
The dryer appliance automatically supplies dryer additives to laundry loads without requiring user intervention. The system includes an additive dispenser that stores additives and a controller that automatically dispenses the appropriate amount based on load detection, making the system self-sufficient and eliminating the need for manual additive supply by the user.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical addition of additives with an automated dispensing system. The controller electronically determines when and how much additive to dispense, substituting the manual mechanical process with an automated control system that uses sensors and programmed logic to manage additive distribution.
2Adaptability or versatility
If existing dryer appliances automatically supply steam to dryer loads, then steam treatment is provided, but the appliances are generally unable to automatically supply specific dryer additives, limiting functionality
Solution Approach 1:
The dryer appliance is designed to perform multiple functions: it can automatically supply steam to dryer loads (existing capability) and also automatically supply specific dryer additives (new capability). The system uses a controller that can detect laundry loads and selectively dispense either steam or specific additives based on the selected cycle, providing universal functionality across different drying needs.
Solution Approach 2:
The additive dispenser stores dryer additives in advance within the appliance. When a laundry load is detected and the appropriate cycle is selected, the controller automatically dispenses the predetermined amount of additive before or during the drying cycle, eliminating the need for users to manually add additives at the time of loading.
3Manufacturing precision
If users estimate the amount of additive for each load, then flexibility is maintained, but consistency and precision of additive application cannot be achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The controller includes a load detection capability that senses the presence and characteristics of laundry loads. Based on this feedback, the controller automatically determines the appropriate amount of additive to dispense, ensuring precise and consistent dosage. The system adjusts additive distribution based on real-time detection of loading conditions, eliminating the need for user estimation.
Solution Approach 2:
The additive dispensing system is dynamic and adaptable. The controller can adjust the amount of additive dispensed based on the detected load size and type. The system transitions from static, fixed-dosage approaches to a dynamic system that automatically modifies additive distribution to match varying laundry load conditions, ensuring optimal performance across different scenarios.
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
Automatically delivers the appropriate volume of additives, eliminating the need for user intervention and ensuring consistent performance and scent across different laundry loads.
Implementation Method 1
an initial flow of fluid directed through the supply conduit creates a siphon that draws the dryer additive into the supply conduit to mix with the flow of fluid
Implementation Method 2
The misting assembly may be in operable communication with the supply conduit to vaporize the additive flow to the additive mist that is dispensed into the drum
Data Source
AI summary
A dryer appliance and additive dispensing assembly is generally provided herein. The additive dispensing assembly may be positioned within the cabinet and configured to provide an additive mist to the drum. The additive dispensing assembly may include a supply conduit, an additive dispenser, and a siphon channel. The supply conduit may extend between a fluid supply and the drum. The additive dispenser may store and dispense a dryer additive. The siphon channel may extend from the additive dispenser to the supply conduit downstream from the fluid supply. An initial flow of fluid directed through the supply conduit may create a siphon that draws the dryer additive into the supply conduit to mix with the flow of fluid and create an additive flow that is dispensed into the drum.