Dual-Capacity Laundry Apparatus with Rotational Bubble Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional large-sized laundry treatment apparatuses are inefficient for washing small loads, leading to increased energy consumption, water usage, and unsuitability for delicate items, while compact solutions face challenges in space utilization and bubble management.
Innovation Solution
A compact laundry treatment apparatus with a method to control bubble generation by adjusting rotational speeds and cycle operations, including a bubble reduction pattern that involves simultaneous water supply, drainage, and drum rotation, to prevent bubbles from forming and ensure thorough washing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If a large-sized laundry treatment apparatus is used to wash small loads, then washing capacity is sufficient, but energy consumption and water usage increase
Solution Approach 1:
The laundry treatment apparatus is divided into two separate washing machines: a first washing machine for large-capacity washing and a second washing machine for small-capacity washing. This segmentation allows each machine to be optimized for its specific size, enabling efficient washing of small loads without wasting energy and water that would occur if a large machine were used for small loads.
2Area of stationary object
If a small-sized laundry treatment apparatus is used for compact installation, then space utilization improves, but bubble generation increases during washing
Solution Approach 1:
The control method implements periodic actions to manage bubble generation: (1) rotating the drum at a first rotational speed to generate bubbles, (2) rotating at a second rotational speed to reduce bubbles, and (3) rotating at a third rotational speed to eliminate bubbles. This periodic variation in rotational speed effectively controls bubble formation and removal during the washing process.
Solution Approach 2:
The control method changes the operational parameters by adjusting the drum's rotational speed across three distinct phases: a first rotational speed for washing, a second rotational speed for bubble reduction, and a third rotational speed for bubble elimination. This parameter change approach allows the small washing machine to effectively manage bubble generation while maintaining compact dimensions.
3Ease of operation
If the top loading type laundry treatment apparatus is made lower for better accessibility, then user access improves, but washing capacity decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments washing functions into two machines: the first washing machine handles large-capacity washing needs, while the second washing machine provides small-capacity washing with improved accessibility. This segmentation resolves the contradiction by allowing the second machine to be compact and accessible while the first machine maintains large washing capacity.
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
The solution effectively reduces bubble formation, optimizes energy use, and enhances washing efficiency for small loads, improving space utilization and user satisfaction by ensuring thorough cleaning without excessive water or energy consumption.
Implementation Method 1
rotating the drum in one direction such that wash water in the tub moves upward along the inner circumferential surface of the tub and is introduced into the tub through the introduction port
Data Source
AI summary
A method of controlling a laundry treatment apparatus, the method including: determining whether bubbles have been generated in a tub of the laundry treatment apparatus in a state in which a second washing apparatus of the laundry treatment apparatus is operated based on a sequence of operations; and based on a determination that bubbles have been generated, reducing bubbles by (i) adding at least one first operation to the sequence of operations or (ii) replacing at least one second operation of the sequence of operations, is disclosed.