Dual-Drum Laundry Control for Small Loads and Delicates

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional laundry treating devices, particularly large-capacity washing machines, are inefficient for washing small or mixed loads due to energy and water consumption issues, and are unsuitable for delicate items, leading to increased washing time and potential dirt fixation on clothes.

Innovation Solution

A dual laundry treating device system with two independently operating machines, one of top loading type and one of front loading type, allowing simultaneous or sequential operation with controlled water supply based on load and type of laundry, optimizing energy use and washing efficiency.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Quantity of substance

If a large-capacity washing machine is used to wash small amounts of laundry, then the washing capacity is sufficient, but the energy consumption and water consumption increase significantly

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelaundry capacityVSAvoidenergy consumption
Core Design Contradiction:
Quantity of substanceVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The invention divides the washing machine into two separate drums: a first drum for washing small amounts of laundry and a second drum for washing large amounts of laundry. This segmentation allows the system to match the washing capacity to the actual load size, avoiding energy and water waste associated with using a large drum for small loads.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Quantity of substance

If a large-capacity washing machine is used for delicate clothes, then the washing capacity is sufficient, but the washing course is not suitable for delicate items

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelaundry capacityVSAvoidwashing course adaptability
Core Design Contradiction:
Quantity of substanceVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The invention segments the washing functions into two separate drums with different capabilities. The first drum is designed for delicate clothes with appropriate washing courses, while the second drum handles general laundry. This allows delicate items to be washed in a drum specifically suited for them, preventing damage while maintaining overall washing capacity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

3Quantity of substance

If laundry is collected for several days before washing, then the washing load is sufficient to justify using a large machine, but dirt becomes fixed to the clothes and cleanliness is compromised

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelaundry accumulationVSAvoiddirt fixation
Core Design Contradiction:
Quantity of substanceVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The invention enables preliminary washing of small amounts of laundry immediately when needed, without requiring accumulation. The first drum is specifically designed to handle small loads efficiently, allowing users to wash delicate or lightly soiled items promptly before dirt becomes fixed, thus maintaining cleanliness without waiting for a full load.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

4Use of energy by moving object

If two small-size washing machines are provided in a home, then small amounts of laundry can be washed efficiently, but space utility and aesthetics are compromised

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveenergy efficiencyVSAvoidspace occupation
Core Design Contradiction:
Use of energy by moving objectVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The invention merges two washing functions into a single integrated washing machine with two drums. This combination provides the energy efficiency of small-washing capability while maintaining the space efficiency of a single appliance footprint, avoiding the need for two separate machines and the associated space and aesthetic compromises.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Data Source

PatentUS8856996B2Laundry treating device and method of controlling the same
Publication Date: 2014.10.14 LG ELECTRONICS INC
  • US8856996B2 patent drawing
  • US8856996B2 patent drawing
  • US8856996B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A laundry treating device includes two separate laundry washing mechanisms. Methods of controlling such a laundry treating device include steps for supplying water to a first tub provided in the first laundry treating device and to a second tub provided in the second laundry treating device. The water can be supplied to the two tubs simultaneously or separately. Also, the water supply steps can be alternated. Further individual hot and cold water supply steps can include simultaneously or sequentially supplying the hot and cold water.