Dual-Tub Laundry Control for Small-Load Energy Savings

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional large-capacity laundry machines are inefficient for washing small loads, leading to increased energy consumption, longer washing times, and unsuitability for delicate items, while small machines occupy unnecessary space when used in pairs.

Innovation Solution

A laundry treating apparatus with at least two independently operable washing tubs, allowing concurrent or selective water supply to each tub, enabling efficient operation and control of multiple washing cycles with reduced energy use.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a large-capacity washing machine is used to wash small amounts of laundry, then the washing machine can handle various load sizes, but the energy consumption increases and washing time extends

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvewashing capacity adaptabilityVSAvoidenergy consumption

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The washing machine is divided into two separate washing tubs (first washing tub and second washing tub) with different capacities. The first washing tub is designed for large-capacity washing while the second washing tub is designed for small-capacity washing. This segmentation allows the system to select the appropriate tub size for each washing task, avoiding energy waste from using a large tub for small loads.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

2Adaptability or versatility

If a large-capacity washing machine is used for delicate clothes, then the machine can wash all types of laundry, but the washing course is unsuitable for delicate items

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvelaundry type versatilityVSAvoidwashing course suitability

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

3Productivity

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

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesmall load washing efficiencyVSAvoidspace occupation

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines a first washing tub and a second washing tub into a single integrated washing machine body. The first washing tub is configured for large-capacity washing and the second washing tub is configured for small-capacity washing. By merging these two functional units into one machine, the system provides the productivity benefits of having separate machines while minimizing the space occupation and aesthetic impact of having multiple appliances.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

4Use of energy by moving object

If laundry is collected for several days before washing, then energy consumption is reduced by washing in bulk, but cleanliness deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveenergy consumptionVSAvoiddirt fixation on clothes

Core Design Contradiction:

Use of energy by moving objectVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Data Source

PatentEP2065503B1Laundry treating apparatus and method of controlling the same

Publication Date: 2018.05.30 LG ELECTRONICS INC

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AI summary

Present invention discloses a method of controlling a laundry treating device comprises a step of inputting information on operation in order to operate a first laundry treating device and a second laundry treating device adjacent to the first laundry treating device and a step of supplying water to a first tub provided at the first laundry treating device and to a second tub provided at the second laundry treating device, concurrently or selectively. (Fig. 1)