Dual Washer Tub Door Sensing for Small-Load Safety Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Large-scale laundry treating apparatuses are inefficient for small laundry loads, leading to increased energy and water consumption, and are not suitable for washing sensitive items, while small-scale units may not effectively prevent tub door opening during operation, causing safety issues and inefficiencies.
Innovation Solution
A dual-mode laundry treating apparatus with a top loading type integrated above a front loading type, featuring a sensor module to detect the tub door state relative to the cabinet door, preventing operation if the tub door is open and ensuring safety by stopping processes like water supply and rotation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If a large-scale laundry treating apparatus is used, then washing capacity is improved, but energy consumption and water consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The laundry treating apparatus is divided into two separate washing machines: a first washing machine for front-loading and a second washing machine for top-loading. This segmentation allows each machine to be optimized for different load sizes and types, enabling efficient washing of small loads in the second machine without the excessive energy and water consumption of a single large-scale apparatus.
2Use of energy by moving object
If a small-scale laundry treating apparatus is used, then energy consumption is reduced, but safety control becomes insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The second washing machine is equipped with a sensor module that provides real-time feedback on the tub door state. The controller receives signals from the sensor module and automatically stops the washing process if the tub door is detected to be open, ensuring safety control even in the small-scale apparatus with reduced energy consumption.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a dual-mode laundry treating apparatus is provided, then versatility is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The dual-mode laundry treating apparatus is segmented into two independent washing machines with separate control systems. The first washing machine handles front-loading operations while the second washing machine handles top-loading operations with enhanced safety features. This segmentation provides versatility for different washing needs while keeping each unit's complexity manageable through independent control.
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 configuration allows for efficient washing of small loads with reduced energy consumption and improved safety by preventing tub door opening during operation, thus preventing overflow and potential hazards.
Implementation Method 1
a first sensor module configured to generate a signal based at least in part on sensing an open state of the tub door
Data Source
AI summary
A laundry treating apparatus includes a cabinet with first and second cabinet doors. A first washing apparatus processes laundry that is placed through the first cabinet door at the front. A second washing apparatus processes laundry that is placed through the second cabinet door at the top. The second washing apparatus includes: a tub that holds water and has an opening at a top that is accessible through the second opening of the cabinet; a tub cover that covers the top of the tub and defines an inlet through which the tub is accessible; a tub door on the tub cover that opens or closes the inlet of the tub cover separately from the second cabinet door opening or closing the second opening; a drum inside the tub configured to rotate about a vertical shaft; and a first sensor that generates a signal based on the tub door being open.