Dual Washing Unit Synchronization for Simultaneous Start and Stop
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing laundry treatment apparatuses with multiple washing units lack the ability to start and stop washing simultaneously without intercommunication, limiting their efficiency and user convenience.
Innovation Solution
A laundry treatment apparatus comprising multiple independent washing units, a control system that allows simultaneous operation through a dual washing command, and control signals to synchronize the washing cycles of multiple units, enabling them to start and finish washing at the same time without mutual communication during the process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If multiple washing units operate independently without intercommunication, then each unit can function autonomously, but they cannot start and stop washing simultaneously
Solution Approach 1:
The control system is segmented into multiple independent control units, each managing a washing unit autonomously. Each control unit has its own processor and memory, allowing independent operation while maintaining the ability to synchronize through shared control signals for dual washing mode
Solution Approach 2:
The control units are designed with multi-functionality to handle both independent single washing operations and coordinated dual washing operations. The control system can switch between different operational modes (single wash, dual wash, simultaneous start-stop) based on user input, making it universally applicable to various washing scenarios
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple washing units are used simultaneously without synchronized control, then user convenience is improved, but washing cycles cannot be synchronized to start and finish at the same time
Solution Approach 1:
The control units exchange control signals and operational status information through the communication bus. This feedback mechanism allows each control unit to adjust its washing cycle timing to achieve synchronized start and stop times, while still allowing flexible course selection for each unit
Solution Approach 2:
The control system performs preliminary synchronization by calculating and setting the washing courses before actual washing begins. The control units receive predetermined control signals that ensure synchronized operation from the start, eliminating the need for complex real-time adjustments during washing
3Productivity
If washing units require intercommunication to synchronize operations, then simultaneous washing can be achieved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control system is divided into independent control units with dedicated processors and memories for each washing unit. This segmentation reduces overall system complexity by distributing control functions while maintaining synchronization through simple control signal exchange on a shared bus
Solution Approach 2:
The control units use identical or similar control architectures and processing logic. Each control unit is essentially a copy of the others, which simplifies the overall system design by using standardized modules rather than complex unique control logic for each unit
Data Source
AI summary
A laundry treatment apparatus according to the present invention comprises: first and second washing units for performing washing, the first and second washing units each having a separate washing space; a first control unit which, when a command for dual washing is input through an input unit, controls the first washing unit such that the same performs washing according to a dual washing course in which the first washing unit and the second washing unit are set to perform washing at the same time, and outputs a dual control signal corresponding to the dual washing course; and a second control unit for controlling, in response to the output dual control signal, the second washing unit such that the same performs washing according to the dual washing course. The present invention efficiently performs washing by using both the first and second washing units at the same time according to the dual washing course.