Dual Water Path Power Device for Washing Machines
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing washing machines face challenges in accommodating multiple water paths within a limited space due to the use of two independent power pumps, which increase costs, failure rates, and reduce washing capacity, while shared pump heads occupy space and are prone to leakage.
Innovation Solution
A power device for dual water paths with a redesigned water path connecting body featuring a water inflow cavity and two outflow cavities, each with a separate pumping unit, a filter at the inflow cavity outlet, and a through-cavity connecting them, optimizing installation positions and reducing space occupation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If two independent power pumps are installed, then water supply and drainage functions are achieved, but the device occupies large space and increases cost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges two independent pumping units into a single integrated power device with a unified motor and transmission mechanism. The motor drives both pumping units through a transmission assembly, allowing two water path functions to be achieved while occupying significantly less space than two separate pumps would require.
Solution Approach 2:
The single power device is designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously - it provides both water supply and drainage capabilities through its two pumping units. The transmission mechanism is configured to independently drive each pumping unit, enabling the device to handle different water paths with different flow requirements using one universal power source.
2Adaptability or versatility
If two independent power pumps are used, then water path functions are achieved, but the failure rate increases
Solution Approach 1:
By combining two pumping units under a single motor and control system, the patent reduces the total number of independent failure points. The unified power source and integrated control mechanism mean that fewer separate components can fail, thereby reducing the overall failure rate while maintaining dual water path functionality.
3Volume of stationary object
If multiple pump heads share a single cavity, then space is occupied, but pump head direction optimization is difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the internal structure by providing separate cavities for each pumping unit within the integrated power device. Each pumping unit has its own dedicated cavity space, allowing independent optimization of pump head direction and orientation. This segmentation enables each pump head to be optimally positioned for its specific function while maintaining a compact overall structure.
4Reliability
If pump heads operate at lower power to prevent leakage, then water path independence is maintained, but pumping efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements complete segmentation of water paths through separate cavities for each pumping unit, with independent water inlets and outlets. This physical separation ensures that each water path operates independently at optimal power levels without risking cross-contamination or leakage between paths, thereby maintaining both reliability and pumping efficiency.
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3
AI summary
A power device for dual water paths and a washing apparatus are provided. The power device comprises a water path connecting body (1), a filter (4), and two pumping units (5). The water path connecting body (1) is provided with a water inflow cavity (2) and two water outflow cavities (3); the two water outflow cavities (3) are connected in parallel with each other and are connected in series to the water inflow cavity (2); the filter (4) is provided on the water path connecting body (1) and located at a water outlet end of the water inlet cavity (2); and the two pumping units (5) are respectively provided on the two water outlet cavities (3). The optimized design is carried out on the cavities in the water path connecting body (1), and the two pumping units (5) pump water by means of respective water outflow cavities, so that a more reasonable position adjustment can be achieved; water flow filtering is performed by means of a single filter (4), so that the mounting space is reduced, thereby solving the problem of mounting in a limited space in the washing device.