Detergent feeding device and washing machine having the same
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing detergent feeding devices for washing machines often include electrical components within the detergent case, which can complicate the design and functionality.
Innovation Solution
A detergent feeding device with a detachable detergent introduction module on the outer surface of the detergent case, utilizing a gear system and pumps to introduce liquid detergent into the washing machine, eliminating the need for electrical components within the case.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If electrical components are integrated within the detergent case, then the detergent feeding device can perform automated detergent introduction, but the device complexity and design difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The detergent introduction module is extracted from the detergent case and positioned on its outer surface. This separation removes electrical components from the detergent case interior, simplifying its structure while maintaining automated detergent introduction functionality through the externally positioned module with pump and gear mechanisms
Solution Approach 2:
The detergent feeding device is divided into distinct functional modules: the detergent case for storage, the detergent introduction module for pumping and channeling, and the connector system for selective engagement. This modular segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently, reducing overall design complexity while preserving automation
2Productivity
If electrical components are integrated within the detergent case, then automated detergent pumping is achieved, but the internal structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The pump mechanism and associated electrical components are extracted from the detergent case interior and repositioned on the outer surface. The detergent case maintains its simple storage function with openings for detergent introduction, while the pumping operation is handled by the external module, thereby preserving productivity without complicating internal structure
Solution Approach 2:
A connector system acts as an intermediary between the detergent case and the detergent introduction module. This connector enables selective engagement and disengagement, allowing the pump to be positioned externally while maintaining functional integration during operation, thus separating structural complexity from operational efficiency
3Ease of repair
If the detergent introduction module is detachably installed on the outer surface, then user accessibility and maintenance ease improve, but the device structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The detergent introduction module is segmented as a separate, detachable unit from the detergent case. This segmentation allows the module to be easily removed for maintenance or replacement without disassembling the entire detergent case, improving accessibility while the modular connection mechanism keeps the added structural complexity manageable
Solution Approach 2:
The connection between the detergent case and the detergent introduction module is designed to be dynamically changeable - easily connectable and disconnectable. This dynamic interface allows the module to be positioned on the outer surface for ease of maintenance while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure through standardized connection mechanisms
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 simplifies the internal structure of the detergent case, enhances user accessibility, and ensures efficient detergent distribution without electrical components, improving the overall operational reliability and user experience.
Implementation Method 1
The detergent pump may include a first gear formed in an annular shape and provided with teeth on an inner circumferential surface thereof, a second gear formed to have an outer diameter smaller than an inner diameter of the first gear and provided with teeth on an outer circumferential surface thereof to engage with the teeth provided on the inner circumferential surface of the first gear
Data Source
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AI summary
Disclosed herein is a washing machine including a housing (10), a tub (20) disposed within the housing (10) to retain water, a spin basket (30) rotatably installed in the tub (20), a detergent feeding device (70) to supply detergent and water to the tub (20). The detergent feeding device (70) includes a detergent housing (700) installed in the housing (10), a detergent case (710)installed in the detergent housing (700) to store liquid detergent, and a detergent introduction module (730) to introduce the liquid detergent stored in the detergent case (710) into the detergent housing (700). As the detergent introduction module (730) is installed on the outer surface of the detergent case (710), placement of electrical components inside the detergent case (710) is avoided.