Filter apparatus and clothes treating apparatus having the same
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current washing machines lack an efficient and automated system for filtering and cleaning filters, leading to reduced filter lifespan and increased maintenance costs, as they rely on manual replacement and lack real-time monitoring of water flow and levels.
Innovation Solution
A filter apparatus connected to the washing machine's drain device, equipped with a sensor to detect water levels and flow, and a controller that operates a cleaning device to maintain the filter's effectiveness by cleaning it based on preset conditions, such as water level detection, ensuring continuous operation and extending filter life.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If manual filter replacement is used, then device complexity is reduced, but filter lifespan is shortened and maintenance costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The filter cleaning device automatically cleans the filter without requiring manual intervention. The cleaning member rotates against the filter surface to remove accumulated foreign materials, and the system self-regulates based on sensor feedback about water flow conditions, enabling the filter to serve itself and extend its operational life
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor detects water flow conditions and provides feedback to the control unit, which then activates the filter cleaning device when clogging is detected. This closed-loop feedback system ensures the filter is cleaned at appropriate intervals based on actual usage conditions, optimizing filter lifespan without excessive cleaning operations
2Extent of automation
If manual filter replacement is used, then automation level is reduced, but maintenance frequency increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs filter cleaning automatically through the cleaning member and motor assembly, eliminating the need for users to manually disassemble and clean or replace filters. The entire cleaning process occurs within the filter apparatus without requiring user time or effort
Solution Approach 2:
The filter cleaning device operates periodically to maintain continuous filter effectiveness. The sensor continuously monitors water flow conditions, and the cleaning operation is triggered when needed, ensuring the filter remains functional without interruption to the washing machine's operation
3Measurement precision
If real-time water flow monitoring is implemented, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor system replaces complex mechanical flow measurement mechanisms with a simpler detection装置 that monitors water flow conditions electrically or magnetically. This provides precise real-time data about flow rate and clogging conditions without requiring complex mechanical components
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor serves multiple functions: detecting water flow rate, identifying clogging conditions, and providing feedback for cleaning activation. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate measurement and control components, balancing measurement precision with acceptable system complexity
Data Source
AI summary
A filter apparatus positionable outside a washing machine and connectable to a drain device of the washing machine, the filter apparatus including a filter case including a case inlet a case outlet; a filter detachably installable inside the filter case, the filter through which water flowing from the case inlet to the case outlet passes; a sensor to detect water entered into the filter apparatus from the drain device and to produce a corresponding signal; and a filter cleaning device to clean the filter in accordance with the signal produced by the sensor.