Floating-Ball Actuation Mechanism for Low-Wear Water Routing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing actuation devices in household appliances, such as washing machines and dishwashers, are cumbersome and prone to wear due to complex mechanisms with multiple actuators or single actuators that are costly and inefficient.
Innovation Solution
A compact actuation device with a solenoid actuator and a mechanism featuring a lever and rod system, utilizing a floating ball to transfer motion between the actuator and the driven member, allowing for selective movement and reduced wear, enabling efficient water flow direction to different compartments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single actuator is used to control the movable nozzle, then the device complexity is reduced, but the mechanism becomes cumbersome and subject to wear
Solution Approach 1:
The actuator system is segmented into a solenoid actuator and a ratchet mechanism with pawl, where the solenoid provides actuation force and the ratchet-pawl assembly provides mechanical advantage and positioning. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function, reducing overall complexity while improving reliability through distributed mechanical stress.
Solution Approach 2:
The ratchet mechanism acts as an intermediary between the solenoid actuator and the movable nozzle. It translates the linear motion of the solenoid into controlled angular or linear displacement of the nozzle, providing mechanical advantage and reducing the wear on the solenoid while maintaining precise control.
2Measurement precision
If multiple actuators are used to control the movable nozzle, then the control precision is improved, but the device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The ratchet mechanism serves multiple functions: it provides mechanical advantage for precise positioning, acts as a one-way clutch to maintain position, and enables bidirectional control through engagement and disengagement of the pawl. This multi-functionality replaces what would otherwise require multiple separate actuators, reducing complexity while maintaining precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically engages and disengages the pawl with the ratchet teeth based on control signals. When the pawl is engaged, precise positioning is achieved; when disengaged, the nozzle can move freely or be reset. This dynamic control provides precision when needed without the complexity of continuously engaged multiple actuators.
3Ease of operation
If a compact mechanism is used to reduce device size, then the ease of operation is improved, but the mechanism becomes more subject to wear
Solution Approach 1:
The ratchet mechanism is nested within the actuator assembly, with the pawl and ratchet teeth integrated into the compact structure. The spring-loaded pawl is housed within the actuator body, and the ratchet wheel is positioned to engage directly with the movable nozzle assembly. This nesting achieves compactness without compromising the wear resistance of the individual components.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring-loaded pawl provides beforehand cushioning by absorbing shock and reducing impact loads on the ratchet teeth during engagement and disengagement. This pre-compression of the spring cushiones the mechanical interactions, reducing wear on the compact components while maintaining ease of operation.
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
The solution provides a simple, compact, and durable actuation mechanism that reduces mechanical wear and complexity, enabling precise control of water flow to various compartments, enhancing the operational efficiency and longevity of appliances.
Implementation Method 1
A compact actuation device with a solenoid actuator
Implementation Method 2
utilizing a floating ball to transfer motion between the actuator and the driven member
Data Source
AI summary
An actuation device comprises a driving member, a driven member and an actuator device. The driven member has a seat, in which there is operatively inserted, with possibility of relative movement, an engagement part of the driving member. According to the invention also the driving member has a seat, which, in at least one position of the actuation system, at least partially faces the seat of the driven member. The actuation system further comprises a floating body, displaceable in a controlled way between the two seats when said seats at least partially face one another.