Gravity-Operated Diverter Valve for Dishwasher Spray Alternation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional water diverter systems in dishwashers are costly and complex, or require extra water and higher pumping requirements to alternate water flow between multiple spray arm assemblies, which increases energy consumption and water usage.
Innovation Solution
A gravity and flow-operated diverter valve with a housing and valve member that cycles between flow positions using a cam follower structure, allowing water to be diverted between two outlet openings without the need for solenoid valves or a pump-driven column, reducing water usage and system complexity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If solenoid valves are used to divert water between spray assemblies, then water flow alternation is achieved, but device cost and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The valve member automatically alternates water flow between spray assemblies using the kinetic energy of the water flow itself. The cam follower structure converts the linear motion of flowing water into rotational motion of the valve member, eliminating the need for external solenoid valves or control systems. The system serves itself by using its operating medium (water) to drive the switching mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex electromagnetic solenoid valve systems with a simple mechanical cam follower mechanism. The cam follower structure translates water flow motion into valve member rotation, substituting electronic control with a passive mechanical system that achieves the same flow diversion function with fewer components and lower complexity.
2Ease of operation
If a pump-driven column of water is used to move a floating ball diverter, then water flow alternation is achieved, but water consumption and energy requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The valve member is directly actuated by the water flow passing through the valve body, using the kinetic energy of the water itself to drive the cam follower mechanism. No separate pump is required to move water or drive the diverter, as the operational water flow provides the driving force for alternating between spray assemblies.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes hydraulic principles by allowing water flow to directly move the valve member through pressure and kinetic energy. The cam follower mechanism converts this hydraulic motion into rotational movement, eliminating the need for additional mechanical pumps while achieving reliable flow alternation between outlets.
3Ease of operation
If a pump-driven column of water is used to move a floating ball diverter, then water flow alternation is achieved, but water consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses the operational water flow intended for the spray assemblies to drive the valve member alternation. No additional water is consumed to operate the diverter mechanism, as the water that would otherwise flow to one spray assembly is used to drive the switching mechanism and then redirected to the other assembly.
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 effectively alternates water flow between spray arm assemblies with reduced water and energy consumption, providing a cost-effective and efficient method for water diversion in dishwashers.
Implementation Method 1
A gravity and flow-operated diverter valve
Implementation Method 2
flow-operated diverter valve
Data Source
AI summary
A gravity and flow operated diverter valve diverts liquid flow from one source to either of two output destinations. The valve includes a housing, an inlet opening, a first outlet opening and a second outlet opening. A valve member is located coaxially in the housing interior, the valve member having at least one flow path extending axially therethough, an exterior edge of the valve member and an interior surface of the side wall having a cooperating cam follower structure defining a cyclic path, the path having at least two no flow positions in which the valve member is spaced from the upper wall, and at least two flow positions in which the flow path in the disc selectively allows communication with one or both of the first and second outlet openings, the cyclic path arranged so that on successive liquid flows into the inlet opening the valve member cycles between the at least two flow positions to selectively direct flow out of one or both of the first and second outlet openings. Related dishwasher designs are also disclosed.