Inclined Optical Filter Module for Food Waste Disposer

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Solution Overview

Problem

Condensate formation in optical filter modules of food waste disposers reduces photodecomposition efficiency and can lead to performance degradation or failure of light source units.

Innovation Solution

An inclined structure in the optical filter module is designed to discharge condensate downward, incorporating a photocatalytic filter inclined at 30 to 60 degrees from the direction of gravity, with a light source unit spaced 15 mm to 25 mm apart and a cover surface that allows light transmission to prevent condensate accumulation on the light source unit.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If gas containing water vapor passes through the optical filter module, then deodorization efficiency is enhanced and activated carbon filter life is increased, but condensate forms on the light source unit reducing photodecomposition efficiency

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedeodorization efficiencyVSAvoidphotodecomposition efficiency

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent extracts the harmful condensate from the optical filter module by introducing a separate condensate collection chamber. The condensate that forms during photodecomposition is collected and discharged through a dedicated discharge port, preventing it from accumulating on the light source unit and maintaining photodecomposition efficiency while preserving the deodorization function.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces a condensate collection chamber as an intermediary component between the optical filter module and the external environment. This intermediate structure captures condensate before it can harm the light source unit, acting as a buffer that protects the photodecomposition system while allowing the deodorization process to continue effectively.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Reliability

If condensate is not discharged, then photodecomposition efficiency is maintained, but light source unit performance degrades or fails

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvephotodecomposition efficiencyVSAvoidlight source unit life

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDuration of action of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a self-service system where the optical filter module automatically collects and discharges its own condensate through a dedicated collection chamber and discharge port. This self-managing mechanism prevents condensate accumulation that would otherwise degrade the light source unit, extending its operational life without requiring external intervention.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent performs preliminary action by providing a condensate collection chamber that captures condensate as soon as it forms during the photodecomposition process. This preventive measure removes condensate before it can accumulate and cause performance degradation or failure of the light source unit, thereby extending its service life.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

3Ease of operation

If photocatalytic filter is inclined at 30 to 60 degrees, then condensate discharges effectively, but manufacturing precision requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecondensate discharge efficiencyVSAvoidfilter inclination angle

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent specifies a parameter range (30 to 60 degrees) for the photocatalytic filter inclination angle rather than a single precise value. This parameter change approach allows manufacturers to achieve effective condensate discharge within a broader tolerance range, reducing manufacturing precision requirements while maintaining operational effectiveness.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

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 effectively prevents performance degradation and failure of the light source unit by ensuring condensate is discharged, maintaining photodecomposition efficiency and extending the life of the optical filter module.

Implementation Method 1

By photodecomposing the odor inside the water vapor by disposing an optical filter module before the gas containing water vapor flows into the activated carbon filter

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectPhotodecomposition: Photodissociation

Implementation Method 2

The gas containing water vapor may be deodorized by passing through an activated carbon filter containing activated carbon that absorbs odor

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectAbsorption: Absorption (physical)

Implementation Method 3

an inclined cover surface between the light source unit and the photocatalytic filter, the inclined cover surface being configured to discharge the condensate downward

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectGravity: Gravitation

Data Source

PatentUS20240342336A1Optical filter module and food waste disposal apparatus comprising same

Publication Date: 2024.10.17 SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO LTD

AI summary

A food waste disposal apparatus, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, comprises: a chamber for accommodating food waste; and a deodorizing device for deodorizing gas inside the chamber. The deodorizing device may comprise: a photocatalyst filter arranged to be inclined; a light source unit for irradiating light having a frequency within a specific range to the photocatalyst filter; and an activated carbon filter in which activated carbon is accommodated so as to deodorize gas passing through the photocatalyst filter.