Laundry treatment agent storage and dispensing device, washing machine, and laundry treatment agent dispensing control method of washing machine
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing washing machines have inaccurate and inefficient automatic detergent dispensing systems, which are costly and complex, and fail to provide precise quantitative dispensing of multiple detergents and care agents.
Innovation Solution
A multifunctional detergent dispensing system that integrates a storage device with a dispensing device, using flexible separators deformed by inlet water to accurately dispense laundry treatment agents, simplifying the structure and reducing costs by controlling water inlet to manage dispensing amounts and times.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If Venturi principle is used for automatic detergent dispensing, then dispensing automation is achieved, but structure becomes complicated and cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the essential function of automatic dispensing from the complex Venturi system by using a simple water inlet pipe that utilizes natural water flow pressure to drive the dispensing process, eliminating the need for complex pressure control mechanisms while maintaining automation
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses the washing machine's own water inlet flow to provide the pressure needed for dispensing detergent, rather than requiring an external power source or complex pump system. The water flow itself serves the dual purpose of filling the drum and driving the detergent dispensing mechanism
2Extent of automation
If motor-drive gear pumps or peristaltic pumps are used for detergent dispensing, then automated dispensing is achieved, but cost increases and precise quantitative dispensing cannot be achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces motor-driven pump systems with a passive mechanical system that uses water flow pressure and a flexible diaphragm mechanism to achieve both automation and precise quantitative dispensing through controlled water flow rates and timing
Solution Approach 2:
The system achieves precise quantitative dispensing by controlling water flow parameters (pressure, flow rate, duration) rather than using mechanical pump components, allowing for accurate dosage control through fluid dynamics parameters
3Ease of operation
If existing automatic detergent dispensing systems are used, then dispensing function is provided, but dispensing accuracy is insufficient and effect of dispensing multiple detergents is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the dispensing system into separate compartments for different detergent types (detergent, softener, bleach) with individual dispensing mechanisms controlled by water flow direction, enabling accurate and separate dispensing of multiple detergent products without cross-contamination
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses water flow as an intermediary medium to control the dispensing of different detergents, where directed water pressure activates specific dispensing pathways for different detergent types, achieving precise control over which detergent is dispensed and in what quantity
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 system achieves accurate and quantitative dispensing of various laundry treatment agents, improving washing efficiency and reducing contamination risks, while simplifying the structure and reducing production costs.
Implementation Method 1
Inlet water of a washing machine flowing into/out of the water inlet cavity, the flexible separator is squeezed to deform
Data Source
AI summary
A laundry treatment agent storage and dispensing device comprises a storage device and a dispensing device which are integrally arranged. A storage cavity or box stores laundry treatment agent. The dispensing device has a hollow cavity, and a flexible separator is hermetically installed in the hollow cavity to divide the hollow cavity into a water inlet cavity and a liquid storage cavity. The liquid storage cavity has a liquid inlet end and a liquid outlet end; the liquid inlet end communicates with the storage cavity or box. Inlet water of the washing machine flows into/out of the water inlet cavity, the flexible separator is squeezed to deform towards the liquid storage cavity to enable the laundry treatment agent accommodated in the liquid storage cavity to be discharged through the liquid outlet end. The laundry treatment agent is stored and automatically dispensed by the storage device and the dispensing device.