Integrated Sensing Module for Dishwasher Sump Space Efficiency
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Solution Overview
Problem
Dishwashers face challenges in efficiently utilizing the inner space of the sump due to the separate installation and space requirements of water sensing and temperature sensors, leading to potential misidentification of water levels and inefficient operation.
Innovation Solution
A sensing module is integrated into the dishwasher's water collecting portion, featuring a capacitive water sensing sensor and a temperature sensor mounted on a printed circuit board within a sensor housing, which includes a resin-filled design and a compact configuration to optimize space usage, allowing simultaneous sensing of water presence and temperature.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If water sensing sensor and temperature sensor are installed separately in the sump, then each sensor can be independently positioned, but the inner space of the sump is not efficiently utilized and device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the water sensing sensor and temperature sensor into a single integrated sensing module that is installed together in the sump. This merging of multiple sensors into one modular unit efficiently utilizes the limited inner space of the sump while reducing installation complexity compared to separate sensor installations.
Solution Approach 2:
The sensing module serves multiple functions simultaneously - it performs both water level sensing and temperature measurement within a single device. This multi-functionality allows the compact sensing module to replace what would otherwise require separate sensor installations, optimizing space usage in the sump.
2Reliability
If separate sensors are used for water sensing and temperature sensing, then each sensor type can be optimized independently, but the number of components increases and installation becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates both the water sensing sensor and temperature sensor within a single sensing module housing, reducing the total number of separate components. This integration maintains the functional independence and sensing accuracy of each sensor type while simplifying the overall component count and installation process.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple sensors are installed in the sump, then comprehensive water monitoring is achieved, but the installation structure becomes complex and space utilization decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The sensing module is designed as a multi-functional unit that provides both water level detection and temperature monitoring capabilities within a single compact device. This approach achieves comprehensive water monitoring while occupying minimal space in the sump compared to installing separate sensors for each function.
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 enables efficient utilization of the sump's inner space, prevents misidentification of residual water, and ensures accurate water level sensing and temperature monitoring, enhancing the dishwasher's operational efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
the water sensing sensor may include a capacitive sensor which includes a first electrode disposed on a first surface of the printed circuit board and a second electrode disposed on a second surface of the printed circuit board opposite to the first surface
Data Source
AI summary
A dishwasher including a washing chamber to perform dishwashing, a water collecting portion provided at a lower portion of the washing chamber to gather water used for washing, and a sensing module which is disposed in the water collecting portion and integrally includes a water sensing sensor to sense whether or not water is present and a temperature sensor to sense a temperature of water. Since the sensing module simultaneously serves as the water sensing sensor and the temperature sensor, it may be possible to more efficiently utilize an inner space of the water collecting portion.