Integrated Single Dose and Bulk Dispenser With Overflow Coupling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Laundry treating appliances require additional space and manufacturing costs due to separate structures and reservoirs for single dose and bulk dispensers, and users face inconvenience in loading treating chemistries through different access openings.
Innovation Solution
An integrated dispenser system that fluidly couples a single dose reservoir to a bulk dispensing reservoir via an overflow mechanism, allowing the bulk reservoir to be filled by overfilling the single dose reservoir, eliminating the need for multiple pour zones and simplifying user interaction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If separate structures and reservoirs are used for single dose and bulk dispensers, then each dispenser can function independently, but the appliance requires additional space and manufacturing costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the single dose reservoir and bulk reservoir into a single integrated dispenser structure. The single dose reservoir is positioned within or adjacent to the bulk reservoir, sharing common structural elements such as walls and support frameworks. This merging allows both dispensing functions to coexist in a reduced overall volume while maintaining independent operation through separate fluid pathways and dispensing mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The single dose reservoir is nested within the bulk reservoir structure or positioned in a nested configuration. The single dose reservoir utilizes the space within or alongside the bulk reservoir, effectively using the bulk reservoir's structural envelope. This nesting arrangement allows the smaller single dose compartment to share the larger bulk compartment's spatial footprint, reducing the total volume required in the appliance.
2Reliability
If separate structures and reservoirs are used for single dose and bulk dispensers, then each dispenser can function independently, but manufacturing costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the single dose and bulk reservoirs into a single manufactured assembly, sharing common walls, supports, and housing structures. This merging reduces the total number of separate parts that need to be manufactured, assembled, and quality-checked, thereby lowering manufacturing complexity and costs while preserving the independent functionality of each dispensing system through separate fluid channels.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated dispenser structure serves multiple functions: it houses both the bulk reservoir and single dose reservoir, provides common structural support, and enables both bulk and single dose dispensing operations. This multi-functionality reduces the overall component count and simplifies the manufacturing process compared to producing separate independent dispenser units.
3Adaptability or versatility
If users load treating chemistries through different access openings for single dose and bulk dispensers, then each reservoir can be accessed independently, but user convenience decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent provides a single unified access opening that allows users to load treating chemistries into both the bulk reservoir and single dose reservoir. The access structure is designed to permit simultaneous or sequential filling of both compartments through one opening, eliminating the need for users to locate and operate separate access points. This maintains independent access capability while significantly improving user convenience.
4Volume of stationary object
If an integrated dispenser system is used, then space usage is optimized and manufacturing complexity is reduced, but the structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The integrated dispenser is segmented into distinct functional zones: a bulk reservoir section and a single dose reservoir section, each with its own fluid pathways and dispensing mechanisms. This segmentation allows the complex integrated structure to be designed and manufactured as modular components that can be independently tested and assembled, reducing the practical complexity despite the advanced integration.
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 integrated dispenser system optimizes space usage, reduces manufacturing complexity, and enhances user convenience by allowing efficient filling and dispensing of treating chemistries within a single access point, thereby streamlining the operation of laundry treating appliances.
Implementation Method 1
an overflow provided within the bottom wall or the side wall and overlying the bulk treating chemistry reservoir when the dispenser is in the opened position and wherein the bulk treating chemistry reservoir can be filled by overfilling the single dose reservoir
Data Source
AI summary
A laundry treating appliance for treating laundry according to an automatic cycle of operation includes a treating chamber and a dispenser fluidly coupled to the treating chamber. The dispenser has a single dose reservoir, a bulk dispensing reservoir, and an overflow fluidly coupling the single dose reservoir to the bulk dispensing reservoir.