Laundry treating apparatus and control method for the same
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Solution Overview
Problem
Large-scale laundry treating apparatuses are inefficient for washing small amounts of laundry, leading to increased energy and water consumption, and are not suitable for washing sensitive items, while small-scale units may not provide enough washing area and can cause water overflow issues due to their design.
Innovation Solution
A laundry treating apparatus with a top loading type configuration above a front loading type, featuring a sensor module to detect the open state of the tub door, preventing operation when open and ensuring safety and efficiency by controlling the washing process based on door states, thus preventing overflow and energy wastage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If a large-scale laundry treating apparatus is used, then washing capacity is improved, but energy consumption and water consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The laundry treating apparatus is divided into two separate washing machines: a first washing machine for front-loading and a second washing machine for top-loading. This segmentation allows each machine to be optimized for specific load sizes, enabling efficient processing of small laundry loads without wasting energy and water, while still providing the capacity to handle larger loads when needed.
2Use of energy by moving object
If a small-scale laundry treating apparatus is used, then energy consumption is reduced, but washing area is insufficient and water overflow issues occur
Solution Approach 1:
Two washing machines with different capacities and configurations are combined into a single integrated system. The first washing machine (front-loading) and second washing machine (top-loading) work together to provide both small-scale energy efficiency and large-scale washing capacity, eliminating the need to choose between size and efficiency.
3Ease of operation
If the tub door is open during operation, then accessibility is improved, but safety hazards and corrosion risks increase
Solution Approach 1:
A sensor module continuously monitors the state of the tub door and provides feedback to the control module. The control module uses this feedback to automatically adjust operation: allowing operation when the door is closed, and stopping operation or preventing startup when the door is open, thereby maintaining safety while preserving accessibility when needed.
4Adaptability or versatility
If a top loading type washing machine is added above a front loading type, then versatility is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The integrated system provides multi-functionality by combining both front-loading and top-loading washing capabilities in one unit. This allows the system to handle various washing needs (different load sizes, fabric types, and user preferences) while presenting a unified, space-efficient solution that doesn't require separate appliances.
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 apparatus efficiently processes small laundry loads with reduced energy consumption and improved safety by ensuring the tub door is closed during operation, preventing overflow and corrosion risks, while maintaining an aesthetically pleasing and space-efficient design.
Implementation Method 1
a first sensor module configured to generate a signal based at least in part on sensing an open state of the tub door
Data Source
AI summary
A laundry treating apparatus includes a cabinet with first and second cabinet doors. A first washing apparatus processes laundry that is placed through the first cabinet door at the front. A second washing apparatus processes laundry that is placed through the second cabinet door at the top. The second washing apparatus includes: a tub that holds water and has an opening at a top that is accessible through the second opening of the cabinet; a tub cover that covers the top of the tub and defines an inlet through which the tub is accessible; a tub door on the tub cover that opens or closes the inlet of the tub cover separately from the second cabinet door opening or closing the second opening; a drum inside the tub configured to rotate about a vertical shaft; and a first sensor that generates a signal based on the tub door being open.