Lid-Mounted Filter Assembly for Microfiber Capture in Washing Machines
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Solution Overview
Problem
Washing machines release microfibers into wastewater systems and aquatic environments, posing environmental concerns due to unknown effects, and existing solutions require significant modifications or increased appliance size.
Innovation Solution
A filter assembly integrated into the washing machine lid, featuring a movable assembly box and a filter cartridge, which filters wash fluid before it is recirculated or drained, effectively capturing microfibers without enlarging the appliance or altering its components significantly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If a filter assembly is added to remove microfibers from wash fluid, then environmental harm is reduced, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The filter assembly is merged with the existing lid structure of the washing machine. The assembly box is mounted to the lid, and the filter cartridge integrates with the lid's movement, combining the filtration function with the existing lid component rather than adding a separate complex structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The lid serves multiple functions: it covers the opening for loading articles, restricts access to the tub, and now also supports the filter assembly that filters wash fluid. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional dedicated components.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If a filter assembly is integrated into the lid, then microfiber filtration is achieved, but the ease of operation is reduced due to movable assembly box
Solution Approach 1:
The assembly box is designed to be movable relative to the lid, allowing it to move between positions. This dynamic design enables the filter assembly to accommodate the lid's movement while maintaining filtration functionality, and allows for easier access to the filter cartridge for maintenance.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If filtration is performed upstream from the tub outlet, then microfibers are effectively removed, but the volume of the appliance increases
Solution Approach 1:
The filter cartridge is selectively received within the box compartment, creating a nested structure. The assembly box itself is mounted within or on the lid structure, nesting the filtration system within the existing appliance boundaries without requiring additional external space.
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 filter assembly efficiently removes microfibers from wash fluid, mitigating environmental impact without requiring additional space or modifying the washing machine's structure, ensuring effective filtration during normal operation.
Implementation Method 1
The filter assembly may further include a filter cartridge selectively received within the box compartment to filter liquid upstream from the assembly outlet
Data Source
AI summary
A washing machine appliance may include a cabinet, a tub, a lid, and a filter assembly. The cabinet may define an opening. The tub may be disposed within the cabinet for the receipt of articles therein. The lid may be movably mounted to the cabinet to selectively cover the opening and restrict access to the tub. The filter assembly may be mounted to the lid to move therewith. The filter assembly may include an assembly box defining a box compartment and an assembly outlet upstream from the tub to direct liquid thereto. The assembly box may be movable relative to the lid. The filter assembly may further include a filter cartridge selectively received within the box compartment to filter liquid upstream from the assembly outlet.