Load-Door Detergent Dispenser Using Siphon and Water Lifting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Front-loading laundry washing machines face challenges with dispenser placement, cost, and functionality, particularly in efficiently dispensing different washing agents at different times without relying on costly hydraulic systems and solenoid valves prone to wear and failure.
Innovation Solution
A method and design for a front-loading laundry washing machine where the dispenser is integrated into the load door with compartments for multiple washing agents, utilizing a siphon mechanism for liquid agents and direct water lifting from the tub to simplify the system, reducing the need for multiple solenoid valves and enhancing agent dispensing flexibility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a hydraulic system with multiple solenoid valves is used to dispense different washing agents at different times, then the dispensing functionality is improved, but the device complexity and production cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The siphon mechanism automatically activates when water enters the dispenser compartment, using the water flow itself to trigger the dispensing action without requiring external solenoid valves or hydraulic control systems. The system serves itself by utilizing the incoming water to both rinse and dispense the washing agent simultaneously
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts and eliminates the complex hydraulic system and solenoid valves from the dispenser design, replacing them with a simple siphon mechanism that achieves the same dispensing functionality through passive water flow activation rather than active mechanical control
2Ease of operation
If solenoid valves are used to control water flow to dispenser compartments, then the dispensing control is improved, but the reliability decreases due to wear and failure
Solution Approach 1:
The siphon mechanism is activated automatically by the water flow itself, with no external control components required. The water entering the compartment naturally triggers the siphon effect, eliminating solenoid valves that are prone to wear and failure, thereby significantly improving system reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical solenoid valve system with a passive siphon mechanism that relies on fluid dynamics principles rather than mechanical actuation, eliminating the wear-prone components while maintaining dispensing control functionality
3Ease of manufacture
If the dispenser is located outside the tub, then the layout flexibility is improved, but the duct complexity and obstruction risk increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the dispenser directly with the load door structure, eliminating the need for separate external housing and complex ductwork. The dispenser compartment is integrated into the door assembly, and washing agents are dispensed directly into the tub through the door opening, simplifying the overall system architecture
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the dispenser from the traditional external location and repositions it within the load door structure, eliminating the need for external ductwork and hopper assemblies while maintaining layout flexibility through the integrated door design
4Device complexity
If a single compartment dispenser is used in the load door, then the device complexity is reduced, but the adaptability decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the dispenser into multiple separate compartments within the load door structure, with each compartment dedicated to a specific washing agent type (detergent, softener, etc.). This segmentation allows independent control and dispensing of different agents while maintaining a relatively simple overall door-integrated design
Solution Approach 2:
The load door is designed to accommodate multiple dispenser compartments with different functions, making the door structure itself a multi-functional component that handles both access and multiple washing agent dispensing operations through its integrated compartment design
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 solution reduces production costs, eliminates components prone to wear, and allows for efficient dispensing of different washing agents at various times, improving the overall efficiency and reliability of the washing machine.
Implementation Method 1
water is lifted from the tub to the dispenser by turning the drum at a speed comprised between 100 and 900 rpm, preferably between 500 and 700 rpm
Implementation Method 2
utilizing a siphon mechanism for liquid agents
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to a method for dispensing washing agents in a front-loading laundry washing machine, wherein a washing agent is contained within a compartment (207) of a dispenser (206) associated with the load door (209) of the washing machine. The washing agent is carried into the tub of the washing machine by water supplied to the dispenser compartment through direct lifting of water being present in the tub. The invention also relates to a laundry washing machine provided with a door suitable for implementing the method.