Low-Mounted Detergent Module With Rinsable Flow Path for Washers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional laundry treating apparatuses are inconvenient due to the elevated position of the detergent storage unit, requiring users to lift detergents high up for introduction, and often lead to clogged detergent supply channels.
Innovation Solution
A laundry treating apparatus with a detergent supply module that includes a detergent discharge conduit, pump connection conduit, and detergent supply conduit, positioned at a lower level, allowing easy detergent supply and featuring a rinsable flow channel to prevent clogging.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If the detergent storage unit is positioned at the upper portion of the laundry treating apparatus, then the detergent can be stored in a compact space, but the user experiences inconvenience when introducing detergent due to the high position
Solution Approach 1:
The detergent storage system is divided into two separate components: a removable container for detergent storage and a fixed detergent supply module with discharge mechanism. This segmentation allows the container to be positioned at a convenient lower level while the supply module remains integrated in the upper portion, resolving the contradiction between compact storage and ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The detergent supply module acts as an intermediary between the user-introduced container and the washing drum. It receives detergent from the container and automatically supplies it to the drum through controlled discharge, eliminating the need for users to manually introduce detergent to the upper portion while maintaining efficient detergent delivery.
2Productivity
If the detergent supply channel is positioned at the upper portion, then the detergent can be directly supplied to the drum, but the flow channel is prone to clogging
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of positioning the detergent discharge at the upper portion near the drum, the discharge conduit is inverted to be located at the lower portion of the detergent supply module. This inversion allows the detergent to flow downward through a lower-positioned channel, reducing clogging while maintaining supply efficiency through gravitational assistance and controlled discharge.
Solution Approach 2:
The detergent supply module incorporates a pump mechanism that uses hydraulic principles to control detergent discharge. The pump creates controlled pressure to move detergent through the flow channel, preventing stagnation and clogging while ensuring reliable and efficient detergent delivery to the drum.
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 lowered detergent storage position and integrated detergent supply module facilitate easy detergent access and prevent clogging, ensuring a constant detergent supply during washing.
Implementation Method 1
a pump connection conduit to connect an interior of the accommodation frame with the detergent pump
Implementation Method 2
a detergent supply conduit to guide the detergent discharged from the detergent pump to an upper surface of the tub
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention provides a laundry treating apparatus comprising: a cabinet (110) provided with an introduction port (113) for introduction of laundry; a tub (130) arranged in the cabinet (110) to provide a space for storing washing water, the tub (130) communicating with the introduction port (113); a detergent supply module (200) positioned at a lower portion of the introduction port (113) to supply a detergent to the tub (130), the detergent supply module (200) being detachably provided to the cabinet (110), the detergent supply module (200) comprising a container (230, 231, 232) to store the detergent therein; and a water supply unit (160) comprising a water supply channel (162) arranged to connect a water supply source to the tub.