Mobile Surfactant Dosing System with Periodic Release
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing dosing systems for dishwashers and similar appliances are complex, costly, and inefficient in releasing surfactant preparations, particularly those in liquid or gel form, leading to incomplete dissolution and residue issues due to gel formation and inadequate temperature control.
Innovation Solution
A modular, miniaturized dosing system with a separate control unit and container, using gravity for product release and incorporating sensors and actuators for precise dosing, encapsulated in a splash-proof housing with acid/alkali-resistant materials, allowing for flexible application and reduced production costs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a one-shot dosing method is used to release surfactant preparations, then the dosing process is simple and quick, but gel layers form immediately after dosing which prevent rapid dissolution and leave residues
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies periodic action by releasing the surfactant preparation in multiple sequential doses rather than a single shot. The dosing device divides the total dosage into several portions released at different times during the wash cycle, allowing each portion to dissolve before the next is released. This prevents gel layer formation and ensures complete dissolution while maintaining dosing efficiency.
2Measurement precision
If a complex mechanical control structure is used for temperature-controlled dosing, then precise dosing at defined temperatures is achieved, but production costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical control structures with a temperature-sensitive polymer-based dosing mechanism. The polymer material inherently responds to temperature changes by changing its properties, enabling automatic dosing control without complex mechanical sensors, actuators, or control systems. This achieves precise temperature-controlled dosing while significantly reducing device complexity and production costs.
3Quantity of substance
If liquid or gel preparations are dosed in high concentrations, then active ingredient efficiency is optimized, but gel formation increases and prevents complete dissolution
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses periodic action to release concentrated surfactant preparations in multiple sequential doses rather than a single large dose. This allows each concentrated portion to dissolve completely in the available water before the next portion is released, preventing gel layer formation even when high active ingredient concentrations are used. The time intervals between doses enable complete dissolution of each portion.
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
Enables precise, controlled release of surfactant preparations, minimizing residue and ensuring complete dissolution in warm water, thus enhancing cleaning performance and reducing waste, while being adaptable to various applications and sizes.
Implementation Method 1
The dispensing of cleaning agents is controlled by a bimetal which, when a predetermined temperature is reached, triggers a spring mechanism
Implementation Method 2
the at least one container has at least one outlet opening which is arranged in such a way that the product can be released from the container by gravity
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3~4
AI summary
Mobile release and dosing system (1), particularly for preparations containing washing or cleaning agents, comprising at least one receptacle (3) for receiving at least one first product (4) capable of flow or dispersion, wherein the receptacle (3) has at least one release opening (5) which is arranged in such a way that a release of the product by gravity from the receptacle (3) is effected in the operational position of the release system (1); a control apparatus (2) which can be coupled with the release opening (5) of the receptacle (3) and which drives a dosing and release of at least the first flow- or dispersion-capable product (4) from the receptacle (3) into the surrounding area. Said control apparatus (2) comprises at least one sensor (8) which detects physical and/or chemical properties and/or the material condition of the surrounding area of the sensor, measured either qualitatively or quantitatively; a control unit (9) which transforms the signals of the sensor (8) into at least one control signal usable for an actuator (10) by means of at least one control program stored in the control unit (9); an actuator (10) which transforms a control signal of the control unit (9) into a different output quantity with which an object (12, 18, 24) is moved or caused to move, wherein the actuator (10) affects at least one dispenser (12) directly or indirectly; at least one dispenser (12) which is affected directly or indirectly by the actuator (10), wherein as a result of this influence, the opening and/or the closing of the release opening (5) of the receptacle (3) is effected; at least one energy source (6) which supplies at least the control unit (9) and the actuator (10) with a suitable form of energy.