Modular Washing Machine Control Board for Easier Repair and Upgrades
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current washing machines with integral computer boards require full replacement when a single module or control line is damaged, leading to increased maintenance costs and long development cycles due to complex control line routing, making fault analysis difficult and product upgrades costly.
Innovation Solution
A modular computer board system where each control module is connected to corresponding loads via a data bus and power bus, allowing for independent placement and replacement of function control modules such as motor, water feeding, and water discharge control modules, simplifying maintenance and enabling modular assembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If an integral computer board structure is used to integrate various control lines together, then the control function is unified, but the maintenance cost increases and the development period lengthens when a module or control line is damaged
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the integral computer board into multiple independent function control modules (motor control module, water feeding control module, water discharge control module, etc.), each responsible for specific control functions. This segmentation allows individual modules to be replaced without replacing the entire control board, reducing maintenance costs and simplifying repair processes.
2Device complexity
If an integral computer board structure is used to integrate various control lines together, then the control function is unified, but the development period and research and development cost increase when product upgrades or new demands are needed
Solution Approach 1:
The control board is segmented into independent function control modules that can be developed, tested, and upgraded separately. This modular architecture allows for faster product development cycles as new features can be added by developing individual modules rather than redesigning the entire control board.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a universal control board architecture where the main control module can work with different function control modules through standardized interfaces (data bus and power bus). This universality allows the same main control module to support multiple washing machine models and configurations, reducing R&D costs for new product developments.
3Ease of manufacture
If control modules are connected to loads through a power bus with relatively far distance, then the power supply is simplified, but the control lines become long and complex making fault analysis difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent separates control functions into distinct modules positioned close to their respective loads (motor control module near the motor, water feeding control module near the water valve, etc.). This segmentation shortens the control line distances and simplifies routing, making fault analysis easier while maintaining simplified power supply through the power bus connection.
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed is a washing machine with a modular computer board, comprising a control circuit board and function control modules respectively connected to corresponding loads, characterized in that the control circuit board comprises a main control module; the function control modules include at least a motor control module, a water feeding control module, and a water discharge control module; at least one of the function control modules is arranged independently from the control circuit board; and the main control module and the independently arranged function control module are connected to a data bus and a power bus, respectively. A modular construction mode of the computer board control circuit board of the washing machine is achieved by connecting a computer board provided with the main control module to various function control modules respectively via a data bus and a power bus; moreover, the circuit configuration in the washing machine is simplified by mounting the function control modules on or close to corresponding loads.