Method and a device for controlled dosing of treating compositions in washing machines
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional automatic dishwashers can only use one detergent composition per wash cycle, forcing consumers to choose between effective cleaning on enzyme-sensitive stains or hard-to-remove stains due to the incompatibility of enzymatic and hypohalite-based detergents, limiting optimal performance across various stains and soils.
Innovation Solution
A removable, automatic washing machine independent device with multiple chambers and sensors that allows for the intelligent dispensing of different treating compositions, such as enzymatic detergents and hypohalite/peroxygen detergents, at specific stages of the wash cycle based on real-time monitoring of wash liquor parameters.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If multiple detergent compositions are used in one wash cycle, then cleaning performance on various stains is improved, but the complexity of the dosing system increases
Solution Approach 1:
The dosing system is divided into multiple separate dosing chambers (first chamber, second chamber, third chamber) that can independently store and dispense different detergent compositions. Each chamber is controlled separately by the control unit, allowing sequential dosing of enzyme-based detergent, hypohalite-based detergent, and rinse agent without mixing until the wash cycle begins.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple detergent compositions are pre-loaded into separate chambers before the wash cycle starts. The control unit pre-determines the dosing sequence and timing based on the selected wash program, so that when the wash cycle begins, the compositions are automatically dispensed in the correct sequence without requiring real-time decision-making during the cycle.
2Productivity
If sequential dosing of multiple detergent compositions is implemented, then optimal performance across all stains is improved, but the dosing time and cycle complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The dosing system uses periodic action by dosing different detergent compositions at specific intervals during the wash cycle rather than all at once. The control unit monitors wash cycle progress and dosing timing, releasing enzyme-based detergent during the initial wash phase, then hypohalite-based detergent in subsequent phases, ensuring each detergent works optimally at the right time without extending the overall cycle duration.
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 optimal cleaning performance across a range of stains and soils by allowing for the sequential and controlled dispensing of multiple detergent compositions, enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of the wash cycle without the limitations of single-detergent systems.
Implementation Method 1
at least one sensor, wherein the chambers of the cartridge are configured to be activated in response to inputs from the at least one sensor
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention provides a method of dispensing a plurality of treating compositions into a multistage automatic washing machine. The method comprises operating a device in the machine. The device comprises at least two chambers. Each chamber contains a treating composition. The chambers are activated in response to input from a sensor. The device has an associated reservoir for collection of wash liquor.