Multi-outlet fluid flow system for an appliance incorporating a bi-directional motor
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional single-phase synchronous motors used in appliances are limited to unidirectional operation, requiring two motors for bi-directional drain pump functionality, which increases complexity and energy consumption.
Innovation Solution
A bi-directional, self-starting single-phase synchronous motor with a rotor that can begin rotation in both torque-favorable and torque-unfavorable directions by utilizing a magnetic potential position, allowing a single motor to achieve bi-directional impeller rotation within a pump chamber with separate outlets for drainage and recirculation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single-phase synchronous motor is used for drain pump operation, then the motor structure is simple and energy consumption is low, but the motor can only operate in one direction
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the motor's operational characteristics changeable through rotor positioning. The rotor can be positioned at different angular positions relative to the stator magnetic field, enabling the motor to start and operate in either clockwise or counter-clockwise direction. This dynamic positioning capability transforms a traditionally unidirectional motor into a bi-directional motor while maintaining the simple single-phase structure.
2Adaptability or versatility
If two motors are used to achieve bi-directional drain pump functionality, then the pump can drain in both directions, but the device complexity and energy consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing a single-phase synchronous motor that can perform multiple functions - operating in both clockwise and counter-clockwise directions. The motor achieves bi-directional operation through rotor positioning at different angular positions, eliminating the need for separate motors for each direction. This multi-functional capability reduces the motor quantity from two to one while maintaining full drain capability in both directions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the functionality of two separate unidirectional motors into a single bi-directional motor. By combining the start windings and run windings in a single-phase configuration and utilizing rotor positioning, the system consolidates what would require two independent motors into one integrated unit, reducing device complexity and energy consumption.
3Adaptability or versatility
If two motors are used for bi-directional operation, then both drain and recirculation functions are achieved, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The single-phase synchronous motor achieves multi-functionality by supporting both drain and recirculation operations through bi-directional rotation. The motor can operate in clockwise direction for drain function and counter-clockwise direction for recirculation function, eliminating the need for two separate motors and thereby reducing overall energy consumption of the system.
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 enables efficient bi-directional operation of a drain pump with reduced energy consumption and complexity, using a single motor to manage fluid flow in both directions, overcoming the limitations of conventional synchronous motors.
Implementation Method 1
a rotor operable relative to a stator in magnetic communication with the stator in first and second rotational directions
Data Source
AI summary
A drain pump for an appliance includes a single, self-starting, single-phase synchronous motor and a pump chamber having an inlet and first and second outlets. The first outlet is a drain outlet and the second outlet is a recirculation outlet. An impeller is disposed within the pump chamber and is selectively and bi-directionally driven by the single-phase synchronous motor. Rotation of the impeller in a first direction directs fluid from the inlet toward the drain outlet and away from the recirculation outlet. Rotation of the impeller in the second direction directs the fluid from the inlet toward the recirculation outlet and away from the drain outlet.