Multi-Tub Washing Machine Layout for Separate Loads and Lower Water Use
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional washing machines require multiple wash cycles for separate laundry items and consume excessive water and energy when washing small loads, as they typically have only one tub and cannot re-introduce laundry during a wash cycle.
Innovation Solution
A washing machine design featuring multiple tubs and drums, allowing for simultaneous washing of separate laundry items and optimizing water and energy usage by using a smaller tub and drum for smaller loads, with independent water supply and discharge systems for each tub.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a single large tub is used to accommodate voluminous laundry, then the washing machine can wash large items, but it consumes excessive water and energy when washing small amounts of laundry
Solution Approach 1:
The washing machine is divided into multiple independent tubs (first tub, second tub, third tub) with different capacities. Each tub can be selected based on the amount and type of laundry, allowing the system to segment the washing function into appropriate size categories rather than using a single large tub for all loads.
Solution Approach 2:
Each tub is designed with specific local qualities suitable for its intended purpose - the first tub for large items, second tub for medium loads, and third tub for small items. This allows each component to have optimized characteristics for its specific function, improving overall system efficiency.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a single large tub is used to accommodate voluminous laundry, then the washing machine can wash large items, but it consumes excessive water when washing small amounts of laundry
Solution Approach 1:
The washing machine is divided into multiple independent tubs (first tub, second tub, third tub) with different capacities. Each tub can be selected based on the amount and type of laundry, allowing the system to segment the washing function into appropriate size categories rather than using a single large tub for all loads.
Solution Approach 2:
Each tub is designed with specific local qualities suitable for its intended purpose - the first tub for large items, second tub for medium loads, and third tub for small items. This allows each component to have optimized characteristics for its specific function, improving overall system efficiency.
3Productivity
If only one tub is provided, then the device structure is simple, but multiple laundry items requiring separate washing cannot be washed simultaneously
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple tubs are merged into a single washing machine body, allowing simultaneous operation of multiple washing cycles. The tubs share common structural elements and control systems, enabling parallel processing of different laundry loads without requiring completely separate machines.
Solution Approach 2:
Each tub is equipped with its own drum and washing mechanism, allowing each to function independently. This multi-functionality enables the washing machine to handle different types of laundry simultaneously - for example, washing clothes in one tub while drying towels in another.
4Ease of operation
If the door is closed to start washing, then the washing process can begin, but laundry cannot be re-introduced into the drum
Solution Approach 1:
The laundry introduction function is segmented across multiple doors - a first door for the first tub and a second door for the second tub. This allows independent access to each tub, enabling continuous operation where one tub can be loaded while another is washing.
Solution Approach 2:
Laundry can be prepared and placed in the second tub before the first tub's washing cycle completes. The preliminary loading of the second tub ensures continuity of operation, allowing the user to maintain a continuous washing schedule without idle time between loads.
Data Source
Figure 1
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AI summary
A washing machine having a plurality of tubs includes a cabinet (110) having a first tub (220) disposed therein, a first door (120, 120', 120'', 420) having a second tub disposed therein, to open and close a laundry introduction opening (121) formed at the cabinet (110), a second door (130) to open and close a laundry introduction opening (121) of the second tub, a first water supply part (255) and a second water supply part (261, 263, 265) to supply washing water to inside of the first tub (220) and the second tub, respectively, and a first water discharge part (285) and a second water discharge part (273-275) to discharge washing water from the first tub (220) and the second tub, respectively. This configuration allows a washing process to be performed at a plurality of spaces. (Fig. 2)