Passive Diverter Indexing Using Pump Flow in Dishwashers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional dishwashing appliances require electrically powered motors for diverters to control fluid flow, increasing manufacturing costs and consuming valuable space within the dishwasher compartment.
Innovation Solution
A passive diverter system that uses fluid flow forces from the pump to switch between outlet ports, eliminating the need for a dedicated motor and optimizing space usage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If an electrically powered motor is used to rotate the diverter element between different ports, then fluid flow control is achieved, but manufacturing cost increases and space is consumed
Solution Approach 1:
The diverter element is rotated by the fluid flow itself rather than an external motor. The flowing fluid exerts force on the diverter element to automatically position it for directing flow to the desired outlet port, making the system self-regulating and eliminating the need for separate actuation mechanisms
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses hydraulic principles where fluid pressure and flow rate directly actuate the diverter element. The fluid dynamics within the housing create the mechanical force needed to rotate the diverter, converting fluid energy into mechanical motion for flow control
2Ease of operation
If a motor is positioned below the diverter in the sump portion, then diverter operation is enabled, but available space in the wash compartment is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The motor component is completely extracted from the system and replaced with a passive fluid-driven mechanism. This removal eliminates the space requirement for motor mounting while maintaining diverter functionality through the fluid-dynamic design of the housing and diverter element interaction
3Ease of operation
If an electric motor is used for the diverter, then precise flow control is achieved, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses the kinetic energy already present in the flowing fluid to perform the work of diverter actuation. No additional energy input is required as the fluid's own motion provides the necessary force for control operations
Solution Approach 2:
The electrical-mechanical system (motor driving diverter) is replaced with a pure hydraulic system where fluid pressure and flow directly control the diverter position, eliminating electrical energy consumption while maintaining control functionality
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
The passive diverter reduces costs and enhances space efficiency by leveraging fluid flow to control fluid distribution among spray assemblies without an electric motor, improving the operational efficiency and design of dishwashers.
Implementation Method 1
The passive diverter uses the forces provided by a flow of fluid from a pump to switch between different outlet ports
Implementation Method 2
A biasing element is configured to urge the rotatable disk into the first position
Data Source
AI summary
A passive diverter is provided that does not require a dedicated motor to switch between multiple outlet ports. The diverter uses a flow of fluid provided by a pump to switch between different outlet ports. In a dishwashing appliance, fluid from the pump that supplies one or more spray assemblies can be used to cause the diverter to switch between different fluid outlets and e.g., different spray assemblies. A separate motor to power the diverter is not required, which allows a savings in costs and space.