Switchable Planetary Gear Assembly for Multi-Mode Drum Washing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional drum washing machines face limitations in washing efficiency and service life due to the high load on planetary gear mechanisms, which affects power transmission and longevity.
Innovation Solution
A drum washing machine design incorporating a planetary gear assembly that is switchable between two states, allowing for various washing modes by adjusting the rotational direction and speed of the agitator and drum, along with a water supply system that enhances laundry wetting and washing efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the planetary gear mechanism is used to drive the impeller, then the washing machine can achieve varied washing modes, but the load on the planetary gear mechanism increases, affecting power transmission and service life
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the agitator's rotational direction and speed variable through a switchable planetary gear assembly. The planetary gear mechanism can switch between different states to achieve varied washing modes (e.g., washing, rinsing, spinning) while maintaining reliable power transmission by dynamically adjusting the gear configuration rather than using a fixed high-load design.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the planetary gear mechanism is used to drive the impeller, then various washing modes can be achieved, but the power transmission effect deteriorates due to high load
Solution Approach 1:
The planetary gear assembly is designed to dynamically switch between different operational states, allowing the washing machine to achieve various washing modes while optimizing power transmission. By adjusting the gear configuration based on the required washing mode, the system maintains efficient power transmission even when driving the impeller, rather than operating at constant high load.
3Device complexity
If a single washing mode is used, then the device structure remains simple, but the washing effect deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic control of the agitator through the switchable planetary gear assembly, enabling multiple washing modes (washing, rinsing, spinning, etc.) that significantly improve washing effectiveness. This dynamic capability allows the system to adapt to different washing needs while maintaining a relatively compact and integrated device structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The planetary gear assembly serves multiple functions by switching between different states to enable various washing modes. This multi-functionality allows a single device to perform washing, rinsing, spinning, and other operations, improving overall washing effectiveness without requiring separate dedicated mechanisms for each function.
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 design achieves high washing efficiency, stable performance, and extended service life by reducing the load on the planetary gear assembly and improving laundry wetting and washing effectiveness through adjustable rotational modes and efficient water distribution.
Implementation Method 1
a planetary gear assembly (6) in transmission connection with the main shaft (31) and the agitator (4) and transmitting a torque of the main shaft (31) to the agitator (4)
Implementation Method 2
a water supply device in communication with one of the tub (1) and a water source as well as the agitator (4), supplying water in the tub (1) or the water source to the agitator (4)
Implementation Method 3
spraying the water into the drum through the water spray hole
Data Source
AI summary
A drum washing machine includes a tub; a drum rotatably arranged in the tub; an agitator rotatably arranged in the drum and having a water spray hole; a drive in transmission connection with the drum via a main shaft which transmits a torque of the driver to the drum; a planetary gear assembly in transmission connection with the main shaft and the agitator and transmitting a torque of the main shaft to the agitator; and a water supply device in communication with one of the tub and a water source as well as the agitator respectively, supplying water in the tub or the water source to the agitator, and spraying the water into the drum through the water spray hole.