Portable Collapsible Washer and Dryer for Small-Load Laundry

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional washing machines and dryers are large, energy-intensive appliances that are not suitable for small loads and are often inaccessible to travelers or those without dedicated laundry space, making it burdensome to wash and dry clothes without resorting to hand washing or costly laundry services.

Innovation Solution

A portable apparatus comprising a collapsible washing unit with a securable cover, washing compartment with grooves, and a coupled drying unit with a fan and heating assembly, allowing for compact and energy-efficient washing and drying of clothes, which can be easily transported and used without permanent installation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If conventional washing machines and dryers are used, then washing and drying capacity is sufficient for large loads, but the appliances are large in size and require permanent installation

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveportability and adaptability to different locationsVSAvoidappliance size

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSVolume of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The washing machine is divided into separate functional modules: a collapsible washing compartment, a separate drying compartment, a control unit, and a power unit. This segmentation allows each component to be compact and easily stored when not in use, while still providing complete washing and drying functionality when assembled.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The washing compartment is designed to be collapsible rather than rigid, allowing it to be compressed to a small size for storage and transportation. The dynamic structure expands to full size during operation, providing sufficient washing capacity when needed.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

2Productivity

If conventional washing machines and dryers are used, then washing and drying functionality is complete, but energy consumption is high

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvewashing and drying efficiencyVSAvoidelectricity consumption

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The traditional mechanical drum rotation for washing is replaced with a manual agitation system where the user physically moves and rubs clothes against the washing compartment walls. This eliminates the need for a large electric motor, significantly reducing energy consumption while maintaining effective washing action.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The single electric motor in conventional systems that performs multiple functions (drum rotation, water pumping, heating) is replaced with separate, simpler components: manual agitation for washing, a small pump for water circulation, and a compact heating element. This multi-functionality approach reduces overall energy consumption.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Adaptability or versatility

If conventional washing machines and dryers are used, then large load capacity is achieved, but the appliances are not suitable for small loads or travelers

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesuitability for small loads and travelersVSAvoidoperational convenience

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The washing compartment volume can be adjusted by collapsing or expanding the flexible walls, allowing the user to optimize the space for small or large loads. This parameter change enables the same device to efficiently handle anything from a single shirt to a full week's worth of clothes.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

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 quick and efficient washing and drying of small loads, providing a convenient solution for travelers and those without access to conventional laundry facilities, while being energy-efficient and reducing the need for costly laundry services.

Implementation Method 1

a heating assembly coupled to the second dryer side wall of the drying unit

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectJoule heating: Joule Heating

Implementation Method 2

a fan assembly at the top dryer end and coupled to the drying compartment

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectForced convection: Forced Convection

Data Source

PatentUS11390982B1Portable washer and dryer

Publication Date: 2022.07.19 HAMMOND AARON

AI summary

A portable apparatus for washing and drying clothes, and a method of manufacturing said apparatus, are described. In one aspect an apparatus includes a washing unit and a drying unit. The washing unit includes a washing compartment configured to be collapsible, a water tube connected from a top washer end to a bottom washer end of the washing unit, a water hose extending from a side wall of the washing unit, and a wringer coupled to an end of the washing compartment. The drying unit includes a drying compartment, a power compartment, a fan assembly at the top dryer end and coupled to the drying compartment, a heating assembly, and an air vent. In one aspect the drying unit is coupled to the washing unit.