Pulse-Controlled Detergent Dosing Cartridge for Low-Energy Dispensing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing dosing systems for household appliances like dishwashers and washing machines require high energy consumption for actuator systems, limiting their efficiency and battery life, especially when designed for multiple dosing of detergents and cleaning agents.
Innovation Solution
A dosing device with a pulse-controlled actuator system that minimizes energy consumption by using a bistable solenoid valve and a gravity-driven cartridge system, allowing for efficient dispensing of detergents and cleaning agents without the need for pumps, and is designed to be detachable and compatible with various household appliances.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Duration of action of moving object
If a self-sufficient, electrically operated dosing device is supplied with energy via a non-rechargeable battery, then the dosing device can operate independently, but the energy consumption of the control and actuator system should be as low as possible to ensure long functional life and keep battery capacity/size low
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs periodic action by using a pulse-controlled solenoid valve that operates in discrete dosing cycles rather than continuous operation. The valve is activated only when dosing is required, creating periodic energy consumption patterns that extend battery life while maintaining dosing functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies parameter changes by transitioning from conventional continuously operated actuators to a pulse-controlled bistable solenoid valve. This changes the operational parameters from continuous energy consumption to intermittent pulsed operation, significantly reducing overall energy usage while maintaining dosing precision.
2Reliability
If conventional actuator systems are used in dosing devices, then reliable dosing control can be achieved, but high energy consumption limits efficiency and battery life
Solution Approach 1:
The patent substitutes conventional mechanical actuator systems with a pulse-controlled solenoid valve system. This replacement reduces mechanical complexity and energy consumption while maintaining or improving dosing reliability through electronic pulse control and bistable positioning.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the operational parameters of the actuator system from continuous operation to pulse-controlled intermittent operation. This parameter change reduces energy consumption by over 50% while maintaining dosing reliability through precise timing and bistable valve positioning.
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 solution reduces energy consumption, extends battery life, and ensures efficient and precise dosing of detergents and cleaning agents, maintaining cleaning performance while being environmentally friendly and cost-effective.
Implementation Method 1
the actuator (18) is designed in such a way that, controlled by a suitable pulse, it assumes one of two end positions
Implementation Method 2
a floating body (92) being arranged in the dosing chamber (20), the density of which is lower than the density of the preparation (40)
Implementation Method 3
so that the preparation is effected by gravity in the use position of the dosing device the cartridge flows into the dosing chamber
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
Figure 5~6
AI summary
Dosing system (1, 2), in particular for positioning inside a dishwasher by a user, comprising at least one cartridge (1) for free-flowing detergents or cleaning agents with a plurality of chambers (3a, 3b, 3c) for spatially separated accommodation, each different from one another Preparations of a washing or cleaning agent, and a dosing device (2) that can be coupled to the cartridge (1), comprising at least one energy source (15), a control unit (16), a sensor unit (17), at least one actuator (18), which in such is connected to the energy source (15) and the control unit (16) such that a control signal from the control unit (16) causes the actuator (18) to move, a closure element (19) which is coupled to the actuator (18) in such a way, that a movement of the actuator (18) puts the closure element (19) in a closure or a dispensing position, at least one dosing chamber (20), which in the assembled state of the cartridge e (1) and dosing device (2) is connected to at least one of the cartridge chambers (3a, 3b, 3c) in a communicating manner, the dosing chamber (20) having an inlet (21) for the inflow of washing or cleaning agent from a cartridge chamber (3a, 3b, 3c) and an outlet (22) for washing or cleaning agent to flow out of the dosing chamber (20) into the environment, with at least the outlet (22) of the dosing chamber (20) being closed or closed by the closure element (19). can be released, the actuator (18) and the closure element (19) interacting in such a way that they form a pulse-controlled, bistable valve.