Dishwasher Pump Feedback for Storage Container Overflow Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing water-conducting household appliances, such as dishwashers, face challenges in detecting when a storage container is full, leading to inefficient liquid distribution and potential overflow, as they rely on manual switches or complex sensors.
Innovation Solution
A method involving monitoring the operating parameters of the circulation pump, specifically the electric current or power output, to determine when the storage container is full by setting threshold values, allowing for automated termination of the filling process and preventing overflow.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manual switches or complex sensors are used to detect when the storage container is full, then the detection accuracy is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The circulation pump monitors its own operating parameters (current consumption, power output) to detect when the storage container is full. The pump essentially monitors itself, eliminating the need for external sensors or switches.
Solution Approach 2:
The control device continuously monitors the operating parameters of the circulation pump and uses this feedback information to determine when the storage container has reached its maximum capacity, automatically terminating the filling process.
2Measurement precision
If additional switches or sensors are installed to detect full storage container, then the measurement precision is improved, but the manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The circulation pump serves dual functions: it circulates liquid and simultaneously acts as a sensor by monitoring its own operating parameters to detect when the storage container is full. This eliminates the need for separate detection components.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses the existing circulation pump's operational data to perform the detection function, rather than adding separate detection hardware, thereby reducing manufacturing costs.
3Productivity
If the storage container is continuously filled without monitoring, then the productivity is improved, but the loss of substance increases due to overflow
Solution Approach 1:
The control device receives continuous feedback from the circulation pump's operating parameters and automatically terminates the filling process when the storage container is full, preventing overflow and liquid loss while maintaining continuous operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system detects the full state of the storage container before actual overflow occurs by monitoring changes in the circulation pump's operating parameters, allowing preventive termination of filling.
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
This method allows for accurate detection of a full storage container without additional switches, ensuring efficient liquid distribution and preventing overflow, thereby optimizing the operation of water-conducting household appliances.
Implementation Method 1
a circulation pump for delivering the liquid to the spraying device
Implementation Method 2
an electric motor for driving the circulation pump
Implementation Method 3
a storage container connected in a heat-conducting manner to the washing compartment for the purpose of provisioning liquid that is to be used in a subsequent subprogram
Data Source
AI summary
A method for operating a water-conducting household appliance having a storage container which is connected by means of an overflow outlet in a liquid-conducting manner to a washing compartment and having a pump which is connected in the liquid-conducting manner to the washing compartment. The method includes starting the pump; filling the storage container with a liquid; monitoring a first operating parameter associated with the pump after the pump has been started; and terminating the filling of the storage container with the liquid when the first operating parameter reaches a predefined threshold value and/or the first operating parameter exceeds a predefined fluctuation range.