Washing Machine Reed Sensor Layout for Reliable Door Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing reed sensors in washing machines face reliability issues due to prolonged magnetization, leading to incorrect door state detection and potential operational errors when the magnet deviates by a certain distance, affecting the machine's control and durability.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a plurality of reed sensors connected in series or parallel, disposed at varying distances from a magnet, with each sensor emitting an on- or off-signal based on the magnet's proximity, ensuring simultaneous reaction and reducing the likelihood of prolonged magnetization errors, and the use of a fixing member to absorb impact and maintain sensor alignment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a single reed sensor is used to detect door state, then the device complexity is low, but the reliability of detection is insufficient due to prolonged magnetization errors
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the detection function into multiple independent reed sensors (first reed sensor and second reed sensor) positioned at different distances from the magnet. Each sensor operates independently to detect door state, with the closer sensor having a shorter magnetization duration. This segmentation allows the system to achieve higher reliability through multiple detection points while managing complexity through modular sensor placement.
2Reliability
If multiple reed sensors are disposed at varying distances from the magnet, then the reliability of detection is improved by reducing prolonged magnetization errors, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by positioning reed sensors at different local distances from the magnet, creating varying magnetic field exposure conditions. The first reed sensor is placed closer to the magnet than the second reed sensor, giving each sensor distinct local characteristics. This allows the system to leverage the shorter magnetization duration of the closer sensor to trigger detection before prolonged magnetization occurs, improving reliability without requiring complex sensor networks.
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 configuration enhances the reliability of door state detection, prevents operational errors, and maintains sensor accuracy by ensuring all sensors recognize the door's opening or closing simultaneously, thus improving the overall control and durability of the washing machine.
Implementation Method 1
a plurality of reed sensors reacting to one magnet disposed in the door
Data Source
AI summary
A distance sensor and a washing machine including the distance sensor are provided. The washing machine may include a main body having a laundry loading hole formed therein, a door coupled to the main body, at a position corresponding to the laundry loading hole, and a plurality of reed sensors. The door may include a magnet disposed therein. The plurality of reed sensors provided in the main body and react to the magnet provided in the door to determine an open/closed state of the door.