Removable Dosing Control for Precise Dishwasher Detergent Timing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing dosing systems in household machines like dishwashers and washing machines face challenges in reliably dispensing cleaning agents due to varying program sequences and machine-specific operating processes, making it difficult to achieve optimal dosage based on measurement parameters.
Innovation Solution
A self-sufficient dosing device that uses sensors to detect program modes and operating parameters, allowing for timed and precise dosage control without direct machine control, using a cartridge with multiple chambers for different cleaning agents and a wireless transmission unit for communication with the household machine.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If a self-sufficient dosing device with sensors is used to detect program parameters and achieve optimal dosage, then the dosage precision is improved, but the device complexity increases due to multiple sensors and control elements
Solution Approach 1:
The dosing device is designed as a self-sufficient system with integrated sensors, control elements, and dosage mechanisms that can autonomously detect program parameters and execute dosing operations without requiring permanent installation or direct control from the household machine's control system
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor unit is designed to detect multiple different program parameters (such as temperature, humidity, time, or machine component states) using a single integrated sensor array, allowing the dosing device to adapt to various washing programs and machine types without requiring program-specific hardware
2Adaptability or versatility
If a self-sufficient dosing device is used that works independently of machine control, then the adaptability to different machine programs is improved, but the reliability of dosage control deteriorates due to difficulty in recognizing program sequences
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor unit continuously monitors program parameters and provides feedback to the control element, which adjusts the dosage timing and amount based on detected machine states, ensuring reliable dosing across different program sequences
Solution Approach 2:
The control element is pre-programmed with knowledge of typical program sequences and parameter patterns, allowing it to predict program status and dosing timing in advance based on sensor inputs, improving both adaptability and reliability
3Ease of operation
If permanent dosing systems are installed in household machines, then the ease of operation is improved, but the safety deteriorates due to risk of water or cleaning agents contacting live parts
Solution Approach 1:
The dosing device is extracted from the permanent installation and designed as a removable cartridge that can be easily inserted and removed by the user, maintaining ease of operation while eliminating safety risks associated with permanent electrical components in water-exposed environments
Solution Approach 2:
The dosing device is designed as a disposable or replaceable cartridge with a limited service life, eliminating the need for permanent installation and complex safety protections while maintaining user convenience through simple replacement rather than maintenance
Data Source
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AI summary
A household appliance, such as a dish washer, a washing machine or the like, comprising a program control for controlling program sequences for at least one operational parameter, such as the temperature, pH value or the like, and/or the operation of at least one machine component, such as spray arms, pumps or the like, characterized in that the program control comprises a program mode for the use of a metering device that is not permanently integrated into the household appliance, wherein the program sequence thereof is adapted for at least one operational parameter and/or at least one operation of at least one machine component to the ability of the sensor of a metering device that is not permanently integrated to control the metering on the basis of operational parameters and/or operations detected by the sensor.