Detection system of washing machines removable basket and method for detection of washing machines removable basket
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current washing machines with removable baskets require manual user input to determine if the basket is coupled correctly, leading to potential operational issues and increased manufacturing costs due to the need for distinct filling and draining steps when the basket is used or not.
Innovation Solution
A detection system using sensors and excitation components, such as inductive, magnetic, or optical sensors, to automatically verify the presence and correct coupling of the removable washing basket before the washing process, ensuring proper operation and reducing manufacturing costs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual user input is used to determine basket coupling, then device complexity is reduced, but reliability deteriorates due to potential operational issues
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical verification with an automatic sensor-based detection system. The sensor (optical, magnetic, or capacitive) automatically detects the presence and position of the removable basket, eliminating the need for manual user input and thereby improving reliability without significantly increasing complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The detection system enables the washing machine to automatically verify basket coupling itself, without requiring user intervention. The sensor continuously monitors basket presence and provides feedback to the control unit, allowing the system to self-adjust operations based on detected conditions.
2Adaptability or versatility
If distinct filling and draining steps are implemented for removable basket usage, then adaptability is improved, but productivity deteriorates due to increased process time
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic process adjustment based on real-time sensor feedback. When the removable basket is detected, the control unit automatically modifies the washing program to include appropriate filling and draining steps. This dynamic adaptation ensures proper operation for different configurations without requiring fixed, time-consuming separate cycles.
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor provides continuous feedback to the control unit about basket presence and position. The control unit uses this feedback to automatically adjust operational parameters and program sequence, enabling the system to adapt to different basket configurations while maintaining efficient process timing through real-time decision-making.
3Ease of operation
If sensor-based automatic detection is implemented, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity increases due to additional components
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex manual verification procedures with simple sensor-based automatic detection. The sensor (optical, magnetic, or capacitive) requires minimal installation and integrates seamlessly with existing control systems, providing ease of operation without proportionally increasing overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The detection system is designed to be universally applicable to different basket configurations and washing machine models. The sensor and control unit can detect various basket types and positions, providing multi-functional capability that justifies the added complexity through enhanced operational flexibility and user convenience.
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 system allows for automatic verification of the removable basket's presence, preventing operational failures and simplifying the manufacturing process by ensuring the washing machine can adjust its operations accordingly, thus enhancing reliability and efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
A detection system using sensors and excitation components, such as inductive, magnetic, or optical sensors
Implementation Method 2
A detection system using sensors and excitation components, such as inductive, magnetic, or optical sensors
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a system for detecting washing machines removable basket, which comprises at least one washing basket (1) attached to the washing machine, at least one washing basket (2) removable from the washing machine and at least one structural component (3) attached to the washing machine. The system itself consists of at least one sensor (4) and at least one component (5) able to cause excitation in the sensor (4), wherein the sensor (4) can be physically associated to the structural component (3) attached to the washing machine and the component (5) can be physically associated with the washing basket (2) removable from the washing machine. Alternatively, the sensor (4) can be physically associated to the washing basket (2) removable from the washing machine and the component (5) may be physically associated to the structural component (3) attached to the washing machine. The subject method provides for at least one driving step of the motive source (6) and at least one checking step of the output signal of the sensor (4), the detection of the removable washing basket (2) being performed by checking the change of the output signal of the sensor (4).