Resonance Water-Level and Vibration Sensing for Washing Machines
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing washing machines require separate water-level and vibration detection apparatuses, which increases complexity, time, and cost, necessitating a solution for simultaneous detection of water level and vibration.
Innovation Solution
A water-level/vibration detection apparatus featuring a housing with a compression chamber, a bobbin, diaphragm, coil springs, and an elastic member that utilizes resonance circuit frequencies to detect water level and vibration changes, integrating both functions into a single apparatus.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If separate water-level detection apparatus and vibration detection apparatus are installed, then detection functions are complete, but device complexity and installation cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines water-level detection and vibration detection functions into a single integrated apparatus. The detection apparatus includes a diaphragm that responds to both water pressure (for water-level detection) and vibration (for vibration detection), along with a resonance circuit that can detect both types of signals. This merging eliminates the need for separate detection devices, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining complete detection functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The detection apparatus is designed with multi-functionality to perform both water-level detection and vibration detection using a single device. The resonance circuit can operate in different modes to detect either water level or vibration, making the apparatus universal and eliminating the need for multiple specialized devices.
2Measurement precision
If separate water-level detection apparatus and vibration detection apparatus are installed, then detection accuracy is maintained, but installation time and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
By merging water-level and vibration detection into one apparatus, the installation process is simplified to a single installation event rather than two separate installations. This reduces installation time while the integrated design maintains detection accuracy through specialized components for each function within the same device.
3Reliability
If separate water-level detection apparatus and vibration detection apparatus are installed, then detection coverage is complete, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates water-level and vibration detection functions into a single manufactured unit, allowing for economies of scale and reduced manufacturing costs compared to producing and assembling two separate devices. The shared housing, power supply, and control circuitry reduce overall manufacturing complexity and cost.
Solution Approach 2:
The multi-functional design allows a single manufacturing process to produce an apparatus that performs both detection functions, reducing the need for separate production lines and inventory management for multiple device types, thereby lowering overall manufacturing costs.
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
Enables accurate and simultaneous detection of water level and vibration, enhancing productivity and reliability of washing machine operations without additional vibration detection elements.
Implementation Method 1
a coil to create a resonance circuit is supported
Implementation Method 2
a diaphragm, both ends of which are supported by coil springs, the diaphragm having a support shaft to be moved in the bobbin based on a change in pressure within the compression chamber
Implementation Method 3
both ends of which are supported by coil springs
Implementation Method 4
an elastic member placed on the support shaft to elastically support the core, the elastic member having elastic restoration force less than that of the coil springs
Data Source
AI summary
A water-level/vibration detection apparatus includes a diaphragm adapted to be moved by air pressure applied through an air hose and a core slidably placed on a support shaft of the diaphragm while being elastically supported by an elastic member. The water-level/vibration detection apparatus detects the level of water and vibration via movement of the core into a coil which constitutes a resonance circuit.