Multi-directional air distribution assembly for a dishwashing appliance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Dishwashing appliances experience incomplete and inconsistent air flow distribution during the drying cycle due to fixed air flow direction, leading to inefficient drying of articles in the wash chamber.
Innovation Solution
A rotatable diverter disk and dual inlets with a duct system that alternately direct air flow into the wash chamber in multiple directions, ensuring comprehensive coverage of articles by adjusting the air flow path in response to fan pressure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a fixed direction air flow assembly is used, then the device structure is simple, but the air flow distribution is incomplete and inconsistent
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a rotatable diverter disk that can change the air flow direction dynamically. The disk is configured to rotate between multiple positions (at least two positions) to redirect air flow across different articles in the wash chamber, transforming a static air distribution system into a dynamic one that adapts to provide more comprehensive coverage.
Solution Approach 2:
The air distribution system is segmented into multiple controllable elements: the diverter disk is divided into sectors with different air flow characteristics, and the system includes multiple inlets (first inlet and second inlet) that can be independently controlled. This segmentation allows different portions of air flow to be directed to different regions of the wash chamber.
2Productivity
If air flow direction is fixed, then the manufacturing cost is low, but the drying effectiveness is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The diverter disk is designed to rotate automatically in response to air flow from the fan without requiring an external actuator or control system. The air flow itself provides the force to rotate the disk to different positions, allowing the system to self-regulate and distribute air flow to multiple articles passively, thereby improving drying efficiency while avoiding complex active control mechanisms.
3Reliability
If a single inlet is used, then the structure is simple, but the air coverage of articles is incomplete
Solution Approach 1:
The air inlet system is segmented into multiple independent inlets: a first inlet connected to a first duct and a second inlet connected to a second duct. These multiple inlets are positioned to introduce air flow at different locations into the wash chamber, enabling more comprehensive coverage of articles when used in combination with the rotatable diverter disk.
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 solution provides improved air flow distribution, ensuring consistent and efficient drying of articles by alternating air flow directions, thereby enhancing the drying cycle's effectiveness.
Implementation Method 1
A fan is configured to urge air through the inlet
Implementation Method 2
The diverter disk is configured to rotate between the first position and the second position in response to a flow of air from the fan
Data Source
AI summary
A dishwashing appliance includes a tub defining a wash chamber. An inlet is defined in the tub and provides air flow into the wash chamber. A diverter disk is proximate the inlet and upstream of the wash chamber. The diverter disk is rotatable between a first position and a second position. The diverter disk permits air flow into the wash chamber via the inlet in a first direction when the diverter disk is in the first position and in a second direction when the diverter disk is in the second position.