Rotatable Nozzle Water Supply for Multi-Channel Detergent Dispensers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing washing machines have a complex and large detergent supply apparatus due to the need for multiple solenoid valves and hoses, which generates resonance noise and requires a cumbersome structure to supply water to different detergent channels.
Innovation Solution
A water supply apparatus with a rotatable nozzle and a drive unit that includes gears and a rotation control device, allowing the nozzle to efficiently distribute warm and cold water to multiple channels through a simplified structure, reducing the number of hoses and noise.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple solenoid valves and rubber hoses are used to supply water to different detergent channels, then water can be supplied to each channel, but the structure becomes complicated and large in size
Solution Approach 1:
A single water supply apparatus with a rotatable nozzle assembly performs the function of multiple solenoid valves and hoses. The nozzle can rotate to align with different detergent channels (main detergent, fabric softener, bleach channels) and supply water selectively, making one device perform multiple water supply functions that previously required separate components for each channel.
Solution Approach 2:
The nozzle assembly is made rotatable rather than fixed, allowing it to dynamically change its orientation to supply water to different channels. The rotation mechanism enables the single nozzle to access multiple channels sequentially, replacing the need for multiple fixed nozzles and associated solenoid valves connected by hoses.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple solenoid valves are used to control water flow to different channels, then water distribution is achieved, but resonance noise is generated
Solution Approach 1:
The solenoid valves are completely removed from the system and replaced by a mechanically rotated nozzle assembly controlled by a drive unit. This extraction of the noisy solenoid valves eliminates the source of resonance noise while maintaining the capability to control water flow to different channels through the rotating nozzle's positioning.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a plurality of rubber hoses are used to connect solenoid valves to detergent channels, then water can reach each channel, but the apparatus requires large space
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple water supply functions that were previously distributed across several hoses connected to different solenoid valves are merged into a single water supply line connected to the rotatable nozzle. The nozzle's rotation capability allows one hose to reach multiple channels, consolidating the space required for water supply infrastructure.
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 simplifies the detergent supply apparatus structure, reduces noise, and effectively supplies water to all channels using a compact design, enhancing the operational efficiency and stability of the washing machine.
Implementation Method 1
The drive unit may further include a plurality of gears disposed between the motor and the nozzle to transmit drive force of the motor to the nozzle.
Data Source
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AI summary
Disclosed is a water supply apparatus (50) for washing machines (1) having a simplified structure. The water supply apparatus (50) is usable in a washing machine (1) , which has a drum (30) to accommodate laundry, and a detergent supply apparatus (50) including a dispenser (52) provided with a plurality of channels (521, 522, 523, 524) to supply water to a plurality of detergents to be supplied to the drum (30), and includes at least one water supply pipe (60) extending from the rear portion of the washing machine (1) to the detergent supply apparatus (50) to supply water to the dispenser (52), a nozzle (200) provided with one end connected to the at least one water supply pipe (60) and the other end disposed adjacent to entrances of the plurality of channels (521, 522, 523, 524), and being rotatable to supply water selectively to one of the plurality of channels (521, 522, 523, 524), a drive unit (100) generating drive force to rotate the nozzle (200), and a rotation control device (150) to control rotation of the drive unit (100).