Sensor-Activated Detergent Dosing for Multi-Stage Washing Machines
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional automatic dishwashers can only use one detergent composition per wash cycle, forcing consumers to choose between effective cleaning for enzyme-sensitive soils or hard-to-remove stains due to the incompatibility of enzymatic and hypohalite-based detergents, resulting in suboptimal performance on a range of stains.
Innovation Solution
A device with multiple chambers for different detergent compositions, activated by sensors to optimize dosing based on wash conditions, allowing for simultaneous use of enzymatic and hypohalite-based detergents at different times to address various stains and soils effectively.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple detergent compositions are used in one wash cycle, then cleaning performance on various stains is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The detergent dispensing system is segmented into multiple separate chambers (at least two chambers), each containing different detergent compositions (enzymatic and hypohalite-based). This segmentation allows each detergent type to be stored and dispensed independently, preventing incompatibility issues while enabling both to be used in a single wash cycle for comprehensive stain removal.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary action by pre-filling multiple chambers with different detergent compositions before the wash cycle begins. The control system is pre-programmed with dosing schedules that sequence the release of different detergents at appropriate times during the wash cycle, ensuring optimal performance without requiring complex real-time decisions during operation.
2Adaptability or versatility
If enzymatic and hypohalite-based detergents are used together, then cleaning performance on all stain types is improved, but detergent compatibility deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system physically segments incompatible enzymatic and hypohalite-based detergents into separate chambers, preventing direct contact and chemical incompatibility. Each chamber maintains the stability and effectiveness of its specific detergent composition while the system orchestrates their sequential or simultaneous dosing into the wash water where they can work together without interfering with each other's chemical stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The wash water acts as an intermediary medium that receives doses from both detergent chambers. By dosing the detergents into the shared wash environment rather than mixing them in storage, the system allows both detergent types to function effectively without direct interaction that would cause incompatibility, while still achieving comprehensive cleaning performance.
3Reliability
If detergents are dosed at different times, then detergent compatibility is maintained, but dosing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control system is pre-programmed with dosing schedules that specify when each chamber should release its detergent during the wash cycle. This preliminary programming simplifies the dosing process by automating the timing sequences, maintaining detergent compatibility through proper sequencing without requiring complex real-time control decisions during operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates sensors that monitor wash conditions (such as water temperature, cycle stage, and soil levels) and provide feedback to the control system. This feedback enables the control system to adjust dosing timing and amounts optimally, maintaining detergent compatibility while adapting to actual wash conditions, thereby managing dosing complexity through intelligent control rather than fixed rigid sequences.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention provides a method of dispensing a plurality of treating compositions into a multistage automatic washing machine, as well as a dispensing device comprising an associated reservoir for collection of wash liquor and at least two chambers containing a treating composition. Said chambers are activated in response to an input from a sensor.