Steam Dryer Course Control for Wrinkle and Odor Removal
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional dryers lack additional functions beyond drying, requiring users to perform separate processes for wrinkle removal, odor elimination, and energy efficiency, which complicates user interaction and increases energy consumption.
Innovation Solution
A dryer with a control panel and controller that allows users to select from various courses, including steam processes for moisture control, enabling crease removal, static electricity reduction, and odor elimination, while optimizing drying conditions based on detected dryness and laundry amount.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a conventional dryer is used for simple drying, then energy consumption is reduced, but additional functions for wrinkle removal and odor elimination cannot be performed
Solution Approach 1:
The dryer integrates multiple functions including drying, wrinkle removal, odor elimination, and refresh functions into a single device. The control panel provides various course selections (e.g., drying course, wrinkle removal course, odor removal course, refresh course) that can be independently chosen based on user needs, allowing the dryer to perform different operations without requiring separate appliances.
2Ease of operation
If multiple additional functions are added to the dryer, then convenience is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control panel is segmented into distinct course selection buttons for different functions (drying, wrinkle removal, odor removal, refresh). Each course is independently selectable and clearly labeled, allowing users to choose only the needed function without being overwhelmed by a complex unified interface. The controller processes each course selection separately with dedicated control logic.
3Adaptability or versatility
If steam process is used for wrinkle removal and odor elimination, then functionality is improved, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The steam generation is performed periodically rather than continuously. The controller activates the steam generator only during specific time intervals when steam is needed for wrinkle removal or odor elimination, then stops generation. This periodic operation reduces overall energy consumption compared to continuous steam generation while maintaining the effectiveness of steam-based functions.
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 dryer provides enhanced user convenience by integrating multiple functions, efficiently removing odors and preventing their recurrence, while optimizing energy use and reducing the need for additional ironing.
Implementation Method 1
a steam process for supplying steam into a drum
Data Source
AI summary
A laundry machine, particularly, a dryer using steam is disclosed. The laundry machine such as a washing machine, a dryer, a drying and washing machine is an apparatus which washes or dries articles such as clothes. The dryer includes a drum adapted to accommodate articles to be dried, a control panel adapted to provide an interface with a user, and a controller, wherein the control panel includes a course selection part which allows a user to select a specific course as an operation course during a steam course, which includes a steam process for supplying steam into a drum, such that the dried articles have a moisture content equal to or larger than 6%, and the controller controls an operation of the dryer to perform the selected operation course.