Compact Steam Generator Sealing for Drum Washing Machines
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional drum-type washing machines with steam generators face space limitations due to large sheath heaters with low power density, and existing sealing methods are inefficient and difficult to implement, leading to water leakage issues.
Innovation Solution
A compact steam generator design featuring a plate heater with a sealing member and pressure part to prevent water leakage, where the sealing member is positioned between the heater and the case, and the pressure part presses the sealing member to secure the heater, allowing for simultaneous sealing of the heater and case, enhancing heating capacity and reducing manufacturing costs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If a sheath heater is used in the steam generator, then the heater can be installed within the case, but the heater has low power density and requires a large size to produce sufficient steam
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the heater type from a sheath heater to a plate heater, fundamentally altering the heating element's physical parameters. The plate heater has higher power density compared to the sheath heater, enabling it to produce the required steam volume with a smaller footprint, thus resolving the contradiction between heating capacity and heater size.
2Power
If a plate heater is used to increase power density, then the heating capacity is improved, but separate sealing of the heater and case is required which is difficult and reduces work efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the sealing functions into a single integrated process. The sealing member is designed to simultaneously seal both the heater and the case in one operation, eliminating the need for separate sealing steps. This integration simplifies the manufacturing process and improves work efficiency while maintaining the benefits of the plate heater's high power density.
3Power
If the steam generator volume is increased to accommodate a larger sheath heater, then the heater can produce sufficient steam, but the space available for installation in the washing machine is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the heater configuration from a voluminous sheath heater to a compact plate heater with superior power density. This parameter change allows the steam generator to achieve the required steam production capacity in a significantly reduced volume, making it suitable for installation in space-constrained washing machine environments.
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 compact steam generator design increases work efficiency, reduces manufacturing costs, and improves the utility of space within the washing machine by providing effective sealing and enhanced heating capacity without significant space occupation.
Implementation Method 1
a heater provided within the case... The sheath heater 4d heats the water
Implementation Method 2
a pressure part for pressing the sealing member and the heater
Implementation Method 3
a sealing member for preventing water leakage from the case, wherein the sealing member seals the heater to prevent water from penetrating through a circuit part of the heater
Data Source
AI summary
A steam generator includes a case that forms a predetermined space for storing water, a heater provided within the case, a sealing member for preventing water leakage from the case, and a pressure part to press the sealing member and the heater. The sealing member is also configured to secure and seal the heater such that water is prevented from penetrating or leaking toward a circuit part of the heater. A drum-type washing machine having the steam generator installed therein is also disclosed.