Steam Generator Water Supply Control Using Weight Sensing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fabric treatment appliances, such as washing machines, rely on pressure and electrical conduction sensors to control water supply to steam generators, which may not be economical, reliable, or elegant enough to ensure optimal steam generation and prevent damage.
Innovation Solution
A fabric treatment appliance using a weight sensor, potentially with a biasing member like a spring, to control water supply to a steam generator based on the weight of the steam generator, ensuring a predetermined water level is maintained, and a valve to regulate water flow.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If pressure sensors and electrical conduction sensors are used to control water supply, then water level control is achieved, but the system becomes more complex and less economical
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the water level detection function from complex pressure and electrical conduction sensors, isolating only the essential weight measurement capability. The float mechanism extracts buoyancy-based detection, simplifying the overall sensing system while maintaining control reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs inexpensive mechanical components (float, weight sensor, switch) instead of costly electronic sensors. These simpler mechanical elements are more economical and easier to replace, reducing system complexity while achieving the same water level control function.
2Device complexity
If weight sensor is used to control water supply, then system becomes more economical and simpler, but measurement precision must be sufficient to detect water level changes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a float as a counterweight element that provides mechanical leverage to amplify small weight changes. The float's buoyant force creates a counterbalancing effect that magnifies the weight difference caused by water level changes, enabling precise detection with simple mechanical switches.
Solution Approach 2:
The float acts as an intermediary between the water weight and the weight sensor. It converts subtle weight changes from water level variations into amplified mechanical motion that easily triggers the switch, bridging the gap between small physical changes and detectable signals.
3Productivity
If water supply is continuously monitored to maintain predetermined water level, then steam generation efficiency is improved, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic water supply control through the float-activated switch, which cycles the water inlet valve on and off based on water level. This periodic action maintains optimal water levels for steam generation without continuous energy-consuming monitoring, improving efficiency while reducing power consumption.
Solution Approach 2:
The float mechanism is self-actuating and requires no external power source. It automatically detects water level changes and triggers the water supply valve, making the system self-regulating. This eliminates the need for energy-consuming electronic sensors and control systems while maintaining steam generation efficiency.
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
This method provides a reliable and economical means to control water supply, ensuring the steam generator has a sufficient water level for efficient steam generation and preventing damage, while maintaining a consistent water level.
Implementation Method 1
a weight sensor outputting a signal responsive to the weight of the steam generator
Implementation Method 2
The biasing member can be positioned to apply a generally upward force to the steam generator. The biasing member can be a spring.
Implementation Method 3
The fabric treatment appliance can further comprise a valve fluidly coupled to the supply conduit to control the flow of water through the supply conduit.
Implementation Method 4
a steam generator configured to supply steam to the fabric treatment chamber and having a chamber configured to hold water
Data Source
AI summary
A fabric treatment appliance comprises a steam generator having a chamber configured to hold water, a supply conduit configured to transport water to the steam generator chamber, a weight sensor outputting a signal responsive to the weight of the steam generator, and a controller coupled to the weight sensor and configured to control a flow of water through the supply conduit based on the signal from the weight sensor. The disclosure provides methods of water supply control that can employ the weight sensor.