Vertical Steam Generator Layout for Washer Vibration Constraints
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing steam generators for washing machines are difficult to mount and prone to damage due to their rectangular shape and limited space, leading to interference and vibration issues, and they require improvements in water consumption, energy efficiency, and steam generation time.
Innovation Solution
A steam generator design with a water chamber having a vertical length greater than its horizontal length, a sloped or fixed horizontal length, and a heater mounted vertically, along with a water level sensor positioned away from the discharge opening and housed in a protective structure, to facilitate easier mounting and improve performance by reducing size and enhancing steam generation efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the steam generator is mounted in the limited space between the tub and cabinet, then the washing machine can achieve steam washing function, but the steam generator is prone to interference and vibration damage due to rectangular shape and tight space
Solution Approach 1:
The steam generator changes from a traditional horizontal rectangular shape to a vertical cylindrical shape, utilizing the vertical dimension of the limited space between the tub and cabinet. This dimensional change allows the steam generator to fit in the available space while the cylindrical shape inherently reduces interference and vibration damage compared to rectangular forms.
2Ease of operation
If the water chamber has greater vertical length than horizontal length, then the steam generator is easier to mount in limited space, but the water chamber volume may be reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The water chamber adopts a vertical orientation with greater height than width, utilizing the vertical space between the tub and cabinet more effectively. This vertical arrangement makes the steam generator easier to mount in the limited space while the cylindrical shape optimizes volume utilization within the constrained dimensions.
3Productivity
If the heater is mounted vertically in the water chamber, then the steam generation efficiency is improved, but the mounting structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The heater is mounted vertically on the inner wall of the cylindrical water chamber, utilizing the vertical dimension for heat transfer. This vertical mounting orientation improves steam generation efficiency by maximizing contact with the water in the vertical flow pattern, while the simple cylindrical structure keeps the mounting relatively straightforward.
4Reliability
If the water level sensor is positioned away from the discharge opening with protective housing, then sensor malfunction is prevented, but the sensor positioning and housing structure become more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The water level sensor is extracted from the discharge opening area and positioned at a different location on the water chamber wall, away from the high-velocity steam and water flow. A protective housing is provided to shield the sensor. This separation prevents sensor malfunction caused by direct exposure to discharge conditions, while the protective housing adds minimal structural complexity.
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 new design allows for easier mounting and improved performance by reducing water consumption and steam generation time, preventing reverse flow and sensor malfunctions, and ensuring safety through a safety valve, while minimizing interference and vibration.
Implementation Method 1
a water chamber for holding water, the water chamber having a heater mounted thereto for heating the water
Implementation Method 2
a steam chamber for holding steam generated as the water is heated
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a steam generator and a washing machine therewith. The present invention provides a steam generator including a water chamber for holding water actually, the water chamber having a heater mounted thereto for heating the water, and a steam chamber for holding steam generated as the water is heated actually, wherein the water chamber has a vertical direction length (a vertical length) relatively greater than a horizontal direction length (a horizontal length).