Washer Detergent Drawer Layout Below the Laundry Opening
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional laundry treatment apparatuses require users to inconveniently lift detergent over the laundry entrance hole to supply it to the detergent supply unit, which is located above the entrance.
Innovation Solution
The apparatus includes a detergent supply unit positioned under the laundry entrance hole, with multiple storage portions and a water supply system that guides water to these portions, allowing for efficient detergent distribution directly to the tub, reducing the need for user intervention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the detergent supply unit is located over the laundry entrance hole, then the detergent can be supplied to the tub, but the user has to lift the detergent over the laundry entrance hole inconveniently
Solution Approach 1:
The detergent supply unit is inverted from its conventional position above the laundry entrance hole to a position below it. This inversion allows detergent to be stored at a lower height, eliminating the need for users to lift detergent overhead, while still enabling effective supply to the tub through redesigned water and detergent flow paths
2Length of stationary object
If the detergent supply unit is located under the laundry entrance hole, then the storage height is lowered, but the water supply path becomes more complex with multiple paths and intersections
Solution Approach 1:
The water supply system is segmented into multiple distinct paths (first path, second path, third path) that diverge from a common water supply unit. Each path independently delivers water to different storage portions, allowing the system to manage complexity through modular, organized flow channels rather than a single complex route
3Productivity
If multiple storage portions are provided for detergent, then the detergent distribution efficiency is improved, but the device complexity increases with multiple paths and valves
Solution Approach 1:
The distribution valve serves multiple functions: it controls water flow to different storage portions, manages the intersection of water paths, and coordinates detergent supply timing. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate control mechanisms for each storage portion, balancing enhanced distribution efficiency with manageable system 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
This configuration lowers the storage height of detergent, eliminating the inconvenience of lifting detergent and improving user experience by allowing for easier detergent supply directly to the tub.
Implementation Method 1
a first path configured to guide the water supplied by the water supply unit to the first storage portion; a second path configured to guide the water supplied by the water supply unit to the second storage portion and crossing the first path
Data Source
AI summary
There is disclosed a laundry treatment apparatus including, a cabinet comprising a laundry entrance hole configured to load laundry into the cabinet, a tub provided in the cabinet and configured to store washing water therein, the tub comprising a tub hole in communication with the laundry entrance hole, a drum rotatably provided in the tub and configured to receive the laundry loaded via the tub hole, a detergent supply unit provided under the laundry entrance hole, in communication with the tub, and configured to store detergent therein, and a water supply unit configured to supply water to the detergent supply unit.