Washer Device With Integrated Steam Generator for Liquid Heating
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing washer devices with steam generators operate independently from other components, limiting their functionality and increasing complexity and production costs, while also requiring additional control processes and an additional heater for heating the washing liquid.
Innovation Solution
A washer device design that integrates the steam generator to operate in conjunction with other components, allowing it to heat the washing liquid and generate steam, eliminating the need for a separate heating unit and simplifying the control processes by using a direct connection between the steam generator and the collection chamber for continuous heating and steam supply.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the steam generator operates independently from the water control systems, then the steam generator can function autonomously, but the functionality of the washer device is restricted and additional control processes are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the steam generator with the water control system by connecting it to the circulation system. The steam generator receives water from the circulation system and returns heated water or steam to the washing chamber, allowing coordinated operation between the steam generator and water control systems while maintaining autonomous steam generation capability
Solution Approach 2:
The steam generator is designed to serve multiple functions: it can operate autonomously to generate steam, and it can also work in conjunction with the water control system to heat washing liquid. This multi-functionality resolves the contradiction by allowing the system to adapt its operation mode based on washing requirements
2Adaptability or versatility
If two different lines are used to supply washing water to the steam generator, then the steam generator can receive water from different sources, but the complexity and production cost of the dishwasher increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the water supply paths by using a single circulation system that collects water from the washing chamber bottom and redirects it through the steam generator. This eliminates the need for separate water supply lines while maintaining the ability to supply water from different operational sources
Solution Approach 2:
The circulation system is designed to serve multiple purposes: it collects washing liquid, supplies it to the steam generator, and returns heated liquid to the washing chamber. This multi-functional design provides water supply flexibility without requiring additional dedicated lines
3Adaptability or versatility
If the steam generator is integrated with the water control system, then the functionality and reliability of the washer device is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the steam generator with existing water control components by connecting it to the circulation system's water collection and redistribution pathways. This merging approach enhances functionality by allowing coordinated operation while utilizing existing infrastructure to minimize additional 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 integration enhances the cleaning efficiency of highly soiled articles, reduces production costs, and provides a reliable washing process even if the heating unit fails, by using the steam generator to heat the washing liquid and generate steam, thus improving the overall functionality and reliability of the washer device.
Implementation Method 1
liquid (i.e. mains water) received from a liquid source (i.e. water mains) is heated and converted into steam
Implementation Method 2
liquid (i.e. mains water) received from a liquid source (i.e. water mains) is heated and converted into steam
Implementation Method 3
The washing liquid may be heated, when required, during the said circulation process
Data Source
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AI summary
The washer device (M) of the present invention comprises at least one washing chamber (1) wherein the articles to be washed are placed and the washing process is performed; at least one washing liquid inlet (2) through which washing liquid for washing and/or rinsing processes is received; at least one collection chamber (3) which is located under the washing chamber (1) and wherein the washing liquid received from the washing liquid inlet (2) is collected; at least one washing liquid outlet (4) which is connected with the said collection chamber (3) and which discharges the liquid collected in the collection chamber (3) at the end of the washing and/or rinsing process; and at least one steam generator (5) which heats the washing liquid received from the said washing liquid inlet (2) and/or collection chamber (3) and supplies it into the washing chamber (1) through at least one steam inlet (6) connected with the washing chamber (1).