Washing Machine Steam Backup Control for Tub Cleaning Continuity
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional washing machine tub assembly washing methods are inefficient, consuming large amounts of water and failing to effectively remove contaminants, leading to reduced washing efficiency and potential contamination issues.
Innovation Solution
An operation control method for a washing machine that uses high-temperature steam to wash the tub assembly, with a steam generation unit that can be interrupted and replaced by a washing heater or drying unit if abnormal, optimizing water usage and maintaining high temperatures to enhance cleaning efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If the conventional tub assembly washing method is used (submerging drum in washing water for long period), then the tub assembly can be washed, but a large amount of washing water is consumed and the washing time is very long
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the physical state and temperature parameters of the washing medium from cold water to high-temperature steam. The steam generation unit heats water to generate high-temperature steam that is supplied into the drum, enabling effective tub assembly washing with reduced water consumption and shorter time duration
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the conventional mechanical water-based washing system with a thermal steam-based system. Instead of using large volumes of water for mechanical washing, the invention uses high-temperature steam for thermal cleaning, thereby reducing water consumption and washing time
2Manufacturing precision
If the conventional tub assembly washing method is used, then washing can be performed, but the removal of contaminants is not effective
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the temperature parameter of the washing medium to high-temperature steam, which enhances the ability to remove contaminants and kill bacteria through thermal action, achieving effective contaminant removal without requiring large amounts of water
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes the phase transition of water to steam and the condensation of steam on the drum surface. The steam generation unit converts water to high-temperature steam, which then condenses on the cooler drum surfaces, creating effective cleaning through phase change and thermal transfer
3Quantity of substance
If the steam generation unit is used for tub assembly washing, then water consumption is reduced, but the system complexity increases and reliability may be affected
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates abnormal state detection and alternative operation modes beforehand. The control unit continuously monitors the steam generation unit for abnormal states and automatically switches to alternative washing modes (using washing heater or drying unit) when abnormalities are detected, ensuring system reliability and continuous operation
Solution Approach 2:
The patent designs the washing machine with multi-functional components that can serve multiple purposes. The washing heater and drying unit can alternatively perform tub assembly washing when the steam generation unit is abnormal, and these components can also serve their primary functions, thereby improving system reliability without adding dedicated backup systems
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 reduces water consumption and energy use while effectively removing contaminants, ensuring reliable operation even if the steam generation unit fails, thereby improving washing efficiency and product reliability.
Implementation Method 1
driving a steam generation unit having a steam heater to perform a steam operation for generating and supplying high-temperature steam into a drum
Implementation Method 2
generating and supplying high-temperature steam into the drum while rotating the drum; determining whether the interior temperature (T) of the drum has exceeded a predetermined temperature level (T1) due to the generation of the steam
Data Source
AI summary
A washing machine that is capable of providing a stable washing mode even when a washing-related device is abnormal during a washing operation is disclosed. When a steam generation unit, which generates high-temperature steam into a drum, is abnormal, the operation of the steam generation unit is interrupted, and an operation for driving a washing heater mounted in a tub is performed, or an operation for driving a drying unit, which supplies high-temperature dry hot air into the drum, is performed. A steam substituting algorithm is provided when the steam generation unit is abnormal during the operation using the high-temperature steam. Consequently, the interruption of the washing operation due to the abnormal steam injection function is prevented, and therefore, the reliability of the product is improved while the inconvenience of use is minimized.