Steam Generation Unit Rinsing to Prevent Washer Scale Buildup
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional steam washing machines face issues with calcic foreign matter accumulation in the steam generation unit, which reduces steam injection efficiency, leading to increased washing water and power consumption, and compromised washing quality.
Innovation Solution
A control method that involves discharging water from the steam generation unit during rinsing operations and passing washing water through the steam generation unit to prevent foreign matter accumulation, ensuring efficient steam generation and injection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If steam generation unit operates continuously to maintain washing quality, then washing quality is improved, but calcic foreign matter accumulates reducing steam efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary washing of the steam generation unit during the rinsing operation before the unit is needed for the next steam washing cycle. Water is supplied to the steam generation unit to wash away accumulated calcic foreign matter, preventing efficiency degradation before it occurs.
Solution Approach 2:
The steam generation unit washes itself using water supplied during the rinsing operation. The unit utilizes the available water resources in the system to clean its own components, eliminating the need for separate maintenance operations or additional water consumption dedicated solely to cleaning.
2Loss of energy
If water is supplied to wash steam generation unit during rinsing, then steam efficiency is improved, but water consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The water supplied during the rinsing operation serves dual purposes: it rinses the laundry in the drum and simultaneously washes the steam generation unit. This multi-functional use of water eliminates the need for separate water supplies for cleaning the steam generation unit, maintaining steam efficiency without increasing overall water consumption.
3Quantity of substance
If steam generation unit is not washed regularly, then water consumption is reduced, but foreign matter accumulation blocks steam supply
Solution Approach 1:
The washing of the steam generation unit is performed continuously during each rinsing operation, ensuring that foreign matter does not accumulate to blocking levels. This continuous maintenance action during routine operations prevents productivity degradation while using minimal additional water.
Solution Approach 2:
The rinsing water acts as an intermediary medium that performs dual functions: rinsing the laundry and washing the steam generation unit. This intermediary use of water during the rinsing phase enables maintenance of steam supply efficiency without requiring separate dedicated water supplies.
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 approach enhances steam efficiency, reduces washing water and power consumption, and maintains high washing quality by continuously washing the steam generation unit during rinsing operations.
Implementation Method 1
a heating part 210 for generating high-temperature hot air to evaporate water
Implementation Method 2
supply steam generated from the water evaporation into the tub 120 and/or the drum 130
Data Source
AI summary
A novel washing method that is capable of smoothly washing laundry with low washing water consumption and low power consumption is disclosed. The control method is applied to a washing machine having a steam generation unit. The control method comprising a step of discharging water out of the steam generation unit when a rinsing operation of the washing machine is carried out.