Washer Extraction Control Using Motor Torque Leveling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current laundry treating appliances face inefficiencies in determining the optimal duration of the extraction phase, leading to prolonged cycle times and increased energy consumption, as they rely on fixed time periods for liquid removal rather than monitoring motor torque levels.
Innovation Solution
The method involves rotating the treating chamber at a first spin speed until motor torque levels off, then increasing to a higher spin speed if extraction is not complete, repeating this process until all beneficial liquid is removed, utilizing motor torque monitoring to determine extraction completion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If fixed time periods are used for extraction phase, then the extraction process is simple to control, but cycle times are prolonged and energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system continuously monitors motor torque during the extraction phase and uses this feedback to determine when liquid removal is complete. The controller detects torque leveling off as an indicator that extraction is finished, allowing dynamic adjustment of extraction duration based on actual load conditions rather than fixed timing, thereby reducing unnecessary cycle time while maintaining extraction efficiency
Solution Approach 2:
The extraction phase duration is made dynamic rather than static. The system adjusts the extraction time based on real-time motor torque characteristics, allowing the extraction process to adapt to varying laundry loads and moisture conditions, optimizing both productivity and time efficiency
2Productivity
If fixed time periods are used for extraction phase, then the control process is simple, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The controller uses real-time motor torque monitoring to detect when extraction is complete (when torque levels stabilize). This feedback mechanism allows the system to terminate the extraction phase at the optimal moment, preventing continued motor operation and energy consumption beyond what is necessary, thus reducing overall energy usage while maintaining extraction efficiency
Solution Approach 2:
The motor torque characteristics themselves provide the signal for extraction completion. The system leverages the natural torque behavior during extraction - as moisture is removed, the torque required to maintain spin speed changes and eventually stabilizes. This self-indicating property eliminates the need for separate sensors or complex detection systems, reducing energy consumption while achieving efficient extraction
3Measurement precision
If motor torque monitoring is implemented to determine extraction completion, then extraction precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The motor serves multiple functions: it performs the extraction operation and simultaneously provides the measurement signal through its torque characteristics. The existing motor controller is utilized to monitor torque, eliminating the need for separate measurement devices. This multi-functionality approach improves extraction completion detection accuracy while avoiding additional device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The motor's own operational characteristics (torque requirements during spin cycle) are used to determine extraction completion. The system exploits the natural relationship between motor torque and laundry moisture content, where torque stabilization indicates extraction completion. This self-service approach provides precise measurement without requiring external sensors or complex control 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 approach allows for more precise determination of liquid extraction completion, reducing energy consumption and cycle times by optimizing the extraction phase duration based on torque leveling.
Implementation Method 1
the drum is rotated at speeds high enough to impart a centrifugal force on the load great enough to hold (a/k/a 'plaster' or 'satellize') the load to the peripheral wall of the drum
Data Source
AI summary
A method and apparatus for monitoring a characteristic of a motor, such as the leveling of torque, for use in determining a duration of an extraction phase of a cycle of operation in a laundry treating appliance.