Washing Chamber Circulation Using One Pump for Liquid and Granules
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing washing machines require multiple pumps to circulate liquid and granular washing substances, leading to increased complexity and maintenance costs.
Innovation Solution
A machine with a single pump that selectively picks up both liquid and granular elements using valve-controlled compartments, allowing for reduced components and simplicity, with the granular elements being separated using the Venturi effect without passing through the pump.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple pumps are used to circulate liquid and granular washing substances separately, then the washing function is improved, but the device complexity and maintenance requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the functions of multiple pumps into a single pump that handles both liquid and granular washing substances. The pump is designed with a configuration that allows it to selectively circulate liquid through one outlet and granular material through another outlet, eliminating the need for separate pumping systems while maintaining effective washing functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The single pump is designed to perform multiple functions: it can circulate liquid washing substance, circulate granular washing substance, and switch between these functions using a valve mechanism. This multi-functional design reduces the overall number of components while preserving the ability to effectively wash objects with different types of washing substances.
2Reliability
If multiple pumps are used to handle liquid and granular elements, then the washing effectiveness is improved, but the maintenance costs and operational complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
By merging the pumping functions into a single unit, the patent reduces the number of components that require maintenance. The single pump design with integrated valve mechanism eliminates the need to maintain multiple separate pumps, thereby reducing maintenance costs and operational complexity while preserving washing effectiveness.
3Device complexity
If granular elements pass through the pump, then the circulation is simplified, but the pump complexity and maintenance requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the circulation paths for liquid and granular materials, allowing them to be handled separately even within a single pump system. The valve mechanism directs granular elements through a specific path that minimizes their interaction with sensitive pump components, reducing wear and maintenance requirements while maintaining circulation efficiency.
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 design reduces the number of components, minimizes maintenance, and enhances the concentration of granular elements in the washing solution, resulting in a more reliable and cost-effective washing process.
Implementation Method 1
valve means associated both with the first and also with the second compartment which, in cooperation with the pump, are able to be activated to determine the pick-up from each compartment
Implementation Method 2
The connection element defines, in cooperation with the liquid taken in by the pump, a depression able to pick up the granular elements and the liquid contained in the second compartment, according to the so-called Venturi effect
Data Source
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AI summary
Machine (10) for washing objects (12) comprising at least a washing chamber (16) in which the objects (12) to be washed are able to be disposed, pumping members (18) able to make a washing substance (20) circulate, consisting at least of a liquid (22) and of granular elements (24), and delivery members (26) connected to the pumping members (18) and able to deliver the washing substance (20) to the objects (12). The washing chamber (16) comprises a first compartment (30) able to contain the liquid (22), and a second compartment (32) able to contain the granular elements (24) together with the liquid (22). The pumping members comprise a pump (18) able to selectively and/or simultaneously pick up both the liquid (22) and also the granular elements (24), in order to put them into circulation towards the delivery members (26).