Method for controlling washing machine
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional washing machines have limitations in evenly applying detergent to laundry, particularly the upper portions, leading to longer washing times and inefficient detergent distribution, which prolongs the overall washing process.
Innovation Solution
A control method for a washing machine that supplies detergent with water into an inner tub and uses a pump to transfer the detergent-water mixture to multiple nozzles above the tub, operating the pump while the tub rotates to ensure even distribution and penetration of detergent through centrifugal force, allowing for adjustable water levels and pump speeds to optimize detergent application.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If water is continuously supplied through the dispenser to raise the water level, then the laundry is sufficiently wetted, but the detergent does not penetrate smoothly to the upper laundry and the washing time becomes long
Solution Approach 1:
The circulation system is divided into multiple circulation pipes, each equipped with separate nozzles positioned at different locations within the inner tub. This segmentation allows detergent-water mixture to be delivered to multiple zones simultaneously, ensuring uniform distribution throughout the laundry load without requiring extended soaking time.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a single-point water supply (dispenser at one location) to multi-point spray distribution through nozzles positioned at various heights and locations. This spatial dimensionality change enables detergent to reach upper laundry portions directly through spray action, eliminating the need for prolonged water level raising and soaking.
2Ease of operation
If a circulation system with a single nozzle is used, then water is recirculated, but the laundry cannot be evenly washed
Solution Approach 1:
The circulation system is segmented into multiple independent circulation pipes, each with its own nozzle. This segmentation transforms a single-point delivery system into a multi-point distribution network, enabling uniform detergent application across the entire laundry load while maintaining circulation efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The circulation system is designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously: it circulates water, distributes detergent, sprays water onto laundry from multiple angles, and maintains water flow continuity. This multi-functionality achieves even laundry washing without proportionally increasing system 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 method ensures uniform detergent application to both upper and lower laundry portions, reduces washing time, and decreases power consumption by eliminating the need for a separate soaking process, while also widening the spray range of circulating water.
Implementation Method 1
operates a pump to transfer the water supplied together with the detergent to a plurality of nozzles disposed above the inner tub
Implementation Method 2
the inner tub may rotate so that laundry contained in the inner tub adheres to an inner surface of the inner tub by centrifugal force during the operation of the pump
Data Source
AI summary
A method of controlling a washing machine of the present invention includes the steps of: (a) supplying detergent contained in a dispenser together with water into an inner tub; (b) operating a pump to transfer the water supplied together with the detergent to a plurality of nozzles disposed above the inner tub; and (c) further supplying water into the inner tub, operating the pump while the water is being supplied, and rotating the inner tub so that laundry contained in the inner tub adheres to an inner surface of the inner tub by centrifugal force during the operation of the pump.