Method for controlling washing machine
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing washing machines with clutch systems for connecting and disconnecting washing and dewatering shafts face challenges in ensuring strength, reliability, and noise reduction, particularly when handling large loads and alternating rotations, due to the limitations of protrusion-based torque transmission and potential collisions.
Innovation Solution
A washing machine with a clutch system that is threadably coupled to the inner shaft and spline-coupled to the outer shaft, allowing precise control of the clutch's lifting range to prevent excessive movement and interference, thereby ensuring reliable connection and disconnection while minimizing noise and torque limitations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If protrusions are used to transmit torque between shafts, then the clutch structure is simplified, but the torque transmission capability and reliability are insufficient under large loads
Solution Approach 1:
The clutch is divided into multiple protrusions (first protrusion for engagement, second protrusion for disengagement) that work sequentially. This segmentation allows the clutch to handle torque transmission more reliably by distributing the load across multiple contact points rather than relying on a single protrusion interface.
Solution Approach 2:
The clutch acts as an intermediary mechanism between the washing shaft and dewatering shaft. By introducing this intermediate component with controlled engagement and disengagement features, the system achieves reliable torque transmission while maintaining simplified structure compared to direct mechanical coupling.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the washing shaft rotates alternately in both directions with the dewatering shaft stopped, then washing function is achieved, but noise frequently occurs due to collisions between protrusions
Solution Approach 1:
The clutch protrusions are designed to engage and disengage in a predetermined sequence before actual torque transmission begins. The first protrusion engages to prepare for torque transfer, and the second protrusion disengages to prevent collisions during direction changes, thereby eliminating noise before it occurs.
Solution Approach 2:
The clutch structure incorporates a cushioning mechanism where the protrusions gradually engage and disengage rather than making sudden impacts. This beforehand cushioning of the engagement process prevents collision noise during alternating rotations while maintaining the washing function.
3Device complexity
If the clutch is allowed to rotate freely with the shafts, then the structure is simple, but precise control of the clutch lifting range cannot be achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The control unit monitors the rotational position of the inner shaft and provides feedback control to regulate the clutch's lifting range. By measuring the actual position and comparing it with the desired position, the system adjusts the clutch engagement to achieve precise control while maintaining relatively simple structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex mechanical positioning mechanisms with a control system that uses rotational detection and electronic control to regulate clutch lifting. This substitution achieves precise control of the clutch range without requiring complex mechanical guides or stops.
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
The solution enables accurate control of the clutch's movement, preventing excessive rotation and noise, ensuring stable operation under varying loads and reducing the risk of clutch interference, thus enhancing the durability and quiet operation of the washing machine.
Implementation Method 1
a clutch (6) which is threadably coupled to the inner shaft (4)
Implementation Method 2
spline coupled to the outer shaft
Data Source
AI summary
A method of controlling a washing machine includes rotating a motor for driving an inner shaft in a first direction, and aligning a clutch to a reference position corresponding to one of a maximum lowered position and a maximum raised position. The motor is rotated by a preset reference alignment angle in a second direction to align the clutch from the reference position to a starting position corresponding to one of an upper limit and a lower limit of a preset agitating control section. The upper limit of the agitating control section is spaced downward by a first distance from the maximum raised position, and the lower limit of the agitating control section is spaced upward by a second distance from the maximum lowered position. The motor is rotated by a starting alignment angle set according to a displacement of the clutch ranging from the starting position to a target position corresponding to the other one of the upper limit and the lower limit so that the clutch is moved from the starting position to the target position.