Washing machine and control method of same

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing washing machines lack the ability to automatically detect and supply the appropriate type of detergent based on the laundry type, leading to inefficient washing processes when preset detergents are not used or when incorrect detergents are inputted.

Innovation Solution

A washing machine equipped with a detergent supply device that includes multiple cartridges, an electrode sensor to detect the conductivity of additives, and a controller that determines the type of additive by comparing detected values with stored data, allowing for automatic selection and input of suitable detergents based on the washing course.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If a detergent sensor is installed to detect the amount of detergent, then the detergent level can be monitored, but the type of detergent cannot be detected

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedetergent level detectionVSAvoiddetergent type detection

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The electrode sensor is designed to perform multiple functions: it detects both the amount of detergent through conductivity measurements and the type of detergent through comparative analysis of conductivity values. This multi-functional approach resolves the contradiction by enabling the same sensor to provide both level monitoring and detergent identification capabilities.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The system utilizes conductivity as a measurable parameter that varies with both detergent concentration (amount) and detergent composition (type). By measuring conductivity and comparing it against stored reference values, the system can distinguish between different detergent types while also determining the current detergent level, thus resolving the limitation of single-parameter detection.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

2Ease of operation

If the user manually inputs detergent type, then the washing machine can select appropriate detergent, but the system cannot automatically adapt when preset detergent is not used or incorrect detergent is inputted

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvemanual detergent inputVSAvoidautomatic detergent selection

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSExtent of automation

Solution Approach 1:

The washing machine automatically detects the detergent type present in the drum by measuring conductivity and comparing it with stored reference values. This self-service capability eliminates the need for manual detergent type input and enables the system to automatically adapt to the actual detergent being used, resolving the contradiction between manual operation and automatic selection.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The system continuously monitors detergent conductivity during the washing process and uses this feedback to identify the detergent type. This real-time detection and comparison mechanism provides automatic feedback that allows the washing machine to adjust its operation based on the actual detergent being used, rather than relying solely on preset user inputs.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #23Feedback

3Adaptability or versatility

If multiple detergent containers are used, then various types of detergents can be stored, but the system cannot automatically identify which detergent is in which container

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvemultiple detergent storageVSAvoiddetergent type identification

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of information

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces manual labeling or mechanical identification systems with an electrical measurement system. By using electrode sensors to measure conductivity and automatically comparing the measured values with stored reference data, the system can automatically identify detergent types in multiple containers without requiring manual input or physical labels, thus resolving the information loss problem.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

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

Ensures the appropriate detergent is automatically selected and inputted for the washing process, even if the user does not pre-select it, enhancing washing efficiency and effectiveness.

Implementation Method 1

a sensor which detects a type of additive contained in the plurality of cartridges... The sensor may be an electrode sensor that detects the conductivity of the additive

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElectrical Conductivity: Conduction (electrical)

Data Source

PatentUS11505889B2Washing machine and control method of same

Publication Date: 2022.11.22 LG ELECTRONICS INC

AI summary

The present disclosure relates to a washing machine and a control method of the same. The washing machine includes: a detergent supply device which supplies a liquid additive to the tub; and a controller which controls the operation of the detergent supply device. The detergent supply device includes: a plurality of cartridges which contain the additive respectively; an electrode sensor which detects conductivity of the additive contained in the plurality of cartridges; and a pump which extracts the additive contained in the cartridge. The controller determines a type of additive contained in the cartridge based on a detection value of the electrode sensor.