Washing Machine Detergent Dosing With User-Adjustable Settings
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Solution Overview
Problem
Users cannot visually determine or control the pouring amount of laundry detergent in washing machines with automatic pouring functions, leading to unsatisfied requirements and interruptions in the washing process.
Innovation Solution
A method where the washing machine calculates and displays the initial pouring amount based on user inputs, allowing users to adjust it by setting variables, and then recalculates and displays the adjusted amount, enabling precise pouring according to user needs, with the option to confirm the adjusted amount before proceeding with the wash cycle.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If the washing machine uses automatic pouring function with computer board control, then the pouring amount is determined automatically, but users cannot visually watch or control the specific pouring amount
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a display device that provides real-time feedback to users about the pouring amount of laundry detergent. The computer board calculates the pouring amount based on washing parameters and displays it on the screen, allowing users to visually monitor and control the dosage. This feedback mechanism resolves the contradiction by maintaining automation while providing transparent information about the pouring amount.
Solution Approach 2:
The display screen acts as an intermediary between the computer board's internal calculation and the user. It translates the calculated pouring amount into visual information that users can understand and act upon, enabling users to make informed decisions about detergent dosage without interfering with the automated pouring process.
2Extent of automation
If the washing machine determines pouring amount based on water level or clothes smudginess degree, then the pouring amount is automatically set, but users cannot set the pouring amount by themselves
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the pouring amount dynamic and adjustable. Users can modify the pouring amount through the user interface before washing starts, and the system recalculates and updates the display accordingly. This dynamic adjustment capability allows users to customize the pouring amount according to their specific needs while maintaining the automated determination based on washing parameters.
Solution Approach 2:
The system allows users to adjust the pouring amount in advance before the washing cycle begins. Users can modify the calculated pouring amount through the user interface, and the system prepares the adjusted amount for pouring. This preliminary adjustment capability enables users to customize detergent dosage before the automated process executes.
3Loss of information
If users want to check or adjust pouring amount after washing starts, then they can see if detergent needs to be added, but the washing procedure must be paused
Solution Approach 1:
The patent displays the calculated pouring amount to users before the washing cycle begins. Users can review and adjust the amount at this stage, ensuring the correct detergent dosage is set before washing starts. This preliminary action eliminates the need to pause washing later to check or add detergent, maintaining washing efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The display device provides feedback about the pouring amount before washing starts, allowing users to verify and adjust the detergent dosage in advance. This pre-washing feedback mechanism prevents the need to interrupt the washing process later, thereby maintaining washing efficiency while ensuring proper detergent amount.
4Adaptability or versatility
If laundry detergent must be added by hand by users, then users can control the amount, but it is not beneficial for the use experience of users
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements an automatic pouring device that performs the detergent pouring operation automatically based on the calculated and user-adjusted amount. The system measures and pours the detergent without requiring manual intervention, combining automated control with user customization capability. This self-service approach maintains ease of operation while providing precise pouring amount control.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical action of users pouring detergent with an automated measuring and pouring system. The computer board calculates the required amount, and the automatic pouring device executes the pouring operation, substituting the manual mechanical process with an automated electromechanical system that provides both convenience and precision.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention provides a method for controlling pouring of laundry detergent. After being started, a washing machine calculates corresponding first pouring amount of the laundry detergent based on acquired information and displays the first pouring amount of the laundry detergent. The washing machine detects and judges a variable of the first pouring amount of the laundry detergent to form a second pouring amount of the laundry detergent, the washing procedure is started, and the washing machine pours the laundry detergent at a first pouring amount or a second pouring amount of the laundry detergent. The invention further provides a washing machine which includes an automatic pouring device, a computer board and a display screen, wherein the automatic pouring device pours based on the pouring amount of the laundry detergent calculated by the computer board, and the display screen is used for displaying the first pouring amount of the laundry detergent and/or the second pouring amount of the laundry detergent in real time. The method for controlling the pouring of laundry detergent and a washing machine provided by the invention can solve the problem that users cannot control the pouring amount of the laundry detergent by themselves when they use the existing washing machine with a function of automatic pouring of laundry detergent, thereby satisfying the individual laundry requirements of users.