Method for operating a washing machine with flow device
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional washing machine methods require excessive time and energy due to complex valve systems and inefficient detergent dissolution, leading to suboptimal washing effects and increased water usage.
Innovation Solution
A method that involves controlled drum rotation speeds and phases, with reversing rhythms and centrifugal actions to distribute detergent effectively, combined with adaptive control using sensors to manage water and heating elements, optimizing detergent mixing and temperature control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the circulation device is activated continuously to improve washing effect, then washing quality is improved, but energy consumption and washing time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The circulation device is activated periodically rather than continuously. The control unit switches between activation and deactivation states based on drum rotation speed thresholds, creating a periodic operation pattern that reduces energy consumption while maintaining washing effectiveness through repeated circulation cycles.
Solution Approach 2:
The operation of the circulation device is made dynamic and adaptive to the drum rotation speed. The control unit continuously monitors rotation speed and adjusts circulation device activation accordingly, creating a dynamic control system that optimizes energy usage based on real-time washing conditions.
2Reliability
If the drum rotates at high speed continuously to prevent laundry from sticking, then laundry distribution is improved, but water efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The drum operates with periodic alternation between high speed and reduced speed phases. During high speed phases, laundry distribution is improved; during reduced speed phases with circulation device activation, water efficiency is maintained. This periodic speed variation prevents continuous high water consumption while achieving effective laundry distribution over time.
3Reliability
If multiple channels and controllable valves are used for detergent dissolution, then detergent mixing is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The complex valve system and multiple channels for detergent dissolution are extracted and replaced by a simplified approach using the existing drum rotation mechanism and circulation device. The detergent is introduced directly into the drum and distributed through the drum's natural rotation and the circulation device, eliminating the need for elaborate valve systems while achieving effective detergent dissolution.
4Use of energy by moving object
If the drum rotates at reduced speed to save energy, then energy consumption is reduced, but washing effectiveness decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the functions of drum rotation and circulation device operation into a coordinated system. During reduced speed phases, the circulation device is activated to compensate for reduced mechanical agitation, maintaining washing effectiveness. The combined action of slower drum rotation plus active liquid circulation achieves energy savings without sacrificing washing performance.
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 approach reduces washing time and energy consumption while enhancing the washing effect, ensuring efficient detergent utilization and gentle laundry care without elaborate structural changes.
Implementation Method 1
rotating the drum at a second speed, which is higher than the first speed and above the application speed, causing a centrifugal action with expulsion of wash liquid from the laundry and an increase in the level of washing liquid
Implementation Method 2
a heating element and a circulation device, the method comprising a washing phase with the heating element switched on for heating the washing liquid
Data Source
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AI summary
The method involves activating a circulating device until the level of washing liquid reaches a lower limit (Niv2). A drum is rotated with speed (n2) that is higher than another speed (n1) and lies above laying-on rotational speed. A tumbling action is caused with drive-out of the washing liquid from laundry and an increase in the level of the washing liquid to an upper limit (Niv3). The drum is rotated with the latter speed until the level exceeds the lower limit. The circulating device is continuously activated when the drum is rotated. An independent claim is also included for a washing machine with a tub for receiving washing liquids for treatment of laundry.