Washing machine and method for providing notification thereof
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Solution Overview
Problem
Washing machines are prone to malfunction or breakdown when residual water freezes due to low atmospheric temperatures in winter, as there is no effective method to prevent freezing.
Innovation Solution
A washing machine equipped with a temperature sensor, communicator, and processor that detects residual water temperature and notifies the user via a display and user terminal device if the temperature is likely to freeze, allowing for proactive measures to prevent freezing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the washing machine operates in low atmospheric temperature environments, then the washing machine can be used in winter conditions, but the residual water may freeze causing malfunction or breakdown
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by detecting temperature trends before freezing occurs. The processor monitors residual water temperature and compares it with atmospheric temperature data, then sends notifications to users in advance of actual freezing, allowing them to take preventive measures such as running the drainage cycle or moving the washing machine to a warmer location.
Solution Approach 2:
The system establishes feedback loops through temperature monitoring and notification mechanisms. The sensor continuously detects residual water temperature, the processor compares this with atmospheric temperature data from the communicator, and the display/communicator provides feedback to users about freezing risk, enabling them to adjust conditions and prevent freezing.
2Reliability
If a temperature detection and notification system is added to prevent freezing, then washing machine reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system achieves multi-functionality by having the existing sensor serve dual purposes: monitoring temperature during normal washing operations and detecting freezing conditions. The processor and communicator are already present for other washing machine functions, and this invention adds the capability of comparing temperature data and generating freezing notifications, making existing components serve multiple functions.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements self-service by automatically monitoring temperature conditions and notifying users without requiring manual intervention. The sensor automatically detects temperature, the processor automatically compares readings and determines freezing risk, and the display/communicator automatically sends notifications, allowing the washing machine to monitor and report its own freezing risk status.
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
Prevents washing machine breakdown by alerting users to potential freezing conditions, enabling them to take action and reduce repair costs.
Implementation Method 1
a sensor for detecting a temperature of residual water of the washing machine
Data Source
AI summary
A washing machine includes communicator, a display, a sensor for detecting a water temperature of residual water of the washing machine, and a processor. When the water temperature is equal to or lower than a first temperature, the processor is configured to receive data regarding a temperature of an area where the washing machine is located from an application server. The processor is configured to transmit the received data regarding the temperature to a data server so that the received data regarding the temperature is transmitted to a user terminal device. When the water temperature is equal to or lower than a temperature that is lower than the first temperature, the processor is configured to display a notification regarding freezing of the washing machine. The processor is configured to transmit the notification to the application server so that the notification is transmitted to the user terminal device.