Washing Machine Induction Generator for Auxiliary Power Without Wiring
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing washing machines and dryers face challenges in providing auxiliary electrical functions at the wash tub and laundry basket without the need for direct electrical wiring, due to safety concerns and complexity in the moist environment, as well as the desire for improved ergonomics and functionality like lighting and parameter detection.
Innovation Solution
Integration of an electric induction generator between the wash tub and laundry basket, which generates electricity through the rotation of the basket, eliminating the need for direct wiring to the main power supply and allowing for features like lighting and parameter detection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If direct electrical wiring is implemented at the wash tub and basket, then auxiliary electrical functions (lighting, parameter detection) can be provided, but safety risks and system complexity increase due to the moist environment and direct user contact with metal basket
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical/electrical wiring system with an electromagnetic induction system. An induction generator mounted on the stationary wash tub generates electricity through electromagnetic induction when the rotating laundry basket passes by, eliminating the need for direct electrical wiring at the basket while enabling auxiliary electrical functions like lighting and parameter detection
Solution Approach 2:
The induction generator acts as an intermediary between the rotating basket and the electrical system. It converts mechanical motion into electrical energy without requiring direct electrical connections to the basket, thereby enabling auxiliary functions while maintaining safety by keeping wiring away from the moist environment and user contact areas
2Adaptability or versatility
If direct electrical wiring is implemented at the wash tub and basket, then auxiliary electrical functions can be provided, but wiring complexity and installation difficulty increase due to the moist environment and relative movement between basket and wash tub
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical/electrical wiring system with an electromagnetic induction system. An induction generator mounted on the stationary wash tub generates electricity through electromagnetic induction when the rotating laundry basket passes by, eliminating the need for direct electrical wiring at the basket while enabling auxiliary electrical functions like lighting and parameter detection
Solution Approach 2:
The induction generator serves multiple functions: it generates electricity for auxiliary functions, detects the position and motion of the basket, and provides a compact integrated solution that eliminates complex wiring while enabling versatile electrical functionality at the wash tub and basket
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
Enables the provision of electricity at the wash tub and basket without wiring issues, reducing energy losses and enabling advanced features like lighting and precise control of washing and drying cycles, while simplifying the system and enhancing user experience.
Implementation Method 1
an electric induction generator connected between the wash tub and the laundry basket and which generates electricity in dependency of the rotation of the laundry basket with respect to the wash tub
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
Figure 5
AI summary
A washing machine (1) comprises a housing (2), a stationary wash tub (3) arranged inside the housing (2) and having an opening closable by means of a door (4) of the housing (2), a laundry basket (5) rotatably supported inside the wash tub (3) and operable in rotation about a basket rotation axis (34) by means of an electric motor (14), a water loading system (6) connectable to mains water system and in communication with the wash tub (3) to load water into the wash tub (3), as well as an electric induction generator (21) connected between the wash tub (3) and the laundry basket (5), and which generates electric current according to the rotation of the laundry basket (5) with respect to the tub (3).