Detection system of washing machines removable basket and method for detection of washing machines removable basket

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Solution Overview

Problem

In washing machines with modular and removable washing baskets, it is crucial to determine if the removable basket is coupled to the stirrer before the washing process, as using or not using it alters the operational dynamics, requiring distinct filling and draining steps, and current systems lack an efficient method for verifying this condition.

Innovation Solution

A detection system comprising a sensor and a component that causes excitation, where the sensor generates a variable output signal based on electromagnetic or optical interactions, allowing the washing machine to identify the presence or absence of the removable basket by rotating the basket to ensure accurate detection.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a removable washing basket is used in the washing machine, then the washing machine can handle different washing loads and improve versatility, but it becomes difficult to detect whether the basket is properly coupled to the stirrer

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvewashing machine capability to handle different washing loadsVSAvoiddifficulty to verify basket coupling to stirrer

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDifficulty of detecting and measuring

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces complex mechanical detection mechanisms with a simple optical sensor system. A sensor detects the presence of a reflective component on the removable basket, using optical fields instead of mechanical linkages to verify coupling status. This resolves the contradiction by maintaining versatility while simplifying detection.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces a reflective component as an intermediary element between the removable basket and the sensor. This intermediary carries the coupling information from the basket to the detection system, enabling reliable verification without complex direct mechanical coupling detection.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Device complexity

If the washing machine operates without a detection system, then the device complexity is reduced, but false negatives occur when the removable basket is not properly coupled

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecomplexity of washing machine systemVSAvoidreliability of basket coupling verification

Core Design Contradiction:

Device complexityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces complex mechanical verification systems with a simple optical sensor and reflective component arrangement. This substitution maintains high reliability in detecting basket coupling status while keeping the overall device complexity low, avoiding false negatives without adding substantial mechanical complexity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The removable basket carries its own reflective component that automatically provides detection information when coupled to the stirrer. The system uses the basket's own features for self-verification, eliminating the need for external complex verification mechanisms and ensuring reliable detection.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

3Device complexity

If the sensor remains stationary, then the device complexity is minimized, but the sensor cannot accurately detect the removable basket when it is rotated during washing

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecomplexity of sensor positioning systemVSAvoidaccuracy of basket detection during rotation

Core Design Contradiction:

Device complexityVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies periodic rotation to the stirrer and removable basket during a detection phase before washing. This mechanical motion brings the reflective component into the sensor's detection field, enabling accurate detection without requiring the sensor itself to move or rotate, thus maintaining low device complexity while achieving measurement precision.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #18Mechanical vibration

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 automatic verification of the removable basket's coupling, preventing false negatives and ensuring proper operational dynamics by changing the sensor's output signal when the basket is correctly attached, thus optimizing the washing process.

Implementation Method 1

A detection system comprising a sensor and a component that causes excitation, where the sensor generates a variable output signal based on electromagnetic or optical interactions

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElectromagnetic interaction: Electromagnetic Induction

Implementation Method 2

A detection system comprising a sensor and a component that causes excitation, where the sensor generates a variable output signal based on electromagnetic or optical interactions

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectOptical interaction: Reflection

Data Source

PatentUS10697105B2Detection system of washing machines removable basket and method for detection of washing machines removable basket

Publication Date: 2020.06.30 WHIRPOOL SA

AI summary

The present invention relates to a washing machine having at least one washing basket defining a first treating chamber and at least one removable washing basket that is selectively receivable within the first treating chamber as well as at least one sensor and at least one component able to cause excitation in the sensor.