Water Diverter Reference Sensing via Integrated Turbidity Optics
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Solution Overview
Problem
Household appliances with liquid-based cleaning mechanisms require precise control of water diverters, but existing solutions involve additional components and complex wiring for reference position detection, seeking a low-effort method for accurate position sensing.
Innovation Solution
A turbidity sensor with an optical transmitter and receiver is integrated to detect the reference position of the water diverter, eliminating the need for separate sensors by using a projection that interacts with the sensor to identify the diverter's position through light path interruption, allowing for precise positioning and operation control based on turbidity measurements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a stationary mechanical position switch is used to detect the reference position of the water diverter, then the reference position can be detected, but additional components and wiring are required
Solution Approach 1:
The turbidity sensor is designed to perform dual functions: detecting water turbidity and detecting the reference position of the water diverter. By integrating the reference position detection capability into the existing turbidity sensor, the patent eliminates the need for a separate mechanical position switch, thereby reducing component complexity while maintaining measurement precision
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines the reference position detection function with the turbidity sensor by positioning the sensor such that it detects both water turbidity and the reference position of the water diverter through light path interruption. This merging of functions removes the need for additional separate detection components
2Measurement precision
If a mechanical position switch is used for reference position detection, then position monitoring is achieved, but wiring and monitoring effort increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical position switch system with an optical detection system using the turbidity sensor. The reference position is detected optically through light path interruption by the water diverter's closure element, eliminating the need for mechanical contacts and associated wiring, thereby simplifying manufacturing and reducing wiring effort
3Measurement precision
If separate sensors are used for reference position detection and turbidity monitoring, then both functions are achieved, but component complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The turbidity sensor is designed to perform dual functions: detecting water turbidity and detecting the reference position of the water diverter. By integrating the reference position detection capability into the existing turbidity sensor, the patent eliminates the need for a separate mechanical position switch, thereby reducing component complexity while maintaining measurement precision
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines the reference position detection function with the turbidity sensor by positioning the sensor such that it detects both water turbidity and the reference position of the water diverter through light path interruption. This merging of functions removes the need for additional separate detection components
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 simplifies the detection of the water diverter's position and turbidity monitoring, enabling efficient operation of household appliances by reducing component complexity and enhancing control precision, thereby optimizing water usage and cleaning effectiveness.
Implementation Method 1
a sensor device that is suitable for detecting a volume flow present in the pump's conveying direction... an optical transmitter and receiver is integrated
Implementation Method 2
a water diverter that is used to guide the water supplied via the inflow into a selection of the outflows... a closure element that is movably arranged in the cavity
Implementation Method 3
a projection that interacts with the sensor to identify the diverter's position through light path interruption
Data Source
Figure 1~2
AI summary
The appliance has a water pipeline system (1) comprising a supply section (11) and discharge sections (12, 13, 14). A water valve (2) is arranged between the supply and discharge section for controlled guiding of rinsing water from the supply section to the selected discharge section. A turbidity sensor (3) measures turbidity of the water in the pipeline system, and a controller (4) controls the operation of the appliance based on the measured turbidity. The water valve and the sensor are arranged such that a reference position of the water valve is detected by the sensor. An independent claim is also included for a method for operating a household appliance.