Water-Level Feedback for Controlled Steam Generation in Washers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional drum type washing machines lack the ability to generate steam, relying solely on warm water for washing, which is inefficient and ineffective for enhancing washing performance and sterilization, especially for small laundry loads, leading to excessive water and energy consumption.
Innovation Solution
A washing machine equipped with a heater in the tub, controlled by a controller to generate steam, and a water level sensor to accurately detect water levels, allowing for controlled steam production and efficient water management, preventing overheating and ensuring precise steam generation based on laundry type and amount.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a conventional drum type washing machine uses only warm water for washing, then the structure remains simple, but the washing performance and sterilization effect are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the thermal parameter of the washing system by introducing a heater that generates steam, transforming the washing environment from warm water to high-temperature steam. This parameter change enhances washing performance and sterilization effect without fundamentally altering the drum type washing machine structure
Solution Approach 2:
The heater installed in the outer tub serves multiple functions: it heats water for washing, generates steam for enhanced washing performance, and provides sterilization. This multi-functionality improves washing effectiveness while avoiding the need for separate sterilization equipment
2Reliability
If the heater operates without water level detection, then the structure remains simple, but the heater may overheat and cause safety issues
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback control system where a water level sensor detects the water level in the outer tub and sends signals to the controller, which then controls the heater operation. This feedback mechanism prevents heater overheating and ensures safety without requiring complex manual monitoring systems
Solution Approach 2:
The washing machine system performs self-monitoring and self-protection through the water level sensor and controller combination. The system automatically detects water levels and adjusts heater operation accordingly, eliminating the need for external safety monitoring devices
3Adaptability or versatility
If the washing machine processes small laundry loads with full washing cycles, then the washing machine can handle various load sizes, but water and energy consumption are excessive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables partial washing cycles where the heater generates steam for enhanced washing performance on small loads without requiring a full washing cycle. This partial action approach reduces water and energy consumption while maintaining washing effectiveness for small laundry loads
Solution Approach 2:
The controller adjusts washing parameters including temperature, steam generation amount, and cycle duration based on detected load size. This parameter adaptation allows efficient energy and water usage for small loads while maintaining versatility to handle various load sizes
4Reliability
If the washing machine increases water temperature for better washing effect, then the washing performance improves, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes the phase transition of water from liquid to steam to enhance washing performance. The heater generates steam that penetrates laundry more effectively than hot water alone, providing better washing effect and sterilization while potentially reducing the total energy required compared to maintaining high water temperature throughout the entire washing cycle
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
The machine enhances washing efficiency by increasing the tub's temperature, providing effective sterilization of laundry through steam, while optimizing energy use and reducing water consumption by accurately managing steam levels and circulation.
Implementation Method 1
a heater (150) installed in the outer tub (120) along an inner surface of a storage part (121) to heat water supplied to the storage part
Implementation Method 2
heating the water contained in the tub to generate steam
Implementation Method 3
a water level sensor to detect a water level in the tub, and the controller controls the heater according to a detection result of the water level sensor
Data Source
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AI summary
A washing machine is disclosed. The washing machine has an improved structure adapted to generate steam in order to improve washing effect and enable sterilization of laundry using the steam. The washing machine comprises a tub (120) to contain water, a heater (150) installed in the tub (120), and a controller to control the heater (150) to heat the water contained in the tub (120) and to generate steam.