A method of operating a household appliance, and a household appliance, in particular a dishwasher

Simple SummaryContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

This patent describes a method and appliance (especially a dishwasher) that detects unpleasant odors caused by the decomposition of organic material, like food residue. It uses two sensors: one that specifically detects chemicals released during decomposition, and another that is not sensitive to those chemicals but responds similarly to environmental changes. By analyzing and comparing the signals from both sensors, the system can reliably identify true odor events and trigger actions (like a cleaning cycle) to remove or reduce odors, avoiding unnecessary responses to changes in temperature or humidity.

Use CasesContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Automatic odor-based cleaning cycle activation in dishwashers to prevent lingering smells from food residues.
• Smart refrigeration units that detect food spoilage and alert users or trigger self-cleaning cycles.
• Garbage bins or waste storage units that monitor for decomposition odors and activate ventilation or deodorizing actions.
• Laundry machines that sense spoiled or mildewed fabrics and suggest or start hygiene cycles.
• Commercial kitchen appliances where odor management and cleanliness are critical, providing automated interventions.

BenefitsContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Reduces unnecessary cleaning cycles by reliably distinguishing between real odor events and environmental influences, saving energy and water.
• Ensures a fresher, more hygienic kitchen and household environment by quickly addressing unpleasant odors.
• Improves user experience by minimizing bad smells and automating maintenance actions.
• Simple sensor configuration avoids the complexity and cost of multi-sensor 'electronic nose' systems, while maintaining reliability.
• Adaptable to different types of household appliances, increasing their intelligence and autonomy.

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Patent Abstract

In a method of operating a household appliance, in particular a dishwasher, the presence of (unpleasant) odours due to decomposition of organic materials is determined by using two different sensors, wherein only one of the sensors is responsive to a chemical substance occurring upon decomposition of organic material, and the other is not, but wherein both sensors are responsive to particular environmental conditions in a similar manner. By comparing the sensor signals (10, 12; 10', 12'), one can distinguish between an influence of a change in the environmental conditions and the occurrence of the substance due to decomposition of organic material.