CN114165970A

CN114165970A - Air treatment device for household appliances

Info

Publication number: CN114165970A
Application number: CN202110960448.8A
Authority: CN
Inventors: 曼弗雷迪·西格诺里诺; 本杰明·施玛拉; 任少江
Original assignee: emz Hanauer GmbH and Co KGaA
Current assignee: emz Hanauer GmbH and Co KGaA
Priority date: 2020-09-10
Filing date: 2021-08-20
Publication date: 2022-03-11

Abstract

The present invention relates to an air treatment device for a household appliance with container means, said air treatment device comprising a first housing in which at least one treatment device is arranged, said air treatment device having supply means arranged and adapted to direct an air flow, preferably from said container means to said treatment device, and discharge means arranged and adapted to direct an air flow away from said treatment device, and said at least one treatment device comprising a through channel for said air flow, radiation source means and photocatalytic means.

Description

Air treatment device for household appliances

Technical Field

The present invention relates to an air treatment device for a household appliance with a container device. The invention also comprises a household appliance with an air treatment device.

Background

Such a household appliance may be, for example, a dishwasher or a washing machine. In this case the container means is a tub in which the items to be washed and the washing liquid are located. Such a domestic appliance may also be a refrigerator or freezer, for example, and the container device will thus be a cooling space in which the goods to be cooled are located.

As operating time increases, it is often necessary to dispose of the air in the container device. Microorganisms present in the air-such as viruses, bacteria, yeasts and molds-can be dangerous to human health, contaminate raw materials and destroy food. In addition, air may contain gases, liquids and solids that can leave an unpleasant odor. Although some household appliances are provided with devices aimed at eliminating these problems, these devices are specifically designed for each of these household appliances. Therefore, there is a need for an air treatment device that is inexpensive to manufacture and can be used with a variety of different household appliances.

Disclosure of Invention

It is an object of the present invention to provide an air treatment device for a household appliance which overcomes the mentioned drawbacks. Another object of the invention is to provide a household appliance with an air treatment device.

This object is achieved by the subject matter of claims 1 and 10. Dependent claims include preferred embodiments.

According to the present invention, there is provided an air treatment device for a domestic appliance having container means, the air treatment device comprising a first housing in which at least one treatment device is arranged, the air treatment device having supply means arranged and adapted to direct an air flow, preferably from the container means to the treatment device, and discharge means arranged and adapted to direct an air flow away from the treatment device, preferably to the container means, and the at least one treatment device comprising a through channel for the air flow, radiation source means and photocatalytic means.

The air treatment device therefore comprises a first housing on which a supply device and a discharge device for the air flow from or to the container device are arranged. Advantageously, all expensive components of the air treatment device in the form of a treatment device are arranged in the first housing. The household appliance advantageously comprises a housing in which the container device is arranged. The first housing of the air treatment device may be arranged inside or outside the housing of the domestic appliance. Due to the compact design of the air treatment device in a separate housing with supply means and exhaust means, the present air treatment device represents a modular element that can be implemented or used in a large number of domestic appliances. All expensive components in the form of processing equipment are concentrated in a single housing. An air treatment device is thus provided which can be used in a modular manner and which can be used in a large number of domestic appliances. The compact design allows implementation at any available location in the device.

Part of the air from the container means is removed by the air stream and treated by the treatment device. The treated partial air quantity is then fed back to the container device via the discharge device. By means of an advantageous continuous operation, it is possible to treat the entire air quantity or a large part thereof in the container device. The treatment of air is understood to mean cleaning and/or disinfection and/or odour removal.

According to a preferred embodiment, the radiation source device emits electromagnetic radiation. Preferably, the photocatalytic device may be exposed to at least a portion of the electromagnetic radiation to produce a photocatalytic reaction.

According to a preferred embodiment, the photocatalytic device comprises at least one photocatalytic material. The photocatalytic device preferably comprises a photocatalytic surface comprising at least one photocatalytic material. The photocatalytic material is preferably integrated into the photocatalytic surface. At least the photocatalytic surface is preferably at least partially composed of at least one photocatalytic material. Advantageously, the photocatalytic surface of the photocatalytic device comprises a portion consisting of photocatalytic material. Preferably, at least the photocatalytic surface of the photocatalytic device is entirely composed of photocatalytic material. The photocatalytic surface is preferably exposed to electromagnetic radiation from a radiation source device.

The photocatalytic material of the photocatalytic device is preferably a semiconductor. Semiconductors are usually produced by so-called energyThe band model (band model) describes and includes a conduction band and a valence band, which are separated in energy from each other by a so-called bandgap. The size of the band gap varies with the corresponding individual semiconductor material. According to the fermi distribution, the valence and conduction bands are occupied by electrons. Thus, at zero temperature, the valence band is occupied and the conduction band is unoccupied. An incident photon may generate an electron-hole pair if the energy of the photon is greater than or equal to the energy difference in the bandgap. Mobile electrons in the conduction band may advantageously undergo chemical or photocatalytic reactions on the surface of the photocatalytic material. In this case, particles in the air are advantageously reduced. Such particles may preferably be molecules, ions or atoms. This reduction may have altered the chemical nature of certain ingredients so that they no longer produce an unpleasant odor, or may be more easily removed, for example by washing. In addition, chemical or photocatalytic reactions can generate free radicals. Free radicals are molecules, ions or atoms with unpaired electrons and are highly reactive. These free radicals can advantageously react with and kill unwanted microorganisms and gases in the air or convert them into other gases. Thus, unwanted microorganisms and unwanted gases in the air are removed, otherwise an unpleasant smell is generated. According to a preferred embodiment, the photocatalytic material is or comprises titanium (IV) oxide (titanium dioxide, TiO)₂). Also a titanium dioxide coating applied to another material, such as a ceramic, is contemplated.

According to a further advantageous embodiment, the radiation source device comprises at least one radiation source. The at least one radiation source is preferably a Light Emitting Diode (LED). The radiation source device advantageously emits electromagnetic radiation with a wavelength of less than 400 nm. The radiation source device advantageously emits UV radiation. The at least one radiation source is preferably a UV LED. The emitted electromagnetic radiation, preferably in the form of UV radiation, illuminates the photocatalytic device or photocatalytic surface and causes the above-mentioned photocatalytic reaction. In the presence of titanium dioxide (TiO)₂) In an advantageous use of (a) irradiation with UV radiation results in the generation of electron-hole pairs and the above-mentioned chemical or photocatalytic reaction. Irradiation of titanium dioxide with UV radiation can preferably remove natural and artificial impurities by reducing atmospheric oxygen and oxidizing (mineralizing) air and waterThese impurities form an environmentally friendly end product. Furthermore, the surface of the titanium dioxide can advantageously be made superhydrophilic by absorption of UV radiation. The radiation source device advantageously emits electromagnetic radiation with a wavelength in the range of 380nm to 315 nm. This radiation is also referred to as so-called UV-a radiation. However, the use of UV-B radiation (315nm to 280nm) and UV-C radiation (280nm to 100nm) is also conceivable. By advantageously using UV-C radiation, this radiation already has a corresponding influence on the air or the air flow. In particular, short-wave UV radiation has a strong bactericidal effect. It is taken up by the DNA of the microorganisms and destroys their structure there. Live cells are inactivated in this manner.

According to a further advantageous embodiment, at least one radiation source is arranged on the carrier device. The carrier device is advantageously designed in the form of a plate. The carrier device is preferably designed as a Printed Circuit Board (PCB). Advantageously, at least one drive device for the at least one radiation source is also arranged on the carrier plate. The carrier device is preferably arranged substantially opposite the photocatalytic device. The through-channels for air or gas flow are advantageously arranged between the carrier device and the photocatalytic device. This arrangement allows optimum irradiation of the photocatalytic surface with electromagnetic radiation. Furthermore, an optimal contact of the photocatalytic surface with the gas flow can be ensured.

According to a further advantageous embodiment, at least one air flow device is provided, by means of which an air flow can be generated into and/or out of the air treatment apparatus. In this case, it is advantageous if the supply device has an air inlet opening and the treatment device has an air outlet opening. The at least one air flow device advantageously generates a negative pressure at the air inlet aperture. An air flow into the at least one air inlet aperture may be generated by the negative pressure. The air flow preferably flows into the first housing of the air treatment device via the supply means through the at least one air inlet opening and out of the first housing of the air treatment device via the discharge means and into the container means through the at least one air outlet opening. In the first housing of the air treatment device, the air flow flows through the through-channel of the treatment device. The at least one air flow means preferably delivers the air flow further to the treatment device, through the means and then back into the container means through the at least one air outlet opening.

The removal of the quantity of air and the supply of the quantity of air produce an air circulation in the container device. By means of this air circulation, the majority of the air in the container device or substantially all of the air in the container device is continuously supplied to the air treatment apparatus.

According to a preferred alternative embodiment, the air flow is generated by a household appliance and supplied to a supply device of the air treatment apparatus. Thus, the air treatment device can be constructed more compact and without the need for air flow means.

According to a preferred embodiment, the air flow means comprise a drive means, such as a motor, in particular an electric motor, which drives the rotor or the fan to generate the air flow. According to a further advantageous embodiment, the air flow means are at least partially integrated into the first housing of the air treatment device. In this case, the rotor or the fan can advantageously be integrated at least partially or completely into the first housing. In this case, the drive means, for example a motor, can also be arranged in the first housing of the air treatment device. This will provide a particularly compact air treatment device. However, it is also conceivable that only the rotor or the fan is arranged in the first housing. The drive means may then be arranged outside the first housing. The necessary power transmission from the drive to the rotor can take place via a power transmission. This may be a shaft, a gearbox, a main shaft or similar.

According to a further preferred embodiment, the air flow means are arranged on the housing of the air treatment device. The gas flow device advantageously comprises a second housing sealingly arranged on the first housing. This may be done by non-forced and/or forced connections. This may be, for example, a snap connection, a screw connection, etc. The connection is advantageously releasable. This has the advantage that the components can be replaced and the housing can be cleaned. Substance-to-substance connections, such as adhesive connections or welded connections, are also conceivable. The second housing is preferably arranged between the first housing of the air treatment device and the supply device. By this arrangement, the airflow can be efficiently generated.

According to a further advantageous embodiment, the supply device and/or the discharge device are designed as hoses. The supply device and/or the discharge device are advantageously made of a flexible material. Such an advantageous hose-like, flexible supply and/or discharge device enables the positioning of the first housing and optionally of the second housing to be simplified and also to be changed in a simple manner. Of course, the supply device and/or the discharge device can also consist of dimensionally stable tubular elements.

According to a further advantageous embodiment, the length of the supply means and/or the discharge means is designed such that liquid is largely prevented from entering the first housing when the air treatment device is arranged in height direction above the inlet and outlet openings of the container means. The inlet opening for the gas flow of the container means is advantageously connected to the gas flow outlet opening of the discharge means. The air outlet opening of the container means is preferably connected to the air inlet opening of the supply means. The arrangement of the air treatment device, in particular the first housing, above the inlet and outlet apertures of the container means in the vertical direction (Z) of the household appliance prevents a large amount of liquid from entering the first housing or the treatment device. The length is sized to substantially prevent unwanted liquid from reaching the first housing and/or the second housing by acting gravity. The feeding means and/or the discharge means advantageously have a length of at least 10cm, preferably at least 5 cm.

According to another advantageous embodiment, the air treatment apparatus comprises a dehumidifying device. However, droplets may be carried in the gas flow, which droplets enter the first housing and/or the second housing in an undesired manner. This moisture can be removed by an advantageous dehumidification device. The dehumidifying device is preferably arranged in the first housing. The dehumidifying means advantageously comprise heating means. The air temperature of the air flow can be raised by means of an advantageous heating device. Thus, the air can absorb more moisture, which is carried away by the airflow. However, dehumidification devices that absorb moisture, such as chemical dehumidification devices, are also contemplated. Of course, other dehumidification devices may be used.

The present object of the invention is also achieved by a household appliance comprising at least one air treatment device according to one of the above-mentioned embodiments. The household appliance may be equipped with all the features already described above for the air treatment device, alone or in combination with each other, and vice versa.

Such a household appliance advantageously comprises a housing and a container device arranged therein. The air treatment device may preferably be arranged outside or inside the housing of the domestic appliance. Such a household appliance may advantageously be a dishwasher, a washing machine, a refrigerator or some other household appliance. In the case of a domestic appliance in the form of a dishwasher or washing machine, the container device is also referred to as a tub. The items to be washed are placed in the tub. During the washing process, the washing liquid in the form of water mixed with the treating agent is then introduced into the tub.

The household appliance may comprise only one air treatment device or a plurality of (e.g. two) air treatment devices.

The housing of the household appliance is preferably designed in the shape of a cube or a cuboid. The household appliance preferably has at least three side walls. The housing may comprise two lateral side walls. The housing may also include a rear sidewall. Finally, the housing may include a front sidewall. It is also advantageous for the domestic appliance to have an opening and closing device, by means of which the container device can be closed. The opening and closing device can be designed, for example, as a door which is integrated in the front side wall or alternatively provided as a front side wall. User operating elements may optionally be provided on the front side wall and/or on the opening and closing device. Such an operating element is, for example, a program selection switch for a dishwasher. The air treatment device may for example be arranged inside or outside a side wall of the domestic appliance.

According to an advantageous embodiment, at least one control device is provided. The at least one control device may be associated with a household appliance or an air treatment apparatus. The control device is advantageously connected to the drive device and/or the air flow device by means of signals. It is also advantageous if the control means are connected to the processing device in accordance with signaling. The radiation source device may thus be activated by the control device. Preferably, in the first state the air treatment device in the form of the treatment device and/or the air flow arrangement can be activated, and in the second state the air treatment device in the form of the treatment device and/or the air flow arrangement can be deactivated.

In an embodiment of the domestic appliance in the form of a dishwasher, washing machine or the like, the washing liquid may be introduced into the container device or tub in the second state. However, sufficiently designing the length of the supply means and the discharge means may prevent washing liquid from entering the first housing and/or the second housing.

According to a further advantageous embodiment, a first status signal relating to a first status of the air treatment device may be received or generated by the at least one control device. Preferably, a second status signal relating to a second status of the air treatment device may be received or generated by the control means.

According to a further advantageous embodiment, an input device is provided, by means of which the first state signal and/or the second state signal can be generated. The input device may be implemented in a household appliance or in an air treatment apparatus.

The input device preferably sends the first status signal and/or the second status signal to the control device. After receiving the first status signal or the second status signal, the control device preferably initiates the first status or the second status of the air treatment apparatus. The air treatment device may thus be placed in a first state, in which the air treatment device is activated, by means of or via the input means with a corresponding input. It is thus also possible to place the air treatment device in a second state, in which the air treatment device is deactivated, by means of or via the input means with a corresponding input. The input means may preferably be manually operated. Thus, the input means may comprise, for example, buttons and/or switches and/or a touch screen. It is also contemplated that the input device is adapted to handle speech input. Alternatively or cumulatively, the input device may also comprise gesture recognition for inputting commands by means of gestures.

The input means may preferably receive the first status signal and/or the second status signal from an external communication means of the user. The connection between the external communication device and the input device is preferably a wireless connection. For example, the external communication device may be a smart phone, a tablet computer, a laptop computer, or the like. The corresponding wireless connection may be, for example, an RFID (radio frequency identification) connection, an NFC (near field communication) connection, a Wi-Fi connection or a mobile phone connection. Of course, further wireless connections or wired connections may also be used. Thus, the user can activate or deactivate the air treatment device in a very convenient way (e.g. via a smartphone).

However, the activation or deactivation of the air treatment device can also advantageously be automated. For this purpose, the control device itself preferably generates the first status signal and/or the second status signal. The corresponding status signal is then processed accordingly by the control means, thereby initiating the first and second states.

The at least one control device preferably generates the first status signal and/or the second status signal on the basis of sensor data from the sensor device. The sensor means preferably comprises at least one sensor for detecting the loading state in the container means. Such a sensor may be, for example, a weight sensor that detects the weight of the loaded items. Sensors in the form of camera systems are also conceivable, which can recognize the loading state, for example by image recognition. Advantageously, the first state may be triggered or the air treatment device activated upon detection of a load (e.g. in the form of a dish to be cleaned in the case of a dishwasher). Alternatively or cumulatively, the sensor means preferably comprise at least one sensor detecting certain gases in the air in the container means. For example, such gases may be those that produce an unpleasant odor. Preferably, when such gas is detected, a first state may be triggered or the air treatment device activated. After the gas is removed, a second state may then be triggered or the air treatment device deactivated. The sensor means preferably comprise at least one sensor detecting the opening and/or closing of the opening and closing device.

Preferably, the second status signal may also be generated or received at the start of a specific program of the household appliance, for example at the start of a washing program. This can be done using the control device described or also using another control device.

According to another advantageous embodiment, a timer device is provided. Such a timer device may preferably be integrated into the control device or may also be provided as another device in the household appliance. The first status signal and/or the second status signal may advantageously be generated on the basis of a given point in time or a given time interval. Advantageously, the time at which the first state is activated and the duration of the first state may thus be determined.

The control means advantageously comprise memory means in which a specific sequence program is stored. Such sequential procedures may include sequential actuation of particular devices, such as gas flow devices or treatment apparatus. Also, the actuation strength of these devices can be advantageously provided in such a sequential procedure. For example, the photocatalytic reaction can be controlled by advantageously controlling the operating current of the radiation source device. Also, the air flow rate may be controlled by advantageous actuation of the air flow device.

The present object of the invention is also achieved by a method for controlling a household appliance or an air treatment device. The method may be provided with all features already described above for the device, alone or in combination with each other, and vice versa.

Drawings

Further advantages, objects and features of the invention will be explained with reference to the following description of the drawings. In various embodiments, similar components may have the same reference numerals.

In the drawings:

FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view of an air treatment device according to one embodiment;

FIG. 2 is a side view of an air treatment device according to one embodiment;

FIG. 3 is a side view of an air treatment device according to an embodiment;

FIG. 4 is a representation of an air treatment device according to an embodiment;

FIG. 5 is a basic external shape of an air treatment device according to one embodiment;

fig. 6 is a basic circuit diagram of a home appliance according to an embodiment and a sectional view of an air treatment apparatus according to an embodiment;

FIG. 7 is a representation of a household appliance including at least one air treatment device according to an embodiment.

Detailed Description

Fig. 1 to 4 show an air treatment device 1 for a household appliance 100 with a container means 102, the air treatment device 1 comprising a first housing 2 in which at least one treatment device 3 is arranged, the air treatment device 1 having a supply means 4 and a discharge means 5, the supply means 4 being arranged and adapted to direct an air flow 10 to the treatment device 3, the discharge means 5 being intended and adapted to direct the air flow 10 away from the treatment device 3, and the at least one treatment device 3 comprising a through channel 6 for the air flow 10, a radiation source means 7 and a photocatalytic means 8.

Fig. 7 shows a household appliance 100 comprising at least one air treatment device 1. The household appliance 100 may be a dishwasher, a washing machine, a refrigerator, or the like. The household appliance 100 comprises a housing 101 and a container arrangement 102 arranged therein. The air treatment device 1 may be arranged outside or inside the housing 101 of the household appliance 100. Furthermore, a gas flow 10 out of and/or into the container device 102 can be generated by means of at least one gas flow device 11. Thus, the air in the containment device 102 may be treated, cleaned, or sterilized.

The processing device 3 is schematically shown in fig. 3. The treatment device 3 extends along a height axis Z ', a width axis Y ' and a longitudinal axis X '. The treatment device 3 comprises a through channel 6 for a gas flow 10, a radiation source device 7 and a photocatalytic device 8. The radiation source device 7 emits electromagnetic radiation. The photocatalytic device 8 may be exposed to at least a portion of the electromagnetic radiation to produce a photocatalytic reaction. The photocatalytic device 8 preferably comprises a photocatalytic surface 8a comprising at least one photocatalytic material. The photocatalytic material is a semiconductor and comprises or is preferably titanium (IV) oxide (TiO)₂). The photocatalytic surface 8a comprises areas 8b with photocatalytic material. However, other designs of the photocatalytic surface 8a are also contemplated. When titanium dioxide is used, it is advantageous that the radiation source device 7 emits electromagnetic radiation with a wavelength of less than 400nm, preferably in the range of 380nm to 315 nm. The radiation source device 7 comprises at least one radiation source 7a, the at least one radiation source 7a being a Light Emitting Diode (LED) or a UV LED. Radiation source device 7 packageComprising a plurality of radiation sources 7a, the total number of radiation sources 7a being Ntot. At least one radiation source 7a is arranged on the carrier device 9. The carrier device 9 is substantially plate-shaped and is arranged substantially opposite the photocatalytic device 8. The through-channel 6 for the gas flow 10 is arranged between the carrier device 9 and the photocatalytic device 8. The driver module for the radiation source or LED is also arranged on a carrier device 9, which is designed as a Printed Circuit Board (PCB).

The carrier device 9 extends in a plane spanned by the width axis Y 'and the longitudinal axis X'. The photocatalytic surface 8a also extends in a plane spanned by the width axis Y 'and the longitudinal axis X'. The radiation source device 7 or the carrier device 9 with the radiation source 7a is spaced apart from the photocatalytic device 8 or photocatalytic surface 8a along the height axis Z'.

The air treatment device 1 extends along a height axis Z, a longitudinal axis X and a width axis Y. Fig. 1 to 3 show that the first housing 2 is designed in a rectangular parallelepiped shape. However, the present invention is not limited to this design. The first housing 2 is preferably made of plastic or metal. The processing device 3 is arranged in the first housing 2. The carrier device 9 is arranged on the upper inner wall 2a along the vertical direction Z. The photocatalytic device 8 is arranged opposite the carrier device 9. The first housing 2 further includes an air inlet hole 2b and an air outlet hole 2 c. The air flow 10 enters the first housing 2 through the air inlet hole 2 b. The gas flow 10 then preferably enters the channel 6 through a channel opening in the photocatalytic device 8 and/or in a gas flow channel around the photocatalytic device 8. During passage through the through-channel 6, the air in the air flow 10 is treated. Subsequently, the air flow 10 then preferably enters the photocatalytic device 8 through the opening and/or reaches the air outlet opening 2c of the first housing 2 in an air flow channel around the photocatalytic device 8.

The discharge device 5 is disposed at the air outlet hole 2c of the first housing 2. The discharge device 5 is sealingly attached to the first housing 2 by means of a non-positive and/or positive connection, such as a snap connection, a plug connection or a threaded connection. Alternatively, substance-to-substance linkage is also contemplated. There is thus a fluid connection between the air outlet opening 2c, the first housing 2 and the discharge means 5, which allows the air flow 10 to pass.

Furthermore, an air flow device 11 is provided, which is arranged on the first housing 2 of the air treatment apparatus 11. The gas flow means 11 comprise a second housing 12 sealingly arranged on the first housing 2. According to an alternative embodiment, the air flow means 11 may be at least partially integrated into the first housing 2 of the air treatment device 1. The second housing 12 is preferably constructed of a plastic material or metal. The second housing 12 comprises a main part 12a, which is designed substantially as a cylinder, to which a delivery part 12b is connected. The delivery portion 12b of the second housing 12 opens into the first housing 2. The discharge device 5 is sealingly attached to the first housing 2 by means of a non-positive and/or positive connection, such as a snap connection, a plug connection or a threaded connection. Alternatively, substance-to-substance linkage is also contemplated.

The air flow means 11 comprise a rotor 15 or a fan arranged in the centre of the main portion 12 a. The airflow 10 is generated by a rotor 15. Therefore, a negative pressure is generated at the air inlet hole 4a or the outlet hole 102a of the container device 102. An overpressure is also created at the air outlet opening 5a and the air inlet opening 102b of the container means 102. The rotor 15 is driven by a drive device, which may be arranged within the second housing 12 or also outside the second housing 12. The drive means may be an electric motor, for example. For the power transmission between the drive means and the rotor 15, gears, shafts, spindles or similar suitable power transmission means may be provided.

As can be seen clearly in fig. 2 and 3, the supply device 4 is arranged on the second housing 12. Here, there may also be a sealed connection between the second housing 12 and the supply device 4 by means of a non-positive and/or positive connection (for example a snap connection, a plug connection or a screw connection). Alternatively, substance-to-substance connections are also conceivable here. The second housing 12 is thus arranged between the first housing 2 of the air treatment device 1 and the supply means 4.

The supply device 4 and/or the discharge device 5 are designed in the manner of a hose and are advantageously composed of a flexible material. This has the following advantages: the arrangement of the air treatment device in various household appliances has a great design freedom. Of course, it is also conceivable to design the supply device and/or the discharge device 5 in the form of a dimensionally stable tube.

The supply means 4 is arranged at the outlet opening 102a of the container means 102 and the discharge means 5 is arranged at the inlet opening 102b of the container means 102. Thus, there is a fluid connection between the air inlet opening 4a of the air handling device and the outlet opening 102a of the container means 102 and between the air outlet opening 5a of the air handling device and the inlet opening 102b of the container means 102. In fig. 2 and 3, flange elements are provided on the supply device 4 and the discharge device 5, by means of which flange elements the supply device 4 and the discharge device 5 can be fixed directly or indirectly to the container device 102. Of course other non-mandatory and/or mandatory connections are also contemplated.

Thus, the air flow 10 flows out of the container means 102 through the outlet opening 102a into the air inlet opening 4a and the supply means 4. From there, the air flows into the second housing 12 and continues into the first housing 2. After passing through the treatment device, the treated air flow 10 enters the container means 102 via the discharge means 5, the air outlet opening 5a and the inlet opening 102 b.

The length of the supply means 4 and/or the discharge means 5 is designed such that liquid is largely prevented from entering the first housing 2 when the air treatment device 1 is arranged above the inlet opening 102b and the outlet opening 102a of the container means 102 in the height direction Z. This can be clearly seen in fig. 7. Gravity (shown by arrow 14 in fig. 3) acting along the length or a portion of the length of the supply means 4 and/or the discharge means 5 may substantially prevent liquid from flowing out of the reservoir means 102 into the first housing 2 and/or the second housing 12. The first housing 2 should be arranged above the dotted line as shown in fig. 3. In this way, expensive locking mechanisms can be advantageously avoided.

However, due to the gas flow and the condensation process, liquid may nevertheless be present in the first housing 2 and/or the second housing 12. To this end, the air treatment device 1 comprises a dehumidifying means 13 by means of which moisture can be removed from the first housing 2 and/or the second housing 12. The dehumidifying means 13 is arranged inside the first housing 2. The dehumidifying apparatus 13 shown in fig. 1 includes a heating means provided at the air inlet hole 2 b. The heating device raises the temperature. Thus, the air can absorb more liquid in the form of vapor. The liquid is removed from the housing by the moving gas stream.

Fig. 7 shows a household appliance 100. The housing 101 of the household appliance 100 may comprise a switching device 104, for example a door, by means of which the container means 102 may be closed. At least one air treatment device 1 may be arranged in or on the switching device 104. The household appliance 100 may be substantially cubic or rectangular parallelepiped and may comprise two lateral side walls 105a and one rear side wall 105b or also one rear wall, preferably opposite the shutter 104. Finally, the housing may include a front sidewall 105. The opening and closing device 104 may be designed, for example, as a door which is integrated in the front side wall 105 or alternatively provided as the front side wall 105. User operating elements may optionally be provided on the front side wall and/or on the opening and closing device 104. Such an operating element is, for example, a program selection switch for a dishwasher. The air treatment device may be arranged on any side wall inside or outside the housing.

Fig. 6 is a basic circuit diagram of a household appliance 100 comprising at least one air treatment device 1. Thus, a control device 103 is provided, which may be associated with the household appliance or the air treatment apparatus 1. The control means 103 are connected to the air treatment device 1 for signalling purposes. The treatment apparatus 5, in particular the radiation source device 7, the gas flow device 11, in particular the drive devices for the rotor 15 and the dehumidifying device 13, can thus be controlled with the control device 103.

According to another embodiment, the air treatment device 1 itself comprises control means which are connected to the control means of the household appliance or can be independent of this control means. The input means will thus communicate with the control means of the air treatment device 1.

A first status signal relating to a first status of the air treatment device 1 may be received or generated by the control means 103. A second status signal relating to a second status of the air treatment device 1 may also be received or generated by the control means 103. The air treatment device 1 may be activated in a first state and the air treatment device 1 may be deactivated in a second state. In the activated state of the air treatment device 1, the treatment device 6 or the radiation source device 7 and the air flow device 11 are advantageously activated.

In an embodiment of the domestic appliance 100 in the form of a dishwasher, washing machine or the like, the washing liquid is introduced into the container device 102 or tub in the second state.

The control device 103 is connected by means of signals to at least one input device 106, by means of which a first status signal and/or a second status signal can be generated. The input means 106 sends the first status signal and/or the second status signal to the at least one control means 103, whereby said control means initiates the first state or the second state of the air treatment device 1. The air treatment device 1 can thus be placed in a first state, in which the air treatment device 1 is activated, by means of or via the input means 106 with a corresponding input. It is thus also possible to place the air treatment device 1 in a second state, in which the air treatment device 1 is deactivated, by means of or via the input means 106 with a corresponding input. The input device 106 may preferably be manually operated. Thus, the input means 106 may comprise, for example, buttons and/or switches and/or a touch screen. The input device 106 may preferably receive the first status signal and/or the second status signal from the external communication device 200 of the user. The connection between the external communication device and the input device is preferably a wireless connection 201. For example, the external communication device 200 may be a smart phone, a tablet computer, a laptop computer, or the like. The corresponding wireless connection 201 may be, for example, an RFID (radio frequency identification) connection, an NFC (near field communication) connection, a Wi-Fi connection or a mobile phone connection. Of course, further wireless connections or wired connections may also be used.

However, the activation or deactivation of the air treatment device 1 can also advantageously be automated. For this purpose, the control device 103 itself preferably generates the first status signal and/or the second status signal. The corresponding status signals are then processed accordingly by the control means 103, thereby initiating the first and second states. The at least one control device 103 preferably generates the first status signal and/or the second status signal based on sensor data from the sensor device 107. The sensor device 107 may include at least one sensor 107a that detects a loading state in the container device 102. Such a sensor 107a may be, for example, a weight sensor that detects the weight of the loaded items. A sensor 107a in the form of a camera system is also conceivable, which can recognize the loading state, for example by image recognition. Advantageously, the first state or the activation of the air treatment device 1 may be triggered upon detection of a load, for example in the form of a dish to be cleaned in the case of a dishwasher. Alternatively or cumulatively, the sensor device 107 includes at least one sensor 107a that detects certain gases in the air in the container device 102. For example, such gases may be those that produce an unpleasant odor. Preferably, when such a gas is detected, a first state may be triggered or the air treatment device 1 may be activated. After removing the gas, a second state may then be triggered or the air treatment device 1 deactivated. Furthermore, the sensor means 107 may comprise at least one sensor 107a detecting the opening of the opening and closing device 104 of the household appliance 100. Thus, when the switching device 104 is opened, the second state may be triggered or the air treatment device 1 may be deactivated. After the opening and closing device 104 has been closed, the first state may be triggered or the air treatment device 1 may be activated.

According to another advantageous embodiment, a timer device 108 is provided. Such timer means 108 may preferably be integrated into the control means 103 or may also be provided as another means in the domestic appliance 100. The first status signal and/or the second status signal may be generated based on a predetermined point in time or a predetermined interval of time. The time the first state is activated and the duration of the first state can be predetermined.

The control means 103 comprise memory means 109 in which a specific sequence program is stored. Such a sequential program may include sequential actuation of particular devices (such as the gas flow device 11 or the treatment apparatus 3) or the actuation strengths of these devices.

In known dishwashers, the disinfection is performed, for example, using a suitable washing program. No air purification or disinfection of the air in the tub has been provided as in the present invention. For example, in a dishwasher, the present air treatment device may also be implemented in another pass through the drying program.

In summary, the present air treatment device provides the greatest cost efficiency. Accommodating the treatment device and the basic components of the air treatment device in a housing (also referred to as "common cartridge") and further using an extremely flexible supply or discharge device creates a large number of implementation options for household appliances, such as dishwashers (inlet and outlet positioning). Due to the previous special design of air treatment devices in household appliances, it was not possible to maximize the utilization of the same type of components, in particular those that are expensive. All cost-driven components such as UV-LEDs, drivers, photocatalysts and the like are housed in a housing or "common core box" so that a modular air treatment device is provided that can be used in a plurality of household appliances. The compact design allows implementation at any available location in the device.

The applicant reserves the right to claim all the features disclosed in the application documents as essential to the invention, provided that these are more novel than the prior art, individually or in combination. It is further noted that features which may be advantageous per se are also described in the individual figures. One skilled in the art will immediately recognize that a particular feature depicted in one drawing may also be advantageous without the need to employ other features from that drawing. Those skilled in the art will further appreciate that advantages may also be derived from combinations of features shown in individual or different figures.

List of reference numerals

1 air treatment device

2 first case

2a upper inner wall

2b air inlet hole

2c air outlet hole

3 treatment device

4 supply device

4a air inlet hole

5 discharge device

5a air outlet hole

6 through channel

7 radiation source device

7a radiation source

8 photo-catalytic device

8a photocatalytic surface

8b photocatalytic surface area with photocatalytic material

9 Carrier device

10 air flow

11 airflow device

12 second casing

12a main part

12b conveying part

13 dehumidifying device

14 arrow head

15 rotor

100 household appliance

101 casing

102 container device

102a outlet hole

102b inlet hole

103 control device

104 switching device

105 side wall

105a lateral side wall

105b rear side wall

106 input device

107 sensor device

107a sensor

108 timer device

109 memory device

200 communication device

201 wireless connection

Longitudinal axis of an X air treatment apparatus

Width axis of Y air treatment equipment

Z altitude axis of air treatment device

Longitudinal axis of X' treatment apparatus

Width axis of Y' treatment apparatus

Height axis of Z' treatment apparatus

Claims

1. An air treatment device (1) for a household appliance (100) with container means (102), characterized in that the air treatment device (1) comprises a first housing (2) in which at least one treatment device (3) is arranged, the air treatment device (1) having a supply means (4) and a discharge means (5), the supply means (4) being arranged and adapted to direct an air flow (10) to the treatment device (3), the discharge means (5) being arranged and adapted to direct an air flow (10) away from the treatment device (3), wherein the at least one treatment device (3) comprises a through channel (6) for the air flow (10), radiation source means (7) and photocatalytic means (8).

2. The air treatment apparatus (1) according to claim 1, wherein the radiation source device (7) emits electromagnetic radiation, wherein the photocatalytic device (8) is exposable to at least part of the electromagnetic radiation to produce a photocatalytic reaction, the photocatalytic device (8) comprising a photocatalytic surface (8a) comprising at least one photocatalytic material, the photocatalytic material being a semiconductor and the photocatalytic material comprising titanium (IV) oxide TiO₂。

3. The air treatment apparatus (1) according to claim 2, wherein the radiation source device (7) comprises at least one radiation source (7a), the at least one radiation source (7a) is a Light Emitting Diode (LED), the radiation source device (7) emits electromagnetic radiation having a wavelength of less than 400nm, and the radiation source device (7) emits electromagnetic radiation having a wavelength in the range of 380nm to 315 nm.

4. An air treatment device (1) according to claim 3, characterized in that the at least one radiation source (7a) is arranged on a carrier means (9), the carrier means (9) being plate-shaped, the carrier means (9) being arranged substantially opposite the photocatalytic means (8), and the through-going passage (6) for the air flow (10) being provided between the carrier means (9) and the photocatalytic means (8).

5. An air treatment device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one air flow means (11) is provided, by means of which air flow means (11) the air flow (10) can be generated into and/or out of the air treatment device (1), the supply means (4) having an air inlet aperture (4a) and the treatment device (3) having an air outlet aperture (5a), the at least one air flow means (11) generating a negative pressure at the at least one air inlet aperture (4a), and the air flow (10) being able to be generated into the at least one air inlet aperture (4a) as a result of this negative pressure.

6. An air treatment device (1) according to claim 5, characterized in that the air flow means (11) are at least partially integrated into the first housing (2) of the air treatment device (1).

7. An air treatment device (1) according to claim 5, characterized in that the air flow means (11) is arranged on the first housing (2) of the air treatment device (11), that the air flow means (11) comprises a second housing (12) sealingly arranged on the first housing (2), and that the second housing (12) is arranged between the first housing (2) of the air treatment device (1) and the supply means (4).

8. An air treatment device (1) according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the supply means (4) and/or the discharge means (5) are designed as a hose, the supply means (4) and/or the discharge means (5) being made of a flexible material, wherein the length of the supply means (4) and/or the discharge means (5) is designed such that liquid is largely prevented from entering the first housing (2) when the air treatment device (1) is arranged in height direction (Z) above the inlet and outlet apertures of the container means (102).

9. An air treatment device (1) according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the air treatment device (1) comprises a dehumidifying means (13), the dehumidifying means (13) being arranged in the first housing (2), and the dehumidifying means (13) comprising a heating means.

10. A household appliance (100) comprising at least one air treatment device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims 1 to 9, wherein the household appliance (100) comprises a housing (101) and a container means (102) provided therein.

11. A household appliance (100) as in claim 9, characterized by at least one control device (103), the at least one control device (103) controlling components of the air treatment apparatus.

12. A household appliance (100) as in claim 11, characterized by the control means (103) being able to receive or generate a first status signal related to a first status of the air treatment device (1), the control means (103) being able to receive or generate a second status signal related to a second status of the air treatment device (1), wherein the air treatment device (1) is activatable in the first status and the air treatment device (1) is deactivatable in the second status.

13. A household appliance (100) according to claim 12, characterized in that at least one input device (106) is provided, by means of which the first status signal and/or the second status signal can be generated, the input device (106) sending the first status signal and/or the second status signal to the at least one control device (103), whereupon the control device (103) initiates the first status or the second status of the air treatment device (1), and the input device (106) being able to receive the first status signal and/or the second status signal from an external communication device (200) of a user.

14. Household appliance (100) according to claim 12 or 13, wherein said at least one control device (103) generates said first status signal and/or said second status signal based on sensor data from a sensor device (107), said sensor device (107) comprising at least one sensor (107a) detecting a loading status in said container device, said sensor device (107) comprising at least one sensor (107a) detecting a specific gas in the air in said container device, and said sensor device (107) comprising at least one sensor (107a) detecting the opening of a switching device.

15. Household appliance (100) according to one of the claims 12 to 14, characterized in that a timer device (108) is provided, wherein the first status signal and/or the second status signal can be generated based on a given point in time or a given time interval.