EP2324152A1

EP2324152A1 - Device for cleaning a component, in particular an evaporator of a condenser device

Info

Publication number: EP2324152A1
Application number: EP09780362A
Authority: EP
Inventors: Frank Kohlrusch; Oliver Wuttge; Martin Baurmann; Günter Steffens
Original assignee: BSH Bosch und Siemens Hausgeraete GmbH
Current assignee: BSH Hausgeraete GmbH
Priority date: 2008-07-11
Filing date: 2009-07-09
Publication date: 2011-05-25
Anticipated expiration: 2029-07-09
Also published as: CN102089470A; US20110114135A1; EA201170178A1; US9512554B2; EA018526B1; WO2010003999A1; DE102008032800A1; EP2324152B1; ATE538238T1; CN102089470B

Abstract

A device that has a component within a process air circuit of a washer dryer or tumble dryer; a condensate water trough in which condensate water is collected that is formed in the process air circuit as a result of drying damp laundry; and a first lever arm rotatably fastened to a rinse tank above the component. The component is to be cleaned and the condensate water is conducted from the condensate water trough to the rinse tank. Further, the condensate water is dispensed from an outlet opening of the rinse tank to the component. The rinse tank has a closure to selectively open and close the outlet opening and an actuator to actuate the closure. Also, the closure has a sealing head that is connected to the first lever arm and that closes the outlet opening.

Description

Device for cleaning a component, in particular an evaporator of a capacitor device

The invention relates to a device with a arranged within a process air circulation of a washing or tumble dryer to be cleaned component, in particular an evaporator of a condenser device, and with a condensate water tub, in which in the process air cycle by drying wet laundry resulting condensate trappable, from this can be conveyed to a rinsing container provided above the evaporator and can be dispensed therefrom from an exit opening to the component to be cleaned. The invention further relates to a method of operating such a device.

A method and a device of the abovementioned type for removing lint from a condensation water separator designed as a heat exchanger are already known (DE 37 38 031 C2). In the known method concerned and in the device provided for its implementation, a relatively small amount of about one-half liter of condensed water is used to rinse off once the plates of the envisaged capacitor device. The purging process takes about 30 seconds. However, in order to effectively remove fluff from the condenser device which has been left hanging in the condenser device in question when drying wet laundry, a relatively strong flushing of the condenser device is required. However, this requires the use of a relatively strong pump that pumps the condensate water from the condensate water tank to the existing flushing out. However, there is sometimes the desire to avoid such a high cost and get along with a simpler arrangement to clean a arranged within a process air cycle of a washer or dryer component, in particular an evaporator of a condenser device by means of trapped in a condensate water tank condensate water.

A device for cleaning the evaporator of a condenser device in a tumble dryer is also known (EP 0 468 573 A1). In this known device, the existing of a plurality of mutually parallel slats evaporator of the condenser device on its a condensate water tank be cleaned opposite side by means of a cleaning device. This cleaning device consists of a reciprocating comb-like Bürstenbzw. Bristle arrangement, which is additionally supplied in the condensate water tank condensate water. In this known device, however, the cleaning of the evaporator of the condenser device is relatively poor, since the comb-shaped cleaning device is only able to clean the upper portion of the evaporator of the condenser device, but not the underlying, much larger area. This could possibly be cleaned by providing the comb-like cleaning device with bristles extending over the entire depth of the evaporator. However, this would, if it would work at all, because of the associated considerable friction between the bristles of the comb-like cleaning device and the side walls of the slats of the evaporator require a relatively large amount of energy and thus a relatively high expenditure on equipment. However, such an effort is considered undesirable.

There are also a method and a household tumble dryer for cleaning a portion of a guide of a process air stream known (DE 199 43 125 A1). In this case, a blower for generating the process air stream is provided, which can be brought into contact with the laundry to be dried for the absorption of moisture in a drying room. Outside a drying phase in which the process air stream is generated by means of the blower and brought into contact with the laundry to be dried in the drying room, in a cleaning phase with the blower switched off, a section of the process air duct is at least partially flooded with a liquid for a certain period of time. This liquid is then removed from the flooded section of the process air duct at the end of the cleaning phase. The liquid in question is, in particular, condensate liquid from a condensate container in which condensate water is collected during the drying of the laundry, which is obtained from the drying of wet laundry. In order to be able to carry out the aforementioned flooding of said one section of the process air guide, this is to be sealed by means of a sealing arrangement which, however, is sometimes regarded as undesirable because of the associated expense. So it is looking for a simpler solution for cleaning a arranged within a process air cycle of a washer or dryer components. The invention is therefore based on the object to show a way, as in a particularly simple manner arranged within a process air cycle of a washing or tumble dryer component, in particular an evaporator of a condenser device can be cleaned by rinse water even more efficient than previously known and as previously proposed, without the need for any significant effort is required.

The object is achieved by means of a device and a method according to the respective independent claims. Advantageous embodiments are in particular the dependent claims.

The device is provided with a arranged within a process air cycle of a washer or dryer to be cleaned component, in particular an evaporator of a condenser device, as well as with a condensate water tank, in which in the process air cycle by drying wet laundry resulting condensate water, from this to a provided above the evaporator Spülbehälter hinleitbar and can be issued from this from an outlet opening to the component to be cleaned.

The rinsing container has a closure part for selectively opening and closing the outlet opening and an actuator for actuating the closure part. The closure part has a sealing head for closing the outlet opening, which is connected to a first lever arm rotatably mounted on the washing container.

The invention has the advantage that, by the use of the lever arm, a movement of the sealing head is very flexibly adjustable to properties of an actuator moving the closure part. Thus, the force-stroke characteristic of an actuator can be correlated with the effective force arm to obtain a sufficient stroke with sufficiently fast opening movement. As a result, in particular fast switching actuators can be used, which, however, if necessary, can develop only a small force for larger strokes or have only a small stroke. Consequently, a surge of water for cleaning the component to be cleaned can be generated particularly effectively. In addition, no complex force transmission means between the actuator and the sealing head to be used, whereby the structure is inexpensive and repair-insensitive. By means of such a fast-switching valve or closure part with a high lift, it is therefore possible to generate a discharge of the condensate water from the rinsing container as a flood of water, optionally with additional delivery of pressurized tap water to the component in question, in order to achieve an inside Process air cycle of a washer or dryer arranged component, in particular an evaporator of a condenser device to be able to clean more efficient than previously known and as previously proposed, in particular of lint that have accumulated there during a drying wet laundry. Assuming, for example, a condensate water amount of 2.5 liters, which is collected in the washing, an efficient cleaning of the component or evaporator of the condenser device is achieved in that this amount of condensate is dispensed bubbly within a period of about 1 s to 2 s , In the case of dispensing 2.5 liters of condensate water within 1 s, this corresponds to a discharge volume of 150 liters / min condensate water. In the case of the assumed condensate water delivery within 2 seconds, this corresponds to a condensate water output of 75 liters / min. Such amounts of water could - if you want to use a pump pump - incidentally, only with a relatively large volume and powerful pump delivery, but their use in washing or dryers for the promotion of condensate water for cleaning there arranged within process air circuits components, namely in particular of evaporators of capacitor devices is not likely to come into question. Due to the additional delivery of the pressurized tap water to the component to be cleaned at a common tap water pressure of z. B. 3 bar achieved an even more efficient cleaning of the subject to be cleaned component.

Preferably, the actuator for actuating the closure part is arranged and arranged to give up a force (force component or torque) on the first lever arm.

Preferably, the actuator is a fast switching actuator to quickly release an exit port to make the surge of water to the component to be cleaned effectively. Particularly preferably, the actuator has a lifting magnet, since a solenoid can switch quickly and is compact and inexpensive. However, the invention is not on limited; Thus, a piezoelectric actuator, a magnetostrictive actuator, a fast-moving servomotor, etc. can be used. It is also possible to use a bistable spring, which can switch over by means of a suitable (eg electromechanical or thermal) drive for actuating the closure part.

It is further preferred if the stroke of the actuator required for the effective opening of the closure part is passed through in less than 2 s, more preferably in less than 0.5 s, particularly preferably in less than 0.2 s.

Preferably, a lifting movement of the actuator is applied via a plunger on the closure part, as a simple and low-maintenance power transmission is possible.

Preferably, a stroke of the actuator is a maximum of 30 mm, in particular a maximum of 25 mm. The actuator can be provided with a lifting amplifier, z. B. with a reinforcing mechanical Hubübertrager.

The first lever arm is preferably arranged in the rinsing container, since a simple closure part can thus be realized. The actuator can act directly on the first lever arm or on the sealing head. For this purpose, the actuator may be provided in the washing or be performed by the washing to the first lever arm or sealing head.

However, the device preferably further comprises a second lever arm outside of the condensate container, which is coupled to the first lever arm, wherein the actuator is adapted to actuate the second lever arm. The actuator thus acts indirectly on the first lever arm. As a result, the actuator does not need to be arranged in the washing container, whereby this and its electrical connections need not be performed waterproof and also no useful volume is wasted in the washing. By the two levers, a lever system is provided at least for opening, by means of which the solenoid exerts a force on the second, outer lever arm (serving as a force arm) which is transmitted to the first, inner lever arm (serving as a load arm) through which following movement of the sealing head is lifted from the outlet opening. The two lever arms are preferably connected to each other via a common shaft, which serves as a rotatable support.

Preferably, the first lever arm and the second lever arm via a Klauenkupp- ment, in particular coded jaw clutch, coupled together, which is preferably provided in the shaft.

The two levers can be connected to one another in particular in the washing container by means of a passage opening, in particular a lateral passage opening. In particular, but no passage opening in the bottom of the washing compartment needs to be provided, as it is z. B. is necessary when using a guided through the bottom poppet valve.

Preferably, at least one sealing element for sealing the passage opening between the two lever arms is present, for. B. on the first lever arm or on the second lever arm to prevent unwanted leakage of water from the washing through the passage opening.

Preferably, at least one spring element for urging the closure part on the outlet opening ("return spring") is further provided to ensure a secure seal when not activated actuator, for. B. a torsion spring. In principle, other seal support elements can be used; Thus, in addition to a return spring, for example, an additional weight as a load on the closure part into consideration. An advantage of the return spring, however, is that it closes the outlet opening regardless of the position of the washing container. Thus, the washing container can be removed from the dryer and handled by a user without the risk of unintentional opening of the outlet opening.

Preferably, the washing compartment can be removed and the actuator is attached to a receiving opening leading to the washing compartment. As a result, the actuator does not need to be removed from the dryer, which allows easy attachment and electrical contact. In the method for operating such a device, an actuation of the actuator for opening the outlet opening exerts a force or a torque directly or indirectly on the first lever arm, on the basis of which the first lever arm lifts the sealing head from the outlet opening. In an indirect application of force to the first lever arm of the actuator engages a force transmission element which is connected to the first lever arm so that the power transmission element directly applied to the force or torque is transmitted to the first lever arm. The force transmission element is preferably a second lever arm, which then serves as a force arm, while the first lever arm serves as a load arm. The two lever arms are preferably connected to one another via a common shaft, which serves as a rotatable support, possibly via a coupling, in particular a coded claw coupling.

The condensate water from the rinsing container or a rinsing chamber of a collecting container having these and an overflow region serving as a storage chamber is preferably delivered to the relevant component by its sudden opening on the outlet side as a rush of water and / or pressurized tap water.

It should be noted here that tap water available in domestic water is understood to mean tap water which is normally supplied at a tap water pressure of at least 3 bar, but sometimes at a higher pressure, e.g. is provided with 6 bar.

Preferably, the flow of water to be dispensed to the component is largely equalized in its delivery quantity between the beginning and the end of the delivery. This results in the advantage of a relatively uniform rinsing effect between the beginning and the end of the discharge of the water ripple on or in the component to be cleaned.

According to a further expedient embodiment of the present invention, in an evaporator forming a condenser of a condenser device, the water surge and optionally the pressurized tap water are delivered to an evaporator region which is preferably located only at a defined distance from the inlet region of the process air into the evaporator. This brings with it the advantage that in the entire inlet region of the evaporator usually increasingly occurring deposits in the form of lint can be effectively removed. The discharge of water is preferably carried out immediately after completion of a drying operation of wet laundry to be dried, since at this time on the mentioned component or evaporator of the capacitor device adhering contaminants, especially lint, are still wet and are relatively easily removed by the dispensed rinse liquid ,

According to another expedient development of the present invention, in the case of an evaporator of a condenser device which forms the named component, the discharge of the water surge and optionally of the pressurized tap water under mechanical, hydraulic, pneumatic or electromechanical distraction from an initial region provided at the inlet region of the process air into the evaporator up to a distance from it in the direction of the outlet region of the process air from the evaporator end region made. This results in the advantage that a cleaning of the component to be cleaned, in particular the evaporator of a capacitor device can be made in a relatively simple manner over a definable range. The area in question may extend from the inlet region of the process air into the evaporator up to its exit region from the evaporator. The flushing water discharge is also carried out in this case preferably immediately after completion of a drying operation of wet laundry to be dried, since at this time on the mentioned component or evaporator of the capacitor device adhering contaminants, especially lint, are still wet and easily removed by the bubbly dispensed rinsing liquid are.

Conveniently, the condensate water is pumped by means of a pump from the condensate water tank into the washing or flushing chamber of said collecting container. This represents a relatively simple possibility for the provision of the condensate water, which is discharged as a surge water for cleaning the component formed in particular by an evaporator of a capacitor device. It is advantageously done with a relatively small and low-performance pump to pump the condensate water from the condensate water tank in the washing. The performance of such a pump is clearly, in particular of the order of magnitude below the capacity of a pump, as described in the beginning of the has been mentioned in connection with the basic embodiment of the present invention.

For carrying out the method, a device is preferably provided with a component to be cleaned, in particular an evaporator of a condenser device, arranged inside a process air circuit of a washing or tumble dryer, and with a condensate water pan, into which condensate water arising in the process air cycle by drying damp laundry can be trapped, from this to a provided above the evaporator collecting container is conductive and can be delivered from this to the relevant component. This device is preferably characterized in that the said container as rinsing container (or as a rinsing chamber of this and a storage chamber comprising overflow area comprising collecting container) provided on its (or its) exit side a closure part, by its (or their) abrupt Opening the rinsing container or the rinsing chamber allows the condensate water contained in it or in it to surge through a downpipe to said component, and that alternatively or additionally to the discharge of the condensate water from the rinsing container or the rinsing chamber, a pressurized tap water leading feed pipe On the output side, the tap water in question is allowed to be delivered to the named component.

This brings with it the advantage of a particularly low device expense for particularly efficient cleaning of a component arranged within a process air cycle of a washer or dryer, in particular of an evaporator of a condenser device. By suddenly opening the rinsing container on its outlet side, the condensate water collected in the rinsing container can be quickly released into the component to be cleaned in an efficient manner as a rush of water, without the need for additional equipment. In addition to the delivery of the water surge to the component to be cleaned can be delivered to this under pressure for cleaning tap water. In the case of additional cleaning of said component by means of pressurized tap water can be achieved as a result of the normally at least 3 bar amount of tap water pressure a particularly intensive cleaning effect. Conveniently, said downpipe on a region which is narrowed relative to the cross section of the outlet region of the washing or the Spülkammer. As a result, a good homogenization of the surge water discharge between the beginning and the termination can be achieved in a relatively simple manner.

According to a further expedient embodiment of the invention, in an evaporator of a condenser device forming the said component, the water surge and / or the pressurized tap water are connected to a preferably only at a fixed distance from the inlet region of the process air into the evaporator by means of a downpipe connected, fixedly arranged Flüldüse deliverable. This brings with it the advantage of a particularly effective cleaning of the main area of the evaporator to be cleaned, into which the process air enters and above all deposits impurities such as lint.

According to another expedient development of the present invention, the flushing nozzle and / or the downpipe during the delivery of the water surge and / or the pressurized tap water by a mechanically, hydraulically, pneumatically or electromechanically operated deflection of a at the inlet region of the process air into the evaporator of Capacitor means located initial region up to a distance from it in the direction of the outlet region of the process air from the evaporator lying end region distractable. This brings with it the advantage that the evaporator of the condenser device can be cleaned by a defined length, which in particular can be its entire length, through which it is flowed through by the process air, by the said water surge.

The rinsing container or the rinsing chamber is expediently connected to the condensate water trough by means of a pump. This has the advantage that the rinsing container or the rinsing chamber can be filled with condensate water in a relatively simple manner.

The task is logically by means of a clothes dryer, z. As a washing or tumble dryer, solved with a device of the type mentioned above. It should be noted here that a washer dryer is a combination device is understood, which has a washing function for washing laundry and a Drying function for drying wet laundry has. In contrast, a tumble dryer only has a drying function for drying wet laundry.

Reference to the accompanying drawings, the present invention is explained below by way of example and schematically.

In the drawing show

11 shows a schematic illustration of a device according to a first embodiment

embodiment,

2A in an enlarged view and partly in section a provided in the apparatus of FIG. 1 washing compartment,

FIG. 2B shows the rinsing container according to FIG. 2A with an associated closure part in plan view; FIG.

FIG. 3 shows the rinsing container according to FIG. 1 in an oblique view with the associated closure part and an actuator actuating the closure part; FIG.

4 shows the closure part in side view;

5A in a schematic representation of a plan view of an evaporator of a capacitor device, as provided in the device shown in Figure 1,

5B shows an arrangement, by means of which the condensate water released from the rinsing container in the device according to FIG. 1 can be dispensed over a definable area of the evaporator of the condenser device,

Fig. 6 is a schematic representation of a device according to a second

embodiment,

Fig. 7 in an enlarged view and partly in section a in the

Device provided according to FIG. 6, containing condensate water, inserted into a device body and largely closed on its upper side by a lid washing container,

8 in an enlarged view of the washing container shown in Fig. 7 in a partially pulled out of the mentioned device body state, 9 shows an oblique view of a partial section of the washing container shown in FIGS. 7 and 8, as it is inserted into a possible guiding device, and FIG. 10 shows the washing container of FIG. 9 in a partially extended state.

Before referring to the drawing, it should first be noted that the same elements or devices in all drawing figures are denoted by the same reference numerals.

The device shown in a schematic representation in FIG. 1 according to the first embodiment is contained in a washing or tumble dryer, of which in Fig. 1, however, only the parts essential for an understanding of the present representation are shown. One of these parts is above all a washing or laundry drum WT to be dried, which is to be dried, and a process air flow arrangement connected thereto, which is considered in more detail below, through which process air flows in the direction of the arrows indicated in FIG.

The process air flow arrangement comprises a series of process air ducts LU 1, LU 2, LU 3 and LU 4 as well as devices connected thereto, namely a blower GB, a heating device HE and an evaporator EV of a capacitor device (not illustrated here). The evaporator EV is connected on the outlet side via a serving as a transition part funnel-shaped connection TR1 with the one end of the process air duct LU 1, which cold, dry process air is supplied and which is connected at its other end to an input port of the blower GB. This fan GB is the output side connected via the process air duct LU2 to the input side of the heater HE, which is connected on the output side through the process air duct LU3 to the input side of the washing or laundry drum WT for the supply of now hot, dry process air. On the output side, the washing or laundry drum WT for discharging hot moist process air, which is discharged from it to be dried wet laundry, through the process air duct LU4 and an adjoining, also serving as a transition part funnel-shaped connection TR2 with the inlet side of the evaporator EV connected. In this evaporator EV, condensation of the moisture of the hot, moist process air supplied by the process air duct LU4 from the washing or laundry drum WT takes place. The resulting condensate in the evaporator EV occurs as shown in FIG. 1 indicated, in the form of water droplets in a arranged below the evaporator EV Kondensatwasserwanne KW, in which it is collected.

The condensate water collected in the condensate water tank KW must now be removed from it so that it does not overflow there. For this purpose, the condensate water tank KW is connected in the present case by a connecting channel K1 with the input side of an electric pump P1, which may be, for example, an impeller. On the output side, the pump P1 is connected by a connecting channel K2 to the input side of a distributor VE, which in the present case may be a controllable two-way valve. The respective distributor or the two-way valve VE has two output terminals, one of which is connected to a connecting channel K3 and whose other is connected to a connecting channel K4.

The connection channel K3 serves to discharge condensate water discharged through it and pumped up from the condensate water tub KW by means of the pump P1 into a separate storage container SP1 provided in the upper region of the washing or tumble dryer containing the device. This storage container SP1 can be, for example, a storage container which can be removed manually from the washing or tumble dryer, in which the described device is contained, by means of which the condensate water pumped up from the condensate water tub KW can be disposed of.

The connecting channel K4 is used on the output side to deliver it from the distributor or two-way valve VE supplied condensate water to a washing container SB1. This rinse tank SB1, which is arranged as far as possible at the top of the washing or tumble dryer shown in the device and which may have the same storage capacity as the condensate water sump KW or the storage tank SP1, for example, for the absorption of 2.5 liters of condensate, is safe - as shown - provided with an overflow arrangement, which passes from the rinse tank SB1 optionally overflowing condensate water in a Ü- overflow container UB, which is directly connected by a return duct RK with the condensate water sump KW and in it reaching condensate water to the condensate water sump KW deliver can. On the other hand, the condensate water collected in the condensate water sump KW can be pumped down into a connection channel K6 through a connection channel K5 by means of an electric pump P2, which may likewise be an impeller pump, for example, leading to a waste water disposal arrangement such as to a water drainage line can.

The rinse tank SB1 is connected to a discharge pipe FR via a normally closed closure part VT1, which is to be opened by actuation or activation. This drop tube FR, which has a relatively large cross-section, preferably has a drop height of approximately 500 mm to 600 mm for the length defining the condensate water to be dispensed from the rinse tank SB1 in each case. It is provided at its lower end in FIG. 1 with a fixed location, an approximately oval-shaped outlet area extending over the entire width of the evaporator EV with a width of approximately 6 mm to 10 mm and having the longitudinal center of its exit area at a fixed distance, which here is about 10 mm to 50 mm, from the right in Fig. 1 inlet region of the evaporator EV for hot, moist process air is arranged. By means of this arrangement of downpipe FR and rinsing nozzle DU, condensate water emerging from the rinsing container SB1 when the closure part VT1 is opened can be delivered as a water surge to an evaporator region preferably located only at the specified distance from the inlet region of the process air into the evaporator EV. The dimensions of the passage opening of the closure part VT1 and the cross section of the downpipe FR and the rinsing nozzle DU are preferably selected so that the collected in the rinse tank SB1 condensate - ie according to the example above assumed about 2.5 liters of condensate - within a very short period of time from 1 to 2 seconds is given as water surge to the evaporator EV. By delivering such a water surge, ie at a speed of at least 2.5 liters in 2 seconds, and preferably immediately after performing a drying operation of the wet laundry, which is in the washing or laundry drum WT for drying, it succeeds particularly effective way to wash away from said process air inlet area of the evaporator EV and beyond this area lint and other impurities which have been supplied there through the process air duct LU4 and the funnel-shaped port TR2. In order to achieve a substantially uniform discharge amount of the water surge between the beginning and the end of its delivery, it has proved to be expedient if the downpipe FR has a region to which the rinsing nozzle DU belongs, which relates to the cross section of the outlet region of the washing container SB1 is narrowed. However, it should be ensured that the minimum amount of condensate water specified above per unit of time is provided for purging the evaporator EV.

In addition to the aforementioned surge-like discharge of the condensate water respectively contained in the purge tank SB1 to the evaporator EV, ordinary pressurized tap water may be discharged for cleaning. For this purpose, a water inlet pipe WA is provided to which the respective pressurized tap water is supplied. 1, a closure part VT2 is connected to the delivery side of the relevant water supply pipe WA, which can be, for example, a normal shut-off valve. On the outlet side of the closure part VT2 a Wasserabführrohr ZR is provided, which projects into the lower region of the downpipe FR in this, so according to FIG. 1 above the flushing nozzle DU of the respective downpipe FR. In this way, the tap water, in addition to the bubbly discharged from the rinse tank SB1 condensate water for cleaning the evaporator EV can be delivered, or it can be discharged alone to the evaporator EV for its purification. In order to avoid an overflow of the condensate water sump KW, the condensate water collected in the washing container SB1 can be pumped off with the aid of the aforementioned pumps P1 and P2. It is clear that by means of the pump P1 only such a portion of the condensate water collected in the condensate water sump KW1 is pumped, which corresponds to the capacity of the washing container SB1 and / or the storage container SP1. The exceeding proportion of condensate water, which is discharged to the condensate water tank KW, is pumped by means of the pump P2 in the mentioned drain arrangement.

By this particular additional delivery of tap water for cleaning the evaporator EV can be very well cleaned. The dispensing of tap water in question for cleaning the evaporator EV is particularly important in a washer-dryer which is in any case connected via a tap water inlet. device and a tap water drainage device has. By a combined delivery of pressurized tap water and the flashed out of the purge tank SB1 condensate water even more efficient cleaning of the evaporator EV is achieved as by sole delivery of tap water or condensate water to this evaporator EV.

On the other hand, however, the first embodiment of the device shown in FIG. 1 can also be used in a tumble dryer in which only wet laundry is to be dried. In this case, the tumble dryer in question - which normally manages without a connection to a water inlet and a water drain - to supply in the water inlet pipe WA with tap water, ie to connect to a corresponding tap water connection, and moreover that shown in Fig. 1 Connecting channel K6 to connect to a Abwasserabführanordnung. With regard to the cleaning of the evaporator EV with condensate water from the rinse tank SB1 and possibly tap water, the tumble dryer then has the same conditions as previously explained in connection with a washer-dryer.

For controlling the various devices shown in Fig. 1 as mentioned above, a controller ST is provided. This control device ST may include, for example, a microcontroller with its own software or a microprocessor control with a CPU, a ROM containing an operating program and a work program and a RAM RAM and interface circuits to which the input side actuating signals are supplied and the output control signals to the various devices allow to submit the device shown in Fig. 1.

According to FIG. 1, the control device ST has, for example, two input terminals E1 and E2 to which switches S1 and S2 are connected, each of which is connected to a voltage terminal U, which for example may carry a voltage of + 5V. On the output side, the control device ST in the present case, for example, eight output terminals AO, A1, A2, A3, A4a, A4b, A5a and A6.

The output terminal AO is connected to a control input of the pump P2, by their operation in the condensate water tank KW collected condensate water through the connecting channels K5 and K6 can be pumped to a waste water receiving device, such as a drain pipe.

The output terminal A1 of the control device ST is connected to a control input of the blower GB, which can be switched on or off by him on this control input supplied control signals.

The output terminal A2 of the control device ST is connected to a corresponding control input of the heating device HE, which can be switched on or off by the control input supplied control signals.

The output terminal A3 of the control device ST is connected via a connection to the washing or laundry drum WT, which is to be understood merely as an operative connection, which can be set in rotation or can be stopped in rotation via control signals output via the relevant connection. This means that the respective control signals from the output terminal A3 of the control device ST are delivered to an electric drive motor connected to the washing or laundry drum WT.

The output terminal A4a of the control device ST is connected to an actuating input of the closure part VT2, which is either closed or fully opened by the control signal supplied thereto from the output terminal A4a of the control device ST. But it is also possible that the closure part VT2, which, as mentioned above, may preferably be an electrically operated closure valve, is normally closed and only by a control signal output from the output terminal A4b of the control device ST (eg according to a binary signal). 1 ") is completely open.

The output terminal A4b of the control device ST is connected to an actuating input of the closure part VT, which is either closed or fully opened by the control signal supplied thereto from the output terminal A4b of the control device ST. However, it is also possible for the closure part VT to be normally closed and to be opened completely only by a control signal output by the output terminal A4 of the control device ST (eg corresponding to a binary signal "1"). The output terminal A5 of the control device ST is connected to a control or operating input of the distributor or two-way valve VE. By means of this connection to the closure part or two-way valve VE output control signals the relevant closure part or two-way valve VE him by the pump P1 from the condensate water tank KW supplied condensate either to the connection channel K3 or to the connection channel K4 or deliver such a delivery to both connection channels Lock K3 and K4.

The output terminal A6 of the control device ST is connected to a control input of said pump P1, which can be set on its supplied by this connection control signals either to a pumping process or stopped.

With regard to the above-considered control device ST with their input terminals E1 and E2 and output terminals AO to A6 should be noted that closing the connected to the input terminal E1 of the controller ST switch S1, for example, the normal drying operation of in the washing or Washing drum WT befindlicher wet laundry is initiated and carried out and that closing the connected to the input terminal E2 of the control device ST switch S2, the delivery of condensate water from the suddenly opened rinse tank SB1 is controlled as a surge of water to the evaporator EV. In this case, the actuation of the two switches S1 and S2 can only be vornehmbar so that only one of the two switches S1 and S2 can be actuated. The respective switches S1 and S2 can be formed, moreover, each by a push-button switch.

The provision of the condensate water in the rinse tank SB1 from the condensate water sump KW, for example, programmatically preferably during a drying operation or after its completion automatically or selectively by manual intervention in the program control of the device described holding washer or dryer done. In the case of such a manual intervention in the program control, the control device ST could be connected to a further input via a further switch (not shown) to the voltage terminal U. By taking place after completion of a drying process gushing the condensate contained in the washing water to the Evaporator EV are at its Lammellen LA (see Fig. 3) adhering lint and other contaminants easily washed away by the relatively high flow rate and the relatively large amount of condensate. If necessary, this flushing process can be repeated one or more times with the relevant condensate water. For this purpose, in each case the condensate water collected again in the condensate water tank KW is pumped up into the rinsing tank SB1, from which it is then once again delivered to the evaporator in the manner of a surge. After completion of the cleaning or rinsing process, the condensate water collected in the condensate water sump KW must either be discharged into an existing sewage system or pumped into the rinse tank SB2, which is then to be emptied manually.

In addition to the flushing process considered above, such a flushing operation and thus cleaning of the evaporator EV can be effected by pressurized tap water which is supplied to the relevant evaporator EV via the water inlet pipe WA, the closure part VT2 and the water outlet pipe ZR. In this case, as an alternative or in addition to the delivery of a control signal which opens the closure part VT1, the control device ST emits a corresponding control signal to the closure part VT2 to open it.

In Fig. 2A, the washing container SB1 schematically indicated in Fig. 1 is illustrated in an enlarged sectional view closer with its closure part VT1 in the closed position. The closure part VT1 shown only schematically in FIG. 1 is formed in accordance with FIG. 2 in that the flushing container SB1 has sealing regions or sealing lips DL around an outlet opening AU in the area of the downpipe FR connected to it, on which in the closed state of the closure part Sealing head DK rests sealingly with its underside. This sealing head DK has on its underside a sealing sleeve DM, which ensures a closure of the outlet opening AU and the downpipe FR against the washing container SB1 with attached sealing head DK. The sealing head DK is connected to a first lever arm H1. Sealing head DK and first lever arm H1 are preferably made in one piece, z. B. plastic by injection molding. The first lever arm H1 is rotatably mounted on opposite side walls of the washing container SB1. Lifting the sealing head DK from and lowering the outlet opening AU is thus accompanied by a pivoting movement of the first lever 1. For opening the closure part VT1 from its closing basic Position is a force (in the form of a linear force component or torque) exerted on the lever arm H1, as will now be described in more detail. By opening the closure part VT1, the condensate water contained in the rinse tank SB1 can be delivered as a water surge through the downpipe FR and the rinse nozzle DU to the evaporator EV according to FIG.

Fig. 2B shows the washing container SB1 in plan view from above. The plate-shaped sealing head DK is the upper side and the edge connected to the first lever arm H1. The lever arm H1 has to save weight while maintaining high rigidity on a strut-shaped structure, which merges at the opposite end to the sealing head DK in serving as a lever axis L1 shaft. The shaft L1 is rotatably supported at opposite positions of the side wall of the purge bin SB1. On one side, here: the lower side, a passage opening DO in the side wall of the washing container SB1 is provided, through which the first lever arm H1 is mechanically connected via a coded jaw clutch KK with a second lever arm H2 mounted externally on the washing container SB1. A sealing element DC, z. As an O-ring or a V-ring, is attached to either the inner lever H1 or the outer lever H2 and seals the lever construction VT1 against the rinse tank SB1, so that no water can get inside out. On an underside contact surface KF of the second, outer lever arm H2 sets an actuating unit for actuating the closure part VT1, as will now be described below.

Fig. 3 shows the rinse tank SB1 shown in dashed lines dashed lines. To open the closure part VT1 and thus to lift the sealing head DK from the outlet opening, a lifting magnet HM is activated by means of a control signal from the control device ST, so that it extends a plunger SO upward, which after an initial freewheel on the outer lever H2 the lower contact surface KF (see FIG. 2B) is contacted or engages and subsequently displaces upward. The rotational movement of serving as a force arm second lever arm H2 is transmitted via the jaw clutch KK on serving as a load arm first lever arm H1, which then rotates in the same direction, thereby lifting the sealing head DK. As a result, water present in the rinse tank SB1 can flow into the downpipe in a gush manner. To close the sealing head DK of the solenoid is deactivated again, so that he drives his plunger SO, whereupon the sealing head DK by its own weight and the weight of the first Lever arm H1 again the outlet opening AU is pressed. For safe closure of the sealing head DK is located on the shaft L1 here only indicated return spring RF, which urges the first lever arm H1 on the outlet opening.

The use of a lifting magnet HM is particularly suitable for the Ventilöffnungsaktorik shown. So he can be connected to mains voltage of z. B. 110 or 230 VAC and therefore does not need a separate power supply. In addition, by using a simple rectifier, z. B. a bridge rectifier, the solenoid also use in a DC configuration, which opens up the possibility of noise insulation, which is not possible with a pure AC solenoid. Impact sound between pole core and anchor can then be significantly reduced when operated with direct current solenoid, for example, by insulating plates between the armature and pole core. Furthermore, a solenoid HM has a fast opening time (typically about 100-400 ms), which is advantageous because the rinsing effect / water surge is based largely on the high kinetic energy of the water, which is located in the purge tank SB1. However, this energy can only be used effectively if the sealing head DK lifts off sufficiently quickly. The solenoid HM as such is also much cheaper compared to actuators.

The closure part VT1 shown, in contrast to other lever designs, has the further advantage that the actuator can be mounted externally to the rinse container SB1. In a - possible in principle - positioning of the actuator HM in the washing container SPB1 would disadvantageously (a) the actuator HM have to be designed waterproof and moisture-sealed, (b) an electrical contact via elaborate sliding contacts must be implemented and (c) the actuator in Tank SB1 occupy a large volume, which would reduce the effective Spülwasservolumen.

In addition to the speed of the actuator HM, however, the opening cross section to the downpipe also plays an important role, ie that the sealing head DK only has to open quickly enough, but also far enough. Here, the lifting magnet HM shows due to the available small space a certain disadvantage, since the force-displacement curve is increasingly unfavorable for strokes of more than about 15 mm. This means that the opening travel and the opening force on the sealing head DK must be coordinated with each other. The opening force (the force necessary to lift the sealing head) sets Among other things, the spring force of the return spring RF, the static water column on the sealing head DK and sliding and static friction forces together. These requirements can best be coordinated and implemented by means of a lever construction, in particular by means of the lever construction shown with the first, inner lever H1 and the second, outer lever H2, as will now be explained in more detail with reference to FIG.

4 shows the closure part VT1 in side view without the rinsing container. The effective load IL of the lever arm H1 between the lever axis L1 and the center of the sealing head DK is 115 mm in the illustrated embodiment. The effective force arm IK of the lever arm H2 between the lever axis L1 and the contact surface with the plunger SO of the lifting magnet HM is 65 mm. The plunger SO must bridge between its retracted ground state and the contact with the second lever H2 at the contact surface a free stroke hθ of 4 mm. The maximum stroke dx2 then exerted by the lifting magnet HM used here on the second lever H2 is 21 mm. The different effective arms IK, IL result in a maximum stroke dx1 at the first lever arm H1 of approx. 37 mm, which roughly reflects the aspect ratio IL / IK, whereby geometrical corrections are not taken into account for a simple description. By using the lever-supported closure part VT1, the disadvantage of the lifting magnet HM, namely its non-optimal force-displacement characteristic curve for longer stroke distances, can be eliminated and at the same time a structurally advantageous position of the actuator HM outside the washing compartment can be realized. Overall, results in a compact, fast switching, easy to install and wide-opening closure device VT1.

FIG. 5A shows a schematic representation of a top view of the evaporator EV in the device shown in FIG. 1. It can be seen from Fig. 5A that the evaporator EV consists of a series of mutually parallel slats LA. These lamellae LA are formed by metal plates, which are cooled in said condenser device in such a way that moisture of the moist process air supplied to them from the right side in FIG. 5A precipitates on the cold surfaces of the lamellae LA and, as indicated in FIG. 1, leads to the discharge of condensate water and / or tap water to the condensate water tank KW shown there. In Fig. 5A, the stationary position of the flushing nozzle DU is indicated with respect to the evaporator EV. Whereas in the evaporator EV shown in FIGS. 1 and 5A, the rinsing nozzle DU is in each case arranged stationarily with respect to the evaporator EV, FIG. 5B shows a device in which the rinsing nozzle DU is displaceable relative to the evaporator EV, ie can be deflected more precisely. According to FIG. 5B, a drive device is provided above the evaporator EV of the mentioned capacitor device, which consists of an electric motor MO controllable by the control device ST, a threaded spindle GW rotatable by the latter and a nut part MU coupled thereto, which in the present case is connected to the Flush nozzle DU is connected. The threaded spindle GW is, as indicated in FIG. 5B, carried on its end remote from the motor MO by a support bearing SL.

According to FIG. 5B, the flushing nozzle DU is connected to the downpipe FR by a movable connection part BV, which can be formed, for example, by a bellows part or a corrugated hose. As a result of this displaceability of the flushing nozzle DU relative to the evaporator EV, the flushing nozzle DU can, during the delivery of a water surge and / or of tap water, be from an initial region located at the inlet region of the process air into the evaporator EV of the condenser device up to a distance away from it in the direction towards the Outlet region of the process air from the evaporator EV lying end region are deflected. This means that the fins LA of the evaporator EV according to FIG. 5A can be rinsed over a defined length, for example over their entire length, by means of the condensate water discharged through the downpipe FR and the rinsing nozzle DU and / or from tap water.

In addition, it should be noted that the aforementioned surge-like discharge of the condensate water and / or the tap water passing through the downpipe FR and the flushing nozzle DU from an initial region located at the inlet region of the process air into the evaporator EV of the condenser device to a distance away from it in the direction of the Outlet region of the process air from the evaporator EV end region lying can also be made by the fact that the downpipe FR is deflected together with the rinsing nozzle DU accordingly. Incidentally, the mentioned deflection can also take place in a manner other than illustrated in FIG. 5B, that is to say generally by a deflection device operated mechanically, hydraulically, pneumatically or electromechanically. Now, the device shown in Fig. 6 in a corresponding schematic view as used for Fig. 1, according to the second embodiment is considered. Since the device shown in Fig. 6 largely corresponds to the device shown in Fig. 1, only those features will be discussed in more detail with which this device differs from the device shown in Fig. 1.

The device according to the second embodiment shown in FIG. 6 differs from the device shown in FIG. 1 essentially in that it omits the storage container SP1 provided in the device according to FIG. 1, the function of which is taken over by the rinsing container SB2 , If the rinse tank SB2 is filled with condensate water, then further condensate water supplied to it, as in the case of the apparatus shown in FIG. 1, arrives safely in the return duct RK through an overflow arrangement UB and thus directly back into the condensate water trough KW.

Condensate water collected in the rinse tank SB2 can, like the rinse tank provided in the apparatus according to FIG. 1, be delivered to the downpipe FR for the purpose of cleaning the evaporator EV by abrupt opening of the closure part VT1.

The rinse tank SB2, like the storage tank SP1 in the apparatus shown in FIG. 1, can be a manually removable rinse tank SB2, by which the condensate water pumped up from the condensate water tank KW can be disposed of. The disposal of the condensate water from the rinse tank SB2 can be carried out in that the relevant rinse tank SB2 is completely removed from the washer or dryer and emptied into a waste water discharge device. This emptying can be done manually. But it is also possible that the condensate contained in the purge SB2 pumped by means of an electrically operated pump and is discharged into the mentioned wastewater discharge device.

In Fig. 7 and 8 of the only schematically indicated in Fig. 6 rinse tank SB2 is illustrated in a possible embodiment in more detail. FIGS. 7 and 8 show the rinsing container SB2 in a sectional representation as a cuboid receiving body, which is covered on its upper side by a cover DE. This cover DE can with the relevant receiving body, for example, be connected by a snap connection arrangement. At its end shown on the right in FIGS. 7 and 8, the receptacle body of the washing container SB2 in question has a handle GR, with which the washing container SB2 enters a corresponding receiving opening GO of an appliance body GK of the washing machine, which also serves as a guide device for the washing container SB2. or tumble dryer is inserted. Fig. 7 shows the rinse tank SB2 in a state in which it is fully inserted into the receiving opening GO of the device body GK, and Fig. 8 shows the case that the rinse tank SB2 is slightly pulled out of this receiving opening GO of the device body GK.

In the inserted into said receiving opening GO state of the rinse tank SB2 is located with its in Fig. 7 left end region shown on buffers PU, which abut from the inside of the washing container SB2 receiving receiving opening GO. In this state, the rinse tank SB2 is received with cam receivers NA1 and NA2 provided on its underside, of cams N01 and N02, respectively, which protrude from the underside of the respective receiving opening GO. In this state, the rinse tank SB2 is lowered with respect to the underside of the mentioned receiving opening GO of the device body GK and is thus sealingly against the underside of the mentioned receiving opening GO by a sealing member in the form of a sealing disk Dl. As a result, in the downpipe FR, if necessary, high-rising moist process air can neither reach the rinsing container SB2 nor the outside of the apparatus body GK. In this state, namely, the outlet opening AU in the lower region of the washing container SB2 is closed, by the closure part VT1, analogous to the embodiment of FIG. 2A, wherein here too the closure part VT1 can sealingly rest on sealing areas or lips, the stand up from the lower inside of the washing container.

When withdrawing the washing container SB2 from said receiving opening GO by means of the handle GR slides the bottom of the washing container SB2 on the cam N01 and NO2 and thereby prevents damage or wear of the sealing disk Dl, as shown in FIG.

In the position of the washing container SB2 shown in FIG. 7, two through-openings 0P1 and 0P2 are aligned with one another, of which the through-opening 0P1 is in the rearward direction. Ren area of the aforementioned receiving opening GO of the device body GK is provided and of which the passage opening 0P2 is provided in the corresponding region of the lid DE of the washing container SB2. By means of these aligned through openings, which are preferably of the same size, condensate water is introduced through the connecting channel K2 shown in Fig. 6 in the washing container SB2.

The sealing head DK of the closure part VT1 shown in FIGS. 7 and 8 is supported by the lever arm D1, which is received in the side walls of the flushing container SB2 the closure part VT1 so that the washing container SB2 with the closure part VT1 (to which the two lever arms H1 and H2 but not the lifting magnet HM belongs) relative to the mentioned receiving opening GO can be moved.

Fig. 9 shows a guide unit GO forming part of the device body GK. In the guide unit GO the rinse tank SB2 is used. The washing container SB2 can be pulled out of the guide unit GO by means of the handle GR. The lifting magnet HM is arranged on an outer side of the guide unit GO forming part of the device body GK, wherein the plunger SO sealed for contacting with the underside of the outer lever H2 of the closure part VT1 by a, unspecified here, implementation in a lower shell US of the guide unit GO is guided.

FIG. 10 shows the device from FIG. 9 in the same view, with the rinse container SB2 now partially being pulled out of the guide unit GO. With the rinse tank SB2, the closure part VT1 is entrained and thus separated by solenoid HM and plunger SO. By means of the return spring (not shown here) it is ensured that the outlet opening closes independently of the position of the washing container SB2. Thus, the rinse tank SB2 may be removed from the dryer and handled by a user, e.g. B. for dumping of condensate without there is a risk of unintentional opening of the outlet opening AU. When inserting the rinse tank SB2 is achieved by the rounded back of the outer lever H2 that the plunger SO slides under the outer lever H2, if he should be the lever H2 in the way.

The invention described above is not limited to the embodiments shown in the drawings and their explanation. Thus, instead of a solenoid, for example, a stroke-reinforced piezoelectric actuator or a fast servomotor can be used.

Also, when dispensing with a separate storage container, the rinse tank can be divided into two chambers, namely a rinsing chamber and a collection chamber, which is subdivided by a separating or intermediate wall. The pumped up by the pump from the condensate water tank condensate then passes, for example, through the connecting channel first in the washing chamber. Since the partition is slightly lower in height than the height of the edge regions of a combination or short Kombibe- container performing rinse tank, the rinsing chamber is first filled with condensate water from the condensate water tank. If the rinsing chamber is filled with condensate water, further condensate water supplied to it passes through an overflow into the collecting chamber. If the collection chamber filled, water is derived from it via the overflow UB.

LIST OF REFERENCE NUMBERS

AO, A1, A2, A3 output terminals

A4a, A4b, A5, A6

AB1, AB2 subsidence areas

AU outlet opening

BE actuator

BV movable connection part

DC sealing element

DE cover

Dl sealing member or disc

DK sealing head

DL sealing areas or lips

DM sealing collar

DO passage opening

DU rinsing nozzle dx1 maximum stroke on the first lever arm dx2 maximum stroke on the second lever arm

E1, E2 input terminals

EL inlet area

EV evaporator

FB guideway

FR downpipe

FS guide pin or roller

FU guide rail

GB blower

GK device body

GO reception opening

GR handle

GW threaded spindle

HO Free Hub

H1 First lever arm (inner lever)

H2 second lever arm (outer lever) HE heating device

HM lifting magnet

K1, K2, K3, K4, K5, K6 connection channels

KF contact surface

KK claw coupling

KW condensate water tray

LA slats

IK effective power arm

IL Effective load arm

LU1, LU2, process air ducts

LU3, LU4

MO electric motor, engine

MU nut part

NA1, NA2 cam holder

N01, N02 cam

0P1, 0P2 opening

P1, P2 pump

PU buffer

RF return spring

RK return channel

S1. S2 switch

SB1 washing container

SB2 washing container

SO pestle

SP1 storage tank

SL support bearing

ST control device

TE occluder

TL carrying part

TR1. TR2 funnel-shaped connections (transition parts)

TT, TT1 carrier part

TT2 actuating pin

U voltage connection UB overflow tank

US lower shell

VE distributor or two-way valve

VT1. VT2 locking part

WA water inlet pipe

WT washing or laundry drum

ZR drainage pipe

Claims

claims

1. Device with a arranged within a process air cycle of a washing or tumble dryer to be cleaned component, in particular an evaporator (EV) of a condenser device, and with a condensate water pan

(KW), in which in the process air cycle by drying wet laundry resulting condensate trappable, from this to a above the evaporator (EV) provided rinsing (SP1, SP2) hinleitbar and out of an outlet opening (AU) to the component to be cleaned (EV), wherein the rinsing container (SP1, SP2) has a closure part (VT 1) for selectively opening and closing the outlet opening (AU) and an actuator (HM) for actuating the closure part (VT 1), wherein the closure part ( VT1) has a sealing head (DK) for closing the outlet opening (AU), which is connected to a first lever arm (H 1) rotatably mounted on the washing compartment (SP1; SP2).

2. Device according to claim 1, wherein the actuator (HM) for actuating the closure part (VT1) is arranged and arranged to give up a force on the first lever arm (H1).

3. Apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the actuator comprises a lifting magnet (HM).

4. Device according to one of the preceding claims, in which a stroke movement (dx2) of the actuator (HM) via a plunger (SO) is applied to the closure part (VT1).

5. Device according to one of the preceding claims, wherein a stroke (hθ, dx2) of the actuator (HM) is a maximum of 30 mm, in particular a maximum of 25 mm.

6. Device according to one of the preceding claims, in which a stroke (hθ, dx2) of the actuator (HM) is traversed in less than 2 s, in particular less than 0.5 s, especially in less than 0.2 s.

7. Device according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the first lever arm (H1) in the washing compartment (SB1; SB2) is arranged and the device further comprises a second lever arm (H2) outside the condensate container (SB1; SB2), which with the first Lever (H1) is coupled, wherein the actuator (HM) is adapted to operate the second lever arm (H2).

8. Apparatus according to claim 7, wherein the first lever arm (H1) and the second lever arm (H2) by means of a dog clutch (KK), in particular coded dog clutch, are coupled together.

9. Apparatus according to claim 7 or 8, wherein at least one sealing element (DC) for sealing a passage opening (DO) between the two lever arms (H1, H2) is present.

10. Device according to one of the preceding claims, further comprising at least one spring element (RF) for urging the closure part (VT 1) on the outlet opening (AU).

11. Device according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the rinsing container (SP2) can be removed and the actuator (HM) to a rinsing container (SP2) leading receiving opening (GO) is mounted.

12. Device according to one of the preceding claims, which is designed as a washing or tumble dryer.

13. A method for operating a device according to one of the preceding claims, wherein by an actuation of the actuator (HM) for opening the outlet opening (AU) a force on the first lever arm (H 1) is exerted, on the basis of which the first lever arm (H 1) lifts the sealing head (DK) from the outlet opening (AU).