EP2478969A1 - Haushaltgerät - Google Patents

Haushaltgerät Download PDF

Info

Publication number
EP2478969A1
EP2478969A1 EP11151831A EP11151831A EP2478969A1 EP 2478969 A1 EP2478969 A1 EP 2478969A1 EP 11151831 A EP11151831 A EP 11151831A EP 11151831 A EP11151831 A EP 11151831A EP 2478969 A1 EP2478969 A1 EP 2478969A1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
spraying device
droplet spraying
liquid
home appliance
membrane
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Granted
Application number
EP11151831A
Other languages
English (en)
French (fr)
Other versions
EP2478969B1 (de
Inventor
Mario Filippetti
Andrea Zattin
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Electrolux Home Products Corp NV
Original Assignee
Electrolux Home Products Corp NV
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Priority to PL11151831T priority Critical patent/PL2478969T3/pl
Application filed by Electrolux Home Products Corp NV filed Critical Electrolux Home Products Corp NV
Priority to EP11151831.2A priority patent/EP2478969B1/de
Priority to PCT/EP2012/050760 priority patent/WO2012101028A1/en
Priority to RU2013139434/12A priority patent/RU2013139434A/ru
Priority to CN2012800062168A priority patent/CN103370142A/zh
Priority to BR112013018855A priority patent/BR112013018855A2/pt
Priority to AU2012210703A priority patent/AU2012210703A1/en
Priority to US13/981,039 priority patent/US20140075682A1/en
Publication of EP2478969A1 publication Critical patent/EP2478969A1/de
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of EP2478969B1 publication Critical patent/EP2478969B1/de
Not-in-force legal-status Critical Current
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical

Links

Images

Classifications

    • D—TEXTILES; PAPER
    • D06—TREATMENT OF TEXTILES OR THE LIKE; LAUNDERING; FLEXIBLE MATERIALS NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • D06F—LAUNDERING, DRYING, IRONING, PRESSING OR FOLDING TEXTILE ARTICLES
    • D06F58/00—Domestic laundry dryers
    • D06F58/20—General details of domestic laundry dryers 
    • D06F58/203—Laundry conditioning arrangements
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47L—DOMESTIC WASHING OR CLEANING; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47L15/00—Washing or rinsing machines for crockery or tableware
    • A47L15/14—Washing or rinsing machines for crockery or tableware with stationary crockery baskets and spraying devices within the cleaning chamber
    • A47L15/16—Washing or rinsing machines for crockery or tableware with stationary crockery baskets and spraying devices within the cleaning chamber with rigidly-mounted spraying devices
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47L—DOMESTIC WASHING OR CLEANING; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47L15/00—Washing or rinsing machines for crockery or tableware
    • A47L15/42—Details
    • A47L15/4214—Water supply, recirculation or discharge arrangements; Devices therefor
    • A47L15/4217—Fittings for water supply, e.g. valves or plumbing means to connect to cold or warm water lines, aquastops
    • D—TEXTILES; PAPER
    • D06—TREATMENT OF TEXTILES OR THE LIKE; LAUNDERING; FLEXIBLE MATERIALS NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • D06F—LAUNDERING, DRYING, IRONING, PRESSING OR FOLDING TEXTILE ARTICLES
    • D06F58/00—Domestic laundry dryers
    • D06F58/20—General details of domestic laundry dryers 
    • D06F58/24—Condensing arrangements
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47L—DOMESTIC WASHING OR CLEANING; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47L15/00—Washing or rinsing machines for crockery or tableware
    • A47L15/42—Details
    • A47L15/4291—Recovery arrangements, e.g. for the recovery of energy or water
    • D—TEXTILES; PAPER
    • D06—TREATMENT OF TEXTILES OR THE LIKE; LAUNDERING; FLEXIBLE MATERIALS NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • D06F—LAUNDERING, DRYING, IRONING, PRESSING OR FOLDING TEXTILE ARTICLES
    • D06F39/00—Details of washing machines not specific to a single type of machines covered by groups D06F9/00 - D06F27/00 
    • D06F39/08—Liquid supply or discharge arrangements
    • D06F39/088—Liquid supply arrangements

Definitions

  • the invention relates to an improved home appliance, preferably to a laundry treatment apparatus or a dishwasher and further in particular to a laundry treatment apparatus capable of washing and/or drying.
  • the invention set forth below is in particular suitable for washing machines and dryers, especially tumble dryers, encompassing condensation dryers, heat pump dryers, exhaust or circulation ventilation dryers or washing machines with drying function.
  • home appliances which allow for the dispensing of a fluid for the purpose of cleaning components of such home appliances, e.g. for cleaning a component of a heat exchange system of the home appliance like a condenser surface.
  • Such necessity for cleaning arises for example with dryers, especially condensate dryers or heat pump dryers, where one of the problems of efficiency over time is related to the soiling of the evaporator.
  • the fluff removed by the laundry during the drying process is carried into the cooling system by the processing air. Part of the fluff is retained by the lint filter but small particles may overcome this barrier. This effects a reduction of the thermal exchange power of the surfaces and in worst case the clogging of the air path.
  • WO 2009/050004A1 discloses a method and a device for cleaning a component arranged in a process air circuit of a dryer by a sudden gush of water, especially by a gush of condensed water stored in a storage chamber. Further cleaning devices of the above kind are known from DE 37 38 031 C2 and DE 43 33 901 C2 . Herein fluff is removed by a flushing device which comprises jets provided with condensate water pressurized by a pump.
  • Devices of the above kind need a complex construction including powerful pumps for effectively cleaning the desired component by dispensing of pressurized fluid and/or a large amount of cleaning fluid for flushing.
  • a home appliance according to the present invention is in particular a laundry treatment apparatus or a dishwasher.
  • Such laundry treatment apparatuses encompass washing machines, dryers, especially tumble dryers like condensate or heat pump dryers and washing machines with drying function.
  • a home appliance of the inventive kind can be any home appliance, wherein the dispensing of a liquid fluid, in particular the spray dispensing of a fluid, is provided.
  • Fluids to be dispensed can be water, for example condensate water, cleansing agents, additives for fabric finishing or alike liquids.
  • a home appliance comprises a liquid supply channel and/or a liquid reservoir as well as a droplet spraying device.
  • Both the liquid supply channel and the liquid reservoir serve the purpose of feeding or supplying the droplet spraying device with the liquid, wherein also the liquid supply channel can serve as a liquid reservoir.
  • the liquid reservoir and/or the liquid supply channel are meant to be arranged in fluid communication with the droplet spraying device, i.e. such, that liquid from the liquid supply channel and/or the liquid reservoir can be fed to the droplet spraying device in an appropriate manner.
  • the droplet spraying device is arranged at a section of the liquid supply channel, preferably at an end region thereof.
  • the liquid supply channel and/or the liquid reservoir has an inlet for supplying liquid thereto.
  • the liquid supply channel and/or the liquid reservoir may have an outlet for draining liquid therefrom.
  • the liquid supply channel may be connected to a liquid source, for example to a fresh water tap or to (another) liquid reservoir.
  • the liquid supply channel may be a flow-through channel adapted to flow the liquid through the channel, in particular adapted to flow the liquid to the droplet spraying device, further in particular through its inlet.
  • controllable valve can be connected between the droplet spraying device and the liquid reservoir or liquid source, or the valve is provided between the liquid reservoir and the another liquid reservoir
  • a droplet spraying device is a single, discrete droplet spraying device or is a plurality of droplet spraying devices or is a multiple droplet spraying device.
  • the multiple droplet spraying device is preferably an arrangement of a plurality (e.g. 2, 3, 4, ...) of discrete or coupled-together droplet spraying devices.
  • one surface area of the liquid supply channel and/or the liquid reservoir comprises a distributed (e.g. linear or matrix-like) arrangement of adjacent droplet spraying devices.
  • One or more individual droplet spraying devices of a multiple droplet spraying device can each be supplied by a discrete supply channels and/or be fed by a discrete liquid reservoirs.
  • a multiple droplet spraying device also may be fed from common liquid supply channel and/or a common liquid reservoir.
  • combinations of discrete supply of one or more droplet spraying devices and common supply of further droplet spraying devices by one or more liquid supply channels and/or one or more liquid reservoirs may be provided.
  • multiple droplet spraying devices for bringing out fabric finishing additives each are supplied by a discrete liquid supply channel, for example in fluid connection to a common liquid reservoir, or each to another liquid reservoir.
  • the multiple droplet spraying device for bringing out water or condensate water when cleaning an evaporator is supplied directly by a common liquid reservoir.
  • liquid can be supplied to one or more liquid supply channels and/or liquid reservoirs from different or same fluid sources / reservoirs.
  • the droplet spraying device which is based on membrane vibration, comprises a membrane arranged in fluid connection with the liquid supply channel and/or the liquid reservoir.
  • a fluid connection may be established such that liquid from the liquid supply channel and/or the liquid reservoir is brought into direct contact with the membrane.
  • Liquid may be fed to the membrane by a liquid supply channel or a liquid reservoir apt for a capillary feed of the membrane or liquid may be deposited directly onto the membrane by the liquid supply channel and/or the liquid reservoir.
  • Liquid may be supplied directly to a surface of the membrane, especially to a back surface thereof, alternatively for example to a front surface.
  • the membrane of the droplet spraying device is meant to generate droplets by being actuated by at least one actuator of the droplet spraying device, the droplets especially providing a fine aerosol spray or mist.
  • the membrane has a plurality of openings. By providing openings, liquid can comfortably be fed to a backside of the membrane, whereas droplets emerge at a front side during operation. Such a perforate membrane can produce a powerful mist when vibrated by the actuator and allow for the convenient separation of a treatment region facing the front side of the membrane and a liquid supply next to the back side.
  • the openings of the membrane can have an average diameter such as to exert a capillary force onto the liquid and preventing escape of the liquid through the opening when the actuator is not operated (or when the actuator is operated such that the capillary or surface force can not be overcome). Operation of the actuator preferably is effected at a vibrational resonance frequency of the droplet spraying device, allowing for low driving energy.
  • the membrane may be formed from a sheet material, for example from an electro-formed sheet wherein the sheet material may be a metallic material, a metal compound, plastic material, or ceramic.
  • Such membranes including openings can for example be produced by a photo-lithographic process in combination with an electroforming process.
  • the membrane may be formed as circular disc, for example also comprising a circular layer of polymer.
  • the membrane can comprise a sheet with openings defined in an array.
  • the openings can be tapered holes, i.e. holes of a cross-sectional area which is reduced in a direction from the back to the front side of the membrane.
  • Such tapered holes may enhance the dispensing of droplets and are apt to reduce the necessary amplitude of a vibration of the membrane for generating droplets of a desired size.
  • Such tapered conical perforations can for example be formed in a polymer layer of the membrane.
  • An actuator can be a piezoelectric and/or an electrostrictive actuator, for example also a piezomagnetic or a magnetostrictive actuator which comprises one or more of electrostrictive, magnetostrictive or piezoelectric elements adapted to deflect.
  • the actuator comprises an element enabled to deflect according to an external excitation, for example by applying an AC voltage.
  • Upon bending or deflecting the membrane operatively connected to the actuator is vibrated (actuated).
  • Such bending can be caused by an applied field, e.g. an electric or magnetic field.
  • fields for actuating the membrane via deflecting of an excitable element or the actuator, respectively are in particular alternating fields. Such alternating fields in particular allow for vibration of the membrane for the generation of droplets.
  • An actuator can be formed integrally with the membrane, e.g. such, that the membrane is part of the actuator or the actuators or wherein the membrane itself is the actuator.
  • the membrane may also be supported on the actuator.
  • suitable actuators may include a coil arrangement which supports the membrane, the coil arrangement comparable to that of a speaker, e.g. a dome tweeter or cone speaker.
  • the membrane may comprise one or more electrodes and one or more backing electrodes arranged at a distance or with a gap from the membrane, wherein in particular the one or more backing electrodes are arranged facing a front side and/or backside of the membrane.
  • Such an actuator structure resembles an electret structure as used for example in an electret microphone or speaker.
  • the one or more backing electrodes may be formed on or arranged at a body of the droplet spraying device or at or in the liquid supply channel and/or liquid reservoir.
  • the droplet spraying device is supplied with liquid without the requirement of a pump (e.g. only a liquid supply in fluid connection with the membrane is provided). Because of its possible small and slim but simple and rigid layout the droplet spraying device offers the chance to place the droplet spraying device in positions, where common nozzles can not be applied. Additionally the dimension of the droplets, the amount of mist and the direction of the mist flow or the droplets respectively can be managed by the device characteristic and/or by an electronic board connected therewith. Such a driving board can be a low-cost low voltage electronic board, the energy consumption of which is negligible.
  • the droplet spraying device is highly adaptable to flat surfaces, applicable for a wide range of liquids and not sensible to clogging. Moreover there is no dead time in the build-up of droplets.
  • the home appliance has one or more such droplet spraying devices, each in fluid connection with a liquid channel and/or a liquid reservoir.
  • a plurality of droplet spraying devices can be arranged adjacent to each other or spatially distributed.
  • one or more droplet spraying devices can be arranged at or in one component of the home appliance and one or more droplet spray devices can be arranged at another component.
  • a droplet spraying device may be installed neighboring or in a compartment of the home appliance, for example neighboring a laundry storing compartment, especially such that spraying droplets into the compartment is possible, whereas another droplet spraying device is for example arranged next to a heat exchanging device of said appliance, in particular for cleaning the same.
  • a heat exchanging device of the (a) home appliance can be a condenser, evaporator or radiator for dissipating heat.
  • the invention can be carried out advantageously in connection with a home appliance comprising a heat exchanging device.
  • a home appliance comprising a heat exchanging device.
  • Such home appliances are in particular dryers, e.g. condensation and heat pump dryers or washing machines with drying function.
  • the droplet spraying device can be configured to spray liquid supplied to the membrane by the liquid supply channel and/or the liquid reservoir onto one or more surfaces of the heat exchanging device, in particular to spray liquid onto the heat exchanging surfaces of the heat exchanging device.
  • Convenient surfaces for being sprayed are especially evaporator surfaces of a heat pump dryer which need cleaning or washing as fluff is otherwise expected to soil or clog those.
  • the droplet spraying device based on the actuator-operated membrane is able to work with a liquid in form of condensed water normally present in such a home appliance and to give a powerful and directed mist to remove fluff stuck on the evaporator surfaces.
  • the droplet spraying device can be arranged above the heat exchanging device or the component to be cleaned by sprayed droplets and/or in or close to an air supply channel for flowing air to the heat exchanging device, wherein in particular the air supply channel is part of a processing air channel.
  • the droplet spraying device thereby can be arranged to spray droplets into the air supply channel at a region upstream the heat exchanging device, in particular be arranged next to or in the air supply channel upstream the heat exchanging device.
  • the droplets may advantageously experience an accelerating force, i.e. by gravity or the process air flow within the air supply channel in a direction which supports the droplet spray effect exerted by the droplet spraying device and in the consequence the removal of residue.
  • the home appliance includes a compartment for articles to be treated.
  • a compartment may be a laundry storage compartment, e.g. of a dryer or a washing machine, a dishwasher compartment, etc.
  • the droplet spraying device is arranged such, that droplets can be sprayed into the compartment.
  • An alike configured droplet spraying device preferably sprays liquids or additives, e.g. a fabric finishing additive, a liquid detergent, a conditioner, a deodorant, a fragrance, a de-wrinkling agent, a proofing, antibacterial, rinse or softening agent, etc. into the compartment for appropriate treatment of the articles to be treated.
  • liquids can be stored in or be fed by a corresponding liquid reservoir and/or the liquid supply channel.
  • the droplet spraying device may be arranged at a wall section forming part of the enclosure of the compartment or the droplet spraying device may be arranged within the compartment.
  • the droplet spraying device may be arranged at a wall of the dishes storing compartment and/or at a dishes storing basket. It may be useful to arrange the droplet spraying device at a movable element of the home appliance, for example a spray arm of the same. Such a movable element can be arranged inside the compartment, for example in case of a dishwasher.
  • a compartment may at least partly be formed by a rotatable drum, e.g. in case of a washing machine or a dryer, in particular a tumble dryer.
  • the droplet spraying device can be positioned and/or configured to spray droplets into the drum.
  • the droplet spraying device may be arranged at a front and/or rear closure element, the front or rear closure element covering or closing a front or rear opening of the drum, respectively.
  • Such an arrangement allows e.g. for easy liquid supply architecture for supplying liquid to the droplet spraying device.
  • the droplet spraying device is arranged at a loading door for closing a loading opening and/or be arranged at a gasket arranged between a loading opening and the compartment.
  • a loading door for closing a loading opening and/or be arranged at a gasket arranged between a loading opening and the compartment.
  • a droplet spraying device is arranged in an air flowing channel upstream the compartment, wherein in particular the air flowing channel is part of a process air channel and/or part of an air circulation channel.
  • the air flowing channel is part of a process air channel and/or part of an air circulation channel.
  • the home appliance is operated in a first operation mode and in a second operation mode.
  • the vibration frequency and/or speed and/or the amplitude of the membrane is higher than in the second mode of operation.
  • the frequency may match a resonant frequency of the droplet spraying device for maintaining resonant vibration.
  • the membrane sprays the supplied liquid completely, substantially or at least partially.
  • the liquid In a second operation mode of the droplet spraying device, which in particular does not spray droplets, the liquid may be completely, substantially or at least partially flown through the liquid supply channel and/or the liquid reservoir, e.g. in the direction to an outlet of the same.
  • the droplet spraying device In the second operation mode the droplet spraying device may act as a pump or can for example be deactivated. In the second operation mode the droplet spraying device for example may be deactivated and the liquid is flown through the liquid supply channel and/or the liquid reservoir so as to flush the membrane.
  • the droplet spraying device may for example exert a pumping or sucking force for sucking liquid into the liquid supply channel and/or the liquid reservoir.
  • the liquid at the backside of the membrane is pumped out of the droplet spraying device.
  • the device is acting as a membrane-like pump.
  • liquid supplied to the membrane is sprayed by the droplet spraying device, and in a succeeding step (see above first and second operation modes), the liquid supply channel and/or reservoir are washed by the liquid previously sprayed or by liquid from another reservoir or by liquid supplied from a fresh water tap.
  • a further reservoir can for example be a condensed water tank.
  • another liquid can be supplied to the membrane via the liquid supply channel and/or the liquid reservoir. Consequently, only one liquid supply channel and/or liquid reservoir in fluid communication with the droplet spraying device for various liquids, e.g. additives, may be needed.
  • Fig. 1 depicts a home appliance 2 where the depicted embodiment is a tumble dryer, especially a heat pump tumble dryer.
  • a tumble dryer of this kind is generally well known in the art and comprises a heat pump system 4, including a heat exchanger device having a vaporizer or evaporator 6, a condenser 8, a compressor 10 and an expansion device 12 (for example a capillary tube 12).
  • the process air flow within the heat pump system 4 is guided through a compartment 14 of the home appliance 2, i.e. through a compartment 14 for articles to be treated, e.g. a drum 14, wherein the airflow within a process air channel for circulating the air is depicted by arrows A in Fig. 1 .
  • the articles to be treated are textiles or is laundry. In case the home appliance is a dishwasher, the articles are dishes or the like.
  • the heat exchanger device 6 of the dryer 2 is endangered of being soiled or clogged by fluff transported out of the compartment 14 with the process air flow.
  • fluff filters 16 are arranged in the flow path, for example at an outlet 18 of the compartment 14, fine particles still are comprised within the air leaving the compartment 14.
  • the heat exchanger device 6 of the home appliance 2 is cleaned or washed regularly as explained below.
  • condensed water generated in the heat pump cycle i.e. at surfaces of the evaporator 6, can advantageously be used.
  • a collector device 20 e.g. in a collector tray or collector tank 20.
  • a condensate tank 21 e.g. a liquid reservoir 22 and/or a liquid supply channel 24, which are provided to supply water to a droplet spraying device 26.
  • the condensed water from the collector device 20 can be conveyed by means of a pump 28 and/or a suitable duct structure 30 to the tank 21, the reservoir 22 and/or the channel 24.
  • Pump 28 can e.g. be automatically operated when triggered by a switch signal from a float switch 32.
  • Figs. 2 to 6 each exemplarily visualize schematic details of the dryer 2.
  • the heat exchanger 6 depicted is an evaporator 6 of the dryer 2 with a heat pump system 4 as described above, but may generally be any heat exchanger device 6 in need of cleaning, e.g. in a dryer or a washing machine with drying function.
  • the heat exchanger 6 is arranged in a section of an air circulation channel 4a, which in particular is part of the process air channel defined within the dryer 2.
  • the air supply channel 4a is meant for guiding process air (indicated by arrows A) through at least a portion of the heat pump system 4.
  • a fan 34 may be arranged, Fig. 2 .
  • a filter element 16 may be arranged at an inlet of the air supply channel 4a, upstream the heat pump system 4.
  • the collector device 20 collects condensed water from the heat exchanger 6 for feeding it to the droplet spraying device 26.
  • the condensed water is supplied to the device 26 via condensate line 30, condensate tank 21, liquid supply channel 24 and liquid reservoir 22 ( Fig. 2 ).
  • the droplet spraying devices 26 shown in Figs. 2 to 6 each comprise a membrane 36 with a plurality of openings 38 and at least one actuator 40 for actuating the membrane 36, as for example is exemplified in Figs.7a and 7b .
  • a droplet spraying device 26 can comprise e.g. a first annulus 42, known as "invar" which for example is formed of nickel-iron alloy. Bonded to the annulus 42 may be a second, in particular piezoelectric annulus 44 as well as the perforate membrane 36, in particular a circular membrane 36. On top of the second annulus 44 a driving electrode 46 can be formed.
  • the actuator 40 comprising the first 42 and second annulus 44 and the electrode structure 46 can be actuated, whereupon the membrane 36 is put to vibration.
  • a voltage for example a sinusoidal voltage
  • the droplet spraying device 26 in particular its membrane 36, is arranged such that droplets emerging from a front side of the membrane 36 can be sprayed onto the heat exchanger surface to be cleaned.
  • multiple droplet spraying devices 26 may be arranged within the home appliance 2.
  • Each droplet spraying device 26 of a such multiple droplet spraying device 27 includes a membrane 36 in direct fluid connection with the liquid reservoir 22 ( Fig. 3 ) or the liquid supply channel 24 ( Fig. 4 ), wherein fluid is supplied to a backside of the membrane 36 and in operation droplets emerge from a front side, indicated by arrows B.
  • the droplet spraying device 26 forms a walls section of the liquid reservoir 22.
  • the liquid reservoir 22 contains the liquid to be sprayed by the droplet spraying devices 26, e.g. condensed water supplied from the collecting device 20, water from tap, liquid fed by a user, etc.
  • the liquid is fed through an inlet 22a to the liquid reservoir 22.
  • the liquid reservoir 22 can further have an outlet 22b for emptying the reservoir 22, e.g. by making use of a pumping action of the droplet spraying device 26 or for flushing the reservoir 22 in the context of cleaning the same.
  • the outflow of liquid through the outlet 22b can be controlled by a valve shown in Fig. 2 , which is generally closed and can be opened by demand.
  • the liquid reservoir 22 can have an outlet 22b comprising a level drain as shown in Fig. 3 . Liquid drained out of the liquid reservoir 22 via outlet 22b is indicated by arrow C and may also be collected by the collecting device 20 for further use or can be drained away.
  • a suitable liquid reservoir 22 can hereby be designed with a small frame.
  • the membrane 36 can span a cut-out or through-hole established in the wall of the liquid reservoir 22 such that liquid contained within the reservoir 22 contacts the membrane 36, i.e. its backside.
  • the membrane 36 can be situated within a corresponding through-hole, e.g. at the bottom of or within the wall structure of the liquid reservoir 22 or next to a port of such a through hole.
  • the actuator 40 can be arranged in such a manner. In such an arrangement the membrane 36 seals the cut-out or through-hole if not actuated.
  • the droplet spraying device 26, in particular together with the liquid reservoir 22, is situated at a structural part of the home appliance 2 neighboring the component 6 to be sprayed upon.
  • the arrangement, in particular close to the air supply channel 4a for flowing air to the heat exchanging device 6, is such that droplets can be sprayed onto the evaporator 6.
  • the droplet spraying device 26, in particular together with the liquid reservoir 22 (and/or a liquid supply channel 24), is positioned above the heat exchanger 6 such that droplets to be sprayed can additionally be accelerated by gravity.
  • the term 'above' relates to the operational orientation of the home appliance (here dryer 2).
  • the droplet spraying devices 26, in particular the multiple droplet spraying device 27, are formed integrally with the liquid reservoir 22 and/or a liquid supply channel 24, i.e. as a single module.
  • the at least one droplet spraying device 26 e.g. a plurality of devices 26 in the multiple spray device 27
  • the at least one droplet spraying device 26 can be mounted easily, i.e. via mounting the liquid reservoir 22 or a liquid supply channel 24 at the predetermined position, respectively.
  • Figs. 4 to 6 each exemplarily depict a liquid supply to the droplet spraying devices 26 and its membrane 36, respectively, wherein each membrane 36 is in fluid communication with the liquid supply channel 24.
  • the supply channel 24 can be fluid connected to a line 30 in fluid connection with the collector device 20 ( Fig. 4 ), or be fluid connected to the liquid reservoir 21 or 22 ( Figs. 5 and 6 ) or generally be fluid connected to a liquid source.
  • a supply line for example branches into one liquid supply channel 24 per membrane 36 such that liquid can be supplied individually to each device 26 / membrane 36.
  • a liquid supply channel 24 hereby acts as a liquid reservoir 22.
  • it is designed to provide liquid by a capillary action, e.g. in cooperation with the actuated membrane 36.
  • the droplet spraying devices 26 depicted in Fig. 4 are situated on a structural part of the home appliance 2 (dryer) neighboring the evaporator 6, the arrangement enabling them to spray droplets onto the evaporator 6 to be cleaned.
  • a liquid supply channel 25 connects to liquid reservoir 22, wherein the multiple droplet spraying device 27 is fed by only one liquid supply channel 25, i.e. a common liquid supply channel 25.
  • Fig. 5 further shows situating the droplet spraying devices 26 inside the air supply channel 4a neighboring the surface area of the evaporator 6 to be cleaned. By situating the droplet spraying devices 26 inside the air supply channel 4a, the spray effect can especially be focused to an area where most deposits (fluff) are to be expected.
  • Fig. 6 shows a related arrangement, wherein the droplet spraying devices 26 are arranged upstream of the evaporator 6.
  • the spray direction of the droplet spraying devices 26, arrow B hereby in particular matches the direction of the processing air flow, arrows A, such that a spray effect can be enhanced by the processing air flow.
  • Figs. 3 and 4 further exemplify a driving structure 48 for one or more actuators 40.
  • a driving structure 48 may comprise a low-voltage (AC) circuit, e.g. providing for actuation of multiple or all actuators 40 at once, e.g. by making use of a bus bar, or allowing for separate actuation of selected ones or each individual actuator 40.
  • Driving structure 48 or at least part of it may be integrated in or on the liquid reservoir 22 and/or part of the liquid supply channel 24, e.g. printed or arranged thereon.
  • the driving structure 48 may be controlled by an overall control device of the home appliance 2 (dryer) and/or comprise a stand-alone functionality.
  • a control function can be implemented enabling the actuating of a selected one or a group of the droplet spraying devices 26 out of a plurality thereof in the multiple droplet spraying device 27, Figs. 5 and 6 .
  • Fig. 8 further depicts dryer 2 in another embodiment, wherein droplet spraying devices 26 spray droplets into the compartment 14 for articles to be treated.
  • the dryer 2 can generally be a home appliance like a dishwasher or a laundry treatment apparatus, for example a laundry treatment apparatus with washing and/or drying function.
  • the compartment 14 can be a laundry storage compartment 14 in case of the home appliance 2 being a washing machine and/or a dryer, e.g. a drum, or a dishes storing compartment 14 in case of a dish washer, i.e. a non-rotatable compartment 14.
  • Such a home appliance 2 can also include a droplet spraying device 26 for purposes described above in connection with Fig. 1 to 7b .
  • the dryer 2 of Fig. 8 is adapted to spray droplets into the compartment 14 by a droplet spraying device 26 (or a multiple droplet spraying device 27 not depicted in Fig. 8 ).
  • a droplet spraying device 26 or a multiple droplet spraying device 27 not depicted in Fig. 8 ).
  • Such droplets can be droplets build up from various kinds of liquids, comprising one or more of: water, a liquid detergent, conditioner, deodorant, frangrance or de-wrinkling agent and a proofing, antibacterial, rinse or softening agent.
  • the home appliance 2 can comprise one or more suitable liquid reservoirs 22, especially such, which are meant to be filled by a selected liquid by a user.
  • the articles to be treated within the compartment 14 are brought in interaction with the respective kind of liquid supplied to the droplet spraying device 26.
  • Each droplet spraying device 26 (its membrane 36) is in fluid communication with the liquid supply channel 24 and/or the liquid reservoir 22.
  • the droplet spraying device 26 in particular is arranged at a wall section 50 forming part of the enclosure of the compartment 14.
  • a wall section 50 may be a stationary part of the compartment 14 not rotating with and closing the openings of the rotatable drum 52.
  • the stationary part is a rear closure element 54 of drum 52, Fig. 7 .
  • the droplet spraying device 26 can also be arranged at any section of the stationary wall of the dishwasher tub.
  • Fig. 8 also exemplarily depicts the arrangement of a droplet spraying device 26 neighboring a loading opening 56 of the compartment 14.
  • the droplet spraying device 26 is arranged such that droplets can be sprayed through the loading opening 56 of the drum 52 into the compartment 14.
  • Appropriate positions for such an arrangement of the droplet spraying device 26 are for example a loading door 58 of the home appliance 2, a gasket arranged between the loading opening 56 and the compartment 14, and/or a stationary frame between the loading opening and the drum.
  • FIG. 8 Another droplet spraying device 26 is arranged in an air flowing channel 60 upstream the compartment 14.
  • air flowing channel 60 is part of a closed loop process air channel and/or part of an air circulation channel for air circulation within the dryer 2 (arrows A indicate the air flow).
  • the dryer or washing machine can be of the exhaust process air type where ambient air is flown over a e.g. cross-flow) heat exchanger element and thereafter is exhausted to the outside of the home appliance.
  • Fig. 8 also depicts a valve 62, which e.g. may be installed in a liquid supply channel 24 for controlling liquid supply to the droplet spraying device 26. Additionally or alternatively a pump 64 for liquid supply is provided. A control device 66 for controlling one or more droplet spraying devices 26 via control line 68 is implemented.
  • Fig. 9 shows another exemplary embodiment of the droplet spraying device that can be used in any of the above configurations of Figs. 1 to 8 .
  • a first flap 72 is arranged at the inlet 22a and a second flap 70 is arranged at the outlet 22b of the liquid reservoir 22 (or the section of the liquid supply channel 24 where the droplet spraying device 26 is arranged in the alternative configuration).
  • the frequency of the voltage applied by driving structure 48 is high and correspondingly the vibration frequency of membrane 36 is high while its stroke D is low.
  • liquid droplets overcome the capillary or surface force of the openings 38 onto the liquid and droplets separate from the membrane's outside surface establishing spraying activity.
  • Inlet flap 72 takes an intermediate position between opening and closing such that liquid is sucked into the inner volume of reservoir 22 (or channel section 24). In this first operation mode, ideally, outlet flap 70 is closed or nearly closed so that no or little fluid drains through outlet 22b (comparable to cardiac fibrillation).
  • the driving frequency is lower, thus the vibration frequency of the membrane 36 is lower and its stroke D is larger. Due to the lower vibration frequency, droplets do not release from the openings 38 and no liquid is sprayed. Instead a heart-like pumping activity is provided by the membrane and the liquid is pumped through the outlet 22b. Thus there is a liquid flow through the reservoir 22 (or the device section of channel 24). The liquid flow flushes away any deposits (e.g. fluff or scale) that may have collected in the reservoir (or in the channel 24/25 section), in particular on the membrane 36 and its openings 38.
  • deposits e.g. fluff or scale

Landscapes

  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Textile Engineering (AREA)
  • Water Supply & Treatment (AREA)
  • Detail Structures Of Washing Machines And Dryers (AREA)
  • Special Spraying Apparatus (AREA)
  • Accessory Of Washing/Drying Machine, Commercial Washing/Drying Machine, Other Washing/Drying Machine (AREA)
EP11151831.2A 2011-01-24 2011-01-24 Haushaltgerät Not-in-force EP2478969B1 (de)

Priority Applications (8)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
EP11151831.2A EP2478969B1 (de) 2011-01-24 2011-01-24 Haushaltgerät
PL11151831T PL2478969T3 (pl) 2011-01-24 2011-01-24 Urządzenie gospodarstwa domowego
RU2013139434/12A RU2013139434A (ru) 2011-01-24 2012-01-19 Бытовой электроприбор
CN2012800062168A CN103370142A (zh) 2011-01-24 2012-01-19 家用电器
PCT/EP2012/050760 WO2012101028A1 (en) 2011-01-24 2012-01-19 Home appliance
BR112013018855A BR112013018855A2 (pt) 2011-01-24 2012-01-19 utensílio doméstico e método de operação de um utensílio doméstico
AU2012210703A AU2012210703A1 (en) 2011-01-24 2012-01-19 Home appliance
US13/981,039 US20140075682A1 (en) 2011-01-24 2012-01-19 Home Appliance

Applications Claiming Priority (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
EP11151831.2A EP2478969B1 (de) 2011-01-24 2011-01-24 Haushaltgerät

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP2478969A1 true EP2478969A1 (de) 2012-07-25
EP2478969B1 EP2478969B1 (de) 2017-01-04

Family

ID=44148447

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP11151831.2A Not-in-force EP2478969B1 (de) 2011-01-24 2011-01-24 Haushaltgerät

Country Status (8)

Country Link
US (1) US20140075682A1 (de)
EP (1) EP2478969B1 (de)
CN (1) CN103370142A (de)
AU (1) AU2012210703A1 (de)
BR (1) BR112013018855A2 (de)
PL (1) PL2478969T3 (de)
RU (1) RU2013139434A (de)
WO (1) WO2012101028A1 (de)

Cited By (8)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
EP2777474A3 (de) * 2013-02-26 2015-01-28 Miele & Cie. KG Geschirrspülautomat
WO2015074834A1 (en) * 2013-11-22 2015-05-28 Arcelik Anonim Sirketi A dishwasher comprising a heat pump
WO2015185079A1 (en) * 2014-06-02 2015-12-10 Arcelik Anonim Sirketi Laundry treatment appliance with a condensate water lint disintegration unit
EP3181751A1 (de) * 2015-12-18 2017-06-21 Whirlpool Corporation Wäschebehandlungsgerät und verfahren zum betrieb
WO2018103831A1 (en) * 2016-12-07 2018-06-14 Arcelik Anonim Sirketi Laundry dryer
CN111387903A (zh) * 2019-01-02 2020-07-10 佛山市顺德区美的洗涤电器制造有限公司 干燥装置和洗碗机
US10914537B2 (en) 2017-12-11 2021-02-09 Hamilton Sundstrand Corporation Heat exchanger with spray nozzle
CN114165970A (zh) * 2020-09-10 2022-03-11 emz-汉拿两合有限公司 用于家用电器的空气处理设备

Families Citing this family (19)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US9562707B2 (en) 2013-03-14 2017-02-07 Whirlpool Corporation Refrigerator cooling system having a secondary cooling loop
DE102013207897A1 (de) * 2013-04-30 2014-10-30 BSH Bosch und Siemens Hausgeräte GmbH Verfahren zum waagerechten Ausrichten eines Gerätes mit einem Nebelerzeuger
DE102013222926A1 (de) * 2013-11-11 2015-05-13 BSH Bosch und Siemens Hausgeräte GmbH Wärmetauscheranordnung und Wäschetrockner
CN105714540B (zh) * 2014-12-05 2019-07-23 青岛海尔洗衣机有限公司 一种干衣机冷凝水收集、利用装置及收集、利用方式
KR101718040B1 (ko) 2015-06-18 2017-03-20 엘지전자 주식회사 건조기능을 구비한 의류처리장치
PL3379992T3 (pl) * 2015-11-24 2020-05-18 BSH Hausgeräte GmbH Urządzenie gospodarstwa domowego z pompą ciepła i sposób działania urządzenia gospodarstwa domowego
EP3282050B1 (de) * 2016-08-10 2019-05-15 Whirlpool Corporation Wartungsfreier trockner mit mehreren selbstreinigenden flusenfiltern
US10087569B2 (en) 2016-08-10 2018-10-02 Whirlpool Corporation Maintenance free dryer having multiple self-cleaning lint filters
US10738411B2 (en) 2016-10-14 2020-08-11 Whirlpool Corporation Filterless air-handling system for a heat pump laundry appliance
US10519591B2 (en) 2016-10-14 2019-12-31 Whirlpool Corporation Combination washing/drying laundry appliance having a heat pump system with reversible condensing and evaporating heat exchangers
US10502478B2 (en) 2016-12-20 2019-12-10 Whirlpool Corporation Heat rejection system for a condenser of a refrigerant loop within an appliance
CN108330664B (zh) * 2017-01-20 2021-06-01 重庆海尔洗衣机有限公司 一种干衣机蒸发器清洗方法、清洗装置及干衣机
US10544539B2 (en) 2017-02-27 2020-01-28 Whirlpool Corporation Heat exchanger filter for self lint cleaning system in dryer appliance
US10514194B2 (en) 2017-06-01 2019-12-24 Whirlpool Corporation Multi-evaporator appliance having a multi-directional valve for delivering refrigerant to the evaporators
US10718082B2 (en) 2017-08-11 2020-07-21 Whirlpool Corporation Acoustic heat exchanger treatment for a laundry appliance having a heat pump system
CN109556296B (zh) * 2017-09-25 2022-02-25 佛山市顺德区美的电热电器制造有限公司 生活电器、生活电器内的储水容器的除垢方法
CN109549471B (zh) * 2017-09-25 2021-12-21 佛山市顺德区美的电热电器制造有限公司 容器及容器除垢方法、生活电器
CN109549455B (zh) * 2017-09-25 2022-02-25 佛山市顺德区美的电热电器制造有限公司 烹饪容器、烹饪设备和烹饪方法
US11015281B2 (en) 2017-09-26 2021-05-25 Whirlpool Corporation Laundry appliance having a maintenance free lint removal system

Citations (10)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
WO1993010910A1 (en) * 1991-12-04 1993-06-10 The Technology Partnership Limited Fluid droplet production apparatus and method
DE4333901C1 (de) 1993-10-05 1995-02-09 Bauknecht Hausgeraete Wäschetrockner
WO1995015822A1 (en) * 1993-12-09 1995-06-15 The Technology Partnership Plc Liquid spray apparatus and method
DE3738031C2 (de) 1987-11-09 1995-10-12 Bosch Siemens Hausgeraete Verfahren und Vorrichtung zum Entfernen von Flusen aus einem als Wärmetauscher ausgebildeten Kondenswasser-Abscheider
US5823428A (en) * 1994-06-23 1998-10-20 The Technology Partnership Plc Liquid spray apparatus and method
US20050183208A1 (en) * 2004-02-20 2005-08-25 The Procter & Gamble Company Dual mode laundry apparatus and method using the same
WO2006125677A1 (en) * 2005-05-25 2006-11-30 L'oreal Piezoelectric spray device
JP2009022487A (ja) * 2007-07-19 2009-02-05 Panasonic Corp 衣類乾燥機
EP2042645A1 (de) * 2007-09-28 2009-04-01 BSH Bosch und Siemens Hausgeräte GmbH Vorrichtung und Verfahren zum Ausrüsten von Waschgut in einem wasserführenden Haushaltsgerät
WO2009050004A1 (de) 2007-10-12 2009-04-23 BSH Bosch und Siemens Hausgeräte GmbH Verfahren und vorrichtung zum reinigen eines bauteiles, insbesondere eines verdampfers einer kondensatoreinrichtung sowie wasch- oder wäschetrockner mit einer solchen vorrichtung

Family Cites Families (5)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
IT1201786B (it) * 1986-12-11 1989-02-02 Zanussi Elettrodomestici Lavastoviglie con ugelli di spruzzatura regolabili
DE60115430T2 (de) * 2001-09-03 2006-07-27 Microflow Engineering S.A. Sprühvorrichtung für Flüssigkeiten
FR2879482B1 (fr) * 2004-12-20 2007-03-30 Oreal Dispositif de pulverisation d'un produit, notamment d'un parfum
JP2007017765A (ja) * 2005-07-08 2007-01-25 Ricoh Co Ltd 噴霧ヘッド、並びにこれを用いる定着装置、画像形成装置及びトナー除去装置
DE202007018745U1 (de) * 2007-05-26 2009-03-12 Premark Feg L.L.C., Wilmington Gewerbliche Geschirrspülmaschine

Patent Citations (10)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
DE3738031C2 (de) 1987-11-09 1995-10-12 Bosch Siemens Hausgeraete Verfahren und Vorrichtung zum Entfernen von Flusen aus einem als Wärmetauscher ausgebildeten Kondenswasser-Abscheider
WO1993010910A1 (en) * 1991-12-04 1993-06-10 The Technology Partnership Limited Fluid droplet production apparatus and method
DE4333901C1 (de) 1993-10-05 1995-02-09 Bauknecht Hausgeraete Wäschetrockner
WO1995015822A1 (en) * 1993-12-09 1995-06-15 The Technology Partnership Plc Liquid spray apparatus and method
US5823428A (en) * 1994-06-23 1998-10-20 The Technology Partnership Plc Liquid spray apparatus and method
US20050183208A1 (en) * 2004-02-20 2005-08-25 The Procter & Gamble Company Dual mode laundry apparatus and method using the same
WO2006125677A1 (en) * 2005-05-25 2006-11-30 L'oreal Piezoelectric spray device
JP2009022487A (ja) * 2007-07-19 2009-02-05 Panasonic Corp 衣類乾燥機
EP2042645A1 (de) * 2007-09-28 2009-04-01 BSH Bosch und Siemens Hausgeräte GmbH Vorrichtung und Verfahren zum Ausrüsten von Waschgut in einem wasserführenden Haushaltsgerät
WO2009050004A1 (de) 2007-10-12 2009-04-23 BSH Bosch und Siemens Hausgeräte GmbH Verfahren und vorrichtung zum reinigen eines bauteiles, insbesondere eines verdampfers einer kondensatoreinrichtung sowie wasch- oder wäschetrockner mit einer solchen vorrichtung

Cited By (12)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
EP2777474A3 (de) * 2013-02-26 2015-01-28 Miele & Cie. KG Geschirrspülautomat
US9526395B2 (en) 2013-02-26 2016-12-27 Miele & Cie. Kg Automatic dishwasher
WO2015074834A1 (en) * 2013-11-22 2015-05-28 Arcelik Anonim Sirketi A dishwasher comprising a heat pump
WO2015185079A1 (en) * 2014-06-02 2015-12-10 Arcelik Anonim Sirketi Laundry treatment appliance with a condensate water lint disintegration unit
EP3181751A1 (de) * 2015-12-18 2017-06-21 Whirlpool Corporation Wäschebehandlungsgerät und verfahren zum betrieb
US10648125B2 (en) 2015-12-18 2020-05-12 Whirlpool Corporation Laundry treating appliance and method of operation
US11585032B2 (en) 2015-12-18 2023-02-21 Whirlpool Corporation Laundry treating appliance and method of operation
WO2018103831A1 (en) * 2016-12-07 2018-06-14 Arcelik Anonim Sirketi Laundry dryer
US10914537B2 (en) 2017-12-11 2021-02-09 Hamilton Sundstrand Corporation Heat exchanger with spray nozzle
EP3495759B1 (de) * 2017-12-11 2021-08-25 Hamilton Sundstrand Corporation Wärmetauscher mit sprühdüse
CN111387903A (zh) * 2019-01-02 2020-07-10 佛山市顺德区美的洗涤电器制造有限公司 干燥装置和洗碗机
CN114165970A (zh) * 2020-09-10 2022-03-11 emz-汉拿两合有限公司 用于家用电器的空气处理设备

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
EP2478969B1 (de) 2017-01-04
CN103370142A (zh) 2013-10-23
US20140075682A1 (en) 2014-03-20
RU2013139434A (ru) 2015-03-10
BR112013018855A2 (pt) 2016-10-04
WO2012101028A1 (en) 2012-08-02
PL2478969T3 (pl) 2017-08-31
AU2012210703A1 (en) 2013-04-18

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
EP2478969B1 (de) Haushaltgerät
US9885143B2 (en) Laundry drying device and method for cleaning a filter
EP1759622B1 (de) Geschirrspülmaschine
EP2895651B1 (de) Haushaltsgerät mit einer flüssigkeitsleitungsvorrichtung
EP2039819B1 (de) Wasch- und Trockenmaschine
JP4544131B2 (ja) 食器洗い機
US20100083532A1 (en) Nozzle and additive supply arrangement for a textiles treatment apparatus
EP2628846B1 (de) Wäschebehandlungsvorrichtung mit Wärmetauscherreinigung
KR20090123936A (ko) 구성 요소, 특히 응축기 장치의 증발기를 세척하기 위한 방법 및 장치와 이러한 장치를 포함하는 세탁/건조기 또는 회전식 건조기
KR20070027186A (ko) 식기 세척기
WO2013144763A2 (en) Clothes treatment appliance with condenser and cleaner device
CN101328670A (zh) 复合洗衣装置
JP7269703B2 (ja) 洗濯乾燥機
CN204608417U (zh) 具有蒸汽发生器的衣物处理装置
JP5033229B2 (ja) 食器洗浄機
JP2021527542A (ja) 衣類処理設備
US8221555B2 (en) Dishwasher machine with a sound wave generator and relevant method
JP2006288923A (ja) 食器洗い機
JP2020110764A (ja) 洗浄器
CN105593426A (zh) 包括清洁剂分配器的清洗机
JP2019084468A (ja) 洗浄器
KR101628460B1 (ko) 세탁장치
JP4858261B2 (ja) 食器洗浄機
EP2628843B1 (de) Wäschebehandlungsvorrichtung mit Wärmetauscherreinigung
JP4610645B2 (ja) 霧状水供給装置とそれを備える洗濯機

Legal Events

Date Code Title Description
PUAI Public reference made under article 153(3) epc to a published international application that has entered the european phase

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009012

AK Designated contracting states

Kind code of ref document: A1

Designated state(s): AL AT BE BG CH CY CZ DE DK EE ES FI FR GB GR HR HU IE IS IT LI LT LU LV MC MK MT NL NO PL PT RO RS SE SI SK SM TR

AX Request for extension of the european patent

Extension state: BA ME

17P Request for examination filed

Effective date: 20130125

17Q First examination report despatched

Effective date: 20150720

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: DE

Ref legal event code: R079

Ref document number: 602011033961

Country of ref document: DE

Free format text: PREVIOUS MAIN CLASS: B05B0017060000

Ipc: A47L0015160000

GRAP Despatch of communication of intention to grant a patent

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOSNIGR1

RIC1 Information provided on ipc code assigned before grant

Ipc: A47L 15/16 20060101AFI20160812BHEP

Ipc: D06F 58/24 20060101ALI20160812BHEP

Ipc: D06F 39/08 20060101ALI20160812BHEP

Ipc: D06F 58/20 20060101ALI20160812BHEP

Ipc: D06F 39/00 20060101ALI20160812BHEP

Ipc: A47L 15/42 20060101ALI20160812BHEP

INTG Intention to grant announced

Effective date: 20160916

GRAS Grant fee paid

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOSNIGR3

GRAA (expected) grant

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009210

AK Designated contracting states

Kind code of ref document: B1

Designated state(s): AL AT BE BG CH CY CZ DE DK EE ES FI FR GB GR HR HU IE IS IT LI LT LU LV MC MK MT NL NO PL PT RO RS SE SI SK SM TR

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: GB

Ref legal event code: FG4D

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: CH

Ref legal event code: EP

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: AT

Ref legal event code: REF

Ref document number: 858394

Country of ref document: AT

Kind code of ref document: T

Effective date: 20170115

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: IE

Ref legal event code: FG4D

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: DE

Ref legal event code: R096

Ref document number: 602011033961

Country of ref document: DE

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: LT

Ref legal event code: MG4D

Ref country code: NL

Ref legal event code: MP

Effective date: 20170104

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: BE

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20170131

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: AT

Ref legal event code: MK05

Ref document number: 858394

Country of ref document: AT

Kind code of ref document: T

Effective date: 20170104

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: NL

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20170104

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: IS

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20170504

Ref country code: LT

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20170104

Ref country code: GR

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20170405

Ref country code: NO

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20170404

Ref country code: FI

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20170104

Ref country code: HR

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20170104

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: PT

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20170504

Ref country code: LV

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20170104

Ref country code: BG

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20170404

Ref country code: RS

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20170104

Ref country code: SE

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20170104

Ref country code: ES

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20170104

Ref country code: AT

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20170104

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: CH

Ref legal event code: PL

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: DE

Ref legal event code: R097

Ref document number: 602011033961

Country of ref document: DE

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: LI

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20170131

Ref country code: CZ

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20170104

Ref country code: RO

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20170104

Ref country code: EE

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20170104

Ref country code: SK

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20170104

Ref country code: CH

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20170131

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: IE

Ref legal event code: MM4A

PLBE No opposition filed within time limit

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009261

STAA Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent

Free format text: STATUS: NO OPPOSITION FILED WITHIN TIME LIMIT

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: DK

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20170104

Ref country code: SM

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20170104

Ref country code: LU

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20170124

Ref country code: MC

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20170104

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: FR

Ref legal event code: ST

Effective date: 20171103

26N No opposition filed

Effective date: 20171005

GBPC Gb: european patent ceased through non-payment of renewal fee

Effective date: 20170404

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: FR

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20170306

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: BE

Ref legal event code: MM

Effective date: 20170131

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: SI

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20170104

Ref country code: IE

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20170124

Ref country code: GB

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20170404

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: MT

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20170124

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: HU

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT; INVALID AB INITIO

Effective date: 20110124

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: CY

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20170104

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: MK

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20170104

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: TR

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20170104

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: AL

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20170104

PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: DE

Payment date: 20220119

Year of fee payment: 12

PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: PL

Payment date: 20220118

Year of fee payment: 12

Ref country code: IT

Payment date: 20220120

Year of fee payment: 12

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: DE

Ref legal event code: R119

Ref document number: 602011033961

Country of ref document: DE

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: DE

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20230801

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: IT

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20230124

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: PL

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20230124

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: PL

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20230124