EP3282050B1 - Maintenance free dryer having multiple self-cleaning lint filters - Google Patents
Maintenance free dryer having multiple self-cleaning lint filters Download PDFInfo
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- EP3282050B1 EP3282050B1 EP17184083.8A EP17184083A EP3282050B1 EP 3282050 B1 EP3282050 B1 EP 3282050B1 EP 17184083 A EP17184083 A EP 17184083A EP 3282050 B1 EP3282050 B1 EP 3282050B1
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- European Patent Office
- Prior art keywords
- lint
- fluid
- filter
- angled
- air
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- 238000012423 maintenance Methods 0.000 title description 5
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- 238000012545 processing Methods 0.000 claims description 4
- 230000007246 mechanism Effects 0.000 description 34
- 238000001035 drying Methods 0.000 description 14
- 238000004891 communication Methods 0.000 description 5
- 238000001914 filtration Methods 0.000 description 5
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Images
Classifications
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- 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
- D06F58/22—Lint collecting arrangements
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- 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
- D06F58/206—Heat pump arrangements
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- 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
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- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Textile Engineering (AREA)
- Detail Structures Of Washing Machines And Dryers (AREA)
Description
- The device is in the field of laundry appliances, more specifically, a maintenance free laundry appliance having a plurality of self-cleaning lint filters.
- Document
WO 2015/101387 A1 discloses a laundry treatment apparatus having a first lint filter and a second lint filter downstream of the first lint filter; second lint filter and a washing liquid collector are arranged such that liquid flows along portion of surface of filter and carries fluff washed off from surface into collector. - Document
EP 2 202 349 A2 discloses a laundry dryer having a filter for filtering fluff in process air channel of dryer, and cleaning device for cleaning filter, where filter is arranged in inclined compartment. - In at least one aspect, a laundry appliance includes a rotating drum for processing laundry. A door is operable within a door opening and that provides selective access to the rotating drum. A blower directs process air through an air path that includes the rotating drum. A heat exchanger is positioned within the air path that cools and dehumidifies the process air. A first lint filter within the air path is positioned forward of the drum and below the door opening. A second lint filter within the air path is positioned downstream of the first lint filter and positioned forward of the heat exchanger. The first and second lint filters capture lint from the process air at respective positions upstream of the heat exchanger. The first lint filter is angled with respect to the second lint filter. A filter spray system has a plurality of fluid sprayers that deliver fluid to the first lint filter and the second lint filter, respectively, wherein each fluid sprayer of the plurality of fluid sprayers directs captured lint from the first and second lint filters to a common drain channel.
- In at least another aspect, a lint removal system for a laundry appliance includes an air moving unit that directs process air through an air path for processing laundry. A heat exchanger dehumidifies the process air delivered from a rotating drum via the air path. An angled first lint filter is positioned within the air path positioned forward of the rotating drum for capturing lint particles from the process air. A second lint filter is positioned upstream of the heat exchanger and downstream of the angled first lint filter for capturing lint particles from the process air. A first fluid sprayer directs fluid to a surface of the angled first lint filter for removing captured lint from the angled first lint filter. A second fluid sprayer directs the fluid to a surface of the second lint filter for removing the captured lint from the second lint filter. The fluid from the second fluid sprayer and the first fluid sprayer and the captured lint from the angled first lint filter and the second lint filter are directed to a common drain channel.
- These and other features, advantages, and objects of the present device will be further understood and appreciated by those skilled in the art upon studying the following specification, claims, and appended drawings, wherein the invention is defined in the independent claim 1 and further embodiments of the invention are defined in the dependent claims. The following description and the appended drawings are useful for understanding the invention as defined in the claims.
- In the drawings:
-
FIG. 1 is a front elevational view of a laundry appliance incorporating an aspect of the multi-filter lint removal system; -
FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of the appliance ofFIG. 1 taken along line II-II; -
FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram illustrating an aspect of a laundry appliance incorporating a heat pump system; -
FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram illustrating an aspect of the multi-filter lint removal system; -
FIG. 5 is a partial cross-sectional view of the laundry appliance ofFIG. 1 , taken along line V-V; -
FIG. 6 is a detailed cross-sectional view of a laundry appliance incorporating an aspect of the multi-filter lint removal system; -
FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram illustrating a fluid flow system for delivering fluid to the multi-filter lint removal system; -
FIG. 8 is a schematic diagram illustrating an aspect of a diverter valve for delivering fluid to multiple filters of an aspect of the lint removal system; -
FIG. 9 is a perspective view of an aspect of a water inlet valve for delivering fluid throughout an appliance incorporating an aspect of the multi-filter lint removal system; -
FIG. 10 is a top perspective view of a diverter valve incorporated within an aspect of the multi-filter lint removal system; -
FIG. 11 is a partially exploded view of a fluid pump incorporated within an aspect of the multi-filter lint removal system; -
FIG. 12 is a top perspective view of an inlet valve for the fluid pump ofFIG. 11 ; -
FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view of a laundry appliance incorporating an aspect of the multi-filter lint removal system; -
FIG. 14 is a partial cross-sectional view of the laundry appliance ofFIG. 13 , taken along line XIV-XIV; -
FIG. 15 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the appliance ofFIG. 14 , taken at area XV and exemplifying an aspect of an angled door air filter having an operable bypass member; -
FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional view of the door air filter ofFIG. 15 showing operation of a spray mechanism for cleaning lint from the door air filter; and -
FIG. 17 is a cross-sectional view of the door air filter ofFIG. 16 and showing the bypass member being moved to the drain position. - For purposes of description herein the terms "upper," "lower," "right," "left," "rear," "front," "vertical," "horizontal," and derivatives thereof shall relate to the device as oriented in
FIG. 1 . However, it is to be understood that the device may assume various alternative orientations and step sequences, except where expressly specified to the contrary. It is also to be understood that the specific devices and processes illustrated in the attached drawings, and described in the following specification are simply exemplary embodiments of the inventive concepts defined in the appended claims. Hence, specific dimensions and other physical characteristics relating to the embodiments disclosed herein are not to be considered as limiting, unless the claims expressly state otherwise. - As illustrated in
FIGS. 1-8 ,reference numeral 10 generally refers to a lint removal system for alaundry appliance 12, or other appliance incorporating aheat pump system 14 having a plurality ofheat exchangers 16. It is contemplated that thelaundry appliance 12 can include a rotatingdrum 18 and anair path 20 having anair moving unit 22 adapted to deliverair 24 through theair path 20 and through the rotatingdrum 18. At least a portion of theheat pump system 14 is positioned within theair path 20, and, in particular, at least one of theheat exchangers 16 of theheat pump system 14. Theheat pump system 14 serves tocondition air 24 within theair path 20 for heating and cooling theair 24 within theair path 20 and also extracting moisture and humidity in the form ofcondensate 26 fromair 24 delivered from the rotatingdrum 18. Theheat exchanger 16 of theheat pump system 14 is adapted to cool and dehumidifyair 24 within theair path 20. Theheat exchanger 16 condenses moisture within theair 24 intocondensate 26 that is captured within adrain channel 28 positioned below theheat exchanger 16. A plurality ofair filters 30 are positioned upstream from theheat exchanger 16. The plurality ofair filters 30 serve to removelint 32 from theair 24 delivered to theheat exchangers 16 within theair path 20. Accordingly, a plurality ofair filters 30 serve to capturelint 32 within theair 24 of theair path 20 so that thelint 32 does not adhere, or substantially does not adhere, to theheat exchanger 16 of theheat pump system 14. Afilter spray system 34 is disposed in communication with the plurality ofair filters 30. Thefilter spray system 34 includes a plurality offluid sprayers 36 that deliverfluid 38 to eachair filter 30 of the plurality ofair filters 30. Thefluid 38 sprayed onto the plurality ofair filters 30 is captured by thedrain channel 28. Accordingly,lint 32 present on any one or more of the plurality ofair filters 30 is sprayed off by the plurality offluid sprayers 36 such that thefluid 38 from the sprayers and thelint 32 from the plurality ofair filters 30 is moved from the plurality ofair filters 30 to thedrain channel 28. Afluid pump 40 is disposed in communication with thedrain channel 28 and thefluid outlet 42. In this manner, thefluid pump 40 operates to deliverfluid 38 andlint 32 from thedrain channel 28 to thefluid outlet 42 and to the exterior of thelaundry appliance 12. - Referring again to
FIGS. 2-8 , theheat pump system 14 for thelaundry appliance 12 can include acompressor 50, afirst heat exchanger 52 in the form of anevaporator 54 that extractsheat 190 at least fromair 24 moving through theair path 20 of thelaundry appliance 12 and asecond heat exchanger 56 in the form of acondenser 58 that releasesheat 190 for use in thelaundry appliance 12. Theheat pump system 14 also includes anexpansion device 60 and arefrigerant 62 that moves through arefrigerant line 64 that connects the various components of theheat pump system 14. The operation of a refrigerant-powered heat pump within an appliance is generally known by those having skill in the art. - Referring again to
FIGS. 2-8 , during operation of thelaundry appliance 12, typically in the form of a dryer for processing laundry, wet clothing is placed within therotating drum 18 to be dried. Theair moving unit 22, typically in the form of a blower, movesair 24 through theair path 20 and across the damp clothing placed within thedrum 18. The blower movesair 24 across thecondenser 58 or other heat source such that theair 24 is heated before it moves into thedrum 18. Theheated air 24 moves across the wet clothing within thedrum 18 and extracts moisture from the clothing such that theheated air 24 becomes heated andhumid air 70. In addition to moisture, theheated air 24 also collectslint 32 from the clothing disposed within thedrum 18. The heated andhumid air 70 that also containslint 32 is then moved through the plurality of filters wherein thelint 32 carried within the heated andhumid air 70 is captured within the plurality of filters. The heated andhumid air 70 moves from the plurality of filters to theevaporator 54 or heat sink that extractsheat 190 from the heated andhumid air 70. The extraction ofheat 190 also causes condensation of the humidity within the heated andhumid air 70 from thedrum 18. This condensation precipitates from theair 24 and is captured within thedrain channel 28 positioned below theevaporator 54. Theair 24 is then moved back to thecondenser 58 and/or other heat source to be cycled through theair path 20 and drum 18 once again. - Referring again to
FIGS. 2-8 , thelint removal system 10 can include a plurality ofair filters 30 for removinglint 32 fromair 24 in theair path 20. The plurality ofair filters 30 can include first and second lint filters 80, 82 where thesecond lint filter 82 has a second mesh size smaller than a first mesh size of thefirst lint filter 80. Accordingly, thefirst lint filter 80 captures particles oflint 32 having a larger size, which typically accounts for the majority oflint 32 carried within the heated andhumid air 70 delivered from thedrum 18. Smaller particles oflint 32 not captured by thefirst lint filter 80 are then moved toward thesecond lint filter 82 having the smaller second mesh size. Smaller particles oflint 32 are then captured by thesecond lint filter 82. It is also contemplated, in various embodiments, that thelint removal system 10 can also include athird lint filter 84 having a third mesh size smaller than the second mesh size of thesecond lint filter 82. In such an embodiment, even smaller particles oflint 32 that pass through thesecond lint filter 82 may be captured by thethird lint filter 84, such that the vast majority of lint carried by the heated andhumid air 70 emanating from therotating drum 18 can be captured within thelint removal system 10. It is also contemplated that thelint removal system 10 may include more than threeair filters 30 where eachsuccessive air filter 30 includes a mesh size that is smaller than theprevious air filter 30 within the plurality ofair filters 30. - Referring again to
FIGS. 2-8 , thefilter spray system 34 includes a plurality of filter sprayers that are paired with acorresponding air filter 30. In this manner, a firstfluid sprayer 90 is paired with thefirst lint filter 80, a secondfluid sprayer 92 is paired with thesecond lint filter 82, and a thirdfluid sprayer 94 is paired with athird lint filter 84, and so on for eachair filter 30 within thelint removal system 10. According to the various embodiments, each of the first, second andthird fluid sprayers fluid 38 on correspondingfilter portions 98 of the respective first, second and third lint filters 80, 82, 84. In this manner, fluid 38 delivered to the firstfluid sprayer 90 can be separately apportioned between thesubsprayers 96 of the first and secondfluid sprayer different filter portions 98 of thefirst lint filter 80 can be sprayed through use of thesubsprayers 96 of the firstfluid sprayer 90, and so on for eachair filter 30. - Referring again to
FIGS. 2-8 , the use ofsubsprayers 96 is incorporated such thatfilter portions 98 of eachair filter 30 of the plurality ofair filters 30 can be washed at different times. As eachfilter portion 98 of thevarious air filters 30 is washed, fluid 38 may adhere to the mesh openings of aparticular filter portion 98.Air 24 moving through theparticular filter portion 98 can, over time, dislodge, remove, evaporate, or otherwise eliminate the adhered fluid 38 from within theparticular filter portion 98. However, while the fluid 38 is adhered to theparticular filter portion 98, thefilter portion 98 may be temporarily blocked from allowingair 24 to pass through thatfilter portion 98. - The use of
subsprayers 96 for each of the first, second and third lint filters 80, 82, 84 allows for the passage ofair 24 within theair path 20 throughvarious filter portions 98 that have not yet been sprayed. This passage ofair 24 through theunsprayed filter portions 100 of eachair filter 30 also provides for a faster and more expedient removal of the adhered fluid 38 from the sprayedfilter portions 102 of theparticular air filter 30. Accordingly, the use of thesubsprayers 96 within each of the first, second andthird fluid sprayers fluid 38 within the recently sprayedfilter portions 102 of the first, second and third lint filters 80, 82, 84. Thesubsprayers 96 ornozzles 160 of each of the first, second andthird fluid sprayers subsprayers 96, threesubsprayers 96, or combinations thereof. The exact number ofsubsprayers 96 ornozzles 160 for washing eachair filter 30 can vary depending upon the amount oflint 32 typically being captured/sprayed, the frequency of spraying cycles, the position of theparticular fluid sprayers 36/correspondingair filter 30, combinations thereof, and other similar factors that can bear on the amount ofsubsprayers 96 needed for aparticular air filter 30 within thelint removal system 10. - Referring again to
FIGS. 2-10 ,fluid 38 used for thefilter spray system 34 can be obtained through an externalfluid source 110, such as a wall spigot external to thelaundry appliance 12. According to various embodiments, it is contemplated thatfluid 38 can be captured through a recycling ofcondensate 26 captured within thedrain channel 28 or other container during use of theheat pump system 14. - Referring again to
FIGS. 2-12 , thelaundry appliance 12 can include anelectrovalve 112 that regulates the flow offluid 38, typically water, from the externalfluid source 110, or other source offluid 38. Theelectrovalve 112 can be a solenoid, stepper motor, servo motor, combinations thereof, or other similar electrically operated motor. Theelectrovalve 112 for receivingfluid 38 from the externalfluid source 110 can include asingle fluid valve 114 that is activated and deactivated for delivering fluid 38 from the externalfluid source 110 to thefilter spray system 34. It is also contemplated that theelectrovalve 112 can include a plurality offluid valves 114 for separately and independently deliveringfluid 38 from the externalfluid source 110 to various portions of thelaundry appliance 12.Fluid valves 114 contained within theelectrovalve 112 can be used for deliveringfluid 38 to a sprayer system that disposes water within therotating drum 18, or other similar uses not necessarily related to thefilter spray system 34. It is also contemplated that theelectrovalve 112 can include afluid valve 114 that is separately and independently operable and in communication with each of the first, second andthird fluid sprayers fluid valve 116 may be used for deliveringfluid 38 to the firstfluid sprayer 90 for cleaning thefirst lint filter 80. Asecond fluid valve 118 can be used for deliveringfluid 38 to thesecond fluid sprayer 92 for cleaning thesecond lint filter 82. Similarly, a thirdfluid valve 120 can be used for deliveringfluid 38 to the thirdfluid sprayer 94 for cleaning thethird lint filter 84. The variousfluid valves 114 can be sequenced to open and close separately, simultaneously, in patterns, in combinations, or other sequences. It should be understood that the exact configuration of theelectrovalve 112 and the variousfluid valves 114 can be modified depending upon the particular design of thelaundry appliance 12 and the configuration of thelint removal system 10. - Referring again to
FIGS. 2-10 , downstream from theelectrovalve 112 and the one or morefluid valves 114, adiverter valve 130 is positioned for apportioningfluid 38 between the plurality offluid sprayers 36, between thesubsprayers 96 for eachfluid sprayer 36, or both. Thediverter valve 130 can be in the form of a stepper motor, solenoid, servo motor, or other similar electrically operated valve for apportioningfluid 38 between the various subsprayers 96 and/or the first, second andthird fluid sprayers - According to various embodiments, it is contemplated that a
primary diverter valve 140 can be in communication with theelectrovalve 112, where theprimary diverter valve 140 is operable between a plurality of positions, each corresponding to one of the first, second or thirdfluid sprayer primary diverter valve 140 is in communication with afluid line 142 that delivers fluid 38 to one of the first, second orthird fluid sprayers fluid line 142 connected to the first, second andthird fluid sprayers dedicated diverter valve 144 that apportions fluid 38 between thevarious subsprayers 96 within each of the first, second andthird fluid sprayers - Referring again to
FIGS. 7-10 , it is contemplated that theelectrovalve 112 and one ormore diverter valves 130 can be operated through an algorithm that sequences the operation of each of the first, second andthird fluid sprayers subsprayers 96 for each of theair filters 30 according to a preset algorithm. This preset algorithm serves to sequentially operate the spraying offilter portions 98 of the first, second and third lint filters 80, 82, 84 to maximize the spraying operation of each of thefluid sprayers 36 and also minimize the obstruction that may be caused by adhesion of the fluid 38 on thevarious filter portions 98 of the first, second and third lint filters 80, 82, 84. It is contemplated that the spraying cycle for cleaning the plurality ofair filters 30 within thelint removal system 10 can occur during each drying cycle of thelaundry appliance 12. Accordingly, each of the first, second and third lint filters 80, 82, 84 is sprayed at least once during each drying cycle. As discussed above, thefirst lint filter 80 may capturemore lint 32 during each drying cycle. Accordingly, thefirst lint filter 80, in various embodiments, may be sprayed multiple times during a particular drying cycle of thelaundry appliance 12. The second and third lint filters 82, 84 may be sprayed less during a particular drying cycle, and may be sprayed only at the conclusion of a particular drying cycle. - Referring again to
FIGS. 2-6 , it is contemplated that eachair filter 30 within thelint removal system 10 can be spaced apart from theother air filters 30 and can be placed in a parallel configuration with each of theother air filters 30 of thelint removal system 10. The spacing between each of theair filters 30 of thelint removal system 10 allows for eachrespective fluid sprayer 36 to effectively deliverfluid 38 to afront surface 150 of each of the first, second and third lint filters 80, 82, 84 and without interfering with the operation of anadjacent air filter 30 by sprayingfluid 38 on theback surface 152 of anadjacent air filter 30. By way of example, and not limitation, thesecond fluid sprayer 92 can be adapted to sprayfluid 38 on thefront surface 150 of thesecond lint filter 82. Thesecond lint filter 82 is spaced sufficiently far enough from thefirst lint filter 80 such that operation of thesecond fluid sprayer 92 can sprayfluid 38 onto thefront surface 150 of thesecond lint filter 82 without depositingfluid 38 or depositing substantial amounts of the fluid 38 on theback surface 152 of thefirst lint filter 80. It is contemplated that the sequencing of activation and deactivation of theparticular subsprayers 96 within the first, second andthird fluid sprayers back surface 152 of the first or second lint filters 80, 82 as a result of the operation of the second andthird fluid sprayers - In order to properly space each of the
air filters 30 within thelint removal system 10, a gap of approximately 10 mm may be considered between each of theair filters 30 to avoid obstruction bylint 32 and also allows installation and operation ofnozzles 160 for thesubsprayers 96 during use of thelaundry appliance 12. While 10 mm is used as an example herein, the distance between theair filters 30 can vary to be either greater than or less than 10 mm betweenadjacent air filters 30. The individual spaces between thevarious air filters 30 within thelint removal system 10 can also vary. As a non-limiting example, the space between the first and second lint filters 80, 82 may be greater than the space between the second and third lint filters 82, 84 where it is contemplated thatless lint 32 will accumulate between the second and third lint filters 82, 84 than between the first and second lint filters 80, 82. - The first, second and
third fluid sprayers air path 20 adjacent to therespective air filter 30. It is also contemplated that the first, second andthird fluid sprayers wall 170 of theair path 20 for deliveringfluid 38 to the first, second and third lint filters 80, 82, 84. - Referring again to
FIGS. 2-8 , the first, second andthird fluid sprayers nozzles 160 that correspond to each of thesubsprayers 96 for the first, second andthird fluid sprayers nozzles 160 can deliverfluid 38 in a predeterminedfluid path 180 for cleaning thecorresponding filter portion 98 of the first, second orthird lint filter fluid path 180 emanating from eachnozzle 160 can take any one of various shapes that can include, but is not limited to, a fan spray, a cascade spray, a plurality of individual spray jets, an angled spray path, various shaped or contoured spray patterns, combinations thereof, and other similarfluid paths 180. The particularfluid path 180 can be based upon various factors that may include the desiredfilter portion 98 of theparticular air filter 30 to be sprayed, the shape of theair filter 30, the spacing of theair filters 30, and other similar considerations. - According to the various embodiments, the various
fluid sprayers 36 can be adapted to direct the fluid 38 in various configurations and directions with respect to therespective air filter 30. It is contemplated that, in various embodiments, one or more of thefluid sprayers 36 can direct fluid 38 toward theback surface 152 of therespective air filter 30. In such an embodiment, any one or more of thefluid sprayers 36 can direct fluid 38 through theback surface 152 of therespective air filter 30 in order to pushlint 32 off from and away from thefront surface 150 of therespective air filter 30. It is also contemplated, in various embodiments, that at least one of thefluid sprayers 36 can be adapted to direct the fluid 38 toward thefront surface 150 of arespective air filter 30 and at least one of theother fluid sprayers 36 can be adapted to direct fluid 38 toward theback surface 152 of thecorresponding air filter 30. - By way of example, and not limitation, the first
fluid sprayer 90 can be configured to direct fluid 38 to theback surface 152 of thefirst lint filter 80. The second andthird fluid sprayers fluid 38 to thefront surface 150 of the second and third lint filters 82, 84, respectively. While this exemplary embodiment is disclosed, it should be understood that various combinations offront surface 150fluid sprayers 36 and backsurface 152fluid sprayers 36 can be included in a particularfilter spray system 34 of alaundry appliance 12. - According to the various embodiments, it is contemplated that the spray sequence for cleaning the two or
more air filters 30 contained within thelint removal system 10 can be activated by various methods. One such method includes a timer that automatically activates a spray sequence according to certain times within a particular drying cycle. It is contemplated that each type of drying cycle may have a corresponding spray sequence that accounts for the type of clothing being dried and various other parameters that may be indicative of a particular drying cycle. By way of example, and not limitation, a drying cycle for delicates may result in less accumulation oflint 32 within the plurality ofair filters 30 such that fewer spray sequences may need to be performed. Conversely, a drying sequence for drying towels may require the performance of more frequent spray cycles to clean the plurality ofair filters 30 more times to remove greater amounts oflint 32 that may be accumulated within the plurality ofair filters 30. - According to various embodiments, the various spray cycles may also be initiated through a temperature-related signal where an increase in temperature of the
compressor 50 for theheat pump system 14 may initiate a spray sequence for cleaning the plurality ofair filters 30. As an example, aslint 32 accumulates within one or more of the plurality ofair filters 30, the movement ofair 24 through theair path 20 may become progressively blocked through the accumulation oflint 32. As the movement ofair 24 within theair path 20 becomes blocked, the transfer ofheat 190 from theheat exchangers 16 to theair 24 within theair path 20 also becomes more inefficient. Accordingly, thecompressor 50 may have to operate at longer intervals to maintain the desired parameters for operating thelaundry appliance 12. The longer operation of thecompressor 50 increases the temperature in and around thecompressor 50. This increase in temperature can be communicated to thelaundry appliance 12 through a thermostat, thermocouple, thermistor, or other similar sensor. The sensor of thecompressor 50 can communicate temperature readings to a control for thelaundry appliance 12 indicating that the blockage oflint 32 is sufficient such that the increase in temperature of thecompressor 50 needs to be addressed and the spray sequence needs to be activated to remove a build-up oflint 32 causing the temperature increase within thecompressor 50. - Other mechanisms for activating a spray sequence can include, but are not limited to, a lint detector, airflow monitors, and other similar monitors that serve to indicate a build-up of
lint 32 within the plurality ofair filters 30. - Referring again to
FIGS. 4-6 , after thefluid sprayers 36 are activated, the fluid 38 from the first, second, andthird fluid sprayers lint 32 collected from the first, second and third lint filters 80, 82, 84, is moved to thedrain channel 28 positioned below theevaporator 54 of theheat pump system 14. According to the various embodiments, it is contemplated that thecondensed fluid 38 precipitated by theevaporator 54 drops into thesame drain channel 28 as that of the sprayedfluid 38 andlint 32 mixture. To promote the flow oflint 32 andfluid 38 within thedrain channel 28 toward thefluid pump 40, thedrain channel 28 can be sloped or otherwise disposed at a particular angle. This angle can be any one of various angles that promotes the flow offluid 38, and potentiallylint 32, from thefront portion 200 of thebasement 202, where theair filters 30 andfluid sprayers 36 are located, to therear portion 204 of thebasement 202, where thefluid pump 40 is located. Additionally, thedrain channel 28 can include aseparate fluid sprayer 36 that can be activated to movefluid 38 andlint 32 within thedrain channel 28 and toward thefluid pump 40. The volume of thedrain channel 28 can also vary and can be defined based upon an energy tradeoff. The size of a front opening can affect the maximum amount oflint 32 drainable. By way of example, and as a conservative approach, a 35 mm front opening section in thefront portion 200 of thedrain channel 28 and an approximately 65 mm rear opening section at therear portion 204 of thedrain channel 28 can be used. It should be understood that other front and rear opening sections can be modified depending upon the desired performance of theparticular laundry appliance 12. - Referring now to
FIG. 6 , becausemultiple air filters 30 are being used, the cross-sectional thickness of the plurality ofair filters 30 positioned below thedoor opening 210 and may alter the configuration of theair path 20 as it moves through thelaundry appliance 12. In order to direct the flow ofair 24 through theair path 20,various air diverters 212 may be implemented within thelaundry appliance 12 and in theair path 20 to direct the flow ofair 24, such that the heated andhumid air 70 from thedrum 18, which typically containslint 32, can be directed through each of the plurality ofair filters 30 of thelint removal system 10. Accordingly, whether thelint removal system 10 includes only first and second lint filters 80, 82 or includes first, second and third lint filters 80, 82, 84 or includes additional lint filters, thevarious air diverters 212 that at least partially define theair path 20 can be used to ensure that the flow ofair 24 through theair path 20 flows through each of the plurality ofair filters 30 within thelint removal system 10. Also, as discussed above, it is contemplated that fewer spray sequences may be activated onto thethird lint filter 84 as opposed to the second or first lint filters 82, 80. - According to the various embodiments, it is contemplated that the design of the
lint removal system 10 is such that maintenance of thevarious air filters 30 andfluid sprayers 36 can be performed primarily by a service technician. Accordingly, thelint removal system 10 may not be equipped with a convenient access panel on the exterior of thelaundry appliance 12. This is to deter an owner of thelaundry appliance 12 who may not be knowledgeable as to the operation of thelint removal system 10 from trying to maintain thelint removal system 10. Thelint removal system 10 is adapted to be substantially maintenance free, such that cleaning and/or maintenance of theheat pump system 14 and thelint removal system 10 is necessary only at substantially infrequent times, such as every six months, annually, bi-annually, every three years, or at greater time intervals, or after a large number of drying cycles of thelaundry appliance 12. - Referring again to
FIGS. 2-12 , it is contemplated that all of the fluid 38 that is received from the external source and moved through the various inlet electrovalves 112, water pipes,diverter valves 130,nozzles 160, filters,drain channels 28, and other portions of thelaundry appliance 12, is eventually moved through thefluid pump 40 of thelaundry appliance 12 and out to theexternal drain 220 for elimination from thelaundry appliance 12. It is contemplated that thefluid pump 40 can include apump inlet 222 that collectsfluid 38 andlint 32 from thedrain channel 28 and moves the fluid 38 andlint 32 through animpeller chamber 224, wherevarious impellers 226 draw in the fluid 38 andlint 32 and direct the fluid 38 andlint 32 to adrain conduit 228 and out of thelaundry appliance 12 to anexternal drain 220. Thefluid pump 40 can be positioned at arear portion 204 of thebasement 202 of thelaundry appliance 12 and thedrain conduit 228 can extend upward from thefluid pump 40 such that thefluid pump 40 moves the fluid 38 andlint 32 upward through thedrain channel 28 and out through theexternal drain 220. Within typical residential laundry rooms, the externalfluid source 110 andexternal drains 220 are positioned adjacent to one another such that thedrain conduit 228 needs to be positioned near theinlet electrovalve 112. In this manner, thelint 32 andfluid 38 can be properly eliminated from thelaundry appliance 12. - Referring again to
FIGS. 5 and6 , the incorporation of thelint removal system 10 is meant to make removal oflint 32 from the laundry appliance 12 a substantially maintenance-free operation. Accordingly, thelaundry appliance 12 can be designed without a removable door-mounted lint filter as is present in conventional laundry dryers. While a removable lint filter is typically not installed within the door, a fence orsimilar blocking member 240 can be installed within the door opening 210 to prevent larger objects such as coins, Legos, pens, toys, and other similar objects from coming into contact with thefirst lint filter 80 of thelint removal system 10. This blockingmember 240 can include a concave shape for capturing and retaining such items. It is also contemplated that the fence or blockingmember 240 can have a convex shape such that larger items can simply roll or slide off the blockingmember 240 or can be captured within a collection area adjacent to the blockingmember 240. - While the inclusion of first, second and third lint filters 80, 82, 84 are discussed within various embodiments of the
lint removal system 10, it is contemplated that the plurality ofair filters 30 may include only first and second lint filters 80, 82. Various embodiments may also include first, second and third lint filters 80, 82, 84 and can also include athird lint filter 84. It is also contemplated that thelint removal system 10 disclosed herein can be positioned in thebasement 202 of thelaundry appliance 12, or can be positioned in another location of thelaundry appliance 12 to provide space for various operational mechanisms of thelaundry appliance 12. Thelint removal system 10 described herein can also be included within alaundry appliance 12 that includes both washing and drying functions to be an all-in-onelaundry appliance 12. It is contemplated that thelint removal system 10 can also be included withinlaundry appliances 12 of varying sizes, such as a small apartment-type laundry unit as well as a larger commercial-type laundry unit. - It is also contemplated that the
lint removal system 10 can be incorporated within various types of appliances that incorporate aheat pump system 14 or other similar refrigerant systems. Such appliances can include, but are not limited to, dryers, refrigerators, freezers, chillers, and other similar appliances that incorporate a heat exchange mechanism. - As exemplified in
FIGS. 13-17 , thelint removal system 10 can include anangled lint filter 260 that is typically positioned upstream of the first, second and third lint filters 80, 82, 84. Theangled lint filter 260 can also be positioned below thedoor opening 210 and within theair path 20, where theangled lint filter 260 is positioned therein to separatelint 32 fromprocess air 24 moving through theair path 20. A portion of thefilter spray system 34 in the form of anangled spray mechanism 262 is connected to afluid source 264. Theangled spray mechanism 262 is positioned at afirst edge 266 of theangled lint filter 260 to sprayfluid 38 onto a portion of theangled lint filter 260 in order to remove and capturelint 32 that has been entrapped by a surface of theangled lint filter 260. As theangled spray mechanism 262 projects a stream offluid 38 along a surface of theangled lint filter 260, capturedlint 270 from theupstream surface 268 of theangled lint filter 260 is moved to alint drain 272 that extends from asecond edge 274 of theangled lint filter 260 down to an area near thedrain channel 28. Thelint drain 272 is typically positioned to allow for movement of the fluid 38 and capturedlint 270 from the angledlint filter 260 to be delivered to thedrain channel 28 in substantially the same manner as capturedlint 270 is removed from the first, second and third lint filters 80, 82, 84 toward thecommon drain channel 28. Theangled lint filter 260 can be used in conjunction with any number of the typically vertically oriented first, second and third lint filters 80, 82, 84. Accordingly, thelint removal system 10 may include theangled lint filter 260 along with only thefirst lint filter 80. Theangled lint filter 260 may also be accompanied by additional vertically oriented filters that make up the first, second and third lint filters 80, 82, 84. - Referring again to
FIGS. 14-17 , abypass member 280 can be positioned at or near thesecond edge 274 of theangled lint filter 260. Thebypass member 280 is selectively operable to ablocking position 282 that directsprocess air 24 through theangled lint filter 260 and toward the first, second and third lint filters 80, 82, 84 for further removal oflint 32 from theair 24 moving through theair path 20. Thebypass member 280 is also operable to adrain position 284 that allows for movement of material from theupstream surface 268 of theangled lint filter 260 and into thelint drain 272 for disposal into thedrain channel 28. - As exemplified in
FIGS. 16-17 , when thebypass member 280 is in thedrain position 284, fluid 38 from theangled spray mechanism 262, along with capturedlint 270 that is pushed by the fluid 38 from theangled spray mechanism 262, can be moved along theupstream surface 268 of theangled lint filter 260 and into thelint drain 272. Typically, the back pressure of the fluid 38 emanating from theangled spray mechanism 262 will have aforce 286 sufficient to move thebypass member 280 from the blockingposition 282 and into thedrain position 284. Thebypass member 280 includes abiasing mechanism 290 that applies a biasingforce 292 upon thebypass member 280 in the direction of theblocking position 282. When the fluid 38 is sprayed from theangled spray mechanism 262, theforce 286 of the fluid 38 overcomes this biasingforce 292 applied by thebiasing mechanism 290 to move thebypass member 280 from the blockingposition 282 to thedrain position 284. Accordingly, theforce 286 of the fluid 38 moves thebypass member 280 to open anaccess aperture 294 to thelint drain 272 to allow for movement of the fluid 38 and capturedlint 270 into and through thelint drain 272 and to thedrain channel 28. - Referring again to
FIGS. 14-16 , when theangled spray mechanism 262 is deactivated, and theforce 286 of the fluid 38 is no longer present, thebiasing mechanism 290 biases thebypass member 280 back into the blockingposition 282. In various embodiments, thebypass member 280 may include one or more drain holes 302 or weep holes. These drain holes 302 allowexcess fluid 38 to move or flow past thebypass member 280 and into thelint drain 272 when the opposing biasingforce 296 of the fluid 38 is not present. These drain holes 302 are sized and positioned to allow theexcess fluid 38 to drain without impeding the flow ofair 24 through theair path 20 when the blockingmember 240 is in theblocking position 282. The drain holes 302 are also configured to prevent whistling or other air-related noise. The drain holes 302 may also be positioned within thesecond edge 274 of theangled lint filter 260. Theexcess fluid 38 may also drain through thefiltering material 312 and fall to thedrain channel 28. - The
angled lint filter 260 is typically positioned at an angle such that gravity may at least partially assist in the movement offluid 38 and capturedlint 270 from theupstream surface 268 of theangled lint filter 260 toward thebypass member 280. Typically, thegravitational force 286 of the fluid 38 and capturedlint 270, by itself, is insufficient to manipulate thebypass member 280 from the blockingposition 282 to thedrain position 284. The fluid pressure of the fluid 38 projected from theangled spray mechanism 262 generates an opposing biasingforce 296 that engages thebypass member 280 to manipulate thebypass member 280 from the blockingposition 282 to thedrain position 284 for disposal of the capturedlint 270 to thedrain channel 28. - As exemplified in
FIGS. 14-17 , the angled position of theangled lint filter 260 is such that thefirst edge 266 of theangled lint filter 260 is typically positioned toward thefront portion 200 of the cabinet and the lowersecond edge 274 is positioned rearward of thefirst edge 266. Through this configuration, theangled spray mechanism 262 projects fluid 38 in a predetermined spray pattern orfluid path 180 away from thefront portion 200 of the cabinet and toward thedrain channel 28 of thelint removal system 10. Theangled spray mechanism 262 can direct a stream offluid 38 onto theupstream surface 268 of theangled lint filter 260 to push the capturedlint 270 toward thebypass member 280 and bias thebypass member 280 into thedrain position 284. - The
angled spray mechanism 262 can also be positioned to sprayfluid 38 onto adownstream surface 310 or back side of theangled lint filter 260 such thatfluid 38 is directed through thefiltering material 312 of theangled lint filter 260 for directing capturedlint 270 toward thebypass member 280. In such an embodiment, a portion of thebypass member 280 may extend past theangled lint filter 260 and adjacent thedownstream surface 310. In this manner, fluid 38 sprayed toward adownstream surface 310 of theangled lint filter 260 can also be directed to this extended portion of thebypass member 280 to bias thebypass member 280 from the blockingposition 282 to thedrain position 284 for disposal of the capturedlint 270. - Referring again to
FIGS. 13-17 , when thebypass member 280 is in theblocking position 282, thebypass member 280 covers theaccess aperture 294 proximate atop end 320 of thelint drain 272. When theangled spray mechanism 262 is activated andfluid 38 is directed to bias thebypass member 280 to thedrain position 284, thebypass member 280 moves to thedrain position 284 and opens theaccess aperture 294 at thetop end 320 of thelint drain 272. Thelint drain 272 can be a tube, shaft, interstitial space, or other conduit that extends from thetop end 320 proximate thebypass member 280 to abottom end 322 that is positioned over or at least near thedrain channel 28 so that capturedlint 270 can be disposed into thedrain channel 28. Thelint drain 272 can also be at least partially defined by awall 170 of theair path 20 and can be entirely contained within theair path 20. - As exemplified in
FIG. 15 , when thebypass member 280 is in theblocking position 282, thebypass member 280 may act as an aspect of theair diverter 212 that manipulates the flow ofair 24 through theair path 20 for efficient movement through theangled lint filter 260 as well as the first, second and third lint filters 80, 82, 84 of thelint removal system 10. Thebypass member 280 can include thebiasing mechanism 290 in the form of a spring orother biasing mechanism 290. - The
bypass member 280 may also be in the form of an elastomeric member having a shape that tends toward the blockingposition 282. In such an embodiment, the biasingforce 292 of the fluid 38 directed from theangled spray mechanism 262 serves to deflect a portion of theelastomeric bypass member 280 toward thedrain position 284 to open thelint drain 272 and allow for movement of the fluid 38 and capturedlint 270 into thelint drain 272. After theangled spray mechanism 262 is deactivated, the elastomeric nature of thebypass member 280 serves to return thebypass member 280 to its original shape that defines the blockingposition 282. - Referring again to
FIGS. 13 and14 , theangled spray mechanism 262 for theangled lint filter 260 can include asecondary fluid line 330 connected with thediverter valve 130, or in some instances, theprimary diverter valve 140. Because theangled lint filter 260 is typically positioned as the initial lint filtering member of thelint removal system 10,lint 32 will collect on theangled lint filter 260 more rapidly during operation of theappliance 12. Accordingly, activation of theangled spray mechanism 262 corresponding to theangled lint filter 260 may be operated more frequently to remove the capturedlint 270 from the angledlint filter 260. In this instance, thediverter valve 130 can be operated to allow for the more frequent flow offluid 38 through thesecondary fluid line 330 and to theangled spray mechanism 262 for theangled lint filter 260.Fluid 38 from theangled spray mechanism 262 may also be directed through thelint drain 272 and toward one or more of the first, second and third lint filters 80, 82, 84 to assist in removinglint 32 from these lint filters. - The
angled lint filter 260 and the first, second and third lint filters 80, 82, 84 can includefiltering material 312 having gradually decreasing mesh sizes or gradually decreasing pore size. In this manner, each successive filter of thelint removal system 10 can be adapted to capture smaller sized particles oflint 32. In such a configuration, theangled lint filter 260 will typically have the largest mesh size or pore size for capturing the largest lint particles and also the largest amount oflint 32. The next filter in line, thefirst lint filter 80, will typically have a slightly smaller mesh or pore size for capturing smaller lint particles. Thefirst lint filter 80 will also typically captureless lint 32 than the angledlint filter 260. Where thelint removal system 10 includes additional lint filters, such as thesecond lint filter 82,third lint filter 84, or subsequent lint filters, each successive lint filter can typically be configured to capture smaller sized particles oflint 32 and also smaller amounts oflint 32. - In various embodiments, the
angled lint filter 260 may includemultiple spray nozzles 160, where eachspray nozzle 160 is operated independently through operation ofdedicated diverter valves 130. It is also contemplated that theangled spray mechanism 262 for theangled lint filter 260 may be asingle spray nozzle 160 that is adapted to direct a flow offluid 38 across the entireupstream surface 268 of theangled lint filter 260. In configurations where theangled spray mechanism 262 includesmultiple spray nozzles 160, thebypass member 280 can be adapted to be manipulated from the blockingposition 282 to thedrain position 284 by either of themultiple spray nozzles 160 of theangled spray mechanism 262. Thebypass member 280 may also be configured as twoseparate bypass members 280 that correspond to eachspray nozzle 160 of theangled spray mechanism 262 serving theangled lint filter 260. - The fluid 38 directed through the
secondary fluid line 330 into theangled spray mechanism 262 can be directed from an externalfluid source 110 such as a household spigot or faucet.Fluid 38 may also be directed to thesecondary fluid line 330 through a dedicated pump that may move fluid 38 from afluid source 264 within theappliance 12. The internal source offluid 38 may be capturedcondensate 26 that may be collected through operation of a heat exchange orheat pump system 14 of theappliance 12. - While the
angled lint filter 260 is shown as having a particular angled configuration, it should be understood that the exact angle of theangled lint filter 260 can vary depending upon the design of theappliance 12. It should also be understood that theangled lint filter 260 may be configured to be angled in the opposite direction, or may be angled from the left side of theappliance 12 toward the right side of theappliance 12, or vice versa. The exact configuration of theangled lint filter 260 as well as the positioning of theangled spray mechanism 262 may vary depending upon the exact design of theappliance 12 that incorporates thelint removal system 10.
Claims (11)
- A laundry appliance (12) comprising:a rotating drum (18) for processing laundry;a door that is operable within a door opening (210) and that provides selective access to the rotating drum (18);a blower that directs process air through an air path (20) that includes the rotating drum (18);a heat exchanger (56) positioned within the air path (20) that cools and dehumidifies the process air;a first lint filter (80) within the air path (20) positioned forward of the rotating drum (18) and below the door opening (210);a second lint filter (82) within the air path (20) downstream of the first lint filter (80) and positioned forward of the heat exchanger (56),wherein the first and second lint filters (80, 82) capture lint (32) from the process air at respective positions upstream of the heat exchanger (56); andthe first lint filter (80) is angled with respect to the second lint filter (82); anda filter spray system (34) having a plurality of fluid sprayers (36) that deliver fluid (38) to the first lint filter (80) and the second lint filter (82), respectively, wherein each fluid sprayer (36) of the plurality of fluid sprayers (36) directs captured lint (270) from the first and second lint filters (80, 82) to a common drain channel (28),wherein the first lint filter (80) is an angled lint filter (260) having a first edge (266) positioned toward a front portion of a cabinet and a lower second edge (274) that is positioned rearward of the first edge (266),wherein a portion of the filter spray system (34) includes an angled fluid sprayer (36) that directs the fluid (38) across a surface of the angled lint filter (260);a bypass member (280) that is biased toward a blocking position (282) and that directs process air through the angled lint filter (260), whereinfluid from the angled fluid sprayer (36) biases the bypass member (280) to a drain position (284) that directs the fluid (38) and captured lint (270) into a lint drain (272); andthe lint drain (272) is blocked by the bypass member (280) in the blocking position (282).
- The laundry appliance (12) of claim 1, wherein the filter spray system (34) includes a diverter valve (130) that selectively apportions the fluid (38) between the plurality of fluid sprayers (36).
- The laundry appliance (12) of claim 1 or 2, wherein the lint drain (272) directs the fluid (38) and captured lint (270) to the common drain channel (28) positioned below the air filter (30) and the heat exchanger (56).
- The laundry appliance (12) of claim 3, wherein the common drain channel (28) receives condensate from the heat exchanger (56).
- The laundry appliance (12) of any of claims 1-4, wherein the plurality of fluid sprayers (36) deliver the fluid (38) to respective upstream surfaces of the first and second lint filters (80, 82).
- The laundry appliance (12) of any one of claims 1-5, wherein the second lint filter (82) includes a plurality of sequentially positioned filters that are positioned in a vertical orientation adjacent to the heat exchanger (56), and wherein the filter spray system (34) includes corresponding fluid sprayers (36) that deliver the fluid (38) to the plurality of filters, respectively.
- The laundry appliance (12) of any one or more of claims 3-6, wherein each fluid sprayer (36) of the plurality of fluid sprayers (36) includes at least one spray nozzle (160) that directs a spray of the fluid (38) to move the fluid (38) and the captured lint (270) to the common drain channel (28).
- The laundry appliance (12) of claim 7, wherein the second lint filter (82) includes multiple spray nozzles (160) that are operated sequentially and to direct water to different portions of the second lint filter (82).
- The laundry appliance (12) of any one or more of claims 1-8, wherein:
the angled lint filter (260) and the second lint filter (82) each include a mesh that captures the lint particles, the angled lint filter (260) having a first mesh size and the second lint filter (82) having a second mesh size that is smaller than the first mesh size. - The laundry appliance (12) of any one or more of claims 1-9, wherein the angled fluid sprayer (36) is positioned at the first edge (266) of the angled lint filter (260).
- The laundry appliance (12) of any one or more of claims 1-9, wherein the bypass member (280) is positioned at the lower second edge (274) of the angled first lint filter (80).
Applications Claiming Priority (4)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
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US201662372825P | 2016-08-10 | 2016-08-10 | |
US201762449838P | 2017-01-24 | 2017-01-24 | |
US15/658,971 US10633785B2 (en) | 2016-08-10 | 2017-07-25 | Maintenance free dryer having multiple self-cleaning lint filters |
US15/658,934 US10087569B2 (en) | 2016-08-10 | 2017-07-25 | Maintenance free dryer having multiple self-cleaning lint filters |
Publications (2)
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EP3282050A1 EP3282050A1 (en) | 2018-02-14 |
EP3282050B1 true EP3282050B1 (en) | 2019-05-15 |
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EP17184070.5A Active EP3282049B1 (en) | 2016-08-10 | 2017-07-31 | Maintenance free dryer having multiple self-cleaning lint filters |
EP17184083.8A Active EP3282050B1 (en) | 2016-08-10 | 2017-07-31 | Maintenance free dryer having multiple self-cleaning lint filters |
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EP17184070.5A Active EP3282049B1 (en) | 2016-08-10 | 2017-07-31 | Maintenance free dryer having multiple self-cleaning lint filters |
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KR102604236B1 (en) * | 2016-06-23 | 2023-11-21 | 엘지전자 주식회사 | Laundry drying apparatus |
DE102018104694B3 (en) * | 2018-03-01 | 2019-06-27 | Miele & Cie. Kg | heat pump unit |
CN113638177B (en) * | 2020-05-11 | 2024-02-13 | 重庆海尔滚筒洗衣机有限公司 | Washing and drying integrated machine |
WO2023203833A1 (en) * | 2022-04-21 | 2023-10-26 | 日立グローバルライフソリューションズ株式会社 | Washing and drying machine |
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DE3147796A1 (en) * | 1981-08-18 | 1983-03-03 | Spraytech AB, 18400 Åkersberga | Device for cleaning the warm exhaust air of a linen drier |
JP2006187449A (en) * | 2005-01-06 | 2006-07-20 | Toshiba Corp | Washing/drying machine |
DE102005041145A1 (en) * | 2005-08-29 | 2007-03-01 | Alpha-Innotec Gmbh | Laundry dryer, has heat pump heating system comprising compressor with changeable output, and controller controlling and/or regulating output of compressor based on residual moisture in laundry that is to be dried |
DE102008055086A1 (en) * | 2008-12-22 | 2010-06-24 | BSH Bosch und Siemens Hausgeräte GmbH | Clothes drying apparatus and method for cleaning a screen |
DE102009046921A1 (en) * | 2009-11-20 | 2011-05-26 | BSH Bosch und Siemens Hausgeräte GmbH | Dryer with a lint filter and a cleaning device |
EP2386679B1 (en) * | 2010-05-13 | 2020-07-01 | Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. | Clothes dryer |
EP2478969B1 (en) * | 2011-01-24 | 2017-01-04 | Electrolux Home Products Corporation N.V. | Home appliance |
JP2013085687A (en) * | 2011-10-18 | 2013-05-13 | Panasonic Corp | Clothing drying machine |
DE102013217468A1 (en) * | 2013-09-02 | 2015-03-05 | BSH Bosch und Siemens Hausgeräte GmbH | Distributing a liquid in a household appliance |
WO2015101387A1 (en) * | 2013-12-30 | 2015-07-09 | Electrolux Appliances Aktiebolag | Laundry treatment apparatus with fluff filter washing arrangement |
KR102231079B1 (en) * | 2014-07-08 | 2021-03-24 | 엘지전자 주식회사 | Drain pump assembly and dryer for clothes having the same |
WO2016085432A1 (en) * | 2014-11-28 | 2016-06-02 | Arcelik Anonim Sirketi | A laundry dryer |
EP3234255B1 (en) * | 2014-12-16 | 2019-05-15 | Electrolux Appliances Aktiebolag | Laundry drying apparatus with a filter system |
-
2017
- 2017-07-31 EP EP17184070.5A patent/EP3282049B1/en active Active
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EP3282050A1 (en) | 2018-02-14 |
EP3282049A1 (en) | 2018-02-14 |
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