ES2634335T3 - Drying machine and washing machine comprising a drying machine - Google Patents

Abstract

A dryer machine (500), comprising: a housing (1); an external tank (2) supported in the housing (1); a drum (3) configured to accommodate clothes; a heat pump device (30) that includes a heat exchanger (HEX) configured to dry the clothes in the drum (3); a blower (9) configured to blow dry air; a circulating ventilation channel (8) that connects the external tank (2) with the heat exchanger (HEX) to define a circulation path through which the dry air of the blower (9) circulates; a filter (40) disposed in the circulating ventilation channel (8) and configured to prevent the infiltration of dust components in the heat exchanger (HEX), and the heat exchanger (HEX) includes a dehumidifier (34) configured to absorb heat from dry air with the refrigerant and a radiator (32) configured to heat dry air with the refrigerant, a recovery structure (45) that is configured to recover a condensed water component in the dehumidifier (34) and which disposed below the dehumidifier (34), where the filter (40), the heat exchanger (HEX) and the blower (9) are arranged in sequence along a direction of dry air flow, the filter (40) and the heat exchanger (HEX) is arranged above the external tank (2) formed in the housing (1), characterized in that at least one concave part is formed in the recovery structure (35).

Description

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DESCRIPTION

Drying machine and washing machine comprising a drying machine Technical field

The present invention relates to a drying machine and a washing machine comprising a drying machine that is provided with a heat pump device. The washing machine comprising a drying machine and which can work as a washing machine and / or a drying machine is hereinafter referred to as "washing machine and dryer" (see document no. JP-A-2009 077771).

Background of the technique

A dryer machine, such as a drum-type washer and dryer machine for drying clothes, typically comprises a heat pump mechanism. The heat pump mechanism can dry clothes with less energy consumption than a device using a heater. In addition, the heat pump mechanism can dehumidify dry air after drying clothes without cooling water and recover heat from dry air. Therefore, the heat pump mechanism is advantageous in terms of water saving and energy saving compared to a device configured to dry clothes with a heater (refer to Japanese Patent Application No. 2006-110394) .

A heat pump mechanism generally comprises a compressor configured to compress refrigerant, a heat exchanger configured to exchange heat with dry air to dry clothes, and a circulation tube configured to define the refrigerant circulation path between the compressor and the heat exchanger. A heat exchanger generally comprises a dehumidifier configured to dehumidify dry air and a heater configured to heat dry air.

Fig. 11 schematically shows a conventional washer and dryer machine. The conventional washer and dryer machine is now described with reference to Fig. 11.

The conventional drum-type washer and dryer machine 150 comprises a housing 100, a rotating drum 103 configured to rotate in the housing 100, and a water tank 102 configured to accommodate the rotating drum 103. In the following description, an internal space of the housing 100 formed under water tank 102 is referred to as a lower space. Also, the internal space of the housing 100 above the water tank 102 is referred to as an upper space.

The washer and dryer machine 150 further comprises a heat pump mechanism 130 disposed in the lower space, and a circulating ventilation channel 108 configured to communicate the heat pump mechanism 130 and the water tank 102. The washer and dryer machine 150 further comprises a filter 140 configured to retain the lint (dust components) that is generated during a laundry drying process, and an air blower 109 configured to blow dry air into the circulating ventilation channel 108 Use to dry clothes. The filter 140 and the air blower 109 are mounted in the circulating ventilation channel 108.

Dry air is discharged from an upper portion of the water tank 102, and then passes through the filter 140. The filter 140 removes lint from the dry air. The air blower 109 then sends the dry air to the heat pump mechanism 130. The heat pump mechanism 130 comprises a heat exchanger (not shown) configured to exchange heat with the dry air. The heat exchanger dehumidifies and heats dry air. Dry air then flows into the rotating drum 103 once more

As described above, because the heat pump mechanism 130 of the washer and dryer machine 150 is disposed in the lower space of the housing 100, the circulating ventilation channel 108 configured to define the dry air circulation path between the water tank 102 and the heat pump mechanism 130 becomes longer, which increases the loss of dry air pressure that passes through the longer circulating ventilation channel 108. Therefore, it is difficult for a conventional washer and dryer machine 150 to reach a faster circulation speed and / or a larger circulating volume of dry air.

An insufficient dry air flow rate in the circulating ventilation channel 108 reduces an amount of heat exchange between the heat exchanger arranged in the circulating ventilation channel 108 and the dry air. Consequently, it takes longer to dry clothes. In addition, more energy is required to dry clothes.

Document No. JP 2009-077771 A refers to a drying machine and a washing machine and dryer. The drying machine is provided with a rotating drum containing clothes, an engine that activates the rotating drum, a housing that supports the rotating drum, and a heat pump that is equipped with a compressor that compresses a cooling medium, a thermal radiator that radiates heat from the compressed coolant, a decompression medium that reduces the pressure in the coolant, and a heat absorber so that the decompressed coolant absorbs surrounding heat and is composed in such a way that the cooling medium circulates while Repeat compression and expansion. The air circulates through the thermal radiator, the rotating drum,

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of the heat absorber, and of the thermal radiator, in this order during the drying operation. The drying machine is provided with a means to blow air directly to the clothes contained in the rotating drum during the drying operation.

Compendium of the invention

It is an objective of the present invention to provide an improved and useful drying machine in which the aforementioned problems are eliminated. To achieve the aforementioned objective, a drying machine according to claim 1 is provided. Advantageous embodiments are defined by the dependent claims.

Advantages of the invention

Hereinafter, the advantageous embodiments of the invention are described. The features of different embodiments that have the same or similar function as the features of other embodiments can be exchanged. In particular, the features of different embodiments can be combined, in particular those that have different functions.

Brief description of the drawings

Fig. 1 is a cross-sectional view showing a schematic configuration of a drum-type washer and dryer machine, in accordance with one embodiment;

Fig. 2 is a partial view of an aspect of the front surface of the drum-type washer and dryer machine shown in Fig. 1;

Fig. 3 is a schematic perspective view showing an internal structure of the drum-type washer and dryer machine shown in Fig. 1;

Fig. 4 is a schematic top view of the drum-type washer and dryer machine shown in Fig. 1;

Fig. 5 is a cross-sectional view along line A-A shown in Fig. 4;

Fig. 6 is a schematic perspective view showing a top configuration of the drum-type washer and dryer machine shown in Fig. 1;

Fig. 7 is a schematic perspective view showing a support member in the washer and dryer machine shown in Fig. 1;

Fig. 8 is a schematic perspective view showing the drum-type washer and dryer machine shown in Fig. 1;

Fig. 9 is a schematic perspective view showing another arrangement of the support member in the drum-type washer and dryer machine shown in Fig. 1;

Fig. 10 is a schematic perspective view showing the drum-type washer and dryer machine shown in Fig. 9; Y

Fig. 11 is a schematic perspective view showing conventional washer and dryer machine configured to dry clothes with a heat pump.

Description of preferred embodiments

A drying machine, according to one embodiment, is now described with reference to the attached drawings. In this embodiment, a drum-type washer and dryer machine is illustrated as the dryer machine. Alternatively, the drying machine can be a different type of washing machines and dryers. Additionally, the drying machine can also be a drying device without a washing function. Therefore, the detailed structures described below do not limit the principles in any way, in accordance with this embodiment.

(General configuration of drum washer and dryer machine)

Fig. 1 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the drum-type washer and dryer machine. Fig. 2 is a perspective view partially showing a front surface of the drum-type washer and dryer machine. Fig. 3 is a schematic perspective view showing an internal structure of the drum-type washer and dryer machine.

A washer and dryer machine 500 comprises a housing 1 that includes a wall configured to define an internal space to accommodate various elements (for example, rotating drum 3, water tank 2 and storage device).

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heat pump 30 described below) to clean and dry clothes. The wall of the housing 1 includes a front wall 1e disposed on the front side, a rear wall 1d arranged opposite the front wall 1e, a right wall 1a disposed between the front wall 1e and the rear wall 1d, and a left wall 1b arranged opposite the right wall 1a. The front wall 1e, the rear wall 1d, the right wall 1a and the left wall 1b remain vertically. In this embodiment, at least one between the right wall 1a and the left wall 1b is illustrated as a side wall. Also, the right wall 1a is illustrated as a first side wall, and the left wall 1b is illustrated as a second side wall.

The wall of the housing 1 includes an upper wall 1c surrounded by upper edges of the front wall 1e, the rear wall 1d, the right wall 1a and the left wall 1b, and a base wall 1f surrounded by lower edges of the front wall 1e , the rear wall 1d, the right wall 1a and the left wall 1b.

The front wall 1e is formed with an access opening through which the clothes are inserted and removed. The washing machine and dryer 500 further comprises a door 5 configured to open or close the access opening. The door 5 mounted on the front wall 1e is rotated between an open position (refer to Fig. 1) to open the access opening and a closed position (refer to Fig. 2) to close the access opening.

The washer and dryer machine 500 further comprises an approximately cylindrical rotating drum 3 disposed in the housing 1. The rotating drum 3 configured to wash and dry the clothes includes a peripheral wall 531 to form an opening in communication with the access opening of the wall front 1e, and a rear wall 532 opposite the opening formed by the peripheral wall 531. The clothing placed through the access opening is accommodated in the rotating drum 3.

The washer and dryer machine 500 further comprises an approximately cylindrical water tank 2 disposed in the housing 1. The water tank 2 includes a peripheral wall 521 surrounding peripheral wall 531 of the rotating drum 3, and a rear wall 522 along the rear wall 532 of the rotating drum 3. The water tank 2 internally stores washing water for washing clothes. In this embodiment, the water tank 2 is illustrated as an external tank.

The washer and dryer machine 500 further comprises a water supply pipe (not shown) configured to supply water to the water tank 2. The water supply pipe connected to the water tank 2 includes a water supply valve (not shown) ). The water supply valve is used to control the water supply to the water tank 2. The washing machine and dryer 500 further comprises a drain pipe (not shown) to drain water from the water tank 2. The connected drain pipe to water tank 2 includes a drain valve (not shown). The drain valve is used to control the drainage of the water tank 2.

An air outlet 11 is formed in an upper part of the peripheral wall 521 of the water tank 2. Dry air after drying the clothes in the rotating drum 3 which is rotatably mounted in the water tank 2, is discharged efficiently from the air outlet 11. In this embodiment, the air outlet 11 is formed above the maximum liquid level of the wash water in the water tank 2 / rotating drum 3 to prevent the wash water from flowing out from the air outlet 11. If drying apparatus without washing functions are used as the drying machine, the air outlet 11 can be formed in an arbitrary location on the peripheral wall 531 of the rotating drum 3 or on the rear wall 532.

As shown in Fig. 3, the washer and dryer machine 500 further comprises a damper 523 that includes an upper end connected to the peripheral wall 521 of the water tank 2 and a lower end connected to the base wall 1f of the housing 1 The rotating drum 3 rotates in the water tank 2. The shock absorber 523 configured to support the water tank 2 in the housing 1 absorbs the vibration caused by the rotation of the rotating drum 3.

The washer and dryer machine 500 further comprises a drive motor 7 configured to rotate the rotating drum 3. The drive motor 7 is mounted on an external surface of the rear wall 522 of the water tank 2. A rotating shaft of the rotating drum 3 which rotates by the drive motor 7 tilts upward towards the front side.

The clothes in the rotating drum 3 sometimes cause an imbalance of the weight in the rotating drum 3 and / or the water tank 2. Consequently, the vibration caused by the rotation of the rotating drum 3 is transmitted to the water tank 2. The 523 damper that supports the water tank 2 attenuates the vibration of the water tank 2.

As described above, the door 5 for opening and closing the access opening of the rotating drum 3 is mounted on the front wall 1e of the housing 1. A user can open the door 5 to put the clothes in or out of the rotating drum 3.

As shown in Fig. 2, the washer and dryer machine 500 further comprises an operation panel 4. The operation panel 4 is arranged along an upper edge of the front wall 1e of the housing 1. The control panel Operation 4 includes several operation keys 541 that are used to operate the washer and dryer machine 500, and a display window 542 configured to display various types of information such as modes of operation.

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500 washer and dryer machine operation.

The washer and dryer machine 500 further comprises a detergent supply unit 10 configured to hold detergent inside the housing 1. The detergent supply unit 10 disposed on the lower left side of the operation panel 4 can be removed to the front side. The detergent supply unit 10 comprises a storage container (not shown) configured to hold the detergent in the housing 1. The storage container can be divided, for example, into a first storage part (not shown) configured to accommodate detergent powder, a second storage part (not shown) configured to accommodate liquid detergent and a third storage part (not shown) configured to accommodate fabric softener.

(Heat pump device)

Fig. 4 is a schematic top view of the washer and dryer machine 500. Fig. 5 is a cross-sectional view along line AA shown in Fig. 4. Fig. 6 is a view in schematic perspective showing a superior configuration of the washer and dryer machine 500. The heat pump device is now described with reference to Fig. 1 and Figs. 3 to Fig. 6.

The washer and dryer machine 500 comprises a heat pump device 30 configured to dry clothes. The washer and dryer machine 500 uses the heat pump device 30 to dehumidify and heat the dry air extracted from the rotating drum 3.

As described above, the housing 1 forms an internal space to accommodate various devices such as the rotating drum 3, the water tank 2 and the heat pump device 30. In the following description, a narrower space above the tank of Water 2 in the internal space of the housing 1 is referred to as an upper space. Also, the space under the water tank 2 in the internal space of the housing 1 is referred to as a lower space. The heat pump device 30 and the mayona of the various elements that form a circulating path of dry air between the heat pump device 30 and the rotating drum 3 are arranged in the upper space.

As shown in Fig. 1, the washer and dryer machine 500 further comprises a circulating ventilation channel 8 that communicates the water tank 2 and the heat pump device 30. The circulating ventilation channel 8 includes a ventilation channel upstream 581 extending upward from the air outlet 11, and a downstream ventilation channel 582 connected to the rear wall 522 of the water tank 2.

The washer and dryer machine 500 further comprises a filter 40 disposed between the upstream ventilation channel 581 and the heat pump device 30. The filter 40 connected to the upstream ventilation channel 581 removes lint (dust components) in the air dry, where the dry air then flows into the heat pump device 30. As described above, the heat pump device 30 dehumidifies and heats the dry air.

The washer and dryer machine 500 further comprises a blower 9 disposed between the heat pump device 30 and the downstream ventilation channel 582. The blower 9 sucks dry air from the air outlet 11 of the water tank 2 and after that resends dry air to the rotating drum 3 through the downstream ventilation channel 582. Dry air sent from the blower 9 thus recirculates along a circulating path defined by the circulating ventilation channel 8.

As described earlier in this embodiment, several elements (filter 40, heat pump device 30 and blower 9) that form the circulating path of dry air between the heat pump device 30 and the rotating drum 3 are intensively arranged in the upper space, which results in less pressure loss, faster circulation and a sufficient volume of dry air.

As shown in Figs. 3 to 5, the heat pump device 30 comprises a compressor 31 configured to compress refrigerant, a HEX heat exchanger configured to dry the clothes in the rotating drum 3 and a decompressor 33 which includes an expansion valve (or capillary tube) to decompress the pressure of the highly pressurized refrigerant. The HEX heat exchanger comprises a heating portion 32 configured to radiate heat from the highly hot and pressurized refrigerant after compression by the compressor 31, and a dehumidifier 34 configured to remove heat from the periphery with the low pressure decompressed refrigerant. In this embodiment, the heating portion 32 is illustrated as a radiator, and the dehumidifier 34 is illustrated as a heat absorber.

As shown in Fig. 3, the heat pump device 30 further comprises a tub 20 configured to connect the compressor 31, the heating portion 32 and the dehumidifier 34 that are used in the HEX heat exchanger and in the decompressor 33. The refrigerant flowing along the tubena 20 circulates between the compressor 31, the heating portion 32, the dehumidifier 34 and the decompressor 33.

Fig. 3 shows a generatrix G extending from an apex 2a (the highest point of the rear wall 522 in the form of a disk) of the rear wall 522 of the water tank 2. The generatrix G is the highest among the

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generatrices representing an outer surface of the peripheral wall 521 of the water tank 2.

The compressor 31 on the peripheral wall 521 of the water tank 2 moves towards the right wall 1a with respect to the generatrix G. The compressor 31 includes a lower surface 31a below the generatrix G, because the upper space above the peripheral wall 521 of the water tank 2 is advantageously used to mount the compressor 31, the heat pump device 30 comprising the compressor 31 can be properly accommodated in the smaller housing 1. Because the compressor 31 moves towards the right wall 1a (or left wall 1b) with respect to the higher generatrix G, the heat pump device 30 can be arranged in the upper space without increasing the height of the housing 1, This results in a reduction in the size of the 500 washer and dryer machine.

The refrigerant flowing along the pipe 20 in the heating portion 32 exchanges heat with the peripheral air (dry air flowing from the filter 40 in the heating portion 32). Consequently, while the refrigerant is heated and vaporized, the moisture in the dry air condenses, so that the moisture in the dry air is removed as a consequence.

The vaporized refrigerant flows into the compressor 31. The compressor 31 compresses the refrigerant, which results in a hot and pressurized refrigerant, which then flows into the heating portion 32. In the heating portion 32 the refrigerant exchanges heat with the periphery (dry air flowing from the dehumidifier 34 in the heating portion 32). Consequently, while the dry air heats up, the refrigerant cools and liquefies.

The decompressor 33 decompresses the high pressure liquefied refrigerant, which results in low temperature and low pressure of the refrigerant flowing in the dehumidifier 34 once again.

As described above, blower 9 blows the dry air into the water tank 2 through the downstream ventilation channel 582. The dry air then flows into the rotating drum 3 through the water tank 2. The clothes in the Rotating drum 3 dries that way.

As a result of drying clothes, dry air contains a large amount of moisture. As described above, the blower 9 sucks the dry air into the rotating drum 3 from the air outlet 11 of the water tank 2. The dry air thereby reaches the heat pump device 30 via the water ventilation channel above 581 and filter 40.

As described above, the dehumidifier 34 of the heat pump device 30 initially dehumidifies and cools the dry air. Consequently, moisture in dry air condenses and separates from dry air. Dry air then flows into the heating portion 32. The heating portion 32 heats the dry air, as described above. Consequently, the dry air after it passes through the heat pump device 30 converts a higher temperature and a lower humidity. The blower 9 resends the heated and less humid dry air to the rotating drum 3.

As shown in Figs. 4 and 6, the blower 9 fixed to the heat pump device 30 is disposed near the compressor 31. In this embodiment, the blower 9 is disposed between the compressor 31 and the left wall 1b. Because a left space of the compressor 31 displaced towards the right wall 1a with respect to the generatrix G of the peripheral wall 521 of the water tank 2 is advantageously used to install the blower 9, the blower 9 can be properly accommodated in a housing 1 smaller. The placement of the heat pump device 30 and the blower 9 aligned between the right wall 1a and the left wall 1b is less likely to require an increase in height of the housing 1, which results in the compact washer and dryer machine 500 .

The lint (dust components) is generated from the dried clothes in the rotating drum 3. The adhesion and lint accumulation in the HEX heat exchanger worsens the effective circulation of dry air and the effective heat exchange by the HEX heat exchanger .

The washer and dryer machine 500 comprises a filter 40 disposed on an upstream side of the HEX heat exchanger. The filter 40 retains and collects foreign bodies such as lint, dust and pollen from the dry air before the dry air passes through the HEX heat exchanger to prevent the lint from infiltrating the HEX heat exchanger. The filter 40 mounted on the circulating ventilation channel 8 in the upper space of the housing 1 is provided near the front wall 1e. Accordingly, a consumer or a worker attempting to remove the lint accumulated in the filter 40 can perform maintenance work while remaining close to the front wall 1e of the housing 1, which results in a highly efficient maintenance work for the 500 washer and dryer machine.

As shown in Fig. 5, filter 40 includes a first filter 40A, and a second filter 40B disposed on a downstream side of the first filter 40A. The first filter 40A is more coarse than the second filter 40B. Accordingly, the second filter 40B retains and collects smaller lint and other foreign bodies that pass through the first filter 40A, which results in less deterioration of the heat exchange efficiency of the heat pump device 30 and efficiency of Circulation of the blower 9, which is caused by the adhesion of fluff and other foreign bodies. Also, filter 40 is likely to prevent the spread of lint and other foreign bodies outside

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of the housing 1, which results in a minor contamination around the washing machine and dryer 500.

As shown in Fig. 2, an opening 40c is formed in the upper wall 1c of the housing 1. The first filter 40A is attached and removed from the circulating ventilation channel 8 through the opening 40c formed near an edge front of the upper wall 1c. Therefore, the consumer or the worker can attach or remove the first filter 40A from the housing 1 while remaining close to the front wall 1e of the housing 1, which results in highly efficient maintenance work for the washer and dryer machine 500

Unlike the first filter 40A, the second filter 40B is fixed to the circulating ventilation channel 8. Because the first filter 40A removes lint and other foreign bodies in the dry air before the second filter 40B, the second filter 40B becomes clogged. less frequently Likewise, the consumer or the worker can clean the second filter 40B through the opening 40c formed in the upper wall 1c of the housing 1. Therefore, less effort is required to resolve the obstruction of the second filter 40B fixed to the ventilation channel circulating 8.

The HEX heat exchanger is arranged immediately after the second filter 40B. As described above, the HEX heat exchanger causes the heated refrigerant to flow through the compressor 31. It is likely that the second filter 40B attached to the circulating ventilation channel 8 prevents a consumer who is not familiar with the maintenance work from easily contacting HEX heat exchanger. Also, unlike the first filter 40A, because the second filter 40B is fixed to the circulating ventilation channel 8, the position of the second filter 40B barely changes, resulting in less lint infiltration in the HEX heat exchanger due to that the second filter 40B is less likely to be improperly installed.

The filter 40 causes a loss of dry air pressure. As a result of such a loss of pressure, the distribution of dry air velocity becomes uniform (that is, the flow of dry air is regulated). As shown in Figs. 4 and 5, the filter 40 is arranged immediately after the HEX heat exchanger. Consequently, regulated dry air flows into the HEX heat exchanger.

In general, if a circulating ventilation channel is shortened to decrease the size of the washer and dryer machine, it may be difficult to install a regulation mechanism (for example, a straight pipe) in the circulating ventilation channel. However, according to this embodiment, because the filter 40 regulates dry air, a shorter flow path length is required to regulate dry air. The entry of regulated dry air into the HEX heat exchanger is less likely to cause a considerable and local change in heat exchange efficiency, which results in an improved heat exchange efficiency of the HEX heat exchanger.

As described above, the filter 40 provided on the upstream side of the HEX heat exchanger regulates the dry air without installing any rectification mechanism (for example, a straight pipe) in the circulating ventilation channel 8. Therefore, You can design the shortest circulating ventilation channel 8.

As shown in Figs. 1 and 5, the dehumidifier 34 of the HEX heat exchanger includes an introductory surface 534 in which dry air flows. The filter 40 is disposed near the introductory surface 534. Accordingly, the dry air regulated with the filter 40 is linearly sent to the dehumidifier 34 arranged immediately after the filter 40.

As described above, filter 40 regulates dry air to decrease a flow rate of dry air. Because the circulating ventilation channel 8 barely deflects the direction of dry air flow between the filter 40 and the introductory surface 534, the dry air flows linearly in the dehumidifier 34 immediately after the reduction in the flow rate. Consequently, dry air, after passing through dehumidifier 34, is less likely to become locally a high flow rate, resulting in less dispersion of the condensed water component in dehumidifier 34.

As shown in Fig. 5, the washer and dryer machine 500 further comprises a recovery structure 35 configured to recover the condensed water component in the dehumidifier 34. The recovery structure 35 is disposed below the dehumidifier 34. As described previously, because the filter 40 barely causes the dispersion of the condensed water component in the dehumidifier 34, the water component can be sufficiently recovered by using the smaller recovery structure 35, which results in a reduction of machine size washer and dryer 500.

A concave part (not shown) is formed in the recovery structure 35. The condensed water component in the dehumidifier 34 is filtered in the concave part through the surface of the dehumidifier 34. A range of the concave part can be determined so that The concave part properly receives the water component dispersed downstream by dry air.

As described above, the filter 40 for regulating dry air decreases the dispersion of the condensed water component in the dehumidifier 34. Therefore, a smaller area of the concave portion is acceptable to receive the water component that is filtered from the dehumidifier. 34. Therefore, the component of

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water can be properly recovered with the smallest recovery structure 35.

As described above, the water component less dispersed by the filter 40 is properly recovered with the recovery structure 35. The recovered water component is preferably discharged from the concave part of the recovery structure 35 out of the washing machine and dryer 500. For example, the water component can be drained along with the wash water to the drain outlet provided under the housing 1.

The recovery structure 35 is arranged in the upper space of the housing 1 together with the HEX heat exchanger. Accordingly, the water component recovered with the recovery structure 35 is properly drained using potential energy. The discharge of the water component of the recovery structure 35 does not require a specific discharge system such as a pump, which results in the compact washer and dryer machine 500.

As described above, the filter 40 disposed immediately after the HEX heat exchanger effectively decreases the entry of lint and other foreign bodies into the HEX heat exchanger. Despite this, as a result of the prolonged use of the washing machine and dryer 500, threads and other foreign bodies can adhere and / or accumulate in the HEX heat exchanger.

As described above, the HEX heat exchanger is provided in the upper part in the housing 1. The worker can remove the first filter 40A through the opening 40c formed in the upper wall 1c of the housing 1. Next, the worker the second filter 40B can be removed from the circulating ventilation channel 8 with a special tool, the worker can therefore access the HEX heat exchanger to remove the lint and other foreign bodies from the HEX heat exchanger. The worker can perform the series of operations, such as removing the first filter 40A, the second filter 40B and cleaning the lint and other foreign bodies of the HEX heat exchanger while remaining close to the front wall 1e of the housing 1, which gives As a result, highly efficient maintenance work for the 500 washer and dryer machine.

(Filter structure)

The structure of the filter 40 is now described with reference to Fig. 5.

The first substantially cylindrical filter 40A of the filter 40 includes a coarser mesh filter than the mesh filter used as the second filter 40B. The first filter 40A includes a peripheral surface formed with an opening. The opening formed in the peripheral surface of the first filter 40A is used as an inlet portion 41 in which dry air flows. Dry air discharged from the rotating drum 3 flows into the first filter 40A through the inlet portion 41.

The second filter 40B fixed in a position downstream of the first filter 40A includes a flat mesh filter.

The filter 40 comprises a cover part 42 disposed above the first filter 40A. When the first filter 40A is mounted on the washer and dryer machine 500, the cover part 42 fits into the opening 40c formed in the upper wall 1c of the housing 1. The cover part 42 is preferably formed so that it can Be held by a consumer. When the consumer tries to mount the first filter 40A, the consumer can use the cover part 42 as a knob member.

The first substantially cylindrical filter 40A includes an area Ll that causes considerable pressure loss, and an area Ls that causes less pressure loss. The area Ls that exists in the approximate center of the first filter 40A is opposite the inlet portion 41 and collides directly with the dry air flowing from the inlet portion 41. The area Ll exists above and below the area Ls.

After the dry air passes through the first cylindrical filter 40A, which causes the pressure loss profile mentioned above, it flows into the HEX heat exchanger. As a result of the aforementioned pressure loss, the distribution of dry air velocity that flows faster in an upper part of the dehumidifier 34 and slower in a lower part of the dehumidifier 34 is obtained. The first cylindrical filter 40A is preferably arranged near of the introductory surface 534 of the dehumidifier 34, which effectively results in less dispersion of the condensed water component in the dehumidifier 34.

The droplets of the condensed water component in the dehumidifier 34 are smaller in the upper part of the dehumidifier 34. While the droplets of the water component are filtered down, the droplets are mixed with droplets of other water components. Consequently, the droplets of the water component gradually become larger as they filter down. Therefore, although the droplets of the larger water component adhere to the lower part of the dehumidifier 34, the droplets of the smaller water component adhere to the upper part of the dehumidifier 34.

As described above, the speed of dry air in the lower part of the dehumidifier 34 is less than the speed of dry air in the upper part of the dehumidifier 34. Therefore, it is less likely that the droplets of the larger water component will disperse , which results in a more dispersion interval

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small of the condensed water component in the dehumidifier 34. Accordingly, the condensed water component in the dehumidifier 34 can be properly recovered with the smaller recovery structure 35.

(Comparison with a conventional washer and dryer machine)

The washing machine and dryer 500, in accordance with this embodiment, comprises, as described above, the heat pump device 30 and the filter 40 attached to the heat pump device 30. Both the filter 40 and the HEX heat exchanger of the Heat pump device 30 are arranged in the upper space of the housing 1 (space above the water tank 2). Accordingly, the filter 40 is arranged near the HEX heat exchanger.

The filter 40, the HEX heat exchanger and the blower 9 are arranged in order along the dry air flow direction. Filter 40 regulates dry air. The regulated dry air flows in the HEX heat exchanger. The HEX heat exchanger dehumidifies and heats dry air. The blower 9 then sends the dry air to the rotating drum 3.

A conventional washer and dryer machine comprises a heat pump device disposed in the lower space of the housing (space below the water tank), and a filter arranged in the upper space of the housing (space above the water tank). The filter, the blower and the heat exchanger are arranged in order along the direction of dry air flow.

As described earlier in this embodiment, because the filter 40 is disposed near the HEX heat exchanger, dry air circulates using a circulating ventilation channel 8 shorter than the circulating ventilation channel adopted in the conventional washer and dryer machine previously mentioned. Consequently, a lower loss of dry air pressure flowing in the circulating ventilation channel 8 is achieved. The reduction in the loss of dry air pressure decreases the energy consumption of the blower 9 that blows the dry air. The reduction in the loss of dry air pressure further increases a flow rate of dry air flowing in the circulating ventilation channel 8.

The filter 40 disposed in the shortest circulating ventilation channel 8 regulates dry air. Dry air regulation improves the heat exchange efficiency of the HEX heat exchanger. Consequently, compared to the conventional washer and dryer machine, a quantity of heat exchange increases considerably per unit of time, which results in less energy consumption and less drying time.

(Dry air temperature detection)

Dry air temperature detection is now described with reference to Fig. 5.

The washer and dryer machine 500 further comprises a first temperature sensor 36 and a second temperature sensor 37. Both the first temperature sensor 36 and the second temperature sensor 37 are used to detect the dry air temperature in the ventilation channel circulating 8.

The first temperature sensor 36 detects the temperature of dry air flowing between the rotating drum 3 and the HEX heat exchanger. The first temperature sensor 36 is disposed between the filter 40 and the dehumidifier 34.

The second temperature sensor 37 detects the dry air temperature between the HEX heat exchanger and the rotating drum 3. The second temperature sensor 37 is arranged immediately after the blower 9.

The first temperature sensor 36 detects the dry air temperature after the dry air is dehumidified and heated by the HEX heat exchanger. The second temperature sensor 37 detects the dry air temperature after the dry air is dehumidified and heated by the HEX heat exchanger. The output signals of the first temperature sensor 36 and the second temperature sensor 37 are used to control the heat pump device 30.

The first temperature sensor 36 between the filter 40 and the HEX heat exchanger is provided near the area Ll where the pressure loss of the first substantially cylindrical filter 40a is greater (the upper portion or the lower portion of the first filter 40A). In the first filter 40A, the obstruction in the area Ll with a great loss of pressure is less likely to be caused by lint and other foreign bodies than the area Ls with a lower pressure loss. Therefore, the first temperature sensor 36 near the area Ll can accurately detect the dry air temperature for a long period. Because the temperature detected with the first temperature sensor 36 changes if the obstruction caused by lint and other foreign bodies occurs in the filter 40, the output signal of the first temperature sensor 36 can be used to detect the obstruction of the filter 40 Therefore, the first temperature sensor 36 near the area Ll can accurately detect the obstruction of the filter 40 for a long period.

The first temperature sensor 36 between the filter 40 and the HEX heat exchanger and the second temperature sensor

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temperature 37 arranged in the downstream position of blower 9 is deployed within the shortest circulating ventilation channel 8. A space between the first temperature sensor 36 and the second temperature sensor 37 becomes smaller. The first temperature sensor 36 and the second temperature sensor 37 in the smallest space may be less sensitive to error factors (eg, dry air leakage) that cause errors in temperature detection. Accordingly, the first temperature sensor 36 and the second temperature sensor 37 can accurately detect the temperature of dry air without being affected by error factors, such as dry air leakage.

(Support mechanism)

Fig. 7 is a schematic perspective view showing a support member of the washer and dryer machine 500. Fig. 8 is a schematically perspective view showing the washer and dryer machine 500. The support mechanism is now described with reference to Figs. 6 to 8.

The washer and dryer machine 500 further comprises a support mechanism 560 configured to support the heat pump device 30 in the housing 1. The support mechanism 560 includes a support member 61 configured to support the heat pump device 30 and a restriction member 62 configured to restrict the upward movement of the heat pump device 30.

As shown in Fig. 7, both ends of the support member 61 that supports the heat pump device 30 between the compressor 31 and the restriction member 62 are coupled with the upper edges of the right wall 1a and the left wall 1b, respectively. Similarly, both ends of the restriction member 62 engage with the upper edges of the right wall 1a and the left wall 1b, respectively.

The support member 61 extending between the right wall 1a and the left wall 1b below the heating portion 32 and / or the dehumidifier 34 disposed in an upstream position of the compressor 31 supports the heat pump device 30. In a position further away from the compressor 31 than the support member 61, the restriction member 62 extending between the right wall 1a and the left wall 1b restricts the upward movement of the heat pump device 30. In this embodiment, the Support member 61 is adjacent to compressor 31. Restriction member 62 extends above filter 40 disposed in the upstream position of heat pump device 30.

In the heat pump device 30, the compressor 31 is relatively heavier. The weight of the compressor 31 is applied to the right wall 1a and the left wall 1b by means of the support member 61 that supports the heat pump device 30 in the vicinity of the compressor 31. Accordingly, the weight of the compressor 31 reduces the vibration of the upper edges of the right wall 1a and the left wall 1b caused by vibration factors such as the rotation of the rotating drum 3. The weight of the heat pump device 30 loaded on the right wall 1a and the left wall 1b means increase the weight of the group of vibrating elements that include the right wall 1a and the left wall 1b. The increase in weight of the group of vibrating elements that include the right wall 1a and the left wall 1b decreases the amplitude of vibration that arises from the same excitation force. Consequently, because a considerable downward force is applied to the right wall 1a and the left wall 1b of the housing 1, even if the right wall 1a and the left wall 1b are subjected to rotation of the rotating drum 3 or others vibration factors, the vibration of the right wall 1a and the left wall 1b decreases appropriately, which means a minor overall vibration of the housing 1.

The support mechanism 560 comprising the support member 61 uses the gravity working on the heat pump device 30 that includes the compressor 31 to press the upper edges of the right wall 1a and the left wall 1b to effectively decrease vibration of the right and left walls 1a and 1b of the housing 1 caused by the rotation of the rotating drum 3 and other vibration factors.

Fig. 9 is a perspective view showing an alternative arrangement of the support member in the washer and dryer machine 500. Fig. 10 is a schematic perspective view of the washer and dryer machine 500. The alternative arrangement of the member of Support is now described with reference to Figs. 9 and 10.

The weight of the compressor 31 can be loaded into one between the right wall 1a and the left wall 1b. For example, as shown in Fig. 10, the support mechanism 560 may comprise a support member 63 extending between the right wall 1a and the rear wall 1d, instead of the support member 61 mentioned above. As shown in Fig. 10, the compressor 31 is arranged in a corner between the right wall 1a and the rear wall 1d. Because the compressor 31 is surrounded by the right wall 1a, the rear wall 1d and the support member 63, even if the washer and dryer machine 500 falls or is torn down, the heavier compressor 31 is properly supported by the wall right 1a, the rear wall 1d and the support member 63.

The support mechanism 560 is now described in greater detail with reference to Fig. 6 and Figs. 7 to 10

As shown in Fig. 6, the blower 9 near the compressor 31 is fixed to the heat pump device 30. Accordingly, the weight of the blower 9 is loaded on the right wall 1a and / or the left wall 1b, in addition of the weight of the heat pump device 30. Consequently, the vibration of the right wall 1a and / or the left wall 1b of the housing 1 caused by the rotation of the rotating drum 3 or other vibrating elements effectively decreases.

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The blower 9 includes an air pressure fan 9b configured to cause dry air to flow in the circulating ventilation channel 8, and an air pressure motor 9a configured to rotate the air pressure fan 9b. When the air pressure motor 9a rotates the air pressure fan 9b after the dry air passes through the heat pump device 30 it is sent to the rotating drum 3. The air pressure motor 9a is considerably heavier , similar to the compressor 31. As described above, the blower 9 is disposed near the compressor 31. The support member 61, 63 under the blower 9 extends along the compressor 31 and the blower 9, such that the support member 61, 63 is also used to support the blower 9, in addition to the compressor 31, which results in a simpler structure to support heavier elements (compressor 31 and blower 9). The simplest support structure contributes significantly to the reduction of a number of components, weight and cost of the 500 washer and dryer machine.

As described above, the restriction member 62 above the heat pump device 30 extends between the right wall 1a and the left wall 1b. The restriction member 62 is further away from the compressor 31 than the support member 61.

Restriction member 62 is now described with reference to Figs. 1, 3 and 6.

As shown in Figs. 1 and 3, the heaviest compressor 31 and the heaviest blower 9 are arranged near the rear wall 1d. Meanwhile, the lighter elements (for example, the HEX heat exchanger) are closer to the front wall 1e than the compressor 31 and the blower 9. Therefore, a time to lift the light weight elements close to the wall Front 1e can work on the dry air circulation mechanism that includes the heat pump device 30.

The closest restriction member 62 of the front wall 1e that the support member 61 decreases the upward movement of the lighter elements, such as the HEX heat exchanger. In this embodiment, the filter 40 is connected to the heat pump device 30. The restriction member 62 extends through a space above the filter 40 between the heat pump device 30 and the front wall 1e. Accordingly, the restriction member 62 appropriately restricts the upward displacement of the filter 40 and the heat pump device 30 of the HEX heat exchanger. Alternatively, the restriction member 62 may extend through a space above the HEX heat exchange of the heat pump device 30, such that the restriction member 62 directly restricts the upward movement of the HEX heat exchanger.

As described above, the heat pump device 30 and the peripheral elements (filter 40 and blower 9) of the heat pump device 30 are properly supported by the support members 61, 63 which extend through a space below of the heat pump device 30. Also, the restriction member 62 is mounted through the space above the heat pump device 30 and / or the filter 40. The restriction member 62 and the support member 61, 63 arranged above and below the heat pump device 30, respectively, adequately reduces the amplitude of vertical vibration, which results in less overall vibration of the housing 1 caused by the rotation of the rotating drum 3.

(Attachment of elements)

The aforementioned support mechanism 560 inhibits failure modes such as breaks or damages of an adjustment member such as a screw to hold several elements arranged in the upper space in the housing 1, in addition to the vibration of the housing 1. The mechanism of support 560 can properly support the heat pump device 30 and the peripheral elements (filter 40 and blower 9) of the heat pump device 30 even when, for example, the washer and dryer machine 500 falls or accidentally knocks down during the transport and / or installation thereof. The effect of the support mechanism 560 on the adjustment member used to hold the elements is now described.

Several components are also arranged in the upper housing space of an ordinary washer and dryer machine. The components arranged in the upper space are typically connected to a support element such as an upper wall of the housing. If the washer and dryer is dropped or knocked down, the adjusting member (for example, a screw or screw thread screw thread screw insert to engage with the screw) to fix the components in the space above the element of support is subjected to a greater tractive force due to the gravity that works on the components in the upper space as well as an impact force caused by coffee and demolition. An adjustment member used to fix heavier components is subjected to a much greater tractive force. Accordingly, it is likely that the adjustment member used to fix the components arranged in the upper space of the ordinary general washing machine will break when the ordinary washing machine and dryer falls or is knocked down.

In this embodiment, the compressor 31 and the blower 9 of the heat pump device 30 are heavier. The support member 61, 63 appropriately supports the compressor 31 and / or the blower 9. Also, the restriction member 62 furthest from the compressor 31 than the support member 61, 63 is placed through the space above the pump device of heat 30 and / or filter 40.

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When the washer and dryer machine 500 falls or is knocked down, the support member 61, 63 is subjected to the weight of the heat pump device 30 and / or the blower 9 and the impact force associated with the fall or demolition of the washing machine and dryer 500. The weight of the heat pump device 30 and / or the blower 9 and the impact force associated with the coffee or demolition of the washing machine and dryer 500 works as a compression force against the member of support 61, 63.

The compression force working on the support member 61.63 is also applied to the adjustment member such as a screw or a screw thread screw insert of helical coil to hold the support member 61, 63 and the device heat pump 30 / blower 9. Despite this, unlike the tractive force, the adjustment member is less likely to break due to the compression force.

In this embodiment, the support member 61, 63 is disposed near the heaviest compressor 31. Consequently, a moment is generated around the support member 61, 63. It is likely that the moment around the support member 61, 63 raises the lighter elements (filter 40 and HEX heat exchanger) that exist between the support member 61, 63 and the front wall 1e. The moment around the support member 61, 63 results in a compression force on the restriction member 62 mounted through the space above the heat pump device 30 and / or the filter 40. The compression force working on the restriction member 62 is also applied to the adjustment member such as a screw or helical coil cable screw thread insert to secure the restriction member 62 to the heat pump device 30 and / or the filter 40. Despite hence, unlike the tractive force, the adjustment member is less likely to break due to the compression force.

A casing height of the ordinary washer and dryer machine is increased according to a height of the support member to support the components in the upper space.

In this embodiment, the rotating drum 3 and the water tank 2 are inclined in the housing 1. Consequently, the upper space becomes wider near the rear wall 1d than near the front wall 1e. The largest volume of elements (compressor 31 and / or blower 9) is arranged in the upper space near the rear wall 1d. Accordingly, space wide enough is provided to provide the support member 61, 63 without increasing the height of the housing 1.

The structure for fixing the blower 9 and the heat pump device 30 is now described with reference to Fig. 4.

The washer and dryer machine 500 comprises a holding member 38 for fixing the blower 9 to the heat pump device 30. The blower 9 fixed to the heat pump device 30 with the holding member 38 is arranged next to the compressor 31. Consequently, as described above, the weight of the blower 9 is loaded on the right wall 1a and / or the left wall 1b, in addition to the weight of the heat pump device 30. The vibration of the right wall 1a and / or the Left wall 1b caused by the rotation of the rotating drum 3 and other vibration factors effectively decreases in that way.

The air pressure engine 9a is considerably heavier, similar to the compressor 31. The support member 61, 63 can support both the compressor 31 and the blower 9 due to the closest arrangement of the heavier compressor 31 and the blower 9 heavier, which results in a simpler structure to support the heaviest elements (compressor 31 and blower 9). The support of the heaviest elements (compressor 31 and blower 9) using the simplest structure contributes significantly to the reduction of the number of components, weight and cost of the washing machine and dryer 500.

(Provision of heat pump device)

The dehumidifier 34 and the heating portion 32 of the heat pump device 30 are preferably formed with highly conductive metal, such as copper or aluminum. Because the heat pump device 30 is disposed above the water tank 2, as described above, it is less likely that the dehumidifier 34 and the heating portion 32 will be exposed to the wash water. Therefore, the dehumidifier 34 and the heating portion 32 are less likely to cause metal corrosion generated from chemical components such as detergent, softener or bleach contained in the wash water.

Because the dehumidifier 34 and the heating portion 32 of the HEX heat exchanger are linearly aligned with respect to the blower 9 along the circulating path of dry air, the dry air flows approximately linearly in the HEX heat exchanger. In general, the diverted flow of fluid induces variation and loss of fluid pressure, but the straight arrangement of the dehumidifier 34 and the heating portion 32, according to this embodiment, hardly causes such variation and loss of fluid pressure, which results in efficient circulation of dry air. Consequently, blower 9 consumes less energy to flow dry air into the circulating ventilation channel 8.

As a result of a minor variation of dry air, the dry air that passes through the dehumidifier 34 is less likely to become locally high speed. As described above, dehumidifier 34 condenses moisture in dry air. The condensed water component will be taken once more to the drum

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Rotary 3 by means of the blower 9 by the dry air if the high-speed flow of dry air locally occurs locally in the dehumidifier 34. Accordingly, the clothes in the rotating drum 3 will absorb the water component once more. In this embodiment, the straight arrangement of the dehumidifier 34 and the heating portion 32 is less likely to cause high-speed dry air flow, as described above. Consequently, there is hardly any deterioration in the drying efficiency that is generated from the circulation of the condensed water component.

In general, if a fluid flow rate that passes through the heat pump device decreases, a heat absorber absorbs less heat from the fluid, which results in an incomplete vaporization of the refrigerant that passes through the heat absorber. . Next, the incompletely vaporized refrigerant reaches a compression device. The compression device can potentially malfunction as a result of the compression of a liquid refrigerant.

In this embodiment, because the straight arrangement of the dehumidifier 34 and the heating portion 32 maintains an appropriate dry air flow rate in the HEX heat exchanger, the complete vaporization of the refrigerant in the dehumidifier 34 can be easily achieved. Because a liquid refrigerant is less likely to flow into the compressor 31, the compressor 31 hardly works poorly, which results in increased reliability of the washer and dryer machine 500 comprising the heat pump device 30. As a result of the increase in reliability, continuous dehumidification is allowed without stopping the compressor 31 to cut the period of drying operation.

It should be noted that an ordinary refrigerant, such as HFC-based refrigerant (hydrofluorocarbon), HFO-based refrigerant (hydrofluoroolefin) and a carbon dioxide refrigerant can be suitably used as the refrigerant used in the heat pump device 30.

(Blower arrangement)

The arrangement of the blower 9 is now described with reference to Fig. 1.

As described above, the blower 9 comprises the air pressure motor 9a and the air pressure fan 9b. The air pressure motor 9a is mounted on top of the air pressure fan 9b. A rotation axis of the blower 9 is thus inclined downwardly towards the upstream side. Consequently, even if the condensed water component in the dehumidifier 34 is dispersed towards the blower 9, the water component adhered to the air pressure fan 9b is filtered in the direction opposite to the air pressure motor 9a due to gravity and the air flow of the air pressure fan 9b. Thus, the water component adhered to the air pressure fan 9b is hardly directed towards the air pressure motor 9a positioned above the air pressure fan 9b.

(Control panel layout)

The layout of the control board is now described with reference to Fig. 8.

The washer and dryer machine 500 comprises a control board 50 disposed in the housing 1. The control board 50 is mounted with electronic components (several circuits) to control the washer and dryer machine 500. The control board 50 is placed on top of the detergent supply unit 10, accommodated in the housing 1.

In comparison with a control board arranged in the lower space of the housing, the control board 50 according to this embodiment requires a shorter conductor wire to connect electrical elements such as the drive motor 7 and the pressure motor of air 9a. The control board 50 is arranged in the upper space of the housing 1 (preferably near the front wall 1e). Accordingly, the worker can repair the control board 50 while remaining close to the front wall 1e of the housing 1, which results in efficient maintenance work for the washer and dryer machine 500.

(Alternative configuration)

In this embodiment, filter 40 includes a first filter 40A and a second filter 40B and performs a two stage filtering process. Alternatively, the drying machine may comprise a filter device configured to perform a one-stage filtration process using a single filter element. Additionally, the drying machine can also comprise a filter device configured to perform a multistage filtering process, which includes more than two stages using more than two filter elements.

In this embodiment, the filter 40 comprises a first substantially cylindrical filter 40A. Alternatively, the drying machine may also comprise a flat filter element or a filter element with other shapes.

In this embodiment, the washer and dryer machine 500 has a washing function and a drying function. Alternatively, the drying machine does not have to have the washing function. For example, if the washing function is removed from the washing machine and dryer 500 mentioned above, a drying machine is obtained

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With only the drying function. A drying machine with only the drying function does not require tubenas, such as the water supply pipe and the drain pipe connected to the water tank 2 of the above-mentioned washing and drying machine 500. The element corresponding to the aforementioned water tank 2 is used as an external tank to surround the rotating drum 3. The other elements may be the same, as several elements of the aforementioned washer and dryer 500.

In this embodiment, the 500 washer and dryer machine is a drum-type washer and dryer machine. Alternatively, the drying machine can also be a washing machine and vertical dryer for drying hanging clothes. Even with the vertical washer and dryer machine, the principle according to the aforementioned embodiment can improve the reliability of the heat pump device, shorten the drying time, and achieve lower energy consumption.

The above-mentioned embodiment primarily includes the dryer machine configured as described below.

The drying machine according to an aspect of the aforementioned embodiment comprises a housing; an external tank supported on the housing; a rotating drum rotating assembly in the external tank and configured to accommodate clothes; a heat pump device that includes a heat exchanger configured to dry the clothes in the rotating drum; a blower configured to blow dry air; a circulating ventilation channel that connects the external tank with the heat pump device to define a circulation path through which the blower dry air circulates; and a filter arranged in the circulating ventilation channel and configured to prevent the infiltration of dust components in the heat exchanger, where the filter and heat exchanger are disposed in an upper space above the external tank formed in the housing, and the filter, the heat exchanger and the blower are arranged in sequence along a direction of dry air flow.

In accordance with the aforementioned configuration, both the filter and the heat exchanger of the heat pump device are disposed closely in the upper space above the external tank supported in the housing. The filter, the heat exchanger and the blower are arranged in sequence along the direction of dry air flow. The filter regulates dry air. The regulated dry air flows in the heat exchanger. The heat exchanger dehumidifies and heats dry air. The blower blows the dehumidified and heated dry air.

A conventional drying machine comprises a heat pump device disposed in a lower space formed below an external tank in a housing, and a filter disposed in the upper space formed above the external tank in the housing. The filter, the blower and the heat exchanger are arranged in sequence along a direction of dry air flow.

In accordance with the aforementioned configuration, because the filter, the heat exchanger and the blower are arranged in sequence along the direction of dry air flow, in comparison with a conventional drying machine, the circulating ventilation channel is shortened. Because the loss of dry air pressure flowing in the circulating ventilation channel decreases, the blower consumes less energy to blow dry air into the circulating ventilation channel. Also, the blower can increase the circulating volume of dry air.

According to the aforementioned configuration, because the filter is arranged in a position upstream of the heat exchanger, dry air is regulated without any regulation mechanism, such as a straight pipe in the circulating ventilation channel. The filter arranged in the upstream position of the heat exchanger causes loss of dry air pressure. Loss of dry air pressure causes a flat speed distribution of dry air (dry air is regulated). Because the regulated dry air flows in the heat exchanger, heat exchange efficiency is less likely to vary locally, which results in greater heat exchange efficiency.

As described above, a shorter circulating channel causes less loss of dry air pressure. Also, dry air is regulated in the shortest circulating channel, which results in greater efficiency of the heat exchanger. Therefore, the drying machine according to the above-mentioned configuration can achieve lower energy consumption and shorter drying time.

In addition, because the filter and heat exchanger are arranged in the upper space formed above the outer tank in the housing, the filter and heat exchanger are accessed from the top of the dryer. Therefore, a worker can perform the maintenance of the filter and the heat exchanger without moving the entire drying machine, which results in greater work efficiency.

In the aforementioned configuration, preferably, the heat exchanger includes a heat absorber configured to absorb heat from dry air with the refrigerant and a radiator configured to heat dry air with the refrigerant, the heat absorber includes an introductory surface in the The dry air flows and the filter is arranged near the introductory surface.

According to the aforementioned configuration, the filter is arranged near the introductory surface

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of the heat absorber in which dry air flows. Because the distribution of dry air velocity becomes flatter due to the regulation of dry air with the filter, it is less likely that the dry air that passes through the heat absorber will become locally faster. Consequently, it is less likely that the condensed water component in the heat absorber will disperse. A compact drying machine is provided because it is not necessary to prepare a large unit to recover the water component.

Because the heat exchanger is disposed in the upper space formed above the outer tank in the housing, the condensed water component in the heat absorber is discharged with potential energy instead of a drainage system, such as a pump, which results in a compact drying machine.

In the aforementioned configuration, preferably, the filter configured to retain and recover dust components in dry air includes a first removable filter provided in the circulating ventilation channel, and a second filter fixed in the circulating ventilation channel. The first filter is arranged in a position upstream of the second filter.

In accordance with the aforementioned configuration, the filter configured to retain and recover dust components in dry air includes a first removable filter provided in the circulating ventilation channel. The first filter is arranged in the upstream position of the second filter. The amount of powder components to be captured by the second filter is less than the amount of powder components to be captured by the first filter. Because it is less necessary to clean and replace the second filter frequently than the first filter, fixing the second filter to the circulating ventilation channel is less likely to affect the maintenance of the second filter, and additionally prevents a non-work related consumer easily access the heat exchanger. Also, because fixing the second filter to the circulating ventilation channel is less likely to result in improper placement of the second filter, the powder components are less likely to infiltrate the heat exchanger.

In the aforementioned configuration, preferably, the filter includes a cylindrical filter element, the filter element is formed with an inlet portion in which dry air flows, and the filter element is arranged in the circulating ventilation channel so that a speed Dry air flow in a lower portion of the heat absorber becomes less than a dry air flow rate in a higher portion of the heat absorber.

According to the aforementioned configuration, because the cylindrical filter element causes the dry air flow rate passing through the lower portion of the heat absorber to be lower than the dry air flow rate in the upper portion of the heat absorber, a condensed water component is less likely to be dispersed in the heat absorber. A compact drying machine is provided because it is not necessary to prepare a large unit to recover the water component.

In the aforementioned configuration, preferably, a support mechanism configured to support the heat pump device, wherein the housing includes a wall configured to define the upper space, the wall includes a vertical side wall and the support mechanism is connected to the side wall.

According to the configuration mentioned above, the housing includes a wall configured to define the upper space. The wall includes the vertical side wall. Because the support mechanism that supports the heat pump device is connected to the side wall, the weight of the heat pump is loaded onto the side wall, which results in less vibration of the side wall.

In the aforementioned configuration, preferably, wherein the support mechanism includes a support member disposed below the heat pump device, and a restriction member disposed above the heat pump device, the support member connected to the walls side supports the heat pump device, and the restriction member restricts an upward movement of the heat pump device.

In accordance with the previous configuration, the support members arranged below the heat pump device support the heat pump. Because the support member is connected to the side wall, the weight of the heat pump is loaded into the side wall, which results in less vibration of the side walls. The restriction member disposed above the heat pump device restricts the upward movement of the heat pump device, which results in less vertical movement of the heat pump device.

In the aforementioned configuration, preferably, the heat pump device includes a compressor configured to compress the refrigerant, and the support member supports the heat pump device between the compressor and the restriction member.

In accordance with the aforementioned configuration, because the compressor configured to compress the refrigerant is heavier, it is likely that a moment around the support member supporting the heat pump device between the compressor and the restriction member displaces the Heat pump device up. Because the restriction member disposed above the heat pump device

restricts the upward movement of the heat pump device, the heat pump device stabilizes in the upper space.

According to the aforementioned configuration, greater heat exchange efficiency is achieved with a shorter circulating channel. Therefore, the washer and dryer machine according to the above-mentioned configuration 5 can achieve lower energy consumption and less drying time.

Industrial applicability

The principle of the previous embodiment can be suitably applied to various types of drying machines and washing and drying machines, such as drum machines, hanger type or push button type.

Claims (6)

5 10 fifteen twenty 25 30 35 1. A drying machine (500), comprising: a housing (1); an external tank (2) supported in the housing (1); a drum (3) configured to accommodate clothes; a heat pump device (30) that includes a heat exchanger (HEX) configured to dry the clothes in the drum (3); a blower (9) configured to blow dry air; a circulating ventilation channel (8) that connects the external tank (2) with the heat exchanger (HEX) to define a circulation path through which the dry air of the blower (9) circulates; a filter (40) disposed in the circulating ventilation channel (8) and configured to prevent the infiltration of dust components in the heat exchanger (HEX), and The heat exchanger (HEX) includes a dehumidifier (34) configured to absorb heat from dry air with the refrigerant and a radiator (32) configured to heat dry air with the refrigerant, a recovery structure (45) that is configured to recover a condensed water component in the dehumidifier (34) and that is disposed below the dehumidifier (34), wherein the filter (40), the heat exchanger (HEX) and the blower (9) are arranged in sequence along a direction of dry air flow, the filter (40) and the heat exchanger (HEX) are arranged above the external tank (2) formed in the housing (1), characterized in that at least one concave part is formed in the recovery structure (35). 2. The drying machine (500) according to claim 1, wherein the filter (40) includes a first filter (40A) and a second filter (40B), wherein the second filter (40B) is disposed on a downstream side of the first filter (40A). 3. The dryer machine (500) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the recovery structure (35) is disposed above the external tank (2) in the upper space of the housing (1). 4. The drying machine (500) according to claim 2, wherein the housing (1) includes a front wall (1e) arranged on a front side, a rear wall (1d) arranged opposite the front wall (1e), a side wall (1a, 1b) and an upper wall (1c ) surrounded by upper edges of the front wall (1e), the rear wall (1d) and the side wall (1a, 1b), and The filter (40) is provided near the front wall (1e). 5. The drying machine (500) according to claim 4, wherein an opening (40c) is formed in the upper wall (1c), and The first filter (40A) is removable from the housing (1) through the opening (40c). 6. A washing machine (500) comprising the drying machine of one of the preceding claims, comprising: an external tank (2) configured to store wash water; Y the drum (3) configured to rotate in the external tank (2) to wash and dry clothes.