WO2018219458A1 - Household appliance with an improved energy efficiency and operability - Google Patents

Household appliance with an improved energy efficiency and operability Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2018219458A1
WO2018219458A1 PCT/EP2017/063257 EP2017063257W WO2018219458A1 WO 2018219458 A1 WO2018219458 A1 WO 2018219458A1 EP 2017063257 W EP2017063257 W EP 2017063257W WO 2018219458 A1 WO2018219458 A1 WO 2018219458A1
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WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
cover
aperture
household appliance
apertures
shape memory
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/EP2017/063257
Other languages
French (fr)
Inventor
Koray ERDOGAN
Ergin Arslan
Egemen TINAR
Kenan Atac
Vasi Kadir Ertis
Original Assignee
Arcelik Anonim Sirketi
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Arcelik Anonim Sirketi filed Critical Arcelik Anonim Sirketi
Priority to EP17730079.5A priority Critical patent/EP3631207A1/en
Priority to PCT/EP2017/063257 priority patent/WO2018219458A1/en
Publication of WO2018219458A1 publication Critical patent/WO2018219458A1/en

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    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F16—ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
    • F16K—VALVES; TAPS; COCKS; ACTUATING-FLOATS; DEVICES FOR VENTING OR AERATING
    • F16K31/00—Actuating devices; Operating means; Releasing devices
    • F16K31/002—Actuating devices; Operating means; Releasing devices actuated by temperature variation
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F03—MACHINES OR ENGINES FOR LIQUIDS; WIND, SPRING, OR WEIGHT MOTORS; PRODUCING MECHANICAL POWER OR A REACTIVE PROPULSIVE THRUST, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • F03G—SPRING, WEIGHT, INERTIA OR LIKE MOTORS; MECHANICAL-POWER PRODUCING DEVICES OR MECHANISMS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR OR USING ENERGY SOURCES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • F03G7/00—Mechanical-power-producing mechanisms, not otherwise provided for or using energy sources not otherwise provided for
    • F03G7/06—Mechanical-power-producing mechanisms, not otherwise provided for or using energy sources not otherwise provided for using expansion or contraction of bodies due to heating, cooling, moistening, drying or the like
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F16—ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
    • F16K—VALVES; TAPS; COCKS; ACTUATING-FLOATS; DEVICES FOR VENTING OR AERATING
    • F16K1/00—Lift valves or globe valves, i.e. cut-off apparatus with closure members having at least a component of their opening and closing motion perpendicular to the closing faces
    • F16K1/16—Lift valves or globe valves, i.e. cut-off apparatus with closure members having at least a component of their opening and closing motion perpendicular to the closing faces with pivoted closure-members
    • F16K1/18—Lift valves or globe valves, i.e. cut-off apparatus with closure members having at least a component of their opening and closing motion perpendicular to the closing faces with pivoted closure-members with pivoted discs or flaps
    • F16K1/20—Lift valves or globe valves, i.e. cut-off apparatus with closure members having at least a component of their opening and closing motion perpendicular to the closing faces with pivoted closure-members with pivoted discs or flaps with axis of rotation arranged externally of valve member
    • F16K1/2007—Lift valves or globe valves, i.e. cut-off apparatus with closure members having at least a component of their opening and closing motion perpendicular to the closing faces with pivoted closure-members with pivoted discs or flaps with axis of rotation arranged externally of valve member specially adapted operating means therefor
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F16—ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
    • F16K—VALVES; TAPS; COCKS; ACTUATING-FLOATS; DEVICES FOR VENTING OR AERATING
    • F16K1/00—Lift valves or globe valves, i.e. cut-off apparatus with closure members having at least a component of their opening and closing motion perpendicular to the closing faces
    • F16K1/16—Lift valves or globe valves, i.e. cut-off apparatus with closure members having at least a component of their opening and closing motion perpendicular to the closing faces with pivoted closure-members
    • F16K1/18—Lift valves or globe valves, i.e. cut-off apparatus with closure members having at least a component of their opening and closing motion perpendicular to the closing faces with pivoted closure-members with pivoted discs or flaps
    • F16K1/20—Lift valves or globe valves, i.e. cut-off apparatus with closure members having at least a component of their opening and closing motion perpendicular to the closing faces with pivoted closure-members with pivoted discs or flaps with axis of rotation arranged externally of valve member
    • F16K1/2021—Lift valves or globe valves, i.e. cut-off apparatus with closure members having at least a component of their opening and closing motion perpendicular to the closing faces with pivoted closure-members with pivoted discs or flaps with axis of rotation arranged externally of valve member with a plurality of valve members
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F16—ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
    • F16K—VALVES; TAPS; COCKS; ACTUATING-FLOATS; DEVICES FOR VENTING OR AERATING
    • F16K3/00—Gate valves or sliding valves, i.e. cut-off apparatus with closing members having a sliding movement along the seat for opening and closing
    • F16K3/02—Gate valves or sliding valves, i.e. cut-off apparatus with closing members having a sliding movement along the seat for opening and closing with flat sealing faces; Packings therefor
    • F16K3/0254—Gate valves or sliding valves, i.e. cut-off apparatus with closing members having a sliding movement along the seat for opening and closing with flat sealing faces; Packings therefor being operated by particular means
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F16—ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
    • F16K—VALVES; TAPS; COCKS; ACTUATING-FLOATS; DEVICES FOR VENTING OR AERATING
    • F16K3/00—Gate valves or sliding valves, i.e. cut-off apparatus with closing members having a sliding movement along the seat for opening and closing
    • F16K3/02—Gate valves or sliding valves, i.e. cut-off apparatus with closing members having a sliding movement along the seat for opening and closing with flat sealing faces; Packings therefor
    • F16K3/04—Gate valves or sliding valves, i.e. cut-off apparatus with closing members having a sliding movement along the seat for opening and closing with flat sealing faces; Packings therefor with pivoted closure members
    • F16K3/06—Gate valves or sliding valves, i.e. cut-off apparatus with closing members having a sliding movement along the seat for opening and closing with flat sealing faces; Packings therefor with pivoted closure members in the form of closure plates arranged between supply and discharge passages
    • F16K3/08—Gate valves or sliding valves, i.e. cut-off apparatus with closing members having a sliding movement along the seat for opening and closing with flat sealing faces; Packings therefor with pivoted closure members in the form of closure plates arranged between supply and discharge passages with circular plates rotatable around their centres
    • F16K3/085—Gate valves or sliding valves, i.e. cut-off apparatus with closing members having a sliding movement along the seat for opening and closing with flat sealing faces; Packings therefor with pivoted closure members in the form of closure plates arranged between supply and discharge passages with circular plates rotatable around their centres the axis of supply passage and the axis of discharge passage being coaxial and parallel to the axis of rotation of the plates
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F24—HEATING; RANGES; VENTILATING
    • F24F—AIR-CONDITIONING; AIR-HUMIDIFICATION; VENTILATION; USE OF AIR CURRENTS FOR SCREENING
    • F24F11/00—Control or safety arrangements
    • F24F11/30—Control or safety arrangements for purposes related to the operation of the system, e.g. for safety or monitoring
    • F24F11/32—Responding to malfunctions or emergencies
    • F24F11/33—Responding to malfunctions or emergencies to fire, excessive heat or smoke
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F24—HEATING; RANGES; VENTILATING
    • F24F—AIR-CONDITIONING; AIR-HUMIDIFICATION; VENTILATION; USE OF AIR CURRENTS FOR SCREENING
    • F24F13/00—Details common to, or for air-conditioning, air-humidification, ventilation or use of air currents for screening
    • F24F13/08—Air-flow control members, e.g. louvres, grilles, flaps or guide plates
    • F24F13/10—Air-flow control members, e.g. louvres, grilles, flaps or guide plates movable, e.g. dampers
    • F24F13/12—Air-flow control members, e.g. louvres, grilles, flaps or guide plates movable, e.g. dampers built up of sliding members
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F24—HEATING; RANGES; VENTILATING
    • F24F—AIR-CONDITIONING; AIR-HUMIDIFICATION; VENTILATION; USE OF AIR CURRENTS FOR SCREENING
    • F24F13/00—Details common to, or for air-conditioning, air-humidification, ventilation or use of air currents for screening
    • F24F13/08—Air-flow control members, e.g. louvres, grilles, flaps or guide plates
    • F24F13/10—Air-flow control members, e.g. louvres, grilles, flaps or guide plates movable, e.g. dampers
    • F24F13/14—Air-flow control members, e.g. louvres, grilles, flaps or guide plates movable, e.g. dampers built up of tilting members, e.g. louvre
    • F24F13/15—Air-flow control members, e.g. louvres, grilles, flaps or guide plates movable, e.g. dampers built up of tilting members, e.g. louvre with parallel simultaneously tiltable lamellae
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F24—HEATING; RANGES; VENTILATING
    • F24F—AIR-CONDITIONING; AIR-HUMIDIFICATION; VENTILATION; USE OF AIR CURRENTS FOR SCREENING
    • F24F13/00—Details common to, or for air-conditioning, air-humidification, ventilation or use of air currents for screening
    • F24F13/08—Air-flow control members, e.g. louvres, grilles, flaps or guide plates
    • F24F13/10—Air-flow control members, e.g. louvres, grilles, flaps or guide plates movable, e.g. dampers
    • F24F13/14—Air-flow control members, e.g. louvres, grilles, flaps or guide plates movable, e.g. dampers built up of tilting members, e.g. louvre
    • F24F13/1426—Air-flow control members, e.g. louvres, grilles, flaps or guide plates movable, e.g. dampers built up of tilting members, e.g. louvre characterised by actuating means
    • F24F2013/146—Air-flow control members, e.g. louvres, grilles, flaps or guide plates movable, e.g. dampers built up of tilting members, e.g. louvre characterised by actuating means with springs

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to a household appliance, in particular to a personal air cooling appliance.
  • a fluid conducting household appliance generally comprises: an aperture for the passage of a fluid such as water or air; a cover for opening/closing the aperture, wherein the cover is movable relative to the aperture; and an actuator for moving the cover relative to the aperture.
  • the actuator generally comprises a motor which is linked to the cover. During the operation, the aperture can be opened through the motor. Thereby, the fluid can flow through the aperture.
  • the aperture can be used for various different purposes depending on the type of the household appliance.
  • the aperture can be used for cooling the hot components inside the household appliance by way of taking the relatively colder air from the outside into the household appliance and by way of discharging the relatively warmer air inside the household appliance to the environment.
  • a cool air stream can be generated inside the household appliance and discharged through the aperture into the room.
  • the aperture can be used for the passage of the washing/rinsing liquid.
  • EP1951098(A1) discloses a prior art dishwasher with a venting system.
  • a problem with the prior art household appliance is that the motor linked to the cover generally produces noises during the operation, and may disturb the user. Another problem with the prior art household appliance is that the motor generally increases the operating costs. Another problem with the prior art household appliance is that the motor increase the production costs and the maintenance costs both in terms of material and labor.
  • An objective of the present invention is to provide a household appliance that solves the aforementioned problems of the prior art in a cost effective way and which enables an improved energy efficiency and an improved operability.
  • the household appliance of the present invention is provided without a motor for actuating the cover.
  • the actuator comprises a shape memory alloy which is linked to the cover and adapted to move the cover relative to the aperture depending on the change of its temperature, wherein the shape memory alloy has a two-way shape memory for opening/closing the aperture at a plurality of differently open levels.
  • a major advantageous effect of the present invention is that need for using the motor has been obviated by the shape memory alloy. Thereby the production costs and the maintenance costs can be reduced both in terms of material and labor. Thereby also the space inside the household appliance can be more efficiently utilized, and thus the position, size and shape of the heat exchanger such as the evaporator can be more flexibly designed. Thereby also the disturbing noises generated during the operation of the motor have been eliminated, and thus the household appliance can be operated more environment friendly. With the present invention the consumer satisfaction can be increased.
  • the cover is pivotably movable relative to the aperture.
  • the cover can be separated from the aperture at a plurality of different angles so as to open the aperture at a plurality of differently open levels.
  • This embodiment is particularly advantageous as the passage of the fluid, in particular of the air can be continuously adjusted in accordance with the temperature.
  • the cover is slidably movable relative to the aperture.
  • the cover is linearly slidably or rotatably slidably movable relative to the aperture.
  • the household appliance has a movable or fixed plate with one or more apertures.
  • the cover is flat, and either linearly or rotatably slidably movable relative to the plate, and has one or more associated apertures.
  • the apertures of the cover and the apertures of the plate are arranged to linearly or rotatably slide across each other respectively so as to allow selectively opening of the apertures at a plurality of differently open levels.
  • the plate and the cover may have similar sizes and similar shapes such as rectangles or disks. These embodiments are particularly advantageous as the passage of the fluid can be continuously adjusted in accordance with the temperature.
  • the apertures may have various different sizes and shapes.
  • one or more apertures are rectangular shaped, circular shaped or pie shaped. These embodiments are particularly advantageous as the passage of the fluid can be flexibly adjusted in accordance with the shape of the apertures.
  • the shape memory alloy may have various different forms.
  • the shape memory alloy is provided in form of a coil-shaped spring, a spiral-shaped spring or an L-shaped leaf spring. These embodiments are particularly advantageous as the mechanical properties of the shape memory alloy required for the actuation of the cover can be more flexibly designed.
  • the household appliance has a control unit which changes the temperature of the shape memory alloy so as to allow selectively opening of the aperture at a plurality of differently open levels.
  • This embodiment is particularly advantageous as the opening level can be actively adjusted by the control unit.
  • control unit changes the temperature of the shape memory alloy in accordance with the user selection that can be inputted by means of the user-interface.
  • This embodiment is particularly advantageous as the user can selectively adjust the opening level of the aperture through the interface.
  • control unit changes the temperature of the shape memory alloy in accordance with an algorithm.
  • This embodiment is particularly advantageous as the household appliance can be automatically operated in accordance with the algorithm.
  • control unit has an electric supply for causing an electric current to flow through the shape memory alloy so as to change its temperate through heating by the Joule effect, and/or a heat supply for conductively, convectively or radiatively transferring heat to the shape memory alloy so as to change its temperate.
  • the cover and the actuator is provided as an integral piece that is produced from the shape memory alloy.
  • the integral piece flexibly moves relative to the aperture depending on the change of its temperature.
  • the household appliance may be provided as an air conditioner, a personal air cooling appliance which is portable, a refrigerator, a dishwasher, a laundry washer or the like.
  • the aperture can be used for the passage of a fluid such as water or air.
  • Figure 1 – is a schematic perspective view of a household appliance, in particular of a personal air cooling appliance according to an embodiment of the present invention, wherein the apertures are partially opened;
  • Figure 2 – is a schematic front view of the personal air cooling appliance of Fig. 1;
  • Figure 3 – is a schematic partial front view of a household appliance, in particular of a personal air cooling appliance according to another embodiment of the present invention, wherein the apertures are partially open;
  • Figure 4 – is a schematic partial front view of the household appliance of Fig. 3, wherein the apertures are closed;
  • Figure 5 – is a schematic partial side view of the household appliance of Fig. 3, wherein the apertures are partially open;
  • Figure 6 – is a schematic partial side view of the household appliance of Fig. 3, wherein the apertures are closed;
  • Figures 7 – is a schematic partial front view of the household appliance, in particular of a personal air cooling appliance according to another embodiment of the present invention in three different operational states, wherein the rectangular shaped apertures are opened, partially opened and closed respectively from left to right;
  • Figures 8 – is a schematic front view of the household appliance, in particular of a personal air cooling appliance according to another embodiment of the present invention in three different operational states, wherein the circular shaped apertures are opened, partially opened and closed respectively from left to right;
  • Figures 9 – is a schematic front view of the household appliance, in particular of a personal air cooling appliance according to another embodiment of the present invention in three different operational states, wherein the pie shaped apertures are opened, partially opened and closed respectively from left to right;
  • Figure 10 – is a schematic partial view of various shape memory alloys used in the household appliances according to the alternative embodiments of the present invention.
  • the household appliance (1) comprises: an aperture (2) for the passage of a fluid, in particular of air; a cover (3) for opening/closing the aperture (2), wherein the cover (3) is movable relative to the aperture (2); and an actuator (4) for moving the cover (3) relative to the aperture (2) (Fig. 1 to Fig. 4).
  • the actuator (4) comprises a shape memory alloy (5) which is linked to the cover (3) and adapted to move the cover (3) relative to the aperture (2) depending on the change of its temperature, wherein the shape memory alloy (5) has a two-way shape memory for opening/closing the aperture (2) at a plurality of differently open levels (Fig. 5 to Fig. 9; and Fig. 10).
  • the household appliance (1) is provided as a personal air cooling appliance (1).
  • the personal air cooling appliance (1) comprises: a cooling unit (not shown) for generating a cool air stream, wherein the aperture (2) is adapted to discharge the cool air stream to the outside (Fig. 1 and Fig. 2).
  • the cover (3) is pivotably movable relative to the aperture (2) (Fig. 1 to Fig. 6).
  • the cover (3) and the aperture (2) are respectively separated at a plurality of different angles ( ⁇ ).
  • the cover (3) is slidably movable relative to the aperture (2) (Fig. 7 to Fig. 9).
  • the cover (3) is linearly slidably movable relative to the aperture (2) (Fig. 7 and Fig. 8).
  • the cover (3) is rotatably slidably movable relative to the aperture (2) (Fig. 9).
  • the household appliance (1) comprises: a plate (6) which has one or more apertures (2), wherein the cover (3) is flat and linearly slidably movable relative to the plate (6), wherein the cover (3) also has one or more associated apertures (2), wherein the apertures (2) of the cover (3) and the apertures (2) of the plate (6) are arranged to linearly slide across each other respectively so as to allow selectively opening of the apertures (2) at a plurality of differently open levels.
  • the plate (6) and the cover (3) are rectangular shaped (Fig. 7 and Fig. 8).
  • the household appliance (1) comprises: a plate (6) which has one or more apertures (2), wherein the cover (3) is also flat and rotatably slidably movable relative to the plate (6), wherein the cover (3) has one or more associated apertures (2), wherein the apertures (2) of the cover (3) and the apertures (2) of the plate (6) are arranged to rotatably slide across each other so as to allow selectively opening of the apertures (2) at a plurality of differently open levels.
  • the plate (6) and the cover (3) are circular shaped (Fig.9).
  • one or more apertures (2) are rectangular shaped, circular shaped or pie shaped (Fig. 7 to Fig. 9).
  • the shape memory alloy (5) is provided in form of a coil-shaped spring, a spiral-shaped spring or an L-shaped leaf spring (Fig. 10).
  • the household appliance (1) further comprises: a control unit which is adapted to change the temperature of the shape memory alloy (5) so as to allow selectively opening of the aperture (2) at a plurality of differently open levels.
  • control unit is further adapted to change the temperature of the shape memory alloy (5) in accordance with the user selection to be inputted by means of a user-interface (not shown).
  • control unit comprises: an electric supply (not shown) for causing an electric current to flow through the shape memory alloy (5) so as to change its temperate through heating by the Joule effect; and/or a heat supply (not shown) for conductively, convectively or radiatively transferring heat to the shape memory alloy (5) so as to change its temperate.
  • the cover (3) and the actuator (4) are provided as an integral piece (not shown) which is produced from the said shape memory alloy (5), wherein the integral piece is flexibly movable relative to the aperture (2) depending on the change of its temperature.
  • a major advantageous effect of the present invention is that need for using a motor has been obviated by the shape memory alloy (5) (Fig. 3 and Fig. 4). Thereby the production costs and the maintenance costs can be reduced both in terms of material and labor. Thereby also the space inside the the household appliance (1) can be more efficiently utilized, and thus the position, size and shape of the heat exchangers such as evaporators can be more flexibly designed. Thereby also the disturbing noises generated during the operation of the motor have been eliminated, and thus the household appliance (1) can be operated more environment friendly. With the present invention the consumer satisfaction can be increased. Other advantageous effects of the present invention can be taken from the above-described embodiments.

Abstract

A household appliance (1), in particular a personal air cooling appliance (1) comprising an aperture (2) for the passage of a fluid, in particular of air; a cover (3) for opening/closing the aperture (2), wherein the cover (3) is movable relative to the aperture (2); and an actuator (4) for moving the cover (3) relative to the aperture (2) wherein the actuator comprises a two-way shape memory alloy linked to the cover for opening and closing the aperture at a plurality of different opening levels.

Description

HOUSEHOLD APPLIANCE WITH AN IMPROVED ENERGY EFFICIENCY AND OPERABILITY
The present invention relates to a household appliance, in particular to a personal air cooling appliance.
Household appliances such as air conditioners or personal air cooling appliances are commonly known in the art. A fluid conducting household appliance generally comprises: an aperture for the passage of a fluid such as water or air; a cover for opening/closing the aperture, wherein the cover is movable relative to the aperture; and an actuator for moving the cover relative to the aperture. The actuator generally comprises a motor which is linked to the cover. During the operation, the aperture can be opened through the motor. Thereby, the fluid can flow through the aperture. The aperture can be used for various different purposes depending on the type of the household appliance. For instance, in an application, the aperture can be used for cooling the hot components inside the household appliance by way of taking the relatively colder air from the outside into the household appliance and by way of discharging the relatively warmer air inside the household appliance to the environment. For instance, in another application, a cool air stream can be generated inside the household appliance and discharged through the aperture into the room. For instance, in another application, the aperture can be used for the passage of the washing/rinsing liquid.
EP1951098(A1) discloses a prior art dishwasher with a venting system.
A problem with the prior art household appliance is that the motor linked to the cover generally produces noises during the operation, and may disturb the user. Another problem with the prior art household appliance is that the motor generally increases the operating costs. Another problem with the prior art household appliance is that the motor increase the production costs and the maintenance costs both in terms of material and labor.
An objective of the present invention is to provide a household appliance that solves the aforementioned problems of the prior art in a cost effective way and which enables an improved energy efficiency and an improved operability.
This objective has been achieved by the household appliance as defined in claim 1, and the personal air cooling appliance as defined in claim 15. Further achievements have been attained by the subject-matters respectively defined in the dependent claims.
The household appliance of the present invention is provided without a motor for actuating the cover. In the household appliance of the present invention the actuator comprises a shape memory alloy which is linked to the cover and adapted to move the cover relative to the aperture depending on the change of its temperature, wherein the shape memory alloy has a two-way shape memory for opening/closing the aperture at a plurality of differently open levels.
A major advantageous effect of the present invention is that need for using the motor has been obviated by the shape memory alloy. Thereby the production costs and the maintenance costs can be reduced both in terms of material and labor. Thereby also the space inside the household appliance can be more efficiently utilized, and thus the position, size and shape of the heat exchanger such as the evaporator can be more flexibly designed. Thereby also the disturbing noises generated during the operation of the motor have been eliminated, and thus the household appliance can be operated more environment friendly. With the present invention the consumer satisfaction can be increased.
In an embodiment, the cover is pivotably movable relative to the aperture. In this embodiment, the cover can be separated from the aperture at a plurality of different angles so as to open the aperture at a plurality of differently open levels. This embodiment is particularly advantageous as the passage of the fluid, in particular of the air can be continuously adjusted in accordance with the temperature.
In an alternative embodiment, the cover is slidably movable relative to the aperture. In alternative versions of this embodiment, the cover is linearly slidably or rotatably slidably movable relative to the aperture. These embodiments are particularly advantageous as the sliding movement of the cover requires relatively little space, and thus the space utilization efficiency of the household appliance can be further improved.
In alternative embodiments, the household appliance has a movable or fixed plate with one or more apertures. In these alternative embodiments, the cover is flat, and either linearly or rotatably slidably movable relative to the plate, and has one or more associated apertures. In these alternative embodiments, the apertures of the cover and the apertures of the plate are arranged to linearly or rotatably slide across each other respectively so as to allow selectively opening of the apertures at a plurality of differently open levels. In alternative embodiments, the plate and the cover may have similar sizes and similar shapes such as rectangles or disks. These embodiments are particularly advantageous as the passage of the fluid can be continuously adjusted in accordance with the temperature.
In the present invention the apertures may have various different sizes and shapes. In alternative embodiments, one or more apertures are rectangular shaped, circular shaped or pie shaped. These embodiments are particularly advantageous as the passage of the fluid can be flexibly adjusted in accordance with the shape of the apertures.
In the present invention the shape memory alloy may have various different forms. In alternative embodiments, the shape memory alloy is provided in form of a coil-shaped spring, a spiral-shaped spring or an L-shaped leaf spring. These embodiments are particularly advantageous as the mechanical properties of the shape memory alloy required for the actuation of the cover can be more flexibly designed.
In an embodiment, the household appliance has a control unit which changes the temperature of the shape memory alloy so as to allow selectively opening of the aperture at a plurality of differently open levels. This embodiment is particularly advantageous as the opening level can be actively adjusted by the control unit.
In an embodiment, the control unit changes the temperature of the shape memory alloy in accordance with the user selection that can be inputted by means of the user-interface. This embodiment is particularly advantageous as the user can selectively adjust the opening level of the aperture through the interface.
In an embodiment, the control unit changes the temperature of the shape memory alloy in accordance with an algorithm. This embodiment is particularly advantageous as the household appliance can be automatically operated in accordance with the algorithm.
In alternative embodiments, the control unit has an electric supply for causing an electric current to flow through the shape memory alloy so as to change its temperate through heating by the Joule effect, and/or a heat supply for conductively, convectively or radiatively transferring heat to the shape memory alloy so as to change its temperate. These embodiments are particularly advantageous as the shape memory alloy can be flexibly controlled in accordance with the type of the application that best suits the ambient operating conditions.
In an alternative embodiment, the cover and the actuator is provided as an integral piece that is produced from the shape memory alloy. The integral piece flexibly moves relative to the aperture depending on the change of its temperature. This embodiment is particularly advantageous as the need for a separate actuator has been obviated, and thus the productions cost can be reduced both in terms of material and labor.
In alternative embodiments, the household appliance may be provided as an air conditioner, a personal air cooling appliance which is portable, a refrigerator, a dishwasher, a laundry washer or the like. In alternative embodiments, the aperture can be used for the passage of a fluid such as water or air.
Additional features and additional advantageous effects of the household appliance according to the present invention will become more apparent with the detailed description of the embodiments with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:
Figure 1 – is a schematic perspective view of a household appliance, in particular of a personal air cooling appliance according to an embodiment of the present invention, wherein the apertures are partially opened;
Figure 2 – is a schematic front view of the personal air cooling appliance of Fig. 1;
Figure 3 – is a schematic partial front view of a household appliance, in particular of a personal air cooling appliance according to another embodiment of the present invention, wherein the apertures are partially open;
Figure 4 – is a schematic partial front view of the household appliance of Fig. 3, wherein the apertures are closed;
Figure 5 – is a schematic partial side view of the household appliance of Fig. 3, wherein the apertures are partially open;
Figure 6 – is a schematic partial side view of the household appliance of Fig. 3, wherein the apertures are closed;
Figures 7 – is a schematic partial front view of the household appliance, in particular of a personal air cooling appliance according to another embodiment of the present invention in three different operational states, wherein the rectangular shaped apertures are opened, partially opened and closed respectively from left to right;
Figures 8 – is a schematic front view of the household appliance, in particular of a personal air cooling appliance according to another embodiment of the present invention in three different operational states, wherein the circular shaped apertures are opened, partially opened and closed respectively from left to right;
Figures 9 – is a schematic front view of the household appliance, in particular of a personal air cooling appliance according to another embodiment of the present invention in three different operational states, wherein the pie shaped apertures are opened, partially opened and closed respectively from left to right;
Figure 10 – is a schematic partial view of various shape memory alloys used in the household appliances according to the alternative embodiments of the present invention.
The reference signs appearing on the drawings relate to the following technical features.
  1. Household appliance (Personal air cooling appliance)
  2. Aperture
  3. Cover
  4. Actuator
  5. Shape memory alloy
  6. Plate
θ: Angle
The household appliance (1) comprises: an aperture (2) for the passage of a fluid, in particular of air; a cover (3) for opening/closing the aperture (2), wherein the cover (3) is movable relative to the aperture (2); and an actuator (4) for moving the cover (3) relative to the aperture (2) (Fig. 1 to Fig. 4).
In the household appliance (1) of the present invention, the actuator (4) comprises a shape memory alloy (5) which is linked to the cover (3) and adapted to move the cover (3) relative to the aperture (2) depending on the change of its temperature, wherein the shape memory alloy (5) has a two-way shape memory for opening/closing the aperture (2) at a plurality of differently open levels (Fig. 5 to Fig. 9; and Fig. 10).
In an embodiment, the household appliance (1) is provided as a personal air cooling appliance (1). In this embodiment, the personal air cooling appliance (1) comprises: a cooling unit (not shown) for generating a cool air stream, wherein the aperture (2) is adapted to discharge the cool air stream to the outside (Fig. 1 and Fig. 2).
In an embodiment, the cover (3) is pivotably movable relative to the aperture (2) (Fig. 1 to Fig. 6). In this embodiment, at the plurality of differently open levels, the cover (3) and the aperture (2) are respectively separated at a plurality of different angles (θ).
In an alternative embodiment, the cover (3) is slidably movable relative to the aperture (2) (Fig. 7 to Fig. 9).
In an alternative embodiment, the cover (3) is linearly slidably movable relative to the aperture (2) (Fig. 7 and Fig. 8).
In an alternative embodiment, the cover (3) is rotatably slidably movable relative to the aperture (2) (Fig. 9).
In an alternative embodiment, the household appliance (1) comprises: a plate (6) which has one or more apertures (2), wherein the cover (3) is flat and linearly slidably movable relative to the plate (6), wherein the cover (3) also has one or more associated apertures (2), wherein the apertures (2) of the cover (3) and the apertures (2) of the plate (6) are arranged to linearly slide across each other respectively so as to allow selectively opening of the apertures (2) at a plurality of differently open levels. In these alternative embodiments, the plate (6) and the cover (3) are rectangular shaped (Fig. 7 and Fig. 8).
In another alternative embodiment, the household appliance (1) comprises: a plate (6) which has one or more apertures (2), wherein the cover (3) is also flat and rotatably slidably movable relative to the plate (6), wherein the cover (3) has one or more associated apertures (2), wherein the apertures (2) of the cover (3) and the apertures (2) of the plate (6) are arranged to rotatably slide across each other so as to allow selectively opening of the apertures (2) at a plurality of differently open levels. In these alternative embodiments, the plate (6) and the cover (3) are circular shaped (Fig.9).
In alternative embodiments, one or more apertures (2) are rectangular shaped, circular shaped or pie shaped (Fig. 7 to Fig. 9).
In alternative embodiments, the shape memory alloy (5) is provided in form of a coil-shaped spring, a spiral-shaped spring or an L-shaped leaf spring (Fig. 10).
In an embodiment, the household appliance (1) further comprises: a control unit which is adapted to change the temperature of the shape memory alloy (5) so as to allow selectively opening of the aperture (2) at a plurality of differently open levels.
In an embodiment, the control unit is further adapted to change the temperature of the shape memory alloy (5) in accordance with the user selection to be inputted by means of a user-interface (not shown).
In alternative embodiments, the control unit comprises: an electric supply (not shown) for causing an electric current to flow through the shape memory alloy (5) so as to change its temperate through heating by the Joule effect; and/or a heat supply (not shown) for conductively, convectively or radiatively transferring heat to the shape memory alloy (5) so as to change its temperate.
In an alternative embodiment, the cover (3) and the actuator (4) are provided as an integral piece (not shown) which is produced from the said shape memory alloy (5), wherein the integral piece is flexibly movable relative to the aperture (2) depending on the change of its temperature.
A major advantageous effect of the present invention is that need for using a motor has been obviated by the shape memory alloy (5) (Fig. 3 and Fig. 4). Thereby the production costs and the maintenance costs can be reduced both in terms of material and labor. Thereby also the space inside the the household appliance (1) can be more efficiently utilized, and thus the position, size and shape of the heat exchangers such as evaporators can be more flexibly designed. Thereby also the disturbing noises generated during the operation of the motor have been eliminated, and thus the household appliance (1) can be operated more environment friendly. With the present invention the consumer satisfaction can be increased. Other advantageous effects of the present invention can be taken from the above-described embodiments.

Claims (15)

  1. A household appliance (1), in particular a personal air cooling appliance (1) comprising: an aperture (2) for the passage of a fluid, in particular air; a cover (3) for opening/closing the aperture (2), wherein the cover (3) is movable relative to the aperture (2); and an actuator (4) for moving the cover (3) relative to the aperture (2), characterized in that the actuator (4) comprises a shape memory alloy (5) which is linked to the cover (3) and adapted to move the cover (3) relative to the aperture (2) depending on the change of its temperature, wherein the shape memory alloy (5) has a two-way shape memory for opening/closing the aperture (2) at a plurality of differently open levels.
  2. The household appliance (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that the cover (3) is pivotably movable relative to the aperture (2), wherein at the plurality of differently open levels, the cover (3) and the aperture (2) are respectively separated at a plurality of different angles (θ).
  3. The household appliance (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that the cover (3) is slidably movable relative to the aperture (2).
  4. The household appliance (1) according to claim 3, characterized in that the cover (3) is linearly slidably movable relative to the aperture (2).
  5. The household appliance (1) according to claim 3, characterized in that the cover (3) is rotatably slidably movable relative to the aperture (2).
  6. The household appliance (1) according to claim 4, characterized by further comprising: a plate (6) which has one or more apertures (2), wherein the cover (3) is flat and linearly slidably movable relative to the plate (6), wherein the cover (3) also has one or more associated apertures (2), wherein the apertures (2) of the cover (3) and the apertures (2) of the plate (6) are arranged to linearly slide across each other respectively so as to allow selectively opening of the apertures (2) at a plurality of differently open levels.
  7. The household appliance (1) according to claim 5, characterized by further comprising: a plate (6) which has one or more apertures (2), wherein the cover (3) is also flat and rotatably slidably movable relative to the plate (6), wherein the cover (3) has one or more associated apertures (2), wherein the apertures (2) of the cover (3) and the apertures (2) of the plate (6) are arranged to rotatably slide across each other so as to allow selectively opening of the apertures (2) at a plurality of differently open levels.
  8. The household appliance (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that one or more apertures (2) are rectangular shaped, circular shaped or pie shaped.
  9. The household appliance (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that the shape memory alloy (5) is provided in form of a coil-shaped spring, a spiral-shaped spring or an L-shaped leaf spring.
  10. The household appliance (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 9, characterized by further comprising: a control unit which is adapted to change the temperature of the shape memory alloy (5) so as to allow selectively opening of the aperture (2) at a plurality of differently open levels.
  11. The household appliance (1) according to claim 10, characterized in that the control unit is further adapted to change the temperature of the shape memory alloy (5) in accordance with the user selection to be input by means of a user-interface.
  12. The household appliance (1) according to claim 10 or 11, characterized in that the control unit comprises: an electric supply for causing an electric current to flow through the shape memory alloy (5) so as to change its temperate through heating by the Joule effect.
  13. The household appliance (1) according to claim 10 or 11, characterized in that the control unit comprises: a heat supply for conductively, convectively or radiatively transferring heat to the shape memory alloy (5) so as to change its temperate.
  14. The household appliance (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 13, characterized in that the cover (3) and the actuator (4) are provided as an integral piece which comprises the said shape memory alloy (5), wherein the integral piece is flexibly movable relative to the aperture (2) depending on the change of its temperature.
  15. The household appliance (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 14, characterized by further comprising: a cooling unit for generating a cool air stream, wherein the aperture (2) is adapted to discharge the cool air stream to the outside.
PCT/EP2017/063257 2017-06-01 2017-06-01 Household appliance with an improved energy efficiency and operability WO2018219458A1 (en)

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EP17730079.5A EP3631207A1 (en) 2017-06-01 2017-06-01 Household appliance with an improved energy efficiency and operability
PCT/EP2017/063257 WO2018219458A1 (en) 2017-06-01 2017-06-01 Household appliance with an improved energy efficiency and operability

Applications Claiming Priority (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
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Cited By (1)

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WO2020126273A1 (en) * 2018-12-20 2020-06-25 Danfoss A/S Thermal actuator for a valve, valve with such an actuator and use of a thermal actuator in a valve

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US20050000574A1 (en) * 2003-04-28 2005-01-06 Macgregor Roderick Flow control assemblies having integrally formed shape memory alloy actuators
US20050011563A1 (en) * 2003-07-17 2005-01-20 C.R.F. Societa Consortile Per Azioni Device for controlling the flow of a fluid in one or more conduits in an electrical appliance, particularly in a dishwasher machine
EP1951098A1 (en) 2005-05-17 2008-08-06 Fisher & Paykel Appliances Limited Venting system for dishwasher
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EP2878814A1 (en) * 2013-11-29 2015-06-03 Siemens Schweiz AG Actuator

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WO2020126273A1 (en) * 2018-12-20 2020-06-25 Danfoss A/S Thermal actuator for a valve, valve with such an actuator and use of a thermal actuator in a valve

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