WO2023186285A1 - Machine de traitement du linge avec pompe à chaleur - Google Patents

Machine de traitement du linge avec pompe à chaleur Download PDF

Info

Publication number
WO2023186285A1
WO2023186285A1 PCT/EP2022/058374 EP2022058374W WO2023186285A1 WO 2023186285 A1 WO2023186285 A1 WO 2023186285A1 EP 2022058374 W EP2022058374 W EP 2022058374W WO 2023186285 A1 WO2023186285 A1 WO 2023186285A1
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
collection tray
evaporator
evaporator tank
laundry treatment
tray
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/EP2022/058374
Other languages
English (en)
Inventor
Maurizio Del Pos
Angelo LE PERA
Original Assignee
Electrolux Appliances Aktiebolag
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 Electrolux Appliances Aktiebolag filed Critical Electrolux Appliances Aktiebolag
Priority to PCT/EP2022/058374 priority Critical patent/WO2023186285A1/fr
Publication of WO2023186285A1 publication Critical patent/WO2023186285A1/fr

Links

Classifications

    • D—TEXTILES; PAPER
    • D06—TREATMENT OF TEXTILES OR THE LIKE; LAUNDERING; FLEXIBLE MATERIALS NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • D06F—LAUNDERING, DRYING, IRONING, PRESSING OR FOLDING TEXTILE ARTICLES
    • D06F58/00—Domestic laundry dryers
    • D06F58/20—General details of domestic laundry dryers 
    • D06F58/206—Heat pump arrangements
    • D—TEXTILES; PAPER
    • D06—TREATMENT OF TEXTILES OR THE LIKE; LAUNDERING; FLEXIBLE MATERIALS NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • D06F—LAUNDERING, DRYING, IRONING, PRESSING OR FOLDING TEXTILE ARTICLES
    • D06F23/00—Washing machines with receptacles, e.g. perforated, having a rotary movement, e.g. oscillatory movement, the receptacle serving both for washing and for centrifugally separating water from the laundry 
    • D06F23/02—Washing machines with receptacles, e.g. perforated, having a rotary movement, e.g. oscillatory movement, the receptacle serving both for washing and for centrifugally separating water from the laundry  and rotating or oscillating about a horizontal axis
    • D—TEXTILES; PAPER
    • D06—TREATMENT OF TEXTILES OR THE LIKE; LAUNDERING; FLEXIBLE MATERIALS NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • D06F—LAUNDERING, DRYING, IRONING, PRESSING OR FOLDING TEXTILE ARTICLES
    • D06F25/00—Washing machines with receptacles, e.g. perforated, having a rotary movement, e.g. oscillatory movement, the receptacle serving both for washing and for centrifugally separating water from the laundry and having further drying means, e.g. using hot air 
    • D—TEXTILES; PAPER
    • D06—TREATMENT OF TEXTILES OR THE LIKE; LAUNDERING; FLEXIBLE MATERIALS NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • D06F—LAUNDERING, DRYING, IRONING, PRESSING OR FOLDING TEXTILE ARTICLES
    • D06F39/00—Details of washing machines not specific to a single type of machines covered by groups D06F9/00 - D06F27/00 
    • D06F39/08—Liquid supply or discharge arrangements
    • D06F39/083—Liquid discharge or recirculation arrangements
    • D—TEXTILES; PAPER
    • D06—TREATMENT OF TEXTILES OR THE LIKE; LAUNDERING; FLEXIBLE MATERIALS NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • D06F—LAUNDERING, DRYING, IRONING, PRESSING OR FOLDING TEXTILE ARTICLES
    • D06F39/00—Details of washing machines not specific to a single type of machines covered by groups D06F9/00 - D06F27/00 
    • D06F39/12—Casings; Tubs

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to a laundry treatment machine, in particular to a washing machine for washing laundry or a washer dryer for washing and drying laundry.
  • EP 2 978 360 Bl suggests a washing machine with an evaporator arranged within an evaporator tank, wherein the evaporator tank is arranged in the basement of the washing machine and is surrounded by an auxiliary tank.
  • a laundry treatment machine in particular a washing machine or a washer dryer, is provided.
  • the laundry treatment machine comprises: a cabinet housing a tub and a drum rotatably arranged in the tub for washing laundry therein, a heat pump having a compressor, an evaporator and a condenser, the condenser being adapted to heat washing liquid, an evaporator tank housing the evaporator or at least a portion of the evaporator, wherein the evaporator tank is a tank for storing a heat exchanging medium, wherein the evaporator tank is arranged in an upper region of the cabinet, and a collection tray arranged below the evaporator tank and being adapted to collect condensate formed on and dripped down from the evaporator tank, wherein an air gap is formed between the outer side of the evaporator tank and the inner side of the collection tray.
  • the air gap (intermediate space) between the outer surface of the evaporator tank and the inner side of the collection tray is not provided for filling it with water. Instead the collected condensate is drained out of the air space when flown to a drain outlet of the collection tray. Besides the collection of condensate the collection tray is not configured to be filled with liquid to fill the air space between evaporator tank and collection tray.
  • the evaporator tank and/or the collection tray is external to the tub, in particular the evaporator tank and/or the collection tray is arranged above the tub and/or extends below the top module, more preferably within the top module. In particular the evaporator tank is arranged below and adjacent to the working plate or top wall of the cabinet.
  • the laundry treatment machine further comprises a top module, wherein when the top module is mounted at the laundry treatment machine it is forming part of the cabinet as a top. More preferably the top module comprises the evaporator tank and the evaporator.
  • the 'Module comprises' means that the respective comprised components form part of the top module and are preferably mounted to the top module.
  • the top module may comprise a frame structure (tray element).
  • a top wall of the washing machine is preferably mounted on top of the tray element.
  • the top module has on its upper side a working top which for example is the top wall in the shape of a plate.
  • the components of the top module may be pre-assembled such that the top module can be assembled as a whole to the upper side of the laundry treatment machine.
  • the top module comprises a frame structure for supporting components of the laundry treatment machine mounted to the top module, wherein the evaporator tank is arranged at the frame structure of the top module, wherein preferably at least a portion of the evaporator tank or the evaporator tank is integrated in the frame structure of the top module, and/or wherein the collection tray is arranged at the frame structure of the top module. Preferably at least a portion of the collection tray or the collection tray is integrated in the frame structure of the top module.
  • both or one of the evaporator tank and the collection tray may be mounted at the frame structure (i.e. evaporator tank and/or collection tray may form a separate element which is mounted at/is mountable to the frame structure, e.g. by screwing) or that the evaporator tank and/or the collection tray or at least a portion of the evaporator tank and/or the collection tray may be formed as a single/unitary element with the frame structure.
  • the evaporator tank and/or collection tray may be formed in a single piece or may comprise several elements which are assembled. E.g. the bottom part and the side walls of the evaporator tank and/or collection tray are separate elements which are assembled.
  • evaporator tank and/or the collection tray are formed as a single/unitary element with the frame structure of the top module e.g. in a single piece construction.
  • the ceiling part/top wall of the evaporator tank may be a separate element such as a cover, in particular a removable or non removable evaporator tank cover, or may be integrated in the tray element (i.e. formed in a single piece construction with the tray element) for sealing the tank.
  • the elements are monolithically formed elements produced for example by injection (plastic) molding or by deep drawing of a metal/plastic sheet.
  • the evaporator tank together with the evaporator and/or the collection and/or the condenser tray are arranged at the machine cabinet or top of the laundry treatment machine or cabinet supporting frame or at the tray element in a pivotable manner.
  • a hinge may be provided such that the evaporator tank and/or the collection tray and/or the condenser can be pivoted at one side (e.g. at the lower end or at a lateral side of the evaporator tank and/or condenser unit) so that for mounting and/or maintenance purposes (change of the drum driving belt) the evaporator tank and/or the collection tray and/or the condenser can be pivoted to the top e.g. after releasing some mounting and/or snap-fit elements supporting the tank and/or the collection tray and/or the condenser at the machine top or cabinet supporting frame or at the tray element.
  • the condenser and/or evaporator tank and/or collection tray are provided as a ready-to-be mounted module mounted at the top or top region of the machine cabinet.
  • the evaporator tank is arranged at a or the top module of the laundry treatment machine (i.e. the tank may be a separate element mounted to the top module or may be formed as a single/unitary element with the top module) and the collection tray is mounted to the top module or the evaporator tank from below, or the collection tray is arranged at a or the top module of the laundry treatment machine (i.e. the collection tray may be a separate element mounted to the top module or may be formed as a single/unitary element with the top module) and the evaporator tank is mounted from above on the top module or on the collection tray.
  • connection between the collection tray and the top module/evaporator tank may be obtained by screwing, gluing or welding.
  • the collection tray, the top module or the evaporator tank and the evaporator tank cover may comprise several holes aligned with each other so that one pin per hole is insertable through all components.
  • a screw is insertable through all components and may be secured at the end with a securing element, e.g. a nut when screws are used.
  • the collection tray and/or the top module comprises at least two connection elements, wherein, when the collection tray is mounted to the top module, each of the connection elements interacts with a respective opposite connection point of the collection tray and/or the top module.
  • connection elements e.g. a hook
  • connection points e.g. a recess
  • connection element is a clip and/or a locking element for locking in the connection point.
  • connection point is a recess and the connection element is formed such that it is insertable into the recess.
  • connection element may protrude downwards from the top module or evaporator tank or when arranged at the collection tray, may protrude upwards from the collection tray.
  • the connection element may comprise an end portion with an enlarged horizontal cross section compared to the rest of the connection element.
  • Preferably the connection element is formed in the shape of a hook.
  • the recess may comprise a first portion and a second portion, wherein the connection element is only insertable through the second portion (i.e. the second portion is designed larger than the enlarged horizontal cross section of the connection element and the first portion is designed smaller than the enlarged horizontal cross section of the connection element).
  • the enlarged horizontal cross section of the connection elements may be inserted through the respective second portions of the recesses and may then be moved by a horizontal movement of the collection tray or the top module/evaporator tank or an opposite horizontal movement of the collection tray and the top module (or the evaporator tank) to each other such that the connection elements are moved in the direction of the respective first portions of the recesses and are thereby secured.
  • the collection tray and the top module/evaporator tank may be securely connected to each other, as the enlarged horizontal cross section of the connection elements (e.g. hooks) do not fit through the first portions of the recesses.
  • the collection tray is formed to receive at least the bottom area of the evaporator tank, wherein preferably the collection tray is formed to receive the bottom area and the side walls or at least a portion of the side walls of the evaporator tank.
  • said air gap is formed between the outer bottom surface of the evaporator tank and the inner bottom surface of the collection tray, and where applicable also between the whole or partial outer surface of the side walls of the evaporator tank and the whole or partial inner surface of the collection tray.
  • the air gap is formed where the inner surface of the collection tray faces the outer surface of the bottom and the side walls of the evaporator tank.
  • the inner surface of the collection tray is formed parallel or substantially parallel (with the air gap between) to the outer bottom surface of the evaporator tank and where applicable to the outer surface of at least one side wall of the evaporator tank.
  • the collection tray may enclose the evaporator tank, wherein in particular 'encloses' means that the collection tray (i.e. the inner surface of the collection tray) encloses the outer surface of the evaporator tank from the outside like a tank or shell, i.e. all or substantially all condensate formed on and dripped down from the outer surface of the evaporator tank falls into (is collected by) the collection tray.
  • the bottom surface of the collection tray is formed slanted.
  • the slanted bottom surface of the collection tray is formed such that the condensate arriving on the inner bottom surface of the collection tray is guided towards a predefined condensate collection area, collection line or collection point of the bottom surface of the collection tray.
  • the evaporator tank is formed slanted at the bottom side such that a constant or a nearly constant gap between the evaporator tank and the tray is maintained.
  • a constant or a nearly constant gap is obtained by minimizing the volume of the collection tray by adapting the shape of the collection tray to the shape of the evaporator tank so that the space occupied by the collection tray within the laundry treatment machine is reduced.
  • the evaporator tank and the collection tray have the same outer shape, wherein in an assembled state, the evaporator tank is positioned centrally within the collection tray when looking at the laundry treatment machine from a top view (i.e. the collection tray and the evaporator tank are positioned such that a constant or nearly constant air gap is maintained between the entire or substantially entire inner surface of the collection tray and the outer surface of the evaporator tank.
  • the collection tray comprises a drain outlet to drain the condensate collected within the collection tray, wherein in particular the drain outlet is positioned at the lowest level of the bottom surface of the collection tray. More particular the drain outlet is positioned at the lowest line or point of the or a slanted bottom surface of the collection tray.
  • a draining pipe fluidly connects the drain outlet with the interior of the tub or with a sump of the tub or another fluid line fluidly connected to the sump, wherein in particular the drain outlet is positioned at a vertical height above the lower region of the tub and/or above the sump of the tub.
  • 'Vertical' relationships refer to the operational position or alignment of the laundry treatment machine.
  • the collection tray may comprise more than one outlet, wherein each outlet may comprise a separate draining pipe connected to the tub or the sump. Alternatively, the first pipe end is split according to the number of outlets arranged at the collection tray. From the tub or the sump, the condensate is preferably drained out of the washing machine by a drain pump. A filter may be arranged upstream of the drain pump. Alternatively, the outlet of the collection tray is directly connected to the filter or the drain pump for draining the condensate formed on and dripping down from the outer surface of the evaporator tank.
  • the condensate collected in the tray is guided by or is guided exclusively by gravity from the drain outlet to e.g. the tub or sump and/or preferably, the drain outlet and the draining pipe are permanently open such as to guide the condensate collected by the collection tray immediately out of the collection tray through the draining pipe.
  • No active or passive component e.g. a flap
  • the side wall and/or the bottom wall of the collection tray and/or the side and bottom wall of the evaporator tank is or comprises a thermally insulating material reducing heat transfer between the inner and outer surfaces of the collection tray and/or the inner and outer surfaces of the evaporator tank.
  • Thermally (heat) insulating material is for example foamed plastic or plastic coated with a heat insulating layer.
  • the heat insulation reduces the formation of condensate on the outer surface of the evaporator tank.
  • the heat insulating material avoids heat dispersion. In case the compressor is mounted on the top, such material may also dampen vibrations.
  • the evaporator tank and/or the collection tray comprises ribs and/or seats arranged at the outer or inner surface for receiving heat insulating material.
  • the ribs and/or seats are evenly distributed at the outer and/or inner surface of the evaporator tank and/or collection tray.
  • the ribs may increase the stability of the evaporator tank and/or collection tray, the ribs may form spaces for receiving heat insulating material by intersection of at least three ribs, preferably by four ribs forming rectangles.
  • the upper rim of the collection tray is completely sealed or at least partially sealed to the outer side wall of the evaporator tank.
  • Complete or partial sealing prevents or at least restricts an exchange of the air in the air gap between the evaporator tank and the collection tray. Thereby, the amount of humidity that may condense and freeze at the outer wall of the evaporator tank is restricted.
  • the collection tray is not completely 'enclosing' the evaporator tank.
  • At least a side wall of the collection tray is in thermal heat exchange with at least a portion of the condenser.
  • the collection tray may be kept at a temperature preventing the formation of condensate at the outer surface of the collection tray.
  • the temperature of the collection tray element remains above the temperature at which condensate forms at the outer surface of the collection tray or remains high enough to at least reduce the formation of condensate at the outer surface of the collection tray. This prevents or at least reduces condensate from falling into the interior of the machine, in particular into areas with components such as electronic components and may thus prevent damage to these components.
  • the thermal heat exchange is obtained by heat transfer of the waste heat of the condenser to the collection tray, and/or by direct contact between at least a side wall of the collection tray and the condenser.
  • 'Direct contact' means that at least a portion of the collection tray is in contact with the condenser.
  • the condenser is a tube-in-tube condenser.
  • the refrigerant (or the washing liquid) is flowing in the larger/outer diameter tube around the smaller/inner diameter tube and in the smaller diameter tube the washing liquid (or the refrigerant) is flowing.
  • the direct contact (thermal heat exchange contact) between the collection tray and the condenser is obtained by a physical contact between both, in particular by a contact element protruding from the collection tray to the condenser or vice versa (i.e. the contact element forming a connecting between the collection tray and the condenser).
  • the contact element may be arranged at the collection tray and/or the condenser and may protrude from the collection tray to the condenser or vice versa such that heat (i.e. heat at the outer surface of the condenser due to warm refrigerant flowing through the inner or outer tube of the condenser) is transferable from the condenser to the collection tray.
  • the contact element may be a separate element mountable to the condenser and/or the collection tray e.g. by screwing or by a snap-in connection.
  • the contact element is mounted at the collection tray by e.g. gluing or welding, or the contact element may be formed in a single piece construction with the collection tray.
  • the contact element may protrude laterally at the top of the collection tray, in particular at an outer edge at the top of the collection tray (i.e. the contact element extends away from the collection tray).
  • the collection tray may comprise 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 or more contact elements which are preferably arranged symmetrically at the collection tray. By providing more contact elements, the heat transfer may be increased. By evenly distributing several contact elements, uniform heating of the entire or substantially entire collection tray may be achieved. This prevents condensate forming in sections on the outer surface of the collection tray (i.e. sections which are not as well heated as other sections).
  • the collection tray in particular the contact element, may be in heat exchange contact with an insulation layer surrounding an outer tube of the condenser or with the outer tube of the condenser (i.e. insulation layer is removed at this region of the condenser), wherein in particular refrigerant (or washing liquid) is flowing through the outer tube of the condenser.
  • the end portion of the contact element (i.e. portion facing the condenser) is preferably formed with the same radius as the condenser, in particular with the radius of the insulation layer or the outer tube, for receiving the condenser. This provides a large contact surface for heat transfer between the collection tray and the condenser.
  • the end portion of the collection tray being in contact with the condenser is designed such that the end portion is mountable at the condenser by a snap-in connection.
  • the thermal heat exchange contact may keep the temperature of the collection tray at a sufficiently high temperature for avoiding condensate formation on the outer surface of the collection tray.
  • Fig. 1 a perspective outer appearance of a washing machine with a top module
  • Fig. 2 a perspective view of the washing machine of Fig. 1 without the cabinet except the bottom wall,
  • FIG. 3 an exploded view of the washing machine of Fig. 2,
  • Fig. 4 an exploded view of the tray element and the condensate collection arrangement
  • Fig. 5 an exploded view of the tray element of Fig. 4,
  • Fig. 6 a perspective sectional view of the tray element of Fig. 4 with the collection tray in a non-engaged state and without the evaporator tank cover and the evaporator,
  • FIG. 6 A a detailed perspective view of region A of Fig. 6,
  • Fig. 6B a detailed perspective view of the tray element of Fig. 6 with the collection tray in an engaged state
  • FIG. 7 another perspective sectional view of Fig. 6 with the collection tray in the non-engaged state
  • Fig. 7 A a detailed perspective view of region B of Fig. 7,
  • Fig. 7B a detailed perspective view of the tray element of Fig. 7 with the collection tray in an engaged state
  • Fig. 8 A a perspective view of the tray element of Fig. 6 from below with the condenser and the collection tray in an assembled state
  • Fig. 8B a vertical sectional view of the tray element along the intersection line C-C of Fig. 8A
  • Fig. 9 A a perspective view of the tray element of Fig. 8 A from below with a thermal contact between the condenser and collection tray,
  • Fig. 9B a vertical sectional view of the tray element along the intersection line D-D of Fig. 9A,
  • Fig. 10A a perspective view of the tray element of Fig. 9 A from below with another design of the thermal contact between condenser and collection tray, and
  • Fig. 10B a vertical sectional view of the tray element along the intersection line E-E of Fig. 10A.
  • Fig. 1 is a perspective outer appearance of an exemplary washing machine 2 with a top module 12.
  • the washing machine 2 has a cabinet 4 comprising two side walls 10, a front wall 8, a bottom wall (plate or shell) 34 (see: Fig. 2), a rear wall 6 and a top wall 12a.
  • the top module 12 may comprise a frame structure, in particular a tray element 12b.
  • the top wall 12a may be mounted on top of the top module 12 and is preferably forming a work top.
  • a loading opening 22 which is closed by a door 24 is provided for loading laundry into the washing machine 2.
  • the upper region of the machine front face may comprise a detergent drawer 14 with a handle 16 which is preferably arranged at the left side of the upper region.
  • the detergent drawer 14 is used for storing and in particular for providing washing agents (e.g. detergent, softener, conditioner, auto dosing or other treatment agents) during washing cycles.
  • the washing machine 2 further has a control panel 20 preferably arranged at the middle and/or right side of the upper region of the machine front face.
  • the control panel 20 preferably comprises a display for displaying information about the washing program (e.g. energy consumption, duration of the washing cycle and the like) and an input device 18.
  • the input device is a control knob 18 provided for selecting between different washing programs.
  • the knob 18 is preferably arranged between the control panel 20 and the detergent drawer 14.
  • a service cover 28 may be provided at the front wall 8, e.g. on the right side of the lower region of the front wall 8, in particular in front of a filter 32 (see Fig. 2). This may allow the filter 32 to be accessed for removing fluff accumulated during washing and/or for performing service operations.
  • the washing machine 2 shown in Figs. 1 to 3 is a front-loading machine having preferably a horizontal drum rotation axis, but in alternative embodiments the drum may be inclined relative to the horizontal and vertical directions.
  • the refrigerant flow direction 78 and the washing liquid flow direction 80 are indicated by arrows in Fig. 3. Therefore, a dashed arrow defines the washing liquid flow direction 80 and a filled arrow the refrigerant flow direction 78.
  • Fig. 2 is a perspective view of the washing machine of Fig. 1 without the cabinet except the bottom wall and Fig. 3 is an exploded view of the washing machine of Fig. 2.
  • a tub 36 and a drum 38 rotatably arranged in the tub 36 and in which laundry is received, are arranged inside the cabinet 4 (not shown, compare Fig. 1).
  • the tub 36 may be suspended by spring dampers 31 and/or a balance weight 30 for stabilizing the tub 36 and the drum 38.
  • a bellow (gasket) 40 may be mounted to the tub 36 or to the tub 36 and to the front wall 8 (not shown).
  • the bellow may build a connection between the loading opening of the drum 38 and the loading opening formed in the front wall of the washing machine 2.
  • a detergent drawer housing 14a for receiving the drawer 14 may be arranged in the upper region of the washing machine 2.
  • the detergent drawer housing 14a is preferably arranged on the left side of the upper region of the washing machine 2 and/or below the top module 12.
  • the detergent drawer 14 is inserted into the detergent drawer housing 14a.
  • the structure of the top module 12, which is mounted on top of the cabinet 4 corresponds to the structure of the top module 12 described with respect to the following figures.
  • the top module 12 may be mounted on the cabinet 4 by fastener elements, e.g. by screws or snap-in elements.
  • the top module 12 comprises components of a heat pump.
  • the heat pump comprises a compressor 46, a condenser 68, an expansion device 48 (capillary or expansion valve) and an evaporator 92.
  • the compressor 46 is arranged at the bottom wall 34, preferably at the front left comer, of the washing machine 2.
  • the compressor 36 is preferably mounted on the bottom 34 by damping elements (vibration dampers) 47 for damping vibrations during operation and/or transportation of the washing machine.
  • the condenser 68, the expansion valve 48 and the evaporator 92 are preferably arranged at the top module of the washing machine 2.
  • the top module 12 may further comprise a tray element 12b which is mounted on the top of the washing machine 2, and which can be mechanically connected to the two side walls 10, the front wall 8 and the rear wall 6 of the washing machine 2.
  • the tray element 12b preferably has lateral side walls along the periphery of the tray element and/or downward from an upper plane/plate of the tray element.
  • the tray element 12b may comprise an evaporator tank 90 for receiving a heat exchanging medium (e.g. water) and an evaporator 92.
  • a heat exchanging medium e.g. water
  • the evaporator tank 90 and the tray element 12b are formed in a single piece, for example by injection molding of plastic or by deep drawing of a metal sheet.
  • the evaporator tank 90 is formed as a separate element which is mounted at the top module 12, in particular at the tray element 12b.
  • the evaporator tank 90 is preferably covered by an evaporator tank cover 26.
  • a gasket is arranged between the evaporator tank cover 26 and the evaporator tank 90.
  • the evaporator tank cover 26 may be mounted detachable e.g. by screws or non-detachable e.g. by welding or gluing at the top of the evaporator tank 90.
  • the evaporator tank cover 26 may comprise seats and/or ribs at the outer side for receiving
  • the tray element 12a is adapted to contain a liquid (as shown here in the evaporator tank 90), in particular a heat exchanging medium, and to support components such as the evaporator 92 and/or the condenser 68.
  • the compressor 46 is arranged at the top module of the washing machine, and in particular the tray element 12b is also adapted to support the compressor 46.
  • the compressor 46 is mounted in the upper region instead of the bottom region and the tray element 12b may further comprise an opening for receiving the compressor 36.
  • the tray element 12b is mechanically connected to or supports parts of the washing machine cabinet 4, in particular the side walls 10, the front wall 8 and the rear wall 6, as a part of the frame structure.
  • the washing liquid supplied to the tub 36 of the washing machine 2 is further used in a washing liquid circulation unit 52 used for saving water/energy.
  • the washing liquid is guided through a first, second, third and fourth water circulation section 52a-d.
  • the first water circulation section 52a extends between a tub outlet 60 (e.g.
  • the circulation pump 56 is preferably arranged in the bottom region of the washing machine 2, e.g. in the left rear comer at the bottom of the washing machine 2.
  • the inner volume of the washing machine may be used more efficient as when it is mounted at the front, namely more space is available at the front region (space at the rear of the bottom of the washing machine is otherwise unused). This may open up new possibilities for the arrangement of components at the front and/or service may be carried out more easily due to the increased space at the front. Further, this positioning of the circulation pump 56 and the condenser inlet 70 may result in shorter water circulation sections 52a, 52b (see Fig. 3).
  • water circulation section 52a between the filter 32 and the circulation pump 56 is guided from the right front corner to the left rear comer of the bottom of the washing machine (i.e. shortest distance).
  • water circulation section 52b is preferably guided from the outlet of the circulation pump 56b vertically or substantially vertically (preferably vertically and parallel to the side walls of the washing machine) in the direction of the condenser inlet 70.
  • the circulation pump 56 is used to drain washing liquid (during a washing phase) or water (during a rinsing phase) from the tub outlet 60 and recirculate the liquid to the upper part of the tub 36 where the liquid is reintroduced into the tub 36 by the water inlet 54.
  • the water inlet 54 into the tub may be a nozzle preferably arranged at the loading opening 22, bellow 40 or at the tub 36 from where the washing liquid flows into the tub 36.
  • at least a portion of the second water circulation section 52b may extend along a side wall or a corner of the washing machine 2, e.g. at the left side of the washing machine 2 parallel to the side wall 10 (not shown).
  • the washing liquid is circulated in the washing liquid circulation unit 52 through the water circulation sections 52a-d during a washing cycle and is heated by the heated refrigerant during passing the condenser 68.
  • a drum drive arrangement may comprise a motor for driving the drum 38.
  • the motor may be arranged at the rotation axis of the drum 38, preferably on the backside of the tub 36 (not shown) or may be arranged under the rear region of the tub 36 when seen the washing machine from a front view.
  • a torque transmission element e.g. a belt connecting the motor and the drum 38 for driving the drum 38 may be provided.
  • the drum drive arrangement is applicable for all embodiments of washing machines disclosed herein.
  • the washing machine 2 may comprise a drain pump 58 connected to the tub outlet 60, e.g. via the sump.
  • the drain pump is connected via the drain manifold which is arranged at the lower part of the sump and may be connected to a water drain 58a (see Fig. 2) which is used for draining the washing liquid at the end of a washing cycle out of the washing machine 2.
  • 'washing liquid' comprises water with resolved treatment agent, water used e.g. for rinsing and other liquids used during a washing and/or drying cycle.
  • the drain pump 58 is preferably arranged in the bottom region of the washing machine, e.g. in the lower right corner at the front of the washing machine 2.
  • the washing machine 2 may comprise a filter 32 preferably for removing the fluff which accumulates during washing and/or for performing service operations.
  • the filter/service opening 68 is preferably arranged in the lower right comer at the front of the washing machine 2.
  • the washing machine 2 may have a mixing pump 62 which may be connected to the tub outlet 60, in particular to the drain manifold which is arranged at the lower part of the sump.
  • the mixing pump 62 drains water and detergent from the bottom of the tub 36 (e.g. the sump of the tub 36) at the beginning of a washing cycle after detergent has been introduced into the tub 36 and re-sends the water and detergent to the tub 36, e.g. to the sump of the tub or in particular to the tub 36 below a water heater (not shown), by a return line 64.
  • a water heater not shown
  • the mixing pump 62 is preferably arranged in the bottom region of the washing machine 2, e.g. in the lower right comer and/or at the front of the washing machine 2.
  • the drain pump 58 and the mixing pump 62 are integrated in a pump group.
  • a filter 62 is provided upstream of the mixing and drain circuit.
  • a water supply unit (not shown) connected to the detergent drawer housing 14a may provide fresh water from outside of the washing machine 2, i.e. water from the mains/net, to flush the detergent from the detergent drawer 14 through the tub water supply 100 into the tub 36.
  • the refrigerant circulation circuit 50 comprises a first, second, third, fourth, fifth and sixth refrigerant circuit section 50a-f.
  • a first refrigerant circuit section 50a extends between the refrigerant condenser outlet 76 and the evaporator inlet 94, a second refrigerant circuit section 50b between the evaporator outlet 96 and a first inlet 66a of a switching element (switching valve) 66, a third refrigerant circuit section 50c between the a first outlet 67a of the switching valve 66 and a compressor inlet 46a, a fourth refrigerant circuit section 50d between a compressor outlet 46b and a second inlet 66b of the switching valve 66, a fifth refrigerant circuit section 50e between a second outlet 67b of the switching valve 66 and the refrigerant condenser inlet 74, and a sixth
  • the refrigerant enters the evaporator 92 in the evaporator tank 90 through the inlet 94 and exits the tank 90 through the outlet 96 (see Fig. 5).
  • the inlet and outlet 94, 96 may be arranged at a side wall of the evaporator tank 90, in particular at a rear side wall of the tank 90 when seen the washing machine 2 from a front view.
  • the inlet 94 and outlet 96 are arranged at an upper region of the tank 90.
  • the refrigerant After entering the tank 90, the refrigerant is guided to a lower region of the evaporator tank 90, flows through a second portion of the evaporator 92 arranged in the lower region and then through a first portion of the evaporator 92 arranged in the upper region of the tank 90 and exits the evaporator tank 90 from the first portion in the upper region of the evaporator tank 90 through the outlet 96.
  • the switching valve 66 as shown in Fig. 3 and as described above may be arranged at the top of the washing machine 2.
  • the switching valve 78 is arranged within the tray element 6, in particular on the left side of the tray element 12b when seen from a front view.
  • the switching valve 66 is positioned horizontally, in particular parallel to the side wall of the washing machine 2.
  • the switching valve 66 may be a valve that only guides the refrigerant from the first inlet 66a to the first outlet 67a and from the second inlet 66b to the second outlet 67b.
  • the switching valve 66 is configured to change the refrigerant flow direction within the refrigerant circulation circuit 50.
  • the switching valve 66 described above is optional.
  • the refrigerant of the second refrigerant circuit section 50b may be guided from the evaporator outlet 96 to the compressor inlet 46a and from the compressor outlet 46b to the refrigerant condenser inlet 74.
  • the features described above relating to the switching valve 66 are applicable for all embodiments of washing machines disclosed herein.
  • the third and fourth refrigerant circuit section 50c, 50d which preferably extend between the top and the bottom of the washing machine 2 are preferably flexible pipes.
  • the piping of the remaining refrigerant circuit sections 50a, 50b, 50e - except the piping of the heat exchanger(s) itself, may also be provided as flexible pipes.
  • the flexible pipes may be easily adapted to paths which are not straight without requiring mechanical bending.
  • a large part of the third and fourth refrigerant circuit sections 50c, 50d may extend between the bottom region and the top region of the washing machine 2 where the top module 12 is arranged.
  • the third and fourth circuit sections 50c, 50d may run along at the left side of the washing machine 2 from bottom to top parallel to the side wall 10.
  • the tray element 12b comprises the evaporator tank 90 which may be arranged on only one side of the entire tray element 12b.
  • the tank 90 is arranged on the right side of the tray element 12b when seen the washing machine in front view (see Fig. 3).
  • the switching valve 66 may be arranged between the top module 12 and the drawer housing 14a.
  • the switching valve 66 and/or at least portions of the refrigerant circuit sections may be arranged in the remaining portion of the tray element 12b, next to the evaporator tank 90.
  • the switching valve 66 is arranged horizontally, more preferably the longitudinal axis of the switching valve 66 is parallel to the side wall of the washing machine 2.
  • the tray element 12b may further comprise at least one maintenance opening 13, preferably with a rectangular shape, arranged above or near the switching valve and/or the refrigerant circuit sections.
  • the washing liquid condenser inlet 70 is arranged at the left side of the top of the washing machine when seen in front view.
  • the washing liquid inlet 70 is arranged at the rear, in particular at the rear left comer of the top of the washing machine 2, preferably parallel to the side wall 10 of the washing machine 2.
  • the condenser 68 arranged below the tray element 12b forms a counterclockwise spiral along the edges of the tray element 12b.
  • the washing liquid condenser outlet 72 may be arranged parallel to the side walls of the washing machine, preferably the washing liquid condenser outlet 72 is arranged on the right side of the drawer housing 14a, when seen the washing machine 2 from a front view.
  • the switching valve 66 may be arranged horizontally between the condenser inlet and outlet 70, 72, preferably parallel to the condenser inlet and outlet 70, 72. This arrangement of the condenser 68 may create more space in the region between the condenser inlet and outlet 70, 72 and thus more space for the switching valve 66. Thus, more space for mounting and service of the switching valve 66 is available.
  • the condenser 68 may be a tube-in-tube condenser consisting of the inner tube 52c for guiding the washing liquid, an outer tube 50f for guiding the refrigerant and an insulation layer 69 when starting from the inside of the condenser 68 (see also Fig. 8B).
  • the flow direction of the refrigerant 78 and the washing liquid 80 within the condenser 68 may be opposite to each other for improving the heat exchange.
  • the refrigerant and the washing liquid have the same flow direction within the condenser 68.
  • Fig. 4 is an exploded view of the tray element 12b and a condensate collection arrangement.
  • the condensate collection arrangement is used for collecting and draining condensate which may form at the outer surface of the evaporator tank 90.
  • ice may be formed at the evaporator 92 within the evaporator tank 90 which results in temperature differences between the outer surface of the tank 92 and the air at the outside (environmental air). Due to these temperature differences between the evaporator tank 90 and the air surrounding the tank 90 from the outside, condensate may form at the outer surface of the tank 90 as the air cools when it comes in contact with the cool surface of the tank 90.
  • the condensate collection arrangement prevents the condensate from entering the interior of the washing machine 2 in an uncontrolled manner, in particular from entering an area within the washing machine 2 in which electronic components are arranged.
  • the condensate collection arrangement may comprise a collection tray 42 which is arranged at the top module 12, in particular at the tray element 12b, and which is adapted to collect the condensate formed at and drips from the outer surface of the evaporator tank 90.
  • the collection tray 42 is formed as a separate element which is mounted at the tray element 12b.
  • the collection tray 42 is arranged below the evaporator tank 90 (see Fig. 2, collection tray 42 in a mounted state).
  • the collection tray 42 forms a shell or a tank encapsulating the evaporator tank 90 from below.
  • the collection tray 42 may comprise at least one recess for receiving the evaporator inlet and outlet 94, 96 when arranged at the tray element 12b.
  • the collection tray 42 may comprise at least one drain outlet 42a which may be arranged at the bottom of the tank 42, preferably at the lowest or substantially lowest vertical level of the tank 42.
  • the condensate collected in the collection tray 42 may be guided or may be guided exclusively by gravity from the drain outlet 42a to the e.g. tub 36 or sump.
  • the bottom of the collection tray 42 is formed slanted such that the condensate formed at the outer surface of the evaporator tank 90 and dripping onto the inner bottom surface of the collection tray 42 is guided towards a predefined collection area, line or point of the inner bottom surface of the collection tray 42.
  • the drain outlet 42a is arranged at the lowest vertical level of the slanted bottom surface of the collection tray 42.
  • a first end portion of a condensate draining pipe 44 may be connected to the drain outlet 42a of the collection tray 42 and a second end portion of the condensate draining pipe 44 may be connected to the filter 32.
  • the condensate may then be drained out of the washing machine by the drain pump 58 via the water drain 58a.
  • a seal 45 for sealing the end portions of the condensate draining pipe 44 may be provided.
  • the second end portion of the condensate draining pipe 44 is connected to the interior of the tub 36 or with a sump of the tub 36 or another fluid line fluidly connected to the sump.
  • Fig. 5 is an exploded view of the tray element of Fig. 4.
  • the evaporator 92 arranged within the evaporator tank 90 may be provided with mounting elements 98 for fixing and defining the position of the evaporator 92 and the evaporator pipes within the tank 90.
  • One mounting element 98 may be mounted on each side of the evaporator 92.
  • the mounting elements 98 may be adapted to keep the pipes of the evaporator 92 at a distance from each other and in particular to keep the evaporator in its position when mounted inside the evaporator tank 90.
  • the mounting elements 98 may prevent the evaporator pipes from moving away from their position due to the forces exerted by ice formed within the evaporator tank 90 (i.e.
  • Each mounting element 98 may comprise openings for receiving pipes of the evaporator 92.
  • Each mounting element 98 may comprise one opening for each portion of the evaporator 92 in which the evaporator pipes form a reversal of direction.
  • One of the mounting elements 98 may be pushed onto the evaporator 92 from each side with its openings.
  • the evaporator 92 with the mounting elements 98 mounted at the evaporator 92 may be mountable within the evaporator tank 90 by e.g. a plug-in connection, a screw connection or suchlike. The connection may be designed to be detachable or non- detachable.
  • the mounting elements 98 are preferably arranged parallel to the front/rear side of the tray element 12b, when seen from a front view.
  • Fig. 6 is a perspective sectional view of the tray element of Fig. 4 with the collection tray in a non-engaged state and without the evaporator tank cover and the evaporator.
  • the evaporator tank 90 may comprise mounting elements 98a arranged within the tank 90, preferably at the bottom of the tank 90, more preferably several elements 98a at the front and rear side of the tank 90 when seen the washing machine from a front view, for mounting the evaporator 92 (see Fig. 5) within the evaporator tank 90.
  • the mounting elements 98a may be formed in a single piece construction with the evaporator tank 90 or may be formed separately and are then mounted at the evaporator tank 90.
  • the mounting elements 98a may be designed such that the evaporator pipes are mountable on the mounting elements 98a from above, e.g. by a click connection (snap-fit connection).
  • the tray element 12b may comprise a mounting surface 104 surrounding the circumferential upper edge of the evaporator tank 90.
  • the mounting surface 104 which is preferably parallel to the upper surface of the tray element 12b may comprise several holes 106 arranged along the mounting surface 104 for mounting the evaporator tank cover 26 (see Fig. 5) at the top of the evaporator tank 90 by e.g. screwing.
  • the cover 26 may be mounted by gluing or welding or may be formed in a single piece with the tray element 12b.
  • the mounting surface 104 is at a vertically lower level than the remaining upper surface of the tray element 12b for receiving the evaporator tank cover 26.
  • the evaporator tank 90 is formed in a single piece with the tray element, wherein the tank cover 26 is formed as a separate element which is mounted at the top of the evaporator tank 90, in particular at the top of the mounting surface 104 of the tray element 12b.
  • the tank 90 may be attached to the tray element 12b by e.g. screwing, gluing or welding and the tank cover 26 may be formed in a single piece with the tray element 12b.
  • Fig. 6 A is a detailed perspective view of region A of Fig. 6 and Fig. 6B is a detailed perspective view of the tray element of Fig. 6 with the collection tray in an engaged state.
  • the mounting surface 104 may comprise a connection element 108 (e.g. a clip and/or a locking element, in particular an element formed as a hook as shown in Fig. 6 A) for mounting the collection tray 42.
  • the connection element 108 may extend downwards from the mounting surface 104, when seen the washing machine from a front view.
  • the connection element 108 has an end portion with an enlarged horizontal cross section compared to the rest of the connection element 108, preferably formed in the shape of a hook.
  • the collection tray 42 may comprise a mounting surface 110 surrounding the circumferential upper edge of the collection tray 42.
  • the mounting surface 110 which is preferably perpendicular or substantially perpendicular to the side walls of the collection tray 42 may comprise several connection points (e.g. recesses) 112 arranged along the mounting surface 110 for receiving the connection elements 108 arranged at the tray element 12b.
  • connection points e.g. recesses
  • each of the connection elements 108 interacts with a respective opposite connection point 112 of the collection tray 42 and/or the top module 12 (tray element 12b).
  • one recess 112 may be assigned to each connection element 108 of the tray element 12b.
  • the recess 112 may have a first portion 112a and a second portion 112b, wherein the recess 112 is designed such that the end portion of the connection element 108 of the tray element 12b with the enlarged horizontal cross section is insertable through the second portion 112b, but not through the first portion 112a.
  • the recess 112 has a L-shape when seen from a top view, wherein in particular the vertical portion of the "L” is formed by the first portion 112a and the horizontal portion of the "L” is formed by the second portion.
  • the collection tray 42 When mounting, the collection tray 42 may be first inserted with the second portions 112b of the recesses 112 through the connection elements 108 of the tray element 12b (see Fig. 6A), in particular above the end portion with the enlarged horizontal cross section of the connection element 108, and may then be pushed horizontally or substantially horizontally, in particular pushing the first portion 112a in the direction of the connection element 108 of the tray element 12b (see Fig. 6B). Thereby, the collection tray 42 is secured vertically.
  • Fig. 7 is another perspective sectional view of Fig. 6 with the collection tray in the nonengaged state.
  • Fig. 7A is a detailed perspective view of region B of Fig. 7 and
  • Fig. 7B is a detailed perspective view of the tray element of Fig. 7 with the collection tray in an engaged state.
  • the tray element 12b may comprise at the underside a vertical wall facing the tub and surrounding at least partially the evaporator tank 90, in particular a vertical wall at the left side of the evaporator tank 90 when seen the washing machine from a front view.
  • the vertical wall may have an opening 116.
  • the collection tray 42 may comprise a protrusion 114 at the outer surface of the side wall (i.e. of the side wall facing the vertical wall of the tray element 12b in an assembled state of the collection tray 42).
  • the protrusion 114 may be at the outer surface of the left side wall of the collection tray 42 when seen the washing machine from a front view.
  • the collection tray 42 When the collection tray 42 is mounted at the tray element 12b by inserting the second portions 112b of the recesses through the connection elements 108 of the tray element 12b, the collection tray 42 is then pushed horizontally or substantially horizontally against the tray element 12b as described with respect to Figs. 6 to 6B until the protrusion 114 of the collection tray 42 enters the opening 116 formed in the vertical wall of the tray element 12b (see Fig. 7A with non-engaged state and Fig. 7B with engaged state of the protrusion 114 and the opening 116).
  • connection between the condensate collection tray 42 and the top module 12, in particular the tray element 12b, is not limited to the above described embodiment.
  • the collection tray 42 may be mounted to the tray element 12b or the evaporator tank 90 from below by e.g. gluing, screwing or welding or the collection tray 42 may be formed in a single piece construction with the tray element 12b.
  • Figs. 8A to 10B different configurations for preventing the formation of condensate at the outer surface of the collection tray 42 are described. The different configurations are combinable with each other.
  • Fig. 8 A is a perspective view of the tray element of Fig. 6 from below with the condenser 68 and the collection tray 42 in an assembled state.
  • the condenser 68 may be arranged in a recess provided on an underside of the tray element 12b (a surface of the tray element 12b facing the tub 36 of the washing machine when mounted) that may form a channel extending along at least one side of the evaporator tank 90, in particular of the collection tray 42, preferably along at least two or three sides of the evaporator tank 90 (collection tray 42).
  • the condenser 68 extends along four sides of the evaporator tank 90 and the collection tray 42.
  • the evaporator 92 and the condenser 68 may be arranged in the same plane and the condenser 68 is guided at least partially around the evaporator 92 (not shown).
  • the condenser 68 is provided along four peripheral sides of the tray element 12b, wherein it is provided partially at a first and fourth side thereof. Alternatively it is provided along at least two or three peripheral sides of the tray element.
  • the condenser 68 is preferably located within the base area of the tray element 12b when seen from above (with respect to an operational orientation of the top module/laundry treatment machine).
  • Fig. 8A shows that preferably the condenser 68 is guided along the inner side of the peripheral side walls 83 of the tray element 12b.
  • the side walls 83 form part of a receptacle for receiving the condenser 68 thereby protecting and/or supporting the condenser 68 within the tray element (top module) during assembling.
  • the condenser 68 is arranged at a vertical level (in operational orientation) between the evaporator tank 90/collection tray 42 and the peripheral side walls 83 - at least along sides of evaporator tank 90 where no further components of the tray element 12b are arranged.
  • the condenser 68 is positioned between the peripheral side walls 7 and the outer lateral wall of the evaporator tank 90 at one, two or three sides of the evaporator tank 90.
  • Fig. 8B is a vertical sectional view of the tray element along the intersection line C-C of Fig. 8A.
  • An intermediate space is formed between the outer surface of the evaporator tank 90 and inner surface of the collection tray 42 for collection the condensate formed on and dripping down from the evaporator tank 90.
  • said air gap is formed between the outer bottom surface of the evaporator tank 90 and the inner bottom surface of the collection tray 42.
  • the air gap may also be formed between the whole or partial outer surface of the side walls of the evaporator tank 90 and the whole or partial inner surface of the collection tray 42 (i.e. the air gap is formed where the inner surface of the collection tray 42 faces the outer surface of the evaporator tank 90).
  • the condenser 68 is preferably arranged next to the mounting surface of the collection tray 42.
  • both components are arranged next to each other such that waste heat of the condenser 68 may be transferred to the collection tray 42, in particular to the outer surface of the collection tray 42.
  • the collection tray 42 may be kept at a temperature above the temperature at which condensate forms or at least at a temperature such that the formation of condensate is reduced. This prevents or at least reduces forming of condensate that that otherwise may form at the outer surface of the collection tray 42 with the risk of falling into the interior of the machine, in particular into areas with components such as electronic components and may thus prevent damage to these components.
  • Fig. 9 A is a perspective view of the tray element of Fig. 8 A from below with a thermal contact between the condenser and collection tray
  • Fig. 9B is a vertical sectional view of the tray element along the intersection line D-D of Fig. 9A.
  • the collection tray 42 may comprise contact elements 118 which are preferably arranged at the upper rim of the collection tray 42.
  • the collection tray 42 comprises two contact elements 118 arranged on opposing sides at the upper rim 110.
  • at least one contact element 118 is arranged at the left side and one at the right side of the collection tray 42 when seen the washing machine from a front view.
  • the collection tray 42 may comprise 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 or more contact elements 118 which are preferably arranged symmetrically at the collection tray 42.
  • the contact element 118 protrudes from the collection tray 42 to the condenser 68, wherein a direct contact (heat exchange contact) between the collection tray 42 and the condenser 68 is obtained by the contact element 118.
  • the direct contact may ensure that the collection tray 42 is heated up to a temperature above a temperature at which condensate can form.
  • the heat transfer may be increased and a uniform heating of the entire of substantially entire collection tray 42 may be achieved
  • the contact element 118 may be a separate element mountable to the condenser 68 and/or the collection tray 42 removably by e.g. screwing or by a snap-in connection or non removably by e.g. gluing or welding.
  • the contact element 118 may be formed in a single piece construction with the collection tray 42.
  • the contact element 118 may protrude laterally at the top of the collection tray, in particular at the upper rim (upper outer edge) at the top of the collection tray (i.e. the contact element extends away from the collection tray).
  • the collection tray 42 in particular the contact element 118, is in direct heat exchange contact with an insulation layer 69 surrounding an outer tube 50f of the condenser 68, wherein in particular refrigerant (or washing liquid) is flowing through the outer tube of the condenser.
  • the end portions of the contact elements 118 are preferably formed with the same or substantially same radius as the condenser, in particular with the radius of the insulation layer 69.
  • the condenser 68 fits well in the contact element 118 so that a large contact surface for heat transfer between the collection tray 42 and the condenser 68 may be achieved.
  • the end portion of the collection tray 42 being in contact with the condenser may be designed such that the end portion is mountable by snapping it onto the condenser 68, in particular the insulation layer of the condenser 68.
  • Fig. 10A is a perspective view of the tray element of Fig. 9 A from below with another design of the thermal contact between condenser and collection tray
  • Fig. 10B is a vertical sectional view of the tray element along the intersection line E-E of Fig. 10A.
  • the collection tray 42 in particular the contact element 118a, is in direct heat exchange contact with the outer tube of the condenser (i.e. insulation layer is removed at this region of the condenser), wherein in particular refrigerant (or washing liquid) is flowing through the outer tube of the condenser.
  • refrigerant or washing liquid
  • the end portion of the contact elements 118 are preferably formed with the same or substantially same radius as the radius of the outer tube 50f of the condenser 68.
  • the condenser 68 fits well in the contact element 118 so that a large contact surface for heat transfer between the collection tray 42 and the condenser 68 may be achieved.
  • connection element (hook element) for collection tray
  • connection point for receiving connection element

Landscapes

  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Textile Engineering (AREA)
  • Detail Structures Of Washing Machines And Dryers (AREA)

Abstract

L'invention concerne une machine de traitement du linge, en particulier une machine à laver (2) ou un lave-linge séchant. La machine de traitement du linge comprend une armoire (4) logeant une cuve (36) et un tambour (38) agencé de manière rotative dans la cuve (36) pour laver le linge en son sein, une pompe à chaleur ayant un compresseur (46), un évaporateur (92) et un condenseur (68), le condenseur (68) étant conçu pour chauffer un liquide de lavage, un réservoir d'évaporateur (90) logeant l'évaporateur (92) ou au moins une partie de l'évaporateur (92), le réservoir d'évaporateur (90) étant un réservoir de stockage d'un fluide d'échange de chaleur, le réservoir d'évaporateur (90) étant agencé dans une région supérieure de l'armoire (4) et un plateau de collecte (42) agencé au-dessous du réservoir d'évaporateur (90) et étant conçu pour collecter le condensat formé sur le réservoir d'évaporateur (90) et qui a goutté vers le bas à partir de celui-ci, un espace d'air (82) étant formé entre le côté externe du réservoir d'évaporateur (90) et le côté interne du plateau de collecte (42).
PCT/EP2022/058374 2022-03-30 2022-03-30 Machine de traitement du linge avec pompe à chaleur WO2023186285A1 (fr)

Priority Applications (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
PCT/EP2022/058374 WO2023186285A1 (fr) 2022-03-30 2022-03-30 Machine de traitement du linge avec pompe à chaleur

Applications Claiming Priority (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
PCT/EP2022/058374 WO2023186285A1 (fr) 2022-03-30 2022-03-30 Machine de traitement du linge avec pompe à chaleur

Publications (1)

Publication Number Publication Date
WO2023186285A1 true WO2023186285A1 (fr) 2023-10-05

Family

ID=81392847

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
PCT/EP2022/058374 WO2023186285A1 (fr) 2022-03-30 2022-03-30 Machine de traitement du linge avec pompe à chaleur

Country Status (1)

Country Link
WO (1) WO2023186285A1 (fr)

Citations (5)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US20140026433A1 (en) * 2011-01-04 2014-01-30 Electrolux Home Products Corporation N.V. Appliance for drying laundry
WO2014127799A1 (fr) * 2013-02-19 2014-08-28 Electrolux Appliances Aktiebolag Machine à laver
EP2978360A1 (fr) 2013-03-28 2016-02-03 Electrolux Appliances Aktiebolag Appareil de lavage à pompe à chaleur
US20170342643A1 (en) * 2016-05-31 2017-11-30 Wuxi Little Swan Co., Ltd. Clothes dryer or washer-dryer
EP3622876A1 (fr) * 2018-09-11 2020-03-18 Miele & Cie. KG Lave-vaisselle, en particulier lave-vaisselle électroménager

Patent Citations (6)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US20140026433A1 (en) * 2011-01-04 2014-01-30 Electrolux Home Products Corporation N.V. Appliance for drying laundry
WO2014127799A1 (fr) * 2013-02-19 2014-08-28 Electrolux Appliances Aktiebolag Machine à laver
EP2978360A1 (fr) 2013-03-28 2016-02-03 Electrolux Appliances Aktiebolag Appareil de lavage à pompe à chaleur
EP2978360B1 (fr) * 2013-03-28 2017-08-23 Electrolux Appliances Aktiebolag Appareil de lavage à pompe à chaleur
US20170342643A1 (en) * 2016-05-31 2017-11-30 Wuxi Little Swan Co., Ltd. Clothes dryer or washer-dryer
EP3622876A1 (fr) * 2018-09-11 2020-03-18 Miele & Cie. KG Lave-vaisselle, en particulier lave-vaisselle électroménager

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
US9212441B2 (en) Laundry machine with an integrated heat pump system
US11807981B2 (en) Clothing treatment device
RU2528354C2 (ru) Электроприбор для сушки белья
KR100928110B1 (ko) 드럼식 세탁 건조기
US6925831B2 (en) Unit type air conditioner
CN104903507A (zh) 衣物处理设备
EP2471998B1 (fr) Appareil de séchage de linge
CN103827385B (zh) 热泵干燥机
JP5465551B2 (ja) 洗濯機および洗濯乾燥機
WO2007086641A2 (fr) Section interieure de climatiseur
WO2023186285A1 (fr) Machine de traitement du linge avec pompe à chaleur
US20110061416A1 (en) Subassembly for a refrigerating and/or freezing apparatus, assembly and refrigerating and/or freezing apparatus
CN113322633B (zh) 衣物处理装置
WO2023186286A1 (fr) Procédé et machine de traitement de linge utilisant une pompe à chaleur avec régénération d'évaporateur
JP4843653B2 (ja) 空調ユニット
WO2023186280A1 (fr) Machine de traitement du linge avec pompe à chaleur
WO2023186282A1 (fr) Module supérieur pour une machine de traitement du linge avec pompe à chaleur
WO2023186284A1 (fr) Machine de traitement du linge avec pompe à chaleur
EP4039872A2 (fr) Appareil de traitement du linge et procédé de commande correspondant
WO2023186281A1 (fr) Machine de traitement du linge avec pompe à chaleur
EP4039873B1 (fr) Appareil de traitement du linge
WO2023186278A1 (fr) Machine de traitement du linge avec pompe à chaleur
JP2010063688A (ja) 空調ユニット
WO2023186277A1 (fr) Machine de traitement du linge avec pompe à chaleur
WO2023186279A1 (fr) Machine de traitement du linge avec pompe à chaleur

Legal Events

Date Code Title Description
121 Ep: the epo has been informed by wipo that ep was designated in this application

Ref document number: 22719548

Country of ref document: EP

Kind code of ref document: A1