Washing machine comprising a fuel cell and a hydrogen generating reactor

Abstract

Machine for washing items of various kind, comprising a washing tub (1) containing the washing liquor, and provided with a reactor (3) performing a twofold function, i.e. generating heat for heating up said washing liquor and a stream of gaseous hydrogen supplying a fuel cell (2) that generates a source of electric power. In the interior thereof, said reactor contains a mass of metals, preferablycomprising magnesium, and produces a stream of gaseous hydrogen. The machine further comprises a source of water that is let into said reactor to trigger the reaction process producing said hydrogen,a fuel cell that receives said stream of hydrogen and converts at into electric power, electric connection means adapted to transfer the electric power generated by said fuel cell to control and actuation means comprised m said machine, and means for transferring the heat generated by said reactor to said washing liquor. In the interior thereof, said reactor comprises a first heat exchanger (8) adapted to transfer the heat being generated theremside to the washing liquor contained m said washing tub of the machine.

Description

technical field [0001] The present invention relates to an improved washing machine, in particular a washing machine or a dishwasher, which is adapted to operate substantially without being powered by any supply line. Background technique [0002] While throughout the following description reference will be made to domestic washing machines, it should be understood that the invention is equally applicable to any type of machine requiring substantial heat to heat wash or process liquids, as well as a stable low voltage power supply. In this sense, therefore, it should be understood that it can be effectively and advantageously adapted for use in a dishwasher. [0003] It is generally known in the art that there is an urgent need to reduce the consumption of electrical energy delivered by power supply lines and to keep this consumption as low as possible. It is also known that household appliance manufacturers generally strive to provide appliances that operate on ever decrea...

AI Technical Summary

Problems solved by technology

[0016] Further consideration must be given to the fact that the fuel converter is in any case a piece of equipment which, although miniaturized to the greatest possible extent, has always maintained a very large size, which is not as expected from a normal household appliance. The combined use is not suitable, that is, incompatible

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