System for filtering a liquid, water-conducting household appliance, method for filtering a liquid

Abstract

A system for filtering a liquid, in particular for a water guide household appliance, is provided. The system comprises a housing having at least one movable element in its interior, which together with the housing defines at least one space which is substantially fluid-tight, a liquid supply configured for supplying liquid to the at least one space. At least a portion of the housing is configured as a filter element, so that liquid can be discharged from the at least one space via a filter surface of the filter element. The filter element is configured for filtering particles from the liquid. The filter surface of the filter element is variable by means of the at least one movable element, so that the filter surface of the filter element available for the liquid can be changed, in particular in terms of its position and / or size, by means of the at least one movable element. A water guide household appliance having the system and a method for filtering a liquid are also provided.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a system for filtering liquids, a water-conducting household appliance having the system, and a method for filtering liquids. Background Technology

[0002] Filters are commonly used in water-conducting household appliances to remove specific particles from the liquid flow based on their size. These filters are used, for example, to filter influent entering the appliance or wastewater exiting it. They are also used to filter liquids circulating in a loop within the appliance. Here, for example, microplastic particles can be filtered out of the liquid. In these applications, so-called dead-end filtration is used, where the filtered particles remain on the filter surface. However, there is a risk that the filter will become clogged rapidly and prematurely by the filtered particles. This can increase the hydraulic resistance of the filter. In other words, with a constant pressure of the liquid being filtered, the volumetric flow through the filter will decrease rapidly.

[0003] KR 2011123359 A illustrates a dryer with a fan. The fan has a circular filter surface that can be swept over by a strip element. This removes impurities accumulated on the filter surface. The separated impurities then fall downwards and are collected in a collection housing. However, this solution is only shown in conjunction with air as the medium to be filtered. Summary of the Invention

[0004] Therefore, the object of the present invention is to provide a system, a water-guiding household appliance, and a method for filtering liquids, said system, water-guiding household appliance, and method, which can prevent premature clogging of the filter and thus ensure constant hydraulic resistance of the filter.

[0005] This task is accomplished by the system for filtering liquids according to the invention, the water-conducting household appliance according to the invention, and the method for filtering liquids according to the invention. Advantageous extensions of the invention are described in the specification.

[0006] According to the present invention, a system for filtering liquids, particularly for water-conducting household appliances, is provided. The system comprises: a housing having at least one movable element therein, the movable element defining, together with the housing, at least one substantially fluid-tight space; a liquid supply section configured to supply liquid to the at least one space, wherein at least a portion of the housing is configured as a filter element, thereby allowing liquid to be discharged from the at least one space via a filter surface of the filter element, wherein the filter element is configured to filter particles from the liquid, and wherein the filter surface of the filter element is variable via the at least one movable element, such that the filter surface of the filter element available for use with liquid can be changed by the at least one movable element, particularly in terms of the position and / or size of the filter surface.

[0007] "Filtration" can be understood in particular as the separation of solids transported with a liquid from the liquid. Filtration can be performed by a filter element (i.e., a filter). The liquid can pass through the filter surface of the filter element. Here, solids can be trapped in / on the filter element, while the liquid can pass through the filter element. The liquid can include liquid components (e.g., water, treatment agents, etc.) and solids (e.g., impurities, detergent residues, foreign matter, etc.). The filtered liquid can be called filtrate. The filtration process (i.e., the liquid passing through the filter element) can be achieved by the liquid pressure difference between the area upstream of the filter element and the area downstream of the filter element (relative to the direction of liquid flow). This system is preferably used in time-constrained filtration processes, such as limited inflow or outflow of liquid. Solids can be trapped on the surface of the filter element. Solids can be particles that use the liquid as a carrier. This can be, in particular, dirt, textile fibers (cotton, polyester, polyamide, etc.), hair, detergent residues, coins, buttons, food scraps, etc. The liquid can be inflow water, fresh water, wastewater, or dirty water that is initially or subsequently supplied to a specific process. The liquid can be a circulating liquid, such as lye. Water-conducting household appliances can be, for example, washing machines, dishwashers, fully automatic coffee machines, and / or washer-dryers.

[0008] The housing can be a shape-stable housing. The housing can particularly have a cylindrical, rectangular, or square shape. The housing preferably encloses a movable element. The movable element is movable relative to the housing. Here, "movable / movable" means that the movable element can change its position and / or orientation relative to the housing. The movable element is preferably movable and / or rotated relative to the housing, thereby performing translational and / or rotational movements within the housing.

[0009] Preferably, the movable element and the housing can be constructed such that the external shape of the movable element matches the internal shape of the housing, so that the movable element can be pushed into the housing, particularly flush with it. In other words, the gap between a specific part of the movable element (e.g., the contact area) and the housing can be very small, preferably less than 0.5 mm. Elements (e.g., strip elements and / or sealing elements) can preferably be arranged in the gap between the movable element and the housing, reducing or closing the gap between them. Furthermore, the movable element can be in direct and / or indirect contact with the housing. The movable element can have at least one additional movable element, preferably at least one blade, which can be pre-tightened to contact the housing.

[0010] Within the scope of this invention, "fluid seal" means that the undesirable leakage of liquid from a space can be largely prevented. Here, the term essentially means: leakage of liquid through gaps caused by manufacturing tolerances and / or wear, particularly at the contact points between the movable element and the housing, is not considered. In other words, according to the invention, a space is still considered fluid-sealed when a small amount of liquid leaks out. In particular, according to the invention, a space can still be considered fluid-sealed if up to 5% of the liquid supplied to it undesirably leaks out. In the definition of fluid seal, any openings, inlets, or outlets for supplying or removing liquid from the space are not considered, as they would cause desired liquid introduction and / or liquid removal. In other words, the space can be fluid-sealed when the inlet and outlet are closed. The space can be formed and enclosed by sections of the housing and sections of the movable element.

[0011] The liquid supply unit according to the invention may have an inlet for the liquid to be filtered. For this purpose, the inlet may be arranged on the housing and / or movable elements such that the liquid to be filtered can be supplied into the space. Furthermore, the liquid supply unit may have a closing element configured to control and / or cut off the liquid supply to the space. The closing element may be a separate component or an integral component of the liquid supply unit. The inlet may have any shape suitable for supplying the liquid to be filtered (i.e., a liquid with solids transported therein) to the space. Preferably, the inlet may be advantageously flowably connected to the housing, particularly tangentially. Furthermore, the liquid supply unit may also have multiple inlets that can supply the liquid to be filtered to the space simultaneously or intermittently.

[0012] Filter elements can be configured to perform the aforementioned filtration process. For this purpose, the filter element can be a filter with a pore size that blocks solids (particles) from the liquid but allows the liquid to pass through. The filter can particularly have a pore size in the range of 5 μm to 150 μm, preferably in the range of 5 μm to 100 μm, and particularly preferably in the range of 30 μm to 50 μm. In other words, the filtration effect can be achieved through a sieving effect, according to which the filter pores are smaller than the particles to be blocked. The filter element can be arranged such that it is positioned within a recess of the housing and continues the general orientation of the housing. The filter element can particularly be arranged in the circumferential surface of the housing. Additionally or alternatively, the filter element can be arranged in the cover surface (base surface) of the housing. Here, the filter element itself can be sufficiently rigid to reliably conform to the shape of the housing (e.g., a sieve made of solid material, metal, or plastic), or the filter element can be made of a softer filter material (e.g., fabric) and have a suitable support structure. The filter element can have a frame that supports the filter element and provides the necessary stability. The filter element may have a filter surface on which solids filtered from the liquid and unable to pass through the filter element accumulate. Preferably, the filter surface extends over almost the entire surface of the filter element. Preferably, the filter surface may face the interior of the space.

[0013] Furthermore, the filter element can function as an outlet configured to discharge liquid from the space. In other words, liquid can flow out of the space through the filter element. As it flows out of the space, the liquid can be filtered by the filter element. Additionally, the liquid can also be discharged from the housing. Trapped particles can remain on the filter surface within the space, while the filtrate can be discharged from the space. The filter element can have a sealing element that controls and / or prevents liquid from flowing out of the space. Here, the sealing element can be arranged as a separate component downstream of the filter element (in the direction of liquid flow), or the sealing element can be part of the filter element.

[0014] Preferably, the filter surface for use with the liquid can be changed in position and / or size due to the movement of the movable element. Here, the filter surface can be enlarged and / or reduced, or moved or displaced while maintaining the same size. Here, the filter surface itself does not move or move, but rather the portion of the filter surface through which fluid can flow (i.e., the usable portion of the filter surface) moves or moves. The filter surface for use with the fluid can be formed between the movable element and the housing, or between two movable elements (e.g., between two pistons). In other words, the area of ​​the filter surface through which liquid can pass can vary. Here, the filter surface can change proportionally to changes in the volume of the space. In other words, the filter surface for use with the liquid is variable depending on the position of at least one movable element within the housing. For example, if the space in the housing is small, the usable filter surface can also be small. Conversely, for example, if the space in the housing is large, the usable filter surface can also be large. Therefore, the section of the housing that forms the space together with the movable element can vary according to the position of the movable element. Therefore, the size of the usable filter surface can be adjusted and / or controlled by the movable element. The system preferably has a control unit that controls the movable element. Preferably, the movable element can be controlled based on real-time detected data. In particular, the movable element can be controlled based on the hydraulic resistance of the system. The hydraulic resistance can be determined based on the pressure within the space and / or the pressure in the inflow pipe that supplies liquid to the space. The movable element can also be controlled directly based on measured pressures in the space and / or in the inflow pipe. Additionally or alternatively, the movement of the movable element can be controlled based on elapsed time and / or the amount of filtrate that has passed through the filter element. The data required for this can be detected by sensors that can be installed in the system.

[0015] Furthermore, at least one movable element can be housed in the housing such that, as the filter surface of the filter element changes, alternating functional contacts are established between the space and the liquid supply section, and between the space and the outlet section, through the filter element. This allows for periodic pumping motion during the movement of the movable element, which can pump the maximum volume (liquid) contained within each cycle. In other words, when the space expands, liquid can be drawn into the space through the liquid supply section. Advantageously, a check valve is provided downstream of the filter element (with respect to the direction of liquid flow) to prevent liquid from flowing back into the space through the filter element. When the space shrinks, the liquid can be forced through the filter element and thus discharged from the space due to the increased pressure within the space. It is also conceivable that a check valve is provided upstream of the liquid supply section (with respect to the direction of liquid flow), or other means can be used to prevent liquid from flowing out of the space through the liquid supply section. For example, it is also conceivable that, as the space shrinks, a portion of the movable element closes the liquid supply section. Thus, the system can also be used to pump liquid to be filtered. This is particularly advantageous for small volumes to be pumped. Furthermore, it is conceivable to arrange such a system in the bottom area of ​​a water-conducting household appliance, and to use it to pump water out from the low point of the water-conducting system (e.g., a pump pit). By structural design, such a low point typically contains a liquid that may leak from the appliance when the maintenance port is opened, which is inconvenient for the user. With the system according to the invention, such a low point (e.g., a pump pit) can be pumped empty.

[0016] Furthermore, a filtrate collector can be provided, which at least partially surrounds the system housing. The filtrate can flow out over a large area from the downstream side of the filter element and can be collected in the filtrate collector. The filtrate collector can be configured to discharge the filtrate in a defined manner. The filtrate collector can be constructed, for example, in a funnel shape and / or have a funnel-shaped outlet. The filtrate collector can be configured such that the filtrate can be supplied to a corresponding part of the water-conducting household appliance, such as a drain pipe or a circulation pump pipe. Preferably, the system can be received in a filtrate collector that can operate without pressure, particularly preferably in a flushing shell or flushing housing of a washing machine that functions as a filtrate collector, and the system can be used for circulation pump filtration there. Furthermore, under the influence of gravity, the filtrate can flow downwards from the filter element into the filtrate collector, which is configured as a flushing housing, and the filtrate can be collected and supplied to the entire system, for example, via an alkaline container. Thus, an additional filtrate collector is unnecessary; that is, the system has an outwardly open filter surface. Furthermore, the filtrate collector can be part of the housing, and in particular, it can be integrally constructed with the housing. Thus, the system can be configured in a particularly simple manner.

[0017] The system according to the invention offers particular advantages over the prior art by ensuring constant hydraulic resistance through the change in available filter surface, thereby ensuring a constant flow of liquid through the system (at a constant pumping power). Thus, for example, at the start of the filtration process, the movable element can be arranged in the space in a way that makes the space relatively small (intermediate position). After the filtration process begins, the available filter surface becomes clogged by the filtered particles. In this case, without any countermeasures, the flow rate through the system decreases rapidly and significantly. In the system according to the invention, the movable element can now move such that the space in the housing increases, and the filter surface available for the liquid also increases. This allows new, unclogged filter surfaces to be available for the liquid, thereby keeping the flow rate through the system constant. This control can be conditionally matched based on real-time detected data (see above). Furthermore, in the system according to the invention, the position (i.e., the position of the filter surface available for the liquid) can be changed. Here, the area of ​​the filter surface available for the liquid can remain constant, while the position of the space (and therefore the filter surface) in the housing is changed only by means of at least one movable element, thereby providing new, unoccupied filter surfaces for the liquid. With the system according to the invention, the hydraulic resistance of the system can be kept constant during the filtration process. This allows, for example, the size of the pump used to establish the pressure differential required for the filtration process to be determined relatively small, which improves the energy efficiency of the system. Furthermore, due to the constant hydraulic resistance, the flow rate can also be kept constant (e.g., in gravity-based systems). Moreover, a single filtration process can be sustained longer and / or repeated more times without having to clean the filter elements.

[0018] The filter surface can preferably occupy the entire surface of the housing. It is also conceivable that the filter surface occupies 30% to 90% of the housing surface, preferably 50% to 80%. Here, the surface of the housing can be formed by a circumferential surface and / or a cover surface. Furthermore, the filter surface can also occupy the surface of the housing in separate areas. The housing may particularly include frame-like structures with the filter surface between the frame-like structures.

[0019] A large enough filter surface offers the advantage that the filter surface can be varied considerably by the movement of at least one movable element. This increases the time period during which the system's hydraulic resistance remains constant. Surfaces of the housing not used as filter surfaces can be used for static purposes or as a deposit for filtered particles. Preferred areas provide the optimal ratio of filter surface to other available surfaces.

[0020] At least one movable element is preferably configured to move along the filter element during its movement, and thereby move from the filter surface and / or collect particles blocked by the filter element; the movable element preferably has a scraper-like section for this purpose.

[0021] Here, the scraper-like section can be a scraping body, such as a scraper, having a defined edge or a defined area, by means of which particles are removed from the surface to be scraped (i.e., the filter surface), for example by moving the particles. The edge or defined area can be a hard element (e.g., a plastic lip) or a soft element (e.g., a rubber lip). Furthermore, the edge or defined area can include multiple bristles (e.g., a brush). Additionally, the scraper-like section can be an abzieher, preferably having, for example, a rubber scraper lip to compensate for unevenness. The scraper-like section can be elastically deformable. The scraper-like section can be arranged, in particular, vertically or obliquely, on a movable element. As the movable element moves along the filter element, it can contact the filter element. Preferably, the movable element can be configured such that it and / or other elements disposed within it are pressed against the filter element with a predetermined pressure. The movable element can have additional scraper-like sections (e.g., strip lips) that contact the filter element at least during the movement of at least one movable element. Preferably, the movable element can move along the filter surface during the filtration process. Additionally or alternatively, at least one movable element can move along the filter surface when no filtration process is being performed. In this document, "collection" can mean that particles displaced from the filter surface can be received by the movable element and / or pushed forward before at least one movable element, and thus displaced by the movable element. If two movable elements are provided, particles can be collected and / or moved by each movable element. This can be done simultaneously or intermittently. The scraper-like section of the movable element in contact with the filter surface can have a specific geometry that can match the shape of the filter surface. For example, the scraper-like section can have a straight (i.e., continuous) shape. Alternatively, the scraper-like section can also have a sinusoidal curved shape or a serrated shape. Any shape suitable for removing particles trapped on the filter surface by moving the particles is conceivable. In particular, particles can be removed from the filter surface by scraping, rubbing, peeling, or combinations thereof, thereby restoring the permeability of the filter element to the liquid. To better match the scraper-like section of the movable element that contacts the filter element, this scraper-like section can be configured to be elastically deformable. Alternatively or additionally, the filter element can be configured to be elastically deformable. This ensures that the movable element always reliably contacts the filter surface, thus reliably creating space on the one hand, and reliably moving and / or collecting particles blocked by the filter element on the other. Furthermore, the elasticity ensures that the movable element will not damage the filter element.

[0022] The housing preferably has an additional closable opening through which filtered particles, especially those moved and / or collected by movable elements, can be discharged.

[0023] Particles filtered from the liquid and removed from the filter surface can be collected in a sedimentation chamber within the space (i.e., moved there). The sedimentation chamber can be a region of the space. At least during system operation, the space may be pressurized to a level higher than ambient pressure and filled with water, making emptying the sedimentation chamber laborious or inconvenient for the user. In particular, the user must open the pressure-resistant and watertight housing and remove the typically wet particles. In this case, a disposable system could be envisioned, in which the sedimentation chamber must be emptied along with the rest of the system. However, in this solution, the mass of the discarded components is disproportionate to the mass of the filtered particles. To address this problem of removing filtered particles, a gate mechanism (Schleusenmechanismus) is used, which allows the filtered particles to cross the system's wet-dry boundary and pressure boundary, automatically discharging them from the space through additional openings.

[0024] The additional opening can be a discharge opening for particles collected by at least one movable element. This additional opening can be attached to the liquid supply section. The additional opening can communicate with a space. The opening is preferably connected to and / or located near a sedimentation section within the space. Here, the opening has a sufficiently large diameter to discharge a large quantity of collected particles from the space. The opening can have a closure member that closes the opening, for example, during the filtration process. The closure member can be configured as a passive closure member that works in conjunction with the movable element such that it opens when the movable element is in a specific position. Alternatively, the opening can be closed by a portion of the movable element, thus the movable element can also serve as a closure member for the discharge opening. Furthermore, the opening can also be closed and opened by another movable element disposed in the space.

[0025] If particles are moved from the filter surface by the movable element and collected in a specific area within the space (near another opening), such as in the sedimentation section, the other opening can be opened and the particles discharged from the space. Preferably, a collection container is provided outside the space to receive the discharged particles. During particle discharge, the movable element is preferably positioned in the housing such that the space communicates only with the discharge opening. In other words, during discharge, the liquid supply section and / or filter element can be separated from the space (i.e., not communicated with the space) by the movable element or a portion thereof.

[0026] With this preferred embodiment, particles can automatically overcome the wet-dry boundary and pressure boundary of the system, thereby improving the maintenance and operability of the system according to the invention. In particular, the user neither needs to clean the filter surface himself nor manually remove moist residues through the water gate opening when necessary. Furthermore, the discharged particles in the collection container can be further dried actively or passively, thereby making the removal of these particles particularly advantageous.

[0027] The system preferably also includes an ejector configured to discharge filtered particles from the space through an additional sealable opening.

[0028] The ejector can be a slider-type element configured to eject particles from the space. Alternatively, the ejector can be a nozzle configured to discharge a medium and thus expel particles from the space. The medium is preferably air. Alternatively, a liquid can also be used as the medium. Here, the pressure of the medium discharged from the nozzle is measured such that it ensures particles can be discharged from the space, particularly from at least one movable element and / or housing. Here, the ejector can be configured such that the collected particles can be discharged from the space.

[0029] Preferably, the movable element can be arranged and / or configured such that the particles moved and / or collected by the movable element can be pressed together by the interaction of the movable element with the housing and / or with other movable elements, so as to expel liquid from the collected particles.

[0030] The movement of the movable element not only moves and / or collects particles from the filter surface of the filter element, but also compresses the particles in conjunction with other movable elements and / or the housing. Here, the collected particles can be pressed together (compressed) between the movable element and the housing and / or other movable elements. Furthermore, liquid remaining during this compression process can be squeezed out of the particles. The liquid squeezed out of the particles can be discharged from the space through the filter element or other suitable discharge path. In particular, compression can be achieved by reducing the size of at least one space. If multiple movable elements are provided in the system, the reduction of space and thus particle compression can be achieved through the relative movement of the multiple movable elements relative to each other, especially through asynchronous movement. Preferably, in the case of multiple movable elements, only the element that collects and / or moves particles from the filter surface can be actively driven, while other elements can be housed in the housing and close other openings (discharge openings). The actively driven movable element can be configured to press the collected particles against the non-actively driven movable element. If the pressure rises above a predetermined limit, the undriven movable element can also move (i.e., move relative to the housing), thereby releasing the discharge opening. Here, the undriven movable element can be supported, for example, by a return spring. Thus, the undriven movable element can be pressed back to its initial position (e.g., in the position where the discharge opening is closed).

[0031] By compressing the particles together, granular materials can be formed. These granules occupy less space and are easy to store and remove, especially due to the reduced pore size. Because the collected particles are dehydrated, they contain almost no liquid, and the granules are compact and easier to store. Furthermore, the collection and storage of the particles are more hygienic due to the removal of most of the liquid. Additionally, users are more inclined to actively dispose of particles in residual waste rather than in wastewater, thus reducing clogging in wastewater systems.

[0032] Preferably, at least one movable element may be a piston configured for reciprocating motion within the housing, and in particular, two pistons may be provided, the two pistons being configured for reciprocating motion relative to each other within the housing.

[0033] The piston, as a movable element, can form a fluid-sealed space together with the housing, which can be altered by the movement of the piston. Due to the reciprocating motion of the piston, it can be referred to as a reciprocating piston. Preferably, the piston can be driven by an actuator or a servo motor. Alternatively, DC motors, AC motors, stepper motors, or BLDC motors can also be envisioned to drive the movable element. Furthermore, two pistons movable relative to each other can be arranged within the housing. In other words, these pistons are movable relative to the housing and relative to each other. Moreover, the actuator for at least one movable element (piston) can be connected by a transmission mechanism (e.g., crank mechanism, connecting rod mechanism, cam mechanism). For example, a suitable sequence of movements can be achieved by means of a crank mechanism with two cranks to achieve a phase offset of approximately 90° between the first movable element (e.g., the first piston) and the second movable element (e.g., the second piston). Alternatively, the movable element can be operated by a passive mechanism, which can be driven by water pressure. An actuator is not required here, as the system with all functions can be operated by water pressure. By appropriately selecting the piston diameter, the driving force can be arbitrarily adjusted under a given pump pressure, because the hydraulic driving force increases with the piston area in a square manner, while the required driving force increases with the circumference in a roughly proportional manner, i.e. linearly, with the diameter.

[0034] Furthermore, the housing can have a cylindrical shape. A paddle-shaped main piston can be disposed within the housing, which performs coaxial circular motion relative to the housing, and a paddle-shaped second piston can also perform coaxial circular motion relative to the housing. Here, the main piston can move slowly counterclockwise and is located to the left of the liquid supply section. The liquid supply section can thus be connected to the chamber on the right, where liquid is filtered out from the space on the right via a filter element. Simultaneously, the space on the right can expand to the left by the counterclockwise movement of the main piston to resist increasing clogging of the filter surface by providing fresh filter material.

[0035] Preferably, the movable element can be a rotary piston configured to rotate within the housing, wherein the rotary piston can be configured to contact the housing in order to define multiple partitioned spaces within the housing, particularly by means of multiple scraper-like sections.

[0036] Here, the rotating piston can be configured as a rotor. Furthermore, the housing can be configured as a stator cavity, and the movable element can be configured as a rotor operating within this stator cavity. The rotor can be arranged in the housing such that it performs one-dimensional motion (e.g., rotation) or two-dimensional motion (e.g., rotation and displacement). For this purpose, the rotor can be eccentrically supported in the housing. Furthermore, radial grooves can be provided in the rotor, guiding blades that can be pressed outward against the inner wall of the stator. Thus, multiple spaced and separated spaces can be formed in the housing. These spaces can change their volume during rotor movement due to the arrangement of the rotor in the housing. Preferably, five spaces can be defined. Here, in addition to the circumferential surface of the housing, at least a portion of the two cover surfaces can also be configured as filter elements. Furthermore, in this case, the liquid supply section can have three inlets for the liquid to be filtered, such that these inlets cover multiple spaces, i.e., spaces that can be fed with the liquid to be filtered; preferably, these inlets cover a total of 270° of the circular cross-section of the housing. In the remaining 90°, particles removed by the filter elements can be compressed together and discharged. Thus, the filter element can perform its filtration function within the 270° section, while simultaneously being cleaned. In the remaining 90°, liquid remaining in the particles can be squeezed out, and the particles can be compressed and discharged. Alternatively, the inlet can be constructed as an arc-shaped inlet covering a specific section, preferably the 270° section.

[0037] The blades can be preloaded by a spring, thereby reliably pressing them against the inner wall surface of the housing and / or against the filter element to form a substantially fluid-tight space. Alternatively, the blades can be forcibly guided by pins in one or more control slots constructed within one or both housing covers. Furthermore, the movable element can have at least one additional resilient element, such as a spring or resilient sealing lip, to further reliably define these spaces and ensure reliable contact with the filter surface. Preferably, this resilient element can be located on the outer end of the blade and pressed against the housing. The rotor can be configured such that, depending on the structural dimensions of the housing, it rotates less than one revolution per 20 liters of filtered liquid. At common operating speeds for water-cooled household appliances, a rotation speed of approximately one revolution per minute can be obtained.

[0038] Preferably, the rotor is driven by a variable-speed motor, such as a single-phase synchronous motor. However, other types of motors are also suitable for driving the rotor. Advantageously, the rotor speed can be matched to the pressure present at the inflow point of the system using a speed-adjustable motor, allowing for a higher rotor speed to be set even when high pressure is present at the inflow point. The system can then automatically adjust itself to the optimal operating point.

[0039] Preferably, a rotary piston mechanism (as proposed by Wankel) can also be used in the system according to the invention. In this embodiment, the piston (i.e., the rotor) performs two-dimensional motion. In this case, since the piston is supported in the housing, the piston may undergo rotation and displacement. The housing can be shaped accordingly to work with the piston and satisfy the aforementioned stages of filtering, collecting particles, pressing out particles, and throwing out particles. Here, a large portion of the housing can also be configured as a filter element, and the piston movement can ensure periodic changes in the volume and functional position of the space formed in the housing.

[0040] In this document, the eccentric rotation of the movable element can be the rotation of the movable element within the housing around a point that is not the center of the housing. Preferably, the movable element can rotate around a point that changes, such as a point on a circular track or an irregular track. The spaces that are separated or isolated from each other are respectively surrounded by portions of the movable element and the housing.

[0041] Using a rotary piston offers the following advantages: it allows for continuous system operation. Furthermore, it provides uniform filter characteristics throughout the entire operating time, particularly uniform hydraulic resistance.

[0042] According to another aspect of the present invention, a water-guiding household appliance having one of the above-described systems is provided.

[0043] The same advantages mentioned above also apply to water-conducting household appliances, especially providing a particularly reliable and efficient water-conducting household appliance that is also user-friendly.

[0044] According to another aspect of the invention, a method for filtering liquids, particularly in water-conducting household appliances, is provided, comprising the steps of: providing one of the aforementioned systems; filtering particles from a liquid supplied to at least one space by discharging the liquid from the space through a filter element; moving at least one movable element such that the filter surface of the filter element is variable, thereby altering the filter surface of the filter element for use with the liquid via the at least one movable element, particularly in terms of the position and / or size of the filter surface, wherein the movement speed and / or direction of the movable element is controlled based on hydraulic resistance detected by the system.

[0045] Before the particle filtration step, the liquid supply section can be opened, allowing liquid to enter the space. Depending on the pore size of the filter element, the filtration process can begin immediately, where the particulate load is blocked by the filter element. Particles accumulate on the filter surface of the filter element and increasingly clog it. By moving the movable element, the filter surface available for the liquid can be changed, thus providing fresh and unoccupied filter surface for the liquid. In particular, the space can be expanded by moving the movable element, which also increases the filter surface available for the liquid. Furthermore, by moving at least one movable element within the housing, the space can be moved or displaced, thus maintaining the same size filter surface available for the liquid but being displaced, thereby providing new and unoccupied filter surface for the liquid. This helps to resist increasing clogging of the filter element. Therefore, the hydraulic resistance of the system can remain constant during the filtration process. In particular, the hydraulic resistance of the system can be determined based on the pressure in the space and / or the flow rate through the system.

[0046] Preferably, the method may further include the steps of: scraping the filter element with a movable element to move and / or collect particles filtered from the liquid, and pressing the collected particles together by reducing at least one space by at least one movable element.

[0047] Depending on the system used, the steps of scraping and pressing the particles together can be performed during (i.e., in parallel with) the filtration process or before / after filtration. Preferably, during the step of pressing the particles together, liquid supply to the space where the particles are pressed together is prohibited (e.g., by closing the liquid supply section with a movable element).

[0048] During the scraping step, a movable element can be moved along the filter element, thereby moving the movable element away from the filter element and collecting particles. Here, the space can be narrowed, thereby increasing the pressure within the space so that the liquid remaining in the space can be discharged through the occupied filter element. Furthermore, the movable element can push the scraped particles forward until the space becomes so small that the particles are compressed together by the movable element, the housing, and / or other movable elements. Here, liquid can be forced out of the particles and granules are formed. The granules can then be discharged from the space. The process can then restart from the filtration stage. Alternatively and preferably, these method steps can be performed cyclically when using the system described above with a rotating piston. Furthermore, a discharge step can be provided after the compression step, in which a discharger discharges the granules from the space through a discharge opening and supplies the granules to a collection container located outside the space. The collection container can be ventilated so that the granules can be further dried. Moreover, the collection container is easy for the user to use. Because of ventilation, liquid remaining in the pellets can be further released, for example through convection and evaporation, allowing users to easily and hygienically empty the collection container into the remaining waste.

[0049] Therefore, a system can be provided in which the aforementioned stages are performed sequentially or simultaneously (in parallel). Whether the stages are performed simultaneously or sequentially, the cleaning of the filter surface can be simplified and automated. Furthermore, unused filter surfaces can be created before the next filtration process, allowing the system to operate advantageously at low pressure. Additionally, stubbornly adhered particles can be removed through mechanical cleaning of the filter elements, thereby extending the service life of the filter elements. Moreover, the system's low hydraulic resistance can be consistently maintained, thus improving the overall energy efficiency of the system.

[0050] All the features and advantages described for this system are applied to this method in a similar manner, and vice versa. Attached Figure Description

[0051] Other advantages and features will become apparent from the following description of preferred embodiments of the subject matter according to the invention with reference to the accompanying drawings. Within the scope of the invention, various features of the various embodiments can be combined with each other.

[0052] The attached diagram shows:

[0053] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the system according to the first embodiment of the present invention,

[0054] Figure 2 A schematic diagram of the system according to the second embodiment of the present invention,

[0055] Figure 3 A schematic diagram of a method according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown using the second embodiment.

[0056] Figure 4 A schematic diagram of the system according to the third embodiment of the present invention.

[0057] Figure 5 Figure 4 The diagram shows the system in another method state.

[0058] Figure 6 A schematic diagram of an arrangement according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0059] Figure 7 A schematic diagram of a system according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention.

[0060] Figure 8 A schematic diagram of a system according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0061] Figure 1 A first embodiment of the system 1 according to the invention is shown in schematic cross-section. Figure 1 System 1 is shown cut across the left side along the longitudinal direction of the system. Figure 1 The system 1 is shown in cross-section or orthogonal to the right side of the image. The system 1 includes a cylindrical housing 2 with a liquid supply section 4. The liquid supply section 4 supplies liquid, including particles 9, to the housing 2. A portion of the housing 2 is configured as a filter element 3. The filter element 3 is configured to filter these particles from the liquid as it flows out of the housing 2 through the filter element 3. A space 5 is constructed within the housing 2, defined by the housing 2 and a movable element 10. The movable element 10 is configured as a piston and is capable of reciprocating in the longitudinal direction of the system 1 (see [link to documentation]). Figure 1 (The arrow in the diagram). In addition, system 1 has an additional opening 6 (discharge opening) for discharging the filtered particles 9. Discharge opening 6 is configured to discharge the filtered particles 9 from space 5. Furthermore, discharge opening 6 has a closure (not shown) that closes discharge opening 6 when not in use.

[0062] exist Figure 1The diagram shows system 1 in an intermediate position. In this intermediate position, the liquid supply unit 4 communicates with the space 5 and a portion of the filter element 3 (i.e., only with a portion of the filter surface of the filter element 3). In this intermediate position, the other portion of the filter element 3 is unusable for liquid because the movable element 10 is positioned such that the space 5 extends only over a portion of the filter element 3. Liquid is now supplied to the space 5 via the liquid supply unit 4. In this embodiment, liquid is supplied to the space 5 via the liquid supply unit 4 by means of a pump (not shown). If liquid is present in the space 5 and / or if the pressure in the space rises above a certain value, liquid begins to flow out of the space 5 through the filter element 3. The liquid discharged from the space 5 and passing through the filter element 3 is referred to hereinafter as "filtrate". As it passes through the filter element 3, particles 9 are trapped on the surface of the filter element 3 (i.e., the filter surface). The filter element 3 is thus blocked, so that as the filter element 3 becomes increasingly occupied, a higher pressure is required in the space 5 to force the liquid through the filter element 3. To counteract this situation, the movable element 10 can be moved, thereby providing a larger filtration surface of the filter element 3 for the liquid to use. Figure 1 In the embodiment shown, the movable element 10 thus moves to the right. This also expands the volume of the space 5. Furthermore, fresh, unblocked filter surfaces can be provided to the liquid to be filtered. Thus, the liquid can pass through the filter element 3 with less resistance. In this embodiment, the movement of the movable element 10 is controlled such that the pressure in the space 5 remains substantially constant. For this purpose, in this embodiment, a pressure sensor (not shown) is provided in the system 1, which can measure the pressure in the space 5 in real time. If the movable element 10 is located at the very end of the filter element 3, there is no additional fresh filter surface available for the movable element 10 to provide to the liquid in the space 5. In this embodiment, the dimensions of the system 1 are determined such that the filter element 3 and the space 5 are sufficient for the liquid to be filtered. Therefore, the system 1 of this embodiment is used, for example, to filter alkali solution pumped from or circulated from an alkali container. If the liquid supply has stopped, the movable element 10 moves in the opposite direction (in... Figure 1 (From left to right) The movable element 10 moves along the filter element 3 and collects the particles 9 located there and pushes these particles forward. This is achieved by the movable element 10 scraping the filter element 3 with scraper-like sections arranged on the movable element 10. Here, this is a scraper in this embodiment. The scraper is a scraping body with a defined edge that contacts the filter element 3. This edge has a rubber lip. In another embodiment not shown, the edge has multiple bristles. The movable element 10 pushes the filtered particles 9 forward until the movable element 10 reaches one end of the housing 2 (in Figure 1(The far left). There, the movable element 10 presses the particles 9 against the wall of the housing 2. The particles 9 are thus pressed together and compressed. Therefore, the liquid remaining in the particles 9 is expelled. In this case, the liquid flows through a drainage device (not shown) to the filter element 3 and is discharged from the space 5. Due to the pressure, granular material is generated from the particles 9. After expulsion, the discharge opening 6 opens, allowing the granular material to be discharged from the housing 2. For cases where the granular material does not fall out of the housing 2 on its own, a discharge device 21 is provided ( Figure 1 (Not shown in the image), this ejector can push particulate material out of the housing 2. Subsequently, the movable element 10 returns to the intermediate position and is ready for a new filtration process.

[0063] Figure 2 A second embodiment of the invention is shown. (As in...) Figure 1 Like in the middle, in Figure 2 The second embodiment is also shown in two schematic cross-sections. The second embodiment corresponds substantially to the first embodiment, the structural difference being that a second movable element 11 is provided in the housing 2, and the discharge opening 6 is located on the other side of the filter element 3. The second movable element 11 has the same configuration as the first movable element 10. Both the first movable element 10 and the second movable element 11 are movable (see [reference]). Figure 2 (The arrow in the image). Furthermore, the operation of the second embodiment differs from that of the first embodiment. (See reference...) Figure 3 The operation of the second implementation method is described.

[0064] Figure 3 Showing the use Figure 2 The schematic flow diagram of system 1 according to the second embodiment is shown in the figure. Figure 3 In the first illustration shown, space 5 is connected to a portion of liquid supply unit 4 and filter element 3. Liquid is supplied to space 5 through liquid supply unit 4 and fills the space. As in the first embodiment, when liquid is supplied to space 5 and / or when it is present in space 5 or exceeds a certain pressure, the liquid is filtered through filter element 3.

[0065] exist Figure 3 As can be seen in the second illustration, the particles 9 filtered from the liquid increasingly clog or occupy the filter surface of the filter element 3. As more and more particles occupy the filter surface of the filter element 3, the first movable element 10 ( Figure 3 The right movable element in the filter element moves to the right. This provides the liquid with a fresh, unused filter surface of the filter element 3.

[0066] exist Figure 3In the third illustration shown, the filter surface of filter element 3 is mostly occupied by particles 9, so that liquid from space 5 can only pass through filter element 3 under high pressure (i.e., it can be squeezed through). Therefore, the second movable element 11 ( Figure 3 The movable element on the left side of the space also moves to the right. This separates the liquid supply section 4 from the space 5, so that the space 5 is only connected to the filter element 3, and the space 5 can no longer be supplied with liquid to be filtered. In addition, the second movable element 11 scrapes the filter element 3, so that the particles 9 deposited on the filter surface of the filter element 3 are moved and collected by the second movable element 11 and moved to the deposition section in the space 5.

[0067] exist Figure 3 In the fourth figure shown, the second movable element 11, together with the forward-pushed particle 9, reaches the first movable element 10, causing the particle 9 to be pressed together between the first movable element 10 and the second movable element 11. Thus, the particle 9 is compressed and forms granular material. In this case, the space 5 is in communication with the filter element 3, allowing the liquid squeezed out from the particle 9 to be discharged directly from the space 5 via the filter element 3.

[0068] exist Figure 3 In the fifth figure shown, the first movable element 10 and the second movable element 11 move simultaneously with the compressed particles 9 (granular material) to the discharge opening 6. During this movement, the space 5 remains the same size. The discharge opening 6 is then opened, and the granular material is discharged from the space 5 into the collection container 20 by means of the discharger 21.

[0069] In this embodiment, the collection container 20 is arranged in a location easily accessible to the user on / in the water-conducting household appliance. Furthermore, the collection container 20 has a ventilation device to allow for further drying of the granular material contained therein. In another embodiment, not shown, the collection container 20 has a heating device that, in particular, utilizes residual heat generated during the use of the water-conducting household appliance to heat the granular material, thereby further accelerating the drying of the granular material.

[0070] In summary, like the system of the first embodiment, the system 1 of the second embodiment is configured to process four different stages. In the first stage, the liquid is filtered by the filter element 3. In the second stage, the filter element 3 is scraped by one of the movable elements 11. In the third stage, the scraped-off particles 9 are squeezed. In the fourth stage, the squeezed particles 9 are discharged from the space 5.

[0071] In another embodiment, not shown, the first movable element 10 and the second movable element 11 move during the first stage (filtering the liquid) such that the space 5 formed between them remains the same size. This provides fresh, unused filter surface for the liquid to use while simultaneously scraping the filter element 3. In the remainder, this embodiment corresponds to the second embodiment shown above.

[0072] exist Figure 4 The third embodiment of the present invention is shown in the figure. Figure 4 The upper part shown in the figure illustrates a cross section orthogonal to the axis of rotation of the movable element 10 passing through the system 1. Figure 4 The lower part shown in the figure illustrates section AA. In this embodiment, the above-mentioned stages can be performed cyclically and in parallel with each other (i.e., simultaneously). System 1 of this embodiment is based on a rotary piston machine scheme. More precisely, System 1 of this embodiment is a blade structure.

[0073] In this embodiment, the housing 2 forms a stator cavity in which a rotor (movable element 10) operates. The axis of rotation of the movable element 10 is eccentrically arranged in the housing 2. Radial slots are constructed in the movable element 10 in which blades 12 run (here, five slots with blades 12). The blades 12 are pressed outward against the inner wall of the housing 2. In order to press the blades 12 against the housing 2, in this embodiment, the blades 12 are forcibly guided by pins in control slots 13 located in one or both housing covers. This also allows for relatively easy addition of other method steps, such as retracting the blades 12 as the discharger 21 sweeps. Furthermore, the blades 12 have a resilient element (not shown) at their outer ends to ensure reliable contact with the housing 2. This ensures that the spaces 5 are spaced apart from each other and are substantially fluid-tight. In one embodiment, the resilient element has a resilient sealing lip and / or a spring. In another embodiment (not shown), the blades 12 are preloaded by means of a spring and thus pressed against the housing 2.

[0074] This results in multiple spaces 5 distributed around the periphery of the movable element 10 and separated from each other. The position and volume of these spaces are individually and sequentially subjected to the stages described in conjunction with the above embodiments by the rotation of the movable element 10 (rotor). Here, for all spaces 5, these stages are performed in parallel with a corresponding phase offset (in this case, 72° for five spaces 5). The circumferential surface of the housing 2 is almost entirely constructed as a filter element 3. In addition to the circumferential surface, most of the two cover surfaces are also constructed as filter elements 3. Here, the filter element 3 itself is rigid enough to reliably conform to the corresponding shape of the housing 2 during operation. For this purpose, the filter element 3 of this embodiment has a sieve made of a solid material, such as metal or plastic. In another embodiment, not shown, the filter element 3 has a soft filter material, such as yarn, and therefore the filter element 3 of this embodiment additionally has a support structure to support the filter element.

[0075] In addition, the liquid supply section 4 has three inlet openings for the liquid to be filtered. These inlet openings cover a section of the circular housing 2 with a total size of approximately 270°, allowing the system 1 to perform filtration and scraping functions within this 270° (stage one and stage two). In the remaining approximately 90°, the particles 9 are expelled and the resulting granular material is discharged (stage three and stage four). The inlet openings can also be combined into a single arc-shaped inlet section.

[0076] In this embodiment, the movable element 10 operates relatively slowly and has a rotational speed of approximately one revolution per minute. The movable element 10 is driven by a single-phase synchronous motor 30. In another embodiment, the speed (i.e., rotational speed) of the movable element 10 is set and adjusted based on the pressure present at the inflow section (i.e., upstream of the liquid supply section). Therefore, when the pressure in the inflow pipe leading to space 5 is high, the movable element 10 rotates rapidly. Thus, the rotational speed of the movable element 10 can be set such that a predetermined pressure exists in the inflow pipe.

[0077] exist Figure 4 The diagram shows the intermediate state of system 1. Here, the liquid supply unit 4 is connected to two of the five spaces 5. The remaining three spaces 5 are disconnected from the liquid supply unit. Figure 4 As can be seen in the diagram shown in the lower center, the cover of housing 2 is also constructed as a filter element. An electric motor 30 is also shown.

[0078] exist Figure 5 The image shows a location in another position. Figure 4 The system. More precisely, in Figure 5 In the middle, the movable element 10 has rotated counterclockwise (see...). Figure 5(The arrow in the image). The liquid supply section 4 is now connected to the three spaces 5. As a result, the filter surface of the filter element 3 used for liquid supply has changed (i.e., the filter surface used for liquid supply has been enlarged and shifted).

[0079] In another embodiment, not shown, the system is based on a Wankel motor (rotary piston rotor engine). In this case, the majority of the housing is configured as a filter element. The piston rotating within the housing serves as the movable element 10. The housing 2 is configured such that it, together with the movable element 10, forms a space 5 within the housing 2, allowing the system 1 to perform stages one through four as described above.

[0080] exist Figure 6 The diagram schematically shows two cross-sections of the filtrate collector 7 and the system 1 according to one of the above embodiments. The filtrate collector 7 is a housing that at least partially surrounds the system 1. In an embodiment not shown, the filtrate collector is the flushing housing of a washing machine. The system 1 is arranged in the filtrate collector 7 such that the filtrate flowing out of the filter element 3 (see...) Figure 6 The filtrate (as indicated by the arrow in the image) is collected by the filtrate collector 7 and discharged in a defined manner. The filtrate collector 7 can, for example, supply the filtrate to another process within a washing machine. Figure 6 In the upper part of the diagram, the filtrate collector 7 is open on its upper side, allowing free liquid flow (Freispiegelabfluss) at the filtrate collector 7, that is, there is ambient pressure in the filtrate collector 7.

[0081] In contrast, Figure 6 The filtrate collector 7, shown in the lower center, is closed on its upper side, completely surrounding the system 1. Furthermore, an overpressure relative to ambient pressure exists within the filtrate collector 7, causing the filtrate flowing from the system 1 to exit under pressure (pressure outflow). Moreover, the filtrate collector is constructed to withstand pressure exceeding ambient pressure. For this purpose, the filtrate collector is made of a suitable plastic. In another embodiment, the filtrate collector has seven reinforcing elements, making it even more robust.

[0082] Furthermore, each of the aforementioned filtrate collectors 7 may have a funnel-shaped outlet 8 configured to discharge the filtrate in a defined manner. Here, "discharge in a defined manner" means that the filtrate collector discharges the filtrate in a predetermined direction. The outlet 8 may be integrally constructed with the filtrate collector. In this embodiment, the filtrate collector has a cylindrical shape, but it may also have any other shape. The filtrate collector is preferably made of plastic.

[0083] exist Figure 7The fourth embodiment of the invention is schematically shown in cross-section. System 1 of this embodiment is based on a dual-acting cylinder design. Here, system 1 has a liquid supply section 4 in the middle of the housing 2. A third movable element 14, acting as a main piston, divides the internal space of the housing 2 into two spaces 5 (on the left and right sides of the movable element 14). If the movable element 14 is on the right side of the liquid supply section 4, filtration occurs on its left side (stage one). If the movable element 14 moves further to the right, the space 5 on the right side of the movable element 14 is scraped (stage two), and a fresh, unoccupied filter surface is created on the left side of the filter element 3. At the right end, the movable element 14 presses the particles 9 against the first movable element 10. The particles are thus squeezed and compressed into granular material (stage three). The discharger 21 ejects the granular material from the space 5 and supplies it to the collection container (…). Figure 7 (Not shown in the image). The same process occurs in the space 5 to the left of the movable element 14. For this purpose, the system 1 of this embodiment has a second movable element 11, which corresponds to the first movable element 10.

[0084] Figure 8 The fifth embodiment of the invention is shown. In this embodiment, the cylindrical housing has a paddle-shaped main piston (first movable element) 10, which performs a circular motion coaxial with the housing, and a second paddle-shaped piston (second movable element) 11, which also performs a circular motion coaxial with the housing 2. The housing 2 is almost entirely constructed as a filter element 3. In the intermediate state, the discharge opening 6 ( Figure 8 The lower center section is closed by the second movable element 11. The first movable element 10 rotates counterclockwise (see...). Figure 8 The arrow in the diagram moves slowly and is located to the left of the liquid supply section 4. The liquid supply section 4 is thus connected to the space 5 to the right of the first movable element 10. In the right space 5, the liquid supplied to the space 5 is filtered (stage one), wherein the liquid flows out of the system 1 via the filter element 3. At the same time, the right space 5 expands to the left by the first movable element 10 moving counterclockwise, so as to resist the increasing occupancy of the filter surface of the filter element 3 by providing fresh filter surface of the filter element 3. In the left chamber where compression is also performed, the particles 9 that may be present on the filter surface of the filter element 3 are moved (scraped) (stage two) and compressed in conjunction with the second movable element 11 (stage three), thereby squeezing liquid out of the particles 9 and compacting (compressing) the particles 9. When the particles 9 are compressed as much as possible, the second movable element 11 moves away from the discharge opening 6 and releases the discharge opening to discharge the particulate matter (stage four). The discharger 21, not shown in detail here, supports this process.

[0085] The second movable element 11 is preferably moved passively, i.e., the second movable element is pushed by the first movable element 10 via a particle 9 that may be located between the flanks of the two elements. The second movable element 11 has a return spring that operates, for example symmetrically, which moves the second movable element 11 back to the intermediate position, i.e., with the closed discharge opening 6, when the first movable element 10 retracts.

[0086] By continuously, periodically, or as needed driving the first movable element 10, combined with the movement of the second movable element 11 and the activation of the discharger 21, the system 1 operates virtually continuously without interruption through oscillating motion essentially between the two end stops. This embodiment is mechanically particularly simple in construction and has a very good filter surface-to-structure volume ratio.

[0087] List of reference numerals

[0088] 1 System

[0089] 2. Shell

[0090] 3. Filter elements

[0091] 4. Liquid Supply Department

[0092] 5 spaces

[0093] 6. Other openings

[0094] 7. Filtrate Collector

[0095] 8 Exports

[0096] 9 particles

[0097] 10 First movable element

[0098] 11 Second movable element

[0099] 12 blades

[0100] 13 Control slots

[0101] 14 Third movable element

[0102] 20 Collection Containers

[0103] 21 Discharge device

[0104] 30 Electric Motors

Claims

1. A system (1) for filtering liquids in a water-conducting household appliance, comprising: A housing (2) having at least one movable element (10) inside it, the movable element together with the housing (2) defining at least one substantially fluid-tight space (5). A liquid supply unit (4) configured to supply liquid to the at least one space (5). The control unit is configured to control movable elements based on the hydraulic resistance of the system, which is determined based on the pressure within the space (5) and / or the pressure in the liquid supply section (4) that supplies liquid to the space. At least a portion of the housing (2) is configured as a filter element (3), thereby enabling the liquid to be discharged from the at least one space (5) via the filter surface of the filter element (3). The filter element (3) is configured to filter particles (9) from the liquid. The filter surface of the filter element (3) is changeable via the at least one movable element (10), so that the filter surface of the filter element (3) for use with the liquid can be changed via the at least one movable element (10), and The at least one movable element (10) is driven by an actuator or a servo motor.

2. The system (1) according to claim 1, wherein, The at least one movable element (10) is configured to move along the filter element (3) during its movement and to move from the filter surface and / or collect particles (9) blocked by the filter element (3).

3. The system (1) according to claim 2, wherein, The movable element (10) has a scraper-shaped section.

4. The system (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, The housing (2) has an additional closable opening (6) through which filtered particles (9) can be discharged.

5. The system (1) according to claim 4, wherein, The system (1) also includes an ejector (21) configured to discharge filtered particles (9) from the space (5) through the additional sealable opening (6).

6. The system (1) according to any one of claims 2, 3, and 5, wherein, The movable element (10) is arranged and / or configured such that particles (9) moved and / or collected by the movable element (10) can be pressed together by the combined action of the movable element (10) with the housing (2) and / or with another movable element (11) so as to expel liquid from the collected particles (9).

7. The system (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 3 and 5, wherein, The at least one movable element (10) is configured as a piston for reciprocating motion in the housing (2).

8. The system (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 3 and 5, wherein, The movable element (10) is a rotary piston configured to rotate within the housing (2). The rotary piston configuration is designed to contact the housing so as to define multiple partitioned spaces (5) within the housing (2) by means of multiple scraper-shaped sections.

9. The system (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 3 and 5. in, The filter surface of the filter element (3) is variable via the at least one movable element (10), so that the filter surface of the filter element (3) for use with the liquid can be changed in terms of position and / or size via the at least one movable element (10).

10. A water-guiding household appliance having a system (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 9.

11. A method for filtering liquids in a water-conducting household appliance, wherein, The method includes the following steps: Provide a system (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 9; Particles (9) are filtered out from liquid supplied to at least one space (5) by passing the liquid out of the space (5) through a filter element (3); At least one movable element (10) is moved so that the filter surface of the filter element (3) is variable, and the filter surface of the filter element (3) for use with the liquid is changed by the at least one movable element (10).

12. The method according to claim 11, wherein, The filter surface of the filter element (3) for use with the liquid is changed in terms of position and / or size by the at least one movable element (10).

13. The method according to claim 11 or 12, wherein, The movement speed and / or direction of the movable element (10) are controlled based on the hydraulic resistance detected by the system (1).

14. The method according to claim 11 or 12, wherein, The method further includes the following steps: The filter element (3) is scraped by the movable element (10) to move and / or collect particles (9) filtered from the liquid; and The collected particles (9) are pressed together by means of reducing the at least one space (5) by means of the at least one movable element (10).

Images