Washing machine with a circulation pumping system and method for operating a washing machine

Abstract

The invention relates to a laundry washing machine having a lye container, a drum arranged in the lye container for receiving the laundry, a heating device, a drive motor, a water supply device, and a control or regulation device, wherein a substantially cylindrical filter insert (8) has a screw closure (7) to be opened on a first end (15), a pump-out seal (17) for sealing a pump-out pressure chamber (11) with respect to a substantially cylindrical suction chamber (10) on a second end (16), and a circulation pumping opening (9) to the circulation pumping pressure chamber (12) on the periphery of the filter insert, wherein the periphery has a flap (18) surrounding the circulation pumping opening (9), which is surrounded by a labyrinth seal (20) and seals the circulation pumping pressure chamber (12) with respect to the suction chamber (10).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a washing machine with a circulating pumping system and a method for operating the washing machine. More particularly, this invention relates to a washing machine comprising: an alkali solution container, a drum arranged in the alkali solution container for receiving laundry (washed items), a heating device, a drive motor, a water supply device, and a control or regulating device (Steuer- (bzw.Regeleinrichtung), wherein such a circulating pumping system includes a pump housing having a pump outlet inlet, a circulating pumping inlet, and a suction inlet, wherein a pumping motor, a circulating pumping motor, and a screw-on closure to be opened are arranged on the pump housing, wherein a substantially cylindrical filter insert removable from a washing machine is installed on the screw-on closure, the filter insert having at least one opening along its periphery for the passage of an aqueous liquid, thereby the pump housing including a substantially cylindrical suction chamber, a pumping pressure chamber, and a circulating pumping pressure chamber, wherein the pumping motor is arranged to deliver an aqueous liquid from the substantially cylindrical suction chamber through the pumping pressure chamber and the pumping outlet inlet into the pump outlet line, and the circulating pumping motor is arranged to deliver an aqueous liquid from the substantially cylindrical suction chamber through the circulating pumping pressure chamber and the circulating pumping inlet into the circulating pumping line. Background Technology

[0002] There is an increasing number of washing machines that allow for higher loads of laundry. To better accommodate these increased loads, modern large-capacity washing machines are typically equipped with a circulation pump system that delivers detergent alkali more efficiently and quickly to the laundry. This allows for faster and more efficient rinsing during the washing phase. Finally, due to new appliance labeling requirements (EN19) regarding washing performance and energy efficiency, modern large-capacity washing machines are equipped with circulation pump systems. This allows for a low detergent alkali level in the washing machine (or in the alkali container) for the washing process, enabling the detergent alkali to be quickly brought to the desired washing temperature with minimal heating power from existing heating devices, even with a low water level in the alkali container, thus meeting labeling requirements regarding energy consumption, for example. Here, even at such a liquid level in the alkali container, it is possible to guide the washing alkali into the washing items by means of a circulating pumping system: at such a liquid level, it is impossible to rinse the washing items without a circulation system, because the washing drum is not yet immersed in the "dead liquid" (the washing alkali in the alkali container) at such a low liquid level, and therefore it is impossible to rinse the washing items by the diffusion process from the outside to the inside of the washing items.

[0003] Publication DE 10 2016 210 320 A1 discloses a method for operating a washing machine, the washing machine comprising: an alkali container, a drum arranged in the alkali container for receiving laundry, a drive motor, at least one water supply device typically used for supplying water into the alkali container, a circulation pumping system having an alkali pump and circulation pumping lines, and a control device storing at least one operating program.

[0004] Publication DE 10 2018 206 364 A1 discloses a household appliance for caring for laundry, comprising an alkali container, within which a laundry drum configured to receive laundry is arranged, and a pump system including a circulating pump by means of which fluid can be conveyed from a lower region of the alkali container. In one embodiment, the pump system includes a drain pump, wherein the circulating pump and the drain pump are arranged in a common pump housing of the pump system. In another embodiment, the inlet-side chamber of the pump housing has a sealing element, wherein, after the sealing element is opened, a filter is accessible and / or removable from the chamber for maintenance.

[0005] Publication DE 10 2016 212 478 A1 discloses a laundry care device with a circulating pumping system, the circulating pumping system comprising a suction chamber, wherein the pump has a filter and / or foreign matter trap for filtering impurities from the washing liquid, and wherein the suction chamber has a filter inlet opening for introducing the filter into the suction chamber. The filter has a filter insert disposed inside the suction chamber and a filter cover configured to seal the filter inlet opening for fluid tightness.

[0006] A circulating pumping system (also known as a recirculating pump system) typically comprises a discharge pump (empty pump) and a circulating pump (also known as a recirculating pump), which are integrated into a common pump housing. The pump housing is usually configured such that both pumps use a common suction chamber, in which a foreign matter trap or lint screen is integrated to filter foreign matter and / or lint from the flow on the suction side and to partially enable access to the impellers of the discharge motor and the circulating pumping motor, thereby eliminating the possibility of impeller blockage caused by foreign matter. In design, the discharge pump is typically axially oriented, while the circulating pump is typically radially positioned. The geometry of the two pumps in the common suction chamber is preferably implemented to provide a passage to the impeller of the discharge motor. This passage should be very well sealed. Typically, the axially oriented pump housing is axially closed and sealed by a screw-on cap. Furthermore, due to the axial screwing, the filter insert integrated into the suction chamber is simultaneously pre-tightened axially, ensuring a good seal between the pumping pressure chamber and the suction chamber during pumping. This seal must be functionally reliable, especially for the discharge pump, because there are VDE requirements related to the flow and maintenance of the flow, particularly for the discharge pump, throughout the washing machine's lifespan.

[0007] Certainly, sealing the radially arranged pressure chamber (circulating pump pressure chamber) of the circulating pump relative to the suction chamber is essential. That is, a gap typically exists between the removable filter insert and the pump housing, even if attempts are made to minimize this gap during manufacturing. This gap is a result of the manufacturing process of the pump housing and filter insert, which are typically produced by injection molding with predetermined tolerances. Without such a seal, this could lead to significant leakage flow, which could make controlling the washing process, especially the circulation of aqueous liquids in the circulating pump system, very difficult or even impossible. Specifically, the aqueous liquid flow should preferably enter the drum at a specific speed and angle. Furthermore, the hydraulic separation of the suction chamber relative to the circulating pump pressure chamber cannot be optimally utilized for the continued development of improved washing methods in terms of hydraulically adjustable operating points and potential foreign matter adhesion, because excessive leakage flow occurs with simple gap sealing. The leakage flow should be as small as possible within the aforementioned system-determined gap. Summary of the Invention

[0008] Against this backdrop, the objective of the present invention is to provide a washing machine with a circulating pumping system, which is particularly suitable for large-volume loading of laundry, wherein improved control of the circulating pumping system enables better filling of the laundry with an aqueous liquid (especially a detergent alkali) and improved cleaning of the laundry.

[0009] According to the present invention, this task is solved by a washing machine having the corresponding features of the present invention and a method for operating the washing machine. Preferred embodiments of the washing machine according to the present invention are illustrated in the technical solutions of the present invention. Preferred embodiments of the method according to the present invention correspond to preferred embodiments of the washing machine according to the present invention and vice versa, even if this is not explicitly emphasized herein.

[0010] The present invention relates to a washing machine comprising: an alkaline solution container, a drum arranged in the alkaline solution container for receiving laundry, a heating device, a drive motor, a water supply device, and a control or regulating device. This circulating pumping system includes a pump housing having a pump outlet pipe, a circulating pumping pipe, and a suction pipe. A pump outlet motor, a circulating pumping motor, and a screw-on closure are arranged on the pump housing. A filter insert removable from the washing machine is mounted on the screw-on closure. The filter insert has at least one opening along its periphery for the passage of an aqueous liquid. The pump housing comprises a substantially cylindrical suction chamber, a pump outlet pressure chamber, and a circulating pumping pressure chamber. The pump outlet motor is arranged such that it draws the aqueous liquid from the substantially cylindrical suction chamber, a pump outlet pressure chamber, and a circulating pumping pressure chamber. The cylindrical suction chamber is supplied to the discharge line via a pumping pressure chamber and a pumping connector. The circulating pump motor is arranged such that it supplies aqueous liquid from the substantially cylindrical suction chamber through a filter insert, via the circulating pumping pressure chamber and the circulating pumping connector, into the circulating pumping line. The filter insert has a screw-on closure at a first end, a pumping seal at a second end for sealing the pumping pressure chamber relative to the substantially cylindrical suction chamber, and a circulating pumping opening on its periphery (usually orthogonal to it) leading to the circulating pumping pressure chamber. This periphery has a schild surrounding the circulating pumping opening, which is surrounded by a labyrinth seal and seals the circulating pumping pressure chamber relative to the suction chamber. Preferably, the schild is surrounded by a labyrinth seal outside the connection area. Generally, i.e., for stability, the schild is connected to the rest of the filter insert via the connection area.

[0011] Therefore, at least one opening along the periphery of the filter insert is here a circulation pumping opening. Generally, the filter insert is configured such that it has three openings for the passage of aqueous liquids (i.e., one opening on the suction side and two openings on the pressure side) to supply the circulation pump and the evacuation pump (i.e., one inlet from the suction chamber and two outlets or discharge ports leading to the pressure chamber).

[0012] Pump housings are generally almost cylindrical except for the demolding ramp, while filter inserts do not necessarily have to be cylindrical in their external geometry.

[0013] According to the present invention, a pump housing is used that incorporates both pumping and circulating pumping functions. This enables a particularly compact configuration of the circulating pumping system and relatively small installation space requirements. Such a housing can be manufactured particularly well through plastic injection molding.

[0014] The filter insert, removable from the washing machine, can be detachably mounted on the screw-on closure to be opened. In principle, it is possible for the closure and filter insert to be configured as a single piece and, for example, manufactured as a one-piece injection molded part. However, simultaneously sealing the circulation pump chamber and the pump-out pressure chamber may be difficult or even impossible because the filter insert, molded onto it, must be rotated along with the closure cap when screwing it on, and therefore, by its very nature, it is impossible to use a labyrinth seal.

[0015] During the circulation pumping stage, the aqueous liquid is transported from the essentially cylindrical suction chamber through the circulation pumping pressure chamber and the circulation pumping connector into the circulation pumping pipeline, which is connected to an inlet leading to the drum, so that the circulated aqueous liquid ultimately reaches the laundry in the drum.

[0016] Generally speaking, control or regulation devices are set up to achieve the circulation or pumping out of aqueous liquids.

[0017] In its broadest sense, a filter insert is a cylindrical filter insert whose external dimensions or geometry are configured to allow it to be unobstructedly fed into and removed from the substantially cylindrical suction chamber by the user of the washing machine. Here, the filter insert generally has structural elements that contribute to its mechanical stability and enable its fixed position within the cylindrical suction chamber. While the pump housing is almost cylindrical, disregarding the draft angle, the filter insert does not necessarily have to be cylindrical in its external geometry.

[0018] In contrast, during the pumping phase, the aqueous liquid is transported from the cylindrical suction chamber through the pumping pressure chamber and the pumping connector to the pumping line, which is generally connected to the wastewater system so that the pumped aqueous liquid can be removed.

[0019] In a preferred embodiment of the washing machine, a sheet formed on the filter insert has a connecting area through which the sheet is directly or indirectly connected to a first end of the substantially cylindrical filter insert.

[0020] The plate-like element serves to improve the seal between the circulating pump pressure chamber and the suction chamber, and should also ensure accessibility to the circulating pump pressure chamber and, consequently, to the impeller of the circulating pump. Therefore, generally, the shape of the plate-like element is adapted to the circulating pump pressure chamber to achieve good flow guidance. In a preferred embodiment of the washing machine according to the invention, the plate-like element is therefore concave to seal the convex circulating pump pressure chamber relative to the cylindrical suction chamber. Thus, the plate-like element can be concave to seal the convex circulating pump pressure chamber.

[0021] According to the invention, the sheet-like member used to close (or seal) the circulating pump pressure chamber is surrounded on its peripheral side by a labyrinth seal, particularly outside the connection area. Generally, the labyrinth seal is a non-contact seal, for which the sealing effect is based on the extension of the flow path (i.e., typically achieved by flow deflection through the gap to be sealed), thereby significantly increasing flow resistance. This can be achieved, for example, by providing one or more stages along the flow path (in this case, an aqueous liquid), causing the flow to deflect multiple times within the labyrinth seal (or staged seal). The labyrinth seal preferably has at least one stage, more preferably two or three stages.

[0022] According to the invention, the normally circumferential gap between the filter insert and the pump housing is widened such that this gap is covered by a sheet-like element on the filter insert (which may also be referred to as a flange or overlap) and, if necessary, a supplementary mating element on the filter housing. This generally radially projecting sheet-like element above the axially extending gap is preferably as parallel as possible to the radially established pressure gradient in the circulating pump pressure chamber. The filter insert installed according to the invention can cause a large-scale diversion of the flow for leakage flow, thereby increasing pressure loss and achieving a reduction in leakage flow.

[0023] A preferred embodiment of the invention is a washing machine in which the angle α between the pump motor shaft and the filter insert axis is in the range of >0° to 30°, for example, in the range of 3° to 15°. Particularly preferred is that the angle α is chosen such that static friction between the disc spring (i.e., the sealing element for the circulating pump pressure chamber) typically used in the filter insert and the pump housing is eliminated.

[0024] This embodiment of the invention achieves further improvement in the sealing by the sheet member according to the invention through axial pressing force applied to the pump outlet seal (especially when the pump outlet seal is configured as a disc spring). This is because the "slippage" of the filter insert toward the pump outlet pressure chamber on the partition wall allows for better sealing of the circulating pumping pressure chamber by the sheet member on the filter insert, which better seals the gap determined by the principle. Therefore, a higher pressure loss can be generated, which further constrains (or limits) leakage flow. To achieve this pressing force for better sealing of the circulating pumping pressure chamber, the filter insert can be axially tensioned relative to the pump housing with respect to the circulating pump (or circulating pumping motor), thereby achieving radial sliding of the filter insert toward the circulating pumping pressure chamber with respect to the suction chamber. This slippage of the filter insert toward the pump outlet pressure chamber on the boundary wall of the pump housing can be achieved, especially when the angle α between the pump motor shaft and the filter insert axis is in the range of 3° to 15°, wherein the selected angle α depends on the material used, i.e., whether it is plastic in contact with each other or metal against plastic. If the self-locking (static friction) between the filter insert and the pump housing is released, the filter insert in the suction chamber (i.e., in the pump housing) can be radially pressed against the circulating pump pressure chamber in order to seal it as much as possible.

[0025] Similarly, a washing machine according to the invention is preferred in which the angle β between the circulation pump motor shaft and the filter insert shaft is in the range of 70° to 110° and preferably in the range of 85° to 95°.

[0026] Preferably, the pump discharge seal is a disc spring, which typically acts axially to seal the axially or nearly axially arranged pressure chamber of the discharge pump (i.e., the pump discharge motor). In some embodiments of the invention, the axial seal between the common suction chamber and the pump discharge pressure chamber is achieved by the elastic deformation of the disc spring on the filter insert. In these embodiments, the invention addresses a novel structural sealing principle that minimizes leakage flow for the circulating pump pressure chamber, which is typically radially arranged on the common suction chamber of the circulating pumping system and conditionally accessible to the user. This principle involves a hydraulic short circuit from the pressure chamber to the suction chamber, requiring a dual transmission of leakage flow between the pump housing and the pump filter insert.

[0027] In principle, the filter insert can be configured as a lint filter and / or a foreign object trap. As a lint filter, the filter insert can be configured as a sieve, particularly useful for blocking hair, lint, and the like. Additionally or alternatively, the filter insert can be configured as a foreign object trap, used to block larger foreign objects such as coins or hairpins, or smaller objects like these.

[0028] In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the filter insert is configured as a foreign matter trap. In another preferred embodiment of the invention, a lint filter is connected in front of the suction chamber.

[0029] Furthermore, a preferred embodiment of the invention is a washing machine in which the filter insert has at least one guide strip parallel to its axis. This achieves stable, fixed positioning of the filter insert, which contributes to optimal sealing between the circulating pump pressure chamber and the suction chamber.

[0030] Generally, the pumping motor and the circulating pumping motor are electric motors. Preferably, the pumping motor and the circulating pumping motor are, for example, brushless direct current motors (BLDC). These drives, which are variable in speed and oriented in rotational direction, allow the current pump state to be identified by controllingly detecting operating parameters (e.g., speed and torque). Thus, for example, it can be detected whether the pump is pumping a full delivery flow or, for example, siphoning air, where the delivery flow is interrupted and the pump is merely building up a pressure column and therefore operating to some extent with ventilation on the suction side. Here, it can be determined that the pumping motor is pumping a two-phase washing alkali solution with reduced density under a constant, decreasing power demand.

[0031] Finally, a preferred type of washing machine according to the invention is one in which the suction pipe has a larger diameter than the discharge pipe and the circulation pump pipe. Of course, this size ratio (or diameter ratio) can be configured differently.

[0032] The washing machine according to the invention has a heating device. In a preferred embodiment of the washing machine according to the invention, the washing machine has a heating device for heating an aqueous liquid and a temperature sensor for measuring the temperature of the aqueous liquid in an alkali container. Generally, the heating device is arranged in the lower part of the alkali container. Alternatively, the heating device can be integrated into the water path of the circulating pumping system, thereby being provided, for example, in the pump or the circulating pumping line on the pressure side, or in the air guide circuit or evaporation / steam unit of the washing machine. This has the advantage that space for the heating device can be saved in the alkali container, thereby reducing the amount of free liquid or even dead liquid in the alkali container. Thus, the amount of aqueous liquid required for the treatment of the laundry can be advantageously reduced, so that less heat energy is also used to achieve comparable temperature levels. The heating device and the temperature sensor can be advantageously controlled (or analyzed) by a control device, thereby enabling temperature regulation.

[0033] The water supply device can be, for example, a fresh water inlet controlled by a valve in terms of time, wherein the valve is preferably controlled by a control device. Particularly preferably, the fresh water inlet line leading to the lye container is additionally equipped with a flow sensor for determining the volume of fresh water introduced. By means of a pressure sensor to additionally detect the liquid level in the lye container, the water supply for the batch of laundry used can be precisely pre-set (or adjusted).

[0034] In another preferred embodiment of the washing machine according to the invention, the washing machine additionally includes a loading sensor for determining the amount of detergent in the drum. The loading sensor is advantageously arranged on the lye container and connected to a control device. Therefore, according to the invention, the control device, when controlling the circulation pumping system, takes into account the load amount and, if possible, the type of loading of the drum with laundry.

[0035] Furthermore, the subject matter of this invention relates to a method for operating a washing machine, the washing machine comprising: an alkaline solution container, a drum arranged in the alkaline solution container for receiving laundry, a heating device, a drive motor, a water supply device, and a control or regulating device, wherein such a circulation pumping system includes a pump housing having a pump outlet pipe, a circulation pumping pipe, and a suction pipe, wherein a pump outlet motor, a circulation pumping motor, and a screw-on closure to be opened are arranged on the pump housing, and a substantially cylindrical filter insert removable from the washing machine is installed on the screw-on closure, the filter insert having at least one opening along its periphery for the passage of an aqueous liquid, such that the pump housing includes a substantially cylindrical suction chamber, a pump outlet pressure chamber, and a circulation pumping pressure chamber, and wherein the pump outlet motor is arranged in such a way as follows: A circulating pump motor is arranged such that an aqueous liquid is conveyed from a substantially cylindrical suction chamber through a filter insert, through a pumping pressure chamber, and a pumping connector into a circulating pumping line. The substantially cylindrical filter insert has a removable closure at a first end, a pumping seal at a second end for sealing the pumping pressure chamber relative to the cylindrical suction chamber, and a circulating pumping opening at its periphery leading to the circulating pumping pressure chamber. The periphery has a plate-like element surrounding the circulating pumping opening, the plate-like element being surrounded by a labyrinth seal and sealing the circulating pumping pressure chamber relative to the suction chamber. The method includes the following steps:

[0036] (a) The pumping motor and / or the circulating pumping motor are operated by the control device such that one of these motors is turned on (i.e. activated or controlled).

[0037] (b) The aqueous liquid is drawn into the suction chamber by means of a controlled pumping motor or a controlled circulating pumping motor; and

[0038] (c1) The aqueous liquid is delivered from the substantially cylindrical suction chamber through a filter insert, through the circulation pump pressure chamber and the circulation pump connector, into the circulation pump line; or

[0039] (c2) The aqueous liquid is delivered from the substantially cylindrical suction chamber through the pump pressure chamber and the pump outlet pipe into the pump outlet line.

[0040] Generally, the aqueous liquid is delivered to the household's wastewater pipes after step (c2).

[0041] In a preferred embodiment of the method according to the invention, the control or adjustment device is configured to take into account loading of laundry.

[0042] The circulating pump motor of a circulating pumping system is typically activated after the introduction of an aqueous liquid (especially water) (especially after a pre-given first volume V). 开始 The process is only initiated after the water is introduced into the alkali container. The aqueous liquid can be fresh water or domestic wastewater (which can be stored in the washing machine, for example, as grey water) or a mixture of fresh water and grey water. Such wastewater is understood as grey water: the wastewater is lightly polluted. For example, the liquid from the final rinse cycle of the washing machine's processing program may not be pumped into the wastewater line, but may be temporarily stored in an optional container of the washing machine. In subsequent processing, the temporarily stored liquid can be flushed into the alkali container at the beginning of the pretreatment stage. This has the advantage of saving fresh water, thereby saving resources used for treating laundry. In a preferred embodiment of the method according to the invention, fresh water is supplied to the alkali container.

[0043] Preferably, the aqueous liquid at the bottom of the lye container is pumped out and guided back to the drum or lye container as centrally as possible, so that the laundry in the drum is loaded with aqueous liquid in the middle (or center). For this injection process, a so-called "washer tunnel" can be specifically formed, and the water supply is optimally injected centrally into the washer tunnel. The circulated treatment liquid is supplied to the lye container at a location called the lye container inlet. Alternatively, the treatment liquid can be guided directly back into the drum and back onto the laundry. In this alternative, the lye container inlet can be arranged in the area of ​​the drum's loading opening. It is also conceivable to supply from the rear, in which case, for example, the aqueous medium is supplied through a hollow drive shaft.

[0044] In a preferred embodiment of the method according to the invention, the circulation pumping system (preferably in a control or regulating device) includes a circulation pumping control unit, which detects the circulation pumping motor power P and analyzes it in terms of the density of the medium to be circulated, the degree of fluffing and two-phase nature of the medium to be circulated, the presence of foreign matter in the circulation pumping line, and / or the contamination of the filter present in the circulation pumping line. Preferably, the correlation between the circulation pumping power and various contamination states (e.g., those of the filter used) is stored in the circulation pumping control unit and / or control device of the washing machine.

[0045] This invention offers numerous advantages. It enables excellent hydraulic separation between the suction and pressure sides of the circulating pump in a circulating pumping system, without requiring additional, costly sealing elements on the filter insert. Furthermore, it allows for good contact with and visibility of the radially arranged impeller of the circulating pump on the pump housing. For cleaning purposes, the filter insert can be easily removed by the user of the washing machine.

[0046] When the clearance is one-dimensional, manufacturing tolerances have a significant impact on the functional design of the leakage flow. By means of the axial and radial clearance between the pump housing and the filter insert, which can be achievable according to the invention, and by corresponding alignment, the sealing effect can be manifested to a certain extent independently of the manufacturing tolerances of the one-dimensional clearance.

[0047] If maintaining the radial geometry of the gap is not a primary concern, the manufacturing cost of the tool can be lower. Particularly important is the use of even multiple tools or tool cavities (tool nests) within a single tool to meet part requirements, incurring individual tooling costs for each tool or tool cavity to minimize differences in leakage flow between these tools. Relatedly, according to the invention, longer tool maintenance cycles are achieved, during which, in the case of a one-dimensional gap shape, disruptive gap flow (or leakage flow) must be repeatedly monitored and limited, because the filter inserts used according to the invention are consequently less sensitive and therefore require less maintenance.

[0048] In one embodiment of the invention, in order to better seal the circulating pump pressure chamber, an additional clamping force is achieved. In this embodiment, there is almost no need to consider tolerances in a complex manner because this sealing principle is based on a seal that acts in a planar manner to a certain extent and is not merely a line contact as in the initial one-dimensional gap representation, which is very susceptible to the influence of tolerances in the components in terms of its sealing effect.

[0049] The circulating pumping system sealed according to the present invention can be more reliable throughout its operating time (service life). For example, in one embodiment, pre-tightening is performed on a seal that functions doubly (axially and radially), in which, for example, not only can manufacturing tolerances be larger, but it can also counteract the relaxation process of, for example, the plastic used in the filter insert or pump housing, which occurs over the service life determined by temperature alternating loads. Radial reinforcement of the suction side of the filter insert's plate (which closes the circulating pumping pressure chamber and even extends beyond the sealing flange) can further influence this effect and thus ensure a constant, small leakage flow throughout the operating time and functionally ensure the main functions of pumping and circulating pumping over the service life of the machine.

[0050] An additional positive side effect is the reduction in the risk of the pump becoming brittle and clogged with fibers over its operating time (lifespan) by decreasing leakage flow between the pressure chamber and the suction chamber. This is because fibers that have reached the pressure chamber are more reliably pumped out or circulated, rather than re-entering the suction chamber through leakage flow and being subject to double transport, which implies a higher risk of fiber accumulation for the pump. Functionally more reliable closure of the sealing gap virtually eliminates the risk of fiber adhesion to the gap geometry (or sealing geometry), which is significantly more dangerous in the case of one-dimensional gap seals, as demonstrated by the inventors' experimental research. Attached Figure Description

[0051] Non-limiting embodiments of the invention will then be explained in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Referring here... Figures 1 to 8 The attached diagram shows:

[0052] Figure 1 A perspective view of a pump housing used according to the present invention is shown, the pump housing having a pumping motor and a circulating pumping motor connected thereto;

[0053] Figure 2 a) A perspective view of a pumping motor / circulating pumping motor with a working wheel; Figure 2 b) shows Figure 2 a) Side view of the pumping motor / circulating pumping motor;

[0054] Figure 3 a) A perspective view showing the filter insert used according to the present invention; Figure 3 b) Showing another perspective view of such a filter plug-in used according to the present invention;

[0055] Figure 4a) A side view of a generally cylindrical filter insert not used according to the invention, having a screw-on closure to be opened, in which a sheet-like element without a labyrinth seal is used;

[0056] Figure 4 b) Shows a side view of a cylindrical filter insert with a screw-on closure to be opened in an embodiment of the invention, in which a sheet-like element with a labyrinth seal is used;

[0057] Figure 5 The vertical longitudinal section is shown passing through the closure, through the filter insert, through the common suction chamber, and through the pump-out pressure chamber;

[0058] Figure 6 A side view of the circulating pumping system is shown, in which the circulating pumping motor is disassembled to reveal the gap geometry between the pump housing and the filter insert.

[0059] Figure 7 The diagram shows a cross-sectional view through a circulating pumping system in which the discharge pressure chamber has a relatively small angle α relative to the suction chamber, in order to achieve a better seal between the suction chamber and the circulating pumping pressure chamber; and

[0060] Figure 8 The labyrinth seal is shown, particularly having a two-step labyrinth seal shown on the left and a three-step labyrinth seal shown on the right. Detailed Implementation

[0061] Figure 1 A perspective view of a pump housing 1, as used according to the invention, is shown, having a pumping motor 5 and a circulating pumping motor 6 connected thereto. The pump housing 1 has a pumping inlet 2, a circulating pumping inlet 3, and a suction inlet 4. Furthermore, a removable closure 7 is arranged on the pump housing 1, on which a cylindrical filter insert, not visible here, is mounted. Reference numeral 10 indicates the suction chamber.

[0062] Figure 2 a) A perspective view showing the pumping motor / circulation pumping motors 5 and 6 with impeller 27, and Figure 2 b) shows Figure 2 a) A side view of the pumping motor / circulation pumping motors 5 and 6, in which the shape of the working wheel 27 can be seen more clearly.

[0063] Figure 3a) A perspective view of a filter insert 8 used according to the invention is shown, on which a removable closure (not shown here) is generally mounted at the left end, allowing the user of the washing machine to remove the filter insert 8 from the washing machine (also not shown here). The filter insert 8 generally has a removable closure (not shown here) at a first end 15, a disc spring 17 at a second end 16 as a pump-out seal for sealing a pump-out pressure chamber (not shown here) relative to a cylindrical suction chamber (also not shown here), and a circular circulation pumping opening 9 (not shown here) on its periphery leading to a circulation pumping pressure chamber (not shown), wherein the periphery has a sheet 18 surrounding the circulation pumping opening 9, which seals the circulation pumping pressure chamber relative to the suction chamber. The sheet 18 has a connecting region 19 through which it is directly or indirectly connected to the first end 15 of the cylindrical filter insert 8. Because the sheet member 18 is part of a cylindrical filter insert 8 formed by injection molding of plastic material, the connection area 19 is an integrated plastic part. In this non-limiting embodiment, the sheet member 18 is concave-shaped to seal the convexly configured circulating pump pressure chamber relative to the cylindrical suction chamber. Furthermore, the sheet member 18 is surrounded outside the connection area 19 by a labyrinth seal 20, which is not shown in more detail here.

[0064] Figure 3 b) shows in Figure 3 Another perspective view of the filter insert 8 shown in a), wherein the filter insert 8 has a guide strip 28 parallel to the filter insert axis 25 for better positioning.

[0065] Figure 4 Figure a shows a side view of a filter insert 8 with a removable closure 7 (only outlined here), which is not used according to the invention; that is, in this filter insert 8, a sheet-like element 18 without a labyrinth seal is used. Reference numeral 17 indicates a disc spring, reference numeral 9 indicates a circular opening in the sheet-like element 18, and reference numeral 19 indicates a connecting area through which the sheet-like element 18 is connected to the second end 16 of the cylindrical filter insert 8. Reference numeral 28 indicates a guide strip, and reference numeral 15 indicates the second or first end of the cylindrical filter insert 8.

[0066] and Figure 4 a) Differently, Figure 4 b) Shows a side view of a generally cylindrical filter insert 8 with a screw-on closure to be opened in an embodiment used according to the invention, in which a sheet 18 with a labyrinth seal 20 is used.

[0067] Figure 5 The figure shows a vertical longitudinal section passing through the closure 7, through the filter insert 8, through the common suction chamber 10, and through the pump discharge pressure chamber 11. Reference numeral 28 indicates the guide strip, reference numeral 12 indicates the circulating pump pressure chamber, and reference numeral 25 indicates the filter insert axis. Reference numeral 27 indicates the impeller of the pump discharge motor 5. Reference numeral 2 indicates the pump discharge connector, and reference numeral 24 indicates the pump discharge motor shaft.

[0068] Figure 6 A side view of the circulating pumping system is shown, with the circulating pumping motor disassembled to reveal the clearance geometry between the pump housing 1 and the filter insert 8. Reference numeral 7 indicates a removable closure, reference numeral 10 indicates the suction chamber, reference numeral 4 indicates the circulating pumping connector, reference numeral 2 indicates the pumping outlet connector, reference numeral 5 indicates the pumping motor, reference numeral 25 indicates the filter insert axis, and reference numeral 18 indicates a sheet member with a circular opening 9 leading to the circulating pumping pressure chamber 12. Reference numeral 20 indicates a labyrinth seal surrounding the sheet member 18.

[0069] Figure 7 A cross-sectional view through a circulating pumping system is shown, in which the pumping pressure chamber 11 has a relatively small angle α relative to the suction chamber 10, in order to achieve a better seal between the suction chamber 10 and the circulating pumping pressure chamber 12. Reference numeral 17 indicates a disc spring, and reference numeral 18 indicates a plate with an opening not visible here leading to the circulating pumping pressure chamber 12. Reference numeral 29 indicates the generated clamping force, and reference numeral 30 indicates the axial tension caused by the (screw-down) closure cap 7. Reference numeral 8 indicates a filter insert.

[0070] exist Figure 7 The embodiment shown allows the filter insert 8 to slide radially away from the common suction chamber 10, thus better sealing the circulation pumping pressure chamber 12. The disc spring 17 functions as a sealing element for the pumping pressure chamber 11. This embodiment allows the filter insert 8 to be removed from the circulation pumping pressure chamber 12 after axial stress relief by loosening the filter cover 7. This results in sufficient room for movement when removing the filter insert 8, although additional resistance is generated when inserting it into the suction chamber 10 (resisting the filter insert 8 against the sealing surface of the circulation pumping pressure chamber 12), thus preventing the filter insert 8 from becoming stuck in the pump housing 1 when the user of the washing machine is forced to clean the circulation pumping system for maintenance purposes.

[0071] Figure 8The labyrinth seal 20 is shown in detail, wherein, for the purposes of explanation, the labyrinth seal 20 has a two-step labyrinth seal 13 with two steps 21, 22 on the left side, and a three-step labyrinth seal 14 with three steps 21, 22, 23 on the right side.

[0072] List of reference numerals

[0073] 1. Pump casing

[0074] 2 Pump outlet pipe

[0075] 3. Circulation pump connection

[0076] 4. Suction connector

[0077] 5 Pump motor

[0078] 6. Circulating pump motor

[0079] 7. The screw-on closure to be opened; the removable closure cap.

[0080] 8. Basically columnar filter plugins

[0081] 9. Opening; Circulation pump opening

[0082] 10. Basically cylindrical suction chamber

[0083] 11 Pump outlet pressure chamber

[0084] 12 Circulating Pump Pressure Chamber

[0085] 13 Two-tiered labyrinth seal

[0086] 14 Three-tiered labyrinth seal

[0087] 15 (basically a cylindrical filter insert) First end

[0088] 16 (basically a cylindrical filter insert) second end

[0089] 17 Pump outlet seal; disc spring

[0090] 18 sheet-like parts

[0091] 19 Connecting Areas

[0092] 20 Labyrinth Seals

[0093] 21. First stage of labyrinth seal

[0094] 22. Second stage of labyrinth seal

[0095] 23. The third stage of labyrinth seals

[0096] 24 Pump motor shaft

[0097] 25 Filter insert axis

[0098] 26 Circulating pump motor shaft

[0099] 27. Working wheel of the circulating pump motor or pumping motor

[0100] 28. Guide strip

[0101] 29. Axial tension caused by (screw-on) closure cap.

[0102] The clamping force generated by 30.

Claims

1. A washing machine, having the following features: - Container for alkali solution; - A drum arranged in the alkaline solution container for receiving the laundry; - Heating device; - Drive motor; - Water supply equipment; and - Control or regulation device, in, The circulating pumping system includes a pump housing (1) having a pump outlet pipe (2), a circulating pumping pipe (3) and a suction pipe (4). The pump housing (1) is provided with a pumping motor (5), a circulating pumping motor (6), and a screw-on closure (7) to be opened. A substantially cylindrical filter insert (8), removable from the washing machine, is mounted on the screw-on closure. This filter insert has at least one opening (9) along its periphery for the passage of aqueous liquids. Thus, the pump housing (1) comprises a substantially cylindrical suction chamber (10), a pumping pressure chamber (11), and a circulating pumping pressure chamber (12). The pump motor (5) is arranged to deliver aqueous liquid from the substantially cylindrical suction chamber (10) via the filter insert through the pump pressure chamber (11) and the pump connector (3) into the pump outlet line, and The circulating pump motor (6) is arranged to deliver aqueous liquid from the substantially cylindrical suction chamber (10) via the filter insert through the circulating pump pressure chamber (12) and the circulating pump connector (3) into the circulating pump line. Its features are, The substantially cylindrical filter insert (8) has a screw-on closure (7) to be opened at a first end (15), a pump-out seal (17) at a second end (16) for sealing the pump-out pressure chamber (11) relative to the substantially cylindrical suction chamber (10), and a circulation pumping opening (9) on the periphery of the filter insert leading to the circulation pumping pressure chamber (12). The peripheral portion has a sheet-like element (18) surrounding the circulation pumping opening (9), the sheet-like element being surrounded by a labyrinth seal (20) and sealing the circulation pumping pressure chamber (12) relative to the suction chamber (10). The sheet (18) has a connection area (19) through which the sheet (18) is directly or indirectly connected to the first end (15) of the cylindrical filter insert (8).

2. The washing machine according to claim 1, Its features are, The sheet (18) is concave in shape so that the convexly configured circulating pump pressure chamber (12) is sealed relative to the substantially cylindrical suction chamber (10).

3. The washing machine according to claim 1 or 2, Its features are, The labyrinth seal (20) has at least one step (21, 22, 23).

4. The washing machine according to claim 3, Its features are, The labyrinth seal (20) has two or three steps.

5. The washing machine according to any one of claims 1 to 2 and 4, Its features are, The angle α between the pump motor shaft (24) and the filter insert shaft (25) is in the range of >0° to 30°.

6. The washing machine according to claim 5, Its features are, The angle α is selected such that static friction between the filter insert (8) and the pump housing (1) is eliminated.

7. The washing machine according to any one of claims 1 to 2, 4 and 6, Its features are, The angle β between the circulating pump motor shaft (26) and the filter insert shaft (25) is in the range of 70° to 110°.

8. The washing machine according to any one of claims 1 to 2, 4 and 6, Its features are, The pump outlet seal (17) is a disc spring.

9. The washing machine according to any one of claims 1 to 2, 4 and 6, Its features are, A lint filter is connected before the suction chamber (10).

10. The washing machine according to any one of claims 1 to 2, 4 and 6, Its features are, The filter plug (8) is configured as a foreign object trap.

11. The washing machine according to any one of claims 1 to 2, 4 and 6, Its features are, The filter insert (8) has at least one guide strip (28) parallel to the filter insert axis (25).

12. The washing machine according to any one of claims 1 to 2, 4 and 6, Its features are, The pumping motor (5) and the circulating pumping motor (6) are brushless DC motors (BLDC).

13. The washing machine according to any one of claims 1 to 2, 4 and 6, Its features are, Compared with the pump outlet pipe (2) and the circulation pumping pipe (3), the suction pipe (4) has a larger diameter.

14. A method for operating a washing machine, the washing machine having: - Container for alkali solution; - A drum arranged in the alkaline solution container for receiving the laundry; - Heating device; - Drive motor; - Water supply equipment; and - Control or regulation device, in, The circulating pumping system includes a pump housing (1) having a pump outlet pipe (2), a circulating pumping pipe (3) and a suction pipe (4). The pump housing (1) is provided with a pumping motor (5), a circulating pumping motor (6), and a screw-on closure (7) to be opened. A substantially cylindrical filter insert (8), removable from the washing machine, is mounted on the screw-on closure. This filter insert has at least one opening (9) along its periphery for the passage of aqueous liquids. Thus, the pump housing (1) comprises a substantially cylindrical suction chamber (10), a pumping pressure chamber (11), and a circulating pumping pressure chamber (12). The pump motor (5) is arranged to deliver aqueous liquid from the substantially cylindrical suction chamber (10) through the pump pressure chamber (11) and the pump connector (3) into the pump outlet line, and The circulating pump motor (6) is arranged to deliver the aqueous liquid from the substantially cylindrical suction chamber (10) through the circulating pump pressure chamber (12) and the circulating pump connector (3) into the circulating pump line. The substantially cylindrical filter insert (8) has a removable closure (7) at a first end (15), a pump-out seal (17) at a second end (16) for sealing the pump-out pressure chamber (11) relative to the substantially cylindrical suction chamber (10), and a circulation pumping opening (9) at the periphery of the filter insert leading to the circulation pumping pressure chamber (12). The peripheral portion has a sheet-like element (18) surrounding the circulation pump opening (9), the sheet-like element being surrounded by a labyrinth seal (20) and sealing the circulation pump pressure chamber (12) relative to the suction chamber (10), wherein the sheet-like element (18) has a connecting area (19), through which the sheet-like element (18) is directly or indirectly connected to the first end (15) of the cylindrical filter insert (8), The method includes the following steps: (a) The pumping motor (5) and / or the circulating pumping motor (6) are operated by the control or regulating device such that at least one of the motors (5, 6) is turned on, i.e. activated or operated, while the other motor is turned off. (b) The aqueous liquid is drawn into the suction chamber (10) by means of a controlled pumping motor (5) or a controlled circulating pumping motor (6); and (c1) The aqueous liquid is delivered from the substantially cylindrical suction chamber (10) through the circulating pump pressure chamber (12) and the circulating pump connector (3) into the circulating pump line; or (c2) The aqueous liquid is delivered from the substantially cylindrical suction chamber (10) through the pump pressure chamber (11) and the pump connection (2) into the pump line.

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