Laundry washing machine equipped with particulate filter device

Abstract

The invention relates to a laundry washing machine (1; 200) for washing laundry, the laundry washing machine comprising: an outer cabinet (2); a washing tub (3) comprising a washing drum (4) adapted to receive laundry to be washed; a liquid supply system (5) adapted to deliver liquid to the washing tub (3); and a discharge system (20) for discharging the liquid to the outside of the outer tank (2). A filter assembly (30; 30 ') is arranged in the flow path between the liquid supply system (5) and the discharge system (20). 230) for a vehicle. The filter assembly (30; 230) comprises: a housing body (32); an inlet (34) for the liquid to be filtered; a particulate filter device (40) comprising a first filter chamber (42) housed in the housing body (32), the first filter chamber (42) comprising a particulate filter element (44) having a filter surface (46) on which particulate accumulates while the liquid flows through the filter surface; a main outlet (36) for filtered liquid, the main outlet being in hydraulic communication with the first filter chamber (42). A cleaning device (50) is movably arranged in the first filtration chamber (42) for removing particulates accumulated on the filtration surface (46), the cleaning device (50) moving particulates removed from the filtration surface (46) towards a storage volume (61) of a collection chamber (60) arranged at one side of and in communication with the first filtration chamber (42). The filter assembly (30; 230) comprises an object filter arrangement (140) comprising a second filter chamber (142) housed in the housing body (32), the second filter chamber (142) comprising an object filter element (144) for blocking objects contained in the liquid to be filtered when the liquid flows therethrough. An object filter device (140) is disposed opposite the collection chamber (60) and between the inlet (34) and the particulate filter device (40), and a second filter chamber (142) receives a portion (54) of the cleaning device (50) therein.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The invention relates to the technical field of clothing washing.

[0002] In particular, the present invention relates to a laundry washing machine equipped with a particulate filter arrangement. Background Art

[0003] Nowadays, laundry washing machines are widely used, including both "simple" laundry washing machines, ie laundry washing machines that can only wash, rinse and spin-dry the laundry, and laundry washing-dryers, ie laundry washing machines that can also dry the laundry with the aid of a drying air flow.

[0004] In this description, the term "laundry washing machine" will refer to either a simple laundry washing machine or a laundry washing-drying machine.

[0005] As is known, in laundry washing machines the laundry to be washed is received in a rotatable washing drum contained in a washing tub.

[0006] It is known that during a laundry wash cycle, the laundry is subjected to mechanical treatment inside a washing drum and / or chemical treatment with the aid of a wash liquor (typically water to which wash / rinse products such as detergent, softener, rinse conditioner etc. may be added).

[0007] The laundry to be processed in a laundry washing machine typically includes clothes and linens made of natural or synthetic fabrics. During the washing and / or rinsing process, the laundry sheds tiny particles (called microparticles or microfibers). In particular, clothes containing synthetic materials shed tiny plastic particle fibers (called microplastics), which are non-biodegradable.

[0008] Microplastics end up in wastewater discharged from laundry washing machines and eventually enter the environment, causing environmental pollution. For example, microplastics washed off from clothes contribute significantly to plastic pollution in the seas and oceans.

[0009] In known laundry washing machines, different solutions have been proposed, namely arranging a particle filter to capture particles in order to reduce the discharge of particles with the waste water.

[0010] In a first type of known systems, the particulate filter is placed outside the machine along a discharge hose connected to a discharge point.

[0011] In various embodiments of the known system, a particulate filter is placed inside the machine along appropriate hydraulic lines.

[0012] A first known system for particle filtration used in a laundry washing machine is disclosed in WO 2020089727 A1. Here, an assembly comprising a particle filter group is positioned along a discharge hose, and a filter body accommodates the filter group. The assembly is made in a cylindrical shape and can be inserted / removed as a filter cartridge through an opening made in the outer wall of the washing machine to allow maintenance operations and replacement operations on the filter group.

[0013] The filter group comprises a cylindrical filter medium for synthetic microfibers and according to a preferred embodiment the filter group further comprises a safety pre-filter positioned fluidly upstream of the filter medium. The pre-filter is arranged coaxially with said filter medium inside the filter medium.

[0014] A second known system for particle filtration used in a laundry washing machine is disclosed in WO 2019081013 A1. Here, a particle filter is arranged along a recirculation line that takes liquid from the bottom of a washing tub and delivers it to an upper point of the same washing tub.

[0015] The particle filter comprises a filter element or a membrane filter arranged in a filter chamber of the filter. According to some embodiments disclosed therein, a cleaning device is movably arranged in the filter chamber for removing particles accumulated on the membrane filter. The particles removed from the membrane filter by the cleaning device are pushed to a particle collection chamber arranged at one side of the filter chamber and separated from the filter chamber. The removed particles enter the particle collection chamber through an opening closed by a controllable valve flap. The user can then access the collection chamber from the outside via a door implemented on the outer box of the machine so that the collection chamber can be manually removed.

[0016] The object of the present invention is to optimize a filter system in a laundry washing machine.

[0017] The object of the present invention is to provide a laundry washing machine which reduces the constructional complexity of the filtering system with which the machine is equipped.

[0018] Another object of the present invention is to provide a solution that makes maintenance operations of a laundry washing machine more comfortable compared to known systems.

[0019] Another object of the present invention is to provide a solution that allows maintenance of one or more filter elements, such as cleaning or replacement operations of one or more filter elements.

[0020] Another object of the present invention is to develop a filter system in a laundry washing machine which ensures easy access to the filter element during maintenance. Summary of the invention

[0021] Therefore, in a first aspect of the invention, the invention relates to a laundry washing machine comprising:

[0022] -Outer box;

[0023] - a washing tub comprising a washing drum suitable for receiving the laundry to be washed;

[0024] - a liquid supply system adapted to deliver liquid to the washing tub;

[0025] - a discharge system for discharging the liquid to the outside of the tank;

[0026] - a filter assembly arranged in the flow path between the liquid supply system and the discharge system, the filter assembly comprising:

[0027] - housing body;

[0028] - an inlet for the liquid to be filtered;

[0029] a particle filter device comprising a first filter chamber accommodated in the housing body, the first filter chamber comprising a particle filter element having a filter surface on which particles accumulate while the liquid flows through the filter surface;

[0030] - a main outlet for filtered liquid, which main outlet is in hydraulic communication with said first filter chamber;

[0031] a cleaning device movably arranged in the first filter chamber for removing particles accumulated on the filter surface, the cleaning device moving the particles removed from the filter surface towards a storage volume of a collecting chamber arranged at one side of the first filter chamber and communicating with the first filter chamber;

[0032] Wherein, the filter assembly includes an object filter device, which includes a second filter chamber accommodated in the shell body, and the second filter chamber includes an object filter element, which is used to block objects contained in the liquid to be filtered when the liquid flows through it, wherein the object filter device is arranged at a position opposite to the collection chamber and is located between the inlet and the particle filter device, and the second filter chamber receives a part of the cleaning device therein.

[0033] Advantageously, by arranging the object filter device opposite the collection chamber, the filter assembly can have space in its internal volume defined by the housing body for placing a cleaning device that interacts with the particle filter element to remove particles from the particle filter element. Furthermore, since the collection chamber should be removed from the laundry washing machine more frequently than is foreseeable for an object filter device, such a collection chamber can be arranged at the front side wall of the laundry washing machine and thus in a more comfortable position for a user to interact with it.

[0034] Still advantageously, by arranging the object filter device opposite the collection chamber, a wider area is created on the filter assembly to place multiple liquid inlets and outlets, thereby effectively designing the liquid flow through the filter assembly, thereby saving the energy required to power a pumping device to move such liquid flow.

[0035] Advantageously, then, by arranging a portion of the cleaning device to be received in the second filter chamber of the object filter device, the space available inside the housing body can be used more efficiently.

[0036] Furthermore, the presence of the cleaning means portion in the second filter chamber increases the likelihood that the object filter means can effectively block objects and thereby prevent them from reaching downstream portions of the discharge circuit, such as pumping means arranged downstream of the filter assembly.

[0037] Preferably, the particle filter device is arranged completely inside the outer cabinet of the laundry washing machine.

[0038] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the particle filter device is a filter adapted to filter particles having a minimum size between 0.1 μm and 5 mm, preferably between 10 μm and 100 μm, more preferably between 10 μm and 75 μm.

[0039] Advantageously, the particle filter device is suitable for retaining particles present in the waste liquid resulting from the mechanical and / or chemical treatment of laundry inside the washing drum, preferably tiny plastic particles (also indicated as microplastics) released by the laundry, which particles are non-biodegradable.

[0040] Preferably, the object filter means is a filter adapted to filter objects having a maximum dimension greater than 5 mm.

[0041] In a preferred embodiment, the filter assembly is arranged in the exhaust system.

[0042] Advantageously, the liquid is subjected to a filtering process before it reaches a discharge point outside the machine, thereby preventing particles from leaving the laundry washing machine.

[0043] According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the liquid supply system includes at least one recirculation system for discharging liquid from a bottom area of ​​the washing tub to a second area of ​​the washing tub, the at least one recirculation system including a recirculation pump arranged downstream of the filter assembly, and the filter assembly includes an additional outlet that is easily connected to the recirculation pump.

[0044] Preferably, the further outlet is in hydraulic communication with the second filter chamber.

[0045] In a preferred embodiment, the collection chamber is configured to be removably coupled relative to the housing body.

[0046] Preferably, the cleaning device comprises at least a portion extending into the storage volume of the collecting chamber, whereby a removal aid is provided for removing the cleaning device from the housing body when the collecting chamber is removed from the housing body.

[0047] Advantageously, the collection chamber, when coupled to the housing body of the particle filter device, closes an opening provided in the housing body through which or by means of which a user can reach the removal aid component to remove the cleaning device from the housing body. In one embodiment, the removal aid component can be removed from the housing body by passing the cleaning device through the opening.

[0048] In a preferred embodiment, the collecting chamber is embodied as a cap for closing an opening provided in the housing body.

[0049] In a preferred embodiment, the portion of the cleaning device extending into the storage volume arranged in the collection chamber for accumulating particles occupies a volume fraction in the storage volume ranging from 2% to 30%, or 25%, or 20%, or 15%, or 10%, or 8%, or 5% of the total storage volume. The size of the volume fraction occupied by the portion of the cleaning device extending into the storage volume is determined according to the particle accumulation capacity that the particle filter device needs to have, taking into account the free space available in the outer casing of the laundry treatment machine and the resulting size of the particle filter device. This advantageously contributes to increasing the number of laundry treatments that the machine can perform without emptying the collection chamber.

[0050] In an embodiment of the invention, the cleaning device extends into the storage volume of the collecting chamber along the extension direction, and the extension range is 15% to 100% of the extension range of the storage volume along the same direction.

[0051] In an embodiment of the present invention, the cleaning device extends into the storage volume of the collection chamber along an extension direction, and the extension range is less than 100% of the extension range of the storage volume along the same direction. In such an embodiment, the cleaning device has a cantilever end portion inside the storage volume (i.e., inside the collection chamber).

[0052] Advantageously, when the collecting chamber is removed from the housing body, the portion of the cleaning device extending into the collecting chamber can be used as a removal aid for removing the cleaning device.After removal of the cleaning device, the particle filter element is advantageously subjected to a suitable cleaning process.

[0053] In a preferred embodiment, the particle filter element is removably arranged in the first filter chamber.

[0054] Advantageously, the particulate filter element may be removed from the first filter chamber and the housing body for appropriate cleaning procedures or replacement, if necessary.

[0055] Further advantageously, the particle filter element can be removed from the filter chamber and the housing body through the opening provided in the housing body.

[0056] In one embodiment, the same opening provided in the housing body allows removal of the cleaning device and the particle filter element from the housing body.

[0057] In a preferred embodiment, the object filter element of the object filter device is removably arranged in the second filter chamber.

[0058] Advantageously, the object filter element may be removed from the second filter chamber and the housing body for a suitable cleaning procedure or replacement, if necessary.

[0059] According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the cleaning device is configured to be removably coupled to the first filter chamber and the second filter chamber.

[0060] Advantageously, the cleaning device can be removed from the first filter chamber and the second filter chamber, so that the particle filter element and the object filter element are advantageously accessible from the outside. Thus, a user can advantageously reach the particle filter element and / or the object filter element for a suitable cleaning process.

[0061] In a preferred embodiment, the cleaning device comprises a rotatable element that facilitates the removal of particles accumulated on the filtering surface of the particle filter element.

[0062] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the rotatable element comprises a worm including a central shaft body and a helical element surrounding the central shaft body.

[0063] Advantageously, the rotatable element wipes one side of the filtering surface of the particle filter element and moves the particles towards the collection chamber, thereby acting as a worm conveyor.

[0064] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, an actuating device is provided for moving the cleaning device.

[0065] In a preferred embodiment, the actuating means comprises an electric motor.

[0066] Preferably, the actuating device is arranged opposite to the collecting chamber.

[0067] Advantageously, the actuation means may be arranged at an opposite end portion of the housing body so as to be closer to its power source and away from the user interaction area.

[0068] According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the cleaning device and the collecting chamber are removably coupled to each other, such that when the collecting chamber is removed from the housing body, the collecting chamber is disconnected from the cleaning device.

[0069] In a preferred embodiment, the outer casing of the machine further comprises an aperture, such that the collecting chamber of the particle filter device is accessible from the aperture.Then, the outer casing further comprises an openable door associated with the aperture.

[0070] In a preferred embodiment, the particulate filter element is a disposable filter element. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0071] Further features and advantages of the present invention will be highlighted in more detail in the following detailed description of some of the preferred embodiments of the present invention with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the accompanying drawings, corresponding features and / or components are identified with the same reference numerals. In particular:

[0072] - Figure 1 shows a front view of a laundry washing machine according to a first embodiment of the present invention;

[0073] - Figure 2 Shows Figure 1 A schematic diagram of a clothes washing machine;

[0074] - Figure 3 Shows Figure 1 A side view of a laundry washing machine with an outer side wall of the laundry washing machine removed;

[0075] - Figure 4 Shows Figure 1 A top view of a laundry washing machine with a top side wall and some components of the laundry washing machine removed;

[0076] - Figure 5 Shows Figure 1 An isometric view of the internal components of a clothes washing machine isolated from the rest of the machine;

[0077] - Figure 6 From another perspective Figure 5 Components;

[0078] - Figure 7 Shows Figure 5Some components isolated from the rest of the machine, including a filter assembly according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention;

[0079] - Figure 8 From another perspective Figure 7 Components;

[0080] - Fig. 9 Shows Figure 8 a component from which a component is removed;

[0081] - Fig.10 yes Figure 7 A cross-sectional view of the filter assembly taken along line X°-X°;

[0082] - Fig.11 yes Figure 7 A cross-sectional view of the filter assembly taken along line XI°-XI°;

[0083] - Figure 12 to Figure 14 Shown in different operating positions Fig.10 Filter assembly;

[0084] - Fig.15 Shows Fig.14 Another embodiment of the filter assembly;

[0085] - Fig.16 A schematic diagram showing a laundry washing machine of the present invention according to another embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0086] - Fig.17 Shown for Fig.16 Cross-sectional view of a filter assembly of a laundry washing machine. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0087] As described below, the present invention has proven to be particularly advantageous when applied to a laundry washing machine (i.e., an appliance capable of performing at least a washing process on laundry and optionally further capable of performing a drying process on laundry). In this regard, the present invention can be applied to laundry washing and drying machines.

[0088] refer to Figures 1 to 4 , a preferred embodiment of a laundry washing machine 1 according to the present invention is described.

[0089] The laundry washing machine 1 preferably comprises a housing or outer casing 2, a washing tub 3, a container 4, preferably a perforated washing drum 4, in which the laundry to be treated can be loaded.

[0090] Both the washing tub 3 and the washing drum 4 preferably have a substantially cylindrical shape.

[0091] The cabinet 2 is provided at its front side wall 2a with a loading / unloading door 8 allowing access to the washing drum 4 .

[0092] The washing drum 4 is advantageously rotated by an electric motor (as known in the art) which preferably transmits the rotational movement to the shaft of the washing drum 4, advantageously by means of a belt / pulley system. In different embodiments of the invention, the motor may be directly associated with the shaft of the washing drum 4.

[0093] The washing drum 4 is advantageously provided with holes or orifices which allow liquid to flow therethrough. The holes are typically and preferably evenly distributed on the cylindrical side wall of the washing drum 4.

[0094] The bottom area 3a of the washing tub 3 preferably comprises a seat 15 or sump suitable for receiving the heating device 10. The heating device 10 heats the liquid collected inside the sump 15 when activated.

[0095] In further embodiments, other types of heating devices may advantageously be placed in the machine 1 to heat the liquid.

[0096] Preferably, the laundry washing machine 1 comprises means 19 adapted to sense (or detect) the level of liquid inside the washing tub 3 .

[0097] The sensor device 19 preferably comprises a pressure sensor, which senses the pressure in a chamber formed in or connected to the washing tub 3. Such a chamber can be partially filled with liquid contained in the washing tub 3, thereby changing the pressure in the unfilled part of the chamber. According to the pressure value sensed by the sensor device 19, the liquid level of the liquid inside the washing tub 3 can be determined. In another embodiment (not shown), the laundry washing machine may preferably include (in addition to or as an alternative to the pressure sensor) a liquid level sensor (e.g. mechanical, electromechanical, optical, etc.), which is suitable for sensing (or detecting) the liquid level inside the washing tub 3.

[0098] The liquid supply (water supply) system 5 is preferably arranged in the upper part of the laundry washing machine 1 and is suitable for supplying water into the washing tub 3 from an external water supply line E. The water supply system 5 preferably includes a controlled supply valve 5a, which is properly controlled, opened and closed during the washing cycle to properly perform all its stages. The water supply system of the laundry washing machine is well known in the art, so it will not be described in detail.

[0099] A liquid supply system generally refers to any system that facilitates the supply of water or any liquid into a bucket.

[0100] The laundry washing machine 1 advantageously comprises a treatment agent dispenser 14 for supplying one or more treatment agents into the washing tub 3 during the washing cycle. The treatment agents may comprise, for example, detergents, rinse additives, fabric softeners or conditioners, water repellents, fabric enhancers, rinse disinfectant additives, chlorine-based additives, etc.

[0101] Preferably, the process reagent dispenser 14 comprises a removable drawer 6 provided with various compartments suitable for filling with process reagents.

[0102] In the preferred embodiment presented herein, water is supplied from the water supply system 5 to the washing tub 3 by passing the water through the treatment reagent dispenser 14 and then through the supply conduit 18. The provision of the treatment reagent to the washing tub 3 may be performed by automatically dosing a certain amount of the treatment reagent and then delivering the reagent to the washing tub 3. Such dosing is preferably performed by a dosing device having a metering device for measuring the desired amount of the reagent to be obtained from the treatment reagent storage device and delivered to the washing tub 3.

[0103] In an alternative embodiment of the present invention, another separate water supply conduit may be provided which is dedicated to supplying clean water from an external water supply line into the washing tub.

[0104] In another preferred embodiment (not shown herein), a water softening device may be preferably arranged / inserted between the external water supply line and the treatment reagent dispenser so that the clean water flowing out of the external water supply line passes through the water softening device. As is well known, the water softening device is structured to reduce the hardness of the clean water drawn out from the external water supply line and delivered to the treatment reagent dispenser.

[0105] In various embodiments, the water softening device may be arranged / interposed between the external water supply line and the washing tub, so that the clean water flowing out of the external water supply line passes through the water softening device and is directly delivered to the washing tub.

[0106] The laundry washing machine 1 advantageously comprises a control unit 11 which is in signal and / or electrical communication with various operating parts of the laundry washing machine 1, such as the drum motor, sensors, etc., in order to ensure the operation of the laundry washing machine for executing a laundry treatment program. The control unit 11 is advantageously also connected to an interface unit 11a which is accessible to the user and by means of which the user from time to time selects and sets washing parameters, in particular a desired laundry washing or treatment program.

[0107] The laundry washing machine 1 preferably comprises a drain system 20 for draining the liquid outside the cabinet 2 to a drain point (not shown). More preferably, the drain system 20 extracts the liquid from the bottom area 3a of the washing tub 3 and drains it outside the cabinet 2.

[0108] The drain system 20 preferably includes a main discharge conduit 22 connected to the sump 15 , a drain pump 24 , and an outlet conduit 26 ending outside the tank 2 .

[0109] Preferably, the discharge pump 24 is a centrifugal pump provided with a rotating member or impeller that moves liquid to the pump outlet.

[0110] According to the first aspect of the present invention, a filter assembly 30 is arranged in the flow path between the water supply system 5 and the exhaust system 20 .

[0111] Preferably, the filter assembly 30 is arranged in the discharge system 20. More preferably, the filter assembly 30 is arranged between the main discharge conduit 22 and the discharge pump 24.

[0112] The filter assembly 30 preferably includes a particle filter device 40 for retaining particles and an object filter device 140 for blocking objects having a maximum dimension greater than 5 mm.

[0113] The particle filter arrangement 40 and the object filter arrangement 140 preferably extend adjacent to each other within the same body member.

[0114] The object filter device 140 is adapted to block objects before they reach the pump (e.g., before they reach the discharge pump 24 or other pumps), as better described later. The object filter device 140 aims to trap unwanted objects that could damage the pump, preferably the discharge pump 24 (e.g., could damage the impeller in the case of a centrifugal pump design).

[0115] Objects of said kind (hereinafter also indicated as coarse materials) may include, for example, buttons, coins, screws, needles, paper clips, pieces of clothing or the like.

[0116] The particle filter device 40 is a filter suitable for retaining particles having a minimum size between 0.1 μm and 5 mm, preferably between 10 μm and 100 μm, more preferably between 10 μm and 75 μm.

[0117] Particles of this type are typically present in waste liquids generated by mechanical and / or chemical treatment of laundry inside the washing drum 4, as the laundry releases microscopic particles. In particular, laundry comprising synthetic materials sheds microscopic plastic particle fibers (also indicated as microplastics), which are non-biodegradable.

[0118] Therefore, the particulate filter device 40 advantageously acts as a microplastic filter device 40 .

[0119] Thus, according to the invention, the filter assembly 30 prevents coarse material from reaching the drain pump 24 and before the liquid reaches a discharge point outside the laundry washing machine 1 , the liquid is subjected to a filtering process, thereby preventing particles from leaving the laundry washing machine 1 .

[0120] Therefore, the liquid flowing through the filter assembly 30 and discharged to the outside through the exhaust system 20 is advantageously subjected to the action of at least said particulate filter device 40 , as better described later.

[0121] According to reference Figures 1 to 6 The preferred embodiment described, the laundry washing machine 1 preferably comprises a first recirculation system 100 adapted to drain liquid from a bottom area 3a placed at the bottom portion of the washing tub 3 and to re-feed such liquid back again into said bottom area 3a of the washing tub 3. The laundry washing machine 1 preferably comprises a second recirculation system 120 adapted to drain liquid from said bottom area 3a of the washing tub 3 and to re-feed such liquid into a second area 3b of the washing tub 3, which is placed at a higher level with respect to the bottom area 3a.

[0122] Liquid taken from the washing tub 3 is preferably fed back to the bottom area 3a of the washing tub 3 for mixing and / or dissolving a laundry treatment product, in particular a detergent in powder or liquid form. The mixing and / or dissolving of the laundry treatment product is preferably performed during the wash cycle when one product is supplied from the treatment agent dispenser 14 into the washing tub 3.

[0123] Preferably, the second area 3b of the washing tub 3 corresponds substantially to the upper area 3b of the washing tub 3. Liquid is preferably re-fed to the upper area 3b of the washing tub 3 in order to improve the wetting of the clothes inside the washing drum 4. This action is preferably performed at the beginning of the washing cycle when the clothes need to be completely wetted. In addition, this action is preferably performed during the rinsing phase at the beginning of the washing cycle or during the rinsing phase in the subsequent steps of the washing cycle. In addition, this action can also be performed during the main washing phase in order to effectively reach the clothes resting in the upper area of ​​the drum.

[0124] The first recirculation system 100 preferably comprises a first recirculation pump 102 connected downstream of the filter assembly 30 and a first recirculation line 104 for delivering liquid to the bottom area 3a of the washing tub 3. Preferably, the first recirculation pump 102 is a centrifugal pump provided with a rotating member or impeller that moves the liquid to the pump outlet.

[0125] The second recirculation system 120 preferably includes a second recirculation pump 122 connected downstream of the filter assembly 30, a conduit 124 connecting the filter assembly 30 to the second recirculation pump 122, and a second recirculation line 126 for delivering liquid to the second area 3b of the washing tub 3. Preferably, the second recirculation pump 122 is a centrifugal pump provided with a rotating member or impeller that moves the liquid to the pump outlet.

[0126] According to the invention, the filter assembly 30 is configured so that the liquid flowing therethrough and circulating in the first recirculation system 100 and / or the second recirculation system 120 is preferably subjected only to the action of the object filter device 140, as better described later. The filter assembly 30 is therefore preferably configured to prevent coarse material from reaching the first recirculation pump 102 and / or the second recirculation pump 122 of the respective recirculation system 100, 120.

[0127] refer to Figures 5 to 14 The filter assembly 30 will now be described in greater detail.

[0128] The filter assembly 30 preferably shows an elongated shape and preferably extends along a main axis X.

[0129] The filter assembly 30 includes a housing body 32 that is preferably made of a plastic material (ie, a polymer material).

[0130] according to Figures 1 to 4 The preferred embodiment shown, the filter assembly 30 is preferably arranged in a lower part of the laundry washing machine 1 , more preferably in the lower right side of the laundry washing machine 1 .

[0131] The filter assembly 30 is preferably placed just below the sump 15 and is connected to the sump by means of said main discharge conduit 22 .

[0132] The inlet 34 of the filter assembly 30 is connected to the end 22 a of the main exhaust conduit 22 .

[0133] The filter assembly 30 then comprises a main outlet 36 for the filtered liquid, which is preferably connected to the discharge pump 24 via a connecting duct 35 .

[0134] The filter assembly 30 preferably includes another first outlet 38 for the first recirculation system 100. The first recirculation pump 102 of the first recirculation system 100 is preferably fixedly connected to the housing body 32, more preferably fixedly connected to the volute 32a of the housing body 32, such as Fig. 9 As shown, the volute 32 a is preferably formed integrally with the housing body 32 . The liquid pumped by the first recirculation pump 102 passes through the volute 32 a and is then delivered to the first outlet 38 .

[0135] In various embodiments, the first recirculation pump may be separate from the housing body of the filter assembly and connected to the housing body via a hose.

[0136] The filter assembly 30 preferably comprises another second outlet 39 for the second recirculation system 120. The second outlet 39 is preferably connected to a second recirculation pump 122 of the second recirculation system 120 via a connecting pipe 124. The liquid pumped by the second recirculation pump 122 leaves the filter assembly 30 through the second outlet 39.

[0137] As described above, the filter assembly 30 includes a particulate filter device 40 for retaining particulates.

[0138] The particulate filter device 40 includes a first filter chamber 42 (in Fig.14 ), which receives therein a particle filter element 44 having a filter surface 46 at which particles accumulate while liquid flows through the filter surface.

[0139] The amount of volume enclosed by the housing body 32 defines a first filter chamber 42 .

[0140] The first filter chamber 42 is therefore accommodated in the housing body 32 .

[0141] The first filter chamber 42 is preferably cylindrical in shape, and the particle filter element 44 preferably has a cylindrical tubular shape. The first filter chamber 42 and the particle filter element 44 preferably extend along the main axis X. The filter surface 46 preferably comprises a plurality of grids 46a, more preferably rectangular grids 46a (e.g. Fig.14 (see ).

[0142] The meshes 46a are preferably implemented using braided wire. In a preferred embodiment, the wire is made of polyethylene. The plurality of meshes 46a may be provided by one or more braided wire layers covering a plurality of openings formed in the body portion of the particulate filter element 44.

[0143] Preferably, the mesh is selected to have a mesh size configured to retain particles having a minimum dimension between 0.1 μm and 5 mm, preferably between 10 μm and 100 μm, more preferably between 10 μm and 75 μm, as described above.

[0144] The particle filter element 44 preferably defines an unfiltered volume 43 that is susceptible to receiving liquid that has not yet been microfiltered. According to the preferred embodiment presented here, the unfiltered volume 43 corresponds to the cylindrical inner volume of the particle filter element 44. Under normal operating conditions of the particle filter device 40, liquid is supplied into the unfiltered volume 43 and then undergoes filtration by passing through the particle filter element 44, in particular through the mesh 46a. Thus, the filtered liquid reaches an elongated annular chamber 48, which is radially outside the particle filter element 44 and forms part of the first filter chamber 42. The elongated annular chamber 48 is in hydraulic communication with the main outlet 36 of the filter assembly 30. Thus, the main outlet 36 and the first filter chamber 42 are in hydraulic communication with each other.

[0145] As liquid flows through the particulate filter element 44 , particulates gradually accumulate on the filter surface 46 .

[0146] The extension of the first filter chamber 42 along the main axis X substantially corresponds to the filtering area defined by the particle filter element 44 , more preferably by said mesh 46 a .

[0147] However, the first filter chamber 42 may include a portion that extends outside the filter region and is preferably used to assemble a particulate filter element (eg, to receive a sealing element, or to connect the particulate filter element to other portions of the filter assembly 30).

[0148] As described above, the filter assembly 30 includes an object filter device 140 for retaining coarse materials. The object filter device 140 is preferably disposed adjacent to the particle filter device 40 within the same body element.

[0149] The object filter device 140 is arranged upstream of the particulate filter device 40 .

[0150] The term "upstream" herein refers to the flow direction of the liquid to be filtered that enters the filter assembly 30 through the inlet 34 and reaches the main outlet 36 during operation of the washing machine; the arrangement of the object filter device 140 upstream of the particulate filter device 40 means that, during operation of the discharge pump 24, the liquid first passes through the object filter device 140 and then flows into the particulate filter device 40.

[0151] The object filter device 140 is therefore located between the inlet 34 for the liquid to be filtered and the particle filter device 40 .

[0152] The object filter device 140 includes a second filter chamber 142 (in Fig.14 ), the second filter chamber receives therein an object filter element 144 which is configured to retain coarse elements when liquid flows therethrough.

[0153] The amount of volume enclosed by the housing body 32 defines a second filter chamber 142 .

[0154] The second filter chamber 142 is therefore housed in the housing body 32 .

[0155] Therefore, the first filter chamber 42 and the second filter chamber 142 are housed within the same body member 32 .

[0156] In the preferred embodiment presented herein, the object filter element 144 is implemented as a hollow half cylinder provided with apertures 146 of an appropriate size to intercept objects having a maximum dimension greater than 5 mm (eg, a circular aperture of 5 mm in diameter).

[0157] In other preferred embodiments, the object filter element may be configured differently. For example, the object filter element may be implemented as a channel through which the liquid to be filtered flows, and it may be provided with a tortuous structure, for example in the form of tabs arranged along the channel, so as to create a labyrinthine path through which the liquid flows while objects are blocked by the tabs.

[0158] The second filter chamber 142 is preferably cylindrical in shape, and the object filter element 144 preferably has a shape matching the cylindrical shape, such as a semi-cylindrical shape.

[0159] The second filter chamber 142 and the object filter element 144 preferably extend along a main axis X.

[0160] The object filter element 144 is preferably arranged in a lower / bottom part of the second filter chamber 142 when the laundry washing machine 1 is in its upright operating position.

[0161] The object filter element 144 receives liquid from the inlet 34 from above, which then undergoes filtration by passing through the object filter element 144 using its orifice 146. Thus, the filtered liquid reaches an elongated semi-annular chamber 148, which is radially outside the object filter element 144 and forms part of the second filter chamber 142. The elongated semi-annular chamber 148 is in hydraulic communication with the first outlet 38 and the second outlet 39, which are associated with the first recirculation system 100 and the second recirculation system 120. Advantageously, the radial thickness of the semi-annular chamber 148, defined by the shorter distance between the second filter chamber 142 and the object filter element 144, is dimensioned so that even in the case where an object extending mainly in a single direction, such as, for example, a needle, can pass through the orifice 146, the object will still be trapped by the semi-annular chamber 148, because the longer dimension of the object will not allow sufficient movement to pass through said orifice 146 and leave the second filter chamber 142. In this manner, the semi-annular chamber 148 helps create a tortuous structure for blocking objects having a maximum dimension greater than 5 mm.

[0162] Therefore, the first outlet 38 and the second filter chamber 142 are in hydraulic communication with each other. Similarly, the second outlet 39 and the second filter chamber 142 are in hydraulic communication with each other.

[0163] When the first recirculation system 100 is in operation, with the first recirculation pump 102 activated, liquid enters the second filter chamber 142 through the inlet 34 , undergoes filtering action by the object filter element 144 , and then circulates through the first recirculation line 104 through the first outlet 38 .

[0164] Similarly, when the second recirculation system 120 is operating, with the second recirculation pump 122 enabled, liquid enters the second filter chamber 142 through the inlet 34 , undergoes filtering action by the object filter element 144 , and then circulates through the second recirculation line 126 through the second outlet 39 .

[0165] Thus, the object filter device 140 traps undesirable objects that may damage the first recirculation pump 102 and / or the second recirculation pump 122 (eg, may damage the impeller if a centrifugal pump design is used).

[0166] The object filter element 144 of the object filter device 140 is preferably arranged in the same housing body 32 adjacent to the particle filter element 44 of the particle filter device 40. More preferably, the object filter element 144 of the object filter device 140 is in contact with the particle filter element 44 of the particle filter device 40.

[0167] The object filter element 144 of the object filter device 140 and the particle filter element 44 of the particle filter device 40 are preferably in communication through respective apertures 145 , 45 facing each other.

[0168] Thus, liquid can flow from the second filter chamber 142 to the first filter chamber 42 by passing through the apertures 145 , 45 .

[0169] When the discharge system 20 is in operation, with the discharge pump 24 activated, the liquid enters the second filter chamber 142 through the inlet 34, passes through the apertures 145, 45, enters the first filter chamber 42, undergoes the filtering action of the particle filter element 44, leaves the filter assembly 30 through the main outlet 36, and is then discharged to the outside through the outlet pipe 26. When the liquid enters the second filter chamber 142 through the inlet 34, substantially the entire flow mass strikes the object filter element 144 without bypassing the object filter element. This is achieved by means of the flow direction imparted by the duct-shaped element provided on the housing body 32 to form the inlet 34.

[0170] Advantageously, the liquid flowing through the filter assembly 30 and discharged to the outside is subjected to the action of the particulate filter device 40 .

[0171] Therefore, the liquid flowing through the filter assembly 30 and discharged to the outside of the laundry washing machine 1 is subjected to the action of both the object filter device 140 and the particle filter device 40. The liquid circulating inside the laundry washing machine 1, which enters the filter assembly 30 through the inlet 34 and leaves the filter assembly 30 through either of the two outlets 38, 39, is mainly filtered by the object filter element 144.

[0172] According to one aspect of the invention, the filter assembly 30 is equipped with a cleaning device 50 configured to remove particles accumulated on a first side of the filter surface 46 of the particle filter element 44 that the liquid encounters when passing through said filter surface 46 .

[0173] The cleaning device 50 is preferably arranged inside the particle filter element 44 to move the particles removed from the filter surface 46 towards the storage volume 61 of the collection chamber 60. The collection chamber 60 is arranged at one side (particularly the end side) of the first filter chamber 42 and communicates therewith.

[0174] According to the preferred embodiment described herein, the movable cleaning device 50 comprises a rotatable element 51 which wipes one side of the filter surface 46, preferably a first side of the filter surface 46, encountered by the liquid and where particles accumulate. More preferably, the rotatable element 51 can be implemented as a worm having a central shaft body 52 extending along the main axis X and a spiral element 56 surrounding the central shaft body 52 (preferably made integrally with the central shaft body 52).

[0175] This main axis X corresponds to the direction through which the rotatable element 51 extends. In the preferred embodiment described herein, this main axis X preferably coincides with the main axis X of the filter assembly 30.

[0176] The helical element 56 is preferably a circular helical element 56. According to this embodiment, the helical element 56 substantially defines a helical surface.

[0177] In the embodiment described above, the rotatable element 51 rotates about the main axis X, the spiral element 56 wipes one side of the filtering surface 46 of the particle filter element 44, thereby removing the particles accumulated on this side, and at the same time, the rotatable element is able to move the particles towards the storage volume 61 of the collection chamber 60, thereby ultimately acting as a screw conveyor.

[0178] Thus, as the rotatable element 51 rotates, the particles are collected in the storage volume 61 of the collection chamber 60. The particles removed from the filter surface 42 are transported towards the storage volume 61 of the collection chamber 60 and towards the opening 37 provided in the housing body 32, so that the particles can be removed from the particle filter device by removing the collection chamber 60 from the particle filter device 30.

[0179] Advantageously, the particles moving towards the collection chamber 60 are pressed into the storage area 61 by the action of the spiral element 56 .

[0180] According to one aspect of the present invention, the object filter device 140 is disposed at a position opposite to the collection chamber 60, and the second filter chamber 142 of the object filter device 140 receives a portion 54 of the cleaning device 50 therein. Preferably, the second filter chamber 142 of the object filter device 140 receives a portion 54 of the central shaft body 52 of the cleaning device 50.

[0181] Advantageously, by arranging the object filter device 140 opposite the collection chamber 60, the filter assembly 30 can have space in its internal volume defined by the housing body 32 for placing a cleaning device 50 that interacts with the particle filter element 44 to remove particles from the particle filter element. Furthermore, since the collection chamber 60 should be removed from the laundry washing machine 1 more frequently than is foreseeable for the object filter device 140, such a collection chamber 60 can be arranged at the front side wall 2a of the laundry washing machine 1 and thus in a more comfortable position for the user to interact with it.

[0182] Still advantageously, by arranging the object filter device 140 opposite the collection chamber 60, a wider area is created on the filter assembly 30 to place multiple liquid inlets and outlets, thereby effectively designing the liquid flow through the filter assembly 30, thereby saving the energy required to power a pumping device to move such liquid flow.

[0183] Advantageously, then, by arranging a portion 54 of the cleaning device 50 received in the second filter chamber 142 of the object filter device 140, the space available inside the housing body 32 may be used more efficiently.

[0184] Furthermore, the presence of the cleaning device portion 54 in the second filter chamber 142 enhances the likelihood that the object filter device 140 can effectively block objects and thereby prevent the objects from reaching the downstream portion of the discharge circuit (e.g., a pumping device disposed downstream of the filter assembly 30). For example, an object having a single major dimension, such as a needle, can be agitated in multiple directions by the combined action of the liquid flow conveying the object to be filtered and the cleaning device portion 54 in the second filter chamber 142 being surrounded by the flow, so as to then be captured on the object filter element 144 and retained inside the second filter chamber 142.

[0185] The rotation of the rotatable element 51 is preferably obtained by means of an actuating device 70 .

[0186] The actuating device 70 is preferably disposed at a position opposite to the collecting chamber 60 , and more preferably disposed outside the second filter chamber 142 and as close to the rotatable element 51 as possible.

[0187] Advantageously, the actuation device 70 may be arranged at an opposite end portion of the housing body 32 so as to be closer to its power source and away from the user interaction area.

[0188] The actuating device 70 is preferably arranged at the first end 54a of the central shaft body 52 of the rotatable element 51, preferably at the first end 54a of the portion 54 of the central shaft 52 received in the second filter chamber 142. The actuating device 70 preferably comprises an electric motor 72 having a rotatable shaft 74 cooperating with the first end 54a of the central shaft body 52 of the rotatable element 51.

[0189] An interconnection device 76 is preferably arranged between the first end 54a of the central shaft body 52 of the rotatable element 51 and the rotatable shaft 74 of the electric motor 72. The interconnection device 76 allows the rotation of the rotatable shaft 74 to be transmitted to the rotatable element 51, and also allows the rotatable element 51 to be disconnected from the rotatable shaft 74, so that the rotatable element 51 can be removed from the first housing body 32, as better described later.

[0190] Preferably, the interconnection device 76 includes a joint element 78 rotatably mounted on the housing body 32 of the filter assembly 30. The joint element 78 includes a first end 82 connected to the shaft 74 of the motor 72 and a second end 84 received in a seat 86 of the central shaft body 52 of the rotatable element 51. The second end 84 of the joint element 78 and the seat 86 of the central shaft body 52 of the rotatable element 51 are complementary in shape, such as using a cylindrical shape with a flat portion, so that when the rotatable element 51 is working / rotating, the second end and the seat can rotate together, and when the rotatable element 51 stops, the second end and the seat can be disconnected, preferably by removing the rotatable element 51 while pulling the rotatable element 51 along the main axis X direction.

[0191] According to another aspect of the present invention, the collection chamber 60 is configured to be removably coupled relative to the housing body 32. The collection chamber 60 acts as a cap for the opening 37, thereby closing the opening when the collection chamber is coupled to the housing body 32.

[0192] according to Figures 7 to 14 In the illustrated preferred embodiment, the collection chamber 60 is preferably removably coupled to the housing body 32 by mechanical interference, thus, the collection chamber 60 is preferably removably coupled to the housing body 32 by a push / pull action.

[0193] In further preferred embodiments, the collection chamber may be configured to be removably coupled to the housing body by a snap action, or to be screwable to the housing body.

[0194] A sealing element 60a, such as a plastic (ie polymer) O-ring, is preferably arranged between the collecting chamber 60 and the housing body 32 to ensure water tightness and crating mechanical interference during the filtering process.

[0195] A sealing element 60b, such as a plastic (ie polymer) O-ring, is also preferably arranged between the collection chamber 60 and the particle filter element 44 to further ensure water tightness and cell box mechanical interference during the filtering process.

[0196] According to another aspect of the invention, the cleaning device 50 comprises a portion 90 extending into the storage volume 61 of the collecting chamber 60, thereby providing a removal aid 90 for removing the cleaning device 50 from the housing body 32 when the collecting chamber 60 is removed from the housing body 32, as will be better described later.

[0197] according to Figures 7 to 14 In the preferred embodiment shown, the portion 90 of the cleaning device 50 extending into the storage volume 61 of the collection chamber 60 is preferably implemented as a portion 90 protruding from the first filter chamber 42 and extending into the storage volume 61 of the collection chamber 60. In this embodiment, the cleaning device 50 extends into the storage volume 61 of the collection chamber 60 along the axis X, reaching the entire extension range of the storage volume 61 along the same axis X. The volume occupied by the portion of the cleaning device 90 extending into the storage volume 61 is about 2% of the storage volume of the accumulated particles. In a different embodiment (not shown in the figure), the cleaning device 50 can be extended along a certain direction (for example, Figures 4 to 7 The axis X) in the embodiment extends into the storage volume 61, reaching only a part of the extension of the storage volume in the same direction. Thus, the cleaning device can have a cantilever end portion.

[0198] Preferably, portion 90 is embodied as an extension of central axis body 52 of rotatable element 51 .

[0199] The portion 90 and the collecting chamber 60 are preferably removably coupled to each other. The portion 90 is preferably received in a support seat 63 which is realized in the storage area 61 of the collecting chamber 60.

[0200] When the rotatable element 51 rotates, the portion 90 rotates within the support mount 63. The support mount 63 preferably acts as a centering device while the rotatable element 51 is working / rotating.

[0201] The shapes of the support bracket 63 and the part 90 are determined (for example, both are cylindrical in shape) so that when the rotatable element 51 rotates, the part 90 can rotate relative to the support bracket 63, and when the collection chamber 60 is removed from the shell body 32, the collection chamber 60 can disengage from the part 90.

[0202] Thus, the cleaning device 50 and the collection chamber 60 are preferably removably coupled to each other such that the collection chamber 60 can be disconnected from the cleaning device 50 when the collection chamber 60 is removed from the housing body 32 .

[0203] When the collection chamber 60 is removed from the housing body 32, as shown Fig.12 As shown, the portion 90 provides a removal aid 90 for removing the rotatable element 51 from the housing body 32. Therefore, the rotatable element 51 is also advantageously removable from the first filter chamber 42 and the second filter chamber 142 of the respective filter device 40, 140. In particular, the rotatable element 51 can be removed from the first filter chamber 42 and the second filter chamber 142 by removing the rotatable element 51 through the opening 37 of the housing body 32.

[0204] In fact, the portion 90 can be usefully grasped by a user and pulled along the main axis X, so that the rotatable element 51 is disconnected from the joint element 78 and can be completely removed from the housing body 32 .

[0205] like Fig.12 The illustrated operating position preferably refers to a maintenance phase of the laundry washing machine 1 , when it is necessary to remove the collecting chamber 60 and then to clean the particles stored in the storage area 61 from the collecting chamber.

[0206] As described above, from this operating position, the rotatable element 51 can be completely removed from the housing body 32 by means of the removal aid 90 consisting of the portion 90 .

[0207] After the rotatable element 51 has been completely removed from the housing body 32, the particle filter element 44 and its filtering surface 46 and the object filter element 144 of the object filter device 140 are advantageously accessible from the outside. The user can reach the particle filter element 44 and its filtering surface 46 and / or the object filter element 144 of the object filter device 140 in order to carry out a suitable cleaning process.

[0208] More preferably, the particle filter element 44 is removably arranged in the first filter chamber 42 of the particle filter device 40. Advantageously, after removing the collecting chamber 60, the user can also take the particle filter element 44 out of the first filter chamber 42, thus facilitating a cleaning process and / or replacement of the particle filter element in the event that the particle filter element 44 is worn or damaged, such as for example Fig.13 or Fig.14 In particular, the particle filter element 44 can be removed from the first filter chamber 42 through the opening 37 of the housing body 32 .

[0209] More preferably, the object filter element 144 is removably arranged in the second filter chamber 142 of the object filter device 140. Advantageously, after removing the collection chamber 60 and removing the particle filter element 44 of the particle filter device 40, the user can also remove the object filter element 144 from the second filter chamber 142 of the object filter device 140, thereby facilitating the cleaning process and / or replacement of the object filter element in the event that the object filter element 144 is damaged, such as, for example Fig.14 In particular, the object filter device 140 can be taken out of the second filter chamber 142 through the opening 37 of the housing body 32 .

[0210] A sealing element 47 , such as a plastic (ie polymer) O-ring, is preferably arranged between the particle filter element 44 of the particle filter device 40 and the housing body 32 in order to ensure water tightness of the first filter chamber 42 during the filtering process.

[0211] The particulate filter element 44 preferably extends toward a front portion of the housing body 32 of the particulate filter device 40 and preferably receives a portion of the collection chamber 60 therein.

[0212] This facilitates removal of the particulate filter element 44 , which a user may grasp after removing the collection chamber 60 .

[0213] As described above, the collection chamber 60 is configured to be removably coupled relative to the housing body 32 and Figures 7 to 14 In the preferred embodiment shown, the collection chamber 60 is connected to the housing body 32 by mechanical interference. In another preferred embodiment (not shown), the collection chamber can be removably coupled relative to the housing body, rather than directly coupling the collection chamber to the housing body. For example, the collection chamber can be removably coupled (e.g., screwed) to the front portion of the particulate filter element 44, rather than being coupled (e.g., screwed) to the housing body 32.

[0214] In the preferred embodiment shown herein, the housing 2 comprises an opening 7 such as Figure 1 As shown, the collecting chamber 60 and, in case of emergency, the filter element 44 , 144 of the particle filter device 30 are made accessible to a user from the outside.

[0215] The aperture 7 is preferably realized in the lower right side of the front side wall 2 a of the laundry washing machine 1 and is aligned with the filter assembly 30 .

[0216] The box 2 then preferably comprises an openable door 13 associated with the orifice 7 to allow access to this orifice.

[0217] According to the preferred embodiment described above, the particle filter element 44 of the particle filter device 40 and the object filter element 144 of the object filter device 140 are two separate elements preferably connected close to each other and with contact therebetween. In a further preferred embodiment, the particle filter element of the particle filter device and the object filter element of the object filter device can be realized as a single integral body. This simplifies the removal of the filter element from the housing body or the insertion of the filter element into the housing body.

[0218] Fig.15 A solution of this type is shown.In the drawings, corresponding features and / or components of previously described embodiments are identified with the same reference numerals.

[0219] Here, the particle filter element 44 ′ of the particle filter device 40 and the object filter element 144 ′ of the object filter device 140 are realized as a single one-piece body. This simplifies the removal of the filter elements 44 ′, 144 ′ from the housing body 32 or the insertion of the filter elements into the housing body 32 .

[0220] Fig.16 A schematic diagram showing another preferred embodiment of a laundry washing machine 200 according to the present invention is shown, and Fig.17 A cross-sectional view of a filter assembly 230 used in the laundry washing machine 200 is shown. In the accompanying drawings, Figures 1 to 14 Corresponding features and / or components of the embodiments described in the accompanying drawings are identified with the same reference numerals.

[0221] This other preferred embodiment of the present invention is similar to the previously mentioned Figures 1 to 14 The preferred embodiment described differs in that the laundry washing machine 200 comprises a drain system 20 , but it is not provided with any recirculation system. A filter assembly 230 is arranged between the main discharge conduit 22 of the drain system 20 and the drain pump 24 .

[0222] The filter assembly 230 is similar to the previously described Figures 1 to 14 The preferred embodiment described differs in that it comprises only a main outlet 36 for connection to the discharge pump 24, without the presence of further additional outlets.

[0223] When the exhaust system 20 is in operation, with the exhaust pump 24 enabled, liquid enters the second filter chamber 142 through the inlet 34, passes through the orifices 145, 45, enters the first filter chamber 42, undergoes the filtering action of the particulate filter element 44, leaves the filter assembly 30 through the main outlet 36, and is then discharged to the outside through the outlet pipe 26.

[0224] Advantageously, as described above, the liquid circulates inside the second filter chamber 142 before it reaches the first filter chamber 42, and thus the liquid is subjected to the filtering action of the object filter element 144 of the object filter device 140. Therefore, the liquid flowing through the filter assembly 30 and discharged to the outside is subjected to the action of both the object filter device 140 and the particle filter device 40.

[0225] It has thus been shown that the invention allows all the set objects to be achieved.In particular, the invention makes it possible to provide a laundry washing machine which reduces the construction complexity of the filter system and makes maintenance operations more comfortable compared to known laundry washing machines.

[0226] Although the present invention has been described with reference to the specific embodiments shown in the drawings, it should be noted that the present invention is not limited to the specific embodiments shown and described herein; on the contrary, further variations of the embodiments described herein fall within the scope of the present invention as defined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A laundry washing machine (1; 200), comprising: -Outer box (2); - a washing tub (3) comprising a washing drum (4) suitable for receiving laundry to be washed; - a liquid supply system (5) suitable for delivering liquid to the washing tub (3); - a discharge system (20) for discharging the liquid to the outside of the outer box (2); - a filter assembly (30; 230) arranged in the flow path between the liquid supply system (5) and the discharge system (20), the filter assembly (30; 230) comprising: - a housing body (32); - an inlet (34) for the liquid to be filtered; a particle filter device (40) comprising a first filter chamber (42) housed in the housing body (32), the first filter chamber (42) comprising a particle filter element (44) having a filter surface (46) on which particles accumulate while the liquid flows through the filter surface; - a main outlet (36) for filtered liquid, which main outlet is in hydraulic communication with the first filter chamber (42); a cleaning device (50) movably arranged in the first filter chamber (42) for removing particles accumulated on the filter surface (46), the cleaning device (50) moving the particles removed from the filter surface (46) towards a storage volume (61) of a collection chamber (60) arranged at one side of the first filter chamber (42) and communicating with the first filter chamber; It is characterized in that the filter assembly (30; 230) includes an object filter device (140), which includes a second filter chamber (142) accommodated in the shell body (32), and the second filter chamber (142) includes an object filter element (144), which is used to block objects contained in the liquid to be filtered when the liquid flows therethrough, wherein the object filter device (140) is arranged at a position opposite to the collection chamber (60) and is located between the inlet (34) and the particle filter device (40), and the second filter chamber (142) receives a portion (54) of the cleaning device (50) therein.

2. The washing machine (1; 200) according to claim 1, characterized in that The particle filter device (40) is a filter suitable for filtering particles having a minimum size between 0.1 μm and 5 mm, preferably between 10 μm and 100 μm, more preferably between 10 μm and 75 μm.

3. The washing machine (1; 200) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that The object filter device (140) is a filter suitable for filtering objects with a maximum size greater than 5 mm.

4. A washing machine (1; 200) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that The filter assembly (30; 230) is arranged in the exhaust system (20).

5. Washing machine (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that The liquid supply system (5) comprises at least one recirculation system (100; 120) for discharging liquid from a bottom area (3a) of the washing tub (3) to a second area (3b) of the washing tub (3), the at least one recirculation system (100, 120) comprising a recirculation pump (102, 122) arranged downstream of the filter assembly (30), and the filter assembly (30; 230) comprising a further outlet (38, 39) easily connectable to the recirculation pump (102, 122).

6. The washing machine (1) according to claim 5, characterized in that The further outlet (38, 39) is in hydraulic communication with the second filter chamber (142).

7. A washing machine (1; 200) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that The collection chamber (60) is configured to be removably coupled relative to the housing body (32).

8. Washing machine (1; 200) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that The cleaning device (50) comprises at least a portion (90) extending into the storage volume (61) of the collection chamber (60), whereby a removal aid (90) is provided for removing the cleaning device (50) from the housing body (32) when the collection chamber (60) is removed from the housing body (32).

9. Washing machine (1; 200) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that The particle filter element (44) is removably arranged in the first filter chamber (42), and / or the object filter element (144) of the object filter device (140) is removably arranged in the second filter chamber (142).

10. Washing machine (1; 200) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that The cleaning device (50) is configured to be removably coupled to the first filter chamber (42) and the second filter chamber (142).

11. Washing machine (1; 200) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that The cleaning device (50) comprises a rotatable element (51) adapted to remove particles accumulated on the filtering surface (46) of the particle filter element (44).

12. The washing machine (1; 200) according to claim 11, characterized in that The rotatable element (51) comprises a worm including a central axis body (52) and a helical element (56) surrounding the central axis body (52).

13. Washing machine (1; 200) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that The washing machine comprises an actuating device (70) for moving the cleaning device (50).

14. The washing machine (1; 200) according to claim 13, characterized in that The actuating device (70) is disposed at a position opposite to the collecting chamber (60).

15. Washing machine (1; 200) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that The cleaning device (50) and the collection chamber (60) are removably coupled to each other such that when the collection chamber (60) is removed from the housing body (32), the collection chamber (60) is disconnected from the cleaning device (50).

16. Washing machine (1; 200) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that The outer casing (2) further comprises an aperture (7) through which the collecting chamber (60) of the particle filter device (40) is accessible.

17. The washing machine (1; 200) according to claim 16, characterized in that The outer box (2) further comprises an openable door (13) associated with the aperture (7).

18. Washing machine (1; 200) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that The particulate filter element (44) is a disposable filter element.

Images