Particulate filter device for a laundry washing machine provided with a cleaning device and method for

Abstract

The present invention relates to a particulate filter device (30) comprising: a housing body (32); an inlet (34) for the liquid to be filtered; and an outlet (38) for the filtered liquid; the invention relates to a particulate filter comprising a housing body (32), a filter chamber (36) housed in the housing body (32), the filter chamber (36) comprising a particulate filter element (40) having a filter surface (42) on which particulate accumulates while the liquid flows through the filter surface. A cleaning device (50) is movably arranged in the filtration chamber (36) for removing particulates accumulated on the filtration surface (42), said cleaning device (50) moving particulates removed from said filtration surface (42) towards a storage volume (61) of a collection chamber (60) arranged at one side of and communicating with the filtration chamber (36). The collection chamber (60) is configured to be removably coupled with respect to the housing body (32), and the cleaning device (50) comprises at least a portion (90) extending into the storage volume (61) of the collection chamber (60), thereby providing a removal aid member (90) for removing the cleaning device (50) from the housing body (32) when the collection chamber (60) is removed from the housing body (32). A method for removing a cleaning device of a particulate filter device is also provided.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to the field of particle filtration systems, in particular in laundry washing machines.

[0002] In particular, the invention relates to a particle filter device for a laundry washing machine, wherein the particle filter device is provided with a cleaning device. The invention also relates to a method for removing the cleaning device. Background Art

[0003] Nowadays, the topic of microparticles / microplastics causing environmental pollution is a matter of particular concern to public opinion.

[0004] In particular, a major concern relates to the impact of microparticles / microplastics released from clothing on the environment.

[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] A first 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.

[0011] 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.

[0012] The particles removed from the membrane filter by the cleaning device are pushed toward 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 removed manually.

[0013] In such known systems for particle filtration, the removal of the collection chamber requires the user to take great care in handling the various parts of the machine. In practice, the collection chamber is in a wet or humid condition and the particles may be inadvertently dispersed in the environment. Heating devices for drying the particles in the collection chamber have been provided, however, such solutions require the provision of electrical arrangements that must be handled by the user in a humid environment. Therefore, a high level of difficulty must be overcome in order to properly design and provide an electrical system for drying the particles in the collection chamber in order to ensure a high level of safety for the user and the entire filtration device in terms of electrical and thermal risk prevention.

[0014] Furthermore, in such particulate filters, despite the wiping action of the cleaning device, the membrane filter may still suffer a certain level of clogging over time, resulting in technical difficulties in maintenance.

[0015] Another known system for particle filtering 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 element through an opening made in the outer wall of the washing machine to allow maintenance operations and replacement operations on the filter group. The assembly is arranged on the lower right side of the machine, and the discharge hose extends vertically until the upper end of the discharge hose protrudes outside the machine.

[0016] The drain pump group is also located along the drain hose and connected to the filter assembly. When the drain pump group is in operation, the filter group filters the liquid, which is then discharged to the outside through the drain hose. When the drain pump group is not in operation, such as at the end of a wash cycle, a user can intervene by removing the filter assembly from the wall of the laundry washing machine for maintenance.

[0017] A disadvantage of this system occurs when there may still be residual liquid in the filter body housing after the discharge pump unit has stopped. The residual liquid may favour the growth of bacteria and yeasts, which may impair sanitary conditions and / or may cause odours.

[0018] Another disadvantage of the known system arises when the filter assembly is removed from the wall of the washing machine casing. In fact, after the discharge pump assembly has stopped, there may still be residual liquid in the filter body. When the filter assembly is removed from the washing machine, said residual liquid may overflow outside the machine and eventually drip onto the floor. This makes maintenance operations inconvenient for the user, since he must regularly perform filter cleaning and / or replacement operations, which may result in a highly humid environment, with the risk of soiling the washing machine or even scattering the collected particles around the washing machine.

[0019] It is therefore an object of the present invention to overcome the disadvantages associated with the known art.

[0020] It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide a solution that allows maintenance operations on the filter element, such as cleaning or replacement operations on the filter element.

[0021] 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.

[0022] Yet another object of the invention is to reduce the risk of fouling when operating the particle filter device.

[0023] Another object of the present invention is to provide a solution making it possible to reduce the proliferation of bacteria and / or yeasts and thus improve hygiene conditions. Summary of the invention

[0024] The applicant has found that the stated objects can be achieved by providing a particle filter device having a particle filter element and a cleaning device, the particle filter element having a filter surface on which particles accumulate while liquid flows through the filter surface, the cleaning device for removing particles accumulated on the filter surface and moving the particles towards a collection chamber, and by providing the cleaning device with a portion extending into the collection chamber.

[0025] Thus, in a first aspect of the invention, the invention relates to a particulate filter device for a laundry washing machine, the particulate filter device comprising:

[0026] - housing body;

[0027] - an inlet for the liquid to be filtered;

[0028] a filter chamber housed in the housing body, the filter chamber comprising a particle filter element having a filter surface on which particles accumulate while the liquid flows through the filter surface;

[0029] - an outlet for filtered liquid;

[0030] a cleaning device movably arranged in the 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 collection chamber arranged at one side of the filter chamber and communicating with the filter chamber;

[0031] wherein the collection chamber is configured to be removably connected relative to the shell body, and wherein the cleaning device includes at least a portion extending into the storage volume of the collection chamber, thereby providing a removal aid for removing the cleaning device from the shell body when the collection chamber is removed from the shell body.

[0032] 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.

[0033] In a preferred embodiment, the collecting chamber is embodied as a cap for closing an opening provided in the housing body.

[0034] In a preferred embodiment, the portion of the cleaning device extending into the storage volume provided 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. This advantageously contributes to increasing the number of laundry treatments that the machine can perform without emptying the collection chamber.

[0035] 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.

[0036] 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).

[0037] 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.

[0038] Preferably, the filter chamber is formed by a portion of the housing body.

[0039] In a preferred embodiment, the particle filter element is removably arranged in the filter chamber.

[0040] Advantageously, the particulate filter element may be removed from the filter chamber and housing body for appropriate cleaning procedures or replacement, if necessary.

[0041] 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.

[0042] 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.

[0043] Preferably, the cleaning device is configured to be removably coupled to the filter chamber.

[0044] Advantageously, the cleaning device can be easily removed from the filter chamber, so that the particle filter element and its filter surface are advantageously accessible from the outside. Thus, the user can advantageously reach the particle filter element and its filter surface for a suitable cleaning process.

[0045] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the cleaning device comprises a rotatable element which facilitates the removal of particles accumulated on the filter surface.

[0046] In a preferred embodiment, the rotatable element comprises a worm including a first stub shaft body, a second stub shaft body, and a helical element connecting the stub shaft bodies and surrounding the main axis.

[0047] Preferably, the rotatable element further comprises a central shaft body extending along the main axis between the first end shaft body and the second end shaft body, wherein the helical element surrounds the central shaft body.

[0048] 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.

[0049] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the spiral element extends at least partially into the collecting chamber.

[0050] Advantageously, particles moving towards the collection chamber are compressed in the collection chamber, thereby maximizing the storage volume of particles inside the collection chamber.

[0051] In another preferred embodiment, the cleaning device comprises a translatable element arranged for wiping one side of the filter surface, said translatable element preferably comprising a piston.

[0052] Preferably, actuating means are provided for moving the cleaning means.

[0053] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the actuating means comprises an electric motor.

[0054] In a preferred embodiment, the cleaning device and the collecting chamber are removably coupled to each other, such that the collecting chamber is disconnected from the cleaning device when the collecting chamber is removed from the housing body.

[0055] In another alternative preferred embodiment, the cleaning device and the collecting chamber are removably connected to each other by means of a releasable locking device, such that the cleaning device and the collecting chamber can be disconnected from each other by releasing the releasable locking device after integral removal from said housing body.

[0056] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the collecting chamber is screwable to the housing body.

[0057] Advantageously, the collecting chamber can be easily disconnected / connected to the housing body.

[0058] In a preferred embodiment, the particulate filter element is a disposable filter element.

[0059] According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the particle filter device further comprises a second outlet, which is arranged in the sump portion of the housing body and downstream of the particle filter element. The second outlet is arranged to discharge the filtered liquid collected in the sump portion from the sump portion to the outside of the housing body.

[0060] Preferably, filtered liquid flows through the second outlet when liquid flow entering the inlet of the particulate filter device passes through the particulate filter element, or when there is no liquid flow entering the inlet and a quantity of filtered liquid is received in the sump portion.

[0061] Advantageously, when the particle filter device is not in operation, the residual liquid inside the filter chamber leaves the second outlet and is discharged to the outside of the housing body, so that the filter chamber remains completely empty. Removing any residual liquid in the filter chamber avoids the growth of bacteria and / or yeast, thereby improving hygiene conditions and preventing odors.

[0062] Preferably, the particle filter device is a filter adapted to retain 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.

[0063] 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.

[0064] In another aspect, the present invention relates to a method for removing a cleaning device of a particle filter device realized as described above, wherein the method comprises the following steps:

[0065] removing the collection chamber from the housing body;

[0066] The cleaning device is removed from the housing body by means of the removal aid.

[0067] In a preferred embodiment, the step of removing the cleaning device from the housing body by means of a removal aid is performed after the step of removing the collecting chamber from the housing body, wherein the removal aid is accessible to a user after the collecting chamber has been removed.

[0068] In another preferred alternative embodiment, the step of removing the collecting chamber from the housing body and the step of removing the cleaning device from the housing body are performed simultaneously, wherein the collecting chamber and the removal aid component remain engaged when the collecting chamber is removed from the housing body. In this case, preferably, the method further comprises the step of disengaging the removal aid component from the collecting chamber after the removal aid component and the collecting chamber have been removed simultaneously from the housing body.

[0069] According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, if the particulate filter device comprises a second outlet, filtered liquid collected in the sump portion of the housing body is discharged to the outside of the housing body through the second outlet before the step of removing the collecting chamber from the housing body.

[0070] Advantageously, the filter chamber remains completely empty, thereby avoiding the growth of bacteria and / or yeasts, thus improving hygiene and preventing odours. 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 3 A particulate filter device isolated from the rest of a laundry washing machine;

[0076] - Figure 5 yes Figure 4 A longitudinal cross-sectional view of a particulate filter device;

[0077] - Figure 6 The first operating position is shown Figure 5 a particulate filter device;

[0078] - Figure 7 Shows Figure 5 An exploded view of a particulate filter assembly;

[0079] - Figure 8 shows a longitudinal cross-sectional view of another embodiment of a particulate filter device of the present invention, the particulate filter device being in a first operating position;

[0080] - Fig. 9 Shows Figure 8 Magnified details of

[0081] - Fig.10 A further embodiment of an element of a particle filter device according to the invention is shown;

[0082] - Fig.11 Another embodiment of a particle filter device according to the present invention is shown. Figure 5 Another embodiment of;

[0083] - Fig.12 A schematic diagram showing a laundry washing machine of the present invention according to another embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0084] - Fig.13 Another embodiment of a particle filter device according to the present invention is shown. Figure 4 Another embodiment of;

[0085] - Fig.14 yes Fig.13 A longitudinal cross-sectional view of a particulate filter device;

[0086] - Fig.15 The first operating position is shown Fig.14 a particulate filter device;

[0087] - Fig.16 Shows Fig.14 An exploded view of a particulate filter assembly;

[0088] - Fig.17 A schematic diagram of a laundry washing machine of the present invention is shown according to another embodiment of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0089] Figures 1 to 3 A laundry washing machine 1 is shown equipped with a particulate filter arrangement 30 according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

[0090] Figures 4 to 7 A particulate filter arrangement 30 according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0091] The particle filter device 30 according to the present invention is 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 particle filter device of the present invention can be applied to laundry washing and drying machines.

[0092] 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.

[0093] Both the washing tub 3 and the washing drum 4 preferably have a substantially cylindrical shape.

[0094] The cabinet 2 is provided at its front side wall 2a with a loading / unloading door 8 allowing access to the washing drum 4 .

[0095] 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.

[0096] 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.

[0097] 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.

[0098] In further embodiments, other types of heating devices may advantageously be placed in the machine 1 to heat the liquid.

[0099] Preferably, the laundry washing machine 1 comprises means 19 adapted to sense (or detect) the liquid level inside the washing tub 3 .

[0100] 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.

[0101] 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.

[0102] A liquid supply system generally refers to any system that facilitates the supply of water or any liquid into a bucket.

[0103] 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.

[0104] Preferably, the process reagent dispenser 14 comprises a removable drawer 6 provided with various compartments suitable for filling with process reagents.

[0105] 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.

[0106] 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.

[0107] 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.

[0108] 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.

[0109] The laundry washing machine 1 preferably comprises a drain system 20 for draining liquid outside the cabinet 2 to a drain (not shown). More preferably, the drain system 20 extracts liquid from the bottom area 3a of the washing tub 3 and drains it outside the cabinet 2.

[0110] The exhaust system 20 preferably includes a main pipe 22 , a exhaust pump 24 , and an outlet pipe 26 terminating outside the tank 2 .

[0111] Preferably, the discharge pump 24 is a centrifugal pump provided with a rotating member or impeller that moves liquid to the pump fluid outlet 24a.

[0112] The discharge system 20 preferably further includes an object filter device 28 disposed between the main conduit 22 and the discharge pump 24 .

[0113] The object filter device 28 is adapted to stop objects before they reach the discharge pump 24. The purpose of the object filter device 28 is to trap unwanted objects that could damage the discharge pump 24, such as the impeller in the case of a centrifugal pump design.

[0114] 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.

[0115] Preferably, the object filter device 28 is adapted to filter objects having a maximum dimension greater than 5 mm.

[0116] In a preferred embodiment, the object filter device preferably comprises a housing having a shell in which the object filter element is received. The shell preferably forms a channel through which the liquid to be filtered flows. The object filter element is preferably provided with a tortuous structure, for example in the form of tabs, which are arranged along the channel when the object filter element is placed in the housing, thereby creating a labyrinthine path through which the liquid flows while the objects are blocked by the tabs.

[0117] For cleaning purposes, the object filter device 28 can be removed from the housing and the box 2, preferably through an openable shutter 13, which is advantageously placed on the front side wall 2a of the box 2, such as Figure 1 shown.

[0118] The object filter device 28 and the corresponding shutter 13 are arranged in the lower part of the laundry washing machine 1 , more preferably in the lower right side of the laundry washing machine 1 .

[0119] The drain pump 24 and the object filter device 28 are preferably implemented as an assembly, for example by directly connecting the drain pump 24 to a housing defining a housing of the object filter device 28 .

[0120] The main conduit 22 preferably connects the bottom area 3 a of the washing tub 3 to the object filter arrangement 28 .

[0121] In another embodiment (not shown), the housing of the object filter device can be directly arranged in the washing tub, preferably obtained in a one-piece construction with the washing tub. In this case, the object filter device is fluidically connected to the outlet of the washing tub in a manner that the liquid discharged from the washing tub enters the object filter device.

[0122] Activation of the drain pump 24 drains liquid (ie, water or water mixed with washing and / or rinsing products) from the washing tub 3 to the outside.

[0123] 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.

[0124] According to an aspect of the invention, the particulate filter device 30 is preferably associated with a laundry washing machine 1 .

[0125] according to Figures 1 to 3 In the preferred embodiment shown, the particle filter device 30 is preferably arranged in the tank 2, in the flow path between the water supply system 5 and the exhaust system 20. Preferably, the particle filter device 30 is arranged in the exhaust system 20, preferably along the outlet conduit 26 of the exhaust system 20, more preferably in the portion of the outlet conduit 26 contained in the volume defined by the tank 2.

[0126] The particulate filter device 30 is then preferably arranged downstream of the fluid outlet 24 a of the discharge pump 24 .

[0127] Thus, before the liquid reaches the drain outside the machine 1 , the liquid undergoes a filtering process, thereby preventing particles from leaving the laundry washing machine 1 .

[0128] The particulate filter device 30 is configured to retain particles having a minimum size between 0.1 μm and 5 mm, preferably a minimum size between 10 μm and 100 μm, more preferably a minimum size between 10 μm and 75 μm.

[0129] 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.

[0130] Therefore, the particulate filter device 30 advantageously acts as a microplastic filter device 30 .

[0131] Particulate filter device 30 is preferably disposed downstream of object filter device 28, or in other words, object filter device 28 is preferably disposed upstream of particulate filter device 30 to advantageously prevent coarse material from reaching particulate filter device 30 to potentially damage the particulate filter device.

[0132] Will refer to Figures 4 to 7 The particulate filter device 30 according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention will be described in more detail.

[0133] The particulate filter device 30 preferably exhibits an elongated shape and preferably extends along a main axis X.

[0134] The particulate filter device 30 comprises a housing body 32 which is preferably made of a plastic material, ie a polymer material.

[0135] according to Figures 1 to 7The preferred embodiment shown, the particulate filter device 30 is preferably arranged in the upper part of the laundry washing machine 1, more preferably in the upper right side of the laundry washing machine 1. Positioning the particulate filter device 30 in the upper position enhances user interaction with the particulate filter device 30.

[0136] The particulate filter device 30 is preferably vertically aligned with the exhaust pump 24 to keep the length of the piping connecting the exhaust pump 24 to the particulate filter device 30 as short as possible, thereby reducing the strength of the pump 24 .

[0137] The particle filter device 30 comprises an inlet 34 for the liquid to be filtered, a filter chamber 36, and an outlet 38 for the filtered liquid.

[0138] An inlet 34 of the particle filter device 30 is connected to a first portion 26a of the outlet duct 26 and an outlet 38 of the particle filter device 30 is connected to a second portion 26b of the outlet duct 26 which preferably protrudes from the housing 2 , preferably from a rear side wall of the housing 2 .

[0139] The second portion 26b of the outlet duct 26 preferably comprises an end connector on an outer surface of the cabinet 2 , preferably the rear wall, to hydraulically connect the laundry washing machine 1 to a sewer external to the machine 1 .

[0140] A first portion 26 a of the outlet conduit 26 fluidly connects the exhaust pump 24 and the particulate filter device 30 .

[0141] Filter chamber 36 (in Figure 7 A particle filter element 40 ) is received therein, which has a filter surface 42 at which particles accumulate while liquid flows through the filter surface.

[0142] The amount of volume enclosed by the housing body 32 defines a filter chamber 36 .

[0143] The filter chamber 36 is therefore accommodated in the housing body 32 .

[0144] The filter chamber 36 is preferably cylindrical in shape and the particle filter element 40 preferably has a cylindrical tubular shape. The filter chamber 36 and the particle filter element 40 preferably extend along the main axis X. The filter surface 42 preferably comprises a plurality of grids 42a, more preferably rectangular grids 42a (e.g. Figure 7 (see ).

[0145] The meshes 42a are preferably implemented using braided wire. In a preferred embodiment, the wire is made of polyethylene. The plurality of meshes 42a may be provided by one or more braided wire layers covering a plurality of openings formed in the body portion of the particle filter element 40.

[0146] 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.

[0147] The particle filter element 40 preferably defines an unfiltered volume 43 which is apt to receive liquid from the inlet 34 which has not yet been subjected to liquid filtering. According to the preferred embodiment presented here, the unfiltered volume 43 corresponds to the cylindrical inner volume of the particle filter element 40. Under normal operating conditions of the particle filter device 30, liquid is supplied from the inlet 34 into the unfiltered volume 43 and then undergoes filtration by passing through the particle filter element 40, in particular through the mesh 42a. Thus, the filtered liquid reaches an elongated annular chamber 44 which is radially outside the particle filter element 40 and forms part of the filtration chamber 36. The elongated annular chamber 44 is in hydraulic communication with the outlet 38 of the particle filter device 30.

[0148] As liquid flows through the particulate filter element 40 , particulates gradually accumulate on the filter surface 42 .

[0149] The extension of the filter chamber 36 along the main axis X substantially corresponds to the filter area defined by the particle filter element 40 , more preferably by said mesh 42 a .

[0150] However, the filter chamber 36 may include portions extending outside the filter region and preferably used for assembling the particulate filter element (eg, for receiving a sealing element as described later, or for connecting the particulate filter element to other parts of the particulate filter device).

[0151] The particle filter device 30 is equipped with a cleaning device 50 which is configured to remove particles accumulated on a first side of the filter surface 42 of the filter element 40 which the liquid encounters when passing through said filter surface 42 .

[0152] The cleaning device 50 is preferably arranged inside the particle filter element 40 to move the particles removed from the filter surface 42 towards the storage volume 61 of the collection chamber 60. The collection chamber 60 is arranged at one side of the filter chamber 36, in particular the end side, and communicates therewith.

[0153] 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 42, preferably a first side of the filter surface 42, where the liquid encounters and the particles accumulate. More preferably, the rotatable element 51 can be implemented as a worm having a first end shaft body 52, a second end shaft body 54, and a spiral element 56 connecting the end shaft bodies 52, 54 and surrounding the main axis X.

[0154] The main axis X corresponds to the direction through which the rotatable element 51 extends. In the preferred embodiment described herein, the main axis X preferably coincides with the main axis X of the particulate filter device 30.

[0155] The spiral element 56 is preferably a circular spiral element 56. Hence, the central part of the rotatable element 51 embodied as a worm between the stub bodies 52, 54 and surrounded by the spiral element 56 is hollow, so that the rotatable element 51 is embodied as a hollow worm.

[0156] 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 42 of the particle filter element 40, 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 acting as a screw conveyor.

[0157] 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.

[0158] Preferably, the spiral element 56 of the rotatable element 51 has its end portion 56 a extending at least partially into the storage volume 61 of the collecting chamber 60 .

[0159] Advantageously, the particles moving towards the collection chamber 60 are pressed into the storage volume 61 by the end portion 56a of the rotatable element 51. The particles are preferably pressed inside the storage volume 61, thereby removing excess liquid contained therein, causing it to flow back into the filtration chamber 36. This maximizes the storage capacity of the particles inside the storage volume 61 and provides easy removal of the dried, compacted particulate matter.

[0160] The rotation of the rotatable element 51 is preferably obtained by means of an actuating device 70 .

[0161] The actuating device 70 is preferably arranged at said first stub shaft body 52 of the rotatable element 51 and preferably comprises an electric motor 72 having a rotatable shaft 74 cooperating with the first stub shaft body 52 of the rotatable element 51 .

[0162] An interconnection device 76 is preferably arranged between the first end 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 filter chamber 36, as better described later.

[0163] Preferably, the interconnection device 76 comprises a joint element 78 which is rotatably mounted on the housing body 32 of the particulate filter device 30 via a ball bearing 80. The joint element 78 comprises a first end 82 connected to the shaft 74 of the motor 72 and a second end having a seat 84 for receiving the first end shaft body 52 of the rotatable element 51. The seat 84 and the first end shaft body 52 of the rotatable element 51 are complementary in shape, for example using a cylindrical shape with a flat portion, so that when the rotatable element 51 is working / rotating, the seat and the first end shaft body can rotate together, and when the rotatable element 51 stops, the seat and the first end shaft body can be disconnected, preferably by removing the rotatable element 51 from the seat 84 while pulling the rotatable element 51 in the direction of the main axis X.

[0164] According to an 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 serves as a cap for the opening 37, thereby closing the opening when the collection chamber is coupled to the housing body 32.

[0165] according to Figures 4 to 7 In the preferred embodiment shown, the collection chamber 60 is preferably threadable to the housing body 32. The external threads 62 of the collection chamber 60 preferably engage with the internal threads 64 on the housing body 32 of the particulate filter device 30.

[0166] Preferably, the collection chamber 60 can be screwed to the housing body 32 in a first direction (preferably clockwise), and the rotatable element 51 is also operated / rotated in the same first direction. Advantageously, the risk of disconnecting the collection chamber 60 from the housing body 32 (e.g. unscrewing the collection chamber from the housing body) when the rotatable element 51 is operated / rotated is prevented.

[0167] In further preferred embodiments, the collection chamber may be configured to be removably coupled to the housing body 32 via a push or snap action.

[0168] 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.

[0169] according to Figures 4 to 7 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 filter chamber 36 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 5% 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.

[0170] Preferably, the portion 90 comprises an elongated pin at the second end shaft body 54 of the rotatable element 51. The elongated pin 90 is preferably realized integrally with the rotatable element 51.

[0171] The elongated pin 90 and the collecting chamber 60 are preferably removably coupled to each other. The elongated pin 90 is preferably received in a support seat 63 which is realized in the storage volume 61 of the collecting chamber 60 .

[0172] As the rotatable element 51 rotates, the elongated pin 90 rotates within the support mount 63. The support mount 63 preferably acts as a centering device while the rotatable element 51 is operating / rotating.

[0173] The shapes of the support bracket 63 and the elongated pin 90 are determined (for example, both are cylindrical in shape) so that when the rotatable element 51 rotates, the elongated pin 90 can rotate relative to the support bracket 63, and when the collection chamber 60 is removed from the shell body 32 (for example, unscrewed), the collection chamber 60 can disengage from the elongated pin 90.

[0174] 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 .

[0175] When the collection chamber 60 is removed (e.g., unscrewed) from the housing body 32, as shown in FIG. Figure 6As shown, the elongated pin 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 filter chamber 36. In particular, the rotatable element 51 can be removed from the filter chamber 36 by removing the rotatable element 51 through the opening 37 of the housing body 32.

[0176] In fact, the elongated pin 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 .

[0177] like Figure 6 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 volume 61 from the collecting chamber.

[0178] 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 formed by the elongated pin 90 .

[0179] The particle filter element 40 and its filtering surface 42 are advantageously accessible from the outside after the rotatable element 51 has been completely removed from the housing body 32. The user can reach the particle filter element 40 and its filtering surface 42 in order to carry out a suitable cleaning process, which may be carried out after a relatively long operating time in which the rotatable element 51 wipes one side of the filtering surface 42.

[0180] More preferably, the particle filter element 40 is removably arranged in the filter chamber 36. Advantageously, after removing the collecting chamber 60, the user can also take the particle filter element 40 out of the filter chamber 36, thus facilitating a cleaning process and / or replacement of the particle filter element in the event that the particle filter element 40 is worn or damaged, such as for example Figure 7 In particular, the particle filter element 40 can be removed from the filter chamber 36 through the opening 37 of the housing body 32 .

[0181] according to Figures 4 to 7 In the preferred embodiment shown, the particle filter element 40 is preferably removably received in the housing body 32 of the particle filter device 30 and can preferably be inserted and removed along the main axis X, in particular through the opening 37 of the housing body 32. Thus, the particle filter element 40 can be embodied as a disposable filter element, which can be replaced at any time when necessary.

[0182] Sealing elements 46a, 46b, such as plastic (ie polymer) O-rings, are preferably arranged between the particle filter element 40 and the housing body 32 in order to ensure water tightness of the filter chamber 36 during the filtering process.

[0183] The particulate filter element 40 preferably extends toward a front portion of the housing body 32 of the particulate filter device 30 and preferably receives a portion of the collection chamber 60 therein.

[0184] This facilitates removal of the particulate filter element 40 , which a user may grasp after removing the collection chamber 60 .

[0185] Preferably, a sealing element 47 , such as a plastic (ie polymer) O-ring, is arranged between the particle filter element 40 and the collecting chamber 60 to ensure water tightness of the filter chamber 36 during the filtering process.

[0186] As described above, the collection chamber 60 is configured to be removably coupled relative to the housing body 32 and Figures 4 to 7 In the preferred embodiment shown, the collection chamber 60 can be directly connected (e.g., screwed) to the housing body 32 via the external threads 62 and the internal threads 64. In other preferred embodiments (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, rather than being coupled (e.g., screwed) to the housing body.

[0187] In the preferred embodiment shown herein, the housing 2 comprises an opening 7 such as Figure 1 As shown, the collection chamber 60 of the particulate filter device 30 is made accessible to a user from outside the housing 2 .

[0188] The aperture 7 is preferably realized at the upper right side of the front side wall 2 a of the laundry washing machine 1 and is aligned with the particle filter device 30 .

[0189] The collection chamber 60 is preferably arranged to close the aperture 7 of the housing 2 so that it is directly accessible to a user from a portion of the housing that remains exposed to user interaction.

[0190] More preferably, the particle filter device 30 is arranged relative to said aperture 7 of the housing 2 such that an exposed surface 65 of the collecting chamber 60 preferably fits flush with the front side wall 2a of the housing 2 of the laundry washing machine 1 .

[0191] Therefore, most of the particulate filter device 30 is preferably arranged inside the housing 2. The user-accessible portion of the collection chamber 60 (eg, the exposed surface 65 flush with the front side wall 2a of the housing 2) may not be arranged inside the housing 2.

[0192] In another preferred embodiment (not shown), the housing may include an openable door associated with the aperture 7 to provide access to the aperture and enable the particulate filter device to be preferably placed completely inside the housing.

[0193] Figure 8 and Fig. 9 A further preferred embodiment of the invention is shown, which differs from the previously described preferred embodiment in that a rotatable element 151 forming part of a cleaning device 150 (which is still implemented as a worm including a spiral element 56) and a collecting chamber 160 of a particle filter device 130 are removably connected to each other, so that when the collecting chamber 160 is removed from the filter chamber 36, the rotatable element 151 preferably remains connected to the collecting chamber 160, after which the collecting chamber 160 can be removed from the rotatable element 151.

[0194] In the accompanying drawings, corresponding features and / or components of the previously described first embodiment are identified with the same reference numerals.

[0195] According to this preferred embodiment, the elongated pin 190 of the rotatable element 151 and the collection chamber 160 are preferably removably connected to each other.

[0196] like Fig. 9 As shown, the elongated pin 190 is removably connected to the first connecting element 164 via a removable locking device 165 .

[0197] The releasable locking means 165 preferably comprises a releasable bayonet-like locking system.

[0198] The first connecting element 164 is rotatably mounted on the second connecting element 163, which is fixedly mounted on the collecting chamber 160. The second connecting element 163 is disposed in the storage area 161 of the collecting chamber 160.

[0199] When the rotatable element 151 rotates, the elongated pin 190 and the first connecting element 164 rotate together relative to the second connecting element 163 and the collection chamber 160 .

[0200] When the collection chamber 160 is removed (e.g., unscrewed) from the housing body 32, the collection chamber 160 remains engaged with the elongated pin 190. When the collection chamber 160 is removed (e.g., unscrewed) from the housing body 32, the elongated pin 190 remains engaged with the collection chamber 160, thus providing a removal aid 190 for removing the rotatable element 151 from the housing body 32 and the filter chamber 36.

[0201] exist Figure 8 In the illustrated operating position, which refers to a maintenance phase of the laundry washing machine 1, the collecting chamber 160 and the rotatable element 151 are completely removed from the housing body 32, so that the particle filter element 40 and its filtering surface 42 are advantageously accessible from the outside. The particle filter element 40 and its filtering surface 42 can be reached by a user in order to carry out a suitable cleaning process, which may be carried out after a relatively long operating time in which the rotatable element 151 wipes one side of the filtering surface 42. More preferably, as described above, the particle filter element 40 is removably arranged in the filter chamber 36, so that a user can remove the particle filter element 40 from the filter chamber 36, thus facilitating a cleaning process and / or a replacement of the particle filter element in case the particle filter element 40 is worn or damaged.

[0202] Furthermore, once the collecting chamber 160 has been removed (eg unscrewed) from the filter chamber 36 , the collecting chamber 160 can be removed from the elongated pin 190 and hence from the rotatable element 151 by removing the elongated pin 190 from the first element 164 via the releasable locking device 165 .

[0203] Therefore, the particles stored in the storage area 161 may be removed from the collection chamber 160 .

[0204] Fig.10 An alternative preferred embodiment of a rotatable element 251 of the invention is shown, which rotatable element forms part of a cleaning device 250, which differs from the previously described preferred embodiments in that the rotatable element 251 is not a hollow worm.

[0205] The rotatable element 251 comprises a central shaft body 252 extending between the end shaft bodies 52, 54 along the main axis X and a helical element 256 surrounding the central shaft body 252, preferably made integrally with the central shaft body 252. The helical element 256 is preferably a circular helical element 256. According to this embodiment, the helical element 256 substantially defines a helicoidal surface.

[0206] In the preferred embodiments described above, the cleaning device preferably comprises a rotatable element, in particular a worm, which is provided with a portion which acts as a removal aid.

[0207] In further preferred embodiments, the cleaning device may preferably comprise a translatable element that wipes one side of the filtering surface of the particle filter member.

[0208] Fig.11 This type of solution is shown by way of example. In the accompanying drawings, Figure 5 Corresponding features and / or components of the embodiments described in the accompanying drawings are identified with the same reference numerals.

[0209] In the particulate filter device 330 according to this embodiment, the cleaning device 350 includes a translatable element 351 .

[0210] The translatable element 351 preferably comprises a piston that reciprocates linearly along the main axis direction X.

[0211] The piston 351 preferably includes a head portion 354 and a main shaft 356. The outer surface of the head portion 354 wipes one side of the filtering surface 42 of the particle filter element 40. The particles removed from the filtering surface 42 are moved toward the collection chamber 60 by the translational movement of the piston 351.

[0212] The reciprocating linear motion of the piston 351 is preferably obtained by an actuating device 370 .

[0213] The actuating device 370 preferably cooperates with the main shaft 356 of the piston 351 and preferably includes two wheels 358b, 358b which engage the main shaft 356 and rotate appropriately to move the piston 351 back and forth.

[0214] According to the invention, the translatable element 351 is further provided with a portion 390 which acts as a retrieval aid 390 , as explained above.

[0215] In the preferred embodiments described above, the particulate filter device is associated with a laundry washing machine so as to be preferably arranged within a cabinet of the laundry washing machine.

[0216] In a further preferred embodiment, the particle filter device may be configured to be mounted to the outside of the cabinet wall and may be fluidly connected to the laundry washing machine exhaust system. In this way, the particle filter device may be easily disposed of by a user when it is necessary to remove particles accumulated in the particle filter device. In addition, by providing the particle filter device mounted to one side of the cabinet wall (i.e., outside the internal volume defined by the laundry washing machine cabinet wall), the particle storage capacity of the filter device may be increased so as to prolong the operation of the filter device before particle removal intervention is required.

[0217] Fig.12 This type of solution is shown by way of example. Figure 5 Corresponding features and / or components of the described first embodiment are identified with the same reference numerals.

[0218] According to this embodiment, the particulate filter device 430 is implemented as a unit provided to the laundry washing machine 400 by being mounted to the outer side of the wall of the outer case 2. The particulate filter device 430 is preferably mounted to the outer case 2 of the laundry washing machine 400 by a connecting device 450 (e.g., an L-shaped bracket or a hooking device). The particulate filter device 430 preferably (but not necessarily) includes an external housing 452, and the external housing is preferably connectable / connectable to the outer case 2 of the laundry washing machine 400 by the connecting device 450. In another embodiment, the housing body 32 of the particulate filter device 430 may be provided with a connecting member (such as an eyelet) so as to allow the housing body 32 to be mounted to the outer case 2 of the laundry washing machine 400.

[0219] The particulate filter device 430 may be implemented according to the preferred embodiments described above (eg, the particulate filter devices 30 , 130 , 330 shown and described above).

[0220] According to this embodiment, the inlet 34 of the particulate filter device 430 is preferably connected to the second portion 26 b of the outlet duct 26 protruding from the tank 2 , preferably via a suitable hydraulic connector 456 .

[0221] The outlet 38 of the particulate filter device 430 is arranged for hydraulic connection to a sewer external to the machine 400 , preferably via an outlet conduit 454 .

[0222] Thus, before the liquid reaches the drain outside the machine 400 , the liquid undergoes a filtering process by means of the particle filter device 430 , thereby preventing particles from leaving the laundry washing machine 400 .

[0223] In a preferred embodiment, the outer housing 452 preferably includes an aperture (not shown) such that a user can access the collection chamber of the particulate filter device 430 from outside the outer housing 452. The collection chamber is preferably arranged to close the aperture of the outer housing 432 such that the user can directly access the collection chamber from a portion of the outer housing 452 that is still exposed to user interaction.

[0224] More preferably, the particulate filter device 430 is arranged relative to the aperture of the outer housing 432 such that the exposed surface 65 of the collection chamber 60 preferably fits flush with the side wall of the outer housing 452 .

[0225] Thus, the majority of the particulate filter device 430 is preferably disposed within the outer housing 452. In another preferred embodiment, the outer housing 452 may include an openable door associated with the aperture to provide access to the aperture and allow the particulate filter device to be preferably completely disposed within the outer housing 452.

[0226] According to this embodiment, advantageously, an existing laundry washing machine may be equipped with a particle filter arrangement according to the present invention preventing particles from leaving the laundry washing machine.

[0227] Figures 13 to 16 Another preferred embodiment of the particle filter device 530 of the present invention is shown, which is similar to the previously described embodiment of the particle filter device 530 of the present invention. Figures 4 to 7 The depicted preferred embodiment differs in that the particulate filter device 530 further comprises a second outlet 502 .

[0228] In the accompanying drawings, corresponding features and / or components of the previously described first embodiment are identified with the same reference numerals.

[0229] Preferably, the second outlet 502 is arranged in a liquid stagnation or sump portion 33 of the particulate filter housing body 32. The liquid stagnation or sump portion 33 is preferably implemented as a funnel-shaped portion of the main body 32.

[0230] Preferably, the body of the second outlet 502 is disposed downstream of the particulate filter element 40 so that the liquid reaching the sump portion 33 is filtered liquid.

[0231] According to an aspect of the present invention, the second outlet 502 is provided for discharging the filtered liquid collected in the sump portion 33 from the sump portion to the outside of the housing body 32, as will be better described later.

[0232] When the particle filter device 530 is in operation, the liquid to be filtered is delivered to the inlet 34 of the particle filter device 530, and the filtered liquid is then discharged through the outlet 38, as has been described above with reference to the particle filter device 30 ( Figures 1 to 3 ) or with reference to the particulate filter device 430 ( Fig.12 ) is broadly interpreted.

[0233] The liquid to be filtered flows into the particulate filter device 530 through the inlet 34, then undergoes a filtering process through the particulate filter element 44, and then is discharged through the outlet 38. According to this embodiment, when the particulate filter device 530 is in operation, the liquid that has undergone a filtering process through the particulate filter element 44 is also discharged through the second outlet 502.

[0234] When the particulate filter device 530 is not in operation, for example after the washing cycle has terminated, the liquid to be filtered is no longer delivered to the inlet 34 of the particulate filter device 530 .

[0235] The filtered liquid having undergone the filtering process through the particulate filter element 44 inside the filter chamber 36 falls into the sump portion 33 of the housing body 32 by means of gravity, thereby defining residual liquid.

[0236] Residual liquid in the sump portion 33 is advantageously drained through the second outlet 502 and out of the body 32 of the particulate filter device 530 .

[0237] Advantageously, the liquid that is discharged through the second outlet 502 and out of the body 32 is filtered liquid, regardless of whether the particulate filter device 530 is operating or not operating.

[0238] Still advantageously, when the particle filter device 530 is not in operation, and according to an advantageous aspect of the invention, the residual liquid inside the filter chamber 36 is drained from the sump portion 33 through the second outlet 502 and out of the body 32 of the particle filter device 530. The filter chamber 36 is thus kept completely empty and dry.

[0239] Removing any residual liquid in the filter chamber 36 avoids the growth of bacteria and / or yeast, thereby improving sanitation and preventing odors.

[0240] Furthermore, removing any residual liquid in the filter chamber 36 avoids the possibility that liquid may spill to the outside and eventually drip onto the floor when the collection chamber 60 is removed (preferably unscrewed) from the housing body 32, and / or when the rotatable element 51 is removed from the filter chamber 36, and / or when the particle filter element 40 is removed from the filter chamber 36.

[0241] The particulate filter device 530 according to this embodiment and according to an aspect of the invention is preferably associated with a laundry washing machine.

[0242] For example, Fig.17 As shown, the particulate filter device 530 can be mounted to the outside of the cabinet wall of the laundry washing machine 600 and can be fluidly connected to the laundry washing machine exhaust system. In this way, as described above, when it is necessary to remove the particulates accumulated in the particulate filter device, the user can easily handle the particulate filter device 530. In addition, by providing a particulate filter device mounted to one side of the cabinet wall (i.e., outside the interior volume defined by the laundry washing machine cabinet wall), the particulate storage capacity of the filter device can be increased to extend the operation of the filter device before particulate removal intervention is required.

[0243] In a further preferred embodiment (not shown), the particulate filter device may preferably be arranged within the cabinet of the laundry washing machine and fluidly connected to the laundry washing machine exhaust system.

[0244] exist Fig.17 In the above description, especially with reference to Figure 2 Corresponding features and / or components of the laundry washing machine of the described first embodiment are identified with the same reference numerals.

[0245] According to this embodiment, the particulate filter device 530 is implemented as a unit provided to the laundry washing machine 600 by being mounted to the outer side of the wall of the outer case 2. The particulate filter device 530 is preferably mounted to the outer case 2 of the laundry washing machine 600 by a connecting device 550 (e.g., an L-shaped bracket or a hooking device). The particulate filter device 530 preferably (but not necessarily) includes an external housing 552, and the external housing is preferably connectable / connectable to the outer case 2 of the laundry washing machine 600 by the connecting device 550. In another embodiment, the housing body 32 of the particulate filter device 530 may be provided with a connecting member (such as an eyelet) so as to allow the housing body 32 to be mounted to the outer case 2 of the laundry washing machine 600.

[0246] The particulate filter device 530 may preferably be configured as described above with reference to Figures 13 to 16 The preferred embodiment described is implemented.

[0247] According to this embodiment, the inlet 34 of the particulate filter device 530 is preferably connected to the second portion 26 b of the outlet duct 26 protruding from the tank 2 , preferably via a suitable hydraulic connector 556 .

[0248] Outlet 38 of particulate filter device 530 is preferably arranged for hydraulic connection to a sewer external to machine 600 , preferably via outlet conduit 554 .

[0249] The second outlet 502 of the particulate filter device 530 is preferably configured for fluid connection to an external sewer. In the preferred embodiment illustrated herein, the second outlet 502 is preferably configured for hydraulic connection to an outlet conduit 554 , preferably via an appropriate hydraulic connector 558 .

[0250] In a preferred embodiment, the outer housing 552 preferably includes an aperture (not shown) such that a user can access the collection chamber of the particulate filter device 530 from outside the outer housing 552. The collection chamber is preferably arranged to close the aperture of the outer housing 552 such that the user can directly access the collection chamber from a portion of the outer housing 552 that is still exposed to user interaction.

[0251] More preferably, the particulate filter device 530 is arranged relative to the aperture of the outer housing 552 such that the exposed surface 65 of the collection chamber 60 preferably fits flush with the side wall of the outer housing 552 .

[0252] Thus, the majority of the particulate filter device 530 is preferably disposed within the outer housing 552. In another preferred embodiment, the outer housing 552 may include an openable door associated with the aperture to provide access to the aperture and allow the particulate filter device to be preferably completely disposed within the outer housing 552.

[0253] According to this embodiment, advantageously, an existing laundry washing machine may be equipped with a particle filter arrangement according to the present invention preventing particles from leaving the laundry washing machine.

[0254] In another preferred embodiment (not shown), a manual valve is preferably associated with the second outlet. In this case, the user can decide whether or when the second outlet must perform its function of draining residual liquid from the body of the particle filter device.

[0255] It has thus been shown that the invention allows achieving all the set objects. In particular, with respect to known laundry washing machines, the invention makes it possible to provide a particle filter device that allows maintenance of the particle filter element, such as cleaning operations or replacement operations of the filter element.

[0256] 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 particle filter device (30) for a laundry washing machine (1), the particle filter device (30) comprising: - a housing body (32); - an inlet (34) for the liquid to be filtered; a filter chamber (36) housed in the housing body (32), the filter chamber (36) comprising a particle filter element (40) having a filter surface (42) on which particles accumulate while the liquid flows through the filter surface; - an outlet (38) for the filtered liquid; a cleaning device (50) movably arranged in the filter chamber (36) for removing particles accumulated on the filter surface (42), the cleaning device (50) moving the particles removed from the filter surface (42) towards a storage volume (61) of a collection chamber (60) arranged at one side of the filter chamber (36) and communicating with the filter chamber; Characterized in that the collection chamber (60) is configured to be removably connected relative to the shell body (32), and the cleaning device (50) includes at least a portion (90) extending into the storage volume (61) of the collection chamber (60), thereby providing a removal auxiliary component (90) for removing the cleaning device (50) from the shell body (32) when the collection chamber (60) is removed from the shell body (32).

2. The particle filter device (30) according to claim 1, characterized in that The particulate filter element (40) is removably disposed in the filter chamber (36).

3. A particle filter device (30) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that The cleaning device (50) is configured to be removably coupled to the filter chamber (36).

4. The particle filter device (30) according to claim 3, characterized in that The cleaning device (50) comprises a rotatable element (51) adapted to remove particles accumulated on the filtering surface (42).

5. The particle filter device (30) according to claim 4, characterized in that The rotatable element (51) comprises a worm, which comprises a first stub shaft body (52), a second stub shaft body (54), and a helical element (56) connecting the stub shaft bodies (52, 54) and surrounding a main axis (X).

6. The particle filter device (30) according to claim 5, characterized in that The rotatable element (251) further comprises a central shaft body (252) extending along the main axis (X) between the first and second end shaft bodies (52, 54), the spiral element (256) surrounding the central shaft body.

7. A particle filter device (30) according to claim 5 or 6, characterized in that The spiral element (56, 256) extends at least partially into the collection chamber (60).

8. The particle filter device (330) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that The cleaning device (350) comprises a translatable element (351) arranged to wipe one side of the filtering surface (42).

9. A particle filter device (30) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that The particle filter device comprises an actuating device (70) for moving the cleaning device (50).

10. The particle filter device (30) according to claim 9, characterized in that The actuating device (70) comprises an electric motor (72).

11. A particle filter device (30) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterised 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).

12. A particle filter device (30) according to any one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that The cleaning device (150) and the collection chamber (160) are removably connected to each other by means of a releasable locking device (165), so that the cleaning device and the collection chamber can be disconnected from each other by releasing the releasable locking device (165) after being removed as a whole from the housing body (32).

13. A particle filter device (30) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that The collection chamber (60) is screwable to the housing body (32).

14. A particle filter device (30) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that The particulate filter element (40) is a disposable filter element.

15. A particle filter device (530) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that The particulate filter device further comprises a second outlet (502) arranged in the sump portion (33) of the housing body (32) and downstream of the particulate filter element (40), the second outlet (502) being arranged to discharge filtered liquid from the sump portion (33) to the outside of the housing body (32).

16. The particle filter device (530) according to claim 15, characterized in that When liquid flow entering the inlet (34) passes through the particulate filter element (40), or when no liquid flow enters the inlet (34) and a quantity of filtered liquid is received in the sump portion (33), filtered liquid flows through the second outlet (502).

17. A particle filter device (30) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that The particle filter device (30) 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.

18. A method for removing a cleaning device (50) of a particle filter device (30) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that The method comprises the following steps: removing the collection chamber (60) from the housing body (32); The cleaning device (50) is removed from the housing body (32) by means of the removal aid (90).

19. The method according to claim 18, characterized in that The step of removing the cleaning device (50) from the housing body (32) by means of the removal aid component (90) is performed after the step of removing the collection chamber (60) from the housing body (32), wherein the removal aid component (90) is accessible to a user after the collection chamber (60) has been removed.

20. The method according to claim 18, characterized in that The step of removing the collecting chamber (160) from the shell body (32) and the step of removing the cleaning device (150) from the shell body (32) are performed simultaneously, wherein when the collecting chamber (160) is removed from the shell body (32), the collecting chamber (160) and the removal auxiliary member (190) remain engaged.

21. The method according to claim 20, characterized in that The method further includes the step of disengaging the retrieval aid member (190) from the collection chamber (160) after the retrieval aid member (190) and the collection chamber (160) have been simultaneously removed from the housing body (32).

22. The method according to any one of claims 18 to 21, wherein: The particulate filter device (30) is implemented according to claim 15 or 16, characterized in that before the step of removing the collecting chamber (60) from the shell body (32), the filtered liquid collected in the sump portion (33) of the shell body (32) is discharged to the outside of the shell body (32) through the second outlet (502).

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