Ventilation module of clothes treatment equipment and clothes treatment equipment

Abstract

The invention provides a ventilation module of clothes treatment equipment, which comprises a condensation air duct, a condensation mechanism which enables a humid air circulation path to be longer than the condensation air duct is arranged in the condensation air duct, and the ventilation module further comprises a drainage structure for draining condensate water. The invention further provides a laundry treating apparatus provided with the ventilation module. According to the ventilation module of the clothes treatment equipment and the clothes treatment equipment, the structure is simple, electric parts are not needed, the condensation air channel is arranged, humid air is condensed and cooled in the condensation air channel, condensate water is drained in time, and the problems that condensate water is accumulated and bacteria are bred at the whole ventilation module are solved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of clothing processing equipment technology, and in particular to a ventilation module and clothing processing equipment for clothing processing. Background Technology

[0002] Currently, the ventilation modules of drum washing machines achieve deodorization and freshness of clothes by intelligently opening and closing the air ducts and allowing convection ventilation inside the drum after washing. Existing washing machine ventilation modules mostly use a motor-driven magnet control mode for opening and closing, which solves technical problems such as noise leakage and water splash sealing, but the structure is complex and the cost is high.

[0003] Currently, commonly used ventilation module structures include... Figure 1 As shown, the system mainly consists of a housing 1', a damper plate 2', a magnet 3', a micro switch 4', a bidirectional motor 5', and a top cover 6'. The damper plate 2' is mounted to the housing 1' via a rotating shaft, allowing the damper plate 2' to rotate and open / close, thus opening and closing the ventilation channel. Pairs of magnets 3' are mounted on the damper plate 2' and the housing 1' respectively, and their magnetic poles are controlled by the bidirectional motor 5'. Specifically, during the washing process, the bidirectional motor 5' controls the paired magnets 3' to be opposite poles, attracting each other. The damper plate 2' moves closer under this attraction, closing and isolating splashes and foam, as well as blocking noise. After washing, the bidirectional motor 5' controls the paired magnets 3' to be like poles, repelling each other. The damper plate 2' moves away from each other under this repulsive force, opening and closing the ventilation channel, ensuring smooth airflow. This ventilation module structure uses a motor to drive the magnets, achieving precise opening and closing control through magnetic pole changes. However, it also suffers from structural complexity, assembly difficulties, and the need for an additional motor.

[0004] To address the aforementioned pain points, simply removing all electronic components from the traditional ventilation module and keeping it constantly open will cause condensation to form on the door frame and front panel during high-temperature washing cycles due to the excessively high internal air temperature. This results in a poor user experience, and the areas where condensation frequently occurs remain damp, making them prone to bacterial growth and causing further inconvenience.

[0005] This paper proposes a ventilation module technology for drum washing machines based on a mechanical structure, which can prevent the formation of condensate and does not rely on an electronic control system, thus significantly reducing costs. Summary of the Invention

[0006] The technical problem to be solved by the present invention is to overcome the shortcomings of the prior art and provide a ventilation module and clothing processing equipment for clothing processing. The structure is simple and does not require electrical components. By setting up a condensing air duct, the humid air is condensed and cooled in the condensing air duct and the condensate is discharged in time, which solves the problem of condensate accumulation and bacterial growth in the entire ventilation module.

[0007] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention first provides a ventilation module for a garment processing device, employing the following technical solution:

[0008] A ventilation module for a garment processing device includes a condensing duct, a condensing mechanism within which a path for humid air to circulate is longer than the length of the condensing duct, and a drainage structure for discharging condensate.

[0009] Furthermore, the condensation mechanism includes at least one condensation plate disposed between the air inlet and the air outlet of the condensation duct. At least one end of the condensation plate is connected to the duct wall of the condensation duct, and at least one end is spaced apart from the duct wall of the condensation duct to form a flow gap for air circulation. The humid air changes its flow direction at the flow gap.

[0010] Furthermore, the air inlet and air outlet are respectively located on two opposite walls of the air duct;

[0011] Alternatively, the air inlet and air outlet are located on the same duct wall of the condenser duct.

[0012] Furthermore, the air inlet and air outlet are respectively set on two opposite air duct walls, and on the same side of the condensing air duct, at least one layer of the condensing plate is set along the transverse direction of the condensing air duct.

[0013] Alternatively, the air inlet and air outlet are located on two opposite walls of the condensing duct and on different sides of the condensing duct; or, the air inlet and air outlet are located on the same wall of the condensing duct, at least one layer of the condensing plate is arranged longitudinally along the condensing duct and spaced apart from the air inlet and air outlet.

[0014] Furthermore, fins are provided on the condenser plate and / or the wall of the condenser duct.

[0015] The ventilation module of the clothing processing equipment as described in claim 5 is characterized in that: the fin length on the bottommost condenser plate is less than the fin length on the topmost condenser plate or the top wall of the condenser duct.

[0016] Preferably, the condenser plate is inclined, the fins on the same layer of the condenser plate are of different lengths, and the bottom surfaces of each fin are on the same horizontal plane or the line connecting the bottom surfaces of the fins is parallel to the bottom wall of the condenser duct.

[0017] Furthermore, the condenser plate is inclined, with its lowest point facing the drainage structure;

[0018] Preferably, when a condensation plate is provided, the flow gap is located above the drainage structure;

[0019] When multiple condenser plates are provided, the flow gaps of each condenser plate are staggered, the flow gap of the bottom condenser plate is located above the drainage structure, and the other condenser plates are provided with water guiding structures.

[0020] Furthermore, the condensation mechanism is a box-shaped structure, embedded in the condensation duct. The box has an air inlet and an air outlet communicating with the condensation duct. At least one condensation plate is provided inside the box, parallel to the top wall and / or bottom wall of the box. The condensation plate is fixed to the side wall of the box and has a flow gap between one end and the side wall of the box. The flow gaps of adjacent condensation plates are staggered, so that the top wall, bottom wall and multiple condensation plates of the box form a continuous S-shaped air path.

[0021] Furthermore, the air inlet is located at a position away from the flow gap of the bottommost condenser plate.

[0022] Another objective of this invention is to provide a garment processing device, which adopts the following technical solution:

[0023] A garment processing device includes a ventilation module as described above.

[0024] In summary, the ventilation module and clothing processing equipment provided by this invention are based on the traditional electrical ventilation module, with optimized design, eliminating all electronic components and having the function of preventing condensation. While retaining the "breathing" function of the ventilated drum washing machine, it brings significant cost reduction potential. Attached Figure Description

[0025] Figure 1 : A schematic diagram of the ventilation module structure in the prior art;

[0026] Figure 2 : A three-dimensional view of the ventilation module provided by this invention (cut open at the condenser duct);

[0027] Figure 3 Schematic diagram of the placement of the condenser plate in the condenser duct of the ventilation module provided by this invention. Figure 1 ;

[0028] Figure 4 Schematic diagram of the condenser plate arrangement direction and airflow path in the ventilation module provided by this invention. Figure 2 ;

[0029] Figure 5 Schematic diagram of the condenser plate arrangement direction and airflow path in the ventilation module provided by this invention. Figure 3 ;

[0030] Figure 6 : Side sectional view of the condenser duct of the ventilation module provided by the present invention;

[0031] Figure 7 : A cross-sectional view of the condensate duct of the ventilation module provided by this invention (close to the rear wall);

[0032] Figure 8 : Schematic diagram of the water guiding structure in the ventilation module provided by the present invention;

[0033] The components include: 1. Condensation duct; 11. Condensation mechanism; 111. Condensation plate; 112. Fins; 113. Box body; 12. Air inlet; 13. Air outlet; 2. Air outlet channel; 3. Water guiding structure; 31. Water guiding plate; 32. Water guiding step; 4. Reinforcing rib; 5. Horizontal reinforcing rib; 6. Buckle; 7. Screw post; 8. Water guiding part;

[0034] 1′, Housing; 2′, Damper; 3′, Magnet; 4′, Microswitch; 5′, Bidirectional motor; 6′, Top cover.

[0035] It should be noted that these accompanying drawings and textual descriptions are not intended to limit the scope of the invention in any way, but rather to illustrate the concept of the invention to those skilled in the art by referring to specific embodiments. Detailed Implementation

[0036] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of the embodiments of the present invention clearer, the technical solutions in the embodiments will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. The following embodiments are used to illustrate the present invention, but are not intended to limit the scope of the present invention.

[0037] In the description of this invention, it should be noted that the terms "upper", "lower", "front", "rear", "left", "right", "vertical", "inner", "outer", etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They are only for the convenience of describing this invention and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limiting this invention.

[0038] In the description of this invention, it should be noted that, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," and "joining" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this invention based on the specific circumstances.

[0039] The present invention first provides a ventilation module for a clothing processing device, including a condensing air duct 1, a condensing mechanism 11 provided in the condensing air duct 1 to make the air circulation path longer than the length of the condensing air duct, and a drainage structure for discharging condensate.

[0040] Taking a traditional drum washing machine as an example, this invention provides a ventilation module for a clothing processing device and the specific structure of the clothing processing device. The washing machine includes a casing, an inner drum and an outer drum disposed inside the casing, the inner drum and the outer drum being fitted together, and the rear wall being connected to a motor. Driven by the motor, the clothes and washing water rotate inside the outer drum.

[0041] Front-loading washing machines are equipped with steam generators or heating devices for high-temperature washing or drying. An exhaust system is installed inside the casing to expel hot, humid air from the outer drum to the outside of the machine.

[0042] Air vents are provided on the outer cylinder and the casing respectively. The air inlet of the exhaust device is connected to the air vent on the outer cylinder, and the air outlet is connected to the air vent on the casing through the ventilation module provided by this invention, so that the inside of the outer cylinder is connected to the outside of the casing.

[0043] Installing an exhaust system inside a drum washing machine to expel humid air from the outer drum is a conventional technique. The duct connection method, duct structure, airflow direction, and fan configuration of the exhaust system can utilize existing conventional technologies without restrictions or limitations. Any existing or future technologies are applicable to this invention and will not be elaborated upon. It should be noted that the humid air includes, but is not limited to, the high-temperature, high-humidity air during high-temperature washing and / or drying, as well as the high-humidity air during regular washing, collectively referred to as humid air. During the rotation of the inner drum, it drives airflow, especially during the spin-drying process, which in turn drives airflow within the outer drum. This flowing air, rich in moisture, enters the exhaust system through the outer drum and is ultimately discharged outside the machine casing from the ventilation module.

[0044] In this invention, the ventilation module includes a condenser duct 1, the air inlet of the condenser duct 1 is connected to the air outlet of the exhaust device, and the air outlet is connected to the air vent at the casing, so that the exhaust device, the ventilation module and the environment outside the casing are connected.

[0045] A condensing mechanism 11 is installed inside the condensing air duct 1. Air entering the condensing air duct 1 is cooled by the condensing mechanism 11, generating condensate in the condensing air duct 1. This ensures that the air is cooled and dehumidified after passing through the condensing air duct 1, and when it is discharged from the air outlet, it is close to room temperature with significantly reduced humidity, preventing condensation at the air vents on the casing. Generally, the air vents on the casing are located at the front panel; therefore, condensate will not form on the inner frame of the washing machine door or the front panel.

[0046] A drainage structure is installed inside the condenser duct 1. The condensate water that flows through the condenser mechanism 11 is collected and discharged through the drainage structure. The drainage structure can be directly connected to the washing machine's drainage device, or it can be connected to any water collection container installed inside the washing machine, without any requirements or restrictions.

[0047] Regarding the condensation mechanism 11 inside the condensation duct 1, the following embodiment is provided:

[0048] Example 1

[0049] The washing machine includes a refrigeration cycle system, which comprises a compressor, a condenser, a throttling device, and an evaporator connected by pipes. The evaporator can serve as a heating device or a steam generator. The condenser is embedded in the condensing duct 1, acting as the condensing mechanism 11 described in this invention, to cool and dehumidify the humid air entering the condensing duct 1. By controlling the refrigerant flow, the evaporator is kept at a high temperature during high-temperature washing or drying, while the condenser is kept at a low temperature. The condenser, embedded in the condensing duct 1, cools and dehumidifies the discharged high-temperature, high-humidity gas.

[0050] The condensing mechanism 11 can be a common finned condenser, which is embedded in the condensing air duct 1. Specifically, the finned condensing mechanism 11 can fill the entire internal space of the condensing air duct 1. Moist air passes between the fins and the condensing tubes, cools down, and generates condensate.

[0051] Alternatively, the condensation mechanism 11 is located at a distance from the air inlet 12 of the condensation duct 1 to prevent condensate formed at the connection between the condensation duct 1 and the air inlet channel 2 from entering the exhaust device through the air inlet 12 and accumulating in the exhaust device, or flowing back into the inner cylinder.

[0052] Preferably, the finned condenser includes a condensing coil, with fins fitted onto the condensing coil. The fins in adjacent rows are staggered, so that when air flows through the condenser, turbulence is formed between the fins, and the path of air flow becomes tortuous, thereby extending the length of the air path. The path of air flow is longer than the overall length of the air path in the condensing duct (referring to the conventional flow path from the air inlet to the air outlet).

[0053] The condenser mechanism 11 of the washing machine's built-in refrigeration cycle device is set inside the condenser duct 1. During the heating process, the condenser mechanism 11 simultaneously cools and dehumidifies the humid air entering the exhaust device and ventilation module, eliminating the need for additional cooling and dehumidifying devices inside the condenser duct 1 and reducing product costs.

[0054] Example 2

[0055] The condensation mechanism 11 includes a condensation plate 111, which is arranged laterally (horizontally or parallel to or nearly parallel to the bottom and / or top wall of the condensation duct 1) within the condensation duct 1. In this embodiment, only one condensation plate 111 is arranged within the condensation duct 1.

[0056] The three sides of the condenser plate 111 are respectively assembled and fixed to the duct wall of the condenser duct 1, with an airflow gap left between the last side and the corresponding duct wall of the condenser duct 1. Specifically, the duct wall includes four vertically arranged side walls connected end to end, and a top wall and a bottom wall connected to the top and bottom of the side walls. Steps are provided on the three interconnected side walls of the condenser duct 1, and the bottom surface of the condenser plate 111 rests on the steps, so that the three sequentially connected side ends of the condenser plate 111 abut against the side walls of the condenser duct 1, with a flow gap left between the last side end and the corresponding side wall of the condenser duct 1 for airflow; or a slot is provided on the side wall of the condenser duct 1, and the condenser plate 111 is snapped into the condenser duct 1.

[0057] Alternatively, at least one end of the condenser plate 111 may be fixed to or integrally formed with the sidewall, and at least one end may have a flow gap with the sidewall, while the remaining ends may simply abut against the sidewall without needing to be fixed. Preferably, a sealing strip is provided between the sidewall of the condenser duct 1 and the corresponding condenser plate 111 that abuts against it to prevent wind noise caused by the abutment gap.

[0058] The end of the condenser plate 111 at the flow gap is designated as the free end, and the end opposite the free end is designated as the fixed end. This fixed end is fixed to the side wall of the condenser duct 1. Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, an air inlet 12 is provided on the bottom wall of the condenser duct 1 on the fixed end side of the condenser plate 111, that is, an air inlet 12 is opened at the lower part of the bottom wall or side wall of the condenser duct 1 away from the flow gap.

[0059] The condenser plate 111 horizontally divides the space within the condenser duct 1 into upper and lower sections, which are connected by a flow gap. Air entering the condenser duct 1 through the air inlet 12 travels along the space between the bottom surface of the condenser plate 111 and the bottom wall of the condenser duct 1. At the flow gap, the airflow direction changes, and the air travels along the flow gap towards the space between the top surface of the condenser plate 111 and the top wall of the condenser duct 1. By setting the condenser plate 111, the space within the condenser duct 1 is divided into a U-shaped airflow path, increasing the length of the airflow path. By increasing the length of the airflow path, the heat exchange time is increased and the heat exchange efficiency is improved.

[0060] As the humid air travels in a U-shape, it continuously exchanges heat with the condenser plate 111, generating condensate on the surface of the condenser plate 111 and the inner wall of the condenser duct 1. The top wall of the condenser plate 111 and / or the bottom wall of the condenser duct 1 are inclined to facilitate the flow and convergence of condensate.

[0061] The condenser plate 111 is made of a material with high heat exchange efficiency, such as aluminum or aluminum alloy. During operation, the air exchanges heat with the bottom and top surfaces of the condenser plate 111, thereby improving the heat exchange efficiency of the condenser plate 111, reducing the amount of condenser plate 111 used, and lowering costs.

[0062] Example 3

[0063] The condensation mechanism 11 is basically the same as the overall structure of Embodiment 2. The difference is that multiple condensation plates 111 are set in the condensation duct 1. Each condensation plate 111 is arranged parallel or approximately parallel to each other. The spacing between each condensation plate 111 is the same and they are staggered.

[0064] The staggered arrangement refers to the alternating arrangement of the fixed ends and free ends of the condenser plates 111. From bottom to top, the fixed end of the bottommost condenser plate 111 is located at the air inlet 12, the fixed end of the condenser plate 111 above it is located above the flow gap of the bottommost plate, and the fixed end of the third layer of condenser plates 111 is located above the flow gap of the second layer of condenser plates 111, and so on, with the fixed ends and free ends of each layer arranged accordingly. Figure 1 As shown, the flow gaps corresponding to each layer of condenser plate 111 are staggered. For example, the flow gap corresponding to the bottommost condenser plate 111 is located on the right side of the condenser duct 1, the flow gap corresponding to the next layer of condenser plate 111 is located on the left side of the condenser duct 1, the flow gap corresponding to the next layer of condenser plate 111 is located on the right side of the condenser duct 1 again, and so on, so that a continuous S-shaped air path is formed between each layer of condenser plate 111 and between the condenser plate 111 and the top / bottom wall of the condenser duct 1.

[0065] When multiple layers of condenser plates 111 are installed, the humid air exchanges heat with the bottom and top surfaces of the two adjacent layers of condenser plates 111 simultaneously during operation, resulting in high heat exchange efficiency and good dehumidification effect.

[0066] In this embodiment, since multiple layers of condenser plates 111 are provided, in order to avoid water accumulation at the connection between the fixed end of each layer of condenser plates 111 above the bottom layer and the side of the condenser duct 1, a U-shaped groove or other type of water guiding structure is provided at the fixed end of the condenser plate 111, and the condensate is discharged from the U-shaped groove / water guiding structure.

[0067] Example 4

[0068] The condensation mechanism 11 adopts the condensation plate 111 as described in Embodiment 2 or Embodiment 3.

[0069] To improve the condensation and dehumidification effect, fins 112 are provided on the condenser plate 111. Preferably, to improve air circulation efficiency and drainage effect, multiple fins 112 are provided only on the bottom surface of the condenser plate 111.

[0070] The fin 112 is made of the same material as the condenser plate 111 and is integrally formed with the condenser plate 111. A gap is left between the bottom of the fin 112 and the bottom wall of the lower condenser plate 111 or the condenser duct 1 to allow air circulation.

[0071] Fins 112 can be provided on both sides of the condenser plate 111. Preferably, in this embodiment, multiple rows of fins 112 are provided only on the bottom surface of the condenser plate 111.

[0072] Each row consists of a single fin 112. Preferably, each row has multiple fins 112 with gaps between adjacent fins 112 to improve airflow efficiency. More preferably, the fins 112 in adjacent rows are staggered, so that the airflow is obstructed at the fins 112 during the flow process, resulting in small stream diversions and turbulence during the airflow process. This increases the probability and contact time between the air and the fins 112 and the condenser plate 111, thereby improving heat exchange efficiency.

[0073] The fins 112 can be arranged regularly on the bottom surface of the condenser plate 111, such as parallel to each other. In practical applications, the fins 112 can also be arranged according to a predetermined rule, or even randomly, including but not limited to parallel arrangement, to increase the turbulence effect.

[0074] Furthermore, in addition to setting fins 112 on the condenser plate 111, fins 112 can also be set on the wall of the condenser duct 1 to increase the dehumidification effect of the condenser duct. When setting fins 112 on the wall of the condenser duct 1, the position, angle and corresponding structure of the fins 112 are set based on facilitating the discharge of condensate.

[0075] Furthermore, the condenser plate 111 is inclined, and the bottom condenser plate is inclined downward from the fixed end to the free end. That is, the longitudinal height between the condenser plate 111 and the condenser duct 1 decreases linearly from the fixed end to the free end.

[0076] The fins 112 on the condenser plate 111 are of different lengths, gradually becoming shorter from the fixed end to the free end, and the bottom surfaces of the fins 112 are on the same horizontal plane, or the bottom edge of the fins 112 is parallel to the bottom wall of the condenser duct 1.

[0077] Example 5

[0078] The condensation mechanism 11 described in Embodiment 4 includes condenser plates 111 and fins 112. In this embodiment, the fins 112 are parallel to each other, and each fin 112 is inclined. The fins 112 of adjacent rows of condenser plates 111 are arranged in a counter-rotating manner, meaning that the upper and lower layers of fins 112 are arranged in opposite directions and inclined in different directions. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the fins 112 are inclined towards the windward side to increase the contact area between the air and the fins 112 and improve the heat exchange efficiency. Preferably, the inclination angle of the fins 112 is within the range of 45° to 60°.

[0079] Preferably, at the flow gap at the free end of the condenser plate 111, corresponding to the upper condenser plate 111, an inclined fin 112 is provided, and the extended surface of the windward side of the fin 112 is tangent to the free end face of the lower condenser plate 111.

[0080] As described in Embodiment 5, the condenser plate 111 is inclined, and the length of the fins 112 on the condenser plate 111 gradually increases from the low point to the high point in the inclined direction. The bottom surface of the fins 1124 of each layer of condenser plate 111 is on the same horizontal plane, or the bottom edge of the fins 112 is parallel to the bottom wall of the condenser duct 1.

[0081] Example 6

[0082] In this embodiment, the condensation mechanism 11 is a box-shaped structure, which is embedded in the condensation duct 1. The outer wall of the box is in close contact with the inner wall of the condensation duct 1. The bottom and top walls of the box have corresponding through holes that communicate with the air inlet 12 and air outlet 13 of the condensation duct 1. The structure of the through holes is the same as that of the air inlet 12 and air outlet 13. A sealing strip is provided at the connection to prevent humid air from entering the gap between the box 113 and the condensation duct 1, where condensate water accumulates or wind noise is generated.

[0083] The housing is made of aluminum or aluminum alloy, which have high heat exchange efficiency. Moisturized air is cooled upon contact with the side walls of the housing, condenses into water on the inner wall of the housing, and is eventually discharged. Inclined fins 112 or similar raised structures can be installed on the side walls of the housing to increase the heat exchange area and improve heat exchange efficiency.

[0084] Preferably, one or more condenser plates 111 are provided inside the box, and the condenser plates 111 are integrally formed with the side wall of the box. Similarly, as described in Embodiments 2 and 3, a flow gap is provided between the free end of the condenser plate 111 and the side wall of the box 113. By providing the condenser plate 111 and the flow gap, a U-shaped or continuous S-shaped airflow path is formed inside the box 113.

[0085] The housing and condenser plate are made of the same high-thermal-conductivity material, such as aluminum or aluminum alloy, allowing humid air to come into contact with the condenser plate 111, the bottom wall, top wall, and side walls of the housing for heat exchange during circulation. This further improves heat exchange efficiency.

[0086] The box and condenser plate 111 are made of aluminum or aluminum alloy, with high smoothness and low surface tension, which can accelerate the dripping speed of condensation.

[0087] The bottom wall of the box is horizontal, and the top wall is an arched structure, that is, the top wall is an upward arc-shaped protrusion, which prevents the condensation on the top wall from always condensing on the top wall and not dripping down due to surface tension.

[0088] Fins 112 or protruding structures with the same function as fins 112 can be provided on any side wall of the box.

[0089] Implementation of 7

[0090] In this embodiment, the condensation mechanism 11 adopts the box structure described in Embodiment 6, with at least one condensation plate 111 disposed inside the box, and fins 112 as described in Embodiment 4 or Embodiment 5 disposed on the condensation plate 111.

[0091] In this embodiment, taking the example of setting a condenser plate 111 inside the box, the specific structure of the condensation mechanism 11 in this embodiment is introduced.

[0092] The box body, condenser plate 111, and fins 112 are integrally formed. Inclined fins 112 are arranged on the bottom surface of condenser plate 111 and the bottom surface of top wall of box body. The vertical length of fins 112 is about 1 / 3 to 1 / 2 of the height between bottom wall of box body and condenser plate 111. It is recommended that the end of fins 112 is on the horizontal midline between bottom wall of box body and condenser plate 111.

[0093] Preferably, the length of the fins 112 on the condenser plate 111 is shorter than the length of the fins 112 on the top wall of the box. This increases the heat exchange area and efficiency before the air flows out of the condenser mechanism 11, thus accelerating the cooling and dehumidification process. The top wall of the box has an arched structure, further providing space for extending the length of the fins 112. The lengths of the fins 112 on the top wall are different, but the ends of the fins 112 are on the same horizontal plane.

[0094] When multiple condenser plates 111 are installed inside the box, the length of the fins 112 installed on the top wall of the box (topmost condenser plate 111) is greater than the length of the fins 112 installed on the bottom surface of the bottommost condenser plate 111. The air inlet 12 and the air outlet 13 are both located on the bottom or top wall away from the flow gap of this layer.

[0095] Example 8

[0096] In this embodiment, the box body of embodiment six or seven is integrated with the condensing air duct 1, that is, the side wall of the condensing air duct 1 is the side wall of the box body. The condensing air duct 1 is made of aluminum or aluminum alloy. The condensing plate 111 is directly fixed to the side wall of the condensing air duct 1 or integrally formed. Inclined fins 112 are provided on the bottom surface of the arched top wall.

[0097] The above describes different structural configurations of the condensing mechanism 11 installed within the condensing duct 1. In practical applications, embodiments one to eight can be combined arbitrarily to obtain the desired specific structure of the condensing mechanism 11, all of which are within the protection scope of this invention. Furthermore, in the structure of the condensing mechanism 11 described in embodiments two to eight, the condensing duct 1 is generally a rectangular box-shaped structure. In practical applications, the condensing duct 1 can be any structure, including but not limited to rectangular, cylindrical, elliptical cylinder, and multifaceted cylinder. Based on the specific structure of the condensing duct 1 and the relative positional relationship between the air inlet 12 and the air outlet 13, the end of the condensing plate 111 is fixed to the duct wall of the condensing duct 1, and at least one end is left with a flow gap for the humid gas to change direction between it and the corresponding duct wall.

[0098] Furthermore, the different condensation mechanisms 11 provided in Embodiments 1 to 7 can be applied in the condensation duct 1 provided in Embodiment 8 (only the duct, excluding internally fixed or integrally formed fins), i.e., as Figure 2 As shown, the condensing air duct 1 is a box-like structure with an arched top surface, an air inlet on the bottom wall, and an air outlet on the top wall. The condensing mechanism 11 provided in embodiments one to seven is set inside the box structure.

[0099] The top wall of the box is an upward-convex arch, and the bottom wall is flat. Preferably, the top surface of the bottom wall is sloped, with the lowest point located at the drainage structure to facilitate the collection of condensate. The condenser plate 111 is also inclined within the condensation duct 1, allowing condensate condensing on its top surface to slide down. Figure 2 As shown, the bottommost condenser plate 111 is inclined towards the drainage structure, that is, the height between the condenser plate 111 and the bottom wall of the condensation duct 1 decreases linearly from the fixed end to the free end, so that the condensate condensed on the condenser plate 111 flows along the top surface of the condenser plate 111 under the action of gravity, and finally drips at the free end, dripping directly into the drainage structure, or dripping onto the bottom wall and then flowing into the drainage structure.

[0100] When multiple layers of condenser plates 111 are installed in the condenser duct 1, the multiple layers of condenser plates 111 are parallel to each other and are all inclined. A water guiding structure is provided on the condenser plates 111 to finally discharge the condensate on each layer of condenser plates 111.

[0101] Specifically, since the condenser plates 111 are parallel to each other, the lowest point of the condenser plates 111 with their free ends on the same side is at the flow gap. Under the action of gravity, the condensate can flow directly along the top surface of the condenser plate 111 towards the freest end and flow into the next layer at the flow gap. Meanwhile, at the lowest point of the other condenser plates 111 corresponding to the free end of the bottom condenser plate 111, at the connection between the condenser plate 111 and the side wall of the condensing duct 1, a drainage groove is provided at the connection between the fixed end of the condenser plate and the side wall of the condensing duct 1 to facilitate the discharge of condensate. This allows the condensate condensed in this layer and the condensate dripping from the free end of the upper condenser plate 111 to be discharged from the drainage groove to the next condenser plate 111 and finally into the drainage structure.

[0102] In practical applications, the water guiding structure can be the drainage trough mentioned above, or any other structure that can guide the condensate from each layer and ultimately discharge it into the drainage device. There are no requirements or restrictions as long as the condensate can be guided out and discharged, and does not accumulate in the condensate duct 1.

[0103] Alternatively, each layer of condenser plates 111 is inclined in the condensation duct 1. In the longitudinal direction, each layer of condenser plates 111 has a lower free end and a higher fixed end. The condensate formed on the top surface of the condenser plate 111 slides down to the lower end, i.e. the free end, under the action of gravity, and flows to the next layer of condenser plates 111 at the flow gap. The condensate on the next layer of condenser plates 111 also flows down and is eventually discharged into the drainage device.

[0104] To improve heat exchange efficiency, the condenser plate 111 in Examples 2 to 7 can be a hollow structure, with a heat exchanger, such as water, flowing inside. The hollow structure of the condenser plate 111 forms a loop with the water inlet pipe of the washing machine through a water channel, or forms a separate water-cooled circulation loop, thereby improving heat exchange efficiency.

[0105] It should be noted that the top wall of the housing or condenser duct 1 is an arched structure, which is also a tilted state. Alternatively, the condenser duct 1 is tilted within the space enclosed by the casing, so that the top and bottom walls are tilted during use. The condenser plate 111 is parallel or substantially parallel to the top and / or bottom walls of the condenser duct 1, which facilitates the flow and collection of condensate.

[0106] The condenser duct 1 is inclined inside the casing, or the bottom wall of the condenser duct 1 is inclined, and a drainage structure is provided at the lowest point of the bottom wall. The drainage structure is connected to the drain pipe of the washing machine to discharge the collected condensate through the drain pipe; or the drainage structure is connected to the water receiving structure built into the washing machine to discharge the collected condensate into the water receiving structure; or the drainage structure itself can store some condensate, and the user can drain the condensate stored in the drainage structure periodically or after each wash.

[0107] Furthermore, the drainage structure includes water-guiding steps 3, such as... Figures 6 to 8 As shown, a water guiding structure 3 is provided on the rear side wall of the condensation duct 1 to quickly guide the condensate generated on the rear wall to the bottom wall. The water guiding structure can be a structure with a smooth surface and a certain degree of hydrophobicity, with low surface tension, such as an aluminum alloy plate. The condensate is not easy to accumulate on the surface and can quickly slide down to the bottom wall under the action of gravity.

[0108] like Figure 6 As shown, the bottom of the rear wall of the condenser duct 1 is provided with a bend. The main body of the bend is attached to the top surface of the bottom wall. A notch is provided on the rear top surface of the bottom wall. A protrusion is provided on the rear bottom of the bend towards the bottom wall. The protrusion of the bend and the notch of the bottom wall fit together. Furthermore, a hook is provided on the front side of the protrusion, and a recess is provided at the notch of the bottom wall, so that the notch is roughly a horizontal J-shaped structure. The hook and the recess are interference fit, so that the bottom of the rear wall and the bottom wall are hooked together after being installed.

[0109] The water guiding structure 3 includes a water guiding plate 31 that is attached to the rear wall of the condensate duct. Further, in this embodiment, the water guiding plate 31 is welded to the rear wall using laser welding. In practical applications, the water guiding plate 31 can be integrated with the rear wall into a single structure. The thickness of the water guiding plate 31 is relatively thin (…). Figure 6 (The thickness is so small that it is not visible in the middle). The thickness is less than 1 mm, and at least one welded reinforcing rib is provided on the surface to enhance the welding strength.

[0110] The bottom of the water guide plate 31 is integrally formed with a water guide step 32. The welded step 32 fits into the bent portion at the bottom of the rear wall. Preferably, the top surface of the water guide step 32 is a slope, and the front end face is flush with the front end face of the bent portion. Alternatively, the front end face of the water guide step 32 extends forward and downward along the front end face of the bent portion, fitting into the bottom wall. Preferably, the connection between the water guide step 32 and the water guide plate 31 is rounded to prevent water accumulation at the connection.

[0111] Multiple drainage holes are provided on the bottom wall of the condensation duct 1. The water guiding step 32 and the bending part extend from the bottom wall to the drainage hole in the direction of the front wall. Preferably, the front end of the water guiding step 32 is tangent to the edge of the adjacent drainage hole. The condensate formed on the water guiding structure 3 slides directly into the drainage hole along the water guiding plate 31 and the water guiding step 32.

[0112] At the bottom of the condensate duct 1, a water guide section 8 is provided. The water guide section 8 has a hollow structure, and the drain hole is connected to the hollow part of the plug-in section. After the ventilation module is fixed to the housing, the water guide section 8 is connected to the window gasket. For example, the water guide section 8 can be directly plugged into the window gasket to guide the condensate in the water guide section to the window gasket and then back into the inner cylinder.

[0113] Preferably, in this embodiment, the water guiding structure 3 is provided only on the rear side wall. In practical applications, the water guiding structure 3 can be provided on all four side walls. Furthermore, as described in embodiments six and seven above regarding the condensation mechanism 11, the water guiding structure 3 is integrated with the box structure, and water guiding steps are provided on the box. When the box as described above is provided, since the box itself is made of aluminum alloy, there is no need to provide an additional water guiding plate 31; only water guiding steps 32 need to be provided at the bottom of the side wall of the box.

[0114] Multiple drainage holes are provided on the bottom wall, and the drainage holes are evenly distributed, such as in a row on the bottom wall, so that the condensate dripping from the side walls and fins can be drained into the inner cylinder through the water guide part 8 and the window gasket.

[0115] In the embodiments provided by the invention, such as Figure 3 As shown, the air inlet 12 and air outlet 13 of the condenser duct 1 are both located on the same side, at a position far from the flow gap corresponding to the bottommost condenser plate 111. That is, the air inlet 12 is located on the bottom wall corresponding to the fixed end of the bottommost condenser plate 111, and the air outlet 13 is located on the top wall corresponding to the fixed end. This maximizes the airflow path and achieves the best condensation and dehumidification effect. "Same side" refers to the condenser duct 1 in its installed state, meaning that both sides of the longitudinal mid-plane perpendicular to the length of the condenser duct 1 are located on the left or right side of the mid-plane. However, this is not limited to the same side wall. For example, they can both be on the left side of the mid-plane, but can be on the left side of the top wall and bottom wall respectively, or on the left side of the bottom wall and the left side wall, or on the left side of the bottom wall and the left side of the rear wall. The design is based on simplicity of process, simple structure, and ease of assembly, without any requirements or restrictions.

[0116] Furthermore, as described above, the air inlet 12 and air outlet 13 of the condensing air duct 1 are located on the top and bottom walls of the condensing air duct, respectively, and are positioned on the same side. The condensing plate 111 is horizontally positioned within the condensing air duct 1, dividing the condensing air duct 1 horizontally into two parts. The humid air is redirected at the flow gap at the free end. The horizontal positioning refers to positioning the condensing air duct parallel or approximately parallel to the top or bottom wall.

[0117] In practical applications, the air inlet 12 and the air outlet 13 can be set on the same side wall, such as on the bottom wall. The condenser plate 111 can be set longitudinally between the air inlet 12 and the air outlet 13. The free end of the condenser plate 111 faces the top wall and leaves a flow gap with the top wall. Similarly, a U-shaped or continuous S-shaped air path can be formed in the condenser duct 1.

[0118] Alternatively, the air inlet 12 and the air outlet 13 can be located on opposite side walls and on different sides, such as... Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, in this mode, the condenser plate 111 can also be arranged longitudinally in the condenser duct 1, and as... Figure 5 As shown, the condenser plates 111 can be multiple pieces, arranged in an alternating manner, and the fins 112 are inclined to facilitate the natural sliding of condensate on the fins 112 under the action of gravity.

[0119] The longitudinal setting refers to the vertical setting from the top wall to the bottom wall, that is, the setting along the height direction. The extension direction of the condenser plate 111 can be determined according to the setting position of the air inlet 12 and the air outlet 13. For example, the condenser plate 111 can be perpendicular to the length direction and width direction of the condenser air duct 1, or even set along the diagonal surface in the space of the condenser air duct 1, without any requirements or restrictions.

[0120] Similarly, the specific locations of the air inlet 112, air outlet 13, and exhaust channel 2 of the condenser air duct 1 can be determined according to the internal space of the casing, the fixing requirements with other structures inside the casing, and the location of the air outlet on the casing. The installation method of the condenser plate 111 can be determined according to the positional relationship between the air inlet 12 and the air outlet 13, including but not limited to the methods described above. Adjusting the installation method and installation angle of the condenser plate 111 according to the position of the air inlet 12 and the air outlet 13 is within the protection scope of this invention.

[0121] like Figures 2 to 3 As shown, an air outlet channel 2 is also provided at the top of the condenser duct. The condenser duct 1 and the air outlet channel 2 can be integrally formed or assembled and fixed into an integral structure by means of plug-in or snap-fit ​​connection. The condenser duct 1 and the air outlet channel 2 are connected through the air outlet.

[0122] like Figure 2 As shown, the air outlet duct 2 is a near-rectangular structure with five sides closed and one side open. The open end is the air outlet. The bottom wall of the air outlet duct 2 is integrally formed with the top wall of the condenser duct 1, and faces forward ( Figure 2As shown in the diagram, the air outlet 2 extends a certain distance towards the casing. During installation, it is plugged into the air vent on the casing. By extending the air outlet end of the air outlet 2 beyond the side wall of the condenser duct 1 by a certain distance, the condenser duct 1 is prevented from directly contacting the casing after installation. This prevents the heat in the condenser duct 1 from being conducted to the casing, causing the casing to heat up and condensation to form on the casing.

[0123] The air outlet of the air outlet duct 2 is located on the side, and the air outlet 13 is located on the bottom wall of the air outlet duct 2 (the top wall of the condenser duct 1), with a certain gap between it and the air outlet of the air outlet duct 2. This ensures that the air inlet direction and the air outlet direction of the air outlet duct 2 are perpendicular to each other, and the air outlet direction of the air outlet duct 2 is also perpendicular to the air inlet direction of the condenser duct 1. This effectively saves usable space inside the casing.

[0124] In this embodiment, the air outlet duct 2 and the condenser duct 1 are integrally formed, and the bottom wall of the air outlet duct 2 is the top wall of the condenser duct, and as shown... Figure 2 As shown, the horizontal length of the bottom wall of the air outlet duct 2 (perpendicular to the air outlet direction) is greater than the horizontal length of the top wall of the condenser duct 1. Both ends extend beyond the ends of the condenser duct 1 and hang downwards in an arc shape, smoothly connecting with the arched top wall of the condenser duct 1. Air entering the air outlet duct 2 is sprayed onto the top wall of the air outlet duct 2, where it is reflected and diffused throughout the space, reducing pressure and further lowering the air temperature before being discharged from the outlet.

[0125] Air outlet duct 2 is assembled and fixed to the casing, such as Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, a buckle 6 and / or a screw post 7 are provided on the top wall of the air outlet duct 2 to make the air outlet duct 2 snap-fitted and / or fixed with screws to the housing or other structures inside the housing.

[0126] To enhance the overall strength of the ventilation module and prevent the outer wall of the condenser duct 1 from directly contacting the casing or having a small distance between them, thus avoiding radiative heat conduction, thermal insulation cavities are provided on both sides of the condenser duct 1. These cavities are insulated with air or filled with thermal insulation cotton to prevent the temperature of the condenser duct 1 from rising after heat exchange with humid air and being directly transferred to the casing, causing the casing temperature to rise and condensation to form on the casing surface. At the same time, the thermal insulation cavities also enhance the overall strength of the condenser duct 1.

[0127] Furthermore, at the top of condenser duct 1 ( Figure 2 (As shown in the diagram) Multiple reinforcing ribs 4 are also provided. The tops of the reinforcing ribs 4 are connected to each other by horizontal reinforcing ribs 5. Clips 6 or screw posts 8 are set on the tops of the horizontal reinforcing ribs 5. The reinforcing ribs 4 and horizontal reinforcing ribs 5 not only strengthen the top of the condensing air duct 1, but also provide support for the clips 6 and screw posts 7. The height of the reinforcing ribs 4 and horizontal reinforcing ribs 5 is set according to the installation space requirements.

[0128] In this invention, the ventilation module is set in a drum washing machine as an example to introduce the specific structure. The ventilation module provided by this invention can be set in any equipment that may generate humid air and requires internal and external ventilation, including but not limited to washing machines, shoe washing machines and other clothing processing equipment, as well as household appliances such as dishwashers and disinfection cabinets. According to the nature and structural characteristics of household appliances, the shape of the ventilation module and the setting position and structural characteristics of the air inlet channel 2 and the air outlet channel can be adapted and modified, all of which are within the protection scope of this invention.

[0129] The clothing processing equipment provided by this invention includes the ventilation module described above. This ventilation module does not include electrical components such as motors or fans, nor does it have dampers. During washing machine operation, the rotation of the inner drum drives airflow between the inner and outer drums. The flowing humid air automatically enters the ventilation module through the exhaust device, where it is cooled and dehumidified at the condensation duct 1. Especially during the spin-drying process, the high-speed rotation of the inner drum causes a large amount of air between the inner and outer drums to escape through the exhaust device and ventilation module. After washing, because there are no dampers, even if the door is closed, the air inside the outer drum can naturally communicate with the air outside the machine casing through the ventilation module and exhaust duct, preventing the formation of a sealed space inside the humid washing drum that could breed bacteria. Simultaneously, a drainage structure is installed at the lowest point of the condensation duct 1 to promptly drain the generated condensate, preventing its accumulation and bacterial growth. The drainage structure is separate from the air inlet 12, also preventing condensate from flowing back into the inner drum through the air inlet and exhaust device.

[0130] After the inner drum stops rotating, especially after the high-speed rotation during spin-drying, the pressure difference between the inside and outside of the inner drum allows air from outside the casing to enter the washing drum in the opposite direction. This accelerates the descent of condensate on the condenser plate 1 and, to some extent, dries part of the condenser plate 111. To prevent the introduction of lint and other debris into the washing drum after spin-drying, a filter screen can be installed at the connection between the air outlet duct 2 and the casing. This filter screen can filter out lint and other debris from outside the casing, and it can also absorb some moisture, further preventing condensation from forming on the casing.

[0131] In summary, the ventilation module and garment processing device provided by this invention are optimized based on the traditional electrical ventilation module, eliminating all electronic components and preventing condensation. While retaining the "breathing" function of a ventilated drum washing machine, it significantly reduces costs. The above description is merely a preferred embodiment of this invention and is not intended to limit the invention in any way. Although the invention has been disclosed above with reference to preferred embodiments, it is not intended to limit the invention. Any person skilled in the art can make modifications or alterations to the above-described technical content to create equivalent embodiments without departing from the scope of the invention. Any simple modifications, equivalent changes, and alterations made to the above embodiments based on the technical essence of this invention, without departing from the scope of the invention, still fall within the scope of this invention.

Claims

1. A ventilation module of a laundry treating apparatus, characterized by: The condensing air duct is provided with a condensing mechanism with a longer humid air flow path than the length of the condensing air duct, and a drainage structure for draining condensed water. 2.The ventilation module of a laundry treating apparatus as claimed in claim 1, wherein: The condensing mechanism comprises at least one condensing plate arranged between the air inlet and the air outlet of the condensing air duct, at least one end of the condensing plate is connected to the air duct wall of the condensing air duct, and at least one end is spaced apart from the air duct wall of the condensing air duct to form an air flow gap, and the humid air changes the flow direction at the air flow gap. 3.The ventilation module of a laundry treating apparatus of claim 2, wherein: The air inlet and the air outlet are arranged on opposite two air duct walls, respectively. Alternatively, the air inlet and the air outlet are arranged on the same air duct wall of the condensing air duct. 4.The ventilation module of a laundry treating apparatus as claimed in claim 3, characterized by: The air inlet and the air outlet are arranged on opposite two air duct walls of the condensing air duct, and at least one condensing plate is arranged along the transverse direction of the condensing air duct when the air inlet and the air outlet are arranged on the same side of the condensing air duct. Alternatively, the air inlet and the air outlet are arranged on opposite two air duct walls of the condensing air duct, and at least one condensing plate is arranged along the longitudinal direction of the condensing air duct when the air inlet and the air outlet are arranged on different sides of the condensing air duct. 5.The ventilation module of a laundry treating apparatus as claimed in claim 2, characterized by: The condensing plate and / or the wall of the condensing air duct are provided with fins. 6.The ventilation module of a laundry treating apparatus as claimed in claim 5, characterized by: The length of the fins on the bottommost condensing plate is less than the length of the fins on the topmost condensing plate or the top wall of the condensing air duct; preferably, the condensing plates are arranged obliquely, the lengths of the fins on the same condensing plate are different, and the bottom surfaces of the fins are on the same horizontal plane or the connecting line of the bottom surfaces of the fins is parallel to the bottom wall of the condensing air duct.

7. The ventilation module of a laundry treating apparatus as claimed in claim 2, characterized in that: The condensing plates are arranged obliquely, with the lowest point facing the drainage structure. Preferably, when there is one condensing plate, the air flow gap is located above the drainage structure. When there are multiple condensing plates, the air flow gaps of the condensing plates are arranged alternately, the air flow gap of the bottommost condensing plate is located above the drainage structure, and the other condensing plates are provided with water guide structures.

8. A ventilation module for a laundry treatment apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that: The condensing mechanism is a box-shaped structure embedded in the condensing air duct, the box is provided with an air inlet and an air outlet communicating with the condensing air duct; at least one condensing plate parallel to the top wall and / or the bottom wall of the box is arranged in the box, the condensing plate is fixed to the side wall of the box and has an air flow gap between one end of the condensing plate and the side wall of the box, and the air flow gaps of adjacent condensing plates are arranged alternately to form a continuous S-shaped air path between the top wall, the bottom wall of the box and the multiple condensing plates.

9. A ventilation module for a laundry treatment apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that: The air inlet is arranged at a position away from the air flow gap of the bottommost condensing plate. 10.A laundry treating apparatus, characterized by: The ventilation module comprises the clothes treatment device according to any one of claims 1 to 9.

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