drier

Abstract

A dryer is provided that includes a trapping device with improved convenience. The dryer of the present disclosure includes a housing, a receiving tank provided in the housing, an air supply device that supplies air into the receiving tank, a trapping device that traps foreign matter from the air that has passed through the receiving tank, and an air flow path that connects the air supply device, the receiving tank, and the trapping device. The trapping device has an inflow portion that extends from a suction port that is connected to the receiving tank, an upstream-side swirling portion that is connected to the inflow portion and causes the inflowing air to swirl while being supplied in a first direction, a filter screen portion that is provided downstream of the upstream-side swirling portion and has a cylindrical shape that extends around the first direction, an air path portion that surrounds the filter screen portion, a downstream-side swirling portion that is provided at a position where the filter screen portion is aligned in the first direction and has a peripheral surface that extends around the first direction, an end surface that closes an end portion of the peripheral surface of the downstream-side swirling portion, and a recovery portion that is connected to a discharge port provided in the peripheral surface.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to a dryer. Background Technology

[0002] For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a dryer that includes a rotating drum for storing clothes, an air supply device for supplying air to the rotating drum, and an air flow path that connects the rotating drum to the air supply device.

[0003] In the dryer described in Patent Document 1, a filter is provided in the middle of the air flow path to mainly capture foreign objects such as lint.

[0004] Existing technical documents

[0005] Patent documents

[0006] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2009-28564 Summary of the Invention

[0007] The problem the invention aims to solve

[0008] However, the filter in Patent Document 1 is arranged in a manner that crosses the direction of airflow in the airflow path, making it prone to clogging and requiring user maintenance. Therefore, there is room for improvement in terms of the convenience of the collection device.

[0009] Therefore, the purpose of this disclosure is to solve the above-mentioned problems and provide a dryer that includes a collection device with improved convenience.

[0010] Solution for solving the problem

[0011] A dryer according to one embodiment of the present disclosure includes: a housing; a receiving tank disposed within the housing; an air supply device for supplying air into the receiving tank; a trapping device for trapping foreign matter from the air passing through the receiving tank; and an airflow path connecting the air supply device, the receiving tank, and the trapping device, the trapping device having: an inlet portion extending from an air intake communicating with the receiving tank; an upstream swirling portion communicating with the inlet portion, causing the inflowing air to swirl while being transported in a first direction; a filter portion disposed downstream of the upstream swirling portion, having a cylindrical shape extending around the first direction; an airflow path portion surrounding the filter portion; a downstream swirling portion disposed in a position aligned with the filter portion in the first direction, having a circumferential surface extending around the first direction; an end face closing the end of the circumferential surface of the downstream swirling portion; and a recovery portion communicating with an outlet disposed on the circumferential surface.

[0012] The effects of the invention

[0013] According to this disclosure, a dryer can be provided that includes a collection device with improved convenience. Attached Figure Description

[0014] Figure 1A This is a schematic diagram of a dryer according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0015] Figure 1B This is a schematic front view of the dryer according to the embodiment.

[0016] Figure 2 This is a perspective view of the collection device included in the dryer of the embodiment.

[0017] Figure 3 It is along Figure 2 A cross-sectional view along line AA.

[0018] Figure 4 It is along Figure 2 A cross-sectional view of the BB line.

[0019] Figure 5 It is along Figure 2 A cross-sectional view of the CC line.

[0020] Figure 6 It is a perspective view showing the filter screen components, downstream swirling section, and recovery section of the collection device.

[0021] Figure 7 This is a partial cross-sectional view showing the trapping device of the rotating section.

[0022] Figure 8 This is a partial cross-sectional view showing the collection device of the filter screen component.

[0023] Figure 9 This is a partial cross-sectional view showing the collection device of the first downstream swirl section and the first recovery section.

[0024] Figure 10 This is a cross-sectional view of the downstream rotating section of the trapping device.

[0025] Figure 11 This is another cross-sectional view of the downstream rotating section of the trapping device.

[0026] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0027] 1. Dryer; 2. Shell; 3. Outer tank; 4. Rotating drum; 5. Drive unit; 6. Heat pump unit; 7. Collection device; 8. Air flow path; 9. Air supply device; 10. Water supply valve; 11. Drain valve; 12. Control unit; 70. Outer shell; 71. Inlet; 72A, 72B. Upstream swirling part; 73A, 73B. Filter screen component; 78. Protrusion; 81. Air inlet; 83A, 83B. Peripheral wall part; 84A, 84B. Opening; 85A, 85B. Filter screen; 87. End; 89A, 89B. End; L1, L2. Axis. Detailed Implementation

[0028] (Implementation Method)

[0029] The dryer according to the embodiments of this disclosure will be described. Figure 1A This is a schematic diagram of the dryer 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 1B This is a schematic front view of dryer 1.

[0030] The dryer 1 in this embodiment is a washing and drying machine with a washing function (a so-called drum washing and drying machine). The dryer 1 can also be called a clothes dryer, but it can also handle items other than clothing such as towels and sheets.

[0031] like Figure 1A As shown, the dryer 1 includes a shell 2, an outer tank 3, a rotating drum 4, a drive unit 5, a heat pump device 6, a collection device 7, an air flow path 8, an air supply device 9, a water supply valve 10, a drain valve 11, and a control unit 12.

[0032] Hereinafter, the two mutually orthogonal directions in the horizontal plane will be designated as the width direction X and the front-back direction Y, and the vertical direction orthogonal to the horizontal plane will be designated as the up-down direction Z.

[0033] The housing 2 is a component that forms the exterior of the dryer 1. An opening 20 and a freely opening and closing door 21 covering the opening 20 are provided on the front surface of the housing 2.

[0034] The outer tank 3 is located inside the housing 2 and is a generally cylindrical component that functions to store washing water. The outer tank 3 can also be referred to as a sink or bucket. The outer tank 3 has an opening 31 located opposite the opening 20 of the housing 2. The edge of the opening 31 is connected to the opening 20 via a bellows 32. Furthermore, the axis passing through the center of the bottom of the outer tank 3 is designated as the central axis V0. The outer tank 3 is arranged at an angle relative to the horizontal with respect to the central axis V0. Alternatively, the central axis V0 can be set horizontally.

[0035] The outer tank 3 is also provided with openings 33 and 34. Openings 33 and 34 are openings that connect to the heat pump device 6, the trapping device 7 and the air flow path 8. Air in the outer tank 3 flows out from opening 33, passes through the trapping device 7, the heat pump device 6 and the air flow path 8 in sequence, and then flows back into the outer tank 3 through opening 34 (refer to square arrow A).

[0036] like Figure 1B As shown, when viewed from the front-rear direction Y, the distance between the outer peripheral surface of the outer groove 3 and the upper surface of the housing 2 widens towards the outer side X1. Therefore, it is easier to ensure space above the outer groove 3 by facing outward X1. Here, "outer side X1" refers to the width direction X away from the central axis V0.

[0037] Back Figure 1AThe rotating drum 4 is a generally cylindrical component that is rotatable about a central axis V0 inside the outer tub 3 and is capable of holding laundry. The drum 4 can also be referred to as a washing tub, inner tub, or storage tub. The rotating drum 4 has a plurality of through holes 40, which connect the rotating drum 4 to the outer tub 3. The rotating drum 4 has an opening 41 located opposite the opening 20 of the housing 2 and the opening 31 of the outer tub 3. When the user opens the door 21, laundry can be placed into the rotating drum 4 through the openings 20, 31, and 41.

[0038] The drive unit 5 is a component that drives the rotating drum 4 to rotate around the central axis V0. The drive unit 5 may include, for example, a motor that rotates the rotating drum 4.

[0039] The heat pump device 6 is located on the upper part of the housing 2 and is connected to the rotating drum 4. It is a device for dehumidifying and heating the air flowing in from the rotating drum 4.

[0040] The heat pump unit 6 includes a first heat exchanger, a second heat exchanger, refrigerant piping for circulating refrigerant between the two heat exchangers, a compressor, and a throttling mechanism. The first heat exchanger is used for dehumidifying the air (dehumidification heat exchanger). The second heat exchanger is used for heating the dehumidified air downstream of the first heat exchanger (heating heat exchanger). The compressor compresses the refrigerant flowing from the first heat exchanger to the second heat exchanger. The throttling mechanism reduces the pressure of the refrigerant flowing from the second heat exchanger to the first heat exchanger.

[0041] The trapping device 7 is an upstream device for collecting foreign objects such as wire ends and dust from the air flowing from the self-rotating drum 4 to the heat pump unit 6. The trapping device 7 removes foreign objects from the air, preventing them from adhering to components such as the heat pump unit 6 and the downstream air supply device 9.

[0042] like Figure 1B As shown, the collection device 7 and the heat pump device 6 ( Figure 1A The trapping device 7 is positioned above the outer groove 3, offset outward by X1 relative to the central axis V0 of the outer groove 3. The end of the trapping device 7 on the central side is located outward by X1 from the central axis V0. In one embodiment, the trapping device 7 is partially disposed between the outer groove 3 and the housing 2, and the upper part of the trapping device 7 protrudes upward from the upper surface of the housing 2, but this is not a limitation. Alternatively, the trapping device 7 may be entirely housed inside the housing 2.

[0043] Back Figure 1A The air flow path 8 is located inside the housing 2 and is a flow path component that connects the rotating drum 4, the heat pump device 6, the collection device 7, and the air supply device 9. When the air supply device 9 is driven, air circulates between the rotating drum 4 and the heat pump device 6 through the air flow path 8 (refer to square arrow A).

[0044] In this embodiment, the airflow path 8 is located between the heat pump device 6 and the rotating drum 4, but it is not limited to this. It can also be located between the rotating drum 4 and the collection device 7, between the collection device 7 and the heat pump device 6, or between other components.

[0045] An air supply device 9 is located in the airflow path 8 and is a device that supplies air and circulates it between the rotating drum 4 and the heat pump unit 6. The air supply device 9 delivers air dehumidified and heated by the heat pump unit 6 toward the rotating drum 4. The air supply device 9 may include, for example, a fan.

[0046] The water supply valve 10 has an openable and closable valve that is connected to a faucet via an external hose. When the water supply valve 10 is opened, water is supplied to the outer tank 3. The water supply valve 10 is located on the upper part of the housing 2.

[0047] The drain valve 11 is a valve that can be opened and closed. When closed, it stores water in the outer tank 3, and when opened, it discharges the water stored in the outer tank 3. The drain valve 11 is located at the lower part of the housing 2.

[0048] The control unit 12 is a component that controls the operation of the dryer 1. The control unit 12 controls the components of the dryer 1, including the drive unit 5, heat pump device 6, air supply device 9, water supply valve 10, and drain valve 11. The control unit 12 includes a general-purpose processor such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit), MPU (Micro Processing Unit), FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array), DSP (Digital Signal Processor), or ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit) that executes a program to achieve predetermined functions. The control unit 12 can achieve various controls of the dryer 1 by calling and executing a control program stored in memory (not shown). The control unit 12 is not limited to achieving predetermined functions through hardware and software cooperation; it can also be a specially designed hardware circuit that achieves predetermined functions.

[0049] Next, the construction of the trapping device 7 will be described in more detail. Figure 2 This is a three-dimensional view of the trapping device 7. Figure 3 It is along Figure 2 A cross-sectional view of the AA line collection device 7. Figure 4 It is along Figure 2 A cross-sectional view of the BB line collection device 7 in the image. Figure 5 It is along Figure 2A cross-sectional view of the CC line collection device 7 in the image. Figure 6 This is a perspective view of filter components 73A and 73B, downstream swirling parts 75A and 75B, and recovery part 76.

[0050] like Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, the collection device 7 has a housing 70, an inflow section 71, and an upstream swirling section 72. Figure 3 ), filter components 73A, 73B ( Figure 3 , Figure 5 ), Filter 74 ( Figure 3 ), downstream swirl section 75 ( Figure 3 ), Recycling Department 76.

[0051] like Figure 3 As shown, the outer casing 70 is a housing that includes a portion of the inflow section 71, the upstream swirl section 72, the filter components 73A and 73B, the filter 74, and the downstream swirl section 75. Figure 3 The diagram is omitted, but the outer casing 70 also houses the heat pump unit 6. Figure 1A An upstream portion of an inlet 71 is connected to one side of the housing 70, and an airflow path 8 is connected to the other side. Figure 1A ).

[0052] In the embodiment, a portion of the housing 70 that houses the upstream swivel section 72, filter components 73A and 73B, and the downstream swivel section 75 is separated from the housing 2 ( Figure 1A )protrude.

[0053] The inflow section 71 is from the rotating drum 4 ( Figure 1A The flow path member extending from the intake port 81 allows humid air from the rotating drum 4 to flow into the upstream swirl section 72. That is, the inflow section 71 connects the rotating drum 4 with the upstream swirl section 72.

[0054] In one embodiment, the inflow portion 71 extends upward in a straight line from the intake port 81 and connects to the upstream swirling portion 72. In another embodiment, the downstream portion of the inflow portion 71 is integrally formed with the upstream swirling portion 72. The intake port 81 is connected to the outer groove 3 via a flow path member having a corrugated pipe shape, but it can also be directly connected to the opening 33 of the outer groove 3. Figure 1B )connect.

[0055] The opening 33 is located on the circumference of the outer groove 3 at a position offset outward by X1 relative to the central axis V0 of the outer groove 3. Therefore, the inflow portion 71 is located above the outer groove 3 at a position offset outward by X1.

[0056] With this structure, it is easier to ensure sufficient vertical space (Z) for the inflow section 71 compared to the case where the inflow section 71 is located directly above the central axis V0. Therefore, the height at which the collecting device 7 protrudes upwards from the upper surface of the housing 2 can be reduced. Thus, a compact structure can be achieved in the dryer 1.

[0057] Furthermore, a corrugated flow path member for absorbing vibration can be easily installed between the outer tank 3 and the inflow section 71, which can suppress the transmission of vibration caused by the rotation of the rotating drum 4 to the collection device 7 and the heat pump device 6. Therefore, malfunctions of the collection device 7 and the heat pump device 6 can be suppressed.

[0058] The upstream swirling section 72 is a flow path component that generates a swirling flow by causing the air flowing in from the inlet section 71 to swirl around the axes L1 and L2 along the axes V1 and V2 while being transported to the predetermined axes V1 and V2.

[0059] like Figure 4 As shown, in this embodiment, the upstream swirling section 72 has a first upstream swirling section 72A and a second upstream swirling section 72B that independently generate swirling flows that do not interfere with each other. Hereinafter, the first upstream swirling section 72A and the second upstream swirling section 72B will also be simply referred to as upstream swirling sections 72A and 72B. The upstream swirling sections 72A and 72B are arranged in a manner that they are adjacent to each other in the width direction X.

[0060] The inlet 71 is located in the width direction X between the axes L1 and L2 of the upstream swirling sections 72A and 72B, supplying air to both upstream swirling sections 72A and 72B. Therefore, air flows from the inlet 71 outward in the width direction X into each of the upstream swirling sections 72A and 72B.

[0061] The upstream swirling sections 72A and 72B each have openings 84A and 84B communicating with the inflow section 71 for the purpose of introducing air. Openings 84A and 84B are directly open relative to the inflow section 71. Specifically, openings 84A and 84B are connected to the upper end of the inflow section 71. Opening 84A is connected to one side of the upper end of the inflow section 71 in the width direction X, and opening 84B is connected to the other side of the upper end in the width direction X. Openings 84A and 84B are opposite to each other in the width direction X.

[0062] The upstream swirling portions 72A and 72B each have peripheral wall portions 83A and 83B extending in a generally arcuate shape from the edges of the openings 84A and 84B. The upstream swirling portions 72A and 72B generate swirling flow by guiding air along the inner peripheral surfaces of the peripheral wall portions 83A and 83B. Specifically, the peripheral wall portions 83A and 83B extend in a generally arcuate shape around axes L1 and L2 along the axial directions V1 and V2, respectively. In this embodiment, the axial directions V1 and V2 and the axes L1 and L2 are orthogonal to the width direction X and parallel to each other.

[0063] Furthermore, axes L1 and L2 are not limited to being parallel to each other; they can extend along each other. For example, axes L1 and L2 can also extend at an angle to each other and in a manner that increases in intervals along the width direction X. Axes L1 and L2 can also be torsional to each other.

[0064] Here, the first upstream swirling section 72A causes the incoming air to swirl while being transported toward the first axis V1, and the second upstream swirling section 72B causes the incoming air to swirl while being transported toward the second axis V2. The swirling direction C1 of the swirling flow in the first upstream swirling section 72A is different from the swirling direction C2 of the swirling flow in the second upstream swirling section 72B.

[0065] Back Figure 3 The axes L1 and L2 of the upstream swirling sections 72A and 72B are inclined relative to the longitudinal direction Y. With this structure, even in a structure with limited space in the longitudinal direction Y, the axial dimensions V1 and V2 of the upstream swirling sections 72A and 72B can be ensured, thus generating swirling flow with suppressed pressure loss.

[0066] The air flowing from the inlet 71 into the upstream swirling sections 72A and 72B forms a swirling flow, and while swirling, it flows into the filter components 73A and 73B located downstream of the upstream swirling sections 72A and 72B, respectively.

[0067] like Figure 3 and Figure 5 As shown, filter components 73A and 73B have cylindrical shapes extending along axial directions V1 and V2, respectively, and are components having filter screens 85A and 85B covering the entire circumference. Filter screens 85A and 85B have multiple through holes extending radially. The through holes allow air to flow out from the inside to the outside of the cylindrical shape only, inhibiting the passage of foreign objects.

[0068] Filter components 73A and 73B have a cylindrical shape, so the airflow in the swirling flow entering from the upstream swirling portions 72A and 72B is parallel to the filter screens 85A and 85B of filter components 73A and 73B. That is, it can suppress the flow of air in a direction orthogonal to the filter screens 85A and 85B, and can suppress the pressing of foreign objects against the filter screens 85A and 85B. Therefore, foreign objects are difficult to adhere to the filter screens 85A and 85B.

[0069] like Figure 5 As shown, the first filter element 73A is disposed on the same axis L1 as the first upstream swivel portion 72A, and the second filter element 73B is disposed on the same axis L2 as the second upstream swivel portion 72B. That is, axes L1 and L2 are the central axes of filter elements 73A and 73B, respectively. Therefore, the upstream swivel portions 72A and 72B are arranged in the width direction X, and thus the peripheral surfaces of filter elements 73A and 73B are also arranged adjacent to each other in the width direction X.

[0070] On the other hand, the peripheral surfaces of filter components 73A and 73B are arranged with a spacing G1 in the width direction X. That is, the peripheral surfaces of filter components 73A and 73B are arranged separately from each other. As a result, a portion of the air flowing out from filter components 73A and 73B flows in the space K3 between the peripheral surfaces of filter components 73A and 73B.

[0071] Alternatively, filter components 73A and 73B may have a support portion 86 supporting the filter screens 85A and 85B in a portion of the entire circumference.

[0072] Back Figure 3 Air flowing out radially from filter components 73A and 73B flows into the internal space K1 defined by the outer casing 70. The internal space K1 is the space outside the filter components 73A and 73B and upstream of the filter 74.

[0073] Filter 74 is a filter that runs through the air in the front-to-back direction Y. By allowing air flowing out from filter elements 73A and 73B to pass through, filter 74 can further remove foreign objects such as lint from the air before it flows into the heat pump unit 6.

[0074] A heat pump unit 6 is configured in the internal space K2 downstream of filter 74. Figure 1A ).

[0075] The housing 70 has an exhaust port 82 downstream of the heat pump unit 6. The exhaust port 82 is connected to the airflow path 8 (…). Figure 1A The air flowing into the internal space K1 passes through the filter 74, is dehumidified and heated by the heat pump device 6, flows from the exhaust port 82 into the air flow path 8, and returns to the rotating drum 4.

[0076] Air that does not pass through filter components 73A and 73B flows sequentially into the downstream swirl section 75 and the recovery section 76.

[0077] The downstream swirl section 75 is arranged axially along V1 and V2 with each filter screen component 73A and 73B, and communicates with the internal space of the filter screen components 73A and 73B. The downstream swirl section 75 is a flow path component used to agglomerate foreign matter that remains inside the filter screen components 73A and 73B.

[0078] like Figure 6 As shown, in this embodiment, the downstream swivel portion 75 has a first downstream swivel portion 75A and a second downstream swivel portion 75B that are respectively connected to the first filter element 73A and the second filter element 73B. Hereinafter, the first downstream swivel portion 75A and the second downstream swivel portion 75B will also be simply referred to as downstream swivel portions 75A and 75B. The downstream swivel portions 75A and 75B each have circumferential surfaces S1 and S2 extending about axial directions V1 and V2, respectively, and have a generally cylindrical shape. That is, the first filter element 73A is disposed on the same axis L1 as the first upstream swivel portion 72A. The second filter element 73B is disposed on the same axis L2 as the second upstream swivel portion 72B.

[0079] The downstream swirling sections 75A and 75B have a generally cylindrical shape, which facilitates the guidance of air flowing in from the filter components 73A and 73B along the circumferential surfaces S1 and S2, respectively, to maintain the swirling flow. By maintaining the swirling flow, foreign matter contained in the swirling flow can be agglomerated and concentrated to form a mass of foreign matter.

[0080] The downstream rotating sections 75A and 75B each have a discharge port 77A and 77B on their respective circumferential surfaces S1 and S2, which communicate with the recovery section 76. In this embodiment, the discharge ports 77A and 77B are located in the upper half (i.e., the +Z side half) of the circumferential surfaces S1 and S2. When the foreign object becomes larger, the centrifugal force exerted by the rotation increases, allowing the object to enter the recovery section 76 from the downstream rotating section 75.

[0081] The recovery section 76 is a container for storing foreign matter blocks formed by the downstream swirling sections 75A and 75B. The recovery section 76 is connected to the discharge ports 77A and 77B, and receives foreign matter from the downstream swirling sections 75A and 75B, respectively. Specifically, it has recovery sections 76A and 76B corresponding to the discharge ports 77A and 77B, respectively. The recovery sections 76A and 76B are separated from each other.

[0082] The recycling unit 76 can be detached from the downstream rotating part 75. The user can detach the recycling unit 76 from the downstream rotating part 75 and discard the foreign objects stored therein.

[0083] Next, the construction of the inflow section 71 and the upstream swirling section 72 will be described in more detail. Figure 7 This is a partial cross-sectional view of the trapping device 7 as seen from the front-rear direction Y, showing the inflow section 71 and the upstream swirling section 72.

[0084] like Figure 7 As shown, the first peripheral wall portion 83A of the first upstream swivel portion 72A and the second peripheral wall portion 83B of the second upstream swivel portion 72B are connected to each other at one end 87.

[0085] Each peripheral wall portion 83A and 83B extends outward from the end 87 in the width direction X, thus guiding air outward, i.e., in opposite directions. Therefore, the swirling direction C1 of the swirling flow in the first upstream swirling portion 72A is opposite to the swirling direction C2 of the swirling flow in the second upstream swirling portion 72B. In this embodiment, the swirling flow in the first upstream swirling portion 72A swirls clockwise, and the swirling flow in the second upstream swirling portion 72B swirls counterclockwise.

[0086] A protrusion 78 is formed by the first portion 88A of the first peripheral wall portion 83A extending from the end 87 and the second portion 88B of the second peripheral wall portion 83B extending from the end 87. The protrusion 78 and the air inlet 81 of the inflow portion 71 ( Figure 4 It is opposite to the air inlet 81 in the vertical direction Z and protrudes downward. The end 87 forms the top of the protrusion 78.

[0087] The first portion 88A of the first peripheral wall portion 83A and the second portion 88B of the second peripheral wall portion 83B forming the protrusion 78 have curvatures greater than those of other portions of the peripheral wall portions 83A and 83B, and are arranged in a curved shape bulging outwards radially. The bulge of the first portion 88A and the second portion 88B decreases as they move away from the end 87. Therefore, the peripheral wall portions 83A and 83B are arranged in a smooth curved shape. The first portion 88A and the second portion 88B may also extend along an involute curve bulging outwards radially.

[0088] On the other hand, the first peripheral wall portion 83A of the first upstream swirling portion 72A and the second peripheral wall portion 83B of the second upstream swirling portion 72B are connected to the inflow portion 71 near the other end portions 89A and 89B. Thus, the opening 84A is defined between the end portions 87 and 89A of the first peripheral wall portion 83A, and the opening 84B is defined between the end portions 87 and 89B of the second peripheral wall portion 83B.

[0089] End portions 89A and 89B are located below end portion 87. Therefore, openings 84A and 84B are opposite each other in the width direction X below protrusion 78. Furthermore, end portions 89A and 89B are located outside in the width direction X compared to end portion 87. In other words, end portion 87 and protrusion 78 are located between end portions 89A and 89B (i.e., between openings 84A and 84B). With this structure, air in the inflow portion 71 can easily be diverted in opposite directions in the width direction X through protrusion 78 and flow into each opening 84A and 84B.

[0090] In this embodiment, the ends 89A and 89B protrude inward in the width direction X from the wall surfaces of the inflow portion 71 to which the peripheral wall portions 83A and 83B are respectively connected. In other words, the ends 89A and 89B protrude downstream in the direction of travel of the swirling flow flowing in the upstream swirling portions 72A and 72B, respectively, from the wall surfaces of the inflow portion 71 to which the peripheral wall portions 83A and 83B are connected.

[0091] With this structure, the air flowing in the inlet 71 contacts the outer peripheral surfaces of the ends 89A and 89B, and is guided by the outer peripheral surfaces extending from the ends 89A and 89B. With the wind direction corrected to be close to the tangential direction of the first and second peripheral walls 83A and 83B, the air flows radially outward into the upstream swirling sections 72A and 72B. By flowing into the upstream swirling sections 72A and 72B with the wind direction close to the tangential direction, the merging with the swirling flow that would disturb the internal flow of the upstream swirling sections 72A and 72B can be suppressed. Furthermore, by providing the ends 89A and 89B, the air flowing in the inlet 71 can be guided radially outward into the swirling flow flowing in the upstream swirling sections 72A and 72B, thus increasing the size of the openings 84A and 84B and ensuring a larger flow area.

[0092] In addition, the air flowing in the upstream swirling sections 72A and 72B is guided by the inner circumferential surfaces of the ends 89A and 89B, so it is easy to maintain the swirling flow in the upstream swirling sections 72A and 72B.

[0093] In this embodiment, the opening area of ​​opening 84A along the rotation direction C1 is larger than the opening area of ​​opening 84B along the rotation direction C2. Alternatively, the opening areas of openings 84A and 84B can be the same.

[0094] Here, the positional relationship between the upstream swirling section 72 and the inflow section 71 is explained. Through the air intake 81 ( Figure 4 The central axis L3 of the inflow section 71 at the center of the ) Figure 7 The inflow portion 71 is offset in the width direction X relative to the end 87 of the upstream swivel portion 72. In the embodiment, the inflow portion 71 is disposed biased toward the upstream swivel portion 72A.

[0095] On the upstream swivel section 72A side, compared to the upstream swivel section 72B side, it is possible to ( ) with the outer peripheral surface of the outer groove 3 Figure 1A This ensures more space between the outer tank 3 and the inflow section 71. Therefore, it is easy to install a bellows member for absorbing vibration between the outer tank 3 and the inflow section 71, which can suppress the transmission of vibration caused by the rotation of the rotating drum 4 to the collection device 7 and the heat pump device 6, and can suppress the malfunction of the collection device 7 and the heat pump device 6.

[0096] To guide air from its offset position toward the respective upstream swirling sections 72A and 72B, the inlet section 71 has inclined surfaces 91 and 92 near the openings 84A and 84B, respectively. Inclined surface 91 extends from the portion of the first peripheral wall 83A adjacent to the end point 89A, and is inclined relative to the vertical direction Z such that air is deflected tangentially toward the upstream swirling sections 72A and 72B. Inclined surface 92 extends from the portion of the second peripheral wall 83B adjacent to the end point 89B, and is inclined relative to the vertical direction Z such that air is deflected toward the opening 84B. In other words, inclined surface 91 prevents excessive air supply to the opening 84A, and inclined surface 92 guides air toward the opening 84B.

[0097] With this structure, opening 84B is smaller than opening 84A, thus allowing air to flow more reliably into the upstream swirl section 72B. Therefore, air can be supplied uniformly to openings 84A and 84B, which have different opening areas. Furthermore, disturbances to the swirling flow in the upstream swirl sections 72A and 72B can be suppressed, allowing the area near the center of the upstream swirl sections 72A and 72B to be the center of the swirling flow, enabling efficient generation of the swirling flow.

[0098] Next, the construction of filter components 73A and 73B will be described in more detail. Figure 8 This is a partial cross-sectional view of the trapping device 7 as seen from the front-rear direction Y, showing the filter components 73A and 73B.

[0099] In this embodiment, the first filter element 73A and the second filter element 73B have a common structure. However, the first filter element 73A and the second filter element 73B may also have different diameters, lengths, and structures.

[0100] like Figure 8 As shown, no partitions such as walls or ribs are provided in the gap G1 between the first filter component 73A and the second filter component 73B. That is, a communicating space K3 is provided between the first filter component 73A and the second filter component 73B. The space K3 extends along the vertical direction Z and communicates with the internal space K1 of the outer casing 70.

[0101] The airflow within the gap G1 will be explained. The rotation directions C1 and C2 of filter components 73A and 73B are opposite to each other, therefore the tangential directions of the swirling flow at opposite circumferential surfaces across the gap G1 are parallel to each other. That is, the air flowing from the first filter component 73A into the gap G1 and the air flowing from the second filter component 73B into the gap G1 flow in the same direction (upwards). Therefore, even without a separator, mutual interference of airflow at the gap G1 can be suppressed.

[0102] The spacing between the central axes (i.e., axes L1 and L2) of filter components 73A and 73B is larger than the average diameter of filter components 73A and 73B, but smaller than twice the average diameter. The spacing between the central axes of filter components 73A and 73B can also be smaller than 1.5 times the average diameter of filter components 73A and 73B.

[0103] Since the rotation directions C1 and C2 of the filter components 73A and 73B are opposite to each other, the gap between the central axes of the filter components 73A and 73B can be reduced while maintaining a state in which mutual interference of air is unlikely to occur in the gap G1, thus reducing the gap G1. Therefore, it is easy to achieve space saving in the collection device 7.

[0104] Filter components 73A and 73B are surrounded by housing 70. A gap G2 exists between filter components 73A and 73B and the inner wall surface of housing 70. Specifically, the circumferential surfaces of filter components 73A and 73B are separated from the inner wall surface of housing 70 over their entire circumference. Therefore, air flows out more evenly over the entire circumference of filter components 73A and 73B. By preventing a localized increase in airflow in the circumferential direction, the adhesion of foreign matter such as lint caused by uneven airflow in filter components 73A and 73B can be suppressed.

[0105] The size of the gap G2 between the peripheral surfaces of filter components 73A and 73B and the inner wall surface of the outer casing 70 varies along the direction around axes L1 and L2. The gap G1 between filter components 73A and 73B is smaller than twice the minimum value of the gap G2.

[0106] Next, the construction of the downstream swirl sections 75A and 75B and the recovery section 76 will be described in more detail. Figure 9 This is a partial cross-sectional view of the collection device 7, which includes the first downstream swirl section 75A and the first recovery section 76A.

[0107] like Figure 6 and Figure 9As shown, in this embodiment, the recycling section 76 is divided into a first recycling section 76A and a second recycling section 76B. The first recycling section 76A and the second recycling section 76B each have a first portion 94 for receiving blocks and a second portion 95 that connects the first portion 94 to the discharge ports 77A and 77B of the downstream rotating sections 75A and 75B, respectively.

[0108] Part 1 94 has a bottom 96 located on the -Z side of the outlets 77A and 77B, respectively. Part 2 95 extends upward from the outlets 77A and 77B and bends towards the +Y side. With this structure, the block housed in Part 1 94 is difficult to return to the downstream swivel sections 75A and 75B.

[0109] The first recovery unit 76A and the second recovery unit 76B define an internally enclosed space except for the inflow and outflow of air through the discharge ports 77A and 77B, respectively. In other words, the first recovery unit 76A and the second recovery unit 76B form enclosed spaces around the discharge ports 77A and 77B, respectively. The "enclosed space" can also be a sealed space.

[0110] The structure of the first downstream swivel section 75A will be described in more detail. Figure 10 and Figure 11 This is a cross-sectional view of the first downstream rotating section 75A.

[0111] In this embodiment, the first downstream rotating portion 75A has the same structure as the second downstream rotating portion 75B. The structure of the first downstream rotating portion 75A will be described below, but the second downstream rotating portion 75B may also have the same structure.

[0112] like Figure 10 and Figure 11 As shown, the first downstream swirling section 75A has a circumferential surface S1 and an end face P1 that closes the end of the circumferential surface S1. The circumferential surface S1 is a surface that extends about the axis L1 and guides the swirling air. The end face P1 is a surface orthogonal to the axis V1. The air guided to the circumferential surface S1 flows toward the end face P1 and swirles around the axis L1 in the first downstream swirling section 75A. A portion of the air reaching the vicinity of the end face P1 enters the inner side of the swirling flow flowing toward the end face P1 and flows in the opposite direction, returning to the first filter element 73A.

[0113] The peripheral surface S1 has a first peripheral surface S3 and a second peripheral surface S4 arranged sequentially from the first filter member 73A toward the end face P1. The first peripheral surface S3 and the second peripheral surface S4 are adjacent to each other. The first peripheral surface S3 defines a first recycling space K13 on its inner side, and the second peripheral surface S4 defines a second recycling space K14 on its inner side.

[0114] The end of the first peripheral surface S3 is connected to the first filter element 73A. The end of the second peripheral surface S4 is connected to the end face P1. In this embodiment, the first peripheral surface S3 is directly connected to the end of the first filter element 73A, but it can also be connected to the first filter element 73A via other components.

[0115] The outlet 77A is provided on the first circumferential surface S3. Furthermore, the outlet 77A is not provided on the second circumferential surface S4. That is, the second circumferential surface S4 extends around the axis L1 in a manner that it is closed in the circumferential direction.

[0116] Foreign matter flowing from the first filter element 73A into the first downstream swirling section 75A is swirled towards the end face P1 within the first downstream swirling section 75A by the swirling flow moving towards the end face P1. Furthermore, the foreign matter is pressed against the first circumferential surface S3 and the second circumferential surface S4 by the centrifugal force generated by the swirling of the foreign matter. Foreign matter reaching the end face P1 is pressed against the end face P1 by the swirling flow moving towards the end face P1.

[0117] like Figure 11 As shown, the radial dimension R1 of the circumferential surface S1 increases in the direction from the first filter member 73A toward the end face P1. The radial dimension D2 of the second circumferential surface S4 is larger than the radial dimension D1 of the first filter member 73A. In this embodiment, the radial dimension R1 is the diameter.

[0118] Specifically, the first circumferential surface S3 has an enlarged diameter portion S5 with an increased radial dimension R1 at a position adjacent to the first filter element 73A. In the enlarged diameter portion S5, the radial dimension R1 increases from the diameter D1 of the first filter element 73A to the diameter D2. The enlarged diameter portion S5 has a tapered shape with a gradually increasing diameter. In an embodiment, the enlarged diameter portion S5 presents an inclined surface in a cross-section viewed from any radial R1, but is not limited to this. The enlarged diameter portion S5 may also be a step or a curved shape.

[0119] The enlarged diameter section S5 expands radially R1. Therefore, even when the block is affected by air flowing axially V1 and V2 from near the end face P1 towards the filter components 73A and 73B respectively, the return of air to the filter components 73A and 73B can be suppressed by the contact between the block and the enlarged diameter section S5. In particular, as... Figure 11 As shown, when the expansion section S5 has a conical shape, the centrifugal force applied to the block acts on the expansion section S5, thereby acting on the block towards the end face P1 side, which can suppress the block from returning to the filter components 73A and 73B.

[0120] Furthermore, the first circumferential surface S3 has a cylindrical portion S6 downstream of the expanded diameter portion S5, with a constant radial dimension R1 and a diameter D2. The second circumferential surface S4 has the same constant radial dimension R1 as the cylindrical portion S6, with a diameter D2.

[0121] As described above, the radial dimension R1 (diameter D2) of the second circumferential surface S4 is larger than the radial dimension R1 (diameter D1) of the upstream side of the inlet side of the first circumferential surface S3, i.e., the expansion section S5. This difference in radial dimension R1 suppresses the return of foreign matter from the downstream swirling sections 75A and 75B towards the filter members 73A and 73B. Consequently, in the downstream swirling sections 75A and 75B, foreign matter is subjected to centrifugal force and pressed against the first circumferential surface S3 and the second circumferential surface S4. Furthermore, the swirling flow from the filter members 73A and 73B towards the end face P1 easily maintains the state where foreign matter is pressed against the downstream end face P1 while rotating. Therefore, in the downstream swirling sections 75A and 75B, foreign matter easily comes into contact with each other and easily entangles, promoting the formation of foreign matter clumps.

[0122] In addition, the dimension D12 of the axial V1 of the second circumferential surface S4 is smaller than the dimension D11 of the axial V1 of the first circumferential surface S3.

[0123] When the foreign object grows to a certain extent in the second recovery space K14, the volume of the object protruding radially inward from the second peripheral surface S4 increases. As the volume of the object protruding radially inward increases, it becomes susceptible to the influence of air flowing from near the end face P1 toward the first filter element 73A from the inside of the second recovery space K14. The object is pushed back into the first recovery space K13 within the first peripheral surface S3 by the air.

[0124] In other words, before growing to a certain extent, the block remains in the second recycling space K14, thus preventing small blocks from returning to the first recycling space K13. Therefore, it is possible to prevent small blocks from flowing into the recycling section 76 through the discharge port 77A.

[0125] The discharge port 77A is located in the upper half (+Z side half) of the first circumferential surface S3. Specifically, the discharge port 77A is located in the upper part of the first circumferential surface S3, extending circumferentially from the uppermost point of the first circumferential surface S3 to both sides. The dimension of the discharge port 77A along the circumferential direction is larger than the dimension D12 of the axial V1 of the second circumferential surface S4. With this structure, blocks grown in the second recycling space K14 can easily pass through the discharge port 77A. Even larger blocks can pass through the discharge port 77A, thus suppressing the retention of foreign matter blocks in the second recycling space K14. In addition, the dimension D12 of the axial V1 of the second circumferential surface S4 is smaller than the dimension D13 of the axial V1 of the discharge port 77A.

[0126] Furthermore, the discharge port 77A can also have other sizes and shapes. By adjusting the size and shape of the discharge port 77A, the size of the block flowing into the recycling section 76 can be adjusted.

[0127] Next, refer to Figures 6-8 The flow of air and foreign objects in the collection device 7 is explained.

[0128] like Figure 7 As shown, when the air supply device 9 ( Figure 1A When driven, air flows from the rotating drum 4 into the inlet 71 through the air inlet 81, flows upward, and is split towards the openings 84A and 84B.

[0129] Air flowing into the upstream swirling sections 72A and 72B through openings 84A and 84B respectively flows along the peripheral walls 83A and 83B in the swirling directions C1 and C2, forming swirling flows. While swirling, the swirling flows travel towards the filter components 73A and 73B in the axial directions V1 and V2 respectively.

[0130] like Figure 8 As shown, a portion of the swirling air reaching the filter components 73A and 73B flows into the internal space K1 of the housing 70 through the filters 85A and 85B, respectively. The air flowing into the internal space K1 passes through the filter 74 and the heat pump device 6 in sequence and flows out from the collection device 7 through the exhaust port 82.

[0131] like Figure 6 As shown, a portion of the swirling flow remains inside the filters 85A and 85B, and travels towards the downstream swirling sections 75A and 75B along axes V1 and V2, respectively. Specifically, the swirling flow is guided by the first circumferential surface S3 to reach the second recovery space K14 inside the second circumferential surface S4. As the swirling flow continues to swirl in the second recovery space K14, foreign objects such as thread ends contained in the swirling flow become entangled and form blocks.

[0132] As the block grows, it is influenced by air returning from end face P1 towards filter members 73A and 73B on the inner side of the downstream swirling sections 75A and 75B, and flows into the first recovery space K13 inside the first circumferential surface S3. Furthermore, a sufficient centrifugal force acts on the block in the first recovery space K13, and a force acting on the outer side of the radial R1 acts on the block. Thus, the block flows from the first recovery space K13 into the recovery section 76 via discharge ports 77A and 77B. Additionally, if the block grows to a size larger than, for example, the axial V1 dimension D12 of the second circumferential surface S4, a sufficient centrifugal force acts on the block in the second recovery space K14. In this case, the block also flows into the recovery section 76 via discharge ports 77A and 77B.

[0133] [Effect 1]

[0134] The dryer 1 according to the embodiment can achieve the following effects.

[0135] As described above, the dryer 1 of the embodiment includes: a housing 2; a rotating drum 4 (receiving tank) rotatably disposed within the housing 2; an air supply device 9 that supplies air into the rotating drum 4; and a collection device 7 that collects foreign matter from the air passing through the rotating drum 4. The dryer 1 also includes an airflow path 8 that connects the air supply device 9, the rotating drum 4, and the collection device 7. The collection device 7 has: an inlet 71 extending from an air intake 81 communicating with the rotating drum 4; and a first upstream swirling section 72A (upstream swirling section) communicating with the inlet 71, causing the inflowing air to swirl while being transported in the axial direction V1 (first direction). The collection device 7 has: a filter element 73A (filter part) disposed downstream of the first upstream swirling section 72A, having a cylindrical shape extending about the axial direction V1; and a housing 60 (airflow section) surrounding the filter element 73A. The collection device 7 includes: a first downstream swirl section 75A (downstream swirl section), which is arranged in the axial direction V1 with the filter screen member 73A and has a circumferential surface S1 extending around the axial direction V1; an end face P1, which closes the end of the circumferential surface S1 of the first downstream swirl section 75A; and a first recovery section 76A (recovery section), which communicates with the discharge port 77A provided on the circumferential surface S1.

[0136] This structure allows foreign matter to agglomerate into clumps, which are then stored as clumps in the first recovery section 76A. This prevents foreign matter from remaining on the filter screen, thus inhibiting its adhesion and penetration. Furthermore, compared to storing unagglomerated foreign matter, the dispersal of fine foreign matter from the first recovery section 76A is reduced when the clumps are discarded. Moreover, the first recovery section 76A can store more foreign matter. Therefore, the convenience of the dryer 1 is improved.

[0137] Furthermore, in the dryer 1 of the embodiment, the peripheral surface S1 of the first downstream swivel section 75A has: a first peripheral surface S3, which is provided with a discharge port 77A; and a second peripheral surface S4, which is arranged with the first peripheral surface S3 in the axial direction V1 and is closed in the circumferential direction.

[0138] With this structure, compared to the case where the outlet 77A is located on the second circumferential surface S4, it is possible to suppress the passage of uncondensed foreign matter through the outlet 77A. By placing the outlet 77A on the first circumferential surface S3, after the block has grown inside the second circumferential surface S4, air returning from the end face P1 can come into contact with the block and pass through the outlet 77A. Therefore, it is possible to promote the condensation of foreign matter and block growth. Thus, the convenience of the dryer 1 is further improved.

[0139] Furthermore, in the dryer 1 of the embodiment, the discharge port 77A is partially provided in the circumferential direction at the first circumferential surface S3.

[0140] With this structure, compared to the case where the outlet 77A is located in the circumferential whole, it is easier to maintain the swirling flow and make it easier for foreign matter to condense.

[0141] In addition, in the dryer 1 of the embodiment, the end face P1 closes the end of the second circumferential surface S4 that is farther from the first circumferential surface S3.

[0142] This structure makes it easy to maintain a swirling flow.

[0143] Furthermore, in the dryer 1 of the embodiment, the dimension D12 of the second circumferential surface S4 along the axial direction V1 is smaller than the dimension D13 of the outlet 77A along the axial direction V1.

[0144] With this structure, the block formed in the space inside the second circumferential surface S4 can be discharged from the outlet 77A.

[0145] Furthermore, in the dryer 1 of the embodiment, the radial dimension D2 of the second circumferential surface S4 is larger than the radial dimension D1 of the filter screen member 73A.

[0146] With this structure, centrifugal force acts on the foreign object in the space inside the second circumferential surface S4, and the foreign object is pressed against the second circumferential surface S4. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the foreign object from returning to the first filter member 73A, which is upstream of the first circumferential surface S3.

[0147] Furthermore, in the dryer 1 of the embodiment, the radial dimension R1 of the first circumferential surface S3 is increased toward the end face P1.

[0148] With this structure, foreign objects can be guided to the first peripheral surface S3 with the discharge port 77A and the return of foreign objects to the first filter member 73A upstream of the first peripheral surface S3 can be prevented.

[0149] Furthermore, in the dryer 1 of the embodiment, when viewed from a direction orthogonal to the axial direction V1, the first circumferential surface S3 has an inclined surface (expanded diameter portion S5) that expands toward the end face P1.

[0150] With this structure, even when the block in the first downstream swirl section 75A is affected by the reverse flow of air flowing from the end face P1 toward the first filter member 73A, the block with centrifugal force contacts the expansion section S5, so the force acting on the end face P1 side acts on the block, and the block can be prevented from returning to the first filter member 73A.

[0151] Furthermore, in the dryer 1 of the embodiment, the collecting device 7 is located above the rotating drum 4. The discharge ports 77A and 77B are located on the upper half of the circumferential surface S1 of the first downstream rotating section 75A.

[0152] With this structure, users can easily access the first recycling section 76A, which is connected to the discharge port 77A, and easily discard foreign objects stored in the first recycling section 76A.

[0153] Furthermore, in the dryer 1 of the embodiment, the first recovery section 76A can be detached from the first downstream swivel section 75A.

[0154] This structure makes it easier to discard foreign objects stored in the first recycling section 76A.

[0155] Furthermore, this disclosure is not limited to any particular implementation method and can be implemented in various other forms.

[0156] In this specification, for convenience, the names of the constituent elements are referred to as "the first" and "the second". That is, it is also possible that the first upstream rotating part 72A is located on the +X side and the second upstream rotating part 72B is located on the -X side.

[0157] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the example described is a drum-type washing machine with a washing function, but it is not limited to this. Any dryer that has a heating air drying function, such as a simple dryer without a washing function, can also be used.

[0158] Furthermore, in the embodiment, an example of the collecting device 7 having two upstream swirling sections 72A and 72B and two filter elements 73A and 73B has been described, but it is not limited to this. Alternatively, the collecting device 7 may have other upstream swirling sections and filter elements besides the upstream swirling sections 72A and 72B and the filter elements 73A and 73B.

[0159] Furthermore, in this embodiment, an example has been described where the rotation directions of the upstream rotating portions 72A and 72B are opposite to each other, but this is not a limitation. The rotation directions of the upstream rotating portions 72A and 72B may also be the same.

[0160] Furthermore, in this embodiment, an example has been described where the upstream rotating portions 72A and 72B are adjacent to each other at end 87, but this is not a limitation. The upstream rotating portions 72A and 72B may also be arranged with a certain degree of spacing rather than being adjacent.

[0161] Furthermore, in this embodiment, examples of openings 84A and 84B being opposite are described, but this is not a limitation. Openings 84A and 84B may also open in any direction.

[0162] Furthermore, in the embodiments, an example is described in which filter components 73A and 73B have filter screens 85A and 85B covering the entire circumference, but this is not a limitation.

[0163] Furthermore, in this embodiment, an example of forming a protrusion 78 in the upstream swirling section 72 has been described, but it is not limited to this. The protrusion 78 may also be omitted from the trapping device 7. In addition, the trapping device 7 may also have other wall portions that are opposite to the air intake 81 of the inflow section 71 and deflect the air in the inflow section 71 toward the respective openings 84A, 84B.

[0164] The dryer of the first form includes: a housing; a receiving tank disposed within the housing; an air supply device for supplying air into the receiving tank; a collection device for collecting foreign matter from the air passing through the receiving tank; and an airflow path connecting the air supply device, the receiving tank, and the collection device. The collection device has: an inlet portion extending from an air intake communicating with the receiving tank; an upstream swirling portion communicating with the inlet portion, causing the inflowing air to swirl while being transported in a first direction; a filter portion disposed downstream of the upstream swirling portion, having a cylindrical shape extending around the first direction; an airflow path portion surrounding the filter portion; a downstream swirling portion disposed in a position aligned with the filter portion in the first direction, having a circumferential surface extending around the first direction; an end face closing the end of the circumferential surface of the downstream swirling portion; and a recovery portion communicating with an outlet disposed on the circumferential surface.

[0165] The second type of dryer, based on the first type of dryer, has the following on the circumferential surface of the downstream rotating part: a first circumferential surface having an outlet; and a second circumferential surface arranged with the first circumferential surface in a first direction and closed in the circumferential direction.

[0166] The third type of dryer is based on the second type of dryer, but the outlet is partially set in the circumferential direction on the first circumferential surface.

[0167] The fourth type of dryer is based on the second or third type of dryer, but the end face of the second circumferential surface is closed at the end that is farther away from the first circumferential surface.

[0168] The fifth type of dryer is based on any of the second to fourth types of dryers, but the dimension of the second circumferential surface along the first direction is smaller than the dimension of the outlet along the first direction.

[0169] The sixth type of dryer is based on the fourth type of dryer, but the radial dimension of the second circumference is larger than the radial dimension of the filter section.

[0170] The seventh type of dryer is based on the sixth type of dryer, but the radial dimension of the first circumferential surface is enlarged towards the end face.

[0171] The eighth type of dryer, based on the seventh type of dryer, has an inclined surface on the first circumferential surface that expands toward the end face when viewed from a direction orthogonal to the first direction.

[0172] The dryer in the ninth form is based on the dryer in any of the first to eighth forms, with the collection device located above the collection tank and the discharge outlet located in the upper half of the circumferential surface of the downstream vortex.

[0173] The dryer of the 10th type is based on the dryer of any of the 1st to 9th types, and the recovery section can be disassembled relative to the downstream rotating section.

[0174] This disclosure has been fully described with reference to the accompanying drawings and preferred embodiments; however, various modifications and variations will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Such modifications and variations are to be understood as included therein, provided they do not depart from the scope of the invention as defined in the appended claims.

[0175] Industrial availability

[0176] The dryer disclosed herein can improve the collection efficiency of the collection device used in the dryer, and is therefore useful as a household clothes dryer, a commercial clothes dryer, or any type of washing and drying machine (e.g., a household drum washing machine).

Claims

1. A dryer, wherein, The dryer includes: case; A storage slot is provided inside the housing; An air supply device that supplies air into the receiving trough; A collection device that captures foreign objects from the air passing through the collection slot; and An airflow path connects the air supply device, the receiving trough, and the collecting device. The trapping device has: The inflow section extends from the air intake that communicates with the receiving slot; An upstream swirling section, which is connected to the inflow section, allows the inflowing air to swirl while being transported in the first direction; The filter section, located downstream of the upstream swivel section, has a cylindrical shape extending about the first direction; The air passage section surrounds the filter section; The downstream swivel section is located at a position aligned with the filter section in the first direction and has a circumferential surface extending around the first direction; The end face, which closes the circumferential surface of the downstream swivel portion; and The recovery section is connected to the discharge port located on the periphery.

2. The dryer according to claim 1, wherein, The circumferential surface of the downstream rotating portion has: a first circumferential surface having the outlet; and a second circumferential surface arranged with the first circumferential surface in the first direction and closed in the circumferential direction.

3. The dryer according to claim 2, wherein, The outlet is partially provided circumferentially on the first circumferential surface.

4. The dryer according to claim 2, wherein, The end face closes the end of the second circumferential surface that is farther from the first circumferential surface.

5. The dryer according to claim 2, wherein, The dimension of the second circumferential surface along the first direction is smaller than the dimension of the outlet along the first direction.

6. The dryer according to claim 4, wherein, The radial dimension of the second circumferential surface is larger than the radial dimension of the filter section.

7. The dryer according to claim 6, wherein, The radial dimension of the first circumferential surface increases toward the end face.

8. The dryer according to claim 7, wherein, When viewed from a direction orthogonal to the first direction, the first circumferential surface has an inclined surface that expands toward the end face.

9. The dryer according to claim 1, wherein, The trapping device is located above the collection tank. The outlet is located on the upper half of the circumferential surface of the downstream rotating part.

10. The dryer according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein, The recovery section can be disassembled relative to the downstream rotating section.

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