Siphon module for a household appliance

Abstract

A siphon module (10) for a domestic appliance, the siphon module (10) comprising a first siphon-type element (40) configured to be integrated in a first circuit, a first inlet (60) configured to be fluidically connected to the first siphon-type element (40), a first outlet (70) configured to be fluidically connected to the first siphon-type element (40), a second siphon-type element (50) configured to be integrated in a second circuit, a second inlet (80) configured to be fluidically connected to the second siphon-type element (50), and a second outlet (90) configured to be fluidically connected to the second siphon-type element (50).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a siphon module, particularly for use in household appliances, more particularly for dryers, washing machines, or washer-dryer combos, and most particularly for dryers or washer-dryer combos that include, for example, a heat pump with a heat exchanger cleaning function. The siphon module is suitable for fluids, particularly gases and / or liquids, more particularly aqueous fluids, and most particularly water. The invention also relates to a household appliance incorporating a siphon module and the use of the siphon module in household appliances. Background Technology

[0002] Document EP 4 219 823 A1 discloses a condenser-type clothes dryer having a drum rotatably mounted in a housing, a fan for generating a process airflow intended to flow through the drum and through a condenser assembly, the condenser assembly including a collection chamber and a condensate tank connected to the collection chamber by means of a pipeline, the collection chamber for collecting condensate accumulated during the drying process, the condensate tank being arranged in a trough connected to the collection chamber by means of a drain outlet. The condensate collected in the collection chamber is typically pumped to the condensate tank. The condensate tank is located in the trough, which includes a drain outlet leading to the collection chamber. This allows condensate leaking from the condensate tank to be discharged into the collection chamber. The dryer also includes a siphon-like element located in the pump line and / or overflow line. However, the process airflow is connected to the environment via the drain outlet, causing indoor air to be drawn into the already dried process air.

[0003] In the prior art, siphon-like elements are made of tubing. In order to achieve the desired and necessary shape of such tubing to provide siphon function within the tubing, the tubing must be processed by additional processes, such as thermoforming, which is very time-consuming, very complex and very expensive.

[0004] Furthermore, the entire distance from the condensate collection chamber to the pump line and overflow line to the condensate tank must be covered by hoses or hose systems. Such hoses must be assembled and installed within the appliance using multiple clamps. Due to their flexibility, these hoses must be secured within the appliance. Therefore, additional features such as clamps or guiding elements are required. These hoses also pose a risk of failure, such as breakage or tearing.

[0005] In this type of household appliance in the prior art, multiple hoses and clamps are connected to and from multiple water control systems and / or multiple water management systems. Consequently, multiple valves are also required.

[0006] Therefore, the existing technology requires multiple components, such as multiple hoses, multiple clamps, and multiple valves, to connect to and from multiple operating systems and / or multiple management systems. These hoses, clamps, and valves occupy space in the device and / or appliance and require careful and correct assembly, which is complex, time-consuming, and a source of error. Hoses, clamps, and valves come in various shapes and structures and have different physical properties. For various systems, various hoses, clamps, and valves with different, slightly different, or quite similar physical characteristics (e.g., strength, durability, or flexibility) are used. Thus, these hoses and / or clamps and / or valves can have similar appearances and / or external forms. This creates a risk of error when incorrect hoses and / or clamps and / or valves are installed in the wrong multiple operating systems and / or multiple management systems, and / or installed in the wrong location, and / or installed in the reverse manner within one of the systems and / or locations. This risk always exists when multiple components must be assembled, even if they have different appearances. This risk increases significantly with each additional component that needs to be assembled. Therefore, the more variable parts there are that must be assembled, the more errors there are and the higher the risk.

[0007] Errors during assembly may cause, for example, hoses and / or clamps and / or valves to become loose, or hoses and / or clamps and / or valves and / or other parts of the system and / or device and / or appliance to break. This may partially or completely damage the appliance and / or the environment surrounding the appliance.

[0008] The drawback of this solution is the use of multiple parts and / or components with multiple connectors, which requires a significant amount of work in manipulation, quality control, and assembly. Multiple interfaces between fluid-guided components also increase the risk of misassembly and leakage. To prevent such errors as in the prior art, it is necessary to add control during the assembly process, which requires the installation of additional equipment such as robot vision or the use of additional quality control processes, both of which increase the cost and time required to produce household appliances. Using multiple parts also results in higher material costs compared to using fewer parts or even a single part to meet all the required functions. Furthermore, assemblies consisting of multiple components require more assembly space. Summary of the Invention

[0009] The purpose of this invention is to overcome these shortcomings, particularly to simplify dryers or washer-dryer combos.

[0010] These objectives are achieved by the siphon module according to claim 1, the household appliance according to claim 10, and the use of the siphon module in a household appliance according to claim 11. Preferred embodiments are disclosed in the dependent claims and are presented in the specification.

[0011] The present invention can provide, for example, improved drying performance, easier and / or faster assembly processes, and / or reduced production costs.

[0012] This invention optimizes multiple guiding systems, multiple operating systems, and / or multiple management systems by integrating a siphon module. Thus, multiple independent components and their functions of the various guiding systems, operating systems, and / or management systems can be combined into a single siphon module, thereby reducing the number of parts, particularly to just one part, and more specifically, just one part for all siphon-type elements.

[0013] The guidance system, manipulation system and / or management system disclosed herein, as well as the included siphon module, are applicable to fluids, particularly gases and / or liquids, more particularly aqueous fluids, and most particularly water.

[0014] According to one embodiment, the present invention relates to a siphon module, for example, for use in a household appliance. The siphon module may include: a first siphon-type element configured to be integrated into a first circuit; a first inlet configured to be fluidly connected to the first siphon-type element; a first outlet configured to be fluidly connected to the first siphon-type element; a second siphon-type element configured to be integrated into a second circuit; a second inlet configured to be fluidly connected to the second siphon-type element; and a second outlet configured to be fluidly connected to the second siphon-type element.

[0015] This invention may relate to a system for direct pump flushing based on one or more components (e.g., a heat exchanger). Flushing is specifically carried out for cleaning one or more components (e.g., a heat exchanger), for example, to remove lint.

[0016] During the drying cycle, fluid removed from the clothing (e.g., aqueous fluid, such as water) can be collected in the base module and, based on a signal from the level electrode, periodically pumped to the condensate container by a system consisting of at least one valve, or only one valve, or at most one valve, and at least one routing / distribution component suitable for the fluid (preferably 2 to 10, more preferably 4 to 8, such as channels, pipes, and siphon modules). The pumping time can be based on the signal from the level electrode.

[0017] The present invention may relate to a gravity-based flushing system for directing fluid to or from one or more elements (e.g., heat exchangers), said heat exchangers being, for example, one or more evaporators and / or one or more condensers, for example, flushing at least one of said heat exchangers by means of an airflow.

[0018] The present invention may also relate to a system for gravity flushing based on one or more elements (e.g., heat exchangers) and direct pump flushing based on one or more additional elements (e.g., heat exchangers).

[0019] The siphon module disclosed herein may be part of and / or used in a household appliance. The siphon module disclosed herein includes at least one siphon-type element. A "siphon-type element" is specifically a part of a fluid conduit where liquid is collected and thereby prevents the passage of gas while allowing liquid flow. A siphon-type element (also called a siphon tube or water trap) is typically formed by a U-shaped portion of a conduit designed to trap liquid or gas to prevent unwanted flow. Siphon-type elements can serve various purposes and / or functions, such as blocking gases and / or odors, decoupling systems, separating systems, isolating systems, and reducing leaks. Therefore, having one or more siphon-type elements in a household appliance may be useful, preferred, and / or necessary. More specifically, for example within a household appliance, a siphon-type element can reduce leaks to specific parts of a system, such as a guiding system, a control system, and / or a management system, by isolating and / or separating different pressures in different parts of the system from each other. For example, siphonic elements can reduce leakage into the negative-pressure heat exchanger section within a dryer or washer-dryer combo, for instance, by isolating the heat exchanger section from atmospheric pressure in the rest of the system. For example, a fluid container, being part of the system, is at atmospheric pressure and can be isolated from the negative-pressure heat exchanger section by a siphonic element. Siphonic elements can also reduce leakage into external parts not part of the guiding, operating, and / or management systems, such as within household appliances, like the drum section of a dryer or washer-dryer combo.

[0020] The siphon element can be a siphon channel. This preferred embodiment can have the function of guiding and / or transferring fluid from one location to another within a system and / or household appliance.

[0021] The siphon module disclosed herein does not consist of or include any type of hose or hose-like element. Such elements used in the prior art are flexible and / or bendable at room temperature, such as hoses, for example, used in household appliances. Flexibility and / or bendability can be understood as such an element can easily change its shape and can be easily bent by forces exerted by an ordinary person. Flexibility and / or bendability can be understood as such an element will be substantially straight under the influence of gravity. For a siphon-type element to function, such an element (e.g., a hose) must be processed by special manufacturing processes (e.g., by thermoforming) to achieve the necessary stiffness and / or stability. Such processes are complex, time-consuming, energy-intensive, and expensive. Therefore, the siphon module disclosed herein does not consist of or includes such an element, which possesses sufficient flexibility and / or bendability at room temperature under forces exerted by an ordinary person. Necessary stiffness and / or stability should be understood as such an element being able to withstand gravity and / or forces exerted by an ordinary person to prevent changes in the shape and / or position of the element.

[0022] The size and / or shape of the siphon module are not particularly limited, but are preferably adjusted according to the corresponding space in the respective household appliance. The height of the siphon module is preferably between 20 mm and 300 mm, more preferably between 40 mm and 200 mm, and most preferably between 60 mm and 120 mm. The width of the siphon module is preferably between 10 mm and 200 mm, more preferably between 20 mm and 160 mm, and most preferably between 30 mm and 80 mm. The depth of the siphon module is preferably between 10 mm and 200 mm, more preferably between 20 mm and 160 mm, and most preferably between 30 mm and 80 mm. The cross-sectional shape of the siphon module is not particularly limited, but is preferably elliptical or pear-shaped to provide sufficient fluid flow through the siphon module.

[0023] A siphon module may include at least one or at least two siphon-type elements, preferably three to ten, more preferably four to eight, and most preferably five to six. The siphon-type element may be a siphon-type channel or any other system for guiding, directing, and / or distributing fluid and capable of achieving any type of siphon function. The terms siphon-type element and siphon-type channel should be understood broadly as an element or channel adapted to guide fluid from one point to another while providing a siphon function. The siphon-type element is not limited to any particular shape or design and may be at least substantially tubular, as this form is easy to manufacture and suitable for guiding fluid. The cross-section of the siphon-type element is preferably constant along its length, as such a shape is easy to manufacture, but it may also be variable along its length, as such variation allows the siphon module to adapt to the environment in which it is used. The cross-section may have a shape that is at least substantially circular, elliptical, rectangular, square, or a variable undefined and / or irregular shape, or similar or different shapes. Each of these shapes is useful in different environments, such as in household appliances, and the siphon module can be adapted accordingly to meet geometric requirements.

[0024] The siphon element can have at least a substantially cuboid shape, and can be curved or arc-shaped, which can simplify production and / or the process of implementing the siphon element into the siphon module, depending on the available space in the siphon module and / or household appliance. Within the cuboid-shaped siphon element, two or more sections of the fluid conduit formed in the siphon element can be arranged side by side.

[0025] The siphon element can have at least a substantially ellipsoidal shape, which can improve the implementation of the siphon module in the household appliance based on the available space in the appliance.

[0026] The siphon element can have an irregular shape, which allows for improved implementation of the siphon module within the appliance, taking into account the available space. This also maximizes the fluid capacity of the siphon element, considering the available space within the appliance.

[0027] Here, "at least substantially" or "substantially" should be understood to mean that, when the shape is substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal direction, there may be a deviation of up to 20% from the shape (or other feature). The diameter or internal width of the siphon element may be between 1 mm and 100 mm, preferably between 2 mm and 30 mm, and more preferably between 5 mm and 20 mm.

[0028] In the presence of more than one siphon-type element, the elements are numbered herein as first, second, third, fourth, etc. This numbering is arbitrary and is used only to distinguish the elements within this disclosure.

[0029] In this disclosure, the first siphon element may refer to a pump-type siphon element, preferably within a pump circuit. In this disclosure, the second siphon element may refer to an overflow siphon element, preferably within an overflow circuit.

[0030] The possible materials for the siphon module are those suitable for the conditions in the corresponding device and / or household appliance. The material must be fluid-tight, particularly with respect to gases and / or liquids, more particularly with respect to aqueous fluids, and most particularly with respect to water. The material must possess the necessary stiffness and / or stability over a temperature range of 0°C to 100°C, wherein the siphon module should not be substantially bendable and / or substantially deformable under forces that can be applied by an ordinary person. A potentially preferred material is one that can be molded, more preferably injection molded. This provides the possibility of easily and cost-effectively producing siphon modules as disclosed herein. The material is preferably a plastic or rubber, particularly a thermoplastic resin.

[0031] The inlet is configured to be fluidly connected to the siphon element. Preferably, the inlet is connected to one end or a portion of the siphon element. The end or portion refers to a portion that preferably comprises less than 30%, more preferably less than 20%, and most preferably less than 10% of the siphon element.

[0032] The outlet is configured to be fluidly connected to the siphon element. Preferably, the outlet is connected to one end or a portion of the siphon element. The end or portion refers to a portion that preferably comprises less than 30%, more preferably less than 20%, and most preferably less than 10% of the siphon element.

[0033] A first inlet and / or a first outlet may be fluidly connected to a first siphon element. A second inlet and / or a second outlet may be fluidly connected to a second siphon element.

[0034] The siphon module can be placed on and / or assembled into the back panel of the household appliance. A portion of the siphon module, such as the inlet and / or outlet, can extend from the back panel of the household appliance. This feature allows for easy assembly of external features, such as external hoses, from the outside of the household appliance. The siphon module can be installed on the rear panel of the household appliance. The siphon tube can be installed and / or positioned at a sufficient distance from other components of the household appliance (e.g., rotating parts, such as the drum of a dryer or washer-dryer combo, or parts that should not come into contact with fluid). This can improve the stability, durability, and lifespan of the corresponding system and the corresponding household appliance.

[0035] There may be at least one inlet and / or at least one outlet connected to a siphon element. Preferably, there may be more than one inlet and / or more than one outlet fluidly connected to the siphon element to receive fluid from or distribute fluid to a desired location. If there is more than one inlet connected to the siphon element, the inlets may be located at different locations within the siphon element. If there is more than one outlet connected to the siphon element, the outlets may be located at different locations within the siphon element.

[0036] The first and / or second loops may be examples of the guidance, manipulation, and / or management systems mentioned herein.

[0037] The guiding, manipulating, and / or managing system can be one or more systems, preferably two to six, more preferably three to four, for guiding fluid to or from one or more elements (e.g., heat exchangers), such as guiding or discharging fluid to or from one or more evaporators and / or guiding or discharging fluid to or from one or more condensers. The guiding, manipulating, and / or managing system can be one or more systems, preferably two to six, more preferably three to four, for guiding fluid to or discharging fluid from one or more overflow systems and / or guiding or discharging fluid to or from one or more condensate containers. The guiding, manipulating, and / or managing system can be any fluid-related system within a household appliance.

[0038] Therefore, in this disclosure, compared with the prior art, the number of assembly parts required for household appliances, the assembly time, and the assembly space used are all reduced, and the amount of assembly work required is also reduced. Furthermore, compared with the prior art, the fewer parts in this disclosure result in lower material costs, less component handling work, and less quality control work.

[0039] One possible guiding, operating, and / or managing system could be a pump system or pump circuit. The pump system or pump circuit could be an example of a first circuit. The condensate fluid can be stored in the base module. The condensate fluid can be transferred from the base module to the fluid container via a pump. The condensate fluid can be drawn by the pump and can be transferred to the fluid container via one or more hoses, and / or one or more channels, and / or one or more siphon elements. The fluid can be pumped from other areas of the household appliance (e.g., from heat exchanger areas where negative pressure may occur and / or exist). Atmospheric pressure can be present in the condensate container. Whenever the pump is turned on, the siphon elements in the pump circuit can be filled with fluid, thus isolating the pump circuit from atmospheric pressure.

[0040] One possible guiding, maneuvering, and / or management system could be an overflow system or overflow loop. An overflow system or overflow loop could be an example of a second loop. In the event that the fluid container is full, excess fluid may overflow from the fluid container and may enter one or more hoses, and / or one or more channels, and / or one or more siphon-type elements to reach the base module.

[0041] Pump circuits and overflow circuits are two examples of possible guiding, operating, and / or managing systems. A pump circuit can be a fluid system within a household appliance, and a siphon-type element within such a pump circuit can allow the circuit to be isolated from atmospheric pressure. A pump circuit can be a closed system in which fluid circulates through a pump. Furthermore, the siphon-type element can stabilize pump operation, reduce the risk of leakage in the system, and improve process efficiency and stability, for example, within a household appliance. An overflow circuit can be a fluid system within a household appliance, and a siphon-type element within such a pump circuit can allow the circuit to prevent pressure loss within the household appliance and can enhance the stability of processes within the household appliance, such as drying clothes and fluid flow. Overflow circuits can be implemented in household appliances to operate adjacent to or in parallel with a pump circuit, independently or, for example, fluidly connected to a pump circuit via a bypass, to provide additional stability to one or more systems. The siphon-type element within the overflow circuit can have a supporting function of isolating the circuit from atmospheric pressure. The siphon-type element in the overflow circuit allows fluid to flow freely within the system while maintaining isolation from atmospheric pressure, which can help reduce pressure loss throughout the system.

[0042] In such a system, there can be one or more areas with atmospheric pressure and one or more areas with negative pressure. To separate those areas with different pressures in a household appliance and to improve processes within the appliance (e.g., the drying process in a dryer), a siphon module can be introduced. A siphon module can integrate one, two, or more siphon-type elements (e.g., pump siphons and overflow siphons) into a single module or component. The siphon module can be configured as a fluid-sealing component. At least one pump and at least one hose can be connected to the siphon module to deliver fluid over a greater distance.

[0043] Whenever the pump is turned on, the siphon can be filled with fluid, thereby isolating systems such as the pump circuit from atmospheric pressure.

[0044] According to one embodiment of the present invention, after the siphon module is manufactured, the first siphon element and the second siphon element can be contained in a single part.

[0045] To reduce the number of parts in household appliances, it is preferable to have as few parts as possible. Therefore, it is preferable to avoid any unnecessary and / or additional parts and / or features, such as additional hoses, pipes, conduits, clamps, and / or valves, and the present invention reduces the number of such additional features.

[0046] This is possible when the first and second siphon elements can be contained in a single part. Then, only a single part needs to be attached and connected, instead of multiple parts. Furthermore, repairing or replacing this single part is much easier and faster.

[0047] Furthermore, the siphon module disclosed herein can incorporate more than two siphon-type elements. These more than two siphon-type elements can be contained in a single part, thereby further reducing the number of parts. In other words, the number of siphon-type elements contained in a single part is not limited to a specific number and can be adapted to the requirements of corresponding household appliances in the siphon module disclosed herein as needed. The number of siphon-type elements is preferably 2 to 8, more preferably 3 to 6, and most preferably 4 to 5.

[0048] According to one embodiment of the present invention, after the siphon module is manufactured, the siphon module can be configured such that the siphon module cannot be disassembled, in particular, cannot be disassembled in a non-destructive manner.

[0049] This siphon module cannot be disassembled and will not loosen or detach during use in household appliances, thereby minimizing the risk of device maintenance and failure.

[0050] If the siphon module consists of multiple parts, these parts can be connected together in a manner that prevents them from being separated and / or disassembled without damaging the siphon module. For example, the multiple parts can be joined together by welding or by form-fitting connections (especially snap-fit ​​connections).

[0051] Advantageously, the siphon module is a single, preferably integrally connected component that cannot be disassembled into multiple individual parts. This simplifies the production of the corresponding household appliance and reduces the risks associated with maintenance and disassembly during the use of the siphon module.

[0052] A single-piece siphon module can also be provided using methods known in the art, such as 3D printing. This allows for a siphon module consisting of a single assembly of parts. This overcomes the need to attach multiple components together, for example, by welding. Such a siphon module cannot be disassembled and will not loosen during use in the household appliance, thereby minimizing the risk of maintenance and malfunction.

[0053] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the siphon module may include a bypass configured to fluidly connect a first siphon element and a second siphon element.

[0054] A bypass that fluidly connects the first siphon element and the second siphon element provides fluid communication between the elements. Therefore, when one element is filled with fluid, the other element can also be filled with the same fluid.

[0055] In the presence of more than two siphon elements, bypasses can exist between the two siphon elements or between other siphon elements. Bypasses can exist from each siphon element to each other siphon element. Bypasses can exist from more than one siphon element to more than one other siphon element. This provides further possibilities for fluid distribution. This provides further possibilities for decoupling, separating, isolating, and / or reducing leakage in the system. For example, the system can be isolated from atmospheric pressure.

[0056] A bypass can be configured to control the flow of fluid in one direction, the other direction, or both directions between two siphon elements. The bypass can be an opening or a valve, such as a check valve or a two-way valve.

[0057] Size and / or location can affect how quickly and when fluid communication between two siphon elements can be achieved. The cross-section of the bypass can have a shape that is at least substantially circular, elliptical, rectangular, square, or a variable, undefined, and / or irregular shape, or similar or different shapes. The minimum diameter or length and / or width of the bypass can preferably be between 1 mm and 20 mm, more preferably between 2 mm and 16 mm, and most preferably between 4 mm and 10 mm.

[0058] When a siphon element has more than one bypass leading to one or more other siphon elements, the location of these bypasses can vary, affecting the fluid level in the siphon element at which it is in fluid communication with which other siphon element. This allows control over which system is isolated at what time during the operation of a device such as a household appliance.

[0059] According to one embodiment of the invention, a first siphon element and a second siphon element may be formed in two molding parts, particularly two injection molding parts, which are connected together such that the two molding parts cannot be disassembled, particularly not in a non-destructive manner, wherein the connection can be achieved, for example, by welding.

[0060] A preferred possibility for providing the siphon module according to the invention is by using molding, particularly injection molding. Thus, for example, two molded parts, each representing a portion of the siphon module according to the invention, can be provided using molding methods known in the art. These, for example, two parts, can then be joined by any suitable method known in the art, such as welding. Due to the fewer parts, a fluid-tight connection can be easily achieved. More than two molded parts may also be present, preferably three to eight, more preferably four to six. The production process for more than two molded parts may be easier due to the simpler mold shape.

[0061] Molding and injection molding are well-known and proven methods for producing devices such as the siphon module according to the present invention. Therefore, the production process is highly controllable, enabling the manufacture of devices with the necessary quality and durability, while also being time- and cost-effective.

[0062] According to one embodiment of the invention, the siphon module may further include a housing and a cover configured to be fluid-tightly connected to the housing, wherein the housing and / or the cover may include a first siphon element and / or a second siphon element.

[0063] This structure with a shell and cover is very easy to manufacture and quick and easy to assemble. The shell and cover can be joined together in a fluid-tight manner by welding, which is a simple and easily controlled possibility for such connections.

[0064] The first siphon element and / or the second siphon element may be contained only in the housing, only in the cover, or partially in both the housing and the cover.

[0065] According to one embodiment of the present invention, both the first siphon element and the second siphon element can be formed by a housing or a cover, or at least one of the first siphon element and the second siphon element can be formed by both a housing and a cover. In this embodiment, the housing and the cover are preferably injection-molded parts.

[0066] To facilitate simple and flexible production of siphon modules, the first and / or second siphon-type elements can be formed essentially from a housing. Consequently, the cover can be substantially plate-shaped, which simplifies the production process of the siphon module.

[0067] To facilitate simple and flexible production of siphon modules, the first and / or second siphon-type elements can be formed essentially from a cover. Consequently, the housing can be substantially plate-shaped, which simplifies the production process of the siphon module.

[0068] To facilitate simple and flexible production of siphon modules, the first and / or second siphon-type elements can be formed from a housing and a cover. Thus, the elements can be at least partially realized in the housing and at least partially realized in the cover, simplifying the production process of the siphon module.

[0069] According to one embodiment of the invention, the siphon module may be substantially plate-shaped, and the first siphon element and the second siphon element may be arranged along the main extension of the plate. Preferably, the first siphon element and the second siphon element are arranged side by side.

[0070] For ease of management and positioning within the system and / or household appliance, it is advantageous that the siphon module can be substantially plate-shaped. Shape and / or size are not limited herein and can be adapted to the requirements of the system and / or household appliance.

[0071] The first and second siphon elements can be arranged adjacent to each other, or in other words, side by side, to realize a plate-shaped siphon module. This configuration is preferred for simplifying the production process and / or operation of the corresponding siphon module.

[0072] According to one embodiment of the invention, the first siphon element and the second siphon element can be formed in an integral part that cannot be disassembled, in particular, cannot be disassembled in a non-destructive manner.

[0073] As described herein, a single-component siphon module is preferred. Particularly preferred is that the first siphon element, the second siphon element, and any other possible siphon elements are contained within a single, non-removable component, preferably manufactured integrally. This siphon module will not loosen or detach during use in the household appliance, thereby minimizing the risk of maintenance and malfunction.

[0074] According to one embodiment of the invention, the first inlet may be configured to be connected to one end of the first siphon element.

[0075] According to one embodiment of the invention, the first outlet may be configured to be connected to the other end of the first siphon element.

[0076] According to one embodiment of the invention, the second inlet can be configured to be connected to one end of the second siphon element.

[0077] According to one embodiment of the invention, the second outlet can be configured to be connected to the other end of the second siphon element.

[0078] The term "end" or "end portion" refers to a portion that preferably accounts for less than 30%, more preferably less than 20%, and most preferably less than 10% of the siphon element.

[0079] The siphon module may include at least one fixing member and / or at least one retaining member, which can be used to secure the siphon module to or attach it to components within the household appliance. The at least one fixing member and / or at least one retaining member may be implemented within the siphon module, for example, within a housing and / or within a cover. The location of the at least one fixing member and / or at least one retaining member may depend on the available area within the household appliance where the siphon module is to be used, as well as other components.

[0080] According to one embodiment of the present invention, a household appliance, particularly a dryer or washer-dryer combo, may include: a drum for receiving clothes to be dried, a process air system for passing process air through the drum, a condenser for condensing moisture in the process air from the drum, a base module configured to collect fluid, a fluid container for receiving fluid transferred from the base module, an overflow container in which the fluid container is placed, a pump associated with the base module for pumping fluid contained in the base module to the condensate container, and a siphon module as described herein.

[0081] Generally, the present invention can be used in household appliances, such as dryers, washing machines, and / or washer-dryer combos. This can be, for example, the device described in prior art document EP 4 219 823 A1 or any other household appliance.

[0082] This type of dryer or washer-dryer achieves the advantages of the present invention because the siphon module of the present invention enables the improvements described herein. Therefore, for example, fewer parts can be used in such a dryer or washer-dryer. Since multiple guiding systems, operating systems, and / or management systems can share elements of the siphon module of the present invention, the number of hoses, pipes, clamps, and valves is reduced.

[0083] According to one embodiment of the present invention, a siphon module can be used in a household appliance, wherein, after the siphon module is manufactured, it may consist of only a single part that cannot be disassembled non-destructively. The use of the siphon module may include the following steps: fluid-sealing a base module to the siphon module, fluid-sealing a fluid container to the siphon module, and performing at least one of the following steps: pumping fluid from the base module to a first siphon element of the siphon module via a pump, and allowing fluid to further reach the fluid container via the siphon module; and / or using the siphon module to regulate overflow fluid from the fluid container by connecting a second siphon element of the siphon module to the fluid container and the base module; and / or using a bypass included in the siphon module, the bypass being configured to fluidly connect the first siphon element and the second siphon element, wherein, after the siphon module is manufactured, the first siphon element and the second siphon element are contained in a single part.

[0084] Appliances such as dryers may include a heat pump circuit comprising: a refrigerant passage for circulating refrigerant, a condenser as a heat source, an evaporator as a heat sink, an expansion device for expanding the refrigerant, and a compressor for driving and compressing the refrigerant, wherein the refrigerant circulates sequentially through the compressor, condenser, expansion device, and evaporator, and the evaporator is a condensing device. The condenser heats the process airflow before it enters the drum, which serves as the drying chamber, and the evaporator cools the airflow after it leaves the drying chamber.

[0085] The dryer can be a dryer itself, or a washer-dryer combo that combines the functions of washing and drying clothes.

[0086] Furthermore, various alternative appliances with different and / or fewer elements are known. This invention applies to any appliance known in the prior art. Therefore, the general characteristics of such appliances will not be repeated here.

[0087] According to one embodiment of the present invention, a method of using a siphon module, wherein the siphon module, after production, may consist of only a single part that cannot be disassembled non-destructively, the method may include the following steps: fluid-sealing a base module to the siphon module, fluid-sealing a fluid container to the siphon module, and performing at least one of the following steps: pumping fluid from the base module to a first siphon element of the siphon module via a pump, and which may further reach the fluid container through the siphon module; and / or using the siphon module to regulate overflow fluid from the fluid container by connecting a second siphon element of the siphon module to the fluid container and the base module; and / or using a bypass included in the siphon module, the bypass being configured to fluidly connect the first siphon element and the second siphon element, wherein, after the siphon module is produced, the first siphon element and the second siphon element are contained in a single part.

[0088] A possible example of a household appliance could be a device for drying clothes. This is an example of an appliance in which the siphon module of the present invention can be used. The discussion of such appliances is not limited to possible applications and appliances in which the siphon module of the present invention can be used.

[0089] Furthermore, several elements in the apparatus described herein are optional for the apparatus. Therefore, various combinations of necessary elements and multiple optional elements are disclosed, and those skilled in the art will understand which combinations are feasible.

[0090] The device may have a housing containing a closed process air system, the process air system having a drying chamber for accommodating the clothes to be dried. The process air system may include a process air drum, which can be activated by the device's electronic control unit to perform the drying process.

[0091] Furthermore, the device may be a dryer with a heat pump, and may include a heat pump thermally coupled to the process air system, which may be designed as a compressor heat pump. The heat pump may have a condenser capable of heating process air flowing in the process air system, an evaporator capable of cooling and dehumidifying the process air leaving the drying chamber, a compressor, an expansion unit, and one or more refrigerant lines connecting these components of the heat pump to each other, thereby forming a refrigerant circuit for the heat pump.

[0092] The device may have a condensate tray disposed below the condenser and / or evaporator. The device may also have a condensate container and a condensate pump for pumping liquid contained in the condensate tray into the condensate container. The condensate pump may be disposed at a condensate line. Furthermore, the device may have a flushing device connected to the condensate container for flushing the evaporator, and a flushing valve connected between the condensate container and the flushing device.

[0093] Furthermore, the device may have a valve unit that may be connected between the condensate pump and the condensate container, and a flushing unit that may be connected to the valve unit to flush the condenser. The valve unit may be designed such that it connects the condensate pump to the condensate container in a first switching position and connects the condensate pump to the flushing unit in a second switching position.

[0094] The electronic control unit can be designed to control the condensate pump, flush valve, and / or valve unit. Specifically, the electronic control unit can be configured to control the condensate pump, flush valve, and / or valve unit in such a way that, before the valve unit is switched to a second switching position and the condensate pump is activated, the flush valve is opened for a predetermined period of time while the condensate pump is deactivated, the predetermined period of time ending before the valve unit is switched to the second switching position and the condensate pump is activated.

[0095] The electronic control unit can be configured to open the flush valve when the clothes to be dried reach a predetermined degree of dryness. Alternatively or additionally, the electronic control unit can be configured to determine the filling state of the condensate container based on the successful activation of the condensate pump, and only switch the valve unit to the second switching position when the filling state is greater than or equal to a predetermined minimum filling state value.

[0096] In this document, embodiments of the apparatus may correspond to embodiments of siphon modules, dryers, washer-dryer combos, uses of siphon modules, and / or methods, and vice versa, even if not explicitly mentioned herein. Therefore, explicit repetitions are omitted. Attached Figure Description

[0097] Useful, non-limiting embodiments of the invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Similar or identical elements or features are indicated by similar or identical reference numerals. In the drawings: Figure 1 A schematic plan view of a siphon module according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown; Figure 2 A schematic perspective view of a siphon module according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown; and Figure 3A schematic perspective view of a partial household appliance is shown, in which a siphon module according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may be implemented. Detailed Implementation

[0098] Figure 1 and Figure 2 An exemplary embodiment of this disclosure is illustrated. The accompanying drawings also show features that are not essential to this disclosure or to the corresponding embodiments. For example, bypass 100, housing 20, cover 30, fixing member 110 and / or retaining member 110 are not essential to this disclosure, not essential to any embodiment described herein, and not essential to any particular embodiment shown in the drawings.

[0099] Figure 1 and Figure 2 An exemplary siphon module 10 is shown as an example of how this disclosure can be implemented for use in devices such as household appliances. The siphon module 10 may include a housing 20 and a cover 30. The siphon module 10 may include a first siphon-type element 40 (in... Figure 2 (not visible in the middle) and the second siphon type element 50 (in the middle) Figure 2 (Not visible in the middle). The first siphon element 40 can be fluidly connected to the first inlet 60 (in the middle). Figure 1 (Not visible in the middle) and a first outlet 70, the first siphon element 40 can be integrated into the first loop through the first inlet 60 and the first outlet 70. The second siphon element 50 can be fluidly connected to the second inlet 80 and the second outlet 90, and the second siphon element 50 can be integrated into the second loop through the second inlet 80 and the second outlet 90.

[0100] In an exemplary embodiment, the first siphon element 40 can be implemented as a channel. In an exemplary embodiment, the second siphon element 50 can be implemented as a channel.

[0101] The siphon module 10 may include a bypass 100 (in Figure 2 (not visible in the middle), so that the first siphon element 40 can be fluidly connected to the second siphon element 50.

[0102] The siphon module 10 may include at least one fixing member 110 and / or at least one retaining member 110, and the siphon module 10 may be fixed to or attached to a component within the household appliance by the at least one fixing member 110 and / or at least one retaining member 110. Figure 1 and Figure 2 In the siphon module 10 within the cover 30, at least one fixing member 110 and / or at least one retaining member 110 are implemented.

[0103] The siphon module 10 can be used within a household appliance. Thereby, condensate can be stored in the base module. Fluid can be transferred from the base module to a fluid container via a pump. Fluid can be drawn in by the pump and can be transferred to the fluid container via one or more hoses and / or one or more elements, as well as a first siphon-type element that is part of the siphon module 10 of this disclosure. In the event that the fluid container may be full, excess fluid may overflow from the fluid container and may flow into one or more hoses and / or one or more elements, as well as a second siphon-type element, thereby entering the base module. Fluid can be pumped from areas of the household appliance where negative pressure may occur (e.g., heat exchanger sections). Atmospheric pressure can be present in the fluid container.

[0104] To separate areas with different pressures and improve the drying process, the siphon module of this disclosure is implemented. The siphon module according to this disclosure integrates at least two siphon-type elements into a single component. The siphon module may include or consist of two parts, namely a housing 20 and a cover 30, which may be made of plastic material and / or may be welded together to achieve a fluid seal. One or more hoses may be connected to the siphon module to deliver fluid over a greater distance.

[0105] When the pump (not shown) is turned on, the first siphon element 40 can be filled with fluid, thus isolating the first circuit from atmospheric pressure. The first siphon element 40 may refer to a pump-type siphon element. The first circuit may refer to a pump circuit. When the pump (not shown) is turned on, due to the bypass 100 between the first siphon element 40 and the second siphon element 50, the second siphon element 50 can also be filled with fluid, thus isolating the second circuit from atmospheric pressure. The second siphon element 50 may refer to an overflow siphon element. The second circuit may refer to an overflow circuit.

[0106] Figure 3 A schematic perspective view of a partial household appliance is shown, in which a siphon module according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is implemented. For example, the rollers of the appliance are omitted in the figure for clarity. Figure 3 Two examples of a guidance system, manipulation system, and / or management system in which an exemplary siphon module is integrated are shown. Figure 3 The diagram shows a first circuit, which can be a pump circuit, and a second circuit, which can be an overflow circuit.

[0107] In the first loop, pump 140 can pump fluid from base module 160 to fluid container 120 via siphon module 10. A heat exchanger area 170 (details not shown) may be included in the system, but is not required. Thus, at least one hose 130 can connect the respective components to each other. Furthermore, in the second loop, fluid can be transferred from fluid container 120 to base module 160 via siphon module 10. A heat exchanger area 170 (details not shown) may be included in the system, but is not required. Each system may also include at least one valve 150 (details not shown) to fluidly connect the respective components to each other. Further details have been described above.

[0108] List of reference numerals

Claims

1. A siphon module (10) for household appliances, the siphon module comprising: A first siphon-type element (40) is configured to be integrated into a first circuit. The first inlet (60) is configured to be fluidly connected to the first siphon element (40). The first outlet (70) is configured to be fluidly connected to the first siphon element (40). The second siphon element (50) is configured to be integrated into the second circuit. The second inlet (80) is configured to be fluidly connected to the second siphon element (50), and The second outlet (90) is configured to be fluidly connected to the second siphon element (50).

2. The siphon module (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, After the siphon module (10) is manufactured, the first siphon element (40) and the second siphon element (50) are contained in a single part.

3. The siphon module (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, After the siphon module (10) is manufactured, the siphon module (10) cannot be disassembled, especially not in a non-destructive manner.

4. The siphon module (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The siphon module (10) also includes a bypass (100) configured to fluidly connect the first siphon element (40) and the second siphon element (50).

5. The siphon module (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, A first siphon element (40) and a second siphon element (50) are formed in two molded parts, particularly two injection molded parts, which are connected together such that the two molded parts cannot be disassembled, particularly not in a non-destructive manner, wherein the connection can be achieved, for example, by welding.

6. The siphon module (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The siphon module (10) also includes: The shell (20), and The cover (30) is configured to be fluid-tightly connected to the housing (20). The housing (20) and / or cover (30) include a first siphon element (40) and / or a second siphon element (50).

7. The siphon module (10) according to claim 6, wherein, The first siphon element (40) and the second siphon element (50) are both formed by a housing (20) or a cover (30), or at least one of the first siphon element (40) and the second siphon element (50) is formed by the housing (20) and the cover (30).

8. The siphon module (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The siphon module (10) is substantially plate-shaped, and wherein a first siphon element (40) and a second siphon element (50) are arranged along the main extension of the plate.

9. The siphon module (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein, The first siphon element (40) and the second siphon element (50) are formed in an integral part that cannot be disassembled, especially not in a non-destructive manner.

10. A household appliance, particularly a dryer or washer-dryer combo, comprising: A roller, used to receive clothes to be dried. A process air system for passing process air through the rollers. A condenser, used to condense moisture in the process air from the drum. The base module is configured to collect fluid. A fluid container for receiving fluid transferred from the base module. An overflow container, in which the fluid container is placed. A pump, associated with the base module, is used to pump fluid contained in the base module to a condensate container. The siphon module (10) according to any one of the preceding claims.

11. Use of a siphon module (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 9 in a household appliance, wherein, After the siphon module (10) is manufactured, the siphon module (10) consists of only one part that cannot be disassembled in a non-destructive manner, and its use includes the following steps: The base module (160) is fluid-tightly connected to the siphon module (10). The fluid container (120) is fluid-tightly connected to the siphon module (10), and Perform at least one of the following steps: Fluid is pumped from the base module (160) to the first siphon element (40) of the siphon module (10) via the pump (140), and can further reach the fluid container (120) via the siphon module (10), and / or By connecting the second siphon element (50) of the siphon module (10) to the fluid container (120) and the base module (160), the siphon module (10) is used to regulate the overflow fluid from the fluid container (120), and / or Using a bypass (100) included in the siphon module (10), the bypass (100) is configured to fluidly connect the first siphon element (40) and the second siphon element (50). After the siphon module (10) is manufactured, the first siphon element (40) and the second siphon element (50) are contained in a single part.

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