Multi-stage dehumidifier

Abstract

The embodiment of the utility model provides a multi-stage dehumidifier, and relates to the technical field of household appliances. The multi-stage dehumidifier comprises a shell, an evaporation assembly, a condenser, a compressor, a first water collection tank and a second water collection tank, and the compressor, the condenser and the evaporation assembly are sequentially communicated through a plurality of pipelines to form a refrigerant circulating flow channel. The shell is provided with a containing space, an air inlet and an air outlet which are communicated with one another, and the evaporation assembly and the condenser are sequentially arranged on an airflow path from the air inlet to the air outlet. The first water collecting tank is connected to the evaporation assembly through a first water collecting pipeline so as to collect condensate water, the multiple pipelines comprise an exhaust pipeline, the exhaust pipeline is connected between the compressor and the condenser, and the exhaust pipeline penetrates through the first water collecting tank and is at least partially contained in the first water collecting tank. According to the multi-stage dehumidifier, the temperature of the exhaust pipeline can be reduced by accommodating the exhaust pipeline in the first water collection tank, so that the energy consumption of the multi-stage dehumidifier during operation is reduced, the energy efficiency of the multi-stage dehumidifier is improved, and the dehumidification effect is enhanced.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present application relates to the technical field of household appliances, and in particular to a multi-stage dehumidifier. Background Art

[0002] A dehumidifier, also known as a dehumidifier or dehumidifier, primarily consists of a compressor, condenser, evaporator, throttling device, water tray, and fan. Its operating principle is: a fan draws moist air into the unit, where heat exchange condenses the water vapor into water droplets that flow into the water tray. The treated, dry air is then exhausted, continuing this cycle to reduce indoor humidity. Existing dehumidifiers rely on refrigerant circulation and electrical power to complete the dehumidification process, but this results in high energy consumption and low operating efficiency, resulting in less than ideal dehumidification results. Utility Model Content

[0003] In view of this, an embodiment of the present application provides a multi-stage dehumidifier to solve the above technical problems.

[0004] An embodiment of the present application provides a multi-stage dehumidifier. The multi-stage dehumidifier includes a shell and an evaporation component, a condenser and a compressor arranged in the shell. The compressor, condenser and evaporation component are connected in sequence through multiple pipes to form a channel for the circulation of refrigerant. The shell has a storage space, an air inlet and an air outlet. The air inlet and the air outlet are respectively connected to the storage space. The evaporation component and the condenser are arranged in sequence on the air flow path from the air inlet to the air outlet. The multi-stage dehumidifier also includes a first water collecting tank and a second water collecting tank that are connected to each other. The first water collecting tank is connected to the evaporation component through a first water collecting pipe to collect condensed water. The multiple pipes include an exhaust pipe, the exhaust pipe is connected between the compressor and the condenser, and the exhaust pipe passes through the first water collecting tank and is at least partially accommodated inside the first water collecting tank.

[0005] In some embodiments, the portion of the exhaust pipe located in the first water collecting tank is bent.

[0006] In some embodiments, the multi-stage dehumidifier further includes a spray mechanism disposed within the first water collection tank. The spray mechanism includes a water pump assembly and a water atomizing head connected to the water pump assembly. The exhaust duct includes a first duct portion and a second duct portion connected to each other. In the direction of gravity, the first duct portion is located above the second duct portion, and a water spray port of the water atomizing head is oriented toward the first duct portion and / or the second duct portion.

[0007] In some embodiments, the first water collecting tank has a drainage channel connected to the second water collecting tank. In the direction of gravity, the position height of the first pipe portion is higher than the position height of the drainage channel, so that when liquid is stored in the first water collecting tank, the first pipe portion is higher than the liquid level.

[0008] In some embodiments, a mounting groove is provided on the bottom wall of the first water collecting tank, the mounting groove is recessed relative to the bottom wall, and the water pump device is disposed in the mounting groove.

[0009] In some embodiments, a connecting pipe is provided between the second water collecting tank and the first water collecting tank, the connecting pipe having a first end and a second end that are separated from each other, the first end being connected to the first water collecting tank and the second end being connected to the second water collecting tank. In the direction of gravity, the first end is positioned at a higher height than the second end.

[0010] In some embodiments, the multi-stage dehumidifier includes a drainage device, which is arranged in the first water collecting tank, and the distance between the drainage device and the bottom wall of the first water collecting tank gradually decreases along the direction of the connecting pipe.

[0011] In some embodiments, the evaporation assembly includes a first evaporator and a second evaporator spaced apart from each other, the multi-stage dehumidifier includes a throttling capillary tube, and the first evaporator and the second evaporator are connected to the condenser through the throttling capillary tube.

[0012] In some embodiments, the multi-stage dehumidifier further includes a solenoid valve, which is installed on the throttling capillary tube and is used to regulate the flow rate of refrigerant entering the first evaporator and the second evaporator.

[0013] In some embodiments, the multi-stage dehumidifier further includes a first water absorbing medium having a plurality of microporous structures, the first water absorbing medium being disposed between the second evaporator and the condenser, and a second water collecting pipe being disposed between the first water absorbing medium and the first water collecting tank.

[0014] In some embodiments, the multi-stage dehumidifier further includes a second water-absorbing medium having a plurality of microporous structures. The second water-absorbing medium is disposed between the first evaporator and the second evaporator. The first evaporator, the second water-absorbing medium, the second evaporator, and the first water-absorbing medium are sequentially arranged in a spaced relationship along the airflow path from the air inlet to the air outlet. A third water collection pipe is also disposed between the second water-absorbing medium and the first water collection tank.

[0015] In some embodiments, the plurality of pipes further include a return pipe, and the return pipe is disposed between the evaporation assembly and the compressor.

[0016] Compared to the prior art, the present invention provides a multi-stage dehumidifier comprising a first and second interconnected water header tanks. The first header tank is used to collect condensed water. An exhaust duct connected between the compressor and the condenser passes through the first header tank and is at least partially contained within the first header tank. By arranging the exhaust duct at least partially within the first header tank, the condensed water absorbs some of the heat generated by the refrigerant flowing through the exhaust duct, thereby reducing the operating load of the multi-stage dehumidifier, lowering power and refrigerant consumption, and improving energy efficiency. Furthermore, the condensed water within the first header tank cools the exhaust duct, cooling the refrigerant before it enters the evaporation assembly. This maintains a lower temperature in the multi-stage dehumidifier, improving the multi-stage dehumidifier's ability to absorb water vapor from the air and enhancing the dehumidification effect. Furthermore, the exhaust duct's placement within the first header tank reduces noise and vibration generated by the refrigerant flow. Furthermore, the first header tank isolates the exhaust duct from the external environment, reducing potential user safety risks from leaks or malfunctions in the exhaust duct. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0017] In order to more clearly illustrate the technical solution of the present application, the following is a brief introduction to the drawings required for use in the implementation. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some implementation methods of the present application. For ordinary technicians in this field, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without any creative work.

[0018] Figure 1 It is a structural schematic diagram of the multi-stage dehumidifier provided in an embodiment of the present application.

[0019] Figure 2 This is another structural schematic diagram of the multi-stage dehumidifier provided in an embodiment of the present application.

[0020] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 The diagram shows an enlarged schematic diagram of part of the structure of the multi-stage dehumidifier.

[0021] Figure 4 yes Figure 3 Another enlarged schematic diagram of part of the structure of the multi-stage dehumidifier is shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0022] The following will be combined with the drawings in the embodiments of this application to clearly and completely describe the technical solutions in the embodiments of this application. Obviously, the embodiments described are only part of the embodiments of this application, not all of the embodiments. Based on the embodiments in this application, all other embodiments obtained by ordinary technicians in this field without making creative efforts are within the scope of protection of this application.

[0023] It should be noted that when an element / component is referred to as being "fixed to" another element / component, it may be directly on the other element / component or there may be an intervening element / component. When an element / component is considered to be "connected" to another element / component, it may be directly connected to the other element / component or there may be an intervening element / component. At the same time, when an element / component is considered to be "connected" to another element / component, it may be integrally molded or assembled with the other element / component. When an element / component is considered to be "disposed on" another element / component, it may be directly disposed on the other element / component or there may be an intervening element / component.

[0024] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by those skilled in the art to which this application pertains. The terms used herein in the specification of this application are for the purpose of describing specific embodiments only and are not intended to limit this application. The term "and / or" as used herein includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

[0025] See also Figure 1 In one embodiment of the present application, a multi-stage dehumidifier 100 is provided. The multi-stage dehumidifier 100 includes a housing 10, an evaporation assembly 20, a condenser 30, a compressor 40, a first water collection tank 50, and a second water collection tank 60. The multi-stage dehumidifier 100 is an appliance for regulating humidity, and is commonly used to regulate indoor humidity to maintain a suitable living environment and prevent a series of problems caused by excessive humidity, such as mold growth, furniture corrosion, and allergic reactions.

[0026] Specifically, in the embodiment of the present application, the compressor 40, condenser 30, and evaporation assembly 20 are sequentially connected via a plurality of pipes 70 to form a channel for refrigerant circulation. The housing 10 has a storage space 101, an air inlet 102, and an air outlet 103. The air inlet 102 and the air outlet 103 are respectively connected to the storage space 101. The evaporation assembly 20 and the condenser 30 are sequentially arranged along the airflow path from the air inlet 102 to the air outlet 103. The multi-stage dehumidifier 100 also includes a first water header tank 50 and a second water header tank 60 that are interconnected. The first water header tank 50 is connected to the evaporation assembly 20 via a first water header pipe 72 to collect condensed water. The plurality of pipes 70 include an exhaust pipe 71, which is connected between the compressor 40 and the condenser 30. The exhaust pipe 71 passes through the first water header tank 50 and is at least partially contained within the first water header tank 50. Specifically, the exhaust pipe 71 may be partially or entirely contained within the first water header tank 50.

[0027] When the multi-stage dehumidifier 100 is operating, the refrigerant flows from the compressor 40 through the pipe 70, sequentially to the condenser 30, the evaporation assembly 20, and finally back to the compressor 40, completing the refrigerant cycle. Humid air from the outside enters the interior of the housing 10 through the air inlet 102. The inhaled air is guided through the evaporation assembly 20. As the refrigerant evaporates in the evaporation assembly 20, the temperature of the evaporation assembly 20 decreases, causing water vapor in the air to condense into water droplets at the evaporation assembly 20. The condensed water droplets flow down the surface of the evaporation assembly 20 and converge in the first water collection pipe 72, ultimately being collected in the first water collection tank 50. The air dehumidified by the evaporation assembly 20 is heated in the condenser 30, and the increase in temperature causes the relative humidity of the air to decrease. This means that the heated air can accommodate more water vapor, which can then condense and precipitate water in the condenser 30, further reducing the humidity in the air and improving the comfort level of the dry air.

[0028] The multi-stage dehumidifier 100 of this embodiment improves its dehumidification performance by disposing at least partially the exhaust duct 71 within the first header tank 50. Specifically, some of the heat generated by the refrigerant flowing through the exhaust duct 71 is absorbed by the condensed water within the first header tank 50, thereby reducing the operating load of the multi-stage dehumidifier 100, lowering power and refrigerant consumption, and improving energy efficiency. Furthermore, the condensed water within the first header tank 50 cools the exhaust duct 71, cooling the refrigerant before it enters the evaporation assembly 20. This maintains a lower temperature within the multi-stage dehumidifier 100, improving its ability to absorb water vapor from the air and enhancing the dehumidification performance. Furthermore, the partial placement of the exhaust duct 71 within the first header tank 50 reduces the noise and vibration generated by the refrigerant flowing through the exhaust duct 71. Furthermore, the first header tank 50 isolates the exhaust duct 71 from the external environment, mitigating potential user safety risks from leaks or malfunctions in the exhaust duct 71.

[0029] Next, each component of the multi-stage dehumidifier 100 and the specific structure of each component will be introduced one by one.

[0030] See also Figure 1In this embodiment, the shell 10 is used to install components and protect the components to prevent external factors such as impact, dust, etc. from damaging the installed components, thereby improving the reliability and durability of the multi-stage dehumidifier 100. Specifically, the shell 10 has a receiving space 101, and the receiving space 101 is used to install and place components. The components can be the evaporation component 20, condenser 30, compressor 40, first water collecting tank 50, second water collecting tank 60 or other components mentioned above. At the same time, the shell 10 is also used to support the place where the humidifier is used, such as the ground, desktop or other support platform. The material of the shell 10 can include high-strength, impact-resistant plastic material and metal material, which can protect internal components from external damage.

[0031] As an example, the outer contour of the housing 10 is roughly cubical. The material of the housing 10 may include ABS plastic, PC plastic, or other hard plastic. This not only reduces the weight of the housing 10, achieving lightweighting, but also provides a certain degree of stability for the housing 10, thereby effectively protecting the components within the housing 10. Furthermore, plastic materials offer the advantages of low cost, good plasticity, ease of processing, and resistance to breakage, thereby reducing the production cost of the multi-stage dehumidifier 100. It should be noted that the housing 10 may also be made of ceramic, glass, or other materials, and this embodiment does not limit this.

[0032] In this embodiment, the air inlet 102 and the air outlet 103 are disposed on the housing 10. The air inlet 102, the air outlet 103, and the storage space 101 are connected. The air inlet 102 and the air outlet 103 may not be disposed on the same plane to ensure that air can adequately pass through the dehumidification components within the multi-stage dehumidifier 100. Specifically, the housing 10 includes a top wall and a surrounding peripheral wall. The top wall is connected to one end of the peripheral wall and together with the peripheral wall defines the storage space 101. The air outlet 103 is disposed on the top wall, and the air inlet 102 is disposed on the peripheral wall. When the multi-stage dehumidifier 100 is operating normally, outside air enters the storage space 101 through the air inlet 102 along the second direction. After being dehumidified in the evaporation component 20 and the condenser 30, it flows from the air outlet 103 along the first direction to the outside. The above-mentioned "first direction" can be understood as the direction of gravity when the multi-stage dehumidifier 100 is placed in normal use, that is, the axial direction of the multi-stage dehumidifier 100. The "second direction" can be understood as the horizontal direction when the multi-stage dehumidifier 100 is normally placed, and the second direction intersects the first direction. By providing the above-mentioned air inlet 102 and air outlet 103, it is possible to ensure that air can fully pass through the evaporation assembly 20 and condenser 30 inside the multi-stage dehumidifier 100, thereby improving the dehumidification effect.

[0033] In this embodiment, the multi-stage dehumidifier 100 also includes a fan assembly 104, which is arranged in the storage space 101 and is used to drive the dehumidified air to flow from the air outlet 103 to the outside world, thereby dehumidifying the environment. Specifically, the fan assembly 104 is arranged between the condenser 30 and the air outlet 103, and the air outlet side of the fan assembly 104 is arranged toward the air outlet 103. After the outside air enters the storage space 101 through the air inlet 102 and contacts the evaporation component 20 and the condenser 30 in turn, the fan assembly 104 drives the dry air to flow from the air outlet side to the air outlet 103, and then flows to the outside world through the air outlet 103. The fan assembly 104 may include a drive motor (not shown in the figure) and a fan (not shown in the figure). The fan is connected to the drive motor, and the rotation speed of the fan is controlled by controlling the output power of the drive motor, thereby controlling the air flow efficiency.

[0034] In this embodiment, a refrigerant is used to absorb and release energy within the system, thereby reducing the humidity of the indoor air. The refrigerant can be an alkane compound, and this embodiment does not impose any specific restrictions on the type of refrigerant. The refrigerant flows through multiple pipes 70 through the compressor 40, the condenser 30, and the evaporator assembly 20 to complete the refrigeration cycle. Specifically, the refrigerant is compressed in the compressor 40, changing from a low-temperature, low-pressure state to a high-temperature, high-pressure state. The high-temperature, high-pressure refrigerant gas enters the condenser 30 through pipe 70, where it releases heat to the surrounding environment, condensing to form a high-pressure liquid. During this process, the refrigerant transfers the absorbed heat to the environment, raising the surface temperature of the condenser 30. The condensed liquid refrigerant enters the evaporator assembly 20, where it evaporates, absorbing heat and transforming into a gaseous refrigerant, lowering the temperature around the evaporator assembly 20. The gaseous refrigerant then enters the compressor 40 via the return pipe 70, which is located between the evaporator assembly 20 and the compressor 40, completing the refrigerant cycle. The humid air from the outside condenses and precipitates water in the evaporation component 20 to become dry air. The precipitated water enters the first water collecting tank 50 along the first water collecting pipe 72 and is collected. The dried air is heated in the condenser 30 to further precipitate water, and then is blown to the outside through the air outlet 103 under the drive of the fan component 104.

[0035] In this embodiment, the evaporation assembly 20 is disposed within the housing 10 and located at the air inlet 102. The evaporation assembly 20 utilizes the evaporation of refrigerant to absorb heat, creating a cooling environment. This allows moisture in the humid air to be extracted, achieving dehumidification. The evaporation assembly 20 may include two spaced-apart evaporators, a first evaporator 21 and a second evaporator 22. Ambient air enters the housing 10 through the air inlet 102 and sequentially passes through the first evaporator 21 and the second evaporator 22, achieving secondary evaporation and further enhancing the dehumidification effect. Specifically, ambient air enters the first evaporator 21 through the air inlet 102 and condenses there. Most of the water vapor in the air condenses to form condensed water, which then flows through the first water collection pipe 72 into the first water collection tank 50. The air dehumidified by the first evaporator 21 then enters the second evaporator 22 for further condensation. The water vapor in the air further condenses to form condensed water, which then flows through the pipe 70 into the first water collection tank 50. Therefore, the first and second evaporators 21 and 22 allow the refrigerant to evaporate over a larger area, absorbing more heat and moisture, thereby improving dehumidification efficiency. It should be noted that, in other embodiments, the evaporation assembly 20 may include three or more evaporators, and different numbers of evaporators may be provided according to actual needs, thereby improving the dehumidification efficiency.

[0036] See also Figure 1 In some embodiments, to further improve the dehumidification effect, a throttling device can be provided to adjust the amount of refrigerant entering the first evaporator 21 and the second evaporator 22, thereby more effectively reducing the humidity of the air. Specifically, the throttling device includes a throttling capillary tube 73, which is connected between the first evaporator 21, the second evaporator 22, and the condenser 30. The throttling capillary tube 73 controls the amount of refrigerant entering the first evaporator 21 and the second evaporator 22 by varying the tube diameter or tube length. As an example, there are two throttling capillary tubes 73, namely a first throttling capillary tube 731 and a second throttling capillary tube 732. The first throttling capillary tube 731 is connected between the first evaporator 21 and the condenser 30, and the second throttling capillary tube 732 is connected between the second evaporator 22 and the condenser 30. The diameter of the second throttling capillary 732 can be larger than the diameter of the first throttling capillary 731, so that the amount of refrigerant entering the second evaporator 22 is greater than the amount of refrigerant entering the first evaporator 21 in the same time, so that the evaporation temperature of the second evaporator 22 is lower. Relying on the lower evaporation temperature, moisture in the air can be further precipitated, thereby improving the dehumidification effect.

[0037] In other embodiments, the number of throttling capillary tubes 73 can be one, and the throttling capillary tube 73 can have two connecting tubes 51 and 70, respectively used to connect the first evaporator 21 and the second evaporator 22. Similarly, the diameters and lengths of the two connecting tubes 51 and 70 can be different, thereby controlling the amount of refrigerant entering the first evaporator 21 and the second evaporator 22.

[0038] Furthermore, in some embodiments, the multi-stage dehumidifier 100 may also include a solenoid valve 105 mounted on the throttling capillary tube 73. The solenoid valve 105 is used to precisely control the refrigerant flow rate entering the first evaporator 21 and the second evaporator 22. Specifically, there may be two solenoid valves 105: one solenoid valve 105 is mounted on the first throttling capillary tube 731 and is used to control the refrigerant flow rate entering the first evaporator 21, and the other solenoid valve 105 is mounted on the second throttling capillary tube 732 and is used to control the refrigerant flow rate entering the second evaporator 22. The installation of the solenoid valve 105 on the throttling capillary tube 73 helps prevent the evaporation assembly 20 from overcooling or overheating, thereby preventing a decrease in dehumidification efficiency and system damage.

[0039] See also Figure 2 In this embodiment, in order to further improve the dehumidification effect, the multi-stage dehumidifier 100 also includes a first water-absorbing medium 106. The first water-absorbing medium 106 is arranged between the second evaporator 22 and the condenser 30. After the air dehumidified by the second evaporator 22 passes through the first water-absorbing medium 106 and contacts the condenser 30, the air further precipitates moisture in the first water-absorbing medium 106. The first water-absorbing medium 106 is made of a hydrophilic material and can specifically be a water-absorbing sponge. The first water-absorbing medium 106 is provided with a plurality of microporous structures 1061, which are used to increase the contact area with the air, thereby improving the water-absorbing medium's adsorption capacity for water molecules. In order to collect the moisture precipitated by the air in the first water-absorbing medium 106, the multi-stage dehumidifier 100 also includes a second water collection pipe 74, which is connected between the first water-absorbing medium 106 and the first water collection tank 50.

[0040] In some embodiments, the multi-stage dehumidifier 100 may further include a second water-absorbing medium 107, which is disposed between the first evaporator 21 and the second evaporator 22. Specifically, the first evaporator 21, the second water-absorbing medium 107, the second evaporator 22, and the first water-absorbing medium 106 are sequentially arranged in a spaced relationship along the airflow path from the air inlet 102 to the air outlet 103. The second water-absorbing medium 107 may also be a water-absorbing sponge, having a plurality of microporous structures 1061, which increase its contact area with the air, thereby improving the water-absorbing medium's ability to adsorb water molecules. During the dehumidification process of the multi-stage dehumidifier 100, ambient air sequentially passes through the first evaporator 21, the second water-absorbing medium 107, the first evaporator 21, and the first water-absorbing medium 106, and is heated in the condenser 30 before being discharged to the outside world. The water vapor or moisture absorbed by the second water-absorbing medium 107 can be discharged into the first water collection tank 50 via the third water collection pipe 75. The third water collecting pipe 75 , the second water collecting pipe 74 and the first water collecting pipe 72 may be connected or disconnected, which is not limited in this embodiment.

[0041] It should be noted that when the evaporation assembly 20 includes multiple evaporators, a water-absorbing medium can be positioned between each adjacent evaporator to further enhance the dehumidification effect. It is understood that the water-absorbing medium can also be positioned at other locations along the airflow, such as between the air inlet 102 and the evaporator. This embodiment does not limit the specific number of evaporators or the specific number and position of the water-absorbing medium in adjacent evaporators. By providing multiple water-absorbing media and multiple evaporators, moisture can be continuously absorbed and condensed as air flows through the multi-stage dehumidifier 100, thereby improving overall dehumidification efficiency.

[0042] In this embodiment, the condenser 30 is used to condense the gaseous refrigerant flowing through the compressor 40 into liquid refrigerant and transfer it to the evaporation component 20 through throttling capillaries. During the condensation process, the refrigerant releases heat, causing the temperature around the condenser 30 to increase. The air dehumidified by the evaporation component 20 is heated in the condenser 30, causing the saturated vapor pressure to increase, thereby reducing the relative humidity of the air. In other words, the heated air can accommodate more water vapor, so that more water vapor can condense and precipitate moisture in the condenser 30, further reducing the humidity in the air and improving the comfort of the dry air. The number of condensers 30 can be one or more, and this embodiment does not impose specific restrictions on this. It is understood that the more condensers 30 there are, the better the dehumidification effect.

[0043] Compressor 40 is used to compress low-temperature liquid refrigerant into high-temperature gaseous refrigerant and transport the refrigerant to condenser 30 via exhaust duct 71 to drive the refrigeration cycle. The number of compressors 40 can be one or more, and this embodiment does not impose specific limitations on this. Because the liquid refrigerant is compressed in compressor 40 to form a high-temperature, high-pressure gaseous refrigerant, the high-temperature, high-pressure gaseous refrigerant requires additional refrigerant consumption or a longer condensation time in condenser 30 to reach the dehumidification temperature of the air. To reduce the temperature of the gaseous refrigerant and reduce energy consumption during operation of the multi-stage dehumidifier 100, exhaust duct 71 is at least partially housed within the first water header tank 50.

[0044] Specifically, the multi-stage dehumidifier 100 includes a first water header tank 50 and a second water header tank 60. A connecting pipe 51 is disposed between the first and second water header tanks 50, 60. The connecting pipe 51 defines a drainage channel 501 connecting the first and second water header tanks 50, 60. The first water header tank 50 collects condensed water via a first, second, and third water header pipes 72, 74, and 75, and transfers excess condensed water to the second water header tank 60 via the connecting pipe 51. An exhaust pipe 71 passes through the first water header tank 50, connecting between the compressor 40 and the condenser 30. To reduce the temperature of the exhaust pipe 71, at least a portion of the exhaust pipe 71 is arranged in a curved shape within the first water header tank 50.

[0045] See also Figure 3 As a specific example, the exhaust pipe 71 includes a first pipe portion 711 and a second pipe portion 712 connected to each other. In the direction of gravity, the first pipe portion 711 is located above the second pipe portion 712, that is, the position height of the first pipe portion 711 is higher than the position height of the drainage channel 501, so that when liquid is stored in the first water collecting tank 50, the first pipe portion 711 is above the liquid level. The position height can be based on the geometric center height of the corresponding pipe or channel, or it can be based on the lowest point of the corresponding pipe or channel. The horizontal plane where the lowest point of the first pipe portion 711 or the horizontal plane where the geometric center is located is higher than the horizontal plane where the lowest point of the drainage channel 501 or the horizontal plane where the geometric center is located. Specifically, the installation height of the connecting pipe 51 defines the first horizontal plane, which is the highest horizontal plane of the first water collecting tank 50 when excess condensate flows to the second water collecting tank 60. The second pipe portion 712 can be arranged at the bottom of the first water collecting tank 50 and the installation height of the second pipe portion 712 is lower than the installation height of the connecting pipe 51, that is, the second pipe portion 712 is located below the first horizontal plane, so that when the multi-stage dehumidifier 100 is working, the second pipe portion 712 is at least partially immersed in condensed water at all times.

[0046] By providing an exhaust duct 71 at least partially housed within the first header tank 50, condensed water absorbs some of the heat generated by the refrigerant flowing through the exhaust duct 71, thereby reducing the operating load of the multi-stage dehumidifier 100, lowering power and refrigerant consumption, and improving energy efficiency. Furthermore, the condensed water within the first header tank 50 cools the exhaust duct 71, cooling the refrigerant before it enters the evaporation assembly 20. This maintains a lower temperature within the multi-stage dehumidifier 100, improving its ability to absorb water vapor from the air and enhancing the dehumidification effect. Furthermore, the placement of the exhaust duct 71 within the first header tank 50 reduces noise and vibration generated by the refrigerant flow. Furthermore, the first header tank 50 isolates the exhaust duct 71 from the external environment, mitigating potential user safety risks from leaks or failures in the exhaust duct 71.

[0047] To further enhance the cooling effect of condensed water on the exhaust duct 71, the multi-stage dehumidifier 100 may further include a spray mechanism 80, which is configured to draw condensed water and spray it toward the exhaust duct portion 711. Specifically, the spray mechanism 80 includes a water pump device 81 and a water atomizing head 82 connected to the water pump device 81. The water pump device 81 is configured to draw condensed water from the bottom of the first water collecting tank 50. The water atomizing head 82 extends toward a side facing away from the bottom wall. The water spray port of the water atomizing head 82 is positioned toward the exhaust duct 71, specifically toward either the first duct portion 711 or the second duct portion 712. This embodiment does not impose any specific limitations on this.

[0048] In order to ensure the suction effect of the water pump device 81, the bottom wall of the first water collecting tank 50 can also be provided with an installation groove 52, which is recessed relative to the bottom wall, that is, the installation groove 52 is located at the lowest horizontal plane of the condensed water, and the water pump device 81 is arranged in the installation groove 52.

[0049] In some embodiments, to better guide the condensed water from the first water header tank 50 to the second water header tank 60, the connecting tube 51 may have a first end 511 and a second end 512 that are separated from each other. The first end 511 is connected to the first water header tank 50, and the second end 512 is connected to the second water header tank 60. In the direction of gravity, the first end 511 is located at a higher height than the second end 512, so that the condensed water flows from the first water header tank 50 to the second water header tank 60 by gravity.

[0050] See also Figure 3 and Figure 4In this embodiment, the multi-stage dehumidifier 100 may further include a drain plate 90 disposed within the first water collection tank 50. The drain plate 90 may be a condensation plate, specifically a metal condensation plate. Condensate or water vapor collected by the first, second, and third water collection pipes 72, 74, and 75 condenses on the condensation plate and flows along the condensation plate into the first water collection tank 50. The drain plate 90 is tilted at the top of the first water collection tank 50. Specifically, the distance between the drain plate 90 and the bottom wall of the first water collection tank 50 gradually decreases along the direction of the connecting pipe 51, thereby improving the efficiency of condensate collection through gravity flow. Specifically, the drain plate 90 has a first extending end 91 and a second extending end 92. The first extending end 91 extends toward the second extending end 92, and the distance between the first extending end 91 and the bottom wall of the first water collection tank 50 is greater than the distance between the second extending end 92 and the bottom wall of the first water collection tank 50.

[0051] In summary, the present embodiment provides a multi-stage dehumidifier 100, which includes a first water header tank 50 and a second water header tank 60, which are interconnected. The first water header tank 50 is used to collect condensed water. An exhaust pipe 71, which is connected between the compressor 40 and the condenser 30, passes through the first water header tank 50 and is at least partially contained within the first water header tank 50. By providing the exhaust pipe 71, which is at least partially contained within the first water header tank 50, on the one hand, some of the heat generated by the refrigerant flowing through the exhaust pipe 71 can be absorbed by the condensed water, thereby reducing the operating load of the multi-stage dehumidifier 100, lowering power and refrigerant consumption, and improving energy efficiency. On the other hand, the condensed water in the first water header tank 50 can cool the exhaust pipe 71, cooling the refrigerant before it enters the evaporation assembly 20. This maintains a relatively low temperature in the multi-stage dehumidifier 100, helping to improve the multi-stage dehumidifier 100's ability to absorb water vapor from the air, thereby enhancing the dehumidification effect. Furthermore, the exhaust duct 71 is disposed within the first header tank 50, which reduces noise and vibration caused by the flow of refrigerant in the exhaust duct 71. Furthermore, the first header tank 50 isolates the exhaust duct 71 from the external environment, reducing potential risks to user safety due to leakage or failure of the exhaust duct 71.

[0052] In the description of this specification, the description with reference to the terms "one embodiment", "some embodiments", "example", "specific example", or "some examples" means that the specific features, structures, materials or characteristics described in conjunction with the embodiment or example are included in at least one embodiment or example of the present application. In this specification, the schematic representations of the above terms do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment or example. Moreover, the specific features, structures, materials or characteristics described can be combined in any one or more embodiments or examples in a suitable manner. In addition, those skilled in the art can combine and combine different embodiments or examples described in this specification and features of different embodiments or examples without contradiction.

[0053] Furthermore, the terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of the technical features being referred to. Thus, a feature defined as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include at least one of such features. Throughout the description of this application, "plurality" means at least two, for example, two, three, etc., unless otherwise specifically defined.

[0054] Finally, it should be noted that the above embodiments are only used to illustrate the technical solutions of the present application, rather than to limit them. Although the present application has been described in detail with reference to the aforementioned embodiments, those skilled in the art should understand that they can still modify the technical solutions described in the aforementioned embodiments, or make equivalent replacements for some of the technical features therein. However, these modifications or replacements do not cause the essence of the corresponding technical solutions to deviate from the spirit and scope of the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present application.

Claims

1. A multi-stage dehumidifier, characterized in that: The multi-stage dehumidifier includes a housing, an evaporation component, a condenser, and a compressor arranged in the housing, wherein the compressor, the condenser, and the evaporation component are sequentially connected through a plurality of pipes to form a channel for circulating refrigerant; The housing has a storage space, an air inlet and an air outlet, the air inlet and the air outlet are respectively connected to the storage space, and the evaporation component and the condenser are sequentially arranged on the air flow path from the air inlet to the air outlet; The multi-stage dehumidifier also includes a first water collecting tank and a second water collecting tank that are connected to each other, and the first water collecting tank is connected to the evaporation component through a first water collecting pipe to collect condensed water; the multiple pipes include an exhaust pipe, and the exhaust pipe is connected between the compressor and the condenser. The exhaust pipe passes through the first water collecting tank and is at least partially accommodated inside the first water collecting tank.

2. The multi-stage dehumidifier according to claim 1, characterized in that: The portion of the exhaust pipe located in the first water collecting tank is arranged in a bent shape.

3. The multi-stage dehumidifier according to claim 1, characterized in that: The multi-stage dehumidifier also includes a spray mechanism, which is arranged in the first water collecting tank. The spray mechanism includes a water pump device and a water spray atomizing head connected to the water pump device. The exhaust pipe includes a first pipe portion and a second pipe portion connected to each other; in the direction of gravity, the first pipe portion is located above the second pipe portion, and the water spray port of the water spray atomizing head is facing the direction of the first pipe portion and / or the second pipe portion.

4. The multi-stage dehumidifier according to claim 3, characterized in that: The first water collecting tank has a drainage channel connected to the second water collecting tank. In the direction of gravity, the position height of the first pipe part is higher than the position height of the drainage channel, so that when liquid is stored in the first water collecting tank, the first pipe part is above the liquid level.

5. The multi-stage dehumidifier according to claim 3, characterized in that: The bottom wall of the first water collecting box is provided with a mounting groove, the mounting groove is recessed relative to the bottom wall, and the water pump device is arranged in the mounting groove.

6. The multi-stage dehumidifier according to claim 1, characterized in that: The plurality of pipes further include a connecting pipe, which is arranged between the second water collecting tank and the first water collecting tank; the connecting pipe has a first end and a second end that are separated from each other, the first end is connected to the first water collecting tank, and the second end is connected to the second water collecting tank; In the direction of gravity, the first end is located at a higher altitude than the second end.

7. The multi-stage dehumidifier according to claim 6, characterized in that: The multi-stage dehumidifier includes a drainage plate, which is arranged in the first water collecting tank and located on the top wall of the first water collecting tank. The height of the drainage plate gradually decreases from the drainage plate to the connecting pipe.

8. The multi-stage dehumidifier according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that: The evaporation assembly includes a first evaporator and a second evaporator spaced apart from each other. The multi-stage dehumidifier includes a throttling capillary tube. The first evaporator and the second evaporator are connected to the condenser through the throttling capillary tube.

9. The multi-stage dehumidifier according to claim 8, characterized in that: The multi-stage dehumidifier further includes a solenoid valve installed on the throttling capillary tube, and the solenoid valve is used to regulate the flow rate of refrigerant entering the first evaporator and the second evaporator.

10. The multi-stage dehumidifier according to claim 8, characterized in that: The multi-stage dehumidifier further includes a first water absorbing medium having a plurality of microporous structures. The first water absorbing medium is arranged between the second evaporator and the condenser. A second water collecting pipe is further provided between the first water absorbing medium and the first water collecting tank.

11. The multi-stage dehumidifier according to claim 10, characterized in that: The multi-stage dehumidifier also includes a second water-absorbing medium, which is provided with multiple microporous structures. The second water-absorbing medium is arranged between the first evaporator and the second evaporator. The first evaporator, the second water-absorbing medium, the second evaporator, and the first water-absorbing medium are arranged in sequence on the air flow path from the air inlet to the air outlet; a third water collection pipe is also provided between the second water-absorbing medium and the first water collecting tank.

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