Heat pump assembly and washing electric appliance

Abstract

The utility model discloses a heat pump assembly and a washing electric appliance, the heat pump assembly comprises an air duct part, a heat pump system and an electric device, the air duct part comprises a heat exchange shell, and the heat exchange shell is configured to communicate with an inner container of the washing electric appliance; the heat pump system comprises a compressor, a condenser, a throttling device and evaporators which are sequentially connected to form a closed refrigerant loop, the evaporators and the condensers are arranged in the heat exchange shell at intervals, the evaporators are used for cooling gas flowing out of the inner container, and the condensers are used for heating the gas flowing into the inner container; the electric device is arranged on the heat exchange shell and electrically connected with the compressor. The electric device comprises a capacitor. The electric device such as the capacitor is arranged on the heat exchange shell and electrically connected with the compressor, so that redundant supports and connecting pieces are reduced, the overall structure compactness of the heat pump assembly is improved, the space utilization rate is optimized, the washing electric device can be more miniaturized, and the integration performance is improved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of household appliance technology, and in particular to a heat pump assembly and a washing appliance. Background Technology

[0002] In related technologies, washing appliances include an inner tank and a heat pump system, and these appliances have a drying mode for drying dishes. Heat pump systems typically include components such as a compressor, heat exchange housing, and capacitors. However, capacitors are often randomly arranged near the heat exchange housing or integrated with the compressor, resulting in low space utilization and a loose structure. Therefore, improving the structural compactness of heat pump systems to enable smaller and more integrated washing appliances has become a key technical problem to be solved. Utility Model Content

[0003] This application provides a heat pump assembly and a washing appliance, which at least solves the technical problem that the structural compactness of the heat pump assembly needs to be further optimized.

[0004] This application provides a heat pump assembly for a washing appliance, comprising:

[0005] A duct component, the duct component including a heat exchange housing configured to communicate with the inner tank of the washing appliance;

[0006] A heat pump system comprising a compressor, a condenser, a throttling device, and an evaporator forming a closed refrigerant circuit, wherein the evaporator and the condenser are spaced apart in the heat exchange housing, the evaporator being used to cool the gas flowing out of the inner liner, and the condenser being used to heat the gas flowing into the inner liner;

[0007] An electrical component, which is disposed on the heat exchange housing and electrically connected to the compressor, includes a capacitor.

[0008] In the washing appliance of this embodiment, the air duct component and the heat pump system work together to dry the objects in the inner tank. By using electrical components, such as capacitors, mounted on the heat exchange housing and electrically connected to the compressor, the overall structural compactness of the heat pump assembly is improved, reducing redundant supports and connectors, optimizing space utilization, allowing for a smaller washing appliance, and enhancing integration performance. Furthermore, the capacitors are independently mounted on the heat exchange housing, facilitating disassembly and inspection, and aiding in long-term maintenance.

[0009] In some embodiments, the capacitor is located on the side of the heat exchange housing adjacent to the compressor.

[0010] In some embodiments, the heat exchange housing is provided with a support base, the support base is provided with a receiving hole, and the capacitor is inserted into the receiving hole.

[0011] In some embodiments, a water receiving tray is provided inside the heat exchange housing, the water receiving tray is located below the evaporator, and the heat pump assembly includes a water pump installed on the heat exchange housing for extracting condensate from the water receiving tray. The water pump and the capacitor are located on different sides of the heat exchange housing.

[0012] In some embodiments, the heat pump assembly includes a mounting bracket disposed on the heat exchange housing, a water pump disposed on the mounting bracket, the mounting bracket being flexible and having mounting holes in which the water pump is inserted.

[0013] In some embodiments, the heat exchange shell has a mounting column on its side wall, and the mounting bracket has a connecting part that connects to the mounting column. The connecting part has a mounting hole, and the mounting column passes through the mounting hole to suspend the water pump on the mounting bracket on the heat exchange shell.

[0014] In some embodiments, the evaporator and the condenser are connected to the compressor via refrigerant pipes that pass through the heat exchange housing. The heat pump assembly includes wires that are connected to at least one of the compressor and the water pump, and the wires extend onto the side of the heat exchange housing opposite to the refrigerant pipes.

[0015] In some embodiments, the heat exchange housing includes a first side, a second side, a third side, and a fourth side connected in sequence, with the first side opposite to the third side, the second side opposite to the fourth side, the capacitor and the water pump respectively disposed on the first side and the third side, and the refrigerant pipe and the wire respectively disposed on the second side and the fourth side.

[0016] In some embodiments, a limiting member is provided on the side of the heat exchange housing away from the refrigerant pipe, and a wire groove is formed between the limiting member and the side of the heat exchange housing, and the wire is at least partially accommodated in the wire groove.

[0017] The washing appliance of this application includes an inner tank and a heat pump assembly of any of the above embodiments. The air duct component further includes an air inlet pipe and an exhaust pipe, both of which are connected to the inner tank.

[0018] Additional aspects and advantages of this application will be set forth in part in the description which follows, and in part will be obvious from the description, or may be learned by practice of this application. Attached Figure Description

[0019] The above and / or additional aspects and advantages of this application will become apparent and readily understood from the following description of the embodiments taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein:

[0020] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a washing appliance according to certain embodiments of this application;

[0021] Figure 2 This is a partial perspective view of a washing appliance according to certain embodiments of this application;

[0022] Figure 3 This is another perspective view of a heat pump system according to certain embodiments of this application;

[0023] Figure 4 This is a partially exploded schematic diagram of a heat pump system according to certain embodiments of this application;

[0024] Figure 5 This is a partial cross-sectional schematic diagram of a heat pump system according to certain embodiments of this application;

[0025] Figure 6 yes Figure 5 An enlarged schematic diagram of part A of the heat pump system;

[0026] Figure 7 This is a perspective view of the mounting bracket according to some embodiments of this application;

[0027] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the cooperation between the fan and the water pump in some embodiments of this application;

[0028] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the wire arrangement of a heat pump assembly according to certain embodiments of this application from a side view.

[0029] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of the wire arrangement of a heat pump assembly according to certain embodiments of this application from a top view.

[0030] Figure 11 This is a heat pump component in some embodiments of this application.

[0031] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures:

[0032] 1000-Washing appliance, 1100-Inner tank, 1200-Heat pump system, 1500-Water softener, 100-Air duct components, 10-Heat exchange shell, 121-First side, 122-Second side, 123-Third side, 124-Fourth side, 14-Drain tray, 15-Drain outlet, 16-Limiting plate, 161-Slot, 20-Evaporator, 30-Condenser, 40-Fan, 41-Hall sensor, 60-Compressor, 61- Refrigerant pipe, 70-Inlet pipe, 80-Exhaust pipe, 90-Throttling device, 300-Drain assembly, 310-Water pump, 311-Metal casing, 312-Water inlet, 320-Mounting bracket, 321-Mounting hole, 322-Mounting part, 323-Connecting part, 3231-Hanging hole, 330-Mounting column, 331-Column body, 332-Hook-shaped part, 340-Drain pipe; 350-Extension pipe; 400-Support base; 401-Receiving hole;

[0033] 2000-Heat pump assembly, 2100-Electrical components, 2101-Capacitor, 2200-Wire, 2300-Limiting component, 2301-Wire trough, 2400-Fixing component. Detailed Implementation

[0034] The embodiments of this application are described in detail below. Examples of these embodiments are shown in the accompanying drawings, wherein the same or similar reference numerals denote the same or similar elements or elements having the same or similar functions throughout. The embodiments described below with reference to the accompanying drawings are exemplary and are only used to explain the embodiments of this application, and should not be construed as limiting the embodiments of this application.

[0035] In the description of the embodiments of this application, it should be understood that the terms "center," "longitudinal," "lateral," "length," "width," "thickness," "upper," "lower," "front," "rear," "left," "right," "vertical," "horizontal," "top," "bottom," "inner," "outer," "clockwise," and "counterclockwise," etc., indicating orientations or positional relationships based on the orientations or positional relationships shown in the accompanying drawings, are only for the convenience of describing the embodiments of this application and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore should not be construed as a limitation on the embodiments of this application. 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 indicated technical features. Thus, features defined with "first" and "second" may explicitly or implicitly include one or more of the stated features. In the description of the embodiments of this application, "multiple" means two or more, unless otherwise explicitly specified.

[0036] In the description of the embodiments of this application, it should be noted that, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," and "linkage" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; they can refer to a mechanical connection, an electrical connection, or a connection that allows for communication; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; they can refer to the internal communication of two components or the interaction between two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in the embodiments of this application according to the specific circumstances.

[0037] In embodiments of this application, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, "above" or "below" the second feature can include direct contact between the first and second features, or contact between the first and second features through another feature between them. Furthermore, "above," "over," and "on top" of the second feature includes the first feature being directly above or diagonally above the second feature, or simply indicates that the first feature is at a higher horizontal level than the second feature. "Below," "below," and "under" the second feature includes the first feature being directly below or diagonally below the second feature, or simply indicates that the first feature is at a lower horizontal level than the second feature.

[0038] The following disclosure provides numerous different embodiments or examples for implementing various structures of the embodiments of this application. To simplify the disclosure of the embodiments of this application, specific examples of components and arrangements are described below. Of course, these are merely examples and are not intended to limit the scope of this application. Reference numerals and / or reference letters may be repeated in different examples of the embodiments of this application; such repetition is for simplification and clarity and does not in itself indicate a relationship between the various embodiments and / or arrangements discussed. Furthermore, the embodiments of this application provide examples of various specific processes and materials, but those skilled in the art will recognize the application of other processes and / or the use of other materials.

[0039] Please see Figure 1 The washing appliance 1000 of this application includes an inner tank 1100 and a heat pump system 1200, which is connected to the inner tank 1100. The washing appliance 1000 is mainly used for washing various types of tableware. The inner tank 1100 can serve as the main structure of the washing appliance 1000. The inner tank 1100 forms a washing chamber 1101 with an opening, allowing tableware and other objects to be placed into the washing chamber 1101 through the opening. The washing chamber 1101 may be equipped with a bracket for supporting and securing tableware, and a water cup 1300 placed below the bracket. The water cup 1300 is used to collect and drain water generated during the washing and condensation processes. The washing appliance 1000 is, for example, a dishwasher.

[0040] The heat pump system 1200 dries the humid, hot air flowing out of the inner tank 1100 and heats the dried air so that the heated, dried air flows back into the inner tank 1100, thus achieving the effect of drying tableware and other items. The washing appliance 1000 is, for example, a dishwasher. It should be noted that the dried air mentioned above is relative to the humid, hot air inside the inner tank 1100, and does not mean that the air contains absolutely no moisture.

[0041] Please see Figure 2 and Figure 3 The heat pump assembly 2000 of this application embodiment is used in a washing appliance 1000. The heat pump assembly 2000 includes a duct component 100, a heat pump system 1200, and an electrical component 2100. The duct component 100 includes a heat exchange housing 10, which is configured to communicate with the inner tank 1100 of the washing appliance 1000. The heat pump system 1200 includes a compressor 60, a condenser 30, a throttling device 90, and an evaporator 20 that form a closed refrigerant circuit. The evaporator 20 and the condenser 30 are spaced apart in the heat exchange housing 10. The evaporator 20 is used to cool the gas flowing out of the inner tank 1100, and the condenser 30 is used to heat the gas flowing into the inner tank 1100. The electrical component 2100 is disposed on the heat exchange housing 10 and electrically connected to the compressor 60. The electrical component 2100 includes a capacitor 2101.

[0042] In the washing appliance 1000 of this application embodiment, the air duct component 100 and the heat pump system 1200 work together to dry the objects in the inner tank 1100. Electrical components 2100, such as capacitor 2101, are mounted on the heat exchange housing 10 and electrically connected to the compressor 60, thereby improving the overall structural compactness of the heat pump assembly 2000, reducing redundant supports and connectors, optimizing space utilization efficiency, and enabling the washing appliance 1000 to be more miniaturized and improving integration performance. Furthermore, the capacitor 2101 is independently installed on the heat exchange housing 10, facilitating disassembly and inspection, and aiding in long-term maintenance.

[0043] Specifically, the heat exchange housing 10 is used for ventilation. The heat exchange housing 10 can be made of easily moldable materials such as plastic, making it easy to manufacture. The ventilation channel formed by the heat exchange housing 10 is used to achieve the effect of ventilation, allowing gas to circulate between the inner tank 1100 of the washing appliance 1000 and the ventilation channel, thereby achieving the effect of drying tableware and other items.

[0044] The heat pump system 1200 is a module with heat exchange function. The heat pump system 1200 has at least some of the components of the heat pump system 1200 of the washing appliance 1000, so that the washing appliance 1000 can achieve the effect of drying tableware and other items through the heat pump system 1200.

[0045] The heat exchange housing 10 can be configured with a specific external structure according to the installation location of the heat pump system 1200, so that the heat pump system 1200 fits more compactly with the surrounding components. The heat exchange housing 10 has ventilation channels and communicates with the inner liner 1100.

[0046] Combination Figure 5 The evaporator 20 and condenser 30 can be housed within the heat exchange housing 10. The evaporator 20 is the heat exchanger in the heat pump system 1200. When the heat pump system 1200 is operating, the evaporator 20 can cool by absorbing heat from the air around it, thereby lowering the temperature of the surrounding air and causing the gas flowing through the evaporator 20 to condense into condensate, thus achieving the effect of drying the air.

[0047] The evaporator 20 is roughly flat. The evaporator 20 can be placed vertically, or in other words, the thickness direction of the evaporator 20 is roughly horizontal, and the thickness direction of the evaporator 20 is roughly parallel to the central axis of the ventilation duct, so as to increase the contact area between the gas in the ventilation duct and the evaporator 20, which is beneficial to improving the drying effect of the air flowing through the evaporator 20.

[0048] The condenser 30 is also a heat exchanger in the heat pump system 1200. When the heat pump system 1200 is working, the condenser 30 can generate heat, thereby absorbing heat from the surrounding air to raise the temperature of the surrounding air, so that the gas flowing through the condenser 30 can re-enter the inner tank 1100 of the washing appliance 1000 to achieve the effect of drying tableware and other items.

[0049] The condenser 30 is roughly flat. The condenser 30 can be placed vertically, or in other words, the thickness direction of the condenser 30 is roughly horizontal, and the thickness direction of the condenser 30 is roughly parallel to the central axis of the ventilation duct, so as to increase the contact area between the gas in the ventilation duct and the condenser 30, which is beneficial to improving the heating effect of the air flowing through the condenser 30.

[0050] Capacitor 2101 is used to regulate the circuit of compressor 60, ensuring the smooth operation of the motor in compressor 60. Capacitor 2101 can be installed on any side of heat exchange housing 10, and the installation position of capacitor 2101 matches the shape and size of heat exchange housing 10. For example, capacitor 2101 can be installed on the top surface of heat exchange housing 10, or it can be located on the side of heat exchange housing 10 near the bottom of heat exchange housing 10.

[0051] Optionally, capacitor 2101 is fixed to heat exchange housing 10 by means of clips, clamps, screws, etc.

[0052] Optionally, the heat exchange housing 10 has a reserved circuit interface to accommodate capacitors 2101 of various specifications.

[0053] Please see Figure 1 and Figure 11 In some embodiments, capacitor 2101 is located on the side of heat exchange housing 10 adjacent to compressor 60. This reduces wiring harness length and saves space.

[0054] Specifically, the compressor 60 is located outside the heat exchange housing 10, and the capacitor 2101 can be located on the wall of the heat exchange housing 10 adjacent to or opposite to the compressor 60.

[0055] Please see Figure 10 and Figure 11 In some embodiments, the heat exchange housing 10 is provided with a support base 400, and the support base 400 has a receiving hole 401, in which the capacitor 2101 is inserted. In this way, by inserting the capacitor 2101 into the receiving hole 401 of the support base 400, the capacitor 2101 is installed stably and can be protected to a certain extent.

[0056] Specifically, the support base 400 is fixedly connected to the outer wall of the heat exchange housing 10. The support base 400 may be integrally cylindrical, and the receiving hole 401 may have a depth formed along the axial direction of the support base 400. The receiving hole 401 may be a blind hole or a through hole. The capacitor 2101 may be wholly or partially housed in the receiving hole 401. One end face of the capacitor 2101 is connected to the conductive wire and protrudes outside the receiving hole 401.

[0057] Optionally, the support base 400 is disposed on the side of the heat exchange housing 10 adjacent to the compressor 60, which is referred to as the first side surface 121. The first side surface 121 can be a single straight surface or a curved surface, or it can present a complex shape combining straight and curved surfaces. For example, the first side surface 121 is partially concave in the direction away from the compressor 60, forming a concave curved surface, thereby providing a larger space to place the capacitor 2101 and the support base 400.

[0058] Please see Figures 2 to 4 In some embodiments, a water receiving tray 14 is provided inside the heat exchange housing 10, and the water receiving tray 14 is located below the evaporator 20. The heat pump assembly 2000 includes a water pump 310, which is installed on the heat exchange housing 10 and is used to extract condensate from the water receiving tray 14. The water pump 310 and the capacitor 2101 are located on different sides of the heat exchange housing 10.

[0059] Thus, during the operation of the heat pump system 1200, the water pump 310 can extract the condensate located below the evaporator 20, allowing the heat pump system 1200 to maintain normal operation. The water pump 310 is installed on the heat exchange housing 10, and the water pump 310 and the capacitor 2101 are located on different sides of the heat exchange housing 10. This makes full use of the space around the heat exchange housing 10 and brings the water pump 310 closer to the drain outlet 15, which is beneficial for the water pump 310 to pump water. This improves the overall structural compactness of the washing appliance 1000, allowing the washing appliance 1000 to be further miniaturized.

[0060] Optionally, the heat exchange housing 10 includes a top surface opposite to the water receiving pan 14 and a side surface connecting to the top surface and extending to the water receiving pan 14. The water pump 310 and the capacitor 2101 may be disposed on opposite or adjacent sides of the heat exchange housing 10.

[0061] Optionally, the heat exchange housing 10 is provided with a drain port 15 communicating with the water receiving pan 14, and the water pump 310 is used to extract condensate from the water receiving pan 14 through the drain port 15.

[0062] Please see Figure 2 and Figure 3 In some embodiments, the water pump 310 and the electrical component 2100 are located on opposite sides of the heat exchange housing 10. This allows for full utilization of the space on opposite sides of the heat exchange housing 10, improving space utilization, while also reducing the risk of short circuits in the electrical component 2100 due to water immersion, thus improving reliability.

[0063] Specifically, the heat exchange housing 10 may have three, four, five, or more sides. The water pump 310 and the electrical components 2100 are arranged opposite to each other, and may be respectively located on the two sides of the heat exchange housing 10 that are not connected to each other or are furthest apart.

[0064] For example, the heat exchange housing 10 includes a first side 121, a second side 122, a third side 123 and a fourth side 124 connected in sequence. The first side 121 is opposite to the third side 123, and the second side 122 is opposite to the fourth side 124. Electrical components 2100, such as a capacitor 2101, can be disposed on the first side 121, and a water pump 310 is disposed on the fourth side 124.

[0065] Please see Figure 1 and Figure 2 In some embodiments, the air duct component 100 further includes an air inlet pipe 70 and an exhaust pipe 80, both of which are connected to the inner liner 1100 and the heat exchange shell 10.

[0066] Specifically, the air inlet pipe 70 can guide the gas in the inner liner 1100 into the heat exchange shell 10, and the exhaust pipe 80 can guide the gas after passing through the evaporator 20 and the condenser 30 in sequence into the inner liner 1100. The air inlet pipe 70, the heat exchange shell 10 and the exhaust pipe 80 together form the air duct component 100, so as to realize the gas circulation between the heat exchange shell 10 and the inner liner 1100.

[0067] Both the air inlet pipe 70 and the exhaust pipe 80 can be flat pipes, facilitating close fitting with the outer wall of the inner tank 1100. In some embodiments, both the air inlet pipe 70 and the exhaust pipe 80 can be connected to the side wall of the inner tank 1100, for example, the left side wall, right side wall, or rear side wall of the inner tank 1100, thereby reducing interference between the air inlet pipe 70 and the exhaust pipe 80 and other components of the washing appliance 1000, and improving the reliability of the washing appliance 1000. In some embodiments, the air inlet pipe 70 can be connected to the top wall of the inner tank 1100, while the exhaust pipe 80 is connected to the side wall of the inner tank 1100.

[0068] The intake pipe 70 and the heat exchange housing 10 can be an integrally formed structure or a separate, detachable structure. Similarly, the exhaust pipe 80 and the heat exchange housing 10 can be an integrally formed structure or a separate, detachable structure.

[0069] In this embodiment, the evaporator 20 is located upstream of the condenser 30. Thus, the evaporator 20 and the condenser 30 cooperate with each other to cool and dry the air in the ventilation duct before heating it, thereby enabling the washing appliance 1000 to dry tableware and other items using the heat pump system 1200.

[0070] The evaporator 20 can condense water vapor in the air to form condensate. The condensate drips down under the action of gravity. Therefore, the drip tray 14 can catch the condensate formed by the evaporator 20, reducing the risk of condensate flowing to other places and causing adverse effects.

[0071] In one example, the water receiving tray 14 may be formed on the inner surface of the heat exchange shell 10, or in other words, the water receiving tray 14 and the heat exchange shell 10 may be an integral structure. For example, the surface of the heat exchange shell 10 may be recessed or inclined to form the water receiving tray 14.

[0072] In another example, the water receiving tray 14 and the heat exchange shell 10 are detachable structures, which allows the heat exchange shell 10 and the water receiving tray 14 to be molded independently and then assembled together, making the shape of the heat exchange shell 10 simpler and reducing the manufacturing cost of the heat exchange shell 10.

[0073] The main body of the water pump 310 can be cylindrical. The water pump 310 is connected to the drain outlet 15, so that the condensate in the water receiving pan 14 can be pumped out and discharged through the drain outlet 15.

[0074] Please see Figure 4 In some embodiments, the heat pump assembly 2000 includes a mounting bracket 320 disposed on the heat exchange housing 10, a water pump 310 disposed on the mounting bracket 320, and the mounting bracket 320 having a mounting hole 321 into which the water pump 310 is inserted.

[0075] Thus, the water pump 310 is mounted on the side wall of the heat exchange housing 10 via the mounting bracket 320, which makes the installation of the water pump 310 more stable.

[0076] Optionally, the mounting bracket 320 is flexible, so that the mounting bracket 320 can absorb the vibration generated by the water pump 310 during operation, thereby reducing the noise generated by the washing appliance 1000, improving the user experience of the washing appliance 1000, and also extending the service life of components such as the heat exchange housing 10.

[0077] Specifically, the mounting bracket 320 can be disposed on the side of the heat exchange housing 10. The mounting bracket 320 can be made of an elastic material such as silicone. It is understood that the mounting hole 321 has an opening on one axial side, through which the water pump 310 can be inserted. With the water pump 310 inserted into the mounting hole 321, the mounting bracket 320 can enclose at least a portion of the water pump 310, thereby improving the ability of the mounting bracket 320 to absorb vibrations generated by the water pump 310.

[0078] The shape of the mounting hole 321 matches the shape of the water pump 310 so that the mounting assembly fits more tightly with the water pump 310. For example, when the body of the water pump 310 is cylindrical, the mounting hole 321 is also a cylindrical hole.

[0079] Please see Figures 4-7 In some embodiments, the heat exchange housing 10 is provided with a mounting post 330 on its side wall, and the mounting bracket 320 is provided with a connecting part 323 connected to the mounting post 330. The connecting part 323 is provided with a mounting hole 3231. The mounting post 330 passes through the mounting hole 3231 to suspend the water pump 310 on the mounting bracket 320 on the heat exchange housing 10.

[0080] This allows the water pump 310 to be suspended on the heat exchange housing 10, reducing contact between the water pump 310 and other components of the washing appliance 1000, and reducing the transmission of vibration from the water pump 310 to other components of the washing appliance 1000 during operation, thereby reducing the noise of the washing appliance 1000. In addition, the mounting hole 3231 also makes it easier to install the mounting bracket 320 on the heat exchange housing 10.

[0081] Specifically, the mounting column 330 and the heat exchange shell 10 can be an integral structure. The mounting hole 3231 is a through hole, through which the mounting column 330 can be inserted, allowing the mounting bracket 320 to be hung on the mounting column 330. To ensure more stable installation of the mounting bracket 320, there can be multiple mounting columns 330 and multiple connecting parts 323, with each mounting column 330 and connecting part 323 corresponding to the others, and each connecting part 323 having a mounting hole 3231.

[0082] The mounting part 322 can be roughly cylindrical in shape, and the connecting part 323 can protrude tangentially from the mounting part 322.

[0083] The connecting part 323 can be in the form of a sheet, and can be installed on the heat exchange housing 10 by means of screws, fastening, etc., thereby facilitating the assembly of the mounting bracket 320 and the heat exchange housing 10. In one example, the mounting part 322 and the connecting part 323 are integrally molded structures. For example, the mounting part 322 and the connecting part 323 can be formed by silicone injection molding.

[0084] In some embodiments, the mounting post 330 is disposed perpendicular to the side wall of the heat exchange housing 10, the mounting hole 321 has an opening on one side in the horizontal direction, and the water pump 310 is horizontally mounted on the heat exchange housing 10.

[0085] Specifically, the mounting post 330 can be perpendicular to the surface of the heat exchange shell 10. The mounting post 330 and the heat exchange shell 10 can be an integral structure. The mounting hole 3231 is a through hole, and the mounting post 330 can be inserted into the mounting hole 3231, so that the mounting bracket 320 is hung on the mounting post 330. In order to make the mounting bracket 320 more stable, there can be multiple mounting posts 330 and connecting parts 323, and the mounting posts 330 and connecting parts 323 are arranged one-to-one, with each connecting part 323 having a mounting hole 3231.

[0086] The mounting bracket 320 may include a mounting portion 322, which has mounting holes 321. Multiple connecting portions 323 may be disposed at different positions on the mounting portion 322. In one example, there are four connecting portions 323, with two connected portions 323 disposed on the upper side of the mounting portion 322 and the other two connected portions 323 disposed on the lower side of the mounting portion 322. Each connecting portion 323 is mounted on a corresponding mounting post 330.

[0087] Please see Figures 5-7In some embodiments, the mounting post 330 includes a post body 331 and a hook-shaped portion 332 formed on the post body 331. The post body 331 is connected to the heat exchange housing 10 and passes through the mounting hole 321. The hook-shaped portion 332 prevents the connecting portion 323 from disengaging from the post body 331. In this way, the post body 331 can provide a mounting position for the mounting bracket 320, and the hook-shaped portion 332 prevents the connecting portion 323 from disengaging from the post body 331, making the mounting bracket 320 more stable when mounted on the heat exchange housing 10.

[0088] In one example, the mounting bracket 320 is elastic, so that during the process of installing the mounting bracket 320 onto the heat exchange housing 10, the mounting bracket 320 can be stretched so that the edge of the mounting hole 3231 extends beyond the edge of the hook portion 332, so that the connecting portion 323 can be hung on the mounting column 330.

[0089] Please see Figures 2-4 In some embodiments, the heat pump assembly 2000 includes a drain assembly 300, which includes a drain pipe 340. One end of the drain pipe 340 is connected to a drain outlet 15, and the drain pipe 340 is at least partially secured to the heat exchange housing 10. Thus, the drain pipe 340 can extract water from the water collection tray 14. The fact that the drain pipe 340 is at least partially secured to the heat exchange housing 10 makes its position more stable and improves the compactness of the connection between the drain pipe 340 and the heat exchange housing 10.

[0090] Specifically, the drain pipe 340 can be a flexible hose, or in other words, the drain pipe 340 is easily bendable, making it easy to connect the drain outlet 15 and the water pump 310. For example... Figure 4 As shown, a limiting piece 16 can be provided on the heat exchange shell 10. A groove 161 is formed between the limiting piece 16 and the heat exchange shell 10. The drain pipe 340 is locked in the groove 161, thereby limiting the position of the drain pipe 340.

[0091] Please see Figure 5 , Figure 6 and Figure 8 In some embodiments, the heat pump system 1200 further includes a fan 40 disposed within the heat exchange housing 10, the fan 40 having a Hall sensor 41, a water pump 310 disposed adjacent to the fan 40, the water pump 310 having a metal housing 311, the metal housing 311 being offset from the Hall sensor 41 along the axial direction of the fan 40.

[0092] In this way, the fan 40 can generate airflow in the duct component 100, allowing the gas to circulate between the inner liner 1100 and the duct component 100. The metal housing of the water pump 310 is offset from the Hall sensor 41 of the fan 40 along the axial direction of the fan 40. This reduces the influence of the water pump 310 on the Hall sensor 41 and improves the accuracy of the data detected by the Hall sensor 41.

[0093] Specifically, the fan 40 can be an axial flow fan or a centrifugal fan. The fan 40 can be embedded within the heat exchange housing 10 to ensure stable positioning. The Hall sensor 41 can be used to detect the rotational speed of the fan 40. For example, the rotor of the fan 40 can be equipped with magnetic elements such as magnets, forming a magnetic field around the magnetic elements. The Hall sensor 41 detects the rotational speed of the fan 40 by measuring the strength of the magnetic field.

[0094] The metal casing 311 of the water pump 310 can be made of steel. The steel casing can affect the magnetic field, which in turn can affect the detection of the Hall sensor 41. When the metal casing 311 of the water pump 310 and the Hall sensor 41 are offset, that is, when the metal casing 311 of the water pump 310 and the Hall sensor 41 are not aligned with the axis of the fan 40, the influence of the metal casing 311 of the water pump 310 on the Hall sensor 41 is smaller, thereby improving the accuracy of the detection data of the Hall sensor 41.

[0095] Please see Figure 3 , Figure 5 and Figure 8 In some embodiments, the water pump 310 is located near the drain outlet 15, the axis of the water pump 310 is horizontal, and the size of the water pump 310 is smaller than the size of the heat exchange housing 10 along the axial direction of the water pump 310.

[0096] Thus, the water pump 310 is positioned near the drain outlet 15, which shortens the length of the drain pipe 340 and reduces the resistance to the flow of condensate. This not only makes the washing appliance 1000 more compact but also reduces the power and size of the water pump 310. The axis of the water pump 310 is horizontally positioned, which facilitates the pump 310 in drawing condensate into the pump and then discharging it.

[0097] Furthermore, the size of the water pump 310 is smaller than that of the heat exchange housing 10, or in other words, the water pump 310 is smaller in volume and occupies less space, thereby making the washing appliance 1000 more compact.

[0098] Please see Figure 3 , Figure 5 and Figure 8In some embodiments, the fan 40 is a centrifugal fan, and the axis of the fan 40 is perpendicular to the axis of the water pump 310. Thus, when the fan 40 is a centrifugal fan, it draws in air axially and discharges air tangentially. The perpendicularity of the axis of the fan 40 to the axis of the water pump 310 reduces the space occupied by the fan 40 and the water pump 310 along the axial direction of the fan 40, thereby improving the structural compactness of the washing appliance 1000.

[0099] like Figure 2 As shown, in some embodiments, the washing appliance 1000 includes a water softener 1500, and the drain assembly 300 further includes an extension pipe 350 connecting the water pump 310 and the water softener 1500. The water pump 310 is used to draw condensate from the water tray 14 through the drain pipe 340 and discharge the condensate to the water softener 1500 through the extension pipe 350.

[0100] In this way, the condensate formed in the evaporator 20 can be fully utilized, improving the efficiency of condensate utilization. Specifically, the water softener 1500 is an ion exchange water softener 1500 with an operation and regeneration process. It uses sodium-type cation exchange resin to remove calcium and magnesium ions from the water, reducing the hardness of the raw water to soften the hard water, thereby preventing scale formation of carbonates in pipes and containers. This greatly saves investment costs while ensuring smooth production. In one embodiment, the water softener 1500 can be fixed to the side wall of the inner tank 1100. It should be noted that the above-mentioned water softener 1500 can be purchased commercially or manufactured directly by those skilled in the art.

[0101] Please see Figure 3 and Figure 4 In some embodiments, the water pump 310 has an inlet 312, and the inlet 312 and the outlet 15 are located on opposite sides of the water pump 310 along its axial direction. This provides sufficient space between the inlet 312 and the outlet 15 for installing the drain pipe 340. Furthermore, this design allows the metal casing 311 of the water pump 310 to be offset from the Hall sensor 41 of the fan 40, thereby improving the detection efficiency of the Hall sensor 41.

[0102] Please see Figure 9 and Figure 10 In some embodiments, the evaporator 20 and the condenser 30 are connected to the compressor 60 via a refrigerant pipe 61, which passes through the heat exchange housing 10. The heat pump assembly 2000 includes a wire 2200, which is connected to at least one of the compressor 60 and the water pump 310. The wire 2200 extends and is disposed on the side of the heat exchange housing 10 away from the refrigerant pipe 61.

[0103] Thus, by extending the wire 2200 to the side of the heat exchange housing 10 away from the refrigerant pipe 61, wiring crossings are reduced, the neatness of the wiring is improved, and the efficiency of troubleshooting is also improved. In addition, by reducing the contact between the energized wire 2200 and the refrigerant pipe 61, the risk of short circuit is reduced, and the reliability of the heat pump assembly 2000 is improved.

[0104] Specifically, one end of the refrigerant pipe 61 is connected to the evaporator 20 or condenser 30 inside the heat exchange housing 10, and extends out from one side of the heat exchange housing 10 to the compressor 60. The compressor 60 and the water pump 310 can be located on opposite sides of the heat exchange housing 10, and the wire 2200 can extend in the direction opposite to the water pump 310 and the compressor 60.

[0105] In some embodiments, the heat exchange housing 10 includes a first side 121, a second side 122, a third side 123, and a fourth side 124 connected in sequence and opposite to each other. The compressor 60 is opposite to the first side 121 and may partially extend beyond the fourth side 124. A wire 2200 is disposed on the second side 122, a water pump 310 is disposed on the third side 123, and a refrigerant pipe 61 extends from the fourth side 124 to the compressor 60. The first side 121 may be substantially parallel to the second side 122, and the first side 121 forms an angle with the second side 122 to provide a larger space outside the first side 121 for mounting the compressor 60.

[0106] Please see Figure 4 , Figure 9 and Figure 10 In some embodiments, a limiting member 2300 is provided on the side of the heat exchange housing 10 away from the refrigerant pipe 61, and a wire groove 2301 is formed between the limiting member 2300 and the side of the heat exchange housing 10, and the wire 2200 is at least partially accommodated in the wire groove 2301.

[0107] Thus, a wire groove 2301 is formed between the limiting member 2300 and the side of the heat exchange housing 10, and the wire 2200 is at least partially accommodated in the wire groove 2301, thereby fixing the extension direction of the wire 2200 relative to the housing, avoiding messy wiring, facilitating line maintenance, and making it easy to accommodate new wires 2200 and adapt to various optimization needs.

[0108] Specifically, the limiting member 2300 can be a bent sheet structure, or it can be a frame, tube, or other structural forms. One side of the limiting member 2300 is fixedly connected to the side of the heat exchange shell 10, and the other side can be a free end. The wire groove 2301 extends through the extension direction of the wire 2200 and forms an opening between the free end of the limiting member 2300 and the heat exchange shell 10, so that the wire 2200 can be inserted into the wire groove 2301.

[0109] Optionally, combined Figure 3 A sealing element 2400 is provided on the side of the heat exchange shell 10 opposite to the wire groove 2301, and the refrigerant pipe 61 passes through the sealing element 2400. Furthermore, an insulation layer is provided on the portion of the refrigerant pipe 61 outside the heat exchange shell 10. The insulation layer can retain the heat energy of the refrigerant in the refrigerant pipe 61 to a certain extent, improve energy efficiency, and also reduce the heat conduction from the refrigerant pipe 61 to the conductor 2200.

[0110] Optionally, there may be multiple conductors 2200, which are bundled together. This makes the wiring layout clearer and more compact, which is beneficial for wiring maintenance and also improves space utilization. The multiple conductors 2200 bundled together pass through the wire trough 2301, and the conductor 2200 segment passing through the wire trough 2301 is fixed relative to the side of the heat exchange shell 10.

[0111] Optionally, there can be multiple wire troughs 2301, which can be spaced apart along the extension direction of the conductor 2200 and the height direction of the heat exchange housing 10. Multiple wire troughs 2301 arranged along the extension direction of the conductor 2200 can further fix the relative position of the conductor 2200 and the heat exchange housing 10. In cases of complex wiring, by spaced multiple wire troughs 2301 along the height direction of the heat exchange housing 10, it is beneficial to separate high and low voltage lines, making the wiring more organized and clear.

[0112] Please refer to it again. Figure 1 and Figure 2 The washing appliance 1000 of this application includes an inner tank 1100 and a heat pump assembly 2000 of any of the above embodiments. The air duct component 100 also includes an air inlet pipe 70 and an exhaust pipe 80, both of which are connected to the inner tank 1100.

[0113] The washing appliance 1000 of this application includes the heat pump assembly 2000 of any of the above embodiments, and therefore has all the beneficial effects of the above embodiments.

[0114] In the description of this specification, the references to terms such as "one embodiment," "some embodiments," "illustrative embodiment," "example," "specific example," or "some examples," etc., indicate that a specific feature, structure, material, or characteristic described in connection with an embodiment or example is included in at least one embodiment or example of this application. In this specification, the illustrative expressions of the above terms do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment or example. Furthermore, the specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments or examples.

[0115] Although embodiments of this application have been shown and described above, it is understood that the above embodiments are exemplary and should not be construed as limiting this application. Those skilled in the art can make changes, modifications, substitutions and variations to the above embodiments within the scope of this application.

Claims

1. A heat pump assembly for a laundry appliance, characterized by, The heat pump assembly includes: A duct component, the duct component including a heat exchange housing configured to communicate with the inner tank of the washing appliance; A heat pump system comprising a compressor, a condenser, a throttling device, and an evaporator forming a closed refrigerant circuit, wherein the evaporator and the condenser are spaced apart within the heat exchange housing, the evaporator cooling gas flowing out of the inner liner, and the condenser heating gas flowing into the inner liner; and An electrical component, which is disposed on the heat exchange housing and electrically connected to the compressor, includes a capacitor.

2. The heat pump assembly of claim 1, wherein, The capacitor is located on the side of the heat exchange housing adjacent to the compressor.

3. The heat pump assembly of claim 1, wherein, The heat exchange shell is provided with a support base, and the support base is provided with a receiving hole, in which the capacitor is inserted.

4. The heat pump assembly of claim 1, wherein, The heat exchange housing is provided with a water receiving tray, which is located below the evaporator. The heat pump assembly includes a water pump, which is installed on the heat exchange housing and is used to extract condensate from the water receiving tray. The water pump and the capacitor are located on different sides of the heat exchange housing.

5. The heat pump assembly of claim 4, wherein, The heat pump assembly includes a mounting bracket disposed on the heat exchange housing, the mounting bracket having a mounting hole, and the water pump being inserted into the mounting hole.

6. The heat pump assembly of claim 5, wherein, The heat exchange shell has a mounting column on its side wall, and the mounting bracket has a connecting part that connects to the mounting column. The connecting part has a mounting hole, and the mounting column passes through the mounting hole to suspend the water pump on the mounting bracket on the heat exchange shell.

7. The heat pump assembly of claim 4, wherein, The evaporator and the condenser are connected to the compressor via refrigerant pipes, which pass through the heat exchange housing. The heat pump assembly includes wires that are connected to at least one of the compressor and the water pump. The wires extend from the heat exchange housing on the side opposite to the refrigerant pipes.

8. The heat pump assembly of claim 7, wherein, The heat exchange housing includes a first side, a second side, a third side, and a fourth side connected in sequence. The first side is opposite to the third side, and the second side is opposite to the fourth side. The capacitor and the water pump are respectively disposed on the first side and the third side, and the refrigerant pipe and the wire are respectively disposed on the second side and the fourth side.

9. The heat pump assembly of claim 7, wherein, A limiting member is provided on the side of the heat exchange shell away from the refrigerant pipe, and a wire groove is formed between the limiting member and the side of the heat exchange shell, and the wire is at least partially accommodated in the wire groove.

10. A washing appliance characterised in that, include: Inner liner; and The heat pump assembly according to any one of claims 1-9, wherein the air duct component further includes an air inlet pipe and an exhaust pipe, both of which are connected to the inner liner.

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