Drying module and combined washer-dryer

The drying module with a peripheral drive mechanism for the moisture absorbing wheel assembly addresses structural and airflow issues in washer-dryers, achieving a compact design and efficient drying performance.

JP2025527859AActive Publication Date: 2025-08-22NANJING ROBOROCK INNOVATION TECH CO LTD
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Patent Information

Application Number
JP2025512961
Authority / Receiving Office
JP · JP
Patent Type
Applications
Current Assignee / Owner
Priority Date
2022-08-31
Filing Date
2023-08-24
Publication Date
2025-08-22
Estimated Expiration
2043-08-24

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

Traditional washer-dryer machines face issues with increased structural size and reduced air flow efficiency due to the arrangement of the moisture absorbent disk and drive mechanism, which obstructs airflow and reduces moisture absorption efficiency.

Method used

A drying module with a moisture absorbing and dehumidifying member featuring a moisture absorbing rotating wheel assembly driven by a rotary wheel drive mechanism on its outer periphery, allowing for a compact design and uniform airflow without internal obstructions.

Benefits of technology

The solution reduces the overall height and thickness of the washer-dryer machine while ensuring uniform airflow and continuous moisture absorption capacity, enhancing drying efficiency.

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Abstract

This application discloses a drying module and a combined washer-dryer, belonging to the technical field of household electrical appliances. The drying module (D) includes a moisture absorbing and dehumidifying member (D1), the moisture absorbing and dehumidifying member (D1) including a moisture absorbing wheel assembly (D11), a wheel housing (D12), and a wheel drive mechanism (D13) used to drive the moisture absorbing wheel assembly (D11) to rotate. The moisture absorbing wheel assembly (D11) is rotatably mounted in the wheel housing (D12). The moisture absorbing wheel assembly (D11) includes an outer circumferential housing member (D112), and the outer circumferential housing member (D11) is provided with a power input member (D114) at its outer circumferential edge for inputting power from the wheel drive mechanism (D13) to rotate the moisture absorbing wheel assembly (D11). The power input member (D114) is driven by the wheel drive mechanism (D13) at its outer circumferential edge. This application contributes to reducing the overall height or thickness of a combined washer-dryer washing machine, and because there is no transmission structure in the central area of ​​the rotary table that obstructs the flow of air, the airflow can be guided to flow more evenly around the rotary table.
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Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] (Related Applications) This application claims priority to Chinese patent applications filed on August 31, 2022, with application number 202222327013.2, for an invention entitled "Integrated Washing and Drying Washing Machine," filed on August 31, 2022, with application number 202222326904.6, for an invention entitled "Integrated Washing and Drying Washing Machine," and filed on August 31, 2022, with application number 202222307976.6, for an invention entitled "Integrated Washing and Drying Washing Machine," the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0002] (Technical field) The present disclosure relates to the technical field of electrical appliances, and more particularly to drying modules and combined washer-dryers. [Background technology]

[0003] In the washing machine industry, automatic washer-dryer machines, which can dry clothes after washing, are increasingly popular among consumers because they can dry clothes after washing, a feature that is particularly suitable for humid weather. Traditional washer-dryer machines are usually classified into exhaust, condensation, and heat pump types, and these three types of washer-dryer machines have been improving their drying efficiency, but their prices have also been increasing.

[0004] In order to reduce costs while maintaining a good drying effect, a combined washer-dryer washing machine using a moisture absorbent material has recently been proposed. In such a combined washer-dryer washing machine, a moisture absorbent disc made of moisture absorbent material is rotatably mounted in a housing, and the inner cavity of the housing is divided into a moisture absorption region and a dehumidification region. The moisture absorbent disc absorbs moisture when rotating to the moisture absorption region and discharges moisture when rotating to the dehumidification region, thereby providing continuous moisture absorption capacity, and the airflow circulating through the drum and the moisture absorbent disc can dry the clothes in the drum.

[0005] However, in the related art, the absorbent disk is driven by a drive mechanism provided on the rotation axis. On the one hand, this arrangement increases the structural size along the rotation axis, and the large height or thickness is disadvantageous for a combination washer-dryer washing machine, especially a home washer-dryer washing machine. On the other hand, the connection between the absorbent disk and the drive mechanism is located in the middle of the absorbent disk, and the related structure affects the flow of air within the space where the absorbent disk is located, preventing the air from reaching the absorbent disk uniformly and reducing moisture absorption efficiency. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0006] To overcome the above deficiencies, the present disclosure provides a drying module and an integrated washer-dryer. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] The drying module provided by the present disclosure comprises a moisture absorbing and dehumidifying member, the moisture absorbing and dehumidifying member including a moisture absorbing rotating wheel assembly, a rotating wheel housing, and a rotating wheel drive mechanism used to drive the moisture absorbing rotating wheel assembly to rotate, the moisture absorbing rotating wheel assembly being rotatably mounted in the rotating wheel housing, the moisture absorbing rotating wheel assembly including an outer peripheral housing member, the outer peripheral edge of which is provided with a power input member for introducing power from the rotating wheel drive mechanism to rotate the moisture absorbing rotating wheel assembly, and the power input member being driven by the rotating wheel drive mechanism at its outer peripheral edge.

[0008] In the drying module provided by the present application, the rotary wheel drive mechanism located on the outer periphery of the moisture absorption rotary wheel assembly allows for highly flexible use of the space around the moisture absorption rotary wheel assembly, and allows the axial size of the moisture absorption and dehumidification member to be reduced and made flat overall, contributing to a reduction in the overall height or thickness of the combined washing and drying washing machine. Furthermore, with this technical solution, there is no transmission structure inside the rotary wheel housing or in the central area of ​​the rotary table that obstructs the flow of air, so the airflow can be guided to flow more uniformly around the rotary table.

[0009] The combined washing and drying washing machine provided by the present disclosure includes the above-mentioned drying module.

[0010] In the combined washer-dryer washing machine equipped with the drying module, the rotary wheel drive mechanism disposed on the outer periphery of the moisture absorption rotary wheel assembly of the drying module allows for highly flexible utilization of the space around the moisture absorption rotary wheel assembly, and the axial size of the moisture absorption and dehumidification member can be reduced to make it flat overall, thereby contributing to a reduction in the overall height or thickness of the combined washer-dryer washing machine. Furthermore, with this technical solution, there is no transmission structure inside the rotary wheel housing or in the central region of the rotary table that would obstruct the flow of air, so the airflow can be guided to flow more uniformly around the rotary table. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0011] In order to more clearly describe the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention, the following briefly describes the accompanying drawings that need to be used in the description of the embodiments. Obviously, the accompanying drawings described below are only some embodiments of the present invention, and those skilled in the art can obtain other drawings based on these accompanying drawings without any creative work. In the drawings: [Figure 1] 1 is a structural schematic diagram of a washing and drying combination washing machine according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. FIG. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is an exploded view of the moisture absorbing and dehumidifying member in FIG. [Figure 3]1 is an exemplary assembly diagram illustrating an interlocking moisture absorbing wheel assembly and wheel drive mechanism. FIG. [Figure 4] FIG. 10 is a top view of the lower housing of the rotating wheel with the circumferential roller mechanism and the bottom roller mechanism. [Figure 5] FIG. 10 is an exemplary exploded view of a moisture absorbing wheel assembly. [Figure 6] FIG. 10 is a three-dimensional schematic view of the lower wheel housing with the moisture absorbing wheel assembly and bottom roller mechanism. [Figure 7] FIG. 10 is a top view of the lower housing with the bottom roller mechanism. [Figure 8] FIG. 1 is a three-dimensional schematic view of the bottom roller mechanism. [Figure 9] FIG. 2 is a schematic three-dimensional view of the bottom roller. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a three-dimensional schematic view of the lower wheel housing with the moisture absorbing wheel assembly and circumferential roller mechanism. [Figure 11] FIG. 10 is a top view of the lower housing of the rotating wheel equipped with the circumferential roller mechanism. [Figure 12] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram illustrating the structure of a circumferential roller. [Figure 13] FIG. 1 is an exploded view of the moisture absorbing wheel assembly. [Figure 14] 1 is a schematic assembly diagram of a circumferential roller and an auxiliary rotating ring in rolling contact. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0012] FIG. 1 is a structural schematic diagram of a combination washer / dryer washing machine according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. For clarity, FIG. 1 omits the outer housing of some components of the combination washer / dryer washing machine. Referring to FIG. 1 , the combination washer / dryer washing machine W includes a water inlet, a water outlet, a drum R, a drum drive unit, and a drying module D. The drum R is composed of an inner cylinder and an outer cylinder. The drum drive unit is communicably connected to the inner cylinder of the drum R to drive the inner cylinder to rotate. The outer cylinder is suspended or lifted from the frame of the combination washer / dryer washing machine. The water inlet and water outlet are respectively connected to the drum R. The drying module D includes a moisture absorbing and dehumidifying member D1, a moisture absorbing passage D2, and a dehumidifying passage D3. The moisture absorbing passage D2 has a moisture absorbing passage air inlet and a moisture absorbing passage air outlet. The drum R is connected to the moisture absorbing passage air inlet and the moisture absorbing passage air outlet. A moisture absorbing passage fan D23 is further provided in the moisture absorbing passage D2 to form a circulating moisture absorbing flow within the drum R and the moisture absorbing passage D2. A dehumidification passage fan D33 is provided in dehumidification passage D3 to form a dehumidification flow within dehumidification passage D3. Moisture absorbing and dehumidifying member D1 is provided between moisture absorbing passage D2 and dehumidification passage D3, and the moisture absorbing flow and the dehumidification flow all flow through moisture absorbing and dehumidifying member D1. During rotation of moisture absorbing and dehumidifying member D1, moisture in the moisture absorbing flow is absorbed and the absorbed moisture is discharged as a dehumidification flow. Of course, to achieve the laundry washing and drying functions and the operation of the combined washer-dryer washing machine W, the combined washer-dryer washing machine W further includes, but is not limited to, an outer housing for the clothes inlet and detergent drop port, a door body for covering the clothes inlet, display and operating components disposed on the outer housing, a frame, a control wheel, a drain pipe, and the like.

[0013] Figure 2 is an exploded view of the moisture absorbing and dehumidifying member in Figure 1. Referring to Figure 2, the moisture absorbing and dehumidifying member D1 includes a moisture absorbing rotating wheel assembly D11, a rotating wheel housing D12, and a rotating wheel drive mechanism D13. The rotating wheel housing D12 includes an upper rotating wheel housing D12U and a lower rotating wheel housing D12L, which are fixed to each other to form an inner cavity. The moisture absorbing rotating wheel assembly D11 is rotatably mounted in the inner cavity of the rotating wheel housing D12 along its rotation axis and is rotated by the driving force of the rotating wheel drive mechanism D13.

[0014] The rotating wheel housing D12 further has a moisture absorption inlet and a moisture absorption outlet. When viewed along the rotation axis of the moisture absorption rotating wheel assembly D11, the moisture absorption inlet and the moisture absorption outlet of the rotating wheel housing D12 are arranged on both sides of the moisture absorption rotating wheel assembly D11, allowing a moisture absorption stream to flow through the moisture absorption rotating wheel assembly D11. As the moisture absorption stream flows through the moisture absorption rotating wheel assembly D11, the moisture in the moisture absorption stream is absorbed by the moisture absorption rotating wheel assembly D11, and the moisture absorption stream flowing out from the moisture absorption rotating wheel assembly D11 becomes dry. This dry stream is then transported to the drum R to remove moisture from the drum R. The rotating wheel housing D12 further has a dehumidifier inlet and a dehumidifier outlet. When viewed along the rotation axis of the moisture absorption rotating wheel assembly D11, the dehumidifier inlet and the dehumidifier outlet of the rotating wheel housing D12 are similarly arranged on both sides of the moisture absorption rotating wheel assembly D11, allowing a dehumidifier stream to flow through the moisture absorption rotating wheel assembly D11. As the dehumidifying flow passes through the moisture-absorbing rotating wheel assembly D11, moisture in the moisture-absorbing rotating wheel assembly D11 is carried away by the supplied dry dehumidifying flow, regenerating the moisture-absorbing rotating wheel assembly D11 and ensuring its continuous moisture absorption capacity. The rotating wheel housing D12 has at least two pairs of dividing ribs D121 extending opposite each other on the inner end walls of its upper and lower housings D12U and D12L, dividing the interior space of the rotating wheel housing D12 into a moisture-absorbing region D1211 and a dehumidifying region D1212, separating the moisture-absorbing and dehumidifying flows within the rotating wheel housing D12. In some other embodiments, dividing ribs may be provided only on the inner end walls of the upper or lower housings D12U and D12L, and the number of dividing ribs may be greater than two.

[0015] When the combined washer-dryer washing machine W enters the drying mode, the moisture absorption passage fan D23 is activated, generating a moisture absorption stream in the moisture absorption passage D2. As the moisture absorption stream passes through the drum R, it absorbs a portion of the moisture in the cavity, and the resulting wet airflow then flows into the moisture absorption and dehumidification member D11. The wet moisture absorber then enters the moisture absorption region D1211 of the rotating wheel housing D12 through the moisture absorption inlet of the rotating wheel housing D12 and passes through the rotating moisture absorption rotating wheel assembly D11. Because the rotary table D111 in the moisture absorption rotating wheel assembly D11 has moisture absorption properties, the moisture absorption stream is dried as it passes through the moisture absorption rotating wheel assembly D11. The moisture absorption stream exiting the moisture absorption rotating wheel assembly D11 is dried, and the dried moisture absorption stream is transported back to the drum. This process repeats until the desired drying effect is achieved. However, the moisture absorption capacity of the rotary table D111 is limited, and after a certain time, the rotary table D111 becomes saturated and can no longer absorb any more moisture. For this reason, a dehumidifying passage is added, and the dehumidifying passage fan D33 is activated at the appropriate time under the control of the control wheel to generate a dehumidified airflow within the dehumidifying passage. The dehumidifying passage may be connected to the external environment or may be an internal circulation system. In either case, however, the airflow in the dehumidifying zone D1212 entering the moisture absorption rotary wheel assembly D11 from the dehumidifying passage inlet is guaranteed to be dry, so that moisture in the rotating rotary table is desorbed and carried away with the dehumidified airflow. In this way, the rotary table D111 absorbs moisture as it rotates in the moisture absorption zone D1211 and discharges moisture as it rotates in the dehumidifying zone D1212, thereby providing continuous moisture absorption and allowing the drum's inner cavity to be continuously dried.

[0016] 3 is an assembly schematic diagram showing an example of the moisture-absorbing rotating wheel assembly and the rotating wheel drive mechanism in an interlocking state. As shown in FIG. 3, the moisture-absorbing rotating wheel assembly D11 is not driven in the central region, but is driven at its outer periphery by the rotating wheel drive mechanism D13. That is, the rotating wheel drive mechanism D13 applies the driving force output therefrom to the outer periphery of the moisture-absorbing rotating wheel assembly D11.

[0017] Specifically, the moisture-absorbing rotating wheel assembly D11 includes a power input member D114 that receives power from the rotating wheel drive mechanism D13 to rotate the moisture-absorbing rotating wheel assembly D11. The power input member D114 is integrally molded on the outer circumferential surface of the outer housing member D112 of the moisture-absorbing rotating wheel assembly D11. Of course, a separately manufactured power input member D114 may also be fixed to the outer circumferential surface of the outer housing member D112. The power input member D114 has cam teeth D1141 uniformly distributed along the circumferential direction, and in some embodiments, the cam teeth D1141 may be straight teeth.

[0018] 3, the rotary wheel drive mechanism D13 includes a rotary wheel drive motor D131 and a corresponding transmission mechanism D132. The output shaft of the rotary wheel drive motor D131 is connected to the corresponding transmission mechanism D132 so as not to rotate relative to each other, for example, by a keyway fit. The corresponding transmission mechanism D132 is configured to correspond to the power input member D114 of the moisture-absorbing rotary wheel assembly D11. In some embodiments, the corresponding transmission mechanism D132 is configured with spur teeth that can mesh with the straight teeth of the power input member D114.

[0019] Referring to FIG. 3 , the moisture-absorbing rotating wheel assembly D11 and the rotating wheel drive mechanism D13 are arranged substantially side by side along a direction perpendicular to the rotation axis of the moisture-absorbing rotating wheel assembly D11, i.e., along the radial direction. Here, the power input member D114 of the moisture-absorbing rotating wheel assembly D11 and the corresponding transmission mechanism D132 of the rotating wheel drive mechanism D13 are arranged in the same plane extending perpendicular to the rotation axis. The rotating wheel drive motor D131 of the rotating wheel drive mechanism D13 is arranged below the corresponding transmission mechanism D132, and the output shaft of the rotating wheel drive motor D131 extends along a direction parallel to the rotation axis. In this way, a compact structure of the moisture-absorbing rotating wheel assembly D11 is achieved. Particularly advantageously, the rotating wheel drive mechanism D13 is arranged outside the radial size range of the moisture-absorbing rotating wheel assembly D11, thereby avoiding obstruction of airflow to the moisture-absorbing rotating wheel assembly D11.

[0020] In some other non-illustrated embodiments, the power input member may be configured with other types of teeth, such as helical or curved teeth. For example, the outer peripheral end face of the outer housing member of the moisture absorbent wheel assembly may be provided with curved teeth, and the corresponding transmission mechanism may be configured as a bevel gear. In such embodiments, the output shaft of the wheel drive motor is disposed perpendicular to the rotational axis of the moisture absorbent wheel assembly.

[0021] In other embodiments not shown, the power input member may be configured with a smooth surface or molded grooves uniformly distributed along the circumferential direction, and the corresponding transmission mechanism may be configured as a friction pulley such as a pulley for driving a flat belt, or a meshing pulley such as a toothed belt pulley. When the corresponding transmission mechanism is configured as a friction pulley, it is advantageous to configure the power input member as a smooth surface with a surface microstructure to increase the friction force.

[0022] In some other non-illustrated embodiments, the power input member D114 may be configured with sprocket teeth, and the corresponding transmission mechanism is configured as a sprocket.

[0023] As shown in FIG. 2, the rotary wheel drive mechanism D13 and the moisture-absorbing rotary wheel assembly D11 share a single rotary wheel housing D12. In other words, the rotary wheel housing D12 has a housing for housing the moisture-absorbing rotary wheel assembly D11 and the rotary wheel drive mechanism D13, respectively. This configuration is particularly advantageous for sealing the moisture-absorbing and dehumidifying flows because the entire outer periphery of the rotary wheel housing D12 is sealed to prevent the moisture-absorbing and dehumidifying flows from leaking outside the rotary wheel housing D12. Therefore, a baffle plate and optional sealing members are provided in the housing for the rotary wheel drive mechanism D13 of the rotary wheel housing D12 to prevent air from entering the housing for the moisture-absorbing rotary wheel assembly D11 from the housing for the rotary wheel drive mechanism D13, thereby protecting the rotary wheel drive mechanism D13 from moisture.

[0024] Of course, the rotary wheel drive mechanism D13 and the moisture-wicking rotary wheel assembly D11 each have separate housings that are fixed to each other, and in such an embodiment, an additional sealing member is provided to seal the fixed position between the respective housings of the rotary wheel drive mechanism D13 and the moisture-wicking rotary wheel assembly D11.

[0025] The rotary wheel drive mechanism D13 disposed on the outer periphery of the moisture absorbing rotary wheel assembly D11 allows for flexible use of the space around the moisture absorbing rotary wheel assembly D11, and the axial size of the moisture absorbing and dehumidifying member D1 can be reduced to make the entire assembly flatter, thereby contributing to a reduction in the overall height or thickness of the combined washer-dryer washing machine. Furthermore, in this embodiment, there is no transmission structure inside the rotary wheel housing D12 or in the central region of the rotary table that obstructs the flow of air, so the airflow can be guided to flow more uniformly around the rotary table.

[0026] Since the driving force is applied to the outer peripheral edge of the moisture-absorbing rotating wheel assembly D11, the force acting on the moisture-absorbing rotating wheel assembly D11 is non-centrosymmetric, and in order for the moisture-absorbing rotating wheel assembly D11 to rotate more stably than when driven from the circumferential side, it is particularly advantageous to utilize a circumferential roller mechanism and / or a bottom roller mechanism D123 to assist in its stable rotation.

[0027] Figure 4 is a top view of the rotating wheel lower housing, which includes the circumferential roller mechanism and the bottom roller mechanism D123. As shown in Figure 4, multiple (here, six) circumferential roller mechanisms D122 are provided on the inner periphery of the rotating wheel housing D12. Each circumferential roller mechanism D122 includes a circumferential roller D1221 and a circumferential roller bracket D1222, where the circumferential roller D1221 is rotatably mounted on the circumferential roller bracket D1222, which is provided on the inner periphery of the rotating wheel housing D12. When viewed in a direction parallel to the rotation axis of the moisture-absorbing rotating wheel assembly D11, i.e., along the axial direction, the circumferential roller D1221 is positioned within the axial size range of the moisture-absorbing rotating wheel assembly D11. When viewed in a direction perpendicular to the rotation axis of the moisture absorbing rotating wheel assembly D11, i.e., along the radial direction, the circumferential roller D1221 is provided between the moisture absorbing rotating wheel assembly D11 and the rotating wheel housing D12, and the circumferential roller D1221 is in rolling contact with the outer circumferential surface of the moisture absorbing rotating wheel assembly D11 for at least a portion of the time during the rotation of the moisture absorbing rotating wheel assembly D11. In this embodiment, at least a portion of the circumferential roller D1221 protrudes from the entire inner circumferential wall of the rotating wheel housing D12 toward the rotation axis.

[0028] As shown in FIG. 4, a plurality of bottom roller mechanisms D123, here four, are further provided on the inner bottom wall of the rotating wheel housing D12, and the bottom roller mechanism D123 includes a bottom roller D1231 and a bottom roller bracket D1232, the bottom roller D1231 is rotatably mounted on the bottom roller bracket D1232, and the bottom roller bracket D1232 is mounted on the rotating wheel housing D12. When viewed in a direction perpendicular to the rotation axis of the absorbent wheel assembly D11, i.e., along the radial direction, the bottom roller D1231 is disposed within the radial size range of the absorbent wheel assembly D11, and when viewed in a direction parallel to the rotation axis of the absorbent wheel assembly D11, i.e., along the axial direction, the bottom roller D1231 is disposed between the absorbent wheel assembly D11 and the wheel housing D12, and the distance between the bottom roller D1231 and the absorbent wheel assembly D11 is smaller than the minimum distance between the absorbent wheel assembly D11 and the wheel housing D12. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the bottom roller D1231 protrudes from the entire inner bottom wall of the wheel housing D12 toward the absorbent wheel assembly D11.

[0029] Fig. 5 is an exploded view showing an example of the moisture-absorbing rotary wheel assembly D11. Referring to Fig. 5, the moisture-absorbing rotary wheel assembly D11 includes, but is not limited to, a rotary table D111, an outer peripheral housing member D112, a power input member D114 provided on the outer peripheral edge of the outer peripheral housing member D112, and an auxiliary rotary ring D115.

[0030] 5, the outer peripheral housing member D112 is composed of an annular outer peripheral upper clamp housing D112U and an outer peripheral lower clamp housing D112L. The outer peripheral upper clamp housing D112U has an L-shaped longitudinal cross section and includes radially extending end sections and an axially extending circumferential section. Similarly, the outer peripheral lower clamp housing D112L also has an L-shaped longitudinal cross section and includes radially extending end sections and an axially extending circumferential section. The outer peripheral upper clamp housing D112U and the outer peripheral lower clamp housing D112L are engaged with each other by fasteners and engagement grooves provided thereon, thereby forming a single-sided open groove inside for accommodating the peripheral region of the rotary table D111. In the locked state, the outer peripheral upper clamp housing D112U and the outer peripheral lower clamp housing D112L surround the entire outer peripheral surface of the rotary table D111 and clamp it from the upper and lower end faces of the peripheral region of the rotary table D111, respectively, thereby connecting the outer peripheral housing member D112 to the rotary table D111 so that it cannot rotate relative to it.

[0031] 4 and 5, the bottom roller mechanism D123 is disposed on the inner bottom surface of the rotating wheel housing D12 in an end section facing the inner bottom surface of the outer peripheral housing member D112, i.e., in an area facing the end section of the outer peripheral lower clamp housing D112L, so that the end section of the outer peripheral housing member D112 can be in rolling contact with the bottom roller mechanism D123. The axial distance between the bottom roller mechanism D123 and the outer peripheral housing member D112 is set so that the bottom roller mechanism D123 is already in rolling contact with the end section of the outer peripheral lower clamp housing D112L when the bottom roller mechanism D123 is in its initial mounting position. This allows the bottom roller mechanism D123 to assist the rotating wheel drive mechanism D13 in driving the moisture-absorbing rotating wheel assembly D11 to its outer periphery, allowing the moisture-absorbing rotating wheel assembly D11 to move smoothly in a plane perpendicular to the rotation axis.

[0032] 2, the auxiliary rotating ring D115 is disposed corresponding to the position of the circumferential roller mechanism D122, particularly the circumferential roller D1221, and is disposed so as to be in rolling contact with the circumferential roller D1221 in the circumferential rolling mechanism D122. The auxiliary rotating ring D115 may be molded integrally with the outer circumferential upper clamp housing D112U, or may be manufactured separately and then fixed, for example, by welding to the outer circumferential surface of the outer circumferential upper clamp housing D112U. In the initial mounting position, the auxiliary rotating ring D115 and the circumferential roller D1221 in the circumferential roller mechanism D122 are maintained in contact without being significantly pressed against each other, and when the moisture-absorbing rotating wheel assembly D11 begins to rotate, the auxiliary rotating ring D115 rolls into contact with the circumferential roller D1221 in the circumferential roller mechanism D122, thereby suppressing radial oscillation of the moisture-absorbing rotating wheel assembly D11. This ensures that the moisture-absorbing rotating wheel assembly D11 operates smoothly along the predetermined rotation axis with almost no increase in the rotational resistance of the moisture-absorbing rotating wheel assembly D11.

[0033] In addition, the power input member D114 and the auxiliary rotating ring D115 may be arranged on the outer peripheral edge of the outer peripheral lower clamp housing D112L, or may be located on the outer peripheral edges of the outer peripheral upper clamp housing D112U and the outer peripheral lower clamp housing D112L, respectively, as long as they are completely offset along the rotation axis direction.

[0034] Fig. 6 is a schematic three-dimensional view of the lower housing of the rotating wheel with the moisture-absorbing rotating wheel assembly D11 and the bottom roller mechanism D123, Fig. 7 is a top view of the lower housing of the rotating wheel with the bottom roller mechanism D123, and Fig. 8 is a schematic three-dimensional view of the bottom roller mechanism D123. Referring to Figs. 6 to 8, the bottom roller mechanism D123 includes a bottom roller D1231 and a bottom roller bracket D1232, the bottom roller D1231 is rotatably mounted on the bottom roller bracket D1232, and the bottom roller bracket D1232 is disposed on the rotating wheel housing D12. When viewed in a direction perpendicular to the rotation axis of the moisture absorbent wheel assembly D11, i.e., along the radial direction, the bottom roller D1231 is disposed within the radial size range of the moisture absorbent wheel assembly D11, and when viewed in a direction parallel to the rotation axis of the moisture absorbent wheel assembly D11, i.e., along the axial direction, the bottom roller D1231 is disposed between the moisture absorbent wheel assembly D11 and the wheel housing D12, and the distance between the bottom roller D1231 and the moisture absorbent wheel assembly D11 is smaller than the minimum distance between the moisture absorbent wheel assembly D11 and the wheel housing D12. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the bottom roller D1231 protrudes from the entire inner bottom surface of the wheel housing D12 toward the moisture absorbent wheel assembly D11.

[0035] Of course, it is also possible to provide a downwardly protruding structure at the bottom of the moisture-absorbing rotating wheel assembly D11 to engage with the bottom roller mechanism D123, in which case the bottom roller does not have to be the part that protrudes most from the entire inner bottom surface of the rotating wheel housing D12, but it must be the part that comes into contact first with the moisture-absorbing rotating wheel assembly D11.

[0036] As a result, at least when the moisture-absorbing rotating wheel assembly D11 is offset along the axial direction, the bottom roller mechanism D123 can provide rolling support for the bottom of the moisture-absorbing rotating wheel assembly D11, reducing the rotational resistance and associated wear of the moisture-absorbing rotating wheel assembly D11 and protecting it from collision with the bottom of the rotating wheel housing D12.

[0037] In some embodiments, these four bottom roller mechanisms D123 are distributed around the same circumference on the inner bottom surface of the rotating wheel housing D12, thereby providing relatively uniform rolling support for the moisture-absorbing rotating wheel assembly D11. Of course, other numbers of bottom roller mechanisms D123 are also contemplated. Advantageously, multiple bottom roller mechanisms D123 are distributed evenly around the same circumference on the inner bottom surface of the rotating wheel housing D12.

[0038] 5, the moisture-absorbing rotating wheel assembly D11 includes a rotary table D111 and an outer peripheral housing member D112. The outer peripheral housing member D112 includes a pair of end sections extending perpendicular to the rotation axis, and the pair of end sections clamp the end face of the rotary table D111 in a peripheral region. The bottom roller mechanism D123 is disposed on the inner bottom surface of the rotating wheel housing D12 in an area facing the end section of the inner bottom surface of the outer peripheral housing member D112, thereby allowing the end section of the outer peripheral housing member D112 to roll in contact with the bottom roller mechanism D123.

[0039] Furthermore, it is also conceivable that the moisture-absorbing rotating wheel assembly D11 further includes a central housing member having a pair of end sections extending in a direction perpendicular to the rotation axis, and by using these pair of end sections to clamp the end face in the central region of the rotary table, the bottom roller mechanism D123 is positioned in an area opposite the end section of the central housing member on the inner bottom surface of the rotating wheel housing D12, so that the bottom roller mechanism D123 rolls into contact with the end section of the central housing member of the moisture-absorbing rotating wheel assembly D11.

[0040] In some embodiments, when the bottom roller mechanism D123 is initially installed, the bottom roller mechanism D123 is already in rolling contact with the bottom of the moisture-absorbing wheel assembly D11. This provides constant rolling support to the rotating moisture-absorbing wheel assembly D11 via the bottom roller mechanism D123, substantially eliminating wear due to sliding friction between the moisture-absorbing wheel assembly D11 and the bottom of the wheel housing D12, or eliminating the need for an additional bearing device for this purpose. On the other hand, the bottom roller mechanism D123 provides a limiting function, preventing the moisture-absorbing wheel assembly D11 from offsetting axially from the bottom of the wheel housing D12, thereby preventing the moisture-absorbing wheel assembly D11 from colliding with the wheel housing D12. Advantageously, the bottom roller structure is non-deformable, providing stable rolling support for the rotating moisture-absorbing wheel assembly D11. Even more advantageously, the installation spacing between the bottom roller mechanism D123 and the moisture-absorbing wheel assembly D11 allows contact between them without significant pressing force.

[0041] In some other embodiments, in the initial mounting position of the bottom roller mechanism D123, a small gap exists between the bottom roller mechanism D123 and the moisture-absorbing rotating wheel assembly D11, particularly between the outer peripheral housing member, so that the moisture-absorbing rotating wheel assembly D11 does not come into contact with the bottom roller mechanism D123 when rotating within its set rotation plane, and only comes into rolling contact with the bottom roller mechanism D123 when the moisture-absorbing rotating wheel assembly D11 is offset in the direction of the rotation axis. According to such an embodiment, advantageously, the bottom roller is configured to be able to undergo small deformation, thereby reducing the force at the moment of contact between the moisture-absorbing rotating wheel assembly D11 and the bottom roller mechanism D123.

[0042] FIG. 9 is a three-dimensional schematic diagram of the bottom roller. Referring to FIG. 9, in some embodiments, a groove for accommodating the bottom roller mechanism D123 is provided on the inner bottom surface of the rotating wheel housing D12. The bottom roller bracket D1232 of the bottom roller mechanism D123 is fixed in the groove. The bottom roller bracket D1232 itself is configured as a hollow member, and a portion of the assembled bottom roller D1231 is accommodated in the cavity of the hollow member. This arrangement method further reduces the maximum size, i.e., height, of the moisture absorption and dehumidification member D1 in the direction of the rotation axis. It is also conceivable that the bottom roller bracket is integrally molded directly onto the inner bottom surface of the rotating wheel housing D12.

[0043] In some other embodiments, the bottom roller bracket D1232 is fixed to the rotating wheel housing D12 with the help of a first fixing mechanism, which is configured to adjust the axial distance between the bottom roller bracket D1232 and the moisture-absorbing rotating wheel assembly D11 in the initial mounting position.

[0044] As a result, the bottom roller mechanism D123 can be applied to more sizes of moisture-absorbing rotating wheel assemblies D11 and can be applied to more operating modes, such as the mode in which it contacts the moisture-absorbing rotating wheel assembly D11 in the initial state and the mode in which it does not contact the moisture-absorbing rotating wheel assembly D11 in the initial state.

[0045] Referring to FIG. 9 , in some embodiments, the peripheral surface of the bottom roller D1231 is substantially smooth. In other embodiments, the peripheral surface of the bottom roller D1231 has an uneven surface structure. The bottom roller D1231 includes a bottom roller body and a bottom rotation shaft. In some embodiments, the bottom roller body is rotatable relative to the bottom rotation shaft, so the bottom rotation shaft and the bottom roller bracket D1232 only need to be non-rotatably connected, e.g., locked. In other embodiments, the bottom roller body is non-rotatable relative to the bottom rotation shaft, so the bottom rotation shaft and the bottom roller bracket D1232 only need to be rotatably connected.

[0046] FIG. 10 is a three-dimensional schematic diagram of the moisture-absorbent rotating wheel assembly D11 and the lower rotating wheel housing equipped with circumferential roller mechanisms. As shown in FIGS. 2 and 10, a plurality of circumferential roller mechanisms D122 are provided on the inner periphery of the rotating wheel housing D12. The circumferential roller mechanism D122 includes circumferential rollers D1221 and circumferential roller brackets D1222. The circumferential rollers D1221 are rotatably mounted on the circumferential roller brackets D1222, which are provided on the inner periphery of the rotating wheel housing D12. When viewed in a direction parallel to the rotation axis of the moisture-absorbent rotating wheel assembly D11, i.e., along the axial direction, the circumferential rollers D1221 are positioned within the axial size range of the moisture-absorbent rotating wheel assembly D11, i.e., the circumferential rollers D1221 are positioned within the thickness range of the moisture-absorbent rotating wheel assembly D11. When viewed in a direction perpendicular to the rotation axis of the moisture-absorbing rotating wheel assembly D11, i.e., along the radial direction, the circumferential roller D1221 is arranged between the moisture-absorbing rotating wheel assembly D11 and the rotating wheel housing D12, and the circumferential roller D1221 can roll and contact the outer peripheral surface of the moisture-absorbing rotating wheel assembly D11 for at least part of the time during the rotation process of the moisture-absorbing rotating wheel assembly D11.

[0047] As shown in FIG. 10 , the inner peripheral edge of the lower wheel housing D12L is stepped, and a circumferential roller bracket D1222 is attached to the end face of the step, extending in a direction perpendicular to the rotation axis, i.e., in the radial direction. The circumferential roller D1221 is rotatably attached to the circumferential roller bracket D1222. In this embodiment, at least a portion of the assembled circumferential roller D1221 protrudes from the entire inner peripheral wall of the inner peripheral edge of the wheel housing D12 toward the rotation axis, particularly from the circumferential surface of the step. In this embodiment, the circumferential surface of the step forms the wheel housing sealing member D124, i.e., the wheel housing sealing member is formed from the inner wall of the wheel housing D12 itself and forms a contact seal with the wheel sealing member D116 of the moisture-absorbing wheel assembly D11. In other embodiments, the wheel housing sealing member D123 may be formed separately and then attached to the inner wall of the wheel housing D12, or may be integrally molded with the inner wall of the wheel housing D12. Of course, as long as the moisture-absorbing rotating wheel assembly D11 can be in rolling contact for at least part of the time during the rotation process, the assembled circumferential roller may protrude from the inner peripheral wall of the rotating wheel housing D12 only at the axial height where it is located, and may be the most protruding structure on the inner peripheral edge of the rotating wheel housing D12.

[0048] As a result, when the moisture-absorbing rotating wheel assembly D11 is offset radially, the circumferential roller mechanism D122 acts to restrict the moisture-absorbing rotating wheel assembly D11 in the form of rolling contact, helping the moisture-absorbing rotating wheel assembly D11 to operate along its set rotational trajectory without inducing significant rotational resistance, and in particular preventing direct collision with the rotating wheel housing D12 itself, thereby reducing the risk of damage to the moisture-absorbing rotating wheel assembly D11.

[0049] In some embodiments, in the initial mounting position, the circumferential roller mechanism D122, particularly the circumferential roller D1221 thereof, can be in rolling contact with the outer circumferential surface of the moisture-absorbing rotating wheel assembly D11, preferably without being pressed against each other, thereby enabling the circumferential rolling mechanism D122 to constantly assist the rotation of the moisture-absorbing rotating wheel assembly D11 without increasing its rotational resistance, preventing the moisture-absorbing rotating wheel assembly D11 from swinging radially during rotation and ensuring stable rotation.

[0050] In some other embodiments, in the initial mounting position, the circumferential roller mechanism D122, particularly the circumferential roller D1221, has a small gap between itself and the outer circumferential surface of the moisture-absorbing rotating wheel assembly D11, so that when the moisture-absorbing rotating wheel assembly D11 rotates around a set rotation axis, it does not come into contact with the circumferential roller mechanism D122, but only comes into rolling contact with the circumferential roller mechanism D122 when the moisture-absorbing rotating wheel assembly D11 is offset in a direction perpendicular to the rotation axis, i.e., along the radial direction. This allows the circumferential roller mechanism D122 to protect the moisture-absorbing rotating wheel assembly D11 from direct collision with the rotating wheel housing D12.

[0051] Particularly advantageously, the circumferential roller mechanism D122 is configured to be deformable. In some embodiments, the circumferential roller D1221 in the circumferential roller mechanism D122 is configured to be flexible and deformable. This allows the flexible deformation characteristics of the circumferential roller D1221 to mitigate any radial offset of the moisture-absorbing rotating wheel assembly D11.

[0052] In additional or alternative embodiments, the circumferential roller bracket D1222 in the circumferential roller mechanism D122 is configured to be offsettable. When the moisture-absorbing rotating wheel assembly D11 is radially offset, the circumferential roller bracket D1222 is pressed and offset, thereby changing the distance between the circumferential roller D1221 and the rotation axis of the moisture-absorbing rotating wheel assembly D11 or a set rotation axis. In one embodiment, the circumferential roller bracket D1222 itself is configured to be elastically deformable. In another embodiment, the circumferential roller bracket D1222 as a whole is configured to move along a sliding track to change its distance from the rotation axis, and an elastic reset member, such as a spring, is fixed on the rotating wheel housing D12 to return the circumferential roller bracket to its initial position. Specifically, the sliding track may be formed by a groove provided in the rotating wheel housing D12 and a slider corresponding to the circumferential roller bracket, or the sliding track may be formed by a guide protrusion provided in the rotating wheel housing D12 and a guide engagement claw corresponding to the circumferential roller bracket.

[0053] FIG. 11 is a top view of the lower housing of the rotating wheel D12, which includes the circumferential roller mechanisms. Referring to FIG. 11, six circumferential roller mechanisms D122 are provided on the inner periphery of the rotating wheel housing D12. To clearly show the circumferential roller brackets D1222, only two of the circumferential roller mechanisms D122, each equipped with a circumferential roller D1221, are shown in FIG. 3, while the remaining four are shown with only the circumferential roller brackets D1222. In some embodiments, these circumferential roller mechanisms D122 are uniformly distributed around the inner periphery of the rotating wheel housing D12. Circumferential roller brackets D1222 have circular holes through which the rotation shafts of the circumferential rollers D1221 are inserted. The circumferential roller brackets D1222 may be molded integrally with the rotating wheel housing D12, or may be manufactured separately and then fixed to the rotating wheel housing D12. Since the rotating wheel is driven in a circumferential direction, a certain degree of eccentric force is inevitably generated on the rotating wheel, and the circumferential roller mechanisms D122 may be arranged in a non-uniform manner, for example, more circumferential roller mechanisms D122 may be provided on one side remote from the contact point between the rotating wheel drive mechanism D13 and the moisture-absorbing rotating wheel assembly D11 to offset the effect of the eccentric force, and a smaller number of circumferential roller mechanisms D122 may be provided on one side close to the contact point between the rotating wheel drive mechanism D13 and the moisture-absorbing rotating wheel assembly D11. For example, when the rotating wheel drive mechanism D13 interacts with the moisture-absorbing rotating wheel assembly D11 in a gear meshing manner, the gear meshing point is the contact point between the rotating wheel drive mechanism D13 and the moisture-absorbing rotating wheel assembly D11, and in this case, it is advantageous to provide more circumferential roller mechanisms D122 on one side remote from the gear meshing point. For example, when the rotary wheel drive mechanism D13 interacts with the moisture-absorbing rotary wheel assembly D11 in the form of a pulley, the mutual pressing position between the belt in the rotary wheel drive mechanism D13 and the outer edge of the moisture-absorbing rotary wheel assembly D11 becomes the contact point between the rotary wheel drive mechanism D13 and the moisture-absorbing rotary wheel assembly D11, and in this case it is advantageous to provide more circumferential roller mechanisms D122 on one side away from the pressing point.

[0054] In some embodiments, the circumferential roller bracket D1222 is fixed to the wheel housing D12 with the aid of a second fixing mechanism that is configured to adjust the radial distance between the circumferential roller bracket and the moisture-absorbing wheel assembly D11 in the initial mounting position, thereby enabling the circumferential roller mechanism D122 to be adapted to more sizes of moisture-absorbing wheel assemblies D11 and to more operating modes, such as a mode in which the circumferential roller bracket is in contact with the moisture-absorbing wheel assembly D11 in the initial state and a mode in which the circumferential roller mechanism D122 is not in contact with the moisture-absorbing wheel assembly D11 in the initial state.

[0055] FIG. 12 is a schematic diagram of the structure of a circumferential roller. With reference to FIG. 12, the circumferential surface of the circumferential roller D1221 is substantially smooth. In some other embodiments, the circumferential surface of the circumferential roller D1221 has an uneven surface structure. The circumferential roller D1221 includes a circumferential roller body and a circumferential rotation shaft. In some embodiments, the circumferential roller body is rotatable about the circumferential rotation shaft, and therefore, the circumferential rotation shaft and the circumferential roller bracket D122 may be connected, for example, locked, so as not to rotate relative to each other. In some other embodiments, the circumferential roller body is not rotatable relative to the circumferential rotation shaft, and in this case, the circumferential rotation shaft and the circumferential roller bracket D122 must be connected so as to rotate relative to each other. The circumferential roller D1221 includes an inner ring D1221-1, an outer ring D1221-2, and spokes D1221-3 connecting the inner ring D1221-1 and the outer ring D1221-2. The spokes D1221-3 are at least two in number and are configured to be flexibly deformable, and the connecting line formed by the connection between the inner ring D1221-1 and the outer ring D1221-2 does not pass through the rotation axis of the roller, and the inner ring D1221-1 can be understood as the rotation axis or a tube sleeved on the rotation axis. Of course, the spokes D1221-3 may be replaced with a flexible material, such as a foam or silicone ring, and the inner ring D1221-1 may be sleeved with a flexible material, which is then sleeved on the outer ring D1221-2. The outer ring D1221-2 may be configured to be rigid or flexible.

[0056] Figure 13 is an exploded view of the moisture absorbing rotating wheel assembly D11. Referring to Figure 13, the moisture absorbing rotating wheel assembly D11 includes a rotary table D111, an outer peripheral housing member D112, a power input member D114 provided on the outer peripheral edge of the outer peripheral housing member D112, an auxiliary rotating ring D115, and a rotating wheel sealing member D116.

[0057] In some embodiments, the outer peripheral housing member D112 is comprised of an annular outer peripheral upper clamp housing D112U and an outer peripheral lower clamp housing D112L. The outer peripheral upper clamp housing D112U has an L-shaped longitudinal cross section, including radially extending end sections and an axially extending circumferential section. Similarly, the outer peripheral lower clamp housing D112L also has an L-shaped longitudinal cross section, including radially extending end sections and an axially extending circumferential section. The outer peripheral upper clamp housing D112U and the outer peripheral lower clamp housing D112L are engaged with each other by fasteners and engagement grooves provided thereon, thereby forming a single-sided open groove on the inner side of the peripheral region of the rotary table D111. In the locked state, the outer peripheral upper clamp housing D112U and the outer peripheral lower clamp housing D112L surround the entire outer peripheral surface of the rotary table D111 and clamp it from the upper and lower end faces of the peripheral region of the rotary table D111, respectively, thereby connecting the outer peripheral housing member D112 and the rotary table D111 so that they cannot rotate relative to each other.

[0058] In some embodiments, an auxiliary rotating ring D115 is provided on the outer circumferential surface of the outer circumferential upper clamp housing D112U. The auxiliary rotating ring D115 may be integrally molded with the outer circumferential upper clamp housing D112U, or may be manufactured separately and then fixed, for example, by welding or bonding, to the outer circumferential surface of the outer circumferential upper clamp housing D112U. As shown in FIG. 2, the auxiliary rotating ring D115 is disposed corresponding to the position of the circumferential roller mechanism D122, particularly the circumferential roller D1221 thereof, so that it can come into rolling contact with the circumferential roller D1221 in the circumferential rolling mechanism D122. Of course, it may also be considered to provide the auxiliary rotating ring on the outer circumferential lower clamp housing.

[0059] In some embodiments, the auxiliary rotating ring D115 is configured as an annular protrusion, and the degree of protrusion may be such that rolling contact with the circumferential roller D1221 can be ensured even if the circumferential roller is not the most protruding structure on the inner circumferential edge of the rotating ring housing D12. In other embodiments, the auxiliary rotating ring may be configured as the base surface of the outer housing member itself. The circumferential surface of the auxiliary rotating ring may be configured smoothly or may have an uneven surface structure.

[0060] In some embodiments, the outer circumferential surface of the outer peripheral upper clamp housing D112U is further provided with a power input member D114 for introducing power from the rotary wheel drive mechanism D13 to rotate the moisture absorbing rotary wheel assembly D11, and a rotary wheel sealing member D116 for forming a relative rotational contact seal with the rotary wheel housing sealing member D124 provided on the inner circumferential surface of the rotary wheel housing D12. The power input member D114, auxiliary rotary ring D115, and rotary wheel sealing member D116 may be sequentially provided from top to bottom on the outer circumferential surface of the outer peripheral housing member D112, completely offset along the rotation axis. Alternatively, the power input member D114, auxiliary rotary ring D115, and rotary wheel sealing member D116 may be arranged in a different order, offset along the rotation axis. Of course, it is also conceivable that they may be provided on the outer circumferential surface of the outer peripheral lower clamp housing D112L, or distributed on the outer circumferential surfaces of the outer peripheral upper clamp housing D112U and the outer peripheral lower clamp housing D112L. The power input member D114 and the auxiliary rotating member D115 may be integrally formed, or may be formed as separate bodies.

[0061] Fig. 14 is a schematic assembly diagram of the circumferential roller and the auxiliary rotating ring in rolling contact. Referring to Fig. 14, the rotating ring sealing strip D116 forms the maximum diameter of the moisture-absorbing rotating ring assembly D11, and the circumferential roller mechanism D122 protrudes from the entire inner peripheral wall of the inner peripheral edge of the rotating ring housing D12 toward the rotation axis and makes rolling contact with the auxiliary rotating ring D115 of a smaller diameter.

[0062] The auxiliary rotating ring forms the maximum diameter of the moisture-absorbing rotating ring assembly D11. Compared to the circumferential roller mechanism, the ring housing sealing member, which engages with the ring sealing strip, is closer to the rotation axis as part of the inner peripheral surface of the ring housing. The circumferential rollers only need to protrude from the inner peripheral wall at the axial height where they are located. Note that if there is a gap between the circumferential roller mechanism and the auxiliary rotating ring in the initial installation position, the size of the gap must be sufficiently small to ensure that the ring sealing member can rotate relative to the ring housing sealing member when the moisture-absorbing rotating ring assembly D11 is radially offset. That is, the auxiliary rotating ring of the moisture-absorbing rotating ring assembly D11 rolls into contact with the circumferential roller mechanism before the deformation capacity of the ring sealing member is fully consumed, preventing the ring sealing member from getting caught on the ring housing sealing member.

[0063] The drying module can also be applied to various applications requiring dehumidification, such as clothes dryers, dehumidifiers, and dishwashers.

[0064] Although preferred embodiments of the present application have been described, those skilled in the art may change or modify these embodiments once they understand the basic inventive concept. Therefore, it is intended that the appended claims be interpreted to include not only the preferred embodiments but also all changes and modifications that fall within the scope of the present application.

[0065] Obviously, those skilled in the art can make various modifications and variations to the present application without departing from the spirit and scope of the present application. Thus, as long as these modifications and variations of the present application fall within the scope of the claims of the present application and their equivalent technologies, the present application intends to cover these modifications and variations as well.

Claims

1. A drying module including a moisture absorbing and dehumidifying member, The moisture absorbing and dehumidifying member includes a moisture absorbing wheel assembly, a wheel housing, and a wheel drive mechanism used to drive the moisture absorbing wheel assembly to rotate; the moisture absorbing wheel assembly is rotatably mounted in the wheel housing; the moisture-absorbing rotary wheel assembly includes an outer peripheral housing member, and a power input member is provided on an outer peripheral edge of the outer peripheral housing member for introducing power from the rotary wheel drive mechanism to rotate the moisture-absorbing rotary wheel assembly; The power input member is driven at its outer periphery by the rotary wheel drive mechanism.

2. 2. The drying module according to claim 1, wherein cam teeth are provided on the periphery of the power input member, and the rotary wheel drive mechanism engages with the cam teeth to drive the power input member to rotate.

3. The dryer module of claim 2 , wherein the cam teeth are configured as straight teeth, helical teeth, curved teeth, or sprocket teeth having a predetermined tooth shape.

4. 2. The drying module of claim 1, wherein the power input member has a molded groove formed on its periphery, and the rotary wheel drive mechanism engages with the molded groove to drive the power input member to rotate.

5. The drying module according to claim 1 , wherein the power input member has a smooth surface on its periphery, and the rotary wheel drive mechanism drives the power input member to rotate by friction between the power input member and the smooth surface.

6. The dryer module of claim 5 , wherein the smooth surface is provided with a micro-surface structure for increasing friction.

7. The drying module of any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the rotary wheel housing further includes a receiving portion for receiving the rotary wheel drive mechanism.

8. the outer housing member has a pair of end sections extending radially along the outer housing member; At least one bottom roller mechanism is provided on an inner bottom surface of the rotating wheel housing in an area facing an end section of the outer peripheral housing member that faces the inner bottom surface, The drying module of any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein an end section of the outer circumferential housing member facing the inner bottom surface is in rolling contact with the bottom roller mechanism.

9. the bottom roller mechanism includes a bottom roller and a bottom roller bracket; the bottom roller is rotatably mounted on the bottom roller bracket; the bottom roller bracket is mounted to the wheel housing; 9. The drying module of claim 8, wherein the bottom roller is disposed between the moisture-absorbing wheel assembly and the wheel housing, and the distance between the bottom roller and the moisture-absorbing wheel assembly is less than the minimum distance between the moisture-absorbing wheel assembly and the wheel housing.

10. 10. The dryer module of claim 9, wherein in an initial mounted position, the bottom roller mechanism contacts the bottom of the moisture absorbent wheel assembly.

11. 10. The drying module of claim 9, wherein in an initial mounting position, there is a gap between the bottom roller mechanism and the moisture absorbent wheel assembly, and when the moisture absorbent wheel assembly is offset, the moisture absorbent wheel assembly is in rolling contact with the bottom roller mechanism.

12. A drying module described in any one of claims 9 to 11, wherein a plurality of bottom roller mechanisms are provided on the inner bottom surface of the rotating wheel housing, and the plurality of bottom roller mechanisms are distributed on the same circumference on the inner bottom surface of the rotating wheel housing.

13. The drying module according to any one of claims 9 to 11, wherein the bottom roller mechanism is configured to be non-deformable or micro-deformable.

14. The drying module of any one of claims 9 to 11, wherein at least a portion of the bottom roller protrudes from the entire inner bottom surface of the wheel housing toward the moisture-absorbing wheel assembly.

15. 12. The drying module of claim 9, wherein the bottom roller bracket is integrally formed with or connected to the inner bottom surface of the rotating wheel housing, the bottom roller bracket is configured as a hollow member, and the assembled bottom roller is partially housed in the inner cavity of the hollow member.

16. The drying module of any one of claims 9 to 11, wherein the bottom roller bracket is fixed to the rotating wheel housing, and the axial distance between the bottom roller bracket and the moisture-absorbing rotating wheel assembly is adjustable in an initial mounting position.

17. an auxiliary rotating ring is provided on the outer periphery of the outer housing member; The drying module according to any one of claims 1 to 16, wherein the auxiliary rotating ring is positioned offset from the power input member and is in rolling contact with a circumferential roller mechanism provided on the inner peripheral edge of the rotating ring housing.

18. At least one circumferential roller mechanism is provided on the inner periphery of the rotating wheel housing; the circumferential roller mechanism includes a circumferential roller and a circumferential roller bracket; the circumferential roller is rotatably mounted on the circumferential roller bracket, the circumferential roller bracket is provided on the inner circumferential edge of the rotating wheel housing, the circumferential roller is positioned within the axial size range of the moisture-absorbing wheel assembly; the circumferential roller is disposed between the moisture absorbent wheel assembly and the wheel housing; 18. The dryer module of claim 17, wherein the circumferential rollers are in rolling contact with an outer circumferential surface of the absorbent wheel assembly during at least a portion of the rotation of the absorbent wheel assembly.

19. 20. The dryer module of claim 18, wherein in an initial mounted position, the circumferential roller mechanism is in rolling contact with the moisture absorbent wheel assembly without being pressed against each other.

20. 20. The drying module of claim 18, wherein in an initial mounting position, there is a gap between the circumferential roller mechanism and the moisture absorbent wheel assembly, and when the moisture absorbent wheel assembly is offset, the moisture absorbent wheel assembly is in rolling contact with the circumferential roller mechanism.

21. The drying module according to any one of claims 18 to 20, wherein the circumferential rollers are configured to be flexible and deformable, and / or the circumferential roller brackets are configured to be offsettable.

22. 22. The drying module of claim 21, wherein the circumferential roller includes an inner ring, an outer ring, and spokes connecting the inner ring and the outer ring, the spokes having at least two spokes and being flexible and deformable.

23. 22. The drying module of claim 21, wherein the circumferential roller bracket is configured to be elastically deformable and / or the circumferential roller bracket is configured to be movable integrally so as to change the distance from the rotation axis, and the circumferential roller bracket is capable of returning to its initial position under the action of an elastic force.

24. 21. The drying module of claim 18, wherein when the moisture absorbent wheel assembly is driven by the wheel drive mechanism at its outer periphery, a plurality of circumferential roller mechanisms are unevenly arranged on the inner periphery of the wheel housing, with more circumferential roller mechanisms provided on one side away from the contact point between the wheel drive mechanism and the moisture absorbent wheel assembly.

25. The drying module of any one of claims 18 to 20, wherein the moisture-absorbing rotating wheel assembly includes an outer peripheral housing member, and an auxiliary rotating ring is provided on the outer peripheral surface of the outer peripheral housing member for rolling contact with the circumferential roller mechanism, and the auxiliary rotating ring is configured as an annular protrusion.

26. The drying module according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the circumferential roller bracket is fixed to the rotating wheel housing, and the radial distance between the circumferential roller bracket and the moisture-absorbing rotating wheel assembly is adjustable in an initial mounting position.

27. A washing and drying combination washing machine comprising the drying module according to any one of claims 1 to 26.

Citation Information

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