Filter device, and dryer equipped with a filter device

Abstract

This disclosure provides a filter device that suppresses the generation of foreign matter that is scraped off and broken into smaller pieces at the edges of the mesh portion of the filter device, and prevents the broken-down foreign matter from passing through the holes in the mesh portion, that is, suppresses a decrease in the foreign matter collection rate, and a dryer equipped with the filter device. [Solution] The filter device 16, provided in a flow path through which a fluid containing foreign matter passes, comprises a case 16a that forms part of the flow path, and a cylindrical or arc-shaped mesh portion 17 disposed within the case 16a to capture foreign matter. The filter device 16 is configured to separate foreign matter from the mesh portion 17 by generating a swirling flow of fluid in the space including the inside of the arc of the mesh portion 17. The filter device 16 is provided within the case 16a as a cutting flow reduction portion, which reduces the generation of a cutting flow that is different from the swirling flow and cuts off foreign matter with the edges of the mesh portion 17.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a filter device for collecting foreign matters contained in a fluid flowing through a flow path, and a dryer equipped with the filter device.

Background Art

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a clothes dryer provided with a filter section for collecting foreign matters such as lint. The filter section includes an air introduction section, a filter case, a mesh section, and a dust collection section. The filter case includes the mesh section and has a filter section outlet connected to the downstream circulation air path. The mesh section is formed in a frustum-shaped cylindrical shape with the inner diameter of the upstream opening larger than the inner diameter of the downstream opening, and is provided so that the drying air flowing in from the air introduction section passes from the inside to the outside inside the filter case. The dust collection section is connected so that the downstream opening communicates, and the inner diameter of the bottom surface is formed larger than the inner diameter of the dust collection opening.

[0003] Thereby, in the filter section for collecting foreign matters generated during drying, it is possible to suppress a decrease in the air volume due to the deposition of foreign matters on the mesh section, and to suppress a decrease in drying efficiency.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] In the filter section of Patent Document 1, a swirling flow is constantly generated in the mesh section that captures foreign matter. The direction of the swirling flow is perpendicular to the central axis direction of the cylindrical mesh section, which can suppress foreign matter from returning to and adhering to the mesh section. On the other hand, if a flow other than the central axis direction of the mesh section exists inside the filter, it is conceivable that this flow will cause the foreign matter to continue rotating for a long time, and the foreign matter will be scraped and broken down at the edges of the mesh section. As a result, the finely broken foreign matter may pass through the pores of the mesh section, meaning that the foreign matter collection efficiency may decrease.

[0006] This disclosure provides a filter device that suppresses the generation of foreign matter that is scraped off and made into fine particles at the edges of the mesh portion, thereby suppressing a decrease in the collection rate of foreign matter, and a dryer equipped with the filter device. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] This disclosure relates to a filter device provided in a flow path through which a fluid containing foreign matter passes, comprising a case that forms part of the flow path, and a cylindrical or arc-shaped mesh portion disposed within the case for capturing foreign matter. The filter device is configured to separate foreign matter from the mesh portion by generating a swirling flow of fluid in the space including the inside of the arc of the mesh portion. The filter device is provided within the case with a cutting flow reduction portion that reduces the generation of a cutting flow, which is a different flow from the swirling flow and cuts the foreign matter with the edges of the mesh portion.

[0008] Furthermore, this disclosure relates to a dryer equipped with the above-described filter device, the dryer comprising a housing, a housing section provided inside the housing for housing an object to be dried, a blower for generating a flow of air which is a fluid when drying the object to be dried, and a flow path connected to the housing section and the filter device so that air circulates via the blower, wherein foreign matter contained in the air is collected by the filter device. [Effects of the Invention]

[0009] The filter device and the dryer equipped with the filter device of this disclosure are equipped with a cutting flow reduction unit within the case to reduce the generation of cutting flow, thereby reducing cutting flow. As a result, the generation of foreign matter that is finely ground off at the edges of the mesh by the cutting flow can be suppressed, and a decrease in the collection rate of foreign matter can be suppressed. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0010] [Figure 1] Perspective view of a washing machine and dryer in Embodiment 1 [Figure 2] Side cross-sectional view of a washing machine and dryer in Embodiment 1 [Figure 3] Perspective view of the filter device in Embodiment 1 [Figure 4] Perspective view of the filter device in Embodiment 1 with the mesh section and other components removed. [Figure 5] Schematic cross-sectional view of the filter device in the first embodiment during collection mode. [Figure 6] Figure 5 shows a cross-sectional view of the filter device along the line X1-X1. [Figure 7] Another schematic cross-sectional view of the filter device in the first embodiment during collection mode. [Figure 8] Schematic cross-sectional view of the filter device during desorption mode execution in Embodiment 1 [Figure 9] Figure 8 shows a cross-sectional view of the filter device along the line Y1-Y1. [Figure 10] Another schematic cross-sectional view of the filter device during desorption mode execution in Embodiment 1 [Figure 11] Another Y1-Y1 cross-sectional view of the filter device during desorption mode execution in Embodiment 1. [Figure 12] Flowchart showing the timing of the desorption mode execution during operation of the washing machine and dryer in Embodiment 1. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0011] (Knowledge and other information that formed the basis of this disclosure) When the inventors came up with the present disclosure, the filter device of a clothes dryer required the user to perform maintenance such that the user checked the accumulation state of foreign matter and discarded it as appropriate when foreign matter had accumulated. Therefore, in this industry, for example, as an issue of suppressing a decrease in drying efficiency due to a decrease in the circulation amount of drying air due to the accumulation of foreign matter, a technique of collecting deposits by the filter device itself and reducing the labor of the user is disclosed in Patent Document 1.

[0012] However, in the configuration of Patent Document 1, a swirling flow is always generated in the mesh portion that captures foreign matter in the filter portion. If foreign matter continues to rotate in the mesh portion for a long time due to this swirling flow, the foreign matter is scraped at the edge of the mesh portion and becomes fine. As a result, there was a possibility that the fine foreign matter would pass through the holes in the mesh portion, that is, the collection rate would decrease. In order to solve these problems, the inventors arrived at the configuration of the filter device constituting the subject of the present disclosure and a dryer equipped with the filter device.

[0013] Therefore, the present disclosure is a filter device provided in a flow path through which a fluid containing foreign matter passes, including a case that forms a part of the flow path, and a cylindrical or arc-shaped mesh portion disposed in the case for capturing foreign matter. The filter device is configured to peel off foreign matter from the mesh portion by generating a swirling flow of the fluid in the space including the inner side of the arc of the mesh portion. The filter device includes a cutting flow reduction portion provided in the case that reduces the generation of a cutting flow, which is a flow different from the swirling flow and that scrapes foreign matter by the edge of the mesh portion.

[0014] In addition, the present disclosure is a dryer equipped with the above filter device, the dryer including a housing, a housing portion provided inside the housing for accommodating an object to be dried, a blower device that generates a flow of air, which is a fluid, when drying the object to be dried, a flow path including the housing portion and the filter device and connected so that air circulates by the blower device, and collecting foreign matter contained in the air with the filter device thereby.

[0015] By providing a cutting flow reduction unit that reduces the cutting flow, which is an unnecessary flow when capturing foreign matter in the mesh portion, it is possible to reduce the amount of foreign matter passing through the mesh portion, and to provide a filter device, and a dryer in which problems caused by foreign matter passing through the mesh portion are unlikely to occur.

[0016] Hereinafter, embodiments will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. However, detailed descriptions may be omitted more than necessary. For example, detailed descriptions of well-known matters or duplicate descriptions of substantially the same configurations may be omitted.

[0017] Note that the accompanying drawings and the following description are provided for those skilled in the art to fully understand the present disclosure, and are not intended to limit the subject matter described in the claims.

[0018] (Embodiment 1) Hereinafter, Embodiment 1 will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 12.

[0019] [1-1. Configuration of Washing and Drying Machine] As an example of the filter device and the dryer including the filter device of the present disclosure, an example of a drum-type washing and drying machine having washing and drying functions will be described. The drum-type washing and drying machine collects and separates foreign matters such as lint and thread waste generated from clothes during the drying operation as a dryer and contained in the drying air by the filter device. In the present embodiment, the fluid is exemplified as air or drying air, the flow path is exemplified as an air duct or a circulating air duct, the housing portion is exemplified as a rotating drum, and the foreign matter is exemplified as lint such as lint and thread waste.

[0020] Note that, as an example of the dryer in the present disclosure, a drum-type washing and drying machine is described, but a washing and drying machine or a dryer other than the drum type may be used. The dryer in the present disclosure may be applied to, for example, a vertical washing and drying machine. Further, the object to be dried in the present disclosure may be other than clothes.

[0021] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a washing machine 100 according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention. The washing machine 100 has a door 6 on the front of the housing 1 through which clothes are loaded and unloaded. In addition, a detergent dispenser (not shown) for holding detergent and fabric softener, and a filter device 16 are arranged to be accessible from the top of the washing machine 100.

[0022] Figure 2 is a side cross-sectional view of a washing machine 100 according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention. The left side is the front side of the washing machine 100, and the right side is the rear side of the washing machine 100. Inside the housing 1, the outer tub 3 is supported by a suspension device 2. A bottomed cylindrical rotating drum 4 is arranged inside the outer tub 3 with its axial direction inclined downward from the front side to the rear side. A clothing inlet / outlet 5 is formed on the front side of the outer tub 3, leading to the open end of the rotating drum 4. A door 6 is provided so as to be able to open and close the opening formed on the front side of the housing 1. By opening and closing the door 6, the user can put clothes in and take them out of the rotating drum 4 through the clothing inlet / outlet 5.

[0023] The rotating drum 4 has numerous through-holes (not shown) on its cylindrical surface that lead into the outer tank 3. Additionally, stirring protrusions 7 are provided at multiple positions on the inner surface of the cylinder. This rotating drum 4 is driven to rotate in both forward and reverse directions by a motor 8 mounted on the rear side of the outer tank 3. The outer tank 3 is connected to a water supply path (not shown) with a water supply valve, and a drainage path 103 with a drain valve 101 and a trap 102. By controlling these functions, water is supplied to the outer tank 3 and drained to the outside of the outer tank 3, respectively.

[0024] To dry the clothes contained in the rotating drum 4, an air passage (circulating air passage 9) is formed to allow air (drying air) to circulate. Along this circulating air passage 9, a filter device 16 for collecting foreign matter such as lint, a heat exchanger 10 which is a heating unit, a heat absorber 11 which is a dehumidifying unit, and a blower device 12 including a blower fan and fan motor are arranged. When the blower device 12 is driven, the air in the outer tub 3 is circulated through the circulating air passage 9, foreign matter is removed by the filter device 16, then it is dehumidified by the heat absorber 11, heated by the heat exchanger 10, and then blown back into the outer tub 3 and the rotating drum 4. In other words, the drying air repeats the circulation shown by arrow W in Figure 2. This dries the clothes contained in the rotating drum 4.

[0025] Specifically, the drying air heated by the heat exchanger 10 is blown by the blower 12 through the air outlet 13 into the rotating drum 4 where the clothes are placed. The drying air then absorbs moisture from the clothes and flows out of the exhaust port 14 in a humid state. The humid drying air flowing out of the exhaust port 14 is cooled and dehumidified by the heat absorber 11. It is then heated by the heat exchanger 10 to become high-temperature dry air, which is then blown back into the rotating drum 4 by the blower 12.

[0026] The heat pump system consists of a compressor (not shown) that compresses the refrigerant, a heat exchanger 10 that releases heat from the high-temperature, high-pressure refrigerant after compression, a throttling mechanism (not shown) that reduces the pressure of the high-pressure refrigerant to maintain the refrigerant pressure difference, a heat absorber 11 that absorbs heat from the surroundings as the refrigerant becomes low-pressure after being reduced, and pipelines that connect these components so that the refrigerant circulates.

[0027] The filter device 16 is located upstream of the drying airflow from the radiator 10, the heat absorber 11, and the blower 12, and is positioned between the outer tank 3 and the heat absorber 11.

[0028] Figure 3 is a perspective view of the filter device. The filter device 16 includes a case 16a, an outlet 16c, a cylindrical mesh section 17 disposed inside the case 16a for capturing foreign matter, an air introduction section 18, and an inlet 18a. The filter device 16 also includes a second mesh section 80, as will be described later.

[0029] Furthermore, the filter device 16 is provided with a lid 16b on its top surface. The lid 16b is configured to be openable and closable so that the user can discharge the foreign matter collected during the drying operation. The lid 16b may be made of a transparent material. This allows the user to visually inspect the foreign matter inside the filter device 16. The lid 16b may also be configured to protrude from the top surface of the housing 1 in a shape that has space inside. This allows the filter device 16 to collect more foreign matter, and the user can easily visually confirm that foreign matter has been collected. The detailed configuration of the inside of the filter device 16 will be described later.

[0030] Furthermore, a control unit 110 that performs various operations as a washing machine / dryer 100 is installed in the space above the washing machine / dryer 100.

[0031] [1-2. Operation and Function of Washer-Dryers] The operation and function of the washer-dryer 100, configured as described above, will now be explained. The user opens the door 6, puts clothes and detergent into the rotating drum 4, sets the washing and drying operation using the control unit (not shown), and starts the washer-dryer 100. As a result, the control unit 110 starts with the washing operation, and the washing process begins. The washer-dryer 100 receives a predetermined amount of water from the water supply path into the outer tub 3 via the water supply valve. Then, the motor 8... The rotating drum 4 is driven to rotate. As the rotating drum 4 rotates, the clothes contained inside the rotating drum 4 are lifted in the rotational direction by the agitation protrusions 7 provided on the inner circumferential wall of the rotating drum 4, and the clothes are repeatedly agitated as they fall from an appropriate height. In this way, the clothes are washed by a beating action.

[0032] After the predetermined washing time, the soiled laundry water is discharged through the drainage path 103. Then, the laundry water contained in the clothes is removed by a spin-drying operation in which the rotating drum 4 is rotated at high speed. After that, a rinsing process is performed, and water is supplied to the outer tub 3 from the water supply path. In the rinsing process, the washer-dryer 100 performs a rinsing wash by repeatedly agitating the clothes contained in the rotating drum 4, just as in the washing process. Then, the water contained in the clothes is removed by a spin-drying operation in which the rotating drum 4 is rotated at high speed again, and the washing operation ends.

[0033] When the washing cycle is finished, the control unit 110 executes a drying cycle. During the drying cycle, the rotating drum 4 rotates at a low speed, and the blower 12 drives high-temperature drying air, dried by the heat pump device, into the rotating drum 4 from the circulating air passage 9.

[0034] During the drying operation, foreign matter generated from the clothing circulates in the drying air through the circulation air passage 9. This foreign matter is collected by the filter device 16. The filter device 16 is located upstream of the radiator 10 and other components, between the exhaust port 14 of the outer tank 3 and the heat absorber 11. As a result, foreign matter is removed before reaching the heat absorber 11, preventing it from adhering to the heat absorber 11, radiator 10, and blower 12. This allows the heat absorber 11, radiator 10, and blower 12 to maintain their respective functions.

[0035] [1-3. Filter System Configuration] The configuration of the filter device 16 of the washing machine 100 in this embodiment will be explained below with reference to Figure 3.

[0036] The air intake section 18 has a width and height approximately half that of the case 16a and is formed to be inserted into the lower half of the case 16a. A mesh section 17 is assembled above the air intake section 18 within the case 16a, and the case 16a and the mesh section 17 are configured to form an air passage space around the entire perimeter of the mesh section 17. The lid 16b is provided above the mesh section 17, protruding from the case 16a and having a cylindrical space.

[0037] The air intake section 18 includes an inlet 18a. The inlet 18a is connected to a circulating air passage 9 from an exhaust port 14, which is upstream in the flow of drying air. The case 16a includes an outlet 16c. The outlet 16c is connected to a downstream circulating air passage 9. As a result, an air passage is formed from the air intake section 18 through the mesh section 17 to the case 16a, and this is configured as part of the circulating air passage 9.

[0038] The cylindrical portion 70a, the mesh portion 17, and the lid 16b are configured as part of the case 16a, but they may also be configured to be detachable from the case 16a. For the latter, for example, as shown in Figure 4, the cylindrical portion 70a, the mesh portion 17, and the lid 16b can be configured as a single unit and detachable from the case 16a. The user can pull the mesh portion 17 and the cylindrical portion 70a out of the housing 1 of the washing machine 100 by holding the lid 16b, remove the lid 16b, and easily dispose of any foreign matter accumulated in the mesh portion 17 and the second mesh portion 80 described later.

[0039] Furthermore, the mesh section 17 includes a mesh 17a made of metal or resin, etc., having multiple micropores on the conical surface of the frame 17c. The density of the multiple micropores is set to an extent that prevents foreign matter contained in the drying air from passing through while not creating excessive air resistance. In this type of washing and drying machine, for example, a thin stainless steel sheet is formed with circular micropores with a diameter of 50 mesh to 200 mesh. The material is not limited to stainless steel, even if it is made of metal, and if it is made of resin, a mesh cloth such as polyester may also be used.

[0040] Here, a schematic cross-sectional view of the filter device 16 is shown in Figure 5. Furthermore, a cross-sectional view of the filter device 16 along the line X1-X1 in Figure 5 is shown in Figure 6.

[0041] The filter device 16 includes a fluid switching section 70 within the air inlet section 18. The fluid switching section 70 includes a flat plate-shaped shutter 71 and a rotating shaft 72, and a shutter motor 73 which acts as a drive unit for rotating the shutter 71.

[0042] The fluid switching unit 70 allows the filter device 16 to be switched between the following two configurations by changing the shape of the air passage depending on the position of the shutter 71. Specifically, a configuration in which the airflow substantially flows along the air passage and passes through the mesh section 17 and the second mesh section 80 described later (in this embodiment, this configuration is called the collection mode), and a configuration in which the air flows unevenly through the opening 70b (Figure 6) into the cylindrical section 70a, becoming a swirling flow in the space including the cylindrical section 70a, the mesh section 17 and the lid 16b, and passing through the mesh section 17 (in this embodiment, this configuration is called the desorption mode). Details of the changes in the shape of the air passage will be described later.

[0043] The configuration of the filter device 16 will be explained using Figures 5 and 6. Figures 5 and 6 show the state in collection mode.

[0044] The case 16a and the air inlet 18 are positioned such that the cylindrical centerline A1 (Figure 5) of the mesh section 17 is approximately perpendicular to the width centerline B1 (Figure 6) of the inlet 18a and outlet 16c. The lid 16b, the mesh section 17, and the fluid switching section 70 are configured such that their respective centerlines substantially coincide with the cylindrical centerline A1.

[0045] The mesh portion 17 is formed in a hollow frustoconical cylindrical shape, where the inner diameter D1 on the upstream side (lower side in Figure 5) is smaller than the inner diameter D2 on the downstream side (upper side in Figure 5). In other words, the inner diameter D2 on the lid 16b side of the mesh portion 17 is larger than the inner diameter D1 on the upstream side.

[0046] The frustoconical cylindrical mesh portion 17 does not have to be a perfect frustoconical shape; it may be distorted, partially missing, or partially flat. Furthermore, the mesh portion 17 does not need to be present around the entire circumference of the frustoconical shape; it may be an arc shape covering only a portion of the conical side. The cylindrical or arc shape described in this embodiment only needs to be substantially cylindrical in a manner that does not hinder the generation of swirling flow, and includes polygonal cylindrical shapes.

[0047] Furthermore, the filter device 16 may have a second mesh section 80 provided therein, through which a second mesh 80a similar to the mesh 17a is provided, by penetrating a part of the wall surface of the cylindrical section 70a, which is upstream of the mesh 17a. If the cylindrical section 70a, mesh section 17, and lid 16b are configured to be detachable from the case 16a as shown in Figure 4, then a through-hole section 80b is provided in the wall surface of the case 16a at a position opposite to the second mesh section 80. The density of the multiple fine pores in the second mesh section 80 and the through-hole section 80b is set to an extent that prevents foreign matter contained in the drying air from passing through while not creating excessive air resistance.

[0048] With this configuration, as will be described later, the air flowing in from the inlet 18a passes through the second mesh section 80 and the through-hole section 80b and flows smoothly to the outlet 16c, thereby reducing the strength of the vertical rotation cutting flow. Therefore, it is possible to reduce the outflow of fine foreign matter caused by the cutting flow from the outlet 16c. In other words, the foreign matter capture by the filter device 16 This can suppress the decline in collection efficiency.

[0049] Furthermore, by providing the second mesh section 80, the cutting flow, which is an unnecessary flow, can be reduced, and the pressure loss of the airflow inside the case 16a can be reduced. Therefore, when the filter device 16 is used in the washing machine 100, the drying airflow can be increased and drying performance can be improved without increasing the airflow of the blower 12. In addition, since the filter device 16 can reduce the pressure loss of the airflow, the burden on the blower 12 that circulates the drying air can be reduced.

[0050] Furthermore, the diameter D3 of the cylindrical portion 70a (Figure 6) is configured to be larger than the inner diameter D2 of the mesh portion 17 on the cylindrical portion 70a side, and a stepped portion 81 (Figure 7), which acts as flow resistance for the cutting flow, is provided between the cylindrical portion 70a and the mesh portion 17. Note that the installation position of the stepped portion 81 is not limited to this, as long as it acts as flow resistance for the cutting flow C4. For example, the stepped portion 81 may be provided on the cylindrical portion 70a. Alternatively, the stepped portion 81 may be provided on the mesh portion 17.

[0051] Furthermore, a second stepped portion 82b is provided between the bottom surface 82a of the cylindrical portion 70a and the bottom surface 18c of the air introduction portion 18, thereby providing a dispersion space 82 for dispersing the cutting flow.

[0052] [1-4. Operation and Function of Filter Devices] The operation and function of the filter device 16 configured as described above, when installed in a washing machine / dryer 100 and used in a drying operation, will now be explained. The filter device 16 has a collection mode in which it captures foreign matter contained in the drying air with the mesh section 17, and a detachment mode in which it separates the foreign matter captured by the mesh section 17 from the mesh section 17 and accumulates it by generating a swirling flow of drying air in the cylindrical section 70a. The control unit 110 of the washing machine / dryer 100 switches between these two modes.

[0053] [1-4-1. When executing collection mode] Schematic cross-sectional views of the filter device 16 when the collection mode is in operation are shown in Figures 5 and 7. Furthermore, a cross-sectional view of the filter device 16 from X1-X1 in Figure 5 is shown in Figure 6.

[0054] In collection mode, the drying air (sometimes simply referred to as air) blown from the exhaust port 14 of the outer tub 3 of the washing machine 100 through the upstream circulating air passage 9 flows into the filter device 16 through the inlet 18a.

[0055] The flow of air inside the filter device 16 in collection mode is schematically shown. Arrow C1 indicates the flow of air entering from the inlet 18a, passing through the second mesh section 80 and the through-holes 80b provided in the case 16a, and exiting from the outlet 16c. Arrow C2 indicates the flow of air entering from the inlet 18a, passing through the mesh section 17 on the outlet 16c side, and exiting from the outlet 16c. Arrow C3 indicates the flow of air entering from the inlet 18a, passing through the mesh section 17 on the opposite side of the outlet 16c, and exiting from the outlet 16c.

[0056] Note that arrows C1, C2, and C3 shown in Figures 5 and 6 are examples only, and the actual airflow passes through the entire mesh section 17 and the second mesh section 80. In all flows, the airflow immediately before passing through the mesh section 17 and the second mesh section 80 basically flows along the airflow path without swirling. The actual airflow is not as simple as schematically shown, but exhibits a complex appearance including twists, turns, and loops throughout the entire airflow path.

[0057] The "flow substantially along the airflow path" described here refers to a flow in which foreign matter is filtered out by the mesh section 17 and the second mesh section 80, and is distinguished from a flow in which foreign matter is detached from the mesh section 17 and the second mesh section 80, as in the desorption mode described later.

[0058] During drying operation, as shown in Figures 5 and 6, the shutter 71 is held by the shutter motor 73 in a position approximately parallel to the sides 18d and 18e of the air intake section 18, ensuring a wide air passage and preventing obstruction of airflow. Therefore, when there is little foreign matter flowing in from the inlet 18a, the air flows out from the outlet 16c, mainly passing through the second mesh section 80 and the through-hole section 80b, as indicated by arrow C1. In this case, the foreign matter is filtered and separated by the second mesh 80a, and only air free of foreign matter flows out from the outlet 16c.

[0059] Here, let's consider the case where the filter device 16 does not have a second mesh section 80 and a second mesh 80a. Let's assume that a strong vertical rotation cutting flow is generated, as shown by arrow C4 in Figure 7, which flows from the bottom surface 82a side, through the mesh section 17 side on the outlet 16c side, the lid 16b side, the mesh section 17 side on the inlet 18a side, and back to the bottom surface 82a side. If the foreign matter continues to rotate due to this cutting flow, it will move by rubbing against the mesh 17a due to centrifugal force, and it is conceivable that it will be shaved down into smaller pieces by the edges of the mesh holes. If this is repeated for a long time and the foreign matter becomes smaller than the diameter of the mesh holes in the mesh 17a, there is a possibility that the foreign matter will pass through the mesh 17a and flow out from the outlet 16c. Note that arrow C4 in Figure 7 is just an example, and the actual airflow passes through the entire cylindrical section 70a and the mesh section 17.

[0060] Therefore, in this embodiment, the filter device 16 is equipped with a cutting flow reduction unit to reduce the strength of the cutting flow that is unnecessary for collecting foreign matter. The cutting flow reduction unit suppresses foreign matter that is shaved off and made finer by the edges of the mesh unit 17, which occurs when foreign matter rotates inside the filter device 16 for a long time due to the cutting flow. As a result, it is possible to reduce the amount of fine foreign matter that passes through the holes of the mesh unit 17, that is, to suppress a decrease in the collection rate. In addition, by reducing the cutting flow, which is an unnecessary flow, the pressure loss of the filter device 16 can be reduced.

[0061] For example, the cutting flow reduction section is the second mesh section 80 and the second mesh 80a. By providing the second mesh section 80 and the second mesh 80a on a part of the wall surface of the cylindrical section 70a, as shown by arrow C1, the air flowing in from the inlet 18a passes through the second mesh section 80 and the second mesh 80a and flows smoothly to the outlet 16c. As a result, the strength of the vertically rotating cutting flow shown by arrow C4 can be reduced, and the generation of fine foreign matter caused by the vertically rotating cutting flow and its outflow from the outlet 16c can be suppressed.

[0062] Furthermore, the flow indicated by arrow C1, created by providing the second mesh section 80, is simpler and therefore has less pressure loss compared to the flows indicated by arrows C2 and C3. As a result, the washing machine / dryer 100 equipped with the filter device 16 can increase the drying airflow and improve drying performance without increasing the airflow of the blower 12. In addition, since the filter device 16 can reduce pressure loss in the airflow, it can reduce the burden on the blower 12 of the washing machine / dryer 100 that circulates the drying air.

[0063] Furthermore, when there is a large amount of foreign matter flowing in from the inlet 18a, the foreign matter filtered and separated by the flow indicated by arrow C1 adheres to the second mesh 80a, resulting in a pressure loss, and the amount of air passing through the mesh section 17 on the outlet 16c side, indicated by arrow C2, increases. If the amount of foreign matter flowing in from the inlet 18a increases further, the amount of air passing through the mesh section 17 on the outlet 16c side, indicated by arrow C3, will increase. In this way, fluids such as air flow in the direction of least pressure loss, so for example, if the foreign matter is not captured by the second mesh 80a, the foreign matter will mainly pass through the second mesh section 80, where there is less resistance to the airflow, as indicated by arrow C1.

[0064] As foreign matter is captured in the second mesh section 80, the resistance to airflow increases, and as indicated by arrows C2 and C3, the foreign matter is captured in the mesh section 1 where the resistance to airflow is small. The proportion of air passing through 7 increases. In other words, the resistance to airflow changes depending on the amount of foreign matter adhering to the mesh section 17 and the second mesh section 80. When the foreign matter is uniformly adhering to the mesh section 17 and the second mesh section 80, the air passes through the entire mesh section 17 and the second mesh section 80.

[0065] Furthermore, the flows indicated by arrows C2 and C3 can be one of the causes of the vertical rotation cutting flow indicated by arrow C4. Therefore, in this embodiment, as a cutting flow reduction section to reduce the vertical rotation cutting flow, a stepped section 81, which acts as flow resistance for the cutting flow, may be provided within the cylindrical section 70a, as shown in Figure 5, in addition to the second mesh section 80 and the second mesh 80a described above.

[0066] With this configuration, a portion of the air flowing in from the inlet 18a is obstructed by the stepped portion 81, thereby reducing the strength of the vertically rotating cutting flow. Consequently, the outflow of fine foreign matter caused by the cutting flow from the outlet 16c can be reduced. In other words, a decrease in the foreign matter collection efficiency of the filter device 16 can be suppressed.

[0067] Furthermore, in this embodiment, as a cutting flow reduction section to reduce the vertical rotation cutting flow, a dispersion space 82 may be provided in the filter device 16, as shown in Figure 5, in addition to the second mesh section 80, the second mesh 80a, and the stepped section 81 described above. As a result, a portion of the air flowing in from the inlet 18a flows into the dispersion space 82 provided on the upstream side of the mesh section 17, as shown by arrow C5 (Figure 5), making it possible to reduce the force of the airflow passing through the mesh section 17 side, as shown by arrows C2 and C3. As a result, the strength of the vertical rotation cutting flow shown by arrow C4 can be reduced, and the generation of fine foreign matter caused by the cutting flow and its outflow from the outlet 16c can be suppressed.

[0068] Furthermore, in collection mode, if the air flows from the air inlet 18 to the fluid switching section 70 and is biased to either the left or right, a lateral rotating cutting flow (not shown) may be generated around the cylindrical centerline A1 in the fluid switching section 70. In this case, similar to the outflow of foreign matter caused by the vertical rotating cutting flow described above, the foreign matter moves by rubbing against the mesh 17a and the second mesh 80a due to centrifugal force, and may be scraped off by the edges of the mesh holes, becoming fine foreign matter that flows out from the outlet 16c. In addition, the rotation of the lateral rotating cutting flow causes the air to rotate inside the cylindrical section 70a, making it difficult for it to pass through the mesh section 17, which may increase pressure loss.

[0069] Therefore, in this embodiment, as a cutting flow reduction unit that reduces lateral rotation cutting flow, the filter device 16 may be configured such that the width center line B of the air inlet 18 intersects the cylindrical center line A1 at one point, as shown in Figure 6. This causes the air inflow from the air inlet 18 to flow almost equally from left to right within the cylindrical section 70a. In other words, it is possible to suppress the uneven inflow of air from the air inlet 18 into the cylindrical section 70a and reduce the strength of the lateral rotation cutting flow. As a result, it is possible to suppress the generation of fine foreign matter caused by the cutting flow and its outflow from the outlet 16c. Furthermore, the filter device 16 can suppress the lateral rotation cutting flow and reduce the increase in pressure loss due to the cutting flow.

[0070] As described above, in collection mode, the filter device 16 captures foreign matter contained in the drying air with the mesh section 17 and the second mesh section 80. The captured foreign matter gradually accumulates on the mesh section 17 and the second mesh section 80 and spreads over the entire mesh section 17 and the second mesh section 80.

[0071] Furthermore, while foreign matter captured and accumulated in the mesh section 17 and the second mesh section 80 can cause increased pressure loss, it also acts as a mesh, providing a filtration effect and maintaining the collection efficiency of the filter device 16.

[0072] [1-4-2. When Deactivation Mode is Executed] Schematic cross-sectional views of the filter device 16 during desorption mode are shown in Figures 8 and 10. Additionally, cross-sectional views of the filter device 16 along the Y1-Y1 line are shown in Figures 9 and 11.

[0073] After completing the drying operation described above, the washing machine 100 performs a deactivation mode for the filter device 16. Details of when the washing machine 100 performs the deactivation mode will be described later, but for example, it may be equipped with a detection unit (not shown) that detects the pressure loss in the air passage, and if this detection unit detects an increase in the pressure loss of the filter device 16 that exceeds a predetermined value, the deactivation mode may be performed.

[0074] In the collection mode, foreign matter accumulated on the mesh section 17 and the second mesh section 80 is detached from the mesh 17a and the second mesh 80a and accumulated in clumps when the detachment mode is executed. As a result, the air resistance caused by the foreign matter is eliminated, and the mesh section 17 and the second mesh section 80 are restored to their original state with low pressure loss. This allows the washing and drying machine 100 to efficiently continue the next drying operation.

[0075] Specifically, as shown in Figures 8 and 9, in the fluid switching section 70, the shutter 71 rotates around the rotation axis 72 by the drive of the shutter motor 73, changing its position to significantly close the opening of the air passage of the air intake section 18. At this time, as shown in Figure 9, one side 18d of the air intake section 18 is closed, and an opening 70b is provided only on the other side 18e, thereby effectively directing the air into the cylindrical section 70a. Furthermore, by tilting and holding the shutter 71 toward the opening 70b, the air from the inlet 18a is made more likely to flow toward the opening 70b.

[0076] The airflow within the filter device 16 in desorption mode is schematically shown. Arrow C6 indicates the flow of air entering from the inlet 18a, entering the cylindrical section 70a from the opening 70b, rising while swirling, passing through the mesh section 17, and exiting from the outlet 16c. Note that arrow C6 shown in Figures 8 and 9 is an example, and the actual airflow passes through the entire mesh section 17 and the second mesh section 80.

[0077] The air flowing in from the inlet 18a of the air intake section 18 flows through the opening 70b via the shutter 71, as indicated by arrow C6, and is biased into the cylindrical section 70a. In this way, the air flows into the interior of the cylindrical section 70a biased towards the side 18e on the opening 70b side of the air passage. A swirling flow is then generated along the inner surface of the cylindrical section 70a.

[0078] The swirling airflow generated in the fluid switching section 70 rises up the cylindrical section 70a and the mesh section 17 while swirling, as indicated by arrow C6. Since the mesh section 17 is also arc-shaped, the swirling flow remains stable inside the mesh section 17. This swirling flow detaches foreign matter accumulated on the inner surfaces of the mesh section 17 and the second mesh section 80. Furthermore, if the swirling force of the swirling flow is sufficiently strong, in addition to this air force, the detached foreign matter comes into contact with and entangles with the foreign matter accumulated on the inner surfaces of the mesh section 17 and the second mesh section 80, becoming integrated and larger, and in this state, the swirling force makes it possible to peel off the accumulated foreign matter. As a result, foreign matter accumulated on the inner surfaces of the mesh section 17 and the second mesh section 80 can be effectively detached from the inner surfaces of the mesh section 17 and the second mesh section 80.

[0079] The detached foreign matter then forms one or more clumps and is pressed and accumulated towards the lid 16b side, which is the downstream side of the airflow. In this embodiment, the inner diameter D2 of the mesh portion 17 on the downstream side, the lid 16b, is larger than the inner diameter D on the upstream side, so centrifugal force is also applied to the foreign matter, causing it to move towards the lid 16b side. Therefore, the filter device 16 in this embodiment can easily move the foreign matter toward the lid 16b, that is, toward the outer casing of the housing 1, by the airflow. This prevents excessive accumulation of foreign matter in the mesh section 17 and the second mesh section 80, which can reduce drying performance due to increased pressure loss and other factors.

[0080] Here, as shown by arrow C7 in Figure 10, we assume that the component of the swirling flow indicated by arrow C6 in the direction of the lid 16b along the cylindrical centerline A1 is large, that is, the pitch of the swirling flow is large. If the swirling flow of air generated in the fluid switching section 70 cannot swirl sufficiently within the mesh section 17 and the second mesh section 80, there is a possibility that foreign matter that cannot be completely removed will remain in the mesh section 17 and the second mesh section 80.

[0081] Therefore, in this embodiment, similar to arrow C4 (Figure 7) in the collection mode, at least one of the stepped portion 81 or the dispersion space 82, preferably both the stepped portion 81 and the dispersion space 82, may be provided in the filter device 16 to obstruct the vertical rotation cutting flow. As a result, arrow C7 in Figure 10 becomes a swirling flow with a small pitch, as shown by arrow C6 in Figure 8, and swirls sufficiently within the mesh portion 17 and the second mesh portion 80, improving the performance of removing foreign matter accumulated on the inner surfaces of the mesh portion 17 and the second mesh portion 80.

[0082] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 11, in the detachment mode, if the second mesh 80a and the through-hole 80b are provided at a position where the shutter 71 is projected onto the opening 70b when viewed from the inlet 18a of the cylindrical portion 70a, the air will flow directly toward the outlet 16c as indicated by arrow C8. This makes it difficult to generate a swirling flow of sufficient strength inside the cylindrical portion 70a.

[0083] Therefore, in this embodiment, in the detachment mode, the position where the shutter 71 is projected onto the opening 70b, as viewed from the inlet 18a, is configured to be a wall surface 70c that is continuous with the wall surface of the cylindrical portion 70a. That is, the second mesh 80a and the through-hole are provided on the wall surface of the cylindrical portion 70a, excluding the area where the shutter 71 is projected, as viewed from the inlet 18a.

[0084] This configuration allows a swirling flow to be generated along the wall surface of the cylindrical section 70a, as shown by arrow C6 in Figure 9, during the desorption mode. This allows foreign matter captured by the mesh section 17 to be detached from the mesh section 17 by the swirling flow. As a result, the air resistance of the mesh section 17 caused by the captured foreign matter is eliminated, and the pressure loss of the filter device 16 can be suppressed. In other words, the filter device 16 can suppress a decrease in the collection efficiency of foreign matter by performing the desorption mode.

[0085] As described above, the filter device 16 of this embodiment is installed in an air passage (circulating air passage 9) through which air containing foreign matter passes, and comprises a case 16a that is part of the circulating air passage 9, a cylindrical or arc-shaped mesh section 17 disposed inside the case 16a to capture foreign matter, a fluid switching section 70 that changes the shape of the air passage upstream of the mesh section 17, and a cylindrical section 70a provided between the mesh section 17 and the fluid switching section 70. The fluid switching section 70 includes a shutter 71 and a rotating shaft 72 provided upstream of the mesh section 17, and a shutter motor 73 that drives the shutter 71. The filter device 16 is configured to generate a swirling flow of air in the space including the inside of the arc of the mesh section 17 by changing the opening of the air passage with the shutter 71, and to allow air to pass through the mesh section 17.

[0086] With this configuration, the filter device 16 can change its shape, including the position and cross-sectional area of ​​the air passage opening, via the fluid switching unit 70. As a result, when the shutter 71 is fully open and the air passage opening is wide, foreign matter contained in the air can be efficiently captured by the mesh unit 17 by allowing air to flow substantially along the air passage while suppressing pressure loss in the air passage. Furthermore, when the shutter 71 is largely closed and the air passage opening is narrow, the airflow is biased to generate a swirling flow inside the arc of the mesh unit 17, causing the air to adhere to the mesh unit 17. As the foreign matter is detached and accumulates in clumps, air passes through the mesh section. As a result, the air resistance caused by the foreign matter is eliminated, and the mesh section returns to its original state with minimal pressure loss.

[0087] In other words, the filter device 16 captures foreign matter contained in the drying air with the mesh section 17 in collection mode, and the foreign matter gradually accumulates on the mesh section 17. Then, by switching to detachment mode and separating the foreign matter from the mesh section 17, the washing and drying machine 100 can continue efficient drying operation.

[0088] [1-4-3. After the detachment mode ends] Next, the operation and behavior after the desorption mode is completed will be explained. When the desorption mode is completed, the blower 12 of the circulating air passage 9 stops, and the air that was flowing into the filter device 16 stops. As mentioned above, foreign matter is pressed and held in the space of the lid 16b or on the upper part of the mesh section 17 when a relatively large amount of foreign matter accumulates on the mesh section 17. For example, when the drying operation is performed only once, or when the drying operation is repeated for a small amount of clothing or synthetic fiber clothing that does not easily generate lint, the amount of foreign matter accumulated on the mesh section 17 may be relatively small.

[0089] In such cases, because the clump of foreign matter formed by the detachment mode is small, it may fall under its own weight to the lower part of the mesh section 17 or the cylindrical section 70a without being held in the space of the lid 16b or the upper part of the mesh section 17. Since it is difficult for the user to see the foreign matter from the outside, they can perform the next drying operation without being aware of it. Furthermore, when the drying operation is repeated and a large amount of foreign matter accumulates to the point where it affects the drying performance, the foreign matter is held in place at the upper part of the mesh section 17, prompting the user to discard it.

[0090] When a user disposes of foreign matter collected by the filter device 16, there are, for example, two possible methods.

[0091] The first method, as shown in Figure 4, involves the user holding the lid 16b and pulling out the integrally constructed lid 16b, mesh portion 17, and cylindrical portion 70a from the housing 1, removing the lid 16b, and disposing of the collected clump of foreign matter. In this case, since the foreign matter is in a single clump, the user can dispose of it without touching it, or by simply picking it up. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the foreign matter easily detaches from the mesh portion 17 and is unlikely to remain attached, making it extremely easy for the user to dispose of the foreign matter.

[0092] The second method involves the user opening only the lid 16b while the mesh section 17 and cylindrical section 70a remain attached to the housing 1, and removing and disposing of the foreign matter by hand or with a brush. In this case, the foreign matter inside the mesh section 17 can be disposed of without removing the mesh section 17 or cylindrical section 70a from the housing 1. Even in this case, the foreign matter is less likely to clump together and remain attached to the mesh section 17, making it easy for the user to dispose of the foreign matter.

[0093] In such a filter device 16, as shown in Figure 1, the lid 16b may have a space and be provided so as to be exposed on the upper surface of the housing 1. Furthermore, the lid 16b may be made of a transparent or translucent material that allows visibility. This allows the user to easily see inside the mesh portion 17 and check the state of collected or detached foreign matter. If the user finds that foreign matter has accumulated, they can immediately discard it. The fact that the lid 16b is transparent allows the user to easily recognize if foreign matter has accumulated in the filter device 16 without touching the housing 1, thus encouraging the user to discard the foreign matter. This suppresses problems such as increased pressure loss due to air resistance in the circulating air passage 9 and a decrease in foreign matter capture capacity during drying operation, and thus suppresses a decrease in drying performance.

[0094] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 1, the lid 16b may protrude from the housing 1 in a shape that has a space, or it may not protrude at all (not shown). If the lid 16b protrudes from the housing 1, the filter device 16 can collect more foreign matter. Also, if the lid 16b is transparent, the user can see the foreign matter swirling in the space of the lid 16b during the detachment mode. Therefore, the user can become more aware of the presence of foreign matter, and can also easily see that the foreign matter has been collected afterward.

[0095] Furthermore, the inner diameter of the space of the protruding lid 16b may be larger than the inner diameter D2 of the mesh portion 17. This difference in inner diameter creates a step that traps foreign matter in the space of the lid 16b, making it difficult for it to return to the mesh portion 17. In particular, as in this embodiment, when the filter device 16 is configured so that the swirling flow is upward, the detached foreign matter tends to move downward due to gravity, so it is effective to provide a foreign matter return suppression part such as the third step portion 83 shown in Figure 10.

[0096] The space provided by the lid 16b is not necessarily required; a transparent lid 16b without a space above the mesh section 17 may be provided. In this case, foreign matter captured and accumulated in the mesh section 17 will be detached from the mesh section 17 by the detachment mode, and as it swirls around in the space of the mesh section 17, it will clump together and stick to the lid 16b above the mesh section 17. The user can easily see this state and discard the foreign matter as needed to prevent a decrease in the efficiency of the drying operation. Furthermore, if the lid 16b does not protrude above the top surface of the housing 1, the user can more easily utilize the top surface of the housing 1 by placing objects on it.

[0097] Furthermore, in this embodiment, a transparent lid 16b is provided on the top surface of the housing 1, allowing the user to see inside the lid 16b from above the housing 1, but the embodiment is not limited to this. For example, the lid 16b may be provided on the front or side of the housing 1, allowing the user to see inside the lid 16b from that direction. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the top surface of the housing 1 and the cylindrical centerline A1 of the mesh portion 17 are configured to be perpendicular, but the cylindrical centerline A1 may be configured to be tilted towards the front side of the housing 1. This makes it easier for the user to see the lid 16b.

[0098] [1-5. Control of filter devices in washer-dryers] The sequence of the control unit 110 that operates the filter device 16 in the washer-dryer 100 will now be described. During drying, the filter device 16 is basically operated in collection mode. As mentioned above, in collection mode, the shutter 71 is controlled to a position that does not obstruct the airflow. Therefore, the pressure loss is relatively small, foreign matter gradually accumulates on the mesh part 17, and this accumulation further forms a mesh-like structure that provides a filtration effect, maintaining a good collection rate. At this time, the airflow rate through the circulating air passage 9 is set to high, and the blower 12 is operated at high speed.

[0099] However, if the amount of foreign matter accumulated becomes excessive, the circulating airflow rate decreases, so the control unit 110 executes a detachment mode at a predetermined timing. As mentioned above, in detachment mode, the shutter 71 is controlled to a position that closes the air passage and narrows the opening 70b. Furthermore, a swirling flow is generated inside the mesh section 17, obstructing the passage of air through the mesh section 17. As a result, the pressure loss becomes relatively large, and the amount of air flowing through the circulating air passage 9 decreases. At this time, even with a relatively small amount of airflow, the air velocity flowing from the narrow opening 70b into the mesh section 17 and the second mesh section 80 is high, and the generated swirling flow can detach the foreign matter accumulated on the mesh section 17 and the second mesh section 80. Also, the execution time of the detachment mode can be such that, for example, in a household washing machine / dryer 100, foreign matter can be detached and accumulated in clumps in about 10 to 20 seconds.

[0100] Thus, by including control in the control unit 110 that accurately switches between collection mode and detachment mode, the washing dryer 100 can execute the detachment mode as appropriate, suppressing excessive pressure loss in the circulating air passage 9 during drying operation, which would reduce drying efficiency, and enabling efficient drying operation to continue.

[0101] [1-5-1. Timing of execution of the deactivation mode] The timing for executing the desorption mode is not particularly limited, but it is preferable to execute it at least before foreign matter accumulates in the mesh section 17 and the second mesh section 80, reducing the circulating airflow and significantly decreasing the drying efficiency. The more foreign matter accumulates in the mesh section 17 and the second mesh section 80, the more the accumulated matter forms a mesh-like structure that can capture it, thus improving the collection rate. However, this increases pressure loss and reduces the circulating airflow. In drying operation, the decrease in circulating airflow significantly reduces drying efficiency, so the amount of accumulation or airflow reduction at which the desorption mode is executed is designed individually for each dryer.

[0102] For this reason, it is preferable that the control unit 110 can detect predetermined changes in numerical values ​​that change as foreign matter accumulates on the mesh portion 17 and the second mesh portion 80 of the filter device 16, such as the pressure loss and circulating airflow of the filter device 16. In other words, the control unit 110 may switch to the deactivation mode when it detects a predetermined change in any of these numerical values.

[0103] For example, a detection unit (not shown) for detecting changes in the pressure loss of the filter device 16 may be provided. The method for detecting changes in pressure loss is not particularly limited as long as it is applicable to a household washing machine 100. For example, known methods for determining an increase in pressure loss include measuring the increase in differential pressure before and after the filter device 16, measuring the decrease in power consumption or current of the blower 12, and measuring the decrease in wind speed of the circulating air passage 9. With these methods, the decrease in circulating air volume can be reliably grasped, and by setting predetermined values ​​for each to execute the deactivation mode, the deactivation mode can be executed as appropriate, thereby suppressing drying operation when the pressure loss has increased and the drying efficiency has decreased significantly.

[0104] Furthermore, instead of directly measuring the increase in pressure loss, a method that detects or estimates the accumulation of foreign matter and then takes action may also be used. As an example of this method, the control unit 110 may, for example, install an optical sensor to optically detect the amount of accumulation. This allows for accurate detection of the amount of foreign matter accumulation. The control unit 110 may also accumulate the number of drying cycles or the execution time, or accumulate the amount of clothing detected during the washing cycle in accordance with multiple drying cycles. In this method, the amount of foreign matter generated may differ depending on the type of fabric of the clothing, but the control unit 110 can suppress the increase in pressure loss of the filter device 16 and maintain good drying efficiency by executing the desorption mode at an average or early timing. Note that the method for detecting changes in pressure loss may be one of the above methods or a combination of several methods.

[0105] Furthermore, the deactivation mode does not necessarily have to be performed only after the pressure loss has increased; good drying efficiency can be maintained if it is performed early and appropriately. For example, if the user can select this mode via the control panel (not shown) of the washing machine / dryer 100, it can be accommodated according to the user's convenience or preference, improving the user's ease of use.

[0106] The timing of the execution of the decompression mode during operation of the washing machine 100 will be explained below using the flowchart in Figure 12. In the following explanation, the drying operation includes the operation of dehumidifying and heating while circulating drying air, and the operation of circulating drying air only.

[0107] First, the control unit 110 starts the drying operation (Step 10). As part of the drying operation, the control unit 110 circulates air using the blower 12 and dehumidifies and humidifies the circulating air. At this time, the control unit 110 starts the collection mode (Step 20). Then, the control unit 110 Then, using the detection method described above, an increase in the pressure loss of the filter device 16 or an increase in the amount of foreign matter accumulated is detected, and a decision is made as to whether or not to execute the desorption mode depending on whether or not it exceeds a predetermined value (Step 30). If the desorption mode is to be executed (Yes in Step 30), the timing of the execution is determined, for example, according to the user's usage conditions or settings made by the user, and the desorption mode execution flag is set (Step 40).

[0108] Furthermore, the control unit 110 may execute the desorption mode each time a drying operation is performed, even if the amount of foreign matter accumulated is small (No in Step 30) (Yes in Step 50). If the desorption mode is executed each time a drying operation is performed, if there is little foreign matter, it will not have a significant adverse effect on the next drying operation even if it is not discarded. The user may set whether or not to execute the desorption mode each time a drying operation is performed (Step 50) via the operation panel (not shown) of the washing machine / dryer 100.

[0109] The timing for executing the detachment mode can be as follows, for example: (1) after the drying operation is completed, (2) during the drying operation which includes only air circulation immediately after the start of the drying operation, and, in the case of a dryer with a washing function such as the washer-dryer 100 shown in this embodiment, (3) during the next washing operation.

[0110] As a result, regardless of the amount of foreign matter accumulated, foreign matter is removed each time a drying operation is performed, and a highly efficient drying operation can be performed with low pressure loss each time.

[0111] The following explains when to execute the detachment mode.

[0112] 1) Execution after the drying process is complete (Step 40 (1)) The control unit 110 completes the drying operation by, for example, detecting that a predetermined drying state has been reached or that a set drying time has been reached, while holding the desorption mode execution flag. At this time, the control unit 110 terminates the collection mode (Yes in Step 110). Then, the desorption mode is executed for a predetermined time (Step 120). At this time, the control unit 110 resets any count values ​​such as time and number of times based on the detection of pressure loss or foreign matter accumulation. Then, the drying operation ends with the termination of the desorption mode (Step 130). The control unit 110 resets the desorption mode execution flag when the execution of the desorption mode is completed.

[0113] Thus, the desorption mode is executed after the drying operation is completed. This configuration prevents excessive accumulation of foreign matter on the mesh section 17. Furthermore, the desorption mode is not executed during the drying operation, which would reduce the circulating airflow. As a result, a good collection rate is maintained during the drying operation, and a decrease in drying efficiency is suppressed.

[0114] 2) Execution during the drying process (Step 40 (2)) The control unit 110 continues the drying operation while holding the desorption mode execution flag and executes the desorption mode for a predetermined time (Step 210). At this time, the control unit 110 resets any count values ​​such as the time and number of times for detecting pressure loss or foreign matter accumulation. Subsequently, the control unit 110 completes the drying operation, for example, by detecting that a predetermined drying state has been reached or that the set drying operation time has been reached. At this time, the control unit 110 terminates the collection mode (Yes in Step 220). The drying operation ends upon completion of the drying operation (Step 230). The control unit 110 resets the desorption mode execution flag when the execution of the desorption mode has ended.

[0115] Thus, the desorption mode is performed while the drying operation continues. This configuration may result in a decrease in drying efficiency due to a short reduction in circulating airflow during the desorption mode, however, Foreign matter accumulated on the mesh section 17 is detached, the circulating airflow is immediately restored, and good drying efficiency is maintained.

[0116] 3) Perform the next wash cycle (Step 40 (3)) The control unit 110 completes the drying operation while holding the desorption mode execution flag. At this time, the control unit 110 terminates the collection mode (Yes in Step 310). The drying operation ends upon completion of the drying operation (Step 320). Then, the control unit 110 executes the desorption mode for a predetermined time during the next washing operation (Step 330). That is, the control unit 110 operates the blower 12. At this time, or when the previous drying operation ends, the control unit 110 resets any count values ​​such as time and number of times for detecting pressure loss or foreign matter accumulation. The control unit 110 resets the desorption mode execution flag when the execution of the desorption mode ends.

[0117] Thus, with a dryer that also has a washing function, such as the washer-dryer 100, the decoupling mode can be performed during the next wash cycle. With this configuration, since the decoupling mode is performed during the wash cycle, the airflow noise in the decoupling mode is masked by the noise of the wash cycle and is not noticeable, and there is no extension of the drying time as when it is performed during or after the drying operation. Furthermore, subsequent drying operations can always be performed with a pressure loss below a predetermined value, thus suppressing a decrease in drying efficiency.

[0118] Furthermore, since the washer-dryer 100 has a washing function, as shown in Figure 2, the drainage path 103 for the washing water is connected to a sewer or the like. As a result, sewer odors may flow back in and enter the drainage path 103. To prevent this odor intrusion, a trap 102 is provided in the middle of the drainage path 103, and water called a water seal is stored there to seal the drainage path 103. However, when the washer-dryer 100 performs a drying operation and foreign matter accumulates in the filter device 16, increasing pressure loss, the static pressure inside the outer tub 3 also rises. If this pressure rises excessively, the water seal may flow out and disappear, potentially causing the trap 102 to malfunction.

[0119] According to this embodiment, the desorption mode is executed accurately, which prevents excessive pressure loss in the filter device 16, thus maintaining the function of the trap 102. Furthermore, the increase in pressure loss due to the generation of swirling flow during the execution of the desorption mode can be suppressed by shortening the execution time of the desorption mode and reducing the airflow, thus maintaining the function of the trap 102. Moreover, if the desorption mode is executed during a washing operation, there is water stored in the outer tub 3, so no large pressure is applied to the trap 102. In the unlikely event that the trap 102 stops functioning, its function will be restored by the drainage from the washing and rinsing processes.

[0120] In this embodiment, the cutting flow reduction section was described as a second mesh 80a, a through-hole 80b, a stepped section 81, and a dispersion space 82. However, the cutting flow reduction section is not limited to these, and any configuration that reduces the strength of unnecessary cutting flow and reduces the amount of foreign matter that is cut by the edges of the mesh 17a of the mesh section 17 when it rotates for a long time is acceptable. Furthermore, the filter device 16 may also include at least one of the three components of the cutting flow reduction section: the second mesh 80a, the through-hole 80b, the stepped section 81, and the dispersion space 82.

[0121] As described above, in this embodiment, the filter device 16 is installed in an air passage (circulating air passage 9) through which air containing foreign matter passes, and comprises a case 16a that is part of the circulating air passage 9, a cylindrical or arc-shaped mesh section 17 disposed inside the case 16a to capture foreign matter, and a fluid switching section 70 that changes the shape of the air passage upstream of the mesh section. The fluid switching section 70 includes a shutter 71 provided upstream of the mesh section 17 and a shutter motor 73 that drives the shutter 71, and generates a swirling airflow in the space including the inside of the arc of the mesh section 17 by changing the opening of the air passage with the shutter 71. Furthermore, it is configured so that air can pass through the mesh section 17.

[0122] With this configuration, the filter device 16 can change its shape, including the position and cross-sectional area of ​​the air passage opening, via the fluid switching unit 70. As a result, when the shutter 71 is fully open and the air passage opening is wide, foreign matter contained in the air can be efficiently captured by the mesh unit 17 by allowing air to flow substantially along the air passage while suppressing pressure loss in the air passage. Conversely, when the shutter 71 is largely closed and the air passage opening is narrow, the airflow is deflected to generate a swirling flow inside the arc of the mesh unit 17. This swirling flow detaches foreign matter attached to the mesh unit 17 and accumulates it in clumps, while the air passes through the mesh unit 17. As a result, the air resistance of the mesh unit 17 due to foreign matter is eliminated, and the mesh unit 17 is restored to its original state with low pressure loss.

[0123] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the filter device 16 may have a collection mode in which the upstream airflow passing through the mesh section 17 is substantially aligned with the airflow path, thereby capturing foreign matter in the mesh section 17, and a detachment mode in which the upstream airflow passing through the mesh section 17 is made to swirl inside the arc of the mesh section 17, causing the swirling flow to detach and accumulate the foreign matter captured in the mesh section 17.

[0124] With this configuration, the filter device 16 captures foreign matter contained in the air with the mesh section 17 in collection mode, then switches to detachment mode to separate the captured foreign matter from the mesh section 17 and accumulate it. This eliminates the air resistance of the mesh section 17 caused by foreign matter, and suppresses pressure loss.

[0125] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the filter device 16 may narrow the opening area of ​​the air passage with the shutter 71 of the fluid switching section 70 and bias the air passage towards the side wall, thereby biasing the air flowing into the mesh section 17 to flow along the side wall and generating a swirling flow along the inside of the arc of the mesh section 17.

[0126] With this configuration, the air flows smoothly into the inner arc of the fluid switching section 70, biased towards the side walls of the air passage, generating a swirling flow, and also generates a stable swirling flow inside the arc of the mesh section 17.

[0127] Furthermore, in the filter device 16 of this embodiment, the mesh portion 17 may be formed in a hollow frustoconical cylindrical or arc shape, where the inner diameter of one bottom surface having the lid 16b is larger than the inner diameter of the other bottom surface.

[0128] With this configuration, first, a force acts to move the foreign matter downstream. Furthermore, centrifugal force is also applied to the foreign matter, causing it to move towards the lid side, which has a larger inner diameter. As a result, even without a special transfer mechanism, the foreign matter can be easily transferred by airflow towards the lid 16b, that is, towards the outer casing of the housing 1. This prevents problems such as excessive accumulation of foreign matter in the mesh section 17, which can lead to increased pressure loss and a decrease in the drying performance of the washing machine 100.

[0129] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the fluid switching section 70 may also include a rotatable flat plate-shaped shutter 71 and a rotating shaft 72 provided upstream of the mesh section 17, and a shutter motor 73 that rotates the shutter 71.

[0130] This configuration allows the shutter to change the cross-sectional area of ​​the airflow path, acting as a filter to capture foreign matter in the mesh section, or to generate a swirling flow to detach foreign matter attached to the mesh section and accumulate it in clumps.

[0131] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the washing and drying machine 100 includes a housing 1, a rotating drum 4 provided inside the housing 1 for accommodating clothes and the like, a blower 12 for generating airflow when drying clothes, a filter device 16 for collecting foreign matter contained in the air, a circulating air passage 9 that includes the rotating drum 4 and the filter device 16 and is connected so that air circulates via the blower 12, and a control unit 110 for performing the drying operation. The filter device 16 includes a case 16a, a lid 16b, an air intake section 18, a mesh section 17 for capturing foreign matter, and a fluid switching section 70 that changes the shape of the air passage upstream of the mesh section 17. The fluid switching section 70 includes a shutter 71 provided upstream of the mesh section 17 and a shutter motor 73 for driving the shutter. The control unit 110 includes control to switch between a collection mode, in which foreign matter is captured in the mesh section 17, by changing the airflow path with the shutter 71, and a detachment mode, in which a swirling airflow is generated inside the arc of the mesh section 17 to detach the captured foreign matter from the mesh section.

[0132] With this configuration, the washing and drying machine 100 includes control by the control unit 110 to accurately switch from collection mode to detachment mode during drying operation, thereby executing the detachment mode as appropriate and suppressing excessive pressure loss in the circulating air passage during the collection mode of the drying operation, which would reduce drying efficiency, and enabling the continuation of efficient drying operation.

[0133] Furthermore, in the washing and drying machine 100 of this embodiment, the lid 16b may be made of a transparent material.

[0134] This configuration allows the user to easily see inside the mesh section 17 and confirm the condition of the collected foreign matter.

[0135] Furthermore, in the washing and drying machine 100 of this embodiment, the lid 16b may be configured to protrude from the housing 1 in a shape that has space between them.

[0136] This configuration allows the filter device 16 to collect more foreign matter, and the user can easily visually confirm that foreign matter has been collected.

[0137] Furthermore, in the washing and drying machine 100 of this embodiment, the control unit 110 may execute a detachment mode at a predetermined timing when it detects a predetermined change in a numerical value that changes due to the accumulation of foreign matter on the mesh portion 17 of the filter device 16.

[0138] This configuration allows for reliable detection of decreases in circulating airflow, and by setting limit values ​​for each, drying operations can be suppressed when pressure loss increases and drying efficiency is significantly reduced.

[0139] Furthermore, in the washing machine 100 of this embodiment, the control unit 110 may execute the detachment mode at any of the following timings: during the drying operation, after the drying operation is completed, or, if the machine also has a washing function, during the washing operation.

[0140] This configuration allows users to select the timing for executing the detachment mode, accommodating their needs or preferences and improving user experience.

[0141] Furthermore, in the washing and drying machine 100 of this embodiment, the control unit 110 may execute a detachment mode at one of the following timings each time a drying operation is performed: immediately before the drying operation, during the drying operation, or after the drying operation is completed.

[0142] This configuration ensures that foreign matter is removed each time a drying operation is performed, regardless of the amount of foreign matter accumulated, and that a highly efficient drying operation can be performed each time with low pressure loss.

[0143] [1-6. Effects, etc.] As explained above, the technology and its effects described in Embodiment 1 are as follows.

[0144] (Technology 1) The filter device 16 is installed in a flow path (air channel) through which a fluid (air) containing foreign matter passes, and comprises a case 16a that is part of the flow path, and a cylindrical or arc-shaped mesh portion 17 disposed inside the case 16a to capture foreign matter. The filter device 16 is configured to separate foreign matter from the mesh portion 17 by generating a swirling flow of fluid in the space including the inside of the arc of the mesh portion 17. The filter device 16 is equipped inside the case 16a with a cutting flow reduction portion that reduces the generation of a cutting flow, which is a different flow from the swirling flow and cuts off foreign matter with the edges of the mesh portion 17.

[0145] This configuration allows the cutting flow reduction unit to reduce the amount of foreign matter that is ground down and broken down by the edges of the mesh 17a of the mesh section 17 when it rotates inside the filter device 16 for a long time due to the cutting flow. As a result, the filter device 16 can reduce the amount of foreign matter that passes through the holes of the mesh section 17 and suppress a decrease in the collection rate of foreign matter.

[0146] (Technology 2) In the filter device 16 described in Technical 1, the case 16a is provided with a cylindrical portion 70a upstream of the mesh portion 17, and the cutting flow reduction portion is provided with a second mesh portion 80 in which a mesh is arranged, penetrating a part of the wall surface of the cylindrical portion 70a. The filter device 16 discharges the fluid that has passed through the second mesh portion 80 to the outside of the filter device 16.

[0147] With this configuration, the air flowing in from the inlet 18a passes through the second mesh section 80 and flows smoothly to the outlet 16c, thereby reducing the strength of the vertically rotating cutting flow. Consequently, the outflow of fine foreign matter caused by the cutting flow from the outlet 16c can be reduced. In other words, a decrease in the foreign matter collection efficiency of the filter device 16 can be suppressed.

[0148] Furthermore, by providing the second mesh section 80, the cutting flow, which is an unnecessary flow, can be reduced, and the pressure loss of the airflow inside the case 16a can be reduced. Therefore, when the filter device 16 is used in the washing machine 100, the drying airflow can be increased and drying performance can be improved without increasing the airflow of the blower 12. In addition, since the filter device 16 can reduce the pressure loss of the airflow, the burden on the blower 12 that circulates the drying air can be reduced.

[0149] (Technology 3) In the filter device described in Technical 1, the filter device 16 includes a fluid switching unit 70 that changes the shape of the flow path upstream of the mesh portion 17, and the fluid switching unit 70 includes a shutter 71 provided upstream of the mesh portion 17 and a shutter motor (drive unit) 73 that drives the shutter 71. The filter device 16 may have a collection mode in which foreign matter is captured in the mesh portion 17 by changing the shape of the flow path so that the fluid flow upstream passing through the mesh portion 17 substantially follows the flow path, and a detachment mode in which foreign matter captured in the mesh portion 17 is separated from the mesh portion 17 and accumulated by the swirling flow so that the fluid flow upstream passing through the mesh portion 17 becomes a swirling flow inside the arc of the mesh portion 17.

[0150] With this configuration, the filter device 16 changes the flow path configuration by the fluid switching unit 70. In the collection mode, foreign matter contained in the air is captured by the mesh section 17, and then the system switches to the detachment mode to separate the captured foreign matter from the mesh section 17 and accumulate it. As a result, the air resistance of the mesh section 17 caused by the captured foreign matter is eliminated, and the pressure loss of the filter device 16 can be suppressed.

[0151] (Technology 4) In the filter device described in Technical 2, the filter device 16 includes a fluid switching unit 70 that changes the shape of the flow path upstream of the mesh portion 17, and the fluid switching unit 70 includes a shutter 71 provided upstream of the mesh portion 17 and a shutter motor (drive unit) 73 that drives the shutter 71. The filter device 16 may have a collection mode in which foreign matter is captured in the mesh portion 17 by changing the shape of the flow path so that the fluid flow upstream passing through the mesh portion 17 substantially follows the flow path, and a detachment mode in which foreign matter captured in the mesh portion 17 is separated from the mesh portion 17 and accumulated by the swirling flow so that the fluid flow upstream passing through the mesh portion 17 becomes a swirling flow inside the arc of the mesh portion 17.

[0152] With this configuration, the filter device 16 can change the shape of the flow path by the fluid switching unit 70, capture foreign matter contained in the air with the mesh unit 17 in collection mode, and then switch to a detachment mode to separate the captured foreign matter from the mesh unit 17 and accumulate it. As a result, the air resistance of the mesh unit 17 caused by the captured foreign matter is eliminated, and the pressure loss of the filter device 16 can be suppressed.

[0153] (Technology 5) In the filter device 16 described in Technical 4, the cutting flow reduction section may, in the desorption mode, configure a second mesh section 80 on the wall surface of the cylindrical section 70a, excluding the area where the shutter 71 is projected, as viewed from the inlet 18a of the cylindrical section 70a.

[0154] This configuration generates a swirling flow along the wall surface of the cylindrical section 70a in the desorption mode. This allows foreign matter captured by the mesh section 17 to be detached from the mesh section 17 by the swirling flow. As a result, the air resistance of the mesh section 17 caused by the captured foreign matter is eliminated, and the pressure loss of the filter device 16 can be suppressed. In other words, the filter device 16 can suppress a decrease in the collection efficiency of foreign matter by performing the desorption mode.

[0155] (Technology 6) In the filter device 16 described in any one of Techniques 1 to 5, the cutting flow reduction section may be composed of a stepped section 81 within the cylindrical section 70a that acts as a flow resistance for the cutting flow.

[0156] With this configuration, a portion of the air flowing in from the inlet 18a is obstructed by the stepped portion 81, thereby reducing the strength of the vertically rotating cutting flow. Consequently, the outflow of fine foreign matter caused by the cutting flow from the outlet 16c can be reduced. In other words, a decrease in the foreign matter collection efficiency of the filter device 16 can be suppressed.

[0157] (Technology 7) In the filter device 16 described in any one of the technologies 1 to 6, the cutting flow reduction section may be configured as a dispersion space 82 for dispersing the cutting flow within the cylindrical section 70a.

[0158] This configuration allows some of the air flowing in from the inlet 18a to flow into the dispersion space 82, thereby reducing the force of the airflow passing through the mesh section 17. As a result, the strength of the vertically rotating cutting flow can be reduced. Therefore, fine particles caused by the cutting flow can be reduced. This reduces the amount of material that flows out from the outlet 16c. In other words, it suppresses the decrease in the foreign matter collection efficiency of the filter device 16.

[0159] (Technology 8) In the filter device 16 described in any one of the technologies 3 to 4, the cutting flow reduction section may be configured such that the central axis of the flow path in which the shutter 71 is located and the central axis of the cylindrical section 70a intersect at one point.

[0160] With this configuration, the air flowing in from the inlet 18a flows almost equally from side to side within the cylindrical section 70a, thereby reducing the strength of the lateral rotation cutting flow. Consequently, the outflow of fine foreign matter caused by the cutting flow from the outlet 16c can be reduced. In other words, a decrease in the foreign matter collection efficiency of the filter device 16 can be suppressed. Furthermore, the filter device 16 can suppress the cutting flow generated by the uneven inflow of air from the air introduction section 18 into the cylindrical section 70a, thereby suppressing pressure loss.

[0161] (Technology 9) A washing machine 100 equipped with a filter device 16 as described in any one of technologies 1 to 8, wherein the washing machine 100 comprises a housing 1, a rotating drum (storage section) 4 provided inside the housing 1 for accommodating objects to be dried, a blower 12 for generating a flow of air which is a fluid when drying objects, and a flow path including the rotating drum 4 and the filter device 16, connected so that air is circulated by the blower 12, and foreign matter contained in the air is collected by the filter device 16.

[0162] With this configuration, the washing and drying machine 100 equipped with the filter device 16 can reduce the amount of foreign matter that is shaved down by the edges of the mesh 17a of the mesh section 17 when it rotates inside the filter device 16 for a long time due to the cutting flow, thanks to the cutting flow reduction section. As a result, the filter device 16 can reduce the amount of foreign matter that passes through the holes of the mesh section 17 and suppress a decrease in the foreign matter collection rate.

[0163] Furthermore, the washer-dryer 100 can reduce the outflow of foreign matter such as lint thanks to the filter device 16, thereby suppressing malfunctions caused by the outflow of foreign matter in the heat exchanger 10, heat absorber 11, and blower 12 located downstream of the filter device 16.

[0164] As described above, Embodiment 1 has been presented as an example of the technology in this disclosure. However, the technology in this disclosure is not limited to this and can be applied to embodiments that have been modified, replaced, added, or omitted.

[0165] The above embodiments are illustrative of the technology described herein, and therefore, various modifications, substitutions, additions, omissions, etc., can be made within the scope of the claims or their equivalents.

[0166] Furthermore, any combination of the components described in the embodiments above, as well as conversions of the expressions of this disclosure between methods, apparatus, systems, recording media, computer programs, etc., are also valid embodiments of this disclosure. [Industrial applicability]

[0167] This disclosure is applicable not only to equipment for separating foreign matter from a gas, but also to filter devices and equipment equipped with filter devices for collecting foreign matter contained in a fluid flowing through a channel. Examples of equipment for separating foreign matter from a gas include dryers including clothes dryers, air conditioners, air purifiers, etc. There are also devices that separate foreign matter from water and other liquids, such as dishwashers and water purifiers. These can be for home or commercial use. [Explanation of symbols]

[0168] 1 cabinet 2. Suspension system 3 Outer tank 4-rotation drum 5. Clothing entrance 6 doors 7. Stirring protrusions 8 motors 9 Circulation air duct 10 Heat sink 11 Heat sink 12 Blower 13 Air vents 14 Exhaust vents 16 Filter device 16a Case 16b Lid 16c Outlet 17 Mesh section 17a Mesh 17c frame 18 Air intake 18a Inlet 18c bottom 18d, 18e side view 70 Fluid switching section 70a Cylindrical section 70b opening 70c wall 71 Shutter 72 Rotation axis 73. Shutter motor (drive unit) 80 Second Mesh Section 80a Second mesh (cutting flow reduction section) 80b Through-hole section (cutting flow reduction section) 81 Stepped section (cutting flow reduction section) 82 Dispersed space (cutting flow reduction section) 82a Bottom 82b Second step section 83 Third step section 100 Washer-Dryer 101 Drain valve 102 Traps 103 Drainage Route 110 Control Unit

Claims

1. A filter device installed in a flow path through which a fluid containing foreign matter passes, Cases that become part of the aforementioned flow path, The case comprises a cylindrical or arc-shaped mesh portion disposed within the case for capturing the foreign matter, The system is configured to detach foreign matter from the mesh portion by generating a swirling flow of the fluid in the space including the inside of the arc of the mesh portion. The case is equipped with a cutting flow reduction unit that reduces the generation of a cutting flow that is different from the swirling flow and cuts off foreign matter at the edges of the mesh portion. Filter device.

2. The case has a cylindrical portion on the upstream side of the mesh portion, The cutting flow reduction unit is The cylindrical portion is further provided with a second mesh section in which a mesh is arranged, with the mesh penetrating a portion of the wall surface of the cylindrical portion. The filter device according to claim 1, wherein the fluid that has passed through the second mesh portion is discharged to the outside of the filter device.

3. The filter device includes a fluid switching unit that changes the shape of the flow path upstream of the mesh section, The fluid switching unit includes a shutter provided on the upstream side of the mesh unit and a drive unit that drives the shutter. The filter device, by changing the shape of the flow path, A collection mode in which the fluid flow upstream passing through the mesh portion substantially follows the flow path, thereby capturing the foreign matter in the mesh portion, and The system includes a desorption mode in which the fluid flow on the upstream side passing through the mesh portion becomes a swirling flow inside the arc of the mesh portion, and the swirling flow detaches and accumulates the foreign matter captured by the mesh portion from the mesh portion. The filter device according to claim 1.

4. The filter device includes a fluid switching unit that changes the shape of the flow path upstream of the mesh section, The fluid switching unit includes a shutter provided on the upstream side of the mesh unit and a drive unit that drives the shutter. The filter device, by changing the shape of the flow path, A collection mode in which the fluid flow upstream passing through the mesh portion substantially follows the flow path, thereby capturing the foreign matter in the mesh portion, and The system includes a desorption mode in which the fluid flow on the upstream side passing through the mesh portion becomes a swirling flow inside the arc of the mesh portion, and the swirling flow detaches and accumulates the foreign matter captured by the mesh portion from the mesh portion. The filter device according to claim 2.

5. In the detachment mode, the cutting flow reduction section constitutes the second mesh section on the wall surface of the cylindrical section, excluding the area on which the shutter is projected, as viewed from the inlet of the cylindrical section. The filter device according to claim 4.

6. The cutting flow reduction section is composed of stepped sections within the cylindrical section that act as flow resistance for the cutting flow. The filter device according to claim 1.

7. The cutting flow reduction section is composed of a dispersion space within the cylindrical section that disperses the cutting flow. The filter device according to claim 1.

8. The cutting flow reduction unit is configured such that the central axis of the flow path in which the shutter is located and the central axis of the cylindrical portion intersect at one point. The filter device according to claim 3.

9. A dryer equipped with the filter device described in claim 1, The aforementioned dryer, The casing and The enclosure includes a storage section for containing the object to be dried, A blower that generates a flow of air, which is a fluid, when drying the object to be dried, The facility includes the aforementioned housing and the aforementioned filter device, and comprises a flow path connected to the blower so that air is circulated by the blower, A dryer equipped with a filter device that collects foreign matter contained in the air using the filter device.

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