Drying system and washing machine using the drying system

Abstract

The present invention discloses a washing machine and an operating method thereof, the washing machine includes a container for storing laundry and a dehumidifier, the pre-dehumidifier includes a circulation fan and a regeneration fan, the circulation fan is used to generate moist air, the moist air flows out of the container and flows to a moisture absorption and dehumidification structure for absorbing moisture in the moist air, the regeneration fan is used to generate an airflow containing the moisture absorbed by the moisture absorption and dehumidification structure, the airflow flows to a condenser for condensing water from the generated airflow, and the moisture absorption and dehumidification structure is disposed adjacent to the circulation fan, the regeneration fan and the condenser.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] [Cross - reference to Related Applications] This application claims the priority of Chinese Patent Application CN202111023112.5 filed on September 1, 2021 、 and Chinese Patent Application CN202111450553.3 filed on November 30, 2021 WIPO patent applications PCT / CN2022 / 116142, PCT / CN2022 / 116387, and PCT / CN2022 / 116242, filed on August 31, 2022, and PCT / IB2022 / 058200, filed on September 1, 2022. and all of its contents are incorporated herein by reference. of

[0002] The present disclosure generally relates to the field of household appliances, and particularly to washing machines, such as washing machines, dryers or integrated washing - drying systems (e.g., built - in type, integrated type or all - in - one type washing - drying machines), and methods of operating such washing machines.

Background Art

[0003] With the improvement of living standards, lifestyles are continuously changing. People no longer satisfy the basic functions of household appliances.

[0004] For example, in the washing machine industry, fully automatic integrated washing - drying machines can dry clothes after the washing of the clothes is completed. This function is particularly suitable for humid climates. Therefore, fully automatic integrated washing - drying machines are preferred by more consumers. The existing drying system of integrated washing - drying machines uses an evaporator to heat and absorb moisture from the moist air in the inner tub drum of the integrated washing - drying machine. The obtained heated air then enters the inner tub drum of the integrated washing - drying machine again, and can evaporate the moisture contained in the clothes. However, the overall temperature of the evaporator is constant. In the process of heating and absorbing moisture from the moist air, the moisture absorption capacity of the evaporator for the moist air decreases, resulting in low moisture absorption efficiency, long drying time, and high power consumption. Especially in areas with low temperatures, the temperature of the moist air is also low. As a result, it becomes difficult for the temperature of the evaporator to reach the moisture absorption temperature, further reducing the moisture absorption efficiency, increasing the drying time, and increasing the power consumption.

[0005] <00000Furthermore, since different family members have different washing and drying requirements, a twin-load washing machine (or double-load, dual-load, etc.) is suitable. For example, the upper washing area of ​​a twin-load washing machine can be used for washing and drying laundry made of specific fabrics, such as children's clothes and women's underwear, to provide better care during the washing process. On the other hand, the lower washing area can be used for washing and drying general laundry, mainly adult everyday clothes. However, existing twin-load washing machines employ separate washing and drying systems for the upper and lower washing areas, resulting in problems such as the washing machine being too tall, too bulky, inconvenient for the user to operate, and expensive. [Overview of the project]

[0006] According to embodiments of the present disclosure, a washing machine is provided. The washing machine includes a container for holding laundry and a dehumidifier, the dehumidifier including a circulation fan and a regeneration fan, the circulation fan regenerating the humid air flowing out of the container 、 Towards a moisture-absorbing and dehumidifying structure for absorbing moisture in the aforementioned humid air flush The regeneration fan is configured to circulate, before Absorbed by the moisture-absorbing and dehumidifying structure The aforementioned moisture Discharge Generates an airflow death, raw Growth The above Towards a condenser that condenses moisture from the airflow Let's create the aforementioned airflow. The structure is configured such that the moisture absorption and dehumidification structure is provided adjacent to the circulation fan, the regeneration fan, and the condenser. The moisture-absorbing and dehumidifying structure includes a roller assembly, and other rollers are provided on at least one of the bottom and side edges of the roller assembly.

[0007] In some embodiments, the circulation fan and the condenser are adjacent to the regeneration fan. ,and It is provided on the opposite side of the aforementioned regeneration fan.

[0008] In some embodiments, the moisture absorption and dehumidification structure is provided in the same plane as at least one of the circulation fan, the regeneration fan, and the condenser.

[0009] In some embodiments, the circulation fan, the moisture absorption and dehumidification structure, the regeneration fan, and the condenser are located in the same plane.

[0010]

[0011] In some embodiments, two or more of the corresponding rotational axes of the circulation fan, the roller assembly, and the regeneration fan in the dehumidifier are but They are parallel to each other.

[0012] In some embodiments, The other rollers mentioned above are The aforementioned roller assembly It is provided on the side Multiple auxiliary rollers housed in corresponding housings in the lower casing Includes Furthermore, the lower casing is used to house one or more components of the dehumidifier, and the plurality of auxiliary rollers Axis of rotation teeth 、 The roller assembly Ri Laura Axis of rotation It is parallel to it.

[0013] In some embodiments, The other rollers mentioned above are The aforementioned roller assembly Located at the bottom , distributed in the lower casing for housing one or more components of the dehumidifier. Includes multiple vertical rollers , The rotational axes of the aforementioned plurality of vertical rollers are, The roller assembly Ri Laura Axis of rotation It is positioned perpendicular to it. ru .

[0014] In some embodiments, one or more of the corresponding rotational axes of the circulation fan, the roller assembly, and the regeneration fan in the dehumidifier. teeth, It is perpendicular to the rotation axis of the aforementioned container.

[0015] In some embodiments, one or more of the corresponding rotational axes of the circulation fan, the roller assembly, and the regeneration fan in the dehumidifier. teeth, It is parallel to the rotation axis of the container.

[0016] In some embodiments, a lower casing including a plurality of regions is further included, and the plurality of regions are each configured to accommodate two or more of the circulation fan, the moisture absorption and dehumidification structure, the regeneration fan, and the condenser. of Two or more of them are configured to be accommodated.

[0017] In some embodiments, the lower casing is a single integrated member.

[0018] In some embodiments, the moisture absorption and dehumidification structure 、 includes a dehumidification and moisture absorption region and a regeneration and dehumidification region. In some embodiments, the moisture absorption region ,before is used to absorb moisture from the The aforementioned moist air circulated by the The aforementioned circulation fan. In some embodiments, the dehumidification region including at least the portion of the moisture-absorbing and dehumidifying structure includes a heating part provided above a part of the moisture absorption and dehumidification structure adjacent to the regeneration fan. 、 A part adjacent to the regeneration fan Department of the moisture absorption and dehumidification structure.

[0019] In some embodiments, the dehumidifier further includes a moisture absorption passage, the moisture absorption region is provided on the moisture absorption passage, and the moisture absorption passage is configured to allow the airflow generated by the circulation fan to flow from the container towards the moisture absorption region.

[0020] In some embodiments, the dehumidifier further includes a dehumidification passage, the dehumidification region is provided on the dehumidification passage, and the dehumidification passage is configured to allow the airflow generated by the regeneration fan to flow towards the condenser and remove the moisture in the airflow.

[0021] In some embodiments, the heating part includes a plurality of heating elements arranged adjacent to a plurality of air holes in a mesh plate.

[0022] In some embodiments, the heating part has a fan-shaped structure, and the corresponding diameters of the plurality of air holes become smaller towards the center of the fan-shaped structure along the radial direction.

[0023] In some embodiments, the plurality of heating elements are configured to be adjacent to the plurality of air vents and offset radially toward the center of the fan-shaped structure.

[0024] In some embodiments, the washing machine further includes an exhaust passage connected to an air outlet of the container, and a filter assembly provided on the exhaust passage, the filter assembly including a filter screen and a filter self-cleaning device for cleaning the filter screen.

[0025] In some embodiments, the dehumidifier further includes a spiral casing configured to cover the circulating fan and to mount the circulating fan on a lower casing for housing one or more components in the dehumidifier.

[0026] The present invention provides an integrated washer-dryer comprising an inner drum, a drying module, a circulation fan, and a regeneration fan, wherein the circulation fan is provided in the moisture absorption passage and causes a circulating airflow to form in the inner drum and the moisture absorption passage, the regeneration fan is provided in the regeneration passage and causes a dehumidifying airflow to form in the regeneration passage, the moisture absorption member is provided in the moisture absorption passage and the regeneration passage and causes the circulating airflow and the dehumidifying airflow to flow through the moisture absorption member, the moisture absorption member absorbs moisture in the circulating airflow in the moisture absorption passage when the moisture absorption member rotates, and the regeneration passage Dehumidifying flow It is configured to discharge the aforementioned moisture through this.

[0027] In some embodiments, the integrated washer-dryer further includes a water inlet and a water outlet, each connected to the inner drum.

[0028] In some embodiments, the integrated washing and drying machine further includes a drive unit that is connected to the inner drum and drives the inner drum to rotate.

[0029] In some embodiments, the integrated washing and drying machine further includes a filter member provided in the moisture absorption passage, the filter member being located upstream of the moisture absorption member.

[0030] In some embodiments, the filter member is provided in the regeneration passage.

[0031] In some embodiments, a heating element is further provided in the moisture absorption passage.

[0032] In some embodiments, the moisture-absorbing member includes a moisture-absorbing rotating disc and a heating assembly.

[0033] In some embodiments, the heating assembly The moisture absorber covers the regeneration area on the moisture absorber rotating disc, the moisture absorbent area on the moisture absorber rotating disc is provided within the moisture absorbent passage, the regeneration area is the area through which the exhaust moisture flow on the moisture absorber rotating disc flows, and the moisture absorbent area is the area through which the circulating air flow on the moisture absorber rotating disc flows.

[0034] In some embodiments, the heating assembly includes a cover that covers the regeneration area of ​​the moisture-absorbing rotating disc, and an opening is provided in the portion of the cover corresponding to the regeneration area that connects to the regeneration passage, and the regeneration heating section is provided in the housing.

[0035] In some embodiments, the moisture-absorbing rotating disc is Moisture-absorbing roller and the above Moisture-absorbing roller The shell includes a rotating member that connects to the Moisture-absorbing rotating disc Covering the exterior of the above Moisture-absorbing rotating disc The rotating member is configured to rotate relative to the shell when driven by the rotating member, and the shell is connected to the moisture absorption passage and the regeneration passage, respectively.

[0036] In some embodiments, a condensing member is provided on the regeneration passage, and the condensing member is configured to cool the dehumidified flow in the regeneration passage and dry the dehumidified flow.

[0037] In some embodiments, the integrated washer-dryer further includes a controller, a temperature sensor further provided in the moisture absorption passage, the controller is electrically connected to the temperature sensor and the heating element, and the controller is configured to control the on / off state of the heating element in accordance with the temperature detected by the temperature sensor.

[0038] In some embodiments, a humidity sensor is further provided inside the inner drum for detecting the humidity of the inner drum.

[0039] In some embodiments, the number of humidity sensors is two or more, and the temperature sensors are located at different positions on the inner drum.

[0040] In some embodiments, the integrated washing and drying machine further includes a housing, the inner drum and The drive unit The unit is provided within the housing, the regeneration passage is provided at least partially between the inner drum and the housing, a second air outlet and a second air inlet are provided on the side of the housing, the second air outlet is connected to the air outlet end of the regeneration passage, and the second air inlet is connected to the air inlet end of the regeneration passage.

[0041] In some embodiments, the integrated washer-dryer further includes a housing, the moisture-absorbing member is located within the housing, and the housing rotates relative to the fixedly installed moisture-absorbing member.

[0042] According to the integrated washer-dryer provided in the embodiments of this disclosure, the moisture-absorbing member is used to absorb moisture from the humid air that enters the moisture-absorbing passage from the inner drum, and the humidified air is discharged into the inner drum, gradually reducing the moisture in the inner drum and achieving the drying objective. Therefore, the integrated washer-dryer does not require an evaporator for heating and dehumidifying the humid air in the inner drum. Furthermore, by using a dehumidifying member that is not sensitive to temperature, the range of applications for the integrated washer-dryer is broadened and the dehumidification effect is improved. Compared to a washer-dryer equipped with a heat pump, the integrated washer-dryer disclosed in this disclosure has a smaller volume, higher economic efficiency, and lower energy consumption.

[0043] A washing machine including a housing and a dehumidifier is further provided. The housing includes a plurality of containers for holding laundry, each of the plurality of containers including an air inlet passage and an air outlet passage, the dehumidifier is configured to selectively dehumidify laundry in a container selected from the plurality of containers, the dehumidifier includes an air inlet connected to the air outlet passage of the selected container, and an air outlet connected to the air inlet passage of the selected container.

[0044] In some embodiments, the washing machine further includes a filter assembly, which includes a filter provided in the air outlet passage of the selected container or the air inlet of the dehumidifier, and a filter self-cleaning device for cleaning the filter.

[0045] In some embodiments, the dehumidifier selectively communicates fluid with one of the multiple containers via a switching mechanism.

[0046] In some embodiments, the dehumidifier includes a moisture absorption passage, a dehumidification passage and a moisture absorption / dehumidification member, the moisture absorption / dehumidification member includes a moisture absorption region communicating with the moisture absorption passage and a dehumidification region communicating with the dehumidification passage, the moisture absorption passage includes the air inlet of the dehumidifier located on the air inlet side of the moisture absorption region of the moisture absorption / dehumidification member and the air outlet of the dehumidifier located on the air outlet side of the moisture absorption region of the moisture absorption / dehumidification member, the dehumidification passage includes an intake section located on the air inlet side of the dehumidification region of the moisture absorption / dehumidification member and located on the air outlet side of the dehumidification region of the moisture absorption / dehumidification member Exhaust section The moisture absorption passage is configured such that the intake portion of the moisture absorption passage is selectively connected to the air outlet passage of the selected container, the exhaust portion of the moisture absorption passage is connected to the air inlet passage of the selected container, or the moisture absorption and dehumidifying member is rotatably provided in the moisture absorption passage and the dehumidifying passage.

[0047] In some embodiments, the washing machine further includes a switching structure, the switching structure including a first switching mechanism and a second switching mechanism, wherein the air inlet passage of the selected container is connected to the exhaust portion of the moisture absorption passage via the first switching mechanism, and the air outlet passage of the selected container is connected to the intake portion of the moisture absorption passage via the second switching mechanism.

[0048] In some embodiments, the filter and the filter self-cleaning device are provided within the intake section of the dehumidifier and are located between the second switching mechanism and the moisture-absorbing / dehumidifying member.

[0049] In some embodiments, the second switching mechanism is provided at the connection point between the intake section of the dehumidifier and the air outlet passage of the container, or the washing machine includes a plurality of the switching mechanisms provided within the air outlet passage of the container.

[0050] In some embodiments, the washing machine includes one or more sets of filters and filter self-cleaning devices, each provided in the air outlet passage of the container and located upstream or downstream of the second switching mechanism.

[0051] In some embodiments, the filter self-cleaning device applies to the filter fluid The filter self-cleaning device includes a spraying mechanism for spraying, or the filter self-cleaning device includes a vibration mechanism for vibrating the filter, or the filter self-cleaning device includes the filter gas The filter self-cleaning device includes a spraying mechanism for spraying, or the filter surface It includes a scraping mechanism for scraping off the material.

[0052] In some embodiments, the direction in which the fluid of the spraying mechanism flows through the filter is opposite to the direction in which the airflow flows through the filter, or the filter and the filter self-cleaning device are provided in the intake section of the dehumidifier and are located between the switching mechanism and the moisture-absorbing / dehumidifying member, and the filter self-cleaning device includes a spraying mechanism for spraying onto the filter, wherein the direction in which the fluid of the spraying mechanism is sprayed is away from the moisture-absorbing / dehumidifying member.

[0053] In some embodiments, the nozzle of the spraying mechanism is located above the centerline of the filter, or the nozzle of the spraying mechanism is located on the air outlet side of the filter.

[0054] In some embodiments, the washing machine further includes a fan and a heater provided within the dehumidifying passage, wherein the heater is located near the dehumidifying region of the moisture-absorbing and dehumidifying member.

[0055] In some embodiments, the washing machine further includes a heat exchanger provided in the dehumidifying passage, the heat exchanger being located on the air outlet side of the dehumidifying area, the heat exchanger including a vent passage communicating with the dehumidifying area and a water outlet for discharging condensed water, the heat exchanger including a cooling passage for a refrigerant to pass through, the exhaust port of the vent passage of the heat exchanger communicating with the air inlet of the fan, or the heat exchanger including a cooling passage for a refrigerant to pass through, and the exhaust port of the vent passage of the heat exchanger washThe fan communicates with the outside of the washing machine, or the fan includes an air inlet passage that passes through the inside of the heat exchanger.

[0056] In some embodiments, the washing machine further includes a heat exchanger, which is located on the air outlet passage of the selected container or within the intake section of the dehumidifier, for dehumidifying and cooling the airflow discharged from the selected container. The aforementioned dehumidification passage The air outlet passage of the container Ma or the intake part of the dehumidifier inside Moist hot air upstream of the dehumidification area The aforementioned To allow heat exchange with the dry, cold air in the dehumidification passage, it penetrates the inside of the heat exchanger. The aforementioned It is located upstream of the dehumidification area.

[0057] In some embodiments, the plurality of containers include an upper tank and a lower tank that are stacked vertically, and the dehumidifier includes the upper tank and the lower tank of It is located either above the upper tank or below the lower tank.

[0058] In some embodiments, the upper tank and the lower tank are both wash It is the inner tub of a washing machine, or the upper tub is the inner tub of a dryer and the lower tub is the inner tub of a washing machine, or the upper tub is the inner tub of a washing machine and the lower tub is the inner tub of a dryer.

[0059] Further, a method for operating a washing machine is provided. The washing machine includes a housing, a dehumidifier, and a filter assembly located between the dehumidifier and a plurality of containers, wherein the housing includes the plurality of containers for holding laundry, and the filter assembly includes a filter and a filter self-cleaning device. The method includes a dehumidification execution step of dehumidifying one of the containers selected and connected by the dehumidifier, wherein the airflow discharged from the selected container flows into the dehumidifier through the filter assembly, and a cleaning execution step of cleaning the filter by the filter self-cleaning device.

[0060] In some embodiments, the filter self-cleaning device cleans the filter by spraying, spraying, vibrating, or scraping.

[0061] It should be understood that the above general description and the following detailed description are merely illustrative and interpretive, and do not limit the invention described. Other features of the invention will become apparent from the description of the specification, claims, and accompanying drawings. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0062] [Figure 1] This is a perspective view of an exemplary integrated washing and drying machine according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 2] Figure 1 shows a partial cross-sectional view of an exemplary integrated washer-dryer according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 3] Figure 2 shows a partial enlarged view of an exemplary integrated washer-dryer according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 4] Figure 3 is an exploded view of an exemplary integrated washer-dryer according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 5] This is a perspective view of an exemplary drying assembly of an integrated washing and drying machine according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 6] This is a perspective view of a temperature sensor, a moisture absorption path, and a regeneration path according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 7] This is a schematic diagram of a washing machine according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 8] This is a schematic diagram of the dehumidification passage of a washing machine according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 9] This is a schematic diagram of the dehumidification passage of a washing machine according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 10] This is a schematic diagram of the dehumidification passage of a washing machine according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 11] This is a top view of a dehumidifier according to several embodiments. [Figure 12]This is a perspective view of several components of a dehumidifier according to several embodiments. [Figure 13] This is a rear view of a washing machine connected to a dehumidifier, according to several embodiments. [Figure 14] This is a perspective view of a dehumidifier connected to a washing machine in several embodiments. [Figure 15A] This is a top view of a dehumidifier circulation fan in several embodiments. [Figure 15B] This is a bottom view of a dehumidifier circulation fan in several embodiments. [Figure 15C] These are exploded views of different components of a dehumidifier's circulation fan in several embodiments. [Figure 16] This figure shows a lower casing for housing multiple components of a dehumidifier, including a circulation section, according to several embodiments. [Figure 17] This is a schematic diagram of the lower casing of a dehumidifier according to several embodiments. [Figure 18A] This is a schematic diagram of a roller assembly, a circulating fan, and a connector for air circulation in a dehumidifier, according to several embodiments. [Figure 18B] This is a schematic diagram of air circulation between a roller assembly, a circulating fan, and a connector, according to several embodiments. [Figure 18C] This is a schematic diagram illustrating a sealed connection between the connector and the roller area using a gasket in several embodiments. [Figure 19A] This is an exploded view of a roller assembly in several embodiments. [Figure 19B] This is a perspective view of a roller assembly meshing with a gear member driven by a drive motor according to several embodiments. [Figure 19C] This is a perspective view of a roller assembly connected to multiple auxiliary rollers according to several embodiments. [Figure 19D] This is a top view of a roller assembly connected to a plurality of auxiliary rollers provided in the lower casing, according to several embodiments. [Figure 19E]This is a top view of a plurality of rollers provided on the lower casing according to several embodiments. [Figure 20A] This is a schematic diagram of an air regeneration system based on several embodiments. [Figure 20B] This is a side view of an air regeneration system according to several embodiments. [Figure 21A] This is an exploded view of the lower casing of a dehumidifier in several embodiments. [Figure 21B] This is an exploded view of the roller area of ​​the lower casing in several embodiments. [Figure 22] This is an exploded view of a heating and regeneration system including a dehumidifier, according to several embodiments. [Figure 23A] This is an exploded view of a system including a roller assembly sandwiched between the upper roller casing and the lower dehumidifier casing, according to several embodiments. [Figure 23B] This is an exploded view of a system including the upper and lower roller casings according to several embodiments. [Figure 24A] This is a perspective view of a dehumidifier including a heating element according to several embodiments. [Figure 24B] This is a perspective view of the heating section according to several embodiments. [Figure 24C] This is a perspective view of the mesh plate used in the heating section in several embodiments. [Figure 24D] This is a top view of a mesh plate connecting multiple heating elements in a heating section according to several embodiments. [Figure 25] This is an exploded view showing the condensing section of a condenser attached to a lower casing in several embodiments. [Figure 26] This is a perspective view of a dehumidifier including a condensing section according to several embodiments. [Figure 27A] The condenser piping configurations in several embodiments are shown. [Figure 27B] The condenser piping configurations in several embodiments are shown. [Figure 28]This is a schematic diagram of several components included in a washing machine according to several embodiments. [Figure 29A] This is a perspective view of an exhaust pipe, including a filter screen, connected to a washing machine drum, according to several embodiments. [Figure 29B] This is a perspective view of an exhaust pipe, including a filter screen, connected to a washing machine drum, according to several embodiments. [Figure 29C] This is a perspective view of an exhaust pipe, including a filter screen, connected to a washing machine drum, according to several embodiments. [Figure 30A] This is a perspective view of an exhaust pipe, including a filter screen, connected to a washing machine drum, according to several embodiments. [Figure 30B] This is a perspective view of an exhaust pipe, including a filter screen, connected to a washing machine drum, according to several embodiments. [Figure 31A] This is a perspective view of some of the connectors in several embodiments. [Figure 31B] This is a perspective view of some of the connectors in several embodiments. [Figure 31C] This figure shows a connector for connecting a regeneration area that houses a condensation section and a regeneration section, according to several embodiments. [Figure 32A] This is a perspective view of some of the connectors in several embodiments. [Figure 32B] This is a perspective view of a connector in several embodiments. [Figure 32C] This is a perspective view of some of the connectors in several embodiments. [Figure 32D] This is a perspective view of some of the connectors in several embodiments. [Figure 32E] This is a perspective view of a connector in several embodiments. [Figure 33] This is a schematic diagram of several components included in a washing machine according to several embodiments. [Figure 34] This is a schematic diagram of several components included in a washing machine according to several embodiments. [Figure 35] This is a rear view of a washing machine in several embodiments. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0063] The following description will be made in detail with reference to the attached drawings. Wherever possible, the same reference numerals refer to the same or similar parts. While several exemplary embodiments have been described herein, modifications, changes, and other implementations are possible. For example, components shown in the attached drawings may be replaced, added, or modified. Therefore, the following detailed description is not limited to the disclosed embodiments and examples. Instead, the appropriate scope is defined by the attached claims.

[0064] The following description provides numerous examples to help understand the disclosure more thoroughly. However, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the disclosure can be implemented without one or more of these specific examples.

[0065] It should be noted that the terms used herein are for the purpose of describing specific embodiments and are not intended to limit the exemplary embodiments of the present invention. Where used herein, the singular form may include the plural form unless explicitly indicated by the context. Furthermore, where used in this disclosure, the terms “comprise” and / or “comprising” specify the presence of the aforementioned features, integers, steps, operations, elements and / or members, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, members and / or groups thereof.

[0066] Figure 1 is a perspective view of an integrated washer-dryer 100 (e.g., a built-in washer-dryer, an all-in-one washer-dryer) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 2 is a partial cross-sectional view of the exemplary integrated washer-dryer 100 in Figure 1 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. As shown in Figures 1 and 2, in some embodiments the integrated washer-dryer 100 of the present disclosure includes a water inlet (not shown), a water outlet (not shown), an inner drum 30, a drive member (not shown), and a drying module 20. In some embodiments, the drive member is connected to the inner drum 30 to provide power transmission for rotational driving of the inner drum 30. In some embodiments, the water inlet and water outlet are connected to the inner drum 30 (e.g., directly or indirectly through one or more parts). In some embodiments, the drying module 20 includes a moisture absorption passage 201, a regeneration passage 202, and a moisture absorption member 206. In some embodiments, the moisture absorption passage 201 includes a first air inlet 2011 and a first air outlet 2012. In some embodiments, a first air inlet 2011 and a first air outlet 2012 are connected to the inner drum 30 (for example, directly or indirectly through one or more parts). In some embodiments, a circulation fan 203 is positioned in the moisture absorption passage 201 to form a circulating airflow between the inner drum 30 and the moisture absorption passage 201. In some embodiments, a regeneration fan 205 is positioned in the regeneration passage 202 to form an exhaust moisture flow within the regeneration passage 202. In some embodiments, a moisture absorption member 206 is provided in the moisture absorption passage 201 so that the circulating airflow passes through the moisture absorption member 206. In some embodiments, the moisture absorption member 206 is configured to absorb moisture from the circulating airflow in the moisture absorption passage 201 when rotating and to discharge the absorbed moisture through the exhaust moisture flow via the regeneration passage 202.

[0067] In some embodiments, the integrated washer-dryer 100 may further include, but is not limited to, a housing 10, a controller (not shown), and the like. The inner drum 30 and drive members are located in the housing 10. In some embodiments, the inner drum 30 has a receiving space for receiving laundry such as clothes, and an opening 301 (e.g., a pick-and-place opening) is formed on the side of the housing 10 for loading and unloading laundry into the inner drum 30. A door 101 opens in the housing 10 at a position corresponding to the opening 301, and the door 101 is rotatably connected to the housing 10. The opening and closing of the door 101 may be operated manually by the user or electronically controlled.

[0068] In some embodiments, a display device (not shown) for displaying information related to the operating status of the integrated washer-dryer 100 is provided on one side or on the top of the housing 10. The display device includes, but is not limited to, a liquid crystal display or a light-emitting diode. In some embodiments, the housing 10 is further provided with one or more buttons, such as mechanical buttons operated by pressing or touch buttons operated by touch. In some embodiments, one or more buttons are used to input control commands to a controller for operating the integrated washer-dryer 100, and the controller controls corresponding components to execute the control commands accordingly. The controller may be implemented by various application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), digital signal processors (DSPs), digital signal processing devices (DSPDs), programmable logic devices (PLDs), field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), microcontrollers, microprocessors, or other electronic components.

[0069] When washing laundry, the user first places the laundry into the integrated washer-dryer 100 through the opening 301, adds detergent through the detergent addition port, and closes the door 101. At the user's command, under the control of the controller, water flows into the inner drum 30 from the water inlet through the water supply pipe connected to the water source. The user inputs wash and spin-dry commands using one or more buttons. The controller controls the drive members according to the wash command to rotate the inner drum 30 and drive it to wash the laundry. During washing, the wastewater flows through the drain hose to the drain outlet, completing the wash. Subsequently, the controller controls the drive members according to the spin-dry command to continuously spin-dry the inner drum 30, so that any excess water remaining on the laundry is removed by centrifugal force and discharged from the water outlet, accelerating the drying process of the laundry.

[0070] After the laundry is dried, the controller activates the circulation fan 203 and the regeneration fan 205 according to the drying command entered by the user, and controls them to rotate the moisture-absorbing member 206. As shown by the arrows in Figure 2, the circulating airflow is formed by the circulation fan 203 and circulates between the inner drum 30 and the moisture-absorbing passage 201. In some embodiments, when the circulation fan 203 rotates, a pressure difference is formed between the two sides of the circulation fan 203, creating an airflow that allows moist air from the inner drum 30 to enter the moisture-absorbing passage 201 via the first air inlet 2011 of the moisture-absorbing passage 201. Subsequently, the dehumidified air is discharged to the inner drum 30 via the first air outlet 2012 of the moisture-absorbing passage 201, causing the air to circulate between the inner drum 30 and the moisture-absorbing passage 201 and form a circulating airflow. The circulating airflow causes the humid air in the inner drum 30 to continuously enter the moisture absorption passage 201 via the first air inlet 2011, where moisture absorption is performed by the moisture absorption member 206. The dry air after moisture absorption is continuously discharged to the inner drum 30 via the first air outlet 2012 of the moisture absorption passage 201. In this way, any moisture remaining on the laundry in the inner drum 30 is removed by the above process in which the circulating airflow passes between the humid and dry air, allowing the laundry to be dried.

[0071] At the same time, the regeneration fan 205 is used to form a dehumidifying flow in the regeneration passage 202. Since the air inlet end 2022 and air outlet end 2021 of the regeneration passage 202 (see, for example, Figure 5) are located outside the inner drum 30, when the regeneration fan 205 rotates, a pressure difference is created on both sides of the regeneration fan 205, forming an airflow. Air from outside the inner drum 30 enters the regeneration passage 202 from the air inlet end 2022, then flows through the dehumidifying member 206 to remove moisture from the dehumidifying member 206, and the moisture can be discharged to the environment outside the inner drum 30 from the air outlet end 2021. In this way, by removing moisture from the dehumidifying member 206, the water absorption capacity of the dehumidifying member 206 can be maintained at a high level, and the water absorption effect can be improved.

[0072] During the drying process, as the moisture-absorbing member 206 rotates continuously, a portion of the moisture-absorbing member 206 that has absorbed moisture from the humid air in the moisture-absorbing passage 201 rotates into the regeneration passage 202, and the moisture on that portion of the moisture-absorbing member 206 is carried away by the regeneration airflow. After the moisture content of that portion of the moisture-absorbing member 206 decreases, that portion of the moisture-absorbing member 206 Moisture absorption As the passage 201 rotates, it can absorb more moisture. In this way, a decrease in the absorption effect due to saturation of the moisture-absorbing member 206 can be avoided.

[0073] The integrated washer-dryer 100 of this disclosure removes moisture from the humid air that enters the humidification passage 201 from the inner drum 30 using a moisture-absorbing member 206, and then discharges the dehumidified, dry air back into the inner drum 30. By continuous circulation, the moisture content in the inner drum 30 is reduced, thereby achieving the drying objective. As disclosed herein, the integrated washer-dryer 100 provided by this disclosure does not require an evaporator for heating and dehumidifying the humid air in the inner drum 30. The moisture absorption performance of the moisture-absorbing member 206 is not very sensitive to temperature changes. The moisture-absorbing member 206 is heated to release moisture during the dehumidification process. Therefore, it is possible to avoid the problem of low dehumidification effectiveness in low-temperature environments in conventional heat pump-based condensation or dehumidification systems, and a wider range of application environments can be provided.

[0074] In some embodiments, as shown in Figures 2, 3, and 4, a filter member 204 is further provided in the moisture absorption passage 201, and the filter member 204 is located on the side of the moisture absorption member 206 closer to the first air inlet 2011, for example, upstream of the moisture absorption member 206, so that the airflow is filtered before it enters the moisture absorption member 206. In some embodiments, a filter member is provided in the regeneration passage 202.

[0075] In some embodiments, the filter member 204 may have a mesh structure or any other structure capable of blocking debris, and is not particularly limited in this embodiment.

[0076] In some embodiments, the filter member 204 is located on the side of the moisture-absorbing member 206 closer to the first air inlet 2011 to filter the moist air entering the moisture-absorbing passage 201 and prevent debris in the moist air from coming into contact with the moisture-absorbing member 206 and affecting its operational performance. At the same time, it prevents lint from laundry from adhering to the moisture-absorbing member 206 and igniting when the moisture-absorbing member 206 is heated and detached, thereby damaging the moisture-absorbing member 206.

[0077] In some embodiments, a filter member, such as a filter screen, may be provided upstream of the regeneration fan 205 to filter out debris in order to prevent external contaminants from damaging the regeneration fan 205 and causing air pollution in the airflow discharged to the outside.

[0078] In some embodiments, a heating element is provided in the moisture absorption passage 201.

[0079] In some embodiments, the heat exchange process in the inner drum 30 increases the temperature of the incoming dry air, promoting the exchange of moisture from the laundry and thereby shortening the drying time. In some embodiments, a heating element is added to the moisture absorption passage 201, and the heating element is placed upstream or downstream of the moisture absorption element 206 to absorb moisture from the heated humid air or to heat the dry air after moisture absorption, allowing the dried heated air to enter the inner drum 30 from the first air outlet 2012. Since the air heated by the heating element has a high temperature, it raises the temperature inside the inner drum 30, promoting the evaporation of moisture from the laundry, resulting in higher drying efficiency and a better drying effect.

[0080] In some embodiments, the heating element dries the humid air together with the moisture-absorbing element 206, preventing the heating element from becoming too hot, thereby reducing the power consumption of the heating element and saving resources. In some embodiments, the heating element may be an electric heating wire with a heating function, a positive temperature coefficient (PTC) heater, etc. In some embodiments, the PTC heater consists of a ceramic heating element and an aluminum tube. In some embodiments, the PTC heater has the advantages of low thermal resistance and high heat exchange efficiency, and is an automatic, constant-temperature, energy-saving electric heater.

[0081] In some embodiments, as shown in Figure 4, the moisture-absorbing member 206 includes a moisture-absorbing roller assembly 2062 and a heating assembly 2061. In some embodiments, the heating assembly 2061 covers the regeneration region of the moisture-absorbing roller assembly 2062. In some embodiments, the moisture-absorbing region of the moisture-absorbing roller assembly 2062 is located in the moisture-absorbing passage 201. In some embodiments, the regeneration region is the region in the moisture-absorbing roller assembly 2062 through which the dehumidifying flow passes, and the moisture-absorbing region is the region in the moisture-absorbing roller assembly 2062 through which the circulating airflow passes.

[0082] In some embodiments, the area of ​​the regeneration region and the area of ​​the moisture absorption region can be determined according to the radial cross-sectional areas of the moisture absorption conduit and the regeneration conduit. In some embodiments, the radial cross-sectional area of ​​the moisture absorption conduit is larger than the radial cross-sectional area of ​​the regeneration conduit, and the area of ​​the regeneration region is smaller than the area of ​​the moisture absorption region, increasing the airflow rate of the moisture absorption conduit, and the majority of the moisture absorption roller assembly 2062 is located in the moisture absorption region to further improve moisture absorption efficiency and enhance the moisture absorption effect.

[0083] During the rotation process of the moisture-absorbing roller assembly 2062, each part of the moisture-absorbing roller assembly 2062 rotates from the moisture absorption passage 201 to the regeneration passage 202, and then from the regeneration passage 202 back to the moisture absorption passage 201. In some embodiments, each part of the moisture-absorbing roller assembly 2062 rotates from the moisture absorption region to the regeneration region, and then from the regeneration region back to the moisture absorption region, so that the part of the moisture-absorbing roller assembly 2062 in the moisture absorption region absorbs moisture from the humid air in the moisture absorption passage 201, then rotates to the regeneration region, where it is heated by the heating assembly 2061 to rapidly desorb the moisture from that part. The moisture is then carried by the exhaust flow to the air outlet end 2021 of the regeneration passage 202 and discharged to the outside. In this way, during the rotation process of the moisture-absorbing roller assembly 2062, moisture from the humid air in the moisture absorption passage 201 is continuously absorbed by the moisture-absorbing roller assembly 2062, and the moisture absorbed by the moisture-absorbing roller assembly 2062 is continuously discharged, Moisture-absorbing roller assembly 2062 consistently possesses good water absorption capacity, and its moisture absorption efficiency and effectiveness can be improved.

[0084] In some embodiments, as shown in Figure 4, the heating assembly 2061 includes a cover 20611. In some embodiments, the cover 20611 is Moisture-absorbing roller assemblyIt is provided above the regeneration area of ​​2062 (e.g., covering or partially covering). In some embodiments, the portion of the cover 20611 corresponding to the regeneration area (e.g., the portion above the regeneration area, or the portion connected to, communicating with, or otherwise interacting with the regeneration area) has an opening connected to the regeneration passage 202 (e.g., opening 20613 in Figure 3). In some embodiments, the cover 20611 includes a regeneration heating section 20612.

[0085] In some embodiments, the cover 20611 covers the regeneration area of ​​the moisture-absorbing roller assembly 2062 so as not to obstruct contact between the exhaust moisture flow and the portion of the moisture-absorbing roller assembly 2062 within the regeneration area, and is located on the side of the moisture-absorbing roller assembly 2062 away from the first air inlet 2011. In some embodiments, the contact area between the exhaust moisture flow and the moisture-absorbing roller assembly 2062 in the regeneration passage 202 is maximized so that more moisture can be carried and removed. In some embodiments, the cover 20611 is Moisture-absorbing roller assembly It is used to partition the moisture absorption area and the regeneration area of ​​2062 and to fix the regeneration heating unit 20612. In some embodiments, Moisture-absorbing roller assembly When 2062 rotates, the cover 20611 and heating assembly 2061 do not rotate. In some embodiments, the moisture-absorbing roller assembly 2062 rotates relative to the cover 20611 and heating assembly 2061, so that the regeneration heating unit 20612 heats the area of ​​the moisture-absorbing roller assembly 2062 that has rotated in the vicinity of the regeneration heating unit 20612. In some embodiments, the regeneration heating unit 20612 is positioned as close as possible to the moisture-absorbing roller assembly 2062 to better heat and dehydrate moisture in the regeneration area of ​​the moisture-absorbing roller assembly 2062.

[0086] In some embodiments, under the action of the regeneration fan 205, airflow enters the regeneration passage 202 from the outside, passes sequentially through the regeneration heating unit 20612 and the regeneration region of the moisture absorption roller assembly 2062, and is then discharged to the outside from the outlet of the regeneration passage 202. In some embodiments, the regeneration heating unit 20612 is located upstream of the regeneration region, and the heated airflow exchanges heat with the regeneration region to desorb moisture within it. In some embodiments, the regeneration heating unit 20612 may be located downstream of the regeneration region. In some embodiments, the regeneration heating unit 20612 may be provided both upstream and downstream of the regeneration region.

[0087] In some embodiments, a filter member, such as a filter screen, may be provided upstream of the regeneration fan 205 to prevent damage to the regeneration fan 205 by external contaminants and to prevent contamination of the air by the airflow discharged to the outside. In some embodiments, an air filter member, such as a HEPA filter screen, may be provided in the regeneration passage 202 downstream of the moisture absorption roller 20622.

[0088] In some embodiments, the regeneration heating unit 20612 can use a heating element, such as an electric heating wire or a PTC heater.

[0089] In some embodiments, as shown in Figure 4, the moisture absorption roller assembly 2062 includes a moisture absorption roller 20622 and a rotating part connected to rotate the moisture absorption roller 20622. In some embodiments, a shell 207 covers the outside of the moisture absorption roller 20622, and the moisture absorption roller 20622 can rotate relative to the shell 207 under the drive of the rotating part. In some embodiments, the shell 207 is connected to a moisture absorption line and a regeneration line, respectively. In some embodiments, the shell 207 has a connection port connected to the moisture absorption line and a connection port connected to the regeneration line, respectively. In some embodiments, the internal space of the shell 207 is divided into a portion connected to the moisture absorption passage 201 via a connection port connected to the moisture absorption line and a portion connected to the regeneration passage 202 via a connection port connected to the regeneration line.

[0090] In some embodiments, the moisture-absorbing roller 20622 has a disc-shaped structure with a certain thickness, Moisture-absorbing roller This reduces the space occupied by 20622, thereby allowing for, Moisture-absorbing roller assembly The overall volume of 2062 can be reduced. In some embodiments, the moisture-absorbing roller 20622 is formed from a material with high absorbency, such as cotton cloth or fibers. In some embodiments, the rotating part includes a rotating shaft 20621 and a motor connected to the rotating shaft 20621. The rotating shaft 20621 is located in the middle of the moisture-absorbing roller 20622 so that the rotating shaft 20621 is driven by the motor to rotate the rotating moisture-absorbing roller 20622 connected to the rotating shaft 20621. In some embodiments, a shell 207 can be used to house the moisture-absorbing roller 20622, the rotating shaft 20621 and the motor. The edge of the cover 20611 is fixedly connected to the shell 207, allowing the moisture-absorbing roller 20622 to rotate while preventing the cover 20611 from rotating. In some embodiments, the shell 207 is connected to a moisture-absorbing passage 201 and a regeneration passage 202 so as to allow smooth circulation of airflow in the moisture-absorbing passage 201 and the airflow in the regeneration passage 202.

[0091] In some embodiments, the integrated washer-dryer 100 includes a shell 207, and a moisture-absorbing member 206 is located within the shell 207. The moisture-absorbing member 206 is configured to be fixed, and the shell 207 is configured to rotate relative to the moisture-absorbing member 206. For example, a moisture-absorbing roller 20622 is configured to be fixed, and the shell 207 is configured to rotate relative to the moisture-absorbing roller 20622 via a rotation axis 20621. In some embodiments, the shell 207 may have inlets and outlets at central positions on both sides to communicate with a moisture-absorbing passage 201 and a regeneration passage 202. In some embodiments, a regeneration heating unit 20612 may be configured to rotate relative to the moisture-absorbing roller 20622, and the regeneration heating unit 20612 may rotate synchronously with the shell 207 or asynchronously, but is not limited herein, and when rotating, the regeneration heating unit 20612 may divide the moisture-absorbing roller 20622 into a moisture-absorbing area and a regeneration area. In some embodiments, the shell 207 is provided with openings that communicate with a moisture absorption passage 201 and a regeneration passage 202, and these openings are offset from the center. This can be achieved by general knowledge in the art, and the embodiments provided herein are not intended to be limiting.

[0092] In other embodiments, as shown in Figure 5, a condensing member 40 is provided in the regeneration passage 202. In some embodiments, the condensing member 40 is used to cool the dehumidifying flow in the regeneration passage 202 and to dry the dehumidifying flow. In some embodiments, in structures without a condensing member, the regeneration passage is configured to discharge the humid airflow in the form of water from the regeneration area. For integrated washer-dryers installed in bathrooms or laundry rooms, an increase in indoor air humidity can lead to a negative experience in hot and humid places. However, in dry places, an increase in humidity can improve indoor comfort. Thus, the condensing member 40 can be an option that users can select to suit different locations.

[0093] In some embodiments, the condensing member 40 may be an existing condensing device. In some embodiments, both the air inlet 2022 and air outlet 2021 of the regeneration passage 202 pass through the condensing device, and the air entering the regeneration passage 202 from the air inlet 2022 is cooled by the condensing member 40, causing some of the moisture in the air to condense into liquid and dry the air. The dry air passes through the regeneration area of ​​the moisture absorption roller assembly 2062, removing moisture from the moisture absorption roller assembly 2062. The air carrying moisture from the moisture absorption roller assembly 2062 passes through the condensing member 40, where the absorbed moisture condenses into liquid, reducing the amount of moisture discharged into the outside air and preventing a large amount of moisture from being discharged into the outside air and affecting the external humidity and environment. In some embodiments, the condensed moisture can be discharged through the drain pipe 401 of the condensing member 40. In some embodiments, to make the structure more compact and to facilitate user operation, the drain pipe 401 and the drain pipe for discharging wastewater from the inner drum 30 may be the same pipe.

[0094] In some embodiments, as shown in Figure 6, the integrated washer-dryer 100 may further include a controller and a humidity sensor 50 provided in the moisture absorption passage 201. In some embodiments, the controller is electrically connected to the humidity sensor 50 and the heating element, respectively. The controller can be used to control the on / off state of the heating element in accordance with the humidity detected by the humidity sensor 50. The controller may also control and adjust other parts of the dehumidifier, such as the circulation fan 203, the regeneration fan 205, and the roller assembly 2062, to adjust the humidity.

[0095] In some embodiments, a humidity sensor 50 is used to detect the humidity of the air in the moisture absorption passage 201. The controller compares the humidity detected by the humidity sensor 50 with a preset humidity threshold and maintains the humidity in a controlled state. dehumidifierOne or more parts of this can be further controlled and adjusted. In some embodiments, a temperature sensor is used to detect the temperature of the air in the moisture absorption passage 201. The controller then compares the temperature detected by the temperature sensor with a preset temperature. If the detected temperature is equal to or greater than the preset temperature, the controller closes the heating element. If the detected temperature is lower than the preset temperature, the controller opens the heating element. In this way, it is ensured that the circulating airflow has a relatively stable temperature, and damage to the laundry in the inner drum 30 caused by high-temperature circulating airflow can be avoided.

[0096] In some embodiments, a humidity sensor for detecting the humidity of the inner drum 30 is further provided inside the inner drum 30.

[0097] In some embodiments, a humidity sensor detects the humidity in the inner drum 30 and displays the detected humidity value on a display device in the housing 10, allowing the user to know the drying status inside the inner drum 30. The user can then control the drying time according to the humidity value.

[0098] In some embodiments, the integrated washer-dryer may include two or more humidity sensors 50, and one or more temperature sensors may be provided at different locations on the inner drum 30.

[0099] In some embodiments, by increasing the number of humidity sensors to detect humidity at different locations in the inner drum 30, the humidity conditions of the inner drum 30 can be comprehensively understood, avoiding inaccurate detections caused by using one humidity sensor to detect only one location. The number of humidity sensors can be designed according to the size of the inner drum 30 and is not strictly limited in these embodiments.

[0100] In some embodiments, as shown in Figure 1, the integrated washer-dryer 100 includes a housing 10, and the inner drum 30 and drive unit are located in the housing 10. In some embodiments, the regeneration passage 202 is located at least partially between the inner drum 30 and the housing 10. A second air outlet 102 and a second air inlet 103 are provided on the side of the housing 10, with the second air outlet 102 connected to the air outlet end 2021 of the regeneration passage 202 and the second air inlet 103 connected to the air inlet end 2022 of the regeneration passage 202 (see, for example, Figures 1 and 5). In some embodiments, when the integrated washer-dryer 100 is operating, the side of the housing 10 with the second air outlet 102 and the second air inlet 103 faces the user, and both the second air outlet 102 and the second air inlet 103 are located on this side, making it easier for the user to place the integrated washer-dryer.

[0101] In some embodiments, the side of the housing 10 on which the second air outlet 102 and second air inlet 103 are located is the side with the door 101. In this way, during the laundry drying process of the integrated washer-dryer, the second air outlet 102 and second air inlet 103 are not blocked by external objects (such as walls), so that sufficient air can enter the regeneration passage 202 and air can be discharged from the regeneration passage 202.

[0102] In some embodiments, the regeneration passage 202 is positioned between the inner drum 30 and the housing 10, and the space between the inner drum 30 and the housing 10 is fully utilized, making the structure of the integrated washer-dryer more compact.

[0103] Figure 7 is a schematic diagram of a washing machine 700 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. In some embodiments, the washing machine washes and / or dries laundry. In some embodiments, the washing machine 700 includes at least two containers 730 (for example, the containers are also called tubs, inner tubs, inner tub drums, and rotating drums) for holding laundry during the washing and / or drying process, a dehumidifier 750, and a filter assembly 770. In some embodiments, one container 730 may perform washing and drying, or drying only. In some embodiments, the washing machine 700 is an all-in-one washer-dryer that performs washing and drying functions. In some embodiments, the washing machine 700 is a dryer that performs drying functions only. In some embodiments, a dehumidifier 750 including multiple containers 730 selectively dehumidifies laundry in the corresponding containers 730. In some embodiments, a filter assembly 770 is used to filter the airflow flowing out of one or more containers 730 and entering the dehumidifier 750. In some embodiments, multiple containers 730 share the same dehumidifier 750, making the structure more compact and reducing the overall height or width of the washing machine 700, while simultaneously reducing the volume and cost of the washing machine 700. In some embodiments, a filter assembly 770 can be used to prevent flying lint, threads, dust, or other debris from entering the inside of the dehumidifier 750 or covering the surface of the dehumidifier 750 and affecting its dehumidifying effect.

[0104] In some embodiments, each container includes an air inlet passage 732 and an air outlet passage 734.

[0105] In some embodiments, the dehumidifier 750 is selected to dehumidify laundry in one container 730 at a time. In some embodiments, the dehumidifier 750 includes an intake section 522 connected to an air outlet passage 734 of the container 730, and an exhaust section 524 connected to an air inlet passage 732 of the container 730.

[0106] In some embodiments, the dehumidifier 750 includes a moisture absorption passage 520, a moisture discharge passage 540, and a moisture absorption and discharge member 560.

[0107] In some embodiments, the moisture-absorbing and dehumidifying member 560 is rotatably mounted in the moisture-absorbing passage 520 and the moisture-dehumidifying passage 540. When rotating, the moisture-absorbing and dehumidifying member 560 is configured to absorb moisture in the circulating airflow discharged from the container 730 into the moisture-absorbing passage 520 and to discharge the moisture through the moisture-dehumidifying passage 540 via the dehumidifying flow. In some embodiments, the moisture-absorbing and dehumidifying member 560 includes a moisture-absorbing region connected to the moisture-absorbing passage 520 and a moisture-dehumidifying region (or dehumidifying region) connected to the moisture-dehumidifying passage 540. In some embodiments, the moisture-absorbing and dehumidifying member 560 has a disc-shaped structure having a certain thickness. In some embodiments, the moisture-absorbing and dehumidifying member 560 is formed from a material with high absorbency, such as cotton cloth and / or fibers. In some embodiments, the moisture-absorbing and dehumidifying member 560 is driven by a drive mechanism (not shown), such as a drive motor, to rotate relative to the dehumidifying passage 540 and the moisture-absorbing passage 520.

[0108] In some embodiments, the moisture absorption passage 520 is a moisture absorption and dehumidification member 560 Intake side The intake section 522 located therein (for example, the moisture absorption region of the moisture absorption and dehumidification member 560), and the moisture absorption and dehumidification member 560 Exhaust sideThis includes an exhaust section 524 located at (for example, the dehumidification area of ​​the dehumidification absorption and dehumidification member 560). In some embodiments, the intake section 522 of the moisture absorption passage 520 forms the intake section 522 of the dehumidification device 750, and the exhaust section 524 of the moisture absorption passage 520 forms the exhaust section 524 of the dehumidification device 750. In some embodiments, the intake section 522 and the exhaust section 524 are in fluid communication with the air outlet passage 734 and the air inlet passage 732 of the container 730, respectively. In some embodiments, when it is necessary to dry laundry in any of the containers 730, the intake section 522 and the exhaust section 524 of the moisture absorption passage 520 are in fluid communication with the air outlet passage 734 and the air inlet passage 732 of the corresponding container 730, respectively. In some embodiments, communication with the air outlet passage 734 and the air inlet passage 732 of one or more other containers 730 that are not being dried is blocked. In some embodiments, a fan 526 is provided in the moisture absorption passage 520 to form a circulating airflow in the container 730 and the moisture absorption passage 520. In some embodiments, a heater is provided at the exhaust section 524 of the moisture absorption passage 520 to raise the temperature of the drying airflow entering the container 730 containing the laundry to be dried, thereby accelerating the drying process of the laundry in the container 730. In some embodiments, a condenser is provided at the intake section 522 of the moisture absorption passage 520 to pre-dehumidify the airflow to be dried discharged from the container 730. In some embodiments, the condenser is provided upstream of the filter assembly 770 in the airflow direction. Thus, the humidity of the airflow entering the moisture absorption and dehumidification member 560 can be reduced, and furthermore, some lint or fuzz can be carried away by the condensed water, extending the single-use life of the filter 720 of the filter assembly 770. For example, the frequency of cleaning the filter assembly 770 can be reduced. In some embodiments, a heater 542, a heat exchanger 544, and a fan 546 are provided in the dehumidification passage 540. In some embodiments, the heater 542 is located on the air inlet side of the dehumidification area, and the heat exchanger 544 is located on the air outlet side of the dehumidification area. In some embodiments, the fan 546 operates to generate a forced airflow, which is heated as it passes through the heater 542. The heated dry airflow flows through the dehumidification area, removing moisture from the area.In some embodiments, the heater 542 may be located near the moisture-absorbing and dehumidifying member 560 on the air outlet side of the dehumidifying region to heat the dehumidifying region of the moisture-absorbing and dehumidifying member 560 and promote the dehumidification of moisture in the dehumidifying region. In some embodiments, the airflow may be heated using the exhaust section of the heat exchanger 544 without the heater 542. In some embodiments, a filter device, such as a filter screen, may be provided at the intake section of the dehumidifying passage 540. In some embodiments, the filter device is located upstream of the dehumidifying region and / or the heater 542 and / or the fan 546 to protect the dehumidifying region and / or the heater 542 and / or the fan 546. During operation, the airflow to be dried (e.g., a humid airflow) discharged from the container 730 flows through the filter assembly 770 and then enters the moisture-absorbing region. The portion of the moisture-absorbing and dehumidifying member 560 in the moisture-absorbing region absorbs moisture, such as water vapor, in the airflow passing through it, reducing the humidity of the airflow passing through it and forming a dry airflow. The dry airflow that flows out from the moisture absorption area flows back into the container 730 for the next circulation through the exhaust section 524 of the moisture absorption passage 520 and the air inlet passage 732 of the container 730, forming a circulating airflow until the humidity in the container 730 reaches a predetermined value. In some embodiments, as the moisture absorption and dehumidification member 560 rotates, the portion of the moisture absorption and dehumidification member 560 that has absorbed moisture in the moisture absorption area rotates and enters the dehumidification area. Subsequently, the moisture is carried away by the heated dry airflow in the dehumidification area, and the dry portion of the moisture absorption and dehumidification member 560 can absorb moisture again when it rotates back into the moisture absorption area.

[0109] Figure 8 is a schematic diagram of several embodiments of the dehumidification passage 540 of the washing machine 100 of Figure 7 according to several embodiments of the present disclosure. As shown in Figure 8, in some embodiments, the heat exchanger 544 includes a cooling passage 5442 for passing a refrigerant such as condensed water, a ventilation passage for passing airflow, and a condensed water outlet 5446. In some embodiments, as the hot, humid airflow flowing out from the dehumidification area of ​​the dehumidifier 750 passes through the heat exchanger 544, it exchanges heat with the cooling passage 5442, and most of the moisture condenses into condensed water, which is then discharged from the condensed water outlet 5446. In some embodiments, the ventilation passage communicates with the dehumidification area (or dehumidification area) and a water outlet for discharging condensed water. The cooled, dry airflow is discharged from the exhaust port 5448 of the ventilation passage of the heat exchanger 544. In some embodiments, the exhaust port 5448 is connected to the air inlet of the fan 546, and a circulation circuit is formed in the dehumidification passage 540 to reduce the impact on the external environment.

[0110] Figure 9 is a schematic diagram of some embodiments of the exhaust passage 540 of the washing machine 100 of Figure 7 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. As shown in Figure 9, in some embodiments, the exhaust port 5448 of the heat exchanger 544 can be connected to the outside of the washing machine 100 in order to directly discharge the airflow processed by the heat exchanger 544 to the outside of the washing machine 100.

[0111] Figure 10 is a schematic diagram of several embodiments of the dehumidification passage 540 of the washing machine 100 of Figure 7 according to several embodiments of the present disclosure. As shown in Figure 10, in some embodiments, the air inlet passage 5462 of the fan 546 passes through the inside of the heat exchanger 544. As the hot, humid airflow discharged from the dehumidification area of ​​the dehumidifier 750 passes through the heat exchanger 544, it exchanges heat with the cold air in the air inlet passage 5462 of the fan 546, removing moisture from the hot, humid airflow and removing the temperature from the hot, humid airflow. The moisture is finally discharged from the exhaust port 5448 of the heat exchanger 544. In some embodiments, the airflow in the air inlet passage 5462 of the fan 546 is preheated as it passes through the heat exchanger 544, recovering at least some of the energy and saving energy.

[0112] In some embodiments, the heat exchanger 544 may be omitted, and the airflow discharged from the air outlet side of the dehumidification passage 540 is directly discharged to the outside of the washing machine 100.

[0113] In some embodiments, as shown in Figure 7, the dehumidifier 750 is selected to communicate fluidly with one of the multiple containers 730 via switching mechanisms 790, 792, and 794. In some embodiments, the switching mechanisms 790, 792, and 794 may include valves, solenoid valves, and the like.

[0114] In some embodiments, the moisture intake passage 520 of the dehumidifier 750 can be selected to fluidly communicate with any one of the containers 730 via switching mechanisms 790, 792, and 794. In some embodiments, the switching mechanisms 790, 792, and 794 include a first switching mechanism 790 located at the connection point between the exhaust section 524 of the dehumidifier 750 and the air inlet passage 732 of the container 730. In some embodiments, the switching mechanisms 790, 792, and 794 further include second switching mechanisms 792 and 794 located at the corresponding air outlet passages 734 of the container 730. In some embodiments, the first switching mechanism 790 and the second switching mechanism 792 can enable a connection between one container 730 and the intake section 522 and exhaust section 524 of the dehumidifier 750, and disconnect the connection between (one or more) other containers 730 and the intake section 522 and exhaust section 524 of the dehumidifier 750. In some embodiments, the first switching mechanism 790 and / or the second switching mechanisms 792 and 794 may be provided at the connection point between the exhaust section 524 and / or intake section 522 of the dehumidifier 750 and the air inlet passage 732 and / or air outlet passage 734 of the container 730. In some embodiments, the washing machine 700 includes a plurality of first switching mechanisms 790 and / or a plurality of second switching mechanisms 792, each provided at the air inlet passage 732 and / or air outlet passage 734 of each container 730 in a plurality of containers. In some embodiments, Figure 7 shows that the washing machine 700 is provided with two second switching mechanisms 792 and 794. In some embodiments, by opening one of the second switching mechanisms 792 and 794 and the first switching mechanism 790 corresponding to one container 730, the air inlet passage 732 and air outlet passage 734 of the corresponding container 730 are selected to open.

[0115] Switching mechanism 790 and the other of switching mechanisms 792 and 794 are closed so that one of the containers 730 is in fluid communication with the dehumidifier 750, and fluid communication between (one or more) other containers 730 and the dehumidifier 750 is blocked. In some embodiments, a filter assembly 770 is used to filter the airflow discharged from the containers 730 before it enters the dehumidifier 750, preventing foreign matter such as loose lint or flint discharged from the containers 730 from entering the dehumidifier 750. For example, the filter assembly 770 is used to prevent loose lint discharged from the containers 730 from entering the interior of the moisture-absorbing and dehumidifying member 560 or from coating the surface of the moisture-absorbing and dehumidifying member 560 and affecting its dehumidifying effect.

[0116] In some embodiments, the filter assembly 770 is used to filter the airflow discharged from the container 730 before it enters the dehumidifier 750, preventing foreign matter such as loose lint discharged from the container 730 from entering the dehumidifier 750. For example, the filter assembly 770 is used to prevent loose lint discharged from the container 730 from entering the interior of the moisture-absorbing and dehumidifying member 560 or from covering the surface of the moisture-absorbing and dehumidifying member 560 and affecting its dehumidifying effect.

[0117] In some embodiments, the filter assembly 770 is located between the intake section 522 of the dehumidifier 750, for example, a second switching mechanism, and the dehumidifier (for example, a moisture absorption / dehumidification member 560). In some embodiments, the filter assembly 770 may be located in the air outlet passage 734 of the container 730, and the second switching mechanism may be located downstream of the filter assembly 770 in the airflow direction. For example, along the airflow direction, the filter assembly 770 may be located between the second switching mechanism and the container 730, or the second switching mechanism may be located between the filter assembly 770 and the dehumidifier 750. In some embodiments, the second switching mechanism may be located upstream of the filter assembly 770 in the airflow direction. For example, along the airflow direction, the second switching mechanism may be located between the filter assembly 770 and the container 730, or the filter assembly 770 may be located between the second switching mechanism and the dehumidifier 750. In some embodiments, one or more filter assemblies 770 are provided. In some embodiments, if one filter assembly 770 is provided, it may be provided in the intake section 522 of the dehumidifier 750. In some embodiments, if multiple filter assemblies 770 are provided, they may each be provided in the air outlet passages 734 of multiple containers 730.

[0118] In some embodiments, the filter assembly 770 includes a filter 720 and a filter self-cleaning device 740. In some embodiments, the filter assembly 770 includes a removable filter 720 and its mounting bracket. If the filter 720 is removable, the user can manually clean the filter 720 according to sensor data. In some embodiments, the filter 720 may be cleaned after each operation is completed, or may be cleaned as appropriate, or may be cleaned as needed. In some embodiments, the filter 720 may be manually disassembled, removed, rinsed, wiped and / or cleaned, etc.

[0119] In some embodiments, the filter 720 includes, but is not limited to, a filter screen. In some embodiments, the mesh count of the filter screen is not limited and may be set appropriately or according to the requirements of the system. In some embodiments, a single-stage filtration may be used, and the filter 720 may be provided in the air outlet passage 734 of the container 730 or in the intake section 522 of the dehumidifier 750. In some embodiments, two-stage or multi-stage filtration may be used. In some embodiments, the filter 720 is provided in the air outlet passage 734 of the container 30 and in the intake section 522 of the dehumidifier 750 to enhance the filtration effect.

[0120] In some embodiments, the filter self-cleaning device 740 is used to automatically clean the filter 720 to ensure that the filtration function of the filter 720 operates properly. In some embodiments, the cleaning method of the filter self-cleaning device 740 includes liquid spraying, vibration, spraying, scraping, or cleaning. In some embodiments, the filter self-cleaning device 740 includes a spraying mechanism for spraying the filter 720, a vibration mechanism for vibrating the filter 720 (e.g., a vibration motor for vibrating the filter screen), a spraying mechanism for spraying the filter 720, and / or a scraping mechanism for scraping the filter 720. In some embodiments, the spraying mechanism includes a reverse airflow generated by the reverse rotation of a fan 526 in the moisture intake passage 520. For example, in the cleaning process, the direction of the reverse airflow passing over the filter 720 is opposite to the direction of the airflow passing over the filter 720 in the drying process. In some embodiments, the effect is better if the fan 526 is located at the intake section 522 of the moisture intake passage 520. In some embodiments, the fan for generating a reverse airflow to blow air onto the filter 720 may be a separate fan from fan 526. In some embodiments, the scraping mechanism includes a manually operated scraper or an electric scraper. For example, if the sensor signal detects that the filter 720 is partially blocked, the control system controls the electric scraper to scrape along the absorbent surface of the filter 720, removing lint and other debris adsorbed on the absorbent surface of the filter 720. In some embodiments, the washing machine controller can control a filter self-cleaning device 740 to actively and automatically clean the filter 720 properly.

[0121] Taking the liquid spraying method as an example, in some embodiments, the spraying mechanism of the filter self-cleaning device 740 includes a nozzle 742 and a water supply system 744 for supplying water to the nozzle. In some embodiments, the nozzle 742 faces the filter 720, and the water supply system 744 is connected to the water inlet circuit (not shown) of the washing machine via a switch such as a valve (not shown). The switch can be turned on and off by the washing machine's controller. In some embodiments, the nozzle 742 of the spraying mechanism of the filter self-cleaning device 740 is located on the side of the filter 720 closer to the dehumidifier 750 (e.g., the air outlet side away from the container 730). Foreign matter such as lint discharged from the container 730 is usually adsorbed on the side of the filter 720 away from the dehumidifier 750 (e.g., the air outlet side closer to the container 730). Therefore, the direction in which the fluid such as water sprayed by the spraying mechanism of the filter self-cleaning device 740 flows through the filter 720 is opposite to the direction in which the airflow discharged from the container 730 flows through the filter 720. In this way, the fluid sprayed by the spraying mechanism of the filter self-cleaning device 740 can easily detach the lint adsorbed on the filter 720 and the filter 720, and enter the drain passage of the washing machine 700 with the water flow and be discharged from the washing machine. For example, if the filter 720, for example, the filter screen, is inclined in the air outlet passage of the container 730 or the intake section 522 of the moisture absorption passage 520, the nozzle 742 of the spraying mechanism is located on the side of the filter screen closer to the dehumidifier 750 and above the centerline of the filter screen, so that the liquid sprayed from the nozzle 744 can cover as much of the entire filter screen as possible, and the filter screen can be effectively cleaned. In some embodiments, the filter screen may be arranged horizontally, vertically, partially inclined and partially vertically, or partially horizontal and partially inclined. The spraying direction of the nozzle 742 can be set to make it easier to spray as much of the entire area of ​​the filter 720 as possible when starting the self-cleaning process.

[0122] In some embodiments, when a liquid spray method is used, the filter 720 and the filter self-cleaning device 740 may be located at the intake 522 of the dehumidifying passage. The fluid after cleaning can flow from the intake 522 of the moisture absorption passage 520 through the air outlet passage 734 of any container 730 connected to the intake 522, towards the drain passage of the connected container 730, and then be discharged from the washing machine 700. For example, if the containers 730 are stacked vertically, during or after the cleaning process, the lower container 730 is connected to the intake 522 of the moisture absorption passage 520, and the connection between the upper container 730 and the intake 522 of the moisture absorption passage 520 is disconnected by the second switching mechanisms 792 and 794. For example, if it is necessary to dry clothes in the upper container 730 in Figure 7, the controller may control the first switching mechanism 790 to connect the exhaust section 524 of the dehumidifier 750 to the air inlet passage 732 of the upper container 730, and disconnect the connection between the exhaust section 524 of the dehumidifier 750 and the air inlet passage 732 of the lower container 730. At the same time, the controller may control the second switching mechanism 792 in the air outlet passage 734 of the upper container 730 to connect the intake section 522 of the dehumidifier 750 to the air outlet passage 734 of the upper container 730. The controller may further control the second switching mechanism 794 in the air outlet passage 734 of the lower container 730 to disconnect the connection between the intake section 522 of the dehumidifier 750 and the air outlet passage 734 of the lower container 730. In another example, if it is necessary to dry the clothes in the lower container 730 in Figure 7, the controller may control the first switching mechanism 790 to connect the exhaust section 524 of the dehumidifier 750 to the air inlet passage 732 of the lower container 730, and disconnect the connection between the exhaust section 524 of the dehumidifier 750 and the air inlet passage 732 of the upper container 730. At the same time, the controller may control the second switching mechanism 794 located in the air outlet passage 734 of the lower container 730 to connect the intake section 522 of the dehumidifier 750 to the air outlet passage 734 of the lower container 30. The controller may also control the second switching mechanism 792 located in the air outlet passage 734 of the upper container 730 to disconnect the connection between the intake section 522 of the dehumidifier 750 and the air outlet passage 734 of the upper container 730.If the filter 720 needs to be cleaned after drying, the controller may control a second switching mechanism 792 located in the air outlet passage 734 of the upper container 730 to disconnect the connection between the intake 522 of the dehumidifier 750 and the air outlet passage 734 of the upper container 730. The controller may further control a second switching mechanism 794 located in the air outlet passage 734 of the lower container 730 to connect the intake 522 of the dehumidifier 750 and the air outlet passage 734 of the lower container 730. After cleaning, the discharged liquid can pass through the air outlet passage 734 of the lower container 730 and then be discharged from the drain passage of the lower container 730. A valve may be used to achieve or disconnect the connection between the air outlet passage 734 of the lower container 730 and the drain passage of the lower container 730.

[0123] In some embodiments, during the drying process of the upper container 730, the second switching mechanism 792 connects the air outlet passage 734 of the upper container 730 to the intake section 522 of the dehumidifier 750, while simultaneously disconnecting the connection between the air outlet passage 734 of the lower container 730 and the intake section 522 of the dehumidifier 750. When spraying and cleaning the filter 720, the second switching mechanism 794 is controlled to open for a short time to discharge the sprayed water into the lower container 730 or the drainage passage. During the drying process of the lower container 730, the second switching mechanism 792 disconnects the connection between the air outlet passage 734 of the upper container 730 and the intake section 522 of the dehumidifier 750, and at the same time, the second switching mechanism 794 controls the lower container 730 so that the airflow from the lower container 730 flows through the filter 720 to the dehumidifier 750, and the liquid for spraying and cleaning the filter 720 flows in the opposite direction to the airflow toward the lower container 730 or the drain passage. Air outlet passage Maintain the connection between 734 and the intake section 522 of the dehumidifier 750.

[0124] In some embodiments, when a liquid spraying method is used, a filter 720 and a filter self-cleaning device 740 may also be provided in the air outlet passage 734 of the container 730. For example, the filter 720 and the filter self-cleaning device 740 may be provided in the air outlet passage 734 of each container 730. The cleaned liquid is discharged through the air outlet passage 734 of the corresponding container 730 and through the drain passage of the container 730.

[0125] In some embodiments, the water flow from the filter self-cleaning device 740 can flow through a separately provided fluid conduit (e.g., a water storage bucket or a drain conduit for the lowest container 730) to the drain conduit for the water storage bucket or any of the containers 30. In this case, the second switching mechanism is provided at the junction of the air outlet passage 734 of the upper container 730 and the air outlet passage 734 of the lower container 730, thereby enabling or disconnecting the connection between the air outlet passages 734 of the upper and lower containers 730 and the intake section 522 of the dehumidifier 750.

[0126] In some embodiments, the cleaning frequency can be set. For example, the filter 720 is cleaned after each dehumidification cycle of the laundry. The filter 720 may be cleaned after multiple dehumidification cycles. Parameters such as spray time and spray water velocity may be set for each cleaning cycle. The spray time and spray water velocity for each cleaning cycle may be fixed or adjustable. For example, if the filter 720 is cleaned after each dehumidification cycle, the spray time can be relatively short and the spray water velocity can be relatively slow. If the filter 720 is cleaned after multiple dehumidification cycles, the spray time can be relatively long and the spray water velocity can be relatively fast. A sensor may be provided on the filter 720, and if it is detected that the filter 720 is becoming more clogged, for example, if the air pressure in the pipeline drops to a certain threshold, it indicates that the filter 720 is severely clogged, and the washing machine controller may increase the spray time and / or spray water velocity of the spray mechanism to increase the cleaning intensity.

[0127] In some embodiments, the container 730 for storing clothes may be the clothes tub of a washing machine or the clothes tub of a dryer. In some embodiments, at least two containers 730 for storing clothes may be stacked vertically on top of each other or stacked horizontally. In some embodiments, the washing machine 700 in Figure 7 may be a washing machine and include an upper washing tub and a lower washing tub stacked on top of each other. In some embodiments, the washing machine 700 in Figure 7 may be an all-in-one washer-dryer. The upper clothes tub may be the inner tub of a dryer and the lower clothes tub may be the inner tub of a washing machine, or the lower clothes tub may be the inner tub of a dryer and the upper clothes tub may be the inner tub of a washing machine. washing machine 700 may be a clothes dryer, the upper clothes storage tub may be the inner tub of the upper dryer, and the lower clothes storage tub may be the inner tub of the lower dryer.

[0128] Some embodiments of this disclosure further provide a method for using a washing machine. The method includes the following steps:

[0129] In the dehumidification step, the dehumidifier 750 is fluidly connected to one of the containers 730 and dehumidifies the clothes contained in the container. The airflow leaving the connected container 730 passes through the filter assembly 770 before entering the dehumidifier 750.

[0130] In the cleaning step, the filter self-cleaning device 740 cleans the filter 720.

[0131] In some embodiments, the dehumidification step further includes controlling the temperature of the airflow that enters the container 730 after being discharged from the dehumidifier 750 to a predetermined temperature or lower. In some embodiments, a temperature sensor may be provided near the air inlet of the container 730. When the sensor detects that the temperature of the airflow entering the air inlet of the container 730 is higher than the predetermined temperature, for example, 75°C, the controller controls the heating temperature of the heater 542, for example by lowering the heating temperature to lower the temperature of the airflow entering the dehumidification area, lower the temperature of the moisture absorption and dehumidification member 560, and lower the temperature of the airflow that flows out from the moisture absorption area and enters the container 730.

[0132] In some embodiments, the filter self-cleaning device 740 can clean the filter 720 by methods such as spraying, blowing, vibrating, or scraping.

[0133] In some embodiments, the washing machine 700 provided by embodiments of the present disclosure has at least the following features and advantages.

[0134] By having multiple containers share the same dehumidifier 750, the structure of the washing machine 700 can be simplified, reducing the overall height or width of the washing machine 700, and lowering the overall volume and cost of the device. By using a filter, foreign matter such as scattered lint can be prevented from entering the inside of the dehumidifier 750 or from covering the surface of the dehumidifier 750 and affecting its dehumidifying effect. In some embodiments, the filter assembly 770 includes a filter self-cleaning device 740 for automatically cleaning the filter 720, thereby providing strong protection to prevent the filtration function of the filter 720 from deteriorating with extended use and extending the life of the dehumidifier 750.

[0135] Figure 11 is a top view of a dehumidifier 1100 according to several embodiments. In some embodiments, the dehumidifier 1100 can work in cooperation with any type of washing machine (e.g., washing machine 100 or washing machine 1300 shown in Figure 13), such as an all-in-one washer-dryer, dryer, or washing machine, to dry laundry. In some embodiments, the dehumidifier 1100 includes a circulation unit 1110, a regeneration unit 1120, a condensing unit 1130, a roller unit 1140, a drive motor 1144 that drives the rollers in the roller unit 1140 to rotate, and a heating unit 1150. In some embodiments, the condensing unit 1130 includes a water inlet 1132 and a water outlet 1134 for water circulation. In some embodiments, the dehumidifier 1100 may be connected to one or more mounting members 1190 (e.g., mounting brackets), which are used to attach and secure the dehumidifier 1100 to the washing machine, as shown in the exemplary embodiment in Figure 14. In this disclosure, the dehumidifier 1100 may also be called a drying module.

[0136] Figure 12 is a perspective view of several components of the dehumidifier 1100 in Figure 11 according to several embodiments. In some embodiments, the circulation unit 1110 includes a circulation fan 1210 for circulating airflow between the inner drum and roller unit 1140 of the washing machine and removing moisture from the humid air circulating in the inner drum. In some embodiments, the circulation fan 1210 performs a similar function to the circulation fan 203 of the integrated washer-dryer 100. In some embodiments, the regeneration unit 1120 includes a regeneration fan 1220 for forming an exhaust humidity flow. In some embodiments, the regeneration fan 1220 performs a similar function to the regeneration fan 205 of the washing machine 100. In some embodiments, the condensing unit 1130 includes a condenser 1230. In some embodiments, the condenser 1230 performs a similar function to the condenser of the condensing member 40 of the washing machine 100. In some embodiments, the roller section 1140 may be divided into a moisture absorption region 1240 (e.g., a dehumidification region connected to or provided in the moisture absorption passage) and a dehumidification region 1250 corresponding to the heating section 1150 (e.g., a regeneration region connected to or provided in the regeneration passage, corresponding to the heating section 1150 in Figure 11). In some embodiments, a portion of the roller assembly 1900 (and a corresponding portion of the roller 1914 (Figure 19A)) is connected to or provided in the moisture absorption passage (e.g., the moisture absorption region 1240) and configured to absorb moisture from the damp laundry in the drum 1302. Other parts of the roller assembly 1900 (and corresponding other parts of the roller 1914) are connected to or located in a regeneration passage (e.g., a dehumidification area 1250) to remove moisture absorbed from the roller 1914 and "regenerate" parts of the roller assembly 1900 or roller 1914 so that they can absorb more moisture when they rotate to the moisture absorption area 1240. As the roller assembly 1900 rotates, parts of the roller 1914 that were previously in the moisture absorption area 1240 and absorbed moisture move to the dehumidification area 1250, where the absorbed moisture is discharged to the regeneration passage via a dehumidification flow, and parts of the roller 1914 that were previously in the dehumidification area 1250 and had their absorbed moisture removed move to the moisture absorption area 1240 to absorb more moisture from the drum 1302.In some embodiments, the roller assembly 1900 (Figure 18A) performs a function similar to that of the moisture-absorbing roller assembly 2062 (Figure 4) of the washing machine 100.

[0137] In some embodiments, the moisture absorption passage is a passage that allows airflow generated by a fan (e.g., a circulation fan 1210) to flow from the drum 1302 to a region on the moisture absorption and dehumidification structure to absorb moisture contained in the airflow. In some embodiments, as shown in Figures 11 and 12, moist air containing moisture from the drum 1302 flows out of the drum 1302 under the drive of the circulation fan 1210, passes through the circulation fan 1210, and enters the roller assembly 1900 (e.g., moisture absorption region 1240) to absorb moisture.

[0138] In some embodiments, the dehumidification passage is a passage that allows airflow driven by a fan (e.g., a regeneration fan 1220) to flow through the roller assembly 1900 (e.g., after the moisture absorption area 1240 has rotated into the dehumidification area 1250, or after it has been heated by the heating unit 1150) toward one or more members provided in the dehumidification passage to remove moisture from the dehumidification area 1250 of the roller assembly 1900. In some embodiments, as shown in Figures 11 and 12, the regeneration fan 1220 generates airflow, for example, from the atmosphere or the outlet of the condenser 1230, which flows toward the heating unit 1150, after which the heated airflow flows toward the dehumidification area 1250 of the roller assembly 1900, and then flows toward the condenser 1230 to condense the moisture in the heated airflow into water. The dry, cold air that has passed through the condenser 1230 may be discharged into the atmosphere or recirculated to the inlet of the regeneration fan 1220. In some embodiments, the dehumidifier 1100 includes a connector 1182 (shown in Figure 18A) that connects to a circulation fan 1210, and the connector 1182 is connected to the air outlet of the washing machine's inner drum (e.g., the rotating drum 1302). In some embodiments, moist air containing moisture from the laundry flows out of the rotating drum 1302 and exits the rotating drum 1302 via a circulating airflow driven by the circulation fan 1210. In some embodiments, the airflow communication between the rotating drum and the dehumidifier 1100 is similar to the airflow communication shown in Figures 1 to 5.

[0139] In some embodiments, the dehumidifier 1100 includes a connector 1180 which is connected to at least a portion of the roller section 1140 from the casing (upper roller casing 1170 in Figure 23A). extensionThe connector 1180 can be used to connect the roller section 1140 on the dehumidifier 1100 to the inner drum for holding laundry in a washing machine, for example, the rotating drum 1302 of a washing machine 1300 in Figure 13. In some embodiments, the roller section 1140 (e.g., its moisture absorption area 1240 and corresponding moisture absorption passage) has an air inlet and an air outlet, respectively, connected (e.g., directly or indirectly via one or more other members) to the inner drum of the washing machine. In some embodiments, the connector 1180 is connected to the air inlet of the rotating drum 1302 to allow dry air to flow into the rotating drum 1302 after the dehumidification process is complete. In some embodiments, the lower part 1184 of the connector 1180 is formed from a flexible bellows hose or bellows hose to prevent vibrations of the rotating drum 1302 during operation from being transmitted to the entire dehumidifier 1100.

[0140] In some embodiments, a regeneration fan 1220 (similar to a regeneration fan 205) is configured to form an exhaust airflow in the regeneration passage. In some embodiments, a moisture absorption region 1240 is provided in the moisture absorption passage, and the circulating airflow passes through the moisture absorption region 1240. In some embodiments, a dehumidification region 1250 is provided in the regeneration passage, and the exhaust airflow passes through the dehumidification region 1250. In some embodiments, a portion of the roller assembly 1900 provided in the moisture absorption region 1240 is configured to absorb moisture from the circulating airflow in the moisture absorption passage. When this portion that has absorbed moisture rotates to the dehumidification region 1250, the absorbed moisture is discharged through the exhaust airflow. In some embodiments, after the moisture has been removed and discharged, when the “regeneration” portion of the roller assembly 1900 rotates to the moisture absorption region 1240, it can absorb more moisture from the circulating airflow.

[0141] In some embodiments, the roller section 1140 can be divided into two or more regions, for example, three regions. For example, in addition to the moisture absorption region 1240 (e.g., dehumidification region) and the dehumidification region 1250 (e.g., regeneration region or heating region), a fan-shaped cooling region (not shown) may be provided downstream of the regeneration region. Thus, the heated air from the regeneration region (after being heated) can then pass through the cooling region to reach the moisture absorption region, thereby improving the dehumidification effect.

[0142] In some embodiments, one or more rollers (e.g., two rollers) may be used to alternate between moisture absorption and regeneration. Therefore, an air inlet and an air outlet are provided on the drum for each of the two or more rollers. In some embodiments, a pair of air inlets and air outlets are provided on the drum, and the air inlets and air outlets branch into two conduits, each connected to two rollers. In some embodiments, when the first roller absorbs moisture, the second roller performs dehumidification (regeneration). In some embodiments, when a predetermined switching mechanism is triggered, such as during a predetermined time period, or when saturation of the moisture absorption roller is detected, the airflow path is switched via the switching mechanism to initiate dehumidification by the first roller and moisture absorption by the second roller.

[0143] In some embodiments, instead of using rotating rollers, other types of (one or more) moisture absorption and dehumidification structures can be used, such as a crawler transmission device that transmits from a moisture absorption passage to a dehumidification passage, or a planar moisture absorption and dehumidification member that performs reciprocating motion. For example, the moisture absorption passage and the dehumidification passage can be arranged alternately on a single plane. The moisture absorption and dehumidification structure may translate between the two passages, with the moisture absorption member and the dehumidification member each performing the moisture absorption and dehumidification process, and these two members may perform the process alternately during the translational motion. After translation, the moisture absorption and dehumidification processes are performed alternately on different regions.

[0144] In some embodiments, in a circular moisture absorption and dehumidification structure, the drive mechanism can be driven to rotate the circular structure relative to the moisture absorption and regeneration passages, or to rotate the moisture absorption and regeneration passages relative to a turntable. In some embodiments, if the moisture absorption and dehumidification structure includes a transmission belt, the drive mechanism can be driven to perform linear (or translational) motion relative to the moisture absorption and regeneration passages, or to perform linear motion relative to the transmission belt. In some embodiments, two or more moisture absorption members are provided, and the drive mechanism is used to drive different moisture absorption members (or moisture absorption and regeneration passages) and to alternately position the different moisture absorption members in the moisture absorption and regeneration passages.

[0145] Figure 13 is a rear view of a washing machine 1300 connected to a dehumidifier 1100 shown in Figure 11, according to several embodiments. In some embodiments, the dehumidifier 1100 is mounted on top of the washing machine 1300. In some embodiments, the dehumidifier 1100 may be located on one side, rear, or bottom of the washing machine 1300. The washing machine 1300 includes a rotating drum 1302 for receiving, washing, and / or drying laundry. When in operation, the rotating drum 1302 rotates around a rotation axis 1304 (perpendicular to the plane of the display). In some other embodiments, the rotating drum may rotate along a rotation axis parallel to the display and perpendicular to the ground, or along a rotation axis parallel to the display and parallel to the ground, or in any other suitable direction. In some embodiments, the dehumidifier 1100 is connected to the chamber of the rotating drum 1302 via a connector 1182 which connects to a circulation fan 1210. In some embodiments, the connector 1182 shown in Figures 12 and 13 includes a flexible, stretchable, and bendable hose, such as a corrugated hose, and is used to connect the circulation fan 1210 to the air outlet of the rotating drum 1302. The connector 1182 can prevent vibrations of the rotating drum 1302 during operation from being transmitted to the dehumidifier 1100.

[0146] Figure 14 is a perspective view of the dehumidifier 1100 shown in Figure 11 according to several embodiments, where the dehumidifier 1100 is connected to the top of the washing machine 1300. In some embodiments, the dehumidifier 1100 is mounted on the top of the washing machine 1300. As shown in Figure 11, the dehumidifier 1100 may be connected to multiple mounting brackets 1190, for example, multiple mounting brackets provided on the rear, left, and right sides for mounting the dehumidifier 1100 to the top frame of the washing machine 1300, as shown in Figures 11 and 12. For example, the top frame of the washing machine includes a rear rack 1310, a left rack 1312, and a right rack 1314, respectively. In some embodiments, the dehumidifier 1100 is mounted on the top of the washing machine 1300, with a rear frame 1320 providing space and connections for various electrical wiring and conduits. In some embodiments, the dehumidifier 1100 is mounted to the top frame of the washing machine 1300 as a separate integrated module. As shown in Figures 11, 12, and 14, the dehumidifier 1100 is attached and secured to the rear rack 1310, left rack 1312, and right rack 1314 of the top frame of the washing machine 1300 by appropriate means such as clamping, locking, or suspension using appropriate connecting parts (e.g., mounting bracket 1190). In some embodiments, the mounting bracket 1190 is attached to the continuous, integrated lower casing of the dehumidifier 1100. extension The dehumidifier 1100 is mounted (for example, connected to or detachably connected to the lower casing) to the top frame, locked and secured, thereby mounting and securing the dehumidifier 1100 to the washing machine 1300. The dehumidifier 1100 does not directly contact the outer surface of the rotating drum, thus preventing vibrations of the rotating drum during operation from being transmitted to the drying module and affecting the dehumidifier 1100, for example, the roller section 1140.

[0147] In some embodiments, to minimize the height of the washing machine 1300, two or more parts of the dehumidifier 1100 located at the top of the rotating drum 1302 (i.e., the roller section 1140 including the moisture absorption area 1240 and the dehumidification area 1250 (or regeneration area), the circulation section 1110 including the circulation fan 1210, the regeneration section 1120 including the regeneration fan 1220, and / or the condensing section 1130 including the condenser 1230) are all located in a single plane (e.g., a horizontal plane substantially parallel to the ground, or a vertical plane substantially perpendicular to the ground). In some embodiments, the roller section 1140 including the roller assembly 1900 is located adjacent to at least one of the circulation section 1110 including the circulation fan 1210, the regeneration section 1120 including the regeneration fan 1220, and the condensing section 1130 including the condenser 1230. For example, these four components are adjacent to each other. In another example, the roller assembly 1900 (or other dehumidifying structure of a different shape) is adjacent to each of the following: a circulation section 1110 including a circulation fan 1210, a regeneration section 1120 including a regeneration fan 1220, and a condensing section 1130 including a condenser 1230, as shown in the embodiment in Figure 12. In some embodiments, the circulation section 1110 including the circulation fan 1210 and the condensing section 1130 including the condenser 1230 are located adjacent to and opposite the regeneration section 1120 including the regeneration fan 1220. In some embodiments, the circulation section 1110 including the circulation fan 1210, the roller section 1140 including the roller assembly 1900, the regeneration section 1120 including the regeneration fan 1220, and the condensing section 1130 including the condenser 1230 are located substantially on the same plane. In some embodiments, in order to place two members substantially in the same plane, the upper surface of one member and the upper surface of another member may be placed substantially in the same plane, or the lower surface of one member and the lower surface of another member may be placed substantially in the same plane, or the upper surface of one member and the lower surface of another member may be placed substantially in the same plane. In some embodiments, in order to place two members substantially in the same plane, the center point (e.g., geometric center point) of one member and the center point of another member may be placed substantially in the same plane, or the gravity center point of one member and the gravity center point of another member may be placed substantially in the same plane, or the geometric center point of one member and the geometric center point of another member may be placed substantially in the same plane. In some embodiments, dehumidifierBy arranging multiple components of the 1100 on the same plane, storage space can be significantly reduced, making the structure of the washing machine 1300 more compact. For example, as shown in Figure 11, the dehumidifier 1100 includes one or more components therein, such as all the roller sections 1140, circulation section 1110, regeneration section 1120, and condensing section 1130, all located on the same horizontal plane. In another example, the roller section 1140 may be located on the same plane as one or two components of the circulation section 1110, regeneration section 1120, and condensing section 1130. For example, at least one face of one component lies substantially coplane with at least one face of another component. In yet another example, the geometric center point or gravity center point of one component and the geometric center point or gravity center point of another component lie substantially coplane. In some embodiments, the dehumidifier 1100 may be located on top of the washing machine 1300 as shown in Figure 13, on the back of the washing machine as shown in Figure 33, on the bottom of the washing machine as shown in Figure 34, or in any other suitable space inside the washing machine.

[0148] In some embodiments, two or more axes of rotation of two or more rotating members of the roller assembly 1900 (Figure 18A), circulation fan 1210, and regeneration fan 1220 are parallel to each other. For example, the axes of rotation of the roller assembly 1900, circulation fan 1210, and regeneration fan 1220 (e.g., corresponding to their respective axes of rotation) are parallel to each other. In some embodiments, one or more axes of rotation of the roller assembly 1900, circulation fan 1210, and regeneration fan 1220 are perpendicular to the upper shell of the washing machine 1300. In some embodiments, one or more of the axes of rotation of the roller assembly 1900 in the roller section 1140, the axis of rotation of the circulation fan 1210 in the circulation section 1110, and the axis of rotation of the regeneration fan 1220 in the regeneration section 1120 are parallel to each other and perpendicular to the axis of rotation of the rotating drum 1302 for holding the laundry of the washing machine 1300. In some embodiments, the airflow conduits between different components of the dehumidifier 1100 are connected in a more compact space while achieving high-efficiency dehumidification performance.

[0149] In some embodiments, the overall height of the washing machine is related to the combined size of the diameter of the rotating drum 1302 and the thickness of the dehumidifier 1100 (including the shell containing the dehumidifier 1100) located above the rotating rollers. In some embodiments, the overall width or depth of the washing machine is related to the combined size of the diameter of the rotating drum 1302 and the diameter of the roller section 1140. In some embodiments, the circulation fan 1210, the regeneration fan 1220 and / or the condenser 1230 are located in one or more corners between the outer shell of the washing machine 1300 and the rotating drum 1302 to make the washing machine design more compact. In some embodiments, the circulation fan 1210, the regeneration fan 1220, the condenser 1230, the water conduits connecting different components, the air conduits connecting different components and / or the electrical wiring connecting different components can be located in appropriate horizontal or vertical space to make the design more compact without affecting performance.

[0150] In some embodiments, as shown in Figures 11 to 14, the rotation axes of the rotating members of the roller section 1140 (e.g., along the rotation axis 1142), the rotation axes of the circulation fan 1210 (e.g., along the rotation axis 1112), and the rotation axes of the regeneration fan 1220 (e.g., along the rotation axis 1122) are not coplanar with the rotation axis of the rotating drum 1302 of the washing machine 1300 (e.g., along the rotation axis 1304), but are perpendicular to the rotation axis of the rotating drum 1302 of the washing machine 1300. In some embodiments, the rotation axes of the rotating members of the roller section 1140, the rotation axes of the circulation fan 1210, and the rotation axes of the regeneration fan 1220 are distributed on one or both sides of the rotation axis of the rotating drum 1302. In some embodiments, the diameter of the circulation fan 1210 and the diameter of the rotating member of the roller section 1140 are larger than the diameter of the regeneration fan 1220. Therefore, the rotation axes of the roller section 1140 and the circulation fan 1210 are not coplanar with the rotation axis of the rotating drum 1302, but are perpendicular to the rotation axis of the rotating drum 1302 and are distributed on both sides of the rotation axis of the rotating drum 1302. For example, as shown in Figure 14, the rotation axis of the roller section 1140 is provided on one side of the rotation axis of the rotating drum 1302, and the rotation axis of the circulation fan 1210 is provided on the other side of the rotation axis of the rotating drum 1302.

[0151] Figures 15A and 15B are top views (e.g., viewed from the upper casing) and bottom views (e.g., viewed from the impeller side, opposite to the upper casing side) of the circulation fan 1210 of the dehumidifier 1100 in Figure 11, respectively, according to several embodiments. Figure 15C is an exploded view of different components of the circulation fan 1210 of the dehumidifier 1100 in Figure 11, according to several embodiments. In some embodiments, the circulation fan 1210 includes a motor 1610, an upper casing 1620 (e.g., spiral shape), a gasket 1630, and an impeller 1640. In some embodiments, the spiral casing 1620 includes one or more grooves, snaps and / or clips used to mount and secure electrical wiring and / or conduits. In some embodiments, the spiral casing 1620 has a shape that satisfies fluid design requirements to provide airflow passages that enable the operation of the dehumidifier 1100 to have optimized or maximized airflow and airflow velocity.

[0152] Figure 16 shows a lower casing 1160 for housing several components (including a circulation unit 1110) of a dehumidifier 1100 according to several embodiments. In some embodiments, the lower casing 1160 is divided into several areas for installing the components of the dehumidifier 1100, including a circulation fan area 1650 for housing a circulation fan 1210 therein. In some embodiments, a volute casing 1620, a motor 1610, and an impeller 1640 are screwed together into the circulation fan area 1650 of the lower casing 1160. In some embodiments, the volute casing 1620 is provided with a groove for mounting a gasket 1630. In some embodiments, as shown in Figures 15C and 16, the lower casing 1160 includes appropriate grooves for mounting the gasket 1630 to the volute casing 1620 and for fixing and sealing the circulation fan 1210 to the lower casing 1160.

[0153] In some embodiments, the lower casing 1160 of the dehumidifier 1100 is a continuous, one-piece casing. In some embodiments, the lower casing 1160 includes a plurality of mounting brackets 1190 for attaching and securing the entire module of the dehumidifier 1100 to the washing machine frame (shown in Figures 11 and 12). In some embodiments, the lower casing 1160 is divided into a plurality of areas for mounting the various components of the dehumidifier 1100, including a roller area 1660, a circulation fan area 1650, a condenser area 1670, and a regeneration mounting area 1680 for mounting the regeneration fan 1220. In some embodiments referring to Figure 15C, the circulation fan 1210 includes a fan impeller 1640 and an upper casing (e.g., a volute casing 1620) covering the fan impeller 1640. The circulation fan 1210 is held and secured in the circulation fan area 1650. In some embodiments, the regeneration fan 1220 is an integrated or assembled fan mounted in the corresponding regeneration mounting area 1680 of the lower casing 1160. In some embodiments, the roller area 1660 is divided into multiple passages to separate the moisture absorption area 1240 and the dehumidification area 1250 (heating section 1150), and the airflow within the roller area 1660 is guided by a pressure difference.

[0154] Figure 17 is a schematic diagram of the lower casing 1160 of the dehumidifier 1100 according to several embodiments. In some embodiments, the connector 1182 is screwed to the lower casing 1160 via a plate 1186 in the circulation fan area 1650. Figure 18A is a schematic diagram of the roller assembly 1900 of the roller area 1140 (including, for example, the roller 1914 and other related components shown in Figure 19), the connector 1180 for connecting the roller area 1140 on the dehumidifier 1100 to the rotating drum 1302, the circulation fan 1210, and the connector 1182 for connecting the circulation fan 1210 to the rotating drum 1302 to circulate airflow between the dehumidifier 1100 and the rotating drum 1302 of the washing machine 1300 according to several embodiments. In some embodiments, as shown in Figures 12, 15B, 15C, and 18A, the volute casing 1620 and motor 1610 of the circulation fan 1210 can be screwed to the lower casing 1160 from one side, and the impeller 1640 can be attached from the opposite side of the lower casing 1160. The impeller side of the circulation fan 1210 is further connected by screwing the connector 1182 to the plate 1186, and screwing the plate 1186 to the lower casing 1160.

[0155] Figure 18B is a schematic diagram of the air circulation (indicated by arrows) between the roller assembly 1900, connector 1180, circulation fan 1210, and connector 1182 in some embodiments. In some embodiments, the flexible connector 1182 (e.g., a corrugated hose, conjugate hose) provides a connection between the circulation fan 1210 and the rotating drum 1302 of the washing machine 1300. As shown by the arrows in Figure 18B, airflow (e.g., moist air from damp laundry) enters from the rotating drum 1302 through an air outlet on the rotating drum 1302 (e.g., an air outlet or a filter screen provided nearby) to the connector 1182 (1810) and enters through the air inlet of the circulation fan 1210. In some embodiments, airflow enters from the air outlet of the circulation fan 1210 (1820) to the underside of the roller assembly 1900. In some embodiments, airflow flows from the underside of the roller assembly 1900 (1830) through the roller assembly 1900 and reaches the upper side of the roller assembly 1900. In some embodiments, moisture is absorbed from the humid air in the rotating drum 1302 during the circulation process. In some embodiments, as the rollers rotate, dry air flows in the upper space of the roller assembly 1900 (1840) and reaches the area corresponding to the connector 1180. In some embodiments, the dry air (1850) enters the connector 1180. In some embodiments, the dry air circulates through the connector 1180 (1860) and enters the rotating drum 1302.

[0156] Figure 18C is a schematic diagram of a sealed connection between the connector 1180 and the roller region 1140 using a gasket 1188 in some embodiments. In some embodiments, the connector 1180 is on the roller region 1140. extension Attached to the section, the gasket 1188 seals the connection between the connector 1180 and the roller area 1140, preventing leakage during air circulation.

[0157] Figure 19A is an exploded view of a roller assembly 1900 according to several embodiments. Figure 19B is a perspective view of a roller assembly 1900 meshing with a gear member 1932 driven by a drive motor 1144 according to several embodiments. Figure 19C is a perspective view of a roller assembly 1900 connected to a plurality of auxiliary rollers 1940 according to several embodiments. Figure 19D is a top view of a roller assembly 1900 according to several embodiments, the roller assembly 1900 connected to a plurality of auxiliary rollers 1940 provided on a lower casing 1160. Figure 19E is a top view of a plurality of vertical rollers 1944 provided on a lower casing 1160 according to several embodiments.

[0158] In some embodiments, the roller assembly 1900 includes an outer peripheral upper casing 1910, an outer peripheral damper 1912, a roller 1914, an outer peripheral lower casing 1916, a seal ring 1918, an upper central member 1920, a central damping member 1922, and a lower central member 1924. In some embodiments, the roller 1914 is formed from a molecular sheave, or at least the central region of the roller 1914 is made from a molecular sheave (e.g., Moisture-absorbing rotating disc ) are included and used to absorb moisture in humid air. In some embodiments, the outer periphery upper casing 1910 is connected to the outer periphery lower casing 1916 by a suitable method such as snap fastening, clamping, screwing or bonding, and the roller 1914 is housed and fixed between the outer periphery upper casing 1910 and the outer periphery lower casing 1916 to form a roller assembly 1900.

[0159] In some embodiments, the outer periphery damper 1912 includes any suitable vibration damping material, such as a foam ring, and is attached to the outer periphery of the roller 1914 to form a buffer between the outer periphery of the roller 1914 and the inner surfaces of the outer periphery upper casing 1910 and outer periphery lower casing 1916, thereby preventing damage caused by direct friction or collision between the roller 1914 (e.g., a molecular sheave) and the outer periphery upper casing 1910 and outer periphery lower casing 1916 during rotation.

[0160] In some embodiments, as shown in Figure 19B, the outer peripheral upper casing 1910 includes a plurality of drive teeth 1911 distributed around its circumference. When the drive motor 1144 is driven to rotate the gear member 1932, the teeth of the gear 1932 mesh with the drive teeth 1911, driving the roller assembly 1900, which includes the roller 1914, to rotate.

[0161] In some embodiments, as shown in Figures 19B to 19C, when the outer peripheral upper casing 1910 and the outer peripheral lower casing 1916 are connected to form a roller assembly 1900, a seal ring 1918 is attached to the outer circumference of the connection point between the outer peripheral upper casing 1910 and the outer peripheral lower casing 1916. In some embodiments, the seal ring 1918 is formed on the lower casing 1160 (for example, attached to or connected to the lower casing 1160 as part of the lower casing 1160). In some embodiments shown in Figure 19C, the drive teeth 1911, the auxiliary outer ring 1942, and the seal ring 1918 are provided on the outer circumference of the roller 1914 along the thickness direction from the center to the outer circumference of the roller 1914. In some embodiments, the drive teeth 1911, the outer circumference 1942, and the seal ring 1918 are three circular structures parallel to each other. In some embodiments, the outer surface of the outer circumference 1942 connects, contacts, fits, or is adjacent to the inner surface of the seal ring 1918. In some embodiments, the inner surface of the outer circumference 1942 connects, contacts, fits, or is adjacent to the outer surface of the drive teeth 1911. In some embodiments, the seal ring 1918 is configured to contact and seal with the inner wall of the lower casing 1916. In some embodiments, the drive teeth 1911, outer circumference 1942, and seal ring 1918 are distributed axially spaced or overlapping. Furthermore, the outer circumference 1942 may be a separate component or an integral component with the lower casing 1160 or the seal ring 1918, having a relatively flat shape and an appropriate outer diameter to match the roller 1914.

[0162] In some embodiments, the seal ring 1918 is formed from a suitable sealing material such as foam, soft rubber, or wool felt, which has low resistance during rotation. In some embodiments, the seal ring 1918 seals the connection between the outer peripheral upper casing 1910 and the outer peripheral lower casing 1916. In some embodiments, as the roller assembly 1900 rotates, the seal ring 1918 forms a seal and buffer between the roller assembly 1900 and the seal ring 1928 on the lower casing 1160 during the rotation process, allowing most of the moist air in the rotating drum 1302 of the washing machine 1300 to pass through the roller 1914 and be absorbed by the molecular sieve. The rolling seal can prevent air leakage through the gap between the outer circumference of the roller 1914 and the inner circumference of the roller region 1660 on the lower casing 1160. In some embodiments, the seal ring 1918 is inner surface of lower casing 1160 It is used to seal the gap between the outer periphery upper casing 1910 and / or the outer periphery lower casing 1916.

[0163] In some embodiments, the upper central member 1920 and the lower central member 1924 pass through the central hole of the roller 1914 and are connected by a suitable method such as snap fastening, bolting, or bonding, from the roller area 1660 on the lower casing 1160 extension A rotational connection can be formed with the lower shaft 1926. In some embodiments, a central damping member 1922 can be provided between the lower central member 1924 and the roller 1914.

[0164] In some embodiments, as shown in Figure 19D, multiple auxiliary rollers 1940 are each housed in corresponding housing projections 1941 on the roller region 1660 of the lower casing 1160 shown in Figure 19A. In some embodiments, the housing projections 1941 are part of the lower casing 1160 and each protrudes outward from its position holding the auxiliary roller 1940. In some embodiments, as the roller assembly 1900 rotates, the auxiliary rollers 1940 can eliminate sliding friction between the roller 1914 and the inner ring of the roller region 1660 of the lower casing 1160, thereby preventing damage to the roller 1914. In some embodiments, the auxiliary rollers 1940 can limit the rotational motion of the roller 1914 to prevent damage to the roller 1914 from collisions. For example, if the roller assembly 1900 rotates irregularly, for instance, due to elastic deformation of the outer shell of the roller 1914 caused by collisions of irregular or uneven rotation, the auxiliary rollers 1940 can act as a buffer, reducing collisions between the roller 1914 and its outer circumference and the roller region 1660 of the lower casing 1160. In some embodiments, the number of auxiliary rollers 1940 may be 4, 6, 8, or any other suitable number.

[0165] In some embodiments, as shown in Figures 19B to 19D, the auxiliary outer ring 1942 contacts at least one of the auxiliary rollers 1940 to promote the normal rotation of the roller 1914 and reduce friction. For example, if the rotation of the roller assembly 1900 is offset with respect to the axis of rotation, the auxiliary outer ring 1942 presses against one or more corresponding auxiliary rollers 1940 distributed in the roller area 1660 of the lower casing 1160, thereby allowing the offset motion (e.g., the diameter of the auxiliary rollers 1940 elastically changes, or the distribution of the auxiliary rollers 1940 allows and absorbs the collision) and avoiding damage or deformation of the roller 1914. Furthermore, during the rotation of the roller assembly 1900, the auxiliary outer ring 1942 can also reduce the pressure and friction between the auxiliary outer ring 1942 and the auxiliary rollers 1940.

[0166] In some embodiments, as shown in Figure 19E, the roller region 1660 of the lower casing 1160 further provides a plurality of vertical rollers 1944 (e.g., having a fixed diameter), which are distributed on the inner bottom surface of the lower casing 1160 to support the outer circumference of the lower casing 1916, thereby reducing or eliminating friction between the roller assembly 1900 and the lower casing 1160 during rotation. In some embodiments, as shown in Figure 19E, the vertical rollers 1944 are distributed in the lower casing 1160 perpendicular to the auxiliary rollers 1940, for example, the axis of rotation of the vertical rollers 1944 is perpendicular to the axis of rotation of the auxiliary rollers 1940.

[0167] In some embodiments, drive transmission is primarily achieved by the cooperative motion of gear teeth, pulleys, and transmission belts. As shown in Figure 19B, the rotation of the roller assembly 1900 is driven by drive teeth 1911 distributed on the outer circumference of the roller assembly 1900. In some embodiments, the rotation of the roller assembly 1900 may also be driven by an upper central member 1920 and a lower central member 1924, for example, by the rotation of an axis 1926 on the lower casing 1160 (shown in Figure 19A).

[0168] Figure 20A is a schematic diagram of an air regeneration system 2000 according to several embodiments. Figure 20B is a side view of an air regeneration system 2000 according to several embodiments. In some embodiments, the air regeneration system includes a roller regeneration area 2010 (e.g., a dehumidification area 1250 corresponding to a roller assembly 1900 or a part of a roller 1914 corresponding to a heating section 1150), a condenser 1230 (within the condensing section 1130), a regeneration fan 1220 (within the regeneration section 1120), and a heating element in the heating section 1150. In some embodiments, the circulation of the regenerated airflow is a closed loop. For example, the regenerated airflow flows sequentially from the outlet of the regeneration fan 1220, to the heating element in the heating section 1150, over the roller regeneration area 2010, through the roller regeneration area 2010 to the underside of the roller regeneration area 2010, to the condenser 1230, and finally flows back to the inlet of the regeneration fan 1220. In some embodiments, the circulation of the regenerated airflow is an open loop. For example, the inlet of the regeneration fan 1220 is connected to the atmosphere, and the air outlet of the condenser 1230 is also connected to the atmosphere. The open-loop airflow is connected to the atmosphere, the inlet of the regeneration fan 1220, the outlet of the regeneration fan 1220, the heating element of the heating unit 1150, the roller assembly 1900 (for example, roller 1914 and dehumidification area The air flows sequentially from 1250 (or the portion corresponding to the dehumidification area) to the condenser 1230 and then to the atmosphere. In some embodiments, the condenser 1230 condenses the high-temperature, high-humidity flow obtained during the dehumidification process performed by the roller assembly 1900 to obtain a low-temperature, dry airflow. The condensed water can be discharged from the condenser 1230 via the water outlet 1134 of the condenser 1230.

[0169] Figure 21A is an exploded view of the lower casing 1160 of the dehumidifier 1100 according to several embodiments. Figure 21B is an exploded view of the roller area 1660 on the lower casing 1160 according to several embodiments. In some embodiments, the lower casing 1160 of the dehumidifier 1100 includes a roller area 1660 for housing a roller assembly 1900, a circulation area 1650 for housing a circulation fan 1210, and a condensing area 1670 for housing a condenser 1230. In some embodiments, the lower casing 1160 is an integrated unit mounted on a washing machine. One-piece moldingThese are components. As described herein, the connection between the air outlet and air inlet of the rotating drum and the roller section 1140 can be made of a flexible, stretchable, and bendable hose, such as a corrugated hose or a conjugate hose, to prevent vibrations and impacts from being transmitted to the roller section 1140. In some embodiments, the lower casing 1160 may include a separate portion of a corresponding component for housing a dehumidifier 1100. In some embodiments, the roller area 1660 may be fixedly attached to the rack of the washing machine, and the other parts may be fixedly and rigidly connected to the outer cylinder of the drum. This avoids damage to the rollers and simultaneously maintains an integrated structure, as the effects of vibrations and impacts on other small components are smaller than those on the roller assembly. One-piece molding The cost of using the lower casing can be reduced. In some embodiments, the connection between the air inlet (e.g., the connection point of the circulation fan air inlet) and the air outlet (e.g., the location connected to the roller) of the moisture absorption passage on the roller may be a flexible connection (e.g., a bellows hose). In some embodiments, the connection between the air outlet of the regeneration fan and the air inlet of the roller regeneration passage may also be a flexible connection. Another flexible connection may be provided between the air outlet of the roller regeneration passage and the air inlet of the condenser. In some embodiments, the conduits between all members of the roller housing that are involved in vibration are transiently connected with flexible conduits to insulate against vibration.

[0170] In some embodiments, the roller region 1660 includes a divider or partition member 2110, such as a bracket, used to divide the roller region 1660 of the lower casing 1160 into a moisture absorption region 1240 (e.g., a dehumidification region) and a dehumidification region 1250 (e.g., a regeneration region). In some embodiments, an upper casing is further provided, such as a separate circulation fan upper casing (e.g., a volute casing 1620) or a condenser upper casing.

[0171] In some embodiments, the roller region 1660 of the lower casing 1160 includes a partition plate 2100 for separating the airflow circulating within the roller assembly 1900. In some embodiments, the air outlet of the circulation fan 1210 is connected to the air inlet 1649 of the roller section 1140 located on the roller region 1660 of the lower casing 1160, forming an airflow circulation between the circulation section 1110 and the roller section 1140. As shown in Figure 18C, the roller section 1140 may include an air outlet 1647 located in the casing of the roller assembly 1900 (the upper roller casing 1170 in Figure 23B). In some embodiments, the circulating air driven by the circulation fan 1210 enters the space between the roller assembly 1900 and the roller region 1660 through the inlet of the roller section 1140 and is divided into two parts by the partition plate 2100 to distribute more evenly within the roller assembly 1900 and improve efficiency. In this way, it is possible to avoid the accumulation of airflow in the outer periphery region of the roller assembly 1900 under the centrifugal force driven by the rotation of the rollers, and to improve moisture absorption and dehumidification efficiency through a uniform airflow distribution.

[0172] Figure 22 is an exploded view of a system 2200 including a heating section 1150 and a regeneration section 1120 of a dehumidifier 1100 according to several embodiments. In some embodiments, the heating section 1150 is connected to the regeneration section 1120 via a heating area upper casing 2210, a connector 2220, a regeneration fan upper casing 2228, a regeneration fan lower casing 2240, and another connector 2250 (if these components are connected to each other).

[0173] Figure 23A is an exploded view of system 2300 according to several embodiments, which includes a roller assembly 1900 mounted between the upper roller casing 1170 and the lower dehumidifier casing 1160. In some embodiments, the roller assembly 1900 is fixed between the upper roller casing 1170 and the lower roller casing 1660 by appropriate means such as screws, snaps, or adhesive to form the roller section 1140. In some embodiments, the upper sealing member 2310 is attached to the upper roller casing 1170 by means such as screws, snaps, or adhesive. In some embodiments, the lower sealing member 2320 is attached to the partition member 2340 on the lower roller casing 1660 by means such as screws, snaps, or adhesive to form an airflow regeneration region (e.g., dehumidification region 1250). In some embodiments, system 2300 can separate the moisture absorption region 1240 and the dehumidification region 1250. For example, the partition member 2340 can be combined with the protrusions of the upper casing 1170 to partition the moisture absorption area 1240 and the dehumidification area 1250. In some embodiments, the sealing member 2110, including the upper sealing member 2310 and the lower sealing member 2320, can effectively seal the corresponding areas to prevent airflow in the moisture absorption area 1240 from flowing through the partition member 2110 to the dehumidification area 1250, while simultaneously preventing airflow from flowing from the dehumidification area 1250 through the partition member 2110 to the moisture absorption area 1240. For example, a flexible sealant may be applied between the roller assembly 1900 and the roller upper casing 1170 and the roller lower casing 1660. In some embodiments, the sealing member 2110 may be made of a flexible sealant, rubber, silicone or other suitable material. In some embodiments, the connection between the sealing member 2110 and the roller upper casing 1170 and the roller lower casing 1660 can be secured by metal retaining pieces and screws.

[0174] Figure 23B is an exploded view of a system 2350 including a roller upper casing 1170 and a roller lower casing 1660 according to several embodiments. In some embodiments, the roller upper casing 1170 and the roller lower casing 1660 are fixed together, for example, by screws or bolts, and further sealed by a seal ring 2360 to ensure the sealing of the roller portion 1140. In some embodiments, the seal ring 2360 may be a rubber gasket, a silicone gasket, or any other suitable gasket. In some embodiments, both the roller upper casing 1170 and the roller lower casing 1660 have mounting grooves, which are used to mount the seal ring 2360 into the mounting grooves when the roller upper casing 1170 and the roller lower casing 1660 are engaged and fixed together by bolts.

[0175] Figure 24A is a perspective view of a dehumidifier 1100 including a heating section 1150 according to several embodiments. In some embodiments, the heating element of the heating section 1150 is configured to be covered by a heating area upper casing 2210 (Figure 22). In some embodiments, a sealant 2230 and an insulating section 2240 are configured to surround the heating section 1150. In some embodiments, the sealant 2230 includes a foam, silicone, or a flexible adhesive. In some embodiments, the insulating section 2240 is formed from an insulating material or a suitable alloy and is positioned between the heating element of the heating section 1150 and the heating area casing 2210.

[0176] In some embodiments, the heat insulating portion 2240 is provided on the sealant 2230 (e.g., made of foam, silicone, or a flexible adhesive). For example, the sealant 2230 is in direct contact with the heating region upper casing 2210 and the heating section 1150. The heat insulating portion 2240 is fitted onto the sealant 2230 and is used to separate the moisture absorption region 1240 and the dehumidification region 1250 (e.g., the regeneration region), allowing the regeneration airflow to pass through the roller 1914. In some embodiments, the distance between the mounting position of the sealant 2230 and the roller 1914 is between 0.2 mm and 2 mm, for example, 0.8 mm, thereby ensuring a certain sealing effect while preventing the roller 1914 from directly contacting the sealant 2230 and increasing rotational resistance during the rotation process of the roller 1914. In some embodiments, the heat insulating portion 2240 forms a heat transfer buffer, preventing the heating section 1150 from directly contacting the plastic roller upper casing 1170, which may deform or burn if heated for extended periods.

[0177] Figure 24B is a perspective view of the heating section 1150 according to several embodiments. Figure 24C is a perspective view of the mesh plate 2420 used in the heating section 1150 according to several embodiments. Figure 24D is a top view of the mesh plate 2420 connected to the heating element 2450 of the heating section 1150 according to several embodiments. In some embodiments, the heating section 1150 has a fan-shaped structure including upper and lower casings and two side walls forming a space along the radial direction shown in Figure 24B (for example, a regenerating airflow passage connecting the regeneration section 1120 and the heating section 1150 via an air inlet on the side surface 2410, as shown in Figure 22). In some embodiments, the mesh plate 2420 and the heating element 2450 below the mesh plate 2420 are provided in this space (e.g., the regenerating airflow passage).

[0178] In some embodiments, the airflow enters from the side 2410 of the regenerating airflow passage, passes radially through the mesh plate 2420, and flows downward to the heating element 2450 through a plurality of air holes 2430 on the mesh plate 2420. The heated airflow then flows into the regeneration region of the roller, where it produces heating and dehumidifying effects (e.g., dehumidification). In some embodiments, the air holes 2430 are distributed such that the diameter of the air holes decreases inward along the radial direction. In some embodiments, the airflow enters the heating section 1150 from a different side (e.g., side 2409 shown in Figure 24B), flows through the mesh plate 2420, contacts the heating element 2450 through the air holes 2430, and then flows out of the heating section 1150 through the other side, e.g., side 2407 or side 2410, to obtain a more uniformly distributed heated airflow and a more uniform regenerating airflow.

[0179] In some embodiments, the heating element 2450 is distributed near the mesh plate 2420, for example, close to the mesh plate 2420, so as not to create significant resistance to the airflow passing through the air holes 2430. In some embodiments, the heating element 2450 is located near the air holes 2430 and offset radially, so that when the airflow is blown radially and passes through the air holes 2430, it generates velocity along the radius indicated by the arrow, and this offset causes the airflow passing through the air holes 2430 to face the heating element 2450.

[0180] In some embodiments, as shown in Figure 24D, the thermostat mounting section 2440 can monitor the temperature of the region and control the on / off state of the heating element 2450. In some embodiments, a thermal conductive sheet 2442 is provided on the thermostat mounting section 2440, and a temperature controller 2444 is provided on the thermal conductive sheet 2442. For example, the thermal conductive sheet 2442 covers the temperature controller 2444, transferring the temperature of the heating section 1150 to the thermal conductive sheet 2442, and the temperature controller 2444 can detect the temperature of the thermal conductive sheet 2442. This avoids the problem that if the heat-carrying airflow forms turbulence in the heating region, an unstable temperature distribution would hinder the effectiveness of temperature detection and control of the heating element 2450.

[0181] In some embodiments, instead of using the heat regeneration method, other regeneration methods, such as ultrasonic regeneration or microwave regeneration, may be used. When using other regeneration methods, modifications to the corresponding roller material may be employed. In some embodiments, lithium chloride, zeolite, modified silica gel, etc., are water-absorbing roller materials and are suitable for the heat regeneration process. In some embodiments, silicone can be used for ultrasonic regeneration. In some embodiments, the roller material may include activated alumina, molecular sieve 13X (e.g., sodium type), molecular sieve, etc. In some embodiments, the moisture absorption may include a container containing a liquid solvent, gel, or solid agent for absorbing water.

[0182] Figure 25 is an exploded view of the condenser section 1130 according to several embodiments, which includes a condenser 1230 mounted on a lower casing 1160. The condenser 1230 is mounted on a condenser region 1670 on the lower casing 1160 via a partition member and spatial constraints. The casing 1672 of the condenser 1230 presses against a seal strip 1674 around the condenser 1230 to achieve a sealing effect.

[0183] Figure 26 includes a condensation section 1130 according to several embodiments. dehumidifier This is a perspective view of 1100. In some embodiments, the air circulation in the condensing section 1130 involves high-temperature, high-humidity air entering the condensing region B from the air inlet A, and dry air that has passed through the condenser flowing out of the condensing region B via the air outlet C. In some embodiments, the casing 1672 is from the bottom extension The casing includes one or more baffle plates 2610, which are positioned below the condenser housed in the casing 1672, to prevent humid material from passing through the condenser and directly reaching the air outlet C from the bottom of the condenser and being blown out of the condensing section 1130. In some embodiments, the casing 1672 does not include baffle plates.

[0184] Figures 27A and 27B are schematic diagrams of corresponding condensation piping installations for the condenser 1230 in several embodiments. In some embodiments, the condensation process uses a water cooling method. For example, hot, humid air absorbed from damp laundry enters the condenser 1230 and is condensed into water, achieving the purpose of drying the hot, humid air. Good piping design can increase condensation efficiency and shorten condensation time. Figure 27A shows the entire piping layout from top to bottom. Figure 27B shows the entire piping layout from right to left and top to bottom. The order of condensed water inflow and outflow is shown in 1 to 20.

[0185] In some embodiments, the main principle of condensation is that when hot, humid air encounters a cold object (e.g., cooling water flowing through the condenser 1230), the moisture in the hot, humid air condenses into water. In some embodiments shown in Figure 27A, the water temperature is relatively higher from top to bottom. In some embodiments shown in Figure 27B, the temperature of the condensed water gradually increases from right to left, and the temperature of the hot, humid air gradually decreases from left to right. In this way, the hot, humid air and the condensed water maintain a constant temperature difference during the condensation process, which is beneficial for condensation.

[0186] In some embodiments, in addition to the condenser provided in the regeneration passage, a second condenser or condensing member may be further provided between the air outlet of the washing machine's rotating drum and the drum, to condense the high-temperature, high-humidity flow discharged from the drum, reduce its water content, and then perform a dehumidification treatment using the drum.

[0187] Figure 28 is a schematic diagram of several components within a washing machine 1300 according to several embodiments. The washing machine includes a water inlet 2810 connected to a water pipe and three water outlets, the three water outlets including a condenser water outlet 2840 for supplying cold water to a condenser, a filter self-cleaning water outlet 2820 for supplying water to a filter screen self-cleaning nozzle, and a drum and detergent box cleaning water outlet 2830 for supplying water to the washing machine drum and / or detergent box. In some embodiments, the water outlet 2830 has a solenoid valve switch for controlling the timing of supplying water to the drum or to the detergent box. In some embodiments, the water pipe connected to the water outlet 2830 is connected to the detergent box so that during the washing process, water first flows the detergent from the detergent box into the drum, and then continues to supply water to the drum to wash the laundry.

[0188] In some embodiments, the exhaust passage 2850 is connected to the drum's air outlet. Under the operation of a circulating fan, humid air from inside the drum is introduced into the drum's dehumidification area for dehumidification. In some embodiments, a filter screen is provided in the exhaust passage 2850 and is used to block or filter out lint that may be generated inside the drum when washing or drying laundry, preventing lint from entering the roller area and causing clogging, which would affect the dehumidification effect. In some embodiments, if lint adheres to the dehumidification area of ​​the roller, the lint may be carried further into the regeneration area by the rotation of the roller. A heating device is provided in the regeneration area, which may cause the lint to ignite.

[0189] Figures 29A to 29C are perspective views of an exhaust passage 2850 including a filter screen 2900 according to several embodiments. As shown in Figure 29A, a nozzle 2920 has a water inlet 2910 (connected to, for example, a filter self-cleaning water outlet 2820), where the nozzle 2920 connects the water inlet 2910 to the filter screen 2900, gradually becoming flat so that the water flow can cover the entire width of the filter screen 2900. In some embodiments, the filter screen 2900 is inclined and passes through the entire air outlet pipeline, for example, the exhaust passage 2850. extension This increases the surface area of ​​the filter screen 2900 that comes into contact with the airflow in the exhaust passage 2850, thus avoiding a decrease in airflow efficiency due to clogging of the filter screen 2900. Even if there are areas that are not cleaned during the self-cleaning process, in the exhaust passage 2850... extension Even if the area of ​​the filter screen 2900 is increased, it does not affect the efficiency of the airflow passing through the filter screen 2900. In some embodiments, the inclination angle of the filter screen 2900 can be small so that lint does not get caught in the filter screen 2900 and self-cleaning is not made difficult.

[0190] In some embodiments, self-cleaning water flows out from the water inlet 2910 and is ejected onto the filter screen 2900 via the nozzle 2920. Simultaneously, moisture in the drum flows in the reverse direction. For example, the moisture first passes through one side of the filter screen 2900 (defined as the filtration surface and used to block lint, etc.), then passes through the filter screen 2900 and continues to rise to the roller moisture absorption area. In some embodiments, the self-cleaning water reaches the nozzle 2920 from the water inlet 2910, and the nozzle extension The filter screen 2900 flows through section 2930, washing away any lint adhering to the upper surface of the filter screen. As shown in Figure 29B, the nozzle extension Section 2930 shall have the same width as the filter screen 2900. extension You may do so.

[0191] In some embodiments, after rinsing the filter screen 2900, the self-cleaning water is discharged from the washing machine through the washing machine's drain. In some embodiments, the drain can be used solely for discharging the self-cleaning water. In some embodiments, the drain may be a water outlet combined with the drain of the washing machine's drum.

[0192] Figures 30A and 30B are perspective views of one or more components of an exhaust passage 2850 including a filter screen 2900 according to several embodiments. In some embodiments, a water inlet 2910 is used to spray water onto the filter screen 2900 for cleaning. In some embodiments, the condensation function of the drum's exhaust passage 2850 is to slowly spray water onto the outer wall 2950 of the exhaust passage 2850 via a second water inlet 2915 to keep the pipe wall 2950 at a low temperature and condense the hot, humid air flowing through the exhaust passage 2850. In some embodiments, a water flow passage is formed so that the condensed water is sprayed onto the outer wall of the pipe without spillage and guided to flow into the washing machine's drum outer tub or outlet pipe.

[0193] Figures 31A-31C are perspective views of connector 3100 (e.g., air duct connector) according to several embodiments. In some embodiments, one end of connector 3100 is connected to a condensing section 1130, for example, the lower and upper casings of a condenser, and the other end of connector 3100 is connected to a regeneration area 1680 for holding a regeneration fan 1220. In some embodiments, connector 3100 facilitates air circulation from the condenser to the regeneration fan, which helps to lower the temperature. In some embodiments, the air duct connector 3100 may be disassembled into upper and lower parts during manufacturing, and then welded together after processing the upper and lower parts, respectively. In some embodiments, the shape of the air duct connector 3100 can adjust the air duct direction, improve airtightness, and at the same time ensure manufacturability. In some embodiments, connector 2250 shown in Figure 22 is connector 3100.

[0194] Figures 32A to 32E are perspective views of one or more components of a connector 3200 (e.g., an air duct connector) according to several embodiments. In some embodiments, the connector 3200 is used to connect a heating unit 1150 and a regeneration fan 1220. In some embodiments, the connector 3200 helps the dry, cool air generated by the regeneration fan 1220 to circulate and flow to the heating unit 1150. In some embodiments, the connector 3200 may be divided into upper and lower parts during manufacturing, and then welded together after processing the upper and lower parts, respectively. In some embodiments, the shape of the connector 3200 can adjust the air duct direction, improve airtightness, and at the same time ensure manufacturability. In some embodiments, the connector 2220 shown in Figure 22 is the connector 3200.

[0195] Figure 33 is a schematic diagram of several components included in a washing machine 3300 according to several embodiments. In some embodiments, instead of placing the dehumidifier 1100 at the top of the rotating drum, as in the washing machine 1300 in Figure 28, the washing machine 3300 in Figure 33 places the dehumidifier 1100 at the rear of the rotating drum. Figure 34 is a schematic diagram of several components included in a washing machine 3400 according to several embodiments. In some embodiments, the dehumidifier 1100 of the washing machine 3400 is located at the bottom of the rotating drum. As shown in Figures 28, 33, and 34, a washing machine using a dehumidifier 1100 in which multiple components are installed in a common plane can have a more compact washing machine structure, ensuring high dehumidification efficiency while reducing storage space. In some embodiments, the dehumidifier 1100 has one or more components from a roller section 1140, a circulation section 1110, a regeneration section 1120, and a condenser 1130, which are installed in a common plane. For example, the roller section 1140, circulation section 1110, regeneration section 1120, and condenser 1130 can all be installed in a single plane as shown in the dehumidifier 1100. In another example, the roller section 1140 is larger in size than the other components, and one or more of the circulation section 1110, regeneration section 1120, and condenser 1130 may be installed in the same plane as the roller section 1140, while the other components may be installed in other spaces (one or more) that are appropriately designed within the washing machine and connected to the piping.

[0196] Figure 35 is a rear view of the washing machine 3500 according to several embodiments. In some embodiments, instead of locating the exhaust passage 2850 of the washing machine 3300 to the left rear of the rotating drum (for example, as shown in Figures 13 and 28), the exhaust passage 2850 is located to the right rear of the rotating drum.

[0197] In some embodiments, the exhaust passage 2850 runs from the left rear of the drum to the left front. extensionThis may be done, and therefore other structures may also be modified. For example, the filter screen may be removed manually. Since the filter screen is removed manually, the filter screen box containing the filter screen may be located in a part of the front panel of the washing machine, with at least a portion of the air inlet conduit being close to the front panel of the washing machine.

[0198] It should be understood that, when applied, the disclosed embodiments are not limited to the structural details and component installations described in the above specification and / or accompanying drawings and / or examples. The disclosed embodiments are modifiable and can be practiced or implemented in various ways. It will be obvious to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations are possible to the disclosed apparatus and system. Other embodiments will also be obvious to those skilled in the art, given the specifications and practices of the disclosed apparatus and system. This specification and examples are for illustrative purposes only, and the true scope is indicated by the following claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. An integrated washing and drying machine that includes a container for storing laundry and a dehumidifier, The dehumidifier includes a circulation fan and a regeneration fan. The circulation fan is configured to circulate the humid air flowing out of the container toward a dehumidifying structure that absorbs moisture in the humid air. The regeneration fan is configured to generate an airflow that discharges the moisture absorbed by the moisture absorption and dehumidification structure, and to direct the generated airflow toward a condenser for condensing the moisture. The moisture absorption and dehumidification structure is provided adjacent to the circulation fan, the regeneration fan, and the condenser. The moisture absorption and dehumidification structure includes a roller assembly, the roller assembly includes an outer peripheral upper casing, a roller, and an outer peripheral lower casing, the roller being fixed between the outer peripheral upper casing and the outer peripheral lower casing, and other rollers being provided on at least one of the bottom and side of the roller assembly. An integrated washing and drying machine in which the circulation fan, the moisture absorption and dehumidification structure, the regeneration fan, and the condenser are provided in the same plane.

2. The integrated washing and drying machine according to claim 1, wherein the circulation fan and the condenser are provided adjacent to the regeneration fan and on the opposite side of the regeneration fan.

3. The integrated washing and drying machine according to claim 1, wherein the moisture absorption and dehumidification structure is provided in the same plane as at least one of the circulation fan, the regeneration fan, and the condenser.

4. The integrated washing and drying machine according to claim 1, wherein two or more of the rotational axes of the circulation fan, the roller assembly, and the regeneration fan in the dehumidifier are parallel to each other.

5. The other rollers mentioned above are The roller assembly includes a plurality of auxiliary rollers provided on the side and housed in corresponding housings of the lower casing, The lower casing is used to house one or more components of the dehumidifier. The integrated washing and drying machine according to claim 1, wherein the rotational axes of the plurality of auxiliary rollers are parallel to the rotational axes of the rollers of the roller assembly.

6. The other rollers mentioned above are The integrated washing and drying machine according to claim 5, comprising a plurality of vertical rollers provided at the bottom of the roller assembly and distributed in a lower casing for housing one or more members of the dehumidifier, wherein the rotational axes of the plurality of vertical rollers are positioned perpendicular to the rotational axes of the rollers of the roller assembly, the vertical rollers are distributed in the lower casing perpendicular to the auxiliary rollers, and the rotational axes of the vertical rollers are perpendicular to the rotational axes of the auxiliary rollers.

7. The integrated washing and drying machine according to claim 1, wherein one or more of the rotational axes of the circulation fan, the roller assembly, and the regeneration fan in the dehumidifier are perpendicular to the rotational axis of the container.

8. The integrated washing and drying machine according to claim 1, wherein one or more of the rotational axes of the circulation fan, the roller assembly, and the regeneration fan in the dehumidifier are parallel to the rotational axis of the container.

9. The integrated washing and drying machine according to claim 1, further comprising a lower casing including a plurality of regions, each of which is configured to house two or more of the circulation fan, the moisture absorption and dehumidification structure, the regeneration fan, and the condenser.

10. The integrated washing and drying machine according to claim 9, wherein the lower casing is a single integrated member.

11. The aforementioned moisture absorption and dehumidification structure includes a moisture absorption region and a dehumidification region. The moisture-absorbing region includes at least a portion of the moisture-absorbing and dehumidifying structure used to absorb moisture from the humid air circulated by the circulation fan, The integrated washing and drying machine according to claim 1, wherein the dehumidification area includes a heating section provided above the portion of the moisture absorption and dehumidification structure adjacent to the regeneration fan.

12. The dehumidifier further includes a moisture absorption passage, and the moisture absorption region is provided in the moisture absorption passage. The integrated washing and drying machine according to claim 11, wherein the moisture absorption passage is configured to direct the airflow generated by the circulation fan from the container toward the moisture absorption area.

13. The dehumidifier further includes a dehumidifying passage, and the dehumidifying region is provided in the dehumidifying passage. The integrated washing and drying machine according to claim 11, wherein the dehumidifying passage is configured to direct the airflow generated by the regenerating fan toward the condenser and remove moisture from the airflow.

14. The integrated washing and drying machine according to claim 11, wherein the heating section includes a plurality of heating elements arranged adjacent to a plurality of air holes in the mesh plate.

15. The integrated washing and drying machine according to claim 14, wherein the heating section has a fan-shaped structure, and the diameter of the plurality of air holes decreases radially toward the center of the fan-shaped structure.

16. The integrated washing and drying machine according to claim 15, wherein the plurality of heating elements are configured to be adjacent to the plurality of air holes and offset radially toward the center of the fan-shaped structure.

17. An exhaust passage connected to the air outlet of the container, The system further includes a filter assembly provided on the exhaust passage, the filter assembly being: Filter screen, and The integrated washing and drying machine according to claim 1, comprising a filter self-cleaning device for cleaning the filter screen.

18. The aforementioned dehumidifier is The integrated washing and drying machine according to claim 1, further comprising a spiral casing configured to cover the circulation fan and to be attached to a lower casing for housing one or more components of the dehumidifier.

19. An integrated washer-dryer including an inner drum, a drying module, a circulation fan, and a regeneration fan, The drying module includes a moisture absorption passage, a regeneration passage, and a moisture absorption member, the moisture absorption passage having a first air inlet and a first air outlet, and the inner drum is connected to the first air inlet and the first air outlet, respectively. The circulation fan is provided in the moisture absorption passage and forms a circulating airflow between the inner drum and the moisture absorption passage, and the regeneration fan is provided in the regeneration passage and forms a dehumidifying flow within the regeneration passage. The moisture-absorbing member is provided in the moisture-absorbing passage and the regeneration passage, and the circulating airflow and the dehumidifying flow flow through the moisture-absorbing member. The moisture-absorbing member is configured to absorb moisture in the circulating airflow within the moisture-absorbing passage when the moisture-absorbing member rotates, and to discharge the moisture through the dehumidifying flow in the regeneration passage, and the moisture-absorbing member includes a moisture-absorbing rotating disc and a heating assembly. The heating assembly covers the regeneration area on the moisture-absorbing rotating disc, and the moisture-absorbing area on the moisture-absorbing rotating disc is provided within the moisture-absorbing passage. The dehumidifying flow flows through the regeneration region on the moisture-absorbing rotating disc, and the circulating airflow flows through the moisture-absorbing region on the moisture-absorbing rotating disc. An integrated washing and drying machine, wherein the heating assembly includes a cover, the cover covers the regeneration area of ​​the moisture-absorbing rotating disc, and the cover includes a regeneration heating section.

20. The integrated washing and drying machine according to claim 19, further comprising a water inlet and a water outlet connected to the inner drum.

21. The integrated washing and drying machine according to claim 19, further comprising a drive unit that is connected to the inner drum and drives the inner drum to rotate.

22. The integrated washing and drying machine according to claim 19, further comprising a filter member provided in the moisture absorption passage, wherein the filter member is provided upstream of the moisture absorption member.

23. The integrated washing and drying machine according to claim 19, further comprising a filter member provided in the regeneration passage.

24. The integrated washing and drying machine according to claim 19, wherein the moisture absorption passage further includes a heating member.

25. The integrated washing and drying machine according to claim 19, wherein an opening is provided in the portion of the cover corresponding to the regeneration area, which connects to the regeneration passage.

26. The integrated washing and drying machine according to claim 19, wherein the moisture-absorbing rotating disc includes a moisture-absorbing roller and a rotating member connected to the moisture-absorbing roller, a shell covers the outside of the moisture-absorbing rotating disc, the moisture-absorbing rotating disc is configured to rotate relative to the shell when driven by the rotating member, and the shell is connected to the moisture-absorbing passage and the regeneration passage, respectively.

27. The integrated washing and drying machine according to claim 19, wherein a condensing member is provided in the regeneration passage, and the condensing member is configured to cool the dehumidified flow in the regeneration passage to dry the dehumidified flow.

28. The controller further includes a temperature sensor provided within the moisture absorption passage. The integrated washing and drying machine according to claim 24, wherein the controller is electrically connected to the temperature sensor and the heating element, and the controller is configured to control the on / off state of the heating element according to the temperature detected by the temperature sensor.

29. The integrated washing and drying machine according to claim 28, wherein a humidity sensor for detecting the humidity of the inner drum is provided inside the inner drum.

30. The integrated washing and drying machine according to claim 29, wherein two or more humidity sensors are provided, and the temperature sensor is provided at a different position from the humidity sensors on the inner drum.

31. Including the housing, The inner drum and the drive unit are provided within the housing, and the regeneration passage is provided at least partially between the inner drum and the housing. The integrated washing and drying machine according to claim 21, wherein a second air outlet and a second air inlet are provided on the side surface of the housing, the second air outlet is connected to the air outlet end of the regeneration passage, and the second air inlet is connected to the air inlet end of the regeneration passage.

32. Including the housing, The integrated washing and drying machine according to claim 19, wherein the moisture-absorbing member is located inside the housing, and the housing rotates relative to the fixedly installed moisture-absorbing member.

33. An integrated washing and drying machine including a housing, a dehumidifier, and a filter assembly, The housing includes a plurality of containers for storing laundry, each of the plurality of containers includes an air inlet passage and an air outlet passage. The dehumidifying device is configured to selectively dehumidify laundry in a container selected from the plurality of containers, and the dehumidifying device includes an air inlet connected to the air outlet passage of the selected container, and an air outlet connected to the air inlet passage of the selected container. The aforementioned filter assembly is A filter provided in the air outlet passage of the selected container or the air inlet of the dehumidifier, The filter includes a filter self-cleaning device for cleaning the filter, The dehumidifying device is an integrated washing and drying machine that selectively communicates fluid with one of the multiple containers via a switching mechanism.

34. The dehumidifying device includes a moisture absorption passage, a dehumidifying passage, and a moisture absorption / dehumidifying member. The moisture-absorbing and dehumidifying member includes a moisture-absorbing region communicating with the moisture-absorbing passage and a dehumidifying region communicating with the dehumidifying passage. The moisture absorption passage includes the air inlet of the dehumidifier located on the air inlet side of the moisture absorption region of the moisture absorption dehumidifier member, and the air outlet of the dehumidifier located on the air outlet side of the moisture absorption region of the moisture absorption dehumidifier member. The dehumidification passage includes an intake section located on the air inlet side of the dehumidification area of ​​the moisture-absorbing and dehumidifying member, and an exhaust section located on the air outlet side of the dehumidification area of ​​the moisture-absorbing and dehumidifying member. The intake portion of the moisture absorption passage selectively communicates with the air outlet passage of the selected container, and the exhaust portion of the moisture absorption passage communicates with the air inlet passage of the selected container, or The integrated washing and drying machine according to claim 33, wherein the moisture-absorbing and dehumidifying member is rotatably provided in the moisture-absorbing passage and the dehumidifying passage.

35. The integrated washing and drying machine according to claim 34, further comprising a switching structure, the switching structure comprising a first switching mechanism and a second switching mechanism, the air inlet passage of the selected container being connected to the exhaust portion of the moisture absorption passage via the first switching mechanism, and the air outlet passage of the selected container being connected to the intake portion of the moisture absorption passage via the second switching mechanism.

36. The integrated washing and drying machine according to claim 35, wherein the filter and the filter self-cleaning device are provided in the intake section of the dehumidifying device and are located between the second switching mechanism and the moisture-absorbing and dehumidifying member.

37. The second switching mechanism is provided at the connection point between the intake section of the dehumidifier and the air outlet passage of the container, or The integrated washing and drying machine according to claim 35 or 36, wherein the multiple switching mechanisms are provided within the air outlet passage of the container.

38. The integrated washing and drying machine according to claim 35, comprising one or more sets of filters and a filter self-cleaning device, each provided in the air outlet passage of the container and located upstream or downstream of the second switching mechanism.

39. The filter self-cleaning device includes a spraying mechanism for spraying fluid onto the filter, or The filter self-cleaning device includes a vibration mechanism for vibrating the filter, or The filter self-cleaning device includes a blowing mechanism for blowing gas onto the filter, or The integrated washing and drying machine according to claim 34, wherein the filter self-cleaning device includes a scraping mechanism for scraping the surface of the filter.

40. The filter self-cleaning device includes a spraying mechanism for spraying fluid onto the filter. The direction in which the fluid in the spray mechanism flows through the filter is opposite to the direction in which the airflow flows through the filter, or The integrated washing and drying machine according to claim 39, wherein the filter and the filter self-cleaning device are provided in the intake section of the dehumidifier and are located between the switching mechanism and the moisture-absorbing and dehumidifying member, and the direction of spraying of the fluid of the spraying mechanism is in a direction away from the moisture-absorbing and dehumidifying member.

41. The nozzle of the spraying mechanism is located above the center line of the filter, or The integrated washing and drying machine according to claim 39 or 40, wherein the nozzle of the spraying mechanism is provided on the air outlet side of the filter.

42. The integrated washing and drying machine according to claim 34, further comprising a fan and a heater provided in the dehumidifying passage, wherein the heater is provided near the dehumidifying region of the moisture-absorbing and dehumidifying member.

43. The present invention further includes a heat exchanger provided within the dehumidification passage, the heat exchanger being located on the air outlet side of the dehumidification area, and the heat exchanger including a ventilation passage communicating with the dehumidification area and a water outlet for discharging condensed water. The heat exchanger includes a cooling passage through which a refrigerant passes, and the exhaust port of the vent passage of the heat exchanger communicates with the air inlet of the fan, or The heat exchanger includes a cooling passage through which a refrigerant passes, and the exhaust port of the vent passage of the heat exchanger communicates with the outside of the washing machine, or The integrated washing and drying machine according to claim 42, wherein the fan includes an air inlet passage that passes through the inside of the heat exchanger.

44. The present invention further includes a heat exchanger, which is located on the air outlet passage of the selected container or within the intake section of the dehumidifier, for the purpose of dehumidifying and cooling the airflow discharged from the selected container. The integrated washing and drying machine according to claim 34, wherein the dehumidifying passage is located upstream of the dehumidifying region, penetrating the inside of the heat exchanger, so that the moist hot air in the air outlet passage of the container or the intake section of the dehumidifying device can exchange heat with the dry cold air in the dehumidifying passage upstream of the dehumidifying region.

45. The integrated washing and drying machine according to claim 34, wherein the plurality of containers include an upper tank and a lower tank stacked vertically, and the dehumidifying device is located between the upper tank and the lower tank, above the upper tank, or below the lower tank.

46. The upper tub and the lower tub are both inner tubs of a washing machine, or The upper tub is the inner tub of a dryer, the lower tub is the inner tub of a washing machine, or The integrated washing and drying machine according to claim 45, wherein the upper tub is the inner tub of a washing machine, and the lower tub is the inner tub of a dryer.

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