Laundry appliances and linked dehumidifier appliances

Abstract

A method of operating a laundry appliance and a dehumidifier appliance includes performing an operation cycle of the laundry appliance, which causes a load of articles to be treated in the laundry appliance. The method also includes activating the dehumidifier appliance after the operation cycle of the laundry appliance and deactivating the dehumidifier appliance after a desired humidity level is reached.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present subject matter relates generally to systems and methods for managing humidity, such as managing humidity within an enclosed space that houses a group of laundry appliances, e.g., a laundromat, using one or more dehumidifier appliances which are lined to one or more of the laundry appliances.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] Laundry appliances generally include washing machine appliances and dryer appliances. Some laundry appliances, such as commercial laundry appliances, may be organized in groups, e.g., with multiple washing machine appliances and multiple dryer appliances in the group. For example, such larger groups may be found in a laundromat, dormitory, or apartment building, etc.

[0003] Operations of the laundry appliances, e.g., washing and drying laundry and / or other articles in such appliances, generates humidity which is often released into the ambient atmosphere surrounding the laundry appliances, such as when a door of a laundry appliance is opened after completing an operation cycle of the laundry appliance. In particular where a group of laundry appliances are located in the same room or area, e.g., in a laundromat, the humidity in the single room may accumulate to a significant level over time when many laundry operation cycles are performed.

[0004] Some laundry facilities, e.g., laundromat or the like, employ a dehumidifier appliance to manage (e.g., reduce) this accumulated humidity. Existing techniques, however, generally include constantly running the dehumidifier which may lead to excess energy usage and associated increased costs, as well as may reduce the useful service life of the dehumidifier appliance.

[0005] Thus, systems and methods for smart dehumidification in a laundromat, such as on-demand dehumidification and automatic deactivation of the dehumidifier appliance, would be beneficial.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0006] Aspects and advantages of the invention will be set forth in part in the following description, or may be obvious from the description, or may be learned through practice of the invention.

[0007] In accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure, a method of operating a plurality of laundry appliances and a plurality of dehumidifier appliances is provided. The method includes commissioning a first laundry appliance of the plurality of laundry appliances in a remote computing device. Commissioning the first laundry appliance includes linking the first laundry appliance to a first dehumidifier appliance of the plurality of dehumidifier appliances. The method also includes commissioning a second laundry appliance of the plurality of laundry appliances in the remote computing device. Commissioning the second laundry appliance includes linking the second laundry appliance to the first dehumidifier appliance of the plurality of dehumidifier appliances. The method further includes commissioning a third laundry appliance of the plurality of laundry appliances in the remote computing device. Commissioning the third laundry appliance includes linking the third laundry appliance to a second dehumidifier appliance of the plurality of dehumidifier appliances. The method also includes performing a first laundry cycle with the first laundry appliance and detecting, by the remote computing device, an end of the first laundry cycle. In response to detecting the end of the first laundry cycle, the remote computing device activates the first dehumidifier appliance to perform a first dehumidification cycle. The method further includes ending the first dehumidification cycle and deactivating the first dehumidifier appliance based on reaching a desired humidity level. The method also includes performing a second laundry cycle with the second laundry appliance and detecting, by the remote computing device, an end of the second laundry cycle. In response to detecting the end of the second laundry cycle, the remote computing device activates the first dehumidifier appliance to perform a second dehumidification cycle. The method further includes ending the second dehumidification cycle and deactivating the first dehumidifier appliance based on reaching the desired humidity level. The method also includes performing a third laundry cycle with the third laundry appliance and detecting, by the remote computing device, an end of the third laundry cycle. In response to detecting the end of the third laundry cycle, the remote computing device activates the second dehumidifier appliance to perform a third dehumidification cycle. The method further includes ending the third dehumidification cycle and deactivating the second dehumidifier appliance based on reaching the desired humidity level.

[0008] In accordance with another embodiment of the present disclosure, a method of operating a plurality of laundry appliances and a dehumidifier appliance is provided. The method includes commissioning a first laundry appliance of the plurality of laundry appliances in a remote computing device. Commissioning the first laundry appliance includes linking the first laundry appliance to the dehumidifier appliance. The method also includes commissioning a second laundry appliance of the plurality of laundry appliances in the remote computing device. Commissioning the second laundry appliance includes linking the second laundry appliance to the dehumidifier appliance. The method further includes performing a first laundry cycle with the first laundry appliance and detecting, by the remote computing device, an end of the first laundry cycle. The method also includes activating, by the remote device, the dehumidifier appliance to perform a first dehumidification cycle in response to detecting the end of the first laundry cycle. The method further includes ending the first dehumidification cycle and deactivating the dehumidifier appliance based on reaching a desired humidity level. The method also includes performing a second laundry cycle with the second laundry appliance and detecting, by the remote computing device, an end of the second laundry cycle. The method further includes activating, by the remote device, the dehumidifier appliance to perform a second dehumidification cycle in response to detecting the end of the second laundry cycle and ending the second dehumidification cycle and deactivating the dehumidifier appliance based on reaching the desired humidity level.

[0009] In accordance with yet another embodiment of the present disclosure, a method of operating a laundry appliance and a dehumidifier appliance is provided. The method includes performing an operation cycle of the laundry appliance, which causes a load of articles to be treated in the laundry appliance. The method also includes activating the dehumidifier appliance after the operation cycle of the laundry appliance and deactivating the dehumidifier appliance after a desired humidity level is reached.

[0010] These and other features, aspects and advantages of the present invention will become better understood with reference to the following description and appended claims. The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate embodiments of the invention and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the invention.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0011] A full and enabling disclosure of the present invention, including the best mode thereof, directed to one of ordinary skill in the art, is set forth in the specification, which makes reference to the appended figures.

[0012] FIG. 1 provides a front view of an exemplary washing machine appliance and an exemplary dryer appliance in accordance with one or more exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0013] FIG. 2 provides a transverse cross-sectional view of the exemplary washing machine appliance of FIG. 1.

[0014] FIG. 3 provides a perspective view of the exemplary dryer appliance of FIG. 1 with portions of a cabinet of the dryer appliance removed to reveal certain components of the dryer appliance.

[0015] FIG. 4 provides a front elevation view of a dehumidifier appliance according to one or more exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0016] FIG. 5 provides a rear elevation view of the exemplary dehumidifier appliance of FIG. 4.

[0017] FIG. 6 provides a top perspective view of the exemplary dehumidifier appliance of FIG. 4.

[0018] FIG. 7 provides a front perspective view of the exemplary dehumidifier appliance of FIG. 4, wherein an outer panel and water bucket have been removed for clarity.

[0019] FIG. 8 provides a rear perspective view of the exemplary dehumidifier appliance of FIG. 4, wherein an outer panel has been removed for clarity.

[0020] FIG. 9 provides a side perspective view of the exemplary dehumidifier appliance of FIG. 4, wherein an outer panel has been removed for clarity.

[0021] FIG. 10 provides a schematic diagram of a laundry appliance and a dehumidifier appliance in communication with a remote user interface device and a remote database according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0022] FIG. 11 provides a schematic representation of a plurality of dehumidifier appliances and a plurality of laundry appliances which are collectively located in a single room, where each laundry appliance may be linked to one of the dehumidifier appliances.

[0023] FIG. 12 provides a flowchart illustrating an example method of according to one or more additional embodiments of the present disclosure.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0024] Reference now will be made in detail to embodiments of the invention, one or more examples of which are illustrated in the drawings. Each example is provided by way of explanation of the invention, not limitation of the invention. In fact, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations can be made in the present invention without departing from the scope or spirit of the invention. For instance, features illustrated or described as part of one embodiment can be used with another embodiment to yield a still further embodiment. Thus, it is intended that the present invention covers such modifications and variations as come within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents.

[0025] As used herein, terms of approximation, such as “generally,”“approximately,” or “about” include values within ten percent greater or less than the stated value. When used in the context of an angle or direction, such terms include within ten degrees greater or less than the stated angle or direction. For example, “generally vertical” includes directions within ten degrees of vertical in any direction, e.g., clockwise or counter-clockwise.

[0026] As may be seen in FIGS. 1 through 3, in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present subject matter, a group of at least two laundry appliances, e.g., a pair of laundry appliances is provided.

[0027] As may be seen generally throughout FIGS. 1 through 3, a user interface panel 100 and a user input device 102 may be positioned on an exterior of each laundry appliance. The user input device 102 is generally positioned proximate to the user interface panel 100, and in some embodiments, the user input device 102 may be positioned on the user interface panel 100.

[0028] In various embodiments, the user interface panel 100 may represent a general purpose I / O (“GPIO”) device or functional block. In some embodiments, the user interface panel 100 may include or be in operative communication with user input device 102, such as one or more of a variety of digital, analog, electrical, mechanical or electro-mechanical input devices including rotary dials, control knobs, push buttons, and touch pads. The user interface panel 100 may include a display component 104, such as a digital or analog display device designed to provide operational feedback to a user. The display component 104 may also be a touchscreen capable of receiving a user input, such that the display component 104 may also be a user input device in addition to or instead of the user input device 102.

[0029] Generally, each appliance may include a controller 210 in operative communication with the user input device 102. The user interface panel 100 and the user input device 102 may be in communication with the controller 210 via, for example, one or more signal lines or shared communication busses. Input / output (“I / O”) signals may be routed between controller 210 and various operational components of the appliance. Operation of the appliance can be regulated by the controller 210 that is operatively coupled to the user interface panel 100. A user interface panel 100 may for example provide selections for user manipulation of the operation of an appliance, e.g., via user input device 102 and / or display 104. In response to user manipulation of the user interface panel 100 and / or user input device 102, the controller 210 may operate various components of the appliance. Controller 210 may include a memory and one or more microprocessors, CPUs or the like, such as general or special purpose microprocessors operable to execute programming instructions or micro-control code associated with operation of the appliance. The memory may represent random access memory such as DRAM, or read only memory such as ROM or FLASH. In one embodiment, the processor executes programming instructions stored in memory. The memory may be a separate component from the processor or may be included onboard within the processor. Alternatively, a controller 210 may be constructed without using a microprocessor, e.g., using a combination of discrete analog and / or digital logic circuitry (such as switches, amplifiers, integrators, comparators, flip-flops, AND gates, and the like) to perform control functionality instead of relying upon software.

[0030] The controller 210 may be programmed to operate the appliance by executing instructions stored in memory. For example, the instructions may be software or any set of instructions that when executed by the processing device, cause the processing device to perform operations. Controller 210 can include one or more processor(s) and associated memory device(s) configured to perform a variety of computer-implemented functions and / or instructions (e.g., performing the methods, steps, calculations and the like and storing relevant data as disclosed herein). It should be noted that controllers 210 as disclosed herein are capable of and may be operable to perform any methods and associated method steps as disclosed herein.

[0031] In some embodiments, for example, as illustrated in FIG. 1, the group of laundry appliances may include one or more of each of a washing machine appliance 10 and a dryer appliance 11. In embodiments such as illustrated in FIG. 1, the user input device 102 of each appliance 10 and 11 may be positioned on the user interface panel 100. The embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1 also includes a display 104 on the user interface panel 100 of each laundry appliance 10 and 11.

[0032] As generally seen throughout FIGS. 1 through 3, in at least some embodiments, each laundry appliance 10 and 11 includes a cabinet 12 which defines a vertical direction V and a lateral direction L that are mutually perpendicular. Each cabinet 12 extends between a top side 16 and a bottom side14 along the vertical direction V. Each cabinet 12 also extends between a left side 18 and a right side 20, e.g., along the lateral direction L.

[0033] Additional exemplary details of the laundry appliances are illustrated in FIGS. 2 and 3. For example, FIG. 2 provides a cross-sectional view of the exemplary washing machine appliance 10. As illustrated in FIG. 2, a wash tub 124 is non-rotatably mounted within cabinet 12. As may be seen in FIG. 2, the wash tub 124 defines a central axis 101. In the example embodiment illustrated by FIG. 2, the central axis 101 may be oriented generally along or parallel to the transverse direction T of the washing machine appliance 10. Accordingly, the washing machine appliance 10 may be referred to as a horizontal axis washing machine.

[0034] Referring again to FIG. 2, a wash basket 120 is rotatably mounted within the tub 124 such that the wash basket 120 is rotatable about an axis of rotation, which generally coincides with central axis 101 of the tub 124. A motor 122, e.g., such as a pancake motor, is in mechanical communication with wash basket 120 to selectively rotate wash basket 120 (e.g., during an agitation or a rinse cycle of washing machine appliance 10). Wash basket 120 defines a wash chamber 126 that is configured for receipt of articles for washing. The wash tub 124 holds wash and rinse fluids for agitation in wash basket 120 within wash tub 124. As used herein, “wash fluid” may refer to water, detergent, fabric softener, bleach, or any other suitable wash additive or combination thereof. The wash basket 120 and the tub 124 may collectively define at least a portion of a tub assembly for the washing machine appliance 10.

[0035] Wash basket 120 may define one or more agitator features that extend into wash chamber 126 to assist in agitation and cleaning of articles disposed within wash chamber 126 during operation of washing machine appliance 10. For example, as illustrated in FIG. 2, a plurality of ribs 128 extends from basket 120 into wash chamber 126. In this manner, for example, ribs 128 may lift articles disposed in wash basket 120 during rotation of wash basket 120.

[0036] Referring generally to FIGS. 1 and 2, cabinet 12 also includes a front panel 130 which defines an opening 132 that permits user access to wash basket 120 within wash tub 124. More specifically, washing machine appliance 10 includes a door 134 that is positioned in front of opening 132 and is rotatably mounted to front panel 130. Door 134 is rotatable such that door 134 permits selective access to opening 132 by rotating between an open position (not shown) facilitating access to a wash tub 124 and a closed position (FIG. 1) prohibiting access to wash tub 124.

[0037] A window 136 in door 134 permits viewing of wash basket 120 when door 134 is in the closed position, e.g., during operation of washing machine appliance 10. Door 134 also includes a handle (not shown) that, e.g., a user may pull when opening and closing door 134. Further, although door 134 is illustrated as mounted to front panel 130, it should be appreciated that door 134 may be mounted to another side of cabinet 12 or any other suitable support according to alternative embodiments.

[0038] Referring again to FIG. 2, wash basket 120 also defines a plurality of perforations 140 in order to facilitate fluid communication between an interior of basket 120 and wash tub 124. A sump 142 is defined by wash tub 124 at a bottom of wash tub 124 along the vertical direction V. Thus, sump 142 is configured for receipt of and generally collects wash fluid during operation of washing machine appliance 10. For example, during operation of washing machine appliance 10, wash fluid may be urged by gravity from basket 120 to sump 142 through plurality of perforations 140. A pump assembly 144 is located beneath tub 124 for gravity assisted flow when draining tub 124, e.g., via a drain 146. Pump assembly 144 may be configured for recirculating wash fluid within wash tub 124.

[0039] A spout 150 is configured for directing a flow of fluid into wash tub 124. For example, spout 150 may be in fluid communication with a water supply (not shown) in order to direct fluid (e.g., clean water) into wash tub 124. Spout 150 may also be in fluid communication with the sump 142. For example, pump assembly 144 may direct wash fluid disposed in sump 142 to spout 150 in order to circulate wash fluid in wash tub 124.

[0040] As illustrated in FIG. 2, a detergent drawer 152 is slidably mounted within front panel 130. Detergent drawer 152 receives a wash additive (e.g., detergent, fabric softener, bleach, or any other suitable liquid or powder) and directs the fluid additive to wash chamber 124 during operation of washing machine appliance 10. According to the illustrated embodiment, detergent drawer 152 may also be fluidly coupled to spout 150 to facilitate the complete and accurate dispensing of wash additive.

[0041] Additionally, a bulk reservoir 154 is disposed within cabinet 12. Bulk reservoir 154 is also configured for receipt of fluid additive for use during operation of washing machine appliance 10. Bulk reservoir 154 is sized such that a volume of fluid additive sufficient for a plurality or multitude of wash cycles of washing machine appliance 10 (e.g., five, ten, twenty, fifty, or any other suitable number of wash cycles) may fill bulk reservoir 154. Thus, for example, a user can fill bulk reservoir 154 with fluid additive and operate washing machine appliance 10 for a plurality of wash cycles without refilling bulk reservoir 154 with fluid additive. A reservoir pump 156 is configured for selective delivery of the fluid additive from bulk reservoir 154 to wash tub 124.

[0042] During operation of washing machine appliance 10, e.g., during a wash cycle of the washing machine appliance 10, a laundry items are loaded into wash basket 120 through opening 132, and washing operation is initiated through operator manipulation of input selectors 102. Wash tub 124 is filled with water, detergent, and / or other fluid additives, e.g., via spout 150 and / or detergent drawer 152. One or more valves (not shown) can be controlled by washing machine appliance 10 to provide for filling wash basket 120 to the appropriate level for the amount of articles being washed and / or rinsed. By way of example for a wash mode, once wash basket 120 is properly filled with fluid, the contents of wash basket 120 can be agitated (e.g., with ribs 128) for washing of laundry items in wash basket 120.

[0043] After the agitation phase of the wash cycle is completed, wash tub 124 can be drained. Laundry articles can then be rinsed by again adding fluid to wash tub 124, depending on the particulars of the cleaning cycle selected by a user. Ribs 128 may again provide agitation within wash basket 120. One or more spin cycles may also be used. In particular, a spin cycle may be applied after the wash cycle and / or after the rinse cycle in order to wring wash fluid from the articles being washed. During a spin cycle, basket 120 is rotated at relatively high speeds. After articles disposed in wash basket 120 are cleaned and / or washed, the user can remove the articles from wash basket 120, e.g., by opening door 134 and reaching into wash basket 120 through opening 132.

[0044] While described in the context of a specific embodiment of horizontal axis washing machine appliance 10, using the teachings disclosed herein it will be understood that horizontal axis washing machine appliance 10 is provided by way of example only. It should be appreciated that the present subject matter is not limited to any particular style, model, or configuration of washing machine appliance. Other washing machine appliances having different configurations, different appearances, and / or different features may also be utilized with the present subject matter as well, e.g., vertical axis washing machine appliances.

[0045] FIG. 3 provides a perspective view of the dryer appliance 11 of FIG. 1, which is an example embodiment of a household appliance, with a portion of a cabinet or housing 12 of dryer appliance 11 removed in order to show certain components of dryer appliance 11. Dryer appliance 11 generally defines a vertical direction V, a lateral direction L, and a transverse direction T, each of which is mutually perpendicular, such that an orthogonal coordinate system is defined. While described in the context of a specific embodiment of dryer appliance 11, using the teachings disclosed herein, it will be understood that dryer appliance 11 is provided by way of example only. Other dryer appliances having different appearances and different features may also be utilized with the present subject matter as well.

[0046] Cabinet 12 includes a front side 22 and a rear side 24 spaced apart from each other along the transverse direction T. Within cabinet 12, an interior volume 29 is defined. A drum or container 26 is mounted for rotation about a substantially horizontal axis within the interior volume 29. Drum 26 defines a chamber 25 for receipt of articles of clothing for tumbling and / or drying. Drum 26 extends between a front portion 37 and a back portion 38. Drum 26 also includes a back or rear wall 34, e.g., at back portion 38 of drum 26. A supply duct 41 may be mounted to rear wall 34 and receives heated air that has been heated by a heating assembly or system 40.

[0047] As used herein, the terms “clothing” or “articles” include but need not be limited to fabrics, textiles, garments, linens, papers, or other items from which the extraction of moisture is desirable. Furthermore, the term “load” or “laundry load” refers to the combination of clothing that may be washed together in a washing machine 10 or dried together in a dryer appliance 11 (e.g., clothes dryer) and may include a mixture of different or similar articles of clothing of different or similar types and kinds of fabrics, textiles, garments and linens within a particular laundering process.

[0048] A motor 31 is provided in some embodiments to rotate drum 26 about the horizontal axis, e.g., via a pulley and a belt (not pictured). Drum 26 is generally cylindrical in shape, having an outer cylindrical wall 28 and a front flange or wall 30 that defines an opening 32 of drum 26, e.g., at front portion 37 of drum 26, for loading and unloading of articles into and out of chamber 25 of drum 26. A plurality of lifters or baffles 27 are provided within chamber 25 of drum 26 to lift articles therein and then allow such articles to tumble back to a bottom of drum 26 as drum 26 rotates. Baffles 27 may be mounted to drum 26 such that baffles 27 rotate with drum 26 during operation of dryer appliance 11.

[0049] The rear wall 34 of drum 26 may be rotatably supported within the cabinet 12 by a suitable fixed bearing. Rear wall 34 can be fixed or can be rotatable. Rear wall 34 may include, for instance, a plurality of holes that receive hot air that has been heated by heating system 40. The heating system 40 may include, e.g., a heat pump, an electric heating element, and / or a gas heating element (e.g., gas burner). Moisture laden, heated air is drawn from drum 26 by an air handler, such as blower fan 48, which generates a negative air pressure within drum 26. The moisture laden heated air passes through a duct 44 enclosing screen filter 46, which traps lint particles. As the air passes from blower fan 48, it enters a duct 50 and then is passed into heating system 40. In some embodiments, the dryer appliance 11 may be a conventional dryer appliance, e.g., the heating system 40 may be or include an electric heating element, e.g., a resistive heating element, or a gas-powered heating element, e.g., a gas burner. In other embodiments, the dryer appliance may be a condensation dryer, such as a heat pump dryer. In such embodiments, heating system 40 may be or include a heat pump including a sealed refrigerant circuit. Heated air (with a lower moisture content than was received from drum 26), exits heating system 40 and returns to drum 26 by duct 41. After the clothing articles have been dried, they are removed from the drum 26 via opening 32. A door (FIG. 1) provides for closing or accessing drum 26 through opening 32.

[0050] In some embodiments, one or more selector inputs 102, such as knobs, buttons, touchscreen interfaces, etc., may be provided or mounted on the cabinet 12 (e.g., on a backsplash 71) and are in operable communication (e.g., electrically coupled or coupled through a wireless network band) with the processing device or controller 210. Controller 210 may also be provided in operable communication with components of the dryer appliance 11 including motor 31, blower 48, or heating system 40. In turn, signals generated in controller 210 direct operation of motor 31, blower 48, or heating system 40 in response to the position of inputs 102. As used herein, “processing device” or “controller” may refer to one or more microprocessors, microcontroller, ASICS, or semiconductor devices and is not restricted necessarily to a single element. The controller 210 may be programmed to operate dryer appliance 11 by executing instructions stored in memory (e.g., non-transitory media). The controller 210 may include, or be associated with, one or more memory elements such as RAM, ROM, or electrically erasable, programmable read only memory (EEPROM). For example, the instructions may be software or any set of instructions that when executed by the processing device, cause the processing device to perform operations. It should be noted that controllers as disclosed herein are capable of and may be operable to perform any methods and associated method steps as disclosed herein. For example, in some embodiments, methods disclosed herein may be embodied in programming instructions stored in the memory and executed by the controller 210.

[0051] Turning now to FIGS. 4 through 6, various views are provided of an assembled dehumidifier appliance 300 according to exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. Generally, dehumidifier appliance 300 includes a cabinet 310 that defines a vertical direction V, a lateral direction L, and a transverse direction T. Each direction V, L, T is perpendicular to the other directions, such that an orthogonal coordinate system is generally defined. As would be understood, cabinet 310 may include a frame 312 and one or more outer panels covering various portions of frame 312. As will be described in greater detail below, various components of dehumidifier appliance 300 may be housed therein. In particular, one more portions of a refrigeration system (e.g., refrigeration loop) are mounted within cabinet 310.

[0052] Along with housing various components, cabinet 310 defines an airflow passage between an air inlet 316 and an air outlet 318 spaced apart from the air inlet 316. In some embodiments, cabinet 310 defines air inlet 316 at a front grill that extends over a front face of cabinet 310. In additional or alternative embodiments, cabinet 310 defines air outlet 318 at a top grill (e.g., positioned at a top end of cabinet 310 or otherwise above air inlet 316). Thus, relative to the direction of airflow through cabinet 310, air outlet 318 may be defined downstream from air inlet 316 and thereabove. During use, ambient air may flow into air inlet 316 and through cabinet 310 (e.g., via natural convection or forced airflow motivated by an internal fan). Within cabinet 310, water vapor or moisture may be removed from the air (i.e., the air within cabinet 310 may be dehumidified). From the cabinet 310, such dehumidified air may be expelled (e.g., upward) through air outlet 318 and returned to the ambient environment.

[0053] In some embodiments, a water tank 320 defining a reservoir is mounted (e.g., removably mounted) to cabinet 310 to receive at least a portion of the water condensation. For instance, water tank 320 may be slidably mounted to cabinet 310 below an evaporator 324.

[0054] Turning now to FIGS. 7 through 9, various views are provided of dehumidifier appliance 300 wherein various portions (e.g., outer casing or panels of cabinet 310) have been removed for clarity.

[0055] As shown, a refrigeration loop having a discrete evaporator 324 and condenser 326 (FIG. 9) may be included with dehumidifier appliance 300. Specifically, evaporator 324 may be disposed along the airflow path within cabinet 310. Relative to the flow of air, evaporator 324 may thus be mounted downstream from air inlet 316. In some embodiments, condenser 326 is further disposed along the airflow path within cabinet 310. For instance, relative to the flow of air, condenser 326 may be mounted between evaporator 324 and air outlet 318 (i.e., downstream from evaporator 324 and upstream from air outlet 318).

[0056] The refrigeration loop may further include a compressor 332 and an expansion device 334 mounted within cabinet 310 (e.g., below evaporator 324 or otherwise apart therefrom). As illustrated, compressor 332 and expansion device 334 may be in fluid communication with condenser 326 and evaporator 324 to flow refrigerant therethrough, as is generally understood. More particularly, the refrigeration loop may include various lines for flowing refrigerant between the various components thereof, thus providing the fluid communication between such components. Refrigerant may thus flow through such lines from evaporator 324 to compressor 332, from compressor 332 to condenser 326, from condenser 326 to expansion device 334, and from expansion device 334 to evaporator 324. The refrigerant may generally undergo phase changes associated with a refrigeration cycle as it flows to and through these various components, as is generally understood. One example of a suitable refrigerant for use in the refrigeration loop is 1,1,1,2-Tetrafluoroethane, also known as R-134A, although it should be understood that the present disclosure is not limited to such example and rather that any suitable refrigerant may be used.

[0057] In some embodiments, compressor 332 is a variable speed compressor 332. In this regard, compressor 332 may be operated at various speeds depending on the dehumidification needs of the room (e.g., the room in which the dehumidifier appliance 300 is disposed or a portion thereof such as a zone within a larger room) and the demand from the refrigeration loop. For example, compressor 332 may be configured to operate at any speed between a minimum speed to a maximum rated speed. In some embodiments, use of variable speed compressor 332 enables efficient operation of the refrigeration loop (and thus dehumidifier appliance 300), minimizes unnecessary noise when compressor 332 does not need to operate at full speed, and ensures a comfortable environment within the corresponding room. During a dehumidification routine, moisture within the air may thus be condensed at the evaporator 324 without excessively reducing the temperature thereof.

[0058] As shown, expansion device 334 may be disposed within the cabinet 310 in fluid communication between the evaporator 324 and the condenser 326 relative to the flow of refrigerant. In some embodiments, expansion device 334 is an electronic expansion valve that generally enables controlled expansion of refrigerant. More specifically, the expansion device 334 may be an electronic expansion valve configured to precisely control the expansion of the refrigerant to maintain, for example, a desired temperature differential of the refrigerant across the evaporator 324. In other words, electronic expansion valve 334 selectively throttles the flow of refrigerant based on the reaction of the temperature differential across evaporator 324 or the amount of superheat temperature differential, thereby ensuring that the refrigerant is in the gaseous state entering compressor 332. In alternative embodiments, expansion device 334 may be a capillary tube or another suitable expansion device configured for use in a thermodynamic cycle.

[0059] In optional embodiments, a blower fan 338 may be mounted within cabinet 310 and directed at evaporator 324 to urge or motivate the flow of air across evaporator 324. For instance, blower fan 338 may be positioned downstream of evaporator 324 relative to the airflow path through cabinet 310, as shown, to pull air through evaporator 324. Alternatively, blower fan 338 may be positioned upstream of evaporator 324 along the airflow path, and may operate to push air through evaporator 324.

[0060] The operation of dehumidifier appliance 300, including compressor 332, blower fan 338, expansion device 334, or other components of the refrigeration loop may be controlled by a processing device, such as a controller 344. Controller 344 may be operably coupled (via for example a suitable wired or wireless connection) to such components of the dehumidifier appliance 300. By way of example, the controller 344 may include a memory (e.g., non-transitive storage media) and one or more processing devices such as microprocessors, CPUs or the like, such as general or special purpose microprocessors operable to execute programming instructions or micro-control code associated with operation of dehumidifier appliance 300. The memory may represent random access memory such as DRAM, or read only memory such as ROM or FLASH. In one embodiment, the processor executes programming instructions stored in memory. The memory may be a separate component from the processor or may be included onboard within the processor.

[0061] In some embodiments, dehumidifier appliance 300 includes a control panel 340 and one or more user inputs 342, which may be included in control panel 340 (see, e.g., FIG. 6). The user inputs 342 may be operably coupled to the controller 344. A user of the dehumidifier appliance 300 may interact with the user inputs 342 to operate the dehumidifier appliance 300, and user commands may be transmitted (e.g., as command signals) between the user inputs 342 and controller 344 to facilitate operation of the dehumidifier appliance 300 based on such user commands. In particular, a unit may select a humidity input or relative amount of dehumidification at control panel 340. A display (not shown) may additionally be provided in the control panel 340 and may be operably coupled to the controller 344, for example, a display may be or may include a touchscreen or other text-readable display screen, or alternatively simply a light that can be activated and deactivated as required to provide an indication of, for example, an event or setting for the dehumidifier appliance 300.

[0062] As noted above, water condensation collects on or at evaporator 324 during use. As shown, a collection tray 346 is disposed below the evaporator 324 to receive at least a portion of such water. An elevated rim may extend above a bottom wall such that water can gather within collection tray 346. Collection tray 346 is thus generally open along the vertical direction V to receive water as it falls. A tray outlet (not pictured) may be defined through the bottom wall and thus permit water to flow therefrom (e.g., to a separate line or portion of cabinet 310) such as to the water tank 320.

[0063] Turning now to FIG. 10, a general schematic is provided of a laundry appliance 1002, which may be, e.g., the washing machine appliance 10 or the dryer appliance 11 described above (or both), a dehumidifier appliance 300, and communication features thereof. FIG. 10 schematically illustrates a laundry appliance 1002, which may be, for example, one of the laundry appliances 10 or 11 of FIGS. 1 through 3, among other possible example laundry appliances, which communicates wirelessly with a remote user interface device 1000. For example, as illustrated in FIG. 10, the laundry appliance 1002 may include an antenna 90 by which the laundry appliance 1002 communicates with, e.g., sends and receives signals to and from, the remote user interface device 1000. The laundry appliance 1002 may communicate with the remote user interface device 1000 over a direct wireless communication link or over an indirect wireless communication link, such as via a remote server, a network, or cloud 1100. The remote user interface device 1000 may be a laptop computer, smartphone, tablet, personal computer, wearable device, smart home system, and / or various other suitable devices.

[0064] The antenna 90 may be provided in or on a wireless communication module of the laundry appliance 1002. The wireless communication module may be integrated with the controller 210 (see, e.g.,. FIG. 1) of the laundry appliance 1002 or may be separate from and communicatively coupled to the controller 210. Thus, the controller 210 may be in wireless communication with the cloud 1100 and the remote user interface device 1000, e.g., may send and receive signals to and from the cloud 1100 and / or remote user interface device 1000 over the air, via the antenna 90, and may operate the laundry appliance 1002 in accordance with data conveyed via such signals. Similarly, the controller 344 of the dehumidifier appliance 300 may also be in wireless communication with at least the cloud 1100.

[0065] The laundry appliance 1002 may be in communication with the remote user interface device 1000 device through various possible communication connections and interfaces. The laundry appliance 1002 and the remote user interface device 1000 may be matched in wireless communication, e.g., connected to the same wireless network. The laundry appliance 1002 may communicate with the remote user interface device 1000 via short-range radio such as BLUETOOTH® or any other suitable wireless network having a layer protocol architecture. As used herein, “short-range” may include ranges less than about ten meters and up to about one hundred meters. For example, the wireless network may be adapted for short-wavelength ultra-high frequency (UHF) communications in a band between 2.4 GHz and 2.485 GHz (e.g., according to the IEEE 802.15.1 standard). In particular, BLUETOOTH® Low Energy, e.g., BLUETOOTH® Version 4.0 or higher, may advantageously provide short-range wireless communication between the appliance 10 and the remote user interface device 1000. For example, BLUETOOTH® Low Energy may advantageously minimize the power consumed by the exemplary methods and devices described herein due to the low power networking protocol of BLUETOOTH® Low Energy.

[0066] The remote user interface device 1000 is “remote” at least in that it is spaced apart from and not physically connected to the laundry appliance 1002, e.g., the remote user interface device 1000 is a separate, stand-alone device from the laundry appliance 1002 which communicates with the laundry appliance 1002 wirelessly. Any suitable device separate from the laundry appliance 1002 that is configured to provide and / or receive communications, information, data, or commands from a user may serve as the remote user interface device 1000, such as a smartphone (e.g., as illustrated in FIG. 10), smart watch, personal computer, smart home system, or other similar device. For example, the remote user interface device 1000 may be a smartphone operable to store and run applications, also known as “apps,” and some or all of the method steps disclosed herein may be performed by a smartphone app.

[0067] The remote user interface device 1000 may include a memory for storing and retrieving programming instructions. Thus, the remote user interface device 1000 may provide a remote user interface which may be an additional user interface to the user interface panel 100 of laundry appliance 1002 and / or control panel 340 of dehumidifier appliance 300. For example, the remote user interface device 1000 may be a smartphone operable to store and run applications, also known as “apps,” and the remote user interface may be provided as a smartphone app.

[0068] As mentioned above, the laundry appliance 1002 and the dehumidifier appliance 300 may also be configured to communicate wirelessly with cloud 1100, e.g., in the same or similar manner as described above with reference to the laundry appliance 1002 and the remote user interface device 1000. The cloud 1100 is depicted schematically in FIG. 10 and explanation thereof is provided herein by way of example only and without limitation. More generally, the laundry appliance 1002 and the dehumidifier appliance 300 may be in wireless communication with one or more remote computing devices, such as a remote database, a remote server, etc., in various network configurations and / or distributed computing environments, such as the fog or edge, as well as or instead of the cloud. For example, the cloud 1100 may be or may include a remote database, e.g., a cloud-based data storage system. For example, the laundry appliance 1002 and dehumidifier appliance 300 may communicate with such remote database (and / or other remote computing device(s) as mentioned) over the Internet, which the laundry appliance 1002 and dehumidifier appliance 300 may access via WI-FI®, such as from a WI-FI® access point.

[0069] FIG. 11 illustrates an exemplary floor plan 500 of a facility, such as a laundromat, comprising one or more rooms, e.g., a single room as illustrated in FIG. 5, where the single room includes multiple laundry appliances 10, 11, and multiple dehumidifier appliance 300 located therein. The facility represented by the floor plan 500 may be, e.g., a laundry room in a dormitory or apartment complex, or any other facility in which multiple commercial laundry appliances may be located.

[0070] As illustrated for example in FIG. 5, the laundry facility, e.g., laundromat may have several zones defined therein, and each zone may be served by a single dehumidifier appliance 300 therein. For example, a first zone 502, a second zone 504, a third zone 506, and a fourth zone 508 are illustrated in FIG. 11. For example, each dehumidifier appliance 300 may be configured, e.g., sized, to dehumidify a predefined volume (e.g., cubic feet) of air, and the zones, e.g., zones 502, 504, 506, and 508, may generally correspond to the predefined volume of air that each dehumidifier appliance 300 is configured to handle. In various embodiments, a single zone may be defined, e.g., coextensive with the room itself, or two or three zones may be defined, or any other suitable number of zones, e.g., more than four zones. Additionally, the zones may vary in size, e.g., multiples zones of distinct sizes may be defined in a room, or the zones may be generally congruent, e.g., as illustrated in FIG. 11. The dehumidifier appliance 300 in each zone may be positioned proximate to a plurality of laundry appliances 10, 11 in order to reduce the humidity of the ambient environment around each laundry appliance 10, 11. For example, the dehumidifier appliance 300 in each zone may be positioned and configured to remove excess moisture from the air which may be emitted from the laundry appliances, such as moisture released when a door or doors of one or more of the laundry appliances is opened. In particular, the laundry appliances 10, 11 in each zone may be linked to the respective dehumidifier appliance 300, e.g., by an owner of the laundromat using management software, to coordinate the operations of the laundry appliances 10, 11 and the respective dehumidifier appliance 300. For example, such management software may be loaded in a device such as the remote user interface device 1000 described above in reference to FIG. 10 and / or other similar devices, and may be used to control the operations of one or more laundry appliances 10,11 and / or dehumidifier appliances 300, such as to perform some or all aspects of the exemplary methods described below.

[0071] Embodiments of the present disclosure also include methods of operating a laundry appliance and a dehumidifier appliance, such as the exemplary method 600 illustrated in FIG. 12. As mentioned above, exemplary methods according to the present subject matter may be wholly or partially computer-implemented, such as implemented by a controller, e.g., controller 210 and / or 344, of one or more appliances and / or implemented by one or more remote computing devices, e.g., in the cloud, fog, and / or edge.

[0072] As illustrated in FIG. 12, the method 600 may include (610) commissioning the laundry appliance in a remote computing device, and commissioning the laundry appliance includes linking the laundry appliance to the dehumidifier appliance. For example, commissioning the laundry appliance may be or may include an initial setup of the laundry appliance, such as connecting the laundry appliance to a WI-FI® network for the first time and / or adding the laundry appliance to a user account, e.g., in the cloud, in a remote database or other similar remote device for user account information storage and retrieval. In some embodiments, the laundry appliance may be one of a plurality or group of laundry appliances, e.g., a group of laundry appliances such as washing machine appliances 10 described above, dryer appliances 11 described above, among other possible exemplary laundry appliances and combinations of laundry appliances (e.g., washers and dryers together in the same group). For example, the laundry appliance which is commissioned at (610) may be a first laundry appliance of the plurality of laundry appliances. Also in embodiments where a plurality of laundry appliances are provided, more than dehumidifier appliance, e.g., a plurality of dehumidifier appliances, may be provided, such that the dehumidifier appliance with which the first laundry appliance is linked at (610) may be a first dehumidifier appliance of the plurality of dehumidifier appliances.

[0073] Method 600 may further include (620) performing an operation cycle, e.g., a laundry cycle, with the laundry appliance. The operation cycle may include treating a load of articles within the laundry appliance. For example, liquid water and / or liquid additives (e.g., “wash fluid” as described above) may be used to treat the load of articles in the laundry appliance, e.g., where the laundry appliance is a washing machine appliance, and at least a portion of such wash fluid may remain in the tub of the washing machine appliance and / or absorbed in the articles. Thus, opening a door of the laundry appliance may expose the tub, and the relatively high (as compared to the ambient conditions around the washing machine appliance) humidity therein to the remainder of the room. Furthermore, some of the liquid absorbed into the articles may be released into the atmosphere when removing the articles from the washing machine after the laundry operation. As another example, e.g., where the laundry appliance is a dryer appliance, treatment of the articles may be or may include removal of moisture absorbed therein, e.g., whereby air within the dryer appliance receives moisture that is extracted from the articles, thereby increasing the humidity within the dryer appliance above that of the ambient environment around the dryer appliance. Thus, opening a door of the laundry appliance may expose the drum, and humid air therein, to the remainder of the room. Accordingly, in these examples, humidity in the room may increase after the laundry operation, such as when a door of the laundry appliance is opened, such that it may be desirable to activate a dehumidifier appliance when the door is opened.

[0074] As illustrated at (630) in FIG. 12, method 600 may include detecting, by the remote computing device, an end of the second laundry cycle. For example, detecting the end of the laundry cycle may include sending a signal from the laundry appliance to the remote computing device. The signal may be, e.g., representative of a door opening, such as the laundry appliance may detect that the door was opened after performing a laundry operation and may then transmit a signal (from or by the controller 210 of the laundry appliance) to the remote computing device which includes information representing or corresponding to the door opening.

[0075] In response to detecting the end of the laundry cycle, the remote computing device may activate the dehumidifier appliance, e.g., as indicated at (640) in FIG. 12. For example, upon receiving the signal indicated the end of the laundry cycle, such as indicating the door opening, the remote computing device may determine, e.g., look up, that the dehumidifier appliance is linked to the laundry appliance and then transmit a signal to the dehumidifier appliance which causes the dehumidifier appliance to activate.

[0076] Method 600 may further include ending the dehumidification cycle and deactivating the dehumidifier appliance based on reaching a desired humidity level, e.g., as indicated at (650) in FIG. 12. The dehumidifier appliance may then remain idle, e.g., deactivated, until the next call for dehumidification from the remote computing device in response to a detected end of an operation cycle of a laundry appliance (e.g., the same laundry appliance or another laundry appliance in the same laundromat or other room, or another laundry appliance in the same zone within a room). Accordingly, the desired humidity level may be achieved without constantly running the dehumidifier appliance, and thus the cost and energy consumption from operating the dehumidifier appliance may be reduced, as well as the useful service life of the dehumidifier appliance may be increased.

[0077] As mentioned above, the exemplary methods described herein may be used with more than one laundry appliance and more than one dehumidifier appliance. For example, embodiments of the present disclosure include methods of operating a plurality of laundry appliances and a plurality of dehumidifier appliances, as well as methods of operating a plurality of laundry appliances and a dehumidifier appliance, e.g., a single dehumidifier appliance linked with multiple laundry appliances.

[0078] For example, some embodiments may include commissioning a first laundry appliance and a second laundry appliance of the plurality of laundry appliances in a remote computing device. In such embodiments, each laundry appliance may be linked in the remote computing device to a dehumidifier appliance during commissioning. For example, commissioning the first laundry appliance may include linking the first laundry appliance to a first dehumidifier appliance of the plurality of dehumidifier appliances, and commissioning the second laundry appliance comprises linking the second laundry appliance to the first dehumidifier appliance of the plurality of dehumidifier appliances. Such embodiments may also include commissioning a third laundry appliance of the plurality of laundry appliances in the remote computing device, and commissioning the third laundry appliance may include linking the third laundry appliance to a second dehumidifier appliance of the plurality of dehumidifier appliances.

[0079] Such embodiments may further include performing a first laundry cycle with the first laundry appliance and detecting, by the remote computing device, an end of the first laundry cycle. In response to detecting the end of the first laundry cycle, the remote computing device may activate the first dehumidifier appliance to perform a first dehumidification cycle. Such methods may also include ending the first dehumidification cycle and deactivating the first dehumidifier appliance based on reaching a desired humidity level. Further, such methods may include performing a second laundry cycle with the second laundry appliance and detecting, by the remote computing device, an end of the second laundry cycle. In response to detecting the end of the second laundry cycle, the remote computing device may activate the first dehumidifier appliance to perform a second dehumidification cycle. The second dehumidification cycle may be ended, and the first dehumidifier appliance deactivated, based on reaching the desired humidity level. Exemplary methods may further include performing a third laundry cycle with the third laundry appliance and detecting, by the remote computing device, an end of the third laundry cycle. In response to detecting the end of the third laundry cycle, the remote computing device may activate the second dehumidifier appliance to perform a third dehumidification cycle. For example, such embodiments may further include ending the third dehumidification cycle and deactivating the second dehumidifier appliance based on reaching the desired humidity level.

[0080] For example, detecting the end of a laundry cycle, e.g., the first laundry cycle, second laundry cycle, etc., may include sending a signal from the respective laundry appliance to the remote computing device, and activating a dehumidifier appliance to perform a dehumidification cycle may include sending a signal from the remote computing device to the respective dehumidifier appliance (e.g., to which the laundry appliance that performed the cycle is linked) in response to the signal from the respective laundry appliance. In some embodiments, the signal from the laundry appliance may be or may include a signal which indicates a door opening of the respective laundry appliance.

[0081] As mentioned, the dehumidifier appliance may be inactive for a period of time, thereby reducing energy consumption and increasing the service life of the dehumidifier appliance. For example, in some embodiments, the second laundry cycle may be performed after ending the first dehumidification cycle, and the third laundry cycle may be performed after ending the second dehumidification cycle, e.g., the dehumidifier appliance (or appliances) may be inactive between laundry cycles.

[0082] Some embodiments may include a delay time, e.g., which may further reduce the running time of the dehumidifiers. For example, some exemplary methods may include waiting for a delay time after detecting the end of the first laundry cycle and before activating the first dehumidifier appliance to perform the first dehumidification cycle, waiting for the delay time after detecting the end of the second laundry cycle and before activating the first dehumidifier appliance to perform the second dehumidification cycle, and waiting for the delay time after detecting the end of the third laundry cycle and before activating the second dehumidifier appliance to perform the third dehumidification cycle. The delay time may be, for example, between about five seconds and about two minutes, such as about ten seconds, such as about thirty seconds, such as about one minute.

[0083] The skilled artisan will recognize the interchangeability of various features from different embodiments. Similarly, the various method steps and features described, as well as other known equivalents for each such methods and feature, can be mixed and matched by one of ordinary skill in this art to construct additional systems and techniques in accordance with principles of this disclosure. Of course, it is to be understood that not necessarily all such objects or advantages described above may be achieved in accordance with any particular embodiment. Thus, for example, those skilled in the art will recognize that the systems and techniques described herein may be embodied or carried out in a manner that achieves or optimizes one advantage or group of advantages as taught herein without necessarily achieving other objects or advantages as may be taught or suggested herein.

[0084] It should be understood that the foregoing method steps, e.g., of method 600, may be computer-implemented, such as implemented at least in part by a remote computing device, e.g., in a distributed computing environment such as the cloud, fog, and / or edge, as mentioned above. Such embodiments may also include one or more steps performed by a remote user interface device which is in communication with the remote computing device, where the remote user interface device and the remote computing device are both remote from the laundry appliances, e.g., as described above with respect to FIG. 10, and are remote from each other.

[0085] This written description uses examples to disclose the invention, including the best mode, and also to enable any person skilled in the art to practice the invention, including making and using any devices or systems and performing any incorporated methods. The patentable scope of the invention is defined by the claims, and may include other examples that occur to those skilled in the art. Such other examples are intended to be within the scope of the claims if they include structural elements that do not differ from the literal language of the claims, or if they include equivalent structural elements with insubstantial differences from the literal languages of the claims.

Examples

Embodiment Construction

[0024]Reference now will be made in detail to embodiments of the invention, one or more examples of which are illustrated in the drawings. Each example is provided by way of explanation of the invention, not limitation of the invention. In fact, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations can be made in the present invention without departing from the scope or spirit of the invention. For instance, features illustrated or described as part of one embodiment can be used with another embodiment to yield a still further embodiment. Thus, it is intended that the present invention covers such modifications and variations as come within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents.

[0025]As used herein, terms of approximation, such as “generally,”“approximately,” or “about” include values within ten percent greater or less than the stated value. When used in the context of an angle or direction, such terms include within ten degrees g...

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present subject matter relates generally to systems and methods for managing humidity, such as managing humidity within an enclosed space that houses a group of laundry appliances, e.g., a laundromat, using one or more dehumidifier appliances which are lined to one or more of the laundry appliances.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] Laundry appliances generally include washing machine appliances and dryer appliances. Some laundry appliances, such as commercial laundry appliances, may be organized in groups, e.g., with multiple washing machine appliances and multiple dryer appliances in the group. For example, such larger groups may be found in a laundromat, dormitory, or apartment building, etc.

[0003] Operations of the laundry appliances, e.g., washing and drying laundry and / or other articles in such appliances, generates humidity which is often released into the ambient atmosphere surrounding the laundry appliances, such as when a door of a laundry appliance is opened after completing an operation cycle of the laundry appliance. In particular where a group of laundry appliances are located in the same room or area, e.g., in a laundromat, the humidity in the single room may accumulate to a significant level over time when many laundry operation cycles are performed.

[0004] Some laundry facilities, e.g., laundromat or the like, employ a dehumidifier appliance to manage (e.g., reduce) this accumulated humidity. Existing techniques, however, generally include constantly running the dehumidifier which may lead to excess energy usage and associated increased costs, as well as may reduce the useful service life of the dehumidifier appliance.

[0005] Thus, systems and methods for smart dehumidification in a laundromat, such as on-demand dehumidification and automatic deactivation of the dehumidifier appliance, would be beneficial.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0006] Aspects and advantages of the invention will be set forth in part in the following description, or may be obvious from the description, or may be learned through practice of the invention.

[0007] In accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure, a method of operating a plurality of laundry appliances and a plurality of dehumidifier appliances is provided. The method includes commissioning a first laundry appliance of the plurality of laundry appliances in a remote computing device. Commissioning the first laundry appliance includes linking the first laundry appliance to a first dehumidifier appliance of the plurality of dehumidifier appliances. The method also includes commissioning a second laundry appliance of the plurality of laundry appliances in the remote computing device. Commissioning the second laundry appliance includes linking the second laundry appliance to the first dehumidifier appliance of the plurality of dehumidifier appliances. The method further includes commissioning a third laundry appliance of the plurality of laundry appliances in the remote computing device. Commissioning the third laundry appliance includes linking the third laundry appliance to a second dehumidifier appliance of the plurality of dehumidifier appliances. The method also includes performing a first laundry cycle with the first laundry appliance and detecting, by the remote computing device, an end of the first laundry cycle. In response to detecting the end of the first laundry cycle, the remote computing device activates the first dehumidifier appliance to perform a first dehumidification cycle. The method further includes ending the first dehumidification cycle and deactivating the first dehumidifier appliance based on reaching a desired humidity level. The method also includes performing a second laundry cycle with the second laundry appliance and detecting, by the remote computing device, an end of the second laundry cycle. In response to detecting the end of the second laundry cycle, the remote computing device activates the first dehumidifier appliance to perform a second dehumidification cycle. The method further includes ending the second dehumidification cycle and deactivating the first dehumidifier appliance based on reaching the desired humidity level. The method also includes performing a third laundry cycle with the third laundry appliance and detecting, by the remote computing device, an end of the third laundry cycle. In response to detecting the end of the third laundry cycle, the remote computing device activates the second dehumidifier appliance to perform a third dehumidification cycle. The method further includes ending the third dehumidification cycle and deactivating the second dehumidifier appliance based on reaching the desired humidity level.

[0008] In accordance with another embodiment of the present disclosure, a method of operating a plurality of laundry appliances and a dehumidifier appliance is provided. The method includes commissioning a first laundry appliance of the plurality of laundry appliances in a remote computing device. Commissioning the first laundry appliance includes linking the first laundry appliance to the dehumidifier appliance. The method also includes commissioning a second laundry appliance of the plurality of laundry appliances in the remote computing device. Commissioning the second laundry appliance includes linking the second laundry appliance to the dehumidifier appliance. The method further includes performing a first laundry cycle with the first laundry appliance and detecting, by the remote computing device, an end of the first laundry cycle. The method also includes activating, by the remote device, the dehumidifier appliance to perform a first dehumidification cycle in response to detecting the end of the first laundry cycle. The method further includes ending the first dehumidification cycle and deactivating the dehumidifier appliance based on reaching a desired humidity level. The method also includes performing a second laundry cycle with the second laundry appliance and detecting, by the remote computing device, an end of the second laundry cycle. The method further includes activating, by the remote device, the dehumidifier appliance to perform a second dehumidification cycle in response to detecting the end of the second laundry cycle and ending the second dehumidification cycle and deactivating the dehumidifier appliance based on reaching the desired humidity level.

[0009] In accordance with yet another embodiment of the present disclosure, a method of operating a laundry appliance and a dehumidifier appliance is provided. The method includes performing an operation cycle of the laundry appliance, which causes a load of articles to be treated in the laundry appliance. The method also includes activating the dehumidifier appliance after the operation cycle of the laundry appliance and deactivating the dehumidifier appliance after a desired humidity level is reached.

[0010] These and other features, aspects and advantages of the present invention will become better understood with reference to the following description and appended claims. The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate embodiments of the invention and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the invention.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0011] A full and enabling disclosure of the present invention, including the best mode thereof, directed to one of ordinary skill in the art, is set forth in the specification, which makes reference to the appended figures.

[0012] FIG. 1 provides a front view of an exemplary washing machine appliance and an exemplary dryer appliance in accordance with one or more exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0013] FIG. 2 provides a transverse cross-sectional view of the exemplary washing machine appliance of FIG. 1.

[0014] FIG. 3 provides a perspective view of the exemplary dryer appliance of FIG. 1 with portions of a cabinet of the dryer appliance removed to reveal certain components of the dryer appliance.

[0015] FIG. 4 provides a front elevation view of a dehumidifier appliance according to one or more exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0016] FIG. 5 provides a rear elevation view of the exemplary dehumidifier appliance of FIG. 4.

[0017] FIG. 6 provides a top perspective view of the exemplary dehumidifier appliance of FIG. 4.

[0018] FIG. 7 provides a front perspective view of the exemplary dehumidifier appliance of FIG. 4, wherein an outer panel and water bucket have been removed for clarity.

[0019] FIG. 8 provides a rear perspective view of the exemplary dehumidifier appliance of FIG. 4, wherein an outer panel has been removed for clarity.

[0020] FIG. 9 provides a side perspective view of the exemplary dehumidifier appliance of FIG. 4, wherein an outer panel has been removed for clarity.

[0021] FIG. 10 provides a schematic diagram of a laundry appliance and a dehumidifier appliance in communication with a remote user interface device and a remote database according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0022] FIG. 11 provides a schematic representation of a plurality of dehumidifier appliances and a plurality of laundry appliances which are collectively located in a single room, where each laundry appliance may be linked to one of the dehumidifier appliances.

[0023] FIG. 12 provides a flowchart illustrating an example method of according to one or more additional embodiments of the present disclosure.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0024] Reference now will be made in detail to embodiments of the invention, one or more examples of which are illustrated in the drawings. Each example is provided by way of explanation of the invention, not limitation of the invention. In fact, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations can be made in the present invention without departing from the scope or spirit of the invention. For instance, features illustrated or described as part of one embodiment can be used with another embodiment to yield a still further embodiment. Thus, it is intended that the present invention covers such modifications and variations as come within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents.

[0025] As used herein, terms of approximation, such as “generally,”“approximately,” or “about” include values within ten percent greater or less than the stated value. When used in the context of an angle or direction, such terms include within ten degrees greater or less than the stated angle or direction. For example, “generally vertical” includes directions within ten degrees of vertical in any direction, e.g., clockwise or counter-clockwise.

[0026] As may be seen in FIGS. 1 through 3, in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present subject matter, a group of at least two laundry appliances, e.g., a pair of laundry appliances is provided.

[0027] As may be seen generally throughout FIGS. 1 through 3, a user interface panel 100 and a user input device 102 may be positioned on an exterior of each laundry appliance. The user input device 102 is generally positioned proximate to the user interface panel 100, and in some embodiments, the user input device 102 may be positioned on the user interface panel 100.

[0028] In various embodiments, the user interface panel 100 may represent a general purpose I / O (“GPIO”) device or functional block. In some embodiments, the user interface panel 100 may include or be in operative communication with user input device 102, such as one or more of a variety of digital, analog, electrical, mechanical or electro-mechanical input devices including rotary dials, control knobs, push buttons, and touch pads. The user interface panel 100 may include a display component 104, such as a digital or analog display device designed to provide operational feedback to a user. The display component 104 may also be a touchscreen capable of receiving a user input, such that the display component 104 may also be a user input device in addition to or instead of the user input device 102.

[0029] Generally, each appliance may include a controller 210 in operative communication with the user input device 102. The user interface panel 100 and the user input device 102 may be in communication with the controller 210 via, for example, one or more signal lines or shared communication busses. Input / output (“I / O”) signals may be routed between controller 210 and various operational components of the appliance. Operation of the appliance can be regulated by the controller 210 that is operatively coupled to the user interface panel 100. A user interface panel 100 may for example provide selections for user manipulation of the operation of an appliance, e.g., via user input device 102 and / or display 104. In response to user manipulation of the user interface panel 100 and / or user input device 102, the controller 210 may operate various components of the appliance. Controller 210 may include a memory and one or more microprocessors, CPUs or the like, such as general or special purpose microprocessors operable to execute programming instructions or micro-control code associated with operation of the appliance. The memory may represent random access memory such as DRAM, or read only memory such as ROM or FLASH. In one embodiment, the processor executes programming instructions stored in memory. The memory may be a separate component from the processor or may be included onboard within the processor. Alternatively, a controller 210 may be constructed without using a microprocessor, e.g., using a combination of discrete analog and / or digital logic circuitry (such as switches, amplifiers, integrators, comparators, flip-flops, AND gates, and the like) to perform control functionality instead of relying upon software.

[0030] The controller 210 may be programmed to operate the appliance by executing instructions stored in memory. For example, the instructions may be software or any set of instructions that when executed by the processing device, cause the processing device to perform operations. Controller 210 can include one or more processor(s) and associated memory device(s) configured to perform a variety of computer-implemented functions and / or instructions (e.g., performing the methods, steps, calculations and the like and storing relevant data as disclosed herein). It should be noted that controllers 210 as disclosed herein are capable of and may be operable to perform any methods and associated method steps as disclosed herein.

[0031] In some embodiments, for example, as illustrated in FIG. 1, the group of laundry appliances may include one or more of each of a washing machine appliance 10 and a dryer appliance 11. In embodiments such as illustrated in FIG. 1, the user input device 102 of each appliance 10 and 11 may be positioned on the user interface panel 100. The embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1 also includes a display 104 on the user interface panel 100 of each laundry appliance 10 and 11.

[0032] As generally seen throughout FIGS. 1 through 3, in at least some embodiments, each laundry appliance 10 and 11 includes a cabinet 12 which defines a vertical direction V and a lateral direction L that are mutually perpendicular. Each cabinet 12 extends between a top side 16 and a bottom side14 along the vertical direction V. Each cabinet 12 also extends between a left side 18 and a right side 20, e.g., along the lateral direction L.

[0033] Additional exemplary details of the laundry appliances are illustrated in FIGS. 2 and 3. For example, FIG. 2 provides a cross-sectional view of the exemplary washing machine appliance 10. As illustrated in FIG. 2, a wash tub 124 is non-rotatably mounted within cabinet 12. As may be seen in FIG. 2, the wash tub 124 defines a central axis 101. In the example embodiment illustrated by FIG. 2, the central axis 101 may be oriented generally along or parallel to the transverse direction T of the washing machine appliance 10. Accordingly, the washing machine appliance 10 may be referred to as a horizontal axis washing machine.

[0034] Referring again to FIG. 2, a wash basket 120 is rotatably mounted within the tub 124 such that the wash basket 120 is rotatable about an axis of rotation, which generally coincides with central axis 101 of the tub 124. A motor 122, e.g., such as a pancake motor, is in mechanical communication with wash basket 120 to selectively rotate wash basket 120 (e.g., during an agitation or a rinse cycle of washing machine appliance 10). Wash basket 120 defines a wash chamber 126 that is configured for receipt of articles for washing. The wash tub 124 holds wash and rinse fluids for agitation in wash basket 120 within wash tub 124. As used herein, “wash fluid” may refer to water, detergent, fabric softener, bleach, or any other suitable wash additive or combination thereof. The wash basket 120 and the tub 124 may collectively define at least a portion of a tub assembly for the washing machine appliance 10.

[0035] Wash basket 120 may define one or more agitator features that extend into wash chamber 126 to assist in agitation and cleaning of articles disposed within wash chamber 126 during operation of washing machine appliance 10. For example, as illustrated in FIG. 2, a plurality of ribs 128 extends from basket 120 into wash chamber 126. In this manner, for example, ribs 128 may lift articles disposed in wash basket 120 during rotation of wash basket 120.

[0036] Referring generally to FIGS. 1 and 2, cabinet 12 also includes a front panel 130 which defines an opening 132 that permits user access to wash basket 120 within wash tub 124. More specifically, washing machine appliance 10 includes a door 134 that is positioned in front of opening 132 and is rotatably mounted to front panel 130. Door 134 is rotatable such that door 134 permits selective access to opening 132 by rotating between an open position (not shown) facilitating access to a wash tub 124 and a closed position (FIG. 1) prohibiting access to wash tub 124.

[0037] A window 136 in door 134 permits viewing of wash basket 120 when door 134 is in the closed position, e.g., during operation of washing machine appliance 10. Door 134 also includes a handle (not shown) that, e.g., a user may pull when opening and closing door 134. Further, although door 134 is illustrated as mounted to front panel 130, it should be appreciated that door 134 may be mounted to another side of cabinet 12 or any other suitable support according to alternative embodiments.

[0038] Referring again to FIG. 2, wash basket 120 also defines a plurality of perforations 140 in order to facilitate fluid communication between an interior of basket 120 and wash tub 124. A sump 142 is defined by wash tub 124 at a bottom of wash tub 124 along the vertical direction V. Thus, sump 142 is configured for receipt of and generally collects wash fluid during operation of washing machine appliance 10. For example, during operation of washing machine appliance 10, wash fluid may be urged by gravity from basket 120 to sump 142 through plurality of perforations 140. A pump assembly 144 is located beneath tub 124 for gravity assisted flow when draining tub 124, e.g., via a drain 146. Pump assembly 144 may be configured for recirculating wash fluid within wash tub 124.

[0039] A spout 150 is configured for directing a flow of fluid into wash tub 124. For example, spout 150 may be in fluid communication with a water supply (not shown) in order to direct fluid (e.g., clean water) into wash tub 124. Spout 150 may also be in fluid communication with the sump 142. For example, pump assembly 144 may direct wash fluid disposed in sump 142 to spout 150 in order to circulate wash fluid in wash tub 124.

[0040] As illustrated in FIG. 2, a detergent drawer 152 is slidably mounted within front panel 130. Detergent drawer 152 receives a wash additive (e.g., detergent, fabric softener, bleach, or any other suitable liquid or powder) and directs the fluid additive to wash chamber 124 during operation of washing machine appliance 10. According to the illustrated embodiment, detergent drawer 152 may also be fluidly coupled to spout 150 to facilitate the complete and accurate dispensing of wash additive.

[0041] Additionally, a bulk reservoir 154 is disposed within cabinet 12. Bulk reservoir 154 is also configured for receipt of fluid additive for use during operation of washing machine appliance 10. Bulk reservoir 154 is sized such that a volume of fluid additive sufficient for a plurality or multitude of wash cycles of washing machine appliance 10 (e.g., five, ten, twenty, fifty, or any other suitable number of wash cycles) may fill bulk reservoir 154. Thus, for example, a user can fill bulk reservoir 154 with fluid additive and operate washing machine appliance 10 for a plurality of wash cycles without refilling bulk reservoir 154 with fluid additive. A reservoir pump 156 is configured for selective delivery of the fluid additive from bulk reservoir 154 to wash tub 124.

[0042] During operation of washing machine appliance 10, e.g., during a wash cycle of the washing machine appliance 10, a laundry items are loaded into wash basket 120 through opening 132, and washing operation is initiated through operator manipulation of input selectors 102. Wash tub 124 is filled with water, detergent, and / or other fluid additives, e.g., via spout 150 and / or detergent drawer 152. One or more valves (not shown) can be controlled by washing machine appliance 10 to provide for filling wash basket 120 to the appropriate level for the amount of articles being washed and / or rinsed. By way of example for a wash mode, once wash basket 120 is properly filled with fluid, the contents of wash basket 120 can be agitated (e.g., with ribs 128) for washing of laundry items in wash basket 120.

[0043] After the agitation phase of the wash cycle is completed, wash tub 124 can be drained. Laundry articles can then be rinsed by again adding fluid to wash tub 124, depending on the particulars of the cleaning cycle selected by a user. Ribs 128 may again provide agitation within wash basket 120. One or more spin cycles may also be used. In particular, a spin cycle may be applied after the wash cycle and / or after the rinse cycle in order to wring wash fluid from the articles being washed. During a spin cycle, basket 120 is rotated at relatively high speeds. After articles disposed in wash basket 120 are cleaned and / or washed, the user can remove the articles from wash basket 120, e.g., by opening door 134 and reaching into wash basket 120 through opening 132.

[0044] While described in the context of a specific embodiment of horizontal axis washing machine appliance 10, using the teachings disclosed herein it will be understood that horizontal axis washing machine appliance 10 is provided by way of example only. It should be appreciated that the present subject matter is not limited to any particular style, model, or configuration of washing machine appliance. Other washing machine appliances having different configurations, different appearances, and / or different features may also be utilized with the present subject matter as well, e.g., vertical axis washing machine appliances.

[0045] FIG. 3 provides a perspective view of the dryer appliance 11 of FIG. 1, which is an example embodiment of a household appliance, with a portion of a cabinet or housing 12 of dryer appliance 11 removed in order to show certain components of dryer appliance 11. Dryer appliance 11 generally defines a vertical direction V, a lateral direction L, and a transverse direction T, each of which is mutually perpendicular, such that an orthogonal coordinate system is defined. While described in the context of a specific embodiment of dryer appliance 11, using the teachings disclosed herein, it will be understood that dryer appliance 11 is provided by way of example only. Other dryer appliances having different appearances and different features may also be utilized with the present subject matter as well.

[0046] Cabinet 12 includes a front side 22 and a rear side 24 spaced apart from each other along the transverse direction T. Within cabinet 12, an interior volume 29 is defined. A drum or container 26 is mounted for rotation about a substantially horizontal axis within the interior volume 29. Drum 26 defines a chamber 25 for receipt of articles of clothing for tumbling and / or drying. Drum 26 extends between a front portion 37 and a back portion 38. Drum 26 also includes a back or rear wall 34, e.g., at back portion 38 of drum 26. A supply duct 41 may be mounted to rear wall 34 and receives heated air that has been heated by a heating assembly or system 40.

[0047] As used herein, the terms “clothing” or “articles” include but need not be limited to fabrics, textiles, garments, linens, papers, or other items from which the extraction of moisture is desirable. Furthermore, the term “load” or “laundry load” refers to the combination of clothing that may be washed together in a washing machine 10 or dried together in a dryer appliance 11 (e.g., clothes dryer) and may include a mixture of different or similar articles of clothing of different or similar types and kinds of fabrics, textiles, garments and linens within a particular laundering process.

[0048] A motor 31 is provided in some embodiments to rotate drum 26 about the horizontal axis, e.g., via a pulley and a belt (not pictured). Drum 26 is generally cylindrical in shape, having an outer cylindrical wall 28 and a front flange or wall 30 that defines an opening 32 of drum 26, e.g., at front portion 37 of drum 26, for loading and unloading of articles into and out of chamber 25 of drum 26. A plurality of lifters or baffles 27 are provided within chamber 25 of drum 26 to lift articles therein and then allow such articles to tumble back to a bottom of drum 26 as drum 26 rotates. Baffles 27 may be mounted to drum 26 such that baffles 27 rotate with drum 26 during operation of dryer appliance 11.

[0049] The rear wall 34 of drum 26 may be rotatably supported within the cabinet 12 by a suitable fixed bearing. Rear wall 34 can be fixed or can be rotatable. Rear wall 34 may include, for instance, a plurality of holes that receive hot air that has been heated by heating system 40. The heating system 40 may include, e.g., a heat pump, an electric heating element, and / or a gas heating element (e.g., gas burner). Moisture laden, heated air is drawn from drum 26 by an air handler, such as blower fan 48, which generates a negative air pressure within drum 26. The moisture laden heated air passes through a duct 44 enclosing screen filter 46, which traps lint particles. As the air passes from blower fan 48, it enters a duct 50 and then is passed into heating system 40. In some embodiments, the dryer appliance 11 may be a conventional dryer appliance, e.g., the heating system 40 may be or include an electric heating element, e.g., a resistive heating element, or a gas-powered heating element, e.g., a gas burner. In other embodiments, the dryer appliance may be a condensation dryer, such as a heat pump dryer. In such embodiments, heating system 40 may be or include a heat pump including a sealed refrigerant circuit. Heated air (with a lower moisture content than was received from drum 26), exits heating system 40 and returns to drum 26 by duct 41. After the clothing articles have been dried, they are removed from the drum 26 via opening 32. A door (FIG. 1) provides for closing or accessing drum 26 through opening 32.

[0050] In some embodiments, one or more selector inputs 102, such as knobs, buttons, touchscreen interfaces, etc., may be provided or mounted on the cabinet 12 (e.g., on a backsplash 71) and are in operable communication (e.g., electrically coupled or coupled through a wireless network band) with the processing device or controller 210. Controller 210 may also be provided in operable communication with components of the dryer appliance 11 including motor 31, blower 48, or heating system 40. In turn, signals generated in controller 210 direct operation of motor 31, blower 48, or heating system 40 in response to the position of inputs 102. As used herein, “processing device” or “controller” may refer to one or more microprocessors, microcontroller, ASICS, or semiconductor devices and is not restricted necessarily to a single element. The controller 210 may be programmed to operate dryer appliance 11 by executing instructions stored in memory (e.g., non-transitory media). The controller 210 may include, or be associated with, one or more memory elements such as RAM, ROM, or electrically erasable, programmable read only memory (EEPROM). For example, the instructions may be software or any set of instructions that when executed by the processing device, cause the processing device to perform operations. It should be noted that controllers as disclosed herein are capable of and may be operable to perform any methods and associated method steps as disclosed herein. For example, in some embodiments, methods disclosed herein may be embodied in programming instructions stored in the memory and executed by the controller 210.

[0051] Turning now to FIGS. 4 through 6, various views are provided of an assembled dehumidifier appliance 300 according to exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. Generally, dehumidifier appliance 300 includes a cabinet 310 that defines a vertical direction V, a lateral direction L, and a transverse direction T. Each direction V, L, T is perpendicular to the other directions, such that an orthogonal coordinate system is generally defined. As would be understood, cabinet 310 may include a frame 312 and one or more outer panels covering various portions of frame 312. As will be described in greater detail below, various components of dehumidifier appliance 300 may be housed therein. In particular, one more portions of a refrigeration system (e.g., refrigeration loop) are mounted within cabinet 310.

[0052] Along with housing various components, cabinet 310 defines an airflow passage between an air inlet 316 and an air outlet 318 spaced apart from the air inlet 316. In some embodiments, cabinet 310 defines air inlet 316 at a front grill that extends over a front face of cabinet 310. In additional or alternative embodiments, cabinet 310 defines air outlet 318 at a top grill (e.g., positioned at a top end of cabinet 310 or otherwise above air inlet 316). Thus, relative to the direction of airflow through cabinet 310, air outlet 318 may be defined downstream from air inlet 316 and thereabove. During use, ambient air may flow into air inlet 316 and through cabinet 310 (e.g., via natural convection or forced airflow motivated by an internal fan). Within cabinet 310, water vapor or moisture may be removed from the air (i.e., the air within cabinet 310 may be dehumidified). From the cabinet 310, such dehumidified air may be expelled (e.g., upward) through air outlet 318 and returned to the ambient environment.

[0053] In some embodiments, a water tank 320 defining a reservoir is mounted (e.g., removably mounted) to cabinet 310 to receive at least a portion of the water condensation. For instance, water tank 320 may be slidably mounted to cabinet 310 below an evaporator 324.

[0054] Turning now to FIGS. 7 through 9, various views are provided of dehumidifier appliance 300 wherein various portions (e.g., outer casing or panels of cabinet 310) have been removed for clarity.

[0055] As shown, a refrigeration loop having a discrete evaporator 324 and condenser 326 (FIG. 9) may be included with dehumidifier appliance 300. Specifically, evaporator 324 may be disposed along the airflow path within cabinet 310. Relative to the flow of air, evaporator 324 may thus be mounted downstream from air inlet 316. In some embodiments, condenser 326 is further disposed along the airflow path within cabinet 310. For instance, relative to the flow of air, condenser 326 may be mounted between evaporator 324 and air outlet 318 (i.e., downstream from evaporator 324 and upstream from air outlet 318).

[0056] The refrigeration loop may further include a compressor 332 and an expansion device 334 mounted within cabinet 310 (e.g., below evaporator 324 or otherwise apart therefrom). As illustrated, compressor 332 and expansion device 334 may be in fluid communication with condenser 326 and evaporator 324 to flow refrigerant therethrough, as is generally understood. More particularly, the refrigeration loop may include various lines for flowing refrigerant between the various components thereof, thus providing the fluid communication between such components. Refrigerant may thus flow through such lines from evaporator 324 to compressor 332, from compressor 332 to condenser 326, from condenser 326 to expansion device 334, and from expansion device 334 to evaporator 324. The refrigerant may generally undergo phase changes associated with a refrigeration cycle as it flows to and through these various components, as is generally understood. One example of a suitable refrigerant for use in the refrigeration loop is 1,1,1,2-Tetrafluoroethane, also known as R-134A, although it should be understood that the present disclosure is not limited to such example and rather that any suitable refrigerant may be used.

[0057] In some embodiments, compressor 332 is a variable speed compressor 332. In this regard, compressor 332 may be operated at various speeds depending on the dehumidification needs of the room (e.g., the room in which the dehumidifier appliance 300 is disposed or a portion thereof such as a zone within a larger room) and the demand from the refrigeration loop. For example, compressor 332 may be configured to operate at any speed between a minimum speed to a maximum rated speed. In some embodiments, use of variable speed compressor 332 enables efficient operation of the refrigeration loop (and thus dehumidifier appliance 300), minimizes unnecessary noise when compressor 332 does not need to operate at full speed, and ensures a comfortable environment within the corresponding room. During a dehumidification routine, moisture within the air may thus be condensed at the evaporator 324 without excessively reducing the temperature thereof.

[0058] As shown, expansion device 334 may be disposed within the cabinet 310 in fluid communication between the evaporator 324 and the condenser 326 relative to the flow of refrigerant. In some embodiments, expansion device 334 is an electronic expansion valve that generally enables controlled expansion of refrigerant. More specifically, the expansion device 334 may be an electronic expansion valve configured to precisely control the expansion of the refrigerant to maintain, for example, a desired temperature differential of the refrigerant across the evaporator 324. In other words, electronic expansion valve 334 selectively throttles the flow of refrigerant based on the reaction of the temperature differential across evaporator 324 or the amount of superheat temperature differential, thereby ensuring that the refrigerant is in the gaseous state entering compressor 332. In alternative embodiments, expansion device 334 may be a capillary tube or another suitable expansion device configured for use in a thermodynamic cycle.

[0059] In optional embodiments, a blower fan 338 may be mounted within cabinet 310 and directed at evaporator 324 to urge or motivate the flow of air across evaporator 324. For instance, blower fan 338 may be positioned downstream of evaporator 324 relative to the airflow path through cabinet 310, as shown, to pull air through evaporator 324. Alternatively, blower fan 338 may be positioned upstream of evaporator 324 along the airflow path, and may operate to push air through evaporator 324.

[0060] The operation of dehumidifier appliance 300, including compressor 332, blower fan 338, expansion device 334, or other components of the refrigeration loop may be controlled by a processing device, such as a controller 344. Controller 344 may be operably coupled (via for example a suitable wired or wireless connection) to such components of the dehumidifier appliance 300. By way of example, the controller 344 may include a memory (e.g., non-transitive storage media) and one or more processing devices such as microprocessors, CPUs or the like, such as general or special purpose microprocessors operable to execute programming instructions or micro-control code associated with operation of dehumidifier appliance 300. The memory may represent random access memory such as DRAM, or read only memory such as ROM or FLASH. In one embodiment, the processor executes programming instructions stored in memory. The memory may be a separate component from the processor or may be included onboard within the processor.

[0061] In some embodiments, dehumidifier appliance 300 includes a control panel 340 and one or more user inputs 342, which may be included in control panel 340 (see, e.g., FIG. 6). The user inputs 342 may be operably coupled to the controller 344. A user of the dehumidifier appliance 300 may interact with the user inputs 342 to operate the dehumidifier appliance 300, and user commands may be transmitted (e.g., as command signals) between the user inputs 342 and controller 344 to facilitate operation of the dehumidifier appliance 300 based on such user commands. In particular, a unit may select a humidity input or relative amount of dehumidification at control panel 340. A display (not shown) may additionally be provided in the control panel 340 and may be operably coupled to the controller 344, for example, a display may be or may include a touchscreen or other text-readable display screen, or alternatively simply a light that can be activated and deactivated as required to provide an indication of, for example, an event or setting for the dehumidifier appliance 300.

[0062] As noted above, water condensation collects on or at evaporator 324 during use. As shown, a collection tray 346 is disposed below the evaporator 324 to receive at least a portion of such water. An elevated rim may extend above a bottom wall such that water can gather within collection tray 346. Collection tray 346 is thus generally open along the vertical direction V to receive water as it falls. A tray outlet (not pictured) may be defined through the bottom wall and thus permit water to flow therefrom (e.g., to a separate line or portion of cabinet 310) such as to the water tank 320.

[0063] Turning now to FIG. 10, a general schematic is provided of a laundry appliance 1002, which may be, e.g., the washing machine appliance 10 or the dryer appliance 11 described above (or both), a dehumidifier appliance 300, and communication features thereof. FIG. 10 schematically illustrates a laundry appliance 1002, which may be, for example, one of the laundry appliances 10 or 11 of FIGS. 1 through 3, among other possible example laundry appliances, which communicates wirelessly with a remote user interface device 1000. For example, as illustrated in FIG. 10, the laundry appliance 1002 may include an antenna 90 by which the laundry appliance 1002 communicates with, e.g., sends and receives signals to and from, the remote user interface device 1000. The laundry appliance 1002 may communicate with the remote user interface device 1000 over a direct wireless communication link or over an indirect wireless communication link, such as via a remote server, a network, or cloud 1100. The remote user interface device 1000 may be a laptop computer, smartphone, tablet, personal computer, wearable device, smart home system, and / or various other suitable devices.

[0064] The antenna 90 may be provided in or on a wireless communication module of the laundry appliance 1002. The wireless communication module may be integrated with the controller 210 (see, e.g.,. FIG. 1) of the laundry appliance 1002 or may be separate from and communicatively coupled to the controller 210. Thus, the controller 210 may be in wireless communication with the cloud 1100 and the remote user interface device 1000, e.g., may send and receive signals to and from the cloud 1100 and / or remote user interface device 1000 over the air, via the antenna 90, and may operate the laundry appliance 1002 in accordance with data conveyed via such signals. Similarly, the controller 344 of the dehumidifier appliance 300 may also be in wireless communication with at least the cloud 1100.

[0065] The laundry appliance 1002 may be in communication with the remote user interface device 1000 device through various possible communication connections and interfaces. The laundry appliance 1002 and the remote user interface device 1000 may be matched in wireless communication, e.g., connected to the same wireless network. The laundry appliance 1002 may communicate with the remote user interface device 1000 via short-range radio such as BLUETOOTH® or any other suitable wireless network having a layer protocol architecture. As used herein, “short-range” may include ranges less than about ten meters and up to about one hundred meters. For example, the wireless network may be adapted for short-wavelength ultra-high frequency (UHF) communications in a band between 2.4 GHz and 2.485 GHz (e.g., according to the IEEE 802.15.1 standard). In particular, BLUETOOTH® Low Energy, e.g., BLUETOOTH® Version 4.0 or higher, may advantageously provide short-range wireless communication between the appliance 10 and the remote user interface device 1000. For example, BLUETOOTH® Low Energy may advantageously minimize the power consumed by the exemplary methods and devices described herein due to the low power networking protocol of BLUETOOTH® Low Energy.

[0066] The remote user interface device 1000 is “remote” at least in that it is spaced apart from and not physically connected to the laundry appliance 1002, e.g., the remote user interface device 1000 is a separate, stand-alone device from the laundry appliance 1002 which communicates with the laundry appliance 1002 wirelessly. Any suitable device separate from the laundry appliance 1002 that is configured to provide and / or receive communications, information, data, or commands from a user may serve as the remote user interface device 1000, such as a smartphone (e.g., as illustrated in FIG. 10), smart watch, personal computer, smart home system, or other similar device. For example, the remote user interface device 1000 may be a smartphone operable to store and run applications, also known as “apps,” and some or all of the method steps disclosed herein may be performed by a smartphone app.

[0067] The remote user interface device 1000 may include a memory for storing and retrieving programming instructions. Thus, the remote user interface device 1000 may provide a remote user interface which may be an additional user interface to the user interface panel 100 of laundry appliance 1002 and / or control panel 340 of dehumidifier appliance 300. For example, the remote user interface device 1000 may be a smartphone operable to store and run applications, also known as “apps,” and the remote user interface may be provided as a smartphone app.

[0068] As mentioned above, the laundry appliance 1002 and the dehumidifier appliance 300 may also be configured to communicate wirelessly with cloud 1100, e.g., in the same or similar manner as described above with reference to the laundry appliance 1002 and the remote user interface device 1000. The cloud 1100 is depicted schematically in FIG. 10 and explanation thereof is provided herein by way of example only and without limitation. More generally, the laundry appliance 1002 and the dehumidifier appliance 300 may be in wireless communication with one or more remote computing devices, such as a remote database, a remote server, etc., in various network configurations and / or distributed computing environments, such as the fog or edge, as well as or instead of the cloud. For example, the cloud 1100 may be or may include a remote database, e.g., a cloud-based data storage system. For example, the laundry appliance 1002 and dehumidifier appliance 300 may communicate with such remote database (and / or other remote computing device(s) as mentioned) over the Internet, which the laundry appliance 1002 and dehumidifier appliance 300 may access via WI-FI®, such as from a WI-FI® access point.

[0069] FIG. 11 illustrates an exemplary floor plan 500 of a facility, such as a laundromat, comprising one or more rooms, e.g., a single room as illustrated in FIG. 5, where the single room includes multiple laundry appliances 10, 11, and multiple dehumidifier appliance 300 located therein. The facility represented by the floor plan 500 may be, e.g., a laundry room in a dormitory or apartment complex, or any other facility in which multiple commercial laundry appliances may be located.

[0070] As illustrated for example in FIG. 5, the laundry facility, e.g., laundromat may have several zones defined therein, and each zone may be served by a single dehumidifier appliance 300 therein. For example, a first zone 502, a second zone 504, a third zone 506, and a fourth zone 508 are illustrated in FIG. 11. For example, each dehumidifier appliance 300 may be configured, e.g., sized, to dehumidify a predefined volume (e.g., cubic feet) of air, and the zones, e.g., zones 502, 504, 506, and 508, may generally correspond to the predefined volume of air that each dehumidifier appliance 300 is configured to handle. In various embodiments, a single zone may be defined, e.g., coextensive with the room itself, or two or three zones may be defined, or any other suitable number of zones, e.g., more than four zones. Additionally, the zones may vary in size, e.g., multiples zones of distinct sizes may be defined in a room, or the zones may be generally congruent, e.g., as illustrated in FIG. 11. The dehumidifier appliance 300 in each zone may be positioned proximate to a plurality of laundry appliances 10, 11 in order to reduce the humidity of the ambient environment around each laundry appliance 10, 11. For example, the dehumidifier appliance 300 in each zone may be positioned and configured to remove excess moisture from the air which may be emitted from the laundry appliances, such as moisture released when a door or doors of one or more of the laundry appliances is opened. In particular, the laundry appliances 10, 11 in each zone may be linked to the respective dehumidifier appliance 300, e.g., by an owner of the laundromat using management software, to coordinate the operations of the laundry appliances 10, 11 and the respective dehumidifier appliance 300. For example, such management software may be loaded in a device such as the remote user interface device 1000 described above in reference to FIG. 10 and / or other similar devices, and may be used to control the operations of one or more laundry appliances 10,11 and / or dehumidifier appliances 300, such as to perform some or all aspects of the exemplary methods described below.

[0071] Embodiments of the present disclosure also include methods of operating a laundry appliance and a dehumidifier appliance, such as the exemplary method 600 illustrated in FIG. 12. As mentioned above, exemplary methods according to the present subject matter may be wholly or partially computer-implemented, such as implemented by a controller, e.g., controller 210 and / or 344, of one or more appliances and / or implemented by one or more remote computing devices, e.g., in the cloud, fog, and / or edge.

[0072] As illustrated in FIG. 12, the method 600 may include (610) commissioning the laundry appliance in a remote computing device, and commissioning the laundry appliance includes linking the laundry appliance to the dehumidifier appliance. For example, commissioning the laundry appliance may be or may include an initial setup of the laundry appliance, such as connecting the laundry appliance to a WI-FI® network for the first time and / or adding the laundry appliance to a user account, e.g., in the cloud, in a remote database or other similar remote device for user account information storage and retrieval. In some embodiments, the laundry appliance may be one of a plurality or group of laundry appliances, e.g., a group of laundry appliances such as washing machine appliances 10 described above, dryer appliances 11 described above, among other possible exemplary laundry appliances and combinations of laundry appliances (e.g., washers and dryers together in the same group). For example, the laundry appliance which is commissioned at (610) may be a first laundry appliance of the plurality of laundry appliances. Also in embodiments where a plurality of laundry appliances are provided, more than dehumidifier appliance, e.g., a plurality of dehumidifier appliances, may be provided, such that the dehumidifier appliance with which the first laundry appliance is linked at (610) may be a first dehumidifier appliance of the plurality of dehumidifier appliances.

[0073] Method 600 may further include (620) performing an operation cycle, e.g., a laundry cycle, with the laundry appliance. The operation cycle may include treating a load of articles within the laundry appliance. For example, liquid water and / or liquid additives (e.g., “wash fluid” as described above) may be used to treat the load of articles in the laundry appliance, e.g., where the laundry appliance is a washing machine appliance, and at least a portion of such wash fluid may remain in the tub of the washing machine appliance and / or absorbed in the articles. Thus, opening a door of the laundry appliance may expose the tub, and the relatively high (as compared to the ambient conditions around the washing machine appliance) humidity therein to the remainder of the room. Furthermore, some of the liquid absorbed into the articles may be released into the atmosphere when removing the articles from the washing machine after the laundry operation. As another example, e.g., where the laundry appliance is a dryer appliance, treatment of the articles may be or may include removal of moisture absorbed therein, e.g., whereby air within the dryer appliance receives moisture that is extracted from the articles, thereby increasing the humidity within the dryer appliance above that of the ambient environment around the dryer appliance. Thus, opening a door of the laundry appliance may expose the drum, and humid air therein, to the remainder of the room. Accordingly, in these examples, humidity in the room may increase after the laundry operation, such as when a door of the laundry appliance is opened, such that it may be desirable to activate a dehumidifier appliance when the door is opened.

[0074] As illustrated at (630) in FIG. 12, method 600 may include detecting, by the remote computing device, an end of the second laundry cycle. For example, detecting the end of the laundry cycle may include sending a signal from the laundry appliance to the remote computing device. The signal may be, e.g., representative of a door opening, such as the laundry appliance may detect that the door was opened after performing a laundry operation and may then transmit a signal (from or by the controller 210 of the laundry appliance) to the remote computing device which includes information representing or corresponding to the door opening.

[0075] In response to detecting the end of the laundry cycle, the remote computing device may activate the dehumidifier appliance, e.g., as indicated at (640) in FIG. 12. For example, upon receiving the signal indicated the end of the laundry cycle, such as indicating the door opening, the remote computing device may determine, e.g., look up, that the dehumidifier appliance is linked to the laundry appliance and then transmit a signal to the dehumidifier appliance which causes the dehumidifier appliance to activate.

[0076] Method 600 may further include ending the dehumidification cycle and deactivating the dehumidifier appliance based on reaching a desired humidity level, e.g., as indicated at (650) in FIG. 12. The dehumidifier appliance may then remain idle, e.g., deactivated, until the next call for dehumidification from the remote computing device in response to a detected end of an operation cycle of a laundry appliance (e.g., the same laundry appliance or another laundry appliance in the same laundromat or other room, or another laundry appliance in the same zone within a room). Accordingly, the desired humidity level may be achieved without constantly running the dehumidifier appliance, and thus the cost and energy consumption from operating the dehumidifier appliance may be reduced, as well as the useful service life of the dehumidifier appliance may be increased.

[0077] As mentioned above, the exemplary methods described herein may be used with more than one laundry appliance and more than one dehumidifier appliance. For example, embodiments of the present disclosure include methods of operating a plurality of laundry appliances and a plurality of dehumidifier appliances, as well as methods of operating a plurality of laundry appliances and a dehumidifier appliance, e.g., a single dehumidifier appliance linked with multiple laundry appliances.

[0078] For example, some embodiments may include commissioning a first laundry appliance and a second laundry appliance of the plurality of laundry appliances in a remote computing device. In such embodiments, each laundry appliance may be linked in the remote computing device to a dehumidifier appliance during commissioning. For example, commissioning the first laundry appliance may include linking the first laundry appliance to a first dehumidifier appliance of the plurality of dehumidifier appliances, and commissioning the second laundry appliance comprises linking the second laundry appliance to the first dehumidifier appliance of the plurality of dehumidifier appliances. Such embodiments may also include commissioning a third laundry appliance of the plurality of laundry appliances in the remote computing device, and commissioning the third laundry appliance may include linking the third laundry appliance to a second dehumidifier appliance of the plurality of dehumidifier appliances.

[0079] Such embodiments may further include performing a first laundry cycle with the first laundry appliance and detecting, by the remote computing device, an end of the first laundry cycle. In response to detecting the end of the first laundry cycle, the remote computing device may activate the first dehumidifier appliance to perform a first dehumidification cycle. Such methods may also include ending the first dehumidification cycle and deactivating the first dehumidifier appliance based on reaching a desired humidity level. Further, such methods may include performing a second laundry cycle with the second laundry appliance and detecting, by the remote computing device, an end of the second laundry cycle. In response to detecting the end of the second laundry cycle, the remote computing device may activate the first dehumidifier appliance to perform a second dehumidification cycle. The second dehumidification cycle may be ended, and the first dehumidifier appliance deactivated, based on reaching the desired humidity level. Exemplary methods may further include performing a third laundry cycle with the third laundry appliance and detecting, by the remote computing device, an end of the third laundry cycle. In response to detecting the end of the third laundry cycle, the remote computing device may activate the second dehumidifier appliance to perform a third dehumidification cycle. For example, such embodiments may further include ending the third dehumidification cycle and deactivating the second dehumidifier appliance based on reaching the desired humidity level.

[0080] For example, detecting the end of a laundry cycle, e.g., the first laundry cycle, second laundry cycle, etc., may include sending a signal from the respective laundry appliance to the remote computing device, and activating a dehumidifier appliance to perform a dehumidification cycle may include sending a signal from the remote computing device to the respective dehumidifier appliance (e.g., to which the laundry appliance that performed the cycle is linked) in response to the signal from the respective laundry appliance. In some embodiments, the signal from the laundry appliance may be or may include a signal which indicates a door opening of the respective laundry appliance.

[0081] As mentioned, the dehumidifier appliance may be inactive for a period of time, thereby reducing energy consumption and increasing the service life of the dehumidifier appliance. For example, in some embodiments, the second laundry cycle may be performed after ending the first dehumidification cycle, and the third laundry cycle may be performed after ending the second dehumidification cycle, e.g., the dehumidifier appliance (or appliances) may be inactive between laundry cycles.

[0082] Some embodiments may include a delay time, e.g., which may further reduce the running time of the dehumidifiers. For example, some exemplary methods may include waiting for a delay time after detecting the end of the first laundry cycle and before activating the first dehumidifier appliance to perform the first dehumidification cycle, waiting for the delay time after detecting the end of the second laundry cycle and before activating the first dehumidifier appliance to perform the second dehumidification cycle, and waiting for the delay time after detecting the end of the third laundry cycle and before activating the second dehumidifier appliance to perform the third dehumidification cycle. The delay time may be, for example, between about five seconds and about two minutes, such as about ten seconds, such as about thirty seconds, such as about one minute.

[0083] The skilled artisan will recognize the interchangeability of various features from different embodiments. Similarly, the various method steps and features described, as well as other known equivalents for each such methods and feature, can be mixed and matched by one of ordinary skill in this art to construct additional systems and techniques in accordance with principles of this disclosure. Of course, it is to be understood that not necessarily all such objects or advantages described above may be achieved in accordance with any particular embodiment. Thus, for example, those skilled in the art will recognize that the systems and techniques described herein may be embodied or carried out in a manner that achieves or optimizes one advantage or group of advantages as taught herein without necessarily achieving other objects or advantages as may be taught or suggested herein.

[0084] It should be understood that the foregoing method steps, e.g., of method 600, may be computer-implemented, such as implemented at least in part by a remote computing device, e.g., in a distributed computing environment such as the cloud, fog, and / or edge, as mentioned above. Such embodiments may also include one or more steps performed by a remote user interface device which is in communication with the remote computing device, where the remote user interface device and the remote computing device are both remote from the laundry appliances, e.g., as described above with respect to FIG. 10, and are remote from each other.

[0085] This written description uses examples to disclose the invention, including the best mode, and also to enable any person skilled in the art to practice the invention, including making and using any devices or systems and performing any incorporated methods. The patentable scope of the invention is defined by the claims, and may include other examples that occur to those skilled in the art. Such other examples are intended to be within the scope of the claims if they include structural elements that do not differ from the literal language of the claims, or if they include equivalent structural elements with insubstantial differences from the literal languages of the claims.

Examples

Embodiment Construction

[0024]Reference now will be made in detail to embodiments of the invention, one or more examples of which are illustrated in the drawings. Each example is provided by way of explanation of the invention, not limitation of the invention. In fact, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations can be made in the present invention without departing from the scope or spirit of the invention. For instance, features illustrated or described as part of one embodiment can be used with another embodiment to yield a still further embodiment. Thus, it is intended that the present invention covers such modifications and variations as come within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents.

[0025]As used herein, terms of approximation, such as “generally,”“approximately,” or “about” include values within ten percent greater or less than the stated value. When used in the context of an angle or direction, such terms include within ten degrees g...

Claims

1. A method of operating a plurality of laundry appliances and a plurality of dehumidifier appliances, the method comprising:commissioning a first laundry appliance of the plurality of laundry appliances in a remote computing device, wherein commissioning the first laundry appliance comprises linking the first laundry appliance to a first dehumidifier appliance of the plurality of dehumidifier appliances;commissioning a second laundry appliance of the plurality of laundry appliances in the remote computing device, wherein commissioning the second laundry appliance comprises linking the second laundry appliance to the first dehumidifier appliance of the plurality of dehumidifier appliances;commissioning a third laundry appliance of the plurality of laundry appliances in the remote computing device, wherein commissioning the third laundry appliance comprises linking the third laundry appliance to a second dehumidifier appliance of the plurality of dehumidifier appliances;performing a first laundry cycle with the first laundry appliance;detecting, by the remote computing device, an end of the first laundry cycle;activating, by the remote device, the first dehumidifier appliance to perform a first dehumidification cycle in response to detecting the end of the first laundry cycle;ending the first dehumidification cycle and deactivating the first dehumidifier appliance based on reaching a desired humidity level;performing a second laundry cycle with the second laundry appliance;detecting, by the remote computing device, an end of the second laundry cycle;activating, by the remote device, the first dehumidifier appliance to perform a second dehumidification cycle in response to detecting the end of the second laundry cycle;ending the second dehumidification cycle and deactivating the first dehumidifier appliance based on reaching the desired humidity level;performing a third laundry cycle with the third laundry appliance;detecting, by the remote computing device, an end of the third laundry cycle;activating, by the remote device, the second dehumidifier appliance to perform a third dehumidification cycle in response to detecting the end of the third laundry cycle; andending the third dehumidification cycle and deactivating the second dehumidifier appliance based on reaching the desired humidity level.

2. The method of claim 1, wherein detecting the end of the first laundry cycle comprises sending a signal from the first laundry appliance to the remote computing device, wherein activating the first dehumidifier appliance to perform the first dehumidification cycle comprises sending a signal from the remote computing device to the first dehumidifier appliance in response to the signal from the first laundry appliance, wherein detecting the end of the second laundry cycle comprises sending a signal from the second laundry appliance to the remote computing device, wherein activating the first dehumidifier appliance to perform the second dehumidification cycle comprises sending a signal from the remote computing device to the first dehumidifier appliance in response to the signal from the second laundry appliance, wherein detecting the end of the third laundry cycle comprises sending a signal from the third laundry appliance to the remote computing device, and wherein activating the second dehumidifier appliance to perform the third dehumidification cycle comprises sending a signal from the remote computing device to the second dehumidifier appliance in response to the signal from the third laundry appliance.

3. The method of claim 2, wherein the signal from the first laundry appliance indicates a door opening of the first laundry appliance, wherein the signal from the second laundry appliance indicates a door opening of the second laundry appliance, and wherein the signal from the third laundry appliance indicates a door opening of the third laundry appliance.

4. The method of claim 1, wherein the second laundry cycle is performed after ending the first dehumidification cycle, and wherein the third laundry cycle is performed after ending the second dehumidification cycle.

5. The method of claim 1, further comprising waiting for a delay time after detecting the end of the first laundry cycle and before activating the first dehumidifier appliance to perform the first dehumidification cycle, waiting for the delay time after detecting the end of the second laundry cycle and before activating the first dehumidifier appliance to perform the second dehumidification cycle, and waiting for the delay time after detecting the end of the third laundry cycle and before activating the second dehumidifier appliance to perform the third dehumidification cycle.

6. The method of claim 1, wherein the plurality of laundry appliances and the plurality of dehumidifier appliances are located in a single room.

7. A method of operating a plurality of laundry appliances and a dehumidifier appliance, the method comprising:commissioning a first laundry appliance of the plurality of laundry appliances in a remote computing device, wherein commissioning the first laundry appliance comprises linking the first laundry appliance to the dehumidifier appliance;commissioning a second laundry appliance of the plurality of laundry appliances in the remote computing device, wherein commissioning the second laundry appliance comprises linking the second laundry appliance to the dehumidifier appliance;performing a first laundry cycle with the first laundry appliance;detecting, by the remote computing device, an end of the first laundry cycle;activating, by the remote device, the dehumidifier appliance to perform a first dehumidification cycle in response to detecting the end of the first laundry cycle;ending the first dehumidification cycle and deactivating the dehumidifier appliance based on reaching a desired humidity level;performing a second laundry cycle with the second laundry appliance;detecting, by the remote computing device, an end of the second laundry cycle;activating, by the remote device, the dehumidifier appliance to perform a second dehumidification cycle in response to detecting the end of the second laundry cycle; andending the second dehumidification cycle and deactivating the dehumidifier appliance based on reaching the desired humidity level.

8. The method of claim 7, wherein detecting the end of the first laundry cycle comprises sending a signal from the first laundry appliance to the remote computing device, wherein activating the dehumidifier appliance to perform the first dehumidification cycle comprises sending a signal from the remote computing device to the dehumidifier appliance in response to the signal from the first laundry appliance, wherein detecting the end of the second laundry cycle comprises sending a signal from the second laundry appliance to the remote computing device, and wherein activating the dehumidifier appliance to perform the second dehumidification cycle comprises sending a signal from the remote computing device to the dehumidifier appliance in response to the signal from the second laundry appliance.

9. The method of claim 7, wherein the second laundry cycle is performed after ending the first dehumidification cycle.

10. The method of claim 7, further comprising waiting for a delay time after detecting the end of the first laundry cycle and before activating the dehumidifier appliance to perform the first dehumidification cycle, and waiting for the delay time after detecting the end of the second laundry cycle and before activating the dehumidifier appliance to perform the second dehumidification cycle.

11. A method of operating a laundry appliance and a dehumidifier appliance, the method comprising:performing an operation cycle of the laundry appliance, whereby a load of articles are treated in the laundry appliance;activating the dehumidifier appliance after the operation cycle of the laundry appliance; anddeactivating the dehumidifier appliance after a desired humidity level is reached.

12. The method of claim 11, further comprising detecting an end of the operation cycle of the laundry appliance with a remote computing device in communication with the laundry appliance and the dehumidifier, wherein the dehumidifier appliance is activated after the operation cycle of the laundry appliance by the remote computing device.

13. The method of claim 12, wherein detecting the end of the operation cycle of the laundry appliance with the remote computing device comprises detecting a door opening of the laundry appliance.

14. The method of claim 13, further comprising waiting for a delay time after detecting the door opening of the laundry appliance and before activating the dehumidifier appliance.

15. The method of claim 11, further comprising, prior to performing the operation cycle of the laundry appliance, commissioning the laundry appliance with a remote computing device.

16. The method of claim 15, wherein commissioning the laundry appliance with the remote computing device comprises linking the laundry appliance to the dehumidifier appliance.

17. The method of claim 11, wherein the laundry appliance is one of a plurality of laundry appliances.

18. The method of claim 17, wherein each laundry appliance of the plurality of laundry appliances is connected to a remote computing device, the dehumidifier appliance is connected to the remote computing device, and each laundry appliance of the plurality of laundry appliances is linked to the dehumidifier appliance in the remote computing device.

19. The method of claim 17, wherein the plurality of laundry appliance and the dehumidifier appliance are located in a single room.

20. The method of claim 17, wherein the dehumidifier appliance is a first dehumidifier appliance, wherein a first set of laundry appliances from the plurality of laundry appliances are linked to the first dehumidifier appliance in a remote computing device, and wherein a second set of laundry appliances from the plurality of laundry appliances are linked to a second dehumidifier appliance in the remote computing device, wherein the plurality of laundry appliances, the first dehumidifier appliance and the second dehumidifier appliance are located in a single room.

Images