System and method for enhancing laundry drying

Abstract

A system and method for enhanced drying can include a drum system with an inner drum and outer drum, a plurality of defined air ports in a bottom portion of the inner drum, a seal system positioned between the drums having an engaged state that restricts airflow from bypassing the air ports and a disengaged state, and a fan system configured to direct airflow through the air ports and inner drum. The system and method can enable drying by flowing air longitudinally through items in the drum system. The seal system may also enable such drying within a dual -use washer and dryer system.

Description

REV0-M02SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR ENHANCED LAUNDRY DRYINGCROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This Application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No.63 / 681,716, filed on 09-AUG-2024, titled, “SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR ENHANCED LAUNDRY DRYING”, which is incorporated in its entirety by this reference.TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] This invention relates generally to the field of laundry devices, and more specifically to a new and useful system and method for enhanced laundry drying.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0003] Laundry drying technology has evolved significantly from traditional airdrying methods to modern electric dryers. Basic air-drying, while energy-efficient, is heavily dependent on weather conditions and time-consuming. Gas dryers, which use natural gas or propane, have limitations such as the need for proper ventilation to prevent gas buildup, potential safety hazards, and the initial higher installation costs. Electric tumble dryers may offer convenience but come with drawbacks such as high energy consumption and potential environmental impact. Electric tumble dryers can also be associated with longer drying times. Conventional drying systems are large, dedicated devices that typically rely on heating large air volumes and circulating heated air around items in a rotating drum, which can be inefficient.

[0004] Additionally, many existing drying systems are designed as standalone units that cannot perform washing functions, requiring separate washing and drying appliances. This creates space and cost constraints, particularly in compact living environments such as apartments, RVs, or other mobile applications where space and power availability are limited.REV0-M02

[0005] Thus, there is a need in the laundry devices field to create a new and useful system and method for enhanced laundry drying. This invention provides such a new and useful system and method.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0006] FIGURE 1 is a system variation for longitudinal air flow for facilitating drying.

[0007] FIGURE 2A is a schematic view of a system variation for drying using an inner drum and outer drum moving air upward from a bottom portion.

[0008] FIGURE 2B is a schematic view of a system variation for drying using an inner drum and outer drum moving air downward towards a bottom portion.

[0009] FIGURE 2C is a schematic view of a system variation with washing and drying functionality.

[0010] FIGURE 3A is a schematic view of a system implementation.

[0011] FIGURE 3B is a cross-sectional view of a system implementation.

[0012] FIGURE 3C is a detailed cross-sectional view showing detail of an active seal system in a disengaged state.

[0013] FIGURE 3D is a detailed cross-sectional view showing detail of an active seal system in an engaged state.

[0014] FIGURE 4 is a detailed cross-sectional view showing detail of a seal system that can actuate between an engaged and disengaged state.

[0015] FIGURE 5A is a detail schematic showing a seal system using a flexible structure with flaps that form a seal.

[0016] FIGURE 5B is a schematic of a seal system variation with flexible flaps in an engaged state.

[0017] FIGURE 5C is a schematic of a seal system variation with flexible flaps in a disengaged state.

[0018] FIGURES 6A-6B are schematic representations of different static seal system variations.

[0019] FIGURE 7 is a schematic representation of a seal system variation forming a seal at an upper portion of the drum system.REV0-M02

[0020] FIGURE 8 is a schematic representation of a static seal system that transitions between engaged and disengaged states based on rotational motion of a drum system.

[0021] FIGURES 9A-9B are schematic representations of a seal system variation using a bearing-based mechanism.

[0022] FIGURES 10A-10B are schematic representations of a seal system that use collected water to facilitate forming a seal.

[0023] FIGURES 11A-11C are schematic representations of a seal system using an inner drum with wing structures to facilitate motion of the inner drum to engage or disengage a seal.

[0024] FIGURES 12A-12B is a schematic representation of an active seal system using a hydraulic activation mechanism.

[0025] FIGURES 13A-13B are schematic representations of a system variation with side channels to direct air system.

[0026] FIGURE 14 is a schematic representation of a drum system variation with angled side walls.

[0027] FIGURE 15 is a schematic representation of a twin walled drum system variation.

[0028] FIGURE 16 is a schematic representation of a flexible single walled drum variation.

[0029] FIGURES 17A-17B are schematic representations of a seal system using an electromagnetic activation variation.

[0030] FIGURE 18 is a schematic representation of a seal system using an iris-based mechanism variation.

[0031] FIGURES 19-21 are flowchart representations of method variations.

[0032] FIGURE 22 is an exemplary system architecture that may be used in implementing the system and / or method.REV0-M02DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS

[0033] The following description of the embodiments of the invention is not intended to limit the invention to these embodiments but rather to enable a person skilled in the art to make and use this invention.1. Overview

[0034] A system and method for enhanced drying as described herein functions to enable drying of items contained within a drum system. The systems and methods preferably use a longitudinal drying approach, where air is directed along a longitudinal axis of a drum and flows through items contained within the drum.

[0035] The systems and methods may utilize a dynamic or fixed seal within a drying drum. A seal system may be able to establish a substantial fluidic seal between an inner and outer drum. When sealed, air may be directed through a bottom sub-chamber defined between an inner and outer drum and then longitudinally through air ports in a bottom portion of the inner drum. The seal system may be engaged to restrict air from bypassing the air ports (e.g., preventing air from flowing through a defined cavity on the sides of inner and outer drums), thereby enforcing or promoting air flow longitudinally through the inner drum. The seal may be dynamic so that the seal can disengage or otherwise allow for movement between the inner and outer drum. For example, the systems and methods described herein may allow for the drum to spin. The systems and methods may also allow for the same drum to be used for a wash mode where water fills the drums. In some variations, the system and method may use a fixed seal wherein the seal inherently promotes the drying of laundry in the drum.

[0036] The drying systems and methods described herein may be implemented for a variety of use cases and applications. Herein, the systems and methods are primarily described as they apply to laundry drying, but they could alternatively be used for other drying applications such as food dehydration, agricultural product drying, industrial material drying, textile processing, dish / utensil drying and other drying applications. In one variation, the systems and methods are used as part of a dedicated drying device. InREV0-M02 some variations, the systems and methods may be used as a drying solution within an integrated washing and drying device, which may be capable of washing and drying items like laundry.

[0037] The systems and methods may in some variations be implemented in compact, mobile drying devices suitable for apartments, recreational vehicles, boats, or other space-constrained environments where traditional large appliances are not feasible. The compact design may operate on standard electrical outlets without requiring specialized high-power connections or dedicated ventilation systems. Alternatively, the systems and methods maybe scaled for use in larger, stationary devices for commercial or high-capacity residential applications.

[0038] The drying systems and methods may be implemented in dedicated drying devices or integrated into hybrid dual-use washer and dryer devices. When used in hybrid configurations, the same drum system can transition between washing and drying modes, with the seal system enabling efficient operation in both modes. While the drying system is described with a washing system designed for laundry, the dryer system may alternatively be used with a variety of other washing systems and solutions, including commercial washing systems, industrial cleaning processes, or specialized treatment systems.

[0039] The seal systems used in the systems and methods described herein may use a variety of sealing mechanisms, including but not limited to passive flexible seals that respond to airflow direction to actively controlled pneumatic, electromechanical, and hydraulic systems. This flexibility allows the drying system to be adapted for different operational requirements, power constraints, and performance specifications.

[0040] The systems and methods may be particularly useful in drum systems that may be rotational drums capable of spinning or rotating about an axis, in particular a defined longitudinal axis. In some variations, the longitudinal axis may be a vertical axis as defined by the direction of gravity. However, the systems and methods may also be used with drying systems that have drums oriented horizontally relative to gravity or oriented at any suitable angle. The systems and methods may also be used with various drum configurations, including cylindrical and conical shapes, and can be implemented with different air port arrangements and sealing mechanisms. Here, cylindrical or conical shapes are used as general descriptors, but any suitable shape may alternativelyREV0-M02 be used. In general the drums will be symmetrical about the longitudinal axis for balanced rotation. This design flexibility enables optimization for specific applications, space constraints, or performance requirements.

[0041] Herein, the systems and methods are described as using longitudinal drying by directing air along the longitudinal axis from one end of a drum through a defined inner chamber of the drum to the other end of the drum. This may include directing air up from a bottom end of an inner drum up through a defined inner chamber of the drum or alternatively pushing or pulling air from an open end of the inner drum (e.g., where laundry maybe deposited) through the air ports on a bottom portion of the drum. This may also include directing air downward from an upper portion to the opposite bottom end of the drum. This may use a fan and optional heater integrated with an air inlet feeding air into the upper portion. This may alternatively use a fan and optional heater integrated with an air outlet pulling air downward toward and outlet.

[0042] Longitudinal here generally refers to a defined axis aligned with a central axis of a drum which may also be the axis of rotation for a drum capable of spinning / rotating. The longitudinal axis can generally extend between upper and lower ends of the drum system, defining a primary direction of airflow during drying operations. Accordingly, the systems and methods described may be oriented off-axis from gravity or even perpendicular to the direction of gravity (e.g., a horizontal “front loading” dryer devices). As used herein, references to “up”, “upper”, “top”, and similar directional terms refer to the end of the drum system where items may be entered or removed, typically where a lid or opening is positioned along a longitudinal axis. As also used herein, references to 'down,' 'lower,' 'bottom,' and similar terms refer to the end of the drum system opposite the upper end, typically corresponding to a bottom surface of the drum at the opposite end of the longitudinal axis. These directional references are relative to the drum system orientation and are independent of gravitational orientation.

[0043] The system and method’s longitudinal drying approach may use higher airflow (which may reduce a need for higher temperature air) and direct the air directly through items in a drum. This can result in significantly faster drying times and / or reduce energy consumption. In some cases, the system and method may be used without the additional component (and energy consumption) of a heating element. AREV0-M02 seal system may force all or at least a substantial portion of air introduced into the drum to go through the clothes. This may result in faster dry times, energy savings, and also enables to dry without using any heat.

[0044] The system and method may provide a number of potential benefits. The system and method are not limited to always providing such benefits and are presented only as exemplary representations for how the system and method maybe put to use. The list of benefits is not intended to be exhaustive, and other benefits may additionally or alternatively exist.

[0045] As one potential benefit, the system and method may provide significantly faster drying times and improved drying efficiency compared to traditional drying approaches. Since all or most of the air introduced into the system may be directed through the clothes by the seal system, rather than allowing air to bypass the items being dried, the system may achieve more effective moisture removal per unit of airflow. In traditional dryers, only some of the air and heat goes through the clothes, with significant portions bypassing the laundry items, making for a slower, more ineffective, and more power intensive process. The seal system ensures that substantially all airflow passes directly through the items being dried, enhancing the utilization of airflow energy and reducing the time required to achieve desired dryness levels.

[0046] As another potential benefit, the systems and methods may be used within small / mobile drying device. The drying systems and methods may be implemented in smaller format drying devices. For laundry and other drying applications, this can open up the use of drying in new use cases, where traditional drying technologies are not feasible because of space or energy source limitations.

[0047] As another potential benefit, the system and method may be more energy efficient by using a unique enhanced drying approach that more efficiently directs air through the items being dried. The airflow design can reduce the heating requirements or eliminate the need for heating of the air. In some cases, the system and method may not include or depend on a heating element.

[0048] As a related benefit, the improved energy efficiency and reduced heating requirements may enable the drying systems and methods to operate on lower electrical power, such as standard household outlets without requiring specialized high-power connections. This lower power requirement, in addition to reducing energy usage,REV0-M02 further opens up the use of drying devices in new use cases such as enabling laundry dryers designed for use in apartments, recreational vehicles, boats, or temporary living situations where high-power electrical connections are not available.

[0049] As another potential benefit, the system and method may enable a more compact drying device. The system and method may integrate the drying system into the structure of a laundry device.

[0050] In some variations, the drying system and method may be integrated into an integrated laundry device that offers functionality of both a washing machine and a drying machine. This dual washing and drying design may similarly be used for combined washing and drying devices for other items.

[0051] As another potential benefit, the systems and methods may provide operational flexibility through various seal mechanisms that can accommodate different operational modes, including spinning during drying cycles and transitioning between washing and drying functions in dual-use laundry applications.2. System

[0052] As shown in FIGURE 1, a system for drying may include a drum system 100 with a set of defined air ports 130 at the bottom surface of the drum system 100, and a fan system 140 integrated within the system to direct air through the defined air ports 130 into the drum system 100. The drum system 100 will generally include a defined inner chamber that will be used to hold items for drying like laundry. The system may include a heating element 142.

[0053] In some variations, the system may make use of a seal such that air can be directed through an inner drum of the drum system. As shown in FIGURES 2A-2C, such a system variation for a drying system may include: an inner drum 110 rotatable about a longitudinal axis and defining an inner chamber 112 for containing items to be dried; an outer drum 120 containing the inner drum no with a bottom sub-chamber 122 defined between the inner drum 110 and outer drum 120; a plurality of defined air ports 130 in a bottom portion of the inner drum no; a seal system 150 positioned between the inner drum 110 and the outer drum 120, the seal system 150 having an engaged state that restricts airflow from bypassing the air ports and a disengaged state; and a fan systemREV0-M02140 configured to direct airflow through the air ports 130 and through the inner drum along the longitudinal axis. The fan system 140 may include an air inlet and an air exhaust that are fluidically coupled to a fan to induce air flow between the air inlet and exhaust and through the air ports in the bottom sub-chamber and the inner drum.

[0054] In some variations, the seal system may be passively activated and / or deactivated through operation of the laundry device. In other variations, the seal system may be actively controlled to activate and / or deactivate. Accordingly, some variations may include a control system 170 communicatively coupled to the seal system to actively control and engage a sealed mode or unsealed mode of the seal system. In other variations, the seal may be fixed without any physical change, wherein the seal may serve to appropriately direct air through its fixed static design.

[0055] One system variation may be implemented wherein the inner drum is a laundry drum and the system includes a lid at one end of the inner drum through which laundry may be deposited into the inner chamber. The lid may be positioned opposite the bottom portion of the inner drum (e.g., above the inner drum). The lid or alternatively a top sealing mechanism may be opened for adding or removing laundry and closed when washing and / or drying the laundry.

[0056] In a laundry-specific implementation, the system may include: an inner laundry drum 110 rotatable about a longitudinal axis and defining an inner chamber 112 for containing laundry items to be dried; an outer drum 120 containing the inner laundry drum 110 with a bottom sub-chamber 122 defined between the inner laundry drum 110 and outer drum 120; a plurality of defined air ports 130 in a bottom portion of the inner laundry drum 110; a lid 160 positioned above the inner laundry drum 110 through which laundry may be deposited into the inner chamber 112; a seal system 150 positioned between the inner laundry drum 110 and the outer drum 120, the seal system 150 having an engaged state that restricts airflow from bypassing the air ports 130 and a disengaged state; and a fan system 140 configured to direct airflow through the air ports 130 and through laundry contained in the inner chamber 112 along the longitudinal axis. The inner and outer drum design of the system may be particularly useful in allowing for washing and drying of laundry within the same device.

[0057] A system variation with washing and drying functionality may further include a washing system 180 that in a washing mode dispenses water (or washing fluid) intoREV0-M02 the inner chamber to wash items. In some variations, the drying system and method may be integrated into a dual -function device that offers functionality of both a washing machine and a drying machine within the same drum system.

[0058] Accordingly, in hybrid washing system variations, the washing system may include a fluid dispensing system 182 configured to dispense water into the inner chamber and the inner drum may include a plurality of side air ports 132 extending through side walls of the inner drum to facilitate water removal from the inner drum to a space between the outer drum and inner drum. The side air ports 132 may be used to allow water to enter and / or exit the inner drum during wash cycles, spin-dry cycles, and / or other stages of operation of a laundry device.

[0059] The seal system 150 may operate in dual modes, wherein the seal system is in the disengaged state during washing operations to permit water flow between the inner drum and outer drum, and in the engaged state during drying operations to restrict airflow from bypassing the air ports. This dual-mode operation enables the same drum system to efficiently transition between washing and drying functions.

[0060] The drum system 100 functions as a container in which items may be dried. For a laundry device, the drum system 100 includes a defined inner cavity or “inner chamber” that can hold laundry. In other types of drying and / or washing devices, the drum system 100 similarly can include a defined inner cavity adapted to hold or contain items for drying and / or washing.

[0061] The drum system 100 can include an inner drum no and an outer drum 120. The inner drum 110 and the outer drum 120 can be cylinders or other suitable drum shapes. The inner drum 110 can be rotatable about a longitudinal axis that runs along the length of the drum system 100. The inner drum no can be coaxially aligned with the outer drum 120 and can be sized smaller so as to sit inside of a defined inner cavity of the outer drum 120.

[0062] The inner drum no and the outer drum 120 can each generally include a bottom surface. In a variation of a cylindrical drum system 100, the bottom surface can refer to the circular bottom surface. Similarly, the inner drum no may have a cylindrical shape with a longitudinal axis defining a central axis of rotation. In alternative variations, the inner drum 110 may have a conical shape with the longitudinal axis defining a central axis of rotation. Other shape profiles may also be used. In general, theREV0-M02 shape and form of the drum system 100 will be symmetrical about the longitudinal axis. The inner and outer drum design may be particularly useful in allowing for washing and drying of laundry within the same device.

[0063] The defined space between the inner drum 110 and the outer drum 120 may be characterized as a defined inter-drum chamber. The seal system 150 may be used to form a dynamic barrier to segment the inter-drum chamber into a bottom sub-chamber 122 and a side sub-chamber 124.

[0064] Herein, a defined bottom sub-chamber 122 is used to refer to and characterize the region between at least the bottoms of the inner drum 110 and outer drum 120. This bottom sub-chamber 122 will generally be a region that facilitates airflow communication with the inner drum 110 through the bottom air ports 130, with the seal system 150 when engaged restricting airflow between the bottom sub-chamber 122 and side sub-chamber 124 to promote efficient airflow through the bottom air ports 130. For example, air maybe flowed into the bottom sub-chamber 122 and then, with the seal system 150 engaged to block flow to the side sub-chamber 124, directed upward through the bottom air ports 130 into the inner drum 110. Alternatively, air maybe pulled downward from the inner drum 110 through the bottom air ports 130 and into the bottom sub-chamber 122, with the seal system 150 preventing air from escaping through the side sub-chamber 124.

[0065] Herein, a defined side sub-chamber is used to refer to and characterize the defined cavity between the inner drum no and outer drum 120 along the side walls of the inner drum 110 and outer drum 120. In some variations, the side sub-chamber 124 will be positioned along the sides rising upwards along the length of the drum system 100. Side air ports 132 maybe included above the seal system 150 and establish channels for fluidic flow between the inner drum 110 and the side sub-chamber 124.

[0066] The inner drum 110 can include defined air ports 130 at least along a bottom surface. The air ports 130 may function as air ingress and / or egress openings that allow air used for drying to pass longitudinally through the drum system 100 and through the items contained in the drum system 100. The air ports 130 extend through a bottom wall of the inner drum no. The air ports 130 may more generally be referred to as fluid ports since they can accommodate both air and / or fluid flow depending on the operational mode.REV0-M02

[0067] The inner drum 110 may additionally include defined side air ports 132 alongside walls of the inner drum 110. The side air ports 132 function primarily as fluid inlets and / or outlets for water during washing operations and may be used to allow water to enter and / or exit the inner drum 110 during wash cycles, spin-dry cycles, and / or other stages of operation of a laundry device. The side air ports 132 will generally provide a fluid pathway from the inner drum 110 to a space between the inner drum 110 and outer drum 120 referred to herein as the side sub-chambers 124. The side air ports 132 may alternatively be referred to as side fluid ports given their primary function in fluid management.

[0068] The drum system 100 may include or otherwise engage or connect with a motor, impeller, or other system used to drive spinning of the drum system 100. Herein, the system will be described as using a motor though other electromechanical mechanisms may be used to drive movement of the inner drum 110, specifically rotational motion of at least the inner drum 110.

[0069] In laundry applications, the inner drum 110 may be flexibly mounted or suspended within the outer drum 120 to accommodate movement during operation. This flexible integration may allow the inner drum 110 to have some degree of movement or "float" relative to the outer drum 120 to manage vibrations and load imbalances that commonly occur during washing and spin cycles. The flexible mounting may include suspension systems, dampeners, and / or other mechanisms that permit controlled movement of the inner drum no while maintaining the structural relationship necessary for the seal system 150 to function effectively. Such flexible mounting arrangements may function to reduce noise, vibration, and mechanical stress during high-speed rotation.

[0070] In some variations, the flexible suspension system may be implemented in a segmented approach where different portions of the inter-drum chamber have different degrees of flexibility. For example, the side sub-chamber 124 region may have flexible mounting that permits the inner drum 110 to move or vibrate to manage load imbalances, while the region where the seal system 150 is positioned may have a more rigid relationship between the inner drum no and outer drum 120 to ensure proper seal engagement. This segmented flexibility approach allows vibration isolation in non- critical areas while maintaining precise positioning where the seal system 150 requiresREV0-M02 consistent contact or clearance between the drums. The suspension system may include dampeners, springs, or flexible mounts positioned strategically to provide movement where beneficial while constraining movement where seal integrity is important. In some variations, the bodies of the inner drum no and / or outer drum 120 may include flexible and / or rigid portions to account for the segmented approach.

[0071] The drum system 100 or the laundry device in general can include a lid 160 or top seal that can be opened for adding or removing laundry and closed when washing and / or drying the laundry.

[0072] In some alternative variations, the system may include an alternative drum system to establish similar drying and / or washing capabilities.

[0073] In one variation of an alternative drum system, the drum system 100 may include a drum with an angled side wall and no side holes as shown in FIGURE 14. This can be used with a combined washer and dryer system. The dryer system may in this variation not need a seal system but can similarly direct air for directing air longitudinally through the laundry. When used as part of a washing and drying system, water may exit the drum via a top lip due to centrifugal forces. As one washing benefit, this drum system design (e.g., without an outer drum) may mean there is a higher wash level with no water outside drum during the wash cycle as compared to traditional drum designs. As a benefit for drying, all air passes through the full height of the drum with no air escaping through side air ports in the walls of the drum.

[0074] Additionally, in some variations, the drum may be angled to facilitate guiding water out of the drum when drying. The angle maybe fixed based on how the device is designed to statically hold the drum. The angle may alternatively be dynamic with an actuating system change the angle of the drum during the drying phase or during other phases.

[0075] In another variation shown in FIGURE 15, the drum system 100 may use a twin walled drum system. In a twin walled drum system, there are two drum walls with complementary vent holes along the side wall. The two drum walls maybe moved to align the vent holes or to have the vent holes blocked. In this way, the twin drum system may in one mode be a drum with side holes. This may be used during wash and spin cycles. The side holes may permit water to fill or exit the drum. The twin drum system in a closed mode may have the walls move relative to each other (e.g., moving vertically,REV0-M02 rotationally, or both) such that the holes in the twin walled drum system are partially or completely closed. Closing the holes may serve as an alternative or additional seal system to prevent air passing through the side holes.

[0076] In another variation shown in FIGURE 16, the drum system 100 may include a flexible single walled drum. A flexible drum may include a pattern of side wall vent holes. The flexible drum could be stretched or otherwise deformed to close the side wall vent holes during washing and dry cycles, which could provide water volume and airflow efficiency respectively. The holes could remain open as needed for spin and drain cycles where it may be desirable to have holes for water to move in and out through the side wall vent holes.

[0077] As yet another alternative variation, the system may include a solid tubular insert. The insert could be removable. The insert could be added to close drum holes when the device is to be used in a way where side wall vent holes are undesirable.

[0078] The seal system 150 functions to selectively establish a seal or barrier restricting fluidic flow from the bottom sub-chamber 122 region to the side subchamber 124 region and thereby promote fluid flow into the inner drum 110 through the bottom air ports 130 of the inner drum 110. This seal or barrier is preferably used during a drying portion or in other stages when air is flowed through the longitudinally through the drum system 100.

[0079] The seal system 150 can be positioned circumferentially between the inner drum no and outer drum 120, typically extending around the inner drum 110 to create a barrier between the bottom sub-chamber 122 and side sub-chamber 124. In preferred variations, the seal system 150 may form a complete seal extending around the full circumference of the inner drum 110 to provide maximum flow control. However, the seal system 150 may alternatively extend around only a portion of the circumference while still providing effective flow restriction. For example, a seal system 150 covering approximately 75% or more of the circumference may create sufficient pressure differential to promote airflow through the bottom air ports 130 rather than allowing bypass flow through the side sub-chamber 124. The seal system 150 may be positioned at various heights along the longitudinal axis of the drums, though in some variations, the seal system 150 maybe located in a lower portion of the drum system 100, typically located to separate the bottom sub-chamber 122 from the side sub-chamber 124.REV0-M02However, in some variations, the seal system 150 maybe positioned at an upper portion of the drum system 100. In yet another variation, there maybe multiple instances of a seal system 150 For example, one example, may have a first seal system 150 at an upper portion of the drum system 100 and a second seal system 150 at a lower portion of the drum system 100. For example, this may be used to prevent air flow through the side air ports during the drying process.

[0080] In some variations, the seal system 150 maybe positioned at different locations along the longitudinal axis and radial extent of the drum system 100. For example, the seal system 150 may be positioned primarily along the side wall portion of the drum system 100, extending radially between the cylindrical walls of the inner drum 110 and outer drum 120. In another variation, the seal system 150 maybe positioned primarily along a bottom surface of the drum system 100, extending axially between the bottom surfaces of the inner drum 110 and outer drum 120. In a further variation, the seal system 150 may be positioned at an edge or a transition region where the side wall meets and transitions to the bottom wall surface of the inner drum 110 and / or outer drum 120. The specific positioning of the seal system 150 maybe selected based on factors such as manufacturing constraints, seal performance requirements, access for maintenance, and compatibility with drum rotation and washing operations.

[0081] The seal system 150 in some variations may be dynamic so that the seal when engaged establishes a seal in the intermediary region between the outer drum 120 and the inner drum 110 but also allowing for spinning of the inner drum no and / or filling the intermediary region with liquid for washing. Without the seal system 150, air attempted to be directed through the drum system 100 will follow a path of least resistance and will flow through the side sub-chambers 124. Without the seal system 150, this may limit or even eliminate the air that flows longitudinally through the inner drum no. Accordingly, the seal system 150 can enable and enhance drying capabilities of the device by appropriately directing air flow.

[0082] In some variations, the drum system 100 maybe configured such that only portions of the inner drum no and / or outer drum 120 rotate, while other portions remain stationary. This segmented rotation approach may provide advantages for seal system 150 integration and performance. For example, the cylindrical side walls of the inner drum 110 may rotate to provide tumbling action for laundry items, while theREV0-M02 bottom surface remains stationary to provide a stable platform for the seal system 150. Alternatively, the bottom surface may rotate independently of the side walls, or both may rotate together while a circumferential ring portion remains stationary. In such variations, an agitator or other form may extend up from the bottom surface of the inner drum to facilitate movement of items in the inner drum 110.

[0083] In another variation, a stationary ring section of the inner drum 110 and / or outer drum 120 maybe positioned at the seal interface location, allowing the seal system 150 to engage with non-rotating surfaces for improved seal integrity and reduced wear. This stationary ring may be supported by bearings or other mechanisms that allow the adjacent rotating portions to move freely while maintaining the stationary seal interface. The segmented rotation design may also enable different rotational speeds for different portions of the drum system 100, optimizing washing action, drying airflow, and seal performance independently. Such configurations may simplify seal design by eliminating the need for dynamic sealing against rotating surfaces, instead allowing static sealing against fixed components while maintaining the desired drum functionality.

[0084] The seal system 150 may include different design variations. For example, the seal system 150 maybe a passive system, actively controlled system, and / or fixed system, which may each provide different approaches to controlling airflow between the bottom sub-chamber 122 and side sub-chamber 124.

[0085] A fixed seal system promotes directional control of airflow through a static, non-moving sealing design that does not actively engage or disengage. Fixed seal systems may include static barriers with specific geometries, permanent structural features, or bearing systems that inherently direct airflow through the desired path without requiring active control or movement between engaged and disengaged states.

[0086] A passive seal system may allow sealing without any direct manipulation of a mechanism. As discussed in some of the exemplary variations below, a passive seal may dynamically engage or disengage as a result of normal operation of the drying device. For example, direction of fluidic flow may prevent air flow in one direction but allow for liquid flow in the opposite direction. In other examples, spinning motion of the drum system 100 may engage or disengage a mechanical seal mechanism. In other variations,REV0-M02 water used during a wash cycle may naturally form an air seal as a result of the structural design of the system.

[0087] An active seal system may seal or unseal as a result of some controlled input. An active seal system may make use of actuators, electromagnetic mechanisms, electromechanical mechanisms, pneumatic or hydraulic mechanisms, or other controlled manipulators to transition between engaged and disengaged states based on operational requirements.

[0088] The seal system 150 in an engaged state may include sealing contact between the drums that directs airflow through the air ports 130. The seal system 150 in some variations may include at least one sealing member that establishes a seal between a defined bottom sub-chamber 122 and side sub-chamber 124 between the outer drum 120 and the inner drum 110. In some variations, this maybe a seal forming a ring or otherwise surrounding the inner drum 110. The seal maybe a complete seal, preventing any air from directly flowing from the bottom sub-chamber 122 to the side sub-chamber 124. In some alternative variations, the seal may be a partial seal that limits the air flow from the bottom sub-chamber 122 to the side sub-chamber 124. For example, some variations may have some air leak through the seal.

[0089] The seal system 150 can preferably transition from an engaged sealed state and a disengaged unsealed state. In some variations, the seal system 150 may include intermediary degrees of the amount of seal such that air flow may be incrementally controlled. Herein, the systems and methods are primarily described in their engaged sealed state and disengaged unsealed state, but the systems and methods may alternatively be implemented using intermediary / partial amounts of sealing.

[0090] In some variations, the seal system 150 maybe actively controlled. Active seal systems may enable controlled engagement and disengagement of sealing through external inputs such as electrical, pneumatic, or hydraulic control signals. A sealing member or structure may be dynamically moved between engaged and disengaged positions or states. Active seal systems may utilize a hydraulic, pneumatic, electromagnetic, and / or electromechanical actuators, which may be used to move the seal to fully engage the walls of the inner drum no and outer drum 120 to establish a seal. As shown in examples of FIGURES 3a-gD, a seal may be moved to seal or unseal. A seal could be moved directly across space between the outer drum 120 and the innerREV0-M02 drum no, maybe angled, or alternatively changed to alter how fluid can flow between and within the drum system 100. The seal structure could be made of hard or soft materials.

[0091] Active seal systems may include several main variations based on their actuation method. Pneumatic seal systems use air or fluid pressure to inflate expandable sealing members. Electromechanical seal systems use motors, solenoids, or other electrically driven actuators to move sealing elements. Hydraulic seal systems use pressurized fluid to actuate movable sealing components. Additional active seal variations may include iris mechanisms with interleaved plates, electromagnetic seals using magnetic attraction, and linkage-based mechanical systems. Each variation provides different advantages in terms of response time, sealing force, power consumption, and integration complexity.

[0092] The seal system 150 may include a pneumatic seal including an inflatable member positioned between the inner drum 110 and the outer drum 120, and a pneumatic control system connected to the inflatable member to selectively inflate and deflate the inflatable member. In one variation, an inflatable seal may be used to dynamically engage and / or disengage a seal between the bottom sub-chamber 122 and the side sub-chamber 124 as shown in FIGURES 12A and 12B. The inflatable seal may include an inflatable member that can be filled with air or liquid to expand to seal off the bottom sub-chamber 122 from the side sub-chamber 124. The inflatable seal can fully or substantially surround the inner drum no. In one variation, the inflatable seal maybe integrated into the outer drum 120. The inflatable member may comprise deformable material that expands radially when pressurized to contact both the inner drum 110 and the outer drum 120.

[0093] The inflatable member may operate through different mechanical principles depending on the design variation. In one variation, the inflatable member may comprise an expandable elastic material that stretches and grows in size when pressurized, creating sealing contact through material expansion. The elastic material returns to its original smaller size when depressurized, disengaging the seal. The inflatable member may take various forms such as an inflatable tub, bladder, or tube that can be filled with air or liquid to achieve the desired expansion and sealing contact.REV0-M02

[0094] Inanother variation, the inflatable member may use pressure to change structural form between different stable states rather than simply expanding. For example, an inflatable member may have a structural geometry that in a nonpressurized state naturally deforms to one stable configuration, such as a collapsed or inverted position forming either an engaged or disengaged state. When pressurized, the structural form deforms to another stable configuration, such as an extended or everted position, forming the complementary state, disengaged or engaged respectively. This bistable design may provide more defined and reliable seal engagement compared to purely elastic expansion, similar to how a flexible ring structure might naturally collapse inward but pop outward when pressurized.

[0095] In one variation, a linkage mechanism or other mechanical system may be used to dynamically engage and / or disengage a seal. In such an active mechanically actuated sealing system variation, a sealing member may be moved to seal a gap between the inner drum 110 and the outer drum 120. Conversely, the sealing member may be moved to unseal a gap between the inner drum 110 and the outer drum 120. As shown in example Figure 12, a linkage system may linearly activate a sealing member outward to physically engage with a surface of the inner drum 110 and / or outer drum 120 and prevent air flow from the bottom sub-chamber 122 to the side sub-chamber 124. These mechanical actuation systems may use various control mechanisms to move sealing elements between engaged and disengaged positions, including electromechanical, hydraulic, electromagnetic, and / or manual actuation methods.

[0096] The seal system 150 may comprise an electromechanical actuator connected to a movable sealing element, the actuator moving the sealing element between a first position corresponding to the disengaged state and a second position corresponding to the engaged state. Electromechanical seal systems provide precise control over seal positioning and engagement force through electrical actuation such as motors, solenoids, or servo mechanisms.

[0097] The seal system 150 may comprise a hydraulic actuator connected to a movable sealing element, the hydraulic actuator using fluid pressure to move the sealing element between the engaged state and the disengaged state. Hydraulic seal systems can provide high actuation forces and precise control through pressurized fluid systems.REV0-M02

[0098] In one variation, hydraulic seals may operate similar to pneumatic seals by using pressurized fluid to expand flexible sealing members. The hydraulic system may include hydraulic bladders, bellows, or expandable chambers that inflate when pressurized with hydraulic fluid to create sealing contact between the inner drum 110 and outer drum 120. Unlike pneumatic systems that typically use air, hydraulic expansion systems may use incompressible fluids such as hydraulic oil or water, which can provide more consistent expansion forces and faster response times. The hydraulic expansion seal may be controlled by a hydraulic pump and valve system that can rapidly pressurize or depressurize the expandable sealing member.

[0099] In another variation, hydraulic seals may use mechanical actuation through hydraulic cylinders, pistons, or linear actuators to move rigid sealing elements. The hydraulic actuator may use pressurized fluid to control the position and engagement force of a movable sealing element, such as a sealing ring, plate, or wedge that physically moves to create or break contact between the drums. Hydraulic mechanical actuation can provide very high forces for secure sealing engagement and precise positioning control. The hydraulic system may include hydraulic cylinders positioned around the circumference of the drum system 100 to provide uniform sealing pressure.

[0100] In a further variation, hydraulic seal systems may combine both expansion and mechanical actuation approaches. For example, a hydraulic system may use mechanical actuation to position a sealing element into approximate contact, then use hydraulic expansion of a flexible component to achieve final sealing contact and pressure. This hybrid approach may provide the benefits of precise mechanical positioning combined with conformable sealing through expansion. The hydraulic system may also provide active pressure control to maintain optimal sealing force during operation, compensating for wear, thermal expansion, or mechanical tolerances.

[0101] The hydraulic seal system may include several key components for operation. The system may include hydraulic fluid lines or conduits that connect a hydraulic pump or pressure source to the hydraulic actuator positioned at the seal interface. The hydraulic lines may be flexible hoses or rigid tubing capable of withstanding the operating pressure of the hydraulic system. A hydraulic reservoir may store hydraulic fluid for the system, and hydraulic valves may control the direction and flow rate ofREV0-M02 pressurized fluid to the actuator. The hydraulic system may include pressure relief valves, filters, and pressure sensors to ensure safe and reliable operation.

[0102] In some variations, the hydraulic actuator may be an electromechanically controlled hydraulic actuator connected to a control system 170. The control system 170 may include electronic controllers, solenoid valves, and pressure sensors that enable automated control of seal engagement and disengagement. The electromechanically controlled hydraulic system may respond to control signals to precisely time seal actuation with washing and drying cycles. For example, the control system 170 may automatically engage the seal system 150 when transitioning to drying mode and disengage the seal when switching to washing mode. The hydraulic control system may also provide pressure feedback to maintain optimal sealing force and detect seal failure or wear conditions.

[0103] Electromagnetic seal systems function to use magnetic forces to actuate sealing elements. In an electromagnetic seal system variation, activation or deactivation of an electromagnet may engage or disengage a seal. As shown in the example of FIGURES 17A and 17B, a seal structure may include a copper coil wire along a distal end of a flexible seal sheet that encircles the region for sealing. When power is not applied, the seal structure is not electromagnetically active, so the seal is not formed as shown in FIGURE 17A. When power is applied, the copper coil establishes magnetic attraction between the distal end and the inner drum 110. This establishes a seal between the outer drum 120 and the inner drum no as shown in FIGURE 17B.

[0104] In some variations, the device may be manually controlled so that external force maybe used to engage or disengage an actively controlled seal. In this way, a drying device maybe manually switched between modes. Manual actuation may include lever systems, rotational mechanisms, threaded adjustment systems, or other useroperated controls that mechanically move sealing elements. Manual systems may provide advantages in terms of simplicity, reliability, and independence from electrical or fluid power systems. Manual controls may be integrated with safety interlocks to prevent operation during unsafe conditions.

[0105] As exemplary variation, the seal system 150 may include an iris mechanism that surrounds the inner drum 110. The iris maybe a set of interleaved plates that can collectively form a seal. The plates can be interlinked through a mechanism such thatREV0-M02 they can open and close about a center. A motor, pulled wire, or other suitable mechanism may be used to open or close the iris thereby sealing or unsealing as shown in FIGURE 18. The iris mechanism demonstrates how multiple sealing elements can work together and maybe controlled by any of the actuation methods described above.

[0106] In some variations, the seal system 150 maybe a passive sealing mechanism that does not depend on any actively controlled mechanism.

[0107] In one variation, the seal system 150 maybe a passive seal system that comprises a flexible structure that flexibly deforms such that air flow upward from the bottom sub-chamber 122 to the side sub-chamber 124 applies a force to the flexible structure to engage a sealed mode. In such a variation, the seal system 150 includes a flexible sealing member extending from one of the inner drum 110 or outer drum 120 toward the other, the flexible sealing member having a configuration that permits fluid flow in a first direction while blocking fluid flow in an opposite direction. For example, air or liquid flow downward (e.g., in the opposing direction) from the side sub-chamber 124 to the bottom sub-chamber 122 may apply a force to the flexible structure to deform the flexible structure exposing a fluidic channel between the bottom sub-chamber 122 and the side sub-chamber 124.

[0108] In some variations, the flexible structure in its default static position may be deformed to form a seal when no air pressure is applied. Downward pressure or fluid trying to flow from the side sub-chamber 124 to the bottom sub-chamber 122, may deform the flexible structure to allow fluid to flow downward. In other variations, the flexible structure in its default static position may not establish sealing contact between the two drums, but upward pressure or air trying to flow from the bottom sub-chamber 122 to the side sub-chamber 124 will deform the flexible structure such that the flexible structure establishes sealing contact between the two drums, thereby preventing or limiting air flow upward through the side sub-chamber 124.

[0109] The flexible structure may be configured in a variety of ways. As shown in FIGURE 4, a flexible seal may extend downward at an approximately 45-degree angle. Activation of a fan 140 to move air for drying will force the flexible seal upward establishing a seal. A feathered seal with slits or extending fingers may provide better flexibility and sealing. The flexible sealing member may comprise a plurality of flexible flaps, each flap having a first end attached to one of the inner drum 110 or outer drumREV0-M02120 and a free end that contacts a sealing surface (e.g., a surface of the opposing drum) when fluid flows in the opposite direction.[ono] As shown in the example of FIGURE 5, the flexible structure can be a ring of flaps or flexible fingers. In this exemplary variation, the flexible structure extends from the outer drum 120 wall towards the inner drum 110 with a downward angle thereby establishing a flexible valve gating fluid flow to restrict upward flow and permit downward flow. The flexible flaps may be made of rubber, silicone, or other elastomeric materials that provide durability and consistent sealing performance. The angle and length of the flaps maybe optimized to provide reliable sealing under drying airflow as shown in FIGURE 5B while allowing easy water drainage during washing cycles as shown in FIGURE 5C. Other flexible structures may similarly be used to establish a seal.

[0111] The seal system 150 may comprise a static sealing member extending from the outer drum 120 and contacting the inner drum 110, the static sealing member including a low friction contact surface that permits rotation of the inner drum 110 while maintaining sealing contact. In another variation, the seal system 150 maybe a passive seal system that is a fixed static seal configured to permit rotational motion but prevent fluid flow between the bottom sub-chamber 122 and the side sub-chamber 124. The static seal can be a structure extending from one wall of a drum and engaging with an opposing wall of the other drum. The static seal may be configured to limit friction between it and the opposing wall such that there may be relative rotational motion between the two drums. The side edge of the static seal (e.g., at least the distal end) may be made of low friction material, include bearings or wheels, and / or have other design features to enable relative motion between the drums.

[0112] A fixed static seal may additionally include one or more one-way fluidic valves. Such fluidic valves may be patterned around a ring of the static seal. These oneway valves may allow water to flow from the side sub-chamber 124 to the bottom subchamber 122 during washing operations while preventing air from flowing in the opposite direction during drying operations.

[0113] As shown in FIGURES 6A-6B, some system variations may include a horizontal static seal or angled static seals. Furthermore, the system may include one or multiple static seals. Static seals may be positioned at various angles relative to the longitudinal axis, such as perpendicular (horizontal), angled at 30-60 degrees, or otherREV0-M02 orientations that optimize sealing performance while accommodating drum rotation. Multiple static seals may be positioned at different heights or angles to provide redundant sealing or to create multiple pressure zones within the inter-drum chamber.

[0114] Herein the seal system 150 is primarily described as being oriented towards the bottom portion of the drum system 100. However, some variations may establish the seal at some point along the length of the walls of the drums or even at the top. As shown in FIGURE 7, a static seal maybe used at the top portion of the drum system 100. This variation may include an inner drum 110 without side air ports 132 to prevent air leakage. Top-positioned seals maybe advantageous in configurations where gravity assists in sealing engagement or where access for maintenance is improved.

[0115] A seal system 150 positioned in an upper portion may also be used when the Fan system 140 is used to direct air in a downward direction, with air flowing from an upper portion, through the inner drum 110, and out bottom air ports 130.

[0116] The seal system 150 may comprise a hinged sealing member that pivots between the engaged state when the inner drum no is stationary and the disengaged state when the inner drum 110 rotates, the hinged sealing member being responsive to centrifugal forces generated by rotation of the inner drum 110. In another variation, the seal system 150 may be a passive system that leverages rotational motion of the inner drum 110 to alter the seal state. In such rotational passive seal systems, the seal system 150 may disengage a seal when the inner drum 110 is spinning. In one such variation, centrifugal force of spinning of inner drum no swings a hinged seal to an open position. As shown in FIGURE 8, the seal system 150 may comprise a hinged structure that defaults to a sealed state without rotational motion, and swings to an open / unsealed state during rotational motion. The hinged structure may be weighted or be mechanically connected to some component that is subject to moving when spun.

[0117] The hinged sealing member may include counterweights, springs, or other mechanical elements that control the rotational speed threshold at which the seal transitions between states. For example, the system maybe designed so that the seal remains engaged during slow rotation for gentle tumbling but disengages during highspeed spin cycles for washing operations.

[0118] The seal system 150 may comprise a plurality of bearings positioned circumferentially between the inner drum no and the outer drum 120, the bearingsREV0-M02 providing rolling contact between the inner drum no and outer drum 120 while blocking fluid flow between the bottom sub-chamber 122 and the side sub-chamber 124. In another variation, the seal system 150 may use bearings to establish a seal while allowing the inner drum 110 to spin. Bearings may be located around the entire circular space between the inner drum 110 and the outer drum 120 as shown in FIGURES 9A- 9B. The bearings could allow the inner drum no to smoothly spin with reduced friction. The bearings may be sealed bearings that prevent fluid flow while providing smooth rotational motion, or the bearings may be arranged in a pattern that creates sufficient flow restriction between chambers while maintaining low rotational friction.

[0119] In yet another variation, liquid from a wash cycle or liquid introduced by the user may be used to form a seal for air flow between the bottom sub-chamber 122 and the side sub-chamber 124. Accordingly, the seal system 150 may include complementary structures extending from the inner drum 110 and the outer drum 120 forming a serpentine fluid path, and a fluid collection region positioned within the serpentine fluid path. This variation may be used with an integrated system that is able to dispense water for a wash or rinse cycle. Water may be collected to establish an air seal. As shown in FIGURES 10A-10B, such a variation may include complementary structures with one extending from the outer drum 120 and one extending from the inner drum 110. One structure may form a trough, and the other structure may extend into the trough. In this way the complementary structures can form a serpentine defined cavity. Water or alternative liquid could fill the trough and thereby form a seal.

[0120] The serpentine fluid path may be designed with specific geometry to ensure reliable liquid retention and sealing performance. The fluid collection region may include reservoirs, channels, or recessed areas that maintain liquid levels sufficient for air sealing even during drum rotation. The liquid-based seal may automatically engage when water is present during washing operations and automatically disengage when water is drained, providing passive operation that synchronizes with washing and drying cycles.

[0121] In yet another variation, the seal system 150 may be implemented through a customized design of the drum system 100 such that the outer drum 120 and inner drum 110 engage in different modes. In particular, the inner drum 110 by default when not in motion may contact the outer drum 120 to establish a seal between the bottomREV0-M02 sub-chamber 122 and the side sub-chamber 124. For example, a sealing ring along the bottom of the inner drum 110 can engage with a bottom surface of the outer drum 120. Rotation of the drum system 100 may cause the inner drum 110 to lift up and thereby disengage the seal. As shown in the variation of FIGURES 11A-11C, the inner drum 110 may include wing structures around its outer wall that apply upward pressure induced by the wing structure when the inner drum no spins. When not spinning, the inner drum 110 rests on the seal structure as shown in FIGURE 11B. When spinning, the inner drum 110 may rise off the seal structure as shown in FIGURE 11C.

[0122] The wing structures or lifting mechanisms may be designed to provide controlled lift forces that reliably disengage the seal during rotation while ensuring proper sealing contact when stationary. The contact surfaces may include wear-resistant materials or replaceable wear plates to accommodate repeated engagement and disengagement cycles.

[0123] The fan 140 functions as a blower or active system to promote air flow. The airflow direction maybe directed or biased longitudinally through the drum system 100 to facilitate drying. The seal system 150 in some variations functions to facilitate efficiently directing air longitudinally through the drum system 100. However, in some variations, the system may not depend on a seal system and can use longitudinal drying directly as shown in FIGURE 1.

[0124] The fan 140 is preferably fluidically coupled to an air inlet for taking in air and an air exhaust where air maybe expelled. The air inlets and the air exhaust maybe integrated on the outside of the device such that air maybe pulled in and expelled back to an outside environment. In many systems there are defined air channels used to connect the inlet and exhaust vents to the fan 140 and to the bottom sub-chamber 122. However, the air may alternatively be circulated within the drying device.

[0125] In some variations, air may be directed downward through the drum system too from a top opening through the air ports 130. Accordingly, the fan system 140 may include an air inlet positioned above the inner drum 110 or from which air may be drawn to flow air into the inner drum no from an upper position. This downward airflow configuration may be advantageous for systems where the fan 140 is configured to push air in from the upper portion or to draw air downward by being positioned at the bottom.REV0-M02

[0126] In one variation, the fan 140 pulls air from an inlet and then pushes it downward into the inner drum 110. The air flows longitudinally down through items contained in the inner chamber 112 and exits through the bottom air ports 130 into the bottom sub-chamber 122 before being exhausted from the system.

[0127] In another variation, the fan 140 may be fluidically positioned after the inner drum no so that it draws air downward from the inner drum 110, out through the bottom air ports 130. In this configuration, the fan 140 creates suction that pulls air into the top of the inner drum 110, draws it down through the items being dried, and exhausts it through the bottom air ports 130 and bottom sub-chamber 122.

[0128] In one variation shown in FIGURES 13A and 13B, the fan 140 may push / pull air down one or more side channels into the bottom sub-chamber 122, then (because of the seal system 150) push the air up through the inner drum no. Accordingly, the fan system 140 may include an air inlet connected to the bottom sub-chamber 122 by air channels, the fan system Redrawing air through the air channels into the bottom subchamber 122 and forcing air upward through the air ports igointo the inner chamber 112. FIGURES 13A and 13B shows a configuration with multiple fans located at the top of the device such that air channels are used to direct air to the bottom sub-chamber 122. The use and configuration of air channels may depend on the design and desired functionality of the device.

[0129] In one variation of upward airflow, the fan 140 pushes air through the air channels into the bottom sub-chamber 122, creating pressure that forces air upward through the bottom air ports 130. The air flows longitudinally up through items contained in the inner chamber 112 and exits through the top opening of the inner drum no before being exhausted from the system.

[0130] In another variation, the fan 140 may be positioned to create suction at the top of the inner drum 110, drawing air up from the bottom sub-chamber 122 through the bottom air ports 130. This configuration pulls air upward through the items being dried and exhausts it from the top of the system. The seal system 150 ensures that air is drawn through the intended path rather than bypassing through the side sub-chamber 124.

[0131] The system may additionally include other components within the air pathway for facilitating the drying process. Such components may include but are not limited to a heating element 142, a lint trap, and sensors.REV0-M02

[0132] The heating element 142 functions to heat air moved through the drying device. The heating element 142 maybe positioned within the air channels, at the air inlet, or integrated with the fan system 140 to heat air before it enters the drum system 100. In some variations, the efficient airflow design of the system may reduce or eliminate the need for heating elements, allowing for energy-efficient drying using ambient temperature air.

[0133] The lint trap functions to trap debris and lint from the items being dried. The lint trap can be oriented within the air path after the air passes through the items and prior to exiting through the exhaust vents. The lint trap may be removable for cleaning and maintenance, and may include filters, screens, or other collection mechanisms positioned in the airflow path.

[0134] The sensors may function to measure various aspects of the drying process. The sensors could include temperature sensors, moisture sensors, humidity sensors, and / or pressure sensors for example. These may be used to control air flow, heating, and cycle state of the device. The sensors maybe positioned at various locations within the air pathway, drum system 100, or control system 170 to monitor system performance and optimize drying and / or washing cycles.

[0135] The system may additionally include other laundry device systems such as water dispensing systems, drain systems, soap / detergent dispensing systems, and / or other device sub-systems. These washing-related subsystems may enable the dualfunction capability of the drying system 100 to operate as an integrated washing and drying device.

[0136] The washing system 180 may include a fluid dispensing system 182 configured to dispense water into the inner chamber 112 for washing operations. The fluid dispensing system 182 may include water inlet connections, valves, flow control mechanisms, and distribution nozzles or ports that direct water into the inner drum 110. The water dispensing system may be capable of controlling water temperature, flow rate, and distribution pattern to optimize washing performance. Water may be dispensed from the top, sides, or bottom of the inner drum 110 depending on the washing cycle requirements.

[0137] The drain system functions to remove water from the drum system 100 during washing operations and between washing and drying cycles. The drain system mayREV0-M02 include drain pumps, drain valves, and drainage pathways that connect the bottom subchamber 122 and side sub-chamber 124 to external drainage. The side air ports 132 facilitate water removal from the inner drum no to the inter-drum chamber during spin cycles, where the drain system can then remove the water from the device. The drain system may include filtration to prevent debris from clogging drainage components.

[0138] The soap / detergent dispensing system provides controlled delivery of cleaning agents during washing cycles. This subsystem may include detergent reservoirs, dispensing mechanisms, and distribution systems that introduce soap, detergent, fabric softener, or other cleaning agents at appropriate times during the washing cycle. The dispensing system may be integrated with the water dispensing system 182 to mix cleaning agents with water before delivery to the inner chamber 112 or may provide separate injection points for different types of cleaning agents.

[0139] These washing system 180 components are designed to operate in coordination with the seal system 150 and drying components to enable seamless transitions between washing and drying modes. During washing operations, the seal system 150 remains in the disengaged state to allow water flow between chambers, while the drain and water dispensing systems manage fluid delivery and removal. The control system 170 coordinates the operation of all subsystems to ensure proper sequencing of washing and drying cycles.

[0140] Additional device sub-systems may include balancing systems to manage load distribution during spin cycles, vibration dampening systems to reduce noise and movement, user interface systems for cycle selection and monitoring, and safety systems including door locks, overflow protection, and emergency stop mechanisms. These subsystems work together to provide a complete and safe laundry processing device.

[0141] As mentioned, the system may include a control system 170 that manages the operation of the drying system and coordinates the various subsystems for optimal performance. The control system 170 may provide automated control and monitoring capabilities for both drying operations and, in dual-function devices, washing operations.

[0142] Depending on the type of seal system 150, the control system 170 may be communicatively coupled to the seal system 150 to actively control and engage a sealed mode or unsealed mode of the seal system 150. The control system 170 canREV0-M02 automatically transition the seal system 150 between engaged and disengaged states based on the operational mode of the device. For example, the control system 170 may engage the seal system 150 when switching to drying mode to restrict airflow from bypassing the air ports 130 and disengage the seal system 150 when switching to washing mode to permit water flow between the inner drum 110 and outer drum 120.

[0143] The control system 170 may receive input from various sensors positioned throughout the system to monitor operational parameters and adjust system performance accordingly. Temperature sensors, moisture sensors, humidity sensors, and pressure sensors may provide feedback to the control system 170 for optimizing drying cycles, controlling heating elements 142, and managing fan system 140 operation. The control system 170 may use this sensor data to automatically adjust cycle times, airflow rates, and temperature settings based on load characteristics and drying progress.

[0144] In dual-function devices, the control system 170 may coordinate the operation of the washing system 180, including the fluid dispensing system 182, drain systems, and soap / detergent dispensing systems. The control system 170 manages the sequencing of washing and drying cycles, ensuring proper timing of water delivery, drainage, seal engagement, and / or airflow activation. The control system 170 may also control motor operation for drum rotation at different speeds for washing, spin-drying, and drying operations.

[0145] The control system 170 may include user interface capabilities for cycle selection, operational monitoring, and system status display. Safety features integrated with the control system 170 may include door lock controls, overflow protection, emergency stops, and fault detection systems. The control system 170 may provide diagnostic capabilities to identify maintenance needs, component failures, or operational issues, and may include communication capabilities for remote monitoring or software updates.

[0146] The control system 170 maybe configured to manage distinct operational modes including a washing mode and a drying mode, with automated transition capabilities between these modes. In the washing mode, the control system 170 may be configured to maintain the seal system 150 in the disengaged state to permit fluid flow between the bottom sub-chamber 122 and side sub-chamber 124, enabling waterREV0-M02 circulation, drainage through the side air ports 132, and spin-cycle operations. The control system 170 may simultaneously activate the washing system 180 components including the fluid dispensing system 182 and soap / detergent dispensing systems during this mode.

[0147] In the drying mode, the control system 170 maybe configured to transition the seal system 150 to the engaged state to restrict airflow from bypassing the air ports 130, thereby directing airflowthrough the bottom air ports 130 and longitudinally through the inner chamber 112. The control system 170 may coordinate the engagement of the seal system 150 with activation of the fan system 140 and optional heating element 142 to initiate drying operations. The control system 170 maybe further configured to ensure complete drainage of water from the drum system 100 before transitioning to drying mode.

[0148] The control system 170 maybe configured with automated mode detection capabilities that determine the appropriate operational mode based on user input, cycle programming, or sensor feedback. The control system 170 may include pre-programmed sequences that automatically transition from washing mode to drying mode, including intermediate steps such as final spin cycles, complete drainage verification, and seal system 150 engagement confirmation before initiating airflow.

[0149] The control system 170 maybe configured to manage different operational states within each mode, such as varying drum rotation speeds for washing versus drying, different airflow patterns for different drying cycles, and coordinated timing of multiple subsystems. The control system 170 may include configuration parameters that define the specific operational characteristics for each mode, including seal engagement timing, fan activation sequences, temperature control settings, and safety interlocks that prevent improper mode transitions or unsafe operational combinations.3. Method

[0150] A method for drying items may include directing air longitudinally through a drum system to remove moisture from items contained within the drum. This drying approach may utilize airflow aligned with a longitudinal axis of a drum in a dryingREV0-M02 system such that air passes directly through items being dried, which may provide more efficient moisture removal compared to systems where air circulates around items.

[0151] As shown in FIGURE 19, a method for longitudinal drying may include: providing a drum system configured to contain items S110; and activating a drying process by directing air longitudinally through the drum system S130. The longitudinal airflow method may be implemented with air flowing in either direction along the longitudinal axis (e.g., either from top to bottom or from bottom to top through the drum).

[0152] The core drying method may incorporate use of a seal system to enhance the efficiency of longitudinal airflow by controlling air paths within the drum system and / or to enable longitudinal drying when used with a drying system with dual drums such as a hybrid washing and drying laundry device. The seal system may enable control over airflow direction by preventing air from taking the path of least resistance through side chambers, instead forcing air through the intended drying path.

[0153] As shown in FIGURE 20, a method for seal-based drying may include: providing a drum system configured to contain items S110; engaging a seal to direct airflow through the drum system S120; and activating a drying process by directing air longitudinally through the drum system S130. The seal system may transition between engaged and disengaged states to control airflow paths within the drum system.

[0154] As with the system, the method may be extended to enable dual washing and drying functionality within an integrated device. An integrated method combines washing and drying operations within the same drum system by utilizing the seal system's ability to transition between engaged and disengaged states. This comprehensive method enables a single device to perform both washing and drying functions by dynamically reconfiguring the airflow and fluid flow paths based on the operational mode.

[0155] As shown in FIGURE 21, a method for integrated washing and drying may include: providing a drum system configured to contain items S110; disengaging the seal S140; performing a washing process S150; engaging a seal to direct airflow through the drum system S120; and activating a drying process by directing air longitudinally through the drum system S130.REV0-M02

[0156] Block S110, which includes providing a drum system configured to contain items, functions to establish the structural foundation and containment system for the drying operations. The drum system serves as the primary vessel in which items to be dried are placed and through which controlled airflow is directed for moisture removal.

[0157] Block S110 may include providing a device such as the system or one of its variations herein described, but any suitable alternative system may alternatively be used. Providing such a device may include providing a device with a drum system, a sealing system, a washing system, a control system, and / or other components as described herein. The drum system may be implemented using various structural approaches while maintaining the fundamental capability to contain items and facilitate controlled airflow for drying operations.

[0158] Providing a drum system may include providing an inner drum rotatable about a longitudinal axis and defining an inner chamber for containing items to be dried, and an outer drum containing the inner drum. The drum system may be configured with a bottom sub-chamber defined between the inner drum and outer drum to facilitate controlled airflow distribution. The drum system may include a plurality of defined air ports positioned in a bottom portion of the inner drum to enable airflow communication between the bottom sub-chamber and the inner chamber.

[0159] In laundry applications, providing the drum system may include configuring the inner drum as a laundry drum with a lid positioned above the inner drum through which laundry items may be deposited into the inner chamber. The drum system may be configured to accommodate both washing and drying operations within the same structural framework, enabling dual-function capabilities.

[0160] The drum system may be provided with various geometric configurations including cylindrical shapes with the longitudinal axis defining a central axis of rotation, or conical shapes that facilitate different flow patterns and item movement characteristics. The drum system may include motor integration for rotational control, suspension systems for vibration management, and structural features that enable the integration of sealing systems and airflow control mechanisms.

[0161] Providing the drum system may also include establishing the spatial relationships between inner and outer drums that define inter-drum chamber regions for airflow and fluid management during operations.REV0-M02

[0162] Block S120, which includes engaging a seal to direct airflow through the drum system, functions to control airflow paths within the drum system and restrict airflow from bypassing designated air ports. The seal engagement establishes barriers that force or promote air to flow through intended drying paths rather than taking paths of least resistance through side chambers.

[0163] Engaging a seal may include actively controlling a seal system to transition between engaged and disengaged states based on operational requirements. However, in some variations when the system includes a passive seal system, the sealing may be inherent in the design of the system and / or result from activating the drying process. Engaging a seal may involve mechanical, pneumatic, hydraulic, electromagnetic, or other actuation methods depending on the seal system design.

[0164] Engaging a seal may comprise inflating a pneumatic seal positioned between an inner drum and an outer drum of the drum system. The pneumatic seal engagement may involve pressurizing an inflatable member with air or hydraulic fluid to create sealing contact between drum surfaces. The inflatable member may expand radially when pressurized to establish the seal and restrict airflow between chamber regions.

[0165] Engaging a seal may comprise electromagnetically actuating a sealing structure to engage and disengage sealing contact between drum components. Electromagnetic actuation may involve applying electrical power to create magnetic attraction and / or repulsive forces that move sealing elements into contact positions or removing power to allow sealing elements to retract from sealing positions.

[0166] Engaging a seal may comprise hydraulically actuating a seal using fluid pressure to control sealing engagement. Hydraulic actuation may involve using pressurized fluid to move sealing elements, expand flexible sealing members, or operate mechanical linkages that position sealing components between engaged and disengaged states.

[0167] Engaging a seal may comprise operating a passive seal system that automatically engages based on airflow direction through the drum system. Passive seal engagement may result from airflow forces, rotational motion, gravitational effects, dispensing of water to form a seal, and / or other operational conditions that cause sealing elements to move into sealing positions without external control inputs.REV0-M02[oi68] In some variations, engaging a seal may involve operating flexible sealing members that deform in response to airflow direction to create directional flow control. The method may include utilizing flexible flaps or membranes that bend or flex to restrict flow in one direction while permitting flow in the opposite direction, creating automatic sealing based on operational conditions.

[0169] Engaging a seal may involve positioning static sealing members that maintain continuous sealing contact while permitting drum rotation. The method may include utilizing low-friction sealing surfaces, bearings, or wheels that provide sealing while accommodating relative motion between drum components.

[0170] Engaging a seal may involve operating bearing systems that provide both sealing and rotational support functions. The method may include utilizing sealed bearings or bearing arrangements positioned circumferentially to block fluid flow while enabling smooth drum rotation.

[0171] Engaging a seal may involve forming liquid-based seals using water or other fluids collected in serpentine paths or trough structures. The method may include maintaining fluid levels in collection regions that create air seals through liquid barriers, with the liquid seal automatically engaging when fluid is present during washing operations.

[0172] Block S130, which includes activating a drying process by directing air longitudinally through the drum system, functions to remove moisture from items contained within the drum through controlled airflow. The drying process utilizes airflow aligned with the longitudinal axis of the drum to pass air directly through items being dried, providing efficient moisture removal.

[0173] Activating a drying process may be performed in coordination with block S120 such that airflow is directed appropriately through the drum system. The coordination ensures that seal engagement occurs prior to or simultaneously with airflow activation to establish proper flow paths. With some seal variations, airflow for drying may directionally generate a force to establish the seal, creating automatic seal engagement through the drying activation process itself.

[0174] However, in some variations where the drum system used does not depend on a seal, S130 maybe used independent of any such seal system.REV0-M02

[0175] Activating a drying process may include directing air through air ports in the drum system to achieve longitudinal airflow through items being dried. The air ports provide controlled entry and exit points for airflow, with a seal system optionally directing air through designated ports rather than allowing bypass flow through alternative paths. The longitudinal airflow may help enhance contact between moving air and items being dried.

[0176] Activating a drying process may include directing air downward through the drum system from a top opening through the air ports located in a lower portion of an inner drum. Downward airflow may be generated by positioning fans above the drum system or creating suction at the bottom to draw air downward through items. The downward flow configuration may utilize gravity to assist airflow and facilitate moisture removal.

[0177] Activating a drying process may include directing air upward through the drum system from a bottom sub-chamber through the air ports located in a lower portion of an inner drum. Upward airflow may be generated by directing air into the bottom sub-chamber and forcing it upward through the air ports and through items contained in the drum. The upward flow configuration may provide uniform air distribution and efficient moisture extraction.

[0178] Activating a drying process may include controlling the direction of airflow to optimize or enhance drying efficiency by selectively directing air through a bottom subchamber and upward through items contained in an inner drum. The controlled airflow approach may involve adjusting fan speeds, airflow rates, and directional control mechanisms to enhance drying performance based on load characteristics and moisture content.

[0179] This may be performed in coordination with rotating drum and / or agitating items.

[0180] Activating a drying process may involve coordinating fan system operation with seal engagement to establish proper airflow patterns. The fan system may be activated after seal engagement is confirmed, or the fan activation sequence may be coordinated with seal timing to ensure optimal airflow direction and pressure distribution throughout the drum system.REV0-M02

[0181] Activating a drying process may optionally include heating air moved through the drying device using heating elements positioned within airflow paths. However, the efficient longitudinal airflow design may reduce or eliminate the need for heating elements in some applications, allowing for energy-efficient drying using ambient temperature air with enhanced airflow control.

[0182] In dual-function devices that provide both washing and drying capabilities, the method may include additional blocks S140 and S150 that enable washing operations prior to drying. These blocks utilize the seal system's ability to transition between engaged and disengaged states to reconfigure the drum system for different operational modes, allowing the same device to perform both washing and drying functions efficiently.

[0183] Block S140, which includes disengaging the seal during washing operations to allow fluid flow throughout the drum system, functions to prepare the drum system for washing mode by enabling water circulation, drainage, and spin-cycle operations. Disengaging the seal removes barriers between drum chambers, allowing water to flow freely for washing operations. Disengaging the seal may also be performed during other processes or stages though generally can be used for at least washing.

[0184] Disengaging the seal may involve actively controlling a seal system to transition from engaged to disengaged states or may occur passively based on operational conditions. Active disengagement may include releasing pneumatic pressure, deactivating electromagnetic systems, or retracting mechanical sealing elements. Passive disengagement may occur automatically when washing operations begin, such as through one-way valves that allow water flow to naturally open sealing pathways.

[0185] Disengaging the seal may occur as part of device initialization, where the system starts with the seal in a disengaged state ready for either washing or loading operations. The device may also disengage the seal after completing drying cycles to reset the system for subsequent operations. Additionally, the seal system may naturally disengage through performing the washing process itself, such as when water pressure opens one-way valves or when washing fluid flow causes flexible sealing elements to move to open positions or when the rotation of the drums engage or disengage a seal system.REV0-M02[oi86] Disengaging the seal enables fluid flow between the bottom sub-chamber and side sub-chamber, allowing water to circulate throughout the drum system during washing operations. This fluid flow preparation may be used for water filling, detergent distribution, and / or drainage through side air ports during spin cycles.

[0187] Block S150, which includes performing a washing process prior to the drying process, functions to clean items contained within the drum system before transitioning to drying operations. The washing process operates the drum system in a washing mode that utilizes water, detergent, and mechanical action to remove soil and contaminants from items.

[0188] Performing a washing process may include operating the drum system in a washing mode before transitioning to a drying mode. Washing mode activation involves configuring the system for water-based cleaning operations, including ensuring the seal system remains disengaged to permit fluid flow and activating washing-specific subsystems.

[0189] Performing a washing process may include dispensing water into the inner chamber through fluid dispensing systems and introducing detergent or other cleaning agents. The washing process may involve controlling water temperature, flow rates, and detergent concentrations to optimize cleaning performance for different types of items and soil conditions.

[0190] Performing a washing process may include various washing cycle operations such as filling, agitation, rinsing, and spin-drying phases. The drum system may rotate at different speeds for different washing phases, with side air ports facilitating water removal during spin cycles. The washing process utilizes the fluid flow capabilities enabled by the disengaged seal system.

[0191] Performing a washing process may include preparing the system for transition to drying mode by completing drainage operations, removing excess water through spin cycles, and ensuring the drum system is ready for seal engagement and airflow activation. The transition preparation establishes the conditions necessary for effective drying operations to follow.4. System ArchitectureREV0-M02

[0192] The systems and methods of the embodiments can be embodied and / or implemented at least in part as a machine configured to receive a computer-readable medium storing computer-readable instructions. The instructions can be executed by computer-executable components integrated with the application, applet, host, server, network, website, communication service, communication interface, hardware / firmware / software elements of a user computer or mobile device, wristband, smartphone, or any suitable combination thereof. Other systems and methods of the embodiment can be embodied and / or implemented at least in part as a machine configured to receive a computer-readable medium storing computer-readable instructions. The instructions can be executed by computer-executable components integrated with apparatuses and networks of the type described above. The computer- readable medium can be stored on any suitable computer readable media such as RAMs, ROMs, flash memory, EEPROMs, optical devices (CD or DVD), hard drives, floppy drives, or any suitable device. The computer-executable component can be a processor, but any suitable dedicated hardware device can (alternatively or additionally) execute the instructions.

[0193] In one variation, a system comprising of one or more computer-readable mediums (e.g., non-transitory computer-readable mediums) storing instructions that, when executed by the one or more computer processors, cause a computing platform to perform operations comprising those of the system or method described herein such as: disengaging the seal; performing a washing process; engaging a seal to direct airflow through the drum system; and / or activating a drying process by directing air longitudinally through the drum system.

[0194] FIGURE 22 is an exemplary computer architecture diagram of one implementation of the system. In some implementations, the system is implemented in a plurality of devices in communication over a communication channel and / or network. In some implementations, the elements of the system are implemented in separate computing devices. In some implementations, two or more of the system elements are implemented in same devices. The system and portions of the system may be integrated into a computing device or system that can serve as or within the system.

[0195] The communication channel 1001 interfaces with the processors 1002A- 1002N, the memory (e.g., a random-access memory (RAM)) 1003, a read only memoryREV0-M02(ROM) 1004, a processor-readable storage medium 1005, a display device 1006, a user input device 1007, and a network device 1008. As shown, the computer infrastructure maybe used in connecting fan system 1101, seal system 1102, washing system 1103, control system 1104, and / or other suitable computing devices.

[0196] The processors 1002A-1002N may take many forms, such CPUs (Central Processing Units), GPUs (Graphical Processing Units), microprocessors, ML / DL (Machine Learning / Deep Learning) processing units such as a Tensor Processing Unit, FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Arrays, custom processors, and / or any suitable type of processor.

[0197] The processors 1002A-1002N and the main memory 1003 (or some subcombination) can form a processing unit 1010. In some embodiments, the processing unit includes one or more processors communicatively coupled to one or more of a RAM, ROM, and machine-readable storage medium; the one or more processors of the processing unit receive instructions stored by the one or more of a RAM, ROM, and machine-readable storage medium via a bus; and the one or more processors execute the received instructions. In some embodiments, the processing unit is an ASIC (Application-Specific Integrated Circuit). In some embodiments, the processing unit is a SoC (System -on-Chip). In some embodiments, the processing unit includes one or more of the elements of the system.

[0198] A network device 1008 may provide one or more wired or wireless interfaces for exchanging data and commands between the system and / or other devices, such as devices of external systems. Such wired and wireless interfaces include, for example, a universal serial bus (USB) interface, Bluetooth interface, Wi-Fi interface, Ethernet interface, near field communication (NFC) interface, and the like.

[0199] Computer and / or Machine-readable executable instructions comprising of configuration for software programs (such as an operating system, application programs, and device drivers) can be stored in the memory 1003 from the processor- readable storage medium 1005, the ROM 1004 or any other data storage system.

[0200] When executed by one or more computer processors, the respective machineexecutable instructions maybe accessed by at least one of processors 1002A-1002N (of a processing unit 1010) via the communication channel 1001, and then executed by at least one of processors 1001A-1001N. Data, databases, data records or other storedREV0-M02 forms data created or used by the software programs can also be stored in the memory 1003, and such data is accessed by at least one of processors 1002A-1002N during execution of the machine-executable instructions of the software programs.

[0201] The processor-readable storage medium 1005 is one of (or a combination of two or more of) a hard drive, a flash drive, a DVD, a CD, an optical disk, a floppy disk, a flash storage, a solid-state drive, a ROM, an EEPROM, an electronic circuit, a semiconductor memory device, and the like. The processor-readable storage medium 1005 can include an operating system, software programs, device drivers, and / or other suitable sub-systems or software.

[0202] As used herein, first, second, third, etc. are used to characterize and distinguish various elements, components, regions, layers and / or sections. These elements, components, regions, layers and / or sections should not be limited by these terms. Use of numerical terms may be used to distinguish one element, component, region, layer and / or section from another element, component, region, layer and / or section. Use of such numerical terms does not imply a sequence or order unless clearly indicated by the context. Such numerical references may be used interchangeable without departing from the teaching of the embodiments and variations herein.

[0203] As a person skilled in the art will recognize from the previous detailed description and from the figures and claims, modifications and changes can be made to the embodiments of the invention without departing from the scope of this invention as defined in the following claims.

Claims

REV0-M02CLAIMSWe Claim:

1. A drying system comprising: an inner drum rotatable about and defining an inner chamber for containing items to be dried; an outer drum containing the inner drum with a bottom sub-chamber defined between the inner drum and outer drum; a plurality of defined air ports in a bottom portion of the inner drum; a seal system positioned between the inner drum and the outer drum, the seal system having an engaged state that restricts airflow from bypassing the air ports and a disengaged state; and a fan system configured to direct airflow through the air ports and through the inner chamber.

2. The system of claim i, wherein the inner drum is a laundry drum; and the system includes a lid positioned above the inner drum through which laundry may be deposited into the inner chamber.

3. The system of claim 1, wherein the seal system in the engaged state includes sealing contact between the drums that directs airflow through the air ports.

4. The system of claim 2, further comprising a washing system that in a washing mode dispenses water into the inner chamber to wash items.

5. The system of claim 4, wherein the washing system includes a fluid dispensing system configured to dispense water into the inner chamber and the inner drum includes a plurality of side air ports extending through side walls of the inner drum to facilitate water removal from the inner drum to a space between the outer drum and inner drum.

6. The system of claim 4, wherein the seal system is in the disengaged state during washing operations to permit water flow between the inner drum and outer drum, and in the engaged state during drying operations to restrict airflow from bypassing the air ports.REV0-M027. The system of claim 1, wherein the fan system includes an air inlet positioned above the inner drum and air channels directing air downward into the bottom subchamber.

8. The system of claim 1, wherein the fan system includes an air inlet connected to the bottom sub-chamber by air channels, the fan system drawing air through the air channels into the bottom sub-chamber and forcing air upward through the air ports into the inner chamber.

9. The system of claim 1, wherein the air ports extend through a bottom wall of the inner drum.

10. The system of claim 1, wherein the inner drum has a cylindrical shape with a longitudinal axis defining a central axis of rotation.

11. The system of claim 1, wherein the inner drum has a conical shape with a longitudinal axis defining a central axis of rotation.

12. The system of claim 1, wherein the inner drum includes a plurality of side air ports extending through the side walls of the inner drum and providing fluid communication between the inner chamber and the side sub-chamber.

13. The system of claim 1, wherein the seal system is a dynamic seal system that transitions between the engaged state and the disengaged state.

14. The system of claim 13, wherein the dynamic seal system comprises a pneumatic seal including an inflatable member positioned between the inner drum and the outer drum, and a pneumatic control system connected to the inflatable member to selectively inflate and deflate the inflatable member.

15. The system of claim 14, wherein the inflatable member comprises deformable material that expands radially when pressurized to contact both the inner drum and the outer drum.

16. The system of claim 13, wherein the dynamic seal system comprises an electromechanical actuator connected to a movable sealing element, the actuator moving the sealing element between a first position corresponding to the disengaged state and a second position corresponding to the engaged state.

17. The system of claim 13, wherein the dynamic seal system comprises a hydraulic actuator connected to a movable sealing element, the hydraulic actuator using fluidREV0-M02 pressure to move the sealing element between the engaged state and the disengaged state.

18. The system of claim i, wherein the seal system comprises a flexible sealing member extending from one of the inner drum or outer drum toward the other, the flexible sealing member having a configuration that permits fluid flow in a first direction while blocking fluid flow in an opposite direction.

19. The system of claim 18, wherein the flexible sealing member comprises a plurality of flexible flaps, each flap having a first end attached to one of the inner drum or outer drum and a free end that contacts a sealing surface when fluid flows in the opposite direction.

20. The system of claim 1, wherein the seal system comprises complementary structures extending from the inner drum and the outer drum forming a serpentine fluid path, and a fluid collection region positioned within the serpentine fluid path.

21. The system of claim 1, wherein the seal system comprises a plurality of bearings positioned circumferentially between the inner drum and the outer drum, the bearings providing rolling contact between the inner drum and outer drum while blocking fluid flow between the bottom sub-chamber and the side sub-chamber.

22. The system of claim 1, wherein the seal system comprises a static sealing member extending from the outer drum and contacting the inner drum, the static sealing member including a low friction contact surface that permits rotation of the inner drum while maintaining sealing contact.

23. The system of claim 1, wherein the seal system comprises a hinged sealing member that pivots between the engaged state when the inner drum is stationary and the disengaged state when the inner drum rotates, the hinged sealing member being responsive to centrifugal forces generated by rotation of the inner drum.

24. A method of operating a drying system, the method comprising: providing a drum system configured to contain laundry items; engaging a seal to direct airflow through the drum system; and activating a drying process by directing air through air ports in the drum system.REV0-M0225. The method of claim 24, further comprising performing a washing step prior to the drying process, wherein the drum system is operated in a washing mode before transitioning to a drying mode.

26. The method of claim 25, further comprising: disengaging the seal during the washing step to allow fluid flow throughout the drum system; and engaging the seal during the drying process to direct airflow through designated air ports.

27. The method of claim 24, wherein the drying process includes moving air downward through the drum system from a top opening through the air ports.

28. The method of claim 24, wherein the drying process includes moving air upward through the drum system from a bottom sub-chamber through the air ports located in a lower portion of an inner drum.

29. The method of claim 24, wherein engaging the seal comprises inflating a pneumatic seal positioned between an inner drum and an outer drum of the drum system.

30. The method of claim 24, wherein engaging the seal comprises electromagnetically actuating a sealing structure to engage and disengage sealing contact between drum components.

31. The method of claim 24, wherein engaging the seal comprises hydraulically actuating a seal using fluid pressure to control sealing engagement.

32. The method of claim 24, wherein engaging the seal comprises operating a passive seal system that automatically engages based on airflow direction through the drum system.

33. The method of claim 24, further comprising controlling the direction of airflow to optimize drying efficiency by selectively directing air through a bottom sub-chamber and upward through laundry items contained in an inner drum.

Images