Water tank for configurable dehumidifier

Abstract

Described is a removable dehumidifier water tank (300) configured to receive water comprising a water inlet (370) for receiving water wherein the water inlet (370) is located at a bottom side, in particular an off center position of the bottom side of the water tank (300).

Description

[0001] WATER TANK FOR CONFIGURABLE DEHUMIDIFIER

[0002] Technical field

[0003] The present disclosure relates to a dehumidifier and in particular to a water tank for a dehumidifier configurable in different modes of operation. The present application also extends to devices used in combination with a dehumidifier.

[0004] Background

[0005] Dehumidifiers are domestic appliances used to reduce humidity levels in indoor spaces. High humidity can lead to discomfort, mold growth, and damage to materials.

[0006] Dehumidifiers with large dehumidification capacity work based on the principles of refrigeration. In a dehumidifier a refrigerant (usually a gas) is used to extract moisture from the air. The process typically involves cooling the air to condense moisture. In the refrigeration process conventional components used in a refrigeration cooling circuit can be used such as a compressor to drive the refrigerant in the cooling circuit, a condenser and an evaporator and also some type of expansion device such as an expansion valve. When humid air reaches the cooled evaporator the water in the air condenses and can be collected to remove water from the air whereby the air is dehumidified.

[0007] Thus, warm, humid air enters the dehumidifier, and the evaporator coil cools the air, causing moisture to condense into water droplets. The water is collected in a reservoir or is drained away. The dry air can then be reheated by passing over the condenser. The reheated air is released back into the room, now with reduced humidity.

[0008] Dehumidifiers can be used in different environments, for example in homes such as in basements, bathrooms, and laundry rooms. Dehumidifiers can also be used in commercial buildings such as offices, warehouses, and museums. Another application is after disasters such as after floods or leaks. In summary, dehumidifiers can provide comfortable and healthy indoor environments by efficiently removing excess moisture from the air. However, the water removed from the air needs to be somehow collected and disposed of.

[0009] Different methods can be used to dispose of the collected water. For example, the water can be collected in a tank that is emptied when full, or water can be drained via a hose. For example, US20190137121 describes a dehumidifier having an annularly shaped water tank at the upper part of the dehumidifier.

[0010] There is a constant desire to improve the functionality of a dehumidifier. There is therefore a need for an improved dehumidifier. In particular there is a need for a water tank attachable to a dehumidifier main unit.

[0011] Summary

[0012] One object of the present disclosure is therefore to provide an improved water tank for a dehumidifier.

[0013] This object and or others are achieved by a water tank as set out in the appended claims.

[0014] In accordance with the present invention a removable dehumidifier water tank configured to receive water is provided. The water tank comprises a water inlet for receiving water wherein the water inlet is located at a bottom side of the water tank. The water tank comprises an upper part and a lower part where the upper part of the water tank has a larger lateral extension than the lower part of the water tank. The bottom side of the water tank comprises a separatable part that can be separated from the lower part and wherein the water inlet is located in the separatable part. Hereby an easy to assemble top water tank can be provided. In accordance with one embodiment, the water inlet is located at an off-center position of the bottom side of the water tank. Hereby space can be used more efficiently inside the top water tank.

[0015] In accordance with one embodiment, a flexible hose (395) is connected to the water inlet. Hereby assembly of the top water tank can be facilitated.

[0016] In accordance with one embodiment, a check valve (393) is located at the water inlet. Hereby water can be efficiently contained inside the top water tank even during removal thereof.

[0017] In accordance with one embodiment, the dehumidifier water tank comprises a support anchored at the inside of the bottom side of the water tank, the support extending in a vertical direction towards the top of the water tank. Hereby a structure for housing components inside the water tank can be provided.

[0018] In accordance with one embodiment, the inside of the support is divided into two sections, a wet section where a floater is located and a dry section where the water inlet is located. Hereby efficient use of the space in the water tank can be obtained. For example, the wet section and the dry section are divided by a wall. Also, at least one support opening can be located in the outer wall of the wet section of the support.

[0019] In accordance with one embodiment, at least one opening is provided at the top side of the wet section of support. Hereby air can exit the wet section at the topside thereof.

[0020] In accordance with one embodiment, the dehumidifier water tank comprises a floater configured to cooperate with a sensor, wherein the the floater has an umbrella shape, configured to trap an air bubble under its top when the water level rises in the water tank. Hereby an efficient mechanism for determining water level inside the water tank can be provided.

[0021] In accordance with another aspect of the invention a method of controlling a pump in a dehumidifier is provided. The dehumidifier is configurable with a top water tank located on a topside of the dehumidifier, and the method comprises to operate the pump to pump water to the top water tank, to check if the top water tank is present, and to stop the pump if the top water tank is determined to not be present. Hereby water will not be pumped when no water tank is present such that water is not accidentally pumped outside the dehumidifier. The presence of a water tank can be determined based on a sensor output signal. In particular the sensor output signal can be obtained from a magnetic switch cooperating with a floater.

[0022] In accordance with one embodiment, the method further comprises to check if the top water tank is full, and if the top water tank is determined to be full, the pump is stopped. Hereby water will not be pumped when no water tank is present such that water is not accidentally pumped outside the dehumidifier. If the top water tank is full can be determined based on a sensor output signal. In particular the sensor output signal obtained to determine if the top water tank is full can be obtained from the same sensor providing the sensor output signal used to determine the presence of a water tank.

[0023] Brief description of the drawings

[0024] The invention will now be described in more detail by means of examples and with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0025] Fig. 1 is a general view in perspective of a dehumidifier with a dehumidifier main unit and a water tank,

[0026] Fig. 2 is a side view of dehumidifier main unit, - Fig. 3 is a cross-sectional view of the dehumidifier main unit of Fig.2,

[0027] - Fig. 4 shows a detail of Fig. 3,

[0028] - Fig. 5 is a top view of a dehumidifier main unit having a lid,

[0029] - Fig. 6 is a view similar to Fig. 5 with the lid removed,

[0030] - Figs. 7 and 7a are views illustrating pumping of water inside the dehumidifier main unit,

[0031] - Fig. 8 is a cross-sectional side view of the bottom part of the dehumidifier main unit.

[0032] - Fig. 9 is a side view in perspective of a water tank,

[0033] - Fig. 10 is a bottom view in perspective of a water tank,

[0034] - Fig. 11 is a top view in perspective of a water tank,

[0035] - Fig. 12 is a side view of a water tank,

[0036] - Fig. 13 is a top view in perspective of a water tank with a lid,

[0037] - Fig. 14 is a side view of a water tank in a tilted position,

[0038] - Fig. 15 is a cross-sectional view of a water tank,

[0039] - Fig. 16 shows a detail of Fig. 15,

[0040] - Figs. 17 and 18 show a water tank with a removable lid,

[0041] - Fig. 19 shows a dehumidifier main unit with a lid having a plug,

[0042] - Fig. 20 and 21 show a lid with a plug,

[0043] - Fig. 22 shows a dehumidifier main unit with a lid having a hose connector,

[0044] - Figs 23 and 24 show a lid with a hose connector,

[0045] - Figs 25 - 28 are different views of a water tank in accordance with a second embodiment, and

[0046] - Figs. 29 - 30 are flow charts illustrating steps performed when operating a dehumidifier.

[0047] Detailed description

[0048] Aspects of the present invention will now be described more fully. Like numbers refer to like elements throughout. Well-known functions or constructions will not necessarily be described in detail for ease of understanding and / or clarity. It is further to be understood that the features described can be combined in any suitable manner to meet different implementational needs. Some components can be excluded from some embodiments. The below description provides some exemplary embodiments and does not limit the invention.

[0049] The present disclosure relates to a dehumidifier. In particular the present disclosure relates to a portable dehumidifier that can be used for domestic purposes and similar applications. In Fig. 1 , a dehumidifier 100 is depicted. The dehumidifier 100 comprises a dehumidifier main unit 200 and a water tank 300 located on top of the dehumidifier main unit 200. The dehumidifier main unit 200 comprises an air inlet 210. The air inlet 210 is located on a side wall of the dehumidifier main unit 200. The dehumidifier main unit 200 also comprises an air outlet 220. The air outlet 220 can be configured to let air out in an upwards direction as seen when the dehumidifier is placed on a floor. The air outlet 220 can be generally annularly shaped and can follow the upper outside perimeter of the dehumidifier main unit 200 such that the water tank 300 can occupy the central part of upper side of the dehumidifier main unit 200, guiding the airflow in radial direction for optimal air distribution.

[0050] Also, the water tank can be formed with an upper part having a first lateral extension and a lower part having a second lateral extension where the lateral extension of the lower part is smaller than the later extension of the upper part. Hereby the upper part can be given essentially the same lateral extension as the dehumidifier main unit 200. At the same time, the lower part, the bottom part of which is placed on top of the dehumidifier will have smaller lateral extension than the dehumidifier main unit. Hereby a space on the top side of the dehumidifier main unit can be formed such that an air outlet can be formed on the top side of the dehumidifier main unit for air to exit the dehumidifier main unit 200 via the air outlet 220 in an upwards direction. Further, the upper part of the dehumidifier main unit can have a bottom side shaped to bend the outlet airflow in radial direction for optimal air distribution.

[0051] Further, the casing 201 of the dehumidifier main unit 200 can be symmetrical along a vertical center axis of the dehumidifier main unit 200. For example, the casing 201 of the dehumidifier main unit 200, when seen from above, can have a polygonal shape or a polygonal shape with rounded corners and where the water tank has the same shape when seen from above. The area of the top side of the water tank 300 can advantageously have the same size as the upper area of the top side of the dehumidifier main unit 200 to provide an optimal use of space. On the other hand, the area contacting the main water tank can be small so as to provide a space on the top side of the dehumidifier main unit 200 not occupied by the water tank. This freed up space can be located outside a center portion of the top side of the dehumidifier main unit.

[0052] In Fig. 2, the dehumidifier main unit 200 is shown in a side view. The dehumidifier main unit 200 comprises a bottom section 230 housing a water tray.

[0053] In Fig. 3, the dehumidifier main unit 200 is shown in a cross-sectional view along the plane A-A in Fig. 2. The dehumidifier main unit 200 comprises a cooling circuit formed by a compressor 240 configured to drive a refrigerant in the cooling circuit, a condenser 250 and an evaporator 260. Typically, also some form of expansion device such as an expansion valve (not shown) is located in the cooling circuit. The dehumidifier main unit 200 further comprises a fan 280 configured to draw air from the air inlet 210 through the dehumidifier main unit 200 and out via the air outlet 220. The air inlet 210 can in accordance with some embodiment be provided with an air filter 212 to filter the air entering the dehumidifier main unit 200. When humid air reaches the cooled evaporator 260, the water in the air condenses and can be collected in the water tray 232 of the bottom section 230 to remove water from the air whereby the air is dehumidified. The dehumidified air is then warmed by the condenser 250 and can exit the dehumidifier main unit 200 via the air outlet 220.

[0054] Thus, warm, humid air enters the dehumidifier main unit 200, and the evaporator 260 cools the air, causing moisture to condense into water droplets. The water is collected. The dry air can then be reheated by passing over the condenser 250. The reheated air is released back into the room, now with reduced humidity. The dehumidifier main unit 200 is configured to enable pumping of collected water to a water tank placed on top of the dehumidifier main unit 200. To enable water to leave the dehumidifier main unit 200 via the top of the dehumidifier main unit 200, the dehumidifier main unit 200 comprises a top water outlet 290. The top water outlet 290 is located at the top side of the dehumidifier main unit 200 and a distance inside of the outer perimeter of the top side. Typically, the top water outlet 290 can be located at least 10 or 15 cm from the outer perimeter of the top side of the dehumidifier main unit 200. In particular the top water outlet 290 can be located centrally at a mid-point of the top side of the dehumidifier main unit 200.

[0055] The top water outlet 290 is fed with water via a water pipe 293 running inside the dehumidifier main unit 200 from the bottom section 230 to the top water outlet 290 located at the top side of the dehumidifier main unit 200. By locating the top water outlet 290 well inside the outer perimeter of the dehumidifier main unit 200, the air outlet 220 can be also located at the top side of the dehumidifier main unit 200 allowing for air to be expelled in a vertical direction from the dehumidifier main unit 200.

[0056] Thus, in accordance with some embodiments the air outlet 220, at least partly, surrounds the top water outlet 290 on the top side of the dehumidifier main unit 200. In accordance with some embodiments the air outlet 220 completely surrounds the top water outlet 290 at the topside of the dehumidifier main unit 200 forming an annular air outlet 220 on the topside of the dehumidifier main unit 200.

[0057] The dehumidifier main unit 200, can further comprise a top sensor 294 located near the top side of the dehumidifier main unit 200. The dehumidifier main unit 200 further comprises an electronic box 295. The electronic box can house different electronic drivers for powering different components of the dehumidifier main unit 200 such as the compressor, the fan and the pump and other various electric components that may be present in the dehumidifier main unit 200. The electronic box can also comprise a controller 297 for controlling the dehumidifier main unit 200. The controller 297 can in accordance with some embodiments be operatively connected to receive sensor signals, such as sensor signals from the top sensor 294. The controller 297 can based on such received sensor signals control various components of the dehumidifier main unit 200 such as the pump. The data from the top sensor 294 and also from other sensors when present can be collected and stored in the dehumidifier main unit. The data can also be transferred to other units or to a central server such as a cloud solution. The dehumidifier can further be configured to receive data or control signals from other units such as a central server or via a cloud solution to be used as control parameters to enhance the performance of the software running on the dehumidifier main unit.

[0058] In Fig. 4, a detail of the part marked B in Fig. 3 is shown in more detail. In Fig. 4 the top sensor 294 is shown. The top sensor 294 can be configured to sense or receive signals from a water tank placed on top of the dehumidifier main unit 200. For example, the top sensor 294 can be a magnetic sensor sensing a magnetic signal from a water tank placed on top of the dehumidifier main unit 200. The top sensor 294 can be of other types such as a pressure sensor an RFID sensor or some other type of sensor.

[0059] In accordance with some embodiments, the top sensor 294 is configured to sense a signal indicative of if a water tank is placed on the top side of the dehumidifier main unit 200. The top sensor 294 can also be configured to sense a signal indicative of if a water tank placed on top of the dehumidifier main unit 200 is full. The top sensor 294 can also be configured to sense other signals such as a water level in a water tank. In addition, other sensors can be provided. For example, an air inlet sensor 288 can be provided. The air inlet sensor 288 can be provided at the air inlet 210. The air inlet sensor 288 can be configured to sense parameters such as air temperature, relative humidity and air quality. It is to be understood that the top sensor 294 and air inlet sensor 288 are only given as examples of sensors that can be provided for different purposes in the dehumidifier main unit 200. The top sensor 294 and the air inlet sensor can be located at other locations in some embodiments. Also, additional sensors can be provided at other locations in some embodiments to provide output data relating to parameters that can be used in monitoring and control of the dehumidifier main unit 200.

[0060] Sensor signals generated by the top sensor 294 and air inlet sensor 288 can be transferred to a controller 297 of the dehumidifier main unit 200. Based on the sensor signals from for example the top sensor 294 and or the air inlet sensor 288, the dehumidifier main unit 200 can be controlled in different modes by the controller 297. For example, if the sensor signal indicates that there is no water bucket placed on top of the dehumidifier main unit 200, pumping of water through the water pipe 293 can be discontinued. Similarly, if the sensor signal indicates that the water tank 300 placed on top of the dehumidifier main unit 200 is full, pumping of water through the water pipe 293 can be discontinued.

[0061] In Fig. 5, a top view of the dehumidifier main unit 200 is shown. In the embodiment shown in Fig. 5 a lid 205 is placed on top of the top water outlet 290. In this configuration, the dehumidifier main unit 200 can be configured to operate in a mode without a water tank on top of the dehumidifier main unit 200. The lid 205 then serves as a protective member to restrict access to the top water outlet 290 so that the risk for damage of the top water outlet 290 is reduced. Also, the lid 205 can block the top water outlet 290 when the water tank 300 is not installed so that water has to take another way out of the dehumidifier main unit 200. The lid 205 also provides a nice top surface on the dehumidifier main unit 200 when the water tank 300 is not installed.

[0062] There is the possibility to have a top lid with a rotating outlet that allows to install a water hose on top of the dehumidifier main unit 200 and still have a nice aesthetical top surface. Also, as can be seen in Fig. 5, the outer perimeter of the dehumidifier main unit 200 can have a smooth surface such as being circular or as in Fig. 5 being square with rounded corners. The air outlet 220 can be annular with a circular inner and outer perimeter, but can have other shapes. It is also envisaged that the air outlet 220 is located, at least partly, at the side portion of the dehumidifier main unit 200. In Fig. 6, a top view of the dehumidifier main unit 200 is shown with the lid 205 removed. When the lid 205 is removed, the top water outlet 290 can be accessed. The top water outlet 290 is located at the top side of the dehumidifier main unit 200 such that the water can exit the dehumidifier main unit 200 in an upwards direction via the top water outlet 290. The top water outlet 290 can be provided with a sealing 291 to provide a water tight connection to a water tank 300 when a water tank 300 is placed on top of the dehumidifier main unit 200. Further, one or more magnets 296 can be located on the top side of the dehumidifier main unit 200. The magnets 296 can cooperate with magnets located at the bottom side of the water tank 300 for facilitating positioning the water tank in a correct position onto the dehumidifier main unit 200. Also, the top side of the dehumidifier main unit 200 can have an irregular shape in order to facilitate correct placement of the water tank 300. For example, the top side of the dehumidifier main unit 200 can have an indentation 298 matching a protrusion in the bottom side of the water tank 300.

[0063] As can be seen in Fig. 6, the top side of the dehumidifier main unit 200 comprises two sections. A first water tank section 202 where the water tank can be placed. This is the area where the top side of the dehumidifier main unit contacts the bottom side of the water tank 300. The water tank section 202 occupies a center area of the top side of the dehumidifier tank 200. Also, the top side of the dehumidifier main unit has a second, surrounding area 203. The surrounding area at least partly surrounds the water tank section. In the surrounding area 203, the air outlet 220 can be located. Thus, the water tank section only occupies a centrally located fraction of the entire top side of the dehumidifier main unit such as less than 75 % or less than 50 % of the entire area of the top side of dehumidifier main unit 200. In some embodiments the water tank section only occupies a centrally area that is less than 30 % of the entire area of the top side of dehumidifier main unit 200. Hereby a relatively large area of the top side of the dehumidifier main unit 200 is freed up for other uses. At the same time the volume of the water tank can be relatively large because the water tank can expand at an upper end of the water tank 300. In Fig. 7, the bottom section 230 along with the water piping 293 in the dehumidifier main unit 200 is shown. The bottom section 230 comprises a water tray 232. When water is condensed on the evaporator, the water droplets then formed can be collected on the water tray 232. The water tray 232 has a tray outlet 234 via which water can be removed by a pump 236 configured to pump water out via the tray outlet 234. Water can in some other embodiments be removed from the water tray 232 by removing the water tray 232 from the bottom section or a plug or similar can be installed that opens a path to the water tray 232 so that water can be removed by a gravitational force. The pump can also be run in a water tank mode. In the water tank mode, the pump is configured to pump water via the water pipe 293 to the top water outlet 290. Thus, the pump 236 can in accordance with some embodiments be run in different pump modes. The pump modes can comprise, but are not limited to, an off mode where the pump is switched off, a water tray pump mode where water is pumped out via the tray outlet 234 from the water tray, and a water tank mode where water is pumped via the water pipe 293 to the top water outlet 290. The switching between the different pump modes can be done manually, but can also be performed automatically or semi-automatically as will be described in more detail below. The pump 236 can be controlled based on different sensor signals. For example, the pump 236 can be configured to be run in a water tank mode only when a water tank 300 is present and only when the water tank is not full. The determination of if a water tank is present and / or if the water tank 300 is full can be made based on sensor signal(s) from for example the sensor 294.

[0064] Fig. 7a, is a top view of the arrangement inside the dehumidifier main unit 200 as seen in Fig. 7. The triangular part 239 is a base for the compressor. This part of the bottom section is base meant to be dry. Water is collected all around it and can be confined in a water tray 232. The compressor 240 is placed in the center of the water tray 232 to make use of the energy losses from the compressor and increase the collected water temperature minimizing the risk of condensation that might happen on the outer surface of the bottom section 230, or on the drain hose, or on water pipe 293 or on the tank 300. The water tray 232 can then be shaped as an annular shaped section 232 or in a similar shape. In Fig. 8 a cross-sectional view of the bottom section 230 of Fig. 7 is shown. In Fig. 8, a water level sensor arrangement is provided in the water tray 232. The water level sensor arrangement can comprise a floater 237 following the water level of the water tray 232. Further a minimum water level sensor 238 can be provided. When the floater reaches the minimum water level sensor 238, the pump 236 can be placed in an off state to not let the pump run dry. Further a pump activation sensor 239 can be provided. The pump activator sensor 239 generates a signal to activates the pump to either fill the top water tank 300 (if present or not full) or to drain the water out of the water tray 232 via the tray water outlet. When water has been pumped from the water tray 232 so that the water level reaches the minimum water level sensed by the minimum water level sensor 238, a signal is generated to stop the pump 236 to prevent the pump 236 to run dry.

[0065] In Fig. 9, a top view in perspective of a water tank 300 is shown. The water tank 300 can in accordance with some embodiments have an upper outer perimeter 310 matching the shape of the dehumidifier main unit 200. In accordance with some embodiment the upper side of the water tank 300 covers the entire upper side of the dehumidifier main unit 200 as seen from above. The water tank 300 can be provided with water tank lid 320. The water tank lid 320 can in accordance with some embodiments be opened for access of the inside of the water tank 300. Also, a water slit 315 can be provided at the upper rim of the water tank 300. When the water tank 300 is tilted towards the water slit 315, water can flow out via the water slit 315. The water tank 300 can be provided with handles 340 for easy lifting of the water tank 300.

[0066] In another embodiment, the water tank can be made smaller. The outside perimeter of the water tank 300 can then be smaller than the outer perimeter of the dehumidifier main unit 200. In one embodiment, having the surface 352 short in height it can be advantageous to not provide handles. Instead, the underside of the water tank 300 can serve as a lift portion hand the water tank can be removed by lifting the water tank at its bottom side. In this embodiment two pockets or undercuts in the lower part of the surface 352 can be used to guide the user hands to a place providing a good grip for a safe handling of the water tank.

[0067] In Fig. 10, a bottom view in perspective of a water tank 300 is shown. As can be seen in Fig. 10, the water tank 300 can have an upper part 352 having a first lateral extension and a lower part 354 having a second lateral extension where the lateral extension of the lower part 354 is smaller than the later extension of the upper part 352. Hereby the upper part 352 can be given essentially the same lateral extension as the dehumidifier main unit 200 and at the same time a space for air to exit the dehumidifier main unit 200 via the air outlet 220 in an upwards direction and the upper part 352 can have a bottom side shaped to bend the outlet airflow in radial direction for optimal air distribution.

[0068] Further, the bottom side of the water tank 300 and in particular the bottom side of a lower part 354 can be given an irregular shape. Hereby the water tank can be made to only fit in the dehumidifier main unit 200 in on pre-determined orientation so that the water tank 300 will always be placed in the exact same position. The irregular shape can for example be a protrusion 357 at one location in the bottom side of the water tank 300. In another embodiment the bottom shape of 354 can be symmetric thus not including the protrusion 357. In this case the correct placement I alignment of the tank can be verified by using sensors 294.

[0069] In accordance with some embodiments one or several magnets 356 can be placed at the bottom side of the water tank 300. The magnets 356 can cooperate with the magnets 296 on the top side of the dehumidifier main unit 200. In other embodiments either magnets 356 or magnets 296 can be replaced by ferromagnetic inserts. In yet other embodiments all magnets can be replaced by a mechanism providing reassuring feedback to the user about the correct placement of the tank on top of the unit 200. This mechanism can be, but is not limited to, a spring load mechanism providing a clicking sound when the tank is correctly connected. The bottom side of the water tank 300 can also comprise a water inlet 358. By locating the water inlet 358 on the bottom side of the water tank 300, the water pipe connection to the dehumidifier main unit 200 is made easy. For example, the water tank 300 can in accordance with some embodiment just be placed onto dehumidifier main unit 200 and the water supply to the water tank is in place. There is no need for any additional steps for connecting the water from the dehumidifier main unit 200 to the water tank 300.

[0070] In Fig. 11 , an exemplary top view in perspective of a water tank 300 is shown with the water tank lid 320 removed. The inside surface 362 of the water tank 300 can be smooth and without any comers or other sharp bends or structural stiffeners. By shaping the inside in a shape not requiring structural stiffeners, a clean and smooth surface that is easy to clean can be obtained. Thus, by having the entire inside of the water tank 300 formed with a smooth surface 362 it is made easier to clean the inside of the water tank 300. The water tank 300 further comprises a water tank outlet 364. Thus, water pumped from the dehumidifier main unit 200 to the water tank 300 will be pumped via the water pipe 293 to the top water outlet 290 and into the water tank 300 via the water inlet 358. The water outlet 290 located at the top side of the dehumidifier main unit 200 and the water inlet 358 located in the bottom side of the water tank 300 can advantageously be located along a central vertical axis of the dehumidifier.

[0071] The water then flows into the water tank 300 via the water tank outlet 364. The water tank outlet 364 can in accordance with some embodiments be mounted on a support 366 inside the water tank 300. The support 366 can also provide other functions as will be described below.

[0072] In accordance with some embodiments the water outlet 364 is made flush to the surface of the support 366 to let the water drip along that surface of the support 366 and thereby minimizing the splashing noise of water entering the water tank 300.

[0073] In Fig. 12, a side view of the water tank 300 is shown. In the view of Fig. 12, the water tank lid 320 is placed in a cleaning position. The cleaning position allows a user to fully open the water tank lid 320 which is hinged on hinges 324. When the water tank lid 320 is fully opened it is easy to access the inside of the water tank 300 to clean it. Further, a water tank lid latch 322 can be provided at the bottom side of the water tank lid 320. The water tank lid latch 322 can be located here to interact with a click to open latch mechanism so to retain the lid in position when not fully opened for tank cleaning operations.

[0074] In Fig. 13, a top view of the water tank 300 is shown. In Fig. 13, the water tank is placed in an emptying position where water can be poured out from the water tank 300. In the emptying position the water tank lid 320 only needs to be opened a few degrees, such as 1 - 5 degrees from a position with the water tank lid 320 closed. Water can then be poured out by tilting the water tank 300. When a water slit 315 is provided at the upper rim of the water tank 300, water can be directed via the water slit 315.

[0075] In Fig. 14, a view from the side of the water tank 300 is shown. In Fig. 14 the water tank 300 is tilted to allow water to exit the water tank 300 with the water tank lid 320 in an emptying position. In particular, when a water slit 315 is provided at the upper rim of the water tank 300, the water tank 300 can be tilted towards the slit 315 so as to allow water to exit via the slit 315 whereby a better control of the outflow of water from the water tank 300 can be obtained.

[0076] In Fig. 15, a cross-sectional view of the water tank 300 is shown. In Fig. 15, the water tank lid 320 is in a closed position and supported by hinges 324. In other embodiments the water tank lid 324 can be supported or held in place by other means such as magnets or a snap fit connector. Fig. 15 also shows the support 366. The support 366 will be described in more detail below.

[0077] In Fig. 16, a more detailed cross- sectional view of the water tank 300 with the support 366 is shown. The support 366 can house a floater 391 . The floater 391 can comprise a magnet or some other device that can be sensed by the sensor in the dehumidifier main unit such as an RFID tag. When there is little water in the water tank 300, the floater 391 is in a low position and the magnet of the floater can be sensed by the sensor 294 configured to sense or receive signals from the water tank 300 placed on top of the dehumidifier main unit 200. When the water level rises in the water tank 300 the floater will elevate the magnet inside the water tank and this can be sensed by the sensor 294 whereby pumping of water to the water tank can be stopped from dehumidifier main unit 200 before there is an overflow of water in the water tank 300. Similarly, if the water tank 300 is removed from the dehumidifier main unit 200, the signal from the magnet of the floater 391 will also be removed and cannot be sensed by the sensor 294 and the pumping of water to the water tank can be stopped from the dehumidifier main unit 200 when the water tank 300 is removed. The floater 391 can also be configured to float only when the water level exceeds a certain predetermined water level.

[0078] Fig. 16 also illustrates an exemplary waterflow inside the water tank 300. Water can enter the water tank 300 via the water inlet 358. The water inlet 358 can comprise a check valve 393 or similar configured to block the water inlet when the water inlet is removed from the top water outlet 290 of the dehumidifier main unit 200 so as to thereby prevent water from exiting the water tank 300 via the water inlet 358 when the water tank 300 is removed from the dehumidifier main unit 200. Water from the water inlet 358 can be guided to the water tank outlet 364 via a hose 395 located inside the water tank 300. In particular the hose can be located inside the support 366. The hose 395 can be flexible. Fig. 16 further, shows a click-to-open mechanism 397 located at the top of the support 366. The click-to-open mechanism can be configured to cooperate with the water tank lid latch 322 in the water tank lid 320 such that the water tank lid 320 is opened when the top of the water tank 300 is pressed or pushed. The water tank lid latch 322 can for example be a magnet.

[0079] Further, in the embodiment shown in Fig. 16 a hose 395 interconnects the water inlet 358 to the water tank outlet 364 and the water tank outlet 364 is located above the water surface inside the water tank 300. In such an embodiment is no need for a check valve 393, since water cannot exit the water tank 300 via the water inlet 358 as long as the water tank outlet is kept above the water surface inside the water tank 300.

[0080] In Fig. 17, a side view of the water tank 300 is shown. In the embodiment shown in Fig. 17 is detached from the water tank 300. The lid 320 is attachable to the water tank 300 by some type of connector such as a snap fit or magnets. The lid can in this embodiment be easily removed from the top of the water tank 300.

[0081] In Fig. 18, is similar to Fig. 17. In Fig 18, the water tank 300 is shown in perspective with the lid 320 put in place. In the shown embodiment the tank surface 352 is short and the tank can be operated without the need of handles or pockets or undercuts on the lower surface that might be present in other embodiments.

[0082] In Fig. 19 a view in perspective of the dehumidifier main unit 200 with a lid 205 is shown with the lid 205 separated from the dehumidifier main unit 200. When the dehumidifier main unit 200 has the lid 205 removed, the top water outlet 290 can be accessed.

[0083] In Fig. 20, the lid 205 is shown in a cross-sectional view. The lid 205 can block the top water outlet 290 when the water tank 300 is not installed so that water has to take another way out of the dehumidifier main unit 200. The lid 205 also provides a nice top surface on the dehumidifier main unit 200 when the water tank 300 is not installed.

[0084] In Fig. 21 the lid 205 is shown in bottom view in perspective. The lid 205 comprises a plug 206 for providing a water tight seal to the top water outlet 290 when the lid 205 is installed. The plug 206 can be provided with a sealing. In Fig. 22, a view in perspective of the dehumidifier main unit 200 with a lid 205 is shown with the lid 205 separated from the dehumidifier main unit 200. The lid 205 in accordance with the embodiment of Fig. 22 has a hose connector 207 placed on the top side of the lid 205. The hose connector can be used to attach a hose to the top side of the lid 205. Hereby water can be output from the dehumidifier main unit 200 via the top via the hose connector 207 and a hose connected thereto. The hose connector 207 can be configured in a rotatable manner.

[0085] In Fig. 23, the lid 205 in accordance with the embodiment of Fig, 22 is shown in a cross-sectional view. The lid 205 comprises the hose connector 207. The bottom end of the hose connector 207 can be connected to the top water outlet 290 and the upper end of the hose connector can serve as a connector for a hose to expel water from the dehumidifier main unit 200.

[0086] In Fig. 24 the lid 205 of Fig. 23 is shown in bottom view in perspective showing the bottom end of the hose connector 207. The bottom end of the hose connector can be provided with as sealing for establishing a water tight connection to the top water outlet 290.

[0087] In Fig. 25, a water tank 300 in accordance with another embodiment is shown in a bottom view. The water tank 300 has a water inlet 370. In the embodiment shown in Fig. 25, the water inlet 370 is located slightly off-center in the lower part 354 of the water tank 300. By locating the water inlet 370 off-center in the lower part 354, more space can be made available in the support 366 where components such as check valves 393 or floaters 373 of different shapes can be effectively contained without moving the support 366 position from the center of the tank or protruding outside the volume contained by the support 366.

[0088] In Fig. 26, a view in perspective of the water tank 300 in accordance with the embodiment of Fig. 25 is shown with the water inlet 370 partly removed. In the embodiment of Fig. 26, the water inlet 370 can be mounted on a separatable part 399 that can be separated from the lower part 354. The separation can for example be performed by removal of screws 398 or similar fastening means. The presented embodiment of Fig. 26 shows an example of potential assembly for the tank water connection interface: The separate part can also have a flexible hose 395 and a check valve 393 installed on the separatable part 399 mounted with fastening devices (like screws) to lower part 354 of the water tank bottom.

[0089] In Fig. 27, a top view of the water tank 300 is shown with the lid removed. In The embodiment of Fig, 27, the support 366 have openings 371 at the top side of the wet section of the support 366 see below. The purpose of the openings 371 is to allow air to be vented form the support 366 while the water level rises into the tank 300. An opening 371 for ventilation is important for having the same water level inside the support 366 and outside the support, inside the tank 300. Additionally, the opening 371 is also preventing water from being stuck inside the support 366 after emptying the water tank 300.

[0090] In Fig. 28, a cross-sectional view of the water tank in accordance with the embodiment in Figs. 25, 26, and 27 is shown. In Fig. 28, the inside of the support 366 is divided into two sections, a wet section where a floater 373 is located and a dry section where the water inlet 370 is located. The wet section and the dry section are divided by a wall 375. The floater cooperates with a water level sensor 372 located at the bottom side of the water tank 300. Water is filled to the wet section where the floater 373 is located via support openings 374 located in the outer wall of the support.

[0091] In the embodiment of Fig. 28, the floater 373 has an umbrella shape, configured to trap an air bubble under its top when the water level rises in the water tank 300. The trapped air bubble exerts a lifting force to the magnet 372 facing the sensor 294 located on the top side of the main unit 200. When the floater movement is detected, and the maximum allowed level is reached, and the water tank 300 is determined to be full. Water can enter the support 366 wet section through the support opening 374. In this embodiment the magnet 372 enables the sensor 294 located on the top side of the main unit 200 to be used to both sense the presence of a water tank and also the availability of the water tank 300 to contain more water.

[0092] When the main unit is operated different sensors can communicate with the controller of the main unit or with the control mainboard. For example, sensors for:

[0093] 1 ) water level detection into the water tank, especially the condition of maximum water level reached.

[0094] 2) the presence of the water tank.

[0095] 3) the presence of an air filter

[0096] 4) The water level of the bottom tank, minimum and maximum level

[0097] 5) The temperature and relative humidity of the air

[0098] 6) the air quality (pollution, VOCs, pollen, etc.)

[0099] 7) the filter lifetime according to the previous air quality measurements can be used.

[0100] In accordance with some embodiments, one sensor is used to detect both the presence of the water tank and the water level. This can be done with a magnetic floater that floats only at a specific water level, indicating that the bucket is full and the unit needs to be emptied. This is done by triggering a magnetic switch cooperating with the floater.

[0101] When the magnetic switch is not triggered by the presence of the floater it can indicate 2 different situations that requires to shut off the system, stopping the dehumidification process. In fact, if either the tank is full or the tank is not present the water cannot be pumped nor further accumulated into the water tray. These two alarming conditions can be managed by the same floater & magnetic switch.

[0102] If there is no water tank because the product is installed with a hose for a continuous drain, the magnetic switch can be to be triggered not to stop the dehumidification process. This can be done by having a magnet integrated into the plastic cover that is located on top of the dehumidifier main unit when the water tank is not available. This magnet permanently integrated into the plastic lid will put the magnetic switch in an ON state for the dehumidification process allowing a continuous drain installation as the lid is perceived as a never filling water tank.

[0103] Further, Air Filter presence can be detected with RFID or another switch triggered by the filter presence. Air quality sensor can detect unwanted particles in air and control the speed of the fan to reach clean air as soon as possible and communicate with the user about the room condition and the filter condition, allowing a good prediction on the time left to expire the filter lifetime according to the previous air quality history, reassuring that the filter is providing the wanted function. Filter lifetime depends on the air quality, if the air quality is good enough the expected lifetime can be increased accordingly.

[0104] Moreover, the data from temperature & relative humidity, and air quality and the presence of the filter can be used to improve the efficiency of the product by running the compressor and the fan speed always at the most efficient working point (AUTOMODE), unless another program like is not chosen. Different running modes can be selected by the user to achieve the wanted dehumidification result:

[0105] Auto for max efficiency

[0106] Max dry for fastest dehumidification

[0107] Sleep mode for quieter operations or,

[0108] Manual.

[0109] The presence of the filter is an extra pressure drop to be taken into account in any of the presented programs. The sensor detecting the presence of the filter has to communicate to the main board to adjust the fan speed accordingly to compensate for the potentially additional pressure drop. Some exemplary control schemes for operating the main unit with and without water tank will now be given.

[0110] In Fig. 29, a flow chart illustrating some steps performed when running the pump of the main unit 200 in accordance with one exemplary embodiment where a water tank is provided on top of the main unit or when the dehumidifier is connected to a draining system with a hose for continuous draining, and there is a lid with a trigger system, replacing the tank and mimicking the signal of the presence of an empty tank. In this exemplary embodiment the dehumidifier is assumed to also have an air filter filtering air by operating a fan drawing air through the air filter. First in a step 1 the operation starts and the program is selected in a step 2. Next, in a step 3, sensor signals are read. Next, in a step 4, it is checked if a water bucket is in place. If no water tank is detected, the pump is stopped in step 5.

[0111] If a water tank is detected in step 4, it is checked if the humidity target is reached in a step 6. If yes, the compressor is stopped in a step 7, and it is checked if there is a filter in step 8. If there is a filter, air quality is checked in step 9. If there is no filter the fan is stopped in step 10.f air quality is good as checked in step 9 the fan is stopped in step 10 else the fan is run in step 11 .

[0112] If In step 6, the humidity target is not reached, the compressor and in some embodiments also the fan is run in a step 12. It is then checked if the water tank is removed in a step 13, if the water tank is removed, step 5 is executed. If the water tank is determined to be in place, it is checked if the bottom tank is full in step 14. If the bottom tank is full, it is checked if the water tank is in place in a step 15 else the procedure returns to step 2.

[0113] If In step 15 the water tank is determined to be in place, the pump is run in a step 16, if not procedure goes to step 5. When the pump is run in step 16, it is checked if the water tank is in place in a step 17, if not the procedure goes to step 5, else it is checked if the bottom tank is full in a step 18. If the bottom tank is full, the procedure returns to step 16 else the pump is stopped in a step 19 and the procedure returns to step 2.

[0114] In Fig. 30, a flow chart illustrating some steps performed when running the pump of the main unit 200 in accordance with one exemplary embodiment where no water tank is provided on top of the main unit and water is instead drained outside the dehumidifier. In this particular embodiment this condition is declared by the user through a continuous draining option selected on the user interface III, and is part of a selected program. In the exemplary embodiment the dehumidifier is assumed to also have an air filter filtering air by operating a fan drawing air through the air filter.

[0115] The procedure starts in a step 21 , next the program is read in a step 22. Next, in a step 23, sensor signals are read. Next, in a step 24, it is checked if the humidity target is reached. If yes the compressor is stopped in a step 25, and it is checked if there is a filter in step 26. If there is a filter, air quality is checked in step 27. If there is no filter the fan is stopped in step 28. If air quality is good as checked in step 27, the fan is stopped in step 28 else the fan is run in step 29.

[0116] If in step 24, the humidity target is not reached, the compressor and in some embodiments also the fan is run in a step 30. Next, in a step 31 , it is checked if the bottom tank is full. If yes, the pump is run in a step 32, else the procedure returns to step 22. When the pump is run it is checked in a step 33 if the bottom tank is empty, if yes the pump is stopped in a step 34 and the procedure returns to step 22, else the procedure returns to step 32.

Claims

25CLAIMS1 . A removable dehumidifier water tank (300) configured to receive water comprising:- a water inlet (370) for receiving water wherein the water inlet (370) is located at a bottom side of the water tank (300), the water tank comprising an upper part (352) and a lower part (354) wherein the upper part of the water tank has a larger lateral extension than the lower part (354) of the water tank (300), the bottom side of the water tank (300) comprising a separatable part (399) that can be separated from the lower part 354 and wherein the water inlet (370) is located in the separatable part (399).

2. The dehumidifier water tank (300) according to claim 1 , wherein the water inlet (370) is located at an off-center position of the bottom side of the water tank.

3. The dehumidifier water tank (300) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein a flexible hose (395) is connected to the water inlet.

4. The dehumidifier water tank (300) according to any of claims 1 - 3, wherein a check valve (393) is located at the water inlet.

5. The dehumidifier water tank (300) according to any one of claims 1 - 4, further comprising a support (366) anchored at the inside of the bottom side of the water tank, the support extending in a vertical direction towards the top of the water tank.

6. The dehumidifier water tank (300) according to claim 5, wherein the inside of the support (366) is divided into two sections, a wet section where a floater (373) is located and a dry section where the water inlet (370) is located.

7. The dehumidifier water tank (300) according to claim 6, wherein the wet section and the dry section are divided by a wall (375).

8. The dehumidifier water tank (300) according to claim 6 or 7, wherein at least one support opening (374) is located in the outer wall of the wet section of the support (366).

9. The dehumidifier water tank (300) according to any one of claims 6 - 8, wherein the support (366) has at least one opening (371 ) at the top side of the wet section of support 366.

10. The dehumidifier water tank (300) according to any one of claims 1 - 9, comprising a floater (373) configured to cooperate with a sensor, wherein the the floater (373) has an umbrella shape, configured to trap an air bubble under its top when the water level rises in the water tank (300).11 . A method of controlling a pump in a dehumidifier, wherein the dehumidifier is configurable with a top water tank located on a topside of the dehumidifier, the method comprising the steps of:Operating the pump to pump water to the top water tank,Checking if the top water tank is present,If the top water tank is determined to not be present stop the pump.

12. The method according to claim 11 , wherein the presence of a water tank is determined based on a sensor output signal.

13. The method according to claim 12, wherein the sensor output signal is obtained from a magnetic switch cooperating with a floater.

14. The method according to any one of claims 11 - 13, further comprising the steps of:- checking if the top water tank is full,- If the top water tank is determined to be full stop the pump.

15. The method according to claim 14, wherein if the top water tank is full is determined based on a sensor output signal.

16. The method according to claim 15, wherein the sensor output signal obtained to determine if the top water tank is full is obtained from the same sensor providing the sensor output signal used to determine the presence of a water tank.

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