Condenser and laundry treatment apparatus

Abstract

Disclosed in the embodiments of the present application are a condenser and a laundry treatment apparatus. The condenser comprises a housing assembly and a pressure relief assembly, wherein the housing assembly is provided with a liquid intake cavity, a liquid outlet and a condensation channel, the liquid intake cavity being in communication with the condensation channel via the liquid outlet; condensate can enter the liquid intake cavity and be sprayed through the liquid outlet to form a water mist curtain crossing the condensation channel; the housing assembly is further provided with a pressure relief channel, two ends of the pressure relief channel being respectively in communication with the liquid intake cavity and the exterior of the liquid intake cavity; and at least part of the pressure relief assembly is disposed in the pressure relief channel and is configured to selectively open or block the pressure relief channel. In the condenser in the embodiments of the present application, after blockage occurs at the liquid outlet, the pressure relief assembly can open the pressure relief channel, allowing the condensate in the liquid intake cavity to be discharged through the pressure relief channel, thereby releasing the pressure in the liquid intake cavity. This helps reduce the probability of bursting of a liquid supply line in communication with the liquid intake cavity, thereby helping improve the reliability of the condenser.

Description

A condenser and clothing treatment device

[0001] Cross-reference to related applications

[0002] This application is based on and claims priority to Chinese Patent Application No. 202411732944.8, filed on November 28, 2024, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] This application relates to the field of garment washing and care technology, and in particular to a condenser and garment processing equipment. Background Technology

[0004] Taking a washer-dryer combo as an example, its drying process generally requires the use of a condenser to dehumidify the hot and humid airflow. The working principle of the condenser is as follows: the condensate is sprayed out through the liquid outlet channel of the condenser and exchanges heat with the hot and humid airflow in the condensation channel. The hot and humid air cools down to below the dew point, causing the hot and humid air to precipitate moisture, which is discharged from the condenser along with the condensate. The condensed hot and humid airflow becomes relatively dry and cold air.

[0005] In related technologies, the liquid outlet is prone to blockage, which can lead to problems such as bursting of the liquid supply pipeline connected to the liquid outlet channel, resulting in poor reliability. Summary of the Invention

[0006] In view of this, embodiments of this application aim to provide a condenser and clothing processing device that improves the reliability of the condenser.

[0007] To solve the above problems, the technical solution of this application embodiment is implemented as follows:

[0008] The first aspect of this application provides a condenser, comprising:

[0009] The housing assembly is provided with a liquid inlet chamber, a liquid outlet, and a condensation channel. The liquid inlet chamber is connected to the condensation channel through the liquid outlet. Condensate can enter the liquid inlet chamber and be sprayed through the liquid outlet as a water mist that crosses the condensation channel. The housing assembly is also provided with a pressure relief channel, the two ends of which are respectively connected to the liquid inlet chamber and the outside of the liquid inlet chamber.

[0010] A pressure relief assembly, at least partially disposed within the pressure relief channel, is used to selectively open or close the pressure relief channel.

[0011] In some embodiments, the pressure relief assembly includes a pressure relief valve, at least a portion of which is disposed within the pressure relief channel. The pressure relief valve has a first position and a second position, and the pressure relief valve moves linearly along the axial direction of the pressure relief channel to switch between the first position and the second position.

[0012] In the first position, the pressure relief channel is in an isolated state;

[0013] In the second position, the pressure relief channel is in a conductive state.

[0014] In some embodiments, the pressure relief channel includes a first sub-channel, one end of which is provided with a flow port. The first sub-channel is connected to the liquid inlet chamber through the flow port. The inner wall surface of the first sub-channel includes an annular end face, which surrounds and forms the flow port.

[0015] In the first position, the pressure relief valve abuts against the annular end face and closes the flow port;

[0016] In the second position, there is a gap between the pressure relief valve and the annular end face.

[0017] In some embodiments, the pressure relief valve further includes an elastic reset member. When the pressure relief valve moves from the first position to the second position, the elastic reset member undergoes elastic deformation and then recovers its elastic deformation to push the pressure relief valve from the second position to the first position.

[0018] In some embodiments, the pressure relief valve is provided with an annular groove located within the first sub-channel and extending axially along the first sub-channel. The annular groove is open at one end away from the flow port. One end of the elastic reset member is disposed within the annular groove, and the other end extends axially along the first sub-channel and is disposed on the inner wall of the first sub-channel.

[0019] In some embodiments, the pressure relief channel further includes a second sub-channel communicating with the liquid inlet chamber, the second sub-channel being axially connected to the first sub-channel along the pressure relief channel and communicating through the flow port;

[0020] In the first position, at least a portion of the pressure relief valve extends into the second sub-channel and seals against the side wall of the second sub-channel.

[0021] In some embodiments, the pressure relief assembly further includes a seal, which, in the first position, is sealed between the sidewall of the second sub-channel and the pressure relief valve, and the seal is connected to the sidewall of the second sub-channel or the pressure relief valve.

[0022] In some embodiments, the outer wall of the pressure relief valve is provided with a mounting groove, and the sealing element is fitted into the mounting groove.

[0023] In some embodiments, the housing assembly includes a first sub-shell and a second sub-shell, the first sub-shell and the second sub-shell being mated and defining the condensation channel.

[0024] In some embodiments, the first sub-shell includes a body and a protrusion disposed on the side of the body facing the condensation channel. The housing assembly further includes a third sub-shell, which covers the protrusion and defines the liquid inlet chamber and the pressure relief channel with the protrusion.

[0025] In some embodiments, the protrusion is provided with a first cavity and a second cavity that are in communication with each other, and both the first cavity and the second cavity have an open side;

[0026] The third sub-shell and the inner wall of the first cavity define the liquid inlet cavity, and the third sub-shell and the inner wall of the second cavity define the pressure relief channel.

[0027] In some embodiments, the condensation channel includes a first flow channel and a second flow channel arranged at an angle, the first flow channel extending along the height direction of the condenser and having an air inlet, the second flow channel being located downstream of the first flow channel, and the liquid inlet chamber being located at the top of the first flow channel.

[0028] In some embodiments, the pressure relief channel has a pressure relief port, the axis of which intersects the height direction of the condenser.

[0029] In some embodiments, the inner wall of the condensation channel is provided with guide ribs, which extend in a zigzag pattern along the height direction of the condenser. The pressure relief port faces the guide ribs, and the guide ribs are used to guide the flow of condensate sprayed through the pressure relief port.

[0030] A second aspect of this application provides a garment processing device, which includes a drum assembly and a condenser as described in any of the above embodiments, wherein the condenser is disposed on the drum assembly.

[0031] In this embodiment of the condenser, when condensate can be normally ejected from the outlet, the pressure relief component blocks the pressure relief channel. The condensate in the inlet chamber will not flow out from the pressure relief channel, but will instead be ejected from the outlet. This ensures the pressure at the outlet, facilitating the formation of a water mist surface within the condensation channel. The water mist surface can filter lint and lint to a certain extent, and has a larger contact area with the humid and hot airflow, resulting in better heat exchange. If the outlet becomes blocked, the pressure relief component opens the pressure relief channel, allowing the condensate in the inlet chamber to be discharged through the pressure relief channel. This releases the pressure in the inlet chamber, thereby reducing the probability of the liquid supply pipeline connected to the inlet chamber bursting, and thus improving the reliability of the condenser. Attached Figure Description

[0032] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of the structure of a condenser according to an embodiment of this application;

[0033] Figure 2 is a structural schematic diagram of the condenser shown in Figure 1 from another perspective, in which the second sub-shell is not shown;

[0034] Figure 3 is a schematic diagram of the cross-sectional structure along section AA in Figure 2;

[0035] Figure 4 is an enlarged view of point B in Figure 3;

[0036] Figure 5 is an exploded view of the first subshell and the third subshell according to an embodiment of this application;

[0037] Figure 6 is a schematic diagram of the structure of a pressure relief valve according to an embodiment of this application;

[0038] Figure 7 is an exploded view of a pressure relief valve and a seal according to an embodiment of this application. Detailed Implementation

[0039] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of the embodiments of this application clearer, the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application will be clearly described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. The following embodiments are only used to more clearly illustrate the technical solutions of this application, and are therefore only examples, and should not be used to limit the scope of protection of this application. All other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art based on the embodiments of this application without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this application.

[0040] In the description of the embodiments of this application, technical terms such as "first," "second," and "third" are used only to distinguish different objects and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number, specific order, or primary and secondary relationship of the indicated technical features. In the description of the embodiments of this application, "multiple" means two or more, unless otherwise explicitly defined.

[0041] In this document, the term "embodiment" means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with an embodiment may be included in at least one embodiment of this application. The appearance of this phrase in various places throughout the specification does not necessarily refer to the same embodiment, nor is it a separate or alternative embodiment mutually exclusive with other embodiments. It will be explicitly and implicitly understood by those skilled in the art that the embodiments described herein can be combined with other embodiments.

[0042] In the description of the embodiments in this application, the term "and / or" is merely a description of the relationship between related objects, indicating that three relationships can exist. For example, A and / or B can represent: A existing alone, A and B existing simultaneously, and B existing alone. Additionally, the character " / " in this document generally indicates that the preceding and following related objects are in an "or" relationship.

[0043] In the description of the embodiments of this application, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, technical terms such as "installation," "connection," "joining," and "fixing" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral part; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; they can refer to the internal communication of two components or the interaction between two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in the embodiments of this application according to the specific circumstances.

[0044] In the description of the embodiments of this application, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, the technical term "contact" should be interpreted broadly, and can be direct contact, contact through an intermediate medium layer, contact between two contacting parties with substantially no interaction force, or contact between two contacting parties with interaction force.

[0045] The present application will now be described in further detail with reference to the accompanying drawings and specific embodiments.

[0046] This application provides a garment processing device, which includes a drum assembly and a condenser according to any embodiment of this application.

[0047] Clothing processing equipment may include, for example, dryers, washer-dryer combos, etc., and this application does not limit it.

[0048] The drum assembly has a garment processing chamber inside, where clothes undergo washing, dehydration, or drying processes.

[0049] The condenser is disposed on the tubular assembly. Exemplarily, the tubular assembly may include an inner tub and an outer tub, the inner tub having a garment handling chamber and being rotatably supported within the outer tub, and the condenser being disposed on the outer tub.

[0050] The condenser is used to dehumidify the hot and humid airflow generated in the garment processing chamber. Its working principle is as follows: condensate is introduced into the condenser. The hot and humid airflow from the garment processing chamber enters the condenser and exchanges heat with the condensate. The hot and humid air cools down to below its dew point, causing moisture to precipitate out and be discharged from the condenser along with the condensate. The condensed hot and humid airflow becomes relatively dry and cool air.

[0051] There is no limitation on the specific type of condensate. For example, the condensate can be water.

[0052] Downstream of the condenser is a heating channel. The space of the heating channel and the internal space of the condenser together form the drying tunnel of the garment processing equipment. The heating channel is equipped with a fan and a heater. The dry cold air flowing out of the condenser flows through the heater, which heats the dry cold air and turns it into dry hot air. The dry hot air returns to the garment processing chamber to dry the clothes. In this way, the airflow circulates between the garment processing chamber and the drying tunnel to achieve continuous drying of the clothes. The fan provides power for the airflow circulation.

[0053] It's understandable that airflow may carry lint from clothing into the drying duct during its circulation. If no filter is installed in the duct, the lint will adhere and clog it, and over time, bacteria will grow. Even if a filter is installed to remove lint from the airflow, it's difficult to remove and clean it because it's inside the duct. Even if it is cleaned inside the duct, the cleaning solution may not evenly cover the filter, so some lint may remain on the filter and eventually clog the duct, reducing airflow and affecting drying efficiency.

[0054] In view of this, the present application also provides a condenser. Please refer to FIG1. ​​FIG1 is a schematic diagram of the structure of a condenser according to an embodiment of the present application. The condenser includes a housing assembly 10 and a pressure relief assembly 20.

[0055] The housing assembly 10 is provided with an inlet chamber 10a, an outlet 13c and a condensation channel 10b. The inlet chamber 10a is connected to the condensation channel 10b through the outlet 13c. The condensate can enter the inlet chamber 10a and be sprayed through the outlet 13c as a water mist that crosses the condensation channel 10b.

[0056] It should be noted that the specific structure forming the liquid outlet 13c is not limited. For example, the housing assembly is provided with a liquid outlet channel 13a, one end of which is the liquid outlet 13c, and the other end of the liquid outlet channel 13a is connected to the liquid inlet chamber 10a.

[0057] The truncated condensation channel 10b refers to a state where the water mist surface and the extension direction of the condensation channel are not parallel. In this way, when the airflow passes through the location of the water mist surface, at least a portion of the airflow can pass through the water mist surface.

[0058] The condensation channel 10b is where the hot and humid airflow and the condensate exchange heat. The condensation channel 10b is connected to the clothing processing chamber, and the hot and humid airflow in the clothing processing chamber enters the condensation channel 10b and is dehumidified within the condensation channel 10b.

[0059] During use, the garment processing equipment supplies condensate to the condenser through a liquid supply line. Specifically, the liquid supply line is connected to the liquid inlet chamber 10a. After the condensate flows out of the liquid supply line, it passes through the liquid inlet chamber 10a and the liquid outlet channel 13a in sequence and enters the condensation channel 10b.

[0060] Both the liquid inlet chamber 10a and the liquid outlet channel 13a are part of the flow path of the condensate, and the liquid outlet 13c is located inside the condensation channel 10b.

[0061] Inside the condensation channel 10b, the liquid outlet 13c sprays out the condensate and forms it into a large number of tiny particles. These tiny particles form a certain volume shape, and the surface of this volume shape is called the water mist surface.

[0062] When a humid, hot airflow carrying lint passes over a water mist surface, the humid, hot airflow exchanges heat with the condensate that forms the water mist surface. In related technologies, the condensate flows in a single or multiple columnar shape within the condenser, resulting in a relatively small heat exchange area between the condensate and the humid, hot airflow, leading to low heat exchange efficiency and affecting the drying efficiency of clothes. However, the condenser in this embodiment can spray the condensate out and present it as a water mist surface that crosses the condensation channel 10b. The surface area of ​​the water mist surface is relatively large, meaning that the heat exchange area with the humid, hot airflow is also relatively large, thereby improving the heat exchange efficiency between the condensate and the humid, hot airflow, and thus improving the drying efficiency of the clothes processing equipment.

[0063] Furthermore, the lint in the humid airflow is slowed down, moistened, and weighted, preventing it from moving forward with the airflow. In other words, the water mist surface also filters the circulating airflow within the garment processing equipment, thereby reducing the possibility of lint remaining in the drying tunnel, ensuring sufficient airflow within the tunnel, and ultimately improving the drying efficiency of the garment processing equipment.

[0064] Understandably, since the water mist surface also functions as a filter, there's no need to install filters inside the drying tunnel to remove lint. Furthermore, cleaning the filters is no longer required, eliminating the need for cleaning components. This results in fewer components in the garment processing equipment, which helps improve both production costs and efficiency.

[0065] It should be noted that the cross-sectional area of ​​the inlet chamber 10a, which is perpendicular to the axial direction of the outlet channel 13a, can be larger than that of the outlet channel 13a. On one hand, since the condensate in the supply pipe first enters the inlet chamber 10a, and the cross-sectional area of ​​the inlet chamber 10a is relatively large, it facilitates the entry of condensate. The pressure at the connection between the supply pipe and the inlet chamber 10a is relatively low, which helps reduce the risk of the supply pipe detaching from the condenser. On the other hand, since the condensate enters the condensation channel 10b after passing through the outlet pipe, and the cross-sectional area of ​​the outlet channel 13a is relatively small, it helps increase the pressure of the condensate sprayed out of the outlet channel 13a. This facilitates the condensate spraying out as a water mist, resulting in a larger contact area between the water mist and the humid airflow, higher heat exchange efficiency, and thus, better dehumidification of the condenser.

[0066] The specific shape of the condensation channel 10b is not limited. For example, referring to Figure 1, the condensation channel 10b includes a first flow channel 10b1 and a second flow channel 10b2 arranged at an angle. The first flow channel 10b1 extends along the height direction of the condenser and has an air inlet. The second flow channel 10b2 is located downstream of the first flow channel 10b1. Airflow from the garment processing chamber enters the first flow channel 10b1 through the air inlet.

[0067] It should be noted that when the condenser is used in the garment processing equipment, the height direction of the condenser is consistent with the height direction of the garment processing equipment. Specifically, the height direction of the condenser is shown as "H" in Figure 1 or Figure 2.

[0068] Along the flow path of the airflow within the condensation channel 10b, the liquid outlet 13c can be located within the first flow channel 10b1. Since the first flow channel 10b1 and the second flow channel 10b2 are set at an angle, it is more difficult for the condensate and the condensate formed by the condensation of the hot and humid airflow to enter the second flow channel 10b2 located downstream of this flow path.

[0069] Understandably, the humid, hot airflow passes through the condenser to form dry, cold air. This dry, cold air then enters the heating channel and is heated by the heater to form dry, hot air. This dry, hot air then returns to the garment processing chamber to dry the clothes. In other words, by configuring the condensation channel 10b with two sections, including a first flow channel 10b1 and a second flow channel 10b2, the probability of condensate and condensed water from the humid, hot airflow entering the heating channel is reduced. The heat generated by the heater can then be used more effectively to heat the air entering the heating channel, thereby improving the drying efficiency of the clothes.

[0070] The liquid inlet chamber 10a is located at the top of the first flow channel 10b1. This facilitates the placement of the liquid outlet 13c at the top of the first flow channel 10b1. After leaving the area where the water mist surface is located, the condensate can flow downwards under the influence of gravity, thus continuing to flow a certain distance within the first flow channel 10b1. During this flow, the condensate can also dehumidify the hot and humid airflow, thereby improving the dehumidification effect of the condenser.

[0071] It should be noted that there are no restrictions on the specific manner in which the housing assembly 10 defines the condensation channel 10b.

[0072] For example, referring to FIG1, the housing assembly 10 includes a first sub-shell 11 and a second sub-shell 12, which are mated together to define a condensation channel 10b.

[0073] In this way, the condensation channel 10b is formed by a portion of the wall of the first sub-shell 11 and a portion of the wall of the second sub-shell 12. The first sub-shell 11 and the second sub-shell 12 can be formed separately and are easy to demold, which helps to reduce the forming difficulty of the condensation channel 10b.

[0074] The housing assembly 10 is also provided with a pressure relief channel 10c, the two ends of which are connected to the liquid inlet chamber 10a and the outside of the liquid inlet chamber 10a, respectively. At least a portion of the pressure relief assembly 20 is disposed in the pressure relief channel 10c for selectively opening or closing the pressure relief channel 10c.

[0075] In related technologies, in order to facilitate the formation of a water mist from the condensate sprayed through the outlet, the diameter of the outlet is generally set to be relatively small. During long-term use, the outlet may become blocked. When the outlet is blocked, the condensate in the inlet chamber cannot be discharged to achieve the condensation effect. When the inlet chamber is full of condensate, the condensate in the supply pipeline cannot enter the inlet chamber, which prevents the pressure inside the supply pipeline from being released. This may lead to the supply pipeline bursting, posing a safety risk and resulting in relatively poor reliability of the condenser.

[0076] It should be noted that the technical solutions provided in the above-mentioned related technologies are intended to provide background or context for the implementation of this application. The description herein does not imply that it is prior art simply because it is included in this section.

[0077] In the condenser of this embodiment, when condensate can be normally ejected from the outlet 13c, the pressure relief component 20 isolates the pressure relief channel 10c. The condensate in the inlet chamber 10a will not flow out from the pressure relief channel 10c, but will be ejected from the outlet 13c. Thus, the pressure of the outlet 13c can be guaranteed, which facilitates the formation of a water mist surface in the condensation channel 10b. The water mist surface can filter lint and lint to a certain extent, and has a larger contact area with the humid and hot airflow, resulting in better heat exchange. When the outlet 13c becomes blocked, the pressure relief component 20 opens the pressure relief channel 10c, and the condensate in the inlet chamber 10a is discharged through the pressure relief channel 10c. The pressure in the inlet chamber 10a can be released, which helps to reduce the probability of the liquid supply pipeline connected to the inlet chamber 10a bursting, thereby improving the reliability of the condenser.

[0078] It should be noted that the specific location referred to as "outside the liquid inlet chamber 10a" is not limited.

[0079] For example, "the outside of the liquid inlet chamber 10a" can be the outside of the condenser, that is, the condensate discharged through the pressure relief channel 10c is directly discharged to the outside of the condenser.

[0080] For example, the "exterior of the liquid inlet chamber 10a" can also be inside the condensation channel 10b. In this way, the condensate discharged from the pressure relief channel 10c can still enter the condensation channel 10b, thereby dehumidifying the hot and humid airflow, which helps to ensure the dehumidification effect of the condenser on the hot and humid airflow.

[0081] The specific structure of the first subshell 11 is not limited.

[0082] For example, referring to FIG5, the first sub-shell 11 includes a body 111 and a protrusion 112 provided on the side of the body 111 facing the condensation channel 10b. The housing assembly 10 also includes a third sub-shell 13, which covers the protrusion 112 and defines the protrusion 112 to form a liquid inlet chamber 10a and a pressure relief channel 10c.

[0083] The body 111 and the protrusion 112 can be integrally formed; of course, they can also be separate structures. The body 111 and the protrusion 112 of the separate structure can be assembled to obtain the first subshell 11.

[0084] In this embodiment, both the liquid inlet cavity 10a and the pressure relief channel 10c are defined by the protrusion 112 and the third sub-shell 13. That is, the protrusion 112 and the third sub-shell 13 can be formed separately, and the demolding difficulty is relatively low. Therefore, it is beneficial to reduce the forming difficulty of the liquid inlet cavity 10a and the pressure relief channel 10c.

[0085] In one embodiment, referring to Figures 3 and 5, the protrusion 112 is provided with a first cavity 112a and a second cavity 112b that are interconnected. Both the first cavity 112a and the second cavity 112b have an open side. The third sub-shell 13 defines a liquid inlet cavity 10a with the inner wall of the first cavity 112a and a pressure relief channel 10c with the inner wall of the second cavity 112b.

[0086] For example, the open sides of the first cavity 112a and the second cavity 112b are located on the same side. Thus, the third sub-shell 13 can be flat and simultaneously cover the open sides of the first cavity 112a and the second cavity 112b, making the structure of the third sub-shell 13 simpler.

[0087] In this embodiment, the mold can leave the first cavity 112a through the open side of the first cavity 112a, and can also leave the second cavity 112b through the open side of the second cavity 112b, making the demolding of the first sub-shell 11 relatively easy.

[0088] The specific structure of the pressure relief assembly 20 is not limited.

[0089] In one embodiment, referring to Figures 2 to 4, the pressure relief assembly 20 includes a pressure relief valve 21.

[0090] At least a portion of the pressure relief valve 21 is located within the pressure relief passage 10c. That is, the pressure relief valve 21 may be completely located within the pressure relief passage 10c, or it may be partially located within the pressure relief passage 10c and partially located outside the pressure relief passage 10c.

[0091] The pressure relief valve 21 has a first position and a second position. In the first position, the pressure relief passage 10c is in an isolated state. In the second position, the pressure relief passage 10c is in a conductive state.

[0092] In the first position, the condensate in the liquid inlet chamber 10a cannot be discharged through the pressure relief channel 10c; in the second position, the condensate in the liquid inlet chamber 10a can be discharged through the pressure relief channel 10c.

[0093] In some embodiments, the pressure relief valve 21 moves linearly along the axial direction of the pressure relief channel 10c to switch between a first position and a second position. That is, the direction of movement of the pressure relief valve 21 is approximately parallel to the direction of flow of the condensate within the pressure relief channel 10c, thereby allowing the pressure relief valve 21 to switch from one of the first and second positions to the other by means of the pressure of the condensate.

[0094] Specifically, referring to Figures 3 and 4, the pressure relief valve 21 is in the first position under the action of other components. These other components can be, for example, the elastic reset element 22. The following example uses the elastic reset element 22 as an example:

[0095] When the liquid outlet channel 13a can normally spray out condensate, the pressure of the condensate inside the liquid inlet chamber 10a is insufficient to overcome the force of the elastic reset member 22 on the pressure relief valve 21. The pressure relief valve 21 can be relatively stably located in the first position, and the pressure relief channel 10c is in an isolated state. However, after the liquid outlet channel 13a becomes blocked, as the pressure of the condensate in the liquid inlet chamber 10a gradually increases, when the pressure of the condensate increases to exceed the force of the elastic reset member 22 on the pressure relief valve 21, the pressure relief valve 21 gradually moves to the second position, the pressure relief channel 10c is in a conductive state, the condensate is discharged through the pressure relief channel 10c, and the pressure inside the liquid inlet chamber 10a is released, thereby reducing the probability of the liquid supply pipeline bursting.

[0096] In this embodiment, the movement mode of the pressure relief valve 21 when switching between opening the pressure relief channel 10c and closing the pressure relief channel 10c is relatively simple. The probability of interference with other structures when the pressure relief valve 21 moves along the axial direction of the pressure relief channel 10c is low, which helps to improve the reliability of the pressure relief valve 21.

[0097] In other embodiments, the pressure relief valve 21 can also be a double-door structure, and a pressure sensor can be installed in the pressure relief channel 10c. When the pressure is detected to be greater than a certain value, the double-door structure is controlled to open, thus the pressure relief channel 10c is in a conductive state; when the pressure is detected to be less than a certain value, the double-door structure is controlled to close, thus the pressure relief channel 10c is in an isolated state.

[0098] In one embodiment, referring to Figures 2 to 4, the pressure relief channel 10c includes a first sub-channel 10c1. One end of the first sub-channel 10c1 is provided with a flow port 10c2. The first sub-channel 10c1 communicates with the liquid inlet chamber 10a through the flow port 10c2. The inner wall surface of the first sub-channel 10c1 includes an annular end face 112c, which surrounds the flow port 10c2.

[0099] In the first position, the pressure relief valve 21 abuts against the annular end face 112c and closes the flow port 10c2.

[0100] In the second position, there is a gap between the pressure relief valve 21 and the annular end face 112c.

[0101] In this way, during the linear axial movement of the pressure relief valve 21 along the pressure relief channel 10c, it can switch between contacting and separating from the annular end face 112c, thereby realizing the opening and closing of the pressure relief valve 21. This structure is relatively simple and easy to implement.

[0102] Understandably, the diameter of the outlet 10c2 is relatively smaller than the diameter of the first sub-channel 10c1, and a gap is provided between the peripheral wall of the pressure relief valve 21 and the peripheral wall of the first sub-channel 10c1. For example, a groove can be provided on the peripheral wall of the pressure relief valve 21 or the side wall of the first sub-channel 10c1, with the groove extending axially along the first sub-channel 10c1, thus forming the gap between the peripheral wall of the pressure relief valve 21 and the peripheral wall of the first sub-channel 10c1. In the second position, the condensate flows through the annular end face 112c and then flows out of the first sub-channel 10c1 through this gap.

[0103] Furthermore, a gap is formed between the peripheral wall of the pressure relief valve 21 and the peripheral wall of the first sub-channel 10c1 through a groove, and the peripheral wall of the first sub-channel 10c1 and the peripheral wall of the pressure relief valve 21 are roughly in contact. This helps to reduce the probability of the pressure relief valve 21 shaking in the first sub-channel 10c1 along the radial direction of the first sub-channel 10c1.

[0104] It should be noted that "roughly in a state of contact" means that one of them can slide on the surface of the other.

[0105] In one embodiment, referring to Figures 2 to 4, the pressure relief valve 21 further includes an elastic reset member 22. When the pressure relief valve 21 moves from the first position to the second position, the elastic reset member 22 undergoes elastic deformation and then recovers its elastic deformation to push the pressure relief valve 21 from the second position to the first position.

[0106] The specific type of the elastic reset element 22 is not limited. For example, it can be a compression spring, a tension spring, etc.

[0107] When the condensate pressure in the liquid inlet chamber 10a is high, the condensate can push the pressure relief valve 21 from the first position to the second position. At this time, the elastic reset member 22 will undergo elastic deformation. When the pressure inside the liquid inlet chamber 10a is reduced to a level that is insufficient to overcome the elastic force of the elastic reset member 22, the elastic reset member 22 can gradually push the pressure relief valve 21 back to the first position. In this way, the pressure relief valve 21 can automatically open and close the pressure relief channel 10c. Moreover, this structure is relatively simple and easy to implement.

[0108] In this embodiment, the annular end face 112c can also provide a certain blocking effect on the pressure relief valve 21. When the pressure relief valve 21 moves from the second position to the first position, the annular end face 112c blocks the pressure relief valve 21, and the pressure relief valve 21 can just move to the first position.

[0109] The mounting structure of the elastic reset element 22 is not restricted.

[0110] In one embodiment, referring to Figures 2 to 4 and Figure 6, the pressure relief valve 21 is provided with an annular groove 21a. The annular groove 21a is located in the first sub-channel 10c1 and extends along the axial direction of the first sub-channel 10c1. One end of the annular groove 21a away from the flow port 10c2 is open. One end of the elastic reset member 22 is located in the annular groove 21a, and the other end extends along the axial direction of the first sub-channel 10c1 and is located on the inner wall of the first sub-channel 10c1.

[0111] Here, the other end of the elastic reset member 22 abuts against the third sub-shell 13, that is, the third sub-shell 13 constitutes part of the inner wall of the first sub-channel 10c1.

[0112] It is understood that in this embodiment, the elastic reset member 22 is a compression spring.

[0113] Here, a first guide post 21b is formed on the inner side of the annular groove 21a, and the outer wall of the first guide post 21b is the radially inner side wall of the annular groove 21a. One end of the elastic reset member 22 is sleeved on the first guide post 21b. The first guide post 21b facilitates the installation of the elastic reset member 22 on the pressure relief valve 21. At the same time, it can also guide the elastic deformation direction of the elastic reset member 22, reducing the probability of the elastic reset member 22 swaying in its radial direction, thus improving the reliability of the elastic reset member 22.

[0114] The radially outer sidewall of the annular groove 21a can also guide the elastic deformation direction of the elastic reset member 22 and reduce the risk of the elastic reset member 22 swaying radially.

[0115] Further, please refer to Figure 4. The inner wall of the first sub-channel 10c1 protrudes towards the pressure relief valve 21 to form the second guide post 13b. The other end of the elastic reset member 22 is sleeved on the second guide post 13b. The function of the second guide post 13b is similar to that of the first guide post 21b, and will not be described again here.

[0116] Understandably, the first guide post 21b and the second guide post 13b work together to ensure that both ends of the elastic reset member 22 have high stability, thereby further improving the reliability of the pressure relief assembly 20.

[0117] In one embodiment, referring to Figures 2 to 4, the pressure relief channel 10c further includes a second sub-channel 10c3 that communicates with the liquid inlet chamber 10a. The second sub-channel 10c3 is axially connected to the first sub-channel 10c1 along the pressure relief channel 10c and is connected through the flow port 10c2. In the first position, at least a portion of the pressure relief valve 21 extends into the second sub-channel 10c3 and is sealed to the side wall of the second sub-channel 10c3.

[0118] In this embodiment, at least two seals are formed between the pressure relief valve 21 and the side wall of the pressure relief channel 10c. The first seal is an abutment seal between the annular end face 112c and the pressure relief valve 21, and the second seal is a seal between the pressure relief valve 21 and the side wall of the second sub-channel 10c3. Therefore, in the first position, the pressure relief valve 21 has a better isolation effect on the pressure relief channel 10c, which helps reduce the possibility of condensate flowing out through the pressure relief channel 10c. The pressure at the outlet of the liquid outlet channel 13a is higher, and the condensate sprayed out through the outlet of the liquid outlet channel 13a is more likely to form a water mist surface.

[0119] In one embodiment, referring to Figures 2 to 4 and Figure 7, the pressure relief assembly 20 further includes a seal 23. In the first position, the seal 23 is sandwiched between the side wall of the second sub-channel 10c3 and the pressure relief valve 21, and the seal 23 is connected to the side wall of the second sub-channel 10c3 or the pressure relief valve 21.

[0120] The shape of the seal 23 is not limited. For example, it can be a ring-shaped seal.

[0121] The material of the seal 23 is not limited. For example, it can be rubber, silicone, etc.

[0122] In this embodiment, by providing a sealing element 23, the sealing effect between the pressure relief valve 21 and the second sub-channel 10c3 can be improved.

[0123] In the first position, the seal 23 can be press-fitted with the side wall of the second sub-channel 10c3, which helps to further improve the sealing effect between the pressure relief valve 21 and the second sub-channel 10c3.

[0124] In other embodiments, a sealing element 23 can also be provided at the contact point between the annular end face 112c and the pressure relief valve 21. That is, a sealing element 23 is sandwiched at the contact point between the annular end face 112c and the pressure relief valve 21 for sealing, which is beneficial to improving the sealing effect between the annular end face 112c and the pressure relief valve 21.

[0125] In one embodiment, please refer to Figure 7, the outer wall of the pressure relief valve 21 is provided with a mounting groove 21c, and the sealing element 23 is fitted into the mounting groove 21c.

[0126] It is understood that in this embodiment, the seal 23 is provided on the pressure relief valve 21, that is, when the pressure relief valve 21 moves linearly between the first position and the second position, the seal 23 also produces a linear displacement.

[0127] Here, the seal 23 is sleeved on the pressure relief valve 21. Since the seal 23 itself has a certain elasticity, the sleeved installation structure of the seal 23 is beneficial to improving its installation stability.

[0128] The mounting groove 21c can limit the sealing element 23 to a certain extent, so that the sealing element 23 will not be displaced on the pressure relief valve 21 along its axial direction. In this way, it is easy to achieve an interference seal fit between the sealing element 23 and the side wall of the second sub-channel 10c3.

[0129] In some embodiments, referring to Figure 2, the pressure relief channel 10c has a pressure relief port 10c4, the axis of which intersects the height direction of the condenser.

[0130] The condensate ejected from the pressure relief port 10c4 flows in a parabolic trajectory under the influence of gravity.

[0131] In this way, the initial velocity component of the condensate ejected through the pressure relief port 10c4 is smaller in the direction of gravity, and the time required for the condensate to be ejected from the outlet 13c and flow to the bottom of the condensation channel 10b is longer. As a result, this part of the condensate has a longer time to exchange heat with the humid airflow, which is beneficial to improving the dehumidification effect of the condenser.

[0132] It should be noted that there is no restriction on the angle at which the pressure relief port 10c4 intersects with the height direction of the condenser.

[0133] For example, referring to Figure 2, the pressure relief port 10c4 is orthogonal to the height direction of the condenser. This ensures that the initial velocity component of the condensate ejected through the pressure relief port 10c4 in the direction of gravity is zero, thereby maximizing the flow time of the condensate within the condensation channel 10b. Furthermore, this portion of the condensate will not have an initial velocity upwards along the height direction of the condenser, thus preventing it from entering the heating channel. The heat generated by the heater can then be used more effectively to heat the airflow, thereby improving the drying efficiency of the clothing processing equipment.

[0134] In some embodiments, please refer to Figures 2 and 5. The inner wall of the condensation channel 10b is provided with guide ribs 111a. The guide ribs 111a extend in a zigzag manner along the height direction of the condenser. The pressure relief port 10c4 faces the guide ribs 111a. The guide ribs 111a are used to guide the flow of condensate sprayed out through the pressure relief port 10c.

[0135] In this way, the condensate sprayed out through the pressure relief port 10c4 flows along the guide rib 111a, which helps to increase the length of the flow path and the flow time of this part of the condensate in the condensation channel 10b. This increases the heat exchange time between this part of the condensate and the humid airflow, thereby improving the condensation effect of the condenser.

[0136] The above embodiments are merely illustrative of the technical solutions of this application and are not intended to limit it. Although this application has been described in detail with reference to the foregoing embodiments, those skilled in the art should understand that modifications can still be made to the technical solutions described in the foregoing embodiments, or equivalent substitutions can be made to some or all of the technical features therein. These modifications or substitutions do not cause the essence of the corresponding technical solutions to deviate from the scope of the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application, and they should all be covered within the scope of the claims and specification of this application. In particular, as long as there is no structural conflict, the various technical features mentioned in the embodiments can be combined in any way. This application is not limited to the specific embodiments disclosed herein, but includes all technical solutions falling within the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A condenser, comprising: The housing assembly is provided with a liquid inlet chamber, a liquid outlet, and a condensation channel. The liquid inlet chamber is connected to the condensation channel through the liquid outlet. The condensate enters the liquid inlet chamber and is sprayed out through the liquid outlet as a water mist that crosses the condensation channel. The housing assembly is also provided with a pressure relief channel, the two ends of which are respectively connected to the liquid inlet chamber and the outside of the liquid inlet chamber. A pressure relief assembly, at least partially disposed within the pressure relief channel, is used to selectively open or close the pressure relief channel.

2. The condenser according to claim 1, wherein, The pressure relief assembly includes a pressure relief valve, at least a portion of which is disposed within the pressure relief channel. The pressure relief valve has a first position and a second position, and the pressure relief valve moves linearly along the axial direction of the pressure relief channel to switch between the first position and the second position. In the first position, the pressure relief channel is in an isolated state; In the second position, the pressure relief channel is in a conductive state.

3. The condenser according to claim 2, wherein, The pressure relief channel includes a first sub-channel, one end of which is provided with a flow port. The first sub-channel is connected to the liquid inlet chamber through the flow port. The inner wall surface of the first sub-channel includes an annular end face, which surrounds and forms the flow port. In the first position, the pressure relief valve abuts against the annular end face and closes the flow port; In the second position, there is a gap between the pressure relief valve and the annular end face.

4. The condenser according to claim 3, wherein, The pressure relief valve further includes an elastic reset member. When the pressure relief valve moves from the first position to the second position, the elastic reset member undergoes elastic deformation and then recovers its elastic deformation to push the pressure relief valve from the second position to the first position.

5. The condenser according to claim 4, wherein, The pressure relief valve is provided with an annular groove, which is located in the first sub-channel and extends along the axial direction of the first sub-channel. The end of the annular groove away from the flow port is open. One end of the elastic reset member is located in the annular groove, and the other end extends along the axial direction of the first sub-channel and is located on the inner wall of the first sub-channel.

6. The condenser according to any one of claims 3-5, wherein, The pressure relief channel further includes a second sub-channel communicating with the liquid inlet chamber. The second sub-channel is axially connected to the first sub-channel along the pressure relief channel and is connected through the flow port. In the first position, at least a portion of the pressure relief valve extends into the second sub-channel and seals against the side wall of the second sub-channel.

7. The condenser according to claim 6, wherein, The pressure relief assembly also includes a seal. In the first position, the seal is sandwiched between the side wall of the second sub-channel and the pressure relief valve, and the seal is connected to the side wall of the second sub-channel or the pressure relief valve.

8. The condenser according to claim 7, wherein, The pressure relief valve has an installation groove on its outer side wall, and the sealing element is fitted into the installation groove.

9. The condenser according to any one of claims 1-8, wherein, The housing assembly includes a first sub-shell and a second sub-shell, which are mated together to define the condensation channel.

10. The condenser according to claim 9, wherein, The first sub-shell includes a body and a protrusion on the side of the body facing the condensation channel. The housing assembly also includes a third sub-shell, which covers the protrusion and defines the liquid inlet chamber and the pressure relief channel.

11. The condenser according to claim 10, wherein, The protrusion is provided with a first cavity and a second cavity that are interconnected, and both the first cavity and the second cavity have an open side; The third sub-shell and the inner wall of the first cavity define the liquid inlet cavity, and the third sub-shell and the inner wall of the second cavity define the pressure relief channel.

12. The condenser according to any one of claims 1-11, wherein, The condensation channel includes a first flow channel and a second flow channel arranged at an angle. The first flow channel extends along the height direction of the condenser and has an air inlet. The second flow channel is located downstream of the first flow channel, and the liquid inlet chamber is located at the top of the first flow channel.

13. The condenser according to any one of claims 1-12, wherein, The pressure relief channel has a pressure relief port, and the axial direction of the pressure relief port intersects with the height direction of the condenser.

14. The condenser according to claim 13, wherein, The inner wall of the condensation channel is provided with guide ribs, which extend in a zigzag pattern along the height of the condenser. The pressure relief port faces the guide ribs, and the guide ribs are used to guide the flow of condensate sprayed out through the pressure relief port.

15. A garment processing apparatus, the garment processing apparatus comprising a drum assembly and a condenser as described in any one of claims 1-14, the condenser being disposed on the drum assembly.

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