Two-tub washing machine with integrated direct drive motor

Abstract

The present invention relates to household washing machines and, in particular, to a washing machine integrated with a direct drive motor and including two washing tubs, and is characterized in that it comprises large tub motor (3) driven by electromagnetic waves generated by the large tub stator and large tub rotor (4) integrated in the main body (1) so as to operate the large tub (2) and small tub (5) independently of each other, and small tub motor (6) driven by electromagnetic waves generated by the small tub stator and small tub rotor (7), stabilizing stones (10) fixed on the front and rear sides to prevent the shaking of the large tub (2), suspensions (9) integrated in the right and left upper corners and right and lower corners of the large tub (2), electronic control unit (12) that allows the speed and direction of the motors to be adjusted, smart sensors that independently determine the amount of load, water level, and temperature in the drums separately.

Description

[0001] TWO-TUB WASHING MACHINE WITH INTEGRATED DIRECT DRIVE MOTOR

[0002] Technical Field:

[0003] The present invention relates to household washing machines and, in particular, relates to a washing machine integrated with a direct drive motor and including two washing tubs.

[0004] State of the Art:

[0005] Washing machines are electrical household appliances designed for washing, rinsing, and spinning clothes, linens, and other textiles. These machines allow users to clean their clothes without physical effort and without wasting time. Thanks to specific programs and water temperature options, it is possible to wash different types of fabrics, so that the clothes become both hygienic and long-lasting.

[0006] Washing machines consist of basic parts such as a tub, motor, electronic control panel, detergent drawer, drum, belt-pulley system, water inflow and drainage systems. The drum is the compartment where the clothes are washed and rotates inside the tub. The electronic control panel allows the user to select the desired washing program. The water inflow system supplies water to the machine, and the drainage system discharges the dirty water. Modern machines can also include energy-saving sensors and automatic dosing systems.

[0007] The belt-pulley system in existing systems is used in washing machines to transmit motor power to the drum. However, this system has some disadvantages. If the belt wears or becomes loose overtime, it can prevent the drum from rotating smoothly and reduce the efficiency of the machine. Furthermore, this system increases vibration and noise. Since it is a mechanism that requires maintenance, it creates extra costs and loss of time for users, and energy efficiency is low.

[0008] Common problems with the single tub washing machines used in the present art include insufficient water drainage, unstable drum operation, and foam residue. Uneven loading can lead to drum shaking and excessive noise. In addition, notcompletely draining the dirty water from the tub can lead to insufficient cleaning of the clothes. Excessive use of detergent in such machines can increase the foaming problem, reducing the quality of the wash and negatively affecting the performance of the appliance.

[0009] The patent application with publication number W02005115216 A1 PCT describes "A washing machine for preventing flood". This invention relates to a washing machine, preferably a dishwasher or a washing machine, in which a float rising with water accumulating in a chamber activates a flood preventing mechanism to prevent floods caused by leakages in the water circulation system, water inflow valve malfunction, or excessive water intake. The flood preventing mechanism includes a lever which, when actuated by the float, triggers the drain switch and the water inflow switch simultaneously.

[0010] The patent application numbered TR200800793 describes "Innovation in washing and spinning machines". This invention is a durable and economical product developed to perform laundry washing and spinning in a shorter time, with less water consumption, and with less energy at the specified capacity.

[0011] The patent application numbered TR200804061 describes "A washing machine". This invention relates to a washing machine in which heat loss from the glass is reduced by a heater during washing programs, preventing the washing water temperature from falling below the target value and thereby improving cleaning performance.

[0012] The patent application with publication number EP2326760 B1 EPC describes "A washing machine". This invention relates to a washing machine comprising a tub in which the laundry is washed, a detergent box in which the cleaning agents are placed, a hose connecting to the tub by extending from the detergent box and allowing water flow from the detergent box to the tub, an opening on the tub to which the hose is connected, and a cover mechanism made of a shape memory material that prevents heat loss through the opening and steam escape from the tub towards the detergent box.

[0013] The patent application with EPC publication number EP2473665B1 describes "A washing machine wherein single-double water inlet conversion is performed". Thisinvention relates to a washing machine produced with a single water inlet and afterwards converted to have double water inlets, comprising a cold water hose for transferring the water from the cold water line to the tub through the detergent box for washing operations, a hot water hose located in the body which allows connection to the hot water line when necessary and which allows the water from the hot water line to be delivered to the tub, and electrical connection cables connected to the hot water valve installed later when the hot water line is activated.

[0014] The above-mentioned patent applications are directed to washing machines. The machines in the systems mentioned have a single tub and do not have any advantage especially for washing small laundry. Therefore, since small laundry is washed in a large tub, it is a disadvantage in terms of electricity, water, and savings. In addition, said systems are costly and difficult to use.

[0015] As a result, there is a need for a new technology which can overcome the disadvantages mentioned above.

[0016] Definition of the Invention:

[0017] This invention aims to improve energy efficiency in washing machines using direct drive motors. Conventional belt and pulley systems have high energy loss. However, direct drive motors minimize energy losses as they rotate the drums directly. High torque generation and optimized magnetic fields ensure a more powerful wash performance with less energy consumption. This reduces energy consumption and offers an environmentally friendly design.

[0018] One of the most important advantages of direct drive motors is their quiet operation. While the movement of belts and pulleys in conventional systems causes noise due to friction, this problem is eliminated by using direct drive motors in this invention. Furthermore, vibrations and noise during operation are significantly reduced thanks to the direct connection between the motor and the drum. This feature enhances comfort, especially in household use.

[0019] Conventional belt drive systems require frequent replacement of wear parts. This creates time and cost disadvantages for users. Direct drive motors, on the other hand,do not have belts or pulleys, eliminating problems such as wear or breakage of these parts. In addition, the motors' advanced cooling systems and integrated thermal fuses prevent the risk of overheating and extend the life of the motor.

[0020] This invention features a two-tub structure that allows two different washing cycles to be performed simultaneously. The main drum and auxiliary drum operate independently of each other and are managed by separate programs. This allows different types or colors of laundry to be washed at the same time, saving both time and ease of use. Furthermore, the use of a small drum for small volume loads prevents wastage of water and energy.

[0021] The electronic control unit in the system ensures precise management of the washing programs. The speed of the motors, the direction of rotation of the drum, and the washing time are automatically adjusted according to the programs selected by the user. Smart sensors continuously monitor the amount of laundry, water level, and temperature. This optimizes the washing process and minimizes energy, water, and detergent use.

[0022] The invention also offers enhanced safety features. Integrated thermal fuses and circuit breakers in the motors protect the motor in case of overheating. Water inflow valves and drainage systems are optimized to prevent leaks. In addition, stabilizing weights and suspension systems used in large tubs reduce vibration and shaking, ensuring safe use.

[0023] The independent mounting of motors and electronic control units for both drums increases the flexibility of the design. Separately optimized water inflow and drainage systems for the upper tub and lower tub save space and make it possible for the device to have a compact structure. This feature is ideal for homes with small spaces.

[0024] The direct drive motors having fewer moving parts in the system significantly reduces the wear rate and ensures long life of the motors. Advanced cooling systems and durable construction components allow the motors to operate at consistently high performance.By optimizing energy and water consumption, this invention reduces the negative impact on the environment. Quiet and vibration-free operation minimizes environmental noise, while low energy consumption reduces carbon footprint. In addition, long-lasting motors and low maintenance requirements offer a sustainable solution by reducing waste.

[0025] Description of the Drawings:

[0026] The invention will be described with reference to the accompanying figures, so that the features of the invention will be more clearly understood and appreciated, however it is not intended to limit the invention to these particular embodiments. On the contrary, it is intended all alternatives, modifications, and equivalences that may be included in the field of the invention as defined by the accompanying claims are within the scope. It should be understood that the details shown are for the sole purpose of illustrating preferred embodiments of the present invention and are intended to provide the most useful and easily understandable description of both the embodiment of the methods and the rules and conceptual features of the invention. In the drawings;

[0027] Fig. 1 is a rearview of the system.

[0028] Fig.2 is a front perspective view of the system.

[0029] The figures which will help understand this invention are numbered as indicated in the accompanying drawing and are given below with their names.

[0030] Description of the References:

[0031] 1. Main body

[0032] 2. Large tub

[0033] 3. Large tub motor

[0034] 4. Large tub rotor

[0035] 5. Small tub

[0036] 6. Small tub motor

[0037] 7. Small tub rotor

[0038] 8. Housing

[0039] 9. Suspension10. Stabilizing stone

[0040] 11. Power cable

[0041] 12. Electronic control unit

[0042] 13. Water valve

[0043] Detailed Description of the Invention:

[0044] The constituent parts of the invention are essentially the main body (1), large tub (2), large tub motor (3), large tub rotor (4), small tub (5), small tub motor (6), small tub rotor (7), housing (8), suspension (9), balance stone (10), power cable (11), electronic control unit (12), and water valve (13).

[0045] There are two tubs in the system. The first is the large tub (2) and the second is the small tub (5). The tubs operate independently of each other, with a large tub stator and large tub rotor (4) integrated into each tub. The stator and rotor constitute the tub motor. Therefore, the large tub (2) is driven by the large tub motor (3). The stator and rotor generate electrical energy through coils accompanied by the electrical energy received. Thus, the motor shaft rotates the tub. Similarly, the small tub (5) has a small tub stator and a small tub rotor integrated into it. The small tub motor (6) with stator and rotor rotates the small tub (5).

[0046] To prevent the shaking of the large tub (2), stabilizing stones (10) are fixed on the front and rear sides. In addition, suspensions (9) are added to the upper and lower corners of the tub in order to dampen the impact effects it would transmit to the body parts while rotating.

[0047] The operating speeds and direction of the motors can be adjusted via the electronic control unit (12) in the system. This adjustment can be performed independently for each tub separately. There can also be many sensors located inside the drum. These sensors can determine the amount of load in the drum, the water level, and water temperature, among other factors.

[0048] The large tub (2) is enclosed by a plastic housing (8) to protect its surroundings. Electricity flow in the system is provided through the power cable (11). The washing water is supplied into the drums from the mains through the water valve (13). There isa fuse system provided in the main body (1) in order to protect the electronic circuits against leakage current, high voltage, etc.

Claims

CLAIMS1. A two-tub washing machine integrated with direct drive motor, characterized in that it comprises:— large tub motor (3) driven by electromagnetic waves generated by the large tub stator and large tub rotor (4) integrated in the main body (1) so as to operate the large tub (2) and small tub (5) independently of each other, and small tub motor (6) driven by electromagnetic waves generated by the small tub stator and small tub rotor (7),— stabilizing stones (10) fixed on the front and rear sides to prevent the shaking of the large tub (2),— suspensions (9) integrated in the right and left upper corners and right and lower corners of the large tub (2),— electronic control unit (12) that allows the speed and direction of the motors to be adjusted,— smart sensors that independently determine the amount of load, water level, and temperature in the drums separately.

2. The two-tub washing machine integrated with direct drive motor according to claim 1, characterized in that it has a plastic housing (8) protecting the large tub (2).

3. The two-tub washing machine integrated with direct drive motor according to claim 1, characterized in that it has a power cable (11) for ensuring the flow of electricity in the system.

4. The two-tub washing machine integrated with direct drive motor according to claim 1 , characterized in that it has a water valve (13) supplying water from the mains to the large tub (2) and the small tub (5).

5. The two-tub washing machine integrated with direct drive motor according to claim 1, characterized in that it has a fuse system protecting the electronic circuit in the system.

Images