Condensate Tank Filtration Layout for Easier Dryer Self-Cleaning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing condensate collection container arrangements in drying devices, such as tumble dryers and washer-dryers, face inefficiencies in condensate cleaning and filter maintenance, with complex filter cleaning processes and unnecessary condensate disposal, leading to reduced filter lifespan and operational issues.
Innovation Solution
The filter is positioned between the drain opening and the self-cleaning device, using a spunbonded nonwoven filter with low flow resistance and a concave design, and equipped with a forced overflow and sensors for overflow detection, allowing only used condensate to pass through and enabling easy filter removal and maintenance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the filter is arranged in the collection container to clean condensate before it enters, then the condensate is cleaned before cleaning the component, but the filter cleaning becomes more complex and condensate may flow through the filter unnecessarily
Solution Approach 1:
The patent inverts the conventional filter placement by positioning the filter in the downpipe after the collection container rather than before it. This reversal allows condensate to first enter the collection container, and only the portion needed for cleaning passes through the filter to the self-cleaning device, simplifying filter maintenance and reducing unnecessary filtration of disposed condensate
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the filter from the collection container structure and places it separately in the downpipe. This separation allows the filter to be independently accessible for maintenance while the collection container can be emptied without removing the filter, reducing the complexity of filter cleaning operations
2Reliability
If the filter is positioned upstream in the collection container, then all condensate is filtered, but condensate that will be disposed of is unnecessarily cleaned, reducing filter lifespan
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies partial action by filtering only the portion of condensate that is actually needed for cleaning the self-cleaning device. The filter is positioned downstream so that condensate can be selectively filtered based on its destination - only the amount required for cleaning passes through the filter, while the rest is disposed of without filtration, extending filter lifespan
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements preliminary action by allowing condensate to first enter the collection container before any filtration occurs. This preliminary collection step enables the system to determine how much condensate needs to be filtered based on actual cleaning requirements, rather than filtering all condensate upfront
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This configuration enhances condensate cleaning efficiency, extends filter lifespan, and provides user-friendly maintenance by ensuring only necessary condensate is used for cleaning, with sensors alerting users to potential clogging or successful operation.
Implementation Method 1
a filter that removes impurities from the condensate before the condensate reaches a self-cleaning device
Implementation Method 2
using a spunbonded nonwoven filter with low flow resistance
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a condensate collecting tank arrangement 1 for a drying apparatus, having a collecting tank 2 for receiving condensate 4 which is separated out in a drying process, the collecting tank having an inlet opening 5 and having an outlet opening 6 for the condensate 4 and having a filter 20 which removes contaminants 24 from the condensate 8 before the condensate 8 passes to a self-cleaning means 14. To further optimize the efficiency of the condensate cleaning action and the service life of the filter, there is provision for the filter 20 to be arranged in the flow path 9 of the condensate 8 between the outflow opening 6 and the self-cleaning means 14.