Dryer Lint Filter Cleaning With Auger-Based Collection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Laundry dryer lint filters require frequent manual cleaning to prevent lint buildup and airflow interference, which is inconvenient for users.
Innovation Solution
An automatic lint filter cleaning and collection system that includes a pivotable filter housing, a drive assembly to pivot and release the filter, and an auger to transfer lint from a collection chamber to a removable container, allowing for automated lint removal and collection after each drying cycle.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual cleaning of lint filter is required after each drying cycle, then lint buildup is prevented and airflow is maintained, but user convenience deteriorates and operation complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables self-service by automatically cleaning the lint filter through a drive assembly that pivots the filter housing to strike against a flange, dislodging lint into a collection chamber where an auger transports it to a collection container, eliminating the need for manual user intervention
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary action by automatically cleaning the lint filter after each drying cycle before the user needs to access the dryer, preventing lint buildup and maintaining airflow without requiring user action at the moment of need
2Reliability
If manual lint filter cleaning is required frequently, then proper airflow is maintained, but time consumption increases and productivity decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The automatic cleaning system performs lint removal without user intervention, converting a repetitive manual task into an automated process that maintains airflow reliability while freeing user time for other activities
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs lint removal preliminarily after each cycle, preventing accumulation that would require more extensive cleaning later, thereby maintaining consistent airflow without consuming user time
3Ease of operation
If automatic lint filter cleaning system is implemented, then user convenience is improved and operation is simplified, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system merges multiple functions into a single integrated mechanism: the drive assembly simultaneously pivots the filter housing, strikes it against the flange to dislodge lint, and the auger transports lint to the collection container, simplifying user interaction despite the complexity of integrated components
4Ease of repair
If lint is collected in a removable container, then ease of maintenance is improved and lint disposal is simplified, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The collection system is segmented into a removable collection container that can be easily detached from the main housing, allowing users to empty lint without disassembling the entire device, while the internal auger mechanism remains integrated for automated lint transport
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
The system ensures continuous proper airflow and reduces user inconvenience by automatically cleaning and collecting lint, extending the interval between bag replacements to at least six months.
Implementation Method 1
a spring operably connected to the filter housing and the pivot chamber, wherein the spring biases the filter housing into abutment with the flange
Implementation Method 2
an auger rotatably mounted within the collection chamber and operably connected to the drive assembly, wherein the auger is operable to move lint from the collection chamber, through the pipe, and into the collection container as the auger rotates
Data Source
Figure 1~2
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AI summary
An automatic lint filter cleaning and lint collection system for a laundry dryer. The apparatus (25) comprises a lint filter pivot chamber (36), a lint collection chamber (34), a lint filter housing (41) pivotably mounted between the pivot chamber and collection chamber, a flange (42) between the pivot chamber and collection chamber wherein the filter housing is biased into abutment with the flange, a lint collection container (62), an auger (51) rotatably mounted within the collection chamber, and a drive assembly operably connected to the lint filter housing and auger. The drive assembly is operable to pivot the filter housing away from the flange and then to release the filter housing such that the filter housing forcibly returns into abutment with the flange and thereby causes the lint filter (40) to release lint (50) into the collection chamber. The drive assembly is operable to rotate the auger and thereby move lint from the collection chamber into the collection container.