Integrated Heat Pump Laundry Machine With Vibration-Isolated Mounting
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing laundry machines with integrated heat pump systems face space constraints and oscillation issues due to the tub and drum movement during spinning, which complicates the installation and stability of the heat pump components.
Innovation Solution
A laundry machine design where the tub is stationary with respect to the cabinet during operation, with the heat pump system components supported by the cabinet and/or tub, and a vibration damping system to prevent oscillation, allowing for a compact and easy installation of the heat pump system.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of stationary object
If the heat pump system components are arranged above the tub to save space, then the space utilization is improved, but the oscillation of the tub during spinning affects the stability of the heat pump system
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the support system into two independent parts: the tub support structure and the heat pump system support structure. The heat pump system is supported separately on the cabinet or on the tub via isolated mounting points, decoupling it from the oscillating drum support. This segmentation allows the heat pump components to remain stable even when the tub oscillates during spinning, while still utilizing the space above the tub for component arrangement.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs asymmetric mounting arrangements where the heat pump components are positioned and secured in locations that minimize their exposure to tub oscillations. The support structure is designed with asymmetric bracing and mounting points that provide enhanced stability to the heat pump system while allowing the tub to move independently during operation.
2Stability of the object's composition
If the tub is resiliently supported to reduce oscillation, then the stability of the heat pump system is improved, but the complexity of the support structure increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the vibration isolation function from the main tub support structure and implements it through simple, separate elements such as individual dampers, rubber mounts, or spring elements positioned at key mounting points. Rather than designing a complex integrated vibration isolation system, the solution takes out the essential damping function and implements it through simple, discrete components that are easier to install and maintain.
3Ease of manufacture
If the heat pump system is rigidly connected to the tub, then the installation is simplified, but the oscillation of the tub during spinning affects the heat pump system performance
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies beforehand cushioning by incorporating vibration-damping elements such as rubber mounts, spring elements, or dampers between the heat pump system and the tub or cabinet. These cushioning elements are installed during the assembly process to prevent vibration transmission before the machine operates. This approach maintains ease of installation through simple mounting procedures while protecting the heat pump system from oscillations during spinning, thereby ensuring reliable performance.
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 design ensures the heat pump system is not affected by tub oscillations, enabling a more efficient and space-saving integration of the heat pump components within the machine, improving stability and simplifying installation.
Implementation Method 1
a vibration damping system to prevent oscillation
Implementation Method 2
The air stream circuit and the refrigerant circuit are coupled by at least two heat exchangers
Data Source
AI summary
A laundry machine includes an integrated heat pump system. The laundry machine comprises a cabinet (10). A tub (12) is associated to the cabinet (10). An air line is fluidly connected to the tub and to the heat pump system for air recirculation. A rotatable drum (14) is arranged within the tub (12) and resiliently supported at the cabinet (10) and/or at the tub (12) so that the tub (12) is stationary with respect to the cabinet (10) during operation of the machine, in particular during rotation of the drum (14). At least a part of the components of the heat pump system is supported by the cabinet 10 and/or the tub (12).