Washer-dryer comprising a fluff filter in the tub and process for operating the washer-dryer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current washer-dryers face challenges in effectively filtering and cleaning fluff from process air after drying laundry items, with existing solutions often requiring frequent manual or water-based cleaning and limited filter surface area, leading to potential blockages and reduced drying performance.
Innovation Solution
The washer-dryer incorporates a fluff filter inside the tub, fixed to the inner wall, with a large surface area, allowing for improved filtration and cleaning during washing cycles, reducing the need for dedicated cleaning systems and minimizing filter blockages.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the fluff filter is integrated in the air duct, then the filter can be positioned to filter process air, but the filter clogs quickly and requires frequent cleaning
Solution Approach 1:
The fluff filter is extracted from the air duct and repositioned inside the tub between the tub wall and the drum. This separation allows the filter to be positioned in a location where it can be easily cleaned during washing cycles, extending the time between dedicated cleaning operations while maintaining reliable filtering performance.
2Ease of repair
If a water-based cleaning system is used for the fluff filter, then the filter can be cleaned effectively, but the device complexity and costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The washing cycle is designed to serve multiple functions: washing laundry items and cleaning the fluff filter simultaneously. The drum rotation and water flow during normal washing operations are utilized to clean the filter, eliminating the need for a separate dedicated cleaning system with nozzles, hoses, and control mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The fluff filter cleans itself during the washing cycle through the natural action of water flow and drum rotation. The filter is positioned to be exposed to water and airflow during washing, allowing it to clean itself without requiring external cleaning mechanisms or user intervention.
3Reliability
If the fluff filter is positioned in the air duct, then the filter can capture fluff, but liquid water can reach the filter and cause clogging
Solution Approach 1:
The fluff filter is extracted from the air duct environment and repositioned inside the tub where it is protected from water damage during the drying cycle. The filter is positioned against the tub wall where it can capture fluff from the air flow while being shielded from direct water exposure that would cause clogging.
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 enables prolonged use of the fluff filter without frequent cleaning, enhances air distribution, and maintains drying performance by preventing fluff accumulation, thus reducing complexity and mechanical failures.
Implementation Method 1
an air heating device for heating the process air before the process air enters the drum; wherein the air heating device is the condenser of a heat pump
Implementation Method 2
the evaporator as a heat sink
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2~4
Figure 5~6
AI summary
The invention relates to a washer-dryer 1, including a tub 4 in which a drum 5 for receiving laundry items is rotatably provided; a process air circuit 8,9,10,11 for passing an air flow of process air through the drum 5 comprising a blower 12 for driving the air flow; an air heating device 6 for heating the process air before the process air enters the drum 5; and a fluff filter 3; wherein the fluff filter 3 is provided inside the tub 4 between the tub 4 and the drum 5. The invention also relates to a process for operating the washer-dryer.