WO2019210973A1 - Lave-linge et son procédé de fonctionnement - Google Patents

Lave-linge et son procédé de fonctionnement Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2019210973A1
WO2019210973A1 PCT/EP2018/061544 EP2018061544W WO2019210973A1 WO 2019210973 A1 WO2019210973 A1 WO 2019210973A1 EP 2018061544 W EP2018061544 W EP 2018061544W WO 2019210973 A1 WO2019210973 A1 WO 2019210973A1
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
duct
washing tub
liquid
recirculation
washing
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/EP2018/061544
Other languages
English (en)
Inventor
Andrea Contarini
Mariano Tartuferi
Stefano De Paoli
Mauro Cinello
Maurizio Del Pos
Original Assignee
Electrolux Appliances Aktiebolag
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Electrolux Appliances Aktiebolag filed Critical Electrolux Appliances Aktiebolag
Priority to PCT/EP2018/061544 priority Critical patent/WO2019210973A1/fr
Priority to CN201880092994.0A priority patent/CN112041498A/zh
Priority to US17/043,295 priority patent/US20210047768A1/en
Priority to AU2018421968A priority patent/AU2018421968A1/en
Priority to EP18722973.7A priority patent/EP3788196A1/fr
Publication of WO2019210973A1 publication Critical patent/WO2019210973A1/fr

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Classifications

    • D—TEXTILES; PAPER
    • D06—TREATMENT OF TEXTILES OR THE LIKE; LAUNDERING; FLEXIBLE MATERIALS NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • D06F—LAUNDERING, DRYING, IRONING, PRESSING OR FOLDING TEXTILE ARTICLES
    • D06F39/00—Details of washing machines not specific to a single type of machines covered by groups D06F9/00 - D06F27/00 
    • D06F39/08—Liquid supply or discharge arrangements
    • D06F39/083—Liquid discharge or recirculation arrangements
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F04—POSITIVE - DISPLACEMENT MACHINES FOR LIQUIDS; PUMPS FOR LIQUIDS OR ELASTIC FLUIDS
    • F04D—NON-POSITIVE-DISPLACEMENT PUMPS
    • F04D29/00—Details, component parts, or accessories
    • F04D29/40—Casings; Connections of working fluid
    • F04D29/42—Casings; Connections of working fluid for radial or helico-centrifugal pumps
    • F04D29/44—Fluid-guiding means, e.g. diffusers
    • F04D29/46—Fluid-guiding means, e.g. diffusers adjustable
    • F04D29/48—Fluid-guiding means, e.g. diffusers adjustable for unidirectional fluid flow in reversible pumps
    • F04D29/486—Fluid-guiding means, e.g. diffusers adjustable for unidirectional fluid flow in reversible pumps especially adapted for liquid pumps
    • D—TEXTILES; PAPER
    • D06—TREATMENT OF TEXTILES OR THE LIKE; LAUNDERING; FLEXIBLE MATERIALS NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • D06F—LAUNDERING, DRYING, IRONING, PRESSING OR FOLDING TEXTILE ARTICLES
    • D06F2103/00—Parameters monitored or detected for the control of domestic laundry washing machines, washer-dryers or laundry dryers
    • D06F2103/44—Current or voltage
    • D06F2103/48—Current or voltage of the motor driving the pump
    • D—TEXTILES; PAPER
    • D06—TREATMENT OF TEXTILES OR THE LIKE; LAUNDERING; FLEXIBLE MATERIALS NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • D06F—LAUNDERING, DRYING, IRONING, PRESSING OR FOLDING TEXTILE ARTICLES
    • D06F33/00—Control of operations performed in washing machines or washer-dryers 
    • D06F33/30—Control of washing machines characterised by the purpose or target of the control 
    • D06F33/47—Responding to irregular working conditions, e.g. malfunctioning of pumps 
    • D—TEXTILES; PAPER
    • D06—TREATMENT OF TEXTILES OR THE LIKE; LAUNDERING; FLEXIBLE MATERIALS NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • D06F—LAUNDERING, DRYING, IRONING, PRESSING OR FOLDING TEXTILE ARTICLES
    • D06F39/00—Details of washing machines not specific to a single type of machines covered by groups D06F9/00 - D06F27/00 
    • D06F39/08—Liquid supply or discharge arrangements
    • D06F39/083—Liquid discharge or recirculation arrangements
    • D06F39/085—Arrangements or adaptations of pumps
    • D—TEXTILES; PAPER
    • D06—TREATMENT OF TEXTILES OR THE LIKE; LAUNDERING; FLEXIBLE MATERIALS NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • D06F—LAUNDERING, DRYING, IRONING, PRESSING OR FOLDING TEXTILE ARTICLES
    • D06F39/00—Details of washing machines not specific to a single type of machines covered by groups D06F9/00 - D06F27/00 
    • D06F39/08—Liquid supply or discharge arrangements
    • D06F39/083—Liquid discharge or recirculation arrangements
    • D06F39/086—Arrangements for avoiding detergent wastage in the discharge conduit

Definitions

  • the present invention concerns the field of laundry washing techniques.
  • the invention relates to a laundry washing machine with recirculation circuits.
  • the invention relates also a method for controlling said recirculation circuits.
  • laundry washing machines both“simple” laundry washing machines (i.e. laundry washing machines which can only wash and rinse laundry) and laundry washing-drying machines (i.e. laundry washing machines which can also dry laundry), is widespread.
  • laundry washing machine will refer to both a simple laundry washing machine and a laundry washing-drying machine.
  • Laundry washing machines generally comprise an external casing, or cabinet, provided with a washing tub which contains a rotatable perforated washing drum where the laundry is placed.
  • a loading/unloading door ensures access to the washing drum.
  • Laundry washing machines typically comprise a water supply unit and a treating agents dispenser, preferably equipped with a drawer, for the introduction of water and washing/rinsing products (i.e. detergent, softener, rinse conditioner, etc.) into the washing tub.
  • a treating agents dispenser preferably equipped with a drawer, for the introduction of water and washing/rinsing products (i.e. detergent, softener, rinse conditioner, etc.) into the washing tub.
  • Known laundry washing machines are typically provided with a water outlet circuit suitable for withdrawing liquid, for example dirty water, from the bottom of the washing tub to the outside.
  • the water outlet circuit is typically provided with a controllable draining pump.
  • Known laundry washing machines are also typically provided with recirculation circuits.
  • a first known recirculation circuit which equips laundry washing machines is adapted to drain liquid from the bottom region of the washing tub and to re-admit such a liquid into an upper region of the washing tub.
  • the first recirculation circuit is preferably provided with a terminal nozzle opportunely arranged so that the recirculated liquid is conveyed over the laundry and distribution of the same liquid over the laundry is enhanced.
  • the first recirculation circuit is typically provided with a first controllable recirculation pump.
  • a second known recirculation circuit which equips laundry washing machines, or mixing circuit, is adapted to drain liquid from a bottom region of the washing tub and to re- admit such a liquid (recirculated mixing liquid) into a region of the washing tub which corresponds substantially to the same bottom region of the washing tub.
  • the mixing circuit is preferably realized for transferring a portion of a liquid from a bottom region of the washing tub to the same bottom region for the mixing and/or the dissolution of the products, in particular for liquid and/or powder detergent.
  • the second recirculation circuit is typically provided with a second controllable recirculation pump.
  • the controlled pumps are opportunely activated at proper times to drain and/or recirculate liquid from the bottom of the washing tub.
  • first and second recirculation pumps of the first and second recirculation circuits are selectively activated to recirculate liquid when necessary.
  • the first and the second recirculation circuits are realized so that they comprise a first common part, namely a draining tube connected to the bottom of the washing tub, a unique controlled recirculation pump and two recirculation tubes that respectively connect the pump outlet to the upper region of the washing tub and the bottom region of the washing tub.
  • a controllable valve is arranged, preferably a two-way valve, that allows the liquid to flow selectively into the first or the second recirculation tube when the recirculation pump is activated.
  • a drawback of the laundry washing machines of the known art is the complex structural construction. According to known art, in fact, two pumps and/or one or more valves are required.
  • the object of the present invention is therefore to overcome the drawbacks posed by the known technique.
  • Applicant has found that by providing a laundry washing machine comprising a washing tub external to a washing drum and a recirculation system comprising a first duct terminating at a first region of the washing tub and a second duct terminating at a second region of the washing tub and by providing a recirculation pump operable in a first direction of rotation and in a second direction of rotation for conveying liquid to a said first duct or said second duct, it is possible to reach the mentioned objects.
  • the present invention relates, therefore, to a laundry washing machine comprising:
  • washing tub external to a washing drum suited to receive the laundry to be washed
  • recirculation system for draining liquid from the bottom of said washing tub and to re-admit such liquid into a first region and a second region of said washing tub, said recirculation system comprising:
  • said recirculation system comprises a recirculation pump operable in a first direction of rotation and in a second direction of rotation opposite to said first direction, said recirculation pump comprising a pump chamber having an inlet connected to said bottom of said washing tub and an outlet arrangement for the connection to said first duct and said second duct, wherein said ducts are configured so that a liquid in said first duct requires a pressure to reach said washing tub which is lower than the pressure required for a liquid in said second duct to reach said washing tub, and wherein said recirculation pump is operated in said first direction to circulate liquid in said first duct to reach said washing tub and is operated in said second direction to circulate liquid in said second duct to reach said washing tub.
  • the pump chamber receives an impeller apt to be rotated and to force liquid from the pump chamber towards the outlet arrangement.
  • the recirculation pump when the recirculation pump is operated in the first direction to circulate liquid in the first duct it is preferably meant that the impeller is rotated in the first direction to circulate in the first duct.
  • the recirculation pump when the recirculation pump is operated in the second direction to circulate liquid in the second duct it is preferably meant that the impeller is rotated in the second direction to circulate in the second duct.
  • the outlet arrangement comprises a first outlet from said pump chamber for said first duct and a second outlet from said pump chamber for said second duct.
  • the first and second outlets are realized at a body portion of the recirculation pump.
  • the first outlet is tangentially arranged with respect to the pump chamber and/or the second outlet is tangentially arranged with respect to the pump chamber.
  • the first outlet is parallel to the second outlet.
  • the outlet arrangement comprises a common outlet portion from said pump chamber and a bifurcation for the first duct and the second duct.
  • the common outlet portion and the bifurcation are realized at a body portion of the recirculation pump.
  • the recirculation pump is a fixed speed pump.
  • the recirculation pump is operated at a first fixed speed and/or in the second direction the recirculation pump is operated at a second fixed speed.
  • the first fixed speed is higher than the second fixed speed (S2).
  • the recirculation pump is a variable speed pump.
  • the recirculation pump is operated at a first fixed speed or at a first speed varying over the time and/or in the second direction the recirculation pump is operated at a second fixed speed or at a second speed varying over the time.
  • the recirculation pump is operated with a continuous driving signal.
  • the recirculation pump is operated with a pulsed driving signal.
  • the machine further comprises a treatment agents dispenser to supply one or more treating agents into the washing tub.
  • the first region is a bottom part of the washing tub.
  • the second region is an upper part of the washing tub.
  • the first duct defines a first volume and the second duct defines a second volume, wherein the first volume is lower than the second volume.
  • the present invention relates to a method for operating a laundry washing machine comprising:
  • washing tub external to a washing drum suited to receive the laundry to be washed
  • recirculation system for draining liquid from the bottom of said washing tub and to re-admit such liquid into a first region and a second region of said washing tub, said recirculation system comprising:
  • a recirculation pump operable in a first direction of rotation and in a second direction of rotation opposite to said first direction, said recirculation pump comprising a pump chamber having an inlet connected to said bottom of said washing tub and an outlet arrangement for the connection to said first duct and said second duct, wherein said ducts are configured so that a liquid in said first duct requires a pressure to reach said washing tub which is lower than the pressure required for a liquid in said second duct to reach said washing tub;
  • said recirculation pump is operated in said first direction to circulate liquid in said first duct to reach said washing tub and is operated in said second direction to circulate liquid in said second duct to reach said washing tub.
  • the recirculation pump is operated in the first direction to circulate liquid only in the first duct.
  • the recirculation pump is operated in the second direction to circulate liquid mainly in the second duct.
  • the recirculation pump is operated in the second direction to circulate liquid also in the first duct.
  • the recirculation pump is a fixed speed pump, wherein in the first direction the recirculation pump is operated at a first fixed speed and/or in the second direction the recirculation pump is operated at a second fixed speed.
  • the first fixed speed is higher than the second fixed speed (S2).
  • the recirculation pump is a variable speed pump, wherein in the first direction the recirculation pump is operated at a first fixed speed or at a first speed varying over the time and/or in the second direction the recirculation pump is operated at a second fixed speed or at a second speed varying over the time.
  • the recirculation pump is operated with a continuous driving signal.
  • the recirculation pump is operated with a pulsed driving signal.
  • FIG. 1 shows a perspective view of a laundry washing machine according to a first embodiment of the invention
  • FIG. 1 shows the laundry washing machine of Figure 1 with some external casing sides removed therefrom;
  • FIG. 3 shows a schematic view of the laundry washing machine of Figure 2;
  • FIG. 6 is a plan view from above of the element of Figure 5;
  • FIG. 7 is a plan sectional view taken along line VII°-VII° of Figure 6;
  • FIG. 8 shows a side schematic view of the laundry washing machine of Figure 1;
  • FIG. 9A shows circulation pump speeds as a function of the time according to a first preferred embodiment of the method of the invention
  • FIG. 10A and 10B show the circulation pump speed as a function of the time according to another preferred embodiment of the method of the invention.
  • FIG. 11 A and 11B show the circulation pump speed as a function of the time according to a further preferred embodiment of the method of the invention.
  • Figure 12 shows a detail of a further embodiment of Figure 2;
  • Figure 13 shows some elements of Figure 12 isolated from the rest
  • FIG. 15 is a plan view from above of the element of Figure 14;
  • Figure 16 is a plan sectional view taken along line XVI°-XVI° of Figure 15;
  • FIG. 17 shows a detail of a further embodiment of Figure 2;
  • FIG. 20 is a plan view from above of the element of Figure 19;
  • Figure 21 is a plan sectional view taken along line XXI°-XXI° of Figure 20.
  • the present invention has proved to be particularly advantageous when applied to laundry washing machines, as described below. It should in any case be underlined that the present invention is not limited to laundry washing machines. On the contrary, the present invention can be conveniently applied to laundry washing-drying machines (i.e. laundry washing machines which can also dry laundry).
  • the laundry washing machine 1 preferably comprises an external casing or cabinet 2, a washing tub 3, a container 4, preferably a perforated washing drum 4, where the laundry to be treated can be loaded.
  • the washing tub 3 is preferably connected to the cabinet 2 by means of an elastic bellows 7, or gasket.
  • the bellows 7 is preferably S-shaped.
  • the cabinet 2 is provided with a loading/unloading door 8 which allows access to the washing drum 4.
  • the washing drum 4 is advantageously rotated by an electric motor, not illustrated, which preferably transmits the rotating motion to the shaft 4a of the washing drum 4, advantageously by means of a belt/pulley system.
  • the motor can be directly associated with the shaft of the washing drum 4.
  • the washing drum 4 is advantageously provided with holes which allow the liquid flowing therethrough. Said holes are typically and preferably homogeneously distributed on the cylindrical side wall of the washing drum 4.
  • the bottom region 3a of the washing tub 3 preferably comprises a seat 15, or sump, suitable for receiving a heating device 10. The heating device 10, when activated, heats the liquid inside the sump 15.
  • the bottom region of the washing tub may be configured differently.
  • the bottom region of the washing tub may not comprise a seat for the heating device.
  • the heating device may be advantageously placed in the annular gap between the washing tub and the washing drum.
  • the laundry washing machine 1 comprises a device 19 suited to sense (or detect) the liquid level inside the washing tub 3.
  • the sensor device 19 preferably comprises a pressure sensor which senses the pressure in the washing tub 3. From the values sensed by the sensor device 19 it is possible to determine the liquid level of the liquid inside the washing tub 3.
  • laundry washing machine may preferably comprise (in addition to or as a replacement of the pressure sensor) a level sensor (for example mechanical, electro-mechanical, optical, etc.) adapted to sense (or detect) the liquid level inside the washing tub 3.
  • a water supply circuit 5 is preferably arranged in the upper part of the laundry washing machine 1 and is suited to supply water into the washing tub 3 from an external water supply line E.
  • the water supply circuit 5 preferably comprises a controlled supply valve 5a which is properly controlled, opened and closed, during the washing cycle.
  • the water supply circuit of a laundry washing machine is well known in the art, and therefore it will not be described in detail.
  • Treating agents may comprise, for example, detergents, rinse additives, fabric softeners or fabric conditioners, waterproofing agents, fabric enhancers, rinse sanitization additives, chlorine-based additives, etc.
  • the treating agents dispenser 14 comprises a removable drawer 6 provided with various compartments suited to be filled with treating agents.
  • the treating agents dispenser may comprise a pump suitable to convey one or more of said agents from the dispenser to the washing tub.
  • the water is supplied into the washing tub 3 from the water supply circuit 5 by making it flow through the treating agents dispenser 14 and then through a supply pipe 18.
  • a further separate water supply pipe can be provided, which supplies exclusively clean water into the washing tub from the external water supply line.
  • a water softening device may preferably be arranged/interposed between the external water supply line and the treating agents dispenser so as to be crossed by the fresh water flowing from the external water supply line.
  • the water softening device as known, is structured for reducing the hardness degree of the fresh water drawn from the external water supply line E and conveyed to the treating agents dispenser.
  • the water softening device may be arranged/interposed between the external water supply line and the washing tub, so as to be crossed by the fresh water flowing from the external water supply line and conveying it directly to the washing tub.
  • Laundry washing machine 1 preferably comprises a water outlet circuit 25 suitable for withdrawing liquid from the bottom region 3 a of the washing tub 3.
  • the water outlet circuit 25 preferably comprises a main pipe 17, a draining pump 27 and an outlet pipe 28 ending outside the cabinet 2.
  • the water outlet circuit 25 preferably further comprises a filtering device 12 arranged between the main pipe 17 and the draining pump 27.
  • the filtering device 12 is adapted to retain all the undesirable bodies (for example buttons that have come off the laundry, coins erroneously introduced into the laundry washing machine, etc.).
  • the filtering device 12 can preferably be removed, and then cleaned, through a gate 13 placed advantageously on the front wall of the cabinet 2 of the laundry washing machine 1, as illustrated in Figure 1.
  • the main pipe 17 connects the bottom region 3 a of the washing tub 3 to the filtering device 12.
  • the filtering device 12 may be provided directly in the washing tub 3, preferably obtained in a single piece construction with the latter. In this case, the filtering device 12 is fluidly connected to the outlet of the washing tub 3, in such a way that water and washing liquid drained from the washing tub 3 enters the filtering device 12.
  • Activation of the draining pump 27 drains the liquid, i.e. dirty water or water mixed with washing and/or rinsing products, from the washing tub 3 to the outside.
  • the laundry washing machine 1 then preferably comprises a recirculation system 20, as better illustrated in Figure 4, which is adapted to drain liquid from the bottom region 3 a of the washing tub 3 and to re admit such a liquid into a first region 3 a and a second region 3b of the washing tub 3, as better described below.
  • a recirculation system 20 as better illustrated in Figure 4, which is adapted to drain liquid from the bottom region 3 a of the washing tub 3 and to re admit such a liquid into a first region 3 a and a second region 3b of the washing tub 3, as better described below.
  • the first region 3a of the washing tub 3 substantially corresponds to the same bottom region 3 a of the washing tub 3.
  • the liquid is preferably re admitted to the bottom region 3a of the washing tub 3 for the mixing and/or the dissolution of the products, in particular of the detergent. Mixing and/or dissolution of a product is preferably carried out during a washing cycle when one of the products is supplied into the washing tub 3 from the treating agents dispenser 14.
  • the second region 3b of the washing tub 3 substantially corresponds to an upper region 3b of the washing tub 3.
  • the liquid is preferably re-admitted to the upper region 3b of the washing tub 3 in order to improve wetting of the laundry inside the washing drum 4.
  • This action is preferably carried out at the beginning of a washing cycle when the laundry needs to be completely soaked. Furthermore, this action is preferably carried out during rinsing phases at the beginning of the washing cycle or during rinsing phases in successive steps of the washing cycle.
  • the recirculation system 20 preferably comprises a first recirculation line 30 for conveying liquid to the first region 3 a of the washing tub 3 and a second recirculation line 40 for conveying liquid to the second region 3b of the washing tub 3.
  • the first recirculation line 30 preferably comprises a first duct 33 terminating at said first region 3a, preferably ending inside the sump 15.
  • the fist duct 33 is preferably provided with a terminal nozzle 33 a.
  • the second recirculation line 40 preferably comprises a second duct 43 terminating at said second region 3b, preferably ending at the bellows 7, as better illustrated in Figure 2.
  • the second duct 43 is preferably provided with a terminal nozzle 43 a.
  • the recirculation system 20 then preferably comprises a common recirculation pump 22 for conveying liquid to the first and second recirculation lines 30, 40, more preferably to the first and second ducts 33, 43.
  • the recirculation pump 22 preferably comprises a pump chamber 23 having an inlet 24 connected to the bottom 3a of the washing tub 3. Inlet 24 of the recirculation pump 22 is preferably connected to the bottom 3 a of the washing tub 3 through a suction pipe 32 preferably connected to the filtering device 12.
  • the recirculation pump 22 then preferably has an outlet arrangement 26 for conveying liquid from the pump chamber 23 to the first and second recirculation lines 30, 40.
  • the pump chamber 23 preferably receives an impeller 23 a apt to be rotated and to force liquid from the pump chamber 23 towards the outlet arrangement 26.
  • the pump chamber 23 preferably has a substantially cylindrical shape.
  • the outlet arrangement 26 preferably comprises a first outlet 58a connected to the first duct 33 and a second outlet 58b connected to the second duct 43.
  • the first outlet 58a preferably comprises a portion of duct which extends tangentially from the pump chamber 23.
  • the second outlet 58b preferably comprises a portion of duct which extends tangentially from the pump chamber 23.
  • First and the second outlets (ducts) 58a, 58b are preferably parallel one to the other.
  • first and second outlets 58a, 58b are preferably realized at a body portion 50 of the recirculation pump 22.
  • the recirculation lines 30, 40 are configured so that the liquid in the first recirculation line 30 requires a pressure Pl to reach the first region 3a of washing tub 3 which is lower than the pressure P2 required for the liquid in the second recirculation line 40 to reach the second region 3b of the washing tub 3.
  • the ducts 33, 43 are configured so that the liquid in the first duct 33 requires a pressure Pl to reach the first region 3a of the washing tub 3 which is lower than the pressure P2 required for a liquid in the second duct 43 to reach the second region 3b of the washing tub 3.
  • the pressure required for the liquid in the first duct 33 to reach the first region 3 a of the washing tub 3 may vary according to the operational condition of the same first recirculation line 30.
  • the pressure required for the liquid in the first duct 33 to reach the first region 3 a of the washing tub 3 while the liquid level inside the washing tub 3 is lower than the position of the terminal nozzle 33a has a first value Pl which is lower than the value RG of the pressure required for the liquid in the first duct 33 to reach the first region 3 a of the washing tub 3 while the liquid level inside the washing tub 3 is equal or higher than the position of the terminal nozzle 33a.
  • the value P2 of the pressure required for the liquid in the second duct 43 to reach the second region 3b of the washing tub 3 does not vary according to the operational conditions of the first recirculation line 30.
  • Said pressure value P2 has the same value irrespective of the liquid level inside the washing tub 3.
  • said pressure values Pl, RG for the liquid in the first duct 33 are lower than the pressure value P2 for the liquid in the second duct 43.
  • the first duct 33 preferably defines a first volume V 1.
  • the first volume VI is closely related to the size of the first duct 33 and preferably depends on diameter and length of the same.
  • the second duct 43 preferably defines a second volume V2.
  • the second volume V2 is closely related to the size of the second duct 43 and preferably depends on diameter and length of the same.
  • the first volume VI defined by the first duct 33 is lower than the second volume V2 defined by the second duct 43.
  • the first duct 33 preferably comprises a first pipe connecting the first outlet 58a to the lower region 3a of the washing tub 3.
  • the second duct 43 preferably comprises a second pipe, substantially having the same diameter of the first pipe but much longer than the first pipe, connecting the second outlet 58b to the upper region 3b of the washing tub 3.
  • the recirculation lines 30, 40 are configured so that the liquid in the first recirculation line 30 requires a pressure Pl to fill the first volume VI and then to reach the first region 3 a of washing tub 3 which is lower than the pressure P2 required for the liquid to fill the second volume V2 in the second recirculation line 40 and to reach the second region 3b of the washing tub 3.
  • the ducts 33, 43 are configured so that the liquid in the first duct 33 requires a pressure Pl to fill the first volume VI and then to reach the first region 3a of washing tub 3 which is lower than the pressure P2 required for the liquid to fill the second volume V2 in the second duct 43 and to reach the second region 3b of the washing tub 3.
  • ducts of the recirculation system may be differently configured to achieve the same effect.
  • first and the second duct may have the same volume but extending at different heights.
  • the recirculation pump 22 comprises a bi-directional pump operable in a first direction of rotation Rl and in a second direction of rotation R2 opposite to the first direction Rl.
  • saying that the recirculation pump 22 is operable in a first direction of rotation Rl means that the impeller 23a is rotatable in the first direction of rotation Rl and saying that the recirculation pump 22 is operable in a second direction of rotation R2 opposite to the first direction Rl means that the impeller 23a is rotatable in the second direction of rotation R2 opposite to the first direction Rl.
  • the impeller 23 a may be rotated in the first direction of rotation Rl and in the second direction of rotation R2 opposite to the first direction Rl.
  • the recirculation pump 22 is operated in the first direction Rl to circulate liquid in the first duct 33 through the first outlet 58a to reach the washing tub 3 and is operated in the second direction R2 to circulate liquid in the second duct 43 through the second outlet 58b to reach the washing tub 3.
  • the impeller 23a is rotated in the first direction Rl to circulate liquid in the first duct 33 through the first outlet 58a to reach the washing tub 3 and is rotated in the second direction R2 to circulate liquid in the second duct 43 through the second outlet 58b to reach the washing tub 3.
  • the pump chamber 23, the impeller 23 a, first and second outlets 58a, 58b are shaped so that when the impeller 23a rotates in the first direction Rl the liquid forced by the impeller 23a itself principally meets the first outlet 58a and, vice versa, when the impeller 23a rotates in the second direction R2 the liquid forced by the impeller 23 a itself principally meets the second outlet 58b.
  • the recirculation pump 22 is operated in the first direction Rl to circulate liquid only in the first duct 33 through the first outlet 58a to reach the washing tub 3.
  • the liquid circulates in the first duct 33 and is sprayed inside the washing tub 3 through the terminal nozzle 33a, more preferably sprayed inside the sump 15.
  • the recirculation pump 22 is operated in the first direction Rl .
  • the bi-directional recirculation pump 22 comprises a fixed speed pump and is therefore preferably operated in the first direction Rl at a predetermined first fixed speed SI.
  • the bi-directional recirculation pump 22 comprises a variable speed pump and may be operated in the first direction Rl either at a predetermined first fixed speed Sl or at a speed sl varying over time.
  • the liquid is preferably re-admitted to the bottom region 3a of the washing tub 3 at a variable speed. Said variation of speed causes a respective variation of the flow rate of the liquid circulating in the first duct 33.
  • the liquid is sprayed inside the sump 15 through the terminal nozzle 33a at variable intensity. This advantageously enhances mixing and/or dissolution of the products.
  • the first speed sl of the recirculation pump 22 in the first direction Rl varies according to a step function.
  • the first speed sl of the recirculation pump 22 in the first direction Rl varies according to a continuous function.
  • the recirculation pump 22 When the recirculation pump 22 is operated in the second direction R2, the liquid circulates in the second duct 43 and sprayed inside the washing tub 3 through the terminal nozzle 43 a, more preferably sprayed over the laundry inside the washing drum 4.
  • the recirculation pump 22 is operated in the second direction R2.
  • the bi-directional recirculation pump 22 comprises a fixed speed pump and is therefore preferably operated in the second direction R2 at a predetermined second fixed speed S2.
  • the first fixed speed Sl of the recirculation pump 22 in the first direction Rl is higher than the second fixed speed S2 of the recirculation pump 22 in the second direction R2.
  • the bi-directional recirculation pump 22 comprises a variable speed pump and may be operated in the second direction R2 either at a predetermined second fixed speed S 2 or at a second speed s2 varying over time.
  • the second speed s2 of the recirculation pump 22 in the second direction R2 varies according to a step function.
  • the second speed s2 of the recirculation pump 22 in the second direction R2 varies according to a continuous function.
  • the second speed s2 is advantageously varied to control the flow direction of the liquid leaving the terminal nozzle 43 a and sprayed over the laundry and therefore to control the liquid distribution over the laundry.
  • Functioning of the laundry washing machine 1 by varying the second speed s2 of the recirculation pump 22 in the second direction R2 is exemplary described with reference to Figure 8.
  • the recirculation pump 22 is operated in the second direction R2 at a low speed s2i ow , the liquid in the second recirculation line 40 is pumped at a corresponding low flow rate.
  • the liquid L leaves the terminal nozzle 43a of the second duct 43 and shows a first course so that it is sprayed onto the laundry at the near side in front of the washing drum 4 (as indicated with line Lf in Figure 8).
  • the recirculation pump 22 is operated in the second direction R2 at a medium speed s2 med , the liquid in the second recirculation line 40 is pumped at a corresponding medium flow rate.
  • the liquid L leaves the terminal nozzle 43a of the second duct 43 and shows a second course so that it is sprayed onto the laundry at the centre of the washing drum 4 (as indicated with line Mf in Figure 8).
  • the recirculation pump 22 is operated in the second direction R2 at a high speed s2 high , the liquid in the second recirculation line 40 is pumped at a corresponding high flow rate.
  • the liquid L leaves the terminal nozzle 43a of the second duct 43 and shows a third course so that it is sprayed onto the laundry at the far side of the washing drum 4 (as indicated with line Hf in Figure 8).
  • the proposed solution advantageously enables the control of the flow direction of the liquid over the laundry as a function of the speed pump s2 in the second direction R2 assuring the optimal liquid distribution over the laundry.
  • the second speed s2 varies according to a step function which assumes said three discrete values s2i ow , s2 medmm and s2high.
  • the second speed s2 may be varied continuously between a minimum value, for example equal to s2i ow , and a high value, for example s2 high , and the liquid L leaving the terminal nozzle 43 a shows corresponding courses from the near side in front of the washing drum 4 (line Lf in Figure 8) to the far side of the washing drum 4 (line Hf in Figure 8).
  • the recirculation pump 22 is operated at the desired speed continuously over time, either in the first direction Rl or in the second direction R2, as illustrated in Figure 9A where first fixed speed Sl and second fixed speed S2 are depicted.
  • the recirculation pump 22 is operated so that its speed has a pulsed waveform Spl having a proper duty cycle Dl, as illustrated in figure 10A.
  • the pulsed waveform Spl is preferably an on-and-off signal, wherein the recirculation pump 22 is opportunely switched on and off.
  • the pulsed waveform Spl therefore preferably comprises a train of pulses.
  • the speed of the recirculation pump 22, either in the first direction Rl or in the second direction R2, is preferably varied by correspondingly varying the duty cycle.
  • the speed Sp2 of the recirculation pump 22 may be increased by increasing the respective duty cycle, as illustrated in Figure 10B.
  • the duty cycle is the fraction of one period in which a system is active.
  • the duty cycle is the fraction of one period in which the recirculation pump is switched on.
  • the speed of the recirculation pump 22, either in the first direction Rl or in the second direction R2, has a pulsed waveform.
  • the recirculation pump 22 is operated so that its speed has a pulsed waveform Spl’ comprising a train of pulses different one to the other, as illustrated in Figure 11 A.
  • the speed of the recirculation pump 22, either in the first direction Rl or in the second direction R2, is preferably varied by correspondingly varying the shape of the pulses.
  • the speed Sp2’ of the recirculation pump 22 may be increased by increasing the duration of each pulse, as illustrated in Figure 1 IB.
  • the two recirculation lines of the recirculation system according to the invention can be easily controlled by means of a single recirculation pump opportunely operated as described above.
  • the liquid is selectively circulated through the first duct 33 or the second duct 43, while the recirculation system 20 does not require any valve as in the known system.
  • the laundry washing machine according to the invention has therefore a simplified structural constmction with respect to the known laundry washing machines. Reliability is therefore increased and manufacturing and/or maintenance time and costs are reduced.
  • the ducts 33, 43 are configured so that the liquid in the first duct 33 requires a pressure Pl to reach the first region 3a of the washing tub 3 which is lower than the pressure P2 required for a liquid in the second duct 43 to reach the second region 3b of the washing tub 3 it is possible to bring the first speed Sl, sl of the recirculation pump 22 in the first direction Rl at high values to improve mixing and/or dissolution.
  • the recirculation pump 22 is rotated in the first direction Rl, the liquid does not flow through the second duct 43 and preferably only the mixing and/or dissolution effect is guarantee, even at high speed of rotation.
  • Figures 12 to 16 show a further preferred embodiment of the invention which differs from the preferred embodiment previously described in the shape of the recirculation pump 122.
  • corresponding characteristics and/or components of the first embodiment previously described are identified by the same reference numbers.
  • the recirculation system 120 preferably comprises a common recirculation pump 122 for conveying liquid to the first and second recirculation lines 30, 40, more preferably to the first and second ducts 33, 43.
  • the recirculation pump 122 preferably comprises a pump chamber 123 having an inlet 124 connected to the bottom 3a of the washing tub 3. Inlet 124 of the recirculation pump 122 is preferably connected to the bottom 3a of the washing tub 3 through a suction pipe 32 preferably connected to the filtering device 12.
  • the recirculation pump 122 then preferably has an outlet arrangement 126 for conveying liquid from the pump chamber 123 to the first and second recirculation lines 30, 40.
  • the pump chamber 123 preferably receives an impeller 123 a apt to be rotated and to force liquid from the pump chamber 123 towards the outlet arrangement 126.
  • the pump chamber 123 preferably has a substantially cylindrical shape.
  • the outlet arrangement 126 preferably comprises a first outlet 158a connected to the first duct 33 and a second outlet 158b connected to the second duct 43.
  • the first outlet l58a preferably comprises a portion of duct which extends obliquely from the pump chamber 123.
  • the second outlet l58b preferably comprises a portion of duct which extends obliquely from the pump chamber 123.
  • First and the second outlets (ducts) l58a, 158b are preferably parallel one to the other.
  • first and second outlets l58a, l58b are preferably realized at a body portion 150 of the recirculation pump 122.
  • the recirculation pump 122 is operated in the first direction Rl to circulate liquid in the first duct 33 through the first outlet l58a to reach the washing tub 3 and is operated in the second direction R2 to circulate liquid in the second duct 43 through the second outlet 158b to reach the washing tub 3.
  • the impeller l23a is rotated in the first direction Rl to circulate liquid in the first duct 33 through the first outlet l58a to reach the washing tub 3 and is rotated in the second direction R2 to circulate liquid in the second duct 43 through the second outlet 158b to reach the washing tub 3.
  • the pump chamber 123, the impeller 123a, first and second outlets 158a, 158b are shaped so that when the impeller 123a rotates in the first direction Rl the liquid forced by the impeller 123a itself principally meets the first outlet 158a and, vice versa, when the impeller 123a rotates in the second direction R2 the liquid forced by the impeller 123 a itself principally meets the second outlet 158b.
  • the speed of the recirculation pump 122 in the first direction Rl is lower than the speed of the recirculation pump 122 in the second direction R2.
  • the speed of the recirculation pump 122 in the first direction Rl is lower than the speed of the recirculation pump 122 in the second direction R2.
  • Figures 17 to 21 show a further preferred embodiment of the invention which differs from the preferred embodiments previously described in the shape of the recirculation pump 222.
  • corresponding characteristics and/or components of the first embodiment previously described are identified by the same reference numbers.
  • the recirculation system 220 preferably comprises a common recirculation pump 222 for conveying liquid to the first and second recirculation lines 30, 40, more preferably to the first and second ducts 33, 43.
  • the recirculation pump 222 preferably comprises a pump chamber 223 having an inlet 224 connected to the bottom 3a of the washing tub 3. Inlet 224 of the recirculation pump 222 is preferably connected to the bottom 3 a of the washing tub 3 through a suction pipe 32 preferably connected to the filtering device 12.
  • the recirculation pump 222 then preferably has an outlet arrangement 226 for conveying liquid from the pump chamber 223 to the first and second recirculation lines 30, 40.
  • the pump chamber 223 preferably receives an impeller 223a apt to be rotated and to force liquid from the pump chamber 223 towards the outlet arrangement 226.
  • the pump chamber 223 preferably has a substantially cylindrical shape.
  • the outlet arrangement 226 preferably comprises a common outlet portion 258 from the pump chamber 223 and a bifurcation 260 for the first duct 33 and the second duct 43.
  • common outlet portion 258 and bifurcation 260 are realized at a body portion 250 of the pump recirculation 222.
  • the bifurcation 260 is preferably substantially Y shaped and configured so that the two ducts 33, 43 preferably extend upwardly from the bifurcation 260.
  • the recirculation pump 222 is operated in the first direction Rl to circulate liquid in the first duct 33 to reach the washing tub 3 and is operated in the second direction R2 to circulate liquid in the second duct 43 to reach the washing tub 3.
  • the impeller 223a is rotated in the first direction Rl to circulate liquid in the first duct 33 to reach the washing tub 3 and is rotated in the second direction R2 to circulate liquid in the second duct 43 to reach the washing tub 3.
  • the speed of the recirculation pump 222 in the first direction Rl is lower than the speed of the recirculation pump 222 in the second direction R2.
  • the speed of the recirculation pump 222 in the first direction Rl is lower than the speed of the recirculation pump 222 in the second direction R2.
  • the present invention allows all the set objects to be achieved.
  • it makes it possible to provide a laundry washing machine having a simplified structural construction with respect to the known laundry washing machines.
  • the present invention has been described with reference to the particular embodiments shown in the figures, it should be noted that the present invention is not limited to the specific embodiments illustrated and described herein; on the contrary, further variants of the embodiments described herein fall within the scope of the present invention, which is defined in the claims.

Landscapes

  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Textile Engineering (AREA)
  • Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • Fluid Mechanics (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Detail Structures Of Washing Machines And Dryers (AREA)

Abstract

La présente invention concerne un lave-linge (1) comprenant une cuve de lavage (3) externe à un tambour de lavage (4), conçu pour recevoir le linge à laver, un système de recirculation (20, 120, 220) comprenant un premier conduit (33) pour faire circuler le liquide dans une première zone de la cuve de lavage (3) et un second conduit (43) pour faire circuler le liquide dans une seconde zone de la cuve de lavage (3). Le système de recirculation (20, 120, 220) comprend une pompe de recirculation (22, 122, 222) pouvant fonctionner dans un premier sens de rotation (R1) et dans un second sens de rotation (R2) inverse au premier sens (R1). La pompe de recirculation (22, 122, 222) fonctionne dans le premier sens (R1) pour faire circuler un liquide dans le premier conduit (33) et dans le second sens (R2) pour faire circuler un liquide dans le second conduit (43).
PCT/EP2018/061544 2018-05-04 2018-05-04 Lave-linge et son procédé de fonctionnement WO2019210973A1 (fr)

Priority Applications (5)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
PCT/EP2018/061544 WO2019210973A1 (fr) 2018-05-04 2018-05-04 Lave-linge et son procédé de fonctionnement
CN201880092994.0A CN112041498A (zh) 2018-05-04 2018-05-04 洗衣机和用于操作洗衣机的方法
US17/043,295 US20210047768A1 (en) 2018-05-04 2018-05-04 Laundry washing machine and method for operating the laundry washing machine
AU2018421968A AU2018421968A1 (en) 2018-05-04 2018-05-04 Laundry washing machine and method for operating the laundry washing machine
EP18722973.7A EP3788196A1 (fr) 2018-05-04 2018-05-04 Lave-linge et son procédé de fonctionnement

Applications Claiming Priority (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
PCT/EP2018/061544 WO2019210973A1 (fr) 2018-05-04 2018-05-04 Lave-linge et son procédé de fonctionnement

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WO2019210973A1 true WO2019210973A1 (fr) 2019-11-07

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US (1) US20210047768A1 (fr)
EP (1) EP3788196A1 (fr)
CN (1) CN112041498A (fr)
AU (1) AU2018421968A1 (fr)
WO (1) WO2019210973A1 (fr)

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EP4083301A4 (fr) * 2020-01-07 2023-06-14 Lg Electronics Inc. Appareil de traitement de vêtements

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EP4253633A4 (fr) * 2021-04-28 2024-06-19 Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. Machine à laver et son procédé de commande
EP4123080A1 (fr) * 2021-07-19 2023-01-25 Electrolux Appliances Aktiebolag Machine à laver le linge

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US20120114473A1 (en) * 2010-11-10 2012-05-10 Badafem Awade Centrifugal pump
JP2014128346A (ja) * 2012-12-28 2014-07-10 Panasonic Corp 洗濯機
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US11939716B2 (en) 2020-01-07 2024-03-26 Lg Electronics Inc. Clothes treating apparatus

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US20210047768A1 (en) 2021-02-18
AU2018421968A1 (en) 2020-10-22
CN112041498A (zh) 2020-12-04
EP3788196A1 (fr) 2021-03-10

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