DE102009047155A1 - Condensate collector for a clothes dryer and clothes dryer with a condensate collector - Google Patents

Abstract

The invention relates to a condensate collector 108 for a laundry drying apparatus 1, comprising a condensate inlet 110 and a condensate drain 131, characterized in that the condensate collector 108 has a condensate filter 109 with at least one sieve 134, which is arranged fluidically between the condensate inlet 110 and the condensate drain 131, wherein the condensate filter 109 is spaced from the condensate inlet 110 in the condensate collection tank 108. The invention also relates to a laundry drying device 1, which has such a condensate collection container 108.

Description

The invention relates to a condensate collection container for a laundry dryer, which has a condensate inlet and a condensate drain. The invention further relates to a laundry drying apparatus with such a condensate collection container.

In each of the writings DE 37 38 031 C2 . WO 2007/093461 A1 . WO 2007/093467 A1 and WO 2007/093468 A1 In each case, a dryer is disclosed which comprises a drying chamber to receive articles to be dried, and a process air duct for passing process air along the articles to receive moisture from them, and a heat sink disposed in the process air duct for detecting the moisture as To separate condensate, wherein the dryer has a condensate collection container to receive the condensate.

According to each of these documents, a condensate (typically condensed water) collected in the condensate collector is used to clean at least one component of the dryer of lint, in particular a heat sink. The heat sink is used in the drying process to extract heat from a stream of process air which is circulated to receive moisture around the articles to be dried, thus precipitating the moisture taken up from the articles as condensate. The heat sink is in particular a component of a heat pump, for example an evaporator heat exchanger in which the extracted from the process air heat is used to evaporate a refrigerant circulating through the heat pump, where it undergoes cyclic phase changes from liquid to gas and vice versa.

During a drying process, particles such as dust, hair or small fibers, referred to below as lint, may be detached from the objects to be dried by the process air. Lint will especially occur when drying laundry or other textiles, especially when the objects are circulated in a rotating drum, as is common for laundry. A corresponding dryer will have one or more filters to filter such lint from the process air; however, a fraction of the lint will escape the filter and continue to be transported along the path of the process air. Upon subsequent cooling of the process air in the heat sink, condensate will separate out of the process air with the lint that has escaped the filter. Some of the lint so accumulated in the condensate are deposited on the heat sink and stick there. The liquid condensate collected at the heat sink, which is sent to the condensate collecting tank, will thereby also have a considerable amount of lint distributed therein. As in DE 37 38 031 C2 carried out, a device for cleaning the heat sink can be provided. The cleaning device has a manifold directed towards the heat sink and has means for spraying the condensate so collected onto the heat sink to remove the lint adhered to it. In order to prevent the manifold from being added by lint distributed in the condensate, it has nozzles with cross-sections large enough to allow the lint to flow without agglomeration. These large cross sections cause a low pressure and / or a low velocity of the condensate pressed through. This impairs the cleaning effect.

In order to achieve a requirement-based cleaning effect on the heat exchanger, the condensate z. B. are passed through a cup-shaped filter insert when introduced into the condensate collector. The filter cartridge could be inserted into a condensate inlet of the condensate collection tank. In the filter cartridge, the lint that may be in the condensate could be retained.

However, a use of such a filter cartridge has the following disadvantages: The relatively small screen area or filter surface of the pot-shaped filter cartridge can be clogged relatively quickly with lint. A jet of condensate, typically cyclically pumped into the condensate receiver, encounters increased flow resistance through the filter cartridge as such and increased by the accumulation of lint in the filter cartridge. The condensate can not flow away quickly enough through the filter insert, so that a backflow can form up to the overflow of the condensate, so that the condensate can get into the interior of the laundry dryer. The lint floating in the filter insert is flushed out of the filter insert uncontrollably by the overflowing condensate. Due to its small size, the filter insert also fills quickly with lint and needs to be cleaned accordingly. In addition, it may even without the above deposits on the filter cartridge come to a condensate outlet, if the cyclically pumped condensate strikes parts of the filter cartridge, which act as a baffle and inject the incident condensate to the outside of the condensate collection container.

It is the object of the present invention to at least partially avoid the above-mentioned disadvantages and in particular a simple, Provide inexpensive and trouble-free way to remove lint from a condensate of a laundry dryer.

This object is achieved according to the features of the independent claims. Preferred embodiments are in particular the dependent claims.

The object is achieved by a condensate collection container for a laundry dryer, comprising a condensate inlet and a condensate drain. The condensate collecting tank has a condensate filter with at least one sieve, wherein the condensate filter is arranged fluidically between the condensate inlet and the condensate drain.

The fact that the condensate filter is arranged fluidically between the condensate inlet and the condensate outlet means that condensate introduced into the condensate inlet flows essentially completely through the condensate filter before it can be discharged as filtered condensate through the condensate drain.

This condensate collection container has the advantage that the condensate can flow unhindered into the condensate inlet region of the condensate collection container. The volume of the condensate collection container before the condensate filter is usually much larger than the volume of the filter insert in the condensate inlet; even the condensate inlet area itself is typically already considerably larger than the known filter element. Consequently, a further water flow is not influenced as much as with the filter insert, and the inflowing condensate does not jet back. Also, an overflow of the condensate collecting tank is effectively suppressed by the larger volume even with a partially added condensate filter. Furthermore, impurities, in particular lint, have a lower concentration in the collected condensate, so that the condensate filter does not become so fast.

It is a preferred embodiment that the condensate filter is arranged at a distance from the condensate inlet in the condensate collecting tank. As a result, a volume for the inflowing condensate before the condensate filter can be further increased.

Alternatively, the condensate filter can be arranged directly next to the condensate inlet or condensate inlet region and z. B. represent a wall of the Kondensateinlassbereichs. This exploits the fact that the condensate inlet region itself can already provide a sufficiently large volume for the condensate. The condensate inlet region is also advantageously designed, in particular with regard to its volume, largely independently of the condensate filter. Another advantage is that the condensate filter can be viewed through the condensate inlet opening, so that a user can check a degree of contamination of the condensate filter without removing it.

The condensate collector can also be filled with fresh water. For this purpose, a fresh water inlet can be arranged at the condensate inlet or at a dedicated fresh water inlet. A replenishment with fresh water can z. B. be advantageous if not enough condensate is available.

It is another preferred embodiment that the condensate filter is arranged in a flow channel between the condensate inlet and the condensate drain. The condensate filter covers a flow cross-section of the flow channel. In other words, the condensate flowing through the flow channel is filtered by the condensate filter. This makes it particularly easy to set desired filter characteristics.

It is a further preferred embodiment that the condensate filter has at least one substantially planar area sieve. This provides a condensate filter which is particularly simple in design and can be arranged. In addition, such a filter can be particularly thoroughly cleaned by reversing a flow direction, such as can be achieved by emptying the condensate collection container through the condensate inlet. This can happen, for example, after each drying process and / or after a corresponding message to the user. Under a substantially planar-area sieve can also be understood a sieve which is slightly curved, z. B. in the flow direction; This increases a filter surface. In general, the shape of the sieve is not limited and may, for. B. also have a semi-cylindrical contour. The sieve can basically also be corrugated and so on. In particular, for a simple and inexpensive production, a sieve is preferred which has an open shape (i.e., no closed shape such as a cup, pot, or tube shape).

It is a further preferred embodiment that the at least one planar-area sieve is substantially orthogonal to a flow direction of the condensate, for. B. in the flow channel, is aligned. As a result, a filter surface or sieve surface can be achieved, which can be significantly larger than with a filter element assigned to the condensate inlet.

It is yet another preferred embodiment that the condensate filter can be removed. Thus, the condensate filter thoroughly from stubborn adhering contaminants (fluff, etc.) can be freed.

It is a particularly preferred embodiment that the condensate filter can be inserted and removed from a slot in a cover of the condensate collection container. Thus, the condensate filter can be removed very easily, and the condensate collection tank can be filled very high.

It is still a particularly preferred embodiment that the condensate filter on the condensate collection container (releasably) can be locked. This ensures that the condensate filter is fully inserted.

It is also a preferred embodiment that the condensate filter has a handle for removal from the condensate collection container, which greatly facilitates the removal.

It is also a preferred embodiment that the handle is hinged to a portafilter and the condensate filter is optionally locked and unlocked depending on a position of the handle on the condensate filter. Thus, the condensate filter can be easily locked and unlocked by changing the position, in particular rotational position, of the handle. For example, an upright or upstanding handle may correspond to an unlocked position, and the handle may be particularly easily grasped in this unlatched position. On the other hand, a folded-down or resting handle may correspond to a locked position. By this configuration can also be dispensed with a separate actuator for locking.

It is still a preferred embodiment that the handle is equipped with a locking lever which presses the locked condensate filter into the condensate collecting tank. The locking lever can for a particularly simple and robust design z. B. have at least one eccentric element. Through the locking lever, the condensate filter can be pressed firmly into the condensate collection tank in order to reduce or completely close possible gaps on the condensate filter. By avoiding parasitic condensate flows around the condensate filter, filter efficiency is improved.

For easy cleaning and / or emptying of the condensate collection container, the condensate collection container can be removed from the laundry drying apparatus. In the event that the condensate filter is locked to the condensate collector, if the handle is rotated on the condensate tank, there is the advantage that the handle when inserting the condensate collection in the laundry dryer due to the typically only small gap between the condensate collection and the laundry dryer automatically brought into its locking position.

It is a further preferred embodiment that the condensate filter on the condensate collection container, in particular cover, is releasably latched. Such a lock is particularly easy to implement and wear-susceptible.

It is yet another preferred embodiment that the condensate filter has on its underside a directed against the flow direction rib ("sump").

As a result, sinking particles (lint, etc.) can be collected on the screen or condensate filter and held in the flow. They can then be easily removed with the removal of the condensate filter. Without the sump, these particles would not be removed with the condensate filter and would rather be able to enter the first condensate chamber with the condensate filter removed. The sump may also be used as a coding for the correctly positioned introduction of the condensate filter in the slot provided, z. B. in the sense of a 'Poka Yoke' for the installation direction.

The object is also achieved by a laundry drying apparatus having a condensate collection container as described above.

In the following figures, the invention will be described schematically with reference to an embodiment schematically. In this case, the same or equivalent elements may be provided with the same reference numerals for clarity.

1 shows a laundry drying apparatus having a heat sink and a condensate collection container;

2 shows in oblique view from above a condensate collecting tank without its lid with a filter insert insertable into a condensate inlet;

3 shows the condensate collector 2 with lid attached;

4 shows an oblique view of a condensate collecting tank, which is connected to a cleaning device for rinsing a heat sink;

5 shows in plan view a condensate collecting container according to a first embodiment;

6 shows in plan view the condensate collecting container according to the first embodiment without a lid;

7 shows the condensate collection container according to the first embodiment as a sectional view in side view along a section line AA 5 ;

8th shows in front view a condensate filter according to a first embodiment;

9 shows a sectional view in an oblique view of the condensate collecting container according to the first embodiment around the condensate filter according to the first embodiment cut out around;

10 shows in oblique view from above a section of the condensate collection container according to the first embodiment in the region of the condensate filter with an unlocked condensate filter;

11 shows in one too 10 analogous view of the condensate collection container according to the first embodiment with a locked condensate filter;

12 shows in oblique view from above a section of a condensate collection container according to a second embodiment in the region of the condensate filter with a condensate filter according to a second embodiment;

13 shows in oblique view from the rear the condensate filter according to the second embodiment; and

14 shows a sectional side view of the condensate filter according to the second embodiment used in the condensate collection container according to the second embodiment.

Based on 1 now becomes a basic construction of a dryer 1 described here as a tumble dryer 1 is designed. He has a drying chamber 2 on that as a rotatable drum 2 is executed and to be dried objects 3 , namely wet laundry 3 , contains. Process air is passed through the drying chamber 2 and in a closed circuit which passes through a process air duct 4 is defined to the laundry 3 guided around. The process air duct 4 has a means for driving the process air, in particular a fan 18 , as well as means to process the air before entering the drying chamber 2 to heat which means in particular a heat source 15 are. Further, the process air duct has a means to cool the process air after passing through the drum 2 has run, in particular a heat sink 5 ,

When the process air through the heat sink 5 Moisture, which is collected from the process air, while it passes along the wet laundry 3 flows out of the process air as a liquid condensate by removing heat from the process air as it passes through the heat sink 5 flows. Condensate, which has been separated from the process air is, by means of a condensate collection device 6 . 7 . 8th , which is a condensate line 6 that is attached to the heat sink 5 starts, as well as a condensate pump 7 and a condensate collector 8th where the condensate line 6 ends, collected. The condensate collector 8th is intended to hold the condensate as long as the drying process to the laundry 3 to dry, runs. After completion of the drying process, all moisture, which is in the wash 3 was present before the drying process, in the form of the liquid condensate in the condensate collection tank 8th collected. The condensate collector 8th has a filter cartridge 9 on, which is permeable to condensate and through an opening 10 in the condensate collector 8th protrudes. Condensate leading to the condensate collector 8th is passed through the filter cartridge 9 enter. Likewise, when the condensate collector 8th after completion of a drying process from the dryer 1 is removed to dispose of the condensate, the condensate on the filter cartridge 9 from the condensate collector 8th poured out. The filter insert 9 has a first sieve and a first filter 11 on how best in the 2 and 3 to see to filter particulate matter from the condensate, which was deposited simultaneously with the condensate from the process air, and to prevent particulate matter in the condensate collector 8th enters and pollutes the condensate contained therein. Such particulate matter may be fluff, namely small and more or less dust-like fibers, which may be produced by spinning the wet laundry during a rotation of the drying chamber 2 is generated and carried by the process air. Fluff in a broader sense may also include hair, etc. The condensate attached to the heat sink 5 is deposited, such fluff (including hair) begins and separates them on the surfaces of the heat sink 5 which are exposed to the process air. This may cause pollution of the heat sink 5 and lead to a deterioration of their function.

As a layer of lint on the heat sink 5 builds up the ability of the heat sink 5 To extract heat from the process air, decrease, and an efficiency of the dryer 1 is reduced accordingly. This layer of lint can also have a free flow cross section of the heat sink 5 reduce, causing air resistance of the heat sink 5 increases. Consequently, a volume flow and thus a cooling capacity also decrease. Therefore, it is desirable to clean the heat sink 5 provide. In a classic clothes dryer 1 where the heat sink 5 a heat exchanger in which heat from the process air is absorbed into cooling air (or cooling water) likes the heat sink 5 Be constructed so that they exit the dryer after finishing a drying process 1 is removable. This allows the heat sink 5 by a user of the dryer 1 getting cleaned. If the heat sink 5 however, as a component of a heat pump, it will not be possible to heat sink 5 for removal by a user to construct. In such case, other means must be provided to ensure proper cleaning.

In the example as in 1 and 4 a cleaning device is shown 12 . 13 . 14 for cleaning the heat sink 5 provided. This device has a liquid line 12 for conducting condensate from the condensate collector 8th to the heat sink 5 on, a valve 13 for controlling the operation of the device and one of the heat sink 5 assigned distributor 14 for distributing condensate through the liquid line 12 arrives, over the heat sink 5 and their surfaces exposed to the process air and the fluff contained therein. This can be done any at the heat sink 5 Washed off adhering lint and rinsed with the condensate, which through the condensate line 6 and the condensate pump 7 back to the condensate collector 8th is directed. Any fluff coming through the condensate line 6 will be directed at the first filter 11 of the filter insert 9 Collect and be prevented from entering the condensate collector 8th penetrate. This will cause the lint in the filter cartridge 9 collected for later disposal and the condensate, which again in the condensate tank 8th is ready for another cleaning operation, if so desired. To remove the lint from the first filter 11 To remove, like the filter cartridge 9 with the first filter 11 and the collected lint from the condensate collector 8th be removed. When the filter cartridge 9 in the opening 10 is placed, which also serves that in the condensate tank 8th pouring out condensate, becomes the first filter 11 in the filter cartridge 9 through the condensate that flows through the opening 10 and the filter insert contained therein 9 is poured out, backwashed. As a result, the collected lint simultaneously with the condensate in a single action from the condensate tank 8th away. The use of such a filter cartridge 9 has the disadvantage that its volume is small, so it must be easily clogged and cleaned frequently. In addition, the jet of pumped condensate when entering the condensate tank 8th encounter resistances (similar to a baffle plate), which can cause condensate to spurt out during filling.

As previously stated, the heat sink belongs 5 to a heat pump 5 . 15 . 16 . 17 that the process air duct 4 assigned. The heat pump 5 . 15 . 16 . 17 also has a heat source 15 which is adapted to transfer heat to the process air flowing through. A pumping of heat from the heat sink 5 to the heat source 15 is done by means of a coolant, in particular a fluorinated hydrocarbon compound or a mixture of such compounds, which is circulated in a closed circuit in which it is from a compressor 16 is driven and in which it is subjected to a throttling process when passing through a throttle 17 flows. An operation of the pump 5 . 15 . 16 . 17 The procedure is as follows: the coolant reaches the heat sink 5 as a liquid at a relatively low pressure level. In the heat sink 5 The coolant absorbs heat from the process air and is thereby vaporized, assuming a gas state. The coolant in such a gas state is subsequently by means of a compressor 16 compressed to a relatively high pressure level and to the heat source 15 directed. In the heat source 15 Heat is transferred from the coolant to the process air, and as a result, the coolant condenses back into a liquid state. In this liquid state, the coolant becomes the throttle 17 directed, which serves to lower the internal pressure of the coolant to the lower pressure level. As a result, the coolant becomes the heat sink again 5 which closes the circuit to repeat the cycle of evaporation and condensation as set forth. The circuit must be perfectly sealed against any loss of coolant. Accordingly, it is not possible the heat sink 5 for cleaning purposes or for other purposes.

In the 1 shown heat sink 5 and the heat source 15 are in fact understood in principle as components of a heat pump, as further in and with respect 1 executed. In addition, they should also be understood as proxies of all known or obvious types of such components. In particular, the heat sink likes 5 be an air-to-air heat exchanger, and the heat source 15 may be a classic resistance heater.

The process air duct 4 includes a blower 18 to convey the process air flowing in its own closed loop, and it also contains a second filter 19 that is between the drying chamber 2 and the heat sink 5 is arranged to collect a major proportion of the lint, which from the process air from the drying chamber 2 be transported. It should be noted that the process air duct 4 that includes all the components that are inserted into it, does not need to be perfectly finished. To the operation of the dryer 1 It is generally no more and no less necessary to ensure that greater losses of the process air are avoided, apart from considerable leaks of heat and / or moisture from the circuit. There is no need for a seal that would withstand considerable compressive loads without breaking. On the contrary, it will be desirable to have the pressure in the circulation more or less at the pressure level outside the dryer 1 to keep.

As previously stated, the drying chamber is 2 designed as a rotatable drum; an engine 22 is provided to the drum 2 by means of a belt 23 and a role 24 drive.

On the contrary to the heat sink 5 like the second filter 19 from the dryer 1 for the purpose of cleaning, and the condensate collecting tank 8th Like to dispose of the condensate also from the dryer 1 be removed. It should be noted that the connection 25 between the condensate collector 8th and the liquid line 12 must be properly configured, for example by providing a valve in the condensate collection tank 8th which closes automatically when the condensate collector 8th from the dryer 1 is removed.

Finally, it should be noted that the dryer 1 also a control unit 26 having. This control unit 26 serves as an interface between the dryer 1 and the user, to allow a drying process to be properly designed as desired by the user, for example, by selecting from a selection of predefined drying programs. The same applies to the controller 26 to operate all of the components mentioned herein that require a supply of power or input of control signals, or for other control actions. In addition, the control unit likes 26 also be connected to sensors, which for the sake of clarity not in 1 are shown, which sensors may be applied to a drying process in the dryer 1 to control. All connections to and from the control unit 26 are not shown for reasons of clarity.

In 2 and 3 are some details of the condensate container 8th and the filter cartridge 9 shown. While 2 only one housing part 20 the condensate tank 8th shows, shows 3 the housing part 20 with a corresponding cover or lid 21 covered, with the lid 21 the opening 10 for inserting the filter cartridge 9 having the first filter 11 wearing. This condensate collector 8th is more or less designed according to a well-known practice; he is with a handle 127 equipped in 4 is shown, with the handle 127 has a surface in a front part of the dryer 1 is visible and flush with the overall design of the front is integrated.

It should be noted that while it is under 1 the valve 13 at a distance from the condensate container 8th is shown, may be desirable, the valve 13 in the condensate collector 8th to place and the valve 13 arrange so that it is always closed when the container 8th from the dryer 1 is removed. In such an embodiment, the container forms 8th an independent unit with the valve 13 , a unit, which comes from the dryer 1 is removable to dispose of the condensate and collected fluff without running the risk of spilling the condensate.

5 shows in plan view a condensate collector 108 , with a lid 121 on a container body 120 placed. In contrast to the condensate collection tank 8th is the condensate filter 109 from the condensate inlet 110 spaced apart. This can cause condensate in the condensate inlet 110 be poured without the condensate filter 109 causes a back splash of the condensate.

The condensate collector 108 can instead of the condensate collection tank 8th in the 1 shown dryer 1 be used. This is the condensate tank 108 in an insertion opening (not shown) of the dryer 1 insertable and withdrawable (as indicated by the double arrow), and has a handle to do so 127 on.

6 shows in plan view the container body 120 of the condensate collection tank 108 without the lid 121 , and 7 shows the condensate collection container as a sectional view in side view along a section line AA 5 , An upright rib acting as a room divider or partition 128 divides the condensate receiving space of the container body 120 in a first condensate chamber 129a and a second condensate chamber 129b , This division of space causes the condensate initially in the first condensate chamber 129a increases, whereby the water pressure rises faster than when filling the entire container body 120 would happen. This higher water pressure causes when you open the condensate tank 108 associated drain valve 13 as it is z. In 1 and 4 shown, the condensate at a higher speed through the liquid line 12 and about the distributor 14 to the heat sink 5 arrives. This improves the cleaning performance. In the room layout is exploited that for a flushing of the heat sink 5 only about 2 liters of condensate are needed, which is less than the capacity of the entire container body 120 but about a capacity of the first condensate chamber 192a equivalent.

The room layout is not hermetic, but there is an overflow between the two condensate chambers 129a . 129b , The rib 128 Its height does not reach to the top of the body, leaving an upper edge of the rib 128 reaching condensate in the first condenser chamber 129a in the second condensate chamber 129b can overflow. The second condensate chamber 129b thus serves as an overflow reservoir and can after removal of the condensate collection tank 108 be emptied by a user.

The high rib 128 is shaped so that it has an elongated flow channel 130 between a condensate inlet area 110a which is the condensate inlet 110 is assigned, and one in the bottom of the first condensate chamber 129a introduced condensate drain 131 is arranged. Through the condensate inlet 110 in the condensate inlet area 110a filled condensate thus flows through the flow channel 130 in the direction of the condensate drain 131 and will be at a closed valve 13 and thus with closed condensate drain 131 in the first condensate chamber 129a collected and with the valve open 13 and thus open condensate drain 131 from the condensate drain 131 to the heat sink 5 promoted. A flow of the condensate is indicated by the hatched arrows.

In the flow channel 130 , approximately at right angles to the longitudinal direction of the flow channel 130 and thus approximately orthogonal to the flow direction of the condensate is the condensate filter 109 brought in. Here is the condensate filter 109 in appropriate guides 132 a wall of the container body 120 and the raised rib 128 used. Thus, everything must be in the condensate inlet 110 filled condensate the condensate filter 109 go through before it to the condensate drain 131 can get. That the condensate between the condensate inlet 110 and the condensate filter 109 available volume is considerably larger than the corresponding volume of the filter cartridge 9 out 2 and 3 , This will even with a partially blocked condensate filter 109 an overflow of condensate via the condensate inlet 110 when filling the condensate collection tank 108 avoided.

The condensate filter 109 is passed through a slot (not shown) in the lid 121 inserted and pulled out.

8th shows the condensate filter 109 in front view analogous to the view in 7 in a view through the flow channel 130 in the flow direction of the condensate. The condensate filter 109 has a screen frame 133 in which a planar planar sieve 134 is arranged to filter the condensate flowing through it. Because of the planar surface and the arrangement in the flow path of the condensate, this sieve 134 when pouring out the condensate during a manual emptying of the condensate collection tank 108 cleared by the user better than the insert filter 9 ,

At an upper side of the screen frame 133 is a hinged, rotatable handle 135 attached, which on one side along the axis of rotation a locking lever 136 having, wherein the locking lever 136 with an eccentric element 139 Is provided.

9 shows as a sectional view in an oblique view a section of the condensate collection tank 108 in which the condensate collector 108 along the flow channel 130 is cut out and where the condensate filter 109 as a full element in the condensate tank 108 is shown used. The condensate filter 109 will be in the appropriate guides 132 of the container body 120 held, so that the sieve 134 is arranged substantially perpendicular to the direction indicated by the hatched arrows flow direction of the condensate. The condensate filter 109 can in the lid 121 be locked by the condensate filter 109 from the top through the slot 141 in the lid 121 in the guides 132 is inserted until the locking lever 136 between two of the lid 121 laterally to the locking lever 136 upstanding curved projections 137 is immersed. Here is the handle 135 still high or parallel to the screen frame 133 (Position not shown) so that it can be easily grasped. After inserting the condensate filter 109 can the handle 135 for locking the condensate filter 109 at the condensate collector 108 on the lid 121 be folded down, which is explained in more detail in the following figures.

10 shows a section of the condensate tank 108 with an oblique view of the lid 121 with inserted, but not locked condensate filter 109 , The corresponding view of the lid 121 outstanding part of the condensate filter 109 in a side view along an axis of rotation on the locking lever 136 is shown in the enlarged section drawn within the circle. In the unlocked position shown is the handle 135 high and thus easy to insert or remove the condensate filter 109 be taken. In this position, the locking lever 136 unhindered between the two laterally arranged by the locking lever projections 137 plunge. The locking lever 136 has a parallel to the vertical extent of the handle 135 protruding nose 138 on. The nose 138 can in the position shown in a recess 142 in the lid 121 plunge. The locking lever 136 is also as an eccentric element 139 designed or equipped. In other words, the condensate filter 109 with high grip 135 easy and without obstruction by the projections 137 in the slot 141 in the lid 121 to be moved.

11 shows in one too 10 analog representation of the condensate filter used 109 in a locked position. In the locked position is the handle 135 folded laterally, so that, as shown in the circular section, the nose 138 is swung laterally and against one of the projections 137 suppressed. This firstly the condensate filter 109 prevented from inadvertently from the condensate tank 108 to solve. Second, the condensate filter 109 thereby pressed into its seat, allowing possible gaps, which cause a parasitic condensate flow to the condensate filter 109 could be closed more reliably.

The locking arrangement shown has the advantage that it is very easy ausgestaltbar. In addition, this arrangement protects against unintentional loosening of the condensate filter 109 during operation of the dryer 1 , as a when inserting the condensate collection 108 in the dryer 1 possibly still high grip 135 is folded with the insertion in the locked position, as a gap height between the lid 121 and the drawer of the dryer 1 not enough to handle 135 in the unlocked, upright rotational position to leave.

In the lid 121 are the positions of the handle 135 through symbols 140a for the unlocked position and 140b introduced for the locked position. The symbol 140b for the locked position is available twice, which is the handle 135 when moving on both sides or in both directions of rotation the condensate filter 109 locked.

12 shows a view of obliquely above a section of a condensate collection tank 208 according to a second embodiment in a region of a condensate filter 209 according to a second embodiment.

In contrast to the condensate collection tank 108 According to the first embodiment, the condensate collecting tank 208 now a condensate inlet 210 or condensate inlet area 210a on which to the condensate filter 209 borders. The volume of the condensate inlet area 210a in front of the condensate filter 209 is much larger than the filter cartridge at the condensate inlet of the known condensate water tank 8th so that overflow etc. can be prevented. Through the condensate inlet 210 a user can also pollute the built-in condensate filter 209 just check.

The condensate filter 209 now has a planar two-part sieve 234 or two planar single screens 234 on which in a common screen frame 233 being held. At the bottom of the screen frame 233 there is a marsh rib 243 , which against the (indicated by the arrows) flow direction and in the direction of the condensate inlet region 210a is directed. Falling fluff come on the marshland 243 for lying and are not removed by the condensate flow. These lint can be removed by simply removing the condensate filter 209 with out of the condensate collector 208 be removed. The marsh rib 243 here also serves for coding to incorrect insertion of the condensate filter 209 to avoid.

13 shows in view from obliquely behind the condensate filter 209 , 14 shows a sectional view in side view into the condensate tank 208 used condensate filter 209 , Referring to these two figures, the screen frame 233 on its back two locking lugs 244 on, which in corresponding, spring-mounted locking receptacles 245 of the lid 221 engage and so the condensate filter 209 in the lid 221 hold. The condensate filter 209 can be reached by grasping at its comparatively simple molded handle 235 simply clicked in and removed again.

To prevent during a filling of condensate at a high level in the condensate tank 208 Lint, etc. by the uprooting of the water and the corresponding wave formation again from the condensate inlet 210 flushed out, has the upstanding rib 128 at the condensate inlet area 210a one compared to another edge 247 (Which the overflow height between the first condensate chamber 129a and the second condensate chamber 129b defined) lowered section 246 on. The lowered section 246 is dimensioned so that lint from the Kondensateinlassbereich 210a through the lowered section 246 in the second condensate chamber 129b can drain before being filled from the condensate collector 208 spill out or be rinsed out. Also, so will be when the level is the height of the lowered section 246 exceeds, a water movement in the condensate inlet region 210a calmed because there is a larger water surface, which reduces a surface impulse. The water surface then corresponds to a combined water surface of the condensate inlet region 210a and the second condensate chamber 129b ,

Of course, the present invention is not limited to the embodiment shown.

Thus, it is also possible to use a plurality of fluidically parallel and / or serially arranged condensate filters. In general, the laundry drying apparatus may be, in particular, a washer-dryer or a tumble dryer. In this case, a conventional condensation drying process z. B. with water as the coolant (condensation dryer o. Ä.) And / or a heat pump for heating and cooling of the process air (heat pump o. Ä.) Are used.

In addition, the type of locking is not limited to the reversal of the handle shown.

Alternatively, the condensate filter can be locked in the lid by a catch. For this purpose, the condensate filter can, for example, have one or more (eg two) latching means (eg latching lugs) which, when sufficiently inserted, can engage in corresponding latching countermeasures (eg latching receptacles) in the lid. Such a latching mechanism, in addition to its simple design, has the further advantage that it is also able to latch the condensate filter automatically in the lid when the condensate collecting container is inserted into the drawer of the dryer, if this has not already been done previously , The automatic latching is due to the fact that the condensate filter is pressed by the low gap height between the lid and the insertion compartment of the dryer in the lid.

LIST OF REFERENCE NUMBERS

1

dryer

2

drying chamber

3

Laundry

4

Process air duct

5

heat sink

6

condensate line

7

condensate pump

8th

condensate tank

9

filter cartridge

10

opening

11

filter

12

liquid line

13

Valve

14

distributor

15

heat source

16

compressor

17

throttle

18

fan

108

condensate tank

109

condensate filter

110

condensate inlet

110a

Condensate inlet area

120

container body

121

cover

127

Handle

128

rib

129a

first condensate chamber

129b

second condensate chamber

130

flow channel

131

condensate drain

132

guide

133

screen frame

134

scree

135

Handle

136

Locking lever

137

head Start

138

nose

139

eccentric

140a

symbol

140b

symbol

141

slot

142

recess

208

condensate tank

209

condensate filter

210

condensate inlet

210a

Condensate inlet area

220

container body

221

cover

230

flow channel

233

screen frame

234

scree

235

Handle

241

slot

243

marsh rib

244

locking lug

245

latching receptacle

246

lowered portion of the rib

247

other edge of the rib

QUOTES INCLUDE IN THE DESCRIPTION

This list of the documents listed by the applicant has been generated automatically and is included solely for the better information of the reader. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA assumes no liability for any errors or omissions.

Cited patent literature

• DE 3738031 C2 [0002, 0004]
• WO 2007/093461 A1 [0002]
• WO 2007/093467 A1 [0002]
• WO 2007/093468 A1 [0002]

Claims (15)

Condensate tank ( 108 ; 208 ) for a clothes dryer ( 1 ), comprising a condensate inlet ( 110 ; 210 ) and a condensate drain ( 131 ), characterized in that the condensate collecting tank ( 108 ; 208 ) a condensate filter ( 109 ; 209 ) with at least one sieve ( 134 ; 234 ), which is fluidically connected between the condensate inlet ( 110 ; 210 ) and the condensate drain ( 131 ) is arranged. Condensate tank ( 108 ) according to claim 1, characterized in that the condensate filter ( 109 ) in a flow channel ( 130 ) between the condensate inlet ( 110 ) and the condensate drain ( 131 ) is arranged. Condensate tank ( 108 ; 208 ) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the condensate filter ( 109 ; 209 ) at least one substantially planar sheet ( 134 ; 234 ) having. Condensate tank ( 108 ; 208 ) according to claims 2 and 3, characterized in that the at least one planar area sieve ( 134 ; 234 ) is aligned substantially orthogonal to a flow direction of the condensate. Condensate tank ( 108 ; 208 ) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the condensate filter ( 109 ; 209 ) is removable. Condensate tank ( 108 ; 208 ) according to claim 5, characterized in that the condensate filter ( 109 ; 209 ) into a slot ( 141 ) in a lid ( 121 ; 221 ) of the condensate collecting tank ( 108 ; 208 ) and can be removed therefrom. Condensate tank ( 108 ; 208 ) according to one of claims 5 or 6, characterized in that the condensate filter ( 109 ; 209 ) on the condensate collector ( 108 ; 208 ), in particular covers ( 121 ; 221 ), lockable. Condensate tank ( 108 ) according to one of claims 5 to 7, characterized in that the condensate filter ( 109 ) a handle ( 135 ) for removal from the condensate collection container ( 108 ) having. Condensate tank ( 108 ) according to claims 7 and 8, characterized in that the handle ( 135 ) on a filter holder ( 133 ) and the condensate filter ( 109 ) depending on a position of the handle ( 135 ) on the condensate filter ( 109 ) is optionally lockable and unlocked. Condensate tank ( 108 ) according to claim 9, characterized in that the handle ( 135 ) with a locking lever ( 136 ) equipped with the locked condensate filter ( 109 ) into the condensate collection tank ( 108 ) presses. Condensate tank ( 108 ) according to claim 10, characterized in that the locking lever ( 136 ) at least one eccentric element ( 139 ) having. Condensate tank ( 108 ) according to one of claims 9 to 11, characterized in that the condensate collecting tank ( 108 ) from the laundry drying device ( 1 ) and the condensate filter ( 109 ) on the condensate filter ( 109 ) is locked, if the handle ( 135 ) to the condensate collector ( 108 ) is turned. Condensate tank ( 208 ) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the condensate filter ( 209 ) on the condensate collector ( 208 ), in particular covers ( 221 ), releasably latched. Condensate tank ( 208 ) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the condensate filter ( 209 ) has on its underside a directed against the flow direction rib. Laundry drying machine ( 1 ), which contains a condensate collector ( 108 ; 208 ) comprising a condensate inlet ( 110 ; 210 ) and a condensate drain ( 131 ), characterized in that the condensate collecting tank ( 108 ; 208 ) a condensate filter ( 109 ; 209 ) with at least one sieve ( 134 ; 234 ), which is fluidically connected between the condensate inlet ( 110 ; 210 ) and the condensate drain ( 131 ) is arranged.

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