U.S. patent application number 13/989913 was filed with the patent office on 2014-05-29 for tumble dryer with a humidity sensor system.
This patent application is currently assigned to ELECTROLUX HOME PRODUCTS CORPORATION N.V.. The applicant listed for this patent is Diego Dal Ben, Marco Santarossa. Invention is credited to Diego Dal Ben, Marco Santarossa.
Application Number | 20140144038 13/989913 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 44025216 |
Filed Date | 2014-05-29 |
United States Patent
Application |
20140144038 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Santarossa; Marco ; et
al. |
May 29, 2014 |
TUMBLE DRYER WITH A HUMIDITY SENSOR SYSTEM
Abstract
A tumble dryer includes: a laundry drum for loading/unloading
the laundry; a humidity sensor system with at least one support for
two or more electrodes, electrically insulated from one an-other
and positioned in such a way that the electrodes are placed into or
face the inside of the laundry drum, so as to contact the laundry
loaded into the latter. The electrodes are electrically connected
or connectable to a detection circuit and/or a control unit of the
tumble dryer. Advantageously the support comprises at least two
seats or channels for receiving the electrodes. Each seat or
channel comprises at least one retaining element adapted for
retaining a respective electrode the seat or channel.
Inventors: |
Santarossa; Marco; (S.
Quirino, IT) ; Dal Ben; Diego; (Zoppola, IT) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Santarossa; Marco
Dal Ben; Diego |
S. Quirino
Zoppola |
|
IT
IT |
|
|
Assignee: |
ELECTROLUX HOME PRODUCTS
CORPORATION N.V.
Brussels
BE
|
Family ID: |
44025216 |
Appl. No.: |
13/989913 |
Filed: |
November 28, 2011 |
PCT Filed: |
November 28, 2011 |
PCT NO: |
PCT/EP11/71142 |
371 Date: |
January 27, 2014 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
34/108 |
Current CPC
Class: |
D06F 58/02 20130101;
D06F 58/30 20200201 |
Class at
Publication: |
34/108 |
International
Class: |
D06F 58/28 20060101
D06F058/28; D06F 58/02 20060101 D06F058/02 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Nov 29, 2010 |
EP |
10192892.7 |
Claims
1. A tumble dryer comprising: a laundry drum for loading/unloading
the laundry; a humidity sensor system comprising at least one
support for two or more electrodes, electrically insulated from one
another and positioned in such a way that said electrodes are
placed into or face the inside of said laundry drum, so as to
contact the laundry loaded into the latter, said electrodes being
electrically connected or connectable to a detection circuit and/or
a control unit of the tumble dryer, wherein said support comprises
at least two seat or channels for receiving said electrodes, each
seat or channel comprises at least one retaining element adapted
for retaining a respective electrode into said seat or channel.
2. The tumble dryer according to claim 1, wherein said at least one
retaining element is obtained in a single piece construction with
the respective seat or channel.
3. The tumble dryer according to claim 1, wherein said at least one
retaining element protrudes from the side wall of the respective
seat channel towards the inside of said seat channel.
4. The tumble dryer according to claim 1, wherein said electrodes
comprise a lateral border and wherein said at least one retaining
element is arranged in such a way to extend over the border of the
respective electrode when the latter is placed into the respective
seat or channel, so as to clamp said border and to fix said
electrode into said seat or channel.
5. The tumble dryer according to claim 1, wherein said electrodes
comprise a first appendix or end inserted in or insertable into a
first opening obtained in a portion of the respective seat of
channel, so that said first appendix or end protrudes externally
from said seat or channel.
6. The tumble dryer according to claim 5, wherein said first
appendix or end is connected or connectable to electric connections
for connecting said electrode to said detection circuit and/or
control unit.
7. The tumble dryer according to claim 1, wherein a second end of
said electrodes is inserted in or insertable into a second opening
obtained in the respective seat or channel.
8. The tumble dryer according to claim 1, wherein said electrodes
and said respective channels have an elongated shape.
9. The tumble dryer according to claim 8, wherein each electrode is
moveable within a respective channel about a predetermined length
and along the common longitudinal axis of the electrode and
channel.
10. The tumble dryer according to claim 1, wherein said electrode
comprises a lateral border comprising at least one cut in order to
overcome said at least one retaining element during inserting said
electrode into the respective seat or channel.
11. The tumble dryer according to claim 10, wherein the cut is
arranged at the border in such a way that, after inserting said
electrode into the respective seat or channel, said at least one
retaining element (overlaps said border and keeps the electrode
within the seat or channel after the electrode has been properly
moved internally to said seat or channel.
12. The tumble dryer according to claim 1, wherein said support is
associated to, or associable to, or comprised into a front wall or
flange or bulkhead associated to the casing of said tumble
drier.
13. A tumble dryer comprising: a laundry drum for loading/unloading
the laundry; a humidity sensor system comprising at least one
support for two or more electrodes, electrically insulated from one
another and positioned in such a way that said electrodes are
placed into or face the inside of said laundry drum, so as to
contact the laundry loaded into the latter, said electrodes being
electrically connected or connectable to a detection circuit and/or
a control unit of the tumble dryer, wherein the support is attached
or attachable at a seat arranged in an inner side wall or flange or
bulkhead comprised or contained in the casing of said tumble drier,
at least one hole is arranged in the inner side wall or flange or
bulkhead for conducting electric cables connecting the electrodes
to said detection circuit and/or control unit, and said support
comprises at least one appendix or wing for covering at least
partially said hole.
14. The tumble dryer according to claim 13, wherein said appendix
wing is formed as a protruding sheet.
15. The tumble dryer according to claim 14, wherein said seat is
complementary to said support, so that said support is form-locking
within the inner side wall or flange or bulkhead of an air stream
channel.
16. The tumble dryer according to claim 2, wherein said at least
one retaining element protrudes from the side wall of the
respective seat channel towards the inside of said seat
channel.
17. The tumble dryer according to claim 2, wherein said electrodes
comprise a lateral border and wherein said at least one retaining
element is arranged in such a way to extend over the border of the
respective electrode when the latter is placed into the respective
seat or channel, so as to clamp said border and to fix said
electrode into said seat or channel.
18. The tumble dryer according to claim 3, wherein said electrodes
comprise a lateral border and wherein said at least one retaining
element is arranged in such a way to extend over the border of the
respective electrode when the latter is placed into the respective
seat or channel, so as to clamp said border and to fix said
electrode into said seat or channel.
19. The tumble dryer according to claim 2, wherein said electrodes
comprise a first appendix or end inserted in or insertable into a
first opening obtained in a portion of the respective seat of
channel, so that said first appendix or end protrudes externally
from said seat or channel.
20. The tumble dryer according to claim 3, wherein said electrodes
comprise a first appendix or end inserted in or insertable into a
first opening obtained in a portion of the respective seat of
channel, so that said first appendix or end protrudes externally
from said seat or channel.
Description
[0001] The present invention relates to a tumble dryer with a
humidity sensor system.
[0002] Tumble dryers and other domestic appliances, e.g.
spinner-washers, require a humidity sensor in order to obtain
information about the actual humidity of the laundry in the drum or
of the air exiting the latter. This information is used for
controlling the tumble dryer, e.g. for stopping the drying cycle
when the detected humidity of the laundry is below a prefixed
value.
[0003] DE 195 21 625 C1 discloses a humidity sensor for a tumble
dryer. The humidity sensor includes a pair of contact stripes
fastened at a plastic wall of the air channel. One end of the strip
has a particular shape and forms a spring engaging a hole obtained
in the wall. The costs of these electrodes are high, since elastic
as well as conductive metal is required. Moreover, the thermal
deformations of the electrodes due to the high variations of the
temperature in the dryer may cause that the elasticity of the
spring end is reduced. This results that the fastening of the
electrode should be compromised.
[0004] U.S. Pat. No. 3,593,571 discloses a dryness sensor assembly
including a pair of electrodes. The fixation of the electrodes
requires clip means. Thus, this dryness sensor assembly is relative
expensive and the installation of this dryness sensor assembly is
time-consuming.
[0005] U.S. Pat. No. 4,899,464 discloses a moisture sensor for an
automatic tumble dryer. Sensor strips are secured directly to the
drum. The fastening of the sensor strips is less effective. The
assembly of the sensor strips is quite difficult, since after
placing the first end of the sensor strips in a corresponding
aperture, the introducing of the second end in the corresponding
aperture the sensor strip or at least its second end has to be bent
with the risk of damaging it.
[0006] It is an object of the present invention to provide a tumble
dryer with an improved humidity sensor system, which overcomes the
above disadvantages.
[0007] The object of the present invention is achieved by the
tumble dryer with the humidity sensor system according to claim
1.
[0008] According to the present invention the tumble dryer
comprises: [0009] a laundry drum for loading/unloading the laundry;
[0010] a humidity sensor system comprising at least one support for
two or more electrodes, electrically insulated one another and
positioned in such a way that the electrodes are placed into or
face the internal of the laundry drum, so as to contact the laundry
loaded into the latter, the electrodes being electrically connected
or connectable to a detection circuit and/or a control unit of the
tumble dryer.
[0011] Advantageously the support comprises at least two seats or
channels for receiving the electrodes; each seat or channel
comprises at least one retaining element adapted for retaining a
respective electrode into the seat or channel.
[0012] Advantageously, the at least one retaining element may be
obtained in a single piece construction with the respective seat or
channel.
[0013] Preferably the at least one retaining element protrudes from
the side wall of the respective seat or channel towards the
internal of the seat or channel.
[0014] Opportunely, the electrodes comprise a lateral border and
the at least one retaining element is arranged in such a way to
extend over the border of the respective electrode when the latter
is placed into the respective seat or channel, so as to clamp the
border and to fix the electrode into the seat or channel.
[0015] Preferably the electrodes comprise a first appendix or end
inserted in or insertable into a first opening obtained in a
portion of the respective seat or channel, so that the first
appendix or end protrudes externally from the seat or channel.
[0016] Advantageously the first appendix or end is connected or
connectable to electric connections for connecting the electrode to
the detection circuit and/or control unit.
[0017] In a further embodiment, a second end of the electrodes is
inserted in or insertable into a second opening obtained in the
respective seat or channel.
[0018] Preferably the electrodes and the respective channels have
an elongated shape.
[0019] Advantageously each electrode is moveable within a
respective seat or channel about a predetermined length and along
the common longitudinal axis of the electrode and seat or
channel.
[0020] Preferably the electrode comprises a lateral border
comprising at least one cut in order to overcome the at least one
retaining element during inserting the electrode into the
respective seat or channel.
[0021] Opportunely the cut is arranged at the border in such a way
that, after inserting the electrode into the respective seat or
channel, the at least one retaining element overlaps the border and
keeps the electrode within the seat or channel after the electrode
has been properly moved internally to the seat or channel.
[0022] Preferably the support is associated to, or associable to,
or comprised into a front wall or flange or bulkhead associated to
the casing of the tumble drier.
[0023] According to another aspect of the present invention the
electrode is at least partially disappearing within the channel,
wherein said electrode is clampable by the retaining element of the
channel and the border of electrode. The electrode advantageously
requires no material with special mechanical properties.
[0024] Advantageously, the electrode is moveable within the channel
about a predetermined length and along the common longitudinal axis
of the electrode and channel.
[0025] Preferably, at least one end of the electrode is inserted in
or insertable into an opening in an end portion of the channel. In
a similar way, both ends of the electrode may preferably be
inserted in or insertable into openings in the both end portions of
the channel.
[0026] Advantageously, at least one end of the electrode is longer
than the predetermined length defining the movability of the
electrode within the channel along the common longitudinal axis. At
first the longer electrode is inserted into the corresponding
opening. Then the other electrode is inserted into the opposite
opening. At last, the electrode is moved into the direction of said
other electrode.
[0027] According to a preferred embodiment of the present
invention, the retaining element extends from the longitudinal side
wall of the channel inside said seat or channel and perpendicular
to the longitudinal axis of the seat or channel.
[0028] Additionally, the seat or channel may comprise at least one
recess corresponding with the retaining element, so that the border
of the electrode is clampable between the retaining element and
said recess.
[0029] Further, the border of the electrode may comprise at least
one cut in order to overcome the retaining element during inserting
said electrode into the channel. The cut simplifies the inserting
of the electrode into the channel.
[0030] Preferably, the cut is arranged at the border, so that the
retaining element supports the border and keeps the electrode
within the seat or channel after the electrode has been moved about
the predetermined length and along the common longitudinal axis.
This is an efficient latching mechanism.
[0031] Preferably, a main part of the electrode is formed as a
U-shaped profile section. This contributes to an increased
stability and allows that a substantial part of the electrode is
exposed to the contact with the laundry loaded into the drum.
[0032] In a further aspect, the invention relates to a tumble dryer
comprising: [0033] a laundry drum for loading/unloading the
laundry; [0034] a humidity sensor system comprising at least one
support for two or more electrodes, electrically insulated one
another and positioned in such a way that the electrodes are placed
into or face the internal of the laundry drum, so as to contact the
laundry loaded into the latter, the electrodes being electrically
connected or connectable to a detection circuit and/or a control
unit of the tumble dryer.
[0035] Advantageously the support is attached or attachable at a
seat arranged in an inner side wall or flange or bulkhead comprised
or contained in the casing of the tumble drier; at least one hole
is advantageously arranged in the inner side wall or flange or
bulkhead for conducting electric cables connecting the electrodes
to the detection circuit and/or control unit; the support comprises
at least one appendix or wing for covering at least partially the
hole.
[0036] Preferably the appendix or wing is formed as a protruding
sheet.
[0037] Opportunely the seat is complementary to the support, so
that the support is form-locking within the inner side wall or
flange or bulkhead.
[0038] According to another aspect of the invention, the support is
attached or attachable at a seat arranged in an inner side wall of
the air stream channel, at least one hole is arranged in the inner
side wall of the air stream channel for conducting electric cables
connecting the electrodes to the detection circuit and/or control
unit of the tumble dryer, and the support comprises at least one
wing for covering at least partially this hole.
[0039] The wing is provided to obstruct at least partially a
clearance between the hole and the support in order to prevent that
moisture enters said clearance. This reduces the risk of damage the
electronic components arranged downstream the hole.
[0040] Preferably, the wing is formed as a protruding sheet.
[0041] Further, the seat is complementary to the support, so that
the support is form-locking within the inner side wall of an air
stream channel.
[0042] Advantageously, the support may be attached or attachable at
a flange enclosing an opening of the tumble dryer.
[0043] The novel and inventive features believed to be the
characteristic of the present invention are set forth in the
appended claims.
[0044] The invention will be described in further detail with
reference to the drawings, in which
[0045] FIG. 1 illustrates a sectional side view of a tumble dryer
including a humidity sensor system according to a first embodiment
of the present invention,
[0046] FIG. 2 illustrates a sectional side view of the humidity
sensor system according to the first embodiment of the present
invention,
[0047] FIG. 3 illustrates a perspective rear view of a front wall
for the tumble dryer including the humidity sensor system according
to the first embodiment of the present invention,
[0048] FIG. 4 illustrates a perspective view of a support of the
humidity sensor system according to the first embodiment of the
present invention,
[0049] FIG. 5 illustrates a perspective view of the support and an
electrode of the humidity sensor system according to the first
embodiment of the present invention, in a condition in which the
electrode is not associated to the support,
[0050] FIG. 6 illustrates a further perspective view of the support
and the electrode of the humidity sensor system of FIG. 5,
[0051] FIG. 7 illustrates a perspective view of the support and the
partially inserted electrode of the humidity sensor system
according to the first embodiment of the present invention,
[0052] FIG. 8 illustrates a perspective rear view of the support
and the partially inserted electrode of the humidity sensor system
according to the first embodiment of the present invention,
[0053] FIG. 9 illustrates a perspective view of the support and the
inserted electrode of the humidity sensor system according to the
first embodiment of the present invention,
[0054] FIG. 10 illustrates a perspective view of the support and
the finally mounted electrode of the humidity sensor system
according to the first embodiment of the present invention,
[0055] FIG. 11 illustrates a perspective rear view of the support
and the finally mounted electrode of the humidity sensor system
according to the first embodiment of the present invention,
[0056] FIG. 12 illustrates a perspective view of the support and
two finally mounted electrodes of the humidity sensor system
according to the first embodiment of the present invention,
[0057] FIG. 13 illustrates a sectional side view at line A-A in
FIG. 12 of the support and the two finally mounted electrodes of
the humidity sensor system according to the first embodiment of the
present invention,
[0058] FIG. 14a illustrates a perspective view of the electrode of
the humidity sensor system according to a second embodiment of the
present invention,
[0059] FIG. 14b illustrates a detailed perspective view of the
electrode of the humidity sensor system of FIG. 14a according to
the second embodiment of the present invention,
[0060] FIG. 15a illustrates a perspective view of the support and
the one inserted electrode of the humidity sensor system according
to the second embodiment of the present invention,
[0061] FIG. 15b illustrates a detailed perspective view of the
support and the one inserted electrode of the humidity sensor
system of FIG. 15a according to the second embodiment of the
present invention,
[0062] FIG. 16 illustrates a sectional side view at line B-B in
FIG. 15a of the support and the one inserted electrode of the
humidity sensor system according to the second embodiment of the
present invention,
[0063] FIG. 17a illustrates a perspective view of the support and
one finally mounted electrode of the humidity sensor system
according to the second embodiment of the present invention,
[0064] FIG. 17b illustrates a detailed perspective view of the
support and the one finally mounted electrode of the humidity
sensor system of FIG. 15a according to the second embodiment of the
present invention,
[0065] FIG. 18 illustrates a sectional side view at line C-C in
FIG. 17a of the support and the one finally mounted electrode of
the humidity sensor system according to the second embodiment of
the present invention,
[0066] FIG. 19 illustrates a perspective rear view of the front
wall of the tumble dryer provided for the humidity sensor system
according to an embodiment of the present invention,
[0067] FIG. 20 illustrates a perspective front view of the front
wall of FIG. 19,
[0068] FIG. 21 illustrates a perspective front view of a lower
portion of the front wall of FIG. 18,
[0069] FIG. 22 illustrates a perspective rear view of the front
wall of FIG. 19 with the humidity sensor system in a semi-mounted
state,
[0070] FIG. 23 illustrates a perspective front view of the lower
portion of the front of FIG. 22 wall with the humidity sensor
system in a semi-mounted state,
[0071] FIG. 24 illustrates a perspective rear view of the lower
portion of the front wall of FIG. 19 with the humidity sensor
system in a mounted state,
[0072] FIG. 25 illustrates a perspective front view of the lower
portion of the front wall of FIG. 24,
[0073] FIG. 26 illustrates a front view of the front wall with the
humidity sensor system in a mounted state,
[0074] FIG. 27 illustrates an enlarged detail of FIG. 26,
[0075] FIG. 28 illustrates a rear view of the front wall with the
humidity sensor system in a mounted state, and
[0076] FIG. 29 illustrates a sectional view at line D-D in FIG.
27.
[0077] FIG. 1 illustrates a sectional side view of a tumble dryer
10 including a humidity sensor system according to a first
embodiment of the present invention.
[0078] The tumble dryer 10 advantageously comprises a casing 12
with a loading/unloading opening preferably at its front side. This
opening is closable by a door 16. A laundry drum 14 is rotatably
arranged inside the casing 12. The open front side of the laundry
drum 14 is advantageously sealed by a gasket 28 fixed preferably to
a frontal wall or flange or bulkhead 26 which is associated to the
casing 12, preferably frontally, and which preferably encloses the
loading/unloading opening of the tumble dryer 10; advantageously
the frontal edge of the laundry drum 14 is in contact to and slides
on the gasket 28, so as to guarantee a rotatable airtight
connection between the laundry drum 14 and the gasket 28.
[0079] The tumble drier 10 is arranged in such a way that an air
stream 18 may circulate between the laundry drum 14 and an air
stream channel 20. The air stream channel 20 extends preferably
below and behind the laundry drum 14; advantageously the frontal
wall or flange or bulkhead 26 is comprised in the air stream
channel 20.
[0080] A condenser 22 is preferably arranged within the air stream
channel 20, advantageously but not necessarily below the laundry
drum 14.
[0081] During operation of the tumble drier, the air stream 18,
advantageously heated before entering the laundry drum 14,
circulates through the laundry drum 14 and the air stream channel
20, so as to remove the moisture from the laundry loaded into the
laundry drum 14. The condenser 22 cools down the air stream 18
exiting from the laundry drum 14 and removes moisture from the air
stream 18. After passing the condenser 22, the air stream 18 is
heated up again within the air stream channel 20, for example by an
electric heater or a heat pump system. Then, the air stream 18 is
introduced into the laundry drum 14 again. Thus, the air stream 18
circulates within a closed loop.
[0082] Alternatively, the present invention may be applied to a
vented tumble dryer, wherein the hot and humid air stream 18
exiting the laundry drum 14 is blown to the environment without
recirculation.
[0083] As mentioned above, the loading/unloading opening of the
tumble dryer 10 is enclosed (or surrounded) by a front wall or
flange or bulkhead 26.
[0084] The tumble drier 10 comprises a support 24 for two or more
electrodes 30, electrically insulated one another, which is
positioned in such a way that the electrodes 30 are placed into or
faces the internal of the laundry drum 14, so as to contact the
laundry loaded into the latter.
[0085] Preferably the support 24 is attached at a lower portion of
the front wall or flange or bulkhead 26. In this case the support
24 is arranged internally or in proximity to laundry drum 14,
preferably but not necessarily in correspondence to the inlet of
the air stream channel 20. The support 24 is advantageously a part
of the humidity sensor system.
[0086] Advantageously, the support 24 may be obtained in a single
piece construction with the front wall or flange or bulkhead 26
(i.e. it may be part of the front wall or flange or bulkhead 26);
alternatively, the support 24 and the front wall or flange or
bulkhead 26 may be advantageously obtained as a completely separate
components, and they may be associated one another after their
manufacture.
[0087] FIG. 2 illustrates a sectional side view of the humidity
sensor system according to the first embodiment of the present
invention. The support 24 may be advantageously attached at the
lower portion of the front wall or flange or bulkhead 26 (or in a
further embodiment the support 24 and the front wall or flange or
bulkhead 26 may be obtained in a single piece construction).
[0088] As mentioned above, two (or more) electrodes 30 are
advantageously attached at the support 24; advantageously the
electrodes 30 are electrically insulated one another. It is clear
that in a further embodiment, not illustrated, the support 24 may
be also defined as the part of the front wall or flange or bulkhead
26 to which the electrodes 30 are associated, and therefore they
are not proper distinguish components as in the enclosed
figures.
[0089] Advantageously the electrodes 30 are provided for detecting
the humidity of the laundry loaded into the laundry drum 14; when a
piece of laundry touches both the electrodes, the electrical
impedance between the electrodes changes, and can be detected by a
suitable detection circuit to which the electrodes are electrically
connected. Advantageously the detection circuit detects the
humidity of the laundry as a function of the electrical impedance
(or of a quantity related to the impedance) between the electrodes
30.
[0090] The electrodes 30 advantageously have a predetermined
distance from each other.
[0091] FIG. 3 illustrates a perspective rear view of a front wall
or flange or bulkhead 26 of the tumble dryer 10 including the
humidity sensor system according to the first embodiment of the
present invention. In particular, FIG. 3 shows the flange 26
enclosing the opening of the tumble dryer 10. A light source 34 may
preferably, but not necessarily, be arranged at the upper portion
of the front wall or flange or bulkhead 26. The light source 34 is
provided for illuminating the inner space of the laundry drum
14.
[0092] The support 24 is preferably attached at the lower portion
of the flange 26, for example by screws. To this, the support 24
preferably comprises corresponding screw holes 36.
[0093] In FIG. 3 one of the two electrodes 30 is shown. The support
24 comprises two seat or channels 32, having preferably an
elongated shape, for receiving one electrode 30 in each case. The
channel 32 is substantially complementary to at least part of the
electrode 30. The electrodes 30 as well as the channels 32 are
preferably curved. The support 24 is preferably made of an
electrically insulating material, so that the two electrodes 30 are
electrically insulated from each other. For example, support 24 is
made of plastics.
[0094] FIG. 4 illustrates a perspective view of the support 24 of
the humidity sensor system according to the first embodiment of the
present invention; in FIG. 4 the electrodes are not shown.
[0095] Each channel or seat 32 advantageously comprises a first
opening 48 at one of its ends, and preferably, but not necessarily,
also a second opening 50 at its other end.
[0096] Further, each seat or channel 32 preferably comprises at
least a retaining element 52 adapted for retaining a respective
electrode 30 into the seat or channel 32.
[0097] Advantageously the retaining element 52 may be placed at a
longitudinal side of the channel 32, preferably, but not
necessarily, at a lower longitudinal side. The retaining element 52
preferably projects towards the internal of the channel 32.
[0098] FIG. 5 illustrates a perspective view of the support 24 and
the electrode 30 of the humidity sensor system according to the
first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 5 clarifies the
relationship between the electrode 30 and the corresponding channel
32.
[0099] The electrodes 30 may advantageously include a first
appendix or end 38, a second appendix or end 40, a main part 42 and
a lateral border 44.
[0100] Advantageously the first end 38 of the electrodes is adapted
to be connected to suitable electric connections for connecting the
electrode to a detection circuit or to the control unit of the
tumble dryer.
[0101] The second end 40 may advantageously comprise a hole 46. The
first end 38 is provided for an inserting into the first opening 48
of the channel 32. The second end 40 may be advantageously provided
for a subsequent inserting into the second opening 48 (if the
latter is provided) of the channel 32.
[0102] FIG. 6 illustrates a further perspective view of the support
24 and the electrode 30 of the humidity sensor system according to
the first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 6 clarifies the
first step of insertion the electrode 30 into the channel 32. The
first end 38 shall be inserted into the first opening 48 of the
channel 32 of the support 24.
[0103] FIG. 7 illustrates a perspective view of the support 24 and
the partially inserted electrode 30 of the humidity sensor system
according to the first embodiment of the present invention. In FIG.
7 the first end 38 of the electrode 30 is inserted in the first
opening 48 of the channel 32 of the support 24.
[0104] FIG. 8 illustrates a perspective rear view of the support 24
and the partially inserted electrode 30 of the humidity sensor
system according to the first embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 8 shows the rear side of the support 24. FIG. 8 clarifies that
the first end 38 of the electrode 30 penetrates the first opening
48 of the channel 32 of the support 24.
[0105] FIG. 9 illustrates a perspective view of the support 24 and
the inserted electrode 30 of the humidity sensor system according
to the first embodiment of the present invention. In FIG. 9 the
electrode 30 is inserted in the channel 32, but the second end 40
of the electrode 30 is not yet inserted into the second opening 50
of the channel 32 (clearly the latter statement refers only to an
embodiment, as the one illustrated in enclosed figures, in which
the second opening 50 is provided).
[0106] FIG. 10 illustrates a perspective view of the support 24 and
the finally mounted electrode 32 of the humidity sensor system
according to the first embodiment of the present invention. In FIG.
10 the electrode 30 has been moved rightward with reference to FIG.
9, so that the second end 40 of the electrode 30 is inserted in the
second opening 50 of the channel 32. In this situation, the first
end 38 of the electrode 30 is still inserted in the first opening
48 of the channel 32.
[0107] FIG. 11 illustrates a perspective rear view of the support
24 and the finally mounted electrode 30 of the humidity sensor
system according to the first embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 11 clarifies that in this embodiment the first end 38 of the
electrode 30 is inserted in the first opening 48 of the channel 32
and at the same time the second end 40 of the electrode 30 is
inserted in the second opening 50 of the channel 32.
[0108] FIG. 12 illustrates a perspective view of the support 24 and
two finally mounted electrodes 30 of the humidity sensor system
according to the first embodiment of the present invention. In FIG.
12 both electrodes 30 are inserted in the corresponding channels
32. Further, both electrodes 30 have been moved rightward within
the corresponding channels 32, so that their second ends 40 are
inserted in the second opening 50 of the respective channel 32.
[0109] FIG. 13 illustrates a sectional side view at line A-A in
FIG. 12 of the support 24 and the two finally mounted electrodes 30
of the humidity sensor system according to the first embodiment of
the present invention. FIG. 13 clarifies that at last the retaining
element 52 effects the fixation of the electrodes 30 within the
channels 32.
[0110] FIG. 14a illustrates a perspective view of the electrode 30
of the humidity sensor system according to a second embodiment of
the present invention. The electrodes 30 of the second embodiment
have substantially the same properties as those of the first
embodiment.
[0111] Additionally, the electrode 30 of the second embodiment
comprises at least one cut 54 in their border 44. The cut 54
corresponds with the retaining element 52 insofar, as this cut 54
overcomes the retaining element 52 during inserting the electrode
30 into the channel 32. In the first embodiment the retaining
element 52 forms a small barrier for the lower border 44 of the
electrode 30. Clearly, more than one retaining element 52 may be
provided for each channel 32; in this case more than one cuts 54
(or also one or more cuts adapted to overcome more than one
retaining element 52) may be correspondently provided in each
electrode 30.
[0112] With reference to the second embodiment disclosed in FIGS.
14a to 18, the electrode 30 can be inserted in a simple way into
the channel 32. The position of the cut 54 is substantially the
same as that of the retaining element 52, when the first end 38 of
the electrode 30 is completely inserted in the first opening 48 of
the channel 32. The electrode may be afterwards moved (for example
rightward with reference to FIG. 15a), until the retaining element
52 supports (overlaps) the border 44.
[0113] FIG. 14b illustrates a detailed perspective view of the
electrode 30 of the humidity sensor system of FIG. 14a according to
the second embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 14b clarifies
a possible geometric structure of the cut 54.
[0114] FIG. 15a illustrates a perspective view of the support 24
and one inserted electrode 30 of the humidity sensor system
according to the second embodiment of the present invention. The
electrode 30 is inserted in the channel 32, and the first end 38 is
completely inserted in the first opening 48 of the channel 32. In
this situation, the cut 54 and the retaining element 52 are at the
same position. FIG. 15a clarifies that in this condition the cut 54
overcomes the retaining element 52.
[0115] FIG. 15b illustrates a detailed perspective view of the
support 24 and the one inserted electrode 30 of the humidity sensor
system according to symbol X in FIG. 15a. The size of the cut 54
preferably substantially corresponds with the size of the retaining
element 52. More in general, the size of the cut 54 is such that
the retaining element 52 may at least partially enter the cut
54.
[0116] FIG. 16 illustrates a sectional side view at line B-B in
FIG. 15a of the support 24 and the one inserted electrode 30 of the
humidity sensor system according to the second embodiment of the
present invention. The retaining element 52 may have for example
the form of a tooth.
[0117] FIG. 17a illustrates a perspective view of the support 24
and the finally mounted electrode 30 of the humidity sensor system
according to the second embodiment of the present invention. FIG.
17a is different form FIG. 15a in that the electrode 30 has been
moved rightward. In this condition the retaining element 52
overlaps the border 44 of the electrode 30, so as to retain the
latter into the channel 32.
[0118] FIG. 17b illustrates a detailed perspective view of the
support 24 and the one finally mounted electrode 30 of the humidity
sensor system according to symbol Y in FIG. 17a. FIG. 17b clarifies
that the cut 54 has been moved rightward and the retaining element
overlaps the lower border 44 of the electrode 30.
[0119] FIG. 18 illustrates a sectional side view at line C-C in
FIG. 17a of the support 24 and the one finally mounted electrode 30
of the humidity sensor system according to the second embodiment of
the present invention. In FIG. 18 the lower border 44 of the
electrode 30 is arranged below the retaining element 52.
[0120] FIG. 19 illustrates a perspective rear view of the front
wall or flange or bulkhead 26 of the tumble dryer 10 provided for
the humidity sensor system according to a further embodiment of the
present invention. This embodiment of the present invention may be
preferably but not necessarily combined with the first embodiment
as well as with the second embodiment of the present invention.
Alternatively, also a different humidity sensor system (in which
for example the electrodes are fixed to the support by gluing or by
welding) may be used with the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 19 to
29.
[0121] The front wall or flange or bulkhead 26 preferably comprises
a seat 56 provided for fastening the support 24, which is not shown
in FIG. 19. The seat 56 advantageously includes a hole 58 for the
passage of the electric cables 62 which connects the electrodes 30
to the detection circuit or control unit of the tumble dryer.
[0122] FIG. 20 illustrates a perspective front view of the front
wall or flange or bulkhead 26. FIG. 20 shows the other side of the
front wall or flange or bulkhead 26 with respect to FIG. 19.
[0123] FIG. 21 illustrates a perspective front view of a portion of
the front wall or flange or bulkhead 26 provided for a humidity
sensor system. The electric cables 62 advantageously penetrate the
hole 58.
[0124] FIG. 22 illustrates a perspective rear view of the front
wall or flange or bulkhead 26 with the semi-mounted support 24 of
the humidity sensor system. The seat 56 is adapted to lodge the
support 24.
[0125] FIG. 23 illustrates a perspective front view of the portion
of the front wall or flange or bulkhead 26 illustrated in FIG.
22.
[0126] The support 24 preferably includes an appendix or wing 60
(illustrated also in FIGS. 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 15a, 17a)
protruding from a distal end of the support 24. In the mounted
state of the support 24, the appendix or wing 60 is placed in the
hole 58. The wing 60 obstructs at least partially the clearance
between the hole 58 and the support 24 in order to prevent that
moisture enters this clearance. This reduces the risk of damage the
electronic components arranged downstream the hole 58.
[0127] At first the electric cables 62 are fixed to the electrodes
30. Then the wing 60 is inserted into the hole 58, and finally the
support 24 is rotated so as to place it into the seat 56. At last,
the support 24 is fixed to the wall or flange or bulkhead 26, for
example by screws in the screw holes 36.
[0128] FIG. 24 illustrates a perspective rear view of the lower
portion of the front wall or flange or bulkhead 26 with the support
24 mounted.
[0129] FIG. 25 illustrates a perspective front view of the lower
portion of the front wall or flange or bulkhead 26 with the support
24 mounted. FIG. 25 is the opposite side with respect to FIG.
24.
[0130] FIG. 26 illustrates a front view of the front wall or flange
or bulkhead 26 with the support 24 mounted. The wing 60 is
recognizable from the front side.
[0131] FIG. 27 illustrates a detail of FIG. 26.
[0132] FIG. 28 illustrates a rear view of the front wall or flange
or bulkhead 26 with the support 24 mounted.
[0133] FIG. 29 illustrates a sectional view at line D-D in FIG. 27.
FIG. 29 clarifies the arrangement of the support 24 and the wing 60
with respect to the flange 26.
[0134] Although the present invention relates to a tumble dryer,
the humidity sensor system may be also applied to other domestic
appliances like washer-drier or a spinner-washer.
[0135] Although illustrative embodiments of the present invention
has been described herein with reference to the accompanying
drawings, it is to be understood that the present invention is not
limited to those precise embodiments, and that various other
changes and modifications may be affected therein by one skilled in
the art without departing from the scope or spirit of the
invention. All such changes and modifications are intended to be
included within the scope of the invention as defined by the
appended claims.
* * * * *