DRYER LINT COLLECTION SYSTEM

摘要

An automatic lint filter cleaning and lint collection system for a laundry dryer. The apparatus comprises a lint filter pivot chamber, a lint collection chamber, a lint filter housing pivotably mounted between the pivot chamber and collection chamber, a flange between the pivot chamber and collection chamber wherein the filter housing is biased into abutment with the flange, a lint collection container, an auger rotatably mounted within the collection chamber, and a drive assembly operably connected to the lint filter housing and auger. The drive assembly is operable to pivot the filter housing away from the flange and then to release the filter housing such that the filter housing forcibly returns into abutment with the flange and thereby causes the lint filter to release lint into the collection chamber. The drive assembly is operable to rotate the auger and thereby move lint from the collection chamber into the collection container.

主权项

1. A lint filter cleaning and lint collection apparatus for a laundry dryer, comprising:
a) an apparatus housing; b) a lint filter pivot chamber formed in an upper portion of said apparatus housing; c) a lint collection chamber formed in a lower portion of said apparatus housing below said pivot chamber; d) a lint filter housing pivotably mounted within said apparatus housing between said pivot chamber and said collection chamber; e) a lint filter secured within said filter housing; f) a flange formed along an internal surface of said apparatus housing between said pivot chamber and said collection chamber, wherein said filter housing is biased into abutment with said flange; g) a lint collection container; h) a pipe connecting said collection chamber and said collection container; i) an auger rotatably mounted within said collection chamber, said auger having a proximal end and a distal end, wherein said proximal end extends through said pipe and into said collection container; and j) a drive assembly operably connected to said filter housing and said distal end of said auger; k) wherein said drive assembly is operable to pivot said filter housing within said pivot chamber and away from said flange, wherein said drive assembly is further operable to release said filter housing after said filter housing has been pivoted away from said flange such that said filter housing forcibly returns into abutment with said flange, wherein said lint filter is operable to release lint adhered thereto into said collection chamber when said filter housing forcibly returns into abutment with said flange; l) wherein said drive assembly is further operable to rotate said auger and said auger is operable to move lint from said collection chamber, through said pipe, and into said collection container as said auger rotates.