阅读说明：本技术 用于洗涤设备的组件 (Assembly for a washing appliance ) 是由 E·萨特 于 2020-03-20 设计创作，主要内容包括：本发明涉及一种用于洗涤设备、尤其是洗衣机的组件(1),其包括：第一滚筒(2)；第二滚筒(3),其与第一滚筒(2)并排放置并基本同轴。第一滚筒(2)和第二滚筒(3)协作以在其中限定洗涤室。组件(1)还包括运动装置(9、10),其可操作地连接到第一滚筒(2)和第二滚筒(3),并且构造成使第一滚筒(2)和第二滚筒(3)彼此独立地旋转。在第一滚筒(2)和第二滚筒(3)之间的交界区(4)处的第一滚筒(2)的内径(D2)基本上等于第二滚筒(3)在交界区(4)处的内径(D3)。本发明还涉及一种包括组件(1)的洗涤设备、尤其是洗衣机。(The invention relates to an assembly (1) for a washing apparatus, in particular a washing machine, comprising: a first drum (2); a second roller (3) placed side by side and substantially coaxial with the first roller (2). The first drum (2) and the second drum (3) cooperate to define a washing chamber therein. The assembly (1) further comprises movement means (9, 10) operatively connected to the first (2) and second (3) rollers and configured to rotate the first (2) and second (3) rollers independently of each other. The inner diameter (D2) of the first roller (2) at the interface zone (4) between the first roller (2) and the second roller (3) is substantially equal to the inner diameter (D3) of the second roller (3) at the interface zone (4). The invention also relates to a washing appliance, in particular a washing machine, comprising the assembly (1).)

1. Assembly (1) for a washing apparatus, in particular for a laundry washing machine, comprising:

-a first drum (2),

-a second roller (3) placed side by side and substantially coaxial with the first roller (2),

the first drum (2) and the second drum (3) cooperate to define a washing chamber therein,

-movement means (9, 10) operatively connected to the first (2) and second (3) drums and configured to rotate the first (2) and second (3) drums independently of each other,

characterized in that the inner diameter (D2) of the first drum (2) at the interface zone (4) between the first drum (2) and the second drum (3) is substantially equal to the inner diameter (D3) of the second drum (3) at said interface zone (4).

2. Assembly (1) according to claim 1, further comprising an anti-intrusion element (7), said anti-intrusion element (7) extending at least partially at or near said interface zone (4) and being configured such that, during rotation of the first drum (2) and/or the second drum (3), the anti-intrusion element (7) prevents or hinders intrusion of articles contained in the washing chamber into a gap defined between the first drum (2) and the second drum (3) at the interface zone (4).

3. An assembly (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that the respective edges (5, 6) of the first drum (2) and of the second drum (3) extend at the interface zone (4), said edges (5, 6) being folded and mutually arranged to prevent or hinder, during the rotation of the first drum (2) and/or of the second drum (3), the intrusion of the articles contained in the washing chamber at the interface zone (4) into the gap defined between the first drum (2) and the second drum (3).

4. Assembly (1) according to claim 1 or 2 or 3, characterized in that said movement means (9, 10) comprise:

-a first motor member (9) operatively connected to the first drum (2) and configured to rotate the first drum (2),

-a second motor member (10) operatively connected to the second drum (3) and configured to rotate the second drum (3) independently of the first motor member (9),

the first motor means (9) and the second motor means (10) are configured to rotate the first drum (2) and the second drum (3) respectively at different rotation speeds and/or in different rotation directions;

or, wherein the motion device comprises:

-a single motor member operatively connected to the first (2) and second (3) drums and a power transmission member (13, 16) interposed between said single motor member and said first (2) and second (3) drums, and said power transmission member (13, 16) is configured to selectively rotate the first (2) and/or second (3) drum.

5. Assembly (1) according to claim 4, characterized in that said first motor member (9) and said second motor member (10) are configured to selectively and/or independently of each other rotate said first drum (2) and said second drum (3), respectively, to implement at least one or any combination of the following operating configurations:

-the first drum (2) is stationary or rotating at a first rotational speed and the second drum (3) is stationary or rotating at a second rotational speed;

-the first drum (2) and the second drum (3) rotate at the same rotation speed;

-the first drum (2) rotates in a first direction of rotation and the second drum (3) rotates in a second direction of rotation;

-the first drum (2) and the second drum (3) rotate in the same direction of rotation.

6. Assembly (1) according to claim 4 or 5, characterized in that it further comprises a first shaft (11) and a second shaft (12), said first shaft (11) being operatively connected to said first motor member (9) and to said first drum (2) and being configured to transmit a rotary motion to the first drum (2); said second shaft (12) being operatively connected to said second motor member (10) and to said second drum (3) and configured to transmit a rotary motion to the second drum (3); the second shaft (12) extends at least partially around the first shaft (11).

7. Assembly (1) according to claim 6, characterized in that it further comprises a first rotary guide member (15) and a second rotary guide member (18), said first rotary guide member (15) being interposed between said first shaft (11) and said first drum (2) and being configured to guide said first drum (2) in rotation; the second rotary guide member (18) is interposed between the second shaft (12) and the second drum (3) and is configured to guide the second drum (3) in rotation; the second rotary guide member (18) surrounds the first rotary guide member (15) and the first drum (2).

8. Assembly (1) according to claim 7, wherein said second rotary guiding member (18) comprises a plurality of spokes (18b), in particular said spokes (18b) being equally angularly spaced from each other, and/or wherein said second rotary guiding member (18) has a plurality of holes (19) adapted to allow passage of washing liquid.

9. The assembly (1) according to any one of claims 4 to 8, characterized by comprising at least one power transmission member (13, 16), such as a pulley (13a, 16a), coupled to the respective shaft (11, 12) and operatively interposed between the first motor member (9) and the first drum (2) or between the second motor member (10) and the second drum (3), and/or wherein at least one of the first motor member (9) and the second motor member (10) comprises a rotor directly coupled to the respective shaft (11, 12).

10. Washing appliance, in particular washing machine, comprising:

-a housing

-a tub disposed within the housing and adapted to contain a washing liquid,

-an assembly (1) according to any one of the preceding claims,

wherein the first drum (2) and the second drum (3) are housed inside the tub and the movement means (9, 10) are housed inside the casing.

Technical Field

The invention relates to the technical field of washing equipment.

The present invention relates to an assembly for a washing appliance. In particular, the present invention relates to an assembly for a washing machine.

The invention also relates to a washing device. In particular, the present invention relates to a washing machine.

Background

Washing equipment is a known product. The washing apparatus is generally provided with a box-like body or a defined housing, within which a tub is disposed, and within which a drum is rotatably accommodated. The drum defines a washing chamber.

A general need of known washing apparatuses is to optimize the treatment of the articles contained in the washing compartment, in such a way as to improve the washing performance of the washing apparatus.

A solution that meets the above-mentioned needs is known from EP3309288a 1. EP3309288a1 relates to a washing device having a drum and a button element engaging with the drum. The button element is arranged transversely with respect to the drum shell of the drum. The button element acts as a bottom of the drum and is independently rotatable with respect to the drum. The button element is intended to optimize the handling of the items contained in the washing chamber. However, the above-mentioned appliances are unsatisfactory in washing performance.

Disclosure of Invention

The main object of the present invention is to provide an assembly for a washing apparatus, in particular a laundry washing machine, which is capable of overcoming one or more of the drawbacks previously described with respect to the prior art.

The object of the present invention is to optimize the washing performance of a washing apparatus, in particular a washing machine.

Another object of the present invention is to allow an effective and efficient treatment of the articles contained in the washing chamber of a washing apparatus, in particular a laundry washing machine.

Another object of the present invention is to provide an assembly for a washing apparatus which, once installed in the washing apparatus, allows to perform an additional washing cycle with respect to conventionally available washing apparatuses, in particular at least one washing cycle simulating a manual wash.

Another object of the present invention is to provide an assembly for a washing apparatus which allows to operate on the items contained in the washing chamber, determine the optimal treatment regime and wash them.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a washing apparatus, in particular a laundry washing machine, which is able to determine the optimal treatment and washing of the articles contained in the washing chamber. The above objects, among others, are achieved by an assembly for a washing apparatus, by the use of such an assembly, by such a washing apparatus, and by a method of moving a drum, according to the appended claims and/or aspects hereinafter. These claims and/or several aspects described below may be applied independently of each other or in combination with any of the aspects described below, or in combination with a single feature described in the detailed description, or in combination with any of the following claims.

In a first aspect, the present invention relates to an assembly for a washing apparatus, in particular a laundry washing machine, comprising:

-a first roller for rotating the drum relative to the drum,

a second roller, placed side by side and substantially coaxial with the first roller,

the first drum and the second drum cooperate to define a washing chamber therein,

-a movement device operatively connected to the first and second rollers and configured to move the first and second rollers

The second rollers rotate independently of each other,

wherein an inner diameter of the first roller at an interface area between the first roller and the second roller is substantially equal to an inner diameter of the second roller at the interface area.

In one aspect, there is provided an assembly for a washing apparatus (in particular a laundry washing machine) comprising:

-a first roller for rotating the drum relative to the drum,

a second roller, placed side by side and substantially coaxial with the first roller,

the first drum and the second drum cooperate to define a washing chamber therein,

a movement device operatively connected to the first and second rollers and configured to rotate the first and second rollers independently of each other,

wherein the inner diameters of the first and second rollers are substantially constant at an interface area between the first and second rollers.

In one aspect, the assembly is configured to prevent or hinder outflow of items contained within the washing chamber at the interface region.

In one aspect, the assembly is configured to prevent or hinder items contained within the washing chamber from intruding into a gap defined between the first and second drums at the interface region during rotation of the first and/or second drums.

In one aspect, the assembly further comprises an anti-intrusion element extending at least partially at or near the interface region and configured to prevent or hinder intrusion of articles contained within the washing chamber into a gap defined between the first and second drums at the interface region during rotation of the first and/or second drums.

In one aspect, the intrusion member is placed at the gap in such a manner that a portion of the passage defined by the gap is blocked.

In one aspect, the intrusion element is configured to block or at least reduce the gap at the interface region.

In one aspect, the anti-intrusion element extends circumferentially around the rotational axis of the first and second rollers.

In one aspect, the intrusion member includes a gasket.

In one aspect, the gasket has a first recess and a second recess extending opposite each other, the first recess receiving the curved edge of the first roller and the second recess receiving the curved edge of the second roller.

In one aspect, the first recess is configured to constrain the curved edge of the first roller.

In one aspect, the curved edge of the first roller extends at an open axial end of the first roller.

In one aspect, the second recess is configured to constrain the curved edge of the second roller.

In one aspect, the first curved portion of the curved edge of the second roller is at least partially received within the second recess.

In one aspect, the curved edges of the first and second rollers extend circumferentially about the rotational axis of the first and second rollers.

In one aspect, the gasket has a tip portion defining a first recess and a second recess.

In one aspect, each end portion of the gasket has a substantially C-shaped or U-shaped or V-shaped form and size and is configured to receive and constrain respective edges of the first and second rollers.

In one aspect, each recess of the gasket has a substantially C-shaped or U-shaped or V-shaped form and size and is configured to receive and constrain respective edges of the first and second rollers.

In one aspect, the gasket has a substantially H-shaped profile, and the end portion having the H-shaped profile defines a first recess and a second recess.

In one aspect, the first drum has an end extending at the interface region, the end having a curved edge that curves toward an exterior of the washing chamber.

In one aspect, the assembly includes a reinforcing element configured to reinforce at least one of the first and second rollers proximate the interface region.

In one aspect, the reinforcement element is placed outside the washing chamber.

In one aspect, the reinforcing element engages the curved edge of the first roller at the outer surface of the first roller.

In one aspect, the reinforcing element extends circumferentially around the rotational axis of the first and second drums.

In one aspect, in the interface zone, respective edges of the first and second drums extend, said edges being curved and mutually arranged to prevent or hinder, during rotation of the first and/or second drum, items contained in the washing chamber from intruding into a gap defined between the first and second drums in the interface zone.

In one aspect, at the interface region, respective curved edges of the first drum and the second drum extend, said edges being curved and mutually arranged to prevent or hinder outflow of articles contained in said washing chamber from the washing chamber at the interface region during rotation of the first drum wheel and/or the second drum wheel.

In one aspect, the curved edges of the first and second rollers extend circumferentially about the rotational axis of the first and second rollers.

In one aspect of the present invention,

one end of the first roller extends in the interface region, the end having an edge,

one end of the second roller extends in the interface area, the end having an edge,

the edge of the end of the first drum is at least partially superposed on the edge of the end of the second drum.

In one aspect, the end of the first roller having the edge is an open axial end.

In one aspect, outside the washing chamber, the edge of the end of the first drum at least partially overlaps the edge of the end of the second drum.

In one aspect, an edge of the end of the first roller is at least partially in contact with an edge of the end of the second roller.

In one aspect, the edge of the end of the first drum is at least partially in contact with the edge of the end of the second drum outside the washing chamber.

In one aspect, outside the washing chamber, the edge of the end of the second drum closes or at least partially closes the edge of the end of the first drum.

In one aspect, outside the washing chamber, the edge of the end of the second drum closes or circumferentially surrounds and at least partially closes the edge of the end of the first drum.

In one aspect, an edge of an end of the first drum is curved toward an outside of the washing chamber.

In one aspect, the curved edge of the end of the first roller includes a connecting segment, an intermediate segment, and a terminal segment, the intermediate segment being interposed between the connecting segment and the terminal segment.

In one aspect, the connecting segment is configured to connect the axially extending main portion of the first roller and the middle segment of the curved edge.

In one aspect, the intermediate section is at least partially curvilinear.

In one aspect, the middle section is substantially C-shaped, U-shaped, or V-shaped.

In one aspect, the middle section has a shape that defines an interior volume.

In one aspect, a connecting segment connects the drum shell of the first drum with the middle segment of the curved edge.

In one aspect, the end segment and the second portion of the connecting segment are at least partially parallel.

In one aspect, the end section is at least partially parallel to the axially extending main portion of the first drum.

In one aspect, the end section and at least a portion of the drum shell of the first drum are at least partially parallel.

In one aspect, the connecting section and the axially extending main portion of the first drum are at least partially parallel.

In one aspect, the connecting section and the drum shell of the first drum are at least partially parallel.

In one aspect, the connecting segment is at least partially transverse relative to the cartridge housing.

In one aspect, the connecting segment extends relative to the cartridge housing.

In one aspect, the connecting section is tapered.

In one aspect, the connecting segment has a first slope change and a second slope change that extend uninterrupted relative to the cartridge housing.

In one aspect, the connecting segment includes a first portion defined at a first slope change.

In one aspect, the first portion has a first slope.

In one aspect, the connecting segment includes a second portion defined at the second slope change.

In one aspect, the second portion has a second slope.

In one aspect, the first slope is different from the second slope.

In one aspect, the first portion of the connecting section extends uninterrupted to the drum shell of the first drum and to the second portion of the connecting section.

In one aspect, the first portion of the connecting section is disposed between the drum shell of the first drum and the second portion of the connecting section.

In one aspect, the first portion of the connecting section is transverse to the second portion of the connecting section and transverse to the cartridge housing.

In one aspect, the second portion of the connecting segment extends uninterrupted to the first portion of the connecting segment and the middle section of the curved edge.

In one aspect, the second portion of the connecting segment is disposed between the first portion of the connecting segment and the middle segment of the curved edge.

In one aspect, the second portion of the connecting segment is transverse to the first portion of the connecting segment and transverse to the middle section of the curved edge.

In one aspect, the second portion of the connecting section is substantially parallel to the cartridge housing.

In one aspect, the second portion of the connecting segment at least partially overlies the curved edge of the end of the second drum.

In one aspect, the edge of the end of the first roller has only one bend.

In one aspect, an edge of an end of the second drum is curved toward an outside of the washing chamber.

In one aspect, the curved edge of the end of the second roller extends at a first end of the second roller, the first end of the second roller extending at the interface region.

In one aspect, the edge of the end of the second roller has a first bend where the edge of the end of the first roller at least partially overlaps the edge of the end of the second roller.

In one aspect, the middle and end segments of the curved edge of the first roller are superposed on the first curved portion.

In one aspect, the connecting section of the curved edge of the first drum at least partially overlaps the first curved portion.

In one aspect, the edge of the end of the second roller also has a second bend.

In one aspect, the second bend extends at least partially along a diameter of the second roller, the diameter of the second bend being greater than a diameter of the second roller extending at the first bend.

In one aspect, the second bend surrounds or at least partially surrounds an edge of the end of the first roller.

In one aspect, the second bend surrounds or circumferentially surrounds and at least partially surrounds an edge of the end of the first drum.

In one aspect, the second bend has a tip section and a connecting section configured to connect the first bend with the tip section.

In one aspect, an end section of the second bend extends along a diameter of the second roller, the diameter of the second bend being greater than a diameter of the second roller extending at the first bend.

In one aspect, the end section of the second bend at least partially surrounds an edge of the end of the first roller.

In one aspect, the end section of the second bend circumferentially surrounds and at least partially surrounds an edge of the end of the first drum.

In one aspect, the exercise device comprises:

a first motor member operatively connected to the first roller and configured to rotate the first roller,

a second motor member operatively connected to the second drum and configured to rotate the second drum independently of the first motor member,

the first and second motor members are configured to rotate the first and second rollers, respectively, at different rotational speeds and/or in different rotational directions.

In one aspect, the movement device includes a single motor member operatively connected to the first and second rollers and a power transmission member interposed between the single motor member and the first and second rollers, and the power transmission member is configured to selectively rotate the first and/or second rollers.

In one aspect, the first and second motor members are configured to change the rotational speed and/or rotational direction of the first and second drums, respectively, according to a specific washing step or cycle.

In one aspect, the first and second motor members are configured to selectively and/or independently of each other rotate the first and second drums, respectively, to implement at least one or any combination of the following operating configurations:

-the first drum is stationary or rotating at a first rotational speed and the second drum is stationary or rotating at a second rotational speed;

-the first drum and the second drum rotate at the same rotational speed;

-the first drum rotates in a first direction of rotation and the second drum rotates in a second direction of rotation;

-the first and second rollers rotate in the same direction of rotation.

In one aspect, the first rotational speed is different from the second rotational speed.

In one aspect, the first rotational speed is greater than the second rotational speed, and vice versa.

In one aspect, the first rotational direction is different from the second rotational direction.

In one aspect, the first rotational direction is opposite the second rotational direction.

In one aspect, the first rotational direction is clockwise and the second rotational direction is counterclockwise, or vice versa.

In one aspect, a static drum refers to a drum with zero rotational speed.

In one aspect, the rotational speed of the drum refers to an average rotational speed or an instantaneous rotational speed of the drum.

In one aspect, the second motor member is distinct and separate with respect to the first motor member.

In one aspect, the second motor member is integral with and/or connected to the first motor member.

In one aspect, the first motor member and the second motor member are arranged side-by-side and/or adjacent to each other.

In one aspect, the second motor member is positioned adjacent to the first motor member.

In one aspect, the second roller is distinct and separate from the first roller.

In one aspect, the first roller has an axial extension.

In one aspect, the first drum is configured to rotate about an axis of rotation.

In one aspect, the axis of rotation of the first drum is substantially horizontal. In an alternative aspect, the axis of rotation of the first drum may be inclined with respect to the horizontal by an angle of, for example, between 1 ° and 30 °.

In one aspect, the axial extension of the first drum is defined along the axis of rotation.

In one aspect, the first roller has a solid body of a rotating shape.

In one aspect, symmetry of the solid of revolution is defined with respect to the axis of rotation of the first drum.

In one aspect, the first roller has a generally cylindrical hollow shape.

In one aspect, the first roller has a drum shell including an axially extending portion, the first roller having a substantially constant inner diameter in at least one axial portion of the drum shell.

In one aspect, the inner diameter of the first roller is substantially constant over a major portion of the axial extension of the cartridge shell or over the entire axial extension of the cartridge shell.

In one aspect, the drum shell of the first drum has a plurality of apertures.

In one aspect, the first drum has a bottom transverse to the drum shell.

In one aspect, the bottom of the first drum defines a bottom of the washing chamber.

In one aspect, the first roller further has an open axial end opposite the bottom.

In one aspect, the open axial end has a channel portion facing the second roller.

In one aspect, the channel portion is substantially circular.

In one aspect, the channel portion has an inner diameter.

In one aspect, the open axial end extends at the interface region.

In one aspect, the bottom of the first roller has a plurality of holes.

In one aspect, the size of the holes is such as to allow the liquid (in particular the washing liquid) to flow from the washing chamber to the outside of the first drum, under the operating conditions of the assembly.

In one aspect, the base of the first drum has a peripheral circular crown defined adjacent to the drum shell, the aperture being defined at least at the peripheral circular crown.

In one aspect, the second roller has an axial extension.

In one aspect, the second drum is configured to rotate about an axis of rotation.

In one aspect, the axis of rotation of the second drum is substantially horizontal. In an alternative aspect, the axis of rotation of the second drum may be inclined with respect to the horizontal, for example by an angle between 1 ° and 30 °.

In one aspect, the axial extension of the second drum is defined along the axis of rotation.

In one aspect, the axial extension of the second roller is smaller than the axial extension of the first roller.

In one aspect, the first and second rollers share the same axis of rotation.

In one aspect, the second drum has a solid body of a rotating shape.

In one aspect, symmetry of the solid of revolution is defined relative to the axis of rotation of the second drum.

In one aspect, the second roller has a generally cylindrical hollow shape.

In one aspect, the second drum has a drum shell with an axial extension, the second drum having a substantially constant inner diameter over at least one axial portion of the drum shell.

In one aspect, the inner diameter of the second drum is substantially constant over a major part of the axial extension of the drum shell or over the entire axial extension of the drum shell.

In one aspect, the second roller has a first end and a second end, the first end and the second end being axially opposite.

In one aspect, the first end extends at the interface region.

In one aspect, the second end is intended to face a door body of the washing appliance.

In one aspect, the first end and the second end each define a channel portion.

In one aspect, each channel portion is substantially circular.

In one aspect, the channel portion of the first end faces the first roller.

In one aspect, the channel portion of the first end faces the open end of the first roller.

In one aspect, the channel portion of the first end is adapted to allow articles within the washing chamber to move from the second drum to the first drum and vice versa.

In one aspect, the channel portion of the second end is configured to act as an inlet to the washing chamber.

In one aspect, the channel portion of the second end is adapted to allow loading of articles in and picking of articles from the washing chamber.

In one aspect, the channel portion of the second end is smaller than the channel portion of the first end.

In one aspect, the diameter of the channel portion of the second end is less than the diameter of the channel portion of the first end.

In one aspect, the diameter of the channel portion of the first end is substantially equal to the inner diameter of the second roller defined at the interface region.

In one aspect, the diameter of the channel portion of the first end is substantially equal to the inner diameter of the open axial end of the first roller.

In one aspect, the inner diameter of the channel portion of the second end is less than the inner diameter of the channel portion of the first end.

In one aspect, the drum shell of the second drum has a plurality of apertures.

In one aspect, the size of the holes is such as to allow the liquid (in particular the washing liquid) to flow from the washing chamber to the outside of the second drum, under the operating conditions of the assembly.

In one aspect, the first and second rollers are configured to rotate about the same axis of rotation.

In one aspect, the axes of rotation of the first and second rollers are substantially horizontal.

In one aspect, the assembly further comprises a first shaft operatively connected to the first motor member and the first roller and configured to transfer rotational motion to the first roller; a second shaft operatively connected to the second motor member and the second roller and configured to transfer rotational motion to the second roller; the second shaft extends at least partially around the first shaft.

In one aspect, the first shaft defines an axis of rotation of the first drum.

In one aspect, the second shaft defines an axis of rotation of the second drum.

In one aspect, the first and second shafts are coaxial with each other.

In one aspect, the assembly further includes a first shaft interposed between the first motor member and the first roller and configured to transfer rotational motion to the first roller; the second shaft is interposed between the motor member and the second roller and is configured to transmit a rotational motion to the second roller; the second shaft extends at least partially around the first shaft.

In one aspect, the second axis surrounds the first axis.

In one aspect, the second shaft circumferentially surrounds the first shaft.

In one aspect, the second shaft is substantially hollow.

In one aspect, the second shaft has a tubular shape.

In one aspect, the second shaft has a generally sleeve-like shape.

In one aspect, the first shaft is configured to transfer rotational motion from the first motor member to the first drum.

In one aspect, the second shaft is configured to transfer rotational motion from the second motor member to the second drum.

In one aspect, the second shaft has a substantially tubular shape.

In one aspect, the second shaft has a substantially hollow shape.

In one aspect, the first shaft extends at least partially within the second shaft such that it is rotatable relative to the first shaft.

In one aspect, the first and second shafts have respective axial extensions, the axial extensions of the first and second shafts being defined along or parallel to the rotational axes of the first and second drums.

In one aspect, the axial extension of the first shaft is greater than the axial extension of the second shaft.

In one aspect, the assembly further includes at least one rotational support element engaged with the first shaft and configured to support the first shaft for rotation.

In one aspect, the second shaft provides at least one housing configured to receive the at least one rotational support element, and/or at least one shoulder configured to provide abutment for the at least one rotational support element.

In one aspect, the assembly further comprises a first pair of rotational support elements engaged with the first shaft at or near respective opposite axial ends of the first shaft, each rotational support element configured to support the first shaft for rotation.

In one aspect, the at least one rotational support element engaged with the first shaft is configured to allow the first shaft to rotate relative to the second shaft, and/or vice versa.

In one aspect, the at least one rotational support element engaged with the first shaft includes at least one bearing.

In one aspect, the assembly further includes at least one rotational support element engaged with the second shaft and configured to support the second shaft for rotation.

In one aspect, the assembly further comprises a second pair of rotational support elements engaged with the second shaft at or near respective opposite axial ends thereof, each rotational support element configured to support the second shaft for rotation.

In one aspect, the at least one rotational support element engaged with the second shaft is configured to allow the second shaft to rotate relative to a tub in which the second drum is rotationally housed.

In one aspect, the at least one rotational support element engaged with the second shaft includes at least one bearing.

In one aspect, the assembly further comprises a first rotary guide member interposed between the first shaft and the first roller and configured to guide the first roller in rotation; the second rotation guide member is interposed between the second shaft and the second drum and configured to guide the second drum to rotate; the second rotary guide member surrounds the first rotary guide member and the first drum.

In one aspect, the second rotary guide member circumferentially surrounds the first rotary guide member and the first drum.

In one aspect, the assembly further comprises a first rotary guide member interposed between the first shaft and the first roller and configured to guide the first roller in rotation; a second rotation guide member interposed between the second shaft and the second drum and configured to guide the second drum to rotate; the second rotary guide member extends at least partially around the first rotary guide member.

In one aspect, the second rotary guiding member comprises a plurality of spokes, in particular said spokes being equiangularly spaced from each other, and/or wherein the second rotary guiding member has a plurality of apertures adapted to allow passage of the washing liquid.

In one aspect, successive spokes of the second rotary guide member are equiangularly spaced from each other.

In one aspect, the first rotary guide member engages a bottom of the first drum.

In one aspect, the first rotary guide member is part of and/or integral with the bottom of the first drum.

In one aspect, the first rotary guide member is engaged at or near each end opposite the first shaft and the first roller.

In one aspect, the first roller rotates integrally with the first rotary guide member.

In one aspect, the first rotary guide member rotates integrally with the first shaft.

In one aspect, the first rotary guide member is fitted with a first shaft.

In one aspect, the second rotary guide member is engaged at or near each end opposite the second shaft and the second roller.

In one aspect, the second rotary guide member has at least one connecting portion that engages the second roller.

In one aspect, the second drum rotates integrally with the second rotary guide member.

In one aspect, the second rotary guide member rotates integrally with the second shaft.

In one aspect, the second rotary guide member is fitted with a second shaft.

In one aspect, the second rotary guide member engages the second roller at a curved edge of the first end of the second roller.

In one aspect, the second rotary guide member engages the second roller at a second bend of the curved edge of the second roller.

In one aspect, the second rotary guide member engages the second roller at an end section of the second bend.

In one aspect, the first and second rotary guide members include respective shelves.

In one aspect, the bars of the first rotary guide member and the bars of the second rotary guide member have different numbers of spokes relative to each other.

In one aspect, the number of spokes of the bars of the first rotary guide member is less than the number of spokes of the bars of the second rotary guide member.

In one aspect, the stop of the first rotary guide member is placed within a space defined by the stop of the second rotary guide member.

In one aspect, the bars of the second rotary guide member surround the bars of the first rotary guide member and the first roller.

In one aspect, the bars of the second rotary guide member circumferentially surround the bars of the first rotary guide member and the first drum.

In one aspect, the bars of the second rotary guide member have a plurality of holes adapted to allow the passage of a fluid, in particular a washing liquid.

In one aspect, the stop of the first rotary guide member and/or the stop of the second rotary guide member are made of a plastic or polymer material.

In one aspect, the stop bar of the second rotary guide member is made of a plastic or polymer material.

In one aspect, the stop bar of the first rotary guide member and/or the stop bar of the second rotary guide member are made of a metallic material.

In one aspect, the stop bar of the first rotary guide member is made of a metallic material.

In one aspect, the stop bar of the first rotary guide member has 1 to 5 spokes.

In one aspect, the spokes of the bars of the first rotary guide member are equiangularly spaced from each other.

In one aspect, successive spokes of a stop bar of the first rotary guide member are equiangularly spaced from each other.

In one aspect, the stop bar of the first rotary guide member has 3 spokes.

In one aspect, the stop of the first rotary guide member has a fulcrum portion from which each spoke of the stop of the first rotary guide member extends.

In one aspect, each spoke of the stop bar of the first rotary guide member extends away from the fulcrum portion.

In one aspect, the stop bar of the second rotary guide member has 1 to 9 spokes.

In one aspect, the stop bar of the first rotary guide member has 5 spokes.

In one aspect, each stop is provided with a plurality of spokes.

In one aspect, the stop of the second rotary guide member has a fulcrum portion from which each spoke of the stop of the second rotary guide member extends.

In one aspect, each spoke of the stop bar of the second rotary guide member extends away from the fulcrum portion.

In one aspect, each spoke of the stop bar of the second rotary guide member has a first portion and a second portion. The first section is located alongside and/or at least partially at or near the bottom of the first drum. The second portion is at least partially axially opposite the first roller. The first and second portions are transverse with respect to each other.

In one aspect, at least one spoke of the stop bar of the second rotary guide member has a plurality of holes.

In one aspect, the second portion has a reduced thickness.

In one aspect, the thickness of the second portion decreases in a direction substantially parallel to the axis of rotation of the first and/or second drum.

In one aspect, the thickness of the second portion decreases with distance from the first portion.

In one aspect, the plurality of apertures of the at least one spoke of the stop bar of the second rotary guide member are defined at least in a first portion and/or a second portion of the at least one spoke.

In one aspect, each spoke of the stop bar of the second rotary guide member has a plurality of apertures.

In one aspect, the plurality of apertures of each spoke of the stop bar of the second rotary guide member are defined at least in the first portion and/or the second portion of each spoke.

In one aspect, the size and dimensions of the apertures are intended to allow passage of fluid, particularly wash liquid, under operating conditions of the assembly.

In one aspect, the first portion has a shape substantially having a sector.

In one aspect, the first portion is interposed between the fulcrum portion and the second portion.

In one aspect, the first portion engages the fulcrum portion.

In one aspect, the first portion is substantially parallel to at least one spoke of the stop bar of the first rotary guide member.

In one aspect, the first portion and the second portion are substantially orthogonal.

In one aspect, the second portion is at least partially higher than the first roller.

In one aspect, one end of the second portion engages the second roller.

In one aspect, the stop bar of the second rotary guide member further comprises a connecting member.

In one aspect, the connecting members are configured to connect each circumferentially adjacent spoke around the second drum.

In one aspect, the connecting members are configured to connect the second portions of circumferentially adjacent spokes around the second drum.

In one aspect, the connecting member extends circumferentially about the rotational axis of the first and second rollers.

In one aspect, the connection member includes a connection ring.

In one aspect, the connecting member has at least one connecting portion.

In one aspect, the at least one connecting portion is configured to connect the stop bar of the second rotary guide member to the second drum at the drum shell of the second drum.

In one aspect, the at least one connection portion is configured to connect the spokes of the stop bar of the second rotary guide member to the second drum.

In one aspect, the at least one connection portion is configured to connect a second portion of the spokes of the stop bar of the second rotary guide member to the second drum.

In one aspect, the number of connecting portions of the connecting part is equal to the number of spokes of the bars of the second rotary guide member.

In one aspect, the stop bar of the second rotary guide member engages the second roller at the at least one connection portion.

In one aspect, the assembly includes at least one power transmission member, such as a pulley, coupled to the respective shaft and operably disposed between the first motor member and the first drum or between the second motor member and the second drum, and/or wherein at least one of the first motor member and the second motor member includes a rotor directly coupled to the respective shaft.

In one aspect, at least one of the first and second motor components includes a respective rotor coupled to a respective drum, and a respective stator configured to be coupled to a tub of a washing apparatus in which the assembly is operated.

In one aspect, the first and second motor components include respective rotors coupled to the first and second drums, respectively, and a stator configured to be coupled to a tub of a washing apparatus in which the assembly is to operate.

In one aspect, the first motor member and the second motor member are of the same type, e.g., they are both of the direct drive type, or both have respective power transmission members.

In one aspect, the first motor member comprises an electric motor.

In one aspect, the second motor member comprises an electric motor.

In one aspect, the first motor member is a direct drive type, and the first shaft is directly connected to the first motor member.

In one aspect, the second motor member is a direct drive type, with the second shaft directly connected to the second motor member.

In one aspect, the assembly further includes a first power transmission member operatively interposed between the first motor member and the first shaft, the first power transmission member configured to receive power from the first motor member and transmit power to the first shaft to thereby rotate the first drum.

In one aspect, the first power transmission member includes a pulley and a belt engaged with the pulley.

In one aspect, a belt is operatively disposed between the first motor member and the pulley and is configured to receive power from the first motor member and transmit power to the pulley.

In one aspect, a pulley is operably disposed between the belt and the first shaft and is configured to receive power from the belt and transmit power to the first shaft.

In one aspect, the first shaft is configured to transfer rotational motion to the first drum by means of a first rotary guide member.

In one aspect, the assembly further includes a second power transmission member operably interposed between the second motor member and the second shaft, the second power transmission member configured to receive power from the second motor member and transmit power to the second shaft, thereby rotating the second drum.

In one aspect, the second power transmission member includes a pulley and a belt engaged with the pulley.

In one aspect, a belt is operatively disposed between the second motor member and the pulley and is configured to receive power from the second motor member and transmit power to the pulley.

In one aspect, a pulley is operably disposed between the belt and the secondary shaft and is configured to receive power from the belt and transmit power to the secondary shaft.

In one aspect, the second shaft is configured to transfer rotational motion to the second drum by means of a second rotary guide member.

In one aspect, the pulley of the first power transmission member is at least partially parallel to the pulley of the second power transmission member.

In one aspect, the pulley of the first power transmission member is at least partially adjacent to the pulley of the second power transmission member.

In one aspect, the pulley of the first power transmission member is at least partially juxtaposed to and/or facing the pulley of the second power transmission member.

In a second independent aspect, the present invention relates to the use of a component according to any one of the preceding aspects or a component of any combination of the preceding combinations in a laundry washing cycle.

In one aspect, the invention provides the use of an assembly according to any one of the preceding aspects or any combination of the preceding aspects in a laundry cycle wherein the first and second drums rotate at different rotational speeds and/or different rotational directions.

In one aspect, in use, the component implements an operating configuration according to any one of the preceding aspects or a combination of any of the preceding aspects.

In a third independent aspect, the invention relates to a method for moving at least one drum, comprising the steps of:

-providing an assembly comprising a first drum and a second drum, the second drum being placed alongside and substantially coaxial to the first drum, the first and second drums cooperating to define a washing chamber therein, the inner diameter of the first drum at an interface zone between the first and second drums being substantially equal to the inner diameter of the second drum at said interface zone,

the second drum rotates independently of the first drum.

In one aspect, there is provided a method for moving at least one drum, comprising the steps of:

-providing an assembly comprising a first drum and a second drum, placed alongside and substantially coaxial to the first drum, the first and second drums cooperating to define a washing chamber therein, the inner diameters of the first and second drums being substantially constant at an interface zone between the first and second drums,

the second drum rotates independently of the first drum.

In one aspect, the step of "providing an assembly comprising a first roller and a second roller, the second roller being positioned alongside and substantially coaxial with the first roller" comprises the step of providing an assembly according to any one of the preceding aspects or any combination thereof.

In one aspect, the method further comprises the step of rotating the first roller.

In one aspect, the method is a method for moving a first roller and a second roller.

In one aspect, the step of rotating the second roller is subsequent to the step of rotating the first roller.

In one aspect, the steps of rotating the first roller and the second roller are substantially simultaneous.

In one aspect, the step of rotating the second drum includes the step of rotating the second drum at a speed different from the speed of rotation of the first drum and/or in a direction different from the direction of rotation of the first drum.

In one aspect, the method further comprises at least one of the following steps or any combination of the following steps:

-rotating the first drum at a first rotational speed and the second drum at a second rotational speed;

-rotating the first drum at a first rotational speed, while the second rotational speed of the second drum is zero;

-rotating the second drum at a second rotation speed, while the first rotation speed of the first drum is zero;

-rotating the first and second drum at the same rotational speed;

-rotating the first drum in a first rotational direction and the second drum in a second rotational direction;

-rotating the first and second drum in the same direction of rotation.

In one aspect, the step of "rotating the first drum at a first rotational speed while the second rotational speed of the second drum is zero" includes the step of keeping the second drum stationary.

In one aspect, the step of "rotating the second drum at the second rotational speed while the first rotational speed of the first drum is zero" includes the step of keeping the first drum stationary.

In one aspect, the method further comprises the step of adjusting the operating configuration of the first roller and/or the second roller.

In one aspect, the step of adjusting the operating configuration of the first roller and/or the second roller comprises the step of changing the operating configuration of the first roller and/or the second roller.

In one aspect, the step of adjusting the operating configuration of the first drum and/or the second drum is performed according to a specific washing cycle or a specific step of the same washing cycle.

In one aspect, the step of adjusting the operating configuration of the first roller and/or the second roller comprises:

-a step of selecting or adjusting the rotation speed of at least one drum, and/or,

-a step of selecting or reversing the direction of rotation of at least one drum.

In one aspect, the method comprises the steps of: the operating configuration of the first drum and/or of the second drum is differentiated according to a specific washing cycle or a specific step of the same washing cycle.

In a fourth independent aspect, the present invention relates to a washing apparatus, in particular a washing machine, comprising:

-a housing

-a tub disposed within the housing and adapted to contain a washing liquid,

-an assembly according to any one or any combination of the preceding directions,

wherein the first and second rollers are housed within the tub, and the movement device is housed within the housing.

In one aspect, the housing includes a plurality of sides, and the first and second power transmission members are disposed adjacent the same side.

In one aspect, the first motor member and the second motor member are housed within a housing.

In one aspect, the housing includes a plurality of sides, the first motor member and the second motor member being disposed adjacent the same side.

In one aspect, the housing includes an upper portion and a lower portion with the sides extending therebetween.

In one aspect, the housing comprises 2 to 6 sides.

In one aspect, the housing includes 4 sides.

In one aspect, the housing has a parallelepiped shape.

In one aspect, the second roller has a first end and a second end, the first end and the second end being axially opposed, the first end extending at the interface region, the second end facing a side of the housing where the door body is located.

In one aspect, the second end has a channel portion configured to act as an inlet to the washing chamber.

In one aspect, the washing appliance further includes a door engaged with the housing, the door configured to operate at least between a closed configuration and an open configuration. In the closed configuration, the door blocks the access port to the washing chamber to prevent access to the washing chamber. While in the open configuration, the door body allows access to the washing chamber through the access opening and allows laundry to enter the washing chamber.

In one aspect, the door is prevented from being in front of the second end of the second drum in the closed configuration.

In one aspect, the door body is engaged with one side of the housing.

In one aspect, the door body is hinged to one side of the housing.

In one aspect, the housing includes a box-like body.

In one aspect, the washing apparatus, in particular a washing machine, is of the type having a horizontal axis.

In one aspect, the washing apparatus provides at least one housing configured to house at least one rotating support element and/or at least one shoulder. The at least one rotational support element is engaged with the second shaft and is configured to support the second shaft for rotation. The at least one shoulder is configured to provide abutment for the at least one rotational support element, which is engaged with the second shaft and configured to support rotation of the second shaft.

In one aspect, the barrel has the at least one enclosure and/or the at least one shoulder.

In one aspect, the washing apparatus further comprises a control unit configured to operate on said movement device so as to implement at least one or any combination of the following operating configurations:

-the first drum is stationary or rotating at a first rotational speed and the second drum is stationary or rotating at a second rotational speed;

-the first drum and the second drum rotate at the same rotational speed;

-the first drum rotates in a first direction of rotation and the second drum rotates in a second direction of rotation;

-the first and second rollers rotate in the same direction of rotation.

In one aspect, the control unit is configured to operate on the first and second motor members so as to implement at least one of the operating configurations or any combination thereof.

Drawings

The present description will be elucidated hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, which are provided as non-limiting examples only, wherein:

fig. 1 shows a side view of an assembly for a washing device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

Fig. 2 illustrates a front perspective view of the assembly for a washing appliance of fig. 1.

Fig. 3 illustrates a rear perspective view of the assembly for the washing apparatus of fig. 1.

Fig. 4 shows a sectional view of the assembly for a washing apparatus of fig. 1 and corresponding details.

Fig. 5 shows a detailed sectional view of a component for a washing device according to another embodiment of the present invention.

Detailed Description

With reference to the figures, numeral 1 indicates as a whole an assembly for a washing apparatus according to the invention. The assembly 1 for a washing apparatus is preferably conceived and configured for being mounted in a washing machine.

In the context of the present description, the terms such as "upper", "lower", "lateral", "laterally", "horizontally", "vertically", "front", "frontally", "behind", "rear" are used, except for different specific indications, to refer to the spatial orientation of the assembly 1 of the washing apparatus, which may be generally considered to be in an operating condition or in a condition of use.

The assembly 1 comprises a first roller 2 and a second roller 3, alongside each other. The first drum 2 and the second drum 3 cooperate to define a washing chamber therein. As shown in fig. 4 and 5, the first and second rollers 2 and 3 face each other at the interface area 4. The first and second rollers 2 and 3 will be described in more detail below.

The first drum 2 has a cartridge shell (jack) 2a, which cartridge shell 2a is provided with a plurality of holes adapted to allow the passage of washing liquid. The drum shell 2a of the first drum 2 extends axially along the rotation axis a of the first drum 2 and circumferentially around the rotation axis a, defining the substantially cylindrical shape of the first drum 2. The first drum 2 has a base 2b, which base 2b is transverse (transferable) to the drum shell 2 a. The bottom 2b of the first drum 2 constitutes the bottom of the washing chamber. The bottom 2b is defined at an axial end of the first drum 2 and may have a plurality of holes 2b' sized and intended, in the operating conditions of the assembly 1, to allow the washing liquid to flow from the washing chamber to the outside of the first drum 2. As shown in fig. 2 and 3, the holes 2b' are set in the peripheral circular crown of the bottom 2 b. The first drum 2 also has an open axial end 2c opposite the bottom 2 b. The open axial end 2c of the first cylinder 2 extends at the interface region 4 and has a passage section (passage section) facing the second cylinder 3. The passage portion of the open axial end 2c is adapted to allow the passage of the articles present in the washing chamber from the first drum 2 to the second drum 3 and vice versa. The passage portion of the open axial end 2c is substantially circular and has an inner diameter D2', which may be D2' larger than the inner diameter D2 of the first drum 2 set at the interface zone 4. As shown in fig. 4, the inner diameter D2 of the first roller 2, which is set at the interface region 4, is preferably constant over at least one axial section of the drum casing 2 a. In the embodiment of fig. 5, instead of the embodiment of fig. 4, the inner diameter D2 of the first drum 2 is substantially constant over the entire axial extension of the first drum 2.

The second drum 3 has a cartridge 3a provided with a plurality of holes adapted to allow the passage of the washing liquid. The drum shell 3a of the second drum 3 extends axially along the rotation axis a of the second drum 3 and circumferentially around the rotation axis a to define the substantially cylindrical shape of the second drum 3. The second roller 3 is substantially coaxial with the first roller 2. As shown in fig. 4, the axial extension of the second roller 3 may be smaller than the axial extension of the first roller 2. The second drum 3 has axially opposite first and second ends 3b, 3 c. The first end 3b of the second roller 3 extends at the interface zone 4. Both the first end 3b and the second end 3c define a channel portion. Each channel portion is substantially circular and has a respective inner diameter. The passage portion of the first end 3b faces the first drum 2 and is adapted to allow the passage of the articles present in the washing chamber from the second drum 3 to the first drum 2 and vice versa. The channel portion of the second end 3c is configured to serve as an access opening to the washing chamber and is adapted to allow items to be loaded into and picked up from the washing chamber. As shown in FIG. 4, the inner diameter D3c of the passage portion of the second end 3c is smaller than the inner diameter D3 of the passage portion of the first end 3 b. The inner diameter D3 of second drum 3 is substantially constant in at least one axial portion of drum shell 3 a. As shown in the figures, the inner diameter D3 of the second drum 3 is substantially constant over the major part of the axial extension of the second drum 3. As shown in the detail of fig. 4 and 5, the inner diameter D3 of the first end 3b of the second roller 3 is substantially equal to the inner diameter D2 of the first roller 2 defined at the interface zone 4. In other words, the inner diameter D3 of the second cylinder 3 at the interface zone 4 substantially coincides with the inner diameter D2 of the first cylinder 2 at the interface zone 4. The substantial coincidence of the inner diameter D2 of the first drum 2 and the inner diameter D3 of the second drum 3 in the interface zone 4 is particularly advantageous as it allows an optimal transition between the first drum 2 and the second drum 3 avoiding steps, sharp edges and protrusions that may damage the articles during the washing process. In addition, by providing a substantially uniform inner diameter D2 of the first drum 2 and inner diameter D3 of the second drum 3 in the interface zone 4, it advantageously allows to maximize the internal volume of the first drum 2 and the second drum 3, thus maximizing the volume of the washing chamber.

The first 2 and second 3 rollers also have respective edges 5, 6. Edges 5, 6 are defined at the open axial end 2c of the first drum 2 and the first end 3b of the second drum 3, respectively. As shown in fig. 4 and 5, the edges 5, 6 are curved. The curved edges 5, 6 preferably extend circumferentially around the rotation axis a and/or according to a substantially axially symmetrical geometry. As can be seen below with reference to the first and second embodiments of the invention, the edges 5, 6 overlap each other or face the interface region 4.

As mentioned above, the first cylinder 2 and the second cylinder 3 face each other at the interface zone 4, the interface zone 4 defining a gap therein adapted to separate the first cylinder 2 from the second cylinder 3. It is appropriate to provide this gap to prevent the edges 5, 6 from coming into contact with each other during rotation of the first drum 2 and/or the second drum 3, which could damage the drums 2, 3. The assembly 1 is configured so as to prevent or hinder, in its operating configuration, the intrusion of items contained in the washing chamber into the interspace. The operating configuration of the assembly 1 refers to an operating configuration in which at least one rotation between the first roller 2 and the second roller 3 occurs. Hereinafter, several possible operating configurations of the assembly 1 will be described in the present description. The intrusion of items into the interspace, which are accommodated in the washing chamber, is particularly undesirable, since this can affect the exit of (modular) items, in particular items of small size such as socks, from the washing chamber. The intrusion of items into the gap, which is contained within the washing chamber, is particularly undesirable as it can allow items to enter the tub. The presence of items in the tub is particularly undesirable as it can impede the rotation of the drums 2, 3. Shown in the drawings is a first embodiment of an assembly (see detail in figure 4) and a second embodiment of an assembly (see figure 5) which differ in the manner in which the items are prevented from intruding into the gap.

Fig. 4 shows a first embodiment of the assembly 1 in which the intrusion of articles into the gap is prevented or impeded by providing an overlap of the edge 5 of the first drum 2 and the edge 6 of the second drum 3. In the detail of fig. 4, the curved edge 5 of the open axial end 2c of the first cylinder 2 is at least partially superimposed on the curved edge 6 of the first end 3b of the second cylinder 3. The edge 5 of the open axial end 2c of the first drum 2 is curved towards the outside of the washing chamber and has a connecting section 5a, an intermediate section 5b and an end section 5 c. The intermediate segment 5b is curvilinear and is interposed between the connecting segment 5a and the terminal segment 5 c. As shown in the detail of fig. 4, the intermediate section 5b has a substantially C-shaped form. In a possible variant, the intermediate section 5b may have a substantially U-shaped or V-shaped form or similar form defining an internal volume. The connecting section 5a connects the drum shell 2a of the first drum 2 with the intermediate section 5b and may be at least partially parallel to the drum shell 2 a. As shown in the detail of fig. 4, the connecting section 5a is conical. The connecting section 5a has a first slope change extending uninterruptedly with respect to the cartridge housing 2a and a second slope change extending uninterruptedly with respect to the first slope change. The first portion 5a' of the connecting segment 5a is defined at the first slope change and has a first slope. The second portion 5a "of the connecting segment 5a is defined at the second slope change and has a second slope. The first portion 5a' is interposed between the cartridge 2a and the second portion 5a "and is transverse thereto. The second portion 5a "is interposed between the first portion 5a' and the intermediate portion 5b, transversely thereto. As shown in the detail of fig. 4, with reference to a portion of the interface zone 4, the second portion 5a "is substantially parallel to the cartridge housing 2 a. At the first portion 5a ', an inner diameter D2' is defined, and at the second portion 5a "an inner diameter D5a is defined. The inner diameter D5a is greater than the inner diameter D2' and greater than the inner diameter D2 of the drum 2 defined at the interface region 4. The inner diameter D2 'may vary along the first portion 5a', while the inner diameter D5a may be constant along the second portion 5a ". The variation of the inclination of the connecting segment 5a causes the curved edge 5 of the first cylinder 2 to become tapered, which allows it to be superimposed on the curved edge 6 of the second cylinder 3. From a geometrical point of view, with reference to a portion of the assembly 1, such as shown in detail in fig. 4, the terminal section 5c and the second portion 5a "of the connecting section 5a are at least partially parallel. In addition, the end section 5c and at least a portion of the drum shell 2a of the first drum 2 may be at least partially parallel. In one variant, the end section 5c is bent or curled against the rotation axis a. The second portion 5a "is at least partially superimposed on the curved edge 6 of the first end 3b of the second cylinder 3.

As shown in fig. 4, the curved edge 6 of the first end 3b of the second drum 3 has a first curved portion 6a and a second curved portion 6 b. The curved edge 5 of the open axial end 2c of the first drum 2 at least partially overlaps the first curved portion 6 a. In particular, the second portion 5a ", the intermediate segment 5b and the end segment 5c of the connecting segment 5a of the curved edge 5 of the first drum 2 circumferentially surround the first bend 6 a. The second bend 6b has a connecting section 6b' and an end section 6b ". The connecting section 6b' connects the first bend 6a with the end section 6b ". As shown in fig. 4, the end section 6b "of the second bend 6b extends along a diameter of the second drum 3 which is larger than the diameter of the second drum 3 extending over the first bend 6 a. The end section 6b ″ of the second bend 6b circumferentially surrounds the first bend 6 a. In addition, the end section 6b "of the second curve 6b at least partially surrounds the curved edge 5 of the first drum 2.

Fig. 5 shows a second embodiment of the assembly 1, which is an alternative to the first embodiment described above. In the second embodiment, the assembly 1 comprises an anti-intrusion element 7, which anti-intrusion element 7 is configured to prevent or hinder an item from entering the gap. The intrusion element 7 extends at least partially at the junction area 4 or in the vicinity of the junction area 4. As shown in fig. 5, the intrusion member 7 is preferably arranged at the interface zone 4 in such a manner as to block or at least reduce the gap. The intrusion member 7 includes a gasket. The washer 7 preferably extends circumferentially around the rotation axis a and/or according to a substantially axially symmetrical geometry. The gasket 7 has a substantially H-shaped profile, the end portions of which define a first recess 7a and a second recess 7 b. The first recess 7a and the second recess 7b are configured for receiving and constraining the curved edge 5 of the open axial end 2c of the first drum 2 and the curved edge 6 of the first axial end 3b of the second drum 3, respectively. In such an embodiment, each recess 7a, 7b has a substantially C-shape, sized and configured to receive and constrain an edge 5 of the first drum 2 or an edge 6 of the second drum 3. In a possible variant, the recesses 7a, 7b of the gasket 7 may have a substantially U-shaped or V-shaped or similar form, so as to define an internal volume sized and configured to receive and constrain the respective edges 5, 6 of the first 2 and second 3 cylinders. The assembly 1 also provides a reinforcing element 8, which reinforcing element 8 is configured to reinforce the first cylinder 2 in the vicinity of the interface zone 4. The reinforcement element 8 may be arranged externally with respect to the washing chamber. The reinforcing element 8 is preferably engaged with the curved edge 5 of the open axial end 2c of the first drum 2. As shown in the drawings, the curved edge 6 of the first end 3b of the second drum 3 has a shape substantially similar to that described with reference to the first embodiment. The first curved portion 6a is at least partially accommodated within the second recess 7 b. It should be specifically noted that the provision of the reinforcing member 8 is not strictly limited to the second embodiment. For example, the reinforcing member 8 may be provided in the first embodiment; in this case, the reinforcing element 8 may be applied, for example, externally to the second portion 5a "of the connecting section 5a of the first drum 2.

In another embodiment, not shown in the figures, the superposition of the curved edges 5, 6 of the first and second rollers 2, 3 may combine the first embodiment with the anti-intrusion element 7 of the second embodiment and/or with the reinforcing element 8, in order to prevent or hinder the intrusion of articles into the gap of the assembly 1.

In a possible additional embodiment, not shown in the figures, the intermediate section 5b and the terminal section of the first curve 5 of the first drum 2, previously described with reference to the first embodiment, can be housed inside the first recess 7 a.

The assembly 1 further comprises movement means operatively connected to the first roller 2 and to the second roller 3. The movement device is configured to rotate the first drum 2 and the second drum 3 independently of each other. In one possible embodiment, the movement means comprise a single motor member configured to rotate the first drum 2 and the second drum 3 independently of each other. In such an embodiment, a single motor member is operatively connected to the first and second rollers 2, 3, and the movement means further comprises a power transmission member interposed between the single motor member and the first and second rollers 2, 3. The power transmission member is configured to selectively rotate the first drum 2 and/or the second drum 3. The power transmission member may be of the type that will be described in detail below, and may for example comprise at least one pulley and at least one belt for each drum 2, 3. In the embodiment shown in the figures, the movement means comprise a first motor member 9 and a second motor member 10. The first motor member 9 and the second motor member 10 may be arranged side by side or adjacent to each other. In fig. 4 the first motor member 9 and the second motor member 10 are schematically shown. The first motor member 9 is operatively connected to the first drum 2 and is configured to rotate the first drum 2. Similarly, the second motor member 10 is operatively connected to the second drum 3 and is configured to rotate the second drum 3. The first motor member 9 and the second motor member 10 are configured to rotate the first drum 2 and the second drum 3, respectively, independently. In particular, the first motor means 9 and the second motor means 10 are configured to rotate the first drum 2 and the second drum 3, respectively, at different rotation speeds and, additionally or alternatively, according to different rotation directions. In particular, the first motor member 9 and the second motor member 10 are configured for achieving at least one of the following operating configurations: the first drum 2 is stationary or rotates at a first rotational speed, while the second drum 3 is stationary or rotates at a second rotational speed; the first drum 2 and the second drum 3 rotate at the same rotation speed; the first drum 2 rotates in a first direction of rotation, while the second drum 3 rotates in a second direction of rotation; the first drum 2 and the second drum 3 rotate in the same rotational direction. In the present specification, the stationary rollers 2 and 3 mean the rollers 2 and 3 having a rotation speed of 0. The first and second rotational directions may be opposite to each other. For example, the first rotational direction is clockwise and the second rotational direction is counterclockwise, or vice versa. The first motor member 9 and the second motor member 10 are also configured for implementing any combination of the above-described operating arrangements. Several examples of possible operating configurations resulting from the combination of the above operating configurations are as follows: the first drum 2 rotates at a first speed and in a first direction of rotation, while the second drum 3 rotates at a second speed and in a second direction; the first roller 2 rotates along a first rotating direction, the second roller 3 rotates along a second direction, and the rotating speeds of the first roller and the second roller are the same; the first roller 2 rotates at a first rotating speed, the second roller 3 rotates at a second rotating speed, and the rotating directions of the first roller and the second roller are the same; the first drum 2 and the second drum 3 rotate at the same rotational speed and in the same rotational direction.

At least one between the first motor member 9 and the second motor member 10 may be of the direct drive type. Additionally or alternatively, at least one of the first motor member 9 and the second motor member 10 may comprise a power transmission member, such as a pulley and a belt. In one embodiment, the first motor member 9 comprises a power transmission member and the second motor member 10 is of the direct transmission type, or vice versa. As will be seen in more detail below, in the embodiment shown in the figures, the first motor member 9 and the second motor member 10 comprise respective power transmission members. Preferably, at least one of the first motor member 9 and the second motor member 10 comprises an electric motor.

As shown in the figures, the assembly 1 further comprises a first shaft 11 and a second shaft 12. The first shaft 11 is operatively connected to the first motor member 9 and the first drum 2 and is configured to transmit a rotational movement to the first drum 2. Similarly, the second shaft 12 is operatively connected to the second motor member 10 and to the second drum 3 and is configured to transmit a rotary motion to the second drum 3. The first shaft 11 and the second shaft 12 are preferably coaxial (see fig. 4). Each shaft 11, 12 extends axially along or parallel to the axis of rotation a. The second shaft 12 is substantially hollow and is configured to accommodate the first shaft 11 inside thereof. As shown in fig. 4, the second shaft 12 extends at least partially around the first shaft 11. The second shaft 12 extends around the first shaft 11 and circumferentially around at least a portion of the axial extension of the first shaft 11. This mutual arrangement of the shafts 11, 12 advantageously makes the assembly 1 compact.

In the following, the operative connection between the first motor means 9 and the first drum 2 is described. The assembly 1 comprises a first power transmission member 13 interposed between the first motor member 9 and the first shaft 11. The first power transmission member 13 is configured to receive power from the first motor member 9 and transmit the power to the first shaft 11, thereby rotating the first drum 2. For this purpose, the first power transmission member 13 includes a pulley 13a and a belt 13b engaged with the pulley 13 a. A belt 13b is operatively interposed between the first motor member 9 and the pulley 13a and is configured to receive power from the first motor member 9 and transmit power to the pulley 13 a. The pulley 13a is operatively interposed between the belt 13b and the first shaft 11 and is configured to receive power from the belt 13b and to transmit power and rotary motion to the first shaft 11.

In an alternative embodiment, in which the first motor member 9 is of the direct transmission type, the first motor member 9 comprises a rotor coupled directly to the first shaft 11 and therefore to the first drum 2, and a stator coupled to the tub of the washing apparatus in which the assembly 1 is configured to operate.

The assembly 1 may further comprise at least one rotation support element 14, the rotation support element 14 being engaged with the first shaft 11 and configured to support the first shaft 11 in rotation. Preferably, the assembly 1 comprises a first pair of rotary support elements 14 engaged with the first shaft 11 at or near respective opposite axial ends of the first shaft 11. Each rotation support element 14 is configured to support the first shaft 11 in rotation and to allow the first shaft 11 to rotate with respect to the second shaft 12 and/or vice versa. Each rotational support element 14 engaged with the first shaft 11 may comprise at least one bearing. The second shaft 12 may provide or be configured to receive a housing of the rotational support member 14. The second shaft 12 may also be configured to provide a shoulder that provides an abutment for the rotary support member 14.

The assembly 1 further comprises a first rotary guide member 15 interposed between the first shaft 11 and the first drum 2. The first rotation guide member 15 is integral with the first shaft 11 and is configured to guide the first drum 2 to rotate. For this purpose, the first rotary guide member 15 engages with the bottom 2b of the first drum 2. In the operating condition of the assembly, the first drum 2 can rotate integrally with the first rotary guide member 15. As shown in the drawings, the first rotary guide member 15 includes a stop (cross). The stop 15 may be made of a plastic or polymer material or preferably a metal material. The stop 15 has a fulcrum portion 15a and a plurality of spokes 15b, each spoke 15b extending from the fulcrum portion 15a and away from the fulcrum portion 15 a. The spokes 15b are preferably angularly equally spaced from each other. In the embodiment shown in the drawings, the stop 15 has three spokes (see fig. 2).

In the following, the operative connection between the second motor member 10 and the second drum 3 is described. The assembly 1 includes a second power transmitting member 16 operatively interposed between the second motor member 10 and the second shaft 12. The second power transmission member 16 is configured to receive power from the second motor member 10 and transmit the power to the second shaft 12, and thereby rotate the second drum 3. The second power transmission member 16 includes a pulley 16a and a belt 16b engaged with the pulley 16 a. A belt 16b is operatively interposed between the second motor member 10 and the pulley 16a and is configured to receive power from the second motor member 10 and transmit power to the pulley 16 a. The pulley 16a is operatively interposed between the belt 16b and the secondary shaft 12 and is configured to receive power from the belt 16b and transmit power and rotational motion to the secondary shaft 12. The pulley 16a of the second power transmission member 16 extends at least partially parallel to the pulley 13a of the first power transmission member 13. As shown in the drawing, the pulley 16a of the second power transmission member 16 is arranged side by side with the pulley 13a of the first power transmission member 13. Similarly, the belt 16b of the second power transmission member 16 may extend in a plane parallel to the belt 13b of the first power transmission member 13 (see fig. 4). The belt 16b of the second power transmission member 16 is preferably juxtaposed with the belt 13b of the first power transmission member 13. This arrangement of belts 13b, 16b and pulleys 13a, 16a advantageously makes assembly 1 compact.

In an alternative embodiment, in which the second motor member 10 is of the direct transmission type, the second motor member 10 comprises a rotor directly coupled to the second shaft 12 and therefore to the second drum 3, and a stator coupled to the tub of the washing apparatus in which the assembly 1 is configured to operate.

The assembly 1 may further comprise at least one rotation support element 17, the rotation support element 17 being engaged with the second shaft 12 and configured to support the second shaft 12 in rotation. Preferably, the assembly 1 comprises a second pair of rotary support elements 17 engaged with the second shaft 12 at or near respective opposite axial ends of the second shaft 12. Each rotation support element 17 is configured to support the second shaft 12 in rotation and to allow the second shaft 12 to rotate with respect to the tub of the washing apparatus in which the second drum 3 is rotatably housed. Each rotary support element 17 engaged with the second shaft 12 may comprise at least one bearing which may be housed in a suitable seat on a hub integrated in the tub of the washing apparatus.

The assembly 1 further comprises a second rotary guide member 18 interposed between the second shaft 12 and the second drum 3. The second rotation guide member 18 is formed integrally with the second shaft 12 and is configured to guide the second drum 3 to rotate. For this purpose, the second rotary guide member 18 engages with the second drum 3 at the outer surface of the drum shell 3a of the second drum 3. The second rotary guide member 18 may engage with the second drum 3 at the curved edge 6 of the first end 3b of the second drum 3. As shown in the detail of fig. 4 and 5, the second rotary guide member 18 engages with the second drum 3 at the end section 6b "of the second bend 6b of the curved edge 6 of the second drum 3. In the operating condition of the assembly, the second drum 3 can rotate integrally with the second rotary guide member 18. From a structural point of view, the second rotary guide member 18 surrounds the first rotary guide member 15 and the first drum 2. This mutual arrangement of the rotation guide members 15, 18 advantageously makes the assembly 1 compact. As shown in the drawings, the second rotary guide member 18 includes a stop bar. The stop 18 may be made of a metallic material or, preferably, a plastic or polymeric material. The stop 18 has a fulcrum portion 18a and a plurality of spokes 18b, each spoke 18b extending from the fulcrum portion 18a and away from the fulcrum portion 18 a. The spokes 18b are preferably angularly equally spaced from each other. Each spoke 18b of the bars 18 of the second rotary guide member has a first portion 18b 'and a second portion 18b "transverse to the first portion 18 b'. Preferably, the first portion 18b' and the second portion 18b "of the same spoke 18 are substantially orthogonal to each other. In the following, the first portion 18b' and the second portion 18b "of the same spoke 18b are described. The first portion 18b' engages the fulcrum portion 18a and is disposed between the fulcrum portion 18a and the second portion 18b ". The first portion 18b' has a substantially fan-like shape. The first portion 18b' is substantially parallel to at least one spoke 15b of the stop 15 of the first rotary guide member. The first portion 18b' is alongside the bottom 2b of the first drum 2 and extends close to the bottom 2 b. The second portion 18b "extends at least partially axially parallel to the outer surface of the first cylinder 2 with respect to the first cylinder 2. The second portion 18b "at least partially exceeds the first roller 2 and has one end engaged with the second roller 3. A gap is defined between the second portion 18b "and the shell 2a of the first drum 2. It is advantageous to reduce the gap as much as possible to maximize the capacity of the drum 2 (see fig. 4). This gap is sufficient to ensure that the second portion 18b "does not interfere with the free rotation of the first cylinder 2. Each spoke 18b of the stop bar 18 of the second rotary guide member has a plurality of holes 19. The holes 19 are sized and intended to allow the passage of the washing liquid under the operating conditions of the assembly 1. The aperture 19 may be defined at least one between the first portion 18b' and the second portion 18b ". The holes 19 of the second portion 18b "are particularly intended not to hinder the discharge of the washing liquid from the first drum 2 during the centrifugation step. As shown in fig. 3, the apertures 19 are preferably defined at both the first portion 18b' and the second portion 18b "of each spoke 18 b. As shown in fig. 3, the holes 19 defined on the first portion 18b 'of the spokes 18b of the second bar 18 may substantially face the holes 2b' defined at the bottom 2b of the drum 2. The arrangement of the holes 19 in the first portions 18b' of the spokes 18b of the second crosspiece 18 advantageously allows an optimal flow of washing liquid away from the bottom 2b of the first drum 2 in a substantially axial direction with respect to the first drum 2. The arrangement of the holes 19 in the second portion 18b "of the spokes 18b of the second crosspiece 18 advantageously allows an optimal flow of the washing liquid, in a substantially radial direction with respect to the first drum 2, away from the casing 2a of the first drum 2. The stop bar 18 advantageously comprises a connecting part 20, the connecting part 20 being connected to the second portion 18b "of the spoke 18 b. As shown in the figures, the connecting means 20 comprise a connecting ring extending circumferentially around the rotation axis of the first and second drums 2, 3. The connection ring 20 has a plurality of connection portions 21. Each connecting portion 21 is defined at or near the second portion 18b ″ of the corresponding spoke 18b of the bar 18 and connects the spoke 18b to the shell 3a of the second drum 3. The assembly 1 can provide a number of connecting portions 21 equal to the number of spokes 18b of the stop bar 18. In the embodiment shown in the drawings, the bars 18 have five spokes 18b and five connecting portions 21.

The invention also relates to the use of the above-mentioned assembly 1 in a washing apparatus. The assembly 1 may be used in a laundry washing cycle. In use, the first and second rollers 2, 3 adopt at least one of the aforementioned operating configurations, or any combination thereof. In use, the first and second rollers 2, 3 preferably rotate at different rotational speeds and additionally or alternatively according to different rotational directions.

The invention also relates to a washing apparatus comprising an assembly 1 of the above-mentioned type. The washing device may be of the horizontal or inclined axis type, the inclination of which with respect to the horizontal is less than 30 °, particularly advantageously less than 15 °. For an appliance of the type having a horizontal axis, it is meant that in the washing apparatus the rotation axis a of the first drum 2 and of the second drum 3 is substantially horizontal. Preferably, the washing apparatus is a washing machine. The washing apparatus includes a housing. The housing includes upper and lower portions and a plurality of sides. The side extends between the upper and lower portions. The housing includes between two and six sides. Preferably, the housing comprises up to four sides. The side may include a front wall and a rear wall and a pair of side walls opposite to each other. The housing may have a parallelepiped shape. The housing is configured to house the above-described components of the assembly. In particular, the casing houses: a first drum 2, a second drum 3, a first motor member 9, a second motor member 10, a first shaft 11, a second shaft 12, a first power transmission member 13, a second power transmission part 16, a first rotation guide part 15, a second rotation guide part 18 and rotation support elements 14, 17. The first power transmission member 13 and the second power transmission member 16 are preferably arranged side by side and near the same side of the housing. Similarly, the first motor member 9 and the second motor member 10 may be arranged side by side and near the same side. The power transmission members 13, 16 are preferably arranged near the rear wall of the housing. The first motor member 9 and the second motor member 10 may be placed at the lower part of the housing, each close to a respective side wall. Preferably, the first motor member is placed adjacent the first side wall and the second motor member is placed adjacent the second side wall. The washing apparatus also includes a tub received within the housing and adapted to receive a washing liquid. The tub accommodates a first drum 2 and a second drum 3.

The washing apparatus may also provide a housing for housing a rotary support element 17, the rotary support element 17 supporting the second shaft 12 in rotation. The washing device may also have a shoulder configured to provide abutment for the rotary support element 17. The shoulder and the housing may be defined at the tub, or on a hub integrated in the tub.

The washing apparatus also includes a door engaged with the housing. The door body is preferably hinged to one side of the housing. The door body is configured to operate at least between a closed configuration and an open configuration. In the closed configuration, the door blocks the inlet opening (the entry opening for entering the washing chamber defined at the second end 3c of the second drum 3) to prevent access to the washing chamber. And in the open configuration, the door body provides access to the access opening to the washing chamber to allow access to the washing chamber. In the closed configuration, the door body is positioned in front of the second end of the second drum.

The washing apparatus further comprises a control unit configured to operate the first motor member 9 and the second motor member 10 so as to achieve any one of the above-described operating configurations of the first drum 2 and the second drum 3 or any combination of these operating configurations.

The invention also relates to a method for operating at least one of the cylinders 2, 3. The method is used for arranging an assembly 1 of the type described above. The method can rotate the first drum 2 and the second drum 3 selectively and independently of each other. In particular, the method allows the second cylinder 3 to rotate independently of the first cylinder 2. The method may also be used to rotate the first drum 2. The step of rotating the second drum 3 may be subsequent to the step of rotating the first drum 2, or may precede it. In one embodiment, the steps of rotating the first drum 2 and the second drum 3 are substantially simultaneous. According to a possible operating configuration, the second drum 3 can rotate in a manner that is different from the rotation speed of the first drum 2 and, in addition or alternatively, in a different direction from the rotation of the first drum 2. The method may also comprise at least one of the following steps or any combination of the following steps, intended to achieve the operating configuration described above with reference to the assembly 1: the first drum 2 rotates at a first rotational speed and the second drum 3 rotates at a second rotational speed; the first drum 2 rotates at a first speed, while the second drum 3 has a second speed of rotation of zero; the second drum 3 rotates at the second rotation speed, and the first rotation speed of the first drum 2 is 0; the first drum 2 and the second drum 3 rotate at the same rotation speed; the first drum 2 rotates in a first direction of rotation and the second drum 3 rotates in a second direction of rotation; the first drum 2 and the second drum 3 rotate in the same rotational direction. By keeping the second drum 3 stationary, the step of rotating the first drum 2 at the first rotational speed while the second rotational speed of the second drum 3 is zero may be performed. Similarly, the step of rotating the second drum 3 at the second rotation speed while the first rotation speed of the first drum 2 is zero may be performed by keeping the first drum 2 stationary. The method may also provide for adjusting the operating configuration of the first drum 2 and, additionally or alternatively, adjusting the operating configuration of the second drum 3. Adjustment of the operating configuration of the first cylinder 2, and additionally or alternatively, adjustment of the second cylinder 3, substantially changes the operating configuration of the second and third cylinders 3 of the first cylinder 2. The operating configuration of the first drum 2 and, in addition or alternatively, the operating configuration of the second drum 3 can be adjusted according to a specific washing cycle or a specific step of the same washing cycle. The adjustment of the operating configuration of the drums 2, 3 may be performed by selecting or adjusting the rotational speed of at least one of the drums 2, 3. Furthermore, the adjustment of the operating configuration of the cylinders 2, 3 may be performed by selecting or reversing the direction of rotation of at least one of the cylinders 2, 3.

THE ADVANTAGES OF THE PRESENT INVENTION

The present invention allows one or more of the following advantages to be obtained and one or more problems encountered in the prior art to be solved.

Firstly, the present invention provides an assembly 1 for a washing apparatus capable of ensuring an optimal movement of the items contained in the washing chamber. The optimal movement of the articles is ensured by the possibility of independent movement, for example of the first and second rollers 2, 3 at independent speeds or in independent directions of rotation. In this way, the assembly 1 can optimize the treatment of the articles and the efficiency of the washing cycle of the articles. By optimizing the efficiency of the wash cycle, the time required to complete the wash cycle can be advantageously reduced.

In addition, the present invention provides an assembly 1 for a washing apparatus which allows to reduce the quantity of detergent used in the washing cycle, in particular with respect to known solutions, thus being advantageous both from an environmental point of view and from an economic point of view.

The invention provides an assembly 1 for a washing apparatus having a first drum 2 and a second drum 3, the drums 2, 3 being configured to be moved independently by means of movement devices 9, 10, thereby enabling particularly effective washing. The assembly 1 according to the invention can advantageously be operated according to a plurality of operating configurations of the first 2 and second 3 rollers. The invention then provides an assembly 1 for a washing apparatus, which has considerable operational flexibility. The possibility of operating between a plurality of operating configurations due to the difference in speed and/or direction of rotation of the first drum 2 and the second drum 3 advantageously allows the assembly 1 to manage the treatment of the articles contained in the washing chamber. This is achieved by adjusting the operating configuration of the first and second rollers 2, 3 and thus the mechanical action on the article determined by the first and second rollers 2, 3.

By adjusting the mechanical action of the first drum 2 and the second drum 3 on the articles, the assembly 1 is advantageously able to manage and regulate the movement of the articles inside the washing chamber. The assembly 1 is therefore able to manage, adjust and advantageously differentiate, if necessary, the operating configurations of the first drum 2 and of the second drum 3 according to a specific washing cycle or specific steps of the same washing cycle. The assembly 1 therefore advantageously allows managing, regulating and, if necessary, differentiating the movement of the items inside the washing chamber according to a specific washing cycle or a specific step of the same washing cycle. The assembly 1 for a washing apparatus according to the present invention is capable of operating the items contained in the washing chamber with an optimized mechanical action, to ensure an optimal way of treating and washing the items and with a low consumption of detergent. In particular, the mechanical action performed on the article by the independent rotation of the first drum 2 and the second drum 3 advantageously determines, in particular in the interface zone 4, an optimal friction of the article. The optimum mechanical action is achieved by rubbing of the article similar to that of typical hand washing.

In addition, the assembly 1 advantageously has a compact structure. This compactness is possible thanks to the arrangement of the components of the assembly 1 described above, which allows housing the first drum 2, the second drum 3 and the movement means 9, 10 to optimize the space available inside the washing apparatus. In particular, by accommodating the first shaft 11 within the second shaft 12 and by accommodating the first rotary guide member 15 within the space defined by the second rotary guide member 18 (so that the second rotary guide member 18 surrounds the first rotary guide member 15), a compact arrangement of the components of the assembly 1 is obtained. In addition, the space required to accommodate the assembly 1 is further optimized by placing the first power transmission member 13 and the second power transmission member 16 side by side. Due to this arrangement of the components of the assembly 1, the size of the assembly 1 and the washing apparatus can be minimized. Advantageously, the size of the assembly 1 and of the washing apparatus of the invention is substantially comparable to, or smaller than, the size of the assemblies 1 and of the washing apparatuses of the conventional type (only one drum being provided).

Providing the first drum 2 and the second drum 3 with the same inner diameter D2, D3 at the interface zone 4 allows, firstly, to obtain a particularly efficient item washing cycle. As shown in the figures, the constancy of the diameters D2, D3 at the interface region 4 substantially provides a surface of the interface region 4 that is substantially free from obstructions to the rotation and movement of articles present within the washing chamber. Thus, the articles can be moved inside the washing chamber without any risk of getting stuck in the interface zone 4 between the first drum 2 and the second drum 3. Furthermore, the assembly 1 according to the invention allows to prevent the articles from being undesirably torn or damaged during the washing process. In addition, providing the first and second rollers 2, 3 with the same inner diameters D2, D3 at the interface zone 4 advantageously allows the free transition of the article between the first and second rollers 2, 3 and vice versa in the operating conditions of the assembly 1. Thus, in the operating conditions of the assembly 1, the articles are not constrained or hindered to remain in a specific drum 2, 3, but can be moved and transferred between the first drum 2 and the second drum 3, for example according to the rotation speed of the drums 2, 3 or a specific washing cycle.

In addition to the above advantages, providing the first drum 2 and the second drum 3 with the same inner diameter D2, D3 advantageously allows maximizing the volume of the washing chamber, which may be substantially equal to or even greater than the volume of a conventional washing chamber defined by a single drum.

Another advantage of the present invention is that the assembly 1 prevents or hinders the intrusion of articles into the gap defined by the interface zone 4 between the first and second rollers 2, 3. The first and second rollers 2 and 3 have the same inner diameters D2, D3 at the interface region 4, so that the gap between the first and second rollers 2 and 3 can be minimized. In addition, by providing edges 5, 6 in the interface zone 4, which edges 5, 6 are curved and at least partially overlap the first and second rollers 2, 3 or the intrusion prevention element 7, the intrusion of objects into the gap is further assisted prevented or impeded.

The assembly 1 of the invention also allows to optimally extract and flow the washing liquid towards the outside of the washing chamber, in particular during the centrifugation step, wherein the first drum and the second drum are generally rotating in the same direction of rotation. Usually during the washing step, also by means of rotation in opposite directions of the first drum 2 and the second drum 3. By providing the holes 2b', 19 as described above, the extraction and flow of the washing liquid can also be optimized. In particular, the holes 19 located in the first portion 18b' and additionally or alternatively in the second portion 18b "of the second rotating guide member 18 advantageously optimize the extraction and flow of the washing liquid.

Another advantage of the present invention is that the assembly 1 can be operated as if it had a single drum, if desired, for example during a particular step of the washing cycle. Such a possibility can be achieved by rotating the first drum 2 and the second drum 3 at the same rotational speed and in the same rotational direction.

These advantages apply, mutatis mutandis, to the above-mentioned use of the assembly 1, the washing apparatus (in particular a laundry washing machine), and the method for moving at least one drum.

The invention is also easy to use and actuate.