FILTER FOR AN APPLIANCE FOR WASHING LAUNDRY OR TEXTILE ARTICLES

Abstract

A filter assembly for filtering a fluid used in an appliance for washing laundry or textile articles and including a filtering element including a filtering surface and enclosing an inlet chamber adapted to receive the fluid and including a first inlet chamber portion associated with a first filtering surface portion of the filtering surface, and a second inlet chamber portion associated with a second filtering surface portion of the filtering surface; a housing adapted to house the filtering element; an outlet chamber defined by a volume between the filtering element and the housing for receiving the filtered fluid resulting from the passage of the fluid from the inlet chamber through the filtering surface of the filtering element; an inlet in fluid connection with the first inlet chamber portion, through which fluid is supplied to the first inlet chamber portion; an outlet; a scraper device operable to rotate about a rotation axis to remove filtered contaminants from the first filtering surface portion during rotation of the scraper device, and to move the removed filtered contaminants away from the first inlet chamber portion; a collection region for collecting the removed filtered contaminants and moved away from the first inlet chamber portion; and a fluid connection device for selectively enabling and disabling a fluid connection between the first and second inlet chamber portions.

Claims

1-14. (canceled)

15. A filter assembly for filtering a fluid used in a laundry or textile articles washing appliance, the filter assembly comprising: a filtering element comprising a filtering surface and enclosing an inlet chamber adapted to receive the fluid, wherein the inlet chamber comprises a first inlet chamber portion associated with a first filtering surface portion of the filtering surface, and a second inlet chamber portion associated with a second filtering surface portion of the filtering surface; a housing adapted to house the filtering element; an outlet chamber defined by a volume comprised between the filtering element and the housing for receiving filtered fluid resulting from passage of the fluid from the inlet chamber through the filtering surface of the filtering element: an inlet fluidly connected to the first inlet chamber portion through which the fluid is supplied to the first inlet chamber portion; an outlet fluidly connected to the outlet chamber through which the filtered fluid exits the outlet chamber; a scraper device operable to rotate about a rotation axis for removing filtered contaminants from the first filtering surface portion during rotation of the scraper device, and to move the removed filtered contaminants away from the first inlet chamber portion; a collection region for collecting the filtered contaminants removed and moved away from the first inlet chamber portion, and a fluid connection device for selectively enabling and disabling a fluid connection between the first and second inlet chamber portions, wherein: the scraper device is movable with respect to the filtering element along the rotation axis from a rest position to a shifted position as a result of a pushing action exerted on the scraper device by the collected filtered contaminants, and the fluid connection device is movable together with the scraper device and is configured to: enable the fluid connection when the scraper device is in the shifted position, thereby allowing the fluid to flow from the inlet to the second inlet chamber portion through the first inlet chamber portion and to be filtered by the second filtering surface portion, and disable the fluid connection when the scraper device is in the rest position thereby fluidly separating the first and second inlet chamber portions from each other and allowing the fluid to be filtered by the first filtering surface portion.

16. The filter assembly of claim 15, wherein the scraper device comprises an endless screw comprising a shaft and a helicoidal body surrounding the shaft and configured to mechanically interact with the first filtering surface portion.

17. The filter assembly of claim 15, wherein the filter assembly comprises a separation wall for separating the first and second inlet chamber portions from each other, and an aperture formed in the separation wall, and wherein the fluid connection device is configured to close the aperture when the scraper device is in the rest position and to open the aperture when the scraper device is in the shifted position.

18. The filter assembly according to claim 16, wherein the shaft is movable along the rotation axis by passing through the aperture, and wherein the fluid connection device comprises a portion enlarging the shaft.

19. The filter assembly of claim 16, wherein the fluid connection device comprises a sealing member to sealingly close the aperture when the scraper device is in the rest position.

20. The filter assembly of claim 19, wherein the sealing member is a gasket.

21. The filter assembly of claim 15, further comprising a pushing element configured to contrast the pushing action exerted on the scraper device by the contaminants collected in the collection region.

22. The filter assembly of claim 15, wherein, during rotation of the scraper device, the scraper device moves the removed filtered contaminants away from the first inlet chamber portion in a first direction along the rotation axis, and wherein the pushing action is exerted along the rotation axis in a second direction opposite the first direction.

23. The filter assembly of claim 15, further comprising: a bypass chamber separated from the inlet chamber and fluidly connected to the outlet chamber, and a fluid communication device configured to enable a fluid communication between the second inlet chamber portion and the bypass chamber in presence of a clogging of the second filtering surface portion, thereby allowing unfiltered fluid passing through the first and second inlet chamber portions to flow towards the outlet.

24. The filter assembly of claim 15, wherein at least one of the first and second filtering surface portions comprises a mesh having a size configured to retain particles having a minimum dimension between 0.1 m and 5 mm.

25. The filter assembly of claim 15, further comprising: a sensing device configured to determine the enablement or the disablement of the fluid connection, and an output arrangement configured to provide output information comprising filling information about a filling status of the collection region, wherein the filling information comprises a response to the determination by the sensing device of the enablement of the fluid connection.

26. The filter assembly of claim 15, wherein the first inlet chamber portion is arranged between the collection region and the second inlet chamber portion.

27. A laundry or textile articles washing appliance comprising: a control unit configured to control a laundry or textile articles treating operation of the appliance; a drain pipe configured to drain fluid from a laundry or textile articles treating chamber into a recirculation conduit to supply the fluid back to the laundry or textile articles treating chamber and/or into a drain outside the appliance; and a filter assembly of claim 15, wherein the inlet of the filter assembly is fluidly connected to the drain pipe and the outlet of the filter assembly is fluidly connected to the recirculation conduit and/or the drain.

28. A method for operating a filter assembly according to claim 15, the method comprising: operating the scraper device to be rotated about the rotation axis; removing filtered contaminants from the first filtering surface portion during rotation of the scraper device; moving the removed filtered contaminants away from the first inlet chamber portion by means of the rotation of the scraper device; collecting the removed filtered contaminants moved away from the first inlet chamber portion in the collection region; and enabling the fluid connection between the first inlet chamber portion and the second inlet chamber portion thereby allowing the fluid to flow from the inlet to the second inlet chamber portion through the first inlet chamber portion and to be filtered by the second filtering surface portion, said enabling being caused by the scraper device moving from the rest position to the shifted position as a result of the pushing action exerted on the scraper device by the collected filtered contaminants.

29. The method of claim 28, further comprising: coupling the filter assembly to a laundry or textile articles washing appliance, the coupling comprising: fluidly connecting the inlet of the filter assembly to a drain pipe of the appliance, wherein the drain pipe is configured to drain fluid from a treating chamber into a recirculation conduit to supply the fluid back to the treating chamber and/or into a drain outside the appliance; fluidly connecting the outlet of the filter assembly to the recirculation conduit to supply fluid back to the treating chamber and/or connecting the outlet of the filter assembly to the drain outside the appliance; and communicatively coupling the control unit of the appliance to filter assembly.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0100] The features and advantages of the present invention outlined in the preceding section, as well as other features and advantages, will become apparent from reading the following detailed description of its possible exemplary and non-limiting embodiments. The following description will be better understood by referring, in the reading, to the attached figures, in which:

[0101] FIGS. 1A and 1B show isometric views of a filter assembly in accordance with an exemplary embodiment;

[0102] FIG. 1C shows an exploded isometric view of the filter assembly of FIGS. 1A and 1B;

[0103] FIG. 1D shows a front view of the filter assembly of FIGS. 1A and 1B;

[0104] FIGS. 1E and 1F show sectional views of the filter assembly of FIGS. 1A and 1B in a first operational condition;

[0105] FIG. 1G shows a sectional view of the filter assembly of FIGS. 1A and 1B in a second operating condition, and

[0106] FIG. 2 shows in a schematic way an example of the connection of a filter assembly to an appliance for washing laundry or textile articles.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EXEMPLARY AND NON-LIMITING EMBODIMENTS OF THE PRESENT INVENTION

[0107] Referring to the drawings, FIGS. 1A-1G show a filter assembly 100 in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. In particular, FIG. 1A shows a front isometric view of the filter assembly 100, FIG. 1B shows a rear isometric view of the filter assembly 100, FIG. 1C shows an exploded isometric view of the filter assembly 100, FIG. 1D shows a front view of the filter assembly 100, FIGS. 1E and 1F show sectional views of the filter assembly 100 (along the sectional axes E-E and F-F, respectively, shown in FIG. 1D) in a first operating condition, and FIG. 1G shows a sectional view of the filter assembly 100 (along the sectional axis E-E shown in FIG. 1D) in a second operating condition.

[0108] The filter assembly 100 is particularly advantageous when used to filter fluid to be discharged from, or recirculated into, an appliance for washing laundry or textile articles (hereinafter, for brevity, washing appliance), for example for domestic or professional use, such as a washing machine or a washer-dryer.

[0109] However, the filter assembly 100 is not intended exclusively for this use. The filter assembly 100 can in fact be conveniently used to filter fluids used by various types of washing appliances.

[0110] The filter assembly 100 is particularly advantageous when used to filter a fluid from microplastics contained therein, so as to prevent such microplastics from being recirculated into the washing appliance, and/or from being discharged outside the washing appliance, and therefore into the environment, with consequent significant environmental impact.

[0111] However, the filter assembly 100 is not intended solely for filtering fluids from microplastics. The filter assembly 100 can in fact be used to filter different types of contaminants, such as fluff, for example wool and/or cotton microfibers released from textile articles during washing.

[0112] In the following, only those components of the filter assembly 100 deemed relevant to understanding the exemplary embodiments discussed will be described.

[0113] In the following, directional terminology (e.g., top, bottom, front, rear, center, side) will be used only to describe the filter assembly 100 according to a specific orientation of use thereof, and is therefore in no way to be understood in absolute terms. In particular, the directional terminology used below will refer to the three orthogonal directions X, Y, Z which identify, respectively, a longitudinal direction, a transverse direction, and a vertical direction.

[0114] In the exemplary embodiment, the plane containing the X and Y directions identifies a support surface, such as a floor, on which a washing appliance, to which the filter unit 100 is associated or can be associated, lies during its operation.

[0115] In the exemplary embodiment, the filter assembly 100 includes a filtering element 105.

[0116] In the exemplary embodiment, the filtering element 105 comprises a filtering surface. In the exemplary embodiment, such filtering surface comprises a mesh 105.sub.M, i.e. a wire structure, possibly woven, defining an open weave equipped with uniformly spaced openings.

[0117] In the exemplary embodiment, the filtering element 105, and in particular the mesh 105.sub.M, comprises or is made of a flexible material, so as to allow easy handling during maintenance operations, such as cleaning operations. Without loss of generality, the mesh 105.sub.M may comprise or be made of polyethylene and/or metal material.

[0118] In the exemplary embodiment, the mesh 105.sub.M has a size (hereinafter, mesh size) such as to retain particles having a minimum size between 0.1 m and 5 mm, preferably a minimum size between 10 m and 100 m, and more preferably a minimum size between 10 m and 75 m. In the exemplary embodiment, the mesh size corresponds to the size of the openings defined by the mesh 105.sub.M.

[0119] This mesh size allows the filtration, from a treatment or washing fluid, of contaminants smaller than 5 mm, such as microplastic elements, such as, for example, microfilaments that detach from synthetic fabrics during a washing treatment and/or lint, such as, for example, wool and/or cotton microfibres originating from textile articles treated by the washing appliance and contained in the washing fluid.

[0120] In the exemplary embodiment, the filtering element 105 includes a frame 105.sub.F (e.g., a rigid or semi-rigid frame) to provide structural strength to the filtering element 105. Without loss of generality, the frame 105.sub.F may be made of plastic or polymeric material, and/or metallic material. In the exemplary embodiment, the frame 105.sub.F comprises horizontal and vertical frame portions that delimit a plurality of openings that expose respective portions of the mesh 105.sub.M.

[0121] In the exemplary embodiment, the filtering element 105 generally has a tubular shape. Therefore, in the exemplary embodiment, the filtering element 105 constitutes a so-called cartridge.

[0122] In the exemplary embodiment, the filtering element 105 encloses an inlet chamber 110 adapted to receive (from the washing apparatus) the fluid to be filtered.

[0123] In the exemplary embodiment, the inlet chamber 110 substantially corresponds to the internal volume, in particular cylindrical, of the filtering element 105.

[0124] In the exemplary embodiment, a prevailing extension dimension of the inlet chamber 110 extends along the longitudinal direction X, or, in other words, the greatest extension of the inlet chamber 110 is along the longitudinal direction X. This results in a generally horizontal orientation or development of the filter assembly 100.

[0125] In alternative embodiments, not shown, the prevailing extension dimension of the inlet chamber extends along the vertical direction Z, or, in other words, the greatest extension of the inlet chamber is along the vertical direction Z. This results in a generally vertical orientation or development of the filter assembly 100.

[0126] In the following, the operating principles, characteristics, variants, and advantages discussed by way of example in relation to the filter assembly with generally horizontal development apply in an equivalent manner, taking into account the necessary changes, to a filter assembly with generally vertical development.

[0127] In the exemplary embodiment, the inlet chamber 110 comprises a first inlet chamber portion (hereinafter, main inlet chamber portion) 110.sub.M associated with a first filtering surface portion (of the filtering surface) of the filtering element 105 (hereinafter, main filtering surface portion), and a second inlet chamber portion (hereinafter, auxiliary inlet chamber portion) 110.sub.A associated with a second filtering surface portion (of the filtering surface) of the filtering element 105 (hereinafter, auxiliary filtering surface portion). The main inlet chamber portion 110.sub.M and the auxiliary inlet chamber portion 110.sub.A are visible in FIGS. 1E and 1G.

[0128] In the exemplary embodiment, the auxiliary inlet chamber portion 110.sub.A is in selective fluid separation from the main inlet chamber portion 110.sub.M, as further discussed below.

[0129] In the exemplary embodiment, the filter assembly 100 includes a filter housing 115 adapted to house the filtering element 105.

[0130] In the exemplary embodiment, the filter housing 115 has a generally tubular shape, for example a generally cylindrical shape.

[0131] In the exemplary embodiment, the filter assembly 100 includes an outlet chamber 120 (visible in FIGS. 1E and 1G) defined by a volume between the filtering element 105 and the filter housing 115 when the filtering element 105 is seated in the filter housing 115.

[0132] In the exemplary embodiment, the outlet chamber 120 receives the filtered fluid resulting from the passage of fluid from the inlet chamber 110, in particular, from the main inlet chamber portion 110.sub.M and/or from the auxiliary inlet chamber portion 110.sub.A, as discussed below, through the filtering element 105, i.e., through its filtering surface, in particular the main filtering surface portion and/or the auxiliary filtering surface portion, as discussed below.

[0133] In the exemplary embodiment considered in which the filtering element 105 and the filter housing 115 have a generally tubular shape, the outlet chamber 120 has a generally hollow cylindrical shape.

[0134] In the exemplary embodiment, the filter assembly 100 includes an inlet IN (visible in FIGS. 1A and 1B), in fluid connection with the main inlet chamber portion 110.sub.M, through which fluid is supplied to the main inlet chamber portion 110.sub.M.

[0135] In the exemplary embodiment, the inlet IN of the filter assembly 100 is adapted to be coupled with a conduit C of the washing appliance to receive from the washing appliance the fluid to be filtered. For example, the conduit C may be part of a fluid recirculation system of the washing appliance configured to recirculate in the washing appliance the fluid already previously used by the washing appliance, such that the recirculated fluid is reused. Additionally, or alternatively, the conduit C may be part of a drain system of the washing appliance configured to discharge the fluid into a drain external to the washing appliance.

[0136] In the exemplary embodiment, the filter assembly 100 includes an inlet channel (not visible in the figures) for channeling fluid from the inlet IN to the main inlet chamber portion 110.sub.M.

[0137] In the exemplary embodiment, the filter assembly 100 includes an outlet OUT (visible in FIGS. 1A and 1B), in fluid connection with the outlet chamber 120, and through which the (filtered) fluid exits the outlet chamber 120.

[0138] In the exemplary embodiment, the outlet OUT of the filter assembly 100 is adapted to be coupled to a conduit C of the washing appliance to supply the filtered fluid outside of the filter assembly 100. For example, the conduit C may be part of a fluid recirculation system of the washing apparatus configured to recirculate fluid previously used by the washing appliance back into the washing appliance, thereby reusing the recirculated fluid. Additionally, or alternatively, the conduit C may be part of a drain system of the washing appliance configured to discharge fluid into a drain external to the washing appliance.

[0139] In the exemplary embodiment, the filter assembly 100 includes an output channel (not visible in the figure) to convey the filtered fluid from the outlet chamber 120 to the outlet OUT of the filter assembly 100.

[0140] In a normal operating condition of the filter assembly 100, where the auxiliary inlet chamber portion 110.sub.A is in fluid separation from the main inlet chamber portion 110.sub.M, the fluid is supplied, in particular through the conduit C, the inlet IN and the inlet channel, to the main inlet chamber portion 110.sub.M, the fluid is filtered passing through the main filtering surface portion of the filtering element 105 and reaches the outlet chamber 120, after which, through the conduit C, the filtered fluid is recirculated in the washing appliance or discharged into a drain external thereto.

[0141] In the exemplary embodiment, the filter assembly 100 includes a filter head 125. In the exemplary embodiment, the filter head 125 is adapted to close, at least partially, the filter housing 115. In the exemplary embodiment, the filter head 125 is arranged in a front region of the filter assembly 100, such front region for example representing, in use, a region of the filter assembly 100 visible and accessible from the front by the user for maintenance operations.

[0142] In the exemplary embodiment, the filter head 125 comprises a body 125.sub.B.

[0143] In the exemplary embodiment, the filter head 125 includes a cover 125.sub.C configured to close the body 125.sub.B.

[0144] In the exemplary embodiment, the cover 125.sub.C includes a handle portion 125H for handling the filter head 125.

[0145] In the exemplary embodiment, the cover 125.sub.C and the body 125.sub.B are made in a single piece. Without losing generality, the cover 125.sub.C and the body 125.sub.B can be coupled together, for example in a removable manner, for example by means of snap connections and/or screws.

[0146] In the exemplary embodiment, the filter head 125 and the filter housing 115 can be coupled together by means of a bayonet connection, for example by inserting the body 125.sub.B into the housing 115, and rotating the filter head 125 around its axis so that retaining elements 125R of the body 125.sub.B (visible in FIG. 1C) and retaining elements 115R of the housing 115 (visible in FIG. 1C) come into contact with each other and corresponding retaining surfaces engage.

[0147] In the exemplary embodiment, the filter assembly 100 includes a filter base 130.

[0148] In the exemplary embodiment, the filter base 130 has the shape of a cup (or lid, or cap) that delimits a hollow space.

[0149] In the exemplary embodiment, the filter base 130 is adapted to be removably coupled to a front end of the filtering element 105. For example, the filter base 130 is mateable to the filtering element 105 by snap connections, bayonet connections, or tightening elements such as screws. The filter base 130 may also be mated to the filtering element 105 by threaded coupling elements, preferably provided on both the filter base 130 and the filtering element 105, to allow the filter base 130 to be screwed onto the filtering element 105.

[0150] In the exemplary embodiment, the filter assembly 100 includes a collection region 130.sub.R. As will be described in more detail below, in the exemplary embodiment, the collection region 130.sub.R acts as a collection region to collect filtered contaminants (e.g., microplastics) removed and moved away from the main filtering surface portion.

[0151] In the exemplary embodiment, the collection region 130.sub.R is defined by the coupling between the filter base 130 and the filtering element 105.

[0152] In the exemplary embodiment, the main inlet chamber portion 110.sub.M is arranged between the collection region 130.sub.R, i.e., the filter base 130, and the auxiliary inlet chamber portion 110.sub.A. In the exemplary embodiment, the filter base 130 is adapted to be coupled, for example in a fixed or removable manner, to the filter head 125; in this way, during maintenance operations, the decoupling of the filter head 125 from the filter assembly 100 allows simple and immediate access to the collection region 130.sub.R.

[0153] In the exemplary embodiment, the filter assembly comprises 100 a separation wall 140 for separating the main inlet chamber portion 110.sub.M and the auxiliary inlet chamber portion 110.sub.A from each other.

[0154] In the exemplary embodiment, the separation wall 140 comprises a disc-shaped plate.

[0155] In the exemplary embodiment, the filter assembly 100 comprises one or more (e.g., two) connection elements 145 (visible in FIG. 1C and, in part, in FIGS. 1E and 1G) to mechanically and rigidly connect, i.e., in a firm manner, the separation wall 140 and the filter housing 115. In alternative embodiments, not shown, the separation wall 140 is made in a single piece with the filtering element 105 or with the filter housing 115; in such embodiments, the connecting elements 145 can therefore be omitted.

[0156] In the exemplary embodiment, the separation wall 140 is made in a single piece with the connecting elements 145.

[0157] In the exemplary embodiment, the separation wall 140 is configured to engage, for example with friction, a vertical frame portion of the filtering element 105, so that there is no space between them: this allows to obtain a clean and effective subdivision of the inlet chamber 110 into the main inlet chamber portion 110.sub.M and the auxiliary inlet chamber portion 110.sub.A.

[0158] In the exemplary embodiment, the separation wall 140 comprises an opening (hereinafter, inlet opening) 1400, visible in FIG. 1C, adapted to receive one end of the inlet channel, for example so as to allow the fluid, which from the inlet IN of the filter assembly 100 passes through the inlet channel, to enter the main inlet chamber portion 110.sub.M.

[0159] In the exemplary embodiment, the separation wall 140 comprises an opening (hereinafter, connection opening) 140H, visible in FIG. 1C, adapted to allow a selective fluid connection between the main inlet chamber portion 110.sub.M and the auxiliary inlet chamber portion 110.sub.A, as discussed below.

[0160] In the exemplary embodiment, the filter assembly 100 comprises a cleaning system operable to remove filtered contaminants (e.g., microplastics) from the filtering surface, in particular, from the main filtering surface portion of the filtering element 105.

[0161] In the exemplary embodiment, the cleaning system comprises a scraper device 150.

[0162] In the exemplary embodiment, the scraper device 150 is housed in the inlet chamber 110, specifically in the main inlet chamber portion 110.sub.M.

[0163] In the exemplary embodiment, the scraper device 150 is configured to be rotated, relative to the inlet chamber 110, in particular, relative to the main inlet chamber portion 110.sub.M, about a rotation axis R parallel to the longitudinal direction X, to remove filtered contaminants from the main filtering surface portion during rotation of the scraper device 150, and to move the removed filtered contaminants away from the main filtering surface portion.

[0164] In the exemplary embodiment, the scraper device 150 is configured to mechanically interact with the main filtering surface portion of the filtering element 105, i.e. with its inner side, in particular with the inner side of the mesh 105.sub.M of the main filtering surface portion, so as to scrape the main filtering surface portion during its rotation. As a result of the scraping action exerted by the rotation of the scraper device 150 within the main inlet chamber portion 110.sub.M, contaminants accumulated over time on the main filtering surface portion are removed therefrom.

[0165] In the exemplary embodiment, the scraper device 150 is configured to move, i.e., direct or convey or push or guide, the removed contaminants from the main inlet chamber portion 110.sub.M toward the collection region 130.sub.R. In this manner, the removed contaminants are collected in the collection region 130.sub.R. Since the filter base 130 can be removed (or decoupled) from the filtering element 105, the contaminants accumulated in the collection region 130.sub.R can then be easily extracted and properly disposed of, dramatically reducing their environmental impact.

[0166] In the exemplary embodiment, the scraper device 150 comprises an endless screw, such as an Archimedean screw, comprising a shaft (hereinafter, screw shaft) 150.sub.S and a helical body 150.sub.B, such as a helical blade, which surrounds the screw shaft 150.sub.S and is integral therewith. In other embodiments, instead of or in addition to a blade, the scraper device 150 may be provided with brush elements that mechanically interact with the main filtering surface portion.

[0167] In the exemplary embodiment, the helical body 150.sub.B is configured to mechanically interact with the main filtering surface portion, in particular with an inner side of the main filtering surface portion.

[0168] In the exemplary embodiment, the rotation of the scraper device 150 is achieved by rotating the screw shaft 150.sub.S, which rotation causes the consequent rotation of the helical body 150.sub.B. The main filtering surface portion of the filtering element 105 is then scraped by the helical body 150.sub.B, in particular by an edge region thereof which, during rotation, mechanically interacts therewith. The contaminants removed from the main filtering surface portion by the scraping action of the helical body 150.sub.B are then guided towards the collection region 130.sub.R by the helical shape of the helical body 150.sub.B during rotation.

[0169] In the exemplary embodiment, the filter assembly 100 comprises an electric motor M configured to rotatably drive the scraper device 150.

[0170] In the exemplary embodiment, the electric motor M is arranged or installed in a rear region of the filter assembly 100; the front region and the rear region of the filter assembly 100 being for example opposite to each other along the longitudinal direction X.

[0171] In the exemplary embodiment, the electric motor M can be removably coupled to the filter housing 115, for example by means of snap-fit or bayonet coupling elements or, as exemplarily illustrated, by means of clamping screws.

[0172] In the exemplary embodiment, the electric motor M comprises a drive shaft M.sub.S adapted to be coupled in rotation to the screw shaft 150.sub.S of the scraper device 150.

[0173] In the exemplary embodiment, the drive shaft M.sub.S is adapted to be rotatably coupled to the screw shaft 150.sub.S through a transmission mechanism 155.

[0174] In the exemplary embodiment, the scraper device 150 is movable relative to the filtering element 105 along the rotation axis R from a rest position (visible in FIG. 1E) to a shifted position (visible in FIG. 1G) as a result of a pushing action exerted on the scraper device 150 by the filtered contaminants collected (and accumulated in the collection region 130.sub.R).

[0175] In the exemplary embodiment, the filter assembly 100 includes one or more guide elements for guiding the movement of the scraper device 150 along the rotation axis R.

[0176] In the exemplary embodiment, the filter assembly 100 comprises two guide elements 160.sub.F, 160.sub.R (visible in FIGS. 1E and 1G) suitable for slidingly engaging, along the rotation axis R, respective ends of the scraper device 150.

[0177] In the exemplary embodiment, the filter assembly 100 comprises a front guide member 160.sub.F defining a cylindrical cavity, extending along the rotation axis R, adapted to receive a front end of the screw shaft 150.sub.S. In the exemplary embodiment, the front guide member 160.sub.F includes a sleeve arranged in a central portion of the filter base 130.

[0178] In the exemplary embodiment, the filter assembly 100 includes a rear guide member 160.sub.R defining a cylindrical cavity, extending along the rotation axis R, adapted to receive a rear end of the screw shaft 150.sub.S. In the exemplary embodiment, the rear guide member 160.sub.R includes a sleeve arranged at the drive mechanism 155. In the exemplary embodiment, the rear guide member 160.sub.R is arranged within the transmission mechanism 155.

[0179] In the exemplary embodiment, when the front end of the screw shaft 150.sub.S is housed in the front guide member 160.sub.F and the rear end of the screw shaft 150.sub.S is housed in the rear guide member 160.sub.R, the scraper device 150 is free to rotate about the rotation axis R and at the same time to translate or slide or move along the rotation axis R. In the exemplary embodiment, the extensions, along the rotation axis R, of the cylindrical cavities defined by the guide members 160.sub.F, 160.sub.R are sized so as to prevent the screw shaft 150.sub.S from coming out therefrom during translation.

[0180] In the exemplary embodiment, the scraper device 150 is movable with respect to the filtering element 105 along the rotation axis R from a rest position (visible in FIG. 1E), associated with a normal operating condition of the filter assembly 100, to a shifted position (visible in FIG. 1G), associated with an emergency operating condition, as a result of a pushing action exerted on the scraper device 150 by the filtered contaminants collected and accumulated in the collection region 130.sub.R.

[0181] In particular, when the contaminants accumulated in the collection region 130.sub.R are in such an amount as to reach, starting from the bottom of the collection region 130.sub.R, i.e. starting from the bottom surface of the filter base 130, the front end of the helical body 150.sub.B, i.e. the terminal end of the helical body 150.sub.B proximal to the front end of the screw shaft 150.sub.S, such an amount of contaminants can exert a pushing actionin the sense of a reaction force exerted by the contaminants on the lower end of the helical body 150.sub.B in reaction to the pushing action exerted by the front end of the helical body 150.sub.B-such as to push the scraper device 150, along the rotation axis R, away from the filter head 125.

[0182] Therefore, in the exemplary embodiment, during rotation of the scraper device 150, the scraper device 150 moves the removed filtered contaminants away from the main inlet chamber portion in a direction, hereinafter, action direction, VA along the rotation axis R, and the pushing action is exerted along the rotation axis R in a direction, hereinafter, reaction direction VR opposite to the action direction.

[0183] In the exemplary embodiment, the filter assembly 100 comprises a front end-of-stroke element 165.sub.F (visible in FIGS. 1E and 1G) associated with the front end of the screw shaft 150.sub.S, for example, with a part of the front end of the latter. In the exemplary embodiment, in the normal operating condition of the filter assembly 100, i.e., with the scraper device 150 in the rest position, as shown in FIG. 1E, the front end-of-stroke element 165.sub.F abuts or rests on the front guide element 160.sub.F.

[0184] As mentioned above, the normal operating condition corresponds to the case where the collection region 130.sub.R does not contain any contaminants, or the amount of contaminants present in the collection region 130.sub.R is not sufficient to cause the scraper device 150 to shift along the rotation axis R, in the reaction direction VR.

[0185] In the exemplary embodiment, in the rest condition of the scraper device 150, the front end of the helical body 150.sub.B is at least partially within the collection region 130.sub.R, i.e., it is at least partially in the volume enclosed by the filter base 130. It is particularly advantageous to provide a scraper device 150 which, when mounted in the filter assembly 100 and in the condition in which the collection region 130.sub.R is empty, i.e., it does not contain contaminants, extends inside the collection region for a length, measured along the rotation axis R, of between 1 mm and 10 mm, preferably between 1 mm and 5 mm.

[0186] According to a further sizing procedure of the scraper device 150, its shape can be defined in such a way that, when the scraper device 150 is mounted in the filter assembly 100, and in the condition in which the collection region 130.sub.R is empty, i.e., it does not contain contaminants, the volume occupied by the scraper device 150, within the collection region 130.sub.R, is between 5% and 25% of the volume of the collection region 130.sub.R, preferably between 5% and 15% of the volume of the collection region 130.sub.R, more preferably between 5% and 10% of the volume of the collection region 130.sub.R. The different size ranges or percentage ranges defined above for the linear penetration of the scraper device 150 within the collection region 130.sub.R or for the percentage of occupation of the volume of the collection region 130.sub.R by the scraper device 150, can be adopted, in embodiments, discussed below, which provide for the use of systems for sensing the movement or translation of the scraper device 150 along the rotation axis R caused by the accumulation of contaminants in the collection region 130.sub.R, based on a desired detection sensitivity of the sensing systems.

[0187] In the exemplary embodiment, the filter assembly 100 includes a rear end-of-stroke element 165R (visible in FIGS. 1E and 1G). In the exemplary embodiment, in the emergency operating condition of the filter assembly 100, i.e., with the scraper device 150 in the shifted position, as shown in FIG. 1G, an enlargement portion 170, discussed below, integral with the screw shaft 150.sub.S, abuts, or rests, on the rear end-of-stroke element 165R, and the front end-of-stroke element 165.sub.F is spaced apart from the front guide element 165.sub.F.

[0188] As mentioned above, the emergency operating condition corresponds to the case where the collection region 130.sub.R contains an amount of contaminants sufficient to cause the scraper device 150 to shift along the rotation axis R, in the reaction direction of VR.

[0189] Without loss of generality, the amount of contaminants accumulated in the collection region 130.sub.R required to push the scraper device 150 along the rotation axis R, in the reaction direction VR, may depend on one or more of the following geometric parameters: [0190] shape and/or size of the collection region 130.sub.R (i.e., of the 130 filter base); [0191] shape and/or size of the scraper device 150, and in particular of the front end of the helical body 150.sub.B; [0192] the distances between the bottom of the collection region 130.sub.R and the front end of the helical body 150.sub.B.

[0193] In the exemplary embodiment, the collection region 130.sub.R is shaped in such a way as to permit an accumulation of contaminants that initially occurs along peripheral portions of the filter base 130 which are distant, or relatively distant (in essentially all directions), from the front end of the helical body 150.sub.B, such that initially no pushing action on the scraper device 150 arises. In this exemplary embodiment, the pushing action on the scraper device 150 occurs essentially following a sufficient accumulation of contaminants in the collection region 130.sub.R, and such that the accumulated mass of contaminants actually reaches the lower end of the helical body 150.sub.B.

[0194] In alternative embodiments, the collection region 130.sub.R and/or the scraper device 150 are shaped in such a way that the scraper device 150 is subjected to a pushing action as soon as there are contaminants in the collection region 130.sub.R. In such embodiments, the scraper device 150 may for example be equipped with a helical body 150.sub.B extending, in the rest position, to the bottom of the collection region 130.sub.R, for example until it touches, or grazes, the bottom of the collection region 130.sub.R.

[0195] Without loss of generality, the amount of contaminants accumulated in the collection region 130.sub.R necessary to cause the translation of the scraper device 150 may be influenced by one or more of the following characteristics of the accumulated contaminants: [0196] size of the contaminant particles; [0197] shape of the contaminant particles; [0198] overall shape of the accumulated mass of contaminants; [0199] degree of compactness of the mass of accumulated contaminants; [0200] moisture absorbed by contaminants; [0201] presence of encrusted portions in the mass of accumulated contaminants.

[0202] For example, the mass of contaminants accumulated in the collection region 130.sub.R may not be able to exert a sufficient reaction for a pushing action on the scraper device 150, if such mass were not sufficiently compact. For this reason, before the mass of contaminants accumulated in the collection region 130.sub.R can be able to push the scraper device 150, it may be necessary for a greater quantity of contaminants to accumulate in the collection region 130.sub.R, and for their subsequent compaction, for example exerted by the scraper device 150, and in particular by means of the action exerted by the helical body 150.sub.B, in the action direction VA, on the mass of accumulated contaminants.

[0203] The pushing action exerted by the contaminants accumulated in the collection region 130.sub.R on the scraper device 150 can generally vary over time due to the variation in the shape of the mass of contaminants accumulated in the collection region 130.sub.R. Such variation can be caused not only by the introduction of new contaminants removed from the main filtering surface portion, but also due to the interaction between the helical body 150.sub.B and the mass of contaminants accumulated in the collection region 130.sub.R (in fact, during the rotation of the scraper device 150, a mixing of the previously accumulated contaminants might take place).

[0204] Furthermore, the degree of compactness/hardness of the mass of contaminants accumulated in the collection region 130.sub.Rand therefore the ability of the latter to exert a pushing action on the scraper device 150can be influenced by the humidity absorbed by the mass of contaminants due to the passage of the fluid of the washing appliance within the filter element 105.

[0205] In the exemplary embodiment, the filter assembly 100 comprises a pushing element associated with the scraper device 150 and configured to control the pushing action exerted on the scraper device 150 by the contaminants accumulated in the collection region 130.sub.R, in particular to contrast the pushing action of the contaminants accumulated in the collection region 130.sub.R.

[0206] In the exemplary embodiment, the pushing element comprises a spring SE.

[0207] In the exemplary embodiment, the spring SE is positioned inside the transmission mechanism 155.

[0208] In the exemplary embodiment, the spring SE is positioned at least partially inside the rear guide element 160.sub.R, coaxially with the scraper device 150, and in particular coaxially with the screw shaft 150.sub.S.

[0209] In the exemplary embodiment, the spring SE is arranged to contact the rear end of the screw shaft 150.sub.S. In the exemplary embodiment, the spring SE is arranged around a drive shaft, not shown, of the transmission mechanism 155.

[0210] In the exemplary embodiment, when the scraper device 150 is in the rest position (FIG. 1E), the pushing action exerted by the spring SE, in the action direction VA, on the scraper device 150 is such as to keep the front end-of-stroke element 160.sub.F firmly abutting the front guide element 165.sub.F. This allows to avoid, or significantly reduce, unwanted oscillations of the scraper device 150 along the rotation axis R, which would make any sensing of the position of the scraper device 150 (for example, by suitable sensing systems, discussed below) inefficient.

[0211] Therefore, in the exemplary embodiment, in order for the scraper device 150 to move from the rest position (FIG. 1E) to the shifted position (FIG. 1G), the pushing action exerted by the contaminants accumulated in the collection region 130.sub.R must be sufficiently high to overcome the counter pushing action exerted by the spring SE.

[0212] In the exemplary embodiment, the filter assembly 100 includes a fluid connection device for selectively enabling and disabling a fluid connection between the main inlet chamber portion 110.sub.M and the auxiliary inlet chamber portion 110.sub.A. For purposes of this discussion, fluid connection means the fluid connection, i.e., the ability or capacity of the fluid to pass or flow, between the main inlet chamber portion 110.sub.M and the auxiliary inlet chamber portion 110.sub.A.

[0213] In the exemplary embodiment, the fluid connection device is movable together with the scraper device 150, and it is configured to enable fluid connection when the scraper device 150 is in the shifted position, thereby allowing fluid to flow from the inlet IN to the auxiliary inlet chamber portion 110.sub.A through the main inlet chamber portion 110.sub.M and be filtered by the auxiliary filtering surface portion, and disable fluid connection when the scraper device 150 is in the rest position, thereby causing fluid separation between the main inlet chamber portion 110.sub.M and the auxiliary inlet chamber portion 110.sub.A, and allowing fluid to be filtered by the main filtering surface portion.

[0214] In the exemplary embodiment, the auxiliary inlet chamber portion 110.sub.A is configured to receive fluid to be filtered from the inlet IN only when the fluid connection is enabled (by the fluid connection device).

[0215] In the exemplary embodiment, the fluid connection device is configured to allow fluid connection in the presence of at least partial filling of the collection region 130.sub.R. This condition, as discussed above, causes the shift of the scraper device 150 and substantially establishes the impossibility of accumulating in the collection region 130.sub.R further contaminants possibly removed from the main filtering surface portion, thus allowing the unfiltered fluid present in the main inlet chamber 110.sub.M to reach the auxiliary inlet chamber portion 110.sub.A and flow to the outlet OUT through the auxiliary filtering surface portion, and through the main filtering surface portion, as long as the latter is not clogged.

[0216] In the exemplary embodiment, the shift of the scraper device 150 is indicative of a condition of at least partial filling of the collection region 130.sub.R, therefore it is possible to foresee that the enabling of the fluid connection between the main inlet chamber portion 110.sub.M and the auxiliary inlet chamber portion 110.sub.A will result, at least initially, in the filtering of the fluid through both the main filtering surface portion and the secondary filtering surface portion, for example because, at the enabling of the fluid connection, the scraper device 150 may have recently concluded a cycle of removal of contaminants from the main filtering surface portion.

[0217] The use of the auxiliary inlet chamber portion 110.sub.A allows, especially but not exclusively, in conditions of clogging of the main filtering surface portion, to reduce the fluid pressure inside the main inlet chamber portion 110.sub.M, a pressure that could otherwise compromise the seal of the filter base 130.

[0218] The use of the auxiliary inlet chamber portion 110.sub.A also allows to continue to guarantee, at least temporarily, and in particular as long as the auxiliary inlet chamber portion 110.sub.A, or the portion of the auxiliary filtering surface associated therewith, is not clogged, the filtering of the fluid received from the inlet IN even when the main inlet chamber portion 110.sub.M is clogged.

[0219] In the exemplary embodiment, the auxiliary inlet chamber portion 110.sub.A has a volume that allows the filtering of a quantity of fluid sufficient to complete a washing cycle of the washing appliance. In this way, even if the clogging of the main inlet chamber portion 110.sub.M occurs in an initial phase of a washing cycle of the washing appliance, such washing cycle can be concluded while at the same time ensuring the filtering of the fluid.

[0220] In the exemplary embodiment, the fluid connection device is configured to close the connection opening 140H when the scraper device 150 is in the rest position and open the connection opening 140H when the scraper device 150 is in the shifted position.

[0221] In the exemplary embodiment, the screw shaft 150.sub.S is movable along the rotation axis R passing through the connecting opening 140H.

[0222] In the exemplary embodiment, the fluid connection device comprises an enlargement portion 170 adapted to cause an enlargement, or, in the intended use orientation, an extension along the transverse direction Y, of the screw shaft 150.sub.S. Without loss of generality, the enlargement portion 170 may be made in a single piece with the screw shaft 150.sub.S, or the enlargement portion 170 may be a component separate from the screw shaft 150.sub.S and fixed thereto by suitable fastening means.

[0223] In the exemplary embodiment, the fluid connection device is configured to fit, at least partially, into the connection opening 140H when the scraper device 150 is in the rest position, as exemplarily illustrated in FIG. 1E.

[0224] In the exemplary embodiment, the enlargement portion 170, or, more generally, the fluid connection device, comprises a sealing element 170G for sealing the connection opening 140H when the scraper device 150 is in the rest position. By way of example, as shown, the sealing element 170G may comprise a gasket. By way of a further example, not shown, the sealing element 170G may comprise a labyrinthine structure adapted to provide a labyrinth seal.

[0225] In alternative embodiments, not shown, the fluid connection device is configured to externally cover the connection opening 140H, i.e. to plug the connection opening 140H without insertion of the fluid connection device therein, when the scraper device 150 is in the rest position.

[0226] In the exemplary embodiment, the filter assembly 100 includes a bypass apparatus 175 adapted to allow the unfiltered fluid to escape from the filter assembly 100 in conditions of clogging of the main filtering surface portion and the auxiliary filtering surface portion, or, more generally, when a reduced overall filtration efficiency of the main filtering surface portion and the auxiliary filtering surface portion causes the filtration of a quantity of fluid that is less than the quantity of fluid entering the inlet chamber 110, with consequent potential accumulation of unfiltered fluid in the inlet chamber 110 and subsequent overflow of the same.

[0227] In the exemplary embodiment, the bypass apparatus 175, or, more generally, the filter assembly 100, comprises a bypass housing 175H separated from the filter housing 115, e.g. arranged next to it along the transverse direction Y.

[0228] In the exemplary embodiment, the bypass apparatus 175, or, more generally, the filter assembly 100. comprises a bypass chamber 175.sub.C separated from the inlet chamber 110 and in fluid connection with the outlet chamber 120.

[0229] In the exemplary embodiment, the bypass chamber 175.sub.C is in selective fluid connection with the inlet chamber 110, in particular with the auxiliary inlet chamber portion 110.sub.A.

[0230] In the exemplary embodiment, the bypass apparatus 175, or, more generally, the filter assembly 100, includes a fluid communication device configured to enable fluid communication between the auxiliary inlet chamber portion 110.sub.A and the bypass chamber 175.sub.C based on a condition of the inlet chamber 110, for example, the pressure of the fluid contained in the inlet chamber 110, and in particular in the auxiliary inlet chamber portion 110.sub.A. For the purposes of this disclosure, fluid communication means the fluid connection, i.e., the ability or capacity of fluid to pass or flow, between the auxiliary inlet chamber portion 110.sub.A and the bypass chamber 175.sub.C.

[0231] In the exemplary embodiment, the fluid communication device is configured to enable fluid communication in the presence of a clogging of the auxiliary inlet chamber portion 110.sub.A, or, more generally, in the presence of an accumulation of unfiltered fluid due to, for example, a reduced overall filtration efficiency of the main filtering surface portion and the auxiliary filtering surface portion, thereby allowing unfiltered fluid to flow to the outlet OUT through the main inlet chamber portion 110.sub.M, the auxiliary inlet chamber portion 110.sub.A, and the bypass chamber 175.sub.C. This helps to avoid interruption of fluid flow by the clogged filter assembly 100, thereby preventing corresponding malfunctioning of the washing appliance. Furthermore, this helps to avoid overflow of fluid from the filter assembly 100, and possible flooding of the room in which the washing appliance is located.

[0232] In the exemplary embodiment, the fluid connection device includes a movable body 175B configured to take a closed position or an open position to disable or enable, respectively, fluid communication. In the exemplary embodiment, in the closed position (FIG. 1F), the movable body 175B closes a communication opening (not shown) formed in a partition wall 175.sub.W that separates the auxiliary inlet chamber portion 110.sub.A from the bypass chamber 175.sub.C, while in the open position (not shown) the movable body 175B opens the communication opening.

[0233] In the exemplary embodiment, the movable body 175B is positioned above the communication opening, and is movable with respect to the bypass housing 175H along the vertical direction Z.

[0234] In the exemplary embodiment, the movable body 175B takes the open position by moving upwards, freeing the communication opening, due to the pressure exerted on the movable body 175.sub.B by the fluid accumulated in the inlet chamber 110, for example, as discussed above, when the inlet chamber 110 is in a clogged or partially clogged condition.

[0235] In the exemplary embodiment, the movable body 175.sub.B takes the closed position, occluding the communication opening, when the pressure exerted on the movable body 175B by the accumulated fluid present in the inlet chamber 110 is not sufficient to overcome the gravitational force acting on the movable body 175B, that is, when the inlet chamber 110 is in a non-clogged or not particularly clogged condition.

[0236] In the exemplary embodiment, the filter assembly 100 includes a drain pump P adapted to drain fluid from the inlet chamber 110. In the exemplary embodiment, the drain pump P is connected to the main inlet chamber portion 110.sub.M, for example, to a bottom thereof, to suck up fluid, and to the outlet OUT of the filter assembly 100 (connection not shown) to evacuate the sucked fluid. Without loss of generality, the drain pump P may be operatively connected to a control unit of the washing appliance (discussed below), so as to activate the drain pump P and, therefore, to empty the inlet chamber 110, in one or more phases of the treatment cycle performed by the washing appliance, for example, at the end of the washing phase. Alternatively or in addition to what is described above, the drain pump P can be operationally connected to one or more components of the filter assembly 100, for example, to a sensing system and/or to an output system, discussed below, so as to activate the drain pump P, and, therefore, empty the inlet chamber 110, upon the occurrence of one or more operating conditions of the filter assembly 100, for example, a sensing and/or a notification of activation of the bypass device, following which the emptying of the collection region 130.sub.R, and possibly the cleaning of the filtering element 105, can no longer be postponed. Emptying the inlet chamber 110 allows the filter base 130, and possibly the filtering element 105, to be extracted without risking fluid leaks from the filter assembly 100.

[0237] In the exemplary embodiment, the filter assembly 100 includes a sensing system.

[0238] In the exemplary embodiment, the filter assembly 100 comprises a sensing device 180A configured to determine or detect the enabling or disabling of fluid connection, i.e., fluid connection between main inlet chamber portion 110.sub.M and the auxiliary inlet chamber portion 110.sub.A. The sensing device 180A is shown in FIGS. 1E and 1G by way of a schematic representation and in a general location within inlet chamber 110; the specific location of sensing device 180A may depend, for example, from the type of detection device 180A and/or the parameters sensed by it.

[0239] In the exemplary embodiment, in addition to or as an alternative to the sensing device 180A, the sensing system includes a sensing device 180B configured to determine or sense the enabling or disabling of fluid communication, i.e., fluid connection between auxiliary inlet chamber portion 110.sub.A and the bypass chamber 175.sub.C. The sensing device 180B is shown in FIG. 1F by way of a schematic representation and in a general location within the bypass chamber 175.sub.C; the specific location of the sensing device 180B may depend, for example, on the type of sensing device 180B and/or on the parameters sensed by it.

[0240] Without loss of generality, the sensing device 180A and the bypass sensing device 180B can be made as a single sensing device.

[0241] Hereinafter, any feature, aspect, advantage or variation of, or associated with or referring to, the sensing system shall be deemed to apply to both the sensing device 180A and the sensing device 180B.

[0242] In the exemplary embodiment, the sensing device 180A is a position sensing device configured to sense the position of the scraper device 150 along the rotation axis R and/or the movable body 175B along the vertical direction Z, and to generate a corresponding (analog or digital) position signal indicative of the sensed position, and, hence, of the enabling or disabling of the corresponding fluid connection.

[0243] Without loss of generality, the position sensing device may comprise one or more magnetic position sensors, one or more capacitive position sensors, one or more inductive position sensors, one or more optical position sensors, and/or one or more piezoelectric position sensors, and/or one or more devices equipped with encoders or potentiometers.

[0244] Considering, by way of example only, a magnetic position sensor, the magnetic position sensor may comprise one or more magnetic elements integral with, or movable together with, the movable component, for example, the scraper device 150 or the movable body 175B, and a fixed sensor element configured to measure the intensity of the magnetic field generated by the magnetic elements and to generate the position signal based on the measured magnetic field strength; the measured generated magnetic field strength can depend on the distance between the magnetic elements and the sensing element, and therefore on the amount of displacement of the moving component compared to its resting position.

[0245] In the exemplary embodiment, the filter assembly 100 includes an output system 185 for providing output information.

[0246] The output system 185 is shown in FIGS. 1E and 1G by way of a schematic representation and in a general position within the inlet chamber 110, the specific position of the outlet system 185 depending, for example, on the type of the output system, and/or on the type of output information provided, and/or on the manner in which the output information is made available.

[0247] In the exemplary embodiment, the output information comprises fill information relating to a fill state of the collection region 130.sub.R.

[0248] In the exemplary embodiment, the fill information is provided in response to the sensing system determining whether fluid connection is enabled, as in the case of the sensing device 180A, and/or fluid communication is enabled, as in the case of sensing device 180B.

[0249] In the exemplary embodiment, the output system 185 is configured to provide output information based on the generated position signal from the position sensing device.

[0250] Without losing generality, the output information may include one or more of: [0251] a quantitative indication of the filling of the collection region 130.sub.R, for example, the volume of contaminants accumulated in the collection region 130.sub.R, such quantitative indication being for example calculated or estimated on the basis of the extent of the shift of the scraping device 150; [0252] a qualitative indication of the filling of the collection region 130.sub.R, for example, in terms of predefined levels such as empty, half full, full, such qualitative indication being for example calculated or estimated on the basis of the extent of translation of the scraper device 150; [0253] an indication of the need to empty the collection area 130.sub.R.

[0254] Without loss of generality, the output information may be provided in the form of visual and/or acoustic indications, for example by activating optical and/or acoustic signaling elements, for example warning lights and/or beeps (not shown), and/or in the form of text messages and/or symbols displayed on a display element, for example a screen (not shown).

[0255] Without loss of generality, the output information may be provided in the form of a signal (digital or analog) to an external device, such as a smartphone (not shown), or a washing equipment control unit (discussed below) to which the filter assembly 100 is hydraulically connected or connectable.

[0256] In alternative embodiments, not shown, the output system 185 is external to the filter assembly 100. For example, the output system 185 may be integrated into the washing appliance, and be communicatively coupled to the sensing system, such as by a wired and/or wireless communications interface.

[0257] In the exemplary embodiment, the filter assembly 100 is configured to be freely positioned by the user in proximity to the washing appliance. In the exemplary embodiment, the filter assembly 100 may be positioned on the floor or on the washing appliance, possibly by means of a suitable fixing support (not shown). In alternative embodiments, not shown, the filter assembly 100 may be mounted on the wall, for example by means of a suitable mounting support (not shown).

[0258] In further embodiments, not shown, the filter assembly 100 may be an internal component of the washing appliance.

[0259] FIG. 2 schematically shows an example of a connection between a filter assembly, such as the filter assembly 100 illustrated in FIGS. 1A-1G, and a washing appliance 200, in particular a laundry or textile articles washing appliance, and more specifically a washing machine.

[0260] In the exemplary embodiment, the washing appliance 200 comprises a casing 205, substantially shaped as a parallelepiped, containing hydraulic, electrical, mechanical, electronic and electromechanical components necessary for the operation of the washing appliance 200. In FIG. 2, only the components necessary for understanding the installation of the filter assembly 100 and its use are illustrated.

[0261] In the exemplary embodiment, a door 210 provided on a front side of the casing 205 allows selective access to a rotating perforated basket 215, for example of a substantially cylindrical shape, configured to receive textile products (for example, clothes) to be treated, for example to be washed or to be washed and dried.

[0262] In the exemplary embodiment, the rotating basket 215 is housed in a washing tub 220, for example of a substantially hollow cylindrical shape, configured to receive fluids comprising water and/or water mixed with chemical treatment agents for textile products (for example, detergents, fabric softeners, dyes, stain removers, . . . ).

[0263] In the exemplary embodiment, the washing tank 220 comprises, for example in a bottom portion thereof, a sump 225 configured to collect by gravity the fluids introduced into the washing tub 220.

[0264] In the exemplary embodiment, the washing appliance 200 includes a drain system for discharging fluid collected in the sump 225 into a drain external to the washing appliance 200.

[0265] In the exemplary embodiment, such discharge system includes a discharge pump 230 in fluid connection with the sump and configured, when operated, to move fluid collected in the sump 225 to a conduit such as conduit C illustrated in FIG. 1A.

[0266] In the exemplary embodiment, the conduit C is connected to the inlet IN of filter assembly 100 to supply fluid (to be filtered) pumped through conduit C into the filtering element 105; the fluid filtered by the filter assembly 100 is then supplied, through the outlet OUT, to the conduit C to be discharged into a drain external to the washing appliance 200 (not illustrated).

[0267] In the exemplary embodiment, as mentioned above, the output information generated by the output system 185 of the filter assembly 100 may be advantageously provided (in the form of a digital or analog signal) to a control unit CU of the washing appliance 200, for example by means of a wired and/or wireless communication interface.

[0268] In alternative embodiments, not shown, the output system 185 may instead be provided in the washing appliance 200. In such embodiments, the output system 185 may be coupled to the sensing system of the filter assembly 100, for example via wired and/or wireless communication interface, to receive from it the corresponding position signal, and to the control unit CU, to provide the output information (in the form of an analog or digital signal) corresponding to the position signal.

[0269] In view of the above, the filter assembly 100 can be easily connected to any washing appliance 200 to provide it with the capability of filtering contaminants, such as, for example, microplastics, without having to carry out complex assembly operations. In fact, it is sufficient to connect the conduit C to the inlet IN of the filter assembly 100, to connect the conduit C to the outlet OUT of the filter assembly 100, and to communicatively couple, for example, by wiring or by wireless connection, the control unit CU with the sensing system (if present) of the filter assembly 100 and/or with the output system 185 (if present) of the filter assembly 100.

[0270] In further embodiments (not shown), the output system 185 may be part of the control unit CU of the washing appliance 200. In these embodiments, the control unit CU may be coupled to the sensing system of the filter assembly 100, for example by wired and/or wireless communication interface, to receive the position signal.

[0271] In the exemplary embodiment illustrated in FIG. 2, the filter assembly 100 is connected in series to a drain system of the washing appliance 200 to filter the fluid discharged therefrom. In alternative embodiments (not shown), the filter assembly 100 may (additionally) be connected to a fluid recirculation system of the washing appliance 200 configured to recirculate the fluid collected in the sump 225 in the washing apparatus 200.

[0272] While in the exemplary embodiment illustrated in FIG. 2 the filter assembly 100 is shown externally connected to the washing appliance 200, similar considerations apply in the case where the filter assembly 100 is internally connected thereto, in particular in the case where the filter assembly 100 is installed to filter (at least) the fluid of a fluid recirculation system of the washing appliance 200.

[0273] Of course, to meet local and specific needs, one skilled in the art may make numerous logical and/or physical modifications and alterations to the invention described above. More specifically, while the present invention has been described with a certain degree of particularity with reference to preferred embodiments thereof, it is to be understood that various omissions, substitutions, and modifications in form and detail as well as other embodiments are possible. In particular, various embodiments of the invention may also be practiced without the specific details set forth in the foregoing description to provide a more thorough understanding thereof; conversely, known features may have been omitted or simplified so as not to burden the description with unnecessary detail. Furthermore, it is expressly intended that specific elements and/or method steps described in connection with any disclosed embodiment of the invention may be incorporated into any other embodiment.