RENTABLE DRYING DEVICE

Abstract

A drying device may comprise: a housing frame; a shared exhaust manifold positioned within the housing frame; and a plurality of dryer units positionable within the housing frame, the plurality of drying units being configured to operatively couple individually to the shared exhaust manifold, wherein an airflow pathway is formed between an individual dryer unit and the shared exhaust manifold when the individual dryer unit is operatively coupled to the shared exhaust manifold. The drying device may further comprise an airflow separator forming an interior chamber, the airflow separator comprising a wall positioned in the internal chamber for dividing the internal chamber into an intake compartment and an exhaust compartment.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application claims the benefit of United States Provisional Application No. 62/666,498 filed May 3, 2018, the contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.

BACKGROUND

Activities such as winter sports (e.g., skiing, snowboarding, etc.) require that a participant wear specialized or situational clothing for extended periods of time, the clothing potentially collecting moisture and becoming wet. Additionally, during the activities, participants typically do not wish to carry items such as cash, keys, wallets, purses, etc. and instead choose to store the items in a locker while only keeping essential items such as, for example, a phone and/or a debit or credit card. However, these factors compound to create an issue when the participant wishes to take a break from the activity indoors (e.g., in a ski lodge, cafeteria, etc.). Participants may not only find themselves uncomfortably damp with no means to remedy the situation, but they may then encounter a lack of convenient methods for which to pay for any discovered, purchasable drying means that do not require the participant to backtrack to their locker. While cash-operated dryers exist, they are not typically located in areas other than designated laundry facilities or rooms designed to accommodate the appliance's bulky size. Therefore, there exists a need for a convenient and compact drying device that may be easily located and operated to quickly dry items.

BRIEF SUMMARY

The following presents a simplified summary of one or more embodiments of the invention in order to provide a basic understanding of such embodiments. This summary is not an extensive overview of all contemplated embodiments, and is intended to neither identify key or critical elements of all embodiments, nor delineate the scope of any or all embodiments. Its sole purpose is to present some concepts of one or more embodiments in a simplified form as a prelude to the more detailed description that is presented later.

A drying device is provided in one embodiment, the drying device comprising: a housing frame; a shared exhaust manifold positioned within the housing frame; and a plurality of dryer units positionable within the housing frame, the plurality of drying units being configured to operatively couple individually to the shared exhaust manifold, wherein an airflow pathway is formed between an individual dryer unit and the shared exhaust manifold when the individual dryer unit is operatively coupled to the shared exhaust manifold.

In one particular embodiment, the individual dryer unit is configured to be removable from or repositionable within the housing frame. In another particular embodiment, the individual dryer unit is configured to decouple from the shared exhaust manifold when the individual dryer unit is removed from the housing frame. In yet another particular embodiment, the individual dryer unit is configured to block the airflow pathway while the individual dryer unit is positioned within the housing frame. In yet another particular embodiment, the plurality of dryer units are vertically positionable within the housing frame adjacent the shared exhaust manifold.

In yet another particular embodiment, the individual dryer unit comprises an airflow separator forming an interior chamber divided into an intake compartment and an exhaust compartment, wherein the exhaust compartment is configured to form the airflow pathway with the shared exhaust manifold when operatively coupled to the shared exhaust manifold. In yet another particular embodiment, the drying device further comprises a flap configured to block the airflow pathway from the individual dryer unit to the exhaust manifold.

In yet another particular embodiment, the drying device further comprises a terminal positioned within the housing frame, the terminal being configured for communicating with and controlling operation of the plurality of dryer units. In yet another particular embodiment, the terminal is configured to be in network communication with at least one of a user device and a central server, wherein the terminal is configured to control the operation of the plurality of dryer units through the network communication with the at least one of the user device and the central server.

A modular drying device is also provided, the modular drying device comprising: a housing frame; and a dryer unit positionable within the housing frame, wherein the dryer unit is configured to be removable from or repositionable within the housing frame. In a particular embodiment, the modular drying device further comprises an exhaust manifold positioned within the housing frame, wherein the dryer unit is configured to operatively couple to the exhaust manifold when the dryer unit is positioned within the housing frame. In another particular embodiment, the modular drying device further comprising a flap configured to block an airflow from the dryer unit to the exhaust manifold. In yet another particular embodiment, wherein the flap is configured to automatically block the airflow from the dryer unit to the exhaust manifold when the dryer unit is removed from the housing frame.

In yet another particular embodiment, the dryer unit is a first dryer unit having a first cylindrical container, wherein the modular drying device further comprises a second dryer unit having a second cylindrical container, and wherein a diameter of the first cylindrical container is different than a diameter of the second cylindrical container.

A dryer unit is also provided herein, the dryer unit comprising: a container; a motor coupled to the container and configured for rotating the container about an axis; an airflow separator forming an interior chamber, the airflow separator comprising a wall positioned in the internal chamber for dividing the internal chamber into an intake compartment and an exhaust compartment; and a heating element configured to heat an airflow provided to the container from the airflow separator.

In a particular embodiment, the wall of the airflow separator is aerodynamically curved to direct the airflow through the airflow separator. In another particular embodiment, the wall creates a seal between the intake compartment and the exhaust compartment within the internal chamber.

In yet another particular embodiment, the container is rotatably mounted to and horizontally suspended from the airflow separator, wherein the airflow separator at least partially supports the container. In yet another particular embodiment, the airflow separator is configured to be operatively coupled to an exhaust manifold, wherein an exhaust airflow is provided to the exhaust manifold through the airflow separator when the airflow separator is operatively coupled to the exhaust manifold. In yet another particular embodiment, at least one of the airflow separator and the exhaust manifold further comprises a flap configured to block the exhaust airflow from the dryer unit to the exhaust manifold.

The features, functions, and advantages that have been discussed may be achieved independently in various embodiments of the present invention or may be combined with yet other embodiments, further details of which can be seen with reference to the following description and drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Having thus described embodiments of the invention in general terms, reference will now be made to the accompanying drawings, wherein:

FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of a drying device, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 2 illustrates a perspective view of the drying device with a portion of the housing removed, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 3 illustrates a front view of a dryer unit with the door and a portion of the housing removed, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 4 illustrates a rear view of the drying device, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 5 illustrates a perspective view of the drying device with a portion of the housing removed, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 6 illustrates a drying device network environment, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 7 schematically depicts a user device, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 8 schematically depicts a drying device kiosk, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 9 schematically depicts a central server system, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 10 illustrates a graphical representation of a portion of a user application user interface 1000, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 11 illustrates a graphical representation of a portion of a user application user interface 1100, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention; and

FIG. 12 provides a high level process flow for drying device operation, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Embodiments of the present invention now may be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which some, but not all, embodiments of the invention are shown. Indeed, the invention may be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein; rather, these embodiments are provided so that this disclosure may satisfy applicable legal requirements. Like numbers refer to like elements throughout.

Embodiments of the invention are directed to a freestanding drying device having a plurality of rentable dryer compartments for drying items such as small articles of clothing. The drying device provides a unique, modular structure for configuring or repositioning individual, self-contained dryer units within a frame of a provided housing. The individual dryer units include a unique airflow separator structure that simultaneously provides both and air intake and air exhaust pathways within a singular structure. Furthermore, the plurality of dryer units share a centrally-located, exhaust manifold. These structural features and arrangement of the components of the drying device allow for both efficient heat insulation and a reduced appliance footprint. Additionally, in one embodiment, the modular dryer units may be selectively placed out-of-service and removed from interaction with the drying device system as a whole without interfering with continued operation of the remaining dryer units.

It should be understood that an “item,” as used herein, refers to any article of clothing, garment, textile product or similarly dryable object which may be benefit from being dried by the drying device as discussed herein. Non-limiting examples of items include gloves, mittens, scarves, socks, facemasks, balaclavas, hats, stockings, undergarments, shirts, pants, handkerchiefs, bandanas, buffs, towels or the like.

It should also be understood that “operatively coupled,” as used herein, means that the components may be formed integrally with each other, or may be formed separately and coupled together. Furthermore, “operatively coupled” means that the components may be formed directly to each other, or to each other with one or more components located between the components that are operatively coupled together. Furthermore, “operatively coupled” may mean that the components are detachable from each other, or that they are permanently coupled together. Furthermore, operatively coupled components may mean that the components retain at least some freedom of movement in one or more directions or may be rotated about an axis (i.e., rotationally coupled, pivotally coupled). Furthermore, “operatively coupled” may mean that components may be electronically connected and/or in fluid communication with one another.

A “user” as used herein may refer to any entity or individual associated with the rentable drying device. In some embodiments, the user may be an operator of a user application and/or drying device as described herein. In some embodiments, the user is a customer providing payment in exchange for the services provided by the invention. In some embodiments, a user may refer an individual drying one or more items in the drying device (e.g., a skier, snowboarder, swimmer, gym member, sport participant, etc.). In some embodiments, a user may refer to an entity or individual that maintains or repairs the rentable drying device. In some embodiments, identities or identifying information of the user or an individual may include online handles, usernames, aliases, family names, maiden names, nicknames, predefined identifiers, alpha numeric codes or the like.

Furthermore, as used herein the term “user device” may refer to any device that employs a processor and memory and can perform computing functions, such as a personal computer or a mobile device, wherein a mobile device is any mobile communication device, such as a cellular telecommunications device (i.e., a cell phone or mobile phone), personal digital assistant (PDA), a mobile Internet accessing device, or other mobile device. Other types of mobile devices may include portable digital assistants (PDAs), pagers, wearable devices, mobile televisions, gaming devices, laptop computers, cameras, video recorders, audio/video player, radio, global positioning system (GPS) devices, or any combination of the aforementioned.

Typically, “Authentication information” or “Authentication credentials” comprise any information that can be used to identify, authenticate and/or authorize a user. For example, a system may prompt a user to enter authentication information such as a username, a password, a user profile, a personal identification number (PIN), a passcode, device information (e.g., serial number, media access control (MAC) address, internet protocol (IP) address), biometric information (e.g., voice authentication, a fingerprint, heart rate, predetermined physical gestures and/or a retina scan), an answer to a security question, and/or a unique intrinsic user activity, such as making a predefined motion with a user device. As a non-limiting example, this authentication information may be used to authenticate the identity of the user (e.g., determine that the authentication information is associated with an account) and, based on successful validation of the credentials, further determine that the user has authority to perform a certain user activity, (e.g., access an account or system).

Also, it will be understood that, where possible, any of the advantages, features, functions, devices, and/or operational aspects of any of the embodiments of the present invention described and/or contemplated herein may be included in any of the other embodiments of the present invention described and/or contemplated herein, and/or vice versa. In addition, where possible, any terms expressed in the singular form herein are meant to also include the plural form and/or vice versa, unless explicitly stated otherwise. Accordingly, the terms “a” and/or “an” shall mean “one or more.”

Drying Device Construction

FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of a drying device 100, in accordance with one embodiment of the invention. As depicted in FIG. 1, the drying device 100 includes a main body or housing frame 102 that collects, supports, and houses one or more components of the drying device 100 described herein. The housing frame 102 is supported on a surface by one or more supporting members 104, wherein a bottom of the housing frame 102 is raised off of the surface. As depicted in the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 1, the supporting members 104 may include one or more feet and/or legs for stabilizing the housing frame 102 of the drying device 100 on the surface. The height of the support members 104 may be individually adjustable for stabilizing the drying device 100 on even surfaces. In an alternative embodiment, the bottom of the housing frame 102 is placed directly on the surface without supporting members 104.

In a particular, non-limiting embodiment of the invention, the drying device 100 and housing frame 102 has an overall height, width, and depth of approximately 80 inches×50 inches×20 inches, respectively. In alternative embodiments, the height, width, and depth of the drying device 100 may be other values different than the previously discussed, non-limiting embodiment.

As illustrated in FIG. 1, a plurality of dryer units 106 are operatively coupled to and positioned within the housing frame 102 to assemble a drying device 100 that collectively provides an array of dryer units 106. Each of the plurality of dryer units 106 is positioned at least partially within the housing frame 102 of the drying device 100. In the non-limiting, illustrated embodiment, two columns of five dryer units 106 are stacked vertically within the housing frame 102 of the drying device 100. In other embodiments, the number, configuration, and/or orientation of the dryer units 106 may be different. For example, the drying device 100 may support a greater number of dryer units 106, additional columns of stacked dryer units 106 or alternative configurations of the dryer units 106 (e.g., one or more horizontal rows). The stacked configuration effectively minimizes a total footprint of the drying device 100 allowing for efficient use of space by a facility housing the device 100.

In the illustrated embodiment, the dryer units 106 are positioned within the housing frame 102 so as to be accessible from the front of the drying device 100. Each of the dryer units 106 includes a door 108 to provide access to an interior of each dryer unit 106. Each door 108 further comprises a handle 110 configured for user interaction with the door 108 (i.e., pulling open or pressing closed) and a transparent viewing window 112 allowing a user to view the interior of the dryer unit 106 while the door 108 is closed.

Each of the plurality of dryer units 106 is a separate, modular device, wherein the drying device 100 housing the plurality of dryer units 106 is configured to provide a series of compartmentalized containers (i.e., the dryer units) that may be operated independently from one another. As described herein in the illustrated embodiments, each of the dryer units 106 comprises a container 210, an airflow separator 202, an intake pathway 204, a motorized fan 206, a heating element 208, a belt 212, support rollers 302, a motor 304, and a locking mechanism 306. In some embodiments, the individual dryer units 106 are stackable and configurable so that a user may tailor a specific arrangement of dryer units 106 within the housing frame 102 to construct a customized drying device 100 that suits the user's needs (e.g., space requirements, unit number requirements (i.e., demand)). In some embodiments, individual dryer units 106 or modules may be removed from the housing frame 102 as a single unit without disrupting operation of the drying device 100 as a whole or other dryer units 106. For example, in one embodiment, an individual dryer unit 106 is slid out of the housing frame 102 on tracks from an open face of the drying device 100 (e.g., the front face or the rear face) and removed from the housing frame 102.

The drying device 100 further includes a kiosk terminal 114 operatively coupled to the housing 102 and the plurality of dryer units 106. The kiosk terminal 114 is accessible from the front of the drying device 100 and is configured for receiving and transmitting instructions for operating or controlling the one or more components of the drying device 100 such as the plurality of dryer units 106. The kiosk terminal 114 is a point-of-sale device configured to allow a user to purchase temporary use of (i.e., rent) the plurality of dryer units 106. The kiosk terminal 114 further includes a user interface 116 (e.g., a touchscreen) and a card reader 118 (e.g., a credit/debit card reader). The kiosk terminal 114 and the drying device 100 as a whole are powered by an alternating current (AC) power supply (e.g., connection to a wall outlet). In another embodiment, the drying device 100 may be alternatively or additionally powered through a direct current (DC) power supply by way of an internal battery that functions as an auxiliary or emergency power supply should a primary power supply fail (e.g., power outage).

In one embodiment, the kiosk terminal 114 is accessible from the rear of the drying device 100, wherein components of the drying device 100 and the kiosk terminal 114 may be accessed and serviced without interrupting use of the drying device 100. In one embodiment, the kiosk terminal is accessible via a door or panel operatively coupled (e.g. with a hinge) to the drying device 100.

FIG. 2 illustrates a perspective view of the drying device 100 with a portion of the housing frame 102 removed, while FIG. 3 illustrates a front view of a dryer unit 106 with the door 108 and a portion of the housing frame 102 removed, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention. As shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, the dryer unit 106 includes an airflow separator 202 (further discussed with respect to FIGS. 4 and 5) operatively coupled to the housing frame 102 adjacent a rear of the housing frame 102 and is configured for air intake from a surrounding environment. An intake pathway 204 is operatively coupled to the airflow separator 202 and provides a tubular channel that extends from the airflow separator 202 at the rear of the housing frame 102 around to a position adjacent a front of the housing frame 102. A motorized fan 206 is operatively coupled and positioned within the channel and is configured to draw air through an intake opening 408 of the intake compartment 402 (as illustrated in FIG. 4), into the airflow separator 202, and through the channel created by the intake pathway 204, the intake opening 408 comprising one or more holes, grating, venting or the like to allow for an inflow of air into the intake compartment 402. The intake pathway 204 is operatively coupled to the interior of the container 210 to allow for a delivery of the airflow from the pathway 204. In some embodiments, air is delivered from the intake pathway 204 to the interior of the container 210 through a channel (not shown) separate from or integral to the door 108 or other front surface of the container 210. In another embodiment, air may be delivered to the container 210 via a series of circumferential holes positioned around the exterior perimeter of the container 210. In some embodiments, the intake pathway may further comprise a screen or filter positioned upstream of the motorized fan 206 configured for collecting particulate or debris (e.g., lint) and preventing it from entering the motorized fan 206 and the dryer unit 106.

The intake pathway 204 further includes a heating element 208. As air is drawn though the channel created by the intake pathway 204 and past the heating element 208, the air is heated by the heating element 208. In some embodiments, the heating element 208 is an electric or gas (e.g., natural gas) powered heater. In a specific embodiment, the heating element 208 is a nichrome wire that is positioned around at least a portion of the circumference of the intake pathway 204. In some embodiments, control of the heating element 208 is preset, wherein the heating element 208 operates at a predetermined temperature and/or for a predetermined amount of time. In other embodiments, the heating element 208 is adjustable, wherein an output temperature, run-time, power usage or the like may be controlled by the user and/or maintenance personnel before or during operation of a dryer unit 106. For example, a user may set a dryer unit 106 to run at a low heat setting for ten minutes and then adjust the heat setting to high during the originally set time period.

The dryer unit 106 further includes a cylindrical container 210 or canister that receives the heated air from the intake pathway 204. The container 210 includes an interior cavity for receiving one or more items for drying within the dryer unit 106. The container 210 is positioned horizontally so that the opening to the interior cavity is parallel with the front of the drying device 100 to allow the user to easily access items placed in the container 210 from the front of the drying device 100. In a specific embodiment of the invention, the interior cavity of the cylindrical container 210 has a diameter of 8 inches. In an alternative embodiment, the interior cavity of the container 210 has a diameter that is greater than 8 inches. In yet another alternative embodiment, the interior cavity of the container 210 has a diameter that is less than 8 inches. In some embodiments, the drying device 100 may have a plurality of dryer units 106 with containers 210 of various diameters, wherein a user of the drying device 100 may select a particular dryer unit 106 depending on the requirements of the user (i.e., number or size of items to dry).

The interior cavity of the container 210 and/or the dryer unit 106 as a whole are secured through the releasable coupling of a door 108 (as illustrated in FIG. 1) and a locking mechanism 306. The door 108 of each dryer unit 106 is configured to pivot open on the front face of the drying device 100 to reveal at least the interior cavity of the container 210 thereby allowing for items to be placed within the container 210 for drying. A non-pivoting side of the door 108 latches to the locking mechanism 306 of the dryer unit 106 to prevent unwanted access to the contents of the dryer unit 106 by other users either unintentionally or intentionally (i.e., theft). The locking mechanism 306 is communication with the kiosk 114 and/or a central server controlling operation of the drying device 100 over a network to allow for operation of the locking mechanism 306. In some embodiments, the locking mechanism 306 includes an interlocking mechanism to meet National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) and National Electrical Code (NEC) security codes and standards and prevent unqualified access to the contents of locked containers 210 in the event of a triggered disconnect.

The container 210 is rotatably coupled to and at least partially supported by the airflow separator 202, wherein the container 210 is rotatable about a central, horizontal axis of the cylindrical canister during a drying process. As illustrated in FIG. 3, the container 210 is further supported by a plurality of support rollers 302 operatively coupled to a base of the dryer unit 106. The support rollers 302 at least partially support the weight of the container 210 while still allowing for rotation of the container 210 about its central axis. In a particular embodiment, the rollers 302 are constructed from a material having a durometer allowing for at least partial noise reduction during operation of the dryer unit 106.

The exterior of the container 210 is at least partially encircled by a belt 212 operatively coupled to a motor 304. The belt 212 is in frictional contact with the container 210 so that when moved by the motor 304, the belt 212 causes the container 210 to rotate about its central axis. In some embodiments, the container 210 is configured to rotate at varying speeds and in varying directions (i.e., clockwise or counter-clockwise). In some embodiments, a user of the dryer unit 106 may select a rotational speed and/or direction, while in other embodiments, rotational speed and/or direction are predetermined.

Heated air enters the interior cavity of the container 210 and passes over and through items placed in the container 210 to be dried. As previously discussed, in some embodiments, air may be delivered from the intake pathway 204 to the interior of the container 210 through a channel (not shown) separate from or integral to the door 108 or other front surface of the container 210. In another embodiment, air may be delivered to the container 210 via a plurality of circumferential inlets or holes positioned around the exterior perimeter of the container 210. The container 210 further includes an exhaust outlet 308 positioned within the interior cavity formed by the container 210. In the illustrated embodiment, the exhaust outlet 308 comprises a plurality of exhaust outlets or holes positioned on a back wall of the interior cavity of the container 210. The heated air is exhausted through the exhaust outlets 308 back into a portion of the airflow separator 202.

As illustrated by the rear views of the drying device 100 in FIGS. 4 and 5, the drying device 100 further includes a central exhaust manifold 214 operatively coupled to the housing frame 102. The central exhaust manifold 214 extends the height of the housing frame 102 in order to operatively couple to each of the plurality of dryer units 106. The central exhaust manifold 214 extends from the top of the housing frame 102 to exhaust heated air out and away from the frame 102 (e.g., through additional ducting or venting means). In another embodiment, air may be exhausted directly from the central exhaust manifold 214 to a surrounding environment without additional ducting. In this way, the central exhaust manifold 214 provides a shared exhaust pathway from the plurality of dryer units 106 of the drying device 100 to the environment. By utilizing the central exhaust manifold 214 as opposed to multiple, independent exhaust duct pathways for each individual dryer unit 106, a footprint of the drying device 100 may be reduced. The shared space of the central exhaust manifold 214 further reduces a number of exhaust duct pathways making the device easier to install, maintain, and clean than traditional drying systems. Additionally, the exhaust manifold 214 of the present invention may be more efficiently insulated, as less insulation material is required to protect the device (e.g., sensitive internal computing components) and the surrounding environment from excess heat generated by a drying process.

As previously discussed, each dryer unit 106 includes an airflow separator 202 operatively coupled to the dryer unit 106 adjacent a rear of the housing frame 102. In the illustrated embodiment, the airflow separator 202 has a partially circular-shaped outer wall portion 412 that at least partially conforms to a circular shape of an adjacent container 210. The partially circular-shaped outer wall portion 412 may promote efficient aerodynamic pathing of an airflow throughout the airflow separator 202. The outer wall of the airflow separator 202 further includes a flat surface 414 that rests on a base of the dyer unit 106 within the housing 102 to support the airflow separator 202 within the frame. It should be understood that illustrated embodiment is non-limiting and that the airflow separator 202 may be shaped in alternative configurations.

A wall 406 extends diagonally up through an internal chamber of the airflow separator 202 to divide the internal chamber of the airflow separator 202 into an intake compartment 402 and an exhaust compartment 404. The wall 406 may create a seal within the airflow separator 202 between the intake compartment 402 and the exhaust compartment 404 to substantially separate the inflow and outflow of air of the dryer unit 106 from mixing. The wall 406 may comprise a curved portion 416 to promote efficient directional airflow through the airflow separator 202 and the dryer unit 106 as whole. In other embodiments, the wall 406 may be shaped or oriented in other configurations. For example, the wall 406 may extend from the flat surface 414 in a vertical direction perpendicular to the flat surface 414 of the airflow separator 202.

The intake compartment 402 is operatively coupled to the intake pathway 204 to provide air to the container 210. The exhaust compartment 404 includes an exhaust port 502 for operatively coupling the exhaust compartment 404 to the central exhaust manifold 214. In this way, the present invention provides a unique structure for simultaneous air intake from a surrounding environment and air exhaust to the central manifold 214. Further, by combining these structural features into a single element, the required footprint of the overall drying device 100 may be reduced.

In one embodiment, the exhaust port 502 of the airflow separator 202 further includes a maintenance flap 504 operatively coupled adjacent an opening of the exhaust port 502. The maintenance flap 504 is configured to release from an open position and pivot to a closed position (shown) to block an airflow path of the exhaust port 502 to the central exhaust manifold 214. By blocking the airflow path, a flow of air between the airflow separator 202 and the central exhaust manifold 214 may be selectively closed for individual dryer units 106. In this way, individual dryer units 106 may be brought out-of-service (i.e., out-of-order) for maintenance or repair without interrupting operation of the remaining dryer units 106 or without needing to bring the entirety of the drying device 100 out-of-service. The maintenance flap 504 may be manually controlled, spring-loaded, electronically controlled or the like and configured to automatically or manually close when a dryer unit 106 is brought out-of-service and/or removed. The exhaust compartment 402 of the airflow separator 202 may further include an exhaust opening 410 for providing an alternative exhaust pathway from the airflow separator 202 if the maintenance flap 504 is closed (e.g., during maintenance).

In a specific embodiment, the maintenance flap 504 may be configured to automatically close when a modular dryer unit 106 is removed from the housing frame 102 or otherwise brought out-of-service for maintenance or repair. For example, individual containers 210, airflow separators 202, or other components may be removed from the frame 102 for repair or maintenance which may trigger closing of the maintenance flap 504.

As illustrated in FIG. 5, the components and structural features of individual dryer units 106 may be mirrored across a plane intersecting the center of and vertically parallel to the central exhaust manifold 214 and perpendicular to the front of the drying device 100 thereby allowing for each of the dryer units 106 positioned within the housing frame 102 on either side of the central exhaust manifold 214 to be operatively coupled to the central exhaust manifold 214 via exhaust ports 502.

It should be understood that while FIGS. 4 and 5 depict the drying device 100 having an open rear face, wherein the airflow separators 202 and the central exhaust manifold 214 are visible, in some embodiments, the drying device 100 may further comprise a rear wall at least partially covering the rear face of the drying device 100.

Drying Device Network Environment and Operation

FIG. 6 illustrates a drying device network environment 600, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention. The environment 600 comprises a user device 620 associated with a user 604, one or more drying device kiosks 640, and a centralized server system 660. As used herein, a “processing device,” such as the processing devices 624, 644, and 664 (described with respect to FIGS. 7-9, respectively), generally refers to a device or combination of devices having circuitry used for implementing the communication and/or logic functions of a particular system. For example, a processing device may include a digital signal processor device, a microprocessor device, and various analog-to-digital converters, digital-to-analog converters, and other support circuits and/or combinations of the foregoing. Control and signal processing functions of the system are allocated between these processing devices according to their respective capabilities. The processing device may further include functionality to operate one or more software programs based on computer-executable program code thereof, which may be stored in a memory. As the phrase is used herein, a processing device may be “configured to” perform a certain function in a variety of ways, including, for example, by having one or more general-purpose circuits perform the function by executing particular computer-executable program code embodied in computer-readable medium, and/or by having one or more application-specific circuits perform the function.

As used herein, a “user interface,” such as the user interfaces 626, 646, and 666 (described with respect to FIGS. 7-9, respectively), generally includes a plurality of interface devices and/or software that allow a customer to input commands and data to direct the processing device to execute instructions. For example, a user interface may include a graphical user interface (GUI) or an interface to input computer-executable instructions that direct the processing device to carry out specific functions. The user interface employs certain input and output devices to input data received from a user or output data to a user. These input and output devices may include a display, mouse, keyboard, button, touchpad, touch screen, microphone, speaker, LED, card-reader (e.g., a credit/debit card), cash/coin slot, light, joystick, switch, buzzer, bell, and/or other customer input/output device for communicating with one or more customers.

As used herein, a “memory device,” such as memory devices 628, 648, and 668 (described with respect to FIGS. 7-9, respectively), generally refers to a device or combination of devices that store one or more forms of computer-readable media for storing data and/or computer-executable program code/instructions. Computer-readable media is defined in greater detail below. For example, in one embodiment, the memory device includes any computer memory that provides an actual or virtual space to temporarily or permanently store data and/or commands provided to the processing device when it carries out its functions described herein.

As used herein, a “communication interface,” such as communication interfaces 622, 642, and 662 (described with respect to FIGS. 7-9, respectively), generally includes a modem, server, transceiver, and/or other device for communicating with other devices on a network, and/or a user interface for communicating with one or more customers. A communication interface may have one or more communication devices configured to communicate with one or more other devices on a network, such as a user device, computer system, server system, cloud server system, and/or the like. The processing device is configured to use the network communication interface to transmit and/or receive data and/or commands to and/or from the other devices connected to the network.

The systems and devices communicate with one another over the network 602 via one or more communication channels and perform one or more of the various steps and/or methods according to embodiments of the disclosure discussed herein. The network 602 and the one or more communication channels may include a local area network (LAN), a wide area network (WAN), and/or a global area network (GAN). The network 602 may provide for wireline, wireless, or a combination of wireline and wireless communication between devices in the network. In one embodiment, the network 602 includes the Internet. In some embodiments, the network 602 includes wireless communication, such as near field communication. The one or more communication channels allow the various systems of the environment to transmit and receive data, control signals, and commands to and from one another.

Referring now to FIG. 7, which schematically depicts a user device, in accordance with one embodiment of the invention, the user device 620 includes a communication interface 622 communicably coupled with a processing device 624, which is also communicably coupled with a memory device 628. In some embodiments, the communication interface 622 may also comprise a GPS transceiver capable of determining a geographic location associated with the user device 620. The processing device 624 is configured to control the communication interface 622 such that the user device 620 communicates across the network 602 with one or more other systems. The processing device 624 is also configured to access the memory device 628 in order to read the computer readable instructions 632, which in some embodiments includes a user application 634. The user application 634 allows for communication of the user device 620 with the other systems and devices within the environment 600 such as the central server system 660. The user application 634 allows the user 604 to receive information transmitted as well as input information requested by the other systems and communicate with entities and third parties within the system environment 600. The memory device 628 also includes a data storage or repository 630 or similar storage device for storing pieces of data (e.g., user identifying authentication information or credentials) that can be accessed by the processing device 624.

Referring now to FIG. 8, which schematically depicts a drying device kiosk, in accordance with one embodiment of the invention, the drying device kiosk 640 includes a communication interface 642 communicably coupled with a processing device 644, which is also communicably coupled with a memory device 648. The processing device 644 is configured to control the communication interface 642 such that the drying device kiosk 640 communicates across the network 602 with one or more other systems. The processing device 644 is also configured to access the memory device 648 in order to read the computer readable instructions 654, which in some embodiments includes a drying device application 656. The drying device application 656, in some embodiments, allows for control of one or more operations of a plurality of dryer units 106 of a drying device 100 operatively coupled to the drying device kiosk 640. The drying device application 656 may also allow for communication with the other systems and devices within the environment 100 such as the central server system 660. For example, the drying device kiosk 640 may communicate over a network with one or more other systems to receive updates (e.g., firmware updates). The memory device 648 also includes a data storage or repository 650 or similar storage device for storing pieces of data that can be accessed by the processing device 644. In some embodiments, the drying device kiosk 640 may be a point-of-sale device used for receiving instructions and controlling operation of one or more operatively coupled dryer units 106. The drying device kiosk 640 further includes a user interface 646 for direct interaction with a user at the drying device kiosk 640 either alone or in combination with the user device 620. In one embodiment, the user interface 646 further includes a display 657 (e.g., a touchscreen display), a keypad 658, and a card reader 659. In one embodiment, the drying device kiosk 640 is the kiosk terminal 114 of FIG. 1.

Referring now to FIG. 9, which schematically depicts a central server system, in accordance with one embodiment of the invention, the central server system 660 includes a processing device 664 operatively coupled to a communication interface 662 and a memory device 668. The processing device 664 is configured to control the communication interface 662 such that the central server system 660 communicates across the network 602 with one or more other systems. The processing device 664 is also configured to access the memory device 668 in order to read the computer readable instructions 674, which in some embodiments include a central server application 676. The central server application 676, in some embodiments, allows for authentication of a user requesting access to the drying device 100 and controls operation of the drying device 100. The memory device 668 also includes a data storage or repository 670 or similar storage device for storing pieces of data that can be accessed by the processing device 664. In some embodiments, the data storage 670 includes user profile information 672 associated with one or more users of the drying devices 100.

The user application 634, the drying device application 656, and the central server application 676 are configured for instructing the processing devices on their respective systems to perform various steps of the methods discussed herein, and/or other steps and/or similar steps. In various embodiments, one or more of the various applications discussed are included in the computer readable instructions stored in a memory device of one or more systems or devices other than their respective systems and/or devices. For example, in some embodiments, the drying device application 656 may be stored and configured for being accessed by a processing device of the central server system 660 connected to the network 602. In various embodiments, the user application 634, the drying device application 656, and the central server application 676 are stored and executed by different systems/devices. In some embodiments, the discussed applications may be similar and may be configured to communicate with one another. In some embodiments, the various applications may be considered to be working together as a singular application despite being stored and executed on different systems.

In various embodiments, one of the systems discussed above, such as the central server system 660 or the drying device kiosk 640, is more than one system and the various components of the system are not collocated, and in various embodiments, there are multiple components performing the functions indicated herein as a single device. For example, in one embodiment, multiple processing devices perform the functions of the processing device 664 of the central server system 660 described herein. In some embodiments, the one or more systems and/or applications described herein may communicate with one another bi-directionally, wherein commands, signals, messages or the like may be transmitted and received between two or more of the systems and/or applications.

In various embodiments, the user device 620, the drying device kiosk 640, and/or the central server system 660 may perform all or part of one or more method or process steps discussed herein and/or other method steps in association with the method steps discussed herein. Furthermore, some or all the systems/devices discussed herein, in association with other systems or without association with other systems, in association with steps being performed manually or without steps being performed manually, may perform one or more of the steps of one or more of the method discussed herein, or other methods, processes or steps discussed herein or not discussed herein.

The system is configured to cause the user device(s) 620 to present one or more interfaces associated with operation of one or more drying devices 100 and associated functions. In the illustrated embodiments, a user interface may comprise one or more menus or interactable objects (e.g., buttons, text entry boxes, checkboxes, etc.) to enable the user to perform one or more functions or interact with the system. FIG. 10 illustrates a graphical representation of a portion of a user application user interface 1000, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention. In some embodiments, upon launching the application, a user interface 1000 is presented to the user upon initially logging into the system and/or upon initial user authentication/credential validation. A currently logged-in user profile may be indicated within the user interface during operation. The user interface further provides a logout button 1002 which allows the user to sign out and exit the application.

In some embodiments, the application provides location information 1004 of the user device. Location information may be input manually by the user or determined automatically (e.g., via GPS, etc.). In some embodiments, the application provides the option to select or input an alternative location, wherein a user may select or input a location other than the user's current location. In this way, the user may select devices located at remote locations. For example, a user may select devices remotely on behalf of another user located at the remote location. In another example, the user may preemptively select devices at a remote location prior to the user arriving at the remote location.

In some embodiments, the application provides device information 1006 associated with one or more locations. The application may retrieve and populate the device information 1006 field in response to selection or determination of a location of the user device 620 and/or user. The devices presented by the application may be located at or nearby the one or more locations. In some embodiments, the system and/or application may automatically determine one or more devices located nearby or within a predetermined distance from a designated location. The application may further provide statuses associated with each of the devices presented within the application. For example, the application may present availability status of each device (e.g., available for use, full (i.e., no available dryer units), out of order, and the like). The application is further configured to allow for user selection of at least one device and present detailed information associated with the selected device.

The application provides detailed device information 1008 associated with a selected device in response to a device selection. The detailed information may include availability status of individual dryer units 106 within a selected drying device 100. The application is configured to allow for user selection of at least one available dryer unit for use. In some embodiments, the system and/or application reserves a selected dryer unit in response to selection of the dryer unit by the user. The dryer unit may be reserved and made unavailable for selection by other users for a predetermined period of time to allow for user payment and use of the dryer unit. The application may be further configured to receive payment information from a user after selection of a dryer unit. In other embodiments, a user's payment information is linked to a user profile, wherein the system may automatically retrieve the user's payment information from the user's profile to pay for use (i.e. rental) of the dryer unit.

FIG. 11 illustrates a graphical representation of a portion of a user application user interface 1100, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention. User interface 1100 may be presented to the user and continuously updated following confirmation of location, device, and device unit selections on the preceding user interface 1000 of FIG. 10 during execution of a drying process utilizing a selected dryer unit. As illustrated in FIG. 11, in user interface 1100, the application may present detailed device selection information 1102 to the user. In some embodiments, the detailed device selection information 1102 may include the location, device, and device unit information previously selected by the user. In this way, the user is able to reference the application to recall the exact location, device, and unit that contains the user's items thus preventing item loss as a result of user forgetfulness.

The application further presents and continuously updates a current dryer status 1104. In some embodiments, current dryer status 1104 may comprise a status of a drying cycle (e.g., in-progress, complete, interrupted, cooling down), a remaining time of a drying process, an internal temperature of the dryer unit, an internal moisture content of the dryer unit, a video feed (e.g., internal to the dryer unit or external of the drying device as a whole), and/or the like. In the illustrated embodiment, the application provides a countdown of a drying cycle lasting a predetermined length of time (e.g., 10 minutes). In some embodiments, the application may provide additional information following completion of a drying cycle. For example, the application may present an allotted time for user item retrieval from the dryer unit before additional rental fees are applied for prolonged usage or item storage exceeding the original predetermined length. In some embodiments, the application may be configured to allow the user to request or purchase additional drying time or dryer unit reservation time exceeding the previously purchased amount.

The application may further provide a cancel button 1106 for interrupting a current drying process to allow for recovery of items from the drying device before completion of the drying process. For example, a user may need to unexpectedly leave the location before the drying process is complete.

FIG. 12 provides a high level process flow for drying device operation 1200, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention. As illustrated in block 1210, the process 1200 is initiated by the system first receiving a request from a user device 620 for use of the drying device 100. In one embodiment, the request may be transmitted over a network to the central server and/or kiosk by a user device 620 via a user application. In an alternative embodiment, the user request may be input manually by the user directly at a kiosk of the drying device via the user interface of the drying device 100. In some embodiments, the request may comprise user profile information, location information, drying device information, dryer unit information, payment information and the like.

In some embodiments, the user is required to log in to the system by providing identifying information such as user authentication information or credentials in order to uniquely identify an identity of the user within the system (e.g., a user profile). In response, to receiving input identifying information from the user, the system may match the input information to a database of user information stored on a central server in order to confirm the identity of the user. In some embodiments, in response to matching and confirming an identity of the user, the system may further extract a user profile, preferences, payment information, and other associated data from the stored database for use within the system and application (e.g., auto-completion of fields and selections). In other embodiments, a user may be identified by the system through a combination of information provided from a user device associated with the user and information input on or received from a kiosk associated with the drying device.

In response to successfully receiving and processing the request from the user and successfully receiving payment, the system permits use of the drying device and a selected dryer unit by the user. In some embodiments, the system may unlock a selected dryer unit of the dryer device to allow for user access to the selected dryer unit. In some embodiments, the system unlocks the selected dryer unit upon determination that the user is within a predetermined distance from the drying device associated with the selected drying unit. In one embodiment, the system may unlock the selected dryer unit in response to determining that a user device associated with the user is within a predetermined distance from the drying device (e.g., via GPS or near-field communication). In another embodiment, the system may prompt the user via the application on the user device and/or via the kiosk to confirm that the user is within proximity to the drying device before unlocking the selected dryer unit.

The system may generate or issue a code for locking and/or unlocking a particular dryer unit. In one embodiment, the system may generate a predetermined or random code and associate the code with a particular dryer unit. In response to receiving the request from the user, the system may generate and display the code on the kiosk and/or the user device for use by the user. In an alternative embodiment, the system may prompt the user to input or provide a customized code or PIN to be temporarily associated with a particular dryer unit. When provided back to the system by the user, the code causes the locking and/or unlocking of the particular dryer unit. In another embodiment, the system may generate and/or receive a QR code to identify the user and/or lock/unlock a dryer unit.

As illustrated in block 1220, the system receives one or more items in a selected dryer unit of the drying device. In some embodiments, the system may determine that the user has completed a deposit of items in the selected dryer unit in response to the door of the selected dryer unit being closed. In another embodiment, the system may detect a weight of one or more items deposited in the selected dryer unit to determine that the user has completed a deposit of items. In another embodiment, the system may prompt the user via the application on the user device to confirm that the user has completed a deposit of items in the selected user device. In some embodiments, the system may lock the door of the dryer unit in response to receiving a signal that the user has completed a deposit of items. The system begins a drying process or cycle upon successful deposit of items within a selected dryer unit. In an alternative embodiment, the system prompts the user to begin the drying process by, for example, interacting with the application, kiosk, or selected dryer unit. In some embodiments, before starting the drying process, the system may receive from the user one or more settings for the drying process (e.g., preset cycle selections, temperature ranges, drying time, etc.).

In one embodiment, the system may determine that the user has deposited an excess of items into the dryer unit (i.e., overloading) via a detected weight of the deposited items in the dryer unit. In response to determining an excess of items, the system may generate and transmit a notification to the user regarding the overloaded dryer unit, ideally while the user is still nearby the dryer unit. The notification may be transmitted and presented to the user via a user device 620 associated with the user. In another embodiment, the notification may be presented to the user via a display of the drying device itself in addition to or alternative to the notification being transmitted to the user device 620.

Next as illustrated in block 1230, the system completes a drying process for the items in the selected dryer unit. The drying process or cycle comprises rotating the container of the dryer unit having the items placed inside while heated air is passed over and through the items in the container. In some embodiments, the drying process is a timed event wherein the items are dried in the dryer unit for a predetermined amount of time (e.g., 10 minutes). In another embodiment, the user may input a custom time amount for the items to be dried. In another alternative embodiment, the system may determine a moisture content within the container, wherein the drying process continues until the moisture content is reduced below a predetermined threshold.

In yet another embodiment, upon completion or at any time before completion (e.g., 1 minute before) of an initially programmed drying process, the system may determine that additional drying time is required to dry the contents of the dryer unit. In response to this determination, the system may transmit a message to the user device 620 notifying the user and/or requesting from the user additional drying time to supplement the initially programmed drying process.

As illustrated in block 1240, in response to completion of the drying process, the system transmits a notification to the user device 620 indicating the completed process to the user. The notification may be transmitted from the centralized server system 660 to the user device 620 via the user application on the user device 620. In an alternative embodiment, the system (e.g., the central server system 660) may transmit a text message, email, prerecorded phone call, push notification, or the like to the user device. In some embodiments, the system may transmit the notification to the user device 620 prior to completion of the drying process (e.g., 2 minutes prior). In this way, the user may be prepared to retrieve the items from the dryer unit in an efficient and timely manner to avoid, for example, wrinkling of items, incurred excess rental fees, theft of unattended items, and/or the like. In alternative embodiments, a portion of the drying device 100 may transmit the notification directly to the user device 620.

The notification informs the user of the completion of the drying process, but may also periodically provide a reminder for the user to retrieve the items from the dryer unit. In response to the user not retrieving items from the dryer unit within a predetermined length of time following completion of the drying process, the system may apply additional rental fees for prolonged usage or item storage exceeding the original predetermined length.

In some embodiments, the system unlocks the selected dryer unit upon completion of the drying process. In one embodiment, the system unlocks the dryer unit after a predetermined amount of time following the completion of the drying process. In other embodiments, the system unlocks the selected dryer unit upon determination that the user is within a predetermined distance from the drying device associated with the selected drying unit. In one embodiment, the system may unlock the selected dryer unit in response to determining that a user device associated with the user is within a predetermined distance from the drying device (e.g., via GPS or near-field communication). In another embodiment, the system may prompt the user via the application on the user device and/or via the kiosk to confirm that the user is within proximity to the drying device before unlocking the selected dryer unit. In yet another alternative embodiment, the system may unlock the door in response to a user inputting or providing a previously generated code (e.g., a password, PIN, QR code, etc.) to the system as previously discussed herein.

Finally, as illustrated in block 1250, the system determines a retrieval of the items from the selected dryer unit by the user. In one embodiment, the system determines a completed retrieval of the items from the dryer unit by the user in response to closure of the dryer door by the user following user access of the dryer unit after completion of the drying process. In another embodiment, the system may prompt the user via the application on the user device and/or via the kiosk to confirm that the user has retrieved the items. In yet another embodiment, the dryer unit may further comprise a scale to determine and/or confirm the presence of items within the container of the dryer unit.

In some embodiments, the system may detect the presence of one or more items within the dryer unit and notify the user to retrieve the one or more items before a successful retrieval may be confirmed by the system. In response to successful retrieval of the items, the system may lock the dryer unit door in preparation for another user.

In some embodiments, the user application may be configured for use by an administrator of the drying device 100 (e.g., an owner, maintenance service worker, etc.). The user application may be configured to provide notifications to the administrator regarding device information (e.g., malfunctions, errors, status, etc.) and payment information (e.g., collections, status, etc.). For example, the system may transmit a notification to an administrator indicating that items have been left in a dryer unit exceeding an originally purchased time period. In another example, the system may transmit a notification to an administrator indicating that one or more components of a drying device require maintenance or service. The notification may further comprise maintenance information such as a description of what particular dryer units require maintenance, a description of malfunctioning parts, a description of the required repairs, or the like. In some embodiments, the user application comprises an administrator-facing portion, wherein the administrator may control functions of the drying device such as locking/unlocking doors, changing drying process settings, changing pricing or the like.

As will be appreciated by one of skill in the art, the present invention may be embodied as a method (including, for example, a computer-implemented process, a business process, and/or any other process), apparatus (including, for example, a system, machine, device, computer program product, and/or the like), or a combination of the foregoing. Accordingly, embodiments of the present invention may take the form of an entirely hardware embodiment, an entirely software embodiment (including firmware, resident software, micro-code, etc.), or an embodiment combining software and hardware aspects that may generally be referred to herein as a “system.” Furthermore, embodiments of the present invention may take the form of a computer program product on a computer-readable medium having computer-executable program code embodied in the medium.

Any suitable transitory or non-transitory computer readable medium may be utilized. The computer readable medium may be, for example but not limited to, an electronic, magnetic, optical, electromagnetic, infrared, or semiconductor system, apparatus, or device. More specific examples of the computer readable medium include, but are not limited to, the following: an electrical connection having one or more wires; a tangible storage medium such as a portable computer diskette, a hard disk, a random access memory (RAM), a read-only memory (ROM), an erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM or Flash memory), a compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM), or other optical or magnetic storage device.

In the context of this document, a computer readable medium may be any medium that can contain, store, communicate, or transport the program for use by or in connection with the instruction execution system, apparatus, or device. The computer usable program code may be transmitted using any appropriate medium, including but not limited to the Internet, wireline, optical fiber cable, radio frequency (RF) signals, or other mediums.

Computer-executable program code for carrying out operations of embodiments of the present invention may be written in an object oriented, scripted or unscripted programming language such as Java, VB.net, C#, TSQL, Perl, Smalltalk, C++, and/or the like. However, the computer program code for carrying out operations of embodiments of the present invention may also be written in conventional procedural programming languages, such as the “C” programming language or similar programming languages.

Embodiments of the present invention are described above with reference to flowchart illustrations and/or block diagrams of methods, apparatus (systems), and computer program products. It will be understood that each block of the flowchart illustrations and/or block diagrams, and/or combinations of blocks in the flowchart illustrations and/or block diagrams, can be implemented by computer-executable program code portions. These computer-executable program code portions may be provided to a processor of a general purpose computer, special purpose computer, or other programmable data processing apparatus to produce a particular machine, such that the code portions, which execute via the processor of the computer or other programmable data processing apparatus, create mechanisms for implementing the functions/acts specified in the flowchart and/or block diagram block or blocks.

These computer-executable program code portions may also be stored in a computer-readable memory that can direct a computer or other programmable data processing apparatus to function in a particular manner, such that the code portions stored in the computer readable memory produce an article of manufacture including instruction mechanisms which implement the function/act specified in the flowchart and/or block diagram block(s).

The computer-executable program code may also be loaded onto a computer or other programmable data processing apparatus to cause a series of operational steps to be performed on the computer or other programmable apparatus to produce a computer-implemented process such that the code portions which execute on the computer or other programmable apparatus provide steps for implementing the functions/acts specified in the flowchart and/or block diagram block(s). Alternatively, computer program implemented steps or acts may be combined with operator or human implemented steps or acts in order to carry out an embodiment of the invention.

Embodiments of the present invention are described above with reference to flowcharts and/or block diagrams. It will be understood that steps of the processes described herein may be performed in orders different than those illustrated in the flowcharts. In other words, the processes represented by the blocks of a flowchart may, in some embodiments, be in performed in an order other that the order illustrated, may be combined or divided, or may be performed simultaneously. It will also be understood that the blocks of the block diagrams illustrated, in some embodiments, merely conceptual delineations between systems and one or more of the systems illustrated by a block in the block diagrams may be combined or share hardware and/or software with another one or more of the systems illustrated by a block in the block diagrams. Likewise, a device, system, apparatus, and/or the like may be made up of one or more devices, systems, apparatuses, and/or the like. For example, where a processor is illustrated or described herein, the processor may be made up of a plurality of microprocessors or other processing devices which may or may not be coupled to one another. Likewise, where a memory is illustrated or described herein, the memory may be made up of a plurality of memory devices which may or may not be coupled to one another.

While certain exemplary embodiments have been described and shown in the accompanying drawings, it is to be understood that such embodiments are merely illustrative of and not restrictive on the broad invention, and that this invention not be limited to the specific constructions and arrangements shown and described, since various other changes, combinations, omissions, modifications and substitutions, in addition to those set forth in the above paragraphs, are possible. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that various adaptations, modifications, and combinations of the just described embodiments can be configured without departing from the scope and spirit of the invention. Therefore, it is to be understood that, within the scope of the appended claims, the invention may be practiced other than as specifically described herein.

Claims

1. A drying device comprising:

a housing frame;

a shared exhaust manifold positioned within the housing frame; and

a plurality of dryer units positionable within the housing frame, the plurality of drying units being configured to operatively couple individually to the shared exhaust manifold,

wherein an airflow pathway is formed between an individual dryer unit and the shared exhaust manifold when the individual dryer unit is operatively coupled to the shared exhaust manifold.

2. The drying device of claim 1, wherein the individual dryer unit is configured to be removable from or repositionable within the housing frame.

3. The drying device of claim 2, wherein the individual dryer unit is configured to decouple from the shared exhaust manifold when the individual dryer unit is removed from the housing frame.

4. The drying device of claim 1, wherein the drying device is configured to block the airflow pathway while the individual dryer unit is positioned within the housing frame.

5. The drying device of claim 1, wherein the individual dryer unit comprises an airflow separator forming an interior chamber divided into an intake compartment and an exhaust compartment, wherein the exhaust compartment is configured to form the airflow pathway with the shared exhaust manifold when the individual dryer unit is operatively coupled to the shared exhaust manifold.

6. The drying device of claim 5, wherein the drying device further comprises a flap configured to block the airflow pathway from the individual dryer unit to the shared exhaust manifold.

7. The drying device of claim 1, wherein the plurality of dryer units are vertically positionable within the housing frame adjacent the shared exhaust manifold.

8. The drying device of claim 1, wherein the drying device further comprises a terminal positioned within the housing frame, the terminal being configured for controlling operation of the plurality of dryer units.

9. The drying device of claim 8, wherein the terminal is configured to be in network communication with at least one of a user device and a central server, wherein the terminal is configured to control the operation of the plurality of dryer units through the network communication with the at least one of the user device and the central server.

10. A modular drying device comprising:

a housing frame; and

a dryer unit positionable within the housing frame,

wherein the dryer unit is configured to be removable from or repositionable within the housing frame.

11. The modular drying device of claim 10, the modular drying device further comprising an exhaust manifold positioned within the housing frame, wherein the dryer unit is configured to operatively couple to the exhaust manifold when the dryer unit is positioned within the housing frame.

12. The modular drying device of claim 11, the modular drying device further comprising a flap configured to block an airflow from the dryer unit to the exhaust manifold.

13. The modular drying device of claim 12, wherein the flap is configured to automatically block the airflow from the dryer unit to the exhaust manifold when the dryer unit is removed from the housing frame.

14. The modular drying device of claim 10, wherein the dryer unit is a first dryer unit having a first cylindrical container, wherein the modular drying device further comprises a second dryer unit having a second cylindrical container, and wherein a diameter of the first cylindrical container is different than a diameter of the second cylindrical container.

15. A dryer unit comprising:

a container;

a motor coupled to the container and configured for rotating the container about an axis;

an airflow separator forming an interior chamber, the airflow separator comprising a wall positioned in the internal chamber for dividing the internal chamber into an intake compartment and an exhaust compartment; and

a heating element configured to heat an airflow provided to the container from the airflow separator.

16. The dryer unit of claim 15, wherein the wall of the airflow separator is aerodynamically curved to direct the airflow through the airflow separator.

17. The dryer unit of claim 15, wherein the wall creates a seal between the intake compartment and the exhaust compartment within the internal chamber.

18. The dryer unit of claim 15, wherein the container is rotatably mounted to and horizontally suspended from the airflow separator, wherein the airflow separator at least partially supports the container.

19. The dryer unit of claim 15, wherein the airflow separator is configured to be operatively coupled to an exhaust manifold, wherein an exhaust airflow is provided to the exhaust manifold through the airflow separator when the airflow separator is operatively coupled to the exhaust manifold.

20. The dryer unit of claim 19, wherein at least one of the airflow separator and the exhaust manifold further comprises a flap configured to block the exhaust airflow from the dryer unit to the exhaust manifold.