Water cup assembly of a dishwasher and dishwasher

Abstract

This utility model relates to dishwashers, specifically providing a water cup assembly and a dishwasher, aiming to solve the problem of insufficient water intake in existing dishwasher water pump inlet structures, which leads to air or foam easily entering the water pump, causing cavitation and affecting the stability and reliability of the system operation. To this end, the water cup assembly of this utility model includes: a water cup with a downwardly recessed first groove; an insert disposed within the first groove to restrict the water flow path within the first groove; the insert has a notch, allowing water in the first groove to flow along the notch. The notch in this utility model increases the water intake in the first groove, helping to form a stable water seal layer in the water tank, effectively preventing air from entering the washing pump and preventing cavitation, thereby improving the operational stability and reliability of the washing system. Simultaneously, the notch structure of the insert reduces material usage while meeting functional requirements.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model relates to dishwashers, specifically providing a water cup assembly for a dishwasher and a dishwasher. Background Technology

[0002] With rising living standards and increasing demands for efficient kitchen cleaning, dishwashers, as modern kitchen appliances, are widely used in homes and commercial establishments such as restaurants and hotels. Dishwashers typically use an automatic control system and a spray system to efficiently clean dishes. The spray system includes rotating spray arms and a wash pump, which provides high-pressure rinsing to remove grease and residue. During dishwasher operation, the wash pump, as a core component, directly affects the spray pressure, water flow distribution, and cleaning effect. To ensure continuous water circulation, the wash pump needs to stably draw in and pressurize the wash water. However, insufficient water intake can cause air to enter the wash pump. This not only causes pump vibration, increased noise, and unstable water flow, but can also lead to fluctuations in motor load, increased energy consumption, and even damage to the wash pump and triggering of the machine's protection mechanisms, significantly reducing the reliability and lifespan of the entire machine.

[0003] In existing technologies, a water cup structure is typically installed at the inlet of the washing pump, and the water flow is guided by an internal annular insert, as shown in the reference. Figure 1 However, while this structure does guide water flow to some extent, it limits the water inlet area of ​​the tank, thus reducing the water intake. Insufficient water intake not only makes it difficult to quickly form an effective water seal, but it is also easily disrupted when foam increases, allowing air or foam to enter the pump, exacerbating cavitation and affecting the pump's stable operation. Therefore, there is still room for improvement in the existing structure to enhance pump inlet stability and reduce the risk of cavitation.

[0004] Therefore, there is an urgent need in the field for a dishwasher cup assembly and a dishwasher to solve the above problems. Utility Model Content

[0005] The present invention aims to solve the above-mentioned technical problems, namely, to solve the problem that the water inlet structure of the existing dishwasher water pump is insufficient, which makes it easy for air or foam to enter the water pump, causing cavitation and affecting the stability and reliability of the system operation.

[0006] In a first aspect, the present invention provides a water cup assembly for a dishwasher, the water cup assembly comprising:

[0007] A water cup, which has a first recessed groove that is downwardly indented;

[0008] An insert is disposed within the first groove to restrict the water flow path within the first groove;

[0009] The insert has a notch, allowing water in the first groove to flow along the notch.

[0010] In a specific embodiment of the above-mentioned water cup assembly, the insert includes an upper guide portion, which is provided with the notch so that the upper guide portion is annular in shape.

[0011] In a specific embodiment of the above-mentioned water cup assembly, the upper edge of the upper guide portion is fitted to the inner wall of the first groove.

[0012] In a specific embodiment of the above-mentioned water cup assembly, the upper surface of the upper guide portion is a downwardly inclined conical surface, and the water in the first groove can flow along the conical surface.

[0013] In a specific embodiment of the above-mentioned water cup assembly, the insert further includes a lower guide portion, the upper end of which is connected to the lower end of the upper guide portion. The lower guide portion is provided with the notch so that the shape of the lower guide portion is an open cylinder, and the notch of the upper guide portion communicates with the notch of the lower guide portion.

[0014] In a specific embodiment of the above-mentioned water cup assembly, the insert further includes a support portion, the upper end of which is connected to the lower end of the lower guide portion, and the lower end of which abuts against the bottom surface of the first groove to support the insert.

[0015] In a specific embodiment of the above-mentioned water cup assembly, the insert further includes a first snap-fit ​​portion, and the water cup includes a second snap-fit ​​portion. The first snap-fit ​​portion and the second snap-fit ​​portion snap-fit ​​together so that the insert is connected to the inside of the water cup.

[0016] In a specific embodiment of the above-mentioned water cup assembly, a second recessed groove is provided at the bottom of the first groove, and the insert can guide water in the second groove to flow into the second groove.

[0017] In a specific embodiment of the above-mentioned water cup assembly, the second groove is provided with a water outlet, which is used to connect a water pump.

[0018] In a second aspect, the present invention provides a dishwasher that includes the aforementioned water cup assembly.

[0019] By adopting the above technical solution, this utility model provides an insert with a notch in the first groove of the water cup. Compared with the ring insert in the prior art, the notch can increase the water inflow into the first groove, which helps to form a stable water seal layer in the water tank, effectively preventing air from entering the washing pump and preventing cavitation, thereby improving the operational stability and reliability of the washing system. At the same time, the notch structure of the insert reduces the amount of material used while meeting functional requirements, lowers manufacturing costs, balances performance and economy, and enhances the product's market competitiveness.

[0020] Furthermore, the upper edge of the upper guide portion of the insert is fitted to the inner wall of the groove. This arrangement prevents air and foam from entering the first groove through the gap between the insert and the inner wall of the first groove, thereby reducing the amount of air entering the washing pump.

[0021] Furthermore, the upper surface of the upper guide section has a conical structure, which can further guide the water flow downwards and concentrate it, optimizing the water flow path, improving the guiding efficiency, reducing flow resistance, and thus further enhancing the water intake capacity and water seal effect. This series of designs not only improves system performance but also has good structural adaptability and manufacturing feasibility. Attached Figure Description

[0022] The preferred embodiments of this utility model are described below with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0023] Figure 1 This is a structural diagram of a water cup assembly in the prior art. Component No. 2 in the diagram is a ring-shaped insert in the prior art.

[0024] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the internal structure of the water cup assembly provided by this utility model;

[0025] Figure 3 This is a first-view structural schematic diagram of the insert provided by this utility model;

[0026] Figure 4 This is a second-view structural schematic diagram of the insert provided by this utility model.

[0027] List of reference numerals in the attached diagram:

[0028] 1. Water cup; 11. First groove; 12. Second groove; 13. First water outlet; 14. Water inlet; 15. Second water outlet;

[0029] 2. Insert; 21. Upper guide part; 22. Lower guide part; 23. Support part; 24. First snap-fit ​​part. Detailed Implementation

[0030] Preferred embodiments of the present invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Those skilled in the art should understand that these embodiments are merely illustrative of the technical principles of the present invention and are not intended to limit the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0031] It should be noted that in the description of this utility model, the terms "upper," "lower," "left," "right," "inner," and "outer," which indicate directional or positional relationships, are based on the directional or positional relationships shown in the accompanying drawings. These are merely for ease of description and do not indicate or imply that the device or element must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on this utility model. Furthermore, the terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance.

[0032] Furthermore, it should be noted that, in the description of this utility model, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "setting," and "connection" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; they can refer to a direct connection, an indirect connection through an intermediate medium, or a connection within two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this utility model according to the specific circumstances.

[0033] To address the problem that existing dishwasher water pump inlet structures often result in insufficient water intake, leading to air or foam easily entering the pump and causing cavitation, thus affecting the stability and reliability of the system, this embodiment discloses a dishwasher that includes a water cup assembly. (Refer to...) Figure 2 The water cup assembly includes a water cup 1 and an insert 2.

[0034] A water cup 1 is located at the bottom of the dishwasher's washing chamber, primarily for collecting and containing the circulating washing water within the chamber. The water cup 1 contains a water tank, which includes a first groove 11 and a second groove 12. The first groove 11 is located at the bottom of the water cup 1 and is recessed downwards; its shape is approximately cylindrical. The bottom surface of the first groove 11 has a recessed second groove 12, also approximately cylindrical, with a diameter smaller than that of the first groove 11. A first water outlet 13 is located on the inner wall of the second groove 12, connected to the dishwasher's washing pump inlet. The washing pump's outlet is connected to the dishwasher's spray arm. The washing pump draws in the washing water from the water tank, pressurizes it, and then delivers the water to the spray arm. The spray arm uses nozzles to spray the washing water evenly onto the surfaces of the dishes in the washing chamber using high-pressure jets, achieving a powerful rinse. The sprayed washing water then flows back into the water cup 1, achieving water recycling. Furthermore, the water cup 1 is also equipped with a water inlet 14, which is connected to an external water source via a pipe. When the dishwasher is running, if the circulating water volume in the washing chamber is insufficient or the system detects that the water level is below a set threshold, external water can be automatically introduced through the water inlet 14 to replenish the circulating water in the washing chamber in a timely manner, ensuring the continuity and stability of the washing process and avoiding the impact of insufficient water volume on the washing effect. Furthermore, the water cup 1 is also equipped with a second water outlet 15, which is connected to a drain pump to promptly discharge the wastewater in the washing chamber after the washing program is completed, ensuring that the washing chamber remains clean and avoiding odors or secondary pollution caused by wastewater accumulation, thereby improving the overall hygiene and ease of maintenance of the machine.

[0035] Regarding the shapes of the first groove 11 and the second groove 12, it should be noted that although both the first groove 11 and the second groove 12 in this embodiment are cylindrical grooves, this arrangement is not a limitation of the present invention. Without departing from the principle of the present invention, those skilled in the art can use other arrangements in other embodiments. For example, the shapes of the first groove 11 and the second groove 12 can also be set as grooves of other shapes, as long as the second groove 12 is located at the bottom of the first groove 11 and the diameter of the second groove 12 is smaller than the diameter of the first groove 11. This does not depart from the basic principle of the present invention and therefore falls within the protection scope of the present invention.

[0036] Insert 2 is disposed in the first groove 11. (See reference...) Figure 3 and Figure 4 The insert 2 includes an integrally formed upper guide portion 21, a lower guide portion 22, a support portion 23, and a first snap-fit ​​portion 24.

[0037] The upper guide portion 21 is approximately shaped like an annular plate with a notch. The upper surface of the upper guide portion 21 is conical, specifically a cone with a decreasing radius from top to bottom, allowing water flowing into the first groove 11 to flow downwards along its upper surface. The upper edge of the upper guide portion 21 adheres to the inner wall of the first groove 11. Since detergent is used in the dishwasher, foam is generated in the washing water. This foam flowing into the washing pump can cause it to cavitate. The close fit between the upper guide portion 21 and the inner wall of the first groove 11 effectively prevents foam generated in the washing water from entering the second groove 12 through the small gap between the upper guide portion 21 and the inner wall of the first groove 11. By reducing the entry of foam and air, the risk of washing pump cavitation is significantly reduced, thus helping to maintain the sealing and operational stability of the entire washing system.

[0038] Regarding the upper guide portion 21, it should be noted that although the upper guide portion 21 in this embodiment is an annular plate with a conical surface and a notch, this arrangement is not a limitation of the present invention. Without departing from the principle of the present invention, those skilled in the art can use other arrangements in other embodiments. For example, the upper guide portion 21 can also be arranged according to the shape of the first groove 11, as long as the edge of the upper guide portion 21 can fit the first groove 11 and the upper guide portion 21 is provided with a circumferential notch. This does not depart from the basic principle of the present invention and therefore falls within the protection scope of the present invention.

[0039] The lower guide portion 22 is approximately shaped like a cylinder with a notch. The lower end of the upper guide portion 21 connects to the upper end of the lower guide portion 22, which extends downwards and forms a cavity inside. Water flowing down from the upper surface of the upper guide portion 21 can flow into the cavity. The lower part of the cavity connects to the second groove 12, allowing water from the cavity to flow into the second groove 12.

[0040] Regarding the lower guide portion 22, it should be noted that although the shape of the lower guide portion 22 in this embodiment is a cylinder with a notch, this arrangement is not a limitation of the present invention. Without departing from the principle of the present invention, those skilled in the art can use other arrangements in other embodiments. For example, the lower guide portion 22 can also be arranged according to the shape of the first groove 11 and the shape of the second groove 12. This does not depart from the basic principle of the present invention and therefore falls within the protection scope of the present invention.

[0041] The lower guide portion 22 has a plurality of support portions 23 at its lower end, and the support portions 23 extend downward. The support portions 23 abut against the bottom surface of the water tank to support the insert 2. Furthermore, the plurality of support portions 23 are spaced apart, with a gap formed between two adjacent support portions 23. The gaps in the upper guide portion 21, the lower guide portion 22, and the support portions 23 are connected.

[0042] Reference Figure 2 The working principle of the insert 2 is as follows: a portion of the water in the first groove 11 flows into the cavity and then into the second groove 12 to enter the first outlet 13. Another portion of the water in the first groove 11 flows into the notch of the insert 2. The water in the notch contacts the bottom surface of the first groove 11 and then flows into the second groove 12 along the bottom surface of the first groove 11. Compared to the existing ring-shaped insert 2, this notch increases the water inflow into the second groove 12, forming a more stable and continuous water seal layer within the second groove 12. This water seal layer effectively blocks the entry of external air, preventing air from mixing into the washing water flow, thus avoiding cavitation when the washing pump draws in air, and helping to ensure the operational stability and reliability of the washing system. Furthermore, the notch-designed insert 2 not only meets functional requirements but also has the advantage of saving materials. Compared to the complete ring-shaped insert 2, the notch design reduces the amount of material required for the insert 2, thereby reducing manufacturing costs. This design balances performance and economy, and is of great significance for industrial production and market promotion.

[0043] Furthermore, the insert 2 design includes a first snap-fit ​​portion 24, while the water cup 1 has a corresponding second snap-fit ​​portion. The first snap-fit ​​portion 24 and the second snap-fit ​​portion are tightly connected by a snap-fit ​​mechanism, achieving a fixed connection between the insert 2 and the water cup 1. This snap-fit ​​structure adopts a detachable design, ensuring both the stable installation of the insert 2 and facilitating subsequent disassembly. When users or maintenance personnel need to clean or replace the insert 2, they do not need to use complicated tools; they can simply remove the insert 2 with a simple operation, greatly improving the ease of equipment maintenance and user experience. In addition, this snap-fit ​​structure also reduces maintenance costs, extends the service life of the dishwasher, and ensures that the equipment always maintains a good working condition. Therefore, this design not only satisfies the high efficiency of assembly but also takes into account the convenience of daily maintenance and management, reflecting a combination of practicality and human-centered design.

[0044] The technical solution of this utility model has been described in conjunction with the preferred embodiments shown in the accompanying drawings. However, it will be readily understood by those skilled in the art that the protection scope of this utility model is obviously not limited to these specific embodiments. Without departing from the principle of this utility model, those skilled in the art can make equivalent changes or substitutions to the relevant technical features, and the technical solutions after these changes or substitutions will all fall within the protection scope of this utility model.

Claims

1. A water cup assembly for a dishwasher, characterized in that, include: A water cup (1) having a first recessed groove (11) that is recessed downwards; An insert (2) is disposed within the first groove (11) to restrict the water flow path within the first groove (11); The insert (2) is provided with a notch, and water in the first groove (11) can flow along the notch.

2. The water cup assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, The insert (2) includes an upper guide portion (21) with the notch so that the upper guide portion (21) is annular in shape.

3. The water cup assembly according to claim 2, characterized in that, The upper edge of the upper guide portion (21) is fitted to the inner wall of the first groove (11).

4. The water cup assembly according to claim 2, characterized in that, The upper surface of the upper guide (21) is a downwardly inclined conical surface, and the water in the first groove (11) can flow along the conical surface.

5. The water cup assembly according to claim 2, characterized in that, The insert (2) further includes a lower guide portion (22), the upper end of which is connected to the lower end of the upper guide portion (21). The lower guide portion (22) is provided with the notch so that the shape of the lower guide portion (22) is an open cylinder. The notch of the upper guide portion (21) is connected to the notch of the lower guide portion (22).

6. The water cup assembly according to claim 5, characterized in that, The insert (2) further includes a support (23), the upper end of which is connected to the lower end of the lower guide (22), and the lower end of which abuts against the bottom surface of the first groove (11) to support the insert (2).

7. The water cup assembly according to claim 2, characterized in that, The insert (2) further includes a first snap-fit ​​portion (24), and the water cup (1) includes a second snap-fit ​​portion. The first snap-fit ​​portion (24) snaps into the second snap-fit ​​portion so that the insert (2) is connected to the water cup (1).

8. The water cup assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, The bottom of the first groove (11) is provided with a downwardly recessed second groove (12), and the insert (2) can guide water in the second groove (12) to flow into the second groove (12).

9. The water cup assembly according to claim 8, characterized in that, The second groove (12) is provided with a water outlet (13), which is used to connect a water pump.

10. A dishwasher, characterized in that, Includes the water cup assembly as described in any one of claims 1-9.

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