Drain structure and dishwasher

Abstract

This utility model provides a drainage structure and a dishwasher. The drainage structure is disposed at the bottom of a water cup and includes a check valve assembly and a drainage assembly. The check valve assembly includes a valve body mounting seat and a valve core. The valve body mounting seat is disposed on the outer wall of the water cup, and a flow guide cavity communicating with the interior of the water cup is formed inside the valve body mounting seat. A valve chamber is located within the flow guide cavity, and the valve core is rotatably disposed within the valve chamber to open or close the check valve assembly. The valve core is a sphere, and a sealing structure is provided between the valve core and the inner wall of the valve chamber. The drainage assembly is disposed on the valve body mounting seat. This utility model addresses the technical problem that contaminants can easily affect the sealing performance of check valves, improving stability and durability in use.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model relates to the field of household appliance technology, and in particular to a drainage structure and a dishwasher. Background Technology

[0002] In dishwasher drainage systems, top drainage has significant advantages in ensuring the cleaning effect and equipment stability of the dishwasher. It increases the water level inside the dishwasher during the cleaning process, ensuring that the dishes are fully soaked and cleaned, thus improving the cleaning effect. However, the top drainage design causes residual water inside the raised drain pipe to flow back into the dishwasher, polluting the internal environment.

[0003] Some traditional solutions use a motor-operated anti-backflow method, where an electric motor controls the opening and closing of a rubber stopper to prevent water from flowing back. However, rubber stoppers are susceptible to contaminants during use, leading to reduced sealing performance. Over time, they may lose elasticity and sealing ability due to dirt accumulation, ultimately causing leakage problems. This results in poor stability and durability.

[0004] However, it is urgent to address the impact of contaminants on sealing performance and improve the sealing performance of check valves. Utility Model Content

[0005] This utility model provides a drainage structure and a dishwasher to solve the technical problem that contaminants can easily affect the sealing performance of the check valve, thereby improving the stability and durability of use.

[0006] To achieve the above objectives, this utility model provides a drainage structure disposed at the bottom of a water cup, the drainage structure comprising:

[0007] A check valve assembly includes a valve body mounting base and a valve core. The valve body mounting base is disposed on the outer wall of the water cup. A flow guide cavity communicating with the inside of the water cup is formed inside the valve body mounting base. A valve cavity is provided inside the flow guide cavity. The valve core is rotatably disposed in the valve cavity to open or close the check valve assembly. The valve core is a ball. A sealing structure is provided between the valve core and the inner wall of the valve cavity.

[0008] A drainage assembly is disposed on the valve body mounting base.

[0009] This application provides a drainage structure that includes a check valve assembly. The check valve assembly comprises a valve core, which is rotatably positioned within a valve cavity. This allows the check valve assembly to open and close. During drainage, the valve core rotates to the open position; after drainage, it rotates to the closed position, preventing residual water from flowing back and contaminating the dishwasher's internal environment. A sealing structure is provided between the valve core and the inner wall of the valve cavity. The valve core is designed as a sphere, which minimizes dead zones within the valve cavity, preventing the accumulation of dirt and impurities. This avoids sealing failure due to contaminant buildup and prevents leakage after prolonged use due to contaminants. This improves the stability of the sealing function, more effectively preventing residual water backflow, thereby reducing contamination of the dishwasher's internal environment and enhancing its durability and hygiene.

[0010] In one possible implementation, the inner wall of the first end of the valve cavity has a first limiting boss, and the sealing structure includes a first sealing element that abuts against the first limiting boss and the valve core; and / or,

[0011] The inner wall of the second end of the valve cavity has a second limiting boss, and the sealing structure includes a second sealing element, which abuts against the second limiting boss and the valve core.

[0012] In one possible implementation, the valve core has a valve hole extending through both ends of the valve core, and the axial direction of the valve hole has an angle α with the central axis of rotation of the valve core, 85°≤α≤95°;

[0013] Both the first and second seals are sealing rings, and the center lines of the first and second seals are at an angle β with the central axis of rotation of the valve core, where 85°≤β≤95°.

[0014] In one possible implementation, the check valve assembly further includes:

[0015] A driving component is disposed on the outer wall of the valve body mounting seat, and the driving component has an output shaft;

[0016] A positioning shaft, one end of which is connected to the output shaft and the other end of which is connected to the valve core, so as to drive the valve core to rotate;

[0017] A detection unit is used to detect the rotation angle of the valve core.

[0018] In one possible implementation, the detection unit includes:

[0019] A function switch having a button;

[0020] The first protrusion and the second protrusion are disposed at intervals on the outer peripheral surface of the positioning shaft along the circumferential direction of the positioning shaft.

[0021] With the center of the positioning axis as the center, the center angle corresponding to the first protrusion is different from the center angle corresponding to the second protrusion.

[0022] In one possible implementation, with the center of the positioning shaft as the center, the center angle corresponding to the first protrusion is greater than the center angle corresponding to the second protrusion, and the valve core has a valve hole that passes through both ends of the valve core.

[0023] When the positioning shaft rotates to the point where the first protrusion leaves the button, the valve core is in the open position where the valve hole communicates with the flow guide cavity.

[0024] In one possible implementation, the end of the valve body mounting base remote from the water cup forms a water outlet, and the drainage assembly includes:

[0025] The mounting shell has a drainage cavity inside. One end of the mounting shell has a connecting pipe head, which is connected to the water outlet. The second limiting boss is located on the inner wall surface of the connecting pipe head. The other end of the mounting shell forms a drainage outlet that communicates with the drainage cavity.

[0026] A drain pump is disposed in the mounting housing to discharge water from the water cup through the drain outlet.

[0027] In one possible implementation, the water cup has a water outlet for allowing water from the water cup to flow to the check valve assembly, one end of the valve body mounting base forms a drain inlet communicating with the interior of the water cup, and the valve core has a valve hole penetrating both ends of the valve core.

[0028] The lowest point of the inner wall of the drain inlet is lower than or flush with the lowest point of the outlet; and / or,

[0029] The lowest point of the inner wall of the flow guiding cavity is lower than or flush with the lowest point of the drainage inlet; and / or,

[0030] The lowest point of the inner wall of the valve orifice is lower than or flush with the lowest point of the inner wall of the guide cavity; and / or,

[0031] The drainage assembly includes a mounting housing, within which a drainage cavity is formed, the lowest point of the inner wall of the drainage cavity being lower than or flush with the lowest point of the inner wall of the valve hole.

[0032] In one possible implementation, the drainage structure further includes a foreign object baffle, one end of the valve body mounting base forms a drainage inlet communicating with the interior of the water cup, and the foreign object baffle is disposed at the drainage inlet.

[0033] In one possible implementation, a third seal is provided between the connecting pipe head and the inner wall surface of the water outlet.

[0034] In one possible implementation, a clearance hole is provided in the valve body mounting seat, one end of the positioning shaft is connected to the valve core through the clearance hole, and a fourth sealing element is provided between the positioning shaft and the inner wall of the clearance hole.

[0035] This application also provides a dishwasher, including the drainage structure described above.

[0036] The drainage structure and dishwasher provided by this utility model allow the check valve assembly's valve core to switch to the open position at the start of each washing cycle, keeping the water path unobstructed and allowing water to flow smoothly into the dishwasher. As the washing cycle is about to end, the check valve assembly's valve core switches to the closed position, preventing residual water from the external water path from flowing back into the dishwasher. Each cycle only requires two brief power-on cycles, once at the start and once at the end, significantly reducing power consumption and allowing more energy to be used to improve washing efficiency. Furthermore, because the check valve assembly operates infrequently, its durability is high, reducing wear and tear and malfunctions caused by frequent operation.

[0037] In addition to the technical problems solved by the embodiments of the present invention, the technical features constituting the technical solutions, and the beneficial effects brought about by the technical features of these technical solutions as described above, other technical problems that can be solved by the drainage structure and dishwasher provided by the embodiments of the present invention, other technical features included in the technical solutions, and the beneficial effects brought about by these technical features will be further described in detail in the specific embodiments. Attached Figure Description

[0038] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this utility model or the prior art, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are some embodiments of this utility model. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0039] Figure 1 A partial structural schematic diagram of a dishwasher provided in an embodiment of this utility model;

[0040] Figure 2 A three-dimensional structural diagram of the drainage structure installed in a water cup according to an embodiment of this utility model;

[0041] Figure 3 Another three-dimensional structural diagram of the drainage structure provided in this embodiment of the utility model installed in a water cup;

[0042] Figure 4 A cross-sectional view of the drainage structure and water cup provided in the embodiment of this utility model with the valve core in the open position;

[0043] Figure 5 for Figure 4 Enlarged view of the structure at point A;

[0044] Figure 6 A cross-sectional view of the drainage structure and water cup provided in an embodiment of this utility model with the valve core in the closed position;

[0045] Figure 7 for Figure 6 Enlarged view of the structure at point B;

[0046] Figure 8 A schematic diagram of the structure of the drainage structure provided in this embodiment of the present utility model when the positioning shaft rotates to the point where the first protrusion leaves the button of the function switch;

[0047] Figure 9 A schematic diagram of the structure of the drainage structure provided in this embodiment of the utility model when the positioning shaft rotates to the point where the second protrusion leaves the button of the function switch;

[0048] Figure 10 Another cross-sectional view of the drainage structure and water cup provided in this embodiment of the utility model with the valve core in the closed position;

[0049] Figure 11 Another cross-sectional view of the drainage structure and water cup provided in this embodiment of the utility model with the valve core in the open position;

[0050] Figure 12 A partial structural diagram of the drainage structure and dishwasher provided in an embodiment of this utility model;

[0051] Figure 13 This is another partial structural diagram of the drainage structure and dishwasher provided in an embodiment of the present utility model.

[0052] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures:

[0053] 10 - Valve body mounting base;

[0054] 11-Drainage inlet;

[0055] 12-Water outlet interface;

[0056] 13-Guiding cavity;

[0057] 131 - Valve cavity;

[0058] 14 - First limiting boss;

[0059] 15-Allowance hole;

[0060] 16-Foreign object baffle;

[0061] 20 - Check valve assembly;

[0062] 21-Valve core;

[0063] 211-Valve hole;

[0064] 22-Drive components;

[0065] 221 - Output shaft;

[0066] 23 - Positioning axis;

[0067] 231 - Mounting hole;

[0068] 232 - Fixed shaft;

[0069] 24-Detection unit;

[0070] 241 - Function switch;

[0071] 2411 - Button;

[0072] 242 - First protrusion;

[0073] 243 - Second protrusion;

[0074] 25 - Control box;

[0075] 251 - Receptacle;

[0076] 30 - Drainage components;

[0077] 31 - Mounting housing;

[0078] 311 - Second limiting boss;

[0079] 312 - Connecting pipe head;

[0080] 313 - Drainage outlet;

[0081] 314 - Drainage chamber;

[0082] 32 - Drainage pump;

[0083] 33-Connecting pipe;

[0084] 41 - First seal;

[0085] 42 - Second seal;

[0086] 43 - Third seal;

[0087] 44 - Fourth seal;

[0088] 45 - Fifth seal;

[0089] 50-water cup;

[0090] 51-sink;

[0091] 52 - Outlet;

[0092] 53 - Filter assembly;

[0093] 60 - Respirator;

[0094] 61-Drainage pipe;

[0095] 70-Inner Liner;

[0096] 80-Base;

[0097] L1 - Axial indicator line of the valve orifice;

[0098] L2 - The central axis of valve core rotation;

[0099] L3 - Centerline of the first seal and centerline of the second seal. Detailed Implementation

[0100] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of this utility model clearer, the technical solutions of this utility model will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of this utility model, not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of this utility model, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the protection scope of this utility model.

[0101] The drainage system is a crucial component of a dishwasher, ensuring that dirty water is effectively drained after washing for the next cycle. Most current dishwashers use a top-drain system, which raises the water level inside the dishwasher during the wash cycle, ensuring dishes are thoroughly soaked and cleaned, thus improving cleaning results. However, residual water inside the raised drain pipe can flow back into the dishwasher, contaminating the internal environment.

[0102] In related technologies, dishwashers employ a pull-motor backflow prevention system to prevent water backflow and address the issue of residual water contamination. However, this design requires the pull motor to remain powered during drainage to ensure the check valve functions properly. This means that the motor needs to be powered on every time drainage occurs, leading to increased energy consumption. Furthermore, the pull motor typically contains a rubber stopper for sealing; however, over time, contaminants may accumulate around the rubber stopper, gradually causing the seal to fail and resulting in slow water leakage.

[0103] In view of this, the drainage structure and dishwasher provided by this utility model, by setting a check valve assembly, can prevent residual water from flowing back and contaminating the internal environment of the dishwasher. By setting a sealing structure between the valve core and the inner wall of the valve cavity, the valve core is designed as a ball. The structure of the ball makes the inside of the valve cavity less dead corner, making it less likely for dirt and impurities to accumulate. This avoids the problem of sealing failure caused by the accumulation of contaminants, avoids the possibility of leakage due to contaminants after long-term use, improves the stability of the sealing function, and more effectively prevents residual water from flowing back, thereby reducing the pollution of the internal environment of the dishwasher and improving hygiene.

[0104] The drainage structure and dishwasher provided in the embodiments of this utility model are described below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0105] refer to Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, this application provides a drainage structure disposed at the bottom of a water cup 50. The drainage structure includes a check valve assembly 20 and a drainage assembly 30. The check valve assembly 20 includes a valve body mounting seat 10, which is disposed on the outer side wall of the water cup 50. (Refer to...) Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, the valve body mounting base 10 has a flow guide cavity 13 that communicates with the inside of the water cup 50, and the flow guide cavity 13 has a valve cavity 131; the check valve assembly 20 is disposed on the valve body mounting base 10, and the check valve assembly 20 also includes a valve core 21, which is rotatably disposed in the valve cavity 131 so that the flow guide cavity 13 is blocked or connected. The valve core 21 is a ball, and a sealing structure is provided between the valve core 21 and the inner wall of the valve cavity 131; the drain assembly 30 is disposed on the valve body mounting base 10.

[0106] This application provides a drainage structure that includes a check valve assembly 20. The check valve assembly 20 includes a valve core 21, which is rotatably disposed within a valve cavity 131. This allows the check valve assembly 20 to open and close. During drainage, the valve core 21 rotates to the open position, and after drainage, it rotates to the closed position, preventing residual water from flowing back and contaminating the internal environment of the dishwasher. A sealing structure is provided between the valve core 21 and the inner wall of the valve cavity 131. The valve core 21 is designed as a sphere. The spherical structure minimizes dead corners inside the valve cavity 131, making it less prone to the accumulation of dirt and impurities. This avoids sealing failure due to contaminant buildup and prevents leakage after long-term use due to contaminants. This improves the stability of the sealing function, more effectively preventing residual water from flowing back, thereby reducing contamination of the dishwasher's internal environment and improving hygiene.

[0107] The valve core 21 of the check valve assembly 20 rotates and must not be obstructed by large contaminants; otherwise, it will jam and malfunction. (Refer to...) Figure 5 , Figure 8 and Figure 9 As shown, a filter assembly 53 is installed on the water cup 50, which can prevent larger contaminants from entering the guide cavity 13, effectively preventing physical damage or blockage caused by larger contaminants to the valve core 21 and the sealing structure. The valve core 21 rotates, keeping the sealing structure and the valve core 21 in a tight fit. Small contaminants that enter the guide cavity 13 with the water flow do not have the conditions to accumulate at the sealing structure, reducing the problem of seal failure and leakage caused by contaminant accumulation. Even after long-term use, the check valve assembly 20 can still maintain a good sealing effect, effectively preventing backflow and improving the stability of the sealing function.

[0108] At the start of each wash cycle, the valve core 21 of the check valve assembly 20 switches to the open position to keep the water path unobstructed, allowing water to flow smoothly into the dishwasher. As the wash cycle nears its end, the valve core 21 switches to the closed position to prevent residual water from the external water path from flowing back into the dishwasher. Each cycle only requires two brief power-on cycles, once at the start and once at the end, significantly reducing power consumption and allowing more energy to be used to improve washing efficiency. Furthermore, due to the low operating frequency of the check valve assembly 20, its durability is high, reducing wear and tear and malfunctions caused by frequent operation.

[0109] refer to Figure 3 , Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, the valve body mounting seat 10 is disposed on the outer wall of the water cup 50. One end of the valve body mounting seat 10 forms a drain inlet 11 that communicates with the inside of the water cup 50, and the other end of the valve body mounting seat 10 forms a water outlet 12. The valve body mounting seat 10 has a flow guiding cavity 13 inside, which is connected between the drain inlet 11 and the water outlet 12. The flow guiding cavity 13 forms a valve cavity 131 near the water outlet 12, and the water flow in the flow guiding cavity 13 reaches the water inlet channel of the check valve assembly 20.

[0110] In one possible implementation method, refer to Figure 2 As shown, the drainage structure also includes a foreign object baffle 16 disposed at the drainage inlet 11. The drainage inlet 11 is the water inlet end of the valve body mounting seat 10. The foreign object baffle 16 disposed at the drainage inlet 11 can prevent large contaminants that accidentally reach the drainage inlet 11 from entering the valve body mounting seat 10.

[0111] In one possible implementation method, refer to Figure 4 and Figure 5As shown, the inner wall of the first end of the valve cavity 131 has a first limiting boss 14, and the sealing structure includes a first sealing element 41, which abuts against the first limiting boss 14 and the valve core 21. The first limiting boss 14 has a certain shielding and protection effect on the first sealing element 41, which can reduce the contact of pollutants in the water flow with the first sealing element 41.

[0112] In one possible implementation, the inner wall of the second end of the valve cavity 131 has a second limiting boss 311, and the sealing structure includes a second sealing element 42, which abuts against the second limiting boss 311 and the valve core 21. The second limiting boss 311 provides a certain degree of shielding and protection for the second sealing element 42, reducing the contact of contaminants in the water flow with the second sealing element 42.

[0113] refer to Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, along the extending direction of the guide cavity 13, the first end and the second end of the valve cavity 131 are the opposite ends of the valve cavity 131. The first limiting boss 14 and the second limiting boss 311 are not only used to limit the position of the sealing structure, but also to restrict the axial movement of the valve core 21, ensuring that the valve core 21 remains in the correct position when it is working.

[0114] In one possible implementation, the sealing structure includes a first seal 41 and a second seal 42, wherein the first seal 41 is disposed between the first limiting boss 14 and the valve core 21; and the second seal 42 is disposed between the second limiting boss 311 and the valve core 21. The sealing structure provides a good sealing effect, preventing fluid leakage from both ends of the valve core 21, maintaining good sealing performance during long-term use, reducing leakage problems, and improving reliability and durability.

[0115] In one possible implementation, both the first seal 41 and the second seal 42 are sealing rings, such as rubber rings or silicone rings. The first seal 41 and the second seal 42 achieve bidirectional sealing of the check valve assembly 20, allowing fluid to be pressurized from either direction without affecting the sealing performance of the check valve assembly 20.

[0116] In one possible implementation, both the first seal 41 and the second seal 42 are sealing rings, and the centerlines of both the first seal 41 and the second seal 42 form an angle β with the central axis L2 of the valve core 21, where 85° ≤ β ≤ 95°. β can be, for example, 85°, 87°, 90°, 92°, or 95°. In this example, reference... Figure 7 As shown, the center line of the first seal and the center line L3 of the second seal, that is, the center line passing through the center of the first seal 41 and the center line passing through the center of the second seal 42, coincide with each other.

[0117] In one possible implementation, both the first seal 41 and the second seal 42 are circular sealing rings.

[0118] In one possible implementation, β is 90°, meaning that the centerlines of both the first seal 41 and the second seal 42 are perpendicular to the axis of rotation of the valve core 21. This vertical sealing design better adapts to pressure changes, ensuring sealing performance under high or low pressure conditions, and reduces lateral stress on the first seal 41 and the second seal 42 during valve core 21 rotation, thereby reducing wear.

[0119] The first limiting boss 14 and the valve core 21 exert a certain compressive force on the first seal 41, keeping the first seal 41 elastically compressed. This fills the gap between the first limiting boss 14 and the valve core 21, effectively preventing fluid leakage. The second limiting boss 311 and the valve core 21 exert a certain compressive force on the second seal 42, causing the second seal 42 to form a tight contact between the second limiting boss 311 and the valve core 21, filling all possible gaps and effectively preventing fluid leakage.

[0120] In one possible implementation method, refer to Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, the drainage assembly 30 includes a mounting housing 31 and a drainage pump 32. A drainage chamber 314 is formed within the mounting housing 31. One end of the mounting housing 31 has a connecting pipe head 312 connected to the water outlet 12. A second limiting boss 311 is located on the inner wall surface of the connecting pipe head 312. The other end of the mounting housing 31 forms a drainage outlet 313 communicating with the drainage chamber 314. The drainage pump 32 is disposed within the mounting housing 31 to provide power for drainage, causing water in the water cup 50 to be discharged from the drainage outlet 313.

[0121] In one possible implementation, the connecting pipe head 312 extends into the water outlet port 12. The connecting pipe head 312 can be connected to the water outlet port 12 by a threaded connection or by an interference fit, thus achieving the interconnection between the mounting housing 31 and the valve body mounting seat 10. The connection of the connecting pipe head 312 to the water outlet port 12 facilitates the removal of the connecting pipe head 312 from the water outlet port 12, enabling the installation and maintenance of the valve core 21.

[0122] The second limiting boss 311 is located on the inner wall surface of the connecting pipe head 312. The other end of the mounting shell 31 forms a drain outlet 313 that communicates with the drain cavity 314. The first limiting boss 14 can be connected to the inner wall surface of the valve body mounting seat 10. The valve cavity 131 is defined between the first limiting boss 14 and the second limiting boss 311.

[0123] In one possible implementation, the valve core 21 has a valve hole 211 extending through both ends of the valve core 21, and the valve core 21 switches between an open position where the valve hole 211 communicates with the flow guide cavity 13, and a closed position where the valve hole 211 blocks the flow guide cavity 13.

[0124] In one possible implementation, the axial direction of the valve port 211 forms an angle α with respect to the central axis L2 of the valve core 21's rotation, where 85° ≤ α ≤ 95°. α can be 85°, 87°, 90°, 92°, or 95°. (See reference) Figure 5 As shown in this example, the axial indicator line L1 of the valve hole and the central axis L2 of the valve core rotation are shown. The axial direction of the valve hole 211 is referenced to the extension direction of the axial indicator line L1 of the valve hole 211, and the valve core 21 rotates around the central axis L2.

[0125] In one possible implementation, α equals 90°, meaning that the extension direction of the valve orifice 211 is perpendicular to the central axis of rotation of the valve core 21. Therefore, when switching from the open position to the closed position, the valve core 21 rotates by an angle of 90°; when switching from the closed position to the open position, the valve core 21 also rotates by an angle of 90°.

[0126] refer to Figure 4 and Figure 5 The diagram shows the open position of valve core 21 when valve hole 211 communicates with guide cavity 13. (Reference) Figure 6 and Figure 7 The diagram shows the closed position of valve core 21 when valve hole 211 is blocked from flow guide cavity 13.

[0127] refer to Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, when the valve core 21 is rotated to the open position where the valve hole 211 communicates with the guide cavity 13, the water flowing into the guide cavity 13 can flow into the outlet port 12 through the valve hole 211. When the valve core 21 is rotated to the closed position where the valve hole 211 blocks the flow into the guide cavity 13, the water flowing into the guide cavity 13 cannot flow into the outlet port 12 through the valve core 21, and the water in the mounting housing 31 also cannot flow into the guide cavity 13 through the valve core 21.

[0128] In one possible implementation method, refer to Figure 4 , Figure 5 and Figure 8 As shown, the check valve assembly 20 also includes: a drive component 22, a positioning shaft 23, and a detection unit 24. The drive component 22 is disposed on the outer wall of the valve body mounting base 10 and has an output shaft 221. One end of the positioning shaft 23 is connected to the output shaft 221, and the other end of the positioning shaft 23 is connected to the valve core 21 to drive the valve core 21 to rotate. The detection unit 24 is used to detect the rotation angle of the valve core 21.

[0129] The detection unit 24 helps to achieve precise angle control of the valve core 21, ensuring that the valve core 21 is in the correct position. This is very important for precise control of fluid flow. It can also help identify abnormalities in the rotation of the valve core 21, such as jamming or failure to reach the expected position, so as to perform timely fault diagnosis and maintenance.

[0130] In one possible implementation, the drive element 22 can be, for example, a motor. The drive element 22 drives the positioning shaft 23 to rotate, and the positioning shaft 23 drives the valve core 21 to rotate, thus transmitting the power of the drive element 22 to the valve core 21 and achieving precise control of the rotation angle of the valve core 21. This structure, which transmits the power of the drive element 22 to the valve core 21 through the output shaft 221, is relatively compact, saves space, and also helps to reduce the complexity of the structure and manufacturing costs.

[0131] In one possible implementation, the drive element 22 is disposed on the outer wall of the valve body mounting base 10 for easy maintenance and replacement. The drive element 22 may be mounted on the outer wall of the valve body mounting base 10 by fasteners such as screws or bolts.

[0132] In one possible implementation method, refer to Figure 4 , Figure 5 and Figure 8 As shown, one end of the positioning shaft 23 has a mounting hole 231, and the output shaft 221 extends into the mounting hole 231 and is connected to the mounting hole 231 by a key, thus realizing the connection between the valve core 21 and the output shaft 221; the other end of the positioning shaft 23 has a fixing shaft 232, and the outer wall surface of the valve core 21 has a fixing hole. The fixing shaft 232 extends into the fixing hole and is connected to the fixing hole by a key, thus realizing the connection between the valve core 21 and the positioning shaft 23, ensuring the effective transmission of power.

[0133] In one possible implementation, the detection unit 24 includes a function switch 241, a first protrusion 242 and a second protrusion 243. The function switch 241 has a button 2411. The first protrusion 242 and the second protrusion 243 are spaced apart from each other on the outer peripheral surface of the positioning shaft 23 along the circumferential direction of the positioning shaft 23.

[0134] In one possible implementation, the first protrusion 242 and the second protrusion 243 may be integrally connected to the positioning shaft 23. The number of second protrusions 243 may be one, two, or three, with an angle of 90° between any two adjacent second protrusions 243 and an angle of 90° between the first protrusion 242 and an adjacent second protrusion 243.

[0135] In one possible implementation, both the function switch 241 and the drive unit 22 are electrically connected to the dishwasher's control system. This mechanical triggering of the function switch 241 via the first protrusion 242 and the second protrusion 243 enables the detection of the position of the valve core 21 and feeds the information back to the control system. The control system then controls the operation of the drive unit 22 based on the position of the valve core 21.

[0136] Whenever the positioning shaft 23 rotates to a certain angle, the first protrusion 242 or the second protrusion 243 will touch the button 2411, triggering the function switch 241 to perform angle detection.

[0137] In one possible implementation method, refer to Figure 8 As shown, with the center of the positioning shaft 23 as the center, the center angle corresponding to the first protrusion 242 is different from that corresponding to the second protrusion 243. The different center angles mean that the first protrusion 242 and the second protrusion 243 touch the button 2411 for different durations. This difference in duration can be used to determine the initial position of the valve core 21, facilitating confirmation of the initial position of the valve core 21 during startup and ensuring the accuracy and reliability of subsequent operations. This mechanical contact-based detection method is relatively simple and reliable, and does not rely on complex electronic sensors.

[0138] In one possible implementation, with the center of the positioning shaft 23 as the center, the center angle corresponding to the first protrusion 242 is greater than the center angle corresponding to the second protrusion 243.

[0139] refer to Figure 4 , Figure 5 and Figure 8 As shown, when the positioning shaft 23 rotates to the point where the first protrusion 242 leaves the button 2411, the valve core 21 is in the open position where the valve hole 211 communicates with the guide cavity 13.

[0140] refer to Figure 6 , Figure 7 and Figure 9 As shown, when the positioning shaft 23 rotates to the point where the second protrusion 243 leaves the button 2411, the valve core 21 is in either the closed position where the valve hole 211 blocks the flow guide cavity 13, or the open position where the valve hole 211 communicates with the flow guide cavity 13. The position of the valve core 21 is detected by utilizing the change in the rotation angle of the positioning shaft 23, making the detection more reliable and stable.

[0141] The driving component 22 drives the positioning shaft 23, which in turn drives the valve core 21 to rotate, providing opening and closing functions. At the same time, the positioning shaft 23 cooperates with the function switch 241 to identify the position of the valve core 21 by triggering the on / off state of the function switch 241.

[0142] In one possible implementation, there is one first protrusion 242 and three second protrusions 243. The first protrusion 242 and the three second protrusions 243 are distributed circumferentially along the positioning shaft 23 at 90° intervals. When the positioning shaft 23 rotates to the angle where the first protrusion 242 or the second protrusion 243 contacts the button 2411 of the function switch 241, the button 2411 is pressed. The moment the first protrusion 242 or the second protrusion 243 completely passes through the function switch 241, the button 2411 of the function switch 241 is released. The dishwasher control system receives the signal that the function switch 241 has been released, causing the drive unit 22 to stop working immediately and the output shaft 221 to stop rotating.

[0143] The rotational speed of the output shaft 221 is fixed. Therefore, during the operation of the drive component 22, the duration for which the first protrusion 242 or the second protrusion 243 presses the button 2411 of the function switch 241 is different. The dishwasher control system determines the open or closed state of the valve core 21 by recognizing the duration for which the button 2411 of the function switch 241 is pressed.

[0144] The moment the first protrusion 242 leaves the button 2411 of the function switch 241 is the initial position of the dishwasher at the start of each program. When the program starts, the output shaft 221 of the drive unit 22 rotates until it finds the initial position at the start of each program and then stops rotating. In this state, the valve core 21 rotates to the open position, that is, the valve core 21 is in a smooth state where water can flow smoothly through the valve hole 211. Before the last drainage program ends, the output shaft 221 of the drive unit 22 rotates again. The moment the first second protrusion 243 leaves the button 2411 of the function switch 241, the output shaft 221 of the drive unit 22 stops rotating. In this state, the valve core 21 rotates to the closed position, that is, the valve core 21 is in a closed state where water cannot flow smoothly through the valve hole 211, effectively preventing residual water from the external water circuit from flowing back into the dishwasher.

[0145] In other possible implementations, the detection unit 24 may also include an angle sensor to detect the angle of rotation of the positioning shaft 23, thereby detecting the position of the valve core 21.

[0146] In one possible implementation method, refer to Figure 6 , Figure 10 and Figure 11 As shown, the water cup 50 has a water outlet 52 for supplying water from the water cup 50 to the check valve assembly 20. The lowest point of the inner wall of the drain inlet 11 is lower than or flush with the lowest point of the water outlet 52. That is, the lowest point of the inner wall of the drain inlet 11 can be lower than the lowest point of the water outlet 52, or the lowest point of the inner wall of the drain inlet 11 can be flush with the lowest point of the water outlet 52.

[0147] Water from the water cup 50 flows into the outlet of the valve body mounting base 10 through the outlet 52. The lowest point of the inner wall of the drain inlet 11 is lower than or flush with the lowest point of the outlet 52, ensuring that the water flowing into the water cup 50 can smoothly enter the guide cavity 13 formed inside the valve body mounting base 10 through the drain inlet 11, thus solving the problem of sewage residue in the water cup 50.

[0148] In one possible implementation method, refer to Figure 10 and Figure 11 As shown, the lowest point of the inner wall of the flow guide cavity 13 is lower than or flush with the lowest point of the drain inlet 11. That is, the lowest point of the inner wall of the flow guide cavity 13 can be lower than the lowest point of the drain inlet 11 or at the same height as the lowest point of the drain inlet 11. This is so that the water in the water cup 50 can smoothly enter the flow guide cavity 13 through the drain inlet 11, thus solving the problem of sewage residue in the water cup 50.

[0149] In one possible implementation, the lowest point of the inner wall of the valve orifice 211 is lower than or flush with the lowest point of the inner wall of the guide cavity 13. That is, the lowest point of the inner wall of the valve orifice 211 can be lower than the lowest point of the inner wall of the guide cavity 13, or at the same height as the lowest point of the inner wall of the guide cavity 13. This helps the water in the guide cavity 13 to enter the valve orifice 211 when the valve core 21 is rotated to the open position, ensuring smooth drainage, effectively solving the problem of sewage residue in the guide cavity 13, and avoiding the problem of residual sewage breeding bacteria and causing pollution, odor and other issues.

[0150] In one possible implementation, the lowest point of the inner wall of the drain chamber 314 is lower than or flush with the lowest point of the inner wall of the valve hole 211. That is, the lowest point of the inner wall of the valve hole 211 can be lower than the lowest point of the inner wall of the guide chamber 13, or at the same height as the lowest point of the inner wall of the guide chamber 13, thereby effectively preventing water from flowing back into the water cup 50 during the drainage process, ensuring the smoothness of the drainage process, improving the drainage efficiency of the dishwasher, and enabling the dishwasher to achieve a zero residual water effect.

[0151] In one possible implementation, the inner diameter of the valve orifice 211 matches the inner diameter of the guide cavity 13. This ensures that the water flow from the guide cavity 13 to the valve orifice 211 moves at a consistent speed, reducing losses.

[0152] In one possible implementation method, refer to Figure 6 and Figure 7 As shown, a third seal 43 is provided between the connecting pipe head 312 and the inner wall surface of the water outlet 12. The third seal 43 is used to fill the gap between the connecting pipe head 312 and the inner wall surface of the water outlet 12, providing a reliable seal to prevent leakage at the connection position between the connecting pipe head 312 of the mounting housing 31 and the valve body mounting seat 10, and also to prevent external contaminants from entering.

[0153] In one possible implementation, the third seal 43 is a sealing ring, such as a rubber ring or a silicone ring.

[0154] In one possible implementation, a clearance hole 15 is provided in the valve body mounting base 10. One end of the positioning shaft 23 is connected to the valve core 21 through the clearance hole 15. A fourth seal 44 is provided between the positioning shaft 23 and the inner wall of the clearance hole 15. The fourth seal 44 allows the positioning shaft 23 to maintain a seal with the inner wall of the clearance hole 15 during rotation, which can reduce friction and wear between the positioning shaft 23 and the inner wall of the clearance hole 15, thereby extending the service life of the positioning shaft 23.

[0155] In one possible implementation, the fourth seal 44 is a sealing ring, such as a rubber ring or a silicone ring.

[0156] In one possible implementation method, refer to Figure 10 As shown, the water cup 50 has a water outlet 52, and the valve body mounting seat 10 is connected to the water outlet 52 of the water cup 50. A fifth sealing element 45 is provided between the valve body mounting seat 10 and the water outlet 52 of the water cup 50 to prevent water leakage from the water cup 50 and the valve body mounting seat 10. The fifth sealing element 45 can be a sealing ring.

[0157] In one possible implementation method, refer to Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, a control box 25 is provided on the outer wall of the valve body mounting base 10. The control box 25 includes a cover and a body, which are interlocked. The control box 25 has a receiving cavity 251 inside, and a function switch 241 is fixed in the receiving cavity 251. The function switch 241 has a button 2411. The positioning shaft 23 passes through the clearance hole 15 between the control box 25 and the valve body mounting base 10, and is inserted into the valve core 21. The driving component 22 drives the positioning shaft 23 to rotate the valve core 21, providing the valve core 21 with opening and closing functions. At the same time, the positioning shaft 23 and the function switch 241 cooperate to identify the position of the valve core 21 by triggering the micro switch of the function switch 241.

[0158] This application also provides a dishwasher, including the drainage structure described above. Other structures of the dishwasher are similar to those in existing designs and will not be described in detail here.

[0159] In one possible implementation method, refer to Figure 1 and Figure 3 As shown, the dishwasher also includes an inner tank 70, and a water cup 50 is located at the bottom of the inner tank 70. During the drainage process, water flows from the inner tank 70 into the water cup 50 under the action of the drain pump 32 and gravity. The water first passes through the check valve assembly 20 and is discharged from the dishwasher under the action of the drain assembly 30.

[0160] In one possible implementation, the dishwasher also includes a base 80 that supports the inner tub 70.

[0161] In one possible implementation method, refer to Figure 4 , Figure 12 and Figure 13 As shown, the dishwasher also includes a breather 60, which can be installed on the side wall of the inner tub 70. The drain outlet 313 of the drain assembly 30 is connected to the inlet of the breather 60 through a connecting pipe 33. The outlet of the breather 60 is connected to a drain pipe 61. Under the force of the drain assembly 30, the water discharged from the drain outlet 313 passes through the breather 60 and is then discharged from the drain pipe 61.

[0162] In this application, the drain assembly 30 is not directly connected to the drain pipe 61, but is drained through the breather 60. The purpose of this design is to use the breather 60 to raise the water level of the drain, thereby preventing accidental leakage of washing water when the valve core 21 of the check valve assembly 20 is in the open position. In this way, even if the check valve assembly 20 is kept unobstructed, the dishwasher can effectively prevent water from flowing out.

[0163] In actual operation, the valve core 21 of the check valve assembly 20 only needs to switch to the open position at the beginning of each washing program to ensure unobstructed water flow. Then, as the program is about to end, the valve core 21 of the check valve assembly 20 rotates to the closed position to prevent residual water in the external water circuit from flowing back into the dishwasher. The advantage of this design is that the check valve assembly 20 only needs to be briefly powered twice during the entire washing process, significantly reducing power consumption. The breather 60 helps maintain pressure balance between the inside and outside of the dishwasher. The main function of the breather 60 is to prevent wastewater from flowing back from the drainage system into the dishwasher, thus preventing contamination of the dishwasher's interior.

[0164] The water cup 50 has a water tank 51 inside, which is the lowest end of the dishwasher's internal water storage. The valve body mounting seat 10 is set on the outer wall of the water cup 50, so that the check valve assembly 20 is suspended and installed below the side of the water cup. The drain inlet 11 is at the bottom of the water tank 51.

[0165] During operation, water is stored inside the dishwasher. When draining, the valve core 21 of the check valve assembly 20 rotates to the open position. Under the action of the drain pump 32 and the gravity of the water flow, the water in the water cup 50 first enters the water tank 51. Then, the water flows from the drain inlet 11 into the guide chamber 13. The water in the guide chamber 13 can smoothly pass through the valve hole 211 opened in the valve core 21 into the drain chamber 314, and then enter the breather 60 from the connecting pipe 33. Finally, it is discharged from the dishwasher through the drain pipe 61 and enters the sewer.

[0166] The drainage system is a crucial component of a dishwasher, ensuring that dirty water is effectively drained after washing for the next cycle. Most current dishwashers use a top-drain system, which raises the water level inside the dishwasher during the wash cycle, ensuring dishes are thoroughly soaked and cleaned, thus improving cleaning results. However, residual water inside the raised drain pipe can flow back into the dishwasher, contaminating the internal environment.

[0167] In related technologies, dishwashers employ a pull-motor backflow prevention system to prevent water backflow and address the issue of residual water contamination. However, this design requires the pull motor to remain powered during drainage to ensure the check valve functions properly. This means that the motor needs to be powered on every time drainage occurs, leading to increased energy consumption. Furthermore, the pull motor typically contains a rubber stopper for sealing; however, over time, contaminants may accumulate around the rubber stopper, gradually causing the seal to fail and resulting in slow water leakage.

[0168] In view of this, the drainage structure and dishwasher provided by this utility model, by setting a check valve assembly, can prevent residual water from flowing back and contaminating the internal environment of the dishwasher. By setting a sealing structure between the valve core and the inner wall of the valve cavity, the valve core is designed as a ball. The structure of the ball makes the inside of the valve cavity less dead corner, making it less likely for dirt and impurities to accumulate. This avoids the problem of sealing failure caused by the accumulation of contaminants, avoids the possibility of leakage due to contaminants after long-term use, improves the stability of the sealing function, and more effectively prevents residual water from flowing back, thereby reducing the pollution of the internal environment of the dishwasher and improving hygiene.

[0169] The drainage structure and dishwasher provided in the embodiments of this utility model are described below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0170] refer to Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, this application provides a drainage structure disposed at the bottom of a water cup 50. The drainage structure includes: a valve body mounting seat 10, a check valve assembly 20, and a drainage assembly 30. The valve body mounting seat 10 is disposed on the outer side wall of the water cup 50. (Refer to...) Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, the valve body mounting base 10 forms a flow guide cavity 13 that communicates with the interior of the water cup 50, and the flow guide cavity 13 contains a valve cavity 131; the check valve assembly 20 is disposed on the valve body mounting base 10, and the check valve assembly 20 includes a valve core 21, which is rotatably disposed in the valve cavity 131 to block or connect the flow guide cavity 13. The valve core 21 is a ball, and a sealing structure is provided between the valve core 21 and the inner wall of the valve cavity 131; the drain assembly 30 is disposed on the valve body mounting base 10.

[0171] This application provides a drainage structure that includes a check valve assembly 20. The check valve assembly 20 includes a valve core 21, which is rotatably disposed within a valve cavity 131. This allows the check valve assembly 20 to open and close. During drainage, the valve core 21 rotates to the open position, and after drainage, it rotates to the closed position, preventing residual water from flowing back and contaminating the internal environment of the dishwasher. A sealing structure is provided between the valve core 21 and the inner wall of the valve cavity 131. The valve core 21 is designed as a sphere. The spherical structure minimizes dead corners inside the valve cavity 131, making it less prone to the accumulation of dirt and impurities. This avoids sealing failure due to contaminant buildup and prevents leakage after long-term use due to contaminants. This improves the stability of the sealing function, more effectively preventing residual water from flowing back, thereby reducing contamination of the dishwasher's internal environment and improving hygiene.

[0172] The valve core 21 of the check valve assembly 20 rotates and must not be obstructed by large contaminants; otherwise, it will jam and malfunction. (Refer to...) Figure 5 , Figure 8 and Figure 9 As shown, a filter assembly 53 is installed on the water cup 50, which can prevent larger contaminants from entering the guide cavity 13, effectively preventing physical damage or blockage caused by larger contaminants to the valve core 21 and the sealing structure. The valve core 21 rotates, keeping the sealing structure and the valve core 21 in a tight fit. Small contaminants that enter the guide cavity 13 with the water flow do not have the conditions to accumulate at the sealing structure, reducing the problem of seal failure and leakage caused by contaminant accumulation. Even after long-term use, the check valve assembly 20 can still maintain a good sealing effect, effectively preventing backflow and improving the stability of the sealing function.

[0173] At the start of each wash cycle, the valve core 21 of the check valve assembly 20 switches to the open position to keep the water path unobstructed, allowing water to flow smoothly into the dishwasher. As the wash cycle nears its end, the valve core 21 switches to the closed position to prevent residual water from the external water path from flowing back into the dishwasher. Each cycle only requires two brief power-on cycles, once at the start and once at the end, significantly reducing power consumption and allowing more energy to be used to improve washing efficiency. Furthermore, due to the low operating frequency of the check valve assembly 20, its durability is high, reducing wear and tear and malfunctions caused by frequent operation.

[0174] refer to Figure 3 , Figure 4 and Figure 5As shown, the valve body mounting seat 10 is disposed on the outer wall of the water cup 50. One end of the valve body mounting seat 10 forms a drain inlet 11 that communicates with the inside of the water cup 50, and the other end of the valve body mounting seat 10 forms a water outlet 12. The valve body mounting seat 10 has a flow guiding cavity 13 inside, which is connected between the drain inlet 11 and the water outlet 12. The flow guiding cavity 13 forms a valve cavity 131 near the water outlet 12, and the water flow in the flow guiding cavity 13 reaches the water inlet channel of the check valve assembly 20.

[0175] In one possible implementation method, refer to Figure 2 As shown, the drainage structure also includes a foreign object baffle 16. One end of the valve body mounting seat 10 forms a drainage inlet 11 that communicates with the inside of the water cup 50. The foreign object baffle 16 is disposed at the drainage inlet 11, which is the water inlet end of the valve body mounting seat 10. The foreign object baffle 16 is disposed at the drainage inlet 11 to prevent large contaminants that accidentally reach the drainage inlet 11 from entering the valve body mounting seat 10.

[0176] The foreign object baffle 16 can be fixedly connected to the drain inlet 11 by fasteners or by integral molding. The foreign object baffle 16 includes multiple baffles arranged side by side, thereby dividing the large drain inlet 11 into multiple smaller water passages and effectively blocking foreign objects.

[0177] In one possible implementation, the direction of extension of the foreign object baffle 16 is consistent with the direction of water flow through the drain inlet 11.

[0178] In one possible implementation, the foreign object baffle 16 has multiple filter meshes.

[0179] In one possible implementation method, refer to Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, along the extension direction of the flow guide cavity 13, the valve cavity 131 has a first limiting boss 14 and a second limiting boss 311 at opposite ends. The first limiting boss 14 and the second limiting boss 311 are not only used to fix the position of the sealing structure, but also to restrict the axial movement of the valve core 21, ensuring that the valve core 21 remains in the correct position when it is working.

[0180] In one possible implementation, the sealing structure includes a first seal 41 and a second seal 42, wherein the first seal 41 is disposed between the first limiting boss 14 and the valve core 21; and the second seal 42 is disposed between the second limiting boss 311 and the valve core 21. The sealing structure provides a good sealing effect, preventing fluid leakage from both ends of the valve core 21, maintaining good sealing performance during long-term use, reducing leakage problems, and improving reliability and durability.

[0181] In one possible implementation, both the first seal 41 and the second seal 42 are sealing rings, such as rubber rings or silicone rings. The first seal 41 and the second seal 42 achieve bidirectional sealing of the check valve assembly 20, allowing fluid to be pressurized from either direction without affecting the sealing performance of the check valve assembly 20.

[0182] The first limiting boss 14 provides a certain degree of shielding and protection for the first seal 41, which can reduce the contact of pollutants in the water flow with the first seal 41. The second limiting boss 311 provides a certain degree of shielding and protection for the second seal 42, which can reduce the contact of pollutants in the water flow with the second seal 42.

[0183] In one possible implementation, half the difference between the outer and inner diameters of the first seal 41 is consistent with the length of the first limiting boss 14 protruding from the inner wall of the valve cavity 131. This helps the first limiting boss 14 to completely cover one side of the first seal 41, reducing the contact between contaminants and the first seal 41 and preventing the first seal 41 from being affected by contaminants in terms of sealing performance.

[0184] In one possible implementation, half the difference between the outer and inner diameters of the second seal 42 is consistent with the length of the second limiting boss 311 protruding from the inner wall of the valve cavity 131. This helps the second limiting boss 311 to completely cover one side of the second seal 42, reducing the contact between contaminants and the second seal 42 and preventing the second seal 42 from being affected by contaminants in terms of sealing performance.

[0185] In one possible implementation, the rotation axis of the valve core 21 is perpendicular to the centerline of the first seal 41, and the rotation axis of the valve core 21 is perpendicular to the centerline of the second seal 42. This vertical sealing design better adapts to pressure changes, ensuring sealing performance under high or low pressure conditions, and reduces lateral stress on the first and second seals 41 and 42 during valve core 21 rotation, thereby reducing wear.

[0186] The first limiting boss 14 and the valve core 21 exert a certain compressive force on the first seal 41, keeping the first seal 41 elastically compressed. This fills the gap between the first limiting boss 14 and the valve core 21, effectively preventing fluid leakage. The second limiting boss 311 and the valve core 21 exert a certain compressive force on the second seal 42, causing the second seal 42 to form a tight contact between the second limiting boss 311 and the valve core 21, filling all possible gaps and effectively preventing fluid leakage.

[0187] In one possible implementation method, refer to Figure 4 and Figure 5As shown, the drainage assembly 30 includes a mounting housing 31 and a drainage pump 32. A drainage chamber 314 is formed within the mounting housing 31. One end of the mounting housing 31 has a connecting pipe head 312 extending into the water outlet 12, which is connected to the water outlet 12. A second limiting boss 311 is located on the inner wall surface of the connecting pipe head 312. The other end of the mounting housing 31 forms a drainage outlet 313 communicating with the drainage chamber 314. The drainage pump 32 is disposed within the mounting housing 31 to provide power for drainage, causing water in the water cup 50 to be discharged from the drainage outlet 313.

[0188] In one possible implementation, the connecting pipe head 312 can be connected to the water outlet port 12 by threaded engagement or by interference fit, thus achieving the interconnection between the mounting housing 31 and the valve body mounting seat 10. The connection of the connecting pipe head 312 to the water outlet port 12 facilitates the removal of the connecting pipe head 312 from the water outlet port 12, enabling the installation and maintenance of the valve core 21.

[0189] The second limiting boss 311 is located on the inner wall surface of the connecting pipe head 312. The other end of the mounting shell 31 forms a drain outlet 313 that communicates with the drain cavity 314. The first limiting boss 14 can be connected to the inner wall surface of the valve body mounting seat 10. The valve cavity 131 is defined between the first limiting boss 14 and the second limiting boss 311.

[0190] In one possible implementation, the valve core 21 has a valve hole 211 extending through both ends of the valve core 21. The valve core 21 switches between an open position where the valve hole 211 communicates with the flow guide cavity 13 and a closed position where the valve hole 211 blocks the flow guide cavity 13. The extension direction of the valve hole 211 is perpendicular to the central axis of rotation of the valve core 21. Therefore, when switching from the open position to the closed position, the valve core 21 rotates by an angle of 90°. When switching from the closed position to the open position, the valve core 21 also rotates by an angle of 90°.

[0191] refer to Figure 4 and Figure 5 The diagram shows the open position of valve core 21 when valve hole 211 communicates with guide cavity 13. (Reference) Figure 6 and Figure 7 The diagram shows the closed position of valve core 21 when valve hole 211 is blocked from flow guide cavity 13.

[0192] refer to Figure 4 and Figure 5As shown, when the valve core 21 is rotated to the open position where the valve hole 211 communicates with the guide cavity 13, the water flowing into the guide cavity 13 can flow into the outlet port 12 through the valve hole 211. When the valve core 21 is rotated to the closed position where the valve hole 211 blocks the flow into the guide cavity 13, the water flowing into the guide cavity 13 cannot flow into the outlet port 12 through the valve core 21, and the water in the mounting housing 31 also cannot flow into the guide cavity 13 through the valve core 21.

[0193] In one possible implementation method, refer to Figure 4 , Figure 5 and Figure 8 As shown, the check valve assembly 20 also includes: a drive component 22, a positioning shaft 23, and a detection unit 24. The drive component 22 is disposed on the outer wall of the valve body mounting base 10 and has an output shaft 221. One end of the positioning shaft 23 is connected to the output shaft 221, and the other end of the positioning shaft 23 is connected to the valve core 21 to drive the valve core 21 to rotate. The detection unit 24 is used to detect the rotation angle of the valve core 21.

[0194] The detection unit 24 helps to achieve precise angle control of the valve core 21, ensuring that the valve core 21 is in the correct position. This is very important for precise control of fluid flow. It can also help identify abnormalities in the rotation of the valve core 21, such as jamming or failure to reach the expected position, so as to perform timely fault diagnosis and maintenance.

[0195] In one possible implementation, the drive element 22 can be, for example, a motor. The drive element 22 drives the positioning shaft 23 to rotate, and the positioning shaft 23 drives the valve core 21 to rotate, thus transmitting the power of the drive element 22 to the valve core 21 and achieving precise control of the rotation angle of the valve core 21. This structure, which transmits the power of the drive element 22 to the valve core 21 through the output shaft 221, is relatively compact, saves space, and also helps to reduce the complexity of the structure and manufacturing costs.

[0196] In one possible implementation, the drive element 22 is disposed on the outer wall of the valve body mounting base 10 for easy maintenance and replacement. The drive element 22 may be mounted on the outer wall of the valve body mounting base 10 by fasteners such as screws or bolts.

[0197] In one possible implementation method, refer to Figure 4 , Figure 5 and Figure 8As shown, one end of the positioning shaft 23 has a mounting hole 231, and the output shaft 221 extends into the mounting hole 231 and is connected to the mounting hole 231 by a key, thus realizing the connection between the valve core 21 and the output shaft 221; the other end of the positioning shaft 23 has a fixing shaft 232, and the outer wall surface of the valve core 21 has a fixing hole. The fixing shaft 232 extends into the fixing hole and is connected to the fixing hole by a key, thus realizing the connection between the valve core 21 and the positioning shaft 23, ensuring the effective transmission of power.

[0198] In one possible implementation, the detection unit 24 includes a function switch 241, a first protrusion 242 and a second protrusion 243. The function switch 241 has a button 2411. The first protrusion 242 and the second protrusion 243 are spaced apart from each other on the outer peripheral surface of the positioning shaft 23 along the circumferential direction of the positioning shaft 23.

[0199] In one possible implementation, the first protrusion 242 and the second protrusion 243 may be integrally connected to the positioning shaft 23. The number of the second protrusions 243 may be one, two, or three, and the angle between any two adjacent second protrusions 243 is 90°.

[0200] In one possible implementation, both the function switch 241 and the drive unit 22 are electrically connected to the dishwasher's control system. This mechanical triggering of the function switch 241 via the first protrusion 242 and the second protrusion 243 enables the detection of the position of the valve core 21 and feeds the information back to the control system. The control system then controls the operation of the drive unit 22 based on the position of the valve core 21.

[0201] Whenever the positioning shaft 23 rotates to a certain angle, the first protrusion 242 or the second protrusion 243 will touch the button 2411, triggering the function switch 241 to perform angle detection.

[0202] In one possible implementation method, refer to Figure 8 As shown, with the center of the positioning shaft 23 as the center, the center angle corresponding to the first protrusion 242 is different from that corresponding to the second protrusion 243. The different center angles mean that the first protrusion 242 and the second protrusion 243 touch the button 2411 for different durations. This difference in duration can be used to determine the initial position of the valve core 21, facilitating confirmation of the initial position of the valve core 21 during startup and ensuring the accuracy and reliability of subsequent operations. This mechanical contact-based detection method is relatively simple and reliable, and does not rely on complex electronic sensors.

[0203] In one possible implementation, with the center of the positioning shaft 23 as the center, the center angle corresponding to the first protrusion 242 is greater than the center angle corresponding to the second protrusion 243.

[0204] refer to Figure 4 , Figure 5 and Figure 8 As shown, when the positioning shaft 23 rotates to the point where the first protrusion 242 leaves the button 2411, the valve core 21 is in the open position where the valve hole 211 communicates with the guide cavity 13; Reference Figure 6 , Figure 7 and Figure 9 As shown, when the positioning shaft 23 rotates to the point where the second protrusion 243 leaves the button 2411, the valve core 21 rotates to the closed position where the valve hole 211 blocks the flow guide cavity 13. The position of the valve core 21 is detected by utilizing the change in the rotation angle of the positioning shaft 23, making the detection more reliable and stable.

[0205] The driving component 22 drives the positioning shaft 23, which in turn drives the valve core 21 to rotate, providing opening and closing functions. At the same time, the positioning shaft 23 cooperates with the function switch 241 to identify the position of the valve core 21 by triggering the on / off state of the function switch 241.

[0206] In one possible implementation, there is one first protrusion 242 and three second protrusions 243. The first protrusion 242 and the three second protrusions 243 are distributed circumferentially along the positioning shaft 23 at 90° intervals. When the positioning shaft 23 rotates to the angle where the first protrusion 242 or the second protrusion 243 contacts the button 2411 of the function switch 241, the button 2411 is pressed. The moment the first protrusion 242 or the second protrusion 243 completely passes through the function switch 241, the button 2411 of the function switch 241 is released. The dishwasher control system receives the signal that the function switch 241 has been released, causing the drive unit 22 to stop working immediately and the output shaft 221 to stop rotating.

[0207] The rotational speed of the output shaft 221 is fixed. Therefore, during the operation of the drive component 22, the duration for which the first protrusion 242 or the second protrusion 243 presses the button 2411 of the function switch 241 is different. The dishwasher control system determines the open or closed state of the valve core 21 by recognizing the duration for which the button 2411 of the function switch 241 is pressed.

[0208] The moment the first protrusion 242 leaves the button 2411 of the function switch 241 is the initial position of the dishwasher at the start of each program. When the program starts, the output shaft 221 of the drive unit 22 rotates until it finds the initial position and then stops rotating. In this state, the valve core 21 rotates to the open position, that is, the valve core 21 is in a smooth state where water can flow smoothly through the valve hole 211. Before the last drainage program ends, the output shaft 221 of the drive unit 22 rotates again. The moment the first second protrusion 243 leaves the button 2411 of the function switch 241, the output shaft 221 of the drive unit 22 stops rotating. In this state, the valve core 21 rotates to the closed position, that is, the valve core 21 is in a closed state where water cannot flow smoothly through the valve hole 211, effectively preventing residual water from the external water circuit from flowing back into the dishwasher.

[0209] In other possible implementations, the detection unit 24 may also include an angle sensor to detect the angle of rotation of the positioning shaft 23, thereby detecting the position of the valve core 21.

[0210] In one possible implementation method, refer to Figure 10 and Figure 11 As shown, the lowest end of the inner wall of the flow guide cavity 13 is lower than or flush with the lowest end of the drain inlet 11. That is, the lowest end of the inner wall of the flow guide cavity 13 can be lower than the lowest end of the drain inlet 11 or at the same height as the lowest end of the drain inlet 11. This is so that the water flow in the water cup 50 can smoothly enter the flow guide cavity 13 through the drain inlet 11.

[0211] In one possible implementation, the lowest point of the inner wall of the valve orifice 211 is lower than or flush with the lowest point of the inner wall of the guide cavity 13. That is, the lowest point of the inner wall of the valve orifice 211 can be lower than the lowest point of the inner wall of the guide cavity 13, or at the same height as the lowest point of the inner wall of the guide cavity 13. This helps the water in the guide cavity 13 to enter the valve orifice 211 when the valve core 21 is rotated to the open position, ensuring smooth drainage.

[0212] In one possible implementation, the lowest point of the inner wall of the drain chamber 314 is lower than or flush with the lowest point of the inner wall of the valve hole 211. That is, the lowest point of the inner wall of the valve hole 211 can be lower than the lowest point of the inner wall of the guide chamber 13, or at the same height as the lowest point of the inner wall of the guide chamber 13, thereby effectively preventing water from flowing back into the water cup 50 during the drainage process, ensuring the smoothness of the drainage process, improving the drainage efficiency of the dishwasher, and enabling the dishwasher to achieve a zero residual water effect.

[0213] In one possible implementation method, refer to Figure 6 and Figure 7As shown, a third seal 43 is provided between the connecting pipe head 312 and the inner wall surface of the water outlet 12. The third seal 43 is used to fill the gap between the connecting pipe head 312 and the inner wall surface of the water outlet 12, providing a reliable seal to prevent leakage at the connection position between the connecting pipe head 312 of the mounting housing 31 and the valve body mounting seat 10, and also to prevent external contaminants from entering.

[0214] In one possible implementation, the third seal 43 is a sealing ring, such as a rubber ring or a silicone ring.

[0215] In one possible implementation, a clearance hole 15 is provided in the valve body mounting base 10. One end of the positioning shaft 23 is connected to the valve core 21 through the clearance hole 15. A fourth seal 44 is provided between the positioning shaft 23 and the inner wall of the clearance hole 15. The fourth seal 44 allows the positioning shaft 23 to maintain a seal with the inner wall of the clearance hole 15 during rotation, which can reduce friction and wear between the positioning shaft 23 and the inner wall of the clearance hole 15, thereby extending the service life of the positioning shaft 23.

[0216] In one possible implementation, the fourth seal 44 is a sealing ring, such as a rubber ring or a silicone ring.

[0217] In one possible implementation method, refer to Figure 10 As shown, the water cup 50 has a water outlet 52, and the valve body mounting seat 10 is connected to the water outlet 52 of the water cup 50. A fifth sealing element 45 is provided between the valve body mounting seat 10 and the water outlet 52 of the water cup 50 to prevent water leakage from the water cup 50 and the valve body mounting seat 10. The fifth sealing element 45 can be a sealing ring.

[0218] In one possible implementation method, refer to Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, a control box 25 is provided on the outer wall of the valve body mounting base 10. The control box 25 includes a cover and a body, which are interlocked. The control box 25 has a receiving cavity 251 inside, and a function switch 241 is fixed in the receiving cavity 251. The function switch 241 has a button 2411. The positioning shaft 23 passes through the clearance hole 15 between the control box 25 and the valve body mounting base 10, and is inserted into the valve core 21. The driving component 22 drives the positioning shaft 23 to rotate the valve core 21, providing the valve core 21 with opening and closing functions. At the same time, the positioning shaft 23 and the function switch 241 cooperate to identify the position of the valve core 21 by triggering the micro switch of the function switch 241.

[0219] This application also provides a dishwasher, including the drainage structure described above. Other structures of the dishwasher are similar to those in existing designs and will not be described in detail here.

[0220] In one possible implementation method, refer to Figure 1and Figure 3 As shown, the dishwasher also includes an inner tank 70, and a water cup 50 is located at the bottom of the inner tank 70. During the drainage process, water flows from the inner tank 70 into the water cup 50 under the action of the drain pump 32 and gravity. The water first passes through the check valve assembly 20 and is discharged from the dishwasher under the action of the drain assembly 30.

[0221] In one possible implementation, the dishwasher also includes a base 80 that supports the inner tub 70.

[0222] In one possible implementation method, refer to Figure 4 , Figure 12 and Figure 13 As shown, the dishwasher also includes a breather 60, which can be installed on the side wall of the inner tub 70. The drain outlet 313 of the drain assembly 30 is connected to the inlet of the breather 60 through a connecting pipe 33. The outlet of the breather 60 is connected to a drain pipe 61. Under the force of the drain assembly 30, the water discharged from the drain outlet 313 passes through the breather 60 and is then discharged from the drain pipe 61.

[0223] In this application, the drain assembly 30 is not directly connected to the drain pipe 61, but is drained through the breather 60. The purpose of this design is to use the breather 60 to raise the water level of the drain, thereby preventing accidental leakage of washing water when the valve core 21 of the check valve assembly 20 is in the open position. In this way, even if the check valve assembly 20 is kept unobstructed, the dishwasher can effectively prevent water from flowing out.

[0224] In actual operation, the valve core 21 of the check valve assembly 20 only needs to switch to the open position at the beginning of each washing program to ensure unobstructed water flow. Then, as the program is about to end, the valve core 21 of the check valve assembly 20 rotates to the closed position to prevent residual water in the external water circuit from flowing back into the dishwasher. The advantage of this design is that the check valve assembly 20 only needs to be briefly powered twice during the entire washing process, significantly reducing power consumption. The breather 60 helps maintain pressure balance between the inside and outside of the dishwasher. The main function of the breather 60 is to prevent wastewater from flowing back from the drainage system into the dishwasher, thus preventing contamination of the dishwasher's interior.

[0225] The water cup 50 has a water tank 51 inside, which is the lowest end of the dishwasher's internal water storage. The valve body mounting seat 10 is set on the outer wall of the water cup 50, so that the check valve assembly 20 is suspended and installed below the side of the water cup. The drain inlet 11 is at the bottom of the water tank 51.

[0226] In one possible implementation, the lowest point of the drain inlet 11 is lower than or level with the lowest point of the outlet 52 of the water cup 50, that is, the lowest point of the drain inlet 11 is lower than the lowest point of the outlet 52 of the water cup 50, or the lowest point of the drain inlet 11 is level with the lowest point of the outlet 52 of the water cup 50.

[0227] During operation, water is stored inside the dishwasher. When draining, the valve core 21 of the check valve assembly 20 rotates to the open position. Under the action of the drain pump 32 and the gravity of the water flow, the water in the water cup 50 first enters the water tank 51. Then, the water flows from the drain inlet 11 into the guide chamber 13. The water in the guide chamber 13 can smoothly pass through the valve hole 211 opened in the valve core 21 into the drain chamber 314, and then enter the breather 60 from the connecting pipe 33. Finally, it is discharged from the dishwasher through the drain pipe 61 and enters the sewer.

[0228] In the description of this utility model, it should be understood that the terms "center", "length", "width", "thickness", "top", "bottom", "upper", "lower", "left", "right", "front", "rear", "vertical", "horizontal", "inner", "outer", "axial", "circumferential", etc., used to indicate the orientation or positional relationship are based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings, and are only for the convenience of describing this utility model and simplifying the description, and are not intended to indicate or imply that the indicated position or component must have a specific orientation, or a specific structure and operation, and therefore should not be construed as a limitation of this utility model.

[0229] Furthermore, the terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of technical features indicated. Thus, a feature defined as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include one or more of that feature. In the description of this utility model, "a plurality of" means at least two, such as two, three, etc., unless otherwise explicitly specified.

[0230] In this utility model, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," "joining," and "fixing," etc., should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral part; they can refer to a mechanical connection, an electrical connection, or a connection that allows for communication; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; they can refer to the internal communication of two components or the interaction between two components. For those skilled in the art, the specific meaning of the above terms in this utility model can be understood according to the specific circumstances.

[0231] In this invention, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, "above" or "below" the second feature can include direct contact between the first and second features, or contact between the first and second features through another feature between them. Furthermore, "above," "over," and "on top" of the second feature includes the first feature directly above or diagonally above the second feature, or simply indicates that the first feature is at a higher horizontal level than the second feature. "Below," "below," and "under" the second feature includes the first feature directly below or diagonally below the second feature, or simply indicates that the first feature is at a lower horizontal level than the second feature.

[0232] Finally, it should be noted that the above embodiments are only used to illustrate the technical solutions of this utility model, and are not intended to limit it. Although the utility model has been described in detail with reference to the foregoing embodiments, those skilled in the art should understand that modifications can still be made to the technical solutions described in the foregoing embodiments, or equivalent substitutions can be made to some or all of the technical features therein. Such modifications or substitutions do not cause the essence of the corresponding technical solutions to deviate from the scope of the technical solutions of the embodiments of this utility model.

Claims

1. A drainage structure disposed at the bottom of a water cup (50), characterized in that, The drainage structure includes: Check valve assembly (20), the check valve assembly (20) includes valve body mounting seat (10) and valve core (21), the valve body mounting seat (10) is disposed on the outer side wall of the water cup (50), the valve body mounting seat (10) forms a flow guide cavity (13) communicating with the inside of the water cup (50), the flow guide cavity (13) has a valve cavity (131), the valve core (21) is rotatably disposed in the valve cavity (131) so that the check valve assembly (20) can be opened or closed, the valve core (21) is a ball, and a sealing structure is provided between the valve core (21) and the inner wall of the valve cavity (131); A drainage assembly (30) is disposed on the valve body mounting base (10).

2. The drainage structure according to claim 1, characterized in that, The inner wall of the first end of the valve cavity (131) has a first limiting boss (14), and the sealing structure includes a first sealing element (41), which abuts against the first limiting boss (14) and the valve core (21); and / or, The inner wall of the second end of the valve cavity (131) has a second limiting boss (311), and the sealing structure includes a second sealing element (42), which abuts between the second limiting boss (311) and the valve core (21).

3. The drainage structure according to claim 2, characterized in that, The valve core (21) has valve holes (211) that pass through both ends of the valve core (21), and the axial direction of the valve hole (211) has an angle α with the central axis of rotation of the valve core (21), 85°≤α≤95°; Both the first seal (41) and the second seal (42) are sealing rings. The center line of the first seal (41) and the center line of the second seal (42) are at an angle β with the central axis of rotation of the valve core (21), where 85°≤β≤95°.

4. The drainage structure according to claim 1, characterized in that, The check valve assembly (20) also includes: A drive member (22) is disposed on the outer wall of the valve body mounting seat (10), and the drive member (22) has an output shaft (221). A positioning shaft (23) is provided, one end of which is connected to the output shaft (221), and the other end of which is connected to the valve core (21) to drive the valve core (21) to rotate. The detection unit (24) is used to detect the rotation angle of the valve core (21).

5. The drainage structure according to claim 4, characterized in that, The detection unit (24) includes: A function switch (241) having a button (2411); A first protrusion (242) and a second protrusion (243) are provided on the outer peripheral surface of the positioning shaft (23) at intervals along the circumference of the positioning shaft (23). With the center of the positioning shaft (23) as the center, the center angle corresponding to the first protrusion (242) is different from the center angle corresponding to the second protrusion (243).

6. The drainage structure according to claim 5, characterized in that, With the center of the positioning shaft (23) as the center, the center angle corresponding to the first protrusion (242) is greater than the center angle corresponding to the second protrusion (243), and the valve core (21) has a valve hole (211) that passes through both ends of the valve core (21). When the positioning shaft (23) rotates to the point where the first protrusion (242) leaves the button (2411), the valve core (21) is in the open position where the valve hole (211) communicates with the flow guide cavity (13).

7. The drainage structure according to claim 2, characterized in that, The end of the valve body mounting base (10) away from the water cup (50) forms a water outlet (12), and the drainage assembly (30) includes: Mounting housing (31), a drainage cavity (314) is formed inside the mounting housing (31), one end of the mounting housing (31) has a connecting pipe head (312), the connecting pipe head (312) is connected to the water outlet (12), the second limiting boss (311) is located on the inner wall surface of the connecting pipe head (312), and the other end of the mounting housing (31) forms a drainage outlet (313) communicating with the drainage cavity (314). A drain pump (32) is disposed on the mounting housing (31) to discharge water in the water cup (50) from the drain outlet (313).

8. The drainage structure according to claim 1, characterized in that, The water cup (50) has a water outlet (52) for supplying water from the water cup (50) to the check valve assembly (20). One end of the valve body mounting base (10) forms a drain inlet (11) that communicates with the inside of the water cup (50). The valve core (21) has valve holes (211) that penetrate both ends of the valve core (21). The lowest point of the inner wall of the drain inlet (11) is lower than or flush with the lowest point of the outlet (52); and / or, The lowest point of the inner wall of the guide cavity (13) is lower than or flush with the lowest point of the drain inlet (11); and / or, The lowest point of the inner wall of the valve orifice (211) is lower than or flush with the lowest point of the inner wall of the guide cavity (13); and / or, The drainage assembly (30) includes a mounting housing (31) with a drainage cavity (314) formed inside the mounting housing (31). The lowest end of the inner wall of the drainage cavity (314) is lower than or flush with the lowest end of the inner wall of the valve hole (211).

9. The drainage structure according to claim 1, characterized in that, The drainage structure also includes a foreign object baffle (16), and one end of the valve body mounting seat (10) forms a drainage inlet (11) that communicates with the inside of the water cup (50). The foreign object baffle (16) is disposed at the drainage inlet (11).

10. The drainage structure according to claim 7, characterized in that, A third sealing element (43) is provided between the connecting pipe head (312) and the inner wall surface of the water outlet (12).

11. The drainage structure according to claim 4, characterized in that, The valve body mounting base (10) has an clearance hole (15) inside. One end of the positioning shaft (23) is connected to the valve core (21) through the clearance hole (15). A fourth sealing element (44) is provided between the positioning shaft (23) and the inner wall of the clearance hole (15).

12. A dishwasher, characterized in that, Includes the drainage structure described in any one of claims 1-11.

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