Laundry treating apparatus

Abstract

This invention discloses a garment processing device, comprising: a rotating drum capable of rotating about its axial direction; a drain outlet disposed at the lowest position of the bottom of the rotating drum; and a sealing mechanism disposed at the lowest position that can open and close the drain outlet. When the sealing mechanism is in the closed state, it covers the drain outlet and can rotate with the rotating drum. The garment processing device described in this invention omits a structure equivalent to an outer drum, allowing all washing water to be contained in the rotating drum, reducing the amount of washing water used. Furthermore, it effectively solves the problem of how to drain water from the rotating drum during the washing / spinning process.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention belongs to the field of electrical equipment, and more specifically, relates to a clothing processing device. Background Technology

[0002] In existing garment processing equipment, the inner tub is connected to the outer tub by water perforations. The inner tub is the washing tub, and the outer tub is the water tank. The water between the inner and outer tubs does not participate in the washing process; only the water in the inner tub is actually used. This results in significant water consumption. Furthermore, excessive water between the inner and outer tubs reduces the concentration of detergent / laundry powder in the washing liquid. Simultaneously, due to the frequent flow of water between the inner and outer tubs, the area between their side walls becomes a breeding ground for dirt and grime after continuous use. Scale from tap water, detergent residue, cellulose from clothing, organic matter from the wearer, and dust and bacteria brought in by clothes easily accumulate between the inner and outer tubs. This accumulated dirt, particularly mold, thrives and multiplies because it cannot be effectively removed. If this unseen dirt is not cleaned, bacteria will re-adhere to the clothes after the next wash, potentially causing cross-infection. In existing technologies, some washing machine manufacturers remove the outer tub, relying solely on the inner tub to perform multiple garment processing functions. The inner tub rotates during washing while simultaneously draining its internal water, making the drainage mechanism difficult to design. Furthermore, during spin-drying, the inner tub continues to rotate, preventing water from draining out and hindering the spin-drying function. Moreover, maintaining inner tub stability during drainage and filling is challenging in existing technologies. Even further, the drainage outlet requires a specific angle and orientation, an area completely unaddressed by current garment processing equipment. Therefore, maintaining inner tub stability during drainage and other processes, achieving drainage and spin-drying without affecting other inner tub functions, and adjusting the angle / position of the drain outlet are pressing issues that need to be addressed.

[0003] In view of this, the present invention is proposed. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The technical problem this invention aims to solve is to overcome the shortcomings of existing technologies and provide a garment processing device that omits the structure equivalent to an outer tub, allowing all washing water to be contained in a rotating tub, thus reducing water consumption. It also effectively solves the problem of how to drain water from the rotating tub during the washing / spinning process. The addition of locking and positioning mechanisms for the rotating tub ensures its effective positioning.

[0005] To solve the above-mentioned technical problems, the basic concept of the technical solution adopted by the present invention is as follows:

[0006] A garment processing device includes: a rotating drum capable of rotating about its axis, a drain outlet disposed at the lowest position of the bottom of the rotating drum, and a sealing mechanism disposed at the lowest position that can open and close the drain outlet, wherein the sealing mechanism covers the drain outlet when in a closed state and can rotate with the rotating drum.

[0007] The present invention is further configured such that: the rotating barrel is equipped with an auxiliary mechanism for the auxiliary sealing mechanism to close the drain outlet, and the auxiliary mechanism provides the sealing mechanism with a force that directionally closes the drain outlet downward;

[0008] Preferably, at least one end of the rotating barrel and the sealing mechanism is connected through the auxiliary mechanism, and the auxiliary mechanism is always kept in a state that tends to close the sealing mechanism;

[0009] Preferably, the auxiliary mechanism is a tension spring.

[0010] The present invention is further configured such that at least a portion of the sealing mechanism is disposed on the inner side of the rotating barrel;

[0011] Preferably, the coverage area of ​​the sealing mechanism is larger than the opening area of ​​the drain outlet;

[0012] Preferably, the number of the sealing mechanism and / or drain outlet is at least one.

[0013] The present invention is further configured such that: when blocking the drain outlet, the blocking mechanism is embedded in the bottom of the rotating barrel, and the side of the blocking mechanism facing the center of the rotating barrel is not higher than the inner surface of the rotating barrel;

[0014] Preferably, the side of the sealing mechanism facing the center of the rotating barrel is flush with the bottom surface of the rotating barrel;

[0015] More preferably, when the sealing mechanism is in the open state, the side of it facing the center of the rotating barrel is not higher than the bottom surface of the rotating barrel.

[0016] The present invention is further configured such that the position of the rotating barrel relative to the sealing mechanism is a groove structure, and the sealing mechanism and the drain outlet are disposed in the groove.

[0017] The present invention is further configured such that at least a portion of the sealing mechanism is rotatably connected to the rotating bucket, so that at least a portion of the sealing mechanism can be separated from the rotating bucket when the drain outlet is opened, while at least a portion of the sealing mechanism remains connected to the rotating bucket.

[0018] Preferably, the sealing mechanism is made of an elastic material;

[0019] Preferably, the sealing mechanism is a plate-shaped structure;

[0020] Preferably, when the sealing mechanism is flipped relative to the rotating barrel, at least a portion of the drain outlet is opened.

[0021] The present invention is further configured such that: the garment processing device includes an opening mechanism for opening the sealing mechanism, the opening mechanism being disposed below the rotating drum corresponding to the sealing mechanism; when the device drains water, the sealing mechanism opens the drain outlet under the action of the opening mechanism, and water is discharged from the rotating drum.

[0022] Preferably, when the device drains water, at least a portion of the opening mechanism passes through the drain outlet and pushes the sealing mechanism upward, so that at least a portion of the drain outlet opens and water is discharged from the rotating bucket;

[0023] Preferably, the opening mechanism includes a push rod that acts on the sealing mechanism to move the sealing mechanism upward to open the drain outlet, and a drive unit that drives the push rod to move up and down. When the equipment drains water, the drive unit drives the push rod to lift the sealing mechanism upward.

[0024] The present invention is further configured such that: the sealing mechanism protrudes towards the drain outlet relative to the position of the drain outlet, the protrusion is embedded in the drain outlet, and the maximum radial dimension of the protrusion is not greater than the dimension of the drain outlet in that direction;

[0025] Preferably, the protrusion has a conical structure, and its radial dimension gradually decreases on the side away from the interior of the rotating barrel;

[0026] Preferably, the radial cross-sectional shape of the protrusion is the same as the cross-sectional shape of the drain outlet in that direction.

[0027] The present invention is further configured such that: the rotating drum is provided with a dehydration mechanism, the dehydration mechanism including a dehydration hole provided on the upper part of the peripheral wall of the rotating drum;

[0028] Preferably, the dehydration mechanism further includes a water guide component disposed on the peripheral wall of the rotating drum, which guides water from top to bottom. The upper end of the water guide component is connected to the dehydration hole, and the lower end drains water to the outside of the rotating drum.

[0029] Preferably, the water guide has a cavity / groove structure that allows water to flow inside, and the cavity / groove structure covers the dewatering hole on the peripheral wall of the rotating barrel, so that the water flowing out of the dewatering hole can be discharged along the water guide. Alternatively, the water guide is fastened to the peripheral wall of the rotating barrel and cooperates with the peripheral wall of the rotating barrel to form a cavity / groove structure that allows water to flow.

[0030] The present invention is further configured such that: the rotating barrel is provided with a dehydration mechanism, the dehydration mechanism includes a dehydration hole provided at the lower part of the peripheral wall of the rotating barrel or at the bottom of the rotating barrel and a water guide provided on the peripheral wall of the rotating barrel to guide water from top to bottom, the upper end of the water guide is connected to the inside of the rotating barrel, and the lower end is connected to the dehydration hole to drain water to the outside of the rotating barrel.

[0031] Preferably, the water guide has a cavity / groove structure that allows water to flow inside; or, the water guide is fastened to the peripheral wall of the rotating barrel and cooperates with the peripheral wall of the rotating barrel to form a cavity / groove structure that allows water to flow.

[0032] The present invention is further configured such that: the device includes a water collection mechanism, the water collection mechanism is disposed on the outside of the rotating barrel, and at least covers the bottom of the rotating barrel;

[0033] Preferably, a certain gap is left between the water collecting mechanism and the rotating bucket, and the water collecting mechanism has a groove structure;

[0034] Preferably, the opening mechanism is disposed on the water collection mechanism;

[0035] Preferably, the water collecting mechanism covers at least a portion of the dewatering mechanism in the axial direction of the rotating bucket;

[0036] Preferably, the bottom of the water collection mechanism is provided with a drainage mechanism to discharge the water collected by the water collection mechanism out of the device.

[0037] The present invention is further configured such that: the garment processing device includes a locking mechanism for locking the position and angle of the rotating drum; the locking mechanism includes a first locking part disposed on the outer side of the bottom of the rotating drum, and a retractable second locking part disposed below the first locking part; the first locking part rotates with the rotating drum, and a certain gap is left between the first locking part and the second locking part; when the device performs a locking operation on the rotating drum, at least a portion of the second locking part rises, stops / locks / slides into the first locking part, thereby locking the rotating drum; when the device performs an unlocking operation on the rotating drum, the second locking part descends and separates from the first locking part;

[0038] Preferably, the second locking part achieves locking by squeezing the first locking part and increasing the friction between the two;

[0039] Preferably, the first locking part is provided with protruding ribs distributed radially along the rotating barrel, and when the rotating barrel is locked, the second locking part is engaged with one side of the protruding ribs;

[0040] Preferably, the first locking part is provided with a groove-shaped structure along the rotation direction of the rotating barrel. The side of the groove-shaped structure opposite to the rotation direction of the rotating barrel is an opening that allows the second locking part to slide in, and the other end is closed, so that the second locking part slides along the groove-shaped structure and stops against the first locking part at the closed end of the groove-shaped structure.

[0041] Preferably, the first locking part is a concave structure / hole structure that is recessed into the inside of the rotating barrel, allowing the second locking part to engage. The second locking part rises and engages / inserts into the concave structure / hole structure to lock the rotating barrel.

[0042] Preferably, at least a portion of the first locking part and / or the second locking part is a magnetic element and / or a material that can be attracted by magnetism, so that when the distance between them is shortened and they are within the range of the magnetic field, they tend to attract each other.

[0043] The present invention is further configured such that: the garment processing device includes a positioning mechanism, the positioning mechanism includes a first positioning part disposed on the rotating drum, and a second positioning part disposed at a position corresponding to the first positioning part; the first positioning part rotates with the rotating drum, a certain gap is left between the first positioning part and the second positioning part, and when the positioning conditions are met, the first positioning part and the second positioning part attract each other to gradually slow down the rotation of the rotating drum and position it at a specific position / angle;

[0044] Preferably, the first positioning part is disposed on the outer side of the bottom of the rotating barrel;

[0045] Preferably, at least a portion of the first positioning part and / or the second positioning part is a magnetic element, and the second positioning part is a retractable structure that can extend / retract into the first positioning part. The positioning condition is that the second positioning part extends into the first positioning part, so that the two are within the range of the magnetic field and thus attract each other.

[0046] Preferably, at least a portion of the first positioning part is made of a magnetically attractive material / magnetic conductor, and at least a portion of the second positioning part is made of a magnetic conductor / magnetically attractive material. The positioning condition is to energize at least a portion of the second positioning part / first positioning part, so that it generates a magnetic field, thereby generating an attractive force on the first positioning part / second positioning part.

[0047] The present invention is further configured such that: the garment processing equipment includes a position correction mechanism for detecting the position and angle of the rotating drum, and when the position and angle of the rotating drum do not meet the preset conditions of the operation to be performed, the position correction mechanism adjusts the position and angle of the rotating drum until the preset conditions are met;

[0048] Preferably, when the device needs to perform a drainage operation, the position correction mechanism detects whether the position of the drain outlet is aligned with the position of the opening mechanism; if the result is yes, the drainage operation is performed; if the result is no, the device starts the drive device connected to the rotating barrel that drives the rotating barrel to rotate, so that the rotating barrel rotates slowly until the position correction mechanism detects that the position of the drain outlet is aligned with the position of the opening mechanism, and then the drainage operation is performed.

[0049] Preferably, the position correction mechanism includes a sensor / Hall sensor corresponding to the sensor disposed on the rotating barrel and rotating with the rotating barrel, and a Hall sensor / the sensor corresponding to the sensor disposed on the lower side of the rotating barrel and stationary relative to the rotating barrel.

[0050] By adopting the above technical solution, the present invention has the following beneficial effects compared with the prior art.

[0051] 1. The garment processing equipment described in this invention eliminates the structure equivalent to an outer tub, resulting in a simpler equipment structure. This effectively reduces the space occupied by the equipment, providing conditions for increasing the size of the rotating tub and reducing the overall size of the equipment. Positioning the drain outlet at the bottom of the rotating tub facilitates water drainage. The sealing mechanism effectively prevents water leakage from inside the rotating tub during water storage and washing processes, allowing for precise control of the drain outlet's timing.

[0052] 2. The clothing processing device described in this invention places the sealing mechanism primarily on the inner side of the rotating drum, ensuring a simple design on the outer side of the drum and preventing collisions with other components on the outer side of the drum during rotation. If the clothing processing device is a pulsator washing machine, the sealing mechanism is located below the pulsator, which provides protection for the sealing mechanism, preventing clothing and other items from covering or affecting it. The sealing mechanism's coverage area is larger than the drain opening area, allowing it to seal the drain opening from all sides, thus improving the sealing effect. Furthermore, the clothing processing device described in this invention can have multiple sealing mechanisms and drain openings, with each pair corresponding to the other. Because the rotating drum also has a pulsator at the bottom, the bottom of the drum is relatively crowded and the structure is relatively complex. This design reduces the size of the sealing mechanism and drain opening without affecting drainage efficiency. Additionally, the smaller drain opening is easier to seal with the sealing mechanism, preventing leaks.

[0053] 3. The garment processing equipment described in this invention embeds the sealing structure into the bottom of the rotating drum, ensuring that the position of the sealing mechanism within the rotating drum is flat relative to its location. This prevents the sealing mechanism from affecting the water flow in its vicinity and thus the washing effect. Furthermore, the water flowing at this location will not impact the sealing device or the drain outlet it covers, thereby maintaining the sealing effect and reducing the risk of leakage. Moreover, the sealing mechanism is designed so that even when open, its upper surface is not higher than the inner surface of the rotating drum. This ensures that the raised sealing mechanism during drainage will not affect the water flow, allowing the water to carry away all mud, sand, and lint, preventing their accumulation and entanglement on the sealing mechanism.

[0054] 4. The garment processing equipment described in this invention places the sealing mechanism in a groove at the bottom of the rotating drum. This protects the sealing mechanism and, by surrounding it, guides its opening and closing movements, preventing misalignment. Furthermore, the groove structure surrounds the sealing mechanism from multiple directions, further improving the water flow environment at that location and preventing the accumulation of mud, sand, and lint around the sealing mechanism during washing / rinsing.

[0055] 5. The garment processing equipment described in this invention ensures that the sealing mechanism maintains contact with the rotating drum at least partially at all times. This guarantees precise closure when the sealing mechanism performs its closing action, ensuring effective coverage of the drain outlet. The sealing mechanism is preferably made of an elastic material, allowing for a tighter fit with the drain outlet and its surroundings, achieving a seal. The plate-like design of the sealing mechanism helps maintain its shape during opening and closing, ensuring sealing stability. Furthermore, the design in this invention allows for adjustable sealing of the drain outlet; the degree of opening of the drain outlet can be controlled by adjusting the degree of opening of the sealing mechanism, thus controlling the drainage rate. Additionally, the auxiliary mechanism is designed as a tension spring, providing elasticity to the connection position / mechanism and enabling control over the opening degree of the sealing mechanism.

[0056] 6. The garment processing equipment described in this invention, through the design of the opening mechanism, allows the equipment to automatically control the opening and closing of the sealing mechanism during drainage. The opening mechanism is located below the sealing mechanism, so the sealing mechanism is opened by pushing it upwards. When the opening mechanism moves downwards, the sealing mechanism automatically closes due to the action of the auxiliary mechanism. Furthermore, the degree of opening of the sealing mechanism can be controlled by controlling the extension and retraction of the opening mechanism.

[0057] 7. The garment processing equipment described in this invention features a structurally designed sealing mechanism. The portion of the sealing mechanism facing the drain outlet is designed to protrude towards the drain outlet. When the sealing mechanism closes, it can seal the drain outlet from both the upper and inner sides, ensuring that at least two of the three surfaces forming the drain outlet are sealed, thus guaranteeing a effective seal. Furthermore, the protrusion used to seal the inner circumferential wall of the drain outlet is designed in a conical shape. This conical protrusion guides the closing action of the sealing mechanism, gradually guiding it to the appropriate sealing position as it moves downwards along the drain outlet.

[0058] 8. The garment processing equipment described in this invention has a feeding port at the top of the rotating drum, allowing users to feed clothes into the drum. A dehydration hole is located on the side of the feeding port near the inside of the rotating drum. The height of the dehydration hole is required to be higher than the normal water level during washing / rinsing, so that the placement of the dehydration hole will not affect the normal washing / rinsing process. When the equipment performs dehydration, due to the high-speed rotation of the drum, water in the clothes is thrown out and moves upwards along the drum, leaving the drum at the dehydration hole. Furthermore, the design of this dehydration hole can also serve as a water level monitoring tool. When the water level is too high or water splashes out during washing / rinsing, some of the water can leave the rotating drum through the dehydration hole. Additionally, the dehydration hole can also serve as a defoaming tool. If there is too much foam in the washing water during garment processing, since the foam floats on the surface and its height is higher than the washing water surface, this excess foam can be discharged through the dehydration hole.

[0059] 9. The garment processing equipment described in this invention, through the design of the water guiding component, enables the water / foam flowing out from the dewatering hole to flow out in a predetermined direction / position along the route specified by the water guiding component.

[0060] 10. The garment processing equipment described in this invention incorporates a water collection mechanism with a certain gap between it and the rotating drum. The water collection mechanism collects water flowing from the top of the rotating drum and the drain outlet. When the equipment drains, water flows from the drain outlet to the water collection mechanism, is collected, and then discharged from the equipment by the drain mechanism mounted on the water collection mechanism, preventing water from splashing into the equipment. The axial dimension of the water collection mechanism along the rotating drum is flexible. If the equipment does not have a water guide or the water guide distance is short, the axial dimension of the water collection mechanism can be designed to be longer, thus replacing some of the functions of the water guide. If the water guide is designed to be long enough to guide water to the bottom of the rotating drum, the length of the water collection mechanism only needs to cover the outlet end of the water guide.

[0061] 11. The garment processing equipment described in this invention incorporates a locking mechanism, which helps maintain the rotating drum's stationary position during water filling and draining operations, preventing shaking caused by water flow impact. When the rotating drum's drive device (motor) stops rotating, the drum will continue to rotate in its original direction due to its own inertia, then slowly stop, positioning the drum at a specific angle, which helps align the drain outlet and the opening mechanism. In this invention, the second locking part rises upwards during the rotating drum's inertial rotation to abut / lock into the first locking part, thus locking the rotating drum. When the drum is released, the second locking part descends, separating from the first locking part. Furthermore, the locking part can be equipped with a magnetic component, allowing the first and second locking parts to quickly attract each other when the relative distance between them is within the magnetic field's range, completing the locking and strengthening the locking force.

[0062] 12. The garment processing equipment described in this invention incorporates a positioning mechanism. Unlike a locking mechanism, this positioning mechanism does not lock the position of the rotating drum; instead, it fixes its position. This positioning relationship can be broken when the rotating drum is subjected to a sufficiently large external force. The positioning mechanism design allows the rotating drum to be positioned more gently in the appropriate location, avoiding significant impact. The second positioning part can be a structure that can extend and retract towards the location of the first positioning part. When the two are close enough that one can enter the magnetic field range generated by the other, they attract each other under the influence of the magnetic field. This accelerates the stopping of the rotating drum during its inertial rotation and positions it at a specific angle, facilitating the alignment of the drain outlet and the opening mechanism.

[0063] 13. The garment processing equipment described in this invention incorporates a position correction mechanism. When the equipment needs to perform operations such as drainage that require specific positioning of the rotating drum, and the position and angle of the rotating drum cannot meet these requirements, the position correction mechanism detects and determines the position and angle of the rotating drum. It then activates the drive device connected to the rotating drum through the equipment's control system, causing the drum to slowly rotate and adjust its angle until the position and angle meet the specific requirements for drainage or other operations. This slow adjustment method prevents the garments inside the rotating drum from tumbling or moving, thus maintaining the drum's stability. Furthermore, the slow adjustment speed minimizes inertia and prevents the rotating drum's angle from being adjusted beyond the actual requirements.

[0064] The specific embodiments of the present invention will now be described in further detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Attached Figure Description

[0065] The accompanying drawings, as part of this invention, are used to provide a further understanding of the invention. The illustrative embodiments and descriptions of the invention are used to explain the invention, but do not constitute an undue limitation of the invention. Obviously, the drawings described below are merely some embodiments, and those skilled in the art can obtain other drawings based on these drawings without creative effort. In the drawings:

[0066] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the closed state of the sealing mechanism of the clothing processing equipment in one embodiment of the present invention;

[0067] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the opening state of the sealing mechanism of the clothing processing equipment in one embodiment of the present invention;

[0068] Figure 3 This is an enlarged structural diagram of the sealing mechanism of the clothing processing equipment in the open state according to one embodiment of the present invention;

[0069] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a clothing processing device according to one embodiment of the present invention;

[0070] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram showing the cooperation relationship between the water collection ring, water guide component, and balance ring of a clothing processing device in one embodiment of the present invention;

[0071] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the water flow state in the water collection ring and water guide of a clothing processing device according to one embodiment of the present invention;

[0072] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the water flow state in the water collection ring, water guide, and water collection mechanism of the clothing processing device in one embodiment of the present invention;

[0073] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the water flow state in the water collection ring, water guide, and water collection mechanism of the clothing processing device in one embodiment of the present invention;

[0074] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram showing the structure and position of the locking mechanism of a clothing processing device according to one embodiment of the present invention;

[0075] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram showing the structure and position of the locking mechanism of a clothing processing device according to one embodiment of the present invention;

[0076] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of the locking mechanism structure of a clothing processing device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0077] It should be noted that these accompanying drawings and textual descriptions are not intended to limit the scope of the invention in any way, but rather to illustrate the concept of the invention to those skilled in the art by referring to specific embodiments. Detailed Implementation

[0078] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of the embodiments of the present invention clearer, the technical solutions in the embodiments will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. The following embodiments are used to illustrate the present invention, but are not intended to limit the scope of the present invention.

[0079] In the description of this invention, it should be noted that the terms "upper", "lower", "front", "rear", "left", "right", "vertical", "inner", "outer", etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They are only for the convenience of describing this invention and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limiting this invention.

[0080] In the description of this invention, it should be noted that, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," and "linking" 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 mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this invention based on the specific circumstances.

[0081] like Figures 1 to 11 As shown, the garment processing device of the present invention includes: a rotating drum 1 capable of rotating about its axial direction, a drain outlet 3 disposed at the lowest position of the bottom of the rotating drum 1, and a sealing mechanism 2 disposed at the lowest position that can open and close the drain outlet 3. When the sealing mechanism 2 is in the closed state, it covers the drain outlet 3 and can rotate with the rotating drum 1. The rotating drum 1 is equipped with an auxiliary mechanism 4 that assists the sealing mechanism 2 in closing the drain outlet 3. The auxiliary mechanism 4 provides the sealing mechanism 2 with a directional downward force to close the drain outlet 3. Preferably, at least one end of the rotating drum 1 and the sealing mechanism 2 are connected through the auxiliary mechanism 4, and the auxiliary mechanism 4 is always kept in a state that tends to close the sealing mechanism 2.

[0082] The garment processing device described in this invention eliminates the outer drum structure, resulting in a simpler device design. This effectively reduces the space occupied by the device, allowing for a larger rotating drum and a smaller overall device size. Positioning the drain outlet at the bottom of the rotating drum facilitates water drainage. The sealing mechanism effectively prevents water leakage from the rotating drum during water storage and washing processes, allowing for precise control of the drain timing.

[0083] Example 1

[0084] like Figure 1 As shown, in the clothing processing device described in this embodiment, the sealing mechanism 2 is mostly located inside the rotating drum 1. The coverage area of ​​the sealing mechanism is larger than the opening area of ​​the drain outlet, allowing the sealing mechanism to fit tightly against the rotating drum 1 around the drain outlet, ensuring a tight seal. Multiple sealing mechanisms and / or drain outlets can be used, allowing the rotating drum to drain water from multiple locations. By placing the sealing mechanism primarily inside the rotating drum in the clothing processing device described in this embodiment, the design of the outer side of the rotating drum remains simple, preventing collisions with other components on the outer side of the rotating drum during rotation. If the clothing processing device is a pulsator washing machine, the sealing mechanism is located below the pulsator 12, which provides protection for the sealing mechanism, preventing clothing and other items from covering or affecting it. The sealing mechanism's coverage area is larger than the opening area of ​​the drain outlet, allowing it to seal the drain outlet from all sides, thus improving the sealing effect. Furthermore, in the clothing processing device described in this invention, multiple sealing mechanisms and drain outlets can be used, with each type of sealing mechanism and drain outlet corresponding to the other. Because of the impeller at the bottom of the rotating drum, the bottom of the drum is relatively crowded and the structure is relatively complex. This design allows for a reduction in the size of the sealing mechanism and drain outlet without affecting drainage efficiency. Furthermore, the smaller drain outlet is easier for the sealing mechanism to seal, helping to prevent leaks.

[0085] Furthermore, in this embodiment of the clothing processing device, when blocking the drain outlet, the blocking mechanism 2 is embedded from top to bottom into the bottom of the rotating drum 1, with the side of the blocking mechanism 2 facing the center of the rotating drum ( Figure 1 The top of the sealing mechanism is not higher than the inner surface of the rotating barrel; and when the sealing mechanism is in the open state, the side facing the center of the rotating barrel is not higher than the bottom surface of the rotating barrel. Preferably, the side of the sealing mechanism facing the center of the rotating barrel is flush with the bottom surface of the rotating barrel.

[0086] Furthermore, in this embodiment of the clothing processing device, the position of the rotating drum relative to the sealing mechanism is a groove structure, and the sealing mechanism and the drain outlet are disposed in the groove.

[0087] Example 2

[0088] like Figure 2 , 3As shown, the difference between the garment processing device described in this embodiment and the one described above is that the sealing mechanism 2 and the rotating drum are connected in a flip-out manner, so that when the drain outlet 3 is opened, the right side of the sealing mechanism 2, as shown in the figure, tilts upward and separates from the rotating drum, while the left side of the sealing mechanism 2 remains connected to the rotating drum. The sealing mechanism 2 in this embodiment is made of an elastic material, such as rubber or silicone. The sealing mechanism 2 has a plate-like structure, which maintains shape stability when it covers the drain outlet 3. When the sealing mechanism 2 is flipped relative to the bottom of the rotating drum, at least a portion of the drain outlet 3 is opened.

[0089] Furthermore, in this embodiment of the garment processing device, one end of the rotating drum and the sealing mechanism 2 are connected via an auxiliary mechanism 4, and the auxiliary mechanism 4 is always kept in a state that tends to close the sealing mechanism 2. Preferably, the auxiliary mechanism is a tension spring.

[0090] The garment processing equipment described in this embodiment ensures that the sealing mechanism maintains at least a portion in contact with the rotating drum at all times. This guarantees precise closure when the sealing mechanism performs its closing action, ensuring effective coverage of the drain outlet. The sealing mechanism is preferably made of an elastic material, allowing for a tighter fit with the drain outlet and its surroundings, achieving a seal. The plate-like design of the sealing mechanism helps maintain its shape during opening and closing, ensuring sealing stability. Furthermore, the design allows for adjustable sealing of the drain outlet; the degree of opening of the drain outlet can be controlled by adjusting the degree of opening of the sealing mechanism, thus controlling the drainage rate. Additionally, the auxiliary mechanism is designed as a tension spring, providing elasticity to the connection position / mechanism and enabling control over the opening degree of the sealing mechanism.

[0091] Example 3

[0092] like Figure 1 , 2 As shown in Figure 3, the difference between the garment processing equipment described in this embodiment and the above embodiment is that the garment processing equipment includes an opening mechanism 5 for opening the auxiliary sealing mechanism 2. The opening mechanism 5 is located below the rotating drum 1 corresponding to the sealing mechanism 2. The opening mechanism 5 is relatively stationary. When the rotating drum 1 rotates, the opening mechanism 5 is also positioned relative to the housing of the equipment (e.g., ...). Figure 4 The box 10 shown is in a stationary state. When the equipment drains water, the sealing mechanism 2 opens the drain outlet 3 under the action of the opening mechanism 5, allowing water to be discharged from the rotating tank 1.

[0093] Furthermore, in this embodiment, when the equipment drains water, the top rod 51 of the opening mechanism 5 passes through the drain outlet 3 and rises towards the inside of the rotating bucket, thereby opening the sealing mechanism 2 ( Figure 3The right side of the sealing mechanism 2 is pushed upward, causing at least a portion of the drain outlet 3 to open, thus enabling drainage. The opening mechanism 5 includes a telescopic motor 52 (i.e., a drive device) connected to the push rod 51, which can move upward or downward under the drive of the telescopic motor 52. When the equipment drains water, the telescopic motor 52 drives the push rod 51 to push the sealing mechanism 2 upward, thereby opening the drain outlet 3.

[0094] Furthermore, in the garment processing device of this embodiment, the sealing mechanism 2 protrudes 21 towards the drain outlet 3 relative to its position. The protrusion 21 is embedded in the drain outlet 3, and its maximum radial dimension is not greater than the dimension of the drain outlet 3 in that direction. When the drain outlet is opened, the push rod 51 directly contacts the protrusion 21. Since the dimension of the protrusion 21 in the thickness direction is greater than the dimensions of other parts of the sealing mechanism, this part has a stronger deformation resistance than other parts, and will not cause plastic deformation even after repeated use. The protrusion has a conical structure, and its radial dimension gradually decreases on the side away from the interior of the rotating drum. The cross-sectional shape of the protrusion along the radial direction is the same as the cross-sectional shape of the drain outlet in that direction.

[0095] The garment processing equipment described in this embodiment features a designed sealing mechanism. The portion of the sealing mechanism facing the drain outlet is designed to protrude towards the outlet. When the sealing mechanism closes, it seals the drain outlet from both the upper and inner sides, ensuring that at least two of the three surfaces forming the drain outlet are sealed, thus guaranteeing a proper seal. Furthermore, the protrusion used to seal the inner wall of the drain outlet is designed in a conical shape. This conical protrusion guides the closing action of the sealing mechanism, gradually guiding it to the appropriate sealing position as it moves downwards along the drain outlet.

[0096] Example 4

[0097] like Figure 1 , 2 As shown, the difference between the clothing processing device described in this embodiment and the above embodiment is that: the rotating drum 1 is provided with an inlet 6 for allowing clothing to be put in, and the clothing processing device includes a dehydration mechanism, which includes at least two dehydration holes 71 that penetrate the rotating drum and are close to the inlet; when the device dehydrates, the water in the rotating drum 1 moves toward the inlet 6 under the action of centrifugal force and is thrown out of the rotating drum 1 through the dehydration holes 71.

[0098] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the garment processing device includes a water collection mechanism 72, which is located on the outside of the rotating drum 1, with a certain gap between the water collection mechanism 72 and the rotating drum 1. The water collection mechanism 72 has a groove / pool structure. The position of the water collection mechanism 72 is fixed, and the water collection mechanism 72 remains stationary when the rotating drum 1 rotates or remains stationary. In this embodiment, the opening mechanism 5 is located on the water collection mechanism 6. In this embodiment, the axial dimension of the water collection mechanism 6 in the rotating drum is at least higher than the height of the dewatering hole 71, so that the water collection mechanism 6 can cover the dewatering hole in the radial direction of the rotating drum 1, allowing the water ejected from the dewatering hole to fall onto the water collection mechanism 6. Furthermore, the washing water slides down the side wall of the water collection mechanism 6 and is collected at the bottom of the water collection mechanism 6. At an appropriate time, the drain mechanism 11 connected to the bottom of the water collection mechanism 6 is opened to drain the collected water.

[0099] Example 5

[0100] The difference between the garment processing equipment described in this embodiment and the above-described embodiment lies in the following: the dehydration mechanism includes a water guide component axially arranged along the outer side of the rotating drum, corresponding to the dehydration hole. The water guide component has a cavity-like structure inside that allows water flow. This cavity-like structure covers the dehydration hole on the outer side of the rotating drum, allowing water flowing out of the dehydration hole to be discharged along the water guide component. The water guide component extends to a position near the bottom on the outer side of the rotating drum, guiding the water to the drainage mechanism. Through the design of the water guide component, the water / foam flowing out of the dehydration hole can flow out in a predetermined direction / position along the path specified by the water guide component. Correspondingly, the length of the water collection mechanism in this embodiment only needs to cover the outlet end of the water guide component, significantly reducing the axial dimension of the water collection mechanism along the rotating drum.

[0101] Example 6

[0102] like Figure 4 , 5 As shown in Figures 6, 7, and 8, the difference between the garment processing equipment in this embodiment and the above-described embodiment is that the dehydration mechanism includes a water guide 73 arranged axially along the outer side of the rotating drum 1 corresponding to the dehydration hole. The interior of the water guide 73 is a groove-shaped structure that allows water to flow. The groove-shaped structure covers the dehydration hole on the outer side of the rotating drum 1. The groove-shaped structure and the outer side of the rotating drum together form a water flow channel, so that the water flowing out of the dehydration hole can be discharged along the water guide 73.

[0103] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the upper part of the rotating drum 1 of the garment processing equipment is provided with a water collecting ring 9, which defines a cavity for collecting the washing water that rises to the top along the inner wall of the rotating drum 1. The peripheral wall of the rotating drum 1 is provided with a water guide 73 that guides the washing water in the water collecting ring 9 from top to bottom to the outside of the washing drum. The upper end of the water guide 73 has a water guide inlet 731 that communicates with the cavity of the water collecting ring. The water guide 73 is a cover structure that covers the peripheral wall of the rotating drum 1 to form a water guide cavity 730.

[0104] Furthermore, the water collecting ring 9 is installed on the upper part of the circumferential wall of the rotating tub 1 and has a water collecting ring inlet 91. The water collecting ring 9 defines a water collecting ring cavity 90 that communicates with the water collecting ring inlet 91 to collect the washing water rising along the inner circumferential wall of the rotating tub 1. The water collecting ring cavity 90 communicates with the water guide inlet 731.

[0105] During the washing stage, the clothes are soaked and washed in the rotating drum 1. During the spin-drying stage, the rotating drum 1 rotates at high speed, and the washing water in the rotating drum 1 rises upward along the inner wall and enters the water collection ring 9 under the action of centrifugal force. When the spin-drying is finished, the rotating drum 1 rotates due to inertia and its speed decreases. The washing water in the water collection ring 9 is discharged downward through the water guide 73. In the drainage stage of the clothing processing equipment of the present invention, the rotating drum 1 can use centrifugal force to discharge water from the water guide channel. Similar to the spin-drying method, the washing water rises upward along the inner wall under the action of centrifugal force and is discharged from the water collection ring and the water guide.

[0106] The clothing processing device of the present invention also includes a water collection mechanism 72 disposed in the housing 10 for collecting water discharged from the rotating drum 1. The water collection mechanism 72 includes a water collection mechanism cavity 720 and at least one water collection mechanism drain outlet 721 for draining water to the outside of the clothing processing device. Water discharged downward by the water guide 73 is collected by the water collection mechanism cavity 720 and discharged from the water collection mechanism drain outlet 721.

[0107] Example 7

[0108] like Figure 4 , 5 As shown in Figures 6 and 7, the difference between the clothing processing device in this embodiment and the above-described embodiment is that: in this embodiment, the water collecting ring 9 is located inside the rotating drum 1, and the bottom wall 901 of the water collecting ring cavity facing the bottom of the rotating drum is provided with a water collecting ring inlet 91. The lower surface of the bottom wall 901 of the water collecting ring cavity is a blocking surface to prevent water from climbing upwards. The bottom wall 901 of the water collecting ring cavity is also provided with a water collecting ring outlet 92 communicating with the water guide 73. The water guide 73 is installed inside the rotating drum 1, and the water guide inlet 731 is located at the upper end of the water guide 73, which is directed upwards and communicates with the water collecting ring outlet 92 on the bottom wall 901 of the water collecting ring cavity. The water guide 73 defines a water guide cavity 730 extending downwards.

[0109] Preferably, in order to further guide the speed of water entering the water collecting ring, the water collecting ring inlet 91 on the bottom wall 901 of the water collecting ring cavity is designed with a structure in which the aperture gradually decreases from bottom to top; and / or, a ring of water-blocking ribs is provided around the water collecting ring inlet 91 in the water collecting ring cavity 90, which can prevent the water in the water collecting cavity from flowing back into the rotating drum when the rotation speed of the rotating drum decreases; and / or, the water collecting ring inlet 91 is provided with a one-way water inlet structure, which can completely prevent the washing water from flowing back into the rotating drum; more preferably, in order to guide the water in the water collecting ring cavity 90 downward into the water guide member 73, the water collecting ring outlet 92 provided on the bottom wall of the water collecting ring cavity is provided with a downward water guiding structure.

[0110] In this embodiment, the water collecting ring 9 is located outside the rotating barrel 1. The inner peripheral wall of the water collecting ring cavity 90, near the center of the rotating barrel 1, is provided with a water collecting ring inlet 91. The bottom wall 901 of the water collecting ring cavity is provided with a water collecting ring outlet 92 that communicates with the water guide 73. The water guide 73 is installed outside the rotating barrel 1. The water guide inlet 731 is located at the upper end of the water guide 73 and communicates upward with the water collecting ring outlet 92 located on the bottom wall 901 of the water collecting ring cavity. The water guide 73 defines a water guide cavity 730 extending downward. The lower part of the water guide cavity 730 has a water guide outlet.

[0111] More preferably, in this embodiment, a baffle plate 93 is provided inside the water collecting ring cavity 90 to guide the washing water into the water guiding channel. The baffle plate 93 is located above the water inlet 731 of the water guiding component and is inclined at a certain angle. The side of the baffle plate 93 facing the water flow direction is inclined downwards corresponding to the water inlet. When the washing water flows circumferentially in the water collecting ring cavity 90, it will collide with the baffle plate 93 and be changed in direction by the baffle plate 93, changing from circumferential flow to downward flow, and enter the water guiding component 73 through the water inlet. Since the baffle plate changes the water flow direction in the water collecting ring cavity, during high-speed dehydration, the water in the water collecting ring cavity can flow into the water guiding component, effectively avoiding the inability to collect water due to excessive water in the water collecting ring cavity.

[0112] Example 8

[0113] like Figure 8 As shown, the difference between the clothing processing equipment in this embodiment and the above-described embodiment is that: the rotating drum 1 is equipped with a dehydration mechanism, which includes a dehydration hole located on the lower part of the peripheral wall of the rotating drum 1 or at the bottom of the rotating drum 1, and a water guide 73 located on the peripheral wall of the rotating drum that guides water from top to bottom. The upper end of the water guide 73 communicates with the interior of the rotating drum 1, and the lower end communicates with the dehydration hole to drain water to the outside of the rotating drum 1. A water collection mechanism is provided at the lower part of the rotating drum 1, so the water discharged from the water guide flows into the water collection mechanism.

[0114] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the water guide 73 has a cavity / groove structure that allows water to flow inside, or the water guide 73 is fastened to the peripheral wall of the rotating barrel 1 and cooperates with the peripheral wall of the rotating barrel 1 to form a cavity / groove structure that allows water to flow.

[0115] Example 9

[0116] like Figure 9 , 10As shown in Figure 11, the difference between the garment processing device of this embodiment and the above embodiment is that the garment processing device includes a locking mechanism for locking the position and angle of the rotating drum. The locking mechanism includes a first locking part disposed on the outer side of the bottom of the rotating drum, and a retractable second locking part disposed below the first locking part. The first locking part rotates with the rotating drum, and there is a certain gap between the first locking part and the second locking part. When the device performs a locking operation on the rotating drum, at least a part of the second locking part rises, stops / locks / slides into the first locking part, thereby locking the rotating drum. When the device performs an unlocking operation on the rotating drum, the second locking part descends and separates from the first locking part.

[0117] Preferably, in this embodiment, the second locking part achieves locking by squeezing the first locking part and increasing the friction between the two.

[0118] More preferably, in this embodiment, the first locking part is provided with a groove-like structure along the rotation direction of the rotating barrel. The side of the groove-like structure facing away from the rotation direction of the rotating barrel has an opening allowing the second locking part to slide in, while the other end is closed. This allows the second locking part to slide along the groove-like structure and abut against the first locking part at the closed end of the groove-like structure. After the driving device connected to the rotating barrel stops working, the rotating barrel continues to rotate under inertia. At this time, the second locking part rises upwards, and the first locking part, driven by the rotating barrel, locks the second locking part in place.

[0119] More preferably, in this embodiment, the first locking part is a concave structure / hole structure that recesses inward towards the rotating barrel, allowing the second locking part to engage. The second locking part rises and engages / inserts into the concave structure / hole structure to lock the rotating barrel. With this structure, the first locking part surrounds the second locking part above and around it, resulting in the best locking effect.

[0120] More preferably, in this embodiment, at least a portion of the first locking part and / or the second locking part is a magnetic element and / or a material that can be attracted by magnetism, so that when the distance between the two is shortened and they are within the range of the magnetic field, they tend to attract each other.

[0121] Example 10

[0122] like Figure 9 , 10 As shown in Figure 11, the difference between the garment processing device in this embodiment and the one described above is that:

[0123] A locking mechanism a300 is added to the bottom of the rotating tub 1, and a draining mechanism a400 is fixed on the water collecting mechanism in the circumferential direction. The drain outlet is located on the rotating tub 1. The locking mechanism a300 can first position the rotating tub 1 to correspond with the opening mechanism, and then lock the rotating tub 1. The locking mechanism a300 can also effectively prevent the rotating tub 1 from rotating during water intake and washing.

[0124] This invention discloses a locking mechanism a300 for a rotating drum 1 of a garment processing device. The rotating drum 1 has a first locking part at its bottom, which is a locking hole a301 not communicating with the rotating drum 1. A second locking part, which cooperates with the first locking part, is installed at the bottom of a water collection mechanism. The second locking part includes at least one retractable locking rod a302, which is fixed circumferentially. The locking rod a302 can move upward and extend into the locking hole a301, locking the rotating drum 1 and preventing it from rotating. During operations requiring rotation of the rotating drum 1, such as spin-drying, the locking rod a302 moves downward and disengages from the locking hole a301, allowing the rotating drum 1 to rotate circumferentially and spin-dry the garments inside. When the bottom of the rotating drum 1 needs to be locked, the locking rod a301 moves upward and extends into the locking hole a301, locking the rotating drum 1. The locking rod a302 then moves downward until it is flush with the inner bottom surface of the water collection mechanism, without affecting the rotation of the rotating drum 1.

[0125] The bottom of the water collection mechanism has a mounting hole for the locking mechanism. A retractable sealing structure is provided between the locking rod and the mounting hole. Preferably, the sealing structure is an annular sealing ring, with its inner circle connected to the locking rod and its outer circle connected to the mounting hole. More preferably, the annular sealing ring has radially corrugated bends. A preferred sealing structure is a corrugated sleeve a307, which has a certain degree of elasticity, is impermeable to water, and achieves a seal. The sealing sleeve is made of an elastic material, such as a rubber sleeve. The first end a308 of the sealing sleeve a307 is sealed to the upper end of the fixed shell a305. A third end a310 extends axially from the second end a309 of the sealing sleeve a307 and is sealed to the lower end of the fixed shell a305. The extended portion is a sealing sleeve that can extend and retract with the locking rod, preferably in a corrugated shape. The extended sealing sleeve adds a secondary sealing function. Even if the primary seal fails, the extended sealing sleeve can provide a further seal, improving safety and preventing leakage.

[0126] A boss a320 is provided on the upper part of the locking rod a302, and the second end a309 of the sealing sleeve is connected to the boss. The inner diameter of the second end a309 is slightly larger than the outer diameter of the locking rod a302. The side of the second end a309 fits against the boss a320, and the two are fixed by the fastening nut a327. The boss a320 and the fastening nut a327 compress the second end a309 to form a seal.

[0127] The locking mechanism a300 is located at the bottom of the water collecting mechanism, corresponding to the locking hole. The locking mechanism a300 also includes a fixing seat a303 for a locking rod a302. The fixing seat a303 is a ring-shaped structure fixed to the outer side of the bottom of the water collecting mechanism. The center of the fixing seat a303 has a slide rail a304 for the locking rod a302. The fixing seat a303 is fixed to the outer side of the bottom of the water collecting mechanism by bolts or screws. The center of the fixing seat a303 has a slide rail a304 for the locking rod a302, which can slide within the slide rail a304 to control the locking and unlocking of the rotating tank.

[0128] A locking hole a301 is provided on the rotating barrel flange a103. On the rotating barrel flange a103, there are smooth grooves on both sides of the locking hole a301, forming a guide rail a325. Alternatively, the guide rail a325 can be a separate structure with a smooth groove, and the locking hole a301 is located in the middle of this groove. When the rotational speed of the rotating barrel 1 is lower than a certain set speed, the locking rod a302 moves upward and presses against the guide rail a325. Due to the action of the spring a321, the locking rod a302 also tends to move upward. The rotation of the rotating barrel 1 causes friction between the guide rail a325 and the locking rod a302. When the locking hole a301 moves to a position corresponding to the locking rod a302, the locking rod moves upward and extends into the locking hole a301, thus achieving the positioning and locking of the rotating barrel 1.

[0129] A spring a321 is fitted outside the slide rail a304 of the locking rod a302. The spring a321 is located between the boss a320 of the locking rod a302 and the fixed seat a303. One end of the spring a321 contacts the boss a320, and the other end contacts the fixed seat a303. When the locking rod a302 moves downward, the boss a320 compresses the spring a321, causing the spring a321 to be compressed. The restoring force of the spring a321 can also cause the locking rod a302 to move upward.

[0130] Example 11

[0131] The difference between the garment processing device in this embodiment and the one described above is that the garment processing device in this embodiment includes a positioning mechanism that enables the rotating drum to be positioned at a specific angle and position. Therefore, some functions of the garment processing device can only be realized when the rotating drum is in a specific position and angle. The technical solution in this embodiment can completely solve this technical problem. The positioning mechanism includes a first positioning part disposed on the outside of the rotating drum and a second positioning part disposed at a corresponding position to the first positioning part. The first positioning part rotates with the rotating drum, and a certain gap is left between the first positioning part and the second positioning part. Furthermore, at least when the angle / position of the rotating drum is within a certain range, the first positioning part / second positioning part is within the magnetic field range of the second positioning part / first positioning part. When the positioning conditions are met, the first positioning part and the second positioning part attract each other to gradually slow down the rotation of the rotating drum and position it at a specific position / angle. The positioning mechanism can be flexibly positioned. It can be placed at a location corresponding to the dispensing port of the rotating bucket (the first positioning part is placed near the dispensing port, and the second positioning part is placed at a corresponding location on the balance ring), or on the side wall of the rotating bucket (the first positioning part is placed on the outer side wall of the rotating bucket, and the second positioning part is placed at a corresponding location on the equipment's housing / water collection mechanism), or at the bottom of the rotating bucket (the first positioning part is placed on the outer side of the bottom of the rotating bucket, and the second positioning part is placed at a corresponding location on the equipment's housing / water collection mechanism). Furthermore, multiple positioning mechanisms can be configured, and their different positions further ensure the accuracy and speed of positioning when locating the rotating bucket.

[0132] Preferably, at least a portion of the first positioning part and / or the second positioning part is a magnetic element, and the second positioning part is a retractable structure that can extend / retract towards the first positioning part. The positioning condition is that the second positioning part extends towards the first positioning part, so that both are within the range of the magnetic field and thus attract each other. The positioning of the rotating barrel can be controlled by controlling the degree of extension and retraction of the second positioning part.

[0133] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the positioning mechanism can be integrated with the locking mechanism. The difference lies in that, when the locking function is implemented, the first locking part and the second locking part of the locking mechanism are in direct contact, rigidly locking the rotating barrel. However, when the positioning mechanism implements the positioning function, the first positioning part and the second positioning part are not in direct contact. The first positioning part and the first locking part can be integrated, and the second positioning part and the second locking part can be integrated. When positioning the rotating barrel is required, the distance between the first positioning part / first locking part and the second positioning part / second locking part is shortened, but they do not contact each other, thus achieving positioning. When locking the rotating barrel is required, the first positioning part / first locking part moves towards the second positioning part / second locking part until they contact each other, thus achieving locking. Furthermore, the operation of positioning the rotating barrel can be performed before locking it, thereby ensuring that the locking is in place.

[0134] Example 12

[0135] The difference between the garment processing device in this embodiment and the one described above is that at least a portion of the first positioning part in this embodiment is made of a magnetically attractive material, and at least a portion of the second positioning part is a magnetic conductor. The positioning condition is that energizing at least a portion of the second positioning part generates a magnetic field, which in turn attracts the first positioning part. In this embodiment, the positioning mechanism does not require moving the positioning components during the positioning function; that is, the positioning mechanism remains stationary during the positioning operation, and the positioning of the rotating drum is achieved by controlling the presence or absence of the magnetic field.

[0136] Example 13

[0137] The difference between the garment processing device in this embodiment and the one described above is that the garment processing device in this embodiment includes a position correction mechanism, used to adjust the position and angle of the rotating drum when the position and angle of the rotating drum cannot meet the requirements of the operation to be performed. Preferably, the position correction mechanism has a function to detect whether the position and angle of the rotating drum are reasonable. For example, when the device needs to perform a drainage operation, the position correction mechanism detects whether the position of the drain outlet and the opening mechanism are aligned; if the result is yes, the drainage operation is performed; if the result is no, the device starts the drive device (e.g., a drive motor) connected to the rotating drum to drive the rotating drum to rotate slowly until the position correction mechanism detects that the position of the drain outlet and the opening mechanism are aligned (set position and angle), and then the drainage operation is performed.

[0138] Preferably, the position correction mechanism includes a sensor mounted on the rotating drum and rotating with it, and a Hall sensor corresponding to the sensor, positioned relatively stationary on the lower side of the rotating drum. Alternatively, the position correction mechanism includes a Hall sensor corresponding to the sensor mounted on the rotating drum and rotating with it, and a sensor corresponding to the sensor, positioned relatively stationary on the lower side of the rotating drum. This achieves the detection function.

[0139] Furthermore, the position correction mechanism in this embodiment is flexibly positioned. It can be placed near the dispensing port of the rotating bucket and the corresponding balance ring, detecting the position and angle of the rotating bucket by detecting the relative position and angle between the two. Alternatively, it can be placed near the outer side wall of the rotating bucket and the corresponding tank / water collection mechanism. Or, it can be placed near the outer side of the bottom of the rotating bucket and the bottom of the tank / water collection mechanism.

[0140] The garment processing equipment described in this embodiment incorporates a position correction mechanism. When the equipment needs to perform operations such as drainage that require specific positioning of the rotating drum, and the position and angle of the rotating drum cannot meet these requirements, the position correction mechanism detects and determines the position and angle of the rotating drum. It then activates the drive device connected to the rotating drum through the equipment's control system, causing the drum to slowly rotate and adjust its angle until the position and angle meet the specific requirements for drainage or other operations. This slow adjustment method prevents the garments inside the rotating drum from tumbling or moving, thus maintaining the drum's stability. Furthermore, the slow adjustment speed minimizes inertia and prevents the rotating drum's angle from being adjusted beyond the actual requirements.

[0141] The above description is merely a preferred embodiment of the present invention and is not intended to limit the present invention in any way. Although the present invention has been disclosed above with reference to preferred embodiments, it is not intended to limit the present invention. Any person skilled in the art can make some modifications or alterations to the above-described technical content to create equivalent embodiments without departing from the scope of the present invention. Any simple modifications, equivalent changes, and alterations made to the above embodiments based on the technical essence of the present invention without departing from the scope of the present invention shall still fall within the scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. A garment processing device, characterized in that, include: A rotating barrel capable of rotating about its axis, a drain outlet located at the lowest position of the bottom of the rotating barrel, and a sealing mechanism located at the lowest position that can open and close the drain outlet, wherein the sealing mechanism covers the drain outlet when it is in the closed state and can rotate with the rotating barrel; At least a portion of the sealing mechanism is rotatably connected to the rotating bucket, such that at least a portion of the sealing mechanism can be separated from the rotating bucket when the drain outlet is opened, while at least a portion of the sealing mechanism remains connected to the rotating bucket. The rotating barrel is equipped with an auxiliary mechanism to close the drain outlet. The auxiliary mechanism provides the sealing mechanism with a downward force to close the drain outlet. The auxiliary mechanism is a tension spring. The garment processing equipment includes an opening mechanism for opening the sealing mechanism. The opening mechanism includes a push rod that acts on the sealing mechanism to move the sealing mechanism upward to open the drain outlet and a drive unit that drives the push rod to move up and down. The garment processing equipment also includes a positioning mechanism, which includes a first positioning part disposed on the rotating drum and a second positioning part corresponding to the first positioning part. The first positioning part rotates with the rotating drum, and there is a gap between the second positioning part and the first positioning part. When the angle or position of the rotating drum is within a certain range, a magnetic field is generated between the first positioning part and the second positioning part, and the two attract each other, gradually slowing down the rotation of the rotating drum and positioning the rotating drum at a specific position or angle.

2. The garment processing equipment according to claim 1, characterized in that, The rotating barrel is connected to at least one end of the sealing mechanism via the auxiliary mechanism, and the auxiliary mechanism is always kept in a state that tends to close the sealing mechanism.

3. The garment processing equipment according to claim 1, characterized in that, At least a portion of the sealing mechanism is disposed on the inner side of the rotating barrel.

4. The garment processing equipment according to claim 3, characterized in that, The coverage area of ​​the sealing mechanism is larger than the opening area of ​​the drain outlet.

5. The garment processing equipment according to claim 3, characterized in that, The number of the sealing mechanism and / or drain outlet is at least one.

6. The garment processing equipment according to claim 1, characterized in that, When blocking the drain outlet, the blocking mechanism is embedded in the bottom of the rotating barrel, and the side of the blocking mechanism facing the center of the rotating barrel is not higher than the inner surface of the rotating barrel.

7. The garment processing equipment according to claim 6, characterized in that, The side of the sealing mechanism facing the center of the rotating barrel is flush with the bottom surface of the rotating barrel.

8. The garment processing equipment according to claim 7, characterized in that, When the sealing mechanism is in the open state, the side of it facing the center of the rotating barrel is not higher than the bottom surface of the rotating barrel.

9. The garment processing equipment according to claim 6, characterized in that, The rotating barrel is positioned in a groove relative to the sealing mechanism, and the sealing mechanism and the drain outlet are located within the groove.

10. The garment processing equipment according to claim 1, characterized in that, The sealing mechanism is made of an elastic material.

11. The garment processing equipment according to claim 1, characterized in that, The sealing mechanism is a plate-shaped structure.

12. The garment processing equipment according to claim 1, characterized in that, When the sealing mechanism is flipped relative to the rotating barrel, at least a portion of the drain outlet is opened.

13. The garment processing equipment according to claim 1, characterized in that, The opening mechanism is located below the rotating drum, corresponding to the sealing mechanism. When the equipment drains water, the sealing mechanism opens the drain outlet under the action of the opening mechanism, allowing water to be discharged from the rotating drum.

14. The garment processing equipment according to claim 13, characterized in that, When the device drains water, at least a portion of the opening mechanism passes through the drain outlet and pushes the sealing mechanism upward, causing at least a portion of the drain outlet to open and drain water from the rotating bucket.

15. The garment processing equipment according to claim 13, characterized in that, When the equipment drains water, the drive unit drives the top rod to lift the sealing mechanism upward.

16. The garment processing equipment according to claim 1, characterized in that, The sealing mechanism protrudes towards the drain outlet relative to its position, the protrusion is embedded in the drain outlet, and the maximum radial dimension of the protrusion is not greater than the dimension of the drain outlet in that direction.

17. The garment processing equipment according to claim 16, characterized in that, The protrusion has a conical structure, and its radial dimension gradually decreases on the side away from the interior of the rotating barrel.

18. The garment processing equipment according to claim 16, characterized in that, The radial cross-sectional shape of the protrusion is the same as the cross-sectional shape of the drain outlet in that direction.

19. The garment processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 18, characterized in that, The rotating drum is equipped with a dehydration mechanism, which includes a dehydration hole located on the upper part of the peripheral wall of the rotating drum.

20. The garment processing equipment according to claim 19, characterized in that, The dehydration mechanism also includes a water guide component located on the peripheral wall of the rotating drum, which guides water from top to bottom. The upper end of the water guide component is connected to the dehydration hole, and the lower end drains water to the outside of the rotating drum.

21. The garment processing equipment according to claim 20, characterized in that, The water guide has a cavity or groove structure inside that allows water to flow. The cavity or groove structure covers the dewatering hole on the peripheral wall of the rotating barrel, so that the water flowing out of the dewatering hole can be discharged along the water guide. Alternatively, the water guide is fastened to the peripheral wall of the rotating barrel and cooperates with the peripheral wall of the rotating barrel to form a cavity or groove structure that allows water to flow.

22. The garment processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 18, characterized in that, The rotating drum is equipped with a dehydration mechanism, which includes a dehydration hole located on the lower part of the rotating drum's peripheral wall or the bottom of the rotating drum, and a water guide component located on the rotating drum's peripheral wall that guides water from top to bottom. The upper end of the water guide component is connected to the inside of the rotating drum, and the lower end is connected to the dehydration hole to drain water to the outside of the rotating drum.

23. The garment processing equipment according to claim 22, characterized in that, The water guide has a cavity or groove structure inside that allows water to flow, or the water guide is fastened to the peripheral wall of the rotating barrel and cooperates with the peripheral wall of the rotating barrel to form a cavity or groove structure that allows water to flow.

24. The garment processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 18, characterized in that, The device includes a water collection mechanism disposed on the outside of the rotating barrel and at least covering the bottom of the rotating barrel.

25. The garment processing equipment according to claim 24, characterized in that, A certain gap is left between the water collection mechanism and the rotating bucket, and the water collection mechanism has a groove structure.

26. The garment processing equipment according to claim 24, characterized in that, The opening mechanism is located on the water collection mechanism.

27. The garment processing equipment according to claim 24, characterized in that, The water collection mechanism covers at least a portion of the dehydration mechanism provided on the rotating barrel along the axial direction of the rotating barrel.

28. The garment processing equipment according to claim 24, characterized in that, The bottom of the water collection mechanism is equipped with a drainage mechanism to discharge the water collected by the water collection mechanism from the equipment.

29. The garment processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 18, characterized in that, The garment processing device includes a locking mechanism for locking the position and angle of the rotating drum. The locking mechanism includes a first locking part disposed on the outer side of the bottom of the rotating drum, and a retractable second locking part disposed below the first locking part. The first locking part rotates with the rotating drum, and a certain gap is left between the first locking part and the second locking part. When the device performs a locking operation on the rotating drum, at least a portion of the second locking part rises, stops, engages, or slides into the first locking part, thereby locking the rotating drum. When the device performs an unlocking operation on the rotating drum, the second locking part descends and separates from the first locking part.

30. The garment processing equipment according to claim 29, characterized in that, The second locking part achieves locking by squeezing the first locking part and increasing the friction between the two.

31. The garment processing equipment according to claim 29, characterized in that, The first locking part is provided with raised ribs distributed radially along the rotating barrel. When locking the rotating barrel, the second locking part engages with one side of the raised ribs.

32. The garment processing equipment according to claim 29, characterized in that, The first locking part is provided with a groove-shaped structure along the rotation direction of the rotating barrel. The side of the groove-shaped structure opposite to the rotation direction of the rotating barrel is an opening that allows the second locking part to slide in, and the other end is closed, so that the second locking part slides along the groove-shaped structure and stops against the first locking part at the closed end of the groove-shaped structure.

33. The garment processing equipment according to claim 29, characterized in that, The first locking part is a concave structure or eyelet structure that recesses into the inside of the rotating barrel, allowing the second locking part to engage. The second locking part rises and engages or inserts into the concave structure or eyelet structure to lock the rotating barrel.

34. The garment processing equipment according to claim 29, characterized in that, At least a portion of the first locking part and / or the second locking part is a magnetic element and / or a material that can be attracted by magnetism, so that when the distance between the two is shortened and they are within the range of the magnetic field, they tend to attract each other.

35. The garment processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 18, characterized in that, The first positioning part is located on the outer side of the bottom of the rotating barrel.

36. The garment processing equipment according to claim 1, characterized in that, At least a portion of the first positioning part and / or the second positioning part is a magnetic element. The second positioning part is a retractable structure that can extend or retract toward the first positioning part. The positioning condition is that the second positioning part extends toward the first positioning part, so that the two are within the range of the magnetic field and thus attract each other.

37. The garment processing equipment according to claim 1, characterized in that, At least a portion of the first positioning part is made of a material that can be magnetically attracted or a magnetic conductor, and at least a portion of the second positioning part is made of a magnetic conductor or a material that can be magnetically attracted. The positioning condition is to energize the second positioning part or at least a portion of the first positioning part so that it generates a magnetic field and generates an attractive force on the first positioning part or the second positioning part.

38. The garment processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 18, characterized in that, The garment processing equipment includes a position correction mechanism that detects the position and angle of the rotating drum. When the position and angle of the rotating drum do not meet the preset conditions of the operation to be performed, the position correction mechanism adjusts the position and angle of the rotating drum until the preset conditions are met.

39. The garment processing equipment according to claim 38, characterized in that, When the equipment needs to perform a drainage operation, the position correction mechanism detects whether the position of the drain outlet is aligned with the position of the opening mechanism. If the result is yes, the drainage operation is performed. If the result is no, the equipment starts the drive device connected to the rotating barrel that drives the rotating barrel to rotate, so that the rotating barrel rotates slowly until the position correction mechanism detects that the position of the drain outlet is aligned with the position of the opening mechanism, and then the drainage operation is performed.

40. The garment processing equipment according to claim 38, characterized in that, The position correction mechanism includes a sensor disposed on the rotating barrel and rotating with the rotating barrel, and a Hall sensor corresponding to the sensor disposed on the lower side of the rotating barrel and stationary relative to the sensor; Alternatively, the position correction mechanism may include a Hall sensor corresponding to the sensor, which is disposed on the rotating barrel and rotates with the rotating barrel, and a sensor corresponding to the sensor, which is disposed on the lower side of the rotating barrel and is relatively stationary.

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