Clothes treatment device

Abstract

The present invention discloses a clothing treatment device, comprising: a water tub; a detergent box, a detergent cavity for containing detergent is defined in the detergent box, the detergent box has a washing inlet and a washing outlet, the washing outlet is connected to the water tub; a microbubble generator, the microbubble generator is connected to the detergent box or the water tub, the microbubble generator has an air dissolving cavity, an inlet, an outlet and an auxiliary port connected to the air dissolving cavity, and a control valve is provided at the auxiliary port for controlling the on-off of the auxiliary port. According to the clothing treatment device of an embodiment of the present invention, the on-off of the auxiliary port is controlled by the control valve, and combined with the outlet of the air dissolving cavity, not only can the residual water in the air dissolving cavity of the microbubble generator be drained, but also air can be added to the air dissolving cavity, so that the air dissolving cavity quickly returns to normal pressure, and it is ensured that the microbubble generator can dissolve enough air when it is used next time.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to the technical field of clothing processing, and in particular to a clothing processing device. Background Art

[0002] At present, microbubble technology is mainly used in the field of environmental protection, and there are also cases of application in household areas such as skin care, showers, and clothing treatment devices. Most of the current microbubble generators have complex structures, some require additional water pumps, and some require multiple valves for control. At the same time, there are many restrictions on the water entry method, resulting in high costs. Summary of the invention

[0003] The present invention aims to solve at least one of the technical problems existing in the prior art. To this end, one object of the present invention is to provide a clothes treating device, which has a simple structure, low cost and good microbubble production effect.

[0004] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a clothes treating device comprises: a water tub; a detergent box, wherein a detergent cavity for containing detergent is defined in the detergent box, the detergent box has a washing inlet and a washing outlet, and the washing outlet is connected to the water tub; a micro-bubble generator, the micro-bubble generator is connected to the detergent box or the water tub, the micro-bubble generator has an air dissolving cavity, an inlet and an outlet communicated with the air dissolving cavity, and an auxiliary port, wherein a control valve is provided at the auxiliary port for controlling the on-off of the auxiliary port.

[0005] According to the clothing processing device of the embodiment of the present invention, a control valve is provided at the auxiliary port of the microbubble generator to control the on-off of the auxiliary port, and combined with the outlet of the air dissolving chamber, it can not only ensure that the residual water in the air dissolving chamber of the microbubble generator can be drained, but also replenish air into the air dissolving chamber, so that the air dissolving chamber can quickly restore normal pressure, ensuring that the microbubble generator can dissolve enough air when it is used next time.

[0006] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the auxiliary port is located below the outlet and is used for drainage.

[0007] In some embodiments, the auxiliary port is connected to a main drain pipe of the water tub or the clothes treating apparatus.

[0008] In some embodiments, the bottom of the detergent box has a water inlet manifold connected to the washing outlet, and the water inlet manifold is located downstream of the washing outlet in the flow direction of the water flow, wherein the water inlet manifold is connected to the water tub, the auxiliary port is connected to the water inlet manifold, and the auxiliary port is connected to the water tub through the water inlet manifold.

[0009] In some embodiments, the outlet is connected to the washing inlet through at least a first microbubble pipe.

[0010] According to another embodiment of the present invention, the auxiliary port is located above the outlet and the auxiliary port is used for air intake.

[0011] In some embodiments, an air return channel is defined in the detergent box, and the air return channel is connected to the auxiliary port.

[0012] In some embodiments, the bottom of the detergent box has a water inlet manifold connected to the washing outlet, and the water inlet manifold is located downstream of the washing outlet in the flow direction of the water flow, wherein the water inlet manifold is connected to the water tub, and the outlet is connected to the water inlet manifold at least through a second microbubble pipe, and the outlet is connected to the water tub through the second microbubble pipe and the water inlet manifold.

[0013] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the micro-bubble generator includes a cavitation element, and the cavitation element is connected to the outlet, or the cavitation element is arranged at the outlet, and the cavitation element is connected to the detergent box or the water tub.

[0014] In some embodiments, at least one venturi channel is formed in the cavitation member.

[0015] In some embodiments, the cavitation member is cylindrical, a diversion groove and a confluence groove are formed at two ends of the cavitation member respectively, and a plurality of the Venturi channels are formed between the bottom wall of the diversion groove and the bottom wall of the confluence groove.

[0016] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the microbubble generator is configured such that the water outlet flow rate is smaller than the water inlet flow rate when dissolving air.

[0017] Additional aspects and advantages of the present invention will be given in part in the following description and in part will be obvious from the following description, or will be learned through practice of the present invention. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0018] The above and / or additional aspects and advantages of the present invention will become apparent and easily understood from the description of the embodiments in conjunction with the following drawings, in which:

[0019] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of the connection between a microbubble generator and a main water inlet pipe according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0020] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 Schematic diagram of the connection between the micro-bubble generator, the main water inlet pipe and the detergent box shown in ;

[0021] Figure 3 yes Figure 2 Schematic diagram of water vapor path of the structure shown in ;

[0022] Figure 4 is a schematic diagram of the connection between a micro-bubble generator, a main water inlet pipe, and a detergent box according to another embodiment of the present invention;

[0023] Figure 5 is along Figure 4 Sectional view along line AA;

[0024] Figure 6 is a schematic diagram of the connection between a micro-bubble generator, a main water inlet pipe, and a detergent box according to another embodiment of the present invention;

[0025] Figure 7 yes Figure 6 A schematic diagram of the structure shown in another perspective;

[0026] Figure 8 yes Figure 6 A top view of the structure shown in ;

[0027] Fig. 9 is a schematic diagram of a water vapor path of a micro-bubble generator and a detergent box after assembly according to another embodiment of the present invention at a viewing angle;

[0028] Fig.10 yes Fig. 9 Schematic diagram of water vapor path from another perspective of the structure shown in;

[0029] Fig.11 yes Fig. 9 The structural schematic diagram of the microbubble generator shown in;

[0030] Fig.12 is a schematic diagram of the connection between a micro-bubble generator and a detergent box at a viewing angle according to another embodiment of the present invention;

[0031] Fig.13 yes Fig.12 Schematic diagram of the connection between the micro-bubble generator, detergent box and drain pipe shown in ;

[0032] Fig.14 yes Fig.12 A schematic diagram of the structure shown in another perspective;

[0033] Fig.15 yes Fig.14 An enlarged view of the D portion shown in;

[0034] Fig.16 yes Fig.12 A schematic diagram of the structure shown in yet another viewing angle;

[0035] Fig.17is a schematic structural diagram of a microbubble generator according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0036] Fig.18 is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of a gas dissolving tank according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0037] Fig.19 is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of a gas dissolving tank according to another embodiment of the present invention;

[0038] Fig. 20 is a schematic structural diagram of a venturi tube according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0039] Fig.21 is a schematic structural diagram of an orifice plate according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0040] Fig. 22 is a three-dimensional diagram of a cavitation member according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0041] Fig.23 yes Fig. 22 Another perspective view of the cavitation member shown;

[0042] Fig.24 yes Fig.23 A schematic cross-sectional view of the cavitation member shown;

[0043] Fig.25 is a schematic structural diagram of a cavitation member according to another embodiment of the present invention;

[0044] Fig.26 is a control logic diagram of a clothes processing device according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0045] Fig. 27 is a control logic diagram of a clothes processing device according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0046] Reference numerals:

[0047] Micro bubble generator 100, water inlet 101, water outlet 102,

[0048] Dissolving gas tank 1, dissolving gas chamber 10, inlet 11, outlet 12,

[0049] Dissolved gas half shell 13, water inlet pipe 14, water outlet pipe 15, step surface 16, reinforcing rib 17, auxiliary port 18,

[0050] Fixed ear 191, first fixed ear 1911, second fixed ear 1912, third fixed ear 1913,

[0051] The connecting portion 1914, the first connecting hole 1915, the second connecting hole 1916, the third connecting hole 1917, the mounting ear 192,

[0052] Cavitation element 2, water chamber 20, cavitation inlet 21, cavitation outlet 22, cavitation shell 23, threaded section 231, cavitation ball 24, venturi channel 25, gradually contracting section 251, throat 252, gradually expanding section 253, diverter slot 261, confluence slot 262, venturi tube 28, orifice plate 29,

[0053] Baffle 3, gap 31,

[0054] Control valve 4,

[0055] Inlet manifold 51, connecting joint 511, first microbubble connecting pipe 521, second microbubble connecting pipe 522, drain pipe 53, hoop 54,

[0056] The main water inlet pipe 200, the water inlet valve 210, the first branch pipe 211, the second branch pipe 212, the third branch pipe 213,

[0057] Detergent box 300 , air return channel 301 , first washing inlet 311 , second washing inlet 313 , hook 314 , slot 3141 , guide surface 3142 , and reinforcing rib 3143 . DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0058] Embodiments of the present invention are described in detail below, examples of which are shown in the accompanying drawings, wherein the same or similar reference numerals throughout represent the same or similar elements or elements having the same or similar functions. The embodiments described below with reference to the accompanying drawings are exemplary and are only used to explain the present invention, and cannot be understood as limiting the present invention.

[0059] Reference below Figure 1-Figure 27 The laundry processing device according to the embodiment of the present invention is described. The laundry processing device here can be a drum washing machine, a pulsator washing machine, a washer-dryer, or other types of devices, which are not limited here.

[0060] like Figure 1-Figure 11 As shown, the laundry treatment device according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a water tub (not shown), a detergent box 300 and a micro-bubble generator 100. The water tub is a barrel body for treating laundry, for example, the water tub can be the inner drum of a drum washing machine, or the water tub of a pulsator washing machine, etc. A detergent cavity is defined in the detergent box 300 for containing detergent, and the detergent box 300 has a washing inlet and a washing outlet, the washing inlet can be connected to the main water inlet pipe 200 of the laundry treatment device, and the washing outlet can be connected to the water tub, so that the detergent is put into the water tub.

[0061] Furthermore, the microbubble generator 100 is used to produce microbubble water, and the produced microbubble water can be used to participate in the washing process of clothes, can also be used to participate in the rinsing process of clothes, and can also participate in other processes of the clothing processing device that require the use of microbubble water, such as cleaning the sealing ring, cleaning dirt, etc. Specifically, the microbubble generator 100 is installed on the detergent box 300, the water inlet 101 of the microbubble generator 100 is connected to the main water inlet pipe 200 of the clothing processing device, and the water outlet 102 of the microbubble generator 100 is connected to the detergent box 300 or the water tub.

[0062] According to the laundry treatment device of the embodiment of the present invention, by using the microbubble generator 100 and installing the microbubble generator 100 in the detergent box 300, it is convenient to guide the prepared microbubble water into the detergent box 300 or the water tub, which is not only conducive to improving the compactness, integration and stability of the structure, but also can reduce the amount of detergent, save water and electricity resources, and reduce the residual detergent on the clothes. In addition, the above-mentioned microbubble generator 100 does not need to install multiple valves, has low cost and good microbubble production effect.

[0063] According to one embodiment of the present invention, Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, a water inlet valve 210 is provided on the main water inlet pipe 200 of the laundry processing device. The main water inlet pipe 200 is provided with a plurality of branches. The water inlet valve 210 is used to control the water inlet state of each branch.

[0064] Specifically, Figure 2 As shown, the main water inlet pipe 200 is connected to a first branch pipe 211, a second branch pipe 212, and a third branch pipe 213. The first branch pipe 211 is connected to the water inlet pipe 14, and the second branch pipe 212 and the third branch pipe 213 are both connected to the detergent box 300. The second branch pipe 212 and the third branch pipe 213 are used for main wash water inlet and pre-wash water inlet, respectively.

[0065] According to an optional embodiment of the present invention, the water outlet 102 of the microbubble generator 100 is connected to the water tub through a microbubble pipe independent of the detergent box 300, that is, the microbubble pipe has no connection with the detergent box 300, one end of the microbubble pipe is connected to the water outlet 102 of the microbubble generator 102, and the other end of the microbubble pipe is connected to the water tub, so that the microbubble water produced by the microbubble generator 100 is directly passed into the water tub, so that it participates in the dissolution of the detergent in the water tub, thereby improving the washing ratio of the clothes.

[0066] In some embodiments, Figure 3 As shown, the detergent box 300 has a water inlet manifold 51, which is communicated with the washing outlet. The water inlet manifold 51 is located downstream of the washing outlet in the flow direction of the water flow, and is connected to the water tub.

[0067] Further, the water outlet 102 of the microbubble generator 100 is connected to the water inlet manifold 51, so that the water outlet 102 of the microbubble generator 100 is connected to the water tub through the water inlet manifold 51. The mixture of detergent and water discharged from the washing outlet and the microbubble water produced by the microbubble generator 100 can be discharged from the detergent box 300 through the water inlet manifold 51 and passed into the water tub. Optionally, the water inlet manifold 51 is formed at the bottom of the detergent box 300, thereby ensuring that the residual water in the detergent box 300 can be drained.

[0068] According to another optional embodiment of the present invention, the washing inlet comprises Figure 6 The first wash inlet 311 shown and Figure 2 A second wash inlet 313 is shown.

[0069] The water outlet 102 of the microbubble generator 100 can be connected to the first washing inlet 311, so that the microbubble water produced by the microbubble generator 100 is passed into the detergent box 300, and the explosion energy of the microbubbles is used to accelerate the decomposition of the detergent into smaller portions, thereby promoting the full and rapid dissolution of the detergent, and the main water inlet pipe 200 can be connected to the second washing inlet 313, so that the raw water is directly passed into the detergent box 300.

[0070] Thus, microbubble water can be introduced into the detergent box 300 by utilizing the first washing inlet 311, and raw water can be introduced into the detergent box 300 by utilizing the second washing inlet 313, thereby ensuring a sufficient amount of water intake, especially when the microbubble generator 100 is slow due to dissolved air, or when microbubble water is not needed, water is introduced through the second washing inlet 313, thereby allowing microbubble water or raw water to be selectively introduced into the detergent box 300 according to actual conditions, thereby participating in the dissolution of the detergent.

[0071] Among them, Figure 6 As shown, the first washing inlet 311 is located above the water outlet 102 of the microbubble generator 100, and the water outlet 102 can be connected to the first washing inlet 311 through the first microbubble connecting pipe 521, so that the microbubble generator 100 and the detergent box 300 are arranged side by side. The first microbubble connecting pipe 521 is arranged in an S shape, which is conducive to lengthening the pipeline, so that the microbubble water flows out from the water outlet 102 and flows into the detergent cavity, and has enough digestion time, so that the microbubble generator 100 can fully produce a sufficient number of microbubbles of sufficient size.

[0072] like Figure 1-Figure 11 As shown, according to another embodiment of the clothing processing device of the present invention, the microbubble generator 100 has an air dissolving chamber 10, an inlet 11 connected to the air dissolving chamber 10, an outlet 12 and an auxiliary port 18, and a control valve 4 is provided at the auxiliary port 18, and the control valve 4 is used to control the opening and closing of the auxiliary port 18.

[0073] The inlet 11 of the air dissolving chamber 10 forms the water inlet 101 of the microbubble generator 100 , or the inlet 11 of the air dissolving chamber 10 is connected to the water inlet 101 of the microbubble generator 100 , and the outlet 12 of the air dissolving chamber 10 is connected to the water outlet 102 of the microbubble generator 100 .

[0074] According to the clothing treatment device of the embodiment of the present invention, by providing a control valve 4 at the auxiliary port 18 of the microbubble generator 100, the on-off of the auxiliary port 18 is controlled, and combined with the outlet 12 of the air dissolving chamber 10, not only can the residual water in the air dissolving chamber 10 of the microbubble generator 100 be drained, but also air can be replenished in the air dissolving chamber 10, so that the air dissolving chamber 10 quickly returns to normal pressure, ensuring that the microbubble generator 100 can dissolve enough air when it is used next time.

[0075] like Figure 1-Figure 5 As shown, in an optional embodiment of the present invention, the auxiliary port 18 is located above the outlet 12, that is, the position of the auxiliary port 18 is higher than the position of the outlet 12, and the auxiliary port 18 can be used for air intake.

[0076] For example, the microbubble generator 100 includes an air dissolving tank 1 , the inlet 11 is located at or near the top of the air dissolving tank 1 , the outlet 12 is located at or near the bottom of the air dissolving tank 1 , and the auxiliary port 18 is located at or near the top of the air dissolving tank 1 .

[0077] When the microbubble generator 100 is working, the control valve 4 is closed, water is passed into the microbubble generator 100, and the water flows through the water inlet 101 and the inlet 11 into the air dissolving chamber 10. After being processed by the microbubble generator 100, the prepared microbubble water is discharged from the water outlet 102. After each use of the microbubble generator 100, the water is stopped from being passed into the water inlet 101, and the control valve 4 is opened, and the outside air enters the air dissolving chamber 10 from the auxiliary port 18, so that the air dissolving chamber 10 quickly returns to normal pressure, ensuring that the microbubble generator 100 can dissolve enough air when it is used next time. Under the action of the pressure difference and its own gravity, the residual water in the air dissolving chamber 10 flows through the outlet 12 and the water outlet 102, and is finally completely discharged.

[0078] In some embodiments, the outlet 12 is connected to the water inlet manifold 51 at least through the second micro-bubble pipe 522, so that the outlet 12 is connected to the water tank through the second micro-bubble pipe 522 and the water inlet manifold 51. Figure 3 As shown, the water outlet 102 of the microbubble generator 100 is connected to the water inlet manifold 51 through the second microbubble connecting pipe 522. The microbubble water produced by the microbubble generator 100 is passed into the water tub through the second microbubble connecting pipe 522 and the water inlet manifold 51, and participates in the dissolution of the detergent in the water tub, etc., thereby improving the washing ratio of the clothes.

[0079] In some embodiments, Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, a return air passage 301 is defined in the detergent box 300, and the return air passage 301 is connected to the auxiliary port 18. Figure 2 and Figure 5 As can be seen, the detergent box 300 cooperates with the micro-bubble generator 100 where the control valve 4 is provided, where the auxiliary port 18 of the air dissolving tank 1 is connected to the channel port of the return air channel 301 on the detergent box 300.

[0080] The setting of the return air channel 301 can facilitate sufficient air to be filled into the air dissolving chamber 10 after the auxiliary port 18 is opened. It is conceivable that the microbubble generator 100 and the detergent box 300 are encapsulated in the shell of the clothing treatment device, and various components are arranged in the shell. The dense arrangement of the components may block the auxiliary port 18 or cause poor air filling. The setting of the return air channel 301 is equivalent to pre-storing air in the detergent box 300. Once the auxiliary port 18 is opened, air can be supplied immediately, which can avoid the problem of insufficient air supply due to installation space limitations or installation sealing requirements.

[0081] Moreover, the arrangement of the return air channel 301 can also prevent the water from splashing outwards due to excessive pressure in the air dissolving tank 1 when the auxiliary port 18 is opened. In addition, if splashing occurs, the return air channel 301 is also a diversion channel, which can guide the sprayed water back to the air dissolving tank 1, or guide it to other parts for discharge, such as the detergent chamber or the main drain pipe.

[0082] It should be noted here that the return air channel 301 can also be arranged on the microbubble generator 100, for example, the return air channel 301 can be formed on the air dissolving tank 1. Here, the return air channel 301 is arranged in the detergent box 300. On the one hand, the detergent box 300 has a large space and many circuits, and does not need to occupy the space in the microbubble generator 100 (because air dissolution requires a certain space), and can also make full use of the idle space in the detergent box 300 (the detergent box 300 has many flow paths and a large idle space). On the other hand, the length of the return air channel 301 can be lengthened, which has a buffering effect on air replenishment and water spraying. The detergent box 300 of some clothing processing devices is provided with an air hole connected to the outside of the clothing processing device. At this time, the air hole is used to replenish air to prevent insufficient air supply. Of course, when the return air channel 301 is arranged on the air dissolving tank 1, the return air channel 301 can also be directly connected to the air hole on the clothing processing device.

[0083] In some examples, the air return channel 301 is isolated from the detergent chamber, and this arrangement can avoid turbulent flow in the water channels inside the air dissolving tank 1 and the detergent box 300.

[0084] Alternatively, if Figure 5 As shown, the air return channel 301 is located above the air dissolving chamber 10. This arrangement is so that when water sprays out from the auxiliary port 18, the air return channel 301 can collect the sprayed water and return it to the air dissolving tank 1.

[0085] like Figures 6 to 11 As shown, in another optional embodiment of the present invention, the auxiliary port 18 is located below the outlet 12, that is, the position of the auxiliary port 18 is lower than the position of the outlet 12, and even the auxiliary port 18 is located at the lowest point of the dissolved gas tank 1, and the auxiliary port 18 can be used for drainage.

[0086] When the microbubble generator 100 is working, the control valve 4 is closed, and water is passed into the microbubble generator 100. The water flows through the water inlet 101 and the inlet 11 into the air dissolving chamber 10. After being processed by the microbubble generator 100, the prepared microbubble water is discharged from the water outlet 102 to be passed into the detergent box 300 or the water bucket. After each use of the microbubble generator 100, the water is stopped from being passed into the water inlet 101, and the control valve 4 is opened. When the water level drops to a position where the outlet 12 is exposed, the outside air can enter the air dissolving chamber 10 from the outlet 12 in the normally open state, so that the air dissolving chamber 10 quickly returns to normal pressure, ensuring that the microbubble generator 100 can dissolve enough air when it is used next time. Since the auxiliary port 18 is in a conducting state and the position of the auxiliary port 18 is lower than the position of the outlet 12, the residual water in the air dissolving chamber 10 is discharged from the auxiliary port 18 due to the pressure difference and the gravity of the residual water, and finally the residual water in the air dissolving chamber 10 is completely discharged.

[0087] In a further embodiment, the outlet 12 is connected to the washing inlet at least through the first micro-bubble pipe 521. Figure 6 As shown, the water outlet 102 is connected to the washing inlet through the first micro-bubble connecting pipe 521, so that the micro-bubble water produced by the micro-bubble generator 100 is passed into the detergent box 300 to participate in the dissolution of the detergent in the washing box.

[0088] For example, the auxiliary port 18 can be connected to a water tub, so that the residual water in the air dissolving chamber 10 is discharged into the water tub, and the air in the water tub can also enter the air dissolving chamber 10 through the auxiliary port 18. For another example, the auxiliary port 18 can also be connected to the main drain pipe of the clothing processing device, so that the residual water in the air dissolving chamber 10 is discharged to the outside through the main drain pipe. Since the main drain pipe is located at the bottom of the clothing processing device, and the water tub has a large volume and a low bottom wall, the auxiliary port 18 is connected to the water tub or the main drain pipe, the water level height difference is large, and the drainage is faster.

[0089] like Figure 7 as well as Figure 9-10As shown, in this embodiment, the first washing inlet 311 is connected to the first microbubble pipe 521 of the water outlet 102 of the microbubble generator 100, the second washing inlet 313 is suitable for being connected to the main water inlet pipe 200 for pre-wash water inlet, and the auxiliary port 18 is connected to the water inlet manifold 51 at the bottom of the detergent box 300, so that the auxiliary port 18 is connected to the water tub through the water inlet manifold 51, and the residual water discharged from the auxiliary port 18 can be discharged from the detergent box 300 through the water inlet manifold 51 and finally passed into the water tub.

[0090] like Figure 1 as well as Figures 12 to 16 As shown, in a laundry treating apparatus according to yet another embodiment of the present invention, the micro-bubble generator 100 is detachably mounted behind the detergent box 300, and the micro-bubble generator 100 is connected to the detergent box 300 or the water tub.

[0091] According to the laundry processing device of the embodiment of the present invention, by detachably installing the microbubble generator 100 behind the detergent box 300, the arrangement of the microbubble generator 100 does not affect the use of the detergent box 300, and the prepared microbubble water can be conveniently guided to the detergent box 300 or the water tub, which is not only conducive to improving the compactness, integration and stability of the structure, but also can reduce the amount of detergent used, save water and electricity resources, and reduce the detergent residue on the clothes.

[0092] In order to well integrate the micro-bubble generator 100 with the detergent box 300 , the micro-bubble generator 100 may be disposed substantially flush with the top of the detergent box 300 , and the micro-bubble generator 100 may be disposed substantially flush with the bottom of the detergent box 300 .

[0093] like Figure 1 As shown, according to one embodiment of the present invention, the air dissolving tank 1 of the microbubble generator 100 is further provided with a mounting ear 192, and the mounting ear 192 is used to connect to the body of the clothing processing device, which can further improve the installation reliability of the integrated component.

[0094] In some embodiments, Figure 1 As shown, a plurality of fixing ears 191 are provided on the gas dissolving tank 1 of the microbubble generator 100, and each fixing ear 191 is connected to the detergent box 300. For example, each fixing ear 191 is connected to the detergent box 300 by a fastener penetrating through a connecting hole. This arrangement can ensure the reliability of the integrated connection between the microbubble generator 100 and the detergent box 300. After the integrated connection, the anti-seismic performance will be significantly enhanced. In addition, the microbubble generator 100 and the detergent box 300 are both water-passing parts, and combining the two in an integrated volume is conducive to improving the stability of the overall structure.

[0095] In some embodiments, each fixing ear 191 is provided with a connecting hole, and the center lines of at least a portion of the multiple connecting holes are arranged perpendicular to each other, so that the microbubble generator 100 can be fixed from multiple directions to ensure the connection reliability between the microbubble generator 100 and the detergent box 300.

[0096] In some embodiments, Figure 1 As shown, at least one fixing ear 191 is a first fixing ear 1911, and the first fixing ear 1911 extends in the front-to-back direction, that is, the first fixing ear 1911 extends toward one side of the detergent box 300, wherein a first connecting hole 1915 is provided at the front end of the first fixing ear 1911, and the first fixing ear 1911 is connected to the detergent box 300 via a first fastener penetrating through the first connecting hole 1915.

[0097] In some examples, such as Figure 1 As shown, at least one fixing ear 191 is a second fixing ear 1912, and the second fixing ear 1912 extends in the front-to-back direction, wherein a second connecting hole 1916 is provided at the front end of the second fixing ear 1912, and the second fixing ear 1912 is connected to the detergent box 300 via a second fastener passing through the second connecting hole 1916.

[0098] In some specific examples, the extension direction of the center line of the first connection hole 1915 is different from the extension direction of the center line of the second connection hole 1916. In this embodiment, the center line of the first connection hole 1915 extends in the up-down direction, and the center line of the second connection hole 1916 extends in the left-right direction, thereby fixing the micro-bubble generator 100 from the up-down direction and the left-right direction by two fasteners, further ensuring the connection reliability between the micro-bubble generator 100 and the detergent box 300.

[0099] In a further embodiment, Figure 1 As shown, at least one fixing ear 191 is a third fixing ear 1913, and the third fixing ear 1913 has a width direction (such as Figure 1 The connecting portion 1914 is provided with a third connecting hole 1917 whose center line extends in the front-to-back direction, and the third fixing ear 1913 is connected to the detergent box 300 through a third fastener penetrating the third connecting hole 1917. Thus, the microbubble generator 100 is fixed from the up-down direction, the left-right direction, and the front-to-back direction by three fasteners, further ensuring the connection reliability between the microbubble generator 100 and the detergent box 300.

[0100] like Figures 12 to 16As shown, according to one embodiment of the present invention, the microbubble generator 100 has an air dissolving chamber 10, an inlet 11, an outlet 12 and an auxiliary port 18 connected to the air dissolving chamber 10, and a control valve 4 is provided at the auxiliary port 18 for controlling the on-off of the auxiliary port 18. The outlet 12 or the auxiliary port 18 is connected to the water tank at least through a drain pipe 53.

[0101] For example, the outlet 12 of the gas dissolving chamber 10 can be connected to a water bucket through a drain pipe 53, so that the prepared microbubble water can be discharged into the water bucket; for another example, the auxiliary port 18 can be connected to a water bucket through a drain pipe 53, which is conducive to draining the residual water in the microbubble generator 100.

[0102] In some embodiments, Fig.13 As shown, one end of the drain pipe 53 is connected to the water inlet manifold 51, and the other end of the drain pipe 53 is connected to the outlet 12 or the auxiliary port 18. Optionally, the drain pipe 53 is a hose.

[0103] In some examples, the side wall of the water inlet manifold 51 is provided with a connecting joint 511 protruding outward, one end of the drain pipe 53 is sleeved on the connecting joint 511, and the drain pipe 53 is connected to the connecting joint 511 through an adjustable hoop or a tie, and the other end of the drain pipe 53 can also be connected to the microbubble generator 100 through an adjustable hoop or a tie, and the connection is convenient and reliable.

[0104] In some optional embodiments, the auxiliary port 18 is arranged below the outlet 12, and the auxiliary port 18 is connected to the water bucket through the drain pipe 53, which is not only conducive to draining the residual water in the air dissolving chamber 10, but also allows the outside air to enter the air dissolving chamber 10 through the outlet 12, so that the air dissolving chamber 10 can quickly restore normal pressure, which is convenient for the next use of the microbubble generator 100.

[0105] In other optional embodiments, the auxiliary port 18 is disposed above the outlet 12, and the outlet 12 is connected to the water tub via a drain pipe 53, so that the microbubble water produced by the microbubble generator 100 is passed into the water tub via the drain pipe 53, and participates in the dissolution of detergent in the water tub.

[0106] In some embodiments, Fig.14 and Fig.15 As shown, a slot 3141 is provided at the bottom of the detergent box 300, and the drain pipe 53 is suitable for sliding into the slot 3141 from a side opening of the slot 3141, thereby fixing the drain pipe 53 at the bottom of the detergent box 300, avoiding the drain pipe 53 from shaking significantly and affecting the connection effect, thereby ensuring the reliability of the drain pipe 53.

[0107] In some examples, such as Fig.15As shown, a guide surface 3142 is provided at the opening of the slot 3141, and the guide surface 3142 gradually extends from the outside of the slot 3141 to the inside of the slot 3141 toward the center of the opening, so as to facilitate sliding the drain pipe 53 from the opening into the slot 3141, and the installation is convenient.

[0108] exist Fig.15 In the illustrated embodiment, a hook 314 is provided at the bottom of the detergent box 300, and the hook 314 defines a slot 3141, wherein a reinforcing rib 3143 is provided on the side of the hook 314 facing away from the slot 3141, and one end of the reinforcing rib 3143 extends to the bottom of the detergent box 300. By providing the reinforcing rib 3143 on the side of the hook 314 facing away from the slot 3141, the structural strength of the hook 314 can be ensured, thereby ensuring the installation reliability of the drain pipe 53.

[0109] The specific structure and working principle of the microbubble generator 100 are described in detail below.

[0110] like Fig.17 and Fig.18 As shown, the micro bubble generator 100 comprises an air dissolving tank 1 and a cavitation element 2. An air dissolving chamber 10 is defined in the air dissolving tank 1, and the air dissolving tank 1 has an inlet 11 and an outlet 12 for water flow in and out.

[0111] The inlet 11 of the gas dissolving tank 1 forms the water inlet 101 of the micro-bubble generator 100, or the inlet 11 of the gas dissolving tank 1 is connected to the water inlet 101, and the inlet 11 is connected to a water source (for example, a main water inlet pipe 200 of a clothes processing device). The water outlet 102 of the micro-bubble generator 100 is formed on the cavitation element 2, and the cavitation element 2 is arranged outside the gas dissolving tank 1 and connected to the outlet 12, or the cavitation element 2 is arranged at the outlet 12, and the cavitation element 2 converts the gas dissolved in water into micro-bubbles through the cavitation effect.

[0112] In some embodiments, the gas dissolving tank 1 further includes an auxiliary port 18 connected to the gas dissolving chamber 10, and the auxiliary port 18 switches between an on state and an off state. When the auxiliary port 18 switches to the on state, the auxiliary port 18 is connected to the gas dissolving chamber 10. Further, the microbubble generator 100 further includes a control valve 4, which is disposed at the auxiliary port 18 and is used to control the on and off of the auxiliary port 18.

[0113] When the microbubble generator 100 is in use, the control valve 4 closes the auxiliary port 18, and water and dissolved air enter from the inlet 11, thereby forming water containing a high concentration of air solutes. The water containing a high concentration of air solutes enters the cavitation element 2, and the cavitation element 2 uses the cavitation effect to form microbubbles. The water flow discharged from the cavitation element 2 contains a large number of microbubbles, that is, microbubble water is produced. After the microbubble generator 100 is used, the control valve 4 opens the auxiliary port 18.

[0114] The prepared microbubble water can be used for many purposes such as washing. If the water contains detergents such as washing powder and laundry liquid, the bursting energy of the microbubbles can accelerate the decomposition of the detergent into smaller portions, thereby promoting the full and rapid dissolution of the detergent. Therefore, the microbubble water generated by the microbubble generator 100 can be passed into the detergent box 300 to participate in the dissolution of the detergent, or can be passed into the water bucket to participate in the dissolution of the detergent, or can be passed into other parts of the clothing treatment device to participate in the full dissolution of the detergent. If the stains on the clothes are relatively stubborn, it is difficult to remove the stains only by dissolving the detergent or by the friction between the clothes. The microbubble water generated by the microbubble generator 100 can participate in the washing of clothes, and the ability to remove dirt from the clothes is enhanced by the bursting energy of the microbubbles. Similarly, when the microbubble water participates in the rinsing process, the bursting energy of the microbubbles can make the detergent stained on the clothes dissolve in the water as soon as possible to avoid clothing residues. In addition, the enhanced ability of the microbubble water helps to save the water consumption of the clothing treatment device.

[0115] like Fig.18 As shown, in the embodiment of the present invention, the inlet 11 of the air dissolving tank 1 is located above the outlet 12, and the inlet 11 and the outlet 12 are staggered in the horizontal direction. Moreover, the microbubble generator 100 is configured such that the water outlet flow rate is less than the water inlet flow rate when dissolving air, that is, less water is discharged and more water is in per unit time. Water is injected into the air dissolving tank 1 from the inlet 11. Since the water inlet flow rate is greater than the water outlet flow rate, the water level in the air dissolving chamber 10 gradually rises after water is injected into the air dissolving tank 1 for a period of time. After the water level in the air dissolving chamber 10 rises, it will soon cover the outlet 12, so that a water seal is formed at the outlet 12. The upper cavity of the air dissolving chamber 10 gradually increases the pressure to form a high-pressure chamber, making it difficult for air in a non-dissolved state to be discharged. The solubility of air in a high-pressure state is greater than that in a low-pressure state. Therefore, the solubility of air in the air dissolving chamber 10 in water will be greatly increased, thereby completing the air dissolution. A large amount of air is dissolved in the water flowing to the cavitation element 2, so that the cavitation element 2 can produce a large number of microbubbles.

[0116] It should be emphasized here that although the outlet 12 still drains water to the cavitation element 2 after the water seal is formed at the outlet 12, the inlet 11 still continuously flows in water, so the water level in the dissolved air chamber 10 continues to rise, resulting in a gradual decrease in the air space above the water surface. When the air pressure in the dissolved air tank 1 gradually rises to a level close to the inlet water pressure, the outlet flow rate is equal to the inlet flow rate.

[0117] In addition, since the inlet 11 is located above the outlet 12, when water enters the inlet 11, the water rushes toward the water surface from above, causing the water surface to be agitated, and at the same time, some high-pressure air is brought in, which can increase the dynamic contact area between air and water. Moreover, since the inlet 11 and the outlet 12 are staggered in the horizontal direction, the flow path of the water flow in the air dissolving chamber 10 is longer, which reduces the bubbles generated by the impact of the incoming water flow and being carried away by the water flow and flowing out from the outlet 12, and increases the dissolution time and contact area of ​​the excited bubbles in the water body.

[0118] Compared with the solution in the prior art that a water flow excitation plate is arranged between the inlet 11 and the outlet 12, the embodiment of the present invention can achieve the same effect by simply staggering the inlet 11 and the outlet 12 in the horizontal direction, and using the bottom wall or the water surface of the air dissolving chamber 10 as the water flow excitation plate. In the air dissolving chamber 10 of the embodiment of the present invention, a water flow excitation plate can be arranged to further enhance the water excitation effect, or the water flow excitation plate can be omitted to improve the manufacturability of the air dissolving tank 1.

[0119] In some optional embodiments, such as Fig.18 As shown, in the horizontal direction, the baffle 3 is at least partially located between the inlet 11 and the outlet 12 , and can intercept the water flowing in from the inlet 11 in the process of flowing toward the outlet 12 .

[0120] Furthermore, if Fig.19 As shown, the baffle plate 3 is provided with a slit 31, or the baffle plate 3 is provided with a through hole, or the baffle plate 3 is provided with a slit 31 and a through hole, so that water dissolved with air can flow through, but the bubbles stirred up by the water splash in the air dissolving chamber 10 are blocked, preventing large bubbles from flowing to the cavitation element 2, thereby further reducing the waste of air in the air dissolving tank 1, avoiding the rapid drop of air pressure in the air dissolving chamber 10 to affect the air dissolution, and the large bubbles will affect the cavitation effect after flowing into the cavitation element 2.

[0121] In addition, the baffle 3 can form more water splashes when the incident water flow hits the baffle 3, and the baffle 3 can also serve as a reinforcement structure to enhance the pressure bearing capacity of the dissolved air tank 1.

[0122] The baffle 3 mentioned here is at least partially located between the inlet 11 and the outlet 12 in the horizontal direction, which means that the baffle 3 can be as follows Fig.18 The baffle 3 is shown as being completely located between the inlet 11 and the outlet 12, and the baffle 3 may also be only partially located between the inlet 11 and the outlet 12. For example, the baffle 3 may be formed as an arc plate or a spherical plate, and the baffle 3 covers the outlet 12, in which case the baffle 3 is only partially located between the inlet 11 and the outlet 12.

[0123] In some specific embodiments, the baffles 3 are all located between the inlet 11 and the outlet 12 in the horizontal direction, which can reduce the manufacturing difficulty.

[0124] like Fig.18 and Fig.19 As shown, in this embodiment, the baffle 3 is formed as a flat plate and is vertically connected to the bottom wall of the gas dissolving tank 1. As a result, it can not only effectively prevent the bubbles generated by the water flow from flowing out of the gas dissolving tank 1, but also facilitate production and manufacturing. Whether the straight baffle 3 is formed integrally on the gas dissolving tank 1 or fixed to the gas dissolving tank 1 by plugging or welding, it is much easier than a curved plate. Of course, this does not exclude that in other embodiments of the present invention, the baffle 3 is formed as an inclined plate, a double-layer hollow plate, or is formed as the above-mentioned curved plate, spherical plate, etc.

[0125] Specifically, Fig.19 As shown, the gap 31 on the baffle 3 is formed into a vertical strip shape in the up and down direction, which can also greatly improve the manufacturability of the microbubble generator 100. Fig.19 There is only one middle slit 31 . In other embodiments, the baffle plate 3 can be formed as a grille plate with multiple slits 31 .

[0126] In other embodiments, the baffle plate 3 is a porous plate 29 having a plurality of through holes, or the baffle plate 3 is provided with both slits 31 and through holes.

[0127] In some specific embodiments, when the baffle plate 3 is provided with a slit 31, the width of the slit 31 is less than or equal to 50 mm. It is understandable that the width of the slit 31 on the baffle plate 3 needs to be smaller to prevent bubbles formed by water flow from passing through the slit 31. Preferably, the width of the slit 31 ranges from 1 to 10 mm. Of course, the size of the slit 31 can also be selected according to actual conditions and is not limited to the above range.

[0128] Optionally, the horizontal distance between the baffle 3 and the outlet 12 is greater than the horizontal distance between the baffle 3 and the inlet 11, that is, the baffle 3 is closer to the inlet 11 in the horizontal direction, thereby ensuring the blocking effect of the baffle 3 on the water flow to excite the water bubbles, thereby ensuring the gas dissolving effect of the gas dissolving tank 1. Preferably, the horizontal distance between the baffle 3 and the inlet 11 is less than 50 mm.

[0129] When the air in the air dissolving tank 1 gradually dissolves, the air inside the air dissolving tank 1 will gradually decrease. After each use of the microbubble generator 100, the microbubble generator 100 stops taking in water, and the control valve 4 can be opened at this time to quickly restore the air dissolving chamber 10 to normal pressure. In addition, since the air content is low when the air dissolving chamber 10 stops taking in water, the air pressure in the air dissolving chamber 10 is lower than the external atmospheric pressure, and the microbubble water in the cavitation element 2 or even the pipe connected to the cavitation element 2 may be sucked back into the air dissolving chamber 10. After that, the air dissolving chamber 10 is restored to normal pressure, and the residual water inside will be discharged from the opened auxiliary port 18 or the cavitation element 2. After this process, even if there is still some residue in the air dissolving chamber 10, the residual water will not be too much, and there is sufficient air in the air dissolving tank 1, thereby ensuring that the microbubble generator 100 can dissolve enough air when used next time.

[0130] In the above embodiment, the air dissolving tank 1 is proposed to dissolve air in water, that is, to dissolve air as a solute in water, that is, air is dispersed in water molecules in the form of ions. The air ions are dispersed in the dissolved state, and the air ions in the water molecules are relatively uniform. After that, the bubbles precipitated by the cavitation effect are mostly only nanometer-level and micrometer-level in the initial stage of formation, which are the microbubbles that our microbubble generator 100 hopes to obtain. Even after the water with microbubbles flows to the final use place, the microbubbles are dissolved with each other, and most of the obtained microbubbles can still be kept at the millimeter level or even smaller, and the effect is the best, and the explosion energy can be effectively transmitted to the millimeter-level and micrometer-level fibers and detergent particles.

[0131] Moreover, if the bubbles are forcibly injected into the water, the bubbles will burst too quickly and cannot participate in the entire washing process. The air dissolved in the water is usually not completely precipitated in the cavitation element 2. During the entire washing process, the air dissolved in the water will slowly replenish microbubbles, thereby continuously generating microbubble water, reaching the participation of microbubbles in the entire washing process, thereby improving the washing and rinsing capabilities of the clothing treatment device.

[0132] It should be noted that air is a sparingly soluble gas relative to water. The percentage of the amount of air dissolved in water to the amount of air introduced is called the gas dissolving efficiency, which is related to the temperature, the gas dissolving pressure and the dynamic contact area between the gas and liquid phases. The method of changing the water temperature or the air temperature is difficult to implement. A common method of improving the gas dissolving efficiency is to use a booster pump to increase the pressure in the gas dissolving chamber 10, but various valves must be configured, so the cost of configuring a booster pump is too high.

[0133] Another solution in the prior art is to set a double inlet in the air dissolving device, one inlet is used to take in water, and the other inlet is used to take in air while taking in water. It is necessary to use a booster pump to pressurize the air into the water in order to inject air into the flowing water. In this solution, because the air inlet is located below the cavitation element 2, the incoming bubbles will quickly flow toward the cavitation element 2 and be squeezed out. There is no space in the air dissolving tank 1 for the bubbles to slowly dissolve, and the air dissolving effect is not ideal. The method of injecting air into the water by boosting is equivalent to directly pressing large bubbles into the water. Such large bubbles stay in the water for a short time and have insufficient dissolution time. Even when passing through the cavitation element 2, the large bubbles are squeezed into more small bubbles by the cavitation element 2, but the size of the small bubbles is at the millimeter level or even larger, and they will quickly break and release.

[0134] The micro-bubble generator 100 of the present application utilizes the flow velocity difference of the water flow in and out of the air dissolving chamber 10 and the height difference between the inlet 11 and the outlet 12 to form a water seal at the outlet 12, so that the air dissolving chamber 10 is gradually pressurized to form a high-pressure chamber, thereby increasing the amount of dissolved air. The control valve 4 is set so that after each use of the micro-bubble generator 100, the residual water in the air dissolving chamber 10 can be discharged and the air can be replenished.

[0135] The cavitation element 2 of the microbubble generator 100 of the present application is connected to the detergent box 300, and the microbubble water is guided to the detergent box 300 and then flows to the water tub, which can reduce the number of connecting pipes on the water tub. On the one hand, it is easy to seal, and on the other hand, the highly integrated structure can reduce the volume. There is no need to install multiple valves, and the generation of microbubbles is achieved with a relatively simple structure, which is conducive to improving the compactness, integration and stability of the structure. The above-mentioned microbubble generator 100 does not need to install multiple valves, has low cost and good microbubble manufacturing effect. The washing water contains a large number of microbubbles, which reduces the amount of detergent used, saves water and electricity resources, and reduces the detergent residue on the clothes.

[0136] In the embodiment of the present invention, the gas dissolving tank 1 can be formed into any shape, and no specific limitation is made here. However, the gas dissolving tank 1 needs to ensure that other positions of the gas dissolving tank 1 except the outlet 12 have good sealing performance during gas dissolving operation.

[0137] Specifically, the cross-sectional area of ​​the air dissolving chamber 10 perpendicular to the inlet 11 is relatively small. It is understandable that when the water flows into the air dissolving chamber 10, the incident water flow will hit the inner wall of the air dissolving chamber 10 and the liquid surface in the air dissolving chamber 10. This phenomenon will produce more water splashes, and the generation of water splashes is conducive to bringing the water body into the high-pressure air above, increasing the speed of air dissolving in the water body. The cross-sectional area of ​​the air dissolving chamber 10 perpendicular to the inlet 11 is relatively small, which is conducive to the water splashes generated during the incident water flow of the inlet 11 hitting the water surface, and the inner wall of the air dissolving chamber 10 produces a relatively strong physical effect, so that the water body can dissolve air faster.

[0138] like Figure 18-Figure 19 As shown, the inlet 11 is located at the top of the gas dissolving tank 1 or close to the top; the outlet 12 is located at the bottom of the gas dissolving tank 1 or close to the bottom; and the auxiliary port 18 is located at the bottom of the gas dissolving tank 1 or close to the bottom.

[0139] In some optional embodiments, such as Figure 18-Figure 19 As shown, the incident direction of the inlet 11 is vertically downward, and the incoming water flow is injected into the air dissolving chamber 10 along the vertical direction, which not only increases the generation of water splashes, thereby accelerating the air dissolution rate, but also facilitates the manufacturability of mass production of the air dissolving tank 1. Of course, in other embodiments of the present invention, the incident direction of the inlet 11 can also be inclined, that is, the incident direction of the water flow can be at a certain angle to the vertical direction, so that the impact area of ​​the incident water flow is very large.

[0140] In some embodiments, in the horizontal direction, such as Fig.18 As shown, the inlet 11 and the outlet 12 are located at the two ends of the air dissolving tank 1 , thereby further lengthening the flow path of the water flow inside the air dissolving tank 1 and further reducing the bubbles produced by the water flow flowing out through the outlet 12 .

[0141] The cross section of the gas dissolving chamber 10 in the horizontal direction is a square, and the inlet 11 and the outlet 12 are arranged at the farthest distance of the straight line distance between the two ends of the square. For example, the cross section of the gas dissolving chamber 10 in the horizontal direction is a rectangle, and the inlet 11 and the outlet 12 are located at the two ends of the long side of the rectangle. This gas dissolving tank 1 is easy to process and easy to lay out during assembly. Of course, in other embodiments of the present invention, the cross-sectional shape of the gas dissolving chamber 10 can be formed into any shape and is not limited to a rectangle, a rhombus or other irregular squares.

[0142] Advantageously, if Fig.18 As shown, the inlet 11 is located at the top of the air dissolving chamber 10, which can ensure that the incident water flow can stir up more water splashes and improve the air dissolving effect. Optionally, the outlet 12 is located at the bottom of the air dissolving chamber 10, so that the outlet 12 can form a water seal as soon as possible.

[0143] In some embodiments, the distance between the inlet 11 and at least one side wall of the air dissolving chamber 10 is less than 50 mm. That is, when the inlet 11 is in working state, the projection of the inlet 11 to the water surface in the vertical direction is less than 50 mm from the inner wall surface of at least one air dissolving chamber 10. The water flow at the inlet 11 is more likely to hit the side wall of the air dissolving tank 1 to produce water splashes, thereby improving the air dissolving effect of the air dissolving tank 1. Optionally, the distance between the inlet 11 and at least one side wall of the air dissolving chamber 10 is between 1-20 mm. Of course, in other embodiments of the present invention, the inner wall of the air dissolving chamber 10 can be provided with structures such as inner convex ribs to make it easier to stir up water splashes.

[0144] In the embodiment of the present invention, the gas dissolving tank 1 is provided with two gas dissolving half shells 13 which are interlocked with each other, the inlet 11 is provided on one of the gas dissolving half shells 13, and the outlet 12 is provided on the other gas dissolving half shell 13. The inlet 11 and the outlet 12 are provided on the two gas dissolving half shells 13 respectively, which is easy to form, and the strength of each gas dissolving half shell 13 is not too low. The gas dissolving tank 1 has strong manufacturability, is convenient for mass production, and has low processing cost.

[0145] In some specific embodiments, the two gas-dissolving half shells 13 are connected by welding or gluing to ensure the sealing performance. In other specific embodiments, the gas-dissolving tank 1 is a plastic part, for example, each gas-dissolving half shell 13 is an integral injection-molded part.

[0146] The upper part of the gas dissolving tank 1 is provided with a water inlet pipe 14 connected to the top of the gas dissolving chamber 10, and the lower part of the gas dissolving tank 1 is provided with a water outlet pipe 15 connected to the bottom of the gas dissolving chamber 10. The water inlet pipe 14 and the water outlet pipe 15 are arranged horizontally, which is convenient for assembly. For example, when the micro-bubble generator 100 is used in an integrated manner with the detergent box 300, the gas dissolving tank 1 is installed behind the detergent box 300, and the water inlet pipe 14 and the water outlet pipe 15 are arranged horizontally to make assembly easier.

[0147] like Figure 18-Figure 19 As shown, in this embodiment, two air-dissolving half shells 13 are arranged up and down, the water inlet pipe 14 is integrally formed on the upper air-dissolving half shell 13, and the water outlet pipe 15 is integrally formed on the lower air-dissolving half shell 13, so that the processing convenience and sealing can be guaranteed.

[0148] Specifically, the two gas-dissolving half shells 13 are in contact with each other at the joint through the step surface 16, which not only increases the contact area of ​​the two gas-dissolving half shells 13 at the joint, but also improves the contact strength. In addition, the step surface 16 is in contact with each other, so that at least part of the contact surface of the two gas-dissolving half shells 13 is perpendicular or nearly perpendicular to the pressure of the inner wall of the gas-dissolving chamber 10. This makes the two gas-dissolving half shells 13 more and more tightly pressed at the joint due to the internal high pressure, avoiding the joint from cracking and leaking due to the internal high pressure.

[0149] Furthermore, the outer surface of the gas dissolving tank 1 is provided with reinforcing ribs 17 arranged in a staggered manner in both horizontal and vertical directions, so as to increase the strength of the gas dissolving tank 1 and avoid deformation and gas leakage due to the internal high pressure.

[0150] In the embodiment of the present invention, the cavitation element 2 may adopt the structure of a cavitation device that is already known in the prior art, such as an ultrasonic generator, etc. For example, at least one Venturi channel 25 is formed in the cavitation element 2 .

[0151] In some optional embodiments, such as Fig.21As shown, the cavitation element 2 is a perforated plate 29 provided with a plurality of micropores. Thus, the air dissolved in the water flow passing through the cavitation element 2 can be precipitated relatively simply and made into bubbles. Specifically, the radius of the micropores on the perforated plate 29 is 0.01 mm-10 mm. Experiments have shown that the perforated plate 29 with the above parameters has a better cavitation effect and can generate more bubbles. Of course, the specific parameters of the perforated plate 29 can be adjusted by the staff according to the actual working conditions and are not limited to the above ranges.

[0152] In some other optional embodiments, Fig. 20 As shown, the cavitation element 2 includes a venturi tube 28, and a venturi channel 25 is formed in the venturi tube 28. As a result, the air dissolved in the water flow passing through the cavitation element 2 can be precipitated relatively simply and made into bubbles. By using the venturi tube 28 as the cavitation element 2, there is no need to design an extra water pump, a heating device or a control valve 4, etc., which greatly simplifies the structure of the cavitation element 2 and reduces the production cost. In addition, the venturi tube 28 has no additional requirements for the water inlet method, so that the cavitation element 2 can easily generate a large number of bubbles.

[0153] In some specific embodiments, Figure 22-Figure 24 As shown, the cavitation member 2 is formed into a deformed structure having a plurality of venturi channels 25. Fig. 22 As shown, the cavitation member 2 is generally a column, and a plurality of venturi channels 25 are arranged in the cavitation member 2. Such a structure, on the one hand, lengthens the path length of the venturi channel 25, which is conducive to the time sufficiency of the venturi effect, and on the other hand, facilitates processing and manufacturing, and is convenient for assembly, especially when connected to the nozzle.

[0154] Specifically, if Fig.24 As shown, the Venturi channel 25 in the cavitation element 2 includes: a tapered section 251, a throat 252 and a gradually expanding section 253 in the direction of water flow. The diameter of the tapered section 251 gradually decreases in the direction toward the throat 252, and the diameter of the gradually expanding section 253 gradually increases in the direction away from the throat 252. The throat 252 has the smallest flow area in the Venturi channel 25.

[0155] Specifically, the cavitation member 2 is formed in a cylindrical shape, and a diverter groove 261 and a converging groove 262 are respectively formed at opposite ends of the cavitation member 2 , and the venturi channel 25 is formed between the bottom wall of the diverter groove 261 and the bottom wall of the converging groove 262 .

[0156] The cavitation element 2 is generally connected to the clothing treatment device through a pipeline, so the inner diameter of the outlet of the cavitation element 2 can be selected between 5-15 mm. Further, the inner diameter of the outlet of the cavitation element 2 can be controlled between 7-10 mm. Fig.24 In the example, the diameter of the conduit groove 262 can be selected between 5-15 mm, and further can be selected between 7-10 mm.

[0157] Optionally, the number of the Venturi channels 25 is 1-30, and further optionally, the number of the Venturi channels 25 is 4-6. As a key component, the cavitation element 2 needs to be responsible for processing the water flow entering the clothing treatment device, and the water entering the clothing treatment device generally uses domestic tap water. The flow rate of domestic tap water is generally 5-12L / min, and the water pressure is generally 0.02-1Mpa. More commonly, the flow rate is generally 8-10L / min, and the water pressure is generally 0.15-0.3Mpa. Therefore, the number of the Venturi channels 25 in the cavitation element 2 can be selected to be 4-6.

[0158] The relevant principles of cavitation are:

[0159] The average velocity, average pressure and cross-sectional area at the inlet of the tapered section 251 are V1, P1 and S1 respectively, and the average velocity, average pressure and cross-sectional area at the throat 252 are V2, P2 and S2 respectively. The density of water is ρ. In the working state, the clothing processing device uses tap water as the working medium, satisfying the relationship: S1*V1=S2*V2.

[0160] Using Bernoulli's principle and the continuity equation, we can obtain the relationship: V12 / 2+P1 / ρ=V / 2+P2 / ρ.

[0161] In this process, by controlling the changes of S1 and S2, the flow velocity at the throat 252 in the Venturi channel 25 increases and the pressure at the throat 252 decreases, so that the air dissolved in the water is released in the form of microbubbles.

[0162] As a diffusion section, the ideal diffusion of the gradually expanding section 253 should make the fluid gradually decelerate, so the gradually expanding section 253 needs a certain length. Optionally, the length of the gradually expanding section 253 is greater than the length of the gradually contracting section 251. Further optionally, the length ratio of the gradually contracting section 251 to the gradually expanding section 253 is 1:2-1:4. Further optionally, the length ratio of the gradually contracting section 251 to the gradually expanding section 253 is 1:3-1:4.

[0163] Since the Venturi channel 25 needs to be distributed in the cavitation member 2 with a relatively limited cross-sectional area, the diameter of the Venturi channel 25 is limited at various locations. Optionally, the diameter of the throat is 0.7-2.0 mm, and further optionally, the diameter of the throat is 0.9-1.1 mm. In addition, the end diameters of the tapered section 251 and the expanding section 253 are both larger than the diameter of the throat 252, at least 0.1 mm larger. Optionally, the end diameter of the tapered section 251 away from the throat 252 ranges from 1 to 4 mm, and the end diameter of the expanding section 253 away from the throat 252 ranges from 1 to 4 mm. Further optionally, the ratio of the diameter of the throat 252 to the end diameter of the tapered section 251 is approximately 1:1.3-2. The ratio of the diameter of the throat 252 to the end diameter of the expanding section 253 is approximately 1:1.3-2.

[0164] Furthermore, if Figure 22-Figure 24 As shown, for easy installation, a threaded section 231 is formed at one end of the cavitation member 2, and the threaded section 231 can be either an internal thread or an external thread. Fig. 22 and Fig.23 In the example, the threaded section 231 of the cavitation element 2 at one end connected to the dissolved air tank 1 is an external thread, which is screwed onto the dissolved air tank 1 through the thread, and the connection is very convenient.

[0165] In other specific embodiments, Fig.25 As shown, the cavitation element 2 includes: a cavitation shell 23 and a cavitation ball 24. A water passage chamber 20 is provided in the cavitation shell 23, and the cavitation shell 23 has a cavitation inlet 21 and a cavitation outlet 22 for water flow in and out, and the cavitation inlet 21 is connected to the outlet 1212 of the gas dissolving tank 1. The cavitation ball 24 is movably arranged in the water passage chamber 20, and the water flowing in from the cavitation inlet 21 can push the cavitation ball 24 to block at the cavitation outlet 22, and when the cavitation ball 24 is blocked at the cavitation outlet 22, a venturi channel 25 is formed between the cavitation ball 24 and the inner wall of the water passage chamber 20.

[0166] When the cavitation ball 24 blocks the cavitation outlet 22, a venturi channel 25 communicating with the cavitation outlet 22 is provided between the cavitation ball 24 and the inner wall of the water passage chamber 20. It is shown here that the cavitation ball 24 does not completely block the cavitation outlet 22, but leaves the venturi channel 25 so that the water flow containing dissolved air gradually flows out from the cavitation outlet 22.

[0167] By arranging a movable cavitation ball 24 in the water passage chamber 20 in front of the cavitation outlet 22, when the water flow containing dissolved air is continuously introduced into the cavitation inlet 21, the continuously introduced water flow flows along the inner wall of the water passage chamber 20, and after encountering the cavitation ball 24, the cavitation ball 24 is pushed to move toward the cavitation outlet 22, so that the cavitation ball 24 moves to the front of the cavitation outlet 22 and gradually stops on the cavitation outlet 22, forming a Venturi channel 25.

[0168] When the water flow containing dissolved air solutes passes through the Venturi channel 25, the flow area will first shrink and then expand. When the flow area shrinks and the flow velocity of the water flow with gas solutes increases, the pressure decreases. When the flow area increases and the flow velocity of the water flow with gas solutes decreases, the pressure increases. A Venturi effect will occur in the Venturi channel 25, and air will precipitate from the solute state to form microbubbles. In addition, the water flow keeps the cavitation ball 24 against the cavitation outlet 22, and also makes the water flow containing dissolved air solutes flow out of the Venturi channel 25 faster.

[0169] In this process, the water flow rate continuously introduced is greater than the water flow rate discharged, and the water chamber 20 acts as an air-locked chamber. When the cavitation outlet 22 thereof is stopped by the cavitation ball 24, the internal pressure thereof will increase, thereby strengthening the cavitation effect.

[0170] The use of this cavitation element 2 is not only low in cost and processing difficulty, but also has advantages that other cavitation structures do not have. The cavitation ball 24 is a movable sphere. When the microbubble generator 100 stops working, the water flow rate decreases, and the cavitation ball 24 without water flow will leave the cavitation outlet 22, so that the remaining water in the microbubble generator 100 can be removed as soon as possible. This is convenient for pre-storing air in the air dissolving tank 1, and on the other hand, it is prevented from accumulating water and breeding too many bacteria. In addition, this cavitation element 2 is also easy to clean.

[0171] The following is combined with Figure 1-Figure 27 Some specific embodiments of the clothes treating apparatus according to the present invention are described in detail.

[0172] In a specific embodiment of the present invention, Figure 2-Figure 3 as well as Fig.26 As shown, the clothing treatment device is a washing machine, the main water inlet pipe 200 is connected to the tap water pipe, the main water inlet pipe 200 is respectively connected to the washing inlet of the detergent box 300 and the water inlet 101 of the micro-bubble generator 100, the water outlet 102 of the micro-bubble generator 100 is connected to the water inlet manifold 51 at the bottom of the detergent box 300 through the second micro-bubble connecting pipe 522, the auxiliary port 18 is arranged at the upper part of the air dissolving tank 1 and is higher than the outlet 12 of the air dissolving chamber 10, and the auxiliary port 18 is connected to the atmosphere through the return air channel 301 on the detergent box 300. The working process of the clothing treatment device is as follows:

[0173] The tap water flows through the water inlet valve 210 and the pipeline into the air dissolving tank 1, and the air inside the air dissolving tank 1 is fully stimulated and dissolved to form an air solution inside the air dissolving tank 1. When the high-depth air solution passes through the cavitation element 2, microbubble water is formed.

[0174] The microbubble water flows into the inner barrel (i.e., the water storage barrel) of the laundry treatment device through the second microbubble pipe 522 and the water inlet manifold 51 at the bottom of the detergent box 300, ensuring that the microbubble water flows into the inner barrel in the shortest path to participate in the washing and rinsing of the laundry, thereby reducing the loss of microbubbles. The microbubbles are in full contact with the laundry for a long time, and the stains on the laundry are fully removed, thereby achieving the purpose of cleaning the laundry.

[0175] When the tap water stops flowing in, there is some residual water in the air dissolving tank 1. To ensure that there is sufficient air for dissolution in the next use of the cycle, the top control valve 4 is controlled to open, so that the auxiliary port 18 is in an open state. The opened auxiliary port 18 is connected to the atmosphere through the return air channel 301, thereby achieving the purpose of replenishing air into the air dissolving tank 1, which is convenient for the next use or for recycling. The residual water in the air dissolving tank 1 is discharged from the water outlet 102 under the action of its own weight, and flows into the water bucket or other residual water removal parts through the second micro-bubble pipe 522, thereby emptying the residual water.

[0176] In another specific embodiment of the present invention, Figures 6 to 10 As shown in FIG. 27 , the clothing treatment device is a washing machine, the main water inlet pipe 200 is connected to the tap water pipe, the main water inlet pipe 200 is connected to the water inlet 101 of the microbubble generator 100, the water outlet 102 of the microbubble generator 100 is connected to the washing inlet of the detergent box 300 through the first microbubble connecting pipe 521, the auxiliary port 18 is arranged at the lower part of the air dissolving tank 1 and is lower than the outlet 12 on the air dissolving tank 1, and the auxiliary port 18 is connected to the water inlet manifold 51 at the bottom of the detergent box 300 through the drain pipe 53. The working process of the clothing treatment device is as follows:

[0177] The tap water flows through the water inlet valve 210 through the pipeline into the air dissolving tank 1, and fully stimulates and dissolves the internal air in the air dissolving tank 1 to form an air solution in the air dissolving tank 1. When the high-concentration air solution passes through the outlet 12 (containing the cavitation element 2) at the bottom, microbubble water is formed.

[0178] Under the action of the high pressure at the top of the air dissolving chamber 10, the microbubble water flows upward along the first microbubble connecting pipe 521 through the cavitation element 2 to the washing inlet of the detergent box 300 and enters the detergent box 300. The microbubble water impacts the detergent (or laundry liquid, washing powder, softener, etc.) in the detergent chamber. Due to the explosion of the microbubbles, the detergent will be fully dissolved and dissolved into finer particles. The microbubble water mixed with the detergent flows to the inner barrel of the washing machine through the water inlet manifold 51 at the bottom of the detergent box 300. On the one hand, the detergent fully dissolved by the microbubble water quickly removes the stains on the clothes, and at the same time, the explosion of the microbubbles themselves will also quickly remove the stains on the clothes, thereby effectively improving the washing ability of the washing machine.

[0179] When the air dissolving tank 1 stops taking in water, the generation of microbubble water gradually stops. At this time, the control valve 4 at the bottom is opened, and the residual water in the first microbubble pipe 521 flows back into the air dissolving tank 1. Since the position of the outlet 12 is higher than the position of the auxiliary port 18, the air in the detergent box 300 flows through the outlet 12 in the normally open state through the first microbubble pipe 521, thereby filling the air dissolving tank 1, so that the air in the air dissolving tank 1 is replenished again; and the residual water in the air dissolving tank 1 flows out from the auxiliary port 18 under the action of the air pressure difference and its own weight, and flows into the inner barrel of the clothes processing device or other residual water removal parts through the drain pipe 53, thereby emptying the residual water.

[0180] Other components of the laundry processing apparatus according to the embodiment of the present invention, such as the structure and operation of the motor and reducer, the drainage pump, etc., are well known to those skilled in the art and will not be described in detail here.

[0181] In the description of this specification, the description with reference to the terms "one embodiment", "some embodiments", "illustrative embodiments", "examples", "specific examples", or "some examples" means that the specific features, structures, materials or characteristics described in conjunction with the embodiment or example are included in at least one embodiment or example of the present invention. In this specification, the schematic representation of the above terms does not necessarily refer to the same embodiment or example. Moreover, the specific features, structures, materials or characteristics described may be combined in any one or more embodiments or examples in a suitable manner.

[0182] Although the embodiments of the present invention have been shown and described, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that various changes, modifications, substitutions and variations may be made to the embodiments without departing from the principles and spirit of the present invention, and that the scope of the present invention is defined by the claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A clothes processing device, characterized in that: include: Bucket for water; Main water inlet pipe; a detergent box, wherein a detergent cavity for containing detergent is defined in the detergent box, the detergent box having a washing inlet and a washing outlet, the washing outlet being connected to the water holding tub; A microbubble generator is connected to the detergent box or the water tub, and has an air dissolving cavity, an inlet, an outlet and an auxiliary port connected to the air dissolving cavity. A control valve is provided at the auxiliary port to control the on-off of the auxiliary port.

2. The clothes treating device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The auxiliary port is located below the outlet and is used for drainage.

3. The clothes treating device according to claim 2, characterized in that: The auxiliary port is connected to the main drain pipe of the water tub or the clothes treating device.

4. The clothes treating device according to claim 2, characterized in that: The bottom of the detergent box has a water inlet manifold connected to the washing outlet, and the water inlet manifold is located downstream of the washing outlet in the flow direction of the water flow. Wherein, the water inlet manifold is connected to the water tub, the auxiliary port is connected to the water inlet manifold, and the auxiliary port is connected to the water tub through the water inlet manifold.

5. The clothes treating device according to any one of claims 2 to 4, characterized in that: The outlet is connected to the washing inlet at least through a first micro-bubble connecting pipe.

6. The clothes treating device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The auxiliary port is located above the outlet and is used for air intake.

7. The clothes treating device according to claim 6, characterized in that: An air return channel is defined in the detergent box, and the air return channel is connected to the auxiliary port.

8. The clothes treating device according to claim 6 or 7, characterized in that: The bottom of the detergent box has a water inlet manifold connected to the washing outlet, and the water inlet manifold is located downstream of the washing outlet in the flow direction of the water flow. Wherein, the water inlet manifold is connected to the water tub, the outlet is connected to the water inlet manifold at least through a second microbubble connecting pipe, and the outlet is connected to the water tub through the second microbubble connecting pipe and the water inlet manifold.

9. The clothes treating device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The micro-bubble generator includes a cavitation element, and the cavitation element is connected to the outlet, or the cavitation element is arranged at the outlet, and the cavitation element is connected to the detergent box or the water tub.

10. The clothes treating device according to claim 9, characterized in that: At least one venturi channel is formed in the cavitation element.

11. The clothes treating device according to claim 10, characterized in that: The cavitation member is cylindrical, and a diversion groove and a confluence groove are formed at two ends of the cavitation member respectively, and a plurality of the Venturi channels are formed between the bottom wall of the diversion groove and the bottom wall of the confluence groove.

12. The clothes treating device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The micro-bubble generator is configured such that the water outflow rate is smaller than the water inflow rate when dissolving air.

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