A washing machine

Abstract

The present invention provides a washing machine, which relates to the technical field of washing machines. The washing machine includes a washing tub, and a multifunctional connector with water inlet and exhaust functions is provided on the water inlet side of the washing tub. The multifunctional connector is provided with a liquid inlet, a liquid outlet, an air inlet, an exhaust port, and a water cavity formed on the multifunctional connector and internally connected to the liquid inlet and the liquid outlet, and an air cavity connected to the air inlet and the exhaust port. The water cavity and the air cavity are independent of each other. The water inlet of the washing tub is connected to the liquid outlet and the air inlet of the multifunctional connector. The liquid inlet of the multifunctional connector is connected to the water supply pipeline of the washing machine. The exhaust port of the multifunctional connector is connected to the atmosphere or an exhaust main pipe. The multifunctional connector of the washing machine can realize the three functions of water inlet, defoaming, and exhaust. At the same time, combined with the design of the exhaust main pipe, the pipeline layout is simplified, the space occupied by the pipeline system is reduced, and the production and assembly costs are reduced. The multifunctional connector solves the problem that the water inlet structure of the washing machine only has the function of water inlet and lacks the functions of defoaming and exhaust.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to the technical field of washing machines, and in particular to a washing machine. Background Art

[0002] With the improvement of people's living standards, multi-barrel washing machines have become an indispensable household appliance for people, but they will cause some problems during use, affecting user experience and even safety. At present, during the washing process, multi-barrel washing machines are prone to produce a lot of foam due to the use of high-foaming detergents or excessive detergents. If the foam cannot be effectively eliminated, it will not only affect the washing effect of the clothes, but also affect the dehydration work, such as unsuccessful dehydration or large vibrations, which will in turn affect the user experience and the structural life of the multi-barrel washing machine. Therefore, it is necessary to design a defoaming system for the multi-barrel washing machine, but the rapid defoaming of the existing technology itself is a major problem. The foam generated by the multi-barrel washing machine overflows from the barrel, which can easily cause a short circuit in the multi-barrel washing machine and lead to electric shock accidents. At the same time, the water inlet and exhaust pipes of the multi-barrel washing machine in the existing technology are often complex in design and inconvenient to install.

[0003] Therefore, a new technical solution is provided to solve the problem of complex water inlet and exhaust pipe systems of washing machines in the prior art. Summary of the Invention

[0004] In view of this, the present invention provides a washing machine, which uses a multifunctional connector that integrates water inlet and exhaust functions, so that the water inlet structure of the washing machine has both water inlet and exhaust functions, solving the problem of complex water inlet and exhaust pipe systems of multi-barrel washing machines in the prior art.

[0005] In order to achieve the above-mentioned objectives, the present invention adopts the following technical solution: a washing machine, comprising a washing tub, wherein a multifunctional joint with water inlet and exhaust functions is provided on the water inlet side of the washing tub; the multifunctional joint is provided with a liquid inlet, a liquid outlet, an air inlet, an exhaust port, and a water cavity formed on the multifunctional joint and internally connected to the liquid inlet and the liquid outlet, and an air cavity connected to the air inlet and the exhaust port; the water cavity and the air cavity are independent of each other; the water inlet of the washing tub is connected to the liquid outlet and the air inlet of the multifunctional joint; the liquid inlet of the multifunctional joint is connected to the water supply pipeline of the washing machine; and the exhaust port of the multifunctional joint is connected to the atmosphere or the exhaust main pipe.

[0006] Further optionally, the washing machine includes a plurality of washing tubs, the multifunctional connector is provided on the water inlet side of at least one of the washing tubs, and the exhaust port of the multifunctional connector is connected to the exhaust main pipe through an exhaust branch pipe.

[0007] Further optionally, a bubble-breaking structure capable of puncturing bubbles is formed on the inner wall of the air cavity connecting the air inlet and the exhaust port.

[0008] Further optionally, the exhaust main pipe is provided with an atmospheric communication hole at a position higher than the water inlet of the washing tub at the highest position of the washing machine, and a drain port is provided at a position equal to or lower than the drain port of the washing tub at the lowest position of the washing machine, and the drain port is connected to the drainage assembly of the washing machine.

[0009] Further optionally, the liquid outlet and air inlet of the multifunctional connector are arranged on the same side of the multifunctional connector; a water inlet pipe is connected between the water inlet of the washing bucket and the liquid outlet and air inlet of the multifunctional connector, one end of the water inlet pipe is connected to the water inlet of the washing bucket, and the other end is connected to the end side of the multifunctional connector where the liquid outlet and air inlet are also provided.

[0010] Further optionally, the water inlet pipe is a corrugated pipe.

[0011] Further optionally, the washing tub of the washing machine includes an inner tub and an outer tub, and the water inlet of the washing tub is arranged on the outer tub.

[0012] Further optionally, the washing machine is provided with a water diverter valve, and the water diverter valve is provided with water outlet holes corresponding to the number of liquid inlets of the multifunctional connector of the at least one washing tub, and each liquid inlet of the multifunctional connector is connected to the water outlet hole corresponding to the water diverter valve, and the water inlet of the water diverter valve is connected to the water supply pipe.

[0013] Further optionally, the washing machine further comprises an overflow assembly for discharging foam and / or water overflowing from the outer drum out of the washing machine, the overflow assembly comprising:

[0014] An overflow port is provided on the outer cylinder;

[0015] An overflow pipe has one end connected to the overflow port and the other end connected to the drainage assembly of the washing machine.

[0016] Further optionally, the drainage assembly is provided with an overflow interface, and the other end of the overflow pipe is connected to the drainage assembly through the overflow interface.

[0017] Further optionally, the multifunctional connector includes:

[0018] The connector body is divided into a water cavity and an air cavity which are independent of each other by a partition; a bubble-breaking structure capable of puncturing bubbles is formed on the inner wall of the air cavity connecting the air inlet and the exhaust port; the exhaust port is located at a position on the connector body higher than or equal to the setting position of the air inlet, and the bubble-breaking structure is higher than or equal to the setting position of the air inlet, so that the liquid formed after the bubbles are punctured by the protrusions can be discharged from the air inlet along the inner wall of the air cavity.

[0019] Further optionally, the bubble breaking structure includes a protrusion formed on the inner wall of the air cavity, and the protrusion has a free end extending toward the hollow interior of the air cavity.

[0020] Further optionally, a plurality of protrusions are provided, and are staggered along the direction of gas flow toward the exhaust port.

[0021] Further optionally, the air cavity includes an exhaust chamber and a defoaming chamber, the air inlet is connected to the exhaust chamber, the exhaust port is connected to the defoaming chamber, a connecting hole is formed between the exhaust chamber and the defoaming chamber, the diameter of the connecting hole is smaller than the maximum diameter of the exhaust chamber, and the position of the exhaust port is higher than or equal to the setting position of the connecting hole, and the position of the connecting hole is higher than or equal to the setting position of the air inlet.

[0022] Further optionally, one end of the exhaust port of the defoaming chamber that is connected to the atmosphere is connected to one end of an exhaust branch pipe that is connected to the atmosphere, and the other end of the exhaust branch pipe is connected to the exhaust main pipe.

[0023] Further optionally, a porous structure facing the direction of liquid flow is formed on the inner wall of the exhaust branch pipe.

[0024] Further optionally, the protrusion is formed on the inner wall of the defoaming chamber of the air cavity.

[0025] Further optionally, the protrusion is arranged at the communicating hole to partially block the communicating hole.

[0026] Further optionally, the water cavity and the air cavity are formed vertically; the exhaust chamber and the defoaming chamber of the air cavity are formed vertically; the defoaming chamber is located above the exhaust chamber, and the exhaust chamber is located above the water cavity; the protrusion includes a first protrusion and a second protrusion, wherein:

[0027] The first protrusion is formed at the communicating hole to partially block the communicating hole; the second protrusion is formed on the inner wall of the defoaming chamber of the air cavity; and the first protrusion and the second protrusion are staggered.

[0028] Further optionally, the multifunctional joint is a variable diameter structure, wherein the diameter of the liquid inlet is smaller than the diameter of the liquid outlet.

[0029] Further optionally, the water chamber includes a water inlet chamber and a water outlet chamber, the diameter of the water inlet chamber is smaller than the diameter of the water outlet chamber, the two are arranged laterally together and both have a circular cross-section, the liquid inlet is arranged on one end of the water inlet chamber away from the water outlet chamber, and the liquid outlet is arranged on the side of the water outlet chamber away from the water inlet chamber, and an arc-shaped guide structure is formed between the water inlet chamber and the water outlet chamber, and the arc-shaped guide structure allows water flowing from the water inlet chamber into the water outlet chamber to flow tangentially along the inner wall of the water outlet chamber.

[0030] Further optionally, the highest point of the circular cross-section of the liquid inlet is tangent to the lowest point of the circular cross-section of the liquid outlet.

[0031] The present invention provides a multi-tub washing machine. By designing a multifunctional joint and a pipe for water inlet of the multi-tub washing machine, the following beneficial effects are achieved:

[0032] 1. The multifunctional connector of the washing machine can realize the three functions of water inlet, defoaming and exhaust, simplify the pipeline layout, reduce the space occupied by the pipeline system and reduce the production and assembly costs; and solve the problem that the water inlet structure of the washing machine only has the function of water inlet but no defoaming and exhaust functions.

[0033] 2. The multifunctional connector can effectively eliminate foam and use the pipeline design to keep the foam back into the cylinder, preventing foam overflow and avoiding electrical safety hazards;

[0034] 3. The multifunctional connector adopts a variable diameter design, which can reduce the impact of water flow on the inner drum when the washing machine is filled with water, thereby reducing the washing noise of the washing machine and improving the user experience. The multifunctional connector has a compact structure, high stability, comprehensive functions and is easy to install.

[0035] 4. The exhaust main pipe design is used to realize the integration of the exhaust system of multi-barrel washing machines, solving the problems of complex piping systems of multi-barrel washing machines, occupying a large space in the washing machine, and increasing production costs. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0036] The above and other objects, features, and advantages of the present invention will become more apparent by describing in detail exemplary embodiments thereof with reference to the accompanying drawings. The drawings described below are only some embodiments disclosed in the present invention. It is obvious to a person skilled in the art that other drawings can be derived from these drawings without inventive effort.

[0037] Figure 1 is a cross-sectional view of a multifunctional connector of a washing machine according to one embodiment of the present invention;

[0038] Figure 2 is a perspective view of a multifunctional connector of a washing machine according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0039] Figure 3 This is a front view of a multifunctional connector of a washing machine according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0040] Figure 4 It is a right side view of a multifunctional connector of a washing machine according to one embodiment of the present invention;

[0041] Figure 5 Schematic diagram of the structure of the water inlet assembly of a washing machine according to one embodiment of the present invention;

[0042] Figure 6 This is a schematic structural diagram of a first washing tub of a washing machine in one embodiment of the present invention;

[0043] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the structural assembly of a washing machine in one embodiment of the present invention;

[0044] Figure 8 This is an exploded view of the overall assembly structure of a washing machine in one embodiment of the present invention.

[0045] In the picture:

[0046] 1-First washing tub; 101-Water inlet; 102-Overflow outlet; 2-Second washing tub; 3-Third washing tub; 4-Multi-function connector; 41-Partition; 42-Water chamber; 421-Liquid inlet; 422-Liquid outlet; 43-Air chamber; 431-Air inlet; 432-Exhaust outlet; 433-Exhaust chamber; 434-Defoaming chamber; 435-Connecting hole; 436-First protrusion; 437-Second protrusion; 5-First water inlet hose; 6-Second water inlet hose; 7-Third water inlet hose; 8-Exhaust main pipe; 81-Branch pipe connecting hole; 9-Overflow pipe; 10-Overflow interface; 11-Exhaust branch pipe; 12-Porous structure; 13-Drainage assembly; 14-Frame; 15-Water diversion valve; 16-Water inlet pipe DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0047] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of the embodiments of the present invention more clear, the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present invention will be clearly and completely described below in conjunction with the accompanying drawings in the embodiments of the present invention. Obviously, the described embodiments are only part of the embodiments of the present invention, not all of the embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present invention, all other embodiments obtained by ordinary technicians in this field without making creative efforts shall fall within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0048] The terms used in the embodiments of the present invention are for the purpose of describing specific embodiments only and are not intended to limit the present invention. The singular forms "a," "the," and "the" used in the embodiments of the present invention and the appended claims are also intended to include plural forms, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. "A plurality" generally includes at least two, but does not exclude the inclusion of at least one.

[0049] It should be understood that the term "and / or" as used herein is merely a description of the relationship between associated objects, indicating that three possible relationships exist. For example, "A and / or B" can represent: A exists alone, A and B exist simultaneously, or B exists alone. Furthermore, the character " / " in this document generally indicates that the associated objects are in an "or" relationship.

[0050] It should also be noted that the terms "include," "comprises," or any other variations thereof are intended to encompass non-exclusive inclusion, such that a product or system comprising a series of elements includes not only those elements but also other elements not explicitly listed, or elements inherent to such product or system. In the absence of further limitations, an element defined by the phrase "comprises a..." does not exclude the presence of other identical elements in the product or system comprising the element.

[0051] Existing washing machines, particularly multi-tub washing machines, have multiple washing tubs, resulting in numerous internal pipes, a complex structure, and cumbersome installation. These pipes also occupy excessive internal space, hindering overall machine size control given the limited space available. The multi-tub washing machine with an exhaust and bubble-breaking mechanism, presented in the present invention, utilizes an integrated exhaust structure, unifying all the tubs with a single exhaust manifold. This simplifies piping layout, reduces piping system space occupation, and lowers production and assembly costs.

[0052] Example 1

[0053] like Figure 1-8 As shown, this embodiment provides a washing machine, comprising a plurality of washing tubs, wherein a multifunctional connector 4 with water inlet and exhaust functions is provided on the side of the water inlet 101 of at least one washing tub; specifically, the multifunctional connector 4 is provided with a liquid inlet 421, a liquid outlet 422, an air inlet 431, an exhaust port 432, and a water cavity 42 formed on the multifunctional connector 4 and internally connected to the liquid inlet 421 and the liquid outlet 422, and an air cavity 43 connected to the air inlet 431 and the exhaust port 432; the water cavity 42 and the air cavity 43 are independent of each other; the water inlet 101 of the washing tub is connected to the liquid outlet 422 and the air inlet 431 of the multifunctional connector 4; the liquid inlet 421 of the multifunctional connector 4 is connected to the water supply pipeline of the washing machine; and the liquid inlet 421 of the multifunctional connector 4 is connected to the water supply pipeline of the washing machine; the exhaust port 432 of the multifunctional connector 4 is connected to the exhaust main pipe 8 through the exhaust branch pipe 11.

[0054] The multi-barrel washing machine in this embodiment has multiple functions in the water inlet process, which enables the washing machine to realize the water inlet and exhaust functions in one. At the same time, when the foam in the barrel overflows, it can also play the role of defoaming and exhausting, which can solve the safety hazards caused by defoaming and exhausting in washing machines in the prior art. At the same time, the structure integrates multiple functions, is easy to install and use, and improves the user experience. At the same time, the exhaust pipe is designed, and the exhaust main pipe is used to solve the problems of complex washing machine piping system, large space occupied by washing machine, and increased production cost. The multi-barrel washing machine can avoid the problem of cross contamination during the cleaning process. At the same time, the design of the exhaust main pipe and the multi-function connector optimizes the internal piping design of the multi-barrel washing machine.

[0055] like Figure 5As shown, the piping design within the frame 14 of the multi-barrel washing machine is preferably such that the liquid outlet 422 and the air inlet 431 of the multi-function connector 4 are arranged on the same side of the multi-function connector 4; a water inlet pipe 16 is connected between the water inlet 101 of the washing tub and the liquid outlet 422 and the air inlet 431 of the multi-function connector 4, one end of the water inlet pipe 16 is connected to the water inlet 101 of the washing tub, and the other end is connected to the end side of the multi-function connector 4 where the liquid outlet 422 and the air inlet 431 are also arranged. Further preferably, the water inlet pipe 16 is a corrugated pipe. It has a good effect of shock absorption and noise reduction during the water intake process, and reduces the bending of other pipes, thereby increasing their service life. Preferably, the washing tub of the washing machine includes an inner tub and an outer tub, and the water inlet 101 of the washing tub is arranged on the outer tub. Preferably, the washing machine is equipped with a water diverter valve 15, which is provided with a number of water outlets corresponding to the number of liquid inlets 421 of the multifunctional connector 4 of at least one washing tub. Each liquid inlet 421 of the multifunctional connector 4 is connected to a corresponding water outlet of the water diverter valve 15, and the water inlet of the water diverter valve 15 is connected to the water supply pipe. Further preferably, the liquid inlet 421 of the multifunctional connector 4 is connected to the corresponding water outlet of the water diverter valve 15 via a water inlet hose.

[0056] The above is about the design of the water inlet pipe. The design of the exhaust pipe is as follows: Figure 8 As shown, the exhaust manifold 8 is preferably provided with an atmospheric communication hole 435 at a position higher than the water inlet 101 of the washing machine's highest washing tub, and a liquid drain outlet at a position equal to or lower than the washing machine's lowest washing tub drain outlet, which is connected to the washing machine's drain assembly 13. To connect the exhaust outlet on the multifunctional connector to the exhaust manifold, it is further preferred in this embodiment that the exhaust manifold 8 is provided with a branch pipe communication hole 81. The exhaust outlets on multiple multifunctional connectors are correspondingly connected to multiple exhaust branch pipes 11, each of which is connected to the exhaust manifold 8 through the branch pipe communication hole 81.

[0057] Taking into account user needs and production cost issues, it is preferred in this embodiment that the multi-barrel washing machine has three washing barrels, namely the first washing barrel 1, the second washing barrel 2 and the third washing barrel 3, wherein the corresponding outer barrel on each washing barrel is provided with a water inlet 101, and the liquid outlet 422 of the multi-function connector 4 is connected with the water inlet 101 through the water inlet pipe 16, so as to realize water inlet to the inner barrels of different washing barrels; the liquid inlet 421 of the multi-function connector corresponds to the water inlet hoses of different washing barrels, namely the first water inlet hose 5, the second water inlet hose 6 and the third water inlet hose 7, wherein each water inlet pipe is connected with the external water source through the corresponding water diversion valve 15, finally realizing water inlet to three different washing barrels.

[0058] Considering that when there is an obstruction in the water inlet system of the washing machine, such as when the water is inlet, the washing machine liquid level sensor fails, resulting in the washing machine being unable to judge the amount of water inlet to the washing machine, the washing machine cannot automatically close the water inlet valve and open the drain valve. In order to avoid the water level in the washing machine barrel being too high and causing a safety accident, the multi-tub washing machine provided in this embodiment not only integrates the functions of exhaust, water inlet and defoaming, but also adds a water overflow protection design, such as Figure 6 As shown, preferably, the washing machine also includes an overflow assembly for discharging the foam and / or water overflowing from the outer drum outside the multi-barrel washing machine, and the overflow assembly includes: an overflow port 102, which is arranged on the outer drum; an overflow pipe 9, one end of which is connected to the overflow port 102, and the other end of which is connected to the drainage assembly 13 of the multi-barrel washing machine. Preferably, an overflow interface 10 is provided on the drainage assembly 13, and the other end of the overflow pipe 9 is connected to the drainage assembly 13 through the overflow interface 10. The overflow structure is arranged after the drainage assembly and can effectively play an overflow role. Preferably, the overflow structure is arranged at two-thirds of the drum height. Preferably, the drainage assembly includes a drain valve, one end of the drain valve is connected to the outer drum of the washing machine with a hose, and the other end is connected to the user's home sewer with a drain pipe. A tee is also provided after the drainage assembly for draining the overflow structure.

[0059] In order to further improve the defoaming and exhausting ability of the multi-barrel washing machine, in this embodiment, preferably, a bubble-breaking structure that can puncture bubbles is formed on the inner wall of the air cavity 43 connecting the air inlet 431 and the exhaust port 432. Figure 1-5 As shown, the multifunctional connector 4 preferably includes: a connector body, which is divided into a mutually independent water cavity 42 and air cavity 43 by a partition 41; a bubble-breaking structure capable of puncturing bubbles is formed on the inner wall of the air cavity 43 connecting the air inlet 431 and the exhaust port 432; the exhaust port 432 is located on the connector body at a position higher than or equal to the setting position of the air inlet 431, and the bubble-breaking structure is located at a position higher than or equal to the setting position of the air inlet 431. When the bubbles are punctured by the protrusion, the liquid formed can be discharged from the air inlet 431 along the inner wall of the air cavity 43. The bubble-breaking structure in the multifunctional connector can break up the foam overflowing from the outer tub of the washing machine, converting it into liquid, which then flows back into the inner tub of the washing machine through the water inlet pipe.

[0060] Regarding the bubble breaking structure that performs the defoaming function, in this embodiment, preferably, the bubble breaking structure includes a protrusion formed on the inner wall of the air cavity 43, with the protrusion having a free end extending into the hollow interior of the air cavity 43. To improve the defoaming efficiency, it is further preferred that a plurality of protrusions are provided and staggered along the direction of gas flow toward the exhaust port 432.

[0061] To improve defoaming efficiency, this embodiment not only optimizes the defoaming structure but also refines the structure of the second chamber. Preferably, the air cavity 43 includes an exhaust chamber 433 and a defoaming chamber 434. The air inlet 431 communicates with the exhaust chamber 433, and the exhaust port 432 communicates with the defoaming chamber 434. A connecting hole 435 is formed between the exhaust chamber 433 and the defoaming chamber 434. The diameter of the connecting hole 435 is smaller than the maximum diameter of the exhaust chamber 433. The exhaust port 432 is positioned above or equal to the location of the connecting hole 435, and the connecting hole 435 is positioned above or equal to the location of the air inlet 431. Preferably, a protrusion is formed on the inner wall of the defoaming chamber 434 of the air cavity 43. To improve defoaming efficiency and facilitate immediate defoaming, further preferably, the protrusion is positioned at the connecting hole 435, partially obstructing it. Preferably, the protrusion ensures that exhaust gas entering the defoaming chamber 434 flows toward the protrusion closest to the connecting hole 435.

[0062] like Figure 3 As shown, in order to give full play to the exhaust, defoaming and water inlet functions of the multifunctional connector, in this embodiment, regarding the structure of the multifunctional connector, preferably, the water cavity 42 and the air cavity 43 are formed up and down; the exhaust chamber 433 and the defoaming chamber 434 of the air cavity 43 are formed up and down; the defoaming chamber 434 is located above the exhaust chamber 433, and the exhaust chamber 433 is located above the water cavity 42; the protrusion includes a first protrusion 436 and a second protrusion 437, wherein: the first protrusion 436 is formed at the connecting hole 435, blocking part of the connecting hole 435; the second protrusion 437 is formed on the inner wall of the defoaming chamber 434 of the air cavity 43; and the first protrusion 436 and the second protrusion 437 are staggered. When the blocked foam enters the second chamber, it preferentially passes through the exhaust chamber. The foam will overflow into the connecting hole. The first protrusion on the connecting hole preferentially breaks the foam. Simultaneously, the foam, blocked by the first protrusion, continues to rise into the defoaming space. It is then broken by the second protrusion and converted into liquid, which can be discharged from the air inlet along the inner wall of the second chamber. This structure prevents foam overflow and avoids electrical safety hazards, while also providing an exhaust function and improving product safety. To save production processes, the second protrusion 437 is preferably detachably mounted on the multi-functional connector 4.

[0063] Based on the above structure, in order to improve the defoaming effect of the multifunctional joint, preferably, the first protrusion 436 and the second protrusion 437 are in the form of a retaining plate. Of course, it is not limited to the above scheme. The protrusion can also be designed with a grid-like sheet structure with different densities. In addition to optimizing the shape of the protrusion structure, this embodiment also designs the spacing between the protrusions. Preferably, the distance between the first protrusion 436 and the second protrusion 437 is 10mm-40mm to ensure that small bubbles can be effectively squeezed out. Preferably, the inner diameter of the defoaming cavity is equal to the inner diameter of the connecting hole 435, and the extended length of the first protrusion 436 and the second protrusion 437 is equal to the radius of the connecting hole 435.

[0064] In order to improve the exhaust and defoaming effect of the multifunctional joint, the exhaust pipe setting of the washing machine is optimized, such as Figure 1 As shown, preferably, one end of the exhaust port 432 of the defoaming chamber 434, which is open to the atmosphere, is connected to one end of an exhaust branch pipe 11, which is also open to the atmosphere. The other end of the exhaust branch pipe 11 is connected to a corresponding exhaust branch pipe 11. Furthermore, preferably, a porous structure 12 is formed on the inner wall of the exhaust branch pipe 11, facing the direction of liquid flow, to further reduce the risk of foam overflow. The porous structure is arranged on the inner cross-section of the exhaust branch pipe 11, forming a certain angle with the liquid and / or bubbles flowing toward the porous structure, preferably equal to 90°.

[0065] To enhance the user experience of this multifunctional connector, this embodiment addresses the noise generated during water intake. Preferably, the multifunctional connector has a variable diameter structure, wherein the diameter of the liquid inlet 421 is smaller than that of the liquid outlet 422. Furthermore, preferably, the water chamber 42 comprises an inlet chamber and an outlet chamber, the diameter of which is smaller than that of the outlet chamber. Both chambers are arranged transversely together and have circular cross-sections. The inlet 421 is located on the end of the inlet chamber away from the outlet chamber, and the outlet 422 is located on the side of the outlet chamber away from the inlet. An arc-shaped flow guide structure is formed between the inlet and outlet chambers. This arc-shaped flow guide structure directs water flowing from the inlet chamber into the outlet chamber tangentially along the inner wall of the outlet chamber. Furthermore, preferably, the highest point of the circular cross-section of the liquid inlet 421 is tangential to the lowest point of the circular cross-section of the liquid outlet 422. This effectively divides the pressure of the water flow through the multifunctional connector and effectively disperses the water flow along the pipe wall, significantly reducing noise generation.

[0066] The multi-barrel washing machine provided in this embodiment uses a multifunctional connector that can achieve three major functions: water intake, foam removal, and exhaust. When the air pressure in the drum of the multi-barrel washing machine is too high, the gas can be discharged from the exhaust hole to maintain the air pressure balance in the drum and avoid abnormal water intake and drainage caused by excessive air pressure in the drum. At the same time, when high foaming occurs in the washing machine drum, the foam will overflow onto the connecting hole. The first protrusion and the second protrusion can effectively break the foam. After the foam becomes liquid, it can flow back into the washing machine drum through the rotating multifunctional connector. This structure can prevent foam overflow and avoid electrical safety hazards. The multifunctional connector adopts a variable diameter design, which can reduce the impact of water flow on the inner drum during water intake, thereby reducing the noise of washing and improving the user experience. The multifunctional connector water inlet pipe design and the exhaust pipe with an exhaust main pipe simplify the pipeline layout, reduce the space occupied by the pipeline system, and reduce production and assembly costs.

[0067] Example 2

[0068] This embodiment provides a washing machine, including a washing tub, on which a multifunctional connector 4 with water inlet and exhaust functions is provided on the side of the water inlet 101 of the washing tub; the multifunctional connector 4 is provided with a liquid inlet 421, a liquid outlet 422, an air inlet 431, an exhaust port 432, and a water cavity 42 formed on the multifunctional connector 4 and internally connected to the liquid inlet 421 and the liquid outlet 422, and an air cavity 43 connected to the air inlet 431 and the exhaust port 432; the water cavity 42 and the air cavity 43 are independent of each other; the water inlet 101 of the washing tub is connected to the liquid outlet 422 and the air inlet 431 of the multifunctional connector 4; the liquid inlet 421 of the multifunctional connector 4 is connected to the water supply pipeline of the washing machine; and the exhaust port 432 of the multifunctional connector 4 is connected to the atmosphere or the exhaust main pipe 8.

[0069] The washing machine provided in this embodiment is based on the piping design and the multi-functional joint design of the multi-barrel washing machine provided in Example 1, wherein the scheme in which the exhaust port of the multi-functional joint is connected to the exhaust main pipe is the same as that in Example 1, and is achieved through an exhaust branch pipe; in the scheme in which the exhaust port of the multi-functional joint is connected to the atmosphere, an exhaust branch pipe is provided on the exhaust port, and the other end of the exhaust branch pipe is connected to the atmosphere.

[0070] In summary, the present invention provides a washing machine comprising a washing tub, wherein a multifunctional connector having both water inlet and exhaust functions is provided on the water inlet side of the washing tub; the multifunctional connector is provided with a liquid inlet, a liquid outlet, an air inlet, an exhaust port, and a water cavity formed on the multifunctional connector and internally connected to the liquid inlet and the liquid outlet, and an air cavity connected to the air inlet and the exhaust port; the water cavity and the air cavity are independent of each other; the water inlet of the washing tub is connected to both the liquid outlet and the air inlet of the multifunctional connector; the liquid inlet of the multifunctional connector is connected to the water supply pipe of the washing machine; and the exhaust port of the multifunctional connector is connected to the atmosphere or an exhaust main pipe. The multifunctional connector of the washing machine can realize the three functions of water inlet, defoaming, and exhaust, and at the same time, combined with the design of the exhaust main pipe, simplifies the pipeline layout, reduces the space occupied by the pipeline system, and reduces the production and assembly costs; thus solving the problem that the water inlet structure of the washing machine only has the function of water inlet but no defoaming or exhaust functions.

[0071] While the exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure have been specifically illustrated and described above, it should be understood that the present disclosure is not limited to the detailed structures, configurations, or implementations described herein; rather, the present disclosure is intended to encompass various modifications and equivalent configurations within the spirit and scope of the appended claims.

Claims

1. A washing machine comprising a washing tub, characterized in that: A multifunctional joint (4) with water inlet and exhaust functions is provided on the side of the water inlet (101) of the washing tub; The multifunctional joint (4) is provided with a liquid inlet (421), a liquid outlet (422), an air inlet (431), an air outlet (432), and a water cavity (42) formed on the multifunctional joint (4) and internally connected to the liquid inlet (421) and the liquid outlet (422), and an air cavity (43) connected to the air inlet (431) and the air outlet (432); the water cavity (42) and the air cavity (43) are independent of each other, and the water cavity (42) and the air cavity (43) are formed up and down; The water inlet (101) of the washing bucket is in communication with the liquid outlet (422) and the air inlet (431) of the multifunctional joint (4); The liquid inlet (421) of the multifunctional connector (4) is in communication with the water supply pipeline of the washing machine; the exhaust port (432) of the multifunctional connector (4) is in communication with the atmosphere or the exhaust main pipe (8); The air cavity (43) comprises an exhaust chamber (433) and a defoaming chamber (434); the exhaust chamber (433) and the defoaming chamber (434) of the air cavity (43) are formed up and down; the defoaming chamber (434) is located above the exhaust chamber (433); the exhaust chamber (433) is located above the water cavity (42); the air inlet (431) is in communication with the exhaust chamber (433); the exhaust port (432) is in communication with the defoaming chamber (434); a communicating hole (435) is formed between the exhaust chamber (433) and the defoaming chamber (434); the exhaust port (432) is located at a position higher than or equal to a setting position of the communicating hole (435); and the communicating hole (435) is located at a position higher than or equal to a setting position of the air inlet (431); A bubble-breaking structure capable of puncturing bubbles is formed on the inner wall of the air cavity (43) connecting the air inlet (431) and the air outlet (432); The bubble breaking structure is higher than or equal to the setting position of the air inlet (431), and the liquid formed after the bubble is punctured by the protrusion can be discharged from the air inlet (431) along the inner wall of the air cavity (43); The bubble breaking structure comprises a protrusion formed on the inner wall of the air cavity (43), wherein the protrusion has a free end extending toward the hollow interior of the air cavity (43); The protrusions include a first protrusion (436) and a second protrusion (437), wherein: The first protrusion (436) is formed at the communicating hole (435) to partially block the communicating hole (435); the second protrusion (437) is formed on the inner wall of the defoaming chamber (434) of the air cavity (43); and the first protrusion (436) and the second protrusion (437) are arranged in an alternating manner.

2. The washing machine according to claim 1, wherein: The washing machine comprises a plurality of washing tubs, the multifunctional connector (4) being provided on the water inlet (101) side of at least one of the washing tubs, and the exhaust port (432) of the multifunctional connector (4) being connected to the exhaust main pipe (8) via an exhaust branch pipe (11).

3. The washing machine according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The exhaust manifold (8) is provided with an atmosphere communication hole (435) at a position higher than the water inlet (101) of the washing tub at the highest position of the washing machine, and a liquid discharge port is provided at a position equal to or lower than the drain port of the washing tub at the lowest position of the washing machine, the liquid discharge port being in communication with the drain assembly (13) of the washing machine.

4. The washing machine according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The liquid outlet (422) and the air inlet (431) of the multifunctional joint (4) are arranged on the same side of the multifunctional joint (4); a water inlet pipe (16) is connected between the water inlet (101) of the washing tub and the liquid outlet (422) and the air inlet (431) of the multifunctional joint (4); one end of the water inlet pipe (16) is connected to the water inlet (101) of the washing tub, and the other end is connected to the end side of the multifunctional joint (4) provided with the liquid outlet (422) and the air inlet (431).

5. The washing machine according to claim 4, wherein: The water inlet pipe (16) is a corrugated pipe.

6. The washing machine according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The washing tub of the washing machine comprises an inner tub and an outer tub, and the water inlet (101) of the washing tub is arranged on the outer tub.

7. The washing machine according to claim 6, wherein: The washing machine is provided with a water diversion valve (15), the water diversion valve (15) being provided with water outlet holes corresponding to the number of the liquid inlet (421) of the multifunctional connector (4) of at least one washing tub, each liquid inlet (421) of the multifunctional connector (4) being connected to a water outlet hole corresponding to the water diversion valve (15), and the water inlet of the water diversion valve (15) being connected to a water supply pipe.

8. The washing machine according to claim 7, wherein: The washing machine further includes an overflow assembly for discharging foam and / or water overflowing from the outer tub out of the washing machine. The overflow assembly includes: An overflow port (102) is provided on the outer cylinder; An overflow pipe (9) has one end connected to the overflow port (102) and the other end connected to the drainage assembly (13) of the washing machine.

9. The washing machine according to claim 8, wherein: The drainage assembly (13) is provided with an overflow interface (10), and the other end of the overflow pipe (9) is connected to the drainage assembly (13) through the overflow interface (10).

10. The washing machine according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The multifunctional connector (4) comprises: The joint body is divided by a partition plate (41) into a water cavity (42) and an air cavity (43) which are independent of each other.

11. The washing machine according to claim 1, wherein: The diameter of the communication hole (435) is smaller than the maximum diameter of the exhaust chamber (433).

12. The washing machine according to claim 1, wherein: One end of the exhaust port (432) of the defoaming chamber (434) that is in communication with the atmosphere is connected to one end of an exhaust branch pipe (11) that is in communication with the atmosphere, and the other end of the exhaust branch pipe (11) is in communication with the exhaust main pipe (8).

13. The washing machine according to claim 12, wherein: A porous structure (12) facing the direction of liquid flow is formed on the inner wall of the exhaust branch pipe (11).

14. The washing machine according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The multifunctional joint (4) is a variable diameter structure, wherein the diameter of the liquid inlet (421) is smaller than the diameter of the liquid outlet (422).

15. The washing machine according to claim 14, wherein: The water cavity (42) comprises a water inlet cavity and a water outlet cavity, the diameter of the water inlet cavity is smaller than the diameter of the water outlet cavity, the two are arranged together transversely and both have a circular cross-section, the liquid inlet (421) is arranged on one end of the water inlet cavity away from the water outlet cavity, and the liquid outlet (422) is arranged on the side of the water outlet cavity away from the water inlet cavity, and an arc-shaped guide structure is formed between the water inlet cavity and the water outlet cavity, and the arc-shaped guide structure allows water flowing from the water inlet cavity into the water outlet cavity to flow tangentially along the inner wall of the water outlet cavity.

16. The washing machine according to claim 15, wherein: The highest point of the circular cross-section of the liquid inlet (421) is tangent to the lowest point of the circular cross-section of the liquid outlet (422).

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