Water seal structure for washing equipment and washing equipment

Abstract

The present invention discloses a water seal structure for a washing device and a washing device. The water seal structure includes a water tank, and is provided on the water tank with: an air inlet, which is positioned near the bottom of the water tank and is configured to be connected to the fan of the washing device through an air inlet pipe; an air outlet, which is positioned at the upper part of the water tank and is configured to form air communication with the washing drum of the washing device through the air outlet pipe, and is positioned lower than the fan in the vertical direction in the assembled state; a water inlet, which is configured to be connected to the water source of the washing device through the water inlet pipe, so that water is introduced into the water tank through the water inlet to submerge the air inlet to form a water seal state; and a siphon interface, which is configured to be connected to the drainage pump of the washing device through the siphon, so that the water in the water tank is discharged by the drainage pump to expose the air inlet to form a ventilation state, wherein in the vertical direction, the siphon interface is positioned higher than the air outlet or the siphon extends higher than the air outlet. The water seal structure is reliable, stable, and has low manufacturing cost.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to washing equipment, in particular to a water seal structure for washing equipment and the washing equipment. Background Art

[0002] In conventional washing machines, users often remove laundry from the washing machine and air it out to dry immediately after washing. However, in some cases, users may forget or be unable to remove the washed laundry promptly. This leaves the wet laundry inside the closed chamber for extended periods, which can easily lead to odors and even mold. Furthermore, users often close the door after removing the laundry before the washing machine has fully dried. Moisture, residual detergent, and residual stains can also easily cause odors and bacterial growth inside the washing machine, impacting wash quality and even endangering user health. Therefore, washing machines are typically equipped with ventilation systems. This ventilation system uses a fan to ventilate the washing drum, so an air duct is provided between the drum and the fan. During the washing process, if a large amount of detergent is used or the laundry is not lightly soiled, excessive foam is generated. This foam fills the drum, increasing pressure within the drum. Furthermore, when a high-temperature cycle is selected, the drum pressure also increases as the temperature rises. During subsequent wash cycles, the rotation of the washing drum creates more foam. The lack of space inside the washing drum can cause fluid (primarily foam, steam, and water containing detergent and dirt) to overflow along the air duct connecting the washing drum and the fan, damaging the fan. If foam overflows into the washing machine, it can also damage other electrical components. This not only shortens the life of the washing machine but also causes significant inconvenience to the user.

[0003] To prevent foam and steam from entering the ventilation duct of a washing machine and damaging the fan or other components, Chinese invention patent application publication CN101328661A discloses a drum washing machine. This drum washing machine incorporates a sealing disc in the air duct connecting the fan and the washing drum. This sealing disc is driven by a drive device to rotate within the air duct, switching between a closed position (blocking the air duct) and an open position (opening the duct). The drive device comprises a rack-and-pinion transmission with a solenoid valve connected to the rack. During a wash cycle, a control system controls the rack-and-pinion transmission via the solenoid valve to rotate the sealing disc to the closed position, sealing the air duct. This prevents water vapor and foam generated during washing from the washing drum along the air duct and into the fan and other components. When the wash cycle is complete, the control system controls the rack-and-pinion transmission via the solenoid valve to rotate the sealing disc to the open position, opening the air duct and allowing air to enter through the air inlet for dehumidification. This technical solution requires additional moving components, such as a drive device and a solenoid valve. These moving parts are likely to malfunction, which in turn affects the reliability of the entire machine and increases maintenance costs.

[0004] Accordingly, this field requires a new technical solution to solve the above problems. Summary of the Invention

[0005] In order to solve the above-mentioned problems in the prior art that the sealing device of the ventilation duct of the washing equipment is high in cost and has stability and reliability that need to be improved, the present invention provides a water seal structure for a washing equipment, the water seal structure includes a water tank, and the water tank is provided with: an air inlet, which is positioned near the bottom of the water tank and is configured to be connected to the fan of the washing equipment through an air inlet pipe; an air outlet, which is positioned at the upper part of the water tank and is configured to form air communication with the washing drum of the washing equipment through the air outlet pipe, and is positioned lower than the fan in the vertical direction in the assembled state; a water inlet, which is configured to be connected to the water source of the washing equipment through the water inlet pipe, so that water can be introduced into the water tank through the water inlet to submerge the air inlet to form a water seal state; and a siphon pipe interface, which is configured to be connected to the drain pump of the washing equipment through a siphon pipe, so that the water in the water tank can be discharged by means of the drain pump to expose the air inlet to form a ventilation state, wherein, in the vertical direction, the siphon pipe interface is positioned higher than the air outlet or the siphon pipe extends higher than the air outlet.

[0006] Those skilled in the art will appreciate that, in the technical solution of the water seal structure of the present invention, the water seal structure primarily comprises a water tank, which is provided with an air inlet, an air outlet, a water inlet, and a siphon pipe interface. The air inlet can be connected to the fan of the washing machine via the air inlet pipe, while the air outlet can be connected to the washing drum of the washing machine via the air outlet pipe. When the water seal structure is assembled in the washing machine, the air outlet is vertically positioned lower than the fan to prevent water in the water tank from flowing into the fan. The water inlet can be connected to the water source of the washing machine via the water inlet pipe, allowing water to be injected into the water tank through the water inlet to submerge the air inlet when necessary. The siphon pipe interface is connected to the drainage pump of the washing machine via the siphon pipe to drain water from the water tank when necessary. Vertically, the siphon pipe interface can be positioned higher than the air outlet, or the siphon pipe can extend higher than the air outlet, both of which ensure that water in the water tank does not flow along the siphon pipe to the drainage pump when the water seal is in place. With the water tank configured as described above, the water seal structure of the present invention can achieve both a water-sealed state and a ventilated state simply by utilizing the existing drainage pump and water source of the washing machine, without requiring any additional moving parts, thereby preventing the possibility of moving part failure. Therefore, the water seal structure of the present invention not only has a low manufacturing cost but also provides reliable and stable performance.

[0007] When water injected into the water tank submerges the air inlet, air communication between the air inlet and the air outlet is lost. This state is referred to as a "water seal state." During washing operations, the washing machine can fill the water tank through the water inlet to submerge the air inlet. This causes the water seal structure to enter the water seal state, cutting off the air duct between the washing machine's fan and the washing tub. This prevents steam and foam within the washing tub from escaping along the air duct and reaching the fan and other electrical components within the washing machine's housing. Therefore, this water seal protects the fan and other electrical components from damage. When the water in the water tank is drained through the siphon by the washing machine's drain pump, air communication between the air inlet and the air outlet is restored. This state is referred to as a "ventilation state." When the washing machine is ventilating the washing tub, the water seal structure is in the ventilation state. In this ventilation state, the washing machine's fan blows air into the water tank from the air inlet. The air then flows from the water tank through the air outlet and into the washing tub via the air outlet pipe, thereby ventilating the washing tub.

[0008] Because the air inlet is positioned near the bottom of the water tank and the air outlet is positioned at the top, the air outlet is vertically higher than the air inlet. This ensures that the water level in the water tank submerges the air inlet but does not exceed the air outlet, allowing excess water to drain directly out of the air outlet. By filling the water tank to submerge the air inlet and allowing excess water to drain out of the air outlet, the air duct between the air inlet and outlet pipes is sealed and closed, while also ensuring the stability and reliability of the water seal structure. When the washing machine's washing cycle ends, the washing machine can drain the water from the water tank through a siphon connected to the drain pump, establishing air communication between the air inlet and outlet pipes, and further establishing air communication between the fan and the washing drum. This means that the water seal structure of the present invention can control the connection and interruption of the air duct of the ventilation system of the washing machine. Because the water seal structure of the present invention is essentially composed of a water tank and corresponding connecting pipes, it not only has no moving parts but also has low manufacturing costs. The water seal structure of the present invention replaces the expensive electric valve in the prior art to prevent the overflow of foam and steam from the washing equipment during washing, thereby saving the cost of the washing equipment and improving the stability and reliability of the washing equipment.

[0009] In the preferred technical solution of the water seal structure for the washing device described above, the water inlet is configured to be connected to the spray pipe of the washing device through the water inlet pipe. The spray pipe is a pipe used to continuously spray washing water to the window of the washing device when the washing device performs a washing program to rinse the detergent or washing powder on the observation window glass. Therefore, a water source connected to the water inlet is provided by the spray pipe. The water inlet is configured to be connected to the spray pipe, so that the water tank can be continuously filled with water during the washing process. In this way, there is no need to set up a separate water inlet switch valve for the water tank. The water inlet switch valve is shared with the spray pipe, and part of the pipeline of the spray pipe is shared. This further saves the manufacturing cost of the water seal structure, simplifies the system structure, improves the assembly efficiency, and reduces the maintenance cost.

[0010] In the preferred technical solution for the water seal structure for washing equipment described above, the water inlet is configured to be connected to the main water inlet of the washing equipment via the water inlet pipe. The main water inlet is connected to an external water source to provide washing water to the various water-requiring components of the washing equipment. Therefore, the water source connected to the water inlet can be directly provided through the main water inlet. Configuring the water inlet to be independently connected to the main water inlet allows for more flexible piping arrangements for the water seal structure and, in the event of a malfunction of the spray device, allows the water seal structure to remain operational, thereby reducing the failure rate of the water seal structure.

[0011] In the preferred technical solution of the water seal structure for washing equipment, the siphon interface is configured to allow the siphon to extend through it into the water tank and to a position close to the bottom of the water tank; or the siphon interface is provided with a siphon pipe, which extends into the water tank to a position close to the bottom of the water tank, and the siphon can be connected to the siphon pipe through the siphon interface. The situation where the siphon is directly inserted into the water tank simplifies the connection method with the siphon interface, further saving manufacturing costs. The situation where the siphon is connected to the siphon pipe through the siphon interface helps to fix the siphon.

[0012] In the preferred technical solution of the water seal structure for a washing machine, the siphon tube is formed into an inverted U-shape. In the ventilation state, the water in the water tank is drawn upward along the inverted U-shaped siphon tube by the drainage pump, then flows horizontally and downward, finally exiting the washing machine through the drainage pump. This allows the water in the water tank to be quickly pumped out to at least a point where the air inlet is fully exposed. During washing operation, the inverted U-shaped siphon tube prevents water from flowing from the siphon tube to the drainage pump.

[0013] The present invention also provides a washing device, comprising a washing drum, a fan, a drain pump, and a water seal structure according to the above description, wherein the fan is connected to the air inlet of the water tank via the air inlet pipe, and the fan is vertically positioned higher than the air outlet of the water tank; the washing drum is in air communication with the air outlet of the water tank via the air outlet pipe; the drain pump is in fluid communication with the water tank via the siphon; and the washing device is configured to inject water into the water tank via the water inlet. The fan is used to enhance the ventilation function of the washing device, blowing air toward the interior of the washing drum that requires ventilation and dehumidification. The drain pump is used to empty the washing water in the washing drum and the water used for sealing in the water tank. By setting the water seal structure of the present invention on the air duct between the fan and the washing drum, the connection and interruption of the air duct in the washing device can be stably and reliably achieved, and the manufacturing cost of the washing device is reduced.

[0014] In the preferred technical solution of the above-mentioned washing device, the washing device includes a main water inlet that can be connected to an external water source and a spray pipe connected to the main water inlet, and the spray pipe is connected to the water inlet of the water tank. The main water inlet provides water to various parts of the washing device that require water supply, wherein the main water inlet continuously provides water to the observation window of the washing device through the spray pipe during the washing process. The spray pipe is configured to be connected to the water inlet of the water tank, so that the water tank can be continuously supplied with water through the spray pipe during the washing process. By sharing the water inlet switch valve and part of the pipeline with the spray pipe, the cost of the washing device is further reduced.

[0015] In the preferred technical solution of the above-mentioned washing device, the washing device includes a main water inlet pipe connected to the main water inlet, the main water inlet pipe is connected to the washing tub to supply washing water thereto, a U-shaped water seal portion is provided on the main water inlet pipe, and an auxiliary siphon pipe is provided between the U-shaped water seal portion and the drain pump. The main water inlet is connected to the washing tub through the main water inlet pipe. The U-shaped water seal portion on the main water inlet pipe can prevent the foam and steam in the washing tub from overflowing from the main water inlet pipe during the washing process, and can also prevent the washing water from being thrown out of the main water inlet pipe during the dehydration process. In the ventilation state, with the help of the operation of the drain pump, the water in the U-shaped water seal is discharged through the auxiliary siphon pipe, and the main water inlet can be used as an exhaust port. Through the joint action of the U-shaped water seal portion and the auxiliary siphon pipe, the connection and interruption of the air duct between the main water inlet and the washing tub can be achieved.

[0016] In a preferred embodiment of the washing machine, the auxiliary siphon is connected to the lowest end of the U-shaped water seal, forming an inverted U-shape. This inverted U-shape effectively prevents water from escaping from the auxiliary siphon while the U-shaped water seal is sealed. Connecting the auxiliary siphon to the lowest portion of the U-shaped water seal allows for complete drainage of the water within the U-shaped water seal when ventilation is required, preventing residual water from flowing out of the water outlet via wind and causing inconvenience to the user.

[0017] In a preferred technical solution of the above-mentioned washing device, the washing device further includes a window, wherein the window is provided with a window gasket arranged around the opening of the washing drum, and the window gasket is provided with a groove, through which the air outlet pipe is connected to the washing drum through the groove. Since the window gasket is used to seal and connect the washing drum, it is usually in a wet state. By providing a groove on the window gasket to connect the ventilation pipe to the washing drum through the air, not only does it not require the arrangement of additional pipes, but it can also ventilate a wider range of the wet window gasket. This design solution not only saves manufacturing costs but also significantly improves the beneficial effect of dehumidification.

[0018] In the preferred technical solution of the above-mentioned washing machine, the main water inlet pipe is located at the top rear side of the washing drum. When the washing machine is in the ventilated state, the main water inlet serves as an exhaust port connected to the outside air. The fan enters the washing drum through a window gasket arranged at the outer periphery of the washing drum opening, that is, air enters the washing drum from the front. Placing the main water inlet pipe at the rear side of the washing drum means that air enters from the front side of the washing drum and exits from the rear side through the main water inlet connected to the outside air. This allows for a wider ventilation range and better ventilation.

[0019] In the preferred technical solution of the above washing device, the fan is an axial flow fan and is installed on the upper part of the washing device. Axial flow fans are easy to install, low in cost, low in power consumption, and low in noise. The application of axial flow fans can further improve the user experience. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0020] The preferred embodiments of the present invention are described below with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0021] Figure 1 It is a plan view of an embodiment of a washing device of the present invention;

[0022] Figure 2 1 is a schematic plan view of an embodiment of the washing apparatus of the present invention in a water-sealed state;

[0023] Figure 3 yes Figure 2 The diagram is a partially enlarged plan view of a portion A of a water seal structure of an embodiment of a washing device according to the present invention;

[0024] Figure 4 It is a plan view of an embodiment of a water seal structure for washing equipment according to the present invention.

[0025] List of reference numerals:

[0026] 1. Washing equipment; 10. Casing; 11. Fan; 111. Fan outlet; 12. Drain pump; 13. Water seal structure; 14. Window; 41. Window gasket; 42. Observation window; 15. Washing tub; 51. Outer tub; 52. Inner tub; 16. Spray pipe; 17. Main water inlet pipe; 71. U-shaped water seal; 18. Distributor water box; 31. Air inlet pipe; 32. Air outlet pipe; 33. Water tank; 331. Air inlet ; 332. Air outlet; 333. Water inlet; 334. Siphon tube interface; 335. Top wall of the water tank; 336. Bottom wall of the water tank; 337. Upper part of the water tank; 34. Water inlet pipe; 35. Siphon tube; 351. First end of the siphon tube; 352. Second end of the siphon tube; 36. Auxiliary siphon tube; 361. First end of the auxiliary siphon tube; 362. Second end of the auxiliary siphon tube; 37. Drain pump connection pipe. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0027] The preferred embodiments of the present invention are described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. It should be understood by those skilled in the art that these embodiments are only used to explain the technical principles of the present invention and are not intended to limit the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0028] It should be noted that in the description of the present invention, terms such as "upper," "lower," "left," "right," "front," "back," "inside," "outside," "top," "bottom," and "vertical" indicating directions or positional relationships are based on the directions or positional relationships shown in the accompanying drawings. These are merely for ease of description and do not indicate or imply that the device or component described must have a specific orientation, be constructed, or operate in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on the present invention. Furthermore, the terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance.

[0029] Furthermore, it should be noted that, in the description of the present invention, unless otherwise expressly specified or limited, terms such as "installed," "connected," "set," and "connected" should be understood broadly. For example, they may refer to fixed connections, detachable connections, or integral connections; they may refer to direct connections, indirect connections through an intermediate medium, or internal communication between two components or interaction between two components. Those skilled in the art will understand the specific meanings of the above terms in the present invention based on specific circumstances.

[0030] In order to solve the above-mentioned problems in the prior art that the sealing device (which may also be called "overflow prevention device") in the ventilation system of the washing device is relatively high in cost and has stability and reliability that need to be improved, the present invention provides a water seal structure 13 for the washing device 1, the water seal structure 13 includes a water tank 33, and is provided on the water tank 33 with: an air inlet 331, which is positioned near the bottom of the water tank 33 and is configured to be connected to the fan 11 of the washing device 1 through the air inlet pipe 31; an air outlet 332, which is positioned at the upper part of the water tank 33 and is configured to form air communication with the washing drum 15 of the washing device 1 through the air outlet pipe 32, and its In the assembled state, the washing machine 1 is vertically positioned lower than the fan 11; the water inlet 333 is configured to be connected to the water source of the washing machine 1 through the water inlet pipe 34, so that water can be introduced into the water tank 13 through the water inlet 333 to submerge the air inlet 331 to form a water-sealed state; and the siphon pipe interface 334 is configured to be connected to the drain pump 12 of the washing machine 1 through the siphon pipe 35, so that the water in the water tank 13 can be drained by the drain pump 12 to expose the air inlet 331 to form a ventilated state, wherein, in the vertical direction, the siphon pipe interface 334 is positioned higher than the air outlet 332 or the siphon pipe 35 extends higher than the air outlet 332. When the washing machine 1 runs a washing program, the washing machine 1 can fill the water tank 33 with water through the water inlet 333 of the water tank 33 to submerge the air inlet 331, thereby cutting off the air duct between the washing tub 15 and the fan 11. The air outlet 332 is higher than the air inlet 331, and the fan 11 is also higher than the air outlet 332. Therefore, excess water can be discharged directly from the air outlet 332 and will not flow into the fan 11. In addition, because the siphon tube interface 334 is higher than the air outlet 332 or the siphon tube 35 extends higher than the air outlet 332, the water in the water tank 33 will not automatically flow into the drain pump 12 along the siphon tube 35 when the washing machine 1 is in the water-sealed state. When the washing machine 1 needs to be ventilated, the drain pump 12 operates, siphoning the water in the water tank 33 through the siphon tube 35. The water in the water tank 33 is then sucked away by the drain pump 12 along the siphon tube 35, exposing the air inlet 331. This allows air communication between the air inlet 331 and the air outlet 332, thereby allowing the fan 11 to blow air into the washing tub 15.

[0031] Figure 1 It is a plan view of an embodiment of a washing device of the present invention; Figure 2 FIG. 1 is a schematic plan view of an embodiment of the washing apparatus of the present invention in a water-sealed state. Figure 1 and Figure 2As shown, in one or more embodiments, a washing machine 1 includes: a housing 10; a fan 11, a drain pump 12, and a washing tub 15 disposed within the housing 10; and a window 14 provided on the front wall of the housing 10. Window 14 is used for placing and removing laundry (including but not limited to clothing). Window 14 is provided with an observation window 42 for observing the washing process. Window 14 is also provided with a window gasket 41 disposed circumferentially around the opening of an outer tub 51, sealing and connecting the observation window 42. A groove is provided on the outer circumference of the window gasket 41, which communicates with the interior of the washing tub 15. The washing tub 15 includes an outer tub 51 for storing water and an inner tub 52 for both washing and dehydrating. The inner tub 52 is disposed within the outer tub 51 and is rotatable relative to the outer tub 51. When ventilation is required for the washing tub 15, the fan 11 blows air into the washing tub 15 through an air duct. The fan 11 includes but is not limited to a centrifugal fan. During the washing process, the drain pump 12 is used to drain the wash water from the washing tub 15. A main water inlet (not shown) is provided on the upper portion of the housing 10 for connecting to an external water source. The main water inlet includes a switch (not shown) for controlling the flow of water and a dispenser water box 18. Users can add detergent or other laundry treatment agents into the dispenser water box 18. Figure 2 As shown, the dispenser water box 18 is in fluid communication with the washing tub 15 through the main water inlet pipe 17, so that water from an external water source first flows into the dispenser water box 18 and then flows into the washing tub 15 through the main water inlet pipe 17. In one or more embodiments, the main water inlet pipe 17 is in communication with the top rear side of the outer tub 15. Figure 2 As shown, a generally U-shaped water seal 71 is provided on the main water inlet pipe 17 to prevent foam, steam, and even wash water from overflowing from the main water inlet of the washing machine 1 through the main water pipe 17 during the washing process. The dispenser water box 18 is also connected to the spray pipe 16. During the washing process, the spray pipe 16 continuously sprays wash water onto the glass of the observation window 42 to rinse the detergent or washing powder off the glass of the observation window 42.

[0032] In one or more embodiments, the washing device 1 uses the main water inlet pipe 17 as a ventilation channel and sets the air outlet at the main water inlet, that is, the air in the washing tub is discharged through the gap at the dispenser water box 18. In this case, Figure 2As shown, the washing machine 1 is also provided with an auxiliary siphon tube 36. The auxiliary siphon tube 36 has a first end 361 and a second end 362. The first end 361 of the auxiliary siphon tube 36 is connected to the lowest vertical portion (also referred to as the "bottom") of the water seal 71, thereby establishing communication with the water seal 71. The second end 362 of the auxiliary siphon tube 36 is connected to the drain pump connection 37, for example, via a suitable pipe joint. When the washing machine 1 needs to be ventilated, the exhaust pump operates, siphoning water from the water seal 71 through the auxiliary siphon tube 36. This allows the main water inlet pipe 17 to become a connecting air duct between the washing tub 15 and the dispenser water box 18, thereby allowing air in the washing tub 15 to be discharged to the outside of the washing machine 1 through the main water inlet pipe 15 and the dispenser water box 18. When the washing tub 15 is in a washing operation, the auxiliary siphon tube 36 has a portion that extends vertically upward above the water seal 71 to prevent water in the water seal 71 from flowing toward the drain pump 12. In one or more embodiments, the auxiliary siphon pipe 36 itself forms a substantially inverted U-shaped structure, or the auxiliary siphon pipe 36 and a portion of the drain pump connecting pipe 37 together form a substantially inverted U-shaped structure.

[0033] The preferred technical solution of the water seal structure of the present invention is described below in conjunction with the above-mentioned washing equipment.

[0034] like Figure 1 As shown, the water seal structure 13 of the present invention is arranged in the air duct between the fan 11 and the washing tub 15. An air inlet duct 31 is provided between the outlet 111 of the fan 11 and the water seal structure 13, and an air outlet duct 32 is provided between the window gasket 41 and the water seal structure 13. The air inlet duct 31 and the air outlet duct 32 together form part of the air duct of the ventilation system of the washing machine 1. The water seal structure 13 of the present invention is configured to control the connection and interruption of this air duct.

[0035] Figure 3 yes Figure 2 The embodiment of the washing equipment of the present invention is shown as a partially enlarged plan view of the water seal structure of part A. Figure 4 1 is a schematic plan view of an embodiment of the water seal structure for washing equipment of the present invention. Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, the water seal structure 13 has a water tank 33. In one or more embodiments, the water tank 33 is a box body with a rectangular or square cross-section, which has a bottom wall 336 and four circumferential side walls (not shown in the figure). Alternatively, the water tank can be formed into a cylindrical structure with a bottom wall 336 and four circumferential side walls (not shown in the figure).

[0036] like Figure 4As shown, an air inlet 331, an air outlet 332, and a water inlet 333 are provided on the side wall of the water tank 33. The air outlet 332 is located at the upper portion 337 of the water tank. The air outlet 332 is connected to the groove of the window pad 41 through the air outlet pipe 32, and thus communicates with the interior of the washing tub 15. Figure 4 As shown, the highest point of the air outlet 332 in the vertical direction is at a height H2 relative to the bottom wall 336 of the water tank 33. The air inlet 331 is located on the side wall of the water tank close to the bottom wall 336. Therefore, in the vertical direction, the position (i.e., the horizontal height) of the air inlet 331 is lower than that of the air outlet 332, so that in the water-sealed state, the water in the water tank 33 can both submerge the air inlet 331 and not exceed the air outlet 332. The air inlet 331 can be connected to the outlet 111 of the fan 11 through the air inlet pipe 31. Figure 4 As shown, when the water seal structure 13 is installed on the air duct of the washing machine 1 (i.e., assembled with the washing machine 1), in the vertical direction, the lowest point of the outlet 111 of the fan 11 relative to the bottom wall 336 of the water tank 33 is at a height H1, and this height H1 is greater than the height H2 of the air outlet 332. In other words, in the vertical direction, the position of the fan 11 is higher than the position of the air outlet 332, so as to ensure that in the water seal state, the water in the water tank 33 will not flow into the fan 11. Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, in one or more embodiments, the water inlet 333 is located on the side wall of the water tank near the bottom wall 336. Alternatively, the water inlet 333 can be arranged at other locations on the side wall of the water tank, such as near the upper portion 337, the middle portion or other locations of the water tank 33. Alternatively, the water inlet 333 can also be arranged on the top wall 335 or the bottom wall 336 of the water tank 33. Figure 2 In one or more embodiments, the water inlet 333 can be directly connected to the spray pipe 16 of the washing machine 1 via the water inlet pipe 34. In this case, the water from the spray pipe 16 forms the water source that can be injected into the water tank 33. Alternatively, the water inlet 333 can be directly connected to the main water inlet of the washing machine via the water inlet pipe 34. In this case, the water from the main water inlet forms the water source that can be injected into the water tank 33.

[0037] like Figure 3 and Figure 4As shown, in one or more embodiments, a siphon interface 334 is provided on the top wall 335 of the water tank 33. This means that in the vertical direction, the position of the siphon interface 334 is higher than the air outlet 332. In the water-sealed state, this configuration can prevent the water in the water tank from overflowing from the siphon interface 334. The siphon interface 334 is configured to connect the siphon tube 35. In one or more embodiments, the siphon interface 334 is a through hole (not shown in the figure) provided on the top wall 335. Therefore, the siphon tube 35 is vertically inserted into the through hole, and the first end 351 of the siphon tube 35 extends vertically downward in the water tank 33 to a degree that the water in the water tank 33 can be discharged by means of siphon action to the extent that the air inlet 331 is completely exposed. For example, the first end 351 can extend to a position close to the bottom wall 336 so as to completely or almost completely discharge the water in the water tank 33. Since the siphon tube 35 is inserted into the water tank 33 from the top wall 335 of the water tank 33, at least a portion of the siphon tube 35 extends vertically above the air outlet 332. In the water-sealed state, this configuration can prevent the water in the water tank from flowing along the siphon tube 35 to the water pump. Figure 2 In one or more embodiments, the siphon tube 35 generally forms a generally inverted U-shaped structure, having a generally horizontal extension portion and a generally vertically downward extension portion outside the water tank 33. The generally vertically downward extension portion forms a second end 352 of the siphon tube 35. The second end 352 is connected to the drain pump connection 37 via a pipe joint (not shown). Therefore, when the drain pump 12 is operating, a siphon effect is generated within the water tank 33, causing the water within the water tank 33 to be discharged from the washing machine 1 by the drain pump 12 via the siphon tube 35 and the drain pump connection 37. If the washing machine 1 has an auxiliary siphon tube 36, the second end 352 of the siphon tube and the second end 362 of the auxiliary siphon tube 36 can be connected to the drain pump connection 37 via a three-way pipe joint.

[0038] In an alternative embodiment, the siphon interface 334 is equipped with a siphon pipe (not shown). The siphon pipe extends vertically downward from the top wall 335 within the water tank 33 to a position capable of draining water from the water tank 33 by siphoning to a point where the air inlet 331 is fully exposed, for example, extending to a position near the bottom wall 336. The first end 351 of the siphon pipe 35 is fixedly connected to the siphon interface 334 above the top wall 335 and thereby abuts against the siphon pipe, thereby communicating with each other.

[0039] In an alternative embodiment, the siphon interface 334 is disposed on the sidewall of the water tank 33 and is still vertically positioned higher than the air outlet 332. In this case, the siphon interface 334 can be a through-hole, through which the siphon tube 35 is inserted directly into the water tank 33. The siphon tube 35 extends horizontally and then vertically downward within the water tank 33, such that the first end 351 of the siphon tube 35 extends vertically downward within the water tank 33 to a point where the water in the water tank 33 can be drained by siphoning to fully expose the air inlet 331, for example, to a position near the bottom wall 336. Alternatively, the siphon interface 334 can be equipped with a siphon pipe. The siphon pipe extends horizontally from the sidewall of the water tank 33 and then vertically downward to a point where the water in the water tank 33 can be drained by siphoning to fully expose the air inlet 331. The siphon tube 35 connects horizontally with the siphon pipe from the outside of the water tank 33 through the siphon interface 334.

[0040] In an alternative embodiment, the siphon pipe interface 334 is disposed on the sidewall of the water tank 33 and is vertically positioned equal to or lower than the air outlet 332. In this case, a sealing structure is required for the siphon pipe interface 334 to prevent water from leaking out of the water tank through the siphon pipe interface 334. The siphon pipe interface 334 is provided in the form of a through-hole through which the siphon pipe 35 can be sealedly inserted into the water tank 33. The siphon pipe 35 extends vertically upward from the outside of the water tank 33 to a height exceeding the air outlet 332. This prevents water from flowing along the siphon pipe 35 toward the drain pump 12 when in a water-sealed state. If the siphon pipe interface 334 is positioned sufficiently close to the bottom wall 336 so that the siphon pipe 35 only needs to extend horizontally within the water tank 33 to ensure that the water within the water tank 33 is drained to a level that fully exposes the air inlet 331 through the siphon action, the siphon pipe 35 can remain horizontal within the water tank 33 without extending vertically downward. Alternatively, the siphon interface 334 is configured with a siphon pipe extending horizontally in the water tank 33 , and the siphon pipe 35 is horizontally connected to the siphon pipe through the siphon interface 334 from outside the water tank 33 .

[0041] When the washing machine 1 incorporating the water seal structure 13 of the present invention implements a washing program, water is injected into the washing tub 15 through the main water inlet pipe 17, and water is injected into the water tank 33 through the spray pipe 16 or the main water inlet to submerge the air inlet 331. Therefore, the water seal structure 13 is in a water-sealed state, and the water seal portion 71 is also filled with water. This results in the air duct between the fan 11 and the washing tub 15 and the air duct between the main water outlet and the washing tub 15 being cut off, so that the foam and the like in the washing tub 15 are prevented from overflowing along the air duct to other places inside the fan 11 and the housing 10. When the washing program is completed, the drain pump 12 is first started. The action of the drain pump 12 can drain the washing water in the washing tub 15, and at the same time, the water in the water tank 33 and the water seal portion 71 is also drained. After the water in the water tank 33 is drained, the air inlet 331 and air outlet 332 are connected (i.e., ventilated); the main water inlet pipe 17 is also connected, thus connecting all the air ducts within the washing machine 1. Then, the fan 11 starts, and the air blown by the fan 11 enters the drained water tank 33 through the air inlet pipe 31. Then, it passes through the air outlet pipe 32 and into the washing drum 15 via the groove in the window gasket 41. The air leaving the washing drum 15 flows into the main water inlet pipe 17 and is discharged to the outside of the washing machine 1 through the dispenser water box 18. Through this ventilation path, the fan 11 continuously provides airflow to the damp washing drum, achieving the effect of ventilating and dehumidifying the damp interior of the washing drum 15.

[0042] Thus far, the technical solutions of the present invention have been described in conjunction with the preferred embodiments shown in the accompanying drawings. However, it will be readily understood by those skilled in the art that the scope of protection of the present invention is clearly not limited to these specific embodiments. Without departing from the principles of the present invention, those skilled in the art may combine the technical features of different embodiments, or make equivalent changes or substitutions to related technical features. The technical solutions after such changes or substitutions will fall within the scope of protection of the present invention.

Claims

1. A water seal structure for washing equipment, characterized in that: The water seal structure includes a water tank, and is provided on the water tank: an air inlet positioned near the bottom of the water tank and configured to be connected to a fan of the washing device via an air inlet pipe; an air outlet, which is positioned at an upper portion of the water tank and is configured to establish air communication with the washing drum of the washing device through an air outlet pipe, and is positioned lower than the fan in the vertical direction in an assembled state; a water inlet, configured to be connected to a water source of the washing device through a water inlet pipe, so that water is introduced into the water tank through the water inlet to submerge the air inlet to form a water seal; and A siphon interface is configured to be connected to a drain pump of the washing device via a siphon so that the water in the water tank is discharged by means of the drain pump to expose the air inlet to form a ventilated state, wherein in the vertical direction, the siphon interface is positioned higher than the air outlet or the siphon extends higher than the air outlet.

2. The water seal structure for washing equipment according to claim 1, characterized in that: The water inlet is configured to be connectable to a spray pipe of the washing device via the water inlet pipe.

3. The water seal structure for washing equipment according to claim 1, characterized in that: The water inlet is configured to be connectable to a main water inlet of the washing device via the water inlet pipe.

4. The water seal structure for washing equipment according to claim 1, characterized in that: The siphon interface is configured to allow the siphon to extend therethrough into the water tank and to a position near the bottom of the water tank; or The siphon interface is provided with a siphon connecting pipe, which extends inside the water tank to a position close to the bottom of the water tank, and the siphon can be docked with the siphon connecting pipe through the siphon interface.

5. The water seal structure for washing equipment according to claim 1, characterized in that: The siphon forms an inverted U shape.

6. A washing device, characterized in that: The washing equipment comprises a washing drum, a fan, a drainage pump, and a water seal structure according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein: The fan is connected to the air inlet of the water tank through the air inlet pipe, and the fan is positioned higher than the air outlet of the water tank in the vertical direction; The washing tub is in air communication with the air outlet of the water tank through the air outlet pipe; The drain pump is in fluid communication with the water tank via the siphon; and The washing device is configured to be able to fill water into the water tank through the water inlet.

7. The washing equipment according to claim 6, characterized in that The washing device comprises a main water inlet which can be connected to an external water source and a spray pipe connected to the main water inlet, wherein the spray pipe is in communication with the water inlet of the water tank.

8. The washing equipment according to claim 7, characterized in that The washing device includes a main water inlet pipe connected to the main water inlet, the main water inlet pipe is connected to the washing tub to supply washing water thereto, a U-shaped water seal portion is provided on the main water inlet pipe, and an auxiliary siphon pipe is provided between the U-shaped water seal portion and the drainage pump.

9. The washing equipment according to claim 8, characterized in that The auxiliary siphon is communicated with the lowest portion of the U-shaped water seal portion and forms an inverted U shape.

10. The washing equipment according to claim 6, characterized in that The washing device further comprises a window, wherein the window is provided with a window pad arranged around the opening of the washing tub, and the window pad is provided with a groove, and the air outlet pipe is in air communication with the washing tub through the groove.

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