Laundry and shoe washing integrated machine and control method thereof

Abstract

This invention belongs to the technical field of clothing processing devices and discloses a washing and shoe washing machine and its control method. The washing and shoe washing machine includes a washing unit and a shoe washing unit. The drain outlet of the washing unit is connected to the shoe washing unit and the external drain pipe of the washing and shoe washing machine respectively through a switching valve assembly. The washing and shoe washing machine of this invention, by setting a switching valve assembly, connects the drain outlet of the washing unit to both the shoe washing unit and the external drain pipe, and the connection direction of the drain outlet of the washing unit can be controlled by the switching valve assembly. The structure is simple, and it achieves control over the drainage direction of the washing unit, allowing the drainage from the washing unit to be reused in the shoe washing unit, thereby achieving energy and water conservation.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention belongs to the field of clothing processing devices, specifically, it relates to a washing and shoe washing machine and its control method. Background Technology

[0002] With societal development, people's pace of life is accelerating, and their living standards are rising, leading to an increasing reliance on laundry equipment. Existing washing machines can generally meet people's washing needs for clothing and home textiles, but as the fast pace of life reduces the time available for housework, the demand for shoe washing is gradually increasing. Currently, there are dedicated shoe washing machines on the market, but they are bulky, and placing both a washing machine and a shoe washing machine in the home would take up considerable space. For devices with only one washing chamber that combines washing and shoe washing functions, the generally high level of soiling in shoes is detrimental to the hygiene of clothing.

[0003] To address the aforementioned problems, existing technologies have proposed solutions for separately washing clothes and shoes in a single device. For example, Chinese Patent Application No. 201020118094.X discloses a shoe-washable drum washing machine, including a drum washing machine body with a PCB control device inside. A washing machine base is located below the drum washing machine body. The key feature is that a shoe rack is installed inside the washing machine base, and a circulation pump is installed inside the washing machine base. The controlled end of the circulation pump is connected to the PCB control device. Furthermore, a water outlet is located on the upper side of the circulation pump, and a drain outlet and a water inlet are located around the perimeter of the washing machine base.

[0004] However, with the increasing emphasis on energy conservation and environmental protection, the above-mentioned solution, in which the drum washing machine body and the shoe washing device below each have independent water intake for washing, is not conducive to achieving energy-saving and water-saving effects.

[0005] In view of this, the present invention is hereby proposed. Summary of the Invention

[0006] The technical problem to be solved by the present invention is to overcome the shortcomings of the prior art and provide a shoe washing machine with a reusable washing unit and a control method thereof.

[0007] To solve the above-mentioned technical problems, the basic concept of the technical solution adopted by the present invention is as follows:

[0008] A washing and shoe washing machine includes a washing unit and a shoe washing unit. The drain outlet of the washing unit is connected to the external drain pipe of the shoe washing unit and the washing and shoe washing machine through a switching valve assembly.

[0009] Furthermore, the switching valve assembly includes a switching unit, which controls one of the drain outlets of the washing unit to be connected to the shoe washing unit and the external drain pipe.

[0010] Furthermore, the switching valve assembly has a water inlet, a first water outlet, and a second water outlet. The water inlet is connected to the drain outlet of the washing unit, the first water outlet is connected to the shoe washing unit, and the second water outlet is connected to the external drainage pipe.

[0011] The switching unit includes a first control valve that can open / close a first outlet and a second control valve that can open / close a second outlet; at most one of the first control valve and the second control valve is in the open state.

[0012] Another object of the present invention is to provide a control method for the above-described washing and shoe washing machine, comprising the following steps:

[0013] S1. The washing unit completes the washing program, and the switching valve assembly connects the drain outlet of the washing unit with the shoe washing unit to drain water into the shoe washing unit.

[0014] S2. The shoe washing unit uses the washing water from the laundry unit for washing;

[0015] S3. The washing unit completes the rinsing process, and controls whether to drain water into the shoe washing unit based on whether the shoe washing unit has completed the washing process.

[0016] S4. The shoe washing unit uses the rinsing water from the washing unit and / or external water inlet for rinsing.

[0017] Furthermore, in step S3, if the shoe washing unit completes the washing program, the switching valve assembly connects the drain outlet of the washing unit with the shoe washing unit to drain water into the shoe washing unit.

[0018] Preferably, step S4 includes: the shoe washing unit uses the rinsing water discharged from the washing unit to rinse the shoes; after rinsing is completed and the water is drained, the water inlet valve of the shoe washing unit is opened to use external water for the final rinse.

[0019] Furthermore, in step S3, if the shoe washing unit has not completed the washing process, the following steps are executed:

[0020] S31. Obtain the remaining number of rinses N for the washing unit;

[0021] S32. If the remaining number of rinses N is greater than 0, the switching valve assembly connects the drain outlet of the washing unit to the external drain pipe, the washing unit drains water to the outside of the washing and shoe washing machine, and then water is introduced to execute the next rinsing program. After the rinsing program is completed, the system controls whether to drain water to the shoe washing unit again based on whether the shoe washing unit has completed the washing program.

[0022] If the remaining number of rinses N is equal to 0, the washing unit waits for the shoe washing unit to complete the washing program and drain the water before the switching valve assembly connects the drain outlet of the washing unit to the shoe washing unit.

[0023] Furthermore, the switching valve assembly includes a first control valve that controls the connection between the drain outlet of the washing unit and the shoe washing unit, and a second control valve that controls the connection between the drain outlet of the washing unit and the external drainage pipe.

[0024] Step S1 specifically includes:

[0025] S11. After the washing unit completes the washing program, the first control valve opens to drain water into the shoe washing unit.

[0026] S12. When the water level in the shoe washing unit reaches the set shoe washing water level, the first control valve closes and the second control valve opens to drain the remaining washing water from the washing unit into the shoe washing machine.

[0027] Alternatively, when the washing water in the washing unit is drained and the water level in the shoe washing unit has not reached the set shoe washing water level, the first control valve closes and the water inlet valve of the shoe washing unit opens to replenish water to the set shoe washing water level.

[0028] Preferably, a drain pump is installed on the external drain pipe. In step S12, after the first control valve is closed and the second control valve is opened, the drain pump is turned on to drain water to the outside of the washing and shoe washing machine.

[0029] Furthermore, the washing and shoe washing machine has an on / off linkage washing mode. In the linkage washing mode, the washing and shoe washing machine performs steps S1 to S4; otherwise, the shoe washing unit takes in water from the outside to operate independently.

[0030] Furthermore, during the operation of the washing and shoe washing machine in the linked washing mode, if an instruction to close the linked washing mode is received, the switching valve assembly connects the drain outlet of the washing unit with the external drain pipe during the subsequent drainage process of the washing unit, and the shoe washing unit directly receives water from the outside during the subsequent water intake process.

[0031] Furthermore, the shoe washing unit has a preset maximum shoe washing water temperature T. max When the washing machine and shoe washer combo receives a start command, it determines whether the linkage washing mode is turned on.

[0032] If the linked washing mode is enabled, compare the set washing water temperature T of the washing unit with the highest shoe washing water temperature T of the shoe washing unit. max If T>T max The washer-shoe washer combo machine issues a warning message indicating that it cannot perform a combined washing cycle; if T≤T max The washing and shoe washing machine performs steps S1 to S4.

[0033] By adopting the above technical solution, the present invention has the following beneficial effects compared with the prior art.

[0034] In the washing and shoe washing machine of the present invention, by setting a switching valve assembly, the drain outlet of the washing unit is connected to the shoe washing unit and the external drainage pipe respectively. The connection direction of the drain outlet of the washing unit can be controlled by the switching valve assembly, thereby realizing the control of the drainage direction of the washing unit. The drainage of the washing unit can be discharged into the shoe washing unit for reuse, thereby achieving the purpose of energy saving and water saving.

[0035] In the washing and shoe washing machine of the present invention, the switching valve assembly has one water inlet and two water outlets, and also includes a first control valve and a second control valve that control the opening and closing states of the two water outlets respectively. The structure is simple and easy to control.

[0036] The washing and shoe washing machine of this invention can reuse the washing and rinsing water from the washing unit by draining it into the shoe washing unit. In particular, it can use the warm water containing detergent discharged from the washing unit for washing shoes, resulting in energy and water savings. After completing the rinsing cycle, the washing unit obtains the operating status of the shoe washing unit. While the shoe washing unit is not finished with its washing cycle, the washing unit directly drains water and executes the subsequent rinsing cycle. Only when draining water after the final rinsing cycle does the washing unit wait for the shoe washing unit to complete its washing cycle, avoiding unnecessary waiting time and shortening the washing unit's operating time.

[0037] When the user activates the integrated washing and shoe washing machine of the present invention, the set washing water temperature T of the washing unit and the maximum shoe washing water temperature T of the shoe washing unit are also adjusted. max Compare, in case T>T max It prompts users not to perform the linked washing, avoiding damage to the shoes in the shoe washing unit caused by overheated washing water, making it more intelligent.

[0038] The specific embodiments of the present invention will now be described in further detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Attached Figure Description

[0039] The accompanying drawings, as part of this invention, are used to provide a further understanding of the invention. The illustrative embodiments and descriptions of the invention are used to explain the invention, but do not constitute an undue limitation of the invention. Obviously, the drawings described below are merely some embodiments, and those skilled in the art can obtain other drawings based on these drawings without creative effort. In the drawings:

[0040] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the washing and shoe washing machine in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0041] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the switching valve assembly and the surrounding water circuit in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0042] Figure 3 This is the control method flow of the washing and shoe washing machine in the embodiment of the present invention. Figure 1 ;

[0043] Figure 4 This is the control method flow of the washing and shoe washing machine in the embodiment of the present invention. Figure 2 ;

[0044] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the control panel of the washing and shoe washing machine in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0045] In the diagram: 1. Washing unit; 2. Shoe washing unit; 3. External drain pipe; 4. Drain pump; 5. Control panel; 10. Washing drain pipe; 41. Drain inlet; 42. Drain outlet; 51. Washing parameter setting button; 52. Shoe washing parameter setting button; 53. Linked washing mode switch; 54. Start / Pause button; 101. First water outlet; 102. Second water outlet; 103. Water inlet; 111. First control valve; 112. Second control valve.

[0046] It should be noted that these accompanying drawings and textual descriptions are not intended to limit the scope of the invention in any way, but rather to illustrate the concept of the invention to those skilled in the art by referring to specific embodiments. Detailed Implementation

[0047] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of the embodiments of the present invention clearer, the technical solutions in the embodiments will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. The following embodiments are used to illustrate the present invention, but are not intended to limit the scope of the present invention.

[0048] In the description of this invention, it should be noted that the terms "upper", "lower", "inner", "outer", etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They are only for the convenience of describing this invention and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on this invention.

[0049] In the description of this invention, it should be noted that, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the term "connection" should be interpreted broadly. For example, it can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; it can be a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this invention based on the specific circumstances.

[0050] like Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, an embodiment of the present invention provides a washing and shoe washing machine, including a washing unit 1 and a shoe washing unit 2. The drain outlet of the washing unit 1 is connected to the shoe washing unit 2 and the external drain pipe 3 of the washing and shoe washing machine through a switching valve assembly.

[0051] In this embodiment, the washing unit 1 is a drum-type washing unit, and the shoe washing unit 2 is located below the washing unit 1, featuring a drawer-type structure that allows for easy removal and insertion into the washing machine's outer casing. The user can remove the shoe washing unit 2 from the outer casing of the washing machine, place the shoes to be washed into it, and then reinsert the shoe washing unit 2 into the casing to begin washing the shoes. Soft clothing is placed in the washing unit 1 above for washing, achieving separate washing of clothing and shoes. This avoids wear and tear on clothing caused by washing them together, and also prevents hygiene issues when clothing and shoes share a single washing chamber.

[0052] The switching valve assembly includes a switching unit, which controls the drain outlet of the washing unit 1 to connect to the shoe washing unit 2 and the external drain pipe 3.

[0053] In the above solution, by setting a switching valve assembly, the drain outlet of the washing unit 1 is connected to both the shoe washing unit 2 and the external drain pipe 3. The connection direction of the drain outlet of the washing unit 1 can be controlled by the switching valve assembly, thus achieving control over the drainage direction of the washing unit 1. When the user has both washing and shoe washing needs, the drainage from the washing unit 1 can be discharged into the shoe washing unit 2 for reuse. In particular, the washing water after the washing cycle of the washing unit 1 contains a significant amount of detergent residue, so no additional detergent needs to be added to the shoe washing unit 2. Furthermore, if the washing unit 1 heats the washing water, the shoe washing unit 2 can utilize the warm water from the washing unit 1, achieving a better washing effect without separately heating the water in the shoe washing unit 2, thereby achieving energy and water conservation.

[0054] The drain outlet of washing unit 1 is directly connected to the switching valve assembly. The control of the drainage direction is achieved through the switching unit in the switching valve assembly. There is no need to run two different pipes from the water tank of washing unit 1, one of which is connected to shoe washing unit 2 and the other is connected to the external drain pipe 3. This simplifies the water circuit structure inside the washing and shoe washing machine and avoids the situation where a complex water circuit structure occupies too much space.

[0055] In a further embodiment, the switching valve assembly has an inlet 103, a first outlet 101, and a second outlet 102. The inlet 103 is connected to the drain outlet of the washing unit 1, the first outlet 101 is connected to the shoe washing unit 2, and the second outlet 102 is connected to the external drainage pipe 3.

[0056] The switching unit includes a first control valve 111 that can open / close the first outlet 101 and a second control valve 112 that can open / close the second outlet 102. At most one of the first control valve 111 and the second control valve 112 may be in the open state.

[0057] In this embodiment, the first control valve 111 and the second control valve 112 can be electromagnetic drain valves, and their on / off states are controlled independently. When the first control valve 111 is energized, it opens the first outlet 101; when de-energized, it automatically resets, thereby closing the first outlet 101. Similarly, when the second control valve 112 is energized, it opens the second outlet 102; when de-energized, it automatically resets, thereby closing the second outlet 102.

[0058] Specifically, the drain outlet of the washing unit 1 is connected to the inlet 103 via the washing drain pipe 10. When the washing unit 1 is washing or rinsing, the first control valve 111 closes the first outlet 101, and the second control valve 112 closes the second outlet 102, so that the washing / rinsing water is retained in the water-holding chamber of the washing unit 1. When the washing unit 1 needs to drain, either the first control valve 111 or the second control valve 112 opens, allowing the switching valve assembly to drain water from either the first outlet 101 or the second outlet 102, and the washing / rinsing water in the washing unit 1 can then be discharged from the washing unit 1 via the washing drain pipe 10.

[0059] The shoe washing unit 2 in this embodiment includes a receiving chamber for placing shoes, a spray system installed in the receiving chamber, and a water storage chamber for supplying water to the spray system. When the shoe washing unit 2 is working, water in the water storage chamber is sprayed out from the spray system to spray and clean the shoes in the receiving chamber. The first outlet 101 of the switching valve assembly is connected to the water storage chamber of the shoe washing unit 2 through a pipeline. When the first control valve 111 opens the first outlet 101, the washing unit 1 drains water into the water storage chamber of the shoe washing unit 2, so that the shoe washing unit 2 uses the water discharged from the washing unit 1 to spray and clean the shoes.

[0060] In this embodiment, the shoe washing unit 2 can also receive water directly from outside the integrated laundry and shoe washing machine. Specifically, the water storage chamber of the shoe washing unit 2 is also connected to a water inlet pipe, and the water inlet end of the water inlet pipe is equipped with a water inlet valve that is connected to an external water source. When the water inlet valve is opened, the shoe washing unit 2 receives clean water directly from outside the integrated laundry and shoe washing machine.

[0061] The shoe washing unit 2 also includes a drain outlet. The drain outlet of the shoe washing unit 2 can be directly connected to the outside of the washing and shoe washing machine through a pipe, or it can be connected to the external drain pipe 3 to realize the drainage of the shoe washing unit 2 to the outside.

[0062] The second outlet 102 of the switching valve assembly is connected to the external drainage pipe 3. When the second control valve 112 opens the second outlet 102, the washing unit 1 drains water into the external drainage pipe 3. A drain pump 4 is also installed on the external drainage pipe 3. More specifically, the drain inlet 41 of the drain pump 4 is connected to the second outlet 102 of the switching valve assembly via a pipe, and the drain outlet 42 of the drain pump 4 is connected to the outside of the washing and shoe washing machine via the external drainage pipe. After the second control valve 112 is opened, the drain pump 4 starts, causing the washing unit 1 to drain water into the external washing and shoe washing machine. The outlet end of the pipe connected to the drain port of the shoe washing unit 2 can be connected to the pipe between the drain inlet 41 and the second outlet 102, or it can be connected downstream of the drain pump 4, i.e., to the external drainage pipe. The drain port of the shoe washing unit 2 can also be connected to a pipe that extends directly from the washing and shoe washing machine, in which case the washing unit 1 and the shoe washing unit 2 each have their own external drainage outlet.

[0063] In the above scheme, the switching valve assembly controls the opening and closing states of the first outlet 101 and the second outlet 102 separately through the first control valve 111 and the second control valve 112, which has a simple structure and the control logic is easy to implement.

[0064] This embodiment also provides a control method for the washing and shoe washing machine, which controls the switching valve assembly to drain water from the washing unit 1 to the shoe washing unit 2, thereby achieving the reuse of washing / rinsing water from the washing unit 1 and thus achieving the purpose of energy saving and water saving.

[0065] Specifically, such as Figure 3 As shown, the control method includes the following steps:

[0066] S1. The washing unit completes the washing program, and the switching valve assembly connects the drain outlet of the washing unit with the shoe washing unit to drain water into the shoe washing unit.

[0067] S2. The shoe washing unit uses the washing water from the laundry unit for washing;

[0068] S3. The washing unit completes the rinsing process, and controls whether to drain water into the shoe washing unit based on whether the shoe washing unit has completed the washing process.

[0069] S4. The shoe washing unit uses the rinsing water from the washing unit and / or external water inlet for rinsing.

[0070] In the above solution, the washing and rinsing water of the washing unit 1 can be discharged into the shoe washing unit 2 for reuse. In particular, the warm water containing detergent discharged from the washing unit 1 can be used for the washing process of the shoe washing unit 2. Users do not need to add detergent to the shoe washing unit 2, nor does the shoe washing unit 2 need to run a heating program to achieve a good cleaning effect, thus achieving the purpose of energy saving and water saving.

[0071] In a further embodiment, in step S3, if the shoe washing unit completes the washing process, the switching valve assembly connects the drain outlet of the washing unit with the shoe washing unit to drain water into the shoe washing unit.

[0072] Preferably, step S4 includes: the shoe washing unit uses the rinsing water discharged from the washing unit to rinse the shoes; after rinsing is completed and the water is drained, the water inlet valve of the shoe washing unit is opened to use external water for the final rinse.

[0073] In the above scheme, after completing the rinsing process, the washing unit 1 obtains the operating status of the shoe washing unit 2 and controls whether to drain water into the shoe washing unit 2 based on the operating status of the shoe washing unit 2. The shoe washing unit 2 reuses the rinsing water from the washing unit 1 to complete the intermediate rinsing process, and then introduces clean water from the outside to perform a final rinsing of the shoes to complete the entire shoe washing process, ensuring the cleanliness of the shoes after washing.

[0074] In a further embodiment, in step S3, if the shoe washing unit has not completed the washing process, the following steps are performed:

[0075] S31. Obtain the remaining number of rinses N for the washing unit;

[0076] S32. If the remaining number of rinses N is greater than 0, the switching valve assembly connects the drain outlet of the washing unit to the external drain pipe, the washing unit drains water to the outside of the washing and shoe washing machine, and then water is introduced to execute the next rinsing program. After the rinsing program is completed, the system controls whether to drain water to the shoe washing unit again based on whether the shoe washing unit has completed the washing program.

[0077] If the remaining number of rinses N is equal to 0, the washing unit waits for the shoe washing unit to complete the washing program and drain the water before the switching valve assembly connects the drain outlet of the washing unit to the shoe washing unit.

[0078] Preferably, when the remaining number of rinses N equals 0, the washing unit extends the rinsing time until the shoe washing unit completes the washing program and drains the water. Then, the washing unit ends the rinsing program, and the switching valve assembly connects the drain outlet of the washing unit with the shoe washing unit to discharge the rinsing water into the shoe washing unit.

[0079] In the above scheme, for the case where the shoe washing unit 2 only performs one intermediate rinsing process, when the washing unit 1 completes the rinsing program but the shoe washing unit 2 has not completed the washing program, the washing unit 1 directly drains water and performs the subsequent rinsing program. Only when draining water after the last rinsing is completed does it wait for the shoe washing unit 2 to complete the washing program, thus avoiding unnecessary waiting time and shortening the running time of the washing unit 1.

[0080] In the case where the shoe washing unit 2 performs multiple intermediate rinsing processes, in step S3, each time the washing unit completes the rinsing program, it is determined whether the shoe washing unit has completed the washing program or the rinsing program.

[0081] If the shoe washing unit completes the washing or rinsing program, the switching valve assembly connects the drain outlet of the washing unit to the shoe washing unit, draining water into the shoe washing unit.

[0082] If the shoe washing unit has not completed the washing or rinsing cycle, proceed with the following steps:

[0083] S31', Obtain the remaining number of rinses N1 of the washing unit and the remaining number of intermediate rinses N2 of the shoe washing unit;

[0084] S32' If N1>N2-1, the switching valve assembly connects the drain outlet of the washing unit to the external drain pipe, the washing unit drains water to the outside of the washing and shoe washing machine, and then water is introduced to execute the next rinsing program. After the rinsing program is completed, the system controls whether to drain water to the shoe washing unit again based on whether the shoe washing unit has completed the washing or rinsing program.

[0085] Otherwise, the washing unit waits for the shoe washing unit to complete the washing program or the current rinsing program and drain the water before switching the valve assembly connects the drain outlet of the washing unit to the shoe washing unit.

[0086] like Figure 4 As shown, in this embodiment, step S1 specifically includes:

[0087] S11. After the washing unit completes the washing program, the first control valve opens to drain water into the shoe washing unit.

[0088] S12. When the water level L of the shoe washing unit reaches the set shoe washing water level L1, the first control valve closes and the second control valve opens to discharge the remaining washing water in the washing unit into the washing and shoe washing machine.

[0089] Alternatively, when the washing water in the washing unit is drained and the water level in the shoe washing unit has not reached the set shoe washing water level L1, the first control valve closes and the water inlet valve of the shoe washing unit opens to replenish water to the set shoe washing water level L1.

[0090] Specifically, in step S12, after the first control valve is closed and the second control valve is opened, the drain pump is turned on to drain water to the outside of the washing and shoe washing machine.

[0091] Similarly, in step S3, when the shoe washing unit completes the washing program, the first control valve opens to drain water into the shoe washing unit;

[0092] When the water level L in the shoe washing unit reaches the set rinsing water level L2, the first control valve closes and the second control valve opens, draining the remaining rinsing water from the washing unit into the shoe washing machine.

[0093] Alternatively, when the rinsing water in the washing unit is drained and the water level in the shoe washing unit has not reached the set rinsing water level L2, the first control valve closes and the water inlet valve of the shoe washing unit opens to replenish water to the set rinsing water level L2.

[0094] The washing machine and shoe washing machine of this embodiment has an on / off linkage washing mode. In the linkage washing mode, the washing machine and shoe washing machine executes steps S1 to S4. Otherwise, the shoe washing unit 2 is fed by water from the outside to operate independently.

[0095] like Figure 1 and Figure 5 As shown, the washing and shoe washing machine also includes a control panel 5, which has washing parameter setting keys 51, shoe washing parameter setting keys 52, linkage washing mode switch 53, and start / pause key 54.

[0096] Control panel 5 is a touch screen. After the washer and shoe washer combo is turned on, upon receiving a signal triggered by the washing parameter setting key 51, it enters the washing parameter setting mode and determines the operating parameters of washing unit 1 based on the user's operation on control panel 5. Upon receiving a signal triggered by the shoe washing parameter setting key 52, it enters the shoe washing parameter setting mode and determines the operating parameters of shoe washing unit 2 based on the user's operation on control panel 5.

[0097] The linked washing mode is off by default. After the washer-shoe washer-dryer is turned on, if the washer-shoe washer-dryer does not receive a signal from the linked washing mode switch 53 when the user sets the washing and shoe washing parameters and triggers the start / pause button 54, both washing unit 1 and shoe washing unit 2 will start operating independently from external water intake. If a signal from the linked washing mode switch 53 is received before the start / pause button 54 is triggered, the linked washing mode is on. After the start / pause button 54 is triggered, washing unit 1 will start to take in water for washing, and will drain water to shoe washing unit 2 after washing is complete.

[0098] If the user only sets one of the washing parameters or the shoe washing parameters when pressing the start / pause button 54, then only the washing unit 1 or the shoe washing unit 2 that the user set will start running. If the user accidentally triggers the linkage washing mode switch 53 before pressing the start / pause button 54, the washing machine and shoe washing machine can automatically turn off the linkage washing mode.

[0099] In a further embodiment, if the washing machine is running in the linkage washing mode and receives an instruction to turn off the linkage washing mode, during the subsequent drainage process of the washing unit 1, the switching valve assembly connects the drain outlet of the washing unit 1 with the external drainage pipe 3, and the shoe washing unit 2 directly receives water from the outside during the subsequent water intake process.

[0100] Specifically, after the user activates the integrated washing mode and starts the washer-shoe washer-dryer, the user can trigger the integrated washing mode switch 53 again at any time during the operation of the washer-shoe washer-dryer to issue a command to turn off the integrated washing mode. Upon receiving the signal that the integrated washing mode switch 53 has been triggered, when the washing unit 1 reaches the drainage stage, it directly opens the second control valve 112 to drain water. When the shoe washing unit 2 reaches the water inlet stage, it directly opens the water inlet valve of the shoe washing unit 2 to allow water to enter from the outside.

[0101] In a preferred embodiment, the shoe washing unit 2 has a preset maximum shoe washing water temperature T. max .like Figure 3 As shown, when the washing machine receives a start command, i.e., when the start / pause button 54 is triggered, it determines whether the linkage washing mode is turned on.

[0102] If the linked washing mode is activated, compare the set washing water temperature T of washing unit 1 with the maximum shoe washing water temperature T of shoe washing unit 2. max If T>T max The washer-shoe washer combo does not start and issues a message indicating that it cannot perform the combined washing operation; if T≤T max The washing and shoe washing machine performs steps S1 to S4.

[0103] Shoes are made of more complex materials than clothing. Some special materials are less resistant to high temperatures, and prolonged contact with hot water can cause surface damage. Excessively high water temperatures can also dissolve the adhesives used at the joints between different parts of the shoe, leading to further damage. In the above solution, the washer-shoe washer combo machine sets the washing water temperature T for washing unit 1 and the maximum shoe washing water temperature T for shoe washing unit 2 when the user activates the integrated washing mode. max Compare them, so that when T>T max It prompts users not to perform the linked washing, thus preventing the shoes in the shoe washing unit 2 from being damaged by overheated washing water, making it more intelligent.

[0104] When T>T max When the washing machine and shoe washer combo is activated, the user can adjust the set washing water temperature T to ensure that T ≤ T0. max To meet the requirements of the integrated washing mode. If the user does not adjust the set washing water temperature T, and the washing machine receives a start command again, the integrated washing machine will automatically shut down the integrated washing mode, and both washing unit 1 and washing unit 2 will start operating independently from external water inlet.

[0105] In another embodiment, after the user sets the washing and shoe washing parameters, the washing and shoe washing machine compares the set washing water temperature T with the highest shoe washing water temperature T. max When T>T maxIf a signal is received that the linkage washing mode switch 53 has been triggered, a prompt message will be sent to the user that linkage washing cannot be performed and the washing water temperature needs to be adjusted.

[0106] Alternatively, if the linkage washing mode switch 53 is triggered before the user completes the setting of the washing parameters, and when the user sets the washing water temperature T, if T>T... max In this situation, the washer-shoe washer combo will immediately send a notification to the user. The user can adjust the set washing water temperature T to ensure that T ≤ T0. max If the requirements are ignored, the washing machine will automatically turn off the linked washing mode.

[0107] The washing and shoe washing machine of this embodiment is equipped with a switching valve assembly, which connects the drain outlet of the washing unit 1 to the shoe washing unit 2 and the external drain pipe 3 respectively. The connection direction of the drain outlet of the washing unit 1 can be controlled by the switching valve assembly, thereby realizing the control of the drainage direction of the washing unit 1. The washing / rinsing water of the washing unit 1 can be discharged into the shoe washing unit 2 for reuse. In particular, the warm water containing detergent after washing clothes can be reused for washing shoes, thereby achieving the purpose of energy saving and water saving.

[0108] The all-in-one washer and shoe washer features a linked washing mode that allows the shoe washer unit 2 to reuse the washing water from the washer unit 1. The washer unit 1 can determine whether to wait before draining water from the shoe washer unit 2 based on the progress of the shoe washer unit 2 and its remaining rinse cycles. Only when drainage is required after the final rinse cycle will the washer unit 1 wait for the shoe washer unit 2 to complete the washing program; otherwise, it will drain water directly and begin the next rinse cycle, avoiding unnecessary waiting time and shortening the running time of the washer unit 1.

[0109] When the integrated washing mode is activated, the washing machine and shoe washer combo can also compare the set washing water temperature T with the highest shoe washing water temperature T of shoe washing unit 2. max , so that T>T max The system can prompt users that the washing cycle cannot be performed, thus reminding them to reset the washing water temperature T, or automatically turn off the washing cycle if the user does not reset it, preventing the washing water from being too hot and damaging the shoes in the shoe washing unit 2, thus making it more intelligent.

[0110] The above description is merely a preferred embodiment of the present invention and is not intended to limit the present invention in any way. Although the present invention has been disclosed above with reference to preferred embodiments, it is not intended to limit the present invention. Any person skilled in the art can make some modifications or alterations to the above-described technical content to create equivalent embodiments without departing from the scope of the present invention. Any simple modifications, equivalent changes, and alterations made to the above embodiments based on the technical essence of the present invention without departing from the scope of the present invention shall still fall within the scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. A control method for a washing and shoe washing machine, characterized in that, The washing and shoe washing machine includes a washing unit and a shoe washing unit. The drain outlet of the washing unit is connected to the external drain pipe of the shoe washing unit and the washing and shoe washing machine through a switching valve assembly. The control method includes the following steps: S1. The washing unit completes the washing program, and the switching valve assembly connects the drain outlet of the washing unit with the shoe washing unit to drain water into the shoe washing unit. S2. The shoe washing unit uses the washing water from the laundry unit for washing; S3. The washing unit completes the rinsing process, and controls whether to drain water into the shoe washing unit based on whether the shoe washing unit has completed the washing process. S4. The shoe washing unit uses the rinsing water from the washing unit and / or external water inlet for rinsing. When the shoe washing unit performs one intermediate rinse, in step S3, if the shoe washing unit has not completed the washing program, the following steps are executed: S31. Obtain the remaining number of rinses N for the washing unit; S32. If the remaining number of rinses N is greater than 0, the switching valve assembly connects the drain outlet of the washing unit to the external drain pipe, the washing unit drains water to the outside of the washing and shoe washing machine, and then water is introduced to execute the next rinsing program. After the rinsing program is completed, the system controls whether to drain water to the shoe washing unit again based on whether the shoe washing unit has completed the washing program. If the remaining number of rinses N equals 0, the washing unit waits for the shoe washing unit to complete the washing program and drain the water before switching the valve assembly connects the drain outlet of the washing unit to the shoe washing unit. When the shoe washing unit performs multiple intermediate rinsing processes, in step S3, each time the washing unit completes the rinsing program, it is determined whether the shoe washing unit has completed the washing or rinsing program. If the shoe washing unit has not completed the washing or rinsing program, the following steps are executed: S31', Obtain the remaining number of rinses N1 of the washing unit and the remaining number of intermediate rinses N2 of the shoe washing unit; S32' If N1>N2-1, the switching valve assembly connects the drain outlet of the washing unit to the external drain pipe, the washing unit drains water to the outside of the washing and shoe washing machine, and then water is introduced to execute the next rinsing program. After the rinsing program is completed, the system controls whether to drain water to the shoe washing unit again based on whether the shoe washing unit has completed the washing or rinsing program. Otherwise, the washing unit waits for the shoe washing unit to complete the washing program or the current rinsing program and drain the water before switching the valve assembly connects the drain outlet of the washing unit to the shoe washing unit.

2. The control method for the washing and shoe washing machine according to claim 1, characterized in that, In step S3, if the shoe washing unit completes the washing program, the switching valve assembly connects the drain outlet of the washing unit with the shoe washing unit to drain water into the shoe washing unit.

3. The control method for the washing and shoe washing machine according to claim 2, characterized in that, Step S4 includes: the shoe washing unit uses the rinsing water discharged from the washing unit to rinse the shoes. After rinsing and draining, the inlet valve of the shoe washing unit is opened to use external water for the final rinse.

4. The control method for the washing and shoe washing machine according to any one of claims 1-3, characterized in that, The switching valve assembly includes a first control valve that controls the connection between the drain outlet of the washing unit and the shoe washing unit, and a second control valve that controls the connection between the drain outlet of the washing unit and the external drainage pipe. Step S1 specifically includes: S11. After the washing unit completes the washing program, the first control valve opens to drain water into the shoe washing unit. S12. When the water level in the shoe washing unit reaches the set shoe washing water level, the first control valve closes and the second control valve opens to drain the remaining washing water from the washing unit into the shoe washing machine. Alternatively, when the washing water in the laundry unit is drained and the water level in the shoe washing unit has not reached the set shoe washing water level, the first control valve closes and the water inlet valve of the shoe washing unit opens to replenish water to the set shoe washing water level.

5. The control method for the washing and shoe washing machine according to claim 4, characterized in that, A drain pump is installed on the external drain pipe. In step S12, after the first control valve is closed and the second control valve is opened, the drain pump is turned on to drain water to the outside of the washing and shoe washing machine.

6. The control method for the washing and shoe washing machine according to any one of claims 1-3, characterized in that, The washing and shoe washing machine has an on / off linkage washing mode. In the linkage washing mode, the washing and shoe washing machine performs steps S1 to S4; otherwise, the shoe washing unit takes in water from the outside to operate independently.

7. The control method for the washing and shoe washing machine according to claim 6, characterized in that, During the operation of the combined washing and shoe washing machine in the linked washing mode, if an instruction to shut down the linked washing mode is received, the switching valve assembly connects the drain outlet of the washing unit to the external drain pipe during the subsequent drainage process of the washing unit, and the shoe washing unit directly receives water from the outside during the subsequent water intake process.

8. The control method for the washing and shoe washing machine according to claim 6, characterized in that, The shoe washing unit has a preset maximum shoe washing water temperature T. max When the washing machine and shoe washer combo receives a start command, it determines whether the linkage washing mode is turned on. If the linked washing mode is enabled, compare the set washing water temperature T of the washing unit with the highest shoe washing water temperature T of the shoe washing unit. max If T>T max The washer-shoe washer combo machine issues a warning message indicating that it cannot perform a combined washing cycle; if T≤T max The washing and shoe washing machine performs steps S1 to S4.

9. A washing and shoe washing machine in one, characterized in that, The control method for the washing and shoe washing machine as described in any one of claims 1-8 is executed.

10. The washing and shoe washing machine according to claim 9, characterized in that, The switching valve assembly includes a switching unit that controls the drain outlet of the washing unit to connect to the shoe washing unit and the external drain pipe.

11. The washing and shoe washing machine according to claim 10, characterized in that, The switching valve assembly has a water inlet, a first water outlet, and a second water outlet. The water inlet is connected to the drain outlet of the washing unit, the first water outlet is connected to the shoe washing unit, and the second water outlet is connected to the external drainage pipe. The switching unit includes a first control valve that can open / close a first outlet and a second control valve that can open / close a second outlet; at most one of the first control valve and the second control valve is in the open state.

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