A washing machine

Abstract

The present invention creatively provides a washing machine, which includes a clothes processing tub and a drainage device, wherein the drainage device is arranged below the drainage outlet of the clothes processing tub and includes a sealing member and a transmission mechanism: the sealing member includes a sealing part; the transmission mechanism includes a push rod, a first elastic member and a transmission member; the transmission member can be controlled to move, and when the transmission member moves to a first working position, the sealing member opens the drainage outlet, and the clothes processing tub can drain water; when the transmission member moves to a second working position, the sealing member closes the drainage outlet, and water can be stored in the clothes processing tub; when the transmission member is controlled to continue to move upward, the transmission member moves relative to the push rod, and the first elastic member is continuously compressed, which has a buffering effect on the transmission member; the structure is simple, which simplifies the control process of opening and sealing the drainage outlet and improves the sealing effect; the drainage outlet opens quickly, drains water in time and is tightly sealed, thereby solving the problems of complex structure of the drainage device and loose sealing of the drainage outlet.

Description

Technical Field

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

[0002] With the development of the economy and society, washing machines have gradually become an indispensable household appliance in people's daily lives. Single-tub washing machines have gradually attracted widespread attention. When clothes need to be washed, the drain outlet of the washing tub is sealed by a drainage device. At this time, the washing tub is filled with water and rotates to wash the clothes. When drainage is required, the drainage device opens the drain outlet of the washing tub and the water in the washing tub is discharged. However, due to the lack of a buffer component, the drive mechanism is prone to malfunction during overtravel. In addition, when the drain outlet is closed, the movement position of the seal is inaccurate, resulting in poor sealing effect. Summary of the Invention

[0003] In view of this, the present invention provides a washing machine to solve the problems of the driving mechanism of the drainage device of the single-tub structure washing machine in the prior art being prone to failure and having poor sealing effect.

[0004] The present invention provides a washing machine, comprising a laundry processing tub and a drainage device, wherein a drainage port is formed at the bottom of the laundry processing tub, and the drainage device is arranged below the drainage port, and the drainage device comprises:

[0005] a sealing member having a sealing portion for cooperating with the opening and closing of the drain outlet;

[0006] The transmission mechanism includes a push rod, a first elastic member, and a transmission member; one end of the push rod is connected to the sealing portion, the other end of the push rod is in transmission connection with the transmission member, and the first elastic member is connected between the push rod and the transmission member;

[0007] A driving mechanism can drive the transmission member to move in a direction of closing the drain outlet, so that the first elastic member drives the push rod to move upward;

[0008] The transmission member has a first working position and a second working position. When the transmission member moves to the first working position, the sealing portion and the drain outlet are in a separated state to open the drain outlet; when the transmission member moves to the second working position, the sealing portion and the drain outlet are in a contact state to close the drain outlet.

[0009] The first elastic member is designed so that when the transmission member continues to move from the second working position toward closing the drain outlet, the transmission member moves relative to the push rod to compress the first elastic member.

[0010] Further optionally, the transmission mechanism further comprises a connecting member, the connecting member being arranged at the bottom of the push rod and connected to the push rod, and the first elastic member being arranged between the connecting member and the transmission member; the connecting member and the transmission member being in direct and / or indirect sliding cooperation;

[0011] When the transmission member continues to move from the second working position toward closing the drain outlet, the transmission member cooperates with the connecting member, and the transmission member slides relative to the connecting member, thereby compressing the first elastic member.

[0012] Further optionally, the transmission mechanism further includes a latch; the connecting member and the top rod are both formed with a latch hole, and the latch passes through the latch hole of the connecting member and the latch hole of the top rod in sequence to achieve a fixed connection between the connecting member and the bottom of the top rod;

[0013] The transmission member is formed with a slide groove, the end of the latch is embedded in the slide groove, and the transmission member and the connecting member are indirectly slidably engaged through the latch and the slide groove;

[0014] When the transmission member moves relative to the connecting member, the latch slides in the sliding groove.

[0015] Further optionally, the connecting member is formed with a guide portion; a transmission member limiting portion A is formed on the top of the transmission member, and the transmission member limiting portion A is formed with a guide groove, and the guide portion and the first elastic member are embedded in the guide groove;

[0016] The transmission member and the connecting member are directly slidably matched via the guide portion and the guide groove;

[0017] When the transmission member moves relative to the connecting member, the guide portion slides in the guide groove.

[0018] Further optionally, the washing machine further comprises a water collecting member, which is arranged below the drain outlet; a mounting position is formed at the bottom of the water collecting member, and the drainage device is arranged at the mounting position; the drainage device further comprises a first bracket and a second bracket, and the sealing member, the first bracket and the second bracket are arranged in sequence from top to bottom; a first bracket limiting portion is formed at the top of the first bracket, and a sliding hole is formed in the first bracket limiting portion, and the push rod passes through the sliding hole and cooperates with the sliding hole through a bearing; a first fixing portion is formed at the bottom of the first bracket limiting portion, and the first fixing portion is fixed to the bottom wall of the mounting position;

[0019] A second fixing portion is formed on the top of the second bracket, and the second fixing portion is fixed to the bottom of the first bracket; a second bracket limiting portion A is formed on the side of the second bracket, and the second bracket limiting portion A forms a limiting groove, and the bottom of the transmission member is embedded in the limiting groove;

[0020] When the driving mechanism drives the transmission member to move, the bottom of the transmission member slides in the limiting groove.

[0021] Further optionally, the driving mechanism includes a rotating member and a second elastic member; the rotating member is provided at the bottom of the transmission member, and the second elastic member is connected between the second fixing portion and the transmission member;

[0022] The rotating member can drive the transmission member to move in the direction of closing the drain outlet, the second elastic member is compressed to store energy, and at the same time the first elastic member drives the push rod to move upward; when the second elastic member releases energy, the second elastic member drives the transmission member to move in the direction of opening the drain outlet, and the first elastic member drives the push rod to move downward.

[0023] Further optionally, a second bracket limiting portion B is formed on the top of the second bracket, and a transmission member limiting portion B is also formed on the top of the transmission member; one end of the second elastic member is sleeved on the outside of the second bracket limiting portion B, and the other end of the second elastic member is embedded between the transmission member limiting portion A and the transmission member limiting portion B;

[0024] The second bracket limiting portion B is formed with an installation cavity, which is communicated with the sliding hole. The top of the push rod passes through the sliding hole from the installation cavity.

[0025] Further optionally, the outer circumference of the rotating member has a distal end and a proximal end, and the distance between the distal end and the rotation center of the rotating member is greater than the distance between the proximal end and the rotation center of the rotating member;

[0026] The rotating member is controlled to rotate, and when the remote end gradually contacts the transmission member, the transmission member moves in the direction of closing the drain outlet, and the second elastic member stores energy; when the proximal end gradually contacts the transmission member, the second elastic member releases energy, and the transmission member moves in the direction of opening the drain outlet.

[0027] Further optionally, the rotating member is a cam.

[0028] Further optionally, the drainage device further comprises a blocking member provided at the bottom of the laundry treatment tub; the sealing member is formed with a positioning portion cooperating with the blocking member, and the positioning portion is located on a side of the sealing portion;

[0029] The transmission member further has a third working position, and the third working position is located between the first working position and the second working position;

[0030] When the transmission member moves to the third working position, the laundry processing tub is controlled to rotate and the positioning portion is brought into contact with the blocking member, so that the sealing portion is located below the drain outlet.

[0031] Further optionally, a first limit switch and / or a second limit switch is provided in the mounting cavity; a first trigger position and a second trigger position are formed on a side portion of the push rod, which are opposite to each other; a third limit switch is provided on the second bracket, and a third trigger position is formed on an outer peripheral side of the rotating member; and the first limit switch, the second limit switch, and the third limit switch are all electrically connected to a controller of the washing machine;

[0032] When the washing machine switches between the washing stage and the dehydration stage, the drainage device has the following working relationship:

[0033] When the transmission member moves to the first working position, the first limit switch and the second limit switch are both in a closed state, the third limit switch is in an open state, and the drain outlet is opened;

[0034] When the washing machine is in a washing stage, the rotating member is controlled to rotate and drive the transmission member to move toward the third working position, the first elastic member drives the push rod and the sealing portion to move upward, and when the first trigger position contacts the first limit switch and the first limit switch is disconnected, the rotating member is controlled to stop rotating, the clothes processing tub is controlled to rotate and the positioning portion contacts the blocking member, and the sealing portion is positioned below the drain outlet;

[0035] The rotating member is controlled to continue rotating and drive the transmission member to move toward the second working position, and the first elastic member drives the ejector rod and the sealing portion to continue moving upward. When the second trigger position contacts the second limit switch and disconnects the second limit switch, the sealing portion closes the drain port, and the rotating member is controlled to stop rotating.

[0036] When the washing machine enters the dehydration stage from the washing stage, the rotating member is controlled to continue rotating, the third limit switch is in a closed state, the second elastic member drives the transmission member to move toward the first working position, the push rod and the sealing portion move downward, the drain outlet is opened, the second trigger position is separated from the second limit switch and closes the second limit switch, the first trigger position is separated from the first limit switch and closes the first limit switch, and the third trigger position contacts the third limit switch and opens the third limit switch, at which time the rotating member is controlled to stop rotating.

[0037] Further optionally, the top of the push rod forms a skirt; the top of the sealing member forms the sealing portion, and the bottom of the sealing member forms a third fixing portion; the third fixing portion is provided between the bottom wall of the mounting position and the first fixing portion;

[0038] The sealing member is formed with a corrugated section between the sealing portion and the third fixing portion; the sealing portion and the corrugated section enclose a sealing cavity, which is communicated with the sliding hole; the top of the ejector rod sequentially extends upward into the sealing cavity through the bottom of the sealing cavity and is connected to the sealing portion through the skirt;

[0039] When the sealing portion moves up and down along with the push rod, the corrugated section expands or contracts.

[0040] Compared with the prior art, the beneficial effects of the present invention are mainly:

[0041] (1) When the transmission member moves to the first working position, the sealing portion is separated from the drain port and the drain port is opened, and the water in the clothes treatment tub can enter the water collecting member through the drain port; when the transmission member moves to the second working position, the sealing portion contacts the drain port and the drain port is closed, and water can be stored in the clothes treatment tub; the structure of the drainage device is simplified, and the control process of opening and sealing the drain port is optimized; the drain port opens quickly and drains water in time, and the installation is convenient and quick; no water is stored between the clothes treatment tub and the water collecting member during the washing stage, avoiding the problem of dirt and grime accumulating on the outer wall and outer bottom of the clothes treatment tub, and reducing the amount of water used for washing; the problem of the existing drainage device having a complex structure and a loose seal of the drain port is solved;

[0042] (2) When the transmission member continues to move from the second working position toward the direction of closing the drain outlet, the transmission member moves relative to the push rod, acting as a buffer for the drive mechanism and the transmission member, thereby preventing the drive mechanism from still driving the transmission member to move when the push rod moves to the highest position, thereby causing a malfunction of the drive mechanism; under the action of the first elastic member, the push rod squeezes the sealing portion, thereby increasing the contact surface between the sealing portion and the drain outlet, thereby improving the sealing effect of the sealing portion on the drain outlet;

[0043] (3) The push rod is connected to the connecting piece by a pin, which cooperates with the slide groove, and the guide part cooperates with the guide groove to realize the sliding cooperation between the transmission part and the connecting piece. The bottom of the transmission part is embedded in the limit groove, so that the transmission part moves stably relative to the connecting piece, thereby improving the transmission efficiency, ensuring the continuous movement of the push rod and applying effective pressure to the sealing part, and improving the tightness of the sealing part in closing the drain outlet; the push rod cooperates with the slide hole through the bearing to reduce the friction between the push rod and the slide hole;

[0044] (4) When the transmission member moves to the third working position, the laundry treatment tub is controlled to rotate and the positioning portion contacts the blocking member. The sealing portion is then located below the drain outlet, accurately positioned, solving the problems of inaccurate positioning of existing drain devices and positioning errors caused by wear of the positioning device, reducing the motor required for the positioning device and lowering the cost of the washing machine; and realizing the integration of opening, positioning and sealing of the drain outlet;

[0045] (5) A skirt is formed on the top of the push rod, which increases the contact area between the push rod and the sealing part, improves the positioning accuracy and the reliability of the seal; multiple limit switches are provided to control the movement of the rotating parts, with a high degree of automation, which optimizes the washing process and the dehydration process of the washing machine. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0046] To more clearly illustrate the embodiments of the present invention or the technical solutions in the prior art, the following briefly introduces the drawings required for the embodiments or the description of the prior art. Obviously, the drawings described below are merely exemplary, and those skilled in the art can, without inventive effort, derive other implementation drawings based on the provided drawings.

[0047] The structures, proportions, sizes, etc. illustrated in this specification are intended only to complement the contents disclosed herein and to facilitate understanding and reading by persons familiar with the art. They are not intended to limit the conditions under which the present invention may be implemented and therefore have no substantive technical significance. Any structural modifications, changes in proportions, or adjustments in sizes, without affecting the efficacy and objectives of the present invention, shall still fall within the scope of the technical contents disclosed herein.

[0048] Figure 1a and Figure 1b This is a schematic structural diagram of an embodiment of the washing machine provided by the present invention when it is in the drainage stage;

[0049] Figure 1c for Figure 1b Enlarged view of point D in the middle;

[0050] Figure 2a This is a schematic structural diagram of an embodiment of the washing machine provided by the present invention when it is in the positioning stage;

[0051] Figure 2b for Figure 2a Enlarged view of point E in the middle;

[0052] Figure 3a This is a schematic structural diagram of an embodiment of the washing machine provided by the present invention when it is in the washing stage;

[0053] Figure 3b for Figure 3a Enlarged view of point F in the middle;

[0054] Figure 4 A schematic diagram of a partially exploded embodiment of the drainage device provided by the present invention;

[0055] Figure 5 A schematic structural diagram of an embodiment of the cooperation between the positioning portion and the blocking member provided by the present invention;

[0056] Figure 6This is a schematic structural diagram of an embodiment of the rotating member provided by the present invention when rotating;

[0057] In the picture:

[0058] 11-Clothes processing barrel; 111-Drain outlet; 112-Blocking member; 12-Water collecting member; 121-Installation position;

[0059] 2-Drainage device; 21-Sealing member; 211-Sealing portion; 212-Positioning portion; 213-Corrugated section; 214-Third fixing portion; 22-Transmission mechanism; 221-Push rod; 2211-Skirt; 2212-First trigger position; 2213-Second trigger position; 222-Connecting member; 2221-Guiding portion; 223-First elastic member; 224-Transmission member; 2241-Sliding groove; 2242-Transmission member limiting portion A; 2243-Guiding groove; 2244-Transmission member limiting portion B; 225-Latch; 23-First bracket; 231-First bracket limiting portion; 232-Sliding hole; 233-First fixing portion; 24-Second bracket; 241-Second fixing portion; 242-Second bracket limiting portion A; 243-Second bracket limiting portion B; 244-Mounting cavity; 25-Drive mechanism; 251 - second elastic member; 252 - rotating member; 2521 - remote end; 2522 - near end; 2523 - third trigger position; 261 - first limit switch; 262 - second limit switch; 263 - third limit switch. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0060] The following describes the implementation of the present invention using specific embodiments. Those skilled in the art will readily understand the other advantages and benefits of the present invention from the disclosure herein. Obviously, the embodiments described are only a portion of the present invention, not all of it. All other embodiments derived by persons of ordinary skill in the art based on the embodiments of the present invention without inventive effort are intended to fall within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0061] The terms used in the embodiments of the present invention are for the purpose of describing specific embodiments only and are not intended to limit the present invention. The singular forms "a," "the," and "the" used in the embodiments of the present invention and the appended claims are also intended to include plural forms, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. "A plurality" generally includes at least two, but does not exclude the inclusion of at least one.

[0062] It should be understood that the term "and / or" as used herein is merely a description of the relationship between associated objects, indicating that three possible relationships exist. For example, "A and / or B" can represent: A exists alone, A and B exist simultaneously, or B exists alone. Furthermore, the character " / " in this document generally indicates that the associated objects are in an "or" relationship.

[0063] It should also be noted that the terms "include," "comprises," or any other variations thereof are intended to encompass non-exclusive inclusion, such that a product or system comprising a series of elements includes not only those elements but also other elements not explicitly listed, or elements inherent to such product or system. In the absence of further limitations, an element defined by the phrase "comprises a..." does not exclude the presence of other identical elements in the product or system comprising the element.

[0064] In an existing single-tub washing machine, when washing clothes, the drainage device closes the drainage port of the clothes processing tub, and the clothes processing tub rotates to wash the clothes; when draining, the drainage device opens the drainage port of the clothes processing tub, and the clothes processing tub is drained. However, the rotation of the clothes processing tub makes the position of the drainage port of the clothes processing tub uncertain, and a locking mechanism is required to lock the clothes processing tub to a certain position to ensure that the drainage port is always opened or closed in the same position. This makes the structure of the drainage device complicated, the control process cumbersome, the driving mechanism prone to malfunction, and the sealing effect of the sealing member on the drainage port is poor.

[0065] The present invention creatively provides a washing machine, which includes a clothes processing tub and a drainage device, which is arranged below the drainage outlet of the clothes processing tub and includes a sealing member, a transmission mechanism and a driving mechanism: the sealing member includes a sealing part; the transmission mechanism includes a push rod, a first elastic member and a transmission member; the driving mechanism can drive the transmission member to move in the direction of closing or opening the drainage outlet, and when the transmission member moves to the first working position, the sealing member opens the drainage outlet, and water in the clothes processing tub can enter the water collecting member through the drainage outlet; when the transmission member is controlled to move to the second working position, the sealing member closes the drainage outlet, and water can be stored in the clothes processing tub; when the transmission member is controlled to continue to move in the direction of closing the drainage outlet, the transmission member moves relative to the push rod to compress the first elastic member; the structure is simple, and the control process of opening and sealing the drainage outlet is optimized; the drainage outlet opens quickly, the drainage is timely and the seal is tight, and the installation is convenient and quick; the transmission member moves relative to the push rod to buffer the driving mechanism, thereby avoiding malfunction of the driving mechanism.

[0066] <Overall structure of drainage system>

[0067] like Figure 1a As shown, the present invention provides a washing machine, which includes a laundry processing tub 11, a water collecting member 12 and a drainage device 2. The bottom of the laundry processing tub 11 is formed with a drainage port 111, the water collecting member 12 is arranged below the drainage port 111, and the drainage device 2 is arranged on the water collecting member 12 and includes:

[0068] The sealing member 21 has a sealing portion 211 formed on its top. The sealing portion 211 can cooperate with the drain outlet 111 to open or close the drain outlet 111. The structure of the sealing portion 211 is compatible with the structure of the drain outlet 111, ensuring that the sealing portion 211 can effectively seal the drain outlet 111.

[0069] The transmission mechanism 22 includes a push rod 221, a first elastic member 223, and a transmission member 224. One end of the push rod 221 is connected to the sealing portion 211, and the other end of the push rod 221 is in transmission connection with the transmission member 224. The first elastic member 223 is connected between the push rod 221 and the transmission member 224. Specifically, along the axial direction of the laundry treatment tub 11, the sealing portion 211, the push rod 221, the first elastic member 223, and the transmission member 224 are connected in sequence. Preferably, the first elastic member 223 is a spring.

[0070] The driving mechanism can drive the transmission member 224 to move in a direction of closing the drain outlet 111, causing the first elastic member 223 to drive the push rod 221 and the sealing portion 211 to move upward; or the driving mechanism can drive the transmission member 224 to move in a direction of opening the drain outlet 111, causing the first elastic member 223 to drive the push rod 221 and the sealing portion 211 to move downward;

[0071] The transmission member 224 has a first working position and a second working position in the direction of movement in which it opens and closes the drain outlet 111;

[0072] like Figure 1b and Figure 1c As shown, when the transmission member 224 moves to the first working position, the sealing portion 211 and the drain port 111 are in a separated state with the drain port 111 opened, and the water in the laundry treatment tub 11 can enter the water collecting member 12 through the drain port 111, and the washing machine is in the drainage stage;

[0073] like Figure 3a and Figure 3b As shown, when the transmission member 224 moves toward the second working position, the sealing portion 211 and the drain outlet 111 gradually approach each other. When the transmission member 224 moves to the second working position, the sealing portion 211 and the drain outlet 111 are in contact with each other to close the drain outlet 111. Water can be stored in the laundry treatment tub 11. The sealing portion 211 is in the sealing state A, and the washing machine is in the washing stage.

[0074] When the transmission member 224 continues to move toward closing the drain outlet 111, the transmission member 224 moves relative to the push rod 221, the first elastic member 223 is compressed, and the push rod 221 is driven to press the sealing portion 211. The sealing portion 211 continues to contact the drain outlet 111 and deforms. The sealing portion 211 is in the sealing state B, and the washing machine is in the washing stage.

[0075] The contact area between the sealing portion 211 and the drain outlet 111 when the sealing portion 211 is in the sealing state A is greater than the contact area between the sealing portion 211 and the drain outlet 111 when the sealing portion 211 is in the sealing state B.

[0076] Specifically, the water collecting member 12 is a water collecting pan and is externally connected to a drain pipe. When the washing machine is in the washing stage, there is no water in the water collecting member 12; when the washing machine is in the dehydration stage, the clothes processing tub 11 can drain water into the water collecting member 12 and out of the washing machine through the drain pipe.

[0077] In summary, when the transmission member moves to the first working position, the sealing portion opens the drain outlet, and the clothes treatment tub can drain water; when the transmission member moves to the second working position, the sealing portion closes the drain outlet, and the sealing portion is in a sealed state A, and water can be stored in the clothes treatment tub; when the transmission member continues to move from the second working position in the direction of closing the drain outlet, under the action of the first elastic member, the push rod squeezes the sealing portion, thereby increasing the contact area between the sealing portion and the drain outlet, and the sealing portion is in a sealed state B. This simplifies the structure of the drainage device, optimizes the control process of opening and sealing the drain outlet, and improves the sealing effect; the drain outlet opens quickly, drains water in a timely manner, and seals tightly, and is easy and quick to install; and solves the problems of complex structure and loose sealing of the drain outlet in existing drainage devices; during the washing stage, no water is stored between the clothes treatment tub and the water collecting member, thereby avoiding the problem of dirt and grime accumulating on the outer wall and outer side of the bottom of the clothes treatment tub, and reducing the amount of water used for washing;

[0078] The transmission member moves relative to the push rod, which acts as a buffer for the drive mechanism and the transmission member, preventing the drive mechanism from still driving the transmission member to move when the push rod moves to the highest position, causing the drive mechanism to malfunction.

[0079] <Connectors and Pins>

[0080] like Figure 2b 、 Figure 3b and Figure 4 As shown, to address the problem of unstable sliding of the transmission member 224 relative to the top rod 221, this embodiment proposes that the transmission mechanism 22 further includes a connecting member 222, which is disposed at the bottom of the top rod 221 and is detachably connected to the top rod 221, and a first elastic member 223 is provided between the connecting member 222 and the transmission member 224; the connecting member 222 and the transmission member 224 are directly and / or indirectly slidably engaged;

[0081] When the transmission member 224 continues to move from the second working position toward the direction of closing the drain outlet 111, the transmission member 224 cooperates with the connecting member 222, and the transmission member 224 slides relative to the connecting member 222, thereby compressing the first elastic member 223, thereby improving the stability of the movement of the transmission member 224 and the push rod 221, and acting as a buffer for the driving mechanism and the transmission member 224;

[0082] Specifically, the transmission mechanism 22 also includes a latch 225; the top of the connecting member 222 is formed with a shaft portion, the shaft portion is formed with a shaft hole, the top rod 221 is sleeved in the shaft hole, the connecting member 222 and the top rod 221 are both formed with latch holes, the latch 225 passes through the latch hole of the connecting member 222 and the latch hole of the top rod 221 in sequence, to achieve a fixed connection between the connecting member 222 and the bottom of the top rod 221; the transmission member 224 is formed with a slide groove 2241, the end of the latch 225 is embedded in the slide groove 2241, and the transmission member 224 and the connecting member 222 achieve indirect sliding cooperation through the latch 225 and the slide groove 2241; when the transmission member 224 moves relative to the connecting member 222, the latch 225 slides in the slide groove 2241.

[0083] Furthermore, a guide portion 2221 is formed at the bottom of the connecting member 222; a transmission member limiting portion A 2242 is formed at the top of the transmission member 224, and a guide groove 2243 is formed in the transmission member limiting portion A 2242. The guide portion 2221 and the first elastic member 223 are embedded in the guide groove 2243, and the first elastic member 223 is located at the bottom of the connecting member 222. The transmission member 224 and the connecting member 222 are directly slidably engaged with each other through the guide portion 2221 and the guide groove 2243.

[0084] When the transmission member 224 moves relative to the connecting member 222, the guide portion 2221 slides in the guide groove 2243, thereby deforming the first elastic member 223. This improves the transmission efficiency, ensures that the ejector rod 221 moves continuously, and applies effective pressure to the sealing portion 211.

[0085] In summary, the latch 225 cooperates with the slide groove 2241 to achieve a primary sliding fit, and the guide portion 2221 cooperates with the guide groove 2243 to achieve a secondary sliding fit, thereby improving the stability of the relative movement of the traversable member 224 relative to the push rod 221; one or both of them can be set according to actual needs.

[0086] <Stopper and Positioning Portion>

[0087] like Figure 2a and Figure 2b As shown, to address the problem of inaccurate positioning of existing washing machine drainage devices, this embodiment proposes that the drainage device 2 further includes a blocking member 112 disposed at the bottom of the laundry tub 11; the sealing member 21 includes a positioning portion 212 that cooperates with the blocking member 112, and the positioning portion 212 is located on the side of the sealing portion 211; the positioning portion 212 cooperates with the blocking member 112 to promptly and accurately position the drain outlet 111; specifically, the blocking member 112 is an arc-shaped structure, disposed on the outer circumference of the drain outlet 111, and the structure of the positioning portion 212 is adapted to the structure of the blocking member 112;

[0088] The transmission member 224 also has a third working position in the direction of movement of opening and closing the drain outlet 111, and the third working position is located between the first working position and the second working position;

[0089] like Figure 5 As shown, when the transmission member 224 moves to the third working position, the laundry processing tub 11 is controlled to rotate so that the positioning portion 212 contacts the blocking member 112, and then the sealing portion 211 is located below the drain outlet 111, and the washing machine is in the positioning stage;

[0090] In summary, the positioning is accurate, which solves the problems of inaccurate positioning of the existing drainage device and positioning error caused by wear of the positioning device, reduces the motor required for the positioning device, and reduces the cost of the washing machine; and realizes the integration of opening, positioning and sealing of the drain port 111.

[0091] <First Bracket and Second Bracket>

[0092] In response to the problem of fixing the sealing member 21 and the transmission member 224, this embodiment proposes that a mounting position 121 is formed at the bottom of the water collecting member 12, and the top and bottom of the mounting position 121 are open; the drainage device 2 also includes a first bracket 23 and a second bracket 24, and the sealing member 21, the first bracket 23 and the second bracket 24 are arranged in sequence from top to bottom; a first bracket limiting portion 231 is formed at the top of the first bracket 23, and a sliding hole 232 is formed on the first bracket limiting portion 231, and the top rod 221 passes through the sliding hole 232 and cooperates with the sliding hole 232 through a bearing; a first fixing portion 233 is formed at the bottom of the first bracket limiting portion 231, and the first fixing portion 233 is fixed to the bottom wall of the mounting position 121; specifically, the first bracket limiting portion 231 extends toward the top of the water collecting member 12, and the sliding hole 232 The axis is parallel to the axial direction of the laundry processing tub 11; the cross-sectional area of ​​the first bracket limiting portion 231 gradually decreases upward along the axial direction of the laundry processing tub 11, and the first fixing portion 233 is arranged around the bottom of the first bracket limiting portion 231;

[0093] A second fixing portion 241 is formed on the top of the second bracket 24, and the second bracket 24 is fixed to the bottom of the first bracket 23 via the second fixing portion 241; a second bracket limiting portion A 242 is formed on the side of the second bracket 24, and the second bracket limiting portion A 242 forms a limiting groove, in which the bottom of the transmission member 224 is embedded; specifically, the first bracket 23 is a cast support member with a mounting hole formed therein, and the second bracket 24 is fixed to the first bracket 23 by screws, thereby improving the overall reliability of the drainage device 2 and the stability of the movement of the top rod 221; a limiting groove is formed on each side of the second bracket 24, and the two sides of the bottom of the transmission member 224 are respectively disposed in the corresponding limiting groove;

[0094] When the driving mechanism drives the transmission member 224 to move, the bottom of the transmission member 224 slides in the limiting groove, so that the transmission member 224 moves stably relative to the connecting member 222.

[0095] <Drive Mechanism>

[0096] To address the problem of a complex structure for driving the transmission member 224 to move up and down, this embodiment proposes a driving mechanism 25 that includes a second elastic member 251 for driving the transmission member 224, a rotating member 252, and a driving motor. The second elastic member 251 is connected between the second fixing portion 241 and the transmission member 224. The rotating member 252 is disposed at the bottom of the transmission member 224.

[0097] The rotating member 252 can drive the transmission member 224 to move in the direction of closing the drain outlet 111. The second elastic member 251 is compressed to store energy, and the first elastic member 223 drives the push rod 221 to move upward. When the second elastic member 251 releases energy, the second elastic member 251 drives the transmission member 224 to move in the direction of opening the drain outlet 111, and the first elastic member 223 drives the push rod 221 to move downward.

[0098] Specifically, the outer periphery of the rotating member 252 contacts the transmission member 224 and has a distal end 2521 and a proximal end 2522. The distal end 2521 is farther from the rotation center of the rotating member 252 than the proximal end 2522. The driving motor is drivingly connected to the rotating member 252. When the transmission member 224 and the ejector rod 221 slide relative to each other, the ejector rod 221 has an idle stroke, thereby protecting the driving motor.

[0099] The rotating member 252 is controlled to rotate. When the distal end 2521 gradually contacts the transmission member 224, the rotating member 252 drives the transmission member 224 to move in the direction of closing the drain outlet 111. The second elastic member 251 is compressed and stores energy. When the proximal end 2522 contacts the transmission member 224, the second elastic member 251 releases energy and drives the transmission member 224 to move in the direction of opening the drain outlet 111.

[0100] When the transmission member 224 continues to move from the second working position toward closing the drain outlet 111, the transmission member 224 moves relative to the push rod 221, and the first elastic member 223 stores energy. When the transmission member 224 moves toward opening the drain outlet 111, the transmission member 224 moves relative to the push rod 221, and the first elastic member 223 releases energy.

[0101] Preferably, the rotating member 252 is a cam;

[0102] The transmission member 224 is driven to move upward by the remote end 2521 of the cam, and is driven to move downward by the second elastic member 251. The structure is simple, the transmission efficiency is high and the transmission is stable, which solves the problem that the driving mechanism 25 of the transmission member 224 has a complex structure and causes unstable transmission.

[0103] like Figure 6 As shown, the rotating member 252 has states G1, G2, G3, G4, G5, and G6 in the rotation direction. When the rotating member 252 is in state G1, the remote end 2521 contacts the transmission member 224. When the rotating member 252 rotates clockwise toward state G3, the remote end 2521 gradually separates from the transmission member 224. When the rotating member 252 continues to rotate toward state G4, the near end 2522 gradually contacts the transmission member 224. During this process, the second elastic member 251 drives the first elastic member 223 and the push rod 221 to move downward.

[0104] When the rotating member 252 continues to rotate toward state G5, the proximal end 2522 gradually separates from the transmission member 224; when the rotating member 252 continues to rotate toward state G1, the distal end 2521 gradually contacts the transmission member 224; during this process, the rotating member drives the first elastic member 223 and the push rod 221 to move upward.

[0105] <Second Elastic Member Setting Position>

[0106] To address the problem of unstable deformation caused by unreliable fixation of the second elastic member 251, this embodiment proposes that a second bracket limiting portion B 243 is formed on the top of the second bracket 24; a transmission member limiting portion B 2244 is also formed on the top of the transmission member 224, which is coaxially arranged with the transmission member limiting portion A 2242. A slot is formed between the transmission member limiting portion A 2242 and the transmission member limiting portion B 2244. One end of the second elastic member 251 is sleeved on the outside of the second bracket limiting portion B 243, and the other end of the second elastic member 251 is embedded in the slot. The ejector rod 221 and the first elastic member 223 both pass through the second elastic member 251.

[0107] The second bracket limiting portion B 243 is formed with a mounting cavity 244 , which is in communication with the sliding hole 232 . The top of the ejector rod 221 passes through the sliding hole 232 through the mounting cavity 244 .

[0108] Preferably, the second elastic member 251 is a spring.

[0109] <Limit switch and trigger position>

[0110] To address the problems of the existing drain device 2, such as delayed opening of the drain outlet 111, inaccurate positioning, and loose sealing, this embodiment provides a first limit switch 261 and / or a second limit switch 262 within the mounting cavity 244; a first trigger position 2212 and a second trigger position 2213, which are oppositely disposed, are formed on the side of the push rod 221; a third limit switch 263 is provided on the second bracket 24, and a third trigger position 2523 is formed on the outer periphery of the rotating member 252; the first limit switch 261, the second limit switch 262, and the third limit switch 263 are all electrically connected to the controller of the washing machine;

[0111] When the washing machine switches between the washing stage and the dehydration stage, the drainage device 2 has the following working relationship:

[0112] like Figure 1b and Figure 1c As shown, when the transmission member 224 moves to the first working position, the first limit switch 261 and the second limit switch 262 are both in the closed state, the third limit switch 263 is in the open state, and the drain port 111 is opened;

[0113] like Figure 2a and Figure 2b As shown, when the washing machine is in the washing stage, the rotating member 252 is controlled to rotate and drives the transmission member 224 to move toward the third working position, the push rod 221 and the sealing portion 211 move upward, and when the first trigger position 2212 contacts the first limit switch 261 and the first limit switch 261 is disconnected, the rotating member 252 is controlled to stop rotating, and the laundry treatment tub 11 is controlled to rotate, so that the positioning portion 212 contacts the blocking member 112, and the sealing portion 211 is positioned below the drain outlet 111;

[0114] like Figure 3a and Figure 3b As shown, the rotating member 252 is controlled to continue rotating and drives the transmission member 224 to move toward the second working position. The first elastic member 223 drives the ejector rod 221 and the sealing portion 211 to continue moving upward. When the second trigger position 2213 contacts the second limit switch 262 and disconnects the second limit switch 262, the sealing portion 211 closes the drain port 111, and the rotating member 252 is controlled to stop rotating.

[0115] When the washing machine enters the dehydration stage from the washing stage, the rotating member 252 is controlled to continue rotating, the third limit switch 263 is in a closed state, the second elastic member 251 drives the transmission member 224 to move toward the first working position, the top rod 221 and the sealing part 211 move downward, the drain outlet 111 is opened, the second trigger position 2213 separates from the second limit switch 262 and closes the second limit switch 262, the first trigger position 2212 separates from the first limit switch 261 and closes the first limit switch 261, and the third trigger position 2523 contacts the third limit switch 263 and opens the third limit switch 263, at which time the rotating member 252 is controlled to stop rotating; control is achieved by multiple limit switches, the operating status of the washing machine can be identified, the degree of automation is high, and the washing process and dehydration process of the washing machine are optimized.

[0116] <Seal>

[0117] like Figure 4 As shown, to address the problem of loose sealing of the sealing portion 211, this embodiment proposes that a skirt 2211 is formed on the top of the ejector pin 221; the sealing portion 211 is formed on the top of the sealing member 21, and a third fixing portion 214 is formed on the bottom of the sealing member 21; the third fixing portion 214 is disposed between the bottom wall of the mounting position 121 and the first fixing portion 233;

[0118] The sealing member 21 is formed with a corrugated section 213 between the sealing portion 211 and the third fixing portion 214. The sealing portion 211 and the corrugated section 213 enclose a sealed cavity, which is communicated with the sliding hole 232. The top of the ejector rod 221 extends upward through the bottom of the sealed cavity and is connected to the sealing portion 211 via the skirt 2211. Specifically, the skirt 2211 and the ejector rod 221 are detachably connected or integrally formed. The structure of the skirt 2211 is adapted to the structure of the bottom of the sealing portion 211, for example, by welding them together. The contact area between the ejector rod 221 and the sealing portion 211 is increased, thereby improving the reliability of positioning and sealing. The transverse area of ​​the corrugated section 213 gradually decreases as it extends upward along the axial direction of the laundry treatment tub 11.

[0119] When the transmission member 224 is controlled to move, the sealing portion 211 moves up and down with the top rod 221, and then the corrugated section 213 stretches or contracts. The sealing cavity is closed on the side facing the clothing treatment barrel 11, and the corrugated section 213 of the sealing member 21 is deformable to seal the first bracket 23 and the water collecting member 12, thereby preventing water in the clothing treatment barrel 11 from entering the sealing cavity and causing motor failure, thereby ensuring reliable operation of the drainage device 2.

[0120] The drainage device 2 is fixedly installed with the water collecting part 12. Since the water collecting part 12 is stationary relative to the ground (without considering the influence of vibration), the drainage device 2 is stationary relative to the ground when the driving motor is not started. Assuming that the default state is the drainage state, the limit switch is squeezed and the output is 1, and the release output is 0. Assuming that the third limit switch 263 is a, the second limit switch 262 is b, and the first limit switch 261 is b, the limit switch state during the drainage stage is a1b1c1; when the washing machine enters the washing stage, the driving motor starts to rotate counterclockwise, driving the cam to rotate counterclockwise, and the cam rotates until it starts to rise. The driving motor drives the cam to continue to rotate counterclockwise. The cam is connected to the transmission member 224, and the cam pushes the transmission member 224 upward. The upward movement of the transmission member 224 compresses the second elastic member 251. At this time, the first elastic member 223 supported by the transmission member 224 presses against the connecting member 222. As the laundry tub 11 rotates upward, the push rod 221 connected to the connector 222 via the latch 225 also moves upward. When the push rod 221 rises until the c signal changes from 1 to 0, the drive motor stops, and the entire tub is in the positioning state, with the limit switch state set to a0b1c0. The laundry tub 11 then rotates at a low speed, causing the skirt 2211 to contact the blocking member 112, achieving positioning. The laundry tub 11 stops, and the drive motor continues to rotate counterclockwise, causing the push rod 221 to continue rising until the b signal changes from 1 to 0, indicating that the drain outlet 111 is fully closed. When a changes from 0 to 1, the drive motor stops, entering the wash phase, and the limit switch state set to a1b0c0. When the wash phase ends and the spin phase begins, the drive motor continues to rotate counterclockwise. The second spring releases its force, ensuring that the transmission member 224 remains externally connected to the cam, causing the push rod 221 to descend synchronously with the cam. When the limit switch state changes to a1b1c1, the drive motor stops, returning to the drain phase.

[0121] When the water tank 11 is opened, the sealing portion 211 closes the water tank 11 and the water can be discharged. When the water tank 11 is opened, the sealing portion 211 closes the water tank 11 and the water can be discharged. The contact area improves the positioning accuracy and sealing reliability; multiple limit switches are provided to control the movement of the rotating member 252, and the degree of automation is high.

[0122] While the exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure have been specifically illustrated and described above, it should be understood that the present disclosure is not limited to the detailed structures, configurations, or implementations described herein; rather, the present disclosure is intended to encompass various modifications and equivalent configurations within the spirit and scope of the appended claims.

Claims

1. A washing machine comprising a laundry processing tub and a drainage device, wherein a drainage port is formed at the bottom of the laundry processing tub, and the drainage device is arranged below the drainage port; The drainage device comprises: a sealing member having a sealing portion for cooperating with the opening and closing of the drain outlet; The transmission mechanism includes a push rod, a first elastic member, and a transmission member; one end of the push rod is connected to the sealing portion, the other end of the push rod is in transmission connection with the transmission member, and the first elastic member is connected between the push rod and the transmission member; A driving mechanism can drive the transmission member to move in a direction of closing the drain outlet, so that the first elastic member drives the push rod to move upward; The transmission member has a first working position and a second working position. When the transmission member moves to the first working position, the sealing portion and the drain outlet are in a separated state to open the drain outlet; when the transmission member moves to the second working position, the sealing portion and the drain outlet are in a contact state to close the drain outlet. The transmission mechanism further includes a connecting member; the connecting member is disposed at the bottom of the top rod and connected to the top rod, and the first elastic member is disposed between the connecting member and the transmission member; the connecting member and the transmission member are in sliding engagement; The first elastic member is designed so that when the transmission member continues to move from the second working position toward closing the drain outlet, the transmission member cooperates with the connecting member, and the transmission member moves relative to the connecting member and the ejector rod, thereby compressing the first elastic member; The transmission mechanism also includes a latch; the connecting member and the top rod are connected by the latch; the transmission member is formed with a slide groove, and the transmission member and the connecting member are indirectly slidably matched through the latch and the slide groove; when the transmission member moves relative to the connecting member, the latch slides in the slide groove.

2. The washing machine according to claim 1, wherein The connecting piece and the top rod are both formed with a pin hole, and the pin passes through the pin hole of the connecting piece and the pin hole of the top rod in sequence to achieve a fixed connection between the connecting piece and the bottom of the top rod.

3. The washing machine according to claim 1, wherein The connecting member is formed with a guide portion; a transmission member limiting portion A is formed on the top of the transmission member, and the transmission member limiting portion A is formed with a guide groove, and the guide portion and the first elastic member are embedded in the guide groove; The transmission member and the connecting member are directly slidably matched via the guide portion and the guide groove; When the transmission member moves relative to the connecting member, the guide portion slides in the guide groove.

4. The washing machine according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that: The washing machine further comprises a water collecting member, which is arranged below the drain outlet; a mounting position is formed at the bottom of the water collecting member, and the drainage device is arranged at the mounting position; the drainage device further comprises a first bracket and a second bracket, and the sealing member, the first bracket and the second bracket are arranged in sequence from top to bottom; a first bracket limiting portion is formed at the top of the first bracket, and a sliding hole is formed in the first bracket limiting portion, and the push rod passes through the sliding hole and cooperates with the sliding hole through a bearing; a first fixing portion is formed at the bottom of the first bracket limiting portion, and the first fixing portion is fixed to the bottom wall of the mounting position; A second fixing portion is formed on the top of the second bracket, and the second fixing portion is fixed to the bottom of the first bracket; a second bracket limiting portion A is formed on the side of the second bracket, and the second bracket limiting portion A forms a limiting groove, and the bottom of the transmission member is embedded in the limiting groove; When the driving mechanism drives the transmission member to move, the bottom of the transmission member slides in the limiting groove.

5. The washing machine according to claim 4, characterized in that The driving mechanism includes a rotating member and a second elastic member; the rotating member is arranged at the bottom of the transmission member, and the second elastic member is connected between the second fixing portion and the transmission member; The rotating member can drive the transmission member to move in the direction of closing the drain outlet, the second elastic member is compressed to store energy, and at the same time the first elastic member drives the push rod to move upward; when the second elastic member releases energy, the second elastic member drives the transmission member to move in the direction of opening the drain outlet, and the first elastic member drives the push rod to move downward.

6. The washing machine according to claim 5, characterized in that A second bracket limiting portion B is formed on the top of the second bracket, and a transmission member limiting portion B is also formed on the top of the transmission member; one end of the second elastic member is sleeved on the outside of the second bracket limiting portion B, and the other end of the second elastic member is embedded between the transmission member limiting portion A and the transmission member limiting portion B; The second bracket limiting portion B is formed with an installation cavity, which is communicated with the sliding hole. The top of the push rod passes through the sliding hole from the installation cavity.

7. The washing machine according to claim 5, characterized in that The outer periphery of the rotating member has a distal end and a proximal end, wherein the distal end is farther from the rotation center of the rotating member than the proximal end; The rotating member is controlled to rotate, and when the remote end gradually contacts the transmission member, the transmission member moves in a direction of closing the drain outlet, and the second elastic member stores energy; When the proximal end gradually contacts the transmission member, the second elastic member releases energy, and the transmission member moves in a direction to open the drain outlet.

8. The washing machine according to claim 7, characterized in that The rotating member is a cam.

9. The washing machine according to claim 6, wherein: The drainage device further includes a blocking member disposed at the bottom of the laundry treatment tub; the sealing member is formed with a positioning portion that cooperates with the blocking member, and the positioning portion is located on a side of the sealing portion; The transmission member further has a third working position, and the third working position is located between the first working position and the second working position; When the transmission member moves to the third working position, the laundry processing tub is controlled to rotate and the positioning portion is brought into contact with the blocking member, so that the sealing portion is located below the drain outlet.

10. The washing machine according to claim 9, characterized in that A first limit switch and / or a second limit switch are provided in the mounting cavity; a first trigger position and a second trigger position are formed on a side of the push rod and are opposite to each other; a third limit switch is provided on the second bracket, and a third trigger position is formed on an outer peripheral side of the rotating member; the first limit switch, the second limit switch, and the third limit switch are all electrically connected to a controller of the washing machine; When the washing machine switches between the washing stage and the dehydration stage, the drainage device has the following working relationship: When the transmission member moves to the first working position, the first limit switch and the second limit switch are both in a closed state, the third limit switch is in an open state, and the drain outlet is opened; When the washing machine is in a washing stage, the rotating member is controlled to rotate and drive the transmission member to move toward the third working position, the first elastic member drives the push rod and the sealing portion to move upward, and when the first trigger position contacts the first limit switch and the first limit switch is disconnected, the rotating member is controlled to stop rotating, the laundry treatment tub is controlled to rotate and the positioning portion contacts the blocking member, and the sealing portion is positioned below the drain outlet; The rotating member is controlled to continue rotating and drive the transmission member to move toward the second working position, and the first elastic member drives the ejector rod and the sealing portion to continue moving upward. When the second trigger position contacts the second limit switch and disconnects the second limit switch, the sealing portion closes the drain port, and the rotating member is controlled to stop rotating. When the washing machine enters the dehydration stage from the washing stage, the rotating member is controlled to continue rotating, the third limit switch is in a closed state, the second elastic member drives the transmission member to move toward the first working position, the push rod and the sealing portion move downward, the drain outlet is opened, the second trigger position is separated from the second limit switch and closes the second limit switch, the first trigger position is separated from the first limit switch and closes the first limit switch, and the third trigger position contacts the third limit switch and opens the third limit switch, at which time the rotating member is controlled to stop rotating.

11. The washing machine according to claim 4, characterized in that The top of the push rod forms a skirt; the top of the seal is formed with the sealing portion, and the bottom of the seal is formed with a third fixing portion; the third fixing portion is arranged between the bottom wall of the installation position and the first fixing portion; The sealing member is formed with a corrugated section between the sealing portion and the third fixing portion; the sealing portion and the corrugated section enclose a sealing cavity, which is communicated with the sliding hole; the top of the ejector rod sequentially extends upward into the sealing cavity through the bottom of the sealing cavity and is connected to the sealing portion through the skirt; When the sealing portion moves up and down along with the push rod, the corrugated section expands or contracts.

Images