A bagged liquid treatment agent dispensing device, a washing machine, and a dishwasher

Abstract

A bagged liquid treatment agent dispensing device, a washing machine, and a dishwasher include a bagged treatment agent placement position and an extraction device, as well as an early warning liquid storage chamber. The early warning liquid storage chamber is provided with a liquid inlet and an air inlet and exhaust device, the liquid inlet is connected to a bagged treatment agent interface; the early warning liquid storage chamber is in communication with the extraction device. The bagged liquid treatment agent dispensing device, a washing machine, and a dishwasher provided by the invention have the following advantages over the prior art: the dispensing device can directly interface with the bagged liquid treatment agent, and the early warning liquid storage chamber can store a certain amount of liquid treatment agent. When the bagged liquid treatment agent is used up and the user is prompted to replace it, the liquid treatment agent stored in the early warning liquid storage chamber is still enough for the user to use several times, leaving the user with enough time to replace or purchase the bagged liquid treatment agent without affecting normal use this time or next time.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a liquid treatment agent dispensing device, in particular to a bagged liquid treatment agent dispensing device and a washing machine and a dishwasher using the dispensing device. Background Art

[0002] Washing machines are essential household appliances in our daily lives. With technological advancements, fully automatic washing machines have largely replaced traditional semi-automatic washing machines. Furthermore, laundry detergent offers better cleaning effects and less damage to fabrics than traditional powders and soaps, gradually replacing traditional detergents. As people's quality of life improves, washing machines are becoming increasingly powerful. For example, the detergent dispenser on a washing machine can automatically dispense detergent based on the material and weight of the clothes, or through manual adjustment. Current liquid detergent dispensers include a liquid reservoir, a liquid pump, and a liquid detection device. Because the reservoir is not sealed, if the washing machine is not used for an extended period, the liquid in the reservoir can dry up, clogging the detergent line. Furthermore, the reservoir is prone to bacterial growth, and volatile disinfectants cannot be stored for extended periods or dispensed automatically.

[0003] In order to solve this problem, people have come up with the idea of connecting the liquid outlet of the bagged laundry detergent directly to the detergent dispensing device to form a completely enclosed internal environment, which can solve the various disadvantages brought about by the open liquid storage box in the above-mentioned detergent dispensing device. At the same time, the large-scale use of bagged laundry detergent can reduce users' expenses compared to bottled laundry detergent, and also reduce the generation of plastic waste.

[0004] For example, patent application number 201911029325.1, published on February 14, 2020, discloses a detergent dispensing system that can use a detergent bag. The detergent dispensing system includes a detergent extraction device and a detergent storage assembly disposed on the detergent dispensing system. The detergent storage assembly is provided with a pipe joint assembly for connecting to the detergent bag. The pipe joint assembly has a sealing plug at the liquid inlet end, and the liquid outlet end of the detergent bag has a mounting interface that plugs into the sealing plug. The detergent extraction device extracts detergent from the detergent bag through the pipe joint assembly. While the above technical solution solves the various drawbacks of the open liquid storage box in existing detergent dispensing devices, because the detergent in the system is completely stored in the detergent bag, it is impossible to use a detection device to detect the remaining detergent amount and notify the user. This often leads to inconveniences such as finding that the detergent has run out or the remaining amount is insufficient during laundry. This is particularly embarrassing at night when the store is closed and the user is in a hurry to wash clothes.

[0005] Another example is the invention patent of Chinese Patent No. 201910576263.X, published on October 8, 2019, which discloses an automatic detergent dispensing device, comprising a packaging bag and a detergent storage tank for accommodating the packaging bag, wherein the detergent storage tank is provided with a cavity with an upper end being open, the packaging bag is placed in the cavity, the packaging bag comprises a bag body with a bag mouth and a lid covering the bag mouth, an annular bayonet is provided at one end of the bag mouth close to the bag body, and a symmetrically arranged bayonet is provided on both the front and rear sides and / or the left and right sides of the bayonet. The detergent reservoir has a groove therein, the lid is located on the outside of the bayonet, a sealed sealing film is provided at the opening at the front end of the bag mouth, a slot is provided on the upper side of the rear end of the detergent reservoir to engage with the bayonet, the lower ends of the two side walls of the slot are convex and provided with convex strips that engage with the groove, and the front end of the bag mouth protrudes from the detergent reservoir; a weighing sensor is provided at the bottom of the cavity in the detergent reservoir, and the weighing sensor can be used in conjunction with the control system in the washing machine to remind the user to replace the bagged detergent when the weight of the packaging bag in the detergent reservoir is sensed to be lower than a preset gravity value. Although the above technical solution provides a technical solution for detecting the remaining amount of bagged detergent and giving an alarm, the solution of detecting the remaining amount of bagged detergent by using a weighing sensor has the following disadvantages: 1. Due to the extremely uneven distribution of detergent in the bag, the detection accuracy of the gravity sensor is poor, resulting in a high probability of false alarms; if multiple gravity sensors are used to detect multiple parts of the bagged detergent at the same time and then the remaining amount of detergent is calculated by a microprocessor based on the detection results of multiple gravity sensors, the cost of the detection component will be greatly increased, and the gravity sensor is placed in the detergent storage tank and is weighed by the detergent for a long time, which may damage several parts; The high rate of alarms, short service life, and high maintenance costs ultimately lead to a high probability of false alarms. 2. When the gravity sensor detects that the bag of detergent is used up and alarms, the user must first go to buy detergent before continuing to use it. 3. If the gravity sensor detects that the remaining amount of detergent in the bag is not enough for one wash and alarms, the user must also go to buy detergent before continuing to use it. At this time, replacing a new bag of detergent will cause the remaining detergent in the original bag to be wasted or have nowhere to put it. 4. When it detects that there is still a lot of detergent left in the bag and alarms, it is often ignored by the user, resulting in insufficient detergent liquid for the next wash. It will also happen that the detergent is exhausted or the remaining amount is not enough to complete the current wash, which brings an embarrassing situation. Summary of the Invention

[0006] The technical problem to be solved by the present invention is to overcome the deficiencies of the above-mentioned prior art and provide a bagged liquid treatment agent dispensing device, a washing machine and a dishwasher.

[0007] The main technical solution adopted by the bagged liquid treatment agent dispensing device provided by the invention is: it includes a bagged treatment agent placement position and an extraction device, and also includes an early warning liquid storage chamber, the early warning liquid storage chamber is provided with a liquid inlet and an air intake and exhaust device, and the liquid inlet is connected to the bagged treatment agent interface; the early warning liquid storage chamber is connected to the extraction device, and the volume of the early warning liquid storage chamber is 2 ml-300 ml.

[0008] The bagged liquid treatment agent delivery device provided by the invention also adopts the following auxiliary technical solutions:

[0009] At least one of the early warning liquid storage chamber, the bagged treatment agent placement position, and the air intake and exhaust device is provided with a sensor.

[0010] The sensor is any one or more of a liquid level sensor, a deformation sensor, a gravity sensor, an air pressure sensor, an air flow sensor, a capacitance sensor, a photoelectric sensor, and an ultrasonic sensor.

[0011] The early warning liquid storage chamber is provided with the liquid level sensor.

[0012] The liquid level sensor includes a matching magnetic switch and a magnetic float; a longitudinal slide groove is provided in the early warning liquid storage chamber, the longitudinal slide groove is connected to the interior of the early warning liquid storage chamber, the magnetic float is movably arranged in the longitudinal slide groove, and the magnetic switch is arranged on the side wall of the early warning liquid storage chamber.

[0013] The magnetic switch is arranged on the outer wall of the upper part of the early warning liquid storage chamber.

[0014] The capacitive sensor is provided at the early warning liquid storage chamber.

[0015] The air intake and exhaust device includes an air intake and exhaust valve provided on the early warning liquid storage chamber.

[0016] The air intake and exhaust device further comprises a vent pipe provided on the early warning liquid storage chamber, and the air intake and exhaust valve is provided on the vent pipe.

[0017] The vent pipe is arranged on the liquid inlet, and a liquid inlet branch is provided on the vent pipe. The liquid inlet branch is connected to the bagged treatment agent interface through the liquid inlet pipe, and the inner diameter of the liquid inlet branch is smaller than the inner diameter of the vent pipe.

[0018] The level of the air intake and exhaust device is higher than the level of the top of the bagged treatment agent placement position.

[0019] The air intake and exhaust device includes an air intake valve and an air exhaust valve arranged on the early warning liquid storage chamber.

[0020] The air intake and exhaust device further comprises an air intake pipe and an exhaust pipe arranged on the early warning liquid storage chamber, the air intake valve is arranged on the air intake pipe, and the exhaust valve is arranged on the exhaust pipe.

[0021] The air inlet pipe or the exhaust pipe is arranged on the liquid inlet.

[0022] It also includes a bracket, and the extraction device and the early warning liquid storage chamber are both arranged on the bracket.

[0023] The bagged treatment agent placement position is a receiving groove provided on the bracket.

[0024] The accommodating groove is movably arranged on the bracket.

[0025] The accommodating tank is provided with a liquid bag pressing plate, and the liquid bag pressing plate is movably arranged on the accommodating tank.

[0026] The intake and exhaust valves include a valve seat, a first air hole provided at the upper end of the valve seat, a second air hole provided at the lower end of the valve seat, an intake valve body provided in the valve seat, an exhaust hole provided on the intake valve body, and an exhaust valve body provided at the exhaust hole; the intake valve body is movably provided in the valve seat, an elastic member is provided between the valve seat and the intake valve body, an openable and closable intake gap is formed between the intake valve body and the valve seat, and an openable and closable exhaust gap is formed between the exhaust valve body and the intake valve body.

[0027] The early warning liquid storage chamber is provided with a liquid outlet, and the liquid outlet is communicated with the extraction device.

[0028] The extraction device is any one of a peristaltic pump, a piston pump, a gear pump, and a venturi tube negative pressure extraction device.

[0029] The bagged treatment agent interface comprises a docking plug, a sealing ring arranged on the docking plug, and a locking mechanism arranged on the docking plug.

[0030] There are two early warning liquid storage chambers, and both of the early warning liquid storage chambers are provided with a liquid inlet and an exhaust device, and both of the liquid inlets are connected to the bagged treatment agent interface; there are two extraction devices, and both of the early warning liquid storage chambers are connected to the extraction devices; or the extraction device is a double-pipeline extraction device, and both of the early warning liquid storage chambers are connected to the double-pipeline extraction device.

[0031] There are multiple early warning liquid storage chambers, each of which is provided with a liquid inlet and an exhaust device, and each of the liquid inlets is connected to a bagged treatment agent interface; there are multiple extraction devices, each of which is connected to the extraction device.

[0032] The main technical solution adopted by the washing machine provided by the invention is: it includes a body, a washing drum assembly arranged in the body, a clothing treatment agent dispensing device and a controller, the clothing treatment agent dispensing device includes a bagged treatment agent placement position and an extraction device, and also includes an early warning liquid storage chamber, the early warning liquid storage chamber is provided with a liquid inlet and an air intake and exhaust device, the liquid inlet is connected to a bagged treatment agent interface, and the bagged treatment agent interface is located at the bagged treatment agent placement position; the early warning liquid storage chamber is connected to the extraction device, and the volume of the early warning liquid storage chamber is 2 ml-300 ml.

[0033] The main technical solution adopted by the dishwasher provided by the invention is: it includes a body, a dishwashing component arranged in the body, a dishwashing agent dispensing device and a controller, the dishwashing agent dispensing device includes a bagged treatment agent placement position and an extraction device, and also includes an early warning liquid storage chamber, the early warning liquid storage chamber is provided with a liquid inlet and an air intake and exhaust device, the liquid inlet is connected to a bagged treatment agent interface, and the bagged treatment agent interface is located at the bagged treatment agent placement position; the early warning liquid storage chamber is connected to the extraction device, and the volume of the early warning liquid storage chamber is 2 ml-300 ml.

[0034] The bagged liquid treatment agent dispensing device provided by the present invention has the following advantages over the prior art: 1. Bagged liquid treatment agents, such as detergents and softeners, can be directly docked with the dispensing device. Compared with prior art dispensing devices, this device avoids the problem of drying up the liquid in the detergent reservoir, causing blockage in the detergent liquid pipeline and inconvenient cleaning. 2. After the bagged disinfectant is used in the dispensing device, due to its good overall sealing, compared with prior art, it avoids corrosion of the electrical components caused by the volatilization of disinfectant stored in the electrical appliance for a long time. 3. The warning liquid storage chamber in the dispensing device can store a certain amount of liquid treatment agent. When the bagged liquid treatment agent docked with the dispensing device is used up and the user is prompted to replace it, the liquid treatment agent stored in the warning liquid storage chamber is still sufficient for the user to use several times, leaving the user with sufficient time to replace or purchase bagged detergent without affecting normal use this time or the next time. 4. Because the final liquid treatment agent in the bagged liquid treatment agent is consumed under the negative pressure generated by the operation of the extraction device, waste is effectively reduced and environmental protection is beneficial.

[0035] The washing machine provided by the invention has the following advantages compared with the prior art: 1. Bags of liquid treatment agents such as detergents, softeners, etc. can be directly connected to the dispensing device on the washing machine. Compared with the prior art, this avoids the problem of blockage of the washing liquid pipeline and inconvenience in cleaning caused by the drying of the liquid in the detergent storage tank; 2. After the bagged disinfectant is used in the above-mentioned dispensing device, due to its good overall sealing, compared with the prior art, it avoids the corrosion of the washing machine parts caused by the volatilization of the disinfectant stored in the washing machine for a long time; 3. The early warning liquid storage chamber in the above-mentioned dispensing device can store a certain amount of clothing treatment agent. When the bagged liquid treatment agent such as detergent connected to the dispensing device is used up and the user is prompted to replace it, the detergent stored in the early warning liquid storage chamber is still enough for the user to wash several times of clothes. Without affecting the normal use this time and next time, the user is given enough time to replace or purchase bagged detergent.

[0036] The dishwasher provided by the invention has the following advantages compared with the prior art: 1. Bags of dishwashing detergent can be directly connected to the dispensing device on the dishwasher. Compared with the prior art, this avoids the problem of blockage of the washing liquid pipeline and inconvenience in cleaning caused by the drying of the liquid in the dishwashing detergent storage tank; 2. After the bagged disinfectant is used in the above-mentioned dispensing device, due to its good overall sealing, compared with the prior art, it avoids the corrosion of the dishwasher components caused by the volatilization of the disinfectant stored in the dishwasher for a long time; 3. The early warning liquid storage chamber in the above-mentioned dispensing device can store a certain amount of dishwashing detergent. When the bagged dishwashing detergent connected to the dispensing device is used up and prompts the user to replace it, the detergent stored in the early warning liquid storage chamber is still enough for the user to wash dishes several times, and the user is given enough time to replace or purchase bagged detergent without affecting the normal use this time and next time. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0037] Figure 1 This is the structure of the bagged liquid treatment agent delivery device in the first embodiment of the present invention. Figure 1 .

[0038] Figure 2 This is the structure of the bagged liquid treatment agent delivery device in the first embodiment of the present invention. Figure 2 .

[0039] Figure 3 This is the structure of the bagged liquid treatment agent delivery device in the first embodiment of the present invention. Figure 3 .

[0040] Figure 4 This is a state diagram of the accommodating groove in the chute in embodiment 1 of the present invention.

[0041] Figure 5 This is a state diagram of the bagged treatment agent interface and the bagged liquid treatment agent after docking in the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0042] Figure 6 It is a bottom view of the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0043] Figure 7 yes Figure 6 Cross-sectional view of AA.

[0044] Figure 8 This is a state diagram of the bagged treatment agent interface before docking with the bagged liquid treatment agent in the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0045] Figure 9 It is a structural diagram of the intake and exhaust valves in Example 1 of the present invention.

[0046] Figure 10 It is a top view of the intake and exhaust valves in the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0047] Figure 11 yes Figure 10 Cross-section of the BB.

[0048] Figure 12 It is a structural diagram of the exhaust valve body on the intake and exhaust valves in embodiment 1 of the present invention.

[0049] Figure 13 It is a structural exploded view of the intake and exhaust valves in the first embodiment of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0050] Example 1

[0051] See also Figures 1 to 7According to an embodiment of the bagged liquid treatment agent dispensing device provided by the invention, the device includes a bagged treatment agent placement position and an extraction device 1, as well as a warning liquid storage chamber 2. The warning liquid storage chamber 2 is provided with a liquid inlet 21 and an air inlet and exhaust device. The liquid inlet is connected to a bagged treatment agent interface 5, which is located at the bagged treatment agent placement position. The warning liquid storage chamber 2 is connected to the extraction device 1 and has a capacity of 2 ml to 300 ml. In this embodiment, 150 ml is preferred. When the present invention is used specifically, the bagged liquid treatment agent 8 purchased on the market, such as detergent, softener, disinfectant, etc., in the form of a bag can be directly connected to the bagged treatment agent interface 5, and the liquid treatment agent in the packaging bag enters the early warning liquid storage chamber 2 through the liquid inlet 21. In the process of the liquid treatment agent entering the early warning liquid storage chamber 2, the weight of the liquid treatment agent is greater than the weight of the air, and the liquid treatment agent flows to the bottom of the early warning liquid storage chamber 2, squeezing the air in the early warning liquid storage chamber 2, thereby increasing the air pressure in the early warning liquid storage chamber 2. When the air pressure reaches a certain threshold, the exhaust function of the air intake and exhaust device is turned on, and the air in the early warning liquid storage chamber 2 is discharged from the early warning liquid storage chamber 2 through the air intake and exhaust device, and the extraction device 1 extracts the liquid treatment agent in the early warning liquid storage chamber 2 and puts it into an electrical appliance such as a washing machine or a dishwasher; when the extraction device 1 works, when the liquid treatment agent is extracted from the early warning liquid storage chamber 2 The liquid treatment agent in the bagged liquid treatment agent 8 will be automatically replenished into the warning liquid storage chamber 2 under the action of gravity. The liquid treatment agent in the bagged liquid treatment agent 8 will decrease with each automatic replenishment, and the volume of the bagged liquid treatment agent 8 will also become smaller, and the bag will become more and more deflated; if the liquid treatment agent in the bagged liquid treatment agent 8 has not been completely used up, but it can no longer be automatically replenished into the warning liquid storage chamber 2 by its own gravity, the extraction device 1 will extract the liquid treatment agent in the warning liquid storage chamber 2 at this time, and the liquid treatment agent in the bagged liquid treatment agent 8 will be replenished into the warning liquid storage chamber 2 under the action of negative pressure; when the volume of the bagged liquid treatment agent 8 becomes the minimum state of the set volume, that is, there is no liquid treatment agent inside or only a trace amount of liquid treatment agent remains and the replacement conditions are met, the user can know that a new bagged liquid treatment agent 8 is needed. At this time, there is still a certain amount of liquid treatment agent in the warning liquid storage chamber 2 for the user to continue using for at least 1-2 times, leaving the user with enough time to replace or purchase a bag of liquid treatment agent 8. This avoids the embarrassing situation of the user starting the dispensing device to find out that there is no detergent available when the store is closed when the user starts washing clothes or dishes.Before the bagged liquid treatment agent 8 reaches the replacement condition but is not replaced with a new bagged liquid treatment agent 8, the extraction device 1 extracts the liquid treatment agent in the early warning liquid storage chamber 2, and negative pressure will be generated in the early warning liquid storage chamber 2. When the negative pressure in the early warning liquid storage chamber 2 increases to a certain level, the air intake function of the air intake and exhaust device is turned on, and the outside air enters the early warning liquid storage chamber 2 through the air intake and exhaust device to balance the internal negative pressure of the early warning liquid storage chamber 2, ensuring that the liquid treatment agent in the early warning liquid storage chamber 2 can continue to be extracted and delivered by the extraction device 1; since the negative pressure required to open the air intake function of the air intake and exhaust device is much greater than the negative pressure required for the liquid treatment agent in the bagged liquid treatment agent 8 to be exhausted or reach the replacement condition, the air intake function of the air intake and exhaust device will not be turned on before the bagged liquid treatment agent 8 reaches the replacement condition, thereby ensuring the reliability of the delivery device. Since the liquid treatment agent in the early warning liquid storage chamber 2 will always maintain a certain liquid level height before the bagged liquid treatment agent 8 reaches the replacement condition, the user can also judge that the bagged liquid treatment agent 8 has reached the replacement condition based on the drop in the liquid level of the liquid treatment agent in the early warning liquid storage chamber 2, thereby knowing that the bagged liquid treatment agent 8 needs to be replaced or purchased.

[0052] Compared with the prior art, the present invention has the following advantages: 1. Bags of liquid treatment agents 8, such as detergents and softeners, can be directly connected to the dispensing device. Compared with the existing dispensing device, this avoids the problem of liquid in the detergent reservoir drying up, causing blockage in the washing liquid pipeline and inconvenient cleaning. 2. After the bagged disinfectant is used in the above-mentioned dispensing device, due to its good overall sealing, compared with the prior art, it avoids corrosion of the electrical components caused by the volatilization of disinfectants stored in the electrical appliance for a long time. 3. The warning liquid storage chamber 2 in the above-mentioned dispensing device can store a certain amount of liquid treatment agent. When the bagged liquid treatment agent 8 connected to the dispensing device is used up and the user is prompted to replace it, the liquid treatment agent stored in the warning liquid storage chamber 2 is still sufficient for the user to use several times, without affecting the normal use of the current and next time, leaving the user with sufficient time to replace or purchase bagged detergent. 4. Because the last liquid treatment agent in the bagged liquid treatment agent 8 is exhausted under the negative pressure generated by the operation of the extraction device, waste is effectively reduced and environmental protection is beneficial.

[0053] See also Figure 1 and Figure 2According to the above-mentioned embodiment of the invention, at least one of the early warning liquid storage chamber 2, the bagged treatment agent placement position, and the air intake and exhaust device is provided with a sensor. During specific use, the sensor is connected to the controller on the electrical appliance, and the detection signal of the sensor is used up to know that the liquid treatment agent in the bagged liquid treatment agent 8 has been used up, that is, the replacement condition has been reached, or the detection signal of the sensor is used up to know that the treatment agent liquid level in the early warning liquid storage chamber 2 has dropped, or the detection signal of the sensor is used up to know that the early warning liquid storage chamber 2 is in a negative pressure state, and the controller thereby determines that the liquid treatment agent in the bagged liquid treatment agent 8 has been used up or the replacement condition has been reached (the replacement condition refers to a trace amount of liquid treatment agent remaining in the bag, which can no longer be poured out or extracted, and has reached the standard for waste), and then the controller issues a prompt that the bagged liquid treatment agent 8 has been used up and needs to be replaced. In this embodiment, it is preferred to set a sensor in the early warning liquid storage chamber 2. If the bagged liquid treatment agent is not judged to be exhausted and needs to be replaced without using sensor detection, a visual window can also be provided on the outer shell of the washing machine or dishwasher. When the early warning liquid storage chamber 2 is made of transparent material, the liquid level in the early warning liquid storage chamber 2 starts to drop when seen manually, thereby judging that the treatment agent in the bagged liquid treatment agent 8 is exhausted.

[0054] See also Figure 1 、 Figure 2 and Figure 7 According to the above-mentioned embodiments of the invention, the sensor is any one or more of a liquid level sensor, a deformation sensor, a gravity sensor, an air pressure sensor, an airflow sensor, a capacitance sensor, a photoelectric sensor, and an ultrasonic sensor. The liquid level sensor may be a magnetic float sensor, a capacitance sensor, or the like; the gravity sensor may be one or more, i.e., a single-point or multi-point weight measurement. In this embodiment, a magnetic float sensor is preferably used, which detects changes in the liquid level of the early warning liquid storage chamber 2 and thereby determines whether the liquid treatment agent in the bagged liquid treatment agent 8 has been depleted and reached the replacement standard.

[0055] See also Figure 1 、 Figure 2 and Figure 7 According to the above-mentioned embodiment of the invention, the early warning liquid storage chamber 2 is provided with the liquid level sensor, and the liquid level sensor includes a matching magnetic switch 10 and a magnetic float 11. The magnetic switch 10 is fixed on the outer wall of the early warning liquid storage chamber 2, and the magnetic float 11 is movably arranged in the early warning liquid storage chamber 2. The magnetic switch 10 is a relatively mature technology in the prior art and will not be described in detail here. This type of liquid level sensor has a simple structure and assembly scheme, and can be used for electrical appliances with humid internal environments such as washing machines and dishwashers. When the liquid level in the early warning liquid storage chamber 2 decreases, the magnetic float 11 drops along with the liquid level, and the magnetic float 11 moves away from the magnetic switch 10, thereby changing the state of the magnetic switch 10 and transmitting the signal to the controller of the appliance.

[0056] See also Figure 1 、 Figure 2 and Figure 7 According to the aforementioned embodiment of the invention, a longitudinal chute 23 is provided within the warning liquid storage chamber 2, communicating with the interior of the warning liquid storage chamber 2. The magnetic float 11 is movably disposed within the longitudinal chute 23, and the magnetic switch 10 is disposed on the sidewall of the warning liquid storage chamber 2. The provision of the longitudinal chute 23 ensures that the float 11 can only float up and down within a fixed area, preventing the float 11 from drifting unsteadily within the warning liquid storage chamber 2 and reducing the reliability of the liquid level sensor.

[0057] See also Figure 1 、 Figure 2 and Figure 7 According to the aforementioned embodiment of the invention, the magnetic switch 10 is located on the outer wall of the upper portion of the warning liquid storage chamber 2. Specifically, when the warning liquid storage chamber 2 is relatively full of liquid treatment agent, the magnetic float 11 located in the upper portion of the warning liquid storage chamber 2 can effectively cooperate with the magnetic switch 10. This structure ensures that as soon as the liquid level in the warning liquid storage chamber 2 drops, the magnetic switch 10 senses the change in position of the magnetic float 11, triggering a change in the trigger state. By the time the magnetic switch 10 transmits a signal to the appliance's controller, sufficient liquid treatment agent remains in the warning liquid storage chamber 2 for at least two uses by the user.

[0058] See also Figure 1 and Figure 3 According to the above-mentioned embodiment of the invention, the air intake and exhaust device includes an air intake and exhaust valve 9 provided on the warning liquid storage chamber 2. The air intake and exhaust valve 9 is a relatively mature technology in the prior art and will not be described in detail here. The air intake and exhaust valve 9 is usually in a closed state and neither intakes air nor exhausts air. The air intake and exhaust device adopts an air intake and exhaust valve 9 with a simple structure, convenient assembly and low production cost. When the liquid treatment agent in the bagged liquid treatment agent 8 flows into the warning liquid storage chamber 2, the excess air in the warning liquid storage chamber 2 is discharged through the air intake and exhaust valve 9; when the liquid treatment agent in the bagged liquid treatment agent 8 is used up, when the extraction device 1 extracts the liquid treatment agent from the warning liquid storage chamber 2, external air enters the warning liquid storage chamber 2 from the air intake and exhaust valve 9 to balance the negative pressure in the warning liquid storage chamber 2, ensuring that the extraction device 1 can smoothly extract the liquid treatment agent from the warning liquid storage chamber 2.

[0059] See also Figure 1 and Figure 3According to the above-mentioned embodiment of the invention, the air intake and exhaust device also includes a vent pipe 3 provided on the early warning liquid storage chamber 2, and the air intake and exhaust valve 9 is provided on the vent pipe 3. The horizontal height of the air intake and exhaust device is higher than the horizontal height of the top of the bagged treatment agent placement position. The provision of the vent pipe 3 can increase the setting height of the air intake and exhaust valve 9 without making the early warning liquid storage chamber 2 very large or very high, thereby preventing the bagged liquid treatment agent 8 from overflowing from the air intake and exhaust device after filling the early warning liquid storage chamber 2. The horizontal height of the bagged treatment agent placement position is higher than the horizontal height of the early warning liquid storage chamber 2. It is ensured that the liquid treatment agent in the bagged liquid treatment agent can flow smoothly and naturally into the early warning liquid storage chamber 2 under the action of gravity.

[0060] See also Figure 2 According to the above-mentioned embodiment of the invention, the vent tube 3 is provided on the liquid inlet 21, and a liquid inlet branch 31 is provided on the vent tube 3. The liquid inlet branch 31 is connected to the bagged treatment agent interface 5 via the liquid inlet pipe 6. The inner diameter of the liquid inlet branch 31 is smaller than the inner diameter of the vent tube 3. Providing the vent tube 3 at the liquid inlet 21 of the early warning liquid storage chamber 2 simplifies the product structure, reduces the number of openings in the early warning liquid storage chamber 2, and saves the sealing cost caused by the openings. At the same time, the inner diameter of the liquid inlet branch 31 is smaller than the inner diameter of the vent tube 3, ensuring that when the liquid treatment agent enters the early warning liquid storage chamber 2 through the vent tube 3, the vent tube 3 will not be blocked, resulting in the air in the early warning liquid storage chamber 2 being unable to be discharged, and thus the liquid treatment agent cannot enter the early warning liquid storage chamber 2.

[0061] See also Figures 1 to 3 According to the above-mentioned embodiment of the invention, a bracket 4 is further included, and the extraction device 1 and the early warning liquid storage chamber 2 are both arranged on the bracket 4. The provision of the bracket 4 facilitates the modular installation of the present invention on the electrical appliance, reduces the probability of damage to the extraction device 1 and the early warning liquid storage chamber 2 during the installation process, and improves the product qualification rate and reliability.

[0062] See also Figures 1 to 7 According to the above-mentioned embodiment of the invention, the bagged treatment agent placement location is a receiving groove 42 provided on the bracket 4. This facilitates the placement and securing of the bagged liquid treatment agent 8 on the dispensing device. The bagged treatment agent placement location can also be directly located in other locations on the appliance, such as on the housing of a washing machine or dishwasher.

[0063] See also Figures 1 to 7According to the above-mentioned embodiment of the invention, the accommodating groove 42 can be movably provided on the bracket 4. The bracket 4 is provided with a slide 41, and the accommodating groove 42 can be drawn out and arranged in the slide 41, such as a drawer-type pull-out structure. The accommodating groove 42 is installed on the bracket 4 using the above-mentioned structure, so that the bagged liquid treatment agent 8 can be well hidden on the electrical appliance housing, and the replacement of the bagged liquid treatment agent 8 is convenient. The accommodating groove 42 can also be provided on the slide 41 in a flip-up structure. A plug-in structure can also be adopted between the accommodating groove 42 and the slide 41.

[0064] See also Figure 4 and Figure 5 According to the above-mentioned embodiment of the invention, a liquid bag pressure plate 421 is provided on the receiving tank 42, and the liquid bag pressure plate can be movably provided on the receiving tank 42. One end of the liquid bag pressure plate 421 is hingedly matched with the receiving tank 42, and the other end of the liquid bag pressure plate 421 is snap-fitted with the receiving tank 42. The liquid bag pressure plate 421 can also be snap-fitted with the receiving tank 42 at both ends. When a new bagged liquid treatment agent 8 is placed in the receiving tank 42 and connected to the bagged treatment agent interface 5, the liquid treatment agent in the bag may not be able to flow out in time. The above-mentioned liquid bag pressure plate 421 is used to squeeze the bagged liquid treatment agent 8 to ensure that the liquid treatment agent in the bag can flow out smoothly.

[0065] See also Figure 2 、 Figure 3 as well as Figures 9 to 13According to the above-described embodiment of the invention, the intake and exhaust valve 9 includes a valve seat 91, a first air hole 95 provided at the upper end of the valve seat 91, a second air hole 96 provided at the lower end of the valve seat 91, an intake valve body 92 provided within the valve seat 91, an exhaust hole 923 provided on the intake valve body 92, and an exhaust valve body 93 provided at the exhaust hole 923. The intake valve body 92 is movably provided within the valve seat 91. An elastic member 94 is provided between the valve seat 91 and the intake valve body 92, forming an openable and closable intake gap between the intake valve body 92 and the valve seat 91, and an openable and closable exhaust gap between the exhaust valve body 93 and the intake valve body 92. The elastic member 94 is a spring. The valve seat 91 includes a cylinder 911, an annular top plate 912 provided at one end of the cylinder 911, and an annular bottom plate 913 provided at the other end of the cylinder 911; the annular top plate 912 is provided with the first air hole 95, and the annular bottom plate 913 is provided with the second air hole 96; the lower end of the annular bottom plate 913 is provided with a connecting pipe 914, the connecting pipe 914 is communicated with the second air hole 96, and the connecting pipe 914 is connected to the ventilation pipe 3. A sealing ring 97 is provided at the first air hole 95, and the sealing ring 97 includes a sealing tube 971, a first sealing ring 972 and a second sealing ring 973 provided at both ends of the sealing tube 971, and a positioning groove 974 is formed between the first sealing ring 972 and the second sealing ring 973; the positioning groove 974 is snap-fitted with the first air hole 95; the sealing tube 971 is located in the first air hole 95, the first sealing ring 972 is located on one side of the first air hole 95, and the second sealing ring 973 is located on the other side of the first air hole 95; the air intake valve body 92 includes a valve plate 921 and an annular valve body 922 provided on the valve plate 921, one end of the elastic member 94 presses against the bottom wall of the valve seat 91, the other end of the elastic member 94 presses against the air intake valve body 92, and the annular valve body 922 presses against the sealing ring 97; an openable and closable air intake gap is formed between the annular valve body 922 and the sealing ring 97. The exhaust hole 923 is provided with a connecting seat 924, which is connected to the inner wall of the exhaust hole 923 via a connecting rib 925. The connecting seat 924 is provided with a snap-in hole 926. The exhaust valve body 93 includes a flexible sealing cap 931, a connecting post 932 provided on the flexible sealing cap 931, and a stopper 933 provided on the connecting post 932. The connecting post 932 is inserted into the snap-in hole 926, and the snap-in hole 926 is engaged with the stopper 933. The flexible sealing cap 931 covers the exhaust hole 923, forming an openable and closable exhaust gap between the flexible sealing cap 931 and the intake valve body 92. The sealing ring and flexible sealing cap 931 are both made of rubber. The above-mentioned intake and exhaust valve 9 has a simple structure, is easy to assemble, has low production costs, and is highly reliable.When the air pressure at the second air hole 96 is relatively high, the flexible sealing cap 931 will be deformed under the action of the air pressure, so that the exhaust hole 923 is connected to the outside world, and the gas is discharged through the exhaust hole 923; when the negative pressure at the second air hole 96 is relatively high, the external air pressure will push the intake valve body 92 to move downward, and the intake valve body 92 will overcome the top thrust of the elastic part 94, so that an intake gap will be generated between the annular valve plate and the sealing ring 97, and the outside air will enter through the intake gap to balance the negative pressure at the second air hole 96.

[0066] See also Figure 1 、 Figure 2 and Figure 7 According to the above-described embodiment of the invention, the early warning liquid storage chamber 2 is provided with a liquid outlet 22, which is connected to the extraction device 1. The extraction device 1 is provided with a liquid extraction port 101 connected to the liquid outlet 22, and a liquid discharge port 102 for discharging the treatment agent. The liquid outlet 22 is connected to the liquid extraction port 101 via a liquid outlet pipe 7. The early warning liquid storage chamber 2 is connected to the extraction device 1 using the above-described structure and assembly method, which greatly simplifies the product structure and reduces production costs.

[0067] See also Figure 1 、 Figure 2 and Figure 7 According to the above-mentioned embodiment of the invention, the extraction device 1 is any one of a peristaltic pump, a piston pump, a gear pump, and a venturi tube negative pressure extraction device. The extraction device 1 in this embodiment is a peristaltic pump, which is provided with the liquid extraction port 101 and the liquid discharge port 102. The liquid outlet 22 on the warning liquid storage chamber 2 is connected to the liquid extraction port 101 on the peristaltic pump via the liquid outlet pipe 7. The liquid discharge port 102 discharges the liquid treatment agent into the electrical appliance. The peristaltic pump has a simple structure, low production cost, precise and easy-to-control dispensing volume, and good sealing performance.

[0068] See also Figure 8 According to the above-mentioned embodiment of the invention, the bagged treatment agent interface 5 includes a docking plug 51, a sealing ring 52 provided on the docking plug 51, and a locking mechanism provided on the docking plug 51. In this embodiment, the locking mechanism is a locking nut 53, which is rotatably mounted on the docking plug 51. Existing bagged liquid treatment agent 8 is equipped with a pipe joint 81 having external threads 82. When the pipe joint 121 is docked with the bagged treatment agent interface 5, the docking plug 51 is inserted into the pipe joint 81, the sealing ring 52 on the docking plug 51 is in close contact with the inner wall of the pipe joint 81, and the locking nut 53 engages with the threads 82 on the pipe joint 81.

[0069] According to an embodiment of the washing machine provided by the invention, it includes a body, a washing drum assembly arranged in the body, a clothing treatment agent dispensing device and a controller. The body, washing drum assembly and controller are relatively mature technologies in the existing technology and will not be described in detail here; the clothing treatment agent dispensing device in this embodiment is the bagged liquid treatment agent dispensing device described in the above embodiment. The washing machine of the present invention adopts the above-mentioned bagged liquid treatment agent dispensing device and has the following advantages compared with the prior art: 1. Bagged clothing treatment agents such as detergents, softeners, etc. can be directly connected to the dispensing device on the washing machine. Compared with the prior art, the problem of liquid drying up in the detergent storage tank causing blockage of the washing liquid pipeline and inconvenience in cleaning is avoided; 2. After the bagged disinfectant is used in the above-mentioned dispensing device, due to its good overall sealing performance, compared with the prior art, the corrosion of the washing machine parts caused by volatilization of the disinfectant stored in the washing machine for a long time is avoided; 3. The early warning liquid storage chamber in the above-mentioned dispensing device can store a certain amount of clothing treatment agent. When the bagged clothing treatment agent such as detergent connected to the dispensing device is used up and the user is prompted to replace it, the detergent stored in the early warning liquid storage chamber is still enough for the user to wash several times of clothes. Without affecting the normal use this time and next time, the user is given enough time to replace or purchase bagged detergent.

[0070] According to the dishwasher embodiment provided by the invention, it includes a body, a dishwashing component arranged in the body, a dishwashing detergent dispensing device and a controller. The body, dishwashing component and controller are relatively mature technologies in the existing technology and will not be described in detail here; the dishwashing detergent dispensing device in this embodiment is the bagged liquid treatment agent dispensing device described in the above embodiment. The dishwasher of the present invention adopts the above-mentioned bagged liquid treatment agent dispensing device and has the following advantages compared with the prior art: 1. The bagged dishwashing detergent can be directly connected to the dispensing device on the dishwasher. Compared with the prior art, the problem of the liquid in the dishwashing detergent storage tank drying up, causing the washing liquid pipeline to be blocked and the cleaning to be inconvenient, is avoided; 2. After the bagged disinfectant is used in the above-mentioned dispensing device, due to its good overall sealing performance, compared with the prior art, the disinfectant stored in the dishwasher for a long time is avoided from volatilizing and causing corrosion to the dishwasher parts; 3. The early warning liquid storage chamber in the above-mentioned dispensing device can store a certain amount of dishwashing detergent. When the bagged dishwashing detergent connected to the dispensing device is used up and the user is prompted to replace it, the detergent stored in the early warning liquid storage chamber is still enough for the user to wash dishes several times, and the user is given enough time to replace or purchase bagged detergent without affecting the normal use this time or next time.

[0071] Example 2

[0072] The structure of this embodiment is substantially the same as that of the first embodiment, except for the number of the early warning liquid storage chambers 2. Figure 9There are two early warning liquid storage chambers 2, and both early warning liquid storage chambers 2 are provided with a liquid inlet 21 and an exhaust device, and both liquid inlets 21 are connected to the bagged treatment agent interface 5; there are two extraction devices 11, and both early warning liquid storage chambers 2 are connected to the extraction device 1; or the extraction device 1 is a dual-line extraction device 1, and both early warning liquid storage chambers 2 are connected to the dual-line extraction device 1. The extraction device 1 in this embodiment is preferably a dual-line extraction device 1, such as a dual-line peristaltic pump, which is provided with two liquid extraction ports 101 and two liquid discharge ports 102. The structure and working principle of the dual-line peristaltic pump are relatively mature technologies in the existing technology and will not be described in detail here. Compared to the first embodiment, this embodiment has two early warning liquid storage chambers 2. For example, when the dispensing device is used in a washing machine, one early warning liquid storage chamber 2 can be connected to a bag of detergent, and the other early warning liquid storage chamber 2 can be connected to a bag of softener or disinfectant, making laundry more convenient and reasonable for the user. When the dispensing device is used in a dishwasher, one early warning liquid storage chamber 2 can be connected to a bag of detergent, and the other early warning liquid storage chamber 2 can be connected to a bag of rinse aid, making the dishwashing process more convenient and reasonable for the user.

[0073] Example 3

[0074] This embodiment has a structure roughly the same as that of the above-mentioned embodiment 1, except for the number of early warning liquid storage chambers 2. There are multiple early warning liquid storage chambers 2, each of which is provided with a liquid inlet 21 and an exhaust device, and each of the liquid inlets 21 is connected to a bagged treatment agent interface 5; there are multiple extraction devices 11, and each of the early warning liquid storage chambers 2 is connected to the extraction device 1. If the early warning liquid storage chamber is preferably three early warning liquid storage chambers 2, the three early warning liquid storage chambers 2 can be connected to bagged detergent, bagged softener, and bagged disinfectant, respectively. When this dispensing device is used for a double-drum washing machine or a single-pulsator plus single-drum washing machine, a larger number of early warning liquid storage chambers 2 are required, such as four early warning liquid storage chambers 2, or six early warning liquid storage chambers 2, etc.

[0075] Example 4

[0076] This embodiment has a substantially identical structure to the first embodiment described above, with the exception of the structure of the intake and exhaust device. The intake and exhaust device includes an intake valve and an exhaust valve disposed on the early warning liquid reservoir 2. The intake and exhaust device also includes an intake pipe and an exhaust pipe disposed on the early warning liquid reservoir 2. The intake valve is disposed on the intake pipe, and the exhaust valve is disposed on the exhaust pipe. Either the intake pipe or the exhaust pipe is disposed on the liquid inlet 21. In this embodiment, the intake pipe is preferably disposed on the liquid inlet 21. This intake and exhaust structure offers greater reliability compared to intake and exhaust valves that integrate intake and exhaust functions.

[0077] Example 5

[0078] This embodiment is roughly the same in structure as the above-mentioned embodiment 1, except that the sensor provided in the early warning liquid storage chamber 2 is different. The capacitive sensor is provided at the early warning liquid storage chamber 2. The capacitive sensor is provided on the outer wall of the early warning liquid storage chamber or near the early warning liquid storage chamber. In this embodiment, the capacitive sensor is preferably provided on the early warning liquid storage chamber. This embodiment monitors the liquid level in the early warning liquid storage chamber by a capacitive sensor. The capacitive sensor is a relatively mature technology in the prior art and will not be described in detail here. During specific use, the capacitive sensor detects the preset liquid level in the early warning liquid storage chamber 2. When there is liquid and when there is no liquid at this height position, the capacitive sensor feeds back different signals to the controller, thereby determining whether the liquid level in the early warning liquid storage chamber 2 has dropped.

[0079] While embodiments of the present invention have been shown and described, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that changes may be made to these embodiments without departing from the principles and spirit of the invention, the scope of which is defined in the appended claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A bagged liquid treatment agent delivery device, comprising a bagged treatment agent placement position and an extraction device, characterized in that: It also includes an early warning liquid storage chamber, which is provided with a liquid inlet and an air intake and exhaust device, and the liquid inlet is connected to the bagged treatment agent interface; the early warning liquid storage chamber is communicated with the extraction device; the air intake and exhaust device includes an air intake and exhaust valve provided on the early warning liquid storage chamber; the air intake and exhaust device also includes a ventilation pipe provided on the early warning liquid storage chamber, and the air intake and exhaust valve is provided on the ventilation pipe; the ventilation pipe is provided on the liquid inlet, and a liquid inlet branch is provided on the ventilation pipe, and the liquid inlet branch is connected to the bagged treatment agent interface through the liquid inlet pipe, and the inner diameter of the liquid inlet branch is smaller than the inner diameter of the ventilation pipe.

2. The bagged liquid treatment agent delivery device according to claim 1, characterized in that: At least one of the early warning liquid storage chamber, the bagged treatment agent placement position, and the air intake and exhaust device is provided with a sensor.

3. The bagged liquid treatment agent delivery device according to claim 2, characterized in that: The sensor is any one or more of a liquid level sensor, a deformation sensor, a gravity sensor, an air pressure sensor, an air flow sensor, a capacitance sensor, a photoelectric sensor, and an ultrasonic sensor.

4. The bagged liquid treatment agent delivery device according to claim 3, characterized in that: The early warning liquid storage chamber is provided with the liquid level sensor.

5. The bagged liquid treatment agent delivery device according to claim 4, characterized in that: The liquid level sensor includes a matching magnetic switch and a magnetic float; a longitudinal slide is provided in the early warning liquid storage chamber, the longitudinal slide is connected to the interior of the early warning liquid storage chamber, the magnetic float is movably arranged in the longitudinal slide, and the magnetic switch is fixed on the side wall of the early warning liquid storage chamber.

6. The bagged liquid treatment agent delivery device according to claim 3, characterized in that: The capacitive sensor is provided at the early warning liquid storage chamber.

7. The bagged liquid treatment agent delivery device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The level of the air intake and exhaust device is higher than the level of the top of the bagged treatment agent placement position.

8. The bagged liquid treatment agent delivery device according to claim 1, characterized in that: It also includes a bracket, and the extraction device and the early warning liquid storage chamber are both arranged on the bracket.

9. The bagged liquid treatment agent delivery device according to claim 8, characterized in that: The bagged treatment agent placement position is a receiving groove provided on the bracket.

10. The bagged liquid treatment agent delivery device according to claim 9, characterized in that: The accommodating groove is movably arranged on the bracket.

11. The bagged liquid treatment agent delivery device according to claim 9, characterized in that: The accommodating tank is provided with a liquid bag pressing plate, and the liquid bag pressing plate is movably arranged on the accommodating tank.

12. The bagged liquid treatment agent delivery device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The intake and exhaust valves include a valve seat, a first air hole provided at the upper end of the valve seat, a second air hole provided at the lower end of the valve seat, an intake valve body provided in the valve seat, an exhaust hole provided on the intake valve body, and an exhaust valve body provided at the exhaust hole; the intake valve body is movably provided in the valve seat, an elastic member is provided between the valve seat and the intake valve body, an openable and closable intake gap is formed between the intake valve body and the valve seat, and an openable and closable exhaust gap is formed between the exhaust valve body and the intake valve body.

13. The bagged liquid treatment agent delivery device according to any one of claims 1 to 12, characterized in that: The early warning liquid storage chamber is provided with a liquid outlet, and the liquid outlet is communicated with the extraction device.

14. The bagged liquid treatment agent delivery device according to any one of claims 1 to 12, characterized in that: The extraction device is any one of a peristaltic pump, a piston pump, a gear pump, and a venturi tube negative pressure extraction device.

15. The bagged liquid treatment agent delivery device according to any one of claims 1 to 12, characterized in that: The bagged treatment agent interface comprises a docking plug, a sealing ring arranged on the docking plug, and a locking mechanism arranged on the docking plug.

16. The bagged liquid treatment agent delivery device according to any one of claims 1 to 12, characterized in that: There are two early warning liquid storage chambers, and both of the early warning liquid storage chambers are provided with a liquid inlet and an exhaust device, and both of the liquid inlets are connected to the bagged treatment agent interface; there are two extraction devices, and both of the early warning liquid storage chambers are connected to the extraction devices; or the extraction device is a double-pipeline extraction device, and both of the early warning liquid storage chambers are connected to the double-pipeline extraction device.

17. The bagged liquid treatment agent delivery device according to any one of claims 1 to 12, characterized in that: There are multiple early warning liquid storage chambers, each of which is provided with a liquid inlet and an exhaust device, and each of the liquid inlets is connected to a bagged treatment agent interface; there are multiple extraction devices, each of which is connected to the extraction device.

18. A washing machine comprising a body, a washing drum assembly disposed within the body, a clothes treating agent dispensing device, and a controller, wherein: The clothing treatment agent dispensing device is the bagged liquid treatment agent dispensing device according to any one of claims 1 to 17.

19. A dishwasher comprising a body, a dishwashing assembly disposed in the body, a dishwashing agent dispensing device, and a controller, characterized in that: The dishwashing agent dispensing device is the bagged liquid treatment agent dispensing device according to any one of claims 1 to 17.

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