Flange, inner barrel flange assembly and washing machine

Abstract

The present invention belongs to the technical field of washing machines, and discloses a flange, an inner tub flange assembly, and a washing machine. The edge of the flange is partially recessed inward to form a mounting opening, and the mounting opening has a certain extension length in the circumferential direction of the flange; the mounting opening has two first edges located at both ends of the mounting opening, and a second edge connecting the two first edges; a first mounting portion protruding toward the inner side of the mounting opening is provided on the second edge. The inner tub flange assembly includes the flange, and a centrifugal drainage device is installed in the mounting opening on the flange, wherein a mounting bracket in the centrifugal drainage device is connected to the first mounting portion. In the present invention, by providing an inwardly recessed mounting opening on the flange for assembling the centrifugal drainage device, when used in a washing machine, the structure is compact and the space occupied is small, thus avoiding the situation where the device occupies too much space under the inner tub, and facilitating the design of capacity expansion for the inner tub.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention belongs to the technical field of washing machines, and in particular relates to a flange plate, an inner barrel flange assembly and a washing machine. Background Art

[0002] Most existing washing machines consist of interconnected inner and outer tubs. When the washing machine is operating, the outer tub holds wash water, while the inner tub holds laundry. Wash water can accumulate between the inner and outer tubs. As the washing machine operates over time, dirt and lint carried in the wash water become trapped in the space between the inner and outer tubs, making it difficult to clean. This leads to bacteria and odor buildup over years of use. Furthermore, the wash water between the inner and outer tubs is not actually used, resulting in waste. The need to leave sufficient space for the outer tub between the washing machine housing and the inner tub limits the size of the inner tub, and therefore the washing machine's capacity.

[0003] To address the aforementioned issues, a washing machine has been proposed that does not have a drain hole in the inner tub. This allows the inner tub to independently hold wash water during the wash cycle. Furthermore, the outer tub can be eliminated, with only a water collection device below the inner tub opening required, thus providing space for expanding the inner tub's capacity. However, existing drainage methods cannot achieve drainage from a hole-less inner tub.

[0004] Prior art has proposed a centrifugal drainage method for draining a non-perforated inner tub. For example, Chinese patent application number 201610767640.4 discloses a washing machine with no water between the inner and outer tubs, comprising: an outer tub; an inner tub rotatably disposed within the outer tub; during the washing / rinsing process, the inner tub is filled with water, leaving no water between the inner and outer tubs; a drainage hole is defined at the bottom of the inner tub, and a drainage seal is provided on the outer wall of the bottom of the inner tub corresponding to the drainage hole; during washing / rinsing, the drainage seal keeps the drainage hole closed, and during dehydration, the drainage seal opens the drainage hole under the action of centrifugal force. However, in this solution, the addition of a drainage seal below the inner tub occupies space at the bottom of the inner tub, hindering the expansion of the inner tub.

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

[0006] The technical problem to be solved by the present invention is to overcome the shortcomings of the existing technology and provide a flange, an inner barrel flange assembly and a washing machine. The flange is provided with an inward-concave mounting opening and is formed with a first mounting portion protruding toward the inner side of the mounting opening. The centrifugal drainage device can be arranged in the mounting opening and connected to the flange through the first mounting portion to form an integral structure of the inner barrel flange assembly, which is then assembled into the washing machine. The structure is compact and occupies little space.

[0007] In order to solve the above technical problems, the basic concept of the technical solution adopted by the present invention is:

[0008] A flange, wherein the edge of the flange is partially recessed inward to form a mounting opening, and the mounting opening has a certain extension length in the circumferential direction of the flange;

[0009] The installation opening has two first edges located at both ends of the installation opening in its extending direction, and a second edge connecting the two first edges; a first installation portion protruding toward the inner side of the installation opening is provided on the second edge.

[0010] Furthermore, the first mounting portion is formed by extending a certain length from the second edge toward the outer periphery of the flange;

[0011] Preferably, a first mounting hole is provided on the first mounting portion;

[0012] More preferably, at least two first mounting holes are provided along the extending direction of the first mounting portion.

[0013] Furthermore, two first mounting portions are symmetrically arranged in the mounting opening, and the extension directions of the two first mounting portions are parallel to each other.

[0014] Furthermore, the two first edges are parallel to the extension direction of the first mounting portion.

[0015] Furthermore, the second edge is partially recessed inward to form a drainage avoidance opening, and the first mounting portion is provided on the second edge in an area outside the drainage avoidance opening;

[0016] Preferably, two first mounting portions are provided, respectively located on both sides of the drainage avoidance opening.

[0017] Furthermore, the central area of ​​the lower surface of the flange is concave, and the central area is connected to the peripheral area of ​​the lower surface of the flange via an inclined transition surface;

[0018] The second edge of the mounting opening is located inside the central area, and the end of the first edge away from the outer periphery of the flange is located in the outer peripheral area; the first edge and the second edge are connected by a rounded corner;

[0019] The lower surface of the flange outside the fillet is flush with the central area of ​​the lower surface of the flange, and a vertical section is formed on the extension line of the first edge extending away from the outer periphery of the flange;

[0020] Preferably, second mounting portions are respectively formed on the outer sides of the two first edges of the mounting opening, and second mounting holes are provided on the second mounting portions.

[0021] Another object of the present invention is to provide an inner barrel flange assembly, comprising the flange plate described above, wherein a centrifugal drainage device is installed in the mounting opening of the flange plate, and the centrifugal drainage device comprises:

[0022] A mounting bracket connected to the first mounting portion;

[0023] a valve plug mounted on the mounting bracket so as to be relatively movable;

[0024] The centrifugal slider slides relative to the flange under the action of centrifugal force, driving the valve plug to move relative to the mounting bracket.

[0025] Furthermore, the centrifugal slider is a plate-shaped structure perpendicular to the central axis of the flange, and is matched and installed in the installation opening.

[0026] Furthermore, a concave notch is provided on the edge of the centrifugal slider facing the central axis of the flange. When the centrifugal slider is located near the central axis of the flange, the mounting bracket matches the first mounting portion of the flange and is arranged in the notch.

[0027] Another object of the present invention is to provide a washing machine comprising an inner tub, wherein the inner tub is provided with a drain outlet, and further comprising the inner tub flange assembly described above, wherein the flange is coaxially arranged with the bottom of the inner tub and fixedly mounted on the bottom of the inner tub;

[0028] During the washing / rinsing process, the valve plug blocks the drain outlet, allowing the inner barrel to independently hold water during the washing / rinsing process; during the drainage process, the centrifugal slider slides radially outward along the flange under the action of centrifugal force, driving the valve plug to move and open the drain outlet for drainage.

[0029] After adopting the above technical solution, the present invention has the following beneficial effects compared with the prior art.

[0030] In the present invention, a partially recessed flange edge forms a mounting opening, providing space for installing a centrifugal drain device. A first mounting portion protruding inward from the mounting opening is provided for connecting with the centrifugal drain device, thereby securing the centrifugal drain device to the flange. The flange and centrifugal drain device can be preassembled to form an inner tub flange assembly, which can then be installed integrally in the washing machine. This results in a compact structure, minimal space, and simple assembly.

[0031] In the washing machine of the present invention, the valve plug in the centrifugal drain device blocks the drain opening during the wash / rinse cycle, forming a closed inner drum, eliminating the need for an outer drum structure. Furthermore, the centrifugal drain device is integrated into the flange plate, forming a monolithic inner drum flange assembly. This compact structure reduces the space occupied by the inner drum's surrounding structures, facilitating expansion of the inner drum's capacity.

[0032] The specific embodiments of the present invention will be described in further detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0033] The accompanying drawings are part of the present invention and are used to provide a further understanding of the present invention. The exemplary embodiments of the present invention and their descriptions are used to explain the present invention, but do not constitute an undue limitation of the present invention. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments. For those of ordinary skill in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without inventive effort. In the accompanying drawings:

[0034] Figure 1 This is a schematic structural diagram of a flange according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0035] Figure 2 is a bottom view of the flange in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0036] Figure 3 1 is a schematic diagram of the bottom of the inner tub of a washing machine in an embodiment of the present invention with the drain outlet closed;

[0037] Figure 4 This invention Figure 3 A magnified schematic diagram of point A in the middle;

[0038] Figure 5 is a cross-sectional view of the bottom of the inner tub of the washing machine in a state where the drain outlet is closed according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0039] Figure 6 This invention Figure 5 A magnified schematic diagram of point B in the middle;

[0040] Figure 7 1 is a schematic diagram of the bottom of the inner drum of a washing machine in an embodiment of the present invention with the drain port open;

[0041] Figure 8 is a cross-sectional view of the bottom of the inner tub of a washing machine in an embodiment of the present invention with the drain port open;

[0042] Figure 9 This invention Figure 8 The enlarged schematic diagram of point C in the middle;

[0043] Figure 10 is an exploded view of the bottom of the inner tub of a washing machine according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0044] Figure 11 is a schematic structural diagram of a mounting bracket according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0045] Figure 12 is a schematic diagram of the mounting bracket from another perspective in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0046] Figure 132 is a schematic structural diagram of a centrifugal slider in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0047] Figure 14 2 is a schematic structural diagram of two slideways in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0048] In the figure: 100, barrel bottom; 101, drain outlet; 200, valve plug; 201, sealing cover; 202, support rod; 203, sealing gasket; 300, centrifugal slider; 310, centrifugal block body; 311, notch; 320, sliding member; 321, sliding portion; 322, first stop portion; 323, limiting boss; 324, first covering portion; 325, second covering portion; 326, clamping groove; 410, reversing rod; 420, connecting rod; 500, mounting bracket; 510, base; 511, fixing portion; 512, transition portion; 520, connecting frame; 521, guide portion; 5211, avoidance groove; 522, connecting part; 5221, groove; 600, slide; 601, guide groove; 602, second stop part; 603, slide fixing part; 604, supporting part; 610, elastic member; 700, flange; 710, mounting opening; 711, first edge; 712, second edge; 713, fillet; 720, first mounting part; 721, first mounting hole; 730, drainage avoidance opening; 740, second mounting part; 741, second mounting hole; 751, central area; 752, peripheral area; 753, transition surface; 754, vertical section.

[0049] It should be noted that these drawings and textual descriptions are not intended to limit the conceptual scope of the present invention in any way, but rather to illustrate the concept of the present invention for those skilled in the art by referring to specific embodiments. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0050] In order to make the purpose, technical solutions and advantages of the embodiments of the present invention clearer, the technical solutions in the embodiments will be clearly and completely described below in conjunction with the drawings in the embodiments of the present invention. The following embodiments are used to illustrate the present invention but are not used to limit the scope of the present invention.

[0051] In the description of the present invention, it should be noted that the terms "up", "down", "left", "right", "vertical", "inside", "outside", etc., indicating directions or positional relationships, are based on the directions or positional relationships shown in the accompanying drawings. They are only for the convenience of describing the present invention and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific direction, be constructed and operated in a specific direction. Therefore, they cannot be understood as limiting the present invention.

[0052] In the description of the present invention, it should be noted that, unless otherwise specified or limited, the terms "mounted," "connected," and "connected" should be understood broadly. For example, they may refer to fixed connections, detachable connections, or integral connections; they may refer to direct connections or indirect connections through an intermediary. Those skilled in the art will understand the specific meanings of the above terms in the present invention based on the specific circumstances.

[0053] Example 1

[0054] like Figures 1 to 13 As shown, this embodiment provides a flange 700 and an inner tub flange assembly for a washing machine.

[0055] In this embodiment, the edge of the flange 700 is partially recessed inward to form a mounting opening 710. The mounting opening 710 extends a certain length in the circumferential direction of the flange 700. The mounting opening 710 has two first edges 711 at both ends of the mounting opening 710, and a second edge 712 connecting the two first edges 711. The second edge 712 is provided with a first mounting portion 720 that protrudes inward from the mounting opening 710.

[0056] The inner barrel flange assembly includes the flange 700, and a centrifugal drainage device is installed in the mounting opening 710 on the flange 700. The centrifugal drainage device specifically includes:

[0057] The mounting bracket 500 is connected to the first mounting portion 720;

[0058] The valve plug 200 is mounted on the mounting bracket 500 so as to be relatively movable;

[0059] The centrifugal slider 300 slides relative to the flange 700 under the action of centrifugal force, driving the valve plug 200 to move relative to the mounting bracket 500.

[0060] In the above solution, flange 700 forms a mounting opening 710 through a partially recessed edge, providing space for the centrifugal drain device. Furthermore, a first mounting portion 720 protruding from the inside of mounting opening 710 connects to the mounting bracket 500 within the centrifugal drain device, securing the centrifugal drain device to flange 700. The centrifugal drain device is fully integrated with flange 700, resulting in a compact structure and minimal space. The two can be pre-assembled to form the inner drum flange assembly, which can then be installed in the washing machine as a whole, simplifying the assembly process.

[0061] Specifically, the first mounting portion 720 described in this embodiment is formed by extending a certain length from the second edge 712 toward the outer periphery of the flange 700 .

[0062] Specifically, the first mounting portion 720 is provided with a first mounting hole 721. Preferably, at least two first mounting holes 721 are provided along the extension direction of the first mounting portion 720. During assembly, screws can be passed through the first mounting holes 721 to connect the first mounting portion 720 to the corresponding structure of the mounting bracket 500, thereby securing the centrifugal drainage device.

[0063] In a further solution of this embodiment, two first mounting portions 720 are symmetrically provided in the mounting opening 710 , and the extension directions of the two first mounting portions 720 are parallel to each other.

[0064] Furthermore, the two first edges 711 are parallel to the extending direction of the first mounting portion 720 .

[0065] In the centrifugal drainage device, the centrifugal slider 300 is a plate-shaped structure perpendicular to the central axis of the flange 700 and is matched and installed in the installation opening 710.

[0066] In the above solution, under the action of centrifugal force, the centrifugal slider 300 slides radially relative to the flange 700, and the relative positions of the mounting bracket 500 and the flange 700 remain fixed, that is, the centrifugal slider 300 and the mounting bracket 500 also slide relative to each other in the same direction. The shape of the mounting opening 710 matches the outer profile of the centrifugal slider 300, and the extension directions of the first mounting portion 720 and the first edge 711 are both parallel to the sliding direction of the centrifugal slider 300. During the sliding process of the centrifugal slider 300, the gap between its edge and the first edge 711 of the mounting opening 710, as well as the gap between the first mounting portion 720 and the edge of the mounting bracket 500, remains stable, thus avoiding the instability of the sliding path of the centrifugal slider 300 and achieving a better effect in driving the movement of the valve plug 200.

[0067] In a further solution of this embodiment, the second edge 712 is partially recessed inward to form a drainage avoidance opening 730 , and the first mounting portion 720 is disposed on the second edge 712 in an area outside the drainage avoidance opening 730 .

[0068] Preferably, the two first mounting portions 720 are respectively located on both sides of the drainage avoidance opening 730 .

[0069] When the inner barrel flange assembly is used in a washing machine, the drainage avoidance port 730 is located below the drainage port 101 on the inner barrel, thereby avoiding the drainage water flow. The first mounting portion 720 is set in an area outside the drainage avoidance port 730 to prevent obstruction of the drainage water flow and affect the drainage efficiency of the washing machine.

[0070] Specifically, the mounting bracket 500 includes a fixing portion 511 connected to the first mounting portion 720 and a guide portion 521 for mounting the valve plug 200, the two being connected via a connecting portion 522. The guide portion 521 is located in the area corresponding to the drainage avoidance opening 730, and the fixing portions 511 include two fixing portions, one on each side of the guide portion 521.

[0071] Since the guide portion 521 is suspended relative to the fixing portion 511, the first mounting portion 720 and the fixing portion 511 are both provided in pairs, preferably symmetrically relative to the guide portion 521, so that both sides of the guide portion 521 are fixed simultaneously, which has a better fixing effect on the mounting bracket 500 and a more solid structure.

[0072] Furthermore, the two fixing portions 511 of the mounting bracket 500 are connected by a transition portion 512, and the ends of the connecting portion 522 are respectively connected to the transition portion 512 and the guide portion 521. The guide portion 521 has a vertically extending hollow slideway. The transition portion 512 has an arcuate edge on the side facing the guide portion 521, with the center of the arcuate edge located on the axis of the hollow slideway. The radius of the arcuate edge is larger than the radius of the drain outlet 101, allowing the transition portion 512 to avoid the area below the drain outlet 101, preventing the transition portion 512 from blocking the drainage flow and affecting drainage efficiency.

[0073] In a further embodiment of this embodiment, the upper surface of the transition portion 512 is higher than the upper surface of the fixing portion 511. The fixing portion 511 is connected to the lower surface of the first mounting portion 720 on the flange 700, with a space between the two first mounting portions 720. The upper surface of the transition portion 512 is higher than the upper surface of the fixing portion 511, thereby filling the space between the two first mounting portions 720.

[0074] An inward-concave notch 311 is provided on the edge of the centrifugal slider 300 facing the central axis of the flange 700 . When the centrifugal slider 300 is located near the central axis of the flange 700 , the mounting bracket 500 matches the first mounting portion 720 of the flange 700 and is disposed in the notch 311 .

[0075] In the above solution, after the mounting bracket 500 is connected and fixed to the first mounting portion 720, a protrusion of a certain size is formed on the inside of the mounting opening 710. When not subjected to centrifugal force, the centrifugal slider 300 is entirely located inside the mounting opening 710, with its edge facing the central axis of the flange 700 close to the second edge 712 of the mounting opening 710. The provision of the notch 311 can avoid the protrusion formed by the mounting bracket 500 and the first mounting portion 720 on the inside of the mounting opening 710, thereby allowing the centrifugal slider 300 to be installed on a plane flush with the flange 700, without having to be installed above or below the flange 700, thereby reducing the vertical height of the inner barrel flange assembly.

[0076] For a pulsator washing machine, due to the limitation of its maximum achievable speed, in order to provide sufficient centrifugal force through the centrifugal slider 300 to open the drain port 101, the mass of the centrifugal slider 300 needs to be increased, that is, a larger centrifugal slider 300 is required. In this embodiment, the mounting opening 710 extends along the circumference of the flange 700 for a certain length. The centrifugal slider 300 is a flat plate with an outer profile that matches the mounting opening 710. By increasing the mounting opening 710 and the extension length of the centrifugal slider 300 along the circumference of the flange 700, the mass of the centrifugal slider 300 can be effectively increased.

[0077] In a further solution of this embodiment, the central area 751 of the lower surface of the flange 700 is concave, and the central area 751 and the peripheral area 752 of the lower surface of the flange 700 are connected by an inclined transition surface 753.

[0078] The second edge 712 of the mounting opening 710 is located inside the central region 751 , and the end of the first edge 711 away from the periphery of the flange 700 is located inside the peripheral region 752 . The first edge 711 and the second edge 712 are connected by a rounded corner 713 .

[0079] The lower surface of the flange 700 outside the fillet 713 is flush with the central area 751 of the lower surface of the flange 700 , and a vertical section 754 is formed on the extension line of the first edge 711 extending away from the periphery of the flange 700 .

[0080] In this embodiment, second mounting portions 740 are formed on the outer sides of the two first edges 711 of the mounting opening 710, and second mounting holes 741 are provided on the second mounting portions 740. The second mounting portions 740 are used to mount the slideway 600, which guides the centrifugal slider 300. Specifically, the second mounting portions 740 and the slideway 600 are connected by screws passing through the second mounting holes 741. The centrifugal slider 300 is slidably mounted on the slideway 600, thereby enabling more stable radial sliding along the flange 700.

[0081] This embodiment also provides a washing machine, comprising an inner tub and the inner tub flange assembly described above, wherein the inner tub is provided with a drain port 101, and a flange 700 is coaxially arranged with and fixedly mounted on the inner tub bottom 100.

[0082] During the washing / rinsing process, the valve plug 200 blocks the drain outlet 101, allowing the inner barrel to independently hold water during the washing / rinsing process; during the drainage process, the centrifugal slider 300 slides radially outward along the flange 700 under the action of centrifugal force, driving the valve plug 200 to move and open the drain outlet 101 for drainage.

[0083] In this embodiment, the inner tub wall is not provided with a dewatering hole, at least in an area below the maximum water level of the washing machine. During the washing / rinsing process, the valve plug 200 in the centrifugal drainage device blocks the drain port 101, forming a closed inner tub, thereby allowing the inner tub to independently hold water during the washing / rinsing process. The washing machine may not have an outer tub, but instead may have a water collection device located below the inner tub, with the upper edge of the water collection device lower than the opening of the inner tub, thereby expanding the capacity of the inner tub.

[0084] The centrifugal drainage device is integrated as a whole on the flange plate 700 to form an integrated inner barrel flange assembly, which can be directly installed on the barrel bottom 100 of the inner barrel. The valve plug 200 corresponds to the position of the drain outlet 101, and the opening and blocking of the drain outlet 101 can be controlled.

[0085] During the washing / rinsing process, the inner tub is in a free state, and the valve plug 200 blocks the drain port 101. During drainage, the inner tub is controlled to rotate at a certain speed, thereby generating sufficient centrifugal force to slide the centrifugal slider 300. Under the action of centrifugal force, the centrifugal slider 300 slides radially outward along the flange 700, driving the valve plug 200 to open the drain port 101 and realize the drainage function.

[0086] In this embodiment of the washing machine, the inner tub can independently hold water during the wash / rinse cycle. An inner tub flange assembly with a centrifugal drain device is installed beneath the inner tub to facilitate drainage. A mounting opening 710 is provided on the flange 700 to provide space for the centrifugal drain device. This is connected to the mounting bracket 500 within the centrifugal drain device via a first mounting portion 720, integrating the centrifugal drain device with the flange 700. This creates a compact overall structure and minimizes space usage, saving space beneath the inner tub and facilitating expansion of the inner tub.

[0087] Example 2

[0088] like Figures 3 to 12 As shown, this embodiment is a further limitation of the above-mentioned embodiment 1, in which the centrifugal drainage device further includes a reversing transmission mechanism connecting the centrifugal slider 300 and the valve plug 200. The centrifugal slider 300 drives the valve plug 200 to move via the reversing transmission mechanism, which can convert the sliding of the centrifugal slider 300 in one direction into driving the valve plug 200 to move in the other direction.

[0089] Specifically, if Figures 3 to 9 As shown, when the centrifugal slider 300 slides horizontally along the radial direction of the flange 700, the valve plug 200 moves vertically relative to the mounting bracket 500 in a direction parallel to the central axis of the flange 700 to open / close the drain port 101. The drain port 101 is set on the bottom 100 of the inner barrel. When the drain port 101 is opened, the water is directly discharged downward, which has a higher drainage efficiency.

[0090] In the centrifugal drainage device of this embodiment, the mounting bracket 500 specifically includes:

[0091] Base 510, connected to flange 700;

[0092] The connecting frame 520 is used to connect the base 510 and the valve plug 200 .

[0093] The vertical projection of the extending direction of the connecting frame 520 on the plane where the flange 700 is located coincides with the vertical projection of the extending direction of the reversing transmission mechanism on the plane where the flange 700 is located.

[0094] In the above embodiment, when the inner tub flange assembly is installed on the inner tub bottom 100, the connecting bracket 520 of the mounting bracket 500 and the reversing transmission mechanism are located below the drain outlet 101. The structural design of the centrifugal drain device ensures that the extension directions of the connecting bracket 520 and the reversing transmission mechanism coincide with the plane of the flange 700, i.e., their vertical projections on the horizontal plane in the figure. This reduces the area occupied below the drain outlet 101. This prevents the drain outlet 101 from being blocked by a large area when the washing machine is draining, thereby ensuring high drainage efficiency.

[0095] On the other hand, washing machine drainage can carry a large amount of lint, which can become caught and remain anywhere along the drain flow. The horizontal overlap of the connecting bracket 520 and the reversing drive mechanism reduces the area exposed to the drain flow, thereby minimizing the chance of lint catching and remaining. This, in turn, prevents lint from decreasing drainage efficiency or obstructing the centrifugal drain mechanism from closing the inner tub, potentially causing leakage.

[0096] The reversing transmission mechanism specifically includes:

[0097] The connecting rod 420 has a left end connected to the centrifugal slider 300 and moves with the centrifugal slider 300;

[0098] One end of the reversing rod 410 is hinged to the right end of the connecting rod 420, and moves in the same direction as the centrifugal slider 300 under the drive of the connecting rod 420. The other end of the reversing rod 410 is hinged to the valve plug 200, driving the valve plug 200 to move in the other direction.

[0099] The vertical projection of the extending direction of the connecting frame 520 on the plane where the flange 700 is located coincides with the vertical projection of the extending direction of the connecting rod 420 on the plane where the flange 700 is located.

[0100] In a preferred embodiment of this embodiment, the connecting rod 420 extends parallel to the direction in which the centrifugal slider 300 slides. That is, both the connecting rod 420 and the connecting bracket 520 extend radially along the inner barrel bottom 100. This ensures that the force applied by the connecting rod 420 to the reversing rod 410 has no circumferential component along the barrel bottom 100. This reduces the horizontal component of the force acting on the valve plug 200 and the frictional resistance experienced by the valve plug 200 when it moves relative to the mounting bracket 500.

[0101] In this embodiment, the centrifugal slider 300 slides horizontally to the left under the action of centrifugal force, driving one end of the reversing rod 410 to move leftward synchronously with the centrifugal slider 300 via the connecting rod 420. The other end of the reversing rod 410 swings about its hinged end to the connecting rod 420, thereby driving the valve plug 200 to move vertically upward in the mounting bracket 500.

[0102] In detail, the right end of the connecting rod 420 has a connecting groove, and the lower end of the reversing rod 410 is arranged in the connecting groove and is hinged to the connecting rod 420.

[0103] In a further solution of this embodiment, the connecting frame 520 includes:

[0104] The guide portion 521 is used for installing the valve plug 200;

[0105] The connecting portion 522 is used to connect the base 510 and the guiding portion 521 .

[0106] The vertical projection of the extending direction of the connecting portion 522 on the plane where the flange 700 is located coincides with the vertical projection of the extending direction of the connecting rod 420 on the plane where the flange 700 is located.

[0107] Furthermore, the connecting rod 420 extends radially from the centrifugal slider 300 inward along the barrel bottom 100 to a hinged connection with the reversing rod 410. This allows the distance between the centrifugal slider 300 and the central axis of the flange 700 to be greater than the distance between the valve plug 200 and the central axis, i.e., the centrifugal slider 300 has a larger rotation radius. In this way, the centrifugal slider 300 can provide greater centrifugal force.

[0108] In this embodiment, the connecting portion 522 is arranged above the connecting rod 420, and the two extend in the same direction, thereby forming an upper and lower overlapping structure to reduce obstruction to the drain outlet 101 when installed in the washing machine, and the structure is simple.

[0109] In a preferred solution of this embodiment, the upper surface of the connecting portion 522 is an inwardly concave curved surface whose height gradually decreases from both ends to the middle.

[0110] In this embodiment, the valve stopper 200 seals the drain opening 101 downward from the inner tub. To achieve a better seal, a portion of the tub bottom 100 located on the outer periphery of the drain opening 101 protrudes downward from the tub bottom 100 to engage with the valve stopper 200. The guide portion 521 is positioned corresponding to the drain opening 101. The base 510, used to secure the mounting bracket 500, is positioned on the outer periphery of the drain opening 101. The connecting portion 522 extends from the outer periphery of the drain opening 101 to near the center of the drain opening 101, with the middle region of the connecting portion 522 passing through the downwardly protruding region of the tub bottom 100. The upper surface of the connecting portion 522 is designed as a concave curved surface, gradually decreasing in height from its ends to its center. This effectively avoids the downwardly protruding region of the tub bottom 100, allowing the mounting bracket 500 to be installed closer to the tub bottom 100. This ensures that the flange 700 is as close as possible to the lower surface of the inner tub bottom 100, resulting in a more compact structure.

[0111] In a further embodiment of this embodiment, a groove 5221 extending in the same direction as the connecting rod 420 is provided on the lower surface of the connecting portion 522, and the connecting rod 420 is partially disposed in the groove 5221. This arrangement allows the connecting portion 522 to be closer to the connecting rod 420 in the vertical direction, making the overall structure of the centrifugal drainage device more compact, making its vertical height as close as possible to the thickness of the flange 700, and reducing its volume protruding from the lower surface of the flange 700. This, in turn, reduces the space occupied below the inner tub when used in a washing machine, facilitating expansion of the inner tub.

[0112] In this embodiment, the base 510 specifically includes:

[0113] Two fixing parts 511 are provided at intervals, located on both sides of the guide part 521, and connected to the flange 700;

[0114] The transition portion 512 is used to connect the two fixing portions 511 .

[0115] Two ends of the connecting portion 522 are connected to the transition portion 512 and the guiding portion 521 respectively.

[0116] The valve plug 200 in this embodiment specifically includes a sealing cover 201 and a support rod 202. The sealing cover 201 is used to block / open the drain port 101, and the two ends of the support rod 202 are respectively connected to the sealing cover 201 and the reversing rod 410. Specifically, the lower end of the support rod 202 is slidably disposed within the hollow slideway of the guide portion 521 and is hingedly connected to the reversing rod 410. The upper end of the support rod 202 extends out of the guide portion 521 and is fixedly connected to the sealing cover 201.

[0117] Furthermore, the right side of the guide portion 521 has a vertically extending escape groove 5211 with an open lower end. When the reversing rod 410 swings to drive the support rod 202, the lower half of the reversing rod 410 passes through the escape groove 5211 and extends out of the guide portion 521 when the sealing cover 201 seals the drain outlet 101. The lower end of the support rod 202 has an open mounting groove, and the upper end of the reversing rod 410 is inserted into the mounting groove and hingedly connected to the support rod 202.

[0118] Preferably, a sealing gasket 203 is fixedly provided on the lower side of the outer periphery of the sealing cover 201. When the valve plug 200 blocks the drain outlet 101, the sealing gasket 203 is sealed and fitted with the outer periphery of the drain outlet 101 on the inner side of the barrel bottom 100, thereby achieving a better sealing effect.

[0119] Because sealing cover 201 is located inside the inner tub, it blocks drain port 101 from top to bottom. When the inner tub is filled with water, water pressure acts on the upper surface of sealing cover 201 to provide auxiliary sealing force, improving the sealing effect. Guide portion 521 limits the horizontal movement of support rod 202, thereby effectively converting the horizontal movement of centrifugal slider 300 into vertical movement of valve plug 200 via reversing rod 410.

[0120] In this embodiment, the centrifugal drain device is designed so that the connecting bracket 520 of the mounting bracket 500 and the reversing transmission mechanism extend in the same plane as the flange 700. Specifically, the connecting portion 522 and the connecting rod 420 of the reversing transmission mechanism extend in the same plane as the flange 700. This reduces the area below the drain outlet 101 obstructed by the centrifugal drain device, thereby reducing the centrifugal drain device's obstruction of the drain flow during the washing machine's drainage process and improving drainage efficiency. Furthermore, the connecting portion 522 overlaps the connecting rod 420, reducing the area exposed to the drain flow and reducing the chance of lint being caught, thereby preventing the lint from affecting the centrifugal drain device's performance.

[0121] Example 3

[0122] like Figures 1 to 14 As shown, this embodiment is a further limitation of the above-mentioned embodiment one or two, and the centrifugal drainage device also includes an elastic member 610 with a certain length, and the elastic member 610 applies a reset force to the centrifugal slider 300 in the opposite direction of the sliding direction of the centrifugal slider 300 under the action of centrifugal force.

[0123] The inner drum flange assembly is used in a washing machine. During drainage, the inner drum is controlled to rotate at a certain speed. Centrifugal force causes the centrifugal slider 300 to slide radially outward along the flange 700, driving the valve plug 200 via the reversing transmission mechanism to open the drain port 101. As the inner drum speed decreases until it stops, the centrifugal force acting on the centrifugal slider 300 gradually decreases. When the centrifugal force acting on the centrifugal slider 300 is less than the restoring force generated by the elastic member 610, the centrifugal slider 300, under the action of the restoring force, slides toward the center of the flange 700, driving the valve plug 200 via the reversing transmission mechanism to seal the drain port 101, thereby achieving automatic resetting of the centrifugal drainage device.

[0124] In this embodiment, the length direction of the elastic member 610 is parallel to the sliding direction of the centrifugal slider 300 , and the outer periphery of the elastic member 610 is completely covered by the centrifugal slider 300 and the second mounting portion 740 on the flange 700 .

[0125] In the above solution, the outer periphery of the elastic member 610 used to apply the reset force to the centrifugal slider 300 is completely covered, which can protect the elastic member 610 from easily coming into contact with the washing machine's drainage system. For elastic members 610 made of metal, this can prevent the elastic member 610 from rusting due to long-term exposure to humid environments, resulting in its elastic failure and inability to provide a reset force. On the other hand, it can also prevent the elastic member 610 from being hooked on wire scraps, resulting in the elastic member 610 being unable to effectively deform and thus causing elastic failure. Because the above structure protects the elastic member 610 inside the centrifugal drainage device from easily losing its elasticity, it extends the service life of the centrifugal drainage device.

[0126] The elastic member 610 in this embodiment is a spring, which can generate elastic force when compressed as the restoring force of the centrifugal slider 300. The elastic member 610 can also be any elastic device that can provide elastic force when compressed.

[0127] In another solution of this embodiment, a covering structure that can cover the outer peripheral side of the elastic member can also be formed separately by the centrifugal slider or the second mounting portion on the flange, thereby achieving the same effect.

[0128] In a specific solution of this embodiment, the centrifugal slider 300 has a surface opposite to and spaced from the second mounting portion 740 , and the elastic member 610 is installed between the surfaces opposite to the centrifugal slider 300 and the second mounting portion 740 .

[0129] A first covering portion 324 and a second covering portion 325 are formed on the centrifugal slider 300 and / or the second mounting portion 740. The first covering portion 324 is located above the elastic member 610, and the second covering portion 325 is located below the elastic member 610. The first covering portion 324, the second covering portion 325, and the opposing surface of the centrifugal slider 300 and the second mounting portion 740 completely cover the outer circumference of the elastic member 610.

[0130] In detail, the first covering portion 324 and the second covering portion 325 can be entirely formed by the centrifugal slider 300 , or entirely formed by the second mounting portion 740 , or one of the first covering portion 324 and the second covering portion 325 can be formed by the centrifugal slider 300 and the other can be formed by the second mounting portion 740 .

[0131] In a further embodiment of this embodiment, the surface of the centrifugal slider 300 facing the second mounting portion 740 partially protrudes toward the second mounting portion 740, forming a first covering portion 324 and a second covering portion 325. An open clamping groove 326 is formed between the first covering portion 324 and the second covering portion 325. The elastic member 610 is positioned within the clamping groove 326, and the opening of the clamping groove 326 is blocked by the second mounting portion 740.

[0132] A first covering portion 324 and a second covering portion 325 are formed on the centrifugal slider 300, which cooperate with the second mounting portion 740 on the flange 700, so that the outer peripheral side of the elastic member 610 is completely covered by the inner surface of the clamping groove 326 and the surface of the second mounting portion 740 facing the centrifugal slider 300. The structure is simple and easy to implement.

[0133] Preferably, the depth of the clamping groove 326 gradually increases from the sides near the first covering portion 324 and the second covering portion 325 toward the middle, forming a concave curved surface connecting the first covering portion 324 and the second covering portion 325. In this embodiment, a cylindrical spring is used as the elastic member 610. The concave curved surface formed in the clamping groove 326 can better fit the outer circumference of the elastic member 610, thereby stably retaining the elastic member 610 in the clamping groove 326 and preventing displacement.

[0134] In a further solution of this embodiment, the second mounting portion 740 on the flange 700 is at least partially located inside the clamping groove 326 .

[0135] Inserting the edge of the second mounting portion 740 into the clamping groove 326 ensures that the second mounting portion 740 blocks the opening of the clamping groove 326. This prevents the elastic member 610 from being exposed to the outside due to misalignment between the second mounting portion 740 and the centrifugal slider 300 during sliding. Furthermore, the clamping groove 326 extends parallel to the sliding direction of the centrifugal slider 300. The edge of the second mounting portion 740 inserted into the clamping groove 326 assists in guiding the centrifugal slider 300 in conjunction with the slideway 600 during sliding, further ensuring a stable sliding path for the centrifugal slider 300.

[0136] In a further embodiment of the present invention, the centrifugal slider 300 is provided with a first stop portion 322, and the slideway 600 has a second stop portion 602 spaced apart from and opposite to the first stop portion 322. Both ends of the elastic member 610 respectively abut against the opposing surfaces of the first stop portion 322 and the second stop portion 602.

[0137] By designing the spacing between the first stop portion 322 and the second stop portion 602, as well as the initial length of the elastic member 610, the elastic member 610 exerts a certain pre-compression force when the valve plug 200 is in a position to block the drain outlet 101, that is, when the centrifugal slider 300 is located near the central axis of the flange 700. This pre-compression force pushes the elastic member 610 rightward, causing the centrifugal slider 300 to apply a downward pulling force to the valve plug 200 via the connecting rod 420 and the reversing rod 410, thereby assisting the valve plug 200 in sealing the drain outlet 101 and achieving a better sealing effect.

[0138] As the centrifugal slider 300 slides toward the outer periphery of the flange 700, the first stop portion 322 gradually approaches the second stop portion 602, further compressing the elastic member 610, causing it to generate a greater elastic force, and at the same time driving the valve plug 200 to open the drain port 101. When the centrifugal force acting on the centrifugal slider 300 gradually disappears, the elastic force generated by the elastic member 610 acts as a reset force for the centrifugal slider 300, pushing the first stop portion 322 rightward, causing the centrifugal slider 300 to slide toward the central axis of the flange 700, driving the valve plug 200 to re-block the drain port 101.

[0139] Specifically, the clamping groove 326 extends along the length of the elastic member 610. One end of the clamping groove 326 is closed to form the first stop portion 322, while the other end of the clamping groove 326 is open. The second stop portion 602 on the slideway 600 blocks the open end of the clamping groove 326. The elastic member 610 is disposed within the clamping groove 326, with its ends respectively abutting against the first stop portion 322 and the second stop portion 602.

[0140] In a further solution of this embodiment, a guide groove 601 is provided on the slideway 600 , and a sliding portion 321 extending along the sliding direction of the centrifugal slider 300 is provided on the centrifugal slider 300 . The sliding portion 321 is slidably inserted in the guide groove 601 .

[0141] In the above scheme, the guide groove 601 on the slide 600 cooperates with the sliding portion 321 on the centrifugal slider 300, and plays a major guiding role in the sliding process of the centrifugal slider 300. Combined with the auxiliary guiding role of the second mounting portion 740 on the centrifugal slider 300, it can prevent the centrifugal slider 300 from deviating from the sliding path, thereby driving the valve plug 200 to move more stably.

[0142] Specifically, the slide 600 has a slide fixing portion 603 connected to the lower surface of the second mounting portion 740. A hole is formed in the slide fixing portion 603. The second mounting portion 740 is provided with a second mounting hole 741. By passing a screw through the second mounting hole 741 and the hole in the slide fixing portion 603, the second mounting portion 740 and the slide fixing portion 603 can be integrally connected, thereby achieving the installation and fixation of the slide 600 and the flange 700.

[0143] The lower edge of the surface of the slide fixing portion 603 facing the inner side of the installation opening 710 protrudes toward the inside of the installation opening 710 to form a support portion 604, and the second stop portion 602 protrudes from the surface of the slide fixing portion 603 facing the inner side of the installation opening 710. The lower surface of the second stop portion 602 is spaced apart from the upper surface of the support portion 604, and a guide groove 601 is formed between the two.

[0144] In this embodiment, the sliding portion 321 and the second covering portion 325 are identical structures provided on the centrifugal slider 300. They cooperate with the guide groove 601 on the slideway 600 to guide the centrifugal slider 300. They also shield the lower surface of the elastic member 610 and, in conjunction with the first covering portion 324 and the second mounting portion 740, cover the outer circumference of the elastic member 610. This simultaneous structure achieves two functions, simplifying the structure of the centrifugal slider 300 and making the overall structure of the inner barrel flange assembly more compact.

[0145] In a further solution of this embodiment, the lower surface of one end of the sliding portion 321 close to the central axis of the flange 700 is partially raised to form a limiting boss 323, and the limiting boss 323 is arranged opposite to the end of the support portion 604 close to the central axis of the flange 700.

[0146] In the above solution, the limiting boss 323 cooperates with the support portion 604 to limit the sliding range of the centrifugal slider 300. When the centrifugal slider 300 slides to the point where the limiting boss 323 abuts the right end of the support portion 604, it cannot slide further, thereby accurately controlling the maximum sliding distance of the centrifugal slider 300. Furthermore, when designing the internal structure of the washing machine, sufficient space can be accurately reserved for the sliding of the centrifugal slider 300, preventing the centrifugal slider 300 from scratching or even colliding with the internal structure of the washing machine when sliding to open the drain outlet 101.

[0147] In a further embodiment of the present invention, the centrifugal slider 300 includes a centrifugal block body 310 and a sliding member 320 fixedly connected to the centrifugal block body 310. The matching mounting structure between the centrifugal slider 300, the second mounting portion 740, and the slideway 600 is formed on the sliding member 320, and the centrifugal slider 300 is slidably mounted on the flange 700 and the slideway 600 via the sliding member 320.

[0148] Specifically, the centrifugal block body 310 extends a certain length along the circumference of the flange 700, and the sliding members 320 are arranged at both ends of the length direction of the centrifugal block body 310. The first covering portion 324, the second covering portion 325 (that is, the sliding portion 321) and the first stop portion 322 are all formed by the sliding member 320, and the outer peripheral side of the elastic member 610 is completely covered by the sliding member 320 and the second mounting portion 740 on the flange 700.

[0149] In order to provide a larger mass to generate a greater centrifugal force, the centrifugal block body 310 is made of a metal material. If it is directly installed on the slide 600, the friction coefficient between the two is large, and a large friction resistance is generated when the centrifugal slider 300 slides, which hinders the sliding of the centrifugal slider 300 and may cause the drain outlet 101 to be unable to open.

[0150] In this embodiment, sliding members 320 are provided on both sides of the centrifugal block body 310 for slidingly cooperating with the slideway 600. The sliding members 320 are made of a material that can reduce the coefficient of friction, such as plastic. The sliding members 320 are fixed to both ends of the centrifugal block body 310. The coefficient of friction between the sliding members 320 and the slideway 600 is low, which can reduce the sliding friction force on the centrifugal slider 300. As a result, the centrifugal slider 300 can slide under the action of a smaller centrifugal force, thereby controlling the opening of the drain outlet 101.

[0151] In this embodiment, the centrifugal drain device is integrated with the flange 700 to form an inner drum flange assembly. By providing an elastic member 610 that applies a restoring force to the centrifugal slider 300, the centrifugal slider 300 automatically resets after the centrifugal force disappears, restoring the valve plug 200 to the state of blocking the drain port 101. The structural design of the centrifugal slider 300, flange 700, and slideway 600 ensures that the elastic member 610 is completely enclosed by the surrounding structure and does not come into direct contact with the washing machine's drain water during drainage. This prevents the elastic member 610 from rusting or catching thread debris, thus avoiding elastic failure and extending the service life of the centrifugal drain device and the washing machine.

[0152] The above description is merely a preferred embodiment of the present invention and does not constitute any form of limitation to the present invention. Although the present invention has been disclosed as above in terms of a preferred embodiment, it is not intended to limit the present invention. Any technician familiar with this patent can make slight changes or modifications to equivalent embodiments using the above technical content without departing from the scope of the technical solution of the present invention. However, any simple modifications, equivalent changes, and modifications made to the above embodiments based on the technical essence of the present invention without departing from the content of the technical solution of the present invention are still within the scope of the solution of the present invention.

Claims

1. A flange, characterized in that: The edge of the flange is partially recessed inward to form a mounting opening, and the mounting opening has a certain extension length in the circumferential direction of the flange; The installation opening has two first edges located at both ends of its extension direction, and a second edge connecting the two first edges; a first installation portion protruding toward the inner side of the installation opening is provided on the second edge; The second edge is partially recessed inward to form a drainage avoidance opening, and the first mounting portion is arranged on an area of ​​the second edge outside the drainage avoidance opening.

2. The flange according to claim 1, characterized in that: The first mounting portion is formed by extending a certain length from the second edge toward the outer periphery of the flange.

3. The flange according to claim 2, characterized in that: A first mounting hole is provided on the first mounting portion.

4. The flange according to claim 3, characterized in that: At least two first mounting holes are provided along the extending direction of the first mounting portion.

5. The flange according to claim 2, characterized in that: Two first mounting portions are symmetrically arranged in the mounting opening, and the extension directions of the two first mounting portions are parallel to each other.

6. The flange according to claim 5, characterized in that: The two first edges are parallel to the extending direction of the first mounting portion.

7. The flange according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that: Two first mounting portions are provided, and are respectively located on both sides of the drainage avoidance opening.

8. The flange according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that: The central area of ​​the lower surface of the flange is concave, and the central area is connected to the peripheral area of ​​the lower surface of the flange via an inclined transition surface; The second edge of the mounting opening is located inside the central area, and the end of the first edge away from the outer periphery of the flange is located in the outer peripheral area; the first edge and the second edge are connected by a rounded corner; The lower surface of the flange outside the rounded corner is flush with the central area of ​​the lower surface of the flange, and a vertical section is formed on an extension line of the first edge extending away from the outer periphery of the flange.

9. The flange according to claim 8, characterized in that: Second mounting portions are respectively formed on the outer sides of the two first edges of the mounting opening, and second mounting holes are provided on the second mounting portions.

10. An inner barrel flange assembly, characterized in that: The flange according to any one of claims 1 to 9 is provided, wherein a centrifugal drainage device is installed in the installation opening of the flange, and the centrifugal drainage device comprises: A mounting bracket connected to the first mounting portion; a valve plug mounted on the mounting bracket so as to be relatively movable; The centrifugal slider slides relative to the flange under the action of centrifugal force, driving the valve plug to move relative to the mounting bracket.

11. The inner barrel flange assembly according to claim 10, characterized in that: The centrifugal sliding block is a plate-shaped structure perpendicular to the central axis of the flange and is matched and installed in the installation opening.

12. The inner barrel flange assembly according to claim 11, characterized in that: An inwardly concave notch is provided on the edge of the centrifugal slider facing the central axis of the flange. When the centrifugal slider is located near the central axis of the flange, the mounting bracket matches the first mounting portion of the flange and is arranged in the notch.

13. A washing machine comprising an inner tub, wherein a drain outlet is provided on the inner tub, wherein: It also includes the inner barrel flange assembly according to any one of claims 10 to 12, wherein the flange is coaxially arranged with the bottom of the inner barrel and is fixedly mounted on the bottom of the inner barrel; During the washing / rinsing process, the valve plug blocks the drain outlet, allowing the inner barrel to independently hold water during the washing / rinsing process; during the drainage process, the centrifugal slider slides radially outward along the flange under the action of centrifugal force, driving the valve plug to move and open the drain outlet for drainage.

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