A washing machine and a control method thereof

Abstract

The present application belongs to the technical field of washing machines, and discloses a washing machine and a control method thereof, the washing machine comprising: a water containing cylinder, a circulating filtering pipeline, a water inlet end and a water outlet end of which are connected with a bottom area of the water containing cylinder respectively; and a filtering device arranged on the circulating filtering pipeline, receiving water in the water containing cylinder to filter, the filtered water returning to the water containing cylinder along the circulating filtering pipeline. In the present application, water in the water containing cylinder can be transported to the filtering device to filter, and then return to the water containing cylinder, in the washing and rinsing process, water in the water containing cylinder is driven to continuously circulate through the filtering device along the circulating filtering pipeline, so that the content of lint in the water can be reduced, both ends of the circulating filtering pipeline are connected with the bottom area of the water containing cylinder, water is discharged and returned from the bottom area of the water containing cylinder, and the flow of water in the water containing cylinder can be strengthened in the circulating process, thereby improving the washing effect.

Description

Technical Field

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

[0002] During the washing process, friction between clothes and between clothes and the washing machine itself causes lint to shed and mix into the wash water. If this lint isn't removed, it may adhere to the clothes after washing, affecting the cleaning effect. Therefore, existing washing machines are equipped with lint filters that circulate the wash water through the filter during the washing process to remove the lint.

[0003] The filters in most washing machines are located inside the inner drum or drain pump to remove lint and debris from the wash water. However, after prolonged use, these filters become clogged with lint and debris, affecting their filtration efficiency, clogging the drain valve / pump, and easily breeding bacteria. Timely cleaning is essential to prevent contamination of the wash water, causing secondary pollution of clothes and impacting user health. However, most washing machines require users to remove the filter for manual cleaning, which is inconvenient.

[0004] On the other hand, some filters, designed to prevent lint from clogging the filter pores, typically have larger pore sizes. However, this can result in some fine lint from clothing not being filtered out, causing it to stick to the garment and negatively impacting the user experience. Furthermore, some of this lint will be carried away by the water flow, entering the ecological cycle and ultimately affecting human health.

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

[0006] The technical problem to be solved by the present invention is to overcome the shortcomings of the prior art and provide a washing machine and its control method in which both ends of the circulating filter pipe are connected to the bottom area of ​​the water tank. Water in the water tank can be introduced into the filter device through the circulating filter pipe, filtered and then returned to the water tank, reducing the lint content in the water. During the circulation process, the water outlet and return of the water tank are both in the bottom area of ​​the water tank, which can enhance the flow of water in the water tank and thus improve the washing effect.

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

[0008] A washing machine, comprising:

[0009] water container,

[0010] The circulating filter pipeline has its inlet and outlet ends connected to the bottom area of ​​the water tank, respectively.

[0011] A filtration device is installed on the circulating filtration pipeline to receive water from the water tank for filtration, and the filtered water returns to the water tank along the circulating filtration pipeline.

[0012] Furthermore, a water outlet is provided at the bottom of the wall of the water container, which is connected to the inlet of the circulating filter pipe; a water return outlet is also provided at the bottom of the wall of the water container, which is connected to the outlet of the circulating filter pipe.

[0013] Preferably, the water outlet of the water container is located near the opening of the water container, and the water return port of the water container is located near the bottom of the water container;

[0014] Alternatively, the water outlet of the water container is located near the bottom of the water container, and the water return port of the water container is located near the opening of the water container.

[0015] Furthermore, a switching device is provided between the water inlet of the circulating filter pipeline and the filter device;

[0016] The switching device is connected to the drain pipe that drains water to the outside of the washing machine, and controls the filter device and the water inlet of the drain pipe to be connected to the water inlet of the circulating filter pipe.

[0017] Furthermore, a circulation pump is installed between the switching device and the inlet end of the circulating filter pipeline, and the switching device includes:

[0018] The inlet is connected to the outlet of the circulating pump;

[0019] The first water outlet is connected to the filter device;

[0020] The second outlet is connected to the inlet end of the drainage pipe;

[0021] The switching mechanism controls the first and second water outlets to connect with the water inlet.

[0022] Furthermore, the switching device is a circulating drainage pump, comprising:

[0023] The pump body is equipped with a pump inlet connected to the inlet end of the circulating filter pipeline, a circulating water outlet connected to the filter device, and a drain outlet connected to the inlet end of the drain pipeline.

[0024] The circulating motor is installed on the pump body at the position corresponding to the circulating water inlet, and controls the opening and closing of the circulating water inlet;

[0025] The drain motor is installed on the pump body at the position corresponding to the drain outlet, and controls the opening and closing of the drain outlet.

[0026] Furthermore, the switching device includes:

[0027] A circulating water pump has a circulating pump casing that is connected to the inlet end of a filter device and a circulating filter pipeline respectively, and a circulating motor that controls the on / off connection between the inlet end of the filter device and the circulating filter pipeline.

[0028] A drain pump has a drain pump casing that is connected to the inlet end of a circulating filter pipe and the inlet end of a drain pipe, respectively, and a drain motor that controls the connection and disconnection between the inlet end of the circulating filter pipe and the inlet end of the drain pipe.

[0029] Furthermore, the filter device has a drain outlet for discharging filtered impurities; the washing machine also includes a recycling device connected to the drain outlet for collecting the filtered impurities discharged by the filter device.

[0030] Preferably, the filter device is located below the water tank;

[0031] More preferably, the recycling device is located in the bottom area of ​​the washing machine.

[0032] Furthermore, the recycling device includes:

[0033] The shell has an internal recovery chamber;

[0034] A filter assembly is disposed within the recovery chamber, dividing the recovery chamber into a first chamber and a second chamber;

[0035] The sewage outlet is connected to the first chamber. Sewage carrying filtered impurities enters the first chamber, is filtered by the filter assembly, and then enters the second chamber. The filtered impurities are collected in the first chamber.

[0036] Preferably, the washing machine further includes a cabinet, and the water tank and the filter device are both disposed in the cabinet; the housing of the recycling device is insertable / removable on the cabinet.

[0037] Another object of the present invention is to provide a control method for the washing machine described above, wherein water in the water tank is introduced into the filtration device through the circulating filtration pipeline, the filtration device is used to filter the water, and the filtered water returns to the water tank along the circulating filtration pipeline.

[0038] Furthermore, a switching device is provided between the water inlet end of the circulating filter pipeline and the filter device, and the switching device is connected to the drain pipeline that drains water to the outside of the washing machine.

[0039] The switching device connects the water tank and the filter device, allowing water from the water tank to be introduced into the filter device through the circulating filter pipeline;

[0040] The switching device connects the water tank and the inlet of the drain pipe, directing the water in the water tank into the drain pipe and out of the washing machine.

[0041] By adopting the above technical solution, the present invention has the following beneficial effects compared with the prior art.

[0042] In this invention, water in the water tank can be transported to a filtration device for filtration via a circulating filtration pipeline, and then returned to the water tank after filtration. During the washing and rinsing processes, the water in the water tank continuously circulates through the filtration device along the circulating filtration pipeline, reducing the lint content in the water and improving the washing effect. Both ends of the circulating filtration pipeline are connected to the bottom area of ​​the water tank, ensuring that the water outlet and return during circulation occur in the bottom area, which enhances the water flow within the water tank and further improves the washing effect.

[0043] In this invention, the water outlet and water return outlet of the water tank are respectively located on the tank wall near the opening and bottom of the tank, maximizing the distance between them. This facilitates the formation of a water flow from the opening to the bottom of the tank or from the bottom to the opening, covering a wider area. Furthermore, if the water circulation begins during the washing machine's water intake process, it can promote the dissolution of detergent and help to quickly wet clothes.

[0044] In this invention, the water in the washing machine's water tank can be introduced into the filter device or directly discharged from the washing machine. By setting a switching device to control the water inlet of the filter device and the drain pipe to be connected to the water tank, the flow direction of the water discharged from the water tank can be controlled, eliminating the trouble of setting up two completely independent water paths, and thus simplifying the internal pipe distribution structure of the washing machine.

[0045] In this invention, the washing machine is equipped with a recycling device to collect the filtered impurities discharged from the filter device, so that the filtered impurities do not flow into the drainage water and are directly discharged with the washing machine. This avoids the situation where fine lint in the filtered impurities directly enters the ecological cycle with the drainage water, thereby preventing fine lint from entering the ecological cycle and affecting human health.

[0046] The specific embodiments of the present invention will now be described in further detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Attached Figure Description

[0047] The accompanying drawings, as part of this invention, are used to provide a further understanding of the invention. The illustrative embodiments and descriptions of the invention are used to explain the invention, but do not constitute an undue limitation of the invention. Obviously, the drawings described below are merely some embodiments, and those skilled in the art can obtain other drawings based on these drawings without creative effort. In the drawings:

[0048] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the washing machine in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0049] Figure 2 This is the present invention. Figure 1 Enlarged view of point A in the middle;

[0050] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the washing machine's drainage state in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0051] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the washing machine in Embodiment 2 of the present invention;

[0052] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the washing machine's drainage state in Embodiment 2 of the present invention;

[0053] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the pump body structure in Embodiment 2 of the present invention;

[0054] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the filtration device in Embodiment 4 of the present invention;

[0055] Figure 8 This is the present invention. Figure 7 Schematic diagram of the BB section;

[0056] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the washing machine performing a self-cleaning operation in Embodiment 5 of the present invention;

[0057] Figure 10 This is the present invention. Figure 9 Enlarged diagram of point C in the middle.

[0058] In the diagram: 10. Box body; 100. Water tank; 101. Water tank return port; 102. Water tank outlet; 210. Drainage pipe; 220. Circulation pipe; 230. Return water pipe; 231. Return water control valve; 240. Sewage pipe; 241. Sewage control valve; 260. Water tank drain pipe; 270. Switching valve assembly; 400. Circulation pump; 500. Recovery device; 510. Shell; 520. Filter assembly; 531. First chamber; 532. Second chamber;

[0059] 600. Filter device; 601. First limiting surface; 602. Second limiting surface; 603. Third limiting surface; 604. Fourth limiting surface; 605. Fifth limiting surface; 606. Sixth limiting surface; 610. Filter chamber; 6101. Water inlet; 6102. Filtered water outlet; 6103. Sewage outlet; 6104. Mounting port; 611. Sealing support; 612. Sleeve; 613. Reinforcing rib; 620. 621. Filter mechanism; 622. Water outlet connector; 623. Rotating support; 624. Filter screen support; 625. Motor mounting part; 636. Filter screen; 641. First bearing; 642. Second bearing; 643. First seal; 644. Second seal; 645. Third seal; 656. Filter chamber flange; 657. Connecting part; 658. Insertion part; 659. Through port; 660. Drive mechanism;

[0060] 700. Circulating drainage pump; 701. Circulating motor; 702. Drainage motor; 710. Pump body; 711. Circulating motor mounting part; 712. Drainage motor mounting part; 713. Pump body; 721. Circulating water inlet; 722. Drain outlet; 723. Pump inlet.

[0061] It should be noted that these accompanying drawings and textual descriptions are not intended to limit the scope of the invention in any way, but rather to illustrate the concept of the invention to those skilled in the art by referring to specific embodiments. Detailed Implementation

[0062] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of the embodiments of the present invention clearer, the technical solutions in the embodiments will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. The following embodiments are used to illustrate the present invention, but are not intended to limit the scope of the present invention.

[0063] In the description of this invention, it should be noted that the terms "upper", "lower", "left", "right", "vertical", "inner", "outer", etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They are only for the convenience of describing this invention and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on this invention.

[0064] In the description of this invention, it should be noted that, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "installation" and "connection" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this invention based on the specific circumstances.

[0065] Example 1

[0066] like Figures 1 to 3 As shown, the washing machine described in this embodiment includes:

[0067] Water container 100,

[0068] The circulating filter pipeline has its inlet and outlet ends connected to the bottom area of ​​the water tank 100, respectively.

[0069] A filter device 600 is installed on the circulating filter pipeline to receive water from the water tank 100 for filtration. The filtered water returns to the water tank 100 along the circulating filter pipeline.

[0070] In this embodiment, during the washing and rinsing process of the washing machine, the water in the water tank 100 is introduced into the filter device 600 through the circulating filter pipe, the filter device 600 filters the water, and the filtered water returns to the water tank 100 along the circulating filter pipe.

[0071] In the above solution, by continuously circulating the water in the water tank 100 through the filter device 600, lint in the water can be removed. The lint-free water is then returned to the water tank 100, thereby reducing the lint content in the water and preventing lint from adhering to the surface of washed clothes, thus improving the user experience. Both ends of the circulating filter pipe are connected to the bottom area of ​​the water tank 100, so that the water outlet and return of the water tank 100 occur in the bottom area during the circulation process. A water flow from the return position to the outlet position is formed in the bottom area of ​​the water tank 100, which can enhance the water flow in the water tank 100 and improve the washing effect.

[0072] In a further embodiment, a water outlet 102 is provided at the bottom of the wall of the water tank 100 and connected to the inlet of the circulating filter pipeline; a water return outlet 101 is also provided at the bottom of the wall of the water tank 100 and connected to the outlet of the circulating filter pipeline.

[0073] In a preferred embodiment, the water outlet 102 of the water tank is located near the opening of the water tank 100, and the water return outlet 101 of the water tank is located near the bottom of the water tank 100.

[0074] During the circulation process, the water in the bottom area of ​​the water tank 100 tends to flow from the return inlet 101 to the outlet 102 inside the water tank 100. The outlet 102 is located in the bottom area of ​​the water tank 100 near the opening, and the return inlet 101 is located in the bottom area of ​​the water tank 100 near the bottom, maximizing the distance between them. This allows for a water flow from the bottom to the opening, resulting in a longer distance traveled at the bottom of the water tank 100 and a wider coverage area.

[0075] When the washing machine begins to circulate the water in the water tank 100 during the water intake process, especially during the washing process, the water flows over a large area at the bottom of the water tank 100, which helps to promote the dissolution of the detergent and also helps to quickly wet the clothes.

[0076] In another preferred embodiment, the water outlet of the water tank can be positioned near the bottom of the tank, and the water return outlet can be positioned near the opening. Similar to the previous embodiment, this creates a water flow from the opening to the bottom of the tank, and the water flow range almost covers the entire radial length of the water tank, thus enhancing the water flow over a wider area and improving the washing effect.

[0077] In this embodiment, the filter device 600 is preferably placed below the water tank 100, so that the entire circulating filter pipeline is located below the water tank 100, making the structure more concentrated and reducing the installation space required inside the washing machine.

[0078] In a further embodiment, a switching device is provided between the water inlet of the circulating filter pipe and the filter device 600. The switching device is connected to the drain pipe 210 that drains water to the outside of the washing machine, and controls the water inlet of the filter device 600 and the drain pipe 210 to be connected to the water inlet of the circulating filter pipe, that is, the water outlet 102 of the water tank.

[0079] Specifically, a circulation pump 400 is installed between the switching device and the inlet end of the circulating filter pipeline. The switching device is a switching valve assembly 270, comprising:

[0080] The inlet is connected to the outlet of the circulating pump 400;

[0081] The first water outlet is connected to the filter device 600;

[0082] The second outlet is connected to the inlet of the drainage pipe 210;

[0083] The switching mechanism controls the first and second water outlets to connect with the water inlet.

[0084] In detail, the water outlet 102 of the water tank is connected to the water tank drain pipe 260, and the outlet end of the water tank drain pipe 260 is connected to the inlet end of the circulation pump 400. The outlet end of the circulation pump 400 is connected to the inlet of the switching valve assembly 270 through the circulation pipe 220. The filter device 600 is provided with an inlet 6101, which is connected to the first outlet of the switching valve assembly 270. The second outlet of the switching valve assembly 270 is directly connected to the inlet end of the drain pipe 210.

[0085] The filter device 600 also has a filtered water outlet 6102 for discharging the filtered water. The filtered water outlet 6102 is connected to the water return port 101 of the water tank through the return water pipe 230 to send the filtered water back to the water tank 100.

[0086] In the above scheme, a switching device is installed in the washing machine to control the direction of the water outlet 102 of the water tank, thereby controlling the flow direction of the water discharged from the water tank 100. When the switching device connects the water outlet 102 of the water tank to the water inlet 6101 of the filter device 600, the water in the water tank 100 can flow into the filter device 600; when the switching device connects the water outlet 102 of the water tank to the drain pipe 210, the water in the water tank 100 can be directly discharged from the washing machine through the drain pipe 210. With the above arrangement, the washing machine does not need to have two completely independent drainage and circulation water circuits. Instead, the drainage and circulation water circuits can share part of the pipe structure, simplifying the internal pipe distribution structure of the washing machine and saving installation space.

[0087] In this embodiment, a switching valve assembly 270 is used as a switching device to control the water flow direction. It has a simple structure, low production cost, and is easy to install. A circulation pump 400 is installed between the water outlet 102 of the water tank 100 and the switching valve assembly 270 to extract water from the water tank 100. Since the circulation pump 400 is located on the common pipeline for guiding water to the filter device 600 and draining water externally, only one circulation pump 400 is needed inside the washing machine to achieve both guiding water to the filter device 600 and draining water externally, reducing the number of pumps used and lowering production costs.

[0088] In this embodiment, as Figure 1 As shown, after the circulation pump 400 is turned on, the control switching device connects the water inlet 6101 of the water tank 100 and the filter device 600, so that the water in the water tank 100 can be introduced into the filter device 600 through the circulation filter pipeline.

[0089] Specifically, after the circulation pump 400 is turned on, the switching mechanism in the control switching valve assembly 270 connects the inlet and the first outlet. The water in the water tank 100 flows out from the outlet 102 of the water tank and passes through the drain pipe 260 of the water tank, the circulation pump 400, and the circulation pipeline 220 in sequence into the filter device 600. After filtration, the water returns to the water tank 100 through the return pipe 230 and the return outlet 101 of the water tank.

[0090] like Figure 3 As shown, after the circulation pump 400 is turned on, the control switching device connects the water inlet of the water tank 100 and the drain pipe 210, so that the water in the water tank 100 can be introduced into the drain pipe 210 and discharged from the washing machine.

[0091] Specifically, after the circulation pump 400 is turned on, the switching mechanism in the control switching valve assembly 270 connects the water inlet and the second water outlet. The water in the water tank 100 flows out from the water tank outlet 102 and passes through the water tank drain pipe 260, the circulation pump 400, and the circulation pipe 220 in sequence into the drain pipe 210, and then is discharged from the washing machine through the drain pipe 210.

[0092] In this embodiment, the washing machine is equipped with a circulating filter pipe connected to both ends of the water tank 100, and a filter device 600 is installed on the circulating filter pipe. During the washing and rinsing process of the washing machine, the water in the water tank 100 flows along the circulating filter pipe and continuously passes through the filter device 600 for filtration. Impurities such as lint carried in the water are collected in the filter device 600, thereby reducing the lint content in the water in the water tank 100 and improving the washing effect.

[0093] Both ends of the circulating filter pipe are connected to the bottom area of ​​the wall of the water tank 100. The distance between the water outlet 102 and the water return 101 of the water tank connected to the circulating filter pipe is maximized as much as possible. This allows the water inside the water tank 100 to flow from the water return 101 to the water outlet 102, and the flow range is large. This helps to promote the full and even dissolution of the detergent, while quickly wetting the clothes and improving the washing effect.

[0094] The washing machine is equipped with a switching device, such as a switching valve assembly 270, which can change the direction of water flow after water is discharged from the water tank 100. This eliminates the need for two separate water paths, simplifying the water path distribution structure inside the washing machine. At the same time, a single circulation pump 400 can be used to both guide water to the filter device 600 and drain water, reducing the number of water pumps required and saving installation space and production costs.

[0095] Example 2

[0096] like Figures 4 to 6 As shown, the difference between this embodiment and the first embodiment described above is that the switching device is a circulating drainage pump 700, which includes:

[0097] The pump body 710 is provided with a pump inlet 723 that is connected to the inlet end of the circulating filter pipeline, i.e., the outlet 102 of the water tank, a circulating water outlet 721 that is connected to the inlet 6101 of the filter device 600, and a drain outlet 722 that is connected to the inlet end of the drain pipeline 210.

[0098] The circulating motor 701 is installed on the pump body 710 at a position corresponding to the circulating water inlet 721, and controls the opening and closing of the circulating water inlet 721.

[0099] The drain motor 702 is installed on the pump body 710 at a position corresponding to the drain outlet 722, and controls the opening and closing of the drain outlet 722.

[0100] In the above solution, an integrated circulating drain pump 700 is used as a switching device. When the circulating motor 701 is turned on, water in the water tank 100 is drawn into the pump body 710 through the pump inlet 723 and then pumped out from the circulating water outlet 721, thus sending the water into the filter device 600. When the drain motor 702 is turned on, the water drawn into the pump body 710 is pumped out from the drain outlet 722 and sent into the drain pipe 210, and then discharged from the washing machine. This method reduces the number of water pumps used inside the washing machine, thereby saving installation space and reducing installation difficulty. The water flow direction can be controlled by controlling the on and off of the circulating motor 701 and the drain motor 702; the logic is simple and easy to implement.

[0101] Specifically, the water outlet 102 of the water tank is connected to the water tank drain pipe 260, and the outlet end of the water tank drain pipe 260 is connected to the pump inlet 723. The circulating water inlet 721 is connected to the water inlet 6101 of the filter device 600 through the circulating pipe 220, and the drain outlet 722 is connected to the water inlet end of the drain pipe 210.

[0102] like Figure 6 As shown, in this embodiment, the pump body 710 of the circulating drainage pump 700 specifically includes:

[0103] The pump body 713 is a hollow columnar structure with a certain length, with one end closed and the pump inlet 723 provided on the side wall of the other end.

[0104] The circulating motor mounting part 711 is provided on the side wall near the closed end of the pump body 713, and has a circulating motor mounting port communicating with the inside of the pump body 713. The orientation of the circulating motor mounting port is perpendicular to the length direction of the pump body 713. The circulating water inlet 721 is provided on the side wall of the circulating motor mounting part 711.

[0105] The drainage motor mounting part 712 is located at one end of the pump body 713 where the pump inlet 723 is located. It has a drainage motor mounting port that communicates with the inside of the pump body 713. The orientation of the drainage motor mounting port is parallel to the length direction of the pump body 713. The drainage outlet 722 is located on the side wall of the drainage motor mounting part 712.

[0106] Preferably, the pump inlet 723 and the circulating water outlet 721 are oriented parallel to each other, and the outlet 722 is oriented perpendicular to the pump inlet 723.

[0107] In detail, the output end of the circulating motor 701 is located inside the circulating motor mounting part 711 and is connected to a circulating pump wheel. The circulating water inlet 721 is located on the outer periphery of the circulating pump wheel. When the circulating motor 701 is turned on, it drives the circulating pump wheel to rotate, and the water that has entered the pump body 713 is pumped out through the circulating water inlet 721.

[0108] Similarly, the output end of the drainage motor 702 is located inside the drainage motor mounting part 712 and is connected to a drainage pump wheel, with the drain outlet 722 located on the outer periphery of the drainage pump wheel. When the drainage motor 702 is turned on, it drives the drainage pump wheel to rotate, pumping out the water that has entered the pump body 713 through the drain outlet 722.

[0109] In this embodiment, an integrated circulating drain pump 700 is installed inside the washing machine. By controlling the opening and closing of the circulating motor 701 and the drain motor 702 respectively, the circulating drain pump 700 can be controlled to deliver water flow in different directions, thereby controlling the washing machine to guide water to the filter device 600 or drain water externally. By reducing the number of water pumps used, the installation space inside the washing machine is saved, production costs are reduced, and the control logic of the washing machine is simple and easy to implement.

[0110] Example 3

[0111] The difference between this embodiment and Embodiment 2 above is that the switching device includes:

[0112] A circulating water pump has a circulating pump casing that is connected to the inlet end of a filter device and a circulating filter pipeline respectively, and a circulating motor that controls the on / off connection between the inlet end of the filter device and the circulating filter pipeline.

[0113] A drain pump has a drain pump casing that is connected to the inlet end of a circulating filter pipe and the inlet end of a drain pipe, respectively, and a drain motor that controls the connection and disconnection between the inlet end of the circulating filter pipe and the inlet end of the drain pipe.

[0114] This embodiment is similar to Embodiment 2, and also has two drive motors, a circulation motor and a drainage motor. By controlling the opening and closing of the two drive motors, the direction of the water outlet of the water tank can be controlled, thereby controlling the flow direction of the water from the water tank.

[0115] In Embodiment 2, a circulation motor and a drainage motor are simultaneously installed on a pump body with an integrated structure, forming an integrated circulation drainage pump. Unlike Embodiment 2, this embodiment uses separate circulation pump casings and drainage pump casings, each housing a separate circulation motor and drainage motor, thus forming a circulation pump and a drainage pump, each connected to a water tank respectively.

[0116] When the circulation motor is turned on, it draws water from the water tank into the circulation pump housing, and then delivers it to the inlet of the filter device. When the drain motor is turned on, it draws water from the water tank into the drain pump housing, and then delivers it to the drain pipe, from which it is discharged from the washing machine.

[0117] In this embodiment, a switching device is composed of a separate circulating water pump and a drain pump. By controlling the on and off of the circulating motor and the drain motor, the direction of the water flow from the water tank can be switched, achieving the same effect as in Embodiment 2 above.

[0118] Example 4

[0119] like Figures 1 to 2 As shown, this embodiment is a further limitation of the first embodiment described above, and the filter device 600 includes:

[0120] A filter chamber 610 is provided with a water inlet 6101 and a filtered water outlet 6102.

[0121] The filter mechanism 620 is rotatably disposed inside the filter chamber 610 and has a water outlet connector 621 that communicates with the filtered water outlet 6102.

[0122] The drive mechanism 660 drives the filter mechanism 620 to rotate within the filter chamber 610.

[0123] The drive mechanism 660 can be an electric motor.

[0124] In the above scheme, the filtration mechanism 620 divides the interior of the filtration chamber 610 into an inner chamber and an outer chamber. Water in the water tank 100 is transported via the circulation pipe 220 and enters the outer chamber through the inlet 6101. The water in the outer chamber is filtered by the filtration mechanism 620, and the filtered water enters the inner chamber, then flows out of the filtration device 600 through the outlet connector 621 and the filtered water outlet 6102, returning to the water tank 100 via the return water pipe 230. Impurities such as lint carried in the water cannot pass through the filtration mechanism 620 into the inner chamber and adhere to the outer surface of the filtration mechanism 620.

[0125] The filter device 600 of this embodiment can be automatically cleaned to remove filter impurities adhering to the surface of the filter mechanism 620. A drain port 6103 is also provided on the filter chamber 610, through which the cleaned filter impurities can be discharged from the filter device 600. When the filter device 600 needs cleaning, the filter mechanism 620 is driven to rotate by the drive mechanism 660. Filter impurities adhering to the surface of the filter mechanism 620 can be detached under centrifugal force and discharged through the drain port 6103. When there is water in the filter chamber 610, the rotation of the filter mechanism 620 can also agitate the water in the filter chamber 610. The resulting turbulent water flow can further act on the surface of the filter mechanism 620, assisting in the removal of filter impurities.

[0126] The attached filter impurities are peeled off from the surface of the filter mechanism 620 under the combined action of centrifugal force and turbulent water flow, realizing the automatic cleaning of the filter device 600 in this embodiment. The user does not need to remove the filter device 600 for manual cleaning. At the same time, the removal rate of filter impurities is high and the cleaning effect is good.

[0127] Furthermore, such as Figure 7 and Figure 8 As shown, the outer periphery of the filtered water outlet 6102 on the filter chamber 610 extends outward to form a sealing support part 611. The water outlet connector 621 is provided at the left end of the filter mechanism 620, inserted into the sealing support part 611, and rotatably and sealingly connected to the sealing support part 611.

[0128] The filter device 600 also includes:

[0129] The first bearing 631 is sleeved on the water outlet connector 621;

[0130] The first seal 641 is disposed on the side of the first bearing 631 facing the inside of the filter chamber 610, and seals the gap between the water outlet connector 621 and the sealing support 611.

[0131] In detail, the filtration mechanism 620 includes a filter screen support and a filter screen 625, wherein the filter screen support includes:

[0132] The filter support 623 is located inside the filter chamber 610, and the filter 625 covers the surface of the filter support 623.

[0133] The water outlet connector 621 is located at the left end of the filter screen support 623 and is rotatably inserted into the sealing support 611.

[0134] The rotating support part 622 is located at the right end of the filter support part 623 and is rotatably connected to the filter chamber 610.

[0135] In the above scheme, a first bearing 631 is provided between the water outlet connector 621 and the sealing support part 611 to support the water outlet connector 621, making the rotation of the water outlet connector 621 within the sealing support part 611 smoother and ensuring structural stability, thus guaranteeing the stable rotation of the filter mechanism 620 within the filter chamber 610. A first seal 641 is provided on the right side of the first bearing 631, preventing washing water in the filter chamber 610 from entering the gap between the water outlet connector 621 and the sealing support part 611, preventing the first bearing 631 from contacting water, avoiding failure of the first bearing 631, and ensuring the effective functioning of the first bearing 631. At the same time, the first seal 641 also prevents unfiltered washing water from flowing out of the filtered water outlet 6102 through the sealing support part 611, which would affect the lint removal efficiency of the filter device 600.

[0136] In the specific embodiment, the first sealing member 641 is sleeved on the water outlet connector 621, the inner wall of the first sealing member 641 is sealed to the outer wall of the water outlet connector 621, and the outer wall of the first sealing member 641 is rotatably sealed to the inner wall of the sealing support part 611.

[0137] In a further embodiment, the filter device 600 further includes a second seal 642, which is disposed on the side of the first bearing 631 facing away from the inside of the filter cavity 610, and blocks the gap between the water outlet connector 621 and the sealing support 611.

[0138] Specifically, the second sealing element 642 is sleeved on the water outlet connector 621, the inner wall of the second sealing element 642 is sealed to the outer wall of the water outlet connector 621, and the outer wall of the second sealing element 642 is rotatably sealed to the inner wall of the sealing support part 611.

[0139] In the above design, a second seal 642 is also provided on the left side of the first bearing 631. Water flowing out through the water outlet 621 can be blocked by the second seal 642 and will not come into contact with the first bearing 631. The first bearing 631 is located between the first seal 641 and the second seal 642, which ensures that the installation environment of the first bearing 631 is water-free to the greatest extent, avoiding rusting of the first bearing 631 when it comes into contact with water, and preventing it from affecting the smooth rotation of the filter mechanism 620.

[0140] In a further embodiment, the inner wall of the sealing support 611 has a stepped structure, and a first limiting surface 601, a second limiting surface 602, and a third limiting surface 603 with an annular structure and gradually decreasing inner diameter are formed sequentially from one end of the sealing support 611 to the outside of the filter cavity 610.

[0141] The surface of the first seal 641 facing the outside of the filter cavity 610 abuts against the first limiting surface 601, the surface of the first bearing 631 facing the outside of the filter cavity 610 abuts against the second limiting surface 602, and the surface of the second seal 642 facing the outside of the filter cavity 610 abuts against the third limiting surface 603.

[0142] In the above scheme, multiple vertical annular limiting surfaces are formed on the inner wall of the stepped sealing support 611, which respectively abut against the left side surfaces of the first seal 641, the first bearing 631 and the second seal 642. This restricts the movement of the above three components in the axial direction of the water outlet connector 621 and prevents the mating structure between the water outlet connector 621 and the sealing support 611 from loosening during the rotation of the filter mechanism 620.

[0143] In a preferred embodiment, the outer diameter of the end of the water outlet connector 621 near the outside of the filter chamber 610 is smaller than the outer diameter of the other end. A fourth limiting surface 604 with an annular structure and perpendicular to the axis of the water outlet connector 621 is formed on the outer wall of the water outlet connector 621. The surface of the first bearing 631 facing the inside of the filter chamber 610 abuts against the fourth limiting surface 604.

[0144] By setting the outer diameter of the left end of the water outlet connector 621 to be smaller than that of the right end, a fourth limiting surface 604 facing to the left is formed at the abrupt change in outer diameter, which abuts against the right side surface of the first bearing 631. In this way, the first bearing 631 has limiting structures on both sides, making the structure more stable.

[0145] In this embodiment, the end of the sealing support 611 away from the filter chamber 610, that is, the left end of the sealing support 611, is connected to the filter chamber flange 650. The filter chamber flange 650 has a through-hole 653 in the middle that communicates with the water outlet connector 621. The outer periphery of the through-hole 653 extends away from the sealing support 611 to form a connecting part 651.

[0146] Preferably, the surface of the filter chamber flange 650 facing the sealing support 611 has a protruding insertion portion 652, which is inserted into the opening at the left end of the sealing support 611.

[0147] In the above scheme, the left end of the sealing support 611 is connected to the filter chamber flange 650, and a connecting part 651 is formed on the filter chamber flange 650. The outer diameter of the connecting part 651 is smaller than the outer diameter of the sealing support 611, and the inner diameter of the connecting part 651 is preferably equal to the inner diameter of the water outlet connector 621. When the filter device 600 is installed in the washing machine, it is connected to the return water pipe 230 through the connecting part 651 to discharge the filtered water. Compared with the method of directly connecting the pipe to the left end of the sealing support 611, the installation is easier.

[0148] The filter chamber flange 650 has a plug-in portion 652 on the right side, which is inserted into the left end opening of the sealing support portion 611, facilitating the positioning of the filter chamber flange 650 and the sealing support portion 611 during assembly. Several fixing portions are respectively provided on the outer periphery of the filter chamber flange 650 and the sealing support portion 611, and the filter chamber flange 650 and the sealing support portion 611 are fixed by screws passing through the fixing portions.

[0149] In a further embodiment, the rotation axis of the rotating support portion 622 at the right end of the filter mechanism 620 extends outward from the filter cavity 610, and the filter cavity 610 is provided with a mounting port 6104 through which the rotating support portion 622 passes. The rotating support portion 622 and the mounting port 6104 are rotatably and sealingly connected.

[0150] In this embodiment, the filter mechanism 620 is driven to rotate by the drive mechanism 660, which is located outside the filter chamber 610 to avoid contact with the washing water. Therefore, a rotating support 622 extends from the right end of the filter chamber 610, and a motor mounting part 624 is provided at the right end of the rotating support 622 for connection with the drive mechanism 660.

[0151] Furthermore, the outer periphery of the mounting port 6104 extends outward from the filter cavity 610 along the axis of the rotating support portion 622 to form a sleeve portion 612, and a third sealing member 643 is fitted onto the rotating support portion 622. The inner wall of the third sealing member 643 is sealed to the outer wall of the rotating support portion 622, and the outer wall of the third sealing member 643 is rotatably sealed to the inner wall of the sleeve portion 612.

[0152] A second bearing 632 is also provided between the sleeve portion 612 and the rotating support portion 622. The second bearing 632 is sleeved on the rotating support portion 622 and is located on the side of the third seal 643 facing the outside of the filter chamber 610.

[0153] In the above design, the third seal 643 prevents water in the filter chamber 610 from leaking out of the mounting port 6104, and the second bearing 632 supports the rotating support 622, ensuring smoother relative rotation between the rotating support 622 and the sleeve 612. The second bearing 632 is located on the right side of the third seal 643, preventing contact with water in the filter chamber 610 and thus avoiding failure.

[0154] In a preferred embodiment, the inner diameter of the sleeve portion 612 near the outside of the filter chamber 610 is smaller than the inner diameter of the other end. A fifth limiting surface 605 with an annular structure is formed on the inner wall of the sleeve portion 612 and is perpendicular to the axis of the rotating support portion 622. The surface of the third sealing member 643 facing the outside of the filter chamber 610 abuts against the fifth limiting surface 605.

[0155] The outer diameter of the rotating support 622 near the outside of the filter chamber 610 is smaller than that of the other end. A sixth limiting surface 606 with an annular structure and perpendicular to the axis of the rotating support 622 is formed on the outer wall of the rotating support 622. The surface of the second bearing 632 facing the inside of the filter chamber 610 abuts against the sixth limiting surface 606.

[0156] In the above design, the inner diameter of the right end of the sleeve portion 612 is smaller than that of the left end, and a fifth limiting surface 605 facing left is formed at the abrupt change in its inner diameter, abutting against the right side surface of the third seal 643. The outer diameter of the right end of the rotating support portion 622 is smaller than that of the left end, and a sixth limiting surface 606 facing right is formed at the abrupt change in its outer diameter, abutting against the left side surface of the second bearing 632. This structure restricts the axial movement of the third seal 643 and the second bearing 632 in the rotating support portion 622, resulting in structural stability.

[0157] In this embodiment, the first seal 641, the second seal 642, and the third seal 643 are all oil seals, and the right wall of the filter cavity 610 is separately disposed from its peripheral sidewall. First, the filter mechanism 620, along with the first seal 641, the second seal 642, and the first bearing 631 on its left end, are installed as a whole into the filter cavity 610. Then, the third seal 643 and the second bearing 632 are installed on its right end. Finally, the right wall of the filter cavity 610 is fastened to its peripheral sidewall.

[0158] In this embodiment, the cross-sectional area of ​​the middle region of the filter support 623 is fixed, and its left and right ends have tapered structures, so that the local surface of the filter 625 is tilted, which is conducive to the shedding of attached lint.

[0159] In this embodiment, the orientation of the water inlet 6101 and the sewage outlet 6103 on the filter chamber 610 is perpendicular to the axis of the filter mechanism 620.

[0160] Preferably, the filter chamber 610 has a cylindrical structure, with the water inlet 6101 located near the right end of the filter chamber 610 and the sewage outlet 6103 located near the left end of the filter chamber 610, and the water inlet 6101 and the sewage outlet 6103 are symmetrical in the circumferential direction of the filter chamber 610.

[0161] In the above scheme, the water inlet 6101 is positioned as far away from the water outlet 621 as possible, so that the area of ​​the filter screen 625 can be fully utilized. The water inlet 6101 and the drain outlet 6103 are arranged vertically and staggered in the axial direction of the filter chamber 610, which is conducive to the full discharge of wastewater after cleaning the filter device 600 in the filter chamber 610.

[0162] In a further embodiment, the outer wall of the sealing support 611 is provided with a reinforcing rib 613 extending radially along the sealing support 611, and the reinforcing rib 613 is connected to the surface of the filter water outlet 6102 on the filter chamber 610.

[0163] Since the sealing support 611 extends a certain length from the left end face of the filter chamber 610, the reinforcing rib 613 provides external support to its peripheral sidewall, ensuring the strength of the sealing support 611.

[0164] In this embodiment, a rotatable filter mechanism 620 is provided inside the filter chamber 610 of the filter device 600. After the washing water to be filtered enters the filter chamber 610, it enters the inner chamber through the filter mechanism 620 and flows out through the water outlet 621. The filtered lint adheres to the outer surface of the filter mechanism 620. By driving the filter mechanism 620 to rotate, the lint can be detached and discharged with the water in the filter chamber 610 through the drain port 6103, realizing the self-cleaning function of the filter device 600, eliminating the need for manual cleaning by the user.

[0165] The filter mechanism 620 is supported at both ends by a first bearing 631 and a second bearing 632, ensuring smooth and stable rotation of the filter mechanism 620 within the filter chamber 610. Simultaneously, the first seal 641, the second seal 642, and the third seal 643 prevent the first bearing 631 and the second bearing 632 from contacting water, thus avoiding their failure.

[0166] In this embodiment, when the filter device 600 is installed in the washing machine, the axis of the filter mechanism 620 is set horizontally, that is, the direction of the filtered water outlet 6102 is horizontal, the water inlet 6101 faces upward to receive water in the water tank 100, and the drain outlet 6103 faces downward. Filter impurities such as lint can be discharged from the drain outlet 6103 under the action of gravity.

[0167] In another embodiment, the axis of the filter mechanism can be parallel to the vertical direction, and the filter device can be installed in the washing machine. In this case, both the water inlet and the drain outlet are oriented horizontally, and preferably the drain outlet is positioned lower than the water inlet. Correspondingly, the filtered water outlet is positioned downwards to discharge the filtered water from the filter device.

[0168] Example 5

[0169] like Figures 1 to 3 ,as well as Figure 9 and Figure 10 As shown, this embodiment is a further limitation of the above embodiment four. The washing machine also includes a recycling device 500 connected to the drain port 6103 of the filter device 600, for collecting the filtered impurities discharged by the filter device 600.

[0170] Specifically, the sewage outlet 6103 is connected to a sewage pipe 240, and the outlet end of the sewage pipe 240 is connected to the recycling device 500, thereby realizing the connection between the sewage outlet 6103 and the recycling device 500.

[0171] In this embodiment, the filter device 600 is located below the water tank 100. At this time, the recycling device 500 is preferably located in the bottom area of ​​the washing machine, which can be closer to the filter device 600, thereby shortening the length of the drain pipe 240 that needs to be extended.

[0172] In the above solution, the filtered impurities discharged from the filter device 600 are collected in the recycling device 500 via the drain pipe 240, and will not flow into the drainage water and be discharged from the washing machine. This method avoids the situation where fine lint from the filtered impurities is carried away by the water flow and enters the ecological cycle, thereby preventing harm to the ecological environment and human health.

[0173] In this embodiment, a return water control valve 231 is installed on the return water pipe 230 to control the opening and closing of the return water pipe 230. A drain control valve 241 is installed on the drain pipe 240 to control the opening and closing of the drain pipe 240. By controlling the opening and closing of the return water control valve 231 and the drain control valve 241, it is equivalent to controlling the opening and closing of the filtered water outlet 6102 and the drain outlet 6103 of the filter device 600, ensuring that the water entering the filter device 600 flows out from the corresponding outlet, so as to achieve the filtration of water or the discharge of filtered impurities.

[0174] In a further embodiment, the recycling device 500 includes:

[0175] The housing 510 has a recovery chamber inside;

[0176] A filter assembly 520 is disposed in the recovery chamber, dividing the recovery chamber into a first chamber 531 and a second chamber 532.

[0177] The sewage outlet 6103 is connected to the first chamber 531. Sewage carrying filtered impurities enters the first chamber 531, is filtered by the filter assembly 520, and then enters the second chamber 532. The filtered impurities are collected in the first chamber 531.

[0178] In the above scheme, the recycling device 500 is equipped with a filter assembly 520, which can filter the discharged sewage, thereby separating the filter impurities in the sewage from the water, so that the separated filter impurities can be directly treated, avoiding the situation where the filter impurities are mixed in the water and cannot be effectively treated.

[0179] Specifically, the filter assembly 520 can be a frame horizontally positioned at a certain height within the recovery chamber and a filter screen laid on the frame. After wastewater carrying filtered impurities enters the first chamber 531, the water can pass through the filter assembly 520 into the second chamber 532. The filtered impurities are blocked by the filter screen and remain on the upper surface of the filter assembly 520.

[0180] In this embodiment, the washing machine also includes a cabinet 10, a water tank 100, and a filter device 600, all of which are disposed inside the cabinet 10. The housing 510 of the recycling device 500 is insertable / removable from the cabinet 10, allowing the user to remove the recycling device 500 from the cabinet 10 for cleaning.

[0181] Specifically, the housing 510 of the recycling device 500 is insertable / removable from the housing 10, and the upper side of the housing 510 has an opening. When the user removes the housing 510 from the housing 10, the filter impurities adhering to the upper surface of the filter assembly 520 can be cleaned through the opening on the upper side of the housing 510. Preferably, the filter assembly 520 is detachably connected to the housing 510, allowing the user to remove the filter assembly 520 from inside the housing 510 for cleaning, making the operation more convenient.

[0182] In a preferred embodiment, a water outlet is provided on the second chamber 532 for discharging filtered clean water. By providing a water outlet on the second chamber 532, the clean water entering the second chamber 532 can be promptly discharged from the recovery device 500, preventing overflow of the recovery device 500 when a large amount of wastewater is discharged from the filtration device 600. Otherwise, the capacity of the second chamber 532 would need to be increased, which would require a larger volume of the recovery device 500, resulting in it occupying a large space inside the washing machine and hindering the miniaturization of the overall washing machine size.

[0183] On the other hand, the water in the second chamber 532 can be automatically discharged from the outlet. When cleaning the recycling device 500, the user only needs to clean the filter impurities on the filter assembly 520, without having to manually pour out the clean water in the second chamber 532. When the filter assembly 520 is detachably installed in the housing 510, the user does not even need to completely remove the housing 510 from the washing machine's cabinet 10; they only need to remove the filter assembly 520 for cleaning, making operation more convenient.

[0184] The water outlet on the second chamber 532 can be connected to the washing machine's drain pipe 210 via a pipe, allowing the filtered clean water to be discharged directly through the drain pipe 210. Since the filtered impurities have been collected in the first chamber 531 of the recycling device 500, there is no situation where filtered impurities are discharged with the drain water.

[0185] Alternatively, the water outlet on the second chamber 532 can be connected to the water tank 100 through a pipe, and the filtered clean water can be fed into the water tank 100 for use, which can save water consumption of the washing machine to a certain extent.

[0186] This embodiment also provides a control method for the washing machine described above, which performs a circulating filtration operation, a self-cleaning operation, and a sewage discharge operation respectively during the washing program of the washing machine.

[0187] Specifically, such as Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the circulating filtration operation includes: closing the sewage control valve 241 and simultaneously opening the return water control valve 231 to connect the return water pipeline 230; starting the circulating pump 400 to introduce the water in the water tank 100 into the circulating filtration pipeline, and after the filter device 600 removes the filtered impurities, the water returns to the water tank 100.

[0188] like Figure 9 and Figure 10 As shown, the self-cleaning operation includes: closing the return water control valve 231, opening the sewage control valve 241 to connect the sewage pipe 240, turning on the circulation pump 400, introducing the water in the water tank 100 into the filter device 600, cleaning the filter device 600 and then discharging it into the recycling device 500; at the same time, controlling the drive mechanism 660 to drive the filter mechanism 620 to rotate at high speed in the filter chamber 610.

[0189] like Figure 3 As shown, the sewage discharge operation includes: opening the sewage discharge control valve 241 to connect the sewage discharge pipeline 240, discharging the sewage carrying filtered impurities from the filter device 600 into the recovery device 500. When performing the sewage discharge operation, the drive mechanism 660 can be controlled to open and drive the filter mechanism 620 to rotate, or the drive mechanism 660 can be left closed, keeping the filter mechanism 620 stationary within the filter chamber 610.

[0190] In this embodiment, the cyclic filtration operation is performed during the washing phase and one or more rinsing phases of the washing program, and the self-cleaning operation and / or sewage discharge operation are performed at least once in a complete washing program. Preferably, the self-cleaning operation and sewage discharge operation are performed at the end of the washing phase and each rinsing phase.

[0191] Specifically, after a certain period of water intake during the washing and rinsing stages, the circulation pump 400 is activated to begin the circulation filtration operation. This circulation filtration operation continues until the washing or rinsing stage is nearing completion and drainage is imminent. At this point, the return water control valve 231 is closed, the drain control valve 241 is opened, and the drive mechanism 660 is activated to perform a self-cleaning operation. After the self-cleaning operation continues for a certain period, the washing machine then performs a drain operation.

[0192] In detail, after the washing machine starts filling with water, it detects the water level in the water tank 100. When the water level reaches the preset level, the circulation pump 400 is turned on to begin the circulation and filtration operation. This prevents the circulation pump 400 from drawing in air and generating operating noise if the water level in the water tank 100 is too low. While the washing machine is performing the sewage discharge operation, it also controls the switching mechanism in the switching valve assembly 270 to connect the circulation pipe 220 and the drain pipe 210. The circulation pump 400 continues to run, draining the remaining water from the water tank 100 into the washing machine.

[0193] In this embodiment, the washing machine is equipped with a recycling device 500 to collect wastewater containing filtered impurities discharged from the filter device 600. This prevents the filtered impurities from flowing into the drain water and being directly discharged from the washing machine, thus avoiding the possibility of fine lint entering the ecological cycle. By incorporating a filter assembly 520 in the recycling device 500, the filtered impurities in the wastewater are separated, making it easier for the user to process and simplifying the operation.

[0194] The above description is merely a preferred embodiment of the present invention and is not intended to limit the present invention in any way. Although the present invention has been disclosed above with reference to preferred embodiments, it is not intended to limit the present invention. Any person skilled in the art can make some modifications or alterations to the above-described technical content to create equivalent embodiments without departing from the scope of the present invention. Any simple modifications, equivalent changes, and alterations made to the above embodiments based on the technical essence of the present invention without departing from the scope of the present invention shall still fall within the scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. A washing machine, characterized in that, include: water container, The circulating filter pipeline has its inlet and outlet ends connected to the bottom area of ​​the water tank, respectively. A filtration device is installed on the circulating filtration pipeline to receive water from the water tank and filter it. The filtered water returns to the water tank along the circulating filtration pipeline. The filtration device includes a filtration chamber and a filtration mechanism rotatably disposed within the filtration chamber. The filtration chamber has a water inlet and a filtered water outlet, as well as a drain outlet for discharging filtered impurities. The filtration mechanism divides the interior of the filtration chamber into an inner chamber and an outer chamber. Water in the outer chamber is filtered by the filtration mechanism and then enters the inner chamber. Filtered impurities adhere to the outer surface of the filtration mechanism, and the filtration mechanism is rotated to clean the surface of the filtration mechanism. The outer periphery of the filtered water outlet on the filter chamber extends outward to form a sealing support portion; one end of the filter mechanism has a water outlet connector inserted into the sealing support portion and communicating with the filtered water outlet; a first bearing, a first seal, and a second seal are sleeved on the water outlet connector, the first seal being located on the side of the first bearing facing the inside of the filter chamber, and the second seal being located on the side of the first bearing facing away from the inside of the filter chamber.

2. The washing machine according to claim 1, characterized in that, The bottom area of ​​the water tank wall is provided with a water outlet, which is connected to the inlet of the circulating filter pipe; the bottom area of ​​the water tank wall is also provided with a water return outlet, which is connected to the outlet of the circulating filter pipe. The inner wall of the sealing support forms multiple vertical annular limiting surfaces, which respectively abut against one side surface of the first seal, the first bearing, and the second seal, in order to restrict the movement of the first seal, the first bearing, and the second seal in the axial direction of the water outlet connector.

3. The washing machine according to claim 2, characterized in that, The water outlet of the water tank is located near the opening of the water tank, and the water return port of the water tank is located near the bottom of the water tank; or, the water outlet of the water tank is located near the bottom of the water tank, and the water return port of the water tank is located near the opening of the water tank. A fourth limiting surface with an annular structure and perpendicular to the axis of the water outlet connector is formed on the outer wall of the water outlet connector. The surface of the first bearing facing the inner side of the filter cavity abuts against the fourth limiting surface, so that both sides of the first bearing have limiting structures.

4. The washing machine according to claim 1, characterized in that, A switching device is provided between the water inlet of the circulating filter pipeline and the filter device; The switching device is connected to the drain pipe that drains water to the outside of the washing machine, and controls the filter device and the water inlet of the drain pipe to be connected to the water inlet of the circulating filter pipe. The inner wall of the sealing support has a stepped structure, and a first limiting surface, a second limiting surface, and a third limiting surface with an annular structure and gradually decreasing inner diameter are formed sequentially from one end of the sealing support towards the outside of the filter cavity; the surface of the first sealing member facing the outside of the filter cavity abuts against the first limiting surface, the surface of the first bearing facing the outside of the filter cavity abuts against the second limiting surface, and the surface of the second sealing member facing the outside of the filter cavity abuts against the third limiting surface.

5. The washing machine according to claim 4, characterized in that, A circulation pump is installed between the switching device and the inlet end of the circulating filter pipeline. The switching device includes: The inlet is connected to the outlet of the circulating pump; The first water outlet is connected to the filter device; The second outlet is connected to the inlet end of the drainage pipe; The switching mechanism controls one of the first and second water outlets to be connected to the water inlet; The filtration mechanism includes a filter screen support and a filter screen covering the surface of the filter screen support. The water outlet connector is located at one end of the filter screen support. The cross-sectional area of ​​the middle region of the filter screen support is fixed, and both ends have a tapered structure.

6. The washing machine according to claim 4, characterized in that, The switching device is a circulating drainage pump, comprising: The pump body is equipped with a pump inlet connected to the inlet end of the circulating filter pipeline, a circulating water outlet connected to the filter device, and a drain outlet connected to the inlet end of the drain pipeline. The circulating motor is installed on the pump body at the position corresponding to the circulating water inlet, and controls the opening and closing of the circulating water inlet; The drain motor is installed on the pump body at the position corresponding to the drain outlet, and controls the opening and closing of the drain outlet; The pump body includes: The pump body is a hollow cylindrical structure of a certain length, with one end closed and the pump inlet provided on the side wall of the other end; The circulating motor mounting part is located on the side wall near the closed end of the pump body, and has a circulating motor mounting port that communicates with the inside of the pump body. The orientation of the circulating motor mounting port is perpendicular to the length direction of the pump body, and the circulating water inlet is located on the side wall of the circulating motor mounting part. The drainage motor mounting part is located at one end of the pump body where the pump inlet is located. It has a drainage motor mounting port that communicates with the inside of the pump body. The orientation of the drainage motor mounting port is parallel to the length direction of the pump body. The drainage outlet is located on the side wall of the drainage motor mounting part.

7. The washing machine according to claim 4, characterized in that, The switching device includes: A circulating water pump has a circulating pump casing that is connected to the inlet end of a filter device and a circulating filter pipeline respectively, and a circulating motor that controls the opening and closing of the inlet end of the filter device and the circulating filter pipeline. When the circulating motor is turned on, it draws water from the water tank into the circulating pump casing and delivers it to the inlet of the filter device. A drainage pump has a drainage pump housing that is connected to the inlet end of a circulating filter pipe and the inlet end of a drainage pipe, respectively, and a drainage motor that controls the connection and disconnection between the inlet end of the circulating filter pipe and the inlet end of the drainage pipe. The drainage pump housing and the circulating pump housing are separately arranged. When the drainage motor is turned on, water in the water tank is pumped into the drainage pump housing and delivered to the drainage pipe.

8. The washing machine according to any one of claims 1-7, characterized in that, The filtration device is located below the water tank; the sewage outlet is connected to a recovery device for collecting the filtered impurities discharged by the filtration device; the recovery device is equipped with a filtration assembly, through which the sewage carrying the filtered impurities is filtered.

9. The washing machine according to claim 8, characterized in that, The recycling device is located in the bottom area of ​​the washing machine; The filter chamber is provided with an installation port, and the filter mechanism has a rotating support portion that extends outward from the filter chamber along its rotation axis and passes through the installation port. The outer periphery of the installation port extends outward from the filter chamber along the axis of the rotating support portion to form a sleeve portion. A second bearing and a third seal are fitted onto the rotating support, with the second bearing located on the side of the third seal facing the outside of the filter chamber.

10. The washing machine according to claim 8, characterized in that, The recycling device includes a housing with a recycling chamber inside; the filtration assembly includes a frame horizontally arranged at a certain height inside the recycling chamber, and a filter screen laid on the frame, dividing the recycling chamber into a first chamber and a second chamber; The sewage outlet is connected to the first chamber. Sewage carrying filtered impurities enters the first chamber, is filtered by the filter assembly, and then enters the second chamber. The filtered impurities are blocked by the filter screen and collected on the upper surface of the filter assembly.

11. The washing machine according to claim 10, characterized in that, The washing machine also includes a cabinet, in which the water tank and the filter are both disposed; the housing of the recycling device is insertable / removable from the cabinet.

12. A control method for a washing machine according to any one of claims 1-11, characterized in that, Water in the water tank is introduced into the filtration device through the circulating filtration pipeline, and the filtration device filters the water. The filtered water then returns to the water tank along the circulating filtration pipeline. Once the washing machine starts filling with water, it begins a circulating filtration process when the water level in the drum reaches the preset level.

13. The control method for a washing machine according to claim 12, characterized in that, A switching device is provided between the water inlet end of the circulating filter pipe and the filter device, and the switching device is connected to the drain pipe that drains water to the outside of the washing machine. The switching device connects the water tank and the filter device, allowing water from the water tank to be introduced into the filter device through the circulating filter pipeline; The switching device connects the water tank and the inlet of the drain pipe, and directs the water in the water tank into the drain pipe to be discharged from the washing machine. In this process, the washing machine discharges wastewater containing filtered impurities from the filter into the recycling device while simultaneously draining water from the water tank.

Images