A balancer, a balancing assembly, and a laundry treating apparatus

Abstract

The application relates to the technical field of clothes treatment, and provides a balancer, a balancing assembly and clothes treatment equipment. The balancer comprises a vehicle frame and a plurality of electric brushes arranged on the vehicle frame. Each electric brush protrudes from the same side of a radial direction of a circumferential motion track of the vehicle frame, and each electric brush is arranged in a spaced manner along an axis direction of the balancer. In the direction from a first side to a second side of the axis direction of the balancer, each electric brush is arranged in a recessed manner towards the inside of the vehicle frame in sequence. The balancer provided by the application is arranged in an asymmetric manner along the axis direction of the balancer, so that the balancer can be smoothly assembled into a balancing ring from the first side to the second side.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of clothing processing technology, and in particular to a balancer, a balancing component, and clothing processing equipment. Background Technology

[0002] In related technologies, garment processing equipment relies on a balance ring assembly mounted on the washing drum to maintain eccentric balance during the dehydration stage. Specifically, a conductive ring is installed inside the balance ring, and a balancer is encapsulated within the balance ring. The balancer's brushes maintain sliding contact with the conductive ring, which provides power and communication to the balancer. When the washing drum rotates eccentrically, the balancer moves within the balance ring in the opposite direction of the drum's eccentricity, thereby balancing the eccentric mass of the washing drum. However, the balancer suffers from inconvenient installation. Summary of the Invention

[0003] In view of this, embodiments of this application aim to provide an easy-to-install balancer, balancing component, and clothing handling device.

[0004] To achieve the above objectives, one aspect of this application provides a balancer configured to perform circular motion within a balance ring of a garment handling device, the balancer comprising:

[0005] Frame;

[0006] Multiple brushes are disposed on the frame, each brush protruding from the same radial side of the frame along the circumferential motion trajectory, and the brushes are arranged at intervals along the rotation axis of the balancer. Along the direction from the first side to the second side of the rotation axis of the balancer, the brushes are sequentially recessed toward the inside of the frame.

[0007] In some implementations, the brush protrudes radially outward from the frame along its circumferential trajectory.

[0008] In some embodiments, the brush slides radially with the frame along a circumferential motion trajectory, and the brush can slide toward the inside of the frame under the action of an external force; the balancer includes a spring disposed on the frame, the spring applying a force to the brush to drive the brush to reset.

[0009] In some embodiments, the frame has multiple insertion cavities arranged sequentially along the rotation axis of the balancer. Each insertion cavity has a insertion hole on one side wall along the sliding direction. The first end of the brush is located in the corresponding insertion cavity, and the second end of the brush extends out of the insertion cavity through the insertion hole. The spring is located in the insertion cavity and abuts against the brush.

[0010] In some embodiments, the frame includes a mounting bracket and a cover plate, the mounting bracket having a insertion slot, the insertion hole being located on the inner wall corresponding to the insertion slot, the insertion slot being open on the side opposite to the insertion hole, and the cover plate covering the open portion of the insertion slot to collectively define the insertion cavity.

[0011] In some embodiments, the outer surface of the frame along the radial side of the circumferential motion trajectory has a continuous stepped structure. The continuous stepped structure has a plurality of first stepped surfaces arranged sequentially along the rotation axis of the balancer. Each brush passes through the corresponding first stepped surface. The radial distance between two adjacent first stepped surfaces along the circumferential motion trajectory is greater than zero. The distance between each first stepped surface and the rotation axis of the balancer increases or decreases sequentially along the rotation axis of the balancer.

[0012] In some implementations, each of the first step surfaces is arranged at equal radial intervals along the circumferential motion trajectory, and each of the brushes has the same maximum protrusion height on the corresponding first step surface.

[0013] In some embodiments, the balancer includes a plurality of rolling groups spaced apart along the rotation axis of the balancer, each rolling group protruding from the same radial side of the frame along the circumferential motion trajectory, and each rolling group being sequentially recessed toward the interior of the frame along the direction from the first side to the second side.

[0014] In some implementations, the rolling assembly protrudes radially outward from the frame along its circumferential trajectory.

[0015] In some embodiments, all the brushes are sandwiched between two adjacent sets of rollers along the rotational axis of the balancer.

[0016] Another embodiment of this application provides a balancing component, including:

[0017] The balancer described in any of the above claims; and

[0018] A balancing ring includes a housing and multiple conductive rings. The housing includes an annular shell and an end cap. The annular shell forms an annular cavity, which is open to the side facing the end cap. The end cap is disposed on a first side of the annular shell near the rotation axis of the balancer and covers the open portion of the annular cavity. The conductive rings are disposed on the radial sidewalls of the annular cavity. The multiple conductive rings are arranged in an insulated manner along the axial direction of the balancing ring. The brush is in conductive contact with the conductive rings. Along the direction from the first side to the second side, the protrusion height of each conductive ring on the inner wall of the annular cavity increases sequentially.

[0019] In some embodiments, the balancer includes a plurality of rolling groups spaced apart along the rotation axis of the balancer, each rolling group protruding from the same radial side of the frame along the circumferential motion trajectory, and each rolling group being sequentially recessed toward the interior of the frame along the direction from the first side to the second side.

[0020] The annular cavity has multiple second step surfaces formed on its radial wall surface. The protrusion height of each second step surface increases sequentially from the first side to the second side, and the rolling assembly makes rolling contact with the second step surfaces.

[0021] In some embodiments, the balance ring includes a gear ring surrounding the radially inner wall of the annular cavity, and the balancer includes a power element comprising a motor located on the frame and a gear rotatably connected to the motor, the gear extending out of the frame along its circumferential trajectory and meshing with the gear ring.

[0022] In some embodiments, the balancer includes two limiting members disposed on the frame, the limiting members protruding from the inside of the frame along the circumferential movement trajectory, and the two limiting members being spaced apart along the rotational axis of the balancer, the gear ring being slidably accommodated between the two limiting members.

[0023] This application embodiment also provides a garment processing device, including:

[0024] The balancing component described in any of the above claims; and

[0025] The washing drum, wherein the balance ring is arranged coaxially with the washing drum and rotates synchronously.

[0026] The balancer provided in this application embodiment has brushes arranged in a recessed manner toward the inside of the frame along the first side to the second side of the balancer's rotation axis. In this way, the brushes are arranged asymmetrically along the balancer's rotation axis so that the balancer can be smoothly assembled into the balance ring from the first side to the second side. Attached Figure Description

[0027] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a balancing component in one embodiment of this application, wherein the dashed line O schematically shows the circular motion trajectory of the balancing device;

[0028] Figure 2 for Figure 1 Enlarged view of point A in the middle;

[0029] Figure 3 for Figure 1 A partial sectional view of the structure shown;

[0030] Figure 4 for Figure 3 Enlarged view of point B in the middle;

[0031] Figure 5 for Figure 3 Enlarged view of point C in the middle;

[0032] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the balancer in one embodiment of this application;

[0033] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the balancer in another embodiment of this application;

[0034] Figure 8 for Figure 7 A structural diagram of the structure shown from another perspective;

[0035] Figure 9 for Figure 7 A partial cross-sectional view of the structure shown.

[0036] Figure 10 for Figure 9 Enlarged view of point D in the middle;

[0037] Figure 11 for Figure 10 The diagram shows a partial structure, where brushes and springs are not shown.

[0038] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0039] Balancer 100; Frame 110; Plug-in cavity 110a; Plug-in hole 110a'; Mounting bracket 111; Plug-in groove 111a; Cover plate 112; Wiring hole 112a; Continuous step structure 113; First step surface 113a; Frame 114; Guide frame 115; Brush 120; Spring 130; Rolling assembly 140; Rolling element 141; Support shaft 1411; Bearing 1412; Power component 150; Motor 151; Gear 152; Gearbox 153; Limiting component 160; Counterweight 170; Anti-collision component 180;

[0040] Balance ring 200; housing 210; ring shell 211; annular cavity 211a; second step surface 211a'; conductive ring 220; toothed ring 230; Detailed Implementation

[0041] It should be noted that, unless otherwise specified, the embodiments and technical features in the embodiments of this application can be combined with each other, and the detailed descriptions in the specific implementation should be understood as explanations of the purpose of this application and should not be regarded as undue limitations on this application.

[0042] In the description of the embodiments of this application, the orientation or positional relationship of "radial", "inner", "outer", "rotation axis", "first side", and "second side" is as follows: Figure 3 and Figure 4 The orientations or positional relationships shown are intended only for the convenience of describing this application and simplifying the description, and are not intended to indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore should not be construed as a limitation of this application.

[0043] This application provides a balancing component; please refer to [link / reference]. Figure 1 The balancing assembly includes a balancer 100 and a balancing ring 200. The balancer 100 is configured to make circular motion within the balancing ring 200 of the garment handling device.

[0044] Please see Figures 2-4 The balancer 100 includes a frame 110 and a plurality of brushes 120 disposed on the frame 110, each brush 120 protruding from the frame 110 along a circular motion trajectory O (see [reference]). Figure 1 The brushes 120 are arranged at intervals along the rotation axis of the balancer 100, on the same radial side, in the direction from the first side to the second side of the rotation axis of the balancer 100 (see [reference]). Figure 4 Each brush 120 is arranged recessed toward the inside of the frame 110. That is, the brush 120 closer to the first side protrudes more from the frame 110 than the brush 120 farther from the first side.

[0045] As an example, in one embodiment, please refer to Figure 2 and Figure 4 In one embodiment, the brush 120 protrudes radially outward from the frame 110 along its circumferential motion trajectory O. Therefore, along the rotational axis of the balancer 100, the maximum distance between the brush 120 and the rotational axis of the balancer 100 decreases sequentially from the first side to the second side, allowing each brush 120 to be arranged recessed toward the inside of the frame 110. In another embodiment, the brush 120 protrudes radially inward from the frame 110 along its circumferential motion trajectory O. Therefore, along the rotational axis of the balancer 100, the maximum distance between the brush 120 and the rotational axis of the balancer 100 increases sequentially from the first side to the second side, allowing each brush 120 to also be arranged recessed toward the inside of the frame 110.

[0046] Please see Figures 1-4The balance ring 200 includes a housing 210 and a plurality of conductive rings 220. The housing 210 includes an annular shell 211 and an end cap. The annular shell 211 forms an annular cavity 211a, which is open on the side facing the end cap. The end cap is disposed on a first side of the annular shell 211 near the rotation axis of the balancer 100 and covers the opening of the annular cavity 211a. The balancer 100 is assembled into the annular cavity 211a through the opening. The end cap covers the opening of the annular cavity 211a to form a closed annular space so that the balancer 100 can stably perform circular motion within the annular cavity 211a without dislodging from it.

[0047] It is understood that the first side refers to the side of the annular shell 211 that is closer to the end cover along the rotational axis of the balancer 100, and the second side refers to the side of the annular shell 211 that is farther away from the end cover along the rotational axis of the balancer 100. In this way, the annular cavity 211a is open to the first side.

[0048] Please see Figure 2 , Figure 4 and Figure 5 Conductive rings 220 are disposed on the radial sidewall of the annular cavity 211a, and multiple conductive rings 220 are arranged insulatedly along the axial direction of the balance ring 200. That is, there is no electrical conductivity between the conductive rings 220. The brush 120 makes conductive contact with the conductive rings 220, and the protrusion height of each conductive ring 220 on the inner wall of the annular cavity 211a increases sequentially from the first side to the second side. That is, the conductive rings 220 farther from the first side protrude more from the inner wall of the annular cavity 211a than the conductive rings 220 closer to the first side.

[0049] As an example, in one embodiment, please refer to Figures 2-5 The brush 120 protrudes radially outward from the frame 110 along its circumferential motion trajectory O, and the conductive ring 220 is disposed on the radially outward sidewall of the annular cavity 211a. In the axial direction of the balance ring 200, the minimum distance between the conductive ring 220 and the axis of the balance ring 200 decreases sequentially from the first side to the second side. Thus, each brush 120 is sequentially recessed towards the interior of the frame 110, and the protrusion height of each conductive ring 220 on the inner wall of the annular cavity 211a increases sequentially, ensuring that each brush 120 and each conductive ring 220 maintain conductive contact. Furthermore, during the circular motion of the balancer 100, under the action of centrifugal force, the brush 120 can press against the conductive ring 220 to maintain good conductive contact with the conductive ring 220, avoiding power and / or communication interruptions due to poor contact.

[0050] In another embodiment, the brush 120 protrudes radially inward from the frame 110 along its circumferential motion trajectory O, and the conductive ring 220 is disposed on the radially inward sidewall of the annular cavity 211a. Thus, in the axial direction of the balance ring 200, the minimum distance between the conductive ring 220 and the axis of the balance ring 200 increases sequentially from the first side to the second side. In this way, each brush 120 is sequentially recessed towards the interior of the frame 110, and the protrusion height of each conductive ring 220 on the inner wall of the annular cavity 211a increases sequentially, ensuring that each brush 120 and each conductive ring 220 maintain conductive contact.

[0051] The balancer 100 provided in this application embodiment has brushes 120 arranged asymmetrically along the rotation axis of the balancer 100 so that the balancer 100 can be smoothly assembled into the balance ring 200 from the first side to the second side.

[0052] The conductive ring 220 provides power to the balancer 100 for both electrical operation and communication. The brush 120 makes conductive contact with the conductive ring 220 to draw electrical energy from it. There are at least two conductive rings 220, and the balancer 100 draws power from at least one conductive ring 220 to obtain the electrical energy required for movement. The balancer 100 maintains communication through the other conductive ring 220.

[0053] It is understandable that the number of conductive rings 220 used for power supply can be one, two, or more. When one of the conductive rings 220 is damaged, the remaining conductive rings 220 can continue to supply power to the balancer 100, thereby improving the power supply reliability of the balance ring 200.

[0054] The number of conductive rings 220 used for communication can be one, two, or more. When one conductive ring 220 fails, the remaining conductive rings 220 can continue to communicate with the balancer 100, improving the communication reliability of the balance ring 200.

[0055] Taking the balancing component used in a garment processing device as an example, this application embodiment also provides a garment processing device, which includes a balancing component and a washing drum according to any embodiment of this application, wherein the balancing ring 200 is arranged coaxially with the washing drum and rotates synchronously.

[0056] In other words, the balance ring 200 is centered on the rotation center line of the washing drum. The balance ring 200 and the washing drum can be fixedly connected by screws, clips, welding, etc., so that the balance ring 200 rotates with the washing drum, and the balancer 100 rotates in a circle within the balance ring 200, centered on the rotation center line of the washing drum. That is to say, the rotation axis of the balancer 100, the axis of the balance ring 200, and the rotation center line of the washing drum are all aligned.

[0057] The balancing component can be positioned at any point along the axial direction of the washing drum. For example, it can be positioned at either end of the washing drum along its axial direction, or at the middle of the washing drum along its axial direction.

[0058] One or more balancing components can be installed on each washing drum.

[0059] In one embodiment, the garment handling equipment includes a control device. The balancer 100 includes a control structure mounted on the frame 110. The control device communicates with the control structure to control the movement of the balancer 100 within the balance ring 200. The control structure obtains power and communication signals through conductive contact between each brush 120 and each conductive ring 220, enabling the balancer 100 to move and be controlled within the annular cavity 211a. Active balancing is achieved through the movement of the balancer 100; that is, the movement of the balancer 100 is actively controlled by the control device and the control structure, rather than being random.

[0060] When the washing drum rotates at high speed, for example, at a speed greater than 150 revolutions per minute, if the load inside the washing drum becomes eccentric, the washing drum may rotate eccentrically. The control device and control structure can control the balancer 100 to move in the balance ring 200 according to the load eccentricity of the washing drum, so as to counteract the eccentric mass of the washing drum, suppress the eccentric amplitude of the washing drum, and thus reduce the vibration of the clothes handling equipment.

[0061] It is understood that the garment processing equipment can be either a drum-type garment processing equipment or a pulsator-type garment processing equipment; there are no restrictions here.

[0062] Clothing processing equipment can be washing machines, dryers, or washer-dryer combos, etc.

[0063] In one embodiment, please refer to Figures 2-5The brush 120 slides radially with the frame 110 along the circumferential motion trajectory O, and the brush 120 can slide inward toward the frame 110 under the action of external force. The balancer 100 includes a spring 130 disposed on the frame 110, and the spring 130 applies a force to the brush 120 to drive the brush 120 to reset. That is, the brush 120 can slide radially back relative to the frame 110 along the circumferential motion trajectory O under the action of external force, while the spring 130 is used to drive the brush 120 to slide radially out and reset relative to the frame 110 along the circumferential motion trajectory O. Thus, under the combined action of external force and spring 130, the brush 120 can slide linearly radially relative to the frame 110 along the circumferential motion trajectory O. For example, when the balancer 100 is assembled in the annular cavity 211a, the brush 120 can slide radially back relative to the frame 110 along the circumferential motion trajectory O under the action of the conductive ring 220, and extend out of the frame 110 along the circumferential motion trajectory O under the action of the spring 130. In this way, on the one hand, during the process of the balancer 100 entering the annular cavity 211a, the brush 120 slides towards the inside of the frame 110 under the action of external force to avoid structures such as the conductive ring 220, thereby smoothly entering the annular cavity 211a, thus reducing the assembly difficulty of the balancer 100. On the other hand, during the circular motion of the balancer 100, the brush 120 can slide radially along the circular motion trajectory O so as to always maintain conductive contact with the conductive ring 220. This avoids excessive friction between the brush 120 and the conductive ring 220 due to excessive pressure, and also avoids poor contact between the brush 120 and the conductive ring 220 due to manufacturing or assembly errors.

[0064] The arrangement of the brush 120 and spring 130 is not limited. For example, in one embodiment, please refer to [reference needed]. Figure 10 and Figure 11 The frame 110 has multiple insertion cavities 110a, which are arranged sequentially along the rotation axis of the balancer 100. Each insertion cavity 110a has a insertion hole 110a' on one side wall along the sliding direction. The first end of the brush 120 is located within the corresponding insertion cavity 110a, and the second end of the brush 120 extends out of the insertion cavity 110a through the insertion hole 110a'. The spring 130 is located within the insertion cavity 110a and abuts against the brush 120. Thus, both the first end of the brush 120 and the spring 130 are confined within the insertion cavity 110a, facilitating quick assembly of the spring 130 and the brush 120. The second end of the brush 120 can slide within the insertion hole 110a', which both facilitates the sliding of the brush 120 and provides a certain degree of restraint, preventing the brush 120 from shifting.

[0065] The manner in which the brush 120 and spring 130 are assembled into the insertion cavity 110a is not limited. For example, in one embodiment, please refer to... Figures 8-11 The frame 110 includes a mounting bracket 111 and a cover plate 112. The mounting bracket 111 forms a insertion groove 111a. An insertion hole 110a' is located on the inner wall of the insertion groove 111a. The insertion groove 111a is open on the side opposite to the insertion hole 110a'. The cover plate 112 covers the open part of the insertion groove 111a to jointly define the insertion cavity 110a. The brush 120 and the spring 130 can be inserted into the insertion groove 111a from the open part of the insertion groove 111a. The brush 120 is inserted into the insertion slot 111a through its open portion. The second end of the brush 120 extends out of the insertion slot 111a through the insertion hole 110a'. The spring 130 is sleeved around the first end of the brush 120. The portion of the brush 120 located between its first and second ends is sandwiched between the periphery of the insertion hole 110a' and the spring 130 to prevent the brush 120 from dislodging from the spring 130 and the insertion hole 110a'. After assembling the brush 120 and the spring 130, the cover plate 112 closes the open portion of the insertion slot 111a to prevent the brush 120 and the spring 130 from dislodging from the open portion of the insertion slot 111a. This allows for quick assembly of the brush 120 and the spring 130, simplifying the operation.

[0066] To facilitate the electrical connection between the brush 120 and the control structure, in one embodiment, please refer to... Figure 8 The cover plate 112 has a wiring hole 112a that communicates with the insertion slot 111a. The cable passes through the wiring hole 112a and electrically connects the brush 120 and the control structure.

[0067] The arrangement of the brushes 120 recessed toward the interior of the frame 110 is not limited. For example, in one embodiment, please refer to... Figure 6 and Figure 7 A continuous stepped structure 113 is formed on the outer surface of the frame 110 along the radial side of the circular motion trajectory O. The continuous stepped structure 113 has multiple first stepped surfaces 113a arranged sequentially along the rotation axis of the balancer 100. Each brush 120 passes through the corresponding first stepped surface 113a. The radial distance between two adjacent first stepped surfaces 113a along the circular motion trajectory O is greater than zero. The distance between each first stepped surface 113a and the rotation axis of the balancer 100 increases or decreases sequentially along the rotation axis of the balancer 100. In this way, the continuous stepped structure 113 on the frame 110 is easy to manufacture. The first stepped surfaces 113a position and install the brushes 120. By utilizing the height difference of each first stepped surface 113a, each brush 120 is arranged to be recessed toward the inside of the frame 110 in sequence. The process is simple and the production efficiency is high.

[0068] In one embodiment, please refer to Figure 6 and Figure 7The continuous stepped structure 113 can be formed on the mounting frame 111.

[0069] In one embodiment, please refer to Figure 6 , Figure 7 and Figure 10 Each first step surface 113a is arranged at equal radial intervals along the circumferential motion trajectory O, and the maximum protrusion height of each brush 120 on its corresponding first step surface 113a is the same. That is, the maximum distance L between each brush 120 and its corresponding first step surface 113a is equal (see [reference]). Figure 10 This facilitates control over the manufacturing precision of each first step surface 113a, each brush 120, and each conductive ring 220, reducing manufacturing difficulty. Each brush 120 can be manufactured to a uniform specification, facilitating standardized manufacturing and thus reducing manufacturing costs.

[0070] In one embodiment, please refer to Figure 2 , Figure 6 and Figure 7 The balancer 100 includes multiple rolling groups 140 spaced apart along the rotation axis of the balancer 100. Each rolling group 140 protrudes from the same radial side of the frame 110 along the circumferential motion trajectory O. Along the direction from the first side to the second side, each rolling group 140 is sequentially recessed towards the interior of the frame 110. The rolling groups 140 roll in contact with the radial wall of the annular cavity 211a to drive the balancer 100 in a circular motion. The rolling groups 140 closer to the first side protrude more from the frame 110 than those farther from the first side. This avoids interference between the rolling groups 140 and the radial wall of the annular cavity 211a, facilitating the assembly of the balancer 100 into the annular cavity 211a.

[0071] As an example, in one embodiment, please refer to Figure 2 , Figure 6 and Figure 7 The rolling assembly 140 protrudes radially outward from the frame 110 along its circumferential motion trajectory O. Therefore, along the rotation axis of the balancer 100, the maximum distance between the rolling assembly 140 and the rotation axis of the balancer 100 decreases sequentially from the first side to the second side, allowing each rolling assembly 140 to be arranged to be recessed into the frame 110 in sequence.

[0072] In another embodiment, the rolling assembly 140 protrudes radially inward from the frame 110 along its circumferential motion trajectory O. Thus, in the rotational axis of the balancer 100, the maximum distance between the rolling assembly 140 and the rotational axis of the balancer 100 increases sequentially from the first side to the second side, allowing each rolling assembly 140 to be arranged to be recessed toward the interior of the frame 110 in sequence.

[0073] In one embodiment, please refer to Figure 5 and Figure 6The annular cavity 211a has multiple second step surfaces 211a' formed on its radial wall. The protrusion height of each second step surface 211a' increases sequentially from the first side to the second side, and the rolling assembly 140 rolls in contact with the second step surfaces 211a'. That is, the second step surface 211a' farther from the first side is more protruding than the second step surface 211a' closer to the first side.

[0074] As an example, in one embodiment, please refer to Figure 5 and Figure 6 The rolling assembly 140 protrudes radially outward from the frame 110 along its circumferential motion trajectory O, and the second step surface 211a' is formed on the radially outward wall surface of the annular cavity 211a. In the axial direction of the balance ring 200, the minimum distance between the second step surface 211a' and the axis of the balance ring 200 decreases sequentially from the first side to the second side. Thus, each rolling assembly 140 is sequentially recessed towards the interior of the frame 110, and the protrusion height of each second step surface 211a' increases sequentially, ensuring that each rolling assembly 140 and each second step surface 211a' remain in contact. During the circular motion of the balancer 100, under the action of centrifugal force, each rolling assembly 140 presses against the second step surface 211a' to limit the radial movement of the balancer 100 and maintain the stability of the balancer 100's operation.

[0075] In another embodiment, the rolling assembly 140 protrudes radially inward from the frame 110 along its circumferential motion trajectory O, and the second stepped surface 211a' is formed on the radially inward wall of the annular cavity 211a. In the axial direction of the balance ring 200, the minimum distance between the second stepped surface 211a' and the axis of the balance ring 200 increases sequentially from the first side to the second side. Thus, each rolling assembly 140 is sequentially recessed towards the interior of the frame 110, and the protrusion height of each second stepped surface 211a' increases sequentially, ensuring that each rolling assembly 140 and each second stepped surface 211a' maintains rolling contact.

[0076] In one embodiment, please refer to Figure 6 and Figure 7 Along the rotational axis of the balancer 100, all brushes 120 are sandwiched between two adjacent rolling groups 140. On the one hand, the rolling groups 140 protect each brush 120, reducing the impact force on the brush 120. On the other hand, it facilitates the positioning and arrangement of each conductive ring 220 and each second step surface 211a' on the inner wall surface of the annular cavity 211a, reducing manufacturing difficulty.

[0077] In one embodiment, please refer to Figure 6 and Figure 7The rolling assembly 140 includes at least one rolling element 141. For example, in one embodiment, the rolling assembly 140 includes one rolling element 141. In another embodiment, the rolling assembly 140 includes multiple rolling elements 141, which are spaced apart along the direction of movement of the balancer 100. The multiple rolling elements 141 can ensure that the balancer 100 operates more smoothly.

[0078] The number of rolling groups 140 and the number of rolling elements 141 in each rolling group 140 are not limited. For example, in a specific embodiment, please refer to... Figure 7 There are two rolling groups 140, with all brushes 120 sandwiched between them. One rolling group 140 includes two rolling elements 141, and the other rolling group 140 includes four rolling elements 141. Thus, the multiple rolling groups 140 and multiple rolling elements 141 ensure smoother operation of the balancer 100. For another embodiment, please refer to... Figure 6 Alternatively, both rolling groups 140 may include two rolling elements 141.

[0079] In one embodiment, please refer to Figure 7 The rolling element 141 includes a support shaft 1411 and at least one bearing 1412. The support shaft 1411 is connected to the frame 110, and the bearing 1412 is sleeved on the support shaft 1411. The bearing 1412 rotates to drive the balancer 100 to move.

[0080] In one embodiment, please refer to Figures 1-5 The balance ring 200 includes a gear ring 230, which surrounds the radially inner wall of the annular cavity 211a. The balancer 100 includes a power component 150, which includes a motor 151 located on the frame 110 and a gear 152 rotatably connected to the motor 151. The gear 152 extends out of the frame 110 along its circumferential motion trajectory O and meshes with the gear ring 230. The motor 151 drives the gear 152 to rotate, and the gear 152 moves along the gear ring 230, thereby driving the balancer 100 to move circumferentially along the balance ring 200. The gear 152 meshes with the gear ring 230 to prevent the balancer 100 from slipping during movement and to improve the stability of the balancer 100 during movement.

[0081] In one embodiment, please refer to Figure 6 and Figure 7 The power unit 150 also includes a reduction gearbox 153, through which power is transmitted between the motor 151 and the gear 152. The reduction gearbox 153 ensures that the motor 151 and the gear 152 have an appropriate transmission ratio, so that the gear 152 can have a suitable speed and torque.

[0082] In one embodiment, please refer to Figure 8 and Figure 9The balancer 100 includes two limiting members 160 disposed on the frame 110. The limiting members 160 protrude from the inner side of the frame 110 along its circumferential movement trajectory O, and the two limiting members 160 are spaced apart along the rotational axis of the balancer. A gear ring 230 is slidably accommodated between the two limiting members 160. The space between the two limiting members 160 is a limiting space, within which the gear ring 230 is slidably accommodated. The two limiting members 160 serve as guides and limiters. On one hand, the cooperation of the two limiting members 160 and the gear ring 230 restricts the axial movement of the balancer 100 along the balance ring 200. The cooperation of the limiting members 160 and the rolling assembly 140 jointly restricts the radial offset of the balancer 100, thus improving the stability of the balancer 100 during movement. On the other hand, guided by the limiting members 160, the balancer 100 can move quickly and smoothly along the gear ring 230.

[0083] The specific shape of the limiting member 160 is not limited. In one embodiment, please refer to [reference needed]. Figure 8 and Figure 9 The limiting component 160 is plate-shaped. The limiting component 160 has a simple structure.

[0084] In one embodiment, please refer to Figure 6 and Figure 7 The balancer 100 includes a counterweight 170 disposed on the frame 110, the counterweight 170 being located on the frame 110 near the first side. The counterweight 170 is used to adjust the center of gravity of the balancer 100 so that the balancer 100 moves more smoothly.

[0085] In one embodiment, please refer to Figure 2 , Figure 6 and Figure 7 The balancer 100 includes a bumper 180, which is disposed at the end of the frame 110 along the direction of movement of the balancer 100. The bumper 180 is used to prevent impacts during the movement of the balancer 100.

[0086] The material of the anti-collision component 180 is not limited. For example, the anti-collision component 180 includes, but is not limited to, rubber or silicone.

[0087] In one embodiment, please refer to Figure 2 and Figure 8 The frame 110 bends outward toward the outer side of its circular motion trajectory, with the center of the circular motion trajectory located on the concave side of the frame 110. This further facilitates the movement of the frame 110 within the annular cavity.

[0088] The specific structure of the frame 110 is not limited; in one embodiment, please refer to [reference needed]. Figures 6-8The frame 110 includes a frame body 114 and a guide frame 115. The guide frame 115 and the mounting frame 111 are respectively disposed at both ends of the frame body 114 along the circumferential movement direction of the balancer 100. Both the guide frame 115 and the mounting frame 111 are detachably connected to the frame body 114, for example, both the guide frame 115 and the mounting frame 111 are connected to the frame body 114 by screws. The rolling assembly 140 and the power component 150 are both disposed on the frame body 114, the limiting component 160 is disposed on the guide frame 115, and the control structure is disposed on the mounting frame 111. This facilitates the separate manufacture of the mounting frame 111, the frame body 114, and the guide frame 115, and then the assembly of the mounting frame 111, the frame body 114, and the guide frame 115 into the frame 110, reducing manufacturing difficulty and improving production efficiency.

[0089] In one embodiment, please refer to Figures 6-8 The limiting component 160 and the guide frame 115 are integrally formed. This further reduces manufacturing costs and improves the structural strength of the limiting component 160 and the guide frame 115.

[0090] The various embodiments / implementations provided in this application can be combined with each other without creating contradictions.

[0091] The above description is merely a preferred embodiment of this application and is not intended to limit the application. Various modifications and variations can be made to this application by those skilled in the art. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc., made within the spirit and principles of this application should be included within the scope of protection of this application.

Claims

1. A balancer configured to be able to make a circumferential motion in a balance ring of a laundry treating apparatus, characterized in that, The balancer (100) comprises: a frame (110); a plurality of brushes (120) arranged on the frame (110), each of the brushes (120) protruding from the same side of the frame (110) along a radial direction of a circumferential motion track, and each of the brushes (120) being arranged along a rotation axis of the balancer (100) in a spaced manner, and each of the brushes (120) being arranged in a recessed manner towards an inside of the frame (110) from a first side to a second side along the rotation axis of the balancer (100); the brushes (120) are slidably arranged with the frame (110) along the radial direction of the circumferential motion track, and the brushes (120) are capable of sliding towards the inside of the frame (110) under an external force; an outer surface of one side of the frame (110) along the radial direction of the circumferential motion track is formed with a continuous stepped structure (113), the continuous stepped structure (113) has a plurality of first stepped surfaces (113a) arranged along the rotation axis of the balancer (100) in a sequential manner, each of the brushes (120) penetrates through a corresponding first stepped surface (113a), and a distance between two adjacent first stepped surfaces (113a) along the radial direction of the circumferential motion track is greater than zero, and a distance between each of the first stepped surfaces (113a) and the rotation axis of the balancer (100) increases or decreases along the rotation axis of the balancer (100) in a sequential manner.

2. The balancer of claim 1, wherein, The brushes (120) protrude from the outside of the frame (110) along the radial direction of the circumferential motion track.

3. The balancer of claim 1, wherein, The balancer (100) comprises a spring (130) arranged on the frame (110), and the spring (130) applies a force to the brushes (120) to drive the brushes (120) to reset.

4. The balancer of claim 3, wherein, The frame (110) is formed with a plurality of insertion cavities (110a) arranged along the rotation axis of the balancer (100) in a sequential manner, a side wall of each of the insertion cavities (110a) along a sliding direction is provided with a insertion hole (110a'), a first end of each of the brushes (120) is located in a corresponding insertion cavity (110a), a second end of each of the brushes (120) extends out of the insertion cavity (110a) through the insertion hole (110a'), and the spring (130) is located in the insertion cavity (110a) and abuts against each of the brushes (120).

5. The balancer of claim 4, wherein, The frame (110) comprises a mounting rack (111) and a cover plate (112), the mounting rack (111) is formed with an insertion slot (111a), the insertion hole (110a') is located on an inner wall of the insertion slot (111a), a side of the insertion slot (111a) away from the insertion hole (110a') is open, and the cover plate (112) covers the opening of the insertion slot (111a) to jointly define the insertion cavity (110a).

6. The balancer of claim 1, wherein, Each of the first stepped surfaces (113a) is arranged at an equal interval along the radial direction of the circumferential motion track, and a maximum protruding height of each of the brushes (120) on a corresponding first stepped surface (113a) is the same.

7. The balancer of claim 1, wherein, The balancer (100) comprises a plurality of rolling groups (140) arranged along the rotation axis of the balancer (100) at intervals, each of the rolling groups (140) protruding from the same side of the vehicle frame (110) along the radial direction of the circumferential movement track, and arranged to be gradually recessed towards the inside of the vehicle frame (110) from the first side to the second side.

8. The balancer of claim 7, wherein, The rolling groups (140) protrude from the radial outer side of the vehicle frame (110) along the circumferential movement track.

9. The balancer of claim 7, wherein, All the brushes (120) are clamped between two adjacent rolling groups (140) along the rotation axis of the balancer (100).

10. A counterbalance assembly characterized by, The balancer (100) comprises: The balancer (100) according to any one of claims 1-6; The balancer (100) comprises: The balancer (100) comprises:

11. The counterbalance assembly of claim 10, wherein, The balancer (100) comprises: The rolling groups (140) are in rolling contact with the second step surfaces (211a').

12. The counterbalance assembly of claim 10, wherein, ​ 13. The counterbalance assembly of claim 12, wherein, The balancer (100) comprises two limiting members (160) arranged on the frame (110), the limiting members (160) protrude from the inner side of the circumferential motion track of the frame (110), and the two limiting members (160) are arranged at intervals along the rotation axis of the balancer, and the gear ring (230) is slidably arranged between the two limiting members (160). 14.A laundry treating apparatus, characterized by, Comprise: The balancing assembly according to any one of claims 10-13; And The balancing ring (200) is coaxially arranged with the washing drum and rotates synchronously with the washing drum.

Images