Connection structure of washing machine observation window and washing machine

Abstract

The present invention discloses a connection structure for a washing machine observation window and a washing machine, and relates to the technical field of washing machines. The connection structure for the washing machine observation window includes an observation window glass and a frame body, wherein the observation window glass is arranged in the frame body, and the frame body includes an inner frame, wherein the inner frame is fixedly connected to a hinge seat, and a hinge is fixedly connected to a door support, and the hinge cooperates with the hinge seat to allow the observation window to rotate relative to the door support. The inner frame is an injection molded part, and when the inner frame is injection molded, a metal connector is embedded in the inner frame, and is connected to the hinge seat through the metal connector. The connection structure for the washing machine observation window provided by the present invention avoids the problems of poor connection tightness and poor connection strength caused by the direct connection of the injection molded part with the hinge seat made of metal, effectively suppresses the loose connection caused by the deformation of the injection molded part after long-term use, and thus improves the problem of sagging of the observation window. A washing machine using the connection structure for the washing machine observation window improves the quality of the washing machine and the user experience.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to the technical field of washing machines, and in particular to a connection structure of a washing machine observation window and a washing machine. Background Art

[0002] A drum washing machine generally has a front-opening door, and the door body is connected to the front panel of the washing machine by a hinge. The door body is provided with an observation window with glass. By setting up the observation window, not only can the washing machine be closed to prevent water in the drum from overflowing, but the user can also observe the washing status in the drum at any time through the observation window.

[0003] To reduce the weight of the door, the frame supporting the observation window is constructed entirely of plastic, while the hinges and hinge base connecting the door body to the door support are metal. In existing technology, the hinge base is secured to the frame supporting the observation window using screws. However, due to the different material properties of the hinge base and the frame supporting the observation window, the connection between the two is poor. Furthermore, the connection strength between the plastic part and the metal screws is weak, making them prone to breakage during the connection process. Furthermore, the plastic part exhibits poor creep resistance, and the connection between the plastic part and the screws can loosen after prolonged use, easily causing the observation window to sag. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The object of the present invention is to provide a connection structure of an observation window of a washing machine and a washing machine, wherein the connection structure of the observation window of the washing machine prevents the observation window from sagging, thereby improving the quality and service life of the washing machine.

[0005] To achieve this object, the present invention adopts the following technical solutions:

[0006] A connection structure for an observation window of a washing machine, comprising:

[0007] Observation window glass;

[0008] A frame, wherein the observation window glass is disposed within the frame, the frame comprising an inner frame fixedly connected to a hinge seat, a hinge fixedly connected to the door support, the hinge cooperating with the hinge seat to enable the observation window to rotate relative to the door support;

[0009] The inner frame is an injection-molded part. When the inner frame is injection-molded, a metal connector is embedded in the inner frame and is connected to the hinge seat via the metal connector.

[0010] As a preferred embodiment of the connection structure for the washing machine observation window, the metal connector is a metal nut. The hinge base is provided with a first connection hole, through which a fastening screw passes, threadedly connected to the metal nut. The metal connector is a metal nut, and the fastening screw passes through the first connection hole and threadedly connected to the threads within the metal nut. Compared to directly connecting the fastening screw to the injection molded part, the addition of the metal nut significantly increases the strength of the metal nut. Furthermore, the metal-to-metal connection strength is higher than the metal-to-injection molded part connection strength, significantly suppressing hinge base loosening caused by deformation of the injection molded part and thereby improving sagging of the observation window.

[0011] As a preferred embodiment of the connection structure for the washing machine observation window, a plurality of metal nuts are provided, one corresponding to each of the first connection holes, and the inner frame is connected to the hinge base via a plurality of fastening screws. To ensure the stability of the connection between the hinge base and the inner frame, the hinge base is fixed to the inner frame via a plurality of fastening screws.

[0012] As a preferred embodiment of the connection structure for the washing machine observation window, one end of the metal nut protrudes from the end surface of the inner frame, and the height of the metal nut protruding from the end surface of the inner frame is the same as the thickness of the hinge base. This arrangement allows the end of the metal nut protruding from the inner frame to extend into the first connection hole of the hinge base, the head of the fastening bolt abuts the end surface of the hinge base, and the stud and the metal nut are threadedly engaged, thereby securing the hinge base to the inner frame.

[0013] As a preferred solution for the connection structure of the washing machine observation window, the metal nut is loosely fitted with the first connection hole, thereby avoiding wear caused by friction between the metal nut and the first connection hole.

[0014] As a preferred solution for the connection structure of a washing machine observation window, the metal nut is provided with multiple latching posts at intervals around its periphery, each of which is embedded in the inner frame. The provision of these latching posts strengthens the connection between the injection molded part and the metal nut during casting of the inner frame. After casting, the latching posts are embedded in the inner frame, making it difficult for the metal nut to separate from the inner frame.

[0015] As a preferred embodiment of the connection structure for the washing machine observation window, the metal connector is a metal connecting post. The hinge base is provided with a second connecting hole, and the metal connecting post has an interference fit with the second connecting hole. By interfering with the metal connecting post or welding the second connecting hole, the hinge base can also be connected to the inner frame, increasing the connection strength and preventing the observation window from sagging.

[0016] As a preferred solution for the connection structure of the washing machine observation window, the hinge base is provided with a hinge shaft. The hinge is provided with two spaced-apart rotating arms. Each of the rotating arms has a hinge hole on its opposite side. The two ends of the hinge shaft are respectively hinged to the two hinge holes. By making the hinge shaft as long as possible and positioning it on the hinge base, the stability of the washing machine observation window is effectively improved, and the stress and sagging issues are alleviated.

[0017] As a preferred embodiment of the connection structure for the washing machine observation window, the hinge base is further provided with a sleeve, within which the hinge shaft is secured. The sleeve is integrally formed with the hinge base, and the hinge shaft is sleeved within the sleeve, with both ends extending from the sleeve. The hinge shaft within the sleeve is welded to the sleeve. The hinge holes on the two rotating arms of the hinge are respectively connected to the ends of the hinge shaft, allowing the observation window to rotate relative to the door support to open or close the door.

[0018] A washing machine comprises the connection structure of the washing machine observation window as described in any of the above solutions.

[0019] Beneficial effects of the present invention:

[0020] The connection structure for a washing machine observation window provided by the present invention comprises a frame for fixing the observation window glass, including an inner frame, which is an injection-molded part. During the injection molding of the inner frame, a metal connector is embedded in the inner frame and connected to a hinge seat via the metal connector. The hinge seat is then connected to a hinge fixed to a door support to open or close the door. This avoids the problems of poor connection tightness and connection strength caused by directly connecting the injection-molded part to the metal hinge seat, effectively suppresses loose connection caused by deformation of the injection-molded part over long-term use, and thus improves the problem of sagging of the observation window. The connection structure for a washing machine observation window provided by the present invention effectively improves the problem of sagging of the observation window, thereby enhancing the quality of the washing machine and the user experience.

[0021] The washing machine provided by the present invention uses the above-mentioned connection structure of the washing machine observation window, which can improve the connection strength of the observation window, avoid the problem of the door body being unable to close due to the sagging of the observation window, improve the quality and service life of the washing machine, and provide a good user experience. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0022] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the connection structure of the washing machine observation window provided in the first embodiment of the present invention;

[0023] Figure 2 This is an exploded schematic diagram of the inner frame, hinge seat, metal connector and fastening screws of the washing machine observation window provided in the first embodiment of the present invention;

[0024] Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view of the connection structure of the washing machine observation window provided in the first embodiment of the present invention;

[0025] Figure 4 yes Figure 3 A partial enlarged view of point A in the middle;

[0026] Figure 5 It is a structural schematic diagram of the metal nut provided in Example 1 of the present invention.

[0027] In the picture:

[0028] 1. Observation window glass; 2. Inner frame; 3. Hinge base; 4. Metal nut; 5. Rotating arm; 6. Fastening screws;

[0029] 31. First connecting hole; 32. Sleeve; 33. Articulated shaft; 41. Snap-fit ​​column. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0030] The following describes embodiments of the present invention in detail. Examples of the embodiments are shown in the accompanying drawings, wherein the same or similar reference numerals throughout represent the same or similar elements or elements having the same or similar functions. The embodiments described below with reference to the accompanying drawings are exemplary and are intended to explain the present invention, but are not to be construed as limiting the present invention.

[0031] In the description of the present invention, it should be noted that the terms "center," "up," "down," "left," "right," "vertical," "horizontal," "inside," and "outside" and the like, indicating orientations or positional relationships, are based on the orientations or positional relationships shown in the accompanying drawings and are intended solely to facilitate the description of the present invention and simplify the description. They are not intended to indicate or imply that the devices or components referred to must have a specific orientation, be constructed, or operate in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on the present invention. Furthermore, the terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance. The terms "first position" and "second position" refer to two different positions.

[0032] Unless otherwise expressly specified or limited, the terms "mounted," "connected," "connect," and "fixed" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they may refer to fixed or removable connections; mechanical or electrical connections; direct or indirect connections through an intermediary; and internal communication between two components or interaction between two components. Those skilled in the art will understand the specific meanings of these terms in the present invention based on specific circumstances.

[0033] Unless otherwise expressly specified or limited, a first feature being "above" or "below" a second feature may include the first feature being in direct contact with the second feature, or may include the first feature being in contact with the second feature through another feature between them instead of being in direct contact. Furthermore, a first feature being "above," "above," and "above" a second feature may include the first feature being directly above or obliquely above the second feature, or may simply mean that the first feature is higher in level than the second feature. A first feature being "below," "below," and "below" a second feature may include the first feature being directly below or obliquely below the second feature, or may simply mean that the first feature is lower in level than the second feature.

[0034] The technical solution of the present invention will be further described below with reference to the accompanying drawings and through specific implementation methods.

[0035] Example 1:

[0036] like Figure 1-Figure 4 As shown, this embodiment provides a connection structure for a washing machine observation window, comprising an observation window glass 1 and a frame. The observation window glass 1 is disposed within the frame, which includes an inner frame 2 fixedly connected to a hinge base 3. A hinge is fixedly connected to a door support, and the hinge cooperates with the hinge base 3 to allow the observation window to rotate relative to the door support. The inner frame 2 is an injection-molded part. During the injection molding process, a metal connector is embedded within the inner frame 2, which is connected to the hinge base 3 via the metal connector.

[0037] The connection structure of the washing machine observation window provided in this embodiment includes a frame for fixing the observation window glass 1, including an inner frame 2. The inner frame 2 is an injection-molded part. When the inner frame 2 is injection-molded, a metal connector is embedded in the inner frame 2 and connected to the hinge seat 3 via the metal connector. The hinge seat 3 is then connected to a hinge fixed to the door support to open or close the door. This avoids the problems of poor connection tightness and connection strength caused by the direct connection of the injection-molded part to the metal hinge seat 3, effectively suppresses the loose connection caused by the deformation of the injection-molded part over long-term use, and thus improves the problem of sagging of the washing machine observation window. The connection structure of the washing machine observation window provided in this embodiment effectively improves the problem of sagging of the washing machine observation window, improving the quality of the washing machine and the user experience.

[0038] In this embodiment, the observation window glass 1 is a circular glass with an inwardly concave center. The frame also includes an outer frame. The inner frame 2 and the inner ring of the outer frame clamp the outer edge of the observation window glass 1. The inner frame 2 and the outer frame are connected by a connector on the side near the observation window glass 1 to secure the observation window glass 1. Then, a hinge base 3 is fixed to the inner frame 2, and the hinge is fixed to the door support. The hinge base 3 and the hinge cooperate to allow the washing machine observation window to rotate relative to the door support, thereby sealing the washing machine to prevent water from overflowing from the drum. The user can observe the washing process in the drum through the washing machine observation window.

[0039] In this embodiment, the inner frame 2 is an injection-molded part. To manufacture the inner frame 2, a mold is first prepared, and then a liquid monomer or polymer is cast into the mold. During the casting process, the metal connector is placed in a designated position within the mold. Casting is then performed, allowing the metal connector to be integrally molded within the inner frame 2. The metal connector is then connected to the hinge base 3. The designated position is where the hinge base 3 connects to the inner frame 2.

[0040] As an optional solution for the connection structure of the washing machine observation window, the metal connector is a metal nut 4. The hinge base 3 is provided with a first connection hole 31, through which a fastening screw 6 passes, threadedly connected to the metal nut 4. The metal connector is configured as a metal nut 4, and the fastening screw 6 passes through the first connection hole 31 and threadedly connects to the threads within the metal nut 4. Compared to directly connecting the fastening screw 6 to the injection molded part, the addition of the metal nut 4, on the one hand, improves the strength of the metal nut 4 and on the other hand, the metal-to-metal connection strength is higher than the metal-to-injection connection strength. This significantly reduces the loosening of the hinge base 3 caused by deformation of the injection molded part, thereby improving the sagging of the washing machine observation window.

[0041] like Figure 5 As shown in FIG. 1 , as a preferred embodiment of the connection structure for a washing machine observation window, a plurality of clamping posts 41 are spaced apart on the periphery of the metal nut 4 , and each of the plurality of clamping posts 41 is embedded in the inner frame 2 . During the casting of the inner frame 2 , the provision of the plurality of clamping posts 41 increases the connection strength between the injection molded part and the metal nut 4 . After casting, the clamping posts 41 are embedded in the inner frame 2 , making it difficult for the metal nut 4 to separate from the inner frame 2 .

[0042] As a preferred embodiment of the connection structure for the washing machine observation window, multiple metal nuts 4 are provided, corresponding one to each first connection hole 31. Multiple fastening screws 6 are used to connect the inner frame 2 to the hinge base 3. To ensure the stability of the connection between the hinge base 3 and the inner frame 2, the hinge base 3 is fixed to the inner frame 2 via multiple fastening screws 6. In this embodiment, the specific number of fastening screws 6 is not limited and can be set according to the shape and area of ​​the hinge base 3.

[0043] In this embodiment, the inner frame 2 is annular, and the hinge base 3 is disposed on one side of the annular inner frame 2. The shape of the hinge base 3 matches the annular shape of the annular inner frame 2. The hinge base 3 is provided with a total of nine first connection holes 31, and nine corresponding metal nuts 4 are provided on the inner frame 2. The hinge base 3 has four first connection holes 31 on the side of the inner frame 2 away from the observation window glass 1, three first connection holes 31 on the side closer to the observation window glass 1, and two more first connection holes 31 between the four first connection holes 31 and the three first connection holes 31. The metal nuts 4 on the inner frame 2 are arranged in a one-to-one correspondence with the first connection holes 31 on the hinge base 3. The layout of the first connection holes 31 on the hinge base 3 and the metal nuts 4 on the inner frame 2 ensures the stability of the connection between the inner frame 2 and the hinge base 3, further reducing the risk of the washing machine's observation window sagging.

[0044] As a preferred embodiment of the connection structure for the washing machine's observation window, one end of the metal nut 4 protrudes from the end surface of the inner frame 2. The height of the metal nut 4 protruding from the end surface of the inner frame 2 is the same as the thickness of the hinge base 3. This arrangement allows the end of the metal nut 4 protruding from the inner frame 2 to extend into the first connection hole 31 of the hinge base 3. The head of the fastening screw 6 abuts the end surface of the hinge base 3, and the stud is threadedly engaged with the metal nut 4, thereby securing the hinge base 3 to the inner frame 2.

[0045] As a preferred embodiment of the connection structure of the washing machine observation window, the metal nut 4 is loosely fitted into the first connection hole 31. In this embodiment, the end of the metal nut 4 protruding from the end surface of the inner frame 2 is loosely fitted into the first connection hole 31, thereby preventing wear caused by friction between the metal nut 4 and the first connection hole 31.

[0046] In another alternative embodiment of the present invention, a connection structure for a washing machine observation window is provided. The metal connector is a metal connecting post. A second connecting hole is provided on the hinge base 3, and the metal connecting post has an interference fit with the second connecting hole. By interfering with the metal connecting post or welding the second connecting hole, the hinge base 3 can be connected to the inner frame 2, thereby increasing the connection strength and preventing the washing machine observation window from sagging.

[0047] As a preferred embodiment of the connection structure for the washing machine's observation window, a hinge shaft 33 is provided on the hinge base 3. Two pivot arms 5 are spaced apart on the hinge, each with a hinge hole provided on opposite sides. The ends of the hinge shaft 33 are respectively connected to the two hinge holes. In this embodiment, by maximizing the length of the hinge shaft 33 and positioning it on the hinge base 3, the stability of the observation window during the opening and closing of the washing machine door is effectively improved, alleviating stress and sagging issues.

[0048] As a preferred embodiment of the connection structure for the washing machine observation window, the hinge base 3 is further provided with a sleeve 32, within which a hinge shaft 33 is secured. In this embodiment, the sleeve 32 and hinge base 3 are integrally formed. The hinge shaft 33 is sleeved within the sleeve 32, with both ends extending from the sleeve 32. The hinge shaft 33 within the sleeve 32 is welded to the sleeve 32. The hinge holes on the two rotating arms 5 of the hinge are respectively connected to the ends of the hinge shaft 33, allowing the washing machine observation window to rotate relative to the door support to open or close the door.

[0049] Example 2:

[0050] This embodiment provides a washing machine, including the connection structure for the observation window of the washing machine described in Example 1. The door of the washing machine includes an observation window glass 1, a frame, a hinge base 3, and a door catch. The top surface of the observation window glass 1 is a flat, round, transparent material, making it easy to check the washing status of the clothes in the washing machine. The frame includes an inner frame 2 and an outer frame. The inner and outer frames clamp and secure the outer edges of the observation window glass 1. The inner and outer frames are connected by a connector on the side near the observation window glass 1 to secure the observation window glass 1. The hinge base 3 is fixed to one side of the inner frame 2, and the door catch is fixed to the other side of the inner frame 2. The hinge base 3 and the door catch are arranged opposite each other. A hinge is provided on the door support, and a hinge shaft 33 is provided on the hinge base 3. The two hinge arms 5 of the hinge are each provided with a hinge hole on opposite sides. The ends of the hinge shaft 33 are respectively connected to the two hinge holes, allowing the user to pull the door body to rotate using the door catch.

[0051] The observation window glass 1 is heavy, tempered glass. To reduce the weight of the door, both the inner and outer frames are injection molded. The hinge base 3 is metal, and the connection between metal and injection molded parts is weak. By adding a metal connector to the inner frame 2, the connection between the metal and injection molded parts is strengthened, preventing the washing machine observation window from sagging.

[0052] The washing machine provided in this embodiment uses the connection structure of the washing machine observation window provided in Example 1, which can improve the connection strength of the washing machine observation window, avoid the problem of the door body not being able to close due to the sagging of the washing machine observation window, improve the quality and service life of the washing machine, and provide a good user experience.

[0053] The above contents are only preferred embodiments of the present invention. For ordinary technicians in this field, according to the concept of the present invention, there may be changes in the specific implementation methods and application scopes. The contents of this specification should not be understood as limiting the present invention.

Claims

1. A connection structure for a washing machine observation window, characterized in that: include: Observation window glass (1); A frame, wherein the observation window glass (1) is arranged in the frame, the frame comprising an inner frame (2), the inner frame (2) being fixedly connected to a hinge seat (3), a hinge being fixedly connected to the door support, the hinge cooperating with the hinge seat (3) so that the observation window can rotate relative to the door support; The inner frame (2) is an injection-molded part. When the inner frame (2) is injection-molded, a metal connector is embedded in the inner frame (2) and is connected to the hinge seat (3) via the metal connector. The metal connecting piece is a metal nut (4), a first connecting hole (31) is provided on the hinge seat (3), and a fastening screw (6) passes through the first connecting hole (31) and is screwed to the metal nut (4); A plurality of clamping columns (41) are arranged at intervals on the outer periphery of the metal nut (4), and the plurality of clamping columns (41) are all embedded in the inner frame (2).

2. The connection structure of the washing machine observation window according to claim 1, characterized in that: A plurality of the metal nuts (4) and the first connection holes (31) are provided in a one-to-one correspondence, and the inner frame (2) and the hinge seat (3) are connected via a plurality of the fastening screws (6).

3. The connection structure of the washing machine observation window according to claim 2, characterized in that: One end of the metal nut (4) is arranged to protrude from the end surface of the inner frame (2), and the height of the metal nut (4) protruding from the end surface of the inner frame (2) is the same as the thickness of the hinge seat (3).

4. The connection structure of the washing machine observation window according to claim 3, characterized in that: The metal nut (4) is clearance-fitted with the first connecting hole (31).

5. The connection structure of the washing machine observation window according to claim 1, characterized in that: The metal connecting piece is a metal connecting column, a second connecting hole is provided on the hinge seat (3), and the metal connecting column is interference-fitted with the second connecting hole.

6. The connection structure of the observation window of the washing machine according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that: The hinge seat (3) is provided with a hinge shaft (33), and two rotating arms (5) are provided on the hinge at intervals. The two rotating arms (5) are provided with hinge holes on opposite sides, and the two ends of the hinge shaft (33) are respectively hinged to the two hinge holes.

7. The connection structure of the washing machine observation window according to claim 6, characterized in that: The hinge seat (3) is further provided with a sleeve (32), and the hinge shaft (33) is fixed in the sleeve (32).

8. A washing machine, characterized in that: The invention comprises the connection structure of the observation window of the washing machine according to any one of claims 1 to 7.

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