Washing machine and control method thereof

Abstract

The present invention discloses a washing machine and a control method thereof. The washing machine includes a tub assembly connected to a sewage drainage assembly and a clean water drainage assembly. The control method comprises the following steps: before the start of the rinsing process, determining whether the clean water drainage assembly has received an instruction to collect wash water; if so, pausing drainage at the end of the rinsing process, starting a timer, and issuing a reminder command; if the instruction to collect wash water is received within a set time, controlling the clean water drainage assembly to drain water; if the instruction to collect wash water is not received within the set time, controlling the sewage drainage assembly to drain water after the set time has elapsed. The present invention allows users to independently set whether to retain and reuse wash water, thereby not only saving water resources but also greatly improving the user experience.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention belongs to the technical field of washing machines, and in particular relates to a washing machine and a drainage assembly thereof. Background Art

[0002] my country is short of water resources, and the amount and proportion of water used in people's daily life are increasing, especially the amount and proportion of water consumed in washing. Therefore, saving water in washing is becoming more and more important.

[0003] The existing automatic washing machine follows the washing procedure of power on → initial wash water filling → initial wash → initial wash drainage → initial wash spin-drying → first rinse water filling → first rinse wash → first rinse drainage → first rinse spin-drying → second rinse water filling → second rinse wash → second rinse drainage → second rinse spin-drying → third rinse water filling → third rinse wash → third rinse drainage → third rinse spin-drying → washing machine shutdown → power off. Some washing procedures even require a fourth rinse process. However, in the rinsing process after the third rinse, the detergent content in the washing water has reached a relatively low level. If this part of the washing water is directly discharged into the sewer, a large amount of water resources will be wasted.

[0004] In view of this, the present invention is proposed. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The technical problem to be solved by the present invention is to overcome the shortcomings of the existing technology and provide a control method for a washing machine, which can independently set whether the washing water needs to be retained and reused according to user needs, which not only saves water resources but also greatly improves the user experience.

[0006] Another object of the present invention is to provide a washing machine for implementing the above control method.

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

[0008] A control method for a washing machine, the washing machine comprising a tub assembly, the tub assembly being connected to a sewage drainage assembly and a clean water drainage assembly;

[0009] The control method includes the following steps:

[0010] Before the rinsing process begins, it is determined whether the water purification and drainage component has received an instruction to collect washing water. If so, the drainage is suspended at the end of the rinsing process and a timer is started and a reminder command is issued;

[0011] If the instruction to collect washing water is received within the set time, the clean water drainage component is controlled to drain water. If the instruction to collect washing water is not received within the set time, the sewage drainage component is controlled to drain water after the set time.

[0012] Furthermore, if a drainage instruction is received within a set time, the sewage drainage component is immediately started to drain water.

[0013] Furthermore, the washing machine includes a control panel, on which a water retention function key, a drainage key, and a water retention key are provided;

[0014] The instruction to collect wash water is received before the rinsing process begins, including:

[0015] The instruction to collect washing water is received when the time for the water retaining function key and the water retaining key to be pressed simultaneously exceeds a set threshold;

[0016] Receive instructions to collect wash water within a set time, including:

[0017] Receiving that the water retention key is pressed for a time period exceeding a set threshold value is a receipt of an instruction to collect wash water;

[0018] Receive a drainage instruction within the set time, including:

[0019] The drainage instruction is received when the time for the water retention function key and the drainage key to be pressed simultaneously exceeds a set threshold.

[0020] Furthermore, after receiving the instruction to collect washing water, the control unit of the washing machine memorizes the instruction and receives the instruction by default before the next washing program.

[0021] Furthermore, if a drainage instruction is received during the drainage process of the clean water drainage component, the sewage drainage component is controlled to start, and the clean water drainage component is controlled to close.

[0022] A washing machine is used to execute the control method described above.

[0023] Furthermore, a sewage drain outlet and a clean water drain outlet are provided at the bottom of the barrel assembly, and the sewage drain assembly and the clean water drain assembly are connected to the sewage drain outlet and the clean water drain outlet respectively.

[0024] Furthermore, a drain port is provided at the bottom of the barrel assembly, and the drain port is connected to a drainage pipe, and the drainage pipe is selectively connected to the sewage drainage assembly and the clean water drainage assembly through a switching unit.

[0025] Furthermore, the water purification and drainage assembly includes:

[0026] a drain valve, connected to the drain port of the barrel assembly;

[0027] A water pipe, one end of which is connected to the drain valve and the other end of which is a water outlet;

[0028] The water purification device is arranged on the pipeline of the water delivery pipe and below the barrel assembly.

[0029] Furthermore, the water purification and drainage assembly further includes:

[0030] The water pump is arranged on the pipeline of the water delivery pipe and is located downstream of the water purification device in the water flow direction.

[0031] After adopting the above technical solution, the present invention has the following beneficial effects compared with the prior art.

[0032] 1. The present invention not only allows the user to independently set whether to retain and reuse the washing water according to needs, but also prevents the washing water in the washing tub from being unable to be discharged for a long time by setting a set time, thereby affecting the washing effect of clothes and prolonging the washing time.

[0033] 2. The present invention sets a water retention function key, a drainage key and a water retention key on the control panel. When the user sends an instruction to collect washing water or a drainage instruction to the control unit of the washing machine, the above-mentioned keys set on the control panel can be operated, which is convenient to operate.

[0034] 3. The present invention sets sewage drain outlets and clean water drain outlets at different positions on the bottom wall of the barrel assembly, so as to discharge sewage and clean water separately, thereby avoiding the cross-use of sewage and clean water using the same drain outlet and drain pipe, causing the clean water to be contaminated by dirt, affecting the washing effect and the utilization effect of the clean water.

[0035] The specific embodiments of the present invention will be described in further detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0036] The accompanying drawings are part of the present invention and are used to provide a further understanding of the present invention. The exemplary embodiments of the present invention and their descriptions are used to explain the present invention, but do not constitute an undue limitation of the present invention. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments. For those of ordinary skill in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without inventive effort. In the accompanying drawings:

[0037] Figure 1 1. It is a flow chart of the washing machine control method of the present invention;

[0038] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of a control panel of a washing machine according to the present invention;

[0039] Figure 3 It is a schematic diagram of a state of the drainage component of the present invention;

[0040] Figure 4 is another schematic diagram of the drainage assembly of the present invention;

[0041] Figure 5 It is a structural schematic diagram of the tensioning mechanism of the present invention;

[0042] Figure 6 It is a structural schematic diagram of the self-locking device of the present invention;

[0043] Figure 7 It is a structural schematic diagram of the fixed clamping portion of the present invention;

[0044] Figure 8 It is a structural schematic diagram of the movable clamping portion of the present invention;

[0045] Figure 9 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the self-locking device of the present invention;

[0046] Figure 10 Schematic diagram of the self-locking device of the present invention locking the water pipe;

[0047] Figure 11 It is a schematic diagram of the self-locking device of the present invention releasing the water pipe;

[0048] Figure 12 It is a schematic structural diagram of the washing machine of the present invention;

[0049] Figure 13 2 is a schematic diagram of the external structure of the washing machine of the present invention;

[0050] Figure 14 It is a schematic diagram of the working principle of the washing machine of the present invention.

[0051] In the figure: 1. Box body; 11. Cover plate; 12. Adapter bracket; 13. Fixing clip;

[0052] 2. Bucket assembly; 21. Drain outlet;

[0053] 3. Water purification and drainage components;

[0054] 31. Water pipe; 311. Sprinkler head; 312. Water pump;

[0055] 32. Tensioning mechanism; 321. Movable pulley; 322. Tension spring; 323. Fixed pulley; 324. Fixed column; 325. Guardrail; 326. Base;

[0056] 33. Self-locking device; 331. Fixed clamping portion; 3311. Fixed frame; 3312. First curved wall; 3313. Extended wall; 3314. Connecting wall; 3315. First reinforcing plate; 3316. Slot; 3317. Hollow tube; 3318. Rib; 332. Movable clamping portion; 3321. Movable frame; 3322. Second curved wall; 3323. Protruding teeth; 3324. Raised ring; 3325. Avoidance groove; 333. First torsion arm; 334. Second torsion arm; 335. Second reinforcing plate; 336. Opening portion; 3361. Push column; 3362. Spring; 3363. Position-limiting rib;

[0057] 4. Sewage drainage components;

[0058] 5. Control panel; 51. Water retention function key; 52. Drain key; 53. Water retention key; 54. Start key.

[0059] It should be noted that these drawings and textual descriptions are not intended to limit the conceptual scope of the present invention in any way, but rather to illustrate the concept of the present invention for those skilled in the art by referring to specific embodiments. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0060] In order to make the purpose, technical solutions and advantages of the embodiments of the present invention clearer, the technical solutions in the embodiments will be clearly and completely described below in conjunction with the drawings in the embodiments of the present invention. The following embodiments are used to illustrate the present invention but are not used to limit the scope of the present invention.

[0061] In the description of the present invention, it should be noted that the terms "upper", "lower", "front", "back", "left", "right", "vertical", "inside", "outside", etc., indicating directions or positional relationships, are based on the directions or positional relationships shown in the accompanying drawings. They are only for the convenience of describing the present invention and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific direction, be constructed and operated in a specific direction. Therefore, they cannot be understood as limiting the present invention.

[0062] In the description of the present invention, it should be noted that, unless otherwise expressly specified or limited, the terms "mounted," "connected," and "connected" should be understood broadly. For example, they may refer to fixed, detachable, or integral connections; mechanical or electrical connections; and direct or indirect connections through an intermediary. Those skilled in the art will understand the specific meanings of the above terms in the present invention based on the specific circumstances.

[0063] like Figures 1 to 14The present invention provides a washing machine and a control method thereof. The washing machine includes a housing 1, within which is disposed a tub assembly 2 having a clothing loading port and a drain outlet 21. Drain outlet 21 is connected to a sewage drain assembly 4 for discharging highly turbid sewage and a clean water drain assembly 3 for discharging less turbid clean water.

[0064] The control method of the washing machine comprises the following steps:

[0065] Before the rinsing process begins, it is determined whether the water purification and drainage component has received an instruction to collect washing water. If so, the drainage is suspended at the end of the rinsing process and a timer is started and a reminder command is issued;

[0066] If the instruction to collect wash water is received within the set time, the clean water drainage component 3 is controlled to drain the water. If the instruction to collect wash water is not received within the set time, the sewage drainage component 4 is controlled to drain the water after the set time. Preferably, the set time ranges from 5 minutes to 15 minutes, preferably 10 minutes.

[0067] Detailed, such as Figure 1 As shown, after the user turns on the washing machine, he sets the required washing program according to his needs, such as a mixed washing program, a cotton and linen washing program, or a gentle washing program. After setting the required washing program, he also needs to set the drainage method during the rinsing process.

[0068] If the user does not want to retain water, the user can directly press the start button 54 after setting the washing program, and the washing machine will run according to the preset instructions of the washing program until the program ends and the washing task is completed.

[0069] If the user wishes to retain water, after setting the wash program and before pressing the start button 54, the washing machine's control unit and clean water drain assembly 3 must be programmed to perform drainage during the rinsing cycle. At this point, the washing machine's control unit and clean water drain assembly 3 receive the user's instruction to collect wash water. Afterward, when the user presses the start button 54, the washing machine begins operation. At the end of the rinsing cycle, the clean water drain assembly 3 is not immediately activated. Instead, the draining process is paused, a timer is started, and a reminder is issued to the user, prompting them to manually retain water for use with other laundry or for storage. If the washing machine receives the instruction to activate the clean water drain assembly 3 within the set time, it controls the clean water drain assembly 3 to activate and drain the wash water from the wash tub. If the washing machine does not receive the instruction to activate the clean water drain assembly 3 within the set time, the dirty water drain assembly 4 is directly activated after the set time expires to drain the wash water from the wash tub.

[0070] The above solution not only allows the user to independently set whether to retain and reuse the washing water according to needs, but also prevents the washing water in the washing tub from being unable to be discharged for a long time by setting a set time, affecting the washing effect of clothes and prolonging the washing time.

[0071] In a further solution, if a drainage instruction is received within a set time, the sewage drainage component 4 is immediately started to drain the water.

[0072] In detail, although the user sets a command for the clean water drainage component 3 to drain water during the rinsing process before the start of the rinsing process, when the washing machine runs to the drainage timing of the rinsing process and pauses drainage to wait for the user to issue a command to start the clean water drainage component 3 within the set time, if the user changes his intention to retain water, he can also directly issue a command to start the sewage drainage component 4 within the set time. At this time, the washing machine does not have to wait for the set time to pass, and will immediately start the sewage drainage component 4 to drain water after receiving the command to start the sewage drainage component 4.

[0073] The above solution can further enhance the user's right to make independent choices and improve the user experience.

[0074] In some embodiments of the present invention, Figure 2 As shown, the washing machine includes a control panel 5, on which a water retention function key 51, a drainage key 52 and a water retention key 53 are provided. The water retention function key 51, the drainage key 52 and the water retention key 53 are all electrically connected to the control unit of the washing machine.

[0075] Receiving an instruction to collect wash water before the start of the rinsing process includes: receiving an instruction for the water collection function key 51 and the water collection key 53 to be pressed simultaneously for a time exceeding a set threshold, thereby receiving an instruction for the water purification and drainage component 3 to perform the drainage task during the rinsing process. The set threshold range is 3s-10s, preferably 5s.

[0076] The instruction to collect washing water is received within the set time, comprising: receiving the instruction to collect washing water when the time for pressing the water retaining key 53 exceeds a set threshold, wherein the range of the set threshold is 1s-3s, preferably 2s.

[0077] Receiving the drainage instruction within the set time includes: receiving the drainage instruction when the water retention function key 51 and the drainage key 52 are pressed simultaneously for a time period exceeding a set threshold value, wherein the set threshold value ranges from 3s to 10s, preferably 5s.

[0078] In detail, a water retention function key 51, a drainage key 52 and a water retention key 53 are set on the control panel 5. When the user sends an instruction to the washing machine whether to collect washing water or drain water, it can be achieved by operating the above-mentioned keys set on the control panel 5, which is easy to operate.

[0079] In addition, since the instruction for the water purification and drainage component 3 to perform the drainage task during the rinsing process is issued before the washing program is run, it is a preset instruction for changing the washing program. Therefore, by simultaneously pressing the water retention function key 51 and the water retention key 53 to exceed the set threshold value as a standard for judging whether the instruction for the water purification and drainage component 3 to perform the drainage task during the rinsing process is received, it can accurately reflect the user's intention and avoid the phenomenon of issuing wrong instructions due to erroneous operations such as accidental touch and accidental collision.

[0080] However, when the user has already issued an instruction for the water purification and drainage component 3 to perform the drainage task during the rinsing process, it indicates that the user strongly desires to use the water purification and drainage component 3 to perform the drainage task during the rinsing process. Therefore, during the set time waiting for the user's instruction, the user only needs to press the water retention key 53, and the washing machine will recognize that it has received the instruction to collect the wash water. It can be seen that the control logic of the above solution is clear, concise, and easy for the user to operate.

[0081] In some other embodiments of the present invention, the sending of the above instructions can also be achieved by the user through a smart terminal or a voice control system on the washing machine.

[0082] Furthermore, if the user changes their mind and decides to retain water during the rinse cycle and pauses to wait for the user to initiate the clean water drainage component 3, thereby activating the wastewater drainage component 4, an action that reflects the user's strong desire is still required. Therefore, the present invention employs logic that determines when the water retention function key 51 and the drainage key 52 have been pressed simultaneously for a time exceeding a set threshold, thereby improving the safety of washing machine operation.

[0083] In a further solution, after receiving the instruction to collect washing water, the control unit of the washing machine memorizes the instruction and receives the instruction by default before the next washing program.

[0084] In detail, the control unit of the washing machine has a memory function. If the user sets the water retention function through the water retention function key 51 and the water retention key 53, the control unit of the washing machine will memorize the instruction and issue the instruction by default when the user uses the washing machine in the future.

[0085] The above solution can simplify user operations and improve user experience.

[0086] In addition, if the user wants to cancel the instruction memorized by the washing machine, he can press the water retention function key 51 and the water drainage key 52 simultaneously for more than a set threshold value. The range of the set threshold value is 3s-10s, preferably 5s.

[0087] At this point, the washing machine is set to use conventional sewage drainage.

[0088] In a further embodiment, the water drain button 52 and the water retention button 53 also include indicator lights to show whether they are selected.

[0089] When the user selects the clean water drainage component 3 to perform the drainage task during the rinsing process, the indicator lights of the water retention function key 52 and the water retention key 53 are always on, and the indicator light of the drainage key 52 is always off. When the user selects the sewage drainage component 4 to perform the drainage task during the rinsing process, the indicator light of the drainage key 52 is always on, and the indicator lights of the water retention function key 52 and the water retention key 53 are always off.

[0090] The above solution enables the user to clearly know which drainage method is currently adopted by the washing machine during the rinsing stage.

[0091] In some embodiments of the present invention, if an instruction to start the sewage drainage component 4 is received during the process of controlling the drainage of the clean water drainage component 3, the sewage drainage component 4 is controlled to start, and the clean water drainage component 3 is controlled to shut down.

[0092] Specifically, if the user activates the water purification drainage component 3 to drain water within a set time range and wishes to switch to the sewage drainage component 4, the user can directly activate the sewage drainage component 4 by simultaneously pressing the water retention function key 51 and the drainage key 52 for a period exceeding a set threshold. Upon receiving the instruction to activate the sewage drainage component 4, the washing machine controls the sewage drainage component 4 to activate and the water purification drainage component 3 to deactivate.

[0093] The above solution enables users to flexibly choose the drainage method, and is very practical in some special application scenarios, for example, when the volume of the container for storing clean water is small and insufficient to accommodate all the washing water.

[0094] Furthermore, after the user drains the water using the water purification and drainage assembly 3, he presses the start button 54 of the washing machine again, and the washing machine executes the remaining process of the washing program.

[0095] In the preferred embodiment, the rinsing process includes one rinse, two rinses, and three rinses. Generally speaking, the washing water that the user wants to retain for reuse is the washing water during the last rinse. Of course, the washing water of the last two rinses can also be retained for reuse according to actual conditions.

[0096] It can be understood that the water outlet of the sewage drainage component 4 is generally connected to the floor drain in the user's home.

[0097] In some embodiments of the present invention, a sewage drain outlet 21 and a clean water drain outlet 21 are provided at the bottom of the barrel assembly 2, and the sewage drain assembly 4 and the clean water drain assembly 3 are connected to the sewage drain outlet 21 and the clean water drain outlet 21 respectively.

[0098] In detail, since the sewage drainage component 4 may have some lint, dirt, etc. adhered to the sewage drainage outlet 21 and the inner wall of the sewage drainage component 4 after discharging sewage for a long time, if the sewage discharge and clean water discharge use the same drain outlet 21, the clean water may be contaminated.

[0099] The present invention sets a sewage drain outlet 21 and a clean water drain outlet 21 at different positions on the bottom wall of the barrel assembly 2, so as to discharge sewage and clean water separately, thereby avoiding the cross-use of sewage and clean water using the same drain outlet 21 and drain pipe, causing the clean water to be contaminated by dirt, affecting the washing effect and the utilization effect of the clean water.

[0100] In some other embodiments of the present invention, a drain outlet 21 is provided at the bottom of the barrel assembly 2, and the drain outlet 21 is connected to a drain main. A switching unit is provided between the drain main and the sewage drainage assembly 4 and the clean water drainage assembly 3 for selecting one of the drainage assemblies to be connected to the drain main.

[0101] The above solution only provides one drain port 21 at the bottom of the barrel assembly 2, which can improve the sealing performance of the drain port 21 of the barrel assembly 2. By providing a switching unit between the sewage drain assembly 4 and the clean water drain assembly 3 and the drain port 21, the washing water in the barrel assembly 2 can be discharged through the sewage drain assembly 4 or through the clean water drain assembly 3. Preferably, the switching unit is a three-way valve.

[0102] In some embodiments of the present invention, the water purification and drainage assembly 3 includes a drainage valve, a water pipe 31 and a water purification device.

[0103] The drain valve is connected to the drain port 21 of the barrel assembly 2; one end of the water pipe 31 is connected to the drain valve, and the other end is the water outlet; the water purification device is arranged on the pipeline of the water pipe 31 and is arranged below the barrel assembly 2.

[0104] In detail, a water purification device is provided on the water delivery pipe 31 to further purify the washing water with lower turbidity, and the water purification device is provided below the barrel assembly 2 to fully utilize the space below the barrel assembly 2.

[0105] In one embodiment, the water purification device is a physical water purification device, that is, it uses physical methods to achieve the purpose of water purification. For example, the water purification device includes a filter element and other structures, which further filters impurities, or the water purification device includes an ultraviolet lamp, which uses ultraviolet light to disinfect the water.

[0106] The filter element and the ultraviolet lamp can be directly arranged in the water pipe 31 or in a water tank connected to the water pipe 31 .

[0107] In another embodiment, the water purification device is a chemical water purification device, which uses chemical methods to purify water. For example, the water purification device includes a water tank and a flocculant delivery unit, which uses the flocculant to remove impurities from the water. The water tank can have a separate discharge pipe to remove sediment, or it can be connected to a sewage drain pipe through a pipe to discharge sediment. The pipe is equipped with a check valve to prevent water from the sewage drain pipe from flowing back into the water tank and contaminating the water.

[0108] In a further solution, the water purification and drainage component 3 further includes a water pump 312, which is arranged on the pipeline of the water supply pipe 31 and is located downstream of the water purification device in the water flow direction.

[0109] Specifically, by providing a water pump 312, the wash water in the tub assembly 2 can be discharged to the outside of the housing 1 under the action of the water pump 312. The user can use a water tank or other equipment to store this water flow for other uses. In addition, by arranging the water pump 312 downstream of the water purification device in the direction of water flow, the water pump 312 can be kept clean.

[0110] Generally, after the washing process is completed, the water in the barrel assembly 2 is drained through the drainage assembly, and then the dehydration sequence is started to remove the water attached to the clothes, and then the rinsing process is started.

[0111] The rinsing process is usually repeated multiple times. Therefore, after the last or last two rinses, the turbidity of the washing water in the tub assembly 2 is already very low. If this water is directly discharged into the sewer, it will cause a huge waste of water resources. Therefore, it is possible to consider using this water, for example, to wash items, kitchen utensils, furniture, water flowers, wash cars, etc.

[0112] However, if the location where the water is recycled is far away from the washing machine, the process of utilizing this water becomes inconvenient.

[0113] Based on this, Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, the water purification and drainage assembly 3 provided by the present invention also includes a tensioning mechanism 32 and a self-locking device 33. One end of the tensioning mechanism 32 is configured as a fixed end, and the other end is connected to the water pipe 31, which is used to provide a restoring force to the water pipe 31 when adjusting the distance between the water outlet and the water inlet. The self-locking device 33 is connected to the water pipe 31 and is used to lock or release the water pipe 31.

[0114] The water pipe 31 is relatively long, and the tensioning mechanism 32 and the self-locking device 33 cooperate to adjust the distance between the water outlet and the water inlet of the water pipe 31. When the water pipe 31 is not in use, the water pipe 31 can be retracted, and when it is in use, the water pipe 31 can be pulled out.

[0115] In detail, when the user wants to use the water pipe 31, the self-locking device 33 releases the water pipe 31, and the user then pulls the water outlet end of the water pipe 31 to a position away from the water inlet end. At the same time, the water pipe 31 applies force to the tensioning mechanism 32, so that the tensioning mechanism 32 has a restoring force. When the user pulls the water pipe 31 to an appropriate length, the self-locking device 33 locks the water pipe 31.

[0116] When the user has finished using the water pipe 31, the self-locking device 33 releases the water pipe 31. At this time, the water outlet end of the water pipe 31 quickly returns to a position matching the fixed end position of the tensioning mechanism 32 under the action of the restoring force of the tensioning mechanism 32, and then the self-locking device 33 locks the water pipe 31 to limit the position.

[0117] In a preferred solution, a spray head 311 may be further provided at the water outlet of the water pipe 31 so that the water outlet of the water pipe 31 is in a spraying state, thereby improving the cleaning effect on the articles.

[0118] Alternatively, a pressure increasing device may be provided at the outlet of the water pipe 31 to increase the water pressure at the outlet, making it easier for users to use the washing water from the washing machine to wash their car.

[0119] Alternatively, the outlet end of the water pipe 31 may be provided with an adapter for connecting to other water pipes to further expand the scope of use.

[0120] The self-locking device 33 of the present invention includes a clamping portion and a torsion spring.

[0121] After being installed on the washing machine, the clamping portion is configured to maintain a fixed position relative to the fixed end of the tensioning mechanism 32. The clamping portion has a hollow passage through which the water pipe 31 is inserted. The torsion spring includes a first torsion arm 333 and a second torsion arm 334. One end of each of the first torsion arm 333 and the second torsion arm 334 is pivotally connected to the clamping portion, while the other end abuts against two sides of the outer wall of the clamping portion.

[0122] When the size of the hollow channel along the radial direction of the water pipe 31 increases, the first torsion arm 333 and the second torsion arm 334 have a torsional force that causes the clamping portion to tend to lock the water pipe 31 .

[0123] Detailed, such as Figures 6 to 11 As shown, the clamping portion provides a support for the torsion spring to clamp the water pipe 31. The water pipe 31 is inserted into the hollow channel of the clamping portion, while the torsion spring is sleeved on the outside of the clamping portion. The first torsion arm 333 and the second torsion arm 334 apply force to the clamping portion, thereby clamping and locking the water pipe 31.

[0124] When the water pipe 31 needs to be released, external force can be used to overcome the torsional force of the torsion spring, so that the clamping portion cancels the clamping of the water pipe 31 , allowing the tensioning mechanism 32 to pull the water pipe 31 .

[0125] The above solution can realize the locking and releasing of the water pipe 31 , and is convenient for controlling the distance between the water outlet and the water inlet of the water pipe 31 .

[0126] In a further solution, the clamping portion includes a fixed clamping portion 331 and a movable clamping portion 332 .

[0127] The fixed clamping portion 331 is configured to be fixedly connected to the washing machine; the movable clamping portion 332 is pivotally connected to the fixed clamping portion 331 via the pivot axis of the torsion spring, and is surrounded by the fixed clamping portion 331 to form the hollow channel.

[0128] In a specific solution, the fixed clamping portion 331 includes a fixed frame 3311 and a first arc-shaped wall 3312 , and the movable clamping portion 332 includes a movable frame 3321 and a second arc-shaped wall 3322 .

[0129] The fixing frame 3311 is a frame-shaped structure configured to be fixedly connected to the washing machine. The first curved wall 3312 is connected to the fixing frame 3311 and extends along the axial direction of the fixing frame 3311. The outer side of the first curved wall 3312 is provided with a slot 3316, and the first torsion arm 333 is limitedly engaged in the slot 3316.

[0130] The movable frame 3321 is a frame-shaped structure and is inserted into the fixed frame 3311. The second curved wall 3322 is connected to the movable frame 3321 and extends along the axial direction of the movable frame 3321. The second curved wall 3322 is pivotally connected to the first curved wall 3312 via the pivot axis of the torsion spring, and the second torsion arm 334 abuts against the outer side of the second curved wall 3322.

[0131] Specifically, fixed frame 3311 has an inner frame and an outer frame. The shape of fixed frame 3311 can be set according to actual needs. In the present invention, fixed frame 3311 is described as a rectangular frame. Movable frame 3321 also has an inner frame and an outer frame. The shape of movable frame 3321 can also be set according to actual needs. In the present invention, movable frame 3321 is described as an elliptical frame.

[0132] When assembling the fixed clamping portion 331 and the movable clamping portion 332, the movable frame 3321 is inserted into the inner frame of the fixed frame 3311, so that the second curved wall 3322 and the second curved wall 3322 are pivotally connected via the pivot axis of the torsion spring, thereby enclosing a space for the water pipe 31 to pass through. At this point, the inner frame of the movable frame 3321 and the space enclosed by the first curved wall 3312 and the second curved wall 3322 together form a hollow passage for the water pipe 31 to pass through.

[0133] The size of the inner frame of the fixed frame 3311 determines the range of increase in the size of the hollow channel along the radial direction of the water pipe 31 , that is, the inner frame of the fixed frame 3311 serves to limit the movable frame 3321 .

[0134] Further, such as Figure 7 and Figure 8 As shown, the end of the first arcuate wall 3312 and the end of the second arcuate wall 3322 have an interference area in the circumferential direction, and the ends of the first arcuate wall 3312 and the second arcuate wall 3322 are both provided with mounting holes, and the core shaft of the torsion spring is passed through the mounting hole. The first torsion arm 333 and the second torsion arm 334 of the torsion spring are respectively abutted against the outer wall of the first arcuate wall 3312 and the outer wall of the second arcuate wall 3322, so as to make the fixed clamping part 331 and the movable clamping part 332 engage, and make the movable clamping part 332 rotatable relative to the fixed clamping part 331.

[0135] The first torsion arm 333 is captively connected to the outer slot 3316 of the first curved wall 3312. Under the action of an external force, the movable clamping portion 332 rotates about the core axis relative to the fixed clamping portion 331, causing the second torsion arm 334 to generate a torque or rotational force tending to pull the fixed clamping portion 331 back to its initial position. At this point, the second curved wall 3322 is positioned away from the first curved wall 3312, and the hollow passage is larger than the water pipe 31, releasing the water pipe 31. When the external force is removed, the second curved wall 3322, under the action of the torque or rotational force of the torsion spring, is pulled back to a position closer to the first curved wall 3312, where the hollow passage is smaller than the water pipe 31. The movable clamping portion 332 and the fixed clamping portion 331 jointly clamp the water pipe 31, locking it.

[0136] The above solution has a simple structure and is easy for users to operate. It should be noted that the size of the inner frame of the movable frame 3321 should have a design margin.

[0137] In a preferred embodiment, a first reinforcing plate 3315 is provided on the outer wall of the first arc-shaped wall 3312 , and the locking groove 3316 is provided on the first reinforcing plate 3315 to prevent the first torsion arm 333 from slipping off the outer wall of the first arc-shaped wall 3312 .

[0138] In a further solution, the inner side of the first curved wall 3312 is circumferentially provided with ribs 3318 that match the curvature of the outer wall of the water pipe 31; the inner side of the second curved wall 3322 and / or the movable frame 3321 is circumferentially provided with a plurality of protruding teeth 3323, and the ends of the plurality of protruding teeth 3323 match the curvature of the outer wall of the water pipe 31; the ribs 3318 and the plurality of protruding teeth 3323 jointly clamp the water pipe 31.

[0139] In detail, the extension direction of the rib 3318 is circumferential, and the curvature of the rib 3318 should match the circumferential curvature of the water pipe 31, which is conducive to the rib 3318 clamping the water pipe 31.

[0140] Furthermore, a plurality of protruding teeth 3323 are arranged in a surrounding pattern on the inner side of the second curved wall 3322 and / or the movable frame 3321. Specifically, the protruding teeth 3323 are beveled. When the movable clamping portion 332 is pulled back by the second torsion arm 334 of the torsion spring, the protruding teeth 3323 grip the water pipe 31 like a hand, and simultaneously cooperate with the ribs 3318 provided on the first curved wall 3312 to clamp and lock the water pipe 31.

[0141] The protruding teeth 3323 can be arranged into a structure of two rows, one above the other, according to actual conditions.

[0142] In further solutions, such as Figure 9 As shown, the self-locking device 33 also includes a top opening portion 336, one end of which is connected to the movable clamping portion 332, and the other end is configured as an operating end, which is used to push the movable clamping portion 332 away from the fixed clamping portion 331 so that the size of the hollow channel along the radial direction of the water pipe 31 increases and then releases the water pipe 31.

[0143] The provision of the push-open portion 336 facilitates the user to apply a force to the movable clamping portion 332 .

[0144] In a preferred solution, the opening portion 336 includes a top column 3361 and an elastic member, and the elastic member is preferably a spring 3362 .

[0145] The top post 3361 is circumferentially provided with an annular limiting rib 3363. One end of the top post 3361 abuts the movable clamping portion 332, and the other end is the user's operating end. One end of the spring 3362 is fixedly connected to the movable clamping portion 332, and the other end is sleeved on the top post 3361 and abuts the limiting rib 3363.

[0146] When the user pushes the top column 3361 to move the movable clamping part 332 away from the fixed clamping part 331, the spring 3362 is compressed. When the user's force is withdrawn, the movable clamping part 332 moves toward the fixed clamping part 331 under the action of the torsion spring. At the same time, the elastic force of the spring 3362 restores the operating end of the top column 3361 to its original position.

[0147] It should be noted that the original positions of the above components are the positions of the components when the movable clamping portion 332 and the fixed clamping portion 331 lock the water pipe 31.

[0148] The restoring force generated by the spring 3362 is smaller than the torsional force generated by the torsion spring.

[0149] In a further embodiment, a hollow tube 3317 is provided on the frame of the fixed frame 3311 on the side facing the first curved wall 3312. A protruding ring 3324, with an opening facing the hollow tube 3317, is provided on the outer wall of the movable frame 3321 on the side facing the fixed frame 3311. One end of the top post 3361 extends into the protruding ring 3324 and abuts the outer wall of the movable frame 3321, while the other end extends through the hollow tube 3317. One end of the elastic member is sleeved outside the protruding ring 3324 and abuts the outer wall of the movable frame 3321.

[0150] In the above solution, the provision of the hollow tube 3317 and the convex ring 3324 can better fix the convex column and the spring 3362, and the structure is novel, the design is ingenious, and the structure is reasonable.

[0151] To further enhance the compactness of the self-locking device 33, an extension wall 3313 extends downward from one side edge of the inner frame of the fixed frame 3311. A hollow tube 3317 extends outward from the extension wall 3313. A through hole is provided in the extension wall 3313, communicating with the hollow tube 3317. A connecting wall 3314 extends inward from the end of the extension wall 3313, extending inward along the extension direction of the fixed frame 3311. The end of the connecting wall 3314 connects to the first curved wall 3312, and the bottom surface of the connecting wall 3314 is connected to a first reinforcing plate 3315. The first reinforcing plate 3315 is arranged at an angle, with the end near the connecting wall 3314 being wider and the end near the end of the first curved wall 3312 being narrower.

[0152] Preferably, the components of the fixed clamping portion 331 are designed to be integrally formed.

[0153] In a further solution, an avoidance groove 3325 is provided on the outer wall of the movable frame 3321 on the other side opposite to the convex ring 3324, which is used to avoid the side of the fixed frame 3311 opposite to the hollow tube 3317 when the size of the hollow channel increases along the radial direction of the water pipe 31.

[0154] Specifically, the avoidance groove 3325 may penetrate the frame body of the movable frame 3321 , or may be a groove structure formed by the frame body of the movable frame 3321 being recessed inward.

[0155] The above solution can reduce the overall size of the self-locking device 33, thereby avoiding the self-locking device 33 from occupying a large space after being installed on the washing machine.

[0156] In some embodiments of the present invention, Figure 6 As shown, both ends of the pivot axis of the torsion spring are connected to second reinforcing plates 335 , and the second reinforcing plates 335 are arranged outside the second arc-shaped wall 3322 .

[0157] In the above solution, on the one hand, the second reinforcing plate 335 is connected to both ends of the pivot shaft of the torsion spring to prevent the torsion spring from falling off the pivot shaft. On the other hand, the second reinforcing plate 335 is arranged around the outside of the second arc-shaped wall 3322 to protect the second arc-shaped wall 3322.

[0158] In some embodiments of the present invention, Figure 5 As shown, the tensioning mechanism 32 includes a movable pulley 321 and an elastic member.

[0159] The water pipe 31 is wound around the movable pulley 321 ; one end of the elastic member is configured as a fixed end, and the other end is connected to the movable pulley 321 .

[0160] In detail, the fixed end of the elastic member can be fixed at the lower position of the washing machine housing 1 , and the other end of the elastic member is a movable end connected to the movable pulley 321 .

[0161] The water pipe 31 is wound around the movable pulley 321. When the user pulls the water outlet end of the water pipe 31 from the upper position of the washing machine body 1 to a position away from the water inlet end, the movable pulley 321 is driven upward by the water pipe 31, thereby driving the movable end of the elastic member to move upward. The elastic member is randomly pulled up and lengthened, so that it has its own restoring force.

[0162] The movable pulley 321 is a self-rotating structure, and the rotating shaft of the movable pulley 321 can also be connected to the base 326. The movable end of the elastic member is fixedly connected to the base 326. The water pipe 31 is arranged in the space between the base 326 and the movable pulley 321 to prevent the water pipe 31 from falling out, thereby limiting the water pipe 31.

[0163] The fixed end of the elastic member may also be connected to a fixing post 324, and the fixing post 324 is used to fix the elastic member to the washing machine housing 1. The elastic member is preferably a tension spring 322.

[0164] In the above scheme, a movable pulley 321 is used as a transition structure between the elastic member and the water pipe 31. The self-rotating characteristic of the movable pulley 321 allows the user to easily pull the water outlet end of the water pipe 31 to a position away from the water inlet end. Moreover, the characteristic of the elastic member that can generate restoring force during the stretching process can realize the automatic pulling back of the water pipe 31.

[0165] It should be noted that, according to the principles of mechanics, the tension of the tension spring 322 should be smaller than the friction force of the torsion spring acting on the outer wall of the water pipe 31 so that the water pipe 31 will not be pulled back by the tension spring 322 after the self-locking device 33 locks the water pipe 31.

[0166] In a further embodiment, the tensioning mechanism 32 further includes a fixed pulley 323 , the elastic member is wound around the fixed pulley 323 , and the fixed pulley 323 is configured to have a relatively fixed positional relationship with a fixed end of the elastic member.

[0167] In detail, the fixed pulley 323 can also be set on the washing machine body 1, and the elastic member is wound around the fixed pulley 323. The position of the fixed pulley 323 itself will not change with the stretching of the elastic member. The fixed pulley 323 is also a rotatable structure. The fixed pulley 323 can change the stretching direction of the elastic member when it is stretched by the water pipe 31.

[0168] Specifically, the fixed pulley 323 can be arranged in the same horizontal direction as the fixed end of the elastic member, or can be arranged at an angle with the fixed end of the elastic member in the horizontal direction. The relative position of the fixed pulley 323 and the elastic member determines the length and elastic force of the elastic member.

[0169] Preferably, the relative positional relationship between the fixed pulley 323 and the elastic member enables the stretching direction of the elastic member to change within a range of 10° to 90°.

[0170] In the above solution, the fixed pulley 323 is added to change the stretching direction of the elastic member, making it easier to arrange an elastic member with a longer length and greater elasticity in a limited space.

[0171] The number of the combination of the fixed pulley 323 and the movable pulley 321 can be appropriately increased according to actual conditions.

[0172] In a further solution, guardrails 325 are connected to both ends of the rotating shaft of the fixed pulley 323, and the elastic member is located in the space enclosed by the fixed pulley 323 and the guardrails 325 to prevent the elastic member from separating from the movable pulley 321, thereby playing the role of a limiting elastic member.

[0173] The following describes the structure and usage of the drainage assembly after it is installed on a washing machine.

[0174] The drain port 21 of the barrel assembly 2 is generally located at the bottom, and the water inlet end of the water pipe 31 is connected to the drain port 21. The bottom of the housing 1 is provided with a through hole, and the water outlet end passes through the through hole and is disposed outside the housing 1. The portion of the water pipe 31 near the water inlet end is fixedly connected to the outer wall of the housing 1, and the tensioning mechanism 32 and the self-locking device 33 are respectively connected to the outer wall of the housing 1.

[0175] Detailed, such as Figure 12 As shown, a plurality of fixing clips 13 are provided on the outer wall of the box body 1 from bottom to top, for fixing the portion of the water pipe 31 close to the water inlet end, that is, the upstream portion of the water pipe 31 in the water flow direction.

[0176] The fixed end of the tensioning mechanism 32 is fixedly connected to the housing 1, and the other end of the tensioning mechanism 32 is connected to the remaining pipe of the water pipe 31. The self-locking device 33 is fixedly connected to the outer wall of the housing 1 and is used to lock the water pipe 31 when the water outlet end is pulled to the appropriate position, or to release the water pipe 31 so that the tensioning mechanism 32 can pull the water pipe 31 to its original position.

[0177] In a more preferred solution, the fixed end of the tensioning mechanism 32 is fixedly connected to the lower portion of the outer wall of the box body 1 , and the self-locking device 33 is fixedly connected to the upper portion of the outer wall of the box body 1 .

[0178] The water delivery pipe 31 is a flexible hose.

[0179] Alternatively, a transfer bracket 12 may be provided on the outer wall of the washing machine body 1 , and the water pipe 31 , after being fixed by the fixing clamp 13 provided at the top, passes through the transfer bracket 12 and is connected to the movable end of the tensioning mechanism 32 .

[0180] The function of the adapter bracket 12 is to change the fixed direction of the water pipe 31 to prevent the water pipe 31 from bending and affecting the water output.

[0181] In addition, in order to enhance the appearance of the washing machine, a cover plate 11 can be provided on the side wall of the washing machine to cover the water pipe 31, the tensioning mechanism 32 and the self-locking device 33. Figure 13 shown.

[0182] The above description is merely a preferred embodiment of the present invention and does not constitute any form of limitation to the present invention. Although the present invention has been disclosed as above in terms of a preferred embodiment, it is not intended to limit the present invention. Any technician familiar with this patent can make slight changes or modifications to equivalent embodiments using the above technical content without departing from the scope of the technical solution of the present invention. However, any simple modifications, equivalent changes, and modifications made to the above embodiments based on the technical essence of the present invention without departing from the content of the technical solution of the present invention are still within the scope of the solution of the present invention.

Claims

1. A method for controlling a washing machine, characterized in that: The washing machine includes a tub assembly, the tub assembly being connected to a sewage drainage assembly and a clean water drainage assembly; The control method includes the following steps: Before the rinsing process begins, it is determined whether the water purification and drainage component has received an instruction to collect washing water. If so, the drainage is suspended at the end of the rinsing process and a timer is started and a reminder command is issued; If the instruction to collect washing water is received within the set time, the clean water drainage component is controlled to drain water; if the instruction to collect washing water is not received within the set time, the sewage drainage component is controlled to drain water after the set time; If a drainage instruction is received within the set time, the sewage drainage component is immediately started to drain water; The washing machine includes a control panel, on which a water retention function key, a drainage key, and a water retention key are provided; The instruction to collect wash water is received before the rinsing process begins, including: The instruction to collect washing water is received when the time for the water retaining function key and the water retaining key to be pressed simultaneously exceeds a set threshold; Receive instructions to collect wash water within a set time, including: Receiving that the water retention key is pressed for a time period exceeding a set threshold value is a receipt of an instruction to collect wash water; Receive a drainage instruction within the set time, including: The drainage instruction is received when the time for which the water retention function key and the drainage key are pressed simultaneously exceeds a set threshold.

2. A method for controlling a washing machine according to claim 1, characterized in that: After receiving the instruction to collect washing water, the control unit of the washing machine memorizes the instruction and receives the instruction by default before the next washing program.

3. A method for controlling a washing machine according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: If a drainage instruction is received during the drainage process of the clean water drainage component, the sewage drainage component is controlled to start, and the clean water drainage component is controlled to close.

4. A washing machine, characterized in that: Used to execute the control method according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

5. The washing machine according to claim 4, characterized in that A sewage drain outlet and a clean water drain outlet are provided at the bottom of the barrel assembly, and the sewage drain assembly and the clean water drain assembly are communicated with the sewage drain outlet and the clean water drain outlet respectively.

6. The washing machine according to claim 5, characterized in that A drain port is provided at the bottom of the barrel assembly, and the drain port is connected to a drain main, and the drain main is selectively connected to the sewage drainage assembly and the clean water drainage assembly through a switching unit.

7. The washing machine according to any one of claims 4 to 6, characterized in that: The water purification and drainage assembly comprises: a drain valve, connected to the drain port of the barrel assembly; A water pipe, one end of which is connected to the drain valve and the other end of which is a water outlet; The water purification device is arranged on the pipeline of the water delivery pipe and below the barrel assembly.

8. The washing machine according to claim 7, characterized in that The clean water drainage assembly also includes: The water pump is arranged on the pipeline of the water delivery pipe and is located downstream of the water purification device in the water flow direction.

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