Foam local cleaning device and washing machine

Abstract

The application discloses a foam local cleaning device and a washing machine. The foam local cleaning device comprises a shell with a containing cavity; a foam cleaning assembly having a storage position and a cleaning position relative to the shell, when the foam cleaning assembly is in the storage position, the foam cleaning assembly is stored in the containing cavity of the shell, and when the foam cleaning assembly is in the cleaning position, the foam cleaning assembly is located outside the containing cavity of the shell; and a moving assembly connected with the shell and the foam cleaning assembly, used for moving the foam cleaning assembly between the storage position and the cleaning position. After the use of the foam local cleaning device is finished, the foam cleaning assembly is switched between the outside of the shell and the inside of the shell through the moving assembly, so that the foam cleaning assembly does not occupy a large space.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present application belongs to the technical field of clothes processing, and particularly relates to a foam partial cleaning device and a washing machine. BACKGROUND

[0002] A washing machine is a machine for cleaning laundry by mechanical force generated by electricity. For shirts and other similar clothes, the collar and the cuff are generally more soiled than other positions. However, the washing effect of the existing washing machine on the local positions such as the collar and the cuff is poor during the washing process.

[0003] In the prior art, an ultrasonic washing device is often additionally arranged on the washing machine to achieve the purpose.

[0004] For example, a washing machine with a local ultrasonic washing device is disclosed in Chinese Patent No. CN200520069251.1, which comprises a washing machine body and an ultrasonic washing device. The ultrasonic washing device comprises an ultrasonic generator, a transducer, a device box, and a transducer base. The ultrasonic generator is installed in a computer board and connected with the transducer. The transducer is installed on the base in the device box and pressed by a cover plate. The ultrasonic washing device is fixed by a positioning support and installed at the rear of the washing machine workbench through the positioning support.

[0005] Chinese Patent No. CN2017101131757 discloses a clothes local cleaning structure and a washing machine. The clothes local cleaning structure is detachably arranged on a washing machine disc seat and connected with a washing machine water inlet and a detergent box. The clothes local cleaning structure comprises a pressing plate and a supporting plate. The pressing plate comprises an ultrasonic transducer, and the supporting plate comprises a water inlet cavity. The shape of the pressing plate is matched with the supporting plate. After being pressed towards the supporting plate, the pressing plate and the supporting plate form a gap for clamping a local position of clothes to be washed and cleaning the local position of the clothes to be washed by ultrasonic waves.

[0006] The above scheme solves the problem that the washing machine cannot clean the local positions with high soiling degree to a certain extent. However, the additional arrangement of the ultrasonic washing device on the washing machine undoubtedly increases the cost of the washing machine and reduces the market competitiveness of the washing machine.

[0007] Therefore, the present application is proposed. SUMMARY

[0008] The present application aims to overcome the shortcomings of the prior art and provide a foam partial cleaning device which can be switched between a cleaning position and a storage position and reduce the occupied space.

[0009] Another object of the present application is to provide a washing machine comprising the above foam partial cleaning device, which can reduce the cost and improve the market competitiveness of the washing machine.

[0010] To solve the above technical problems, the basic idea of the technical solution of the present application is:

[0011] A foam local cleaning device, comprising:

[0012] A housing having a receiving cavity;

[0013] A foam cleaning assembly having a receiving position and a cleaning position relative to the housing, in the receiving position, the foam cleaning assembly is received in the receiving cavity of the housing, in the cleaning position, the foam cleaning assembly is located outside the receiving cavity of the housing;

[0014] A moving assembly connected with the housing and the foam cleaning assembly, for moving the foam cleaning assembly between the receiving position and the cleaning position.

[0015] Further, the moving assembly comprises a linkage assembly;

[0016] The linkage assembly comprises:

[0017] A linkage portion capable of rotating around a rotation center;

[0018] A first slider and a second slider respectively arranged at two ends of the linkage portion and sliding relative to the housing;

[0019] The second slider is further connected with a handle portion, the handle portion is connected with the foam cleaning assembly, and when the handle portion is pushed and pulled to switch the foam cleaning assembly between the receiving position and the cleaning position, the second slider slides relative to the housing and drives the first slider to slide relative to the housing through the linkage portion;

[0020] Alternatively, the linkage assembly further comprises:

[0021] A driving unit connected with the rotation center of the linkage portion;

[0022] The driving unit drives the linkage portion to rotate around the rotation center, so that the first slider and the second slider slide on the housing, and the foam cleaning assembly is switched between the receiving position and the cleaning position.

[0023] Further, the handle portion comprises:

[0024] A base having opposite first and second ends, the first end of the base is connected with the second slider, the second end of the base is configured as an operating end, the base is arranged below the foam cleaning assembly, and a hollow portion is arranged corresponding to a part of the foam cleaning assembly to allow water flow of the foam cleaning assembly to flow through;

[0025] a connecting wall having opposite first and second ends, the first end of the connecting wall being connected with the foam cleaning assembly, and the second end of the connecting wall being connected with the first end of the base.

[0026] Further, the foam cleaning assembly comprises:

[0027] a water outlet unit for providing cleaning water when local cleaning is performed;

[0028] a first sensing unit for sensing the clothes and triggering the water outlet unit to provide cleaning water;

[0029] a foam generating unit for providing foam detergent when local cleaning is performed;

[0030] a second sensing unit for sensing the clothes and triggering the foam generating unit to generate foam detergent.

[0031] Further, the foam generating unit and the second sensing unit are arranged in a housing, the outlet of the foam generating unit and the sensing end of the second sensing unit are arranged on a bottom wall of the housing, and the outlet of the foam generating unit is located away from the sensing end of the second sensing unit.

[0032] Further, the water outlet unit and the first sensing unit are integrally arranged, and are arranged below the housing and avoid the outlet of the foam generating unit and the sensing end of the second sensing unit.

[0033] Further, the housing is provided with a first sliding groove and a second sliding groove;

[0034] The first sliding block and the second sliding block are respectively arranged in the first sliding groove and the second sliding groove and slide in the first sliding groove and the second sliding groove.

[0035] Further, the connecting rod part comprises a first connecting rod and a second connecting rod;

[0036] One end of the first connecting rod is connected with the first sliding block, the other end is slidingly connected with the second connecting rod, and the other end of the second connecting rod is connected with the second sliding block;

[0037] The second connecting rod is connected with a rotating shaft and can rotate around the rotating shaft;

[0038] When the second sliding block slides in the second sliding groove to drive the second connecting rod to rotate around the rotating shaft, the first connecting rod can slide relative to the second connecting rod along the length direction of the second connecting rod, and the first sliding block slides in the first sliding groove.

[0039] Furthermore, the second link is provided with a link groove, and the first link slides in the link groove so that the first link slides relative to the second link along the length direction of the second link.

[0040] A washing machine includes a foam spot cleaning device as described above.

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

[0042] 1. This invention provides a foam local cleaning device, in which the detergent directly foams, making it less likely to fall off the clothes, eliminating the need for the process of rubbing and foaming with water, and making full use of the effective ingredients in the foam, greatly improving the cleaning, sterilization and moisturizing effects.

[0043] 2. In using the above-mentioned foam spot cleaning device, the present invention moves the foam cleaning component from the inside to the outside of the outer shell via a moving component. This facilitates spot washing or pre-application of detergent. The detergent foams directly, preventing it from falling off clothing and eliminating the need for wetting and rubbing to create foam. This allows for full utilization of the effective ingredients in the foam, greatly improving the cleaning, sterilization, and moisturizing effects. After use, the foam cleaning component is moved from the outside to the inside of the outer shell via the moving component, preventing the foam cleaning component from occupying a large space.

[0044] 3. This invention solves the technical problem of continuous water output from the water outlet component using existing control logic when the foam local cleaning device is in storage position due to its compact structure, thereby minimizing the space occupied by the foam local cleaning device in the washing machine.

[0045] The specific embodiments of the present invention will now be described in further detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Attached Figure Description

[0046] The accompanying drawings, as part of this invention, are used to provide a further understanding of the invention. The illustrative embodiments and descriptions of the invention are used to explain the invention, but do not constitute an undue limitation of the invention. Obviously, the drawings described below are merely some embodiments, and those skilled in the art can obtain other drawings based on these drawings without creative effort. In the drawings:

[0047] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the foam local cleaning device located at the cleaning position in one embodiment of the present invention;

[0048] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 A diagram showing the medium-foam spot cleaning device switched to its storage position;

[0049] Figure 3 yesFigure 1 and Figure 2 Schematic diagram of the structure of the medium-foam local cleaning device;

[0050] Figure 4 yes Figure 3 Enlarged view of section A in the image;

[0051] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the foam generation unit;

[0052] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the foam local cleaning device located at the cleaning position in another embodiment of the present invention;

[0053] Figure 7 yes Figure 6 A schematic diagram showing the location of the medium-foam spot cleaning device in its storage position;

[0054] Figure 8 yes Figure 7 A magnified view of section B;

[0055] Figure 9 This is a schematic flowchart of the control method for the foam local cleaning device of the present invention;

[0056] Figure 10 Another schematic diagram of the control method of the foam local cleaning device of the present invention.

[0057] In the diagram: 1. Outer shell; 11. First slide groove; 12. Second slide groove; 13. Door body; 2. Foam cleaning assembly; 21. Water outlet unit; 22. First sensing unit; 23. Foam generating unit; 231. Liquid outlet; 232. Liquid inlet; 233. Air inlet; 24. Second sensing unit; 25. Outer shell; 3. Linkage assembly; 31. Linkage part; 311. First link; 312. Second link; 313. Rotating shaft; 32. First slider; 33. Second slider; 4. Handle part; 41. Base; 42. Hollowed-out part; 43. Connecting wall; 5. Tray base; 51. Clothing loading port.

[0058] It should be noted that these accompanying drawings and textual descriptions are not intended to limit the scope of the invention in any way, but rather to illustrate the concept of the invention to those skilled in the art by referring to specific embodiments. Detailed Implementation

[0059] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of the embodiments of the present invention clearer, the technical solutions in the embodiments will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. The following embodiments are used to illustrate the present invention, but are not intended to limit the scope of the present invention.

[0060] In the description of this invention, it should be noted that the terms "upper", "lower", "front", "rear", "left", "right", "vertical", "inner", "outer", etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They are only for the convenience of describing this invention and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limiting this invention.

[0061] In the description of this invention, it should be noted that, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," and "linking" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this invention based on the specific circumstances.

[0062] like Figures 1 to 8 As shown, the present invention provides a foam local cleaning device and a washing machine.

[0063] Specifically, in some embodiments of the present invention, the foam local cleaning device includes a housing 1 having a receiving cavity, a foam cleaning component 2, and a moving component.

[0064] The foam cleaning component 2 has a storage position and a cleaning position relative to the outer shell 1. In the storage position, the foam cleaning component 2 is stored within the receiving cavity of the outer shell 1. In the cleaning position, the foam cleaning component 2 is located outside the receiving cavity of the outer shell 1. Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown.

[0065] The movable component is connected to the housing 1 and the foam cleaning component 2, and is used to move the foam cleaning component 2 between the storage position and the cleaning position.

[0066] In detail, when using the above-mentioned foam spot cleaning device, the foam cleaning component 2 is moved from the inside of the outer shell 1 to the outside of the outer shell 1 by the moving component, which is convenient for spot washing or pre-application of detergent. The detergent foams directly and is not easy to fall off the clothes, eliminating the need for the process of rubbing and foaming with water. This allows the effective ingredients in the foam to be fully utilized, greatly improving the cleaning, sterilization and moisturizing effects.

[0067] After use, the foam cleaning component 2 is moved from the outside of the housing 1 to the inside of the housing 1 by moving the component to avoid the foam cleaning component 2 occupying too much space.

[0068] The moving components include push-spring structures, flipping structures, pull-out structures, pull-motor driven structures, and sliding rod structures, but the moving components are not limited to the above structures. Any structure that can move the foam cleaning component 2 between the storage position and the cleaning position is within the protection scope of this application.

[0069] In a further embodiment, the moving component includes a linkage assembly 3, which includes a linkage portion 31, a first slider 32, and a second slider 33.

[0070] The connecting rod 31 is rotatable about a rotation center; the first slider 32 and the second slider 33 are respectively disposed at both ends of the connecting rod 31 and slide relative to the outer shell 1.

[0071] The second slider 33 is also connected to a handle 4, which is connected to the foam cleaning assembly 2. When the handle 4 is pushed or pulled to move the foam cleaning assembly 2 between the storage position and the cleaning position, the second slider 33 slides relative to the outer shell 1 and drives the first slider 32 to slide relative to the outer shell 1 through the connecting rod 31.

[0072] In detail, the outer shell 1 is provided with a rotation center, and the connecting rod 31 moves around the rotation center in a pendulum-like motion. Under the action of the connecting rod 31, the motion trajectories of the first slider 32 and the second slider 33 are parallel. In one embodiment, the motion trajectory of the first slider 32 and the second slider 33 is a straight line motion. In practical applications, the motion trajectory of the first slider 32 and the second slider 33 can be set to an arc shape or the like as needed.

[0073] When using the aforementioned foam local cleaning device, the user pulls the handle 4 to move the foam cleaning component 2 from the inside of the housing 1 to the outside, simultaneously causing the second slider 33 connected to the handle 4 to slide on the housing 1 in a first direction. At this time, the second slider 33 causes the connecting rod 31 to rotate around the rotation center and causes the first slider 32 to slide on the housing 1 in a second direction, the first direction being opposite to the second direction.

[0074] After use, the user pushes the handle 4 to move the foam cleaning component 2 from the outside to the inside of the housing 1, while simultaneously causing the second slider 33 connected to the handle 4 to slide on the housing 1 in a second direction. At this time, the second slider 33 causes the connecting rod 31 to rotate around the rotation center and causes the first slider 32 to slide on the housing 1 in a first direction.

[0075] The first direction can be the direction closer to the user, and the second direction can be the direction farther away from the user.

[0076] In the alternative method, the foam cleaning component 2 can be automatically switched between the storage position and the cleaning position without the need for manual operation by the user, thus simplifying the user's operation.

[0077] In detail, the linkage assembly 3 further includes a drive unit, which is connected to the rotation center of the linkage portion 31; the drive unit drives the linkage portion 31 to rotate around the rotation center, causing the first slider 32 and the second slider 33 to slide on the outer casing 1, thereby switching the foam cleaning assembly 2 between the storage position and the cleaning position.

[0078] In a further embodiment, the outer casing 1 is provided with a limiting part to restrict the sliding distance of the first slider 32 and the second slider 33, thereby enabling the foam cleaning assembly 2 to be pulled out or pushed in an appropriate distance.

[0079] In a further embodiment, the handle portion 4 includes a base 41 and a connecting wall 43.

[0080] The base 41 has a first end and a second end. The first end of the base 41 is connected to the second slider 33, and the second end of the base 41 is configured as an operating end, i.e., the end closer to the user. The base 41 is disposed below the foam cleaning assembly 2, and a perforated portion 42 is provided corresponding to the part of the foam cleaning assembly 2 to allow water from the foam cleaning assembly 2 to flow through.

[0081] The connecting wall 43 also has a first end and a second end, the first end of the connecting wall 43 is connected to the foam cleaning assembly 2, and the second end of the connecting wall 43 is connected to the first end of the base 41.

[0082] In the above solution, the user can move the foam cleaning component 2 between the storage position and the cleaning position by pushing and pulling the base 41, thereby improving the stability during operation.

[0083] In addition, the perforated part 42 on the base 41 allows the water generated by the foam cleaning component 2 to flow away in time, preventing foam from accumulating and adhering to the foam cleaning component 2 and causing blockages and other problems.

[0084] In some embodiments of the present invention, the foam cleaning assembly 2 includes a water outlet unit 21, a first sensing unit 22, a foam generating unit 23, and a second sensing unit 24.

[0085] Specifically, the water outlet unit 21 is used to provide cleaning water during spot cleaning; the first sensing unit 22 is used to trigger the water outlet unit 21 to dispense water when it senses clothing; the foam generating unit 23 is used to provide foam-like detergent during spot cleaning; and the second sensing unit 24 is used to trigger the foam generating unit 23 to generate foam-like detergent when it senses clothing.

[0086] In the above scheme, the foam generating unit 23 and the water dispensing unit 21 that spray detergent and water are controlled by a sensing device to determine whether they are activated. During the local cleaning process, the process of wetting clothes and adding detergent can be carried out alternately to improve the cleaning effect on local areas.

[0087] In a further embodiment, the foam generating unit 23 and the second sensing unit 24 are disposed within a housing 25. The outlet of the foam generating unit 23 and the sensing end of the second sensing unit 24 are disposed on the bottom wall of the housing 25, and the outlet of the foam generating unit 23 is located away from the connecting wall 43 relative to the sensing end of the second sensing unit 24.

[0088] The above solution integrates the foam generating unit 23 and the second sensing unit 24 into the housing 25, with the detergent foam outlet only reserved on the bottom wall of the housing 25, which improves the overall aesthetics of the device and enhances the user experience.

[0089] Furthermore, by positioning the outlet of the foam generating unit 23 at a location far from the connecting wall 43 relative to the sensing end of the second sensing unit 24, it is possible to prevent detergent foam from being generated before the clothes reach the outlet of the foam generating unit 23.

[0090] In a further embodiment, the water outlet unit 21 and the first sensing unit 22 are integrated into one unit and located below the housing 25, avoiding the outlet of the foam generating unit 23 and the sensing end of the second sensing unit 24.

[0091] In the above solution, the water outlet unit 21 and the first sensing unit 22 are integrated into one unit, which can also improve the overall aesthetics of the device and enhance the user experience.

[0092] Furthermore, by arranging the components for discharging water and the components for discharging detergent in an upper and lower configuration, the size of the foam local cleaning device in the width direction can be reduced, which is beneficial for installing the foam local cleaning device on a structure such as the tray base 5 of a washing machine.

[0093] The aforementioned avoidance method could be, for example, setting the size of the water outlet unit 21 and the first sensing unit 22 to be smaller than the size of the foam generating unit 23 and the second sensing unit 24.

[0094] In some embodiments of the present invention, such as Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, the outer casing 1 is provided with a first sliding groove 11 and a second sliding groove 12; the first slider 32 and the second slider 33 are respectively disposed in the first sliding groove 11 and the second sliding groove 12, and slide within the first sliding groove 11 and the second sliding groove 12.

[0095] In detail, the first slide groove 11 and the second slide groove 12 correspond one-to-one with the first slider 32 and the second slider 33. In one embodiment, the movement trajectory of the first slider 32 and the second slider 33 is linear. In practical applications, the movement trajectory of the first slider 32 and the second slider 33 can be set to an arc shape or the like as needed. Under the limiting action of the first slide groove 11 and the second slide groove 12, the first slider 32 and the second slider 33 form their movement trajectory.

[0096] In a further embodiment, the connecting rod portion 31 includes a first connecting rod 311 and a second connecting rod 312.

[0097] One end of the first connecting rod 311 is connected to the first slider 32, and the other end is slidably connected to the second connecting rod 312. The other end of the second connecting rod 312 is connected to the second slider 33.

[0098] The second connecting rod 312 is connected to a rotating shaft 313 and can rotate around the rotating shaft 313; when the second slider 33 slides in the second groove 12 and drives the second connecting rod 312 to rotate around the rotating shaft 313, the first connecting rod 311 can slide relative to the second connecting rod 312 along the length direction of the second connecting rod 312, and drive the first slider 32 to slide in the first groove 11.

[0099] Specifically, the second connecting rod 312 faces the outer casing 1 and has a connecting rod groove along its length. When the first connecting rod 311 rotates, it can slide relative to the second connecting rod 312 within the range of the connecting rod groove along its length. The second connecting rod 312 also has a second opening along its length. The second slider 33 has a second guide post that cooperates with the second opening. When the connecting rod part 31 rotates, the second guide post, under the action of the second opening, drives the second slider 33 to slide along the second slide groove 12. At the same time, the first connecting rod 311 has a first guide post that cooperates with the second opening. Similarly, when the connecting rod part 31 rotates, the first guide post, under the action of the second opening, drives the first slider 32 to slide along the first slide groove 11. The first connecting rod 311 also has a first opening that cooperates with the rotating shaft 313. When the first connecting rod 311 extends or extends along the length of the second connecting rod 312, the first opening of the first connecting rod 311 also plays a guiding role and prevents the first connecting rod 311 from deviating from the connecting rod groove.

[0100] Furthermore, the outer casing 1 is provided with a first limiting part and a second limiting part, and the second slider 33 is provided with a positioning part. The positioning part cooperates with the first limiting part and the second limiting part respectively to realize the rotational movement of the connecting rod part 31 within a certain range.

[0101] Furthermore, one end of the first slider 32 is rotatably engaged with the first connecting rod 311, and the other end is provided with a mounting part. The mounting part is a cylindrical mounting post with a through hole structure. A rotating part is also provided in cooperation with the mounting part. A first baffle is provided on the mounting part, and a second baffle is provided on the rotating part. A torsion spring is provided on the outer side of the mounting part, which cooperates with the first baffle and the second baffle. The outer shell is provided with a guide part. The torsion spring cooperates with the guide part provided on the inner side of the outer shell 1. The torsion spring and the guide part realize the switching between linear motion and rotational motion. The guide part has an arc-shaped guide structure. After the linear motion is converted into rotational motion, the torsion spring provides a restoring force. This configuration allows the rotational motion of the connecting rod 31 to be converted into the linear motion of the first slider 32, and then the linear motion of the first slider 32 to be converted into the rotational motion of the rotating part, providing multiple application scenarios for the foam local cleaning device.

[0102] Furthermore, the outer casing 1 is provided with a door 13 that can open and close the opening of the outer casing 1, and at least in the open state, the door 13 is housed inside the outer casing 1, placing the entire foam local cleaning device in the cleaning position for user operation.

[0103] In detail, the door body 13 is connected to the aforementioned rotating part. When the user pulls the base 41 to make the second slider 33 slide in the second slide groove 12, causing the second connecting rod 312 to rotate around the rotating axis 313, the first connecting rod 311 can slide relative to the second connecting rod 312 along the length direction of the second connecting rod 312, and cause the first slider 32 to slide in the first slide groove 11, and also cause the rotating part to rotate so that the door body 13 changes from a vertical position to a horizontal position and is stored in the outer shell 1.

[0104] In some embodiments of the present invention, the washing machine includes a cabinet, a washing tub is disposed inside the cabinet, and a tray 5 with a clothes inlet 51 is disposed above the cabinet. The aforementioned foam local cleaning device can be disposed on the tray 5. Preferably, the tray 5 itself can serve as the outer shell 1, and the door 13, after closing the opening of the outer shell 1, forms the side wall of the clothes inlet 51.

[0105] In some embodiments of the present invention, the water outlet unit 21, upon receiving a sensor, selectively dispenses hot water, warm water, or water shared by the main water supply line. The detergent may be laundry liquid, disinfectant, fabric softener, bleach, or fragrance, etc.

[0106] In some embodiments of the present invention, an air outlet device is provided around the tray 5 for drying when only local stains are cleaned.

[0107] In some embodiments of the present invention, such as Figure 5 As shown, the foam generating unit 23 includes a liquid outlet 231, a liquid inlet 232, and an air inlet 233.

[0108] In detail, the foam generating unit 23 includes:

[0109] The gas-liquid mixing chamber is connected to the liquid outlet 231;

[0110] A liquid pump, one end of which is connected to the liquid inlet 232, and the other end of which is connected to the gas-liquid mixing chamber;

[0111] A gas pump, one end of which is connected to the air inlet 233, and the other end of which is connected to the gas-liquid mixing chamber;

[0112] A drive mechanism for driving the liquid pump and the gas pump is configured to receive a signal to start / stop the foam generating unit 23.

[0113] In some embodiments of the present invention, the foam cleaning component 2 can switch between the storage position and the cleaning position without the need for a handle 4, such as... Figures 6 to 8 As shown.

[0114] In the specific solution, the foam local cleaning device includes not only the outer shell 1 and the foam cleaning component 2, but also a door 13 for opening and closing the opening of the outer shell 1.

[0115] One end of the moving component is connected to the door 13, and the other end is connected to the foam cleaning component 2.

[0116] like Figure 6 As shown, when the user needs to use the foam cleaning component 2, the door 13 opens the opening of the outer shell 1, and the foam cleaning component 2 is moved from the storage position to the cleaning position by the moving component.

[0117] like Figure 7 As shown, when the user finishes using the foam cleaning component 2, and pushes the foam cleaning component 2 to move it from the cleaning position to the storage position, the door 13 closes the opening of the outer shell 1 through the moving component.

[0118] Specifically, the moving component includes a linkage assembly 3, which includes a linkage portion 31, a first slider 32, and a second slider 33.

[0119] The connecting rod 31 is rotatable around a rotation center; the first slider 32 and the second slider 33 are respectively disposed at both ends of the connecting rod 31 and slide relative to the outer shell 1; the door 13 is connected to the first slider 32 through a rotating part; the foam cleaning assembly 2 is connected to the second slider 33; when the door 13 opens the opening of the outer shell 1, it is stored inside the outer shell 1.

[0120] Furthermore, the first slider 32 is provided with a mounting post having a through hole structure, and a first baffle is provided above the mounting post; the rotating part is inserted into the through hole structure of the mounting post, and a second baffle is provided on the side of the rotating part facing the mounting post; a torsion spring is sleeved on the outside of the mounting post, and the two torsion arms of the torsion spring are respectively limited and cooperated with the first baffle and the second baffle.

[0121] In detail, the outer casing 1 is provided with a first sliding groove 11 and a second sliding groove 12; the first slider 32 and the second slider 33 are respectively disposed in the first sliding groove 11 and the second sliding groove 12, and slide within the first sliding groove 11 and the second sliding groove 12.

[0122] The first slide groove 11 and the second slide groove 12 correspond one-to-one with the first slider 32 and the second slider 33. In one embodiment, the movement trajectory of the first slider 32 and the second slider 33 is linear. In practical applications, the movement trajectory of the first slider 32 and the second slider 33 can be set to an arc shape or the like as needed. Under the limiting action of the first slide groove 11 and the second slide groove 12, the first slider 32 and the second slider 33 form their movement trajectory.

[0123] In a further embodiment, the connecting rod portion 31 includes a first connecting rod 311 and a second connecting rod 312.

[0124] One end of the first connecting rod 311 is connected to the first slider 32, and the other end is slidably connected to the second connecting rod 312. The other end of the second connecting rod 312 is connected to the second slider 33.

[0125] The second connecting rod 312 is connected to a rotating shaft 313 and can rotate around the rotating shaft 313; when the second slider 33 slides in the second groove 12 and drives the second connecting rod 312 to rotate around the rotating shaft 313, the first connecting rod 311 can slide relative to the second connecting rod 312 along the length direction of the second connecting rod 312, and drive the first slider 32 to slide in the first groove 11.

[0126] Specifically, the second connecting rod 312 faces the outer casing 1 and has a connecting rod groove along its length. When the first connecting rod 311 rotates, it can slide relative to the second connecting rod 312 within the range of the connecting rod groove along its length. The second connecting rod 312 also has a second opening along its length. The second slider 33 has a second guide post that cooperates with the second opening. When the connecting rod part 31 rotates, the second guide post, under the action of the second opening, drives the second slider 33 to slide along the second slide groove 12. At the same time, the first connecting rod 311 has a first guide post that cooperates with the second opening. Similarly, when the connecting rod part 31 rotates, the first guide post, under the action of the second opening, drives the first slider 32 to slide along the first slide groove 11. The first connecting rod 311 also has a first opening that cooperates with the rotating shaft 313. When the first connecting rod 311 extends or extends along the length of the second connecting rod 312, the first opening of the first connecting rod 311 also plays a guiding role and prevents the first connecting rod 311 from deviating from the connecting rod groove.

[0127] Furthermore, the outer casing 1 is provided with a first limiting part and a second limiting part, and the second slider 33 is provided with a positioning part. The positioning part cooperates with the first limiting part and the second limiting part respectively to realize the rotational movement of the connecting rod part 31 within a certain range.

[0128] One end of the first slider 32 is rotatably engaged with the first connecting rod 311, and the other end is provided with a mounting part. The mounting part is a cylindrical mounting post with a through hole structure. A rotating part is also provided in conjunction with the mounting part, and the rotating part is connected to the door body 13. A first baffle is provided on the mounting part, and a second baffle is provided on the rotating part. A torsion spring is provided on the outer side of the mounting part, which cooperates with the first baffle and the second baffle. A guide part is provided on the outer shell 1. The torsion spring cooperates with the guide part provided on the inner side of the outer shell 1. The torsion spring and the guide part realize the switching between linear motion and rotational motion. The guide part has an arc-shaped guide structure. After the linear motion is converted into rotational motion, the torsion spring provides a restoring force. This configuration allows the rotational motion of the connecting rod 31 to be converted into the linear motion of the first slider 32, and then the linear motion of the first slider 32 to be converted into the rotational motion of the rotating part, and vice versa.

[0129] When the user manually opens the door 13, the door 13 rotates from a vertical position to a horizontal position, causing the rotating part to rotate and the first slider 32 to slide backward on the outer shell 1. During the sliding process, the first slider 32 causes the first connecting rod 311 and the second connecting rod 312 to rotate around the rotation center, and causes the second slider 33 to slide forward relative to the outer shell 1. At this time, the second slider 33 then causes the foam cleaning component 2 to move from the inside of the outer shell 1 to the outside of the outer shell 1, thereby realizing the movement of the foam cleaning component 2 from the storage position to the cleaning position.

[0130] Conversely, when the user manually pushes the foam cleaning component 2, the foam cleaning component 2 causes the second slider 33 to slide backward on the outer shell 1, causing the second connecting rod 312 to rotate around the rotation center. At the same time, it drives the first connecting rod 311 to rotate around the rotation center, causing the first slider 32 to slide forward relative to the outer shell 1. Simultaneously, it causes the rotating part to rotate, changing the door 13 from a horizontal position to a vertical position and closing the opening of the outer shell 1. Thus, the foam cleaning component 2 moves from the cleaning position to the storage position.

[0131] In some embodiments of the present invention, the linkage assembly 3 further includes a drive unit connected to the linkage portion 31, which drives the linkage portion 31 to rotate about the rotation center. The drive unit may be a motor.

[0132] In a further embodiment, when the door 13 opens the opening of the outer shell 1, the drive unit detects a current signal and drives the connecting rod 31 to rotate around the rotation center in the first direction, so that the foam cleaning assembly 2 automatically moves from the storage position to the cleaning position.

[0133] When the foam cleaning assembly 2 is pushed to move from the cleaning position to the storage position, the drive unit detects the current signal and drives the connecting rod 31 to rotate around the rotation center in the second direction, so that the door 13 closes the opening of the outer shell 1 automatically.

[0134] The above solution can help the foam cleaning component 2 switch between the storage position and the cleaning position, improving the user experience.

[0135] Some embodiments of the present invention also provide a control method for a foam local cleaning device, which is applied to the foam local cleaning device described above.

[0136] The foam spot cleaning device includes a water outlet component and a detergent foam generating component.

[0137] The water outlet assembly is used to provide cleaning water during localized cleaning; the detergent foam generating assembly is used to provide foamed detergent during localized cleaning.

[0138] Preferably, the water outlet assembly includes a water outlet unit 21 and a first sensing unit 22 for controlling whether the water outlet unit 21 is triggered; the detergent foam generating assembly includes a foam generating unit 23 and a second sensing unit 24 for controlling whether the foam generating unit 23 is triggered.

[0139] like Figure 9 and Figure 10 As shown, the control method includes the following steps:

[0140] Determine whether the distance between the sensing end of the water outlet component and the obstruction is less than its trigger distance. If so, control the water outlet component to be in a non-triggering state; otherwise, control the water outlet component to be in a triggering state.

[0141] Determine whether the distance between the sensing end of the detergent foam generating component and the obstruction is less than its trigger distance. If yes, control the detergent foam generating component to be in the triggered state; otherwise, control the detergent foam generating component to be in the non-triggered state.

[0142] Specifically, the foam local cleaning device also includes a housing 1, and the water outlet component and the detergent foam generating component have a storage position and a cleaning position relative to the housing 1, and can switch between the storage position and the cleaning position.

[0143] The water outlet assembly includes the water outlet unit 21 and the first sensing unit 22; the detergent foam generating assembly includes the foam generating unit 23 and the second sensing unit 24.

[0144] In the storage position, the bottom wall of the outer casing 1 serves as a shield for the water outlet assembly and the detergent foam generating assembly; in the cleaning position, the object to be cleaned serves as a shield for the water outlet assembly and the detergent foam generating assembly.

[0145] In existing technologies, sensing units dispense water or detergent when an obstruction is detected. However, the control logic of the first sensing unit 22 of this invention is the opposite of that of existing control logic. This is because the water dispensing component and the detergent foam generating component of this invention have a storage position and a washing position relative to the outer casing 1.

[0146] To minimize the space occupied by the foam spot cleaning device in the washing machine, the outer casing 1 is designed to be as small as possible. Therefore, when stored, the water outlet assembly and the detergent foam generating assembly should be as compact as possible. Since the water outlet assembly is located below the detergent foam generating assembly, the distance between the detergent foam generating assembly and the bottom wall of the outer casing 1 is relatively large when stored; it should be at least greater than the triggering distance of the second sensing unit 24. The distance between the first sensing unit 22 of the water outlet assembly and the bottom wall of the outer casing 1 is relatively small, less than the triggering distance of the first sensing unit 22.

[0147] If the existing control logic is used, the first sensing unit 22 will constantly detect obstructions and continuously discharge water when the storage position is reached.

[0148] To solve the above-mentioned technical problems, the present invention modifies the control logic of the water outlet component to control it in a non-triggered state when the distance between the sensing end of the water outlet component and the obstruction is less than its trigger distance, preventing the water outlet component from being activated and dispensing water; and to control it in a triggered state when the distance between the sensing end of the water outlet component and the obstruction is greater than or equal to its trigger distance, enabling the water outlet component to be activated and dispensing water. The control logic of the detergent foam generating component adopts the existing control logic, that is, to control it in a triggered state when the distance between the sensing end of the detergent foam generating component and the obstruction is less than its trigger distance, enabling the detergent foam generating component to dispense detergent; and to control it in a non-triggered state when the distance between the sensing end of the detergent foam generating component and the obstruction is greater than or equal to its trigger distance, preventing the detergent foam generating component from dispensing detergent.

[0149] The above control method not only solves the technical problem of continuous water output from the water outlet component when the foam local cleaning device is in the storage position due to its compact structure, but also helps to control the water outlet unit 21 and the foam generating unit 23 when the device is in the cleaning position.

[0150] In detail, taking the water outlet assembly and the detergent foam generating assembly in the cleaning position relative to the outer casing 1, with the foam local cleaning device mounted on the washing machine tray 5 as an example, the following explanation is provided. When the user has not yet placed the clothes under the foam local cleaning device, the first sensing unit 22 does not detect any obstruction, the water outlet unit 21 is in the triggered state, and may continuously discharge water or intermittently discharge water at a set frequency. The second sensing unit 24 does not detect any obstruction, the foam generating unit 23 is in the non-triggered state, and the foam generating unit 23 does not discharge detergent foam. When the user places the clothes under the foam local cleaning device, the first sensing unit 22 detects an obstruction, the water outlet unit 21 switches to the non-triggered state and stops discharging water, the second sensing unit 24 detects an obstruction, the foam generating unit 23 is in the triggered state, and the foam generating unit 23 discharges detergent foam.

[0151] Due to the lag in control, when the user places the clothes under the foam spot cleaning device, there is a certain delay between the water outlet unit 21 stopping the water flow and this delay is used to wet the clothes.

[0152] Furthermore, a delay time can be set for the water dispensing unit 21 to transition from a triggered state to a non-triggered state after the first sensing unit 22 senses an obstruction. This delay time ensures that the water dispensing is sufficient to wet the clothes. Similarly, the same delay time can be set for the foam generating unit 23 to transition from a non-triggered state to a triggered state after the second sensing unit 24 senses an obstruction. This allows for seamless integration of water and detergent dispensing.

[0153] In a further embodiment, after controlling the detergent foam generating component to be in the triggered state, the following steps are taken: controlling the detergent foam generating component to start dispensing detergent for a set time and then pausing the start until it is determined again whether the distance between the sensing end of the detergent foam generating component and the obstruction is less than its trigger distance.

[0154] The above solution can prevent continuous liquid discharge caused by accidental triggering.

[0155] It should be noted that a trigger position mark can be set at a suitable location on the washing tub or outer casing 1 of the washing machine so that the user can accurately place the clothes within the trigger range of the first sensing unit 22 and the second sensing unit 24.

[0156] In an alternative implementation, after controlling the water outlet component to be in a triggered state, the process includes: controlling the water outlet component to start discharging water; determining whether the detergent foam generating component has started discharging detergent, and if so, controlling the water outlet component to pause discharging water.

[0157] For certain special user needs, such as not wanting to apply foam detergent while clothes are wet, when placing clothes under the foam spot cleaning device, the user should pay special attention not to place them under the water outlet unit 21. In this case, the first sensing unit 22 will not detect any obstruction and will continue to dispense water. However, the second sensing unit 24 will detect the obstruction and control the foam generating unit 23 to dispense detergent foam. At this time, after the control unit detects that the foam generating unit 23 is in the triggered state and starts dispensing detergent, it should control the water outlet unit 21 to stop dispensing water even if the first sensing unit 22 does not detect any obstruction.

[0158] The above description is merely a preferred embodiment of the present invention and is not intended to limit the present invention in any way. Although the present invention has been disclosed above with reference to preferred embodiments, it is not intended to limit the present invention. Any person skilled in the art can make some modifications or alterations to the above-described technical content to create equivalent embodiments without departing from the scope of the present invention. Any simple modifications, equivalent changes, and alterations made to the above embodiments based on the technical essence of the present invention without departing from the scope of the present invention shall still fall within the scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. A foam local cleaning device, characterized in that: include: The outer shell has a cavity for housing; A foam cleaning assembly has a storage position and a cleaning position relative to the housing. In the storage position, the foam cleaning assembly is stored in the receiving cavity of the housing, and in the cleaning position, the foam cleaning assembly is located outside the receiving cavity of the housing. A movable component, connected to the housing and the foam cleaning component, is used to move the foam cleaning component between the storage position and the cleaning position; The foam cleaning assembly includes: The water outlet unit is used to provide cleaning water during localized cleaning. The first sensing unit is used to trigger the water outlet unit to dispense water when it senses clothing; A foam generating unit is used to provide foamed detergent during spot cleaning; The second sensing unit is used to trigger the foam generating unit to generate foam detergent when clothing is detected. The foam generating unit and the second sensing unit are disposed in a housing. The outlet of the foam generating unit and the sensing end of the second sensing unit are disposed on the bottom wall of the housing, and the outlet of the foam generating unit is located away from the housing relative to the sensing end of the second sensing unit. The water outlet unit and the first sensing unit are integrated into one unit and are located below the housing, avoiding the outlet of the foam generating unit and the sensing end of the second sensing unit.

2. The foam local cleaning device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The moving component includes a linkage assembly; The linkage assembly includes: The connecting rod is capable of rotating about a center of rotation. The first slider and the second slider are respectively disposed at both ends of the connecting rod portion and slide relative to the outer casing; The second slider is also connected to a handle, which is connected to the foam cleaning assembly. When the foam cleaning assembly is switched between the storage position and the cleaning position by pushing and pulling the handle, the second slider slides relative to the outer shell and drives the first slider to slide relative to the outer shell through the connecting rod. Alternatively, the linkage assembly may further include: The drive unit is connected to the rotation center of the connecting rod. The drive unit drives the connecting rod to rotate around the rotation center, causing the first slider and the second slider to slide on the outer casing, thereby switching the foam cleaning assembly between the storage position and the cleaning position.

3. The foam local cleaning device according to claim 2, characterized in that: The handle portion includes: The base has a first end and a second end, the first end of the base is connected to the second slider, the second end of the base is configured as an operating end, the base is located below the foam cleaning assembly, and a hollow part is provided corresponding to the part of the foam cleaning assembly to allow water from the foam cleaning assembly to flow through. A connecting wall has a first end and a second end opposite to each other, the first end of the connecting wall being connected to the foam cleaning assembly, and the second end of the connecting wall being connected to the first end of the base.

4. A foam local cleaning device according to any one of claims 2-3, characterized in that: The outer casing is provided with a first sliding groove and a second sliding groove; The first slider and the second slider are respectively disposed in the first slide groove and the second slide groove, and slide within the first slide groove and the second slide groove.

5. A foam local cleaning device according to claim 4, characterized in that: The connecting rod section includes a first connecting rod and a second connecting rod; One end of the first connecting rod is connected to the first slider, and the other end is slidably connected to the second connecting rod; the other end of the second connecting rod is connected to the second slider. The second link is connected to a rotating shaft and can rotate around the rotating shaft; When the second slider slides in the second groove, causing the second connecting rod to rotate around the rotation axis, the first connecting rod can slide relative to the second connecting rod along the length direction of the second connecting rod, and cause the first slider to slide in the first groove.

6. A foam local cleaning device according to claim 5, characterized in that: The second link is provided with a link groove, and the first link slides in the link groove so that the first link slides relative to the second link along the length direction of the second link.

7. The foam local cleaning device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The foam generating unit has a liquid outlet, a liquid inlet, and an air inlet; The foam generating unit includes: A gas-liquid mixing chamber is connected to the liquid outlet; A liquid pump, one end of which is connected to the liquid inlet, and the other end of which is connected to the gas-liquid mixing chamber; A gas pump, one end of which is connected to the air inlet and the other end of which is connected to the gas-liquid mixing chamber; A drive mechanism for driving the liquid pump and the gas pump is configured to receive a signal to start or stop the foam generating unit.

8. A washing machine, characterized in that, Includes the foam local cleaning device as described in any one of claims 1-7.

9. The washing machine according to claim 8, characterized in that, The device includes a housing, with a tray on top of the housing having a clothing loading port, and the foam local cleaning device is mounted on the tray.

10. The washing machine according to claim 9, characterized in that, The tray itself forms the outer shell of the foam local cleaning device, and when the foam cleaning component is in the storage position, the outward-facing side forms the sidewall of the clothing loading port.

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