A water inlet end cover and inner cylinder assembly

Abstract

The application belongs to the technical field of washing machines, and discloses a water inlet end cover and an inner drum assembly, wherein the water inlet end cover comprises a bottom wall and a side wall surrounding the bottom wall, the bottom wall and the side wall form a hollow chamber with an open side, a main water inlet communicating the hollow chamber with an external space is arranged on the bottom wall, and a protruding structure is arranged on the outer surface of the bottom wall and located at the outer periphery of the main water inlet. The water inlet end cover of the application can be applied to a washing machine and is installed at a water inlet position inside an inner drum. When the load in the drum covers the water inlet end cover, the protruding structure arranged at the outer periphery of the main water inlet can support the load and prevent the main water inlet from being blocked by the load, so that the water inlet is not blocked.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention belongs to the field of washing machine technology, specifically, it relates to a water inlet end cover and an inner drum assembly. Background Technology

[0002] Existing washing machines generally consist of a fixed outer drum and a rotating inner drum. The inner drum has multiple drainage holes on its wall, allowing it to connect with the outer drum. However, during the washing process, the washing water between the inner and outer drums is not utilized, resulting in waste. Simultaneously, some dirt generated during the washing process remains between the inner and outer drums, making it difficult to clean. Over time, this accumulation can contaminate the washing water and affect washing performance.

[0003] To address the aforementioned issues, existing technology proposes a washing machine without a drain hole on the inner drum. This creates a sealed space inside the inner drum during the washing process, allowing it to independently hold the washing water. This avoids water accumulation between the inner and outer drums, saving water consumption and significantly reducing dirt buildup. However, because the inner drum is enclosed during washing, the traditional method of introducing water into the inner drum by introducing water into the outer drum is no longer applicable.

[0004] To achieve water intake in the aforementioned holeless drum washing machine, existing technologies propose a hollow drive shaft connected to the drum, through which water enters the drum. To further increase the water intake coverage area and improve the intake effect, a water inlet cap is installed at the end of the drive shaft that extends into the drum, causing the water flow to be obstructed and splashed. However, since the water inlet cap is located inside the drum, the water inlet on it may be covered by a load inside the drum, preventing the water flow from smoothly entering the drum. In severe cases, the load may even block the water inlet, preventing water from flowing out and even causing leakage.

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

[0006] The technical problem to be solved by the present invention is to overcome the shortcomings of the prior art and provide an inlet end cap and inner cylinder assembly with a raised structure on the outer periphery of the main inlet. The raised structure supports a certain space around the main inlet to prevent the load inside the cylinder from covering the main inlet and affecting the outflow of the inlet water.

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

[0008] A water inlet cap includes a bottom wall and a side wall surrounding the bottom wall. The bottom wall and the side wall form a hollow cavity with one side open. A main water inlet is provided on the bottom wall, which connects the hollow cavity with the external space. A protruding structure is provided on the outer surface of the bottom wall around the main water inlet.

[0009] Furthermore, the protruding structure is arranged around the outer periphery of the main water inlet;

[0010] Preferably, the protrusion structure includes a plurality of protrusions;

[0011] More preferably, the plurality of said protrusions are evenly distributed along the outer periphery of the main inlet.

[0012] Furthermore, multiple first water inlets are also provided on the bottom wall around the main water inlet;

[0013] Preferably, the first water inlet and the protrusion are alternately arranged along the outer periphery of the main water inlet.

[0014] Furthermore, the width of the protrusion on the side closer to the main water inlet is greater than the width on the side farther from the main water inlet, and a gap is formed between two adjacent protrusions with the width gradually increasing in the direction away from the main water inlet; the first water inlet is disposed in the gap.

[0015] Furthermore, the water inlet end cap is also provided with a plurality of second water inlets, which are distributed around the main water inlet and located outside the area enclosed by the plurality of first water inlets.

[0016] Preferably, the first water inlet and the main water inlet are oriented parallel to each other, and the second water inlet is oriented perpendicular to the main water inlet.

[0017] Furthermore, a raised rib is provided on the side wall of the water inlet end cap, and the raised rib extends circumferentially along the side wall; the second water inlet is located between the outer periphery of the main water inlet and the raised rib.

[0018] Preferably, the rib extends circumferentially around the sidewall.

[0019] Furthermore, a partition is provided inside the hollow cavity to divide the hollow cavity into a water inlet chamber and an air overflow chamber; the main water inlet, the first water inlet, and the second water inlet are all connected to the water inlet chamber;

[0020] The side wall is also provided with several vent holes, which connect the vent cavity to the external space; the second water inlet and the vent holes are located on both sides of the rib.

[0021] Preferably, the orientation of the vent hole is perpendicular to the orientation of the main water inlet.

[0022] Furthermore, at least two ribs are spaced apart on the side wall, and the vent hole is located between two adjacent ribs;

[0023] Preferably, the vent is located between two adjacent ribs on the open side near the hollow cavity.

[0024] A washing machine includes an inner drum, wherein the water inlet cap described above is installed at the center of the bottom of the inner drum, and the opening of the hollow cavity faces the inner surface of the bottom of the drum.

[0025] Furthermore, an installation hole is provided at the center of the bottom of the cylinder, and a water inlet shaft is installed in the installation hole. The water outlet end of the water inlet shaft extends into the hollow cavity of the water inlet end cover.

[0026] The inlet end cap has a sleeve portion fitted onto the outlet end of the inlet shaft. The sleeve portion is sealed to the inlet shaft, dividing the hollow chamber into an inlet chamber that communicates with the outlet end of the inlet shaft and an overflow chamber that communicates with the mounting hole at the bottom of the cylinder.

[0027] The outer periphery of the mounting hole is provided with a flange extending into the overflow chamber along the axis of the water inlet shaft.

[0028] By adopting the above technical solution, the present invention has the following beneficial effects compared with the prior art.

[0029] The water inlet cap of the present invention can be applied to a washing machine and installed inside the inner drum. By providing a protruding structure on the outer periphery of the main water inlet, when the water inlet cap is covered by the load inside the inner drum during the water intake process, the protruding structure can support a certain gap around the main water inlet, preventing the load from directly covering the main water inlet and causing poor water intake. This avoids the main water inlet being blocked by the load, which would cause the water pressure of the incoming water to rise and cause leakage.

[0030] In the water inlet cap of this invention, the raised structure surrounds the main water inlet, which can more effectively prevent the load from adhering to the bottom wall where the main water inlet is located, thus preventing the main water inlet from becoming blocked. The arrangement of multiple first water inlets increases the water outlet area of ​​the water inlet cap, which can improve the water inlet rate and increase the coverage area of ​​the water flow, which is beneficial for wetting the load more quickly. The first water inlets and the multiple protrusions constituting the raised structure are alternately arranged. The protrusions can simultaneously support a certain gap around the main water inlet and the first water inlets, so that the first water inlets will not be covered or blocked by the load while the main water inlet is not blocked.

[0031] In the water inlet end cap of the present invention, the provision of the second water inlet further increases the water outlet area. Setting the water outlet direction of the second water inlet to be perpendicular to the water outlet direction of the main water inlet and the first water inlet is beneficial to forming a divergent water flow, thereby further increasing the coverage area of ​​the water flow.

[0032] When the water inlet cap of the present invention is installed inside the inner cylinder, the open side of the water inlet cap faces the inner wall of the inner cylinder. The raised ribs arranged around the side wall can block the water flow from flowing along the side wall surface to the open side, so that the water flow gathers at the raised ribs and can fall directly into the inner cylinder.

[0033] In this invention, the inlet end cap has an inlet chamber and an overflow chamber inside, and an overflow hole connects the overflow chamber to the external space to balance the air pressure during water intake, allowing the water to flow smoothly into the inner cylinder. The raised rib on the side wall, located between the second inlet and the overflow hole, prevents the water from flowing out of the inlet end cap and into the overflow hole, thus avoiding affecting the effectiveness of the overflow hole.

[0034] In the inner cylinder assembly of the present invention, a flange is provided on the bottom of the inner cylinder at the outer periphery of the mounting hole. Even if water flows into the overflow chamber through the overflow hole, the presence of the flange makes the flow path complex, and the water is not easy to leak out from the mounting hole.

[0035] The specific embodiments of the present invention will now be described in further detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Attached Figure Description

[0036] 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:

[0037] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the water inlet end cap in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0038] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of one side of the bottom wall of the water inlet end cap in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0039] Figure 3 This is the present invention. Figure 2 Schematic diagram of section AA;

[0040] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the water inlet end cap from another perspective in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0041] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the inner cylinder assembly in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0042] Figure 6 This is the present invention. Figure 5 A partial schematic diagram of the BB section;

[0043] Figure 7 This is the present invention. Figure 5A partial schematic diagram of the CC section;

[0044] Figure 8 This is an exploded view of the water inlet cap and locking mechanism in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0045] Figure 9 This is an exploded view of the water inlet cap and locking mechanism in an embodiment of the present invention from another perspective.

[0046] In the diagram: 100, Water inlet cap; 101, Main water inlet; 102, First water inlet; 103, Second water inlet; 104, Air vent; 111, Bottom wall; 112, Side wall; 113, Transition surface; 121, Water inlet cavity; 122, Air vent cavity; 131, Protrusion; 132, Rib; 140, Connecting part; 141, Limiting surface; 142, Snap ring groove; 1 43. Sealing groove; 144. Ball bearing hole; 145. Small diameter section; 146. Large diameter section; 150. Ball bearing; 160. Snap ring; 170. Seal; 200. Locking sleeve; 201. Locking part; 202. Disassembly groove; 210. Elastic element; 300. Water inlet shaft; 301. Snap groove; 400. Inner cylinder; 410. Cylinder bottom; 411. Flanged edge; 420. Tripod.

[0047] 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

[0048] 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.

[0049] In the description of this invention, it should be noted that the terms "left", "right", "inner", "outer", etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They are only for the convenience of describing this invention and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on this invention.

[0050] In the description of this invention, it should be noted that, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "installation" and "connection" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this invention based on the specific circumstances.

[0051] Example 1

[0052] like Figures 1 to 7 As shown, this embodiment provides a water inlet end cap 100 and an inner cylinder assembly including the water inlet end cap 100.

[0053] The inlet cap 100 of this embodiment includes a bottom wall 111 and a side wall 112 surrounding the bottom wall 111. The bottom wall 111 and the side wall 112 form a hollow cavity with one side open. A main inlet 101 communicating with the hollow cavity and the external space is provided on the bottom wall 111, and a protruding structure is provided on the outer surface of the bottom wall 111 around the main inlet 101.

[0054] The inlet cap 100 in this embodiment is specifically used in a washing machine and is installed on the inner drum 400 of the washing machine. The water flow of the washing machine enters the inner drum 400 through the inlet cap 100. The load to be washed is placed inside the inner drum 400 and may cover the outer surface of the inlet cap 100, affecting the water flow from the main inlet 101. When the load inside the inner drum 400 is large, it may even cause the main inlet 101 to be blocked by the load, preventing the water flow from exiting, resulting in an increase in water pressure in the water inlet circuit, which may lead to water leakage.

[0055] In this embodiment, by providing a raised structure around the main inlet 101, even if a load covers the inlet end cap 100, the raised structure can support a certain gap around the main inlet 101, preventing the load from completely adhering to the outer periphery of the main inlet 101. Because the load can be supported by the raised structure, a certain water outlet space is left around the main inlet 101, avoiding the problem of poor water intake caused by the load directly covering the main inlet 101.

[0056] In a further embodiment, the protruding structure is arranged around the outer periphery of the main inlet 101, supporting a certain gap in all directions around the main inlet 101, thereby more effectively preventing the load inside the cylinder from sticking to the bottom wall 111 where the main inlet 101 is located, and preventing the main inlet 101 from being blocked.

[0057] Preferably, the protruding structure includes a plurality of protrusions 131. More preferably, the plurality of protrusions 131 are evenly distributed along the outer periphery of the main inlet 101.

[0058] Furthermore, multiple first inlets 102 are provided on the bottom wall 111 around the main inlet 101. When the incoming water flows into the hollow cavity of the inlet end cover 100, it can flow out simultaneously from the main inlet 101 and the multiple first inlets 102 arranged around it, increasing the water outlet area, thereby achieving a faster water intake speed and shortening the water intake time.

[0059] On the other hand, the simultaneous outflow of water from the main water inlet 101 and multiple first water inlets 102 increases the coverage area of ​​the incoming water flow within the inner drum 400, which helps to wet the load inside the drum more quickly, ensuring that the load is fully soaked during the washing process and improving the washing effect.

[0060] In this embodiment, the first water inlet 102 and the protrusion 131 are both arranged around the main water inlet 101, and preferably the two are alternately arranged along the outer periphery of the main water inlet 101.

[0061] In the above scheme, protrusions 131 are provided on both sides of each first water inlet 102, so that the protrusions 131 can also support a certain gap around the first water inlet 102. While ensuring that the main water inlet 101 is not covered by the load, the first water inlet 102 can also be prevented from being covered or blocked.

[0062] In this embodiment, the water inlet cap 100 is generally shaped like an inverted bowl, and both the main water inlet 101 and the first water inlet 102 are circular. The main water inlet 101 is located at the center of the circular bottom wall 111, and the first water inlet 102 is arranged around the main water inlet 101, with the diameter of the main water inlet 101 being larger than the diameter of the first water inlet 102.

[0063] The incoming water mainly flows out from the main inlet 101, and the first inlet 102 is used to disperse the incoming water flow, thereby forming a certain spray water intake effect.

[0064] In a further embodiment, the width of the protrusion 131 on the side closer to the main inlet 101 is greater than the width on the side farther from the main inlet 101, and a gap is formed between two adjacent protrusions 131, with the width gradually increasing in the direction away from the main inlet 101. The first inlet 102 is disposed in the gap.

[0065] In the above scheme, through the structural design of the protrusion 131, the outer periphery of the main water inlet 101 is basically completely surrounded by one side of the protrusion 131, providing good support for the area around the main water inlet 101. Adjacent protrusions 131 form a certain angle on the bottom wall 111, with the first water inlet 102 located within this angle. This provides more complete enclosure of the first water inlet 102, thus better preventing it from being covered by the load.

[0066] In detail, the protrusion 131 in this embodiment has an icicle-like structure, and its cross-sectional area parallel to the bottom wall 111 gradually decreases in the direction away from the bottom wall 111. A gap with gradually increasing width is formed between two adjacent protrusions 131 in the direction perpendicular to the bottom wall 111. After the load is supported by the protrusions 131, a gap is formed between two adjacent protrusions 131 that allows water to flow through, which better prevents the water from being blocked.

[0067] In a further embodiment, the water inlet end cap 100 is also provided with a plurality of second water inlets 103, which are distributed circumferentially along the main water inlet 101 and are located outside the area enclosed by the plurality of first water inlets 102.

[0068] In the above scheme, the second inlet 103 further increases the outlet area of ​​the inlet end cap 100, thereby achieving higher water intake efficiency and a larger water flow coverage area. The second inlet 103 is also circular, with a diameter smaller than that of the main inlet 101 and approximately the same as that of the first inlet 102. The main inlet 101, the first inlet 102, and the second inlet 103 work together to create a better spray water intake effect.

[0069] Preferably, the orientation of the first inlet 102 is parallel to that of the main inlet 101, and the orientation of the second inlet 103 is perpendicular to that of the main inlet 101.

[0070] Specifically, the water inlet cap 100 has a circular bottom wall 111. The main water inlet 101 and the first water inlet 102 are oriented parallel to the axial direction of the bottom wall 111, and the second water inlet 103 is oriented radially parallel to the bottom wall 111. A transition surface 113 is provided between the bottom wall 111 and the side wall 112 of the water inlet cap 100, and the outlet end of the second water inlet 103 is located on the transition surface 113. When the load inside the inner drum 400 is large, such as when the washing machine is fully loaded, even if the load covers the bottom wall 111 of the water inlet cap 100, the second water inlet 103 can still discharge water normally without significantly affecting the water intake process.

[0071] The orientation of the second inlet 103 is perpendicular to that of the main inlet 101 and the first inlet 102, so that the water outlet direction of the second inlet 103 is perpendicular to the water outlet direction of the main inlet 101 and the first inlet 102, which is conducive to forming a more diffuse water flow and further increasing the coverage area of ​​the water flow.

[0072] In a further embodiment, a rib 132 is provided on the side wall 112 of the water inlet cap 100, and the rib 132 extends circumferentially along the side wall 112. The second water inlet 103 is located between the outer periphery of the main water inlet 101 and the rib 132.

[0073] Preferably, the rib 132 extends circumferentially around the sidewall 112.

[0074] In this embodiment, the open side of the water inlet cap 100 is installed facing the inner wall of the inner cylinder 400. By providing a rib 132 on the side wall 112, the water flow can be blocked from flowing along the surface of the side wall 112 towards the open side. The blocked water flow gathers at the rib 132 and is more likely to drip into the inner cylinder 400.

[0075] Furthermore, a partition is provided within the hollow cavity to divide it into a water inlet chamber 121 and an overflow chamber 122. The main water inlet 101, the first water inlet 102, and the second water inlet 103 are all connected to the water inlet chamber 121. Several overflow holes 104 are also provided on the side wall 112, connecting the overflow chamber 122 to the external space. The second water inlet 103 and the overflow holes 104 are located on opposite sides of the protruding rib 132.

[0076] In this embodiment, the water inlet cap 100 is specifically installed on the inner drum 400, which does not have a dewatering hole. The inner drum 400 can independently hold water during washing and rinsing, thus forming a relatively sealed space inside the inner drum 400 during water intake. The air overflow hole 104 and the air overflow chamber 122 connect the inside of the inner drum 400 with the external space, thereby balancing the air pressure during water intake and allowing the water to flow smoothly into the inner drum 400.

[0077] By setting the rib 132 to separate the overflow hole 104 from the main water inlet 101, the first water inlet 102 and the second water inlet 103, the water flowing out of the water inlet end cover 100 can be blocked from flowing along the outer surface of the water inlet end cover 100 to the overflow hole 104, thus preventing water from entering the overflow hole 104 and causing the overflow path to be blocked.

[0078] In a further embodiment, at least two ribs 132 are spaced apart on the side wall 112, and an vent hole 104 is disposed between two adjacent ribs 132.

[0079] Preferably, at least three ribs 132 are provided at intervals on the side wall 112, and the vent 104 is provided between two adjacent ribs 132 on the open side near the hollow cavity.

[0080] In the above scheme, the vent 104 is positioned between two ribs 132, which helps prevent the vent 104 from being covered by the load, thus blocking the venting path. The vent 104 is positioned on the side closest to the opening, so the water flowing along the surface of the inlet end cap 100 needs to pass over two or more ribs 132 to reach the area where the vent 104 is located, thereby maximizing the protection that the water flow will not enter the vent 104.

[0081] This embodiment also provides an inner cylinder assembly, including an inner cylinder 400, with a water inlet cap 100 installed at the center of the bottom 410 of the inner cylinder 400, and the opening of the hollow chamber facing the inner surface of the bottom 410.

[0082] Furthermore, an installation hole is provided at the center of the bottom of the cylinder 410, and an inlet shaft 300 is installed in the installation hole. The outlet end of the inlet shaft 300 extends into the hollow cavity of the inlet end cover 100.

[0083] The inlet end cap 100 has a sleeve portion 140 sleeved on the outlet end of the inlet shaft 300. The sleeve portion 140 is sealed to the inlet shaft 300, dividing the hollow chamber into an inlet chamber 121 that communicates with the outlet end of the inlet shaft 300, and an overflow chamber 122 that communicates with the mounting hole of the bottom of the cylinder 410.

[0084] The outer periphery of the mounting hole is provided with a flange 411 that extends into the overflow chamber 122 along the axis of the water inlet shaft 300.

[0085] In this embodiment, the sleeve portion 140 is sleeved on the right end of the water inlet shaft 300, and the left end of the sleeve portion 140 extends to the mounting hole at the bottom of the cylinder 410, so that the flange 411 is arranged around the sleeve portion 140. There is a certain gap between the inner wall of the flange 411 and the outer wall of the sleeve portion 140, thereby connecting the overflow chamber 122 of the water inlet end cap 100 with the external space of the inner cylinder 400.

[0086] During the water intake process, air inside the inner cylinder 400 can enter the vent chamber 122 through the vent hole 104, and then flow out of the inner cylinder 400 through the gap between the flange 411 and the sleeve part 140, thereby achieving the purpose of balancing air pressure. However, for the water flow entering through the vent hole 104, due to its flow path (such as... Figure 6 (As shown by the middle arrow) It needs to go over the flange 411 and will not easily leak out from the mounting hole.

[0087] In a preferred embodiment, the vent 104 is oriented perpendicular to the main inlet 101. In conjunction with the flange 411 located around the mounting hole, water flowing into the vent 104 will create convection and will not leak from the mounting hole at the bottom of the cylinder 410.

[0088] Furthermore, a sealing ring is provided at the opening of the water inlet cap 100. When the water inlet cap 100 is installed in the inner cylinder 400, the sealing ring is sealed and fitted to the inner surface of the cylinder bottom 410, so that the water inlet cap 100 and the cylinder bottom 410 are completely sealed, and the water in the inner cylinder 400 will not enter the air overflow chamber 122 through the opening of the water inlet cap 100.

[0089] In this embodiment, protrusions 131 and ribs 132 are provided on the outer surface of the water inlet cap 100, thereby forming a raised structure that can support a certain gap between the load and the surface of the water inlet cap 100. This prevents the load inside the cylinder from adhering to the outer periphery of the main water inlet 101, the first water inlet 102, and the second water inlet 103, which could lead to poor water intake or even blockage of the water flow. The relative positional relationship between the vent hole 104, the second water inlet 103, and the ribs 132 also prevents the water flow from flowing along the surface of the water inlet cap 100 into the vent hole 104, ensuring the effective function of the vent hole 104.

[0090] Example 2

[0091] like Figures 1 to 9 As shown, this embodiment further defines Embodiment 1 above. In the inner cylinder assembly, a recessed groove 301 is provided on the outer wall of the water inlet shaft 300, and a limiting member is provided on the sleeve portion 140. The limiting member is radially movable on the sleeve portion 140, thereby engaging or disengaging from the groove 301. A locking mechanism is also provided to maintain the limiting member in the limited position of engaging with the groove 301.

[0092] In the above scheme, a movable limiting member is provided on the sleeve part 140. The limiting member and the sleeve part 140 can move relative to each other, thereby realizing the insertion into or removal from the slot 301. The locking structure can keep the limiting member in the slot 301, thus ensuring that the water inlet cap 100 is securely connected to the water outlet end of the water inlet shaft 300 and will not fall off. When it is necessary to remove the water inlet cap 100, simply operate the locking mechanism to release its effect on the limiting member, and the limiting member can be removed from the slot 301. At this time, the water inlet cap 100 can be removed from the water inlet shaft 300.

[0093] In a further embodiment of this invention, the locking mechanism includes:

[0094] The locking sleeve 200 is axially movable along the water inlet shaft 300 and is fitted onto the sleeve portion 140. It has a locking portion 201 that abuts against the limiting member, keeping the limiting member in a limited position where it is engaged in the slot 301.

[0095] The elastic element 210 abuts against the water inlet end cap 100 at one end and against the locking sleeve 200 at the other end, maintaining the relative position of the locking sleeve 200 and the sleeve portion 140, so that the locking portion 201 and the limiting element remain in abutting state.

[0096] In the specific solution of this embodiment, at least one ball hole 144 is provided on the sleeve portion 140, and the limiting member is a ball 150 installed in the ball hole 144.

[0097] Preferably, the inner diameter of the ball hole 144 on the inner wall of the sleeve portion 140 is smaller than the diameter of the ball 150, so as to prevent the ball 150 from coming out of the inside of the sleeve portion 140 after the water inlet cap 100 is removed.

[0098] In this embodiment, the ball bearing 150 is axially confined within the ball bearing hole 144 of the sleeve portion 140, and the locking sleeve 200 can move left and right on the sleeve portion 140. When installing the water inlet end cap 100, the locking sleeve 200 is moved to the right, so that the locking part 201 is axially intersected with the ball bearing hole 144. At this time, the ball bearing 150 can move freely in the radial direction, thereby allowing the water inlet shaft 300 to be inserted into the sleeve portion 140. After installation, the locking sleeve 200 is released, and the locking sleeve 200 moves to the left to reset under the elastic force of the elastic member 210. The locking part 201 gradually approaches the ball bearing hole 144, pushing the ball bearing 150 inside to move inward until the ball bearing 150 is engaged in the slot 301.

[0099] If the inlet cap 100 is pulled directly to the right at this time, the ball bearing 150 cannot move outward because it is abutting against the locking part 201. It is thus stuck in the groove 301 on the inlet shaft 300, preventing the sleeve part 140 from moving axially. Therefore, the inlet cap 100 cannot be directly removed, and the connection is secure. By moving the locking sleeve 200 appropriately to the right, the locking part 201 moves to the right to open the ball bearing hole 144, and the ball bearing 150 is no longer limited. Then, by pulling the inlet cap 100 to the right again, the ball bearing 150 can be dislodged from the groove 301, allowing the inlet cap 100 to be removed from the inlet shaft 300 as a whole.

[0100] In a preferred embodiment, the locking sleeve 200 is at least partially made of a material that can be attracted by a magnet. Since the locking sleeve 200 is enclosed inside the water inlet cap 100, the user cannot directly touch the locking sleeve 200 to move it. By using a material that can be attracted by a magnet to move the locking sleeve 200 from outside the water inlet cap 100, the inconvenience of not being able to directly touch the locking sleeve 200 to move it is solved.

[0101] Another method for moving the lock sleeve 200 in this embodiment is to insert a tool into the hollow cavity through the vent hole 104 on the side wall 112 and move the lock sleeve 200 by using the tool.

[0102] Preferably, the surface of the lock sleeve 200 is provided with a protruding or recessed disassembly part, which can be moved by using a tool to move the lock sleeve 200. Since the disassembly part protrudes or recesses from the surface of the lock sleeve 200, it is easier to apply force to the lock sleeve 200 with a tool, thereby realizing the movement of the lock sleeve 200.

[0103] More preferably, the disassembly / assembly part is a recessed disassembly / assembly groove 202 provided on the outer side wall of the lock sleeve 200. A tool is inserted through the vent hole 104 and the end of the tool is inserted into the disassembly / assembly groove 202 to move the lock sleeve 200. The operation is simple and easy to implement.

[0104] In a further embodiment, the locking sleeve 200 extends a certain length along the axial direction, and a locking part 201 is formed by a protrusion in the middle region of the inner wall of the locking sleeve 200. An avoidance space is formed between the locking part 201 and the left end of the locking sleeve 200.

[0105] When the locking sleeve 200 moves to the point where the locking part 201 and the ball 150 are axially intersected, and the ball 150 moves radially outward along the sleeve part 140 to disengage from the slot 301, it at least partially enters the clearance space.

[0106] In the above scheme, the inner surface of the locking part 201 is in close contact with the outer wall of the sleeve part 140. When the locking part 201 and the ball hole 144 are axially opposite each other, the inner surface of the locking part 201 abuts against the ball 150. When the locking part 201 moves to the right with the locking sleeve 200, the axial positions of the locking part 201 and the ball hole 144 are staggered, and the ball 150 can move radially outward along the sleeve part 140, so that the ball 150 protrudes from the outside of the sleeve part 140.

[0107] The left end of the locking sleeve 200 has a clearance space to allow the ball 150 to protrude from the sleeve portion 140. At the same time, the distance between the inner wall of the left end of the locking sleeve 200 and the outer wall of the sleeve portion 140 is smaller than the diameter of the ball 150, which can form a circumferential barrier on the outside of the sleeve portion 140 to prevent the ball 150 from completely dislodging from the ball hole 144 and falling out of the gap between the locking sleeve 200 and the sleeve portion 140.

[0108] Specifically, the inner diameter of the ball hole 144 on the outer wall of the sleeve 140 is also smaller than the diameter of the ball 150. Within a certain range along the radial direction of the sleeve 140, the inner diameter of the ball hole 144 is greater than or equal to the diameter of the ball 150. This allows the ball 150 to have a certain range of free movement within the ball hole 144 along the radial direction of the sleeve 140, enabling it to engage with and disengage from the slot 301. At the same time, because the inner diameters at both ends of the ball hole 144 are relatively small, the ball 150 can be confined within the ball hole 144 and will not fall out.

[0109] In a further embodiment, the socket 140 includes a mounting limiting member, namely a small-diameter section 145 of the ball bearing 150, and a large-diameter section 146 disposed at one end of the small-diameter section 145. Specifically, the clearance space is located at the left end of the small-diameter section 145, and the large-diameter section 146 is disposed at the right end of the small-diameter section 145.

[0110] A limiting surface 141 is formed at the connection between the small diameter section 145 and the large diameter section 146. The elastic element 210 is a spring sleeved on the small diameter section 145. One end of the spring abuts against the limiting surface 141, and the other end abuts against the surface of the locking part 201 facing the limiting surface 141.

[0111] Specifically, the inner diameter of the left end of the lock sleeve 200 is larger than the outer diameter of the large diameter section 146 on the sleeve portion 140, forming an accommodating space between the inner side of the left end region of the lock sleeve 200 and the outer side of the small diameter section 145 of the sleeve portion 140. The elastic element 210 is spring-loaded on the small diameter section 145 and located inside the accommodating space, applying a leftward elastic force to the lock sleeve 200.

[0112] Furthermore, a limiting mechanism protruding from its outer wall is provided on the small diameter section 145, and the surface of the locking part 201 facing away from the limiting surface 141 abuts against the limiting mechanism.

[0113] Preferably, a recessed retaining ring groove 142 is provided on the outer wall of the small diameter section 145, and the limiting mechanism includes a retaining ring 160 disposed in the retaining ring groove 142, the retaining ring 160 protruding from the outer wall of the small diameter section 145.

[0114] The limiting mechanism, namely the snap ring 160, is set at the left end of the sleeve 140 to limit the locking sleeve 200 and prevent the locking sleeve 200 from falling off the sleeve 140.

[0115] In this embodiment, a sealing element 170 is provided between the inner wall of the sleeve portion 140 and the outer wall of the water inlet shaft 300.

[0116] Preferably, the sealing element 170 is sleeved on the water inlet shaft 300 and located between the slot 301 and the water outlet end of the water inlet shaft 300.

[0117] Specifically, a recessed sealing groove 143 is provided on the inner wall of the sleeve portion 140, and the sealing element 170 is installed in the sealing groove 143. The inner wall of the sealing element 170 is interference-fitted with the water inlet shaft 300, and when the sleeve portion 140 is sleeved onto the water outlet end of the water inlet shaft 300, the inner wall of the sealing element 170 fits and seals against the outer wall of the water inlet shaft 300.

[0118] In the above solution, the sealing element 170 prevents water flowing out of the water outlet of the water inlet shaft 300 from flowing to the left through the gap between the water inlet shaft 300 and the sleeve part 140, and thus leaking out from the bottom of the cylinder 410.

[0119] In this embodiment, a tripod 420 is fixedly connected to the outer side of the drum bottom 410, and the water inlet shaft 300 is connected to the tripod 420. When the inner drum assembly is used in a washing machine, the water inlet shaft 300 is driven to rotate by a drive device, which in turn drives the inner drum 400 to rotate via the tripod 420.

[0120] In a further embodiment, the diameter of the mounting hole on the bottom of the cylinder 410 is larger than the outer diameter of the sleeve portion 140 near the bottom of the cylinder 410 and smaller than the inner diameter of the left end of the locking sleeve 200. The flange 411 on the outer periphery of the mounting hole extends into the clearance space formed between the left end of the locking sleeve 200 and the sleeve portion 140. There is a certain distance between the inner side of the flange 411 and the outer wall of the sleeve portion 140, between the surface of the locking portion 201 facing the bottom of the cylinder 410 and the extended end of the flange 411, and between the outer side of the flange 411 and the inner wall of the locking sleeve 200.

[0121] In the above scheme, for the water in the overflow chamber 122 to overflow from the gap between the mounting hole and the sleeve 140, it needs to first pass through the gap between the left end of the locking sleeve 200 and the bottom of the cylinder 410 into the clearance space. In the clearance space, it first flows to the right, then past the flange 411 and then to the left, before finally flowing out of the inner cylinder 400. The flow path (e.g.) Figure 6 (As indicated by the middle arrow) is more complex and more difficult to overflow, thus making it more effective in preventing leakage of the inner cylinder 400.

[0122] In this embodiment, the water inlet end cap 100 comprises a quick-connect structure consisting of a sleeve 140, a ball bearing 150, a locking sleeve 200, and an elastic element 210. Moving the locking sleeve 200 to the right allows the water inlet end cap 100 to be installed onto the end of the water inlet shaft 300. After releasing the locking sleeve 200, the quick-connect structure self-locks with the water inlet shaft 300, preventing the water inlet end cap 100 from being pulled off directly, ensuring a secure installation. To remove the water inlet end cap 100, moving the locking sleeve 200 to the right unlocks the quick-connect structure, and then pulling the water inlet end cap 100 to the right removes it. The installation and removal of the water inlet end cap 100 are simple and easy, facilitating maintenance and parts replacement. Furthermore, the water inlet end cap 100 is securely installed and will not easily fall off, making the structure more reliable.

[0123] Meanwhile, the flange 411 on the outer periphery of the mounting hole at the bottom of the cylinder 410, in conjunction with the structure of the water inlet cap 100 and the locking sleeve 200, forms a complex connecting path near the mounting hole at the bottom of the cylinder 410 to connect the inner and outer spaces of the inner cylinder 400. During water intake, air inside the cylinder can overflow through the connecting path to balance the air pressure inside the cylinder, but water overflow is difficult, thus avoiding the problem of water leakage from the inner cylinder 400 caused by the existence of this connecting path.

[0124] 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 water inlet cap, comprising a bottom wall and side walls surrounding the bottom wall, the bottom wall and side walls forming a hollow cavity with one open side, and a main water inlet communicating with the hollow cavity and an external space provided on the bottom wall, characterized in that, A raised structure is provided on the outer surface of the bottom wall around the main inlet. The side wall of the water inlet cap is provided with a raised rib, which extends circumferentially around the side wall; a second water inlet is provided between the outer periphery of the main water inlet and the raised rib.

2. The inlet cap according to claim 1, characterized in that, The protruding structure is arranged around the outer periphery of the main water inlet.

3. The inlet cap according to claim 2, characterized in that, The protruding structure includes multiple protrusions.

4. The inlet cap according to claim 3, characterized in that, The plurality of protrusions are evenly distributed along the outer periphery of the main inlet.

5. The inlet cap according to claim 3, characterized in that, Multiple first water inlets are also provided on the bottom wall around the main water inlet.

6. The inlet cap according to claim 5, characterized in that, The first water inlet and the protrusion are alternately arranged along the outer periphery of the main water inlet.

7. The inlet cap according to claim 6, characterized in that, The width of the protrusion on the side closer to the main water inlet is greater than the width on the side farther from the main water inlet, and a gap is formed between two adjacent protrusions with the width gradually increasing in the direction away from the main water inlet; the first water inlet is disposed in the gap.

8. The inlet cap according to any one of claims 5-7, characterized in that, Multiple second water inlets are provided, and the multiple second water inlets are distributed around the main water inlet and located outside the area enclosed by the multiple first water inlets.

9. The water inlet end cap according to claim 8, characterized in that, The first water inlet is parallel to the main water inlet, and the second water inlet is perpendicular to the main water inlet.

10. The water inlet end cap according to claim 8, characterized in that, The hollow cavity is provided with a partition to divide the hollow cavity into a water inlet chamber and an air overflow chamber; the main water inlet, the first water inlet and the second water inlet are all connected to the water inlet chamber. Several vent holes are also provided on the side wall, and the vent holes connect the vent cavity to the external space; the second water inlet and the vent holes are located on both sides of the rib respectively.

11. The inlet cap according to claim 10, characterized in that, The vent hole is oriented perpendicular to the main inlet.

12. The inlet cap according to claim 10, characterized in that, At least two raised ribs are provided at intervals on the side wall, and the vent hole is located between two adjacent raised ribs.

13. The inlet cap according to claim 12, characterized in that, The vent is located between two adjacent ribs on the open side near the hollow cavity.

14. An inner cylinder assembly, comprising an inner cylinder, characterized in that, The water inlet cap as described in any one of claims 1-13 is installed at the center of the bottom of the inner cylinder, and the opening of the hollow cavity faces the inner surface of the bottom of the cylinder.

15. The inner cylinder assembly according to claim 14, characterized in that, An installation hole is provided at the center of the bottom of the cylinder, and a water inlet shaft is installed in the installation hole. The water outlet end of the water inlet shaft extends into the hollow cavity of the water inlet end cover. The inlet end cap has a sleeve portion fitted onto the outlet end of the inlet shaft. The sleeve portion is sealed to the inlet shaft, dividing the hollow chamber into an inlet chamber that communicates with the outlet end of the inlet shaft and an overflow chamber that communicates with the mounting hole at the bottom of the cylinder. The outer periphery of the mounting hole is provided with a flange extending into the overflow chamber along the axis of the water inlet shaft.

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