End cap, motor assembly and washing machine

Abstract

The application discloses an end cover, a motor assembly and a washing machine, and the end cover comprises a support body, the support body is a plastic part, the support body comprises a connecting part, a first mounting part and a second mounting part, the connecting part is provided with a mounting hole penetrating through the connecting part in the thickness direction of the connecting part, the first mounting part is arranged on the outer peripheral wall of the connecting part, and the second mounting part is spaced apart from the connecting part in the axial direction of the mounting hole; and a bearing cover, the bearing cover is a metal part, the bearing cover is located in the mounting hole, and the outer periphery of the bearing cover is embedded in the connecting part. According to the end cover provided by the application, the connection reliability of the bearing cover and the support body during motor operation is ensured, the two are prevented from falling off, the support body is a plastic part, the bearing cover is a metal part, the overall weight of the end cover is reduced while the reliability of the end cover is ensured, and the production cost is reduced.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of household appliance technology, and in particular to an end cap, a motor assembly, and a washing machine. Background Technology

[0002] In existing technologies, motors are typically mounted on household appliances via mounting structures; for example, the motor of a washing machine is mounted on the washing machine via an end cover. However, existing end covers are made of die-cast aluminum alloy and then precision-machined, which results in high costs for aluminum materials and precision machining, as well as a heavy end cover that contributes to the weight of the motor. Summary of the Invention

[0003] The present invention aims to at least solve one of the technical problems existing in the prior art. To this end, the present invention proposes an end cap that reduces the overall weight while ensuring the overall structural strength and has low production cost.

[0004] Another object of the present invention is to provide a motor assembly having the above-described end cap.

[0005] Another object of the present invention is to provide a washing machine having the above-described motor assembly.

[0006] According to an embodiment of the present invention, an end cap includes: a support body, the support body being a plastic part, the support body including a connecting portion, a first mounting portion and a second mounting portion, the connecting portion having a mounting hole penetrating the connecting portion in the thickness direction of the connecting portion, the first mounting portion being disposed on the outer peripheral wall of the connecting portion, and the second mounting portion being spaced apart from the connecting portion in the axial direction of the mounting hole; and a bearing cap, the bearing cap being a metal part, the bearing cap being located within the mounting hole and the outer peripheral edge of the bearing cap being embedded in the connecting portion.

[0007] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the end cap includes a connecting portion, a first mounting portion, and a second mounting portion in the support body. The connecting portion has a mounting hole penetrating the connecting portion in the thickness direction. The first mounting portion is disposed on the outer peripheral wall of the connecting portion. In the axial direction of the mounting hole, the second mounting portion is spaced apart from the connecting portion, so that the motor can be assembled onto the household appliance through the end cap. Simultaneously, because the connecting portion has a mounting hole penetrating the connecting portion in the thickness direction, the bearing cap is located within the mounting hole, and the outer peripheral edge of the bearing cap is embedded in the connecting portion, thereby achieving the installation and fixation of the motor rotor bearing and ensuring the reliability of the connection between the bearing cap and the support body during motor operation, preventing them from falling off. Furthermore, by using a plastic part for the support body and a metal part for the bearing cap, the overall weight of the end cap is reduced while ensuring the reliability of the end cap, thus lowering production costs.

[0008] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the bearing cover includes a body having a bearing chamber and an opening that are in communication with each other, and an insert portion having an outer peripheral wall of the body that extends in a ring shape along the circumference of the body and is embedded in the connecting portion.

[0009] According to some embodiments of the present invention, a plurality of protrusions are provided along the outer peripheral wall of the embedded portion, and the plurality of protrusions are spaced apart along the circumferential direction of the embedded portion.

[0010] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the embedding portion has a plurality of through holes spaced apart along the circumferential direction of the embedding portion, and the plurality of through holes correspond one-to-one with the plurality of protrusions in the radial direction of the embedding portion.

[0011] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the bottom wall of the body opposite to the opening has an assembly hole communicating with the bearing chamber.

[0012] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the embedding portion is disposed at one end of the body having the opening, or the embedding portion extends from one end of the body in the axial direction to the other end.

[0013] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the embedding part has a first conductive hole, the first mounting part has a connecting hole, the connecting part has a connecting groove, the connecting groove extends radially along the mounting hole to the mounting hole and one of the connecting holes, the support body further includes a first fastener, a second fastener and a conductive element, the first fastener passes through the first conductive hole and is connected to the connecting part, the second fastener passes through the connecting hole, and the conductive element is disposed in the connecting groove and is electrically connected to the first fastener and the second fastener.

[0014] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the outer peripheral wall of the connecting portion is formed into a stop, and the stop is concentrically arranged with the bearing cover.

[0015] According to some embodiments of the present invention, at least one of the two end faces of the connecting portion along the axial direction of the mounting hole is provided with an annular rib surrounding the mounting hole and a radial rib extending along the radial direction of the mounting hole, the annular rib and the radial rib being connected.

[0016] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the annular ribs are a plurality of ribs spaced apart along the radial direction of the mounting hole, and the radial ribs are a plurality of ribs spaced apart along the circumferential direction of the mounting hole.

[0017] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the support further includes a reinforcing portion, the reinforcing portion including a first plate and a second plate, one end of the first plate and one end of the second plate being connected to form a V-shape with the opening facing the axis of the mounting hole, one end of the first plate and the second plate along the axial direction of the mounting hole being connected to the outer peripheral wall of the second mounting portion, and the other end of the first plate and the second plate along the axial direction of the mounting hole being connected to the connecting portion and the first mounting portion and spaced apart along the circumferential direction of the connecting portion.

[0018] According to some embodiments of the present invention, at least a portion of the first mounting portion is located between the first plate and the second plate and is connected to the first plate and the second plate respectively by a first connecting rib.

[0019] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the reinforcing part further includes a third plate and a fourth plate, the third plate being located on the side of the first plate away from the second plate, and the fourth plate being located on the side of the second plate away from the first plate. Both ends of the third plate and the fourth plate along the axial direction of the mounting hole are respectively connected to the outer peripheral wall of the second mounting part and the connecting part.

[0020] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the reinforcing part further includes: a fifth plate, the fifth plate being located between the first plate and the second plate and connected to the first plate, the second plate and the first mounting part.

[0021] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the first mounting portion is a plurality of portions spaced apart along the circumferential direction of the mounting hole, the second mounting portion is a plurality of portions spaced apart along the circumferential direction of the mounting hole, the reinforcing portion is a plurality of portions corresponding to the second mounting portions, and each second mounting portion corresponds to one of the first mounting portions along the axial direction of the mounting hole.

[0022] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the number of first mounting portions is greater than the number of second mounting portions, and at least one first mounting portion is connected to a sixth plate, one end of the sixth plate being connected to the outer peripheral wall of the corresponding first mounting portion, and the other end being connected to the connecting portion and spaced apart from the first mounting portion.

[0023] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the reinforcing part has an electrical control mounting part for mounting the electrical control box.

[0024] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a motor assembly includes an end cover as described in any embodiment of the present invention; a motor, the motor being disposed on the end cover and connected to the first mounting portion, wherein a bearing of the rotor of the motor is disposed within the bearing cover.

[0025] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a motor assembly is provided with an end cover. A support body includes a connecting portion, a first mounting portion, and a second mounting portion. The connecting portion has a mounting hole penetrating the connecting portion in its thickness direction. The first mounting portion is disposed on the outer peripheral wall of the connecting portion. In the axial direction of the mounting hole, the second mounting portion is spaced apart from the connecting portion, allowing the motor to be assembled onto a household appliance via the end cover. Simultaneously, the mounting hole penetrating the connecting portion in its thickness direction allows a bearing cover to be located within the mounting hole, with its outer periphery embedded within the connecting portion. This achieves the installation and fixation of the motor rotor bearing, ensuring the reliable connection between the bearing cover and the support body during motor operation, preventing them from detaching, and improving the reliability of the motor assembly. Furthermore, by using a plastic support body and a metal bearing cover, the overall weight of the end cover is reduced while ensuring its reliability, thus lowering production costs.

[0026] A washing machine according to an embodiment of the present invention, and a motor assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0027] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a washing machine is provided with a motor assembly. The support body includes a connecting portion, a first mounting portion, and a second mounting portion. The connecting portion has a mounting hole penetrating the connecting portion in its thickness direction. The first mounting portion is disposed on the outer peripheral wall of the connecting portion. In the axial direction of the mounting hole, the second mounting portion is spaced apart from the connecting portion, allowing the motor to be mounted on the household appliance via an end cover. Simultaneously, by having a mounting hole penetrating the connecting portion in its thickness direction, a bearing cover is located within the mounting hole, and its outer periphery is embedded within the connecting portion. This achieves the installation and fixation of the motor rotor bearing, ensuring the reliable connection between the bearing cover and the support body during motor operation, preventing them from detaching, improving the reliability of the washing machine, and enhancing the user experience. Furthermore, by using a plastic support body and a metal bearing cover, the overall weight of the end cover is reduced while ensuring its reliability, thus lowering production costs.

[0028] Additional aspects and advantages of the invention will be set forth in part in the description which follows, and in part will be obvious from the description, or may be learned by practice of the invention. Attached Figure Description

[0029] The above and / or additional aspects and advantages of the present invention will become apparent and readily understood from the description of the embodiments taken in conjunction with the following drawings, in which:

[0030] Figure 1 This is a structural diagram of a motor assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention, wherein the electrical control box is not shown;

[0031] Figure 2 This is a structural diagram of the end cap according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0032] Figure 3This is a structural diagram of the support body according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0033] Figure 4 This is a structural diagram of the end cap from another perspective according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0034] Figure 5 This is a front view of the end cap according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0035] Figure 6 It is along Figure 5 Sectional view of line AA in the middle;

[0036] Figure 7 This is a structural diagram of the bearing cover according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0037] Figure 8 This is a structural diagram of the bearing cover from another perspective according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0038] Figure 9 This is a structural diagram of an end cap according to another embodiment of the present invention;

[0039] Figure 10 This is a structural diagram of a motor assembly according to another embodiment of the present invention, wherein the motor is not shown.

[0040] Figure label:

[0041] 1000, Motor assembly;

[0042] 100. End cap;

[0043] 1. Support body; 11. Connecting part; 111. Mounting hole; 112. Radial rib; 113. Annular rib; 114. Stop; 115. Connecting groove; 116. Second conductive hole; 12. First mounting part; 121. Fourth connecting rib; 122. Fifth connecting rib; 123. Connecting hole; 13. Second mounting part; 131. First fixing hole; 14. Reinforcing part; 141. First plate; 142. Second plate; 143. First connecting rib; 144. Third plate; 145. Fourth plate; 146. Second connecting rib; 147. Third connecting rib; 148. Fifth plate; 149. Electrical control mounting part; 15. Sixth plate;

[0044] 2. Bearing cover; 21. Body; 211. Opening; 212. Bearing chamber; 213. Embedded part; 2131. Protrusion; 2132. Through hole; 2133. First conductive hole; 22. Assembly hole;

[0045] 3. Second fastener;

[0046] 200. Electric motor; 201. Bearing;

[0047] 300. Electrical control box. Detailed Implementation

[0048] Embodiments of the present invention are described in detail below. Examples of these embodiments are shown in the accompanying drawings, wherein the same or similar reference numerals denote the same or similar elements or elements having the same or similar functions throughout. The embodiments described below with reference to the accompanying drawings are exemplary and are only used to explain the present invention, and should not be construed as limiting the present invention.

[0049] In the description of this invention, it should be understood that the terms "center," "longitudinal," "lateral," "length," "width," "thickness," "upper," "lower," "front," "rear," "left," "right," "vertical," "horizontal," "top," "bottom," "inner," "outer," "clockwise," "counterclockwise," "axial," "radial," and "circumferential," etc., indicating orientation or positional relationships, are based on the orientation or positional relationships shown in the accompanying drawings and are only for the convenience of describing the 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, and therefore should not be construed as a limitation of the invention. Furthermore, features defined with "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include one or more of that feature. In the description of this invention, unless otherwise stated, "a plurality of" means two or more.

[0050] 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; and they can refer to the internal connection of two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this invention based on the specific circumstances.

[0051] The end cap 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention is described below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0052] like Figures 1-4 As shown, an end cap 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a support body 1 and a bearing cap 2.

[0053] Specifically, the support 1 includes a connecting portion 11, a first mounting portion 12, and a second mounting portion 13. The first mounting portion 12 is disposed on the outer peripheral wall of the connecting portion 11, in the axial direction of the mounting hole 111 (e.g., ...). Figure 2(As shown in the first direction), the second mounting portion 13 is spaced apart from the connecting portion 11. Thus, the first mounting portion 12 is used to connect with the motor 200, and the second mounting portion 13 is used to connect with the household appliance. The motor 200 is assembled onto the household appliance through the end cover 100. Furthermore, the second mounting portion 13 and the connecting portion 11 are spaced apart in the axial direction of the mounting hole 111, so that the layout of the end cover 100 is reasonable, thereby avoiding interference between the end cover 100 and the motor 200 and the household appliance during assembly.

[0054] Furthermore, the first mounting part 12 has a connecting hole 123, the second mounting part 13 has a first fixing hole 131, the motor 200 has a second fixing hole, and the outer casing of the household appliance has a third fixing hole. The motor 200 is connected to the end cover 100 by passing through the connecting hole 123 and the second fixing hole by the second fastener 3, and the end cover 100 is connected to the household appliance by passing through the first fixing hole 131 and the third fixing hole by the third fastener, thereby realizing the connection between the motor 200 and the household appliance.

[0055] The support body 1 is made of plastic, and the bearing cover 2 is made of metal. The connecting part 11 has a mounting hole 111 that penetrates the connecting part 11 in the thickness direction. The bearing cover 2 is located within the mounting hole 111, and its outer periphery is embedded within the connecting part 11. It is understood that the bearing 201 of the rotor of the motor 200 is housed within the bearing cover 2 to achieve the installation and fixation of the rotor. Simultaneously, the outer periphery of the bearing cover 2 is embedded within the connecting part 11, thus connecting the bearing cover 2 and the support body 1 and ensuring the reliability of the connection between the bearing cover 2 and the support body 1 during motor 200 operation, preventing them from falling off and further improving the reliability of the end cover 100. Furthermore, the metal bearing cover 2 avoids the drawbacks of the large thermal expansion of plastic, preventing the outer ring of the bearing 201 from rotating during motor 200 operation, further improving the reliability of the end cover 100. Moreover, the plastic nature of the support body 1 reduces the overall weight of the end cover 100. Therefore, compared with the existing technology that typically uses aluminum alloy die casting and then precision machining to produce end caps, the end cap 100 of this application is lightweight while ensuring strength, and has low processing costs, thus reducing production costs.

[0056] Furthermore, the support body 1 and the bearing cover 2 are formed into a single piece through injection molding. Thus, while ensuring the connection between the support body 1 and the bearing cover 2, the injection molding process simplifies the process and eliminates assembly steps, thereby improving production efficiency and reducing costs. For example, the bearing cover 2 can be pre-placed in an injection mold for injection molding, so that the bearing cover 2 and the support body 1 are formed as an inlaid injection molded part.

[0057] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the end cap 100 includes a connecting portion 11, a first mounting portion 12, and a second mounting portion 13 via a support body 1. The connecting portion 11 has a mounting hole 111 extending through the connecting portion 11 in the thickness direction. The first mounting portion 12 is disposed on the outer peripheral wall of the connecting portion 11. In the axial direction of the mounting hole 111, the second mounting portion 13 is spaced apart from the connecting portion 11, so that the motor 200 can be assembled onto a household appliance via the end cap 100. Simultaneously, because the connecting portion 11 has a mounting hole 111 extending through the connecting portion 11 in the thickness direction, the bearing cover 2 is located within the mounting hole 111, and the outer periphery of the bearing cover 2 is embedded within the connecting portion 11. This achieves the installation and fixation of the bearing 201 of the rotor of the motor 200, and ensures the reliability of the connection between the bearing cover 2 and the support body 1 during motor 200 operation, preventing them from falling off. Furthermore, by using a plastic part for the support body 1 and a metal part for the bearing cover 2, the overall weight of the end cap 100 is reduced while ensuring the reliability of the end cap 100, thus lowering production costs.

[0058] In some embodiments of the present invention, such as Figures 5-8 As shown, the bearing cover 2 includes a body 21, which has a bearing chamber 212 and an opening 211 that are interconnected. The outer peripheral wall of the body 21 has an insert portion 213, which extends annularly along the circumference of the body 21 and is embedded within the connecting portion 11. This arrangement allows the bearing 201 of the motor 200's rotor to enter the bearing chamber 212 through the opening 211, thus facilitating the assembly of the end cover 100 and the motor 200. Simultaneously, the annular insert portion 213 embedded within the connecting portion 11 enhances the connection strength between the bearing cover 2 and the connecting portion 11, preventing separation of the insert portion 213 and the connecting portion 11 during motor 200 operation and improving the overall reliability of the end cover 100. Furthermore, the bearing 201 is clearance-fitted with the inner wall of the bearing chamber 212 to ensure the bearing 201 is securely fixed.

[0059] In some embodiments of the present invention, such as Figure 7 and Figure 8 As shown, a plurality of protrusions 2131 are provided on the outer peripheral wall of the insert portion 213, and the plurality of protrusions 2131 are spaced apart in the circumferential direction of the insert portion 213. Thus, by inserting the plurality of protrusions 2131 into the connecting portion 11, the connection strength between the insert portion 213 and the connecting portion 11 is further improved, and the overall structural strength of the end cap 100 is improved.

[0060] In some embodiments of the present invention, such as Figure 7 and Figure 8As shown, the insert portion 213 has a plurality of through holes 2132 spaced apart along the circumferential direction of the insert portion 213, and the plurality of through holes 2132 correspond one-to-one with the plurality of protrusions 2131 in the radial direction of the insert portion 213. Thus, the connection strength between the insert portion 213 and the connecting portion 11 is further improved by the plurality of through holes 2132, and the one-to-one correspondence between the plurality of through holes 2132 and the plurality of protrusions 2131 in the radial direction of the insert portion 213 ensures the structural strength of the insert portion 213. Simultaneously, during the process of forming the support body 1 and the bearing cover 2 into a single piece through injection molding, the injection molding material passes through the through holes 2132, further improving the connection strength between the support body 1 and the bearing cover 2.

[0061] In some embodiments of the present invention, such as Figures 6-8 As shown, the bottom wall of the body 21 opposite to the opening 211 has an assembly hole 22 that communicates with the bearing chamber 212. Therefore, during the process of the bearing 201 of the rotor of the motor 200 entering the bearing chamber 212 from the opening 211, the ejector pin first extends into the bearing chamber 212 from the assembly hole 22. The engagement between the ejector pin and the bearing 201 drives the bearing 201 into the bearing chamber 212, improving the assembly efficiency of the motor 200 and the end cover 100.

[0062] Furthermore, the diameter of the mounting hole 22 is smaller than the diameter of the opening 211, and the diameter of the outer peripheral wall of the bearing 201 is larger than the diameter of the mounting hole. Thus, this setting limits the bearing 201, preventing it from protruding from the mounting hole 22 and improving the reliability of the end cover 100.

[0063] In some embodiments of the present invention, the insert portion 213 is disposed at one end of the body 21 having the opening 211, or the insert portion 213 extends from one end of the body 21 in the axial direction to the other end. Thus, the connection between the body 21 and the connecting portion 11 is achieved through this arrangement. It is understood that, as Figure 6 As shown, when the insert 213 is provided at the end of the body 21 with the opening 211, the end of the body 21 with the opening 211 is inserted into the connecting part 11 through the insert 213. This reduces the intrusion of the mold into the bearing chamber 212 when the support 1 and the bearing cover 2 are formed into a single piece by injection molding, thereby ensuring the shape of the bearing chamber 212 and the fit between the bearing 201 and the bearing chamber 212. Alternatively, when the insert 213 extends from one end of the body 21 in the axial direction to the other end, the body 21 is inserted into the connecting part 11 through the insert 213, thereby ensuring the connection strength between the body 21 and the connecting part 11.

[0064] In some embodiments of the present invention, such as Figures 2-3 , Figure 7 and Figure 8As shown, the embedding part 213 has a first conductive hole 2133, the first mounting part 12 has a connecting hole 123, the connecting part 11 has a connecting groove 115, the connecting groove 115 extends along the radial direction of the mounting hole 111 to the mounting hole 111 and one of the connecting holes 123, the support body 1 also includes a first fastener, a second fastener 3 and a conductive element, the first fastener passes through the first conductive hole 2133 and is connected to the connecting part 11, the second fastener 3 passes through the connecting hole 123, and the conductive element is disposed in the connecting groove 115 and is electrically connected to the first fastener and the second fastener 3.

[0065] It is understandable that when the motor 200 is assembled to a household appliance via the end caps 100, there are two end caps 100, with the motor 200 located between them. The connection between the motor 200 and the two end caps 100 is achieved by two second fasteners 3 passing through the connecting holes 123 and the second fixing holes of the motor 200, respectively. The conductive components of both end caps 100 are located within the connecting grooves 115 and electrically connected to the first and second fasteners 3, making the two end caps 100 form an equipotential body, reducing the equivalent capacitance, decreasing the voltage difference, and effectively preventing noise and electrolytic corrosion. Simultaneously, the conductive components within the connecting grooves 115 limit their movement in the circumferential direction of the mounting holes 111, facilitating assembly during installation and ensuring accurate placement. Furthermore, when the support body 1 is made of plastic and the bearing cover 2 is made of metal, this arrangement reduces the voltage difference, effectively preventing corrosion of the bearing 201 located within the bearing cover 2 and improving reliability.

[0066] Furthermore, such as Figure 7 and Figure 8 As shown, there are two first conductive holes 2133, which are arranged opposite each other in the radial direction of the bearing cover 2, and the first fastener passes through one of the first conductive holes 2133. Thus, this arrangement facilitates the electrical connection between the connecting part 11 and the bearing cover 2 by passing the first fastener through either of the first conductive holes 2133, thereby improving the conversion efficiency.

[0067] Furthermore, a second conductive hole 116 is provided on the conductive groove, and the first fastener passes through the first conductive hole 2133 and the second conductive hole 116, thereby realizing the electrical connection between the connecting part 11 and the bearing cover 2.

[0068] In some embodiments of the present invention, such as Figures 1-4As shown, in the axial direction of the mounting hole 111, the support body 1 further includes a reinforcing part 14. The reinforcing part 14 includes a first plate 141 and a second plate 142. One end of the first plate 141 and one end of the second plate 142 are connected to form a V-shape with the opening facing the axis of the mounting hole 111. One end of the first plate 141 and the second plate 142 along the axial direction of the mounting hole 111 are both connected to the outer peripheral wall of the second mounting part 13. The other ends of the first plate 141 and the second plate 142 along the axial direction of the mounting hole 111 are both connected to the connecting part 11 and the first mounting part 12 and are spaced apart along the circumferential direction of the connecting part 11. Thus, the overall structural strength of the support body 1 is improved by the reinforcing part 14, thereby improving the overall structural strength and rigidity of the end cover 100, increasing the natural frequency of the end cover 100 and the motor 200, thereby improving vibration and noise, and enhancing the user experience.

[0069] Meanwhile, since the first mounting part 12 is used to connect with the motor 200 and the second mounting part 13 is used to connect with household appliances, the first plate 141 is connected to the second mounting part 13, the first mounting part 12, and the connecting part 11, and the second plate 142 is connected to the second mounting part 13, the first mounting part 12, and the connecting part 11. Therefore, when the second mounting part 13, the first mounting part 12, or the connecting part 11 is subjected to impact, the impact force is transmitted along the first plate 141 and the second plate 142, achieving force dispersion and reducing the occurrence of local stress concentration in the support body 1. For example, when the connecting part 11 is subjected to impact, the impact force is transmitted along the first plate 141 and the second plate 142 to the first mounting part 12 and the second mounting part 13, thereby reducing the occurrence of local stress concentration in the connecting part 11 that could lead to large deformation of the bearing chamber 212 and improving the reliability of the motor 200. In addition, by connecting one end of the first plate 141 and one end of the second plate 142 to form a V-shape with the opening facing the axis of the mounting hole 111, the cavity formed by the first plate 141, the second plate 142 and the connecting part 11 further improves the structural strength of the support body 1, and the cavity can be formed as a heat dissipation port to facilitate heat dissipation when the motor 200 is running, further improving the reliability of the end cover 100.

[0070] Furthermore, in the axial direction of the mounting hole 111, the second mounting part 13 is opposite to the first mounting part 12. Thus, this arrangement facilitates the connection of the first plate 141 and the second plate 142 to the first mounting part 12 and the second mounting part 13 respectively, thereby further improving the overall structural strength of the reinforcing part 14.

[0071] In some embodiments of the present invention, such as Figures 2-4As shown, at least a portion of the first mounting portion 12 is located between the first plate 141 and the second plate 142, and is connected to the first plate 141 and the second plate 142 by first connecting ribs 143. This arrangement improves the connection strength between the first mounting portion 12 and the first plate 141 and the second plate 142, further ensuring the transmission of impact force between the first mounting portion 12, the first plate 141, and the second plate 142, and improving the overall reliability of the end cap 100. Furthermore, there are multiple first connecting ribs 143, spaced apart along the axial direction of the mounting hole 111, thereby further strengthening the connection strength between the first mounting portion 12 and the first plate 141 and the second plate 142.

[0072] In some embodiments of the present invention, such as Figures 2-4 As shown, the reinforcing part 14 also includes a third plate 144 and a fourth plate 145. The third plate 144 is located on the side of the first plate 141 away from the second plate 142, and the fourth plate 145 is located on the side of the second plate 142 away from the first plate 141. Both ends of the third plate 144 and the fourth plate 145 along the axial direction of the mounting hole 111 are respectively connected to the outer peripheral wall of the second mounting part 13 and the connecting part 11. Thus, the connection reliability between the second mounting part 13 and the connecting part 11 is further strengthened by the third plate 144 and the fourth plate 145, improving the overall structural strength of the support body 1. At the same time, when the second mounting part 13 or the connecting part 11 receives an impact force, the connection of the third plate 144 and the fourth plate 145 to the outer peripheral wall of the second mounting part 13 and the connecting part 11 further disperses the impact force and avoids stress concentration.

[0073] In some embodiments of the present invention, such as Figures 2-4 As shown, the third plate 144 and the first plate 141 are connected to the same position of the connecting portion 11, the fourth plate 145 and the second plate 142 are connected to the same position of the connecting portion 11, and the first plate 141 and the second plate 142 are connected to the same position of the second mounting portion 13. The connection positions of the first plate 141, the third plate 144, and the fourth plate 145 with the second mounting portion 13 are spaced apart along the circumferential direction of the second mounting portion 13. This arrangement further enhances the connection strength between the reinforcing portion 14 and the first mounting portion 12, the second mounting portion 13, and the connecting portion 11, improving the overall structural strength of the end cap 100 and facilitating processing.

[0074] In some embodiments of the present invention, such as Figures 2-4As shown, a second connecting rib 146 connects the third plate 144 and the first plate 141. This arrangement improves the connection strength between the third plate 144 and the first plate 141, further ensuring the transmission of impact force between them and improving the overall reliability of the end cap 100. Furthermore, there are multiple second connecting ribs 146, spaced apart along the axial direction of the mounting hole 111, thereby further strengthening the connection strength between the third plate 144 and the first plate 141.

[0075] In some embodiments of the present invention, such as Figures 2-4 As shown, a third connecting rib 147 connects the fourth plate 145 and the second plate 142. This arrangement further enhances the connection strength between the fourth plate 145 and the second plate 142, ensuring the transmission of impact force between them and improving the overall reliability of the end cap 100. Furthermore, there are multiple third connecting ribs 147, spaced apart along the axial direction of the mounting hole 111, thereby further strengthening the connection strength between the fourth plate 145 and the second plate 142.

[0076] In some embodiments of the present invention, such as Figures 2-4 As shown, the reinforcing part 14 also includes a fifth plate 148. The fifth plate 148 is located between the first plate 141 and the second plate 142 and is connected to the first plate 141, the second plate 142, and the first mounting part 12. Thus, the fifth plate 148 increases the connection strength between the first plate 141, the second plate 142, and the first mounting part 12, thereby improving the overall structural strength of the support body 1.

[0077] In some embodiments of the present invention, a plurality of first mounting portions 12 are spaced apart along the circumferential direction of the mounting holes 111, a plurality of second mounting portions 13 are spaced apart along the circumferential direction of the mounting holes 111, and a plurality of reinforcing portions 14 are corresponding to the second mounting portions 13. Along the axial direction of the mounting holes 111, each second mounting portion 13 corresponds to one of the first mounting portions 12. Thus, by connecting the motor 200 with the plurality of first mounting portions 12 and connecting the household appliance with the plurality of second mounting portions 13, the connection reliability between the end cover 100 and the motor 200, and between the end cover 100 and the household appliance, is improved, thereby improving the connection reliability between the motor 200 and the household appliance.

[0078] For example, there are two first mounting parts 12, two second mounting parts 13, and two reinforcing parts 14 corresponding one-to-one with the two second mounting parts 13. In the axial direction of the mounting hole 111, one of the second mounting parts 13 is opposite to one of the first mounting parts 12. One end of the first plate 141 and the second plate 142 of one of the reinforcing parts 14 along the axial direction of the mounting hole 111 are connected to the outer peripheral wall of one of the second mounting parts 13, and the other end of the first plate 141 and the second plate 142 along the axial direction of the mounting hole 111 are connected to the outer peripheral wall of one of the second mounting parts 13. The connecting portion 11 is connected to one of the first mounting portions 12 and spaced apart along the circumferential direction of the connecting portion 11; another second mounting portion 13 is opposite to the other first mounting portion 12; one end of the first plate 141 and the second plate 142 of the other reinforcing portion 14 along the axial direction of the mounting hole 111 are both connected to the outer peripheral wall of the other second mounting portion 13, and the other ends of the first plate 141 and the second plate 142 along the axial direction of the mounting hole 111 are both connected to the connecting portion 11 and the other first mounting portion 12 and spaced apart along the circumferential direction of the connecting portion 11.

[0079] In some embodiments of the present invention, such as Figures 2-4 As shown, the number of first mounting parts 12 is greater than the number of second mounting parts 13. At least one first mounting part 12 is connected to a sixth plate 15. One end of the sixth plate 15 is connected to the outer peripheral wall of the corresponding first mounting part 12, and the other end is connected to the connecting part 11 and spaced apart from the first mounting part 12.

[0080] Therefore, by connecting multiple first mounting parts 12 to the motor 200 and multiple second mounting parts 13 to the household appliance, the connection reliability between the end cover 100 and the motor 200, and between the end cover 100 and the household appliance, is improved, thereby improving the connection reliability between the motor 200 and the household appliance. Simultaneously, the sixth plate 15 further strengthens the connection between the first mounting parts 12 and the connecting parts 11, further dispersing the impact force on the first mounting parts 12 or the connecting parts 11 and avoiding stress concentration. Furthermore, by connecting one end of the sixth plate 15 to the outer peripheral wall of the first mounting part 12 and the other end to the connecting part 11 and spaced apart from the first mounting part 12, a cavity is formed by the sixth plate 15, the first mounting part 12, and the connecting part 11, further improving the structural strength of the support body 1.

[0081] For example, such as Figures 2-4As shown, there are three first mounting portions 12 and two second mounting portions 13. In the axial direction of the mounting hole 111, the first second mounting portion 13 is opposite to the first first mounting portion 12. One end of the first plate 141 and the second plate 142 of the first reinforcing portion 14 along the axial direction of the mounting hole 111 are both connected to the outer peripheral wall of the first second mounting portion 13, and the other end of the first plate 141 and the second plate 142 along the axial direction of the mounting hole 111 are both connected to the connecting portion 11 and the first first mounting portion 12 and spaced apart along the circumferential direction of the connecting portion 11. The second second mounting portion 13 is opposite to the second first mounting portion 12. One end of the first plate 141 and the second plate 142 of the two reinforcing parts 14 along the axial direction of the mounting hole 111 is connected to the outer peripheral wall of the second second mounting part 13, and the other end of the first plate 141 and the second plate 142 along the axial direction of the mounting hole 111 are connected to the connecting part 11 and the second first mounting part 12 and spaced apart along the circumferential direction of the connecting part 11; a sixth plate 15 is provided for each of the third second mounting parts 13 along the circumferential direction of the mounting hole 111, one end of the sixth plate 15 is connected to the outer peripheral wall of the third first mounting part 12, and the other end is connected to the connecting part 11 and spaced apart from the third first mounting part 12. At the same time, the three first mounting parts 12 can better fix the motor 200.

[0082] Furthermore, there are two sixth plates 15 spaced apart along the circumferential direction of the mounting holes 111. One sixth plate 15 is connected to the third plate 144 of the first reinforcing plate at the same position of the connecting part 11, and the other sixth plate 15 is connected to the fourth plate 145 of the second reinforcing plate at the same position of the connecting part 11. This arrangement further enhances the connection strength between the first mounting part 12, the reinforcing part 14, and the connecting part 11, improves the overall structural strength of the end cap 100, and facilitates processing.

[0083] In some embodiments of the present invention, such as Figures 2-4 As shown, at least one of the two end faces of the first mounting portion 12 along the axial direction of the mounting hole 111 has a fourth connecting rib 121. The fourth connecting rib 121 extends radially along the mounting hole 111, and one end of the fourth connecting rib 121 near the mounting hole 111 extends to the connecting portion 11. Thus, the fourth connecting rib 121 ensures the connection strength between the first mounting portion 12 and the reinforcing portion 14, improving the reliability of the support 1. Simultaneously, the extension of the fourth connecting rib 121 from one end near the mounting hole 111 to the connecting portion 11 further ensures the transmission of impact force between the first mounting portion 12 and the connecting portion 11, reducing local stress concentration. Furthermore, the presence of the fourth connecting rib 121 on both end faces of the first mounting portion 12 along the axial direction of the mounting hole 111 further enhances the structural strength of the end cap 100.

[0084] In some embodiments of the present invention, such as Figures 2-4 As shown, multiple fourth connecting ribs 121 are spaced apart along the circumferential direction of the mounting hole 111, and a fifth connecting rib 122 is provided between two adjacent fourth connecting ribs 121. Thus, the structural strength of the first mounting portion 12 and the connecting portion 11 is further improved by the multiple fourth connecting ribs 121, thereby increasing the overall structural strength of the end cap 100. Furthermore, multiple fifth connecting ribs 122 are spaced apart along the axial direction of the mounting hole, thereby further improving the structural strength of the first mounting portion 12 and the connecting portion 11.

[0085] In some embodiments of the present invention, such as Figures 2-4 As shown, at least one of the two end faces of the connecting portion 11 along the axial direction of the mounting hole 111 is provided with an annular rib 113 surrounding the mounting hole 111 and a radial rib 112 extending in the radial direction of the mounting hole 111, and the annular rib 113 and the radial rib 112 are connected. Thus, the annular rib 113 and the radial rib 112 further strengthen the structural strength of the connecting portion 11, thereby strengthening the connection strength between the bearing cover 2 and the connecting portion 11, ensuring the connection reliability between the bearing cover 2 and the support body 1 during motor 200 operation, and thus improving the overall reliability of the end cover 100. Furthermore, the connecting portion 11 is provided with an annular rib 113 surrounding the mounting hole 111 and a radial rib 112 extending in the radial direction of the mounting hole 111 on both end faces along the axial direction of the mounting hole 111, further improving the structural strength of the end cover 100.

[0086] In some embodiments of the present invention, such as Figures 2-4 As shown, the annular ribs 113 are spaced apart radially along the mounting hole 111, and the radial ribs 112 are spaced apart circumferentially along the mounting hole 111. Thus, the impact force borne by the connecting portion 11 is dispersed by the multiple annular ribs 113 and the multiple radial ribs 112, further improving the structural strength of the end cap 100.

[0087] In some embodiments of the present invention, as shown in the figures, the outer peripheral wall of the connecting portion 11 forms a stop 114, which is concentrically arranged with the bearing cover 2. It is understood that the diameter of the inner peripheral wall of the stator of the motor 200 is larger than the diameter of the outer peripheral wall of the connecting portion 11. The stator is fitted over the stop 114, thereby further connecting the motor 200 and the end cover 100 through the cooperation between the stator and the stop 114. Simultaneously, the bearing 201 of the rotor of the motor 200 is located inside the bearing cover 2 and has a clearance fit with the inner wall of the bearing cover 2. The concentric arrangement of the stop 114 with the bearing cover 2 ensures that the stator of the motor 200 mounted on the end cover 100 is concentric with the bearing 201, thereby preventing friction between the stator and rotor during motor 200 operation and improving the reliability of the motor assembly 1000 using this end cover 100.

[0088] Specifically, since the first mounting part 12 is located on the outer peripheral wall of the connecting part 11, when there is only one first mounting part 12, the stop 114 is divided into two sections by one mounting part; for example Figures 2-4 As shown, when there are three first mounting parts 12, the stop 114 is divided into three sections by the three mounting parts.

[0089] In some embodiments of the present invention, such as Figure 9 and Figure 10 As shown, the reinforcing part 14 has an electrical control mounting part 149 for mounting the electrical control box 300. This arrangement enables the connection between the electrical control box 300 and the end cover 100 to meet different requirements for the end cover 100. Specifically, when the number of first mounting parts 12 and the number of second mounting parts 13 are the same, the number of reinforcing parts 14 is the same as the number of second mounting parts 13, and each reinforcing part 14 has an electrical control mounting part 149 for mounting the electrical control box 300, thereby enabling the connection between the electrical control box 300 and the end cover 100. Alternatively, when the number of first mounting parts 12 is greater than the number of second mounting parts 13, a sixth plate 15 is provided for each first mounting part 12 that does not correspond to the second mounting part 13, along the circumferential direction of the mounting hole 111. The number of reinforcing parts 14 is the same as the number of second mounting parts 13. Each reinforcing part 14 has an electrical control mounting part 149 for mounting the electrical control box 300, and the sixth plate 15 has an electrical control mounting part 149 for mounting the electrical control box 300, further ensuring the connection between the electrical control box 300 and the end cover 100.

[0090] The motor assembly 1000 according to an embodiment of the present invention is described below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0091] According to one embodiment of the present invention, a motor assembly 1000 includes an end cover 100 and a motor 200 as described in any of the above embodiments. The motor 200 is mounted on the end cover 100 and connected to a first mounting portion 12, and the bearing 201 of the rotor of the motor 200 is disposed within a bearing cover 2. This arrangement enables the connection between the motor 200 and the end cover 100, improving the reliability of the motor assembly 1000.

[0092] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a motor assembly 1000 is provided with an end cover 100. A support body 1 includes a connecting portion 11, a first mounting portion 12, and a second mounting portion 13. The connecting portion 11 has a mounting hole 111 extending through the connecting portion 11 in its thickness direction. The first mounting portion 12 is disposed on the outer peripheral wall of the connecting portion 11. The second mounting portion 13 is spaced apart from the connecting portion 11 in the axial direction of the mounting hole 111, allowing the motor 200 to be mounted on a household appliance via the end cover 100. Simultaneously, the mounting hole 111 extending through the connecting portion 11 in its thickness direction allows the bearing cover 2 to be located within the mounting hole 111, with its outer periphery embedded within the connecting portion 11. This enables the installation and fixation of the bearing 201 of the motor 200's rotor, ensuring reliable connection between the bearing cover 2 and the support body 1 during motor 200 operation, preventing them from detaching, and improving the reliability of the motor assembly 1000. By using a plastic support 1 and a metal bearing cover 2, the overall weight of the end cover 100 is reduced while ensuring its reliability, thus lowering production costs.

[0093] A washing machine according to an embodiment of the present invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0094] A washing machine according to one embodiment of the present invention includes the motor assembly 1000 described in any of the above embodiments.

[0095] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a motor assembly 1000 is provided with a motor end cover 100 and a support body 1 including a connecting portion 11, a first mounting portion 12, and a second mounting portion 13. The connecting portion 11 has a mounting hole 111 that penetrates the connecting portion 11 in the thickness direction. The first mounting portion 12 is disposed on the outer peripheral wall of the connecting portion 11. In the axial direction of the mounting hole 111, the second mounting portion 13 is spaced apart from the connecting portion 11, so that the motor 200 is assembled onto a household appliance through the end cover 100. Simultaneously, the bearing cover 2 is located within the mounting hole 111, with its outer periphery embedded within the connecting portion 11, through the mounting hole 111 penetrating the connecting portion 11 in the thickness direction. This allows for the installation and fixation of the bearing 201 of the motor 200's rotor, ensuring reliable connection between the bearing cover 2 and the support body 1 during motor 200 operation, preventing them from detaching, improving the reliability of the washing machine, and enhancing the user experience. By using a plastic support 1 and a metal bearing cover 2, the overall weight of the end cover 100 is reduced while ensuring its reliability, thus lowering production costs.

[0096] In the description of this specification, the references to terms such as "one embodiment," "some embodiments," "illustrative embodiment," "example," "specific example," or "some examples," etc., indicate that a specific feature, structure, material, or characteristic described in connection with that embodiment or example is included in at least one embodiment or example of the invention. In this specification, the illustrative expressions of the above terms do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment or example. Furthermore, the specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments or examples.

[0097] Although embodiments of the invention have been shown and described, those skilled in the art will understand that various changes, modifications, substitutions and alterations can be made to these embodiments without departing from the principles and spirit of the invention, the scope of which is defined by the claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. An end cap, characterized in that, include: A support body, which is a plastic part, includes a connecting part, a first mounting part, and a second mounting part. The connecting part has a mounting hole that penetrates the connecting part in the thickness direction. The first mounting part is disposed on the outer peripheral wall of the connecting part. In the axial direction of the mounting hole, the second mounting part is spaced apart from the connecting part. A bearing cover, which is a metal part, is located in the mounting hole and its outer periphery is embedded in the connecting part; The support body further includes a reinforcing part, which includes a first plate and a second plate. One end of the first plate and one end of the second plate are connected to form a V-shape with the opening facing the axis of the mounting hole. One end of the first plate and the second plate along the axial direction of the mounting hole are connected to the outer peripheral wall of the second mounting part. The other end of the first plate and the second plate along the axial direction of the mounting hole are connected to the connecting part and the first mounting part and spaced apart along the circumferential direction of the connecting part.

2. The end cap according to claim 1, characterized in that, The bearing cover includes a body having a bearing chamber and an opening that are interconnected. The outer peripheral wall of the body has an embedded portion that extends in a ring shape along the circumference of the body and is embedded in the connecting portion.

3. The end cap according to claim 2, characterized in that, The outer peripheral wall of the embedded part has a plurality of protrusions, which are spaced apart in the circumferential direction of the embedded part.

4. The end cap according to claim 3, characterized in that, The embedding portion has a plurality of through holes spaced apart along the circumferential direction of the embedding portion, and the plurality of through holes correspond one-to-one with the plurality of protrusions in the radial direction of the embedding portion.

5. The end cap according to claim 2, characterized in that, The bottom wall of the body opposite the opening has an assembly hole that communicates with the bearing chamber.

6. The end cap according to claim 2, characterized in that, The embedding part is disposed at one end of the body having the opening, or the embedding part extends from one end of the body in the axial direction to the other end.

7. The end cap according to claim 2, characterized in that, The embedded part has a first conductive hole, the first mounting part has a connecting hole, the connecting part has a connecting groove, the connecting groove extends radially along the mounting hole to the mounting hole and one of the connecting holes, the support body further includes a first fastener, a second fastener and a conductive element, the first fastener passes through the first conductive hole and is connected to the connecting part, the second fastener passes through the connecting hole, and the conductive element is disposed in the connecting groove and is electrically connected to the first fastener and the second fastener.

8. The end cap according to claim 1, characterized in that, The outer peripheral wall of the connecting part forms a stop, and the stop is concentrically arranged with the bearing cover.

9. The end cap according to claim 1, characterized in that, At least one of the two end faces of the connecting portion along the axial direction of the mounting hole is provided with an annular rib surrounding the mounting hole and a radial rib extending along the radial direction of the mounting hole, and the annular rib and the radial rib are connected.

10. The end cap according to claim 9, characterized in that, The annular ribs are a plurality of ribs spaced apart along the radial direction of the mounting hole, and the radial ribs are a plurality of ribs spaced apart along the circumferential direction of the mounting hole.

11. The end cap according to claim 1, characterized in that, At least a portion of the first mounting part is located between the first plate and the second plate and is connected to the first plate and the second plate respectively by a first connecting rib.

12. The end cap according to claim 1, characterized in that, The reinforcing part further includes a third plate and a fourth plate. The third plate is located on the side of the first plate away from the second plate, and the fourth plate is located on the side of the second plate away from the first plate. Both ends of the third plate and the fourth plate along the axial direction of the mounting hole are respectively connected to the outer peripheral wall of the second mounting part and the connecting part.

13. The end cap according to claim 1, characterized in that, The reinforcing part also includes: The fifth plate is located between the first plate and the second plate and is connected to the first plate, the second plate and the first mounting part.

14. The end cap according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first mounting portion consists of a plurality of portions spaced apart along the circumferential direction of the mounting hole, the second mounting portion consists of a plurality of portions spaced apart along the circumferential direction of the mounting hole, and the reinforcing portion consists of a plurality of portions corresponding to the second mounting portions. Along the axial direction of the mounting hole, each second mounting portion corresponds to one of the first mounting portions.

15. The end cap according to claim 14, characterized in that, The number of the first mounting parts is greater than the number of the second mounting parts, and at least one of the first mounting parts is connected to a sixth plate. One end of the sixth plate is connected to the outer peripheral wall of the corresponding first mounting part, and the other end is connected to the connecting part and spaced apart from the first mounting part.

16. The end cap according to claim 1, characterized in that, The reinforcing part has an electrical control mounting part for mounting the electrical control box.

17. A motor assembly, characterized in that, include: End cap according to any one of claims 1-16; An electric motor is mounted on the end cover and connected to the first mounting part, and the bearing of the rotor of the electric motor is located inside the bearing cover.

18. A washing machine, characterized in that, Includes the motor assembly as claimed in claim 17; The housing contains the motor assembly, and the housing is connected to the second mounting portion.

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