A self-cleaning food processor

Abstract

The application relates to the field of food processors, and discloses a self-cleaning food processor which comprises a main machine, a processing cup assembly, a liquid discharge valve and a water tank, the processing cup assembly is provided with a processing cavity for slurry preparation, the processing cavity is provided with a slurry discharge port, the liquid discharge valve is provided with a liquid discharge channel, the liquid discharge channel is provided with a liquid inlet and a liquid outlet, the liquid inlet is communicated with the slurry discharge port, the liquid discharge valve comprises a valve core arranged in the liquid discharge channel and a driving device for driving the valve core to translate relative to the liquid discharge channel, the liquid discharge channel is further provided with a water inlet connected with the water tank, and the driving device can drive the valve core to move to a first communication position and a second communication position; at the first communication position, the liquid inlet can be communicated with the liquid outlet; and at the second communication position, the water inlet is communicated with the liquid outlet. The food processor provided by the application can flush the liquid discharge channel, ensures the cleanliness of the liquid discharge channel, and improves the use experience of users.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of food processing machines, and more specifically to a self-cleaning food processing machine. Background Technology

[0002] To reduce the hassle of cleaning food processing machines for users, existing machines generally have a self-cleaning function. This involves injecting water into the processing chamber, and after cleaning, the wastewater is discharged through a drain valve, completing the cleaning process. The drain valve typically functions as both a slurry drain and a wastewater drain. However, existing food processing machines generally lack a dedicated drain channel for cleaning this valve. Since the slurry is quite viscous, residue easily adheres to the walls of the drain channel due to surface tension. After cleaning, some residue may dry and clump, further adhering to the walls and making cleaning more difficult. Furthermore, the wastewater drains downwards solely by gravity, resulting in a weak water flow and limited cleaning power. Therefore, using wastewater to flush the drain channel is insufficient for thorough cleaning. Over time, food residue can mold and spoil within the drain channel, producing unpleasant odors. This contaminates newly produced slurry during subsequent discharges, leading to a poor user experience. Chinese utility model patent with patent number CN201720936700.0 and title "A Soymilk Maker" discloses a reversing rotary valve. The valve core of the reversing rotary valve is provided with an inlet that is connected to the water supply component, and the water supply component can enter the grinding cup through the valve core during rotation. However, this reversing valve enables water intake and slurry discharge, but it cannot be directly cleaned or cleaned, especially the valve core, which is difficult to clean thoroughly. Similar to patent CN201720936700.0, and patents CN202121255021.X (titled "An Integrated Food Processor") and CN202121372461.3 (titled "A Food Processor"), Chinese utility model patents disclose a water valve device with a translating valve core. By setting an inlet, it achieves closing, drainage, and water intake functions, but it also suffers from the problem of not being able to directly clean or clean the valve, especially the valve core, which is difficult to clean thoroughly. Furthermore, another Chinese utility model patent, CN202020298753.6 (titled "Valve Body Device and Food Processing Machine"), discloses a valve body device... For solutions where the cup assembly can be detached, after pulping is complete, the user can manually disassemble the valve core and valve body for cleaning. However, this structure is complex, and the disassembly and installation of the valve core and valve body are very troublesome. The valve core and valve body are also prone to improper installation and pulp leakage from the drain valve. In addition, our company's Chinese invention patent application, patent number 202110279843.X, entitled "A Food Processing Machine with Self-Cleaning Drain Valve," discloses a drain valve with a first input port and a second input port respectively connected to the pulping chamber and the supply system. The liquid passage is located in the valve core or the drain pipe below the valve core. By rotating the valve core, the liquid passage can be connected to either the first input port or the second input port, so as to perform liquid drainage or self-cleaning of the liquid passage. The rotary valve structure is a commonly used drain valve structure at present. Summary of the Invention

[0003] In order to solve one or more technical problems in the prior art, or at least provide a beneficial alternative, the present invention provides a self-cleaning food processing machine that can flush the drain channel to ensure the cleanliness of the drain channel and improve the user experience.

[0004] This invention provides a self-cleaning food processing machine, including a main unit, a processing cup assembly, a drain valve, and a water tank. The processing cup assembly has a processing chamber for pulping, and the processing chamber has a pulp discharge port. The drain valve has a drain channel with an inlet and an outlet. The inlet is connected to the pulp discharge port. The drain valve includes a valve core disposed in the drain channel and a driving device for driving the valve core to translate relative to the drain channel. The drain channel also has a water inlet connected to the water tank. The driving device can drive the valve core to move to a first connection position and a second connection position. In the first connection position, the inlet can communicate with the outlet. In the second connection position, the inlet is connected to the outlet.

[0005] In this application's technical solution, the drain valve includes a drain channel and a valve core disposed within the drain channel. By adjusting the position of the valve core within the drain channel, the drain channel is switched from a blocked state to a connected state. Unlike existing technologies where the drain channel is set within the valve core, in this solution, the valve core is located within the drain channel and can move relative to it. The movement of the valve core changes the opening and closing of the inlet, outlet, and water inlet, thereby enabling draining and cleaning of the drain channel. The drain channel has two connected states. When the valve core moves to the first connected position, the inlet connects with the outlet, thus enabling the discharge of slurry or cleaning wastewater. When the valve core moves to the second connected position, the water inlet connects with the outlet, allowing cleaning water to flow from the inlet into the drain channel and exit from the outlet, thereby flushing the drain channel. This food processing machine solution allows for separate rinsing of the drainage channel after cleaning the processing chamber. This reduces residue that may adhere to the inner wall of the channel, or it can be rinsed separately before draining the slurry. This cleans the drainage channel exposed to the outside, preventing dust and other contaminants from polluting the newly prepared slurry and improving the user experience. In existing technologies, water is typically supplied under pressure using a water pump. Compared to methods that repeatedly add water to the processing chamber to flush the drainage channel, the water flow from the processing chamber has a relatively weak impact. This solution uses a water tank to apply high-pressure water to the drainage channel. Furthermore, the inlet diameter is generally small, which also contributes to the pressurized water supply. The resulting water flow has a stronger impact, greater cleaning power, and better cleaning effect. Moreover, only a small amount of water is needed to clean the drainage channel, thus saving water.

[0006] In a preferred embodiment of a self-cleaning food processing machine, the valve core is provided with a water supply channel. In the first connection position, the water supply channel is offset and isolated from the liquid inlet. In the second connection position, the water supply channel can connect the liquid inlet and the liquid outlet.

[0007] By setting a water supply channel in the valve core, in the first connection position, the water supply channel is offset and isolated from the inlet, making it difficult for slurry at the inlet to enter the water supply channel, thus preventing contamination or blockage and ensuring the cleanliness of the inlet channel. In the second connection position, one end of the water supply channel connects to the inlet, and the other end connects to the outlet. The cleaning water flows along the water supply channel instead of directly entering the drain channel, using the water supply channel to change the impact direction of the water flow. On the one hand, it guides the water flow towards one side wall of the drain channel. Since the cleaning wastewater cannot fill the entire drain channel, some side walls of the drain channel cannot be rinsed, but some splashed residue remains in these areas. Guiding the water flow to these areas allows for targeted rinsing, and after the water flow disperses at that area, the remaining side walls can also be effectively cleaned. On the other hand, when there is a deviation in direction between the outlet and the inlet of the drain channel, the water supply channel can change the direction of the water flow, guiding the water flow towards the outlet.

[0008] In a preferred embodiment of a self-cleaning food processor, the food processor further includes a liquid receiving cup located below a drain valve, the drain valve further includes a valve nozzle extending above the liquid receiving cup, a portion of the drain channel is located at the valve nozzle, and the water supply channel is inclined relative to the radial direction of the valve core so that the outlet of the water supply channel faces one side wall of the valve nozzle.

[0009] A receiving cup is installed below the drain valve to collect slurry or cleaning wastewater. The receiving valve has a nozzle extending above the receiving cup, which compensates for the longitudinal gap between the drain valve body and the receiving cup, preventing cleaning water from splashing onto the work surface when the slurry flows down. In the second connection position, one end of the water supply channel is connected to the inlet, and the other end is connected to the inlet of the nozzle, allowing for direct, individual cleaning of the nozzle. Because the water supply channel is inclined relative to the radial direction of the valve core, at the inlet of the nozzle, the water flow impacts one side wall of the nozzle. Under the impact force, the water flow disperses, thus thoroughly cleaning the inner wall of the nozzle and preventing the problem of some parts of the inner wall of the nozzle not being cleaned when the water flows straight down.

[0010] In a preferred embodiment of a self-cleaning food processing machine, the drain valve further includes a valve housing and a drain pipe built into the valve housing. The drain pipe has at least a partial drain channel, and the valve core is coaxially arranged with the drain pipe, and the valve core can move relative to the drain pipe.

[0011] The drain valve includes a valve housing, which secures the drain valve structure to the slurry outlet and supports the installation of other valve body structures. A drain pipe forms a partial drain channel within the valve housing. The valve core and drain pipe are coaxially aligned, allowing the valve core to move relative to the slurry outlet axially. This movement ensures high reliability and facilitates sealing, preventing leakage.

[0012] In a preferred embodiment of a self-cleaning food processor, the food processor further includes a liquid receiving cup located below the liquid drain valve, the liquid drain valve further includes a valve nozzle extending above the liquid receiving cup, a portion of the liquid drain channel is located at the valve nozzle, and the valve nozzle and the liquid drain pipe are an integral structure.

[0013] A valve nozzle facilitates drainage into the receiving cup, preventing liquid splashing. By integrating the valve nozzle and drainage pipe into a single unit, the structure is simple, reliable, and highly efficient. No sealing structure is needed at the connection between the valve nozzle and drainage pipe to achieve a leak-proof effect.

[0014] In a preferred embodiment of a self-cleaning food processing machine, the drain valve is provided with a detection device for detecting the position of the valve core. The detection device includes a trigger element located on either the valve core or the valve housing, and a sensing element located on the other.

[0015] By setting up a detection device to detect the position of the valve core, the valve core is precisely positioned to control its movement in the drainage channel. The detection device includes a trigger and a sensor. When the valve core moves to a certain connection position, the sensor receives a trigger signal from the trigger and transmits it to the control board of the main unit, thereby controlling the drive device to stop the movement of the valve core.

[0016] In a preferred embodiment of a self-cleaning food processing machine, the trigger is a magnet disposed on the valve core, and the sensing element is a plurality of magnetic sensing elements disposed on the valve housing. The magnetic sensing elements correspond to each connected position respectively, and the magnet moves relative to the valve core relative to the valve housing to each connected position so as to trigger the magnetic sensing elements.

[0017] By moving a magnet mounted on the valve core to different magnetic sensing elements, the magnetic sensing elements are triggered to send position signals to the host to determine the valve core's position. The magnets and magnetic sensing elements are small in size, easy to install, consume little power, and have high sensing accuracy, enabling precise positioning of the valve core.

[0018] In a preferred embodiment of a self-cleaning food processing machine, the triggering element is a trigger rod disposed on the valve core, and the sensing element is a plurality of inductive switches disposed on the valve housing. The inductive switches correspond to each connected position, and the trigger rod moves relative to the valve core to each connected position to trigger the inductive switch.

[0019] By incorporating a trigger rod on the outer wall of the valve core, the trigger rod moves with the valve core to the connection position, pushing the inductive switch to close and sending a position signal to the host to determine the valve core's position. The trigger rod can be integrally molded with the valve core, reducing the number of parts, improving assembly efficiency, and ensuring a reliable structure with good triggering stability.

[0020] In a preferred embodiment of a self-cleaning food processing machine, the drive device can also drive the valve core to move to the sealing position, where the valve core can seal the liquid inlet, liquid outlet, and water inlet.

[0021] The valve core also includes a blocking position. When the valve core moves to the blocking position, it can block the entire drainage channel to close the processing chamber for pulping.

[0022] In a preferred embodiment of a self-cleaning food processing machine, the drive device includes a drive motor and a lead screw connected to the drive motor. The valve core is provided with a threaded hole that mates with the lead screw. The drive motor drives the lead screw to rotate, thereby causing the valve core to translate relative to the drainage channel.

[0023] The drive motor and lead screw are connected to convert the rotational motion of the motor into the horizontal movement of the valve core, thereby moving the valve core to different positions relative to the drain channel. Attached Figure Description

[0024] The accompanying drawings, which are included to provide a further understanding of the invention and form part of this invention, illustrate exemplary embodiments of the invention and are used to explain the invention, but do not constitute an undue limitation of the invention. In the drawings:

[0025] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a food processing machine according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0026] Figure 2 This is a cross-sectional view of a food processing machine according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0027] Figure 3 for Figure 2 Magnification at point A Figure 1 .

[0028] Figure 4 for Figure 3 A schematic diagram of the valve core in the first connected position.

[0029] Figure 5 for Figure 3 Schematic diagram of the middle valve core in the second communication position. Figure 1 .

[0030] Figure 6 for Figure 3 Schematic diagram of the middle valve core in the second communication position. Figure 2 .

[0031] Figure 7 for Figure 3 A schematic diagram showing the valve core in the inlet position.

[0032] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the drain valve in one embodiment of the present invention.

[0033] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a drain valve with a detection device in one embodiment of the present invention. Figure 1 .

[0034] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a drain valve with a detection device in one embodiment of the present invention. Figure 2 .

[0035] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures:

[0036] 1-Host;

[0037] 2-Processing cup assembly; 21-Processing chamber; 22-Discharge port;

[0038] 3-Drain valve; 31-Drain channel; 311-Inlet; 312-Outlet; 313-Water inlet; 32-Valve core; 321-Water supply channel; 322-Threaded hole; 33-Drive device; 331-Drive motor; 332-Screw; 34-Valve housing; 35-Drain pipe; 351-First sealing rib; 352-Second sealing rib; 36-Valve nozzle; 37-Detection device; 371-Trigger element; 3711-Magnet; 3712-Trigger rod; 372-Sensing element; 3721-Magnetic induction element; 3722-Inductive switch;

[0039] 4-Water tank;

[0040] 5-Liquid cup. Detailed Implementation

[0041] To more clearly illustrate the overall concept of the present invention, a detailed description will be provided below with reference to the accompanying drawings and examples.

[0042] It should be noted that many specific details are set forth in the following description in order to provide a full understanding of the present invention. However, the present invention may also be implemented in other ways different from those described herein. Therefore, the scope of protection of the present invention is not limited to the specific embodiments disclosed below.

[0043] Furthermore, in the description of this invention, it should be understood that the terms "center," "upper," "lower," "front," "rear," "left," "right," "vertical," "horizontal," "top," "bottom," "inner," "outer," "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. For example, in this invention, the side of the food processor facing the user is defined as "front" or "front side," and the opposite side is defined as "rear" or "rear side." This is based on the usage state of the food processor, which is known to those skilled in the art.

[0044] In this invention, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," "linking," and "fixing," etc., should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral unit; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; they can refer to the internal communication of two components or the interaction between two components. However, specifying a direct connection indicates that the two connected entities do not establish a connection relationship through a transitional structure, but are connected solely by a connecting structure to form a whole. For those skilled in the art, the specific meaning of the above terms in this invention can be understood according to the specific circumstances.

[0045] In this invention, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, the first feature "on" or "below" the second feature may be in direct contact with the first and second features, or indirect contact through an intermediate medium. In the description of this specification, references to terms such as "one embodiment," "some embodiments," "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.

[0046] First, the technical concept of the technical solution disclosed in this invention will be explained. Existing food processing machines cannot separately clean the drain channel of the drain valve, resulting in difficulty in removing residue from the drain channel. This invention proposes a solution that allows for separate water supply cleaning of the drain channel. The drain valve of this application includes a drain channel and a valve core disposed in the drain channel. The drain channel has a water inlet connected to a water tank. By adjusting the position of the valve core in the drain channel, the drain channel can be switched from a blocked state to a connected state, achieving cleaning of the drain channel while simultaneously draining. The valve core has at least two connected positions. When the valve core moves to the first connected position, the inlet can connect with the outlet, thereby realizing the function of draining slurry or cleaning wastewater. When the valve core moves to the second connected position, the inlet can connect with the outlet, and cleaning water flows from the inlet to the drain channel and is discharged from the outlet, thereby rinsing the drain channel. The food processing machine of this solution can separately flush the drainage channel after slurry discharge or after cleaning the processing chamber to reduce residue that may adhere to the inner wall of the channel, or separately flush the drainage channel before slurry discharge to clean the drainage channel exposed to the outside, avoiding possible contamination of the newly made slurry by dust and other contaminants, thus improving the user experience.

[0047] The specific solution adopted is as follows:

[0048] This invention provides a self-cleaning food processing machine, such as... Figures 1-6 As shown, the food processing machine includes a main unit 1, a processing cup assembly 2, a drain valve 3, and a water tank 4. The processing cup assembly 2 includes a cup body and a cup lid, which together form a processing chamber 21 for pulping. The processing chamber 21 has a pulp discharge port 22, and a drain valve 3 is arranged adjacent to one side of the pulp discharge port 22. The drain valve 3 has a drain channel 31, which has an inlet 311 and an outlet 312. The inlet 311 is connected to the pulp discharge port 22. The drain valve 3 includes a valve core 32 disposed in the drain channel 31 and a drive device 33 for driving the valve core 32 to translate relative to the drain channel 31. The drain channel 31 is also equipped with a water inlet 313 connected to the water tank 4. The water inlet 313 and the water tank 4 are connected by a water pipe and a water pump. A silicone water inlet nozzle is installed at the water inlet 313. The water inlet nozzle is closed when not in use. The water pump pressurizes the water inlet, and the water flow can open the water inlet nozzle to supply water into the drain channel 31. The drive device 33 can drive the valve core 32 to move to the first connection position and the second connection position. In the first connection position, the inlet 311 can communicate with the outlet 312 to allow the liquid in the processing chamber 21 to flow out. In the second connection position, the inlet 313 communicates with the outlet 312 to clean the drain channel 31.

[0049] In one implementation, such as Figures 2-3As shown, the drive device 33 can also drive the valve core 32 to move to the blocking position. In the blocking position, the valve core 32 can close the liquid inlet 311, the liquid outlet 312, and the water inlet 313. When the valve core 32 moves to the blocking position, the valve core 32 can block the entire drainage channel 31 to close the processing chamber 21 for pulping.

[0050] In one implementation, such as Figure 2 , Figure 7 As shown, the drive device 33 can also drive the valve core 32 to move to the water inlet position. At the water inlet position, the water inlet 313 and the liquid inlet 311 are connected to allow water to enter the processing chamber 21 for cleaning.

[0051] The technical solution of this application features a translational drain valve 3 structure, which is simple and reliable. The drain valve 3 includes a drain channel 31 and a valve core 32 disposed within the drain channel 31. By adjusting the position of the valve core 32 within the drain channel 31, the drain channel 31 can be switched from a blocked state to a connected state. When the valve core 32 moves to the first connected position, the inlet 311 connects with the outlet 312, thereby achieving the function of draining slurry or cleaning wastewater. When the valve core 32 moves to the second connected position, the inlet 313 connects with the outlet 312, and cleaning water flows from the inlet 313 into the drain channel 31 and is discharged from the outlet 312, thus flushing the drain channel 31. This food processing machine can separately rinse the drain channel 31 after cleaning the processing chamber 21, reducing residue that may adhere to the inner wall of the channel. Alternatively, it can rinse the drain channel 31 separately before draining the slurry, cleaning the exposed drain channel 31 and preventing dust or other contaminants from polluting the newly prepared slurry, thus improving the user experience. In existing technologies, water is typically supplied under pressure using a water pump. Compared to methods that repeatedly add water to the processing chamber 21 to flush the drain channel 31, this solution utilizes the impact force of a pressurized water flow, resulting in stronger cleaning power and better cleaning effect, as the water flow from the processing chamber 21 has a relatively small impact force. Furthermore, only a small amount of water is needed to clean the drain channel 31, saving water.

[0052] like Figures 2-8As shown, the drain valve 3 includes a valve housing 34, a drain pipe 35 built into the valve housing 34, and a valve core 32 built into the drain pipe 35. At least a portion of the drain channel 31 is located in the drain pipe 35, and the inlet of the drain pipe 35 is a liquid inlet 311. The valve core 32 is coaxially arranged with the drain pipe 35 and can move relative to it along the drain pipe 35. The drain pipe 35 is a horizontally arranged pipe with openings at both ends. The valve core 32 extends into the drain pipe 35 from the front opening and moves horizontally within the drain pipe 35. The drain valve 3 structure is fixed to the slurry outlet 22 by the valve housing 34, which is also used to install and support other valve body structures. The valve core 32 and the drain pipe 35 are coaxially arranged, and the valve core 32 moves relative to each other in the axial direction, resulting in high reliability of movement and facilitating sealing to prevent leakage.

[0053] like Figures 1-4 As shown, in one embodiment, the food processing machine further includes a receiving cup 5 located below the drain valve 3. The drain valve 3 also includes a valve nozzle 36 extending above the receiving cup 5. A portion of the drain channel 31 is located within the valve nozzle 36, and the drain pipe 35 and the inner cavity of the valve nozzle 36 together form the drain channel 31. The inlet of the drain pipe 35 is a liquid inlet 311, and the outlet of the valve nozzle 36 is a liquid outlet 312. The receiving cup 5 is located below the drain valve 3 to collect slurry or cleaning wastewater. The valve nozzle 36 extending above the receiving cup 5 compensates for the longitudinal distance between the valve body of the drain valve 3 and the receiving cup 5, preventing slurry from splashing onto the work surface due to impact when it is left behind.

[0054] Furthermore, such as Figure 4 As shown, the inner wall of the drain pipe 35 is provided with sealing ribs, which are arranged in a circumferential manner to form multiple sealing ring ribs in the radial direction. The sealing ribs include a first sealing rib 351 and a second sealing rib 352. The first sealing rib 351 is located at the inlet 311 of the drain channel 31 to seal the gap between the valve core 32 and the inner wall of the drain pipe 35 when in the closed position, so as to prevent slurry from entering the drain channel 31 along the gap. The second sealing rib 352 is located on the inner wall of the drain pipe 35 on the front side relative to the inlet of the valve nozzle 36. Preferably, it is located adjacent to the inlet of the valve nozzle 36 to prevent liquid from entering the gap between the valve core 32 and the inner wall of the drain pipe 35 when it flows outward along the valve nozzle 36. Of course, it can be understood that the sealing ribs may also include a third sealing rib. The third sealing rib is located at another opening of the drain pipe 35 relative to the inlet 311 to close the gap between the drain pipe 35 and the inner cavity of the valve housing 34, so as to prevent the possible entry of slurry into the inner cavity of the valve housing 34.

[0055] like Figures 2-7As shown, the valve core 32 is provided with a water supply channel 321. In the first connection position, the water supply channel 321 is offset and isolated from the liquid inlet 311. In the second connection position, the water supply channel 321 can connect the water inlet 313 and the liquid outlet 312. In one embodiment, the water supply channel 321 is vertically or inclined along the radial direction of the valve core 32. One end of the water supply channel 321 is connected to the water inlet 313, and the other end is connected to the inlet of the valve nozzle 36 and can be connected to the liquid outlet 312, thereby flushing the valve nozzle 36; or, in one embodiment, the water supply channel 321 is bent inside the valve core 32, combined with Figure 6 As shown, for example, the water supply channel 321 is V-shaped, the inlet 313 is located at the valve nozzle, the inlet of the water supply channel 321 is connected to the inlet 313, the outlet of the water supply channel 321 faces the upper side wall of the drain channel 31, the water flow rushes to the upper side wall and then spreads out, washing the entire drain channel 31.

[0056] Those skilled in the art will understand that, in addition to directly providing the water supply channel 321 on the valve core 32, in one embodiment of this application, the water supply channel 321 may also be provided as needed to be formed by different components, such as the valve core 32 forming the water supply channel 321 by a fitting gap with at least one of the valve housing 34 or the drain pipe 35.

[0057] By setting a water supply channel 321 in the valve core 32, in the second connection position, one end of the water supply channel 321 is connected to the inlet 313 and the other end is connected to the outlet 312. The cleaning water flows along the water supply channel 321 instead of directly entering the drain channel 31. The water supply channel 321 changes the impact direction of the water flow. On the one hand, it guides the water flow toward one side wall of the drain channel 31. Since the cleaning wastewater is difficult to fill the entire drain channel 31, some side walls of the drain channel 31 cannot be rinsed. Some splashed residue remains in this area. The water flow is guided to this part of the side wall for targeted rinsing. After the water flow spreads out at this side wall, the remaining side walls can also be effectively cleaned. On the other hand, when there is a deviation in direction between the outlet 312 and the inlet 313 of the drain channel 31, the water supply channel 321 changes the impact direction of the water flow, which can guide the water flow toward the outlet 312.

[0058] Preferably, the water supply channel 321 is inclined relative to the radial direction of the valve core 32 so that the outlet of the water supply channel 321 faces one side wall of the valve nozzle 36. In the second connection position, one end of the water supply channel 321 is connected to the inlet 313, and the other end is connected to the inlet of the valve nozzle 36. In one embodiment, in order to shorten the flow distance of the slurry in the drain valve 3, the upper end of the valve nozzle 36 is positioned closer to the slurry discharge port 22, and the valve nozzle 36 is inclined towards the front. Since the cleaning wastewater is difficult to fill the entire valve nozzle 36, the slurry residue splashed on the front side wall of the valve nozzle 36 is difficult to clean. In one embodiment, such as Figure 7 As shown, the water supply channel 321 is inclined forward in the radial direction relative to the valve core 32. At the inlet of the valve nozzle 36, the water flow rushes towards the front side wall of the valve nozzle 36. Under the impact force, the water flow spreads out, thereby thoroughly cleaning the inner side wall of the valve nozzle 36 and avoiding the problem that some parts of the inner side wall of the valve nozzle 36 cannot be cleaned when the water flows straight down.

[0059] Furthermore, regarding the installation method of the valve nozzle 36 within the drain valve 3, the valve nozzle 36 can be located on the valve housing 34 or the drain pipe 35. When the valve nozzle 36 and the valve housing 34 are an integral structure, the installation between the drain pipe 35 and the valve housing 34 is convenient. Preferably, as follows... Figures 2-8 As shown, the valve nozzle 36 and the drain pipe 35 are an integral structure. The valve housing 34 has a through hole for the valve nozzle 36 to pass through. The valve nozzle 36 facilitates drainage into the receiving cup 5, preventing liquid splashing. By integrating the valve nozzle 36 and the drain pipe 35, the structure is simple, reliable, and has a high assembly efficiency. No sealing structure is needed at the connection between the valve nozzle 36 and the drain pipe 35 to achieve a leak-proof effect.

[0060] like Figure 2 , Figures 9-10 As shown, in one embodiment, the drain valve 3 is equipped with a detection device 37 for detecting the position of the valve core 32. The detection device 37 includes a trigger 371 disposed on either the valve core 32 or the valve housing 34, and a sensor 372 disposed on the other. The detection positions include a first connecting position and a second connecting position. It is understood that it may also include a closed position or a water inlet position. It is understood that some detection positions can also be positioned by a limiting structure. For example, in the closed position, a baffle is provided at the front end of the valve core 32. When the baffle abuts against the front port of the drain pipe 35, the valve core 32 can completely block the drain channel 31. The valve core 32 cannot continue to move backward, the drive motor 331 experiences a stall current increase, and transmits a signal to the host 1 to control the drive motor 331 to stop rotating.

[0061] The position of the valve core 32 is detected by the detection device 37, and the valve core 32 is precisely positioned to control its movement in the drainage channel 31. The detection device 37 includes a trigger 371 and a sensor 372. When the valve core 32 moves to a certain connection position, the sensor 372 receives the trigger signal from the trigger 371 and transmits it to the control board of the host 1, thereby controlling the drive device 33 to stop the movement of the valve core 32.

[0062] like Figure 2 , Figure 9 As shown, the trigger 371 is a magnet 3711 disposed on the valve core 32, and the sensing element 372 is a plurality of magnetic sensing elements 3721 disposed on the valve housing 34. The magnetic sensing elements 3721 can be Hall elements. In one embodiment, three magnetic sensing elements 3721 are provided along the axial direction, from back to front. Each magnetic sensing element 3721 corresponds to the water inlet position, the second connection position, and the first connection position, respectively. The magnet 3711 moves relative to the valve core 32 with respect to the valve housing 34 to each connection position to trigger the magnetic sensing element 3721.

[0063] The magnet 3711, mounted on the valve core 32, moves to different magnetic sensing elements 3721, triggering the magnetic sensing elements 3721 to send position signals to the host 1 to determine the position of the valve core 32. The magnet 3711 and the magnetic sensing elements 3721 are small in size, easy to install, consume little power, and have high sensing accuracy, enabling precise positioning of the valve core 32.

[0064] like Figure 2 , Figure 10 As shown, in one embodiment, the trigger 371 is a trigger rod 3712 disposed on the valve core 32, and the sensing element 372 is a plurality of sensing switches 3722 disposed on the valve housing 34. The sensing switches 3722 can be microswitches, with the sensing ends of the microswitches facing the valve core 32. In one embodiment, three sensing switches 3722 are provided along the axial direction, from back to front. Each sensing switch 3722 corresponds to the water inlet position, the second connection position, and the first connection position, respectively. The trigger rod 3712 moves relative to the valve core 32 to each connection position to trigger the sensing switch 3722.

[0065] By providing a trigger rod 3712 on the outer wall of the valve core 32, the trigger rod 3712 moves with the valve core 32 to the communication position and pushes the inductive switch 3722 to close, thereby sending a position signal to the host 1 to determine the position of the valve core 32. The trigger rod 3712 can be integrally formed with the valve core 32, reducing the number of parts, improving assembly efficiency, and providing a reliable structure with good triggering stability.

[0066] like Figure 2 , Figure 3 , Figure 8 As shown, the drive device 33 includes a drive motor 331 and a lead screw 332 connected to the drive motor 331. The valve core 32 has a threaded hole 322 that mates with the lead screw 332. The drive motor 331 drives the lead screw 332 to rotate, thereby causing the valve core 32 to translate relative to the drainage channel 31. The output end of the drive motor 331 is positioned towards the valve core 32, and the lead screw 332 is connected to the output end. The transmission connection between the drive motor 331 and the lead screw 332 converts the rotational motion of the motor into the horizontal movement of the valve core 32, thereby moving the valve core 32 to different positions relative to the drainage channel 31.

[0067] The process of using a food processing machine is as follows:

[0068] When the machine is off, the valve core 32 is in the closed position, closing the liquid inlet 311, the liquid outlet 312, and the water inlet 313.

[0069] After startup, firstly, valve core 32 moves forward to the second connection position, and water pump pressurizes and supplies water to simply flush the drain channel 31; then, valve core 32 retracts backward to the closed position, closing the processing chamber 21 for pulping; after pulping, it enters the slurry discharge state, valve core 32 moves forward to the first connection position, connecting the inlet 311 and the outlet 312, so that the slurry flows out along the drain channel 31; after slurry discharge, valve core 32 moves forward to the second connection position to clean the drain channel 31, preventing residue from drying and clumping in the drain channel 31, then valve core 32 moves to the water inlet position to introduce cleaning water into the processing chamber 21. After the processing chamber 21 is cleaned, valve core 32 is moved back to the second connection position to flush the drain channel 31 separately.

[0070] The technical solutions protected by this invention are not limited to the above embodiments. It should be noted that any combination of the technical solutions of any embodiment with one or more other embodiments is within the protection scope of this invention. Although the invention has been described in detail above with general descriptions and specific embodiments, some modifications or improvements can be made to it, which will be obvious to those skilled in the art. Therefore, all such modifications or improvements made without departing from the spirit of this invention are within the scope of protection claimed by this invention.

Claims

1. A self-cleaning food processing machine, comprising a main unit, a processing cup assembly, a drain valve, and a water tank, wherein the processing cup assembly has a pulping processing chamber, the processing chamber has a pulp discharge port, the drain valve has a drain channel, the drain channel has an inlet and an outlet, the inlet communicating with the pulp discharge port, characterized in that, The drain valve includes a valve core disposed in the drain channel and a drive device for driving the valve core to translate relative to the drain channel. The drain channel is also provided with a water inlet connected to the water tank. The drive device can drive the valve core to move to a first connecting position and a second connecting position. In the first connecting position, the water inlet can communicate with the water outlet. In the second connecting position, the water inlet is communicated with the water outlet. The valve core is provided with a water supply channel. In the first connecting position, the water supply channel is offset and isolated from the water inlet. In the second connecting position, the water supply channel can communicate with the water inlet and the water outlet. The food processing machine also includes a liquid receiving cup located below the drain valve, and the drain valve also includes a valve nozzle extending above the liquid receiving cup. Part of the drain channel is located at the valve nozzle, and the water supply channel is inclined relative to the radial direction of the valve core so that the outlet of the water supply channel faces one side wall of the valve nozzle.

2. The self-cleaning food processing machine according to claim 1, characterized in that, The drain valve also includes a valve housing and a drain pipe built into the valve housing. The drain pipe has at least a portion of the drain channel. The valve core is coaxially arranged with the drain pipe and can move relative to the drain pipe.

3. The self-cleaning food processing machine according to claim 2, characterized in that, The food processing machine also includes a liquid receiving cup located below the liquid drain valve. The liquid drain valve also includes a valve nozzle extending above the liquid receiving cup. Part of the liquid drain channel is located at the valve nozzle. The valve nozzle and the liquid drain pipe are an integral structure.

4. A self-cleaning food processing machine according to claim 2, characterized in that, The drain valve is equipped with a detection device for detecting the position of the valve core. The detection device includes a trigger element located on either the valve core or the valve body, and a sensing element located on the other.

5. A self-cleaning food processing machine according to claim 4, characterized in that, The trigger is a magnet disposed on the valve core, and the sensing element is a plurality of magnetic sensing elements disposed on the valve housing. The magnetic sensing elements correspond to each communication position respectively. The magnet moves relative to the valve core relative to the valve housing to each communication position so as to trigger the magnetic sensing elements.

6. A self-cleaning food processing machine according to claim 4, characterized in that, The triggering element is a trigger rod disposed on the valve core, and the sensing element is a plurality of sensing switches disposed on the valve housing. The sensing switches correspond to each communication position respectively, and the trigger rod moves relative to the valve core to each communication position to trigger the sensing switch.

7. A self-cleaning food processing machine according to claim 1, characterized in that, The driving device can also drive the valve core to move to the blocking position, where the valve core can close the liquid inlet, liquid outlet and water inlet.

8. A self-cleaning food processing machine according to claim 1, characterized in that, The driving device includes a drive motor and a lead screw connected to the drive motor. The valve core is provided with a threaded hole that mates with the lead screw. The drive motor drives the lead screw to rotate so as to move the valve core relative to the drain channel.

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