Washing machine and control method thereof

Abstract

The application discloses a washing machine and a control method thereof. The filter is arranged in the accommodating groove and below the end cover. The filter forms a filter groove. Water in the end cover can be introduced into the filter groove and filtered through the filter groove. The filtered water is introduced into the accommodating groove and discharged from the accommodating groove. The cleaning brush is at least partially arranged in the filter groove. The cleaning brush is in contact with the inner wall of the filter groove and can rotate around the rotating shaft in the filter groove. The top of the cleaning brush is provided with a pushing part. The water in the end cover impacts the pushing part during the introduction into the filter groove, so that the pushing part pushes the cleaning brush to rotate, so that the cleaning brush brushes the inner wall of the filter groove through rotation. Therefore, during the water entering the filter groove, the water flow impacts the pushing part to push the cleaning brush to rotate and brush the filter groove, so that the filter can be well cleaned to prevent the filter from being blocked, and the normal drainage of the washing machine is ensured.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of household appliance technology, and in particular to a washing machine and its control method. Background Technology

[0002] Washing machines, as a common household appliance, are widely used in households. The wastewater discharged from washing machines generally contains a significant amount of microplastics and other impurities. These microplastics are non-biodegradable and difficult to filter and separate. Although separated by municipal wastewater treatment systems, more than half still enters rivers and oceans, ultimately entering the human body through the food chain and harming human health.

[0003] Currently, filtration devices are typically installed to filter impurities such as microfibers. However, existing washing machines are prone to clogging, resulting in poor filtration and ineffective drainage, which affects the normal operation of the washing machine. Summary of the Invention

[0004] This application provides a washing machine and its control method, which can achieve a good cleaning effect on the filter element to prevent filter element blockage and ensure normal drainage of the washing machine.

[0005] The first aspect of this application provides a washing machine, comprising: a housing having a receiving groove; an end cap disposed at the opening of the receiving groove, the end cap having a water inlet for allowing water to be filtered to enter the end cap; a filter element disposed within the receiving groove and located below the end cap, the filter element having a filter groove, water in the end cap being able to be introduced into the filter groove and filtered through the filter groove, water passing through the filter groove being introduced into the receiving groove and discharged from the receiving groove; and a cleaning brush, at least partially disposed within the filter groove, the cleaning brush contacting the inner wall of the filter groove, the cleaning brush being able to rotate around its axis within the filter groove; wherein, the top of the cleaning brush is provided with a pushing part, water in the end cap impacting the pushing part during the process of being introduced into the filter groove, causing the pushing part to drive the cleaning brush to rotate, so that the cleaning brush scrubs the inner wall of the filter groove by rotating.

[0006] In some specific embodiments, the washing machine includes a water distribution component located at the bottom of the end cover. The water distribution component has a water distribution groove, and the bottom wall of the water distribution groove has a water outlet. Water in the end cover is introduced into the water distribution groove and discharged from the water outlet. The water discharged from the water outlet is used to impact the propulsion part to make the cleaning brush rotate.

[0007] In some specific embodiments, the water distribution component is provided with a water guiding part, which is located below the water distribution port. The water guiding part is used to guide the water discharged from the water distribution port to the propulsion part, so that the cleaning part drives the cleaning brush to rotate.

[0008] In some specific embodiments, the bottom wall of the water divider is provided with a first annular wall protruding downwards, and the water guide is provided on the outer wall of the first annular wall and located directly below the water divider. The water guide extends along the axial and circumferential directions of the first annular wall in an arc shape. The water guide is used to guide the water discharged from the water divider downwards along the circumference of the first annular wall.

[0009] In some specific embodiments, the top of the cleaning brush is provided with a second annular wall, which is arranged around the first annular wall at intervals. The water guiding part is attached to the inner sidewall of the second annular wall so that the first annular wall, the second annular wall and the water guiding part form a guide groove. The propulsion part is provided on the inner sidewall of the second annular wall and located below the guide groove. The guide groove receives water discharged from the water outlet to impact the propulsion part on one side in a clockwise or counterclockwise direction.

[0010] In some specific embodiments, the propulsion unit includes an arc-shaped section, the inner arc of which faces the outlet of the guide channel in a clockwise or counterclockwise direction, the outlet of which directs water to the inner arc, so that the propulsion unit drives the cleaning brush to rotate.

[0011] In some specific embodiments, there are multiple water guiding parts and multiple propulsion parts. Multiple water guiding parts are arranged at intervals in the circumferential direction of the first annular wall, and multiple propulsion parts are arranged at intervals in the circumferential direction of the second annular wall. The water guided by the multiple water guiding parts impacts the multiple propulsion parts on the same side in the clockwise or counterclockwise direction.

[0012] In some specific embodiments, the cleaning brush includes a rotating shaft, a second annular wall surrounding the rotating shaft, a first annular wall forming a first rotating groove, the top end of the rotating shaft being rotatably disposed in the first rotating groove, and the two ends of the propulsion part being connected to the second annular wall and the rotating shaft respectively.

[0013] In some specific embodiments, the bottom protrusion of the filter tank is provided with a mounting part, the bottom of the rotating shaft is provided with a second rotating groove, the mounting part is disposed in the second rotating groove, and the rotating shaft can rotate relative to the mounting part.

[0014] A second aspect of this application provides a washing machine control method. The control method is based on the washing machine described in any of the above claims. The method includes: obtaining the drainage time of the washing machine; when the drainage time is greater than a first preset time, controlling the washing machine to generate a reminder message to clean the filter immediately; when the drainage time is greater than a second preset time and less than the first preset time, controlling the washing machine to generate a reminder message to the user to clean the filter after the next wash cycle.

[0015] This application has at least the following beneficial effects: Based on the washing machine and control method provided in this application, the filter element is disposed in the receiving groove and located below the end cover. The filter element forms a filter groove, and water in the end cover can be introduced into the filter groove and filtered through the filter groove. Water passing through the filter groove is introduced into the receiving groove and discharged from the receiving groove. The cleaning brush is at least partially disposed in the filter groove, and the cleaning brush is in contact with the inner wall of the filter groove. The cleaning brush can rotate around its axis in the filter groove. The top of the cleaning brush is provided with a pushing part. When water in the end cover is introduced into the filter groove, it impacts the pushing part, causing the pushing part to drive the cleaning brush to rotate, so that the cleaning brush washes the inner wall of the filter groove by rotating. Therefore, when water enters the filter groove, the water flow impacts the pushing part, driving the cleaning brush to rotate and wash the filter groove, which can achieve a good cleaning effect on the filter element and prevent the filter element from clogging, thus ensuring normal drainage of the washing machine. Attached Figure Description

[0016] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this application or the prior art, the drawings used in the embodiments will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of this application. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0017] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an embodiment of the filtering device provided in this application;

[0018] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the filter device provided in this application after removing the back cover;

[0019] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the structure of the back cover;

[0020] Figure 4 yes Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the shell structure in the middle;

[0021] Figure 5 yes Figure 4 The top view of the casing shown;

[0022] Figure 6 yes Figure 5 The shell shown is a cross-sectional view along section line AA;

[0023] Figure 7 yes Figure 2 Top view of the structure shown;

[0024] Figure 8 yes Figure 7 The structure shown is a cross-sectional view along section line BB;

[0025] Figure 9 yes Figure 8 A schematic diagram of the cross-sectional structure shown from another perspective;

[0026] Figure 10 yes Figure 7 A schematic diagram of the end cap structure;

[0027] Figure 11 yes Figure 10 The end cap shown is a cross-sectional view along section line CC.

[0028] Figure 12 This is a structural diagram of the structure located at the receiving groove;

[0029] Figure 13 yes Figure 12 An exploded view of the structure shown.

[0030] Figure 14 yes Figure 12 A cross-sectional view of the structure shown;

[0031] Figure 15 yes Figure 13 A schematic diagram of the cleaning components in the diagram;

[0032] Figure 16 yes Figure 15 The cleaning component shown is a cross-sectional view along section line DD.

[0033] Figure 17 yes Figure 13 A schematic diagram of the filter element from another perspective;

[0034] Figure 18 yes Figure 13 An exploded view of the structure of the end cap, the first sealing ring, and the second sealing ring;

[0035] Figure 19 This is a schematic diagram of another embodiment of the filtering device provided in this application;

[0036] Figure 20 yes Figure 19 Top view of the structure shown;

[0037] Figure 21 yes Figure 20 The structure shown is a cross-sectional view along section line EE.

[0038] Figure 22 yes Figure 19 An exploded view of the structure shown.

[0039] Figure 23 yes Figure 22 A schematic diagram of the cleaning brush in the diagram;

[0040] Figure 24 yes Figure 23 A top view of the cleaning brush in the picture;

[0041] Figure 25 yes Figure 24 A cross-sectional view of the cleaning brush along section line FF;

[0042] Figure 26 yes Figure 22 A top view of the water distribution component in the middle;

[0043] Figure 27 yes Figure 26 A schematic diagram of the water distribution component from another perspective;

[0044] Figure 28 This is a structural diagram of the water distribution component and the cleaning brush in their combined state;

[0045] Figure 29 yes Figure 28 A cross-sectional view of the structure shown;

[0046] Figure 30 yes Figure 29 An enlarged structural diagram of region A in the diagram;

[0047] Figure 31 yes Figure 22 A cross-sectional view of the cleaning brush in the picture;

[0048] Figure 32 yes Figure 31 An enlarged structural diagram of region B in the diagram;

[0049] Figure 33 This is a schematic diagram of another embodiment of the filtering device provided in this application;

[0050] Figure 34 yes Figure 33 A cross-sectional view of the structure shown;

[0051] Figure 35 yes Figure 33 An exploded view of the structure shown.

[0052] Figure 36 This is a schematic diagram of the overflow ring and end cap in their combined state;

[0053] Figure 37 yes Figure 36 The structure shown is a cross-sectional view along section line GG.

[0054] Figure 38 yes Figure 37 A magnified schematic diagram of the structure of region C in the diagram;

[0055] Figure 39This is a cross-sectional view of the filter device installed inside the housing;

[0056] Figure 40 yes Figure 39 A magnified schematic diagram of the structure of region D in the diagram;

[0057] Figure 41 yes Figure 35 A schematic diagram of the overflow ring structure;

[0058] Figure 42 yes Figure 41 A top view of the overflow ring in the middle;

[0059] Figure 43 yes Figure 42 A cross-sectional view of the overflow ring in the middle;

[0060] Figure 44 This is a top view of the warning device mounted on the housing;

[0061] Figure 45 yes Figure 44 The structure shown is a cross-sectional view along section line II;

[0062] Figure 46 yes Figure 45 A magnified structural diagram of region E in the diagram;

[0063] Figure 47 yes Figure 44 A schematic diagram of the structure of an embodiment of the warning component;

[0064] Figure 48 yes Figure 47 A top view of the warning component shown;

[0065] Figure 49 yes Figure 48 The structure shown is a cross-sectional view along section line JJ.

[0066] Figure 50 This is a flowchart illustrating an embodiment of the washing machine control method provided in this application.

[0067] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached drawings: Filter device 10, Housing 11, Receiving groove 111, Storage groove 112, Inlet pipe 121, Outlet pipe 122, Rear cover 13, Storage hook 131, End cover 14, Lifting part 141, Inlet 142, Water guide groove 143, First annular part 144, Second annular part 145, First annular groove 146, Second annular groove 147, First outlet 148, Second outlet 149, Filter element 15, Filter tank 151, Filter frame 152, Filter screen 153, Second connecting post 154, Mounting part 155, First filter element 156, Second filter element 157, Cleaning element 16, Water guide hole 161, Cleaning bottom wall 162, Cleaning side wall 163, Cleaning groove 164, First connecting post 165, Water guide cavity 17, Elastic element 18, Telescopic 19. Cylinder 21. Water inlet trough 22. Water inlet hole 22. First sealing ring 231. Second sealing ring 232. Cleaning brush 24. Propulsion part 241. Arc-shaped section 2411. Vertical section 2412. Second annular wall 242. Rotating shaft 243. Second rotating groove 2431. Water distribution component 25. Water distribution trough 251. Water outlet 252. Bottom wall of water distribution component 253. First annular wall 254. Guide groove 255. Water guiding part 256. First rotating groove 257. Overflow ring 26. Third annular groove 261. Cylindrical part 262. Third annular part 263. Arc-shaped filter trough 264. Overflow cavity 27. Warning component 28. Outer cylinder 281. Mounting through hole 2811. Warning post 282. Base 283. Water guiding hole 2831. Mounting groove 29. Connecting hole 31. Observation window 32. Detailed Implementation

[0068] The present application will be further described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings and embodiments. The following embodiments are for illustrative purposes only and do not limit the scope of the application. The following embodiments are only some embodiments of the present application, not all embodiments. All other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of the present application. The technical means described in the following embodiments can be combined with each other without conflict, and other embodiments constituted are all within the scope of protection of the present application.

[0069] The terms “first,” “second,” “third,” “fourth,” etc. (if present) in the specification, claims, and accompanying drawings of this application are used to distinguish similar objects and are not necessarily used to describe a specific order or sequence. The terms “comprising” and “having,” and any variations thereof, are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion; for example, a process, method, system, product, or apparatus that comprises a series of steps or units is not necessarily limited to those steps or units explicitly listed, but may include other steps or units not explicitly listed or inherent to such process, method, product, or apparatus.

[0070] This application provides a washing machine, wherein the filter device 10 is part of the washing machine. Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of the filtering device 10 provided in this application. Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the filter device 10 provided in this application after removing the rear cover 13. Figure 3 yes Figure 1 A structural diagram of the back cover 13 in the middle. Figure 4 yes Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the structure of the shell 11 in the middle. Figure 5 yes Figure 4 The top view of the housing 11 shown is shown. Figure 6 yes Figure 5 The shown is a cross-sectional view of the housing 11 along section line AA.

[0071] Combination Figures 1-6 The filter device 10 includes a housing 11 with a receiving groove 111. The opening of the receiving groove 111 is located at the top of the housing 11. The receiving groove 111 is used to house the main components of the filter device 10 and to receive water to be filtered from the outside, thereby achieving the filtration of external water. The water to be filtered can be water discharged from the drain pipe of a washing machine. In this case, the filter device 10 is part of the washing machine, but it can be installed independently of the main body of the washing machine, for example, by hanging it next to the washing machine's casing.

[0072] The housing 11 is equipped with an inlet pipe 121 and an outlet pipe 122, both of which are connected to a receiving tank 111. The inlet pipe 121 is used to connect to an external structure to guide external water to be filtered into the receiving tank 111. Alternatively, the inlet pipe 121 can be connected to the washing machine's drain pipe. After being filtered in the receiving tank 111, the water becomes filtered water, and the outlet pipe 122 is used to drain the filtered water out of the receiving tank 111. The inlet pipe 121 can be positioned near the top of the housing 11 to facilitate the introduction of water into the receiving tank 111, while the outlet pipe 122 can be positioned near the bottom of the housing 11 to ensure sufficient drainage of the filtered water.

[0073] The rear of the housing 11 can form a receiving groove 112, which is used to accommodate the water inlet pipe 121 and external pipes for communicating with the water inlet pipe 121. The receiving groove 112 has openings at its rear and top. The filter device 10 may include a rear cover 13, which can be placed over the opening at the rear of the receiving groove 112. At this time, the external pipes for communicating with the water inlet pipe 121 extend into the receiving groove 112 from the bottom opening.

[0074] Combination Figure 2 as well as Figure 3The housing 11 has storage protrusions, which can be specifically positioned on the inner wall of the storage groove 112. Two storage protrusions can be provided, and they can be positioned opposite each other on the two side walls of the storage groove 112. The back cover 13 can include storage hooks 131, which are used to hook onto the storage protrusions, thereby fixing the back cover 13 to the housing 11. Two storage hooks 131 can be arranged opposite each other, with each hook hooking onto one of the two storage protrusions.

[0075] Figure 7 yes Figure 2 Top view of the structure shown. Figure 8 yes Figure 7 The structure shown is a cross-sectional view along section line BB. Figure 9 yes Figure 8 The cross-sectional view shown is a schematic diagram of the structure from another perspective. Figure 10 yes Figure 7 A schematic diagram of the structure of the end cap 14 in the middle. Figure 11 yes Figure 10 The end cap 14 shown is a cross-sectional view along section line CC.

[0076] Combination Figures 7-11 The filter device 10 includes an end cap 14, which is disposed at the opening of the receiving groove 111. The end cap 14 is detachably fixed to the opening of the receiving groove 111, with a portion of the end cap 14 located inside the receiving groove 111 and the remaining portion of the end cap 14 exposed outside the receiving groove 111. The user can remove the end cap 14 through the portion exposed outside the receiving groove 111. For example, a lifting portion 141 is provided at the top of the end cap 14, allowing the user to remove the end cap 14 from the receiving groove 111.

[0077] When the end cap 14 is positioned at the opening of the receiving groove 111, the end cap 14 will seal the top opening of the receiving groove 111 to achieve a seal. The shape of the end cap 14 can match the shape of the opening of the receiving groove 111. As shown in the figure, when the opening of the receiving groove 111 is circular, the end cap 14 can be a circular end cap 14.

[0078] Specifically, the end cap 14 is provided with a water inlet 142, which is used to allow the water to be filtered to enter the end cap 14. It should be understood that the end cap 14 includes a top wall and side walls, with the side walls surrounding the top wall, thus forming a downward-opening water guide channel 143. The water inlet 142 can be located on the top wall, the side wall, or both. In this case, the water to be filtered enters the end cap 14 through the water inlet 142, or it can enter the water guide channel 21 through the water inlet 142. Multiple water inlets 142 can be provided at intervals along the circumference of the end cap 14, i.e., at intervals along the circumference of the side walls.

[0079] Figure 12 This is a structural diagram of the structure located at the receiving groove 111. Figure 13 yes Figure 12 An exploded view of the structure shown. Figure 14 yes Figure 12 A cross-sectional view of the structure shown.

[0080] Combination Figure 8 , Figure 9 as well as Figures 12-14 The filter device 10 includes a filter element 15, which is disposed within a receiving groove 111 and located below the end cap 14. The filter element 15 forms a filter groove 151. The filter element 15 may be entirely located within the receiving groove 111, such as... Figure 8 as well as Figure 9 As shown. The filter element 15 and the end cap 14 can be directly contacted or connected through other structures. The opening formed by the filter element 15 faces upward and toward the end cap 14, allowing water in the end cap 14 to be naturally guided into the filter tank 151 by gravity. In summary, the opening of the filter tank 151 faces the opening at the bottom of the guide tank 143, and water in the guide tank 143 is guided into the filter tank 151 through its lower opening.

[0081] After water in end cap 14 is introduced into filter tank 151, the water in filter tank 151 will further pass through filter tank 151 to achieve filtration. The water passing through filter tank 151 is introduced into receiving tank 111 and discharged from receiving tank 111. In summary, the water in receiving tank 111 is discharged through water outlet pipe 122. Specifically, filter element 15 can be cylindrical, and in this case, receiving tank 111 can also be cylindrical, for example... Figure 8 as well as Figure 9As shown. A gap is formed between the outer wall of the filter element 15 and the inner wall of the receiving tank 111 to ensure that the water discharged from the filter tank 151 can flow down through the gap without the inner wall of the receiving tank 111 obstructing the flow of the water discharged from the filter tank 151.

[0082] Combination Figure 12 In some specific embodiments, the filter element 15 may include a filter frame 152 and a filter screen 153. The filter frame 152 forms multiple hollow areas, and the filter screen 153 is disposed in the hollow areas. The filter frame 152 constitutes the skeleton of the filter element 15, and the filter screen 153 is the structure through which the filter element 15 performs its filtering function. The filter frame 152 and the filter screen 153 form a filter tank 151, through which water in the filter tank 151 is filtered.

[0083] It should be understood that synthetic clothing contains microplastics such as polyester and acrylic fibers, most of which are non-biodegradable plastics. Washing machine drain contains a significant amount of microplastics, which refer to plastic fragments and particles with a diameter of less than 5 millimeters. In some applications, the pore size of filter 153 is smaller than a preset pore size, thus enabling filter 153 to effectively filter these microfibers.

[0084] Figure 15 yes Figure 13 A schematic diagram of the structure of the cleaning component 16 in the middle. Figure 16 yes Figure 15 The cleaning component 16 shown is a cross-sectional view along section line DD.

[0085] Combination Figure 13 as well as Figure 14 The filter device 10 includes a cleaning element 16, which is disposed at the bottom of the end cap 14. The top of the cleaning element 16 can be disposed inside the end cap 14, that is, the top is disposed inside the water guide groove 143. In this case, the outer peripheral wall of the top of the cleaning element 16 can be attached to the inner peripheral wall of the water guide groove 143, so that all the water in the water guide groove 143 can be guided into the cleaning element 16.

[0086] Combination Figure 15 as well as Figure 16 The bottom of the cleaning component 16 is provided with a water guide hole 161. The depth direction of the water guide hole 161 is inclined relative to the vertical direction towards the inner wall of the filter tank 151, that is, the depth direction of the water guide hole 161 is inclined away from the center of the water guide component. When the filter device 10 is normally placed, the height direction of the cleaning component 16 is the vertical direction. Combined with... Figure 16The depth direction of the water guide hole 161 has an angle A with the vertical direction. When the number of water guide holes 161 is set to multiple, the angles between the multiple water guide holes 161 and the vertical direction can be the same or different. The multiple water guide holes 161 shown in the attached figure have the same angle in the vertical direction.

[0087] With the above-described configuration, the water guide hole 161 allows the end cap 14 to be introduced into the water in the cleaning component 16, which is then directed to the inner wall of the filter tank 151. This water flow then washes the inner wall of the filter tank 151. Therefore, based on the filtration device 10 provided in the above embodiments of this application, during the process of the water to be filtered being introduced from the cleaning component 16 into the filter tank 151, the water guide hole 161 ensures that the water directly washes the inner wall of the filter tank 151, preventing debris from clogging the filter component 15 and thus guaranteeing a good filtration effect.

[0088] Continue to combine Figure 16 In some specific embodiments, the cleaning component 16 includes a cleaning bottom wall 162 and a cleaning side wall 163, with the cleaning bottom wall 162 surrounding the cleaning side wall 163 to form a cleaning groove 164. The cleaning bottom wall 162 can be circular, in which case the cleaning side wall 163 is annular. A water guide hole 161 is provided on the cleaning bottom wall 162, allowing water from the end cap 14 to be guided into the cleaning groove 164 and discharged through the water guide hole 161.

[0089] Combining the arrangement of the water guide channel 143 in the above embodiments and Figure 14 When the cleaning sidewall 163 of the cleaning component 16 is in contact with the inner wall of the water guide channel 143, the water guide channel 143 and the cleaning channel 164 together form the water guide cavity 17. The water inlet 142 is located above the cleaning component 16, and the water inlet 142 guides water into the water guide cavity 17 so that it can be discharged from the water guide hole 161. That is, all the water introduced into the water guide cavity 17 through the water inlet 142 will be discharged from the water guide hole 161 so that it can enter the filter tank 151 from the water guide hole 161, thereby ensuring a good filtration effect.

[0090] In some specific embodiments, the water guide holes 161 are divided into at least two groups, each group of water guide holes 161 includes multiple water guide holes 161, and the water guide holes 161 in each group are spaced apart from each other. Figure 15 as well as Figure 16 The water guide holes 161 are divided into two groups, and each group of water guide holes 161 includes four water guide holes 161, which are arranged at intervals.

[0091] Specifically, the multiple water guide holes 161 in each group can be arranged in a ring, and the ring can be a closed shape, specifically a circle, ellipse, rectangle, etc. In the embodiment where the bottom wall 162 is arranged in a circle, the multiple water guide holes 161 in each group can be arranged in a circle, and each water guide hole 161 is arc-shaped.

[0092] The two sets of water guide holes 161 arranged in a ring can be spaced apart. In this case, the depth direction of the water guide holes 161 is inclined towards the outside of the ring relative to the vertical direction. When the two sets of water guide holes 161 are arranged in a circle, the two circles can be arranged concentrically with different radii. In this case, the depth direction of the water guide holes 161 is inclined away from the center of the circle.

[0093] It should be understood that by setting multiple sets of water guide holes 161, water in the cleaning tank 164 can be quickly introduced into the filter tank 151, avoiding problems with poor water flow within the filter tank 151. By arranging the water guide holes 161 in a ring shape, the water discharged from the water guide holes 161 diffuses in all directions, thereby achieving a thorough rinsing of the inner wall of the filter tank 151.

[0094] Combination Figure 8 , Figure 9 as well as Figure 13 , Figure 14 In some specific embodiments, the filter device 10 includes an elastic element 18, which connects the end cap 14 and the filter element 15. The elastic element 18 is capable of elastic deformation in the vertical and / or horizontal directions.

[0095] Specifically, the elastic element 18 can be a spring, sheet, or other structure capable of elastic deformation; in the accompanying drawings, the elastic element 18 is shown as a spring. The top end of the elastic element 18 can be connected to the bottom end of the end cap 14, and the bottom end of the elastic element 18 can be connected to the filter element 15. The end cap 14 and the filter element 15 can be connected solely through the elastic element 18, thereby fixing the filter element 15 to the end cap 14 via the elastic element 18. Of course, in other embodiments, other structures can also be provided between the end cap 14 and the elastic element 18, and these other structures can also connect the end cap 14 and the filter element 15.

[0096] It should be understood that when water in the end cap 14 is introduced into the filter tank 151, the gravity of the water will impact the filter tank 151, causing the filter element 15 to cause the elastic element 18 to undergo elastic deformation, thus causing the filter element 15 to vibrate. Specifically, the elastic element 18 may only undergo elastic deformation in the vertical direction, causing the filter element 15 to vibrate in the vertical direction; the elastic element 18 may only undergo elastic deformation in the horizontal direction, causing the filter element 15 to vibrate in the horizontal direction; or the elastic element 18 may undergo elastic deformation in both the vertical and horizontal directions simultaneously, causing the filter element 15 to vibrate in both the vertical and horizontal directions simultaneously.

[0097] In summary, with the elastic element 18 in place, during the process of water being introduced from the end cap 14 into the filter element 15, the water's own gravity causes the filter element 15 to cause the elastic element 18 to undergo elastic deformation, resulting in the filter element 15 shaking. This shaking of the filter element 15 helps to remove debris from the inner wall of the filter tank 151, preventing excessive accumulation of debris that could clog the filter tank 151 and affect the filter element's effectiveness and water guiding efficiency.

[0098] It should be understood that in embodiments with the elastic element 18, the cleaning element 16 can be omitted. In this case, water from the end cap 14 is directly introduced into the filter element 15, and the shaking of the filter element 15 achieves a relatively good filtration effect. Alternatively, in embodiments with the elastic element 18, the cleaning element 16 can also be included. In this case, the shaking of the filter element 15 and the rinsing effect of the water flow from the cleaning element 16 achieve a dual anti-clogging effect, resulting in a better filtration performance.

[0099] Combination Figure 16 In the embodiment where the cleaning element 16 is provided, the top end of the elastic element 18 is connected to the bottom wall of the cleaning element 16, and the bottom end of the elastic element 18 is connected to the bottom wall of the filter tank 151. At least a portion of the elastic element 18 is located within the filter tank 151. By connecting the bottom end of the elastic element 18 to the bottom wall of the filter tank 151, ensuring that at least a portion of the elastic element 18 is located within the filter tank 151, the elastic element 18 provides a stable bearing effect on the filter element 15, thereby making the position of the filter element 15 relatively stable. The top end of the elastic element 18 can be fixed to the center position of the cleaning element 16, in which case the length direction of the elastic element 18 is vertical.

[0100] Figure 17 yes Figure 13 A schematic diagram of the structure of filter element 15 from another perspective.

[0101] Combination Figure 16In some specific embodiments, the bottom wall center of the cleaning component 16 protrudes downward to form a first connecting post 165, and a water guide hole 161 is disposed on the periphery of the first connecting post 165. Combined with... Figure 16 The bottom wall 162 and the side wall 163 of the cleaning component 16 are provided. In some specific embodiments, the bottom wall 162 of the cleaning component 16 protrudes downward to form a first connecting post 165.

[0102] Combination Figure 17 The bottom wall of the filter tank 151 protrudes upward to form a second connecting post 154, the height of which is less than the depth of the filter tank 151. The bottom end of the first connecting post 165 can be located above the filter element 15 or inside the filter tank 151.

[0103] The elastic element 18 is spring-shaped, with its top end sleeved on the first connecting post 165 and its bottom end sleeved on the second connecting post 154, thereby connecting the cleaning element 16 and the filter element 15. The arrangement of the first connecting post 165 and the second connecting post 154 ensures that the elastic element 18 can effectively connect the cleaning element 16 and the filter element 15.

[0104] Combination Figure 13 as well as Figure 14 In the embodiment where the elastic element 18 is provided, the filter device 10 may further include a telescopic cylinder 19. The top end of the telescopic cylinder 19 is fitted onto the end cap 14, and the bottom end of the telescopic cylinder 19 is fitted onto the filter element 15. The outer wall of the top of the telescopic cylinder 19 can be connected to the inner wall of the bottom of the end cap 14, and the bottom of the telescopic cylinder 19 can be fitted onto the outer wall of the top of the filter element 15. To ensure a good connection between the telescopic cylinder 19 and the filter element 15, the telescopic cylinder 19 can be clamped onto the filter element 15 using an annular clamp (not shown). With this arrangement, water in the end cap 14 will be introduced into the filter element 15 through the telescopic cylinder 19. At this time, the filter element 15 and the end cap 14 are indirectly connected through the telescopic cylinder 19. Combined with the above-mentioned provision of the elastic element 18, the elastic element 18 is located within the telescopic cylinder 19 and the filter tank 151.

[0105] Specifically, the telescopic cylinder 19 is flexibly configured to extend and retract in the vertical direction. In conjunction with the elastic element 18, when water in the end cap 14 flows into the filter tank 151 through the telescopic cylinder 19, the elastic element 18 undergoes elastic deformation in the vertical direction. At this time, the telescopic cylinder 19 extends and retracts, causing the filter element 15 to vibrate. Of course, in other embodiments, the telescopic cylinder 19 can also deform in the horizontal direction, thereby cooperating with the elastic element 18 to undergo elastic deformation in the horizontal direction, allowing the filter element 15 to shake in the horizontal direction.

[0106] Figure 18 yes Figure 13 An exploded view of the structure of the end cap 14, the first sealing ring 231, and the second sealing ring 232.

[0107] Combination Figure 11 as well as Figure 18 In some specific embodiments, a water inlet groove 21 is formed on the side wall of the end cap 14, and the water inlet groove 21 is connected to the water guide groove 143 through a water inlet 142. The water inlet groove 21 can be arranged in a ring shape, and there can be multiple water inlets 142, all of which are connected to the water inlet groove 21.

[0108] Combination Figure 8 When the end cap 14 is placed inside the receiving groove 111, the opening of the water inlet groove 21 is sealed to the side wall of the receiving groove 111. The side wall of the receiving groove 111 is provided with a water inlet hole 22 that communicates with the water inlet groove 21. The water inlet hole 22 is used to guide external water into the water inlet groove 21 and then into the water inlet 142. At this time, external water is introduced into the water inlet groove 21 through the water inlet hole 22, and the water in the water inlet groove 21 is further introduced into the water guide groove 143 through the water inlet 142.

[0109] It should be understood that in embodiments without a water inlet trough 21, external water is introduced into the end cap 14 through the water inlet hole, and the internal space of the end cap 14 is the water guide trough 143. In embodiments with a water inlet trough 21, both the water inlet trough 21 and the water guide trough 143 belong to the internal space of the end cap 14, and external water is introduced into the end cap 14 through the water inlet hole 22.

[0110] Combination Figure 18 In some specific embodiments, the outer wall of the end cap 14 protrudes to form a first annular portion 144 and a second annular portion 145. A water inlet 142 is provided on the outer wall of the end cap 14 and located between the first annular portion 144 and the second annular portion 145. The first annular portion 144 and the second annular portion 145 have the same protrusion height relative to the outer wall of the end cap 14. The first annular portion 144 and the second annular portion 145 extend circumferentially along the end cap 14, and are spaced apart in the height direction of the end cap 14 to form a water inlet groove 21. In conjunction with the above, when the end cap 14 is disposed within the receiving groove 111, the outer portions of the first annular portion 144 and the second annular portion 145 abut against the inner wall of the receiving groove 111, thereby sealing the opening at the end of the water inlet groove 21.

[0111] Furthermore, the filter device 10 includes a first sealing ring 231 and a second sealing ring 232. The first sealing ring 231 is disposed between the inner wall of the filter tank 151 and the first annular portion 144, and the second sealing ring 232 is disposed between the inner wall of the filter tank 151 and the second annular portion 145. The first sealing ring 231 and the second sealing ring 232 are flexibly disposed. The first sealing ring 231 is used to seal the gap between the filter tank 151 and the first annular portion 144, and the second sealing ring 232 is used to seal the gap between the filter tank 151 and the second annular portion 145. It should be understood that when the first annular portion 144 and the second annular portion 145 come into contact with the inner wall of the receiving groove 111, due to the relatively hard material of the first annular portion 144 and the second annular portion 145, there will be a certain gap between them and the inner wall of the receiving groove 111. Since the first sealing ring 231 and the second sealing ring 232 are flexibly arranged, when the first sealing ring 231 and the second sealing ring 232 come into contact with the inner wall of the receiving groove 111, they can seal the gap between the first annular portion 144 and the second annular portion 145 and the inner wall of the receiving groove 111.

[0112] The outer side of the first annular portion 144 may be provided with a first annular groove 146, and the outer side of the second annular portion 145 may be provided with a second annular groove 147. The first sealing ring 231 may be disposed in the first annular groove 146, and the second annular portion 145 may be disposed in the second annular groove 147. The first sealing ring 231 protrudes relative to the opening of the first annular groove 146, and the second sealing ring 232 protrudes relative to the opening of the second annular groove 147, thereby making the first sealing ring 231 contact the inner wall of the receiving groove 111, and the second sealing ring 232 contact the inner wall of the receiving groove 111.

[0113] Figure 19 This is a schematic diagram of another embodiment of the filtering device 10 provided in this application. Figure 20 yes Figure 19 Top view of the structure shown. Figure 21 yes Figure 20 The structure shown is a cross-sectional view along section line EE. Figure 22 yes Figure 19 The exploded view of the structure shown.

[0114] In some specific embodiments, the filter device 10 includes the housing 11, end cap 14, and filter element 15 as described in the above embodiments. The specific arrangement of the housing 11, end cap 14, and filter element 15 can be found in the above embodiments and will not be repeated here. In this embodiment, the filter device 10 also includes a cleaning brush 24, at least a portion of which is disposed within the filter groove 151, such as... Figure 21 The cleaning brush 24 can be completely located within the receiving slot 111.

[0115] Specifically, the cleaning brush 24 contacts the inner wall of the filter tank 151. The portion of the cleaning brush 24 that contacts the inner wall of the filter tank 151 is flexibly designed, and this flexible portion can abut against the inner wall of the filter tank 151. The cleaning brush 24 can rotate around its axis within the filter tank 151, and its axis of rotation can be its own central axis. The cleaning brush 24 cleans the inner wall of the receiving tank 111 by rotating.

[0116] Figure 23 yes Figure 22 A schematic diagram of the structure of the cleaning brush 24. Figure 24 yes Figure 23 Top view of cleaning brush 24 in the middle. Figure 25 yes Figure 24 A cross-sectional view of the cleaning brush 24 along section line FF.

[0117] Combination Figures 23-25 The cleaning brush 24 has a propulsion section 241 at its top. Water from the end cap 14 impacts the propulsion section 241 as it is introduced into the filter tank 151, causing the propulsion section 241 to push the cleaning brush 24 to rotate. This rotation allows the cleaning brush 24 to scrub the inner wall of the filter tank 151. The propulsion section 241 can be plate-shaped. Water from the end cap 14 impacts one side of the propulsion section 241 as it is introduced into the filter tank 151, causing the propulsion section 241 to exert a force on the circumference of the cleaning brush 24, thus causing the cleaning brush 24 to rotate.

[0118] Specifically, in order for the water flow to cause the cleaning brush 24 to rotate, the direction of the water flow can be at a certain angle to the vertical direction, so that the water flow will exert a certain force on the propulsion part 241 in the horizontal direction, causing the propulsion part 241 to drive the cleaning brush 24 to rotate.

[0119] In summary, in the above embodiments, by providing a propulsion part 241 at the top of the cleaning brush 24 and impacting the propulsion part 241 with the water flow directed by the end cap 14, the cleaning brush 24 is rotated, enabling it to clean the inner wall of the filter tank 151. Therefore, this embodiment can automatically drive the cleaning brush 24 by guiding the water in the filter tank 151, thereby automatically cleaning the filter tank 151 and preventing debris from clogging the filter tank 151, thus ensuring the filtration efficiency of the filter element 15.

[0120] Figure 26 yes Figure 22 Top view of the water distribution component 25 in the middle. Figure 27 yes Figure 26 A schematic diagram of the structure of the water distribution component 25 from another perspective.

[0121] Combination Figure 21 , Figure 22 as well as Figure 26 as well as Figure 27 In some specific embodiments, the filter device 10 does not have the cleaning component 16 as described in the above embodiments, but instead has a water distribution component 25. The water distribution component 25 is located at the bottom of the end cap 14, so that water inside the end cap 14 can enter the water distribution component 25.

[0122] Specifically, the water distributor 25 can be roughly arranged in a ring shape, with the outer wall of the top of the water distributor 25 abutting against the inner wall of the receiving groove 111. This allows the water distributor 25 to seal the opening at the lower end of the water guide groove 143 of the end cap 14, ensuring that water entering the water guide groove 143 can only be discharged through the water distributor 25. Combined with... Figure 27 The outer wall of the top of the water distribution component 25 can be provided with external threads, and the inner wall of the bottom of the end cap 14 can be provided with corresponding internal threads. The water distribution component 25 is screwed onto the inner wall of the end cap 14 to achieve relative fixation.

[0123] Combination Figure 21 as well as Figure 26 The water distribution component 25 is provided with a water distribution groove 251. When the water distribution component 25 is located at the bottom of the end cap 14, the water guide groove 143 communicates with the water distribution groove 251, thereby allowing the water guide groove 143 to guide water into the water distribution groove 251. The bottom wall of the water distribution groove 251 is provided with a water outlet 252. Water in the end cap 14 is guided into the water distribution groove 251 and discharged from the water outlet 252. The water discharged from the water outlet 252 is used to impact the propulsion part 241 to make the cleaning brush 24 rotate.

[0124] Specifically, there are multiple water outlets 252 to effectively drain water from the water distribution tank 251. The water drained from the water outlets 252 can form a certain angle with the vertical direction before flowing towards the propulsion unit 241. This can be achieved by setting the specific shape of the water outlets 252. For example, the depth direction of the water outlets 252 can be set to form a certain angle with the vertical direction, so that the water flowing out of the water outlets 252 also forms a certain angle with the vertical direction. Alternatively, this can be achieved by setting a water guiding structure below the water outlets 252 to guide the water flow. Even if the water flow from the water outlets 252 is vertically downward, the water guiding structure can still ensure that the water flow forms a certain angle with the vertical direction before flowing towards the propulsion unit 241.

[0125] Combination Figure 27In some specific embodiments, the water distribution component 25 is provided with a water guiding section 256, which is located below the water distribution port 252. The water guiding section 256 is used to guide the water discharged from the water distribution port 252 to the propulsion section 241, so that the cleaning section pushes the cleaning brush 24 to rotate. The water guiding section 256 can be arranged in a strip shape, and can be arranged one-to-one with the water distribution port 252, so that the water flow discharged from each water distribution port 252 can be discharged through the water guiding section 256. In summary, the water guiding section 256 is a water guiding structure. When the water discharged from the water distribution port 252 is finally discharged by the water guiding section 256, the discharged water flow will form a certain angle with the vertical direction, thus facilitating the discharged water flow to push the propulsion section 241 in the horizontal direction, causing the cleaning brush 24 to rotate.

[0126] Combination Figure 27 In some specific embodiments, the bottom wall 253 of the water distributor has a downwardly protruding first annular wall 254, and the water outlet 252 is disposed on the bottom wall 253 of the water distributor and located outside the first annular wall 254. In this case, the bottom wall 253 of the water distributor can be annularly arranged, such that the center of the bottom wall 253 of the water distributor coincides with the center of the first annular wall 254. The water guide portion 256 is disposed on the outer wall of the first annular wall 254 and located directly below the water outlet 252. The outer wall of the first annular wall 254 is the side wall of the first annular wall 254 located away from the center of the bottom wall 253 of the water distributor.

[0127] Specifically, the water guiding section 256 extends both axially and circumferentially along the first annular wall 254 in an arc shape. The water guiding section 256 guides the water discharged from the water divider 252 downwards along the circumference of the first annular wall 254. At this time, the water guiding section 256 is strip-shaped, with one side wall facing the water divider 252, thereby guiding the water discharged from the water divider 252 through this side wall. It should be understood that when the water discharged from the water divider 252 flows downwards along the circumference of the first annular wall 254, the water in the guiding propulsion section 241 will form a certain angle with the vertical direction, thus facilitating the propulsion section 241.

[0128] Figure 28 This is a schematic diagram of the water distribution component 25 and the cleaning brush 24 in their combined state. Figure 29 yes Figure 28 A cross-sectional view of the structure shown. Figure 30 yes Figure 29 An enlarged structural diagram of region A in the diagram.

[0129] Combination Figure 21 , Figure 23 as well as Figure 25In some specific embodiments, the top of the cleaning brush 24 is provided with a second annular wall 242, which is arranged around the first annular wall 254 at intervals. The water guiding part 256 is in contact with the inner sidewall of the second annular wall 242. The radius of the second annular wall 242 is larger than the outer wall of the first annular wall 254, and the center of the second annular wall 242 can coincide with the center of the first annular wall 254. Combined with the arrangement of the propulsion part 241, the propulsion part 241 can be disposed on the inner sidewall of the second annular part 145. When multiple propulsion parts 241 are provided, they can be arranged at intervals along the circumference of the second annular part 145.

[0130] Combination Figure 29 as well as Figure 30 When the water guide 256 is in contact with the inner wall of the second annular wall 242, the first annular wall 254, the second annular wall 242 and the water guide 256 form a guide groove 255. The propulsion part 241 is disposed on the inner wall of the second annular wall 242 and located below the guide groove 255. The guide groove 255 receives the water discharged from the water outlet 252 to impact the propulsion part 241 on one side in the clockwise or counterclockwise direction.

[0131] Specifically, the opening of the guide channel 255 faces the water outlet 252, allowing the water discharged from the water outlet 252 to flow directly into the guide channel 255, which in turn guides the water flow to the propulsion section 241. In embodiments where the propulsion section 241 is plate-shaped, the side wall of the propulsion section 241 that receives the water flow can be oriented clockwise or counterclockwise on the second annular portion 145, meaning that the water discharged from the guide channel 255 impacts the propulsion section 241 on one side in the clockwise or counterclockwise direction.

[0132] Figure 31 yes Figure 22 A cross-sectional view of the cleaning brush 24 in the middle. Figure 32 yes Figure 31 An enlarged structural diagram of region B in the diagram.

[0133] Combination Figure 31 and Figure 32 In some specific embodiments, the propulsion section 241 includes an arc-shaped section 2411. Specifically, the propulsion section 241 includes an arc-shaped section 2411 and a vertical section 2412 (separated by dashed lines in the figure). The vertical section 2412 extends in the vertical direction, and the arc-shaped section 2411 is arc-shaped. The lower section of the vertical section 2412 is connected to the upper end of the arc-shaped section 2411.

[0134] Combination Figure 30The inner arc of the arc-shaped section 2411 faces the outlet of the guide groove 255 in either a clockwise or counterclockwise direction. In this case, the inner arc of the arc-shaped section 2411 faces the outlet of the guide groove 255 in a counterclockwise direction. The outlet of the guide groove 255 directs water to the inner arc, causing the propulsion unit 241 to drive the cleaning brush 24 to rotate. It should be understood that when the guide groove 255 directs water to the inner arc, the water has a greater impact force on the inner arc, thus facilitating the rotation of the cleaning brush 24.

[0135] Combination Figure 24 The number of propulsion units 241 is multiple, and the multiple propulsion units 241 are arranged at intervals in the circumferential direction of the second annular portion 145. Combined with Figure 27 The number of water guiding parts 256 is multiple, and the multiple water guiding parts 256 are arranged at intervals in the circumferential direction of the first annular portion 144. Figure 30 The water distribution component 25 is fixed to the end cap 14, while the cleaning brush 24 can rotate. During this rotation, the propulsion part 241 moves relative to the water guiding part 256. When the water guiding part 256 directs water to the propulsion part 241, causing the cleaning brush 24 to rotate, the water from multiple water guiding parts 256 impacts different propulsion parts 241, and the water from multiple water guiding parts 256 impacts multiple propulsion parts 241 on the same side in either a clockwise or counterclockwise direction. Figure 30 As shown, the water discharged by the multiple water guides 256 will impact one side of the multiple propulsion sections 241 in the counterclockwise direction, that is, impact the inner arc of the arc section 2411.

[0136] Combination Figure 21 as well as Figure 23 In some specific embodiments, the cleaning brush 24 includes a rotating shaft 243, a second annular wall 242 surrounding the rotating shaft 243, and two ends of the propulsion part 241 respectively connected to the second annular wall 242 and the rotating shaft 243. Here, the two ends of the propulsion part 241 refer to its horizontal ends, not its vertical ends. The cleaning brush 24 may also include a spiral skeleton mounted on the rotating shaft 243 and bristles mounted on the spiral skeleton. The bristles contact the inner wall of the filter tank 151, thereby achieving the cleaning of the inner wall of the filter tank 151.

[0137] Combination Figure 27 The first annular portion 144 surrounds and forms a first rotating groove 257. The first rotating groove 257 is an annular groove, and its diameter is larger than that of the rotating shaft 243, thereby allowing the top end of the rotating shaft 243 to be rotatably disposed within the first rotating groove 257. Figure 21 As shown, the outer wall of the top end of the rotating shaft 243 can be attached to the inner wall of the first annular portion 144, and the top wall of the top end of the rotating shaft 243 can abut against the bottom wall 253 of the water distribution component.

[0138] Combination Figure 21 In some specific embodiments, the bottom of the filter tank 151 is provided with a mounting portion 155, which protrudes relative to the bottom wall of the filter tank 151. It should be understood that in embodiments where the elastic member 18 is provided, the second connecting post 154 is provided in a similar manner to the mounting portion 155, but the height of the second connecting post 154 is higher than the height of the mounting portion 155.

[0139] Combination Figure 25 The bottom of the rotating shaft 243 is provided with a second rotating groove 2431, and the opening of the second rotating groove 2431 faces downward. Combined with... Figure 21 When the cleaning brush 24 is positioned in the filter tank 151, the mounting part 155 is positioned within the second rotating groove 2431, allowing the rotating shaft 243 to rotate relative to the mounting part 155. It should be understood that at this time, the cleaning brush 24 is relatively fixed by its top being positioned within the first rotating groove 257 and its bottom being engaged with the mounting part 155 via the second rotating groove 2431. When the cleaning brush 24 rotates, the top of the rotating shaft 243 rotates within the first mounting groove 29, and the mounting part 155 rotates within the second mounting groove 29 relative to it.

[0140] Figure 33 This is a schematic diagram of another embodiment of the filtering device 10 provided in this application. Figure 34 yes Figure 33 A cross-sectional view of the structure shown. Figure 35 yes Figure 33 An exploded view of the structure shown. Figure 36 This is a schematic diagram of the overflow ring 26 and the end cap 14 in their combined state. Figure 37 yes Figure 36 The structure shown is a cross-sectional view along section line GG. Figure 38 yes Figure 37 An enlarged structural diagram of region C in the diagram.

[0141] Combination Figures 33-38 In some embodiments, the filter device 10 includes a housing 11, an end cap 14, and a filter element 15. The specific arrangement of the housing 11, the end cap 14, and the filter element 15 can be found in the above embodiments. This embodiment also includes an overflow ring 26.

[0142] Specifically, the overflow ring 26 is sleeved on the end cap 14 and located on the outer periphery of the filter element 15. The overflow ring 26 can be specifically positioned at the bottom of the end cap 14. Combining the above content and... Figure 36 When the end cap 14 is provided with a second annular portion 145, the overflow ring 26 can be provided below the second annular portion 145. Combined with... Figure 38The inner wall of the overflow ring 26 may be provided with internal threads, and the outer wall of the bottom of the end cap 14 may be provided with external threads. The overflow ring 26 is fixed to the bottom of the end cap 14 by screwing, at which time the top of the overflow ring 26 can abut against the bottom wall of the second annular part 145.

[0143] Figure 39 This is a cross-sectional view of the filter device 10 installed inside the housing 11. Figure 40 yes Figure 39 An enlarged schematic diagram of the structure of region D in the diagram.

[0144] Combination Figure 39 as well as Figure 40 Specifically, the outer periphery of the overflow ring 26 abuts against the inner wall of the receiving groove 111, and the overflow ring 26, the inner wall of the receiving groove 111, and the end cap 14 together form the overflow cavity 27.

[0145] Combination Figure 37 as well as Figure 38 The end cap 14 includes a first outlet 148 and a second outlet 149. In an embodiment where the end cap 14 is provided with a water guide groove 143 and a water inlet groove 21, the first outlet 148 is the opening of the water guide groove 143, i.e., the opening of the bottom wall of the end cap 14, and the second outlet 149 is located on the bottom wall of the water inlet groove 21. In this case, both the water inlet groove 21 and the water guide groove 143 are internal spaces of the end cap 14. The first outlet 148 is used to guide water from inside the end cap 14 into the filter tank 151, and the second outlet 149 is used to guide water from inside the end cap 14 into the receiving tank 111.

[0146] In the above embodiment, the opening of the water inlet trough 21 is attached to the side wall of the receiving trough 111 to seal the contents of the water inlet trough 21. The inner wall of the receiving trough 111 is provided with a water inlet hole 22, which is connected to the water inlet pipe 121. The water inlet hole 22 is used to guide external water into the water inlet trough 21, and then guide it into the water guide trough 143 through the water inlet trough 21.

[0147] Combination Figure 39 as well as Figure 40 The second outlet 149 is connected to the overflow chamber 27, allowing water in the end cap 14 to enter the overflow chamber 27 through the second outlet 149. The overflow ring 26 has a water-permeable filtration function, allowing water in the overflow chamber 27 to be filtered through the overflow ring 26. The filtered water can then be directly introduced into the receiving tank 111 and discharged by the receiving tank 111.

[0148] It should be understood that when the filter element 15 is clogged (i.e., when the filter tank 151 is blocked), the continuous flow of external water into the filter tank 151 will cause the water in the filter tank 151 to fill and fill the end cap 14. At this time, the water pressure in the end cap 14 will be greater than the preset water pressure. At this time, the water in the overflow chamber 27 will be filtered through the overflow ring 26 and introduced into the receiving tank 111 and discharged from the receiving tank 111. It should be understood that when the water pressure in the end cap 14 is less than the preset water pressure, the water in the end cap 14 will only be introduced into the filter tank 151 from the first outlet 148, and the water in the end cap 14 will not be introduced into the overflow chamber 27 from the second outlet 149.

[0149] In some specific embodiments, the filter device 10 includes a control valve (not shown) located at the second outlet 149. When the filter tank 151 is blocked, causing the water pressure at the control valve to exceed a preset water pressure, the control valve opens the second outlet 149 to guide water from the end cap 14 into the overflow chamber 27. When the water pressure at the control valve is less than the preset water pressure, the control valve closes the second outlet 149, allowing all water in the end cap 14 to be guided into the filter tank 151 from the first outlet 148. Alternatively, in other embodiments, to ensure that water in the end cap 14 can be discharged from the second outlet 149 only when the water pressure is greater than the preset water pressure, the peripheral wall of the second outlet 149 can be made flexible and initially closed. This allows water in the end cap 14 to squeeze the second outlet 149 when the water pressure exceeds the preset water pressure, thus allowing water in the end cap 14 to be discharged from the second outlet 149.

[0150] In summary, the overflow ring 26 ensures that when the filter element 15 is blocked, water in the end cap 14 can be guided into the receiving tank 111 through the overflow ring 26. Therefore, it avoids problems such as unfiltered drainage and poor drainage caused by blockage of the filter tank 151, ensuring good drainage while maintaining good filtration performance.

[0151] Specifically, in conjunction with the arrangement of the first annular portion 144 and the second annular portion 145 in the above embodiments, the second outlet 149 can be disposed on the second annular portion 145. In order to ensure good filtration and drainage effects even when the filter element 15 is clogged, multiple second outlets 149 can be provided. These multiple second outlets 149 can be arranged at intervals around the circumference of the second annular portion 145, so that when the water pressure inside the end cap 14 is greater than the preset water pressure, the water inside the end cap 14 can be fully discharged through the second outlets 149.

[0152] Figure 41 yes Figure 35 A schematic diagram of the overflow ring 26 in the middle. Figure 42 yes Figure 41 Top view of overflow ring 26 in the middle. Figure 43 yes Figure 42 A cross-sectional view of the overflow ring 26 along section line HH.

[0153] In conjunction with the arrangement of the first sealing ring 231 and the second sealing ring 232 in the above embodiments, in this specific embodiment, the filter device 10 includes a third sealing ring (not shown in the figure). The third sealing ring is disposed between the receiving groove 111 and the overflow ring 26, and is used to seal the gap between the filter groove 151 and the overflow ring 26.

[0154] Combination Figures 40-43 The outer peripheral wall of the overflow ring 26 is provided with a third annular groove 261, the opening of which faces away from the center of the overflow ring 26. The third sealing ring is flexibly designed, and part of the third sealing ring is located within the third annular groove 261. The top of the third sealing ring protrudes relative to the opening of the third annular groove 261, so that the third sealing ring can directly abut against the inner wall of the receiving groove 111, thereby sealing the gap between the overflow ring 26 and the inner wall of the receiving groove 111.

[0155] Combination Figures 41-43 In some specific embodiments, the overflow ring 26 includes a cylindrical portion 262 and a third annular portion 263. The third annular portion 263 protrudes from the cylindrical portion 262 and extends circumferentially around the cylindrical portion 262. The cylindrical portion 262 is fitted onto the end cap 14, and the third annular portion 263 abuts against the inner wall of the receiving groove 111. In conjunction with the above, the inner wall of the cylindrical portion 262 is provided with internal threads, and the outer wall of the bottom of the end cap 14 is provided with external threads, thereby allowing the cylindrical portion 262 to be relatively fixed by screwing its internal threads onto the external threads of the outer wall of the end cap 14. The third annular groove 261 is located on the side of the third annular portion 263 away from the cylindrical portion 262, at which point the third sealing ring is located between the inner wall of the receiving groove 111 and the third annular portion 263.

[0156] Based on the above, the third annular portion 263 can have an arc-shaped filter groove 264, with the opening of the arc-shaped filter groove 264 facing upwards. Multiple arc-shaped filter grooves 264 can be provided, spaced apart circumferentially around the third annular portion 263, thus forming part of the filter chamber. Figure 43 A filter screen 153 is provided on the third annular portion 263. Water in the overflow chamber 27 is discharged and filtered through the filter screen 153. Specifically, the filter screen 153 is located at the bottom of the arc-shaped filter tank 264 and forms the bottom wall of the arc-shaped filter tank 264. Water in the filter chamber will be directly filtered through the filter screen 153 and then flow into the receiving tank 111. The specific arrangement of the filter screen 153 can be referred to the specific arrangement of the filter screen 153 in the filter element 15, and will not be repeated here.

[0157] Combination Figure 34as well as Figure 35 In some specific embodiments, the filter element 15 includes a first filter element 156 and a second filter element 157. The first filter element 156 forms a first filter groove, and the second filter element 157 forms a second filter groove. The first filter element 156 is spaced apart within the second filter groove. The size of the filter holes on the first filter groove is larger than the size of the filter holes on the second filter groove. The water guide hole 161 is used to guide water in the end cap 14 to the inner wall of the first filter groove 151.

[0158] It should be understood that the water discharged from end cap 14 directly enters the first filter tank. The water filtered through the first filter tank is then directly introduced into the second filter tank for further filtration. The second filter tank 151 then directs the filtered water into the receiving tank 111 for discharge. Because the filter holes in the first filter tank are relatively large, the first filter tank 151 performs initial filtration, removing larger impurities. The filter holes in the second filter tank are smaller, enabling finer filtration and thus achieving a better filtration effect.

[0159] In the embodiment with the overflow ring 26 configured as described above, the water discharged through the overflow ring 26 will be directly guided into the gap between the outer wall of the second filter element 157 and the inner wall of the receiving tank 111, and then flow to the bottom of the receiving tank 111. Based on the above, in embodiments with the cleaning element 16 and the elastic element 18, and in embodiments with the water distribution element 25 and the cleaning brush 24, the filter element 15 can also be configured to include a first filter element 156 and a second filter element 157. For example, in... Figure 34 and Figure 35 In the filter device 10, a cleaning element 16 is provided. At this time, the water discharged by the cleaning element 16 directly cleans the inner wall of the first filter tank.

[0160] Figure 44 This is a top view of the warning device mounted on the housing 11. Figure 45 yes Figure 44 The structure shown is a cross-sectional view along section line II. Figure 46 yes Figure 45 An enlarged structural diagram of region E in the diagram.

[0161] Combination Figures 44-46 In some specific embodiments, the filter device 10 includes a warning component 28 disposed within the housing 11. The warning component 28 is used to warn the user when the water level in the end cap 14 is higher than a preset water level. Specifically, the top of the housing 11 has a mounting groove 29, and the side wall of the receiving groove 111 has a connecting hole 31. The mounting groove 29 communicates with the end cap 14 through the connecting hole 31, so that water in the end cap 14 can enter the mounting groove 29 through the connecting hole 31.

[0162] In conjunction with the above, in the embodiment where a water inlet trough 21 is provided, the connecting hole 31 can communicate with the water inlet trough, thereby allowing water in the water inlet trough 21 of the end cap 14 to enter the mounting groove 29.

[0163] Figure 47 yes Figure 44 A schematic diagram of a structure of an embodiment of the warning component 28, Figure 48 yes Figure 47 The top view of the warning component 28 shown. Figure 49 yes Figure 48 The structure shown is a cross-sectional view along section line JJ.

[0164] Combination Figures 47-49 Specifically, the warning component 28 includes an outer cylinder 281, a warning post 282, and a base 283. The outer cylinder 281 is hollow and has an installation through hole 2811 that penetrates the upper and lower ends of the outer cylinder 281.

[0165] At least a portion of the warning post 282 is disposed within the mounting through hole 2811. The bottom periphery of the warning post 282 abuts against the inner peripheral wall of the mounting through hole 2811, allowing the warning post 282 to move within the mounting through hole 2811. The mounting through hole 2811 includes an upper first segment and a second segment located below the first segment. The diameter of the first segment is smaller than the diameter of the second segment, and the bottom diameter of the warning post 282 is larger than the diameter of the remaining portion. The peripheral wall of the bottom of the warning post 282 contacts the inner wall of the second segment, thereby allowing the bottom of the warning post 282 to slide within the second segment. Due to the limitation of the first segment, the warning post 282 will not slide out from the top of the mounting through hole 2811.

[0166] The base 283 is located at the bottom of the outer cylinder 281 and seals the bottom opening of the mounting through hole 2811. The base 283 is provided with a water guide hole 161, which communicates with the interior of the end cap 14 through the connecting hole 31. In the initial state, the bottom of the warning post 282 rests on the top of the base 283, and the entire warning post 282 is located within the mounting through hole 2811, meaning that the warning post 282 will not extend out of the outer cylinder 281 or the housing 11 at this time.

[0167] Based on the above, when the water pressure inside the end cap 14 increases, the warning post 282 extends out of the mounting through hole 2811 and out of the housing 11 under the action of water pressure. Since the water guide hole 161 is connected to the inside of the end cap 14, when the water pressure inside the end cap 14 increases, the water at the water guide hole 161 will increase the force on the warning post 282, causing the warning post 282 to move upwards and extend out of the mounting through hole 2811, that is, out of the housing 11. At this time, the user can understand that the water pressure inside the end cap 14 has increased, and since increased water pressure inside the end cap 14 is generally due to blockage of the filter tank 151, the user can understand that the filter element 151 is blocked by the extension of the warning post 282. To ensure effective user alertness, the color of the warning post 282 can be set to a more conspicuous color, such as yellow.

[0168] In some specific embodiments, the filter device 10 further includes an elastic element 18 (not shown), which is disposed within the mounting through hole 2811. The top end of the elastic element 18 abuts against the inner wall of the mounting through hole 2811, and the bottom end of the elastic element 18 abuts against the warning element, so as to press the warning element against the base 283. When the water pressure in the end cap 14 increases, causing the warning post 282 to extend out of the mounting through hole 2811, the elastic element 18 is compressed; when the water pressure in the end cap 14 decreases, the elastic force of the elastic element 18 causes the warning post 282 to retract.

[0169] Specifically, the bottom of the elastic element 18 can abut against the larger diameter portion of the bottom of the warning post 282, and the top of the elastic element 18 can abut against the top wall of the second hole section. In this case, the elastic element 18 is disposed within the second hole section and located between the warning post 282 and the inner wall of the second hole section. The elastic element 18 can be specifically configured as a spring, and then sleeved on the outer wall of the warning post 282.

[0170] It should be understood that, through the setting of the elastic element 18, when the water pressure in the end cap 14 decreases to less than the preset water pressure, the warning column 282 will automatically retract, thereby letting the user know that the water pressure in the end cap 14 has decreased, that is, to know that the filter element 15 can drain normally.

[0171] An observation window 32 is also provided on the housing 11. One side of the observation window 32 is located outside the housing 11, and the other side is located inside the receiving groove 111. The observation window 32 is made of transparent material. The observation window 32 can be arranged in a strip shape, and the length of the observation window 32 extends in the same direction as the depth of the receiving groove 111. Users can observe the inside of the receiving groove 111 through the observation window 32, thereby observing the filter element 15 and the water level in the receiving groove 111.

[0172] This application also provides a washing machine control method, which is based on the washing machine described in any of the above claims. Figure 50This is a schematic flowchart of an embodiment of the washing machine control method provided in this application. (In conjunction with...) Figure 50 This method includes the following steps:

[0173] S11: Get the washing machine's drain time.

[0174] During the drainage process of a washing machine, the drainage time is the total time from the start of drainage to the end. This drainage time can be obtained by measuring the operating time of the drain pump.

[0175] S12: When the drainage time exceeds the first preset time, control the washing machine to generate a reminder message to clean the filter immediately.

[0176] The first preset time can be set by the system in advance. When the drainage time exceeds the first preset time, it indicates that the washing machine is having difficulty draining. At this time, a reminder message needs to be generated to remind the user to clean the filter immediately. The reminder message can be in the form of text, voice, etc.

[0177] In some specific embodiments, the first preset time is 8 minutes, that is, when the drainage time is greater than 8 minutes, the washing machine is controlled to generate a reminder message to clean the filter immediately.

[0178] S13: When the drainage time is greater than the second preset time but less than the first preset time, control the washing machine to generate a reminder message to remind the user to clean the filter after the next wash cycle.

[0179] The second preset time can also be set by the system, and it is shorter than the first preset time. When the drainage time is longer than the second preset time but shorter than the first preset time, it indicates that the filter is clogged, but the clogging is minor, and the washing machine can continue to be used during this wash cycle. In this case, the washing machine will generate a reminder message to the user to clean the filter after the next wash cycle, thus ensuring normal drainage for the next wash.

[0180] In conjunction with the above embodiments, the second preset time can be set to 7 minutes, that is, when the drainage time is greater than 7 minutes and less than 8 minutes, the washing machine is controlled to generate a reminder message to remind the user to clean the filter after the next wash cycle.

[0181] The above are merely embodiments of this application and do not limit the scope of this patent application. Any equivalent structural or procedural changes made using the content of this application's specification and drawings, or direct or indirect applications in other related technical fields, are similarly included within the scope of patent protection of this application.

Claims

1. A washing machine, characterized in that, include: The shell has a receiving groove; An end cap is provided at the opening of the receiving groove, and the end cap is provided with a water inlet for the water to be filtered to enter the end cap. A filter element is disposed in the receiving groove and located below the end cap. The filter element forms a filter groove, and water in the end cap can be introduced into the filter groove and filtered through the filter groove. Water that passes through the filter groove is introduced into the receiving groove and discharged from the receiving groove. A water distribution component is provided at the bottom of the end cap. The water distribution component is provided with a water distribution groove, and a water distribution outlet is provided on the bottom wall of the water distribution groove. The water distribution component is provided with a water guiding part, and the water guiding part is located below the water distribution outlet. A cleaning brush is at least partially disposed within the filter tank, the cleaning brush being in contact with the inner wall of the filter tank, and the cleaning brush being able to rotate about its axis within the filter tank. The cleaning brush has a propulsion part at the top. Water in the end cap is introduced into the water distribution tank and discharged from the water distribution port. The water discharged from the water distribution port is guided by the water guide part and impacts the propulsion part, so that the propulsion part pushes the cleaning brush to rotate, thereby cleaning the inner wall of the filter tank by rotating the cleaning brush.

2. The washing machine according to claim 1, characterized in that, The bottom wall of the water divider has a downward protruding first annular wall. The water guide is disposed on the outer wall of the first annular wall and located directly below the water divider. The water guide extends along both the axial and circumferential directions of the first annular wall in an arc shape. The water guide is used to guide the water discharged from the water divider downward along the circumference of the first annular wall.

3. The washing machine according to claim 2, characterized in that, The cleaning brush has a second annular wall at its top, which is spaced around the first annular wall. The water guide is attached to the inner wall of the second annular wall, so that the first annular wall, the second annular wall, and the water guide form a guide groove. The propulsion part is disposed on the inner wall of the second annular wall and located below the guide groove. The guide groove receives water discharged from the water outlet and impacts the propulsion part on one side in a clockwise or counterclockwise direction.

4. The washing machine according to claim 3, characterized in that, The propulsion unit includes an arc-shaped section, the inner side of which faces the outlet of the guide groove in a clockwise or counterclockwise direction. The outlet of the guide groove directs water to the inner side of the arc, thereby causing the propulsion unit to drive the cleaning brush to rotate.

5. The washing machine according to claim 3, characterized in that, The number of water guiding parts and the number of propulsion parts are both multiple. The multiple water guiding parts are arranged at intervals in the circumferential direction of the first annular wall, and the multiple propulsion parts are arranged at intervals in the circumferential direction of the second annular wall. The water guided by the multiple water guiding parts impacts the multiple propulsion parts on the same side in the clockwise or counterclockwise direction.

6. The washing machine according to claim 3, characterized in that, The cleaning brush includes a rotating shaft, a second annular wall surrounding the rotating shaft, a first annular wall forming a first rotating groove, the top end of the rotating shaft being rotatably disposed within the first rotating groove, and the two ends of the propulsion part being respectively connected to the second annular wall and the rotating shaft.

7. The washing machine according to claim 6, characterized in that, The bottom of the filter tank has a raised mounting part, and the bottom of the rotating shaft has a second rotating groove. The mounting part is disposed in the second rotating groove, and the rotating shaft can rotate relative to the mounting part.

8. A washing machine control method, said control method being based on the washing machine according to any one of claims 1-7, characterized in that, The method includes: Obtain the washing machine's drainage time; When the drainage time exceeds a first preset time, the washing machine is controlled to generate a reminder message to clean the filter immediately. When the drainage time is greater than a second preset time but less than a first preset time, the washing machine is controlled to generate a reminder message to the user to clean the filter after the next wash cycle.

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