A washing machine

Abstract

The application discloses an axial locking structure of a washing machine drum and a washing machine, which comprises a centrifugal valve installed at a drain port of the drum, a counterweight connected with a valve core of the centrifugal valve, and used for driving the valve core and opening the drain port under the centrifugal force of the drum rotation, and a centrifugal locking piece arranged on the counterweight and used for being inserted with a drum support outside the drum during the common displacement of the counterweight and the valve core and the opening of the drain port. Through the above arrangement, the centrifugal locking piece is synchronized with the centrifugal valve, the effect of the synchronous opening of the washing machine drainage and the axial locking of the drum is realized, and the drum is axially locked and positioned when the washing machine executes the high-speed rotation and drainage program, so that the drum is effectively prevented from being separated from the washing machine during the drainage process.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention belongs to the field of washing machines, specifically, it relates to an axial limiting structure for the drum of a washing machine; more particularly, it relates to an axial limiting structure for a detachable drum of a washing machine that uses the centrifugal force of the drum rotation to achieve a locking action. Background Technology

[0002] A washing machine has a drum that is fixedly installed inside the washing machine and can rotate around an axis, used to hold clothes and prepare for processing.

[0003] The drum of a conventional washing machine is typically fixed to the outer drum using screws and bolts. While this design makes the drum more secure and less prone to detachment, it also prevents users from directly removing or placing the drum, necessitating a separate clothes rack and making the process more cumbersome.

[0004] Meanwhile, the following problems also exist with the drum fixedly installed in the washing machine: The inconvenience of users in disassembling and assembling the drum makes it impossible to replace the drum; especially when users have high requirements for hygiene, multiple users corresponding to one washing machine cannot meet the requirement of using a dedicated drum to wash clothes.

[0005] This can lead to multiple users' clothes coming into contact with each other while using the same washing machine, resulting in the spread of bacteria.

[0006] In view of this, the present invention is hereby proposed. Summary of the Invention

[0007] The technical problem to be solved by the present invention is to overcome the shortcomings of the prior art and provide an axial locking structure for a washing machine drum, so as to achieve the purpose of axial locking of the drum by using the centrifugal force of the drum rotation; at the same time, the present invention also provides a washing machine to achieve the purpose of installing a detachable drum in the washing machine for users to freely remove and place.

[0008] To solve the above-mentioned technical problems, the basic concept of the technical solution adopted by the present invention is as follows: An axial locking structure for a washing machine drum includes: a centrifugal valve, which is installed at the drain outlet of the drum; a counterweight, which is connected to the valve core of the centrifugal valve and is used to drive the valve core and open the drain outlet by the centrifugal force of the drum rotation; the counterweight is provided with a centrifugal locking component, which generates a common displacement during the process of the counterweight driving the valve core and opening the drain outlet, and is inserted into the drum bracket outside the drum.

[0009] Furthermore, the counterweight is connected to the valve core of the centrifugal valve via a pry bar structure, and is used to pry the valve core and open the drain port by the centrifugal force of the rotating drum. The counterweight is equipped with a centrifugal lock, which generates a common displacement during the process of the counterweight prying the valve core and opening the drain port. It extends out from the perforation on the drum and is used to insert into the locking groove on the drum support.

[0010] Furthermore, the counterweight rotates around the fulcrum of the pry bar structure, and the end of the counterweight away from the fulcrum of the pry bar structure is provided with a centrifugal locking component extending toward the side of the drum wall.

[0011] Furthermore, the centrifugal locking component is a cylindrical shape extending along an arc, with the center of the arc serving as the fulcrum of the pry bar structure; the perforations on the drum wall are through holes with their axes extending along the same arc.

[0012] Furthermore, a sealing ring is installed on the drum wall around the perforation to seal the centrifugal locking component as it passes through the perforation.

[0013] Furthermore, the centrifugal valve includes: a valve core column, the lower end of which corresponds to the drain port on the closed drum; a valve core seat, which is installed on the drum wall, and the valve core column is axially telescopically movable on the valve core seat, with a spring clamped between the valve core seat and the valve core column to apply a spring force to the valve core column to close the drain port; a lever, which is rotatably mounted on the valve core seat in the middle about a fulcrum, with one end of the lever rotatably connected to the upper end of the valve core column and the other end connected to a counterweight; both the lever and the counterweight extend in a direction parallel to the drum axis, and the axis of rotation of the lever and the valve core seat, which can rotate relative to each other, extends in a direction tangential to the drum.

[0014] Furthermore, lifting ribs are installed on the inner side of the drum wall. The lifting ribs are hollow inside and have multiple water passage holes arranged on them to connect the internal cavity of the lifting ribs with the external internal space of the drum. The centrifugal valve, counterweight, and centrifugal lock are all located in the internal cavity of the lifting ribs.

[0015] Furthermore, the centrifugal lock, counterweight, and lever are designed as a single unit.

[0016] The present invention also discloses a washing machine, comprising: a drum; a drum bracket for placing the drum; an axial locking structure for the washing machine drum as described above is provided between the drum and the drum bracket, and a locking groove is provided on the drum bracket, so that when the drum speed reaches a set value, the counterweight of the centrifugal valve provided on the drum moves towards the outer periphery of the drum under the action of centrifugal force, prying the valve core of the centrifugal valve to open the drain outlet, and the centrifugal locking element extends outward and is inserted into the locking groove accordingly, so that the drum and the drum bracket form a locking connection in the axial direction.

[0017] Furthermore, the roller is placed directly on the roller support; the roller and the roller support are connected by a mating interlocking convex and concave structure, forming a connection that cannot rotate relative to each other in the circumferential direction; preferably, the bottom of the roller is provided with a convex and concave part that is offset from the roller axis, and the roller support is provided with a mating convex and concave part, so that when the roller is placed on the roller support, the convex and concave parts fit into contact with each other, forming an interlocking connection that can only rotate together in the circumferential direction.

[0018] Furthermore, it also includes a motor, which is mounted on the outer drum, which is supported by shock absorbers and installed in the washing machine casing; the drum bracket is connected to the motor via a drive shaft, which drives the drum bracket and the drum placed on the drum bracket to rotate together around the axis.

[0019] Compared with the prior art, the present invention has the following significant technological advancements: With the above settings, the centrifugal locking component moves synchronously with the centrifugal valve, achieving the effect of simultaneous opening of the washing machine's drainage and drum axial locking. This ensures that the drum is axially locked and positioned when the washing machine's drum rotates at high speed to execute the drainage program, effectively preventing the drum from detaching during the washing machine's spin-drying process.

[0020] At the same time, the present invention has a simple structure, significant effects, and is suitable for widespread use.

[0021] The specific embodiments of the present invention will now be described in further detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Attached Figure Description

[0022] The accompanying drawings, as part of this invention, are used to provide a further understanding of the invention. The illustrative embodiments and descriptions of the invention are used to explain the invention, but do not constitute an undue limitation of the invention. Obviously, the drawings described below are merely some embodiments, and those skilled in the art can obtain other drawings based on these drawings without creative effort. In the drawings: Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a washing machine according to an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a washing machine according to another embodiment of the present invention; Figure 3 This is the present invention. Figure 2 A magnified schematic diagram of point A when the centrifugal locking element is in the retracted state; Figure 4 This is the present invention. Figure 2 Enlarged structural diagram of point A when the centrifugal locking component is extended; Figure 5 This is the present invention. Figure 2 Enlarged schematic diagram of point A when the centrifugal valve is open; Figure 6This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a washing machine in another embodiment of the present invention; Figure 7 This is the present invention. Figure 6 Enlarged structural diagram of point B when the centrifugal locking component is in the retracted state; Figure 8 This is the present invention. Figure 6 Enlarged structural diagram of point B when the centrifugal locking component is extended; Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a washing machine in another embodiment of the present invention; Figure 10 This is the present invention. Figure 9 Enlarged structural diagram of point C when the centrifugal locking element is in the retracted state; Figure 11 This is the present invention. Figure 9 Enlarged structural diagram of point C when the centrifugal locking component is extended; Figure 12 This is another embodiment of the present invention Figure 9 An enlarged structural diagram of another structural form at point C.

[0023] In the diagram: 100, housing; 200, drum; 300, drum support; 400, outer cylinder; 500, motor; 600, support component; 700, machine door; 1, centrifugal locking component; 2, centrifugal valve; 3, locking groove; 4, spring; 5, limiting part; 6, perforation; 7, sealing ring; 8, drain outlet; 9, mounting sleeve; 10, valve core seat; 11, valve core column; 12, lever; 13, counterweight; 14, water passage hole; 15, spring; 16, drain groove; 17, drive shaft; 18, drain pipe; 1 9. Through hole; 91. Sleeve part; 92. Radial protrusion; 93. Side flange; 71. First sealing part; 72. Second sealing part; 101. First part; 102. Second part; 103. Sealing part; 201. Drum bottom; 202. Drum wall; 203. Drum opening; 204. Lifting rib; 205. Matching concave and convex parts; 301. Support groove bottom; 302. Support groove wall; 303. Concave and convex parts; 401. Outer cylinder support; 402. Elastic sleeve; 403. Elastic sealing lip.

[0024] It should be noted that these accompanying drawings and textual descriptions are not intended to limit the scope of the invention in any way, but rather to illustrate the concept of the invention to those skilled in the art by referring to specific embodiments. Detailed Implementation

[0025] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of the embodiments of the present invention clearer, the technical solutions in the embodiments will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. The following embodiments are used to illustrate the present invention, but are not intended to limit the scope of the present invention.

[0026] In the description of this invention, it should be noted that the terms "upper", "lower", "front", "rear", "left", "right", "vertical", "inner", "outer", etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They are only for the convenience of describing this invention and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limiting this invention.

[0027] In the description of this invention, it should be noted that, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," and "linking" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this invention based on the specific circumstances.

[0028] like Figures 1 to 12 As shown, this invention introduces a washing machine, comprising: a housing 100 for enclosing the outer contour of the washing machine, with an internal hollow space for mounting various components; an outer tub 400 installed inside the housing 100, having a barrel-shaped structure with one end closed as the bottom and the other end open as the opening; and a motor 500 installed on the outside of the bottom of the outer tub, with its output end connected to a drive shaft 17. The drive shaft 17 passes through the bottom of the outer tub and extends into the interior of the outer tub 400. A bearing for supporting the drive shaft is provided at the point where the drive shaft 17 passes through the bottom of the outer tub, and a bearing for supporting the drive shaft at the point where the drive shaft passes through. A dynamic seal is used for sealing; a roller support 300 is set inside the outer cylinder 400 and is coaxially arranged with the outer cylinder 400. It is rotatably mounted on the outer cylinder 400. The end of the drive shaft 17 that extends into the outer cylinder 400 is connected to the roller support 300 and is used to drive the roller support 300 to generate controllable rotation around the shaft; a roller 200 is placed on the roller support 300 and is connected by the corresponding concave and convex structures on the roller support 300 and the roller 200. This not only allows users to quickly pick up and put away the rollers, but also enables the roller 200 to rotate around the shaft together with the roller support 300.

[0029] This invention, by configuring the aforementioned drum washing machine, allows the drum 200 to be easily placed on the drum support 300, fulfilling the user's need for free replacement of the washing machine drum and allowing different users to use their own dedicated drum for washing, thus achieving a significant technological advancement in improving the washing machine's washing effect. Furthermore, since the drum 200 is merely placed on the drum support 300, the user can directly remove the drum 200, using it directly as a clothes basket for loading and unloading clothes.

[0030] In this invention, the front side of the washing machine housing 100 is provided with a clothes inlet, and a door 700 that can be opened and closed is installed on the outside of the front side of the housing 100. A sealing structure is provided at the junction of the door 700 and the clothes inlet, so that the clothes inlet is sealed when the door 700 is closed.

[0031] In this invention, the outer drum 400 includes an outer drum support 401 made of rigid material and an elastic sleeve 402 made of flexible material. The outer drum support 401 is grooved, and the grooved outer drum support 401 covers at most half the height of the drum 200. The bottom of the grooved outer drum support 401 forms the bottom of the outer drum, and a motor 500 is installed on the outside of the groove bottom. The groove of the grooved outer drum support 401 is connected to the first end of the coaxially arranged elastic sleeve 402. The second end of the elastic sleeve 402 is sealed and connected to the inner wall of the front side plate of the washing machine shell 100 surrounding the clothes inlet. Preferably, the elastic sleeve 402 and the outer drum support 401 are coaxially arranged. In this embodiment of the invention, the second end of the elastic sleeve 402 of the outer drum is provided with a radially protruding elastic sealing lip 403. The elastic sealing lip 403 is in sealing contact with the machine door 700, so that a seal is formed around the outer periphery of the clothes inlet, and a sealed water-holding space is formed inside the outer drum 400. The lowest point of the outer tub bracket 401 is connected to the drain pipe 18 of the washing machine, which is used to discharge the drainage that flows into the outer tub 400 of the washing machine.

[0032] Meanwhile, in this invention, the outer drum 400 is configured such that its axis gradually tilts upwards from back to front, ensuring that most of the water inside the outer drum 400 is located at the outer drum support 401, thereby reducing the stress on the elastic sleeve 402 and improving the strength and lifespan of the outer drum 400; the axis of the outer drum 400 of the washing machine has a certain angle α with the horizontal plane, 10°≤a≤60°; preferably, 25°≤a≤45°.

[0033] In this invention, the outer tub bracket 401 of the outer tub 400 is connected to the washing machine housing 100 via an elastic support member 600, so that the outer tub 400 can be installed in the washing machine housing 100 with buffer and shock absorption under the action of the elastic support member 600; preferably, the lower side of the outer tub bracket 401 is connected to the upper end of the vertically extending elastic support member 600, and the lower end of the elastic support member 600 is connected to the bottom of the housing 100. The elastic support member 600 can be any existing component that can produce axial elastic deformation, such as a spring, hydraulic rod, or pneumatic rod; more preferably, the left and right sides of the outer tub bracket 401 are respectively connected to the bottom of the outer casing 100 via at least one elastic support member 600, and the elastic support members 600 on the left and right sides are symmetrically arranged relative to the axis of the outer tub 400.

[0034] In this invention, the washing machine drum support 300 is configured as a groove, coaxially disposed within the outer drum support 401. A certain distance is maintained between the support groove wall 302 on the outer periphery of the drum support 300 and the side wall of the outer drum support 401. A distance is also maintained between the support groove bottom 301 of the drum support 300 and the groove bottom of the outer drum support 401, and the center of the support groove bottom 301 of the drum support 300 is fixedly connected to the end of the drive shaft 17 that extends into the outer drum 400. Preferably, the axial height of the drum support 300 is lower than that of the outer drum support 401, so that the drum support 300 is entirely within the outer drum support 401. More preferably, the outer side wall of the drum 200 and the inner side wall of the grooved drum support 300 are coaxially arranged with the same diameter to reduce relative sway between them.

[0035] In this invention, the inner wall of the grooved roller support 300 is provided with concave and convex portions 303, at least a portion of which is staggered with the axis of the roller 200; the roller 200 is provided with mating concave and convex portions 205, the roller 200 is placed on the roller support 300, and the concave and convex portions 303 are inserted into the corresponding mating concave and convex portions 205, so as to realize the insertion connection between the roller 200 and the roller support 300 and the relative locking in the circumferential direction, so that the roller 200 and the roller support 300 can rotate together around the axis under the action of the concave and convex structure.

[0036] Preferred, such as Figures 1 to 12 As shown, an inwardly protruding concave-convex part 303 is provided at the center of the support groove bottom 301 of the roller support 300. The concave-convex part 303 has a radially protruding part, which is eccentrically arranged with the axis of the roller 200. This achieves at least a partial eccentric arrangement of the concave-convex part 303 with the axis of the roller 300, ensuring circumferential positioning between the roller 200 and the roller support 300, allowing them to rotate together around the axis. More preferably, the concave-convex part 303 is configured as an asymmetrical structure relative to the axis of the roller 200, making the concave-convex part 303 a positioning component, so that the roller 200 can only be inserted and placed on the roller support 300 in a specific orientation, thereby ensuring that the centrifugal locking component and the locking groove can be inserted and are relatively coaxially opened.

[0037] Because the washing machine in this invention uses a concave-convex structure between the drum 200 and the drum support 300 to achieve a common rotational connection, the drum 200 is not restricted axially by external forces. This can lead to axial displacement of the drum 200, or even the drum detaching from the drum support 300. In contrast, existing washing machines, when performing washing programs with lower drum speeds, can limit the axial direction of the drum 200 and prevent axial displacement due to the weight of the clothes and water inside. However, when performing spin-drying programs with higher drum speeds, the higher speed generates stronger centrifugal force, which can cause the drum 200 to be thrown out or detach from the drum support 300.

[0038] In this embodiment of the invention, in order to avoid the above-mentioned problems, an axial limiting structure is added to the roller 200 to apply axial locking to the roller 200, so that the roller 200 will not move in the axial direction, thereby preventing the roller 200 from detaching from the roller support 300.

[0039] Meanwhile, to facilitate the user's disassembly and assembly of the roller 200, the axial limiting structure uses the centrifugal force of the roller 200's rotation as the driving force. When the roller 200's rotation speed is low or it is stationary, the axial limiting structure does not act on the roller 200, making it convenient for the user to pick up and put down the roller 200. However, when the roller 200's rotation speed is high, the axial limiting structure acts on the roller 200 under the action of centrifugal force, locking the roller 200 in the axial direction and preventing the roller 200 from shifting or even coming off.

[0040] Furthermore, to prevent the washing water in different drums 200 from flowing between each other, the drum 200 in this invention is a non-perforated drum 200 without a normally open water passage, as detailed below: like Figures 1 to 12As shown, the drum 200 has a drum opening 203 at one end and a closed drum bottom 201 at the other end, with the two ends connected by a cylindrical drum wall 202. The drum 200 has no normally open holes except for the drum opening 203, which is used to make the drum 200 a container for holding water. Preferably, the drum wall 202 has a drain outlet 8 that passes through both sides. The drain outlet 8 on the drum 200 has a centrifugal valve 2, so that when the drum 200 rotates at low speed and the washing machine performs washing programs, the centrifugal valve 2 closes the drain outlet 8, and the drum 200 forms a water container. When the drum 200 rotates at high speed and the washing machine performs spin-drying programs, the centrifugal valve 2 opens the drain outlet 8, and the water in the drum 200 is driven by centrifugal force to be discharged from the drain outlet 8 into the outer drum 400. This prevents cross-flow of water between the drum 200 and the outer drum 400, eliminating the situation where water in different drums 200 comes into contact with the outer drum 400, thus avoiding indirect cross-flow between different drums 200 and further improving the washing effect of the washing machine. Example

[0041] like Figure 1 As shown in the figure, this embodiment introduces a washing machine, which includes: a drum 200 for holding clothes; a drum support 300, which is rotatable around an axis and disposed inside the washing machine for placing the drum 200; and a centrifugal locking member 1, which is installed on the drum 200 and is used to extend radially to be inserted into the drum support 300 under the action of centrifugal force when the speed of the drum 1 exceeds a set value.

[0042] With the above settings, the centrifugal lock will automatically extend when the washing machine drum rotates at a high speed, so as to achieve the function of axial locking between the drum and the drum support when the washing machine performs high-speed spin-drying and other programs; at the same time, the centrifugal force generated by the drum rotation speed is used to control the centrifugal lock accordingly, which not only saves costs but also improves control accuracy.

[0043] In this embodiment, the centrifugal locking member 1 extends radially along the drum 200 and is installed on the drum wall 202 that can extend outward; an elastic member is clamped between the centrifugal locking member 1 and the drum wall 202 to apply a stop force to the centrifugal locking member 1 to keep it in the non-extended position.

[0044] In this embodiment, the centrifugal lock 1 is made of a relatively heavy metal material or has a counterweight made of a metal material separately provided on it, in order to increase the mass of the centrifugal lock 1 and increase the centrifugal force it receives, thereby ensuring the accuracy of the centrifugal lock 1 driven by the centrifugal force.

[0045] like Figure 1As shown, in this embodiment, the centrifugal locking component 1 is a rod-shaped main body extending radially along the drum. One end of the rod-shaped main body facing the inside of the drum 200 is provided with a radially protruding limiting part 5. A spring 4 is sleeved on the outer periphery of the rod-shaped main body. The two ends of the spring 4 are respectively connected to the limiting part 5 and the inner wall of the drum 200, which is used to keep the spring 4 applying a stopping force to the centrifugal locking component 1 and keep the centrifugal locking component 1 in a state where it does not extend outward.

[0046] In this embodiment, the drum wall 202 is provided with a through hole 6, which penetrates the drum wall 202. One end of the rod-shaped centrifugal locking member 1 is inserted into the through hole 6, and the other end is provided with a limiting part 5. The spring 4 is sleeved on the outer periphery of the rod-shaped centrifugal locking member 1. The two ends of the spring 4 abut against the limiting part 5 and the inner wall of the drum 200, respectively, so that the spring 4 is clamped between the centrifugal locking member 1 and the drum 200. The spring 4 applies elastic force to the centrifugal locking member 1 to keep the centrifugal locking member 1 in a state where it does not extend outward.

[0047] In this embodiment, the roller support 300 is provided with a locking groove 3 for insertion into the centrifugal locking member 1, which extends under centrifugal force. Preferably, the locking groove 3 and the centrifugal locking member 1 are located in the same radial section and in the same radial orientation of the roller 200. In this embodiment, the roller support 300 and the roller 200 can form a circumferentially fixed relative insertion through a concave-convex structure. The roller support 300 is provided with an insertion groove 3 of the same radial dimension as the centrifugal locking member 1 at a designated position for insertion. Preferably, the locking groove 3 is a tapered open groove with a radial dimension that gradually narrows from the opening inward, so that the centrifugal locking member 1 can be inserted into the locking groove 3 accordingly.

[0048] Of course, the locking groove 3 mentioned above can also be set as a locking hole that penetrates the roller support 300, which can also achieve the effect of inserting the centrifugal locking piece 1, so that the roller 200 and the roller support 300 form a locking connection (not shown in the attached figure).

[0049] like Figure 1 As shown, in this embodiment, the centrifugal locking component 1 is disposed on the drum wall 202, near the drum bottom 201, so as to be as close as possible to the relative drive shaft 17, thereby improving the positioning and locking effect of the centrifugal locking component 1; the locking groove 3 is disposed on the inner circumferential side of the support groove wall 302 of the drum support 300, for the coaxially disposed centrifugal locking component 1 to be inserted accordingly.

[0050] In this embodiment, in order to ensure the sealing of the drum, a sealing ring 7 can be provided at the junction of the centrifugal locking component 1 and the perforation 6, so that the centrifugal locking component 1 can achieve a sealing and water-proof effect when passing through the drum.

[0051] like Figure 1As shown, when the washing machine is in a low-speed state such as non-working or washing, the centrifugal lock 1 is kept in a non-extended state by the force of the spring 4. The end of the centrifugal lock 1 is inserted into the through hole 6 and does not protrude outward. The centrifugal lock 1 is separated from the locking groove 3. There is no limit between the drum 200 and the drum bracket 300 in the axial direction, and the user can freely remove the drum 200.

[0052] When the washing machine is in a high-speed state such as spin-drying, the centrifugal locking component 1 is driven by the centrifugal force generated by the high-speed rotating drum 200 to overcome the elastic force of the spring 4 and extend outward. The end of the centrifugal locking component 1 passes through the through hole 6 and protrudes outward to insert into the locking groove 3. The centrifugal locking component 1 and the locking groove 3 are connected. In the axial direction, the drum 200 and the drum support 300 are limited by the extended centrifugal locking component 1 and cannot be displaced. This effectively avoids the drum 200 from moving relative to the drum support 300 or even detaching. Example

[0053] like Figures 2 to 5 As shown in the figure, this embodiment introduces a washing machine, which includes a drum 200 for holding clothes; the drum wall 202 is provided with a lifting rib 204 that protrudes radially into the drum; the lifting rib 204 is hollow inside, and a centrifugal locking component 1 is installed in the hollow part; the centrifugal locking component 1 is inserted into the through hole 6 provided on the drum wall 202 and is held in the contracted position by the action of the elastic element, so that after the drum 200 speed reaches the set value n1, it is subjected to centrifugal force to overcome the elastic force, extends to the outside of the drum 200 and locks in the locking groove 3 provided on the drum bracket 300.

[0054] In this embodiment, the lifting rib 204 is a shell structure with one side open and the inside forming a cavity; the open side of the lifting rib 204 is correspondingly fastened to the inner side of the roller wall 202, and the roller wall 202 at the fastening point of the lifting rib 204 is provided with a through hole 6, which penetrates the roller wall 202 and connects the outside of the roller 200 and the inner cavity of the lifting rib 204.

[0055] Preferably, in order to improve the strength of the lifting rib 204, an installation plate can be added between the lifting rib 204 and the drum wall 202. The open side of the lifting rib 204 is correspondingly fastened to the installation plate, and the installation plate is installed on the drum wall 202 (not shown in the attached drawings).

[0056] like Figures 2 to 5 As shown, in this embodiment, the centrifugal locking member 1 is cylindrical, and the cylindrical centrifugal locking member 1 extends radially into the perforation 6 along the drum 200; a spring 4 is clamped between the centrifugal locking member 1 and the drum wall 202, and the spring 4 applies elastic force to the centrifugal locking member 1 to keep the end of the centrifugal locking member 1 in a retracted state that extends at most into the perforation 6 and does not protrude outward from the drum 200 (e.g., Figure 3 (As shown).

[0057] In this embodiment, an installation sleeve 9 is installed on the drum wall 202. The installation sleeve 9 has a channel coaxially opened with the perforation 6. The columnar centrifugal locking member 1 is coaxially inserted into the channel of the installation sleeve 9.

[0058] like Figures 2 to 5 As shown, in this embodiment, the mounting sleeve 9 includes a sleeve portion 91 that forms a channel and extends radially along the roller 200. One end of the sleeve portion 91 is provided with a radially outward protruding, annular radial protrusion 92, which corresponds to and fits in contact with the roller wall 202 surrounding the perforation 6. At least one sealing ring 7 is sandwiched between the radial protrusion 92 and the roller wall 202. Preferably, the sealing ring 7 is divided into a first sealing portion 71 that is annular and located between the radial protrusion 92 and the roller wall 202, and a second sealing portion 72 that is cylindrical and located between the columnar centrifugal locking member 1 and the inner wall of the channel of the mounting sleeve 9.

[0059] To achieve a seal at the point where the centrifugal locking element 1 protrudes, the following configuration can also be made: the outer radial dimension of the columnar centrifugal locking element 1 is equal to or slightly larger than the inner radial dimension of the channel provided on the mounting sleeve 9, so as to form a sealed contact at the junction of the columnar centrifugal locking element 1 and the mounting sleeve 9 (not shown in the attached drawings).

[0060] like Figures 2 to 5 As shown, in this embodiment, one end of the columnar centrifugal locking member 1 is inserted into the central channel surrounded by the sleeve portion 91, and the other end protrudes from the outside of the mounting sleeve 9 and the hollow cavity of the lifting rib 204; the protruding end of the columnar centrifugal locking member 1 is provided with a radially protruding limiting part 5, and a spring 4 is held between the limiting part 5 of the centrifugal locking member 1 and the radially protruding part 92 of the mounting sleeve 9, and the spring 4 is coaxially sleeved on the outer periphery of the columnar centrifugal locking member 1 and the sleeve portion 91.

[0061] In this embodiment, the outer periphery of the radial protrusion 92 of the mounting sleeve 9 is provided with an upwardly bent, cylindrical retaining edge 93. An annular groove is formed between the retaining edge 93 and the outer wall of the sleeve 91. The end of the spring 4 is located in the annular groove to achieve the effect of inserting and fixing the end of the spring 4.

[0062] In this embodiment, a centrifugal valve 2 is also provided inside the lifting rib 204. This valve is used to open the drain outlet 8 on the drum wall 202 under centrifugal force after the drum 200 reaches a set rotational speed n2. The set rotational speed n1 of the drum 200 is less than or equal to n2. This ensures that when the washing machine performs spin-drying or other programs with the drum 200 rotating at a higher speed, the drum 200 and drum support 300 are axially locked before the centrifugal valve 2 at the drain outlet 8 is opened. This prevents axial displacement or separation between the drum 200 and the drum support 300 during spin-drying or other processes. Simultaneously, to ensure smooth drainage from the drain outlet 8, a through hole 19 is provided on the drum support 300. The through hole 19 is coaxially opposite to the drain outlet 8, and its diameter is greater than or equal to that of the drain outlet 8. This allows the drainage water from the drum 200 to flow sequentially through the drain outlet and through hole 19 into the outer drum 400.

[0063] like Figures 2 to 5 As shown, in this embodiment, the centrifugal valve 2 can adopt the following structure: the centrifugal valve 2 includes a valve core column 11, the lower end of which corresponds to the drain port 8 on the closed drum 200; a valve core seat 10, which is installed on the drum wall 202, and the valve core column 11 is axially telescopically movable on the valve core seat 10, with a spring 15 clamped between the valve core seat 10 and the valve core column 11 for applying a spring force to the valve core column 11 to close the drain port 8; a lever 12, which is rotatably mounted on the valve core seat 10 around the fulcrum, one end of the lever 12 is rotatably connected to the upper end of the valve core column 11, and the other end is connected to the counterweight 13; the lever 12 and the counterweight 13 both extend in a direction parallel to the axis of the drum 200, and the axis of the rotating shaft of the lever 12 and the valve core seat 10 that can rotate relative to each other extends in a tangential direction to the drum wall 202.

[0064] In this embodiment, the lifting rib 204 is provided with a plurality of water passage holes 14. The water passage holes 14 connect the internal cavity of the lifting rib 204 and the internal space of the external roller 200, and are used to guide the water in the roller 200 into the interior of the lifting rib 204, thereby achieving the effect of draining the water stored in the roller 200 by using the drain outlet 8 provided inside the lifting rib 204.

[0065] like Figure 3 As shown, when the washing machine is in a low-speed state such as non-working or washing, the centrifugal lock 1 is kept in a non-extended state by the force of the spring 4. The end of the centrifugal lock 1 is inserted into the through hole 6 and does not protrude outward. The centrifugal lock 1 is separated from the locking groove 3. There is no limit between the drum 200 and the drum bracket 300 in the axial direction, and the user can freely remove the drum 200. At the same time, the valve core column 11 of the centrifugal valve 2 corresponds to the closed drain port 8 provided on the drum 200. The drum 200 forms a water container. During the rotation of the drum 200, the water carried inside is used to process the load such as clothes.

[0066] When the washing machine is in a high-speed spin cycle, such as during the spin-drying process... like Figure 4 As shown, the drum first rotates at a set value n1. The centrifugal locking component 1 is driven by the centrifugal force generated by the high-speed rotating drum 200 to overcome the elastic force of the spring 4 and extend outward. The end of the centrifugal locking component 1 passes through the through hole 6 and protrudes outward to insert into the locking groove 3. The centrifugal locking component 1 and the locking groove 3 are connected. In the axial direction, the drum 200 and the drum support 300 are limited by the extended centrifugal locking component 1, and no relative displacement can be generated. This effectively avoids the drum moving relative to the drum support or even detaching. At the same time, the valve core column 11 of the centrifugal valve 2 remains at the drain port 8 provided on the corresponding closed drum 200. like Figure 5 As shown, the drum 200 rotates again at the set value n2. The centrifugal locking piece 1 is kept in the extended state by the centrifugal force generated by the high-speed rotating drum 200 and is still inserted into the locking groove 3. At the same time, the counterweight 13 of the centrifugal valve 2 is displaced outward by the centrifugal force to overcome the elastic force of the spring 15 on the centrifugal valve 2. The valve core column 11 of the centrifugal valve 2 is pried open by the lever structure, and the water stored in the drum 200 flows outward through the opened drain port 8. Example

[0067] like Figures 6 to 8 As shown, this embodiment introduces an axial locking structure for a washing machine drum, which includes: a centrifugal valve 2, which is installed at the drain outlet 8 of the drum; a counterweight 13, which is connected to the valve core column 11 of the centrifugal valve 2 via a pry bar structure, and is used to pry the valve core column 11 and open the drain outlet 8 by the centrifugal force of the rotating drum 200; the counterweight 13 is provided with a centrifugal locking component 1, which generates a common displacement during the process of the counterweight 13 prying the valve core column 11 and opening the drain outlet 8, and extends from the through hole 6 provided on the drum 200 to the outside of the drum 200, and is used to insert into the locking groove 3 provided on the drum bracket 300.

[0068] With the above settings, the centrifugal locking component moves synchronously with the centrifugal valve, achieving the effect of simultaneous opening of the washing machine's drainage and drum axial locking. This ensures that the drum is axially locked and positioned when the washing machine's drum rotates at high speed to execute the drainage program, effectively preventing the drum from detaching during the washing machine's spin-drying process.

[0069] In this embodiment, the counterweight 13 rotates around the fulcrum of the pry bar structure, and the end of the counterweight 13 away from the fulcrum of the pry bar structure is provided with a centrifugal locking member 1 protruding toward the drum wall 202.

[0070] Preferably, in this embodiment, the centrifugal locking component 1 is a cylindrical shape extending along an arc, with the center of the arc serving as the fulcrum of the pry bar structure, so that the centrifugal locking component 1 can operate in conjunction with the pry bar structure and extend or retract from the corresponding perforation 6; the perforation 6 provided on the drum wall 202 is a through hole with its axis extending along the same arc, used to cooperate with the centrifugal locking component 1 to extend and retract (not shown in the drawings).

[0071] like Figures 6 to 8 As shown, in this embodiment, a sealing ring 7 is installed on the drum wall 202 surrounding the perforation 6 to seal the centrifugal locking component 1 passing through the perforation 6; the first end of the sealing ring 7 is freely set so that the centrifugal locking component 1 passes through accordingly, and the second end is fixedly installed on the drum wall 202 surrounding the perforation 6.

[0072] Preferably, the sealing ring 7 is corrugated. The first end of the corrugated sealing ring 7 is sleeved and fixed on the centrifugal lock 1, and the second end of the corrugated sealing ring 7 is fixedly installed on the drum wall 202 around the perforation 6. The first end of the corrugated sealing ring 7 moves together with the centrifugal lock 1, and the corrugated shape of the corrugated sealing ring 7 generates expansion and contraction deformation to achieve the effect of real-time sealing of the gap between the centrifugal lock 1 and the perforation 6 (not shown in the attached drawings).

[0073] like Figures 6 to 8 As shown, in this embodiment, the centrifugal valve 2 includes: a valve core column 11, the lower end of which corresponds to the drain port 8 on the closed drum 200; a valve core seat 10, which is installed on the drum wall 202, the valve core column 11 is axially telescopically movable on the valve core seat 10, and a spring 15 is held between the valve core seat 10 and the valve core column 11 to apply a spring force to the valve core column 11 to close the drain port 8; a lever 12, which is rotatably mounted on the valve core seat 10 around the fulcrum, one end of the lever 12 is rotatably connected to the upper end of the valve core column 11, and the other end is connected to the counterweight 13; the lever 12 and the counterweight 13 both extend in a direction parallel to the axis of the drum 200, and the axis of the rotating shaft of the lever 12 and the valve core seat 10 that can rotate relative to each other extends in a tangential direction to the drum wall 202.

[0074] In this embodiment, a lifting rib 204 is installed on the inner side of the drum wall 202. The lifting rib 204 is hollow inside. The centrifugal valve 2, counterweight 13, centrifugal lock 1 and other components are all located in the internal cavity of the lifting rib 204. Multiple water passage holes 14 are arranged on the lifting rib 204 to connect the internal cavity of the lifting rib 204 with the internal space of the drum 200 outside.

[0075] In this embodiment, the centrifugal lock 1, the counterweight 13, and the lever 12 are integrated into one piece to improve structural strength and reduce the number of parts.

[0076] like Figure 7As shown, when the washing machine is in a low-speed state such as non-working or washing, the valve core 11 of the centrifugal valve 2 is held at the position of the drain outlet 8 provided on the closed drum 200 by the force of the spring 15; the counterweight 13 is pulled away from the drum wall 202 by the valve core 11; the end of the centrifugal locking member 1 provided on the counterweight 13 is inserted into the through hole 6 and does not protrude outward, the centrifugal locking member 1 is separated from the locking groove 3, and there is no limit between the drum 200 and the drum bracket 300 in the axial direction, so the user can remove the drum freely; at the same time, the valve core 11 of the centrifugal valve 2 corresponds to the drain outlet 8 provided on the closed drum 200, and the drum 200 forms a water container. During the rotation of the drum 200, the water carried inside is used to process the load such as clothes.

[0077] like Figure 8 As shown, when the washing machine is in a high-speed state such as spin-drying, the drum 200 rotates at a speed greater than or equal to the set value. The counterweight 13 of the centrifugal valve 2 is subjected to centrifugal force and overcomes the elastic force of the spring 15 on the centrifugal valve 2, resulting in a radial outward displacement towards the drum 200. The valve core 11 of the centrifugal valve 2 is pried up by the lever structure, opening the drain port 8. The water stored in the drum 200 flows outward through the opened drain port 8. At the same time, the centrifugal locking member 1 extends outward synchronously with the counterweight 13. The end of the centrifugal locking member 1 passes through the through hole 6 and protrudes outward to insert into the locking groove 3. The centrifugal locking member 1 and the locking groove 3 are connected. In the axial direction, the drum 200 and the drum support 300 are limited by the extended centrifugal locking member 1, and no relative displacement can occur. This effectively avoids the drum 200 from moving relative to the drum support 300 or even detaching. Example

[0078] like Figures 9 to 12 As shown in the figure, this embodiment introduces a washing machine, which includes: a drum 200; a drum support 300, on which the drum 200 is placed; a centrifugal locking component 1 is installed on the drum 200, and a spring 4 is provided between the centrifugal locking component 1 and the drum 200 to keep the centrifugal locking component 1 in a closed perforation 6; after the drum 200 reaches a set value n1, the centrifugal locking component 1 extends out to open the perforation 6 under the action of centrifugal force, and the water in the drum 200 is discharged out along the perforation 6 and the drain groove 16 provided on the drum support 300; after the drum 200 reaches a set value n2, the centrifugal locking component 1 extends out to engage with the locking groove 3 provided on the drum support 300 under the action of centrifugal force, for locking the drum 200 and the drum support 300 relative to each other in the axial direction.

[0079] In this embodiment, the centrifugal locking member 1 is cylindrical and extends radially along the drum; the end of the cylindrical centrifugal locking member 1 passes through the perforation 6 provided on the drum wall 202; the protruding end of the cylindrical centrifugal locking member 1 is located on the outside of the drum, and the protruding end is provided with a radially protruding sealing part 103, which is in sealing contact with the outer wall of the drum wall 202 surrounding the perforation 6.

[0080] Through the above settings, the centrifugal lock automatically extends when the washing machine drum rotates at a high speed, thereby achieving the function of axial relative locking between the drum and the drum support when the washing machine performs high-speed spin-drying programs. At the same time, the centrifugal force generated by the drum rotation speed is used to control the centrifugal lock, which not only saves costs but also improves control accuracy. Furthermore, when the centrifugal lock extends under the action of centrifugal force, it automatically connects the perforation of the drum with the drain channel, so that the centrifugal lock also constitutes the drain control valve of the drum, realizing the effect of controlling the opening and closing of the drain water flow of the drum by the centrifugal lock, thereby achieving the function of simultaneous execution of axial locking and draining of the drum.

[0081] In this embodiment, the sealing part 103 can be entirely made of rubber material capable of elastic deformation, so that the sealing part can directly achieve contact sealing by its own elastic deformation; preferably, such as Figure 12 As shown, the centrifugal locking component 1 consists of two parts, namely a first part 101 and a second part 102. The lower end of the second part 102 is provided with a radially protruding ring, which forms a sealing part 103. The second part 102 is entirely made of rubber. The upper end of the second part 102 is inserted into the insertion hole provided at the lower end of the first part 101, and the first part 101 and the second part 102 are connected by thread engagement, so as to achieve the purpose of fixing the first part 101 and the second part 102 to form the centrifugal locking component 1. Or, such as Figures 9 to 12 As shown, the sealing part 103 is provided with at least one rubber sealing ring 7. The rubber sealing ring 7 is located on the side where the sealing part 103 meets the outer wall of the roller wall 202 around the perforation 6, so as to seal the connection between the sealing part 103 and the roller wall 202.

[0082] like Figures 9 to 12 As shown, in this embodiment, at least a portion of the cylindrical centrifugal locking member 1 is located inside the drum 200, and one end of the cylindrical centrifugal locking member 1 located inside the drum 200 is provided with a radially protruding limiting part 5; a spring 4 is sleeved on the outer periphery of the cylindrical centrifugal locking member 1, and the spring 4 is clamped between the limiting part 5 and the inner wall of the drum wall 202 surrounding the perforation 6.

[0083] In this embodiment, the mounting sleeve 9 is located on the inner side of the drum wall 200, and the mounting sleeve 9 is provided with a channel coaxially arranged with the through hole 6; the cylindrical centrifugal locking member 1 is inserted into the channel surrounded by the mounting sleeve 9, and passes through the channel and the through hole 6 in sequence. The two ends of the centrifugal locking member 1 protrude from the through hole 6 on the outer side of the drum 200 and protrude from the mounting sleeve 9 on the inner side of the drum 200, respectively.

[0084] In this embodiment, the mounting sleeve 9 includes a sleeve portion 91 that is fitted around the outer periphery of the cylindrical centrifugal lock member 1; one end of the sleeve portion 91 is provided with a radially protruding, annular radial protrusion 92, one side of the radial protrusion 92 is in contact with and fixedly connected to the inner side of the drum wall 200; the outer periphery of the radial protrusion 92 is provided with an upwardly bent, cylindrical retaining edge portion 93, and the gap between the retaining edge portion 93 and the sleeve portion 91 forms a mounting groove for the end of the spring 4 to be inserted for installation.

[0085] like Figures 9 to 12 As shown, in this embodiment, the roller support 300 is provided with a drainage groove 16, which is opened towards the roller 200. The drainage groove 16 extends along the axial direction of the roller 200, and at least part of the drainage groove 16 is in communication with the through hole 6 provided on the roller 200. The bottom of the drainage groove 16 is provided with a radially outward recessed locking groove 3 for the centrifugal locking member 1 to be inserted accordingly. The locking groove 3 is also located opposite the through hole 6, so as to realize that the locking groove 3 and the through hole 6 are coaxially arranged and for the centrifugal locking member 1 to be inserted accordingly.

[0086] In this embodiment, the depth of the drain groove 3 is greater than the thickness of the sealing part 103 of the centrifugal lock 1, so that the drum 200 can still drain water when the extended centrifugal lock 1 is in a non-axial locking position (the centrifugal lock 1 is not inserted into the locking groove). This allows the user to disassemble and install the drum 200 while it is draining, thus enriching the usage scenarios. At the same time, the depth of the locking groove 3 is greater than or equal to the thickness of the sealing part 103 of the centrifugal lock 1, so as to ensure the stability of the relative locking between the centrifugal lock 1 and the locking groove 3.

[0087] In this embodiment, a drainage groove 16 is provided on the inner wall of the drum support 300. The drainage groove 16 extends along the axial direction of the drum 200. One end is located at the through hole 6 of the drum 200 and is closed. The other end extends to the bottom 201 of the drum and is open to connect with the outer drum 400 of the washing machine. This allows the drainage water flowing out of the washing machine drum 200 to flow along the drainage groove 16 to the bottom of the outer drum 400 of the washing machine, thus achieving the effect of draining the washing machine.

[0088] In this embodiment, a lifting rib 204 is installed on the inner wall of the drum 200. The centrifugal locking component 1 is located in the hollow cavity inside the lifting rib 204. Multiple water passage holes 14 are provided on the lifting rib 204 to connect the inner cavity of the lifting rib 204 with the outer inner space of the drum 200.

[0089] In this embodiment, the drum bracket 300 is rotatably mounted inside the outer drum 400 of the washing machine; a motor 500 is provided on the outer side of the bottom of the outer drum 400, and the output end of the motor 500 is connected to the drum bracket 300 via the transmission shaft 17 to drive the drum bracket 300 to rotate around the shaft; the open end of the drain trough 16 is located between the bottom of the drum 201 and the bottom of the outer drum 400, guiding the drainage water from the drum 200 to the outer drum 400 and discharging it through the drain pipe 18 connected to the bottom of the outer drum 400.

[0090] The above description is merely a preferred embodiment of the present invention and is not intended to limit the present invention in any way. Although the present invention has been disclosed above with reference to preferred embodiments, it is not intended to limit the present invention. Any person skilled in the art can make some modifications or alterations to the above-described technical content to create equivalent embodiments without departing from the scope of the present invention. The implementation schemes in the above embodiments can be further combined or replaced. Any simple modifications, equivalent changes and alterations made to the above embodiments based on the technical essence of the present invention without departing from the scope of the present invention shall still fall within the scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. A washing machine, comprising: roller; Roller support for placing rollers; An axial locking structure for the washing machine drum is provided between the drum and the drum support; The axial locking structure includes: a centrifugal valve, installed at the drain outlet of the drum; a counterweight connected to the valve core of the centrifugal valve, used to drive the valve core and open the drain outlet under the centrifugal force of the drum rotation; a centrifugal locking component on the counterweight, which undergoes a common displacement during the process of the counterweight driving the valve core and opening the drain outlet, and is inserted into the drum support outside the drum; the counterweight connected to the valve core column of the centrifugal valve via a pry bar structure, used to pry the valve core column and open the drain outlet under the centrifugal force of the drum rotation; the centrifugal locking component undergoes a common displacement during the process of the counterweight prying the valve core column and opening the drain outlet, extends from a through hole on the drum, and is used to engage with the centrifugal locking component on the drum support. The locking grooves are designed for interlocking; the counterweight rotates around the fulcrum of the pry bar structure, and the end of the counterweight away from the fulcrum of the pry bar structure is provided with a centrifugal locking component extending towards the drum wall; the centrifugal locking component is a cylindrical shape extending along an arc, and the center of the arc is the fulcrum of the pry bar structure; the through hole provided on the drum wall is a through hole with the axis extending along the same arc; the drum support is provided with a locking groove, which is used to pry open the drain outlet of the centrifugal valve provided on the drum by the centrifugal force when the drum speed reaches the set value, and the centrifugal locking component extends outward and inserts into the corresponding locking groove, so that the drum and the drum support form a locking interlock in the axial direction.

2. A washing machine according to claim 1, characterized in that, A sealing ring is installed on the outer wall of the drum around the perforation to seal the centrifugal locking parts as they pass through the perforation.

3. A washing machine according to claim 1, characterized in that, The centrifugal valve includes: a valve core column, the lower end of which corresponds to the drain port on the closed drum; a valve core seat, which is installed on the drum wall, and the valve core column is axially telescopically movable on the valve core seat. A spring is held between the valve core seat and the valve core column to apply a spring force to the valve core column to close the drain port; and a lever, which is rotatably mounted on the valve core seat in the middle about a fulcrum. One end of the lever is rotatably connected to the upper end of the valve core column, and the other end is connected to a counterweight. Both the lever and the counterweight extend parallel to the drum axis, and the axis of rotation of the lever and the valve core seat, which can rotate relative to each other, extends tangentially to the drum.

4. A washing machine according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, Lifting ribs are installed on the inner side of the drum wall. The lifting ribs are hollow inside and have multiple water passage holes arranged on them to connect the internal cavity of the lifting ribs with the external internal space of the drum. The centrifugal valve, counterweight, and centrifugal lock are all located in the internal cavity of the lifting ribs.

5. A washing machine according to claim 4, characterized in that, The centrifugal lock, counterweight, and lever are integrated into one unit.

6. A washing machine according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, The roller is placed directly on the roller support; the roller and the roller support are connected by a mating interlocking convex and concave structure, forming a connection that prevents relative circumferential rotation.

7. A washing machine according to claim 6, characterized in that, The bottom of the roller has at least a portion of a concave-convex part offset from the roller axis, and the roller support has a matching concave-convex part, so that when the roller is placed on the roller support, the concave-convex part and the matching concave-convex part fit together and contact to form an insertion that can only rotate together in the circumferential direction.

8. A washing machine according to claim 6, characterized in that, It also includes a motor, which is mounted on the outer drum, which is supported by shock absorbers and installed in the washing machine casing; The roller support is connected to the motor via a drive shaft, which drives the roller support and the roller placed on the roller support to rotate around the axis together.

Images