End cap assembly, scale inhibition module, laundry treating apparatus

Abstract

The application discloses an end cover assembly, a scale inhibition module and a clothes processing device. The end cover assembly comprises a cover body, the cover body is suitable for cooperating with the scale inhibition module, a connecting piece is provided with a cover body connecting part cooperating with the cover body and a filter screen mounting groove cooperating with a mesh structure, and the mesh structure is provided with an end part accommodated in the filter screen mounting groove. According to the end cover assembly, the connecting piece is arranged at the end part of the mesh structure, the end part of the mesh structure is not contacted by the lint, the washing water containing the lint is contacted with the connecting piece, the connecting piece is conveniently cleaned, and the lint is not easily remained.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of garment processing equipment, and in particular to an end cap assembly, a scale inhibitor module, and garment processing equipment. Background Technology

[0002] Washing machines are usually equipped with filters, and the filters have end cap assemblies that make it easy to open and close the internal cavity of the filter. In the existing filter design, the end of the filter screen is matched with the end cap assembly. When washing water containing lint flows through the end of the filter screen, the lint is easy to remain on the end cap assembly and the end of the filter screen. Even after cleaning with water, dirt will still accumulate on the end of the filter screen, resulting in poor cleaning effect. Summary of the Invention

[0003] The present invention aims to at least solve one of the technical problems existing in the prior art. Therefore, one object of the present invention is to provide an end cap assembly. According to the end cap assembly of the present invention, the connector is disposed at the end of the mesh structure, preventing lint from contacting the end of the mesh structure, and the washing water containing lint comes into contact with the connector, making cleaning the connector convenient and preventing lint residue.

[0004] The present invention also proposes a scale inhibitor module having the above-described end cap assembly.

[0005] The present invention also proposes a garment treatment device having the above-mentioned scale inhibition module.

[0006] The end cap assembly according to the present invention includes: a cap body adapted to cooperate with a scale inhibition module; a connector having a cap body connecting portion that cooperates with the cap body and a filter screen mounting groove that cooperates with a mesh structure; and a mesh structure having an end portion received within the filter screen mounting groove.

[0007] In the end cap assembly of the present invention, the connector covers the end of the mesh structure located at the cap body. When the washing water containing lint flows to the cap body, it will not come into contact with the end of the mesh structure. The washing water flowing to the cap body comes into contact with the outer surface of the connector. It is convenient to rinse the surface of the connector with cleaning water and lint is not easy to remain.

[0008] According to some embodiments of the present invention, a first snap-fit ​​part is provided on the inner wall of the filter installation groove, and the mesh structure is provided with a second snap-fit ​​part that snaps into the first snap-fit ​​part.

[0009] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the connector includes: a base plate, wherein the end of the base plate facing the cover is provided with the cover connecting portion; and a peripheral wall portion, wherein the peripheral wall portion is disposed on the side of the base plate facing the scale inhibition module and surrounds the outer periphery of the base plate, and the peripheral wall portion and the base plate together define the filter screen mounting groove.

[0010] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the outer periphery of the peripheral wall portion is formed with guide ribs extending in the axial direction.

[0011] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the guide ribs are configured to be a plurality of ribs spaced apart axially on the peripheral wall portion, and the radial height of the guide ribs gradually decreases in the direction toward the scale inhibition module.

[0012] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the inner wall of the peripheral wall portion is provided with a snap-fit ​​protrusion that protrudes radially inward, and the mesh structure is provided with a snap-fit ​​hole that mates with the snap-fit ​​protrusion. The thickness of the snap-fit ​​protrusion gradually decreases in the direction toward the open end of the filter screen mounting groove to form a guide surface.

[0013] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the mesh structure is constructed in a cylindrical shape, the outer wall of the mesh structure cooperates with the inner wall of the peripheral wall portion, and a support portion extending toward the open end of the filter screen mounting groove is provided on the base plate. The support portion is spaced apart from the inner wall of the peripheral wall portion and is adapted to support the inner sidewall of the mesh structure.

[0014] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the connector includes an inner cylinder and an outer cylinder, the outer cylinder being sleeved around the outer periphery of the inner cylinder and the inner cylinder being connected to the end of the outer cylinder, and at least a portion of the inner cylinder and the outer cylinder being spaced apart to form the filter mounting groove.

[0015] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the cover is formed with a plurality of claws extending toward the connector, each claw having a hook extending radially outward at its free end, and the inner peripheral wall of the inner cylinder having a locking ring protruding radially inward, the locking ring engaging with the hook and abutting axially.

[0016] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the outer periphery of the outer cylinder is formed with a plurality of guide ribs arranged at intervals in the circumferential direction, and the height of the guide ribs in the radial direction gradually decreases in the direction toward the scale inhibition module.

[0017] The scale inhibitor module according to a second aspect embodiment of the present invention is briefly described below.

[0018] The scale inhibitor module according to the present invention includes the end cap assembly described in any of the above embodiments. Since the scale inhibitor module according to the present invention is provided with the end cap assembly of the above embodiments, the scale inhibitor module is easy to assemble and has a stable connection, is not prone to leakage, and is easy to disassemble. The scale inhibitor module is easy to clean and provides a good user experience.

[0019] The following is a brief description of a garment processing apparatus according to a third aspect embodiment of the present invention.

[0020] The garment treatment device according to the present invention includes the scale inhibition module described in any of the above embodiments. Since the garment treatment device according to the present invention is provided with the scale inhibition module of the above embodiments, the garment treatment device is easy to clean and assemble, and the garment treatment device has a simple structure, is easy to process, and works more stably.

[0021] In summary, the end cap assembly of the present invention covers the end of the mesh structure located at the cap body with the connector, preventing washing water containing lint from contacting and remaining at the end of the mesh structure. Furthermore, lint flowing to the connector can be washed away by the water flow along the extension direction of the guide ribs, making it less likely for lint to remain. The end cap assembly is less prone to accumulating dirt and grime, resulting in a better user experience. The connector fixes the inner and outer sides of the mesh structure through the snap-fit ​​protrusion and the support portion, which can limit the position of the mesh structure while supporting its plasticity, preventing the mesh structure from deforming over time. The snap-fit ​​structure is simple and easy to process, and the snap-fit ​​protrusion also forms a guide surface, making the mesh structure easy to install.

[0022] Additional aspects and advantages of the invention will be set forth in part in the description which follows, and in part will be obvious from the description, or may be learned by practice of the invention. Attached Figure Description

[0023] The above and / or additional aspects and advantages of the present invention will become apparent and readily understood from the description of the embodiments taken in conjunction with the following drawings, in which:

[0024] Figure 1 This is a structural diagram of the end cap assembly and scale inhibitor module after they are combined according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0025] Figure 2 This is a structural diagram of the end cap assembly and scale inhibitor module after separation according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0026] Figure 3 This is a structural diagram of the end cap assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0027] Figure 4 This is a structural diagram of the cover and connector after they are fitted together according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0028] Figure 5 This is a structural diagram of the connector according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0029] Figure 6 This is a top view of the connector according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0030] Figure 7 This is a partial structural cross-sectional view of the end cap assembly and scale inhibitor module after they are combined according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0031] Figure 8This is a partial structural cross-sectional view of the end cap assembly and scale inhibitor module after separation according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0032] Figure label:

[0033] End cap assembly 100; cap body 110; claw 111; hook 111a;

[0034] Connector 120; base plate 120a; peripheral wall 120b; guide rib 1201; snap-fit ​​protrusion 1202; guide surface 1202a; cover connecting part 121; filter screen mounting groove 122; support part 1221; inner cylinder 123; snap-fit ​​ring 123a; outer cylinder 124;

[0035] Mesh structure 130; scale inhibition module 200. Detailed Implementation

[0036] Embodiments of the present invention are described in detail below. Examples of these embodiments are shown in the accompanying drawings, wherein the same or similar reference numerals denote the same or similar elements or elements having the same or similar functions throughout. The embodiments described below with reference to the accompanying drawings are exemplary and are only used to explain the present invention, and should not be construed as limiting the present invention.

[0037] In the description of this invention, it should be understood that the terms "center," "longitudinal," "lateral," "length," "width," "thickness," "upper," "lower," "front," "rear," "left," "right," "vertical," "horizontal," "top," "bottom," "inner," "outer," "clockwise," and "counterclockwise," etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They are only for the convenience of describing this invention and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on this invention.

[0038] Furthermore, the terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of technical features indicated. Thus, a feature defined as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include one or more of that feature. In the description of this invention, "a plurality of" means at least two, such as two, three, etc., unless otherwise explicitly specified.

[0039] In this invention, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," "linking," and "fixing," etc., should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral part; they can refer to a mechanical connection, an electrical connection, or a connection that allows communication between them; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; they can refer to the internal communication of two components or the interaction between two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this invention according to the specific circumstances.

[0040] In this invention, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, "above" or "below" the second feature can include direct contact between the first and second features, or contact between the first and second features through another feature between them. Furthermore, "above," "over," and "on top" of the second feature includes the first feature directly above or diagonally above the second feature, or simply indicates that the first feature is at a higher horizontal level than the second feature. "Below," "below," and "under" the second feature includes the first feature directly below or diagonally below the second feature, or simply indicates that the first feature is at a lower horizontal level than the second feature.

[0041] Washing machines are usually equipped with filters, and the filters have end cap assemblies that make it easy to open and close the internal cavity of the filter. In the existing filter design, the end of the filter screen is matched with the end cap assembly. When washing water containing lint flows through the end of the filter screen, the lint is easy to remain on the end cap assembly and the end of the filter screen. Even after cleaning with water, dirt will still accumulate on the end of the filter screen, resulting in poor cleaning effect.

[0042] The following is for reference. Figures 1-6 An end cap assembly 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention is described.

[0043] like Figure 3As shown, the end cap assembly 100 according to the present invention includes: a cap body 110, a connector 120, and a mesh structure 130. The cap body 110 is adapted to cooperate with the scale inhibition module 200; the connector 120 is provided with a cap body connecting portion 121 that cooperates with the cap body 110 and a filter screen mounting groove 122 that cooperates with the mesh structure 130; the end of the mesh structure 130 is received in the filter screen mounting groove 122. Specifically, the end cap assembly 100 is installed at one end of the scale inhibition module 200. The scale inhibition module 200 has a chamber inside. The cover 110 can open and close the chamber after cooperating with the scale inhibition module 200. The mesh structure 130 is installed in the chamber. The surface of the mesh structure 130 has multiple mesh dots that are suitable for water flow but not for hair. The mesh structure 130 is suitable for filtering washing water. The cover 110 and the mesh structure 130 are connected by a connector 120. The connector 120 cooperates with both the cover 110 and the mesh structure 130. The cover 110 cooperates with the cover connection part 121 of the connector 120, and the mesh structure 130 cooperates with the filter screen mounting groove 122 of the connector 120. The connector 120 and the cover 110 are two separate parts. When assembling the end cap assembly 100, the connector 120 and the cover 110 can be welded or bonded together as a single unit, or the connector 120 and the cover 110 can be detachably assembled. When assembling the end cap assembly 100, the cover connecting part 121 of the connector 120 can be first connected to the cover 110, and then the end of the mesh structure 130 can be installed in the filter mounting groove 122.

[0044] In the end cap assembly 100 of the present invention, the connector 120 covers the end of the mesh structure 130 located at the cap body 110. When the washing water containing lint flows to the cap body 110, it will not come into contact with the end of the mesh structure 130. The washing water flowing to the cap body 110 comes into contact with the outer surface of the connector 120. It is convenient to rinse the surface of the connector 120 with cleaning water, and lint is not easy to remain.

[0045] According to some embodiments of the present invention, such as Figures 5-6 As shown, a first snap-fit ​​part is provided on the inner wall of the filter mounting groove 122, and a second snap-fit ​​part is provided on the mesh structure 130 to snap into the first snap-fit ​​part. Specifically, the connector 120 and the mesh structure 130 are engaged through the first snap-fit ​​part and the second snap-fit ​​part. When installing the mesh structure 130, the mesh structure 130 is pushed forcefully into the filter mounting groove 122 until the first snap-fit ​​part and the second snap-fit ​​part snap into place, thereby completing the engagement between the mesh structure 130 and the connector 120. The snap-fit ​​engagement method is simple in structure and convenient and reliable in operation.

[0046] In some embodiments of the present invention, the mesh structure 130 is installed on the inner side of the filter mounting groove 122. One of the first snap-fit ​​part and the second snap-fit ​​part has a convex point and the other has a concave point. It can be understood that the first snap-fit ​​part and the second snap-fit ​​part can also be other structures that are easy to process and facilitate the connection between the connector 120 and the mesh structure 130.

[0047] According to some embodiments of the present invention, such as Figure 5 As shown, the connector 120 includes a base plate 120a and a peripheral wall portion 120b. A cover connecting portion 121 is provided at one end of the base plate 120a facing the cover 110; the peripheral wall portion 120b is located on the side of the base plate 120a facing the scale inhibitor module 200 and surrounds the outer periphery of the base plate 120a. The peripheral wall portion 120b and the base plate 120a together define a filter screen mounting groove 122. Specifically, the filter screen mounting groove 122 is defined by the base plate 120a and the peripheral wall portion 120b. The end of the mesh structure 130 can extend into the filter screen mounting groove 122, and one side of the base plate 120a is the filter screen mounting groove 122, while the other side of the base plate 120a is the cover connecting portion 121.

[0048] According to some embodiments of the present invention, such as Figure 5 As shown, a guide rib 1201 extending axially is formed on the outer periphery of the peripheral wall portion 120b. Specifically, the guide rib 1201 is formed on the peripheral wall portion 120b and extends from the side where the bottom plate 120a is located toward the side where the mesh structure 130 is located. The guide rib 1201 is adapted to guide the water flow direction at the cover 110. Since the end cap assembly 100 will have a lot of lint adhering to the outside of the mesh structure 130, the scale inhibition module 200 contains washing water. The washing water washes the lint adhering to the outside of the mesh structure 130 to the end cap and adheres to the guide rib 1201. When the washing water flows back, the water flows along the guide rib 1201 extending axially toward the connector 120 and carries away the lint at the guide rib 1201, which can prevent lint from depositing here. It can be understood that the guide rib 1201 extends axially toward the connector 120, which is consistent with the water flow direction, so that lint will not remain here.

[0049] According to some embodiments of the present invention, such as Figure 5As shown, the guide ribs 1201 are configured as multiple ribs spaced apart axially in the peripheral wall portion 120b, and the radial height of the guide ribs 1201 gradually decreases in the direction toward the scale inhibition module 200. Specifically, the guide ribs 1201 are spaced apart and extend from the side where the base plate 120a is located toward the side where the mesh structure 130 is located. The guide ribs 1201 are inclined to prevent obstruction of water flow at the cover 110 of the scale inhibition module 200, ensuring smooth water flow at the cover 110, preventing water from entering the gaps between adjacent guide ribs 1201 and failing to exit completely, and avoiding residual water or dirt remaining in the gaps between the guide ribs 1201, which would make cleaning difficult for the user. More specifically, the connector 120 has a peripheral wall portion 120b at the front end that is connected to the mesh structure 130. The width of the front end of the connector 120 is greater than the diameter of the mesh structure 130. The guide rib 1201 is inclined and its radial height gradually decreases in the direction toward the scale inhibition module 200. Preferably, the inclination angle of the guide rib 1201 is greater than 10 degrees to prevent the guide rib 1201 from forming a dead angle of filtration due to an excessively small inclination angle, which would cause dirt to accumulate.

[0050] According to some embodiments of the present invention, such as Figures 5-6 As shown, a radially inwardly protruding snap-fit ​​protrusion 1202 is provided on the inner wall of the peripheral wall portion 120b. A snap-fit ​​hole (not shown) is provided on the mesh structure 130 to mate with the snap-fit ​​protrusion 1202. The thickness of the snap-fit ​​protrusion 1202 gradually decreases in the direction toward the open end of the filter mounting groove 122 to form a guide surface 1202a. Specifically, the snap-fit ​​protrusion 1202 is formed on the inner wall of the filter mounting groove 122 and protrudes radially inward along the connector 120. The snap-fit ​​hole is formed at the end of the mesh structure 130. When the snap-fit ​​protrusion 1202 extends into the snap-fit ​​hole, the connector 120 and the mesh structure 130 are engaged. The snap-fit ​​protrusion 1202 and the snap-fit ​​hole can fix the mesh structure 130. More specifically, a guide surface 1202a is formed on the side of the snap-fit ​​protrusion 1202 facing the open end of the filter mounting groove 122. The guide surface 1202a is suitable for guiding the installation of the mesh structure 130, making the installation of the mesh structure 130 easy.

[0051] In some embodiments of the present invention, the first snap-fit ​​part is configured as a snap-fit ​​protrusion 1202, and the second snap-fit ​​part is configured as a snap-fit ​​hole.

[0052] According to some embodiments of the present invention, such as Figure 3As shown, the mesh structure 130 is cylindrical in shape. The outer wall of the mesh structure 130 mates with the inner wall of the peripheral wall portion 120b. A support portion 1221 extending toward the open end of the filter screen mounting groove 122 is provided on the base plate 120a. The support portion 1221 is spaced apart from the inner wall of the peripheral wall portion 120b and is adapted to support the inner sidewall of the mesh structure 130. Specifically, the interior of the cylindrical mesh structure 130 is a filter chamber. The washing water in the scale inhibition module 200 can only enter the filter chamber through the surface formed by the mesh structure 130, resulting in good filtration of the washing water. Figure 6 As shown, the top view of the support portion 1221 is T-shaped. The end face of the support portion 1221 is constructed as the side wall of the filter screen mounting groove 122 and abuts against the inner wall of the mesh structure 130 after the mesh structure 130 is installed. The support portion 1221 can support the mesh structure 130 from the inside to play a shaping role for the mesh structure 130. More specifically, the T-shaped support portion 1221 has high strength and a good supporting effect on the mesh structure 130.

[0053] In some embodiments of the present invention, such as Figure 5 As shown, the snap-fit ​​protrusion 1202 contacts the outer surface of the mesh structure 130 and engages with the snap-fit ​​hole to limit the mesh structure 130. The snap-fit ​​rib contacts the inner surface of the mesh structure 130 and abuts against the inner wall of the mesh structure 130 to support and shape the mesh structure 130. The support part 1221 can prevent deformation of the mesh structure 130 from causing the snap-fit ​​to fail.

[0054] According to some embodiments of the present invention, such as Figures 7-8 As shown, the connector 120 includes an inner cylinder 123 and an outer cylinder 124. The outer cylinder 124 is sleeved around the outer periphery of the inner cylinder 123, and the ends of the inner cylinder 123 and the outer cylinder 124 are connected. At least a portion of the inner cylinder 123 and the outer cylinder 124 are spaced apart to form a filter mounting groove 122. Specifically, the outer cylinder 124 and the inner cylinder 123 have ends near the cover 110, and the ends of the inner cylinder 123 and the outer cylinder 124 are connected. At least a portion of the inner cylinder 123 and the outer cylinder 124 are spaced apart and a filter mounting groove 122 is formed. The mesh structure 130 extends into the filter mounting groove 122. The inner cylinder 123 fits against the inner side of the mesh structure 130 and supports the mesh structure 130. The outer cylinder 124 fits against the outer side of the mesh structure 130 and, together with the inner cylinder 123, defines the position of the mesh structure 130. The fit between the connector 120 and the mesh structure 130 is simple and easy to operate.

[0055] According to some embodiments of the present invention, such as Figures 7-8As shown, the cover 110 has multiple claws 111 extending toward the connector 120. Each claw 111 has a radially outwardly extending hook 111a at its free end. The inner peripheral wall of the inner cylinder 123 has a radially inwardly protruding locking ring 123a. The locking ring 123a engages with the hook 111a and provides axial abutment. Specifically, the connector 120 and the cover 110 are connected by the locking engagement of the claws 111 and the locking ring 123a. Multiple claws 111 are constructed and extend toward the connector 120. The inner peripheral wall of the inner cylinder 123 forms the locking ring 123a, which engages with the hook 111a of the claws 111. The claws 111 can undergo slight deformation to allow the hook 111a to engage with the locking ring 123a. When installing the cover 110 and the connector 120, press the connector 120 firmly until the hook 111a engages with the snap ring 123a. Then, insert the mesh structure 130 into the filter screen mounting groove 122 to complete the assembly of the end cover assembly 100. The structure is simple and the operation is convenient.

[0056] According to some embodiments of the present invention, such as Figures 7-8 As shown, the outer circumference of the outer cylinder 124 is formed with a plurality of guide ribs 1201 arranged at intervals in the circumferential direction. The radial height of the guide ribs 1201 gradually decreases in the direction toward the scale inhibition module 200. Specifically, the guide ribs 1201 are spaced apart and extend from one side of the cover 110 toward the side where the mesh structure 130 is located. The guide ribs 1201 are inclined to prevent obstruction of water flow at the cover 110 of the scale inhibition module 200, ensuring smooth water flow at the cover 110, preventing water from entering the gaps between adjacent guide ribs 1201 and not being able to completely exit, and avoiding residual water or dirt remaining in the gaps between the guide ribs 1201, which would make cleaning difficult for the user. More specifically, the front end of the connector 120 is connected to the mesh structure 130. The width of the front end of the connector 120 is greater than the diameter of the mesh structure 130. The guide rib 1201 is inclined and its radial height gradually decreases in the direction toward the scale inhibition module 200. Preferably, the inclination angle of the guide rib 1201 is greater than 10 degrees to prevent the guide rib 1201 from forming a dead angle of filtration and causing dirt accumulation due to the inclination angle of the guide rib 1201 being too small.

[0057] In some embodiments of the present invention, the end cap assembly 100 includes a cap body 110, a connector 120, and a mesh structure 130. The connector 120 has a cap body connecting portion 121 and a filter screen mounting groove 122. The filter screen mounting groove 122 is defined by a base plate 120a and a peripheral wall portion 120b. A plurality of spaced-apart snap-fit ​​protrusions 1202 are formed on the inner side of the peripheral wall portion 120b, and the snap-fit ​​protrusions 1202 have guide surfaces 1202a. A plurality of guide ribs 1201 are formed on the outer side of the peripheral wall portion 120b. The guide ribs 1201 extend from the side where the base plate 120a is located toward the side where the mesh structure 130 is located in the axial direction of the connector 120 and the height gradually decreases. The inclination angle of the guide ribs 1201 is 20 degrees, and a gap is formed between the plurality of inclination guide ribs 1201. A "T"-shaped support portion 1221 is formed on the side of the base plate 120a facing the filter screen mounting groove 122. The mesh structure 130 has snap-fit ​​holes at its ends.

[0058] When assembling the end cap assembly 100, first, the connector 120 and the cover body 110 are fitted together through the cover body connecting part 121. Then, the mesh structure 130 is inserted into the filter screen mounting groove 122, with the snap-fit ​​protrusion 1202 contacting the outer surface of the mesh structure 130 and the support part 1221 contacting the inner surface of the mesh structure 130. After the snap-fit ​​protrusion 1202 engages with the snap-fit ​​hole, the mesh structure 130 is fixed to the connector 120, thus completing the assembly of the end cap assembly 100. The end cap assembly 100 and the scale inhibition module 200 are then fitted together. When the scale inhibition module 200 is working, washing water containing lint flows to the cover body 110. The washing water flows along the extension direction of the guide ribs 1201, and the lint remaining in the gaps of the guide ribs 1201 is carried away by the return water flow.

[0059] The end cap assembly 100 of the present invention can prevent the washing water from contacting the end of the mesh structure 130 when the washing water flows to the cap body 110, and the washing water flowing to the cap body 110 can flow easily at the guide rib 1201 on the outer surface of the connector 120, making it easy to rinse the guide rib 1201 with water flow and preventing lint from being left behind.

[0060] In the prior art, the appearance of the end cap assembly 100 and the scale inhibition module 200 is mostly cylindrical, which makes it inconvenient for users to apply force to unscrew the end cap assembly 100. When there is water or detergent on the surface of the end cap assembly 100, the user's hand will slip, resulting in a poor user experience.

[0061] In some embodiments of the present invention, the overall cross-section of the cover 110 is the same as the overall cross-section of the scale inhibition module 200. For example, in some embodiments, the overall cross-section of the cover 110 after it is fitted with the scale inhibition module 200 is circular, and the overall appearance of the cover 110 after it is fitted with the scale inhibition module 200 is cylindrical. In other embodiments, the overall cross-section of the cover 110 after it is fitted with the scale inhibition module 200 is polygonal, and the overall appearance of the cover 110 after it is fitted with the scale inhibition module 200 is a polygonal prism. It is understood that the overall appearance of the cover 110 after it is fitted with the scale inhibition module 200 is not limited to the cylindrical or polygonal shape mentioned in the above embodiments, but can also be other structures that are easy to pick up, put down and install.

[0062] In some embodiments of the present invention, the cover 110 is constructed as a polygonal prism. To facilitate the user's grip and opening of the cover 110, the overall appearance of the cover 110 is designed as a polygonal prism structure, with multiple edges on the outer periphery to prevent slippage due to lubrication from water or detergent when the cover 110 is rotated open. Each surface of the polygonal prism of the cover 110 has a rounded transition with adjacent surfaces to prevent scratches to the user's hands. In some embodiments of the present invention, the cover 110 has a rectangular cross-section with four edges, and the scale inhibition module 200 has the same cross-section as the cover 110. When the cover 110 and the scale inhibition module 200 are fitted together, the overall appearance is a cuboid, facilitating the overall installation of the scale inhibition module 200. This also makes it convenient for the user to pick up and put down the scale inhibition module 200 or to disassemble and assemble the end cap assembly 100, resulting in a better user experience.

[0063] In some embodiments, when assembling the end cap assembly 100, the connector 120 and the cover body 110 can be welded or bonded together as a single unit, resulting in a stable structure for the end cap assembly 100. In other embodiments, the connector 120 and the cover body 110 can be detachably assembled via a snap-fit ​​or threaded connection, facilitating the assembly or disassembly of the scale inhibitor module 200 by personnel. It is understood that the connection between the connector 120 and the cover body 110 can also be one or a combination of snap-fit, threaded connection, bonding, and welding. In some embodiments, a threaded connection can be used to radially and axially limit the connector 120, followed by a snap-fit ​​to circumferentially limit it. The connection between the connector 120 and the cover body 110 is not limited to a combination of snap-fit ​​and threaded connection; it can also be other combinations of the above four connection methods, as long as a stable connection between the connector 120 and the cover body 110 is ensured.

[0064] In some embodiments of the present invention, one end of the connector 120 with the cover connecting portion 121 is located inside the cover 110 to cooperate with the cover 110; one end of the connector 120 with the filter screen mounting groove 122 is located inside the scale inhibition module 200 to cooperate with the mesh structure 130; at least a portion of the outer periphery of the scale inhibition module 200 is provided with threads, which are adapted to cooperate with the inner wall thread of the cover 110, thereby realizing the cooperation between the scale inhibition module 200 and the end cap assembly 100. The connector 120 and the cover 110, the connector 120 and the mesh structure 130, and the scale inhibition module 200 and the cover 110 are assembled in sequence to complete the cooperation between the scale inhibition module 200 and the end cap assembly 100.

[0065] The scale inhibitor module 200 according to a second aspect embodiment of the present invention is briefly described below.

[0066] like Figures 1-2 As shown, the scale inhibition module 200 according to the present invention includes the end cap assembly 100 described in any of the above embodiments. Since the scale inhibition module 200 according to the present invention is provided with the end cap assembly 100 of the above embodiments, the scale inhibition module 200 is easy to assemble and has a stable connection, is not prone to leakage, and is easy to disassemble. The scale inhibition module 200 is easy to clean and provides a good user experience.

[0067] The following is a brief description of a garment processing apparatus according to a third aspect embodiment of the present invention.

[0068] The garment processing device according to the present invention includes the scale inhibition module 200 described in any of the above embodiments. Since the garment processing device according to the present invention is provided with the scale inhibition module 200 of the above embodiments, the garment processing device is easy to clean and assemble, and the garment processing device has a simple structure, is easy to process, and works more stably.

[0069] In summary, the end cap assembly 100 of the present invention covers the end of the mesh structure 130 located at the cap body 110 with the connector 120, preventing washing water containing lint from contacting and remaining at the end of the mesh structure 130. Furthermore, lint flowing to the connector 120 can be washed away by the water flow along the extension direction of the guide rib 1201, making it less likely for lint to remain. The end cap assembly 100 is less prone to accumulating dirt, resulting in a better user experience. The connector 120 fixes the inner and outer sides of the mesh structure 130 through the snap-fit ​​protrusion 1202 and the support portion 1221, which can limit the position of the mesh structure 130 while supporting its plasticity, preventing the mesh structure 130 from deforming due to prolonged use. The snap-fit ​​structure is simple and easy to process, and the snap-fit ​​protrusion 1202 also forms a guide surface 1202a, making the mesh structure 130 easy to install.

[0070] In the description of this specification, the references to terms such as "one embodiment," "some embodiments," "example," "specific example," or "some examples," etc., indicate that a specific feature, structure, material, or characteristic described in connection with that embodiment or example is included in at least one embodiment or example of the invention. In this specification, the illustrative expressions of the above terms do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment or example. Furthermore, the specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments or examples. In addition, those skilled in the art can combine and integrate the different embodiments or examples described in this specification.

[0071] Although embodiments of the present invention have been shown and described above, variations, modifications, substitutions and alterations can be made to the above embodiments.

Claims

1. An end cap assembly, characterized in that, include: A cover body adapted to mate with a scale inhibition module; A connector is provided with a cover connecting portion that mates with the cover and a filter mounting groove that mates with the mesh structure; the connector includes: a base plate, the cover connecting portion being provided at one end of the base plate facing the cover; and a peripheral wall portion, the peripheral wall portion being provided on the side of the base plate facing the scale inhibition module and surrounding the outer periphery of the base plate, the peripheral wall portion and the base plate together defining the filter mounting groove; A mesh structure, the ends of which are received within the filter mounting groove; The inner wall of the peripheral wall portion is provided with a snap-fit ​​protrusion that protrudes radially inward, and the mesh structure is provided with a snap-fit ​​hole that mates with the snap-fit ​​protrusion. The thickness of the snap-fit ​​protrusion gradually decreases in the direction toward the open end of the filter screen mounting groove to form a guide surface. The base plate is provided with a support portion extending toward the open end of the filter mounting groove. The support portion is spaced apart from the inner wall of the peripheral wall portion and is adapted to support the inner sidewall of the mesh structure. The cross-section of the support portion is T-shaped.

2. The end cap assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, The inner wall of the filter installation groove is provided with a first snap-fit ​​part, and the mesh structure is provided with a second snap-fit ​​part that snaps into the first snap-fit ​​part.

3. The end cap assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, The outer periphery of the peripheral wall is formed with guide ribs extending in the axial direction.

4. The end cap assembly according to claim 3, characterized in that, The guide ribs are configured to be multiple axially spaced on the peripheral wall portion, and the radial height of the guide ribs gradually decreases in the direction toward the scale inhibition module.

5. The end cap assembly according to claim 4, characterized in that, The mesh structure is cylindrical, and the outer wall of the mesh structure fits into the inner wall of the peripheral wall portion.

6. The end cap assembly according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The connector includes: The inner cylinder and the outer cylinder are provided, the outer cylinder is sleeved on the outer periphery of the inner cylinder and the ends of the inner cylinder are connected to the outer cylinder, and at least a portion of the inner cylinder and the outer cylinder are spaced apart to form the filter screen mounting groove.

7. The end cap assembly according to claim 6, characterized in that, The cover has a plurality of claws extending toward the connector, and each claw has a hook extending radially outward at its free end. The inner circumferential wall of the inner cylinder has a snap ring protruding radially inward. The snap ring engages with the hook and provides axial abutment.

8. The end cap assembly according to claim 6, characterized in that, The outer cylinder has a plurality of guide ribs arranged at intervals in the circumferential direction, and the height of the guide ribs in the radial direction gradually decreases in the direction toward the scale inhibition module.

9. A scale inhibition module, characterized in that, Includes the end cap assembly as described in any one of claims 1-8.

10. A garment processing device, characterized in that, Includes the scale inhibitor module as described in claim 9.

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