Detergent box assembly and washing machine

Abstract

The embodiment of the invention provides a detergent box assembly which comprises an inner box, an outer box, an inner box cover and an outer box cover. The outer box is provided with a containing cavity used for containing the inner box, and the inner box can move outwards from the containing cavity in the opening direction; an external connection terminal detachably connected to the inner box so as to form an electrical connection with the inner box; and a deformable cable protection member for accommodating at least a partial section of a cable connected to the external connection terminal, the cable protection member being arranged to deform synchronously with the movement of the external connection terminal during the movement of the external connection terminal in an opening direction and a closing direction opposite to the opening direction. The invention further provides a corresponding washing machine. According to some embodiments of the invention, the structure of the detergent box assembly can be optimized, so that the detergent box assembly is stable and reliable in structure, convenient to operate and / or easy to automatically open.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The invention relates to the field of household appliances, in particular to a detergent box assembly and a washing machine. Background Art

[0002] In a household appliance, such as a washing machine, a detergent box assembly may be provided, the detergent box assembly comprising an inner box for containing detergent and an outer box for accommodating the inner box.

[0003] The inner box can be opened by the user manually pulling to add detergent. In order to facilitate the user's operation, the inner box can also be set to be able to open automatically. The detergent box assembly also includes a connecting terminal to provide an electrical connection for the components in the inner box. The connecting terminal is usually fixed to the outer box and connected to the inner box. When the inner box is opened, the inner box is disconnected from the connecting terminal. Therefore, when opening the inner box, it is necessary to overcome a large resistance in order to disconnect the inner box from the connecting terminal. This makes it inconvenient for the user to operate when opening the inner box. In addition, it also makes it difficult for the inner box to open automatically. When the connecting terminal is set to move relative to the outer box, the cable connected to the connecting terminal is easily damaged or hinders the movement of components such as the inner box.

[0004] Currently, the detergent box assembly has the disadvantages of being inconvenient to operate, difficult to open automatically, easy to be damaged, and having an unstable structure. Summary of the invention

[0005] An object of embodiments of the present invention is to provide an improved detergent box assembly and a washing machine so as to overcome at least one of the above-mentioned deficiencies of the prior art.

[0006] According to a first aspect of the present invention, an embodiment of the present invention provides a detergent box assembly, wherein the detergent box assembly includes: an inner box for containing detergent; an outer box, which is provided with a receiving cavity for receiving the inner box, and the inner box can move outward from the receiving cavity in an opening direction; an external connection terminal, which is detachably connected to the inner box so as to form an electrical connection with the inner box; and a deformable cable protection member, which is used to receive at least a portion of a cable connected to the external connection terminal. The cable protection member is configured to be able to deform synchronously with the movement of the external connection terminal during the movement of the external connection terminal in an opening direction and a closing direction opposite to the opening direction.

[0007] The cable protector can always constrain the movement and deformation of the cable during the movement of the external connection terminal in the opening direction and the closing direction, so that at least a portion of the cable is still retained in the cable protector even if it is deformed, thereby preventing the cable from uncontrolled movement and deformation during the opening and closing of the inner box. The cable can be protected in this way. In addition, the inner box can be prevented from getting stuck due to the cable during the movement. For example, the curled cable can be prevented from getting stuck between the inner box and the outer box, thereby causing the inner box to get stuck during the movement.

[0008] According to an optional embodiment of the present invention, during the opening stroke of the inner box, the external connection terminal can move synchronously with the inner box in the opening direction so as to remain connected to the inner box; when the inner box moves in the opening direction beyond the limit position of its opening stroke, the external connection terminal can be restricted in the opening direction and disconnected from the inner box. Therefore, during the opening stroke of the inner box, the external connection terminal can remain connected to the inner box without being disconnected from the inner box. The external connection terminal is not disconnected from the inner box until the inner box moves in the opening direction beyond the limit position of its opening stroke. This makes it unnecessary for the driving force used to drive the inner box to overcome the connection force between the external connection terminal and the inner box during the opening process of the inner box. This is particularly helpful for achieving automatic opening of the inner box. In the case where the inner box is opened manually, the force required to be applied by the user can also be reduced.

[0009] For example, one end of the cable protector is kinematically coupled to the external connection terminal, and the other end of the cable protector is attached to the outer box. This helps ensure that the cable protector is deformed in a predetermined manner.

[0010] The cable protection member may be configured to be capable of undergoing telescopic deformation and / or bending deformation synchronously with the movement of the external connection terminal. The cable protection member may optionally include at least one of the following: a corrugated tube, a telescopic sleeve, and a drag chain.

[0011] According to an optional embodiment of the present invention, the cable protector can be configured as a drag chain. The drag chain includes a plurality of drag chain units. The drag chain can be arranged in particular so that adjacent drag chain units among the plurality of drag chain units are rotatably connected relative to each other around a rotation axis extending in a vertical direction. This helps to make the detergent box assembly have a compact structure. In particular, there is no need to increase the height of the outer box. Optionally, the plurality of drag chain units are all located in the same horizontal plane, thereby preventing the drag chain from obstructing the movement of the inner box. In particular, when the inner box is in an open state, the drag chain will not sag below the inner box.

[0012] For example, the plurality of drag chain units may include a first end unit and a second end unit located at both ends of the drag chain, respectively, and an intermediate unit located between the first end unit and the second end unit. The intermediate unit may be supported only by the drag chain units adjacent thereto. Thus, friction between the drag chain and the inner box or the outer box during movement can be avoided, thereby preventing wear and noise caused thereby.

[0013] According to an optional embodiment of the present invention, the detergent box assembly further comprises a connector, which connects the external connection terminal to the cable protection member. Thus, there is no need to complicate the structures of the external connection terminal and the cable protection member.

[0014] According to an optional embodiment of the present invention, during the opening stroke of the inner box, the connecting member and the external connecting terminal can move synchronously with the inner box in the opening direction; when the inner box moves in the opening direction beyond the limit position of its opening stroke, the external connecting terminal can be limited by the connecting member so as to be disconnected from the inner box. With the help of the connecting member, the external connecting terminal can be moved synchronously with the inner box during the opening stroke of the inner box, and can also be disconnected from the inner box when the inner box moves in the opening direction beyond the limit position of its opening stroke.

[0015] According to an optional embodiment of the present invention, the connector may include a limit housing configured to limit the external connection terminal in the opening direction and the closing direction. The limit housing may, for example, surround the external connection terminal in the circumferential direction relative to the opening direction. Thereby, a stable and reliable connection between the connector and the external connection terminal may be ensured, particularly when the connection between the external connection terminal and the inner box is formed or disconnected.

[0016] Optionally, the connector may include a sheath for accommodating a portion of a cable connected to the external connection terminal. The sheath may extend in the opening direction. The sheath may, for example, surround the cable circumferentially relative to the opening direction. This may protect the cable and prevent the inner box from getting stuck due to the cable during movement.

[0017] According to an optional embodiment of the present invention, in a cross section perpendicular to the opening direction, the cross-sectional area of ​​the sheath is smaller than the cross-sectional area of ​​the limiting housing. The sheath with a smaller cross section can effectively reduce the deformation of the accommodated cable.

[0018] According to an optional embodiment of the present invention, the sheath may include a first wall and a second wall extending in the opening direction and opposite to each other. The cable may be held between the first wall and the second wall. The sheath may also include at least one elastic arm extending from one of the first wall and the second wall to the other in a cantilevered manner. The elastic arm may, for example, be configured to be elastically deformable in a direction perpendicular to the opening direction. In the non-deformed state of the elastic arm, the spacing between the elastic arm and the other of the first wall and the second wall may be less than the diameter of the cable. As a result, the cable can be installed in the sheath in a simple manner, without the need for additional components or tools.

[0019] According to an optional embodiment of the present invention, the cable protector is configured as a drag chain, and the first end of the drag chain can be attached to the end of the sheath away from the external connection terminal, and the second end of the drag chain can be attached to the outer box. The sheath can reduce the length of the drag chain, which helps to prevent the drag chain from sagging. In this case, it is particularly helpful to prevent the drag chain from sagging by making adjacent drag chain units among the multiple drag chain units rotatably connected relative to each other around a rotation axis extending in a vertical direction. With the help of the sheath, it helps to make multiple drag chain units all located in the same horizontal plane. The first end unit and the second end unit of the drag chain located at both ends can be attached to the connector and the outer box respectively, and the middle unit can be supported only by the drag chain unit adjacent to it.

[0020] According to an optional embodiment of the present invention, when the inner box is in the closed position, the two ends of the sheath can be respectively located in front of and behind the second end of the drag chain in the opening direction; when the inner box is in the extreme position of the opening stroke, the end of the sheath away from the external connection terminal can be located in front of the second end of the drag chain in the opening direction. This is conducive to preventing the drag chain from sagging. With the help of the sheath, the relative positions of the two ends of the drag chain during the movement process can be set as needed.

[0021] According to an optional embodiment of the present invention, the cover may end at a first position on a side facing the second end of the drag chain along the closing direction, and the cover may end at a second position on a side facing away from the second end of the drag chain along the closing direction, the second position being located behind the first position in the opening direction. This helps to ensure that the drag chain is deformed in a predetermined manner.

[0022] According to an optional embodiment of the present invention, the inner box may be provided with a recess for accommodating the cable protector. When the inner box is in the closed position, the cable protector may be located in the recess. This helps to reduce the size of the detergent box assembly.

[0023] According to an optional embodiment of the present invention, the cable protection member is arranged above the inner box in a suspended manner so that the cable protection member does not contact the inner box, thereby preventing the cable protection member from rubbing against the inner box and causing wear and noise.

[0024] According to a second aspect of the present invention, an embodiment of the present invention provides a washing machine, comprising the detergent box assembly according to the present invention. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0025] The present invention will be described in more detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings, so that the principles, features and advantages of the present invention can be better understood. The accompanying drawings include:

[0026] Figure 1A and Figure 1B Schematically illustrates a detergent box assembly according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

[0027] Figure 2 Schematically illustrates some components of a detergent box assembly according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

[0028] Figure 3A , Figure 3B and Figure 3C Schematically illustrates a detergent box assembly according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

[0029] Figure 4 Schematically illustrating a connection member of a detergent box assembly according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

[0030] Figure 5 schematically illustrates some components of a detergent box assembly according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

[0031] Figure 6 The diagram schematically shows the Figure 5 Some parts of the detergent box assembly shown; and

[0032] Fig. 7A and Figure 7B A detergent box assembly according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is schematically illustrated.

[0033] Reference numerals list

[0034] 1 Inner box

[0035] 11 Electrical devices

[0036] 12 Internal connection terminals

[0037] 13 recess

[0038] 2 Outer box

[0039] 20 Accommodation chamber

[0040] 21 Top wall

[0041] 22 Lower box body

[0042] 23 Limiting structure

[0043] 24 Guide slot

[0044] 25 Through Holes

[0045] 3 External connection terminals

[0046] 30 Cables

[0047] 4 Cable protector

[0048] 41 Bellows

[0049] 42 Drag chain

[0050] 420 drag chain unit

[0051] 421 First end unit

[0052] 422 Second end unit

[0053] 42 Intermediate Unit

[0054] 5 Connectors

[0055] 51 Limit housing

[0056] 511 Part 1

[0057] 512 Part 2

[0058] 52 Sheath

[0059] 521 First Wall

[0060] 522 Second Wall

[0061] 52 Elastic Arm

[0062] 6 Driving mechanism

[0063] 61 drive element

[0064] 62 Damping gear

[0065] 63 Elastic parts DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0066] In order to make the technical problems, technical solutions and beneficial technical effects to be solved by the present invention more clearly understood, the present invention will be further described in detail below in conjunction with the accompanying drawings and multiple exemplary embodiments. It should be understood that the specific embodiments described herein are only used to explain the present invention, rather than to limit the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0067] First, for ease of understanding, let's go back to the description in the background technology section. The detergent box assembly in the prior art has problems such as inconvenient operation, high difficulty in automatic opening, easy damage, and unstable structure.

[0068] In response to at least one of the above-mentioned technical problems or other possible technical problems, an exemplary embodiment of the present invention provides a detergent box assembly, wherein the detergent box assembly includes: an inner box for containing detergent; an outer box, which is provided with a accommodating cavity for accommodating the inner box, and the inner box can move outward from the accommodating cavity along an opening direction; an external connection terminal, which is detachably connected to the inner box so as to form an electrical connection with the inner box; and a deformable cable protector, which is used to accommodate at least a partial section of a cable connected to the external connection terminal, and the cable protector is configured to be able to deform synchronously with the movement of the external connection terminal during the movement of the external connection terminal in an opening direction and a closing direction opposite to the opening direction.

[0069] In order to better understand the present invention, exemplary embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0070] Before starting the specific description, it should be pointed out that the directional terms used in the description process refer to the normal use state of the household appliance for the purpose of convenience of description and should not be understood as an absolute limitation on the corresponding characteristics.

[0071] Figure 1A and Figure 1B A detergent box assembly according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is schematically shown. In this embodiment, the detergent box assembly can be applied to a washing machine. In other embodiments, the detergent box assembly according to the exemplary embodiment of the present invention can be applied to various household appliances, such as dishwashers, washing and drying machines, etc.

[0072] like Figure 1A and Figure 1B As shown, the detergent box assembly includes: an inner box 1 for containing detergent; an outer box 2, which is provided with a receiving cavity 20 for receiving the inner box 1, and the inner box 1 can move outward from the receiving cavity 20 along the opening direction D1; and an external connection terminal 3, which is detachably connected to the inner box 1 so as to form an electrical connection with the inner box 1. With the help of the external connection terminal 3, the inner box 1 can form a conductive connection with other components of the washing machine, so as to transmit power or communication signals between the inner box 1 and the other components. In order to ensure that the electrical connection between the external connection terminal 3 and the inner box 1 is stable and reliable, a relatively strong physical connection is usually formed between the external connection terminal 3 and the inner box 1. Therefore, a large force needs to be provided to disconnect the external connection terminal 3 from the inner box 1. Figure 1AThe inner box 1 is shown in a closed state, wherein the inner box 1 is substantially completely located in the accommodating cavity 20. For example, in the closed state of the inner box 1, the detergent contained in the inner box 1 can be flushed into the drum of the washing machine for washing clothes. Figure 1B The inner box 1 is shown in an open state, wherein the inner box 1 moves outward from the accommodating chamber 20 so as to be partially exposed to the outside, so as to facilitate, for example, the user to add detergent to the inner box 1. The outer box 2 may include, for example, a top wall 21 (see Fig. 7A and Figure 7B ) and a lower box body 22. The lower box body 22 may be formed with a groove, and the inner box 1 is located in the groove. The top wall 21 may cover the lower box body 22 so as to enclose the accommodating cavity 20 together with the lower box body 22. Figure 1A and Figure 1B The top wall 21 of the outer box 2 is omitted in order to show the internal structure of the detergent box assembly.

[0073] The detergent box assembly further includes a deformable cable protector 4 for accommodating at least a portion of a cable 30 connected to the external connection terminal 3. Here, the cable 30 is not visible due to being blocked by the cable protector 4 and is therefore shown in dotted lines. The cable protector 4 is configured to be deformable synchronously with the movement of the external connection terminal 3 during the movement of the external connection terminal 3 in the opening direction D1 and the closing direction D2 opposite to the opening direction D1.

[0074] The cable protector 4 can always constrain the movement and deformation of the cable 30 during the movement of the external connection terminal 3 along the opening direction D1 and the closing direction D2, so that at least a portion of the cable 30 is still retained in the cable protector 4 even if it is deformed, thereby preventing the cable 30 from uncontrolled movement and deformation during the opening and closing of the inner box 1. In this way, the cable 30 can be protected. In addition, the inner box 1 can be prevented from being stuck due to the cable 30 during the movement. For example, the curled cable 30 can be prevented from being stuck between the inner box 1 and the outer box 2, thereby causing the inner box 1 to be stuck during the movement.

[0075] Optionally, the cable protector 4 is arranged above the inner box 1 in a suspended manner so that the cable protector 4 does not contact the inner box 1. Thus, wear and noise caused by friction of the cable protector 4 on the inner box 1 can be prevented.

[0076] Figure 2 Schematically shows some components of a detergent box assembly according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. Figure 2In the embodiment, the external connection terminal 3 is connected to the inner box 1. The inner box 1 may, for example, include an electrical device 11 and an internal connection terminal 12 for electrically connecting the electrical device 11 to the external connection terminal 3. The electrical device 11 may, for example, include a pump and / or a sensor, etc. The internal connection terminal 12 may be configured to be able to form a plug connection with the external connection terminal 3 in a direction opposite to the opening direction D1. One end of the external connection terminal 3 may be connected to the internal connection terminal 12, and the other end of the external connection terminal 3 may, for example, be connected to a power supply device and / or a control device of a washing machine, etc. With the help of the external connection terminal 3, power may be provided to the electrical device 11 in the inner box 1. Alternatively or additionally, with the help of the external connection terminal 3, a communication connection may be provided between the electrical device 11 and the control device.

[0077] like Figure 1A and Figure 1B As shown, one end of the external connection terminal 3 is connected to the inner box 1, and the other end is connected to the cable 30. The cable 30 can, for example, pass through the outer box 2 and be connected to the power supply device and / or control device of the washing machine. The cable 30 may include a power cable and / or a communication cable. When the inner box 1 is in the closed state, the cable 30 can be curled and stored in the accommodating cavity 20. In the absence of a cable protector 4, the curled cable 30 may be stuck between relatively moving parts, thereby hindering the relative movement of the parts, or causing the cable 30 to be squeezed or even damaged. Figure 1A In the illustrated embodiment, the cable 30 is curled and stored in the cable protection member 4 to prevent uncontrolled movement and deformation. During the opening of the inner box 1, the external connection terminal 3 moves in the opening direction D1, so that the cable 30 can be unfolded under the traction of the external connection terminal 3. At the same time, the cable protection member 4 is deformed synchronously with the movement of the external connection terminal 3. The cable 30 is always stored in the cable protection member 4.

[0078] Optionally, during the opening stroke of the inner box 1, the external connection terminal 3 may move synchronously with the inner box 1 in the opening direction D1 so as to remain connected with the inner box 1. When the inner box 1 moves in the opening direction D1 beyond the limit position of its opening stroke, the external connection terminal 3 may be restricted in the opening direction D1 and disconnected from the inner box 1. For example, the outer box 2 may be provided with a limiting structure 23. For example, the limiting structure 23 may be configured to enable the external connection terminal 3 to move relative to the outer box 2 in the opening direction D1. For example, the limiting structure 23 may be formed as a stopper located at the lower side of the top wall 21, which blocks the external connection terminal 3 in front of the external connection terminal 3 when the inner box 1 moves in the opening direction D1 beyond the limit position of its opening stroke. Therefore, during the opening stroke of the inner box 1, the external connection terminal 3 can remain connected with the inner box 1 without being disconnected from the inner box 1. The external connection terminal 3 is disconnected from the inner box 1 until the inner box 1 moves in the opening direction D1 beyond the limit position of its opening stroke. This means that during the process of opening the inner box 1, the driving force for driving the inner box 1 does not need to overcome the connection force between the external connection terminal 3 and the inner box 1. This is particularly helpful for achieving the automatic opening of the inner box 1. In the case where the inner box 1 is opened manually, the force required to be applied by the user can also be reduced. Advantageously, when the inner box 1 is opened, the external connection terminal 3 can still be stably and reliably electrically connected to the inner box 1. Therefore, the electrical device 11 of the inner box 1 can still operate. For example, when the inner box 1 is opened to add detergent, the sensor in the inner box 1 can detect the amount of detergent added, and transmit the detection result to the control device, which can then notify the user of the detection result.

[0079] See also Figure 1A and Figure 1B , the first end of the cable protector 4 is movably coupled to the external connection terminal 3, and the second end of the cable protector 4 can be attached to the outer box 2. The first end of the cable protector 4 can be directly attached to the external connection terminal 3, for example. As a result, the first end of the cable protector 4 can move with the external connection terminal 3, so that the cable protector 4 can be deformed synchronously with the movement of the external connection terminal 3. By attaching the second end of the cable protector 4 to the outer box 2, it helps to ensure that the cable protector 4 is deformed in a predetermined manner. During the opening and closing process of the inner box, the cable protector 4 is always located in the accommodating cavity 20.

[0080] Optionally, the cable protector 4 may be configured to be capable of undergoing telescopic deformation synchronously with the movement of the external connection terminal 3. As an example, the cable protector 4 may be formed as a bellows 41. The cable 30 may extend in the bellows 41. When the external connection terminal 3 moves along the opening direction D1, the bellows 41 may be stretched synchronously along the opening direction D1; when the external connection terminal 3 moves along the closing direction D2, the bellows 41 may be compressed synchronously along the closing direction D2. In another embodiment, the cable protector 4 may also be formed as a telescopic sleeve or the like. Alternatively or additionally, the cable protector 4 may be configured to be capable of undergoing bending deformation synchronously with the movement of the external connection terminal 3.

[0081] The outer box 2 may be provided with a recess 13 for accommodating the cable protector 4. When the inner box 1 is in the closed position, the cable protector 4 may be located in the recess 13. This helps to reduce the size of the detergent box assembly.

[0082] Figure 3A , Figure 3B and Figure 3C A detergent box assembly according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is schematically illustrated, wherein a top wall 21 of the outer box 2 is omitted in order to illustrate an internal structure of the detergent box assembly. Figure 3A and Figure 3B The inner box 1 is shown in a closed state and an open state respectively.

[0083] In this embodiment, the detergent box assembly may further include a connector 5, which connects the external connection terminal 3 to the cable protection member 4. Thus, there is no need to complicate the structures of the external connection terminal 3 and the cable protection member 4. In particular, the concept of the present invention may also be applied without changing the configuration of the existing external connection terminal 3.

[0084] During the opening stroke of the inner box 1, i.e. from Figure 3A The state shown moves to Figure 3B During the state shown, the connection member 5 and the external connection terminal 3 can move in the opening direction D1 synchronously with the inner box 1. In particular, the connection member 5 can apply a driving force to the external connection terminal 3 in the opening direction D1 so that the external connection terminal 3 moves synchronously with the inner box 1. Figure 3C As shown, when the inner box 1 moves in the opening direction D1 beyond the limit position of its opening stroke, the external connection terminal 3 can be limited by the connection member 5 so as to be disconnected from the inner box 1. Here, the connection member 5 and the external connection terminal 3 are limited and do not continue to move in the opening direction D1, and the inner box 1 can continue to move in the opening direction D1. With the help of the connection member 5, the external connection terminal 3 can be moved synchronously with the inner box 1 during the opening stroke of the inner box 1, and the external connection terminal 3 can be disconnected from the inner box 1 when the inner box 1 moves in the opening direction D1 beyond the limit position of its opening stroke.

[0085] The external connection terminal 3 can be connected to the inner box 1 via a plug connection, for example, and the plug connection direction can be parallel to the opening direction D1. Figure 3C The inner box 1 is schematically shown to be in the extreme position of its opening stroke. Here, the external connection terminal 3 is limited by the connector 5 in the opening direction D1 so as to be disconnected from the inner box 1. If the inner box 1 continues to move in the opening direction D1, the plug connection between the inner box 1 and the external connection terminal 3 will be disengaged, so that the external connection terminal 3 is disconnected from the inner box 1. As a result, the inner box 1 can be completely withdrawn from the accommodating chamber 20, so that, for example, it can be convenient for cleaning or maintenance. Conversely, in the process of reinstalling the fully withdrawn inner box 1 into the accommodating chamber 20, the inner box 1 can be inserted into the accommodating chamber 20 along the closing direction D2 opposite to the opening direction D1. In this process, the inner box 1 can be reconnected to the external connection terminal 3 along the closing direction D2. This plug connection between the external connection terminal 3 and the inner box 1 can facilitate the complete withdrawal of the inner box 1 from the accommodating chamber 20 and the reinstallation of the fully withdrawn inner box 1 into the accommodating chamber 20 without the need for additional operations.

[0086] like Figure 3A , Figure 3B and Figure 3C As shown, the connector 5 may include, for example, a limiting housing 51, which is configured to limit the external connection terminal 3 in the opening direction D1 and the closing direction D2. The connector 5 may be fixedly connected to the external connection terminal 3 in the opening direction D1 through the limiting housing 51. The limiting housing 51 may particularly surround the external connection terminal 3 in the circumferential direction relative to the opening direction D1. Thus, in particular, when the connection between the external connection terminal 3 and the inner box 1 is formed or disconnected, a stable and reliable connection between the connector 5 and the external connection terminal 3 can be ensured.

[0087] Optionally, the connector 5 may include a sheath 52 for accommodating a partial section of the cable 30 connected to the external connection terminal 3. The sheath 52 may extend along the opening direction D1. The sheath 52 can constrain the section of the cable 30 adjacent to the external connection terminal 3, so that the section is still retained in the sheath 52 even if it is deformed, thereby preventing the section of the cable 30 adjacent to the external connection terminal 3 from uncontrolled movement and deformation during the opening and closing of the inner box 1. The cable 30 can be protected thereby. This also helps to prevent the inner box 1 from getting stuck due to the cable 30 or the cable protector 4 during movement. With the help of the sheath 52, for example, the length of the cable protector 4 can be reduced. The sheath 52 can particularly surround the cable 30 circumferentially relative to the opening direction D1. In other words, the sheath 52 can confine the cable 30 so that the cable 30 does not leave the sheath 52 in any direction perpendicular to the opening direction D1. Thus, the movement and deformation of the cable 30 can be effectively limited, and the cable 30 can be prevented from getting stuck between relatively moving components. The connector 5 can realize multiple functions in a simple and easy-to-install structure. Optionally, the first end of the cable protector 4 is attached to the end of the sheath 52 away from the external connection terminal 3, and the second end of the cable protector 4 is attached to the outer box 2. By means of the sheath 52 and the cable protector 4, for example, the cable 30 can be constrained over the entire length of the cable 30 in the accommodating cavity 20. With the help of the sheath 52, the required length of the cable protector 4 can be reduced.

[0088] Figure 4 The connector 5 of the detergent box assembly according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is schematically shown. In this embodiment, the connector 5 includes a limiting housing 51 and a sheath 52. The limiting housing 51 may, for example, include a first portion 511 and a second portion 512. In a cross section perpendicular to the opening direction D1, the first portion 511 and the second portion 512 may have a U-shaped cross section. The first portion 511 and the second portion 512 may be nested with each other so that the openings of the first portion 511 and the second portion 512 are opposite to each other and the two side walls of the second portion 512 clamp the two side walls of the first portion 511. Thus, the strength of the limiting housing 51 can be strengthened. The external connection terminal 3 may be located between the first portion 511 and the second portion 512. This structure helps to prevent the external connection terminal 3 from accidentally detaching from the limiting housing 51.

[0089] In a cross section perpendicular to the opening direction D1, the cross-sectional area of ​​the sheath 52 may be smaller than the cross-sectional area of ​​the limiting housing 51. Figure 4 As shown, the cross-sectional area of ​​the sheath 52 is significantly smaller than that of the limiting housing 51, for example, smaller than half of the cross-sectional area of ​​the limiting housing 51. The sheath 52 with a smaller cross-sectional area can effectively reduce the deformation of the accommodated cable 30.

[0090] The sheath 52 may include, for example, a first wall 521 and a second wall 522 extending in the opening direction D1 and opposite to each other, and the cable 30 is held between the first wall 521 and the second wall 522. The sheath 52 may also include at least one elastic arm 523 extending from one of the first wall 521 and the second wall 522 to the other in a cantilevered manner. The elastic arm 523 may be configured to be elastically deformable in a direction perpendicular to the opening direction D1. The at least one elastic arm 523 may include, for example, a plurality of elastic arms 523 distributed at intervals in the opening direction D1. Optionally, the sheath 52 may also include a third wall opposite to the elastic arm 523, which extends in the opening direction D1 and connects the first wall 521 to the second wall 522. The cable 30 may press the elastic arm 523 from the outside of the elastic arm 523 so as to enter the sheath 52 by means of the elastic deformation of the elastic arm 523. Therefore, the cable 30 can be installed in the sheath 52 in a simple manner, wherein no additional components or tools are required. In the non-deformed state of the elastic arm 523, the distance between the elastic arm 523 and the other of the first wall 521 and the second wall 522 may be smaller than the diameter of the cable 30. Thus, the elastic arm 523 can hold the cable 30 in the sheath 52. The distance may be set to be greater than or equal to 0. As an example, Figure 4 As shown, the elastic arm 523 may extend from the first wall 521 to the second wall 522. The elastic arm 523 may include a narrowing section adjacent to the first wall 521 and an expanding section away from the first wall 521, wherein the narrowing section has a smaller cross-sectional area than the expanding section. This facilitates elastic deformation of the elastic arm 523.

[0091] exist Figure 3A , Figure 3B and Figure 3C In the illustrated embodiment, the cable protection member 4 is configured as a drag chain 42. The drag chain 42 includes a plurality of drag chain units 420. Adjacent drag chain units 420 of the plurality of drag chain units 420 are rotatably connected relative to each other. The cable 30 can pass through each drag chain unit 420 and extend in the drag chain 42. During the opening and closing process of the inner box 1, the drag chain 42 can be deformed in a predetermined manner, thereby restricting the movement and deformation of the cable 30, see Figure 3A and Figure 3B . The drag chain 42 can be arranged in particular so that adjacent drag chain units 420 of the plurality of drag chain units 420 are rotatably connected relative to each other around a rotation axis extending in the vertical direction. This helps to make the detergent box assembly have a compact structure. In particular, there is no need to increase the height of the outer box 2. Optionally, the plurality of drag chain units 420 are all located in the same horizontal plane. Thereby, the drag chain 42 can be prevented from obstructing the movement of the inner box 1. In particular, when the inner box 1 is in an open state, the drag chain 42 will not sag below the inner box 1. It should be understood that it is acceptable for the drag chain 42 to have a slight sag.

[0092] Figure 5 Schematically shows some components of a detergent box assembly according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. Figure 5 As shown, the plurality of drag chain units 420 of the drag chain 42 may include a first end unit 421 and a second end unit 422 respectively located at both ends of the drag chain 42 and at least one intermediate unit 423 located between the first end unit 421 and the second end unit 422. It is particularly advantageous that the at least one intermediate unit 423 is supported only by the drag chain unit 420 adjacent thereto. For example, the first end unit 421 may be mounted to the connector 5, and the second end unit 422 may be mounted to the top wall 21 of the outer box 2. The intermediate unit 423 is located above the inner box 1 in a suspended manner without contacting the inner box 1 and the outer box 2. Thus, the drag chain 42 can be prevented from rubbing against the inner box 1 or the outer box 2 during movement, thereby preventing wear and noise caused thereby. Arranging the drag chain 42 so that its drag chain units 420 are all located at the same horizontal plane helps to arrange the intermediate unit 423 of the drag chain 42 in a suspended manner. The cable protector 4 can be arranged above the inner box 1 in a suspended manner so that the cable protector 4 does not contact the inner box 1.

[0093] According to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the first end of the drag chain 42 is attached to the end of the sheath 52 away from the external connection terminal 3, and the second end of the drag chain 42 is attached to the outer box 2. The sheath 52 can reduce the length of the drag chain 42, thereby helping to prevent the drag chain 42 from sagging. In this case, adjacent drag chain units 420 of the plurality of drag chain units 420 are rotatably connected relative to each other around a rotation axis extending in a vertical direction, which is particularly helpful in preventing the drag chain 42 from sagging. With the help of the sheath 52, it is helpful to make the plurality of drag chain units 420 all located in the same horizontal plane.

[0094] See also Figure 3A When the inner box 1 is in the closed position, the two ends of the sheath 52 are respectively located in front of and behind the second end of the drag chain 42 in the opening direction D1. Figure 3C, when the inner box 1 is in the extreme position of the opening stroke, the end of the sheath 52 away from the external connection terminal 3 is located in front of the second end of the drag chain 42 in the opening direction D1. This is conducive to preventing the drag chain 42 from sagging. With the help of the sheath 52, the relative positions of the two ends of the drag chain 42 during the movement can be set as needed. In the case where the connector 5 is not provided with a sheath 52, the first end of the drag chain 42 can be attached to the limiting housing 51 of the connector 5 or to the external connection terminal 3. When the inner box 1 is in the closed position and in the extreme position of the opening stroke, the first end of the drag chain 42 will be located in front of the second end of the drag chain 42 in the opening direction D1. This arrangement will make the drag chain 42 more likely to sag. In other words, this arrangement makes it difficult for the drag chain 42 to still meet the length requirements of the cable 30 connected to the external connection terminal 3 while ensuring that it does not sag.

[0095] like Figure 5 As shown, the sheath 52 may terminate at a first position along the closing direction D2 on one side facing the second end of the drag chain 42, and terminate at a second position along the closing direction D2 on one side facing away from the second end of the drag chain 42, and the second position may be located behind the first position in the opening direction D1. This helps ensure that the drag chain 42 is deformed in a predetermined manner.

[0096] Figure 6 The diagram schematically shows the Figure 5 Partial components of the detergent box assembly are shown.

[0097] like Figure 6 As shown, the limiting housing 51 may include a first part 511 and a second part 512. The external connection terminal 3 may be configured to be installed to the first part 511 along a mounting direction perpendicular to the opening direction D1 so as to be limited by the first part 511 in a direction perpendicular to the mounting direction. For example, the first part 511 may be formed with a slot extending along the mounting direction, and the external connection terminal 3 may be inserted along the slot and limited in the opening direction D1. The second part 512 may be configured to be installed to the first part 511 along a mounting direction perpendicular to the opening direction D1. The first part 511 and the second part 512 may be engaged with each other, for example, by a snap connection. The first part 511 may be configured as an integral component with the sheath 52 in particular. Through this connector 5, a stable and reliable connection between the connector 5 and the external connection terminal 3 can be achieved in a simple manner. The assembly process between the external connection terminal 3 and the connector 5 is simple and convenient.

[0098] Back to Figure 3A and Figure 3B The detergent box assembly may further include, for example, a driving mechanism 6 for providing a driving force to move the inner box 1 outward from the accommodating chamber 20 along the opening direction D1 during the opening stroke of the inner box 1 .

[0099] Optionally, during the opening stroke of the inner box 1, the inner box 1 can be driven by the drive mechanism 6 so as to move outward from the accommodating chamber 20 along the opening direction D1. The drive mechanism 6 can independently drive the external connection terminal 3 relative to the inner box 1 to move along the opening direction D1 so that the external connection terminal 3 remains connected to the inner box 1. "The drive mechanism 6 independently drives the external connection terminal 3 relative to the inner box 1" means that the force transmission path or motion transmission path of the drive mechanism 6 driving the external connection terminal 3 does not pass through the inner box 1. For example, the drive mechanism 6 can directly drive the external connection terminal 3, or indirectly drive the external connection terminal 3 through a component other than the inner box 1. It is particularly advantageous that during the opening stroke of the inner box 1, the external connection terminal 3 is not driven by the inner box 1 to move outward, but is driven by the drive mechanism 6 independently of the inner box 1. Compared with the case where the external connection terminal 3 is driven by the inner box 1 and moves outward therewith, the connection between the external connection terminal 3 and the inner box 1 will be more stable. This is particularly advantageous for the external connection terminal 3 used to form an electrical connection with the inner box 1. Thus, the connection between the inner box 1 and the external connection terminal 3 can be prevented from loosening during the opening stroke of the inner box 1, which may cause the electrical connection between the two to be unreliable or invalid. If the connection between the inner box 1 and the external connection terminal 3 is loosened and the inner box 1 and the external connection terminal 3 are not reconnected when the inner box 1 is closed, the washing machine may not operate normally. According to the present invention, when the inner box 1 is opened, a stable and reliable electrical connection between the inner box 1 and the external connection terminal 3 can still be maintained. This can also provide support for the inner box 2 to achieve specific functions, such as detection functions, when it is opened.

[0100] As an example, the driving mechanism 6 may drive the external connection terminal 3 and the inner box 1 in parallel. For example, the driving mechanism 6 may include a driving element 61 movably arranged relative to the outer box 2, and the driving element 61 may be connected to the external connection terminal 3 and the inner box 1 in parallel, respectively, so that when the driving element 61 moves, the external connection terminal 3 and the inner box 1 may move synchronously under the drive of the driving element 61. Optionally, the driving mechanism 6 may include a driving element 61 movably arranged relative to the outer box 2. The connector 5 may connect the driving element 61 to the external connection terminal 3. Thus, the driving element 61 may drive the external connection terminal 3 through the connector 5.

[0101] For example, the connecting member 5 connects the driving element 61 to the external connection terminal 3 in a manner that the driving element 61 cannot move relative to the direction parallel to the opening direction D1. This helps to simplify the structure of the detergent box assembly and facilitates use. Figure 3A and Figure 3B, with the help of the connecting member 5, when the driving element 61 moves along the opening direction D1, the external connection terminal 3 will move accordingly. Furthermore, the external connection terminal 3 can push the inner box 1 to move along the opening direction D1. Conversely, when the opened inner box 1 is inserted into the accommodating chamber 20 along the closing direction D2, the inner box 1 can push the external connection terminal 3 to move along the closing direction D2. The driving element 61 can move along the closing direction D2 with the external connection terminal 3 with the help of the connecting member 5. Thus, the driving element 61 can be reset.

[0102] The drive element 61 can be fixed to the connector 5 by a threaded connection, for example. For example, a screw can pass through the drive element 61 and be screwed into a threaded hole of the connector 5 to fix the drive element 61 to the connector 5, in particular to the limiting housing 51.

[0103] Optionally, the driving mechanism 6 can be connected to the inner box 1 only through the connecting member 5 and the external connecting terminal 3, so as to indirectly drive the inner box 1 to move along the opening direction D1 through the connecting member 5 and the external connecting terminal 3. Therefore, the external connecting terminal 3 drives the inner box 1 to move outward from the accommodating chamber 20 along the opening direction D1 under the drive of the driving mechanism 6. The driving element 61 does not need to be directly connected to the inner box 1. As a result, the structure of the detergent box assembly can be simplified and convenient to use. For example, for the purpose of cleaning or maintenance, the inner box 1 can be completely withdrawn from the accommodating chamber 20. In this process, since the driving element 61 is not directly connected to the inner box 1, there is no need to perform an additional operation of disassembling or engaging the driving element 61 with the inner box 1.

[0104] According to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the outer box 2 may be provided with a limiting structure 23. For example, the limiting structure 23 may be configured to directly limit the limit position of the driving element 61 moving relative to the outer box 2 along the opening direction D1, thereby indirectly limiting the limit position of the connecting member 5 moving relative to the outer box 2 along the opening direction D1. The limiting structure 23 may, for example, be formed as a stopper located at the upper side of the top wall 21. The stopper may be arranged to block the driving element 61 in front of the driving element 61 when the inner box 1 moves beyond the limit position of its opening stroke along the opening direction D1.

[0105] Alternatively or additionally, the limiting structure 23 may be configured to directly limit the limit position of the movement of the connecting member 5 relative to the outer box 2 along the opening direction D1, thereby indirectly limiting the limit position of the movement of the driving element 61 relative to the outer box 2 along the opening direction D1. For example, the limiting structure 23 may be formed as a stopper located at the lower side of the top wall 21, which blocks the connecting member 5 in front of the connecting member 5 when the inner box 1 moves beyond the limit position of its opening stroke along the opening direction D1.

[0106] Fig. 7A and Figure 7BA detergent box assembly according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is schematically shown, wherein: Fig. 7A and Figure 7B The inner box 1 is shown in a closed state and an open state respectively. The inner box 1, the external connection terminals 3, the connection members 5 and other components are not fully shown because they are blocked by the outer box 2.

[0107] In this embodiment, the driving element 61 may be configured as a gear rack, which may be arranged on the outer side of the outer box 2 facing away from the accommodating chamber 20. This may make the detergent box assembly more stable and reliable, and help reduce the volume of the outer box 2. When the inner box 1 is configured to be automatically ejected with the aid of the driving mechanism 6, the internal structure of the detergent box assembly is often more complicated. Providing the gear rack on the outer side of the outer box 2 helps to simplify the structure inside the outer box 2 and prevent interference between moving parts. For example, the gear rack may be arranged on the upper side of the top wall 21 of the outer box 2. In particular, the gear rack may be arranged in the middle of the inner box 1 in the width direction perpendicular to the opening direction D1, so that the inner box 1 can move more stably relative to the outer box 2. See FIG. Fig. 7A and Figure 7B , the outer box 2 may, for example, be provided with a guide groove 24 extending along the opening direction D1 at its outer side facing away from the accommodating chamber 20. The rack may be slidably arranged in the guide groove 24. The guide groove 24 may be provided with a through hole 25, through which the rack is connected to the external connection terminal 3 located in the accommodating chamber 20. The guide groove 24 and / or the through hole 25 may also be used as a limiting structure 23. That is, when the inner box 1 moves in the opening direction D1 beyond the limit position of its opening stroke, the rack abuts against the end of the guide groove 24 and / or the through hole 25 and is blocked, so that it cannot continue to move in the opening direction D1. Optionally, the through hole 25 may limit the range of motion of the driving element 61 at both ends, so that the length of the through hole 25 extending in the opening direction D1 may correspond to the length of the opening stroke of the inner box 1.

[0108] Optionally, the drive mechanism 6 may also include a damping gear 62 for engaging with a rack. The damping gear 62 may be arranged at the outer side of the outer box 2 facing away from the accommodating chamber 20. For example, the damping gear 62 may be arranged on the top wall 21 of the outer box 2. The damping gear 62 may be located beside the guide groove 24 and arranged approximately centrally relative to the guide groove 24. In the process of the rack driving the inner box 1 to open, the damping gear 62 engaged with the rack rotates, thereby generating a damping force. Thus, the movement of the rack and the inner box 1 can be made smoother. In an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the damping force generated by the damping gear 62 may be proportional to its rotation speed. Therefore, the faster the moving speed of the rack, the faster the rotation speed of the damping gear 62, and the greater the damping force generated, and vice versa. The damping gear 62 may be, for example, a hydraulic damping gear, a spring damping gear, a rubber damping gear, etc.

[0109] The driving mechanism 6 may further include an elastic member 63 for providing a driving force to move the inner box 1 outward along the opening direction D1 during the opening stroke of the inner box 1. The elastic member 63 is arranged on the outer side of the outer box 2 facing away from the accommodating cavity 20, one end of the elastic member 63 is fixed to the rack, and the other end of the elastic member 63 is fixed to the outer box 2. The elastic member 63 may be implemented as a spring, or may include a component made of other elastic materials. For example, Fig. 7A As shown, when the inner box 1 is in a closed state, the elastic member 63 can be stretched and locked by the locking mechanism (not shown here) of the detergent box assembly. When the locking mechanism is unlocked, the elastic member 63 can shrink and pull the drive element 61 to move in the opening direction D1. Furthermore, the drive element 61 drives the external connection terminal 3 and the inner box 1 to move in the opening direction D1. In this process, the elastic member 63 only needs to provide a force that can overcome the friction force to push the external connection terminal 3 and the inner box 1, without having to additionally provide a force that can release the connection between the external connection terminal 3 and the inner box 1. Thereby, for example, the deformation amount and / or elastic modulus required for the elastic member 63 can be reduced accordingly. This helps to improve the feasibility and reliability of opening the inner box 1 by the elastic force of the elastic member 63. As shown Figure 7B As shown, when the inner box 1 is in the open state, the elastic member 63 can be in a relaxed state, for example. When the user pushes the inner box 1 to move into the accommodating chamber 20 along the closing direction D2, the external connection terminal 3 can be pushed by the inner box 1 and drive the driving element 61 along the closing direction D2. As a result, the elastic member 63 can be reset to the stretched state and can be locked by the locking mechanism again. During the reset process, the force required to be provided by the user can also be reduced accordingly.

[0110] In an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the driving mechanism 6 may also include a motor, which may be connected to the driving element 61. For example, the motor may rotate in response to a user's operation to drive the driving element 61. The driving element 61 may also include a screw, a slider, and the like.

[0111] Although specific embodiments have been described above, these embodiments are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure, even when only a single embodiment is described with respect to specific features. The feature examples provided in the present disclosure are intended to be illustrative, not limiting, unless otherwise stated. In specific implementations, multiple features may be combined with each other as required and as technically feasible. In particular, features in different embodiments may also be combined with each other. Various substitutions, changes, and modifications may also be conceived without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. A detergent box assembly, wherein: The detergent box assembly comprises: An inner box (1) for containing detergent; An outer box (2) is provided with a receiving cavity (20) for receiving the inner box (1), and the inner box (1) can move outward from the receiving cavity (20) along an opening direction; an external connection terminal (3) which is detachably connected to the inner box (1) so as to form an electrical connection with the inner box (1); and A deformable cable protection member (4) is used to accommodate at least a partial section of a cable (30) connected to an external connection terminal (3), the cable protection member (4) being configured to be deformable synchronously with the movement of the external connection terminal (3) during the movement of the external connection terminal (3) in an opening direction and a closing direction opposite to the opening direction.

2. The detergent box assembly according to claim 1, wherein: During the opening stroke of the inner box (1), the external connection terminal (3) moves synchronously with the inner box (1) in the opening direction so as to maintain connection with the inner box (1); When the inner box (1) moves in the opening direction beyond the limit position of its opening stroke, the external connection terminal (3) is restricted in the opening direction and is disconnected from the inner box (1).

3. The detergent box assembly according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: One end of the cable protection member (4) is connected to the external connection terminal (3) in a kinematically coupled manner, and the other end of the cable protection member (4) is attached to the outer box (2); and / or The cable protection member (4) is configured to be capable of undergoing telescopic deformation and / or bending deformation in sync with the movement of the external connection terminal (3); and / or The cable protection element (4) comprises at least one of the following: a corrugated tube (41), a telescopic sleeve, and a drag chain (42).

4. The detergent box assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein: The cable protection element (4) is configured as a drag chain (42), wherein the drag chain (42) comprises a plurality of drag chain units (420), wherein: The drag chain (42) is arranged so that adjacent drag chain units (420) among the plurality of drag chain units (420) are rotatably connected relative to each other around a rotation axis extending in a vertical direction; and / or The plurality of drag chain units (420) are all located on the same horizontal plane; and / or The plurality of drag chain units (420) include a first end unit (421) and a second end unit (422) respectively located at two ends of the drag chain (42) and an intermediate unit (423) located between the first end unit (421) and the second end unit (422), wherein the intermediate unit (423) is supported only by the drag chain unit (420) adjacent thereto.

5. The detergent box assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein: The detergent box assembly further comprises a connecting member (5), wherein the connecting member (5) connects the external connection terminal (3) to the cable protection member (4).

6. The detergent box assembly according to claim 5, wherein: During the opening stroke of the inner box (1), the connecting piece (5) and the external connecting terminal (3) move synchronously with the inner box (1) in the opening direction; When the inner box (1) moves in the opening direction beyond the limit position of its opening stroke, the external connection terminal (3) can be limited by the connection member (5) so as to be disconnected from the inner box (1).

7. The detergent box assembly according to claim 5 or 6, wherein: The connecting piece (5) comprises: A limiting housing (51) configured to limit the external connection terminal (3) in an opening direction and a closing direction; and A sheath (52) for accommodating a partial section of a cable (30) connected to an external connection terminal (3), the sheath (52) extending in an opening direction.

8. The detergent box assembly according to claim 7, wherein: In a cross section perpendicular to the opening direction, the cross-sectional area of ​​the sheath (52) is smaller than the cross-sectional area of ​​the limiting housing (51); and / or The limiting housing (51) surrounds the external connection terminal (3) in a circumferential direction relative to the opening direction; and / or The sheath (52) circumferentially surrounds the cable (30) relative to the opening direction.

9. The detergent box assembly according to claim 7 or 8, wherein: The sheath (52) includes a first wall (521) and a second wall (522) extending in an opening direction and facing each other, the cable (30) being held between the first wall (521) and the second wall (522), and the sheath (52) further includes at least one elastic arm (523) extending from one of the first wall (521) and the second wall (522) to the other in a cantilever manner, wherein: The elastic arm (523) is configured to be elastically deformable in a direction perpendicular to the opening direction; and / or In a non-deformed state of the elastic arm (523), a distance between the elastic arm (523) and the other of the first wall (521) and the second wall (522) is smaller than a diameter of the cable (30).

10. The detergent box assembly according to any one of claims 7 to 9, wherein: The cable protection member (4) is configured as a drag chain (42), a first end of the drag chain (42) being attached to an end of the sheath (52) away from the external connection terminal (3), and a second end of the drag chain (42) being attached to the outer box (2).

11. The detergent box assembly according to claim 10, wherein: The drag chain (42) includes a plurality of drag chain units (420), wherein: The drag chain (42) is arranged so that adjacent drag chain units (420) among the plurality of drag chain units (420) are rotatably connected relative to each other around a rotation axis extending in a vertical direction; and / or The plurality of drag chain units (420) are all located on the same horizontal plane; and / or The plurality of drag chain units (420) include a first end unit (421) and a second end unit (422) respectively located at two ends of the drag chain (42) and an intermediate unit (423) located between the first end unit (421) and the second end unit (422), the first end unit (421) and the second end unit (422) being respectively attached to the connecting piece (5) and the outer box (2), and the intermediate unit (423) being supported only by the drag chain unit (420) adjacent thereto.

12. The detergent box assembly according to claim 10 or 11, wherein: When the inner box (1) is in the closed position, the two ends of the sheath (52) are respectively located in front of and behind the second end of the drag chain (42) in the opening direction; When the inner box (1) is at the extreme position of the opening stroke, the end of the sheath (52) away from the external connection terminal (3) is located in front of the second end of the drag chain (42) in the opening direction.

13. The detergent box assembly according to any one of claims 10 to 12, wherein: The cover (52) terminates at a first position along the closing direction on the side facing the second end of the drag chain (42), and terminates at a second position along the closing direction on the side facing away from the second end of the drag chain (42), the second position being located behind the first position in the opening direction.

14. The detergent box assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein: The inner box (1) is provided with a recess (13) for accommodating the cable protection member (4), wherein, when the inner box (1) is in a closed position, the cable protection member (4) is located in the recess (13); and / or The cable protection member (4) is arranged above the inner box (1) in a suspended manner so that the cable protection member (4) does not contact the inner box (1).

15. A washing machine, wherein: The washing machine comprises a detergent box assembly according to any one of claims 1-14.

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