Clothing care agent feeding device, corresponding receiving device and washing care equipment

Abstract

Relates to the field of washing care equipment, and discloses a receiving device (2) for receiving a clothes care agent dispensing device (1), comprising: a base (21) comprising a receiving structure (211) for receiving the clothes care agent dispensing device (1); the connector (22) is arranged on the base, is used for establishing fluid connection between the atomization power source (3) and a power interface (11) of the clothes care agent feeding device, and is provided with a first connecting port (221) connected with the atomization power source and a second connecting port (222) connected with the power interface; the connector is further provided with an unlocking device (223) used for releasing the locking connection between the second connecting port and the power interface. And an unlocking mechanism (23) mounted on the base and having an operating element (231) allowing the unlocking connection to be released via the unlocking device by indirectly operating the operating element. The invention further discloses a corresponding clothes care agent feeding device and washing care equipment. The operation is convenient.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to the field of washing and care equipment, and in particular to a receiving device for receiving a clothing care agent delivery device, a corresponding clothing care agent delivery device and a corresponding washing and care equipment. Background Art

[0002] With the development of society and the continuous improvement of people's living standards, washing machines, washing and drying machines, clothes dryers, and dryer cabinets have entered ordinary people's homes. However, the functions provided by these machines currently on the market are relatively simple, and the interfaces open to consumers for operation are generally only detergents, softeners, and disinfectants.

[0003] The further improvement of the quality of life has prompted consumers to pursue and expect more from washing and drying clothes, such as fragrance, long-term antibacterial, skin care, etc. Unfortunately, it is difficult for current products to meet the personalized and diverse needs of consumers.

[0004] The effects of fragrance, long-term antibacterial, skin care, etc. need to be achieved by applying corresponding substances to clothing at the appropriate stage. At present, there is still no suitable way to apply these substances to clothing, so there is a need for further improvement in this aspect.

[0005] To this end, the applicant proposed a systematic solution in a series of applications filed with the Chinese Patent Office on August 8, 2022, proposing to apply these substances with a spray system. The application numbers of these applications are: 202210949605.X, 202210951725.3, 202210951723.4, 202210951324.8, 202210949610.0, 202210950012.5, 202210951727.2, 202210958379.1, 202210950135.9, 202210951872.0. Their contents are hereby incorporated herein in their entirety, that is, their entire contents should be regarded as part of the specification of the present invention, just as they are recorded herein. Summary of the invention

[0006] In order to overcome one of the above-mentioned shortcomings and / or other possible shortcomings in the prior art not mentioned herein, the object of the present invention is to provide an improved receiving device for receiving a clothing care agent dispensing device, a corresponding clothing care agent dispensing device and a corresponding washing and care device.

[0007] According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a receiving device for receiving a clothing care agent dispensing device, comprising: a base, the base comprising a receiving structure for receiving the clothing care agent dispensing device; a connector mounted on the base, the connector being used to establish a fluid connection between an atomization power source and a power interface of the clothing care agent dispensing device and having a first connection port connected to the atomization power source and a second connection port connected to the power interface, and the connector also having an unlocking device for releasing the locked connection between the second connection port and the power interface; and an unlocking mechanism mounted on the base, the unlocking mechanism having an operating element and allowing the locked connection to be released via the unlocking device by indirectly operating the operating element.

[0008] According to an optional embodiment of the present invention, the receiving structure and the operating element have substantially the same orientation and / or the same height.

[0009] According to an optional embodiment of the present invention, the receiving structure is provided with a through hole, and the connector is aligned with the through hole and is at least partially located behind the receiving structure.

[0010] According to an alternative embodiment of the present invention, the connector is substantially centrally located within the area of ​​the receiving structure.

[0011] According to an optional embodiment of the present invention, the unlocking mechanism is at least partially located behind the receiving structure.

[0012] According to an optional embodiment of the present invention, the unlocking device is configured to be blocked at least in the locked connection state and not allow an operator to access it for operational purposes.

[0013] According to an optional embodiment of the present invention, the unlocking device includes a linearly movable sleeve, which is configured to be in a predetermined position when in the locked connection state, and to release the locked connection when moving away from the predetermined position in a predetermined direction, for example, in a direction away from the receiving structure.

[0014] According to an optional embodiment of the present invention, the receiving device is configured to push the clothing care agent dispensing device in a direction away from the second connecting port when the locking connection is released.

[0015] According to an optional embodiment of the present invention, the receiving device is configured to generate a sound when the locking connection is established and / or released.

[0016] According to an optional embodiment of the present invention, the first connecting port is configured as a male plug.

[0017] According to an optional embodiment of the present invention, the second connection port is configured as a female connection port and is capable of automatically establishing the locking connection when the power interface is inserted.

[0018] According to an optional embodiment of the present invention, the receiving structure is provided with an alignment structure, such as a groove, which allows the locking connection to be established only when the clothing care agent dispensing device is seated on the receiving structure in a certain orientation.

[0019] According to an optional embodiment of the present invention, the receiving structure is configured as a recess to allow the locking connection to be automatically established by seating the clothing care agent dispensing device in the recess.

[0020] According to an optional embodiment of the present invention, the unlocking mechanism is configured as a mechanical mechanism, and the unlocking device is configured to release the locking connection through a mechanical pushing action generated by the unlocking mechanism.

[0021] According to an optional embodiment of the present invention, the base is configured as a drawable structure.

[0022] According to an optional embodiment of the present invention, the receiving device further comprises a resetting device for resetting the unlocking mechanism.

[0023] According to an optional embodiment of the present invention, the receiving device further comprises a mounting structure for detachably mounting the connector on the base from a side opposite to the receiving structure.

[0024] According to an optional embodiment of the present invention, the unlocking mechanism includes a lever mechanism, and the operating element can actuate the lever mechanism.

[0025] According to an optional embodiment of the present invention, the base has an outer end and an inner end, the receiving structure is located between the outer end and the inner end, and the operating element is located at the outer end.

[0026] According to an optional embodiment of the present invention, the resetting device is configured to be able to reset the operating element.

[0027] According to an optional embodiment of the present invention, the lever mechanism includes a swing arm at least partially located behind the receiving structure, the swing arm having a first end, a second end and an intermediate section located between the first end and the second end, wherein the first end is actuated by the operating element, the second end is movably retained on the retaining structure at the inner end, and the intermediate section is configured to be able to actuate the unlocking device to release the locked connection.

[0028] According to an optional embodiment of the present invention, the receiving device also includes a protruding structure, the mounting structure includes a fixed bracket, the fixed bracket includes an embracing structure circumferentially embracing the connector, a lifting structure for lifting the connector, and a fixing structure for fixing to the protruding structure, and the protruding structure is located radially outside the embracing structure.

[0029] According to an optional embodiment of the present invention, the resetting device acts on the lever mechanism.

[0030] According to an optional embodiment of the present invention, the middle section is at least partially located behind the receiving structure and has a gap to allow the power interface to pass through the gap to establish the locking connection, and the edge area of ​​the gap is configured to be able to act on the unlocking device to release the locking connection.

[0031] According to an optional embodiment of the present invention, the protruding structure includes a first column and a second column which are preferably hollow and are respectively located on both sides of the embracing structure.

[0032] According to an optional embodiment of the present invention, the resetting device is retained on the mounting structure and / or the protruding structure.

[0033] According to an optional embodiment of the present invention, the resetting device acts on the swing arm.

[0034] According to an optional embodiment of the present invention, the protruding structure passes through the notch.

[0035] According to an optional embodiment of the present invention, the notch is configured as a substantially oblong hole.

[0036] According to an optional embodiment of the present invention, the mounting structure is configured in a T-shape.

[0037] According to an optional embodiment of the present invention, the reset device includes a spiral spring, which is sleeved on the first column and / or the second column, has one end spanning the notch and pressing against the swing arm, and has the other end supported on the fixed structure.

[0038] According to an optional embodiment of the present invention, the retaining structure is at least partially configured as a shaft, and the second end includes at least one U-shaped claw for clamping onto the shaft.

[0039] According to an optional embodiment of the present invention, the protruding structure is integrally formed on the base.

[0040] According to an optional embodiment of the present invention, the fixing bracket is formed integrally.

[0041] According to an optional embodiment of the present invention, the resetting device is arranged adjacent to the first end.

[0042] According to an optional embodiment of the present invention, the first end and / or the middle section is / are at least partially configured in a strip shape.

[0043] According to an optional embodiment of the present invention, the swing arm is at least partially configured to be substantially U-shaped, and the side facing the receiving structure is preferably flat.

[0044] According to an optional embodiment of the present invention, the shaft has a tapered section with a relatively small diameter and a retaining section with a relatively large diameter, and the U-shaped claw is configured to be radially inserted into the tapered section first and then reliably retained on the retaining section through axial movement.

[0045] According to an optional embodiment of the present invention, the at least one U-shaped claw includes two U-shaped claws arranged spaced apart from each other.

[0046] According to an optional embodiment of the present invention, the at least one U-shaped claw is pivotably held on the holding section.

[0047] According to an optional embodiment of the present invention, the base is integrally formed, preferably integrally injection molded.

[0048] According to an optional embodiment of the present invention, the operating element is configured as a button.

[0049] According to an optional embodiment of the present invention, the connector and the power interface are configured as quick connectors, in particular, standard quick connectors.

[0050] According to an optional embodiment of the present invention, the receiving device further comprises a cover which is sleeved on the unlocking device to improve the reliability of the unlocking mechanism transmitting the actuating action to the unlocking device.

[0051] According to a second aspect of the present invention, a clothing care agent dispensing device is provided, wherein the clothing care agent dispensing device is configured to be used in conjunction with a receiving device for receiving the clothing care agent dispensing device according to any of the above embodiments.

[0052] According to a third aspect of the present invention, there is provided a washing and care device, such as a washing machine, a washer-dryer, a clothes dryer or a clothes drying cabinet, the washing and care device comprising a receiving device for receiving a clothing care agent dispensing device according to any of the above embodiments.

[0053] According to some exemplary embodiments of the present invention, user operation is convenient and the structure itself is relatively simple. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0054] 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:

[0055] Figure 1 A perspective view of a receiving device receiving a clothing care agent dispensing device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0056] Figure 2 Shown separately Figure 1 A three-dimensional view of a clothing care agent dispensing device.

[0057] Figure 3 Shown separately Figure 1 A stereoscopic view of a receiving device in FIG.

[0058] Figure 4 Shows Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of a receiving device receiving a clothing care agent dispensing device is shown.

[0059] Figure 5 Shows Figure 1 The receiving device shown receives the clothing care agent dispensing device, which is a three-dimensional view viewed from the bottom side.

[0060] Figure 6 A cross-sectional view of a conventional quick connector is shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0061] In order to make the technical problems, technical solutions and beneficial technical effects to be solved by the present invention clearer, the present invention will be further described in detail 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, and each embodiment may share the same view or multiple views for description, but all features appearing in the same figure cannot be interpreted as features that must be possessed by an embodiment. On the contrary, as long as they are not mutually exclusive technically, they can be combined in any suitable manner. Moreover, for the sake of simplicity, different embodiments of different aspects may be presented in the same specific design, but such presentation does not mean that the embodiments of these aspects should appear together. The disassembly and / or combination of all possible embodiments and / or technical features should also take into account the description of the specification and the content that can be directly and unambiguously determined by those skilled in the art based on the description of the specification.

[0062] Before starting the description, it should be pointed out that, for the sake of convenience, this document may use directional terms or direction terms for description, which are relative to the normal use state of the washing and care equipment or the receiving device. Those skilled in the art can clearly understand this from the description of the present invention without causing confusion. In this case, the directional terms and direction terms should not be simply interpreted as the directional or direction in any state.

[0063] First, for ease of understanding, the description in the background technology section of the present invention may be reviewed or recalled. The present invention is mainly directed to a receiving device for receiving a clothing care agent delivery device in a spray system to facilitate user operation.

[0064] Figure 1 A perspective view of a receiving device 2 receiving a clothing care agent dispensing device 1 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0065] Figure 2 Shown separately Figure 1 A three-dimensional view of the clothing care agent dispensing device 1 in FIG.

[0066] Figure 3 Shown separately Figure 1 A stereoscopic view of the receiving device 2 in FIG.

[0067] Figure 4 Shows Figure 1 The cross-sectional view of the receiving device 2 receiving the clothing care agent dispensing device 1 is shown.

[0068] Figure 5 Shows Figure 1 The receiving device 2 receiving the clothing care agent dispensing device 1 is shown in a perspective view as viewed from the bottom side.

[0069] First, according to one aspect of the present invention, Figure 1-Figure 4 As shown, a receiving device 2 for receiving a clothing care agent dispensing device 1 is provided, comprising: a base 21, the base 21 comprising a receiving structure 211 for receiving the clothing care agent dispensing device 1; a connector 22 mounted on the base 21, the connector 22 being used to connect the atomizing power source 3 ( Figure 1In the figure, it is schematically shown only by dotted lines, and a fluid connection can be established between compressed air) and the power interface 11 of the clothing care agent dispensing device 1, and the connector 22 has a first connection port 221 connected to the atomization power source 3 and a second connection port 222 connected to the power interface 11, and the connector 22 also has an unlocking device 223 for releasing the locked connection between the second connection port 222 and the power interface 11; and an unlocking mechanism 23 installed on the base 21, the unlocking mechanism 23 has an operating element 231 and allows the locked connection to be released via the unlocking device 223 by indirectly operating the operating element 231.

[0070] It is understandable that the locked connection area between the second connection port 222 and the power interface 11 is difficult for the user to access, and it is difficult for the user to directly operate the unlocking device 223, or constructing the unlocking device 223 at a position where the user can easily directly operate it may bring other unfavorable structural problems. The present invention introduces an operating element 231 that is easy for the user to operate, and "leads" the unlocking device 223 to a position that is easy for the user to access, so as to facilitate the user to operate to replace the clothing care agent dispensing device 1, which opens up the situation and provides flexibility for the design of the receiving device 2. The clothing care agent dispensing device 1 can be a commercially available product, which contains clothing care agent.

[0071] According to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, Figure 1 , Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, the receiving structure 211 and the operating element 231 have substantially the same orientation and / or the same height. The substantially same orientation is especially upward, so that the user inserts the clothing care agent dispensing device 1 and operates the operating element 231 in the same direction, which greatly facilitates the user's operation. Having substantially the same height also brings corresponding operational convenience.

[0072] like Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the receiving structure 211 is provided with a through hole 2111, and the connector 22 is aligned with the through hole 2111 and is at least partially located behind the receiving structure 211. "Behind" refers to the side of the receiving structure 211 that receives the clothing care agent dispensing device 1. The connector 22 is arranged in this way, on the one hand, to improve the neatness of the device, and on the other hand, to prevent misoperation.

[0073] According to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the connector 22 is approximately centered in the area of ​​the receiving structure 211. Of course, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the position of the connector 22 is not limited thereto, but can be designed accordingly according to the shape of the clothing care agent dispensing device 1 and the arrangement of the power interface 11 on the clothing care agent dispensing device 1. However, for the clothing care agent dispensing device 1 that is cylindrical in shape, especially cylindrical in shape, this design is very advantageous.

[0074] like Figure 4 As shown, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the unlocking mechanism 23 is at least partially located behind the receiving structure 211. This means that the unlocking mechanism 23 is located from the side of the receiving structure 211 (for Figure 1-Figure 5 In the illustrated embodiment, the unlocking device 223 extends behind the receiving structure 211 to operate there.

[0075] like Figure 1 , Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the unlocking device 223 is configured to be blocked and not allow the operator to perform operational access at least in the locked connection state. More preferably, the unlocking device 223 does not allow the operator to perform operational access even in the unlocked connection state. "Operational access" refers especially to the access by the user without the aid of tools, and therefore, "operator is not allowed to perform operational access" means that the user cannot operate the unlocking device 223 barehanded. Obviously, "visual access" does not mean "operational access". Perhaps the user can see a part of the unlocking device 223 through the through hole 2111, but cannot operate it. In particular, in the locked connection state, due to the obstruction of the clothing care agent dispensing device 1, operational access is more likely to be impossible, and visual access will become even more impossible.

[0076] like Figure 4 As shown, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the unlocking device 223 includes a sleeve 2231 that can be moved linearly, and the sleeve 2231 is configured to be in a predetermined position in a locked state, and to release the locked connection when moving away from the predetermined position in a predetermined direction, for example, in a direction away from the receiving structure 211. This unlocking device 223 is simple to work, and can even use existing standard parts (described below), and can also simplify the design of the unlocking mechanism 23.

[0077] According to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the receiving device 2 is configured to push, for example, pop up, the clothing care agent dispenser 1 in a direction away from the second connection port 222 when the locking connection is released. This means that the user can easily observe the unlocking and also conveniently take it out for replacement.

[0078] Obviously advantageously, the receiving device 2 is configured to generate a sound when establishing and / or unlocking the connection. In this way, the user can easily perceive the state change.

[0079] like Figure 1 , Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the first connection port 221 is configured as a male plug. In this way, the pipeline of the atomization power source 3, such as a hose, can be easily mounted on the first connection port 221.

[0080] On the contrary, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the second connection port 222 may be configured as a female connection port and may automatically establish a locking connection when the power port 11 is inserted. In this way, user operation may be facilitated.

[0081] In particular, if the through hole 2111 of the receiving structure 211 is provided with a guiding structure and / or a centering structure, for example, configured in a funnel shape, it can be more convenient for the user to operate. Figure 1 As shown, it is positioned into the receiving structure 211 without the need for fine alignment.

[0082] It can be understood that the clothing care agent delivery device 1 also has a spray outlet 12, which is used to establish a fluid connection with a corresponding docking port (not shown) to supply atomized products to the washing and care chamber of the washing and care device through a supply device (also not shown). An atomizing device 13 is provided in the clothing care agent delivery device 1, and the atomizing device 13 can form an atomized product under the stimulation of the atomizing power source 3 and discharge it through the spray outlet 12.

[0083] To this end, it is also necessary to position the clothing care agent dispensing device 1 circumferentially. Figure 3 As shown, the receiving structure 211 is provided with an alignment structure 2112, such as a groove, which allows the clothing care agent dispensing device 1 to establish a locking connection only when it is seated on the receiving structure 211 in a certain orientation. Correspondingly, the bottom of the clothing care agent dispensing device 1 is provided with a corresponding protrusion.

[0084] According to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the receiving structure 211 is configured as a recess and allows the locking connection to be automatically established by seating the clothing care agent dispenser 1 in the recess. This means that as long as the clothing care agent dispenser 1 is seated in the recess, i.e., inserted to the bottom in the recess, the locking connection will be determined.

[0085] According to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the unlocking mechanism 23 is configured as a mechanical mechanism, and the unlocking device 223 is configured to release the locked connection through a mechanical pushing action generated by the unlocking mechanism 23. The mechanical mechanism is reliable, does not require power supply, and has low cost.

[0086] In order to reset the unlocking mechanism 23 and allow multiple repeated operations, the receiving device 2 also includes a reset device 24 for resetting the unlocking mechanism 23. For example, the reset device 24 can be configured to reset the operating element 231, so that the operating element 231 will automatically return to its original position after the user presses the operation.

[0087] like Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the receiving device 2 further comprises a mounting structure 25 for detachably mounting the connector 22 on the base 21 from a side opposite to the receiving structure 211. This detachable arrangement facilitates replacement or maintenance, and also provides flexibility in the manufacture and design of the base 21.

[0088] As an exemplary embodiment, Figure 5 As shown, the unlocking mechanism 23 may include a lever mechanism 232, and the operating element 231 can actuate the lever mechanism 232. The lever mechanism 232 can amplify the force applied by the user. In this case, the operating element 231 is preferably configured as a button, such as a square button.

[0089] According to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the base 21 is configured as a drawable structure, such as a drawer.

[0090] To this end, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, Figure 1 , Figure 3-Figure 5 As shown, the base 21 has an outer end 212 and an inner end 213, the receiving structure 211 is located between the outer end 212 and the inner end 213, and the operating element 231 is located at the outer end 212. This is convenient for users to operate.

[0091] As a more specific exemplary embodiment of the lever mechanism 232, Figure 3 , Figure 4 and Figure 5 It can be seen that the lever mechanism 232 includes a swing arm 2321 at least partially located behind the receiving structure 211, and the swing arm 2321 has a first end 2322, a second end 2323 and an intermediate section 2324 located between the first end 2322 and the second end 2323, wherein the first end 2322 is actuated by the operating element 231, the second end 2323 is movably retained on the retaining structure 2131 at the inner end 213, and the intermediate section 2324 is configured to be able to actuate the unlocking device 223 to release the locked connection.

[0092] Combination Figure 4 and Figure 5 It can be seen that according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the receiving device 2 also includes a protruding structure 26, the mounting structure 25 includes a fixed bracket 251, the fixed bracket 251 includes an embracing structure 2511 circumferentially embracing the connector 22, such as a cylinder, a lifting structure 2512 for lifting the connector 22, and a fixing structure 2513 for fixing to the protruding structure 26, and the protruding structure 26 is located radially outside the embracing structure 2511.

[0093] According to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, Figure 5 As shown, the resetting device 24 acts on the lever mechanism 232 , in particular directly presses against the lever mechanism 232 .

[0094] like Figure 5 As shown, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the middle section 2324 is at least partially located behind the receiving structure 211 and has a notch 2325 to allow the power interface 11 to pass through the notch 2325 to establish a locked connection with the second connection port 222, and the edge area of ​​the notch 2325 is configured to act on the unlocking device 223 to release the locked connection. Figure 5 As can be further seen in the figure, the notch 2325 can be strip-shaped, for example, a substantially oblong hole. The edges on both sides of the notch 2325 can ride on the corresponding parts of the unlocking device 223.

[0095] According to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, Figure 4 and Figure 5 It can be seen that the protruding structure 26 includes a first column 261 and a second column 262, which are preferably hollow and are respectively located on both sides of the surrounding structure 2511. When the base 21 is configured as a retractable structure, the first column 261 and the second column 262 are preferably respectively located on both sides of the surrounding structure 2511 in the pulling direction. The hollow structure is used to receive a fixing screw.

[0096] In order to maintain the reset device 24, as an embodiment, Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, the reset device 24 can be held on the mounting structure 25. In particular, by fixing the mounting structure 25, the reset device 24 can be held between the lever mechanism 232 and the mounting structure 25 in a pre-tightened manner.

[0097] Those skilled in the art will appreciate that, in principle, the resetting device 24 may also be held on the protruding structure 26 .

[0098] According to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, Figure 4 and Figure 5As shown, the reset device 24 can act on the swing arm 2321.

[0099] As mentioned above, the notch 2325 may be in the form of a strip. Figure 5 As shown, the protruding structure 26 can pass through the notch 2325 .

[0100] like Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, the mounting structure 25 may be configured in a T-shape to match the arrangement of the protruding structure 26 relative to the connector 22 .

[0101] According to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the reset device 24 includes a spiral spring, which is sleeved on the first column 261 and / or the second column 262, one end of which crosses the notch 2325 and presses against the swing arm 2321, and the other end is supported on the fixed structure 2513. In this case, the notch 2325 extends outward beyond the spiral spring, that is, there is a notch on the outside of the spiral spring.

[0102] like Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, there is only one helical spring, which is arranged adjacent to the operating element 231 , ie the first end 2322 of the pivot arm 2321 , which is advantageous from the perspective of the lever principle.

[0103] According to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, Figure 3 , Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, the retaining structure 2131 is at least partially configured as an axis, and the second end 2323 of the swing arm 2321 includes at least one U-shaped claw 2326 for being clamped onto the axis. This arrangement facilitates the second end 2323 of the swing arm 2321 to be swingably, especially pivotably, retained on the retaining structure 2131.

[0104] According to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the protruding structure 26 can be integrally formed on the base 21. The base 21 itself can be integrally formed, preferably integrally injection molded. The protruding structure 26 can be conveniently formed together during the injection molding process.

[0105] The fixing bracket 251 itself may be a separate structure, that is, the fixing bracket 251 may be formed integrally. For example, the fixing bracket 251 may be an integral injection molded part.

[0106] like Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the first end 2322 and / or the middle section 2324 of the swing arm 2321 are at least partially configured as a strip.

[0107] Or Figure 4and Figure 5 As shown, the swing arm 2321 is at least partially configured to be roughly U-shaped, and the side facing the receiving structure 211 is preferably flat. The U-shape means that there are flanges on both sides, and the flanges can have a certain limiting effect.

[0108] As an exemplary embodiment, the swing arm 2321 can be formed by stamping a metal plate (and bending it if necessary).

[0109] like Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the shaft, at least as a part of the retaining structure 2131, has a tapered section 2132 with a relatively small diameter and a retaining section 2133 with a relatively large diameter, and the U-shaped claw 2326 is configured to be able to first be radially loaded into the tapered section 2132 and then be reliably retained on the retaining section 2133 through axial movement.

[0110] In order to increase the swing stability of the swing arm 2321, as Figure 3 and Figure 5 As shown, the at least one U-shaped claw 2326 includes two U-shaped claws arranged spaced apart from each other.

[0111] In order to facilitate quick connection for users, the connector 22 and the power interface 11 may be configured as quick connectors, particularly standard quick connectors. Figure 6 The figure shows a cross-sectional view of an existing quick connector, which is a commercially available product and is easily available. The power interface 11 as a component of the quick connector can be injection molded on the clothing care agent dispenser 1, for example, and the other parts can be installed on the base 21 as a connector 22.

[0112] In the quick connector, the radial dimension of the unlocking device 223 itself may be limited. Therefore, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, Figure 4 As shown, the receiving device 2 further includes a cover 27 which is sleeved on the unlocking device 223 to improve the reliability of the unlocking mechanism 23 transmitting the actuating action to the unlocking device 223. The cover 27 can be a plastic part, for example, sleeved on the unlocking mechanism 23 in an interference fit manner, and if necessary, it can also be considered to apply some adhesive to strengthen the connection between them.

[0113] Those skilled in the art may also refer to the 10 applications mentioned in the background technology section of the present invention when necessary.

[0114] According to a second aspect of the present invention, a clothing care agent dispensing device 1 is provided, wherein the clothing care agent dispensing device 1 is configured to be used in conjunction with a receiving device 2 for receiving the clothing care agent dispensing device 1 according to any of the above embodiments. This means that the clothing care agent dispensing device 1 has a structure adapted to the receiving device 2.

[0115] According to a third aspect of the present invention, a washing and care device (not shown) is provided, such as a washing machine, a washer-dryer, a clothes dryer or a clothes drying cabinet, characterized in that the washing and care device comprises a receiving device 2 for receiving a clothing care agent dispensing device 1 of any of the above-mentioned embodiments.

[0116] 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 expressly stated. In specific implementations, multiple features can be combined with each other where technically feasible, depending on actual needs. Various substitutions, changes, and modifications may also be conceived without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. A receiving device (2) for receiving a clothing care agent dispensing device (1), comprising: A base (21), the base (21) comprising a receiving structure (211) for receiving the clothing care agent dispensing device (1); a connector (22) mounted on the base (21), the connector (22) being used to establish a fluid connection between the atomizing power source (3) and the power interface (11) of the clothing care agent dispensing device (1), and having a first connection port (221) connected to the atomizing power source (3) and a second connection port (222) connected to the power interface (11), and the connector (22) also having an unlocking device (223) for releasing the locked connection between the second connection port (222) and the power interface (11); and An unlocking mechanism (23) is mounted on the base (21), and the unlocking mechanism (23) has an operating element (231) and allows the locking connection to be released via the unlocking device (223) by indirectly operating the operating element (231).

2. The receiving device (2) for receiving the clothing care agent dispensing device (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that: The receiving structure (211) and the operating element (231) have substantially the same orientation and / or the same height; and / or The receiving structure (211) is provided with a through hole (2111), and the connector (22) is aligned with the through hole (2111) and is at least partially located behind the receiving structure (211); and / or The connector (22) is substantially centrally located within the region of the receiving structure (211); and / or The unlocking mechanism (23) is at least partially located behind the receiving structure (211).

3. The receiving device (2) for receiving the clothing care agent dispensing device (1) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: The unlocking device (223) is configured to be shielded at least in the locked connection state and not allow an operator to access it operatively; and / or The unlocking device (223) includes a sleeve (2231) that can be moved linearly, and the sleeve (2231) is configured to be in a predetermined position when in the locked connection state, and to be able to release the locked connection when moving away from the predetermined position in a predetermined direction, for example, in a direction away from the receiving structure (211).

4. The receiving device (2) for receiving the clothing care agent dispensing device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that: The receiving device (2) is configured to push the clothing care agent dispensing device (1) in a direction away from the second connecting port (222) when the locking connection is released; and / or The receiving device (2) is configured to generate a sound when the locking connection is established and / or released.

5. The receiving device (2) for receiving the clothing care agent dispensing device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that: The first connection port (221) is configured as a male plug; and / or The second connection port (222) is configured as a female connection port and is capable of automatically establishing the locking connection when the power interface (11) is inserted.

6. The receiving device (2) for receiving the clothing care agent dispensing device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that: The receiving structure (211) is provided with an alignment structure (2112), such as a groove, which allows the locking connection to be established only when the clothing care agent dispensing device (1) is seated on the receiving structure (211) in a certain orientation; and / or The receiving structure (211) is configured as a recess, allowing the locking connection to be automatically established by seating the clothing care agent dispensing device (1) in the recess.

7. The receiving device (2) for receiving the clothing care agent dispensing device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that: The unlocking mechanism (23) is configured as a mechanical mechanism, and the unlocking device (223) is configured to release the locked connection through a mechanical pushing action generated by the unlocking mechanism (23); and / or The base (21) is configured as a drawable structure.

8. The receiving device (2) for receiving the clothing care agent dispensing device (1) according to claim 7, characterized in that: The receiving device (2) further comprises a resetting device (24) for resetting the unlocking mechanism (23); and / or The receiving device (2) further comprises a mounting structure (25) for detachably mounting the connector (22) on the base (21) from a side opposite to the receiving structure (211).

9. The receiving device (2) for receiving the clothing care agent dispensing device (1) according to claim 8, characterized in that: The unlocking mechanism (23) comprises a lever mechanism (232), and the operating element (231) is capable of actuating the lever mechanism (232); and / or The base (21) has an outer end (212) and an inner end (213), the receiving structure (211) is located between the outer end (212) and the inner end (213), and the operating element (231) is located at the outer end (212); and / or The resetting device (24) is configured to be able to reset the operating element (231).

10. The receiving device (2) for receiving the clothing care agent dispensing device (1) according to claim 9, characterized in that: The lever mechanism (232) comprises a swing arm (2321) at least partially located behind the receiving structure (211), the swing arm (2321) having a first end (2322), a second end (2323) and an intermediate section (2324) located between the first end (2322) and the second end (2323), wherein the first end (2322) is actuated by the operating element (231), the second end (2323) is movably retained on the retaining structure (2131) at the inner end (213), and the intermediate section (2324) is configured to be able to actuate the unlocking device (223) to release the locked connection; and / or The receiving device (2) further comprises a protruding structure (26), the mounting structure (25) comprises a fixing bracket (251), the fixing bracket (251) comprises an embracing structure (2511) circumferentially embracing the connector (22), a lifting structure (2512) for lifting the connector (22), and a fixing structure (2513) for fixing to the protruding structure (26), the protruding structure (26) being located radially outside the embracing structure (2511); and / or The resetting device (24) acts on the lever mechanism (232).

11. The receiving device (2) for receiving the clothing care agent dispensing device (1) according to claim 10, characterized in that: The intermediate section (2324) is at least partially located behind the receiving structure (211) and has a notch (2325) to allow the power interface (11) to pass through the notch (2325) to establish the locking connection, and the edge area of ​​the notch (2325) is configured to be able to act on the unlocking device (223) to release the locking connection; and / or The protruding structure (26) comprises a first column (261) and a second column (262) which are preferably hollow and are respectively located on both sides of the embracing structure (2511); and / or The resetting device (24) is held on the mounting structure (25) and / or the protruding structure (26); and / or The resetting device (24) acts on the swing arm (2321).

12. The receiving device (2) for receiving the clothing care agent dispensing device (1) according to claim 11, characterized in that: The protruding structure (26) passes through the notch (2325); and / or The notch (2325) is configured as a substantially oblong hole; and / or The mounting structure (25) is configured in a T-shape; and / or The reset device (24) comprises a spiral spring, which is sleeved on the first column (261) and / or the second column (262), one end of which spans the notch (2325) and presses against the swing arm (2321), and the other end of which is supported on the fixed structure (2513).

13. The receiving device (2) for receiving the clothing care agent dispensing device (1) according to any one of claims 10 to 12, characterized in that: The retaining structure (2131) is at least partially configured as a shaft, and the second end (2323) includes at least one U-shaped claw (2326) for clamping onto the shaft; and / or The protruding structure (26) is integrally formed on the base (21); and / or The fixing bracket (251) is integrally formed; and / or The resetting device (24) is arranged adjacent to the first end (2322).

14. The receiving device (2) for receiving the clothing care agent dispensing device (1) according to claim 13, characterized in that: The first end (2322) and / or the middle section (2324) are at least partially configured as a slat; and / or The swing arm (2321) is at least partially configured to be substantially U-shaped, and the side facing the receiving structure (211) is preferably flat; and / or The shaft has a tapered section (2132) with a relatively small diameter and a retaining section (2133) with a relatively large diameter, and the U-shaped claw (2326) is configured to be first radially inserted into the tapered section (2132) and then reliably retained on the retaining section (2133) through axial movement.

15. The receiving device (2) for receiving the clothing care agent dispensing device (1) according to claim 13 or 14, characterized in that: The at least one U-shaped claw (2326) includes two U-shaped claws arranged spaced apart from each other; and / or The at least one U-shaped claw (2326) is pivotably retained on the retaining section (2133).

16. The receiving device (2) for receiving the clothing care agent dispensing device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 15, characterized in that: The base (21) is integrally formed, preferably integrally injection molded; and / or The operating element (231) is configured as a button.

17. The receiving device (2) for receiving the clothing care agent dispensing device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 16, characterized in that: The connector (22) and the power interface (11) are configured as quick connectors, in particular standard quick connectors.

18. The receiving device (2) for receiving the clothing care agent dispensing device (1) according to claim 17, characterized in that: The receiving device (2) further comprises a cover (27) which is sleeved on the unlocking device (223) to improve the reliability of the unlocking mechanism (23) transmitting the actuating action to the unlocking device (223).

19. A clothing care agent dispensing device (1), the clothing care agent dispensing device (1) being configured to be used in conjunction with a receiving device (2) for receiving the clothing care agent dispensing device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 18.

20. A washing and care device, such as a washing machine, a washer-dryer, a clothes dryer or a clothes dryer, characterized in that: The washing and care device comprises a receiving device (2) for receiving a clothing care agent dosing device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 18.

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