Washing machine

Abstract

The invention discloses a washing machine. The washing machine comprises a box body; the washing drum is arranged in the box body; the clothes placing opening and the box door are arranged on the side portion of the box body, a door seal matched with the box door is arranged on the edge of the clothes placing opening, and the door seal comprises a sealing ring and a sealing fold which are connected with each other. The spraying device is arranged on the door seal; the controller is electrically connected with the spraying device, and the controller is configured to execute the following steps that a starting instruction used for indicating to wash clothes to be washed is obtained; in response to the starting instruction, controlling the spraying device to jointly flush the sealing ring, the sealing fold and the box door according to a preset first duration threshold value, discharging sewage generated in the flushing process, and generating a water injection signal after sewage discharging is finished; controlling the washing machine to inject washing water according to the water injection signal, and washing the to-be-washed clothes according to a preset washing program after water injection is finished. According to the technical scheme, the clothes washing quality is improved, and the probability of troubling the body health of a user is reduced.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present application relates to the technical field of washing machine production and manufacturing, and in particular to a washing machine. Background Art

[0002] Washing machines, as a common washing appliance in households, have accompanied many families through countless laundry days.

[0003] During the use of a washing machine, clothes are subjected to the combined effects of friction, mechanical force, water flow, hot and cold water temperatures, detergents, and other care products. Multiple rinses are performed to dissolve and remove detergent and stain residues, achieving the goal of cleaning clothes. Furthermore, when the washing water mixed with residue is discharged, some of the residue tends to remain in places that are difficult to be carried away by the water flow, such as on the door seal and the cabinet door structure.

[0004] As the number of washes increases, the residues are likely to erode, breed bacteria, cause mildew, and produce odors at the retention locations, causing the residues to cause secondary contamination to the clothes when the user subsequently uses the washing machine to wash the clothes, making the clothes not clean and even causing trouble to the user's health. Summary of the Invention

[0005] In order to solve the above technical problems, an embodiment of the present application provides a washing machine.

[0006] Some embodiments of the present application provide a washing machine, comprising: a cabinet; a washing drum provided inside the cabinet for accommodating laundry; and a clothes placing opening and a cabinet door provided on the side of the cabinet, the edge of the clothes placing opening being provided with a door seal cooperating with the cabinet door, the door seal comprising a sealing ring and sealing folds connected to each other; a spray device, provided on the door seal; a controller, electrically connected to the spray device, the controller being configured to perform the following steps: obtaining a start instruction for instructing washing the laundry; in response to the start instruction, controlling the spray device to rinse the sealing ring, the sealing folds and the cabinet door together according to a preset first time threshold, and discharging the sewage generated during the flushing process, and generating a water injection signal after the sewage discharge is completed; controlling the washing machine to inject washing water according to the water injection signal, and washing the laundry according to a preset washing program after the water injection is completed.

[0007] In the above embodiment, before the laundry is placed in the washing machine for washing, based on the multiple structures in the washing machine where stains are easily retained, the sealing ring, sealing folds and the door are rinsed together, and the stains generated by the rinsing are guided and discharged through the water flow multiple times before the washing process is performed on the laundry; multiple locations in the washing machine where stains are easily retained are rinsed, and after the stains generated by the rinsing are discharged, the washing process is performed on the laundry, thereby improving the washing quality of the washing machine and reducing the chance that the stains retained in the washing machine will cause trouble to the user's health.

[0008] In some embodiments of the present application, the controller is further configured to: after the washing program is completed, when the dehydration program is executed, control the spray device to rinse the sealing ring, the sealing folds and the box door together according to a preset second time threshold.

[0009] In the above embodiment, at the beginning of the dehydration process, the sealing ring, sealing folds and the door are rinsed simultaneously to reduce the probability of secondary contamination of the clothes in the dehydration process by stains generated during the washing process.

[0010] In some embodiments of the present application, the controller is further configured to: during the execution of the dehydration program, if the corresponding dehydration speed reaches a preset speed threshold, control the spray device to jointly flush the sealing ring, the sealing folds and the box door according to a preset third time threshold.

[0011] In the above embodiment, by controlling the spray device to rinse the sealing ring, sealing folds and cabinet door together according to the third time threshold, the stains remaining in the washing machine during the accelerated dehydration process can be cleaned, thereby reducing the chance of residual stains causing secondary contamination to clothes.

[0012] In some embodiments of the present application, the controller is further configured to: during the execution of the dehydration program, determine whether the remaining time of the dehydration program meets the preset remaining dehydration time threshold based on the preset dehydration time and the execution time of the dehydration program; if yes, control the spray device to rinse the sealing ring, the sealing folds and the box door together according to the preset fourth time threshold, and continue to execute the dehydration program until the end of the program after the rinsing is completed; if no, continue to execute the dehydration program.

[0013] In the above embodiment, by judging the remaining time of dehydration, the sealing ring, sealing folds and cabinet door are rinsed together within a specified period of time before the end of dehydration, thereby ensuring the dehydration effect of the clothes while reducing the possibility of secondary contamination of the clothes to be washed by stains retained on the sealing ring, sealing folds and cabinet door before the next use of the washing machine.

[0014] In some embodiments of the present application, the spray device includes a water inlet valve and a nozzle, the water inlet valve is connected to the nozzle, and the nozzle is used to spray the water flow entering through the water inlet valve to achieve flushing; the controller is also configured to: control the water inlet valve to open when the sealing ring, the sealing folds and the box door are flushed together; and control the water inlet valve to close when the opening time of the water inlet valve meets the preset flushing time threshold.

[0015] In the above embodiment, different flushing modes are controlled by the open or closed state of the water inlet valve, and the flushing control in the washing machine is achieved in a relatively clear and concise triggering manner, thereby improving the control accuracy of the controller.

[0016] In some embodiments of the present application, the controller is further configured to: obtain the target water pressure when the spray device is activated; in the process of adjusting the opening of the water inlet valve, when the water pressure flowing through the water inlet valve meets the target water pressure, stop adjusting the opening of the water inlet valve.

[0017] In the above embodiment, the opening of the water inlet valve is adjusted to adjust the water pressure flowing through the water inlet valve when the washing machine is connected to different water pressures, thereby improving the adaptability of the spray device in different water pressure environments, so that the nozzle can be used in more water pressure environments, thereby ensuring the stain cleaning effect of the washing machine.

[0018] In some embodiments of the present application, a stain recognition module electrically connected to the control is further included; the controller is further configured to: before flushing the sealing ring, the sealing folds and the box door together, control the stain recognition module to identify the stains on the sealing ring to obtain the stain area on the sealing ring; when the stain area is greater than a preset area threshold, add the preset replenishment time to the first duration threshold to obtain an updated first duration threshold, and flush the sealing ring, the sealing folds and the box door together according to the updated first duration threshold.

[0019] In the above embodiment, the stain area on the sealing ring is collected by the stain recognition module, and the collected stain area is compared with the preset area threshold. When the stain area on the sealing ring is larger than the area threshold, the flushing time is increased to improve the flushing effect of the spray device.

[0020] In some embodiments of the present application, the nozzle includes: a nozzle, the water outlet end of the nozzle is provided with a first water spray port and a second water spray port, the middle part of the nozzle is provided with a third water spray port, and the water inlet end of the nozzle is provided with a stop rib; a shell is sleeved on the outside of the nozzle, and the nozzle is slidably connected to the shell; a damping member is provided between the shell and the nozzle, the stop rib abuts against one end of the damping member, the water outlet end of the shell is provided with a blocking cover, the middle part of the blocking cover is provided with a through hole for passing through the nozzle, and the other end of the damping member abuts against the inner diameter edge of the through hole; when the water inlet valve is opened, the water inlet end of the shell generates water pressure to compress the damping member and cause the water outlet end of the nozzle to slide out of the shell, flushing the box door through the first water spray port, flushing the sealing ring through the second water spray port, and flushing the sealing folds through the third water spray port.

[0021] In the above embodiment, based on the retractable showerhead and the damping element within the showerhead, when the water inlet valve is open, the damping element is compressed by controlled water pressure, causing the nozzle to extend out of the housing. When the water inlet valve is closed or the water pressure is insufficient, the nozzle remains within the housing, and the water outlet of the nozzle does not extend beyond the water outlet end of the housing. The water pressure flowing through the water inlet valve, combined with the damping element within the showerhead, controls the flushing of the showerhead. This reduces the risk of damage to the nozzle due to it being exposed outside the housing when not in use.

[0022] In some embodiments of the present application, the water inlet end of the shell is provided with an inwardly protruding blocking ring, and the inner diameter of the blocking ring is smaller than the outer diameter of the water inlet end of the nozzle; when the water inlet valve is closed, the water inlet end of the shell stops generating water pressure to restore the damping member to its original length, and push the nozzle toward the water inlet end of the shell during the recovery process of the damping member, and the water inlet end of the nozzle is blocked by the blocking ring to limit the water inlet end of the nozzle from sliding out of the water inlet end of the shell.

[0023] In the above embodiment, the blocking ring can play a certain blocking role on the nozzle when the nozzle moves toward the water inlet end of the housing, thereby reducing the probability of the nozzle being pushed into the connecting pipe of the spray device when the damping member rebounds.

[0024] In some embodiments of the present application, there is a guide rib on the stop rib, and a slide groove that is compatible with the guide rib is provided on the inner wall of the shell, and the slide groove is arranged along the length direction of the shell; when the water inlet valve is opened, based on the guidance of the guide rib by the slide groove, the nozzle moves along the length direction of the slide groove to limit the circumferential rotation of the nozzle.

[0025] In the above embodiment, based on the mutual cooperation between the guide rib and the slide groove, the sliding direction of the nozzle is guided to a certain extent during the process of the nozzle sliding toward the shell. At the same time, the probability of the nozzle rotating circumferentially is reduced, so that after the nozzle slides out of the shell, the first water spray outlet on the nozzle can also be directed towards the box door, thereby improving the stain flushing effect of the box door.

[0026] It should be understood that the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory only and are not restrictive of the present application. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0027] Figure 1 The figure is a schematic diagram of the overall structure of a washing machine shown as an exemplary embodiment of the present application.

[0028] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the internal structure of a washing machine according to an exemplary embodiment of the present application.

[0029] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the partial structure of a spray device shown in an exemplary embodiment of the present application.

[0030] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the connection relationship of the upper structure of the controller shown in an exemplary embodiment of the present application.

[0031] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the overall structure of a nozzle in a cross section according to an exemplary embodiment of the present application.

[0032] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the overall structure of the nozzle shown in an exemplary embodiment of the present application.

[0033] Figure 7 This is an assembly diagram of a nozzle and a damping element according to an exemplary embodiment of the present application.

[0034] Figure 8 The figure is a flow chart of a laundry control method according to an exemplary embodiment of the present application.

[0035] Figure 9 This is a cross-sectional view of the door seal folds when the water inlet valve is open, showing an exemplary embodiment of the present application.

[0036] Figure 10 This is a cross-sectional view of the door seal folds when the water inlet valve is closed according to an exemplary embodiment of the present application.

[0037] Figure 11 The flowchart of a laundry control method is shown as another exemplary embodiment of the present application. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0038] In order to make the purpose and implementation of this application clearer, the exemplary implementation of this application will be clearly and completely described below in conjunction with the drawings in the exemplary embodiments of this application. Obviously, the described exemplary embodiments are only part of the embodiments of this application, not all of the embodiments.

[0039] It should be noted that the brief descriptions of terms in this application are only for the purpose of facilitating the understanding of the embodiments described below, and are not intended to limit the embodiments of this application. Unless otherwise specified, these terms should be understood according to their ordinary and usual meanings.

[0040] In the specification and claims of this application and the accompanying drawings, the terms "first," "second," "third," etc. are used to distinguish similar or similar objects or entities, and are not necessarily intended to limit a particular order or sequence, unless otherwise noted. It should be understood that the terms used in this manner are interchangeable under appropriate circumstances.

[0041] The terms "comprise," "include," and "have," and any variations thereof, are intended to cover but not exclude inclusion; for example, a product or device comprising a list of components is not necessarily limited to all the components expressly listed but may include other components not expressly listed or inherent to such product or device.

[0042] It should be noted that the term "plurality" used in this document refers to two or more. "And / or" describes a relationship between associated objects, indicating that three possible relationships exist. For example, "A and / or B" can represent: A alone, A and B together, or B alone. The character " / " generally indicates an "or" relationship between the associated objects.

[0043] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the overall structure of a washing machine shown in an exemplary embodiment of the present application. Figure 1 As shown, in some embodiments of the present application, the washing machine 100 includes a cabinet 101 .

[0044] The box body 101 is a hollow three-dimensional structure. A clothes opening 102 and a box door 103 adapted to the clothes opening 102 are provided on one side of the box body 101 .

[0045] In some embodiments of the present application, the clothing opening 102 is annular in structure, and a door seal 104 is provided around the edge of the clothing opening 102 to cooperate with the box door 103 .

[0046] For example, the door seal 104 can be made of elastic silicone or rubber. It includes a sealing ring and a sealing fold connected to each other. The sealing ring is used to secure the door seal 104 to the edge of the clothing opening 102, while the sealing fold extends beyond the edge of the clothing opening 102. A buffer gap exists within the sealing fold, and the buffer gap communicates with the interior of the washing machine 100.

[0047] When the door 103 is closed, the sealing folds are squeezed to a certain extent, and the buffer gap inside the sealing folds becomes smaller, thereby achieving a certain sealing effect and buffering effect; when the door 103 is opened, the sealing folds rebound due to the deformation caused by the squeezing.

[0048] In some embodiments of the present application, the washing machine 100 further includes a washing drum 105 .

[0049] The washing drum 105 is used to accommodate clothes to be washed. The washing drum 105 is arranged inside the box body 101. One side of the washing drum 105 is opened, and the opening of the washing drum 105 is aligned with the clothes opening 102 of the box body 101.

[0050] In some embodiments of the present application, Figure 2 Schematic diagram of the internal structure of a washing machine shown in the exemplary embodiment of the present application. Figure 2 As shown, the washing machine 100 further includes a spray device 106 .

[0051] The spray device 106 is provided on the door seal 104. Specifically, the spray device 106 includes a water inlet valve 1061. The spray device 106 is provided with a spray head 107.

[0052] Figure 3 This is a partial structural diagram of a spray device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present application. Figure 3 As shown, in some examples, the water inlet of the washing machine 100 of the present application needs to be connected to the detergent delivery box to facilitate mixing of the detergent, and the water inlet valve 1061 is also set at the detergent delivery box of the washing machine 100, so as to facilitate the access of the external water pipe and save the laying of pipelines.

[0053] The nozzle 107 on the spray device 106 is used to spray the water entering through the water inlet valve 1061 to flush part of the structure of the washing machine 100.

[0054] In some embodiments of the present application, the washing machine 100 further includes a controller.

[0055] The controller may be disposed on the inner side of the control panel of the washing machine 100 , or may be disposed at other locations, and may be powered by an external power supply.

[0056] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram showing the connection relationship of the upper part of the controller structure according to the exemplary embodiment of the present application. Figure 4 As shown, the storage module includes internal memory and external memory. The internal memory is located within the controller, and the external memory is electrically connected to the controller. The external and internal memories are used to write and read the laundry control program and store laundry parameters. The laundry control program includes a wash program and a spin program. For example, the internal memory is typically directly connected to the controller's corresponding CPU (Central Processing Unit). While its storage capacity is generally small, its direct connection to the CPU allows for relatively high speed. In this application, the internal memory is used to store instructions and data for the currently running program and directly exchange information with the CPU. The internal memory consists of numerous storage cells, each capable of storing a binary number or a binary-coded instruction. Internal memory is composed of random access memory (RAM) and read-only memory (ROM). External memory refers to memory other than the controller's internal memory and CPU cache. This type of memory generally retains data even after a power outage, and can include hard drives, floppy disks, optical disks, USB flash drives, and the like. The external memory of this application can be fixedly mounted together with the controller on a circuit board, such as the internal circuit board structure of the washing machine 100.

[0057] The controller is electrically connected to the spray device 106. The electrical connection can be a line connection or a communication connection. The present application uses instructions or signals sent by the controller to directly or indirectly control various structures on the spray device 106.

[0058] For example, the water inlet valve 1061 can be a solenoid valve, and the opening or closing of the water inlet valve 1061 is controlled by a relay. Of course, it can also be other valves that can be controlled by a controller.

[0059] In some embodiments of the present application, Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the overall structure of a nozzle in a cross section, as shown in the exemplary embodiment of this application. Figure 5 As shown, the spray head 107 includes a nozzle.

[0060] The nozzle is a tubular structure, which can be a square tube or a round tube, and is not limited here. The nozzle of this application takes a round tube as an example, and the two ends of the nozzle are the water outlet and the water inlet respectively.

[0061] The water outlet of the nozzle is provided with a first water outlet 1071, a second water outlet 1072, and a third water outlet 1073. There may be one or more third water outlets 1073. When there are multiple third water outlets 1073, the multiple third water outlets 1073 may be evenly distributed on the nozzle wall or unevenly distributed on the nozzle wall.

[0062] To illustrate by way of example, the formation of the first water spray port 1071 can be achieved by opening it on the pipe wall of the nozzle after the water outlet of the nozzle is blocked, and the first water spray port 1071 is arranged close to the edge of the water outlet of the nozzle so that the water flowing through the nozzle can be ejected from one side of the pipe wall of the nozzle. The nozzle can be made of a rigid material, and the water outlet of the nozzle can be blocked by a blocking member made of the same material or other materials. The connection between the blocking member and the nozzle can be one of a variety of connection methods such as threaded connection, clamping, welding, etc. The formation of the first water spray port 1071 is achieved by opening it on the blocking member so that the water flowing through the nozzle can also be ejected from the water outlet of the nozzle in a straight line along the length direction of the nozzle.

[0063] like Figure 5 As shown, in some examples, the blocking member for blocking the water outlet of the nozzle can be a plate-like object arranged at an angle, the top portion of which is connected to the edge of the water outlet of the nozzle, and a gap is formed between the bottom portion and the water outlet of the nozzle, and the gap is used as the first water outlet 1071. The second water outlet 1072 is formed by a through hole opened in the middle of the plate-like object. It should be noted that the size of the first water outlet 1071 is much larger than that of the second water outlet 1072. The size of the third water outlet 1073 is also much larger than that of the second water outlet 1072.

[0064] In some embodiments of the present application, the first water spray port 1071 may be directly opened on the tube wall of the nozzle. The second water spray port 1072 may be formed by condensing the edge of the water outlet end of the nozzle toward the center. The third water spray port 1073 may also be directly opened on the tube wall of the nozzle. Of course, there is no specific restriction on the specific formation method of the first water spray port 1071 and the second water spray port 1072. It only needs to meet the requirement that the water spray direction of the first water spray port 1071 is sprayed from one side of the nozzle upper tube wall. The water spray direction of the second water spray port 1072 is sprayed along the length direction of the nozzle. The water spray direction of the third water spray port 1073 is sprayed from one or more sides of the nozzle upper tube wall. When in use, the cabinet door 103 on the washing machine 100, as well as the sealing ring and sealing folds on the door seal 104 can be rinsed.

[0065] During use, since the size of the second water spray port 1072 is smaller than that of the second water spray port 1072 and the third water spray port 1072, the water flow of the second water spray port 1072 is relatively concentrated, and its flushing force is relatively large, so that it is easier to flush away the stains retained on the inner surface of the sealing ring. At the same time, the relative water flow rate of the first water spray port 1071 and the third water spray port 1073 is larger, so that it is easier to carry away the flushed stains on the box door 103 and in the sealing folds through the water flow.

[0066] The spray head 107 further comprises a shell which is sleeved on the outside of the nozzle.

[0067] In some embodiments of the present application, Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the overall structure of the nozzle shown in the exemplary embodiment of this application. Figure 6 As shown, the housing, like the nozzle, is tubular and mates with the nozzle. The housing has a water inlet and outlet at either end, and when the nozzle is attached, the inlet and outlet correspond to the nozzle's inlet and outlet, respectively. The nozzle is slidably connected to the housing, allowing the nozzle's outlet to slide out of the housing.

[0068] In order to reduce the probability of the nozzle completely slipping out of the housing, a stop rib is provided at the water inlet end of the nozzle. At the same time, a blocking cover is provided at the water outlet end of the housing. A through hole is provided in the middle of the blocking cover for penetrating the nozzle.

[0069] Specifically, the stop rib is a protrusion extending radially outward from the water inlet end of the nozzle, and the number of stop ribs can be one or more. If multiple stop ribs are provided, the multiple stop ribs can be evenly or unevenly arranged around the circumference of the nozzle. When the nozzle moves toward the water outlet end of the housing, the cover at the water outlet end of the housing can interfere with the stop rib to a certain extent, thereby reducing the chance of the nozzle slipping out of the housing from the water outlet end.

[0070] To illustrate, the plugging cap includes two circular rings that are nested together, with a mounting gap between them. The width of the mounting gap matches the wall thickness of the water outlet end of the housing. The two rings are sealed and connected on the same side, forming an annular groove with the mounting gap. The inner surface of the smaller of the two rings forms a through hole for passing through the nozzle, and when the plugging cap interferes with the stop rib, the stop rib abuts against the smaller of the two rings.

[0071] It should be noted that the connection between the plug cover and the housing can be achieved through a separately provided snap-fit ​​structure. Alternatively, a threaded structure can be provided within the installation gap, and a threaded connection can be achieved by cooperating with a threaded structure provided at the end of the housing. Alternatively, the connection can be achieved through a fixed connection method such as welding. This is for illustrative purposes only and does not constitute a limitation.

[0072] When the water inlet valve 1061 is connected to the nozzle 107, the water outlet of the water inlet valve 1061 is connected to the water inlet of the nozzle 107 through a pipe. The nozzle 107 can be connected by hot melt adhesive. At the same time, in order to reduce the probability of the nozzle 107 falling off, an outwardly protruding anti-slip ridge is provided on the outer shell of the nozzle 107.

[0073] Specifically, when the spray device 106 is mounted on the door seal 104, the housing of the nozzle 107 extends into the sealing fold of the door seal 104. After the nozzle extends out of the housing, the third water spray port 1073 of the nozzle is positioned within the sealing fold. Simultaneously, the first water spray port 1071 of the nozzle faces the transparent glass on the door 103, while the second water spray port 1072 of the nozzle faces the bottom of the sealing ring, where water easily accumulates.

[0074] During use, water flows into the nozzle 107, pushing the water outlet of the nozzle out of the housing, causing the water to flow toward the first water spray port 1071, the second water spray port 1072, and the third water spray port 1073 on the nozzle and spray out, thereby achieving multi-angle cleaning of the door 103, the sealing ring, and the sealing folds.

[0075] In some embodiments of the present application, Figure 7 The assembly diagram of the nozzle and the damping member is shown in the exemplary embodiment of the present application. Figure 7 As shown, a damping member 1074 is provided between the housing and the nozzle.

[0076] Damping member 1074 can be a spring or other elastic structure capable of expansion and contraction and resetting. The following description uses damping member 1074 as a spring for the exemplary embodiment. Damping member 1074 is sleeved onto the exterior of the nozzle. A stop rib on the nozzle abuts one end of damping member 1074, while the other end abuts the plug.

[0077] During use, only when the water flow has a water pressure that can compress the damping member 1074 can the nozzle move toward the water outlet of the housing and flush the door 103 through the first water spray port 1071, flush the sealing ring through the second water spray port 1072, and flush the sealing folds through the third water spray port 1073. Conversely, when the water pressure corresponding to the water flow is insufficient to compress the damping member 1074, or when there is no water pressure, the first water spray port 1071 is blocked by the side wall of the housing. Based on the working principle of the damping member 1074 described above, the water pressure is controlled by the water inlet valve 1061, so that the nozzle in the nozzle head 107 is pushed out of the housing by the impact of the water flow, so that the nozzle head 107 flushes the designated structure inside the washing machine 100.

[0078] In conjunction with the description of the positional relationship between structures in the embodiments of the present application, it should be noted that in the various embodiments of the present application, especially when describing the positional relationship of relevant hardware on the clothing washing and care equipment, the terms vertical, up, down, horizontal, etc. indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They are only for the convenience of describing the technical solution of the present application and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, it cannot be understood as a limitation on the technical solution of the present application.

[0079] At the same time, in conjunction with the description of the connection relationship between structures in the embodiments of this application, especially the description of the connection relationship of the hardware related to the clothing washing and care equipment, it should also be noted that, unless otherwise clearly specified and limited, the terms setting, installing, connecting, and connecting should be understood in a broad sense. For example, it can be a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; it can be a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; it can be a direct connection, or it can be indirectly connected through an intermediate medium, or it can be the internal communication of two components. For ordinary technicians in this field, the specific meanings of the above terms in this application can be understood according to the specific circumstances.

[0080] Figure 8 FIG. 1 is a flow chart of a laundry control method shown in an exemplary embodiment of the present application. Figure 8 As shown, the laundry control method of the present application includes the following steps:

[0081] S10, obtaining a start instruction for instructing to wash the laundry;

[0082] S11, in response to a start instruction, controlling the spray device to flush the sealing ring, the sealing folds, and the chamber door according to a preset first time threshold, and discharging wastewater generated during the flushing process, and generating a water injection signal after the discharge is completed;

[0083] S12, controlling the washing machine to inject washing water according to the water injection signal, and washing the laundry according to a preset washing program after the water injection is completed.

[0084] For example, after placing laundry in a washing machine and closing the door, the user presses the start button on the control panel. Upon receiving the start command generated by the user pressing the start button, the washing machine controller enters the laundry control program based on the generated start command and controls the water inlet valve at a specified node in the laundry control program.

[0085] It should be noted that the start command for instructing the washing machine to start washing can be triggered by a start button on the washing machine. It can also be achieved through remote control of some mobile device. For example, the washing machine can be provided with a communication module electrically connected to the controller, such as a WiFi module, a Bluetooth module, etc., and a mobile phone or a separately provided remote control device can be connected to the communication module to send the corresponding start command through the mobile phone or remote control device, thereby improving the safety of the device.

[0086] In order to reduce the chance of stains on the door seal ring, sealing folds, and door contaminating the laundry, the spray device is controlled to flush the sealing ring, sealing folds, and door together according to a preset first time threshold before washing the laundry, and the stains collected during the flushing process are discharged. For example, before washing the laundry in a washing machine, if there are stains on any one or more of the sealing ring, sealing folds, and door, the aforementioned locations are flushed before the laundry is washed, and the washing machine's drain device is opened during the flushing process to allow the water flow to carry any stains that may be trapped in the washing machine out of the washing machine.

[0087] It should be noted that in addition to draining the washing water during water changes, the washing machine also drains wastewater during the stain rinse process. After rinsing and draining the aforementioned structures prone to stains, the washing machine's drainage system is closed and water is refilled. Once the water volume reaches the preset level within the wash cycle, water refilling ceases, and the laundry continues to be washed according to the wash cycle.

[0088] The injection of washing water may be controlled by a water inlet valve or by a separately provided main wash valve or other valve. This is not limited here and is only provided for explanation.

[0089] Through the above-mentioned embodiment, before the laundry is put into the washing machine for washing, based on the multiple structures in the washing machine where stains are easily retained, the sealing ring, sealing folds and the door are rinsed together, and the stains generated by the rinsing are guided and discharged through the water flow multiple times before the washing process is performed on the laundry; multiple locations in the washing machine where stains are easily retained are rinsed, and after the stains generated by the rinsing are discharged, the washing process is performed on the laundry, thereby improving the washing quality of the washing machine and reducing the chance that the stains retained in the washing machine will cause trouble to the user's health.

[0090] In some embodiments of the present application, in order to further improve the quality of laundry and reduce the chance of causing trouble to the user's health, after the washing program is completed, when the dehydration program is executed, the spray device is controlled to rinse the sealing ring, sealing folds and the box door together according to a preset second time threshold.

[0091] Specifically, the washing program in the example of this application includes a detergent cleaning process and a rinsing process. After the laundry is rinsed with detergent, stains on the clothes are easily retained in locations such as the sealing ring, sealing folds, and the washing machine door. For example, when the laundry water used for detergent cleaning is drained, some stains brought into the washing machine through the clothes have a higher density than water, such as some sand and stones, or some special stains that are difficult to dissolve, and they are easily deposited or attached to the sealing ring, the sealing folds, the washing machine door, and other locations within the washing machine drum. During the rinsing process, the stirring device installed in the washing machine stirs the clothes, generating a turbulent water flow. This water flow easily washes away the stains attached to most locations within the washing machine drum, and is then discharged through the multiple through-holes provided in the washing machine drum during multiple rinses. However, some stains are still easily deposited or attached to the sealing ring, the sealing folds, and the washing machine door during the drainage process.

[0092] Therefore, for this application, when the dehydration program is executed, the spray device is controlled to rinse the sealing ring, sealing folds and the door together according to the preset second time threshold. Specifically, after the washing program is completed, by judging whether the washing machine has entered the dehydration program, and when it is determined that the dehydration program has been entered, the spray device is controlled to rinse the sealing ring, sealing folds and the door together according to the second time threshold. Among them, there is no specific limitation on the specific values ​​of the second time threshold, as well as the multiple time thresholds in other embodiments of the present application, and it is determined to meet the stain cleaning requirements in most cases.

[0093] It should be noted that, since the drainage device of the washing machine is in an open state during the dehydration process, there is no need to add additional control of the drainage device during the simultaneous flushing of the sealing ring, sealing folds and cabinet door.

[0094] Through the above embodiment, at the beginning of the dehydration process, the sealing ring, sealing folds and the door are rinsed simultaneously to reduce the probability of secondary contamination of the clothes in the dehydration process by stains generated during the washing process.

[0095] In some embodiments of the present application, in order to further improve the quality of laundry and reduce the chance of causing trouble to the user's health, during the dehydration program, if the dehydration speed reaches a preset speed threshold, the spray device is controlled to rinse the sealing ring, sealing folds and box door together according to a preset third time threshold.

[0096] To illustrate, as the clothes accelerate from low speed to high speed during the dehydration process, the weight and water content of each position in the clothes are different. As the water content continues to change, the center of gravity of the clothes will change during the dehydration process, and the centrifugal force generated at different positions of the clothes will also be different, causing the washing machine to produce a certain amount of vibration, which may throw off some stains attached to the clothes. Therefore, when the dehydration speed reaches the preset speed threshold, the spray device is controlled to rinse the sealing ring, sealing folds and box door together according to the third time threshold, which can reduce the residual stains generated during the dehydration process. Among them, the speed threshold can be the highest speed value set in the dehydration program, of course, it can also be other values ​​of the dehydration speed during the acceleration process.

[0097] In some embodiments of the present application, in order to further improve the quality of laundry and reduce the risk of causing harm to the user's health, during the execution of the dehydration process, it is determined whether the remaining time of the dehydration process meets a preset remaining dehydration time threshold based on the preset dehydration time and the execution time of the dehydration process.

[0098] If yes, the spray device is controlled to rinse the sealing ring, the sealing folds and the door together according to the preset fourth time threshold, and after the rinsing is completed, the dehydration process is continued until the process ends;

[0099] If no, continue with the dehydration process.

[0100] Specifically, similar to the above-mentioned embodiment related to the dehydration process, for example, since the weight and water content of the clothes vary during the dehydration process from high speed to low speed, the center of gravity of the clothes will change during the dehydration process, and the centrifugal force generated at different positions of the clothes will also vary, resulting in a certain vibration of the laundry, which may throw off some stains attached to the clothes. Therefore, when the program is about to end, the present application controls the spray device to rinse the sealing ring, sealing folds and box door together according to the fifth time threshold, which can reduce the residual stains generated during the dehydration process.

[0101] Among them, the remaining dehydration time threshold can be 1 minute, of course, it can also be other values. It should be noted that if after the dehydration program is completed, the spray device is controlled to rinse the sealing ring, sealing folds and box door together according to the fourth time threshold, it is easy to cause secondary contamination to the clothes and affect the dehydration effect. Based on this, the present application chooses to start at a time point before the end of the dehydration and rinse the sealing ring, sealing folds and box door together before the end of the dehydration program, thereby ensuring the dehydration effect of the clothes while reducing the chance of stains remaining on the sealing ring, sealing folds and box door before the next use of the washing machine.

[0102] In some real-time examples of the present application, when the sealing ring, sealing folds and chamber door are flushed together, the water inlet valve is controlled to open, so that when the opening time of the water inlet valve meets the preset flushing time threshold, the water inlet valve is controlled to close.

[0103] Specifically, the water inlet valve is controlled to enable the spray device. For example, when the water inlet valve is opened, the spray device flushes the sealing ring, sealing folds and the box door. Otherwise, the above-mentioned flushing work is not performed.

[0104] Through the above implementation, different flushing modes are controlled by the open or closed state of the water inlet valve, and the flushing control in the washing machine is achieved in a relatively clear and concise triggering manner, thereby improving the control accuracy of the controller.

[0105] In some real-time examples of the present application, the nozzle structure of the spray device is further explained. When the water inlet valve is opened, water pressure is generated at the water inlet end of the shell to compress the damping member and cause the water outlet end of the nozzle to slide out of the shell, flushing the box door through the first water spray port, flushing the sealing ring through the second water spray port, and flushing the sealing folds through the third water spray port.

[0106] For example, the water inlet valve in the present application is used to control the water pressure generated by the water flowing through the sprinkler device. Figure 9 This is a cross-sectional view of the door seal folds in the water inlet valve open state shown in the exemplary embodiment of this application. Figure 9 As shown, when the water inlet valve is opened, the water pressure controlled by the water inlet valve is aimed at enabling the nozzle to extend out of the housing and enabling the first water spray port, the second water spray port and the third water spray port to correspond to corresponding flushing positions.

[0107] Figure 10 This is a cross-sectional view of the door seal folds in another exemplary embodiment of the present application, showing the water inlet valve in a closed state. Figure 10 As shown, when the water inlet valve is closed, or the water pressure controlled by the water inlet valve is insufficient to extend the nozzle out of the housing, the water outlet end of the nozzle is retracted into the water outlet end of the housing under the elastic force of the damping member.

[0108] Through the above-described embodiment, based on the retractable showerhead and the damping element within the showerhead, when the water inlet valve is open, the damping element is compressed by controlled water pressure, causing the nozzle to extend out of the housing. When the water inlet valve is closed or the water pressure is insufficient, the nozzle remains within the housing, and the water outlet of the nozzle does not extend beyond the water outlet end of the housing. The flushing of the showerhead is controlled by the water pressure flowing through the water inlet valve and the damping element within the showerhead. This reduces the chance of damage to the showerhead due to the nozzle being exposed outside the housing when not in use.

[0109] In some embodiments of the present application, in order to prevent the nozzle in the spray head from slipping out of the housing, an inwardly protruding blocking ring is provided at the water inlet end of the housing. The inner diameter of the blocking ring is smaller than the outer diameter of the water inlet end of the nozzle.

[0110] When the water inlet valve is closed, the water inlet end of the shell stops generating water pressure, so that the damping element recovers its original length, and pushes the nozzle toward the water inlet end of the shell during the recovery process of the damping element, and blocks the water inlet end of the nozzle based on the blocking ring to limit the water inlet end of the nozzle from sliding out of the water inlet end of the shell.

[0111] To illustrate this by way of example, when the water inlet valve is opened, the nozzle on the nozzle extends out of the housing to flush the sealing ring, sealing folds, and door. After the flushing is completed according to the preset flushing time, the water inlet valve is controlled to close. Since there is insufficient water pressure to generate thrust on the nozzle after the water inlet valve is closed, the nozzle is pushed toward the water inlet end of the housing under the rebound of the nozzle damping member. Based on this, the present application provides a blocking ring for blocking the nozzle. The inner diameter of the blocking ring is smaller than the outer diameter of the water inlet end of the nozzle, which can play a certain blocking role on the nozzle, reducing the nozzle from being pushed into the connecting pipe of the spray device when the damping member rebounds.

[0112] In some embodiments of the present application, in order to improve the use effect of the nozzle, a guide rib is provided on the stop rib of the nozzle. At the same time, a slide groove is provided on the inner wall of the shell to match the guide rib, and the slide groove is arranged along the length direction of the nozzle.

[0113] When the water inlet valve is opened, the nozzle moves along the length direction of the chute based on the guidance of the guide rib by the chute to limit the circumferential rotation of the nozzle.

[0114] To illustrate this by way of example, when the water inlet valve is opened, the nozzle on the nozzle slides toward the water outlet end of the shell. During the sliding of the nozzle, since the guide ribs are restricted in the slide groove, the sliding trajectory of the nozzle can only be the same as the extension direction of the slide groove, so that the nozzle can only slide along the length direction of the nozzle under the action of water pressure, thereby limiting the nozzle from circumferential rotation.

[0115] Through the above-mentioned embodiment, based on the mutual cooperation between the guide rib and the slide groove, the sliding direction of the nozzle is guided to a certain extent during the process of the nozzle sliding toward the shell. At the same time, the probability of the nozzle rotating circumferentially is reduced, so that after the nozzle slides out of the shell, the first water spray outlet on the nozzle can also be directed toward the box door, thereby improving the stain flushing effect of the box door.

[0116] In some real-time examples of the present application, in order to improve the use effect of the water inlet valve, the target water pressure when the sealing ring, the sealing folds and the box door are flushed together is obtained.

[0117] During the process of adjusting the opening of the water inlet valve, when the water pressure flowing through the water inlet valve meets the target water pressure, the adjustment of the opening of the water inlet valve is stopped.

[0118] For example, the damping element in the showerhead is incorporated into the showerhead, and the showerhead is tested before installation. By inserting the showerhead into an adjustable water pressure testing line, the target water pressure is determined when the nozzle extends from the showerhead housing. In actual use, the water pressure entering the washing machine fluctuates. Therefore, the water pressure flowing through the water inlet valve is controlled by adjusting the opening of the water inlet valve, ensuring that the adjusted water pressure meets the target pressure.

[0119] Through the above embodiment, by adjusting the opening of the water inlet valve, the water pressure flowing through the water inlet valve can be adjusted under the premise that the washing machine is connected to different water pressures, thereby improving the adaptability of the spray device in different water pressure environments, so that the nozzle can be used in more water pressure environments, thereby ensuring the stain cleaning effect of the washing machine.

[0120] In some embodiments of the present application, in order to improve the effect of cleaning stains on the sealing ring, the washing machine further includes a stain recognition module electrically connected to the controller.

[0121] Before the sealing ring, sealing folds, and door are rinsed together, the stain recognition module is controlled to identify stains on the sealing ring to determine the stain area on the sealing ring. The stain recognition module can be a camera. The module captures a designated location on the sealing ring, processes the captured image, and compares it with a pre-captured standard image to determine the stain area on the sealing ring.

[0122] When the stain area is larger than the preset area threshold, the preset replenishment time is added to the first duration threshold to obtain an updated first duration threshold, and the sealing ring, sealing folds and box door are flushed together according to the updated first duration threshold.

[0123] To illustrate by way of example, the first time threshold is used as the default value. If the preset area threshold is 3 square centimeters, when the collected stain area is 4 square centimeters, it indicates that the sealing ring has relatively more stains, and it is necessary to add 2 seconds to the first time threshold, and then rinse the sealing ring, sealing folds and box door together according to the increased time threshold; but if the collected stain area is 2 square centimeters, the default value is still maintained, that is, the sealing ring, sealing folds and box door are rinsed together according to the first time threshold.

[0124] Through the above implementation, the stain area on the sealing ring is collected by the stain recognition module, and the collected stain area is compared with the preset area threshold. When the stain area on the sealing ring is greater than the area threshold, the flushing time is increased to improve the flushing effect of the spray device.

[0125] In order to make this application more clear, Figure 11 FIG. 1 is a flow chart of a laundry control method shown in another exemplary embodiment of the present application. Figure 11 As shown, some execution processes of the washing machine of the present application are exemplarily described.

[0126] Enter the washing program according to the received start command;

[0127] When entering the washing program, the water inlet valve is opened for 6 seconds to achieve the common flushing and sewage discharge of the sealing ring, sealing folds and chamber door, and a water injection signal is generated after the flushing time is over and after the flushing time is over;

[0128] According to the water injection signal, water is injected according to the preset water inlet volume to achieve washing of clothes;

[0129] After washing the clothes, when entering the dehydration process, the water inlet valve is opened for 6 seconds to achieve the simultaneous flushing of the sealing ring, sealing folds and the door, reducing the chance of secondary contamination of the clothes by stains generated during the washing process. After the flushing time is over, the water inlet valve is closed;

[0130] Determines whether the spin speed meets the preset speed threshold. If so, opens the water inlet valve for 6 seconds to flush the sealing ring, sealing folds, and door, reducing the chance of secondary contamination of clothing by stains generated during the accelerated spin process.

[0131] Determine whether the remaining dehydration time meets the preset remaining time threshold. If the judgment result is yes, the water inlet valve is opened for 8 seconds to achieve the joint flushing of the sealing ring, sealing folds and box door, and close the water inlet valve after the flushing time is over.

[0132] For the drawings of the various embodiments of the present application, it should be noted that the flowcharts and block diagrams in the drawings illustrate the possible architectures, functions and operations of the systems, methods and computer program products according to the various embodiments of the present application. Among them, each box in the flowchart or block diagram can represent a module, program segment, or part of the code, and the above-mentioned module, program segment, or part of the code contains one or more executable instructions for implementing the specified logical function. It should also be noted that in some alternative implementations, the functions marked in the box can also occur in an order different from that marked in the drawings. For example, two boxes represented in succession can actually be executed substantially in parallel, and they can sometimes be executed in the opposite order, depending on the functions involved. It should also be noted that each box in the block diagram or flowchart, and the combination of boxes in the block diagram or flowchart, can be implemented with a dedicated hardware-based system that performs the specified function or operation, or can be implemented with a combination of dedicated hardware and computer instructions.

[0133] Finally, it should be noted that the above embodiments are only used to illustrate the technical solutions of the present application, rather than to limit them. Although the present application has been described in detail with reference to the aforementioned embodiments, those skilled in the art should understand that they can still modify the technical solutions described in the aforementioned embodiments, or make equivalent replacements for some or all of the technical features therein. These modifications or replacements do not deviate the essence of the corresponding technical solutions from the scope of the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present application.

[0134] For ease of explanation, the above description has been presented in conjunction with specific embodiments. However, the above exemplary discussion is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the embodiments to the specific forms disclosed above. Based on the above teachings, various modifications and variations are possible. The above embodiments have been selected and described to better explain the principles and practical applications, thereby enabling those skilled in the art to better utilize the embodiments and various different variations of the embodiments suitable for specific use considerations.

Claims

1. A washing machine, characterized in that: include: Box; A washing drum provided inside the box body, for accommodating clothes to be washed; and a clothing opening and a door provided on the side of the box body, wherein the edge of the clothing opening is provided with a door seal cooperating with the door, and the door seal comprises a sealing ring and sealing folds connected to each other; a spray device, provided on the door seal; A controller is electrically connected to the spray device, and the controller is configured to perform the following steps: obtaining a start instruction for instructing to wash the laundry; In response to the start instruction, the spray device is controlled to flush the sealing ring, the sealing folds and the chamber door according to a preset first time threshold, and the sewage generated during the flushing process is discharged, and a water injection signal is generated after the sewage discharge is completed; The washing machine is controlled to inject washing water according to the water injection signal, and the laundry is washed according to a preset washing program after the water injection is completed.

2. The washing machine according to claim 1, wherein The controller is further configured to: After the washing program is completed, when the dehydration program is executed, the spray device is controlled to rinse the sealing ring, the sealing folds and the box door together according to a preset second time threshold.

3. The washing machine according to claim 2, characterized in that The controller is further configured to: During the execution of the dehydration program, if the corresponding dehydration speed reaches a preset speed threshold, the spray device is controlled to flush the sealing ring, the sealing folds and the box door together according to a preset third time threshold.

4. The washing machine according to claim 2 or 3, characterized in that: The controller is further configured to: During the execution of the dehydration program, judging whether the remaining time of the dehydration program meets a preset remaining dehydration time threshold according to the preset dehydration time and the execution time of the dehydration program; If yes, the spray device is controlled to rinse the sealing ring, the sealing folds and the door together according to a preset fourth time threshold, and after the rinsing is completed, the dehydration process is continued until the process ends; If not, continue to execute the dehydration procedure.

5. The washing machine according to claim 1, wherein The spray device includes a water inlet valve and a spray head, wherein the water inlet valve is connected to the spray head, and the spray head is used to spray water entering through the water inlet valve to achieve flushing; the controller is further configured to: When the sealing ring, the sealing folds and the door are flushed together, the water inlet valve is controlled to open; When the opening time of the water inlet valve meets the preset flushing time threshold, the water inlet valve is controlled to be closed.

6. The washing machine according to claim 5, characterized in that The controller is further configured to: Obtaining the target water pressure when the sprinkler device is activated; During the process of adjusting the opening of the water inlet valve, when the water pressure flowing through the water inlet valve meets the target water pressure, the adjustment of the opening of the water inlet valve is stopped.

7. The washing machine according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that: Also includes a stain identification module electrically connected to the controller; the controller is further configured to: Before flushing the sealing ring, the sealing folds and the chamber door together, controlling the stain recognition module to recognize the stain on the sealing ring to obtain the stain area on the sealing ring; When the stain area is larger than a preset area threshold, the preset replenishment time is added to the first duration threshold to obtain an updated first duration threshold, and the sealing ring, the sealing folds and the box door are flushed together according to the updated first duration threshold.

8. The washing machine according to claim 5, characterized in that The nozzle comprises: A nozzle, wherein the water outlet end of the nozzle is provided with a first water spray port and a second water spray port, the middle portion of the nozzle is provided with a third water spray port, and the water inlet end of the nozzle is provided with a stop rib; a shell sleeved on the outside of the nozzle, wherein the nozzle is slidably connected to the shell; A damping member is provided between the housing and the nozzle, the stop rib abuts against one end of the damping member, a blocking cover is provided at the water outlet end of the housing, a through hole for penetrating the nozzle is provided in the middle of the blocking cover, and the other end of the damping member abuts against the inner diameter edge of the through hole; When the water inlet valve is opened, water pressure is generated at the water inlet end of the shell to compress the damping member and cause the water outlet end of the nozzle to slide out of the shell, flushing the box door through the first water spray port, flushing the sealing ring through the second water spray port, and flushing the sealing folds through the third water spray port.

9. The washing machine according to claim 8, characterized in that The water inlet end of the shell is provided with an inwardly protruding blocking ring, and the inner diameter of the blocking ring is smaller than the outer diameter of the water inlet end of the nozzle; When the water inlet valve is closed, the water inlet end of the shell stops generating water pressure, so that the damping member recovers its original length, and pushes the nozzle toward the water inlet end of the shell during the recovery process of the damping member. The water inlet end of the nozzle is blocked based on the blocking ring to limit the water inlet end of the nozzle from sliding out of the water inlet end of the shell.

10. The washing machine according to claim 8, characterized in that The stop rib is provided with a guide rib, and the inner wall of the shell is provided with a slide groove that is adapted to the guide rib, and the slide groove is arranged along the length direction of the shell; When the water inlet valve is opened, the nozzle moves along the length direction of the chute based on the guidance of the guide rib by the chute to limit the circumferential rotation of the nozzle.

Images