Clothing treatment equipment and lint filtering assembly thereof

Abstract

The invention provides clothes processing equipment and a lint filtering assembly thereof, the lint filtering assembly is configured to be installed in a drawing channel of the clothes processing equipment in a drawable mode, is provided with a windward side and a leeward side, and comprises a frame and a filtering piece installed on the frame; a first sealing structure is arranged on the portion, located on the windward side, of the frame, and the first sealing structure is used for preventing line scraps from entering the drawing channel through the windward side. The first sealing structure is arranged on the portion, located on the windward side of the drying air duct, of the frame of the thread scrap filtering assembly and used for preventing the thread scraps from entering the drawing channel for drawing movement of the thread scrap filtering assembly through the windward side, and the situation that the thread scrap filtering assembly is not installed in place due to thread scrap accumulation in the drawing channel is prevented.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of clothing processing technology, and in particular to a clothing processing device and its lint filtering component. Background Technology

[0002] With the improvement of residents' living standards, existing washing machines not only need to meet the needs of washing, but also the need for drying clothes after washing. Washer-dryer combos have emerged to meet this need. The working principle of a washer-dryer combo is roughly as follows: air is heated by a heater and then enters the drum to heat the clothes. The air inside the drum becomes hot and humid, and then the moisture is condensed into water and collected in a water tank through a condensation system, forming a circulation that continuously removes moisture from the clothes to achieve the purpose of drying them. The heater can be, for example, an electric heater or an evaporator in a heat pump system.

[0003] However, during the air circulation process, the air will carry lint that has fallen off the clothes due to wear and tear. If this lint continues to circulate in the machine for a long time, it may block the drying air duct and may also adhere to the clothes being dried, affecting the drying effect.

[0004] To prevent lint from clogging the drying air duct, a lint filter is usually installed in the drying air duct to remove lint from the drying air. The lint filter is then cleaned to prevent it from becoming ineffective.

[0005] In related technologies, lint filters are removable and installed in the drying duct for easy cleaning by the user. However, during the drying process, air in the drying duct passes not only through the lint filter but also through the gap between the lint filter and the drying duct. This results in lint remaining in the gap, causing it to fall into the drying duct when the lint filter is pulled out. Pushing the filter back into the duct causes lint to accumulate behind it, making proper reinstallation difficult and resulting in the accumulation of lint that is very hard to clean.

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

[0007] The technical problem to be solved by the present invention is to overcome at least some of the deficiencies of the prior art and provide a lint filter assembly for a garment processing device. By setting a first sealing structure on the frame of the lint filter assembly and on the windward side of the drying air duct, the lint is prevented from entering the pull-out channel for the lint filter assembly to be pulled out via the windward side, thereby preventing the lint from accumulating in the pull-out channel and causing the lint filter assembly to be improperly installed.

[0008] To solve the above technical problems, the present invention provides a lint filter assembly for a garment processing device, configured to be removably installed in the pull-out channel of the garment processing device, having a windward side and a leeward side, the lint filter assembly including a frame and a filter element installed on the frame;

[0009] A first sealing structure is provided on the frame on the windward side, the first sealing structure being used to prevent lint from entering the pull-out channel via the windward side.

[0010] In some embodiments, the first sealing structure is an annular protrusion disposed on the frame and located on the windward side;

[0011] When the lint filter assembly is installed in the pull-out channel, the annular protrusion fits into the inner wall of the pull-out channel.

[0012] In some embodiments, the annular protrusion is a soft rubber injection molded onto the frame.

[0013] In some embodiments, the frame includes a first subframe located on the windward side and a second subframe snapped into the first subframe, the second subframe being located on the leeward side.

[0014] The first sealing structure is located on the side of the first subframe facing away from the second subframe.

[0015] In some embodiments, an annular barrier wall is provided on the side of the first sub-frame facing the second sub-frame. The annular barrier wall extends in the direction toward the second sub-frame and is used to prevent wire debris from entering the pull-out channel through the insertion gap between the first sub-frame and the second sub-frame.

[0016] In some embodiments, the frame further includes a third subframe sandwiched between the first subframe and the second subframe;

[0017] The third sub-frame is inserted into both the first and second sub-frames at one end facing the first sub-frame to prevent wire debris from entering the pull-out channel through the insertion gap between the first and second sub-frames.

[0018] In some embodiments, the third subframe is provided with a transverse blocking rib and a longitudinal blocking rib at one end facing the first subframe, the transverse blocking rib extending in the direction toward the first subframe and the longitudinal blocking rib extending in the direction toward the end of the second subframe.

[0019] The first subframe has a first mounting groove on the side facing the second subframe, and the second subframe has a second mounting groove at the end facing the first subframe. The transverse blocking rib and the longitudinal blocking rib are respectively inserted into the first mounting groove and the second mounting groove.

[0020] In some embodiments, a second sealing structure is provided between the second subframe and the first subframe at one end located on the leeward side, the second sealing structure being used to prevent lint from entering the pull-out channel via the leeward side.

[0021] In some embodiments, the second sealing structure includes:

[0022] A ring-shaped flange is provided on one end of the second subframe located on the leeward side and on one of the first subframes;

[0023] An annular groove is provided on one end of the second subframe located on the leeward side and on the other of the first subframe;

[0024] The annular flange is inserted into the annular groove.

[0025] The present invention also provides a garment processing device, including a lint filter assembly according to the garment processing device described above.

[0026] By adopting the above technical solution, the present invention has the following beneficial effects compared with the prior art.

[0027] (1) The lint filter assembly of the clothing processing equipment provided by the present invention has a first sealing structure set on the frame of the lint filter assembly and on the windward side of the drying air duct to prevent lint from entering the pull-out channel for the lint filter assembly to be pulled out via the windward side, and to prevent the lint from accumulating in the pull-out channel and causing the lint filter assembly to be installed in a way that is not in place.

[0028] (2) The lint filter assembly of the clothing processing device provided by the present invention sets the frame of the lint filter assembly in such a way that the first sub-frame and the second sub-frame are connected by a snap fastener, and the second sub-frame on the leeward side is inserted in the first sub-frame on the windward side, so as to prevent lint from entering the pull-out channel through the snap-fit ​​gap between the first sub-frame and the second sub-frame.

[0029] (3) The lint filter assembly of the clothing processing equipment provided by the present invention further improves the sealing performance between the first sub-frame and the second sub-frame by setting a blocking structure on the first sub-frame and / or the second sub-frame to block lint from entering the pull-out channel through the insertion gap between the first sub-frame and the second sub-frame. Attached Figure Description

[0030] The accompanying drawings, as part of this invention, are used to provide a further understanding of the invention. The illustrative embodiments and descriptions of the invention are used to explain the invention, but do not constitute an undue limitation of the invention. Obviously, the drawings described below are merely some embodiments, and those skilled in the art can obtain other drawings based on these drawings without creative effort. In the drawings:

[0031] Figure 1 This is a partial structural schematic diagram of a garment processing device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

[0032] Figure 2 This is a partial internal structure diagram of a garment processing device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

[0033] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 Left view of the middle structure;

[0034] Figure 4 yes Figure 3 Sectional view of the middle structure along line AA;

[0035] Figure 5 yes Figure 4 A magnified view of a portion of the structure at point I;

[0036] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the lint filter assembly after it is installed on the front panel according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

[0037] Figure 7 yes Figure 6 A schematic diagram of the structure of a first exemplary embodiment, viewed in cross section BB;

[0038] Figure 8 yes Figure 7 Enlarged view of section II of the middle structure;

[0039] Figure 9 yes Figure 6 A structural schematic diagram of a second exemplary embodiment, viewed in cross-section from the BB direction;

[0040] Figure 10 yes Figure 9 A magnified view of section III of the central structure;

[0041] Figure 11 yes Figure 6 Front view of the middle structure;

[0042] Figure 12 yes Figure 11 CC-direction sectional view of the middle structure;

[0043] Figure 13 yes Figure 12 Enlarged view of a portion of the IV section of the central structure;

[0044] Figure 14 and Figure 15 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a lint filter assembly according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

[0045] Figure 16 and Figure 17 This is a schematic diagram of the locking structure of a lint filter assembly according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

[0046] Figure 18 This is a partial structural schematic diagram of the front panel of a garment processing device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[0047] In the picture: 100, clothing processing equipment;

[0048] 10. Front panel; 11. Filter inlet; 12. Second limit protrusion; 13. Stop block; 14. Guide groove;

[0049] 20. Wire lint filter assembly; 21. Frame; 211. Guide rail; 212. First sub-frame; 2121. First sealing structure; 2122. Annular barrier wall; 2123. First mounting groove; 2124. Annular groove; 213. Second sub-frame; 2131. Second mounting groove; 2132. Annular flange; 214. Third sub-frame; 2141. Transverse barrier rib; 2142. Longitudinal barrier rib; 22. Locking structure; 221. Fixing Part; 2211, First limiting groove; 2212, Shaft hole; 222, Lever arm; 2221, Lock hook; 2222, Handle groove; 2223, Second limiting groove; 2224, Rotating shaft; 23, Torsion spring; 24, Handle; 241, Panel; 242, Base plate; 2421, First limiting protrusion; 243, Front plate; 2431, First through-hole groove; 244, First side plate; 245, Second side plate; 2451, Second through-hole groove; 246, Guide wall;

[0050] 30. Drying air duct; 31. Pull-out channel; 32. Spray arm;

[0051] 40. Drying device.

[0052] It should be noted that these accompanying drawings and textual descriptions are not intended to limit the scope of the invention in any way, but rather to illustrate the concept of the invention to those skilled in the art by referring to specific embodiments. Detailed Implementation

[0053] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of the embodiments of the present invention clearer, the technical solutions in the embodiments will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. The following embodiments are used to illustrate the present invention, but are not intended to limit the scope of the present invention.

[0054] In the description of this invention, it should be noted that the terms "upper", "lower", "front", "rear", "left", "right", "vertical", "inner", "outer", etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They are only for the convenience of describing this invention and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limiting this invention.

[0055] In the description of this invention, it should be noted that, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," and "linking" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this invention based on the specific circumstances.

[0056] As described in the background section, the lint filter in the related art is removable and installed in the drying duct for easy cleaning by the user. However, during the drying process, in addition to passing through the lint filter, the air in the drying duct may also pass through the gap between the lint filter and the drying duct. This can result in lint remaining in the gap between the lint filter and the drying duct. When the lint filter is pulled out, the lint will fall into the drying duct. When the lint filter is pushed back into the drying duct, lint will accumulate behind the lint filter, making it difficult to reinstall properly. Moreover, the lint accumulated behind the lint filter is very difficult to clean.

[0057] To address the aforementioned problems, this invention provides a lint filter assembly for a garment processing device, configured to be removably installed within a pull-out channel of the garment processing device. The assembly has a windward side and a leeward side. The lint filter assembly includes a frame and a filter element mounted on the frame. A first sealing structure is provided on the frame on the windward side to prevent lint from entering the pull-out channel via the windward side. In this solution, by providing a first sealing structure on the frame of the lint filter assembly on the windward side of the drying air duct, lint is prevented from entering the pull-out channel where the lint filter assembly is removable, thus preventing lint accumulation in the pull-out channel and ensuring proper installation of the lint filter assembly.

[0058] The following is in conjunction with the appendix Figure 1 To be continued Figure 18 The preferred technical solutions of the garment processing device 100 and its lint filtering component 20 of the present invention are described.

[0059] The garment processing equipment 100 includes a housing, a drum assembly disposed within the housing, and a drying device 40 disposed above the drum assembly. For example... Figure 1 As shown, the drying device 40 is connected to the drum assembly via the drying air duct 30 to form a drying air path, which uses heated air to dry the clothes in the clothing processing equipment 100. The drying air duct 30 is equipped with a removable lint filter assembly 20, which is used to filter foreign objects such as lint in the airflow of the drying air path. That is, the drying air duct 30 includes a pull-out channel 31 for the lint filter assembly 20 to be pulled out.

[0060] In some implementations, such as Figure 2 As shown, the structure of the drying duct 30 upstream of the lint filter assembly 20 is configured as a curved surface, and a spray arm 32 is provided in this area for spraying and cleaning this part of the drying duct 30. This helps prevent lint from accumulating in the drying duct 30, and the curved structure also facilitates the flow of spray water, achieving thorough cleaning without dead angles. It should be noted that the spray holes on the spray arm 32 can spray funnel-shaped water jets to clean the drying duct 30.

[0061] The garment processing device 100 also includes a front panel 10, which is disposed at the upper front of the garment processing device 100 and forms part of the outer contour of the garment processing device 100. A filter inlet 11 is provided on the front panel 10, see reference... Figure 6 and Figure 18 As shown, the lint filter assembly 20 is inserted and removed in the front-to-back direction via the filter port 11. That is, the insertion and removal directions of the lint filter assembly 20 are consistent with the front-to-back direction, with the insertion direction being rearward and the removal direction being frontward. In some embodiments, the front panel 10 also has mounting holes for installing display control components.

[0062] Refer again Figure 2 As shown, the lint filter assembly 20 has a windward side and a leeward side in the drying air duct 30. The lint filter assembly 20 includes a frame 21 and a filter element mounted on the frame 21. A first sealing structure 2121 is provided on the frame 21 on the windward side. The first sealing structure 2121 is used to prevent lint from entering the pull-out channel 31 via the windward side.

[0063] In some implementations, such as Figures 3 to 5As shown, the first sealing structure 2121 is an annular protrusion located on the windward side of the frame 21. When the lint filter assembly 20 is installed in the pull-out channel 31, the annular protrusion presses against the inner wall of the pull-out channel 31. Thus, when air flows through the pull-out channel 31 in the drying duct 30, the air is completely blocked and concentrated by the annular protrusion, preventing it from entering the pull-out channel 31 on the windward side. This prevents lint from accumulating in the pull-out channel 31 and also prevents unfiltered air from entering the drum assembly, which could cause lint to adhere to the dried clothes and affect the drying effect.

[0064] It should be noted that the aforementioned annular protrusion is not necessarily a circular structure. In essence, it matches the structural shape of the frame 21 and the pull-out channel 31, but it must be a shape capable of closing the circumferential gap of the frame 21 and the pull-out channel 31 on the windward side in the airflow direction. Furthermore, when the annular protrusion extends approximately in the lateral direction, it abuts against the front and rear side walls and the left side wall of the pull-out channel 31. When the annular protrusion extends approximately in the radial direction, it abuts against the front and rear side walls and the upper and lower bottom walls of the pull-out channel 31.

[0065] In some embodiments, the annular protrusion is a soft rubber injection molded onto the frame 21. It is understood that the frame 21 of the lint filter assembly 20 is generally made of hard plastic through a single injection molding process. However, to improve the sealing performance between the annular protrusion and the inner wall of the pull-out channel 31, the annular protrusion is formed on the frame 21 using a soft rubber injection molding process, thereby improving the fit between the annular protrusion and the inner wall of the pull-out channel 31.

[0066] In some implementations, such as Figure 5 , Figure 7 and 9 As shown, the frame 21 includes a first sub-frame 212 located on the windward side and a second sub-frame 213 connected to the first sub-frame 212 by a snap fastener, the second sub-frame 213 being located on the leeward side; wherein, the first sealing structure 2121 is disposed on the side of the first sub-frame 212 facing away from the second sub-frame 213.

[0067] Optionally, the cross-sections of the first sub-frame 212 and the second sub-frame 213 in the pull-out direction are generally U-shaped. The overall size of the first sub-frame 212 is larger than the overall size of the second sub-frame 213. The second sub-frame 213 is inserted into the first sub-frame 213. Furthermore, the second sub-frame 213 and the first sub-frame 212 are provided with a snap-fit ​​connection structure on their side walls in the pull-out direction, thereby realizing the snap-fit ​​connection between the first sub-frame 212 and the second sub-frame 213.

[0068] In the above solution, by setting the frame 21 of the lint filter assembly 20 to be connected by a first sub-frame 212 and a second sub-frame 213, and by inserting the second sub-frame 213 located on the leeward side into the first sub-frame 212 located on the windward side, the contact area between the first sub-frame 212 and the second sub-frame 213 can be covered inside the first sub-frame 212. Compared with the first sub-frame 212 and the second sub-frame 213 being directly fastened, the present invention uses the method of connecting the first sub-frame 212 and the second sub-frame 213 by an insertion, which extends the length of the contact area between the first sub-frame 212 and the second sub-frame 213, and helps to prevent lint from entering the pull-out channel 31 through the insertion gap between the first sub-frame 212 and the second sub-frame 213.

[0069] As an example, refer to Figure 14 As shown, both the first sub-frame 212 and the second sub-frame 213 have multiple opening windows, the number of which can be arbitrarily set, for example, six or eight. A filter element (not shown) is installed on each sub-frame 21. The filter element can be, for example, a filter screen or filter cotton, where the mesh size of the filter screen can be arbitrarily set as needed. For example, the filter element installed on the first sub-frame 212 can be a filter screen to filter out larger lint, while the filter element installed on the second sub-frame 213 can be filter cotton to filter out fine lint.

[0070] Understandably, when the filter element is detachably mounted on the first subframe 212 and the second subframe 213, the lint filter assembly 20 can be pulled out of the filter port 11 to a position where the filter element can be removed.

[0071] In some implementations, such as Figure 9 and Figure 10 As shown, a second sealing structure is provided between the end of the second sub-frame 213 located on the leeward side and the first sub-frame 212. In this way, when the drying air passes through the filter on the first sub-frame 212, it can pass through the filter on the second sub-frame 213 under the blocking effect of the second sealing structure, and will not enter the pull-out channel 31 through the gap between the first sub-frame 212 and the second sub-frame 213 on the leeward side.

[0072] As an example, the second sealing structure includes an insertable annular flange 2132 and an annular groove 2124, wherein the annular flange 2132 is disposed on one end of the second subframe 213 located on the leeward side and on one of the first subframe 212, and the annular groove 2124 is disposed on one end of the second subframe 213 located on the leeward side and on the other of the first subframe 212.

[0073] It should be noted that the extension directions of the annular flange 2132 and the annular groove 2124 are approximately perpendicular to the airflow direction.

[0074] In the above solution, the purpose of preventing lint from entering the pull-out channel 31 via the leeward side is achieved by changing the direction of airflow. The structure is simple and easy to implement.

[0075] In some implementations, such as Figure 7 and Figure 8 As shown, an annular barrier wall 2122 is provided on the side of the first sub-frame 212 facing the second sub-frame 213. The annular barrier wall 2122 extends in the direction toward the second sub-frame 213. In other words, the extension direction of the annular barrier wall 2122 is approximately consistent with the airflow direction. The annular barrier wall 2122 is used to prevent wire debris from entering the pull-out channel 31 through the insertion gap between the first sub-frame 212 and the second sub-frame 213.

[0076] Specifically, the annular barrier wall 2122 is set on the bottom wall of the U-shaped first sub-frame 212 near the end of the first sub-frame 212. In this way, when air passes through the first sub-frame 212, it flows forward under the blocking and guiding effect of the annular barrier wall 2122, and will not enter the pull-out channel 31 through the gap between the first sub-frame 212 and the second sub-frame 213.

[0077] Optionally, the frame 21 further includes a third subframe 214 sandwiched between the first subframe 212 and the second subframe 213. The third subframe 214 is also used to install filter screens or filter cotton and other filter components. The free end of the annular barrier wall 2122 abuts against the third subframe 214, so that air can be further guided to flow sequentially to the third subframe 214 and the second subframe 213.

[0078] In other embodiments, refer again Figure 9 and Figure 10 The third sub-frame 214 is provided with a transverse blocking rib 2141 and a longitudinal blocking rib 2142 at one end facing the first sub-frame 212. The transverse blocking rib 2141 extends in the direction facing the first sub-frame 212, and the longitudinal blocking rib 2142 extends in the direction facing the end of the second sub-frame 213. The first sub-frame 212 is provided with a first mounting groove 2123 on one side facing the second sub-frame 213, and the second sub-frame 213 is provided with a second mounting groove 2131 at the end facing the first sub-frame 212. The transverse blocking rib 2141 and the longitudinal blocking rib 2142 are respectively inserted into the first mounting groove 2123 and the second mounting groove 2131.

[0079] In the above scheme, by setting transverse blocking ribs 2141 and longitudinal blocking ribs 2142, and in conjunction with the second sealing structure mentioned above, a labyrinth-type sealing structure is formed between the first sub-frame 212 and the second sub-frame 213. By changing the direction of airflow, the purpose of preventing lint from entering the pull-out channel 31 via the leeward side is achieved. The structure is simple and easy to implement.

[0080] In addition, during the drying process, the air pressure in the drying duct can push the lint filter assembly outward, which may not only cause seal failure but also pose a safety hazard to the user.

[0081] To address the aforementioned problems, the lint filter assembly provided by this invention further includes a locking structure connected to the frame. The locking structure comprises a fixing part and a lever arm. The fixing part is connected to the frame, and the lever arm is rotatably connected to the fixing part. One end of the lever arm is configured as an operating end, and the other end is configured as a locking end. When the operating end is actuated to unlock the locking end, the lint filter assembly can be inserted and removed. In this solution, the locking structure on the lint filter assembly allows switching between locked and unlocked states by actuating the operating end of the lever arm. This ensures that the insertion and removal of the lint filter assembly is not affected and that the lint filter assembly is not susceptible to sealing failure due to air pressure, thereby improving the heat exchange efficiency and drying performance of the garment processing equipment.

[0082] Specifically, such as Figure 11 and Figure 18 As shown, the locking structure 22 includes a fixing part 221 and a lever arm 222. The fixing part 221 is connected to the frame 21, and the lever arm 222 is rotatably connected to the fixing part 221. One end of the lever arm 222 is configured as an operating end, and the other end is configured as a locking end. Correspondingly, the front panel 10 is provided with a limiting part for limiting the locking end. When the limiting part limits the locking end, the locking end is in a locked state, and the lint filter assembly 20 cannot be inserted or removed in the front-back direction through the filter port 11, nor can it move in the front-back direction. When the limiting part releases the locking end, the locking end is in an unlocked state, and the lint filter assembly 20 can be inserted or removed in the front-back direction through the filter port 11.

[0083] Specifically, when the lint filter assembly 20 needs cleaning, the user can unlock the locking end of the lever arm 222 by operating the lever arm 222, and then pull the lint filter assembly 20 out of the filter socket 11 for cleaning. After cleaning, the lint filter assembly 20 is reinserted into the filter socket 11, and the limiting part is then used to limit the locking end by operating the lever arm 222 to prevent the lint filter assembly 20 from shifting in the filter socket 11.

[0084] In some implementations, refer to Figure 13 As shown, the locking end is configured as a locking hook 2221, and the limiting part is configured as a stop block 13; wherein, in the unlocked state, the locking hook 2221 and the stop block 13 are separated from each other; in the locked state, the locking hook 2221 abuts against the stop block 13.

[0085] In detail, the lever arm 222 can be constructed as a plate-like structure that extends generally along the insertion / extraction direction. The locking end of the lever arm 222 is constructed as a hook 2221 extending generally perpendicular to the insertion / extraction direction, and the limiting part is constructed as a stop block 13 located on the side of the hook 2221 facing the extraction direction. When a force is applied to the operating end of the lever arm 222 toward the stop block 13, according to the lever principle, the hook 2221 moves away from the stop block 13, thereby separating from the stop block 13, causing the stop block 13 to lose its limiting effect on the hook 2221, and the hook 2221 is in an unlocked state. When a force is applied to the operating end of the lever arm 222 away from the stop block 13, according to the lever principle, the hook 2221 moves toward the stop block 13, thereby abutting against the stop block 13, causing the stop block 13 to limit the hook 2221, and the hook 2221 is in a locked state.

[0086] One implementation is that the user can apply a force toward the stop block 13 to the operating end of the lever arm 222, and also apply a force away from the stop block 13 to the operating end of the lever arm 222.

[0087] Another implementation is that the user applies a force toward the stop block 13 to the operating end of the lever arm 222, while the force applied away from the stop block 13 to the operating end of the lever arm 222 can be implemented by a structure with restoring force.

[0088] The present invention provides two embodiments for applying a force away from the stop block 13 to the operating end of the lever arm 222 using a structure with restoring force. The two embodiments are described in detail below.

[0089] Method 1

[0090] In this embodiment, the lever arm 222 and the fixing part 221 are rotatably connected by a spring shaft; wherein, the spring shaft is configured to have a spring force that tends to put the locking end into a locked state, and the locking end is put into an unlocked state by actuating the operating end to overcome the spring force.

[0091] Specifically, when the lint filter assembly 20 needs cleaning, the user overcomes the elastic force of the spring shaft by operating the lever arm 222, causing the lever arm 222 to rotate around the spring shaft. At this time, the locking hook 2221 moves away from the stop block 13, thus separating from the stop block 13. After cleaning, the lint filter assembly 20 is inserted into the filter inlet 11. Under the elastic force of the spring shaft, the locking hook 2221 tends to move closer to the stop block 13, thus abutting against the stop block 13.

[0092] It should be noted that since the stop block 13 is located on the side of the locking hook 2221 facing the pull-out direction, the insertion of the lint filter assembly 20 into the filter socket 11 will be blocked by the stop block 13. Therefore, when the blocking effect of the stop block 13 is felt during the insertion of the lint filter assembly 20 into the filter socket 11, the operating end of the lever arm 222 can be actuated again to overcome the elastic force of the spring shaft, so that the locking hook 2221 moves away from the stop block 13 to avoid the stop block 13. After the lint filter assembly 20 is fully inserted into the filter socket 11, the actuation of the operating end of the lever arm 222 is canceled, so that the locking hook 2221 tends to move closer to the stop block 13 under the elastic force of the spring shaft.

[0093] Alternatively, the rear side of the locking hook 2221 along the insertion / removal direction and the front side of the stop block 13 along the insertion / removal direction can be set as inclined slopes. In this way, when the lint filter assembly 20 is inserted into the filter inlet 11, under the action of the inclined sides of the stop block 13 and the locking hook 2221, the locking hook 2221 is slightly deformed and slides to the rear side of the stop block 13 and abuts against the stop block 13.

[0094] Method 2

[0095] In this embodiment, such as Figure 17 As shown, one of the fixing part 221 and the lever arm 222 is provided with a rotating shaft 2224, and the other of the fixing part 221 and the lever arm 222 is provided with a shaft hole 2212, in which the rotating shaft 2224 is inserted; wherein, a torsion spring 23 is provided between the fixing part 221 and the lever arm 222, the torsion spring 23 is configured to have a spring force that tends to put the locking end in a locked state, and the locking end is put in an unlocked state by actuating the operating end to overcome the spring force.

[0096] It is understood that, since the torsion spring 23 is also configured to have a spring force that tends to put the locking end into a locked state, the force applied during the process of pulling out and inserting the lint filter assembly 20 from the filter port 11 can be referred to in Method 1, which will not be described again here.

[0097] Furthermore, the fixing part 221 is provided with a first limiting groove 2211, and the first torsion arm of the torsion spring 23 is engaged in the first limiting groove 2211; the lever arm 222 is provided with a second limiting groove 2223, and the second torsion arm of the torsion spring 23 is engaged in the second limiting groove 2223. This can prevent the torsion spring 23 from slipping out and losing the elastic force that tends to keep the locking end in the locked state.

[0098] In some embodiments, the lever arm 222 with its plate-like structure is provided with multiple reinforcing ribs to enhance the structural strength of the lever arm 222 and prevent the lever arm 222 from breaking.

[0099] In some implementations, such as Figure 14 As shown, the lint filter assembly 20 also includes a handle 24, which is connected to the frame 21. The handle 24 has a handle groove; wherein the operating end is located in the handle groove, and the lint filter assembly 20 is inserted or removed through the handle groove when the operating end is operated. Further, the operating end is configured as a latching groove 2222; wherein the opening direction of the latching groove 2222 is consistent with the opening direction of the handle groove.

[0100] In the above solution, the present invention constructs the operating end of the lever arm 222 into a hand-holding groove 2222, and makes the opening direction of the hand-holding groove 2222 consistent with the opening direction of the handle groove, so that the user can complete the unlocking and plugging / unplugging with only one hand-holding action, simplifying the user's operation process and improving the user experience.

[0101] As an example, the handle 24 can be directly connected to the frame 21, and the fixing part 221 can be connected to the handle 24 to achieve a relatively fixed connection between the fixing part 221 and the frame 21. Alternatively, the fixing part 221 can be directly connected to the frame 21, and the handle 24 can be connected to the fixing part 221 to achieve a relatively fixed connection between the handle 24 and the frame 21. Furthermore, both the handle 24 and the fixing part 221 can be directly connected to the frame 21 to achieve a relatively fixed connection between both and the frame 21.

[0102] It should be noted that the handle 24, frame 21 and fixing part 221 can be fixed by means of snap-fit, bolt connection and other methods commonly used in the art, which will not be described in detail here.

[0103] In some implementations, such as Figure 13As shown, the handle 24 includes a panel 241, a base plate 242, a front plate 243, and a first side plate 244 and a second side plate 245 arranged opposite each other in the left-right direction. A fixing part 221 is disposed in the mounting space formed by the base plate 242, the front plate 243, the first side plate 244, and the second side plate 245. The front plate 243, the front portion of the panel 241, and the front portion of the second side plate 245 form the aforementioned handle groove. The front plate 243 has a first through-hole groove 2431 to avoid the lever arm 222, so that the lever arm 222's latch groove 2222 is located in the handle groove. The rear portion of the second side plate 245 has a second through-hole groove 2451 to avoid the locking hook 2221. (Refer to...) Figure 6 This allows the locking hook 2221 to pass through the second through-hole groove 2451 and abut against the stop block 13.

[0104] In some embodiments, the handle 24 is further provided with a first limiting protrusion 2421, and correspondingly, the front panel 10 is provided with a second limiting protrusion 12 for engaging the first limiting protrusion 2421. The first limiting protrusion 2421 and the second limiting protrusion 12 cooperate to position and fix the lint filter assembly 20. As an example, the handle 24 is also provided with a guide wall 246, and correspondingly, the front panel 10 is provided with a guide groove 14 for guiding the guide wall 246. Through the cooperation of the guide wall 246 and the guide groove 14, the lint filter assembly 20 can not only be precisely positioned inside the garment processing equipment 100, but also effectively prevent movement or displacement during use, thereby ensuring the filtration effect and the overall performance of the garment processing equipment 100.

[0105] In other words, the lint filter assembly 20 provided by the present invention is equipped with a dual limiting structure of primary limiting and secondary locking, which can not only ensure user safety, but also guarantee the excellent sealing performance of the lint filter assembly 20.

[0106] As an example, a through hole is provided on the base plate 242 of the handle 24, and a spring is provided at the through hole. The first limiting protrusion 2421 mentioned above is provided on the side of the spring facing downward. In order to further ensure the precise positioning of the lint filter assembly 20 inside the garment processing device 100, the above-mentioned limiting protrusion can also be provided on the upper side of the handle 24 corresponding to the base plate 242. Correspondingly, a second limiting protrusion 12 is also provided above the filter inlet 11 on the front panel 10.

[0107] Furthermore, a sealing structure is provided between the frame 21 and the handle 24. The sealing structure is used to buffer the impact between the handle 24 and the housing, so as to prevent the handle 24 and the housing from being damaged due to collision, and at the same time ensure the airtightness during the drying process.

[0108] In some embodiments, the housing of the garment handling device 100 is provided with a groove extending in the insertion / removal direction; wherein, the frame 21 is provided with a guide rail 211 on one side corresponding to the groove, as shown in the figure. Figure 15 As shown, when the lint filter assembly 20 is inserted or removed, the frame 21 slides relative to the housing via the guide rail 211 and the slide groove.

[0109] In the above solution, the present invention provides a guide rail 211 extending along the insertion / removal direction on the frame 21, and a sliding groove on the housing for sliding the guide rail 211. This allows the lint filter assembly 20 to slide relative to the housing via the guide rail 211 and the sliding groove, ensuring the stability of the lint filter assembly 20 when it is pulled out of the filter inlet 11. Furthermore, restricting the movement of the lint filter assembly 20 to the extending direction of the guide rail 211 ensures that the lint filter assembly 20 will not fall off the housing or collide with other devices when moving inside the filter inlet 11, thus preventing damage to the garment processing equipment 100. It is understood that the guide rail 211 is located on the first sub-frame 212.

[0110] It should be noted that the length of the slide is the same as the length of the frame 21, and the width of the slide matches the width of the guide rail 211. It is understood that the number of slides and guide rails 211 can be set according to the actual product requirements, and the guide rails 211 can be positioned above and / or below the frame 21 according to the actual product requirements; this invention does not impose any limitations on this.

[0111] The above description is merely a preferred embodiment of the present invention and is not intended to limit the present invention in any way. Although the present invention has been disclosed above with reference to preferred embodiments, it is not intended to limit the present invention. Any person skilled in the art can make some modifications or alterations to the above-described technical content to create equivalent embodiments without departing from the scope of the present invention. Any simple modifications, equivalent changes, and alterations made to the above embodiments based on the technical essence of the present invention without departing from the scope of the present invention shall still fall within the scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. A lint filter assembly for a garment processing device, configured to be retractably installed within a pull-out channel of the garment processing device, having a windward side and a leeward side, the lint filter assembly comprising a frame and filter elements mounted on the frame; characterized in that, A first sealing structure is provided on the frame on the windward side, the first sealing structure being used to prevent lint from entering the pull-out channel via the windward side.

2. The lint filter assembly of the garment processing equipment according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first sealing structure is an annular protrusion disposed on the frame and located on the windward side; When the lint filter assembly is installed in the pull-out channel, the annular protrusion fits into the inner wall of the pull-out channel.

3. The lint filter assembly of the garment processing equipment according to claim 2, characterized in that, The annular protrusions are soft rubber injection molded onto the frame.

4. The lint filter assembly of the garment processing equipment according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, The frame includes a first sub-frame located on the windward side and a second sub-frame that is snapped into the first sub-frame, the second sub-frame being located on the leeward side; The first sealing structure is located on the side of the first subframe facing away from the second subframe.

5. The lint filter assembly of the garment processing equipment according to claim 4, characterized in that, An annular barrier wall is provided on the side of the first sub-frame facing the second sub-frame. The annular barrier wall extends in the direction towards the second sub-frame and is used to prevent wire debris from entering the pull-out channel through the insertion gap between the first sub-frame and the second sub-frame.

6. The lint filter assembly of the garment processing equipment according to claim 4, characterized in that, The frame also includes a third subframe sandwiched between the first subframe and the second subframe; The third sub-frame is inserted into both the first and second sub-frames at one end facing the first sub-frame to prevent wire debris from entering the pull-out channel through the insertion gap between the first and second sub-frames.

7. The lint filter assembly of the garment processing equipment according to claim 6, characterized in that, The third subframe is provided with a transverse blocking rib and a longitudinal blocking rib at one end facing the first subframe. The transverse blocking rib extends in the direction facing the first subframe, and the longitudinal blocking rib extends in the direction facing the end of the second subframe. The first subframe has a first mounting groove on the side facing the second subframe, and the second subframe has a second mounting groove at the end facing the first subframe. The transverse blocking rib and the longitudinal blocking rib are respectively inserted into the first mounting groove and the second mounting groove.

8. The lint filter assembly of the garment processing equipment according to claim 4, characterized in that, A second sealing structure is provided between the second subframe and the first subframe at one end located on the leeward side. The second sealing structure is used to prevent lint from entering the pull-out channel via the leeward side.

9. The lint filter assembly of the garment processing equipment according to claim 8, characterized in that, The second sealing structure includes: A ring-shaped flange is provided on one end of the second subframe located on the leeward side and on one of the first subframes; An annular groove is provided on one end of the second subframe located on the leeward side and on the other of the first subframe; The annular flange is inserted into the annular groove.

10. A garment processing device, characterized in that, Includes a lint filter assembly for a garment processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 9.

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