Water storage device of washing machine, washing machine and control method of washing machine

Abstract

The invention discloses a water storage device of a washing machine, the washing machine and a control method of the washing machine, the water storage device of the washing machine comprises a box body configured on the side face of a first barrel, the box body is provided with a water inlet and a water outlet, the water inlet is communicated with a water inlet mechanism, the water inlet mechanism is communicated with a liquid box, the liquid box is communicated with barrels, and the barrels comprise the first barrel; the water conveying mechanism is respectively communicated with the water outlet and the liquid box; the water conveying mechanism is configured to convey water in the box body to the liquid box so as to enter the barrel body; the water inlet mechanism is electrically connected with the water conveying mechanism. When the outdoor temperature is lower than the indoor temperature, the water storage device can store low-temperature water conveyed outdoors in the box body in advance through the water inlet mechanism, so that the low-temperature water absorbs heat of indoor air, heat generated in the using process of the washing machine or residual heat generated after the washing machine is used up, and the temperature is increased to obtain preheated water. When the washing machine is used, the preheated water in the box body is conveyed into the barrel body through the water conveying mechanism, the cleaning effect is improved, and energy consumption is reduced.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of washing machine technology, and more particularly to a water storage device for a washing machine, a washing machine, and a control method thereof. Background Technology

[0002] Increasing the water temperature can improve the cleaning effect of a washing machine, remove odors, kill bacteria and mites, and shorten washing time. In high-latitude regions, the average temperature of tap water is about 15°C or lower year-round. When the water temperature is low, the washing machine's cleaning effect is not ideal. If the tap water is heated using a washing heater to reach the target temperature required by the washing machine program, higher energy consumption is required.

[0003] In existing technologies, washing machines struggle to achieve both energy savings and effective cleaning.

[0004] Therefore, existing technologies still need improvement and development. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The technical problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide a water storage device for a washing machine, a washing machine and a control method thereof, in view of the above-mentioned defects of the prior art, so as to solve the problem that the washing machine in the prior art is difficult to achieve both energy saving and cleaning effect.

[0006] The technical solution adopted by this invention to solve the technical problem is as follows: A water storage device for a washing machine, comprising: A housing is disposed on the side of the first drum of the washing machine. The housing has a water inlet and a water outlet. The water inlet is connected to the water inlet mechanism of the washing machine. The water inlet mechanism is connected to the liquid box of the washing machine. The liquid box is connected to the drum of the washing machine. The drum includes the first drum. The water conveying mechanism is connected to the water outlet and the liquid box respectively; The water conveying mechanism is configured to deliver water from the tank to the liquid box so that it can enter the cylinder. The water inlet mechanism and the water delivery mechanism are electrically connected.

[0007] The water storage device of the washing machine, wherein the housing includes a first cover and a second cover, the first cover and the second cover being connected to each other; and / or The side of the first cylindrical body includes at least one of the following: upper side, lower side, left side, right side, front side, and rear side; and / or the side of the box body facing the first cylindrical body is adapted to the shape of the first cylindrical body; and / or The housing has a vent, which communicates with the cylinder or the outside; and / or The water storage device is equipped with a level gauge, which is configured to detect the water level inside the tank. The level gauge is electrically connected to the water inlet mechanism.

[0008] The water storage device of the washing machine, wherein the water delivery mechanism employs a water pump and / or a water valve.

[0009] A washing machine includes: a casing, a drum, a liquid tank, and a water inlet mechanism. The drum, the liquid tank, and the water inlet mechanism are all located within the casing, and the drum, the liquid tank, and the water inlet mechanism are sequentially connected. The drum includes a first drum body. The washing machine further includes: A housing is disposed on the side of the first cylinder, the housing having a water inlet and a water outlet, the water inlet being connected to the water inlet mechanism; The water conveying mechanism is connected to the water outlet and the liquid box respectively; The water conveying mechanism is configured to deliver water from the tank to the liquid box so that it can enter the cylinder. The water inlet mechanism and the water delivery mechanism are electrically connected.

[0010] The washing machine, wherein the washing machine further includes: A heating mechanism is configured to heat the water inside the cylinder; The heating mechanism is electrically connected to the water inlet mechanism.

[0011] The washing machine, wherein the casing includes a first cover and a second cover, the first cover and the second cover being connected to each other; and / or The side surface of the first cylinder includes at least one of the following: upper side surface, lower side surface, left side surface, right side surface, front side surface, and rear side surface; and / or The side of the housing facing the first cylindrical body is shaped to fit the first cylindrical body; and / or The housing has a vent, which communicates with the cylinder or the outside; and / or The tank is equipped with a level gauge, which is configured to detect the water level inside the tank and is electrically connected to the water inlet mechanism.

[0012] The washing machine, wherein the drum further includes at least one second drum; The liquid tank includes: A liquid storage chamber is configured to store a liquid selected from at least one of detergents, fabric softeners, and disinfectants; A mixing chamber, connected to the storage chamber, is configured to mix the liquid and the supplied water to form a mixture; The liquid mixing device is connected to the mixing chamber, the first cylinder, and the second cylinder, respectively; The liquid dispenser is configured to supply a mixture to the first cylinder and the second cylinder.

[0013] The washing machine, wherein the water delivery mechanism employs a water pump and / or a water valve; The water pump is connected to the bottom of the cylinder and is configured to discharge water from the cylinder.

[0014] A control method for a washing machine as described in any of the above claims, comprising the steps of: Control the water inlet mechanism to inject water into the tank; When using the washing machine, control the water supply mechanism to inject water into the drum.

[0015] The control method for the washing machine, wherein, after controlling the water supply mechanism to inject water into the drum when the washing machine is in use, the control method further includes: The heating mechanism is controlled to heat the water inside the cylinder; When the cylinder rotates, the water inlet mechanism is controlled to inject water into the tank.

[0016] Beneficial effects: When the outdoor temperature is lower than the indoor temperature, the water storage device can pre-store low-temperature water supplied from outside into the tank through the water inlet mechanism. This allows the low-temperature water to absorb heat from the indoor air, the heat generated during washing machine operation, or residual heat after washing, and then heat up to obtain preheated water. When using the washing machine, the preheated water in the tank is delivered to the drum through the water delivery mechanism, which helps improve the washing effect and saves energy consumption. Attached Figure Description

[0017] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the box in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0018] Figure 2 This is a first structural schematic diagram of the tank, water conveying mechanism, and water inlet mechanism in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0019] Figure 3 This is a second structural schematic diagram of the tank, water conveying mechanism, and water inlet mechanism in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0020] Figure 4 This is a first structural schematic diagram of the box, water conveying mechanism, water inlet mechanism, liquid box and cylinder in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0021] Figure 5 This is a second structural schematic diagram of the box, water conveying mechanism, water inlet mechanism, liquid box and cylinder in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0022] Figure 6 This is a third structural schematic diagram of the box, water conveying mechanism, water inlet mechanism, liquid box and cylinder in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0023] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the first structure of the washing machine in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0024] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the second structure of the washing machine in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0025] Figure 9 This is a functional principle block diagram of the washing machine in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0026] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures: 11. Housing; 111. Inlet; 112. Outlet; 113. Vent; 12. Water delivery mechanism; 13. Level gauge; 20. Second cylinder; 21. First cylinder; 22. Water inlet mechanism; 23. Liquid box; 24. Casing; 25. Drain valve; 26. Drain pump; 27. Heating mechanism; 28. Temperature sensor. Detailed Implementation

[0027] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of this invention clearer and more explicit, the invention will be further described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings and embodiments. It should be understood that the specific embodiments described herein are merely illustrative of the invention and are not intended to limit the invention.

[0028] Please also refer to Figures 1-9 The present invention provides some embodiments of a water storage device for a washing machine. Figure 9 Solid arrows indicate the direction of water flow, while lines without arrows indicate connections.

[0029] like Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 4 As shown, the water storage device of the washing machine of the present invention includes: The housing 11 is disposed on the side of the first drum 21 of the washing machine. The housing 11 has a water inlet 111 and a water outlet 112. The water inlet 111 is connected to the water inlet mechanism 22 of the washing machine. The water inlet mechanism 22 is connected to the liquid box 23 of the washing machine. The liquid box 23 is connected to the drum of the washing machine. The drum includes the first drum 21. The water conveying mechanism 12 is connected to the water outlet 112 and the liquid box 23 respectively; The water conveying mechanism 12 is configured to deliver water from the tank 11 to the liquid box 23 so that it enters the cylinder; the water inlet mechanism 22 and the water conveying mechanism 12 are electrically connected.

[0030] Specifically, the water storage device, as a component of the washing machine, serves to pre-store and preheat water. When the outdoor temperature is lower than the indoor temperature, the water storage device can pre-store low-temperature water supplied from outside into the cabinet 11 through the water inlet mechanism 22. This allows the low-temperature water to absorb heat from the indoor air, heat generated during washing machine operation, or residual heat after washing machine use, and thus heat up to obtain preheated water. When using the washing machine, the preheated water in the cabinet 11 is transported to the drum through the liquid box 23 via the water delivery mechanism 12, which improves the washing effect and saves energy consumption. Some washing machines are equipped with a heating device to heat the water in the drum, thus improving the washing effect. By pre-storing water and preheating water through the water storage device, the heating time of the heating device can be shortened, achieving rapid heating.

[0031] The housing 11 can be fixed inside the washing machine casing 24. The housing 11 may include a first cover and a second cover, which are connected to each other. The first cover and the second cover are assembled together by means of snap-fit, welding, locking, etc. The housing 11 is located on the side of the first drum 21 inside the washing machine. The side of the first drum 21 includes at least one of the following: upper side, lower side, left side, right side, front side, and rear side. For example, if the washing machine is a drum washing machine, the side can be the upper side, lower side, left side, or right side. The drum includes an inner drum and an outer drum. The outer drum includes a drum structure and a door seal. The outer drum is fixedly installed, and the inner drum rotates relative to the outer drum. The inner drum is driven by a motor. The motor generates heat during rotation. When the motor is running, low-temperature water can be added to the housing 11 through the water inlet mechanism 22. This heat can be conducted to the low-temperature water in the housing 11 through the air or through the drum structure. After the low-temperature water is heated to obtain preheated water, the preheated water can be used for subsequent rinsing and spin-drying processes. In addition, some washing machines have a drying function, and the heat generated during the drying process may also be conducted to the low-temperature water inside the cabinet 11.

[0032] The tank 11 has an inlet 111 and an outlet 112. The water inlet mechanism 22 injects water into the tank 11 through the inlet 111, and the water delivery mechanism 12 outputs water from the tank 11 through the outlet 112. The inlet 111 can be oriented upwards or horizontally, and the outlet 112 can be oriented downwards or horizontally. The water inlet mechanism 22 is connected to the cylinder and injects water into it. Since the water volume in the tank 11 is limited, after all the preheated water in the tank 11 has been delivered to the cylinder, the water inlet mechanism 22 may need to add additional water to the cylinder.

[0033] The washing machine may be equipped with a liquid tray 23, which is used to store liquids, such as detergent, fabric softener, and disinfectant. A water inlet mechanism 22 can communicate with the liquid tray 23 and fill it with water. The liquid tray 23 is connected to the drum body. The water from the water inlet mechanism 22 mixes with the detergent and other liquids in the liquid tray 23 before entering the drum body. The liquid tray 23 can be connected to either the outer drum or the inner drum. A water delivery mechanism 12 can be connected to either the inner or outer drum, or it can be connected to the liquid tray 23. For example, the water delivery mechanism 12 can be connected to the drum structure or to the door seal. When the water delivery mechanism 12 is connected to the liquid tray 23, preheating the water helps to improve the dispersion of the detergent and other liquids, thereby facilitating full contact between the detergent and other liquids and the object to be washed, improving the cleaning effect.

[0034] In a preferred implementation of this invention, such as Figures 1-6 As shown, the side of the box 11 facing the first cylinder 21 is shaped to fit the first cylinder 21.

[0035] Specifically, the first drum 21 is typically cylindrical, and the side of the housing 11 facing the first drum 21 is adapted to the shape of the first drum 21, forming an arc. For example, the cross-section of the housing 11 is a [-shape] or half a [-shape]. The side of the housing 11 adapts to the shape of the first drum 21, which helps to maximize the capacity of the housing 11 and also facilitates the heat transfer from the first drum 21 to the water inside the housing 11. There is a gap between the housing 11 and the first drum 21. During use, the first drum 21 may wobble, and the gap provides space for this wobble.

[0036] In a preferred implementation of this invention, such as Figures 1-3 and Figure 9 As shown, the housing 11 has a vent 113, which is connected to the cylinder or the outside.

[0037] Specifically, the housing 11 has a vent 113, which faces upwards. When water is injected into the housing 11 through the water inlet mechanism 22, air inside the housing 11 is discharged through the vent 113. The vent 113 is connected to the cylinder, so even if excess water is injected into the housing 11 by the water inlet mechanism 22, it will flow into the cylinder. Furthermore, the connection between the vent 113 and the cylinder facilitates heat transfer from the cylinder to the water inside the housing 11. Figure 5 and Figure 7 As shown, the vent 113 connects to the outside of the washing machine.

[0038] In a preferred implementation of this invention, such as Figure 9As shown, the water storage device is equipped with a level gauge 13, which is configured to detect the water level in the tank 11. The level gauge 13 is electrically connected to the water inlet mechanism 22.

[0039] Specifically, the water level in the tank 11 is detected by the level gauge 13. When the water level in the tank 11 is insufficient, water needs to be added to the tank 11 through the water inlet mechanism 22; when the water level in the tank 11 is sufficient, water inlet mechanism 22 needs to be stopped.

[0040] In a preferred implementation of this invention, such as Figure 9 As shown, the water conveying mechanism 12 employs a water pump and / or a water valve.

[0041] Specifically, the water conveying mechanism 12 can be either a water pump or a water valve. The water pump can overcome the gravity of the water inside the tank 11 and transport the water to a higher position. The water valve can utilize the gravity of the water inside the tank 11 to convey water. The choice between a water pump and a water valve can be determined based on the position of the tank 11 relative to the first cylinder 21.

[0042] The water pump can be a water pump with a valve, and the water valve can be a water valve with a valve. When the washing machine is powered off or not used for an extended period, the valve can be opened to drain water from the casing 11. The water pump and water valve with valve can be installed on the front or top side of the washing machine for easy user operation. For example, a knob can be configured to control the opening and closing of the valve. The valve in the water pump with valve can be a filter valve; opening the valve allows the filter in the water pump to be removed. The water pump and water valve can be used together; opening both the water pump and water valve simultaneously enables water delivery from the water delivery mechanism 12.

[0043] Please also refer to Figures 1-9 The present invention also provides a preferred embodiment of a washing machine.

[0044] like Figure 6 , Figure 8 and Figure 9 As shown, the washing machine of this embodiment includes: Casing 24; The cylinder, liquid box 23 and water inlet mechanism 22 are all located inside the housing 24. The cylinder, liquid box 23 and water inlet mechanism 22 are connected in sequence. The cylinder includes a first cylinder 21. The housing 11 is disposed on the side of the first cylinder 21. The housing 11 has a water inlet 111 and a water outlet 112. The water inlet 111 is connected to the water inlet mechanism 22. The water conveying mechanism 12 is connected to the water outlet 112 and the liquid box 23 respectively; The water conveying mechanism 12 is configured to deliver water from the tank 11 to the liquid box 23 so that it enters the cylinder; the water inlet mechanism 22 and the water conveying mechanism 12 are electrically connected.

[0045] Specifically, the washing machine casing 24 is typically cubic in shape, with the drum located in the center. The drum holds liquid and objects to be washed, and can be positioned with the opening facing upwards or forwards. The drum includes a first drum 21, which holds larger objects. It also includes at least one second drum 20, which holds smaller objects. The positions of the first and second drums 21 can be arranged as needed. A water inlet mechanism 22 is typically located near the upper side of the casing 24. This mechanism injects external water into the drum and can be a valve. Since both the drum and the housing 11 require water, the water inlet mechanism 22 can inject water into both separately. Two inlet mechanisms 22 can be used, or a single inlet mechanism 22 can be shared. For example, two valves or a reversing valve can be used. The water inlet mechanism 22 is an electrically controlled mechanism, such as a solenoid valve.

[0046] The tank 11 can pre-store water and preheat water. After external water enters the tank 11, it is pre-stored inside the tank 11, and the pre-stored water can absorb heat from indoor air or the washing machine to form preheated water. The water delivery mechanism 12 can deliver the preheated water in the tank 11 to the drum. The water delivery mechanism 12 is an electrically controlled water delivery mechanism. The water inlet mechanism 22 and the water delivery mechanism 12 are electrically connected, and the two are not activated simultaneously. First, the water inlet mechanism 22 is controlled to inject water into the tank 11, and after a period of time, the water delivery mechanism 12 is controlled to deliver water.

[0047] The washing machine is equipped with a liquid tank 23. The water inlet mechanism 22 is connected to the drum body through the liquid tank 23, and the water delivery mechanism 12 is also connected to the drum body through the liquid tank 23. The water inlet mechanism 22 injects water from an external water source into the liquid tank 23, mixes it with detergent and other liquids, and then enters the drum body. The water delivery mechanism 12 injects water from the casing 11 into the liquid tank 23, mixes it with detergent and other liquids, and then enters the drum body.

[0048] In a preferred implementation of this invention, such as Figure 9 As shown, the washing machine also includes: Heating mechanism 27 is configured to heat the water inside the cylinder; The heating mechanism 27 is electrically connected to the water inlet mechanism 22.

[0049] Specifically, the heating mechanism 27 is an electric heating mechanism that heats the water inside the cylinder. The heating mechanism 27 can be installed at the bottom or side of the cylinder. When the external water source temperature is low, the heating program needs to be activated to heat the water inside the cylinder. The heating mechanism 27 can be installed near the tank 11. After water is added to the tank 11, it facilitates the heat generated by the heating mechanism 27 to be conducted to the water inside the tank 11. The heating mechanism 27 can be installed inside the first cylinder 21 or the second cylinder 20. The heating device uses a heat pump system, a variable frequency motor, a variable frequency heater, etc.

[0050] In a preferred implementation of this invention, such as Figure 9 As shown, the washing machine also includes: Temperature sensor 28 is configured to detect the water temperature inside the cylinder.

[0051] Specifically, a temperature sensor 28 can be configured to detect the water temperature in order to control the opening and closing of the heating mechanism 27. The temperature sensor 28 can be configured inside the first cylinder 21 or inside the second cylinder 20.

[0052] In a preferred implementation of this invention, such as Figures 1-6 As shown, the side of the box 11 facing the first cylinder 21 is shaped to fit the first cylinder 21.

[0053] Specifically, the first cylinder 21 is typically cylindrical, and the side of the housing 11 facing the first cylinder 21 is arc-shaped. The heating mechanism 27 can be located at the corresponding position on the arc. The arrangement of the housing 11 varies depending on the arrangement of the first cylinder 21.

[0054] In a preferred implementation of this invention, such as Figure 5 and Figure 7 As shown, the housing 11 has a vent 113, which is connected to the cylinder or the outside.

[0055] Specifically, the vent 113 is connected to the cylinder via a pipe, and the connection point between the vent 113 and the cylinder is located at a higher position to prevent water inside the cylinder from flowing back into the housing 11. The cylinder has a rated water level, and the connection point between the vent 113 and the cylinder is higher than the rated water level.

[0056] In a preferred implementation of this invention, such as Figure 9 As shown, a level gauge 13 is provided on the tank 11. The level gauge 13 is configured to detect the water level inside the tank 11. The level gauge 13 is electrically connected to the water inlet mechanism 22.

[0057] Specifically, the water level in the tank 11 is detected by the level gauge 13, and the water inlet mechanism 22 is controlled to replenish water to the tank 11 according to the water level in the tank 11.

[0058] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the liquid container 23 includes: A liquid storage chamber is configured to store a liquid selected from at least one of detergents, fabric softeners, and disinfectants; A mixing chamber, connected to the storage chamber, is configured to mix the liquid and the supplied water to form a mixture; The liquid mixing device is connected to the mixing chamber, the first cylinder 21, and the second cylinder 20, respectively. The liquid dispenser is configured to supply a mixture to the first cylinder 21 and the second cylinder 20.

[0059] Specifically, the mixing chamber is provided with a first liquid inlet, which is connected to the water inlet mechanism 22. The mixing chamber is also provided with a second liquid inlet, which is connected to the water delivery mechanism 12. Both the water inlet mechanism 22 and the water delivery mechanism 12 can supply water to the mixing chamber. The storage chamber can supply liquid to the mixing chamber. The liquid and water are transported to the mixing chamber and mixed to obtain a mixture. The mixture is then distributed to the first cylinder 21 or the second cylinder 20 via the dispensing chamber.

[0060] The liquid storage chamber has an inlet for injecting liquid into it. There can be multiple liquid storage chambers; for example, two chambers can be used to store different types of liquids, with the specific type of liquid selected and mixed according to the object to be cleaned. The liquid dispenser can first distribute the mixture from the mixing chamber to the first cylinder 21, and then distribute the mixture from the mixing chamber to the second cylinder 20. The liquid dispenser can also distribute the mixture to both the first cylinder 21 and the second cylinder 20 simultaneously. The liquid storage chamber and the mixing chamber are connected by a pump, which extracts liquid from the liquid storage chamber and delivers it to the mixing chamber. When multiple liquid storage chambers are used, each liquid storage chamber is equipped with a corresponding pump.

[0061] The dispensing unit includes: The reversing valve has its inlet connected to the mixing chamber. The first compartment is connected to the first outlet of the reversing valve; At least one second compartment is connected to the second outlet of the reversing valve; The first partition chamber is connected to the first cylinder 21, and the second partition chamber is connected to the second cylinder 20.

[0062] Specifically, the number of second outlets and the number of second compartments of the reversing valve are the same as the number of second cylinders 20. When two second cylinders 20 are used, two second compartments and two second outlets are configured. The reversing valve can change the connection state of the inlet and outlet, thereby changing the direction of the mixture delivery. The reversing valve can connect only the inlet and the first outlet, or only the inlet and the second outlet. When multiple second outlets are used, the reversing valve can connect only the inlet and one of the multiple second outlets, thereby delivering the mixture to the corresponding second cylinder 20.

[0063] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the water conveying mechanism 12 employs a water pump and / or a water valve.

[0064] Specifically, the water conveying mechanism 12 can be a water pump or a water valve.

[0065] In a preferred implementation of this invention, such as Figure 9 As shown, the water pump is connected to the bottom of the cylinder and is configured to discharge water from the cylinder.

[0066] Specifically, the drum is typically equipped with a drain valve 25 to drain water from the drum, and the drain valve 25 is usually located at the bottom of the drum. To drain as much water as possible from the drum, a drain pump 26 is also provided to draw water from the drum and discharge it. The water pump and drain pump 26 can be two independent pumps, or a single shared pump can be used. For example, the water pump can be a shared pump, connected to the bottom of the drum, and can also draw water from the drum and discharge it. Additionally, two water inlet valves and two drain valves are required. The two water inlet valves are located at opposite ends of the water pump, and the two drain valves are located at opposite ends of the water pump. One water inlet valve is connected to the outlet 112, and the other is connected to the drum. One drain valve is connected to the bottom of the drum, and the other drain valve leads to the outside of the washing machine.

[0067] Based on the washing machine described in any of the above embodiments, the present invention also provides a preferred embodiment of a control method for the washing machine.

[0068] The washing machine control method of this invention includes the following steps: Step S100: Control the water inlet mechanism to inject water into the tank; Step S200: When using the washing machine, control the water supply mechanism to inject water into the drum.

[0069] Specifically, the pre-water storage and pre-heating functions of the washing machine are not necessarily needed in all scenarios. A switch or program can be configured to allow users to activate these functions. In response to the user's preheating command, the water inlet mechanism is controlled to fill the drum. After water is added, the washing machine does not immediately begin washing the items to be washed. After a period of time, the water in the drum forms preheated water, preparing for the next wash cycle. Then, when the washing machine is used, the water delivery mechanism is controlled to fill the drum, and the washing cycle can begin, consistent with the existing washing machine's operating procedure. For example, the water inlet mechanism can be controlled to fill the drum before the target water level is reached.

[0070] The control method also includes the following steps: Step S300: Control the heating mechanism to heat the water inside the cylinder; Step S400: When the cylinder rotates, control the water inlet mechanism to inject water into the tank.

[0071] Specifically, the heating function of a washing machine isn't necessarily needed in all situations. It can be configured with a switch or program to allow users to activate the heating function. Responding to the user's heating command, the heating mechanism heats the water in the drum. Once the water reaches the first target temperature, the drum rotates to begin the washing program. While the drum rotates, the water inlet mechanism can be controlled to add water to the drum for future use, or to add water after the current wash cycle. During the washing program, the heating mechanism can continue heating until the water reaches the second target temperature, at which point heating stops. The first target temperature is lower than the second target temperature. Further heating the water to the second target temperature helps with sterilization and also preheats the water in the drum.

[0072] It should be understood that the application of the present invention is not limited to the examples above. Those skilled in the art can make improvements or modifications based on the above description, and all such improvements and modifications should fall within the protection scope of the appended claims.

Claims

1. A water storage device for a washing machine, characterized in that, include: A housing is disposed on the side of the first drum of the washing machine. The housing has a water inlet and a water outlet. The water inlet is connected to the water inlet mechanism of the washing machine. The water inlet mechanism is connected to the liquid box of the washing machine. The liquid box is connected to the drum of the washing machine. The drum includes the first drum. The water conveying mechanism is connected to the water outlet and the liquid box respectively; The water conveying mechanism is configured to deliver water from the tank to the liquid box so that it can enter the cylinder. The water inlet mechanism and the water delivery mechanism are electrically connected.

2. The water storage device of the washing machine according to claim 1, characterized in that, The enclosure includes a first cover and a second cover, which are connected to each other; and / or The side surface of the first cylinder includes at least one of the following: upper side surface, lower side surface, left side surface, right side surface, front side surface, and rear side surface; and / or The side of the housing facing the first cylindrical body is shaped to fit the first cylindrical body; and / or The housing has a vent, which communicates with the cylinder or the outside; and / or The water storage device is equipped with a level gauge, which is configured to detect the water level inside the tank. The level gauge is electrically connected to the water inlet mechanism.

3. The water storage device of the washing machine according to claim 1, characterized in that, The water delivery mechanism employs a water pump and / or a water valve.

4. A washing machine, comprising: The washing machine comprises a casing, a drum, a liquid tank, and a water inlet mechanism, wherein the drum, the liquid tank, and the water inlet mechanism are all located within the casing, and the drum, the liquid tank, and the water inlet mechanism are sequentially connected. The drum includes a first drum. The washing machine further comprises: A housing is disposed on the side of the first cylinder, the housing having a water inlet and a water outlet, the water inlet being connected to the water inlet mechanism; The water conveying mechanism is connected to the water outlet and the liquid box respectively; The water conveying mechanism is configured to deliver water from the tank to the liquid box so that it can enter the cylinder. The water inlet mechanism and the water delivery mechanism are electrically connected.

5. The washing machine according to claim 4, characterized in that, The washing machine also includes: A heating mechanism is configured to heat the water inside the cylinder; The heating mechanism is electrically connected to the water inlet mechanism.

6. The washing machine according to claim 4, characterized in that, The enclosure includes a first cover and a second cover, which are connected to each other; and / or The side surface of the first cylinder includes at least one of the following: upper side surface, lower side surface, left side surface, right side surface, front side surface, and rear side surface; and / or The side of the housing facing the first cylindrical body is shaped to fit the first cylindrical body; and / or The housing has a vent, which communicates with the cylinder or the outside; and / or The tank is equipped with a level gauge, which is configured to detect the water level inside the tank and is electrically connected to the water inlet mechanism.

7. The washing machine according to claim 4, characterized in that, The cylindrical body further includes: at least one second cylindrical body; The liquid tank includes: A liquid storage chamber is configured to store a liquid selected from at least one of detergents, fabric softeners, and disinfectants; A mixing chamber, connected to the storage chamber, is configured to mix the liquid and the supplied water to form a mixture; The liquid mixing device is connected to the mixing chamber, the first cylinder, and the second cylinder, respectively; The liquid dispenser is configured to supply a mixture to the first cylinder and the second cylinder.

8. The washing machine according to claim 4, characterized in that, The water conveying mechanism employs a water pump and / or a water valve; The water pump is connected to the bottom of the cylinder and is configured to discharge water from the cylinder.

9. A control method for a washing machine as described in any one of claims 4 to 8, characterized in that, Including the following steps: Control the water inlet mechanism to inject water into the tank; When using the washing machine, control the water supply mechanism to inject water into the drum.

10. The control method for a washing machine according to claim 9, characterized in that, When using the washing machine, after the water supply mechanism injects water into the drum, the control method further includes: The heating mechanism is controlled to heat the water inside the cylinder; When the cylinder rotates, the water inlet mechanism is controlled to inject water into the tank.

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