Cleaning machine and control method thereof

Abstract

The invention discloses a cleaning machine and a control method thereof, and relates to the technical field of household appliances, the cleaning machine comprises a washing cavity used for placing tableware and / or kitchen ware, and the bottom of the washing cavity is provided with a water collecting tank; the cooling unit is used for cooling the flowing gas, and water discharged by the cooling unit can flow into the water collecting tank; the washing cavity, the cooling unit and the fan are communicated to form a circulating air duct; an inlet of the first pump is communicated with the water collecting tank or a water inlet port used for being connected with a water source, and an outlet of the first pump can be communicated with the cooling unit. The structure can be simplified and the cost can be reduced on the basis that damp and hot gas formed by hot air drying is not exhausted into a room.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of household appliance technology, and in particular to a cleaning machine and its control method. Background Technology

[0002] After washing tableware and / or kitchenware, the washing machine still leaves a significant amount of water on them, necessitating drying to reduce the possibility of bacterial growth. Currently, washing machines generally employ two drying methods: one involves directly expelling the hot air after drying, and the other uses a condenser-like dehumidifier to dehumidify the air. With the direct expulsion method, the hot, humid air generated during drying is simply condensed before being released into the room, resulting in a large amount of steam at the machine's exhaust vent and condensation on cabinets and floors, causing inconvenience and impacting the user experience. With the condenser-like dehumidifier method, the hot, humid air is absorbed by condensers inside the machine, and the absorbed air can be recycled back into the washing chamber. However, this type of washing machine is relatively complex and expensive. Therefore, a washing machine with a simpler structure and lower cost is needed that can dry tableware and / or kitchenware without expelling the hot, humid air generated during drying into the room. Summary of the Invention

[0003] In order to overcome the above-mentioned defects of the prior art, the technical problem to be solved by the embodiments of the present invention is to provide a cleaning machine and its control method, which can simplify the structure and reduce the cost while ensuring that the hot and humid gas generated by hot air drying is not discharged into the room.

[0004] The specific technical solution of this invention is as follows:

[0005] A cleaning machine, the cleaning machine comprising:

[0006] A washing chamber for placing tableware and / or kitchen utensils, with a water collection tank at the bottom of the washing chamber;

[0007] A cooling unit for cooling the flowing gas, wherein the water discharged from the cooling unit can flow into the water collection tank;

[0008] The fan, the washing chamber, the cooling unit and the fan are connected to form a circulating air duct;

[0009] The first pump has its inlet connected to the water collection tank or a water inlet port for connecting to a water source, and its outlet connected to the cooling unit.

[0010] Preferably, the cleaning machine includes:

[0011] A humidity detection unit for detecting the humidity of the gas flowing into the cooling unit.

[0012] Preferably, the cooling unit is in operation when the humidity of the gas flowing into the cooling unit detected by the humidity detection unit is higher than a first preset value or when the cleaning machine enters the drying mode.

[0013] Preferably, the cooling unit includes a cooling channel and a spray unit for spraying water into the gas flowing through the cooling channel. The washing chamber, the cooling channel, and the fan are connected to form the circulating air duct. The spray unit is used to cool the flowing gas. The water sprayed by the spray unit can be discharged and flow into the water collection tank. The outlet of the first pump can be connected to the spray unit.

[0014] Preferably, the cooling unit includes a cooling channel and a heat exchange unit disposed in the cooling channel; the washing chamber, the cooling channel, and the fan are connected to form the circulating air duct; the heat exchange unit is used to cool the flowing gas; the outlet of the first pump can be connected to the inlet of the heat exchange unit, and the water discharged from the outlet of the heat exchange unit can flow into the water collection tank.

[0015] Preferably, the cooling unit includes a water-containing structure, the washing chamber, the fan, and the water-containing structure are connected to form the circulating air duct, and the gas flowing into the water-containing structure can be introduced into the water in the water-containing structure to exchange heat with the water for cooling, and then the gas is discharged from the water; the outlet of the first pump can be connected to the water-containing structure, and the water discharged from the water-containing structure can flow into the water collection tank.

[0016] Preferably, the cleaning machine includes:

[0017] A water collection unit is used to collect liquid water generated when gas flows through the cooling channel and water sprayed by the spray unit.

[0018] Preferably, the cleaning machine includes:

[0019] A water collection unit is used to collect liquid water generated on the surface of the heat exchange unit when gas flows through the cooling channel and / or water discharged from the outlet of the heat exchange unit.

[0020] Preferably, the cooling channel has a tendency to extend vertically, with the inlet of the cooling channel located at the upper part and the outlet of the cooling channel located at the lower part.

[0021] Preferably, the water collection unit is located below the cooling channel.

[0022] Preferably, the water collection unit is connected to the washing chamber or the water collection tank.

[0023] Preferably, the water collection unit is connected to the washing chamber or the water collection tank through a first flow channel, and a switch valve is provided on the first flow channel.

[0024] Preferably, when the cooling unit includes a spray unit, the water collection tank, the first pump, the spray unit, and the water collection unit can form a water circulation system.

[0025] Preferably, the cleaning machine includes a demisting unit for removing water mist from the gas, the demisting unit being located between the outlet of the cooling channel and the washing chamber.

[0026] Preferably, the demisting unit includes: multiple stacked baffles, with gaps between adjacent baffles to form demisting channels, and the demisting channels are respectively connected to the outlet of the cooling channel and the washing chamber.

[0027] Preferably, the cleaning machine includes:

[0028] A water collection unit is provided, wherein the baffle plate has a tendency to extend in a vertical direction, and the water collection unit is located below the baffle plate to collect droplets formed on the baffle plate.

[0029] Preferably, the demisting unit includes: at least one demisting element with a mesh structure, the mesh structure forming a demisting flow channel, the demisting flow channel being respectively connected to the outlet of the cooling flow channel and the washing chamber;

[0030] or,

[0031] The demisting unit includes: a plurality of staggered columnar members, wherein the columnar members form demisting channels, and the demisting channels are respectively connected to the outlet of the cooling channel and the washing chamber;

[0032] or,

[0033] The demisting unit includes: multiple swirling blades arranged circumferentially, with demisting channels formed between the swirling blades, and the demisting channels being respectively connected to the outlet of the cooling channel and the washing chamber.

[0034] Preferably, the cleaning machine includes:

[0035] A water collection unit is located below the demister, column, or swirl vane to collect droplets formed on the mesh structure, column, or swirl vane.

[0036] Preferably, the cleaning machine includes:

[0037] A heating unit is used to heat and dry the tableware and / or kitchen utensils in the washing chamber.

[0038] Preferably, the heating unit is located on the circulating air duct between the cooling unit and the washing chamber.

[0039] Preferably, the cleaning machine includes:

[0040] A spraying device for spraying the tableware and / or kitchen utensils in the washing chamber;

[0041] The inlet of the spray device can be connected to the outlet of the first pump.

[0042] Preferably, the cleaning machine includes: a pipeline switching unit, wherein the outlet of the first pump is connected to the water inlet of the spray device and the cooling unit respectively through the pipeline switching unit; the pipeline switching unit has a first working state and a second working state; in the first working state, the pipeline switching unit connects the outlet of the first pump to the cooling unit and disconnects the outlet of the first pump from the water inlet of the spray device; in the second working state, the pipeline switching unit disconnects the outlet of the first pump from the cooling unit and connects the outlet of the first pump to the water inlet of the spray device.

[0043] Preferably, the cleaning machine includes a drain line with a second pump, one end of which is connected to the water collection tank.

[0044] Preferably, the cleaning machine includes: a water inlet pipe, one end of which is connected to the inlet of the first pump or the water collection tank, and the other end of which is connected to the water inlet port.

[0045] Preferably, the cleaning machine has an air inlet, an air outlet, and an air duct control unit. The air duct control unit can control the connection and disconnection between the air inlet and the washing chamber, and between the air outlet and the washing chamber. Under the action of the fan, the air flowing in through the air inlet can flow into the washing chamber, and the air in the washing chamber can be discharged from the air outlet.

[0046] Preferably, the air duct control unit has a first position state and a second position state. In the first position state, the air inlet is disconnected from the washing chamber, and the air outlet is disconnected from the washing chamber. In the second position state, the air inlet is connected to the washing chamber through a portion of the circulating air duct, and the air outlet is connected to the washing chamber through a portion of the circulating air duct. The connection between the air inlet and the circulating air duct and the connection between the air outlet and the circulating air duct are disconnected.

[0047] Preferably, the air duct control unit includes: an air duct switching valve installed at an opening in the side wall of the circulating air duct, the air duct switching valve including a switching element rotatable about a rotating shaft, the opening including an air inlet located on one side of the rotating shaft and an air outlet located on the other side of the rotating shaft, the switching element in a first position state closing the opening; the switching element in a second position state cutting off the connection between the air inlet and part of the circulating air duct and the connection between the air outlet and part of the circulating air duct, the opening being open.

[0048] Preferably, the air duct control unit includes a first on / off valve for controlling the connection between the air inlet and the washing chamber and a second on / off valve for controlling the connection between the air outlet and the washing chamber. The inlet of the fan can be connected to the air inlet, the outlet of the fan can be connected to the air outlet, and the fan is located on the line from the air inlet through the washing chamber to the air outlet.

[0049] Preferably, the cleaning machine includes: a heating unit located on the circulating air duct between the cooling unit and the washing chamber; the heating unit is located between the air inlet and the washing chamber so that the air flowing in from the air inlet can pass through the heating unit and then flow into the washing chamber.

[0050] Preferably, the washing machine has a drying mode, which is used to dry the tableware and / or kitchen utensils in the washing chamber;

[0051] The drying mode has a first sub-mode, in which the fan is turned on, the heating unit is turned on, and the first pump is running.

[0052] The drying mode has a second sub-mode, in which the fan is on, the heating unit is on, and the first pump is off.

[0053] Preferably, the cleaning machine includes:

[0054] A control unit, which is electrically connected to the fan and the humidity detection unit;

[0055] The control unit is used to control the speed of the fan based on the humidity of the gas flowing into the cooling unit detected by the humidity detection unit.

[0056] Preferably, when the humidity of the gas flowing into the cooling unit is lower than a second preset value as detected by the humidity detection unit, the fan speed is increased and the cooling unit is turned off.

[0057] Preferably, the cleaning machine includes: a housing with an internal air duct, the housing having an air inlet and an air outlet communicating with the air duct;

[0058] The cooling channel includes at least a portion of the air duct, and the spray unit is mounted on the housing to spray water into the cooling channel.

[0059] Preferably, the cleaning machine includes: a housing with an internal air duct, the housing having an air inlet and an air outlet communicating with the air duct;

[0060] The cooling channel includes at least a portion of the air duct.

[0061] Preferably, a water collection unit is formed at the bottom inside the housing.

[0062] Preferably, the cleaning machine includes: a demisting unit for removing water mist from the gas; the demisting unit is located in a portion of the air duct and downstream of the cooling flow channel.

[0063] Preferably, the housing has a partition extending vertically to form a U-shaped air duct within the housing. The U-shaped air duct includes a first vertical section and a second vertical section. The cooling channel includes at least a portion of the first vertical section. The demisting unit is located in the second vertical section. The air inlet is located at the upper part of the first vertical section, and the air outlet is located at the upper part of the second vertical section. A water collection unit is formed at the bottom of the U-shaped air duct.

[0064] Preferably, the pipeline switching unit includes:

[0065] A valve body having a bottom wall and a side wall, the bottom wall and the side wall forming a receiving cavity, and the side wall or the bottom wall having an inlet, a first outlet and at least one second outlet;

[0066] A water distribution component disposed in the receiving cavity has a bottom wall and a side wall, and the bottom wall or the side wall has a connecting hole and a notch.

[0067] A sealing element that seals the receiving cavity;

[0068] A drive unit is used to rotate the water distribution component so that the inlet is normally open, the connecting hole can be aligned and connected with a second outlet, or the notch can be aligned and connected with the first outlet.

[0069] A control method for a cleaning machine as described above, the control method for the cleaning machine comprising:

[0070] When the washing machine enters the drying mode, it enters the first sub-mode of the drying mode. At this time, the heating unit is turned on to heat and dry the tableware and / or kitchen utensils in the washing chamber. The water inlet valve on the water inlet pipe is controlled to input water into the washing chamber or water collection tank. The pipeline switching unit is controlled to connect the outlet of the first pump with the cooling unit and disconnect the outlet of the first pump from the spray device. The fan and the first pump are turned on.

[0071] Preferably, when the preset conditions are met after the first pump is turned on, the second sub-mode of the drying mode is entered. At this time, the first pump is turned off, and the heating unit and the fan are kept in operation.

[0072] Preferably, the water inlet valve on the water inlet pipe is controlled to input a predetermined amount of water into the washing chamber or water collection tank, the predetermined amount of water being between 0.5L and 5L.

[0073] Preferably, the preset conditions include at least one of the following: reaching a preset time, the humidity value of the gas entering the cooling unit being lower than a second preset value, and the temperature of the water in the water circulation no longer rising; wherein, the water collection tank, the first pump, the cooling unit, and the water collection unit can form the water circulation.

[0074] Preferably, after entering the second sub-mode of the drying mode, the speed of the fan is increased.

[0075] Preferably, the cleaning machine also includes a storage mode, in which external air is allowed to flow into the washing chamber through the air inlet by controlling the air duct control unit and the fan, and the air in the washing chamber is discharged from the air outlet.

[0076] Preferably, in storage mode, the air duct control unit is switched to the second position state. In the second position state, the air inlet is connected to the washing chamber through a portion of the circulating air duct, the air outlet is connected to the washing chamber through a portion of the circulating air duct, and the connection between the air inlet and the circulating air duct and the connection between the air outlet and the circulating air duct is disconnected.

[0077] or,

[0078] In storage mode, the first on / off valve is opened to connect the air inlet to the washing chamber, and the second on / off valve is opened to connect the air outlet to the washing chamber.

[0079] Preferably, the water collection unit is connected to the washing chamber or the water collection tank through a first flow channel, and a switch valve is provided on the first flow channel;

[0080] When the cleaning machine enters the drying mode, it enters the first sub-mode of the drying mode. At this time, the switch valve is turned on.

[0081] Preferably, after the first sub-mode of the drying mode, the switch valve is closed, and the water in the water collection tank is input to the water collection unit for storage by the first pump.

[0082] Preferably, the control method of the cleaning machine further includes:

[0083] After the first sub-mode of the drying mode ends, the second pump on the drain line is turned on to drain the water from the water collection tank.

[0084] After the first sub-mode of the drying mode ends, the second sub-mode of the drying mode begins. When or after the second sub-mode of the drying mode ends, the second pump on the drain line is turned on to drain the water from the water collection tank.

[0085] The technical solution of the present invention has the following significant beneficial effects:

[0086] When the washing machine dries the tableware and / or kitchenware placed in the washing chamber, humid and hot gas is formed inside the washing chamber. This humid gas has a high humidity level. At this time, a fan can be activated to drive the humid and hot gas into the cooling unit. Simultaneously, water can be supplied to the cooling unit via a first pump. The cooling unit cools the humid and hot gas flowing through it. The water vapor in the humid and hot gas condenses into liquid water, which flows together with the water discharged from the cooling unit into a water collection tank. This process removes at least some of the water vapor from the humid and hot gas. Afterward, the relatively dry gas flows back into the washing chamber to remove moisture, thus forming humid and hot gas again. This cycle continues until the tableware and / or kitchenware in the washing chamber are dried. Water from the water collection tank or water supplied from a water source to the washing machine's inlet port is fed into the cooling unit by the first pump to cool the humid and hot gas flowing through it. Through the above process, the tableware and / or kitchen utensils inside the washing chamber can be dried without the hot and humid air generated during hot air drying being discharged into the room, and the entire washing machine has a simple structure. In addition, when the first pump inputs water from the water collection tank to the cooling unit, the water used to cool the hot and humid air flowing through the cooling unit can be recycled. Furthermore, the first pump, which is used to supply water to the spray device, can also be used to supply water to the cooling unit, thus greatly reducing the equipment cost and operating cost of the washing machine.

[0087] Specific embodiments of the invention are disclosed in detail below with reference to the description and accompanying drawings, indicating how the principles of the invention can be employed. It should be understood that the embodiments of the invention are not therefore limited in scope. Features described and / or shown for one embodiment may be used in the same or similar manner in one or more other embodiments, combined with features in other embodiments, or substituted for features in other embodiments. Attached Figure Description

[0088] The accompanying drawings described herein are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention in any way. Furthermore, the shapes and proportions of the components in the drawings are merely illustrative to aid in understanding the invention and do not specifically limit the shapes and proportions of the components. Those skilled in the art, guided by the teachings of this invention, can select various possible shapes and proportions to implement the invention according to specific circumstances.

[0089] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the cleaning machine structure in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0090] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of another feasible implementation of the cleaning machine structure in this invention embodiment;

[0091] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the air duct control unit being shut down in one embodiment of the present invention;

[0092] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the air duct control unit being turned on in one embodiment of the present invention;

[0093] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the air duct control unit in another embodiment of the present invention;

[0094] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the pipeline switching unit in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0095] The reference numerals in the above figures are as follows:

[0096] 1. Washing chamber; 2. Water collection tank; 3. Cooling unit; 31. Cooling channel; 32. Spray unit; 4. Fan; 5. First pump; 6. Humidity detection unit; 7. Water collection unit; 8. First channel; 9. Switch valve; 10. Demisting unit; 101. Baffle plate; 102. Demisting channel; 11. Heating unit; 12. Spray device; 13. Pipeline switching unit; 131. Valve body; 1311. Bottom wall of valve body; 13111. Second outlet; 1312. Side wall of valve body; 13121. Inlet; 13122. First outlet; 132. Water distribution component; 1321. Water distribution component Bottom wall; 13211, connecting hole; 1322, side wall of water distribution component; 13221, notch; 133, sealing component; 134, drive unit; 14, drainage pipeline; 15, second pump; 16, water inlet pipeline; 17, air inlet; 18, air outlet; 19, duct control unit; 191, duct switching valve; 1911, switching component; 1912, rotating shaft; 192, first on / off valve; 193, second on / off valve; 20, housing; 201, duct; 2011, first vertical section; 2012, second vertical section; 202, air inlet; 203, air outlet; 204, partition. Detailed Implementation

[0097] The details of the present invention can be more clearly understood by referring to the accompanying drawings and the description of specific embodiments. However, the specific embodiments of the present invention described herein are for illustrative purposes only and should not be construed as limiting the invention in any way. Under the teachings of this invention, those skilled in the art can conceive of any possible modifications based on the invention, all of which should be considered within the scope of the invention. It should be noted that when an element is referred to as being "set on" another element, it can be directly on the other element or there may be an intervening element. When an element is referred to as being "connected" to another element, it can be directly connected to the other element or there may be an intervening element. The terms "mounted," "connected," and "connected" should be interpreted broadly, for example, they can refer to mechanical or electrical connections, or internal communication between two elements, and can be direct or indirect connections through an intermediate medium. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms according to the specific circumstances. The terms "vertical," "horizontal," "upper," "lower," "left," "right," and similar expressions used herein are for illustrative purposes only and do not represent the only embodiments.

[0098] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this application belongs. The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of the application. The term "and / or" as used herein includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

[0099] In order to simplify the structure and reduce costs, this application proposes a cleaning machine that prevents the hot and humid gases generated during hot air drying from being discharged into the room. Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the cleaning machine structure in an embodiment of the present invention, such as... Figure 1 As shown, the washing machine may include: a washing chamber 1 for placing tableware and / or kitchen utensils, with a water collection tank 2 at the bottom of the washing chamber 1; a cooling unit 3 for cooling the flowing gas, with water discharged from the cooling unit 3 flowing into the water collection tank; a fan 4, with the washing chamber 1, cooling unit 3 and fan 4 connected to form a circulating air duct; and a first pump 5, with the inlet of the first pump 5 connected to the water collection tank 2 or a water inlet port for connecting to a water source, and the outlet of the first pump 5 connected to the cooling unit 3.

[0100] When the washing machine dries the tableware and / or kitchenware placed in the washing chamber 1, humid and hot gas is formed in the washing chamber 1. The humidity of the humid and hot gas is high. At this time, the fan 4 can be activated to drive the humid and hot gas into the cooling unit 3. At the same time, water can be supplied to the cooling unit 3 through the first pump 5. The cooling unit 3 can cool the humid and hot gas flowing through the cooling unit 3. The water vapor in the humid and hot gas will condense into liquid water. The liquid water and the water discharged from the cooling unit 3 can flow together into the water collection tank 2. Through the above process, at least some of the water vapor in the humid and hot gas can be removed. Then, the relatively dry gas will flow back into the washing chamber 1 to remove the moisture in the washing chamber 1 and form humid and hot gas. This cycle continues until the tableware and / or kitchenware in the washing chamber 1 are dried. The water in the water collection tank 2 or the water input port of the washing machine from the water source is input into the cooling unit 3 under the drive of the first pump 5, so that the cooling unit 3 can use it to cool the humid and hot gas flowing through the cooling unit 3. Through the above process, the tableware and / or kitchen utensils in the washing chamber 1 can be dried without the hot and humid air generated by hot air drying being discharged into the room, and the entire washing machine has a simple structure. In addition, when the first pump 5 inputs water from the water collection tank 2 to the cooling unit 3, the water used to cool the hot and humid air flowing through the cooling unit 3 can be recycled. The first pump 5, which is used to supply water to the spray device 12, can also be used to supply water to the cooling unit 3, thus greatly reducing the equipment cost and operating cost of the washing machine.

[0101] To better understand the cleaning machine in this application, it will be further explained and described below. For example... Figure 1 As shown, the washing machine may include: a washing chamber 1, a cooling unit 3, a fan 4, and a first pump 5. The washing chamber 1 is used to hold tableware and / or kitchen utensils for washing and drying. A water collection tank 2 is provided at the bottom of the washing chamber 1 to collect water sprayed onto the tableware and / or kitchen utensils during washing. Additionally, the water collection tank 2 can also collect water discharged from the cooling unit 3, and furthermore, it can collect liquid water condensed from water vapor in the gas when the cooling unit 3 cools the flowing gas.

[0102] Cooling unit 3 is used to cool the flowing gas. For example, it can cool the flowing hot and humid gas, causing the water vapor in the hot and humid gas to condense into liquid water, thereby reducing the moisture content in the gas.

[0103] like Figure 1 As shown, the inlet of the first pump 5 can be connected to the water collection tank 2 and / or the water inlet port for connecting to a water source, and the outlet of the first pump 5 can be connected to the cooling unit 3. The first pump 5 is used to drive the water in the water collection tank 2 and / or the water input through the water inlet port to flow into the cooling unit 3. The cooling unit 3 uses this water to cool the flowing gas. To avoid the water in the cooling unit 3 overheating and reducing the cooling effect, the cooling unit 3 can continuously input and output water, and the discharged water can flow into the water collection tank 2. In this way, the water in the water collection tank 2 can be continuously recycled, thereby achieving the purpose of saving water and greatly reducing the operating cost of the cleaning machine.

[0104] The cooling unit 3 can have many different implementations. In one implementation, such as... Figure 1As shown, the cooling unit 3 may include: a cooling channel 31 and a spray unit 32 that sprays water into the gas flowing through the cooling channel 31 to cool the gas. The spray unit can be configured with different structures such as nozzles, spray pipes, or aperture structures. The water sprayed by the spray unit 32 flows into the water collection tank 2. However, it is sufficient that the water ultimately flows into the water collection tank 2; it does not necessarily flow directly into the water collection tank 2. The water collected in the water collection tank 2 can then be sprayed back into the cooling channel 31 through the first pump 5 and the spray unit 32. The sprayed water then flows back into the water collection tank 2. In this way, this portion of water can be continuously recycled, thereby achieving water conservation and significantly reducing the operating cost of the cleaning machine. The first pump 5 can be used to drive the water in the water collection tank 2 to flow into the spray unit 32 and then spray it out into the cooling channel 31. Alternatively, the first pump 5 can first drive the water input from the water inlet port used to connect to the water source to flow into the spray unit 32 and then spray it out into the cooling channel 31. The sprayed water will then flow into the water collection tank 2. After that, the first pump 5 can drive the water in the water collection tank 2 to flow into the spray unit 32 again.

[0105] The washing chamber 1, cooling channel 31, and fan 4 are connected to form a circulating air duct. Under the action of fan 4, air in the washing chamber 1 flows into the cooling channel 31 and then back into the washing chamber 1, thus circulating. When the gas flowing through the cooling channel 31 is hot and humid gas (i.e., gas with high humidity and temperature), the spray unit 32 sprays water into the gas, thus cooling it down. Due to the high humidity of the gas, some of the water vapor condenses into liquid water. Some of this liquid water flows into the water collection tank 2 along with the water sprayed by the spray unit 32, while the remaining liquid water may be carried downstream by the gas in the form of mist or small droplets. This process removes at least some of the water vapor from the hot and humid gas. Generally, the humidity of the gas after removing at least some of the water vapor is approximately 40% to 60%, while the humidity of the hot and humid gas before entering the cooling channel 31 is generally at least 90%, and often close to 100%. Afterward, the relatively dry gas flows back into the washing chamber 1 to remove the evaporated moisture from the tableware and / or kitchen utensils, thus regenerating humid and hot gas. This cycle continues until the tableware and / or kitchen utensils in the washing chamber 1 are dried. Through the above process, the tableware and / or kitchen utensils in the washing chamber 1 can be dried without the humid and hot gas generated by hot air drying being discharged into the room.

[0106] In another embodiment, the cooling unit 3 may include a cooling channel 31 and a heat exchange unit disposed within the cooling channel 31. The heat exchange unit may be a heat exchanger-like structure. The washing chamber 1, the cooling channel 31, and the fan 4 are connected to form a circulating air duct. The heat exchange unit is used to cool the flowing gas. The outlet of the first pump 5 can be connected to the inlet of the heat exchange unit, and the water discharged from the outlet of the heat exchange unit can flow into the water collection tank 2. The water collection tank, the first pump, the heat exchange unit, and the water collection unit can form a water circulation. The first pump 5 can continuously input relatively low-temperature water into the heat exchange unit, thereby utilizing the heat exchange unit to cool the humid and hot gas flowing through the cooling channel 31. Since the original humidity of the gas is high, some of the water vapor in the humid and hot gas will condense into liquid water on the outer surface of the heat exchange unit, and the liquid water will fall and eventually flow into the water collection tank 2.

[0107] In another embodiment, the cooling unit 3 may include a water-containing structure. The washing chamber 1, the water-containing structure, and the fan 4 are connected to form a circulating air duct. Gas flowing into the water-containing structure can be introduced into the water within the structure for heat exchange and cooling, after which the gas is discharged from the water. The outlet of the first pump 5 can be connected to the water-containing structure to replenish water, such as water at a relatively low temperature. The water discharged from the water-containing structure can flow into the water collection tank 2, thereby discharging water from the water-containing structure. The water collection tank, the first pump, the water-containing structure, and the water collection unit can form a water circulation system. When the gas is hot and humid, the hot and humid gas is introduced into the water within the water-containing structure for heat exchange and cooling, causing the water vapor in the hot and humid gas to condense into liquid water, which is then absorbed by the water in the water-containing structure. The relatively dry gas then flows back into the washing chamber 1. The gas flowing into the water-containing structure is dispersed as much as possible to increase the contact area with the water and further enhance the heat exchange effect. For example, gas can be introduced into the water in the containment structure through a pipe inserted into the water, or through an opening in the wall of the containment structure. Of course, other methods can also be used to introduce gas into the water in the containment structure, and no limitation is made in this application.

[0108] As a feasible option, such as Figure 1 As shown, the cleaning machine includes a spray device 12, which is used to spray and clean tableware and / or kitchen utensils in the washing chamber 1. The water inlet of the spray device 12 can be connected to the outlet of the first pump 5. The entire cleaning machine has a simple structure. It uses the first pump 5, which supplies water to the spray device 12, to supply water to the cooling unit 3, such as the spray unit 32, the heat exchange unit, or the housing structure. In this way, the first pump 5 can achieve two major functions, which greatly reduces the equipment cost of the cleaning machine.

[0109] To control whether the water output from the first pump 5 flows to the cooling unit 3 or the spray device 12 during operation, such as Figure 1 As shown, the cleaning machine may include a pipeline switching unit 13. The outlet of the first pump 5 is connected to the inlet of the spray device 12 and the cooling unit 3 through the pipeline switching unit 13. The pipeline switching unit 13 has a first operating state and a second operating state. In the first operating state, the pipeline switching unit 13 connects the outlet of the first pump 5 to the cooling unit 3 and disconnects the outlet of the first pump 5 from the inlet of the spray device 12. In the second operating state, the pipeline switching unit 13 disconnects the outlet of the first pump 5 from the cooling unit 3 and connects the outlet of the first pump 5 to the inlet of the spray device 12. The pipeline switching unit 13 may use a three-way switching valve or two on / off valves; no specific form of the pipeline switching unit 13 is limited here.

[0110] In one feasible implementation, Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the pipeline switching unit in an embodiment of the present invention, as shown below. Figure 6 As shown, the pipeline switching unit 13 may include: a valve body 131, the valve body 131 having a valve body bottom wall 1311 and a valve body side wall 1312, the valve body bottom wall 1311 and the valve body side wall 1312 forming a receiving cavity, the valve body side wall 1312 or the valve body bottom wall 1311 having a liquid inlet 13121, a first liquid outlet 13122 and at least one second liquid outlet 13111; and a water distribution component 132 disposed in the receiving cavity, the water distribution component 132 having a water distribution component bottom wall 13121. 21 and the side wall 1322 of the water distribution component, the bottom wall 1321 or the side wall 1322 of the water distribution component has a connecting hole 13211 and a notch 13221; a sealing element 133 for sealing the receiving cavity; a driving unit 134 for driving the water distribution component 132 to rotate so that the liquid inlet 13121 is in a normally open state, the connecting hole 13211 can be aligned and connected with a second liquid outlet 13111 or the notch 13221 can be aligned and connected with the first liquid outlet 13122.

[0111] Furthermore, the valve body sidewall 1312 has an inlet 13121 and a first outlet 13122, and the valve body bottom wall 1311 has at least one second outlet 13111. The bottom wall 1321 of the water distributor has a connecting hole 13211, and the sidewall of the water distributor has a notch 13221. The inlet 13121 and the first outlet 13122 are located at different heights on the valve body sidewall 1312, so that the sidewall of the water distributor will never block the inlet 13121 when the water distributor 132 rotates. When there are multiple second outlets 13111, the multiple second outlets 13111 are arranged in a circumferential direction. Depending on the rotation angle of the water distributor 132, the connecting hole 13211 can be connected to one of the second outlets 13111, so that the fluid input from the inlet 13121 flows out from the second outlet 13111. Depending on the rotation angle of the water distribution component 132, the notch 13221 can be connected to the first liquid outlet 13122, allowing the fluid input from the liquid inlet 13121 to flow out from the first liquid outlet 13122. This method allows the pipeline switching unit to direct the input fluid to the corresponding liquid outlet as needed, thus fulfilling the function of flow path switching. For example, the first liquid outlet 13122 can be connected to the cooling unit 3; multiple second liquid outlets 13111 can be connected to different spray devices 12 respectively.

[0112] In order to enable the washing machine to dry the tableware and / or kitchen utensils placed in the washing chamber 1 Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the cleaning machine structure under another feasible implementation method in this invention, as shown below. Figure 2 As shown, the washing machine includes a heating unit 11, which is used to heat and dry the tableware and / or kitchenware in the washing chamber 1. The heating unit 11 can be installed in the washing chamber 1, in the circulating air duct, or in other locations within the washing machine, as long as the heat it generates can enter the washing chamber 1 to dry the tableware and / or kitchenware inside. Preferably, the heating unit 11 can be located in the circulating air duct between the cooling unit 3 and the washing chamber 1. After the cooling unit 3 cools the humid gas to remove at least some of the moisture, the heating unit 11 can heat the relatively dry gas to form relatively dry hot gas. Due to the heating, the humidity of the relatively dry hot gas can be reduced to about 10% to 20%. This relatively dry hot gas then flows into the washing chamber 1, which can better dry the tableware and / or kitchenware.

[0113] When the washing machine dries the tableware and / or kitchen utensils placed in the washing chamber 1, the heating unit 11 is activated, and the fan 4 drives the gas in the washing chamber 1 to circulate through the circulating air duct. When the humidity of the gas flowing into the cooling unit 3 is low, the cooling unit 3 can be in a non-operating state. For example, the spray unit 32 may not spray water into the gas flowing through the cooling channel 31, or it may not supply water to the heat exchange unit, or it may not pass the gas flowing into the cooling unit 3 into the water in the receiving structure, allowing it to flow out directly. In this case, the dehumidification effect is poor. Therefore, as... Figure 2 As shown, the cleaning machine may include a humidity detection unit 6 for detecting the humidity of the gas flowing into the cooling unit 3. The humidity detection unit 6 is generally installed in the circulating air duct between the inlet of the cooling unit 3 and the washing chamber 1. When the humidity of the gas flowing into the cooling unit 3 detected by the humidity detection unit 6 is higher than a first preset value, the cooling unit 3 is in operation, that is, the spray unit 32 sprays water into the gas flowing through the cooling channel 31, or supplies water to the heat exchange unit. The first preset value can be set as needed, and is generally greater than or equal to 85%. Of course, in other feasible embodiments, the cooling unit 3 is in operation when the cleaning machine enters the drying mode. Afterwards, the humidity detection unit 6 can be used to determine whether the cooling unit 3 needs to operate continuously.

[0114] like Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the cleaning machine may include: a water collection unit 7, used to collect liquid water generated when gas flows through the cooling channel 31 and water sprayed by the spray unit 32, or used to collect liquid water generated on the surface of the heat exchange unit and / or water discharged from the outlet of the heat exchange unit when gas flows through the cooling channel 31. The water collected in the water collection unit 7 can flow back into the water collection tank 2. In one feasible embodiment, the water collection unit 7 can be connected to the washing chamber 1, in which case the water collected in the water collection unit 7 first flows into the washing chamber 1, and then the water in the washing chamber 1 flows into the lowest water collection tank 2. In another feasible embodiment, the water collection unit 7 can be connected to the water collection tank 2, in which case the water collected in the water collection unit 7 flows directly into the water collection tank 2. The water collection tank 2, the first pump 5, the cooling unit 3 (spray unit 32, heat exchange unit, or housing structure), and the water collection unit 7 can form a water circulation loop, in which water can be repeatedly recycled.

[0115] Furthermore, such as Figure 2 As shown, the water collection unit 7 can be connected to the washing chamber 1 or the water collection tank 2 through the first flow channel 8. In order to control whether the water in the water collection unit 7 is discharged or whether the collected water is stored in the water collection unit 7, a switch valve 9 can be provided on the first flow channel 8.

[0116] As a feasible option, such as Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the cooling channel 31 tends to extend vertically, with its inlet located at the top and its outlet at the bottom. When the washing machine dries tableware and / or kitchen utensils placed in the washing chamber 1, the humid and hot gas formed in the washing chamber 1 flows in from the top of the cooling channel 31, is sprayed with water by the spray unit 32, or flows out from the bottom of the cooling channel 31 after passing through the heat exchange unit. The water sprayed by the spray unit 32 and the liquid water condensed from the water vapor in the humid and hot gas will also flow downwards under the carrying effect of the downward flow of the gas and its own gravity, thus entering the water collection unit 7 and separating from the gas, thereby improving the separation effect between the gas and the liquid water. Alternatively, the liquid water condensed from the water vapor in the humid and hot gas on the outer surface of the heat exchange unit will also flow downwards under the carrying effect of the downward flow of the gas and its own gravity, thus entering the water collection unit 7 and separating from the gas, thereby improving the separation effect between the gas and the liquid water. In order to facilitate the collection of liquid water generated when the gas flows through the cooling channel 31 and water sprayed by the spray unit 32, the water collection unit 7 can be located below the cooling channel 31.

[0117] As a feasible option, such as Figure 2 As shown, the cleaning machine may include a demisting unit 10 for removing water mist from the gas. The demisting unit 10 is located between the cooling unit 3 (e.g., the outlet of the cooling channel 31, the outlet of the receiving structure) and the washing chamber 1. Since the spraying unit 32 sprays water onto the hot and humid gas flowing through the cooling channel 31 to cool the gas, the water vapor in the hot and humid gas will condense into liquid water. Some of the liquid water can flow into the water collection tank 2 along with the water sprayed by the spraying unit 32. Other liquid water may be carried downstream by the gas in the form of water mist or small droplets. In order to minimize the amount of water mist or small droplets carried by the gas into the washing chamber 1 and affecting the drying effect of the tableware and / or kitchen utensils in the washing chamber 1, the demisting unit 10 is needed to capture and remove the water mist or small droplets from the gas. Alternatively, the water vapor in the hot and humid gas flowing through the heat exchange unit or containment structure in the cooling channel 31 will condense into liquid water. Some of the liquid water will flow into the water collection tank 2 or be directly absorbed by the water in the containment structure. However, some of the liquid water may be carried by the gas as water mist or small droplets and enter the washing chamber 1, affecting the drying effect of tableware and / or kitchen utensils in the washing chamber 1. It is necessary to use the demisting unit 10 to capture and remove the water mist or small droplets and other liquid water in the gas.

[0118] The defogging unit 10 can have a variety of feasible implementations. In one feasible implementation, such as Figure 2As shown, the demisting unit 10 may include multiple stacked baffles 101, with gaps between adjacent baffles 101 to form a demisting channel 102. The two ends of the demisting channel 102 are respectively connected to the outlet of the cooling channel 31 and the washing chamber 1. When gas carrying water mist or small droplets flows through the demisting channel 102, the water mist or small droplets come into contact with the baffles 101 and are adsorbed by them, then turn into large droplets on the baffles 101 and flow downwards. Furthermore, the baffles 101 may be made of metal, which can further enhance the effect of removing water mist or small droplets from the gas. Alternatively, the baffles 101 may have a tendency to extend vertically; in this case, the water collection unit 7 is located below the baffles 101 to simultaneously collect the droplets formed on the baffles 101.

[0119] In another feasible embodiment, the demisting unit 10 may include: at least one demisting element with a mesh structure, the mesh structure forming a demisting channel 102, the two ends of which can be connected to the outlet of the cooling channel 31 and the washing chamber 1, respectively. In yet another feasible embodiment, the demisting unit 10 may include: a plurality of staggered columnar elements, the columnar elements forming a demisting channel 102, the two ends of which can be connected to the outlet of the cooling channel 31 and the washing chamber 1, respectively. In yet another feasible embodiment, the demisting unit 10 includes: a plurality of circumferentially arranged swirl blades, the swirl blades forming a demisting channel 102, the two ends of which can be connected to the outlet of the cooling channel 31 and the washing chamber 1, respectively. All of the above methods can capture water mist or small droplets carried in the gas. The water collection unit 7 can be located below the demisting element, columnar element, or swirl blade to facilitate the collection of droplets formed on the mesh structure, columnar element, or swirl blade.

[0120] In one specific implementation, such as Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the cleaning machine may include: a housing 20 with an internal air duct 201, the housing 20 having an air inlet 202 and an air outlet 203 communicating with the air duct 201. A cooling channel 31 includes at least a portion of the air duct 201. A spray unit 32 is mounted on the housing 20 to spray water into the cooling channel 31; alternatively, a heat exchange unit may be directly disposed in the cooling channel 31. A water collection unit 7 may be directly formed at the bottom inside the housing 20. When the cleaning machine has a demisting unit 10 for removing water mist from the gas, the demisting unit 10 may, as feasible, be located in a portion of the air duct 201 and downstream of the cooling channel 31. When the cooling unit includes a water-containing structure, the water collection unit 7 may be directly formed at the bottom inside the housing 20, and the containing structure may include the water collection unit 7.

[0121] As a feasible option, such as Figure 2As shown, the housing 20 has a partition 204 extending vertically to form a U-shaped air duct 201 within the housing 20. The U-shaped air duct 201 may include a first vertical section 2011 and a second vertical section 2012. The cooling channel 31 includes at least a portion of the first vertical section 2011, and the demisting unit 10 is located in the second vertical section 2012. Alternatively, the air inlet 202 may be located at the upper part of the first vertical section 2011, and the air outlet 203 may be located at the upper part of the second vertical section 2012. A water collection unit 7 is formed at the bottom of the U-shaped air duct 201.

[0122] To drain the water from the water collection tank 2, the water could be water used by the cooling unit 3 to cool the gas flowing through it, or water used by the spray device 12 to wash tableware and / or kitchen utensils, such as... Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the cleaning machine may include a drain line 14 with a second pump 15, one end of which is connected to a water collection tank 2. The second pump 15 can be turned on when it is necessary to drain the water from the water collection tank 2.

[0123] As a feasible option, such as Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the cleaning machine may include: a water inlet pipe 16, one end of which is connected to the inlet of the first pump 5 or the water collection tank 2, and the other end of which is connected to a water source. Water from the water source can be directly input into the inlet of the first pump 5 for use by the cooling unit 3 or the spray device 12, or it can be input into the water collection tank 2. When used by the cooling unit 3 or the spray device 12, the water in the water collection tank 2 can be pumped out by the first pump 5 for use.

[0124] As a feasible option, such as Figure 2 As shown, the washing machine may have an air inlet 17, an air outlet 18, and an air duct control unit 19. The air duct control unit 19 can control the connection and disconnection between the air inlet 17 and the washing chamber 1, and between the air outlet 18 and the washing chamber 1. When the air inlet 17 and the air outlet 18 are connected to the washing chamber 1, under the action of the fan 4, the air flowing in through the air inlet 17 can flow into the washing chamber 1, and the air in the washing chamber 1 can be discharged from the air outlet 18. The air duct control unit 19 may be installed on the circulating air duct or on a branch air duct connected to the circulating air duct.

[0125] In the above structure, the air duct control unit 19 can have a first position state and a second position state. In the first position state, the air inlet 17 is disconnected from the washing chamber 1, and the air outlet 18 is disconnected from the washing chamber 1. At this time, the fan 4 drives the gas in the circulating air duct to circulate. In the second position state, the air inlet 17 is connected to the washing chamber 1 through a portion of the circulating air duct, and the air outlet 18 is connected to the washing chamber 1 through a portion of the circulating air duct. The connection between the air inlet 17 and the circulating air duct and the connection between the air outlet 18 and the circulating air duct are disconnected. At this time, the fan 4 drives the air flowing in through the air inlet 17 to flow into the washing chamber 1 through a portion of the circulating air duct, and the air in the washing chamber 1 is discharged from the air outlet 18 through a portion of the circulating air duct. In this way, the air in the washing chamber 1 can be replaced with the outside air, thereby ensuring that the tableware and / or kitchen utensils in the washing chamber 1 are always in a good quality air environment, avoiding problems such as odor or bacterial growth caused by the lack of air replacement in the washing chamber 1 over a long period of time.

[0126] In one specific implementation method Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the air duct control unit when it is closed in one embodiment of the present invention. Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the duct control unit being activated in one embodiment of the present invention, as shown below. Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, the air duct control unit 19 may include an air duct switching valve 191 installed at an opening in the side wall of the circulating air duct. The air duct switching valve 191 includes a switching element 1911 rotatable about a rotating shaft 1912. The opening includes an air inlet 17 on one side of the rotating shaft 1912 and an air outlet 18 on the other side of the rotating shaft 1912. In a first position, the switching element 1911 closes the opening; in a second position, the switching element 1911 disconnects the connection between the air inlet 17 and a portion of the circulating air duct, and the connection between the air outlet 18 and a portion of the circulating air duct, thus opening the opening. With this structure, only one air duct switching valve 191 is needed to control the connection between the air inlet 17 and the washing chamber 1, and the connection between the air outlet 18 and the washing chamber 1, simplifying the number of components.

[0127] In another specific implementation, Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the air duct control unit in another embodiment of the present invention, as shown below. Figure 5As shown, the air duct control unit 19 may include a first on / off valve 192 for controlling the connection between the air inlet 17 and the washing chamber 1, and a second on / off valve 193 for controlling the connection between the air outlet 18 and the washing chamber 1. The inlet of the fan 4 can communicate with the air inlet 17, and the outlet of the fan 4 can communicate with the air outlet 18. The fan 4 is located on the line from the air inlet 17 through the washing chamber 1 to the air outlet 18. In this embodiment, the connection between the air inlet 17 and the washing chamber 1, and the connection between the air outlet 18 and the washing chamber 1 can be controlled independently.

[0128] In the above-described implementation methods, as a feasible option, such as Figure 2 and Figure 5 As shown, the heating unit 11 can be located on the circulating air duct between the cooling unit 3 and the washing chamber 1. The heating unit 11 is located between the air inlet 17 and the washing chamber 1 so that the air flowing in from the air inlet 17 can pass through the heating unit 11 and then flow into the washing chamber 1. The heating unit 11 can heat the air flowing in from the air inlet 17, and then the dry hot air is introduced into the washing chamber 1 to ensure the quality of the input air.

[0129] The washing machine may have a drying mode, which is used to dry the tableware and / or kitchenware in the washing chamber 1. The drying mode may have a first sub-mode, in which the fan 4 is on, the heating unit 11 is on, and the first pump 5 is running. Generally, when the washing machine has just finished washing the tableware and / or kitchenware and enters the drying mode, because there is still a lot of water remaining on the tableware and / or kitchenware, it usually enters the first sub-mode first. A large amount of hot and humid gas will form in the washing chamber 1, therefore the first pump 5 needs to be running so that the cooling unit 3 can cool the hot and humid gas, thereby removing at least some of the moisture from the hot and humid gas, ultimately accelerating the drying speed of the tableware and / or kitchenware in the washing chamber 1. The drying mode may also have a second sub-mode, in which the fan 4 is on, the heating unit 11 is on, and the first pump 5 is off. When there is little or no water remaining on the tableware and / or kitchen utensils, a large amount of hot and humid gas will no longer form in the washing chamber 1. At this time, the first pump 5 can stop running, and the cooling unit 3 does not need to cool the hot and humid gas flowing through it. Only the fan 4 needs to continue running until the tableware and / or kitchen utensils in the washing chamber 1 are completely dry.

[0130] Alternatively, the cleaning machine may include a control unit electrically connected to the fan 4 and the humidity detection unit 6. The control unit controls the rotational speed of the fan 4 based on the humidity of the gas flowing into the cooling unit 3 detected by the humidity detection unit 6. Furthermore, when the humidity of the gas flowing into the cooling unit 3 detected by the humidity detection unit 6 is lower than a second preset value, the fan 4's rotational speed can be increased, and the cooling unit 3 can be shut down. For example, the cooling unit 3 can be shut down first, and then the fan 4's rotational speed can be increased. In other words, the cleaning machine can transition from a first drying mode sub-mode to a second drying mode sub-mode.

[0131] This application also proposes a control method for a cleaning machine, which can be applied to the aforementioned cleaning machine or other cleaning machines. The control method for the cleaning machine may include the following steps:

[0132] When the washing machine enters the drying mode, it enters the first sub-mode of the drying mode. At this time, the heating unit 11 is turned on to heat and dry the tableware and / or kitchenware in the washing chamber 1. Since the washing machine washes the tableware and / or kitchenware in the washing chamber 1 before entering the drying mode, the outlet of the first pump 5 is connected to the spray device 12. After washing, the sewage in the water collection tank 2 will be completely discharged through the drain pipe 14. Therefore, in the first sub-mode of the drying mode, the second pump 15 is turned off first. It is necessary to control the water inlet valve on the water inlet pipe 16 to input water into the washing chamber 1 or the water collection tank 2 or to supply water to the first pump 5 through the water inlet pipe 16. The control pipe switching unit 13 connects the outlet of the first pump 5 to the cooling unit 3 and disconnects the outlet of the first pump 5 from the spray device 12. The fan 4 and the first pump 5 are turned on, and the heating unit 11 is turned on.

[0133] In this step, the water inlet valve on the water inlet pipe 16 can be controlled to input a predetermined amount of water into the washing chamber 1 or the water collection tank 2. Alternatively, when the cooling unit 3 includes a spray unit 32, the predetermined amount of water can be in the range of 0.5L-5L. Since the water sprayed by the spray unit 32 is recycled, the above-mentioned predetermined amount of water can fully meet the usage requirements of the spray unit 32.

[0134] When the cleaning machine enters the drying mode, it enters the first sub-mode of the drying mode. At this time, the switch valve 9 is turned on. Through the above method, the water collection tank 2, the first pump 5, the cooling unit 3 (spray unit 32, heat exchange unit or housing structure), and the water collection unit 7 form a water circulation system. The water is repeatedly circulated in this water circulation system, thereby achieving the purpose of saving water.

[0135] When the preset conditions are met after the first pump 5 is turned on, the second sub-mode of the drying mode is entered. At this time, the first pump 5 is turned off, and the heating unit 11 and the fan 4 are kept in operation.

[0136] In this step, the preset conditions may include at least one of the following: reaching a preset time, the humidity value of the gas entering the cooling unit 3 being lower than a second preset value, the water temperature in the water circulation no longer rising, etc. The water collection tank 2, the first pump 5, the cooling unit 3 (spray unit 32, heat exchange unit, or containment structure), and the water collection unit 7 can form a water circulation system. When the preset conditions are met after the first pump 5 is turned on, and there is very little or no residual water on the tableware and / or kitchen utensils, a large amount of hot and humid gas will no longer form in the washing chamber 1. At this time, the first pump 5 can stop operating, and the cooling unit 3 does not need to cool the flowing hot and humid gas. Only the fan 4 and the heating unit 11 need to continue operating until the tableware and / or kitchen utensils in the washing chamber 1 are completely dry.

[0137] As a feasible option, after entering the second sub-mode of the drying mode, the speed of the fan 4 can be increased, thereby increasing the airflow in the circulating air duct, so as to further improve the drying speed of tableware and / or kitchen utensils in the washing chamber 1.

[0138] In one feasible implementation, after the first sub-mode of the drying mode ends, the second pump on the drain line can be activated to drain the water in the water collection tank. This step can be performed after the first sub-mode of the drying mode ends and before the second sub-mode of the drying mode begins, thereby draining the water from the cooling unit 3, ensuring that the entire washing chamber 1 remains dry after the second sub-mode of the drying mode, and preventing the water in the water collection tank 2 from affecting the dried tableware and / or kitchenware in the washing chamber 1. After the first sub-mode of the drying mode ends, the second sub-mode of the drying mode begins. The second pump on the drain line is activated again to drain the water in the water collection tank at or after the end of the second sub-mode of the drying mode. At this time, the drained water is a small amount of water formed in the water collection tank during the drying process of the tableware and / or kitchenware in the washing chamber 1.

[0139] In another feasible implementation, after the first sub-mode of the drying mode, the switch valve 9 can be closed, and the water in the water collection tank 2 can be input into the water collection unit 7 for storage via the first pump 5. This ensures that there is no water in the water collection tank 2, and the entire washing chamber 1 remains dry after the second sub-mode of the drying mode. The water stored in the water collection unit 7 can be released back into the water collection tank 2 by opening the switch valve 9 when the washer machine washes dishes and / or kitchenware again, allowing this water to be reused for pre-washing of dishes and / or kitchenware, thereby achieving water conservation.

[0140] Alternatively, the washing machine may include a storage mode. In storage mode, by controlling the air duct control unit 19 and the fan 4, external air flows into the washing chamber 1 through the air inlet 17, and the air in the washing chamber 1 is discharged from the air outlet 18. The washing machine can execute the storage mode after completing the drying mode. The execution of the storage mode can be spaced a certain amount of time apart from the completion of the drying mode, and then the storage mode can be executed again at regular intervals. Alternatively, the storage mode can be executed at a preset time point after the drying mode is completed.

[0141] In storage mode, in one implementation, the air duct control unit 19 can be switched to a second position. In the second position, the air inlet 17 is connected to the washing chamber 1 through a portion of the circulating air duct, and the air outlet 18 is also connected to the washing chamber 1 through a portion of the circulating air duct. The connection between the air inlet 17 and the circulating air duct, and the connection between the air outlet 18 and the circulating air duct, are disconnected. In storage mode, in another implementation, the first on / off valve 192 is opened to connect the air inlet 17 to the washing chamber 1, and the second on / off valve 193 is opened to connect the air outlet 18 to the washing chamber 1.

[0142] All articles and references disclosed herein, including patent applications and publications, are incorporated herein by reference for various purposes. The term “substantially constitutes…” used to describe a combination should include the identified element, component, part, or step, as well as other elements, components, parts, or steps that do not substantially affect the essential novelty of the combination. The use of the terms “comprising” or “including” to describe combinations of elements, components, parts, or steps herein also contemplates embodiments substantially constituted by such elements, components, parts, or steps. The use of the term “may” herein is intended to indicate that any described attribute “may” include is optional. Multiple elements, components, parts, or steps can be provided by a single integrated element, component, part, or step. Alternatively, a single integrated element, component, part, or step can be divided into multiple separate elements, components, parts, or steps. The disclosure of “a” or “an” used to describe an element, component, part, or step does not imply exclusion of other elements, components, parts, or steps.

[0143] The various embodiments in this specification are described in a progressive manner, with each embodiment focusing on its differences from other embodiments. Similar or identical parts between embodiments can be referred to interchangeably. The above embodiments are only for illustrating the technical concept and features of the present invention, and are intended to enable those skilled in the art to understand the content of the present invention and implement it accordingly. They should not be construed as limiting the scope of protection of the present invention. All equivalent changes or modifications made according to the spirit and essence of the present invention should be covered within the scope of protection of the present invention.

Claims

1. A cleaning machine, characterized in that, The cleaning machine includes: A washing chamber for placing tableware and / or kitchen utensils, with a water collection tank at the bottom of the washing chamber; A cooling unit for cooling the flowing gas, wherein the water discharged from the cooling unit can flow into the water collection tank; The fan, the washing chamber, the cooling unit and the fan are connected to form a circulating air duct; The first pump has its inlet connected to the water collection tank or a water inlet port for connecting to a water source, and its outlet connected to the cooling unit.

2. The cleaning machine according to claim 1, characterized in that, The cleaning machine includes: A humidity detection unit for detecting the humidity of the gas flowing into the cooling unit.

3. The cleaning machine according to claim 2, characterized in that, The cooling unit is in operation when the humidity of the gas flowing into the cooling unit is higher than a first preset value or when the cleaning machine enters the drying mode.

4. The cleaning machine according to claim 1, characterized in that, The cooling unit includes a cooling channel and a spray unit that sprays water into the gas flowing through the cooling channel. The washing chamber, the cooling channel, and the fan are connected to form the circulating air duct. The spray unit is used to cool the gas flowing through it. The water sprayed by the spray unit can be discharged and flow into the water collection tank. The outlet of the first pump can be connected to the spray unit.

5. The cleaning machine according to claim 1, characterized in that, The cooling unit includes a cooling channel and a heat exchange unit disposed in the cooling channel. The washing chamber, the cooling channel, and the fan are connected to form the circulating air duct. The heat exchange unit is used to cool the flowing gas. The outlet of the first pump can be connected to the inlet of the heat exchange unit, and the water discharged from the outlet of the heat exchange unit can flow into the water collection tank.

6. The cleaning machine according to claim 1, characterized in that, The cooling unit includes a water-containing structure. The washing chamber, the fan, and the water-containing structure are connected to form the circulating air duct. Gas flowing into the water-containing structure can be introduced into the water in the water-containing structure to exchange heat and cool down. After that, the gas is discharged from the water. The outlet of the first pump can be connected to the water-containing structure, and the water discharged from the water-containing structure can flow into the water collection tank.

7. The cleaning machine according to claim 4, characterized in that, The cleaning machine includes: A water collection unit is used to collect liquid water generated when gas flows through the cooling channel and water sprayed by the spray unit.

8. The cleaning machine according to claim 5, characterized in that, The cleaning machine includes: A water collection unit is used to collect liquid water generated on the surface of the heat exchange unit when gas flows through the cooling channel and / or water discharged from the outlet of the heat exchange unit.

9. The cleaning machine according to claim 7 or 8, characterized in that, The cooling channel tends to extend vertically, with the inlet of the cooling channel located at the top and the outlet of the cooling channel located at the bottom.

10. The cleaning machine according to claim 9, characterized in that, The water collection unit is located below the cooling channel.

11. The cleaning machine according to claim 7 or 8, characterized in that, The water collection unit can be connected to the washing chamber or the water collection tank.

12. The cleaning machine according to claim 11, characterized in that, The water collection unit is connected to the washing chamber or the water collection tank through a first flow channel, and a switch valve is provided on the first flow channel.

13. The cleaning machine according to claim 11, characterized in that, When the cooling unit includes a spray unit, the water collection tank, the first pump, the spray unit, and the water collection unit can form a water circulation system.

14. The cleaning machine according to claim 4 or 5, characterized in that, The cleaning machine includes a demisting unit for removing water mist from the gas, the demisting unit being located between the outlet of the cooling channel and the washing chamber.

15. The cleaning machine according to claim 14, characterized in that, The demisting unit includes: multiple stacked baffles, with gaps between adjacent baffles to form demisting channels, and the demisting channels are respectively connected to the outlet of the cooling channel and the washing chamber.

16. The cleaning machine according to claim 15, characterized in that, The cleaning machine includes: A water collection unit is provided, wherein the baffle plate has a tendency to extend in a vertical direction, and the water collection unit is located below the baffle plate to collect droplets formed on the baffle plate.

17. The cleaning machine according to claim 14, characterized in that, The demisting unit includes: at least one demisting element with a mesh structure, the mesh structure forming a demisting flow channel, the demisting flow channel being respectively connected to the outlet of the cooling flow channel and the washing chamber; or, The demisting unit includes: a plurality of staggered columnar members, wherein the columnar members form demisting channels, and the demisting channels are respectively connected to the outlet of the cooling channel and the washing chamber; or, The demisting unit includes: multiple swirling blades arranged circumferentially, with demisting channels formed between the swirling blades, and the demisting channels being respectively connected to the outlet of the cooling channel and the washing chamber.

18. The cleaning machine according to claim 17, characterized in that, The cleaning machine includes: A water collection unit is located below the demister, columnar member, or swirl vane to collect droplets formed on the mesh structure, columnar member, or swirl vane.

19. The cleaning machine according to claim 1, characterized in that, The cleaning machine includes: A heating unit is used to heat and dry the tableware and / or kitchen utensils in the washing chamber.

20. The cleaning machine according to claim 19, characterized in that, The heating unit is located on the circulating air duct between the cooling unit and the washing chamber.

21. The cleaning machine according to claim 1, characterized in that, The cleaning machine includes: A spraying device for spraying the tableware and / or kitchen utensils in the washing chamber; The inlet of the spray device can be connected to the outlet of the first pump.

22. The cleaning machine according to claim 21, characterized in that, The cleaning machine includes: a pipeline switching unit, wherein the outlet of the first pump is connected to the water inlet of the spray device and the cooling unit respectively through the pipeline switching unit; the pipeline switching unit has a first working state and a second working state; in the first working state, the pipeline switching unit connects the outlet of the first pump to the cooling unit and disconnects the outlet of the first pump from the water inlet of the spray device; in the second working state, the pipeline switching unit disconnects the outlet of the first pump from the cooling unit and connects the outlet of the first pump to the water inlet of the spray device.

23. The cleaning machine according to claim 1, characterized in that, The cleaning machine includes a drain line with a second pump, one end of which is connected to the water collection tank.

24. The cleaning machine according to claim 1, characterized in that, The cleaning machine includes: a water inlet pipe, one end of which is connected to the inlet of the first pump or the water collection tank, and the other end of which is connected to the water inlet port.

25. The cleaning machine according to claim 1, characterized in that, The cleaning machine has an air inlet, an air outlet, and an air duct control unit. The air duct control unit can control the connection and disconnection between the air inlet and the washing chamber, and between the air outlet and the washing chamber. Under the action of the fan, the air flowing in through the air inlet can flow into the washing chamber, and the air in the washing chamber can be discharged from the air outlet.

26. The cleaning machine according to claim 25, characterized in that, The air duct control unit has a first position state and a second position state. In the first position state, the air inlet is disconnected from the washing chamber, and the air outlet is disconnected from the washing chamber. In the second position state, the air inlet is connected to the washing chamber through a portion of the circulating air duct, the air outlet is connected to the washing chamber through a portion of the circulating air duct, and the connection between the air inlet and the circulating air duct and the connection between the air outlet and the circulating air duct are disconnected.

27. The cleaning machine according to claim 26, characterized in that, The air duct control unit includes: an air duct switching valve installed at an opening in the side wall of the circulating air duct; the air duct switching valve includes a switching element rotatable about a rotating shaft; the opening includes an air inlet located on one side of the rotating shaft and an air outlet located on the other side of the rotating shaft; in a first position state, the switching element closes the opening; in a second position state, the switching element disconnects the connection between the air inlet and a portion of the circulating air duct and the connection between the air outlet and a portion of the circulating air duct, and the opening is open.

28. The cleaning machine according to claim 25, characterized in that, The air duct control unit includes a first on / off valve for controlling the connection between the air inlet and the washing chamber and a second on / off valve for controlling the connection between the air outlet and the washing chamber. The inlet of the fan can be connected to the air inlet, and the outlet of the fan can be connected to the air outlet. The fan is located on the line from the air inlet through the washing chamber to the air outlet.

29. The cleaning machine according to any one of claims 25 to 28, characterized in that, The cleaning machine includes: a heating unit located on the circulating air duct between the cooling unit and the washing chamber; the heating unit is located between the air inlet and the washing chamber so that the air flowing in from the air inlet can pass through the heating unit and then flow into the washing chamber.

30. The cleaning machine according to claim 19, characterized in that, The washing machine has a drying mode, which is used to dry the tableware and / or kitchen utensils in the washing chamber; The drying mode has a first sub-mode, in which the fan is turned on, the heating unit is turned on, and the first pump is running. The drying mode has a second sub-mode, in which the fan is on, the heating unit is on, and the first pump is off.

31. The cleaning machine according to claim 2, characterized in that, The cleaning machine includes: A control unit, which is electrically connected to the fan and the humidity detection unit; The control unit is used to control the speed of the fan based on the humidity of the gas flowing into the cooling unit detected by the humidity detection unit.

32. The cleaning machine according to claim 31, characterized in that, When the humidity detection unit detects that the humidity of the gas flowing into the cooling unit is lower than a second preset value, it controls the fan speed to increase and shuts down the cooling unit.

33. The cleaning machine according to claim 4, characterized in that, The cleaning machine includes: a housing with an internal air duct, the housing having an air inlet and an air outlet communicating with the air duct; The cooling channel includes at least a portion of the air duct, and the spray unit is mounted on the housing to spray water into the cooling channel.

34. The cleaning machine according to claim 5, characterized in that, The cleaning machine includes: a housing with an internal air duct, the housing having an air inlet and an air outlet communicating with the air duct; The cooling channel includes at least a portion of the air duct.

35. The cleaning machine according to claim 33 or 34, characterized in that, A water collection unit is formed at the bottom inside the shell.

36. The cleaning machine according to claim 33 or 34, characterized in that, The cleaning machine includes a demisting unit for removing water mist from the gas; the demisting unit is located in a portion of the air duct and downstream of the cooling channel.

37. The cleaning machine according to claim 36, characterized in that, The housing has a partition extending vertically to form a U-shaped air duct within the housing. The U-shaped air duct includes a first vertical section and a second vertical section. The cooling channel includes at least a portion of the first vertical section. The demisting unit is located in the second vertical section. The air inlet is located at the upper part of the first vertical section, and the air outlet is located at the upper part of the second vertical section. A water collection unit is formed at the bottom of the U-shaped air duct.

38. The cleaning machine according to claim 22, characterized in that, The pipeline switching unit includes: A valve body having a bottom wall and a side wall, the bottom wall and the side wall forming a receiving cavity, and the side wall or the bottom wall having an inlet, a first outlet and at least one second outlet; A water distribution component disposed in the receiving cavity has a bottom wall and a side wall, and the bottom wall or the side wall has a connecting hole and a notch. A sealing element that seals the receiving cavity; A drive unit is used to rotate the water distribution component so that the inlet is normally open, the connecting hole can be aligned and connected with a second outlet, or the notch can be aligned and connected with the first outlet.

39. A control method for a cleaning machine as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The control method for the cleaning machine includes: When the washing machine enters the drying mode, it enters the first sub-mode of the drying mode. At this time, the heating unit is turned on to heat and dry the tableware and / or kitchen utensils in the washing chamber. The water inlet valve on the water inlet pipe is controlled to input water into the washing chamber or water collection tank. The pipeline switching unit is controlled to connect the outlet of the first pump with the cooling unit and disconnect the outlet of the first pump from the spray device. The fan and the first pump are turned on.

40. The control method for the cleaning machine according to claim 39, characterized in that, When the preset conditions are met after the first pump is turned on, the second sub-mode of the drying mode is entered. At this time, the first pump is turned off, and the heating unit and the fan are kept in operation.

41. The control method for the cleaning machine according to claim 39, characterized in that, Control the inlet valve on the inlet pipe to input a predetermined amount of water into the washing chamber or water collection tank, the predetermined amount of water being between 0.5L and 5L.

42. The control method for the cleaning machine according to claim 40, characterized in that, The preset conditions include at least one of the following: reaching a preset time, the humidity value of the gas entering the cooling unit being lower than a second preset value, and the temperature of the water in the water circulation no longer rising; wherein, the water collection tank, the first pump, the cooling unit, and the water collection unit can form the water circulation.

43. The control method for the cleaning machine according to claim 39, characterized in that, After entering the second sub-mode of the drying mode, the speed of the fan is increased.

44. The control method for a cleaning machine according to claim 39, characterized in that, The cleaning machine also includes a storage mode. In storage mode, the air duct control unit and the fan are controlled to allow external air to flow into the washing chamber through the air inlet and allow the air in the washing chamber to be discharged from the air outlet.

45. The control method for the cleaning machine according to claim 44, characterized in that, In storage mode, the air duct control unit is switched to the second position. In the second position, the air inlet is connected to the washing chamber through a portion of the circulating air duct, the air outlet is connected to the washing chamber through a portion of the circulating air duct, and the connection between the air inlet and the circulating air duct and the connection between the air outlet and the circulating air duct are disconnected. or, In storage mode, the first on / off valve is opened to connect the air inlet to the washing chamber, and the second on / off valve is opened to connect the air outlet to the washing chamber.

46. ​​The control method for the cleaning machine according to claim 39, characterized in that, The water collection unit is connected to the washing chamber or the water collection tank through a first flow channel, and a switch valve is provided on the first flow channel. When the cleaning machine enters the drying mode, it enters the first sub-mode of the drying mode. At this time, the switch valve is turned on.

47. The control method for the cleaning machine according to claim 46, characterized in that, After the first sub-mode of the drying mode, the switch valve is closed, and the water in the water collection tank is input to the water collection unit for storage via the first pump.

48. The control method for the cleaning machine according to claim 39, characterized in that, The control method for the cleaning machine also includes: After the first sub-mode of the drying mode ends, the second pump on the drain line is turned on to drain the water from the water collection tank. After the first sub-mode of the drying mode ends, the second sub-mode of the drying mode begins. When or after the second sub-mode of the drying mode ends, the second pump on the drain line is turned on to drain the water from the water collection tank.

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