Automatic door opening mechanism of dishwasher and dishwasher

Abstract

This invention belongs to the field of electrical technology, specifically disclosing an automatic door opening device for a dishwasher and the dishwasher itself. The automatic door opening device includes a housing, an elastic energy storage component, and a pushing component. The elastic energy storage component can store or release potential energy; the pushing component is movably disposed within the housing along a first direction and can switch between a pushing state and a reset state. One end of the elastic energy storage component is connected to the inner wall of the housing, and the other end is connected to the pushing component. The pushing component can lock or unlock with the housing. In the reset state, the pushing component and the housing are locked, causing the elastic energy storage component to be in a compressed energy storage state, accumulating potential energy to push the pushing component to the pushing state. When the pushing component and the housing are unlocked, the elastic energy storage component releases its potential energy. This invention results in low energy consumption for automatic door opening and allows the user to close the door at any time.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of electrical technology, and in particular to an automatic door opening device for a dishwasher and the dishwasher itself. Background Technology

[0002] Dishwashers automatically clean dishes, improving users' quality of life, and are therefore increasingly common in homes. A dishwasher typically consists of an inner tub and a door, which opens and closes the tub. When the door is open, users can load and unload dishes; when the dishwasher is running, the door needs to be closed. To enable automatic door opening, dishwashers are generally equipped with an automatic door opening mechanism.

[0003] In the existing technology, many automatic door opening devices include a drive motor and a transmission structure. The drive motor drives the transmission structure to move, and the transmission structure drives the door to open. During the opening process, the drive motor is powered throughout the process, resulting in high energy consumption and relatively high operating costs for users.

[0004] Another type of automatic door opening device includes a housing, inside which is installed a wax motor. The output end of the wax motor's push rod is connected to an ejector rod. When the wax motor is activated, it can drive the ejector rod to extend or retract relative to the housing. The output end of the ejector rod drives the door to move, so that the door opens or closes.

[0005] However, due to the long retraction time of the wax motor push rod, which typically requires 5-7 minutes of cooling time for it to fully retract, the dishwasher door cannot be closed by the user for 5-7 minutes after it automatically opens, severely impacting the user experience. Summary of the Invention

[0006] One of the technical problems solved by this invention is to provide an automatic door opening device for a dishwasher that can meet the user's need to close the dishwasher door at any time and improve the user experience.

[0007] The second technical problem solved by this invention is to provide a dishwasher that can meet the user's need to close the dishwasher door at any time, thereby improving the user experience.

[0008] The first technical problem mentioned above is solved by the following technical solution:

[0009] The dishwasher's automatic door opening mechanism includes:

[0010] case;

[0011] Elastic energy storage components are capable of storing or releasing potential energy;

[0012] A pusher is movably disposed within the housing along a first direction and can switch between a push state and a reset state. One end of the elastic energy storage member is connected to the inner wall of the housing, and the other end is connected to the pusher. The pusher can be locked or unlocked from the housing.

[0013] In the reset state, the pusher and the housing are locked so that the elastic energy storage member is in a compressed energy storage state, and the elastic energy storage member accumulates potential energy to push the pusher to the pushing state; when the pusher and the housing are unlocked, the elastic energy storage member releases the potential energy.

[0014] The automatic door opening device for the dishwasher described in this invention has the following advantages compared to the prior art:

[0015] When the automatic door opening device of this dishwasher is applied to the door of the dishwasher, the automatic door opening device is set along the opening and closing direction of the door. The output end of the pusher of the automatic door opening device is connected to the door, and the automatic door opening device of the dishwasher realizes the automatic opening of the door.

[0016] When the door is closed, the automatic door opening mechanism of the dishwasher is in a reset state, locked to the housing, and the elastic energy storage element stores potential energy to push the pusher to the pushing state. When it is necessary to switch the door from the closed to the open state, the pusher is unlocked from the housing. At this time, the elastic energy storage element releases its stored potential energy, which pushes the pusher to the pushing state. The pusher then moves forward in the first direction, and the output end of the pusher in the pushing state pushes the dishwasher door to open automatically.

[0017] When the dishwasher door needs to be switched from the open to the closed position, the user pushes the door in the closing direction. The door pushes the pusher in the opposite direction, switching the pusher from the pushing state to the reset state, thus switching the door from the open state to the closed state. Simultaneously, when the pusher switches from the pushing state to the reset state, it re-locks with the housing, and the elastic energy storage element is compressed and stores potential energy again, ready for the next door opening action.

[0018] Compared to existing technologies that use a drive motor and transmission structure to automatically open the door, this application uses an elastic energy storage component that stores potential energy to release potential energy to achieve automatic door opening. That is, during the door opening process, there is no need for a drive motor to directly connect to the door to drive the door to open. It is only necessary to switch the push component to the unlocked state, and use the elastic energy storage component to release potential energy and push the push component to move, so as to open the door. Compared with the method of using a drive motor directly connected to the door to drive the door to open, it is more energy-efficient and the operating cost is also reduced.

[0019] Compared to existing technologies that use wax motors to open doors, this application utilizes the potential energy stored in an elastic energy storage component when the pusher is in its reset state. When the user wants to open the door, the elastic energy storage component simply releases its potential energy. When the user wants to close the door, they simply push it in the closing direction. During the closing process, the elastic energy storage component re-accumulates potential energy, and it requires no cooling time, allowing the user to close the door at any time.

[0020] In one embodiment, the automatic door opening device of the dishwasher further includes a locking mechanism, the locking mechanism including a locking member, the locking member being movably disposed within the housing along a second direction to lock and connect with the push member to restrict the movement of the push member or to disengage from the push member, the second direction being set at an angle to the first direction.

[0021] In one embodiment, the automatic door opening device of the dishwasher further includes an unlocking mechanism disposed on the push member. The unlocking mechanism includes an unlocking component that is movably disposed on the push member and is capable of moving to contact the locking member, and pushing the locking member to move in a direction away from the push member so that the push member and the inner wall of the housing are unlocked.

[0022] In one embodiment, the unlocking component includes:

[0023] A sliding member is movably disposed on the pushing member along the first direction;

[0024] A rotating member is selectively rotatably disposed on the sliding member. When the sliding member moves forward along the first direction, the rotating member can move to contact the locking member and push the locking member to move in a direction away from the pushing member. When the sliding member moves in the opposite direction along the first direction, the rotating member can rotate relative to the sliding member to avoid the locking member.

[0025] In one embodiment, the locking member is provided with a first mating surface, and the rotating member is provided with a second mating surface. The second mating surface can move to contact the first mating surface and push the locking member to move in the direction of disengaging from the pushing member.

[0026] In one embodiment, the locking member is provided with a third mating surface, and the pushing member is provided with a locking hole that locks with the locking member. The third mating surface can move to contact the inner wall surface of the locking hole, and the inner wall surface of the locking hole can push the locking member to move in a direction away from the locking hole.

[0027] In one embodiment, the locking mechanism further includes a locking member reset member disposed within the housing. One end of the locking member reset member is elastically connected to the inner wall of the housing, and the other end is elastically connected to the locking member. When the locking member moves in a direction away from the pushing member, the locking member reset member is compressed.

[0028] In one embodiment, the unlocking component further includes a torsion elastic element disposed on the slider and elastically connected to the rotating element;

[0029] When the slider moves in the first direction, the elastic force of the torsional elastic element is greater than the force exerted by the locking element on the rotating element.

[0030] When the slider moves in the opposite direction along the first direction, the locking member is locked to the pushing member, the locking member reset member is in a released state and the elastic force of the locking member reset member is greater than the elastic force of the torsional elastic member, so that the rotating member rotates relative to the slider to avoid the locking member.

[0031] In one embodiment, the unlocking mechanism further includes an unlocking drive, which is disposed on the pusher and its output end is connected to the unlocking component.

[0032] In one embodiment, the unlocking actuator is a wax motor.

[0033] In one embodiment, the housing is provided with a buckle that can engage with the locking member. When the locking member is locked to the push member, the locking member engages with the buckle.

[0034] In one embodiment, the inner wall of the housing is provided with a first elastic energy storage element mounting structure, and one end of the elastic energy storage element is connected to the first elastic energy storage element mounting structure; and / or

[0035] The pusher is provided with a second elastic energy storage component mounting structure, and the other end of the elastic energy storage component is connected to the second elastic energy storage component mounting structure.

[0036] In one embodiment, one of the pusher and the inner wall of the housing is provided with a first guide groove, and the other is provided with a first guide rail that slides in cooperation with the first guide groove.

[0037] In one embodiment, the pusher includes:

[0038] The pushing component body is movably disposed within the housing along the first direction;

[0039] The drive rod has one end connected to the pusher body and the other end extending out of the housing.

[0040] The second technical problem mentioned above is solved by the following technical solution:

[0041] A dishwasher includes a door body, and an automatic door opening device for the dishwasher is provided in the opening and closing direction of the door body. The output end of the pusher of the automatic door opening device is connected to the door body.

[0042] The dishwasher described in this invention has the following advantages compared with the prior art:

[0043] The dishwasher door is opened or closed via the aforementioned automatic door opening device.

[0044] When the door is closed, the automatic door opening mechanism of the dishwasher is in a reset state, locked to the housing, and the elastic energy storage element stores potential energy to push the pusher to the pushing state. When it is necessary to switch the door from the closed to the open state, the pusher is unlocked from the housing. At this time, the elastic energy storage element releases its stored potential energy, which pushes the pusher to the pushing state. The pusher then moves forward in the first direction, and the output end of the pusher in the pushing state pushes the dishwasher door to open automatically.

[0045] When the dishwasher door needs to be switched from the open to the closed position, the user pushes the door in the closing direction. The door pushes the pusher in the opposite direction, switching the pusher from the pushing state to the reset state, thus switching the door from the open state to the closed state. Simultaneously, when the pusher switches from the pushing state to the reset state, it re-locks with the housing, and the elastic energy storage element is compressed and stores potential energy again, ready for the next door opening action.

[0046] Compared to existing technologies that use drive motors and transmission structures to achieve automatic door opening, this application uses an elastic energy storage component that stores potential energy to release potential energy to achieve automatic door opening, which is more energy-efficient and reduces operating costs.

[0047] Compared to existing technologies that use wax motors to open doors, this application utilizes the potential energy stored in an elastic energy storage component when the pusher is in its reset state. When the user wants to open the door, the elastic energy storage component simply releases its potential energy. When the user wants to close the door, they simply push it in the closing direction. During the closing process, the elastic energy storage component re-accumulates potential energy, and it requires no cooling time, allowing the user to close the door at any time. Attached Figure Description

[0048] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the automatic door opening device of a dishwasher provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0049] Figure 2 An exploded view of the automatic door opening device of a dishwasher provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0050] Figure 3 A schematic diagram of the automatic door opening device of the dishwasher provided in the embodiment of the present invention when the pushing member is in the reset state during operation;

[0051] Figure 4 A schematic diagram of the automatic door opening device of the dishwasher provided in the embodiment of the invention, when the pushing member is in the pushing state during operation;

[0052] Figure 5 A schematic diagram showing the locking connection between the push member and the locking member in the automatic door opening device of the dishwasher provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0053] Figure 6 A schematic diagram of the pushing member from one perspective in the automatic door opening device of the dishwasher provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0054] Figure 7 A schematic diagram of the pusher in the automatic door opening device of the dishwasher provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0055] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram showing the automatic door opening device of a dishwasher provided in an embodiment of the present invention, with the locking member in the locking hole and the rotating member about to contact the locking member;

[0056] Figure 9 A schematic diagram of the locking member from one perspective in the automatic door opening device of the dishwasher provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0057] Figure 10 A schematic diagram of the locking member from another perspective in the automatic door opening device of the dishwasher provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0058] Figure 11 An exploded view of the unlocking component in the automatic door opening device of the dishwasher provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0059] Figure 12 for Figure 11 A schematic diagram of the slider from another perspective;

[0060] Figure 13 A schematic diagram of the rotating component structure of the unlocking assembly in the automatic door opening device of the dishwasher provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0061] Figure 14A schematic diagram of the lower housing from one perspective in the automatic door opening device of the dishwasher provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0062] Figure 15 A schematic diagram of the lower housing from another perspective in the automatic door opening device of the dishwasher provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0063] Figure 16 for Figure 15 Enlarged view of point A in the middle.

[0064] Label Explanation:

[0065] 1. Housing; 11. First elastic energy storage component mounting structure; 12. First guide groove; 13. Lower housing; 131. Elastic energy storage component limiting groove; 132. Locking mechanism limiting groove; 14. Upper housing; 15. Buckle;

[0066] 2. Flexible energy storage component;

[0067] 3. Pushing component; 31. Locking hole; 32. First guide rail; 33. Second elastic energy storage component mounting structure; 34. Drive rod; 35. Pushing component body; 351. Main body; 3511. Second guide rail; 352. Abutting part;

[0068] 4. Locking mechanism; 41. Locking element; 411. First mating surface; 412. Third mating surface; 413. Slot; 414. Connecting cavity; 42. Locking element reset element;

[0069] 5. Unlocking mechanism; 51. Unlocking component; 511. Sliding element; 5111. Column; 5112. Shaft; 5113. Second guide groove; 512. Rotating element; 5121. Second mating surface; 5122. Rotating hole; 5123. Insertion hole; 5124. Avoidance arc surface; 513. Torsional elastic element;

[0070] 52. Unlock the driver. Detailed Implementation

[0071] The technical solutions of the embodiments of this application will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of this application, and not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of this application, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this application.

[0072] In the description of this application, it should be understood that the terms "front", "rear", "left", "right", "bottom", "inner", etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They are only for the convenience of describing this application and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on this application.

[0073] The terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of technical features indicated. Therefore, a feature defined as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include one or more of that feature. In the description of this application, unless otherwise stated, "a plurality of" means two or more.

[0074] In the description of this application, it should be noted that, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, the terms "installation" and "connection" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this application based on the specific circumstances.

[0075] Example 1

[0076] This embodiment provides an automatic door opening device for a dishwasher, which can automatically open the dishwasher door and allow the user to close the dishwasher door at any time. It also has low operating costs and improves the user experience.

[0077] Specifically, see Figures 1-4 In this embodiment, the automatic door opening device of the dishwasher includes a housing 1, an elastic energy storage component 2, and a pushing component 3.

[0078] The elastic energy storage element 2 is capable of storing or releasing potential energy. Optionally, in this embodiment, the elastic energy storage element 2 is a compression spring. Of course, in other embodiments, the elastic energy storage element 2 can also be other forms of elastic elements, such as elastic rubber.

[0079] The pusher 3 is movably disposed inside the housing 1 along the first direction and can switch between the push state and the reset state. One end of the elastic energy storage member 2 is connected to the inner wall of the housing 1, and the other end is connected to the pusher 3. The pusher 3 can be locked or unlocked from the housing 1.

[0080] In the reset state, the pusher 3 and the housing 1 are locked so that the elastic energy storage member 2 is in a compressed energy storage state, and the elastic energy storage member 2 accumulates potential energy to push the pusher 3 to the pushing state; when the pusher 3 and the housing 1 are unlocked, the elastic energy storage member 2 releases potential energy.

[0081] When the automatic door opening device of the dishwasher provided in this embodiment is applied to the door of the dishwasher, the automatic door opening device of the dishwasher is set along the opening and closing direction of the door, and the output end of the pusher 3 of the automatic door opening device of the dishwasher is connected to the door, so that the opening and closing of the door is realized by the automatic door opening device of the dishwasher.

[0082] When the door is closed, the automatic door opening device of the dishwasher, driven by the pusher 3, is in the reset state. At this time, the pusher 3 is locked to the housing 1 and cannot move. The elastic energy storage device 2 stores potential energy to push the pusher 3 to the open state. When it is necessary to control the door to switch from the closed state to the open state, the pusher 3 is unlocked from the housing 1. At this time, the movement restriction of the pusher 3 by the housing 1 is removed, and the elastic energy storage device 2 releases its stored potential energy. During the release of potential energy, the elastic energy storage device 2 pushes the pusher 3 to the open state. At this time, the pusher 3 moves forward in the first direction. The output end of the pusher 3 in the open state pushes the dishwasher door to move, switching the door to the open state.

[0083] When the dishwasher door needs to be switched from the open to the closed state, the user pushes the door in the closing direction. The door pushes the pusher 3 in the opposite direction, switching the pusher 3 from the pushing state to the reset state, thus switching the door from the open state to the closed state. Simultaneously, when the pusher 3 switches from the pushing state to the reset state, the pusher 3 relocks with the housing 1, and the elastic energy storage member 2 is compressed and accumulates potential energy again, ready for the next door opening action.

[0084] Compared to the existing technology that uses a drive motor and transmission structure to achieve automatic door opening, in this application, the door is automatically opened by releasing potential energy from an elastic energy storage element 2 that has accumulated potential energy, which is more energy-efficient and reduces the cost of use.

[0085] Compared to existing technologies that use a wax motor to open the door, in this embodiment, the door opening action relies on the potential energy stored in the elastic energy storage component 2 when the pusher 3 is in the reset state. When the user wants to open the door, the elastic energy storage component 2 simply releases the potential energy. When the user wants to close the door, the user directly pushes the door in the closing direction, and the elastic energy storage component 2 stores potential energy again during the closing process. Furthermore, the elastic energy storage component 2 does not require a cooling time, allowing the user to close the door at any time.

[0086] Optionally, see Figure 2 The housing 1 includes a lower housing 13 and an upper housing 14 that can be fastened together. The elastic energy storage component 2 and the pusher component 3 are both installed inside the lower housing 13.

[0087] See Figure 2 , Figures 4-7In one embodiment, the inner wall of the housing 1 is provided with a first elastic energy storage component mounting structure 11, and one end of the elastic energy storage component 2 is connected to the first elastic energy storage component mounting structure 11; and / or

[0088] The pusher 3 is provided with a second elastic energy storage component mounting structure 33, and the other end of the elastic energy storage component 2 is connected to the second elastic energy storage component mounting structure 33.

[0089] Specifically, in this embodiment, the inner wall of the shell 1 is provided with a first elastic energy storage component mounting structure 11, and one end of the elastic energy storage component 2 is connected to the first elastic energy storage component mounting structure 11; the pusher 3 is provided with a second elastic energy storage component mounting structure 33, and the other end of the elastic energy storage component 2 is connected to the second elastic energy storage component mounting structure 33. This arrangement ensures the stability of the installation position of the elastic energy storage component 2 on the one hand, and on the other hand, it ensures that the elastic energy storage component 2 will not deflect when releasing potential energy and accumulating potential energy, thus ensuring its normal operation.

[0090] More specifically, in this embodiment, the elastic energy storage element 2 is a compression spring, and both the first elastic energy storage element mounting structure 11 and the second elastic energy storage element mounting structure 33 are columnar. One end of the elastic energy storage element 2 is inserted into the first elastic energy storage element mounting structure 11, and the other end of the elastic energy storage element 2 is inserted into the second elastic energy storage element mounting structure 33.

[0091] In one embodiment, see Figures 3-5 In order to ensure that the pusher 3 can be stably in the reset state and the door can be stably in the closed state, the automatic door opening device of the dishwasher also includes a locking mechanism 4. The locking mechanism 4 includes a locking member 41, which is movably disposed in the housing 1 along the second direction to lock and connect with the pusher 3 to restrict the movement of the pusher 3 or to disengage from the pusher 3. The second direction is set at an angle to the first direction.

[0092] Specifically, see Figure 3 When the pusher 3 is in the reset state, the locking member 41 is locked to the pusher 3 to restrict the movement of the pusher 3.

[0093] When the pusher 3 needs to switch from the reset state to the push state, the locking member 41 moves along the second direction and disengages from the pusher 3, so that the pusher 3 can move forward along the first direction.

[0094] Optionally, in this embodiment, the second direction is set at a right angle to the first direction.

[0095] Optionally, in some embodiments, a locking member drive member can be provided to cooperate with the locking member 41. The locking member drive member drives the locking member 41 to reciprocate along the second direction, thereby locking or unlocking the pushing member 3. Further optionally, the locking member drive member is a cylinder or a motor.

[0096] Of course, in other embodiments, to save costs, there is no need to provide a locking member drive; other structures can be used to lock or unlock the locking member 41 on the pushing member 3. Specifically, in one embodiment, see [link to embodiment]. Figures 3-5 The dishwasher's automatic door opening device also includes an unlocking mechanism 5, which can drive the locking member 41, which is locked to the push member 3, to move out of the push member 3.

[0097] See Figure 5 The unlocking mechanism 5 includes an unlocking component 51, which is movably mounted on the pusher 3 and can move to contact the locking component 41, and push the locking component 41 to move in the direction of disengaging from the pusher 3, thereby unlocking the pusher 3 and the inner wall of the housing 1.

[0098] When it is necessary to control the locking member 41 to disengage from the pushing member 3, the unlocking component 51 is controlled to move until it contacts the locking member 41, and the locking member 41 is pushed in the direction of disengaging from the pushing member 3.

[0099] See Figure 5 and Figure 11 Specifically, in one embodiment, the unlocking component 51 includes a slider 511 and a rotator 512.

[0100] The sliding member 511 is movably disposed on the pusher 3 along the first direction.

[0101] The rotating member 512 is selectively rotatably disposed on the sliding member 511. When the sliding member 511 moves in the first direction, the rotating member 512 can move to contact the locking member 41 and push the locking member 41 to move in the direction of disengaging from the pushing member 3. When the sliding member 511 moves in the first direction in the opposite direction, the rotating member 512 can rotate relative to the sliding member 511 to avoid the locking member 41.

[0102] Specifically, from the user's perspective, the first positive direction is the direction forward along the first direction; the first negative direction is the direction backward along the first direction.

[0103] Specifically, when it is necessary to switch the pusher 3 from the reset state to the push state, the slider 511 is first controlled to move forward along the first direction on the pusher 3. The rotating member 512 moves forward along the first direction along with the slider 511. When the rotating member 512 contacts the locking member 41, the rotating member 512 continues to move forward along the first direction and can push the locking member 41 to move in the direction of disengaging from the pusher 3, thus unlocking the pusher 3. At this time, the potential energy of the elastic energy storage member 2 is released, and the pusher 3 is switched to the push state. During the process of the elastic energy storage member 2 releasing potential energy, the pusher 3 continues to push the door body to move in the opening direction until the potential energy of the elastic energy storage member 2 is released and the door body is fully open.

[0104] Specifically, when the pusher 3 is in the reset state, the locking member 41 is locked to the pusher 3 to restrict its movement. At this time, the slider 511 of the unlocking component 51 needs to move back to the reset state relative to the pusher 3 in the first direction, in preparation for the next unlocking action. During the process of the slider 511 moving back to the reset state in the first direction, the rotating member 512 can rotate relative to the slider 511 to avoid the locking member 41, thus preventing the rotating member 512 from affecting the position of the locking member 41 in the locked state.

[0105] Furthermore, the rotating member 512 is provided with a relief arc surface 5124. During the process of the sliding member 511 moving in the opposite direction to the reset state, when the rotating member 512 can rotate relative to the sliding member 511 to avoid the locking member 41, the relief arc surface 5124 rotates to slide into contact with the locking member 41.

[0106] Preferably, the avoidance arc surface 5124 is an outwardly convex arc surface, which fully avoids the rotating part 512 from affecting the position of the locking part 41 in the locked state.

[0107] Alternatively, in one embodiment, see Figure 5 The locking mechanism 4 also includes a locking member reset member 42, which is disposed inside the housing 1. One end of the locking member reset member 42 is elastically connected to the inner wall of the housing 1, and the other end is elastically connected to the locking member 41. When the locking member 41 moves in the direction of disengaging from the pushing member 3, the locking member reset member 42 is compressed.

[0108] That is, when the locking member 41 moves in the direction of disengaging from the pushing member 3, the locking member reset member 42 is compressed. The compression of the locking member reset member 42 not only makes room for the locking member 41 to move in the direction of disengaging from the pushing member 3, but also accumulates elastic restoring force to help the locking member 41 relock with the pushing member 3.

[0109] See Figure 3 , Figure 4 and Figure 14In order to limit the movement direction of the locking mechanism 4, a locking mechanism limiting groove 132 with one end open is provided in the housing 1. The opening end of the locking mechanism limiting groove 132 is located away from the inner side wall of the housing 1.

[0110] The locking mechanism limiting groove 132 extends along the second direction. Both the locking member reset member 42 and the locking member 41 are located within the locking mechanism limiting groove 132. One end of the locking member reset member 42 abuts against the inner sidewall of the housing 1, and the other end is connected to the locking member 41. The locking member 41 is located near the opening end of the locking mechanism limiting groove 132 and can extend or retract relative to the opening.

[0111] Meanwhile, the inner wall of the locking mechanism limit groove 132 abuts against the side of the locking member 41, ensuring the stability of the locking member 41 and the push member 3 in locking, and fully preventing the push member 3 from moving when the locking member 41 and the push member 3 are locked together.

[0112] Specifically, see Figure 10 The locking member 41 is provided with a connecting cavity 414 that connects to the locking member reset member 42. The other end of the locking member reset member 42 elastically abuts against the bottom wall of the connecting cavity 414.

[0113] Further, see Figure 8 , Figure 9 and Figure 10 In one embodiment, in order for the rotating member 512 to push the locking member 41 to move in the direction of disengaging from the pushing member 3, the locking member 41 is provided with a first mating surface 411, and the rotating member 512 is provided with a second mating surface 5121. The second mating surface 5121 can move to contact the first mating surface 411 and push the locking member 41 to move in the direction of disengaging from the pushing member 3.

[0114] Specifically, the pusher 3 is provided with a locking hole 31 that engages with the locking member 41. When the second mating surface 5121 moves to contact the first mating surface 411 and pushes the locking member 41 in the direction of disengaging from the pusher 3, it is understood that, in order to avoid the rotating member 512 interfering with the movement of the pusher 3, the rotating member 512 will not move into the locking hole 31. The rotating member 512 can only cause the portion of the locking member 41 that extends relative to the locking hole 31 to retract into the locking hole. At this time, in order for the locking member 41 to continue moving in the direction of disengaging from the pusher 3, the locking member 41 is provided with a third mating surface 412. The third mating surface 412 can move to contact the inner wall surface of the locking hole 31, and the inner wall surface of the locking hole 31 can push the locking member 41 in the direction of disengaging from the locking hole 31.

[0115] That is, when the locking member 41 is locked to the pushing member 3, the locking member 41 is installed through the locking hole 31. When it is necessary to disengage the locking member 41 from the pushing member 3, the disengagement process of the locking member 41 is divided into two stages.

[0116] The first stage is as follows: the rotating member 512 moves forward along the first direction with the sliding member 511, the second mating surface 5121 of the rotating member 512 moves to contact the first mating surface 411 of the locking member 41, and pushes the locking member 41 to retract into the locking hole 31.

[0117] The second stage is as follows: the elastic energy storage component 2 releases potential energy, driving the pusher 3 to move forward along the first direction. During the movement, the inner wall surface of the locking hole 31 pushes the locking component 41 to move in the direction of disengaging from the locking hole 31 until the locking component 41 completely exits the locking hole 31.

[0118] When the locking member 41 is completely disengaged from the locking hole 31, the elastic energy storage member 2 fully releases its potential energy, causing the pushing member 3 to quickly open the dishwasher door.

[0119] Specifically, see Figure 9 and Figure 10 On the locking member 41, the first mating surface 411 and the third mating surface 412 are provided on the same side of the locking member 41.

[0120] Along the second direction, there is a positional difference between the first mating surface 411 and the third mating surface 412. The first mating surface 411 is positioned away from the pusher 3 relative to the third mating surface 412, so that the second mating surface 5121 of the rotating member 512 can smoothly push the locking member 41 back into the locking hole 31. That is, at this time, the first mating surface 411 completely exits the locking hole 31, and the third mating surface 412 enters the locking hole 31.

[0121] Along the first direction, there is a positional difference between the first mating surface 411 and the third mating surface 412. The first mating surface 411 is positioned relatively rearward so that the first mating surface 411 can contact the second mating surface 5121 of the rotating member 512 first.

[0122] See Figure 5 and Figure 11 Specifically, in order to enable selective rotation of the rotating member 512 on the sliding member 511, in one embodiment, the unlocking assembly 51 further includes a torsional elastic member 513, which is disposed on the sliding member 511 and elastically connected to the rotating member 512. When the sliding member 511 moves forward in the first direction, the elastic force of the torsional elastic member 513 is greater than the force exerted by the locking member 41 on the rotating member 512, so as to ensure that the rotating member 512 will not rotate at this time.

[0123] Optionally, the torsional elastic element 513 is a torsion spring.

[0124] When the sliding member 511 moves in the opposite direction in the first direction, the locking member 41 is locked to the pushing member 3. The locking member reset member 42 is in the released state and the elastic force of the locking member reset member 42 is greater than the elastic force of the torsional elastic member 513, so that the rotating member 512 rotates relative to the sliding member 511 to avoid the locking member 41, so as to avoid the rotating member 512 interfering with the locking member 41 locking the pushing member 3.

[0125] Furthermore, in one embodiment, see [link to relevant documentation]. Figure 5 The unlocking mechanism 5 also includes an unlocking drive component 52, which is disposed on the pusher 3 and whose output end is connected to the unlocking assembly 51. Specifically, the output end of the unlocking drive component 52 is fixedly connected to the slider 511.

[0126] That is, the unlocking drive 52 drives the movement of the unlocking component 51, controls the unlocking component 51 to unlock the locking mechanism 4, and controls the reset of the unlocking component 51.

[0127] Specifically, in this embodiment, the unlocking drive 52 is a wax motor. The wax motor push rod of the wax motor is fixedly connected to the slider 511, and the slider 511 is driven by the wax motor push rod to reciprocate on the pusher 3.

[0128] Understandably, when the door opens automatically, the wax motor is powered on, and after the pusher 3 unlocks from the housing 1, the wax motor is powered off. After the wax motor is powered off, the elastic energy storage component 2 releases potential energy, thus enabling the door to open automatically. In other words, during the automatic door opening process, the wax motor does not need to be powered on continuously, resulting in relatively low energy consumption and lower user operating costs.

[0129] See Figure 6 , Figure 7 and Figure 14 One of the inner walls of the pusher 3 and the housing 1 is provided with a first guide groove 12, and the other is provided with a first guide rail 32 that slides in cooperation with the first guide groove 12.

[0130] More specifically, in this embodiment, the pusher 3 is provided with a first guide rail 32; the inner wall of the lower housing 13 of the housing 1 is provided with a first guide groove 12.

[0131] Optionally, there are multiple first guide rails 32 and first guide grooves 12, and they are set in a one-to-one correspondence.

[0132] Specifically, see Figure 14 The housing 1 is also provided with an elastic energy storage component limiting groove 131. The first elastic energy storage component mounting structure 11 is provided in the elastic energy storage component limiting groove 131. The groove wall of the elastic energy storage component limiting groove 131 can also limit the elastic energy storage component 2.

[0133] See Figure 5 , Figure 6 and Figure 7 In one embodiment, the pusher 3 includes a pusher body 35 and a drive rod 34.

[0134] The pusher body 35 is movably disposed within the housing 1 along the first direction.

[0135] One end of the drive rod 34 is connected to the pusher body 35, and the other end extends out of the housing 1. The other end of the drive rod 34 is configured to connect to the door of the dishwasher.

[0136] Specifically, the side wall of the housing 1 is provided with a through hole for the drive rod 34 to slide through. More specifically, the through hole is provided in the lower housing 13.

[0137] The pusher body 35 includes a generally square main body 351, with an abutment portion 352 on each side of the main body 351. An installation cavity is provided within the main body 351, and the unlocking mechanism 5 is disposed within the installation cavity on the main body 351. Each abutment portion 352 is provided with a second elastic energy storage component mounting structure 33. One end of the elastic energy storage component 2 elastically abuts against the inner wall of the lower housing 13, and the other end passes through the second elastic energy storage component mounting structure 33 and elastically abuts against the abutment portion 352.

[0138] Optionally, the abutment portion 352 is a hollow structure to reduce the weight of the pusher body 35 and ensure that the potential energy stored in the elastic energy storage component 2 can smoothly push the pusher 3 from the reset state to the push state.

[0139] A locking hole 31 is provided on each of the opposite sides of the main body 351, and the locking hole 31 communicates with the mounting cavity.

[0140] Correspondingly, the unlocking component 51 includes a slider 511 and two rotating members 512, with the two rotating members 512 disposed on the slider 511 via the same torsional elastic member 513.

[0141] Specifically, see Figure 5 , Figures 11-13The sliding member 511 has a column 5111 for mounting the torsional elastic member 513. The sliding member 511 also has two shafts 5112, which are rotatably connected to two rotating members 512 in a one-to-one correspondence. The torsional elastic member 513 has a roughly "V" shaped structure, with its rotating shaft sleeved on the column 5111. The two degrees of freedom of the torsional elastic member 513 are connected to the two sliding members 511 respectively. During the transition from the reset state to the pushing state, the rotating member 512 does not rotate. During the transition from the pushing state to the reset state, the rotating member 512 rotates.

[0142] Accordingly, a rotating hole 5122 that mates with the shaft 5112 is provided on the rotating member 512. At the same time, an insertion hole 5123 that mates with the free end of the torsional elastic member 513 is provided on the rotating member 512.

[0143] Correspondingly, there are also two locking mechanisms 4. The two locking mechanisms 4 are located on both sides of the main body 351, and the locking mechanisms 4 are disposed in the lower housing 13. The locking member reset member 42 is a spring, and the axis of the locking member reset member 42 is arranged along the second direction.

[0144] Furthermore, in order to ensure that the slider 511 can move accurately along the first direction on the pusher 3 without deviating, one of the slider 511 and the pusher 3 is provided with a second guide groove 5113, and the other is provided with a second guide rail 3511 that slides in cooperation with the second guide groove 5113.

[0145] Specifically, the sliding member 511 is provided with a second guide groove 5113, and the mounting cavity of the main body 351 is provided with a second guide rail 3511.

[0146] Furthermore, in some embodiments, see Figure 15 and Figure 16 To further ensure the connection stability between the locking member 41 and the pushing member 3 when they are locked together, the housing 1 is provided with a buckle 15 that can engage with the locking member 41. When the locking member 41 and the pushing member 3 are locked together, the locking member 41 engages with the buckle 15.

[0147] Specifically, the buckle 15 is provided on the lower housing 13.

[0148] Correspondingly, see Figure 9 and Figure 10 The locking member 41 is provided with a slot 413 that mates with the buckle 15.

[0149] Preferably, each locking member 41 has a slot 413 on each of its opposite sides, and each locking member 41 has two buckles 15.

[0150] Specifically, when the door is closed, the pusher 3 is in the reset state, the wax motor push rod of the unlocking drive 52 is in the retracted state, and the rotating part 512 is located behind the locking part 41.

[0151] The dishwasher includes a main control board that controls the automatic door opening device of the dishwasher when it is activated.

[0152] For example, when the automatic door opening device of the dishwasher provided in this embodiment is applied to the dishwasher, the process of performing the automatic door opening action is as follows:

[0153] See Figure 3 The dishwasher's main control board sends a command to power on the unlocking drive unit 52, causing the heating element inside the unlocking drive unit 52 to heat up, which in turn raises the temperature of the wax inside the unlocking drive unit 52.

[0154] The temperature of the wax inside the unlocking drive unit 52 gradually increases and begins to expand, and the wax motor push rod of the unlocking drive unit 52 is gradually pushed out. This process lasts for about 3-5 minutes.

[0155] As the wax motor push rod of the unlocking drive component 52 is gradually pushed out, the wax motor push rod pushes the sliding component 511 to move forward in the first direction, and the sliding component 511 drives the two rotating components 512 to also move forward in the first direction.

[0156] During the forward movement of the two rotating parts 512 in the first direction, after the second mating surface 5121 contacts the first mating surface 411, the rotating parts 512 drive the two locking parts 41 to retract into their respective locking holes 31, and at the same time, the reset parts 42 of the two locking parts are compressed; Figure 3 Taking the orientation shown as an example, the locking member 41 on the left moves to the left, and the locking member 41 on the right moves to the right.

[0157] At this time, as the two locking members 41 retract into their respective locking holes 31, the locking force of the locking member 41 on the push member 3 is reduced to less than the force exerted by the elastic energy storage member 2 on the push member 3. The elastic energy storage member 2 releases potential energy and drives the push member 3 to move forward along the first direction (at this time, the push member 3 is in the pushing state). During this process, the inner wall surface of the locking hole 31 contacts the third mating surface 412 and drives the locking member 41 to completely exit the locking hole 31 (that is, the left locking member 41 moves further to the left and the right locking member 41 moves further to the right). After the potential energy of the elastic energy storage member 2 is released, the push member 3 moves into place in the first direction, and the door is fully opened.

[0158] Specifically, when the door is fully open, the pusher 3 is in the push state, the wax motor push rod of the unlocking drive 52 is in the fully extended state, the locking member 41 slides in contact with the side panel of the pusher 3, and the rotating member 512 is located in front of the locking member 41.

[0159] For example, in this embodiment, the automatic door opening device of the dishwasher performs the following actions when closing the door:

[0160] See Figure 4 When the user closes the door, the user pushes the door in the closing direction, and the door causes the pusher 3 to move in the opposite direction in the first direction;

[0161] When the pusher 3 moves in the reverse direction along the first direction until the locking hole 31 is directly opposite the locking member 41, under the elastic restoring force of the locking member reset member 42, the locking member 41 passes through the locking hole 31 and extends into the mounting cavity of the main body 351 of the pusher body 35 (to... Figure 4 Taking the indicated orientation as an example, the locking member 41 on the left moves to the right, and the locking member 41 on the right moves to the left; at this time, the locking member 41 locks the pushing member 3, the pushing member 3 cannot continue to move, the door is in the closed state, and the elastic energy storage member 2 also completes energy storage again.

[0162] It is understandable that the wax motor push rod of the unlocking drive component 52 did not fully retract within 5-7 minutes immediately after the door closing action was completed.

[0163] Specifically, immediately after the door closing action is completed, see Figure 4 The rotating part 512 is located in front of the locking part 41; the wax motor push rod of the unlocking drive part 52 begins to retract gradually, and drives the sliding part 511 and the rotating part 512 to move in the opposite direction in the first direction. When the clearance arc surface 5124 of the rotating member 512, which moves in the opposite direction in the first direction, comes into contact with the locking member 41, the two are in an interference state. However, since the elastic force of the locking member reset member 42 is greater than the elastic force of the torsional elastic member 513, the rotating member 512 will not drive the locking member 41 to move. Under the force applied by the locking member 41 to the clearance arc surface 5124, both rotating members 512 rotate, causing the torsional elastic member 513 to be compressed and the included angle between the two free ends of the torsional elastic member 513 to become smaller. Subsequently, the sliding member 511 and the rotating member 512 continue to move in the opposite direction in the first direction. When the rotating member 512 is completely disengaged from the locking member 41, under the action of the elastic restoring force of the torsional elastic member 513, the rotating member 512 rotates to the reset state, waiting for the next door opening action.

[0164] Seven minutes after the door closing action is completed, the wax motor push rod of the unlocking drive component 52 is fully retracted.

[0165] Example 2

[0166] This embodiment provides a dishwasher, which includes a door body and an automatic door opening device of the dishwasher according to Embodiment 1 is provided in the door opening and closing direction. The output end of the pusher 3 of the automatic door opening device is connected to the door body.

[0167] The dishwasher provided in this embodiment uses the aforementioned automatic door opening device to achieve automatic door opening.

[0168] When the door is closed, the automatic door opening device of the dishwasher, driven by the pusher 3, is in the reset state. At this time, the pusher 3 is locked to the housing 1 and cannot move. The elastic energy storage device 2 stores potential energy to push the pusher 3 to the open state. When it is necessary to control the door to switch from the closed state to the open state, the pusher 3 is unlocked from the housing 1. At this time, the movement restriction of the pusher 3 by the housing 1 is removed, and the elastic energy storage device 2 releases its stored potential energy. During the release of potential energy, the elastic energy storage device 2 pushes the pusher 3 to the open state. At this time, the pusher 3 moves forward in the first direction. The output end of the pusher 3 in the open state pushes the dishwasher door to move, switching the door to the open state.

[0169] When the dishwasher door needs to be switched from the open to the closed state, the user pushes the door in the closing direction. The door pushes the pusher 3 in the opposite direction, switching the pusher 3 from the pushing state to the reset state, thus switching the door from the open state to the closed state. Simultaneously, when the pusher 3 switches from the pushing state to the reset state, the pusher 3 relocks with the housing 1, and the elastic energy storage member 2 is compressed and accumulates potential energy again, ready for the next door opening action.

[0170] Compared to the existing technology that uses a drive motor and transmission structure to achieve automatic door opening, in this application, the door is automatically opened by releasing potential energy from an elastic energy storage element 2 that has accumulated potential energy, which is more energy-efficient and reduces the cost of use.

[0171] Compared to existing technologies that use a wax motor to open the door, in this embodiment, the door opening action relies on the potential energy stored in the elastic energy storage component 2 when the pusher 3 is in the reset state. When the user wants to open the door, the elastic energy storage component 2 simply releases the potential energy. When the user wants to close the door, the user directly pushes the door in the closing direction, and the elastic energy storage component 2 stores potential energy again during the closing process. Furthermore, the elastic energy storage component 2 does not require a cooling time, allowing the user to close the door at any time.

[0172] In the specific implementation of the above embodiments, the technical features can be combined in any non-contradictory way. For the sake of brevity, not all possible combinations of the above technical features are described. However, as long as the combination of these technical features is not contradictory, it should be considered to be within the scope of this specification.

[0173] The specific embodiments described above are merely illustrative of several implementations of the present invention, and while the descriptions are detailed, they should not be construed as limiting the scope of the present invention. It should be noted that those skilled in the art can make various modifications and improvements without departing from the concept of the present invention, and these modifications and improvements all fall within the scope of protection of the present invention. Therefore, the scope of protection of this patent should be determined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. An automatic door opening device for a dishwasher, characterized in that, include: Shell (1); The elastic energy storage component (2) is capable of storing or releasing potential energy; The pusher (3) is movably disposed in the housing (1) along the first direction and can switch between the push state and the reset state. One end of the elastic energy storage member (2) is connected to the inner wall of the housing (1) and the other end is connected to the pusher (3). The pusher (3) can be locked or unlocked with the housing (1). In the reset state, the pusher (3) and the housing (1) are locked so that the elastic energy storage member (2) is in a compressed energy storage state, and the elastic energy storage member (2) accumulates potential energy to push the pusher (3) to the pushing state; when the pusher (3) and the housing (1) are unlocked, the elastic energy storage member (2) releases the potential energy.

2. The automatic door opening device for a dishwasher according to claim 1, characterized in that, The automatic door opening device of the dishwasher also includes a locking mechanism (4), which includes a locking member (41). The locking member (41) is movably disposed in the housing (1) along a second direction to lock and connect with the push member (3) to restrict the movement of the push member (3) or to disengage from the push member (3). The second direction is set at an angle to the first direction.

3. The automatic door opening device for a dishwasher according to claim 2, characterized in that, The automatic door opening device of the dishwasher also includes an unlocking mechanism (5), which is disposed on the pusher (3). The unlocking mechanism (5) includes an unlocking component (51), which is movably disposed on the pusher (3) and can move to contact the locking component (41) and push the locking component (41) to move in a direction away from the pusher (3) so that the pusher (3) and the inner wall of the housing (1) are unlocked.

4. The automatic door opening device for a dishwasher according to claim 3, characterized in that, The unlocking component (51) includes: A sliding member (511) is movably disposed on the pushing member (3) along the first direction; The rotating member (512) is selectively rotatably disposed on the sliding member (511). When the sliding member (511) moves forward along the first direction, the rotating member (512) can move to contact the locking member (41) and push the locking member (41) to move in the direction of disengaging from the pushing member (3). When the sliding member (511) moves in the opposite direction along the first direction, the rotating member (512) can rotate relative to the sliding member (511) to avoid the locking member (41).

5. The automatic door opening device for a dishwasher according to claim 4, characterized in that, The locking member (41) is provided with a first mating surface (411), and the rotating member (512) is provided with a second mating surface (5121). The second mating surface (5121) can move to contact the first mating surface (411) and push the locking member (41) to move in the direction of disengaging from the pushing member (3).

6. The automatic door opening device for a dishwasher according to claim 5, characterized in that, The locking member (41) is provided with a third mating surface (412), and the pushing member (3) is provided with a locking hole (31) that locks and engages with the locking member (41). The third mating surface (412) can move to contact the inner wall surface of the locking hole (31), and the inner wall surface of the locking hole (31) can push the locking member (41) to move in the direction of disengaging from the locking hole (31).

7. The automatic door opening device for a dishwasher according to claim 4, characterized in that, The locking mechanism (4) further includes a locking member reset member (42), which is disposed inside the housing (1). One end of the locking member reset member (42) is elastically connected to the inner wall of the housing (1), and the other end is elastically connected to the locking member (41). When the locking member (41) moves in the direction of disengaging from the pushing member (3), the locking member reset member (42) is compressed.

8. The automatic door opening device for a dishwasher according to claim 7, characterized in that, The unlocking component (51) further includes a torsion elastic element (513), which is disposed on the sliding element (511) and elastically connected to the rotating element (512); When the sliding member (511) moves in the positive direction along the first direction, the elastic force of the torsional elastic member (513) is greater than the force exerted by the locking member (41) on the rotating member (512); When the sliding member (511) moves in the opposite direction along the first direction, the locking member (41) is locked to the pushing member (3), the locking member reset member (42) is in a released state and the elastic force of the locking member reset member (42) is greater than the elastic force of the torsional elastic member (513), so that the rotating member (512) rotates relative to the sliding member (511) to avoid the locking member (41).

9. The automatic door opening device for a dishwasher according to claim 3, characterized in that, The unlocking mechanism (5) further includes an unlocking drive (52), which is disposed on the pusher (3) and the output end of the unlocking drive (52) is connected to the unlocking component (51).

10. The automatic door opening device for a dishwasher according to claim 9, characterized in that, The unlocking drive (52) is a wax motor.

11. The automatic door opening device for a dishwasher according to any one of claims 2-10, characterized in that, The housing (1) is provided with a buckle (15) that can engage with the locking member (41). When the locking member (41) is locked and connected with the push member (3), the locking member (41) engages with the buckle (15).

12. The automatic door opening device for a dishwasher according to any one of claims 1-10, characterized in that, The inner wall of the housing (1) is provided with a first elastic energy storage component mounting structure (11), and one end of the elastic energy storage component (2) is connected to the first elastic energy storage component mounting structure (11); and / or The pusher (3) is provided with a second elastic energy storage component mounting structure (33), and the other end of the elastic energy storage component (2) is connected to the second elastic energy storage component mounting structure (33).

13. The automatic door opening device for a dishwasher according to any one of claims 1-10, characterized in that, One of the inner walls of the pusher (3) and the housing (1) is provided with a first guide groove (12), and the other is provided with a first guide rail (32) that slides in cooperation with the first guide groove (12).

14. The automatic door opening device for a dishwasher according to any one of claims 1-10, characterized in that, The pusher (3) includes: The pusher body (35) is movably disposed within the housing (1) along the first direction; The drive rod (34) is connected at one end to the pusher body (35) and at the other end extends out of the housing (1).

15. A dishwasher, including a door, characterized in that, An automatic door opening device for a dishwasher as described in any one of claims 1-14 is provided in the door opening and closing direction, and the output end of the pusher (3) of the automatic door opening device for the dishwasher is connected to the door.

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