Air-permeable device, dishwasher and control method thereof

Abstract

This invention relates to the field of kitchen appliances technology, disclosing a ventilation device, a dishwasher, and a control method thereof. The ventilation device, mounted on the dishwasher, includes a housing, a cover plate, and a drive mechanism. The housing has an air inlet communicating with the inner cavity of the dishwasher's inner tub, and one end of the housing is an opening forming an air outlet communicating with the outside of the dishwasher's inner tub. The cover plate is mounted on the housing; the drive mechanism is connected to the cover plate and is used to drive the cover plate to close or open the air outlet. This ventilation device, by designating one entire end of the housing as an air outlet, increases the air outlet area of ​​the dishwasher's inner tub, improving the speed of moisture removal and drying effect. During washing, the drive mechanism drives the cover plate to close the air outlet, reducing the loss of hot steam from the dishwasher's inner tub and preventing hot steam from wetting nearby parts and cabinets. Furthermore, by closing the air outlet with the cover plate, foreign objects are prevented from entering the inner tub through the air outlet of the housing, thus affecting the dishwasher's cleanliness.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of kitchen appliances technology, and in particular to a ventilation device, a dishwasher, and a control method thereof. Background Technology

[0002] The drying performance of a dishwasher is a crucial technical indicator for evaluating its quality and directly impacts user satisfaction. Currently, a common method to improve dishwasher drying performance is to add an air vent to the inner drum, connecting the inside of the dishwasher to the outside. During the drying cycle, this vent allows moisture inside the dishwasher to escape from the drum, thus improving the drying effect on the dishes.

[0003] However, during the washing cycle, hot steam escapes from the vents inside the dishwasher's drum, causing heat loss and prolonging the heating time. Furthermore, the steam may wet nearby components or cabinets, affecting the user experience. Current technology often uses smaller vents to minimize steam loss during the washing cycle; however, smaller vents can affect the drying of dishes. Additionally, prolonged vent opening allows small animals like cockroaches and ants to enter the dishwasher, compromising its cleaning effectiveness. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The first technical problem solved by the present invention is to provide a venting device that can effectively solve the technical problems in the prior art where the small air outlet of the dishwasher inner tub affects the drying effect and the long-term open air outlet affects the cleanliness of the dishwasher; it can achieve the purpose of ensuring the air outlet area of ​​the dishwasher inner tub and improving the drying performance, while preventing foreign objects from entering the dishwasher through the air outlet.

[0005] The second technical problem solved by the present invention is to provide a dishwasher that can effectively solve the technical problems of poor drying effect and easy entry of foreign objects into the dishwasher in the prior art, which affects the cleanliness of the dishwasher; it not only improves the drying effect of the dishwasher, but also ensures the cleanliness of the inside of the dishwasher.

[0006] The third technical problem solved by this invention is to provide a control method for a dishwasher that can effectively solve the technical problems of poor drying effect and impact on the cleanliness of dishwashers in the prior art; it not only improves the drying effect of the dishwasher, but also ensures the cleanliness of the inside of the dishwasher.

[0007] The first technical problem mentioned above is solved by the following technical solution:

[0008] A ventilation device, installed on a dishwasher, includes:

[0009] The housing has an air inlet that communicates with the inner cavity of the dishwasher's inner tub, and one end of the housing is an opening that forms an air outlet that communicates with the outside of the dishwasher's inner tub.

[0010] A cover plate is provided on the housing;

[0011] A drive mechanism, which is connected to the cover plate, is used to drive the cover plate to close or open the air outlet.

[0012] The breathable device described in this invention has the following advantages compared with the prior art:

[0013] The ventilation device provided by this invention includes a housing, a cover plate, and a drive mechanism. An air inlet on the housing communicates with the inner cavity of the dishwasher's inner tub, and one end of the housing is set as an opening, forming an air outlet communicating with the outside of the dishwasher's inner tub. During drying, the drive mechanism drives the cover plate to open the air outlet; during washing, the drive mechanism drives the cover plate to close the air outlet. The ventilation device provided by this invention, by setting the entire top of the housing as an opening to form an air outlet, increases the air outlet area of ​​the dishwasher's inner tub during drying, improving the speed of moisture removal and thus enhancing the drying effect. Furthermore, during washing, the drive mechanism drives the cover plate to close the air outlet, reducing the loss of hot steam from the dishwasher's inner tub and preventing hot steam from wetting nearby components and cabinets. Additionally, the air outlet of this ventilation device is only opened by the drive mechanism when the dishwasher is drying, preventing foreign objects from entering the inner tub through the air outlet of the housing and affecting the dishwasher's cleanliness.

[0014] In one embodiment, the cover plate is connected to one end of the air outlet via a first pivot, and the end of the cover plate near the first pivot extends away from the housing.

[0015] The driving mechanism includes a driving component and a telescopic rod. The driving component is connected to one end of the telescopic rod, and the other end of the telescopic rod is rotatably connected to the end of the cover plate near the first rotating shaft. The driving component is used to drive the telescopic rod to retract so as to drive the cover plate to rotate in the forward direction around the first rotating shaft to open the air outlet, or to drive the telescopic rod to extend so as to drive the cover plate to rotate in the reverse direction around the first rotating shaft to close the air outlet.

[0016] In one embodiment, the drive mechanism further includes a transmission link, one end of which is rotatably connected to the telescopic rod and the other end of which is rotatably connected to the cover plate;

[0017] The cover plate is provided with a first connecting seat, and a second rotating shaft is provided inside the first connecting seat; the end of the telescopic rod away from the driving member is provided with a second connecting seat, and a third rotating shaft is provided inside the second connecting seat. The second rotating shaft and the third rotating shaft are both arranged parallel to the first rotating shaft. One end of the transmission connecting rod is rotatably connected to the second rotating shaft, and the other end is rotatably connected to the third rotating shaft.

[0018] In one embodiment, the driving mechanism further includes an elastic component disposed on the first rotating shaft. One end of the elastic component abuts against the cover plate, and the other end abuts against the housing. The elastic component always has the tendency to drive the cover plate to rotate in the opposite direction around the first rotating shaft.

[0019] In one embodiment, the elastic component includes two torsion springs, which are respectively disposed at both ends of the first rotating shaft. The torsion springs are sleeved on the first rotating shaft, with the first leg of the torsion spring abutting against the side wall of the housing and the second leg of the torsion spring abutting against the bottom surface of the cover plate.

[0020] In one embodiment, mounting side plates are provided on both opposite sides of the housing, and the two ends of the first rotating shaft are respectively rotatably connected to the two mounting side plates;

[0021] A first limiting groove is provided on the mounting side plate, the bottom of the first limiting groove is parallel to the side wall where the drive mechanism is located, and the first support foot is placed in the first limiting groove; a second limiting groove is provided on each of the opposite sides of the cover plate, the bottom of the second limiting groove is parallel to the bottom surface of the cover plate, and the second support foot is placed in the second limiting groove.

[0022] In one embodiment, the drive component includes a solenoid valve connected to the telescopic rod. The solenoid valve is energized to control the telescopic rod to retract or extend.

[0023] In one embodiment, the ventilation device further includes a fixing cover, and the air inlet is provided with a fixing structure in the circumference, the fixing structure cooperating with the fixing cover to seal the shell and the inner liner;

[0024] The fixing structure includes a limiting member and a stop member; the fixing cover is provided with a limiting groove and a check-back elastic member in the circumferential direction. The fixing cover is screwed from the inside of the inner liner to the fixing structure on the outside of the inner liner, so that the limiting member abuts against the limiting groove, and the check-back elastic member abuts against the stop member, which can restrict the fixing cover from rotating in the opposite direction.

[0025] In one embodiment, the limiting member includes a limiting arc rib and a limiting vertical rib, wherein the limiting vertical rib is disposed at one end of the limiting arc rib;

[0026] The limiting groove includes a limiting base plate and a limiting vertical plate. The limiting arc rib is inserted into the limiting groove. The end of the limiting arc rib away from the limiting vertical rib abuts against the limiting vertical plate. The limiting vertical rib abuts against the end of the limiting base plate away from the limiting vertical plate.

[0027] In one embodiment, the ventilation device further includes a humidity detection element disposed on the inner wall of the housing near the air inlet, for detecting the air humidity inside the inner liner, and the humidity detection element is communicatively connected to the drive mechanism.

[0028] The second technical problem mentioned above is solved by the following technical solution:

[0029] A dishwasher, comprising an inner tub and a venting device as described in any of the above embodiments, the venting device being detachably connected to the top side of the inner tub.

[0030] The dishwasher described in this invention has the following advantages compared with the prior art:

[0031] The dishwasher provided by this invention utilizes the aforementioned ventilation device, which is detachably connected to one side of the top of the inner tub. Moisture in the inner tub flows upward into the ventilation device and is discharged through the air outlet of the shell. This not only increases the speed of moisture discharge but also facilitates the discharge of moisture from the inner tub, improving the drying performance of the dishwasher. At the same time, it prevents the loss of hot steam during washing and avoids hot steam wetting the parts and cabinets near the dishwasher. It also prevents foreign objects from entering the inner tub through the air outlet of the shell, thus affecting the cleanliness of the dishwasher.

[0032] The third technical problem mentioned above is solved by the following technical solution:

[0033] A dishwasher control method, applied to a dishwasher as described above, the dishwasher control method comprising the following steps:

[0034] When the dishwasher is washing, the drive mechanism is not working, and the cover plate closes the air outlet;

[0035] When the dishwasher transitions from the washing program to the drying program, the drive mechanism is controlled to open the air vent on the cover; simultaneously, the humidity sensor monitors the humidity level inside the inner tank in real time.

[0036] If the humidity detection device detects that the humidity value inside the inner liner is less than the set humidity value, it controls the drive mechanism to drive the cover plate to close the air outlet, and waits for the next drying program to start.

[0037] If the drying process has ended, and the humidity detection device detects that the humidity value inside the inner liner is still greater than or equal to the set humidity value, the drive mechanism is controlled to keep the air outlet open for a set time T.

[0038] After the set time T, if the humidity detection device detects that the humidity value inside the inner liner is still greater than or equal to the set humidity value, it will control the drive mechanism to keep the air outlet open for the set time T again.

[0039] This process is repeated until the humidity detection device detects that the humidity value inside the inner liner is less than the set humidity value. Then, the drive mechanism is controlled to drive the cover plate to close the air outlet, ready for the next drying process to start.

[0040] The dishwasher control method of the present invention has the following advantages compared with the prior art:

[0041] The dishwasher control method provided by this invention, applied to the aforementioned dishwasher, prevents the drive mechanism from operating during washing, and closes the vent with the cover to avoid loss of hot steam from the inner tub, thus extending washing time and saving energy. When the dishwasher transitions from the washing program to the drying program, the drive mechanism opens the vent of the venting device to ensure rapid moisture removal, improving drying efficiency and effectiveness. During the drying program, a humidity sensor monitors the humidity level inside the inner tub in real time. When the humidity level is lower than the set value, the drive mechanism closes the vent with the cover, awaiting the start of the next drying program. This prevents foreign objects from entering the dishwasher through the vent and affecting its cleanliness. Furthermore, if the humidity level inside the inner tub is still greater than or equal to the set value after the drying program ends, the drive mechanism keeps the vent open for a set time T until the humidity sensor detects that the humidity level is lower than the set value, at which point the drive mechanism closes the vent with the cover, awaiting the start of the next drying program. This automatically extends the drying time and ensures optimal drying results. Attached Figure Description

[0042] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present invention, the accompanying drawings used in the description of the embodiments of the present invention will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the accompanying drawings described below are only some embodiments of the present invention. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on the content of the embodiments of the present invention and these drawings without creative effort.

[0043] Figure 1 This is a first structural schematic diagram of the air-permeable device provided in Embodiment 1 of the present invention;

[0044] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the second structure of the breathable device provided in Embodiment 1 of the present invention;

[0045] Figure 3 This is a cross-sectional view of the rotatable connection between the cover plate and the housing provided in Embodiment 1 of the present invention;

[0046] Figure 4 This is a cross-sectional view of the air-permeable device provided in Embodiment 1 of the present invention;

[0047] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the flow of moisture in the air vent during the drying process of a dishwasher, provided in Embodiment 1 of the present invention.

[0048] Figure 6 This is a cross-sectional view of the internal structure of the shell provided in Embodiment 1 of the present invention;

[0049] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the hidden fixing cover of the ventilation device provided in Embodiment 1 of the present invention;

[0050] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the fixed cover of the air inlet of the housing provided in Embodiment 1 of the present invention;

[0051] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the state when the fixed structure of the air inlet and the fixed cover are not in proper rotational engagement as provided in Embodiment 1 of the present invention;

[0052] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of the state when the fixed structure of the air inlet and the fixed cover are rotated into place according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention;

[0053] Figure 11 This is a side sectional view of the ventilation device provided in Embodiment 1 of the present invention, which is connected to the inner liner via a fixed cover.

[0054] Figure 12 yes Figure 11 A magnified view of a section at point A in the middle;

[0055] Figure 13 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the ventilation device provided in Embodiment 1 of the present invention connected to the inner liner;

[0056] Figure 14 yes Figure 13 A magnified view of a section at point B in the middle;

[0057] Figure 15 This is a flowchart of the drying method for a dishwasher provided in Embodiment 2 of the present invention.

[0058] Label Explanation:

[0059] 100. Inner liner;

[0060] 1. Housing; 11. Air inlet; 12. Air outlet; 13. Mounting side plate; 131. First limiting groove; 14. Baffle; 15. Limiting component; 151. Limiting arc rib; 152. Limiting vertical rib; 16. Stop component;

[0061] 2. Cover plate; 21. First connecting seat; 211. Second rotating shaft; 22. Second limiting groove;

[0062] 3. Drive mechanism; 31. Solenoid valve; 32. Telescopic rod; 321. Second connecting seat; 3211. Third rotating shaft; 33. Transmission link; 34. Torsion spring; 341. First support leg; 342. Second support leg;

[0063] 4. Humidity detection device;

[0064] 5. First rotating shaft;

[0065] 6. Fixed cover; 61. Limiting groove; 611. Limiting base plate; 612. Limiting vertical plate; 62. Anti-rebound elastic element;

[0066] 7. Sealing ring. Detailed Implementation

[0067] 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.

[0068] In the description of this application, it should be understood that the terms "inner" and "outer", etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings, and 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, and therefore should not be construed as a limitation of this application.

[0069] 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.

[0070] In the description of this application, it should be noted that, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, the term "connection" should be interpreted broadly. For example, it can be a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; it can be a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; it can be a connection within two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this application based on the specific circumstances.

[0071] Example 1:

[0072] like Figures 1-5 As shown, this embodiment provides a venting device installed on a dishwasher. The venting device includes a housing 1, a cover plate 2, and a drive mechanism 3. The housing 1 has an air inlet 11 communicating with the inner cavity of the dishwasher's inner tub 100. One end of the housing 1 is open, forming an air outlet 12 communicating with the outside of the dishwasher's inner tub 100. The cover plate 2 is located on the housing 1; the drive mechanism 3 is located on one side of the housing 1 and is connected to the cover plate 2 to drive the cover plate 2 to close or open the air outlet 12. During the dishwasher drying process, the drive mechanism 3 drives the cover plate 2 to fully open the air outlet 12, making the entire opening at the top of the housing 1 the air outlet 12, increasing the air outlet area, improving the moisture discharge speed, and thus improving the drying effect. During the dishwasher washing process, the drive mechanism 3 drives the cover plate 2 to close the air outlet 12, reducing the loss of hot steam from the dishwasher's inner tub 100, and preventing hot steam from wetting nearby parts and cabinets. In addition, the air outlet 12 of the ventilation device is only opened by the drive mechanism 3 when the dishwasher is drying, so as to prevent foreign objects from entering the inner tub 100 through the air outlet 12 of the shell 1 and affecting the cleanliness of the dishwasher.

[0073] The ventilation device also includes a humidity detection element 4, which is located on the inner wall of the housing 1 near the air inlet 11. The humidity detection element 4 is used to detect the air humidity inside the inner liner 100 and is communicatively connected to the drive mechanism 3. By setting the humidity detection element 4 on the inner wall of the housing 1 near the air inlet 11 to detect the air humidity inside the inner liner 100 and communicating with the drive mechanism 3, when the air humidity inside the inner liner 100 meets the required humidity value for drying, the drive mechanism 3 then drives the cover plate 2 to close the air outlet 12, ensuring drying performance. Simultaneously, it ensures that the air outlet 12 of the ventilation device is only opened during the drying process, preventing foreign objects from entering the inner liner 100 through the air outlet 12 of the housing 1 and affecting the dishwasher's cleanliness.

[0074] Humidity detection component 4 is a humidity sensor. The humidity sensor and drive mechanism 3 are connected via communication with the dishwasher's control unit. Specifically, the humidity value detected by the humidity sensor is sent to the dishwasher's control unit via wireless connection methods such as Bluetooth or Wi-Fi. The drive mechanism 3 is electrically connected to the dishwasher's control unit. The control unit compares the received humidity value with a set humidity value and then controls the drive mechanism 3 to operate based on the comparison result. The set humidity value is the humidity level at which the interior of the inner tank 100 is deemed to meet the drying requirements. When the humidity value in the inner tank 100 is less than the set humidity value, it is determined that the interior of the inner tank 100 has met the drying requirements, and the drive mechanism 3 can be controlled to rotate and close the air outlet 12. When the humidity value in the inner tank 100 is greater than or equal to the set humidity value, it is determined that the interior of the inner tank 100 has not yet met the drying requirements, and the dishwasher's control unit will not control the drive mechanism 3 to operate.

[0075] Specifically, the shell 1 is rectangular, with the top of the shell 1 serving as an air outlet 12 and the air inlet 11 located at the bottom of the shell 1, communicating with the inner cavity of the inner liner 100. The hot and humid air inside the inner liner 100 flows upwards after exiting through the outlet, facilitating faster exhaust of the hot and humid air. Furthermore, designating the entire top of the rectangular shell 1 as an air outlet 12 increases the exhaust area for the hot and humid air, further improving the drying rate and drying effect.

[0076] In one embodiment, the air inlet 11 is located on the side wall at the bottom of the housing 1, and the humidity detection element 4 is located on the inner wall of the housing 1 opposite to the air inlet 11. By placing the air inlet 11 on the side wall at the bottom of the housing 1, rather than at the bottom, during the washing process, water in the inner tank 100 enters the housing 1 through the air inlet 11 on the side of the housing 1. Most of the water is blocked by the inner wall opposite to the air inlet 11 and then flows downwards along the inner wall of the housing 1, without splashing onto the cover plate 2. This prevents water droplets on the cover plate 2 from falling and wetting nearby components or cabinets after the air outlet 12 is opened. The humidity detection element 4, located on the inner wall of the housing 1 opposite to the air inlet 11, allows moisture from the inner tank 100 to directly contact the humidity detection element 4, resulting in more accurate humidity detection. Based on the humidity value detected by the humidity detection element 4, the drive mechanism 3 is controlled to close the air outlet 12 of the cover plate 2, ensuring a drying effect.

[0077] Furthermore, such as Figure 6As shown, multiple baffles 14 are spaced apart along the height direction inside the housing 1. These baffles 14 are inclined upwards towards the center along the inner wall of the housing 1, with adjacent baffles 14 staggered. The distance between the baffle 14 near the air outlet 12 and the inner wall of the housing 1 is greater than the distance between the baffle 14 near the air inlet 11 and the inner wall of the housing 1. During the dishwasher's washing cycle, these baffles 14 can block water droplets entering the housing 1 from different directions, causing some droplets to fall to the bottom of the housing 1, while a small portion of unblocked droplets continue upwards and concentrate in the middle of the housing 1. The baffle 14 near the air outlet 12, positioned closer to the middle of the housing 1, provides better water droplet blocking.

[0078] In one embodiment, continue to refer to Figures 2-4 The cover plate 2 is connected to one end of the air outlet 12 via a first rotating shaft 5. The end of the cover plate 2 near the first rotating shaft 5 extends away from the housing 1. The drive mechanism 3 includes a drive member and a telescopic rod 32. The drive member is connected to one end of the telescopic rod 32, and the other end of the telescopic rod 32 is rotatably connected to the end of the cover plate 2 near the first rotating shaft 5. The drive member is used to drive the telescopic rod 32 to retract, thereby causing the cover plate 2 to rotate forward around the first rotating shaft 5 to open the air outlet 12, or to drive the telescopic rod 32 to extend, thereby causing the cover plate 2 to rotate in the opposite direction around the first rotating shaft 5 to close the air outlet 12. By driving the telescopic rod 32, the drive member applies an upward or downward force to the end of the cover plate 2 protruding from the air outlet 12, thereby enabling the cover plate 2 to rotate relative to the housing 1 via the first rotating shaft 5.

[0079] The length of the cover plate 2 is greater than the length of the air outlet 12. The first rotating shaft 5 is located on one side of the air outlet 12. The end of the cover plate 2 away from the first rotating shaft 5 is flush with the end of the air outlet 12, and the end near the first rotating shaft 5 protrudes from the other end of the air outlet 12. The telescopic rod 32 is connected to the middle of the protruding end of the cover plate 2. The driving component is fixed to the outer wall of the housing 1 on the side near the first rotating shaft 5. This arrangement allows the driving component located on the outer wall of the housing 1 to drive the telescopic rod 32 to extend and retract, thereby enabling the cover plate 2 to rotate. The connection between the telescopic rod 32 and the cover plate 2 does not affect the cover plate 2's ability to close the air outlet 12.

[0080] Of course, in other embodiments, the first rotating shaft 5 can be driven to rotate by a driving component to achieve the rotation of the cover plate 2. Alternatively, the driving component can directly drive the cover plate 2 to rise and fall via the telescopic rod 32 to open or close the air outlet 12.

[0081] In one embodiment, the driving component includes a solenoid valve 31 connected to a telescopic rod 32. The solenoid valve 31 is energized or de-energized to control the retraction or extension of the telescopic rod 32. When the solenoid valve 31 is de-energized, the telescopic rod 32 is in the extended state, and the cover plate 2 is not subjected to downward pulling force from the telescopic rod 32, thus closing the air outlet 12. When the solenoid valve 31 is energized, the coil inside the solenoid valve 31 is energized, generating magnetic force. The telescopic rod 32 is magnetically attracted and retracts, pulling the cover plate 2 downward. The cover plate 2 rotates relative to the housing 1 via the first rotating shaft 5, thereby opening the air outlet 12.

[0082] In one embodiment, the drive mechanism 3 further includes a transmission link 33, one end of which is rotatably connected to the telescopic rod 32, and the other end is rotatably connected to the cover plate 2. By setting the transmission link 33 to connect the cover plate 2 and the telescopic rod 32, the rotation angle of the cover plate 2 is increased during the process of the telescopic rod 32 driving the cover plate 2 to rotate, thereby increasing the opening area of ​​the air outlet 12 and further ensuring the rate of moisture discharge.

[0083] Specifically, the cover plate 2 is provided with a first connecting seat 21, and a second rotating shaft 211 is provided inside the first connecting seat 21; the end of the telescopic rod 32 away from the driving component is provided with a second connecting seat 321, and a third rotating shaft 3211 is provided inside the second connecting seat 321. The second rotating shaft 211 and the third rotating shaft 3211 are both arranged parallel to the first rotating shaft 5. One end of the transmission connecting rod 33 is rotatably connected to the second rotating shaft 211, and the other end is rotatably connected to the third rotating shaft 3211. The first connecting seat 21 is used to support the second rotating shaft 211, and the second connecting seat 321 is used to support the third rotating shaft 3211, ensuring that the rotation direction of the transmission connecting rod 33 is consistent with the rotation direction of the cover plate 2.

[0084] The first connecting seat 21 and the second connecting seat 321 each include two spaced-apart connecting lugs. The second rotating shaft 211 and the third rotating shaft 3211 are both connected between the two connecting lugs. The two connecting lugs also limit the transmission connecting rod 33, preventing excessive axial displacement of the transmission connecting rod 33 during rotation, which could cause the cover plate 2 to shift and fail to completely seal the air outlet 12.

[0085] Of course, in other embodiments, the driving element can also be a linear driving element such as an electric actuator or a linear motor.

[0086] In one embodiment, the driving mechanism 3 further includes an elastic component disposed on the first rotating shaft 5. One end of the elastic component abuts against the cover plate 2, and the other end abuts against the housing 1. The elastic component always has a tendency to drive the cover plate 2 to rotate in the opposite direction around the first rotating shaft 5. When the telescopic rod 32 retracts to open the air outlet 12, the elastic component is compressed by the squeezing force of the cover plate 2. When the telescopic rod 32 extends to close the air outlet 12, the elastic restoring force of the elastic component drives the cover plate 2 to rotate in the opposite direction around the first rotating shaft 5, which can ensure that the cover plate 2 completely closes the air outlet 12. After the cover plate 2 closes the air outlet 12, the elastic component still has a tendency to drive the cover plate 2 to rotate in the opposite direction around the first rotating shaft 5 to ensure the stability of the air outlet 12 closure.

[0087] Specifically, the elastic component includes two torsion springs 34, which are respectively located at both ends of the first rotating shaft 5. The torsion springs 34 are sleeved on the first rotating shaft 5. The first leg 341 of the torsion spring 34 abuts against the side wall of the housing 1, and the second leg 342 of the torsion spring 34 abuts against the bottom surface of the cover plate 2. By setting one torsion spring 34 at each end of the first rotating shaft 5, the two torsion springs 34 control the cover plate 2 to prevent it from deflecting left or right under the drive of the transmission link 33, ensuring that the cover plate 2 is centered and closes the air outlet 12, further ensuring the complete closure of the air outlet 12.

[0088] Of course, in other embodiments, the elastic component can also be a torsion spring 34 with a large elastic deformation force. The force of the torsion spring 34 is sufficient to completely seal the air outlet 12 with the cover plate 2.

[0089] Specifically, mounting side plates 13 are provided on both opposite sides of the housing 1, and the two ends of the first rotating shaft 5 are rotatably connected to the two mounting side plates 13 respectively. A first limiting groove 131 is provided on the mounting side plate 13, the bottom of the first limiting groove 131 is parallel to the side wall where the drive mechanism 3 is located, and the first support leg 341 is placed in the first limiting groove 131; a second limiting groove 22 is provided on both opposite sides of the cover plate 2, the bottom of the second limiting groove 22 is parallel to the bottom surface of the cover plate 2, and the second support leg 342 is placed in the second limiting groove 22. When the solenoid valve 31 is energized, the telescopic rod 32 is magnetically attracted and retracts, driving the transmission connecting rod 33 to pull the cover plate 2 downward. When the cover plate 2 rotates to open the air outlet 12, the cover plate 2 moves towards the first limiting groove 131, compressing the second support leg 342 in the second limiting groove 22, and the torsion spring 34 is subjected to torsional force. When the solenoid valve 31 is de-energized, the telescopic rod 32 extends, and the cover plate 2 is not subjected to the tension of the transmission link 33. Under the action of the elastic restoring force of the torsion spring 34, the second support leg 342 drives the cover plate 2 to flip to close the air outlet 12. The two torsion springs 34 work together to ensure that the cover plate 2 will not move axially during the flipping process, thus ensuring the complete closure of the air outlet 12.

[0090] In one embodiment, such as Figures 7-11As shown, the venting device also includes a fixing cover 6. A fixing structure is provided circumferentially around the air inlet 11. The fixing structure cooperates with the fixing cover 6 to seal the shell 1 and the inner liner 100. The fixing structure includes a limiting member 15 and a stop member 16. The fixing cover 6 is provided circumferentially with a limiting groove 61 and a check-back elastic member 62. The fixing cover 6 is screwed from the inside of the inner liner 100 relative to the fixing structure on the outside of the inner liner 100, allowing the limiting member 15 to abut against the limiting groove 61, and the check-back elastic member 62 to abut against the stop member 16, thus restricting the fixing cover 6 from rotating in the opposite direction. The venting device, by setting the fixing cover 6 and the fixing structure, achieves a limiting and locking connection between the air inlet 11 and the inner liner 100. Compared to the existing threaded connection installation method, this method is more convenient for installation and disassembly, improving the efficiency of disassembly and maintenance and the reliability of the connection.

[0091] Specifically, the limiting member 15 includes a limiting arc rib 151 and a limiting vertical rib 152, with the limiting vertical rib 152 located at one end of the limiting arc rib 151. The limiting groove 61 includes a limiting base plate 611 and a limiting vertical plate 612. The limiting arc rib 151 is inserted into the limiting groove 61, with the end of the limiting arc rib 151 away from the limiting vertical rib 152 abutting against the limiting vertical plate 612, and the limiting vertical rib 152 abutting against the end of the limiting base plate 611 away from the limiting vertical plate 612.

[0092] The fixed cover 6 is circumferentially spaced with multiple limiting grooves 61 and a check valve elastic element 62. The fixing structure includes multiple limiting elements 15 and a stop element 16 spaced apart. The multiple limiting elements 15 and the multiple limiting grooves 61 are matched one-to-one to ensure the reliability of the connection. After the multiple limiting elements 15 are engaged with the multiple limiting grooves 61, the fixed cover 6 can no longer rotate. At this time, the check valve elastic element 62 and the stop element 16 just abut against each other, so that the fixed cover 6 cannot be rotated back in the opposite direction. Thus, the fixed cover 6 and the air inlet 11 tightly clamp the inner liner 100, realizing the fixation of the venting device and the inner liner 100. When it is necessary to disassemble the venting device, the operator manually pulls the check valve elastic element 62 upward; at the same time, rotates the fixed cover 6 in the opposite direction, so that the limiting elements 15 are unscrewed from the limiting grooves 61, and the fixed cover 6 can be removed from the inner liner 100, and the venting device can be removed from the dishwasher.

[0093] It should be noted that the inner liner 100 is made of a very thin stainless steel plate. When installing the venting device, the fixing cover 6 is located inside the inner liner 100, and the shell 1 is located outside the inner liner 100. After the fixing structure of the fixing cover 6 and the shell 1 is tightened, the inner liner 100 is clamped between the fixing cover 6 and the air inlet 11 of the shell 1. The anti-rebound elastic element 62 is made of plastic and has a certain degree of elasticity, which is sufficient for the operator to manually lift it.

[0094] Furthermore, such as Figure 11 and Figure 12As shown, a sealing ring 7 is also provided around the air inlet 11. The sealing ring 7 is located on the outer ring of the limiting member 15 and the stop member 16. During the process of fixing the cover 6 to the fixing structure of the housing 1, the sealing ring 7 is subjected to axial force, so that the air inlet 11 of the housing 1 is sealed with the side wall of the inner liner 100 to prevent water leakage.

[0095] like Figure 13 and Figure 14 As shown, this embodiment also provides a dishwasher, including an inner tub 100 and the aforementioned venting device, which is detachably connected to the top side of the inner tub 100. Hot and humid air inside the inner tub 100 flows upwards. Positioning the venting device near the top of the inner tub 100 facilitates faster exhaust of hot and humid air, further improving the dishwasher's drying performance. Simultaneously, it prevents the loss of hot steam during washing and avoids hot steam wetting nearby components and cabinets. It also prevents foreign objects from entering the inner tub 100 through the air outlet 12 of the housing 1, thus affecting the dishwasher's cleanliness. The drive mechanism 3 is communicatively connected to the humidity detection element 4. When the humidity detection element 4 detects that the humidity inside the dishwasher has reached the drying requirement, the drive mechanism 3 automatically closes the air outlet 12 of the housing 1. When the humidity inside the dishwasher has not reached the drying requirement, the drive mechanism 3 delays closing the air outlet 12 of the housing 1 until the humidity inside the dishwasher reaches the drying requirement, at which point the drive mechanism 3 drives the cover plate 2 to close the air outlet 12, ensuring the dishwasher's drying performance.

[0096] Example 2:

[0097] like Figure 15 As shown, this embodiment provides a dishwasher control method, applied to the dishwasher provided in Embodiment 1. The dishwasher control method includes the following steps:

[0098] S10. When the dishwasher is washing, the drive mechanism 3 does not work, and the cover plate 2 closes the air outlet 12.

[0099] The dishwasher's control unit contains a control program, which includes a washing program and a drying program. During the washing program, the solenoid valve 31 is de-energized, and the cover 2 closes the vent 12. The hot steam in the dishwasher's inner tub 100 will not escape through the vent 12 of the ventilation device, reducing heat loss and thus reducing washing time and saving energy.

[0100] S20. When the dishwasher enters the drying program from the washing program, the control drive mechanism 3 drives the cover plate 2 to open the air outlet 12, and at the same time, the humidity detection element 4 monitors the humidity value inside the inner tank 100 in real time.

[0101] When the dishwasher transitions from the washing program to the drying program, the dishwasher's control unit energizes the solenoid valve 31. When the solenoid valve 31 is energized, a magnetic force is generated in the energized coil, causing the telescopic rod 32 to retract. This, in turn, drives the transmission link 33 to apply a downward pulling force to one end of the cover plate 2. The cover plate 2 rotates, compressing the second support leg 342 of the torsion spring 34 at both ends of the first rotating shaft 5, opening the air outlet 12. The moisture in the inner tank 100 can then be discharged from the air outlet 12, increasing the rate of moisture discharge and thus improving the drying effect.

[0102] The dishwasher control method provided in this embodiment opens the air outlet 12 of the housing 1 during drying, and monitors the humidity value inside the inner tank 100 in real time through a humidity sensor, so that when the humidity value inside the inner tank 100 reaches the drying requirement, the air outlet 12 is closed.

[0103] S30. If the humidity detection element 4 detects that the humidity value inside the inner liner 100 is less than the set humidity value, the control drive mechanism 3 drives the cover plate 2 to close the air outlet 12, and waits for the next drying program to start.

[0104] The dishwasher's control program has a pre-set drying time. Once the drying time is up, the dishwasher's drying program ends, and the dishwasher automatically stops working. In this embodiment, if the humidity sensor detects that the humidity value inside the inner tank 100 is lower than the set humidity value, meaning the drying requirements have been met, the dishwasher's control unit can control the solenoid valve 31 to cut off the power, sealing the air outlet 12. This not only ensures the drying effect but also saves energy. Furthermore, after the dishwasher stops working, it prevents small animals such as cockroaches and ants from entering the dishwasher through the air outlet 12 and affecting its cleanliness.

[0105] S31ˊ If the drying process has ended, and the humidity detection element 4 detects that the humidity value inside the inner liner 100 is still greater than or equal to the set humidity value, the control drive mechanism 3 will keep the air outlet 12 open for a set time T.

[0106] S32ˊ After a set time T, the humidity detection element 4 detects that the humidity value inside the inner liner 100 is still greater than or equal to the set humidity value, and controls the drive mechanism 3 to keep the air outlet 12 open for the set time T.

[0107] S33ˊ, repeat this cycle until the humidity detection element 4 detects that the humidity value inside the inner tank 100 is less than the set humidity value, then control the drive mechanism 3 to drive the cover plate 2 to close the air outlet 12, and wait for the next drying program to start.

[0108] If the humidity value detected by the humidity sensor inside the inner tub 100 still does not meet the drying requirements after the drying cycle of the dishwasher has ended, the air outlet 12 can be closed for a delayed period. This allows excess hot and humid air in the inner tub 100 to still be discharged through the air outlet 12 of the housing 1 after the drying cycle of the dishwasher has ended, ensuring the drying effect of the dishwasher. The setting time can be determined by those skilled in the art based on experiments or experience.

[0109] The dishwasher control method provided in this embodiment, during the washing cycle, prevents the drive mechanism 3 from operating, and the cover plate 2 closes the air outlet 12 to avoid the loss of hot steam from the inner tub 100, thus extending the washing time and saving energy. When the dishwasher transitions from the washing program to the drying program, the drive mechanism 3 opens the air outlet 12 of the venting device to ensure the speed of moisture removal, improving drying efficiency and effect. During the drying program, the dishwasher control unit flexibly controls the solenoid valve 31 to de-energize and close the air outlet 12 based on the actual humidity value of the inner tub 100 detected by the humidity sensor. This ensures both the drying effect and prevents foreign objects from entering the dishwasher through the air outlet 12 of the housing 1, affecting the dishwasher's cleanliness; it also saves energy. In other words, the air outlet 12 is only opened during the drying program, ensuring both the drying effect and cleanliness of the dishwasher while saving energy.

[0110] 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.

[0111] 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. A ventilation device, installed on a dishwasher, characterized in that, include: The housing (1) is provided with an air inlet (11) that communicates with the inner cavity of the dishwasher's inner tub (100), and one end of the housing (1) is provided as an opening, which forms an air outlet (12) that communicates with the outside of the dishwasher's inner tub (100). A cover plate (2) is provided on the housing (1); A drive mechanism (3) is connected to the cover plate (2) and is used to drive the cover plate (2) to close or open the air outlet (12).

2. The breathable device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The cover plate (2) is connected to one end of the air outlet (12) via a first rotating shaft (5), and the end of the cover plate (2) near the first rotating shaft (5) extends away from the housing (1); The driving mechanism (3) includes a driving member and a telescopic rod (32). The driving member is connected to one end of the telescopic rod (32), and the other end of the telescopic rod (32) is rotatably connected to one end of the cover plate (2) near the first rotating shaft (5). The driving member is used to drive the telescopic rod (32) to retract so as to drive the cover plate (2) to rotate in the forward direction around the first rotating shaft (5) to open the air outlet (12), or to drive the telescopic rod (32) to extend so as to drive the cover plate (2) to rotate in the reverse direction around the first rotating shaft (5) to close the air outlet (12).

3. The breathable device according to claim 2, characterized in that, The drive mechanism (3) also includes a transmission link (33), one end of which is rotatably connected to the telescopic rod (32), and the other end is rotatably connected to the cover plate (2); The cover plate (2) is provided with a first connecting seat (21), and a second rotating shaft (211) is provided inside the first connecting seat (21); the end of the telescopic rod (32) away from the driving member is provided with a second connecting seat (321), and a third rotating shaft (3211) is provided inside the second connecting seat (321). The second rotating shaft (211) and the third rotating shaft (3211) are both parallel to the first rotating shaft (5). One end of the transmission connecting rod (33) is rotatably connected to the second rotating shaft (211), and the other end is rotatably connected to the third rotating shaft (3211).

4. The breathable device according to claim 2, characterized in that, The driving mechanism (3) further includes an elastic component, which is disposed on the first rotating shaft (5). One end of the elastic component abuts against the cover plate (2) and the other end abuts against the housing (1). The elastic component always has the tendency to drive the cover plate (2) to rotate in the opposite direction around the first rotating shaft (5).

5. The breathable device according to claim 4, characterized in that, The elastic component includes two torsion springs (34), which are respectively disposed at both ends of the first rotating shaft (5). The torsion springs (34) are sleeved on the first rotating shaft (5). The first leg (341) of the torsion spring (34) abuts against the side wall of the housing (1), and the second leg (342) of the torsion spring (34) abuts against the bottom surface of the cover plate (2).

6. The breathable device according to claim 5, characterized in that, The housing (1) has mounting side plates (13) on both sides, and the two ends of the first rotating shaft (5) are rotatably connected to the two mounting side plates (13) respectively. The mounting side plate (13) is provided with a first limiting groove (131), the bottom of the first limiting groove (131) is parallel to the side wall where the driving mechanism (3) is located, and the first support leg (341) is placed in the first limiting groove (131); the cover plate (2) is provided with a second limiting groove (22) on both opposite sides, the bottom of the second limiting groove (22) is parallel to the bottom surface of the cover plate (2), and the second support leg (342) is placed in the second limiting groove (22).

7. The breathable device according to claim 2, characterized in that, The driving component includes a solenoid valve (31), which is connected to the telescopic rod (32). The solenoid valve (31) can control the telescopic rod (32) to retract or extend when it is powered on or off.

8. The breathable device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The ventilation device also includes a fixing cover (6), and the air inlet (11) is provided with a fixing structure in the circumference. The fixing structure cooperates with the fixing cover (6) to seal the shell (1) and the inner liner (100). The fixing structure includes a limiting member (15) and a stop member (16); the fixing cover (6) is provided with a limiting groove (61) and a check elastic member (62) in the circumferential direction. The fixing cover (6) is screwed from the inside of the inner liner (100) relative to the fixing structure on the outside of the inner liner (100), so that the limiting member (15) abuts against the limiting groove (61), and the check elastic member (62) abuts against the stop member (16), which can restrict the fixing cover (6) from rotating in the opposite direction.

9. The breathable device according to claim 8, characterized in that, The limiting member (15) includes a limiting arc rib (151) and a limiting vertical rib (152), wherein the limiting vertical rib (152) is disposed at one end of the limiting arc rib (151); The limiting groove (61) includes a limiting base plate (611) and a limiting vertical plate (612). The limiting arc rib (151) is inserted into the limiting groove (61). The end of the limiting arc rib (151) away from the limiting vertical rib (152) abuts against the limiting vertical plate (612). The limiting vertical rib (152) abuts against the end of the limiting base plate (611) away from the limiting vertical plate (612).

10. The breathable device according to any one of claims 1-9, characterized in that, The ventilation device also includes a humidity detection element (4), which is located on the inner wall of the housing (1) near the air inlet (11) and is used to detect the air humidity inside the inner liner (100). The humidity detection element (4) is communicatively connected to the drive mechanism (3).

11. A dishwasher, characterized in that, It includes an inner liner (100) and a ventilating device as described in claim 10, the ventilating device being detachably connected to the top side of the inner liner (100).

12. A control method for a dishwasher, characterized in that, The control method for the dishwasher as described in claim 11 includes the following steps: When the dishwasher is washing, the drive mechanism (3) does not work, and the cover plate (2) closes the air outlet (12); When the dishwasher enters the drying program from the washing program, the drive mechanism (3) is controlled to drive the cover plate (2) to open the air outlet (12); at the same time, the humidity detection device (4) monitors the humidity value inside the inner tank (100) in real time. If the humidity detection device (4) detects that the humidity value inside the inner liner (100) is less than the set humidity value, it controls the drive mechanism (3) to drive the cover plate (2) to close the air outlet (12) until the next drying program is started. If the drying process has ended, and the humidity detection device (4) detects that the humidity value inside the inner liner (100) is still greater than or equal to the set humidity value, the drive mechanism (3) is controlled to keep the air outlet (12) open for a set time T. After the set time T, the humidity detection device (4) detects that the humidity value inside the inner liner (100) is still greater than or equal to the set humidity value, and controls the drive mechanism (3) to keep the air outlet (12) open for the set time T. This cycle continues until the humidity detection device (4) detects that the humidity value inside the inner liner (100) is less than the set humidity value, and then controls the drive mechanism (3) to drive the cover plate (2) to close the air outlet (12), waiting for the next drying program to start.

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