Laundry treating apparatus, external ultrasonic cleaning device, and cleaning method
By setting through holes and sealing parts on the outer drum of the washing machine, combined with an external high-power ultrasonic cleaning device, the problems of stain accumulation and high cost in washing machines are solved, achieving efficient and low-cost cleaning results, which is convenient for commercial application.
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Applications(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- QINGDAO HAIER WASHING MASCH CO LTD
- Filing Date
- 2025-01-17
- Publication Date
- 2026-07-24
AI Technical Summary
Existing washing machines are prone to accumulating stains under high-frequency use, leading to clothing contamination. Furthermore, high-power ultrasonic cleaners are expensive, making them unacceptable to users and hindering their commercial application.
Design a garment cleaning device that uses through holes and sealing components on the outer drum, along with an external high-power ultrasonic cleaning device, to clean both the outer and inner drums, reducing costs and improving cleaning effectiveness.
It enables efficient cleaning of washing machines without disassembling them, reducing costs, facilitating commercial promotion, meeting user needs, and avoiding waste of water and electricity.
Smart Images

Figure CN122446486A_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] This invention relates to the field of clothing processing technology, and in particular to a clothing processing device, an external ultrasonic cleaning device, and a cleaning method. Background Technology
[0002] With the development of the social economy, various colleges and universities have equipped their students with commercial washing machines. These washing machines use an online reservation and payment model, and are very popular among students due to their convenience and low cost (1-2 yuan per use).
[0003] Due to the concentrated dormitories and dense population of various colleges and universities, these washing machines are used exceptionally frequently, often more than 12 times a day, almost 30 times more frequently than the average household. Besides the high frequency of use, students are also physically active, resulting in a lot of sebum, sweat, and other stains on their clothes. These stains easily form an adhesive-like substance, adhering to lint and other dirt between the inner and outer drums of the washing machine. Over time, this can accumulate into a thick layer, making it impossible for the dirt to adhere to the drum surfaces. During washing, this dirt breaks off and seeps through the gaps in the seals between the drums, eventually contaminating the already washed clothes inside the drum, causing severe soiling. For the sake of students' health, many schools require washing machine operators to disassemble and thoroughly clean the machines. However, to ensure stable operation and avoid affecting student use, disassembly and cleaning are generally not feasible.
[0004] In industry, ultrasonic cleaning has been widely used, but the actual application of integrating ultrasonic cleaners into washing machines is rare. The main reason is that low-power ultrasonic cleaners have poor cleaning effects, while high-power ultrasonic cleaners are very expensive. Moreover, ultrasonic cleaners are not used frequently, which makes them unacceptable to users or customers, thus preventing their commercial application. Summary of the Invention
[0005] The purpose of this invention is to provide a garment processing device, an external ultrasonic cleaning device, and a cleaning method that can solve the problem that high-power ultrasonic cleaners are costly and unacceptable to users or customers.
[0006] To achieve this objective, the present invention adopts the following technical solution:
[0007] A garment processing device, comprising:
[0008] The housing is equipped with a cleaning port.
[0009] An outer cylinder is disposed inside the housing. The outer cylinder has a through hole, through which the ultrasonic transmitter of the external ultrasonic cleaning device can extend into the outer cylinder to clean the inside of the outer cylinder.
[0010] As an optional solution for the above-mentioned garment processing equipment, the garment processing equipment further includes a sealing component, which is sealed within the through hole. The sealing component has a cut, which allows the ultrasonic transmitter of an external ultrasonic cleaning device to pass through and seal with the ultrasonic transmitter. The cut can be sealed closed when the sealing component is not subjected to external force.
[0011] As an alternative to the above-mentioned clothing processing equipment, the cross-sectional area of the through hole gradually decreases from the outer side to the inner side of the outer cylinder;
[0012] The sealing component includes a sealing body, which is sealed in the through hole. The shape of the sealing body is the same as that of the through hole, and the sealing body is interference-fitted with the through hole.
[0013] As an alternative to the aforementioned garment processing equipment, the sealing component is provided with a sealing groove, and the cut is provided on the bottom surface of the sealing groove. The sealing groove is used to seal a portion of the structure that accommodates the external ultrasonic cleaning device.
[0014] As an alternative to the aforementioned garment processing equipment, the cross-sectional area of the sealing groove gradually decreases from the outer side to the inner side of the outer cylinder.
[0015] As an optional solution to the aforementioned garment processing equipment, the garment processing equipment further includes:
[0016] The detection circuit includes a first conductive element and a second conductive element disposed on the sealing element. The first conductive element and the second conductive element can make conductive contact with the external ultrasonic cleaning device to make the detection circuit conductive.
[0017] A power supply module is provided, which can be electrically connected to the first conductive element and the second conductive element respectively, to supply power to the external ultrasonic cleaning device.
[0018] As an alternative to the aforementioned garment processing equipment, the housing includes:
[0019] Front panel, wherein the cleaning port is provided on the front panel;
[0020] An outer hatch is movably connected to the front panel to open or close the cleaning port;
[0021] A door lock assembly is disposed on the front panel. The door lock assembly can fix the outer door in the position where the washing port is closed, and can release the fixation of the outer door after the garment processing equipment receives an opening command.
[0022] As an alternative to the aforementioned garment processing equipment, the door lock assembly includes a magnet and a coil. The magnet is used to attract the outer hatch, and the coil is arranged around the magnet. When the coil is energized, it can generate a magnetic field that cancels out the magnetic field of the magnet.
[0023] As an alternative to the aforementioned garment processing equipment, the door lock assembly further includes an elastic base, which is fixed to the front plate, and the magnet and the coil are both disposed within the elastic base.
[0024] As an alternative to the aforementioned garment processing equipment, the front panel includes:
[0025] The front panel body is provided with the cleaning port;
[0026] The mounting component is located on the back of the front panel body. The bottom end of the outer hatch is rotatably connected to the mounting component. The door lock assembly is located on the mounting component and inside the top of the cleaning port.
[0027] An external ultrasonic cleaning device is provided for use in conjunction with the aforementioned garment processing equipment. The external ultrasonic cleaning device comprises:
[0028] An external body that can pass through the cleaning port;
[0029] An ultrasonic transmitter is used to emit ultrasonic waves.
[0030] A movable component is movably connected to the external body. The movable component is connected to the ultrasonic transmitter. The movable component can drive the ultrasonic transmitter through the through hole or be pulled out of the through hole.
[0031] As an optional embodiment of the aforementioned external ultrasonic cleaning device, the external main body includes:
[0032] A fixed cylinder, wherein the movable component and the ultrasonic transmitter are disposed inside the fixed cylinder;
[0033] A fixing component is movably disposed in the fixing cylinder. The fixing component is linked with the moving component. When the moving component drives the ultrasonic transmitting end to extend into the through hole, the fixing component is detachably connected to the housing under the action of the moving component.
[0034] A reset component connects the fixing component and the fixing cylinder, and the reset component can drive the fixing component to reset so as to detach it from the housing.
[0035] As an optional solution for the aforementioned external ultrasonic cleaning device, the fixing component includes a limiting claw, one end of which is rotatably connected to the fixing cylinder. The moving component can move linearly relative to the fixing cylinder to push the limiting claw to rotate in the direction of engaging with the housing. The resetting component can drive the limiting claw to rotate in the direction of disengaging from the housing.
[0036] As an alternative to the aforementioned external ultrasonic cleaning device, the movable component is threadedly engaged with the fixed cylinder.
[0037] As an alternative to the above-mentioned external ultrasonic cleaning device, the movable component includes a sealed end, the ultrasonic transmitter is disposed at the sealed end, and the sealed end can abut against the clothing processing device after the ultrasonic transmitter passes through the through hole.
[0038] The sealed end includes a conductive structure electrically connected to the ultrasonic transmitter, the conductive structure being used for electrical connection to the garment processing equipment.
[0039] A cleaning method, employing the aforementioned external ultrasonic cleaning device and applied to the aforementioned garment processing equipment, the cleaning method comprising:
[0040] After the ultrasonic transmitter of the external ultrasonic cleaning device extends into the outer cylinder through the through hole, the cleaning solution is injected into the outer cylinder to the preset water level.
[0041] Start the external ultrasonic cleaning device and continue for a preset duration;
[0042] Start drainage.
[0043] As an alternative to the above cleaning method, the method further includes the following step before injecting the washing solution into the outer cylinder:
[0044] Obtain the cleaning mode, which includes full cleaning and regular cleaning;
[0045] Based on the washing mode, the preset water level and the recommended working state of the inner drum in the clothing processing device are obtained. The recommended working state includes whether to rotate, the rotation speed, and the rotation duration.
[0046] The beneficial effects of this invention are:
[0047] The garment processing equipment provided by this invention only requires the addition of a cleaning port, through hole, and sealing component to cooperate with a high-power external ultrasonic cleaning device for cleaning, meeting the needs of users or customers to clean garment processing equipment regularly. Moreover, the high-power external ultrasonic cleaning device is not fixed on a single garment processing device, which greatly reduces costs, makes it easy for operators to accept, and facilitates commercial application and promotion.
[0048] The external ultrasonic cleaning device provided by this invention can be used in conjunction with the above-mentioned clothing processing equipment, which reduces costs, makes it easier for operators to accept, and facilitates commercial application and promotion.
[0049] The cleaning method provided by this invention uses the aforementioned external ultrasonic cleaning device and cleans the aforementioned clothing processing equipment. It is easy to operate and has a good cleaning effect.
[0050] This cleaning method includes a comprehensive cleaning mode and a regular cleaning mode, which can meet different cleaning needs and avoid waste of water and electricity. Attached Figure Description
[0051] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the clothing processing device provided in Embodiment 1 of the present invention;
[0052] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the outer cylinder provided in Embodiment 1 of the present invention;
[0053] Figure 3 This is a cross-sectional view of the outer cylinder and the sealing component provided in Embodiment 1 of the present invention;
[0054] Figure 4 yes Figure 1 A cross-sectional view along line AA with the outer and middle hatches closed;
[0055] Figure 5 yes Figure 1 A cross-sectional view along line AA with the outer and middle hatches open;
[0056] Figure 6 yes Figure 1 BB-direction sectional view with the outer and middle hatches open;
[0057] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the external ultrasonic cleaning device provided in Embodiment 1 of the present invention;
[0058] Figure 8 This is a first structural schematic diagram of the external ultrasonic cleaning device provided in Embodiment 1 of the present invention when it is used in conjunction with a clothing processing device;
[0059] Figure 9 This is a second structural schematic diagram of the external ultrasonic cleaning device provided in Embodiment 1 of the present invention when used in conjunction with a clothing processing device;
[0060] Figure 10 This is a third structural diagram of the external ultrasonic cleaning device provided in Embodiment 1 of the present invention when used in conjunction with a clothing processing device.
[0061] In the picture:
[0062] 110. Housing; 111. Front panel; 1111. Front panel body; 1112. Mounting component; 11121. First bracket; 11122. Clearance opening; 112. Outer hatch; 1121. Door body; 1122. Second bracket; 113. Door lock assembly; 1131. Magnet; 1132. Coil; 1133. Elastic matrix; 120. Machine door; 130. Outer cylinder; 131. Cylinder body; 132. Heating chamber; 1321. Through hole; 140. Sealing component; 141. Sealing body; 1411. Cutout; 1412. Sealing groove; 142. Fixing flange; 150. Detection return 151. First conductive element; 152. Second conductive element; 160. Control component; 200. External ultrasonic cleaning device; 210. External main body; 211. Fixing cylinder; 2111. Clearance hole; 212. Fixing component; 2121. Connecting part; 21211. Abutting arc surface; 2122. Limiting claw; 220. Ultrasonic transmitting end; 230. Moving component; 231. Handheld part; 232. Moving rod; 233. First mating part; 234. Second mating part; 235. Sealing end; 2351. First frustum; 2352. Second frustum; 2353. Third frustum. Detailed Implementation
[0063] The present invention will now be described in further detail with reference to the accompanying drawings and embodiments. It should be understood that the specific embodiments described herein are merely illustrative of the invention and not intended to limit it. Furthermore, it should be noted that, for ease of description, the accompanying drawings show only the parts relevant to the present invention, and not all of the structures.
[0064] In the description of this invention, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "connected," "linked," and "fixed" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral part; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; they can refer to the internal communication of two components or the interaction between two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this invention based on the specific circumstances.
[0065] In this invention, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, "above" or "below" the second feature can include direct contact between the first and second features, or contact between the first and second features through another feature between them. Furthermore, "above," "over," and "on top" of the second feature includes the first feature directly above or diagonally above the second feature, or simply indicates that the first feature is at a higher horizontal level than the second feature. "Below," "below," and "under" the second feature includes the first feature directly below or diagonally below the second feature, or simply indicates that the first feature is at a lower horizontal level than the second feature.
[0066] In the description of this embodiment, the terms "upper," "lower," "right," etc., refer to the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They are used only for ease of description and simplification of operation, 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 the present invention. In addition, the terms "first" and "second" are used only for distinction in description and have no special meaning.
[0067] Example 1
[0068] This embodiment provides a garment processing device, such as... Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the garment processing equipment includes a housing 110, a door 120 movably connected to the housing 110, an outer drum 130 disposed within the housing 110, an inner drum rotatably disposed within the outer drum 130, and a drive mechanism for driving the inner drum to rotate. The housing 110 is provided with a loading / unloading port, and the door 120 is used to open or close the loading / unloading port. The outer drum 130 and the inner drum have openings at their ends facing the door 120 to facilitate the loading / unloading of clothes into the inner drum through the loading / unloading port and the openings. The outer circumference of the inner drum is provided with multiple water passage holes to allow washing water from the outer drum 130 to enter the inner drum. During washing, the drive mechanism drives the inner drum to rotate, and the clothes are continuously lifted and dropped within the drum, repeating this motion multiple times. Combined with the washing water and detergent, this process cleans the clothes.
[0069] The clothing processing equipment is a washing machine or a washer-dryer combo; the clothing processing equipment can be commercial or household equipment.
[0070] During the washing process, dirt adheres to the inner wall of the outer drum 130 and the outer wall of the inner drum. As the dirt thickness increases, it peels off and enters the inner drum, contaminating the washed clothes. While the industry has proposed using ultrasonic cleaning to clean garment processing equipment without disassembling the machine, ultrasonic cleaning devices are generally integrated into the housing 110. Using a low-power ultrasonic cleaning device to save cost results in poor cleaning performance; using a high-power ultrasonic cleaning device significantly increases the cost of the garment processing equipment, and the low frequency of use makes it unacceptable to users or customers.
[0071] To address the aforementioned issues, this embodiment improves the structure of the garment processing equipment and provides an external ultrasonic cleaning device 200 for use with the garment processing equipment. The garment processing equipment requires only minor cost modifications to be compatible with the high-power external ultrasonic cleaning device 200 for cleaning, meeting the needs of users or customers who require regular cleaning of the garment processing equipment. Furthermore, the high-power external ultrasonic cleaning device 200 is not fixed to a single garment processing device, significantly reducing costs and making it more acceptable to operators, facilitating commercial application and promotion.
[0072] Combination Figures 1-3 As shown, the housing 110 is provided with a cleaning port, and the outer cylinder 130 is provided with a through hole 1321. The ultrasonic transmitter 220 of the external ultrasonic cleaning device 200 can extend into the outer cylinder 130 through the through hole 1321 to clean the inside of the outer cylinder 130.
[0073] To improve the cleaning effect, in some embodiments, a through hole 1321 is provided at the bottom end of the outer cylinder 130 so that water can enter the outer cylinder 130 during ultrasonic cleaning, and the cleaning purpose is achieved through the combination of water and ultrasonic waves. The amount of water entering can be controlled to reduce water waste.
[0074] It should be noted that when the ultrasonic transmitter 220 extends into the outer cylinder 130 through the through hole 1321 for cleaning, the interior of the outer cylinder 130 includes the inner wall of the outer cylinder 130 and the structures located inside the outer cylinder 130. The structures located inside the outer cylinder 130 include the heating component located inside the outer cylinder 130, the outer wall of the inner cylinder, and / or the structure for fixing the inner cylinder (e.g., a tripod).
[0075] To prevent leakage from the outer cylinder 130, in some embodiments, a sealing element 140 is provided inside the through hole 1321. The sealing element 140 has a slit 1411, which allows the ultrasonic transmitter 220 of the external ultrasonic cleaning device 200 to pass through and seal against it. The slit 1411 can also be closed when the sealing element 140 is not subjected to external force. With this configuration, when the garment processing equipment does not need cleaning, the slit 1411 is closed by the inherent properties of the sealing element 140, the outer cylinder 130 remains sealed, and the garment processing equipment can clean clothes normally. When cleaning is required, the ultrasonic transmitter 220 of the external ultrasonic cleaning device 200 is inserted through the cleaning port into the sealing element 140 and through the slit 1411 into the outer cylinder 130, thereby releasing ultrasonic waves into the outer cylinder 130. The cavitation effect of the ultrasonic waves achieves the purpose of cleaning both the outer and inner cylinders. At this time, the sealing component 140 and the ultrasonic transmitter 220 are sealed together, which can prevent the washing water in the outer cylinder 130 from leaking.
[0076] In some embodiments, the plug 140 is made of an elastic material to make the plug 140 elastic, under its elastic action, the plug 140 can not only seal the through hole 1321, but also ensure that the cut 1411 is closed when no external force is applied.
[0077] Alternatively, the sealing element 140 may be made of silicone or rubber.
[0078] In some embodiments, the sealing member 140 can be fixed to the through hole 1321 by an interference fit, which can both fix the sealing member 140 and facilitate the sealing member 140 to seal the through hole 1321.
[0079] In some embodiments, the cut 1411 is a narrow opening. When the sealing member 140 is assembled into the through hole 1321, the sealing member 140 is compressed by the assembly pressure of the through hole 1321, causing the opposite side walls of the cut 1411 to fit together, thereby achieving the sealing closure of the cut 1411.
[0080] To improve the stability of the sealing element 140 position, in some embodiments, in addition to the interference fit between the sealing element 140 and the through hole 1321, the sealing element 140 and the outer cylinder 130 are also fixed with fasteners to improve the fixing effect. Specifically, such as Figure 3 As shown, the sealing component 140 includes a sealing body 141 and a fixing flange 142. The sealing body 141 is located inside the through hole 1321, and the fixing flange 142 is arranged circumferentially around the sealing body 141. The fixing flange 142 is fixed to the outer cylinder 130 by fasteners.
[0081] Optionally, the fastener can be a screw, and the outer cylinder 130 is provided with a threaded hole that mates with the screw. The threaded hole is a blind hole to prevent water leakage.
[0082] To improve the sealing effect on the through hole 1321, in some embodiments, combined with Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, the cross-sectional area of the through hole 1321 gradually decreases from the outside to the inside of the outer cylinder 130. The sealing element 140 is sealed in the through hole 1321, and the shape of the sealing body 141 is adapted to the through hole 1321, with an interference fit between the sealing body 141 and the through hole 1321. By setting the cross-sectional area of the through hole 1321 to gradually decrease from the outside to the inside of the outer cylinder 130, and adapting the shape and size of the sealing body 141 to the through hole 1321, the sealing fit between the sealing body 141 and the through hole 1321 is improved, thus enhancing the sealing effect.
[0083] For example, the through hole 1321 is a tapered hole, and correspondingly, the sealing body 141 is set as a frustum shape so that the sealing body 141 can be adapted to the through hole 1321, thereby achieving a sealing fit.
[0084] In some other embodiments, the shapes of the through hole 1321 and the sealing body 141 can be adjusted according to actual needs, and are not limited here.
[0085] To ensure that water inside the outer cylinder 130 does not overflow through the cut 1411 when the sealing component 140 is engaged with the external ultrasonic cleaning device 200, in some embodiments, a sealing groove 1412 is provided on the sealing body 141, and the cut 1411 is located on the bottom surface of the sealing groove 1412. When the external ultrasonic cleaning device 200 passes through the cut 1411, a portion of the external ultrasonic cleaning device 200 extends into the sealing groove 1412 and abuts against the sealing groove 1412 to achieve a seal.
[0086] In some embodiments, the cross-sectional area of the sealing groove 1412 gradually decreases from the outer side to the inner side of the outer cylinder 130, which helps to improve the sealing effect with part of the structure of the external ultrasonic cleaning device 200, so as to avoid water leakage during cleaning. For example, the sealing groove 1412 is a conical groove.
[0087] To facilitate operators in determining whether the external ultrasonic cleaning device 200 is properly assembled with the garment processing equipment, in some embodiments, the garment processing equipment further includes a detection circuit 150. The detection circuit 150 includes a first conductive element 151 and a second conductive element 152 disposed on the sealing member 140. When the external ultrasonic cleaning device 200 is properly assembled with the garment processing equipment, the first conductive element 151 and the second conductive element 152 conduct electricity by contacting the external ultrasonic cleaning device 200, thereby activating the detection circuit 150 and enabling timely acquisition of the assembly status of the external ultrasonic cleaning device 200. In other words, when the external ultrasonic cleaning device 200 is properly assembled with the garment processing equipment, the first conductive element 151 and the second conductive element 152 respectively make conductive contact with corresponding positions on the external ultrasonic cleaning device 200, thereby activating the detection circuit 150 through the external ultrasonic cleaning device 200.
[0088] In some embodiments, the first conductive element 151 and the second conductive element 152 are disposed in the sealing groove 1412 to ensure that both the first conductive element 151 and the second conductive element 152 can contact the corresponding positions of the external ultrasonic cleaning device 200.
[0089] In some embodiments, the length of the first conductive element 151 extending into the sealing groove 1412 is different from the length of the second conductive element 152 extending into the sealing groove 1412, so as to avoid the first conductive element 151 and the second conductive element 152 directly contacting each other and short-circuiting, or short-circuiting with the same part of the external ultrasonic cleaning device 200.
[0090] In some embodiments, the first conductive element 151 and the second conductive element 152 can extend into the sealing groove 1412 through the opening of the sealing groove 1412, or they can extend into the sealing groove 1412 through the side wall of the sealing groove 1412.
[0091] In some embodiments, the locations of the first conductive element 151 and the second conductive element 152 that do not need to contact the external ultrasonic cleaning device 200 may be covered with an insulating layer to ensure safe use.
[0092] In some embodiments, both the first conductive element 151 and the second conductive element 152 are insulated, and their ends are connected to non-insulated conductive rings to make the power supply more reliable.
[0093] To simplify the structure, in some embodiments, the garment processing equipment also includes a power supply module electrically connected to the detection circuit 150, which can supply power to the external ultrasonic cleaning device 200 when the detection circuit 150 is on. This arrangement facilitates powering the external ultrasonic cleaning device 200 without requiring an additional power supply or power cord, thus simplifying the structure of the external ultrasonic cleaning device 200 and reducing costs. Furthermore, the power-on status of the external ultrasonic cleaning device 200 allows for a direct assessment of whether it is properly connected to the garment processing equipment.
[0094] In some other embodiments, the detection circuit 150 may also include an indicator light, which illuminates when the detection circuit 150 is turned on to remind the operator that the external ultrasonic cleaning device 200 has been connected to the garment processing equipment and is ready for cleaning.
[0095] In some embodiments, the garment processing equipment also includes a water inlet assembly, which is connected to the outer drum 130 and is used to inject water into the outer drum 130. The water inlet assembly is communicatively connected to the detection circuit 150 so that after the external ultrasonic cleaning device 200 is docked with the garment processing equipment, the water inlet assembly is activated to introduce water into the outer drum 130 for ultrasonic cleaning of the outer drum 130 and the inner drum.
[0096] Optionally, the water inlet assembly includes a water inlet valve, which is communicatively connected to the detection circuit 150 to control the opening and closing of the water inlet valve.
[0097] In some embodiments, the garment handling device further includes a control component 160, and the detection circuit 150 and the water inlet component are communicatively connected through the control component 160. Specifically, when the detection circuit 150 is turned on, the detection circuit 150 sends an electrical signal to the control component 160. After receiving the electrical signal, the control component 160 can control the water inlet component to start, so as to introduce water into the outer tube 130.
[0098] It should be noted that the control component 160 is a conventional structure in the art, and the circuit between the control component 160, the detection circuit 150, and the water inlet component is also a conventional setting in the art. The present invention can use any control component 160 and connection circuit in the prior art, as long as it can achieve the above functions, and will not be described in detail here.
[0099] In some embodiments, the outer cylinder 130 includes a cylinder body 131 and a heating chamber 132 located at the bottom of the cylinder body 131. The interior of the heating chamber 132 is connected to the interior of the cylinder body 131. A heating component is provided in the heating chamber 132 to heat the water in the outer cylinder 130, thereby improving the cleaning effect through hot water washing.
[0100] Alternatively, the heating element can be an electric heating element to reduce costs.
[0101] Because scale will form inside the heating chamber 132 or on the surface of the heating component after long-term use, affecting heating efficiency, in some embodiments, through holes 1321 are provided on the heating chamber 132 to clean the scale on the heating component by an external ultrasonic cleaning device 200, thereby improving the cleaning effect.
[0102] In some embodiments, combined with Figure 1 , Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, the housing 110 includes a front panel 111, an outer door 112, and a door lock assembly 113. The front panel 111 has a cleaning port, and the outer door 112 is movably connected to the front panel 111 to open or close the cleaning port. The door lock assembly 113 is located on the front panel 111 and can fix the outer door 112 in the closed cleaning port position. It can also release the outer door 112 after the garment processing equipment receives an opening command. By providing the outer door 112 and the door lock assembly 113, the cleaning port can be closed when the garment processing equipment is not needed, preventing the through hole 1321 and the sealing element 140 from being exposed, thus ensuring the safe use of the garment processing equipment. When cleaning is required, the door lock assembly 113 will only release the outer door 112 after receiving an opening command, preventing accidental opening of the cleaning port and improving the safety of the equipment.
[0103] In some embodiments, the door lock assembly 113 is communicatively connected to the control assembly 160, which includes an interactive structure through which an operator can input a command to open the outer hatch 112. After receiving the command to open the outer hatch 112, the control assembly 160 controls the door lock assembly 113 to unlock, so that the outer hatch 112 can move relative to the front panel 111 to open the cleaning port.
[0104] In some embodiments, the interaction structure includes multiple buttons, and the command to open the outer hatch 112 can be input through a special combination of at least two buttons, so as to reduce the probability of accidentally triggering the command to open the outer hatch 112.
[0105] In some other embodiments, the garment handling device is connected to a mobile terminal (e.g., a mobile phone or tablet computer) to send a command to open the outer hatch 112, so as to avoid the installation port being accidentally opened.
[0106] In some embodiments, the door lock assembly 113 includes a magnet 1131 and a coil 1132. The magnet 1131 is used to attract the outer hatch 112, and the coil 1132 is arranged around the magnet 1131. When the coil 1132 is energized, it can generate a magnetic field that cancels the magnetic field of the magnet 1131, so as to remove or reduce the attraction force of the magnet 1131 on the outer hatch 112, thereby enabling the outer hatch 112 to move relative to the front panel 111.
[0107] Using the aforementioned door lock assembly 113, only a set current for a set duration needs to be supplied to the coil 1132 after receiving the instruction to open the outer hatch 112, resulting in a simple structure. Under normal conditions, the coil 1132 does not need to be energized; the outer hatch 112 can be locked simply by the attraction force of the magnet 1131, resulting in low cost.
[0108] For example, the set duration can be 1-5 seconds, such as 1 second, 2 seconds, 3 seconds, 4 seconds, or 5 seconds. The set current can be 0.2-1A, such as 0.2A, 0.3A, 0.4A, 0.5A, 0.6A, 0.7A, 0.8A, 0.9A, or 1A. It should be noted that both the set duration and the set current can be determined according to actual needs or experiments. The above values are only typical examples and are not limited to these.
[0109] Optionally, both the front panel 111 and the outer hatch 112 can be made of carbon steel, which not only ensures that the outer hatch 112 is attracted by the magnet 1131, but also improves the strength of the front panel 111 and the outer hatch 112, preventing deformation and damage.
[0110] In some embodiments, the door lock assembly 113 further includes an elastic substrate 1133, which is fixed to the front panel 111. The magnet 1131 and the coil 1132 are both disposed within the elastic substrate 1133. By providing the elastic substrate 1133, when the outer hatch 112 closes the cleaning port, the elastic substrate 1133 can abut against the outer hatch 112, playing a buffering role, which helps to reduce vibration and noise. Furthermore, the elastic substrate 1133 can also protect the magnet 1131 and the coil 1132, isolating them from external high temperatures or vibrations, thereby making the magnet 1131 less prone to demagnetization.
[0111] Optionally, the elastic matrix 1133 may be made of rubber or silicone material.
[0112] When processing the door lock component 113, the coil 1132 can be wound around the outer periphery of the magnet 1131 first. Then, the assembled magnet 1131 and coil 1132 are placed into the designed mold. By injecting elastic material into the mold, it can be ensured that at least one end of the magnet 1131 is not exposed outside the elastic matrix 1133. Finally, the elastic material is cured by vulcanization.
[0113] In some embodiments, the front panel 111 is provided with mounting holes, and the elastic base 1133 is interference-fitted with the mounting holes to fix the door lock assembly 113 to the front panel 111. This fixing method not only simplifies the structure but also prevents loosening and does not generate additional noise when the garment handling equipment vibrates.
[0114] In some embodiments, the front panel 111 includes a front panel body 1111 and a mounting member 1112. The front panel body 1111 is provided with a cleaning port. The mounting member 1112 is located on the back side of the front panel body 1111 (i.e., the side facing the outer cylinder 130). The bottom end of the outer hatch 112 is rotatably connected to the mounting member 1112, and the connection point is located inside the center of gravity of the outer hatch 112. The door lock assembly 113 is located on the mounting member 1112 and inside the top of the cleaning port. With this configuration, when the magnetic field of the magnet 1131 is removed or weakened by the magnetic field generated by the coil 1132, the outer hatch 112 cannot maintain stability and will flip outward under the action of gravity, thereby automatically opening the cleaning port. Since the outer hatch 112 flips open under the action of gravity rather than being opened by external force, the opening process of the outer hatch 112 will not be too rapid and is unlikely to frighten nearby people.
[0115] Combination Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, in some embodiments, the mounting member 1112 is an annular shell structure with a clearance opening 11122 at its center. The circumferential edge of the mounting member 1112 is connected to the front plate body 1111 to improve the stability of the mounting member 1112.
[0116] Specifically, the mounting component 1112 has a basin-shaped structure, comprising a ring-shaped back plate, a side plate, and a mounting flange connected in sequence. The back plate has a clearance opening 11122, the side plate is arranged circumferentially along the back plate, and the mounting flange is arranged parallel to the back plate and circumferentially along the side plate. This structure allows the back plate and side plate to form an accommodating space, which provides space for the door lock assembly 113 and the connection structure between the mounting component 1112 and the outer hatch 112.
[0117] In some embodiments, the mounting component 1112 further includes a first bracket 11121 disposed on the side panel, the first bracket 11121 extending obliquely towards the front panel body 1111; the outer hatch 112 includes a door body 1121 and a second bracket 1122, the second bracket 1122 being disposed on the back of the door body 1121, the second bracket 1122 being substantially perpendicularly connected to the door body 1121, and the second bracket 1122 being rotatably connected to the first bracket 11121 via a pivot, thereby enabling the door body 1121 to rotate relative to the front panel 111. Optionally, the first bracket 11121 and the second bracket 1122 can be rotatably connected via a pivot.
[0118] In addition, this arrangement can also hide the connection structure between the outer door 112 and the front panel 111, which helps to improve the appearance of the garment processing equipment.
[0119] like Figure 6 As shown, there are two of each of the first bracket 11121 and the second bracket 1122 to improve the stability of the connection between the outer hatch 112 and the front panel 111.
[0120] like Figure 7 As shown, the external ultrasonic cleaning device 200 includes an external body 210, an ultrasonic transmitter 220, and a moving component 230. The external body 210 can pass through the cleaning port. The moving component 230 is movably connected to the external body 210 and connected to the ultrasonic transmitter 220. When the moving component 230 moves relative to the external body 210, it can drive the ultrasonic transmitter 220 to move, so that the ultrasonic transmitter 220 passes through the cut 1411 and extends into the outer cylinder 130, or is pulled out from the cut 1411.
[0121] The external ultrasonic cleaning device 200 can be used in conjunction with clothing processing equipment to achieve the purpose of cleaning the clothing processing equipment without increasing the cost of a single clothing processing equipment, thus avoiding idleness; moreover, the external ultrasonic cleaning device 200 is a shared device, which greatly reduces costs, and a higher power ultrasonic generator can be selected to improve the cleaning effect.
[0122] In some embodiments, the ultrasonic transmitter 220 is an ultrasonic transducer, which is only required to transmit ultrasonic waves into the outer cylinder 130.
[0123] In some embodiments, one end of the ultrasonic transmitter 220 away from the moving component 230 is configured as spherical or pointed to facilitate the ultrasonic transmitter 220 passing through the cut 1411.
[0124] For ease of operation, in some embodiments, the external body 210 can be fixed to the housing 110 to reduce the intensity of operation for the operator and improve the stability of the external ultrasonic cleaning device 200.
[0125] Specifically, the external main body 210 includes a fixed cylinder 211, a fixing member 212, and a resetting member. The fixed cylinder 211 is hollow inside, and the moving component 230 and the ultrasonic transmitter 220 are both inserted inside the fixed cylinder 211 to protect the moving component 230 and the ultrasonic transmitter 220 from impact damage and accidental contact that could cause safety hazards. The fixing member 212 is movably disposed in the fixed cylinder 211 and is linked with the moving component 230. When the moving component 230 drives the ultrasonic transmitter 220 to extend into the cut 1411, the fixing member 212 can be detachably connected to the housing 110 under the action of the moving component 230. The resetting member connects the fixing member 212 and the fixed cylinder 211 and can drive the fixing member 212 to reset so as to detach it from the housing 110.
[0126] In some embodiments, the fixing member 212 is rotatably connected to the fixing cylinder 211. The fixing member 212 includes a limiting claw 2122, which is used to engage with the housing 110 to achieve a detachable connection.
[0127] Alternatively, the reset element can be a spring to simplify the structure and reduce costs.
[0128] In some embodiments, the movable component 230 is movable relative to the fixed cylinder 211 along the axial direction of the fixed cylinder 211 so as to abut against the fixing member 212 and push the fixing member 212 to rotate.
[0129] When the moving component 230 does not move or moves a short distance, such as Figure 7 and Figure 8 As shown, the fixing member 212 is in its initial position under the action of the resetting member. In this state, the limiting claw 2122 is in the avoidance position, allowing the external body 210 to pass smoothly through the cleaning port, avoiding structural interference that could affect the cooperation between the external ultrasonic cleaning device 200 and the garment processing equipment. When the moving component 230 moves a certain distance, as... Figure 9 and Figure 10 As shown, the fixing component 212 rotates relative to the fixing cylinder 211 under the drive of the moving component 230, and the limiting claw 2122 can engage with the housing 110 to prevent the external ultrasonic cleaning device 200 from detaching from the clothing processing equipment. During the cleaning process, the cleaning operator does not need to hold it, which reduces the labor of the operator and also ensures the stability of the cleaning process.
[0130] In some embodiments, the fixing cylinder 211 is provided with a clearance hole 2111, and the fixing member 212 is rotatably disposed in the clearance hole 2111. When the fixing member 212 is not subjected to the force applied by the moving component 230, the fixing member 212 is housed in the clearance hole 2111 under the action of the resetting component, so as to avoid the fixing member 212 protruding out of the fixing cylinder 211, thereby avoiding interference between the fixing member 212 and the clothing processing equipment, and thus avoiding affecting the fit between the fixing cylinder 211 and the cleaning port.
[0131] In some embodiments, the fixing member 212 further includes a connecting part 2121 connected to the limiting claw 2122. The connecting part 2121 is rotatably connected to the fixing cylinder 211. The connecting part 2121 can abut against the moving component 230 to drive the limiting claw 2122 to rotate.
[0132] In some embodiments, the connecting portion 2121 is provided with an abutting arc surface 21211, which is used to abut against the moving component 230 so as to drive the fixing member 212 to rotate through the moving component 230. By providing the abutting arc surface 21211, it is possible to avoid scratching or damaging the moving component 230 while ensuring the driving action on the fixing member 212.
[0133] To achieve linear movement of the movable component 230 relative to the fixed cylinder 211, in some embodiments, the movable component 230 and the fixed cylinder 211 are threaded together. When the movable component 230 is rotated, the fixed cylinder 211 cannot rotate because it is fixed to the housing 110, thus achieving linear movement of the movable component 230 relative to the fixed cylinder 211. This allows the ultrasonic transmitter 220 to be inserted into the outer cylinder 130 through the cut 1411. Furthermore, by using the threaded connection to achieve linear movement of the movable component 230, it can also be fixed at any moving position, utilizing the self-locking capability of the thread to ensure stability during cleaning.
[0134] Specifically, the moving component 230 includes a moving rod 232 and a first mating part 233 fixedly connected to the moving rod 232. The first mating part 233 is threadedly engaged with the fixed cylinder 211. When the first mating part 233 rotates, the first mating part 233 will drive the moving rod 232 to move along the axial direction of the fixed cylinder 211.
[0135] Preferably, the first mating part 233 is provided with a self-locking large lead thread so as to move quickly during rotation and improve work efficiency.
[0136] For ease of operation, in some embodiments, the moving component 230 further includes a handheld part 231, which is fixedly connected to one end of the moving rod 232. The first mating part 233 is always located inside the fixed cylinder 211, while the handheld part 231 is located outside the fixed cylinder 211. The operator can rotate the handheld part 231, which in turn drives the first mating part 233 to rotate via the moving rod 232, making operation convenient.
[0137] In some other embodiments, the first mating part 233 may also slide with the fixed cylinder 211 along the axial direction of the fixed cylinder 211.
[0138] In order to enable the fixed member 212 to rotate, in some embodiments, the moving component 230 further includes a second mating part 234, which is connected to the moving rod 232 and can abut against the fixed member 212 to drive the fixed member 212 to rotate.
[0139] Optionally, the end face edge of the second mating part 234 is provided with rounded corners, which can engage with the abutting arc surface 21211 on the fixing member 212. The second mating part 234 can quickly drive the fixing member 212 to rotate by moving a small distance, so that the limiting claw 2122 is locked and fixed with the housing 110. After the moving rod 232 continues to move, the angle of the fixing member 212 can remain unchanged, thereby avoiding excessive locking force between the limiting claw 2122 and the housing 110 and damage.
[0140] In some embodiments, the second mating part 234 is spaced apart from the inner wall of the fixed cylinder 211 to avoid friction and reduce the resistance encountered by the moving component 230 when it moves.
[0141] To ensure that there is no water leakage at the cut 1411 during cleaning, in some embodiments, the moving assembly 230 further includes a sealing end 235, which is disposed at the end of the moving rod 232. The ultrasonic transmitting end 220 is disposed on the side of the sealing end 235 away from the moving rod 232. The sealing end 235 can abut against the sealing member 140 after the ultrasonic transmitting end 220 passes through the cut 1411, thereby improving the sealing reliability.
[0142] Specifically, after the ultrasonic transmitting end 220 passes through the cut 1411, the sealing end 235 can be located in the sealing groove 1412 of the sealing member 140 and tightly fitted with the sealing groove 1412 to improve the sealing effect.
[0143] In some embodiments, the sealing end 235 is frustum-shaped, which can cooperate with the conical sealing groove 1412 to improve the sealing effect; on the other hand, it can ensure that the sealing end 235 and the sealing groove 1412 can cooperate smoothly after the moving rod 232 is rotated to any angle.
[0144] To facilitate cooperation with the detection circuit 150 in the garment processing equipment, the sealed end 235 includes a conductive structure electrically connected to the ultrasonic transmitter 220. The conductive structure can make conductive contact with the first conductive element 151 and the second conductive element 152 in the detection circuit 150, thereby turning on the detection circuit 150 to determine whether the external ultrasonic cleaning device 200 is properly connected, and to facilitate powering the external ultrasonic cleaning device 200 through the garment processing equipment.
[0145] In some embodiments, the sealing end 235 includes a first frustum 2351 and a second frustum 2352 made of conductive material, and a third frustum 2353 made of insulating material. The third frustum 2353 is located between the first frustum 2351 and the second frustum 2352. The minimum outer diameter of the third frustum 2353 is equal to the maximum outer diameter of the first frustum 2351, and the maximum outer diameter of the third frustum 2353 is equal to the minimum outer diameter of the second frustum 2352, so that the first frustum 2351, the second frustum 2352, and the third frustum 2353 can be spliced into a complete frustum, thereby facilitating its engagement with the sealing groove 1412. The first frustum 2351 and the second frustum 2352 are electrically connected to the ultrasonic transmitter 220, respectively, acting as the positive and negative terminals of a power supply, so as to supply power to the ultrasonic transmitter 220 after the detection circuit 150 is turned on.
[0146] After the external ultrasonic cleaning device 200 is assembled with the garment processing equipment, the second truncated cone 2352 can make conductive contact with the first conductive element 151, and the first truncated cone 2351 can make conductive contact with the second conductive element 152, thereby turning on the detection circuit 150.
[0147] Optionally, the movable rod 232, the first mating part 233, the second mating part 234, and the sealing end 235 can be integrally formed or separately provided.
[0148] To facilitate the installation of the movable component 230 into the fixed cylinder 211, the fixed cylinder 211 includes a first half-cylinder and a second half-cylinder that can be detachably connected, so as to facilitate the assembly of the movable component 230 and the fixed cylinder 211, making operation convenient and maintenance easy.
[0149] In some other embodiments, the external ultrasonic cleaning device 200 described above can also be used in conjunction with other equipment that needs to be cleaned in order to achieve the purpose of cleaning the equipment.
[0150] Example 2
[0151] This embodiment provides a cleaning method that uses the external ultrasonic cleaning device 200 from Embodiment 1 and applies it to the clothing processing equipment from Embodiment 1 to clean the clothing processing equipment.
[0152] In this cleaning method, after the external ultrasonic cleaning device 200 is connected to the clothing processing equipment, the washing step is initiated. Specifically, the washing solution is injected into the outer drum 130 to a preset water level, then the external ultrasonic cleaning device 200 is started and continues for a preset time, and finally the drainage is initiated to discharge the sewage in the outer drum 130.
[0153] Alternatively, the washing solution may be water or a mixture of water and detergent.
[0154] In some embodiments, before injecting the washing solution into the outer drum 130, the method further includes obtaining a cleaning mode, which includes a thorough cleaning and a regular cleaning; and obtaining a preset water level and a recommended operating state of the inner drum in the garment processing device based on the cleaning mode. The recommended operating state includes whether to rotate, the rotation speed, and the rotation duration, so as to clean with the corresponding parameters to meet different cleaning needs.
[0155] Understandably, the inner wall of the washing machine's outer drum (130mm) is relatively smooth, and it is constantly impacted by the high-speed water during the spin cycle, making it difficult for stains to accumulate. This is why advertisements for washing machine cleaning solutions never show the outer drum (130mm) when demonstrating the level of dirt on the washing machine drum. The truly dirty areas are the outer wall of the inner drum and the tripod that holds the inner drum in place at the rear.
[0156] To allow for targeted cleaning based on different cleaning needs, the comprehensive cleaning mode includes cleaning the inner wall of the outer cylinder 130, the outer wall of the inner cylinder, the tripod that secures the inner cylinder, and the heating components located in the heating chamber 132. This cleaning cycle is relatively long, for example, once every six months. In contrast, the regular cleaning mode excludes the inner wall of the outer cylinder 130, only cleaning the outer wall of the inner cylinder, the tripod that secures the inner cylinder, and the heating components located in the heating chamber 132. This cleaning cycle is shorter, for example, once a month.
[0157] To avoid wasting water and electricity, the corresponding preset water level in the full cleaning mode is the first preset water level. The first preset water level is relatively high and is required to cover the top of the outer drum 130 so that the inner wall of the outer drum 130 can be in contact with the washing solution, thereby achieving a full cleaning of the inner wall of the outer drum 130.
[0158] Correspondingly, due to the high water level, it is not recommended to rotate the inner drum during full cleaning mode. Firstly, even without rotation, the inner drum can be fully submerged, allowing the energy emitted by the ultrasonic transmitter 220 to be fully applied to it. Secondly, the rotation resistance of a fully submerged inner drum is very high, so keeping it stationary does not affect the cleaning effect and also reduces energy consumption.
[0159] In the normal washing mode, since there is no need to clean the inner wall of the outer drum 130, the corresponding preset water level is the second preset water level. The second preset water level is lower than the first preset water level, and it is not required to submerge the outer drum 130. The second preset water level can be the normal washing water level, such as 20-40 liters, to avoid water waste.
[0160] Correspondingly, due to the low water level, it is recommended that the inner drum rotate in the normal cleaning mode, with the rotation speed being the first speed, selectable at 10-30 r / min. The inner drum rotates slowly to ensure that each part has sufficient time to be immersed in the washing solution.
[0161] Optionally, the rotation time of the inner cylinder can be equal to or less than the working time of the external ultrasonic cleaning device 200.
[0162] In some embodiments, the preset duration for the external ultrasonic cleaning device 200 to operate during comprehensive cleaning is a first preset duration, and the preset duration for the external ultrasonic cleaning device 200 to operate during routine cleaning is a second preset duration. The first preset duration is longer than the second preset duration, so as to ensure the cleaning effect while reducing energy consumption.
[0163] Optionally, the first preset time can be 20-35 minutes, preferably 25-30 minutes; the second preset time can be 5-15 minutes, preferably 5-10 minutes, which greatly improves efficiency compared to disassembly and provides a better cleaning effect.
[0164] In some embodiments, after the washing step is completed, a preset number of rinsing steps can be performed. The preset number of rinsing steps can be 1 to 3 times, and the specific number of rinsing steps can be set according to the washing frequency or by the user.
[0165] In some embodiments, the rinsing step is roughly the same as the washing step in the conventional washing mode, which includes injecting washing solution into the outer drum 130, starting the external ultrasonic cleaning device 200 and maintaining it for a certain period of time, rotating the inner drum while starting the external ultrasonic cleaning device 200, and finally draining the water.
[0166] In some embodiments, the washing solution in the rinsing step is water, and no cleaning agent needs to be added to ensure the rinsing effect.
[0167] In some embodiments, the water level in the outer cylinder 130 during the rinsing step is a third preset water level, which may be lower than or equal to the second preset water level.
[0168] In some embodiments, during the rinsing step in the full cleaning mode, the inner drum can rotate at a second speed, which is greater than the first speed. This high-speed rotation of the inner drum is used to evenly distribute water to all surfaces within the outer drum 130, achieving the rinsing purpose. Optionally, the second speed is 80-120 r / min, preferably 90-110 r / min.
[0169] In some embodiments, during the rinsing step in the conventional cleaning mode, the inner drum can rotate at a third rotational speed, which is less than or equal to the first rotational speed. The speed does not need to be too high to prevent stains on the inner drum from re-adhering to the outer drum 130. Optionally, the third rotational speed is 5-20 r / min, preferably 5-10 r / min.
[0170] In some embodiments, before proceeding to the washing step, it is also included to confirm whether the external ultrasonic cleaning device 200 is properly connected to the clothing treatment equipment to ensure the effectiveness of use.
[0171] Specifically, determine whether the detection circuit 150 is conductive. If it is conductive, it means that the external ultrasonic cleaning device 200 is properly connected to the garment processing equipment. If it is not conductive, it means that the external ultrasonic cleaning device 200 is not properly connected to the garment processing equipment, and the operator needs to be reminded to check and adjust it.
[0172] In some embodiments, after confirming that the external ultrasonic cleaning device 200 is properly connected to the garment processing equipment, the control component 160 controls the power supply module to supply power to the external ultrasonic cleaning device 200, which draws power from the garment processing equipment. This design is simple and safer to use.
[0173] In some embodiments, the cleaning method further includes confirming whether an instruction to open the outer hatch 112 has been received. If such an instruction is received, the control component 160 controls the door lock component 113 to unlock. Specifically, the control component 160 inputs a current of a set duration and direction to the coil 1132 of the door lock component 113, causing the magnetic field generated by the coil 1132 to remove or reduce the magnetic field of the magnet 1131 itself. The door lock component 113 then no longer attracts the outer hatch 112, and the outer hatch 112 flips open to the outside of the container 110 under the action of gravity.
[0174] After the outer hatch 112 is opened, the operator connects the external ultrasonic cleaning device 200 to the garment processing equipment. Specifically, the external ultrasonic cleaning device 200 is inserted through the cleaning port, and the handheld part 231 is rotated, causing the moving rod 232 to rotate into the housing 110. The fixing part 212 rotates relative to the fixing cylinder 211 so that the limiting claw 2122 engages with the housing 110. The handheld part 231 is continued to be rotated, and the moving rod 232 causes the ultrasonic transmitting end 220 to pass through the cut 1411 and extend into the outer cylinder 130. The sealing end 235 extends into the sealing groove 1412 and abuts against the sealing part 140 to ensure a seal. Simultaneously, the first truncated cone 2351 contacts the second conductive element 152, and the second truncated cone 2352 contacts the first conductive element 151, thus turning on the detection circuit 150. The detection circuit 150 sends an electrical signal to the control component 160. After receiving the electrical signal, the control component 160 confirms that the external ultrasonic cleaning device 200 has been properly connected to the washing machine. Then, it can control the water intake to the set water volume, the inner drum to rotate at the set speed for the set time, and / or control the ultrasonic transmitter 220 to work at the set power for the set time according to the program selected by the operator.
[0175] Obviously, the above embodiments of the present invention are merely examples for clearly illustrating the present invention, and are not intended to limit the implementation of the present invention. Those skilled in the art will be able to make various obvious changes, readjustments, and substitutions without departing from the scope of protection of the present invention. It is neither necessary nor possible to exhaustively describe all embodiments here. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, and improvements made within the spirit and principles of the present invention should be included within the scope of protection of the claims of the present invention.
Claims
1. A garment processing device, characterized in that, include: A housing (110) is provided with a cleaning port; An outer cylinder (130) is disposed inside the housing (110). The outer cylinder (130) is provided with a through hole (1321). The ultrasonic transmitter (220) of the external ultrasonic cleaning device can extend into the outer cylinder (130) through the through hole (1321) to clean the inside of the outer cylinder (130).
2. The garment processing equipment according to claim 1, characterized in that, The garment processing equipment also includes a sealing element (140), which is sealed within the through hole (1321). The sealing element (140) has a cut (1411) that allows the ultrasonic transmitter (220) of an external ultrasonic cleaning device to pass through and seal with the ultrasonic transmitter (220). The cut (1411) can be sealed closed when the sealing element (140) is not subjected to external force.
3. The garment processing equipment according to claim 2, characterized in that, The cross-sectional area of the through hole (1321) gradually decreases from the outside to the inside of the outer cylinder (130); The sealing component (140) includes a sealing body (141), which is sealed in the through hole (1321). The shape of the sealing body (141) is the same as that of the through hole (1321), and the sealing body (141) and the through hole (1321) are press-fitted.
4. The garment processing equipment according to claim 2, characterized in that, The sealing member (140) is provided with a sealing groove (1412), and the cut (1411) is provided on the bottom surface of the sealing groove (1412). The sealing groove (1412) is used to seal a part of the structure that accommodates the external ultrasonic cleaning device.
5. The garment processing equipment according to claim 2, characterized in that, The garment processing equipment also includes: The detection circuit (150) includes a first conductive element (151) and a second conductive element (152) disposed on the sealing element (140). The first conductive element (151) and the second conductive element (152) can make conductive contact with the external ultrasonic cleaning device to make the detection circuit (150) conductive. The power supply module is electrically connected to the first conductive element (151) and the second conductive element (152) respectively to supply power to the external ultrasonic cleaning device.
6. The garment processing equipment according to any one of claims 1-4, characterized in that, The housing (110) includes: A front panel (111) is provided with the cleaning port; An outer hatch (112) is movably connected to the front panel (111) to open or close the cleaning port; A door lock assembly (113) is disposed on the front panel (111). The door lock assembly (113) can fix the outer door (112) in the position of closing the washing port, and can release the fixation of the outer door (112) after the garment processing equipment receives the door opening command.
7. The garment processing equipment according to claim 6, characterized in that, The front panel (111) includes: The front panel body (1111) is provided with the cleaning port; The mounting component (1112) is disposed on the back of the front panel body (1111), the bottom end of the outer hatch (112) is rotatably connected to the mounting component (1112), and the door lock assembly (113) is disposed on the mounting component (1112) and located on the inner side of the top of the cleaning port.
8. An external ultrasonic cleaning device for use in conjunction with the garment processing equipment as described in any one of claims 1-7, characterized in that, The external ultrasonic cleaning device includes: An external body (210) that can pass through the cleaning port; An ultrasonic transmitter (220) is used to emit ultrasonic waves; A movable component (230) is movably connected to the external body (210). The movable component (230) is connected to the ultrasonic transmitter (220). The movable component (230) can drive the ultrasonic transmitter (220) to pass through the through hole (1321) or be pulled out from the through hole (1321).
9. The external ultrasonic cleaning device according to claim 8, characterized in that, The external body (210) includes: The fixed cylinder (211) is provided, and the movable component (230) and the ultrasonic transmitter (220) are disposed inside the fixed cylinder (211); A fixing member (212) is movably disposed in the fixing cylinder (211). The fixing member (212) is linked with the moving component (230). When the moving component (230) drives the ultrasonic transmitting end (220) to extend into the through hole (1321), the fixing member (212) is detachably connected to the housing (110) under the action of the moving component (230). A reset member connects the fixing member (212) and the fixing cylinder (211). The reset member can drive the fixing member (212) to reset so as to disengage from the housing (110).
10. The external ultrasonic cleaning device according to claim 9, characterized in that, The fixing member (212) includes a limiting claw (2122), one end of which is rotatably connected to the fixing cylinder (211). The moving component (230) can move linearly relative to the fixing cylinder (211) to push the limiting claw (2122) to rotate in the direction of engaging with the housing (110). The resetting component can drive the limiting claw (2122) to rotate in the direction of disengaging from the housing (110).
11. The external ultrasonic cleaning device according to claim 9, characterized in that, The movable component (230) is threadedly engaged with the fixed cylinder (211).
12. The external ultrasonic cleaning device according to any one of claims 8-11, characterized in that, The moving component (230) includes a sealed end (235), and the ultrasonic transmitting end (220) is disposed on the sealed end (235). The sealed end (235) is capable of abutting against the garment processing device after the ultrasonic transmitting end (220) passes through the through hole (1321). The sealed end (235) includes a conductive structure electrically connected to the ultrasonic transmitter (220), the conductive structure being used for electrical connection with the garment processing equipment.
13. A cleaning method, employing an external ultrasonic cleaning device as described in any one of claims 8-12, applied to a garment processing device as described in any one of claims 1-7, characterized in that, The cleaning method includes: After the ultrasonic transmitter (220) of the external ultrasonic cleaning device extends into the outer cylinder (130) through the through hole (1321), the washing solution is injected into the outer cylinder (130) to the preset water level. Start the external ultrasonic cleaning device and continue for a preset duration; Start drainage.
14. The cleaning method according to claim 13, characterized in that, Before injecting the washing solution into the outer cylinder (130), the following steps are also included: Obtain the cleaning mode, which includes full cleaning and regular cleaning; Based on the washing mode, the preset water level and the recommended working state of the inner drum in the clothing processing device are obtained. The recommended working state includes whether to rotate, the rotation speed, and the rotation duration.