Control method of a washer-dryer and washer-dryer

Abstract

This invention relates to the field of garment processing technology, specifically providing a control method for a washer-dryer combo and the washer-dryer combo itself. Specifically, the washer-dryer combo of this invention includes a housing, an outer drum, an inner drum, a drying device, a lint collection device, and a detergent dispensing device. The drying device includes a drying duct communicating with the outer drum. The lint collection device is detachably installed within the drying duct. An indicator light is provided on the housing. The control method includes: when the lint collection device needs cleaning, the indicator light provides a first indication; when the detergent dispensing device needs adding detergent, the indicator light provides a second indication. The indicator light prompts the user to clean the lint collection device when it needs cleaning, ensuring timely cleaning and preventing impact on drying efficiency. Similarly, the indicator light prompts the user to add detergent when needed.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of garment processing technology, specifically providing a control method for a washer-dryer combo and the washer-dryer combo itself. Background Technology

[0002] A washer-dryer combo is a device that can both wash and dry clothes. After completing the washing cycle, it immediately runs a drying cycle to dry the clothes in the drum. Especially in rainy weather, drying clothes helps prevent them from becoming moldy and smelly.

[0003] During the drying process of a washer-dryer combo, airflow circulates between the garment handling drum and the drying duct. Lint from the clothes is carried into the drying duct by the airflow. A lint collection device is typically installed inside the drying duct to filter the airflow and collect the lint.

[0004] When there is a lot of lint in the lint collection device, the washer-dryer combo can emit an audible warning to remind the user to remove the lint collection device from the drying duct for cleaning. However, if the user is far away or in a noisy environment, they may not hear the warning, making it impossible to clean the lint collection device in time, thus affecting drying efficiency.

[0005] Therefore, a new technical solution is needed in this field to solve the above problems. Summary of the Invention

[0006] The present invention aims to solve the above-mentioned technical problem, namely, to solve the problem that the prompts emitted by existing washer-dryer combos are inaudible to users, thus making it impossible to clean the lint collection device in a timely manner.

[0007] In a first aspect, the present invention provides a control method for a washer-dryer combo, the washer-dryer combo including a housing and an outer drum, an inner drum, a drying device, a lint collection device, and a detergent dispensing device installed inside the housing. The inner drum is rotatably installed in the outer drum. The drying device includes a drying duct communicating with the outer drum. The lint collection device is detachably installed in the drying duct. The detergent dispensing device is used to dispense detergent into the inner drum. An indicator light is provided on the housing. The control method includes:

[0008] When the lint collection device needs to be cleaned, the indicator light will illuminate according to the first indicator scheme.

[0009] When the detergent dispensing device needs to add detergent, the indicator light will illuminate according to the second indicator scheme.

[0010] In the preferred embodiment of the above control method, the step of "making the indicator light provide a prompt according to the first prompting scheme" specifically includes:

[0011] The indicator light flashes and displays a first color.

[0012] In the preferred embodiment of the above control method, the step of "making the indicator light provide a prompt according to the second prompt scheme" specifically includes:

[0013] The indicator light flashes and displays a second color.

[0014] In a preferred embodiment of the above control method, the indicator light is elongated, and the control method further includes:

[0015] During the operation of the washer-dryer combo, the duration of the indicator light's illumination is matched with the progress of the washer-dryer combo's operating program.

[0016] In a preferred embodiment of the above control method, the control method further includes: making the indicator light display different colors in different light segments.

[0017] In a preferred embodiment of the above control method, the lint collection device includes a housing and a filter, a scraping component, and a handle mounted on the housing. The housing has an air inlet at a first end along a first direction, and an air outlet between the first end and a second end of the housing. The filter is mounted at the air outlet. The scraping component is located inside the housing and close to the second end of the housing. A first component is provided on the scraping component. The handle is located outside the housing and a second component is provided on the handle. At least one of the first component and the second component has magnetic force, so that the first component and the second component attract each other. This allows the handle to drive the scraping component to move along the first direction toward the first end of the housing, thereby causing the scraping component to push the lint inside the housing toward the air inlet.

[0018] In a preferred embodiment of the above control method, the lint collecting device further includes a button, an elastic reset member, and an elastic drive member mounted on the housing. The button has a first locking structure, and the scraping member has a second locking structure. The first locking structure and the second locking structure cooperate to lock the scraping member in an initial position. The elastic reset member is installed between the housing and the button. When the button is pressed, the elastic reset member is compressed or stretched. When the button is released from pressure, the elastic reset member resets the button. The elastic drive member is installed between the housing and the scraping member. The elastic drive member extends along the first direction. When the scraping member is in the initial position, the elastic drive member is compressed or stretched. When the first locking structure separates from the second locking structure, the elastic drive member can push or pull the scraping member to move along the first direction toward the first end of the housing; and / or

[0019] The outer casing is provided with a first guide structure, and the handle is provided with a second guide structure. The first guide structure and the second guide structure cooperate to ensure that the handle can only move along the first direction; and / or

[0020] Both the first component and the second component are configured as magnets.

[0021] In a preferred embodiment of the above control method, a guide rod is provided on the outer casing, the guide rod extends along the first direction, and a guide cylinder adapted to the guide rod is provided on the scraping member. The guide cylinder is sleeved on the guide rod, and the guide cylinder cooperates with the guide rod to guide the scraping member as it moves along the first direction. The elastic driving member is sleeved on the guide rod and located between the guide cylinder and the outer casing; and / or

[0022] Both the elastic reset component and the elastic drive component are configured as springs.

[0023] In the preferred embodiment of the above control method, the number of guide rods is three and they are arranged in a triangular or inverted triangular shape; the number of elastic drive components is three and they are respectively sleeved on the corresponding guide rods; and the number of guide cylinders is three and they are respectively sleeved on the corresponding guide rods.

[0024] In a second aspect, the present invention also provides a washer-dryer combo machine, including a controller configured to perform the control method described above.

[0025] With the above technical solution, the present invention provides an indicator light on the housing. When the lint collection device needs to be cleaned, the indicator light prompts the user to clean it, thus ensuring timely cleaning of the lint collection device and avoiding affecting the drying efficiency of the washer-dryer combo. In addition, when the detergent dispensing device needs to be added, the indicator light can also prompt the user to add detergent to the detergent dispensing device in a timely manner.

[0026] Furthermore, by flashing the indicator light, the present invention creates a sense of urgency, which helps users to clean the lint collection device or add detergent to the detergent dispensing device in a timely manner.

[0027] Furthermore, this invention uses the illumination level of the indicator light to reflect the progress of the running program, providing users with a more intuitive experience and further enhancing the user experience.

[0028] Furthermore, by displaying different colors on different segments of the indicator light, the present invention makes it easier to monitor the program progress and makes the enclosure more aesthetically pleasing.

[0029] Furthermore, the lint collection device of the present invention, by providing a scraping component inside the housing, can push the lint inside the housing toward the air inlet of the housing when it is necessary to clean the lint inside the housing, which facilitates the cleaning of lint, improves the cleaning efficiency of lint, and enhances the user experience. In addition, the scraping component can also scrape off the lint on the filter screen. Moreover, by providing a first component and a second component on the scraping component and the handle respectively, the scraping component can be moved by the attraction between the first component and the second component, without the need for the handle to directly contact the scraping component, which can effectively avoid air leakage and lint leakage.

[0030] Furthermore, by setting a button, the present invention can lock the scraping component in the initial position to prevent the scraping component from moving automatically. By setting an elastic reset component between the housing and the button, the button can be automatically reset and the first locking structure on the button and the second locking structure on the scraping component can be prevented from automatically separating. By setting an elastic drive component between the scraping component and the housing, the scraping component can be automatically driven to move after the button is pressed, thereby improving the user experience.

[0031] Furthermore, the present invention guides the handle by setting a first guide structure and a second guide structure, which facilitates the operation of the handle to move with the scraping component and prevents the handle from deviating.

[0032] Furthermore, by providing a guide rod on the outer shell and a guide cylinder adapted to the guide rod on the scraping member, the present invention can prevent the scraping member from shifting during movement. In addition, by sleeved the elastic drive member on the guide rod, it is easier to drive the scraping member to move, resulting in better reliability.

[0033] Furthermore, by setting the number of guide rods to three and distributing them in a triangular or inverted triangular shape, the present invention can achieve a better guiding effect. In addition, an elastic driving member is fitted on each guide rod, which enables the scraping member to move more stably toward the first end of the outer shell. Attached Figure Description

[0034] The preferred embodiments of the present invention are described below with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0035] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the casing of the washer-dryer of the present invention;

[0036] Figure 2 This is an assembly diagram of the outer cylinder and drying system of the present invention;

[0037] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the drying system of the washer-dryer of the present invention;

[0038] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the lint collection device of the washer-dryer of the present invention. Figure 1 ;

[0039] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the lint collection device of the washer-dryer of the present invention. Figure 2 ;

[0040] Figure 6 This is a partial cross-sectional view of the wire chip collecting device of the present invention;

[0041] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the scraping component of the lint collection device of the present invention;

[0042] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the handle of the lint collecting device of the present invention;

[0043] Figure 9 This is a flowchart of the control method of the present invention.

[0044] List of reference numerals in the attached diagram:

[0045] 1. Housing; 11. Disassembly port; 2. Outer cylinder; 22. Window gasket; 31. Drying air duct; 32. Fan; 33. Evaporator; 34. Condenser; 35. Compressor; 36. Corrugated pipe; 37. Rubber hose; 38. Refrigerant pipe; 311. First air duct; 312. Second air duct; 3111. Air inlet port; 3112. Connector; 3121. Air outlet port; 4. Wire lint collection device; 41. Outer shell; 411. Air inlet; 412. Air outlet; 413. 414. Guide rod; 415. First guide structure; 416. Strip groove; 417. Mounting cavity; 418. Limiting post; 42. Scraping component; 421. Guide cylinder; 422. Second locking structure; 423. First receiving limiting groove; 43. Handle; 431. Second guide structure; 44. First component; 45. Second component; 46. Button; 461. First locking structure; 462. Slot; 47. Elastic reset component; 48. Elastic drive component; 5. Indicator light. Detailed Implementation

[0046] Preferred embodiments of the present invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Those skilled in the art should understand that these embodiments are merely illustrative of the technical principles of the present invention and are not intended to limit the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0047] It should be noted that in the description of this invention, terms such as "left" and "right," which indicate direction or positional relationship, are based on the direction or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. This is merely for ease of description and does not indicate or imply that the device or element must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, it should not be construed as a limitation of this invention. Furthermore, the terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance.

[0048] Furthermore, it should be noted that, in the description of this invention, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "set," "connect," and "install" should be interpreted broadly, for example, referring to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this invention according to the specific circumstances.

[0049] Specifically, the present invention provides a washer-dryer combo, such as... Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the washer-dryer of the present invention includes a housing 1 and a clothes handling drum and a drying system installed inside the housing 1. The drying system can deliver hot air into the clothes handling drum to dry the clothes inside the clothes handling drum.

[0050] The garment handling drum includes an outer drum 2 and an inner drum that is rotatably installed in the outer drum 2. The drying system is directly connected to the outer drum 2. The inner drum is used to hold clothes. The inner drum wall is provided with multiple through holes. When the drying mode is executed, the through holes can be used for ventilation. When the washing mode is executed, the through holes can be used for water flow.

[0051] Preferably, such as Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, the drying system of the present invention includes a drying device, which includes a drying duct 31, a fan 32 and a heat pump module. The air inlet 3111 of the drying duct 31 is connected to one end of the outer cylinder 2, the air outlet 3121 of the drying duct 31 is connected to the air intake of the fan 32, and the air exhaust port of the fan 32 is connected to the other end of the outer cylinder 2. The evaporator 33 and the condenser 34 of the heat pump module are installed in the drying duct 31, with the evaporator 33 located upstream of the condenser 34.

[0052] The heat pump module also includes a compressor 35, a refrigerant pipe 38 connecting the evaporator 33 and the condenser 34 to the compressor 35, and a throttling element installed on the refrigerant pipe 38. The compressor 35 is located outside the drying duct 31.

[0053] For example, the drying air duct 31 is located above the outer cylinder 2. An air outlet is provided on the cylinder wall of the outer cylinder 2. The air outlet is close to the rear end of the outer cylinder 2. A window gasket 22 is installed at the cylinder opening of the outer cylinder 2. A return air port is provided on the window gasket 22. The air inlet 3111 of the drying air duct 31 is connected to the air outlet through a corrugated pipe 36. The exhaust port of the fan 32 is connected to the return air port through a rubber pipe 37.

[0054] When the drying mode is executed, the fan 32 is started, and the humid air in the clothes handling drum is discharged through the air outlet and enters the drying air duct 31. After being condensed and dehumidified by the evaporator 33, it is heated by the condenser 34 and then flows back to the clothes handling drum from the return air outlet, completing one cycle.

[0055] It should be noted that the present invention is not limited to placing the drying air duct 31 above the clothes processing drum. For example, the drying air duct 31 can also be placed below or behind the outer drum 2. Such adjustments and changes to the specific installation position of the drying air duct 31 do not deviate from the principle and scope of the present invention. Of course, the present invention preferably places the drying air duct 31 above the clothes processing drum, which is beneficial to make full use of the space above the clothes processing drum and optimize the layout.

[0056] Furthermore, it should be noted that those skilled in the art can also interchange the positions of the air outlet and the air return outlet on the outer cylinder 2, such as air outlet at the front end and air inlet at the rear end of the clothing treatment cylinder. Alternatively, the air outlet can be located on the rear wall of the outer cylinder 2, etc. Such flexible adjustments and changes do not deviate from the principles and scope of the present invention and should all be limited to the protection scope of the present invention.

[0057] Furthermore, it should be noted that those skilled in the art can also connect the air intake of the fan 32 to the air outlet on the clothes processing drum, and then connect the exhaust port of the fan 32 to the air inlet 3111 of the drying duct 31. Alternatively, the drying duct 31 can be set into two sections, with the fan 32 installed between the two sections. Or, the fan 32 can be directly installed inside the drying duct 31, etc. Such adjustments and changes to the installation position of the fan 32 do not deviate from the principles and scope of the present invention and should all be limited to the protection scope of the present invention.

[0058] Furthermore, it should be noted that those skilled in the art can also omit the heat pump module in practical applications and use other types of dehumidifying and heating components to dehumidify and heat the airflow in the drying duct 31. Such flexible adjustments and changes do not deviate from the principles and scope of the present invention and should be limited to the protection scope of the present invention.

[0059] Preferably, such as Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, the drying system of the washer-dryer of the present invention also includes a lint collection device 4, which is installed in the drying air duct 31.

[0060] The lint collection device 4 is used to filter the airflow entering the drying duct 31. When the airflow in the drying duct 31 flows through the lint collection device 4, the lint and other impurities carried by the airflow are intercepted by the lint collection device 4. The filtered lint is stored in the lint collection device 4. The lint collection device 4 is preferably located upstream of the evaporator 33.

[0061] Preferably, such as Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, the lint collection device 4 of the present invention is detachably installed in the drying air duct 31. The drying air duct 31 is provided with an insertion interface 3112, and the lint collection device 4 is inserted into the drying air duct 31 through the insertion interface 3112.

[0062] When it is necessary to clean the lint in the lint collection device 4, the lint collection device 4 can be removed from the drying air duct 31. A pressure sensor can be installed upstream and downstream of the lint collection device 4. The pressure difference between the two sensors determines whether the lint collection device 4 needs cleaning. When cleaning is required, a prompt message can be sent to the user to remind them to clean the lint collection device 4.

[0063] It should be noted that, in practical applications, those skilled in the art can place the connector 3112 on the side of the drying duct 31, or on the top surface of the drying duct 31, etc. Such adjustments and changes to the specific location of the connector 3112 do not deviate from the principles and scope of the present invention and should be limited to the protection scope of the present invention.

[0064] Preferably, such as Figure 1 and Figure 3 As shown, the drying air duct 31 is provided with an interface 3112 on the side facing the front panel of the housing 1, and the front panel is provided with a disassembly port 11 at the position opposite to the interface 3112, and the lint collection device 4 can be pulled out from the disassembly port 11.

[0065] When it is necessary to clean the lint collection device 4, the user can pull out the lint collection device 4 from the disassembly port 11 on the front panel of the housing 1 for easy operation. After cleaning the lint collection device 4, the user can then insert the lint collection device 4 back in through the disassembly port 11.

[0066] Preferably, such as Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, the drying duct 31 of the present invention includes a first duct 311 and a second duct 312 that are connected to each other. The first duct 311 extends in the front-to-back direction, and the second duct 312 extends in the left-to-right direction and is close to the front end of the clothes processing drum. The air inlet 3111 of the drying duct 31 is located in the first duct 311, and the air outlet 3121 of the drying duct 31 is located in the second duct 312. The lint collection device 4 is installed in the first duct 311, and the evaporator 33 and condenser 34 of the heat pump module are installed in the second duct 312.

[0067] For example, both the first air duct 311 and the second air duct 312 are located above the outer cylinder 2. The first air duct 311 is located at the upper left of the outer cylinder 2 and extends from the rear end of the outer cylinder 2 to the front end. An air inlet port 3111 is provided on the bottom wall of the rear end of the first air duct 311. An air outlet on the outer cylinder 2 is located directly below the air inlet port 3111. The air outlet is connected to the upper air inlet port 3111 through a corrugated pipe 36. An insertion interface 3112 is provided at the front end of the first air duct 311. The lint collection device 4 is inserted into the first air duct 311 from the front end of the first air duct 311. The left end of the second air duct 312 is connected to the first air duct 311. An air outlet port 3121 is provided at the right end of the second air duct 312. A fan 32 is located at the upper right of the outer cylinder 2. The air inlet of the fan 32 is connected to the air outlet port 3121 on the second air duct 312.

[0068] It should be noted that, in practical applications, those skilled in the art may also place the first air duct 311 in the upper right of the garment processing drum, and correspondingly place the fan 32 in the upper left of the garment processing drum. Such flexible adjustments and changes do not deviate from the principles and scope of the present invention and should be limited to the protection scope of the present invention.

[0069] Preferably, such as Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, the lint collection device 4 of the present invention includes a housing 41 and a filter screen installed on the housing 41. The housing 41 has an air inlet 411 at a first end along a first direction, and an air outlet 412 between the first end and the second end of the housing 41. The filter screen is installed at the air outlet 412.

[0070] For example, the outer shell 41 is a cuboid structure, with the first direction being the length direction of the outer shell 41. The first end of the outer shell 41 has an air inlet 411, and the second end of the outer shell 41 is sealed. An air outlet 412 is located on the side plate between the first end and the second end. A filter screen is installed at the air outlet 412. After the airflow enters the first air duct 311, it enters the outer shell 41 from the air inlet 411, and then exits from the air outlet 412 and enters the second air duct 312. When the airflow passes through the filter screen at the air outlet 412, the lint carried by the airflow is intercepted by the filter screen and remains inside the outer shell 41.

[0071] Preferably, such as Figures 4 to 8 As shown, the lint collection device 4 of the present invention further includes a scraping component located at the second end of the housing 41. The scraping component is movable in a first direction toward the first end of the housing 41 to push the lint inside the housing 41 toward the air inlet 411.

[0072] By providing a scraping component inside the housing 41, when it is necessary to clean the lint inside the housing 41, the scraping component can push the lint inside the housing 41 toward the air inlet 411 of the housing 41, which facilitates the cleaning of lint, improves the cleaning effect of lint, and enhances the user experience. In addition, as the scraping component moves toward the first end of the housing 41, it can also scrape off the lint on the filter screen.

[0073] Preferably, such as Figures 4 to 8 As shown, the scraping assembly of the present invention includes a scraping member 42 and a handle 43. The scraping member 42 is located inside the housing 41, and a first member 44 is disposed on the scraping member 42 (see details). Figure 6 The handle 43 is located outside the housing 41, and a second component 45 is provided on the handle 43 (see details). Figure 6 At least one of the first component 44 and the second component 45 has a magnetic force, so that the first component 44 and the second component 45 attract each other, thereby enabling the handle 43 to drive the scraping component 42 to move along the first direction toward the first end of the housing 41, thereby causing the scraping component 42 to push the wire debris inside the housing 41 toward the air inlet 411.

[0074] In other words, the handle 43 does not contact the scraping member 42. This eliminates the need to make holes in the housing 41 to connect the handle 43 and the scraping member 42. This design avoids air leakage, which helps ensure drying efficiency and prevents lint from leaking out.

[0075] For example, the edge of the scraping member 42 is attached to the inner wall of the housing 41, and the handle 43 is located on the top surface of the housing 41. As the handle 43 moves with the scraping member 42, the scraping member 42 pushes the wire debris inside the housing 41 toward the air inlet of the housing 41. By making the edge of the scraping member 42 attached to the inner wall of the housing 41, it is beneficial to clean the wire debris inside the housing 41.

[0076] It should be noted that the present invention does not limit the specific structural form of the scraping component 42. For example, the scraping component 42 can be configured as a plate structure, a block structure, or a frame structure, etc.

[0077] Furthermore, it should be noted that, in practical applications, those skilled in the art can set one of the first component 44 and the second component 45 as a magnet or electromagnet, and set the other of the first component 44 and the second component 45 as a metal component (such as an iron block) capable of generating an attractive force with a magnet. Alternatively, both the first component 44 and the second component 45 can be set as magnets or electromagnets, etc. Such flexible adjustments and changes do not deviate from the principles and scope of the present invention and should all be limited to the protection scope of the present invention.

[0078] Preferably, such as Figure 6 As shown, both the first component 44 and the second component 45 are magnets.

[0079] By setting both the first component 44 and the second component 45 as magnets, the attraction between the first component 44 and the second component 45 is stronger, which helps the handle 43 to move smoothly with the scraping component 42.

[0080] Preferably, such as Figure 6 and Figure 7 As shown, the scraping member 42 of the present invention is provided with a first receiving and limiting groove 423 on the side facing the handle 43, and a first member 44 is located in the first receiving and limiting groove 423. The handle 43 is provided with a second receiving and limiting groove on the side facing the scraping member 42, and a second member 45 is located in the second receiving and limiting groove.

[0081] By installing the first component 44 and the second component 45 in the first receiving limiting groove 423 and the second receiving limiting groove respectively, it is possible to prevent the first component 44 from moving relative to the scraping component 42 and to prevent the second component 45 from moving relative to the handle 43, which is more conducive to the smooth movement of the handle 43 with the scraping component 42.

[0082] For example, the handle 43 is located above the scraping member 42, the first receiving and limiting groove 423 is provided on the top of the scraping member 42, the first receiving and limiting groove 423 is a rectangular groove, and a rectangular magnet block (i.e., the first member 44) is installed in the first receiving and limiting groove 423. The second receiving and limiting groove is provided on the lower surface of the handle 43, the second receiving and limiting groove is also a rectangular groove, and a rectangular magnet block (i.e., the second member 45) is also installed in the second receiving and limiting groove.

[0083] Preferably, such as Figure 4 and Figure 8 As shown, the outer casing 41 is provided with a first guide structure 414, and the handle 43 is provided with a second guide structure 431. The first guide structure 414 and the second guide structure 431 cooperate to enable the handle 43 to reciprocate only in the first direction.

[0084] The handle 43 is guided and limited by the first guide structure 414 and the second guide structure 431, which facilitates the operation of the handle 43.

[0085] For example, the first guide structure 414 is disposed on the top of the housing 41. With the cooperation of the first guide structure 414 and the second guide structure 431, the handle 43 can only move along the length direction of the housing 41, and cannot move along the width direction of the housing 41 or along the height direction of the housing 41.

[0086] It should be noted that the present invention does not limit the specific structural form of the first guide structure 414 and the second guide structure 431. For example, the first guide structure 414 and the second guide structure 431 can be configured as a structure in which the guide groove and the guide rib cooperate, or as a structure in which the guide rod and the guide hole cooperate, or as a structure in which the guide groove and the guide post cooperate, etc.

[0087] Preferably, such as Figure 4 and Figure 8 As shown, a strip-shaped groove 415 is provided on the top of the outer shell 41. The strip-shaped groove 415 extends along the first direction. The first guide structure 414 is a guide groove formed on the side wall of the strip-shaped groove 415. The guide groove extends along the first direction. The second guide structure 431 is a guide rib adapted to the guide groove. The guide rib is inserted into the guide groove.

[0088] For example, a strip groove 415 is formed on the upper surface of the housing 41 and extends along the length of the housing 41. A guide groove is formed on each of the two side walls of the strip groove 415. A guide rib is provided on each side of the handle 43, and the two guide ribs are respectively inserted into the corresponding guide grooves.

[0089] Preferably, such as Figures 4 to 6 As shown, the scraping assembly of the present invention also includes a button 46 mounted on the housing 41. The button 46 is provided with a first locking structure 461, and the scraping member 42 is provided with a second locking structure 422. The first locking structure 461 and the second locking structure 422 cooperate to lock the scraping member 42 in the initial position.

[0090] By setting button 46, it is possible to prevent the scraping component 42 from moving automatically in the first direction.

[0091] For example, a mounting hole is provided on the top of the housing 41, and a mounting cavity 416 is provided inside the housing 41 (see details). Figure 6 The mounting cavity 416 is located directly below the mounting hole. The button 46 is inserted vertically into the mounting cavity 416 through the mounting hole. The top surface of the button 46 is basically flush with the top surface of the outer shell 41. When it is necessary to scrape the wire debris inside the outer shell 41 by scraping the scraping member 42, press the button 46 down to separate the first locking structure 461 on the button 46 from the second locking structure 422 on the scraping member 42. Then, the scraping member 42 can be moved along the first direction by the handle 43.

[0092] It should be noted that in order to prevent air leakage at the mounting hole, a sealing structure needs to be set. For example, a rubber sleeve can be installed on the top of button 46, and the rubber sleeve can be sealed and fitted to the inner wall of the mounting hole, etc.

[0093] Furthermore, it should be noted that the present invention does not limit the structural form of the first locking structure 461 and the second locking structure 422. For example, it can be configured as a structure in which the lock hook and the lock hole cooperate, or as a structure in which two lock hooks cooperate, etc. Such adjustments and changes to the specific structural forms of the first locking structure 461 and the second locking structure 422 do not deviate from the principle and scope of the present invention, and should all be limited to the protection scope of the present invention.

[0094] Preferably, such as Figure 6 As shown, the first locking structure 461 is a first locking hook, and the second locking structure 422 is a second locking hook that cooperates with the first locking hook.

[0095] For example, the button 46 is provided with two first hooks, which are distributed vertically at intervals and both facing upwards. The scraping member 42 is provided with two second hooks, which are distributed vertically at intervals and both facing downwards. The two first hooks hook the corresponding second hooks respectively.

[0096] Preferably, such as Figure 6 As shown, the scraping assembly of the present invention also includes an elastic reset member 47 installed between the housing 41 and the button 46. After the button 46 is pressed, the elastic reset member 47 is compressed or stretched, and the elastic reset member 47 resets the button 46 after the button 46 is released from pressure.

[0097] For example, the elastic reset member 47 is configured as a vertical spring. A limiting post 417 is provided on the bottom wall of the mounting cavity 416 of the housing 41. The bottom end of the button 46 is provided with a slot 462, which extends along the length of the button 46. The elastic reset member 47 is inserted into the slot 462. The top end of the elastic reset member 47 abuts against the top wall of the slot 462, and the bottom end of the elastic reset member 47 is sleeved on the limiting post 417 and abuts against the bottom wall of the mounting cavity 416. When the user presses the button 46 down, the button 46 moves vertically downward, and the elastic reset member 47 is compressed. When the user stops pressing the button 46, the elastic reset member 47 pushes the button 46 upward, so that the button 46 is reset.

[0098] It should be noted that the elastic reset component 47 is not limited to the spring mentioned above. For example, it can also be set as a rubber column or an elastic rope. If it is an elastic rope, the top end of the elastic rope can be fixedly connected to the inner wall of the outer casing 41, and the bottom end of the elastic rope can be fixedly connected to the button 46. When the button 46 is pressed down, the elastic rope is stretched. After the button 46 is released, the elastic rope contracts, thereby resetting the button 46. Such adjustments and changes to the specific structural form of the elastic reset component 47 do not deviate from the principle and scope of the present invention and should all be limited to the protection scope of the present invention.

[0099] Preferably, such as Figure 5 and Figure 7 As shown, the scraping member 42 of the present invention is provided with a guide cylinder 421, and the outer shell 41 is provided with a guide rod 413 adapted to the guide cylinder 421. The guide rod 413 extends along a first direction, and the guide cylinder 421 is sleeved on the guide rod 413. The guide cylinder 421 and the guide rod 413 are guided and cooperated to guide the scraping member 42 during its movement along the first direction.

[0100] For example, three guide rods 413 are provided on the outer shell 41, two of which are located at the top, near the top of the outer shell 41 and spaced apart along the width direction of the outer shell 41, and the remaining guide rod 413 is located at the bottom, near the inner bottom wall of the outer shell 41 and in the middle of the inner bottom wall. That is, the three guide rods 413 are distributed in an inverted triangular shape. The number of guide cylinders 421 is also three, and the distribution is the same as that of the guide rods 413, that is, they are also distributed in an inverted triangular shape.

[0101] It should be noted that, in practical applications, those skilled in the art can also arrange the three guide cylinders 421 and the three guide rods 413 in a triangular pattern. Furthermore, the number of guide cylinders 421 and the number of guide rods 413 are not limited to the three mentioned above. For example, they can also be set to one, two, or four, etc. Such flexible adjustments and changes do not deviate from the principles and scope of the present invention and should all be limited to the protection scope of the present invention.

[0102] During the movement of the scraping component 42 along the first direction, the guide cylinder moves along the length of the guide rod to prevent the scraping component 42 from shifting.

[0103] Preferably, such as Figure 5 As shown, the scraping assembly of the present invention further includes an elastic drive member 48 disposed between the scraping member 42 and the housing 41. The elastic drive member 48 extends along a first direction. When the scraping member 42 is in the initial position, the elastic drive member 48 is compressed or stretched. When the first locking structure 461 on the button 46 is separated from the second locking structure 422 on the scraping member 42, the elastic drive member 48 can push or pull the scraping member 42 to move along the first direction toward the first end of the housing 41.

[0104] In other words, when button 46 is pressed, the scraping member 42 can also move along the first direction under the action of the elastic drive member 48.

[0105] For example, the elastic drive member 48 is configured as a spring, which is sleeved on the guide rod 413. The elastic drive member 48 is located between the guide cylinder 421 and the outer shell 41, specifically between the second end of the guide cylinder 421 and the outer shell 41. The two ends of the elastic drive member 48 abut against the guide cylinder 421 and the outer shell 41, respectively. When the scraping member 42 is in the initial position, the elastic drive member 48 is in a compressed state. After the user presses down the button 46, the first locking structure 461 on the button 46 separates from the second locking structure 422 on the scraping member 42, and the elastic drive member 48 pushes the scraping member 42 to move toward the first end of the outer shell 41.

[0106] It should be noted that, in practical applications, those skilled in the art can also place the elastic drive member 48 between the guide cylinder 421 and the first end of the housing 41. In this case, when the scraping member 42 is in the initial position, the elastic drive member 48 is in a stretched state. After the user presses down the button 46, the first locking structure 461 on the button 46 separates from the second locking structure 422 on the scraping member 42, and the elastic drive member 48 pulls the scraping member 42 toward the first end of the housing 41.

[0107] Furthermore, it should be noted that the elastic drive member 48 is not limited to the spring described above; for example, it can also be an elastic member such as a rubber column, a rubber sleeve, or an elastic rope. Of course, the present invention preferably uses a spring as the elastic drive member 48.

[0108] Furthermore, it should be noted that when multiple guide rods 413 are provided, it is preferable to sleeve an elastic driving member 48 on each guide rod 413. For example, there are three guide rods 413 and three elastic driving members 48, which are respectively sleeved on the corresponding guide rods 413. Such flexible adjustment and change do not deviate from the principle and scope of the present invention and should be limited to the protection scope of the present invention.

[0109] Preferably, the washer-dryer of the present invention further includes a detergent dispensing device installed inside the casing, which is used to dispense detergent into the inner drum.

[0110] For example, the detergent dispensing device is installed below the first air duct and shares a disassembly port with the lint collection device. That is, the user can pull out the detergent dispensing device through the disassembly port and then add detergent into the detergent dispensing device.

[0111] Preferably, such as Figure 1 As shown, the washer-dryer of the present invention has an indicator light 5 on its housing 1. This indicator light 5 can be used to remind the user to clean the lint collection device 4, and also to remind the user to add detergent to the detergent dispensing device.

[0112] Based on any of the washer-dryer combos described above, the present invention also provides a control method for the washer-dryer combo, the control method of the present invention comprising:

[0113] When the lint collection device needs to be cleaned, the indicator light will illuminate according to the first indicator scheme.

[0114] When the detergent dispensing device needs to add detergent, the indicator light will illuminate according to the second indicator scheme.

[0115] In other words, the indicator light has two different prompting schemes: the first prompting scheme and the second prompting scheme, which are used to remind users to clean the lint collection device and to add detergent to the detergent dispensing device, respectively.

[0116] In practical applications, those skilled in the art can set the first prompting scheme to make the prompt light flash, and the second prompting scheme to make the prompt light stay on. Alternatively, the first prompting scheme can be set to make the prompt light red, and the second prompting scheme can be set to make the prompt light blue, etc. Such flexible adjustments and changes do not deviate from the principles and scope of the present invention and should all be limited to the protection scope of the present invention.

[0117] Preferably, the step of "making the indicator light provide a prompt according to the first prompting scheme" specifically includes: making the indicator light flash and display a first color.

[0118] For example, the first color is red. When the washer-dryer detects that the lint collection device needs to be cleaned, the indicator light flashes and displays red to remind the user to clean the lint collection device as soon as possible.

[0119] It should be noted that the first color is not limited to red as mentioned above. For example, it can also be set to orange, etc. In addition, the specific color of the first color can be selected and determined by the user, for example, through a mobile APP or the control panel of the washer-dryer.

[0120] Preferably, the step of "making the indicator light provide a prompt according to the second prompt scheme" specifically includes: making the indicator light flash and display a second color.

[0121] For example, the second color is blue. When the washer-dryer detects that the detergent dispensing device is low on liquid (for example, by installing a liquid level detection sensor in the detergent dispensing device to detect the liquid level of the detergent), the indicator light flashes and displays blue to remind the user to add detergent to the detergent dispensing device as soon as possible.

[0122] It should be noted that the second color is not limited to the blue mentioned above. For example, it can also be set to green, etc. In addition, the specific color of the second color can be selected and determined by the user, for example, through a mobile APP or the control panel of the washer-dryer.

[0123] Preferably, the indicator light of the present invention is elongated, and the control method of the present invention further includes: during the operation of the washer-dryer, matching the illumination length of the indicator light with the progress of the operation program of the washer-dryer.

[0124] In other words, the length of time the indicator light is lit can reflect the progress of the running program; the longer the indicator light is lit, the faster the progress.

[0125] Preferably, the control method of the present invention further includes: causing the indicator light to display different colors in different light segments.

[0126] For example, the indicator light includes four light segments, namely a first light segment, a second light segment, a third light segment, and a fourth light segment. During the washing stage, only the first light segment is lit and displays red. During the rinsing stage, the second light segment is also lit and displays orange. During the spin-drying stage, the third light segment is also lit and displays blue. During the drying stage, the fourth light segment is also lit and displays green.

[0127] Finally, it should be noted that the above control methods are all executed by the controller of the washer-dryer combo.

[0128] Those skilled in the art will understand that although some embodiments described herein include certain features included in other embodiments but not others, combinations of features from different embodiments are intended to be within the scope of this application and form different embodiments. For example, any of the claimed embodiments in the claims of this application can be used in any combination.

[0129] The technical solution of the present invention has been described above with reference to the preferred embodiments shown in the accompanying drawings. However, it will be readily understood by those skilled in the art that the scope of protection of the present invention is obviously not limited to these specific embodiments. Without departing from the principles of the present invention, those skilled in the art can make equivalent changes or substitutions to the relevant technical features, and the technical solutions after such changes or substitutions will all fall within the scope of protection of the present invention.

Claims

1. A control method for a washer-dryer combo, characterized in that, The washer-dryer includes a housing (1) and an outer drum (2), an inner drum, a drying device, a lint collection device (4), and a detergent dispensing device installed inside the housing (1). The inner drum is rotatably installed in the outer drum (2). The drying device includes a drying duct (31) communicating with the outer drum (2). The lint collection device (4) is detachably installed in the drying duct (31). The detergent dispensing device is used to dispense detergent into the inner drum. An indicator light is provided on the housing (1). The control method includes: When the lint collection device needs to be cleaned, the indicator light will illuminate according to the first indicator scheme. When the detergent dispensing device needs to add detergent, the indicator light will illuminate according to the second indicator scheme.

2. The control method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The steps of "making the indicator light provide a prompt according to the first prompting scheme" specifically include: The indicator light flashes and displays a first color.

3. The control method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The steps of "making the indicator light provide a prompt according to the second prompting scheme" specifically include: The indicator light flashes and displays a second color.

4. The control method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The indicator light is elongated, and the control method further includes: During the operation of the washer-dryer combo, the duration of the indicator light's illumination is matched with the progress of the washer-dryer combo's operating program.

5. The control method according to claim 4, characterized in that, The control method further includes: making the indicator light display different colors in different light segments.

6. The control method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The lint collection device (4) includes a housing (41) and a filter screen, a scraping component (42), and a handle (43) mounted on the housing (41). The outer casing (41) has an air inlet (411) at its first end along a first direction, and an air outlet (412) is located between the first end and the second end of the outer casing (41). The filter screen is installed at the air outlet (412). The scraping member (42) is located inside the outer casing (41) and near the second end of the outer casing (41). A first member (44) is provided on the scraping member (42). The handle (43) is located outside the outer casing (41). A second member (45) is provided on the handle (43). At least one of the first component (44) and the second component (45) has a magnetic force, so that the first component (44) and the second component (45) attract each other, thereby enabling the handle (43) to drive the scraping component (42) to move along the first direction toward the first end of the housing (41), thereby causing the scraping component (42) to push the lint inside the housing (41) toward the air inlet (411).

7. The control method according to claim 6, characterized in that, The lint collection device (4) further includes a button (46), an elastic reset member (47), and an elastic drive member (48) mounted on the housing (41). The button (46) is provided with a first locking structure (461), and the scraping member (42) is provided with a second locking structure (422). The first locking structure (461) and the second locking structure (422) cooperate to lock the scraping member (42) in the initial position. The elastic reset member (47) is installed between the housing (41) and the button (46). When the button (46) is pressed, the elastic reset member (47) is compressed or stretched. When the button (46) is released from pressure, the elastic reset member (47) resets the button (46). The elastic drive member (48) is installed between the housing (41) and the scraping member (42). The elastic drive member (48) extends along the first direction. When the scraping member (42) is in the initial position, the elastic drive member (48) is compressed or stretched. When the first locking structure (461) separates from the second locking structure (422), the elastic drive member (48) can push or pull the scraping member (42) to move along the first direction toward the first end of the housing (41); and / or The outer casing (41) is provided with a first guide structure (414), and the handle (43) is provided with a second guide structure (431). The first guide structure (414) and the second guide structure (431) cooperate to enable the handle (43) to move only in the first direction; and / or Both the first component (44) and the second component (45) are configured as magnets.

8. The control method according to claim 7, characterized in that, A guide rod (413) is provided on the outer casing (41), the guide rod (413) extends along the first direction, and a guide cylinder (421) adapted to the guide rod (413) is provided on the scraping member (42), the guide cylinder (421) is sleeved on the guide rod (413), the guide cylinder (421) cooperates with the guide rod (413) to guide the scraping member (42) as it moves along the first direction, the elastic drive member (48) is sleeved on the guide rod (413) and located between the guide cylinder (421) and the outer casing (41); and / or Both the elastic reset member (47) and the elastic drive member (48) are configured as springs.

9. The control method according to claim 8, characterized in that, The number of guide rods (413) is three and they are arranged in a triangular or inverted triangular shape. The number of elastic drive members (48) is three and they are respectively sleeved on the corresponding guide rods (413). The number of guide cylinders (421) is three and they are respectively sleeved on the corresponding guide rods (413).

10. A washer-dryer combo machine, comprising a controller, characterized in that, The controller is configured to perform the control method according to any one of claims 1 to 9.

Images