Caster lifting mechanism for household appliance and household appliance system

Abstract

The present application relates to the technical field of household appliances, and particularly provides a caster lifting mechanism for a household appliance and a household appliance system, aiming to solve the problems of deformation of the base of the household appliance with the caster lifting mechanism, which leads to the failure of the caster to be used normally and the loud noise during movement. To this end, the caster lifting mechanism comprises a base, a roller assembly and a protruding structure. The roller assembly is arranged at the bottom of the base and is configured to be able to be unfolded and retracted. The caster lifting mechanism is configured to support the household appliance when the roller assembly is unfolded. The protruding structure is arranged at the top of the base and is configured to be able to abut against the bottom of the household appliance. The caster lifting mechanism can avoid the deformation of the base when the household appliance is pushed to move, thereby ensuring the normal use of the roller assembly, improving the stability and reducing the noise.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of household appliance technology, specifically providing a caster lifting mechanism and household appliance system for household appliances. Background Technology

[0002] As an indispensable home appliance in modern families, washing machines have improved people's quality of life. With the diversification of usage scenarios, how to make washing machines more efficient and convenient to serve the needs of different families has become a new challenge.

[0003] Existing washing machines are equipped with adjustable casters at the bottom for easy movement. When the washing machine needs to be moved, the casters can be lowered to contact the ground for easy pushing; when not in use, the casters can be raised and retracted to place the washing machine stably on the ground. In a previously unpublished application, the casters are connected to the washing machine via a base. However, during movement, the weight of the washing machine is concentrated on the casters, causing the base to deform easily. Deformation affects the normal use of the adjustable casters and also generates noise due to vibration during movement, impacting the user experience. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The present invention aims to solve the above-mentioned technical problems, namely, the problems that the base for installing height-adjustable casters in the prior art is prone to deformation, which leads to the casters being unable to be used normally and the noise being excessive during movement.

[0005] In a first aspect, the present invention provides a caster lifting mechanism for a household appliance, the caster lifting mechanism comprising: a base; a roller assembly disposed at the bottom of the base and configured to be able to unfold and retract, the caster lifting mechanism being configured to enable the roller assembly to support the household appliance when the roller assembly is unfolded; and a protruding structure disposed at the top of the base and configured to abut against the bottom of the household appliance.

[0006] When the above technical solution is adopted, the roller assembly can be unfolded and used to support the household appliance when it needs to be moved, so as to facilitate the movement. At this time, the raised structure on the top of the base abuts against the bottom of the household appliance, preventing the base and the bottom of the household appliance from being suspended and deformed. This ensures the normal use of the roller assembly, such as ensuring that the roller assembly can support the household appliance when unfolded, and ensuring the normal unfolding and retraction of the roller assembly, improving the stability of use, and also avoiding the deformation of the base caused by vibration during the movement, and reducing the noise generated by the collision between the base and the bottom of the household appliance.

[0007] In the specific embodiment of the caster lifting mechanism for household appliances described above, a mounting groove is provided on the top surface of the base, and the protruding structure is installed in the mounting groove; and / or foam cotton is provided between the protruding structure and the base, and the foam cotton is bonded to the base and the protruding structure respectively.

[0008] When the above technical solution is adopted, the mounting groove is used to limit the installation position of the protruding structure, preventing incorrect installation from affecting the performance. The protruding structure and the base are fixed together by bonding with foam cotton, which facilitates the connection between the protruding structure and the base, and also effectively reduces vibration and noise.

[0009] In the specific embodiment of the caster lifting mechanism for household appliances described above, the protruding structure is integrally formed with the base; and / or the caster lifting mechanism further includes a telescopic foot, which is connected to the base for automatically leveling the household appliance.

[0010] With the above technical solution, the raised structure and the base are integrally molded, which facilitates processing. The telescopic feet automatically level the appliance, eliminating the need for manual operation compared to feet that adjust height by rotation. Leveling is simple, convenient, and effective. Furthermore, the telescopic feet automatically level the appliance after each movement, making it easier to move.

[0011] In the specific embodiment of the caster lifting mechanism for household appliances described above, the front and rear parts of the base are respectively provided with the roller assembly, and the protruding structure is located at the rear roller assembly.

[0012] When the above technical solution is adopted, roller assemblies are provided at both the front and rear of the base, which can improve the support stability of the roller assemblies for household appliances. At the same time, since the center of gravity of household appliances is usually rearward, the rear roller assembly is subjected to greater force. The protruding structure is located at the rear roller assembly, which can effectively prevent the base from deforming and improve the stability of the caster lifting mechanism.

[0013] In the specific embodiment of the caster lifting mechanism for household appliances described above, the caster lifting mechanism further includes a movable bracket, the roller assembly includes a roller and a connecting arm, one end of the connecting arm is rotatably connected to the roller, and the other end of the connecting arm is rotatably connected to the base through a first connecting shaft, and the movable bracket is configured to move along the base to drive the connecting arm to rotate.

[0014] When the above technical solution is adopted, the connecting arm is rotated by moving the movable bracket, which in turn drives the roller to descend, so as to realize the unfolding of the roller assembly. When the roller descends, it can support the household appliance and facilitate its movement.

[0015] In the specific embodiment of the caster lifting mechanism for household appliances described above, the base includes a first top plate, two opposite sides of the first top plate extending downward to form first side plates, the first top plate and the first side plates on both sides forming a sliding groove, and the movable bracket being movably connected to the sliding groove; the movable bracket includes a second top plate, the second top plate extending downward to form a second side plate, the second side plate having an inclined groove, the first side plate having a cut, the connecting arm being rotatably connected to the roller via a second connecting shaft, the second connecting shaft being located within the inclined groove and within the cut.

[0016] With the above technical solution, the slide can provide a limit for the movement of the movable bracket, and the base structure can improve the strength of the base, further reduce the risk of base deformation, and improve the stability of the caster lifting mechanism. When it is necessary to move the household appliance, the movable bracket is moved so that the second connecting shaft abuts against the inclined surface of the slide. As the movable bracket moves, the slide pushes the second connecting shaft to move downward from the cut, thereby driving the connecting arm to rotate and unfold, and thus driving the roller to move downward. After the household appliance is moved into place, the movable bracket is moved in the opposite direction. Since the roller assembly supports the household appliance at this time, the second connecting shaft abuts against the inclined surface of the slide under the gravity of the household appliance. As the movable bracket moves, the second connecting shaft moves upward along the slide from the cut, thereby driving the connecting arm to rotate and retract, and thus driving the roller to move upward.

[0017] In the specific embodiment of the caster lifting mechanism for household appliances described above, the protruding structure is provided on the top wall of the first top plate and located at the cutout; and / or the second side plate is provided with a strip hole, through which the first connecting shaft passes and connects to the first side plate.

[0018] When using the above technical solution, the strength of the area with the cut on the base is relatively low, making it more prone to deformation. Therefore, placing the protruding structure at the cut can effectively improve the strength at this location, further enhancing the stability of the caster lifting mechanism. When the movable bracket moves, the first connecting shaft moves within the slotted hole. The movement of the first connecting shaft is limited by the slotted hole, thereby limiting the movement of the movable bracket.

[0019] In the specific embodiment of the caster lifting mechanism for household appliances described above, a pressing structure is sleeved on the first connecting shaft, and the pressing structure is used to provide a force for the movable bracket to adhere to the base.

[0020] When the above technical solution is adopted, the pressing structure provides a force for the mobile bracket to adhere to the base, so that the mobile bracket can adhere to the base whether the roller assembly is unfolded or retracted, thus avoiding problems such as resonance noise.

[0021] In the specific embodiment of the caster lifting mechanism for household appliances described above, the caster lifting mechanism further includes a handle structure. The handle structure includes a handle portion and a first connecting portion and a second connecting portion disposed on the handle portion. The first connecting portion is rotatably connected to the base via a third connecting shaft. The second connecting portion is provided with a fourth connecting shaft. The movable bracket is provided with a guide hole. The fourth connecting shaft is rotatably and movably disposed within the guide hole.

[0022] When the above technical solution is adopted, the user holds the handle and rotates the handle structure. The handle structure rotates around the third connecting shaft, which drives the fourth connecting shaft to rotate and move in the guide hole, thereby driving the moving bracket to move back and forth along the base.

[0023] In a second aspect, the present invention also provides a household appliance system, the household appliance system including a household appliance and a caster lifting mechanism, the base being mounted on the bottom of the household appliance.

[0024] Compared with the prior art, the beneficial effects of the caster lifting mechanism for household appliances provided by the present invention are as follows: When household appliances such as washing machines need to be moved, the roller assembly is unfolded and supports the household appliances to facilitate movement. At this time, the protruding structure at the top of the base abuts against the bottom of the household appliances, preventing the base and the bottom of the household appliances from being suspended and deformed, ensuring the normal use of the roller assembly. For example, it ensures that the roller assembly can support the household appliances when unfolded, and ensures the normal unfolding and retraction of the roller assembly, improving the stability of use. It also avoids the deformation of the base caused by vibration during movement and reduces the noise generated by the collision between the base and the bottom of the household appliances. Attached Figure Description

[0025] The preferred embodiments of the present invention are described below with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0026] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the caster lifting mechanism of the present invention;

[0027] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the caster lifting mechanism of the present invention installed at the bottom of a household appliance;

[0028] Figure 3 This is a structural schematic diagram of the caster lifting mechanism of the present invention from another angle;

[0029] Figure 4 This is a bottom view of the caster lifting mechanism of the present invention;

[0030] Figure 5 yes Figure 4 A schematic diagram of the AA cross-sectional structure;

[0031] Figure 6 yes Figure 2 A bottom view;

[0032] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the telescopic foot of the present invention.

[0033] Figure label:

[0034] 1-Base, 2-Roller assembly, 3-Protruding structure, 4-Moving bracket, 5-Handle structure, 6-Telescopic base, 7-Fixed base, 8-Washing machine, 11-Mounting groove, 12-First top plate, 13-First side plate, 14-Slide groove, 15-Slit, 16-First mounting plate, 17-Second mounting plate, 21-Roller, 22-Connecting arm, 23-First connecting shaft, 24-Second connecting shaft, 25-Pressing structure, 4 1-Second top plate, 42-Second side plate, 43-Inclined groove, 44-Strip hole, 45-Guide hole, 51-Handle part, 52-First connecting part, 53-Second connecting part, 54-Third connecting shaft, 55-Fourth connecting shaft, 56-Plastic sleeve, 61-Base seat, 62-Adjusting foot, 63-Telescopic cavity, 64-Communicating structure, 161-Groove, 162-Protrusion, 611-Liquid channel, 621-Receiving cavity. Detailed Implementation

[0035] Some 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. Those skilled in the art can make adjustments as needed to adapt to specific application scenarios.

[0036] It should be noted that in the description of this invention, terms such as "center," "upper," "lower," "left," "right," "front," "rear," "top," "bottom," "vertical," "horizontal," "inner," and "outer," which indicate direction or positional relationships, are based on the direction or positional relationships shown in the accompanying drawings. These are used merely for ease of description and do not indicate or imply that the relevant devices or elements must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on this invention. Furthermore, in the description of this invention, unless otherwise stated, "a plurality of" means two or more.

[0037] Furthermore, it should be noted that in the description of this invention, ordinal numbers such as "first," "second," etc., are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of indicated technical features. Moreover, in the description of this invention, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," and "linking" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; and they can also refer to the internal connection of two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this invention according to the specific circumstances.

[0038] As pointed out in the background art, existing technologies for installing adjustable casters are prone to deformation, leading to caster malfunction and excessive noise during movement. The aim is to address this by using a raised structure that allows the roller assembly to unfold and support the appliance when it needs to be moved, with the raised structure at the top of the base abutting against the bottom of the appliance. This prevents the base from being suspended and deformed, ensuring the normal operation of the roller assembly, improving stability, preventing base deformation due to vibration during movement, and reducing noise caused by collisions between the base and the bottom of the appliance.

[0039] First refer to Figure 1 and Figure 2 This invention provides a caster lifting mechanism for household appliances. The caster lifting mechanism includes a base 1, a roller assembly 2, and a protruding structure 3. The roller assembly 2 is located at the bottom of the base 1 and is configured to be unfolded and retracted. The caster lifting mechanism is configured to support the household appliance when the roller assembly 2 is unfolded. The protruding structure 3 is located at the top of the base 1 and is configured to abut against the bottom of the household appliance. Based on the above structural configuration, when a household appliance such as a washing machine 8 needs to be moved, the roller assembly 2 is unfolded to support the household appliance for easy movement. At this time, the protruding structure 3 at the top of the base 1 abuts against the bottom of the household appliance, preventing the base 1 from being suspended and deformed, ensuring the normal use of the roller assembly 2. This ensures that the roller assembly 2 can support the household appliance when unfolded and ensures the normal unfolding and retraction of the roller assembly 2, improving the stability of use. It also avoids deformation of the base 1 caused by vibration during movement and reduces noise caused by collision between the base 1 and the bottom of the household appliance.

[0040] The "bottom" mentioned above refers to the bottom of the household appliance when it is in use, after the caster lifting mechanism is connected to the household appliance.

[0041] It should be noted that the household appliance of this invention can be a washing machine 8, a washer-dryer combo, or a dryer, or a refrigerator, etc. For ease of explanation, the following description will use the washing machine 8 as an example. In the following text, "upper" and "lower" refer to the upper and lower parts of the washing machine 8 in its operating state, based on a vertical plane; "front" refers to the direction of the washing machine 8 near the door in its operating state, based on a horizontal plane; "rear" refers to the direction of the washing machine 8 near the back opposite the door in its operating state, based on a horizontal plane; "left" refers to the left side when the user stands directly in front of the washing machine 8 and faces it; and "right" refers to the right side when the user stands directly in front of the washing machine 8 and faces it. The bottom of the washing machine 8 can be equipped with one or more caster lifting mechanisms, as long as they facilitate the movement of the washing machine 8.

[0042] Optionally, the protruding structure 3 and the base 1 can be separate structures or integrally formed structures. When the protruding structure 3 and the base 1 are separate structures, the protruding structure 3 can be fixedly connected to the base 1 by means of bonding, welding, bolting, etc.; when the protruding structure 3 and the base 1 are integrally formed structures, the protruding structure 3 and the base 1 can be formed by stamping.

[0043] The number of roller assemblies 2 can be adjusted according to the number of caster lifting mechanisms, as long as the roller assemblies 2 can stably support the washing machine 8 when unfolded and facilitate the movement of the washing machine 8. As one possible implementation, two caster lifting mechanisms are installed at the bottom of the washing machine 8, with the length direction of the caster lifting mechanisms arranged along the front-rear direction of the washing machine 8, and two roller assemblies 2 are provided on each caster lifting mechanism.

[0044] Continue reading Figure 1 In one or more embodiments, a mounting groove 11 is provided on the top surface of the base 1, and the protruding structure 3 is installed in the mounting groove 11. Based on the above structural configuration, the mounting groove 11 is used to limit the installation position of the protruding structure 3, so as to avoid incorrect installation and affect the use effect.

[0045] Continue reading Figure 1 and Figure 2 In one or more embodiments, foam cotton is provided between the protruding structure 3 and the base 1, and the foam cotton is bonded to both the base 1 and the protruding structure 3. Based on the above structural configuration, the protruding structure 3 and the base 1 are fixed by bonding with foam cotton, which facilitates the connection between the protruding structure 3 and the base 1, and also effectively reduces vibration and noise.

[0046] It should be noted that the thickness of the foam can be adjusted according to the usage requirements. It should not be too thick, which would affect the arrangement of the raised structure 3, nor should it be too thin, which would affect the bonding strength between the raised structure 3 and the base 1. For example, the thickness of the foam can be set to 2-3mm.

[0047] Possibly, where the top of the base 1 does not have a protruding structure 3, foam cotton can be provided to further reduce the gap between the base 1 and the bottom of the washing machine 8, thereby further improving the stability of the caster lifting mechanism and reducing noise.

[0048] Optionally, the foam can be double-sided adhesive foam to facilitate its installation. Alternatively, adhesive can be applied between the raised structure 3 and the foam, and between the base 1 and the foam, to ensure bonding strength.

[0049] Continue reading Figure 1 In one or more embodiments, the protruding structure 3 and the base 1 are integrally formed. Based on the above structural configuration, the protruding structure 3 and the base 1 are integrally formed, which facilitates processing.

[0050] Continue reading Figure 1 In one or more embodiments, roller assemblies 2 are respectively provided at the front and rear of the base 1, and a protruding structure 3 is located at the rear roller assembly 2. Based on the above structural configuration, the presence of roller assemblies 2 at both the front and rear of the base 1 can improve the support stability of the roller assemblies 2 for the washing machine 8. Since the center of gravity of the washing machine 8 is usually rearward, the rear roller assembly 2 experiences greater force. The protruding structure 3, located at the rear roller assembly 2, can effectively prevent deformation of the base 1 and improve the stability of the caster lifting mechanism. Specifically, "at the rear roller assembly 2" can refer to the area between the connection point of the rear roller assembly 2 to the base 1 and the unfolded position of the rear roller assembly 2.

[0051] See below. Figures 1-5 In one or more embodiments, the caster lifting mechanism further includes a movable bracket 4, and the roller assembly 2 includes a roller 21 and a connecting arm 22. One end of the connecting arm 22 is rotatably connected to the roller 21, and the other end of the connecting arm 22 is rotatably connected to the base 1 via a first connecting shaft 23. The movable bracket 4 is configured to move along the base 1 to drive the connecting arm 22 to rotate. Based on the above structural configuration, the movable bracket 4 moves to drive the connecting arm 22 to rotate, thereby driving the roller 21 to descend, so as to realize the unfolding of the roller assembly 2. When the roller 21 descends, it can support the washing machine 8 and facilitate movement.

[0052] Furthermore, the base 1 includes a first top plate 12, with two opposite sides of the first top plate 12 extending downward to form first side plates 13. The first top plate 12 and the two side plates 13 together form a sliding groove 14, and the movable support 4 is movably connected to the sliding groove 14. Based on the above structural configuration, the sliding groove 14 can provide a limit for the movement of the movable support 4. At the same time, the base 1 is configured in the above structure to improve its strength, further reduce the risk of deformation of the base 1, and improve the stability of the caster lifting mechanism.

[0053] Furthermore, the movable support 4 includes a second top plate 41, which extends downward to form a second side plate 42. The second side plate 42 is provided with a groove 43, and the first side plate 13 is provided with a cut 15. The connecting arm 22 and the roller 21 are rotatably connected by a second connecting shaft 24, which is located in the groove 43 and in the cut 15. Based on the above structural configuration, when the washing machine 8 needs to be moved, the moving bracket 4 is moved so that the second connecting shaft 24 abuts against the inclined surface of the inclined groove 43. As the moving bracket 4 moves, the inclined groove 43 pushes the second connecting shaft 24 downward from the cut 15, thereby causing the connecting arm 22 to rotate and unfold, thus causing the roller 21 to move downward. After the washing machine 8 is in place, the moving bracket 4 moves in the opposite direction. Since the roller assembly 2 supports the washing machine 8 at this time, the second connecting shaft 24 abuts against the inclined surface of the inclined groove 43 under the gravity of the washing machine 8. As the moving bracket 4 moves, the second connecting shaft 24 moves upward along the inclined groove 43 from the cut 15, thereby causing the connecting arm 22 to rotate and retract, thus causing the roller 21 to move upward. The second side plate 42 allows the moving bracket 4 to fit fully against the first side plate 13, avoiding resonance noise caused by a large distance, and also improving the strength of the moving bracket 4.

[0054] It should be noted that the second side plate 42 can be formed on any side of the second top plate 41, or on both sides of the second top plate 41. When the second side plate 42 is formed on both sides of the second top plate 41, the inclined groove 43 can be provided on one side of the second side plate 42, or on both sides of the second side plate 42. Correspondingly, the cutout 15 and the inclined groove 43 are arranged accordingly.

[0055] Furthermore, the protruding structure 3 is provided on the top wall of the first top plate 12 and located at the cut 15. Based on the above structural arrangement, since the strength of the location where the cut 15 is located on the base 1 is relatively low and it is more prone to deformation, placing the protruding structure 3 at the cut 15 can effectively improve the strength at this location and further improve the stability of the caster lifting mechanism.

[0056] It should be noted that when two roller assemblies 2 are provided on a single caster lifting mechanism, the cutouts 15 are arranged in a one-to-one correspondence with the roller assemblies 2. The protruding structure 3 can be arranged at the two cutouts 15 or at any cutout 15, preferably at the rear cutout 15.

[0057] Furthermore, the second side plate 42 is provided with a strip hole 44, through which the first connecting shaft 23 passes and connects to the first side plate 13. Based on the above structural configuration, when the movable bracket 4 moves, the first connecting shaft 23 moves within the strip hole 44, and the movement of the first connecting shaft 23 is limited by the strip hole 44, thereby limiting the movement of the movable bracket 4.

[0058] Optionally, a pressing structure 25 is fitted onto the first connecting shaft 23. The pressing structure 25 is used to provide a force for the movable support 4 to adhere to the base 1. Based on the above structural configuration, the pressing structure 25 provides a force for the movable support 4 to adhere to the base 1, ensuring that the movable support 4 adheres to the base 1 regardless of whether the roller assembly 2 is in the extended or retracted state, thus avoiding problems such as resonance noise.

[0059] The pressing structure 25 can be a torsion spring, which is sleeved on the first connecting shaft 23. Both ends of the torsion spring abut against the bottom of the second top plate 41. Since the first connecting shaft 23 is rotatably connected to the base 1, the torsion spring, sleeved on the first connecting shaft 23 and with its two ends abutting against the bottom of the second top plate 41, can press the movable bracket 4 onto the base 1, avoiding resonance noise and other problems. The pressing structure 25 can also be other structures, such as an elastic hollow cylinder, sleeved on the first connecting shaft 23, with its wall abutting against the top of the second top plate 41.

[0060] The caster lifting mechanism also includes a handle structure 5, which includes a handle portion 51 and a first connecting portion 52 and a second connecting portion 53 disposed on the handle portion 51. The first connecting portion 52 is rotatably connected to the base 1 via a third connecting shaft 54. A fourth connecting shaft 55 is disposed on the second connecting portion 53. A guide hole 45 is provided on the movable bracket 4, and the fourth connecting shaft 55 is rotatably and movably disposed within the guide hole 45. Based on the above structural configuration, when the user grips the handle portion 51 and rotates the handle structure 5, the handle structure 5 rotates around the third connecting shaft 54, causing the fourth connecting shaft 55 to rotate and move within the guide hole 45, thereby causing the movable bracket 4 to reciprocate along the base 1.

[0061] Possibly, a limiting block is provided at the end of the fourth connecting shaft 55 to prevent the fourth connecting shaft 55 from coming out of the guide hole 45. The handle portion 51, the first connecting portion 52, and the second connecting portion 53 can be integrally formed and made of metal. A plastic sleeve 56 is fitted at the end of the handle portion 51, and a wave structure is formed on the plastic sleeve 56 so that the user can grip the handle portion 51.

[0062] It should be noted that the handle structure 5 can be omitted, and the user can move the movable bracket 4 by using tools or directly by hand. The pressing structure 25 can also be omitted, and the base 1 can only include the first top plate 12. The movable bracket 4 is provided with a guide block, and the base 1 is provided with a guide groove. The movement of the movable bracket 4 is limited by the sliding connection between the guide block and the guide groove, and the movable bracket 4 is ensured to fit in close with the base 1.

[0063] See below. Figures 1-7 In one or more embodiments, the caster lifting mechanism further includes a telescopic foot 6, which is connected to the base 1 and used to automatically level the washing machine 8. Based on the above structural configuration, automatic leveling via the telescopic foot 6 eliminates the need for manual operation compared to adjusting the height by rotation of the foot. Leveling is simple, convenient, and effective. Furthermore, the washing machine 8 can automatically level itself via the telescopic foot 6 after each movement into position, facilitating the movement of the washing machine 8.

[0064] Optionally, there are at least two telescopic feet 6. Each telescopic foot 6 includes a foot base 61, an adjusting foot 62, and a telescopic cavity 63. The foot base 61 is mounted on a second mounting plate and fitted onto the adjusting foot 62. The adjusting foot 62 is axially movable along the foot base 61 and has a receiving cavity 621. The telescopic cavity 63 is disposed in the receiving cavity 621 and configured to drive the adjusting foot 62 to move. The telescopic cavities 63 of at least two telescopic feet 6 are connected by a connecting structure 64. The connecting structure 64 can be a pipe, or it can be an interconnected pipe and a liquid storage tank, etc. The telescopic cavity 63 can be a corrugated cavity made of flexible material, but this is not a limitation; the telescopic cavity 63 can also be a rubber bladder, etc. The telescopic cavity 63 can be fixed or contacted with the inner wall of the receiving cavity 621 and abut against the foot base 61.

[0065] The telescopic cavity 63 can be filled with hydraulic medium. Under pressure, the hydraulic medium can flow between the interconnected telescopic cavities 63. When the ground is uneven, the washing machine 8 is not level at first, and the force applied to the telescopic feet 6 is also different. The fluidity of the hydraulic medium allows the telescopic cavities 63 to adaptively adjust and extend, thereby driving the adjusting foot 62 to adaptively extend and extend relative to the foot base 61. After the washing machine 8 is adjusted to be level, the force applied to the telescopic feet 6 is the same, the hydraulic medium stops flowing, and provides stable support for the washing machine 8.

[0066] Furthermore, the various telescopic cavities 63 can be connected via a connecting structure 64, wherein each foot 61 is provided with a liquid channel 611, each telescopic cavity 63 has a liquid inlet, the liquid inlet of each telescopic foot 6 is connected to one end of the liquid channel 611, and the other end of the liquid channel 611 of each telescopic foot 6 is connected via the connecting structure 64. Possibly, a mounting groove 11 is formed within the foot 61, the groove opening of which is provided with a first limiting ring protruding inward, and a second limiting ring is provided on the outer wall of the adjusting foot 62, the second limiting ring being located above the first limiting ring, so that the first limiting ring provides a limit, preventing the adjusting foot 62 from falling off.

[0067] It should be noted that although the telescopic foot 6 of this invention is described using a hydraulic foot as an example, this is not intended to limit the scope of protection of this invention. As long as the telescopic foot 6 has an automatic leveling function, it can be any existing or future structure. For example, the telescopic foot 6 can be configured as an electric telescopic foot 6, that is, the foot is driven to extend and retract by a motor and a transmission assembly. The motor can be a small DC motor or a stepper motor. The motor is installed at a specific position on the bottom of the washing machine 8, and its stability is ensured by a fixed bracket. The output shaft of the motor is connected to the transmission assembly, which can be a gear set or a lead screw and nut mechanism. If it is a lead screw and nut mechanism, the motor drives the lead screw to rotate, and the nut is connected to the foot. As the lead screw rotates, the nut moves up and down along the lead screw, thereby driving the foot to extend and retract. To achieve the automatic leveling function, a corresponding control circuit and sensors can be provided. Sensors can detect the horizontal state of the washing machine 8, such as gyroscopes, accelerometers, etc. These sensors transmit information such as the tilt angle of the washing machine 8 to the control circuit. The control circuit determines whether the washing machine 8 is in a horizontal state based on the sensor signals and controls the operation of the motor to adjust the length of the foot until the washing machine 8 reaches a horizontal state.

[0068] Those skilled in the art will understand that, although the above combination Figure 3 The description refers to the connection between the telescopic foot 6 and the base 1, but this is not a limitation. The telescopic foot 6 can also be directly connected to the bottom of the washing machine 8, or a separate first foot connecting bracket can be provided, through which the telescopic foot 6 is connected to the bottom of the washing machine 8.

[0069] Possibly, the caster lifting mechanism also includes a fixed base 7, which is connected to the base 1. The fixed base 7 can be located on the front side of the washing machine 8, and the telescopic base 6 can be located on the rear side of the washing machine 8. During use, the fixed base 7 at the front of the washing machine 8 makes the front more stable, reducing the risk of damage to the front base due to bumps or other impacts. The telescopic base 6 at the rear provides flexibility, allowing the height to be adjusted according to actual needs, enabling the washing machine 8 to maintain stable operation in various scenarios.

[0070] Furthermore, the fixed foot 7 can be snapped into the base 1 or threaded into the base 1. By rotating the fixed foot 7, the height of the fixed foot 7 can be adjusted to adjust the height of the washing machine 8 as needed.

[0071] Those skilled in the art will understand that, although the above combination Figure 6 The description refers to the connection between the fixed foot 7 and the base 1, but this is not a limitation. The fixed foot 7 can also be directly connected to the bottom of the washing machine 8, or a separate second foot connecting bracket can be provided, through which the fixed foot 7 is connected to the bottom of the washing machine 8.

[0072] It should be noted that the specific arrangement of the fixed foot 7 and the telescopic foot 6 of the caster lifting mechanism can be adjusted as needed. For example, the fixed foot 7 can be arranged on the rear side of the washing machine 8 and the telescopic foot 6 on the front side of the washing machine 8; or the fixed foot 7 can be arranged on the left side of the washing machine 8 and the telescopic foot 6 on the front side of the washing machine 8; or the fixed foot 7 can be arranged on the right side of the washing machine 8 and the telescopic foot 6 on the left side of the washing machine 8; or the fixed foot 7 can be arranged diagonally on the washing machine 8 and the telescopic foot 6 on the other diagonals of the washing machine 8. Furthermore, the caster lifting mechanism may include both the telescopic foot 6 and the fixed foot 7, or it may only include the telescopic foot 6, or only the fixed foot 7. All of the above adjustments do not deviate from the scope of this invention and are within the protection scope of this invention.

[0073] Possibly, the base 1 is also provided with a first mounting plate 16, with the fixed base 7 and handle structure 5 respectively connected to the first mounting plate 16. The top of the first mounting plate 16 is provided with a groove 161, which extends through the first mounting plate 16 along the width direction of the washing machine 8 to accommodate the extended edge of the bottom of the washing machine 8, ensuring that the first mounting plate 16 can be installed in close contact with the bottom of the washing machine 8. The groove 161 extends towards the bottom of the first mounting plate 16 to form a protrusion 162. The movable bracket 4 bends downward and extends past the bottom of the protrusion 162 to connect with the handle part 51. The part of the movable bracket 4 that extends past the protrusion 162 is provided with a reinforcing structure. The extended edge can be an extended edge extending downward from the bottom of the front panel of the washing machine 8, or it can be fixedly connected to the bottom plate of the washing machine 8 to enhance the structural strength of the washing machine 8 and provide protection for the components at the bottom of the washing machine 8.

[0074] Possibly, a second mounting plate 17 is also provided on the base 1, and the telescopic feet 6 are connected to the second mounting plate 17.

[0075] In another aspect, the present invention also provides a household appliance system comprising a household appliance and a caster lifting mechanism according to any of the above embodiments, wherein a base 1 is mounted on the bottom of the household appliance.

[0076] It should be noted that the above embodiments are merely used to illustrate the principles of the present invention and are not intended to limit the scope of protection of the present invention. Without departing from the principles of the present invention, those skilled in the art can adjust the above embodiments so that the present invention can be applied to more specific application scenarios.

[0077] 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 caster lifting mechanism for household appliances, characterized in that, The caster lifting mechanism includes: Base (1); A roller assembly (2) is provided at the bottom of the base (1) and is configured to be able to be unfolded and retracted. The caster lifting mechanism is configured to enable the roller assembly (2) to support the household appliance when the roller assembly (2) is unfolded. A raised structure (3) is provided on the top of the base (1) and is configured to abut against the bottom of the household appliance.

2. The caster lifting mechanism for household appliances according to claim 1, characterized in that, The base (1) has a mounting groove (11) on its top surface, and the protruding structure (3) is installed in the mounting groove (11); and / or Foam cotton is provided between the protruding structure (3) and the base (1), and the foam cotton is bonded to the base (1) and the protruding structure (3) respectively.

3. The caster lifting mechanism for household appliances according to claim 1, characterized in that, The protruding structure (3) is integrally formed with the base (1); and / or The caster lifting mechanism also includes a telescopic foot (6), which is connected to the base (1) and is used to automatically level the household appliance.

4. The caster lifting mechanism for household appliances according to claim 1, characterized in that, The base (1) is provided with the roller assembly (2) at the front and rear parts respectively, and the protrusion structure (3) is located at the rear roller assembly (2).

5. The caster lifting mechanism for household appliances according to claim 1, characterized in that, The caster lifting mechanism also includes a movable bracket (4), the roller assembly (2) includes a roller (21) and a connecting arm (22), one end of the connecting arm (22) is rotatably connected to the roller (21), and the other end of the connecting arm (22) is rotatably connected to the base (1) through a first connecting shaft (23). The movable bracket (4) is configured to move along the base (1) to drive the connecting arm (22) to rotate.

6. The caster lifting mechanism for household appliances according to claim 5, characterized in that, The base (1) includes a first top plate (12), and two pairs of sides of the first top plate (12) extend downward to form first side plates (13). The first top plate (12) and the first side plates (13) on both sides form a sliding groove (14). The movable bracket (4) is movably connected to the sliding groove (14). The movable support (4) includes a second top plate (41), which extends downward to form a second side plate (42). The second side plate (42) is provided with a groove (43), and the first side plate (13) is provided with a cut (15). The connecting arm (22) and the roller (21) are rotatably connected by a second connecting shaft (24), which is located in the groove (43) and in the cut (15).

7. The caster lifting mechanism for household appliances according to claim 6, characterized in that, The protruding structure (3) is provided on the top wall of the first top plate (12) and located at the cut (15); and / or The second side plate (42) is provided with a strip hole (44), and the first connecting shaft (23) passes through the strip hole (44) and connects to the first side plate (13).

8. The caster lifting mechanism for household appliances according to claim 5, characterized in that, A pressing structure (25) is sleeved on the first connecting shaft (23), and the pressing structure (25) is used to provide the moving bracket (4) with a force to fit against the base (1).

9. The caster lifting mechanism for household appliances according to claim 5, characterized in that, The caster lifting mechanism also includes a handle structure (5), which includes a handle portion (51) and a first connecting portion (52) and a second connecting portion (53) provided on the handle portion (51). The first connecting portion (52) is rotatably connected to the base (1) via a third connecting shaft (54). The second connecting portion (53) is provided with a fourth connecting shaft (55). The movable bracket (4) is provided with a guide hole (45). The fourth connecting shaft (55) is rotatably and movably provided in the guide hole (45).

10. A household appliance system, characterized in that, The household appliance system includes a household appliance and a caster lifting mechanism as described in any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the base (1) is mounted on the bottom of the household appliance.

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