Washing machine washing control method, water softening device, and washing machine

Abstract

The embodiment of the application discloses a cleaning machine cleaning control method, a soft water device and a cleaning machine, and relates to the technical field of cleaning. The cleaning machine comprises a water tank and a soft water device arranged in the water tank. The soft water device is provided with a first channel and a second channel, and a blocking piece arranged at the water inlet of the first channel. A soft water material is arranged in the second channel. The cleaning machine cleaning control method comprises the following steps: controlling the position of the blocking piece based on the water level in the water tank. When the water level is higher than a preset threshold, the blocking piece is in a second position, the first channel water inlet is opened, water flows through the first channel and is discharged, and the cleaning object is cleaned. When the water level is lower than or equal to the preset threshold, the blocking piece is in a first position, the first channel water inlet is closed, water flows through the second channel, is softened by the soft water material in the second channel and is discharged, and the cleaning object is finally cleaned. Thus, the overuse of the soft water device is reduced, the service life of the soft water device is prolonged, and the use cost is reduced.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of cleaning technology, and in particular to cleaning control methods for cleaning machines, soft water devices, and cleaning machines. Background Technology

[0002] Water softening devices can soften the water used in cleaning machines such as dishwashers and bottle washers, which helps reduce watermarks and scale. In related technologies, water softening devices use water softening materials such as resin to soften the water. However, the consumption of water softening materials is high, resulting in a short service life for the water softening devices. Summary of the Invention

[0003] In view of the above problems, this application proposes a cleaning control method for a cleaning machine, a soft water device, and a cleaning machine, which can improve the current problems of high consumption of soft water materials, shortened service life, and high operating costs.

[0004] To achieve the above objectives, in a first aspect, this application proposes a cleaning control method for a cleaning machine, wherein the cleaning machine includes a water tank and a water softening device disposed within the water tank, the water softening device includes a housing, a first channel and a second channel disposed within the housing, and a sealing member disposed at the inlet of the first channel, and the second channel is provided with water softening material; The cleaning control method for the cleaning machine includes: The position of the sealing component is controlled based on the water level in the water tank. When the water level is higher than a preset threshold, the sealing component is in the second position and the inlet of the first channel is opened, so that water flows through the first channel to be discharged, in order to clean the cleaning material. When the water level is lower than or equal to the preset threshold, the sealing component is in the first position and closes the inlet of the first channel, allowing water to flow through the second channel and be softened by the soft water material in the second channel before being discharged, so as to perform final cleaning of the cleaning material.

[0005] In one embodiment, controlling the position of the sealing element based on the water level in the water tank includes: When the water level is higher than the preset threshold, the buoyancy of the sealing element is greater than the weight of the sealing element, and the sealing element switches from the first position to the second position; When the water level is lower than or equal to the preset threshold, the buoyancy of the sealing element is less than the weight of the sealing element, and the sealing element switches from the second position to the first position.

[0006] In one embodiment, the second channel has a second inlet and a second outlet, the second outlet is connected to the first channel, and the height of the second inlet is lower than the height of the inlet of the first channel; The step of allowing water to flow through the second channel and be softened by the water softening material in the second channel before being discharged includes: allowing water to flow into the second channel from the second inlet and be treated by the water softening material, then flowing into the first channel through the second outlet, and being discharged through the outlet of the first channel.

[0007] Secondly, this application proposes a water softening device, the water softening device comprising: The housing has a cavity, a first channel, and at least one second channel, wherein the first channel and the second channel are both located in the cavity, the first channel has a first inlet and a first outlet, the second channel has a second inlet and a second outlet, the second outlet communicates with the first channel, and the second channel is arranged in a folded-back shape within the cavity; along the height direction of the housing, the first inlet is located above the second inlet; A soft water material is filled into the second channel, and the soft water material is located between the second inlet and the second outlet; A sealing element is provided at the first water inlet and is used to block or open the first water inlet.

[0008] In one embodiment, the second channel includes a plurality of sub-channels arranged along a first direction, the sub-channels extending along a second direction, and the plurality of sub-channels being connected end to end in sequence, so that the water flow reciprocates within the second channel; Along the first direction, one of the sub-channels located on one side is connected to the second inlet, and the other sub-channel located on the other side is connected to the second outlet; The first direction intersects with the second direction.

[0009] In one embodiment, a plurality of the sub-channels are arranged sequentially along the length direction of the housing, and the plurality of the sub-channels extend along the height direction of the housing; Along the direction of water flow, the multiple sub-channels are connected end to end. Along the length of the shell, one of the sub-channels on one side is connected to the second inlet, and the other sub-channel on the other side is connected to the second outlet.

[0010] In one embodiment, the water softening device includes a plurality of first baffles spaced apart along the length of the housing; A first connecting port is provided on the first partition between two adjacent sub-channels, and the first connecting port is alternately arranged at the top and bottom of the first partition along the length direction of the housing; The first connecting port located at the top of the first partition forms a first opening, which is used to connect the tops of two adjacent sub-channels. The first connecting port located at the bottom of the first partition forms a second opening, which is used to connect the bottoms of two adjacent sub-channels.

[0011] In one embodiment, the water softening device further includes a first filter element disposed at the first opening and / or the second opening, the first filter element being used to supply water and prevent the water softening material from passing through.

[0012] In one embodiment, a plurality of the sub-channels are arranged sequentially along the height direction of the housing, and the plurality of the sub-channels extend along the length direction of the housing; Along the direction of water flow, the multiple sub-channels are connected end to end. Along the height direction of the shell, the lowermost sub-channel is connected to the second inlet, and the uppermost sub-channel is connected to the second outlet.

[0013] In one embodiment, the water softening device includes a plurality of second baffles spaced apart along the height direction of the housing; Along the length of the housing, the second partition has a first side and a second side disposed opposite to each other. A second communication port is provided on the second partition between two adjacent sub-channels, and the second communication port is alternately arranged on the first side and the second side of the second partition along the height direction of the housing; The second connecting port located on the first side constitutes a third opening, which is used to connect the ends of two adjacent sub-channels located on the first side along the length direction of the housing. The second connecting port located on the second side constitutes a fourth opening, which is used to connect the ends of two adjacent sub-channels located on the second side along the length direction of the housing.

[0014] In one embodiment, there are two second channels, with one second channel located on each side of the first channel along the length of the housing.

[0015] In one embodiment, the sealing member is used to switch between a first position and a second position under the action of buoyancy and gravity, wherein the sealing member in the first position blocks the first water inlet, and the sealing member in the second position opens the first water inlet; When the buoyancy is greater than the gravity, the sealing member switches from the first position to the second position; when the buoyancy is less than the gravity, the sealing member switches from the second position to the first position.

[0016] In one embodiment, the sealing member is rotatably connected to the housing to switch between the first position and the second position.

[0017] In one embodiment, the sealing member includes a first end and a second end disposed opposite to each other, the first end being rotatably connected to the housing; When the sealing member is in the first position, the second end of the sealing member overlaps with the housing to block the first water inlet, and the second end and the first end are spaced apart in the horizontal direction.

[0018] In one embodiment, the sealing member is movable along the height direction of the housing to switch between the first position and the second position; When the sealing member is in the first position, the sealing member abuts against the housing to block the first water inlet.

[0019] In one embodiment, the surface where the first water inlet is located intersects the height direction of the shell.

[0020] In one embodiment, the housing further includes a water inlet chamber and a third water inlet communicating with the water inlet chamber; Along the height direction of the housing, the water inlet cavity is located above the container cavity, the first water inlet is connected to the water inlet cavity, and the sealing member is disposed in the water inlet cavity.

[0021] In one embodiment, multiple third water inlets are provided, and at least one of the third water inlets is located adjacent to the cavity along the height direction of the housing.

[0022] In one embodiment, the water softening device further includes a second filter element disposed at the second inlet and / or the second outlet, the second filter element being used to supply water and prevent the water softening material from passing through.

[0023] In one embodiment, the water softening device further includes a third filter element disposed at the first water inlet, the third filter element being used to filter particulate impurities in the water.

[0024] In one embodiment, the second outlet is located above the second inlet along the height direction of the housing.

[0025] In one embodiment, the soft water material includes a mixed bed resin.

[0026] In one embodiment, the water softener is installed inside a water tank, and the water softener further includes a first connector disposed on the housing, the first connector being used to connect the water softener to the water tank.

[0027] In one embodiment, the first connector includes a magnetic component, and the first connector is magnetically connected to the water tank.

[0028] In one embodiment, the first channel includes a first sub-channel, a second sub-channel, and a third sub-channel that are connected to each other. The first sub-channel is located at the top of the cavity, and the third sub-channel is located at the bottom of the cavity. The water softening device also includes a delivery pipe disposed in the cavity, and the inner cavity of the delivery pipe forms the second sub-channel. Both the first inlet and the first outlet are located on the housing. Along the height direction of the housing, the first sub-channel forms the first inlet at the top of the housing, and the third sub-channel forms the first outlet at the bottom of the housing. The second water outlet is located in the conveying pipe.

[0029] In one embodiment, the water softener is installed inside a water tank, the water tank having a drain outlet communicating with the first outlet, the water softener further including a sealing element disposed on the housing, and the sealing element surrounding the first outlet, the water softener being sealed to the water tank through the sealing element.

[0030] In one embodiment, the second water inlet is located at the bottom of the housing along the height direction of the housing.

[0031] In one embodiment, the sealing member includes a buoyancy portion and a sealing portion connected to the buoyancy portion for sealing or opening the first water inlet, the sealing portion being elastic and having a shape that mates with the outer edge or inner circumference of the opening of the first water inlet.

[0032] In a further embodiment, the top of the housing has a cover, the sealing member is rotatably fixed to the outer wall of the housing by a rotating shaft and can block or open the first water inlet by rotating around the rotating shaft, and the upper surface of the buoyancy part away from the rotating shaft is provided with a notch to allow the cover to pass.

[0033] Thirdly, this application proposes a cleaning machine, the cleaning machine comprising: The water softening device described in the second aspect; A water tank, wherein the water softening device is disposed inside the water tank, and the water tank is provided with a drain outlet connected to the first water outlet; A water pump, connected to the drain outlet, is used to draw water from the water tank.

[0034] The cleaning control method, water softening device, and cleaning machine in this application embodiment include controlling the position of a sealing component based on the water level in the water tank. When the water level is higher than a preset threshold, the sealing component is in a second position, opening the inlet of the first channel to allow water to flow through and be discharged to clean the object. When the water level is lower than or equal to the preset threshold, the sealing component is in a first position, closing the inlet of the first channel to allow water to flow through a second channel and be softened by the water softening material in the second channel before being discharged to perform final cleaning of the object. This achieves the goal of controlling the water softening device not to soften the water flow during non-final cleaning stages, and only using water treated by the water softening device to perform final cleaning of the object during the final cleaning stage. Compared to using softened water throughout the process, this reduces the excessive use of the water softening device, extends its service life, and reduces operating costs. At the same time, the water remaining on the surface of the object after cleaning is water softened by the water softening device, which can reduce watermarks and water stains on the surface of the object after drying during the subsequent drying process, achieving a better cleaning effect. Attached Figure Description

[0035] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this application or the prior art, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of this application. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on the structures shown in these drawings without creative effort.

[0036] Figure 1 This application provides schematic diagrams of water tank structures for some embodiments. Figure 2 A schematic diagram of a water softening device assembled inside a water tank according to some embodiments of this application; Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a water softening device provided in some embodiments of this application; Figure 4 Schematic diagrams showing the sealing member in the first and second positions according to some embodiments of this application; Figure 5 A cross-sectional internal structure diagram of the first shell provided for some embodiments of this application; Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram showing the location of the second partition provided in some embodiments of this application; Figure 7 This application provides schematic diagrams of the second channel structure for some embodiments. Figure 8 A schematic diagram showing the location of the first partition provided in other embodiments of this application; Figure 9This is a schematic diagram of the second channel structure provided for other embodiments of this application; Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram showing the positional relationship between the delivery pipe and the second outlet in some embodiments of this application; Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram showing the connection relationship between the water softening device and the water tank provided in some embodiments of this application; Figure 12 for Figure 11 Enlarged schematic diagram of the structure at point A in the middle; Figure 13 A flowchart of a cleaning machine cleaning control method provided in some embodiments of this application.

[0037] Explanation of icon numbers: 100. Water softening device; 10. Shell; 11. First shell; 111. Water inlet cavity; 112. Third water inlet; 113. Handle; 114. Groove; 12. Second shell; 121. First sub-shell; 122. Second sub-shell; 1221. Receiving groove; 1222. First connector; 123. Cavity; 13. First channel; 131. First sub-channel; 1311. First water inlet; 132. Second sub-channel; 133. Third sub-channel; 1331. First water outlet; 14. Second channel; 141. Sub-channel; 142. Second water inlet; 143. Second water outlet; 20. Water softening materials; 30. Sealing component; 31. First end; 32. Second end; 33. Sealing part; 34. Notch; 35. Buoyancy part; 40. First partition; 41. First opening; 42. Second opening; 43. First filter element; 50. Second partition; 51. Third opening; 52. Fourth opening; 60. Second filter element; 70. Third filter element; 80. Conveying pipe; 81. Sealing element; 811. Annular main body; 812. First flange; 8121. Extension; 813. Second flange; 82. Protrusion; 90. Guide structure; 91. Perforation; 200, Water tank; 210, Drain outlet; 220, Mounting groove; 230, Second connector.

[0038] The realization of the purpose of this application, its features and advantages will be further explained in conjunction with the embodiments and with reference to the accompanying drawings. Detailed Implementation

[0039] The technical solutions of the embodiments of this application will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only a part of the embodiments of this application, and not all of the embodiments. Based on the embodiments of this application, all other embodiments obtained by those of ordinary skill in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this application.

[0040] It should be noted that if the embodiments of this application involve directional indicators (such as up, down, left, right, front, back, etc.), the directional indicators are only used to explain the relative positional relationship and movement of the components in a specific posture. If the specific posture changes, the directional indicators will also change accordingly.

[0041] Furthermore, if the embodiments of this application involve descriptions such as "first" or "second," these descriptions are for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying their relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of technical features indicated. Therefore, a feature defined with "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include at least one of those features. Additionally, the use of "and / or" or "and / or" throughout the text includes three parallel solutions. For example, "A and / or B" includes solution A, solution B, or a solution that simultaneously satisfies A and B. Furthermore, the technical solutions of the various embodiments can be combined with each other, but this must be based on the ability of those skilled in the art to implement them. When the combination of technical solutions is contradictory or impossible to implement, it should be considered that such a combination of technical solutions does not exist and is not within the scope of protection claimed in this application.

[0042] Water softening devices can soften the water used in cleaning machines such as dishwashers and bottle washers, which helps reduce watermarks and scale. In related technologies, water softening devices use water softening materials such as resin to soften the water. However, the consumption of water softening materials is high, resulting in a short service life for the water softening devices.

[0043] Based on this, firstly, please refer to [the relevant information]. Figure 13This application provides a cleaning control method for a cleaning machine. The cleaning machine includes a water tank 200 and a water softening device 100 disposed within the water tank 200. The water softening device 100 includes a housing 10, a first channel 13 and a second channel 14 disposed within the housing 10, and a sealing member 30 disposed at the inlet of the first channel 13. The second channel 14 is provided with water softening material 20. The cleaning control method includes: controlling the position of the sealing member 30 based on the water level in the water tank 200; when the water level is higher than a preset threshold, the sealing member 30 is in a second position and opens the inlet of the first channel 13, allowing water to flow through the first channel 13 and be discharged to clean the object; when the water level is lower than or equal to the preset threshold, the sealing member 30 is in a first position and closes the inlet of the first channel 13, allowing water to flow through the second channel 14 and be softened by the water softening material 20 in the second channel 14 before being discharged to finally clean the object.

[0044] In this embodiment, the first channel 13 is used to allow water to be used directly to clean the items without softening. The second channel 14 is provided with a water softening material 20. When the water passes through the second channel 14, it is softened by the water softening material 20, thereby realizing the use of softened water to clean the items.

[0045] The position of the sealing component 30 in the water tank 200 is automatically controlled based on the water level in the water tank 200. When the water level is higher than the preset threshold, the sealing component 30 is in the second position. In the second position, the sealing component 30 opens the inlet of the first channel 13, allowing water to flow through the first channel 13 and be discharged to clean the cleaning material.

[0046] Specifically, during the initial cleaning phase after the cleaning machine is started, the water level in the water tank 200 is high (above the preset threshold). At this time, the sealing component 30 moves and remains in the second position to open the water inlet of the first channel 13. Water is discharged directly through the first channel 13 without passing through the soft water material 20 in the second channel 14, and performs preliminary cleaning (i.e., hard water cleaning) on ​​the cleaning object to remove large particles of dirt from the surface of the cleaning object.

[0047] When the water level is lower than or equal to a preset threshold, the sealing component 30 switches from the second position to the first position. In the first position, the sealing component 30 closes the inlet of the first channel 13, allowing the water to flow through the second channel 14 and be softened by the soft water material 20 in the second channel 14 before being discharged to perform final cleaning of the cleaning material.

[0048] Specifically, as the cleaning process proceeds, the water level in the water tank 200 gradually decreases. When the water level drops below or equal to a preset threshold, the sealing component 30 moves from the second position to the first position, closing the inlet of the first channel 13. At this time, the water cannot be discharged through the first channel 13 and instead flows into the second channel 14. When the water flows through the second channel 14, it comes into contact with the water softening material 20 in the second channel 14. The calcium and magnesium ions in the water are adsorbed by the water softening material 20, achieving water softening treatment. Thus, the softened water is used to perform the final cleaning of the cleaning object.

[0049] Softened water contains little or no calcium and magnesium ions. Using soft water to rinse the items during the final cleaning stage reduces residual scale on the surface, resulting in a smoother surface after drying. This significantly improves the cleaning effect and user experience.

[0050] In this embodiment, since softened water is used to clean the items only in the final cleaning stage, and the water softening material 20 does not participate in water softening treatment in non-final cleaning stages such as pre-wash, main wash and intermediate rinse, its cumulative working time is effectively reduced, thereby avoiding excessive use and consumption in unnecessary stages, which helps to extend the service life of the water softening material 20 and reduce the cost of use.

[0051] According to some embodiments of this application, the position of the sealing member 30 is controlled based on the water level in the water tank 200, including: when the water level is higher than a preset threshold, the buoyancy of the sealing member 30 is greater than the gravity, and the sealing member 30 switches from a first position to a second position; when the water level is lower than or equal to the preset threshold, the buoyancy of the sealing member 30 is less than the gravity, and the sealing member 30 switches from the second position to the first position.

[0052] In this embodiment, the sealing element 30 is a float-type sealing element 30 (such as a float block), whose density is less than that of water.

[0053] When the water level is higher than the preset threshold, the buoyancy of the sealing component 30 is greater than the gravity, and the sealing component 30 switches from the first position to the second position.

[0054] Specifically, in the initial stage of cleaning, the water level in the water tank 200 is relatively high and exceeds the preset threshold. The buoyancy of the sealing component 30 is relatively large, and the buoyancy of the sealing component 30 is greater than its own weight. Under the action of water buoyancy, the sealing component 30 floats up and moves from the first position (the position where the inlet of the first channel 13 is closed) to the second position (the position where the inlet of the first channel 13 is open), thereby opening the inlet of the first channel 13 and allowing water to flow through the first channel 13 and be discharged.

[0055] When the water level is lower than or equal to the preset threshold, the buoyancy of the sealing component 30 is less than the gravity, and the sealing component 30 switches from the second position to the first position.

[0056] Specifically, as the cleaning process proceeds, the water level in the water tank 200 gradually decreases. When the water level drops below or equal to a preset threshold, the buoyancy of the sealing component 30 decreases accordingly. When the buoyancy of the sealing component 30 is less than its own weight, the sealing component 30 falls downward under its own weight and moves from the second position (the position where the inlet of the first channel 13 is open) to the first position (the position where the inlet of the first channel 13 is closed), thereby closing the inlet of the first channel 13, allowing the water to flow through the second channel 14 and be softened by the water softening material 20 before being discharged.

[0057] Through the balance between buoyancy and gravity described above, the sealing component 30 can automatically switch between the first position and the second position according to the water level in the water tank 200, realizing automated control of water circuit switching. It does not require additional electronic control components, sensors or external power sources, and has a simple, reliable structure and low cost.

[0058] Meanwhile, the purely mechanical control avoids potential malfunctions or signal interference of electronic components in humid environments, improving the reliability of the cleaning machine during long-term use. This allows for the phased activation of the soft water device 100 without the need for a complex electronic control system, significantly reducing product manufacturing costs and user maintenance costs.

[0059] According to some embodiments of this application, the second channel 14 has a second inlet 142 and a second outlet 143, the second outlet 143 is connected to the first channel 13, and the height of the second inlet 142 is lower than the height of the inlet of the first channel 13; the water flows through the second channel 14 and is softened by the water softening material 20 in the second channel 14 before being discharged, including: the water flows into the second channel 14 from the second inlet 142 and is treated by the water softening material 20, and then flows into the first channel 13 through the second outlet 143 and is discharged through the outlet of the first channel 13.

[0060] In this embodiment, the second channel 14 has a second inlet 142 and a second outlet 143. The second outlet 143 is connected to the first channel 13. The height of the second inlet 142 is lower than the height of the inlet of the first channel 13.

[0061] Specifically, the inlet of the first channel 13 is located at a higher position inside the housing 10, and the second inlet 142 of the second channel 14 is located at a lower position inside the housing 10, so that the second inlet 142 is lower than the inlet of the first channel 13 in the height direction; when the water level in the water tank 200 is lower than a preset threshold, the sealing member 30 closes the inlet of the first channel 13, and the water cannot flow in from the inlet of the first channel 13, but instead flows into the second channel 14 from the lower-positioned second inlet 142.

[0062] The water flows through the second channel 14 and is softened by the water softening material 20 within the second channel 14 before being discharged, including: Water flows into the second channel 14 through the second inlet 142. The water flows through the water softening material 20 in the second channel 14, where calcium and magnesium ions in the water are adsorbed by the water softening material 20, thus achieving water softening treatment. The softened water treated by the water softening material 20 flows into the first channel 13 through the second outlet 143 and is discharged through the outlet of the first channel 13 to perform final cleaning of the cleaning materials.

[0063] That is, when the sealing component 30 closes the inlet of the first channel 13, water enters the second channel 14 from the second inlet 142, is softened by the soft water material 20 in the second channel 14, and then flows into the first channel 13 from the second outlet 143, and finally exits from the outlet of the first channel 13; thus, in the soft water cleaning mode, the first channel 13 serves as the outlet channel, and the water flows from the second channel 14 through the second outlet 143 into the first channel 13 and then exits, instead of flowing into the first channel 13 from the inlet.

[0064] With the above structure, in hard water cleaning mode, water flows directly out through the first channel 13 and is used to directly clean the cleaning object. In soft water cleaning mode, water that has flowed through the second channel 14 and been softened by the soft water material 20 flows into the first channel 13 and is discharged from the outlet of the first channel 13. This realizes the dual-purpose function integration of the first channel 13 and simplifies the water circuit structure.

[0065] Please see Figure 1 and Figure 2 The cleaning machine includes a water tank 200 and a water softening device 100. The water tank 200 stores cleaning water, and the water softening device 100 softens the cleaning water in the water tank 200, reducing watermarks on the items to be cleaned. The water softening device 100 can be installed inside the water tank 200, facilitating the flow of cleaning water from the tank into the device. Alternatively, the water softening device 100 can be located outside the water tank 200 for easy installation and removal. The water softening device 100 and the water tank 200 can be connected via piping. The following explanation uses an example where the water softening device 100 is installed inside the water tank 200.

[0066] Please see Figures 3-9The water softening device 100 in this embodiment includes a housing 10, a water softening material 20, and a sealing member 30. The housing 10 has a cavity 123, a first channel 13, and at least one second channel 14. Both the first channel 13 and the second channel 14 are located in the cavity 123. The first channel 13 has a first inlet 1311 and a first outlet 1331. The second channel 14 has a second inlet 142 and a second outlet 143. The second outlet 143 communicates with the first channel 13. The second channel 14 is arranged in a zigzag shape. Along the height direction of the housing 10, the first inlet 1311 is located above the second inlet 142. The water softening material 20 is filled in the second channel 14 and is located between the second inlet 142 and the second outlet 143. The sealing member 30 is disposed at the first inlet 1311 and is used to block or open the first inlet 1311.

[0067] In this embodiment, the housing 10 serves as the external protective structure and the supporting foundation for the internal flow channel of the water softening device 100. It has a cavity 123 inside. The first channel 13 has a first inlet 1311 and a first outlet 1331. Water flows into the first channel 13 through the first inlet 1311 and is discharged directly through the first outlet 1331 without undergoing softening treatment and is used to clean the items to be cleaned. The second channel 14 has a second inlet 142 and a second outlet 143, and the second outlet 143 is connected to the first channel 13. The second channel 14 is a softening flow channel. Water flows into the second channel 14 through the second inlet 142, undergoes softening treatment, flows out from the second outlet 143 and merges into the first channel 13, and is finally discharged through the first outlet 1331, thereby using the softened water to clean the items to be cleaned.

[0068] Understandably, when the water softener 100 is located inside the water tank 200, the sealing member 30 can open or block the first inlet 1311. The water softener 20 is placed inside the second channel 14, and the water softener 20 is located between the second inlet 142 and the second outlet 143. The water softener 20 can at least partially prevent water from reaching the second outlet 143 from the second inlet 142. That is, the resistance to water in the first channel 13 is less than the resistance to water in the second channel 14. When the water level in the water tank 200 is higher than the first inlet 1311, and the sealing member 30 opens the first inlet 1311, water can enter the first channel 13 first from the first inlet 1311. That is, most of the water enters the first channel 13 from the first inlet 1311, and the water entering the second channel 14 from the second inlet 142 can be ignored.

[0069] When the water softening device 100 is located inside the water tank 200, and the water level in the water tank 200 is higher than the first inlet 1311 (at this time, there is more water in the water tank 200), the sealing member 30 can open the first inlet 1311, so that water can first enter the first channel 13 from the first inlet 1311 and be discharged from the first outlet 1331, thereby using water that has not been softened by the water softening material 20 to perform preliminary cleaning of the cleaning object.

[0070] When the water level in the water tank 200 is lower than the first inlet 1311 (at which time there is less water in the water tank 200), the sealing member 30 can block the first inlet 1311. Along the height direction of the shell 10, the second inlet 142 is located below the first inlet 1311. When there is little water left in the water tank 200, water can enter the second channel 14 from the second inlet 142 and be softened by the water softening material 20 in the second channel 14. Then, it enters the first channel 13 from the second outlet 143 and is discharged from the first outlet 1331. This achieves the final cleaning of the cleaning object using water softened by the water softening material 20.

[0071] Of course, when the sealing component 30 opens the first water inlet 1311, there is water in the second channel 14. The water softening material 20 can soften the water in the vicinity. However, the water in the second channel 14 does not flow or the flow rate is very slow and can be ignored. The consumption of water softening material 20 is much lower than the consumption when the sealing component 30 blocks the first water inlet 1311.

[0072] Furthermore, when the sealing component 30 blocks the first inlet 1311, water can only enter the second channel 14 through the second inlet 142 and then enter the first channel 13 from the second outlet 143. The water softening material 20 can soften the water flowing through it.

[0073] Therefore, the water softening device 100 provided in this application embodiment can first provide unsoftened water and then provide softened water. Compared with continuously providing softened water, it can reduce the consumption of water softening material 20, thereby helping to improve the service life of the water softening device 100.

[0074] Meanwhile, since the final step is to use water softened by water softening material 20 to clean the items, the water remaining on the surface of the items after cleaning is softened by water softening material 20. After drying the items, watermarks and water stains on the surface of the items can be greatly reduced, resulting in a better cleaning effect.

[0075] In this embodiment, the second channel 14 is arranged in a zigzag manner, which means that the second channel 14 extends in a serpentine or meandering manner within the cavity 123, and the second inlet 142 is located at one end of the extension direction of the second channel 14, and the second outlet 143 is located at the other end of the extension direction of the second channel 14.

[0076] The second channel 14 is arranged in a zigzag shape, which increases the flow path of water from the second inlet 142 to the second outlet 143. The soft water material 20 is filled in the zigzag-shaped second channel 14. Under the same channel cross-sectional area and water flow rate, the contact time between the water flow and the soft water material 20 filled in the second channel 14 is effectively extended, which enhances the softening effect of the soft water device 100 and the quality of the output water, thereby further reducing watermarks and water stains left on the surface of the cleaned items after drying.

[0077] According to some embodiments of this application, please refer to Figure 7 , Figure 9 The second channel 14 includes multiple sub-channels 141 arranged along the first direction. The sub-channels 141 extend along the second direction, and the multiple sub-channels 141 are connected end to end in sequence so that the water flows back and forth in the second channel 14. The first direction and the second direction intersect. Along the first direction, one sub-channel 141 located on one side is connected to the second inlet 142, and one sub-channel 141 located on the other side is connected to the second outlet 143.

[0078] In this embodiment, multiple sub-channels 141 are connected end to end to allow water to flow back and forth in the second channel 14 along the second direction. That is, after the water enters the first sub-channel 141 from the second inlet 142, it flows along the second direction to the end of the sub-channel 141, then enters the next adjacent sub-channel 141, flows in the opposite direction of the second direction to the end of the sub-channel 141, and then enters the next sub-channel 141, and so on, until it flows out from the last sub-channel 141 and through the second outlet 143. The sub-channels 141 are connected end to end to form a series of reversible flow channels, allowing water to flow back and forth in the second channel 14. The first direction intersects the second direction, that is, the arrangement direction of each sub-channel 141 is perpendicular to or at a certain angle to the extension direction of the sub-channel 141.

[0079] In one embodiment, the second direction can be the height direction of the housing 10, that is, the sub-channel 141 extends along the height direction of the housing 10. In this case, the first direction can be the length direction of the housing 10, and each sub-channel 141 is arranged sequentially along the length direction of the housing 10, and each sub-channel 141 extends up and down along the height direction of the housing 10.

[0080] In another embodiment, the second direction can be the length direction of the housing 10, that is, the second direction is perpendicular to the height direction of the housing 10, that is, the sub-channel 141 extends along the length direction of the housing 10. In this case, the first direction can be the height direction of the housing 10, and each sub-channel 141 is arranged sequentially along the height direction of the housing 10, and each sub-channel 141 extends horizontally along the length direction of the housing 10.

[0081] In another embodiment, the second direction can be a direction between the height direction of the housing 10 and the length direction of the housing 10, that is, the sub-channels 141 extend at an incline, and the water flows in each sub-channel 141 in the incline direction. The sub-channels 141 can be arranged sequentially along the height direction of the housing 10 or sequentially along the length direction of the housing 10.

[0082] In this embodiment, the multiple choices of the second direction allow the layout of the second channel 14 to be flexibly adjusted according to the shape and size of the housing 10, adapting to housings 10 with different length-width-height ratios, and making full use of the internal space of the housing 10. Secondly, regardless of how the second direction is selected, the reciprocating layout of the multiple sub-channels 141 achieves long-path water flow within a limited space, prolonging the contact time between the water flow and the soft water material 20, improving the water softening effect, and thus further reducing watermarks and water stains remaining on the surface of the cleaned items after drying.

[0083] According to some embodiments of this application, please refer to Figure 8 , Figure 9 Multiple sub-channels 141 are arranged sequentially along the length of the housing 10, and the multiple sub-channels 141 extend along the height of the housing 10; along the direction of water flow, the multiple sub-channels 141 are connected end to end in sequence, and along the length of the housing 10, one sub-channel 141 on one side is connected to the second inlet 142, and one sub-channel 141 on the other side is connected to the second outlet 143.

[0084] In this embodiment, each sub-channel 141 extends along the height direction of the housing 10 and is arranged sequentially along the length direction of the housing 10. The sub-channels 141 are connected end to end to form a series of reversible flow channels, so that the water flows back and forth in the second channel 14 along the height direction of the housing 10, thereby prolonging the contact time between the water flow and the water softening material 20 in the second channel 14 and enhancing the water softening effect.

[0085] In one embodiment, the second inlet 142 is connected to the sub-channel 141 away from the first channel 13, and the second outlet 143 is connected to the sub-channel 141 close to the first channel 13. Thus, there is no need to arrange other pipes in the cavity 123 to connect the second channel 14 and the first channel 13. Specifically, since the sub-channel 141 where the second outlet 143 is located is close to the first channel 13, the softened water flowing out of the second outlet 143 of the sub-channel 141 can flow directly into the first channel 13. There is no need for additional pipes or flow channels to connect the two, which can simplify the internal structure of the housing 10 and reduce the number of parts.

[0086] In this embodiment, the layout of the sub-channels 141 extending along the height direction of the housing 10 and arranged along the length direction of the housing 10 makes full use of the two dimensions of the height and length of the housing 10, and realizes a compact turnaround path layout in a two-dimensional plane.

[0087] According to some embodiments of this application, please refer to Figure 8 , Figure 9 The water softening device 100 includes a plurality of first partitions 40 arranged at intervals along the length of the housing 10; a first connecting port is provided on the first partition 40 between two adjacent sub-channels 141, and the first connecting ports are alternately arranged at the top and bottom of the first partition 40 along the length of the housing 10; wherein, the first connecting port located at the top of the first partition 40 constitutes a first opening 41, and the first opening 41 is used to connect the top of the two adjacent sub-channels 141, and the first connecting port located at the bottom of the first partition 40 constitutes a second opening 42, and the second opening 42 is used to connect the bottom of the two adjacent sub-channels 141.

[0088] In this embodiment, the first partition 40 extends along the height and width directions of the shell 10, and the peripheral sidewall of the first partition 40 is sealed to the wall of the cavity 123. The first opening 41 and the second opening 42 respectively penetrate the corresponding first partition 40 along the length direction of the shell 10, so that the top of two adjacent sub-channels 141 are connected through the first opening 41 and the bottom of two adjacent sub-channels 141 are connected through the second opening 42. The first opening 41 and the second opening 42 are alternately arranged along the length direction of the shell 10, so that each sub-channel 141 is connected in series and forms a zigzag flow channel, which prolongs the water flow path and the contact time between the water flow and the soft water material 20, thereby enhancing the water softening effect.

[0089] The water softening material 20 is filled in the sub-channel 141 between two adjacent first partitions 40 to soften the flowing water.

[0090] In one embodiment, the cross-sectional shape of the first opening 41 and the second opening 42 is circular, rectangular or oblong, and the size of the first connecting opening is determined according to the required water flow rate and velocity.

[0091] In one embodiment, the first partition 40 is a separate component independent of the housing 10. It is fixed to the inner wall of the cavity 123 of the housing 10 by a detachable connection. The detachable connection includes, but is not limited to, snap-fit ​​connection, plug-in connection, threaded connection or magnetic connection. When the water softener 100 needs maintenance or cleaning, the user can easily remove the first partition 40 from the housing 10.

[0092] In another embodiment, the first partition 40 is integrally formed with the shell 10, that is, the first partition 40 and the inner wall of the cavity 123 of the shell 10 are integrally formed by injection molding, 3D printing and other processes to form an inseparable integral structure; there is no assembly gap between the integrally formed first partition 40 and the shell 10, no need to set a sealing structure, good sealing performance, in addition, the integral forming reduces the number of parts and assembly steps, reduces manufacturing costs and assembly time, and improves production efficiency.

[0093] According to some embodiments of this application, please refer to Figure 8 The water softening device 100 also includes a first filter element 43, which is disposed at a first opening 41 and / or a second opening 42. The first filter element 43 is used to supply water and prevent the soft water material 20 from passing through.

[0094] The first filter element 43 is used to supply water and prevent the soft water material 20 from passing through. The soft water material 20 is filled in each sub-channel 141. To prevent the soft water material 20 from being lost from the sub-channel 141 or entering other adjacent sub-channels 141 under the flushing action of water, the first filter element 43 is set at the first opening 41 and the second opening 42, so that water can flow smoothly through the openings, while the soft water material 20 is blocked inside the sub-channel 141, preventing the soft water material 20 from moving along the water flow into other sub-channels 141 and compacting the soft water material 20, thus reducing the filtration effect.

[0095] In one embodiment, the first filter element 43 is a filter screen, which is laid at the first opening 41 and / or the second opening 42, covering the opening area of ​​the opening. The mesh size of the filter screen is smaller than the particle size of the water softening material 20, so that water can pass through the mesh of the filter screen, while the particles of the water softening material 20 are blocked on one side of the filter screen because their particle size is larger than the mesh size.

[0096] In another embodiment, the first filter element 43 is integrally formed with the first partition 40. That is, a grid integrally connected with the first partition 40 is provided at the first opening 41 and the second opening 42. Specifically, when the first partition 40 is injection molded, a grid structure is integrally formed at the opening positions at the top and bottom. The grid holes of the grid form a channel for water to flow through, and the grid bars of the grid form a structure to block the soft water material 20. The size of the grid holes is smaller than the particle size of the soft water material 20, so that water can pass through while the soft water material 20 cannot pass through.

[0097] By using a grille integrally formed with the first partition plate 40 as the first filter element 43, no additional filter screen or fasteners are needed, reducing the number of parts. Secondly, there is no connection interface between the grille and the first partition plate 40, which greatly reduces the risk of the first filter element 43 falling off and improves the reliability of long-term use.

[0098] According to some embodiments of this application, please refer to Figure 6 , Figure 7 Multiple sub-channels 141 are arranged sequentially along the height direction of the housing 10, and the multiple sub-channels 141 extend along the length direction of the housing 10; along the direction of water flow, the multiple sub-channels 141 are connected end to end in sequence; along the height direction of the housing 10, the lowermost sub-channel 141 is connected to the second inlet 142, and the uppermost sub-channel 141 is connected to the second outlet 143.

[0099] In this embodiment, another arrangement of the sub-channels 141 in the cavity 123 is provided, that is, each sub-channel 141 extends along the length direction of the shell 10 and is arranged sequentially along the height direction of the shell 10. The sub-channels 141 are connected end to end to form a series of reversible flow channels, so that the water flows back and forth along the length direction of the shell 10 in the second channel 14, thereby prolonging the contact time between the water flow and the water softening material 20 in the second channel 14 and enhancing the water softening effect.

[0100] The layout of each sub-channel 141 extending along the length of the housing 10 and arranged along the height of the housing 10 also makes full use of the two dimensions of the height and length of the housing 10, realizing a compact turnaround path layout in a two-dimensional plane.

[0101] According to some embodiments of this application, please refer to Figure 6 , Figure 7The water softening device 100 includes a plurality of second partitions 50 spaced apart along the height direction of the housing 10; along the length direction of the housing 10, the second partitions 50 have a first side and a second side arranged opposite to each other, and a second connecting port is provided on the second partition 50 between two adjacent sub-channels 141, and the second connecting ports are alternately arranged on the first side and the second side of the second partition 50 along the height direction of the housing 10; wherein, the second connecting port located on the first side constitutes a third opening 51, and the third opening 51 is used to connect the ends of the two adjacent sub-channels 141 located on the first side along the length direction of the housing 10, and the second connecting port located on the second side constitutes a fourth opening 52, and the fourth opening 52 is used to connect the ends of the two adjacent sub-channels 141 located on the second side along the length direction of the housing 10.

[0102] In this embodiment, the second partition 50 extends along the length and width of the housing 10, and the peripheral wall of the second partition 50 is sealed to the wall of the cavity 123. The third opening 51 and the fourth opening 52 penetrate the corresponding second partition 50 along the height direction of the housing 10, so that the two ends of two adjacent sub-channels 141 located on the first side along the length direction of the housing 10 are connected through the third opening 51, and the two ends of two adjacent sub-channels 141 located on the second side along the length direction of the housing 10 are connected through the fourth opening 52. The third opening 51 and the fourth opening 52 are alternately arranged along the height direction of the housing 10, so that each sub-channel 141 is connected in series and forms a zigzag flow channel, which prolongs the water flow path and the contact time between the water flow and the soft water material 20, thereby enhancing the water softening treatment effect.

[0103] The water softening material 20 is filled in the sub-channel 141 between two adjacent second partitions 50 to soften the flowing water.

[0104] In one embodiment, the cross-sectional shape of the third opening 51 and the fourth opening 52 is circular, rectangular or oblong, and the size of the second connecting opening is determined according to the required water flow rate and velocity.

[0105] In one embodiment, the second partition 50 is a separate component independent of the housing 10. It is fixed to the inner wall of the cavity 123 of the housing 10 by a detachable connection. The detachable connection includes, but is not limited to, snap-fit ​​connection, plug-in connection, threaded connection or magnetic connection. When the water softener 100 needs maintenance or cleaning, the user can easily remove the second partition 50 from the housing 10.

[0106] In another embodiment, the second partition 50 is integrally formed with the shell 10, that is, the second partition 50 and the inner wall of the cavity 123 of the shell 10 are integrally formed by injection molding, 3D printing and other processes to form an inseparable integral structure; there is no assembly gap between the integrally formed second partition 50 and the shell 10, no need to set a sealing structure, good sealing performance, in addition, the integral forming reduces the number of parts and assembly steps, reduces manufacturing costs and assembly time, and improves production efficiency.

[0107] According to some embodiments of this application, please refer to Figure 7 , Figure 9 There are two second channels 14. Along the length of the housing 10, there is a second channel 14 on each side of the first channel 13.

[0108] The first channel 13 is located in the central area of ​​the cavity 123. Two second channels 14 are respectively located on both sides of the first channel 13 along the length of the shell 10. The two second channels 14 can be arranged symmetrically or asymmetrically with respect to the first channel 13. Each second channel 14 has its own second inlet 142 and second outlet 143, and the second outlet 143 of each second channel 14 is connected to the first channel 13.

[0109] In one embodiment, the two second channels 14 have the same structure and are symmetrically arranged about the first channel 13. The second outlet 143 of the left second channel 14 is connected to the left side of the first channel 13, and the second outlet 143 of the right second channel 14 is connected to the right side of the first channel 13. The second inlet 142 of the left second channel 14 is located on the left side of the housing 10 away from the first channel 13, and the second inlet 142 of the right second channel 14 is located on the right side of the housing 10 away from the first channel 13.

[0110] The two second channels 14 operate independently. Water flows into the corresponding second channel 14 from the second inlet 142 on the left and right sides, and after softening, it flows into the first channel 13 from its respective second outlet 143. After mixing in the first channel 13, it is discharged through the first outlet 1331.

[0111] In this embodiment, along the length of the housing 10, a second channel 14 is provided on each of the opposite sides of the first channel 13, so that the two second channels 14 can work simultaneously, which improves the processing capacity of the water softener 100 and is suitable for application scenarios with high flow rate requirements.

[0112] According to some embodiments of this application, please refer to Figure 2 and further combine Figure 4The sealing component 30 is used to switch between a first position and a second position under the action of buoyancy and gravity. In the first position, the sealing component 30 blocks the first water inlet 1311, and in the second position, the sealing component 30 opens the first water inlet 1311. When the buoyancy is greater than the gravity, the sealing component 30 switches from the first position to the second position; when the buoyancy is less than the gravity, the sealing component 30 switches from the second position to the first position.

[0113] With the above technical solution, when the liquid level in the water tank 200 is high, the sealing member 30 is immersed in the water and is subject to buoyancy. When the buoyancy is greater than the gravity, the sealing member 30 can switch from the first position to the second position, thereby opening the first water inlet 1311. When the liquid level in the water tank 200 is low, at least part of the sealing member 30 is exposed from the water. When the buoyancy is less than the gravity, the sealing member 30 can switch from the second position to the first position, thereby sealing the first water inlet 1311.

[0114] Therefore, the sealing component 30 provided in this application can switch between a first position and a second position by different liquid levels. That is, the sealing component 30 can be a float. The water softening device 100 is easy to use, and the water softening device 100 can first provide unsoftened water and then provide softened water. Compared with continuously providing softened water, it can reduce the consumption of water softening material 20, thereby helping to improve the service life of the water softening device 100.

[0115] It should be noted that when the buoyancy equals the gravity, the sealing component 30 remains in its current position. For example, when the sealing component 30 is in the first position, if the buoyancy equals the gravity, the sealing component 30 remains in the first position. For example, when the sealing component 30 is in the second position, if the buoyancy equals the gravity, the sealing component 30 remains in the second position.

[0116] In this embodiment, the sealing component 30 automatically opens and closes the first water inlet 1311 using the physical principles of buoyancy and gravity, without the need for electronic components such as solenoid valves, motors, or control circuits. The structure is simple, reliable, and low in cost. Furthermore, the action of the sealing component 30 is completely automatically controlled by the water level, without the need for external detection and control signals.

[0117] According to some embodiments of this application, please refer to Figure 4 The sealing element 30 is rotatably connected to the housing 10 to switch between a first position and a second position.

[0118] The sealing element 30 is rotatably connected to the housing 10 via a pivot or hinge, allowing the sealing element 30 to rotate relative to the housing 10 about a rotation axis. Under the action of buoyancy and gravity, the sealing element 30 rotates about the rotation axis and switches between a first position and a second position.

[0119] The sealing component 30 is connected to the housing 10 by a rotating connection, which makes the movement trajectory of the sealing component 30 arc-shaped. Compared with the sliding connection, the rotating connection has less frictional resistance, more sensitive movement, and is less prone to jamming.

[0120] According to some embodiments of this application, please refer to Figure 4 The sealing member 30 includes a first end 31 and a second end 32 disposed opposite to each other. The first end 31 is rotatably connected to the housing 10. When the sealing member 30 is in the first position, the second end 32 of the sealing member 30 overlaps with the housing 10 to block the first water inlet 1311, and the second end 32 and the first end 31 are spaced apart in the horizontal direction.

[0121] In this way, the sealing component 30 can block the first water inlet 1311 when it is in the first position, and when the sealing component 30 is subjected to buoyancy, the buoyancy can generate a large torque, so that the sealing component 30 in the first position can easily rotate to the second position when subjected to buoyancy.

[0122] Please see Figure 4 , Figure 5 The sealing component 30 includes a buoyancy part 35 and a sealing part 33 connected to the buoyancy part 35 for sealing or opening the first water inlet 1311. The sealing part 33 is elastic and has a shape that mates with the outer edge or inner circumference of the opening of the first water inlet 1311. Specifically, it can be a sheet-like sealing part 33, such as... Figure 4 As shown, this can cover the first inlet 1311. In alternative embodiments, it can also be conical, spherical, or stepped, thereby achieving a seal by inserting it into the first inlet 1311; as Figure 5 As shown, the bottom of the sealing member 30 is provided with a sheet-like elastic sealing ring as a sealing part 33. The sealing part 33 is disposed on the side of the sealing member 30 facing the first water inlet 1311. The sealing part 33 is used to seal the contact surface between the sealing member 30 and the housing 10 when the sealing member 30 abuts against the housing 10, so as to prevent water from leaking into the first channel 13 from the gap between the sealing member 30 and the first water inlet 1311.

[0123] In one embodiment, the sealing member 30 has a flip-type structure, which includes a buoyancy part 35 and a rotating shaft disposed at one end of the buoyancy part 35. The sealing part 33 is disposed at the bottom of the buoyancy part 35 and facing the first water inlet 1311. The rotating shaft is disposed above or to one side of the first water inlet 1311. The buoyancy part 35 flips up and down around the rotating shaft. When the buoyancy part 35 flips down to the first position, the buoyancy part 35 covers and seals the first water inlet 1311. When the buoyancy part 35 flips up to the second position, the buoyancy part 35 leaves the first water inlet 1311 and opens the first water inlet 1311.

[0124] According to some embodiments of this application, please refer to Figure 8 , Figure 9 The sealing member 30 is movable along the height direction of the housing 10 to switch between a first position and a second position; when the sealing member 30 is in the first position, the sealing member 30 abuts against the housing 10 to block the first water inlet 1311.

[0125] The sealing component 30 is a float-type sealing component. The float is made of hollow plastic or foam spheres, and the sealing part 33 is made of elastic material, such as rubber or silicone. The sealing component 30 moves up and down along the height direction of the shell 10. When the water level rises, the float floats up and moves upward, leaving the first water inlet 1311 and opening the first water inlet 1311. When the water level drops, the float moves downward and abuts against the first water inlet 1311, sealing the first water inlet 1311.

[0126] The first inlet 1311 has a circular cross-section to match the contour of the float, so as to achieve a better sealing effect.

[0127] In one embodiment, the housing 10 is provided with a guide structure 90 for guiding the sealing member 30 to move between a first position and a second position along the height direction of the housing 10. When the sealing member 30 is a float, the guide structure 90 can be a guide cylinder. The float is disposed in the guide cylinder. The guide cylinder guides and limits the movement of the float. The radial dimension of the guide cylinder matches the radial dimension of the float or is slightly larger than the radial dimension of the float, so that the float can slide freely along the height direction in the guide cylinder without significant radial offset, so that the float can be accurately aligned with the first inlet 1311.

[0128] The guide tube has multiple perforations 91 on its peripheral sidewall to allow water to flow through the holes into the guide tube. When the float is in the second position, water can enter the guide tube through the perforations 91 and then enter the first channel 13 through the first inlet 1311. Specifically, when the water level rises and the float rises to the second position under the action of buoyancy, the float leaves the first inlet 1311, the first inlet 1311 is opened, and the perforations 91 on the peripheral sidewall of the guide tube allow water to flow from the outside of the guide tube into the inside of the guide tube, flow through the first inlet 1311 into the first channel 13. When the float is in the first position, the float blocks the first inlet 1311, and the water cannot flow through the first inlet 1311 into the first channel 13.

[0129] According to some embodiments of this application, the surface where the first water inlet 1311 is located intersects the height direction of the housing 10.

[0130] In this way, when the sealing component 30 blocks the first water inlet 1311 at the first position, the sealing component 30 fits against the surface where the first water inlet 1311 is located, so that the center line of gravity of the sealing component 30 can pass through the surface where the first water inlet 1311 is located, which is beneficial to improving the sealing effect of the sealing component 30 on the first water inlet 1311.

[0131] In one embodiment, the surface where the first water inlet 1311 is located can be perpendicular to the height direction of the housing 10, that is, the surface where the first water inlet 1311 is located is parallel to the horizontal direction.

[0132] According to some embodiments of this application, please refer to Figure 5 , Figure 7 , Figure 9 The housing 10 also includes a water inlet cavity 111 and a third water inlet 112 communicating with the water inlet cavity 111; along the height direction of the housing 10, the water inlet cavity 111 is located above the cavity 123, the first water inlet 1311 is communicating with the water inlet cavity 111, and the sealing member 30 is disposed in the water inlet cavity 111.

[0133] The housing 10 has a cavity 123 and a water inlet cavity 111 inside. Along the height direction of the housing 10, the water inlet cavity 111 is located above the cavity 123, that is, the water inlet cavity 111 is located in the upper part of the cavity 123, which makes it easier for water to enter the first channel 13 from the water inlet cavity 111 through the first water inlet 1311.

[0134] The third water inlet 112 is located at the top of the shell 10 or near the upper side wall and is connected to the water inlet cavity 111. Water from the water tank 200 enters the water inlet cavity 111 through the third water inlet 112 and is then distributed by the water inlet cavity 111 to the first channel 13 in the container cavity 123.

[0135] In one embodiment, the first water inlet 1311 is disposed at the bottom or lower side wall of the water inlet cavity 111, connecting the water inlet cavity 111 with the first channel 13. When the sealing member 30 is in the second position and the first water inlet 1311 is opened, the water in the water inlet cavity 111 can more easily enter the first channel 13 through the first water inlet 1311.

[0136] The sealing element 30 is located inside the water inlet chamber 111, which allows the sealing element 30 to be hidden in the water inlet chamber 111, thus improving the aesthetics of the water softening device 100.

[0137] According to some embodiments of this application, please refer to Figure 5 , Figure 6 , Figure 8 Multiple third water inlets 112 are provided, and at least one third water inlet 112 is provided adjacent to the cavity 123 along the height direction of the shell 10.

[0138] The arrangement of multiple third inlets 112 can improve the efficiency of water entering the inlet chamber 111 from the water tank 200. When water in the water tank 200 enters the inlet chamber 111 simultaneously through multiple third inlets 112, the water intake speed is accelerated, the water intake time is reduced, and the response speed and working efficiency of the water softener 100 are improved.

[0139] At least one third inlet 112 is disposed adjacent to the cavity 123 in the height direction of the housing 10. When the water level in the water tank 200 decreases and is lower than the height of the third inlet 112, the buoyancy of the sealing member 30 decreases and it begins to move to the first position. When a portion of water remains in the inlet cavity 111, the buoyancy of this portion of water is insufficient to lift the sealing member 30. At this time, the sealing member 30 moves to the first position and blocks the first inlet 1311. As a result, the remaining water in the inlet cavity 111 cannot be used. If this water remains in the inlet cavity 111 for a long time, it may breed bacteria or affect subsequent use.

[0140] By providing a third water inlet 112 at the lower part of the water inlet cavity 111 (adjacent to the cavity 123), the water remaining in the water inlet cavity 111 can flow out through the third water inlet 112 of the adjacent cavity 123 under the action of gravity, be discharged back into the water tank 200, and be reused.

[0141] According to some embodiments of this application, please refer to Figure 8 , Figure 10 The water softening device 100 also includes a second filter element 60, which is located at the second inlet 142 and / or the second outlet 143. The second filter element 60 is used to supply water and prevent the water softening material 20 from passing through.

[0142] The second filter element 60 is used to supply water and prevent the soft water material 20 from passing through. The soft water material 20 is filled in the second channel 14. In order to prevent the soft water material 20 from being lost from the second channel 14 under the flushing action of water, or from being flushed into other cavities of the housing 10 from the second inlet 142 or the second outlet 143, the second filter element 60 is provided at the second inlet 142 and / or the second outlet 143 so that water can pass through smoothly, while the soft water material 20 is blocked inside the second channel 14.

[0143] In one embodiment, the second filter element 60 is simultaneously disposed at the second inlet 142 and the second outlet 143 to improve the effect of preventing diffusion and loss of the soft water material 20.

[0144] In one embodiment, the second filter element 60 is a filter screen, which is installed at the second inlet 142 and the second outlet 143 by means of heat fusion or snap-fit. The mesh size of the filter screen is smaller than the particle size of the soft water material 20, so that the water flow can pass through the mesh of the filter screen, while the soft water material 20 particles are blocked on one side of the filter screen because their particle size is larger than the mesh size.

[0145] In another embodiment, the second filter element 60 may be a grid, which may be integrally formed with the housing 10 or separately. The grid holes form channels for water to flow through, and the grid bars form a structure to block the soft water material 20. The size of the grid holes is smaller than the particle size of the soft water material 20, so that water can pass through while the soft water material 20 cannot.

[0146] According to some embodiments of this application, please refer to Figure 7 , Figure 9 The water softening device 100 also includes a third filter element 70 disposed at the first water inlet 1311, which is used to filter particulate impurities in the water.

[0147] The third filter element 70 is installed at the first water inlet 1311 to filter particulate impurities in the water. When the sealing element 30 opens the first water inlet 1311, water flows through the first water inlet 1311 into the first channel 13. The third filter element 70 filters the water entering the first water inlet 1311 to remove particulate impurities such as mud, suspended solids, and rust, preventing these impurities from entering the first channel 13 or the downstream cleaning chamber.

[0148] In one embodiment, the third filter element 70 is a PP cotton filter element. PP cotton (polypropylene meltblown filter element) is made of polypropylene ultrafine fiber thermally entangled and has a porous structure, which can effectively intercept particulate impurities such as mud, rust, and suspended solids in the water. The filtration accuracy of the PP cotton filter element can be selected according to actual needs.

[0149] According to some embodiments of this application, please refer to Figure 7 , Figure 9 Along the height direction of the shell 10, the second outlet 143 is located above the second inlet 142.

[0150] In this embodiment, the second outlet 143 is higher than the second inlet 142, which increases the resistance of water from the second inlet 142 to the second outlet 143. This is beneficial for the water in the water tank 200 to enter the first channel 13 first from the first inlet 1311, so that water that has not been treated by the soft water material 20 is provided to clean the object in the initial stage of cleaning.

[0151] According to some embodiments of this application, the soft water material 20 includes a mixed bed resin.

[0152] The water softening material 20 is a mixed bed resin, which helps to improve the softening effect.

[0153] It is understandable that mixed bed resins can adsorb cations such as calcium, magnesium, sodium, and potassium ions, as well as anions such as chloride, carbonate, sulfate, and nitrate ions, thereby reducing the hardness and total dissolved solids (TDS) concentration of water.

[0154] In this way, the amount of scale that will precipitate after the softened water is heated is greatly reduced, which helps to prevent scale buildup on components such as the heating plate, water circuit, and spray arm inside the cleaning machine, and helps to extend the life of these components.

[0155] Understandably, the heating plate is used to heat the cleaning water, the water circuit is used to transport the cleaning water, and the spray arm has spray holes that can spray water jets toward the items to be cleaned.

[0156] According to some embodiments of this application, please refer to Figure 7 , Figure 9 , Figure 12 The water softening device 100 is installed inside the water tank 200. The water softening device 100 also includes a first connector 1222 provided in the housing 10. The first connector 1222 is used to connect the water softening device 100 and the water tank 200.

[0157] Through the above technical solution, the water softening device 100 can be installed inside the water tank 200, and the water softening device 100 can be connected to the water tank 200 through the first connector 1222. In this way, the water tank 200 can soften the water through the water softening device 100, thereby providing softened water.

[0158] Optionally, the first connector 1222 can be a magnetic component, used for magnetic connection with the water tank 200. This allows the water softener 100 to be easily connected to and disconnected from the water tank 200 via the first connector 1222, facilitating replacement or maintenance of the water softener 100.

[0159] Optionally, the first connector 1222 can also be a snap-fit ​​component, and a snap-fit ​​structure for engaging with the snap-fit ​​component can be provided inside the water tank 200.

[0160] Optionally, the first connector 1222 can also be a threaded connector, and a threaded hole can be provided inside the water tank 200, so that the threaded connector can be threadedly engaged with the threaded hole.

[0161] Optionally, the bottom wall of the housing 10 may be provided with a receiving groove 1221, and the first connecting member 1222 may be disposed in the receiving groove 1221.

[0162] Optionally, the interior of the receiving tank 1221 can form a closed space, and the first connecting member 1222 is disposed in the closed space. This helps to prevent water from the cavity 123 and the water tank 200 from entering the receiving tank 1221.

[0163] Optionally, the water tank 200 may also include a second connector 230 for connecting with the first connector 1222. The second connector 230 may be a magnetic component, which facilitates the magnetic connection between the first connector 1222 and the second connector 230.

[0164] Optionally, the water tank 200 may also be provided with an installation groove 220, and the second connector 230 may be disposed within the installation groove 220. The installation groove 220 may have an opening on one side, and the opening of the installation groove 220 is positioned away from the internal cavity of the water tank 200, thus facilitating the insertion of the second connector 230 into the installation groove 220.

[0165] According to some embodiments of this application, please refer to Figure 7 , Figure 9 The first channel 13 includes a first sub-channel 131, a second sub-channel 132, and a third sub-channel 133 that are connected to each other. The first sub-channel 131 is located at the top of the cavity 123, and the third sub-channel 133 is located at the bottom of the cavity 123. The soft water device 100 also includes a delivery pipe 80 disposed in the cavity 123. The inner cavity of the delivery pipe 80 forms the second sub-channel 132. The first inlet 1311 and the first outlet 1331 are both disposed in the housing 10. Along the height direction of the housing 10, the first sub-channel 131 forms the first inlet 1311 at the top of the housing 10, and the third sub-channel 133 forms the first outlet 1331 at the bottom of the housing 10. The second outlet 143 is disposed in the delivery pipe 80.

[0166] The first channel 13 is disposed in the cavity 123 of the housing 10 and is used to transport unsoftened water or water softened by the second channel 14 to the first outlet 1331 for discharge. The first channel 13 is composed of a first sub-channel 131, a second sub-channel 132 and a third sub-channel 133 connected in sequence. The first sub-channel 131 is located at the top of the cavity 123, the third sub-channel 133 is located at the bottom of the cavity 123, and the second sub-channel 132 is connected between the first sub-channel 131 and the third sub-channel 133. The first sub-channel 131 and the third sub-channel 133 are spaced apart along the height direction of the housing 10, and the second sub-channel 132 extends along the height direction of the housing 10.

[0167] The water softening device 100 also includes a delivery pipe 80 disposed in the cavity 123. The inner cavity of the delivery pipe 80 forms a second sub-channel 132. The delivery pipe 80 is a tubular structure disposed in the cavity 123 and extends along the height direction of the housing 10. The lower end of the delivery pipe 80 is connected to the third sub-channel 133 and the upper end is connected to the first sub-channel 131. The inner cavity of the delivery pipe 80 forms the second sub-channel 132, which is used to deliver water from the first sub-channel 131 to the third sub-channel 133, or to deliver water from the third sub-channel 133 to the first sub-channel 131.

[0168] Both the first inlet 1311 and the first outlet 1331 are located on the shell 10. Along the height direction of the shell 10, the first sub-channel 131 forms the first inlet 1311 at the top of the shell 10, and the third sub-channel 133 forms the first outlet 1331 at the bottom of the shell 10. That is, the first inlet 1311 is located at the top of the shell 10 and is connected to the first sub-channel 131; the first outlet 1331 is located at the bottom of the shell 10 and is connected to the third sub-channel 133. After the water flows from the first inlet 1311 at the top into the first sub-channel 131, it flows downward through the conveying pipe 80 (the second sub-channel 132) to the third sub-channel 133 and is discharged from the first outlet 1331 at the bottom.

[0169] Please see Figure 10 The second outlet 143 is located on the conveying pipe 80. That is, the second outlet 143 of the second channel 14 is located on the pipe wall of the conveying pipe 80. The water softened by the second channel 14 flows into the conveying pipe 80. The softened water enters the conveying pipe 80 (second sub-channel 132) through the second outlet 143 and is discharged through the first outlet 1331.

[0170] In one embodiment, the housing 10 includes a first housing 11 and a second housing 12, wherein the first housing 11 covers the top of the second housing 12 (the first housing 11 is a housing structure with an open bottom) and forms a water inlet cavity 111 between the first housing 11 and the second housing 12. That is, the first housing 11 serves as the upper cover part of the housing 10, and the second housing 12 serves as the main body part of the housing 10. The first housing 11 covers the upper end of the second housing 12, and the space between the two defines the water inlet cavity 111. The water inlet cavity 111 is used to accommodate water entering from the third water inlet 112 and serves as a transfer space for water flow distribution.

[0171] A cavity 123 is formed inside the second shell 12. The cavity 123 is used to accommodate the first channel 13, the second channel 14 and the soft water material 20. The cavity 123 is located below the water inlet cavity 111.

[0172] The third water inlet 112 is located on the side wall of the first shell 11, that is, the third water inlet 112 is located on the peripheral side wall or top wall of the first shell 11, and the external water source enters the water inlet cavity 111 through the third water inlet 112.

[0173] The first sub-channel 131 is formed on the top of the second shell 12, and the first sub-channel 131 extends to one end of the top wall of the second shell 12 to form a first inlet 1311. That is, the first sub-channel 131 is disposed inside or on the top wall of the second shell 12, and its opening is on the upper surface of the top wall of the second shell 12, communicating with the water inlet cavity 111 to form the first inlet 1311. Water flows from the water inlet cavity 111 through the first inlet 1311 into the first sub-channel 131. The sealing member 30 is rotatably installed on the top wall of the second shell 12, and the sealing member 30 is located in the water inlet cavity 111 enclosed by the first shell 11 and the second shell 12.

[0174] The third sub-channel 133 is formed at the bottom of the second shell 12, and the third sub-channel 133 extends to one end of the bottom wall of the second shell 12 to form a first outlet 1331. That is, the third sub-channel 133 is located inside or at the bottom wall of the second shell 12, and its opening is on the lower surface of the bottom wall of the second shell 12, forming the first outlet 1331. Water flows from the third sub-channel 133 through the first outlet 1331 to the outside of the shell 10.

[0175] In the case where the housing 10 has a cover formed by the first shell 11 at the top, the sealing member 30 is rotatably fixed to the outer wall of the housing 10 via a rotating shaft and blocks or opens the first water inlet 1311 by rotating around the rotating shaft; in a further optimized embodiment of this, the first shell 11 limits the sealing member 30, and in order to open the water inlet space around the first water inlet 1311 as much as possible, a notch 34 for the cover is provided on the upper surface of the buoyancy part 35 on the side away from the rotating shaft, specifically as follows: Figure 4-6 As shown, the buoyancy part 35 of the second end 32 of the sealing member 30 has a notch 34 on the side facing the top wall of the water inlet cavity 111. The notch 34 can avoid the top wall of the water inlet cavity 111, which can increase the range of motion of the sealing member 30 and facilitate opening the water inlet space around the first water inlet 1311.

[0176] In one embodiment, a second inlet 142 is also formed on the second shell 12, that is, the second inlet 142 is disposed on the lower part of the side wall of the second shell 12 and communicates with the second channel 14. The position of the second inlet 142 is lower than that of the first inlet 1311, so that when the water level in the water tank 200 is low, water can enter the second channel 14 from the second inlet 142 to provide softened water.

[0177] In another embodiment, the second inlet 142 is formed on the bottom wall of the second shell 12, and the bottom wall of the second shell 12 and the bottom wall of the water tank 200 are spaced apart along the height direction, so that the water in the water tank 200 can enter the second channel 14 through the space between the bottom wall of the second shell 12 and the bottom wall of the water tank 200 through the second inlet 142, and be softened by the water softening material 20.

[0178] Please see Figure 3 , Figure 6 , Figure 7 The second shell 12 includes a first sub-shell 121 and a second sub-shell 122 connected together. Both the first sub-shell 121 and the second sub-shell 122 are set as open structures facing each other. The first sub-shell 121 and the second sub-shell 122 are connected together to form a cavity 123. The first water inlet 1311 is provided on the first sub-shell 121, the first water outlet 1331 is provided on the second sub-shell 122, and the second water inlet 142 can be provided on the second sub-shell 122 or on the first sub-shell 121.

[0179] The second shell 12 is divided into a first sub-shell 121 and a second sub-shell 122 that are connected together, so that the soft water material 20, the delivery pipe 80, the partition, etc. can be installed in the cavity.

[0180] Optionally, the first sub-shell 121 and the second sub-shell 122 can be connected by ultrasonic welding.

[0181] In one embodiment, the delivery pipe 80 and the second shell 12 can be connected by snap-fit ​​or other means. The delivery pipe 80 is disposed in the cavity 123 of the second shell 12 and extends along the height direction of the shell 10. The upper end of the delivery pipe 80 is connected to the first sub-channel 131 and the lower end is connected to the third sub-channel 133. The delivery pipe 80 and the second shell 12 are fixedly connected by snap-fit, plug-in, threaded connection or integral molding, so as to ensure that the position of the delivery pipe 80 in the cavity 123 is stable.

[0182] The two second channels 14 are connected to each other on one side. The conveying pipe 80 is located at the position where the two second channels 14 are connected on one side, and the area where the two second channels 14 are connected on one side surrounds the conveying pipe 80. That is, the area between the outer periphery of the conveying pipe 80 and the inner wall of the cavity 123 is the connecting area of ​​the two second channels 14. Specifically, the delivery pipe 80 is located in the central region of the cavity 123 and extends along the height direction of the shell 10. The two second channels 14 are located on the left and right sides of the delivery pipe 80, respectively. The two second channels 14 are interconnected on the side near the delivery pipe 80 through a connecting area surrounding the delivery pipe 80. This connecting area is an annular space that surrounds the outer periphery of the delivery pipe 80 and is formed by the outer wall of the delivery pipe 80 and the inner wall of the cavity 123. The softened water in the left second channel 14 eventually flows into this annular connecting area, and the softened water in the right second channel 14 also eventually flows into this annular connecting area.

[0183] Optionally, multiple second outlets 143 can be provided on the peripheral sidewall of the conveying pipe 80. The multiple second outlets 143 are distributed at intervals along the circumference of the conveying pipe 80. Softened water in the annular connecting area can enter the conveying pipe 80 simultaneously through the multiple second outlets 143 (that is, the two second channels 14 share multiple second outlets 143). The multiple second outlets 143 provide multiple water inlet channels, increase the flow area of ​​softened water entering the conveying pipe 80, and help improve the efficiency of softened water entering the first channel 13.

[0184] In one embodiment, the first shell 11 and the second shell 12 can be connected by snap-fit, screw, or other means, that is, the first shell 11 and the second shell 12 can be detachably connected by snap-fit, screw, bolt, or magnetic attraction, which facilitates assembly, disassembly and maintenance.

[0185] Please see Figure 4 , Figure 6 The water softening device 100 also includes a handle 113, which is connected to the first housing 11, making it easy to move the water softening device 100 and to pick it up and put it down.

[0186] Optionally, the handle 113 is rotatably connected to the first housing 11 and can rotate between a third position and a fourth position. When the handle 113 is in the third position, it is convenient for the user to hold the handle 113. When the handle 113 is in the fourth position, the overall size of the water softener 100 can be reduced.

[0187] Optionally, the first housing 11 is provided with a groove 114, and when the handle 113 is in the fourth position, at least a part of the handle 113 can be hidden in the groove 114. This helps to reduce the overall size of the water softener 100 and also improves its aesthetics.

[0188] According to some embodiments of this application, please refer to Figure 11 , Figure 12 The water tank 200 is provided with a drain outlet 210 that communicates with the first outlet 1331. The water softening device 100 also includes a sealing element 81 provided on the housing 10, and the sealing element 81 surrounds the first outlet 1331. The water softening device 100 is sealed to the water tank 200 through the sealing element 81.

[0189] In this way, the seal 81 can seal the connection between the first outlet 1331 and the drain outlet 210, which helps to prevent water in the water tank 200 from being discharged directly from the drain outlet 210.

[0190] Among them, the sealing element 81 can be an annular rubber sealing gasket or other annular sealing structure.

[0191] In one implementation, please refer to Figure 12The bottom wall of the shell 10 protrudes upward to form a cylindrical body. The cylindrical body is integrally connected to the bottom wall of the shell 10. The cylindrical body extends upward along the height direction of the shell 10 and is hollow inside to form a third sub-channel 133. The third sub-channel 133 extends axially along the cylindrical body and is used to guide water from the conveying pipe 80 to the bottom of the shell 10 and discharge it.

[0192] The sealing element 81 includes an annular main body portion 811 and a first flange portion 812 connected to the upper circumferential side of the annular main body portion 811. The first flange portion 812 extends outward along the radial direction of the sealing element 81. The sealing element 81 is disposed between the bottom of the conveying pipe 80 and the cylinder body to seal the connection between the conveying pipe 80 and the cylinder body, preventing water that has not yet been softened from entering the first channel 13 through the connection between the conveying pipe 80 and the cylinder body, thereby reducing the softening effect.

[0193] Please see Figure 12 The outer diameter of the conveying pipe 80 is smaller than the inner diameter of the cylinder body. The outer wall of the annular main body 811 is in close contact with the inner wall of the cylinder body, that is, the outer circumferential surface of the annular main body 811 of the sealing element 81 is in close contact with the inner wall surface of the cylinder body to form a radial seal. The inner wall of the annular main body 811 is in close contact with the bottom outer circumferential side of the conveying pipe 80, that is, the lower end of the conveying pipe 80 is inserted into the annular main body 811 of the sealing element 81, and the outer circumferential wall of the bottom of the conveying pipe 80 is in close contact with the inner wall of the sealing element 81 to form a radial seal.

[0194] The bottom of the conveying pipe 80 is at least partially inserted into the cylinder body, and the portion of the conveying pipe 80 that is not inserted into the cylinder body is provided with a protrusion 82 extending radially outward along the conveying pipe 80. The first flange 812 is sandwiched between the protrusion and the upper end face of the cylinder body, that is, the first flange 812 is axially sandwiched between the protrusion of the conveying pipe 80 and the upper end face of the cylinder body to form an axial seal. The upper and lower surfaces of the first flange 812 are tightly fitted with the protrusion of the conveying pipe 80 and the top end face of the cylinder body, respectively, to further improve the sealing effect.

[0195] Optionally, an extension 8121 extending toward the bottom wall of the water tank 200 may be integrally provided on the periphery of the first flange portion 812 away from the center of the annular main body portion 811, such that the extension 8121, the first flange portion 812, and at least part of the annular main body portion 811 enclose a clamping cavity, such that at least part of the upper end of the cylinder body is clamped in the clamping cavity, which can further improve the installation and positioning effect of the seal 81.

[0196] Please see Figure 12The bottom of the annular main body 811 extends downward from the main body of the cylinder, and the extended part is connected to the second flange 813. The second flange 813 extends outward along the radial direction of the seal 81. The second flange 813 abuts against the bottom wall of the water tank 200 and is arranged around the drain outlet 210.

[0197] The direct contact between the second flange 813 and the bottom wall of the water tank 200 achieves a seal between the water softener 100 and the water tank 200, preventing water in the water tank 200 from leaking around the drain outlet 210 and ensuring the uniqueness of the water flow path. At the same time, the second flange 813 is arranged around the drain outlet 210 so that all the water treated by the water softener 100 can be pumped out by the water pump through the drain outlet 210 without mixing in untreated water.

[0198] According to some embodiments of this application, please refer to Figure 11 , Figure 12 Along the height direction of the shell 10, the second water inlet 142 is located at the bottom of the shell 10.

[0199] In this embodiment, the second inlet 142 is located at the lower part of the housing 10 and is used to introduce water from the water tank 200 into the second channel 14 of the water softener 100. Along the height direction of the housing 10, the second inlet 142 is located in the bottom area of ​​the housing 10, so that when the water level in the water tank 200 is low, water can still enter the second channel 14 through the second inlet 142, so as to make full use of the water in the water tank 200.

[0200] In one embodiment, the second inlet 142 is located on the bottom wall of the housing 10 and is spaced apart from the bottom wall of the water tank 200 along the height direction. That is, the second inlet 142 penetrates the bottom wall of the housing 10 and maintains a certain distance from the bottom wall of the water tank 200 in the vertical direction. This distance ensures that sediments (such as mud, sand, particles, etc.) at the bottom of the water tank 200 are not directly sucked into the second inlet 142. The water has a settling space before entering the second inlet 142, which reduces the risk of sediments entering the water softener 100 with the water flow and helps protect the water softening material 20 in the second channel 14 and downstream components.

[0201] Please see Figure 12 The housing 10 is provided with a receiving groove 1221 for installing the first connector 1222. The receiving groove 1221 is provided on the bottom wall of the housing 10 and is used to receive the first connector 1222. The receiving groove 1221 protrudes downward from the bottom wall of the housing 10 along the height direction of the housing 10. That is, the receiving groove 1221 is formed by protruding downward from the lower surface of the bottom wall of the housing 10 and protrudes outside the bottom wall of the housing 10.

[0202] Because the receiving groove 1221 protrudes from the bottom wall of the housing 10, the bottom wall of the housing 10 and the bottom wall of the water tank 200 can maintain a certain distance in the height direction. Specifically, when the water softening device 100 is installed in the water tank 200, the bottom wall of the housing 10 abuts against the bottom wall of the water tank 200 through the protruding receiving groove 1221, while other areas of the bottom wall of the housing 10 form a gap with the bottom wall of the water tank 200. This gap allows the bottom wall of the housing 10 and the bottom wall of the water tank 200 to maintain a distance in the height direction, which facilitates water to enter the second channel 14 from the second inlet 142.

[0203] Thirdly, this application provides a cleaning machine, which includes a water softening device 100, a water tank 200, and a water pump. The water softening device 100 is located inside the water tank 200, and the water tank 200 is provided with a drain outlet 210 connected to a first water outlet 1331. The water pump is connected to the drain outlet 210 and is used to draw water from the water tank 200.

[0204] The cleaning machine provided in this application embodiment has the same or similar technical effects as the soft water device 100 in any of the above embodiments, and will not be described again here.

[0205] When the first inlet 1311 is blocked, the water pump can generate negative pressure in the first channel 13 and the cavity 123, so that the water in the water tank 200 can enter the second channel 14 and be softened by the water softening material 20, and then enter the first channel 13 and be pumped away by the water pump.

[0206] The above are merely exemplary embodiments of this application and do not limit the patent scope of this application. Any equivalent structural transformations made based on the technical concept of this application and the contents of the specification and drawings of this application, or direct / indirect applications in other related technical fields, are included within the patent protection scope of this application.

Claims

1. A cleaning control method for a cleaning machine, characterized in that, The cleaning machine includes a water tank and a water softening device disposed in the water tank. The water softening device includes a housing, a first channel and a second channel disposed in the housing, and a sealing member disposed at the water inlet of the first channel. The second channel is provided with water softening material. The cleaning control method for the cleaning machine includes: The position of the sealing component is controlled based on the water level in the water tank. When the water level is higher than a preset threshold, the sealing component is in the second position and the inlet of the first channel is opened, so that water flows through the first channel to be discharged, in order to clean the cleaning material. When the water level is lower than or equal to the preset threshold, the sealing component is in the first position and closes the inlet of the first channel, allowing water to flow through the second channel and be softened by the soft water material in the second channel before being discharged, so as to perform final cleaning of the cleaning material.

2. The cleaning control method for a cleaning machine as described in claim 1, characterized in that, Controlling the position of the sealing component based on the water level in the water tank includes: When the water level is higher than the preset threshold, the buoyancy of the sealing element is greater than the weight of the sealing element, and the sealing element switches from the first position to the second position; When the water level is lower than or equal to the preset threshold, the buoyancy of the sealing element is less than the weight of the sealing element, and the sealing element switches from the second position to the first position.

3. The cleaning control method for a cleaning machine as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The second channel has a second inlet and a second outlet, the second outlet is connected to the first channel, and the height of the second inlet is lower than the height of the inlet of the first channel; The step of allowing water to flow through the second channel and be softened by the water softening material in the second channel before being discharged includes: allowing water to flow into the second channel from the second inlet and be treated by the water softening material, then flowing into the first channel through the second outlet, and being discharged through the outlet of the first channel.

4. A water softening device, characterized in that, The water softening device includes: The housing has a cavity, a first channel, and at least one second channel, wherein the first channel and the second channel are both located in the cavity, the first channel has a first inlet and a first outlet, the second channel has a second inlet and a second outlet, the second outlet communicates with the first channel, and the second channel is arranged in a folded-back shape within the cavity; along the height direction of the housing, the first inlet is located above the second inlet; A soft water material is filled into the second channel, and the soft water material is located between the second inlet and the second outlet; A sealing element is provided at the first water inlet and is used to block or open the first water inlet.

5. The water softening device as described in claim 4, characterized in that, The second channel includes multiple sub-channels arranged along the first direction, the sub-channels extending along the second direction, and the multiple sub-channels being connected end to end in sequence, so that the water flow can flow back and forth within the second channel; Along the first direction, one of the sub-channels located on one side is connected to the second inlet, and the other sub-channel located on the other side is connected to the second outlet. The first direction intersects with the second direction.

6. The water softening device as described in claim 5, characterized in that, The plurality of sub-channels are arranged sequentially along the length direction of the housing, and the plurality of sub-channels extend along the height direction of the housing; Along the direction of water flow, the multiple sub-channels are connected end to end. Along the length of the shell, one of the sub-channels on one side is connected to the second inlet, and the other sub-channel on the other side is connected to the second outlet.

7. The water softening device as described in claim 6, characterized in that, The water softening device includes a plurality of first baffles arranged at intervals along the length of the shell. A first connecting port is provided on the first partition between two adjacent sub-channels, and the first connecting port is alternately arranged at the top and bottom of the first partition along the length direction of the housing; The first connecting port located at the top of the first partition forms a first opening, which is used to connect the tops of two adjacent sub-channels. The first connecting port located at the bottom of the first partition forms a second opening, which is used to connect the bottoms of two adjacent sub-channels.

8. The water softening device as described in claim 7, characterized in that, The water softening device further includes a first filter element disposed at the first opening and / or the second opening, the first filter element being used to supply water and prevent the water softening material from passing through.

9. The water softening device as described in claim 5, characterized in that, The plurality of sub-channels are arranged sequentially along the height direction of the housing, and the plurality of sub-channels extend along the length direction of the housing; Along the direction of water flow, the multiple sub-channels are connected end to end. Along the height direction of the shell, the lowermost sub-channel is connected to the second inlet, and the uppermost sub-channel is connected to the second outlet.

10. The water softening device as described in claim 9, characterized in that, The water softening device includes a plurality of second baffles arranged at intervals along the height direction of the housing. Along the length of the housing, the second partition has a first side and a second side disposed opposite to each other. A second communication port is provided on the second partition between two adjacent sub-channels, and the second communication port is alternately arranged on the first side and the second side of the second partition along the height direction of the housing; The second connecting port located on the first side constitutes a third opening, which is used to connect the ends of two adjacent sub-channels located on the first side along the length direction of the housing. The second connecting port located on the second side constitutes a fourth opening, which is used to connect the ends of two adjacent sub-channels located on the second side along the length direction of the housing.

11. The water softening device according to any one of claims 4-10, characterized in that, There are two second channels, with one second channel located on each side of the first channel along the length of the housing.

12. The water softening device according to any one of claims 4-10, characterized in that, The sealing element is used to switch between a first position and a second position under the action of buoyancy and gravity. In the first position, the sealing element blocks the first water inlet, and in the second position, the sealing element opens the first water inlet. When the buoyancy is greater than the gravity, the sealing member switches from the first position to the second position; when the buoyancy is less than the gravity, the sealing member switches from the second position to the first position.

13. The water softening device as described in claim 12, characterized in that, The sealing element is rotatably connected to the housing to switch between the first position and the second position.

14. The water softening device as described in claim 13, characterized in that, The sealing component includes a first end and a second end disposed opposite to each other, the first end being rotatably connected to the housing; When the sealing member is in the first position, the second end of the sealing member overlaps with the housing to block the first water inlet, and the second end and the first end are spaced apart in the horizontal direction.

15. The water softening device as described in claim 12, characterized in that, The sealing element is movable along the height direction of the housing to switch between the first position and the second position; When the sealing member is in the first position, the sealing member abuts against the housing to block the first water inlet.

16. The water softening device as described in claim 12, characterized in that, The surface where the first water inlet is located intersects with the height direction of the shell.

17. The water softening device according to any one of claims 4-10, characterized in that, The housing also includes a water inlet chamber and a third water inlet communicating with the water inlet chamber; Along the height direction of the housing, the water inlet cavity is located above the container cavity, the first water inlet is connected to the water inlet cavity, and the sealing member is disposed in the water inlet cavity.

18. The water softening device as described in claim 17, characterized in that, The third water inlet is provided in multiple ways, and at least one of the third water inlets is located adjacent to the cavity along the height direction of the shell.

19. The water softening device according to any one of claims 4-10, characterized in that, The water softening device further includes a second filter element, which is disposed at the second inlet and / or the second outlet. The second filter element is used to supply water and prevent the water softening material from passing through.

20. The water softening device according to any one of claims 4-10, characterized in that, The water softening device also includes a third filter element disposed at the first water inlet, the third filter element being used to filter particulate impurities in the water.

21. The water softening device according to any one of claims 4-10, characterized in that, Along the height direction of the housing, the second outlet is located above the second inlet.

22. The water softening device according to any one of claims 4-10, characterized in that, The soft water material includes a mixed bed resin.

23. The water softening device according to any one of claims 4-10, characterized in that, The water softening device is installed inside the water tank. The water softening device also includes a first connector disposed on the housing, which is used to connect the water softening device to the water tank.

24. The water softening device as described in claim 23, characterized in that, The first connector includes a magnetic component, and the first connector is magnetically connected to the water tank.

25. The water softening device according to any one of claims 4-10, characterized in that, The first channel includes a first sub-channel, a second sub-channel, and a third sub-channel that are connected to each other. The first sub-channel is located at the top of the cavity, and the third sub-channel is located at the bottom of the cavity. The water softening device also includes a delivery pipe disposed in the cavity, and the inner cavity of the delivery pipe forms the second sub-channel. Both the first inlet and the first outlet are located on the housing. Along the height direction of the housing, the first sub-channel forms the first inlet at the top of the housing, and the third sub-channel forms the first outlet at the bottom of the housing. The second water outlet is located in the conveying pipe.

26. The water softening device according to any one of claims 4-10, characterized in that, The water softening device is installed inside a water tank, which has a drain outlet that communicates with the first water outlet. The water softening device also includes a sealing element disposed on the housing, and the sealing element surrounds the first water outlet. The water softening device is sealed to the water tank through the sealing element.

27. The water softening device as described in claim 26, characterized in that, Along the height direction of the housing, the second water inlet is located at the bottom of the housing.

28. The water softening device according to any one of claims 4-10, characterized in that, The sealing component includes a buoyancy part and a sealing part connected to the buoyancy part for sealing or opening the first water inlet. The sealing part is elastic and has a shape that mates with the outer edge or inner circumference of the opening of the first water inlet.

29. The water softening device according to any one of claims 28, characterized in that, The top of the shell has a cover, and the sealing member is rotatably fixed to the outer wall of the shell by a rotating shaft and can block or open the first water inlet by rotating around the rotating shaft. The upper surface of the buoyancy part away from the rotating shaft has a notch to allow the cover to pass.

30. A cleaning machine, characterized in that, The cleaning machine includes: The water softening device as described in any one of claims 4-29; A water tank, wherein the water softening device is disposed inside the water tank, and the water tank is provided with a drain outlet connected to the first water outlet; A water pump, connected to the drain outlet, is used to draw water from the water tank.

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