Cleaning machine

Abstract

The utility model discloses a cleaning machine, and relates to the technical field of household appliances, the cleaning machine comprises a washing cavity used for placing tableware and / or kitchen ware, the bottom of the washing cavity is provided with a water collecting tank; the cooling unit is used for cooling the flowing gas, and water discharged by the cooling unit can flow into the water collecting tank; the washing cavity, the cooling unit and the fan are communicated to form a circulating air duct; an inlet of the first pump is communicated with the water collecting tank or a water inlet port used for being connected with a water source, and an outlet of the first pump can be communicated with the cooling unit. The structure can be simplified and the cost can be reduced on the basis that damp and hot gas formed by hot air drying is not exhausted into a room.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The utility model relates to the technical field of household appliances, in particular to a cleaning machine. Background Art

[0002] After a washing machine finishes washing tableware and / or kitchenware, a large amount of water remains on the tableware and / or kitchenware, so they need to be dried to reduce the possibility of bacterial growth later. Currently, there are generally two drying methods for washing machines: one is to directly exhaust the air after hot air drying, and the other is to use a crystal bud method to dehumidify the air during hot air drying. In the case of directly exhausting the air after hot air drying, the hot and humid air generated by hot air drying is simply condensed and discharged into the room. A large amount of steam will be generated at the exhaust port of the washing machine, and condensation will form on the cabinets and the floor, causing inconvenience to the user and affecting the user experience. In the case of using a crystal bud method to dehumidify the air, the hot and humid air generated by hot air drying is absorbed by the crystal buds inside the washing machine. The absorbed air can then be continuously input into the washing chamber for recycling. However, this type of washing machine has a relatively complex structure and is relatively expensive. Therefore, there is a need for a washing machine with a relatively simple structure and low cost, which can achieve hot air drying of tableware and / or kitchenware without exhausting the hot and humid air generated by hot air drying into the room. Utility Model Content

[0003] In order to overcome the above-mentioned defects of the prior art, the technical problem to be solved by the embodiment of the present invention is to provide a cleaning machine that can simplify the structure and reduce costs on the basis that the hot and humid gas formed by hot air drying is not discharged into the room.

[0004] The specific technical solution of the embodiment of the utility model is:

[0005] A cleaning machine, comprising:

[0006] A washing chamber, used for placing tableware and / or kitchen utensils, wherein a water collecting tank is provided at the bottom of the washing chamber;

[0007] A cooling unit for cooling the gas flowing through the cooling unit, wherein the water discharged from the cooling unit can flow into the water collecting tank;

[0008] A fan, wherein the washing chamber, the cooling unit and the fan are connected to form a circulating air duct;

[0009] A first pump, wherein the inlet of the first pump is communicated with the water collecting tank or the water inlet port for connecting to a water source, and the outlet of the first pump can be communicated with the cooling unit.

[0010] Preferably, the cleaning machine comprises:

[0011] A humidity detection unit is provided for detecting the humidity of the gas flowing into the cooling unit.

[0012] Preferably, when the humidity of the gas flowing into the cooling unit detected by the humidity detection unit is higher than a first preset value or the cleaning machine enters a drying mode, the cooling unit is in an operating state.

[0013] Preferably, the cooling unit includes a cooling flow channel and a spray unit that sprays water into the gas flowing through the cooling flow channel. The washing chamber, the cooling flow channel and the fan are connected to form the circulating air duct; the spray unit is used to cool the gas flowing through, and the water sprayed by the spray unit can be discharged into the water collecting tank, and the outlet of the first pump can be connected to the spray unit.

[0014] Preferably, the cooling unit includes a cooling channel and a heat exchange unit arranged in the cooling channel, and the washing chamber, the cooling channel and the fan are connected to form the circulating air duct; the heat exchange unit is used to cool the gas flowing through; the outlet of the first pump can be connected to the inlet of the heat exchange unit, and the water discharged from the outlet of the heat exchange unit can flow into the water collection tank.

[0015] Preferably, the cooling unit includes a containing structure capable of containing water, the washing chamber, the fan and the containing structure are connected to form the circulating air duct, the gas flowing into the containing structure can be passed into the water in the containing structure to exchange heat with the water for cooling, and then the gas is discharged from the water; the outlet of the first pump can be connected to the containing structure, and the water discharged from the containing structure can flow into the water collection tank.

[0016] Preferably, the cleaning machine comprises:

[0017] The water collecting unit is used to collect the liquid water generated when the gas flows through the cooling channel and the water sprayed by the spraying unit.

[0018] Preferably, the cleaning machine comprises:

[0019] The water collecting unit is used to collect liquid water generated on the surface of the heat exchange unit when the gas flows through the cooling channel and / or water discharged from the outlet of the heat exchange unit.

[0020] Preferably, the cooling channel has a tendency to extend in a vertical direction, the inlet of the cooling channel is located at the upper part, and the outlet of the cooling channel is located at the lower part.

[0021] Preferably, the water collecting unit is located below the cooling channel.

[0022] Preferably, the water collecting unit can be communicated with the washing chamber or the water collecting tank.

[0023] Preferably, the water collecting unit is connected to the washing chamber or the water collecting tank through a first flow channel, and a switch valve is provided on the first flow channel.

[0024] Preferably, when the cooling unit includes a spray unit, the water collecting tank, the first pump, the spray unit, and the water collecting unit can form a water circuit circulation.

[0025] Preferably, the cleaning machine comprises: a demisting unit for removing water mist in the gas, and the demisting unit is located between the outlet of the cooling flow channel and the washing chamber.

[0026] Preferably, the demisting unit comprises: a plurality of stacked baffles, with gaps between adjacent baffles to form a demisting flow channel, and the demisting flow channel can be connected to the outlet of the cooling flow channel and the washing chamber respectively.

[0027] Preferably, the cleaning machine comprises:

[0028] The water collecting unit is configured such that the baffle plate tends to extend in a vertical direction and is located below the baffle plate to collect liquid droplets formed on the baffle plate.

[0029] Preferably, the demisting unit comprises: at least one demisting element having a mesh structure, the mesh structure forming a demisting flow channel, the demisting flow channel being able to communicate with the outlet of the cooling flow channel and the washing chamber respectively;

[0030] or,

[0031] The demisting unit comprises: a plurality of staggered columnar members, wherein demisting channels are formed between the columnar members, and the demisting channels are respectively connected to the outlet of the cooling channel and the washing chamber;

[0032] or,

[0033] The demisting unit includes: a plurality of swirl blades arranged around the circumference, a demisting flow channel is formed between the swirl blades, and the demisting flow channel can be communicated with the outlet of the cooling flow channel and the washing chamber respectively.

[0034] Preferably, the cleaning machine comprises:

[0035] A water collecting unit is located below the demisting element, the columnar element or the swirl blade to collect liquid droplets formed on the mesh structure, the columnar element or the swirl blade.

[0036] Preferably, the cleaning machine comprises:

[0037] The heating unit is used to heat and dry the tableware and / or kitchen utensils in the washing chamber.

[0038] Preferably, the heating unit is located on the circulation air duct between the cooling unit and the washing chamber.

[0039] Preferably, the cleaning machine comprises:

[0040] a spraying device, the spraying device being used to spray the tableware and / or the kitchenware in the washing chamber;

[0041] The water inlet of the spraying device can be communicated with the outlet of the first pump.

[0042] Preferably, the cleaning machine includes: a pipeline switching unit, through which the outlet of the first pump is connected to the water inlet of the spray device and the cooling unit respectively; the pipeline switching unit has a first working state and a second working state, in the first working state, the pipeline switching unit makes the outlet of the first pump and the cooling unit in a connected state, and the outlet of the first pump and the water inlet of the spray device in a disconnected state; in the second working state, the pipeline switching unit makes the outlet of the first pump and the cooling unit in a disconnected state, and the outlet of the first pump and the water inlet of the spray device in a connected state.

[0043] Preferably, the cleaning machine comprises: a drainage pipeline having a second pump, and one end of the drainage pipeline is connected to the water collecting tank.

[0044] Preferably, the cleaning machine comprises: a water inlet pipeline, one end of the water inlet pipeline is connected to the inlet of the first pump or the water collecting tank, and the other end of the water inlet pipeline is used to communicate with the water inlet port.

[0045] Preferably, the cleaning machine has an air inlet, an air outlet and an air duct control unit. The air duct control unit can control the connection and disconnection between the air inlet and the washing chamber, and the connection and disconnection between the air outlet and the washing chamber. Under the action of the fan, the air flowing into the air inlet can flow into the washing chamber, and the air in the washing chamber can be discharged from the air outlet.

[0046] Preferably, the air duct control unit has a first position state and a second position state. In the first position state, the air inlet and the washing chamber are in a disconnected state, and the air outlet and the washing chamber are in a disconnected state; in the second position state, the air inlet is in a connected state with the washing chamber through part of the circulating air duct, and the air outlet is in a connected state with the washing chamber through part of the circulating air duct, and the connecting point between the air inlet and the circulating air duct and the connecting point between the air outlet and the circulating air duct are in a disconnected state.

[0047] Preferably, the air duct control unit includes: an air duct switching valve installed at the opening of the side wall of the circulating air duct, the air duct switching valve includes a switching member that can rotate around a rotating axis, the opening includes the air inlet located on one side of the rotating axis and the air outlet located on the other side of the rotating axis, when the switching member is in a first position state, the switching member closes the opening; when the switching member is in a second position state, the switching member cuts off the connection between the air inlet and a part of the circulating air duct and the connection between the air outlet and a part of the circulating air duct, and the opening is open.

[0048] Preferably, the air duct control unit includes a first opening and closing valve for controlling the connection between the air inlet and the washing chamber and a second opening and closing valve for controlling the connection between the air outlet and the washing chamber. The inlet of the fan can be connected to the air inlet, and the outlet of the fan can be connected to the air outlet. The fan is located on the line from the air inlet through the washing chamber to the air outlet.

[0049] Preferably, the cleaning machine includes: a heating unit, which is located on the circulating air duct between the cooling unit and the washing chamber; the heating unit is located between the air inlet and the washing chamber, so that the air flowing into the air inlet can pass through the heating unit and then flow into the washing chamber.

[0050] Preferably, the washing machine has a drying mode, and the drying mode is used to dry the tableware and / or the kitchenware in the washing chamber;

[0051] The drying mode has a first sub-mode of the drying mode. In the first sub-mode of the drying mode, the fan is in an on state, the heating unit is in an on state, and the first pump is in an operating state.

[0052] The drying mode has a second drying mode sub-mode. In the second drying mode sub-mode, the fan is turned on, the heating unit is turned on, and the first pump is turned off.

[0053] Preferably, the cleaning machine comprises:

[0054] a control unit, the control unit being electrically connected to the fan and the humidity detection unit;

[0055] The control unit is used to control the rotation speed of the fan according to the humidity of the gas flowing into the cooling unit detected by the humidity detection unit.

[0056] Preferably, when the humidity of the gas flowing into the cooling unit detected by the humidity detection unit is lower than a second preset value, the rotation speed of the fan is controlled to increase and the cooling unit is turned off.

[0057] Preferably, the cleaning machine comprises: a housing with an air duct formed therein, the housing having an air inlet and an air outlet communicated with the air duct;

[0058] The cooling flow channel includes at least a portion of the air duct, and the spray unit is installed on the housing to spray water into the cooling flow channel.

[0059] Preferably, the cleaning machine comprises: a housing with an air duct formed therein, the housing having an air inlet and an air outlet communicated with the air duct;

[0060] The cooling flow channel includes at least a portion of the air duct.

[0061] Preferably, the bottom of the interior of the housing forms a water collecting unit.

[0062] Preferably, the cleaning machine comprises: a demisting unit for removing water mist in the gas; the demisting unit is located in a portion of the air duct and downstream of the cooling flow channel.

[0063] Preferably, the shell has a partition extending in a vertical direction to form a U-shaped air duct in the shell, the U-shaped air duct includes a first vertical section and a second vertical section, the cooling flow channel includes at least part of the first vertical section, the defogger unit is located in the second vertical section, the air inlet is located at the upper part of the first vertical section, and the air outlet is located at the upper part of the second vertical section; the bottom of the U-shaped air duct forms a water collection unit.

[0064] Preferably, the pipeline switching unit includes:

[0065] A valve body, wherein the valve body has a valve body bottom wall and a valve body side wall, the valve body bottom wall and the valve body side wall form a receiving cavity, and the valve body side wall or the valve body bottom wall has a liquid inlet, a first liquid outlet and at least one second liquid outlet;

[0066] A water distribution member is disposed in the accommodating cavity, wherein the water distribution member has a water distribution member bottom wall and a water distribution member side wall, and the water distribution member bottom wall or the side wall has a communicating hole and a notch;

[0067] a sealing member for sealing the accommodating cavity;

[0068] A driving unit is used to drive the water distribution member to rotate, so that the liquid inlet is in a normally open state, the communicating hole can be aligned and communicated with one of the second liquid outlets, or the notch can be aligned and communicated with the first liquid outlet.

[0069] The technical solution of the utility model has the following significant beneficial effects:

[0070] When the washing machine dries the tableware and / or kitchenware placed in the washing chamber, hot and humid gas is formed in the washing chamber. The humidity of the hot and humid gas is relatively high. At this time, the fan can be started to drive the hot and humid gas to flow into the cooling unit. At the same time, water can be supplied to the cooling unit through the first pump, and the cooling unit can cool the hot and humid gas flowing through the cooling unit. The water vapor in the hot and humid gas will condense into liquid water. The liquid water and the water discharged from the cooling unit can flow into the water collection tank together. Through the above process, at least part of the water vapor in the hot and humid gas can be removed. Afterwards, the relatively dry gas will flow back to the washing chamber to remove the moisture in the washing chamber 1 to form hot and humid gas. This cycle continues until the tableware and / or kitchenware in the washing chamber are dried. The water in the water collection tank or the water input from the water source to the water inlet port of the washing machine will be input into the cooling unit under the drive of the first pump to be used by the cooling unit to cool the hot and humid gas flowing through the cooling unit. Through the above process, the dishes and / or kitchenware in the washing chamber can be dried without exhausting the hot and humid gases generated by hot air drying into the room, while simplifying the structure of the entire washing machine. Furthermore, when the first pump supplies water from the water collection tank to the cooling unit, the water used to cool the hot and humid gases flowing through the cooling unit can be recycled. Furthermore, the first pump of the washing machine, which is used to supply water to the spray device, can also be used to supply water to the cooling unit, thereby significantly reducing the equipment and operating costs of the washing machine.

[0071] With reference to the following description and drawings, specific embodiments of the present invention are disclosed in detail, indicating how the principles of the present invention can be employed. It should be understood that the embodiments of the present invention are not limited in scope. Features described and / or illustrated for one embodiment may be used in the same or similar manner in one or more other embodiments, combined with features in other embodiments, or substituted for features in other embodiments. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0072] The drawings described herein are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of the present invention in any way. Furthermore, the shapes and proportional dimensions of the components in the drawings are for illustrative purposes only and are intended to facilitate understanding of the present invention. They are not intended to limit the shapes and proportional dimensions of the components of the present invention. Those skilled in the art, guided by the present invention, may select various possible shapes and proportional dimensions to implement the present invention, depending on the specific circumstances.

[0073] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the cleaning machine in the embodiment of the present utility model;

[0074] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the cleaning machine structure in another feasible implementation manner in the embodiment of the present utility model;

[0075] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the air duct control unit in an embodiment of the present utility model when it is closed in one implementation manner;

[0076] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the air duct control unit in an embodiment of the present utility model when it is turned on in one implementation manner;

[0077] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of an air duct control unit in another embodiment of the present utility model;

[0078] Figure 6 Schematic diagram of the structure of the pipeline switching unit in the embodiment of the present utility model.

[0079] Reference numerals in the above drawings:

[0080] 1. Washing chamber; 2. Water collecting tank; 3. Cooling unit; 31. Cooling channel; 32. Spray unit; 4. Fan; 5. First pump; 6. Humidity detection unit; 7. Water collecting unit; 8. First channel; 9. Switch valve; 10. Demisting unit; 101. Baffle; 102. Demisting channel; 11. Heating unit; 12. Spray device; 13. Pipeline switching unit; 131. Valve body; 1311. Valve body bottom wall; 13111. Second liquid outlet; 1312. Valve body side wall; 13121. Liquid inlet; 13122. First liquid outlet; 132. Water distribution component; 1321. Water distribution component Bottom wall; 13211, connecting hole; 1322, side wall of water distribution component; 13221, notch; 133, sealing component; 134, drive unit; 14, drainage pipeline; 15, second pump; 16, water inlet pipeline; 17, air inlet; 18, air outlet; 19, air duct control unit; 191, air duct switching valve; 1911, switching component; 1912, rotating shaft; 192, first on-off valve; 193, second on-off valve; 20, shell; 201, air duct; 2011, first vertical section; 2012, second vertical section; 202, air inlet; 203, air outlet; 204, partition. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0081] The details of the present invention can be more clearly understood in conjunction with the accompanying drawings and the description of the specific embodiments of the present invention. However, the specific embodiments of the present invention described herein are intended solely for the purpose of illustrating the present invention and should not be construed as limiting the present invention in any way. Based on the teachings of the present invention, skilled artisans can conceive of any possible variations based on the present invention, all of which should be considered within the scope of the present invention. It should be noted that when an element is referred to as being "disposed on" another element, it can be directly on the other element or there can be an intermediate element. When an element is referred to as being "connected to" another element, it can be directly connected to the other element or there can be an intermediate element. The terms "mounted," "connected," and "connected" should be interpreted broadly, for example, to mean mechanical or electrical connections, internal communication between two elements, direct connection, or indirect connection through an intermediary. The specific meanings of these terms will be understood by those skilled in the art based on the specific circumstances. The terms "vertical," "horizontal," "upper," "lower," "left," "right," and similar expressions used herein are for illustrative purposes only and do not represent the only embodiments.

[0082] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by those skilled in the art to which this application pertains. The terms used herein in the specification of this application are intended only to describe specific embodiments and are not intended to limit this application. The term "and / or" as used herein includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

[0083] In order to simplify the structure and reduce the cost, a cleaning machine is proposed in this application, on the basis of not exhausting the hot and humid gas formed by hot air drying into the room. Figure 1 The schematic diagram of the cleaning machine structure in the embodiment of the present utility model is as follows: Figure 1 As shown, the washing machine may include: a washing chamber 1 for placing tableware and / or kitchen utensils, and a water collecting tank 2 is provided at the bottom of the washing chamber 1; a cooling unit 3 for cooling the gas flowing through, and the water discharged from the cooling unit 3 can flow into the water collecting tank; a fan 4, the washing chamber 1, the cooling unit 3 and the fan 4 are connected to form a circulating air duct; a first pump 5, the inlet of the first pump 5 is connected to the water collecting tank 2 or the water inlet port for connecting to a water source, and the outlet of the first pump 5 can be connected to the cooling unit 3.

[0084] When the washing machine dries the tableware and / or kitchenware placed in the washing chamber 1, hot and humid air is formed in the washing chamber 1. The humidity of the hot and humid air is relatively high. At this time, the fan 4 can be started to drive the hot and humid air into the cooling unit 3. At the same time, water can be supplied to the cooling unit 3 by the first pump 5. The cooling unit 3 can cool the hot and humid air flowing through the cooling unit 3. The water vapor in the hot and humid air will condense into liquid water. The liquid water and the water discharged from the cooling unit 3 can flow into the water collection tank 2 together. Through the above process, at least part of the water vapor in the hot and humid air can be removed. Afterwards, the relatively dry air will flow back to the washing chamber 1 to remove the moisture in the washing chamber 1 to form hot and humid air. This cycle continues until the tableware and / or kitchenware in the washing chamber 1 are dried. The water in the water collection tank 2 or the water input from the water source to the water inlet port of the washing machine will be input into the cooling unit 3 under the drive of the first pump 5 to be used by the cooling unit 3 to cool the hot and humid air flowing through the cooling unit 3. Through the above process, the tableware and / or kitchenware within the washing chamber 1 can be dried without exhausting the hot and humid gases generated by hot air drying into the room, while maintaining a simple structure for the entire washing machine. Furthermore, when the first pump 5 pumps water from the water collection tank 2 into the cooling unit 3, the water used to cool the hot and humid gases flowing through the cooling unit 3 can be recycled. Furthermore, the first pump 5 used to supply water to the spray device 12 of the washing machine can also be used to supply water to the cooling unit 3, thereby significantly reducing the equipment and operating costs of the washing machine.

[0085] In order to better understand the cleaning machine in this application, it will be further explained and illustrated below. Figure 1 As shown, the washing machine may include: a washing chamber 1, a cooling unit 3, a fan 4, and a first pump 5. The washing chamber 1 is used to place tableware and / or kitchen utensils for washing and drying the tableware and / or kitchen utensils. A water collection tank 2 is provided at the bottom of the washing chamber 1, and the water collection tank 2 is used to collect water sprayed onto the tableware and / or kitchen utensils during washing. In addition, the water collection tank 2 can also be used to collect water discharged by the cooling unit 3. In addition, the water collection tank 2 can also collect liquid water condensed from water vapor in the gas when the cooling unit 3 cools the gas flowing through it.

[0086] The cooling unit 3 is used to cool the gas flowing through, for example, it can cool the hot and humid gas flowing through, so that the water vapor in the hot and humid gas condenses into liquid water, thereby reducing the moisture in the gas.

[0087] like Figure 1As shown, the inlet of the first pump 5 can be connected to the water collecting tank 2 and / or the water inlet port for connecting to a water source, and the outlet of the first pump 5 can be connected to the cooling unit 3. The first pump 5 is used to drive the water in the water collecting tank 2 and / or the water input from the water inlet port for connecting to a water source to flow into the cooling unit 3. The cooling unit 3 uses this part of water to cool the gas flowing through. In order to prevent the water in the cooling unit 3 from overheating and reducing the cooling effect, the cooling unit 3 can continuously input and discharge water, and the discharged water can flow into the water collecting tank 2. In the above manner, this part of the water in the water collecting tank 2 can be continuously recycled, thereby achieving the purpose of saving water, which greatly reduces the cost of using the cleaning machine.

[0088] The cooling unit 3 can have many different embodiments. In one embodiment, Figure 1 As shown, the cooling unit 3 may include: a cooling channel 31, and a spray unit 32 for spraying water into the gas flowing through the cooling channel 31, for cooling the gas flowing therethrough. The spray unit may adopt different forms of structures such as a nozzle, a nozzle, a small hole structure, etc. The water sprayed by the spray unit 32 can flow into the water collecting tank 2. Here, the water sprayed by the spray unit 32 can finally flow into the water collecting tank 2, and may not flow directly into the water collecting tank 2. The water collected in the water collecting tank 2 can then be sprayed out to the cooling channel 31 through the first pump 5 and the spray unit 32. The sprayed water will flow into the water collecting tank 2 again. In this way, this part of the water can be continuously recycled, thereby achieving the purpose of saving water, which greatly reduces the use cost of the cleaning machine. The first pump 5 can be used to drive the water in the water collecting tank 2 to flow into the spray unit 32 and then be sprayed into the cooling channel 31. The first pump 5 can also first drive the water input from the water inlet port for connecting to the water source to flow into the spray unit 32 and then be sprayed into the cooling channel 31. The sprayed water will flow into the water collecting tank 2 again. After that, the first pump 5 can drive the water in the water collecting tank 2 to flow into the spray unit 32.

[0089] The washing chamber 1, the cooling channel 31, and the fan 4 are connected to form a circulating air duct. Under the action of the fan 4, it can drive the air in the washing chamber 1 to flow into the cooling channel 31, and then flow back into the washing chamber 1, and so on. When the gas flowing through the cooling channel 31 is hot and humid gas, that is, gas with high humidity and high temperature, the spray unit 32 sprays water into the gas flowing through the cooling channel 31, which can cool the hot and humid gas. Due to the high humidity of the gas, at this time, some of the water vapor in the hot and humid gas will condense into liquid water. Some of the liquid water can flow into the water collection tank 2 together with the water sprayed by the spray unit 32. The remaining liquid water may be carried downstream by the gas in the form of mist or small droplets. Through the above process, at least part of the water vapor in the hot and humid gas can be removed. Generally speaking, the humidity of the gas after removing at least part of the water vapor in the hot and humid gas can be about 40% to 60%. The humidity of the hot and humid gas before entering the cooling channel 31 is generally at least 90%, and often close to 100%. Afterwards, the relatively dry air will flow back into the washing chamber 1 to remove the evaporated moisture from the tableware and / or kitchenware in the washing chamber 1, thereby forming humid hot air again. This cycle continues until the tableware and / or kitchenware in the washing chamber 1 are dried. Through the above process, the tableware and / or kitchenware in the washing chamber 1 can be dried without exhausting the humid hot air generated by hot air drying into the room.

[0090] In another embodiment, the cooling unit 3 may include a cooling channel 31 and a heat exchange unit arranged in the cooling channel 31. The heat exchange unit may adopt a structure such as a heat exchanger. The washing chamber 1, the cooling channel 31 and the fan 4 are connected to form a circulating air duct. The heat exchange unit is used to cool the gas flowing through. The outlet of the first pump 5 can be connected to the inlet of the heat exchange unit, and the water discharged from the outlet of the heat exchange unit can flow into the water collecting tank 2. The water collecting tank, the first pump, the heat exchange unit, and the water collecting unit can form a water circuit. The first pump 5 can continuously input water with a relatively low temperature into the heat exchange unit, so that the heat exchange unit can be used to cool the humid hot gas flowing through the cooling channel 31. Since the humidity in the original gas is relatively high, at this time, part of the water vapor in the humid hot gas will condense into liquid water on the outer surface of the heat exchange unit, and the liquid water falls and can finally flow into the water collecting tank 2.

[0091] In another embodiment, the cooling unit 3 may include a containing structure capable of containing water. The washing chamber 1, the containing structure, and the fan 4 are connected to form a circulating air duct. The gas flowing into the containing structure can be passed into the water in the containing structure to undergo heat exchange contact with the water for cooling, and then the gas is discharged from the water. The outlet of the first pump 5 can be connected to the containing structure to replenish water into the containing structure, for example, water with a relatively low temperature. The water discharged from the containing structure can flow into the water collecting tank 2, thereby discharging the water in the containing structure. The water collecting tank, the first pump, the containing structure, and the water collecting unit can form a water circuit. When the gas is hot and humid gas, the hot and humid gas will be passed into the water in the containing structure for heat exchange contact with the water, and the hot and humid gas will be cooled. The water vapor in the hot and humid gas will condense into liquid water, which will be absorbed by the water in the containing structure. The relatively dry gas will then flow back into the washing chamber 1. The gas flowing into the containing structure is dispersed as much as possible and passed into the water in the containing structure, thereby increasing the contact area with the water and further improving the heat exchange effect. For example, the gas can be introduced into the water in the containment structure through a tube inserted into the water in the containment structure, or it can be introduced into the water in the containment structure through an opening on the wall of the containment structure. Of course, other methods can also be used to introduce the gas into the water in the containment structure, and this is not limited to any method in this application.

[0092] As feasible, Figure 1 As shown, the washing machine includes a spray device 12 for spray cleaning the tableware and / or kitchen utensils in the washing chamber 1. The water inlet of the spray device 12 is communicable with the outlet of the first pump 5. The entire washing machine has a simple structure. The first pump 5, which is used to supply water to the spray device 12, is also used to supply water to the cooling unit 3, such as the spray unit 32, the heat exchange unit, or the containing structure. In this way, the first pump 5 can perform two major functions, greatly reducing the equipment cost of the washing machine.

[0093] In order to control whether the water output by the first pump 5 flows to the cooling unit 3 or the spraying device 12 when the first pump 5 is running, Figure 1As shown, the cleaning machine may include: a pipeline switching unit 13. The outlet of the first pump 5 is connected to the water inlet of the spray device 12 and the cooling unit 3 respectively through the pipeline switching unit 13. The pipeline switching unit 13 has a first working state and a second working state. In the first working state, the pipeline switching unit 13 makes the outlet of the first pump 5 connected to the cooling unit 3, and the outlet of the first pump 5 is disconnected from the water inlet of the spray device 12; in the second working state, the pipeline switching unit 13 makes the outlet of the first pump 5 disconnected from the cooling unit 3, and the outlet of the first pump 5 is connected to the water inlet of the spray device 12. The pipeline switching unit 13 can adopt a three-way switching valve or two on-off valves, and the specific form of the pipeline switching unit 13 is not limited here.

[0094] In one possible implementation, Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the pipeline switching unit in the embodiment of the present utility model. Figure 6 As shown, the pipeline switching unit 13 may include: a valve body 131, the valve body 131 has a valve body bottom wall 1311 and a valve body side wall 1312, the valve body bottom wall 1311 and the valve body side wall 1312 form an accommodating cavity, the valve body side wall 1312 or the valve body bottom wall 1311 has a liquid inlet 13121, a first liquid outlet 13122 and at least one second liquid outlet 13111; a water distribution member 132 is provided in the accommodating cavity, the water distribution member 132 has a water distribution member bottom wall 1311 21 and the side wall 1322 of the water distribution member, the bottom wall 1321 of the water distribution member or the side wall 1322 of the water distribution member has a communicating hole 13211 and a notch 13221; a sealing member 133 for sealing the accommodating chamber; a driving unit 134 for driving the water distribution member 132 to rotate, so that the liquid inlet 13121 is in a normally open state, the communicating hole 13211 can be aligned and connected with a second liquid outlet 13111, or the notch 13221 can be aligned and connected with the first liquid outlet 13122.

[0095] Furthermore, the valve body sidewall 1312 has a liquid inlet 13121 and a first liquid outlet 13122, and the valve body bottom wall 1311 has at least one second liquid outlet 13111. The water diverter bottom wall 1321 has a connecting hole 13211, and the water diverter sidewall has a notch 13221. The liquid inlet 13121 and the first liquid outlet 13122 are located at different heights on the valve body sidewall 1312, so that when the water diverter 132 rotates, the water diverter sidewall does not block the liquid inlet 13121. When there are multiple second liquid outlets 13111, the multiple second liquid outlets 13111 are arranged in a circumferential direction. Depending on the rotation angle of the water diverter 132, the connecting hole 13211 can be connected to one of the second liquid outlets 13111, so that the fluid input from the liquid inlet 13121 flows out from the second liquid outlet 13111. Depending on the rotation angle of the water diverter 132, the notch 13221 can be connected to the first liquid outlet 13122, allowing the fluid input from the liquid inlet 13121 to flow out of the first liquid outlet 13122. This allows the pipeline switching unit to direct the input fluid to the corresponding liquid outlet as needed, thus fulfilling the flow path switching function. For example, the first liquid outlet 13122 can be connected to the cooling unit 3, and the multiple second liquid outlets 13111 can be connected to different spray devices 12.

[0096] In order to realize that the washing machine dries the tableware and / or kitchen utensils placed in the washing chamber 1, Figure 2 FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of the structure of the cleaning machine in another feasible implementation manner in the embodiment of the present utility model, as shown in FIG. Figure 2 As shown, the washing machine includes: a heating unit 11, which is used to heat and dry the tableware and / or kitchen utensils in the washing chamber 1. The heating unit 11 can be installed in the washing chamber 1, or in the circulating air duct, or can be set at other locations in the washing machine, as long as the heat generated by it can enter the washing chamber 1 to dry the tableware and / or kitchen utensils in the washing chamber 1. Preferably, the heating unit 11 can be located on the circulating air duct between the cooling unit 3 and the washing chamber 1. After the cooling unit 3 cools the hot and humid gas, thereby removing at least part of the water vapor in the hot and humid gas, the heating unit 11 can heat the relatively dry gas, thereby forming relatively dry hot gas. Due to the heating, the humidity of the relatively dry hot gas can be reduced to about 10% to 20%. This part of the relatively dry hot gas then flows into the washing chamber 1, which can better achieve the drying of the tableware and / or kitchen utensils.

[0097] When the washing machine dries the tableware and / or kitchen utensils placed in the washing chamber 1, the heating unit 11 is turned on for heating, and the fan 4 drives the gas in the washing chamber 1 to circulate through the circulating air duct. When the humidity of the gas flowing into the cooling unit 3 is low, the cooling unit 3 may be in a non-operating state. For example, the spray unit 32 may not spray water into the gas flowing through the cooling channel 31, or may not supply water to the heat exchange unit, or may not pass the gas flowing into the cooling unit 3 into the water in the containing structure, but directly let it flow out. In this case, the effect of removing water vapor is poor. Therefore, if Figure 2 As shown, the cleaning machine may include: a humidity detection unit 6 for detecting the humidity of the gas flowing into the cooling unit 3. The humidity detection unit 6 can generally be arranged on the circulating air duct between the inlet of the cooling unit 3 and the washing chamber 1. When the humidity of the gas flowing into the cooling unit 3 detected by the humidity detection unit 6 is higher than the first preset value, the cooling unit 3 is in operation, that is, the spray unit 32 sprays water into the gas flowing through the cooling channel 31, or supplies water to the heat exchange unit. The first preset value can be set as needed, and generally the setting value of the first preset value is greater than or equal to 85%. Of course, in other feasible embodiments, when the cleaning machine enters the drying mode, the cooling unit 3 is in operation. Afterwards, it can be determined based on the humidity detection unit 6 whether the cooling unit 3 needs to continue to run.

[0098] like Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the cleaning machine may include a water collection unit 7 for collecting liquid water generated when gas flows through the cooling channel 31 and water sprayed by the spray unit 32, or for collecting liquid water generated on the surface of the heat exchange unit when gas flows through the cooling channel 31 and / or water discharged from the outlet of the heat exchange unit. The water collected in the water collection unit 7 can then flow into the water collection tank 2. In one feasible embodiment, the water collection unit 7 can be connected to the washing chamber 1. In this case, the water collected in the water collection unit 7 first flows into the washing chamber 1, and then the water in the washing chamber 1 flows into the lowest water collection tank 2. In another feasible embodiment, the water collection unit 7 can be connected to the water collection tank 2. In this case, the water collected in the water collection unit 7 flows directly into the water collection tank 2. The water collection tank 2, the first pump 5, the cooling unit 3 (the spray unit 32, the heat exchange unit or the containment structure), and the water collection unit 7 can form a water circuit, and the water can be repeatedly recycled in this water circuit.

[0099] Further, such as Figure 2 As shown, the water collecting unit 7 can be connected to the washing chamber 1 or the water collecting tank 2 through the first flow channel 8. In order to control whether the water in the water collecting unit 7 is discharged or whether the collected water is stored in the water collecting unit 7, a switch valve 9 can be provided on the first flow channel 8.

[0100] As feasible, Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the cooling channel 31 tends to extend vertically, with the inlet of the cooling channel 31 located at the top and the outlet of the cooling channel 31 located at the bottom. When the washing machine dries tableware and / or kitchenware placed in the washing chamber 1, the hot and humid gas formed in the washing chamber 1 flows into the upper portion of the cooling channel 31, passes through the spray unit 32 for water spraying, or passes through the heat exchange unit, and then flows out of the lower portion of the cooling channel 31. The liquid water condensed from the water sprayed by the spray unit 32 and the water vapor in the hot and humid gas will also flow downward due to the downward flow of the gas and its own gravity, and enter the water collection unit 7, separating from the gas, thereby improving the separation effect of the gas and liquid water. Alternatively, the liquid water condensed from the water vapor in the hot and humid gas on the outer surface of the heat exchange unit will also flow downward due to the downward flow of the gas and its own gravity, and enter the water collection unit 7, separating from the gas, thereby improving the separation effect of the gas and liquid water. In order to facilitate the water collecting unit 7 to collect liquid water generated when the gas flows through the cooling channel 31 and water sprayed by the spray unit 32 , the water collecting unit 7 may be located below the cooling channel 31 .

[0101] As feasible, Figure 2 As shown, the cleaning machine may include: a demisting unit 10 for removing water mist from the gas, and the demisting unit 10 is located between the cooling unit 3 (for example, the outlet of the cooling channel 31, the outlet of the containing structure) and the washing chamber 1. Since the spray unit 32 sprays water on the hot and humid gas flowing through the cooling channel 31 to cool the hot and humid gas, the water vapor in the hot and humid gas will condense into liquid water. Part of the liquid water can flow into the water collecting tank 2 together with the water sprayed by the spray unit 32, and the rest of the liquid water may be carried by the gas in the form of water mist or small droplets and flow downstream. In order to minimize the amount of water mist or small droplets carried by the gas into the washing chamber 1 and affect the drying effect of the tableware and / or kitchen utensils in the washing chamber 1, it is necessary to use the demisting unit 10 to capture and remove liquid water such as water mist or small droplets from the gas. Alternatively, the water vapor in the humid hot gas flowing through the heat exchange unit in the cooling channel 31 or the water in the containing structure will condense into liquid water. Part of the liquid water will flow into the water collection tank 2 or be directly absorbed by the water in the containing structure. However, part of the liquid water may be carried by the gas into the washing chamber 1 in the form of water mist or small droplets, affecting the drying effect of the tableware and / or kitchen utensils in the washing chamber 1. It is necessary to use the demisting unit 10 to capture and remove liquid water such as water mist or small droplets in the gas.

[0102] The demisting unit 10 can have a variety of feasible embodiments. In a feasible embodiment, as Figure 2As shown, the demisting unit 10 may include: a plurality of stacked baffles 101, with gaps between adjacent baffles 101 to form a demisting channel 102, and the two ends of the demisting channel 102 can be connected to the outlet of the cooling channel 31 and the washing chamber 1 respectively. When the gas carrying water mist or small droplets flows through the demisting channel 102, the water mist or small droplets will come into contact with the baffle 101, thereby being adsorbed by the baffle 101, and then become large droplets on the baffle 101 and flow downward. Furthermore, the baffle 101 can be made of metal material, which can further enhance the effect of removing water mist or small droplets in the gas. As a feasible method, the baffle 101 can have a tendency to extend in the vertical direction. At this time, the water collecting unit 7 is located below the baffle 101 so as to collect the droplets formed on the baffle 101 at the same time.

[0103] In another feasible embodiment, the demisting unit 10 may include: at least one demisting member having a mesh structure, the mesh structure forming a demisting channel 102, and the two ends of the demisting channel 102 can be respectively connected to the outlet of the cooling channel 31 and the washing chamber 1. In another feasible embodiment, the demisting unit 10 may include: a plurality of staggered columnar members, the demisting channel 102 is formed between the columnar members, and the two ends of the demisting channel 102 can be respectively connected to the outlet of the cooling channel 31 and the washing chamber 1. In another feasible embodiment, the demisting unit 10 includes: a plurality of swirl blades arranged circumferentially, the demisting channel 102 is formed between the swirl blades, and the two ends of the demisting channel 102 can be respectively connected to the outlet of the cooling channel 31 and the washing chamber 1. The above-mentioned various methods can all capture water mist or small droplets carried in the gas. The water collection unit 7 can be located below the demisting member, columnar member or swirl blade to facilitate the collection of droplets formed on the mesh structure, columnar member or swirl blade.

[0104] In a specific embodiment, Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the cleaning machine may include: a shell 20 with an air duct 201 formed therein, the shell 20 having an air inlet 202 and an air outlet 203 connected to the air duct 201. The cooling channel 31 includes at least a portion of the air duct 201. The spray unit 32 is mounted on the shell 20 so as to spray water into the cooling channel 31; alternatively, the heat exchange unit may be directly disposed in the cooling channel 31. The bottom of the shell 20 may directly form a water collecting unit 7. When the cleaning machine has a demisting unit 10 for removing water mist from the gas, it is feasible that the demisting unit 10 may be located in a portion of the air duct 201 and downstream of the cooling channel 31. When the cooling unit includes a containing structure capable of containing water, the bottom of the shell 20 may directly form a water collecting unit 7, and the containing structure may include the water collecting unit 7.

[0105] As feasible, Figure 2As shown, the housing 20 has a partition 204 extending in a vertical direction to form a U-shaped air duct 201 within the housing 20. The U-shaped air duct 201 may include a first vertical section 2011 and a second vertical section 2012. The cooling channel 31 includes at least a portion of the first vertical section 2011, and the demisting unit 10 is located in the second vertical section 2012. As a feasible option, the air inlet 202 may be located at the upper portion of the first vertical section 2011, and the air outlet 203 may be located at the upper portion of the second vertical section 2012. The bottom of the U-shaped air duct 201 forms the water collection unit 7.

[0106] In order to discharge the water in the water collecting tank 2, the water can be the water used by the cooling unit 3 to cool the gas flowing through it, or the water used by the spraying device 12 to wash the tableware and / or kitchen utensils, such as Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the cleaning machine may include: a drainage line 14 having a second pump 15, one end of the drainage line 14 is connected to the water collecting tank 2. When the water in the water collecting tank 2 needs to be drained, the second pump 15 can be turned on.

[0107] As feasible, Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the cleaning machine may include a water inlet pipe 16, one end of which is connected to the inlet of the first pump 5 or the water collection tank 2, and the other end of which is connected to a water source. Water input from the water source through the water inlet pipe 16 can be directly input to the inlet of the first pump 5 for use in the cooling unit 3 or the spray device 12, or it can be input to the water collection tank 2. When the water is used for the cooling unit 3 or the spray device 12, the first pump 5 can be used to pump the water out of the water collection tank 2 for use.

[0108] As feasible, Figure 2 As shown, the washing machine may have an air inlet 17, an air outlet 18, and an air duct control unit 19. The air duct control unit 19 can control the connection and disconnection between the air inlet 17 and the washing chamber 1, and the connection and disconnection between the air outlet 18 and the washing chamber 1. When the air inlet 17 is connected to the washing chamber 1 and the air outlet 18 is connected to the washing chamber 1, the fan 4 can cause the air flowing into the air inlet 17 to flow into the washing chamber 1, and the air in the washing chamber 1 to be discharged from the air outlet 18. The air duct control unit 19 can be installed on the circulating air duct or on a branch air duct connected to the circulating air duct.

[0109] Under the above structure, the air duct control unit 19 can have a first position and a second position. In the first position, the air inlet 17 is disconnected from the washing chamber 1, and the air outlet 18 is disconnected from the washing chamber 1. At this time, when the fan 4 is in operation, it drives the air in the circulating air duct to circulate. In the second position, the air inlet 17 is connected to the washing chamber 1 through a portion of the circulating air duct, and the air outlet 18 is connected to the washing chamber 1 through a portion of the circulating air duct. The connection between the air inlet 17 and the circulating air duct and the connection between the air outlet 18 and the circulating air duct are disconnected. At this time, when the fan 4 is in operation, it drives the air flowing into the air inlet 17 through the portion of the circulating air duct into the washing chamber 1, and the air in the washing chamber 1 is discharged from the air outlet 18 through the portion of the circulating air duct. This method can achieve the replacement of the air in the washing chamber 1 with the outside air, thereby ensuring that the tableware and / or kitchenware in the washing chamber 1 are always exposed to high-quality air, avoiding problems such as odor or bacterial growth caused by long-term air replacement in the washing chamber 1.

[0110] In a specific embodiment, Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the air duct control unit in an embodiment of the present invention when it is closed in one embodiment. Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the air duct control unit in an embodiment of the present invention when it is turned on in one embodiment. Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, the air duct control unit 19 may include: an air duct switching valve 191 installed at the opening of the side wall of the circulating air duct. The air duct switching valve 191 includes a switching member 1911 that can rotate around a rotating shaft 1912, and the opening includes an air inlet 17 located on one side of the rotating shaft 1912 and an air outlet 18 located on the other side of the rotating shaft 1912. When the switching member 1911 is in the first position, the switching member 1911 closes the opening; when the switching member 1911 is in the second position, the switching member 1911 cuts off the connection between the air inlet 17 and part of the circulating air duct and the connection between the air outlet 18 and part of the circulating air duct, and the opening is open. Under the above structure, only one air duct switching valve 191 is required to control the connection and disconnection between the air inlet 17 and the washing chamber 1, and the connection and disconnection between the air outlet 18 and the washing chamber 1, which simplifies the number of components.

[0111] In another specific embodiment, Figure 5 FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of an air duct control unit in another embodiment of the present utility model, as shown in FIG. Figure 5As shown, the air duct control unit 19 may include a first on-off valve 192 for controlling the connection between the air inlet 17 and the washing chamber 1, and a second on-off valve 193 for controlling the connection between the air outlet 18 and the washing chamber 1. The inlet of the fan 4 can communicate with the air inlet 17, and the outlet of the fan 4 can communicate with the air outlet 18. The fan 4 is located on the line from the air inlet 17 through the washing chamber 1 to the air outlet 18. In this embodiment, the connection between the air inlet 17 and the washing chamber 1 and the connection between the air outlet 18 and the washing chamber 1 can be controlled independently.

[0112] In the above several implementation modes, as feasible, Figure 2 and Figure 5 As shown, the heating unit 11 can be located in the circulating air duct between the cooling unit 3 and the washing chamber 1. The heating unit 11 is located between the air inlet 17 and the washing chamber 1, so that the air flowing into the air inlet 17 can pass through the heating unit 11 and then flow into the washing chamber 1. The heating unit 11 can heat the air flowing into the air inlet 17, and then the dry hot air is input into the washing chamber 1 to ensure the quality of the input air.

[0113] The washing machine may have a drying mode, which is used to dry the tableware and / or kitchenware in the washing chamber 1. The drying mode may have a first sub-mode, in which the fan 4 is turned on, the heating unit 11 is turned on, and the first pump 5 is in operation. Generally, when the washing machine has just finished washing the tableware and / or kitchenware and enters the drying mode, due to the large amount of residual water on the tableware and / or kitchenware, it generally enters the first sub-mode first. A large amount of hot and humid air is generated in the washing chamber 1. Therefore, the first pump 5 needs to be in operation to enable the cooling unit 3 to cool the hot and humid air, thereby removing at least some of the water vapor in the hot and humid air and ultimately accelerating the drying speed of the tableware and / or kitchenware in the washing chamber 1. The drying mode has a second sub-mode, in which the fan 4 is turned on, the heating unit 11 is turned on, and the first pump 5 is turned off. When there is little or no water remaining on the tableware and / or kitchen utensils, a large amount of hot and humid gas will no longer be formed in the washing chamber 1. At this time, the first pump 5 can stop running, and the cooling unit 3 does not need to cool the hot and humid gas flowing through it. The fan 4 only needs to continue to run until the tableware and / or kitchen utensils in the washing chamber 1 are completely dried.

[0114] Alternatively, the cleaning machine may include a control unit electrically connected to the fan 4 and the humidity detection unit 6. The control unit is configured to control the speed of the fan 4 based on the humidity of the gas flowing into the cooling unit 3 as detected by the humidity detection unit 6. Furthermore, when the humidity of the gas flowing into the cooling unit 3 as detected by the humidity detection unit 6 is lower than a second preset value, the speed of the fan 4 may be increased, and the cooling unit 3 may be shut down. For example, the cooling unit 3 may be shut down first, and then the speed of the fan 4 may be increased. In other words, the cleaning machine may transition from the first sub-mode of the drying mode to the second sub-mode of the drying mode.

[0115] This application also proposes a control method for a cleaning machine, which can be applied to the above-mentioned cleaning machine as well as other cleaning machines. The control method for a cleaning machine may include the following steps:

[0116] After the washing machine enters the drying mode, it enters the first sub-mode of the drying mode. At this time, the heating unit 11 is turned on to heat and dry the tableware and / or kitchenware in the washing chamber 1. Because the washing machine washes the tableware and / or kitchenware in the washing chamber 1 before entering the drying mode, the outlet of the first pump 5 is connected to the spray device 12. After washing, the sewage in the water collection tank 2 will be completely discharged through the drainage line 14. Therefore, in the first sub-mode of the drying mode, the second pump 15 is first turned off, and it is necessary to control the water inlet valve on the water inlet pipe 16 to input water into the washing chamber 1 or the water collection tank 2 or supply water to the first pump 5 through the water inlet pipe 16. The pipeline switching unit 13 is controlled to connect the outlet of the first pump 5 to the cooling unit 3 and disconnect the outlet of the first pump 5 from the spray device 12. The fan 4 and the first pump 5 are turned on, and the heating unit 11 is turned on.

[0117] In this step, the water inlet valve on the water inlet pipe 16 can be controlled to input a predetermined amount of water into the washing chamber 1 or the water collection tank 2. As a feasible method, when the cooling unit 3 includes a spray unit 32, the predetermined amount of water can range from 0.5L to 5L. Since the water sprayed by the spray unit 32 is recycled, the predetermined amount of water can fully meet the usage requirements of the spray unit 32.

[0118] When the washing machine enters the drying mode and then the first sub-mode of the drying mode, the on-off valve 9 is opened. In this manner, the water collection tank 2, the first pump 5, the cooling unit 3 (the spray unit 32, the heat exchange unit or the containment structure), and the water collection unit 7 form a water circuit, in which water is repeatedly recycled, thereby achieving the purpose of water conservation.

[0119] When the preset conditions are met after the first pump 5 is turned on, the second sub-mode of the drying mode is entered. At this time, the first pump 5 is turned off, and the heating unit 11 and the fan 4 are kept in operation.

[0120] In this step, the preset conditions may include at least one of the following: the preset time is reached, the humidity value of the gas entering the cooling unit 3 is lower than the second preset value, the temperature of the water in the water circuit no longer rises, etc. Among them, the water collecting tank 2, the first pump 5, the cooling unit 3 (the spray unit 32, the heat exchange unit or the containing structure), and the water collecting unit 7 can form a water circuit. When the preset conditions are met after the first pump 5 is turned on, when there is little or no water remaining on the tableware and / or kitchen utensils, a large amount of hot and humid gas will no longer be formed in the washing chamber 1. At this time, the first pump 5 can no longer run, and the cooling unit 3 does not need to cool the hot and humid gas flowing through. The fan 4 and the heating unit 11 only need to continue to run until the tableware and / or kitchen utensils in the washing chamber 1 are completely dried.

[0121] As a feasible method, after entering the second sub-mode of the drying mode, the rotation speed of the fan 4 can be increased, thereby increasing the flow rate of the air in the circulating air duct, so as to further improve the drying speed of the tableware and / or kitchen utensils in the washing chamber 1.

[0122] In one feasible embodiment, after the first sub-mode of the drying mode ends, the second pump on the drainage line can be turned on to drain the water in the water collection tank. This step can be performed after the first sub-mode of the drying mode ends and before the second sub-mode of the drying mode begins, thereby draining the water used by the cooling unit 3, so that the entire washing chamber 1 can be in a dry state after the second sub-mode of the drying mode, preventing the water in the water collection tank 2 from affecting the dishes and / or kitchenware being dried in the washing chamber 1. After the first sub-mode of the drying mode ends, the second sub-mode of the drying mode is entered. At the end of or after the end of the second sub-mode of the drying mode, the second pump on the drainage line is turned on again to drain the water in the water collection tank. At this time, the discharged water is the small amount of water formed in the water collection tank during the drying process of the dishes and / or kitchenware in the washing chamber 1.

[0123] In another feasible embodiment, after the first sub-mode of the drying mode, the on-off valve 9 can be closed, and the water in the water collection tank 2 can be transferred to the water collection unit 7 for storage via the first pump 5. This method eliminates the water in the water collection tank 2, allowing the entire washing chamber 1 to remain dry after the second sub-mode of the drying mode. The water stored in the water collection unit 7 can be released back into the water collection tank 2 by opening the on-off valve 9 the next time the washing machine washes dishes and / or kitchenware. This water can then be reused to pre-wash the dishes and / or kitchenware, thereby conserving water.

[0124] As a feasible option, the washing machine may include a storage mode. In storage mode, the air duct control unit 19 and the fan 4 are controlled to allow external air to flow into the washing chamber 1 through the air inlet 17, and the air in the washing chamber 1 is discharged from the air outlet 18. After the washing machine completes the drying mode, it can execute the storage mode. The execution of the storage mode can be separated from the execution of the drying mode by a certain time, and then the storage mode can be executed again at a certain interval. Alternatively, after the execution of the drying mode, the storage mode can be executed at a preset time point.

[0125] In storage mode, in one embodiment, the air duct control unit 19 can be switched to a second position. In the second position, the air inlet 17 is connected to the washing chamber 1 through a portion of the circulating air duct, and the air outlet 18 is connected to the washing chamber 1 through a portion of the circulating air duct. The connection between the air inlet 17 and the circulating air duct and the connection between the air outlet 18 and the circulating air duct are disconnected. In storage mode, in another embodiment, the first on-off valve 192 is controlled to open to connect the air inlet 17 to the washing chamber 1, and the second on-off valve 193 is controlled to open to connect the air outlet 18 to the washing chamber 1.

[0126] All articles and references disclosed, including patent applications and publications, are incorporated herein by reference for all purposes. The term "essentially consisting of..." describing a combination should include the identified elements, ingredients, parts or steps and other elements, ingredients, parts or steps that do not substantially affect the basic novel features of the combination. The use of the terms "comprising" or "including" to describe the combination of elements, ingredients, parts or steps herein also contemplates an embodiment that is essentially composed of these elements, ingredients, parts or steps. By using the term "may", it is intended to illustrate that any attribute described that "may" include is optional. Multiple elements, ingredients, parts or steps can be provided by a single integrated element, ingredient, part or step. Alternatively, a single integrated element, ingredient, part or step can be divided into separate multiple elements, ingredients, parts or steps. The disclosure "one" or "an" used to describe an element, ingredient, part or step is not intended to exclude other elements, ingredients, parts or steps.

[0127] Each embodiment in this specification is described in a progressive manner, and each embodiment focuses on the differences from other embodiments. The same or similar parts between the embodiments can be referred to in detail. The above embodiments are only for illustrating the technical concept and features of the utility model. Their purpose is to enable people familiar with this technology to understand the content of the utility model and implement it accordingly. They are not intended to limit the scope of protection of the utility model. Any equivalent changes or modifications made according to the spirit of the utility model should be included in the scope of protection of the utility model.

Claims

1. A cleaning machine, characterized in that: The cleaning machine comprises: A washing chamber, used for placing tableware and / or kitchen utensils, wherein a water collecting tank is provided at the bottom of the washing chamber; A cooling unit for cooling the gas flowing through the cooling unit, wherein the water discharged from the cooling unit can flow into the water collecting tank; A fan, wherein the washing chamber, the cooling unit and the fan are connected to form a circulating air duct; A first pump, wherein the inlet of the first pump is communicated with the water collecting tank or the water inlet port for connecting to a water source, and the outlet of the first pump can be communicated with the cooling unit.

2. The cleaning machine according to claim 1, characterized in that The cleaning machine comprises: A humidity detection unit is provided for detecting the humidity of the gas flowing into the cooling unit.

3. The cleaning machine according to claim 2, characterized in that When the humidity of the gas flowing into the cooling unit detected by the humidity detection unit is higher than a first preset value or the cleaning machine enters a drying mode, the cooling unit is in an operating state.

4. The cleaning machine according to claim 1, characterized in that The cooling unit includes a cooling flow channel and a spray unit that sprays water into the gas flowing through the cooling flow channel. The washing chamber, the cooling flow channel and the fan are connected to form the circulating air duct; the spray unit is used to cool the gas flowing through, and the water sprayed by the spray unit can be discharged into the water collecting tank. The outlet of the first pump can be connected to the spray unit.

5. The cleaning machine according to claim 1, characterized in that The cooling unit includes a cooling channel and a heat exchange unit arranged in the cooling channel. The washing chamber, the cooling channel and the fan are connected to form the circulating air duct; the heat exchange unit is used to cool the gas flowing through; the outlet of the first pump can be connected to the inlet of the heat exchange unit, and the water discharged from the outlet of the heat exchange unit can flow into the water collection tank.

6. The cleaning machine according to claim 1, characterized in that The cooling unit includes a containing structure capable of containing water, the washing chamber, the fan and the containing structure are connected to form the circulating air duct, the gas flowing into the containing structure can be passed into the water in the containing structure to exchange heat with the water for cooling, and then the gas is discharged from the water; the outlet of the first pump can be connected to the containing structure, and the water discharged from the containing structure can flow into the water collection tank.

7. The cleaning machine according to claim 4, characterized in that The cleaning machine comprises: The water collecting unit is used to collect the liquid water generated when the gas flows through the cooling channel and the water sprayed by the spraying unit.

8. The cleaning machine according to claim 5, characterized in that The cleaning machine comprises: The water collecting unit is used to collect liquid water generated on the surface of the heat exchange unit when the gas flows through the cooling channel and / or water discharged from the outlet of the heat exchange unit.

9. The cleaning machine according to claim 7 or 8, characterized in that: The cooling channel has a tendency to extend in a vertical direction, the inlet of the cooling channel is located at the upper part, and the outlet of the cooling channel is located at the lower part.

10. The cleaning machine according to claim 9, characterized in that The water collecting unit is located below the cooling channel.

11. The cleaning machine according to claim 7 or 8, characterized in that: The water collecting unit can be communicated with the washing chamber or the water collecting tank.

12. The cleaning machine according to claim 11, characterized in that The water collecting unit is communicated with the washing chamber or the water collecting tank through a first flow channel, and a switch valve is provided on the first flow channel.

13. The cleaning machine according to claim 11, characterized in that When the cooling unit includes a spray unit, the water collecting tank, the first pump, the spray unit, and the water collecting unit can form a water circuit.

14. The cleaning machine according to claim 4 or 5, characterized in that: The cleaning machine comprises a demisting unit for removing water mist from the gas, and the demisting unit is located between the outlet of the cooling flow channel and the washing chamber.

15. The cleaning machine according to claim 14, characterized in that The demisting unit comprises: a plurality of stacked baffles, with gaps between adjacent baffles to form a demisting flow channel, and the demisting flow channel can be communicated with the outlet of the cooling flow channel and the washing chamber respectively.

16. The cleaning machine according to claim 15, characterized in that The cleaning machine comprises: The water collecting unit is configured such that the baffle plate tends to extend in a vertical direction and is located below the baffle plate to collect liquid droplets formed on the baffle plate.

17. The cleaning machine according to claim 14, characterized in that The demisting unit comprises: at least one demisting element having a mesh structure, wherein the mesh structure forms a demisting flow channel, and the demisting flow channel can be communicated with the outlet of the cooling flow channel and the washing chamber respectively; or, The demisting unit comprises: a plurality of staggered columnar members, wherein demisting channels are formed between the columnar members, and the demisting channels are respectively connected to the outlet of the cooling channel and the washing chamber; or, The demisting unit includes: a plurality of swirl blades arranged around the circumference, a demisting flow channel is formed between the swirl blades, and the demisting flow channel can be communicated with the outlet of the cooling flow channel and the washing chamber respectively.

18. The cleaning machine according to claim 17, characterized in that The cleaning machine comprises: A water collecting unit is located below the demister, the columnar member, or the swirl blade to collect liquid droplets formed on the mesh structure, the columnar member, or the swirl blade.

19. The cleaning machine according to claim 1, characterized in that The cleaning machine comprises: The heating unit is used to heat and dry the tableware and / or kitchen utensils in the washing chamber.

20. The cleaning machine according to claim 19, characterized in that The heating unit is located on the circulation air duct between the cooling unit and the washing chamber.

21. The cleaning machine according to claim 1, characterized in that The cleaning machine comprises: a spraying device, the spraying device being used to spray the tableware and / or the kitchenware in the washing chamber; The water inlet of the spraying device can be communicated with the outlet of the first pump.

22. The cleaning machine according to claim 21, characterized in that The cleaning machine includes: a pipeline switching unit, through which the outlet of the first pump is connected to the water inlet of the spray device and the cooling unit respectively; the pipeline switching unit has a first working state and a second working state. In the first working state, the pipeline switching unit makes the outlet of the first pump connected to the cooling unit, and the outlet of the first pump is disconnected from the water inlet of the spray device; in the second working state, the pipeline switching unit makes the outlet of the first pump disconnected from the cooling unit, and the outlet of the first pump is connected to the water inlet of the spray device.

23. The cleaning machine according to claim 1, characterized in that The cleaning machine includes a drainage pipeline having a second pump, and one end of the drainage pipeline is communicated with the water collecting tank.

24. The cleaning machine according to claim 1, characterized in that The cleaning machine includes a water inlet pipeline, one end of which is connected to the inlet of the first pump or the water collecting tank, and the other end of which is connected to the water inlet port.

25. The cleaning machine according to claim 1, characterized in that The cleaning machine has an air inlet, an air outlet and an air duct control unit. The air duct control unit can control the connection and disconnection between the air inlet and the washing chamber, and the connection and disconnection between the air outlet and the washing chamber. Under the action of the fan, the air flowing into the air inlet can flow into the washing chamber, and the air in the washing chamber is discharged from the air outlet.

26. The cleaning machine according to claim 25, characterized in that The air duct control unit has a first position state and a second position state. In the first position state, the air inlet and the washing chamber are disconnected, and the air outlet and the washing chamber are disconnected. In the second position state, the air inlet is connected to the washing chamber through part of the circulating air duct, the air outlet is connected to the washing chamber through part of the circulating air duct, and the connecting part between the air inlet and the circulating air duct and the connecting part between the air outlet and the circulating air duct are disconnected.

27. The cleaning machine according to claim 26, characterized in that The air duct control unit includes: an air duct switching valve installed at the opening of the side wall of the circulating air duct, the air duct switching valve includes a switching member that can rotate around a rotating axis, the opening includes the air inlet located on one side of the rotating axis and the air outlet located on the other side of the rotating axis, when the switching member is in a first position state, the switching member closes the opening; when the switching member is in a second position state, the switching member cuts off the connection between the air inlet and a part of the circulating air duct and the connection between the air outlet and a part of the circulating air duct, and the opening is open.

28. The cleaning machine according to claim 25, characterized in that The air duct control unit includes a first opening and closing valve for controlling the connection between the air inlet and the washing chamber and a second opening and closing valve for controlling the connection between the air outlet and the washing chamber. The inlet of the fan can be connected to the air inlet, and the outlet of the fan can be connected to the air outlet. The fan is located on the line from the air inlet through the washing chamber to the air outlet.

29. A cleaning machine according to any one of claims 25 to 28, characterized in that The cleaning machine includes: a heating unit, which is located on the circulating air duct between the cooling unit and the washing chamber; the heating unit is located between the air inlet and the washing chamber, so that the air flowing into the air inlet can pass through the heating unit and then flow into the washing chamber.

30. The cleaning machine according to claim 19, characterized in that The washing machine has a drying mode, and the drying mode is used to dry the tableware and / or the kitchenware in the washing chamber; The drying mode has a first sub-mode of the drying mode. In the first sub-mode of the drying mode, the fan is in an on state, the heating unit is in an on state, and the first pump is in an operating state. The drying mode has a second drying mode sub-mode. In the second drying mode sub-mode, the fan is turned on, the heating unit is turned on, and the first pump is turned off.

31. The cleaning machine according to claim 2, characterized in that The cleaning machine comprises: a control unit, the control unit being electrically connected to the fan and the humidity detection unit; The control unit is used to control the rotation speed of the fan according to the humidity of the gas flowing into the cooling unit detected by the humidity detection unit.

32. The cleaning machine according to claim 31, characterized in that When the humidity of the gas flowing into the cooling unit detected by the humidity detection unit is lower than a second preset value, the rotation speed of the fan is controlled to increase and the cooling unit is closed.

33. The cleaning machine according to claim 4, characterized in that The cleaning machine comprises: a housing with an air duct formed therein, the housing having an air inlet and an air outlet communicated with the air duct; The cooling flow channel includes at least a portion of the air duct, and the spray unit is installed on the housing to spray water into the cooling flow channel.

34. The cleaning machine according to claim 5, characterized in that The cleaning machine comprises: a housing with an air duct formed therein, the housing having an air inlet and an air outlet communicated with the air duct; The cooling flow channel includes at least a portion of the air duct.

35. The cleaning machine according to claim 33 or 34, characterized in that The bottom of the interior of the housing forms a water collecting unit.

36. The cleaning machine according to claim 33 or 34, characterized in that The cleaning machine comprises: a demisting unit for removing water mist in the gas; the demisting unit is located in a part of the air duct and downstream of the cooling flow channel.

37. The cleaning machine according to claim 36, characterized in that The shell has a partition extending in a vertical direction to form a U-shaped air duct in the shell. The U-shaped air duct includes a first vertical section and a second vertical section. The cooling flow channel includes at least a portion of the first vertical section. The demisting unit is located in the second vertical section. The air inlet is located at the upper part of the first vertical section, and the air outlet is located at the upper part of the second vertical section. A water collection unit is formed at the bottom of the U-shaped air duct.

38. The cleaning machine according to claim 22, characterized in that The pipeline switching unit includes: A valve body, wherein the valve body has a valve body bottom wall and a valve body side wall, the valve body bottom wall and the valve body side wall form a receiving cavity, and the valve body side wall or the valve body bottom wall has a liquid inlet, a first liquid outlet and at least one second liquid outlet; A water distribution member is disposed in the accommodating cavity, wherein the water distribution member has a water distribution member bottom wall and a water distribution member side wall, and the water distribution member bottom wall or the side wall has a communicating hole and a notch; a sealing member for sealing the accommodating cavity; A driving unit is used to drive the water distribution member to rotate, so that the liquid inlet is in a normally open state, the communicating hole can be aligned and communicated with one of the second liquid outlets, or the notch can be aligned and communicated with the first liquid outlet.

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