Washing machine

Abstract

The embodiment of the utility model relates to the technical field of washing equipment, and provides a washing machine. The washing machine comprises a drainage assembly and a float switch. The drainage assembly comprises a drainage main pipe, a shunt pipe and a drainage control piece. The liquid inlet end of the drainage main pipe is located between the outer cylinder and the bottom wall and communicated with the interior of the outer cylinder, and the liquid outlet end of the drainage main pipe is located outside the outer cylinder. The shunt pipe is communicated with the main drainage pipe and located on the side, facing the top wall, of the main drainage pipe. The drainage control piece is located on the drainage main pipe and located on the side, close to the liquid outlet end, of the diversion pipe. The float switch is arranged in the shunt pipe and comprises a float and a switch mechanism electrically connected between the heating piece and the power source. The floater is lifted to a preset height to trigger the switch mechanism to be closed along with the increase of the liquid level in the shunt pipe, so that the heating piece is connected with the power supply. When the floater triggers the switch mechanism, liquid in the outer barrel at least submerges the outer surface of the heating piece, so that dry burning prevention protection is conducted on the heating piece when water enters the washing machine, and the dry burning risk of the heating piece is reduced.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of washing equipment technology, and in particular to a washing machine. Background Technology

[0002] Currently, some washing machines are equipped with heating elements. These elements heat the liquid inside the outer drum, which improves the washing effect and also disinfects and sterilizes the machine, reducing washing time.

[0003] When a washing machine is filling with water, if the water level in the outer drum is insufficient, the heating element may dry-burn. When this happens, the heating element heats up rapidly, potentially causing overheating and damage, and may also lead to electrical malfunctions. To prevent this, washing machines typically include a fusible resistor in the heating element's circuitry. This resistor melts, providing overheat protection against dry burning. However, in reality, the temperature distribution on the heating element's surface is uneven. Before the resistor melts, the localized temperature on the heating element's surface may far exceed the resistor's melting point, leaving the heating element still at risk of dry burning. Utility Model Content

[0004] This application provides a washing machine that can prevent the heating element from burning dry when the washing machine is filled with water, thereby improving the service life of the heating element and the safety of the washing machine.

[0005] This application provides a washing machine, which includes:

[0006] The chassis has a bottom wall and a top wall that are positioned opposite each other in the height direction;

[0007] Cylinder assembly, the cylinder assembly includes:

[0008] The outer cylinder is located inside the chassis;

[0009] The inner cylinder is rotatably located inside the outer cylinder; both the outer and inner cylinders are used to hold liquids.

[0010] A heating element, comprising a heating element disposed inside an outer cylinder; the heating element is used to be electrically connected to a power source to heat the liquid inside the outer cylinder;

[0011] Drainage components, the drainage components include:

[0012] Drain pipe, the drain pipe includes:

[0013] The main drain pipe has an inlet end and an outlet end. The inlet end is located between the outer cylinder and the bottom wall and communicates with the inside of the outer cylinder, while the outlet end is located outside the outer cylinder.

[0014] The diverter pipe has one end connected to the part of the drain main pipe between the inlet and outlet ends, and is located on the side of the drain main pipe facing the top wall, so that the liquid in the outer cylinder can enter the diverter pipe through the drain main pipe.

[0015] The drainage control component is located on the side of the main drainage pipe near the outlet end, and is used to control the connection between the outlet end and the inlet end.

[0016] A float switch is located inside the shunt pipe; the float switch includes:

[0017] A switching mechanism is used to electrically connect the heating element and the power source;

[0018] The float floats on the liquid surface of the distributor tube. As the liquid level in the distributor tube increases, the float is raised to a preset height to trigger the closing of the switching mechanism, so as to connect the heating element and the power supply. When the float triggers the switching mechanism, the liquid in the outer cylinder is at least above the outer surface of the heating element.

[0019] This embodiment of the application, through the arrangement of a drainage control component, a diversion pipe, and a main drainage pipe, ensures that when the drainage control component controls the liquid outlet and liquid inlet to be disconnected, the diversion pipe, the main drainage pipe, and the outer drum form a communicating vessel structure, so that when the washing machine is filled with water, the liquid levels in the diversion pipe and the outer drum are the same. The setting of triggering the closing of the switching mechanism by lifting the float to a preset height within the diversion pipe ensures that the heating circuit of the heating element is connected only when the switching mechanism is closed, and only then are the heating element and power supply connected, allowing the heating element to heat the liquid in the outer drum. Furthermore, by ensuring that the liquid in the outer drum at least covers the outer surface of the heating element when the float triggers the switching mechanism, the liquid level in the outer drum will at least cover all the outer surfaces of the heating element when the float is raised to a preset height and triggers the switching mechanism to close. This prevents the heating element from dry-burning due to excessively high local surface temperatures, thus providing anti-dry-burn protection for the heating element when the washing machine is filled with water. This reduces the risk of dry-burning of the heating element, thereby improving the lifespan of the heating element and the safety of the washing machine while fulfilling the function of heating the liquid in both the inner and outer drums.

[0020] In some embodiments, before the float is raised to a preset height, the diverter pipe and the float define a cavity for the float to float on the side of the float away from the main drain pipe.

[0021] The height of the cavity is greater than the height to which the float is lifted when the trigger switch mechanism is closed.

[0022] By limiting the height of the cavity, the height of the cavity can ensure that the float is raised to a preset height, thereby triggering the closing of the switching mechanism to connect the heating element and the power supply.

[0023] In some embodiments, the washing machine further includes a first limiting member located within the diversion pipe on the side of the float facing away from the main drain pipe.

[0024] When the float is raised to a preset height, the first limiting member is used to contact the float.

[0025] By having the first limiting component contact the float, the maximum height of the float's ascent can be limited to prevent the float from rising excessively and causing the heating circuit of the heating element to disconnect again. This ensures that the heating element and power supply remain connected during the subsequent continuous water intake process of the washing machine, allowing the heating element to continuously heat the liquid inside the outer drum.

[0026] In some embodiments, the first limiting member is located on the inner end face of the end of the diversion pipe opposite to the main drainage pipe, or the first limiting member is located on the circumferential sidewall of the switching mechanism.

[0027] By limiting the possible positions of the first limiting member, the possible positions of the first limiting member can be diversified, thereby increasing the diversity of the positions of the first limiting member.

[0028] In some embodiments, the washing machine further includes a second limiting member located within the diversion pipe on the side of the float facing the main drain pipe;

[0029] When the outer cylinder is not filled with liquid, the second limiting element contacts the float.

[0030] By having the second limiting member contact the float, the float can be confined within the diversion pipe to prevent it from detaching from the diversion pipe and entering the main drain pipe, thus affecting the triggering of the switching mechanism. This ensures that when the liquid level in the diversion pipe increases, the float can be raised to a preset height to trigger the switching mechanism and connect the heating element to the power supply.

[0031] In some embodiments, the second limiting member is located on the inner wall of the diversion pipe or the main drain pipe, or the second limiting member is located on the circumferential side wall of the switching mechanism.

[0032] By limiting the possible positions of the second limiting member, the possible positions of the first limiting member can be diversified, thereby increasing the diversity of the positions of the first limiting member.

[0033] In some embodiments, the outer cylinder has an opening end and a bottom end in the axial direction, the heating element is located between the outer cylinder and the inner cylinder, and the heating element is installed at the bottom end relative to the opening end;

[0034] The diverter is located on the side of the bottom of the cylinder away from the opening.

[0035] Because the drum opening faces the front of the casing and the drum bottom faces the back of the casing, when the diverter pipe is located on the side of the drum bottom facing away from the drum opening, it can be positioned between the side of the drum bottom facing the back of the casing and the casing. This arrangement of the diverter pipe does not occupy space inside the outer drum, thus avoiding any impact on the washing machine's single-cycle capacity. Furthermore, when the diverter pipe is located on the side of the drum bottom facing away from the drum opening, the switching mechanism can be placed closer to the heating element, facilitating electrical connection between the switching mechanism and the heating element.

[0036] In some embodiments, the switching mechanism further includes a switching element having two contact points that are not connected to each other, and a float located on the side of the two contact points facing the main drain pipe.

[0037] As the liquid level in the diversion tube increases, the float can move relative to the switching mechanism within the diversion tube and be lifted to a preset height, so that the float triggers the two contact points to switch from a non-conductive state to a conductive state.

[0038] In this way, when the float triggers the two contact points to switch from a non-conductive state to a conductive state, the switch can be closed, thereby connecting the heating element to the power supply, and the heating element can heat the liquid inside the outer cylinder.

[0039] In some embodiments, the float is movably sleeved on the circumferential outer wall of the switching mechanism, and the float has a magnetic element on the side closer to the switching mechanism.

[0040] When the liquid level in the shunt tube increases, the magnetic component can move closer to the switching component, so that the two contact points switch from a non-conductive state to a conductive state.

[0041] By incorporating a magnetic component, the float switch can close the switch when it moves relative to the switching mechanism, thereby connecting the heating element to the power supply.

[0042] In some embodiments, the drainage assembly further includes a one-way check valve, which is disposed in the main drainage pipe and located on the side of the branch pipe away from the drainage control component.

[0043] One-way check valves are used to allow liquid flowing out of the inlet to pass through and flow toward the outlet and the distributor.

[0044] By using a one-way check valve to allow the liquid flowing out of the inlet to pass through and flow toward the outlet and the diverter pipe, when the washing machine is filled with water, the liquid flowing out of the inlet from the outer drum can enter the diverter pipe through the drain main pipe, ensuring that the float can be raised to a preset height to trigger the switching mechanism.

[0045] Furthermore, based on the unidirectional flow characteristic of the one-way check valve, the liquid in the diversion pipe cannot flow back into the outer drum through the main drain pipe and the one-way check valve, thus maintaining the liquid level in the diversion pipe at a relatively stable state. This avoids fluctuations in the liquid level in the outer drum during the washing process, which could cause fluctuations in the float switch. This ensures that the float is in a relatively stable position relative to the switching mechanism in the diversion pipe, and also makes the connection status of the heating element and the power supply relatively stable. The heating element can stably heat the liquid in the outer drum, ensuring the washing effect. Attached Figure Description

[0046] 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 some embodiments of this application. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0047] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a washing machine from a first-view perspective, provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0048] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the interior of a washing machine from a second perspective, provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0049] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the installation of a drain pipe and drain control component inside a washing machine, as provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0050] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the installation of a drainage component and a float switch inside a washing machine, as provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0051] Figure 5 yes Figure 4 A schematic diagram of the liquid levels in the outer drum and drain pipe of a washing machine.

[0052] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the connection of a switching mechanism in the heating circuit of a heater according to an embodiment of this application;

[0053] Figure 7 yes Figure 5 A schematic diagram showing the increase in liquid level in the outer drum and diversion pipe of a washing machine.

[0054] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a float switch when the switching mechanism is not closed, according to an embodiment of this application.

[0055] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a float switch when the switching mechanism is closed, according to an embodiment of this application.

[0056] Figure 10 This application provides a one-way check valve in an embodiment of the present application. Figure 4 Installation diagram inside the washing machine.

[0057] Figure label:

[0058] 100 - Washing machine;

[0059] 10-Chassis; 101-Front Side; 1011-Clothing Inlet; 102-Rear Side; 103-Bottom Wall; 104-Top Wall;

[0060] 20-Gate body;

[0061] 30-outer cylinder; 31-cylinder mouth end; 32-cylinder bottom end;

[0062] 40 - Inner cylinder;

[0063] 50 - Heating element;

[0064] 60-Drainage assembly; 61-Drainage pipe; 611-Main drainage pipe; 6111-Inlet end; 6112-Outlet end; 612-Diverter pipe; 6121-Cavity; 62-Drainage control component; 63-One-way check valve;

[0065] 70-Float switch; 71-Switch mechanism; 711-Switch element; 7111-Contact point; 7112-Reed; 72-Float; 721-Magnetic element;

[0066] 80 - First limiting component;

[0067] 90 - Second limiting component;

[0068] 200-Power supply. Detailed Implementation

[0069] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of the embodiments of this application clearer, 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 some embodiments of this application, not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of this application, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this application.

[0070] This application provides a washing machine, which may include a top-loading washing machine, a front-loading washing machine, etc.

[0071] Figure 1 and Figure 2This is a simplified structure of the washing machine 100 from different perspectives, and does not constitute a limitation on the structure of the washing machine 100; it is merely for the purpose of facilitating the description of the structure of the washing machine 100. Figure 2 The internal structure of the washing machine 100 is shown. Figure 1 and Figure 2 The washing machine 100 mentioned is a front-loading washing machine. The following text combines... Figure 1 and Figure 2 Taking a drum washing machine as an example, the structure of washing machine 100 will be further explained.

[0072] See Figure 1 and Figure 2 The washing machine 100 may include a casing 10, which is the outer shell of the washing machine 100. For ease of description, see [link to documentation]. Figure 1 and Figure 2 The height of the chassis 10 is represented by the Z direction, the width of the chassis 10 is represented by the X direction, and the depth of the chassis 10 is represented by the Y direction.

[0073] See Figure 2 The two sides of the casing 10 along the depth direction of the washing machine 100 are designated as the front 101 and back 102 of the casing 10. The front 101 of the casing 10 has a clothes inlet 1011 for loading clothes. The two sides of the casing 10 along the width direction of the washing machine 100 can be considered as the left and right side walls of the casing 10. The casing 10 has a bottom wall 103 and a top wall 104 disposed opposite each other in the height direction. The side of the bottom wall 103 facing away from the top wall 104 can be considered as the bottom surface of the casing 10, and the side of the top wall 104 facing away from the bottom wall 103 can be considered as the top surface of the casing 10.

[0074] See Figure 1 In addition to the casing 10, the washing machine 100 also includes a door 20. The door 20 is rotatably mounted on the front 101 of the casing 10, allowing the clothes inlet 1011 to be opened or closed when the door 20 rotates relative to the casing 10. When the door 20 is open, it facilitates the user infeeding clothes into the clothes inlet 1011. When the door 20 is closed, it covers the clothes inlet 1011, enhancing the safety of the washing machine 100 during operation.

[0075] See Figure 2 The washing machine 100 also includes a drum assembly, which is disposed inside the casing 10. The drum assembly includes an outer drum 30. The outer drum 30 is disposed inside the casing 10. The opening of the outer drum 30 faces the clothes loading port 1011.

[0076] The drum assembly also includes an inner drum 40. The inner drum 40 is rotatably disposed within the outer drum 30, and both the outer drum 30 and the inner drum 40 are used to hold liquid. The liquid mentioned in this application can be water or a mixture of water and any laundry detergent. For example, the laundry detergent can be a detergent, fabric softener, etc. When the inner drum 40 is rotatably disposed within the outer drum 30, the opening of the inner drum 40 can also face the clothes inlet 1011. The inner drum 40 has a washing chamber. During the washing process of the washing machine 100, an external water source can inject liquid (such as water) into the outer drum 30 and the inner drum 40 so that the washing chambers of the outer drum 30 and the inner drum 40 are filled with liquid. Furthermore, during the washing process of the washing machine 100, the inner drum 40 can also rotate relative to the outer drum 30 so that the clothes in the washing chamber can fully contact the liquid contained in the washing chamber to clean the clothes.

[0077] The inner cylinder 40 has multiple through holes on its wall, which connect the washing chamber and the cavity 6121 inside the outer cylinder 30, so that the liquid in the washing chamber can enter the outer cylinder 30 through the through holes.

[0078] The washing machine 100 also includes a liquid inlet valve, which is typically installed on the back 102 of the casing 10. The liquid inlet valve is used to inject liquid (such as water) into the inner drum 40. The liquid in the inner drum 40 enters the outer drum 30 through a through-hole, ensuring that both the outer drum 30 and the inner drum 40 are filled with liquid. The liquid level in the inner drum 40 and the outer drum 30 can be controlled by controlling the liquid inlet valve. The liquid level in the inner drum 40 refers to the height of the liquid within the inner drum 40, which is typically measured relative to the lowest point of the inner drum 40 facing the bottom wall 103. Similarly, the liquid level in the outer drum 30 refers to the height of the liquid within the outer drum 30, which is typically measured relative to the lowest point of the outer drum 30 facing the bottom wall 103.

[0079] It should be noted that when the washing machine 100 is filled with water, the inner drum 40 is stationary relative to the outer drum 30, and the liquid levels in the inner drum 40 and the outer drum 30 are usually at the same height.

[0080] Figure 3 A schematic diagram of the installation of a drain pipe 61 and a drain control component 62 inside a washing machine 100 is shown.

[0081] See Figure 3 The washing machine 100 also includes a drain pipe 61. The drain pipe 61 is located between the outer drum 30 and the bottom wall 103 of the casing 10. The liquid inlet 6111 of the drain pipe 61 is connected to the outer drum 30, and the liquid outlet 6112 of the drain pipe 61 extends to the outside of the casing 10, so that the liquid inside the outer drum 30 can be discharged to the outside of the casing 10 through the drain pipe 61.

[0082] The washing machine 100 also includes a drain control component 62. For example, the drain control component 62 can be a drain valve or a drain pump. The drain control component 62 is used to control the connection between the liquid outlet 6112 and the liquid inlet 6111. When the washing machine 100 is draining, the drain control component 62 can be opened to connect the liquid outlet 6112 and the liquid inlet 6111. At this time, the liquid in the outer drum 30 can be drained to the outside of the machine casing 10 through the drain pipe 61. When the washing machine 100 is washing, the drain control component 62 can be closed to block the connection between the liquid outlet 6112 and the liquid inlet 6111, thereby preventing the liquid in the outer drum 30 from being drained to the outside of the machine casing 10 through the drain pipe 61, ensuring that the liquid in the outer drum 30 does not leak out, and thus maintaining a sufficient amount of liquid in the outer drum 30.

[0083] See Figure 3 The washing machine 100 also includes a heating element 50. For example, the heating element 50 can be an electric heater. The heating element 50 heats the liquid inside the outer drum 30 of the washing machine 100. When the liquid inside the outer drum 30 is heated by the heating element 50, it becomes warm water. Warm water can dissolve detergent more effectively, improving the detergent's cleaning power. Hot water also helps remove grease, protein, and other stubborn stains, thereby improving the washing effect.

[0084] In addition, the liquid inside the outer drum 30 has many other advantages after being heated by the heating element 50. For example, when the liquid inside the outer drum 30 is heated into warm water by the heating element 50, the washing time can be shortened and the efficiency of the washing machine 100 can be improved.

[0085] The heating element 50 can heat the liquid in the outer drum 30 when the washing machine 100 is filled with water, so that the liquid can quickly reach the target temperature. In addition to the washing machine 100 filling with water, in some washing programs of the washing machine 100, the heating element 50 can also heat the liquid in the outer drum 30, so that the liquid in the outer drum 30 and the inner drum 40 can reach the temperature required for the washing program.

[0086] As described in the background art, in the process of water intake, existing washing machines may experience dry burning of the heating element 50 when the liquid level in the outer drum 30 is insufficient, which may lead to damage to the heating element 50 due to overheating. At the same time, it may also cause electrical malfunctions.

[0087] In related technologies, to prevent the heating element 50 from dry-burning, a conventional approach is to include a fusible resistor in the heating circuit of the heating element 50. When the resistor reaches its melting point, it disconnects, thus preventing the heating circuit of the heating element 50 from being connected. Therefore, by using a fusible resistor, the heating element 50 can be protected against dry-burning and high temperatures. For the washing machine 100, the melting point of the resistor is typically between 130-180℃.

[0088] However, in reality, the temperature distribution on the surface of the heating element 50 is uneven. Before the resistor melts, the local temperature on the surface of the heating element 50 may already far exceed the melting temperature of the resistor. For example, according to experimental tests, the local temperature on the surface of the heating element 50 exceeded 500°C before the resistor melted. Therefore, even with a fusible resistor, the heating element 50 still carries the risk of dry burning.

[0089] In view of this, the washing machine 100 provided in this application embodiment improves the structure of the drain pipe 61. The drain pipe 61 includes a main drain pipe 611 and a branch pipe 612, and a float switch 70 is added. The float switch 70 is located inside the branch pipe 612, and the switching mechanism 71 inside the float switch 70 is electrically connected between the heating element 50 and the power supply 200. The float 72 in the float switch 70 can move relative to the switching mechanism 71 within the branch pipe 612 according to the changes in the liquid in the branch pipe 612. When the float 72 is raised to a preset height within the branch pipe 612, it triggers the switching mechanism 71 to close, thereby connecting the heating element 50 and the power supply 200. At this time, the heating element 50 can heat the liquid in the outer drum 30. When the float 72 is raised to the preset height, the liquid level in the outer drum 30 is above the heating element 50, that is, the surface of the heating element 50 is fully immersed in the liquid in the outer drum 30, and the heating element 50 will not dry-burn. Therefore, by improving the structure of the drain pipe 61 and setting the float switch 70, it is possible to protect the heating element 50 from dry burning when the washing machine 100 is filled with water, reduce the risk of dry burning of the heating element 50, improve the service life of the heating element 50 and the safety of the washing machine 100.

[0090] Figure 4 A schematic diagram showing the installation of a drain assembly 60 and a float switch 70 within a washing machine 100 is shown. Figure 5 yes Figure 4 A schematic diagram of the liquid levels in the outer drum 30 and drain pipe 61 of the washing machine 100.

[0091] The following is a combination of... Figure 4 , Figure 5 The structure of the washing machine 100 of this application will be further described in the examples and embodiments.

[0092] See Figure 4 and Figure 5 The washing machine 100 also includes a heating element 50, which is disposed inside the outer drum 30. The heating element 50 is electrically connected to the power supply 200 to heat the liquid inside the outer drum 30. The heating element 50 can be a structure capable of heating liquids, such as the aforementioned electric heater.

[0093] The drainage assembly 60 includes a drain pipe 61, which includes a main drain pipe 611. The main drain pipe 611 has an inlet end 6111 and an outlet end 6112. The inlet end 6111 is located between the outer cylinder 30 and the bottom wall 103 and communicates with the interior of the outer cylinder 30. The outlet end 6112 is located outside the outer cylinder 30 so that liquid inside the outer cylinder 30 can enter the main drain pipe 6111 through the inlet end 6111 and flow toward the outlet end 6112.

[0094] The drain pipe 61 also includes a branch pipe 612, one end of which is connected to the portion of the main drain pipe 611 between the inlet end 6111 and the outlet end 6112, and is located on the side of the main drain pipe 611 facing the top wall 104, so that the liquid in the outer cylinder 30 can enter the branch pipe 612 through the main drain pipe 611. Specifically, as the liquid in the outer cylinder 30 enters the main drain pipe 611 through the inlet end 6111 and flows towards the outlet end 6112, some of the liquid will enter the branch pipe 612.

[0095] The drainage assembly 60 also includes a drainage control element 62, which is located on the main drainage pipe 611 on the side of the branch pipe 612 adjacent to the outlet end 6112. That is, along the flow direction of the liquid in the main drainage pipe 611, the drainage control element 62 is located downstream of the branch pipe 612. Furthermore, the drainage control element 62 is used to control the communication state between the outlet end 6112 and the inlet end 6111. Controlling the communication state between the outlet end 6112 and the inlet end 6111 can include both connection and non-connection. At least a portion of the drainage control element 62 may be disposed within the main drainage pipe 611 to control the communication state between the outlet end 6112 and the inlet end 6111. For example, the drainage control element 62 can be a drainage pump, a drainage valve, etc.

[0096] By configuring the drain control component 62, the liquid inlet end 6111 can be connected or disconnected from the liquid inlet end 6111 according to the requirements of the washing machine 100 in different operating processes. This allows the liquid level in the inner drum 40 and outer drum 30 to be maintained at a relatively stable position, or the liquid in the inner drum 40 and outer drum 30 to be discharged to the outside of the machine casing 10 through the drain pipe 611. For example, when the washing machine 100 is in the water intake and washing process, the drain control component 62 can control the liquid outlet end 6112 to be disconnected from the liquid inlet end 6111, so that the liquid level in the inner drum 40 and outer drum 30 is maintained at a relatively stable position. As another example, when the washing machine 100 is in the draining process, the drain control component 62 can control the liquid outlet end 6112 to be connected to the liquid inlet end 6111, so that the liquid in the inner drum 40 and outer drum 30 is discharged to the outside of the machine casing 10 through the drain pipe 6111.

[0097] Furthermore, when the drain control unit 62 controls the outlet end 6112 and the inlet end 6111 to be disconnected, the diverter pipe 612, the main drain pipe 611, and the outer drum 30 will form a communicating vessel structure. Based on the principle that when a communicating vessel is in a static state, the liquid in each container will reach the same liquid level, and the diverter pipe 612 and the outer drum 30 can be regarded as two containers of the communicating vessel, therefore, when the washing machine 100 is filled with water, the liquid level in the diverter pipe 612 and the outer drum 30 is the same.

[0098] See Figure 4 and Figure 5 The washing machine 100 also includes a float switch 70, which is located inside the diversion pipe 612.

[0099] Figure 6 A schematic diagram of the connection of a switching mechanism 71 in the heating circuit of a heater is shown.

[0100] See Figure 6 and combined Figure 4 and Figure 5 The float switch 70 includes a switching mechanism 71, which is electrically connected between the heating element 50 and the power supply 200. Specifically, the switching mechanism 71 has a first connection end and a second connection end, the first connection end being electrically connected to the heating element 50 and the second connection end being electrically connected to the power supply 200.

[0101] The switching mechanism 71 is configured to electrically connect the heating element 50 and the power supply 200. This allows the switching mechanism 71 to be electrically connected to the heating circuit of the heating element 50, enabling control over the conduction state of the electrical connection between the heating element 50 and the power supply 200. The conduction state of the electrical connection between the heating element 50 and the power supply 200 includes an on state and a non-conducting state.

[0102] Figure 7 It shows Figure 5 A schematic diagram showing the increase in liquid level in the outer drum 30 and the diversion pipe 612 of the washing machine 100.

[0103] See Figure 7 and combined Figure 5 The float switch 70 also includes a float 72, which floats on the liquid surface of the diversion pipe 612. As the liquid level in the diversion pipe 612 increases, the float 72 is raised to a preset height to trigger the closing of the switch mechanism 71, thereby connecting the heating element 50 and the power supply 200. When the float 72 triggers the switch mechanism 71, the liquid in the outer cylinder 30 must at least cover the heating element 50. The liquid level in the diversion pipe 612 refers to the height the liquid can reach within the diversion pipe 612, which is measured relative to the end face of the diversion pipe 612 connected to the main drain pipe 611.

[0104] Since the diversion pipe 612 and the outer drum 30 can be regarded as two containers of a communicating vessel, when the washing machine 100 fills the inner drum 40 with water, the liquid level in the outer drum 30 will increase, and correspondingly, the liquid level in the diversion pipe 612 will also increase, until the liquid level in the diversion pipe 612 and the liquid level in the outer drum 30 are the same again.

[0105] Since the float 72 floats on the liquid surface of the diverter tube 612, the float 72 can move relative to the switching mechanism 71 within the diverter tube 612 according to the changes in the liquid level, thus changing the height of the float 72 within the diverter tube 612. Therefore, when the liquid level in the diverter tube 612 increases, the height of the float 72 within the diverter tube 612 will also be increased.

[0106] The switch mechanism 71 is activated when the float 72 is raised to a preset height within the diversion pipe 612, thus connecting the heating element 50 to the power supply 200 and enabling the heating element 50 to heat the liquid inside the outer drum 30. Conversely, when the washing machine 100 is filled with water and the float 72 is not raised to the preset height, the switch mechanism 71 remains open, preventing the connection between the heating element 50 and the power supply 200, and thus preventing the heating element 50 from heating the liquid inside the outer drum 30.

[0107] Furthermore, when the float 72 triggers the switch mechanism 71, the liquid in the outer cylinder 30 is designed to at least cover the heating element 50. This ensures that when the float 72 is raised to a preset height to trigger the switch mechanism 71 to close, the liquid level in the outer cylinder 30 covers the heating element 50. In other words, the surface of the heating element 50 is fully immersed in the liquid in the outer cylinder 30, preventing the heating element 50 from dry-burning due to excessively high local surface temperatures.

[0108] Therefore, by improving the structure of the drain pipe 61 and setting the float switch 70 and the drain control component 62, this embodiment of the application can realize the protection against dry burning of the heating element 50 when the washing machine 100 is filled with water, so as to reduce the risk of dry burning of the heating element 50. In this way, while satisfying the function of heating the liquid in the inner drum 40 and the outer drum 30 of the washing machine 100, the service life of the heating element 50 and the safety of the washing machine 100 can be improved.

[0109] It should be noted that the preset height at which the float 72 is lifted when the switch mechanism 71 is triggered is related to factors such as the initial height of the float 72 in the diverter tube 612, the height that the float 72 needs to be lifted when the switch mechanism 71 is triggered, and the installation height of the heating element 50 in the outer cylinder 30. Therefore, in this application, there is no specific limitation on the preset height at which the float 72 is lifted when the switch mechanism 71 is triggered. It is only necessary to ensure that when the float 72 is lifted to the preset height and the switch mechanism 71 is closed, the liquid level in the outer cylinder 30 is at least above the heating element 50.

[0110] It should be understood that "the liquid in the outer cylinder 30 at least covers the heating element 50" means that all the outer surfaces of the heating element 50 are completely covered by the liquid, or that the heating element 50 is submerged in the liquid in the outer cylinder 30, and there is a certain distance between the surface of the heating element 50 and the liquid surface of the outer cylinder 30.

[0111] See Figure 4 In some embodiments, before the float 72 is raised to a preset height, the diversion pipe 612 and the float 72 define a cavity 6121 for the float 72 to float on the side of the float 72 away from the main drain pipe 611. Specifically, the float 72 and a portion of the inner wall of the diversion pipe 612 may jointly define a cavity 6121 on the side of the float 72 away from the main drain pipe 611.

[0112] By setting this cavity 6121, it can be ensured that when the liquid level in the diversion pipe 612 increases, the float 72 can move in the diversion pipe 612 toward the side away from the main drain pipe 611, so that the float 72 is lifted.

[0113] See Figure 4 The height H of cavity 6121 is greater than or equal to the height to which float 72 is lifted when trigger switch mechanism 71 is closed.

[0114] By setting the height of cavity 6121 to be greater than or equal to the height to which float 72 is lifted when trigger switch mechanism 71 is closed, the height of cavity 6121 can ensure that float 72 is lifted to a preset height, thereby triggering switch mechanism 71 to close, so that heating element 50 and power supply 200 are connected.

[0115] Figure 8 This diagram shows a schematic of the structure of a float switch 70 when the switching mechanism 71 is not closed. Figure 9 A schematic diagram of a float switch 70 is shown when the switching mechanism 71 is closed.

[0116] See Figures 7 to 9 In some embodiments, the washing machine 100 may further include a first limiting member 80 located within the diversion pipe 612 on the side of the float 72 opposite to the drain main pipe 611. The first limiting member 80 is used to contact the float 72 when the float 72 is raised to a preset height.

[0117] While ensuring that the float 72 triggers the switch mechanism 71 and is closed, the first limiting member 80 contacts the float 72, which can limit the maximum height of the float 72 to prevent the float 72 from rising too high and causing the heating circuit of the heating element 50 to be disconnected again. This ensures that the heating element 50 and the power supply 200 are always connected during the subsequent continuous water intake process of the washing machine 100, so that the heating element 50 can continuously heat the liquid in the outer drum 30.

[0118] The first limiting member 80 may be located on the inner end face of the end of the diversion pipe 612 opposite to the main drain pipe 611, or the first limiting member 80 may be located on the circumferential side wall of the switching mechanism 71 (e.g., Figures 7 to 8 (As shown).

[0119] By limiting the possible positions of the first limiting member 80, the possible positions of the first limiting member 80 can be diversified, thereby increasing the diversity of the positions of the first limiting member 80.

[0120] When the first limiting member 80 is located on the circumferential side wall of the switching mechanism 71, the first limiting member 80 can be understood as a protrusion on the circumferential side wall of the switching mechanism 71. The switching mechanism 71 can also be fixed to the inner wall of the diversion pipe 612 by the first limiting member 80, so as to realize the installation of the switching mechanism 71 in the diversion pipe 612.

[0121] When the first limiting member 80 is located on the inner end face of the end of the diversion pipe 612 away from the main drainage pipe 611, the end of the diversion pipe 612 away from the main drainage pipe 611 can be a blocking end. The inner end face of the blocking end forms the inner top surface of the cavity 6121. The first limiting member 80 can be located on the inner end face of the blocking end so as to contact the float 72 during the process of the float 72 rising and limit the rising height of the float 72 in the cavity 6121.

[0122] When the diversion pipe 612 is a pipe with only one open end, the open end of the diversion pipe 612 can be connected to the main drain pipe 611, while the other end forms a sealed end. Alternatively, the diversion pipe 612 can also be a pipe with open ends. In this case, a plug or sealing cap can be installed at the end of the diversion pipe 612 away from the main drain pipe 611, so that the end of the diversion pipe 612 away from the main drain pipe 611 can form a sealed end.

[0123] See Figures 7 to 9 In some embodiments, the washing machine 100 may further include a second limiting member 90 located within the diversion pipe 612 on the side of the float 72 facing the drain main 611. When the outer tub 30 is not filled with liquid, the second limiting member 90 contacts the float 72.

[0124] By contacting the float 72 with the second limiting member 90, the float 72 can be confined within the diversion pipe 612 to prevent the float 72 from detaching from the diversion pipe 612 and entering the main drain pipe 611, thus affecting the triggering of the switch mechanism 71 by the float 72. This ensures that when the liquid level in the diversion pipe 612 increases, the float 72 can be raised to a preset height to trigger the switch mechanism 71 and connect the heating element 50 to the power supply 200.

[0125] The second limiting member 90 can be located on the inner wall of the diversion pipe 612 or the main drain pipe 611, or the second limiting member 90 can also be located on the circumferential side wall of the switching mechanism 71 (e.g., Figures 7 to 9 (As shown).

[0126] By limiting the possible positions of the second limiting member 90, the positions of the first limiting member 80 can be made more diverse, thus increasing the versatility of the first limiting member 80's positions.

[0127] When the second limiting member 90 is located on the circumferential side wall of the switching mechanism 71, the second limiting member 90 can be understood as a protrusion on the circumferential side wall of the switching mechanism 71. The switching mechanism 71 can also be fixed to the inner wall of the diversion pipe 612 by the second limiting member 90, so as to realize the installation of the switching mechanism 71 in the diversion pipe 612.

[0128] When the second limiting member 90 is located on the inner wall of the diversion pipe 612 or the main drain pipe 611, the second limiting member 90 can be understood as a protrusion on the inner wall of the diversion pipe 612 or the main drain pipe 611.

[0129] See Figure 4 In some embodiments, the outer cylinder 30 has an opening end 31 and a bottom end 32 in the axial direction. The heating element 50 is usually located between the outer cylinder 30 and the inner cylinder 40, and the heating element 50 is installed at the bottom end 32 relative to the opening end 31. The diverter 612 is located on the side of the bottom end 32 away from the opening end 31.

[0130] Since the drum opening 31 faces the front 101 of the casing 10 and the drum bottom 32 faces the back 102 of the casing 10, when the diverter pipe 612 is located on the side of the drum bottom 32 away from the drum opening 31, the diverter pipe 612 can be positioned between the side of the drum bottom 32 facing the back 102 of the casing 10 and the casing 10. The diverter pipe 612 will not occupy the space inside the outer drum 30, thus avoiding any impact on the single washing capacity of the washing machine 100. Furthermore, when the diverter pipe 612 is located on the side of the drum bottom 32 away from the drum opening 31, the switch mechanism 71 can be brought closer to the heating element 50, facilitating electrical connection between the switch mechanism 71 and the heating element 50.

[0131] It should be noted that, Figure 4 This diagram only illustrates the installation position of the heating element 50 inside the outer cylinder 30 and does not constitute a limitation on the installation position of the heating element 50. When the installation position of the heating element 50 in the outer cylinder 30 is changed, the position of the diverter pipe 612 can also be changed accordingly to facilitate the electrical connection between the heating element 50 and the switching mechanism 71.

[0132] See Figure 8 and Figure 9In some embodiments, the switching mechanism 71 further includes a switching element 711 with two contact points 7111, which are in a non-conductive state. Specifically, there may be a gap between the two contact points 7111 to ensure they are in a non-conductive state. A float 72 is located on the side of the two contact points 7111 facing the drain main 611. As the liquid level in the diversion pipe 612 increases, the float 72 can move relative to the switching mechanism 71 within the diversion pipe 612 and be raised to a preset height, thereby triggering the two contact points 7111 to switch from a non-conductive state to a conductive state. During the process of the float 72 moving relative to the switching mechanism 71 within the shunt tube 612 and being lifted to a preset height, at least one of the two contact points 7111 can move toward each other until the float 72 is lifted to the preset height, at which point the two contact points 7111 come into contact, so that the two contact points 7111 switch from a non-conductive state to a conductive state.

[0133] When the two contact points 7111 are not conducting with each other, the switch 711 is open; when the two contact points 7111 are conducting with each other, the switch 711 is closed.

[0134] Therefore, when the float 72 triggers the two contact points 7111 to switch from a non-conductive state to a conductive state, the switch 711 can be closed, thereby connecting the heating element 50 and the power supply 200, and the heating element 50 can heat the liquid inside the outer cylinder 30.

[0135] It should be noted that the switch 711 may include two springs 7112, one of which is located in the first connecting end of the switch mechanism 71 and the other is located in the second connecting end of the switch mechanism 71. The two springs 7112 overlap at their close ends and form two contact points 7111.

[0136] See Figure 8 and Figure 9 In some embodiments, the float 72 is movably sleeved on the circumferential outer wall of the switching mechanism 71, and a magnetic element 721 is provided inside the float 72 on the side near the switching mechanism 71. When the liquid level in the diversion pipe 612 increases, the magnetic element 721 can move closer to the switching element 711, so that the two contact points 7111 switch from a non-conductive state to a conductive state. Therefore, by providing the magnetic element 721, the float switch 70 can close the switching element 711 when it moves relative to the switching mechanism 71, so that the heating element 50 and the power supply 200 are connected.

[0137] It should be understood that when the liquid level in the diverter 612 decreases, the float 72 will be able to move away from the two contact points 7111 of the switch 711, thereby driving the magnetic component 721 away from the two contact points 7111 of the switch 711, so that the two contact points 7111 switch from the conducting state to the non-conducting state.

[0138] The magnetic component 721 can be a ring structure. For example, the magnetic component 721 can be a ring magnet.

[0139] Compared to other non-ring structures of the magnetic component 721, when the magnetic component 721 is a ring structure, it can provide a more uniform magnetic field distribution. This helps to improve the sensitivity and stability of the float switch 70, so as to avoid the switch component 711 from being accidentally closed due to external magnetic field interference. It can enhance the protection against dry burning of the heating element 50 when the washing machine 100 is filled with water, further reduce the risk of dry burning of the heating element 50, improve the service life of the heating element 50 and the safety of the washing machine 100.

[0140] It should be noted that, Figure 8 and Figure 9 This is merely a schematic diagram of the structure of one type of float switch 70 and does not constitute a limitation on the structure of the float switch 70. For example, in some other embodiments, the float 72 can also be connected to the switching mechanism 71 via a mechanical connection (such as a rod, chain, or hinge). When the liquid level in the diversion pipe 612 changes, the float 72 will move and transmit the change to the switching mechanism 71 through the mechanical connection, thereby closing or opening the switching mechanism 71.

[0141] During the washing process, the inner drum 40 rotates relative to the outer drum 30. This rotation may affect the liquid level in the outer drum 30, causing it to fluctuate momentarily. This instability in the liquid level within the diversion pipe 612 leads to fluctuations in the position of the float 72 relative to the switching mechanism 71 within the diversion pipe 612. If the heating element 50 still needs to heat the liquid in the outer drum 30 during the washing process, the closing of the float 72 relative to the switching mechanism 71 will also be unstable. This results in an unstable connection between the heating element 50 and the power supply 200, preventing the heating element 50 from stably heating the liquid in the outer drum 30 and ultimately leading to unsatisfactory washing results.

[0142] Figure 10 A one-way check valve 63 is shown. Figure 4 Installation diagram of washing machine 100.

[0143] See Figure 10In some embodiments, the drainage assembly 60 may further include a one-way check valve 63, which is disposed within the main drainage pipe 611 and located on the side of the branch pipe 612 opposite to the drainage control component 62. The one-way check valve 63 is used to allow liquid flowing out of the inlet end 6111 to pass through and flow toward the outlet end 6112 and the branch pipe 612.

[0144] By configuring the one-way check valve 63 to allow the liquid flowing out of the inlet end 6111 to pass through and flow toward the outlet end 6112 and the diversion pipe 612, when the washing machine 100 is filled with water, the liquid flowing out of the outer drum 30 through the inlet end can enter the diversion pipe 612 through the drain main pipe 611, so as to ensure that the float 72 can be raised to a preset height to trigger the switch mechanism 71.

[0145] Furthermore, based on the unidirectional flow characteristic of the one-way check valve 63, the liquid in the diversion pipe 612 cannot flow back into the outer drum 30 through the drain main pipe 611 and the one-way check valve 63, thus maintaining the liquid level in the diversion pipe at a relatively stable state. This avoids fluctuations in the liquid level in the outer drum 30 during washing, which could cause fluctuations in the float switch 70. This ensures that the float 72 remains relatively stable relative to the switch mechanism 71 within the diversion pipe 612, resulting in a relatively stable connection state between the heating element 50 and the power supply 200. The heating element 50 can stably heat the liquid in the outer drum 30, ensuring a good washing effect.

[0146] The one-way check valve 63 may include a one-way valve. In this way, the one-way check valve 63 can take advantage of the characteristic of the one-way valve that only allows liquid to flow in one direction, so that the liquid flowing out of the inlet end 6111 can pass through and flow toward the outlet end 6112 and the diversion pipe 612, while preventing the liquid in the diversion pipe 612 from passing through and flowing back into the outer cylinder 30.

[0147] It should be noted that, in addition to a one-way valve, the one-way check valve 63 can also be other structures. For example, the one-way check valve 63 can also be a one-way diaphragm, etc.

[0148] In the description of this application, it should be understood that the terms “comprising” and “having” as used herein, and any variations thereof, are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion, for example, a process, method, display structure, product, or device that includes a step or unit is not necessarily limited to those steps or units that are expressly listed, but may include other steps or units that are not expressly listed or that are inherent to such process, method, product, or device.

[0149] It should be understood that the terms "left", "right", "top", "bottom", "inner", "outer", etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They are only for the convenience of describing this application and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on this application.

[0150] Finally, it should be noted that the above embodiments are only used to illustrate the technical solutions of this application, and are not intended to limit them. Although this application has been described in detail with reference to the foregoing embodiments, those skilled in the art should understand that modifications can still be made to the technical solutions described in the foregoing embodiments, or equivalent substitutions can be made to some or all of the technical features therein. Such modifications or substitutions do not cause the essence of the corresponding technical solutions to deviate from the scope of the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application.

Claims

1. A laundry machine characterized by, The application relates to a water heating device, which comprises: a cabinet having a bottom wall and a top wall arranged oppositely in a height direction; a cylinder assembly, which comprises: an outer cylinder arranged in the cabinet; an inner cylinder rotatably arranged in the outer cylinder; the outer cylinder and the inner cylinder are used for containing liquid; a heating element arranged in the outer cylinder; the heating element is electrically connected with a power source to heat the liquid in the outer cylinder; a drainage assembly, which comprises: a drainage pipe, which comprises: a drainage main pipe having a liquid inlet end and a liquid outlet end; the liquid inlet end is located between the outer cylinder and the bottom wall and communicates with the inside of the outer cylinder; the liquid outlet end is located outside the outer cylinder; a shunt pipe, which communicates with the part of the drainage main pipe between the liquid inlet end and the liquid outlet end and is located on the side of the drainage main pipe facing the top wall, so that the liquid in the outer cylinder can enter the shunt pipe through the drainage main pipe; a drainage control element, which is located on the side of the drainage main pipe adjacent to the liquid outlet end of the shunt pipe and is used for controlling the communication state between the liquid inlet end and the liquid outlet end; a float switch arranged in the shunt pipe; the float switch comprises: a switch mechanism used for electrically connecting the heating element and the power source; a float floating on the liquid surface of the shunt pipe and being lifted to a preset height to trigger the switch mechanism to close when the liquid level in the shunt pipe is increased, so that the electric connection between the heating element and the power source is conducted; when the switch mechanism is triggered, the liquid in the outer cylinder at least covers the outer surface of the heating element.

2. A laundry washing machine according to Claim 1, characterized in that Before the float is lifted to the preset height, the shunt pipe and the float on the side of the float away from the drainage main pipe define a cavity for the float to float up; the height of the cavity is greater than the height of the float when the switch mechanism is triggered to close.

3. A laundry washing machine according to Claim 1, characterized in that a first limiting element located in the shunt pipe on the side of the float away from the drainage main pipe; when the float is lifted to the preset height, the first limiting element is used for contacting the float.

4. A laundry washing machine according to Claim 3, characterized in that The first limiting element is located on the inner end face of the end of the shunt pipe away from the drainage main pipe, or the first limiting element is located on the circumferential side wall of the switch mechanism.

5. The laundry machine according to claim 1, characterized in that, a second limiting element located in the shunt pipe on the side of the float facing the drainage main pipe; when the outer cylinder does not contain the liquid, the second limiting element contacts the float.

6. A laundry washing machine according to Claim 5, characterized in that The second limiting element is located on the inner wall of the shunt pipe or the drainage main pipe, or the second limiting element is located on the circumferential side wall of the switch mechanism.

7. A laundry washing machine according to Claim 2, characterized in that The outer cylinder has a cylinder top end and a cylinder bottom end in the axial direction; the heating element is located between the outer cylinder and the inner cylinder and is installed on the cylinder bottom end compared with the cylinder top end; the shunt pipe is located on the side of the cylinder bottom end away from the cylinder top end.

8. A laundry washing machine according to any one of the preceding claims 1-7, characterized in that, The switch mechanism further comprises a switch element having two contact points in a non-conductive state, and the float is located on the side of the two contact points facing the drain main pipe; As the liquid level in the shunt pipe increases, the float moves in the shunt pipe relative to the switch mechanism and is lifted to the preset height, so that the float triggers the two contact points to switch from the non-conductive state to the conductive state.

9. A laundry washing machine according to Claim 8, characterized in that The float is movably sleeved on the circumferential outer wall of the switch mechanism, and a magnetic element is arranged on the side of the float close to the switch mechanism; When the liquid level in the shunt pipe increases, the magnetic element can approach the switch element, so that the two contact points switch from the non-conductive state to the conductive state.

10. A laundry washing machine according to any one of the preceding claims 1-7, characterized in that, The drain assembly further comprises a one-way check element arranged in the drain main pipe and located on the side of the shunt pipe away from the drain control element; The one-way check element is used to make the liquid flowing out of the liquid inlet end flow through and towards the liquid outlet end and the shunt pipe.

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