Clothing processing equipment

Abstract

This application relates to the technical field of garment processing equipment, specifically to a garment processing device comprising a housing having an outer shell and a pull-out container slidably supported on the housing in a pull-out direction. The device includes: a container body; and a handle panel adapted to slide the container body in the pull-out direction. The handle panel has an outer shell and has a first state and a second state. In the first state, the outer shell is flush with the outer shell and has a gap between them in the pull-out direction to allow the handle panel to move into the second state. In the second state, the handle panel protrudes from the outer shell to allow operation of the handle panel to slide the pull-out container. Thus, on the one hand, it ensures that the garment processing device maintains a basically flat and uniform visual appearance in the non-operating first state; on the other hand, the gap in the pull-out direction provides necessary movement space for the handle panel, thereby achieving a smooth transition of the pull-out container from closed to open.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the technical field of clothing processing equipment, and specifically to a clothing processing device. Background Technology

[0002] Clothing handling equipment (such as household washing machines) typically includes a housing and a pull-out container within the housing for holding detergent or collecting condensate. This pull-out container is usually interacted with by a handle panel, allowing the user to pull the container out of the housing or push it back in. In recent years, as consumers have increasingly demanded simpler designs and easier operation from clothing handling equipment, manufacturers have gradually favored designing concealed handle panels to achieve a more aesthetically pleasing overall appearance. While this design trend enhances the integrated look of the equipment, it also presents new challenges to the operational functionality and structural stability of the handle panel.

[0003] Therefore, there is still a real need to improve the structure of pull-out containers for garment processing equipment. Summary of the Invention

[0004] In view of this, the purpose of embodiments of this application is to provide an improved garment handling device to overcome at least one of the above-mentioned disadvantages and / or other possible disadvantages not mentioned herein.

[0005] According to this application, a garment processing device is provided, comprising: a housing having an outer shell; and a pull-out container slidably supported on the housing along a pull-out direction, the pull-out container having: a container body; and a handle panel adapted to slide the container body along the pull-out direction, the handle panel having a panel outer shell, the handle panel being configured to have a first state and a second state. In the first state, the panel outer shell is flush with the outer shell and has a gap between them in the pull-out direction to allow the handle panel to move to enter the second state. In the second state, the handle panel protrudes from the outer shell to allow operation of the handle panel to slide the pull-out container. Thus, on the one hand, the garment processing device maintains a basically flat and consistent visual appearance in the non-operating first state; on the other hand, the gap in the pull-out direction provides the necessary movement space for the handle panel, thereby achieving a smooth transition of the pull-out container from closed to open.

[0006] According to an optional embodiment, the pull-out container has a latching assembly disposed between the housing and the handle panel and configured to lock the handle panel to the housing when the handle panel is in a first state, and to unlock the handle panel from the housing when the handle panel moves from the first state to the second state, allowing the pull-out container to be pulled out. This effectively prevents the user from directly prying open the handle panel through the gap, thus avoiding problems such as functional failure and poor user experience caused by user error.

[0007] According to an optional embodiment, the pull-out container has a spring disposed between the handle panel and the container body or between the handle panel and the housing. The spring is configured to apply a spring force to the handle panel when it is pressed, causing the handle panel to move. Thus, on the one hand, the spring force ensures that the handle panel can quickly and stably enter a second state protruding from the outer side of the housing after being pressed; on the other hand, the gap provides necessary space for the movement of the handle panel, avoiding movement interference due to space constraints; simultaneously, it allows for a synergistic effect with the latching assembly, ensuring that the handle panel remains locked in the non-pressed state, and can smoothly unlock and enter an operable state after being pressed, thereby improving the overall operational reliability of the garment handling equipment.

[0008] According to an optional embodiment, the pull-out container has a push-type locking component disposed between the handle panel and the container body, the push-type locking component being configured to allow the handle panel to switch between a first state and a second state. This ensures that the handle panel can only transition from a locked state to an operable state when the user performs a specific pressing action, effectively preventing accidental opening due to accidental touch or improper operation.

[0009] According to one alternative embodiment, the handle panel is configured to flip relative to the container body to form a handle area. Thus, upon pressing, the handle panel switches from a first state (closed state) to a second state (allowed to be pulled out) through a flipping action, thereby forming a protruding handle area that allows the user to easily identify and operate to pull out the pull-out container. The flipping mechanism, in conjunction with a spring and / or a push-type locking component, also ensures a smooth movement trajectory and reliable state retention during flipping, avoiding operational jamming or functional failure due to over- or under-flipping.

[0010] According to an optional embodiment, the latching assembly includes a first latch disposed on the housing and a second latch disposed on the handle panel. The first latch and the second latch are configured to lock together in the first state and unlock together in the second state. Thus, through the mechanical cooperation of the first and second latches, the handle panel is effectively prevented from being accidentally opened when it is in the first state (closed state). The latching assembly can only unlock smoothly after the user performs the correct pressing operation, avoiding misoperation or damage caused by unexpected external forces and improving the reliability of the device.

[0011] According to one optional embodiment, the handle panel is configured to rotate about an axis perpendicular to the pulling direction. This rotation of the handle panel about an axis perpendicular to the pulling direction ensures that its movement trajectory from the first state (closed state) to the second state (allowed to be pulled out) spatially aligns with the sliding direction of the pull-out container, avoiding problems such as limited operating space or movement interference caused by improper rotation direction. The vertical setting of the axis allows the handle panel to naturally form a protruding handle area after rotation, facilitating the user to pull the container out from the pulling direction, thereby improving operational convenience and accuracy. It also optimizes the spatial layout between the handle panel and the housing, avoiding significant interference with the device's appearance.

[0012] According to an optional embodiment, in the locked state of the latch assembly, the latch assembly is configured to be invisible from the outside of the garment processing device. Thus, when the handle panel is in the first state (closed state), the latch assembly is hidden inside the device and cannot be directly observed from the outside. This concealed design not only maintains the flushness between the outer side of the housing and the outer side of the handle panel, but also prevents users from making accidental attempts to operate the latch assembly due to direct visibility, thereby reducing the possibility of forceful prying or improper operation.

[0013] According to an alternative embodiment, the housing has a notch adapted to accommodate the handle panel, and the first and second latches are respectively constructed within the notch on the inner sides of the housing and the handle panel facing each other and moving away from each other when the handle panel is flipped. This ensures that the latch assembly is completely concealed within the notch when the handle panel is in the first state (closed state). While maintaining a clean appearance, the latch assembly works in conjunction with the spring and / or push-type locking assembly, prompting the user to unlock the latch assembly using the correct pressing and flipping operation, avoiding unintended actions such as forceful prying or bypassing the normal operating procedure. This achieves an optimized combination of concealment and functionality for the latch assembly.

[0014] According to an optional embodiment, the axis is a horizontal axis. Thus, the handle panel rotates around the horizontal axis, ensuring that the handle area formed by the handle panel is substantially consistent with the user's natural operating direction. This avoids problems such as limited operating space or motion interference caused by improper rotation direction, optimizes the spatial layout between the handle panel and the housing, and improves the user's convenience in operating the garment handling equipment.

[0015] According to an alternative embodiment, the first latch is constructed on the inner side of the top wall of the cavity defined by the housing. This fully utilizes the spatial characteristics of the housing, allowing the latch assembly to be completely hidden inside the device in the locked state. Simultaneously, it matches the movement trajectory of the handle panel during rotation, enabling the latch assembly to unlock naturally during rotation, thus optimizing both layout and function.

[0016] According to one alternative embodiment, the handle panel has an inwardly extending cantilever, on which the second latch is constructed. Thus, the cantilever design fully utilizes the internal space of the handle panel, allowing the second latch to be completely concealed within the device in the locked state. Furthermore, the cantilever ensures that the second latch can smoothly unlock from the first latch when the handle panel is flipped to the second state (the state where it can be pulled out), avoiding motion interference or unlocking difficulties caused by improper positioning, and improving the reliability of device operation.

[0017] According to an optional embodiment, the first latch includes at least one first protrusion, and the second latch includes at least one second protrusion. In the locked state of the latch assembly, the first protrusion and the second protrusion are mutually restrained in the pulling direction. This effectively prevents the handle panel from being accidentally pulled out under incorrect pressing or from being opened directly by forcibly prying open gaps, thus avoiding malfunction of the device.

[0018] According to one optional embodiment, the handle panel is configured to be flipped relative to the container body with the upper part facing inward and the lower part facing outward to form a lower handle area. This fully utilizes ergonomic principles, ensuring that the user can naturally grip and pull the handle, avoiding difficulties in applying force or discomfort caused by improper positioning of the operating area, thus significantly improving the user experience.

[0019] According to an optional embodiment, the first protrusion has an inward-facing first stop surface, and the second protrusion has an outward-facing second stop surface. In the locked state of the latch assembly, the first stop surface and the second stop surface are substantially abutting each other. This effectively prevents the handle panel from being accidentally pulled out or opened directly by forcibly prying open any gaps, reducing the possibility of misoperation.

[0020] According to an optional embodiment, in the locked state of the latch assembly, the first stop surface and the second stop surface are perpendicular to the pulling direction. This ensures that when the handle panel is in the first state (closed state), the latch assembly provides a direct and effective mechanical constraint, preventing undesirable displacement of the handle panel in the pulling direction and further optimizing the limiting effect.

[0021] In one optional embodiment, the second stop surface is larger than the first stop surface. This makes the limiting effect more stable, thereby extending the service life of the buckle assembly.

[0022] According to an alternative embodiment, the first protrusion has a first bevel on the side opposite to the first stop surface. Thus, the geometry of the bevel provides a natural transition path for the locking process of the latch assembly, reducing the additional force required by the user when closing the handle panel and significantly improving the user experience.

[0023] According to one alternative embodiment, the second protrusion has a second bevel on the side opposite to the second stop surface. Thus, the geometry of the bevel provides a natural transition path for the locking process of the latch assembly, reducing the additional force required by the user when closing the handle panel and significantly improving the user experience.

[0024] According to one optional embodiment, the first inclined surface and the second inclined surface have the same slope. This ensures that when the handle panel is pushed back from the open state to the closed state, the contact between the first and second protrusions has a consistent guiding effect, reducing resistance during the push-back process and allowing the handle panel to return to the closed state smoothly, significantly improving the user experience.

[0025] According to an optional embodiment, the handle panel has a press indicator area to indicate the press position, and two corner areas opposite the press indicator area, with two latching components located in the two corner areas respectively. Thus, the press indicator area provides the user with a clear press position, avoiding misoperation or confusion caused by unclear operating areas, guiding the user to use the correct pressing method to switch the handle panel state, thereby protecting the integrity of the device's function. Simultaneously, the two latching components located in the two corner areas ensure that when the handle panel is in its first state (closed state), the latching components can effectively mechanically restrain the handle panel from both sides, preventing the user from directly opening the handle panel by forcibly prying open any gaps, thus avoiding functional failure.

[0026] According to one optional embodiment, the garment processing device is configured as a household washing machine, a household dryer, or a household washer-dryer. This satisfies the high demands of household users for reliable and convenient operation of the equipment.

[0027] According to one optional embodiment, the pull-out container is configured as a feeding box. Thus, the feeding box, as a key component in garment processing equipment used for dispensing detergent, fabric softener, and other materials, is frequently operated and easily malfunctions due to accidental contact or forceful opening. The snap-fit ​​assembly effectively prevents users from opening the feeding box unintentionally, protecting its functional integrity.

[0028] According to one optional embodiment, the pull-out container is configured as a condensate tray. Thus, the condensate tray, as a key component in a dryer or washer-dryer for collecting condensate, requires regular cleaning by the user and is prone to malfunction or damage due to accidental contact or forceful prying. The snap-fit ​​assembly effectively prevents the user from opening the condensate tray unintentionally, protecting its functional integrity.

[0029] According to an optional embodiment, the two latching assemblies have identical configurations. This ensures that when the handle panel is in its first state (closed state), the latching assemblies provide uniform mechanical constraint on the handle panel from both sides, effectively preventing the handle panel from being accidentally pulled out or opened through a forced gap, thus avoiding malfunction of the equipment. Furthermore, the identical configuration of the latching assemblies allows for standardization of molds and processes during manufacturing, reducing production costs and complexity. Attached Figure Description

[0030] The principles, features, and advantages of this application will be better understood below with reference to the accompanying drawings. The drawings include:

[0031] Figure 1 A front view of a garment handling device according to an exemplary embodiment of this application is shown with the handle panel in a first state;

[0032] Figure 2 A perspective view of a garment handling device according to an exemplary embodiment of this application is shown with the handle panel in a second state;

[0033] Figure 3 A top view of a garment handling apparatus according to an exemplary embodiment of this application is shown with the pull-out container in the pulled-out state;

[0034] Figure 4 A top view of some components of a garment handling device according to an exemplary embodiment of this application is shown with the handle panel in a first state;

[0035] Figure 5 It shows along Figure 4 A sectional view cut by section plane A1-A1;

[0036] Figure 6 It shows Figure 5 A magnified view of part C1;

[0037] Figure 7 It shows along Figure 4 A sectional view cut by section plane B1-B1;

[0038] Figure 8 It shows Figure 7 A magnified view of part D1;

[0039] Figure 9 A top view of some components of a garment handling device according to an exemplary embodiment of this application is shown with the handle panel in a second state;

[0040] Figure 10 It shows along Figure 9 A sectional view cut by section plane A2-A2;

[0041] Figure 11 It shows Figure 10 A magnified view of part C2;

[0042] Figure 12 It shows along Figure 9 A sectional view cut by section plane B2-B2;

[0043] Figure 13 It shows Figure 12 A magnified view of part D2;

[0044] Figure 14 A schematic perspective view of some components of a garment handling device according to an exemplary embodiment of this application is shown with the handle panel in a first state;

[0045] Figure 15 A schematic perspective view of some components of a garment handling device according to an exemplary embodiment of this application is shown with the handle panel in a second state;

[0046] Figure 16 A schematic perspective view of a first snap fastener disposed on a housing of a snap fastener assembly of a garment handling device according to an exemplary embodiment of this application is shown; and

[0047] Figure 17 A schematic perspective view of a second snap fastener provided on a handle panel of a garment handling device according to an exemplary embodiment of this application is shown.

[0048] Figure label:

[0049] 1000: Clothing processing equipment; 900: Housing; 901: Outer side of housing; 911: Gap; 913: Inner side of top wall; 800: Pull-out container; 801: Spring; 810: Container body; 820: Handle panel; 821: Outer side of panel; 822: Cantilever; 823: Press indicator area; 824: Corner area; 700: Buckle assembly; 710: First buckle; 720: Second buckle; 101: Gap; 10: First protrusion; 11: First inclined surface; 12: First stop surface; 20: Second protrusion; 21: Second inclined surface; 22: Second stop surface; 30: Connecting plate; 1001: Pull-out direction; 1002: Axis; P1: First state; P2: Second state; P3: Pull-out state; x: Width direction; y: Height direction; z: Depth direction. Detailed Implementation

[0050] To make the technical problems to be solved, the technical solutions, and the beneficial technical effects of this application clearer, the application will be further described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings and several exemplary embodiments. It should be understood that the specific embodiments described herein are only for explaining this application and are not intended to limit the scope of protection of this application. Various embodiments may share the same view or multiple views for description, but not all features appearing in the same view should be interpreted as features that must be present in an embodiment.

[0051] For ease of understanding, the description provided in the background section of this application may be recalled. One objective of this application is to provide a garment handling device comprising: a housing having an outer shell; and a pull-out container slidably supported on the housing in a pull-out direction, the pull-out container having: a container body; and a handle panel adapted to slide the container body in the pull-out direction, the handle panel having a panel outer shell, the handle panel being configured to have a first state and a second state. In the first state, the panel outer shell is flush with the outer shell and has a gap between them in the pull-out direction to allow the handle panel to move into the second state. In the second state, the handle panel protrudes from the outer shell to allow operation of the handle panel to slide the pull-out container. Thus, on the one hand, the garment handling device maintains a generally flat and uniform appearance in the non-operating first state; on the other hand, the gap in the pull-out direction provides the necessary space for the handle panel to move, thereby achieving a smooth transition of the pull-out container from closed to open.

[0052] Exemplary embodiments of this application will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0053] Figure 1A front view of a garment handling device 1000 according to an exemplary embodiment of this application is shown with the handle panel 820 in a first state P1. Figure 2 A perspective view of a garment handling device 1000 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present application is shown with the handle panel 820 in a second state P2. Figure 3 A top view of a garment processing device 1000 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present application is shown with the pull-out container 800 in the pulled-out state P3.

[0054] like Figure 1 As illustrated, the garment processing device 1000 may be configured as a household washing machine, a household dryer, or a household washer-dryer, or other types of garment processing devices not shown herein. Figure 1 The diagram also schematically illustrates the xyz coordinate system of the garment processing device 1000, where x represents the width direction of the garment processing device 1000, y represents the height direction of the garment processing device 1000 from bottom to top, and z represents the depth direction of the garment processing device 1000 from outside to inside. For clarity, this xyz coordinate system will be used as a basic reference in the subsequent accompanying drawings and descriptions.

[0055] like Figure 1 Combination Figure 2 As shown, the garment processing device 1000 includes a housing 900, which is, for example, the outer shell of a washing machine, and may specifically consist of multiple parts, used to define the space occupied by the garment processing device 1000. The housing 900 has an outer housing 901. Figure 1 An example is shown where the front side of the housing is designated as the outer side of the housing, 901. Figure 2 An example is shown with the front side and the top side of the housing as the outer side of the housing 901.

[0056] like Figure 3 As shown, the garment processing apparatus 1000 also includes a pull-out container 800 slidably supported on the housing 900 along the pull-out direction 1001. The pull-out container 800 is configured here as a dispensing box for storing detergent, fabric softener, and other laundry products. In an embodiment not shown, the pull-out container 800 may also be configured as a condensate box for collecting moisture extracted from the garments during the drying process. Figure 3 Combination Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the pull-out container 800 has a container body 810 and a handle panel 820 adapted to slide the container body 810 along a pull-out direction 1001. The handle panel 820 has an outer panel 821. Here, the pull-out direction 1001 extends along the depth direction z. The handle panel 820 is configured to have a first state P1 and a second state P2. Figure 1 In the first state P shown, the outer side 821 of the panel is flush with the outer side 901 of the housing, in conjunction with the following description Figure 4 and Figure 14 The outer side of the panel 821 and the outer side of the housing 901 have a gap 101 in the pull-out direction 1001. This gap 101 ensures that the handle panel 820 has sufficient room to move, so that it can be inserted. Figure 2 In the second state P2 shown, the handle panel 820 protrudes from the outer side 901 of the housing, allowing the user to operate the handle panel 820 to pull the pull-out container 800 out along the pulling direction 1001. Figure 3 The pulled-out state P3 is shown. It should be understood that, within the scope of this application, the term "flush" refers to a visually consistent and even appearance, and does not mean that the two "flush" elements must be perfectly aligned without any gaps. From Figure 1 It can be seen that on the front side of the garment processing device 1000, the outer side of the panel 821 is flush with the outer side of the housing 901. Figure 1 In other orientations not shown (e.g., the upper and left sides), the outer side 821 of the panel is preferably flush with the outer side 901 of the housing to ensure the overall clean and aesthetically pleasing appearance of the garment handling device 1000. In the embodiment shown in the figures, the movement of the handle panel 820 from the first state P1 to the second state P2 is achieved by flipping the handle panel 820 relative to the container body 810, thereby forming a handle area that allows the user to operate. Preferably, this flipping is performed by the handle panel 820 about an axis 1002 perpendicular to the pull direction 1001. More preferably, the axis 1002 is a horizontal axis, that is, extending along the width direction x. In embodiments not shown, the axis 1002 may also be a vertical axis, that is, extending along the height direction y. Even more preferably, the handle panel 820 is flipped about the axis 1002 relative to the container body 810 with the upper part facing inward and the lower part facing outward to form the lower handle area (also as... Figure 2 (As shown). In an embodiment not shown, the movement of the handle panel 820 from the first state P1 to the second state P2 is achieved by translating the handle panel 820, for example, translating it inward along the pull direction 1001 or the depth direction z by the allowable gap 101. In another embodiment not shown, the gap 101 is not only as described below. Figure 4 and Figure 14 The device is not located on the top of the garment processing equipment 1000, but also on the side of the garment processing equipment 1000, for example, on the left side when facing the garment processing equipment 1000.

[0057] Figure 4 A top view of some components of a garment handling device 1000 according to an exemplary embodiment of this application is shown with the handle panel 820 in a first state P1. Figure 5 It shows along Figure 4A sectional view cut by section plane A1-A1; Figure 6 It shows Figure 5 A magnified view of part C1; Figure 7 It shows along Figure 4 A sectional view cut by section plane B1-B1; Figure 8 It shows Figure 7 A magnified view of part D1; Figure 9 A top view of some components of a garment handling device 1000 according to an exemplary embodiment of this application is shown with the handle panel 820 in the second state P2. Figure 10 It shows along Figure 9 A sectional view cut by section plane A2-A2; Figure 11 It shows Figure 10 A magnified view of part C2; Figure 12 It shows along Figure 9 A sectional view cut by section plane B2-B2; Figure 13 It shows Figure 12 A magnified view of part D2; Figure 14 A schematic perspective view of some components of a garment handling device 1000 according to an exemplary embodiment of this application is shown with the handle panel 820 in a first state P1. Figure 15 A schematic perspective view of some components of a garment handling device 1000 according to an exemplary embodiment of this application is shown with the handle panel 820 in a second state P2. Figure 16 A schematic perspective view of a first snap fastener 710 of a snap fastener assembly 700 of a garment processing device 1000 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present application is shown. Figure 17 A schematic perspective view of a second snap fastener 720 of a snap fastener assembly 700 of a garment handling device 1000 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present application is shown.

[0058] like Figures 4 to 13 As shown, the pull-out container 800 has a latching assembly 700 disposed between the housing 900 and the handle panel 820. When the handle panel 820 is in the first state P1, the latching assembly 700 locks the handle panel 820 to the housing 900 (e.g., Figure 6 and Figure 8 As shown, when the handle panel 820 moves from the first state P1 (e.g., translation or flipping as described above) to the second state P2, this movement of the handle panel 820 unlocks the handle panel 820 from the housing 900, thereby allowing the user to operate the handle panel 820 to pull the pull-out container 800 out along the pull-out direction 1001. Figure 3 The pulled-out state P3 is shown.

[0059] Combination Figures 15 to 17The latch assembly 700 may include a first latch 710 disposed on the housing 900 and a second latch 720 disposed on the handle panel 820. The first latch 710 and the second latch 720 are locked together in a first state P1 and unlocked together in a second state P2. In a preferred embodiment, the first latch 710 is integrally formed on the housing 900, and the second latch 720 is also integrally formed on the body of the handle panel 820 (for example, in the case where a decorative panel is additionally bonded to the body of the handle panel 820). This allows for manufacturing using the same material (such as engineering plastics), reducing manufacturing costs, increasing strength, and reducing the risk of deformation and damage during use.

[0060] like Figure 14 As schematically shown, the pull-out container 800 has a handle panel 820 and (in Figure 14 (Schematably shown as a dashed cube) The container body 810 between (in) Figure 14 Spring 801 is schematically shown as a dashed column. In another embodiment, spring 801 may also be disposed between handle panel 820 and housing 900. Figure 14 The diagram also schematically illustrates a press indicator area 823 on the handle panel 820. When the user presses this press indicator area 823, it compresses a spring 801 behind the handle panel 820, thereby compressing the spring 801 and, upon release, applying a spring force to the handle panel 820 to bring it into the second state P2. In embodiments not specifically shown in the figures, the pull-out container 800 may have a push-pull locking assembly located between the handle panel 820 and the container body 810, which allows the handle panel 820 to switch between the first state P1 and the second state P2. The push-type locking component is designed to switch states through continuous pressing. Its basic working principle is that when the handle panel 820 is in the first state P1, the user presses the handle panel 820 for the first time, the push-type locking component unlocks and releases the handle panel 820, causing it to enter the second state P2 under the action of elasticity; when the user needs to close it, he pushes the handle panel 820 back and presses it again, the push-type locking component locks it again, keeping the handle panel 820 in the first state P1.

[0061] from Figure 14 It can be seen that when the handle panel 820 is in the first state P1, the buckle assembly 700 is in the locked state. At this time, the buckle assembly 700 is covered by the handle panel 820 and the housing 900 and is not visible from the outside of the garment processing device 1000.

[0062] from Figure 14 It can also be seen that the housing 900 has a notch 911 suitable for accommodating the handle panel 820. Figure 14In the middle, since the handle panel 820 is located within the gap 911, the gap 911 is basically covered by the handle panel 820 and the housing 900. Combined Figures 15 to 17 The first latch 710 and the second latch 720 are located within the gap 911 and are respectively constructed on the inner sides of the housing 900 and the handle panel 820 facing each other. In the embodiment shown in the figures, the first latch 710 is constructed on the inner side 913 of the top wall of the housing 900 facing downward toward the handle panel 820 (e.g., Figure 15 and Figure 16 As shown), the inner side 913 of the top wall of the housing 900 is also used to limit the gap 911, while the second latch 720 is constructed on the cantilever 822 of the handle panel 820 facing upward toward the housing 900 (as shown). Figure 15 and Figure 17 As shown in the figure, the cantilever 822 of the handle panel 820 (preferably integrally formed with its body) extends inward (preferably along the depth direction z). Besides the embodiment shown in the figure where the first latch 710 and the second latch 720 are respectively constructed on the inner sides of the housing 900 and the handle panel 820 facing each other in the height direction y, in an embodiment not shown, the first latch 710 and the second latch 720 may also be constructed on the inner sides of the housing 900 and the handle panel 820 facing each other in the width direction x or other directions, as long as these two inner sides of the housing 900 and the handle panel 820 move away from each other when the handle panel 820 is flipped to achieve unlocking.

[0063] like Figures 15 to 17As shown, the first latch 710 includes at least one (two in this example) first protrusion 10, and the second latch 720 includes at least one (two in this example) second protrusion 20. In the preferred embodiment shown in the figures, the second latch 720 further includes a connecting plate 30 connecting the two second protrusions 20. In the locked state of the latch assembly 700, the first protrusion 10 and the second protrusion 20 are limited relative to each other in the pull direction 1001, that is, they are substantially unable to move relative to each other in the pull direction 1001. Specifically, the first protrusion 10 has an inward first stop surface 12, and the second protrusion 20 has an outward second stop surface 22. In the preferred embodiment shown in the figures, the connecting plate 30 is additionally formed as part of the second stop surface 22 on the side facing the first protrusion 10. In the locked state of the latch assembly 700, the first stop surface 12 and the second stop surface 22 are substantially abutting each other. It should be understood that, within the scope of this application, the term "basically abutting" means that the two parts are abutting to a certain extent, but not in a completely rigid lock. Instead, necessary movement gaps or deformation space are left to allow the first protrusion 10 and the second protrusion 20 to unlock during the transition of the handle panel 820 from the first state P1 to the second state P2. In the preferred embodiment shown in the drawings, the first protrusion 10 has an increased thickness on one side of the first stop surface 12 (especially at the connection), and the second protrusion 20 has an increased thickness on one side of the second stop surface 22 (especially at the connection). In the locked state of the latch assembly 700, i.e., in the first state P1 of the handle panel 820, the first stop surface 12 and the second stop surface 22 are perpendicular to the pulling direction 1001. Figure 6 and Figure 8 In the illustrated embodiment, the first stop surface 12 and the second stop surface 22 extend in the xy plane. From Figure 15 It can be seen that the first protrusion 10 has a first inclined surface 11 on the side opposite to the first stop surface 12, and the second protrusion 20 has a second inclined surface 21 on the side opposite to the second stop surface 22. Preferably, the first inclined surface 11 and the second inclined surface 21 have the same slope.

[0064] exist Figure 14 In the illustrated embodiment, the handle panel 820 has a latching assembly 700 in each of its two corner regions 824 opposite to the press indication area 823. Figure 17 The example illustrates a second snap 720 of a snap-fit ​​assembly 700 in one of the corner regions 824. These two snap-fit ​​assemblies 700 preferably have the same configuration. This avoids uneven stress distribution caused by structural differences between the two snap-fit ​​assemblies 700 and reduces the risk of damage to a single-sided snap-fit ​​assembly due to overload, thereby optimizing the reliability of the garment handling device 1000 during long-term use.

[0065] Although specific embodiments have been described above, these embodiments are not intended to limit the scope of this application, even when only a single embodiment is described with respect to a particular feature. The feature examples provided in this application are intended to be illustrative and not limiting, unless explicitly stated otherwise. In practice, multiple features may be combined with each other as needed and where technically feasible. Various substitutions, modifications, and alterations are also conceived without departing from the spirit and scope of this application.

Claims

1. A garment processing device, characterized in that, The garment processing equipment (1000) includes: A housing (900), the housing (900) having a housing outer side (901); and A pull-out container (800) slidably supported on the housing (900) along the pull-out direction (1001), the pull-out container (800) having: container body (810); and A handle panel (820) adapted to slide the container body (810) along the pull-out direction (1001), the handle panel (820) having a panel outer side (821), the handle panel (820) being configured to have a first state and a second state, in the first state, the panel outer side (821) being flush with the outer side of the housing (901) and having a gap (101) between them in the pull-out direction (1001) to allow the handle panel (820) to move to enter the second state, in the second state, the handle panel (820) protruding from the outer side of the housing (901) to allow operation of the handle panel (820) to slide the pullable container (800).

2. The garment processing equipment according to claim 1, characterized in that, The pull-out container (800) has a snap-fit ​​assembly (700) disposed between the housing (900) and the handle panel (820) and configured to lock the handle panel (820) to the housing (900) when the handle panel (820) is in the first state, and to unlock the handle panel (820) from the first state to the second state by moving the handle panel (820) to allow the pull-out container (800) to be pulled out.

3. The garment processing equipment according to claim 2, characterized in that, The pull-out container (800) has a spring (801) disposed between the handle panel (820) and the container body (810) or between the handle panel (820) and the housing (900), the spring (801) being configured to apply a spring force to the handle panel (820) by being pressed, thereby causing the handle panel (820) to move; and / or The pull-out container (800) has a push-type locking component disposed between the handle panel (820) and the container body (810), the push-type locking component being configured to allow the handle panel (820) to switch between a first state and a second state.

4. The garment processing equipment according to claim 3, characterized in that, The handle panel (820) is configured to flip relative to the container body (810) to form a handle area; and / or The latch assembly (700) includes a first latch (710) disposed on the housing (900) and a second latch (720) disposed on the handle panel (820), wherein the first latch (710) and the second latch (720) are configured to lock each other in a first state and unlock each other in a second state.

5. The garment processing equipment according to claim 4, characterized in that, The handle panel (820) is configured to rotate about an axis (1002) perpendicular to the pull-out direction (1001); and / or In the locked state, the snap-fit ​​assembly (700) is configured to be invisible from the outside of the garment handling device (1000); and / or The housing (900) has a recess (911) adapted to accommodate the handle panel (820), wherein the first latch (710) and the second latch (720) are respectively constructed in the recess (911 on the inner sides of the housing (900) and the handle panel (820) facing each other and moving away from each other when the handle panel (820) is flipped.

6. The garment processing equipment according to claim 5, characterized in that, The axis (1002) is a horizontal axis; and / or The first latch (710) is constructed on the inner side (913) of the top wall of the housing (900) defining the notch (911); and / or The handle panel (820) has an inwardly extending cantilever (822), on which the second latch (720) is constructed; and / or The first latch (710) includes at least one first protrusion (10), and the second latch (720) includes at least one second protrusion (20). In the locked state of the latch assembly (700), the first protrusion (10) and the second protrusion (20) are mutually limited in the pulling direction (1001).

7. The garment processing equipment according to claim 6, characterized in that, The handle panel (820) is configured to be flipped relative to the container body (810) with the upper part facing inward and the lower part facing outward to form the lower handle area; and / or The first protrusion (10) has an inward first stop surface (12), and the second protrusion (20) has an outward second stop surface (22). In the locked state of the latching assembly (700), the first stop surface (12) and the second stop surface (22) are substantially in contact with each other.

8. The garment processing equipment according to claim 7, characterized in that, In the locked state of the latch assembly (700), the first stop surface (12) and the second stop surface (22) are perpendicular to the pulling direction (1001); and / or The second stop surface (22) is larger than the first stop surface (12).

9. The garment processing equipment according to claim 8, characterized in that, The first protrusion (10) has a first inclined surface (11) on the side opposite to the first stop surface (12); and / or The second protrusion (20) has a second inclined surface (21) on the side opposite to the second stop surface (22).

10. The garment processing equipment according to claim 9, characterized in that, The first inclined plane (11) and the second inclined plane (21) have the same slope.

11. The garment processing apparatus according to any one of claims 2 to 10, characterized in that, The handle panel (820) has a press indicator area (823) to indicate a press position, and two corner areas (824) opposite to the press indicator area (823), with two latching assemblies (700) respectively located in the two corner areas (824); and / or The garment processing equipment (1000) is configured as a household washing machine, a household dryer, or a household washer-dryer; and / or The pull-out container (800) is configured as a feeding box or a condensate box.

12. The garment processing equipment according to claim 11, characterized in that, The two snap-fit ​​components (700) have the same configuration as each other.

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