Laundry condensing bead dispenser for washing machine and washing machine

Abstract

The application relates to the technical field of washing machines, and discloses a washing bead dispenser for a washing machine. The washing machine comprises a door body and an inner drum, and the washing bead dispenser comprises a storage bin arranged on the door body, the storage bin defining a containing space for washing beads, and the containing space being provided with a discharge port; a feeding pipeline comprising a first open end and a second open end, the first open end being communicated with the discharge port, and the second open end being communicated with the inner drum, so that the washing beads can enter the inner drum from the storage bin through the feeding pipeline; and an agitating mechanism arranged in the containing space, the agitating mechanism being located at the discharge port and being capable of moving relative to the discharge port to push the washing beads in the containing space into the feeding pipeline. The agitating mechanism arranged at the discharge port in the containing space can push the washing beads to enter the feeding pipeline in an orderly manner, so that the washing beads are prevented from being blocked at the discharge port, the feeding efficiency of the washing beads is improved, and the automatic feeding effect of the washing beads is improved. The application further discloses a washing machine.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of washing machine technology, specifically to a laundry pod dispenser and a washing machine. Background Technology

[0002] Currently, washing machine dispensers typically only dispense regular detergents like liquid and powder, and cannot store or dispense laundry pods. Laundry pods must be tossed directly into the washing machine drum. Traditional washing machine dispensers no longer fully meet user needs. When using laundry pods, most users simply pick them up with their hands and drop them into the drum; if their hands are wet, the pods risk dissolving.

[0003] The related technology incorporates a pod dispensing device within a accommodating cavity for holding multiple pods, allowing for the simultaneous insertion of multiple pods. One end of the dispensing channel connects to the accommodating cavity, while the other end connects to the washing chamber. The cross-sectional dimensions of the dispensing channel are limited to allow only one pod to pass through at a time. By incorporating the dispensing channel and a baffle, it is ensured that only one pod is dispensed into the washing chamber at a time. This simplifies the dispensing process, allowing for the storage of multiple pods and the dispensing of single pods, eliminating the need to manually remove pods and place them into the clothing inlet each time. Furthermore, the pod dispensing device is located on the door, facilitating direct dispensing of pods into the washing chamber.

[0004] In the process of implementing the embodiments of this disclosure, at least the following problems were found in the related art:

[0005] In related technologies, multiple beads are stored in the containment cavity and enter the dispensing channel directly through the inlet of the dispensing channel. This can easily lead to the accumulation of beads at the inlet of the dispensing channel, causing blockage and affecting the efficiency of the beads entering the dispensing channel, thus affecting the dispensing effect of the beads.

[0006] It should be noted that the information disclosed in the background section above is only used to enhance the understanding of the background of this application, and therefore may include information that does not constitute prior art known to those skilled in the art. Utility Model Content

[0007] To provide a basic understanding of some aspects of the disclosed embodiments, a brief summary is given below. This summary is not intended as a general commentary, nor is it intended to identify key / important components or describe the scope of protection of these embodiments, but rather as a prelude to the detailed description that follows.

[0008] This disclosure provides a laundry pod dispenser and a washing machine for use in a washing machine, thereby improving the efficiency of laundry pod dispensing.

[0009] According to a first aspect of the present invention, a laundry pod dispenser for a washing machine is provided. The washing machine includes a door and an inner drum. The laundry pod dispenser includes: a storage compartment disposed in the door, the storage compartment defining a space for holding laundry pods, the space having a discharge port; a dispensing pipe including a first open end and a second open end, the first open end communicating with the discharge port and the second open end communicating with the inner drum, so that laundry pods can enter the inner drum from the storage compartment through the dispensing pipe; and an agitation mechanism disposed in the space, the agitation mechanism being located at the discharge port and capable of moving relative to the discharge port to push the laundry pods in the space into the dispensing pipe.

[0010] Optionally, the laundry pod dispenser for the washing machine further includes: a first disc body, which is disposed at the outlet and located between the agitation mechanism and the dispensing pipe, and has a dispensing port that connects the receiving space and the dispensing pipe. The size of the dispensing port is adapted to the size of a single laundry pod to facilitate the dispensing of individual laundry pods.

[0011] Optionally, the laundry pod dispenser for the washing machine further includes: a second disc body, which is disposed at the outlet, located between the agitation mechanism and the first disc body, and is rotatable relative to the first disc body. The second disc body has multiple pre-dispensing ports, each of which is sized to fit the size of a single laundry pod and can accommodate a single laundry pod, so that the agitation mechanism can push the laundry pods into the multiple pre-dispensing ports respectively. During the rotation of the second disc body, each pre-dispensing port can correspond to the dispensing port of the first disc body, so that the laundry pods in the multiple pre-dispensing ports can enter the dispensing pipe through the dispensing port.

[0012] Optionally, the agitation mechanism includes: a rotating shaft extending vertically along the radial direction of the discharge port; and multiple blades connected to the rotating shaft, extending radially along the discharge port and arranged circumferentially at intervals, wherein the gap between adjacent blades can accommodate at least one laundry detergent pod, and the rotating shaft can drive the multiple blades to rotate synchronously.

[0013] Optionally, the rotating shaft is rotatably connected to the second disc, and multiple pre-dispensing ports are arranged circumferentially at intervals. The distance between the lower end face of each blade and the upper surface of the second disc is less than the height of the laundry pod. The rotating shaft can drive multiple blades to rotate relative to the second disc to push the laundry pod into the pre-dispensing port.

[0014] Optionally, the second disc is disposed inside the discharge port, and the surface of the second disc facing the accommodating space is flush with the inner wall surface of the storage compartment.

[0015] Optionally, the detergent dispenser for a washing machine further includes: a first drive mechanism, drivenly connected to the agitation mechanism and configured to drive the agitation mechanism to move; and a switch mechanism, drivenly connected to the first drive mechanism and configured to drive the first drive mechanism to operate.

[0016] Optionally, the laundry pod dispenser further includes a second drive mechanism, which is connected to the switch mechanism and the second disc, and is configured to drive the second disc to rotate, wherein the second disc rotates at a different speed than the agitation mechanism.

[0017] Optionally, the laundry pod dispenser for the washing machine further includes: a baffle plate disposed on the side of the dispensing port facing the receiving space, the baffle plate being able to block the dispensing port by its orthogonal projection on the first tray body, and a gap existing between the baffle plate and the dispensing port, the gap being able to allow laundry pods to pass through.

[0018] Optionally, the second disc is located between the barrier plate and the first disc.

[0019] Optionally, the storage compartment is also provided with a feed inlet, and the laundry pod dispenser also includes a cover that is provided at the feed inlet to open or close the feed inlet.

[0020] According to a second aspect of the present invention, a washing machine is provided, comprising: an inner drum having an opening; a door covering the opening of the inner drum; and a washing pod dispenser for a washing machine as described in any of the preceding claims, disposed on the door, with a second opening end of the dispensing pipe communicating with the inner drum.

[0021] The washing machine pod dispenser and washing machine provided in this disclosure can achieve the following technical effects:

[0022] Laundry detergent pods are placed in the storage compartment and enter the dispensing pipe through the outlet, then into the inner drum. An agitation mechanism is installed at the outlet within the storage compartment. The movement of the agitation mechanism relative to the outlet promotes the orderly entry of the laundry detergent pods into the dispensing pipe, thereby preventing blockage at the outlet, improving the dispensing efficiency, and enhancing the automatic dispensing effect of the laundry detergent pods.

[0023] The above general description and the description below are exemplary and illustrative only and are not intended to limit this application. Attached Figure Description

[0024] One or more embodiments are illustrated by way of example with reference to the accompanying drawings. These illustrations and drawings do not constitute a limitation on the embodiments. Elements having the same reference numerals in the drawings are shown as similar elements. The drawings are not to be scaled. And wherein:

[0025] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the cooperation structure between a laundry pod dispenser for a washing machine, the door, and the inner drum, provided in an embodiment of this disclosure.

[0026] Figure 2 This is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of the cooperation structure between a laundry pod dispenser for a washing machine, the door, and the inner drum, provided in an embodiment of this disclosure.

[0027] Figure 3 This is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of the cooperation structure between a washing machine pod dispenser, the door, and the inner drum, provided in another embodiment of this disclosure.

[0028] Figure 4 This is an exploded view of a laundry pod dispenser for a washing machine provided in an embodiment of this disclosure.

[0029] Figure label:

[0030] 10: Storage compartment; 101: First inner wall; 102: Second inner wall; 11: Accommodation space; 12: Discharge port; 13: Inlet port; 14: Cover;

[0031] 20: Delivery pipe; 21: First open end; 22: Second open end;

[0032] 30: Agitator; 31: Shaft; 32: Blade;

[0033] 40: First tray; 41: Dispensing port; 42: Second tray; 43: Pre-dispensing port;

[0034] 50: Barrier plate;

[0035] 60: First drive mechanism; 61: First gear;

[0036] 70: Switch mechanism; 71: Knob handle; 72: First transmission gear; 73: Second transmission gear; 74: Third transmission gear;

[0037] 80: Door body; 81: Inner cylinder. Detailed Implementation

[0038] To provide a more detailed understanding of the features and technical content of the embodiments of this disclosure, the implementation of the embodiments of this disclosure will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. The accompanying drawings are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the embodiments of this disclosure. In the following technical description, for ease of explanation, several details are used to provide a full understanding of the disclosed embodiments. However, one or more embodiments may still be implemented without these details. In other cases, well-known structures and devices may be simplified in their depiction to simplify the drawings.

[0039] The terms "first," "second," etc., used in the specification, claims, and accompanying drawings of this disclosure are used to distinguish similar objects and are not necessarily used to describe a specific order or sequence. It should be understood that such data can be interchanged where appropriate for the embodiments of this disclosure described herein. Furthermore, the terms "comprising" and "having," and any variations thereof, are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion.

[0040] In this disclosure, the terms "upper," "lower," "inner," "middle," "outer," "front," and "rear," etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. These terms are primarily for better description of the embodiments of this disclosure and their implementations, and are not intended to limit the indicated devices, elements, or components to having a specific orientation, or to require them to be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Furthermore, some of the aforementioned terms may be used to indicate other meanings besides orientation or positional relationship; for example, the term "upper" may in some cases indicate a dependency or connection relationship. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of these terms in the embodiments of this disclosure according to the specific circumstances.

[0041] Furthermore, the terms "set up," "connect," and "fix" should be interpreted broadly. For example, "connection" can be a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral structure; it can be a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; it can be a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium, or it can be an internal connection between two devices, components, or parts. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in the embodiments of this disclosure according to the specific circumstances.

[0042] Unless otherwise stated, the term "multiple" means two or more.

[0043] In this embodiment of the disclosure, the character " / " indicates that the objects before and after it are in an "or" relationship. For example, A / B means: A or B.

[0044] The term "and / or" describes an association between objects, indicating that three relationships can exist. For example, A and / or B means: A or B, or A and B.

[0045] It should be noted that, unless otherwise specified, the embodiments and features described in the present disclosure can be combined with each other.

[0046] Combination Figure 1-4As shown, this embodiment of the present disclosure provides a laundry pod dispenser for a washing machine. The washing machine includes a door 80 and an inner drum 81. The laundry pod dispenser includes a storage compartment 10, a dispensing pipe 20, and an agitation mechanism 30. The storage compartment 10 is located in the door 80 and defines a space 11 for holding laundry pods. The space 11 has a discharge port 12. The dispensing pipe 20 includes a first open end 21 and a second open end 22. The first open end 21 communicates with the discharge port 12, and the second open end 22 communicates with the inner drum 81, so that laundry pods can enter the inner drum 81 from the storage compartment 10 through the dispensing pipe 20. The agitation mechanism 30 is located in the space 11 and at the discharge port 12. The agitation mechanism can move relative to the discharge port 12 to push the laundry pods in the space 11 into the dispensing pipe 20.

[0047] The laundry pod dispenser for washing machines provided in this embodiment solves the problems of inconvenient storage and use of laundry pods. The laundry pods are placed in the storage compartment 10's receiving space 11 and can enter the dispensing pipe 20 through the discharge port 12, and then into the inner drum 81. An agitation mechanism 30 is provided at the discharge port 12 within the receiving space 11. The movement of the agitation mechanism 30 relative to the discharge port 12 promotes the orderly entry of the laundry pods into the dispensing pipe 20, thereby preventing blockage at the discharge port 12, improving the dispensing efficiency, and enhancing the automatic dispensing effect of the laundry pods.

[0048] Meanwhile, placing the storage compartment 10 in the door 80 frees up more space inside the control panel of the washing machine, improving space utilization.

[0049] Optionally, combined Figure 1 As shown, the storage compartment 10 includes a first inner wall 101 and a second inner wall 102 disposed opposite to each other. The accommodating space 11 is located between the first inner wall 101 and the second inner wall 102. Along the direction toward the discharge port 12, the distance between the first inner wall 101 and the second inner wall 102 gradually decreases. The discharge port 12 is located between the lower edge of the first inner wall 101 and the lower edge of the second inner wall 102.

[0050] The first inner wall 101 and the second inner wall 102 of the storage chamber 10 form a guide slope inclined towards the outlet 12, which can better guide the laundry pods to the outlet 12 and into the delivery pipe 20. The first inner wall 101 and the second inner wall 102 can extend in an arc shape. The arc-shaped wall surface can slow down the falling speed of the laundry pods, which can not only guide them but also better prevent clogging.

[0051] Optionally, combined Figure 1-4As shown, the laundry pod dispenser for the washing machine also includes a first disc 40. The first disc 40 is located at the discharge port 12, between the agitation mechanism 30 and the dispensing pipe 20, and has a dispensing port 41 that connects the receiving space 11 and the dispensing pipe 20. The size of the dispensing port 41 is adapted to the size of a single laundry pod to facilitate the dispensing of individual laundry pods.

[0052] A first disc 40 is provided at the discharge port 12, and a dispensing port 41 is provided on the first disc 40, so that laundry detergent pods can enter the dispensing pipe 20 only through the dispensing port 41. The size of the dispensing port 41 is adapted to the size of a single laundry detergent pod, which can realize the dispensing of laundry detergent pods individually and improve the dispensing effect of laundry detergent pods.

[0053] The first disc 40 is placed over the discharge port 12. The first disc 40 can be sealed to the wall of the storage chamber 10 at the discharge port 12, or there can be a gap between the first disc 40 and the wall of the storage chamber 10. In the direction perpendicular to the radial direction of the discharge port 12, the gap between the first disc 40 and the wall of the storage chamber 10 should be smaller than the size of a single laundry detergent pod.

[0054] Optionally, the inner diameter of the dispensing pipe 20 is greater than or equal to the opening size of the dispensing port 41. The inner diameter of the dispensing pipe 20 is large enough to accommodate at least one laundry detergent pod, ensuring that the laundry detergent pod passes through the dispensing port 41 and then smoothly enters the inner drum 81 through the dispensing pipe 20.

[0055] Optionally, the dispensing pipe 20 includes a straight section and a curved section. The straight section extends vertically along the radial direction of the outlet, with a first open end 21 located on the straight section. The curved section connects to the straight section, forming an arc-shaped bend towards the inner drum, with a second open end 22 located on the curved section. The dispensing pipe 20, with its straight and curved sections, effectively introduces laundry pods into the inner drum 81, while the arc-shaped bend also provides a buffer for the laundry pods.

[0056] Optionally, combined Figure 2 and Figure 4 As shown, the laundry pod dispenser for the washing machine also includes a second disc 42. The second disc 42 is located at the discharge port 12, between the agitation mechanism 30 and the first disc 40, and can rotate relative to the first disc 40. The second disc 42 has multiple pre-dispensing ports 43, each of which is sized to fit a single laundry pod and can accommodate a single laundry pod, so that the agitation mechanism 30 can push the laundry pods into the multiple pre-dispensing ports 43 respectively. During the rotation of the second disc 42, each pre-dispensing port 43 can correspond to the dispensing port 41 of the first disc 40, so that the laundry pods in the multiple pre-dispensing ports 43 can enter the dispensing pipe 20 through the dispensing port 41.

[0057] Along the direction from the storage compartment 10 into the inner drum 81, the agitation mechanism, the second disc 42, the first disc 40, and the dispensing pipe 20 are arranged sequentially. Multiple pre-dispensing ports 43 are provided on the second disc 42, forming a preparatory position for dispensing the laundry pods. The agitation mechanism first pushes the laundry pods into the multiple pre-dispensing ports 43 for storage. As the second disc 42 rotates relative to the first disc 40, each pre-dispensing port 43 aligns with the dispensing port 41 of the first disc 40. When a pre-dispensing port 43 aligns with the dispensing port 41, the laundry pod falls into the dispensing pipe 20 and enters the inner drum 81.

[0058] The thickness of the second disc 42 is greater than or equal to the size of the laundry pod, so that the pre-dispensing opening 43 can accommodate a single laundry pod. After the laundry pod falls into the pre-dispensing opening 43, the highest point of the laundry pod inside the pre-dispensing opening 43 is equal to or lower than the upper edge of the pre-dispensing opening 43.

[0059] This application uses a circular discharge port 12, a thin-walled disc 40, and a thick-walled disc 42 as an example. The first disc 40 and the second disc 42 are concentrically arranged within the discharge port 12. The second disc 42 has three pre-dispensing ports 43, distributed circumferentially on the second disc 42. Laundry detergent pods are pushed into the pre-dispensing ports 43. The second disc 42 rotates, and when the pre-dispensing ports 43 are aligned with the dispensing port 41, the laundry detergent pods at the pre-dispensing ports 43 rotate into the dispensing port 41, and then enter the inner drum 81 through the dispensing pipe 20 for washing clothes.

[0060] Optionally, combined Figure 2 As shown, the second disc 42 is located inside the discharge port 12, and the surface of the second disc 42 facing the accommodating space 11 is flush with the inner wall surface of the storage chamber 10.

[0061] The surface of the second disc 42 facing the accommodating space 11 is flush with the inner wall surface of the storage compartment 10, which can avoid obstructing the laundry detergent pods and can more effectively push the laundry detergent pods into the dispensing pipe 20 when the agitation mechanism 30 is in motion.

[0062] Optionally, combined Figure 4 As shown, the laundry pod dispenser for the washing machine also includes a baffle plate 50. The baffle plate 50 is located on the side of the dispensing port 41 facing the receiving space 11. The oblique projection of the baffle plate 50 onto the first tray 40 can block the dispensing port 41. There is a gap between the baffle plate 50 and the dispensing port 41, which can accommodate the laundry pods to pass through. When the laundry pod dispenser includes a second tray 42, the second tray 42 is located between the baffle plate 50 and the first tray 40.

[0063] By setting the baffle plate 50, a buffer is formed at the dispensing port 41 to prevent the laundry pods from entering the dispensing port 41 directly. Under the push of the agitation mechanism 30, the laundry pods enter the dispensing port 41 through the gap between the baffle plate 50 and the dispensing port 41, which can better ensure the individual and orderly dispensing of the laundry pods.

[0064] When the laundry pod dispenser includes a second disc 42, the second disc 42 is located between the baffle plate 50 and the first disc 40. The baffle plate 50 is located between the agitation mechanism 30 and the second disc 42. A certain gap is left between the agitation mechanism 30 and the baffle plate 50 to avoid affecting the normal movement of the agitation mechanism 30.

[0065] Optionally, combined Figure 3-4 As shown, the agitation mechanism 30 includes a rotating shaft 31 and multiple blades 32. The rotating shaft 31 extends vertically along the radial direction of the discharge port 12; the multiple blades 32 are respectively connected to the rotating shaft 31, extend radially along the discharge port 12 and are arranged at intervals in the circumferential direction, and the gap between adjacent blades 32 can accommodate at least one laundry detergent pod. The rotating shaft 31 can drive the multiple blades 32 to rotate synchronously.

[0066] The agitation mechanism 30, consisting of a rotating shaft 31 and multiple blades 32, can rotate relative to the discharge port 12. Multiple adjacent blades 32 form multiple receiving areas for laundry pods. By rotating the multiple blades 32 synchronously, the laundry pods in each receiving area can be moved simultaneously, and the laundry pods in each receiving area can be dispensed in an orderly manner, improving the dispensing efficiency of laundry pods.

[0067] Optionally, combined Figure 2 and Figure 4 As shown, when the laundry pod dispenser includes a second disc 42, the rotating shaft 31 is rotatably connected to the second disc 42, and multiple pre-dispensing ports 43 are arranged circumferentially. The distance between the lower end face of each paddle 32 and the upper surface of the second disc 42 is less than the height of the laundry pod. The rotating shaft 31 can drive the multiple paddles 32 to rotate relative to the second disc 42 to push the laundry pod into the pre-dispensing port 43.

[0068] The rotating shaft 31 is rotatably connected to the second disc 42. Multiple blades 32 are connected to the rotating shaft 31, extending radially along the discharge port 12 and arranged at intervals along the circumference. Simultaneously, multiple pre-dispensing ports 43 are also arranged at intervals along the circumference. This allows the blades 32 to more accurately and quickly push laundry detergent pods into the pre-dispensing ports 43, improving the dispensing efficiency. The distance between the lower end face of each blade 32 and the upper surface of the second disc 42 is less than the height of the laundry detergent pod, ensuring the pushing effect of the blades 32 on the laundry detergent pods, enabling the blades 32 to push the laundry detergent pods into the pre-dispensing ports 43.

[0069] Optionally, when the laundry pod dispenser includes a second disc 42, the agitation mechanism 30 rotates at a different speed than the second disc 42.

[0070] The agitation mechanism 30 rotates relative to the second disc 42, pushing laundry detergent pods into the pre-dispensing port 43. The second disc 42 rotates relative to the first disc 40, aligning the pre-dispensing port 43 with the dispensing port 41. The agitation mechanism 30 and the second disc 42 rotate at different speeds, allowing them to rotate relative to each other, ensuring that the agitation mechanism 30 can push the laundry detergent pods into the pre-dispensing port 43.

[0071] The stirring mechanism 30 and the second disc 42 can be driven separately by independent switching mechanisms 70 to achieve different rotational speeds. Alternatively, they can be driven by the same switching mechanism 70, with different rotational speeds achieved by setting up a speed-changing transmission device.

[0072] Optionally, the detergent pod dispenser for the washing machine further includes a first drive mechanism 60 and a switching mechanism 70. The first drive mechanism 60 is drivenly connected to the agitation mechanism 30 and configured to drive the agitation mechanism 30 to move; the switching mechanism 70 is drivenly connected to the first drive mechanism 60 and configured to drive the first drive mechanism 60 to operate.

[0073] The first drive mechanism 60 is connected to both the agitation mechanism 30 and the switch mechanism 70. By activating the switch mechanism 70, the first drive mechanism 60 is driven to move the agitation mechanism 30, thereby pushing the laundry detergent pods through the outlet 12 into the dispensing pipe 20.

[0074] Optionally, combined Figure 3-4 As shown, when the stirring mechanism 30 includes a rotating shaft 31 and multiple blades 32, the first drive mechanism 60 includes a first gear 61, which is connected to the rotating shaft 31 to drive the stirring mechanism to move.

[0075] The agitation mechanism is driven by a gear transmission structure, which is simple, easy to implement, and low in cost. The rotating shaft 31 can be coaxially arranged with the first gear 61, passing through the center of the first gear 61. Rotation of the first gear 61 drives the rotating shaft 31 to rotate synchronously, thereby rotating the paddle 32 and propelling the laundry pods. A transmission gear can also be provided between the first gear 61 and the switching mechanism 70; the transmission effect of the transmission gear can improve the driving efficiency.

[0076] Optionally, combined Figure 1-4As shown, the switch mechanism 70 is a rotary switch, which includes a rotary handle 71. The rotary handle 71 is located on the outside of the door body 80. The side of the rotary handle 71 facing the inside of the door body 80 is connected to a first transmission gear 72, which is connected to the first gear 61 in a transmission connection.

[0077] The rotary handle 71, when rotated, drives the first transmission gear 72 to rotate, which in turn drives the first gear 61 to rotate. The rotary switch is connected to the first drive mechanism 60 (e.g., the first gear 61), allowing for convenient activation through rotation and mechanical transmission. Laundry detergent pods are placed in the storage compartment 10. During use, turning the rotary handle 71 from the outside of the door 80 drives the first drive mechanism 60, which in turn moves the agitation mechanism 30, enabling the rapid dispensing of laundry detergent pods into the washing machine drum 81, where they mix with the clothes.

[0078] Optionally, combined Figure 4 As shown, a transmission gear set is provided between the first transmission gear 72 and the first gear 61. The transmission gear set includes a second transmission gear 73 and a third transmission gear 74 that are coaxially connected. The second transmission gear 73 meshes with the first transmission gear 72, and the first gear 61 meshes with the third transmission gear 74. The rotating shaft 31 is coaxially connected with the first gear 61.

[0079] The first transmission gear 72 and the second transmission gear 73 can be two bevel gears with their rotation axes perpendicular to each other. The door of a drum-type washing machine is typically vertically extended. A rotating handle 71 is located on the outside of the door, and it is operated by rotating in the vertical plane. Through the beveled tooth surface transmission between the first transmission gear 72 and the second transmission gear 73, the rotation of the rotating handle 71 in the vertical plane can be converted into a horizontal plane rotation adapted to the agitation mechanism 30. The third transmission gear 74 is coaxially arranged with the second transmission gear 73, and it can rotate synchronously with the second transmission gear 73. The third transmission gear 74 and the first gear 61 are spur gears, and the third transmission gear 74 meshes with the first gear 61, thereby driving the rotating shaft 31 to rotate synchronously.

[0080] Optionally, the first transmission gear 72 and the first gear 61 directly mesh and transmit power. Both the first transmission gear 72 and the first gear 61 are bevel gears. The rotation axis of the first transmission gear is horizontal, and the rotation axis of the first gear is vertical.

[0081] The rotation axis of the first transmission gear is horizontal, meaning the rotation plane of the first transmission gear 72 is a vertical plane. The rotation axis of the first gear is vertical, meaning the rotation plane of the first gear is a horizontal plane. The first transmission gear and the first gear achieve meshing transmission through conical tooth profiles, which can convert the rotation of the rotating handle 71 in the vertical plane into rotation in the horizontal plane that is compatible with the agitation mechanism 30. The rotating shaft of the agitation mechanism is coaxially connected to the first gear, and the first gear can drive the rotating shaft to rotate synchronously.

[0082] Multiple blades 32 are located above the second disc 43. A rotating shaft 31 passes sequentially through the center of the second disc 43, the first disc 40, and the first gear 61. The rotating shaft 31 can rotate relative to the second disc 43 and the first disc 40, and rotates synchronously with the first gear 61. The rotation of the first gear 61 transmits power to the rotating shaft 31, which in turn drives the blades 32 to rotate.

[0083] Optionally, when the laundry pod dispenser includes a second disc 42, the laundry pod dispenser also includes a second drive mechanism (not shown in the figure), which is drivenly connected to the switch mechanism 70 and the second disc 42 and is configured to drive the second disc 42 to rotate.

[0084] The second drive mechanism is connected to the stirring mechanism 30 and the switching mechanism 70 respectively. By activating the switching mechanism 70, the second drive mechanism is driven to move the second disc 42, so that the pre-dispensing port 43 can correspond to the dispensing port 41.

[0085] Optionally, the second drive mechanism includes a second gear (not shown in the figure), which is connected to the second disc 42 in a transmission manner to drive the second disc 42 to rotate.

[0086] In the case where the stirring mechanism 30 includes a rotating shaft 31 and multiple blades 32, the first gear 61 can rotate by mechanical transmission, and the second gear can rotate by electric drive. The motor speed can be controlled so that the first gear 61 and the second gear rotate at different speeds.

[0087] It is understood that the switching mechanism 70, the first drive mechanism 60, and the second drive mechanism can all be electrically driven. The following explanation uses an example where the first drive mechanism 60 includes a first gear 61, and the second drive mechanism includes a second gear. The first gear 61 and the second gear can be driven by different motors. By using a frequency converter or motor controller to adjust the speed of each motor, the first gear 61 and the second gear can be driven to move at different speeds, thereby driving the second disc 42 and the stirring mechanism to rotate at different speeds. Alternatively, the first gear 61 and the second gear can be driven by the same motor, and a differential can be used to drive the first gear 61 and the second gear to move at different speeds.

[0088] Laundry detergent pods are pre-stored in the storage compartment 10. When washing clothes, turning the knob switch drives the first gear 61 to drive the shaft 31, which in turn drives the paddle 32. Simultaneously, the second gear drives the pre-dispensing port 43 located on the second disc 42 to rotate. The laundry detergent pods in the storage compartment 10 are pushed into the pre-dispensing port 43 by the paddle 32. The laundry detergent pods that have entered the pre-dispensing port 43 will rotate to align with the dispensing port 41 and then fall into the inner drum 81 for washing clothes. This dispenser not only pre-stores laundry detergent pods but also makes them convenient and quick to use, improving the user experience.

[0089] Optionally, combined Figure 3 As shown, the storage compartment 10 is also provided with a feed inlet 13, and the laundry pod dispenser also includes a cover 14, which is placed over the feed inlet 13 to open or close the feed inlet 13.

[0090] A cover 14 is installed at the feed inlet 13 to form a sealed space within the storage chamber 11, preventing water or foreign objects from entering the storage chamber 11 through the feed inlet 13. The cover 14 can be movably connected to the storage chamber 10 or can be separately installed from the storage chamber 10, as long as the feed inlet 13 can be opened or closed.

[0091] Optionally, the cover 14 is provided with a sealing ring so that when the cover 14 is placed over the feed inlet 13, the sealing ring is located between the cover 14 and the feed inlet 13.

[0092] A sealing ring is installed on the cover 14 to enhance the sealing performance at the inlet 13, maintaining a dry environment inside the storage chamber 10, suitable for storing condensate. The sealing ring can be a rubber ring, which, while achieving a sealing effect, also acts as a buffer between the cover 14 and the outlet 12, preventing direct contact and damage between the cover 14 and the storage chamber 10 at the inlet 13 during opening and closing. It is understood that a sealing ring can also be installed at the inlet 13.

[0093] Optionally, the second opening end 22 of the delivery pipe 20 is provided with a baffle, which is movably connected to the delivery pipe 20 and can open or close the second opening end 22.

[0094] A baffle is installed at the second opening end 22 of the dispensing pipe 20 to block the second opening end 22 and prevent water from clothes or the inner drum 81 from entering the dispensing pipe 20. When the laundry pod enters the dispensing pipe 20 and moves to the second opening end 22, the baffle opens due to the force of the laundry pod itself. After the laundry pod enters the inner drum 81, the baffle moves back to its initial position, closing the second opening end 22. A spring or other reset structure can be installed between the baffle and the dispensing pipe 20 so that after opening, the baffle can automatically return to the position where the second opening end 22 is closed.

[0095] This disclosure provides a washing machine, including an inner drum 81, a door 80, and a laundry pod dispenser as described in any of the preceding embodiments. The inner drum 81 has an opening; the door 80 covers the opening of the inner drum 81; the laundry pod dispenser as described in any of the preceding embodiments is located on the door 80, and the second opening end 22 of the dispensing pipe 20 communicates with the inner drum 81.

[0096] The washing machine provided in this disclosure includes the laundry pod dispenser for washing machines described in any of the above embodiments, and therefore has all the beneficial effects of the laundry pod dispenser for washing machines described in any of the above embodiments, which will not be repeated here.

[0097] The washing machine provided in this disclosure includes various washing machine devices, particularly front-loading washing machines. A laundry pod dispenser for the washing machine is located on the door 80; for front-loading washing machines, it is located on the viewing window of the door 80. This allows for convenient storage and dispensing of laundry pods, while also facilitating observation of the laundry pods in the storage compartment 10, thus improving the user experience. Utilizing the viewing window space for the laundry pod storage compartment 10 provides ample space, solving the problem of insufficient storage for laundry pods. It also frees up more space inside the control panel, resulting in positive cost benefits for the product and allowing for greater optimization of the washing machine's structure and enhanced functionality.

[0098] The foregoing description and accompanying drawings fully illustrate embodiments of the present disclosure to enable those skilled in the art to practice them. Other embodiments may include structural and other changes. The embodiments represent only possible variations. Individual components and functions are optional unless explicitly required, and the order of operation may vary. Parts and features of some embodiments may be included or substituted for parts and features of other embodiments. Embodiments of the present disclosure are not limited to the structures described above and shown in the accompanying drawings, and various modifications and changes may be made without departing from its scope. The scope of the present disclosure is limited only by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A detergent pod dispenser for a washing machine, the washing machine comprising a door and an inner drum, characterized in that, Laundry pod dispensers include: The storage compartment is located on the door and defines the space for holding the laundry pods. The storage space is equipped with a dispensing port. The dispensing pipe includes a first open end and a second open end. The first open end is connected to the discharge port, and the second open end is connected to the inner drum, so that the laundry pods can enter the inner drum from the storage compartment through the dispensing pipe. The agitation mechanism is located within the containment space and at the outlet. It can move relative to the outlet to push the laundry pods in the containment space into the delivery pipe.

2. The laundry pod dispenser for a washing machine according to claim 1, characterized in that, Also includes: The first disc body, covered at the discharge port, is located between the agitation mechanism and the dispensing pipe. It has a dispensing port that connects the accommodating space and the dispensing pipe. The size of the dispensing port is adapted to the size of a single laundry detergent pod to facilitate the dispensing of individual laundry detergent pods.

3. The laundry pod dispenser for a washing machine according to claim 2, characterized in that, Also includes: The second disc is placed at the discharge port, located between the agitation mechanism and the first disc, and can rotate relative to the first disc. The second disc has multiple pre-dispensing ports, each of which is sized to fit the size of a single laundry detergent pod and can accommodate a single laundry detergent pod, so that the agitation mechanism can push the laundry detergent pod into the multiple pre-dispensing ports respectively. During the rotation of the second disc, each pre-dispensing port can correspond to the dispensing port of the first disc, so that the laundry pods in the multiple pre-dispensing ports can enter the dispensing pipe through the dispensing port.

4. The laundry pod dispenser for a washing machine according to claim 3, characterized in that, The stirring mechanism includes: The rotating shaft extends perpendicularly to the radial direction of the discharge port; Multiple blades, each connected to a rotating shaft, extend radially along the discharge port and are arranged at intervals circumferentially. The gap between adjacent blades can accommodate at least one laundry detergent pod. The rotating shaft can drive multiple blades to rotate synchronously.

5. The laundry pod dispenser for a washing machine according to claim 4, characterized in that, The rotating shaft is rotatably connected to the second disc, and multiple pre-dispensing ports are arranged circumferentially. The distance between the lower end face of each blade and the upper surface of the second disc is less than the height of the laundry pod. The rotating shaft can drive multiple blades to rotate relative to the second disc to push the laundry pod into the pre-dispensing port.

6. The laundry pod dispenser for a washing machine according to any one of claims 3 to 5, characterized in that, Also includes: The first drive mechanism is connected to the agitation mechanism and is configured to drive the agitation mechanism to move. The switching mechanism is connected to the first driving mechanism and is configured to drive the first driving mechanism to work.

7. The laundry pod dispenser for a washing machine according to claim 6, characterized in that, Also includes: The second drive mechanism, connected to the switch mechanism and the second disc, is configured to drive the second disc to rotate, and the second disc rotates at a different speed than the stirring mechanism.

8. The laundry pod dispenser for a washing machine according to any one of claims 2 to 5, characterized in that, Also includes: A barrier is installed on the side of the dispensing opening facing the receiving space. The oblique projection of the barrier onto the first tray can block the dispensing opening. There is a gap between the barrier and the dispensing opening, which can accommodate the laundry pods to pass through.

9. A laundry pod dispenser for a washing machine according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that, The storage compartment also has a feed inlet, and the laundry pod dispenser also includes: A cover is placed at the feed inlet to allow the feed inlet to be opened or closed.

10. A washing machine, characterized in that, include: The inner cylinder has an opening; The door is installed at the opening of the inner cylinder; The washing pod dispenser for a washing machine as described in any one of claims 1 to 9 is disposed on the door, and the second opening end of the dispensing pipe is connected to the inner drum.

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