Self-cleaning device, drainage system and air conditioner

Abstract

This invention provides a self-cleaning device, a drainage system, and an air conditioner, relating to the field of air conditioning technology. It solves the technical problems of easy clogging, complex operation, and difficulty in cleaning drainage pipes. The self-cleaning device includes a water storage tank, a liquid level sensor, a control valve, and a squeezing mechanism. The water storage tank is made of a flexible, deformable material, with its inlet end connected to the end of the drainage system. The control valve is located at the outlet end of the water storage tank. The liquid level sensor is located inside the water storage tank. The squeezing mechanism is installed on the outside of the water storage tank and can repeatedly squeeze the tank during startup, thereby forming a pulsed water flow that flows back into the drainage system in a counter-current direction. This invention uses pulsed water flow to periodically flush the drainage pipes, removing biological slime and dirt adhering to the pipe walls and preventing clogging. Its compact structure and lack of frequent manual intervention significantly improve the reliability and ease of maintenance of the air conditioning drainage system.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model relates to the field of air conditioning technology, and in particular to a self-cleaning device, a drainage system and an air conditioner. Background Technology

[0002] The condensate produced during air conditioner operation flows into the drainage system through the bottom casing's water collection tray and drain pipe. However, dust, microorganisms, insects (including dead cockroaches), and oil stains accumulated on the surface of the air conditioner's evaporator will flow into the drainage system with the condensate. Over time, these contaminants can easily form biological slime and stubborn dirt on the inner wall of the drain pipe, which can not only cause pipe blockage but also lead to water leakage, thus seriously affecting the normal user experience of the air conditioner.

[0003] Current industry solutions mainly focus on self-cleaning technologies for the internal drip trays of air conditioners (such as evaporator frosting and decontamination, and high-pressure flushing of the drip trays), but due to their slender structure and concealed installation location, there are always blind spots for cleaning the drainage pipes.

[0004] The applicant has discovered that the existing technology has at least the following technical problems: The existing technology lacks effective active cleaning methods for drainage pipes, requiring users to periodically use manual dredging or disassembly for cleaning, which is not only complex to operate but may also cause mechanical damage to the pipes. Especially in high-rise buildings, once air conditioning drain pipes become blocked, there are often problems such as high repair difficulty, high costs, and safety risks associated with working at heights.

[0005] Therefore, there is an urgent need to develop a device that can be integrated into the end of the drainage system to achieve automated pipe cleaning. Utility Model Content

[0006] The purpose of this invention is to provide a self-cleaning device, a drainage system, and an air conditioner to solve the technical problems of easy clogging of drainage pipes, complicated operation, and difficulty in cleaning in the prior art.

[0007] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention provides the following technical solution: This utility model provides a self-cleaning device, comprising a water storage tank, a liquid level sensor, a control valve, and a squeezing mechanism; wherein: The water storage tank is made of a flexible and deformable material, with one end of the inlet connected to the end of the drainage system. The control valve is located at one end of the outlet of the water storage tank; The liquid level sensor is installed inside the water storage tank; The squeezing mechanism is installed on the outside of the water storage tank. It can repeatedly squeeze the water storage tank when it is started, thereby forming a pulse water flow that flows back into the drainage system in the opposite direction.

[0008] This self-cleaning device uses pulsed water flow to periodically flush the drainage pipes, removing biological slime and dirt adhering to the pipe walls and preventing blockages. Its compact structure and minimal need for frequent manual intervention significantly improve the reliability and ease of maintenance of air conditioning drainage systems.

[0009] As a further improvement of this utility model, the extrusion mechanism includes a drive source and clamping claws; wherein: The number of gripping claws is two, which are arranged opposite to each other to form a gripping part between them; The drive source is connected to both of the gripping claws and can synchronously drive the two gripping claws to move closer or further apart.

[0010] The synchronized movement of the two gripping claws allows for stable and efficient periodic compression of the water storage tank, generating a pulsed water flow with sufficient impact force. This structural design not only enables controllability of the water flow direction but also allows for adjustment of the pulse frequency and intensity based on the actual blockage of the drainage pipe, adapting to the needs of different operating environments. Furthermore, the mechanical linkage between the drive source and the gripping claws not only provides fast response and high control precision but also maintains good stability and durability during long-term operation, effectively extending the service life of the entire self-cleaning device.

[0011] As a further improvement of this utility model, the driving source includes a telescopic cylinder, a ejector pin, a fixed base, and a reset component; wherein: Both of the clamping claws are rotatably connected to one end of the fixed base; The telescopic cylinder is mounted on the fixed base; The ejector pin is conical, with its large end connected to the telescopic cylinder and its small end abutting against the clamping claws on both sides. The reset component is connected to the two clamping claws at both ends.

[0012] When the telescopic cylinder drives the ejector pin forward, the small end of the ejector pin pushes the two clamping claws away from each other, thereby opening the clamping part; when the ejector pin retracts, the reset member pulls the two clamping claws closer together, thereby clamping the water storage tank. Through the reciprocating motion of the ejector pin and the elastic action of the reset member, the periodic opening and closing of the clamping claws is achieved, thereby continuously squeezing the water storage tank and generating a stable pulsed water flow. This drive structure is compact in design, reliable in operation, and can effectively adapt to complex and changing working environments, ensuring the long-term stable operation of the self-cleaning device.

[0013] As a further improvement of this utility model, the reset element is a spring.

[0014] Springs possess excellent elasticity and fatigue resistance, maintaining stable mechanical properties under prolonged and frequent stretching and compression, thus ensuring the reliability and stability of the gripper's opening and closing action. Using springs as the reset component not only simplifies the structure and reduces cost but also facilitates maintenance and replacement, further enhancing the practicality and economy of the entire self-cleaning device.

[0015] As a further improvement of this utility model, a silicone layer is provided on the inner end face of the clamping claw.

[0016] The silicone layer possesses excellent flexibility and wear resistance, providing uniform contact pressure when the grippers compress the water storage tank, preventing damage to the tank's surface. Simultaneously, the silicone layer also offers some anti-slip properties, enhancing the friction between the grippers and the water storage tank, ensuring the stability and effectiveness of the compression action. Furthermore, the silicone material exhibits good water resistance and aging resistance, maintaining structural integrity and functional stability in long-term humid environments, thereby further improving the reliability and service life of the self-cleaning device.

[0017] As a further improvement of this utility model, the water storage tank is ≥3mm thick and is injection molded from UPVC material.

[0018] UPVC material possesses excellent mechanical strength and corrosion resistance, effectively resisting the erosion of various chemicals in water. It also exhibits superior weather resistance and dimensional stability, ensuring the water storage tank is not easily deformed or aged during long-term use. Through injection molding, the water storage tank has a more precise structure, a smooth surface, and is less prone to scale buildup, facilitating cleaning and maintenance. Furthermore, UPVC material has excellent insulation properties, effectively preventing leakage or short circuits caused by humid environments, thereby further enhancing the overall safety and stability of the self-cleaning device.

[0019] As a further improvement of this utility model, a water-gathering inclined surface is provided on the outlet side of the water storage tank, and the inclination angle of the water-gathering inclined surface is 5°.

[0020] This water-collecting ramp effectively guides the water flow towards the outlet, reducing water residue and eddy currents inside the storage tank, thus improving drainage efficiency. The optimized 5° inclination angle ensures smooth water flow without compromising the overall structural strength of the storage tank due to excessive slope. Furthermore, the rounded transition at the connection between the water-collecting ramp and the storage tank outlet further reduces flow resistance, prevents impurity deposition, and enhances self-cleaning performance. This structural improvement not only enhances the device's functionality but also improves overall operational stability and reliability.

[0021] As a further improvement of this utility model, when the two clamping claws are close to each other at their closest position, the diameter of the clamping part is 15mm smaller than the diameter of the water storage tank; when the two clamping claws are far apart from each other at their farthest position, the diameter of the clamping part is larger than the diameter of the water storage tank.

[0022] This design ensures that the gripper has sufficient deformation space when clamping the water tank, thus effectively adapting to water tanks of different sizes, while ensuring the stability and sealing of the clamping action.

[0023] The present invention provides a drainage system including an air conditioning drain pipe, a building drain pipe, and a self-cleaning device; one end of the self-cleaning device is connected to the air conditioning drain pipe, and the other end is connected to the building drain pipe.

[0024] The self-cleaning device achieves reliable connection with air conditioning drain pipes and building drain pipes through its two-end connection structure, ensuring the continuity and sealing of water flow during drainage. In practical applications, the self-cleaning device effectively prevents the accumulation of dirt inside the drain pipes through its periodic automatic flushing function, thereby maintaining the cleanliness and unobstructed flow of the pipes.

[0025] The present invention provides an air conditioner, including the aforementioned drainage system.

[0026] By integrating the aforementioned drainage system, the air conditioner effectively solves common problems in traditional air conditioner drainage, such as blockages, leaks, and difficulties in cleaning and maintenance. During operation, condensate is smoothly discharged through a self-cleaning device, preventing bacterial growth and odors caused by water accumulation, while also improving the reliability and lifespan of the overall drainage system. This design not only improves the operating efficiency of the air conditioning system but also significantly reduces subsequent maintenance costs, making it suitable for various household and commercial air conditioning products. Attached Figure Description

[0027] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this utility model or the prior art, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of this utility model. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0028] Figure 1 This is an installation effect diagram of the self-cleaning device of this utility model; Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the extrusion mechanism in the self-cleaning device of this utility model; Figure 3 This is a front view of the extrusion mechanism in the self-cleaning device of this utility model; Figure 4This is a schematic diagram of the self-cleaning device of this utility model with the control valve in the open state; Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the self-cleaning device of this utility model with the control valve in the closed state; Figure 6 This is the control logic diagram of the self-cleaning device of this utility model.

[0029] In the picture: Water storage tank; 11. Water collecting slope; 2. Liquid level sensor; 3. Control valve; 4. Extrusion mechanism; 41. Driver source; 411. Telescopic cylinder; 412. Threshold pin; 413. Fixture; 414. Reset component; 42. Gripping claws; 421. Clamping part; 5. Air conditioner drain pipe; 6. Building drainage pipes; 7. Indoor unit of air conditioner. Detailed Implementation

[0030] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of this utility model clearer, the technical solutions of this utility model will be described in detail below. Obviously, the described embodiments are only a part of the embodiments of this utility model, and not all of them. Based on the embodiments of this utility model, all other implementation methods obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this utility model.

[0031] Example 1: like Figures 1-6 As shown, this utility model provides a self-cleaning device, including a water storage tank 1, a liquid level sensor 2, a control valve 3, and a squeezing mechanism 4; wherein: The water storage tank 1 is made of a flexible, deformable material, with its inlet end connected to the end of the drainage system. Specifically, the water storage tank 1 can be injection molded from UPVC material with a thickness ≥3mm. It is corrosion-resistant and has a pressure resistance >0.4MPa, with a preset volume of 300ml (size can be customized). UPVC material has good mechanical strength and corrosion resistance, effectively resisting the erosion of various chemicals in the water. It also possesses excellent weather resistance and dimensional stability, ensuring that the water storage tank 1 is not easily deformed or aged during long-term use. Through the injection molding process, the structure of the water storage tank 1 is more precise, with a smooth surface that is less prone to scale buildup, facilitating cleaning and maintenance. Furthermore, UPVC material has good insulation properties, effectively preventing leakage or short circuits caused by humid environments, thereby further improving the overall safety and stability of the self-cleaning device.

[0032] The outlet of water storage tank 1 is connected to the building drainage pipe 6 to ensure that condensate can be discharged smoothly. The level sensor 2 is installed inside water storage tank 1 to monitor water level changes in real time and is electrically connected to the control system. When the water level reaches the set height, it triggers the control valve 3 to open.

[0033] To further improve the drainage effect, a water-gathering inclined surface 11 is provided on the outlet side of the water storage tank 1 to ensure complete drainage; the inclination angle of the water-gathering inclined surface 11 is 5°.

[0034] The water-collecting ramp 11 effectively guides the water flow towards the outlet, reducing water residue and eddy currents inside the storage tank 1, thereby improving drainage efficiency. The optimized 5° inclination angle ensures smooth water flow without compromising the overall structural strength of the storage tank 1 due to excessive slope. Furthermore, the arc-shaped transition at the connection between the water-collecting ramp 11 and the outlet of the storage tank 1 further reduces water flow resistance, prevents impurity deposition, and enhances self-cleaning performance. This structural improvement not only enhances the functionality of the device but also improves the overall operational stability and reliability.

[0035] The control valve 3 is located at one end of the outlet of the water storage tank 1; that is, the control valve 3 is located at the bottom of the water storage tank 1 and is used to control the connection between the water storage tank 1 and the building drainage pipe 6. The control valve 3 can be an electric ball valve, whose opening and closing are controlled by the water level signal detected by the liquid level sensor 2. It integrates flushing and drainage dual-function modes, and its non-completely sealed design also has the function of preventing rainwater backflow. When the water level in the water storage tank 1 reaches the set height, the control system receives the signal, the control valve 3 automatically closes, the squeezing mechanism 4 repeatedly squeezes the water storage tank 1, and then reverses the flushing of the air conditioning drainage pipe. Then the control valve 3 opens, and the condensate is automatically discharged. The liquid level sensor 2 is installed inside the water storage tank 1. Specifically, the liquid level sensor 2 is a capacitive sensor, installed at the top of the water storage tank 1. For example, when the volume of the water storage tank 1 is 300ml, the liquid level sensor 2 is embedded in the side wall of the water storage tank 1, corresponding to the 300ml water level position; the detection accuracy is ±2mm. The cable is connected to the indoor unit's main board control module via a waterproof connector; when the detected liquid level in the water storage tank 1 reaches 300ml, the liquid level sensor triggers the control module to transmit a signal to the automatic presser, executing a pressing cycle action.

[0036] The squeezing mechanism 4 is installed on the outside of the water storage tank 1. It can repeatedly squeeze the water storage tank when it is started, thereby forming a pulse water flow of the condensate stored in the water storage tank and flowing back into the drainage system in the opposite direction.

[0037] This self-cleaning device uses pulsed water flow to periodically flush the drainage pipes, removing biological slime and dirt adhering to the pipe walls and preventing blockages. Its compact structure and minimal need for frequent manual intervention significantly improve the reliability and ease of maintenance of air conditioning drainage systems.

[0038] In this embodiment, the extrusion mechanism 4 includes a drive source 41 and a clamping claw 42; wherein: The clamping claws 42 are arranged in pairs, opposite each other, to form a clamping part 421 between them. The clamping claws 42 are made of 304 stainless steel arc-shaped claws. A silicone layer is provided on the inner end face of each clamping claw 42 to prevent damage to the water storage tank 1 caused by prolonged operation of the robotic arm. The silicone layer has good flexibility and wear resistance, providing uniform contact pressure when the clamping claws 42 squeeze the water storage tank 1, avoiding damage to the surface of the water storage tank 1. Simultaneously, the silicone layer also has a certain anti-slip effect, enhancing the friction between the clamping claws 42 and the water storage tank 1, ensuring the stability and effectiveness of the squeezing action. Furthermore, the silicone material has good water resistance and aging resistance, maintaining structural integrity and functional stability in long-term humid environments, thereby further improving the reliability and service life of the self-cleaning device.

[0039] The drive source 41 is connected to both of the gripping claws 42, and can synchronously drive the two gripping claws 42 to move closer or further apart.

[0040] The synchronized movement of the two gripping claws 42 allows for stable and efficient periodic compression of the water storage tank 1, generating a pulsed water flow with sufficient impact force. This structural design not only enables controllability of the water flow direction but also allows for adjustment of the pulse frequency and intensity according to the actual blockage of the drainage pipe, adapting to the needs of different operating environments. Furthermore, the mechanical linkage between the drive source 41 and the gripping claws 42 not only provides fast response and high control precision but also maintains good stability and durability during long-term operation, effectively extending the service life of the entire self-cleaning device.

[0041] Furthermore, the drive source 41 includes a telescopic cylinder 411, a push pin 412, a fixed base 413, and a reset member 414; wherein: Both of the clamping claws 42 are rotatably connected to one end of the fixed base 413 and can rotate about an axis relative to the fixed base 413; The telescopic cylinder 411 is mounted on the fixed base 413, and its output shaft is connected to the ejector pin 412; the telescopic cylinder 411 pushes the clamping claw 42 through the ejector pin 412.

[0042] Specifically, the telescopic cylinder 411 is a linear telescopic cylinder with a stroke of 20mm, which is fixed to the outer wall of the water storage tank 1; The ejector pin 412 is conical, with its large end connected to the telescopic cylinder 411 and its small end abutting against the clamping claws 42 on both sides; thus, when the telescopic cylinder 411 moves, the thrust is evenly transmitted to the two clamping claws 42 through the structural characteristics of the conical ejector pin 412, so that the two move synchronously. The reset member 414 is connected to the two clamping claws 42 at both ends. When the telescopic cylinder 411 stops moving, the reset member 414 can use its own elasticity to cause the two clamping claws 42 to return to their initial positions, thus completing one complete squeezing cycle. This reset structure design ensures the continuity and stability of the device's operation, while also reducing energy consumption and mechanical wear. Through the above structure, the self-cleaning device can achieve continuous and efficient pipe cleaning operations without human intervention, significantly improving the operational reliability and maintenance convenience of the air conditioning drainage system.

[0043] When the telescopic cylinder 411 drives the ejector pin 412 to move forward, the small end of the ejector pin 412 pushes the two clamping claws 42 away from each other, thereby opening the clamping part 421. When the ejector pin 412 retracts, the reset member 414 pulls the two clamping claws 42 closer together, thereby clamping the water storage tank 1. Through the reciprocating motion of the ejector pin 412 and the elastic action of the reset member 414, the periodic opening and closing of the clamping claws 42 is achieved, thereby continuously squeezing the water storage tank 1 and generating a stable pulsed water flow. This drive structure is compact in design, reliable in operation, and can effectively adapt to complex and changing working environments, ensuring the long-term stable operation of the self-cleaning device.

[0044] As a further improvement of this utility model, the reset member 414 is a spring.

[0045] The gripper 42 adopts a biomimetic design, using a spring gripper to simulate the action of manually "squeezing a water bottle" to generate a pulsed water flow, which increases the impact force by 3 times compared to the traditional method; The spring possesses excellent elasticity and fatigue resistance, maintaining stable mechanical properties under prolonged and frequent stretching and compression, thus ensuring the reliability and stability of the opening and closing action of the gripper 42. Using a spring as the reset element 414 not only simplifies the structure and reduces cost but also facilitates maintenance and replacement, further enhancing the practicality and economy of the entire self-cleaning device.

[0046] As a further improvement of this utility model, when the two clamping claws 42 are close to each other at their closest position, the diameter of the clamping part 421 is 15mm smaller than the diameter of the water storage tank 1; when the two clamping claws 42 are far apart from each other at their farthest position, the diameter of the clamping part 421 is larger than the diameter of the water storage tank 1.

[0047] This design ensures that the clamping claw 42 can generate sufficient deformation space when clamping the water storage tank 1, thereby effectively adapting to different sizes of the water storage tank 1, while ensuring the stability and sealing of the clamping action.

[0048] In use, when the telescopic cylinder pushes the ejector pin 412 downward, it opens the rear end of the clamping claw, and the front end of the clamping claw instantly approaches and squeezes the flexible side wall of the water storage tank 1 (pressing depth 15mm); when the telescopic cylinder moves backward, the clamping claw is released, and the clamping claw is opened and reset under the action of spring force: ejector pin 412 extends → robotic arm closes → ejector pin 412 retracts → spring releases to achieve 1 press (single press takes 1.5 seconds), preset cycle 5-10 times to generate pulse water pressure (peak pressure 0.35MPa); after the preset number of presses is completed, the control module sends a command to the control valve at the same time.

[0049] like Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, the control valve uses a ball valve structure with a fluororubber sealing ring around the valve core. Normally, it is in the closed state, preventing rainwater backflow. A 90° rotation allows for full-bore drainage. After cleaning, the control module sends a signal to the control valve, causing the valve core to rotate 90° to open for drainage (with a 20-second delay to ensure complete drainage); the control valve then automatically resets and closes, putting the system into standby mode.

[0050] This invention's self-cleaning device adjusts the pulse frequency by controlling the extension and retraction frequency of the extrusion cylinder in the squeezing mechanism. With 5-10 presses spaced 0.8 seconds apart, it generates oscillating waves to enhance the dirt removal effect. The control module monitors the extension cylinder's stroke and the opening and closing status of the control valve. In case of abnormalities, it triggers an audible and visual alarm and interrupts the process, providing fault protection. The device can be expanded with a Wi-Fi module, allowing users to adjust the cleaning cycle via an app (it is recommended to start once every 120 hours of operation by default). The water storage tank has a customizable volume to accommodate different air conditioning models with varying cooling capacities.

[0051] Key parameter optimization: Clamping claw stroke: Pressing depth 8-20mm, ensuring that the deformation rate of water storage tank 1 is ≥15% to generate an effective pulse; Sealing treatment: All electrical interfaces use IP67 waterproof connectors, and the gripper shaft is filled with silicone grease for rust prevention; Energy consumption control: Power consumption per cleaning cycle ≤ 0.02kWh (telescopic cylinder power 5W × working time 30 seconds); Fault redundancy: A pressure sensor is added to detect pipe blockage, and an alarm is pushed to the user's APP after three failed flushing attempts.

[0052] like Figure 6 As shown, the control logic of the self-cleaning device of this utility model is as follows: The indoor unit of the air conditioner starts and begins storing water. Condensate is injected into the water storage tank 1, and the water level sensor 2 monitors the water level in real time. Monitoring continues until the water level reaches the preset height. Once the water level reaches the preset height, a high-level signal is sent to the control module, which then activates the telescopic cylinder, cycling 5-10 times. The clamping claws repeatedly compress the water storage tank, generating a reverse pulse water jet, and the control valve opens to drain the water. After a 20-second delay, the control valve resets and closes, awaiting the next flush.

[0053] Example 2: like Figures 1-6 As shown, the present invention provides a drainage system including an air conditioning drain pipe 5, a building drain pipe 6, and the self-cleaning device; one end of the self-cleaning device is connected to the air conditioning drain pipe 5, and the other end is connected to the building drain pipe 6.

[0054] The self-cleaning device achieves reliable connection with the air conditioning drain pipe 5 and the building drain pipe 6 through the connection structure at both ends, ensuring the continuity and sealing of water flow during drainage. In practical applications, the self-cleaning device effectively prevents the accumulation of dirt inside the drain pipe through its periodic automatic flushing function, thereby maintaining the cleanliness and unobstructed flow of the pipe.

[0055] This self-cleaning device utilizes the condensate produced by the air conditioner to achieve fully automatic pipe cleaning. It efficiently removes dirt from pipe walls through pulsed water flow, requiring no external water source or manual intervention. The sealed design of the water storage tank 1 and control valve completely eliminates the risk of leakage. The liquid level sensor 2 and control module work together to ensure that the cleaning cycle is initiated as needed, effectively breaking down stubborn dirt and simultaneously cleaning the entire water path from the water tank to the drain pipe, significantly improving drainage reliability. The overall structure is compact, energy-efficient, and compatible with existing air conditioning systems, greatly reducing after-sales maintenance costs.

[0056] Example 3: like Figures 1-6 As shown, the present invention provides an air conditioner including the drainage system.

[0057] The air conditioner includes an indoor unit 7, an air conditioner drain pipe 5 connected to the indoor unit 7, and a self-cleaning device vertically installed between the air conditioner drain pipe 5 and the building drain pipe 6. Its purpose is to collect the condensate generated during the operation of the air conditioner for recycling. The periodic squeezing action of the self-cleaning device realizes the automatic cleaning of the drain pipe, thereby preventing blockage and improving drainage efficiency.

[0058] During installation, sealant (polyurethane sealant) is applied to the inlet of the water storage tank 1, which is then inserted into the air conditioning drain pipe 5. Finally, it is tightened using a clamp (DN20 union clamp) to achieve a stable and sealed connection between the air conditioning drain pipe 5 and the self-cleaning device. The outlet of the water storage tank 1 is connected to a control valve, with the joint wrapped with PTFE tape and coated with polyurethane sealant. This double-sealing structure not only improves the waterproof performance of the connection but also effectively prevents loosening due to vibration or temperature changes, ensuring the long-term stable operation of the entire drainage system. Furthermore, this sealing structure is easy to disassemble and replace; users can perform the disassembly and assembly of the self-cleaning device without specialized tools during maintenance.

[0059] A water storage tank 1 equipped with a liquid level sensor 2 is installed at the end of the air conditioner drain pipe 5. When the condensate reaches the set capacity, the control module activates the telescopic cylinder to drive the ejector pin 412, triggering the spring-loaded clamping claw to repeatedly compress the water storage tank 1 (compression frequency adjustable), generating pulsed water flow to flush the drain pipe in reverse. After flushing, the control valve switches to the drainage mode to discharge the remaining water and automatically resets the seal.

[0060] By integrating the aforementioned drainage system, the air conditioner effectively solves common problems in traditional air conditioner drainage, such as blockages, leaks, and difficulties in cleaning and maintenance. During operation, condensate is smoothly discharged through a self-cleaning device, preventing bacterial growth and odors caused by water accumulation, while also improving the reliability and lifespan of the overall drainage system. This design not only improves the operating efficiency of the air conditioning system but also significantly reduces subsequent maintenance costs, making it suitable for various household and commercial air conditioning products.

[0061] First, it should be noted that "inward" refers to the direction towards the center of the storage space, while "outward" refers to the direction away from the center of the storage space.

[0062] In the description of this utility model, it should be understood that the terms "center," "longitudinal," "transverse," "length," "width," "thickness," "upper," "lower," "front," "rear," "left," "right," "vertical," "horizontal," "top," "bottom," "inner," "outer," "clockwise," "counterclockwise," "axial," "radial," and "circumferential" indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the appendix. Figure 1 The orientations or positional relationships shown are for the convenience of describing this utility model and simplifying the description, and are not intended to indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore should not be construed as a limitation of this utility model.

[0063] Furthermore, the terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of indicated technical features. Thus, a feature defined as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include at least one of that feature. In the description of this utility model, "a plurality of" means at least two, such as two, three, etc., unless otherwise explicitly specified.

[0064] In this utility model, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," "joining," and "fixing," etc., should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral part; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; they can refer to the internal communication of two components or the interaction between two components, unless otherwise explicitly limited. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this utility model according to the specific circumstances.

[0065] In this utility model, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, "above" or "below" the second feature can mean that the first feature is in direct contact with the second feature, or that the first feature is in indirect contact with the second feature through an intermediate medium. Furthermore, "above," "on top of," and "over" the second feature can mean that the first feature is directly above or diagonally above the second feature, or simply that the first feature is at a higher horizontal level than the second feature. "Below," "below," and "under" the second feature can mean that the first feature is directly below or diagonally below the second feature, or simply that the first feature is at a lower horizontal level than the second feature.

[0066] In the description of this specification, the references to terms such as "one embodiment," "some embodiments," "example," "specific example," or "some examples," etc., indicate that a specific feature, structure, material, or characteristic described in connection with that embodiment or example is included in at least one embodiment or example of the present invention. In this specification, the illustrative expressions of the above terms do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment or example. Furthermore, the specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments or examples. Moreover, without contradiction, those skilled in the art can combine and integrate the different embodiments or examples described in this specification, as well as the features of different embodiments or examples.

[0067] The above description is merely a specific embodiment of this utility model, but the protection scope of this utility model is not limited thereto. Any variations or substitutions that can be easily conceived by those skilled in the art within the technical scope disclosed in this utility model should be included within the protection scope of this utility model. Therefore, the protection scope of this utility model should be determined by the protection scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A self-cleaning device, characterized in that, Includes a water storage tank, a level sensor, a control valve, and a squeezing mechanism; among which: The water storage tank is made of a flexible and deformable material, with one end of the inlet connected to the end of the drainage system. The control valve is located at one end of the outlet of the water storage tank; The liquid level sensor is installed inside the water storage tank; The squeezing mechanism is installed on the outside of the water storage tank. It can repeatedly squeeze the water storage tank when it is started, thereby forming a pulse water flow that flows back into the drainage system in the opposite direction.

2. The self-cleaning device of claim 1, wherein, The extrusion mechanism includes a drive source and clamping claws; wherein: The number of gripping claws is two, which are arranged opposite to each other to form a gripping part between them; The drive source is connected to both of the gripping claws and can synchronously drive the two gripping claws to move closer or further apart.

3. The self-cleaning device of claim 2, wherein, The drive source includes a telescopic cylinder, a ejector pin, a fixed base, and a reset component; wherein: Both of the clamping claws are rotatably connected to one end of the fixed base; The telescopic cylinder is mounted on the fixed base; The ejector pin is conical, with its large end connected to the telescopic cylinder and its small end abutting against the clamping claws on both sides. The reset component is connected to the two clamping claws at both ends.

4. The self-cleaning device of claim 3, wherein, The reset element is a spring.

5. The self-cleaning device of claim 2, wherein, A silicone layer is provided on the inner end face of the clamping claw.

6. The self-cleaning device of claim 1, wherein, The water storage tank is ≥3mm thick and is injection molded from UPVC material.

7. The self-cleaning device according to claim 1, characterized in that, A water-gathering ramp is provided on the outlet side of the water storage tank.

8. The self-cleaning device of claim 2, wherein, When the two clamping claws are brought close to each other, the diameter of the clamping part is smaller than the diameter of the water storage tank; when the two clamping claws are moved away from each other to their furthest positions, the diameter of the clamping part is larger than the diameter of the water storage tank.

9. A drainage system, characterized in that, It includes an air conditioning drain pipe, a building drain pipe, and a self-cleaning device as described in any one of claims 1-8; one end of the self-cleaning device is connected to the air conditioning drain pipe, and the other end is connected to the building drain pipe.

10. An air conditioner characterized by comprising: Includes the drainage system as described in claim 9.

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