Cat litter machine

Abstract

The application relates to the field of pet equipment, and provides a cat litter machine, which comprises a litter basin assembly and a litter rake mechanism. The litter basin assembly comprises two frame plates. The litter rake mechanism comprises a cat litter rake, a swing driving assembly, a lifting driving assembly, a translation driving assembly, two lifting supports and two translation supports. The two translation supports are slidably installed on the two frame plates in a one-to-one manner. The translation driving assembly is connected with the two translation supports to drive the two translation supports to move synchronously in a first direction. The two lifting supports are installed on the two translation supports in a one-to-one manner in a lifting manner. The lifting driving assembly is installed on the two translation supports and connected with the two lifting supports to drive the two lifting supports to lift synchronously. The cat litter rake is rotatably installed between the two lifting supports. The swing driving assembly is installed on at least one lifting support and connected with the cat litter rake to drive the cat litter rake to swing relative to the lifting support. Based on the above structure, the cleaning dead angle can be reduced, and the cleaning effect and cleaning efficiency of the cat litter machine can be improved.

Description

Technical Field

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

[0002] A litter box cleaner is a smart device that automatically cleans a cat litter box. In some cases, a litter box cleaner includes a litter box and a litter rake, which moves within the litter box to separate and remove clumps of litter. However, the movement path of the litter rake in existing litter box cleaners is insufficient, resulting in dead zones and poor cleaning performance and efficiency. Utility Model Content

[0003] This application provides a cat litter machine, which aims to solve the problem that the movement path of the cat litter rake in existing cat litter machines is not covered enough, resulting in dead corners and residue, which leads to poor cleaning effect and efficiency of the cat litter machine.

[0004] To achieve the above objectives, the technical solution adopted in the embodiments of this application is as follows:

[0005] Firstly, a cat litter machine is provided, comprising:

[0006] A sand basin assembly includes two frame plates that are arranged opposite to each other and both extend along a first direction;

[0007] A litter rake mechanism includes a litter rake, a swing drive assembly, a lifting drive assembly, a translation drive assembly, two lifting brackets, and two translation brackets. The two translation brackets are slidably mounted one-to-one on two mounting plates. The translation drive assembly is connected to the two translation brackets to drive the two translation brackets to move synchronously along a first direction. The two lifting brackets are lifted one-to-one in the two translation brackets. The lifting drive assembly is mounted on the two translation brackets and connected to the two lifting brackets to drive the two lifting brackets to lift synchronously. The litter rake is rotatably mounted between the two lifting brackets. The swing drive assembly is mounted on at least one of the lifting brackets and connected to the litter rake to drive the litter rake to swing relative to the lifting bracket.

[0008] In some embodiments, the sand basin assembly is provided with two first racks that extend along the first direction and correspond one-to-one with the two frame plates;

[0009] The translation drive assembly includes a first driver, a first synchronous shaft, and two first gears. The two first gears mesh one-to-one with two first racks. The first synchronous shaft is connected between the two first gears. The two first gears and the first synchronous shaft rotate synchronously. The first driver is installed inside one of the translation brackets and is driven and connected to the adjacent first gear.

[0010] In some embodiments, the first synchronous shaft is interference-fitted with the first gear.

[0011] In some embodiments, the translation bracket has an arc-shaped protective protrusion on the side facing the frame plate, and the protective protrusion is spaced apart on the side of the first gear facing away from the first rack.

[0012] In some embodiments, both of the lifting brackets are provided with a second rack extending in the lifting direction on the same side along the first direction;

[0013] The lifting drive assembly includes a second driver, a second synchronous shaft, and two second gears. The two second gears mesh one-to-one with the second racks of the two lifting brackets. The second synchronous shaft is connected between the two second gears. The two second gears and the second synchronous shaft rotate synchronously. The second driver is installed inside one of the translation brackets and is driven by the adjacent second gear.

[0014] In some embodiments, the lifting drive assembly includes a roller that rolls in contact with any side of the lifting bracket along the first direction, and the central axis of the roller is parallel to the central axis of the second gear.

[0015] In some embodiments, the rollers are provided on the side of the lifting bracket disposed on the opposite side of the second driver.

[0016] In some embodiments, the second synchronous shaft is interference-fitted with the second gear.

[0017] In some embodiments, at least one of the lifting brackets is provided with a third rack extending along the lifting direction, the third rack and the second rack being disposed on opposite sides of the lifting bracket along the first direction.

[0018] In some embodiments, one of the lifting brackets is a first lifting bracket, and the swing drive assembly is installed inside the first lifting bracket;

[0019] The swing drive assembly includes a swing arm, a third driver, and a third gear. The swing arm is connected to the cat litter rake and swings synchronously. The third gear is rotatably mounted on the end of the swing arm away from the cat litter rake. The third driver is mounted on the swing arm and drivenly connected to the third gear.

[0020] The first lifting bracket has a fourth rack inside. The fourth rack extends circumferentially around the swing axis of the swing arm in an arc shape and is correspondingly arranged with the third gear, which meshes with the fourth rack.

[0021] In some embodiments, the drivers for the swing drive assembly, the lifting drive assembly, and the translation drive assembly are all installed inside the same translation bracket.

[0022] In some embodiments, the translation bracket has two limiting protrusions on one side facing the frame plate. The two limiting protrusions are spaced apart from each other and extend along the first direction. The two limiting protrusions are respectively limited and engaged with the opposite sides of the frame plate.

[0023] In some embodiments, the litter rake is made of metal.

[0024] The beneficial effects of the cat litter machine provided in this application are as follows:

[0025] The cat litter machine provided in this application embodiment can drive two translation brackets to move synchronously in a first direction via a translation drive assembly, and drive two lifting brackets, a lifting drive assembly, a swing drive assembly, and a cat litter rake to move synchronously in the first direction along with the two translation brackets, thereby realizing the translational movement of the cat litter rake; it can also drive the two lifting brackets to move synchronously up and down relative to the two translation brackets via the lifting drive assembly, and drive the swing drive assembly and the cat litter rake to move synchronously up and down with the two lifting brackets, thereby realizing the lifting and lowering movement of the cat litter rake; it can also drive the cat litter rake to swing relative to the two lifting brackets via the swing drive assembly, thereby realizing the swinging movement of the cat litter rake. Based on this, the litter rake can achieve flexible movement in three-dimensional space through a combination of translation, lifting, and swinging layered drive. In particular, translation covers the horizontal area, lifting adjusts the depth of the litter rake, and swinging expands the angle coverage. The coordination of these three actions allows the movement path of the litter rake to basically cover the entire internal space of the litter box assembly. This allows the litter rake to flexibly cut into the litter layer and rake and separate clumps of litter buried in different areas, effectively reducing cleaning dead corners caused by traditional single movement modes. It also allows the litter rake to flexibly smooth the litter. In particular, the litter rake can perform translation, lifting, and swinging actions in a coordinated manner. Each action can be performed synchronously as needed without interfering with each other, reducing the risk of action stagnation or jamming. Based on the automated linkage of multiple actions (such as synchronous swinging during translation), it can reduce invalid travel (such as repeated back and forth), intermittent operation (such as single action), and inefficient operation (such as repeatedly scraping the same area), making the cleaning process efficient, convenient, and clean, and shortening the single cleaning cycle. Therefore, it can effectively reduce or even eliminate cleaning dead spots, effectively improve the cleaning power, cleaning effect, cleaning efficiency and cat litter smoothing effect of the litter machine, and effectively shorten the overall cleaning time. Attached Figure Description

[0026] To clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this application, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments of this application or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of this application. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0027] Figure 1 A perspective view of a cat litter machine provided in some embodiments of this application;

[0028] Figure 2 for Figure 1 An exploded view of the provided sand basin components;

[0029] Figure 3 for Figure 2 A partial structural diagram of the provided sand basin assembly;

[0030] Figure 4 for Figure 1 An exploded view of the provided sand rake mechanism;

[0031] Figure 5 for Figure 4 The provided structural diagrams of the cat litter rake, swing drive assembly, lifting drive assembly, translation drive assembly, and lifting bracket are shown. Figure 1 ;

[0032] Figure 6 for Figure 5 The provided structural diagrams of the cat litter rake, swing drive assembly, lifting drive assembly, translation drive assembly, and lifting bracket are shown. Figure 2 ;

[0033] Figure 7 for Figure 5 Exploded view of the provided cat litter rake, swing drive assembly, and lifting bracket;

[0034] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a cat litter rake and a swing arm provided in some embodiments of this application.

[0035] The following are the labeling elements in the figure:

[0036] 10-Litter box assembly, 11-Shelf, 12-First rack, 13-Litter box, 131-First receiving space, 14-Pot pouch, 141-Second receiving space, 15-Flip cover, 20-Litter rake mechanism, 21-Litter rake, 22-Swing drive assembly, 221-Swing arm, 2211-Limiting groove, 222-Third drive, 223-Third gear, 23-Lifting drive assembly, 231-Second drive, 232-Second synchronous shaft, 23 3-Second gear, 234-Roller, 24-Translation drive assembly, 241-First driver, 242-First synchronous shaft, 243-First gear, 25-Lifting bracket, 251-Second rack, 252-Third rack, 25a-First lifting bracket, 253-Fourth rack, 26-Translation bracket, 261-Protective protrusion, 262-Limiting protrusion, 27-Control assembly, x-First direction, y-Lifting direction, L-Swing axis of the swing arm. Detailed Implementation

[0037] To make the technical problems, technical solutions, and beneficial effects to be solved by this application clear, the application will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings and embodiments. It should be understood that the specific embodiments described herein are merely illustrative of this application and are not intended to limit this application. Unless otherwise specified, all embodiments and optional embodiments of this application can be combined to form new technical solutions. Unless otherwise specified, all technical features and optional technical features of this application can be combined to form new technical solutions.

[0038] In the description of this application, it should be understood that the terms "length", "width", "upper", "lower", "front", "rear", "left", "right", "vertical", "horizontal", "top", "bottom", "inner", "outer", etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings, and are only for the convenience of describing this application and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore should not be construed as a limitation of this application.

[0039] 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 technical features indicated. Thus, a feature defined as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include one or more of that feature. In the description of this application, "multiple" means two or more, unless otherwise explicitly specified.

[0040] In this application, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," "linking," 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. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this application according to the specific circumstances.

[0041] In the context of pet cat ownership, litter boxes are typically used for cats to relieve themselves. This allows the cats to instinctively bury their waste, maintaining a clean living environment. After a cat has used the litter box several times, it's necessary to promptly clean the clumps of litter or replace the litter to allow the cat to continue relieving itself. Based on this, a smart device that can automatically clean the litter box—the litter box cleaner—has emerged.

[0042] In some cases, litter machines include a litter box and a litter rake. The litter rake moves within the litter box to separate and clean up clumps of litter buried in the litter box. However, the movement path of the litter rake in existing litter machines is insufficient, resulting in dead zones and residue, leading to poor cleaning performance and efficiency.

[0043] The embodiments provided in this application will solve the above problems.

[0044] To illustrate the technical solutions provided in this application, the following detailed description is provided in conjunction with specific drawings and embodiments.

[0045] Please see Figure 1 , Figure 2, Figure 4 , Figure 5 Some embodiments of this application provide a cat litter machine, including a litter box assembly 10 and a litter rake mechanism 20. The litter box assembly 10 includes two frame plates 11 arranged opposite each other and extending along a first direction x. The litter rake mechanism 20 includes a litter rake 21, a swing drive assembly 22, a lifting drive assembly 23, a translation drive assembly 24, two lifting brackets 25, and two translation brackets 26. The two translation brackets 26 are slidably mounted one-to-one on the two frame plates 11. The translation drive assembly 24 is connected to the two translation brackets 26 to drive the two translation brackets 26 to move synchronously along the first direction x. The two lifting brackets 25 are vertically mounted one-to-one in the two translation brackets 26. The lifting drive assembly 23 is mounted on the two translation brackets 26 and connected to the two lifting brackets 25 to drive the two lifting brackets 25 to move synchronously. The litter rake 21 is rotatably mounted between the two lifting brackets 25. The swing drive assembly 22 is mounted on at least one lifting bracket 25 and connected to the litter rake 21 to drive the litter rake 21 to swing relative to the lifting bracket 25.

[0046] It should be noted that the litter box assembly 10 includes two support plates 11, which are parallel and spaced apart from each other, and both extend along the first direction x. The two support plates 11 provide support for the entire litter box, allowing it to be placed stably on the ground.

[0047] The litter box assembly 10 has a receiving space between the two shelf panels 11, the receiving space being at least used to hold cat litter. Figure 2 As shown, in some embodiments, the containing space is divided into a first containing space 131 and a second containing space 141 along the first direction x. The first containing space 131 is used to contain cat litter, and the second containing space 141 is used to collect clumps of cat litter that have been raked and separated from the cat litter for subsequent cleaning. Figure 2 As shown, in some embodiments, the litter box assembly 10 includes a litter box 13, which is detachably installed between two shelves 11. The internal space of the litter box 13 can form a first receiving space 131. This arrangement facilitates the disassembly and assembly of the litter box 13, and allows for deep cleaning or replacement of the litter inside the litter box 13. Figure 2 As shown, in some embodiments, the litter box assembly 10 includes a litter collection basin 14, which is detachably installed between two shelf plates 11. The internal space of the litter collection basin 14 can form a second receiving space 141. This arrangement facilitates the disassembly and assembly of the litter collection basin 14 and facilitates the processing and cleaning of clumped cat litter within the litter collection basin 14. Figure 2As shown, in some embodiments, the litter box assembly 10 includes a flip cover 15, which is rotatably mounted on two shelves 11 and corresponding to a second receiving space 141, for covering the second receiving space 141 when the litter rake 21 exits the second receiving space 141.

[0048] It should also be noted that the litter rake mechanism 20 includes a translation bracket 26, a translation drive assembly 24, a lifting bracket 25, a lifting drive assembly 23, a litter rake 21, and a swing drive assembly 22.

[0049] Two translation brackets 26 are provided, and the two translation brackets 26 are arranged one-to-one with the two frame plates 11. Each translation bracket 26 is slidably installed on the corresponding frame plate 11. Since the frame plate 11 extends along the first direction x, the sliding direction of the translation bracket 26 relative to the corresponding frame plate 11 is the first direction x.

[0050] The translation drive assembly 24 is driven to connect with the two translation supports 26, and the translation drive assembly 24 can drive the two translation supports 26 to slide synchronously relative to the two support plates 11 along the first direction x. The structure of the translation drive assembly 24 can be designed in various ways, such as using a combination of gear rack and pinion and motor, a combination of synchronous belt and motor (e.g., stepper motor or servo motor), a combination of lead screw nut and motor, or a linear motor, etc.

[0051] There are two lifting brackets 25, and the two lifting brackets 25 are arranged one-to-one with the two translation brackets 26. Each lifting bracket 25 is installed in the corresponding translation bracket 26 in a lifting manner. The lifting direction y of the lifting bracket 25 relative to the translation bracket 26 is parallel to the direction of gravity.

[0052] The lifting drive assembly 23 is driven to connect with the two lifting brackets 25, and the lifting drive assembly 23 can drive the two lifting brackets 25 to move synchronously up and down relative to the two translation brackets 26 along the lifting direction y. The structure of the lifting drive assembly 23 can be designed in various ways, such as using a combination of gear and rack and motor, a combination of lead screw and nut and motor, a combination of synchronous belt (or chain) and motor, a linear motor, a combination of linkage mechanism and motor, and so on.

[0053] Since each lifting bracket 25 is movably mounted in the corresponding translation bracket 26, and since the lifting drive assembly 23 is mounted on the two translation brackets 26, during the synchronous sliding of the two translation brackets 26 along the first direction x, the lifting drive assembly 23 and the two lifting brackets 25 can move synchronously with the two translation brackets 26 along the first direction x. This maintains the drive connection between the lifting drive assembly 23 and the two lifting brackets 25, reduces the risk of power transmission interruption due to misalignment of the lifting drive assembly 23 and the two lifting brackets 25 caused by translation, and maintains the continuity of power transmission.

[0054] The litter rake 21 is rotatably mounted between two lifting brackets 25, so that the litter rake 21 is located between two shelf plates 11. The litter rake 21 can be used to rak and separate clumped litter from the litter in the containment space between the two shelf plates 11.

[0055] The swing drive assembly 22 is connected to the end drive of the cat litter rake 21, and the swing drive assembly 22 can drive the cat litter rake 21 to swing relative to the two lifting brackets 25. The structure of the swing drive assembly 22 can be designed in various ways, such as using a combination of gear rack and pinion and motor, a servo motor or servo motor, a combination of crank rocker and motor, a combination of cam mechanism and motor, and so on.

[0056] Since the litter rake 21 is rotatably mounted between the two lifting brackets 25, and since the swing drive assembly 22 is mounted on at least one of the two lifting brackets 25, the swing drive assembly 22 and the litter rake 21 can move synchronously along the first direction x with the two lifting brackets 25 and the two translation brackets 26 during the synchronous sliding of the two translation brackets 26. Similarly, the swing drive assembly 22 and the litter rake 21 can move synchronously along the lifting direction y with the two lifting brackets 25 during the synchronous lifting and lowering of the two lifting brackets 25. Based on this, on the one hand, the drive connection between the swing drive assembly 22 and the litter rake 21 can be maintained, reducing the risk of power transmission interruption due to misalignment of the connection between the swing drive assembly 22 and the litter rake 21 caused by translation and lifting, thus maintaining the continuity of power transmission. On the other hand, it facilitates the coordinated execution of translation, lifting, and swinging actions by the litter rake 21, allowing the three actions of translation, lifting, and swinging of the litter rake 21 to be achieved through layered drive, ensuring that the movement paths of each component are independent and do not interfere with each other, thus maintaining functional stability.

[0057] In summary, the cat litter machine provided in this application embodiment can drive two translation brackets 26 to move synchronously along the first direction x via the translation drive component 24, and drive two lifting brackets 25, lifting drive component 23, swing drive component 22 and cat litter rake 21 to move synchronously along the first direction x with the two translation brackets 26, thereby realizing the translational movement of the cat litter rake 21; it can also drive two lifting brackets 25 to move synchronously up and down relative to the two translation brackets 26 via the lifting drive component 23, and drive the swing drive component 22 and cat litter rake 21 to move synchronously up and down with the two lifting brackets 25, thereby realizing the lifting and lowering movement of the cat litter rake 21; it can also drive the cat litter rake 21 to swing relative to the two lifting brackets 25 via the swing drive component 22, thereby realizing the swinging movement of the cat litter rake 21. Based on this, the litter rake 21 can achieve flexible movement in three-dimensional space through a combination of translation, lifting, and swinging layered drive. In particular, translation covers the horizontal area, lifting adjusts the depth of the litter rake 21, and swinging expands the angle coverage. The three actions work together to ensure that the movement path of the litter rake 21 basically covers the entire internal space of the litter box assembly 10. This allows the litter rake 21 to flexibly cut into the litter layer and rake and separate clumps of litter buried in different areas, effectively reducing cleaning dead corners caused by traditional single movement modes. It also allows the litter rake 21 to flexibly smooth the litter. In particular, the litter rake 21 can perform translation, lifting, and swinging actions in a coordinated manner. Each action can be performed synchronously as needed without interfering with each other, reducing the risk of action jamming or getting stuck. Based on the automated linkage of multiple actions (such as synchronous swinging during translation), it can reduce invalid travel (such as repeated back and forth), intermittent operation (such as single action), and inefficient operation (such as repeatedly scraping the same area), making the cleaning process efficient, convenient, and clean, and shortening the single cleaning cycle. Therefore, it can effectively reduce or even eliminate cleaning dead spots, effectively improve the cleaning power, cleaning effect, cleaning efficiency and cat litter smoothing effect of the litter machine, and effectively shorten the overall cleaning time.

[0058] like Figure 4 , Figure 5 As shown, in some embodiments, the sand rake mechanism 20 further includes a control component 27, which is mounted on at least one translation bracket 26. The swing drive component 22, the lifting drive component 23, and the translation drive component 24 are electrically connected and / or signal connected to the control component 27 (i.e., they can be electrically connected only, signal connected only, or both electrically and signal connected). The control component 27 can intelligently control the swing drive component 22, the lifting drive component 23, and the translation drive component 24.

[0059] Please see Figure 1 , Figure 3 , Figure 4 , Figure 5In some embodiments of this application, the sand basin assembly 10 is provided with two first racks 12 that extend along the first direction x and correspond one-to-one with the two support plates 11; the translation drive assembly 24 includes a first driver 241, a first synchronous shaft 242 and two first gears 243, the two first gears 243 meshing one-to-one with the two first racks 12, the first synchronous shaft 242 being connected between the two first gears 243, the two first gears 243 and the first synchronous shaft 242 rotating synchronously, the first driver 241 being installed inside one of the translation brackets 26 and being driven connected to the adjacent first gear 243.

[0060] It should be noted that the sand basin assembly 10 has two first racks 12 on the same side along the direction of gravity. The two first racks 12 are arranged one-to-one with the two support plates 11. The two first racks 12 are parallel and spaced apart from each other, and both extend along the first direction x. Correspondingly, there are two first gears 243. The two first gears 243 are arranged one-to-one with the two first racks 12. That is, each first gear 243 is located outside the corresponding translation bracket 26 and opposite the corresponding first rack 12. Each first gear 243 meshes with the corresponding first rack 12. Based on this, during the rotation of the first gear 243 around its own central axis, the first gear 243 can mesh with the first rack 12 at different positions due to the rotation, thereby realizing linear motion along the first rack 12. That is, the rotation of the first gear 243 can be converted into linear motion of the first gear 243 along the first rack 12. Furthermore, based on the extension direction of the first rack 12 along the first direction x, the linear motion path of the first gear 243 can be guided along the first direction x. Based on the extension length of the first rack 12 along the first direction x, the linear motion range of the first gear 243 can be constrained.

[0061] The first driver 241 is installed inside one of the translation brackets 26 to house and protect the first driver 241, thereby maintaining and improving its reliability and service life. The output end of the first driver 241 extends out of the translation bracket 26 and is driven by an adjacent first gear 243 (i.e., the first gear 243 arranged close to the first driver 241). The first driver 241 can output driving force to the first gear 243 connected to it to drive the first gear 243 to rotate around its own central axis. The first driver 241 may be, but is not limited to, a motor.

[0062] The two first gears 243 are connected by a first synchronous shaft 242, and the two first gears 243 and the first synchronous shaft 242 rotate synchronously. Based on this, under the drive of the first driver 241, the first gear 243 connected to the first driver 241 can drive the first synchronous shaft 242 and the other first gear 243 to rotate synchronously, so that the two first gears 243 move synchronously in a straight line along the two first racks 12, thereby enabling the two translational supports 26 to move synchronously along the first direction x.

[0063] By adopting the above scheme, the translation drive assembly 24 can drive the first gear 243, which is connected to the first driver 241, to rotate synchronously, thereby enabling the two first gears 243 to move synchronously in a straight line along the two first racks 12. Based on this, the translation drive assembly 24 can achieve synchronous movement of the two translation supports 26 along the first direction x with a simplified, optimized, and reliable structure, thereby improving the synchronicity and stability of the movement of the two translation supports 26 along the first direction x, and reducing the risks of movement lag, offset, misalignment, or jamming between the two translation supports 26 due to unilateral or independent driving. Furthermore, the meshing structure between the first gear 243 and the first rack 12 can provide high-precision linear guidance. Compared with belt or chain drive, it can reduce path deviation caused by slippage, elastic deformation, or uneven tension, making the translation movement precise and controllable, and improving the smoothness of the movement of the two translation supports 26 along the first direction x. Furthermore, only one first driver 241 is needed to drive the first gears 243 on both sides via the first synchronous shaft 242. Compared to the dual-motor solution on both sides, this saves installation space, reduces costs and energy consumption, and avoids problems related to coordination and synchronization control of dual motors on both sides. Thus, with mechanical rigid synchronization as the core, through single-drive dual-side linkage and rack and pinion precise guidance, the translational movement of the cat litter rake 21 can be achieved accurately, stably, controllably, and reliably, providing a stable, accurate, and efficient basic translational drive for the compound motion of the cat litter rake 21.

[0064] Of course, in other embodiments, the translation drive assembly 24 may be provided with two first drivers 241, and the two first gears 243 may be driven one-to-one by the two first drivers 241. In other embodiments, the translation drive assembly 24 may adopt other structural designs, such as a combination of synchronous belt and motor, a combination of lead screw and motor, or a linear motor, etc.

[0065] Please see Figure 4 , Figure 5 In some embodiments of this application, the first synchronous shaft 242 and the first gear 243 are interference-fitted.

[0066] By adopting the above solution, and by making the first synchronous shaft 242 and the first gear 243 interference fit, the assembly clearance between the first synchronous shaft 242 and the first gear 243 can be reduced. This ensures that the first synchronous shaft 242 and the first gear 243 are physically and forcibly fixed together without relative sliding or fretting, thereby enhancing transmission rigidity. It can also reduce the backlash that may occur with traditional keyway or clearance fits, and ensure that the two first gears 243 and the first synchronous shaft 242 rotate synchronously. This reduces motion lag or misalignment accumulation caused by minor sliding or fretting, thereby improving the synchronicity of the movement of the two translation brackets 26 along the first direction x and optimizing the performance of the translation drive assembly 24. Furthermore, the interference fit eliminates the need for auxiliary fasteners such as keys, pins, and screws, reducing the number of parts, simplifying and optimizing the structural design of the translation drive assembly 24, improving the structural and operational reliability of the translation drive assembly 24, and reducing assembly complexity.

[0067] Of course, in other embodiments, other designs can be used to make the two first gears 243 and the first synchronous shaft 242 rotate synchronously. For example, the first synchronous shaft 242 and the first gear 243 can be connected and fixed by keyways and fastening screws. Or, the first synchronous shaft 242 and the first gear 243 can be connected without keys by tapered expansion sleeves (or locking sleeves), and so on.

[0068] Please see Figure 1 , Figure 3 , Figure 4 In some embodiments of this application, the translation bracket 26 has an arc-shaped protective protrusion 261 on the side facing the frame plate 11, and the protective protrusion 261 is spaced apart on the side of the first gear 243 facing away from the first rack 12. That is, the protective protrusion 261 is located on the side of the first gear 243 facing away from the first rack 12, and the protective protrusion 261 is arc-shaped and spaced apart from the outer periphery of the first gear 243.

[0069] By adopting the above solution, an arc-shaped protective protrusion 261 can be used to form an arc-shaped barrier on the side of the first gear 243 facing away from the first rack 12, so as to effectively prevent foreign objects such as cat litter, dust, and clumps of debris from entering the meshing area of ​​the first gear 243 and the first rack 12. This can reduce the risk of transmission failure, accelerated wear of the first gear 243, and accelerated wear of the first rack 12 due to foreign object jamming, improve transmission reliability, structural reliability, operational reliability and service life, and reduce maintenance frequency.

[0070] Please see Figure 4 , Figure 5 , Figure 6In some embodiments of this application, each of the two lifting brackets 25 is provided with a second rack 251 extending along the lifting direction y on the same side along the first direction x; the lifting drive assembly 23 includes a second driver 231, a second synchronous shaft 232 and two second gears 233, the two second gears 233 meshing one-to-one with the second racks 251 of the two lifting brackets 25, the second synchronous shaft 232 being connected between the two second gears 233, the two second gears 233 and the second synchronous shaft 232 rotating synchronously, the second driver 231 being installed inside one of the translation brackets 26 and being driven connected to the adjacent second gear 233.

[0071] It should be noted that, on the same side along the first direction x, both lifting brackets 25 are provided with a second rack 251, which extends along the lifting direction y. Correspondingly, there are two second gears 233, which are arranged one-to-one with the two second racks 251. That is, each second gear 233 is located on the outside of the corresponding lifting bracket 25 and installed on the inside of the corresponding translation bracket 26, and each second gear 233 meshes with the corresponding second rack 251. Based on this, during the rotation of the second gear 233 around its own central axis, due to the rotation of the second gear 233 and the stability of the second gear 233 in the lifting direction y, the rotation of the second gear 233 can be converted into linear motion of the second rack 251 relative to the second gear 233, allowing the second rack 251 to mesh with the second gear 233 at different positions; furthermore, based on the extension direction of the second rack 251 along the lifting direction y, the linear motion path of the second rack 251 relative to the second gear 233 can be guided along the lifting direction y; and based on the extension length of the second rack 251 along the lifting direction y, the range of linear motion of the second rack 251 relative to the second gear 233 can be constrained.

[0072] The second driver 231 is installed inside one of the translation brackets 26 and outside the corresponding lifting bracket 25, so that the translation bracket 26 can accommodate and protect the second driver 231, thereby maintaining and improving the reliability and service life of the second driver 231. The output end of the second driver 231 is drivenly connected to the adjacent second gear 233 (i.e., the second gear 233 arranged close to the second driver 231). The second driver 231 can output driving force to the second gear 233 connected to it, so as to drive the second gear 233 connected to it to rotate around its own central axis. The second driver 231 can be, but is not limited to, a motor.

[0073] The two second gears 233 are connected by a second synchronous shaft 232, and the two second gears 233 and the second synchronous shaft 232 rotate synchronously. Based on this, under the drive of the second driver 231, the second gear 233 connected to the second driver 231 can drive the second synchronous shaft 232 and the other second gear 233 to rotate synchronously, so that the two second racks 251 move synchronously in a straight line relative to the two second gears 233, thereby enabling the two lifting brackets 25 to lift synchronously along the lifting direction y.

[0074] By adopting the above scheme, the lifting drive assembly 23 can drive the second gear 233, which is connected to the second driver 231, to rotate synchronously with the second synchronous shaft 232 and another second gear 233. This allows the two second racks 251 to move synchronously in the lifting direction y relative to the two second gears 233. Based on this, the lifting drive assembly 23 can achieve synchronous lifting of the two lifting brackets 25 in the lifting direction y with a simplified, optimized, and reliable structure, thereby improving the synchronicity and stability of the lifting movement of the two lifting brackets 25. This reduces the risks of movement lag, offset, misalignment, or jamming between the two lifting brackets 25 caused by unilateral or independent driving, and reduces the risk of tilting or uneven force on the cat litter rake 21. Furthermore, the meshing structure of the second gear 233 and the second rack 251 can provide high-precision linear guidance. Compared with belt or chain drive, it can reduce path deviation caused by slippage, elastic deformation, or uneven tension, making the lifting process smooth, reliable, and controllable, and improving the smoothness of the lifting movement of the two lifting brackets 25. Furthermore, only one second drive 231 is needed to drive the second gears 233 on both sides via the second synchronous shaft 232. Compared to the dual-motor solution on both sides, this saves installation space, reduces costs and energy consumption, and avoids problems related to coordination and synchronization control of dual motors on both sides. Thus, with mechanical rigid synchronization as the core, the lifting and lowering motion of the cat litter rake 21 can be accurately, stably, controllably, and reliably achieved through single-drive dual-side linkage and rack-and-pinion precise guidance, providing a stable, accurate, and efficient lifting drive foundation for the complex motion of the cat litter rake 21.

[0075] Of course, in other embodiments, the lifting drive assembly 23 may be provided with two second drivers 231, and the two second gears 233 may be driven one-to-one by the two second drivers 231. In other embodiments, the lifting drive assembly 23 may adopt other structural designs, such as a combination of a lead screw and nut and a motor, or a combination of a synchronous belt (or chain) and a motor, or a linear motor, or a combination of a linkage mechanism and a motor, etc.

[0076] Please see Figure 4 , Figure 5 , Figure 6In some embodiments of this application, the lifting drive assembly 23 includes a roller 234, which rolls in contact with the side of any lifting bracket 25 along the first direction x, and the central axis of the roller 234 is parallel to the central axis of the second gear 233.

[0077] It should be noted that the number of rollers 234 can be one or more. Only one lifting bracket 25 may have rollers 234 distributed on its side, or both lifting brackets 25 may have rollers 234 distributed on their sides. For lifting brackets 25 with rollers 234 distributed on their sides, all rollers 234 may be located on the same side of the lifting bracket 25 along the first direction x, or each roller 234 may be located on opposite sides of the lifting bracket 25 along the first direction x.

[0078] Roller 234 is mounted on the inner side of the corresponding translation bracket 26. Roller 234 can rotate around its own central axis, which is parallel to the central axis of the second gear 233. Roller 234 makes rolling contact with the corresponding side of the corresponding lifting bracket 25. Roller 234 is not driven by the second driver 231. During the lifting and lowering movement of the lifting bracket 25 relative to the translation bracket 26, roller 234 can roll adaptively with the lifting and lowering movement of the lifting bracket 25.

[0079] By adopting the above solution, the lifting drive assembly 23 can replace sliding friction with rolling friction by adding rollers 234 that roll in contact with the sides of the lifting bracket 25. This significantly reduces frictional resistance and wear, thereby improving the smoothness and fluidity of the lifting movement of the lifting bracket 25, reducing movement jamming and operating noise, and improving the reliability and service life of both the lifting drive assembly 23 and the lifting bracket 25. Furthermore, the rollers 234 can provide support on the sides of the lifting bracket 25, promoting lateral force balance and reducing the risk of swaying or tilting during lifting movements, thus improving the stability of the lifting movement of the lifting bracket 25.

[0080] Please see Figure 4 , Figure 5 , Figure 6 In some embodiments of this application, a roller 234 is provided on the side of the lifting bracket 25 disposed on the opposite side of the second driver 231.

[0081] It should be noted that the aforementioned rollers 234 are mainly arranged on the side of the lifting bracket 25, which is located on the opposite side of the second driver 231, along the first direction x, so that the rollers 234 roll in contact with the side of the lifting bracket 25, which is located on the opposite side of the second driver 231. For the lifting bracket 25, which is located on the opposite side of the second driver 231, one or more rollers 234 may be arranged on its side. All rollers 234 may be located on the same side of the lifting bracket 25 along the first direction x, or each roller 234 may be arranged on opposite sides of the lifting bracket 25 along the first direction x.

[0082] For the lifting bracket 25 located on the opposite side of the second driver 231, the driving force for lifting the lifting bracket 25 is transmitted from the second driver 231 on the opposite side, the second gear 233 on the opposite side, the second synchronous shaft 232, and the second gear 233 on the same side. Therefore, by adopting the above solution, rollers 234 can be provided on the side of the lifting bracket 25 located on the opposite side of the second driver 231 to provide support for the lifting bracket 25 located on the opposite side of the second driver 231, thereby offsetting the torsion or off-center load that may occur due to long-distance power transmission. This can promote the balanced force on both sides of the lifting bracket 25, optimize the balance of power transmission, and reduce the asynchronous movement or structural deformation caused by unilateral overload. Furthermore, the roller 234, by replacing sliding contact with low-friction rolling, reduces the motion resistance of the lifting bracket 25 located on the opposite side of the second actuator 231, thereby reducing energy loss and enabling more efficient conversion of cross-side power into lifting motion. This reduces motion lag or jamming caused by frictional resistance, thus improving the smoothness and fluidity of the lifting bracket 25's lifting motion. Additionally, the roller 234 can assist in constraining the lateral degree of freedom of the lifting bracket 25 located on the opposite side of the second actuator 231, complementing the main transmission of the second gear 233 and the second rack 251, thereby improving the synchronization accuracy of the lifting motion of both lifting brackets 25 and reducing minor lag caused by the transmission chain.

[0083] Please see Figure 4 , Figure 5 , Figure 6 In some embodiments of this application, the second synchronous shaft 232 and the second gear 233 are interference-fitted.

[0084] By adopting the above solution, and by using an interference fit between the second synchronous shaft 232 and the second gear 233, the assembly clearance between them can be reduced. This ensures a physical, forced connection between the two gears, preventing relative sliding or fretting, thus enhancing transmission rigidity. It also reduces the backlash that might occur with traditional keyway or clearance fits, ensuring synchronized rotation of the two gears 233 and the second synchronous shaft 232. This reduces motion lag or misalignment caused by minor sliding or fretting, thereby improving the synchronicity of the lifting and lowering movements of the two lifting brackets 25 and optimizing the performance of the lifting drive assembly 23. Furthermore, the interference fit eliminates the need for keys, pins, screws, and other auxiliary fasteners, reducing the number of parts, simplifying and optimizing the structural design of the lifting drive assembly 23, improving its structural and operational reliability, and reducing assembly complexity.

[0085] Of course, in other embodiments, other designs can be used to make the two second gears 233 and the second synchronous shaft 232 rotate synchronously. For example, the second synchronous shaft 232 and the second gear 233 can be connected and fixed by keyways and fastening screws. Or, the second synchronous shaft 232 and the second gear 233 can be connected without keys by tapered expansion sleeves (or locking sleeves), and so on.

[0086] Please see Figure 4 , Figure 5 , Figure 6 In some embodiments of this application, at least one lifting bracket 25 is provided with a third rack 252 extending along the lifting direction y, and the third rack 252 and the second rack 251 are respectively disposed on opposite sides of the lifting bracket 25 along the first direction x.

[0087] By adopting the above scheme, the third rack 252 and the second rack 251 are located on both sides of the lifting bracket 25, forming a symmetrical layout, which is conducive to enhancing the structural rigidity, structural reliability and operational reliability of the lifting bracket 25.

[0088] This embodiment is particularly suitable for use in conjunction with the previous embodiment. For the lifting bracket 25 disposed on the opposite side of the second driver 231, if rollers 234 are provided on both sides of the lifting bracket 25 along the first direction x, then a portion of the rollers 234 can roll in contact with the second rack 251, while another portion of the rollers 234 can roll in contact with the third rack 252. Based on this, the movement resistance of the lifting bracket 25 along the opposite sides of the first direction x can be reduced evenly, and the movement delay or jamming caused by frictional resistance can be reduced, thereby improving the smoothness and fluidity of the lifting movement of the lifting bracket 25.

[0089] Please see Figure 5 , Figure 6 , Figure 7In some embodiments of this application, one of the lifting brackets 25 is a first lifting bracket 25a, and the swing drive assembly 22 is installed inside the first lifting bracket 25a. The swing drive assembly 22 includes a swing arm 221, a third driver 222, and a third gear 223. The swing arm 221 is connected to the cat litter rake 21 and swings synchronously. The third gear 223 is rotatably installed at the end of the swing arm 221 away from the cat litter rake 21. The third driver 222 is installed on the swing arm 221 and is drivenly connected to the third gear 223. The first lifting bracket 25a is provided with a fourth rack 253 inside. The fourth rack 253 extends circumferentially around the swing axis L of the swing arm 221 in an arc shape and is correspondingly arranged with the third gear 223. The third gear 223 meshes with the fourth rack 253.

[0090] It should be noted that one of the two lifting brackets 25 is the first lifting bracket 25a, and the first lifting bracket 25a can be a lifting bracket 25 disposed on the same side as the second driver 231 (e.g., Figure 5 (As shown), it can also be a lifting bracket 25 disposed on the opposite side of the second driver 231.

[0091] The swing drive assembly 22 is installed inside the first lifting bracket 25a to maintain the drive connection between the swing drive assembly 22 and the litter rake 21, thereby reducing the risk of power transmission interruption due to misalignment of the connection between the swing drive assembly 22 and the litter rake 21 caused by translation or lifting, thus maintaining the continuity of power transmission. Furthermore, the first lifting bracket 25a can accommodate and protect the swing drive assembly 22, thereby maintaining and improving the reliability and service life of the swing drive assembly 22.

[0092] It should also be noted that the swing drive assembly 22 includes a swing arm 221, a third driver 222, and a third gear 223.

[0093] One end of the swing arm 221 is connected to the litter rake 21, and the swing arm 221 and the litter rake 21 swing synchronously. Figure 7 , Figure 8 As shown, in some embodiments, one end of the swing arm 221 is provided with a limiting groove 2211, and the end of the cat litter rake 21 is bent and inserted into the limiting groove 2211 to achieve the effect of limiting connection.

[0094] The third gear 223 is installed at the end of the swing arm 221 away from the litter rake 21. The third gear 223 can rotate around its own central axis. The central axis of the third gear 223 (i.e. the rotation axis of the third gear 223) is basically perpendicular to the swing axis L of the swing arm 221.

[0095] The third actuator 222 is mounted between the two ends of the swing arm 221. The output end of the third actuator 222 is connected to the third gear 223, and the third actuator 222 can output driving force to the third gear 223 to drive the third gear 223 to rotate around its own central axis. The third actuator 222 can be, but is not limited to, a motor.

[0096] The first lifting bracket 25a has a fourth rack 253 inside, which extends circumferentially around the swing axis L of the swing arm 221 in an arc shape. The fourth rack 253 is correspondingly and aligned with the third gear 223 so that the third gear 223 can mesh with the fourth rack 253.

[0097] Based on this, driven by the third actuator 222, the third gear 223 can rotate around its own central axis, and the third gear 223 can mesh with the fourth rack 253 at different positions due to rotation, thereby realizing circumferential movement along the fourth rack 253. That is, the rotation of the third gear 223 can be converted into circumferential movement of the third gear 223 along the fourth rack 253. Based on this, as the third gear 223 moves circumferentially along the fourth rack 253, the swing arm 221 can drive the cat litter rake 21 to swing around the swing axis L of the swing arm 221. Among them, based on the extension direction of the fourth rack 253, the movement path of the third gear 223 can be guided to be arc-shaped around the swing axis L of the swing arm 221; based on the extension length of the fourth rack 253, the circumferential movement range of the third gear 223 can be constrained.

[0098] By adopting the above scheme, the swing drive assembly 22 can drive the third gear 223, which is connected to the third driver 222, to rotate via the third driver 222. This allows the third gear 223 to move circumferentially along the arc-shaped fourth rack 253, thereby causing the swing arm 221 to drive the litter rake 21 to swing synchronously. Furthermore, the fourth rack 253 provides a precise arc-shaped motion trajectory for the third gear 223, constraining the swing amplitude of the swing arm 221 and the litter rake 21, thus ensuring that the swing motion of the swing arm 221 and the litter rake 21 is precise, stable, and controllable. Moreover, the meshing structure of the third gear 223 and the fourth rack 253 provides more direct power transmission compared to linkage or belt drives, enabling rapid adjustment of the swing angle and reducing response delay or slippage risk during swinging. This is particularly suitable for high-frequency, small-angle swing requirements. Therefore, the swing drive component 22 can realize the swing action of the cat litter rake 21 in a simplified, optimized and reliable structure, which is accurate, stable, controllable and reliable. It is convenient to dynamically adjust the angle of the cat litter rake 21 during translation or lifting, so as to enhance the smoothness of multi-action linkage and provide a stable, accurate and efficient swing drive foundation for the compound movement of the cat litter rake 21.

[0099] Furthermore, compared to other solutions such as "setting a small-diameter gear at the end of the litter rake 21 and directly driving the small-diameter gear and the litter rake 21 to rotate", this embodiment extends the lever arm by swing arm 221. Combined with the meshing transmission of the third gear 223 and the fourth rack 253, the driving torque on the litter rake 21 can be significantly increased. This allows the litter rake 21 to have sufficient force to efficiently and reliably rake and filter clumped cat litter (especially clumped cat litter that sticks to the bottom or tightly clumped cat litter), thereby improving the cleaning power, cleaning effect, and cleaning efficiency of the litter machine. Increasing the lever arm also reduces the output torque required by the third drive 222, making it easier to select a compact, low-power third drive 222. This reduces the risk of the third drive 222 becoming bulky due to high load requirements, thus saving space occupied by the third drive 222 and the swing drive assembly 22. This optimizes space utilization and is conducive to the compact, miniaturized, lightweight, and aesthetically pleasing design of the overall structure, which helps to reduce costs.

[0100] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the swing drive component 22 is set inside only one of the lifting brackets 25. Compared with other solutions where the swing drive component 22 is set in both lifting brackets 25, the number of parts and structure can be simplified, installation space can be saved, cost and energy consumption can be reduced, and difficulties such as "power transmission and synchronous rotation control of dual gears on both sides" and "coordination and synchronous control of dual motors on both sides" can be avoided.

[0101] Of course, in other embodiments, two swing drive components 22 may be provided and disposed inside the two lifting brackets 25 respectively; the two swing drive components 22 may share a third driver 222, or each may have its own third driver 222; the third gears 223 of the two swing drive components 22 may be connected by a synchronous shaft to maintain synchronous rotation. In other embodiments, the swing drive components 22 may adopt other structural designs, such as a servo motor or a crank-rocker combination, or a cam mechanism combination, etc.

[0102] Please see Figure 4 , Figure 5 In some embodiments of this application, the drivers of the swing drive assembly 22, the lifting drive assembly 23, and the translation drive assembly 24 are all installed inside the same translation bracket 26.

[0103] It should be noted that the drivers of the swing drive assembly 22, the lifting drive assembly 23, and the translation drive assembly 24 are the third driver 222 of the swing drive assembly 22, the second driver 231 of the lifting drive assembly 23, and the first driver 241 of the translation drive assembly 24.

[0104] By adopting the above solution, and by uniformly installing the drives of the swing drive assembly 22, the lifting drive assembly 23, and the translation drive assembly 24 inside the same translation bracket 26, it is convenient to centrally arrange all the drives. Based on this, on the one hand, the overall structure can be compactly laid out, optimizing space utilization and facilitating the assembly, manufacturing, maintenance, and repair of the entire cat litter machine, especially the maintenance and repair of the drives of the swing drive assembly 22, the lifting drive assembly 23, and the translation drive assembly 24, reducing assembly and manufacturing costs and maintenance costs, and lowering the failure rate. On the other hand, it facilitates the wiring of each drive, reducing the risk of exposed or tangled cables caused by dispersed installation, reducing the possibility of interference or obstruction of moving parts (such as the lifting bracket 25 and the litter rake 21) by cables, improving the smoothness and coordination of translation, lifting, and swing movements, and enhancing the overall reliability of the cat litter machine.

[0105] Of course, in other embodiments, the drivers of the swing drive assembly 22, the lifting drive assembly 23, and the translation drive assembly 24 can be arranged on the same side for two of them and on the opposite side for the other.

[0106] Please see Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 4 In some embodiments of this application, the translation bracket 26 is provided with two limiting protrusions 262 on the side facing the frame plate 11. The two limiting protrusions 262 are spaced apart from each other and both extend along the first direction x. The two limiting protrusions 262 are respectively limited and fitted to the opposite sides of the frame plate 11.

[0107] It should be noted that the translation bracket 26 has two limiting protrusions 262 on the side facing the frame plate 11. Both limiting protrusions 262 extend along the first direction x and are spaced apart from each other along the direction of gravity. A slide rail is formed between the two limiting protrusions 262 to slide with the frame plate 11. The two limiting protrusions 262 are respectively limited and engaged on opposite sides of the frame plate 11, so that the translation bracket 26 can be slidably installed on the frame plate 11.

[0108] By adopting the above scheme, the translation bracket 26 can be positioned and fitted onto opposite sides of the frame plate 11 by two mutually spaced, oppositely positioned limiting protrusions 262 that both extend along the first direction x, forming a slide rail that slides with the frame plate 11. Based on this, the translation bracket 26 can be conveniently, quickly, stably, and reliably installed on the frame plate 11 without additional calibration, reducing assembly complexity and improving assembly convenience and efficiency. Furthermore, based on the limiting fit between the two limiting protrusions 262 and the sides of the frame plate 11, the movement direction of the translation bracket 26 relative to the frame plate 11 can be guided, and the travel distance of the translation bracket 26 relative to the frame plate 11 can be constrained, reducing swaying and track deviation during movement, and improving translation stability and smoothness. Furthermore, the two limiting protrusions 262 are distributed on both sides of the frame plate 11, which can form symmetrical support, make the force on the translation bracket 26 balanced, reduce deformation or jamming caused by unilateral wear, and improve the reliability and service life of the translation bracket 26.

[0109] Please see Figure 1 In some embodiments of this application, the cat litter rake 21 is a metal part.

[0110] By adopting the above solution and making the litter rake 21 a metal part, on the one hand, the litter rake 21 has strong mechanical strength and can withstand the frequent forces during the translation, lifting, and swinging processes, thereby reducing the risk of breakage or damage due to insufficient strength and improving the reliability and service life of the litter rake 21; on the other hand, the litter rake 21 has slight elasticity and can deform slightly when in contact with clumps of litter, which balances the raking force to optimize the cleaning effect and efficiency, while reducing the possibility of hard scratching damage to the litter box assembly 10.

[0111] Of course, in other embodiments, the cat litter rake 21 may be a non-metallic component.

[0112] The above are merely optional embodiments of this application and are not intended to limit this application. Various modifications and variations can be made to this application by those skilled in the art. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc., made within the spirit and principles of this application should be included within the scope of the claims of this application.

Claims

1. A cat litter machine, characterized in that, include: A sand basin assembly includes two frame plates that are arranged opposite to each other and both extend along a first direction; A litter rake mechanism includes a litter rake, a swing drive assembly, a lifting drive assembly, a translation drive assembly, two lifting brackets, and two translation brackets. The two translation brackets are slidably mounted one-to-one on two mounting plates. The translation drive assembly is connected to the two translation brackets to drive the two translation brackets to move synchronously along a first direction. The two lifting brackets are lifted one-to-one in the two translation brackets. The lifting drive assembly is mounted on the two translation brackets and connected to the two lifting brackets to drive the two lifting brackets to lift synchronously. The litter rake is rotatably mounted between the two lifting brackets. The swing drive assembly is mounted on at least one of the lifting brackets and connected to the litter rake to drive the litter rake to swing relative to the lifting bracket.

2. The cat litter machine as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The sand basin assembly is provided with two first racks that extend along the first direction and correspond one-to-one with the two frame plates. The translation drive assembly includes a first driver, a first synchronous shaft, and two first gears. The two first gears mesh one-to-one with two first racks. The first synchronous shaft is connected between the two first gears. The two first gears and the first synchronous shaft rotate synchronously. The first driver is installed inside one of the translation brackets and is driven and connected to the adjacent first gear.

3. The cat litter machine as described in claim 2, characterized in that, The first synchronous shaft is interference-fitted with the first gear; And / or, the translation bracket has an arc-shaped protective protrusion on the side facing the frame plate, and the protective protrusion is spaced apart on the side of the first gear facing away from the first rack.

4. The cat litter machine as described in claim 1, characterized in that, Both of the aforementioned lifting brackets are provided with a second rack extending along the lifting direction on the same side along the first direction; The lifting drive assembly includes a second driver, a second synchronous shaft, and two second gears. The two second gears mesh one-to-one with the second racks of the two lifting brackets. The second synchronous shaft is connected between the two second gears. The two second gears and the second synchronous shaft rotate synchronously. The second driver is installed inside one of the translation brackets and is driven by the adjacent second gear.

5. The cat litter machine as described in claim 4, characterized in that, The lifting drive assembly includes a roller that rolls in contact with any side of the lifting bracket along the first direction, and the central axis of the roller is parallel to the central axis of the second gear.

6. The cat litter machine as described in claim 5, characterized in that, The roller is provided on the side of the lifting bracket, which is located on the opposite side of the second driver.

7. The cat litter machine as described in claim 4, characterized in that, The second synchronous shaft is interference-fitted with the second gear; And / or, at least one of the lifting brackets is provided with a third rack extending along the lifting direction, the third rack and the second rack being respectively disposed on opposite sides of the lifting bracket along the first direction.

8. The cat litter machine as described in any one of claims 1-7, characterized in that, One of the lifting brackets is a first lifting bracket, and the swing drive assembly is installed inside the first lifting bracket; The swing drive assembly includes a swing arm, a third driver, and a third gear. The swing arm is connected to the cat litter rake and swings synchronously. The third gear is rotatably mounted on the end of the swing arm away from the cat litter rake. The third driver is mounted on the swing arm and drivenly connected to the third gear. The first lifting bracket has a fourth rack inside. The fourth rack extends circumferentially around the swing axis of the swing arm in an arc shape and is correspondingly arranged with the third gear, which meshes with the fourth rack.

9. The cat litter machine as described in any one of claims 1-7, characterized in that, The drivers for the swing drive assembly, the lifting drive assembly, and the translation drive assembly are all installed inside the same translation bracket.

10. The cat litter machine as described in any one of claims 1-7, characterized in that, The translation bracket has two limiting protrusions on one side facing the frame plate. The two limiting protrusions are spaced apart from each other and extend along the first direction. The two limiting protrusions are respectively limited and engaged on the opposite sides of the frame plate. And / or, the litter rake is made of metal.

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