Load balancing device and washing machine comprising the same

Abstract

The utility model provides a kind of load balancing device and the washing machine comprising it.The load balancing device includes: box side connecting component;Torsion bar beam, it is connected to box side connecting component, and it can rotate relative thereto;Two cylinder side connecting components are arranged at intervals along horizontal direction, one of which is used to be connected to one of the cylinder, and the other is used to be connected to one of the remaining cylinder, and both ends of torsion bar beam are provided in two cylinder side connecting components.Load balancing device is configured to be able to switch between first working state and second working state;When first working state, one end of torsion bar beam can rotate relative to cylinder side connecting component, and the other end can rotate in the same direction;When second working state, both ends of torsion bar beam form gap with cylinder side connecting component in any radial direction of limiting hole.The load balancing device can balance the load on both sides, so that the load on the washing side is reduced, the door seal deformation is reduced, and the creep problem is improved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model relates to the field of washing machines, and in particular to a load balancing device and a washing machine containing the same. Background Technology

[0002] Washing machines typically carry a large amount of clothes and water during the washing process, and this weight can cause significant deformation of the washing machine's suspension system. In dual-section structures with two drums, when one section is washing, the suspension on one side of the drum will deform more, while the section not being washed will deform less.

[0003] The side with greater deformation of the cylinder will experience greater tensile deformation of the door seal due to the larger relative displacement between the cylinder and the housing. Since the door seal is made of rubber, it will experience static creep under long-term unilateral washing and pressure conditions. This alters the effect of the rubber door seal on the cylinder's movement during dehydration, consequently affecting the overall dehydration vibration and noise performance of the machine, and may even cause damage to the door seal.

[0004] Therefore, existing washing machines are prone to affecting the overall spin-drying vibration and noise performance due to the large difference in the suspension deformation of the two drums, and are also prone to damage to the door seal. Utility Model Content

[0005] The technical problem to be solved by this utility model is to overcome the defects in the prior art that washing machines are prone to affecting the overall dehydration vibration and noise performance due to the large difference in the suspension deformation of the two sides of the drum, and are prone to damage to the door seal. The present invention provides a load balancing device and a washing machine including the present invention.

[0006] The present invention solves the above-mentioned technical problems through the following technical solution:

[0007] A load balancing device is provided for installation between the drum and the cabinet of a washing machine, the washing machine including at least two drums arranged horizontally, the load balancing device comprising:

[0008] A housing-side connection assembly for mounting on the housing;

[0009] A torsion beam is connected to the box-side connecting assembly and is rotatable relative to the box-side connecting assembly;

[0010] Two cylindrical side connecting assemblies are arranged at intervals along the horizontal direction. One of the cylindrical side connecting assemblies is used to connect to one of the cylindrical bodies, and the other cylindrical side connecting assemblies is used to connect to one of the remaining cylindrical bodies. The two ends of the torsion beam pass through the limiting holes on the two cylindrical side connecting assemblies respectively.

[0011] The load balancing device is configured to switch between a first operating state and a second operating state.

[0012] In the first working state, one end of the torsion beam can rotate relative to the cylinder side connection assembly under the gravity of the corresponding cylinder, and the other end of the torsion beam can rotate in the same direction.

[0013] In the second working state, the two ends of the torsion beam form a gap with the cylinder side connection assembly in any radial direction of the limiting hole.

[0014] In this design, when the left side of the drum descends due to load, the left end of the torsion beam rotates downwards through the limiting hole of the drum-side connecting component. This causes the entire torsion beam to rotate in the same direction, meaning the right end of the torsion beam also rotates in the same direction, and the load balancing device is in the first working state described above. On the right side, the rotation of the torsion beam causes the right-side drum to deform downwards through the limiting hole of the right-side drum-side connecting component. However, due to the different downward deformation states of the left and right sides of the drum (greater deformation on the left and relatively smaller deformation on the right), the torsion beam will generate a certain degree of torsional deformation. Viewed from left to right along the axial direction of the torsion beam, it can generate a counterclockwise torque, thereby limiting the further descent of the left side of the drum and achieving a certain degree of balance in load distribution between the left and right sides. In other words, this load balancing device allows the other side of the drum to partially bear the load while one side is washing, thus balancing the load on both sides, reducing the load on the washing side, reducing door seal deformation, and improving creep issues. When the load on the drum is greatly reduced, the deformation of the washing machine's suspension system decreases, the displacement of the drum decreases, and the torsion beam of the load balancing device can disengage from the drum side connection. The load balancing device is in the second working state mentioned above and will not generate additional constraint stiffness on the operation of the drum, which is conducive to maintaining the vibration isolation performance of the suspension system during high-speed spin-drying.

[0015] Preferably, the torsion beam includes a first horizontal connecting portion, two second horizontal connecting portions, and two vertical connecting portions. The vertical connecting portions have a first end and a second end along the axial direction. The first ends of the two vertical connecting portions are respectively perpendicularly connected to the two ends of the first horizontal connecting portion. The two second horizontal connecting portions are respectively perpendicularly connected to the second ends of the two vertical connecting portions. The first horizontal connecting portion and the second horizontal connecting portions are staggered along the axial direction of the vertical connecting portions.

[0016] The first horizontal connecting portion is connected to the box-side connecting assembly and is rotatable relative to the box-side connecting assembly;

[0017] The two second horizontal connecting portions are respectively inserted into the two cylindrical side connecting assemblies.

[0018] In this solution, the load balancing device has a simple structure, which helps to simplify the overall structure of the load balancing device, and thus helps to simplify the structure of the washing machine.

[0019] Preferably, the box-side connecting assembly includes a crossbeam and a box-side connecting seat disposed at the bottom of the crossbeam;

[0020] The two ends of the crossbeam are used to connect to the inner wall of the box body, the box body side connecting seat is sleeved on the outside of the first horizontal connecting part, and the first horizontal connecting part can rotate relative to the box body side connecting seat.

[0021] In this design, the aforementioned structural configuration allows for more flexibility in positioning the load balancing device, enabling its installation in the desired location. The connection between the torsion beam and the box-side connecting seat is achieved by sleeved onto the outside of the first horizontal connecting portion. This connection method is relatively simple and ensures the torsion beam can rotate as needed.

[0022] Preferably, there are multiple box-side connecting seats, and the multiple box-side connecting seats are spaced apart along the axial direction of the first horizontal connecting portion.

[0023] In this scheme, the above-mentioned structural configuration, with multiple box-side connecting seats, helps to improve the reliability of the connection between the torsion beam and the box, thereby helping to ensure the normal operation of the load balancing device.

[0024] Preferably, the cylinder-side connecting assembly includes at least one cylinder-side connecting part, and the cylinder-side connecting part is provided with the limiting hole;

[0025] The cylindrical side connection portion is designed to be adapted to the shape of the cylindrical body on one side facing the cylindrical body.

[0026] Preferably, the limiting hole is a circular hole, and the second horizontal connecting part is a cylindrical structure;

[0027] And / or, in the second working state, the second horizontal connecting portion is coaxial with the limiting hole.

[0028] In this design, the limiting hole is set as a circular hole, and the second horizontal connecting part is set as a cylindrical structure. This facilitates the rotation of the second horizontal connecting part relative to the limiting hole, thereby ensuring the normal operation of the load balancing device. In the second working state, the second horizontal connecting part is set to be coaxial with the limiting hole, which helps to ensure the smooth rotation of the subsequent torsion beam.

[0029] Preferably, the two second horizontal connecting portions are symmetrically arranged about the first horizontal connecting portion;

[0030] And / or, the first horizontal connecting portion, the vertical connecting portion, and the second horizontal connecting portion are integrally formed.

[0031] In this design, the two second horizontal connecting parts are symmetrically arranged about the first horizontal connecting part, which helps ensure the overall stability of the load balancing device and the balancing effect. The first horizontal connecting part, the vertical connecting part, and the second horizontal connecting part are integrally formed, which facilitates processing and simplifies the structure of the torsion beam.

[0032] This utility model also provides a washing machine, which includes a cabinet and at least two drums spaced apart in a horizontal direction, and the washing machine also includes the above-mentioned load balancing device.

[0033] Preferably, the number of drums is two, and the two drums are connected horizontally by a drum connecting part. The washing machine also includes two oppositely arranged suspension devices, which are respectively connected between the top of the two drums and the cabinet to suspend the two drums from the cabinet.

[0034] Preferably, the suspension device includes:

[0035] A first support, the first end of which is connected to the cylinder;

[0036] The second bracket, the first end of which is connected to the housing;

[0037] An elastic support assembly, wherein a first end of the elastic support assembly is connected to a second end of the first bracket, and a second end of the elastic support assembly is connected to a second end of the second bracket, the elastic support assembly includes a vibration isolation support unit and a washing support unit made of elastic material, the vibration isolation support unit includes a first vibration isolation support part and a second vibration isolation support part supported between the first bracket and the second bracket, the first vibration isolation support part and the second vibration isolation support part are disposed opposite to each other and form a receiving cavity with the first bracket and the second bracket;

[0038] The washing support unit includes a first washing support and a second washing support respectively disposed in the first vibration isolation support and the second vibration isolation support. The first washing support and the second washing support are disposed opposite to each other and are both located in the receiving cavity.

[0039] The washing support unit is configured to switch between a first position state and a second position state as the weight of the drum changes.

[0040] When in the first position state, the first washing support part and the second washing support part are separated;

[0041] When in the second position, the first washing support and the second washing support are in contact with each other.

[0042] In this design, the elastic support assembly includes a vibration-damping support unit and a washing support unit made of elastic material. This arrangement helps reduce vibrations transmitted from the drum to the housing and provides flexible buffering for the drum's vibrations. Furthermore, the first and second vibration-damping support units are positioned opposite each other, forming a receiving cavity with the first and second supports. This arrangement increases the support area of ​​the vibration-damping support unit on the housing, improving its support effect and avoiding concentrated support at a single point, which could easily damage the vibration-damping support unit. The washing support unit can adjust to changes in the drum's weight. The tension on the washing support unit from the first support changes positively with the drum's weight, causing the first washing support unit to move closer to or further away from the second washing support unit, switching between a first position and a second position. In other words, the suspension device can flexibly isolate and buffer vibrations from changes in the drum's weight. When the tension on the vibration isolation support unit is less than a threshold, the first washing support is in a first position separated from the second washing support. At this time, the elastic support assembly has low stiffness, and the drum is only subjected to the buffering and vibration damping effect of the vibration isolation support unit. When the weight of the drum increases or the center of gravity shifts to a preset position, the deformation of the vibration isolation support unit is large, and the tension on the vibration isolation support unit exceeds the threshold. At this time, the first washing support is in a second position abutting against the second washing support. At this time, the elastic support assembly has higher stiffness, providing better support for the drum. Both the vibration isolation support unit and the washing support unit simultaneously buffer and dampen the drum, thus achieving dynamic adjustment of the suspension device's stiffness according to the drum's weight. This improves the buffering and vibration damping effect of the suspension device under different operating conditions of the washing machine, thereby optimizing the washing machine's vibration isolation rate. Furthermore, the suspension device includes a washing support unit and a vibration isolation support unit, with the washing support unit mounted on the vibration isolation support unit, making the suspension device more compact and saving space.

[0043] The positive and progressive effects of this utility model are as follows:

[0044] In this application, when the left side of the drum descends due to load, the left end of the torsion beam rotates downward through the limiting hole of the drum-side connecting component, causing the entire torsion beam to rotate in the same direction, i.e., the right end of the torsion beam also rotates in the same direction. The load balancing device is in the first working state described above. On the right side, the rotation of the torsion beam causes the right side of the drum to deform downward through the limiting hole of the right side of the drum-side connecting component. However, due to the different downward deformation states of the left and right sides of the drum (the deformation is greater on the left and relatively smaller on the right), the torsion beam will generate a certain torsional deformation. Looking along the axial direction of the torsion beam from left to right, the torsion beam can generate a counterclockwise torque, thereby limiting the further descent of the left side of the drum and achieving a certain degree of balance in the load on both sides. In other words, when one side of the drum is washing, the other side of the drum can also partially bear the load, thereby balancing the load on both sides, reducing the load on the washing side, reducing door seal deformation, and improving creep problems. When the load on the drum is greatly reduced, the deformation of the washing machine's suspension system decreases, the displacement of the drum decreases, and the torsion beam of the load balancing device can disengage from the drum side connection. The load balancing device is in the second working state mentioned above and will not generate additional constraint stiffness on the operation of the drum, which is conducive to maintaining the vibration isolation performance of the suspension system during high-speed spin-drying. Attached Figure Description

[0045] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram (I) of a preferred embodiment of the washing machine of the present invention.

[0046] Figure 2 To and Figure 1 A partial structural diagram of the corresponding washing machine.

[0047] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram (II) of the structure of a washing machine according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

[0048] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram (III) of the structure of a washing machine according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

[0049] Figure 5 To and Figure 4 A partial structural diagram of the corresponding washing machine.

[0050] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the load balancing device according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

[0051] Figure 7 This is a partial structural schematic diagram (I) of a preferred embodiment of the washing machine of the present invention.

[0052] Figure 8 This is a partial structural schematic diagram (II) of a washing machine according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

[0053] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the hanging device of a washing machine according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

[0054] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0055] Suspension device 100

[0056] First support 1

[0057] First mounting plate 11

[0058] Installation component 12

[0059] Second support 2

[0060] Receiving cavity 21

[0061] Second mounting plate 23

[0062] Elastic support component 3

[0063] First vibration isolation support 311

[0064] Second vibration isolation support 312

[0065] First washing support section 321

[0066] First washing support section 322

[0067] First vibration isolation installation section 33

[0068] Second vibration isolation installation part 34

[0069] Mounting hole 35

[0070] Washing machine 200

[0071] 300 box

[0072] 400 cylinder

[0073] Load balancing device 500

[0074] Box side connection assembly 600

[0075] 6001 crossbeam

[0076] Box side connecting seat 6002

[0077] Torsion beam 700

[0078] First horizontal connection part 7001

[0079] Vertical connection part 7002

[0080] Second horizontal connection part 7003

[0081] 800 cylinder side connection assembly

[0082] Limiting hole 8001

[0083] 8002 cylinder side connection part

[0084] 900mm cylinder connection Detailed Implementation

[0085] The present invention will be described more clearly and completely below with reference to the accompanying drawings, using a preferred embodiment.

[0086] like Figures 1 to 6 As shown, this embodiment provides a load balancing device 500 and a washing machine 200 including the same. The load balancing device 500 is used to install between the drum 400 and the cabinet 300 of the washing machine 200. The washing machine 200 includes at least two drums 400 arranged in a horizontal direction. Specifically, the load balancing device 500 includes a cabinet-side connecting assembly 600, a torsion beam 700, and two drum-side connecting assemblies 800 spaced apart in a horizontal direction. The cabinet-side connecting assembly 600 is used to install on the cabinet 300; the torsion beam 700 is connected to the cabinet-side connecting assembly 600 and is rotatable relative to the cabinet-side connecting assembly 600; one drum-side connecting assembly 800 is used to connect to one of the drums 400, and the other drum-side connecting assembly 800 is used to connect to one of the remaining drums 400. The two ends of the torsion beam 700 pass through the limiting holes 8001 on the two drum-side connecting assemblies 800 respectively.

[0087] The load balancing device 500 is configured to switch between a first operating state and a second operating state. In the first operating state, one end of the torsion beam 700 can rotate relative to the cylinder-side connecting assembly 800 under the weight of the corresponding cylinder 400, while the other end of the torsion beam 700 can rotate in the same direction. In the second operating state, both ends of the torsion beam 700 form a gap with the cylinder-side connecting assembly 800 in any radial direction of the limiting hole 8001.

[0088] In this embodiment, when the left side cylinder 400 descends due to load, the left end of the torsion beam 700 rotates downward through the limiting hole 8001 of the cylinder side connecting assembly 800, causing the entire torsion beam 700 to rotate in the same direction, i.e., the right end of the torsion beam 700 also rotates in the same direction. The load balancing device 500 is in the first working state described above. On the right side, the rotation of the torsion beam 700 causes the right side cylinder 400 to deform downward through the limiting hole 8001 of the right side cylinder side connecting assembly 800. However, due to the different downward deformation states of the left and right cylinders 400 (the deformation is greater on the left and relatively smaller on the right), the torsion beam 700 will generate a certain torsional deformation. Looking along the axial direction of the torsion beam 700 from left to right, the torsion beam 700 can generate a counterclockwise torque, thereby limiting the further descent of the left side cylinder 400 and achieving a certain degree of balance in load distribution between the left and right sides. In other words, when one drum 400 is washing, the other drum 400 can also partially bear the load, thus balancing the load on both sides, reducing the load on the washing side, reducing door seal deformation, and improving creep problems. When the load on the drum 400 is greatly reduced, the deformation of the washing machine 200's suspension system decreases, the displacement of the drum 400 decreases, and the torsion beam 700 of the load balancing device 500 can disengage from the drum-side connection 8002. The load balancing device 500 is in the second working state mentioned above and will not generate additional constraint stiffness on the operation of the drum 400, thereby helping to maintain the vibration isolation performance of the suspension system during high-speed spin-drying.

[0089] In this embodiment, two cylinders 400 are specifically configured, and the two cylinders 400 are connected in the horizontal direction through a cylinder connecting part 900. Correspondingly, two cylinder side connecting assemblies 800 are connected to the two cylinders 400 one-to-one.

[0090] like Figures 1 to 6 As shown, in this embodiment, as a preferred configuration, the torsion beam 700 includes a first horizontal connecting portion 7001, two second horizontal connecting portions 7003, and two vertical connecting portions 7002. Each vertical connecting portion 7002 has a first end and a second end along its axial direction. The first ends of the two vertical connecting portions 7002 are respectively perpendicularly connected to the two ends of the first horizontal connecting portion 7001. The two second horizontal connecting portions 7003 are respectively perpendicularly connected to the second ends of the two vertical connecting portions 7002, and the first horizontal connecting portion 7001 and the second horizontal connecting portion 7003 are staggered along the axial direction of the vertical connecting portions 7002. The first horizontal connecting portion 7001 is connected to the housing-side connecting assembly 600 and is rotatable relative to the housing-side connecting assembly 600. The two second horizontal connecting portions 7003 are respectively inserted through the two cylinder-side connecting assemblies 800.

[0091] In this embodiment, the load balancing device 500 has a simple structure, which helps to simplify the overall structure of the load balancing device 500, and thus helps to simplify the structure of the washing machine 200. In addition, the above-mentioned structural form facilitates the smooth transmission of force, which helps to ensure the normal operation of the load balancing device 500.

[0092] The enclosure-side connecting assembly 600 includes a crossbeam 6001 and an enclosure-side connecting seat 6002 disposed at the bottom of the crossbeam 6001. The two ends of the crossbeam 6001 are used to connect to the inner wall of the enclosure 300. The enclosure-side connecting seat 6002 is sleeved on the outside of the first horizontal connecting portion 7001, and the first horizontal connecting portion 7001 is rotatable relative to the enclosure-side connecting seat 6002.

[0093] The crossbeam 6001 provides more options for the placement of the load balancing device 500, allowing for flexible installation of the load balancing device 500 in the desired location. The torsion beam 700 is connected to the box-side connecting seat 6002 by fitting it onto the outside of the first horizontal connecting part 7001. This connection method is relatively simple and ensures that the torsion beam 700 can rotate as needed.

[0094] Furthermore, the number of housing-side connecting seats 6002 can be set to multiple, and the multiple housing-side connecting seats 6002 are spaced apart along the axial direction of the first horizontal connecting portion 7001. Multiple housing-side connecting seats 6002 help improve the reliability of the connection between the torsion beam 700 and the housing 300, and thus help ensure the normal operation of the load balancing device 500.

[0095] It should be noted that the box-side connecting seat 6002 can be connected to the crossbeam 6001 by welding, bonding or other means, or the box-side connecting seat 6002 and the crossbeam 6001 can be set as an integral structure.

[0096] In this embodiment, as Figures 1 to 6 As shown, for example, two housing-side connecting seats 6002 are provided. In other alternative embodiments, the configuration can be adjusted according to actual needs, and specific limitations are not specified here.

[0097] The cylinder-side connecting assembly 800 includes at least one cylinder-side connecting portion 8002. The cylinder-side connecting portion 8002 is provided with a limiting hole 8001, and the cylinder-side connecting portion 8002 is adapted to the shape of the cylinder 400 on its side facing the cylinder 400. Specifically, in this embodiment, each cylinder-side connecting assembly 800 includes one cylinder-side connecting portion 8002. In other alternative embodiments, each cylinder-side connecting assembly 800 may be configured with more than one cylinder-side connecting portion 8002.

[0098] Accordingly, the cylinder side connecting part 8002 can be configured to be connected to the cylinder 400 by welding, bonding or other means, or the cylinder side connecting part 8002 and the cylinder 400 can be configured as an integral structure.

[0099] At least as Figures 4 to 6 As shown, the limiting hole 8001 is a circular hole, and the second horizontal connecting part 7003 is a cylindrical structure. Setting the limiting hole 8001 as a circular hole and the second horizontal connecting part 7003 as a cylindrical structure helps to ensure the rotation of the second horizontal connecting part 7003 relative to the limiting hole 8001, thereby helping to ensure the normal operation of the load balancing device 500.

[0100] Preferably or alternatively, in the second working state, the second horizontal connecting portion 7003 is coaxial with the limiting hole 8001. In this second working state, setting the second horizontal connecting portion 7003 to be coaxial with the limiting hole 8001 helps ensure the smooth rotation of the subsequent torsion beam 700.

[0101] The two second horizontal connecting parts 7003 are symmetrically arranged about the first horizontal connecting part 7001. This symmetrical arrangement of the two second horizontal connecting parts 7003 about the first horizontal connecting part 7001 helps to ensure the overall stability of the load balancing device 500 and the balancing effect.

[0102] The first horizontal connecting part 7001, the vertical connecting part 7002, and the second horizontal connecting part 7003 are integrally formed. Integrating the first horizontal connecting part 7001, the vertical connecting part 7002, and the second horizontal connecting part 7003 into one piece facilitates processing and simplifies the structure of the torsion beam 700.

[0103] Of course, in other alternative embodiments, at least some of the structures of the first horizontal connecting portion 7001, the vertical connecting portion 7002, and the second horizontal connecting portion 7003 may be configured to be assembled together by a connecting structure.

[0104] like Figures 1 to 5 , Figures 7 to 9 As shown, the washing machine 200 also includes two suspension devices arranged opposite to each other. The two suspension devices are respectively connected between the top of the two drums 400 and the cabinet 300 to suspend the two drums 400 from the cabinet 300.

[0105] Specifically, in this embodiment, the suspension device 100 includes: a first bracket 1, the first end of which is connected to the cylinder 400; a second bracket 2, the first end of which is connected to the housing 300; and an elastic support assembly 3, the first end of which is connected to the second end of the first bracket 1, and the second end of which is connected to the second end of the second bracket 2. The elastic support assembly 3 includes a vibration-damping support unit and a washing support unit made of elastic material. The vibration-damping support unit includes a first vibration-damping support portion 311 and a second vibration-damping support portion 312 supported between the first bracket 1 and the second bracket 2. The first vibration-damping support portion 311 and the second vibration-damping support portion 312 are disposed opposite to each other. The first support 1 and the second support 2 form a receiving cavity 21; the washing support unit includes a first washing support 321 and a second washing support 322 respectively disposed on the first vibration isolation support 311 and the second vibration isolation support 312, the first washing support 321 and the second washing support 322 are disposed opposite to each other and are both located in the receiving cavity 21; the washing support unit is configured to switch between a first position state and a second position state as the gravity of the drum 400 changes; wherein, in the first position state, the first washing support 321 and the second washing support 322 are separated; in the second position state, the first washing support 321 and the second washing support 322 are abutted together.

[0106] In this embodiment, the elastic support assembly 3 includes a vibration isolation support unit and a washing support unit made of elastic material. This arrangement is beneficial for reducing the vibration transmitted from the drum 400 to the housing 300 and for providing flexible buffering of the vibration of the drum 400. In addition, the first vibration isolation support part 311 and the second vibration isolation support part 312 are arranged opposite to each other and form a receiving cavity 21 with the first bracket 1 and the second bracket 2. This arrangement is beneficial for increasing the support area of ​​the vibration isolation support unit on the housing 300, improving its support effect, and avoiding concentrated support at one point, which can easily damage the vibration isolation support unit.

[0107] The washing support unit is stretched by the first bracket 1, which changes in a positive correlation with the gravity of the drum 400. This causes the first washing support 321 to move closer to or further away from the second washing support 322, so as to switch between the first position state and the second position state. In other words, the suspension device can flexibly isolate and buffer the drum 400 from the gravity changes. When the tension on the washing support unit is less than the threshold, the first washing support 321 is located in the first position separated from the second washing support 322. At this time, the stiffness of the elastic support component 3 is low, and the drum 400 is only subjected to the buffering and vibration reduction effect of the vibration isolation support unit. When the weight of the drum increases or the center of gravity shifts to the preset position, the deformation of the vibration isolation support unit is large, and the tension on the washing support unit is greater than the threshold. At this time, the first washing support 321 is located in the second position abutting against the second washing support 322. At this time, the stiffness of the elastic support component 3 is high, and the support effect on the drum 400 is better. Moreover, the vibration isolation support unit and the washing support unit simultaneously have the buffering and vibration reduction effect on the drum, thereby realizing the dynamic adjustment of the stiffness of the suspension device 100 with the change of the weight of the drum 400, improving the buffering and vibration reduction effect of the suspension device under different working conditions of the washing machine 200, and thus optimizing the vibration isolation rate of the washing machine 200.

[0108] It should be noted that when the suspension device 100 is in the first position, the washing machine 200 can be in spin-drying mode, at which point the water in the drum 400 is basically drained, and the overall weight of the drum 400 becomes lighter. When the suspension device 100 is in the second position, the washing machine 200 can be in washing mode, at which point the water in the drum 400 has not yet been drained, and the overall weight of the drum 400 is very heavy. Furthermore, the elastic support component 3 is made of rubber. Additionally, the stiffness of the suspension device 100 varies depending on the degree of contact between the first washing support part 321 and the second washing support part 322, i.e., the degree of compression. A greater degree of contact results in greater stiffness of the suspension device 100, and vice versa.

[0109] There are multiple first washing support portions 321 and multiple second washing support portions 322, with each of the multiple first washing support portions 321 and multiple second washing support portions 322 corresponding to one another; and / or, the first washing support portion 321 has a first arcuate protrusion extending toward the second washing support portion 322, and the second washing support portion 322 has a second arcuate protrusion extending toward the first washing support portion 321.

[0110] In this embodiment, there is one first washing support 321 and one corresponding second washing support 322, with one first washing support 321 and one second washing support 322 in a one-to-one correspondence.

[0111] In other embodiments, there are multiple first washing support portions 321 and multiple second washing support portions 322. The multiple first washing support portions 321 and multiple second washing support portions 322 are arranged in a one-to-one correspondence, which can further improve the rigidity of the suspension device 100 when the suspension device 100 is in the second position state, and further improve the gravity that the suspension device 100 can withstand.

[0112] Furthermore, the arrangement of the first arc-shaped protrusion and the second arc-shaped protrusion can shorten the distance between the first washing support 321 and the second washing support 322, thereby improving the efficiency of the suspension device 100 in switching from the first position state to the second position state. In addition, the first arc-shaped protrusion and the second arc-shaped protrusion can also increase the buffer distance between the first washing support 321 and the second washing support 322, thereby improving the vibration isolation effect.

[0113] It should be noted that a plurality of first washing support portions 321 are sequentially arranged on the first vibration isolation support portion 311 along the direction from the first end of the elastic support component 3 toward the second end of the elastic support component 3; and a plurality of second washing support portions 322 are sequentially arranged on the second vibration isolation support portion 312 along the direction from the first end of the elastic support component 3 toward the second end of the elastic support component 3.

[0114] The width of the first arc-shaped protrusion along the axial direction of the receiving cavity 21 is not less than the width of the first washing support 321 along the axial direction of the receiving cavity 21; and / or, the width of the second arc-shaped protrusion along the axial direction of the receiving cavity 21 is not less than the width of the second washing support 322 along the axial direction of the receiving cavity 21.

[0115] In this embodiment, the widths of the first arc-shaped protrusion and the second arc-shaped protrusion are both set to increase the contact area of ​​the first arc-shaped protrusion and the second arc-shaped protrusion when the suspension device 100 is in the second position state, so as to improve the rigidity of the suspension device 100.

[0116] It should be noted that, in its natural state, the first and second arc-shaped protrusions are as close as possible to each other, even with a gap between them.

[0117] The elastic support assembly 3 further includes a first vibration isolation mounting part 33. One end of the first vibration isolation mounting part 33 is connected to the first end of the first vibration isolation support part 311 near the first bracket 1, and the other end of the first vibration isolation mounting part 33 is connected to the first end of the second vibration isolation support part 312 near the first bracket 1. The elastic support assembly 3 is mounted on the cylinder 400 through the first vibration isolation mounting part 33. Alternatively, the first bracket 1 includes a mounting member 12 and a first mounting plate 11. The elastic support assembly 3 further includes the first vibration isolation mounting part 33. One end of the first vibration isolation mounting part 33 is connected to the first end of the first vibration isolation support part 311 near the first bracket 1, and the other end of the first vibration isolation mounting part 33 is connected to the first end of the second vibration isolation support part 312 near the first bracket 1. The first vibration isolation mounting part 33 is located between the first mounting plate 11 and the mounting member 12. The first mounting plate 11 threadedly connects the first vibration isolation mounting part 33 to the mounting member 12.

[0118] In this embodiment, the provision of the first vibration isolation mounting part 33 further improves the vibration isolation effect of the suspension device 100. In addition, the first vibration isolation mounting part 33 also increases the installation area of ​​the suspension device 100 and the cylinder 400, making the installation more stable. The provision of the mounting part 12 and the first mounting plate 11 makes the suspension device 100 more stably fixed on the cylinder 400.

[0119] In other embodiments, the first vibration isolation section and the second vibration isolation section may be omitted.

[0120] It should be noted that in embodiments without the first vibration isolation mounting part 33, mounting part 12 and first mounting plate 11, the suspension device 100 can be mounted on the cylinder 400 via the first vibration isolation support part 311 and the second vibration isolation support part 312.

[0121] The second support 2 includes a crossbeam 6001, with both ends of the crossbeam 6001 connected to the housing 300. The elastic support assembly 3 also includes a second vibration isolation mounting part 34, one end of which is connected to the second end of the first vibration isolation support part 311 near the crossbeam 6001, and the other end of which is connected to the second end of the second vibration isolation support part 312 near the crossbeam 6001. The elastic support assembly 3 is mounted on the crossbeam 6001 via the vibration isolation mounting part; or, the second support 2 includes a crossbeam 6001 and a second mounting plate 23. The two ends of the crossbeam 6001 are used to connect to the housing 300. The elastic support assembly 3 also includes a second vibration isolation mounting part 34. One end of the second vibration isolation mounting part 34 is connected to the second end of the first vibration isolation support part 311 near the crossbeam 6001, and the other end of the second vibration isolation mounting part 34 is connected to the second end of the second vibration isolation support part 312 near the crossbeam 6001. The second vibration isolation mounting part 34 is located between the second mounting plate 23 and the crossbeam 6001. The second mounting plate 23 threadedly connects the second vibration isolation mounting part 34 to the crossbeam 6001.

[0122] In this embodiment, the crossbeam 6001 of the suspension device 100 is the same as the crossbeam 6001 of the load balancing device 500, that is, the suspension device 100 and the load balancing device 500 share the crossbeam 6001.

[0123] In other alternative embodiments, the crossbeam 6001 of the suspension device 100 may be configured to be a different crossbeam 6001 from the crossbeam 6001 of the load balancing device 500.

[0124] In this embodiment, the provision of the second vibration isolation mounting part 34 further improves the vibration isolation effect of the suspension device 100. In addition, the second vibration isolation mounting part 34 also increases the mounting area between the suspension device 100 and the crossbeam 6001, making the installation more stable. The provision of the second mounting plate 23 makes the suspension device 100 more stably suspended on the crossbeam 6001.

[0125] It should be noted that in embodiments without the second mounting plate 23 and the second vibration isolation mounting part 34, the suspension device 100 can be mounted on the crossbeam 6001 via the first vibration isolation support part 311 and the second vibration isolation support part 312. Furthermore, the cavity formed by the first vibration isolation mounting part 33, the second vibration isolation mounting part 34, the first vibration isolation support part 311, and the second vibration isolation support part 312 provides space for the first washing support part 321 and the second washing support part 322 to abut against each other. Both the first vibration isolation mounting part 33 and the second vibration isolation mounting part 34 are provided with corresponding mounting holes 35, and the elastic support assembly is threaded onto the first bracket 1 and the second bracket 2 through the mounting holes 35.

[0126] The first mounting plate 11 is adapted to the inner surface of the first vibration isolation mounting part 33; the end face of the mounting part 12 connected to the first vibration isolation mounting part 33 is adapted to the outer surface of the first vibration isolation mounting part 33, and the end face of the mounting part 12 connected to the cylinder 400 is adapted to the outer wall surface of the cylinder 400.

[0127] In this embodiment, the inner surface of the first mounting plate 11 is adapted to the inner surface of the first vibration isolation mounting part 33, so that the connection area between the first mounting plate 11 and the first vibration isolation mounting part 33 is large and the connection is relatively stable. In addition, the first mounting plate 11 and the first vibration isolation mounting part 33 are also easier to bear force and the force is relatively uniform. The limitation of the two end faces of the mounting member 12 can also make the installation of the suspension device 100 and the cylinder 400 more stable.

[0128] It should be noted that the outer wall of the cylinder 400 is arc-shaped, and the end face of the mounting part 12 that connects to the cylinder 400 is also arc-shaped.

[0129] The second mounting plate 23 is adapted to the inner surface of the second vibration isolation mounting part 34.

[0130] In this embodiment, the above-mentioned arrangement results in a large connection area between the second mounting plate 23 and the second vibration isolation mounting part 34, making the connection more stable. In addition, the second mounting plate 23 and the second vibration isolation mounting part 34 are also easier to bear force, and the force is more uniform.

[0131] Preferably, the elastic support component 3 is a one-piece molded structure. The aforementioned one-piece molded design saves space occupied by the suspension device 100; in addition, one-piece molded components are generally not easily damaged or broken into several parts when subjected to gravity.

[0132] In other alternative embodiments, the washing machine may have three or more drums; adjacent drums 400 are interconnected, and the two drums 400 at both ends are suspended from the housing 300 by the suspension device 100, which means that the suspension device 100 can withstand a large amount of gravity.

[0133] The working mode of the suspension device 100 in this utility model under dehydration and washing conditions is as follows:

[0134] Washing condition: The drum 400 is suspended symmetrically on the left and right sides. During the washing condition, due to the weight of the drum 400 itself and the weight of the water in the drum 400, the elastic support component 3 is stretched. The first washing support part 321 and the second washing support part 322 abut against each other to increase the rigidity of the suspension device 100 to bear the weight. The elastic support component 3 subjected to the weight acts on the crossbeam 6001.

[0135] Dehydration condition: Water in the drum 400 is discharged. The mass of the entire drum 400 is relatively small, but the rotation speed gradually increases, resulting in greater vibration. At this time, the elastic support component 3 recovers its deformation, the first washing support part 321 and the second washing support part 322 separate, the stiffness decreases, and a better dehydration vibration isolation effect is produced.

[0136] The washing machine 200 can be controlled by a voice module, which is equipped with a controller, a voice receiving module, and a voice parsing module. The voice receiving module receives user commands, and the voice parsing module parses the commands. Based on the parsed commands, the controller controls the washing machine to perform corresponding operations, thereby realizing the intelligent control of the washing machine 200 and improving the user experience.

[0137] In the description of this utility model, it should be understood that the terms "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. They are only for the convenience of describing this utility model and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on this utility model.

[0138] While specific embodiments of this utility model have been described above, those skilled in the art should understand that these are merely illustrative examples, and the scope of protection of this utility model is defined by the appended claims. Those skilled in the art can make various changes or modifications to these embodiments without departing from the principles and essence of this utility model, but all such changes and modifications fall within the scope of protection of this utility model.

Claims

1. A load balancing device for installation between the drum and the cabinet of a washing machine, the washing machine comprising at least two drums arranged horizontally, characterized in that, The load balancing device includes: A housing-side connection assembly for mounting on the housing; A torsion beam is connected to the box-side connecting assembly and is rotatable relative to the box-side connecting assembly; Two cylindrical side connecting assemblies are arranged at intervals along the horizontal direction. One of the cylindrical side connecting assemblies is used to connect to one of the cylindrical bodies, and the other cylindrical side connecting assemblies is used to connect to one of the remaining cylindrical bodies. The two ends of the torsion beam pass through the limiting holes on the two cylindrical side connecting assemblies respectively. The load balancing device is configured to switch between a first operating state and a second operating state. In the first working state, one end of the torsion beam can rotate relative to the cylinder side connection assembly under the gravity of the corresponding cylinder, and the other end of the torsion beam can rotate in the same direction. In the second working state, the two ends of the torsion beam form a gap with the cylinder side connection assembly in any radial direction of the limiting hole.

2. The load balancing device as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The torsion beam includes a first horizontal connecting part, two second horizontal connecting parts, and two vertical connecting parts. The vertical connecting parts have a first end and a second end along the axial direction. The first ends of the two vertical connecting parts are respectively perpendicularly connected to the two ends of the first horizontal connecting part. The two second horizontal connecting parts are respectively perpendicularly connected to the second ends of the two vertical connecting parts. The first horizontal connecting parts and the second horizontal connecting parts are staggered along the axial direction of the vertical connecting parts. The first horizontal connecting portion is connected to the box-side connecting assembly and is rotatable relative to the box-side connecting assembly; The two second horizontal connecting portions are respectively inserted into the two cylindrical side connecting assemblies.

3. The load balancing device as described in claim 2, characterized in that, The box-side connection assembly includes a crossbeam and a box-side connection seat disposed at the bottom of the crossbeam; The two ends of the crossbeam are used to connect to the inner wall of the box body, the box body side connecting seat is sleeved on the outside of the first horizontal connecting part, and the first horizontal connecting part can rotate relative to the box body side connecting seat.

4. The load balancing device as described in claim 3, characterized in that, The number of the box-side connecting seats is multiple, and the multiple box-side connecting seats are spaced apart along the axial direction of the first horizontal connecting portion.

5. The load balancing device as described in claim 2, characterized in that, The cylinder-side connecting assembly includes at least one cylinder-side connecting part, and the limiting hole is provided on the cylinder-side connecting part; The cylindrical side connection portion is designed to be adapted to the shape of the cylindrical body on one side facing the cylindrical body.

6. The load balancing device as described in claim 5, characterized in that, The limiting hole is a circular hole, and the second horizontal connecting part is a cylindrical structure; And / or, in the second working state, the second horizontal connecting portion is coaxial with the limiting hole.

7. The load balancing device according to any one of claims 2-6, characterized in that, The two second horizontal connecting portions are symmetrically arranged about the first horizontal connecting portion; And / or, the first horizontal connecting portion, the vertical connecting portion, and the second horizontal connecting portion are integrally formed.

8. A washing machine, comprising a cabinet and at least two drums spaced apart in a horizontal direction, characterized in that, The washing machine also includes a load balancing device as described in any one of claims 1-7.

9. The washing machine as described in claim 8, characterized in that, The washing machine has two drums, which are connected horizontally by a drum connecting part. The washing machine also includes two oppositely arranged suspension devices, which are respectively connected between the top of the two drums and the cabinet to suspend the two drums from the cabinet.

10. The washing machine as described in claim 9, characterized in that, The suspension device includes: A first support, the first end of which is connected to the cylinder; The second bracket, the first end of which is connected to the housing; An elastic support assembly, wherein a first end of the elastic support assembly is connected to a second end of the first bracket, and a second end of the elastic support assembly is connected to a second end of the second bracket, the elastic support assembly includes a vibration isolation support unit and a washing support unit made of elastic material, the vibration isolation support unit includes a first vibration isolation support part and a second vibration isolation support part supported between the first bracket and the second bracket, the first vibration isolation support part and the second vibration isolation support part are disposed opposite to each other and form a receiving cavity with the first bracket and the second bracket; The washing support unit includes a first washing support and a second washing support respectively disposed in the first vibration isolation support and the second vibration isolation support. The first washing support and the second washing support are disposed opposite to each other and are both located in the receiving cavity. The washing support unit is configured to switch between a first position state and a second position state as the weight of the drum changes. When in the first position state, the first washing support part and the second washing support part are separated; When in the second position, the first washing support and the second washing support are in contact with each other.

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