Dispensing device of a laundry treatment apparatus

Abstract

The utility model discloses a kind of dispensing devices of clothes processing equipment, comprising: distribution box, including at least one open chamber, for accommodating additive box;Ejection device, including movable installation to the push-out component of distribution box and the elastic energy storage component pre-tightened by the push-out component;Operating lever, including the operating part extended to the outside of distribution box and the locking portion with the operating part integral linkage, the push-out component is directly locked by locking portion and keeps the pre-tightening of elastic energy storage component, the operating part can be operated to drive locking portion release push-out component, the push-out component is released by elastic energy storage component Elastic force propels additive box at least partially ejects the chamber.The technical problem to be solved by the utility model is how to simplify ejection device without changing the structure of additive box itself.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model relates to the field of clothing processing equipment technology, and in particular to a dispensing device for clothing processing equipment. Background Technology

[0002] Traditional washing machines require users to manually add detergent based on experience before the wash cycle begins. This not only increases the user's workload but also easily leads to clothes not being cleaned properly or being wasted due to improper control of detergent dosage. Therefore, automatic detergent dispensing technology has emerged.

[0003] As mentioned in the prior art announcement CN109402964B, "A detergent additive box and a washing machine" includes a box body, which is detachably disposed within the mounting cavity of the dispensing box. It also includes an ejector assembly and a switch assembly disposed below the box body. The ejector assembly is mainly composed of a spring, which maintains a tendency to push the box body open. The switch assembly includes a latch, one end of which engages with the box body, and the other end is fixedly installed in the mounting cavity. Specifically, when the latch is engaged with the box body, the box body cannot be pushed open by the ejector assembly; when the latch is disengaged from the box body, the box body can be pushed open by the ejector assembly, facilitating the user to grasp the box body.

[0004] However, under the conditions of vibration during washing machine operation and collision during handling, since the box body and the mounting cavity are only fixed by simple buckles, and the ejector component itself applies a continuous ejection force to the box body, under such conditions, it is very easy for the buckles to loosen, causing the box body to fail to lock and thus causing problems such as leakage. For example, the "detergent additive box and washing machine" mentioned in prior art announcement CN109402965B includes a box body, which is detachably disposed in the mounting cavity of the dispensing box. It also includes a push-to-open switch assembly detachably disposed in the mounting cavity. The mounting cavity further includes a locking member that cooperates with the push-to-open switch assembly and an ejector assembly. When the push-to-open switch assembly and the locking member are locked, the ejector assembly cannot push the box body open; when the push-to-open switch assembly and the locking member are unlocked, the ejector assembly pushes the box body open to facilitate the user's grasping of the box body.

[0005] However, the above-mentioned technical solutions still have certain drawbacks. This design, which uses a push-to-lock switch assembly in conjunction with a locking element, requires the user to directly press on a specific position on the box to lock or unlock. This results in a low tolerance for operational errors and makes it easy for locking or unlocking to fail due to incorrect pressing. Furthermore, directly applying force to the box will put pressure on its internal sealed environment, potentially leading to leakage from the liquid outlet. In addition, the structure of this push-to-lock switch assembly is relatively complex, and under prolonged use, it is prone to mechanical fatigue, jamming, or reset failure, thus affecting normal user operation. For example, the prior art announcement CN108729147B mentions "a washing machine liquid storage box installation structure and an automatic dispensing device having the structure," which includes a liquid storage box detachably disposed in an installation groove. The installation structure includes a pop-out unit disposed in the installation groove, providing a force for the liquid storage box to pop out of the installation groove, and a locking unit that overcomes the force of the pop-out unit to install the liquid storage box in the installation groove. The locking unit includes a locking pin, a locking groove, and an operating lever. The operating lever has a slide rail, and the end of the locking pin has a pin that cooperates with the slide rail. The pin is slidably connected to the slide rail. The up-and-down movement of the operating lever causes the locking pin to slide left and right. The user separates the locking pin and the locking groove by pressing down the operating lever, and the liquid storage box pops out of the installation groove under the action of the pop-out unit.

[0006] As described above, separating the locking pin from the locking groove requires first pressing down the operating lever, which then transmits power through the pin and guides the locking pin to slide left and right. This multi-stage transmission between multiple components not only leads to a certain loss of operating force during the conversion process, but also reduces the accuracy of the action due to the cumulative error of the fit clearance between the components. In addition, each time the liquid reservoir is unlocked, the pin needs to reciprocate along the slide groove, which is prone to wear after long-term use, easily causing transmission insensitivity or failure, ultimately resulting in abnormal unlocking function. Utility Model Content

[0007] The technical problem that this utility model aims to solve is how to simplify the ejection device without altering the structure of the additive box itself. To achieve the above objectives, the present invention adopts the following technical solution: a dispensing device for a garment processing equipment, comprising: a dispensing box, including at least one open chamber for receiving an additive box; an ejection device, including a push-out component movably mounted to the dispensing box and an elastic energy storage component pre-tightened by the push-out component; an operating lever, including an operating part extending outside the dispensing box and a locking part integrally linked with the operating part, wherein the push-out component is directly locked by the locking part to maintain the pre-tightening of the elastic energy storage component, the operating part can be operably driven to release the push-out component by the locking part, and the push-out component is pushed by the elastic force released by the elastic energy storage component to at least partially eject the additive box from the chamber.

[0008] By adopting the above technical solution, this utility model has the following advantages: The dispensing box is equipped with a pop-out device. The pop-out device allows the user to easily remove the additive box when it needs to be replaced. The operating lever includes an operating part and a locking part, which are integrated and linked. When the user operates the operating part to release the push-out component, it directly drives the locking part to move, providing convenient direct-drive operation without the need for additional transmission components. This eliminates the complex structure of multi-stage transmissions, avoiding operational force loss and the risk of transmission failure during prolonged use.

[0009] The term "integrated" refers to the fact that the operating part and the locking part are molded as a single unit. The resulting operating lever is assembled onto the distribution box as a separate component. Compared with existing technologies, this eliminates the need for multiple assembly processes involving multiple components. Thanks to the integrated structure, the operating part and the locking part can directly link together to perform synchronous actions. Unlike existing technologies, it does not require intermediate force conversion and transmission links, which will bring a better operating experience.

[0010] In addition, the locking mechanism acts directly on the ejector rather than the additive box, preventing the additive box from being subjected to external force, ensuring stable internal pressure, and effectively reducing the occurrence of leakage problems.

[0011] Specifically, when the additive box is placed in the dispensing box, the push-out component is directly locked by the locking part to maintain the pre-tightness of the elastic energy storage component; when the user needs to take out the additive box, the user operates the operating part to directly drive the locking part to move, and at this time the push-out component pushes out the additive box under the elastic force of the elastic energy storage component.

[0012] The additive box described above relies on the cooperation of the ejection component, the elastic energy storage component, and the operating lever to complete the ejection action. This technical solution eliminates the need for additional transmission components, resulting in a simplified structure that reduces mold opening and manufacturing costs while simultaneously lowering maintenance costs. Furthermore, it reduces the risk of wear that occurs during prolonged use of the sliding fit between the pin and the groove, as seen in existing technologies, thus improving the long-term stability of the ejection device and increasing its service life.

[0013] Furthermore, the operating lever also includes a pivot shaft or pivot hole located between the operating part and the locking part for pivotally connecting the dispensing box, and the operating lever can be operably rotated relative to the dispensing box.

[0014] Furthermore, the dispensing box is provided with a first reset element and a first limiting part. The first reset element is pre-tightened by the operating lever to maintain the tendency of the locking part to move towards the locking position. The first limiting part limits the rotation stroke of the operating lever by stopping the locking part or the operating part.

[0015] Using the above technical solution, the operating lever is supported by a pivot shaft. The user switches the locking part between locking and unlocking the additive box by operating the operating unit. The first reset element provides a pre-tightening force, ensuring that the locking part returns to the locked position under the action of the pre-tightening force after operation, eliminating the need for manual adjustment by the user. The first limit part controls the rotation angle of the operating lever by stopping the locking part or the operating part, preventing the locking part from rotating excessively and thus failing to lock the additive box. This ensures that the locking part can always be in the locked position, improving the reliability of the ejection device.

[0016] Furthermore, the dispensing box is provided with a slide rail that engages with and guides the locking part to slide, and the operating lever can be operably slid relative to the dispensing box in the direction defined by the slide rail.

[0017] Furthermore, the dispensing box is provided with a second reset element and a second limiting part. The second reset element is pre-tightened by the locking part to maintain the tendency of the locking part to move towards the locking position. The second limiting part is located in the slide rail and limits the sliding stroke of the operating lever by the stop locking part.

[0018] Using the aforementioned technical solution, the user switches the locking part between locking and unlocking the additive box by operating the operating unit. The second reset element provides pre-tightening force, ensuring that the locking part returns to the locked position under the action of the pre-tightening force after operation, eliminating the need for manual adjustment by the user. The second limit part controls the sliding stroke of the operating lever by stopping the locking part or the operating part, preventing the locking part from sliding excessively and failing to lock the additive box, thus ensuring that the locking part can always be in the locked position and improving the reliability of the ejection device.

[0019] Furthermore, the bottom of the slide has a bearing surface that supports the locking part, and the slide also has an anti-detachment part located above the locking part.

[0020] Using the aforementioned technical solution, the bearing surface provides support for the locking part, allowing it to be stably positioned within the slide rail. The second reset element applies a preload to the locking part to keep it in the locked position. However, during the operation of the garment processing equipment, vibrations or external forces may cause the locking part to tend to move upwards, disengaging it and resulting in failure to lock the additive box. Therefore, an anti-detachment part is provided within the slide rail, positioned above the locking part, to restrict its movement and prevent it from disengaging under the preload of the second reset element. The support from the bearing surface below and the restriction from the anti-detachment part above together ensure the locking part remains stably in the locked position, improving the reliability of locking the additive box.

[0021] Furthermore, the dispensing box is provided with an elastic buckle extending into the slide, and the second limiting part and the anti-detachment part are integrally formed on the elastic buckle.

[0022] By adopting the aforementioned technical solution, the second limiting part and the anti-detachment part are integrated into the elastic buckle. In this way, the second limiting part and the anti-detachment part and the elastic buckle form a whole, eliminating the need for a complex connection structure and avoiding the need to set up two separate parts to occupy the limited space in the dispensing box, making the structure more compact.

[0023] Furthermore, the operating lever is constructed as a cantilever spring integrally formed on the dispensing box. The root of the cantilever spring is connected to the dispensing box, and its free end extends to the outside of the dispensing box to form an operating part. The operating lever can be operated to produce reversible deformation.

[0024] Furthermore, the bottom surface of the chamber is lowered to form a mounting groove, and a locking part is located in the mounting groove. When the pushed-out part is locked by the locking part, it covers the opening of the mounting groove.

[0025] Furthermore, when the component is locked by the locking part, it supports the additive box together with the bottom surface of the chamber.

[0026] By adopting the above technical solution, the bottom surface of the chamber is sunken to form an installation groove, and the locking part is located in the installation groove. This not only avoids occupying the placement space of the additive box, but also eliminates the need to modify the structure of the additive box itself to accommodate the locking part, ensuring that the liquid storage space inside the additive box is not reduced by adding the locking part. When the ejector is locked by the locking part, it covers the opening of the installation groove, making the appearance of the chamber cleaner and preventing dust or other impurities from entering the installation groove, affecting the working performance of the locking part, and extending the service life of the locking part. The ejector and the bottom surface of the chamber jointly support the additive box, forming a stable support for the additive box. This prevents the additive box from tilting when placed in the chamber due to the addition of the installation groove on the bottom surface of the chamber, ensuring the stable placement of the additive box in the chamber and ensuring the stability of the dispensing device operation.

[0027] Furthermore, the side wall or bottom wall of the dispensing box is provided with a through hole that connects to the mounting groove, and the operating part extends to the outside of the dispensing box through the through hole.

[0028] By adopting the aforementioned technical solution, users can directly operate the control unit from outside the dispensing box to lock and unlock the additive box, thus improving the convenience of operation.

[0029] Furthermore, the outer side of the dispensing box is provided with a recess, and the operating part moves within the space defined by the recess.

[0030] By adopting the aforementioned technical solution, the operating part moves within the space defined by the recessed portion, with no exposed components, resulting in a cleaner appearance of the dispensing box and improved visual appeal. Simultaneously, the recessed portion provides movement space for the operating part, not only preventing interference between the operating part and other components but also effectively preventing accidental user touches, thus improving the reliability of the ejection device and enhancing the user experience.

[0031] Furthermore, the ejector component is pivotally connected to the dispensing box; or, the ejector component is guided to move up and down as a whole.

[0032] Furthermore, one of the locking part and the ejection part is provided with a locking hook, and the other is provided with a locking groove. The locking hook and the locking groove form a complementary and separable locking connection.

[0033] By adopting the aforementioned technical solution, a locking connection is achieved by setting a locking hook and a locking groove in the locking part and the ejection part respectively, and utilizing the complementarity between the two. Compared with the locking method in the prior art, this locking method has a simple structure, requires fewer parts, and when the two are locked, the locking hook can be embedded in the locking groove and form a mutual constraint. Therefore, it can ensure that the connection between the locking part and the ejection part is firm and can withstand a certain external force without easily separating, thereby ensuring the reliability of the lock.

[0034] Furthermore, the additive box includes a first end with an outlet and a second end away from the first end, and the bottom of the additive box near the second end is lifted by a push-out component to form an inclined gripping posture.

[0035] Using the aforementioned technical solution, the ejector component lifts the bottom of the additive box near the second end, causing it to tilt and grip with the first end as a fulcrum. This tilted posture exposes the second end of the additive box from the chamber, forming a certain angle with the horizontal plane, providing a point of leverage for the user's fingers, making it easier for the user to pick up and remove the additive box, thus improving the convenience of operation.

[0036] Furthermore, the dispensing device also includes a dispensing box with a side opening, through which the dispensing box is pushed in or partially pulled out, and the release operation direction of the operating unit is opposite to the pushing direction of the dispensing box.

[0037] Using the aforementioned technical solution, after the dispensing box is pulled out, the user needs to release the operating unit to remove the additive box. At this time, the release operation of the operating unit is opposite to the direction the dispensing box was pushed in, that is, the same as the direction the dispensing box was pulled out. This operation is more in line with the user's natural operational logic after completing the extraction. The user does not need to change the direction of hand movement or operational thought to complete the entire process of removing the additive box, avoiding problems such as the additive box not being able to be removed properly due to operational errors, thus improving the convenience and accuracy of the operation. Attached Figure Description

[0038] The present invention will be further described below with reference to the accompanying drawings: Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the dispensing device of a clothing processing equipment according to the present invention; Figure 2 This is an exploded view of the assembly of the additive box and the dispensing box of this utility model. Figure 3 This utility model Figure 1 Enlarged view of point A in the middle; Figure 4 This is a cross-sectional view of the additive box of this utility model in the locked state; Figure 5 This utility model Figure 4 Enlarged view of point B in the image; Figure 6 Cross-section of the additive box in the unlocked state of this utility model. Figure 1 ; Figure 7 This utility model Figure 6 Enlarged view of point C in the image; Figure 8 Cross-section of the additive box in the locked state of this utility model Figure 2 ; Figure 9 This utility model Figure 8 Enlarged view of point D in the image; Figure 10 This is a partial view of the additive box in the locked state of this utility model. Figure 1 ; Figure 11 Partial view of the additive box of this utility model in its unlocked state. Figure 1 ; Figure 12 Cross-section of the additive box in the locked state of this utility model Figure 3 ; Figure 13 This utility model Figure 12 Enlarged view of point E in the image; Figure 14 This is a partial view of the additive box in the locked state of this utility model. Figure 2 ; Figure 15 Partial view of the additive box of this utility model in its unlocked state. Figure 2 ; Figure 16 This is a partial sectional view of the additive box of this utility model in the locked state. Figure 17 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the operating lever of the present invention, embodiment one; Figure 18 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the operating lever of embodiment two of this utility model; Figure 19 This is a structural schematic diagram of the component introduced in this utility model. Detailed Implementation

[0039] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of the embodiments of this utility model clearer, the technical solutions of the embodiments of this utility model will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of this utility model, and not all embodiments.

[0040] The terms "first," "second," etc. (if present) in the specification and claims of this utility model are used to distinguish similar objects, not to describe a specific order or sequence. Even if "second" is used before a technical feature for distinction, it does not necessarily imply the presence of "first." It should be understood that in this utility model, "comprising" and "having," and any variations thereof, are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion. It should be understood that in this utility model, "multiple" refers to two or more. "And / or" is merely a description of the relationship between related objects, indicating that three relationships can exist. For example, X and / or Y can represent: X alone, X and Y simultaneously, and Y alone. The character " / " generally indicates that the preceding and following related objects are in an "or" relationship. "Containing X, Y, and Z," "Containing X, Y, and Z" means that all three X, Y, and Z are included; "Containing X, Y, or Z" means that one of X, Y, and Z is included; "Containing X, Y, and / or Z" means that any one, two, or three of X, Y, and Z are included.

[0041] The technical solution of this utility model will be described in detail below with specific embodiments. The following specific embodiments can be selected to be combined or substituted with each other according to the actual situation, and the same or similar concepts or processes may not be described again in some embodiments.

[0042] like Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, this utility model provides a dispensing device 100 for a clothing processing equipment. In this embodiment, the clothing processing equipment is a washing machine. The washing machine has a cabinet 160, and the dispensing device 100 is installed in the cabinet 160. The dispensing device 100 includes a dispensing box 120, which includes at least one open chamber 121 for accommodating an additive box 400. The dispensing device 100 also includes a dispensing box 110 with a side opening. The dispensing box 120 is pushed in or pulled out through the side opening. This means that, in this embodiment, the dispensing device 100, the dispensing box 110, and the dispensing box 120 form a pull-out connection similar to a drawer. However, this does not mean that the technical solution in this disclosure is only applicable to dispensing devices 100 with side openings; it can also be applied to dispensing devices 100 with top openings.

[0043] Common garment processing equipment typically has two or more additive boxes 400 inside the dispensing box 120. The additive box 400 is a closed box structure, which can hold not only laundry detergent, but also fabric softener, disinfectant and other liquids that can be used for garment processing.

[0044] Users can directly purchase the additive box 400 with built-in additives; or, after the additives are used up, users can refill the additive box 400 with additives and reuse it. With this dispensing device 100, users do not need to add additives separately before each wash, reducing the number of times users need to add additives and avoiding inadequate cleaning or waste caused by improper control of detergent dosage.

[0045] Specifically, such as Figure 2 , Figure 3 , Figure 17 and Figure 19 As shown, the dispensing device 100 also includes an ejection device 200, which includes an ejection component 210 movably mounted to the dispensing box 120 and an elastic energy storage component 220 pre-tightened by the ejection component 210; an operating lever 300, which includes an operating part 310 extending outside the dispensing box 120 and a locking part 320 integrally linked with the operating part 310. The ejection component 210 is directly locked by the locking part 320 to maintain the pre-tightening of the elastic energy storage component 220. The operating part 310 can be operably driven to release the ejection component 210 by the locking part 320. The ejection component 210 is pushed by the elastic force released by the elastic energy storage component 220 to push the additive box 400 at least partially out of the chamber 121.

[0046] Understandably, the dispensing box 120 is equipped with a pop-out device 200. The pop-out device 200 allows the user to easily remove the additive box 400 when it needs to be replaced. The operating lever 300 includes an operating part 310 and a locking part 320, which are linked together. When the user operates the operating part 310 to release the ejector 210, it directly drives the locking part 320 to move. The operation is convenient and direct, without the need for additional transmission components, eliminating the complex structure of multi-stage transmission, and avoiding the risk of operating force loss and transmission failure under long-term use.

[0047] The term "integrated" refers to the fact that the operating part 310 and the locking part 320 are integrally formed. The operating lever 300 thus formed is assembled onto the distribution box 120 as an independent component. Compared with the prior art, this eliminates the need for multiple assembly processes caused by multiple components. Thanks to the integrated structure, the operating part 310 and the locking part 320 can directly link together to perform synchronous actions. Unlike the prior art, it does not require intermediate force conversion and transmission links, which will bring a better operating experience.

[0048] In addition, the locking part 320 acts directly on the ejector part 210 instead of the additive box 400, so that the additive box 400 is not subjected to external force, ensuring stable internal pressure and effectively reducing the occurrence of leakage problems.

[0049] Specifically, when the additive box 400 is placed in the dispensing box 120, the push-out component 210 is directly locked by the locking part 320 to maintain the pre-tightness of the elastic energy storage component 220; when the user needs to take out the additive box 400, the user operates the operating part 310 to directly drive the locking part 320 to move, and at this time the push-out component 210 pushes out the additive box 400 under the elastic force of the elastic energy storage component 220.

[0050] The additive box 400 described above relies on the cooperation of the ejection component 210, the elastic energy storage component 220, and the operating lever 300 to complete the ejection action. This technical solution eliminates the need for additional transmission components, resulting in a simplified structure and reduced mold-making and manufacturing costs, while maintenance costs also decrease simultaneously. Furthermore, it reduces the risk of wear that occurs during prolonged use of existing technologies that rely on sliding connections between pins and grooves, improving the long-term stability of the ejection device 200 and increasing its service life.

[0051] In addition, the elastic energy storage component 220 mentioned above can be any one of torsion spring, compression spring, or tension spring.

[0052] To elaborate, such as Figure 2 As shown, the bottom surface of chamber 121 is recessed to form a mounting groove 130, and the locking part 320 is disposed within the mounting groove 130. This not only avoids occupying the placement space of the additive box 400, but also eliminates the need for structural modifications to the additive box 400 itself to accommodate the locking part 320, ensuring that the liquid storage space inside the additive box 400 is not reduced by adding the locking part 320. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the ejector component 210 has a rectangular flat plate structure. When the ejector component 210 is locked by the locking part 320, it covers the opening 131 of the mounting groove 130. This not only makes the appearance of chamber 121 cleaner, but also prevents dust or other impurities from entering the mounting groove 130, affecting the working performance of the locking part 320, and extending the service life of the locking part 320. Furthermore, when the component 210 is locked by the locking part 320, it together with the bottom surface of the chamber 121 supports the additive box 400 to form a stable support for the additive box 400. This avoids the additive box 400 from tilting when placed in the chamber 121 due to the addition of the mounting groove 130 on the bottom surface of the chamber 121, ensuring the stable placement of the additive box 400 in the chamber 121 and ensuring the stability of the dispensing device 100 operation.

[0053] It is worth mentioning that, such as Figure 1 and Figure 3As shown, the side wall of the dispensing box 120 is provided with a recess 140 that is recessed into the mounting groove 130. The operating part 310 moves within the space defined by the recess 140. The recess 140 provides the operating part 310 with a space for movement, which not only avoids interference between the operating part 310 and other components, but also effectively prevents accidental touches by the user, improves the reliability of the ejection device 200, and enhances the user experience.

[0054] In addition, to make the operation of the operating part 310 more flexible, the side wall of the dispensing box 120 in this embodiment is provided with a through hole 141 that connects to the mounting groove 130, and the operating part 310 extends to the outside of the dispensing box 120 through the through hole 141. In this way, the user can directly operate the operating part 310 from the outside of the dispensing box 120 to complete the locking and unlocking of the additive box 400, which improves the convenience of operation.

[0055] It should be noted that, in this embodiment, it is preferred that the through hole 141 through which the operation part 310 passes through the recess 140 is provided on the side wall of the dispensing box 120; however, in another embodiment, the recess 140 can also be provided on the bottom wall of the dispensing box 120, and the through hole 141 through which the operation part 310 passes through the recess 140 is provided on the bottom wall of the dispensing box 120, which can achieve the same effect.

[0056] In a preferred embodiment, an operating lever 300 is provided, which is operated by rotation. A pivot hole 122 is provided between the operating part 310 and the locking part 320. A pivot shaft 311 is provided on the dispensing box 120. The pivot shaft 311 is located on the bottom wall near the through hole 141. The pivot hole 122 is fitted onto the pivot shaft 311, so that the operating lever 300 can be operably rotated relative to the dispensing box 120. Or, such as Figures 1 to 9 As shown, a pivot shaft 311 can also be provided between the operating part 310 and the locking part 320, and a pivot hole 122 is provided on the dispensing box 120. The pivot hole 122 is located on the bottom wall near the through hole 141. The pivot shaft 311 is inserted into the pivot hole 122, so that the operating lever 300 can be operably rotated relative to the dispensing box 120.

[0057] Specifically, the mounting slot 130 is provided with a first reset element 132 and a first limiting part 133a. The first reset element 132 is pre-tightened by the operating lever 300 to maintain the movement tendency of the locking part 320 toward the locking position. The first limiting part 133a limits the rotation stroke of the operating lever 300 by stopping the locking part 320. Similarly, in this embodiment, the rotational stroke of the operating lever 300 can be limited by providing the first limiting part 133a in the recessed part 140 and by using the stop operation part 310.

[0058] The aforementioned operating lever 300 is supported by a pivot shaft 311. The user operates the operating unit 310 to switch the locking unit 320 between locking and unlocking the additive box 400. The first reset element 132 provides a preload, ensuring that the locking unit 320 returns to the locked position under the preload after operation, eliminating the need for manual adjustment. The first limit part 133a controls the rotation angle of the operating lever 300 by stopping the locking unit 320 or the operating unit 310, preventing excessive rotation of the locking unit 320 that could prevent the additive box 400 from locking. This ensures that the locking unit 320 remains in the locked position, improving the reliability of the ejector device 200.

[0059] It should be noted that the side wall of the mounting groove 130 opposite to the elastic energy storage component 220 has a first receiving cavity 134. The first reset element 132 is housed in the first receiving cavity 134. The cavity wall of the first receiving cavity 134 can limit the first reset element 132. In this embodiment, the first reset element 132 is a compression spring. The mounting groove 130 is also provided with a first limiting block 133. The first limiting block 133 is located on the rotation path of the locking part 320. The side of the first limiting block 133 that cooperates with the locking part 320 to limit the movement is defined as the first limiting part 133a.

[0060] In this embodiment, the operating part 310, the locking part 320, and the pivot shaft 311 are integrally formed. The operating part 310 and the locking part 320 can rotate in opposite directions around the pivot shaft 311. The operating part 310 extends from the pivot shaft 311 toward the through hole 141 to form a paddle for easy operation by the user. To take into account the limited space within the mounting slot 130, the locking part 320 is connected to the pivot shaft 311 by an inclined straight arm 321. The locking part 320 includes a first stop wall 322 and a locking groove 333. The locking groove 333 is formed by bending the first stop wall 322. The first stop wall 322 cooperates with the first limiting block 133 to form a stop to limit the rotational stroke of the locking part 320.

[0061] Specifically, the ejector component 210 is provided with a locking hook 211 that complements and is separable from the locking groove 333. When the user needs to replace the additive box 400, the dispensing box 120 is first pulled out from the dispensing box 110, and then the operating part 310 is rotated to drive the locking part 320 to rotate closer to the first reset element 132. At this time, the locking groove 333 of the locking part 320 disengages from the locking hook 211 of the ejector component 210, and the ejector component 210 loses the constraint of the locking part 320. Under the action of the elastic force of the elastic energy storage component 220, the additive box 400 is ejected.

[0062] The locking groove 333 has a first guide surface 333a, and the locking hook 211 has a second guide surface 211a. When the user needs to install the additive box 400 into the dispensing box 120, the user can press down on the additive box 400. During the downward movement of the push-out component 210, the second guide surface 211a slides along the first guide surface 333a, and the locking hook 211 pushes open the locking part 320. Subsequently, under the action of the first reset element 132, the locking part 320 returns to the locked position, so that the locking hook 211 and the locking groove 333 form a complementary lock. Thus, the locking of the additive box 400 is completed.

[0063] In addition, the user can first rotate the lever to disengage the locking part 320 from the locked position, and then install the additive box 400 into the dispensing box 120. Since there is no interference from the locking groove 333, the push-out component 210, as the additive box 400 is inserted, engages the locking hook 211, which is in the locked position. Then, the operating part 310 is released, causing the locking part 320 to return to the locked position under the action of the first reset element 132. At this point, the locking hook 211 and the locking groove 333 form a complementary lock, thus completing the locking of the additive box 400.

[0064] Based on the above, the locking hook 211 can also be provided in the locking part 320, and the locking groove 333 can be provided in the ejection part 210.

[0065] Regardless of the method, the locking connection is achieved through the complementarity between the locking hook 211 and the locking groove 333. Complementarity means that the shapes of the locking hook 211 and the locking groove 333 can fit together to achieve the characteristic of easy unlocking and difficult disengagement. Compared to existing locking methods, this locking method has a simpler structure, requires fewer parts, and when locked, the locking hook 211 can embed into the locking groove 333, forming a mutual constraint. Therefore, it can ensure a firm connection between the locking part 320 and the ejection part 210, which can withstand a certain amount of external force without easily separating, thus ensuring the reliability of the lock.

[0066] To facilitate user operation, the rotation direction of the operating unit 310 is opposite to the direction in which the dispensing box 120 is pushed into the delivery box 110, and that is, the same as the direction in which the dispensing box 120 is pulled out. Figure 9 (The direction indicated in the image is consistent with the user's natural operating logic after the extraction action.) This operation is more in line with the user's natural operating logic after the extraction action. The user does not need to change the direction of hand movement or operating thought to complete the entire process of removing the additive box 400, avoiding problems such as the additive box 400 failing to be removed properly due to operating errors, thus improving the convenience and accuracy of operation.

[0067] like Figure 10 to Figure 13 , Figure 18As shown, in a preferred embodiment, another type of operating lever 300 is provided, which is operated by linear sliding. Specifically, the dispensing box 120 is provided with a slide rail 150 that engages with and guides the locking part 320. The operating lever 300 can be operably slid relative to the dispensing box 120 along the direction defined by the slide rail 150. This allows the locking part 320 to have a definite sliding direction under the guidance of the slide rail 150.

[0068] Specifically, the dispensing box 120 is provided with a second reset element 135 and a second limiting part 136. The second reset element 135 is pre-tightened by the locking part 320 to maintain the movement tendency of the locking part 320 towards the locking position. The second limiting part 136 is located in the slide rail 150 and limits the sliding stroke of the operating lever 300 by stopping the locking part 320.

[0069] Similar to the previous embodiment, the user operates the operating unit 310 to switch the locking unit 320 between locking and unlocking the additive box 400. The second reset element 135 provides a preload force to ensure that the locking unit 320 returns to the locked position under the action of the preload force after operation, eliminating the need for manual adjustment by the user. The second limit unit 136 controls the sliding stroke of the operating lever 300 by stopping the locking unit 320 or the operating unit 310, preventing the locking unit 320 from sliding excessively and failing to lock the additive box 400, thus ensuring that the locking unit 320 can always be in the locked position and improving the reliability of the ejector device 200.

[0070] To improve the reliability of locking the additive box 400, the bottom of the slide 150 has a bearing surface 151 that supports the locking part 320. In this embodiment, the bearing surface 151 is the upper surface of the bottom wall of the mounting groove 130. The bearing surface 151 provides support for the locking part 320, so that the locking part 320 can be stably placed in the slide 150.

[0071] Furthermore, the slide 150 is also provided with an anti-detachment part 152 located above the locking part 320. This is because the second reset element 135 applies a preload force to the locking part 320 to keep it in the locked position. However, under vibration generated during the operation of the garment processing equipment or under external force, the preload force of the second reset element 135 may cause the locking part 320 to tend to move upward, causing it to disengage from the locked position and resulting in the failure of locking the additive box 400. Therefore, an anti-detachment part 152 is provided in the slide 150, located above the locking part 320, to restrict the locking part 320 and prevent it from moving upward under the action of the preload force of the second reset element 135 and disengaging from the locked position.

[0072] Therefore, by supporting the locking part 320 from below with the bearing surface 151 and restricting the locking part 320 from above with the anti-detachment part 152, the locking part 320 can be stably kept in the locked position.

[0073] Specifically, the dispensing box 120 is provided with an elastic buckle 155 extending into the slide rail 150. Preferably, the second limiting part 136 and the anti-detachment part 152 are integrally formed on the elastic buckle 155. In this way, the second limiting part 136 and the anti-detachment part 152 and the elastic buckle 155 form a whole, eliminating the need for a complex connection structure and avoiding the need to set two independent parts to occupy the limited space in the dispensing box 120, making the structure more compact.

[0074] However, in other embodiments, the second limiting part 136 and the anti-detachment part 152 may also be provided as two separate structures within the slide rail 150.

[0075] It should be explained that the side wall of the mounting groove 130 opposite to the elastic energy storage component 220 has a second receiving cavity 137. The second reset element 135 is housed in the second receiving cavity 137, and the cavity wall of the second receiving cavity 137 can limit the second reset element 135. In this embodiment, the second reset element 135 is also a compression spring. Two limiting walls 153 are symmetrically arranged in the mounting groove 130 with the second receiving cavity 137 as the central axis O1. A slide 150 is defined between the two limiting walls 153. An elastic cantilever 154 is provided on the limiting wall 153. The fixed end of the elastic cantilever 154 is integrally formed on the limiting wall 153, and the elastic buckle 155 is integrally formed on the free end of the elastic cantilever 154. The elastic buckle 155 is located on the sliding path of the locking part 320. The side limit of the elastic buckle 155 and the locking part 320 is the second limit part 136; the bottom surface of the elastic buckle 155 and the locking part 320 is the anti-slip part 152.

[0076] Since the elastic buckle 155 extends into the slide rail 150, a third guide surface 155a is provided on the elastic buckle 155 to ensure that the locking part 320 can be smoothly installed in the slide rail 150 during initial assembly. On the other hand, the elastic buckle 155 is located at the free end of the elastic cantilever 154. With the elastic deformation of the elastic cantilever 154, the locking part 320 can slide smoothly into the slide rail 150 along the third guide surface 155a. After the locking part 320 is installed in place, the elastic buckle 155 returns to its original position under the elastic action of the elastic cantilever 154, and the second limiting part 136 limits the locking part 320 to the locked position.

[0077] Specifically, such as Figure 18As shown, in this embodiment, the operating part 310 and the locking part 320 are integrally formed. The operating part 310 drives the locking part 320 to slide under the guidance of the slide rail 150, and the sliding directions of the operating part 310 and the locking part 320 are consistent. The operating part 310 extends from the pivot shaft 311 in the direction of extending out of the through hole 141 to form a paddle that is easy for the user to operate. The operating part 310 extends into the mounting groove 130 to form a connecting part 334 that connects with the locking part 320. The locking part 320 is composed of a horizontally extending sliding part 335 and a locking groove 333 that bends upward from the sliding part 335. The locking part 320 is supported on the bearing surface 151 by the bottom surface of the sliding part 335 to maintain stable sliding within the slide rail 150; the top surface of the slide rail 150 cooperates with the anti-disengagement part 152 to limit the tendency of the locking part 320 to move upward under the action of the second reset element 135. In addition, the locking groove 333, besides forming a complementary lock with the locking hook 211 of the push-out member 210, also has a second stop wall 336 that cooperates with the second limiting part 136 to form a stop, thereby limiting the sliding stroke of the locking part 320 through the cooperation of the second stop wall 336 with the second limiting part 136.

[0078] In summary, in this embodiment, when the user needs to replace the additive box 400, the dispensing box 120 is first pulled out of the dispensing box 110, and then the operating part 310 located on the side wall of the dispensing box 120 is slid, so that the operating part 310 drives the locking part 320 to slide towards the first reset element 132. At this time, the locking part 320 leaves the locked position, the push-out component 210 loses the force of the locking part 320, and the additive box 400 is popped out under the action of the pre-tightening force of the elastic energy storage component 220.

[0079] In this embodiment, the unlocking direction of the additive box 400 is the same as the direction in which the dispensing box 120 is pushed in, and opposite to the direction in which the dispensing box 120 is pulled out (the sliding direction of the operating part 310 is the same as...). Figure 13 (The direction indicated in the text is consistent).

[0080] like Figures 14 to 16 In a preferred embodiment, another superior linear sliding operating lever 300 is also provided. The main structure of this operating lever 300 is the same as the aforementioned embodiment of the linear sliding operating lever 300, except that their sliding directions are opposite. In this embodiment, the unlocking direction of the additive box 400 is opposite to the pushing direction of the dispensing box 120, and the same as the pulling direction of the dispensing box 120. This allows the user to operate the operating unit 310 in the same direction as the pulling direction of the dispensing box 120, making it convenient for the user.

[0081] In a preferred embodiment, another type of operating lever 300 is provided, which is operated by its own elastic deformation. Specifically, the operating lever 300 is constructed as a cantilever spring integrally formed on the dispensing box 120. The root of the cantilever spring is connected to the dispensing box 120, and its free end extends to the outside of the dispensing box 120 to form an operating part 310. The operating lever 300 can be operated to produce reversible deformation.

[0082] In this embodiment, the operating lever 300 can undergo reversible deformation under external force, and its own elasticity can be used to lock or unlock the additive box 400 without the need for an additional spring. This not only reduces the number of parts but also simplifies the process and thus reduces costs.

[0083] The additive box 400 mentioned above includes a first end 420 with a liquid outlet 410 and a second end 430 away from the first end 420. In this automatic dispensing device 100, a valve body for controlling the liquid dispensing is generally provided at the liquid outlet 410. The valve body extends into the interior of the additive box 400 from the liquid outlet 410. To prevent damage to the valve body, in this embodiment, the bottom of the additive box 400 near the second end 430 is preferably lifted by the push-out component 210 to form an inclined gripping posture. This tilted posture, with the first end 420 as the fulcrum, allows the second end 430 of the additive box 400 to protrude from the chamber 121, forming a certain angle with the horizontal plane, providing a point of leverage for the user's fingers, making it easier for the user to pick up and remove the additive box 400, thus improving the convenience of operation.

[0084] It should be noted that in this embodiment, the mounting groove 130 is positioned corresponding to the second end 430 of the additive box 400 in the dispensing box 120. Considering that the mounting groove 130 is located close to the side wall of the dispensing box 120, to ensure that the ejector 210 can smoothly eject the additive box 400 and avoid the additive box 400 from tilting or shaking, the ejector 210 is designed as a flat plate structure. Preferably, the flat plate structure can support the center of the second end 430 of the additive box 400. This not only reduces the vertical space occupied, but also provides a larger area to support the additive box 400 compared to other shapes. This allows the ejector 210 to provide a more stable pushing force to eject the additive box 400 when it is released.

[0085] In addition, in this embodiment, the ejector component 210 is pivotally connected to the dispensing box 120. Specifically, the ejector component 210 has a rotating shaft 212, and the dispensing box 120 has a rotating hole. The rotating shaft 212 is inserted into the rotating hole so that the ejector component 210 rotates relative to the rotating hole. Alternatively, in another embodiment, the ejector component 210 is guided to move up and down as a whole. Specifically, the portion of the dispensing box 120 that forms the bottom wall of the chamber 121 is provided with a guide hole, and the ejector component 210 is provided with a guide rod that passes through the guide hole, allowing the guide rod to move linearly along the guide hole. With the cooperation of the guide rod and the guide hole, the ejector component 210 is kept moving up and down smoothly.

[0086] In the embodiment where the mounting slot 130 is provided, the above-mentioned guide structure may also be provided within the mounting slot 130; Alternatively, the ejector component 210 can be directly slidably engaged with the wall of the mounting groove 130 to guide the lifting and lowering movement of the ejector component 210. This lifting and lowering movement is similar to the linear movement of a button through a button hole, which can further reduce the number of parts.

[0087] In addition to the preferred embodiments described above, there are other embodiments of this utility model. All other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art based on the embodiments of this utility model without creative effort are within the scope of protection claimed by this utility model.

Claims

1. A dispensing device for a garment processing equipment, characterized in that, include: A dispensing box, including at least one open chamber for housing an additive box; The ejection device includes an ejection component movably mounted to a dispensing box and a resilient energy storage component pre-tightened by the ejection component; The operating lever includes an operating part extending outside the dispensing box and a locking part integrally linked with the operating part. The ejection component is directly locked by the locking part to maintain pre-tightness of the elastic energy storage component. The operating part can be operably driven to release the ejection component by the locking part. The ejection component is pushed by the elastic force released by the elastic energy storage component to push the additive box at least partially out of the chamber.

2. The dispensing device of the laundry treating apparatus as claimed in claim 1, wherein, The operating lever also includes a pivot shaft or pivot hole located between the operating part and the locking part for pivotally connecting the dispensing box, and the operating lever can be operably rotated relative to the dispensing box.

3. The dispensing device of the laundry treating apparatus as claimed in claim 2, wherein the dispensing device is provided with a plurality of dispensing units, each of which is provided with a plurality of dispensing holes. The distribution box is provided with a first reset element and a first limiting part. The first reset element is pre-tightened by the operating lever to maintain the movement tendency of the locking part towards the locking position. The first limiting part limits the rotation stroke of the operating lever by stopping the locking part or the operating part.

4. The dispensing device of the clothing processing equipment as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The dispensing box is provided with a sliding track that engages with and locks the part, and the operating lever can be operably slid relative to the dispensing box in the direction defined by the sliding track.

5. The dispensing device of the clothing processing equipment as described in claim 4, characterized in that, The distribution box is provided with a second reset element and a second limiting part. The second reset element is pre-tightened by the locking part to maintain the tendency of the locking part to move towards the locking position. The second limiting part is located in the slide rail and limits the sliding stroke of the operating lever by the stop locking part.

6. The dispensing device of the clothing processing equipment as described in claim 5, characterized in that, The bottom of the slide has a bearing surface that supports the locking part, and the slide is also provided with an anti-detachment part located above the locking part.

7. The dispensing device of the clothing processing equipment as described in claim 6, characterized in that, The dispensing box is provided with an elastic buckle extending into the slide, and the second limiting part and the anti-detachment part are integrally formed on the elastic buckle.

8. The dispensing device of the clothing processing equipment as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The operating lever is constructed as a cantilever spring integrally formed on the dispensing box. The root of the cantilever spring is connected to the dispensing box, and its free end extends to the outside of the dispensing box to form an operating part. The operating lever can be operated to produce reversible deformation.

9. The dispensing device of the clothing processing equipment as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The bottom surface of the chamber is sunken to form an installation groove, and the locking part is located in the installation groove. When the push-out component is locked by the locking part, it covers the opening of the installation groove.

10. The dispensing device of the clothing processing equipment as described in claim 9, characterized in that, When the ejector is locked by the locking part, it supports the additive box together with the bottom surface of the chamber.

11. The dispensing device of the clothing processing equipment as described in claim 9, characterized in that, The side wall or bottom wall of the dispensing box is provided with a through hole for connecting the mounting groove, and the operating part extends to the outside of the dispensing box through the through hole.

12. The dispensing device of the clothes treating apparatus as claimed in claim 1, wherein The outer side of the dispensing box is provided with a recess, and the operating part moves within the space defined by the recess.

13. The dispensing device of the laundry treating apparatus as claimed in claim 1, wherein The ejector component is pivotally connected to the dispensing box; or, the ejector component is guided to move up and down as a whole.

14. The dispensing device of the clothes treating apparatus as claimed in claim 1, wherein One of the locking part and the ejection part is provided with a locking hook, and the other is provided with a locking groove. The locking hook and the locking groove form a complementary and separable locking connection.

15. The dispensing device of the clothing processing equipment as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The additive box includes a first end with a liquid outlet and a second end away from the first end. The bottom of the additive box near the second end is pushed up by a push-out component to form an inclined gripping posture.

16. The dispensing device of the clothes treating apparatus as claimed in claim 1, wherein The dispensing device also includes a dispensing box with a side opening, which is pushed in or partially pulled out through the side opening, and the release operation direction of the operating part is opposite to the pushing direction of the dispensing box.

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