Spray arm assembly and dishwasher

Abstract

The application discloses a spray arm assembly and a dishwasher. The spray arm assembly comprises a first spray arm, a second spray arm and a transmission mechanism. The first spray arm is adapted to rotate around a first axis. The transmission mechanism is drivingly connected between the first spray arm and the second spray arm. The transmission mechanism is adapted to drive the second spray arm to reciprocally swing around the first axis when the first spray arm rotates around the first axis. The rotation of the first spray arm around the first axis is a 360° rotation. The reciprocally swinging of the second spray arm around the first axis is a rotation within a limited angle range. Through the arrangement of the second spray arm, the cleaning of the area which is not cleaned well or not cleaned by the first spray arm can be strengthened or supplemented, and the cleaning effect is improved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of dishwasher technology, and in particular to a spray arm assembly and a dishwasher. Background Technology

[0002] Dishwashers have spray arms that rotate simultaneously as they spray water to clean dishes. Currently, the spray arms rotate 360° around an axis, which is insufficient to meet the needs of the dishwasher industry and needs to be improved. Utility Model Content

[0003] This application aims to at least partially address one of the technical problems in the related art. To this end, this application proposes a spray arm assembly.

[0004] To achieve the above objectives, this application discloses a spray arm assembly, the spray arm assembly comprising: The first spray arm is adapted to rotate around the first axis; Second spray arm; and A transmission mechanism is connected between the first spray arm and the second spray arm, and the transmission mechanism is adapted to drive the second spray arm to reciprocate around the first axis when the first spray arm rotates around the first axis.

[0005] In some embodiments of this application, when viewed axially along the first axis, the second spray arm extends beyond the coverage area of ​​the first spray arm.

[0006] In some embodiments of this application, when viewed axially along the first axis, both ends of the second spray arm are located outside the coverage area of ​​the first spray arm.

[0007] In some embodiments of this application, the transmission mechanism includes an input gear and an output gear. The input gear and the first spray arm are adapted to rotate synchronously around the first axis. The output gear is connected to the input gear in a transmission manner. The output gear is adapted to rotate around a second axis when the input gear rotates around the first axis, so as to drive the second spray arm to oscillate back and forth around the first axis.

[0008] In some embodiments of this application, the output gear is provided with an eccentric portion offset from the second axis, the second spray arm is provided with a sliding groove, the eccentric portion is inserted into the sliding groove, and the output gear is adapted to drive the second spray arm to reciprocate around the first axis through the cooperation of the eccentric portion and the sliding groove when rotating around the second axis.

[0009] In some embodiments of this application, the groove points to the first axis, and / or the second axis is parallel to the first axis.

[0010] In some embodiments of this application, the spray arm assembly further includes a water inlet shaft, which is adapted to be rotatably connected to and in communication with the spray arm base; The first spray arm, the input gear, and the water inlet shaft are fixedly connected and adapted to rotate synchronously around the first axis. The first spray arm and the water inlet shaft are connected, and the second spray arm and the water inlet shaft are connected.

[0011] In some embodiments of this application, the input gear is sleeved on the water inlet shaft and mutually limited with the water inlet shaft in the circumferential direction along the first axis. The first spray arm is provided with a water inlet connector. After the water inlet connector and the water inlet shaft are fixedly connected, the input gear is limited between the water inlet connector of the first spray arm and the water inlet shaft.

[0012] In some embodiments of this application, one of the input gear and the water inlet shaft is provided with a notch and the other is provided with a locking protrusion. The locking protrusion and the notch are adapted to be inserted into each other along the axial direction of the first axis to limit each other in the circumferential direction along the first axis.

[0013] In some embodiments of this application, the second spray arm is sleeved on the water inlet connector and is adapted to reciprocate around the water inlet connector. The side wall of the water inlet connector is provided with a water passage hole. The second spray arm is connected to the water inlet shaft through the water passage hole. The input gear is adapted to form a stop in the direction in which the second spray arm disengages from the water inlet connector.

[0014] In some embodiments of this application, the spray arm assembly further includes a mounting base with a clearance hole. One end of the water inlet shaft passes through the clearance hole and is fixedly connected to the input gear, which is located above the mounting base.

[0015] In some embodiments of this application, the upper surface of the mounting base is provided with a support column, and the output gear is rotatably mounted on the upper surface of the mounting base via the support column.

[0016] In some embodiments of this application, the lower end of the mounting base is provided with a snap-fit ​​portion that engages with the spray arm seat. The mounting base and the spray arm seat are snap-fitted together to limit the water inlet shaft between the mounting base and the spray arm seat.

[0017] In some embodiments of this application, a retaining ring is provided on the circumferential surface of the water inlet shaft, the outer diameter of the retaining ring being larger than the diameter of the clearance hole, and the retaining ring being clamped between the mounting base and the spray arm base.

[0018] In some embodiments of this application, the second spray arm is disposed between the first spray arm and the mounting base, and the input gear and the output gear are disposed between the second spray arm and the mounting base.

[0019] A second aspect of this application discloses a dishwasher that includes the aforementioned spray arm assembly.

[0020] In the technical solution of this application, the first spray arm rotates around the first axis in a 360° rotation, and the second spray arm swings back and forth around the first axis in a rotation within a limited angle range. By setting the second spray arm, areas that are not cleaned well or cannot be cleaned by the first spray arm can be strengthened or supplemented for cleaning, thereby improving the cleaning effect.

[0021] Other advantages of this application will be set forth in part in the description which follows, and in part will be obvious from the description or may be learned by practice of this application. Attached Figure Description

[0022] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this application or the prior art, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of this application. For those skilled in the art, other designs can be obtained based on the structures shown in these drawings without creative effort.

[0023] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the spray arm assembly spraying in some embodiments; Figure 2 for Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the coverage area of ​​the spray arm assembly shown; Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of another spray arm assembly spraying in some embodiments; Figure 4 for Figure 3 A schematic diagram of the coverage area of ​​the spray arm assembly shown; Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the spray arm assembly in some embodiments; Figure 6 Side view of the spray arm assembly in some embodiments; Figure 7 for Figure 6 A magnified view of a portion of the structure shown. Figure 8 Cross-sectional views of the spray arm assembly in some embodiments; Figure 9 for Figure 8 A magnified view of a portion of the structure shown. Figure 10 This is a partial enlarged view of the first spray arm in some embodiments; Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of the input gear in some embodiments; Figure 12 This is a schematic diagram of the mounting base in some embodiments; Figure 13This is a schematic diagram of the water inlet shaft in some embodiments; Figure 14 This is a schematic diagram of the spray arm mount in some embodiments.

[0024] Explanation of icon numbers: First spray arm 100, water inlet connector 110, water passage hole 111, second spray arm 200, slide groove 210, transmission mechanism 300, input gear 310, notch 311, output gear 320, eccentric part 321, mounting base 400, snap-fit ​​part 410, support column 420, snap block 430, clearance hole 440, water inlet shaft 500, snap protrusion 510, retaining ring 530, spray arm seat 600, snap-fit ​​part 610, retaining groove 620, washing chamber 700, first axis 810, second axis 820.

[0025] The realization of the purpose, functional features and advantages of this application will be further explained in conjunction with the embodiments and with reference to the accompanying drawings. Detailed Implementation

[0026] The technical solutions of the embodiments of this application will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only a part of the embodiments of this application, and not all of the embodiments. Based on the embodiments of this application, all other embodiments obtained by those of ordinary skill in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this application.

[0027] It should be noted that all directional indicators (such as up, down, left, right, front, back, etc.) in the embodiments of this application are only used to explain the relative positional relationship and movement of each component in a certain specific posture (as shown in the figure). If the specific posture changes, the directional indicator will also change accordingly.

[0028] In this application, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, the terms "connection," "fixed," etc., should be interpreted broadly. For example, "fixed" can mean a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral part; it can mean a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; it can mean a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; it can mean the internal communication of two components or the interaction between two components, unless otherwise expressly limited. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this application according to the specific circumstances.

[0029] Furthermore, the use of terms such as "first" and "second" in this application is for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying their relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of technical features indicated. Therefore, a feature defined as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include at least one of those features. Additionally, the technical solutions of the various embodiments can be combined with each other, but only on the basis of being achievable by those skilled in the art. If the combination of technical solutions is contradictory or impossible to implement, such a combination of technical solutions should be considered non-existent and not within the scope of protection claimed in this application.

[0030] The first aspect of this application discloses a spray arm assembly, which in some embodiments is combined with Figure 1 , Figure 2 as well as Figures 5 to 9 As shown, the spray arm assembly includes a first spray arm 100, a second spray arm 200, and a transmission mechanism 300. The first spray arm 100 is adapted to rotate around a first axis 810. When viewed along the axial direction of the first axis 810, the second spray arm 200 extends beyond the coverage area of ​​the first spray arm 100. The transmission mechanism 300 is connected between the first spray arm 100 and the second spray arm 200. The transmission mechanism 300 is adapted to drive the second spray arm 200 to reciprocate around the first axis 810 when the first spray arm 100 rotates around the first axis 810.

[0031] Specifically, the force required for the first spray arm 100 to rotate around the first axis 810 can be achieved by the torque obtained from the jet of water. For example, the first spray arm 100 is provided with a drive hole, the orientation of which is constant relative to the first spray arm 100. The water pumped by the washing pump is delivered to the interior of the first spray arm 100 and ejected through the drive hole. When the water is ejected from the drive hole, it generates torque on the first spray arm 100, thus driving the first spray arm 100 to rotate around the first axis 810. Typically, in order to generate a larger torque, the drive hole can be located on the first spray arm 100 away from the first axis 810.

[0032] The transmission mechanism 300 is connected between the first spray arm 100 and the second spray arm 200. When the first spray arm 100 rotates around the first axis 810, the first spray arm 100 transmits power to the transmission mechanism 300, and then transmits power to the second spray arm 200 through the transmission mechanism 300, so that the second spray arm 200 swings back and forth around the first axis 810.

[0033] The first spray arm 100 rotates 360° around the first axis 810, while the second spray arm 200 oscillates back and forth around the first axis 810 within a limited angular range. The second spray arm 200 allows for enhanced or supplementary cleaning of areas poorly or inaccessibly cleaned by the first spray arm 100, improving cleaning effectiveness. For example, if the first spray arm 100 sprays water upwards and the second spray arm 200 sprays water downwards, it can clean an area located below the first spray arm 100. Alternatively, if the first spray arm 100 sprays water upwards and the second spray arm 200 targets areas poorly cleaned by the first spray arm 100, it can enhance cleaning. The second spray arm 200 frees traditional spray arms from the limitation of a simple 360° rotation, meeting the development needs of the dishwasher industry.

[0034] In some embodiments, viewed axially along the first axis 810, the second spray arm 200 extends beyond the coverage area of ​​the first spray arm 100. The rotation of the first spray arm 100 forms a generally circular coverage area, and the second spray arm 200 extends beyond the coverage area of ​​the first spray arm 100 and performs a reciprocating oscillating motion, thereby forming supplementary coverage outside the coverage area of ​​the first spray arm 100. This effectively increases the washing coverage area of ​​the spray arm assembly, and for the washing chamber 700 with a rectangular horizontal cross-section, it effectively reduces the formation of washing dead corners and improves the cleaning effect.

[0035] Specifically, viewed along the axial direction of the first axis 810, the rotation of the first spray arm 100 around the first axis 810 can form a roughly circular coverage area (see...). Figure 2 In area A), the first spray arm 100 sprays water towards its coverage area, which can have a good cleaning effect on the tableware within its coverage area (e.g., the first spray arm 100 is provided with multiple spray holes, through which water is sprayed towards its coverage area).

[0036] Viewed axially along the first axis 810, the second spray arm 200 extends beyond the coverage area of ​​the first spray arm 100. When the second spray arm 200 swings back and forth, it can form supplementary coverage outside the coverage area of ​​the first spray arm 100. Figure 2In area B of the first spray arm 100, the second spray arm 200 can spray water outside the coverage area of ​​the first spray arm 100 to rinse dishes outside the coverage area of ​​the first spray arm 100 (e.g., the part of the second spray arm 200 outside the coverage area of ​​the first spray arm 100 is provided with spray holes, through which water is sprayed outside the coverage area of ​​the first spray arm 100). This provides a better cleaning effect for dishes outside the coverage area of ​​the first spray arm 100. Since the second spray arm 200 only oscillates back and forth without rotating around the first axis 810, by controlling the oscillation angle of the second spray arm 200, areas not covered by the first spray arm 100 can be effectively supplemented, reducing the formation of washing dead corners. This is especially suitable for dishwashers with a rectangular horizontal cross-section of the washing chamber 700.

[0037] It is understood that, when viewed along the axial direction of the first axis 810, the second spray arm 200 extends beyond the coverage area of ​​the first spray arm 100, including but not limited to the following situations: one end of the second spray arm 200 may be located outside the coverage area of ​​the first spray arm 100, or both ends of the second spray arm 200 may be located outside the coverage area of ​​the first spray arm 100.

[0038] To further illustrate, let's take a dishwasher with a rectangular horizontal cross-section where the spray arm assembly is applied to the washing chamber 700 as an example.

[0039] Referring to Figures 1 and 2, the spray arm assembly is installed at the bottom and center of the washing chamber 700. The first axis 810 is vertically oriented, and the first spray arm 100 and the second spray arm 200 spray water upwards to rinse the dishes. The first spray arm 100 forms a roughly circular coverage area (see Figure 2). Figure 2 In area A), the area in front of and behind the coverage of the first spray arm 100 constitutes a washing dead zone relative to the first spray arm 100. The two ends of the second spray arm 200 are located outside the coverage of the first spray arm 100 (one end is in front of the coverage of the first spray arm 100, and the other end is behind the coverage of the first spray arm 100). Through the reciprocating swing of the second spray arm 200, the ends of the second spray arm 200 outside the coverage of the first spray arm 100 (in front and behind) respectively form supplementary coverage in front of and behind the coverage of the first spray arm 100 (see...). Figure 2 In area B), the combined coverage area formed by the first spray arm 100 and the second spray arm 200 is closer to the horizontal cross-section of the washing chamber 700, effectively increasing the washing coverage area, reducing the formation of washing dead corners, and thus improving the cleaning effect on tableware.

[0040] Combination Figure 3 and Figure 4As shown, the spray arm assembly is installed at the bottom and forward of the washing chamber 700, with the first axis 810 vertically positioned. The first spray arm 100 and the second spray arm 200 spray water upwards to rinse the dishes. The first spray arm 100 forms a roughly circular coverage area (see...). Figure 4 In area A), the area behind the coverage of the first spray arm 100 constitutes a washing dead zone relative to the first spray arm 100. One end of the second spray arm 200 is located outside (behind) the coverage of the first spray arm 100. Through the reciprocating swing of the second spray arm 200, the end of the second spray arm 200 located outside (behind) the coverage of the first spray arm 100 forms supplementary coverage behind the coverage of the first spray arm 100 (see...). Figure 4 In area B), the combined coverage area formed by the first spray arm 100 and the second spray arm 200 is closer to the horizontal cross-section of the washing chamber 700, effectively increasing the washing coverage area, reducing the formation of washing dead corners, and thus improving the cleaning effect on tableware.

[0041] Since the reciprocating oscillation of the second spray arm 200 is around the first axis 810, and the rotation of the first spray arm 100 is also around the first axis 810, meaning that the second spray arm 200 and the first spray arm 100 are coaxially arranged, the coverage area of ​​the first spray arm 100 is essentially constant, and the supplementary coverage area formed by the second spray arm 200 outside the coverage area of ​​the first spray arm 100 is also essentially constant, ensuring the cleaning effect on tableware. Furthermore, by coaxially arranging the second spray arm 200 and the first spray arm 100, the reciprocating oscillation of the second spray arm 200 will not superimpose and affect the rotational motion of the first spray arm 100. This reduces the design complexity of the corresponding structure for water jetting by the first spray arm 100 (such as the shape and angle of the spray nozzles).

[0042] In some embodiments, combined with Figures 5 to 9 As shown, the transmission mechanism 300 includes an input gear 310 and an output gear 320. The input gear 310 and the first spray arm 100 are adapted to rotate synchronously around the first axis 810. The output gear 320 is connected to the input gear 310 in a transmission manner. The output gear 320 is adapted to rotate around the second axis 820 when the input gear 310 rotates around the first axis 810. The output gear 320 is adapted to drive the second spray arm 200 to reciprocate around the first axis 810 when it rotates around the second axis 820.

[0043] When the first spray arm 100 rotates around the first axis 810, the input gear 310 rotates synchronously around the first axis 810. That is, the first spray arm 100 and the input gear 310 are coaxially arranged. Through the transmission connection between the input gear 310 and the output gear 320, the output gear 320 is driven to rotate around the second axis 820. The rotation of the output gear 320 around the second axis 820 is converted into the reciprocating oscillation of the second spray arm 200. The transmission connection between the input gear 310 and the output gear 320 can be achieved through direct meshing, or at least one intermediate gear can be set between the input gear 310 and the output gear 320. Usually, direct meshing of the input gear 310 and the output gear 320 is sufficient to provide the force required for the reciprocating oscillation of the second spray arm 200. This helps to simplify the structure and make the structural layout more compact.

[0044] There are several ways to convert the rotation of the output gear 320 around the second axis 820 into the reciprocating oscillation of the second spray arm 200. For example, a crank-rocker mechanism can be formed between the output gear 320 and the second spray arm 200, with the output gear 320 acting as a crank and the second spray arm 200 acting as a rocker. Alternatively, see [link to relevant documentation]. Figures 5 to 9 As shown, in some embodiments, the output gear 320 is provided with an eccentric portion 321 that deviates from the second axis 820, and the second spray arm 200 is provided with a slide groove 210. The eccentric portion 321 is inserted into the slide groove 210. The output gear 320 is adapted to drive the second spray arm 200 to reciprocate around the first axis 810 through the cooperation of the eccentric portion 321 and the slide groove 210 when rotating around the second axis 820.

[0045] When the output gear 320 rotates around the second axis 820, the eccentric part 321 follows the rotation of the output gear 320 and makes a similar eccentric motion. During this process, the opposite side walls of the slide 210 are alternately abutted by the eccentric part 321. When the eccentric part 321 abuts with one side wall of the slide 210, it can drive the second spray arm 200 to swing in one direction (such as counterclockwise). When the eccentric part 321 abuts with the other side wall of the slide 210, it can drive the second spray arm 200 to swing in the opposite direction (such as clockwise). That is to say, the second axis 820 is not coincident with the first axis 810 and is parallel to it. A force arm is formed between the position where the slide 210 is abutted by the eccentric part 321 and the first axis 810, thereby realizing the reciprocating swing of the second spray arm 200.

[0046] By continuously rotating the output gear 320 around the second axis 820, the second spray arm 200 can continuously swing within a predetermined angle range. The reciprocating swing angle of the second spray arm 200 is related to the distance between the eccentric part 321 and the second axis 820, and can be set according to actual needs. During the reciprocating swing of the second spray arm 200, the eccentric part 321 moves back and forth within the slide groove 210 relative to the slide groove 210. The reciprocating swing of the second spray arm 200 is achieved by the combination of the eccentric part 321 and the slide groove 210, which helps to reduce the number of parts and simplify the structure.

[0047] In some embodiments, combined with Figure 5 As shown, the slide 210 points towards the first axis 810. Assuming the slide 210 is a straight line segment, it intersects the first axis 810, or in other words, the extension of the straight line segment intersects the first axis 810. This arrangement results in a more linear relationship between the reciprocating oscillation of the second spray arm 200 and the rotation of the output gear 320 around the second axis 820, preventing the eccentric part 321 from experiencing sudden changes in speed at the end of its stroke within the slide 210. Furthermore, since the slide 210 points towards the first axis 810, when the eccentric part 321 abuts against the side wall of the slide 210, the component force generated along the extension direction of the slide 210 also points towards the first axis 810. This avoids additional wear on the swing center of the second spray arm 200 and the structure supporting the second spray arm 200, reducing abnormal noise.

[0048] In some embodiments, combined with Figures 5 to 9 As shown, the spray arm assembly also includes a water inlet shaft 500, which is adapted to be rotatably connected to and communicate with the spray arm seat 600. The first spray arm 100, the input gear 310 and the water inlet shaft 500 are fixedly connected and adapted to rotate synchronously around the first axis 810. The first spray arm 100 and the water inlet shaft 500 are connected, and the second spray arm 200 and the water inlet shaft 500 are connected.

[0049] Specifically, the first spray arm 100, the input gear 310, and the water inlet shaft 500 are fixedly connected together, maintaining their respective positions. This fixed connection can be direct or indirect. With this arrangement, when the first spray arm 100 rotates around the first axis 810, it synchronously drives the input gear 310 and the water inlet shaft 500 to rotate around the first axis 810, meaning the first spray arm 100, input gear 310, and water inlet shaft 500 are coaxially arranged. Since the water inlet shaft 500 and the spray arm seat 600 are rotatably connected, the spray arm seat 600 thus provides rotational support for the first spray arm 100, input gear 310, and water inlet shaft 500. In other words, the first axis 810 passes through the first spray arm 100, input gear 310, water inlet shaft 500, and spray arm seat 600. The first spray arm 100 and the second spray arm 200 are respectively connected to the water inlet shaft 500. The water inlet shaft 500 is connected to the spray arm seat 600. During the process of the first spray arm 100 rotating around the first axis 810 and the second spray arm 200 reciprocating around the first axis 810, the water flows through the spray arm seat 600 and the water inlet shaft 500 in sequence to enter the first spray arm 100 and the second spray arm 200.

[0050] Since the second spray arm 200 swings back and forth around the first axis 810, and is fixedly connected to the first spray arm 100, the input gear 310 and the water inlet shaft 500, the second spray arm 200 is sleeved on the structure formed by the fixed connection of the first spray arm 100, the input gear 310 and the water inlet shaft 500.

[0051] Understandably, the spray arm holder 600 is a structure used to receive water supply and support the spray arm assembly. It is typically fixedly installed in the washing chamber 700. The spray arm holder 600 is connected to the outlet of the washing pump, allowing the water supplied by the washing pump to flow to the spray arm holder 600. The water inlet shaft 500 is a hollow structure. Its rotatable connection with the spray arm holder 600 can be achieved by either inserting the water inlet shaft 500 into the spray arm holder 600 and rotatably engaging it, or by sleeve the water inlet shaft 500 onto the spray arm holder 600 and rotatably engaging it. This achieves the connection between the water inlet shaft 500 and the spray arm holder 600.

[0052] In some embodiments, combined with Figures 5 to 9 As shown, the input gear 310 is sleeved on the water inlet shaft 500 and mutually limits each other with the water inlet shaft 500 along the circumferential direction of the first axis 810. The first spray arm 100 is provided with a water inlet connector 110. After the water inlet connector 110 and the water inlet shaft 500 are fixedly connected, the input gear 310 is limited between the water inlet connector 110 and the water inlet shaft 500 of the first spray arm 100. In this way, the first spray arm 100 forms a stop in the direction in which the input gear 310 disengages from the water inlet shaft 500.

[0053] In this embodiment, the input gear 310 is sleeved on the water inlet shaft 500, which is equivalent to the input gear 310 being located outside the water inlet shaft 500, facilitating its engagement with the output gear 320. When the input gear 310 is sleeved on the water inlet shaft 500, the input gear 310 and the water inlet shaft 500 are mutually restrained along the circumferential direction of the first axis 810, so that the input gear 310 and the water inlet shaft 500 can rotate synchronously around the first axis 810. To prevent the input gear 310 from disengaging from the water inlet shaft 500, the first spray arm 100 is designed to form a stop in the direction in which the input gear 310 disengages from the water inlet shaft 500. For example, the input gear 310 is first... The first spray arm 100 is fixedly connected to the water inlet shaft 500 after being sleeved onto the water inlet shaft 500. After the first spray arm 100 and the water inlet shaft 500 are fixedly connected, the input gear 310 is limited between the water inlet connector 110 of the first spray arm 100 and the water inlet shaft 500. The first spray arm 100 abuts against the input gear 310 in the direction in which the input gear 310 is disengaged from the water inlet shaft 500. This forms an axial limit on the input gear 310 along the first axis 810. Through this cooperation, the fixed connection between the input gear 310 and the water inlet shaft 500 is achieved, which helps to simplify the structural cooperation between the input gear 310 and the water inlet shaft 500.

[0054] Optionally, the fixed connection between the first spray arm 100 and the water inlet shaft 500 can be achieved by a rotating snap fastener. A rotating snap fastener means that the parts connecting the first spray arm 100 and the water inlet shaft 500 are engaged by mating and rotating at a certain angle, thus fixing the first spray arm 100 and the water inlet shaft 500 together. For example, the first spray arm 100 has a water inlet connector 110, which is arranged around the first axis 810. Water enters the first spray arm 100 through the water inlet connector 110. When the first spray arm 100 is fixedly connected to the water inlet shaft 500, the water inlet connector 110 and the water inlet shaft 500 are fixedly connected by a rotating snap fastener. At this time, the water inlet connector 110 and the water inlet shaft 500 are connected, and the water flow delivered by the water inlet shaft 500 enters the interior of the first spray arm 100 through the water inlet connector 110.

[0055] To facilitate the circumferential mutual restraint between the input gear 310 and the water inlet shaft 500, in some embodiments, combined with Figure 11 and Figure 13As shown, one of the input gear 310 and the water inlet shaft 500 is provided with a notch 311 and the other is provided with a locking protrusion 510. The locking protrusion 510 and the notch 311 are adapted to be inserted into each other along the axial direction of the first axis 810 to limit each other along the circumferential direction of the first axis 810. For example, the inner circumferential wall of the input gear 310 is provided with a plurality of notches 311 that are alternately distributed along the circumferential direction of the first axis 810, and the outer circumferential wall of the water inlet shaft 500 is provided with a plurality of locking protrusions 510 that are alternately distributed along the circumferential direction of the first axis 810. When the input gear 310 and the water inlet shaft 500 are assembled, the input gear 310 and the water inlet shaft 500 move towards each other along the axial direction of the first axis 810, so that the input gear 310 is sleeved on the water inlet shaft 500 and the locking protrusion 510 is inserted into the notch 311. In this way, the locking protrusion 510 and the notch 311 cooperate with each other to achieve limitation along the circumferential direction of the first axis 810.

[0056] In some embodiments, combined with Figure 9 and Figure 10 As shown, the second spray arm 200 is sleeved on the water inlet connector 110 and is adapted to swing back and forth around the water inlet connector 110. The side wall of the water inlet connector 110 is provided with a water passage hole 111, and the second spray arm 200 is connected to the water inlet shaft 500 through the water passage hole 111.

[0057] Specifically, the fixed connection between the water inlet connector 110 and the water inlet shaft 500 can be achieved by rotating a snap fastener. Either a portion of the water inlet connector 110 can be inserted into the water inlet shaft 500 and then fixedly connected by rotating the snap fastener, or a portion of the water inlet shaft 500 can be inserted into the water inlet connector 110 and fixedly connected by rotating the snap fastener. In this embodiment, the water inlet connector 110 is set based on the first spray arm 100, and the second spray arm 200 is sleeved on the water inlet connector 110, rather than sleeved on the water inlet shaft 500. The water inlet shaft 500 does not need to be excessively long, thus helping to reduce the axial space occupied. It is understandable that the second spray arm 200 is sleeved on the water inlet connector 110 and swings back and forth around the water inlet connector 110. That is, the central axis of the water inlet connector 110 is the first axis 810. If we only consider the water inlet connector 110 and the second spray arm 200, the second spray arm 200 and the water inlet connector 110 are rotatably coupled and need to be reciprocated with the cooperation of the transmission mechanism 300.

[0058] With the second spray arm 200 fitted onto the water inlet connector 110, to facilitate the receiving of water flow by the second spray arm 200, a water passage hole 111 is provided on the side wall of the water inlet connector 110. The position where the second spray arm 200 is fitted onto the water inlet connector 110 is open and communicates with the interior of the second spray arm 200. Thus, water flows from the spray arm seat 600 through the water inlet shaft 500 and into the water inlet connector 110. Part of the water flows into the interior of the second spray arm 200 through the water passage hole 111, and part of the water flows into the interior of the first spray arm 100 from the water inlet connector 110, thereby achieving water supply to the first spray arm 100 and the second spray arm 200. Since the second spray arm 200 needs to reciprocate, in order to ensure that the second spray arm 200 receives water flow during the reciprocating swing, multiple water passage holes 111 can be designed, with multiple water passage holes 111 arranged alternately along the circumference of the water inlet connector 110.

[0059] In some embodiments, combined with Figure 9 As shown, the input gear 310 is adapted to form a stop in the direction in which the second spray arm 200 disengages from the water inlet connector 110. Since the water inlet shaft 500, the input gear 310 and the first spray arm 100 are fixedly connected together, when the second spray arm 200 is sleeved on the water inlet connector 110, the input gear 310 forms a stop in the direction in which the second spray arm 200 disengages from the water inlet connector 110, thus creating an axial limit on the second spray arm 200, thereby holding the second spray arm 200 on the water inlet connector 110, which helps to reduce structural complexity.

[0060] In some embodiments, combined with Figures 5 to 9 As shown, the spray arm assembly also includes a mounting base 400, which is used to mount the output gear 320. The mounting base 400 is provided with a clearance hole 440. One end of the water inlet shaft 500 passes through the clearance hole 440 and is fixedly connected to the input gear 310. The input gear 310 is located above the mounting base 400.

[0061] In this embodiment, the output gear 320 is supported by the mounting base 400. The mounting base 400 is provided with a clearance hole 440 for one end of the water inlet shaft 500 to pass through, which facilitates the cooperation between the input gear 310 and the water inlet shaft 500.

[0062] Optionally, the upper surface of the mounting base 400 is provided with a support column 420, and the output gear 320 is rotatably mounted on the upper surface of the mounting base 400 via the support column 420. The mounting base 400 may be provided with a support column 420, and the output gear 320 is sleeved on the support column 420 through its shaft hole, so that it can rotate around the support column 420, that is, the central axis of the support column 420 is the second axis 820.

[0063] Typically, the spray arm holder 600 is fixed. Through the fixed connection between the mounting base 400 and the spray arm holder 600, the relative positions of the mounting base 400 and the spray arm holder 600 remain unchanged. This ensures that the mounting base 400 is also fixed, laying the foundation for the output gear 320 to drive the reciprocating oscillation of the second spray arm 200. Based on the design of the mounting base 400, in some embodiments, combined with... Figure 9 As shown, the lower end of the mounting base 400 is provided with a snap-fit ​​part 410 that engages with the spray arm seat 600. The mounting base 400 and the spray arm seat 600 are snap-fitted together to limit the water inlet shaft 500 between the mounting base 400 and the spray arm seat 600. Thus, the mounting base 400 forms a stop in the direction in which the water inlet shaft 500 disengages from the spray arm seat 600. As can be seen from the above, the water inlet shaft 500 and the spray arm seat 600 are rotatably connected. This rotatability can be achieved by the water inlet shaft 500 being inserted into the spray arm seat 600 or by the water inlet shaft 500 being sleeved on the spray arm seat 600. To prevent the water inlet shaft 500 from disengaging from the spray arm seat 600, based on the configuration of the mounting base 400, the mounting base 400 is designed to form a stop in the direction in which the water inlet shaft 500 disengages from the spray arm seat 600. This provides axial limitation for the water inlet shaft 500, ensuring the rotational engagement of the water inlet shaft 500 and the spray arm seat 600.

[0064] The mounting base 400 and the spray arm seat 600 are fixedly connected by a snap-fit ​​connection. The mounting base 400 is provided with a snap-fit ​​part 410, and the spray arm seat 600 is provided with a fastening part 610. During assembly, the mounting base 400 moves relative to the spray arm seat 600 along the axial direction of the first axis 810, so that the snap-fit ​​part 410 and the fastening part 610 cooperate to form a snap-fit ​​connection. In this way, the mounting base 400 and the spray arm seat 600 are not easily separated along the axial direction of the first axis 810. At this time, the water inlet shaft 500 is limited between the mounting base 400 and the spray arm seat 600. Through the corresponding structural settings on the mounting base 400, the water inlet shaft 500 can be stopped in the direction in which it separates from the spray arm seat 600. In order to prevent the mounting base 400 from rotating, the mounting base is provided with a locking block 430, and the spray arm seat 600 is provided with a retaining groove 620. Figure 7 , Figure 12 and Figure 14 As shown, the locking block 430 is embedded in the retaining groove 620, thereby restricting the rotation of the mounting base 400.

[0065] Optionally, a retaining ring 530 is provided on the circumferential surface of the water inlet shaft 500. The outer diameter of the retaining ring 530 is larger than the diameter of the clearance hole 440. The retaining ring 530 is clamped between the mounting base 400 and the spray arm seat 600. The retaining ring 530 protrudes from the circumferential surface of the water inlet shaft 500. Thus, after the mounting base 400 and the spray arm seat 600 are connected, the retaining ring 530 is clamped, limiting the water inlet shaft 500 to be located between the mounting base 400 and the spray arm seat 600.

[0066] In some embodiments, combined with Figures 5 to 9As shown, the second spray arm 200 is located between the first spray arm 100 and the mounting base 400, and the input gear 310 and the output gear 320 are located between the second spray arm 200 and the mounting base 400. This helps to reduce the axial space occupied, making the structure of the spray arm assembly more compact.

[0067] This application also discloses a dishwasher, combined with Figures 1 to 14 As shown, the dishwasher includes the aforementioned spray arm assembly. A spray arm seat 600 is provided at the bottom of the washing chamber 700 of the dishwasher. The spray arm assembly is installed on the spray arm seat 600. The spray arm assembly includes a first spray arm 100, a second spray arm 200, and a transmission mechanism 300. The first spray arm 100 is adapted to rotate around a first axis 810. The transmission mechanism 300 is drively connected between the first spray arm 100 and the second spray arm 200. The transmission mechanism 300 is adapted to drive the second spray arm 200 to reciprocate around the first axis 810 when the first spray arm 100 rotates around the first axis 810.

[0068] The first spray arm 100 rotates 360° around the first axis 810, while the second spray arm 200 oscillates back and forth around the first axis 810 within a limited angular range. By using the second spray arm 200, areas that are poorly or inaccessible to the first spray arm 100 can be cleaned more effectively or supplementarily, thus improving the cleaning result. It is understood that the dishwasher spray arm assembly of this embodiment adopts the technical solution of the above embodiments, and therefore possesses at least the beneficial effects brought by the technical solutions of the above embodiments, which will not be repeated here.

[0069] The above description is merely a preferred embodiment of this application and does not limit the patent scope of this application. Any equivalent structural transformations made based on the concept of this application and the contents of the specification and drawings of this application, or direct / indirect applications in other related technical fields, are included within the patent protection scope of this application.

Claims

1. A spray arm assembly, characterized in that, The spray arm assembly includes: The first spray arm (100) is adapted to rotate about the first axis (810); Second spray arm (200); and A transmission mechanism (300) is connected between the first spray arm (100) and the second spray arm (200). The transmission mechanism (300) is adapted to drive the second spray arm (200) to reciprocate around the first axis (810) when the first spray arm (100) rotates around the first axis (810).

2. The spray arm assembly as described in claim 1, characterized in that, Viewed axially along the first axis (810), the second spray arm (200) extends beyond the coverage area of ​​the first spray arm (100).

3. The spray arm assembly as described in claim 2, characterized in that, Viewed along the axial direction of the first axis (810), both ends of the second spray arm (200) are located outside the coverage area of ​​the first spray arm (100).

4. The spray arm assembly as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The transmission mechanism (300) includes an input gear (310) and an output gear (320). The input gear (310) and the first spray arm (100) are adapted to rotate synchronously around the first axis (810). The output gear (320) is connected to the input gear (310) in a transmission manner. The output gear (320) is adapted to rotate around the second axis (820) when the input gear (310) rotates around the first axis (810), so as to drive the second spray arm (200) to oscillate back and forth around the first axis (810).

5. The spray arm assembly as described in claim 4, characterized in that, The output gear (320) is provided with an eccentric part (321) that deviates from the second axis (820), and the second spray arm (200) is provided with a sliding groove (210). The eccentric part (321) is inserted into the sliding groove (210). The output gear (320) is adapted to drive the second spray arm (200) to reciprocate around the first axis (810) through the cooperation of the eccentric part (321) and the sliding groove (210) when rotating around the second axis (820).

6. The spray arm assembly as described in claim 5, characterized in that, The groove (210) points to the first axis (810), and / or the second axis (820) is parallel to the first axis (810).

7. The spray arm assembly as claimed in claim 4, characterized in that, The spray arm assembly also includes a water inlet shaft (500), which is adapted to be rotatably connected to and communicate with the spray arm base (600); The first spray arm (100), the input gear (310) and the water inlet shaft (500) are fixedly connected and adapted to rotate synchronously around the first axis (810). The first spray arm (100) and the water inlet shaft (500) are connected, and the second spray arm (200) and the water inlet shaft (500) are connected.

8. The spray arm assembly as claimed in claim 7, characterized in that, The input gear (310) is sleeved on the water inlet shaft (500) and mutually limits each other along the circumference of the first axis (810) with the water inlet shaft (500). The first spray arm (100) is provided with a water inlet connector (110). After the water inlet connector (110) and the water inlet shaft (500) are fixedly connected, the input gear (310) is limited between the water inlet connector (110) of the first spray arm (100) and the water inlet shaft (500).

9. The spray arm assembly as claimed in claim 8, characterized in that, One of the input gear (310) and the water inlet shaft (500) is provided with a notch (311) and the other is provided with a locking protrusion (510). The locking protrusion (510) and the notch (311) are adapted to be inserted into each other along the axial direction of the first axis (810) to limit each other in the circumferential direction of the first axis (810).

10. The spray arm assembly as claimed in claim 8, characterized in that, The second spray arm (200) is sleeved on the water inlet connector (110) and is adapted to reciprocate around the water inlet connector (110). The side wall of the water inlet connector (110) is provided with a water passage hole (111). The second spray arm (200) is connected to the water inlet shaft (500) through the water passage hole (111). The input gear (310) is adapted to form a stop in the direction in which the second spray arm (200) disengages from the water inlet connector (110).

11. The spray arm assembly as claimed in claim 7, characterized in that, The spray arm assembly also includes a mounting base (400), which has a clearance hole (440). One end of the water inlet shaft (500) passes through the clearance hole (440) and is fixedly connected to the input gear (310). The input gear (310) is located above the mounting base (400).

12. The spray arm assembly as claimed in claim 11, characterized in that, The upper surface of the mounting base (400) is provided with a support column (420), and the output gear (320) is rotatably mounted on the upper surface of the mounting base (400) through the support column (420).

13. The spray arm assembly as claimed in claim 11, characterized in that, The lower end of the mounting base (400) is provided with a snap-fit ​​part (410) that engages with the spray arm seat (600). The mounting base (400) and the spray arm seat (600) are snap-fit ​​connected to limit the water inlet shaft (500) between the mounting base (400) and the spray arm seat (600).

14. The spray arm assembly as claimed in claim 13, characterized in that, The water inlet shaft (500) has a retaining ring (530) on its circumference. The outer diameter of the retaining ring (530) is larger than the diameter of the clearance hole (440). The retaining ring (530) is clamped between the mounting base (400) and the spray arm base (600).

15. The spray arm assembly as claimed in claim 13, characterized in that, The second spray arm (200) is disposed between the first spray arm (100) and the mounting base (400), and the input gear (310) and the output gear (320) are disposed between the second spray arm (200) and the mounting base (400).

16. A dishwasher, characterized in that, Includes the spray arm assembly as described in any one of claims 1 to 15.

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