Water-air distribution valve and dishwasher

Abstract

The application discloses a water-gas distribution valve and a dishwasher. The water-gas distribution valve comprises a valve shell and a valve core assembly. The valve shell is provided with a valve water inlet for connecting with washing water, a valve air inlet for connecting with drying air flow, and a plurality of distribution ports for communicating with a plurality of spray arms one by one. The valve core assembly is movably arranged in the valve shell. In a washing state, the valve core assembly controls the valve air inlet to be disconnected from the valve water inlet and all the distribution ports, and controls the valve water inlet to be switchably communicated with at least one distribution port. In a drying state, the valve core assembly controls the valve air inlet to be communicated with the valve water inlet and / or controls the valve air inlet to be switchably communicated with at least one distribution port, so that the washing system and the drying system can share the pipeline structure of the water-gas distribution valve to the spray arms, thereby reducing the pipeline structure in the dishwasher, reducing the space occupation of the pipeline structure in the dishwasher, and improving the internal space utilization of the dishwasher.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of dishwasher technology, and more specifically, to a water and air distribution valve and a dishwasher. Background Technology

[0002] A dishwasher, as a household appliance that automatically cleans dishes, works by pressurizing water and spraying it through rotating spray arms to create a high-pressure water jet that washes the surface of the dishes, working in conjunction with detergent to remove dirt. To achieve complete cleaning and drying functions, dishwashers typically have washing and drying modes.

[0003] However, in related technologies, the washing system (such as the washing pump and main water circuit) and the drying system (such as the drying fan and air duct) are usually designed as two independent modules, each with its own dedicated drive device and pipeline channel, which leads to a reduction in the utilization rate of the effective space inside the dishwasher. Utility Model Content

[0004] This application provides a water and air distribution valve and a dishwasher, which aim to improve the space utilization inside the dishwasher.

[0005] This application provides a water-air distribution valve for use in a dishwasher. The dishwasher includes multiple spray arms, and the water-air distribution valve includes a valve housing and a valve core assembly. The valve housing has a valve inlet for receiving washing water, a valve inlet for receiving drying airflow, and multiple diversion ports for corresponding communication with the multiple spray arms. The valve core assembly is movably disposed within the valve housing. In the washing state, the valve core assembly controls the valve inlet to be isolated from the valve inlet and all diversion ports, and controls the valve inlet to be switchably connected to at least one diversion port. In the drying state, the valve core assembly controls the valve inlet to be connected to the valve inlet and / or controls the valve inlet to be switchably connected to at least one diversion port.

[0006] In some embodiments, the valve core assembly moves and / or rotates within the valve housing.

[0007] In some embodiments, the valve core assembly is movably disposed within the valve housing in a direction away from or near the valve inlet; or, the valve core assembly is rotatably disposed within the valve housing; or, the valve core assembly is movably disposed within the valve housing in a direction away from or near the valve inlet, and the valve core assembly can also rotate about its own direction of movement; or, the valve core assembly is rotatably disposed within the valve housing, and the valve core assembly can move along its own rotation axis.

[0008] In some embodiments, the valve core assembly includes a water-air switching element and a fluid distribution element, wherein the water-air switching element is movably disposed within the valve housing; the fluid distribution element is movably disposed within the valve housing; wherein, in the washing state, the water-air switching element is driven to move to control the valve air inlet to be isolated from the valve water inlet and all branch ports, and the fluid distribution element is driven to move to control the valve water inlet to be switchably connected to at least one branch port; in the drying state, the water-air switching element is driven to move to control the valve air inlet to be connected to at least one branch port and / or the valve water inlet, and the fluid distribution element is driven to move to control the valve air inlet to be switchably connected to at least one branch port.

[0009] In some embodiments, the water-air switching component includes a first air-blocking component, which is movably disposed within the valve housing in a direction away from or near the valve inlet. The fluid distribution component includes a first diverting valve plate, which is movably disposed within the valve housing in a direction away from or near the valve inlet. The valve core assembly also includes a first elastic member, which abuts against the first air-blocking component and causes the first air-blocking component to tend to move toward the valve inlet.

[0010] In some embodiments, the water-air switching component includes a second air-blocking component, which is movably disposed within the valve housing in a direction away from or near the valve inlet; the fluid distribution component includes a second diverting valve plate, which is rotatably disposed within the valve housing about the moving direction of the second air-blocking component; the valve core assembly also includes a second elastic member, which abuts against the second air-blocking component and causes the second air-blocking component to tend to move toward the valve inlet.

[0011] In some embodiments, the water-gas switching component includes a water-gas distribution valve plate disposed within the valve housing and rotatably connected to the valve housing; the fluid distribution component includes a rotating diverter valve plate disposed within the valve housing and rotatably connected to the valve housing.

[0012] In some embodiments, the water-air distribution valve further includes a drive structure, which is drively connected to both the water-air switching component and the fluid distribution component.

[0013] In some embodiments, the drive structure includes a first drive member, which is tractively connected to both the water-air switching member and the fluid distribution member. In the washing state, the first drive member rotates along a first direction to drive the water-air switching member to disconnect the air inlet of the control valve from the water inlet of the valve and all branch ports, and to drive the fluid distribution member to switchably connect the water inlet of the control valve to at least one branch port. In the drying state, the first drive member rotates along the first direction to drive the water-air switching member to connect the air inlet of the control valve to at least one branch port and / or the water inlet of the valve, and to drive the fluid distribution member to switchably connect the air inlet of the control valve to at least one branch port.

[0014] In some embodiments, the drive structure includes a first drive member, which is tractively connected to both a water-air switching component and a fluid distribution component. In the washing state, the first drive member rotates in a first direction to drive the water-air switching component to disconnect the air inlet of the control valve from the water inlet of the valve and all branch ports. Then, the first drive member rotates in a second direction to drive the fluid distribution component to switchably connect the water inlet of the control valve to at least one branch port. In the drying state, the first drive member rotates in the first direction to drive the water-air switching component to connect the air inlet of the control valve to at least one branch port and / or the water inlet of the valve. Then, the first drive member rotates in the second direction to drive the fluid distribution component to switchably connect the air inlet of the control valve to at least one branch port.

[0015] In some embodiments, the drive structure includes a second drive member and a third drive member, wherein the second drive member is drivenly connected to the water-air switching member, and the third drive member is drivenly connected to the fluid distribution member.

[0016] In some embodiments, the water-air switching component includes a water-air distribution valve plate, which is disposed within and rotatably connected to the valve housing; the fluid distribution component includes a rotating diverter valve plate, which is disposed within and rotatably connected to the valve housing; the water-air distribution valve further includes a one-way transmission mechanism, which is operatively connected to both the water-air distribution valve plate and the rotating diverter valve plate, and is also operatively connected to the drive structure; wherein, in the washing state, the drive structure drives the water-air distribution valve plate to rotate in a first direction via the one-way transmission mechanism, thereby controlling the separation between the valve air inlet and the valve water inlet and all diverter ports. In the drying state, the drive structure drives the rotating diversion valve plate to rotate in the second direction through the one-way transmission mechanism, so as to control the valve inlet to be switched to be connected with at least one diversion port when the water-air distribution valve plate stops rotating; in the drying state, the drive structure drives the water-air distribution valve plate to rotate in the first direction through the one-way transmission mechanism, so as to control the valve air inlet to be connected with at least one diversion port and / or the valve water inlet, and then the drive structure drives the rotating diversion valve plate to rotate in the second direction through the one-way transmission mechanism, so as to control the valve air inlet to be switched to be connected with at least one diversion port when the water-air distribution valve plate stops rotating.

[0017] In some embodiments, the water-air switching component includes a water-air distribution valve plate, which is disposed within a valve housing and rotatably connected to the valve housing; the fluid distribution component includes a rotating diverter valve plate, which is disposed within a valve housing and rotatably connected to the valve housing; the water-air distribution valve further includes a one-way transmission mechanism, which includes a first one-way transmission member tractably connected to the water-air distribution valve plate and a second one-way transmission member tractably connected to the rotating diverter valve plate, both of which are tractively connected to the drive structure; wherein, in the washing state, the drive structure drives the water-air distribution valve plate through the first one-way transmission member. The valve rotates to isolate the air inlet from the water inlet and all branch ports. Then, the drive structure drives the rotating branch valve plate to rotate via the second one-way transmission component, so that the water inlet can be switched to connect with at least one branch port when the water distribution valve plate stops rotating. In the drying state, the drive structure drives the water distribution valve plate to rotate via the first one-way transmission component, so that the air inlet of the valve can be switched to connect with at least one branch port and / or the water inlet of the valve. Then, the drive structure drives the rotating branch valve plate to rotate via the second one-way transmission component, so that the air inlet of the valve can be switched to connect with at least one branch port when the water distribution valve plate stops rotating.

[0018] This application also provides a dishwasher, including a water-air distribution valve, an inner tub, a water cup, a circulation pump, multiple spray arms, and a drying system; the inner tub has a washing chamber for accommodating tableware; the water cup is located below the inner tub and communicates with the washing chamber; the inlet of the circulation pump is connected to the water cup, and the outlet is connected to the valve inlet; multiple spray arms are located inside the washing chamber and are connected to multiple diversion ports one by one; the drying system is connected to the valve air inlet and is used to deliver drying airflow to the water-air distribution valve.

[0019] In some embodiments, the drying system includes a duct shell, a fan, and a heating device. The duct shell has a duct, which has an air inlet and an air outlet. The air outlet is connected to a valve inlet. The fan is disposed inside the duct and is used to drive the air inside the duct to move from the air inlet to the air outlet. The heating device is at least partially disposed inside the duct and is used to heat the air flowing through the heating device.

[0020] In some embodiments, the air inlet of the duct is connected to the outside air; or, the inner liner has a circulation vent, and the air inlet of the duct is connected to the circulation vent.

[0021] In some embodiments, the heating device includes a heat pump system, an electric heating element, or a semiconductor heating element.

[0022] Based on the water and air distribution valve of this application, by setting a water and air distribution valve in the dishwasher, and making the multiple diversion ports of the water and air distribution valve connected to the multiple spray arms one by one, the water inlet of the valve connected to the water outlet of the circulation pump, and the air inlet of the valve connected to the drying system, the washing system and the drying system can share the pipeline structure from the water and air distribution valve to the spray arms, thereby reducing the pipeline structure in the dishwasher, reducing the space occupied by the pipeline structure in the dishwasher, improving the internal space utilization of the dishwasher, making the inner drum larger, thus accommodating more tableware, improving the cleaning efficiency of tableware, and improving the user experience.

[0023] Furthermore, since the washing and drying systems can share the piping structure from the water and air distribution valve to the spray arm, the dishwasher can dry the washing water channel during the drying process, which reduces the probability of bacteria growing in the washing water channel and provides reliable protection for the user's health.

[0024] Furthermore, compared to the separate setup of the washing and drying systems, which requires separate control of two systems to switch the dishwasher between washing and drying states, this application enables the dishwasher to switch between washing and drying states simply by controlling the water and air distribution valve, thus simplifying the operation and improving control efficiency. Attached Figure Description

[0025] 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 drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0026] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the frame structure of a dishwasher in one embodiment of this application; Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the water cup and the water vapor distribution valve in one embodiment of this application; Figure 3 for Figure 2 A schematic diagram of the exploded structure shown; Figure 4 for Figure 2 A cross-sectional view of the first air-blocking component in the structure shown at the air-blocking location; Figure 5 for Figure 2 A cross-sectional view of the first air-blocking component in the structure shown at the venting position; Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the water cup and the water vapor distribution valve in another embodiment of this application; Figure 7 for Figure 6 A cross-sectional schematic diagram of the structure shown; Figure 8 for Figure 6 A schematic diagram of the exploded structure shown; Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the water cup and water vapor distribution valve in another embodiment of this application; Figure 10 for Figure 9 A schematic diagram of the exploded structure shown; Figure 11 This is an exploded structural diagram of the transmission seat and the second sealing head in one embodiment of this application; Figure 12 for Figure 9 A cross-sectional view of the second air-blocking component in the structure shown, when it is in the air-blocking position. Figure 13 for Figure 9 A cross-sectional view of the second air-blocking component in the structure shown in the venting position. Figure 14 This is a schematic diagram of the frame structure of a dishwasher in another embodiment of this application; Figure 15 This is a schematic diagram of the frame structure of a dishwasher in another embodiment of this application.

[0027] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached drawings: 100, dishwasher; 10, water and gas distribution valve; 11, valve housing; 111a, valve cavity; 11a, diversion port; 112a, valve water inlet; 113a, valve air inlet; 114, support part; 115, guide post; 1111, snap-fit; 12, valve core assembly; 121, first diversion valve plate; 121a, first flow port group; 121a1, first flow port; 121b, first valve plate cavity; 122, first air-blocking component; 1221, plug; 1222, connecting rod; 123, first elastic component; 12 4. Second air-blocking component; 1241. Sealing head; 1242. Guide rod; 1242a. Guide groove; 125. Second diversion valve plate; 125a. Second flow port assembly; 125a1. Second flow port; 125b. Keyway; 125c. Second valve plate cavity; 1251. Cylindrical side plate; 1251a. Circumvention notch; 1252. End plate; 126. Second elastic component; 127. Sliding part; 13. Water-air switching component; 131. Water-air distribution valve plate; 131a. Third flow port; 132. Fixed valve plate; 132a. Water inlet. ; 132b, Air inlet; 14, Fluid distribution component; 141, Rotating diversion valve; 141a, Fourth flow port; 16, Valve sealing ring; 20A, Drive structure; 31, Hook part; 32, Overlap part; 30, Motion conversion mechanism; 34, Screw drive mechanism; 341, Screw; 342, Transmission seat; 3421, Transmission rod; 3422, Support platform; 3423, Guide part; 343, Transmission key; 22a, Annular groove; 344, Stop part; 33, One-way transmission mechanism; 40A, Drying system; 40, Fan; 5 0. Heating device; 60. Duct housing; 60a. Duct; 60b. Duct air inlet; 60c. Duct air outlet; 61. Air inlet section; 62. Air outlet section; 63. Hanging section; 71. Inner liner; 71a. Washing chamber; 71b. Overflow outlet; 71c. Circulating air outlet; 71d. Ventilation outlet; 72. Water cup; 73. Circulating pump; 74. Spray arm; 741. Upper spray arm; 742. Middle spray arm; 743. Lower spray arm; 75. Drain pipe; 751. Drain pump; 752. Drain valve; 76. Water inlet pipe; 761. Water inlet valve; 90. Dish basket. Detailed Implementation

[0028] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of this application clearer, the following detailed description is provided in conjunction with the accompanying drawings and embodiments. It should be understood that the specific embodiments described herein are merely illustrative and not intended to limit the scope of this application.

[0029] Please refer to Figure 1 This application provides a dishwasher 100, which typically includes a base, a housing, a door, an inner liner 71, a water cup 72, a dish rack 90, multiple spray arms 74, a circulation pump 73, and a drying system 40A.

[0030] The base is the supporting structure of the dishwasher 100, and is usually made of metal, which has good load-bearing capacity and stability.

[0031] The outer shell, attached to the base, is the external protective layer of the dishwasher 100 and can be made of stainless steel or cold-rolled sheet steel.

[0032] The door is movably connected to the outer shell, for example, by flipping it open and close. The door is the closed structure of the dishwasher 100, and its perimeter can be connected with a sealing strip to prevent moisture leakage. Users can place the dishes to be washed into the dishwasher 100 by opening the door. An observation window can be provided on the door so that users can observe the operation of the dishwasher 100 inside when it is closed.

[0033] The inner liner 71 is disposed inside the outer shell and has a washing chamber 71a for accommodating dishes. The inner liner 71 may be made of stainless steel sheet, which has good corrosion resistance and durability.

[0034] The dish rack 90 is located within the washing chamber 71a and is used to hold dishes to be washed. When the user needs to use the dishwasher 100 to wash dishes, they open the door to place the dishes into the dish rack 90, then close the door to seal the washing chamber 71a. After the washing cycle is complete, the user can reopen the door to retrieve the dishes from the dish rack 90.

[0035] To facilitate the user's loading and unloading of tableware, the dish rack 90 is movable relative to the inner tub 71. For example, the dish rack 90 is pull-out within the washing chamber 71a, allowing the user to pull it outwards to place the tableware to be washed, and then push it back into the washing chamber 71a after placement. Similarly, when retrieving tableware, the user first pulls the dish rack 90 outwards to retrieve it, and then pushes it back into the washing chamber 71a after use, thus providing the user with ample space for loading and unloading and improving convenience. It is understood that, to improve the washing efficiency of the dishwasher 100, multiple dish racks 90 may be spaced apart along the height direction within the washing chamber 71a, and each dish rack 90 can move independently relative to the inner tub 71.

[0036] Multiple spray arms 74 are disposed within the washing chamber 71a. Each spray arm 74 has multiple nozzles, through which washing water is sprayed and comes into contact with the surface of the tableware. The flow of the washing water removes dirt from the surface of the tableware, thus cleaning the tableware. It is understood that the washing water may include water, detergent, or a mixture of water and detergent. The nozzles of two adjacent spray arms 74 may face the same or different directions; in this embodiment, no specific limitation is placed on the direction of the nozzles of two adjacent spray arms 74.

[0037] The water cup 72 is located inside the outer shell, below the inner liner 71, and communicates with the washing chamber 71a. The water cup 72 is used to collect washing water and dirt from the surface of the tableware. It is understood that a filter device may also be installed inside the water cup 72 to filter out impurities in the washing water.

[0038] A circulation pump 73 is located between the outer casing and the water cup 72. The inlet of the circulation pump 73 is connected to the water cup 72, and the outlet of the circulation pump 73 is connected to the spray arm 74. It is used to draw the washing water in the water cup 72 after it has been filtered by the filter device, and pump the washing water to the spray arm 74 to realize the recycling of washing water, thereby saving water and reducing the waste of water resources.

[0039] The drying system 40A is located between the outer shell and the inner liner 71 and can deliver drying airflow into the washing chamber 71a to dry the dishes after washing, thereby preventing bacteria from growing on the surface of the damp dishes and providing reliable protection for the user's health.

[0040] In the relevant technical field, in order to prevent the washing system and drying system 40A, which consist of at least a water cup 72, a circulation pump 73 and a spray arm 74, from interfering with each other, the washing system and drying system 40A are usually designed as two independent modules in the dishwasher 100, each with its own dedicated drive structure and piping structure. This results in a complex piping structure, which occupies a large space inside the dishwasher 100, leading to a low utilization rate of the internal space of the dishwasher 100.

[0041] Based on the above, please refer to Figure 1-3 In this embodiment, the dishwasher 100 further includes a water and air distribution valve 10, which includes a valve housing 11 and a valve core assembly 12. The valve housing 11 has a valve inlet 112a for receiving washing water, a valve air inlet 113a for receiving drying airflow, and a plurality of diverter ports 11a for corresponding communication with a plurality of spray arms 74. That is, the valve inlet 112a is connected to the outlet of the circulation pump 73, and the valve air inlet 113a is connected to the drying system 40A. The valve core assembly 12 is movably disposed within the valve housing 11.

[0042] Please refer to Figure 1-3 Specifically, the valve housing 11 has a valve cavity 111a, and the valve inlet 112a, the valve air inlet 113a and the diversion port 11a are all connected to the valve cavity 111a. The valve core assembly 12 is movably disposed in the valve cavity 111a.

[0043] During the washing cycle, the valve core assembly 12 controls the valve air inlet 113a to be isolated from the valve water inlet 112a and all the branch ports 11a, preventing washing water from entering the drying system 40A through the valve air inlet 113a. This reduces the probability of damage to the drying system 40A, thus extending its service life and consequently extending the service life of the dishwasher 100. The valve core assembly 12 also controls the valve water inlet 112a to be switchably connected to at least one branch port 11a. At this time, the circulation pump 73 operates to draw washing water from the water cup 72 and pump it through the valve water inlet 112a to the water-air distribution valve 10. The water is then delivered to the corresponding spray arm 74 through the connected branch port 11a, where it is sprayed from the nozzle of the spray arm 74 to clean the dishes.

[0044] It is understood that the process by which the valve core assembly 12 controls the valve inlet 112a to be switched to connect with at least one branch port 11a can be controlled by a preset program. For example, it can first control each branch port 11a to connect individually to the valve inlet 112a, then control multiple branch ports 11a to connect to the valve inlet 112a, and repeat this cycle multiple times. In other embodiments, the process by which the valve inlet 112a can be switched to connect with at least one branch port 11a may also include other forms. In the embodiments of this application, no specific limitation is made on the process by which the valve inlet 112a can be switched to connect with at least one branch port 11a.

[0045] In the drying state, the valve core assembly 12 controls the valve inlet 113a to be switched to connect with at least one diversion port 11a. At this time, the drying system 40A works to deliver drying airflow into the water-air distribution valve 10 through the valve inlet 113a, and then delivers it to the corresponding spray arm 74 through the connected diversion port 11a. The drying airflow is sprayed out from the nozzle of the spray arm 74 to dry the surface of the tableware and the washing water channel, thereby reducing the humidity of the tableware surface and the washing water channel, thus reducing the probability of bacteria growing on the tableware surface and in the washing water channel. It can also dry the inner surface of the washing chamber 71a, thereby reducing the probability of bacteria growing on the inner surface of the washing chamber 71a, thus providing reliable protection for the user's health.

[0046] It is understood that the process by which the valve core assembly 12 controls the valve inlet 113a to switchably connect with at least one branch port 11a can also be controlled by a preset program. For example, it can first control each branch port 11a to connect individually with the valve inlet 113a, then control multiple branch ports 11a to connect with the valve inlet 113a, and repeat this cycle multiple times. In other embodiments, the process by which the valve inlet 113a can switchably connect with at least one branch port 11a may also include other forms. In the embodiments of this application, no specific limitations are placed on the process by which the valve inlet 113a can switchably connect with at least one branch port 11a.

[0047] Understandably, the valve core assembly 12 also controls the connection between the valve air inlet 113a and the valve water inlet 112a, so that water can enter the water cup 72 to dry the water cup 72, thereby reducing the probability of bacteria growing in the water cup 72 and providing reliable protection for the user's health.

[0048] It is understood that, in some embodiments, during the drying state, the valve core assembly 12 can also control the valve air inlet 113a to connect with the valve water inlet 112a and at least one diverter port 11a, thereby enabling the drying system 40A to simultaneously provide drying airflow to the water cup 72 and the spray arm 74. This allows for a more uniform heat distribution within the washing chamber 71a and enables the simultaneous drying of the water cup 72, the spray arm 74, and the surface of the tableware, improving drying efficiency. In this case, the drying airflow can be rationally allocated according to usage requirements. No specific limitations are imposed here.

[0049] For example, the flow divider 11a of the valve housing 11 may include an upper flow divider, a middle flow divider, and a lower flow divider. The multiple spray arms 74 may include an upper spray arm 741, a middle spray arm 742, and a lower spray arm 743. The upper spray arm 741 communicates with the upper flow divider, the middle spray arm 742 communicates with the middle flow divider, and the lower spray arm 743 communicates with the lower flow divider. In other embodiments, the number of flow dividers 11a and the number of spray arms 74 can both be two, and of course, more. In this embodiment, no specific limitation is placed on the number of flow dividers 11a or the number of spray arms 74.

[0050] Please refer to Figure 1-3 In this embodiment, the valve housing 11 can be made of high-strength, corrosion-resistant engineering plastic. Since the inlet and outlet of the fluid distribution are integrated on the valve housing 11, the connection of external pipelines can be simplified and the potential leakage risk can be reduced.

[0051] Please refer to Figure 1-3 In this embodiment, by providing a water and air distribution valve 10 inside the dishwasher 100, and ensuring that multiple branch ports 11a of the water and air distribution valve 10 are connected to multiple spray arms 74 in a one-to-one correspondence, the valve inlet 112a is connected to the water outlet of the circulation pump 73, and the valve air inlet 113a is connected to the drying system 40A, the washing system and the drying system 40A can share the piping structure from the water and air distribution valve 10 to the spray arms 74. This reduces the piping structure inside the dishwasher 100, thereby reducing the space occupied by the piping structure inside the dishwasher 100, allowing the inner drum 71 to be larger, thus accommodating more tableware, improving the cleaning efficiency of tableware, and enhancing the user experience.

[0052] Furthermore, since the washing system and the drying system 40A can share the piping structure from the water and air distribution valve 10 to the spray arm 74, the dishwasher 100 can dry the washing water channel in the drying state, which can reduce the probability of bacteria growing in the washing water channel and provide reliable protection for the user's health.

[0053] Furthermore, compared to the washing system and drying system 40A being set up independently, requiring separate control of two systems to switch the dishwasher 100 between washing and drying states, this application can switch the dishwasher 100 between washing and drying states simply by controlling the water and air distribution valve 10, which simplifies the operation steps and improves control efficiency.

[0054] Please refer to Figure 1-3 In one embodiment, the valve core assembly 12 moves and / or rotates within the valve housing 11.

[0055] Please refer to Figure 1-3 In one embodiment, the valve core assembly 12 moves within the valve housing 11 so that, in the washing state, the valve core assembly 12 can control the valve air inlet 113a to be isolated from the valve water inlet 112a and all the branch ports 11a by moving, thereby preventing washing water from entering the drying system 40A through the valve air inlet 113a, reducing the probability of damage to the drying system 40A, and thus enabling the drying system 40A to have a longer service life, thereby enabling the dishwasher 100 to have a longer service life. It can also control the valve water inlet 112a to be switchably connected to at least one branch port 11a by moving, so that the circulation pump 73 can deliver washing water to the corresponding spray arm 74 and spray it out from the nozzle to clean the dishes. In the drying state, the valve core assembly 12 can control the valve air inlet 113a to be isolated from the valve water inlet 112a by moving. The system can connect to the water cup 72, allowing the drying airflow from the drying system 40A to enter the water cup 72 and dry it, reducing the probability of bacterial growth within the water cup 72 and providing reliable protection for the user's health. Alternatively, the valve core assembly 12 can be moved to control the valve inlet 113a to be switchably connected to at least one branch port 11a, allowing the drying system 40A to deliver the drying airflow to the corresponding spray arm 74 and spray it out through the nozzle of the spray arm 74 to dry the surface of the tableware and the washing water channel, reducing the humidity of the tableware surface and the washing water channel, thereby reducing the probability of bacterial growth on the tableware surface and in the washing water channel. It can also dry the inner surface of the washing chamber 71a, further reducing the probability of bacterial growth on the inner surface of the washing chamber 71a, thus providing reliable protection for the user's health.

[0056] Please refer to Figure 1-5In one specific embodiment, the valve core assembly 12 is movably disposed within the valve housing 11 in a direction away from or near the valve air inlet 113a. In the washing state, the valve core assembly 12 moves to control the valve air inlet 113a to be isolated from the valve water inlet 112a and all the branch ports 11a, and controls the valve water inlet 112a to be switchably connected to at least one branch port 11a; in the drying state, the valve core assembly 12 moves to control the valve air inlet 113a to be connected to the valve water inlet 112a and / or controls the valve air inlet 113a to be switchably connected to at least one branch port 11a.

[0057] It is understood that the movement of the valve core assembly 12 can be driven by a linear motor, an electric actuator, or other mechanical combination structure. No specific limitations are imposed on this in the embodiments of this application.

[0058] Please refer to Figure 1 as well as Figure 6-8 In one embodiment, the valve core assembly 12 can also rotate within the valve housing 11, so that in the washing state, the valve core assembly 12 can rotate to control the valve air inlet 113a to be isolated from the valve water inlet 112a and all the branch ports 11a, preventing washing water from entering the drying system 40A through the valve air inlet 113a, reducing the probability of damage to the drying system 40A, thereby giving the drying system 40A a longer service life, and thus giving the dishwasher 100 a longer service life. It can also rotate to control the valve water inlet 112a to be switchably connected to at least one branch port 11a, so that the circulation pump 73 can deliver washing water to the corresponding spray arm 74 and spray it out from the nozzle to clean the dishes. In the drying state, the valve core assembly 12 can rotate to control the valve air inlet 113a to be switchably connected to the valve water inlet 112a and all the branch ports 11a. The water inlet 112a is connected so that the drying airflow delivered by the drying system 40A can enter the water cup 72 to dry the water cup 72, thereby reducing the probability of bacterial growth in the water cup 72 and providing reliable protection for the user's health. Alternatively, the air inlet 113a can be switched to be connected to at least one branch inlet 11a by rotation, so that the drying system 40A can deliver the drying airflow to the corresponding spray arm 74 and spray it out through the nozzle of the spray arm 74 to dry the surface of the tableware and the washing water channel, thereby reducing the humidity of the tableware surface and the washing water channel, thereby reducing the probability of bacterial growth on the tableware surface and in the washing water channel, and also drying the inner surface of the washing chamber 71a, thereby reducing the probability of bacterial growth on the inner surface of the washing chamber 71a, and thus providing reliable protection for the user's health.

[0059] Of course, the valve core assembly 12 can also be rotated to control the valve air inlet 113a to connect with the valve water inlet 112a and at least one diverter port 11a, thereby enabling the drying system 40A to simultaneously provide drying airflow to the water cup 72 and the spray arm 74.

[0060] Please refer to Figure 1 as well as Figure 6-8 In one specific embodiment, the valve core assembly 12 is rotatably disposed within the valve housing 11; in the washing state, the valve core assembly 12 rotates to control the valve air inlet 113a to be isolated from the valve water inlet 112a and all the branch ports 11a, and controls the valve water inlet 112a to be switchably connected to at least one branch port 11a; in the drying state, the valve core assembly 12 rotates to control the valve air inlet 113a to be connected to the valve water inlet 112a and / or controls the valve air inlet 113a to be switchably connected to at least one branch port 11a.

[0061] It is understood that the rotation of the valve core assembly 12 can be driven by a motor, a rotary cylinder, or other mechanical combination structure. No specific limitations are imposed on this in the embodiments of this application.

[0062] Please refer to Figure 1 as well as Figure 9-13 It is understandable that the valve core assembly 12 can also move and rotate within the valve housing 11.

[0063] Please refer to Figure 1 as well as Figure 9-13 In one specific embodiment, the valve core assembly 12 is movably disposed within the valve housing 11 in a direction away from or near the valve inlet 113a, and the valve core assembly 12 can also rotate about its own direction of movement. In the washing state, the valve core assembly 12 moves to close the valve inlet 113a to prevent washing water from entering the drying system 40A via the valve inlet 113a, and rotates to switchably connect the valve inlet 112a with at least one branch port 11a, so that the circulating pump 73 can deliver washing water to the corresponding spray arm 74 and spray it out from the nozzle. The system is used to clean tableware. In the drying state, the valve core assembly 12 moves to open the valve air inlet 113a and rotates to connect the valve air inlet 113a with the valve water inlet 112a, so that the drying airflow delivered by the drying system 40A can enter the water cup 72 to dry the water cup 72; or the control valve air inlet 113a can be switched to connect with at least one diverter port 11a, so that the drying system 40A can deliver the drying airflow to the corresponding spray arm 74 and spray it out through the nozzle of the spray arm 74 to dry the surface of the tableware and the washing water channel.

[0064] Of course, the valve core assembly 12 can also be rotated to control the valve air inlet 113a to connect with the valve water inlet 112a and at least one diverter port 11a, thereby enabling the drying system 40A to simultaneously provide drying airflow to the water cup 72 and the spray arm 74.

[0065] Understandably, the valve core assembly 12 is rotatably disposed within the valve housing 11, and the valve core assembly 12 can move along its own rotational axis. In the washing state, the valve core assembly 12 rotates to control the valve air inlet 113a to be isolated from the valve water inlet 112a and all the branch ports 11a, so as to prevent washing water from entering the drying system 40A through the valve air inlet 113a, and moves to control the valve water inlet 112a to be switched to be connected with at least one branch port 11a, so that the circulation pump 73 can deliver washing water to the corresponding spray arm 74 and spray it out from the nozzle to clean the tableware. In the drying state, the valve core assembly 12 rotates to control the valve air inlet 113a to be connected with at least one branch port 11a or the valve water inlet 112a, and moves to control the valve air inlet 113a to be switched to be connected with at least one branch port 11a.

[0066] The valve core assembly 12 can be rotated to control the connection between the valve air inlet 113a and the valve water inlet 112a, so that the drying airflow delivered by the drying system 40A can enter the water cup 72 to dry the water cup 72, thereby reducing the probability of bacteria growing in the water cup 72 and providing reliable protection for the user's health.

[0067] The valve core assembly 12 can also be rotated to control the valve inlet 113a to communicate with at least one branch port 11a, and moved to control the valve inlet 113a to be switchably connected with at least one branch port 11a, so that the drying system 40A can deliver the drying airflow to the corresponding spray arm 74 and spray it out through the nozzle of the spray arm 74 to dry the surface of the tableware and the washing water channel, thereby reducing the humidity of the tableware surface and the washing water channel, thereby reducing the probability of bacteria growing on the tableware surface and in the washing water channel, and also drying the inner surface of the washing chamber 71a, thereby reducing the probability of bacteria growing on the inner surface of the washing chamber 71a, thus providing reliable protection for the user's health.

[0068] Of course, the valve core assembly 12 can also be rotated to control the valve air inlet 113a to connect with the valve water inlet 112a and at least one diverter port 11a, thereby enabling the drying system 40A to simultaneously provide drying airflow to the water cup 72 and the spray arm 74.

[0069] It is understood that the valve core assembly 12 may have other forms of movement. In the embodiments of this application, no specific limitation is made on the movement of the valve core assembly 12 in the valve housing 11.

[0070] Please refer to Figure 1-3 In one embodiment, the valve core assembly 12 includes a water-gas switching element 13 and a fluid distribution element 14, wherein the water-gas switching element 13 is movably disposed within the valve housing 11; and the fluid distribution element 14 is movably disposed within the valve housing 11.

[0071] In the washing state, the water-air switching component 13 is activated to control the valve air inlet 113a to be isolated from the valve water inlet 112a and all the branch ports 11a, so as to prevent washing water from entering the drying system 40A through the valve air inlet 113a. The fluid distribution component 14 is activated to control the valve water inlet 112a to be switchably connected to at least one branch port 11a, so that the circulation pump 73 can deliver washing water to the corresponding spray arm 74 and spray it out from the nozzle to clean the tableware.

[0072] In the drying state, the water-air switching component 13 is activated to control the air inlet 113a of the control valve to connect with at least one diversion port 11a, and the fluid distribution component 14 is activated to control the air inlet 113a of the control valve to switchably connect with at least one diversion port 11a, so that the drying system 40A can deliver the drying airflow to the corresponding spray arm 74 and spray it out through the nozzle of the spray arm 74 to dry the surface of the tableware and the washing water channel, thereby reducing the humidity of the tableware surface and the washing water channel, thereby reducing the probability of bacteria growing on the tableware surface and in the washing water channel, and also drying the inner surface of the washing chamber 71a, thereby reducing the probability of bacteria growing on the inner surface of the washing chamber 71a, thus providing reliable protection for the user's health.

[0073] The water-air switching component 13 is activated to control the connection between the air inlet 113a and the water inlet 112a of the valve, so that the drying airflow delivered by the drying system 40A can enter the water cup 72 to dry the water cup 72, thereby reducing the probability of bacteria growing in the water cup 72 and providing reliable protection for the user's health.

[0074] Of course, the valve core assembly 12 can also be rotated to control the valve air inlet 113a to connect with the valve water inlet 112a and at least one diverter port 11a, thereby enabling the drying system 40A to simultaneously provide drying airflow to the water cup 72 and the spray arm 74.

[0075] It is understood that the water-air switching element 13 and the fluid distribution element 14 are movably disposed within the valve housing 11 in at least one of the following ways: moving and rotating.

[0076] Please refer to Figure 1-5In one specific embodiment, the water-air switching component 13 includes a first air-blocking component 122, which is movably disposed within the valve housing 11 in a direction away from or near the valve inlet 113a. The fluid distribution component 14 includes a first diverting valve plate 121, which is movably disposed within the valve housing 11 in a direction away from or near the valve inlet 113a. The valve core assembly 12 also includes a first elastic component 123, which abuts against the first air-blocking component 122 and causes the first air-blocking component 122 to have a tendency to move toward the valve inlet 113a. In the washing state, the first air-blocking component 122 is moved to close the air inlet 113a of the control valve, and the first diversion valve plate 121 is moved to switchably connect the water inlet 112a of the valve with at least one diversion port 11a; in the drying state, the first air-blocking component 122 is moved to open the air inlet 113a of the control valve, and the first diversion valve plate 121 is moved to connect the air inlet 113a of the control valve with the water inlet 112a and / or make the air inlet 113a of the control valve switchably connect with at least one diversion port 11a.

[0077] In the washing state, the first air-blocking component 122 moves to close the control valve air inlet 113a (e.g., Figure 4 That is, the first air-blocking component 122 can move toward the valve air inlet 113a until it blocks the valve air inlet 113a, so as to prevent washing water from entering the drying system 40A through the valve air inlet 113a. The first diversion valve plate 121 moves to control the valve water inlet 112a to be switched to be connected with at least one diversion port 11a, so that the washing water flows to the corresponding spray arm 74 and is sprayed out from the nozzle of the spray arm 74 to clean the tableware.

[0078] In the drying state, the first air-blocking component 122 opens by controlling the opening of the air inlet 113a of the control valve (e.g. Figure 5 That is, the first air-blocking component 122 can move away from the valve air inlet 113a until it is spaced apart from the valve air inlet 113a. Correspondingly, the first diversion valve plate 121 moves to control the valve air inlet 113a to connect with the valve water inlet 112a and / or control the valve air inlet 113a to switchably connect with at least one diversion port 11a. That is, the first diversion valve plate 121 can achieve three working modes by moving to meet different drying requirements.

[0079] Specifically, the air inlet 113a can be connected only to the water inlet 112a, so that all the drying airflow flows to the water inlet 112a and enters the water cup 72, and then enters the washing chamber 71a. This can dry the water path connected to the water inlet 112a, remove residual moisture in the water cup 72, reduce the probability of bacterial growth and odor caused by the humid environment in the water cup 72, and improve the hygiene level of the dishwasher 100.

[0080] The valve inlet 113a can also be connected to at least one branch port 11a, so that the drying airflow is sprayed into the washing chamber 71a through the corresponding spray arm 74. By selectively controlling the connection with different branch ports 11a, the temperature in the washing chamber 71a can be evenly distributed, thereby improving the drying efficiency.

[0081] The valve air inlet 113a can be connected to both the valve water inlet 112a and at least one branch inlet 11a. This splits the drying airflow into two paths, allowing for parallel processing of both the internal drying of the water cup 72 and the external drying of the tableware, maximizing drying efficiency. While ensuring the hygiene of the water system, the tableware is dried simultaneously, making the entire drying process faster and more comprehensive, achieving better drying results and hygiene standards.

[0082] Please refer to Figure 1-5 It is understandable that the force that tends to restore the deformation after the first elastic element 123 deforms can drive the first air-blocking element 122 to remain in the air-blocking position, reliably sealing the valve inlet 113a and keeping it in the air-blocking position.

[0083] From an energy consumption perspective, the positioning function of the first elastic element 123 does not require the consumption of external energy sources such as electricity or air pressure; it can be achieved solely through its own characteristics, thus avoiding the energy consumption generated by the long-term operation of the drive mechanism. Simultaneously, the first elastic element 123 has a simple structure and a low failure rate, resulting in lower maintenance frequency and replacement costs compared to complex drive mechanisms. Furthermore, the abutting fit of the first elastic element 123 can buffer the impact of the contact between the first air-blocking element 122 and the valve inlet 113a, reducing wear caused by rigid collisions (such as scratches on the sealing surface or deformation of components), and extending the service life of the sealing structure between the first air-blocking element 122 and the valve inlet 113a.

[0084] Please refer to Figure 3-5 In some embodiments, the water-air distribution valve 10 further includes a hook portion 31 and an overlap portion 32. The hook portion 31 is disposed on one of the first diversion valve plate 121 and the first air-blocking member 122, and the overlap portion 32 is disposed on the other of the first diversion valve plate 121 and the first air-blocking member 122. That is, the hook portion 31 and the overlap portion 32 are respectively disposed on the first diversion valve plate 121 as the active member and the first air-blocking member 122 as the driven member, providing a basis for the interaction between the two.

[0085] Among them, in the washing state (e.g.) Figure 4The hook portion 31 and the overlapping portion 32 are spaced apart so that the first elastic element 123 can drive the first air-blocking element 122 to remain in the air-blocking position. The hook portion 31 and the overlapping portion 32 do not contact each other, and there is no force transmission between them. Therefore, the first air-blocking element 122 is not constrained by the first diverting valve plate 121 and can be stably held in the air-blocking position at the air inlet 113a of the sealing valve under the action of the first elastic element 123. In the drying state (e.g....) Figure 5 The overlapping part 32 drives the first air-blocking component 122 to move from the air-blocking position to the air-ventilating position. In other words, the movement of the first diversion valve plate 121 can drive the hook part 31 (or overlapping part 32) connected to it to move synchronously. When the hook part 31 and the overlapping part 32 come into contact and form a cooperation, the driving force of the first diversion valve plate 121 is transmitted to the first air-blocking component 122 through the two, overcoming the elastic force of the first elastic member 123, and driving the first air-blocking component 122 to move from the air-blocking position to the air-ventilating position, opening up the hot air circulation path and meeting the drying requirements.

[0086] Please refer to Figure 3-5 Specifically, the hook portion 31 can be a cantilever beam or L-shaped stop extending outward from the side wall of the first diverter valve plate 121, and has a driving plane perpendicular to the direction of movement. The overlapping portion 32 can be a flange extending outward from the first air-blocking member 122, and has an abutment plane parallel to the abutment plane of the hook portion 31. When the first diverter valve plate 121 moves to the preset position, the driving plane of the hook portion 31 will make face contact with the abutment plane of the overlapping portion 32. Through the pushing of the driving plane and the abutment plane, the force is directly transmitted to the overlapping portion 32, thereby driving the first air-blocking member 122 to overcome the elastic force of the first elastic member 123 and move synchronously to the venting position.

[0087] Please refer to Figure 3-5 In some embodiments, a hook portion 31 is provided on the first diversion valve plate 121. The hook portion 31, as the active force-applying end, is directly integrated into the first diversion valve plate 121. The hook portion 31 can be integrated with the first diversion valve plate 121, reducing the assembly steps of the hook portion 31. The hook portion 31 moves with the movement of the first diversion valve plate 121. A portion of the first air-blocking component 122 is provided with an overlapping portion 32. That is to say, there is no need to design an additional independent overlapping component (such as a separate protrusion or connecting plate), nor is it necessary to open an additional mounting groove or hole on the first air-blocking component 122 to assemble the overlapping portion 32, reducing the number of parts and assembly steps. The hook portion 31 moves between the valve inlet 113a and the overlapping portion 32. The hook portion 31 only needs to move a preset distance in the direction of the overlapping portion 32 to complete the engagement.

[0088] Please refer to Figure 1-5Specifically, the first diversion valve plate 121 has a first valve plate cavity 121b extending through both sides along the moving direction. The hook portion 31 is disposed on the cavity wall of the first valve plate cavity 121b. The cavity wall of the first valve plate cavity 121b provides stable support for the hook portion 31, ensuring that the hook portion 31 is not easily deformed during power transmission and improving transmission reliability. The first air-blocking component 122 has a portion of the overlapping portion 32 extending into the first valve plate cavity 121b. Whether in the washing or drying state, the projections of the first air-blocking component 122 and the first diversion valve plate 121 in the direction perpendicular to the moving direction of the first diversion valve plate 121 have overlapping portions. The linkage area of ​​the hook portion 31 and the overlapping portion 32 is integrated into the interior of the first valve plate cavity 121b. There is no need to set a fitting gap between the hook portion 31 and the overlapping portion 32 outside the first valve plate cavity 121b, which compresses the axial length of the valve core assembly 12 and makes the overall structure of the water-air distribution valve 10 more compact.

[0089] Please refer to Figure 1-5 In some embodiments, during the washing state, the maximum distance between the hook portion 31 and the overlapping portion 32 can be defined as the maximum distance between the hook portion 31 and the overlapping portion 32 when the first air-blocking member 122 is sealed at the air-blocking position of the valve inlet 113a, and the first diverting valve plate 121 moves to its limit position closest to the valve inlet 113a in its stroke. This maximum distance is greater than the maximum distance the first diverting valve plate 121 moves away from the valve inlet 113a. The furthest distance the first diverting valve plate 121 moves away from the valve inlet 113a from its limit position closest to the valve inlet 113a defines the range of motion of the first diverting valve plate 121 when performing its "non-drying" function. In this embodiment, the maximum distance between the hook portion 31 and the overlapping portion 32 is defined to be greater than the maximum distance that the first diversion valve plate 121 moves away from the valve inlet 113a. The purpose is to ensure that when the first diversion valve plate 121 moves back and forth throughout its entire non-drying stroke, the hook portion 31 on it can never touch the overlapping portion 32 on the first air blocking member 122.

[0090] During the washing process, the first diverting valve plate 121 can move back and forth within its preset stroke to precisely control the water flow distribution of different spray arms 74. This prevents the hook portion 31 from accidentally engaging with the overlapping portion 32 during the washing process, which could cause the first air-blocking component 122 to disengage from its air-blocking position and lead to the risk of washing water leaking into the air passage. Even if the first diverting valve plate 121 moves to its limit position, it still cannot contact the overlapping portion 32, ensuring that the first air-blocking component 122 is always constrained by the first elastic member 123 and continuously adheres to the valve inlet 113a, thus ensuring the sealing reliability during the washing process.

[0091] Please refer to Figure 1-5In some embodiments, the first air-blocking component 122 includes a plug 1221 and a connecting rod 1222. The plug 1221 is used to open and close the air inlet 113a of the valve, that is, the plug 1221 is tightly fitted to the air inlet 113a of the valve under the action of the first elastic component 123.

[0092] The plug 1221 can be frustoconical. As the plug 1221 moves toward the valve inlet 113a, its inclined side acts like a funnel, providing a natural guide. Even if there is a slight deviation between the plug 1221 and the centerline of the valve inlet 113a, the conical surface will generate a lateral force upon contact with the inlet wall, automatically pushing the plug 1221 back to the correct coaxial position. This self-centering function greatly reduces the requirements for manufacturing and assembly precision, ensuring that the plug 1221 can accurately and smoothly enter the valve inlet 113a each time, effectively avoiding jamming or sealing failure caused by misalignment.

[0093] As the plug 1221 moves toward the air-blocking position, its conical surface will first contact the edge of the valve inlet 113a. As the plug 1221 continues to move deeper, the sealing contact area will gradually expand along the conical surface, and the sealing pressure will increase linearly. This gradual sealing process has less impact than that of a planar plug 1221, and the seal formation is smoother and gentler.

[0094] The connecting rod 1222 is connected to the end of the plug 1221 away from the valve inlet 113a. The connecting rod 1222 extends in a direction parallel to the axial direction of the valve inlet 113a, and the extension length of the connecting rod 1222 can be set according to actual needs. The overlapping part 32 is connected to the end of the connecting rod 1222 away from the plug 1221. The connecting rod 1222 stably transmits the driving force (from the hook part 31) received by the overlapping part 32 to the plug 1221, causing the plug 1221 to slide away from the valve inlet 113a.

[0095] Please refer to Figure 3-5 In some embodiments, the valve housing 11 further includes a support portion 114, which may protrude from the cavity wall of the valve cavity 111a. That is, the support portion 114 is a part extending from the valve housing 11. The support portion 114 may be connected to the inner wall of the valve cavity 111a arranged opposite each other in the length direction, rather than the side wall of the valve cavity 111a. Understandably, in this embodiment, the sliding direction of the first diversion valve plate 121 is the length direction of the valve cavity 111a. The connection position of the support portion 114 can avoid the sliding path of the first diversion valve plate 121, ensuring that the two do not interfere with each other.

[0096] The support portion 114 has a certain thickness in the sliding direction of the first diverter valve plate 121. The support portion 114 has a sliding hole that extends through the thickness direction of the support portion 114. Understandably, its extension direction is parallel to the moving direction of the first diverter valve plate 121. The connecting rod 1222 is slidably inserted into the sliding hole. The plug 1221 is located on one side of the sliding hole along the sliding direction of the connecting rod 1222, while the overlapping portion 32 is located on the other side. The sliding hole can constrain the outer periphery of the connecting rod 1222 through the hole wall, which can guide the moving direction of the first air-blocking component 122 and reduce the shaking or swaying that may occur during the operation of the first air-blocking component 122.

[0097] Please refer to Figure 3-5 Furthermore, the first elastic element 123 is sleeved on the outer periphery of the connecting rod 1222, so that the first elastic element 123 and the connecting rod 1222 form a coaxial and compact assembly. The first elastic element 123 is a spring. During the compression and extension process, each turn of the spring is restricted by the outer diameter of the connecting rod 1222, preventing bending or twisting. This ensures that the force of the spring is always transmitted along its axial direction, avoiding lateral forces or jamming caused by spring buckling.

[0098] Furthermore, both ends of the first elastic element 123 abut against the plug 1221 and the support portion 114, respectively. That is, the support portion 114 and the plug 1221 limit the spring from both sides in the axial direction. When the plug 1221 moves towards the support portion 114 (i.e., opens the valve inlet 113a), the spring is compressed, thereby storing potential energy. When the driving force disappears, the spring releases energy, pushing the plug 1221 back to the sealed position. In other words, in addition to providing guidance for the connecting rod 1222, the support portion 114 also serves as a support surface for the spring's reaction force.

[0099] Please refer to Figure 3-5 In some embodiments, the water-gas distribution valve 10 further includes at least two guide posts 115. The guide posts 115 extend along the sliding direction of the first air-blocking member 122. One end of the guide post 115 is connected to the valve housing 11, and the other end is connected to the support part 114. That is, the support part 114 is firmly mounted in the valve cavity 111a through the guide posts 115.

[0100] At least two guide posts 115 are arranged circumferentially around the plug 1221, forming an annular guide boundary. This provides multi-point constraint on the plug 1221 in the circumferential direction, addressing the sag issue most likely to occur due to the plug 1221's large weight and long lever arm. The guide posts 115, through their sliding engagement with the plug 1221, directly limit the sag tendency of the plug 1221 at its source. Furthermore, they prevent wobbling during the sliding process of the plug 1221, forming a "dual positioning" with the central constraint of the sliding hole on the connecting rod 1222, ensuring that the plug 1221 and the valve inlet 113a are always coaxially aligned.

[0101] Please refer to Figure 3-5 In some embodiments, the first diversion valve plate 121 is provided with multiple sets of spaced-apart first flow ports 121a. Each set of first flow ports 121a includes at least one first flow port 121a1. Understandably, when the first diversion valve plate 121 moves, different sets of first flow ports 121a communicate with the diversion ports 11a. That is, washing water or drying airflow enters the valve cavity 111a from the corresponding valve inlet 112a or valve air inlet 113a. The valve cavity 111a is connected to the first valve plate cavity 121b, and the first flow ports 121a1 are provided on the cavity wall of the first valve plate cavity 121b. By moving the first diversion valve plate 121, the first flow ports 121a1 in different sets can be aligned with the target diversion port 11a, thereby achieving "single first diversion port 11a conduction" and "multiple first diversion ports 11a synchronous conduction". With multiple flow path combinations, this flexibility can be adapted to different cleaning / drying scenarios (such as localized focused spraying and full-area coverage spraying), avoiding functional limitations caused by fixed flow paths.

[0102] Please refer to Figure 3-5 For example, based on the above-mentioned upper spray arm 741, middle spray arm 742 and lower spray arm 743, the first group of first flow ports 121a can be correspondingly provided with an upper flow port connected to the upper flow port and a lower flow port connected to the lower flow port, while the second group of first flow ports 121a is provided with a middle flow port adapted to the middle flow port.

[0103] When the first diversion valve plate 121 moves to the first group of first flow ports 121a and the diversion port 11a of the valve housing 11, the middle diversion port is blocked by the wall of the first diversion valve plate 121, and the washing water or drying airflow is simultaneously delivered to the upper spray arm 741 and the lower spray arm 743 to achieve localized key cleaning of the upper and lower areas of the tableware.

[0104] When the first diversion valve plate 121 moves to the second group of first flow ports 121a and aligns with the diversion port 11a of the valve housing 11, both the upper and lower diversion ports are blocked by the wall of the first diversion valve plate 121. At this time, the washing water is only delivered to the middle spray arm 742, which is suitable for scenarios where the middle rack is used to place tableware (such as a small number of dishes) separately, thus avoiding the waste of water and energy caused by the idling of the upper / lower spray arms.

[0105] Similarly, the first diversion valve plate 121 can be provided with multiple different first flow port groups 121a. The configuration of each first flow port group 121a is designed according to the target spray arm 74 combination to ensure precise adaptation with the corresponding diversion port 11a. By sliding the first diversion valve plate 121, the conversion between different spraying modes can be quickly realized without the need for additional blocking components. The structure of the first diversion valve plate 121 ensures the opening or closing of the flow path, meeting the diverse cleaning scene requirements of the dishwasher 100.

[0106] Please refer to Figure 3-5 In this embodiment, at least one group of first flow ports 121a includes at least two first flow ports 121a1, which is configured with a composite function that can simultaneously match multiple flow ports 11a. That is, it is no longer a connection between a single first flow port 121a1 and a single flow port 11a, but rather a connection between at least two first flow ports 121a1 and at least two flow ports 11a, so that at least two of the multiple spray arms 74 work simultaneously.

[0107] The line connecting the center points of all the first flow ports 121a1 within the same group is parallel to the line connecting the center points of the multiple branch ports 11a. Since the multiple branch ports 11a on the valve housing 11 are fixed, the line connecting their center points is a fixed reference line. The multiple first flow ports 121a1 within the same group on the first branch valve plate 121 need to be synchronously aligned with the target branch port 11a to avoid a situation where one first flow port 121a1 is aligned while another first flow port 121a1 is offset. Therefore, the arrangement direction of all the first flow ports 121a1 within the same group needs to be consistent with the arrangement direction of the multiple branch ports 11a. This ensures that during the entire sliding process of the first branch valve plate 121, all the first flow ports 121a1 within the same group can act as a whole, simultaneously and synchronously reaching the optimal alignment position with their respective corresponding branch ports 11a, realizing the "simultaneous opening and closing" of multiple flow paths, and ensuring the perfect realization of the combined operation of multiple spray arms 74.

[0108] Please refer to Figure 1 as well as Figure 9-13In one embodiment, the water-air switching component 13 includes a second air-blocking component 124, which is movably disposed within the valve housing 11 in a direction away from or near the valve inlet 113a; the fluid distribution component 14 includes a second diverting valve plate 125, which is rotatably disposed within the valve housing 11 about the moving direction of the second air-blocking component 124; the valve core assembly 12 further includes a second elastic member 126, which abuts against the second air-blocking component 124, such that the second air-blocking component 124 faces the valve inlet 113a. The movement trend; wherein, in the washing state, the second air-blocking component 124 is driven to move to control the valve air inlet 113a to close, and the second diversion valve plate 125 is driven to rotate to control the valve water inlet 112a to be switchably connected to at least one diversion port 11a; in the drying state, the second air-blocking component 124 is driven to move to control the valve air inlet 113a to open, and the second diversion valve plate 125 is driven to rotate to control the valve air inlet 113a to be connected to the valve water inlet 112a and / or to make the valve air inlet 113a switchably connected to at least one diversion port 11a.

[0109] In the washing state, the second air-blocking component 124 moves to control the valve air inlet 113a to close, that is, the second air-blocking component 124 can move towards the valve air inlet 113a until it blocks the valve air inlet 113a, so as to prevent washing water from entering the drying system 40A through the valve air inlet 113a. Meanwhile, the second diversion valve plate 125 rotates to control the valve water inlet 112a to be switched to connect with at least one diversion port 11a, so that the washing water flows to the corresponding spray arm 74 and is sprayed out from the nozzle of the spray arm 74 to clean the tableware.

[0110] In the drying state, the second air-blocking component 124 moves to control the opening of the valve air inlet 113a, that is, the first air-blocking component 122 can move away from the valve air inlet 113a until it is spaced apart from the valve air inlet 113a. Correspondingly, the second diversion valve plate 125 rotates to control the valve air inlet 113a to connect with the valve water inlet 112a and / or control the valve air inlet 113a to switchably connect with at least one diversion port 11a. That is, the second diversion valve plate 125 can achieve three working modes by rotating to meet different drying requirements.

[0111] It is understandable that the specific way in which the second diverter valve plate 125 achieves the three working modes by rotating is similar to the way the first diverter valve plate 121 achieves the three working modes by moving, and will not be elaborated on here.

[0112] Please refer to Figure 1 as well as Figure 9-13 Specifically, the water-air distribution valve 10 includes a motion conversion mechanism 30, which can convert rotational motion into linear motion and drive the second air-blocking component 124 to move between the air-blocking position and the air-venting position.

[0113] The motion conversion mechanism 30 includes a lead screw transmission mechanism 34, which includes a threaded lead screw 341 and a transmission seat 342. The lead screw 341 is linked to and coaxially arranged with the output shaft 224 of the motor, so that the rotation of the output shaft 224 of the motor can be synchronously transmitted to the lead screw 341, driving the lead screw 341 to rotate around its own axis. The transmission seat 342 is connected to the second air-blocking component 124, that is, the transmission seat 342 is threadedly fitted onto the lead screw 341 to drive the second air-blocking component 124 to move between the air-blocking position and the air-venting position.

[0114] The pitch and length of the lead screw 341 can be flexibly designed according to the travel requirements of the second air-blocking component 124. The connection method between the transmission seat 342 and the second air-blocking component 124 can also be adjusted according to the structure of the air-blocking component, so that the transmission scheme can be adapted to the design of water and air distribution valves 10 with different sizes and sealing requirements, and has strong flexibility and versatility.

[0115] By converting the rotation of the lead screw 341 into the linear movement of the transmission seat 342 through the threaded engagement, the movement distance of the second air-blocking component 124 can be precisely controlled, ensuring that it can tightly fit the valve inlet 113a to achieve a reliable seal when in the air-blocking position, and can fully open the valve inlet 113a to ensure smooth airflow when in the air-ventilating position, thus reducing the risk of failure caused by incomplete air-blocking.

[0116] Please refer to Figure 1 as well as Figure 9-13 Specifically, the second elastic element 126 can be a compression spring, specifically a cylindrical helical compression spring, made of stainless steel, which has good corrosion resistance and elastic recovery ability, avoiding functional failure due to rust or elastic decay after long-term use.

[0117] The two ends of the second elastic member 126 abut against the second air-blocking member 124 and the transmission seat 342 respectively, causing the second air-blocking member 124 to tend to move toward the valve inlet 113a. An annular groove is provided on the end face of the second air-blocking member 124 facing the transmission seat 342. Correspondingly, an annular groove 22a is also provided on the end face of the transmission seat 342 facing the second air-blocking member 124. One end of the second elastic member 126 is embedded in the annular groove and the other end is embedded in the annular groove 22a to prevent the second elastic member 126 from shifting or tilting during compression / extension.

[0118] After installation, the second elastic element 126 is always in a pre-compressed state. Through the thrust generated by its own elastic deformation, it applies a force to the second air-blocking element 124 in the direction of the valve inlet 113a, so that the second air-blocking element 124 naturally has a tendency to move towards the valve inlet 113a.

[0119] When the lead screw drive mechanism 34 drives the drive seat 342 to move axially, the second elastic element 126 is compressed or extended synchronously with the movement of the drive seat 342: if the drive seat 342 moves closer to the second air-blocking element 124, it will further compress the second elastic element 126, increase the elastic thrust, and accelerate the movement of the second air-blocking element 124 toward the valve inlet 113a; if the drive seat 342 moves away from the second air-blocking element 124, the compression of the second elastic element 126 decreases, and the elastic thrust is gradually released. At this time, the second air-blocking element 124 can maintain its fit with the valve inlet 113a under the action of the elastic thrust.

[0120] Please refer to Figure 1 as well as Figure 9-13 In some embodiments, the end of the second elastic member 126 near the transmission seat 342 is fixed to the transmission seat 342. When the transmission seat 342 continues to move away from the valve air inlet 113a and the moving distance exceeds the maximum extension of the second elastic member 126, the transmission seat 342 will exert a pulling force on the second air blocking member 124 through the second elastic member 126, thereby driving the second air blocking member 124 to overcome the adhesion force and move away from the valve air inlet 113a, and finally causing the second air blocking member 124 to disengage from the valve air inlet 113a and open the air passage (enter the drying state).

[0121] Please refer to Figure 1 as well as Figure 9-13 In some embodiments, the transmission base 342 includes a transmission rod 3421 and a support platform 3422. The transmission rod 3421 has a long strip structure and can be made of high-strength metal or engineering plastic to ensure that it is not easily deformed during power transmission. The second elastic member 126 is sleeved on the transmission rod 3421. The transmission rod 3421 can provide stable support for the second elastic member 126. The transmission rod 3421 plays a precise guiding role for the second elastic member 126. Compared with the non-guided installation method, it can effectively limit the radial displacement of the second elastic member 126 during the extension and retraction process, and prevent the second elastic member 126 from failing to abut against the second air-blocking member 124 and the support platform 3422 due to displacement, or from interfering with other components inside the valve body 11.

[0122] The support platform 3422 is connected to one end of the transmission rod 3421 away from the valve inlet 113a. The support platform 3422 is cylindrical and its material can be the same as that of the transmission rod 3421. It is fixed to the transmission rod 3421 by integral molding, and the outer diameter of the support platform 3422 is larger than the outer diameter of the transmission rod 3421. The aforementioned annular groove 22a is provided on the support platform 3422 and is arranged around the transmission rod 3421. The two ends of the second elastic member 126 abut against the support platform 3422 and the second air-blocking member 124 respectively, providing a reliable force-bearing support surface for the second elastic member 126 and preventing the second elastic member 126 from falling off one end of the transmission rod 3421 away from the valve inlet 113a during compression or extension.

[0123] During assembly, the second elastic element 126 can be directly sleeved on the transmission rod 3421, and the initial positioning of the second elastic element 126 can be completed by the limiting of the support platform 3422. There is no need to set up additional complex positioning fixtures or fixing structures, which simplifies the assembly steps.

[0124] Please refer to Figure 1 as well as Figure 9-13 In some embodiments, the inner wall of the valve housing 11 and one of the second air-blocking components 124 are provided with a sliding portion 127, and the other is provided with a limiting slide extending axially parallel to the output shaft 224. The sliding portion 127 is slidably disposed in the limiting slide, forming a constraint relationship that only allows movement along the axial direction parallel to the output shaft 224, strictly limiting the radial rotation or offset of the second air-blocking component 124 in a non-parallel direction.

[0125] Ensure that when the second air-blocking component 124 moves from the venting position to the air-blocking position, its sealing end is always aligned with the center area of ​​the valve inlet 113a, and that the sealing end is not misaligned with the edge of the valve inlet 113a due to the shift in the moving direction, so as to avoid problems such as local sealing and local leakage.

[0126] Please refer to Figure 1 as well as Figure 9-13 Specifically, in this embodiment, a sliding part 127 is disposed on the second air-blocking member 124. There are two sliding parts 127, which are disposed on opposite sides of the second air-blocking member 124 and extend radially. Correspondingly, the cavity wall of the valve cavity 111a is provided with two limiting slides. The two limiting slides and the two sliding parts 127 are arranged one-to-one to form a symmetrical guide support structure, so that the limiting slide constraint reaction force and frictional resistance on both sides of the second air-blocking member 124 remain balanced during the movement, and the second air-blocking member 124 is prevented from tilting or shifting to one side due to excessive force on one side.

[0127] When the two sliding parts 127 cooperate with the two limiting slides respectively, the second air-blocking component 124 is mounted inside the valve cavity 111a. The second air-blocking component 124 is mounted inside the valve cavity 111a through the sliding parts 127 on both sides, which can ensure that its sealing end (the end facing the valve inlet 113a) always maintains a horizontal posture parallel to the valve inlet 113a, and avoids the sealing end tilting due to uneven contact force between the second air-blocking component 124 and the inner wall of the valve cavity 111a.

[0128] Please refer to Figure 1 as well as Figure 9-13In some embodiments, the second air-blocking component 124 includes a sealing head 1241 and a guide rod 1242. The sealing head 1241 is frustum-shaped, and the aforementioned annular groove can be provided on the end face of the sealing head 1241 facing the transmission seat 342. The end face of the sealing head 1241 facing the valve inlet 113a is the sealing surface. Air blocking is achieved by fitting against the end face of the valve inlet 113a, that is, the sealing head 1241 is used to open and close the valve inlet 113a. The guide rod 1242 is connected to the end of the sealing head 1241 away from the valve inlet 113a, and can be integrally formed, threadedly connected, or snap-fit ​​connected to ensure synchronous movement of the two.

[0129] Please refer to Figure 11 The guide rod 1242 has a guide groove 1242a extending axially parallel to the output shaft 224. The transmission seat 342 also includes a guide portion 3423 protruding from the support platform 3422. The guide portion 3423 extends radially along the transmission seat 342 and is slidably inserted in the guide groove 1242a. When the transmission seat 342 moves axially with the screw transmission mechanism 34, the guide portion 3423 slides synchronously along the guide groove 1242a. Through the constraint of the guide groove 1242a, the movement direction of the second air plug 124 is completely consistent with that of the transmission seat 342.

[0130] Because the second air-blocking component 124 is strictly restricted from circumferential rotation through the cooperation of the sliding parts 127 on both sides with the limiting slide of the valve cavity 111a, and the guide part 3423 of the transmission seat 342 passes through the guide groove 1242a of the guide rod 1242 of the second air-blocking component 124, the circumferential posture of the guide groove 1242a is fixed, and the guide part 3423 is circumferentially limited by the inner wall of the guide groove 1242a, thus avoiding the circumferential rotation of the transmission seat 342 that may occur due to the threaded engagement characteristics of the screw 341, and ensuring that the transmission seat 342 can only translate along the axial direction parallel to the output shaft 224.

[0131] When the sealing head 1241 of the second air-blocking component 124 initially contacts the valve inlet 113a (reaching the preset air-blocking position), the second air-blocking component 124 is blocked by the valve inlet 113a and cannot continue to move forward. However, the lead screw 341 can still continue to rotate under the drive of the motor, driving the transmission seat 342 to continue to move towards the valve inlet 113a. At this time, the second air-blocking component 124 is stationary, the distance between the transmission seat 342 and the second air-blocking component 124 is reduced, the second elastic element 126 is further compressed, and the guide part 3423 slides along the guide groove 1242a towards the valve inlet 113a, so as to avoid the lead screw 341 from jamming or the motor from being overloaded due to the inability of the transmission seat 342 to move.

[0132] When the output shaft 224 reverses, the transmission seat 342 moves away from the valve inlet 113a. Initially, the transmission seat 342 moves independently, and the guide part 3423 slides along the guide groove 1242a away from the valve inlet 113a. At this time, the second air-blocking component 124 remains in contact with the valve inlet 113a under the elastic thrust of the second elastic component 126. When the transmission seat 342 moves to the point where the guide part 3423 abuts against the guide groove 1242... When the valve air inlet 113a moves away from the side wall of the groove, the subsequent movement of the transmission seat 342 is transmitted to the second air blocking component 124 through the contact between the guide part 3423 and the side wall of the guide slide 1242a. This pulls the second air blocking component 124 away from the valve air inlet 113a. As the second air blocking component 124 gradually moves away from the valve air inlet 113a, the valve air inlet 113a opens, and the drying airflow can enter the valve chamber 111a, completing the switch from the washing state to the drying state.

[0133] Please refer to Figure 1 as well as Figure 9-13 In some embodiments, a transmission key 343 is provided between the output shaft 224 and the lead screw 341 along the axial direction of the output shaft 224. The second diversion valve plate 125 has a keyway 125b adapted to the transmission key 343. The keyway 125b is located in the middle of the second diversion valve plate 125. The transmission key 343 is embedded in the keyway 125b. When the motor drives the output shaft 224 to rotate, the transmission key 343 transmits torque through the side wall of the keyway 125b, synchronously driving the lead screw 341 to rotate and the second diversion valve plate 125 to rotate, so as to realize the movement of the transmission seat 342 and realize the switching of water / air circuit, ensuring that the rotation of the three is completely synchronized.

[0134] During assembly, simply align the keyway 125b of the second diverter valve plate 125 with the transmission key 343 and insert it. This will automatically ensure the relative angular position of the second diverter valve plate 125 with the output shaft 224 and the lead screw 341. No additional angle calibration is required, which greatly simplifies the assembly process.

[0135] Please refer to Figure 1 as well as Figure 9-13 In some embodiments, a stop portion 344 is also provided between the output shaft 224 and the transmission key 343. The stop portion 344 can be an annular structure, either integrally formed with the output shaft 224 or a separate annular washer. The outer diameter of the stop portion 344 is larger than the outer diameter of the keyway 125b, and the stop portion 344 abuts against the surface where the groove of the keyway 125b is located. That is, after the second diverter valve plate 125 is assembled in place, the end face of the stop portion 344 can fit tightly against the end face where the keyway 125b of the second diverter valve plate 125 is located, thus restricting the axial displacement of the second diverter valve plate 125.

[0136] During installation, the assembler only needs to fit the second diversion valve plate 125 along the transmission key 343 until it abuts against the stop part 344 to confirm the accurate axial position of the second diversion valve plate 125. If the second diversion valve plate 125 is installed too deep, it may get close to the output shaft 224 and cause friction.

[0137] Furthermore, the tight contact between the stop part 344 and the keyway 125b of the second diversion valve plate 125 can prevent the washing water and residue in the valve cavity 111a from entering the mating gap between the second diversion valve plate 125 and the transmission key 343, thus preventing the output shaft 224 from rusting or jamming.

[0138] Please refer to Figure 1 as well as Figure 9-13 In some embodiments, the second diversion valve plate 125 has a second valve plate cavity 125c communicating with the valve cavity 111a. The second diversion valve plate 125 has multiple sets of second flow ports 125a arranged at intervals along its circumference. Each set of second flow ports 125a includes at least one second flow port 125a1, which is disposed on the cavity wall of the second valve plate cavity 125c. Understandably, when the second diversion valve plate 125 rotates, it can be switched so that any one of the multiple sets of second flow ports 125a corresponds to the diversion port 11a, that is, the washing water or drying airflow flows from the diversion port 111a. The corresponding valve inlet 112a or valve air inlet 113a enters the second valve plate cavity 125c. By rotating the second diversion valve plate 125, all the second flow ports 125a1 in the second flow port group 125a corresponding to the diversion port 11a can be connected to their respective corresponding diversion ports 11a, so as to realize various flow path combinations such as "single second diversion port 11a conduction" and "multiple second diversion ports 11a synchronous conduction". This flexibility can be adapted to different cleaning / drying scenarios (such as local key spraying and full-area coverage spraying) and avoid functional limitations caused by fixed flow paths.

[0139] For example, based on the above-mentioned upper spray arm 741, middle spray arm 742 and lower spray arm 743, the first group of second flow ports 125a can be correspondingly provided with an upper flow port communicating with the upper flow port and a lower flow port communicating with the lower flow port, while the second group of second flow ports 125a is provided with a middle flow port adapted to the middle flow port.

[0140] When the second diversion valve plate 125 rotates to align the first group of second flow ports 125a with the diversion port 11a of the valve housing 11, the middle diversion port is blocked by the wall of the second diversion valve plate 125, and the washing water or drying airflow is simultaneously delivered to the upper spray arm 741 and the lower spray arm 743 to achieve localized key cleaning of the upper and lower areas of the tableware.

[0141] When the second diversion valve plate 125 rotates to align the second group of second flow ports 125a with the diversion port 11a of the valve housing 11, both the upper and lower diversion ports are blocked by the wall of the second diversion valve plate 125. At this time, the fluid is only delivered to the middle spray arm 742, which is suitable for scenarios where tableware (such as a small number of bowls and plates) is placed separately in the middle layer of the dish rack, avoiding the waste of water resources and energy caused by the idling of the upper / lower spray arms.

[0142] Similarly, the second diversion valve plate 125 can be equipped with multiple different sets of second flow port groups 125a. The configuration of each set of second flow port groups 125a is designed according to the target spray arm 74 combination to ensure precise adaptation with the corresponding diversion port 11a. By sliding the second diversion valve plate 125, the conversion between different spraying modes can be quickly realized without the need for additional blocking components. The structure of the second diversion valve plate 125 ensures the opening or closing of the flow path, meeting the diverse cleaning scene requirements of the dishwasher.

[0143] Please refer to Figure 1 as well as Figure 9-13 In this embodiment, at least one group of second flow ports 125a includes at least two second flow ports 125a1, which is configured with a composite function that can simultaneously match multiple flow ports 11a. That is, it is no longer a connection between a single second flow port 125a1 and a single flow port 11a, but rather a connection between at least two second flow ports 125a1 and at least two flow ports 11a, so that at least two of the multiple spray arms 74 work simultaneously.

[0144] The line connecting the center points of all the second flow ports 125a1 within the same group is parallel to the line connecting the center points of the multiple branch ports 11a. Since the multiple branch ports 11a on the valve housing 11 are fixed, the line connecting their center points is a fixed reference line. The multiple second flow ports 125a1 within the same group on the second flow divider valve plate 125 need to be synchronously aligned with the target branch port 11a to avoid a situation where one second flow port 125a1 is aligned while another second flow port 125a1 is offset. Therefore, the arrangement direction of all the second flow ports 125a1 within the same group needs to be consistent with the arrangement direction of the multiple branch ports 11a. This ensures that during the entire sliding process of the second flow divider valve plate 125, all the second flow ports 125a1 within the same group can act as a whole, simultaneously and synchronously reaching the optimal alignment position with their respective corresponding branch ports 11a, realizing the "simultaneous opening and closing" of multiple flow paths and ensuring the perfect realization of the combined operation of multiple spray arms.

[0145] Please refer to Figure 1 as well as Figure 9-13In some embodiments, the second diversion valve plate 125 includes a cylindrical side plate 1251 and an end plate 1252. The cylindrical side plate 1251 forms a cylindrical structure similar to one end open and one end closed. The end plate 1252 is connected to one end of the cylindrical side plate 1251 away from the valve inlet 113a. The end plate 1252 is provided with the aforementioned keyway 125b, which is located in the middle of the end plate 1252. Understandably, the end plate 1252 is drive-connected to the output shaft 224.

[0146] The cylindrical side plate 1251 is an annular side wall (cylindrical around its own axis). The cylindrical side plate 1251 has a second flow port 125a1. Multiple sets of second flow ports 125a1 are arranged at intervals along the circumference of the cylindrical side plate 1251. For example, there are four sets in total, with adjacent sets spaced 90° apart. Five sets or six sets can also be provided, depending on the actual needs. Different sets of second flow ports 125a will not cause crossflow due to overlap.

[0147] Multiple guide tubes are arranged axially parallel to the cylindrical side plate 1251. Correspondingly, for a second flow port group 125a containing at least two second flow ports 125a1, all the second flow ports 125a1 in the same group are arranged axially parallel to the cylindrical side plate 1251. With this parallel arrangement design, as long as the overall axial position of the second diversion valve plate 125 is correct, all the second flow ports 125a1 in the same group will naturally be axially aligned with their respective guide tubes.

[0148] Specifically, the outer circumferential surface of the cylindrical side plate 1251 is cylindrical, and the platform surface of the flow divider is constructed with an inwardly concave arc surface that matches the outer circumferential surface of the cylindrical side plate 1251. This configuration allows for a sliding fit between the inwardly concave arc surface of the flow divider and the cylindrical surface of the cylindrical side plate 1251 when the second flow divider valve 125 rotates within the valve cavity 111a. The radius of curvature of this inwardly concave arc surface matches the radius of curvature of the cylindrical side plate 1251, enabling them to fit tightly together circumferentially, thereby minimizing the radial clearance between them and reducing fluid leakage from the mating surface between the valve plate and the flow divider.

[0149] Please refer to Figure 1 as well as Figure 9-13In some embodiments, the cylindrical side plate 1251 is provided with a clearance notch 1251a to allow washing water flowing in from the valve inlet 112a to pass through. Since the cylindrical side plate 1251 is connected to the end plate 1252 and surrounds the second valve plate cavity 125c, if the clearance notch 1251a is not provided, the plate body of the cylindrical side plate 1251 will block the valve inlet 112a during the washing state. The clearance notch 1251a allows water to flow smoothly by opening a channel in the cylindrical side plate 1251 at the position corresponding to the valve inlet 112a. During the drying state, if the valve inlet 112a is not needed for drying, the rotation of the second diverter valve plate 125 can allow the portion of the cylindrical side plate 1251 without the clearance notch 1251a to cover the valve inlet 112a, thus blocking the valve inlet 112a.

[0150] Please refer to Figure 1 as well as Figure 6-8 In one embodiment, the water-gas switching component 13 includes a water-gas distribution valve plate 131, which is disposed inside the valve housing 11 and rotatably connected to the valve housing 11; the fluid distribution component 14 includes a rotating diverting valve plate 141, which is disposed inside the valve housing 11 and rotatably connected to the valve housing 11.

[0151] In the washing state, the water and air distribution valve plate 131 is driven to rotate to control the valve air inlet 113a to be isolated from the valve water inlet 112a and all the diversion ports 11a, so as to prevent washing water from entering the drying system 40A through the valve air inlet 113a. The diversion valve plate 141 is driven to rotate to control the valve water inlet 112a to be switchably connected to at least one diversion port 11a, so that the washing water flows to the corresponding spray arm 74 and is sprayed out from the nozzle of the spray arm 74 to clean the tableware.

[0152] In the drying state, the water-air distribution valve plate 131 is driven to rotate to control the valve air inlet 113a to connect with at least one diversion port 11a and / or the valve water inlet 112a, and the rotating diversion valve plate 141 is driven to rotate to control the valve air inlet 113a to be switchably connected with at least one diversion port 11a. That is, the water-air distribution valve plate 131 and the rotating diversion valve plate 141 can achieve three working modes by rotation to meet different drying requirements.

[0153] Please refer to Figure 1 as well as Figure 6-8 Specifically, the water and air distribution valve plate 131 is driven to rotate so that the air inlet 113a is connected only to the water inlet 112a, so that the drying airflow flows to the water inlet 112a and enters the water cup 72, and then enters the washing chamber 71a. This can dry the water path connected to the water inlet 112a, remove the residual moisture in the water cup 72, reduce the probability of bacterial growth and odor caused by the humid environment in the water cup 72, and improve the hygiene level of the dishwasher 100.

[0154] The water-air distribution valve plate 131 is driven to rotate to control the air inlet 113a to connect with at least one diversion port 11a, and the diversion valve plate 141 is driven to rotate to control the air inlet 113a to switchably connect with at least one diversion port 11a, so that the drying airflow is sprayed into the washing chamber 71a through the corresponding spray arm 74. By selectively controlling the connection with different diversion ports 11a, the temperature in the washing chamber 71a can be evenly distributed, thereby improving the drying efficiency.

[0155] The water-air distribution valve 131 is driven to rotate, controlling the valve inlet 113a to connect to both the valve water inlet 112a and at least one branch port 11a. The branch port 141 is also driven to rotate, allowing the valve inlet 113a to switchably connect to at least one branch port 11a. This splits the drying airflow into two paths, handling the internal drying of the water cup 72 and the external drying of the tableware in parallel, maximizing drying efficiency. While ensuring the hygiene of the water system, the tableware is dried simultaneously, making the entire drying process faster and more comprehensive, achieving better drying results and hygiene standards.

[0156] Please refer to Figure 1 as well as Figure 6-8 In one specific embodiment, since both the water-gas distribution valve plate 131 and the rotating diversion valve plate 141 are plate-shaped structures, the water-gas distribution valve 10 can be thinned in its structural design without affecting its function of switching between water and gas distribution. This helps to reduce the volume of the water-gas distribution valve 10.

[0157] The water-air distribution valve plate 131 has a third flow port 131a, and the rotating diversion valve plate 141 has a fourth flow port 141a. In the washing state, the water-air distribution valve plate 131 rotates to the position of closing the valve air inlet 113a or blocking the airflow channel, so that the third flow port 131a is connected to the valve water inlet 112a. The rotating diversion valve plate 141 controls the valve water inlet 112a to be switched to be connected to at least one diversion port 11a through the third flow port 131a and the fourth flow port 141a. In the drying state, the water-air distribution valve plate 131 is rotated to the ventilation position where the third flow port 131a is connected to the valve air inlet 113a or the airflow channel. The diversion valve plate 141 is rotated to control the valve air inlet 113a to be connected to the valve water inlet 112a through the third flow port 131a and the fourth flow port 141a and / or to control the valve air inlet 113a to be switched to be connected to at least one diversion port 11a through the third flow port 131a and the fourth flow port 141a.

[0158] Please refer to Figure 1 as well as Figure 6-8For example, based on the above-described configuration of the upper spray arm 741, middle spray arm 742, and lower spray arm 743, the multiple fourth flow ports 141a can be respectively configured as an upper flow port communicating with the upper flow port, a lower flow port communicating with the lower flow port, and a middle flow port adapted to the middle flow port. When the rotating flow divider valve plate 141 moves circumferentially along the valve housing 11 until the upper flow port aligns with one flow port 11a of the valve housing 11 and the lower flow port aligns with another flow port 11a of the valve housing 11, the middle flow port is blocked by the wall of the rotating flow divider valve plate 141. In this way, washing water or drying airflow can be simultaneously delivered to the upper spray arm 741 and the lower spray arm 743 to achieve localized focused cleaning of the upper and lower areas of the tableware.

[0159] When the rotating diversion valve plate 141 rotates circumferentially along the valve housing 11 until the middle flow port is aligned with a diversion port 11a of the valve housing 11, both the upper and lower flow ports are blocked by the wall of the rotating diversion valve plate 141. At this time, the fluid is only delivered to the middle spray arm 742, which is suitable for scenarios where the middle dish rack 90 is used to place tableware (such as a small number of bowls and plates) separately, thus avoiding the waste of water and energy caused by the idling of the upper / lower spray arms.

[0160] Similarly, the rotating diversion valve 141 can be equipped with multiple sets of different fourth flow ports 141a. The configuration of each set of fourth flow ports 141a is designed according to the target spray arm 74 combination to ensure precise adaptation with the corresponding diversion port 11a. By rotating the diversion valve 141, different spraying modes can be quickly switched without the need for additional blocking components. The structure of the rotating diversion valve 141 ensures the flow path is open or closed, meeting the diverse cleaning scene requirements of the dishwasher 100.

[0161] It is understood that the water-gas distribution valve plate 131 is located between the diversion port 11a and the valve inlet 112a, and between the diversion port 11a and the valve air inlet 113a. The periphery of the water-gas distribution valve plate 131 is sealed to the inner wall of the valve housing 11. If a sealing ring is fitted around the periphery of the water-gas distribution valve plate 131, the sealing ring can seal the gap between the water-gas distribution valve plate 131 and the inner wall of the valve housing 11, thus preventing leakage points from appearing around the periphery of the water-gas distribution valve plate 131. Of course, the sealing method between the periphery of the water-gas distribution valve plate 131 and the inner wall of the valve housing 11 can also be achieved by other sealing methods, which will not be described in detail here.

[0162] Please refer to Figure 1 as well as Figure 6-8In some embodiments, the water-gas switching component 13 further includes at least one fixed valve plate 132. The at least one fixed valve plate 132 is sealed to the cavity wall of the valve cavity 111a and is stacked with the water-gas distribution valve plate 131, with their edges sealed together. For example, a fixed valve plate 132 is located below the water-gas distribution valve plate 131. The side of the fixed valve plate 132 facing away from the water-gas distribution valve plate 131 is sealed to the valve housing 11 through a valve plate sealing ring 16. The fixed valve plate 132 and the water-gas distribution valve plate 131 are in close contact. The fixed valve plate 132 can also seal the gap between the water-gas distribution valve plate 131 and the valve housing 11. For example, there are two fixed valve plates 132. The two fixed valve plates 132 are spaced apart along the axial direction of the valve housing 11. The water-gas distribution valve plate 131 is located between the two fixed valve plates 132 and is in close contact with the two fixed valve plates 132. In this way, the gap between the water-gas distribution valve plate 131 and the valve housing 11 can be further sealed, and the rotation of the water-gas distribution valve plate 131 can also be stably guaranteed.

[0163] The fixed valve plate 132 has a water inlet 132a communicating with the valve water inlet 112a and an air inlet 132b communicating with the valve air inlet 113a in the middle. When the water-air distribution valve plate 131 is in the blocked position, the third flow port 131a is connected to the water inlet 132a and the water-air distribution valve plate 131 blocks the air inlet 132b; when the water-air distribution valve plate 131 is in the ventilated position, the third flow port 131a is connected to the air inlet 132b and / or the water inlet 132a.

[0164] This configuration, with its pre-designed and fixedly positioned water inlet 132a and air inlet 132b, defines the fluid path. The fixed valve plate 132 and the water-air distribution valve plate 131 work closely together, and their relative movement opens and closes the water and air paths, thereby precisely distributing the washing water or drying airflow to the corresponding spray arms 74 to perform washing or drying tasks. Furthermore, the water-air distribution valve plate 131 abuts against the surface of the fixed valve plate 132, preventing direct wear on the valve housing 11 when the water-air distribution valve plate 131 rotates, thus protecting the valve housing 11. Additionally, the fixed valve plate 132 is replaceable, facilitating subsequent inspection and maintenance.

[0165] Please refer to Figure 1 as well as Figure 6-8It should be noted that the fixed valve plates 132 are all sealed to the valve housing 11 through the valve plate sealing ring 16 to achieve a seal. The water and air distribution valve plate 131 and the fixed valve plate 132 can be made of ceramic material. Ceramic material has extremely high hardness, which can resist the wear caused by fine particles (scale, impurities) in water, and has a very long service life. Moreover, the ceramic surface is very smooth. After precision polishing, the coefficient of friction is low, the operation is smooth, and the required driving torque is small. In addition, ceramic is almost unaffected by changes in temperature and humidity, does not expand and contract with heat, and can maintain a very high flatness for a long time, ensuring a long-lasting and stable sealing effect. It has high corrosion resistance and is completely immune to the acid and alkali corrosion of detergent, high-temperature water and food residue in the dishwasher 100. It will not rust or degrade.

[0166] The water and air distribution valve plate 131 and the fixed valve plate 132 can also be made of Teflon material. Teflon material has self-lubricating properties, which means that even in the case of insufficient water lubrication, it can maintain low friction and smooth rotation, effectively preventing jamming and abnormal noise. Moreover, it has high corrosion resistance and is completely immune to the acid and alkali corrosion of detergent, high-temperature water and food residue in the dishwasher 100, and will not rust or degrade; it has good flexibility, and compared with ceramic, Teflon has a certain degree of flexibility, which can better tolerate the minor unevenness defects of the fixed valve plate 132 and valve body, and ensure a seal through slight deformation; it is non-stick, making it less prone to being adhered to by scale or other impurities, and has a self-cleaning effect.

[0167] The water-air distribution valve plate 131 and the fixed valve plate 132 can also be made of metal or plastic, and their surfaces are coated with a layer of rubber, which greatly improves the sealing performance of the water-air distribution valve plate 131 and the fixed valve plate 132, effectively preventing internal leakage. Moreover, the rubber material can effectively absorb vibration and impact, and operates quietly with almost no clicking noise from the collision of metal or hard plastic. In addition, the rubber coating gives the water-air distribution valve plate 131 and the fixed valve plate good shock absorption properties, which can well tolerate the vibration and water hammer effect of the water circuit system.

[0168] Please refer to Figure 1 as well as Figure 6-8 In some embodiments, the diversion port 11a can be formed by a water cup 72, with the water-air distribution valve 10 connected to the water cup 72. The top of the valve housing 11 is sealed to the water cup 72, and the rotating diversion valve plate 141 seals against the water cup 72, so that the fourth flow port 141a is connected to the target diversion port 11a during rotation. This configuration allows the water cup 72 and the water-air distribution valve 10 to be assembled together in a modular fashion, facilitating installation within the dishwasher 100. It also helps save internal space in the dishwasher 100 and simplifies the arrangement of connecting pipes, thereby improving the utilization rate of the dishwasher 100's internal space.

[0169] Please refer to Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 6 as well as Figure 9 In one embodiment, the water-air distribution valve 10 further includes a drive structure 20A, which is connected to the water-air switching component 13 and the fluid distribution component 14.

[0170] In the washing state, the drive structure 20A drives the water-air switching component 13 to control the valve air inlet 113a to isolate it from the valve water inlet 112a and all the diversion ports 11a, so as to prevent washing water from entering the drying system 40A through the valve air inlet 113a. The drive fluid distribution component 14 controls the valve water inlet 112a to be switchably connected to at least one diversion port 11a, so that the washing water flows to the corresponding spray arm 74 and is sprayed out from the nozzle of the spray arm 74 to clean the tableware.

[0171] In the drying state, the drive structure 20A drives the water-air switching component 13 to control the valve air inlet 113a to connect with at least one diversion port 11a and / or the valve water inlet 112a, and drives the fluid distribution component 14 to control the valve air inlet 113a to switchably connect with at least one diversion port 11a. That is, the drive structure 20A drives the water-air switching component 13 and the fluid distribution component 14 to achieve three working modes to meet different drying requirements.

[0172] Please refer to Figure 1-13 In one specific embodiment, the drive structure 20A includes a first drive member, which is connected in a transmission manner to the water-air switching member 13 and the fluid distribution member 14.

[0173] In the washing state, the first drive unit rotates in the first direction to drive the water-air switching unit 13 to control the valve air inlet 113a to isolate the valve water inlet 112a and all the diversion ports 11a, so as to prevent the washing water from entering the drying system 40A through the valve air inlet 113a, and drive the fluid distribution unit 14 to control the valve water inlet 112a to switchably connect with at least one diversion port 11a, so that the washing water flows to the corresponding spray arm 74 and is sprayed out from the nozzle of the spray arm 74 to clean the tableware.

[0174] In the drying state, the first driving member rotates along the first direction to drive the water-air switching member 13 to control the air inlet 113a of the valve to connect with at least one diversion port 11a and / or the water inlet 112a of the valve, and drives the fluid distribution member 14 to control the air inlet 113a of the valve to switchably connect with at least one diversion port 11a. That is, the driving structure 20A drives the water-air switching member 13 and the fluid distribution member 14 to achieve three working modes to meet different drying requirements.

[0175] Please refer to Figure 1-13In another specific embodiment, the drive structure 20A includes a first drive member, which is connected in a transmission manner to the water-air switching member 13 and the fluid distribution member 14.

[0176] In the washing state, the first drive member rotates in the first direction to drive the water-air switching member 13 to control the valve air inlet 113a to isolate the valve water inlet 112a and all the diversion ports 11a, so as to prevent the washing water from entering the drying system 40A through the valve air inlet 113a. Then, the first drive member rotates in the second direction to drive the fluid distribution member 14 to control the valve water inlet 112a to switchably connect with at least one diversion port 11a, so that the washing water flows to the corresponding spray arm 74 and is sprayed out from the nozzle of the spray arm 74 to clean the tableware.

[0177] In the drying state, the first driving member rotates along the first direction to drive the water-air switching member 13 to control the air inlet 113a of the valve to connect with at least one diversion port 11a and / or the water inlet 112a of the valve. Then, the first driving member rotates along the second direction to drive the fluid distribution member 14 to control the air inlet 113a of the valve to switchably connect with at least one diversion port 11a. That is, the driving structure 20A drives the water-air switching member 13 and the fluid distribution member 14 to achieve three working modes to meet different drying requirements.

[0178] By setting the first driving component to drive the water-air switching component 13 and the fluid distribution component 14, the number of parts used in the dishwasher 100 can be reduced, thereby reducing the space occupied by other parts in the dishwasher 100, so that the inner drum 71 can be larger, thus accommodating more tableware, improving the cleaning efficiency of tableware, and improving the user experience.

[0179] Please refer to Figure 1-13 In another specific embodiment, the drive structure 20A includes a second drive member and a third drive member. The second drive member is drivenly connected to the water-air switching member 13, and the third drive member is drivenly connected to the fluid distribution member 14.

[0180] In the washing state, the second driving member drives the water-air switching member 13 to control the valve air inlet 113a to isolate the valve water inlet 112a and all the diversion ports 11a, so as to prevent the washing water from entering the drying system 40A through the valve air inlet 113a. The third driving member drives the fluid distribution member 14 to control the valve water inlet 112a to be switchably connected to at least one diversion port 11a, so that the washing water flows to the corresponding spray arm 74 and is sprayed out from the nozzle of the spray arm 74 to clean the tableware.

[0181] In the drying state, the second driving element drives the water-air switching element 13 to control the air inlet 113a of the valve to connect with at least one diversion port 11a and / or the water inlet 112a of the valve. The third driving element drives the fluid distribution element 14 to control the air inlet 113a of the valve to switchably connect with at least one diversion port 11a. That is, the second driving element drives the water-air switching element to operate, and the third driving element drives the fluid distribution element 14 to operate, so as to realize three working modes to meet different drying requirements.

[0182] By driving the water-air switching component 13 with the second driving component and driving the fluid distribution component 14 with the third driving component, the movements of the water-air switching component 13 and the fluid distribution component 14 can be made independent of each other, reducing the probability of mutual interference between the water-air switching component 13 and the fluid distribution component 14. Furthermore, since the second driving component and the third driving component can receive driving signals respectively, the control difficulty can be reduced and the stability of driving the water-air switching component 13 and the fluid distribution component 14 can be improved.

[0183] Please refer to Figure 1-13 It is understood that the first driving element, the second driving element, and the third driving element are, but are not limited to, at least one of a linear motor, an electric actuator, a rotary motor, and a rotary cylinder. In other embodiments, the first driving element, the second driving element, and the third driving element may also be in other forms. In the embodiments of this application, the specific forms of the first driving element, the second driving element, and the third driving element are not limited.

[0184] Please refer to Figure 1 as well as Figure 6-8 In one embodiment, when the water-gas switching component 13 includes a water-gas distribution valve plate 131, which is disposed inside the valve housing 11 and rotatably connected to the valve housing 11; and the fluid distribution component 14 includes a rotating diverting valve plate 141, which is disposed inside the valve housing 11 and rotatably connected to the valve housing 11, and the water-gas distribution valve plate 131 and the rotating diverting valve plate 141 are driven by the first driving component respectively, in order to facilitate the first driving component to drive the water-gas distribution valve plate 131 and the rotating diverting valve plate 141 respectively, the water-gas distribution valve 10 further includes a one-way transmission mechanism 33, which is drivenly connected to both the water-gas distribution valve plate 131 and the rotating diverting valve plate 141, and is also drivenly connected to the output shaft of the first driving component.

[0185] In the washing state, the first drive unit drives the water and air distribution valve plate 131 to rotate in the first direction through the one-way transmission mechanism 33, so as to control the valve air inlet 113a to be isolated from the valve water inlet 112a and all the diversion ports 11a, so as to prevent the washing water from entering the drying system 40A through the valve air inlet 113a. Then, the first drive unit drives the rotating diversion valve plate 141 to rotate in the second direction through the one-way transmission mechanism 33, so as to control the valve water inlet 112a to be switchably connected to at least one diversion port 11a when the water and air distribution valve plate 131 stops rotating, so that the washing water flows to the corresponding spray arm 74 and is sprayed out from the nozzle of the spray arm 74 to clean the tableware.

[0186] In the drying state, the first driving member drives the water-air distribution valve plate 131 to rotate in the first direction through the one-way transmission mechanism 33, so as to control the valve air inlet 113a to connect with at least one diversion port 11a and / or the valve water inlet 112a. Then, the first driving member drives the rotating diversion valve plate 141 to rotate in the second direction through the one-way transmission mechanism 33, so as to control the valve air inlet 113a to switchably connect with at least one diversion port 11a when the water-air distribution valve plate 131 stops rotating, so as to realize three working modes and meet different drying needs.

[0187] It is understood that the one-way transmission mechanism 33 includes at least one of a ratchet transmission mechanism and a one-way bearing transmission mechanism. In other embodiments, the one-way transmission mechanism 33 may also take other forms. In the embodiments of this application, the specific form of the one-way transmission mechanism 33 is not limited.

[0188] Please refer to Figure 1 as well as Figure 6-8 In one specific embodiment, the one-way transmission mechanism 33 includes a first one-way transmission member connected to the water-air distribution valve plate 131 and a second one-way transmission member connected to the rotating diversion valve plate 141. Both the first and second one-way transmission members are connected to the drive structure 20A. In the washing state, the drive structure 20A drives the water-air distribution valve plate 131 to rotate via the first one-way transmission member, thereby controlling the isolation between the valve air inlet 113a and the valve water inlet 112a and all diversion ports 11a. Then, the drive structure 20A drives the rotating diversion valve plate 141 via the second one-way transmission member. The valve inlet 112a is switched to be connected to at least one branch port 11a when the water-air distribution valve plate 131 stops rotating. In the drying state, the drive structure 20A drives the water-air distribution valve plate 131 to rotate via the first one-way transmission member, so as to control the valve air inlet 113a to be connected to at least one branch port 11a and / or the valve water inlet 112a. Then, the drive structure 20A drives the rotating branch valve plate 141 to rotate via the second one-way transmission member, so as to control the valve air inlet 113a to be switched to be connected to at least one branch port 11a when the water-air distribution valve plate 131 stops rotating.

[0189] In other embodiments, the drive structure 20A may also be disposed outside the water-air distribution valve 10. In the embodiments of this application, there is no specific limitation on the placement of the drive structure 20A.

[0190] Please refer to Figure 1 In one embodiment, the drying system 40A includes a duct housing 60, a fan 40, and a heating device 50. The duct housing 60 has an air duct 60a, an air duct inlet 60b, and an air duct outlet 60c. The air duct outlet 60c is connected to the valve inlet 113a. The fan 40 is disposed in the air duct 60a and is used to drive the air in the air duct 60a to move from the air duct inlet 60b to the air duct outlet 60c. The heating device 50 is at least partially disposed in the air duct 60a and is used to heat the air flowing through the heating device 50, thereby enabling the delivery of drying airflow to the moisture distribution valve when the dishwasher 100 is in the drying state.

[0191] It is understandable that the fan 40 can be a centrifugal fan 40 or an axial fan 40, capable of driving airflow.

[0192] Please refer to Figure 1 In one specific embodiment, the air inlet 60b of the air duct can be connected to the outside air. At this time, the drying system 40A is an external circulation system, which can draw air from the outside through the air inlet 60b, heat the air, and then deliver it to the water vapor distribution valve.

[0193] Please refer to Figure 14 In another specific embodiment, the inner liner 71 has a circulating air vent 71c, and the air duct inlet 60b is connected to the circulating air vent 71c. In this case, the drying system 40A is an internal circulation system, which can draw air from the washing chamber 71a through the air duct inlet 60b, heat the air, and then deliver it to the water vapor distribution valve.

[0194] Understandably, the inner liner 71 also has a vent 71d, which is connected to the outside, so that the washing chamber 71a can be connected to the outside air through the vent 71d.

[0195] In this embodiment of the application, the drying system 40A can be an internal circulation system (such as...) Figure 14 ) or external circulation system (such as Figure 1 In this embodiment of the application, no specific restrictions are imposed on this.

[0196] Please refer to Figure 1 and Figure 14In one specific embodiment, the heating device 50 includes a condenser, an evaporator, a medium transmission pipeline, a throttling device, and a compressor. The condenser is disposed within the air duct 60a; the evaporator is disposed within the air duct 60a; the medium transmission pipeline is connected to the condenser and the evaporator; the throttling device is disposed on the medium transmission pipeline; and the compressor is connected to the condenser and the evaporator through the medium transmission pipeline to form a heat pump system with the condenser and the evaporator. A refrigerant is disposed within the heat pump system.

[0197] The working principle of a heat pump system is as follows: The compressor draws in a low-pressure gaseous refrigerant and compresses it into a high-pressure state before discharging it. The discharged high-pressure refrigerant enters the condenser, where it transfers heat to the airflow, causing it to condense into a high-pressure liquid. The high-pressure liquid refrigerant then flows through a throttling device to reduce pressure, becoming a low-pressure, low-temperature gas-liquid two-phase mixture that enters the evaporator. The refrigerant in the evaporator absorbs heat from the airflow, becoming a low-pressure gas. This low-pressure gaseous refrigerant is then drawn back into the compressor. This cycle repeats, achieving heat exchange. In other words, the evaporator cools and dehumidifies the humid airflow from the washing chamber 71a, forming a dry, cool airflow. The condenser heats the dry, cool airflow into a dry, hot airflow, which then flows back into the washing chamber 71a. The dry, hot airflow returning to the washing chamber 71a comes into contact with the damp tableware, forming a humid, hot airflow again, completing one drying cycle. By repeatedly running this drying cycle, circulating airflow is continuously supplied to the washing chamber 71a to dry the tableware.

[0198] For example, both the evaporator and condenser can be finned tube heat exchangers. For example, throttling devices include, but are not limited to, electronic expansion valves.

[0199] Understandably, when the drying system 40A is in the external circulation system, only the condenser and the fan 40 can be set in the air duct 60a to reduce the space occupied by the air duct 60a, thereby reducing the impact on the air flow rate in the air duct 60a, and thus improving the conveying efficiency of the drying airflow to improve the drying efficiency.

[0200] Please refer to Figure 1 and Figure 14 In another specific embodiment, the heating device 50 includes an electric heating element, which is at least partially disposed within the air duct 60a and can also heat the air flowing through the electric heating element to form a drying airflow.

[0201] In other embodiments, the heating device 50 may also take other forms. In the embodiments of this application, the specific form of the heating device 50 is not limited.

[0202] Please refer to Figure 1 and Figure 14In one embodiment, the dishwasher 100 further includes a drain pipe 75, a drain pump 751, and a drain valve 752. The drain pipe 75 is connected to a water cup 72; the drain pump 751 is disposed on the drain pipe 75; and the drain valve 752 is disposed on the drain pipe 75. After the dishes are washed, the drain valve 752 can be controlled to open, and the drain pump 751 can be controlled to operate, so as to drain the wastewater in the water cup 72 and reduce the impact of wastewater on drying efficiency.

[0203] Please refer to Figure 1 and Figure 14 In one embodiment, the dishwasher 100 further includes a water inlet pipe 76 and a water inlet valve 761. The water inlet pipe 76 is connected to a water cup 72, and the water inlet valve 761 is disposed on the water inlet pipe 76. Before the washing begins, the water inlet valve 761 can be opened, and the water supply device can be controlled to fill the water cup 72 with water through the water inlet pipe 76 to ensure that there is enough water in the water cup 72 to meet the washing requirements.

[0204] It is understood that a water purification device may include sub-devices such as softening, filtering, heating, and a water storage tank. In other embodiments, the water purification device may also take other forms, such as a municipal water tap. In the embodiments of this application, the specific form of the water purification device is not limited.

[0205] In the relevant technical field, an overflow port 71b is provided near the bottom of the inner tank 71. The overflow port 71b is connected to the washing chamber 71a. When the washing water level in the washing chamber 71a is higher than the overflow port 71b, the washing water can flow out from the overflow port 71b. Since the water and air distribution valve 10 is usually located at the bottom of the inner tank, if the position of the water and air distribution valve 10 is lower than the overflow port 71b, or at least the position of the valve air inlet 113a is lower than the overflow port 71b, the washing water in the washing chamber 71a can easily flow back to the drying system 40A through the valve air inlet 113a, causing damage to the drying system 40A.

[0206] Please refer to Figure 1 and Figure 14 In one embodiment, at least one of the fan 40 and the heating device 50 is positioned above the overflow port 71b, thereby preventing the washing water from submerging the fan 40 and the heating device 50, thus preventing damage to the fan 40 and the heating device 50, and consequently enabling the dishwasher 100 to have a longer service life.

[0207] Please refer to Figure 15In another embodiment, the air duct housing 60 includes an air inlet section 61 connected to the fan 40, a hanging section 63 higher than the overflow port 71b, and an air outlet section 62 connected to the valve air inlet 113a. The air inlet section 61, the hanging section 63, and the air outlet section 62 are connected in sequence. The fan 40 and the heating device 50 can be installed in the hanging section 63, which can also prevent the washing water from submerging the fan 40 and the heating device 50, thereby preventing damage to the fan 40 and the heating device 50, and thus enabling the dishwasher 100 to have a longer service life.

[0208] Of course, the fan 40 and the heating device 50 can also be installed in the air inlet section 61, which can also prevent the washing water from submerging the fan 40 and the heating device 50. It can be understood that the fan 40 and the heating device 50 can also be installed in the hanging section 63 and the air inlet section 61, which can also prevent the washing water from submerging the fan 40 and the heating device 50, which will not be elaborated on here.

[0209] Please refer to Figure 1-13 This application also provides a control method for a dishwasher 100, including: Step S100: In the washing state, the valve core assembly 12 controls the valve air inlet 113a to be isolated from the valve water inlet 112a and all the branch ports 11a, and controls the valve water inlet 112a to be switchably connected to at least one branch port 11a.

[0210] In this embodiment, during the washing process, the controller controls the drive structure 20A to move the valve core assembly 12 to control the separation between the valve air inlet 113a, the valve water inlet 112a, and the diversion port 11a, thereby preventing washing water from entering the drying system 40A through the valve air inlet 113a, reducing the probability of damage to the drying system 40A, and thus enabling the drying system 40A to have a longer service life, so that the dishwasher 100 can have a longer service life.

[0211] The controller also controls the drive structure 20A to drive the valve core assembly 12 to operate, so as to control the valve inlet 112a to be switched to be connected to at least one diverter port 11a, so that the circulation pump 73 can deliver washing water to the corresponding spray arm 74 and spray it out from the nozzle to clean the tableware.

[0212] Step S200: In the drying state, the valve core assembly 12 controls the valve air inlet 113a to be switched to be connected to at least one branch port 11a, and / or, the control valve air inlet 113a is connected to the valve water inlet 112a.

[0213] In this embodiment, during the drying process, the controller can control the drive structure 20A to drive the valve core assembly 12 to operate, so as to control the valve air inlet 113a to be switched to be connected with at least one diverter port 11a, so that the drying system 40A can deliver the drying airflow to the corresponding spray arm 74 and spray it out through the nozzle of the spray arm 74 to dry the surface of the tableware and the washing water channel, thereby reducing the humidity of the tableware surface and the washing water channel, thereby reducing the probability of bacteria growing on the tableware surface and in the washing water channel, and also drying the inner surface of the washing chamber 71a, thereby reducing the probability of bacteria growing on the inner surface of the washing chamber 71a, thus providing reliable protection for the user's health.

[0214] The controller can also control the drive structure 20A to drive the valve core assembly 12 to connect the air inlet 113a and the water inlet 112a, so that the drying airflow generated by the drying system 40A can be blown to the water cup 72 through the water inlet 112a, so that the drying airflow can dry the water cup 72, thereby reducing the probability of bacterial growth in the water cup 72 and providing reliable protection for the user's health.

[0215] In this embodiment, the controller controls the drive structure 20A to drive the water and air distribution valve 10 to operate, so that the washing system and the drying system 40A can share the pipeline structure from the water and air distribution valve 10 to the spray arm 74. This reduces the pipeline structure inside the dishwasher 100, thereby reducing the space occupied by the pipeline structure inside the dishwasher 100. This allows the inner drum 71 to be larger, thus accommodating more tableware, improving the cleaning efficiency of tableware, and enhancing the user experience.

[0216] Furthermore, since the washing system and the drying system 40A can share the piping structure from the water and air distribution valve 10 to the spray arm 74, the dishwasher 100 can dry the washing water channel in the drying state, which can reduce the probability of bacteria growing in the washing water channel. It can also dry the water cup 72, which can reduce the probability of bacteria growing in the water cup 72, thus providing reliable protection for the user's health.

[0217] Furthermore, compared to the washing system and drying system 40A being set up independently, requiring separate control of two systems to switch the dishwasher 100 between washing and drying states, this application only needs to control the drive structure 20A through the controller to activate the water and air distribution valve 10, which enables the dishwasher 100 to switch between washing and drying states, thus simplifying the operation steps and improving control efficiency.

[0218] It is understood that when the controller controls the drive structure 20A to drive the valve core assembly 12, the valve core assembly 12 can move within the valve housing 11. Of course, the valve core assembly 12 can also rotate within the valve housing 11. In other embodiments, the valve core assembly 12 can also move and rotate within the valve housing 11, as detailed in the foregoing text, and will not be elaborated further here. The configuration of the drive structure 20A is also detailed in the foregoing text, and will not be elaborated further here.

[0219] Please refer to Figure 1-13 In one embodiment, step S100 includes: Step S110: Control the valve core assembly 12 to operate so that the valve air inlet 113a is isolated from the valve water inlet 112a and all the branch ports 11a.

[0220] In this embodiment, the controller controls the drive structure 20A to drive the valve core assembly 12 to control the separation between the valve air inlet 113a, the valve water inlet 112a, and the diversion port 11a, thereby preventing washing water from entering the drying system 40A through the valve air inlet 113a, reducing the probability of damage to the drying system 40A, and thus enabling the drying system 40A to have a longer service life, so that the dishwasher 100 can have a longer service life.

[0221] Step S120: Control the valve core assembly 12 to operate so that the valve inlet 112a is connected to at least one branch port 11a.

[0222] In this embodiment, the controller also controls the drive structure 20A to drive the valve core assembly 12 to operate, so as to control the valve inlet 112a to be switched to be connected to at least one diversion port 11a, so that the circulation pump 73 can deliver washing water to the corresponding spray arm 74 and spray it out from the nozzle to clean the tableware.

[0223] Please refer to Figure 1-13 In one embodiment, step S120 includes: Step S121: The control valve inlet 112a is connected to at least one branch port 11a in a preset sequence for a preset time.

[0224] In this embodiment of the application, the controller also controls the drive structure 20A to drive the valve core assembly 12 to move, so that the valve inlet 112a is connected to at least one diversion port 11a in a preset order for a preset time, so that the spray arm 74 corresponding to the diversion port 11a can continuously spray washing water for a preset time to clean the tableware.

[0225] For example, the washing process of the dishwasher 100 includes at least a pre-wash mode, a main wash mode, and a rinse mode. For different modes, the controller can control the drive structure 20A to drive the valve core assembly 12 to move so that the valve inlet 112a can be connected to the diversion port 11a. After maintaining the connection for a certain period of time, the controller controls the drive structure 20A to drive the valve core assembly 12 to switch the diversion port 11a in a preset order, thereby meeting different washing needs.

[0226] Taking the flow diversion port 11a of the valve housing 11 as an example, which may include an upper flow diversion port, a middle flow diversion port and a lower flow diversion port, and the multiple spray arms 74 may include an upper spray arm 741, a middle spray arm 742 and a lower spray arm 743, with the upper spray arm 741 connected to the upper flow diversion port, the middle spray arm 742 connected to the middle flow diversion port and the lower spray arm 743 connected to the lower flow diversion port, the preset sequence and preset duration involved in the washing process of the dishwasher 100 are described in detail.

[0227] In the pre-wash mode, the controller controls the drive structure 20A to drive the valve core assembly 12 to connect the upper diversion port with the valve inlet 112a. At the same time, the controller controls the circulation pump 73 to work, so as to pump the washing water in the water cup 72 to the upper spray arm 741 through the upper diversion port, and spray it out from the nozzle of the upper spray arm 741 for a first duration.

[0228] The controller continues to control the drive structure 20A to drive the valve core assembly 12 to operate, so as to control the connection between the middle diversion port and the valve inlet 112a. The circulation pump 73 can pump the washing water in the water cup 72 through the middle diversion port to the middle spray arm 742, and spray it out from the nozzle of the middle spray arm 742 for a second duration.

[0229] Finally, the controller controls the drive structure 20A to drive the valve core assembly 12 to operate, so as to control the lower diversion port to connect with the valve inlet 112a. The circulation pump 73 can pump the washing water in the water cup 72 through the lower diversion port to the lower spray arm 743, and spray it out from the nozzle of the lower spray arm 743 for a third duration, and the pre-wash mode ends.

[0230] For example, the nozzle of the upper spray arm 741 can be oriented towards the water cup 72, the nozzle of the middle spray arm 742 can be oriented away from the water cup 72, and the nozzle of the lower spray arm 743 can be oriented away from the water cup 72. Therefore, in the pre-wash mode of this application embodiment, spraying is first performed by the upper spray arm 741 and the middle spray arm 742, which can make full use of the influence of gravity on water so that water droplets can gradually adhere to the tableware in the dish rack 90 from top to bottom, thereby improving the pre-wash efficiency. Finally, since the nozzle orientation of the lower spray arm 743 is different from that of the upper spray arm 741 and the middle spray arm 742, water mist can be sprayed by the lower spray arm 743 so that the water mist can adhere to other areas of the tableware that the upper spray arm 741 and the middle spray arm 742 could not reach, thereby improving the pre-wash effect.

[0231] It is understood that the sub-steps involved in the above pre-washing mode can be executed repeatedly until the pre-washing requirements of the tableware are met. In the embodiments of this application, no specific limit is placed on the number of times the cycle is executed.

[0232] The controller controls the drive structure 20A to drive the valve core assembly 12 in a preset sequence during the pre-wash mode. This preset sequence can be adjusted according to the specific requirements of the pre-wash mode. In this embodiment, no specific restriction is placed on the preset sequence of the valve core assembly 12 in the pre-wash mode.

[0233] The preset duration in the pre-wash mode includes a first duration, a second duration, and a third duration. For example, the durations of the first, second, and third durations can be 5 seconds, 10 seconds, 25 seconds, 30 seconds, 60 seconds, etc. In other embodiments, the durations of the first, second, and third durations can also be other values. In this application embodiment, no specific limitation is placed on the durations of the first, second, and third durations.

[0234] In the main wash mode, the controller controls the drive structure 20A to drive the valve core assembly 12 to control the upper and lower diversion ports to connect with the valve inlet 112a. The circulation pump 73 can pump the washing water in the water cup 72 to the upper spray arm 741 through the upper and lower diversion ports, and to the lower spray arm 743 through the lower diversion port, and spray it out from the nozzle for a continuous duration of four hours.

[0235] Finally, the controller controls the drive structure 20A to drive the valve core assembly 12 to operate, so as to control the connection between the middle and lower diversion ports and the valve inlet 112a. The circulation pump 73 can pump the washing water in the water cup 72 to the middle spray arm 742 through the upper diversion port, and to the lower spray arm 743 through the lower diversion port, and spray it out from the nozzle for a continuous duration of five hours.

[0236] In the main wash mode, because the lower spray arm 743 is closer to the circulation pump 73, and the middle spray arm 742 to the upper spray arm 741 are progressively further away from the circulation pump 73, the water pressure at the nozzles gradually decreases, resulting in less rinsing force on the tableware surface. Therefore, by using the valve core assembly 12 to control the connection between the upper and lower diversion ports and the valve inlet 112a, the circulation pump 73 can pump the washing water in the water cup 72 to the upper spray arm 741 through the upper diversion port and to the lower spray arm 743 through the lower diversion port, and then spray it out from the nozzles, thereby increasing the rinsing force and thus improving the rinsing effect and cleaning quality. Similarly, using the middle and lower spray arms to spray water together can also increase the rinsing force and thus improve the rinsing effect and cleaning quality.

[0237] It is understood that the sub-steps involved in the above-mentioned main wash mode can be executed repeatedly until the main wash requirements of the tableware are met. In the embodiments of this application, no specific limit is placed on the number of times the cycle is executed.

[0238] The controller controls the drive structure 20A to drive the valve core assembly 12 in a preset sequence during the main wash mode. This preset sequence can be adjusted according to the specific requirements of the main wash mode. In this embodiment, no specific restriction is placed on the preset sequence of the valve core assembly 12 in the main wash mode.

[0239] The preset duration in the main wash mode includes a fourth duration and a fifth duration. For example, the duration of the fourth and fifth durations can be 30 seconds, 40 seconds, 60 seconds, 90 seconds, 100 seconds, etc. In other embodiments, the duration of the fourth and fifth durations can also be other values. In this application embodiment, there is no specific limitation on the duration of the fourth and fifth durations.

[0240] In the rinsing mode, the controller controls the drive structure 20A to drive the valve core assembly 12 to control the upper and lower diversion ports to connect with the valve inlet 112a. The circulation pump 73 can pump the washing water in the water cup 72 to the upper spray arm 741 through the upper diversion port and to the lower spray arm 743 through the lower diversion port, and spray it out from the nozzle for a continuous period of six hours to rinse the impurities and washing liquid remaining on the surface of the tableware.

[0241] The controller continues to control the drive structure 20A to drive the valve core assembly 12 to operate, so as to control the connection between the middle and lower diversion ports and the valve inlet 112a. The circulation pump 73 can pump the washing water in the water cup 72 to the middle spray arm 742 through the middle diversion port and to the lower spray arm 743 through the lower diversion port, and spray it out from the nozzle for a period of time to rinse the impurities and washing liquid remaining on the surface of the tableware.

[0242] The controller continues to control the drive structure 20A to drive the valve core assembly 12 to control the upper diversion port to connect with the valve inlet 112a. The circulation pump 73 can pump the washing water in the water cup 72 to the upper spray arm 741 through the upper diversion port and spray it out from the nozzle for eight hours to rinse the impurities and washing liquid remaining on the surface of the tableware.

[0243] The controller continues to control the drive structure 20A to drive the valve core assembly 12 to control the connection between the middle diversion port and the valve inlet 112a. The circulation pump 73 can pump the washing water in the water cup 72 through the middle diversion port to the middle spray arm 742 and spray it out from the nozzle for nine hours to rinse the impurities and washing liquid remaining on the surface of the tableware.

[0244] Finally, the controller controls the drive structure 20A to drive the valve core assembly 12 to connect the lower diversion port with the valve inlet 112a. The circulation pump 73 can pump the washing water in the water cup 72 through the lower diversion port to the lower spray arm 743 and spray it out from the nozzle for ten hours to rinse the impurities and washing liquid remaining on the surface of the tableware.

[0245] It is understood that the sub-steps involved in the above rinsing mode can be executed repeatedly until the rinsing requirements of the tableware are met. In the embodiments of this application, no specific limit is placed on the number of times the cycle is executed.

[0246] The controller controls the drive structure 20A to drive the valve core assembly 12 in a preset sequence during the rinsing mode. This preset sequence can be adjusted according to the specific requirements of the rinsing mode. In this embodiment, no specific restriction is placed on the preset sequence of the valve core assembly 12 in the rinsing mode.

[0247] In the rinsing mode, the preset duration includes a sixth, seventh, eighth, ninth, and tenth duration. For example, the duration of the sixth and seventh durations can be 30 seconds, 40 seconds, 60 seconds, 90 seconds, 100 seconds, etc. In other embodiments, the duration of the sixth and seventh durations can also be other values. In this application embodiment, the duration of the sixth and seventh durations is not specifically limited. For example, the duration of the eighth, ninth, and tenth durations can be 5 seconds, 10 seconds, 25 seconds, 30 seconds, 60 seconds, etc. In other embodiments, the duration of the eighth, ninth, and tenth durations can also be other values. In this application embodiment, the duration of the eighth, ninth, and tenth durations is not specifically limited.

[0248] Please refer to Figure 1-13 In one embodiment, step S200 includes: In step S210, the air inlet 113a of the control valve is switched to be connected to at least one branch port 11a in a preset sequence for a preset time, and the drying system 40A is controlled to operate with drying parameters.

[0249] In this embodiment, the controller controls the drive structure 20A to drive the valve core assembly 12 to operate, so as to control the valve air inlet 113a to be switched with at least one diversion port 11a in a preset sequence for a preset time. The controller also controls the drying system 40A to operate with drying parameters, so as to heat the air in the flow channel into a drying airflow, and enter the water-air distribution valve 10 through the valve air inlet 113a, and then enter the corresponding spray arm 74 through the diversion port 11a, and spray out from the nozzle of the spray arm 74, thereby drying the tableware.

[0250] Furthermore, the controller can drive the valve core assembly 12 to move through the drive structure 20A, so that the valve air inlet 113a can be switched to be connected to at least one diversion port 11a, thereby enabling the switching of the spray arm 74, so that the heat distribution in the washing chamber 71a is more uniform, thereby improving the drying efficiency.

[0251] Taking the flow divider 11a of valve housing 11 as an example, which may include an upper flow divider, a middle flow divider, and a lower flow divider, and the multiple spray arms 74 may include an upper spray arm 741, a middle spray arm 742, and a lower spray arm 743, with the upper spray arm 741 connected to the upper flow divider, the middle spray arm 742 connected to the middle flow divider, and the lower spray arm 743 connected to the lower flow divider, the preset sequence, preset duration, and drying parameters involved in the drying process of the dishwasher 100 are described in detail.

[0252] During the drying process, the controller controls the drive structure 20A to drive the valve core assembly 12 to connect the upper and middle diversion ports with the valve air inlet 113a. At this time, the drying system 40A can heat the air in the flow channel into a drying airflow, which enters the water-air distribution valve 10 through the valve air inlet 113a, enters the upper spray arm 741 through the upper diversion port, enters the middle spray arm 742 through the middle diversion port, and is sprayed out from the nozzles of the upper spray arm 741 and the middle spray arm 742 for a continuous duration of eleven hours, thereby drying the tableware.

[0253] Finally, the controller controls the drive structure 20A to drive the valve core assembly 12 to operate, so as to control the upper and lower diversion ports to connect with the valve air inlet 113a. At this time, the drying airflow enters the water and air distribution valve 10 through the valve air inlet 113a, then enters the upper spray arm 741 through the upper diversion port, and enters the lower spray arm 743 through the lower diversion port. It is then sprayed out from the nozzles of the upper spray arm 741 and the lower spray arm 743 for a continuous period of twelfth hour, thereby drying the tableware.

[0254] During the drying process, because the nozzles of the upper spray arm 741 and the middle spray arm 742 are positioned opposite each other, the drying airflows ejected simultaneously by both collide within the washing chamber 71a, increasing airflow turbulence within the washing chamber 71a. This allows the drying airflow to diffuse rapidly within the washing chamber 71a, thereby rapidly raising the temperature within the washing chamber 71a and improving the drying efficiency for the inner wall of the washing chamber 71a and the tableware. Similarly, controlling the upper spray arm 741 and the lower spray arm 743 to simultaneously eject air achieves the same effect, increasing airflow turbulence within the washing chamber 71a and improving the drying efficiency for the inner wall of the washing chamber 71a and the tableware.

[0255] It is understood that the sub-steps involved in the drying process described above can be executed repeatedly until the drying requirements of the tableware are met. In the embodiments of this application, no specific limit is placed on the number of times the process is repeated.

[0256] The controller controls the drive structure 20A to drive the valve core assembly 12 in a preset sequence during the drying process. This preset sequence can also be adjusted according to specific drying requirements. In this embodiment, no specific restrictions are placed on the preset sequence of the valve core assembly 12 during the drying process.

[0257] During the drying process, the preset time includes an eleventh time and a twelfth time. For example, the duration of the eleventh and twelfth time can be 5 minutes, 10 minutes, 20 minutes, 30 minutes, 60 minutes, etc. In other embodiments, the duration of the eleventh and twelfth time can also be other values. In this application embodiment, there is no specific limitation on the duration of the eleventh and twelfth time.

[0258] For example, drying parameters may include the power of the fan and the power of the heating device. It is understood that the power of the fan and the power of the heating device can vary or remain fixed during the drying process. This application embodiment does not impose specific limitations in this regard.

[0259] Please refer to Figure 1-13 In one embodiment, after step S210, the method further includes: Step S220: Control the valve core assembly 12 to operate, so that the valve air inlet 113a is connected to the valve water inlet 112a.

[0260] In this embodiment, the controller controls the drive structure 20A to drive the valve core assembly 12 to move, so that the valve air inlet 113a is connected to the valve water inlet 112a.

[0261] Step S230: Control the drying system 40A to operate with drying parameters so that the drying airflow can be blown towards the water cup 72 through the valve inlet 112a.

[0262] In this embodiment, the drying system 40A is controlled to operate with drying parameters so that the drying airflow can be blown towards the water cup 72 through the valve inlet 112a, thereby drying the water cup 72 and reducing the probability of bacterial growth inside the water cup 72, thus providing reliable protection for the user's health.

[0263] It is understood that in step S220, the operation of the valve core assembly 12 can either isolate the control valve air inlet 113a from the diversion port 11a, and connect the control valve air inlet 113a to the valve water inlet 112a; or it can simultaneously connect the control valve air inlet 113a to the diversion port 11a and the valve water inlet 112a, thereby providing drying airflow to both the spray arm 74 and the water cup 72, thus improving the drying efficiency of the tableware. In this embodiment, no specific limitations are imposed.

[0264] It is understood that the drying parameters of the drying system 40A used for drying the water cup can be the same as or different from the drying parameters of the drying system 40A used for drying the spray arm 74. In this embodiment, no specific limitation is made.

[0265] Please refer to Figure 1-13 In one embodiment, prior to step S220, the method further includes: Step S240: Control the drain valve 752 to open and control the drain pump 751 to work, so as to drain the water in the water cup 72.

[0266] In this embodiment of the application, before the drying airflow is delivered to the water cup 72, the controller first controls the drain valve 752 to open and controls the drain pump 751 to work, so as to drain the water in the water cup 72, thereby reducing the amount of water in the water cup 72, and thus improving the drying efficiency of the water cup 72 when the drying airflow is delivered to the water cup 72.

[0267] Please refer to Figure 1-13 In one embodiment, the control method further includes: Step S300: Obtain drying instructions, control the drying system 40A to operate with drying parameters according to the drying instructions, and control the valve core assembly 12 to provide drying airflow to the water cup and / or spray arm for a preset duration.

[0268] In this embodiment, after drying is completed, the controller can obtain drying instructions at intervals and control the drying system 40A to operate with drying parameters according to the drying instructions. The controller also controls the valve core assembly 12 to provide drying airflow to the water cup and / or spray arm for a preset duration, thereby keeping the washing chamber 71a dry. This ensures that the tableware in the washing chamber 71a and the inner wall of the washing chamber 71a remain dry, reducing the probability of bacterial growth and providing reliable protection for the user's health.

[0269] For example, the duration of the interval can be 24 hours, 36 hours, 72 hours, etc. In other embodiments, the duration of the interval can also be other values. In the embodiments of this application, there is no specific limitation on the duration of the interval.

[0270] For example, the preset duration can be 5 minutes, 10 minutes, 20 minutes, 30 minutes, 60 minutes, etc. In other embodiments, the preset duration can also be other values. In the embodiments of this application, there is no specific limitation on the duration of the preset duration.

[0271] Please refer to Figure 1-13 In one embodiment, the control method further includes: Step S400: Obtain the detected humidity value inside the washing chamber 71a.

[0272] In this embodiment of the application, after drying is completed, the controller can obtain the detected humidity value in the washing chamber 71a by setting a humidity sensor in the washing chamber 71a.

[0273] Step S500: When the detected humidity value is greater than the preset humidity value, a drying command is obtained. According to the drying command, the drying system 40A is controlled to work with drying parameters, and the valve core assembly 12 is controlled to provide drying airflow to the water cup and / or spray arm for a preset duration.

[0274] In this embodiment, when the detected humidity value is greater than the preset humidity value, the controller obtains a drying command and controls the drying system 40A to operate with drying parameters according to the drying command. The controller also controls the valve core assembly 12 to provide drying airflow to the water cup and / or spray arm for a preset duration, thereby keeping the washing chamber 71a dry. This ensures that the tableware in the washing chamber 71a and the inner wall of the washing chamber 71a remain dry, reducing the probability of bacterial growth and providing reliable protection for the user's health.

[0275] For example, the preset duration can be 5 minutes, 10 minutes, 20 minutes, 30 minutes, 60 minutes, etc. In other embodiments, the preset duration can also be other values. In the embodiments of this application, there is no specific limitation on the duration of the preset duration.

[0276] It is understood that steps S300-S500 above constitute the storage process of the dishwasher. The drying command obtained by the controller can be triggered by meeting certain conditions, such as meeting a specified interval or the detected humidity value being greater than a preset humidity value. It can also be a manual trigger signal from the user, such as the user operating the control panel or selecting the corresponding function through a mobile app. In this embodiment, the method by which the controller obtains the drying command is not specifically limited.

[0277] Understandably, in different products, the drying instruction can also be defined as operation instructions such as drying, storage, deodorization, etc.

[0278] It is understood that the first duration, second duration, third duration, fourth duration, fifth duration, sixth duration, seventh duration, eighth duration, ninth duration, tenth duration, eleventh duration, twelfth duration, thirteenth duration, and fourteenth duration mentioned in the above scheme can all be preset durations, or they can be corresponding results calculated by the controller based on the detection data. In this embodiment of the application, no specific restrictions are imposed on this.

[0279] Understandably, the drying state can be triggered not only by the controller according to the program, but also manually by the user. For example, after manually washing the dishes, the user can place the dishes in the dish rack 90 and select to execute the drying function separately from the control panel of the dishwasher 100. In this case, the controller can only execute step S200 so that the dishwasher 100 only executes the drying program, thereby increasing the usage scenarios of the dishwasher 100 to meet the needs of different users.

[0280] Understandably, users can also select to perform the cleaning function separately from the control panel. In this case, the controller can only execute step S100 so that the dishwasher 100 only performs the cleaning program, thereby increasing the usage scenarios of the dishwasher 100 to meet the needs of different users.

[0281] In one embodiment, the dishwasher 100 further includes a memory and a processor, the memory being used to store executable program code; the processor being used to call and run the executable program code from the memory, causing the dishwasher 100 to perform the steps of the above method.

[0282] This application also provides a computer-readable storage medium that can store multiple program instructions. The program instructions are adapted to be loaded by a processor and executed as described in the above embodiments. The specific execution process is described in detail in the embodiments and will not be repeated here.

[0283] For example, storage media can refer to any entity or device capable of carrying computer program code, recording media, USB flash drives, portable hard drives, magnetic disks, optical disks, computer memory, read-only memory, random access memory, electrical carrier signals, telecommunication signals, and software distribution media, etc.

[0284] In the description of this application, it should be understood that if terms such as "upper," "lower," "left," and "right" indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings, they are only for the convenience of describing this application and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, the terms used to describe positional relationships in the accompanying drawings are only for illustrative purposes and should not be construed as limiting this application. For those skilled in the art, the specific meaning of the above terms can be understood according to the specific circumstances.

[0285] Furthermore, the terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as implying or suggesting relative importance or implicitly indicating the number of technical features indicated. Thus, a feature defined as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include one or more of that feature. In the description of this application, "multiple" means at least two, such as two, three, etc., unless otherwise explicitly specified.

[0286] In the description of this application, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," "joining," "fixing," etc., should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral part; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; they can refer to the internal communication of two components or the interaction between two components, unless otherwise expressly limited. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this application according to the specific circumstances.

[0287] It should be noted that when an element is referred to as being "fixed to" or "set on" another element, it can be directly on the other element or there may be an intervening element. When an element is considered to be "connected to" another element, it can be directly connected to the other element or there may be an intervening element. The terms "vertical," "horizontal," "upper," "lower," "left," "right," and similar expressions used herein are for illustrative purposes only and do not represent the only possible implementation.

[0288] The above description is merely a specific embodiment of this application, but the scope of protection of this application is not limited thereto. Any variations or substitutions that can be easily conceived by those skilled in the art within the scope of the technology disclosed in this application should be included within the scope of protection of this application. Therefore, the scope of protection of this application should be determined by the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A water-air distribution valve, characterized in that, Applied to a dishwasher, the dishwasher including multiple spray arms, the water / air distribution valve including: The valve housing has a water inlet for receiving washing water, an air inlet for receiving drying airflow, and multiple branch outlets for corresponding communication with the multiple spray arms; and The valve core assembly is movably disposed within the valve housing; In the washing state, the valve core assembly controls the valve air inlet to be isolated from the valve water inlet and all the branch ports, and controls the valve water inlet to be switchably connected to at least one of the branch ports; in the drying state, the valve core assembly controls the valve air inlet to be connected to the valve water inlet and / or controls the valve air inlet to be switchably connected to at least one of the branch ports.

2. The water-air distribution valve as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The valve core assembly moves and / or rotates within the valve housing.

3. The water-air distribution valve as described in claim 2, characterized in that, The valve core assembly is movably disposed within the valve housing in a direction away from or close to the valve inlet; or The valve core assembly is rotatably disposed within the valve housing; or The valve core assembly is movably disposed within the valve housing in a direction away from or close to the valve inlet, and the valve core assembly can also rotate about its own direction of movement; or The valve core assembly is rotatably disposed within the valve housing, and the valve core assembly is movable along its own rotational axis.

4. The water-air distribution valve as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The valve core assembly includes: A water-gas switching component is movably disposed within the valve housing; and A fluid distribution component is movably disposed within the valve housing; In the washing state, the water-air switching component is activated to control the valve air inlet to be isolated from the valve water inlet and all the branch ports, and the fluid distribution component is activated to control the valve water inlet to be switchably connected to at least one of the branch ports; in the drying state, the water-air switching component is activated to control the valve air inlet to be connected to at least one of the branch ports and / or the valve water inlet, and the fluid distribution component is activated to control the valve air inlet to be switchably connected to at least one of the branch ports.

5. The water-air distribution valve as described in claim 4, characterized in that, The water-gas switching component includes a first air-blocking component, which is movably disposed within the valve housing in a direction away from or near the valve inlet. The fluid distribution component includes a first diverting valve plate, which is movably disposed within the valve housing in a direction away from or near the valve inlet. The valve core assembly further includes: The first elastic element abuts against the first air-blocking element, causing the first air-blocking element to tend to move toward the valve inlet.

6. The water-air distribution valve as described in claim 4, characterized in that, The water-air switching component includes a second air-blocking component, which is movably disposed within the valve housing in a direction away from or near the valve inlet; the fluid distribution component includes a second diverting valve plate, which is rotatably disposed within the valve housing about the moving direction of the second air-blocking component; the valve core assembly further includes: The second elastic element abuts against the second air-blocking element, causing the second air-blocking element to tend to move toward the valve inlet.

7. The water-air distribution valve as described in claim 4, characterized in that, The water-gas switching component includes a water-gas distribution valve plate, which is disposed inside the valve housing and rotatably connected to the valve housing; the fluid distribution component includes a rotating diverter valve plate, which is disposed inside the valve housing and rotatably connected to the valve housing.

8. The water-air distribution valve as described in any one of claims 4-7, characterized in that, Also includes: The drive structure is connected to both the water-air switching component and the fluid distribution component.

9. The water-air distribution valve as described in claim 8, characterized in that, The driving structure includes: The first driving component is connected to both the water-air switching component and the fluid distribution component in a driving manner. In the washing state, the first driving member rotates along the first direction to drive the water-air switching member to control the valve air inlet to be isolated from the valve water inlet and all the branch ports, and drives the fluid distribution member to control the valve water inlet to be switchably connected to at least one of the branch ports; in the drying state, the first driving member rotates along the first direction to drive the water-air switching member to control the valve air inlet to be connected to at least one of the branch ports and / or the valve water inlet, and drives the fluid distribution member to control the valve air inlet to be switchably connected to at least one of the branch ports.

10. The water-air distribution valve as described in claim 8, characterized in that, The driving structure includes: The first driving component is connected in a driving manner to both the water-air switching component and the fluid distribution component; In the washing state, the first driving member rotates along a first direction to drive the water-air switching member to control the valve air inlet to be isolated from the valve water inlet and all the branch ports. Then, the first driving member rotates along a second direction to drive the fluid distribution member to control the valve water inlet to be switchably connected to at least one of the branch ports. In the drying state, the first driving member rotates along the first direction to drive the water-air switching member to control the valve air inlet to be connected to at least one of the branch ports and / or the valve water inlet. Then, the first driving member rotates along the second direction to drive the fluid distribution member to control the valve air inlet to be switchably connected to at least one of the branch ports.

11. The water-air distribution valve as described in claim 8, characterized in that, The driving structure includes: The second driving component is connected to the water-air switching component in a driving manner; and The third driving component is connected to the fluid distribution component in a driving connection.

12. The water-air distribution valve as described in claim 8, characterized in that, The water-gas switching component includes a water-gas distribution valve plate, which is disposed within the valve housing and rotatably connected to the valve housing; the fluid distribution component includes a rotating diverter valve plate, which is disposed within the valve housing and rotatably connected to the valve housing; the water-gas distribution valve further includes: The unidirectional transmission mechanism is connected to both the water-air distribution valve plate and the rotating diversion valve plate, and is also connected to the drive structure. In the washing state, the drive structure drives the water-air distribution valve to rotate in the first direction via the one-way transmission mechanism, thereby isolating the valve air inlet from the valve water inlet and all the branch ports. Then, the drive structure drives the rotating branch valve to rotate in the second direction via the one-way transmission mechanism, allowing the valve water inlet to be switched to connect with at least one of the branch ports, provided the water-air distribution valve stops rotating. In the drying state, the drive structure drives the water-air distribution valve to rotate in the first direction via the one-way transmission mechanism, thereby controlling the valve air inlet to connect with at least one of the branch ports and / or the valve water inlet. Then, the drive structure drives the rotating branch valve to rotate in the second direction via the one-way transmission mechanism, allowing the valve air inlet to be switched to connect with at least one of the branch ports, provided the water-air distribution valve stops rotating.

13. The water-air distribution valve as described in claim 8, characterized in that, The water-gas switching component includes a water-gas distribution valve plate, which is disposed within the valve housing and rotatably connected to the valve housing; the fluid distribution component includes a rotating diverter valve plate, which is disposed within the valve housing and rotatably connected to the valve housing; the water-gas distribution valve further includes: A one-way transmission mechanism includes a first one-way transmission component that is drivenly connected to the water-air distribution valve plate and a second one-way transmission component that is drivenly connected to the rotating diversion valve plate. Both the first one-way transmission component and the second one-way transmission component are drivenly connected to the drive structure. In the washing state, the drive structure drives the water-air distribution valve to rotate via the first one-way transmission member, thereby isolating the valve air inlet from the valve water inlet and all the branch ports. Then, the drive structure drives the rotating branch valve to rotate via the second one-way transmission member, allowing the valve water inlet to be switched to connect with at least one of the branch ports, provided the water-air distribution valve stops rotating. In the drying state, the drive structure drives the water-air distribution valve to rotate via the first one-way transmission member, thereby controlling the valve air inlet to connect with at least one of the branch ports and / or the valve water inlet. Then, the drive structure drives the rotating branch valve to rotate via the second one-way transmission member, allowing the valve air inlet to be switched to connect with at least one of the branch ports, provided the water-air distribution valve stops rotating.

14. A dishwasher, characterized in that, include: The water-air distribution valve as described in any one of claims 1-13; The inner liner has a washing chamber for accommodating tableware; A water cup is located below the inner liner and communicates with the washing chamber; A circulating pump, with its inlet end connected to the water cup and its outlet end connected to the valve inlet; Multiple spray arms are disposed within the washing chamber and are connected to each of the multiple diversion ports; and The drying system is connected to the air inlet of the valve and is used to deliver drying airflow to the water-air distribution valve.

15. The dishwasher as claimed in claim 14, characterized in that, The drying system includes: The air duct shell has an air duct, the air duct has an air duct inlet and an air duct outlet, and the air duct outlet is connected to the valve inlet; A fan, installed within the air duct, is used to drive air within the air duct from the air inlet to the air outlet; and A heating device, at least partially disposed within the air duct, is used to heat the air flowing through the heating device.

16. The dishwasher as claimed in claim 15, characterized in that, The air inlet of the air duct is connected to the outside air; or... The inner liner has a circulating air vent, and the air inlet of the air duct is connected to the circulating air vent.

17. The dishwasher as claimed in claim 15, characterized in that, The heating device includes a heat pump system, an electric heating element, or a semiconductor heating element.

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