Knob assembly and laundry treatment device
The integration of a metal ring with a patterned structure in the knob assembly addresses the unsatisfactory tactile feel of plastic knobs, improving user experience and reducing wear by leveraging the metal's weight and design, thus enhancing the durability of the component.
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- EP · EP
- Patent Type
- Applications
- Current Assignee / Owner
- WUXI MEIZHI ELECTRIC CO LTD
- Filing Date
- 2024-05-09
- Publication Date
- 2026-05-20
AI Technical Summary
The rotational tactile feel of existing plastic knobs in laundry treatment devices is unsatisfactory, leading to high frictional resistance and wear, which deteriorates the user experience and reduces the component's lifespan.
A metal ring with a patterned structure is integrated into the knob assembly, providing a substantial hand feel and enhanced tactile feedback through its weight and patterned design, reducing the need for frictional damping and minimizing wear.
The metal ring with a patterned structure enhances user experience by offering a substantial hand feel and reduces wear, extending the component's lifespan while maintaining structural integrity and aesthetic appeal.
Smart Images
Figure IMGAF001_ABST
Abstract
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION
[0001] The present application claims priority to the Chinese Patent Application No. 202311099177.7 filed on August 29, 2023, the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.TECHNICAL FIELD
[0002] The present application relates to the technical field of a laundry care device, and in particular relates to a knob assembly and a laundry treatment device.BACKGROUND
[0003] Taking the laundry treatment device as an example, a knob assembly is provided on the housing of the laundry treatment device in the related art. The knob assembly is usually a plastic component, and users can select the corresponding washing program by rotating the knob. However, the rotational tactile feel of the existing knob is unsatisfactory.SUMMARY
[0004] In view of this, embodiments of the present application aim to provide a knob assembly and a laundry treatment device capable of improving the rotational damping of the metal ring.
[0005] Embodiments of the present application provide a knob assembly, comprising: an electric control assembly; a metal ring and a transmission structure, the metal ring is directly or indirectly connected to the transmission structure, the transmission structure is configured to rotate with a rotation of the metal ring to trigger the electric control assembly to generate an electrical signal; an outer peripheral surface of the metal ring is provided with a patterned structure area, the patterned structure area is arranged in a circumferential direction of the metal ring, a ratio of a depth of a patterned structure of the patterned structure area to a maximum wall thickness of the metal ring is 0.03 to 0.5.
[0006] In some embodiments of the application, the ratio of the depth of the patterned structure to the maximum wall thickness of the metal ring is 0.06 to 0.3
[0007] In some embodiments of the application, the depth of the patterned structure is 0.2 mm to 1.0 mm, and the maximum wall thickness of the metal ring is 1.5 mm to 6 mm.
[0008] In some embodiments of the application, a coating is provided on a surface of the metal ring.
[0009] In some embodiments of the application, the metal ring is a zinc alloy component or an aluminum alloy component.
[0010] In some embodiments of the application, an outer diameter of the metal ring is 30 mm to 100 mm; and / or a weight of the metal ring is 20 g to 100 g.
[0011] In some embodiments of the application, a single patterned structure has a contact plane on a radially outward side of the metal ring, an area of the contact plane being 0.5 mm 2< to 1.5 mm 2< .
[0012] In some embodiments of the application, an area between a edge of the patterned structure area on at least one axial side and an axial end face of the metal ring has a vacant area without the patterned structure.
[0013] In some embodiments of the application, a chamfer structure is provided on an outer peripheral side of at least one axial end of the metal ring, the chamfer structure is located within the vacant area.
[0014] In some embodiments of the application, a ratio of an axial length of the patterned structure area to an axial length of the metal ring is 30% to 90%.
[0015] In some embodiments of the application, the knob assembly comprises a window cover, and the window cover is disposed inside the metal ring and maintains relatively stationary with respect to the electric control assembly.
[0016] The knob assembly comprises a display assembly, and the display assembly is disposed inside the metal ring and on a side of the window cover facing the electric control assembly, the display assembly is configured to display information, the information displayed by the display assembly is visible through the window cover.
[0017] In some embodiments of the application, the electric control assembly comprises a circuit board and an encoder electrically connected to the circuit board, the circuit board is disposed on one axial side of the metal ring, the encoder is disposed on a side of the circuit board facing the metal ring, the transmission structure is provided with a through hole, and the encoder is inserted in the through hole.
[0018] Embodiments of the present application provide a laundry treatment device comprising: a housing; a cylinder assembly disposed inside the housing; a control device; and the knob assembly according to any of the embodiments of the present application, the knob assembly is disposed on the housing, the electric control assembly is electrically connected to the control device, the control device is configured to select a corresponding washing program and / or adjust washing parameters according to an electrical signal generated by the electric control assembly.
[0019] In some embodiments of the application, the housing comprises a cabinet and a control panel disposed on the cabinet, a part of an area of the control panel is recessed toward an interior of the housing to form a recessed cavity, the electric control assembly is disposed in the recessed cavity, and the knob assembly covers the recessed cavity.
[0020] Compared with plastic components of the same size, the metal ring of the knob assembly in the embodiments of the present application has higher density and greater weight, which can provide a substantial hand feel and enhance the user's operating experience. Furthermore, substantial hand feel is obtained by virtue of the metal ring's own weight without the need for frictional damping, which reduces wear on the components and extends the service life of the knob assembly. The radial thickness of the metal ring endows the metal ring with an appropriate structural strength, so that the metal ring is less prone to deform during the machining of the patterned structure. The depth of the patterned structure makes the patterned structure have a better appearance and tactile feel, and the requirements for the structural strength of the metal ring are also met.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0021] FIG. 1 is a schematic view of a metal ring assembly according to an embodiment of the present application; FIG. 2 is a schematic view of the structure shown in FIG. 1 from another perspective; FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line A-A in FIG. 2; FIG. 4 is a schematic view of a metal ring according to an embodiment of the present application; FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of the structure shown in FIG. 4; FIG. 6 is an exploded view of the structure shown in FIG. 4; FIG. 7 is a partial enlarged view of area C in FIG. 6; FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of the structure shown in FIG. 6; FIG. 9 is a schematic view of the structure shown in FIG. 8 from another perspective; FIG. 10 is a schematic view of a transmission structure according to an embodiment of the present application; FIG. 11 is an assembly view of the metal ring assembly and the control panel according to an embodiment of the present application; FIG. 12 is a schematic view of the structure shown in FIG. 11 from another perspective; FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line B-B in FIG. 12. List of reference symbols
[0022] knob assembly 1; metal ring 111; accommodating groove 111a; spiral groove 111b; recess 111c; patterned structure area 1111; contact plane 1111a; chamfered structure 1112; first vacant area 111da; second vacant area 111db; connecting structure 112; connecting ring 1121; hook 1122; protrusion 11211; transmission structure 12; slot 12a; through hole 12b; electric control assembly 13; circuit board 131; encoder 132; window cover 14; display assembly 15; LED assembly 16; control panel 2; recessed cavity 2a; through hole 2b. DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0023] In order to make objectives, technical solutions and advantages of the application more clear, the application will be further elaborated below in combination with the accompanying drawings and embodiments. It should be understood that the specific embodiments described herein are only used to interpret the application instead of limiting the application.
[0024] Various specific technical features described in the specific embodiments may be combined in any suitable manner in the absence of contradiction. For example, combinations of different specific technical features may form different embodiments and technical solutions. To avoid unnecessary repetition, various possible combinations of the specific technical features in the embodiments of the present application are not separately described.
[0025] In the following description, the terms "first", "second" and the like merely serve to distinguish different objects, and do not indicate that the objects are identical or have any correlation. It should be understood that the directional descriptions, comprising "upper", "lower", "outer" and "inner", all refer to the orientations in the normal use state. The "left" and "right" directions refer to those as illustrated in the corresponding specific schematic views, and may or may not correspond to the left and right directions in the normal use state.
[0026] It should be noted that the terms "comprise", "comprise" or any other variants thereof are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion. A process, method, article or device that comprises a series of elements not only comprises such elements but also comprises other elements not expressly listed, or elements inherent to such process, method, article or device. Without further restrictions, an element defined by the phrase "comprising a..." does not exclude the presence of additional identical elements in the process, method, article or device that comprises the element. The term "a plurality of" means two or more.
[0027]
[0049] Embodiments of the present application provide a knob assembly 1. Refer to FIG. 1, FIG. 3 and FIG. 4; the knob assembly comprises an electric control assembly 13, a metal ring 111 and a transmission structure 12.
[0028]
[0050] The user can grip the metal ring 111 and drive it to rotate.
[0029]
[0051] The metal ring 111 is directly or indirectly connected to the transmission structure 12. The transmission structure 12 is configured to rotate following the rotation of the metal ring 111, so as to trigger the electric control assembly 13 to generate an electrical signal. That is to say, the transmission structure 12 is a passive component, and the rotation of the metal ring 111 will drive the transmission structure 12 to rotate. When the transmission structure 12 rotates following the rotation of the metal ring 111, it triggers the electric control assembly 13 to generate an electrical signal.
[0030]
[0052] In the related art, the knob is integrally made of plastic material, and a damping structure is provided at the rotation center of the knob to achieve damping feedback. However, the damping lever arm at the rotation center is relatively small, so a significant damping force needs to be applied to achieve damping feedback. In addition, the frictional resistance during the rotation of the knob is relatively high, which makes the components prone to wear. When the wear amount of the components reaches a certain level, the damping feedback will deteriorate or even disappear.
[0031]
[0053] Compared with plastic components of the same size, the metal ring 111 of the knob assembly 1 in the embodiments of the present application has higher density and greater weight, which can provide a substantial hand feel and enhance the user's operating experience. Furthermore, substantial hand feel is obtained by virtue of the metal ring's own weight without the need for frictional damping, which reduces wear on the components and extends the service life of the knob assembly 1.
[0032]
[0054] Referring to FIG. 6, an outer peripheral surface of the metal ring 111 is provided with a patterned structure area 1111 (e.g., knurling), which is arranged in the circumferential direction of the metal ring 111. In some embodiments, the arrangement of the patterned structure area 1111 in the circumferential direction of the metal ring 111 means that the patterned structure area extends circumferentially from a starting point of the metal ring 111 until it returns to the aforementioned starting point. That is, in this embodiment, the patterned structure area 1111 is continuous and is disposed on the entire outer peripheral surface of the metal ring 111. In other embodiments, the arrangement of the patterned structure area 1111 in the circumferential direction of the metal ring 111 may be discontinuous. For example, two or more discontinuous sections of the patterned structure area 1111 are disposed in the circumferential direction of the metal ring 111.
[0033]
[0055] It should be noted that the area where the patterned structure is located constitutes the patterned structure area 1111. The patterned structure refers to an uneven structure. There is no limitation on the process for processing the patterned structure. For example, a knurling process may be adopted to form knurling, which is the patterned structure in this example. The patterned structure can increase the frictional force between the user's hand and the metal ring 111, reduce the probability of finger slippage, enhance the hand feel, and also achieve a favorable aesthetic effect.
[0034]
[0056] The ratio of the depth of the patterned structure in the patterned structure area 1111 to the maximum wall thickness of the metal ring 111 is 0.03 to 0.5, for example, 0.03, 0.05, 0.08, 0.1, 0.2, 0.3, 0.4, or 0.5. The maximum wall thickness of the metal ring 111 refers to the thickness of the thickest part of the metal ring 111 in the radial direction.
[0035]
[0057] The depth of the patterned structure refers to the dimension of the patterned structure in the radial direction of the metal ring 111.
[0036]
[0058] The inventor has found that the radial thickness of the metal ring 111 in this embodiment can ensure that the metal ring 111 has appropriate structural strength and is less prone to deformation during the processing of the patterned structure. For example, in order to achieve a stronger frictional feel, it is common practice in the related art to increase the depth of the patterned area. However, the inventor has found that machining a patterned area with excessive depth requires higher processing pressure during the patterning process, which may lead to deformation of the metal ring. In addition, an increase in the depth of the pattern may cause a pricking sensation on the user's hand. Therefore, the inventor has found that a proper depth of the patterned structure can ensure favorable visual and tactile effects of the pattern, while also giving attention to the requirement for the structural strength of the metal ring.
[0037]
[0059] In some more preferred embodiments, the ratio of the depth of the patterned structure of the patterned structure area 1111 to the maximum wall thickness of the metal ring 111 is 0.06 to 0.3, for example, may be 0.06, 0.08, 0.1, 0.2, or 0.3.
[0038]
[0060] In one example, referring to FIG. 9, the depth of the patterned structure in the patterned structure area ranges from 0.2 mm to 1.0 mm, for example, may be 0.2 mm, 0.24 mm, 0.28 mm, 0.3 mm, 0.4 mm, 0.43 mm, 0.45 mm, 0.48 mm, 0.5 mm, 0.55 mm, 0.6 mm, 0.62 mm, 0.65 mm, 0.7 mm, 0.74 mm, 0.75 mm, 0.8 mm, 0.83 mm, 0.86 mm, 0.9 mm, 0.91 mm, 0.95 mm, or 1.0 mm. Furthermore, the maximum wall thickness of the metal ring ranges from 1.5 mm to 6 mm, for example, may be 1.5 mm, 1.8 mm, 2 mm, 2.2 mm, 2.5 mm, 3 mm, 3.3 mm, 3.5 mm, 4 mm, 4.5 mm, 5 mm, 5.5 mm, or 6 mm.
[0039]
[0061] In one example, referring to FIG. 7, a single patterned structure is provided with a contact plane 1111a on the radially outer side of the metal ring 111. The area of the contact plane 1111a ranges from 0.5 mm 2< to 1.5 mm 2< , for example, may be 0.5 mm 2< , 0.6 mm 2< , 0.7 mm 2< , 0.8 mm 2< , 0.9 mm 2< , 1.0 mm 2< , 1.1 mm 2< , 1.2 mm 2< , 1.3 mm 2< , 1.4 mm 2< , or 1.5 mm 2< . In this embodiment, the contact plane 111a has an appropriate area, which makes the entire patterned structure area 1111 relatively smooth, alleviates or even almost eliminates the pricking sensation, and enhances the user experience when the user touches the metal ring 111.
[0040]
[0062] In one example, a coating is provided on the surface of the metal ring 111. The coating has favorable glossiness, which enhances the aesthetic appearance of the metal ring. In some embodiments, the coating can also provide corrosion and rust resistance.
[0041]
[0063] There is no limitation on the material of the metal ring 111. For example, the metal ring 111 may be a zinc alloy component or an aluminum alloy component. That is to say, the material of the metal ring 111 may be zinc alloy or aluminum alloy. In this embodiment, zinc alloy and aluminum alloy have favorable machinability, which facilitates the machining of the patterned structure with the depth, and also provides appropriate structural strength, thus achieving favorable deformation resistance.
[0042]
[0064] In some more preferred embodiments, the metal ring 111 is a zinc alloy component. Zinc alloy has a relatively high density, enabling the metal ring 111 to achieve a substantial hand feel with appropriate weight.
[0043]
[0065] In one example, the weight of the metal ring 111 ranges from 20 g to 100 g, for instance, may be 20 g, 30 g, 40 g, 50 g, 60 g, 70 g, 80 g, 90 g, or 100 g. The weight of the metal ring 111 enables it to achieve a favorable substantial hand feel and be well-suited to ergonomic principles.
[0044]
[0066] In one example, referring to FIG. 2, the outer diameter D of the metal ring 111 ranges from 30 mm to 100 mm, i.e., 30 mm ≤ D ≤ 100 mm, for example, may be 30 mm, 40 mm, 50 mm, 60 mm, 70 mm, 80 mm, 90 mm, or 100 mm. This outer diameter range facilitates gripping by the human hand, complies with ergonomic principles, and enhances user experience.
[0045]
[0067] The area between the edge on at least one axial side of the patterned structure area 1111 and the axial end face of the metal ring 111 is provided with a vacant area without knurling (e.g., the first vacant area 111da and / or the second vacant area 111db described below). In this embodiment, during the processing of the patterned structure, the processing tool is kept at a certain distance from the axial end face of the metal ring 111, and no patterned structure is machined within this distance range (i.e., a vacant area is formed). This can exert a mechanical protection effect on the axial end of the metal ring 111 and reduce the probability of cracking or plastic deformation of the axial end of the metal ring 111. Furthermore, the vacant area can also reduce the risk of scratching the user's hand at the edges of the patterned structure area 1111.
[0046]
[0068] In one example, referring to FIG. 8, a chamfer structure 1112 is provided on the outer periphery of at least one axial end of the metal ring 111, and the chamfer structure 1112 is located within the vacant area. The chamfer structure 1112 renders the axial end of the metal ring 111 smoother, prevents the formation of sharp corners, and reduces the risk of scratching the user's hand.
[0047]
[0069] It should be noted that the vacant area may be provided on either axial side of the patterned structure area 1111. Alternatively, the vacant areas may be provided on both opposite axial sides of the patterned structure area 1111, which can better protect the metal ring 111 during processing as well as better protect the user's hand.
[0048]
[0070] In one example, referring to FIGS. 4 and 8, in the embodiment where vacant areas are provided on both opposite axial sides of the patterned structure area 1111, for ease of description, the vacant area located on the side of the patterned structure area 1111 away from the electric control assembly 13 is designated as the first vacant area 111da, and the vacant area on the other side is designated as the second vacant area 111db.
[0049]
[0071] The first vacant area 111da is located on the side close to the user.
[0050]
[0072] The axial dimensions of the first vacant area 111da and the second vacant area 111db may be the same or different.
[0051]
[0073] In some embodiments, referring to FIG. 9, the axial length L3 of the first vacant area 111da is greater than the axial length L4 of the second vacant area 111db. Since the second vacant area 111db is located the side away from the user, its axial length may be shorter; whereas the first vacant area 111da is close to the user, so its axial length may be longer to achieve a better hand feel and visual effect.
[0052]
[0074] In one example, referring to FIG. 9, the ratio of the axial length L1 of the patterned structure area 1111 to the axial length L2 of the metal ring 111 ranges from 30% to 90%, i.e., 30% ≤ L1 / L2 ≤ 90%, for example, may be 30%, 40%, 50%, 60%, 70%, 80%, or 90%. In this embodiment, the patterned structure area 1111 has a relatively long length. When the user grips the metal ring 111, they can come into contact with the patterned structure over a large area, which reduces the probability of slippage.
[0053]
[0075] In some preferred embodiments, 50% ≤ L1 / L2 ≤ 80%.
[0054]
[0076] In one example, the axial length L2 of the metal ring 111 ranges from 7 mm to 20 mm, for instance, may be 7 mm, 8 mm, 9 mm, 10 mm, 12 mm, 14 mm, 16 mm, 18 mm, or 20 mm. The axial length of the vacant area is greater than or equal to 1 mm; that is, the axial length of the vacant area on either side is greater than or equal to 1 mm. The axial length L1 of the patterned structure area 1111 is greater than or equal to than 5 mm. In this embodiment, the vacant area has an appropriate length, which also enables the patterned structure area 1111 to be spaced at an appropriate distance from the axial end faces of the metal ring 111. The length of the patterned structure area 1111 complies with ergonomic principles and facilitates gripping by human fingers.
[0055]
[0077] In some embodiments, the axial length L3 of the vacant area ranges from 1 mm to 3 mm, for example, may be 1 mm, 1.2 mm, 1.5 mm, 1.8 mm, 2 mm, 2.3 mm, 2.7 mm, or 3 mm. In this embodiment, the vacant area has an appropriate axial length, which facilitates protecting the user's hand.
[0056]
[0078] In some embodiments, the axial length L1 of the patterned structure area 1111 ranges from 5 mm to 17 mm, for example, may be 5 mm, 6 mm, 7 mm, 8 mm, 9 mm, 10 mm, 11 mm, 12 mm, 13 mm, 14 mm, 15 mm, 16 mm, or 17 mm. In this embodiment, the patterned structure area 1111 has an appropriate axial length, which facilitates gripping by the user and reduces the probability of slippage.
[0057]
[0079] The metal ring 111 may be directly or indirectly connected to the transmission structure 12.
[0058]
[0080] In some embodiments, with reference to FIGS. 4, 5 and 6, the knob assembly 1 comprises a connecting structure 112 disposed on the radially inner side of the metal ring 111, and the connecting structure 112 is a plastic part molded on the inner side of the metal ring 111. That is, the metal ring 111 and the connecting structure 112 are formed into one piece by injection mold. For example, during the manufacturing process, after the metal ring 111 is fabricated, the metal ring is placed into an injection mold, and molten resin is injected into the injection mold. After mold opening, the resin cools to form the aforementioned connecting structure 112, and the resin is bonded to the metal ring 111 without the need for additional fasteners.
[0059]
[0081] In this embodiment, thanks to such connection between the transmission structure 12 and the connecting structure 112, there is no need to machine a connecting structure 112 that meets the assembly accuracy requirements on the metal ring 111. This can reduce the manufacturing requirements for the metal ring 111, save materials and cut costs. It is only necessary to form the connecting structure 112 into the designed shape. Therefore, the knob assembly 1 according to the embodiment of the present application can balance manufacturing costs and processes while achieving a substantial hand feel.
[0060]
[0082] The connection manner between the connecting structure 112 and the transmission structure 12 is not limited.
[0061]
[0083] In one example, one of the transmission structure 12 and the connecting structure 112 is provided with a plurality of slots 12a (see FIG. 10), and the other is provided with a plurality of hooks 1122 (see FIG. 6). The plurality of hooks 1122 are arranged in the circumferential direction of the ring body 111, and the hooks 1122 are engaged in the slots 12a. For instance, in some embodiments, the transmission structure 12 is provided with the hooks 1122, and the connecting structure 112 is provided with the slots 12a. In other embodiments, the transmission structure 12 is provided with the slots 12a, and the connecting structure 112 is provided with the hooks 1122. In still other embodiments, the transmission structure 12 is provided with part of the hooks 1122 and part of the slots 12a, and the connecting structure 112 is provided with the other part of the hooks 1122 and the other part of the slots 12a. The hooks 1122 on the connecting structure 112 are engaged with the slots 12a on the transmission structure 12, and the slots 12a on the connecting structure 112 are engaged with the hooks 1122 on the transmission structure 12.
[0062]
[0084] In this embodiment, through the engagement of the hooks 1122 and the slots 12a, quick snap-fit connection can be achieved without the need for special tools, and the assembly is simple and fast.
[0063]
[0085] In some embodiments, where the ring body 111 and the connecting structure 112 are formed into one piece, with reference to FIGS. 6 and 8, the ring body 111 is provided with an accommodating groove 111a, and at least a portion of the connecting structure 112 is filled in the accommodating groove 111a. The accommodating groove 111a can increase the contact area and bonding strength between the plastic and the metal, and reduce the probability of axial disengagement between the connecting structure 112 and the ring body 111.
[0064]
[0086] The shape of the accommodating groove 111a is not limited.
[0065]
[0087] In one example, with reference to FIGS. 6 and 8, the accommodating groove 111a is an annular groove extending around the ring body 111; that is, the accommodating groove 111a is a closed loop, and the central angle corresponding to the accommodating groove 111a is 360°. The connecting structure 112 comprises a connecting ring 1121, and the connecting ring 1121 is filled in the annular groove. During the injection molding process, the molten resin poured into the accommodating groove 111a forms the connecting ring 1121 after cooling and solidification. In this embodiment, the structural form of the connecting ring 1121 can enhance the structural strength of the connecting structure 112, leading to higher reliability.
[0066]
[0088] It can be understood that when the connecting structure 112 is provided with the slots 12a, the slots 12a may be formed on the connecting ring 1121. When the connecting structure 112 is provided with the hooks 1122, each of the hooks 1122 is connected to the connecting ring 1121.
[0067]
[0089] In one example, with reference to FIGS. 6 and 8, the groove wall of the annular groove on one radially side of the ring body 111 is provided with the spiral groove 111b. The spiral groove 111b extends spirally in the direction surrounding the groove wall, and a portion of the connecting ring 1121 is filled in the spiral groove 111b. The spiral groove 111b can further enhance the injection bonding strength between plastic and metal and improve the reliability.
[0068]
[0090] It should be noted that the dimension of the spiral groove 111b in the axial direction of the ring body 111 is smaller than the dimension of the annular groove in the axial direction. For example, the dimension of the spiral groove 111b in the axial direction of the ring body 111 is 1 / 3 to 1 / 6 of the dimension of the annular groove in the axial direction.
[0069]
[0091] In one example, the dimension of the spiral groove 111b in the radial direction of the ring body 111 is smaller than the dimension of the annular groove in the radial direction, so as to reduce the impact of the spiral groove 111b on the structural strength of the ring body 111.
[0070]
[0092] In one example, with reference to FIG. 8, any of the groove walls of the annular groove is provided with at least one recess 111c, and at least a portion of the connecting ring 1121 is filled in the recess 111c. For instance, the axial side walls and / or radial side walls of the annular groove are provided with the recesses 111c. With reference to FIG. 6, the structure filled in the recess 111c forms the protrusion 11211, and the cooperation between the protrusion 11211 and the recess 111c can prevent the relative rotation between the connecting structure 112 and the ring body 111. It should be noted that during the injection molding process, the molten resin poured into the recess 111c can form the protrusion 11211 after cooling and solidification.
[0071]
[0093] The number of the recesses 111c is not limited. There may be one recess, or two or more recesses.
[0072]
[0094] In one example, with reference to FIGS. 1 and 3, the knob assembly 1 comprises a window cover 14 which is disposed inside the metal ring 111 and maintains a relatively stationary state with respective to the electric control assembly 13. That is, the metal ring 11 does not drive the window cover 14 to rotate, and there is relative movement between the metal ring 11 and the window cover 14 during the rotation of the metal ring 11.
[0073]
[0095] The material of the window cover 14 is not limited, for example, may be transparent plastic.
[0074]
[0096] In one example, with reference to FIG. 3, the knob assembly 1 comprises a display assembly 15. The display assembly 15 is disposed inside the metal ring 111, and on the side of the window cover 14 facing the electric control assembly 13. That is, the metal ring 111 surrounds the display assembly 15.
[0075]
[0097] The display assembly 15 is configured to display information. The information displayed by the display assembly 15 is visible through the window cover 14.
[0076]
[0098] The type of information displayed by the display assembly 15 is not limited. For example, it may comprise text, patterns, symbols and the like, and it is not limited herein.
[0077]
[0099] The type of the display assembly 15 is not limited. For example, it may be an OLED (Organic Light-Emitting Diode) assembly.
[0078]
[00100] In some embodiments, with reference to FIG. 3, the knob assembly 1 further comprises an LED assembly 16. The LED assembly 16 has at least one light source, and the portion of the window cover 14 corresponding to the light source of the LED assembly 16 may be pre-formed with text or patterns. When the light source is turned on, the corresponding text area or pattern area on the window cover 14 can be highlighted.
[0079]
[00101] The type of the electric control assembly 13 is not limited.
[0080]
[00102] In one example, with reference to FIG. 3, the electric control assembly 13 comprises a circuit board 131 and an encoder 132 electrically connected to the circuit board 131. The circuit board 131 is disposed on one axial side of the metal ring 111, and the encoder 132 is disposed on the side of the circuit board 131 facing the metal ring 111. Specifically, the encoder 132 is located between the circuit board 131 and the window cover 14.
[0081]
[00103] With reference to FIGS. 3 and 10, the transmission structure 12 has a through hole 12b, and the encoder 132 is inserted into the through hole 12b. In this way, when the transmission structure 12 rotates with the rotation of the metal ring 111, the transmission structure 12 can trigger the encoder 132 at different angles to generate different electrical signals according to the rotation angle of the metal ring 111.
[0082]
[00104] The encoder 132 may adopt any suitable structure in the prior art, and will not be described in detail herein.
[0083]
[00105] The application scenarios of the knob assembly 1 according to the embodiments of the present application are not limited, for example, it may be applied in household appliances.
[0084]
[00106] In the embodiments of the present application, the description is provided by taking the application of the knob assembly 1 to laundry treatment device as an example.
[0085]
[00107] The embodiments of the present application provide a laundry treatment device, which comprises a housing, a cylinder assembly, a control device and the knob assembly 1 according to any embodiment of the present application.
[0086]
[00108] The housing serves as an external component of the laundry treatment device.
[0087]
[00109] The cylinder assembly is disposed inside the housing. The cylinder assembly is provided with a laundry treatment chamber.
[0088]
[00110] The type of the laundry treatment device is not limited; for example, it may be a drum-type laundry treatment device, that is, the axis of the cylinder assembly is arranged substantially in the front-rear direction.
[0089]
[00111] The knob assembly 1 is disposed on the housing.
[0090]
[00112] The electric control assembly 13 is electrically connected to the control device, that is, the signal can be transmitted between the electric control assembly and the control device. The control device is configured to select a corresponding washing program and / or adjust washing parameters according to the electrical signal generated by the electric control assembly 13.
[0091]
[00113] In some embodiments, the laundry treatment device may be a dryer or a washer-dryer. In these embodiments, the knob assembly 1 is disposed on the housing, and the electric control assembly 13 is electrically connected to the control device, allowing signal transmission between the electric control assembly 13 and the control device. The control device is configured to select a corresponding drying program and / or adjust drying parameters according to the electrical signal generated by the electric control assembly 13.
[0092]
[00114] For example, the user selects the corresponding washing program and washing parameters by rotating the metal ring 111. Specifically, taking the selection of a washing program as an example, when the user rotates the metal ring 111, the electric control assembly 13 generates different electrical signals according to different rotation angles, and the different electrical signals correspond to different washing programs. The control device controls the laundry treatment device to enter the corresponding washing program according to the electrical signal.
[0093]
[00115] In one example, with reference to FIGS. 11, 12 and 13, the housing comprises a cabinet and a control panel 2 disposed on the cabinet. For example, the top side of the front plate of the cabinet is provided with a notch, and the control panel 2 is disposed in the notch.
[0094]
[00116] With reference to FIG. 13, a part of the area of the control panel 2 is recessed toward the interior of the housing to form a recessed cavity 2a. The electric control assembly 13 is disposed in the recessed cavity 2a, and the metal ring 111 covers the recessed cavity 2a. In other words, the projection area of the metal ring 111 on the surface of the control panel 2 covers the projection area of the recessed cavity 2a, such that the recessed cavity 2a is barely visible to the user.
[0095]
[00117] It can be understood that a through hole 2b is provided on the cavity wall of the recessed cavity 2a, for passage of the cables of the electric control assembly 13.
[0096]
[00118] In the description of the present application, the terms "one embodiment", "some embodiments", "example", "specific example", or "some examples" and the like mean that the specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described in connection with the embodiment or example are comprised in at least one embodiment or example of the present application. In the present application, the schematic descriptions of the above terms are not necessarily directed to the same embodiment or example. Furthermore, the described specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner in any one or more embodiments or examples. In addition, those skilled in the art may combine different embodiments or examples described in the present application and the features of different embodiments or examples without conflicting with each other.
[0097]
[00119] The foregoing is merely preferred embodiments of the present application and is not intended to limit the present application. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that various modifications and variations may be made to the present application. Any modification, equivalent replacement, improvement, etc., made within the spirit and principles of the present application shall fall within the scope of protection of the present application.
Claims
1. A knob assembly, comprising: an electric control assembly; a metal ring and a transmission structure, wherein the metal ring is directly or indirectly connected to the transmission structure, the transmission structure being configured to rotate with a rotation of the metal ring to trigger the electric control assembly to generate an electrical signal; wherein an outer peripheral surface of the metal ring is provided with a patterned structure area, the patterned structure area being arranged in a circumferential direction of the metal ring, a ratio of a depth of a patterned structure of the patterned structure area to a maximum wall thickness of the metal ring being 0.03 to 0.5.
2. The knob assembly according to claim 1, wherein the ratio of the depth of the patterned structure to the maximum wall thickness of the metal ring is 0.06 to 0.3.
3. The knob assembly according to claim 1, wherein the depth of the patterned structure is 0.2 mm to 1.0 mm, and the maximum wall thickness of the metal ring is 1.5 mm to 6 mm.
4. The knob assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein a coating is provided on a surface of the metal ring.
5. The knob assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the metal ring is a zinc alloy component or an aluminum alloy component.
6. The knob assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein an outer diameter of the metal ring is 30 mm to 100 mm; and / or a weight of the metal ring is 20 g to 100 g.
7. The knob assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein a single patterned structure has a contact plane on a radially outward side of the metal ring, an area of the contact plane being 0.5 mm2 to 1.5 mm2.
8. The knob assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein an area between an edge of the patterned structure area on at least one axial side and an axial end face of the metal ring has a vacant area without the patterned structure.
9. The knob assembly according to claim 8, wherein a chamfer structure is provided on an outer peripheral side of at least one axial end of the metal ring, the chamfer structure being located within the vacant area.
10. The knob assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein a ratio of an axial length of the patterned structure area to an axial length of the metal ring is 30% to 90%.
11. The knob assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the knob assembly comprises a window cover, wherein the window cover is disposed inside the metal ring and maintains relatively stationary with respect to the electric control assembly; the knob assembly comprises a display assembly, wherein the display assemblyis disposed inside the metal ring and on a side of the window cover facing the electric control assembly, the display assembly being configured to display information, the information displayed by the display assembly being visible through the window cover.
12. The knob assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the electric control assembly comprises a circuit board and an encoder electrically connected to the circuit board, the circuit board being disposed on one axial side of the metal ring, the encoder being disposed on a side of the circuit board facing the metal ring, the transmission structure being provided with a through hole wherein the encoder is inserted in the through hole.
13. A laundry treatment device, comprising: a housing; a cylinder assembly disposed inside the housing; a control device; and a knob assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the knob assembly is disposed on the housing, an electric control assembly being electrically connected to the control device, the control device being configured to select a corresponding washing program and / or adjust washing parameters according to an electrical signal generated by the electric control assembly.
14. The laundry treatment apparatus according to claim 13, wherein the housing comprises a cabinet and a control panel disposed on the cabinet, a part of an area of the control panel being recessed toward an interior of the housing to form a recessed cavity, wherein the electric control assembly is disposed in the recessed cavity, the knob assembly covering the recessed cavity.