Additive dispensing device, clothing processing equipment, and control method
The additive dispensing device addresses uneven mixing in washing machines by using multiple channels and control switching structures to ensure thorough mixing of additives with water intake, improving washing effectiveness.
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- JP · JP
- Patent Type
- Applications
- Current Assignee / Owner
- QINGDAO HAIER WASHING MASCH CO LTD
- Filing Date
- 2024-04-19
- Publication Date
- 2026-07-30
AI Technical Summary
Conventional washing additive input devices in washing machines result in uneven mixing of additives with water intake, leading to waste and reduced washing effectiveness.
An additive dispensing device with multiple supply channels, including a negative pressure supply channel and an injection channel, uses control switching structures to mix additives with water intake flow, ensuring thorough mixing and uniformity.
The device significantly improves the uniformity of the additive mixture by thoroughly mixing additives with intake water, reducing water usage and enhancing washing efficiency.
Smart Images

Figure 2026525386000001_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] The present invention belongs to the field of household washing electrical appliances, and specifically relates to a washing additive input device. In particular, it also relates to a clothing treatment equipment to which the aforementioned washing additive input device is applied, and further relates to a control method for the aforementioned clothing treatment equipment.
Background Art
[0002] As people's living standards continue to improve, washing machines have become an essential household appliance in family life. Conventional drum washing machines and fully automatic vortex washing machines usually have a washing additive input device installed in the washing tub of the washing machine for adding detergents. Generally, under the action of the water intake flow of the washing machine, the washing additive manually or automatically sucked up by the user in the washing additive input device is poured into the washing tub of the washing machine through the pipeline, thereby realizing the purpose of adding and using the washing additive. Note that the aforementioned washing additive may be any one or combination of conventional additives that can enhance the clothing treatment effect, such as detergents, fabric softeners, disinfectants, etc.
[0003] However, all conventional washing additive input devices first let the sucked-up washing additive flow out of the input device together with the water intake flow, and then flow into the washing tub through the pipeline. Thereby, the input effect of the washing additive is realized. As a result, the additives that enter the washing tub and are automatically input are not yet mixed with the water intake. Therefore, a large amount of the input additives remain between the washing tub and the water receiving tank, not only causing waste of the additives, but also affecting the washing effect.
[0004] In order to solve the aforementioned problems, the applicant previously proposed an input device that directly inputs the additive mixture into the washing tub after mixing the additive in the input device. However, in the conventional input device, the sucked-up additive cannot be sufficiently mixed with the water intake flow, and the uniformity of the ejected additive mixture is poor.
[0005] In view of the above, the present invention is proposed. [Overview of the Initiative]
[0006] The technical problem that the present invention aims to solve is to provide an additive input device that overcomes the shortcomings of the prior art and achieves the objective of forming a mixed liquid by drawing up the additive and then mixing it with the intake water flow. Another objective of the present invention is to provide an additive mixing device that achieves the objective of improving the uniformity of the additive mixed liquid.
[0007] To solve the aforementioned technical problems, the basic concepts of the technical ideas adopted by this invention are as follows.
[0008] The additive dispensing device comprises two supply channels from which water can be drawn individually, namely a negative pressure supply channel and an injection supply channel, and an injection channel connected to a storage chamber where the additive is stored. Furthermore, it is equipped with a control switching structure used to change the connection configuration of the injection channel. The injection channel connects the negative pressure supply channel and the storage chamber to each other, and uses the negative pressure generated by the water intake flow of the negative pressure supply channel to draw the additive from the storage chamber into the injection channel. Alternatively, both ends of the injection channel are connected to the injection supply channel, and a portion of the water intake flow of the injection supply channel flows into the injection channel, dispensing the drawn-up additive into the injection supply channel.
[0009] Furthermore, the inlet of the liquid injection channel is selectively connected to the negative pressure water supply channel and the upstream portion of the mixing section of the input water supply channel via a suction-cleaning three-way switching valve, and the outlet of the liquid injection channel is connected to the intake end of the mixing section of the input water supply channel. The suction-cleaning three-way switching valve is used to control the inlet of the liquid injection channel so that it is selectively connected to the negative pressure water supply channel and the upstream portion of the mixing section of the input water supply channel.
[0010] Furthermore, the central portion of the injection channel is connected to at least one storage chamber via an intake channel, and a check valve is provided on the intake channel to ensure that the liquid in the channel flows in only one direction, in the direction of the injection channel. Preferably, multiple storage chambers are each connected to the injection channel via an intake channel that corresponds to each other one-to-one. More preferably, each intake channel is provided with a control valve for controlling the opening and closing of the pipeline, and / or a switching valve is provided at the junction of each intake channel and the injection channel for switching the opening and closing of the pipeline, and is used to control each intake channel to selectively communicate with the injection channel.
[0011] Furthermore, it is equipped with a first liquid storage chamber and a second liquid storage chamber, and a three-way liquid absorption valve is connected in series on the liquid injection channel. The third opening of the three-way liquid absorption valve is connected to the first liquid storage chamber via the first liquid absorption channel, and the second liquid storage chamber is connected to the liquid injection channel downstream of the three-way liquid absorption valve via the second liquid absorption channel. A check valve is provided on the second liquid absorption channel to ensure that the liquid in the channel flows only in the direction of the liquid injection channel. The three-way liquid absorption valve is used to control the upstream liquid injection channel to communicate with the downstream liquid injection channel and the first liquid absorption channel in an alternative manner.
[0012] Furthermore, a temporary storage section is provided on the injection channel for storing additives drawn up into the injection channel. The temporary storage section is located in the upstream part of the injection channel, upstream of the connection point between the suction channel and the injection channel. A check valve is provided on the injection channel downstream of the connection point between the suction channel and the injection channel, and is used to ensure that the liquid passing through the injection channel flows only in the direction of the mixing section of the inlet water supply channel. Preferably, a flow meter is provided on the injection channel, located between the switching valve and the temporary storage section, and is used to measure the amount of liquid passing through the injection channel.
[0013] Furthermore, a negative pressure structure is connected in series to the negative pressure water supply channel. The negative pressure structure has a negative pressure port, and it can create negative pressure at the location of the negative pressure port by utilizing the water flow passing through it. The two inlets of the suction scrubbing three-way switching valve communicate with each other: the negative pressure port of the negative pressure structure provided on the negative pressure water supply channel and the pipeline section upstream of the mixing section provided on the input water supply channel.
[0014] Furthermore, a first intake valve is provided at the inlet end of the negative pressure water supply channel, and is used to control the opening and closing of the intake water flow in the negative pressure water supply channel. A second intake valve is provided at the inlet end of the input water supply channel, and is used to control the opening and closing of the intake water flow in the input water supply channel.
[0015] Furthermore, at least one mixing section is provided on the water inlet channel, and a mixing structure is provided within the mixing section for mixing the intake water flow and the additive. Preferably, multiple mixing sections are connected in series on the water inlet channel, and the mixing structure provided within each mixing section sequentially performs a mixing treatment on the intake water flow and the additive.
[0016] Furthermore, a foam generator is installed in the water inlet channel and is used to perform foaming treatment on the additive mixture. The aforementioned foam generator is installed in the water inlet channel section downstream of the mixing section.
[0017] Another object of the present invention is to provide a garment processing apparatus equipped with a washing cylinder, the garment processing apparatus being fitted with an additive dispensing device as described above. The inlets of the negative pressure water supply channel and the dispensing water supply channel are each controlled to be openable and closed and communicate with the water intake pipe of the washing machine, and the outlets of both the negative pressure water supply channel and the dispensing water supply channel are each connected to the washing cylinder.
[0018] Another object of the present invention is to provide a method for controlling the addition of additives to the aforementioned garment processing equipment. The method includes the steps of alternately performing the steps of: drawing up an additive and adding an additive. The step of drawing up the additive includes: the control switching structure being in a first connection configuration, connecting a negative pressure water supply channel and a storage chamber to each other via an injection channel, drawing water into the negative pressure water supply channel, and using the negative pressure generated by the water flow in the negative pressure water supply channel to draw up the additive in the storage chamber to the injection channel. The step of adding the additive includes: the control switching structure being in a second connection configuration, connecting both ends of the injection channel to an input water supply channel, drawing water into the input water supply channel, allowing a portion of the water flow in the input water supply channel to flow into the injection channel, adding the drawn-up additive to the input water supply channel, forming a mixture of the water and additive in the input water supply channel, and injecting it into the washing cylinder.
[0019] Furthermore, when the control switching structure is in the first connection configuration, the suction cleaning three-way switching valve connects the inlet of the liquid injection channel to the negative pressure port of the negative pressure structure provided on the negative pressure water supply channel, and connects the liquid storage chamber to the liquid injection channel. When the control switching structure is in the second connection configuration, the suction cleaning three-way switching valve connects the inlet of the liquid injection channel to the upstream portion of the mixing section of the water supply channel, and blocks the liquid storage chamber from the liquid injection channel.
[0020] By adopting the aforementioned technical concept, the present invention has the following beneficial effects compared to the prior art.
[0021] With the aforementioned configuration, the input device utilizes the intake water flow from different channels to gradually draw up, mix, and introduce the additives. This significantly improves the uniformity of the additive mixture by thoroughly mixing it with the intake water flowing into the input water channel at intervals.
[0022] With the above configuration, by using a part of the intake water flow after diversion in the input water supply channel to flush the liquid injection channel, the amount of water used to flush the additive is significantly reduced, the input flow rate of the additive is decreased, and the contact time between the additive and the intake water is increased, thereby achieving the effect of improving the mixing uniformity of the additive mixture. This achieves a remarkable technological advancement in improving the mixing uniformity of the additive mixture.
[0023] Moreover, the structure of the present invention is simple, the effect is remarkable, and it is suitable for widespread use.
[0024] The technical problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide an additive input device that overcomes the drawbacks of the prior art and realizes the purpose of improving the mixing uniformity of the additive mixture.
[0025] To solve the above technical problem, the basic concept of the technical idea adopted by the present invention is as follows.
[0026] An additive input device, comprising a liquid storage chamber containing an additive and an input water supply channel that communicates with the liquid storage chamber via a suction pump and uses the power provided by the pump to pump the additive to a temporary storage part of the input water supply channel, where it mixes with the passing intake water flow to form an additive mixture. A water diversion branch channel is connected to the input water supply channel in parallel with the temporary storage part.
[0027] Furthermore, a mixing part is provided in the downstream part of the input water supply channel, and the mixing part is located downstream of the temporary storage part. The outlet of the water diversion branch channel communicates with the input water supply channel downstream of the temporary storage part and upstream of the mixing part, and the inlet of the water diversion branch channel communicates with the input water supply channel upstream of the temporary storage part.
[0028] Furthermore, at the position where the water diversion branch channel and the input water supply channel communicate with each other, an adjustment valve for adjusting the intake water flow rate of the water diversion branch channel and / or the input water supply channel is provided.
[0029] Furthermore, the temporary storage unit is selectively communicable with a plurality of liquid storage chambers via a suction pump. Different additives are stored in each of the liquid storage chambers, and are used to selectively pump different additives to the temporary storage unit. Preferably, the plurality of liquid storage chambers are connected to the same temporary storage unit via one-to-one corresponding suction pumps. Preferably, the plurality of liquid storage chambers are each connected to the same switching valve structure, the switching valve is connected to the temporary storage unit via a suction pump, and the switching valve can selectively connect the plurality of liquid storage chambers to the temporary storage unit via the suction pump.
[0030] Furthermore, a water intake valve is provided at the water intake end of the input water supply waterway, and is used to control the opening and closing of the water intake water flow of the input water supply waterway. The inlet of the water branch path and the temporary storage unit communicate with each other via the input water supply waterway provided between them and the water intake valve.
[0031] Furthermore, at least one mixing unit is provided on the input water supply waterway, and a mixing structure for mixing the water intake water flow and the additive is provided in the mixing unit. The outlet of the water branch path communicates with the input water supply waterway between the mixing unit and the temporary storage unit. Preferably, a plurality of mixing units are connected in series on the input water supply waterway, and the mixing structures provided in each mixing unit perform mixing processes on the water intake water flow and the additive in sequence, and the outlet of the water branch path communicates with the inlet of the uppermost primary mixing unit.
[0032] Furthermore, a primary mixing section and a secondary mixing section are connected in series on the water inlet channel. The primary mixing section is equipped with a negative pressure suction pipe, which is connected in series on the water inlet channel. The negative pressure suction pipe has a negative pressure port, which is connected to the outlet of a water distribution channel, and the negative pressure suction pipe can generate negative pressure at the negative pressure port position by utilizing the water flow passing through its internal channel. The secondary mixing section is equipped with a circular chamber connected in series on the water inlet channel, and a coaxially mounted and freely rotatable impeller is provided inside the circular chamber. Preferably, a second water distribution channel is further provided in parallel with the water inlet channel, the inlet of which is connected to the water inlet channel between the primary mixing section and the temporary storage section, and the outlet of which communicates with the water inlet channel between the primary mixing section and the secondary mixing section.
[0033] Furthermore, a foam generator is provided on the water supply channel and is used to perform foaming treatment on the additive mixture. The aforementioned foam generator is provided on the water supply channel downstream of the mixing section. Preferably, the aforementioned foam generator is a negative pressure pipe connected in series on the water supply channel, or the aforementioned foam generator is an air pump that pressurizes air into the water supply channel.
[0034] Furthermore, it has multiple water supply channels, and the temporary storage section of each water supply channel is connected to at least one liquid storage chamber.
[0035] The present invention further discloses a garment processing apparatus equipped with a washing cylinder. The garment processing apparatus is fitted with an additive dispensing device as described above, the inlet of the dispensing water supply channel is controlled to be openable and closed and communicates with the water intake pipe of a washing machine, and the outlet of the dispensing water supply channel is communicated with the washing cylinder.
[0036] By adopting the aforementioned technical concept, the present invention has the following beneficial effects compared to the prior art.
[0037] By connecting a water diversion channel in parallel to the input water supply channel, it becomes possible to rinse and introduce the pressurized additive using only a portion of the intake water flow. This significantly reduces the flow velocity of the additive in the input water supply channel, increases the contact time between the additive and the intake water, ensures more thorough contact mixing, and greatly improves the uniformity of the additive mixture, resulting in a remarkable technological advancement.
[0038] Furthermore, the structure of the present invention is simple, its effects are remarkable, and it is suitable for widespread use.
[0039] The technical problem that this invention aims to solve is to provide an additive injection device that overcomes the shortcomings of the prior art and achieves the objective of simultaneously introducing and mixing the sucked-up additive by realizing the division of the intake water flow. Furthermore, this invention provides an injection device that achieves the objective of improving the mixing effect of the sucked-up additive by realizing that the intake water from two separate paths is mixed simultaneously with the additive.
[0040] To solve the aforementioned technical problems, the basic concepts of the technical ideas adopted by this invention are as follows.
[0041] This is an additive dispensing device, equipped with a water case having an intake chamber, the intake chambers communicating with the intake port of the dispensing device. Each intake chamber is further connected to the dispensing water supply channel via a first outlet opening, and to the liquid injection channel via a second outlet opening. The opening dimensions of the first outlet opening are larger than those of the second outlet opening.
[0042] Furthermore, the water case includes a water tank with an upper cover engaged with the top opening, and a water intake chamber is integrally provided inside the upper cover. The bottom of the water intake chamber communicates with the water intake port, and a first water outlet opening and a second water outlet opening are provided at the top of the water intake chamber. Preferably, the first water outlet opening and the second water outlet opening are located on opposite sides of the water intake chamber, spaced apart from each other.
[0043] Furthermore, the bottom wall of the portion of the intake chamber below the first outlet opening is higher than the bottom wall of the portion of the intake chamber below the second outlet opening. Preferably, the bottom wall of the intake chamber is divided into three portions located at different height planes, with the first outlet opening located above the corresponding portion of the highest height plane and the second outlet opening located above the corresponding portion of the lowest height plane.
[0044] Furthermore, the second outlet and the intake are located on the same side of the intake chamber and are arranged to intersect each other. The first outlet and the intake are provided on opposite sides of the intake chamber, and the first and second outlets are arranged to intersect each other.
[0045] Furthermore, the first outlet opening of the intake chamber communicates with the inlet of the main intake pipe, which is installed protruding from the top of the upper cover, and the outlet of the main intake pipe communicates with the inlet water supply channel. The second outlet opening of the intake chamber communicates with the inlet of the first connecting pipe, which is installed protruding from the top of the upper cover, and the outlet of the first connecting pipe communicates with the liquid injection channel. The diameter of the main intake pipe is larger than the diameter of the first connecting pipe.
[0046] Furthermore, a negative pressure suction pipe is provided within the main intake pipe. The inlet of the negative pressure suction pipe communicates with the first outlet opening, and the outlet communicates with the inlet water supply channel. A negative pressure port is provided on the negative pressure suction pipe, and the negative pressure port communicates with the liquid injection channel. The water flow passing through the negative pressure suction pipe can create a negative pressure at the negative pressure port, and this negative pressure causes both the additives drawn up into the liquid injection channel and the water flowing in from the second outlet opening to be drawn into the water flow passing through the main intake pipe.
[0047] Furthermore, the water inlet channel is for introducing the water supply flow. The liquid injection channel is connected to the storage chamber where the additives are stored, and the action of the suction structure on the inlet device draws the additives from the storage chamber into a temporary storage section installed on the liquid injection channel. The liquid injection channel is connected in parallel to at least a portion of the water inlet channel, and a portion of the water intake flow from the water inlet channel flows into the liquid injection channel, drawing up the additives and flowing them into the water inlet channel to form an additive mixture.
[0048] Furthermore, a negative pressure suction pipe is provided on the water inlet channel, and a negative pressure port is provided on the negative pressure suction pipe that can create negative pressure using the water flow passing through it. The outlet end of the liquid injection channel is in communication with the negative pressure port.
[0049] Furthermore, the internal flow path of the negative pressure suction pipe is a tapered pipe that gradually widens from the center towards both ends, and a negative pressure port is drilled in the pipe wall at the point where the pipe diameter is smallest in the center.
[0050] Another object of the present invention is to provide a garment processing apparatus equipped with a washing cylinder, the garment processing apparatus being fitted with an additive dispensing device as described above.
[0051] By adopting the aforementioned technical concept, the present invention has the following beneficial effects compared to the prior art.
[0052] With the aforementioned configuration, the intake water flow that is taken into the input device and used to rinse and introduce the additives is divided into two branches within the intake chamber. Each of the two branches rinses the additives in the temporary storage section, and the additives are mixed to form an additive mixture. Since the dimensions of the opening through which the rinsing water flow passes are smaller than the dimensions of the opening through which the mixing water flow passes, most of the intake water flow flows into the input water channel through the first outlet opening. This not only enables pressure reduction adjustment of the rinsing water flow but also guarantees the effect of drawing up and mixing the additives, significantly improving the overall input efficiency of the input device and the uniformity of the additive mixing.
[0053] Furthermore, the two intake water flows each come into contact with the upstream and downstream ends of the drawn-up additive, so that the additive is mixed with both water flows. This significantly improves the uniformity of the mixture of the additive solution that is added last, representing a remarkable technological advancement.
[0054] Furthermore, the structure of the present invention is simple, its effects are remarkable, and it is suitable for widespread use.
[0055] The technical problem that this invention aims to solve is to provide an additive dispensing device that overcomes the shortcomings of the prior art, reduces the intake water flow rate, and improves the mixing efficiency of the additive mixture. The present invention further provides an additive dispensing device that achieves the objective of enabling the dispensing device to use intake water flow from different paths to draw up, rinse, and dispense additives in each path.
[0056] To solve the aforementioned technical problems, the basic concepts of the technical ideas adopted by this invention are as follows.
[0057] This is an additive dispensing device equipped with two water supply channels from which water can be drawn individually. The negative pressure water supply channel has a negative pressure structure provided on the channel, which uses the water flow passing through it to create negative pressure at the negative pressure port. The input water supply channel has an upstream portion that communicates with a storage chamber where additives are stored, and a mixing section at the downstream portion for mixing the additives and the drawn water. The upstream portion of the input water supply channel is connected to the negative pressure port of the negative pressure water supply channel in a way that allows it to be opened and closed. The negative pressure created at the negative pressure port can draw the additives from the storage chamber into the input water supply channel, and the drawn-up additives are flowed into the mixing section together with at least a portion of the drawn water from the input water supply channel to form an additive mixture.
[0058] Furthermore, the aforementioned negative pressure structure may be any conventional structure capable of generating negative pressure, such as a Venturi tube.
[0059] Furthermore, the upstream portion of the water inlet channel has injection channels connected in parallel to each other. A temporary storage section is provided on the injection channels for temporarily storing the drawn-up additives. The injection channel portion upstream of the temporary storage section is in communication with the negative pressure port, and the injection channel portion downstream is in communication with the liquid storage chamber.
[0060] Furthermore, a control valve for opening and closing the pipeline is provided on the connecting pipeline that links the liquid injection channel and the negative pressure port. Upstream of the connection point between the liquid injection channel and the negative pressure port, a control valve for opening and closing the pipeline, or a check valve for preventing backflow to the upstream side of the liquid injection channel, is provided on the liquid injection channel.
[0061] Furthermore, the negative pressure port is connected to one end of the connecting pipeline, and the other end of the connecting pipeline is incorporated into the liquid injection channel via a two-position three-way valve. This is used to connect the upstream and downstream sides of the liquid injection channel to each other, or to switch the downstream side of the liquid injection channel to communicate with the negative pressure port via the connecting pipeline.
[0062] Furthermore, two liquid storage chambers are connected to the liquid injection channel downstream of the temporary storage section, and each of the two liquid storage chambers contains a different type of additive. The first liquid storage chamber is incorporated into the liquid injection channel via a two-position three-way valve, and the second liquid storage chamber is connected to the liquid injection channel downstream of the two-position three-way valve. By connecting the temporary storage section and the downstream side of the liquid injection channel, the system is used to switch between a state where the additive in the second liquid storage chamber is drawn up to the temporary storage section using negative pressure, or a state where the additive in the first liquid storage chamber is drawn up to the temporary storage section using negative pressure by connecting the temporary storage section and the first liquid storage chamber.
[0063] Furthermore, a negative pressure suction pipe is connected in series to the water inlet channel. A negative pressure port is provided on the negative pressure suction pipe, and the negative pressure suction pipe can create negative pressure at the port by utilizing the water flow passing through it. The negative pressure port communicates with the downstream end of the liquid injection channel, and the negative pressure created at the port is used to draw the additives that have been sucked up into the liquid injection channel back into the water inlet channel, where they are pre-mixed to form an additive mixture.
[0064] Furthermore, at least one mixing section is connected in series to the downstream side of the water intake channel, and a mixing structure is provided within the mixing section to mix the passing additive with the intake water flow. Preferably, the mixing section is a circular chamber, with an inlet and an outlet extending tangentially on opposite sides of the circular chamber, and an impeller is provided inside the circular chamber, which is installed coaxially with the center of the cylinder and can rotate freely around the axis.
[0065] Furthermore, a foam generator is provided downstream of the water supply channel, and the foam generator performs foaming treatment on the additive mixture passing through it. Preferably, the foam generator is an air pump capable of pressurizing air into the additive mixture in the channel, or a negative pressure pipe that automatically draws air into the additive mixture using the negative pressure generated by the passing mixture.
[0066] Another object of the present invention is to provide a garment processing apparatus equipped with a washing cylinder, the garment processing apparatus being fitted with an additive dispensing device as described above. The inlets of the negative pressure water supply channel and the dispensing water supply channel are each controlled to be openable and closed and communicate with the water intake pipe of the washing machine, and the outlets of both the negative pressure water supply channel and the dispensing water supply channel are each connected to the washing cylinder.
[0067] Another object of the present invention is to provide a method for controlling the addition of additives to the aforementioned garment processing equipment. In this method, when adding an additive, water is first drawn into a negative pressure water supply channel. The selected type of additive storage chamber and the addition water supply channel are connected to each other, and the negative pressure port of the negative pressure water supply channel is fluidly connected to the addition water supply channel. Negative pressure is created at the negative pressure port position using the water intake, and the negative pressure draws the additive in the selected storage chamber into the addition water supply channel. Subsequently, water is drawn into the addition water supply channel to block the storage chamber and the addition water supply channel, and the negative pressure port of the negative pressure water supply channel is blocked from the addition water supply channel. The drawn-up additive is then flowed into the mixing section to form an additive mixture, which is then discharged from the addition water supply channel and introduced into the washing cylinder.
[0068] Furthermore, the additive mixture formed in the mixing section is foamed by the action of a bubble generator, then discharged again through the water supply channel, and the foamed additive mixture is directly injected into the washing cylinder.
[0069] Furthermore, when adding additives, water is drawn in cyclically from the negative pressure water supply channel and from the input water supply channel.
[0070] By adopting the aforementioned technical concept, the present invention has the following beneficial effects compared to the prior art.
[0071] With the aforementioned configuration, the two different water supply channels of the dispensing device each have the function of providing suction force for the suction of the additive and the function of rinsing and dispensing the suctioned-up additive. In addition, the suctioned-up additive can be directly mixed with the intake water in the channel to form an additive mixture, or it can be directly sprayed into the washing cylinder. This achieves a significant technological advancement by using the additive mixture to directly spray-clean the clothes inside the cylinder.
[0072] Furthermore, the structure of the present invention is simple, its effects are remarkable, and it is suitable for widespread use.
[0073] The technical problem that this invention aims to solve is to overcome the shortcomings of the prior art and provide a washing machine filling device. In this filling device, an outside air circuit is installed inside the water case, and in this circuit, both ends of the outside air circuit communicate with the outside and with the outlet of the water case via the inside of the cylindrical assembly, respectively. This ensures that an overall path is established in which outside air is taken in, introduced into the cylindrical assembly, and discharged from inside the cylindrical assembly through the outlet on the front side of the water case. This ensures smooth airflow and improves the effectiveness of outside air exchange. Furthermore, an outlet exposed to the outside is installed on the front side of the water case, allowing the user to directly observe the outlet during the outside air circulation process and, by combining this with tactile sensation, understand the progress of the outside air exchange program, making the entire outside air exchange program more intuitive.
[0074] Another object of the present invention is to provide a washing machine.
[0075] To solve the aforementioned technical problems, the basic concept of the technical idea adopted by the present invention is as follows: The present invention provides a washing machine loading device comprising a water case with an outlet on the front side, and an outside air circuit installed inside the water case, one end of which communicates with the outside, and the other end which communicates with the outlet via the cylindrical assembly of the washing machine, and is used to introduce outside air into the cylindrical assembly of the washing machine and then discharge it from the outlet.
[0076] Furthermore, the outside air circuit includes an air duct used to draw outside air into the washing machine's cylinder assembly by the action of a pressure difference, with an intake fan connected to the first air outlet end and a first outlet end communicating with the washing machine's cylinder assembly, and an outlet air duct used to discharge the mixed air inside the washing machine's cylinder assembly from the water case outlet, with a second air outlet end communicating with the washing machine's cylinder assembly and a second outlet end communicating with the water case outlet.
[0077] Furthermore, a first air guide pipe is installed between the second outlet end and the air outlet, and an air guide cover is installed at the end of the first air guide pipe, which is inserted into the air outlet. The airflow area of the aforementioned air guide cover is larger than the airflow area of the first air guide pipe.
[0078] Furthermore, the airflow area of the air guide cover gradually increases from the first air guide pipe towards the outlet.
[0079] Furthermore, the outlet opening extends from the front to the rear of the water case, forming an insertion enclosure, and at least a portion of the insertion enclosure is installed protruding from the rear of the water case. The air guide cover is installed over the insertion enclosure.
[0080] Furthermore, a limiting plate extending to the rear is installed on the rear side of the water case. The limiting plate is located on the outer perimeter of the insertion enclosure and is installed parallel to at least a portion of the enclosure, forming a limiting opening used to prevent the air guide cover from falling off the insertion enclosure.
[0081] Furthermore, the air duct is installed at the bottom of the water case. A check valve is installed within the air duct, and the fluid communication direction is directed from the intake fan to the washing machine's cylinder assembly.
[0082] Furthermore, the air outlet duct is installed at the top of the water case, and there is a difference in height between the second air outlet end of the air outlet duct and the air outlet end of the air supply duct. A second vertical air guide pipe is installed between the second air outlet end of the air outlet duct and the cylindrical assembly of the washing machine, and preferably, the second air guide pipe is a bellows pipe.
[0083] Furthermore, a downward-facing recessed switching chamber is installed at the top of the water case. A first ventilation hole and a second ventilation hole are installed above the switching chamber, communicating with the discharge air passage and the ventilation air passage, respectively. A switching mechanism is installed inside the switching chamber, which can alternately switch between the first and second ventilation holes to enable fluid communication.
[0084] The present invention further provides a washing machine having a dispensing device as described above, wherein the dispensing device is installed with an exposed air outlet on the front panel.
[0085] By employing the aforementioned technical solutions, the present invention has the following beneficial effects compared to the prior art.
[0086] (1) The present invention ensures that an outside air circuit is installed inside the water case, and that both ends of the outside air circuit communicate with the outside and with the outlet via the inside of the cylindrical assembly, respectively, thereby guaranteeing that an overall path is established in which outside air is taken in, introduced into the cylindrical assembly, and discharged from inside the cylindrical assembly through the outlet on the front side of the water case. This ensures smooth airflow and improves the effectiveness of outside air exchange. Furthermore, an outlet exposed to the outside is installed on the front side of the water case, allowing the user to directly observe the outlet during the outside air circulation process, and by combining this with tactile sensation, the user can grasp the progress of the outside air exchange program, making the entire outside air exchange program more intuitive.
[0087] (2) In this invention, the air supply passage and the air outlet passage are integrally installed within the water case, so that the overall outside air flow path passes from the outside in order through the air supply passage, the opening of the cylindrical assembly, the bottom of the cylindrical assembly, and the air outlet passage before being discharged from the outlet of the water case, forming an outside air circulation system. This allows outside air to be effectively exchanged by passing through the entire cylindrical assembly before being discharged to the outside. If the air flow direction of the air outlet passage and the air supply passage are the same, the connection position between the entire outside air circuit and the outlet of the cylindrical assembly and water case can be optimized, reducing the number and length of hoses. This ensures smooth outside air flow and improves the effectiveness of outside air exchange.
[0088] (3) In the present invention, a first air guide pipe is installed between the second outlet end and the outlet, and an air guide cover is installed at the end of the first air guide pipe. Due to the area of the airflow region formed by the cavity inside the air guide cover and the airflow region of the first air guide pipe, the flow space suddenly increases when the air inside the cylindrical assembly is discharged through the air guide cover. This allows the air to diffuse to the outside over a wider area, ensuring smooth discharge.
[0089] (4) In the present invention, an air duct is installed at the bottom of the water case, so that outside air flows along the length of the water case from the bottom of the cylinder assembly toward the mouth of the cylinder. A check valve installed in the outside air flow path can ensure that outside air does not recirculate, or that air mixed inside the cylinder assembly does not recirculate and contaminate the air duct.
[0090] The technical problem that this invention aims to solve is to overcome the shortcomings of the prior art and provide a washing machine dispensing device. In this dispensing device, a switching section is installed between the air outlet passage and the ventilation passage in the water case, and a switching mechanism is installed at the position of the switching section, so that the air outlet passage and the ventilation passage can be alternately switched to communicate with the fluid. This allows for flexible and convenient switching to communicate with the fluid on the corresponding passage according to the actual requirements before and after washing inside the cylindrical assembly. Furthermore, since the air outlet passage and the ventilation passage are designed integrally on the water case, the two passages have a common gas flow region, reducing the space occupied by the two passages inside the water case.
[0091] Another object of the present invention is to provide a washing machine.
[0092] To solve the aforementioned technical problems, the basic concept of the technical idea adopted by the present invention is as follows: The present invention provides a washing machine dispensing device that includes a water case used for supplying water or detergent into a cylindrical assembly, the water case having a blowing air passage that communicates with the outside and is used to discharge air from inside the cylindrical assembly to the outside through the inside of the water case, and a ventilation air passage that communicates with the inside of the water case and connects the cylindrical assembly to the inside of the water case and is used to maintain equilibrium of atmospheric pressure between the cylindrical assembly and the outside during washing, a switching section that connects the blowing air passage and the ventilation air passage is installed between them, and a switching mechanism is installed at the position of the switching section, thereby enabling fluid communication by alternately switching between the blowing air passage and the ventilation air passage.
[0093] Furthermore, the switching unit is installed above the water case and includes at least a switching chamber that is recessed downwards, with a first ventilation hole and a second ventilation hole installed above the switching chamber, communicating with the discharge air passage and the ventilation air passage, respectively, and the switching mechanism can alternately communicate fluids through the first ventilation hole and the second ventilation hole.
[0094] Furthermore, a partition plate extending downward along the height direction is installed inside the switching chamber, dividing the switching chamber into a first switching chamber and a second switching chamber. The first ventilation opening is installed on the partition plate, and the second ventilation opening is installed on the bottom wall of the second switching chamber.
[0095] Furthermore, the bottom wall of the first switching chamber is set higher than the bottom wall of the second switching chamber, and the transition between the two is via a stepped surface.
[0096] Furthermore, an intake interface is installed above the water case, with one end communicating with the inside of the cylindrical assembly via a second air guide tube, and the other end communicating with a second switching chamber.
[0097] Furthermore, the intake interface has a length that extends laterally above the water case, and the bottom of the intake interface is installed with a gradual slope from the second switching chamber towards the second air intake pipe.
[0098] Furthermore, the lower wall inside the water case is recessed downwards, forming a flow channel. The aforementioned recess gradually slopes from one side of the water case near the second ventilation hole to the other side, and a flow channel communicating with the outside is installed at the lowest point of the recess.
[0099] Furthermore, ventilation holes are installed on the side walls of the water case, and these ventilation holes are located above the flow guide holes.
[0100] Furthermore, the switching mechanism includes an airflow switching plate rotatably installed in the second switching chamber, and a motor whose drive end is connected to the pivot shaft of the airflow switching plate, and which is used to drive the airflow switching plate to the first and second ventilation holes.
[0101] The present invention further provides a washing machine having a washing machine dispensing device as described in any one of the above-mentioned items.
[0102] By employing the aforementioned technical solutions, the present invention has the following beneficial effects compared to the prior art.
[0103] (1) In this invention, a switching section is installed between the air outlet passage and the ventilation passage in the water case, and a switching mechanism is installed at the position of the switching section, so that the air outlet passage and the ventilation passage can be switched alternately to create fluid communication. This allows for flexible and convenient switching to create fluid communication on the corresponding passage according to the actual requirements before and after washing inside the cylindrical assembly. Furthermore, since the air outlet passage and the ventilation passage are designed integrally on the water case, the two passages have a common gas flow region, reducing the space occupied by the two passages inside the water case.
[0104] (2) The present invention provides a switching chamber formed in a downward recess at the top of the water case, the switching chamber having a first ventilation hole and a second ventilation hole, and a switching mechanism installed inside the switching chamber, which is used to perform alternating fluid communication operations to the first ventilation hole and the second ventilation hole. This controls the opening and closing of the first ventilation hole and the second ventilation hole, thereby controlling the switching operation of the two air passages, and as a result, fulfilling the different requirements of the washing program in the cylindrical assembly.
[0105] (3) In the present invention, a partition plate 33 extending vertically downward is installed in the intermediate part of the switching chamber, a first ventilation hole that fluidly communicates with the first switching chamber is installed on the partition plate 33, and a second ventilation hole is installed at the bottom of the second switching chamber. As a result, the fluid communication directions of the two ventilation holes are set perpendicular to each other, so that when ventilation work is performed, the mixed air, i.e., the air flowing out from the cylinder assembly, changes direction from the first ventilation hole after passing through the second switching chamber, comes into contact with the side wall of the switching chamber, and the contained water vapor etc. is condensed and remains in the second switching chamber, where it is temporarily stored, ensuring the separation of water vapor during ventilation work.
[0106] (4) The present invention further includes an intake interface installed above the water case, and the entire intake interface has a certain length that extends laterally to the top of the water case, forming a common flow path between the discharge air passage and the ventilation air passage, extending to the switching chamber position. Furthermore, the entire extended portion of the intake interface is gradually inclined downward from the switching chamber toward one end of the second guide pipe, so that the entire intake interface has a constant gradient. This further optimizes the placement of the two air passages within the water case, and in the event of overflow into the intake interface via the second guide pipe during washing, the entire intake interface provides a constant defoaming path, making it possible to return a portion of the defoamed washing liquid back into the cylindrical assembly.
[0107] This invention provides a switching mechanism. The switching mechanism includes a protective cover installed outside the motor, preventing high-temperature steam flowing out from the shaft hole on the chamber wall of the switching chamber from directly contacting the motor. Furthermore, a sealing section extending to the outer circumference of the rotating shaft is installed at the front end of the protective cover, and a sealing device is installed between the inner wall of the sealing section and the outer wall of the rotating shaft. This achieves dynamic sealing between the rotating shaft and the protective cover, preventing high-temperature steam from contacting the motor's operating end and subsequently flowing into the motor. This solves the conventional problem where high-temperature steam generated during washing machine operation affects the normal operation of the switching mechanism's motor.
[0108] To solve the aforementioned technical problems, the basic concepts of the technical ideas adopted by this invention are as follows.
[0109] The switching mechanism comprises an airflow switching plate installed inside the switching chamber and a motor installed in the switching chamber's rotating section. One end of the rotating shaft of the airflow switching plate penetrates the chamber wall of the switching chamber and is connected to the operating end of the motor. Furthermore, it is provided with a protective cover that covers at least the front end of the motor. The protective cover has a sealing section that extends at least a portion to the outer circumference of the rotating shaft, and a sealing device is installed between the rotating shaft and the sealing section.
[0110] Furthermore, a shaft sleeve coaxial with the pivot shaft is installed at one end of the pivot shaft closest to the motor. The shaft sleeve is fitted onto the operating end of the motor and connected to the operating end of the motor in a circumferential manner. The sealing device is installed between the outer wall of the shaft sleeve and the inner wall of the sealing section.
[0111] Furthermore, the sealing device includes a seal ring. A seal groove extending in the circumferential direction of the shaft sleeve is installed on the outer wall of the shaft sleeve, and the seal ring is fitted into the seal groove. The radial thickness of the seal ring is greater than or equal to the difference between the inner radius of the sealing portion and the radius of the bottom of the seal groove. Preferably, the inner circumferential wall of the seal ring elastically contacts the bottom of the seal groove, and the outer wall of the seal ring and the inner wall of the sealing portion are in elastic contact.
[0112] Furthermore, the seal ring comprises a first portion extending in the axial direction, a second portion extending in the axial direction from the end of the first portion and inclined toward one side farther from the axis, and a third portion extending in the axial direction from the connection point between the first and second portions and inclined toward one side closer to the axis.
[0113] Furthermore, the thickness of the first portion of the seal ring is greater than the thickness of the second portion and also greater than the thickness of the third portion. Preferably, a pair of second and third portions, each having a V-shaped axial cross-section, are provided at both ends of the first portion.
[0114] Furthermore, an insertion groove corresponding to the sealing portion is provided on the outside of the chamber wall of the switching chamber, and the shape of the insertion groove conforms to the shape of the end of the sealing portion. One end of the sealing portion closest to the switching chamber is inserted into the insertion groove. Preferably, the sealing portion extends from the front of the protective cover toward the switching chamber, and the end of the pivot shaft abuts against the front of the protective cover.
[0115] Furthermore, the switching chamber comprises a first chamber wall and a second chamber wall installed so as to surround the rotation center of the airflow switching plate. The pivot shaft is installed at the corner positions of the first and second chamber walls, and shaft holes that fit the pivot shaft are installed at the corner positions of the first and second chamber walls. A flap extending radially from the pivot shaft is installed on the pivot shaft, and the flap has a first position in close contact with the first chamber wall and a second position in close contact with the second chamber wall.
[0116] Furthermore, the pivot shaft is provided with at least one radial projection extending in the circumferential direction of the pivot shaft, and a limiting groove that fits the radial projection is provided on the inner wall of the shaft hole. Preferably, one end of the pivot shaft furthest from the motor is inserted onto the chamber wall of the switching chamber furthest from one side of the motor, the flap is installed in the central part of the pivot shaft, and the radial projection comprises at least two, installed on the pivot shaft on both sides of the flap.
[0117] Furthermore, the switching chamber comprises a switching chamber body and a detachable closing cover installed on the outside of the switching chamber body, the closing cover being installed at the corners of the first and second chamber walls. Openings are provided on the switching chamber body at positions corresponding to the corners of the first and second chamber walls, the closing cover is used to close these openings, and the shaft holes are installed on the closing cover. The thickness of the flap is less than or equal to the width of the opening.
[0118] Furthermore, ventilation openings corresponding to airflow switching plates are installed on the first and second chamber walls. The flap comprises a plate-shaped flap body and a rubber cover fitted to the outside of the flap body, and sealing protrusions corresponding to the ventilation openings on the first and second chamber walls are installed on the rubber cover. Preferably, a flat surface is installed on the pivot axis between the two radial protrusions, the flap body extends vertically from the center of the flat surface, a mounting groove is installed around the edge of the flap body, and the rubber cover is fitted to the mounting groove position of the flap body. Preferably, at least a portion of the mounting groove extends onto the flat surface.
[0119] The present invention further provides a washing machine dispensing device to which the aforementioned switching mechanism is attached.
[0120] By employing the aforementioned technical solutions, the present invention has the following beneficial effects compared to the prior art.
[0121] (1) The present invention prevents high-temperature steam flowing out from the shaft hole on the wall of the switching chamber from directly contacting the motor by installing a protective cover on the outside of the motor. Furthermore, a sealing portion extending to the outer circumference of the rotating shaft is installed at the front end of the protective cover, and a sealing device is installed between the inner wall of the sealing portion and the outer wall of the rotating shaft, thereby achieving dynamic sealing between the rotating shaft and the protective cover, and preventing high-temperature steam from contacting the operating end of the motor and subsequently flowing into the motor. This prevents high-temperature steam generated during the operation of the washing machine from affecting the operating stability of the motor of the switching mechanism.
[0122] (2) The present invention enhances the axial positioning effect between the rotating shaft and the switching chamber by installing a radial projection on the rotating shaft of the airflow switching plate, thereby improving the operational stability of the switching mechanism.
[0123] (3) The present invention provides a switching chamber comprising a switching chamber body and a detachable closing cover installed on the outside of the switching chamber body, and an axial hole is provided on the closing cover, so that the airflow switching plate can be attached to and detached from an opening on the switching chamber body. This allows the operator to conveniently inspect, repair, and maintain the switching mechanism.
[0124] (4) In the present invention, by installing a flap comprising a flap body and a rubber cover, the airflow switching plate closes the ventilation openings on the first and second chamber walls via the rubber cover, thereby ensuring the airtightness of the airflow switching plate to the ventilation openings and improving the operational stability of the switching mechanism.
[0125] Furthermore, the structure of the present invention is simple, its effects are remarkable, and it is suitable for widespread use.
[0126] Specific embodiments of the present invention will be described in more detail below with reference to the drawings. [Brief explanation of the drawing]
[0127] The drawings, which constitute part of the present invention, are for the purpose of providing a further understanding of the invention, and the exemplary embodiments and descriptions of the invention are for interpretation purposes only and do not unduly limit the invention. Needless to say, the drawings in the following description are only a few examples, and those skilled in the art can obtain other drawings based on these without any creative effort. The drawings are as follows. [Figure 1] This is a schematic block diagram of an additive dispensing apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] This is a schematic block diagram of an additive dispensing apparatus according to another embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 3] This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an additive dispensing device according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 4] This is a schematic diagram of the AA cross-sectional structure according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 5] This is a schematic diagram of the disassembled structure of an additive dispensing device according to an embodiment of the present invention, viewed from different angles. [Figure 6] This is a schematic diagram of the disassembled structure of an additive dispensing device according to an embodiment of the present invention, viewed from different angles. [Figure 7] This is a schematic block diagram of an additive dispensing device according to another embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 8] This is a schematic block diagram of an additive dispensing apparatus according to yet another embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 9] This is a schematic top view of an additive dispensing device according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 10] This is a schematic cross-sectional view AA of Figure 9, relating to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 11] This is a partially enlarged schematic diagram of area B in Figure 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 12] This is a schematic diagram of the water supply channel structure for an additive dispensing device according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 13] This is a schematic diagram of the external structure of a foam generator according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 14] Figure 13 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the CC according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 15] This is a schematic diagram of the mounting structure of a switching mechanism according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 16] This is a schematic diagram of the internal structure of a switching chamber according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 17] This is a schematic diagram of the fitting structure between the switching chamber body and the closing cover according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 18] This is an exploded view of a switching mechanism according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 19] This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an airflow switching plate according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 20] This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a blocking cover according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 21] This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a seal ring according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 22] This is a schematic axial cross-sectional view of a seal ring according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 23] This is a schematic front view diagram of an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 24] This is a schematic diagram of a side structure according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 25] This is a schematic diagram of the top structure according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 26] This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a water case according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 27] This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a water case panel according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 28] This is a schematic diagram of the enlarged structure in section B of Figure 27. [Figure 29] This is a schematic diagram of the enlarged structure of part A in Figure 25. [Figure 30] This is a schematic diagram of a partial cross-sectional structure of a water case according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 31]This is an enlarged schematic diagram of section C in Figure 30. It should be noted that these drawings and textual descriptions are not intended to limit the scope of the concept of the present invention in any way, but rather to explain the concept of the present invention to those skilled in the art by referring to specific embodiments. [Modes for carrying out the invention]
[0128] To further clarify the purpose, technical concept, and advantages of the embodiments of the present invention, the technical concept of the embodiments will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the drawings of the embodiments. The following embodiments are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of the present invention.
[0129] In describing this invention, unless otherwise explicitly defined or limited, the terms "attach," "connect," and "connect" should be understood in a broad sense. For example, a connection may be fixed, detachable, or integral. Furthermore, a connection may be mechanical or electrical. Also, a connection may be direct or indirect, mediated through an intermediate intermediary. Those skilled in the art will be able to understand the specific meaning of these terms in this invention depending on the specific circumstances.
[0130] An embodiment of the present invention introduces a washing machine. The washing machine comprises a water receiving tank used for holding water and a washing cylinder 4 rotatably mounted inside the water receiving tank for holding the load to be processed. An additive dispensing device is further provided on the washing machine and is used to directly dispense the additive mixture into the washing cylinder 4. With the above configuration, the washing machine can achieve the effect of dispensing the additive mixture directly into the washing cylinder and dispensing the dispensed additive mixture directly onto the load to be processed inside the washing cylinder for use in clothing processing. This achieves a significant technological advancement in which the additive utilization rate is increased and the effectiveness of clothing processing is enhanced. [Examples]
[0131] As shown in Figures 7 and 8, this embodiment introduces an additive dispensing device. The additive dispensing device comprises a liquid storage chamber containing additives, and an input water supply channel 100 which is in communication with the liquid storage chamber 21 via a suction pump 7 and uses the power provided by the suction pump 7 to pressurize the additives stored in the liquid storage chamber 21 to the temporary storage section 107 of the input water supply channel 100, where they are mixed with the passing intake water flow to form an additive mixture. A water distribution branch channel 8 is connected to the input water supply channel 100 in parallel with the temporary storage section 107.
[0132] By connecting a water diversion channel in parallel to the input water supply channel, it becomes possible to wash away and introduce the pressurized additive using only a portion of the intake water flow. This significantly reduces the flow velocity of the additive in the input water supply channel, increases the contact time between the additive and the intake water, improves contact mixing more thoroughly, and achieves a remarkable technological advancement by greatly improving the uniformity of the additive mixture.
[0133] In this embodiment, a mixing section 112 is provided in the downstream portion of the water inlet channel 100, and the mixing section 112 is located downstream of the temporary storage section 107. The outlet of the water distribution channel 8 is in communication with the water inlet channel 100 downstream of the temporary storage section 107 and upstream of the mixing section 113, and the inlet of the water distribution channel 8 is in communication with the water inlet channel 100 upstream of the temporary storage section 107.
[0134] In this embodiment, a control valve for adjusting the water intake flow rate of the water distribution channel 8 and / or the water supply channel 100 is provided at the point where the water distribution channel 8 and the water supply channel 100 are connected (not shown in the drawings).
[0135] In this embodiment, the temporary storage unit 107 is selectively connected to a plurality of liquid storage chambers 21 via a suction pump 7. Each liquid storage chamber 21 stores a different additive and is used to selectively pump the different additives to the temporary storage unit 107. Preferably, each of the plurality of liquid storage chambers 21 is connected to the same temporary storage unit 107 via a one-to-one corresponding suction pump 7. Preferably, each of the plurality of liquid storage chambers 21 is connected to the same switching valve structure, the switching valve structure is connected to each temporary storage unit 21 via the same suction pump 7, and the switching valve structure selectively connects the plurality of liquid storage chambers 21 to the temporary storage unit 107 via the suction pump 7 in a switchable manner.
[0136] In this embodiment, an intake valve 6 is provided at the intake end of the water supply channel 100 and is used to control the opening and closing of the water intake flow in the water supply channel 100. The inlet and temporary storage section 107 of the water distribution branch channel 8 are in communication with each other and are connected to the portion of the water supply channel 100 between them and the intake valve 6.
[0137] In this embodiment, at least one mixing section 112 is provided on the water inlet channel 100, and a mixing structure used for mixing the intake water flow and additives is provided within the mixing section 112. The outlet of the water distribution branch 8 communicates with the portion of the water inlet channel 100 between the mixing section 112 and the temporary storage section 107. Preferably, a plurality of mixing sections 112 are connected in series on the water inlet channel 100, and the mixing structures provided within each mixing section 112 sequentially perform a mixing treatment on the intake water flow and additives, and the outlet of the water distribution branch 8 communicates with the inlet of the uppermost primary mixing section 112.
[0138] In this embodiment, a first-stage mixing unit 1121 and a secondary mixing unit 1122 are connected in series on the water inlet channel 100. The first-stage mixing unit 1121 is equipped with a negative pressure suction pipe 113, which is connected in series on the water inlet channel 100. The negative pressure suction pipe 113 has a negative pressure port 1131, which is connected to the outlet of the water distribution branch channel 8. The negative pressure suction pipe 113 generates negative pressure at the negative pressure port position by utilizing the water flow passing through its internal passage, drawing in the intake water flow from the water distribution branch channel and mixing it with the mixed liquid. The secondary mixing unit 1122 is equipped with a circular chamber connected in series on the water inlet channel 100, and a coaxially mounted and freely rotatable impeller is provided inside the circular chamber.
[0139] Preferably, as shown in Figure 8, this embodiment further includes a second water supply branch channel 9 connected in parallel to the water supply channel 100. The inlet of the second water supply branch channel 9 is connected to the portion of the water supply channel 100 between the first mixing section 1121 and the temporary storage section 107, and the outlet is connected to the portion of the water supply channel 100 between the first mixing section 1121 and the secondary mixing section 1122.
[0140] In this embodiment, a foam generator 114 is provided on the water inlet channel 100 and is used to perform foaming treatment on the additive mixture. The foam generator 114 is provided on the portion of the water inlet channel 100 downstream of the mixing section 112. Preferably, the foam generator 114 is a negative pressure pipe connected in series on the water inlet channel 100, or the foam generator is an air pump that pressurizes air into the water inlet channel 100.
[0141] In this embodiment, there are multiple water inlet channels 100, and each temporary storage section 107 of each water inlet channel 100 is connected to at least one liquid storage chamber 21. This allows for the injection of different types of additives, or the injection of the same type of additive simultaneously. [Examples]
[0142] As shown in Figures 1, 3 to 6, this embodiment introduces an additive dispensing device. The additive dispensing device comprises two supply channels from which water can be drawn individually, namely a negative pressure supply channel 500 and an injection supply channel 100, and an injection channel 3 connected to a storage chamber 21 in which the additive is stored. Furthermore, it is equipped with a control switching structure used to change the connection configuration of the injection channel 3. The injection channel 3 connects the negative pressure supply channel 500 and the storage chamber 21 to each other, and uses the negative pressure generated by the water intake flow of the negative pressure supply channel 500 to draw the additive in the storage chamber 21 into the injection channel. Alternatively, both ends of the injection channel 3 are connected to the injection supply channel 100, and a portion of the water intake flow of the injection supply channel 100 flows into the injection channel 3, drawing up the additive into the injection supply channel 100, where it mixes with the water intake flow of the injection supply channel 100 to form an additive mixture.
[0143] The aforementioned configuration utilizes a portion of the intake water flow, which is diverted in the inlet water channel, to rinse the injection channel. This significantly reduces the amount of water used to rinse the additive, decreases the injection velocity of the additive, and increases the time the additive is in contact with the intake water. This achieves a remarkable technological advancement in improving the uniformity of the additive mixture.
[0144] In this embodiment, the inlet of the liquid injection channel 3 is selectively connected to the negative pressure water supply channel 500 and the upstream portion of the mixing section 112 of the input water supply channel 100 via a suction cleaning three-way switching valve 105, and the outlet of the liquid injection channel 3 is connected to the intake end of the mixing section 112 of the input water supply channel 100. The suction cleaning three-way switching valve 105 is used to control the inlet of the liquid injection channel 3 so that it is selectively connected to the negative pressure water supply channel 500 and the upstream portion of the mixing section 112 of the input water supply channel 100.
[0145] In this embodiment, the central portion of the liquid injection channel 3 is connected to at least one liquid storage chamber 21 via a liquid absorption channel, and a check valve 5 is provided on the liquid absorption channel to ensure that the liquid in the channel flows in only one direction, towards the liquid injection channel 3. Preferably, a plurality of liquid storage chambers 21 are each connected to the liquid injection channel 3 via a one-to-one corresponding liquid absorption channel. More preferably, each liquid absorption channel is provided with a control valve for controlling the opening and closing of the pipeline, and / or a switching valve is provided at the junction of each liquid absorption channel and the liquid injection channel 3 to switch between opening and closing the pipeline, and is used to control each liquid absorption channel to selectively communicate with the liquid injection channel (not shown in the drawings).
[0146] In this embodiment, the explanation will be developed using an example in which two liquid storage chambers are connected. Specifically, it is as follows: It comprises a first liquid storage chamber 211 and a second liquid storage chamber 212, and a three-way liquid absorption valve 110 is connected in series on the liquid injection channel 3. The third opening of the three-way liquid absorption valve 110 is connected to the first liquid storage chamber 211 via the first liquid absorption channel, and the second liquid storage chamber 212 is connected to the liquid injection channel 3 downstream of the three-way liquid absorption valve 110 via the second liquid absorption channel. A check valve 5 is provided on the second liquid absorption channel to ensure that the liquid in the channel flows only in the direction of the liquid injection channel. The three-way liquid absorption valve 110 is used to control the upstream liquid injection channel 3 to communicate with the downstream liquid injection channel 3 and the first liquid absorption channel interchangeably.
[0147] In this embodiment, a temporary storage section 107 is provided on the injection channel 3 for storing additives drawn up into the injection channel 3. The temporary storage section 107 is located in the upstream portion of the injection channel 3, upstream of the connection point between the suction channel and the injection channel 3. A check valve 5 is provided on the portion of the injection channel 3 downstream of the connection point between the suction channel and the injection channel 3, and is used to ensure that the liquid passing through the injection channel 3 can flow only in the direction of the mixing section 112 of the injection channel 3. Preferably, a flow meter 108 is provided on the injection channel 3, located between the suction and washing three-way switching valve 105 and the temporary storage section 107, and is used to measure the amount of liquid passing through the injection channel 3.
[0148] In this embodiment, a negative pressure structure is connected in series on the negative pressure water supply channel 500, and the negative pressure structure has a negative pressure port 5031. The negative pressure structure can create a negative pressure at the negative pressure port position by utilizing the water flow passing through it. The negative pressure structure may be any conventional structure that achieves the above-mentioned function. For example, a venturi tube 503. The two inlets of the suction cleaning three-way switching valve 105 communicate with each other, one with the negative pressure port 5031 of the negative pressure structure provided on the negative pressure water supply channel 500 and the other with the pipeline portion upstream of the mixing section 112 provided on the input water supply channel 100.
[0149] In this embodiment, a first intake valve 61 is provided at the inlet end of the negative pressure water supply channel 500 and is used to control the opening and closing of the intake water flow of the negative pressure water supply channel 500. A second intake valve 62 is provided at the inlet end of the input water supply channel 100 and is used to control the opening and closing of the intake water flow of the input water supply channel 100.
[0150] In this embodiment, at least one mixing section 112 is provided on the water inlet channel 100, and a mixing structure used for mixing the intake water flow and the additive is provided within the mixing section 112. Preferably, a plurality of mixing sections 112 are connected in series on the water inlet channel 100, and the mixing structure provided within each mixing section 112 sequentially performs a mixing process on the intake water flow and the additive. The aforementioned mixing section 112 may be one or a combination of a negative pressure suction pipe 113 that draws in and mixes the additive using the intake water flow, or an impeller that drives rotation using fluid force to agitate the mixed liquid.
[0151] Preferably, a first-stage mixing unit 1121 and a secondary mixing unit 1122 are connected in series on the water inlet channel 100. The aforementioned first-stage mixing unit 1121 is equipped with a negative pressure suction pipe 113, which is connected in series on the water inlet channel 100. The negative pressure suction pipe 113 has a negative pressure port 1131, which is connected to the outlet of the liquid injection channel 3, and the negative pressure suction pipe 113 can generate negative pressure at the negative pressure port 1131 position by utilizing the water flow passing through its internal channel. The secondary mixing unit 1122 is equipped with a circular chamber connected in series on the water inlet channel 100, and a coaxially mounted and freely rotatable impeller is provided inside the circular chamber. The impeller is driven to rotate in accordance with the passing mixed liquid, agitating the mixed liquid and thereby improving the mixing effect of the mixed liquid.
[0152] In this embodiment, a foam generator 114 is provided on the water inlet channel 100 and is used to perform foaming treatment on the additive mixture. The foam generator 114 is provided on the water inlet channel 100 and is located downstream of the mixing section 112.
[0153] In this embodiment, the garment processing equipment will be further described. The garment processing equipment includes a washing tub 4 to which the aforementioned additive dispensing device is attached. The inlets of the negative pressure water supply channel 500 and the water supply dispensing channel 100 are connected to the water intake pipe of the washing machine so that they can be controlled to be opened or closed, and the outlets of both the negative pressure water supply channel 500 and the water supply dispensing channel 100 are connected to the washing cylinder 4.
[0154] In this embodiment, the method for controlling the addition of additives to the garment processing equipment includes the steps of alternately drawing up an additive and adding an additive.
[0155] The step of drawing up the aforementioned additive includes having the control switching structure in a first connection configuration, connecting the negative pressure water supply channel and the liquid storage chamber via an injection channel, drawing water into the negative pressure water supply channel, and using the negative pressure generated by the water flow in the negative pressure water supply channel to draw up the additive in the liquid storage chamber into the injection channel.
[0156] The step of adding the aforementioned additive is performed with the control switching structure in the second connection configuration, connecting both ends of the liquid injection channel to the water supply channel, drawing water into the water supply channel, allowing a portion of the water intake flow from the water supply channel to flow into the liquid injection channel, introducing the drawn-up additive into the water supply channel, forming a mixture of the water and additive in the water supply channel, and then spraying it into the washing machine.
[0157] In this embodiment, when the control switching structure is in the first connection configuration, the suction cleaning three-way switching valve connects the inlet of the liquid injection channel to the negative pressure port of the negative pressure structure provided on the negative pressure water supply channel, and connects the liquid storage chamber to the liquid injection channel. When the control switching structure is in the second connection configuration, the suction cleaning three-way switching valve connects the inlet of the liquid injection channel to the upstream portion of the mixing section of the water supply channel, and blocks the liquid storage chamber from the liquid injection channel. [Examples]
[0158] As shown in Figures 1 to 6, an additive injection device is introduced in an embodiment of the present invention. The additive injection device is a negative pressure water supply channel 500 in which a venturi pipe 503 is provided on the waterway, and the internal flow path of the venturi pipe 503 is a tapered pipe in which the pipe diameter gradually widens from the central part toward the intake end and the outlet end, and a negative pressure port 5031 is provided at the position of the smallest pipe diameter in the central part, and the venturi pipe 503 uses the water flow passing through it to form a negative pressure at the negative pressure port 5031, and the upstream part is in communication with a storage chamber 21 in which the additive is stored, and the downstream part is in communication with the additive and water intake The input water supply channel 100 is provided with a mixing section 112 for mixing, and the upstream portion is connected to a negative pressure port 5031 of a negative pressure water supply channel 500 in a way that allows it to be opened and closed. The negative pressure formed at the negative pressure port 5031 acts on the liquid storage chamber 21 along the connecting pipe, allowing the additive in the liquid storage chamber 21 to be drawn up into the input water supply channel 100. The drawn-up additive is then flowed into the mixing section 112 together with at least a portion of the water taken in by the input water supply channel 100 to form an additive mixture.
[0159] With the aforementioned configuration, the two different water supply channels of the dispensing device each have the function of providing suction force for the suction of the additive and the function of rinsing and dispensing the suctioned-up additive. In addition, the suctioned-up additive can be directly mixed with the intake water in the channel to form an additive mixture, or it can be directly sprayed into the washing cylinder 4. This achieves a significant technological advancement by using the additive mixture to directly spray-clean the clothes inside the cylinder.
[0160] As shown in Figures 1, 3 to 6, in the embodiment of the present invention, the upstream portion of the water supply channel 100 has injection channels 3 connected in parallel to each other. A temporary storage section 107 for temporarily storing the drawn-up additive is provided on the injection channels 3. The portion of the injection channels 3 upstream of the temporary storage section 107 communicates with the negative pressure port 5031, and the portion of the injection channels 3 downstream communicates with the liquid storage chamber 21.
[0161] In embodiments of the present invention, the following configuration may be used to achieve switching between the liquid intake and liquid washing channels. A control valve for controlling the opening and closing of the pipeline is provided on the connecting pipeline that connects the liquid injection channel 3 and the negative pressure port 5031. Upstream of the connection point between the liquid injection channel 3 and the negative pressure port 5031, a control valve for controlling the opening and closing of the pipeline, or a check valve for preventing backflow to the upstream side of the liquid injection channel, is provided on the liquid injection channel 3 (not shown in the drawings).
[0162] Furthermore, the following configuration may be adopted in the embodiments of the present invention.
[0163] The negative pressure port 5031 is connected to one end of the connecting pipeline, and the other end of the connecting pipeline is incorporated into the liquid injection channel 3 via a suction and cleaning three-way switching valve 105. It is used to connect the upstream and downstream sides of the liquid injection channel 3 to each other, or to switch the downstream side of the liquid injection channel 3 to communicate with the negative pressure port 5031 via the connecting pipeline.
[0164] This allows the liquid injection channel 3 to be connected in parallel with the water supply channel 100. The upstream end of the liquid injection channel 3 draws water from the water supply channel 100, and after the water passes through the entire liquid injection channel 3, it returns to the water supply channel 100 from the downstream end of the liquid injection channel 3. Alternatively, the liquid injection channel 3 can connect the negative pressure port 5031 of the negative pressure water supply channel 500 with the mixing section 112 of the water supply channel 100. The negative pressure created at the negative pressure port 5031 is used to draw the additive in the storage chamber 21 into the liquid injection channel 3, causing it to flow towards the upstream end of the liquid injection channel 3 and enter the temporary storage section 107.
[0165] In this embodiment of the present invention, a plurality of liquid storage chambers 21 are connected to the liquid injection channel 3 downstream of the temporary storage section 107. Each liquid storage chamber 21 contains a different type of additive. Control valves are provided on the connecting channels that connect each liquid storage chamber 21 to the liquid injection channel 3, and are used to control the opening and closing of the connecting channels so that each liquid storage chamber 21 can selectively communicate with the liquid injection channel 3. As a result, the additive in any of the liquid storage chambers 21 can be drawn into the liquid injection channel 3 by the negative pressure generated at the negative pressure port 5031.
[0166] Preferably, in the embodiments of the present invention, the following discussion will be based on an example in which two liquid storage chambers 21 are connected on the liquid injection channel 3. The first liquid storage chamber 211 is incorporated into the liquid injection channel 3 via a three-way liquid suction valve 110, and the second liquid storage chamber 212 is connected to the portion of the liquid injection channel 3 downstream of the three-way liquid suction valve 110. The three-way liquid suction valve 110 is used to switch to a state in which the additive in the second liquid storage chamber 212 is drawn up to the temporary storage section 107 by utilizing negative pressure by connecting the temporary storage section 107 and the downstream side of the liquid injection channel 3, or to switch to a state in which the additive in the first liquid storage chamber 211 is drawn up to the temporary storage section 107 by utilizing negative pressure by connecting the temporary storage section 107 and the first liquid storage chamber 211.
[0167] In an embodiment of the present invention, a negative pressure suction pipe 113 is connected in series to the water inlet channel 100. A negative pressure port 1131 is provided on the negative pressure suction pipe 113, and the negative pressure suction pipe 113 can create negative pressure at the negative pressure port 1131 by utilizing the water flow passing through it. The negative pressure port 1131 communicates with the downstream end of the liquid injection channel 3, and the negative pressure created at the negative pressure port 1131 is used to draw the additives that have been sucked up into the liquid injection channel 3 back into the water inlet channel 100, where they are preliminarily mixed to form an additive mixture. Preferably, the aforementioned negative pressure suction pipe 113 is located downstream of the connection point between the upstream end of the liquid injection channel 3 and the water inlet channel 100, so that most of the intake water flow that has not entered the liquid injection channel 3 can flow in through the inlet of the negative pressure suction pipe 113, and the incoming water flow is used to create negative pressure at the negative pressure port 1131 and to draw up the additives in the liquid injection channel. In the embodiment of the present invention, the aforementioned negative pressure suction pipe 113 is a Venturi tube. The internal flow path of the Venturi tube is tapered, gradually widening from the center towards both ends, and a negative pressure port 1131 is provided at the position of the smallest pipe section.
[0168] In an embodiment of the present invention, at least one mixing section 112 is connected in series to the downstream side of the input water supply channel 100, and a mixing structure is provided within the mixing section 112 for mixing the passing additive with the intake water flow. Preferably, the mixing section 112 is a circular chamber, and an inlet and an outlet extending tangentially are provided on opposite sides of the circular chamber. An impeller is provided inside the circular chamber, which is installed coaxially with the center of the cylinder and can rotate freely around the axis. As the additive mixture passes through the circular chamber, the flowing mixture drives the rotation of the impeller, causing the impeller to rotate and constantly agitate the mixture. This achieves the technical effect of thoroughly mixing the additive with the intake water.
[0169] In an embodiment of the present invention, a foam generator 114 is provided downstream of the water supply channel 100. The foam generator 114 performs foaming treatment on the additive mixture passing through it. Preferably, the foam generator 114 is provided on the water supply channel 100 downstream of the mixing section 112 and is used to perform foaming treatment on the thoroughly mixed additive mixture.
[0170] Embodiments of the present invention further describe a method for controlling the addition of additives to a garment processing facility. The method includes, alternately, the steps of drawing up an additive and adding the additive.
[0171] The step of drawing up the aforementioned additive includes the following:
[0172] The selected additive storage chamber and the water supply channel are connected to each other, and the negative pressure port of the negative pressure water supply channel and the water supply channel are fluidly connected to each other. Water is drawn into the negative pressure water supply channel, and the drawn water is used to create negative pressure at the negative pressure port, which in turn draws the additive in the selected storage chamber into the water supply channel.
[0173] The step of adding the aforementioned additives includes the following:
[0174] The liquid storage chamber and the water supply channel are blocked off, and the negative pressure port of the negative pressure water supply channel is blocked off from the water supply channel. Water is drawn into the water supply channel, and the additives drawn up by the water are flowed into the mixing section to form an additive mixture, which is then discharged from the water supply channel and poured into the washing cylinder for entry.
[0175] In an embodiment of the present invention, the aforementioned additive dispensing device is installed on the garment processing equipment. The additive dispensing process is specifically as follows.
[0176] The step of drawing up the aforementioned additive includes the following:
[0177] The selected additive storage chamber and the water supply channel are connected to each other, and the negative pressure port of the negative pressure water supply channel and the liquid injection channel of the water supply channel are connected via fluid. Water is drawn into the negative pressure water supply channel, and the drawn water is used to create negative pressure at the negative pressure port. The negative pressure draws the additive in the selected storage chamber into a temporary storage section provided on the liquid injection channel.
[0178] The step of adding the aforementioned additives includes the following:
[0179] The liquid storage chamber and the water supply channel are blocked off, and the negative pressure port of the negative pressure water supply channel and the liquid injection channel are blocked off. Water is drawn into the water supply channel, a portion of the drawn water flows into the liquid injection channel, the additives that have been sucked up into the temporary storage section are pushed out of the liquid injection channel, and the mixture is mixed with all the water in the mixing section to form an additive mixture, which is then discharged from the water supply channel and poured into the washing tube for entry.
[0180] In embodiments of the present invention, the process of adding the additive further includes the following steps: After the additive mixture formed in the mixing section is foamed by the action of a bubble generator, it is discharged again from the water supply channel and the foamed additive mixture is directly injected into the washing cylinder. The foamed additive mixture is then used to perform garment processing on the clothes inside the washing cylinder.
[0181] As shown in Figures 3-6, an additive dispensing device is disclosed in an embodiment of the present invention. The specific structure of the additive dispensing device is as follows: It comprises a water case 1 and a detergent case 2 installed inside the water case 1. The water case 1 comprises a water storage tank 11 and an upper cover 12, and the opening at the top of the water storage tank is for the upper cover 12 to cover and engage with it, and the detergent case 2 is installed inside the water storage tank 11 so as to be removable to the outside from the front opening. At least one liquid storage chamber 21 is provided inside the detergent case 2 and is used to store additives. Each liquid storage chamber 21 can store different types of additives. For example, detergents, fabric softeners, rinse agents, disinfectants, etc., or a combination thereof. A water channel is integrated inside the upper cover 12. This water channel comprises at least an input water supply channel 100 used to generate an additive mixture and inject the additive mixture to the outside, and a negative pressure water supply channel 500 that uses the intake water flow passing through it to create negative pressure, which then draws the additive contained in the storage chamber 21 into the input water supply channel 100. As a result, the intake water flow passing through the input water supply channel is mixed with the drawn-up additive to form an additive mixture.
[0182] In an embodiment of the present invention, the water supply channel 100 includes a first water intake port 101 provided on the side of the upper cover 12. The inlet end of the first water intake port 101 is connected to a first water intake valve 61, and the outlet end communicates with a first water intake chamber 102 integrally installed inside the upper cover 12. A first water outlet opening 1021 is provided at the top of the first water intake chamber 102, and the first water outlet opening 1021 is connected to the inlet of a first connecting pipe 103 provided on the upper side of the upper cover. A second water outlet opening 1022 is further drilled in the central part of the first water intake chamber 102, and the second water outlet opening 1022 is connected to a main water intake pipe 104 integrally installed on the upper cover 12. The diameter of the main intake pipe 104 is larger than the diameter of the first connecting pipe 103, and preferably the diameter of the main intake pipe 104 is twice the diameter of the first connecting pipe 103.
[0183] In this embodiment of the present invention, the outlet of the first connecting pipe 103 communicates with the first inlet 1051 of the suction cleaning three-way switching valve 105, and the second inlet 1052 of the suction cleaning three-way switching valve 105 communicates with the negative pressure chamber 506 installed inside the upper cover. A through-opening is provided in the bottom wall of the negative pressure chamber 506, which communicates with the negative pressure port 5031 of the venturi pipe 503 installed on the negative pressure water supply channel 500. The outlet 1053 of the suction cleaning three-way switching valve 105 communicates with the inlet of the second connecting pipe 106, which is installed protruding from the upper side of the upper cover 12. The outlet of the second connecting pipe 106 communicates with the inlet of the temporary storage section 107, which is integrally installed inside the upper cover 12. The temporary storage section 107 is a bent flow path installed so as to be folded and wound. A flow meter 108 is installed near the inlet of the temporary storage section 107, and the flow meter 108 measures and compiles statistics on the liquid passing through it. The outlet of the temporary storage section 107 communicates with the inlet of the third connecting pipe 109, which is installed protruding from the upper side of the upper cover 12.
[0184] In this embodiment of the present invention, the outlet of the third connecting pipe 109 communicates with the first inlet 1101 of the three-way liquid intake valve 110, and the second inlet 1102 of the three-way liquid intake valve 110 communicates with the first liquid storage chamber 211. The outlet 1103 of the three-way liquid intake valve 110 communicates with the inlet of the connecting channel 111 which is integrally installed inside the upper cover 12, the outlet of the connecting channel 111 communicates with the main intake pipe 104, and the outlet of the main intake pipe 104 communicates with the impeller mixing section 112.
[0185] Preferably, a negative pressure suction pipe 113 is provided within the main water intake pipe 104. The inlet of the negative pressure suction pipe 113 communicates with the first water intake chamber 102, and the outlet communicates with the impeller mixing section 112. The negative pressure port 1131 of the negative pressure suction pipe 113 communicates with the connecting flow path 111, thereby pre-mixing the drawn-up detergent mixture within the negative pressure suction pipe 113, and the main water intake pipe 104 constitutes a first-stage mixing section that pre-mixes the additive and the intake water.
[0186] In an embodiment of the present invention, the negative pressure water supply channel 500 includes a second intake port 501 provided on the side of the upper cover 12. The inlet end of the second intake port 501 is connected to a second intake valve 62, and the outlet end communicates with a second intake chamber 502 integrally installed inside the upper cover 12. The outlet of the second intake chamber 502 is connected to a venturi pipe 503 that extends horizontally and is integrally installed inside the upper cover. The inlet of the venturi pipe 503 communicates with the second intake chamber 502, and the outlet communicates with the inlet of the second outlet chamber 504. The negative pressure port 5031 communicates with the negative pressure chamber 506 of the water supply channel 100. The outlet of the second outlet chamber 504 constitutes a second outlet port 505 that communicates with the outside. [Examples]
[0187] As shown in Figures 1, 3 to 6, this embodiment introduces an additive dispensing device. The additive dispensing device includes a first water intake chamber 102 located inside the upper cover 11, and the first water intake chamber 102 communicates with the first water intake port 101. The first water intake chamber 102 further communicates with the water supply channel 100 via a first water outlet opening 1021, and with the liquid injection channel 3 via a second water outlet opening 1022. The opening dimensions of the first water outlet opening 1021 are larger than the opening dimensions of the second water outlet opening 1022.
[0188] With the aforementioned configuration, the intake water flow that is taken into the input device and used to rinse and introduce the additives is divided into two branches within the intake chamber. Each of the two branches rinses the additives in the temporary storage section, and the additives are mixed to form an additive mixture. Since the dimensions of the opening through which the rinsing water flow passes are smaller than the dimensions of the opening through which the mixing water flow passes, most of the intake water flow flows into the input water channel through the first outlet opening. This not only enables pressure reduction adjustment of the rinsing water flow but also guarantees the effect of drawing up and mixing the additives, significantly improving the overall input efficiency of the input device and the uniformity of the additive mixing.
[0189] In this embodiment, the water case 1 includes a water storage tank 11 with an upper cover 12 engaged with the top opening. A first water intake chamber 102 is integrally provided inside the upper cover 12. The bottom of the first water intake chamber 102 communicates with the first water intake port 101, and a first water outlet opening 1021 and a second water outlet opening 1022 are provided at the top of the first water intake chamber 102. Preferably, the first water outlet opening 1021 and the second water outlet opening 1022 are located on opposite sides of the first water intake chamber 102 with a gap between them, thereby ensuring that the water flows out from the two water outlets do not interfere with each other.
[0190] In this embodiment, the bottom wall of the first intake chamber 102 below the first outlet opening 1021 is higher than the bottom wall of the first intake chamber 102 below the second outlet opening 1022. Preferably, the bottom wall of the first intake chamber 102 is divided into three parts located on different height planes, with the first outlet opening 1021 located above the corresponding highest height plane and the second outlet opening 1022 located above the corresponding lowest height plane. As a result, the pressure of the water flow out from the first outlet opening 1021 is greater than the water pressure out from the second outlet opening 1022. Consequently, a significant technological advance is achieved in reducing the water pressure of the rinse water flow and increasing the suction force for drawing up additives.
[0191] In this embodiment, the second water outlet 1022 and the first water intake 101 are located on the same side of the first water intake chamber 102 and are arranged to intersect each other. As a result, the water flowing in from the first water intake 101 is buffered in part within the lowest bottom wall portion, then enters the second water outlet 1022 with low water pressure, and then pressurized by the higher bottom wall, after which the remaining portion of the water flow enters the first water outlet 1021 with high water pressure. The first water outlet 1021 and the first water intake 101 are provided on opposite sides of the first water intake chamber 102, and the first water outlet 1021 and the second water outlet 1022 are arranged to intersect each other at the front and rear positions of the water case 1.
[0192] In this embodiment, the first outlet opening 1021 of the first intake chamber 102 communicates with the inlet of the main intake pipe 104, which is installed protruding from the top of the upper cover 12, and the outlet of the main intake pipe 104 communicates with the mixing section 112 of the water supply channel 100. The second outlet opening 1022 of the first intake chamber 102 communicates with the inlet of the first connecting pipe 103, which is installed protruding from the top of the upper cover 12, and the outlet of the first connecting pipe 103 communicates with the temporary storage section 107 of the liquid injection channel 3. The diameter of the main intake pipe 104 is larger than the diameter of the first connecting pipe 103. This further guarantees the operating effect of having a low water pressure in the water flowing through the liquid injection channel 3 and a high water pressure in the water flowing into the water supply channel 100. [Examples]
[0193] As shown in Figures 1, 3 to 6, this embodiment introduces an additive dispensing device. The additive dispensing device comprises an inlet water channel 100 for introducing a water supply flow, and an injection channel connected to a storage chamber 21 in which additives are stored, which, through the action of a suction structure on the dispensing device, draws the additives in the storage chamber 21 into a temporary storage section 107 installed on the injection channel 100. The injection channel 3 is connected in parallel to at least a portion of the inlet water channel 100, and a portion of the intake water flow from the inlet water channel 100 flows into the injection channel 3, drawing up the additives and flowing them into the inlet water channel 100 to form an additive mixture.
[0194] In this embodiment, a negative pressure suction pipe 113 is provided on the water inlet channel 100, and a negative pressure port 1131 is provided on the negative pressure suction pipe 113 that can create negative pressure using the water flow passing through it. The outlet end of the liquid injection channel 3 is in communication with the negative pressure port 1131.
[0195] In this embodiment, the internal flow path of the negative pressure suction pipe 113 is a tapered pipe that gradually widens from the center towards both ends, and a negative pressure port 1131 is drilled in the pipe wall at the position where the pipe diameter is smallest in the center.
[0196] In this embodiment, the additive feeding device described above may be the additive feeding device described in any of the above-described embodiments 1 to 4. In addition, in this embodiment, the liquid absorption structure used on the feeding device may be a venturi tube 503 installed on the negative pressure water supply channel 500 described in any of the above-described embodiments 1 to 4, or it may be any other structure in the prior art that can achieve the pumping of additives. [Examples]
[0197] As shown in Figures 13-14, an embodiment of the present invention introduces a foam generator 114. The foam generator 114 has a flow path for passing the mixed liquid to be introduced. An air intake port 311 is drilled in the flow path, and it communicates with the outside air through the air intake port 311. An air intake chamber 332 is provided in the flow path, and the passage area of the air intake chamber 332 gradually increases along the flow direction of the mixed liquid. The air intake port 311 is drilled on the top wall of the flow path located upstream of the air intake chamber 332, and a drain port 312 is drilled on the bottom wall of the flow path upstream of the air intake chamber 332.
[0198] With the aforementioned configuration, the intake port 311 is installed upstream of the intake chamber 332 which forms a negative pressure. As a result, the intake chamber 332 does not communicate directly with the outside air, and a negative pressure region can be formed within the intake chamber 332. The negative pressure region draws in outside air, increasing the gas flow rate in the foam generator 114, which increases the amount of gas dissolved in the mixed liquid, thereby improving the foaming effect of the foam generator 114.
[0199] Furthermore, by installing the air intake port 311 on the top wall, the mixed liquid is prevented from leaking to the outside through the air intake port 311. However, this configuration presents one technical challenge. That is, during the process in which the garment processing equipment performs direct component spray washing ("essential washing") or a washing program, there is a possibility that the foam inside the cylinder will become excessive and overflow into the water case 1. When the overflow liquid enters the foam generator 114, because the air intake port 311 is drilled on the top wall, the overflow liquid flows continuously into the water supply channel 100 through the bottom wall, and as a result, the overflow liquid overflows to the outside of the garment processing equipment through the water case 1. The present invention solves the aforementioned technical challenge by directly discharging the overflow liquid by drilling an overflow port in the bottom wall of the foam generator 114.
[0200] In this embodiment of the present invention, the foam generator 114 is installed horizontally.
[0201] In an embodiment of the present invention, an inclined chamber wall is installed inside the intake chamber 332. The angle between the inclined chamber wall and the horizontal line is 30 degrees or less.
[0202] The aforementioned configuration reduces the rate of change in the pipe diameter within the intake chamber 332 by using a small angle of inclination, thereby avoiding the generation of a large-section, high-vacuum negative pressure region during the flow process of the mixed liquid. In a large-area negative pressure region, a large amount of foam begins to form before the mixed liquid flows out to the foam generator 114, and the excess foam increases resistance in the flow path, affecting the flow velocity of the mixed liquid. Therefore, by limiting the inclination of the chamber wall of the intake chamber 332, the occurrence of the aforementioned problem is effectively reduced. Furthermore, by reducing the inclination, the degree to which the gas entering the intake chamber 332 diffuses radially outward is further reduced, making it easier for the gas to come into contact with the mixed liquid and effectively improving the gas content of the mixed liquid.
[0203] In an embodiment of the present invention, a pressure boosting chamber 322 is installed upstream of the drain port 312 and intake port 311 of the flow path, and the passage area of the pressure boosting chamber 322 gradually decreases along the flow direction of the mixed liquid. The outlet of the pressure boosting chamber 322 is installed opposite the inlet of the intake chamber 332. By reducing the pipe diameter, the mixed liquid is accelerated and made turbulent, and the mixed liquid is accelerated and ejected through the outlet of the pressure boosting chamber 322, entering the inlet of the intake chamber 332, thus preventing the water flow from flowing out through the overflow port. This ensures that the amount of mixed liquid passing through the intake chamber 332 is equal to the total amount of mixed liquid passing through the pressure boosting chamber 322.
[0204] In this embodiment of the present invention, the pressure boosting chamber 322 and the intake chamber 332 each have a frustoconical structure, and the pressure boosting chamber 322 is installed coaxially with the intake chamber 332. This causes the mixed liquid to be ejected directly towards the center of the inlet of the intake chamber 332.
[0205] In this embodiment of the present invention, the passage area of the liquid outlet of the pressure boosting chamber 322 is smaller than the passage area of the liquid inlet of the intake chamber 332.
[0206] The liquid on the outer periphery of the water column-shaped mixture injected from the pressure boosting chamber 322 may experience a slight outward diffusion during the jetting process. The above configuration increases the passage area of the liquid inlet of the intake chamber 332, allowing the intake chamber 332 to collect the mixture in that portion within the intake chamber 332, thereby further improving the liquid collection effect.
[0207] In the embodiment of the present invention, the intake port 311 and the overflow port are installed to be the same shape and size, and are positioned directly opposite each other in the vertical direction.
[0208] In an embodiment of the present invention, the foam generator 114 comprises a columnar pressure boosting pipe section 321 and an intake pipe section 331 arranged in a row along the direction of extension of the flow path. The pressure boosting chamber 322 and the mixing section 112 are installed within the pressure boosting pipe section 321 and the intake pipe section 331, respectively. The pressure boosting pipe section 321 and the intake pipe section 331 are spaced apart, and connecting plates 341 extending toward the intake pipe section 331 are connected to both sides of the pressure boosting pipe section 321. Each connecting plate 341 is connected to the corresponding side of the intake pipe section 331. The two connecting plates 341 are spaced apart, and the gaps between their tops and bottoms constitute an intake port 311 and a drain port 312, respectively.
[0209] In the embodiment of the present invention, the pressure boosting pipe section 321 and the intake pipe section 331 each have a cylindrical structure with the same outer diameter.
[0210] In an embodiment of the present invention, each connecting plate 341 is connected to the outer peripheral edge of the opposing ends of the pressure boosting pipe section 321 and the intake pipe section 331.
[0211] In the embodiment of the present invention, the outer surface of each connecting plate 341 is an arc-shaped surface whose radius is equal to the radius of the columnar pressure boosting pipe section 321. The outer surface of each connecting plate 341 is flush with the outer surface of the pressure boosting pipe section 321 and the intake pipe section 331, respectively.
[0212] In this embodiment of the present invention, the inner surface of each connecting plate 341 is a vertical plane. The inner surfaces of the connecting plates 341, the opposing end faces of the pressure boosting pipe section 321 and the intake pipe section 331 are combined to form a communication chamber enclosed in a rectangular cross-section. The top and bottom openings of the communication chamber constitute an intake port 311 and a drain port 312, respectively. The rectangular cross-section facilitates the flow of overflowing additives and prevents the overflowing liquid from adhering to the upper chamber wall of the communication chamber.
[0213] In the embodiment of the present invention, the intake port 311 has a rectangular structure. The width of the intake port 311 in the direction perpendicular to the axis of the intake chamber 332 is greater than the diameter of the liquid inlet end of the intake chamber 332.
[0214] In this embodiment of the present invention, the central axis of the intake chamber 332 and the center line of the rectangular intake port 311 are located on the same vertical plane. As a result, the liquid inlet of the intake chamber 332 is located in the center of the intake port 311, and when the intake chamber 332 draws in air, additives can be drawn in at each position on the outer circumference of the liquid inlet end, thereby increasing the amount of air drawn into the intake chamber 332.
[0215] In an embodiment of the present invention, the width of the intake port 311 in the direction perpendicular to the axis of the intake chamber 332 is greater than three times the diameter of the liquid inlet end of the intake chamber 332.
[0216] With the aforementioned configuration, there are spaces on both sides of the inlet end in the horizontal direction that are at least larger than the diameter of the inlet end, and these are used for storing gas. When the intake chamber 332 draws air from the communication chamber, the communication chamber has sufficient space and is used for circulating the gas. This avoids a situation where the intake port 311 is too small, the gas flow velocity at the intake port 311 becomes too high, resulting in increased gas resistance and preventing the gas content in the mixed liquid from reaching the desired effect.
[0217] In an embodiment of the present invention, the foam generator 114 is provided with a plurality of parallel flow channels, and a drain port 3112 is drilled at the bottom of each flow channel.
[0218] In an embodiment of the present invention, the foam generator 114 comprises a plurality of columnar foaming sections 301 arranged in parallel. Each foaming section 301 has one flow path.
[0219] In the embodiment of the present invention, the radii of each columnar foaming portion 301 are equal.
[0220] In the embodiment of the present invention, each columnar foaming portion 301 is installed in close contact with the adjacent foaming portion 301.
[0221] In the embodiment of the present invention, the axial distance between each columnar foaming portion 301 and the adjacent foaming portion 301 is smaller than the diameter of each columnar foaming portion 301. As a result, the outer portions of the columnar foaming portions 301 overlap, reducing the width of the foam generator 114 and decreasing the occupied space.
[0222] In embodiments of the present invention, there is a certain distance between each intake port 311. Preferably, the distance between each intake port 311 is greater than or equal to the diameter of the intake end of the intake chamber 332. This prevents the intake ports 311 from interfering with each other when drawing in gas, which would result in a decrease in the amount of air drawn into each intake chamber 332, and ensures that each intake chamber 332 can draw in a sufficient amount of gas to mix with the liquid mixture.
[0223] In this embodiment of the present invention, a connecting pipe 333 is connected to the liquid inlet end of the intake chamber 332, and the passage diameter at each position of the connecting pipe 333 is equal. The intake port 311 is drilled in the flow path wall located upstream of the connecting pipe 333.
[0224] As shown in Figures 2 to 12, in an embodiment of the present invention, the additive injection device includes an injection water supply channel 100 inside and a water case 1 used to guide the mixed liquid to be injected containing the additive. The foam generator 114 described above is provided on the injection water supply channel 100, and a drain passage 120 is installed below the foam generator 114 in the water case 1. The outlet end of the drain passage 120 is in communication with the outside air.
[0225] The aforementioned configuration solves the problem of unstable fixing of the foam generator 114 by installing it on the additive dispensing device, thereby preventing leakage from the pipeline. Furthermore, by directly connecting the foam generator 114 to the water channel of the additive dispensing device, the passage area of the water channel connecting the foam generator 114 is reduced, improving the efficiency of outside air suction by the foam generator 114, and thereby improving the foaming effect. In addition, the correspondingly installed drain passage 120 guides out the liquid overflowing from the overflow port, preventing the overflow liquid from accumulating in the water case 1.
[0226] Furthermore, as the mixed liquid flows through the foam generator 114, the intake port 311 communicates with the outside air via the drain passage 120. This prevents the overflow liquid from overflowing to the outside through the ventilation structure by adding an extra ventilation structure.
[0227] In an embodiment of the present invention, the drain passage 120 is provided with a drain groove 121 that opens upward. A drain pipe 122 that communicates with the outside air is installed at the bottom of the drain groove 121, and the drain port 312 is installed horizontally offset from the inlet of the drain pipe 122. As a result, the overflow liquid first flows onto the bottom of the drain groove 121, and because the fluidity of the foam is low, it remains at the bottom of the groove. The overflow liquid that subsequently flows out from the drain port 312 directly collides with the foam that remains at the bottom of the drain groove 121, destroying the foam and allowing it to flow out as liquid. This fills the drain pipe 122 with foam, affecting the drainage effect, and as a result, prevents the drain liquid from flowing upstream of the foam generator.
[0228] In an embodiment of the present invention, a mounting chamber 13 is installed inside the water case 1. A removable detergent case 7 is installed inside the mounting chamber 13, and the detergent case 7 is used to store additives. At least one side wall of the detergent case 7 is installed at a distance from the mounting chamber 13, and the outlet of the drain pipe 122 is located directly above this space. By guiding the drained liquid toward the bottom of the mounting chamber 13, it is discharged to the outside of the water case 1 through the bottom of the mounting chamber 13.
[0229] In this embodiment of the present invention, the foam generator 114 is installed on top of the water case 1. An end cover is further installed on top of the water case 1, and a downward-opening groove is provided inside the end cover. The bottom of the end cover is sealed and engaged with the top of the water case 1, and the groove and the top of the water case 1 form a mounting chamber, in which the foam generator 114 is installed. This creates a sealed mounting chamber, allowing the overflow liquid to be discharged only through the drain passage 120, thus preventing the overflow liquid from overflowing widely to the outside and making cleaning difficult.
[0230] In an embodiment of the present invention, the input water supply channel 100 comprises at least a transport channel section 201 used to guide the mixed liquid, and a foaming channel section 202 located downstream of the transport channel section 201 and equipped with a foam generator 114. The width of the inlet end of the foaming channel section 202 is greater than the width of the outlet end of the transport channel section 201. As a result, before the mixed liquid enters the foam generator 114, it is buffered by the change in the passage area of the negative pressure water supply channel 500, allowing the additive to be distributed more uniformly in the mixed liquid and the foaming effect to be more stable.
[0231] In an embodiment of the present invention, there is a corner between the transport channel section 201 and the foaming channel section 202, and the input pipeline is formed as a channel with a corner. As a result, the water taken in from the transport channel section 201 first collides with the side wall at the corner of the input water supply channel 100 and is buffered before entering the foaming channel section 202, further improving the distribution effect of the additive in the mixed liquid.
[0232] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the angle between the connection point of the transport channel section 201 and the foaming channel section 202 is 90 degrees.
[0233] In an embodiment of the present invention, an opening is provided in one side wall of the foaming channel section 202 near the inlet end. The outlet end of the transport channel section 201 communicates with the foaming channel section 202 through this opening.
[0234] In this embodiment of the present invention, the height of the liquid inlet section of the foaming channel section 202 is higher than the height of the transport channel section 201. This creates a buffer section with a larger volume.
[0235] In an embodiment of the present invention, the foam generator 114 is provided with a plurality of parallel flow channels. Each flow channel has an inlet drilled in it, corresponding to the inlet end of the foam generator 114. The arrangement direction of each flow channel is parallel to the width direction of the foaming channel section 202.
[0236] With the aforementioned configuration, firstly, the thickness of the additive injection device is not likely to increase, so by installing multiple flow paths in parallel, the total passage area of each flow path in the foam generator 114 is made to an appropriate size, while simultaneously reducing the height occupied. Furthermore, it is guaranteed that the passage area does not change, while simultaneously increasing the total contact area between water and gas.
[0237] Furthermore, considering that the angle between the connection point of the transport channel section 201 and the foaming channel section 202 is 90 degrees, when the mixed water flow reaches the outlet end of the transport channel, it first collides with the side wall of the inlet water supply channel 100, which is perpendicular to the flow direction, and the water flow is sufficiently buffered. Due to this buffering effect, when the mixed liquid enters the foaming channel section 202, it is possible for it to be uniformly distributed in the width direction of the foaming channel section 202. As a result, the flow rate of the mixed liquid in each channel of the foam generator 114 becomes the same, thereby guaranteeing the foaming effect of multiple channels on the mixed liquid.
[0238] In this embodiment of the present invention, the liquid inlet end of the foam generator 114 is installed at a distance from the liquid inlet end of the foaming channel section 202.
[0239] In an embodiment of the present invention, a support structure 351 is installed on the foam generator 114, and the foam generator 114 is provided in the water supply channel 100 via the support structure 351. An engagement structure 205 is installed in the water supply channel 100, and the support frame is connected to the water supply channel 100 via the engagement structure 205. The engagement method ensures that the foam generator 114 is stably installed in the water supply channel 100, thereby facilitating the installation of the foam generator 114 and improving the production efficiency of the additive dispensing device.
[0240] In this embodiment of the present invention, support structures 351 are installed at both ends of the foam generator 114. Engagement structures 205 are installed on the water supply channel 100 in a one-to-one correspondence with each support structure 351, further improving the stability of the foam generator 114's mounting.
[0241] In an embodiment of the present invention, engaging structures 205 projecting to the opposite side are installed on both side walls of the water inlet channel 100. Insertion grooves 352 recessed inward are installed on both sides corresponding to the support frame, and the support frame engages with the corresponding engaging structures 205 via the insertion grooves 352 on both sides.
[0242] In this embodiment of the present invention, the support structure 351 is installed extending to surround the outer circumference of the foam generator 114. The insertion groove 352 extends to surround the outer circumference of the foam generator 114 and is an annular groove with an outward-facing opening. Annular engagement structures 205 projecting toward the center are installed on the inner circumferential wall of the water supply channel 100, and each annular engagement structure 205 is sealed and engaged inside the corresponding annular insertion groove 352.
[0243] With the above configuration, each engagement structure 205 can fix the foam generator 114, and at the same time, the outer circumference of both ends of the foam generator 114 is sealed with the side wall of the water supply channel 100 by fitting the engagement structure 205 with the corresponding insertion groove 352. As a result, the mixed liquid does not enter the outer surface between both ends of the foam generator 114.
[0244] In an embodiment of the present invention, the foam generator 114 comprises a plurality of cylindrical foaming sections 301 arranged in parallel. The support structure 351 located at the top of the foam generator 114 is wavy, and the groove bottom of the insertion groove 352 at that position is correspondingly wavy, and the shape of the extended end of the engagement structure 205 is the same as the groove bottom of the corresponding insertion groove 352. This ensures a sealed and waterproof environment, and at the same time, when the foam generator 114 is engaged with the engagement structure 205, the wavy insertion groove 352 enables pre-positioning, making it easy to align the corresponding positions of the engagement structure 205 and the insertion groove 352. Furthermore, the fitting of the bottom of the insertion groove and the shape of the extended end of the engagement structure can also provide horizontal restriction to the foam generator 114, thereby avoiding horizontal oscillation or displacement of the foam generator 114.
[0245] In the embodiment of the present invention, the support structures 351 located at the bottom and on both sides of the foam generator 114 are installed extending horizontally and vertically, respectively.
[0246] In an embodiment of the present invention, the water supply channel 100 in the portion where at least the foam generator 114 is provided is divided into a lower groove body and an upper groove body that engage with each other along the vertical direction. Engaging structures 205 that protrude inward from each other are installed on the groove walls and groove bottoms of each groove body.
[0247] When both grooves are engaged, they form an annular engagement structure 205. When the foam generator 114 is installed, first the foam generator 114 is installed on one of the grooves, and then the other groove is engaged with it, and at the same time the engagement structure 205 on the other groove is inserted and engaged with the corresponding insertion groove 352.
[0248] In an embodiment of the present invention, the water supply channel 100 is installed on the top of the water case 1. Upward-projecting convex ribs are installed on the top wall of the water case 1, and each convex rib of the water case 1 surrounds the lower groove body. An end cover is engaged with the top of the water case 1, and a recessed groove with a downward-facing opening is installed inside the end cover. The top of the recessed groove of the end cover is sealed and connected to the top of the groove of the lower groove body.
[0249] In an embodiment of the present invention, the passage area of the water inlet channel 100 at the outlet end of the foam generator 114 is larger than the passage area at the outlet end of the foam generator 114.
[0250] A foaming phenomenon occurs in the mixed liquid after the gas is mixed in. By increasing the passage area, the generated foam is contained, and it is prevented that excess foam will increase resistance in the waterway and affect the flow of the mixed liquid.
[0251] In an embodiment of the present invention, the input water supply channel 100 comprises at least a drainage channel section 203 used to guide the mixed liquid from the additive input device, and a foaming channel section 202 located upstream of the drainage channel section 203 and equipped with a foam generator 114, wherein the width of the input end of the foaming channel section 202 is greater than the width of the outlet end of the drainage channel section 203.
[0252] In an embodiment of the present invention, the foaming channel section 202 is divided sequentially into a first pipe section 202a and a second pipe section 202b in the direction of flow of the mixed liquid. The first pipe section 202a is used to provide a space for housing the foam generator 114, and the height of the first pipe section 202a is higher than the height of the drainage channel section 203. The top of the second pipe section 202b extends downward from the first pipe section 202a to the drainage channel section 203.
[0253] In this embodiment of the present invention, both ends of the second pipe section 202b are connected flush with the first pipe section 202a and the drainage channel section 203, respectively.
[0254] With the aforementioned configuration, the inclined top of the second pipe section 202b ensures that the foaming channel section 202 has sufficient space to accommodate the foam, and at the same time, the configuration in which the passage area of the channel gradually decreases accelerates the mixed liquid and ensures the flow velocity of the mixed liquid as it flows through the inlet water supply channel 100.
[0255] In an embodiment of the present invention, the water supply channel 100 is provided with a mixing section 112 upstream of the foam generator 114. The mixing section 112 is equipped with a mixing structure that mixes the passing liquid mixture.
[0256] With the aforementioned configuration, the mixing structure within the mixing unit 112 makes the distribution of additives in the mixed liquid more uniform, allowing the additives to dissolve sufficiently in the mixed liquid. This improves the foaming effect of the foam generator 114.
[0257] In an embodiment of the present invention, a plurality of mixing units 112 are installed sequentially in the direction of extension of the water supply channel 100. The outlet of each mixing unit 112 serves as the inlet of the adjacent mixing unit 112 downstream, and by sequentially stirring the mixture through the plurality of mixing units 112, it is ensured that the additive can be completely dissolved in the mixture before it enters the foam generator 114.
[0258] In an embodiment of the present invention, the mixing structure includes a mixing impeller 400. The mixing impeller 400 is rotatably installed within the mixing section 112, with its axis perpendicular to the bottom wall of the mixing section 112. Outwardly extending blades are spaced apart in the circumferential direction and premix the passing mixture by rotating around a rotation axis 401. The inlet and outlet of the mixing section 112 are oriented in contact with the outer circumference of the mixing impeller 400, thereby stirring the additive by the mixing impeller 400 and ensuring thorough dissolution. Furthermore, the placement of the inlet and outlet extends the time the mixture remains in the mixing section 112, further improving the mixing effect, as the mixture travels a long distance within the mixing section 112 before being discharged due to the pushing of the outer edge of the mixing impeller 400.
[0259] In this embodiment of the present invention, the rotating shaft 401 is a driven shaft rotatably installed within the mixing section 112. No rotating assembly connected to the rotating shaft 401 and used to drive the rotation of the rotating shaft 401 is installed inside the water case 1. The water turbine rotates due to the push of the mixed liquid, saving power consumption, reducing the number of devices installed inside the water case 1, simplifying the internal structure of the water case 1, and reducing the overall volume of the water case 1.
[0260] In an embodiment of the present invention, an upwardly projecting buffer step 204 is installed on the bottom wall of the water supply channel 100 between the mixing unit 112 and the foam generator 114.
[0261] Immediately after the mixed liquid enters the mixing section 112, the amount of dissolved additives in the mixed liquid is unstable, and the impeller is in a stagnant or low-speed rotation state, making it impossible to effectively agitate the mixed liquid immediately after entry. However, the buffer step 204 acts as a barrier, causing the mixed liquid in that section to recirculate or be buffered. As a result, the mixed liquid in that section mixes with the mixed liquid that flows through subsequently. Consequently, the additive content and dissolved amount in the mixed liquid in that section are equalized, improving the foaming effect of the foam generator 114 on the mixed liquid immediately after entry.
[0262] In an embodiment of the present invention, a negative pressure water supply channel 500 is further installed inside the water case 1 and is used to guide the water flow into the interior of the water case 1. The detergent case 7 is used to store additives. A negative pressure structure is connected in series on the negative pressure water supply channel 500, and the negative pressure structure has a negative pressure port 5031, which can create a negative pressure at the negative pressure port position by utilizing the water flow passing through it. The negative pressure structure is any conventional structure that can achieve the above function, for example, a venturi tube 503. The inlet end of the negative pressure structure communicates with the negative pressure water supply channel 500, and the outlet end opposite it communicates with the inlet end of the water supply channel 100. The negative pressure port of the negative pressure structure communicates with the storage chamber 21 of the detergent case 7, which is used to store additives.
[0263] As shown in Figures 1-14, this embodiment describes a garment processing facility. The garment processing facility includes a washing cylinder 4 used to provide a space for storing garments. An additive dispensing device is installed inside the garment processing facility. The outlet end of the water supply channel 100 is connected to a spray structure, which extends into the washing cylinder 4, and the nozzle of the spray structure is positioned facing into the washing cylinder 4. [Examples]
[0264] As shown in Figures 15 to 22, the switching mechanism 7', i.e., the ventilation valve assembly, is introduced in the embodiment of the present invention.
[0265] In this embodiment, an air outlet 22' and a ventilation 10' are installed on the washing machine loading device. The air outlet 22' and ventilation 10' communicate with the washing machine's cylindrical assembly via a common conduit. A switching chamber 3' is installed between the common conduit and the air outlet 22' and ventilation 10', and vents 303' are installed on two adjacent chamber walls of the switching chamber 3', respectively, to connect to the air outlet 22' and ventilation 10'. A switching mechanism 7' is installed on the switching chamber 3', and the switching mechanism 7' is used to control whether the common conduit communicates with the air outlet 22' or with the ventilation 10'.
[0266] As shown in Figures 15 to 18, in this embodiment, the switching mechanism 7' comprises an airflow switching plate 73' and a motor 71' used to drive and switch the airflow switching plate 73'. The airflow switching plate 73' is installed in the switching chamber 3' and comprises a flap 732' used to close the ventilation opening 303' and a pivot shaft 731' used for the flap 732 to rotate. The airflow switching plate 73' is hinged to the chamber wall of the switching chamber 3' via the pivot shaft 731', and the axis of the pivot shaft 731' is the rotation center of the airflow switching plate 73'. One end of the pivot shaft 731' of the airflow switching plate 73' penetrates the chamber wall of the switching chamber 3' and is connected to the operating end of the motor 71'. The operating end of the aforementioned motor 71' drives the aforementioned airflow switching plate 73' to rotate within the switching chamber 3', thereby switching the airflow path.
[0267] The aforementioned switching chamber 3' is a closed cavity, and comprises at least a first chamber wall corresponding to the aforementioned air outlet 22' and a second chamber wall corresponding to the aforementioned ventilation 10'. Ventilation openings 303' are provided in the central parts of the aforementioned first and second chamber walls, respectively, for communication with the air outlet 22' and ventilation 10'. The aforementioned first and second chamber walls are installed so as to surround the rotation center of the aforementioned airflow switching plate 73', and the inner wall surfaces of the aforementioned first and second chamber walls are flat. The ventilation openings 303' on the aforementioned first and second chamber walls both correspond to the flaps 732 of the airflow switching plate 73'.
[0268] The chamber walls of the aforementioned switching chamber 3' are installed on both sides of the first and second chamber walls, and further include side chamber walls perpendicular to the rotation center of the pivot shaft 731'. The aforementioned pivot shaft 731' is installed at the corner position of the first and second chamber walls.
[0269] The side of the motor 71' on which the operating end is installed is the front end of the motor 71'. The front end of the motor 71' is installed facing the side chamber wall of the switching chamber 3', and a through hole is provided on the side chamber wall on the side closer to the motor 71' for the end of the pivot shaft 731' to pass through.
[0270] In this embodiment, a shaft sleeve 7313' coaxial with the pivot shaft 731' is installed at one end of the pivot shaft 731' closest to the motor 71'. The shaft sleeve 7313' is fitted onto the operating end of the motor 71' and connected to the operating end of the motor 71' in a circumferential manner. Specifically, a flat surface is provided on the circumferential wall of the operating end of the motor 71'. A groove is provided inside the shaft sleeve 7313' that conforms to the shape of the operating end of the motor 71'. The groove is fitted onto the operating end, achieving circumferential positioning between the operating end and the shaft sleeve 7313'.
[0271] As shown in FIGS. 15 and 18, in this embodiment, a protective cover 72' is installed outside the aforementioned motor 71'. The aforementioned protective cover 72' covers at least the front end of the motor 71' and is used to prevent high-temperature steam flowing out from the position of the through hole on the side wall of the side chamber of the switching chamber 3' from contacting the motor 71'.
[0272] In this embodiment, the aforementioned shaft sleeve 7313' covers the front end and the circumferential side of the aforementioned motor 71'. An attachment port is installed on one side of the aforementioned shaft sleeve 7313' far from the switching chamber 3', and the aforementioned motor 71' is installed in the aforementioned shaft sleeve 7313' through the aforementioned attachment port.
[0273] Preferably, in this embodiment, the aforementioned shaft sleeve 7313' is made of a hard heat-insulating material. The aforementioned motor 71' is screwed and installed in the aforementioned shaft sleeve 7313', and the aforementioned shaft sleeve 7313' is screwed and installed outside the switching chamber 3'. Specifically, the aforementioned shaft sleeve 7313' is screwed and installed on the loading device of the washing machine.
[0274] In this embodiment, one side of the aforementioned protective cover 72' corresponding to the front end of the motor 71' is the front side of the protective cover 72'. At least a part of the front side of the aforementioned protective cover 72' has a sealing portion 721' extending along the outer circumference of the rotating shaft 731'. Specifically, at least a part of the aforementioned sealing portion 721' extends along the outer circumference of the aforementioned shaft sleeve 7313'. A sealing device is installed between the outer wall of the aforementioned shaft sleeve 7313' and the inner wall of the sealing portion 721'.
[0275] Preferably, in this embodiment, the aforementioned sealing portion 721' extends in a direction approaching the switching chamber 3' from the front side of the protective cover 72'. The aforementioned sealing portion 721' covers the entire outer circumference of the shaft sleeve 7313', and the end of the aforementioned sealing portion 721' abuts against the side wall of the side chamber of the aforementioned switching chamber 3'.
[0276] In this embodiment, an axial positioning structure is installed between the aforementioned pivot shaft 731' and the switching chamber 3'. The end of the aforementioned shaft sleeve 7313' abuts against the front side of the protective cover 72'.
[0277] Preferably, as shown in Figure 15, a mounting groove corresponding to the sealing portion 721' is provided on the outside of the chamber wall of the switching chamber 3', and the shape of the mounting groove conforms to the shape of the end of the sealing portion 721'. One end of the sealing portion 721' closest to the switching chamber 3' is inserted into the insertion groove.
[0278] In this embodiment, the aforementioned sealing device includes a seal ring 74'. The seal ring 74' is installed between the outer peripheral wall of the shaft sleeve 7313' and the inner wall of the sealing portion 721', sealing the fitting gap between them. A sealing portion 721' extending to the outer circumference of the pivot shaft 731' is installed at the front end of the protective cover 72', and the sealing device is installed between the inner wall of the sealing portion 721' and the outer wall of the pivot shaft 731'. This achieves dynamic sealing between the pivot shaft 731' and the protective cover 72', preventing high-temperature steam from coming into contact with the operating end of the motor 71' and, consequently, from flowing into the motor 71'. This prevents high-temperature steam generated during the operation of the washing machine from affecting the operating stability of the motor 7' of the switching mechanism 7'.
[0279] In this embodiment, a seal groove 7314' extending in the circumferential direction of the shaft sleeve 7313' is installed on the outer wall of the shaft sleeve 7313', and the seal ring 74' is fitted into the seal groove 7314'. The radial thickness of the seal ring 74' is greater than or equal to the difference between the inner radius of the sealing portion 721' and the radius of the groove bottom of the seal groove 7314'. Specifically, the inner diameter of the seal ring 74' is less than or equal to the diameter of the groove bottom of the seal groove 7314', and the outer diameter of the seal ring 74' is less than or equal to the inner diameter of the sealing portion 721. The inner circumferential wall of the seal ring 74' elastically contacts the groove bottom of the seal groove 7314', and there is elastic contact between the outer wall of the seal ring 74' and the inner wall of the sealing portion 721'.
[0280] Preferably, in this embodiment, the axial length of the seal ring 74' is greater than or equal to the groove width of the seal groove 7314', and the seal ring 74' and the seal groove 7314' are tightly fitted together.
[0281] As shown in Figures 21 and 22, in some possible embodiments, the axial cross-section of the seal ring 74' is Y-shaped. Specifically, the seal ring 74' comprises a first portion 741', a second portion 742', and a third portion 743' which are integrally molded. The first portion 741' extends axially from the shaft sleeve 7313', and the second portion 742' and the third portion 743' are molded on the same side of the first portion 741' and extend inclined axially. The second portion 742' extends axially from the end of the first portion 741', inclined toward one side away from the axis. The third portion 743' extends axially from the connection point between the first portion 741' and the second portion 742', inclined toward one side closer to the axis.
[0282] In this embodiment, the outer diameter of the first portion 741' is less than or equal to the outer diameter of the shaft sleeve 7313', and the inner diameter of the first portion 741' is less than or equal to the diameter of the bottom of the seal groove 7314'. The seal ring 74' elastically contacts the inner wall of the sealing portion 721' via the second portion 742' of the seal ring 74', and the seal ring 74' elastically contacts the bottom of the seal groove 7314' via the third portion 743' of the seal ring 74'.
[0283] In this embodiment, the end faces of the second portion 742' and the third portion 743' are on the same plane.
[0284] Preferably, in this embodiment, the second portion 742' and the third portion 743' are installed on one side of the first portion 741' that is closer to the switching chamber 3'.
[0285] Preferably, in this embodiment, the thickness of the first portion 741' of the seal ring 74' is greater than the thickness of the second portion 742' and greater than the thickness of the third portion 743'. More preferably, the thickness of the second portion 742' is equal to the thickness of the third portion 743' and at the same time equal to half the thickness of the first portion 741'.
[0286] In several other possible embodiments, a second portion 742' and a third portion 743' are provided at both ends of the aforementioned first portion 741', respectively, each having a V-shaped axial cross-section.
[0287] Preferably, in this embodiment, a plurality of the aforementioned seal grooves 7314' are installed, arranged at intervals along the axial direction of the shaft sleeve 7313', and one or more seal rings 74' are installed in each of the aforementioned seal grooves 7314'.
[0288] Preferably, in this embodiment, two seal grooves 7314' are installed, spaced apart in the axial direction of the shaft sleeve 7313', with two seal rings 74' installed in the seal groove 7314' closer to the switching chamber 3', and one seal ring 74' installed in the seal groove 7314' further away from the switching chamber 3'.
[0289] In this embodiment, a flap 732' extending radially from the pivot shaft 731' is installed on the aforementioned pivot shaft 731'. The aforementioned flap 732' has a first position in which it is in close contact with the first chamber wall and closes the ventilation opening 303' on the first chamber wall, and a second position in which it is in close contact with the second chamber wall and closes the ventilation opening 303' on the second chamber wall.
[0290] Preferably, in this embodiment, the first chamber wall and the second chamber wall are installed adjacent to each other, and the space between the first chamber wall and the second chamber wall is perpendicular to each other. An axial hole 305' corresponding to the pivot shaft 731' is provided at the corner position of the first chamber wall and the second chamber wall. At least a portion of the pivot shaft 731' is fitted into the axial hole 305' and is fitted axially restricted between it and the axial hole 305'.
[0291] Specifically, at least one circumferential radial protrusion extending in the circumferential direction of the rotation shaft 731' is provided on the rotation shaft 731'. A limiting groove 306' adapted to the radial protrusion is provided on the inner wall of the shaft hole 305'. The aforementioned radial protrusion is engaged in the aforementioned limiting groove 306' to achieve axial positioning between the rotation shaft 731' and the switching chamber 3'.
[0292] Preferably, in this embodiment, a rotatable fitting is provided between the end of the rotation shaft 731' far from the motor 71' and the side chamber wall on the side far from the motor of the switching chamber 3'. Specifically, the end of the rotation shaft 731' far from the motor 71' is inserted into the chamber wall of the switching chamber 3 on the side far from the motor 71', and the flap 732' is installed at the central part of the rotation shaft 731'. Thereby, the guiding effect of the switching chamber 3 on the rotation of the rotation shaft 731' is further improved, and the stability of the rotation of the air duct switching plate 73' is improved.
[0293] In this embodiment, the aforementioned radial protrusions include at least two provided on the rotation shaft 731' on both sides of the flap 732'.
[0294] Specifically, the aforementioned radial protrusions include two provided on the rotation shaft 731' on both sides of the flap 732', including a first radial protrusion 7311' provided on the side of the flap 732' close to the motor 71' and a second radial protrusion 7312' provided on the side of the flap 732' far from the motor 71'. The aforementioned first radial protrusion 7311' is provided on both sides of the side chamber wall, with a gap between it and the side chamber wall. The aforementioned second radial protrusion 7312' is provided at the end of the end of the rotation shaft 731' far from the motor 71', and at least a part of the end of the end of the rotation shaft 731' far from the motor 71' is inserted into the side chamber wall on the side far from the motor 71' of the switching chamber 3'.
[0295] Preferably, a through hole is drilled in the side chamber wall of the switching chamber 3' on the side furthest from the motor 71'. The end face of the second radial projection 7312' is flush with the outer wall surface of the side chamber wall. A blocking surface is further provided on the outside of the side chamber wall to block the second radial projection 7312'. The blocking surface and the through hole in the side chamber wall constitute a limiting groove 306' that fits the second radial projection 7312'.
[0296] Preferably, in this embodiment, the diameter of the first radial projection 7311' is greater than or equal to the diameter of the second radial projection 7312', and the axial length of the first radial projection 7311' is less than or equal to the axial length of the second radial projection 7312'.
[0297] Preferably, in this embodiment, the switching chamber 3' has a separable structure and comprises a switching chamber body 301' and a closure cover 302' that is removablely installed on the outside of the switching chamber body 301'. The closure cover 302' is installed at the corners of the first chamber wall and the second chamber wall.
[0298] Openings 304' are provided on the aforementioned switching chamber body 301' at positions corresponding to the corners of the first and second chamber walls. A closing cover 302' is used to close these openings 304'. The shaft hole 305' is installed on the closing cover 302', and the thickness of the flap 732' is less than or equal to the width of the opening 304'.
[0299] Specifically, the first and second side walls of the switching chamber 3' are spaced apart, and the spaced portion constitutes the opening 304'. An arc-shaped groove is installed on the closing cover 302' at a position corresponding to the opening 304'. The inner diameter of the arc-shaped groove matches the outer diameter of the pivot shaft 731', and when the closing cover 302' is engaged with the opening 304', the arc-shaped groove corresponds to the opening 304' and constitutes the shaft hole 305' of the pivot shaft 731'. The flap 732' extends from the opening 304' and rotates with the pivot shaft 731' to close the ventilation opening 303' on the first or second chamber wall.
[0300] In this embodiment, a switching chamber 3' is provided, which includes a switching chamber body 301' and a detachable closing cover 302' installed on the outside of the switching chamber body 301'. By providing an axial hole 305' on the closing cover 302', the airflow switching plate 73' can be attached to and detached from the opening 304' on the switching chamber body 301'. This allows the operator to conveniently inspect, repair, and maintain the switching mechanism 7'.
[0301] As shown in Figure 18, in this embodiment, the aforementioned flap 732' comprises a plate-shaped flap body 7321' and a rubber cover 7322' fitted to the outside of the flap body 7321'. Seal protrusions corresponding to the ventilation openings 303' on the first and second chamber walls are installed on the aforementioned rubber cover 7322'.
[0302] In this embodiment, the aforementioned sealing ridge is installed so as to surround the corresponding ventilation opening 303', and the aforementioned sealing ridge extends outward from the side surface of the rubber cover 7322'. When the aforementioned airflow switching plate 73' moves to the first position, the sealing ridge on the first side surface of the aforementioned flap 732' comes into contact with the first chamber wall, and when the aforementioned airflow switching plate 73' moves to the second position, the sealing ridge on the second side surface of the aforementioned flap 732' comes into contact with the second chamber wall.
[0303] Preferably, in this embodiment, a flat portion 7324' is provided on the pivot axis 731' between the two radial projections. The aforementioned flap body 7321' extends perpendicularly from the center of the flat portion 7324'. A mounting groove 7323' is provided around the edge of the flap body 7321, and the rubber cover 7322' is fitted onto the mounting groove 7323' of the flap body 7321'.
[0304] Specifically, in this embodiment, the aforementioned mounting groove 7323' is installed so as to surround the circumferential side of the flap body 7321' and is formed as a recess from the first side surface of the flap body 7321' toward the second side surface of the flap body 7321'. The aforementioned mounting groove 7323' is annular. A positioning portion is formed on the first side surface within the range surrounded by the aforementioned mounting groove 7323'. The aforementioned rubber cover 7322' is installed so as to surround the positioning portion, and the aforementioned rubber cover 7322' is installed so as to surround the flap body 7321'.
[0305] In this embodiment, the aforementioned rubber cover 7322' surrounds the positioning portion and is fitted into the aforementioned mounting groove 7323', and the first side surface of the aforementioned rubber cover 7322' is co-plane with the end surface of the positioning portion.
[0306] The aforementioned rubber cover 7322' surrounds both the left and right sides of the aforementioned flap body 7321 and the side of the flap body 7321' that is far from the flat portion 7324', and the second side surface of the aforementioned rubber cover 7322' is on the same plane as the second side surface of the aforementioned flap body 7321'.
[0307] Preferably, in this embodiment, at least a portion of the aforementioned mounting groove 7323' extends onto the flat portion 7324'.
[0308] In this embodiment, the aforementioned rubber cover 7322' is fitted onto the aforementioned flap body 7321' along the direction from the first side surface of the flap 732' to the second side surface of the flap 732'. By installing the flap 732', which includes the flap body 7321' and the rubber cover 7322', the airflow switching plate 73' closes the ventilation openings 303' on the first and second chamber walls via the rubber cover 7322', ensuring the airtightness of the airflow switching plate 73' to the ventilation openings 303' and improving the operational stability of the switching mechanism 7. [Examples]
[0309] In one embodiment, as shown in Figures 23 to 31, the washing machine dispensing device according to the present invention includes a water case 1. Inside the aforementioned water case 1, there is an injection water channel, which is used to guide the mixed liquid to be dispensed, containing the additive. Here, the water case 1 includes a water case panel 11' installed on the front side of the washing machine housing. The surface of the water case panel 11' is level with the surface of the front side of the housing. As a result, the front side of the washing machine is visually more compact and aesthetically pleasing.
[0310] Conventional technology involves installing a ventilation device on top of the washing machine and connecting various air passages via hoses to prevent the generation of unpleasant odors inside the washing machine's cylindrical assembly 8' due to not promptly opening the door and hanging clothes after the wash cycle is complete, or not running the washing machine for extended periods. However, the installation of numerous hoses and the difficulty in maintaining their shape due to the hose materials themselves hinder smooth ventilation, affecting the effectiveness of outside air exchange.
[0311] To address the aforementioned shortcomings, the present invention has been made to the extent described above.
[0312] The aforementioned water case 1 has an outlet 13' on its front side.
[0313] The outside air circuit 2' is installed inside the water case 1, with one end communicating with the outside and the other end communicating with the outlet 13' via the washing machine's cylinder assembly 8'. It is used to introduce outside air into the washing machine's cylinder assembly 8' and then discharge it from the outlet 13'.
[0314] In the present invention, an outlet 13' of the side wall of the water case 1 is installed on the water case panel 11' of the water case 1, and the outlet 13' extends along the lateral direction to one side or both sides, and the formed outlet 13' has an elongated shape.
[0315] An outside air circuit 2' is installed inside the water case 1. In this circuit, both ends of the outside air circuit 2' are connected to the outside and to the outlet 13' via the inside of the cylindrical assembly 8'. This forms an outside air circulation system that introduces outside air into the cylindrical assembly 8' via the outside air circuit 2' and discharges it to the outside via the outlet 13' installed on the front side of the water case 1. The outside air circuit 2 is integrally installed inside the water case 1, its airflow direction is fixed, and it is only necessary to connect the ends of the outside air circuit 2' to the inside of the cylindrical assembly 8', so there is no need to realize an airflow path with fluid communication throughout, as in conventional technology, which requires numerous hoses. Therefore, it is possible to guarantee that the overall path is fixed, in which outside air is taken in, introduced into the cylindrical assembly 8', and discharged from inside the cylindrical assembly 8' via the outlet 13' on the front side of the water case 1, thereby ensuring smooth airflow and improving the effectiveness of outside air exchange.
[0316] Furthermore, since an externally exposed air outlet 13' is installed on the front of the water case 1, the user can directly observe the air outlet 13' during the outside air circulation process. By combining this with tactile sensation, the user can grasp the progress of the outside air exchange program, making the entire outside air exchange program more intuitive.
[0317] Furthermore, the outside air circuit 2' includes a blower air passage 21' and an outlet air passage 22'.
[0318] An intake fan 4' is connected to the first air outlet end of the aforementioned air duct 21'. The first outlet end of the aforementioned air duct 21' communicates with the washing machine's cylinder assembly 8' and is used to draw outside air into the washing machine's cylinder assembly 8' through the action of a pressure difference.
[0319] The second air outlet end of the aforementioned air outlet passage 22' is connected to the cylindrical assembly 8' of the washing machine, and the second discharge end of the aforementioned air outlet passage 22' is connected to the outlet 13' of the water case 1, and is used to draw out the mixed air inside the cylindrical assembly 8' of the washing machine from the outlet 13' of the water case 1.
[0320] In the present invention, a blower air passage 21' and a discharge air passage 22' are integrally installed inside the water case 1. Here, the blower air passage 21' and the discharge air passage 22' may be independent metal conduit structures connected to the inside of the water case 1 as described above, or they may form recessed, semi-closed passages on the inner wall of the water case 1, and further, by closing the entire water case 1 via the water case cover 12', a complete blower air passage 21' and a discharge air passage 22' may be formed.
[0321] Here, an intake fan 4' is connected to the first air outlet end (one side plate close to the water case 1) of the air duct 21'. The air duct 21' extends laterally along the longitudinal direction of the water case 1, and the air outlet of the intake fan 4 is connected to the air duct 21' via the first fan conduit 41'. The first discharge end of the air duct 21' is connected to the inside of the cylinder assembly 8' via the second fan conduit 42'. The entire air duct 21' extends along the axial direction of the cylinder assembly 8' and is installed at the cylinder opening position close to the connection point between the second fan conduit 42' and the cylinder assembly 8'.
[0322] Furthermore, the second air outlet end of the discharge air passage 22' is located at the bottom of the cylindrical assembly 8' and connected, and the second discharge end of the discharge air passage 22' is located near the water case 1 and connected to the outlet 13' of the water case 1. The overall outside air flow path is configured to proceed from the outside in the following order: through the air supply air passage 21', the opening of the cylindrical assembly 8', the bottom of the cylindrical assembly 8', and the discharge air passage 22', before being discharged from the outlet 13' of the water case 1, thus forming an outside air circulation system. This allows outside air to be effectively exchanged through the entire cylindrical assembly 8' before being discharged to the outside. Here, if the airflow direction of the discharge air passage 22' and the air supply air passage 21' is the same, the connection positions between the entire outside air circuit 2' and the cylindrical assembly 8' and the outlet 13' of the water case 1 can be optimized, reducing the number and length of hoses. This ensures smooth outside air flow and improves the effectiveness of outside air exchange.
[0323] Furthermore, a first air guide pipe 5' is installed between the second outlet end and the outlet 13', and an air guide cover 51' is installed at the end of the first air guide pipe 5' and is inserted into the outlet 13'.
[0324] The airflow area of the aforementioned air guide cover 51' is larger than the airflow area of the first air guide pipe 5'.
[0325] In this invention, a guide cover 51' is connected to the end of the first guide pipe 5', which is installed between the second outlet end and the outlet 13'. A plug-in method is used to connect the cover opening of the guide cover 51' to the outlet 13', enabling quick connection to the outlet 13'.
[0326] Furthermore, the area of the airflow region formed by the cavity inside the air guide cover 51' and the airflow region of the first air guide pipe 5' causes the airflow space to suddenly increase when the air inside the cylindrical assembly 8' is discharged through the air guide cover 51'. This allows the air to diffuse more widely to the outside, ensuring smooth discharge.
[0327] Furthermore, the airflow area of the air guide cover 51' gradually increases from the first air guide pipe 5' towards the outlet 13'.
[0328] In this invention, the airflow area of the air guide cover 51' gradually increases toward the cover opening, thereby forming at least a tapered slope inside the air guide cover 51'. As the area of the airflow area of the air guide cover 51' gradually increases, the pressure change when air is discharged from the first air guide pipe 5' does not become excessive, and the air flows more stably and smoothly. Furthermore, by forming a tapered slope inside the air guide cover 51', a certain guiding effect is provided to the flowing air, allowing the air to dissipate over a larger area within the air guide cover 51'.
[0329] Furthermore, the opening of the outlet 13' extends from the front to the rear of the water case 1 to form an insertion enclosure wall 131', and at least a portion of the insertion enclosure wall 131' is installed protruding from the rear side of the water case 1.
[0330] The air guide cover 51' is installed over the insertion enclosure wall 131'.
[0331] In this invention, the opening of the air intake port on the front side of the water case 1 gradually extends toward the rear. The side wall of the opening of the air intake port gradually extends to form a surrounding insertion wall 131', and at least a part of the insertion wall 131' is installed protruding toward the rear side of the water case 1, so that the air intake port has a certain extended portion toward the rear side of the water case 1. The cover opening of the air intake cover 51' is configured to have an opening shape that matches the insertion wall 131' formed as the air intake port protrudes toward the rear. As a result, the cover opening of the air intake cover 51' is fitted over the insertion wall 131', and by employing a tight fit between the two, the air intake cover 51' is prevented from easily falling off.
[0332] Furthermore, a limiting plate 132' extending to the rear is installed on the rear side of the water case 1. The limiting plate 132' is located on the outer periphery of the insertion enclosure 131' and is installed parallel to at least a portion of the enclosure wall of the insertion enclosure 131', forming a limiting opening used to prevent the air guide cover 51' from falling off the insertion enclosure 131'.
[0333] In the present invention, a limiting plate 132' is installed on the rear panel of the water case 1, protruding from the rear panel. The limiting plate 132' may be integrally injection molded, or it may be fixed to the rear panel of the water case 1 by welding or adhesive. Here, the limiting plate 132' is installed on the outside of the insertion enclosure 131' and is installed parallel to and opposite to one of the sides of the insertion enclosure 131. Furthermore, a limiting opening is defined between the limiting plate 132' and the insertion enclosure 131', and after the air guide cover 51' is installed over the insertion enclosure 131', the inside and outside of the air guide cover 51' are restricted by the side walls of the insertion enclosure 131' and the limiting plate 132', respectively, further ensuring robustness after the air guide cover 51' and the insertion enclosure 131' are connected.
[0334] Furthermore, the air duct 21' is installed at the bottom of the water case 1. A check valve is installed inside the air duct 21', and the fluid communication direction is directed from the intake fan 4' to the opening of the washing machine's cylinder assembly 8'.
[0335] In the present invention, the air duct 21' is installed at the bottom of the water case 1, and outside air flows along the longitudinal direction of the water case 1 from the bottom of the cylinder assembly 8' toward the cylinder opening. A check valve installed in the outside air flow path can ensure that outside air does not recirculate, or that air mixed inside the cylinder assembly 8' does not recirculate and contaminate the air duct 21'.
[0336] Furthermore, the air outlet passage 22' is installed on top of the water case 1, and there is a difference in height between the second air outlet end of the air outlet passage 22' and the first air outlet end of the air supply passage 21'. A vertical second air guide pipe 6' is installed between the second air outlet end of the air outlet passage 22 and the cylindrical assembly 8' of the washing machine.
[0337] Preferably, the second air guide tube 6' is a bellows tube.
[0338] In this invention, an air outlet passage 22' and an air blower passage 21' are installed on the upper and lower end surfaces of the water case 1, respectively. By providing a notch in the bottom of the water case 1, the second air blower end of the air outlet passage 22' is positioned closer to the water case cover 12'. As a result, there is a certain distance between the first air outlet end and the second air blower end of the air blower passage 21' at the bottom of the water case 1, and as a result, when the second air blower end is connected to the cylindrical assembly 8', there is a larger space for attaching the aforementioned second air guide pipe 6'.
[0339] Preferably, at least a portion of the aforementioned second air guide tube 6' is a bellows tube, and since the bellows tube has a certain degree of elasticity, connection between the first discharge end and the second intake end is easy. In the air guide state, slight deformation is possible depending on the situation, ensuring the service life of the second air guide tube 6'. Furthermore, since the second air guide tube 6' has wrinkles in the bellows tube section, even if some of the laundry foam overflows into the second air guide tube 6' during washing, the wrinkles can break up the large foam, causing the foam to burst and easily recirculate back into the cylindrical assembly 8'.
[0340] Furthermore, a ventilation air passage 10' is installed on top of the water case 1 and communicates with the inside of the cylindrical assembly 8'.
[0341] A downward-facing recessed switching chamber 3' is installed at the top of the water case 1, and a first ventilation hole 311' and a second ventilation hole 321' are installed above the switching chamber 3', which communicate with the discharge air passage 22' and the ventilation air passage 10', respectively.
[0342] A switching mechanism 7' is installed inside the switching chamber 3', which can alternately switch between the first ventilation hole 311' and the second ventilation hole 321' to enable fluid communication.
[0343] In this invention, a ventilation air passage 10' is further installed inside the water case 1. Both ends communicate with the inside of the water case 1 and the inside of the cylindrical assembly 8', respectively, and are used to ensure that the cylindrical assembly 8' balances with the air pressure of the water case 1 (the water case 1 is in communication with the outside) when detergent and tap water are poured into the cylindrical assembly 8' during washing. As a result, there is no pressure difference effect on the cylindrical assembly 8', making the pouring of detergent and tap water smoother.
[0344] Within the switching chamber 3' installed on the water case 1, there are first ventilation holes 311' and 321', which communicate with the air outlet passage 22' and the ventilation passage 10', respectively. Furthermore, the switching mechanism 7' alternately fluidizes the first ventilation holes 311 and 321'. As a result, the switching mechanism 7' can switch between different air passages according to the requirements of the washing machine's washing program, thereby fulfilling the requirements of the corresponding washing program.
[0345] The present invention further provides a washing machine having a dispensing device as described in any of the above. The aforementioned outlet 13' is installed exposed on the front panel of the dispensing device. That is, the outlet 13' is completely exposed to the outside relative to the front of the washing machine. Specifically, the front panel of the dispensing device is fitted into the front of the washing machine, and the outlet 13' is installed on the panel close to the lower gap between the dispensing device and the front of the washing machine. That is, the front panel of the dispensing device is fitted into the front of the washing machine, and here the outlet 13' is installed on the panel of the dispensing device close to the lower gap on the front of the washing machine.
[0346] During the circulation of outside air, the user can directly observe the outlet 13' with their eyes and, by combining this with tactile sensation, grasp the progress of the outside air exchange program, making the entire outside air exchange program more intuitive. When the washing machine completes a washing program, or when it has not been in operation for a long period and requires outside air exchange treatment for the internal cylinder assembly 8', the outside air circuit 2' utilizes the action of the intake fan 4' to introduce outside air into the cylinder assembly 8, and the mixed air is discharged through the outlet 13' on the front side of the water case 1, thereby constantly circulating outside air and purifying the inside of the cylinder assembly 8'. Furthermore, the user can intuitively feel the progress of the outside air circulation program through the outlet 13'.
[0347] During the washing cycle of the washing machine, when adding detergent or tap water, the addition of detergent or tap water can be ensured by ensuring that the atmospheric pressure inside the cylindrical assembly 8' matches the atmospheric pressure outside by creating fluid communication in the ventilation air passage 10' within the water case 1. Furthermore, if a large amount of foam is generated during the washing stage, the foam can overflow directly into the water tank of the water case 1 via the ventilation air passage 10' and be discharged to the outside, preventing the overflowed foam from spilling between the housing and the cylindrical assembly 8' and contaminating the inside of the housing.
[0348] For another preferred embodiment, please refer to Figures 23-25 and 29-31. The washing machine dispensing device described in the present invention comprises a water case 1 used for supplying water or detergent into the inside of a cylindrical assembly 8', the water case 1 further comprising an outlet air passage 22' and a ventilation air passage 10'.
[0349] Here, the aforementioned air outlet passage 22' is connected to the outside and is used to discharge the air inside the cylindrical assembly 8' to the outside via the inside of the water case 1.
[0350] The aforementioned ventilation air passage 10' communicates with the inside of the water case 1, and connects the cylindrical assembly 8' with the inside of the water case 1, and is used to maintain atmospheric pressure equilibrium between the washing tub and the outside during washing.
[0351] In conventional water cases 1, an air outlet passage 22' and a ventilation passage 10' are generally installed integrally, with one end of each passage communicating with the inside of a cylindrical assembly 8'. The other end of the air outlet passage 22' communicates with the outside, introducing outside air into the cylindrical assembly 8', and then directing it back into the external environment via the air outlet passage 22' inside the water case 1, thereby ventilating the internal air of the cylindrical assembly 8'. On the other hand, the other end of the ventilation passage 10' communicates with the inside of the water case 1, where a water tank structure is installed at the bottom of the water case 1 and communicates with the external environment. As a result, the ventilation passage 10 can open both the inside and outside of the cylindrical assembly 8'. This ensures that the air pressure inside the cylindrical assembly 8' and the external atmospheric pressure remain in equilibrium during the execution of a washing program, guaranteeing the normal dispensing of detergent or tap water during the washing program without the effects of a pressure difference.
[0352] However, since the airflow paths of the outlet air passage 22' and the ventilation air passage 10' are relatively independent, the opening and closing of each air passage is controlled individually during operation. As a result, the structure and configuration of the washing machine's dispensing mechanism become complex and occupy a large amount of internal space.
[0353] To overcome the shortcomings of the aforementioned washing machine dispensing device, the present invention has made considerable improvements.
[0354] A switching section is installed between the aforementioned air outlet passage 22' and the ventilation passage 10' to connect them. A switching mechanism 7' is installed at the switching section, which can alternately switch between the air outlet passage 22' and the ventilation passage 10' to enable fluid communication.
[0355] In this invention, a discharge air passage 22' and a ventilation air passage 10' are integrally installed inside the water case 1, and there is an intersection in the flow path between the two air passages. A switching section that communicates with each other is installed at the intersection, and a switching mechanism 7' is installed inside which is used to alternately switch between the discharge air passage 22' and the ventilation air passage 10' to create fluid communication. This allows for flexible and convenient switching to the corresponding air passage to create fluid communication according to the actual requirements before and after washing inside the cylindrical assembly 8'.
[0356] Furthermore, by designing the outlet air passage 22' and the ventilation air passage 10' integrally on the water case 1, the two air passages share a common gas flow region, reducing the space occupied by the two air passages inside the water case 1.
[0357] Furthermore, the switching unit is installed above the water case 1 and includes at least a switching chamber 3' which is recessed downwards. A first ventilation hole 311' and a second ventilation hole 321' are installed above the switching chamber 3', which communicate with the discharge air passage 22' and the ventilation air passage 10', respectively.
[0358] The switching mechanism 7' can alternately connect the first ventilation hole 311' and the second ventilation hole 321' with fluid.
[0359] In this invention, a switching chamber 3' formed as a downward recess is installed in the upper part of the water case 1, and the switching chamber 3' has a first ventilation hole 311' and a second ventilation hole 321'. Here, a switching mechanism 7' is installed inside the switching chamber 3' and is used to perform alternating fluid communication operations to the first ventilation hole 311' and the second ventilation hole 321'. This controls the opening and closing of the first ventilation hole 311' and the second ventilation hole 321', thereby controlling the switching operation of the two air passages, and as a result, fulfilling the different requirements of the washing program in the cylindrical assembly 8'.
[0360] Furthermore, a partition plate 33' extending downward along the height direction is installed inside the switching chamber 3', dividing the switching chamber 3' into a first switching chamber 313' and a second switching chamber 323'. The first ventilation hole 311' is installed on the partition plate 33', and the second ventilation hole 321' is installed in the bottom wall of the second switching chamber 323'.
[0361] In this invention, a partition plate 33' extending vertically downward is installed in the intermediate portion of the switching chamber 3', dividing the entire switching chamber 3' into two chambers, which are designated as the first switching chamber 313' and the second switching chamber 323'. Specifically, a first ventilation hole 311' is installed on the partition plate 33' to provide fluid communication with the first switching chamber 313', and a second ventilation hole 321' is installed at the bottom of the second switching chamber 323', with the fluid communication directions of the two ventilation holes being perpendicular to each other. When ventilation work is performed, the second ventilation hole 321' is closed, and the mixed air, i.e., the air flowing out from inside the cylindrical assembly 8', passes through the second switching chamber 323', changes direction from the first ventilation hole 311', and flows out from inside the discharge air passage 22'. As the air changes direction through the second switching chamber 323', it comes into contact with the side wall of the switching chamber 3, and any contained water vapor condenses and accumulates in the second switching chamber 323', where it is temporarily stored, ensuring the separation of water vapor during ventilation operations.
[0362] Furthermore, the bottom wall of the first switching chamber 313' is set higher than the bottom wall of the second switching chamber 323', and the transition between the two is via a stepped surface.
[0363] In this invention, the bottom wall of the first switching chamber 313' is higher than the bottom wall of the second switching chamber 323', and the transition between them is via a vertical stepped surface. Here, the first ventilation hole 311' can be considered to be drilled in the partition plate 33 at a predetermined height (the height difference between the bottom walls of the two switching chambers 3') from the bottom wall of the second switching chamber 323'. During ventilation, the gas is temporarily stored in the second switching chamber 323' after some of the water vapor has condensed, so it does not overflow into the first switching chamber 313'. Furthermore, when a washing program is executed and foam enters the switching chamber 3', the height difference between the two switching chambers 3' effectively prevents the defoamed washing liquid from overflowing into the first switching chamber 313'. Finally, by creating fluid communication with the second ventilation hole 321', the temporarily stored liquid can be discharged into the water case 1 through the second ventilation hole 321'.
[0364] Furthermore, an intake interface 9' is installed above the water case 1, with one end communicating with the inside of the cylindrical assembly 8' via a second air guide tube, and the other end communicating with the second switching chamber 323'.
[0365] In this invention, an interface is installed inside the water case 1, connecting to the cylindrical assembly 8' via a second air guide pipe. Here, the second air guide pipe is installed vertically between the cylindrical assembly 8' and the water case 1. In the discharge air passage 22' and the ventilation air passage 10', the second air guide pipe serves as a common piping component for the intake of the two air passages, and both are further connected to the switching chamber 3' via a common intake interface 9'. This makes the overall connection design between the water case 1 and the cylindrical assembly 8' of the two air passages more integrated.
[0366] Furthermore, the intake interface 9' has a length that extends laterally above the water case 1, and the bottom of the intake interface 9' is installed with a gradual incline from the second switching chamber 323' towards the second air guide pipe.
[0367] In this invention, the entire intake interface 9' has a fixed length that extends laterally over the top of the water case 1, forming a common flow path between the discharge air passage 22' and the ventilation air passage 10', and extending to the switching chamber 3'. Furthermore, the entire extended portion of the intake interface 9' is gradually inclined downward from the switching chamber 3' toward one end of the second guide pipe, so that the entire intake interface 9' has a constant gradient. This further optimizes the placement of the paths of the two air passages within the water case 1, and in the event of overflow into the intake interface 9' via the second guide pipe during washing, the entire intake interface 9' provides a constant defoaming path, allowing a portion of the defoamed washing liquid to be returned to the cylindrical assembly 8'.
[0368] Furthermore, the lower wall inside the water case 1 is recessed downwards to form a flow channel. The aforementioned recess gradually slopes from one side of the water case 1 near the second ventilation hole 321' to the other side.
[0369] A guide hole 15' that communicates with the outside is installed at the lowest part of the recess in the guide channel.
[0370] In the present invention, a flow guide channel is recessed and installed on the inner wall of the bottom of the water case 1, and the flow guide channel is close to the joint between the bottom wall and the side wall of the water case 1. The opening at one end of the flow guide channel is located opposite the second ventilation hole 321', and when the second ventilation hole 321' is connected to the fluid, during washing, a portion of the overflowing laundry foam falls from the second ventilation hole 321' into the flow guide channel due to the rotation of the cylindrical assembly 8', and as a result it can flow through the inclined flow guide channel and be discharged from the flow guide hole 15' at the lowest position.
[0371] Furthermore, when adding detergent or tap water while a washing program is running inside the cylindrical assembly 8', it is necessary to fluidize the second ventilation hole 321' to ensure that the pressure inside the cylindrical assembly 8' is in equilibrium with the external atmospheric pressure, thereby connecting the cylindrical assembly 8' to the inside (outside) of the water case 1. This allows detergent or tap water to be smoothly added to the cylindrical assembly 8' without the influence of air pressure. Similarly, if high-temperature steam is generated during washing, it is necessary to fluidize the ventilation air passage 10' to maintain air pressure equilibrium inside the cylindrical assembly 8' in order to prevent the pressure inside the cylindrical assembly 8' from continuing to rise. In addition, any laundry foam that overflows during washing can also be discharged into the water case 1 through the second ventilation hole 321'.
[0372] Furthermore, a ventilation hole 14' is installed on the side wall of the water case 1, and the ventilation hole 14' is located above the flow guide hole 15'.
[0373] In this invention, a vent hole 14' is installed on the side wall of the water case 1 above the guide hole 15'. The vent hole 14' allows fluid communication between the inside of the water case 1 and the external environment. This ensures that the ventilation air passage 10' can open to the external environment when fluid communication is established, thereby achieving air pressure equilibrium between the cylindrical assembly 8' and the outside. Furthermore, because the vent hole 14' is positioned high, it prevents overflowing laundry liquid from directly overflowing from the vent hole 14' position and ensures that the overflowing laundry liquid can flow in a constant direction along the guide channel.
[0374] The above description is merely a preferred embodiment of the present invention and does not limit the present invention in any way. The present invention has already been disclosed as described above by preferred embodiments, but this is not intended to limit the present invention. Those skilled in the art can make equivalent embodiments by making minor changes or modifications to the technical content described above, without departing from the technical spirit of the present invention. However, any simple modifications, equivalent changes and modifications made to the above embodiments based on the technical essence of the present invention, without departing from the technical spirit of the present invention, still remain within the scope of the present invention. [Explanation of Symbols]
[0375] Explanation of the main components in the diagram: 1 Water case, 2 Detergent case, 3 Liquid injection channel, 4 Washing tube, 5 Check valve, 6 Water intake valve, 61 First water intake valve, 62 Second water intake valve, 7 Suction pump, 8 Water distribution branch, 9 Second water distribution branch, 11 Water storage tank, 12 Top cover, 13 Installation chamber, 21 Liquid storage chamber, 211 First liquid storage chamber, 212 Second liquid storage chamber, 100 Inlet water supply channel, 101 First water intake, 102 First water intake chamber, 1021 First water outlet, 1022 Second water outlet, 103 First connecting pipe, 104 Main water intake pipe, 105 Suction washing three-way switching valve, 1051 First inlet, 1052 Second inlet, 1053 Outlet, 106 Second connecting pipe, 107 Temporary storage section, 108 Flow meter, 109 Third connecting pipe, 110 Three-way liquid intake valve, 1101 First inlet, 1102 Second inlet, 1103 Outlet, 111 Connecting channel, 112 Mixing section, 1121 First stage mixing section, 1122 Secondary mixing section, 113 Negative pressure suction pipe, 1131 Negative pressure port, 114 Foam generator, 120 Drain passage, 121 Drain groove, 122 Drain pipe, 201 Transport water channel section, 202 Foaming water channel section, 202a First pipe section, 202b Second pipe section, 203 Drain water channel section, 204 Buffer step, 205 Engagement structure, 301 Foaming section, 311 Intake port, 312 Drain port, 321 Pressure boosting pipe section, 322 Pressure boosting chamber, 331 Intake pipe section, 332 Intake chamber, 333 Connecting pipe, 341 351 Connecting plate, 352 Support structure, 352 Insertion groove, 400 Mixing impeller, 401 Rotating shaft, 500 Negative pressure water supply channel, 501 Second intake, 502 Second intake chamber, 503 Venturi tube, 5031 Negative pressure port, 504 Second outlet chamber, 505 Second outlet, 506 Negative pressure chamber.