washing machine

Abstract

The washing machine includes a housing (1). A holder (4) is mounted within the housing (1) and supported by a vibration-damping member (9). The holder (4) is connected to the housing (1) via a flexible member (6) to surround a storage space. Connecting the holder (4) to the housing (1) via the flexible member (6) achieves the purpose of providing a storage space (2) for passing wash water within the washing machine housing (1). Furthermore, by directly integrating and installing the storage space (2) on the housing (1), the width of the storage space (2) is set to be equal to the size of the washing machine housing (1). This maximizes the size of the housing (1) and increases the washing capacity of the washing machine. Furthermore, by forming at least a portion of the storage space (2) using the flexible member (6), the elasticity of the flexible member (6) itself filters vibrations and displacements generated in the holder (4). This avoids the problem that the storage space (2) integrated in the housing (1) is subjected to the action of the vibration-damping member (9) and the storage space (2) is partially damaged.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention is in the field of clothes dryers, and more particularly to washing machines, in which the drum forms a sealed container during the wash. [Background technology]

[0002] In the prior art, a drum washing machine generally includes an inner tub and an outer tub fitted together. The outer tub is sealed and used to store water. Clothes are placed in the inner tub, and the inner tub is rotated to strike the clothes, thereby washing them. The inner tub is provided with a spin-dry hole, and water in the outer tub flows into the inner tub through the spin-dry hole to soak the clothes in the inner tub. The water in the inner tub flows out from the spin-dry hole to the outer tub. Water from the clothes in the inner tub is discharged from the spin-dry hole to the outer tub when the inner tub is rotated at high speed. In this way, the purpose of washing the clothes is achieved.

[0003] During the use of a washing machine, dirt easily accumulates between the inner and outer tubs. However, since the inner and outer tubs are fitted together, users have no way to clean the outer wall of the inner tub and the inner wall of the outer tub. This causes bacteria to grow inside the washing machine, reducing the washing efficiency of the washing machine and the cleanliness of the clothes after washing.

[0004] In addition, in the case of the above-mentioned conventional washing machine, the outer tub is covered on the outside of the inner tub, and during the washing process of the washing machine, the inner tub rotates to strike and wash the clothes. Therefore, the washing capacity of the washing machine is based on the inner tub. On the other hand, since the inner tub and the outer tub are fitted together, in order to prevent problems such as collisions between the inner tub and the outer tub and between the outer tub and the housing during the operation of the washing machine, it is necessary to leave a gap between the outer tub and the inner tub, and also a design gap between the outer tub and the housing. As a result, the drum size of the washing machine cannot be increased without changing the housing size of the washing machine. In other words, the washing capacity of the washing machine cannot be increased based on the conventional one.

[0005] In view of the above, the present invention is proposed. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0006] The technical problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide a washing machine that realizes the purpose of increasing the washing capacity of the washing machine in order to eliminate the defects of the prior art. Another object of the present invention is to provide a washing machine that realizes the purpose of increasing the washing capacity of the washing machine that does not require cleaning between the inner tub and the outer tub. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] In order to solve the above technical problems, the basic idea of ​​the technical solution adopted in the present invention is as follows:

[0008] The washing machine includes a housing. A holder is mounted in the housing and supported via a vibration-damping member. The holder is connected to the housing via a flexible member so as to surround an accommodating space.

[0009] The holder further includes a first support arm and a second support arm arranged vertically and spaced apart. Flexible members are connected to both the left and right sides of the first support arm and the second support arm, and the trough-like structure is surrounded by at least the flexible members, the first support arm and the second support arm. An accommodation space is defined inside the trough-like structure. An accommodation space is defined inside the trough-like structure.

[0010] Furthermore, the left and right sides of the first and second support arms are connected to the inner wall of the housing via different flexible members, and the first support arm, the second support arm, the flexible members, and the inner wall of the housing surround the tank-like structure, forming an accommodation space inside the tank-like structure.

[0011] Furthermore, the left sides of the first support arm and the second support arm are connected via a left flexible member, and the right sides of the first support arm and the second support arm are connected via a right flexible member, such that the first support arm, the second support arm, the left flexible member, and the right flexible member surround the tank-like structure, and the central portions of the left flexible member and the right flexible member are each connected to the inner wall of the corresponding side of the housing.

[0012] The holder further includes a vertically extending support member located at the rear end of the tub-like structure. The outer periphery of the support member is connected in a sealing manner to the inner periphery of the tub-like structure directly or via a flexible member, and is used to seal one end of the tub-like structure. The front end of the tub-like structure is provided with an annular dam portion that is bent toward the center.

[0013] Furthermore, the support members are fixedly connected to or integrally installed on the first support arm and the second support arm, respectively, and the rear side edge of the flexible member is sealingly connected to the support members.

[0014] Furthermore, both ends of the trough are hermetically connected to the inner wall of the housing, so that the inside of the trough forms a hermetically sealed storage space.

[0015] The vibration-damping member further includes a vibration-damping rod and / or a suspension spring that connects the holder and the housing. One end of the vibration-damping rod is connected to the support member and / or the second support arm of the holder. The vibration-damping rod extends downward until the other end is connected to the bottom wall and / or the side wall of the housing. One end of the suspension spring is connected to the support member and / or the first support arm of the holder. The suspension spring extends upward until the other end is connected to the top wall and / or the side wall of the housing.

[0016] The washing machine further includes a rotating tub in the housing. The rotating tub is mounted on the holder so as to be rotatable about an axis. The washing machine is preferably provided with a cover for opening and closing the opening of the rotating tub accordingly, and the rotating tub forms a sealed water storage tank when the washing machine is executing a washing program.

[0017] The rotating tub is further provided with an opening that connects the interior of the rotating tub to the storage space. A centrifugal valve is provided at the opening of the rotating tub to open the opening by utilizing centrifugal force generated during rotation when the rotation speed of the rotating tub reaches a predetermined rotation speed.

[0018] The rotary tub and the drive motor are provided on both sides of the support member. The rotary tub is located within the tub-like structure. The motor shaft of the drive motor is inserted through the support member and coaxially connected to the center of the bottom of the rotary tub. Preferably, a water seal is provided at the bottom of the rotary tub where the motor shaft is inserted.

[0019] By using the above technical solutions, the present invention has the following beneficial effects compared with the prior art:

[0020] By connecting the holder to the housing via a flexible member, the objective of providing an accommodating space for passing wash water within the housing of the washing machine is achieved. Moreover, by directly integrating and integrating the accommodating space into the housing, the width of the accommodating space is set to be equal to the size of the housing of the washing machine. This achieves a significant technical advancement of maximizing the size of the housing and increasing the washing capacity of the washing machine. In addition, by forming at least a part of the accommodating space from a flexible member, the elasticity of the flexible member itself filters the vibration and displacement occurring in the holder. This avoids the situation where the accommodating space integrated into the housing is subjected to the action of the vibration-damping member, and prevents the problem of partial damage to the accommodating space.

[0021] In order to achieve the above objectives of the invention, the following technical solutions are further provided:

[0022] The washing machine includes a housing. A holder supported by a vibration-damping member is mounted within the housing. A spin tub is mounted on the holder. Any distance between any position on the holder and a left side wall of the housing is equal to or greater than the minimum distance between the spin tub and the left side wall of the housing. Also, any distance between any position on the holder and a right side wall of the housing is equal to or greater than the minimum distance between the spin tub and the right side wall of the housing.

[0023] The holder further includes a support member extending vertically. The rotating tub is rotatably mounted on the support member. The support member is installed coaxially with the rotating tub. The horizontal width of the support member is equal to or smaller than the diameter of the rotating tub. Preferably, a motor shaft is connected to the bottom of the rotating tub. The motor shaft is inserted through the support member. Both ends of the motor shaft are connected to the drive motor and the rotating tub, respectively.

[0024] Furthermore, a drain port is provided at the bottom of the rotating tub. The drain port is installed close to the outer periphery of the bottom of the tub. The support member covers at least the rotation path of the drain port during the rotation of the rotating tub. The drain port is provided with a valve body for opening and closing the drain port. Preferably, the valve body is a centrifugal valve that is automatically opened when the rotation speed of the rotating tub reaches a predetermined value, or an electromagnetically controlled control valve. More preferably, a hollow lifting rib is attached to the inner wall of the rotating tub. The lifting rib is provided with a water passage hole that communicates with the hollow portion inside. The drain port is used to communicate with the hollow inside the lifting rib. The valve body installed at the drain port is located in the hollow portion inside the lifting rib.

[0025] Furthermore, the outer periphery of the support member is bent in a tapered shape inclined toward the rotating tub. The maximum radial width of the tapered bend is equal to or smaller than the diameter of the rotating tub. Preferably, the rotating tub is a tapered tub whose diameter gradually decreases from the bottom side toward the opening side. The maximum radial width of the tapered bend is equal to or smaller than the maximum diameter of the tapered rotating tub. More preferably, the tapered wall of the rotating tub is provided with a contracted portion that is close to the bottom of the tub and has a contracted diameter. The tapered bend on the outer periphery of the support member covers at least a portion of the contracted portion.

[0026] The holder further includes a bottom support member disposed below the spin tub and extending horizontally. The bottom support member is provided with a water collection tub, the bottom of which is connected to a drain pipe of the washing machine. The bottom support member is located between the left and right ends of the spin tub. Preferably, the width of the bottom support member is smaller than the diameter of the spin tub. The axis of the bottom support member is located in the same vertical plane as the axis of the spin tub.

[0027] Furthermore, a notch is provided in the tapered fold on the outer periphery of the support member. The notch is located at the bottom of the tapered fold and opens to face the water collection tank. Preferably, the holder is provided with a water guide structure that extends from the notch to the water collection tank and guides the water flowing out from the drain outlet of the rotating tank to flow into the water collection tank.

[0028] The bottom support member is connected to the lower part of the support member. The bottom support member and the spin tub are separated by a gap. The other end of the bottom support member extends toward the opening of the spin tub. The drain pipe of the washing machine is connected to the lowest position of the water collection tub of the bottom support member.

[0029] Furthermore, a drain port is provided in the wall of the rotating tub, and a control valve is provided at the drain port. The holder is provided with a positioning device for stopping the rotation of the rotating tub at a fixed position. When the rotating tub is in the fixed position, the drain port is located at the lowest position and is installed facing a water collection tank provided in the holder.

[0030] Furthermore, the rotating tub is provided with an inner tub lid for opening and closing the tub opening so that the rotating tub forms a water storage tank when the washing machine is in the washing state.

[0031] The vibration-damping member further includes a vibration-damping rod and / or a suspension spring that connects the holder and the housing. One end of the vibration-damping rod is connected to the holder. The vibration-damping rod extends downward until the other end is connected to the housing. One end of the suspension spring is connected to the holder. The suspension spring extends upward until the other end is connected to the housing. Effect of the Invention

[0032] By using the above technical solutions, the present invention has the following beneficial effects compared with the prior art:

[0033] By installing it as described above, there is no part of the holder that protrudes horizontally from the spin tub. Therefore, by simply maintaining a gap between the spin tub and the inside of the housing, the washing machine can run smoothly.

[0034] All the holders are installed between the leftmost and rightmost ends of the spin tub so that the holders do not exceed the radial size of the spin tub in the horizontal direction. Compared to a typical drum washing machine with an outer tub that requires a certain amount of space, in the embodiment of the present invention, when the housing has the same volume, the space occupied by the holders is smaller than the space required when the outer tub is present. This increases the radial size of the spin tub and expands the washing capacity of the washing machine.

[0035] Moreover, the present invention has a simple structure, remarkable effect, and is suitable for widespread use.

[0036] Specific embodiments of the present invention will be described in more detail below in conjunction with the drawings.

[0037] The drawings are used as a part of the present invention for further understanding of the present invention. In addition, the schematic embodiments of the present invention and their explanations are used for the interpretation of the present invention, but do not unduly limit the present invention. It goes without saying that the drawings described below are only a part of the embodiments, and those skilled in the art can obtain other drawings from these drawings without requiring creative labor. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0038] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a schematic structural diagram of a washing machine according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a schematic structural diagram of a washing machine according to another embodiment of the present invention. [Diagram 3] FIG. 3 is a schematic structural diagram of a cross section taken along line AA of FIG. 1 in an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a schematic structural diagram of the cross section taken along line BB of FIG. 1 in one embodiment of the present invention. [Diagram 5] FIG. 5 is a schematic structural diagram of a cross section taken along line BB of FIG. 1 in another embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a schematic structural diagram of a washing machine according to another embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a schematic structural diagram of a cross section taken along line DD of FIG. 6 in another embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a schematic structural diagram of a cross section taken along line DD of FIG. 6 in a further embodiment of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0039] It should be explained that these drawings and textual description are not intended to limit the scope of the inventive concepts in any way, but rather to illustrate the inventive concepts to those skilled in the art with reference to specific embodiments.

[0040] In order to make the objectives, technical solutions and advantages of the embodiments of the present invention clearer, the following will clearly and concisely describe the technical solutions of the embodiments in combination with the drawings of the embodiments of the present invention, which are for illustrating the present invention only and are not intended to limit the scope of the present invention.

[0041] In the description of the present invention, it should be explained that the directions or positional relationships indicated by terms such as "upper", "lower", "front", "rear", "left", "right", "vertical", "inner", and "outer" are directions or positional relationships based on the drawings, and are merely for the convenience and simplification of the description of the present invention, and do not explicitly or implicitly indicate that the target device or member has a specific direction and must be constructed and operated in a specific direction. Therefore, it should not be understood as limiting the present invention.

[0042] In the description of the present invention, the terms "attached", "connected" and "connected" should be interpreted broadly unless otherwise clearly specified and limited as a point to be explained. For example, it may be a fixed connection, a removable connection, or an integral connection. It may also be a mechanical connection or an electrical connection. Furthermore, it may be a direct connection or an indirect connection via an intermediate medium. A person skilled in the art can interpret the specific meaning of the above terms in the present invention according to the specific situation.

[0043] As shown in Figs. 1 to 5, a washing machine will be described in the embodiment of the present invention. The washing machine includes a housing 1. A rotating tub 3 is provided in the housing 1. The axis of the rotating tub 3 is horizontal or the tub mouth side is inclined upward. The rotating tub 3 is used by a user to put a load to be washed. The rotating tub 3 is connected to a drive motor 7 and rotates around its axis accompanied by the drive motor 7. As a result, the load put into the tub is raised and struck, and the force of the strike is used to wash the load. In addition, washing water is supplied into the rotating tub 3. The washing water improves the washing effect of the load by immersing the load and bringing additives such as detergent, fabric softener, and disinfectant contained in the supply water into contact with the load.

[0044] In the embodiment of the present invention, the rotating tub 3 is mounted in the housing 1 via the holder 4. The holder 4 is supported and mounted in the housing 1 via a vibration-damping member 9. The vibration-damping member 9 can be a vibration-damping rod 91, a spring 92, or the like. The vibration-damping rod 91 and the spring 92 can be any one of a hydraulic rod, a pneumatic rod, a vibration-damping spring, a vibration-damping suspension spring, or the like, or a combination of these, and can be a conventional structure capable of providing a vibration-damping support force in the axial direction. Preferably, the upper part of the holder 4 is connected to the housing 1 via a suspension spring 92, and the bottom part of the holder 4 is connected to the housing 1 via a vibration-damping rod 91. More preferably, both the left and right sides of the upper part of the holder 4 are connected to at least one suspension spring 92, and both the left and right sides of the bottom part of the holder 4 are connected to at least one vibration-damping rod 91. The suspension spring 92 and the vibration-damping rod 91 each extend in the radial direction of the rotating tub or in a direction inclined relative to the radial direction. This allows the vibration control force to be oriented from both sides toward the center, and furthermore, by combining the vibration control members on both the left and right sides, a vibration control support force in the vertical direction is formed.

[0045] In the embodiment of the present invention, the holder 4 is provided in the housing 1 of the washing machine. The holder is connected to the inner wall of the housing 1 via a flexible member 6 so as to surround the accommodation space 2. Thus, by providing the spin tub 3 in the accommodation space 2, the wash water flowing out from the spin tub 3 flows into the accommodation space 2. The bottom of the accommodation space 2 communicates with the drain pipe 5 of the washing machine, so that the wash water discharged from the spin tub 3 is collected and discharged to the outside.

[0046] In addition, in order to cooperate with the above-mentioned washing machine operation, the spin tub 3 may be installed to form a sealed water storage tank during normal washing of the washing machine. In this way, the functions of the outer tub and the inner tub are integrated in the spin tub 3 at the same time, and the load put in is washed using the washing water contained therein.

[0047] Alternatively, the spin tub 3 of the washing machine may be a normal inner tub, and a spin hole that connects the inside and outside of the spin tub 3 may be provided. In this case, in order to store wash water, a storage space 2 surrounded by the holder 4, the flexible member 6, and the housing 1 is provided in a sealed state, so that the storage space 2 directly functions as an outer tub for storing wash water.

[0048] In the embodiment of the present invention, the flexible member 6 is made of a material having elastic ductility so that the flexible member 6 itself can be partially folded, moved, etc. For example, the flexible member 6 is made of an elastic rubber material. The flexible member 6 has a sheet-like structure that stretches in a wavy shape. In this way, the flexible member 6 generates partial deformation by utilizing its own wavy folds, and filters the vibration-damping displacement generated by the vibration-damping member 9, thereby ensuring that the flexible member 6 is not damaged.

[0049] By connecting the holder 4 to the housing 1 via the flexible member 6, the purpose of providing the storage space 2, through which washing water passes, within the housing 1 of the washing machine is realized. Moreover, by directly accumulating and installing the storage space 2 in the housing 1, the width of the storage space 2 is set to be equal to the size of the housing 1 of the washing machine. This achieves a significant technical advancement in which the size of the housing 1 is utilized to the maximum extent to increase the washing capacity of the washing machine. In addition, by forming at least a portion of the storage space 2 from the flexible member 6, the elasticity of the flexible member 6 itself filters the vibrations and displacements occurring in the holder 4. This prevents the storage space 2 accumulated in the housing 1 from being subjected to the action of the vibration-damping member 9, and prevents the problem of partial damage to the storage space 2. EXAMPLES

[0050] As shown in Fig. 1, in this embodiment, a washing machine will be described. The washing machine includes a housing 1. A spin tub 3 is provided in the housing 1. The spin tub 3 is rotatably mounted on a holder 4. The holder 4, a flexible member 6, and the housing 1 surround an accommodation space 2, and the spin tub 3 is disposed in the accommodation space 2.

[0051] In this embodiment, the holder 4 includes a first support arm 41 and a second support arm 42 that are arranged vertically and spaced apart. Flexible members 6 are connected to both the left and right sides of the first support arm 41 and the second support arm 42, and the tank-like structure is surrounded by at least the flexible member 6, the first support arm 41, and the second support arm 42.

[0052] In this embodiment, the left and right sides of the first support arm 41 and the second support arm 42 are connected to the inner wall of the housing 1 via different flexible members 6, and the first support arm 41, the second support arm 42, the flexible members 6, and the inner wall of the housing 1 surround the tank-like structure. In this embodiment, the left and right sides of the first support arm 41 are connected to the right side of the upper left flexible member 63 and the left side of the upper right flexible member 64, respectively. The left side of the upper left flexible member 63 is connected to the left side wall 11 of the housing 1, and the right side of the upper right flexible member 64 is connected to the right side wall 12 of the housing 1, respectively. In addition, the left and right sides of the second support arm 42 are connected to the right side of the lower left flexible member 65 and the left side of the lower right flexible member 66, respectively. The left side of the lower left flexible member 65 is connected to the left side wall 11 of the housing 1, and the right side of the lower right flexible member 66 is connected to the right side wall 12 of the housing 1. Furthermore, the connection point between the upper left flexible member 63 and the left side wall 11 is located above the connection point between the lower left flexible member 65 and the left side wall 11, and the connection point between the upper right flexible member 64 and the right side wall 12 is located above the connection point between the lower right flexible member 66 and the right side wall 12. As a result, the top and bottom of the upper left flexible member 63, first support arm 41, upper right flexible member 64, right side wall 12, lower right flexible member 66, second support arm 42, lower left flexible member 65, left side wall 11, and upper left flexible member 63 are sequentially connected to each other to form a tank-like structure, and the storage space 2 is formed inside the tank-like structure.

[0053] In this embodiment, in order to ensure the sealing of the accommodation space 2, the connection points between the flexible member 6 and the side wall of the housing 1 and the support arm of the holder 4 are all hermetically connected. This prevents water that has flowed into the accommodation space 2 from flowing out from the connection points.

[0054] In this embodiment, in order to improve the overall operational stability of the washing machine, the axes of the first support arm 41 and the second support arm 42 are positioned in the same vertical plane. Preferably, the axes of the first support arm 41 and the second support arm 42 are both positioned in the same vertical plane as the axis of the spin tub 3. This allows the holder 4 to be disposed symmetrically with respect to the axis of the spin tub 3, thereby reducing vibration during operation of the washing machine.

[0055] In this embodiment, in order to further improve the stability during operation of the washing machine, the tub-like structure surrounded by the holder 4, the flexible member 6, and the side wall of the housing is disposed symmetrically with respect to the axis of the spin tub 3. As a result, the center of the tub-like structure is located in the vertical plane in which the axis of the spin tub 3 exists, thereby preventing the vibration of the tub-like structure from becoming excessively large due to eccentricity. EXAMPLES

[0056] As shown in FIG. 2, this embodiment differs from the above-described first embodiment in that the accommodation space 2 in which the rotation tub 3 is disposed is directly surrounded by the holder 4 and the flexible member 6. As shown in FIG.

[0057] In this embodiment, the first support arm 41 and the second support arm 42 of the holder 4 have a left flexible member 61 installed on the left side and a right flexible member 62 installed on the right side. Both opposing sides of the left flexible member 61 are connected to the left sides of the first support arm 41 and the second support arm 42, respectively, and both opposing sides of the right flexible member 62 are connected to the right sides of the first support arm 41 and the second support arm 42, respectively. As a result, the trough-like structure is surrounded by the first support arm 41, the left flexible member 61, the second support arm 42, and the right flexible member 62, which are successively connected, and an accommodation space 2 is formed within the trough-like structure.

[0058] In this embodiment, in order to maximize the storage space 2 and increase the washing capacity of the washing machine, the left flexible member 61 is fixedly connected to the left side wall 11 of the washing machine housing 1, and the right flexible member 62 is fixedly connected to the right side wall 12 of the washing machine housing 1. In this way, the tub-like structure formed by the flexible member 6 is stretched by the action of the connection points, and the washing capacity of the washing machine is maximized and installed.

[0059] Preferably, in order to ensure maximum capacity of the washing machine, the following installation is performed. The center of the left flexible member 61 is connected to the left side wall 11 of the housing 1 of the washing machine, and the connection point is set at the same height as the axis of the spin tub 3 of the washing machine. Also, the center of the right flexible member 62 is connected to the right side wall 12 of the housing 1 of the washing machine, and the connection point is set at the same height as the axis of the spin tub 3 of the washing machine. By installing in this manner, the width of the housing 1 can be fully utilized to install the storage space 2, and the width of the storage space 2 is maximized. As a result, the spin tub 3 placed inside can be maximized, and the effect of increasing the washing capacity of the washing machine is achieved. EXAMPLES

[0060] As shown in Figures 3 and 4, this embodiment is based on the above-mentioned embodiment 1 or 2 and further has the following technical features. That is, the tub-like structure surrounded by at least the flexible member 6, the first support arm 41, and the second support arm 42 has a water-stopping structure at least on the outer periphery of both ends. As a result, the wash water flowing out from the spin tub 3 is blocked by the water-stopping structure and collected in the storage space 2 formed inside the tub-like structure, and then can be discharged to the outside from the drain pipe 5 of the washing machine that communicates with the tub-like structure.

[0061] In this embodiment, the holder 4 includes a vertically extending support member 40. The support member 40 is located at the rear end of the tub-like structure. The outer periphery of the support member 40 is hermetically connected to the inner circumferential wall of the tub-like structure directly or via a flexible member 6, and is used to seal one end of the tub-like structure. The rear side edge of the flexible member 6 is hermetically connected to the support member 40. As a result, the rear end of the tub-like structure is sealed by the action of the support member 40, preventing the washing water flowing out of the rotating tub 3 from being discharged to the outside from the rear end of the tub-like structure, and further achieving the effect of collecting the washing water flowing out of the rotating tub 3 in the storage space 2.

[0062] In this embodiment, the front end of the tub-like structure is provided with an annular damming portion 67 that is bent toward the center. The outer periphery of the annular damming portion 67 is hermetically connected to the front end of the tub-like structure, so that the wash water that has flowed into the storage space 2 is prevented from flowing out from the front end. Preferably, the inner periphery of the annular damming portion 67 may be installed coaxially opposite the tub opening of the spin tub 3 to ensure stable operation of the washing machine.

[0063] In this embodiment, the support member 40 of the holder 4 is fixedly connected to or integrally installed with the first support arm 41 and the second support arm 42, respectively, and is made of a metal member, a plastic member, or the like having a certain degree of rigidity. Preferably, the second support arm 42 is provided at the lowest position of the tub-like structure. The second support arm 42 is provided with a drain port, which is connected to the drain pipe 5 of the washing machine.

[0064] In this embodiment, the rotating tub 3 and the drive motor 7 are provided on both sides of a support member 40. The rotating tub 3 is located inside a tub-shaped structure. The motor shaft 8 of the drive motor 7 is inserted through the support member 40 and coaxially connected to the center of the bottom of the rotating tub 3. Preferably, a water seal structure is provided at the bottom of the rotating tub 3 where the motor shaft 8 is inserted. EXAMPLES

[0065] As shown in Fig. 5, this embodiment is based on the above-mentioned embodiment 1 or 2 and further has the following technical features. That is, the tub-shaped structure surrounded by at least the flexible member 6, the first support arm 41, and the second support arm 42 has both end portions hermetically connected to the inner wall of the housing 1. In this way, by hermetically connecting the front end and the rear end of the tub-shaped structure to the corresponding inner wall of the housing 1, the front end and the rear end of the tub-shaped structure are appropriately sealed off and the cleaning water flowing out from the rotation tub 3 is collected.

[0066] In this embodiment, the front end of the tub-like structure is connected to the front wall 13 of the housing 1 of the washing machine, and the rear end is connected to the rear wall 14 of the housing 1 of the washing machine.

[0067] In this embodiment, in order to ensure that vibrations occurring during the rotation of the spin tub 3 are not transmitted directly to the housing 1 after being transmitted to the tub-like structure, the following installation is performed. That is, the holder 4 is not directly connected to the housing 1, but the entire outer circumference of the holder 4 is connected to the housing 1 via the flexible member 6. As a result, the vibrations of the holder 4 are filtered by the flexible member 6 before being transmitted to the housing 1, thereby reducing vibrations during the operation of the washing machine.

[0068] In this embodiment, the portions between the front end of the holder 4 and the front wall 13 of the housing 1, and between the rear end of the holder 4 and the rear wall 14 of the housing 1 are both made of flexible member 6, so that vibrations received by the holder 4 in conjunction with the operation of the rotating tub 3 are transmitted to the housing 1 via the flexible member 6. This avoids a rigid connection between the holder 4 and the housing 1, and prevents the vibrations from acting directly on the housing 1. EXAMPLES

[0069] As shown in Figs. 1 to 5, this embodiment is based on the washing machine described in any one of the above-mentioned embodiments 1 to 4, and further includes the following technical features. That is, the holder 4 and the housing 1 are connected via a vibration-damping member 9. The vibration-damping member 9 includes a vibration-damping rod 91 and / or a hanging spring 92 that connects the holder 4 and the housing 1. One end of the vibration-damping rod 91 is connected to the support member 40 and / or the second support arm 42 of the holder 4. The vibration-damping rod 91 extends downward until the other end is connected to the bottom wall and / or the side wall of the housing 1. One end of the hanging spring 92 is connected to the support member 40 and / or the first support arm 41 of the holder 40. The hanging spring 92 extends upward until the other end is connected to the ceiling wall and / or the side wall of the housing 1. As a result, the holder 40 is supported by the housing 1 via the vibration-damping member 9, and the vibration is buffered by utilizing the elastic expansion and contraction of the vibration-damping member 9 itself, thereby making it possible to reduce vibration and impact to the housing 1 of the washing machine. EXAMPLES

[0070] As shown in Figures 1 to 5, this embodiment is based on the washing machine described in any one of the above-mentioned Examples 1 to 5, and further includes the following technical features. That is, a spin tub 3 is provided in the accommodation space 2. The spin tub 3 is attached to a holder 4 so as to be rotatable around an axis.

[0071] In this embodiment, the washing machine is provided with a door 10 for appropriately opening and closing the tub opening of the spin tub 3. The spin tub 3 forms a sealed water tank when the washing machine is running a washing program, so that the spin tub 3 simultaneously functions as an inner tub and an outer tub.

[0072] In this embodiment, the rotating tub 3 has an opening. The opening connects the interior of the rotating tub 3 with the storage space 2. A centrifugal valve is provided at the opening of the rotating tub 3, which uses centrifugal force generated during rotation to open the opening when the rotation speed of the rotating tub 3 reaches a predetermined rotation speed. This makes it possible to control the discharge of washing water contained in the rotating tub 3 to the outside, and simultaneously integrates the functions of an inner tub and an outer tub in the rotating tub 3. EXAMPLES

[0073] As shown in Figs. 6 to 7, in this embodiment, a washing machine will be described. The washing machine includes a housing 1. A rotating tub 3 is provided in the housing 1. The axis of the rotating tub 3 is horizontal or the tub mouth side is inclined upward. The rotating tub 3 is used by a user to put a load to be washed. The rotating tub 3 is connected to a drive motor 7 and rotates around its axis accompanied by the drive motor 7. As a result, the load put into the tub is raised and struck, and the force of the strike is used to wash the load. In addition, washing water is supplied into the rotating tub 3. The washing water improves the washing effect of the load by immersing the load and bringing additives such as detergent, fabric softener, and disinfectant contained in the supply water into contact with the load.

[0074] In the embodiment of the present invention, the rotating tub 3 is mounted in the housing 1 via the holder 4. The holder 4 is supported and mounted in the housing 1 via the vibration-damping member 9. The vibration-damping member 9 can be a vibration-damping rod, a spring, or the like. The vibration-damping rod and the spring can be any one of a hydraulic rod, a pneumatic rod, a vibration-damping spring, a vibration-damping suspension spring, or the like, or a combination of them to provide a conventional structure capable of providing a vibration-damping support force in the axial direction. Preferably, as shown in Figs. 1 to 3, the vibration-damping member 9 can be installed below the holder, and the holder 4 is connected to the bottom wall and / or the side wall of the housing 1. Two sets of vibration-damping members 9 arranged symmetrically with respect to the axis of the rotating tub may be installed on both the left and right sides of the holder. Each vibration-damping member 93 extends in the radial direction of the rotating tub or in a direction inclined to the radial direction. This allows the vibration-damping force to be directed from both sides toward the center, and furthermore, a vibration-damping support force in the vertical direction is formed by combining the vibration-damping members on both the left and right sides.

[0075] In order to cooperate with the above-mentioned operation of the washing machine, the spin tub 3 is installed so that the door installed on the spin tub 3 is closed during normal washing of the washing machine, and the spin tub 3 forms a sealed water storage tank. In this way, the functions of the outer tub and the inner tub are integrated simultaneously in the spin tub 3, and the load put in is washed using the wash water contained inside.

[0076] In the embodiment of the present invention, a rotating tub 3 is attached to a holder 4. The distance between any position on the holder 4 and the left side wall 11 of the housing 1 is equal to or greater than the minimum distance between the rotating tub 3 and the left side wall 11 of the housing 1. Also, the distance between any position on the holder 4 and the right side wall 12 of the housing 1 is equal to or greater than the minimum distance between the rotating tub 3 and the right side wall 12 of the housing 1.

[0077] All the holders are installed between the leftmost and rightmost ends of the spin tub so that the holders do not exceed the radial size of the spin tub in the horizontal direction. Compared to a typical drum washing machine with an outer tub that requires a certain amount of space, in the embodiment of the present invention, when the housing has the same volume, the space occupied by the holders is smaller than the space required when the outer tub is present. This increases the radial size of the spin tub and expands the washing capacity of the washing machine.

[0078] As shown in Fig. 6 and Fig. 7, in this embodiment, a washing machine will be described. The washing machine includes a housing 1. A spin tub 3 is provided in the housing 1. The spin tub 3 is rotatably mounted on a holder 4. A gap is provided between the holder 4 and the spin tub 3 to ensure that no interference occurs between the holder 4 and the spin tub 3 during the rotation of the spin tub 3.

[0079] In this embodiment, the holder 4 includes a support member 40 extending vertically. The rotating tub 3 is rotatably mounted on the support member 40. The support member 40 is installed coaxially with the rotating tub 3. The horizontal width of the support member 40 is equal to or smaller than the diameter of the rotating tub 3. Preferably, in this embodiment, a motor shaft 8 is connected to the bottom of the rotating tub 3. The motor shaft 8 is inserted through the support member 40. Both ends of the motor shaft 8 are connected to the drive motor 7 and the rotating tub 3, respectively. In this way, the rotor of the drive motor 7 is directly connected to the rotating tub 3, and the drive motor causes the rotating tub 3 to rotate about its axis.

[0080] By installing it as described above, there is no part of the holder that protrudes horizontally from the spin tub. Therefore, by simply maintaining a gap between the spin tub and the inside of the housing, the washing machine can run smoothly.

[0081] In this embodiment, a drain port 15 is provided at the bottom of the rotating tub 3. The drain port 15 is installed close to the outer periphery of the bottom of the tub. The support member 40 covers at least the rotation path of the drain port 15 during the rotation of the rotating tub 3. This allows the drain water flow from the drain port 15 to flow so as to be guided by the support member 40 and converge downward. The drain port 15 is provided with a valve body 22 for opening and closing the drain port 15. In this embodiment, the valve body 22 is a centrifugal valve that is automatically opened when the rotation speed of the rotating tub 3 reaches a predetermined value, or an electromagnetically controlled control valve. In this embodiment, a lifting rib 21 with a hollow interior is attached to the inner wall of the rotating tub 3. The lifting rib 21 is provided with a water passage hole that communicates with the hollow part inside. The drain port 15 is used to communicate with the hollow inside the lifting rib 21. The valve body 22 installed in the drain port 15 is located in the hollow part inside the lifting rib 21.

[0082] In this embodiment, in order to improve the smoothness of drainage, multiple drainage ports 15 may be provided at the bottom of the rotating tub 3. Furthermore, each drainage port 15 is disposed symmetrically with respect to the axis of the rotating tub 3. This allows the wash water in the rotating tub 3 to be discharged to the outside from each drainage port 15 by the action of centrifugal force, improving the smoothness of drainage.

[0083] In this embodiment, the outer periphery of the support member 4 has a tapered fold 43 that is inclined toward the spin tub 3. The maximum radial width of the tapered fold 43 is equal to or less than the diameter of the spin tub 3. As a result, the holder 4 does not have a portion that protrudes from the spin tub 3 in the horizontal direction, and the washing machine can be operated smoothly simply by maintaining a gap with the spin tub 3 inside the housing 1. In addition, by providing the tapered fold 43 that is inclined toward the bottom of the spin tub 3 on the outer periphery of the support member 4, the water flow discharged from the drain port 15 is guided by the support member 40 to converge downward and ensure that it can flow.

[0084] In this embodiment, the rotating tub 3 is a tapered tub whose diameter gradually shrinks from the bottom side to the mouth side. As a result, when the washing water in the tub is guided to flow along the wall by the action of centrifugal force, the washing water is focused toward the bottom of the rotating tub 3 and discharged from the drainage port 15 provided at the bottom of the tub. The angle between the configuration line of the wall of the rotating tub 3 and the horizontal line is set to a so that the wall of the rotating tub is a tapered tub whose diameter expands from the mouth side to the bottom side of the tub. In this embodiment, the maximum radial width of the tapered fold 43 is equal to or smaller than the maximum diameter of the tapered rotating tub 3. More preferably, the tapered wall of the rotating tub 3 is provided with a shrinking portion close to the bottom and whose diameter shrinks. The tapered fold 43 on the outer periphery of the support member 40 covers at least a part of the shrinking portion.

[0085] In this embodiment, the holder 4 includes a bottom support member 41 that is provided below the spin tub 3 and extends horizontally. The bottom support member 41 is provided with a water collection tank 42, the bottom of which is connected to the drain pipe 5 of the washing machine. The bottom support member 41 is located between the left and right ends of the spin tub 3. Preferably, the width of the bottom support member 41 is smaller than the diameter of the spin tub 3. In addition, the axis of the bottom support member 41 is located in the same vertical plane as the axis of the spin tub 3. By installing the bottom holder below the spin tub, the drain water flow that flows out from the drain outlet is guided by the support member to converge downward and flows into the water collection tank installed in the bottom support member. This achieves the effect of concentrating and storing the drainage water and discharging it to the outside through the connected drain pipe.

[0086] In this embodiment, a notch is provided in the tapered fold 43 on the outer periphery of the support member 40. The notch is located at the bottom of the tapered fold 43 and is opened to face the water collection tank 42. Preferably, the holder 40 is provided with a water guide structure that extends from the notch to the water collection tank 42 and guides the water flowing out from the drain outlet 15 of the rotating tank 3 to flow into the water collection tank 42. The water guide structure may be a water guide tank that connects the notch to the water collection tank 42, or may be a water guide flow path formed by two water guide ribs arranged at an interval.

[0087] In this embodiment, bottom support member 41 is connected to the lower part of support member 40. A gap is provided between bottom support member 40 and spin tub 3. The other end of bottom support member 41 extends toward the tub opening of spin tub 3. A drain pipe 5 of the washing machine is connected to the lowest position of water collection tub 42 of bottom support member 40. This allows wastewater collected in water collection tub 42 to be smoothly discharged from drain pipe 5 to the outside. EXAMPLES

[0088] As shown in Fig. 8, this embodiment differs from the above-mentioned embodiment 7 in the following respects. That is, in this embodiment, there is no included angle between the tub wall of the spin tub 3 and the horizontal plane. In addition, a drain outlet 15 is provided in the tub wall of the spin tub 3. A valve body 22 for controlling the opening and closing of the drain outlet 15 is provided in the drain outlet 15 so that the spin tub 3 forms a sealed water tank when the washing machine executes a washing program. The valve body 22 may be of any conventional structure, such as an electrically controlled valve using wireless power supply and signal transmission.

[0089] In this embodiment, the holder 4 and / or the housing 1 are provided with a positioning device for stopping the rotation of the rotating tub 3 at a fixed position. When the rotating tub 3 is in the fixed position, the tub wall on which the drain outlet of the rotating tub 3 is installed is horizontal and located at the lowest position. In addition, the drain outlet 15 is located at the lowest position and is installed facing the water collection tank 42 provided in the holder. As a result, the drain water flow caused by the opening of the drain outlet 15 flows smoothly into the water collection tank 42, thereby achieving the effect of smoothly discharging the wash water in the rotating tub 3 to the outside.

[0090] Preferably, the walls of the rotating tub 3 are inclined at both ends toward the center, and the opening and bottom of the tub are contracted. The center of the tub forms a suitable arc toward the outside. This allows the tub wall to have a protruding shape, and a drain outlet is provided at the lowest point of the protruding part. The water flow flows toward the lowest point and converges due to gravity, and is smoothly concentrated in the water collection tank 42, thereby optimizing the discharge of the washing water from the rotating tub 3 to the outside.

[0091] In this embodiment, the positioning device may be any conventional device (not shown) that stops the rotation of the spin tub 3 at a fixed position. For example, it may be a latch that is installed in a holder and capable of generating an expansion and contraction displacement. The latch is connected to a drive motor. An insertion port is installed in the spin tub and / or the rotor of the motor. The latch extends until it is inserted into the insertion port by the driving action of the motor, and locks and positions the spin tub directly or via the rotor of the motor that rotates together with the spin tub. This achieves the effect of stopping the rotation of the spin tub at a fixed position. EXAMPLES

[0092] As shown in Figs. 6 to 8, this embodiment is based on the washing machine described in any one of the above embodiments and further includes the following technical features. That is, the holder 4 and the housing 1 are connected via a vibration-damping member 9. The vibration-damping member 9 can be installed below the holder and connect the holder 4 to the bottom wall and / or side wall of the housing 1. Alternatively, the vibration-damping member 9 can be installed above the holder 4 and connect the holder 4 to the ceiling wall and / or side wall of the housing 1. In this way, the holder 40 is supported by the housing 1 via the vibration-damping member 9, and the elastic expansion and contraction of the vibration-damping member 9 itself is utilized to buffer vibration, thereby reducing vibration and impact to the housing 1 of the washing machine.

[0093] In this embodiment, a spin tub 3 is provided in a housing 1 of the washing machine. The spin tub 3 is attached to a holder 4 so as to be rotatable around an axis.

[0094] In this embodiment, the washing machine is provided with a door 10 for appropriately opening and closing the tub opening of the spin tub 3. The spin tub 3 forms a sealed water tank when the washing machine is running a washing program, so that the spin tub 3 simultaneously functions as an inner tub and an outer tub.

[0095] The above is merely a preferred embodiment of the present invention, and is not intended to limit the present invention in any form. Although the present invention has been disclosed above through a preferred embodiment, it is not intended to limit the present invention. Within the scope of the technical solution of the present invention, slight modifications or additions that can be implemented by a person skilled in the art using the technical content presented above are considered as equivalently modified equivalent embodiments, and none of them deviate from the content of the technical solution of the present invention. In addition, any simple modifications, equivalent modifications and additions made to the above embodiments based on the technical essence of the present invention all belong to the scope of the claims of the present invention. [Explanation of symbols]

[0096] 1. Housing 2. Containment Space 3 Rotating tank 4 Holder 5 Drain pipe 6 Flexible Member 7 Drive motor 8 Motor shaft 9. Vibration Control Materials 10 Doors 11 Left side wall 12 Right side wall 13 Front side wall 14 Rear wall 15 Drain 21 Lifting Ribs 22 Valve body 31 Motor shaft 40 Support member 41 First support arm 42 Second support arm 43 Bottom support member 44 Water collection tank 45 Tapered fold 61 Left flexible member 62 Right flexible member 63 Upper left flexible member 64 Upper right flexible member 65 Lower left flexible member 66 Lower right flexible member 67 Dam

Claims

1. A washing machine including a housing, and a holder supported by a vibration-damping member is mounted in the housing, The holder is connected to the housing via a flexible member so as to surround an accommodation space, The holder includes a first support arm and a second support arm that are spaced apart from each other and arranged vertically, and flexible members are connected to both left and right sides of the first support arm and the second support arm, A tank-like structure is surrounded by at least the flexible member, the first support arm, and the second support arm, and an accommodation space is formed inside the tank-like structure; the first support arm and a left side of the second support arm are connected via a left flexible member, and the first support arm and a right side of the second support arm are connected via a right flexible member, a tank-like structure is surrounded by the first support arm, the second support arm, the left flexible member, and the right flexible member; a central portion of the left flexible member and a central portion of the right flexible member are connected to an inner wall of the corresponding side of the housing, Both ends of the trough are hermetically connected to the inner wall of the housing, so that the inside of the trough forms a hermetically sealed storage space; A rotating tub is provided in the accommodation space, and the rotating tub is attached to the holder so as to be rotatable around an axis; The washing machine is provided with a cover for opening and closing the opening of the spin tub, and the spin tub forms a sealed water tank when the washing machine is executing a washing program.

2. the holder includes a vertically extending support member, the support member being located at a rear end of the trough-like structure, the outer periphery of the support member being connected in a sealing manner to an inner periphery of the trough-like structure directly or via a flexible member, and the support member is used to seal one end of the trough-like structure; 2. The washing machine according to claim 1, wherein a front end of the tub-shaped structure is provided with an annular dam portion that is bent toward the center.

3. The washing machine according to claim 2, wherein the support members are fixedly connected to the first support arm and the second support arm, respectively, or are integrally installed therewith, and the rear side edge of the flexible member is sealedly connected to the support members.

4. the vibration-damping member includes a vibration-damping rod and / or a suspension spring that connects the holder and the housing, One end of the vibration control rod is connected to the support member and / or the second support arm of the holder, and the vibration control rod extends downward until the other end is connected to the bottom wall and / or the side wall of the housing, The washing machine according to claim 2 or 3, characterized in that one end of the suspension spring is connected to the support member and / or the first support arm of the holder, and the suspension spring extends upward until the other end is connected to the ceiling wall and / or the side wall of the housing.

5. 5. The washing machine according to claim 4, wherein the rotating tub has an opening that connects the interior of the rotating tub with the storage space, and a centrifugal valve is provided at the opening of the rotating tub for opening the opening by utilizing centrifugal force generated during rotation when the rotation speed of the rotating tub reaches a predetermined rotation speed.

6. 2. The washing machine according to claim 1, wherein a spin tub is attached to the holder, and the distance between any position of the holder and the left side wall of the housing is equal to or greater than the minimum distance between the spin tub and the left side wall of the housing, and the distance between any position of the holder and the right side wall of the housing is equal to or greater than the minimum distance between the spin tub and the right side wall of the housing.

7. 7. The washing machine according to claim 6, wherein the holder includes a support member extending vertically, the spin tub is rotatably mounted on the support member, the support member is installed coaxially with the spin tub, and a horizontal width of the support member is equal to or smaller than a diameter of the spin tub.

8. a drain port is provided in a bottom of the rotating tub, the drain port is disposed close to an outer periphery of the bottom of the rotating tub, and the support member covers at least a rotation path of the drain port during a rotation process of the rotating tub; 8. The washing machine according to claim 7, wherein the drain outlet is provided with a valve for opening and closing the drain outlet.

9. The washing machine according to claim 8, characterized in that the outer periphery of the support member is tapered and inclined toward the rotating tub, and the maximum radial width of the tapered fold is equal to or smaller than the diameter of the rotating tub.

10. 10. The washing machine according to claim 9, wherein the holder includes a bottom support member disposed below the spin tub and extending horizontally, the bottom support member is provided with a water collection tub, the bottom of the water collection tub is connected to a drain pipe of the washing machine, and the bottom support member is located between the left and right ends of the spin tub.

11. A washing machine as described in Claim 10, characterized in that a notch is provided in the tapered fold on the outer periphery of the support member, the notch being located at the bottom of the tapered fold and opening opposite the water collection tank.

12. The washing machine according to claim 10, characterized in that the bottom support member is connected to a lower portion of the support member, the bottom support member and the rotating tub are separated by a gap, the other end of the bottom support member extends toward the tub opening side of the rotating tub, and a drain pipe of the washing machine is connected to the lowest position of the water collection tub of the bottom support member.

13. a drain port is provided in a wall of the rotating tub, the drain port is provided with a control valve, and the holder is provided with a positioning device for stopping the rotation of the rotating tub at a fixed position; The washing machine according to any one of claims 6 to 12, characterized in that, when the spin tub is in a fixed position, the drain outlet is positioned at a lowest position and is installed facing a water collection tub provided in the holder.

14. The washing machine according to any one of claims 6 to 13, characterized in that the rotating tub is provided with an inner tub lid for opening and closing a tub opening so that the rotating tub forms a water storage tank when the washing machine is in a washing state.

15. the vibration-damping member includes a vibration-damping rod and / or a suspension spring that connects the holder and the housing, The washing machine according to any one of claims 6 to 14, characterized in that one end of the vibration control rod is connected to the holder, the vibration control rod extends downward until the other end is connected to the housing, and one end of the suspension spring is connected to the holder, the suspension spring extends upward until the other end is connected to the housing.

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