Partial foam cleaning device and control method thereof

Abstract

The present invention discloses a partial foam cleaning device and a control method thereof. The partial foam cleaning device includes a water discharge assembly for supplying cleaning water during partial cleaning, and a detergent foam generating assembly for supplying foamy detergent during partial cleaning. The control method includes a step of determining whether the distance from the sensing end of the water discharge assembly to an obstruction is smaller than a trigger distance, and if it is smaller, controlling the water discharge assembly to a non-triggered state, while if it is not small, controlling the water discharge assembly to a triggered state, and a step of determining whether the distance from the sensing end of the detergent foam generating assembly to an obstruction is smaller than the trigger distance, and if it is smaller, controlling the detergent foam generating assembly to a triggered state, while if it is not small, controlling the detergent foam generating assembly to a non-triggered state. The present invention solves the technical problem that the water discharge assembly continues to discharge water in the storage position due to the compact structure of the partial foam cleaning device, and makes it possible to reduce the space occupied by the partial foam cleaning device in a washing machine as much as possible.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to the technical field of clothing treatment, and more particularly to a partial foam washing device and a washing machine. [Background technology]

[0002] A washing machine is a machine that uses mechanical power generated by electricity to wash laundry. In the case of clothing such as shirts, the collars and cuffs of the clothes tend to get dirtier than other areas, but conventional washing machines are less effective at cleaning certain areas of the clothes, such as the collars and cuffs, during the washing process.

[0003] In the prior art, it is often necessary to add a separate ultrasonic cleaner to the washing machine to achieve this goal.

[0004] For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a washing machine equipped with a partial ultrasonic cleaning device. The washing machine includes a washing machine main body and an ultrasonic cleaning device. The ultrasonic cleaning device is composed of an ultrasonic generator, a transducer, a device housing, and a transducer base. The ultrasonic generator is attached to a computer panel and connected to the transducer. The transducer is attached to a base within the device housing and is firmly pressed by a cover plate. The ultrasonic cleaning device is fixed by a positioning stand and attached to the rear of the washing machine's operation panel via the positioning stand.

[0005] Patent Document 2 discloses a partial clothing cleaning structure and a washing machine. The partial clothing cleaning structure is removably installed on a panel base of a washing machine and connected to the washing machine's water supply channel / detergent case. The partial clothing cleaning structure includes a pressure plate and a support plate. The pressure plate includes an ultrasonic transducer, and the support plate includes a water supply chamber. The shape of the pressure plate corresponds to that of the support plate, and when the pressure plate is pressed strongly toward the support plate, a slit is formed between them for clamping the portion of the clothing to be cleaned, clamping the clothing and ultrasonically cleaning the portion to be cleaned.

[0006] Although the above solution solves to some extent the problem of washing machines being unable to clean some heavily soiled areas, installing an ultrasonic cleaner separately in the washing machine will undoubtedly increase the cost of the washing machine and reduce the market competitiveness of the washing machine.

[0007] In view of the above, the present invention is proposed. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0008] [Patent Document 1] Chinese Patent Application No. 200520069251.1 [Patent Document 2] Chinese Patent Application No. 2017101131757 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0009] The technical problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide a control method for a partial foam washing device to overcome the defects of the prior art, thereby solving the technical problem that occurs when the water discharge assembly continues to discharge water using the conventional control logic in the storage position due to the compact structure of the partial foam washing device, and making it possible to minimize the space occupied by the partial foam washing device in the washing machine.

[0010] Another object of the present invention is to provide a partial foam washing device that uses the above control method. [Means for solving the problem]

[0011] In order to solve the above technical problems, the basic idea of ​​the technical solution adopted in the present invention is as follows.

[0012] In the control method for a partial foam washing device, the partial foam washing device includes a water discharge assembly for supplying wash water during partial washing, and a detergent foam generating assembly for supplying foamy detergent during partial washing.

[0013] The control method includes the following steps.

[0014] The distance from the sensing end of the water discharge assembly to the obstruction is determined to be smaller than the trigger distance, and if it is smaller, the water discharge assembly is controlled to be in a non-triggered state, whereas if it is not small, the water discharge assembly is controlled to be in a triggered state.

[0015] The method determines whether the distance from the sensing end of the detergent foam generating assembly to the shield is smaller than the trigger distance, and if it is smaller, controls the detergent foam generating assembly to be in a triggered state, while if it is not smaller, controls the detergent foam generating assembly to be in a non-triggered state.

[0016] The partial foam washing device further includes a casing, wherein the water discharge assembly and the detergent foam generating assembly have a storage position and a washing position relative to the casing, and are switchable between the storage position and the washing position.

[0017] In the storage position, the bottom wall of the casing forms a shield for the water discharge assembly and the detergent foam generation assembly.

[0018] In the cleaning position, the object to be cleaned forms a shield for the water discharge assembly and the detergent foam generation assembly.

[0019] Further, after controlling the water discharge assembly to be in a trigger state, the method includes starting the water discharge assembly and controlling it to discharge water continuously, or controlling the water discharge assembly to discharge water intermittently at a predetermined frequency.

[0020] Furthermore, after controlling the detergent foam generating assembly to be in a trigger state, the method includes controlling the detergent foam generating assembly to be activated for a predetermined period of time to eject detergent, and then to suspend activation again until it is determined whether the distance from the sensing end of the detergent foam generating assembly to an obstruction is smaller than the trigger distance.

[0021] Further, after controlling the water discharge assembly to be in a trigger state, the method includes controlling the water discharge assembly to start discharging water, and determining whether the detergent foam generating assembly has started discharging detergent, and if it has started, controlling the water discharge assembly to temporarily suspend the start of water discharge.

[0022] Furthermore, the water dispensing assembly includes a water dispensing unit and a first sensing unit that controls whether the water dispensing unit is triggered.

[0023] The detergent foam generating assembly includes the foam generating unit and a second sensing unit that controls whether the foam generating unit is triggered.

[0024] In the storage position, the distance from the first sensing unit to the bottom wall of the casing is smaller than a trigger distance, and the distance from the second sensing unit to the bottom wall of the casing is larger than a trigger distance.

[0025] Furthermore, the foam generating unit and the second sensing unit are integrated and disposed within a housing, the outlet of the foam generating unit and the sensing end of the second sensing unit are disposed on the bottom wall of the housing, and the outlet of the foam generating unit is located farther from the casing than the sensing end of the second sensing unit.

[0026] Furthermore, the water discharge unit and the first sensing unit are integrally integrated, located below the housing, and retreated from the outlet of the foam generation unit and the sensing end of the second sensing unit.

[0027] The partial foam washing device is used to implement the control method described above.

[0028] The partial foam cleaning device further includes a connecting rod assembly connected to the casing, the water discharge assembly, and the detergent foam generating assembly for moving the water discharge assembly and the detergent foam generating assembly between the storage position and the cleaning position. [Effects of the Invention]

[0029] By using the above technical solutions, the present invention has the following beneficial effects compared with the prior art:

[0030] 1. The present invention provides a partial foam washing device. Since the detergent is foamed directly, it is less likely to fall off the clothes and eliminates the need to wet the clothes with water, rub them, and foam them. Furthermore, the active ingredients in the foam are fully utilized, significantly improving the cleaning, disinfecting, and moisturizing effects.

[0031] 2. In the present invention, when using the partial foam washing device, the foam washing assembly is moved from inside the casing to outside the casing by the connecting rod assembly to facilitate partial washing or pre-application of detergent. Because the detergent is foamed directly, it is less likely to fall off the clothes and the process of wetting the clothes with water, rubbing them, and foaming them is eliminated. Furthermore, the active ingredients in the foam are fully utilized, significantly improving the cleaning, disinfecting, and moisturizing effects. After use, the foam washing assembly is moved from outside the casing to inside the casing by the connecting rod assembly, preventing the foam washing assembly from occupying a large amount of space.

[0032] 3. The present invention solves the technical problem that arises due to the compact structure of the partial foam cleaning device, that is, the water discharge assembly continues to discharge water using conventional control logic when in the storage position, and makes it possible to reduce the space occupied by the partial foam cleaning device in the washing machine as much as possible.

[0033] Specific embodiments of the present invention will be described in more detail below in conjunction with the drawings.

[0034] The drawings are used as part of the present invention for further understanding of the present invention. Furthermore, the schematic embodiments of the present invention and their explanations are used for interpreting 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 work. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0035] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a partial foam cleaning device in one embodiment of the present invention when in a cleaning position. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a schematic view of the partial foam cleaning device of FIG. 1 when switched to the storage position. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a schematic structural diagram of the partial foam washing device shown in FIGS. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a partial enlarged view of part A in FIG. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a schematic structural diagram of a foam generating unit. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram of a partial foam cleaning device in another embodiment of the present invention in a cleaning position. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a schematic view of the partial foam cleaning device of FIG. 6 in the stowed position. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a partially enlarged view of part B in FIG. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a schematic flowchart of a control method for the partial foam washing device according to the present invention. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is another schematic flowchart of the control method for the partial foam washing device according to the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0036] It should be explained that these drawings and written descriptions 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.

[0037] 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 in the embodiments of the present invention, which are for the purpose of illustrating the present invention but are not intended to limit the scope of the present invention.

[0038] In describing the present invention, it should be noted that 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 subject devices or components have a specific direction and must be constructed and operated in a specific direction, and therefore should not be construed as limiting the present invention.

[0039] In describing the present invention, it should be understood that unless otherwise clearly defined and limited, the terms "attach," "couple," and "connect" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they may be fixedly connected, detachably connected, or integrally connected. They may also be mechanically connected or electrically connected. Furthermore, they may be directly connected or indirectly connected via an intermediate medium. Those skilled in the art can interpret the specific meanings of the above terms in the present invention according to the specific circumstances.

[0040] As shown in FIGS. 1 to 8, the present invention provides a partial foam washing device and a washing machine.

[0041] Specifically, in some embodiments of the present invention, the partial foam cleaning device includes a casing 1 having a receiving cavity, a foam cleaning assembly 2 and a connecting rod assembly 3.

[0042] 1 and 2, the foam cleaning assembly 2 has a storage position and a cleaning position relative to the casing 1. In the storage position, the foam cleaning assembly 2 is stored in the storage cavity of the casing 1. In the cleaning position, the foam cleaning assembly 2 is located outside the storage cavity of the casing 1.

[0043] A connecting rod assembly 3 is connected to the casing 1 and the foam cleaning assembly 2, and is used to move the foam cleaning assembly 2 between the storage position and the cleaning position.

[0044] In detail, when using the partial foam washing device, the foam washing assembly 2 is moved from inside the casing 1 to outside the casing 1 by the connecting rod assembly 3 to facilitate partial washing or pre-application of detergent. Because the detergent is foamed directly, it is less likely to fall off the clothes and the process of wetting the clothes with water, rubbing them, and foaming them is omitted. In addition, the active ingredients in the foam are fully utilized, significantly improving the cleaning, disinfecting, and moisturizing effects.

[0045] After use, the foam washing assembly 2 is moved from the outside of the casing 1 to the inside of the casing 1 by the connecting rod assembly 3, thereby preventing the foam washing assembly 2 from occupying a large space.

[0046] In a further embodiment, the connecting rod assembly 3 includes a connecting rod portion 31 , a first slider 32 and a second slider 33 .

[0047] The connecting rod portion 31 is rotatable around a rotation center. The first slider 32 and the second slider 33 are provided on both ends of the connecting rod portion 31, respectively, and slide relative to the casing 1.

[0048] A pull tab 4 is further connected to the second slider 33. The pull tab 4 is connected to the foam washing assembly 2. When the pull tab 4 is pushed or pulled to move the foam washing assembly 2 between the storage position and the washing position, the second slider 33 slides relative to the casing 1 and causes the first slider 32 to slide relative to the casing 1 via the connecting rod portion 31.

[0049] Specifically, the casing 1 has a rotation center, and the connecting rod 31 moves around the rotation center in a manner similar to a pendulum. Due to the action of the connecting rod 31, the first slider 32 and the second slider 33 move along parallel trajectories. In one embodiment, the first slider 32 and the second slider 33 move along linear trajectories. However, in actual applications, the first slider 32 and the second slider 33 may move along arc-shaped trajectories, etc., as needed.

[0050] When using the partial foam washing device, the user pulls the pull-tab portion 4 to move the foam washing assembly 2 from the inside to the outside of the casing 1, causing the second slider 33 connected to the pull-tab portion 4 to slide in a first direction on the casing 1. At this time, the second slider 33 rotates the connecting rod portion 31 about the rotation center, causing the first slider 32 to slide in a second direction on the casing 1. The first direction and the second direction are opposite to each other.

[0051] After use, when the user presses the pull-tab 4 to move the foam cleaning assembly 2 from the outside to the inside of the casing 1, the second slider 33 connected to the pull-tab 4 slides in the second direction on the casing 1. At this time, the second slider 33 rotates the connecting rod 31 about the rotation center, causing the first slider 32 to slide in the first direction on the casing 1.

[0052] The first direction may be a direction toward the user, and the second direction may be a direction away from the user.

[0053] Alternatively, the foam cleaning assembly 2 can be automatically switched between the storage position and the cleaning position without manual user operation, thereby simplifying user operation.

[0054] In detail, the connecting rod assembly 3 further includes a drive unit connected to a rotation center of the connecting rod portion 31. The drive unit rotates the connecting rod portion 31 around the rotation center to slide the first slider 32 and the second slider 33 on the casing 1, thereby switching the foam washing assembly 2 between the storage position and the washing position.

[0055] In another solution, the casing 1 is provided with a position regulating portion that regulates the sliding distance between the first slider 32 and the second slider 33, so that the foam cleaning assembly 2 can be pulled out or pushed in by an appropriate distance.

[0056] In a further embodiment, the pull tab 4 includes a bottom base 41 and a connecting wall 43 .

[0057] The bottom base 41 has a first end and a second end facing each other. The first end of the bottom base 41 is connected to the second slider 33, and the second end of the bottom base 41 is configured as an operating end that is an end closer to the user. The bottom base 41 is provided below the foam washing assembly 2, and is provided with a perforated portion 42 at a portion corresponding to the foam washing assembly 2 to allow the water flow of the foam washing assembly 2 to pass through.

[0058] The connecting wall 43 also has a first end and a second end opposite to each other. The first end of the connecting wall 43 is connected to the foam cleaning assembly 2, and the second end of the connecting wall 43 is connected to the first end of the bottom base 41.

[0059] In the above solution, the user can move the foam washing assembly 2 between the storage position and the washing position by pushing and pulling the bottom base 41, which improves the stability during operation.

[0060] In addition, a perforated portion 42 is provided in the bottom base 41, allowing the water flow generated in the foam cleaning assembly 2 to immediately flow out, thereby preventing the foam from gathering and adhering to the foam cleaning assembly 2 and causing problems such as clogging.

[0061] In some embodiments of the present invention, the foam washing assembly 2 includes a water discharge unit 21, a first sensing unit 22, a foam generation unit 23 and a second sensing unit 24.

[0062] In detail, the water discharge unit 21 is used to supply wash water during partial washing. The first sensing unit 22 is used to trigger water discharge by the water discharge unit 21 when it senses clothes. The foam generation unit 23 is used to supply foam detergent during partial washing. The second sensing unit 24 is used to trigger foam detergent generation by the foam generation unit 23 when it senses clothes.

[0063] In the above solution, the activation of the foam generating unit 23 and the water discharge unit 21, which discharge detergent and water, respectively, is controlled by a sensor. In the partial cleaning process, the process of wetting the clothes and the process of adding detergent may be alternated to improve the cleaning effect in some areas.

[0064] In a further solution, the foam generation unit 23 and the second sensing unit 24 are disposed within a housing 25. The outlet of the foam generation unit 23 and the sensing end of the second sensing unit 24 are disposed on the bottom wall of the housing 25. The outlet of the foam generation unit 23 is located farther from the connecting wall 43 than the sensing end of the second sensing unit 24.

[0065] In the above solution, the foam generating unit 23 and the second sensing unit 24 are integrated and installed within the housing 25, and only an outlet for detergent foam is provided on the bottom wall of the housing 25, which improves the appearance of the entire device and enhances the user experience.

[0066] Furthermore, since the outlet of the foam generating unit 23 is located farther from the connecting wall 43 than the sensing end of the second sensing unit 24, it is possible to avoid a situation in which detergent foam begins to be discharged before the clothes reach the outlet of the foam generating unit 23.

[0067] In another solution, the water discharge unit 21 and the first sensing unit 22 are integrally integrated and located below the housing 25, and are retracted from the outlet of the foam generation unit 23 and the sensing end of the second sensing unit 24.

[0068] In the above solution, the water discharge unit 21 and the first sensing unit 22 are integrally provided, which similarly improves the appearance of the entire device and enhances the user experience.

[0069] Furthermore, since the water discharge assembly and the detergent discharge assembly are arranged one above the other, the width of the partial foam washing device can be reduced, which is advantageous for attaching the partial foam washing device to a structure such as the panel base 5 of a washing machine.

[0070] As a method of the above-mentioned retraction, for example, the size of the water discharge unit 21 and the first sensing unit 22 may be made smaller than the size of the foam generation unit 23 and the second sensing unit 24.

[0071] 3 and 4, the casing 1 is provided with a first slide groove 11 and a second slide groove 12. The first slider 32 and the second slider 33 are provided correspondingly in the first slide groove 11 and the second slide groove 12, and slide in the first slide groove 11 and the second slide groove 12, respectively.

[0072] In detail, the first slide groove 11 and the second slide groove 12 correspond one-to-one to the first slider 32 and the second slider 33. In one embodiment, the motion loci of the first slider 32 and the second slider 33 are linear motions. However, in actual application, the motion loci of the first slider 32 and the second slider 33 may be arc-shaped or the like as needed. The first slider 32 and the second slider 33 form their motion loci due to the positional restriction action of the first slide groove 11 and the second slide groove 12.

[0073] In a further embodiment, the connecting rod part 31 includes a first connecting rod 311 and a second connecting rod 312 .

[0074] The first connecting rod 311 has one end connected to the first slider 32 and the other end slidably connected to the second connecting rod 312. The other end of the second connecting rod 312 is connected to the second slider 33.

[0075] The second connecting rod 312 is connected to a rotation shaft 313 and is rotatable around the rotation shaft 313. When the second slider 33 slides in the second slide groove 12 to rotate the second connecting rod 312 around the rotation shaft 313, the first connecting rod 311 becomes slidable relative to the second connecting rod 312 along the length direction of the second connecting rod 312 and causes the first slider 32 to slide in the first slide groove 11.

[0076] Specifically, a connecting rod groove is provided on the side of the second connecting rod 312 facing the casing 1 in the longitudinal direction of the second connecting rod 312. When the first connecting rod 311 rotates, it can slide relative to the second connecting rod 312 by extending or retracting in the longitudinal direction of the second connecting rod 312 within the range of the connecting rod groove. The second connecting rod 312 also has a second opening in the longitudinal direction. The second slider 33 is provided with a second guide pin that fits into the second opening. When the connecting rod portion 31 rotates, the second guide pin slides the second slider 33 along the second slide groove 12 due to the action of the second opening. The first connecting rod 311 is also provided with a first guide pin that fits into the second opening. Therefore, by the same principle, when the connecting rod portion 31 rotates, the first guide pin, by the action of the second opening, causes the first slider 32 to slide along the first slide groove 11. The first connecting rod 311 is further provided with a first opening that fits onto the rotation shaft 313. When the first connecting rod 311 extends or retracts in the longitudinal direction of the second connecting rod 312, the first opening of the first connecting rod 311 also acts as a guide, and the first connecting rod 311 is prevented from deviating from the connecting rod groove.

[0077] Furthermore, the casing 1 is provided with a first position restricting portion and a second position restricting portion, and the second slider 33 is provided with a positioning portion. The positioning portion cooperates with the first position restricting portion and the second position restricting portion, respectively, to realize the rotational movement of the connecting rod portion 31 within a certain range.

[0078] Furthermore, the first slider 32 has one end rotatably fitted to the first connecting rod 311, and an attachment portion is provided at the other end. The attachment portion is a cylindrical attachment pin with a through-hole structure. A rotating portion is further provided to cooperate with the attachment portion. A first guard plate is provided at the attachment portion, and a second guard plate is provided at the rotating portion. A torsion spring is provided outside the attachment portion to cooperate with the first guard plate and the second guard plate. A guide portion is provided in the casing, and the torsion spring cooperates with a guide portion provided inside the casing 1. The torsion spring and guide portion enable switching between linear motion and rotational motion. The guide portion has an arc-shaped guide structure. The torsion spring provides a restoring force after switching from linear motion to rotational motion. By providing the connecting rod 31 in this manner, the rotational movement of the connecting rod 31 is switched to the linear movement of the first slider 32, and then the linear movement of the first slider 32 is switched to the rotational movement of the rotating part. This allows for a variety of application scenarios for the partial foam washing device.

[0079] Furthermore, the casing 1 is provided with a door 13 that can open and close the opening of the casing 1. The door 13 is housed inside the casing 1 so that it is easy for the user to operate, at least in the open state, and positions the entire partial foam washing device at the washing position.

[0080] In detail, the door body 13 is connected to the above-mentioned rotating part. When a user pulls the bottom base 41 to slide the second slider 33 in the second slide groove 12 and rotate the second connecting rod 312 around the rotation axis 313, the first connecting rod 311 becomes slidable relative to the second connecting rod 312 along the length direction of the second connecting rod 312, and causes the first slider 32 to slide in the first slide groove 11. Accordingly, the rotating part rotates, switching the vertical direction of the door body 13 to a horizontal direction and storing it in the casing 1.

[0081] In some embodiments of the present invention, the washing machine includes a housing, and a washing tub is provided within the housing. A panel base 5 having a clothes insertion opening 51 is provided above the housing. The partial foam washing device can be installed on the panel base 5. Preferably, the panel base 5 itself can also serve as the casing 1. The door body 13 forms a side wall of the clothes insertion opening 51 after closing the opening of the casing 1.

[0082] In some embodiments of the present invention, the water dispensing unit 21 selectively dispenses hot water, warm water, or water supplied from the main water supply after receiving the sensing signal. The detergent can be laundry liquid, disinfectant, fabric softener, bleach, fragrance, etc.

[0083] In some embodiments of the present invention, a blower is provided around the panel base 5 and is used only for drying treatment when cleaning a spot of soiling.

[0084] In some embodiments of the present invention, as shown in FIG. 5, the foam generation unit 23 includes a liquid outlet 231, a liquid inlet 232 and an air inlet 233.

[0085] In detail, the foam generation unit 23 includes an air-liquid mixing chamber communicating with the liquid discharge port 231, a liquid pump having one end communicating with the liquid supply port 232 and the other end communicating with the air-liquid mixing chamber, a gas pump having one end communicating with the air supply port 233 and the other end communicating with the air-liquid mixing chamber, and a drive mechanism used to drive the liquid pump and the gas pump and configured to receive signals to start / stop the foam generation unit 23.

[0086] In some embodiments of the present invention, as shown in FIGS. 6 to 8, the foam cleaning assembly 2 can be switched between the storage position and the cleaning position without the need for a pull tab 4.

[0087] In a specific embodiment, the partial foam washing device not only includes a casing 1 and a foam washing assembly 2, but also includes a door 13 for opening and closing the opening of the casing 1.

[0088] The connecting rod assembly 3 has one end connected to the door body 13 and the other end connected to the foam cleaning assembly 2 .

[0089] As shown in FIG. 6, when a user wants to use the foam cleaning assembly 2, the door body 13 opens the opening of the casing 1, and the foam cleaning assembly 2 moves from the storage position to the cleaning position through the connecting rod assembly 3.

[0090] As shown in Figure 7, when the user finishes using the foam cleaning assembly 2 and moves the foam cleaning assembly 2 from the cleaning position to the storage position, the door body 13 closes the opening of the casing 1 through the connecting rod assembly 3.

[0091] Specifically, the connecting rod assembly 3 includes a connecting rod portion 31 , a first slider 32 and a second slider 33 .

[0092] The connecting rod portion 31 is rotatable around a rotation center. The first slider 32 and the second slider 33 are respectively provided on both ends of the connecting rod portion 31 and slide relative to the casing 1. The door body 13 is connected to the first slider 32 via a rotating portion, and the foam washing assembly 2 is connected to the second slider 33. The door body 13 is housed in the casing 1 when the opening of the casing 1 is opened.

[0093] Furthermore, the first slider 32 is provided with a mounting pin having a through-hole structure, and a first guard plate is provided above the mounting pin. The rotating portion is inserted into the through-hole structure of the mounting pin. A second guard plate is provided on the side of the rotating portion facing the mounting pin. A torsion spring is provided covering the outside of the mounting pin. Two arms of the torsion spring cooperate with the first guard plate and the second guard plate, respectively, to regulate the position.

[0094] In detail, the casing 1 is provided with a first slide groove 11 and a second slide groove 12. The first slider 32 and the second slider 33 are provided correspondingly in the first slide groove 11 and the second slide groove 12, and slide in the first slide groove 11 and the second slide groove 12, respectively.

[0095] The first slide groove 11 and the second slide groove 12 correspond one-to-one to the first slider 32 and the second slider 33. In one embodiment, the motion loci of the first slider 32 and the second slider 33 are linear motions. However, in actual application, the motion loci of the first slider 32 and the second slider 33 may be arc-shaped or the like as needed. The first slider 32 and the second slider 33 form their motion loci due to the positional restriction action of the first slide groove 11 and the second slide groove 12.

[0096] In a further embodiment, the connecting rod part 31 includes a first connecting rod 311 and a second connecting rod 312 .

[0097] The first connecting rod 311 has one end connected to the first slider 32 and the other end slidably connected to the second connecting rod 312. The other end of the second connecting rod 312 is connected to the second slider 33.

[0098] The second connecting rod 312 is connected to a rotation shaft 313 and is rotatable around the rotation shaft 313. When the second slider 33 slides in the second slide groove 12 to rotate the second connecting rod 312 around the rotation shaft 313, the first connecting rod 311 becomes slidable relative to the second connecting rod 312 along the length direction of the second connecting rod 312 and causes the first slider 32 to slide in the first slide groove 11.

[0099] Specifically, a connecting rod groove is provided on the side of the second connecting rod 312 facing the casing 1 in the longitudinal direction of the second connecting rod 312. When the first connecting rod 311 rotates, it can slide relative to the second connecting rod 312 by extending or retracting in the longitudinal direction of the second connecting rod 312 within the range of the connecting rod groove. The second connecting rod 312 also has a second opening in the longitudinal direction. The second slider 33 is provided with a second guide pin that fits into the second opening. When the connecting rod portion 31 rotates, the second guide pin slides the second slider 33 along the second slide groove 12 due to the action of the second opening. The first connecting rod 311 is also provided with a first guide pin that fits into the second opening. Therefore, by the same principle, when the connecting rod portion 31 rotates, the first guide pin, by the action of the second opening, causes the first slider 32 to slide along the first slide groove 11. The first connecting rod 311 is further provided with a first opening that fits onto the rotation shaft 313. When the first connecting rod 311 extends or retracts in the longitudinal direction of the second connecting rod 312, the first opening of the first connecting rod 311 also acts as a guide, and the first connecting rod 311 is prevented from deviating from the connecting rod groove.

[0100] Furthermore, the casing 1 is provided with a first position restricting portion and a second position restricting portion, and the second slider 33 is provided with a positioning portion. The positioning portion cooperates with the first position restricting portion and the second position restricting portion, respectively, to realize the rotational movement of the connecting rod portion 31 within a certain range.

[0101] The first slider 32 has one end rotatably fitted to the first connecting rod 311, and an attachment portion provided at the other end. The attachment portion is a cylindrical attachment pin with a through-hole structure. A rotating portion is further provided to cooperate with the attachment portion. The rotating portion is connected to the door body 13. A first guard plate is provided at the attachment portion, and a second guard plate is provided at the rotating portion. A torsion spring is provided on the outside of the attachment portion to cooperate with the first and second guard plates. A guide portion is provided on the casing 1, and the torsion spring cooperates with a guide portion provided inside the casing 1. The torsion spring and guide portion enable switching between linear motion and rotational motion. The guide portion has an arc-shaped guide structure. The torsion spring provides a restoring force after switching from linear motion to rotational motion. By providing it in this manner, the rotational movement of the connecting rod portion 31 is switched to the linear movement of the first slider 32, and then the linear movement of the first slider 32 is switched to the rotational movement of the rotating portion, and vice versa.

[0102] When the user manually opens the door body 13, the door body 13 rotates the pivoting part and slides the first slider 32 rearward on the casing 1 as it switches from the vertical position to the horizontal position. During the sliding process, the first slider 32 rotates the first connecting rod 311 and the second connecting rod 312 about the rotation center, causing the second slider 33 to slide forward relative to the casing 1. At this time, the second slider 33 moves the foam washing assembly 2 from inside the casing 1 to outside the casing 1, thereby realizing the movement of the foam washing assembly 2 from the storage position to the washing position.

[0103] Conversely, when the user manually pushes the foam washing assembly 2, the foam washing assembly 2 causes the second slider 33 to slide rearward on the casing 1, causing the second connecting rod 312 to rotate about its center of rotation, and also causes the first connecting rod 311 to rotate about its center of rotation, causing the first slider 32 to slide forward relative to the casing 1. At the same time, the rotating part rotates, switching the door body 13 from the horizontal position to the vertical position and closing the opening of the casing 1. This allows the foam washing assembly 2 to move from the washing position to the storage position.

[0104] In some embodiments of the present invention, the connecting rod assembly 3 further includes a drive unit connected to the connecting rod portion 31 to rotate the connecting rod portion 31 around the center of rotation. The drive unit may be a motor.

[0105] In another solution, when the door body 13 opens the opening of the casing 1, the driving unit detects a current signal and then rotates the connecting rod part 31 in a first direction around the rotation center, thereby automatically moving the foam washing assembly 2 from the storage position to the washing position.

[0106] When the foam cleaning assembly 2 is pushed and moved from the cleaning position toward the storage position, the drive unit detects a current signal and then rotates the connecting rod portion 31 in a second direction around the rotation center, thereby causing the door body 13 to automatically close the opening of the casing 1.

[0107] The above solution can assist the foam cleaning assembly 2 to switch between the storage position and the cleaning position, improving the user experience.

[0108] Some embodiments of the present invention further provide a method for controlling the partial foam cleaning device, which is applied to the partial foam cleaning device described above.

[0109] The partial foam cleaning device includes a water discharge assembly and a detergent foam generating assembly.

[0110] The water discharge assembly is used to supply wash water during partial cleaning, and the detergent foam generating assembly is used to supply foam detergent during partial cleaning.

[0111] Preferably, the water discharge assembly includes a water discharge unit 21 and a first sensing unit 22 that controls whether the water discharge unit 21 is triggered. The detergent foam generation assembly includes the foam generation unit 23 and a second sensing unit 24 that controls whether the foam generation unit 23 is triggered.

[0112] As shown in FIGS. 9 and 10, the control method includes the following steps:

[0113] The distance from the sensing end of the water discharge assembly to the obstruction is determined to be smaller than the trigger distance, and if it is smaller, the water discharge assembly is controlled to be in a non-triggered state, whereas if it is not small, the water discharge assembly is controlled to be in a triggered state.

[0114] The method determines whether the distance from the sensing end of the detergent foam generating assembly to the shield is smaller than the trigger distance, and if it is smaller, controls the detergent foam generating assembly to be in a triggered state, while if it is not smaller, controls the detergent foam generating assembly to be in a non-triggered state.

[0115] Specifically, the partial foam washing device further includes a casing 1. The water discharge assembly and the detergent foam generation assembly have a storage position and a washing position relative to the casing 1, and can be switched between the storage position and the washing position.

[0116] The water discharge assembly includes the water discharge unit 21 and a first sensing unit 22, and the detergent foam generation assembly includes the foam generation unit 23 and a second sensing unit 24.

[0117] In the storage position, the bottom wall of the casing 1 forms a shield for the water discharge assembly and the detergent foam generation assembly, and in the cleaning position, the object to be cleaned forms a shield for the water discharge assembly and the detergent foam generation assembly.

[0118] While the sensing units of the prior art all discharge water or detergent when they detect an obstruction, the control logic of the first sensing unit 22 of the present invention is opposite to the conventional control logic, because the water discharge assembly and the detergent foam generation assembly of the present invention have a storage position and a washing position relative to the casing 1.

[0119] In order to minimize the space occupied by the partial foam washing device in the washing machine, the casing 1 is designed to be as small as possible. Therefore, in the storage position, the water spouting assembly and the detergent foam generation assembly must be as compact as possible. Here, the water spouting assembly is located below the detergent foam generation assembly. As a result, in the storage position, the distance between the detergent foam generation assembly and the bottom wall of the casing 1 is large, and should be at least larger than the trigger distance of the second sensing unit 24. Meanwhile, the distance between the first sensing unit 22 of the water spouting assembly and the bottom wall of the casing 1 is small, and should be smaller than the trigger distance of the first sensing unit 22.

[0120] Therefore, when the conventional control logic is used, the first sensing unit 22 always senses an obstruction in the housed position, causing the water to continue to be discharged.

[0121] To solve the above technical problem, the present invention modifies the control logic of the water spouting assembly so that, when the distance from the sensing end of the water spouting assembly to the obstruction is determined to be shorter than the trigger distance, the water spouting assembly is controlled to a non-triggered state, thereby preventing the water spouting assembly from discharging water. On the other hand, when the distance from the sensing end of the water spouting assembly to the obstruction is determined to be equal to or longer than the trigger distance, the water spouting assembly is controlled to a triggered state, thereby allowing the water spouting assembly to start discharging water. In contrast, the control logic of the detergent foam generating assembly employs a conventional control logic. That is, when the distance from the sensing end of the detergent foam generating assembly to the obstruction is determined to be shorter than the trigger distance, the detergent foam generating assembly is controlled to a triggered state, thereby allowing the detergent foam generating assembly to trigger the detergent foam generating assembly to discharge. However, when the distance from the sensing end of the detergent foam generating assembly to the obstruction is determined to be equal to or longer than the trigger distance, the detergent foam generating assembly is controlled to a non-triggered state, thereby preventing the detergent foam generating assembly from triggering the detergent foam generating assembly to discharge detergent.

[0122] The above control method not only solves the technical problem of the water discharge assembly continuing to discharge water when in the storage position due to the compact structure of the partial foam washing device, but also provides advantages in controlling the water discharge unit 21 and the foam generation unit 23 when in the washing position.

[0123] In more detail, a case will be described in which the partial foam washing device is mounted on the panel base 5 of the washing machine with the water discharge assembly and the detergent foam generation assembly in the washing position relative to the casing 1. When a user does not place clothes below the partial foam washing device, the first sensing unit 22 does not sense an obstacle, causing the water discharge unit 21 to be in a triggered state, thereby enabling continuous water discharge or intermittent water discharge at a predetermined frequency. Furthermore, the second sensing unit 24 does not sense an obstacle, causing the foam generation unit 23 to be in a non-triggered state, thereby preventing the foam generation unit 23 from discharging detergent foam. On the other hand, when a user places clothes below the partial foam washing device, the first sensing unit 22 senses an obstacle, causing the water discharge unit 21 to be switched to a non-triggered state and no longer discharging water. Furthermore, the second sensing unit 24 senses an obstacle, causing the foam generation unit 23 to be in a triggered state, thereby preventing the foam generation unit 23 from discharging detergent foam.

[0124] Due to control hysteresis, when a user places clothes under the partial foam washing device, there is a certain delay before the water discharge unit 21 stops discharging water, and this delay can be used to wet the clothes.

[0125] Furthermore, a delay time may be set between when first sensing unit 22 senses an obstruction and when water discharge unit 21 switches from the triggered state to the non-triggered state. The set delay time ensures that enough water is discharged to sufficiently wet the clothes. Furthermore, by setting the delay time between when second sensing unit 24 senses an obstruction and when foam generation unit 23 switches from the non-triggered state to the triggered state, water discharge and detergent discharge can be continued without interruption.

[0126] A further solution includes controlling the detergent foam generating assembly to be in a trigger state, and then activating the detergent foam generating assembly for a predetermined period of time to dispense detergent, and then again suspending activation until it is determined whether the distance from the sensing end of the detergent foam generating assembly to an obstruction is smaller than the trigger distance.

[0127] According to the above solution, it is possible to prevent the occurrence of a situation in which the discharge of liquid does not stop due to an incorrect trigger.

[0128] It is noted that trigger position marks may be provided at appropriate positions on the washing tub or casing 1 of the washing machine to help users place the clothes accurately within the trigger ranges of the first and second sensing units 22, 24.

[0129] In an alternative embodiment, the method includes controlling the water discharge assembly to be in a trigger state, and then controlling the water discharge assembly to start discharging water, and determining whether the detergent foam generating assembly has started discharging detergent, and if so, controlling the water discharge assembly to temporarily suspend the start of water discharge.

[0130] For example, if a user has special needs such as not wanting to apply foam detergent to wet clothes, the user must take special care when placing the clothes below the partial foam washing device not to place them below water discharge unit 21. In this case, first sensing unit 22 does not sense an obstruction and continues to discharge water, but second sensing unit 24 detects an obstruction and controls foam generation unit 23 to discharge detergent foam. In this case, when the control unit detects that foam generation unit 23 has been triggered and has started discharging detergent, it controls water discharge unit 21 to stop discharging water even if first sensing unit 22 has not sensed an obstruction.

[0131] The above description is merely a preferred embodiment of the present invention and is not intended to limit the present invention in any way. 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 changes or modifications that can be made by those skilled in the art using the technical content presented above are equivalently modified equivalent embodiments, and none of them deviate from the content of the technical solution of the present invention. Furthermore, any simple modifications, equivalent variations, and modifications made to the above embodiments based on the technical essence of the present invention all fall within the scope of the solution of the present invention. [Explanation of symbols]

[0132] 1 casing 11 First slide groove 12 Second slide groove 13 Door body 2 Foam Cleaning Assembly 21 Water discharge unit 22 First Sensing Unit 23 Foam generating unit 231 Liquid spout 232 Liquid supply port 233 Air supply port 24 Second sensing unit 25 Housing 3 Connecting Rod Assembly 31 Connecting rod section 311 First connecting rod 312 Second connecting rod 313 Rotational Axis 32 First slider 33 Second slider 4. Handle 41 Bottom Base 42 Watermark section 43 Connecting Wall 5 Panel Base 51 Clothes slot

Claims

1. A method for controlling a partial foam washing device including a water discharge assembly for supplying washing water during partial washing and a detergent foam generating assembly for supplying foamy detergent during partial washing, determining whether the distance from the sensing end of the water discharge assembly to the obstruction is smaller than a trigger distance, and if so, controlling the water discharge assembly to be in a non-triggered state, while if not, controlling the water discharge assembly to be in a triggered state; A control method comprising the steps of: determining whether the distance from the sensing end of the detergent foam generating assembly to an obstruction is smaller than a trigger distance; and if so, controlling the detergent foam generating assembly to be in a triggered state; and if not, controlling the detergent foam generating assembly to be in a non-triggered state.

2. The partial foam washing device further includes a casing, and the water discharge assembly and the detergent foam generating assembly have a storage position and a washing position relative to the casing, and are switchable between the storage position and the washing position; In the storage position, the bottom wall of the casing forms a shield for the water discharge assembly and the detergent foam generation assembly; The method for controlling a partial foam washing device according to claim 1, wherein, in the washing position, the object to be washed constitutes a shield for the water discharge assembly and the detergent foam generating assembly.

3. After controlling the water discharge assembly to be in a triggered state, activating and controlling the water discharge assembly to discharge water continuously; Alternatively, controlling the water discharge assembly to discharge water intermittently at a predetermined frequency; 3. The method for controlling a partial foam cleaning device according to claim 2, further comprising:

4. After controlling the detergent foam generating assembly to be in a triggered state, 3. The method for controlling a partial foam cleaning device according to claim 2, further comprising controlling the detergent foam generating assembly to start for a predetermined time to discharge detergent, and then temporarily suspending the start-up until it is determined whether the distance from the sensing end of the detergent foam generating assembly to an obstruction is smaller than the trigger distance.

5. After controlling the water discharge assembly to be in a triggered state, Controlling the water spouting assembly to start spouting water; determining whether the detergent foam generating assembly has started discharging the detergent, and if it has started, controlling the water discharge assembly to temporarily stop discharging the water; The method for controlling a partial foam cleaning device according to claim 4, further comprising:

6. the water discharge assembly includes a water discharge unit and a first sensing unit that controls whether the water discharge unit is triggered; the detergent foam generating assembly includes a foam generating unit and a second sensing unit for controlling whether the foam generating unit is triggered; A control method for a partial foam cleaning device described in any one of claims 2 to 5, characterized in that, in the storage position, the distance from the first sensing unit to the bottom wall of the casing is smaller than the trigger distance, and the distance from the second sensing unit to the bottom wall of the casing is greater than the trigger distance.

7. A method for controlling a partial foam cleaning device as described in claim 6, characterized in that the foam generation unit and the second sensing unit are integrally integrated and arranged in a housing, the outlet of the foam generation unit and the sensing end of the second sensing unit are arranged on the bottom wall of the housing, and the outlet of the foam generation unit is located farther from the casing than the sensing end of the second sensing unit.

8. A control method for a partial foam cleaning device as described in claim 7, characterized in that the water discharge unit and the first sensing unit are integrated and located below the housing, and are retreated from the outlet of the foam generation unit and the sensing end of the second sensing unit.

9. A partial foam washing device used to carry out the control method according to any one of claims 2 to 5.

10. Furthermore, 10. The partial foam washing device according to claim 9, further comprising a connecting rod assembly connected to the casing, the water discharge assembly, and the detergent foam generating assembly for moving the water discharge assembly and the detergent foam generating assembly between the storage position and the washing position.

11. a casing having a receiving cavity; a foam cleaning assembly having a storage position and a cleaning position relative to the casing, the foam cleaning assembly being stored within the storage cavity of the casing at the storage position and being located outside the storage cavity of the casing at the cleaning position; a door body for opening and closing the opening of the casing; a linkage assembly for controlling the movement of the foam cleaning assembly in conjunction with the movement of the door body; When the door body opens the opening of the casing, the foam cleaning assembly moves from the storage position to the cleaning position via the interlocking assembly; The partial foam cleaning device according to claim 9, wherein the door closes the opening of the casing through the interlocking assembly when the foam cleaning assembly is moved from the cleaning position to the storage position.

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