Drain valve, washing machine and washing method

Abstract

A drain valve, a washing machine and a washing method. The drain valve comprises a valve body (100) and at least two filtering mechanisms, wherein a water inlet (107) and a first water outlet (108) are formed on the valve body (100), a first flow channel communicating the water inlet (107) and the first water outlet (108) is formed in the valve body (100), the first water outlet (108) is configured to be communicated with a circulating pump (30), the at least two filtering mechanisms are arranged spaced apart in the first flow channel along a water flow direction, and the filtration precisions of at least some of the filtering mechanisms are different.

Description

Drain valve, washing machine and washing method

[0001] This application claims priority to the Chinese patent application filed with the China Patent Office on February 23, 2024, with application number 202410200987.5, the entire contents of which are incorporated by reference into this application. Technical Field

[0002] The present application relates to the technical field of clothing processing, for example, to a drain valve, a washing machine and a washing method. Background Art

[0003] Washing machines are among the most common household appliances, capable of washing and drying clothes. They are widely used in daily life, reducing workload and improving quality of life. When a washing machine performs a cycle wash cycle, wash water is repeatedly pumped into the wash tub by a circulating pump. During the washing process, fine fibers from the clothes break away and enter the wash water, degrading the wash water quality. Poor wash water not only affects the washing process but also shortens the life of the circulating pump. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The present application provides a drain valve, which has a filtering function and a good filtering effect, and can effectively improve the quality of water passing through the drain valve.

[0005] The present application provides a drain valve, comprising: a valve body, a water inlet and a first water outlet formed on the valve body, a first flow channel formed in the valve body connecting the water inlet and the first water outlet, and the first water outlet being configured to be connected to a circulation pump; at least two filtering mechanisms, at least two of the filtering mechanisms being arranged in the first flow channel at intervals along the direction of water flow, and at least some of the filtering mechanisms having different filtering accuracies.

[0006] In one or more embodiments, there are two filtering mechanisms, which are a first filtering mechanism and a second filtering mechanism. The filtering accuracy of the first filtering mechanism is less than that of the second filtering mechanism, and along the water flow direction in the first flow channel, the first filtering mechanism is arranged upstream of the second filtering mechanism.

[0007] In one or more embodiments, at least a portion of the filtering mechanism is detachably connected to the valve body.

[0008] In one or more embodiments, one of the filtering mechanisms is a first filtering mechanism, which includes a filter cartridge and a rotating adsorption component. An installation port is formed on the valve body, and the filter cartridge is inserted into the first flow channel through the installation port. A plurality of water holes are circumferentially arranged on the filter cartridge, and the rotating adsorption component is rotatably connected to the filter cartridge.

[0009] In one or more embodiments, the first filtering mechanism further includes a driving member, which is transmission-connected to the rotating adsorption member and is configured to drive the rotating adsorption member to rotate.

[0010] In one or more embodiments, the rotating adsorption member includes a rotating shaft and a plurality of adsorption cap brushes, the rotating shaft is arranged perpendicular to the water flow direction in the first flow channel, and the plurality of adsorption cap brushes are arranged at intervals along the axial direction of the rotating shaft.

[0011] In one or more embodiments, one of the filtering mechanisms is a second filtering mechanism, the second filtering mechanism is a filter plate, the filter plate is arranged at the first water outlet, and a plurality of filtering holes are formed on the filter plate.

[0012] In one or more embodiments, a second water outlet that can be selectively opened and closed is formed on the valve body, a second flow channel connecting the water inlet and the second water outlet is formed in the valve body, and the second water outlet is configured to connect to a drain pipe.

[0013] The present application also provides a washing machine, the drain valve of which has a filtering function, which can filter out impurities in the washing water, improve the water quality, and is conducive to improving the washing effect and reducing the failure rate of the circulation pump.

[0014] The present application also provides a washing machine, comprising a washing tub, a circulation pump and the above-mentioned drain valve, wherein a first drain outlet is formed at the bottom of the washing tub, a water replenishment port is formed at the top of the washing tub, the water inlet of the drain valve is connected to the first drain outlet, and the circulation pump is connected between the first water outlet of the drain valve and the water replenishment port through a circulation pipeline.

[0015] In one or more embodiments, the washing machine further includes a high-pressure nozzle, which is connected to one of the water supply ports and is configured to spray washing water into the washing tub; and / or, the washing machine further includes a high-pressure rotary nozzle, which is rotatably connected to another of the water supply ports and is configured to spray washing water into the washing tub with an adjustable spray direction.

[0016] The present application also provides a washing method, which improves the washing effect of clothes and reduces the failure rate of the circulation pump.

[0017] The present application also provides a washing method, which is applied to the above-mentioned washing machine, and the washing method comprises the following steps:

[0018] Execute the washing cycle program;

[0019] The washing water in the washing tub is discharged into the first flow channel of the drain valve through the first drain port;

[0020] At least two filtering mechanisms filter the washing water multiple times;

[0021] The filtered washing water reaches the water replenishing port located at the top of the washing tub through the circulation pump and the circulation pipeline, and enters the washing tub again through the water replenishing port.

[0022] In one or more embodiments, the washing method further comprises the following steps:

[0023] Determine whether the washing tub needs to be self-cleaned;

[0024] If necessary, the high-pressure rotary nozzle is turned on, and the filtered washing water reaches the water replenishment port at the top of the washing tub through the circulation pump and the circulation pipeline, and is sprayed into the washing tub through the high-pressure rotary nozzle.

[0025] In one or more embodiments, the washing method further comprises the following steps:

[0026] Determining whether foam needs to be eliminated in the washing tub;

[0027] If necessary, the high-pressure nozzle is turned on, and the filtered washing water reaches the water replenishment port at the top of the washing tub through the circulation pump and the circulation pipeline, and is sprayed into the washing tub through the high-pressure nozzle.

[0028] In one or more embodiments, the washing method further comprises the following steps:

[0029] Obtaining the amount of debris deposited on the filtering mechanism;

[0030] determining whether the amount of debris deposited on the filter mechanism is greater than a threshold;

[0031] If the amount of sediment is greater than a threshold, the user is reminded to disassemble the filter mechanism and clean the filter mechanism.

[0032] In one or more embodiments, the washing method further comprises the following steps:

[0033] Obtaining the amount of undissolved detergent in the wash water;

[0034] determining whether the amount of undissolved detergent in the washing water exceeds a threshold;

[0035] If it exceeds, the driving member of the first filtering mechanism is started, so that the driving member can drive the rotating adsorption member to rotate in the forward direction to stir the washing water.

[0036] In one or more embodiments, the washing method further comprises the following steps:

[0037] Perform drainage procedures;

[0038] Close the first water outlet of the drain valve and open the second water outlet of the drain valve;

[0039] The washing water in the washing tub is discharged into the second flow channel of the drain valve through the first drain port;

[0040] The driving member of the first filter mechanism is started so that the driving member can drive the rotary adsorption member to rotate in the opposite direction, thereby achieving self-cleaning of the first filter mechanism. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0041] FIG1 is a schematic diagram of a washing machine provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0042] FIG2 is a schematic diagram of a drain valve provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0043] FIG3 is a side view of a drain valve provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0044] FIG4 is a cross-sectional view taken along the AA direction in FIG3 ;

[0045] FIG5 is a flow chart of the washing method provided in an embodiment of the present application.

[0046] In the figure: 10, drain valve; 20, washing tub; 30, circulation pump; 40, circulation pipeline; 41, first pipeline; 42, second pipeline; 421, main pipe; 422, first branch pipe; 423, second branch pipe; 424, third branch pipe; 43, switch valve; 50, high-pressure nozzle; 60, high-pressure rotary nozzle; 70, drain pipe; 701, first drain outlet; 100, valve body; 101, main pipe; 102, first branch pipe; 103, second branch pipe; 104, third branch pipe; 105, fourth branch pipe; 106, valve core structure; 1061, valve core housing; 1062, valve core member; 107, water inlet; 108, first water outlet; 109, second water outlet; 200, first filter mechanism; 210, filter cartridge; 211, water hole; 220, rotary adsorption member; 221, Rotating shaft; 222, adsorption cap brush; 230, driving member; 300, second filtering mechanism; 301, filtering hole. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0047] The technical solution of the present application will be described below in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. The described embodiments are only part of the embodiments of the present application, rather than all of the embodiments.

[0048] In the description of this application, the terms "center," "up," "down," "left," "right," "vertical," "horizontal," "inside," and "outside" and the like indicate positions or location relationships based on the positions or location relationships shown in the accompanying drawings. These terms are used solely to facilitate the description of this application and to simplify the description. They do not indicate or imply that the devices or components referred to must have a specific orientation, be constructed, or operate in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on this application. Furthermore, the terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance. The terms "first position" and "second position" refer to two different positions.

[0049] In the description of this application, unless otherwise specified or limited, the terms "mounted," "connected," and "connected" should be understood broadly. For example, they can refer to fixed or detachable connections; mechanical or electrical connections; direct or indirect connections through an intermediary; and internal communication between two components. The meaning of these terms in this application should be understood in specific contexts.

[0050] As shown in Figure 1, the present application provides a drain valve 10, which can be used in a washing machine. In addition to being used in a washing machine, the drain valve 10 can also be used in other equipment with drainage requirements, such as a dishwasher. As shown in Figures 2 to 4, the drain valve 10 includes a valve body 100 and at least two filtering mechanisms. A water inlet 107 and a first water outlet 108 are formed on the valve body 100. A first flow channel connecting the water inlet 107 and the first water outlet 108 is formed in the valve body 100. The first water outlet 108 is configured to connect to a circulation pump 30. At least two filtering mechanisms are arranged in the first flow channel at intervals along the direction of water flow, and the filtering precision of at least some of the filtering mechanisms is different.

[0051] The drain valve 10 is arranged upstream of the circulation pump 30 and has at least two filtering mechanisms in the valve body 100. It can filter the water at least twice before the water flows into the circulation pump 30. Since the filtering precisions of at least some of the filtering mechanisms are different, the drain valve 10 has a good filtering effect on water, which greatly improves the water quality of the water passing through the drain valve 10.

[0052] In some embodiments, a second water outlet 109 that can be selectively opened and closed is formed on the valve body 100. A second flow channel is formed within the valve body 100, connecting the water inlet 107 and the second water outlet 109. The second water outlet 109 is configured to connect to the drain pipe 70, through which the wash water can be directly discharged after the wash task. The first flow channel and the second flow channel are generally not opened at the same time. When the first flow channel is opened, the water in the drain valve 10 flows to the circulation pump 30. When the second flow channel is opened, the water in the drain valve 10 flows to the drain pipe 70.

[0053] Continuing with FIG. 2 , in some embodiments, the valve body 100 includes a main pipe 101, a first branch pipe 102, and a second branch pipe 103. The central axis of the main pipe 101 is a first axis, and the central axis of the first branch pipe 102 is a second axis. The second axis is perpendicular to the first axis, such that the first branch pipe 102 and the main pipe 101 are connected in a T-shape. The end of the first branch pipe 102 distal from the main pipe 101 serves as the water inlet 107. The second branch pipe 103 is coaxially arranged with the main pipe 101, and the diameter of the second branch pipe 103 is smaller than that of the main pipe 101. The end of the second branch pipe 103 distal from the main pipe 101 serves as the first water outlet 108.

[0054] Exemplarily, as shown in Figures 2 and 4, the valve body 100 also includes a valve core structure 106, which is arranged at an end of the main pipe 101 away from the second branch pipe 103. The valve core structure 106 includes a valve core shell 1061 and a valve core component 1062. A water flow channel is formed in the valve core shell 1061. The valve core component 1062 is arranged in the valve core shell 1061 and can control the on and off of the water flow channel.

[0055] 2 , the valve body 100 further includes a third branch pipe 104, the central axis of which is a third axis, which is perpendicular to the first axis and angled with the second axis. The third branch pipe 104 is disposed on the valve core housing 1061 and is connected to the outlet of the valve core housing 1061. The port of the third branch pipe 104 away from the valve core housing 1061 forms a second water outlet 109. Exemplarily, the valve body 100 further includes a fourth branch pipe 105, the central axis of which is a fourth axis, which is perpendicular to the first axis and angled with the second axis. The second branch pipe 103 is configured to be installed with a filter mechanism.

[0056] The number of filter mechanisms can be set to two, three or more according to needs. In some embodiments, referring to Figure 2, two filter mechanisms are provided, namely a first filter mechanism 200 and a second filter mechanism 300. The filtering accuracy of the first filter mechanism 200 is less than that of the second filter mechanism 300, and along the direction of water flow in the first flow channel, the first filter mechanism 200 is arranged upstream of the second filter mechanism 300. In some embodiments, at least part of the filter mechanism is detachably connected to the valve body 100, so that the filter mechanism is easy to disassemble for cleaning, so that the filter mechanism can be reused. The first filter mechanism 200 and the second filter mechanism 300 can have the same structure, but only different filtering accuracy; or there can be essential differences in structure, resulting in different filtering accuracy. The higher the filtering accuracy, the more impurities can be filtered out.

[0057] One of the filtering mechanisms is the first filtering mechanism 200, which includes a filter cartridge 210 and a rotating adsorption component 220. An installation port is formed on the valve body 100, and the filter cartridge 210 is inserted into the first flow channel through the installation port. A plurality of water holes 211 are circumferentially arranged on the filter cartridge 210, and the rotating adsorption component 220 is rotatably connected to the filter cartridge 210.

[0058] Continuing with Figure 4 , the first filter mechanism 200 includes a filter cartridge 210 and a rotating adsorbent 220. A mounting port is formed on the valve body 100, through which the filter cartridge 210 is inserted into the first flow channel. The filter cartridge 210 is circumferentially provided with a plurality of water holes 211, and the rotating adsorbent 220 is rotatably connected within the filter cartridge 210. When the valve body 100 includes a fourth branch pipe 105, the end of the fourth branch pipe 105 distal from the main pipe 101 serves as the mounting port. If the valve body 100 does not include a fourth branch pipe 105, a mounting port may be provided directly on the main pipe 101. By adjusting the size of the water holes 211 and the size or rotational speed of the rotating adsorbent 220, the first filter mechanism 200 can be configured to have different filtration accuracies. In other words, by adjusting the size of the water holes 211 and the size of the rotating adsorbent 220, the first filter mechanism 200 can be used as another filter mechanism.

[0059] In some embodiments, the filter cartridge 210 includes a filter portion at least partially located within the first flow channel. The outer wall of the filter portion abuts the inner wall of the main pipe 101, allowing the filter portion to completely cover the entire first flow channel. Water flowing to the filter portion can only enter the filter cartridge 210 through the water hole 211. At this time, the filter cartridge 210 can achieve initial filtration of the water. Subsequently, the water contacts the rotating adsorption element 220 to achieve secondary filtration of the water. In other words, the first filter mechanism 200 can achieve two filtrations of the water, resulting in a better filtration effect. In one embodiment, the main pipe 101 is a circular tube and the filter portion is spherical; in another embodiment, the main pipe 101 is a circular tube and the filter portion is cylindrical.

[0060] In one embodiment, the plurality of water holes 211 are regularly arranged on the filter cartridge 210. For example, the plurality of water holes 211 may be distributed in multiple circles along the axial direction of the filter cartridge 210, with each circle of water holes 211 comprising a plurality of water holes 211 evenly distributed along the circumference of the filter cartridge 210. This can reduce the resistance encountered by water passing through the filter cartridge 210 and improve the filtering effect.

[0061] In one embodiment, the filter cartridge 210 further includes a plug-in portion that connects to the filter portion and is inserted into the fourth branch pipe 105. In another embodiment, the filter cartridge 210 further includes a screw cap portion that is connected to the end of the plug-in portion away from the filter portion. The outer wall of the fourth branch pipe 105 is formed with an external thread structure, and the screw cap portion is buckled onto the fourth branch pipe 105. The screw cap portion also has an internal thread structure, and is threadedly connected to the fourth branch pipe 105. In other embodiments, the inner wall of the fourth branch pipe 105 may be formed with an internal thread structure, and the outer wall of the screw cap portion may be formed with an external thread structure, thereby achieving a threaded connection between the filter cartridge 210 and the fourth branch pipe 105. In addition to a threaded connection, the filter cartridge 210 and the fourth branch pipe 105 may also be detachably connected using other methods, such as a snap-fit ​​connection, a magnetic connection, etc. In one embodiment, the rotating adsorption member 220 extends into the plug-in portion and the filter portion. In another embodiment, the rotating adsorption member 220 may be disposed only within the filter portion.

[0062] Continuing with Figure 4 , in some embodiments, the rotating adsorption member 220 includes a shaft 221 and multiple adsorption brushes 222. The shaft 221 is rotatably connected to the filter cartridge 210 and positioned perpendicular to the direction of water flow within the first flow channel. The multiple adsorption brushes 222 are spaced axially along the shaft 221. When water enters the filter cartridge 210 through the water passage 211, the rotating adsorption member 220 rotates autonomously about the shaft 221 under the action of the water flow. The multiple adsorption brushes 222 rotate synchronously, allowing impurities in the water (such as fibers and threads detached from clothing, impurities stuck to clothing, etc.) to be attracted to or entangled with the shaft 221 or the adsorption brushes 222, thereby collecting the impurities. In one embodiment, the adsorption brushes 222 are high-friction bristles; in another embodiment, they are flexible side brushes. The filtration accuracy can be adjusted by adjusting the number of adsorption brushes 222 positioned on the shaft 221.

[0063] For example, to achieve automatic rotation of the rotating adsorbent 220 and facilitate adjustment of the rotation direction of the rotating adsorbent 220 as needed, the first filtering mechanism 200 further includes a driving member 230, which is in transmission connection with the rotating adsorbent 220 and is configured to drive the rotating adsorbent 220 to rotate. In one embodiment, the driving member 230 is a micro motor.

[0064] One of the filter mechanisms is a second filter mechanism 300 , which is a filter plate. The filter plate is disposed at the first water outlet 108 , and a plurality of filter holes 301 are formed on the filter plate.

[0065] Continuing with Figure 2 , the second filter mechanism 300 is a filter plate, which is positioned at the first water outlet 108 and has a plurality of filter holes 301 formed therein. After being filtered by the first filter mechanism 200, the water flows to the second filter mechanism 300 for further filtration. After being filtered by the first and second filter mechanisms 200 and 300, the water flows out of the first water outlet 108 and into the circulation pump 30. Due to the reduced amount of impurities in the water, the water quality improves, and the water flowing into the circulation pump 30 is less likely to clog the circulation pump 30, thereby reducing the failure rate of the circulation pump 30 and increasing its service life.

[0066] In one embodiment, the filter plate is a circular plate, and the filter holes 301 are circular holes. In one embodiment, the filter holes 301 are radially distributed on the filter plate. In one embodiment, the filter holes 301 are distributed as multiple concentric circles on the filter plate. In one embodiment, the filter holes 301 are arranged in rows and columns on the filter plate.

[0067] As shown in FIG1 , the present application further provides a washing machine comprising a washing tub 20, a circulating pump 30, and the aforementioned drain valve 10. A first drain outlet is formed at the bottom of the washing tub 20, a water supply port is formed at the top of the washing tub 20, a water inlet 107 of the drain valve 10 is connected to the first drain outlet, and the circulating pump 30 is connected between the first water outlet 108 of the drain valve 10 and the water supply port via a circulating pipe 40. Because the drain valve 10 has a good filtering function and can filter out impurities in the wash water and improve the water quality, the washing water in the washing tub 20 can be filtered through the drain valve 10 and then flow back into the washing tub 20 under the driving action of the circulating pump 30, thereby improving the washing effect on the clothes, reducing damage to the circulating pump 30 and the failure rate, and facilitating the increase in the service life of the circulating pump 30.

[0068] The washing machine also includes a high-pressure nozzle 50, which is connected to a water supply port and is configured to spray washing water into the washing tub 20; and / or, the washing machine also includes a high-pressure rotary nozzle 60, which is rotatably connected to another water supply port and is configured to spray washing water into the washing tub 20 and the spraying direction is adjustable.

[0069] The number of water inlets can be multiple as needed. In some embodiments, two or three water inlets are provided. Continuing with FIG1 , the washing machine further includes a high-pressure nozzle 50 , which is connected to one of the water inlets and sprays high-pressure wash water into the washing tub 20 through the water inlet. Using the high-pressure nozzle 50 to spray high-pressure wash water into the washing tub 20 can help eliminate excessive foam in the washing tub 20.

[0070] Continuing with FIG. 1 , in some embodiments, the washing machine further includes a high-pressure rotary nozzle 60 rotatably connected to the water inlet and configured to spray high-pressure washing water into the washing tub 20 in an adjustable spray direction. The high-pressure rotary nozzle 60 sprays high-pressure washing water into the washing tub 20 in an adjustable spray direction, allowing the high-pressure washing water to be sprayed at different locations within the washing tub 20, thereby cleaning the washing tub 20.

[0071] In one embodiment, the circulation pipeline 40 includes a first pipeline 41 and a second pipeline 42. The first pipeline 41 is connected between the first water outlet 108 of the drain valve 10 and the inlet of the circulation pump 30, and the second pipeline 42 is connected between the outlet of the circulation pump 30 and the water supply port. Exemplarily, the second pipeline 42 includes a main pipe 421, a first branch pipe 422, a second branch pipe 423, and a third branch pipe 424. There are three water supply ports. The main pipe 421 is connected to the outlet of the circulation pump 30, and the first branch pipe 422, the second branch pipe 423, and the third branch pipe 424 are respectively connected to the three water supply ports. The first branch pipe 422 directly extends into the first water supply port. The high-pressure nozzle 50 is provided on the second branch pipe 423 extending into the second water supply port, and the high-pressure rotary nozzle 60 is provided on the third branch pipe 424 extending into the third water supply port. The first branch pipe 422 , the second branch pipe 423 and the third branch pipe 424 may be respectively provided with a switch valve 43 , and the opening and closing of the first branch pipe 422 , the second branch pipe 423 and the third branch pipe 424 can be controlled by opening and closing the corresponding switch valve 43 .

[0072] In addition, the washing machine further comprises a shell, in which the washing tub 20, the circulation pump 30 and the drain valve 10 are all arranged. A water supply and drainage pipe 70 is provided on the shell to extend to a second drain outlet outside.

[0073] The present application also provides a washing method, which is applied to the above-mentioned washing machine. The washing machine can execute different programs according to needs, such as washing program, draining program, etc., wherein the washing machine has multiple different washing programs for different laundry, such as a cycle washing program.

[0074] As shown in FIG5 , the washing method includes the following steps.

[0075] To perform a wash cycle:

[0076] S1. If washing water needs to be filtered, the washing water in the washing tub 20 is discharged into the first flow channel of the drain valve 10 through the first drain port.

[0077] In some embodiments, before S1, the step is further included: S0, determining whether the washing water needs to be filtered.

[0078] Optionally, a water quality detection mechanism is provided within the washing tub 20. When the water quality detection mechanism detects that the turbidity of the wash water within the washing tub 20 exceeds a threshold, the first drain outlet of the washing tub 20 opens, and the wash water flows out of the first drain outlet of the washing tub 20. Optionally, the water quality detection mechanism is a water quality detector. In some other embodiments, the wash water may also be filtered periodically. Specifically, during a cycle wash cycle, a timer of the washing machine measures the time the wash water remains within the washing tub 20. If the wash time exceeds a set value, the first drain outlet automatically opens. In one embodiment, a solenoid valve is provided at the first drain outlet that can be opened and closed.

[0079] S2. At least two filtering mechanisms filter the washing water multiple times.

[0080] When the filter mechanism is configured as a first filter mechanism 200 and a second filter mechanism 300, the multiple filtrations of the wash water by the at least two filter mechanisms in step S2 include: the first filter mechanism 200 performing coarse filtration of the wash water; and the second filter mechanism 300 performing fine filtration of the wash water. Specifically, the wash water entering the first flow channel is first coarsely filtered by the first filter mechanism 200 and then finely filtered by the second filter mechanism 300. After the wash water has been filtered multiple times by the two filter mechanisms, impurities in the wash water are filtered out, thereby improving the water quality of the wash water.

[0081] S3. The filtered washing water reaches the water replenishing port located at the top of the washing tub 20 through the circulation pump 30 and the circulation pipe 40, and enters the washing tub 20 again through the water replenishing port.

[0082] In some embodiments, if the defoaming operation and the self-cleaning operation of the washing tub 20 mentioned below are not required, the first branch pipe 422 of the circulation pipeline 40 is opened, the third branch pipe 424 and the second branch pipe 423 are both closed, and the filtered washing water enters the washing tub 20 through the first water supply port.

[0083] The washing machine uses this washing method to wash clothes, which improves the water quality of the washing water, not only improving the washing effect on the clothes, but also reducing damage to the circulation pump 30, which helps to increase the service life of the circulation pump 30.

[0084] After entering the washing tub 20, the washing liquid or washing powder generates foam upon contacting water. During the washing process, there may be excessive foam in the washing tub 20, which affects the washing efficiency and the washing effect. To eliminate the foam, as shown in FIG. 5 , the washing method further includes the following steps:

[0085] The washing tub 20 is judged to determine whether foam removal is required. If so, the high-pressure nozzle 50 is turned on, and the filtered wash water flows through the circulation pump 30 and the circulation pipe 40 to the water supply port located at the top of the washing tub 20, and is sprayed into the washing tub 20 through the high-pressure nozzle 50. The water supply port here is the second water supply port provided with the high-pressure nozzle 50.

[0086] In order to monitor the foam in the washing tub 20, in some embodiments, a monitoring mechanism is provided in the washing tub 20 to determine the amount of foam in the washing tub 20. Alternatively, the monitoring mechanism can be a camera, etc. A water quality detection mechanism can also be used to determine the amount of foam.

[0087] Furthermore, to activate the high-pressure nozzle 50, the second branch pipe 423 of the circulation line 40 is opened, and both the first branch pipe 422 and the third branch pipe 424 are closed. The filtered wash water then flows through the high-pressure nozzle 50 at the second water inlet and enters the washing tub 20. The high-pressure nozzle 50 sprays wash water at a high pressure, which facilitates defoaming. The structure of the high-pressure nozzle 50 is related art and will not be described in detail here.

[0088] For example, when executing the cyclic washing program, defoaming operations can also be performed at regular intervals. That is, in the cyclic washing program, if n cyclic washes are required, defoaming operations can be performed for each cyclic wash, or defoaming operations can be performed every several cyclic washes, that is, the second branch pipe 423 is opened at a preset frequency, and the first branch pipe 422 can be opened or closed at this time.

[0089] When executing the cycle washing program, the washing tub 20 may also be self-cleaned at the same time. In some embodiments, referring to FIG. 5 , the washing method further includes the following steps:

[0090] Determine whether self-cleaning of the washing tub 20 is required; if necessary, turn on the high-pressure rotary nozzle 60, and the filtered washing water reaches the water supply port at the top of the washing tub 20 through the circulation pump 30 and the circulation pipeline 40, and is sprayed into the washing tub 20 through the high-pressure rotary nozzle 60.

[0091] A monitoring mechanism can be used to determine whether the washing tub 20 needs to be self-cleaned, and the washing tub 20 can also be self-cleaned regularly. To activate the high-pressure rotary nozzle 60, the third branch pipe 424 of the circulation pipeline 40 is opened. At this time, the first branch pipe 422 can be closed or opened. The filtered wash water enters the washing tub 20 through the high-pressure rotary nozzle 60 at the third water supply port. The high-pressure rotary nozzle 60 sprays high-pressure wash water and is able to rotate, allowing the high-pressure wash water to be sprayed to various parts of the washing tub 20, thereby achieving self-cleaning of the washing tub 20. The structure of the high-pressure rotary nozzle 60 is related art and will not be described in detail here.

[0092] For example, during a cyclic wash cycle, the washing tub 20 may be self-cleaned periodically. Specifically, if n wash cycles are required during the cyclic wash cycle, the washing tub 20 may be self-cleaned for each wash cycle, or it may be self-cleaned every few wash cycles, i.e., the second branch pipe 423 and the third branch pipe 424 may be opened and closed at a preset frequency, with the first branch pipe 422 remaining closed during this process. Defoaming and self-cleaning of the washing tub 20 may also be performed periodically. Specifically, if n wash cycles are required during the cyclic wash cycle, the washing tub 20 may be self-cleaned or self-cleaned every several wash cycles, i.e., the first branch pipe 422, the second branch pipe 423, and the third branch pipe 424 may be opened and closed at a preset frequency. Alternatively, the first branch pipe 422, the second branch pipe 423, and the third branch pipe 424 may be opened and closed sequentially within a wash cycle.

[0093] Exemplarily, the washing method further comprises the following steps:

[0094] Obtain the amount of debris deposited on the filter mechanism;

[0095] Determine whether the amount of debris deposited on the filter mechanism is greater than a threshold;

[0096] If the amount of sediment is greater than a threshold, the user is reminded to disassemble the filter mechanism and clean the filter mechanism.

[0097] The valve body 100 of the washing machine's drain valve 10 is also equipped with a flow meter. This flow meter can measure the flow rate in the first flow channel and use this flow rate to determine whether there is an excessive amount of impurities on the filter mechanism. The washing machine also includes a warning alarm mechanism that issues a signal reminding the user to clean the filter mechanism. Optionally, the warning alarm mechanism can be a buzzer, a warning light, or the like.

[0098] Exemplarily, the washing method further comprises the following steps:

[0099] Obtaining the amount of undissolved detergent in the wash water;

[0100] determining whether the amount of undissolved detergent in the washing water exceeds a threshold;

[0101] If it exceeds, the driving member 230 of the first filtering mechanism 200 is started, so that the driving member 230 can drive the rotating adsorption member 220 to rotate forward to stir the washing water.

[0102] The amount of undissolved detergent in the wash water can be determined by a monitoring mechanism.

[0103] Exemplarily, the washing method further comprises the following steps:

[0104] Perform drainage procedures;

[0105] Close the first water outlet 108 of the drain valve 10 and open the second water outlet 109 of the drain valve 10;

[0106] The washing water in the washing tub 20 is discharged into the second flow channel of the drain valve 10 through the first drain port;

[0107] The driving member 230 of the first filter mechanism 200 is activated so that the driving member 230 can drive the rotating adsorption member 220 to rotate in the opposite direction, thereby realizing self-cleaning of the first filter mechanism 200. This can reduce the frequency of disassembling the first filter mechanism 200 and improve the user experience.

[0108] The washing machine also includes a control mechanism, which can be a centralized or distributed controller. For example, the controller can be a single single-chip microcomputer or a distributed plurality of single-chip microcomputers. The single-chip microcomputer can run a control program to control all electronic components involved in the washing machine to realize their functions respectively, thereby enabling the washing machine to perform the above-mentioned washing method.

[0109] The above embodiments of the present application are merely examples for illustrating the present application and are not intended to limit the implementation methods of the present application. Other variations or modifications may be made based on the above description. It is not necessary and impossible to enumerate all implementation methods here. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, and improvements made within the spirit and principles of the present application shall be included within the scope of protection of the claims of the present application.

Claims

1. A drain valve, comprising: A valve body (100), wherein a water inlet (107) and a first water outlet (108) are formed on the valve body (100), and a first flow channel is formed in the valve body (100) to communicate with the water inlet (107) and the first water outlet (108), and the first water outlet (108) is configured to communicate with a circulation pump (30); At least two filtering mechanisms are provided in the first flow channel at intervals along the water flow direction, and at least some of the filtering mechanisms have different filtering accuracies.

2. The drain valve according to claim 1, wherein: The filter mechanisms are provided with two, namely a first filter mechanism (200) and a second filter mechanism (300). The filtering accuracy of the first filter mechanism (200) is lower than the filtering accuracy of the second filter mechanism (300), and along the water flow direction in the first flow channel, the first filter mechanism (200) is provided upstream of the second filter mechanism (300).

3. The drain valve according to claim 1, wherein: At least part of the filtering mechanism is detachably connected to the valve body (100).

4. The drain valve according to claim 1, wherein: One of the filtering mechanisms is a first filtering mechanism (200), the first filtering mechanism (200) comprising a filter cartridge (210) and a rotating adsorption member (220), a mounting port being formed on the valve body (100), the filter cartridge (210) being inserted into the first flow channel through the mounting port, a plurality of water holes (211) being circumferentially arranged on the filter cartridge (210), and the rotating adsorption member (220) being rotatably connected to the filter cartridge (210).

5. The drain valve according to claim 4, wherein: The first filtering mechanism (200) further comprises a driving member (230), wherein the driving member (230) is in transmission connection with the rotating adsorption member (220) and is configured to drive the rotating adsorption member (220) to rotate.

6. The drain valve according to claim 4, wherein: The rotating adsorption member (220) comprises a rotating shaft (221) and a plurality of adsorption cap brushes (222); the rotating shaft (221) is arranged perpendicular to the direction of water flow in the first flow channel; and the plurality of adsorption cap brushes (222) are arranged at intervals along the axial direction of the rotating shaft (221).

7. The drain valve according to claim 1, wherein: One of the filtering mechanisms is a second filtering mechanism (300), and the second filtering mechanism (300) is a filter plate. The filter plate is arranged at the first water outlet (108), and a plurality of filtering holes (301) are formed on the filter plate.

8. The drain valve according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein: A second water outlet (109) that can be selectively opened and closed is formed on the valve body (100), and a second flow channel that connects the water inlet (107) and the second water outlet (109) is formed in the valve body (100), and the second water outlet (109) is configured to connect to a drain pipe (70).

9. A washing machine, comprising a washing tub (20), a circulation pump (30) and a drain valve (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein a first drain outlet (701) is formed at the bottom of the washing tub (20), a water replenishment port is formed at the top of the washing tub (20), a water inlet (107) of the drain valve (10) is connected to the first drain outlet (701), and the circulation pump (30) is connected between the first water outlet (108) of the drain valve (10) and the water replenishment port through a circulation pipeline (40).

10. The washing machine according to claim 9, wherein The washing machine further comprises at least one of the following: a high-pressure nozzle (50), the high-pressure nozzle (50) being connected to the first water supply port and configured to spray washing water into the washing tub (20); Alternatively, a high-pressure rotary nozzle (60) is rotatably connected to the second water supply port and is configured to spray washing water into the washing tub (20) with an adjustable spraying direction.

11. A washing method, applied to the washing machine according to claim 9 or 10, the method comprising: Execute the washing cycle program; Controlling the washing water in the washing tub (20) to be discharged into the first flow channel of the drain valve (10) through the first drain port (701); filtering the wash water multiple times through at least two filtering mechanisms; The filtered washing water reaches the water replenishing port located at the top of the washing tub (20) through the circulation pump (30) and the circulation pipeline (40), and enters the washing tub (20) again through the water replenishing port.

12. The method according to claim 11, further comprising: Determining whether to perform self-cleaning of the washing tub (20); In response to the self-cleaning of the washing tub (20), the high-pressure rotary nozzle (60) is turned on, and the filtered washing water reaches the water supply port located at the top of the washing tub (20) through the circulation pump (30) and the circulation pipeline (40), and is sprayed into the washing tub (20) through the high-pressure rotary nozzle (60).

13. The method according to claim 11, further comprising: Determining whether the foam in the washing tub (20) is eliminated; In response to the elimination of foam in the washing tub (20), the high-pressure nozzle (50) is turned on, and the filtered washing water reaches the water supply port located at the top of the washing tub (20) through the circulation pump (30) and the circulation pipeline (40), and is sprayed into the washing tub (20) through the high-pressure nozzle (50).

14. The method according to claim 11, further comprising: Obtaining the amount of debris deposited on the filtering mechanism; determining whether the amount of debris deposited on the filter mechanism is greater than a threshold; In response to the sediment amount being greater than the threshold, a user is reminded to disassemble the filter mechanism and clean the filter mechanism.

15. The method according to claim 11, further comprising: obtaining the amount of undissolved detergent in the wash water; determining whether the amount of undissolved detergent in the wash water exceeds a threshold; In response to the amount of the undissolved detergent exceeding the threshold, the driving member (230) of the first filtering mechanism (200) is activated, so that the driving member (230) can drive the rotating adsorption member (220) to rotate in a positive direction to stir the washing water.

16. The method according to claim 11, further comprising: Perform drainage procedures; closing the first water outlet (108) of the drain valve (10) and opening the second water outlet (109) of the drain valve (10); The washing water in the washing tub (20) is discharged into the second flow channel of the drain valve (10) through the first drain port (701); The driving member (230) of the first filter mechanism (200) is started, so that the driving member (230) can drive the rotating adsorption member (220) to rotate in the opposite direction, thereby achieving self-cleaning of the first filter mechanism (200).

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