Washing machine

Abstract

Disclosed is a washing machine. The washing machine comprises: a cabinet forming the outer appearance; a tub disposed inside the cabinet; a drum rotatably disposed inside the tub; and a detergent input module for accommodating a detergent and supplying the inside of the tub with washing water in which water and the detergent are mixed. The detergent input module includes: a detergent input unit that includes a detergent container for accommodating the detergent; and a detergent pump unit, which is coupled to the detergent input unit, for suctioning and discharging the detergent supplied from the detergent input unit. The detergent pump unit includes: a detergent detection sensor for sensing the amount of detergent accommodated in the detergent container; and a first sealing member for preventing the water and detergent accommodated in the detergent container from leaking around the detergent detection sensor while the detergent input unit is being mounted on or separated from the detergent pump unit. The first sealing member includes: a seating region for fixing to a region of the detergent pump unit; and a sealing region formed integrally with the seating region and surrounding the outer circumferential surface of the detergent detection sensor.

Description

washing machine

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a washing machine.

[0002] A washing machine is a device that rotates a drum containing laundry items by a device that provides power, such as a motor, so that the washing water flowing into the drum is mixed with the laundry, and the two objects are subjected to friction to wash stains and other items on the laundry items.

[0003] Wash water can refer to a solution of detergent and water, and water supplied from an external water source can be supplied to the detergent injection module so that wash water mixed with water and detergent can flow into the drum.

[0004] The detergent injection module may include a detergent injection unit that can be separated from the detergent pump unit for injecting detergent. However, in the process of the detergent injection unit being connected to and / or separated from the detergent pump unit, water and detergent contained in the detergent injection unit may leak out of the detergent injection module, which has become a problem.

[0005] According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, a washing machine may include a cabinet forming an exterior, a tub disposed inside the cabinet, a drum rotatably disposed inside the tub, and a detergent injection module for receiving detergent and supplying wash water mixed with the detergent into the tub.

[0006] The detergent injection module may include a detergent injection unit including a detergent container for receiving the detergent, and a detergent pump unit coupled to the detergent injection unit for sucking and discharging the detergent supplied from the detergent injection unit.

[0007] The detergent pump unit may include a detergent detection sensor for detecting the amount of detergent contained in the detergent box, and a first sealing member for preventing detergent and water contained in the detergent box from leaking around the detergent detection sensor during the process of attaching and detaching the detergent injection unit to and from the detergent pump unit.

[0008] The first sealing member may include a mounting area for being fixed to one area of ​​the detergent pump unit and a sealing area formed integrally with the mounting area and surrounding the outer circumferential surface of the detergent detection sensor.

[0009] The above detergent detection sensor and the above sealing area may each be provided as a pair.

[0010] The above-mentioned settling area can connect the above-mentioned pair of sealing areas.

[0011] The detergent box may include a housing forming the exterior of the detergent box and a detergent container having a shape corresponding to the housing and arranged inside the housing to accommodate the detergent.

[0012] The detergent injection unit may include a detergent container cover formed in a shape corresponding to the upper surface of the detergent container so as to cover the open upper surface of the detergent container.

[0013] The above detergent pump unit may include a front region that is introduced into the detergent injection unit when combined with the detergent injection unit, and a rear region in which a cylinder space is formed inside so as to suck in and discharge the detergent received in the detergent injection unit.

[0014] The detergent box may include a combination chamber formed by being recessed into the inside of the housing and having a shape corresponding to the front area.

[0015] The detergent box may further include a detergent valve that is closed when the detergent input unit is separated from the detergent pump unit to prevent the water and detergent contained in the detergent box from flowing out to the outside of the detergent box, and that is opened when the detergent input unit is combined with the detergent pump unit to allow the detergent contained in the detergent box to flow into the detergent pump unit.

[0016] The above detergent detection sensor may be provided in the front area.

[0017] The above front region may include a detergent suction tube for sucking the detergent contained in the detergent container.

[0018] The above-mentioned coupling chamber may include a sensor coupling hole having a diameter larger than that of the detergent detection sensor and positioned at a position corresponding to a position of the detergent detection sensor so that the detergent detection sensor is introduced into the detergent injection unit when the detergent injection unit is coupled to the detergent pump unit, and a suction pipe coupling hole having a diameter larger than that of the detergent suction pipe and positioned at a position corresponding to a position of the detergent suction pipe so that the detergent suction pipe is introduced into the detergent injection unit when the detergent injection unit is coupled to the detergent pump unit.

[0019] The diameter of the outer surface of the above sealing area may correspond to the diameter of the inner surface of the above sensor coupling hole.

[0020] In order to prevent detergent and water contained in the detergent box from leaking around the detergent suction pipe during the process of attaching and detaching the detergent injection unit to and from the detergent pump unit, a second sealing member may be further included to seal the space between the outer surface of the detergent suction pipe and the suction pipe joining hole.

[0021] The detergent suction tube may include a flow path region in which a flow path is formed through which the detergent sucked from the detergent container moves, and a joining region formed to have a diameter larger than the diameter of the flow path region.

[0022] The above-mentioned bonding area may include a detachment prevention rib formed by protruding and extending upwardly from the bonding area to secure the first sealing member to the detergent detection sensor.

[0023] The above-mentioned settling area may include a fixing groove formed by being recessed inward in a shape corresponding to the detachment prevention rib at a position corresponding to the detachment prevention rib.

[0024] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a washing machine according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0025] Figure 2 is a cross-sectional view of the washing machine of Figure 1.

[0026] FIG. 3 is an exploded perspective view of a detergent injection module according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0027] FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view showing a detergent injection unit and a detergent pump unit separated according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0028] FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view showing a detergent injection unit mounted on a detergent pump unit according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0029] FIG. 6 is an enlarged view of a combination chamber of a detergent box according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0030] FIG. 7 is an exploded view of a sealing member in a detergent pump unit according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0031] FIG. 8 is a drawing for explaining a cross-section of a first sealing member according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0032] FIG. 9 is a bottom view of a first sealing member according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0033] Fig. 10 is a cross-sectional view of the first sealing member coupled to the pump unit.

[0034]

[0035] It should be understood that the various embodiments and terms used in this document are not intended to limit the technical features described in this document to specific embodiments, but rather to include various modifications, equivalents, or substitutes of the embodiments.

[0036] In connection with the description of the drawings, similar reference numerals may be used for similar or related components.

[0037] The singular form of a noun corresponding to an item may include one or more of said items, unless the relevant context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0038] In this document, each of the phrases "A or B", "at least one of A and B", "at least one of A or B", "A, B, or C", "at least one of A, B, and C", and "at least one of A, B, or C" may include any one of the items listed together in that phrase, or all possible combinations thereof.

[0039] The term "and / or" includes any combination of a plurality of related described elements or any one of a plurality of related described elements.

[0040] Terms such as "first," "second," or "first" or "second" may be used simply to distinguish one component from another and do not qualify the components in any other respect (e.g., importance or order).

[0041] When a component (e.g., a first component) is referred to as being "coupled" or "connected" to another component (e.g., a second component), with or without the terms "functionally" or "communicatively," it means that the component can be connected to the other component directly (e.g., wired), wirelessly, or through a third component.

[0042] The terms "include" or "have" are intended to specify the presence of a feature, number, step, operation, component, part or combination thereof described in this document, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, numbers, steps, operations, components, parts or combinations thereof.

[0043] When a component is said to be “connected,” “coupled,” “supported,” or “in contact with” another component, this includes not only cases where the components are directly connected, coupled, supported, or in contact, but also cases where the components are indirectly connected, coupled, supported, or in contact through a third component.

[0044] When we say that a component is "on" another component, this includes not only cases where the component is in contact with the other component, but also cases where there is another component between the two components.

[0045] Below, washing machines according to various embodiments are specifically described with reference to the attached drawings.

[0046] Fig. 1 is a perspective view of a washing machine according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. Referring to Fig. 1, the washing machine (1) is a device for removing stains, odors, etc. contained in a laundry object by causing the laundry object to rub against laundry water containing detergent.

[0047] Washing machines (1) can be classified according to the method of loading laundry. There is a front-loading method in which laundry is loaded from the front of the washing machine (1) and a top-loading method in which laundry is loaded from the top of the washing machine (1). The washing machine (1) of the present invention will be described below assuming that it is a front-loading method.

[0048] The washing machine (1) may include a cabinet (10), a door (20), a drum (40), and a detergent dispensing module (100).

[0049] The cabinet (10) is a configuration for forming the exterior of the washing machine (1), and can be formed to have a hexahedral shape with an empty interior so that various components can be accommodated therein.

[0050] An opening (10a) can be formed on the front of the cabinet (10), and the opening (10a) can be opened and closed by a door (20).

[0051] The door (20) can be formed in a shape corresponding to the opening (10a) of the cabinet (10) and can be hinged to the cabinet (10) so as to be rotatable.

[0052] A door handle (21) may be provided on one side of the door (20), so that the user can open and close the opening (10a) by easily rotating the door (20) using the door handle (21).

[0053] The drum (40) is configured to accommodate laundry items. For this purpose, the drum (40) may be formed in a cylindrical shape with a hollow interior. A plurality of ribs (41, see FIG. 2) may be provided inside the drum (40). The plurality of ribs (41) may be formed to extend along the depth direction of the drum (40). The plurality of ribs (41) are configured to raise and drop laundry items accommodated inside the drum (40) when the drum (40) rotates. As a result, the laundry items are raised and dropped inside the drum (40), so that the washing water can be smoothly mixed into the laundry items.

[0054] A more detailed description of the drum (40) will be described later in Fig. 2.

[0055] The detergent injection module (100) is configured to mix water supplied from an external water source with detergent.

[0056] The detergent injection module (100) may include a detergent injection unit (200, see FIG. 3 and below) and a detergent pump unit (300, see FIG. 3 and below). A detailed description thereof will be provided later.

[0057] Fig. 2 is a cross-sectional view of the washing machine of Fig. 1. Referring to Fig. 2, the washing machine (1) may further include a tub (30), a driving unit (50), a water supply unit (60), and a drain unit (not shown).

[0058] The tub (30) is arranged inside the cabinet (10) and is configured to accommodate the drum (40). The tub (30) may have a shape corresponding to the drum (40).

[0059] In other words, the tub (30) may be formed to have a cylindrical shape having a diameter larger than that of the drum (40). The tub (30) may have an opening corresponding to the opening (10a) of the cabinet (10).

[0060] The tub (30) may be positioned so as to be spaced apart from the drum (40) at a constant interval. While the washing cycle is in progress, a certain amount of washing water may accumulate inside the tub (30). Since the drum (40) is provided with a plurality of washing holes (not shown), when the drum (40) is immersed in the washing water accumulated in the tub (30), the washing water may flow into the inside of the drum (40). The tub (30) may be formed as an integral body, but may also be formed by dividing it into a plurality of parts to accommodate the drum (40) therein and joining them in the process of accommodating the drum (40) therein.

[0061] The drum (40) may be rotatably positioned within the tub (30). The drum (40) may include an opening having a shape corresponding to the opening (10a) of the cabinet at a position corresponding thereto. A rotating shaft (not shown) may be coupled to the opposite side of the opening of the drum (40).

[0062] The rotating shaft is configured to be connected to a motor (51) on one side to transmit the rotational force generated from the motor (51) to the drum (40).

[0063] The motor (51) may be provided in single or multiple units, and is not limited to a specific number.

[0064] The driving unit (50) is configured to rotate the drum (40) and may include a motor (51) and a rotating shaft (52). The description of the motor (51) and the shaft is as described above.

[0065] The water supply unit (60) is configured to supply washing water used to wash the laundry object. The water supply unit (60) may include a water supply pipe (not shown) and a water supply valve (61).

[0066] The water supply pipe is configured to be connected to an external water source so that water can be supplied from the external water source to the washing machine (1). The water supply pipe may be positioned on the upper side of the tub (30). This is to enable the washing water passing through the detergent injection module (100) to be supplied to the tub (30) by gravity.

[0067] The water supply valve (61) is configured to control whether water is supplied from an external water source to the washing machine (1). The water supply valve (61) may be a check valve, but the type is not limited thereto.

[0068] The water supply pipe can connect an external water source and a detergent injection module (100). Water supplied to the washing machine (1) from the external water source can pass through the detergent injection module (100) and be supplied to the inside of the tub (30) as wash water mixed with detergent.

[0069] The drain unit is configured to discharge washing water from the tub (30) to the outside of the washing machine (1). The drain unit may include a drain pipe, a drain valve, and a drain pump.

[0070] A drain pipe may be placed at the bottom of the tub (30). The drain valve is configured to control the flow of water stored in the tub (30) into the drain pipe.

[0071] When the drain valve is opened, water stored in the tub (30) may flow into the drain pipe.

[0072] The drain pump is configured to discharge water stored in the tub (30) to the outside of the washing machine (1).

[0073] The damper (70) is configured to attenuate the vibration generated in the tub (30) as the drum (40) rotates from being transmitted to the cabinet (10). This prevents noise and vibration from occurring in the washing machine (1) due to the cabinet (10) shaking due to the vibration generated when the drum (40) rotates at high speed.

[0074] The washing machine (1) may include a washing water supply pipe (101) so that water supplied from an external water source to a detergent injection module (100) can be mixed with detergent and flow into the inside of the tub (30). One end of the washing water supply pipe (101) may be connected to the detergent injection module (100), and the other end may be connected to the upper side of the tub (30).

[0075] The detergent injection module (100) is configured to receive detergent and supply washing water mixed with water and detergent into the tub (30).

[0076] The detergent injection module (100) includes a detergent injection unit (200) and a detergent pump unit (300).

[0077] The detergent injection unit (200) can be detachably mounted on the detergent pump unit (300). The user can detach the detergent injection unit (200) from the detergent pump unit (300), inject detergent, and then remount it on the detergent pump unit (300).

[0078] The detergent injection module (100) includes a configuration capable of detecting the amount of detergent injected into the detergent injection unit (200), which will be described in detail later.

[0079] Fig. 3 is an exploded perspective view of a detergent injection module (100) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. Referring to Fig. 3, the detergent injection unit (200) and the detergent pump unit (300) can be separated.

[0080] The detergent input unit (200) is configured to deliver the received detergent to the detergent pump unit (300) and to deliver the detergent and water supplied by the detergent pump unit (300) to the tub (30).

[0081] The detergent dispenser (200) may include a detergent container cover (210) and a detergent container (220) coupled thereto.

[0082] The detergent box cover (210) is configured to supply water to the detergent box (220) and cover the upper open area of ​​the detergent box (220).

[0083] The detergent container cover (210) can be formed in a shape corresponding to the upper surface of the detergent container (222) so as to cover the open upper surface of the detergent container (222).

[0084] The detergent box cover (210) may include a water supply pipe connection hole (211) that is connected to a water supply pipe to receive an external water source, and a water supply path (212) for guiding water supplied from the water supply pipe to flow toward the detergent box (220).

[0085] The water supply pipe connection hole (211) may be formed on one side of the detergent box cover (210), and the water supply path (212) may be formed by extending in the opposite direction from the water supply pipe connection hole (211).

[0086] The water supply pipe connection hole (211) may further include a water supply pipe sealing member (not shown) to ensure a hermetically tight connection with the water supply pipe. The water supply pipe sealing member may be provided in the area where the water supply pipe and the water supply pipe connection hole (211) are joined.

[0087] The water supply path (212) can be formed in a shape in which the width gradually decreases in the opposite direction from the area on the side of the water supply pipe connection hole (211).

[0088] Due to this, the water pressure of the water supplied from the water supply pipe to the detergent inlet (200) through the water supply pipe connection hole (211) can be controlled. In other words, by controlling the water pressure of the water supplied from the water supply pipe, the flow rate can be adjusted so that the water guided by the water supply path (212) can be stably supplied to the detergent container (220).

[0089] The detergent container (220) can accommodate water and detergent. The detergent container (220) is configured to deliver detergent to the detergent pump unit (300), and to mix water supplied from the detergent container cover (210) with detergent discharged from the detergent pump unit (300) and supply it to the tub (30).

[0090] The detergent container (220) may include a front cover (221), a detergent container (222), a water supply opening (223), a housing (224), a combining chamber (225, see FIG. 4 below), and a detergent valve (226).

[0091] The upper surface of the detergent box (220) may have a shape corresponding to the detergent box cover (210) and may be an open area (220a) for supplying detergent and water.

[0092] The front cover (221) can be formed to cover an area of ​​the detergent compartment (220) on the front side of the washing machine (1) where the door (20) is placed.

[0093] The detergent container (222) is configured to accommodate detergent. The detergent container (222) may be formed so that its overall outer shape corresponds to that of the housing (224). In other words, the detergent container (222) may have a shape corresponding to that of the housing (224) and may be placed inside the housing (224).

[0094] The detergent container (222) is formed so that its outer surface is in contact with the inner surface of the housing (224) and can be accommodated inside the housing (224).

[0095] The detergent container (222) may be provided with multiple distinct areas to separately accommodate different types of detergent. For example, detergent may be placed in the first area (222a) of the detergent container (222), and fabric softener may be placed in the second area (222b).

[0096] A water supply opening (223) may be provided between the first region (222a) and the second region (222b) of the detergent container (222). The water supply opening (223) is configured to supply water from the detergent container cover (210). The water supplied from the detergent container cover (210) may flow into the internal space of the detergent container (220) that is distinct from the detergent container (222) through the water supply opening (223).

[0097] The water supply opening (223) can be formed to be open so as to have a cross-sectional area corresponding to the cross-sectional area of ​​the water supply path (212). Water supplied to the washing machine (1) from an external water source can fall to the lower side of the detergent compartment cover (210) through the water supply path (212).

[0098] Since the detergent box (220) is configured to be connected to the lower side of the detergent box cover (210), water falling toward the lower side of the detergent box cover (210) can flow into the internal space of the detergent box (220) through the water supply opening (223).

[0099] Water flowing into the internal space of the detergent box (220) can be mixed with detergent discharged from the detergent pump unit (300) and sucked into the detergent pump unit (300) through the detergent valve (226).

[0100] The housing (224) is configured to form the exterior of the detergent box (220). A combining chamber (225) may be formed on one side of the housing (224).

[0101] The combination chamber (225) is configured to allow the detergent pump unit (300) and the detergent box (220) to be combined.

[0102] The coupling chamber (225) may be formed to have a shape corresponding to one area of ​​the pump unit (300). Specifically, the coupling chamber (225) may be formed to have a shape corresponding to the front area (310) and to be recessed into the housing (224).

[0103] A detergent valve (226) may be provided on the inside of the housing (224) adjacent to the combination chamber (225).

[0104] The detergent valve (226) is closed when the detergent input unit (200) is separated from the detergent pump unit (300) to prevent water and detergent contained in the detergent box (220) from flowing out of the detergent box (220), and can be opened when the detergent input unit (200) is combined with the detergent pump unit (300) to allow water and detergent contained in the detergent box (220) to flow into the detergent pump unit (300).

[0105] The detergent valve (226) includes an elastic member (not shown) so that when the detergent container (220) is coupled with the detergent pump unit (300), the detergent valve (226) is elastically biased by the detergent pump unit (300) to open, thereby allowing detergent to flow from the detergent container (222) to the detergent pump unit (300).

[0106] Conversely, when the detergent container (220) is separated from the detergent pump unit (300), the detergent valve (226) is closed by the elastic member, thereby preventing the detergent contained in the detergent container (222) from leaking out of the detergent container (222).

[0107] The detergent valve (226) may be provided as a pair, but is not limited thereto, and may be provided in a number corresponding to the number of detergent suction pipes (311) of the pump unit (300).

[0108] The detergent pump unit (300) is configured to be combined with the detergent input unit (200) and to suck in and discharge detergent supplied from the detergent input unit (200).

[0109] The detergent pump unit (300) can suck in the detergent contained in the detergent container (220) and then supply it back to the detergent container (220). In other words, the detergent pump unit (300) can suck in the detergent contained in the detergent container (222) and then discharge the detergent into the internal space of the detergent container (220) that is distinct from the detergent container (222) to which water is supplied through the water supply opening (223).

[0110] The detergent pump section (300) includes a front region (310) and a rear region (320).

[0111] The front region (310) may include a detergent suction tube (311), a detergent detection sensor (312), a detergent discharge hole (313), a first sealing member (314), and a second sealing member (315).

[0112] The front area (310) can be introduced into the inside of the detergent injection unit (200) when combined with the detergent injection unit (200).

[0113] The rear region (320) can be formed with a cylinder space (321, see FIG. 4 and below) to implement internal pressure changes so that detergent received in the detergent inlet (200) can be sucked in and discharged.

[0114] The detergent suction tube (311) is configured to suck up the detergent contained in the detergent container (222). In other words, the detergent suction tube (311) is configured to suck up the detergent contained in the detergent container (220) and cause it to flow into the detergent pump unit (300).

[0115] The detergent suction tube (311) can be formed by protruding and extending from the front region (310) toward the detergent compartment (220).

[0116] A pair of detergent suction tubes (311) may be provided, and may be provided symmetrically with respect to the center of the front area (310).

[0117] The detergent detection sensor (312) is configured to detect the amount of detergent contained in the detergent box (220). The detergent detection sensors (312) may be provided in pairs on the upper side of the detergent suction pipe (311). The detergent detection sensors (312) may be provided symmetrically with respect to the center of the detergent suction pipe (311).

[0118] The detergent detection sensor (312) must be inserted into the detergent container (222) to come into contact with the detergent contained in the detergent container (222) and sense a specific value, so it can be formed by protruding and extending from the detergent pump unit (300) toward the detergent container (220).

[0119] However, the detergent detection sensor (312) may have a shorter protruding length than the detergent suction pipe (311).

[0120] Due to this, even when the detergent suction tube (311) comes into contact with the detergent valve (226) and pressurizes the detergent valve (226), the detergent detection sensor (312) can come into contact with the detergent contained in the detergent container (222) without coming into contact with the detergent valve (226). A further explanation of this will be given later in Fig. 5.

[0121] The detergent discharge hole (313) is configured to discharge detergent sucked through the detergent suction pipe (311) into the detergent box (220). The detergent discharge hole (313) may be arranged on the lower side of the detergent suction pipe (311).

[0122] The detergent pump unit (300) may include a path extending from the detergent suction pipe (311) to the detergent discharge hole (313).

[0123] The first sealing member (314) is configured to prevent detergent and water contained in the detergent container (220) from leaking around the detergent detection sensor (312) during the process of attaching and detaching the detergent injection unit (200) to and from the detergent pump unit (300).

[0124] The first sealing member (314) may be provided to surround the outer surface of the detergent detection sensor (312). In other words, the first sealing member (314) may be formed to have the shape of a pipe with an empty interior.

[0125] The diameter of the internal space of the first sealing member (314) may correspond to the diameter of the detergent detection sensor (312). A more detailed description of the first sealing member (314) will be described later.

[0126] The second sealing member (315) is configured to prevent detergent and water contained in the detergent container (220) from leaking around the detergent suction pipe (311) during the process of attaching and detaching the detergent injection unit (200) to and from the detergent pump unit (300).

[0127] The second sealing member (315) may be provided to surround the outer surface of the detergent suction tube (311). In other words, the second sealing member (315) may be formed to have a hollow tube shape, and the diameter of the internal space may correspond to the diameter of the detergent suction tube (311).

[0128] In this way, the first sealing member (314) and the second sealing member (315) seal the periphery of the detergent detection sensor (312) and the detergent suction pipe (311), thereby preventing detergent and water and / or washing water from leaking out of the detergent box (220) during the process of attaching or detaching the detergent box (220) to or from the detergent pump unit (300).

[0129] FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a detergent dispenser and a detergent pump unit separated from each other according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a detergent dispenser mounted on a detergent pump unit according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 6 is an enlarged view of a coupling chamber of a detergent container according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0130] Referring to FIG. 4, when the detergent injection unit (200) is separated from the detergent pump unit (300), the detergent valve (226) can be maintained in a state where the coupling hole (2251) is closed. Specifically, the detergent valve (226) can be maintained to close the sensor coupling hole (2251a) and the suction pipe coupling hole (2251b).

[0131] Referring to FIG. 6 together, the sensor coupling hole (2251a) may be a hole into which the detergent detection sensor (312) of the pump unit (300) is inserted, and the suction pipe coupling hole (2251b) may be a hole into which the detergent suction pipe (311) is inserted.

[0132] The sensor coupling hole (2251a) may have a diameter larger than that of the detergent detection sensor (312) and may be positioned at a position corresponding to the position of the detergent detection sensor (312) so that the detergent detection sensor (312) is introduced into the inside of the detergent injection unit (200) when the detergent injection unit (200) is coupled to the detergent pump unit (300).

[0133] The suction pipe coupling hole (2251b) may have a diameter larger than that of the detergent suction pipe (311) and may be positioned at a position corresponding to the position of the detergent suction pipe (311) so that the detergent suction pipe (311) is introduced into the inside of the detergent injection unit (200) when the detergent injection unit (200) is coupled to the detergent pump unit (300).

[0134] The detergent valve (226) includes an elastic member (2261), a valve member (2262), and a valve housing (2263).

[0135] The elastic member (2261) can provide elastic force to the valve member (2262). In other words, the detergent valve (226) can be opened and closed by the valve member (2262) being elastically biased by the elastic member (2261).

[0136] The valve housing (2263) is a configuration that forms the exterior of the detergent valve (226), and an elastic member (2261) and a valve member (2262) can be accommodated inside.

[0137] The valve member (2262) may be arranged to be surrounded by an elastic member (2261) on the inside of the valve housing (2263).

[0138] As shown, since the detergent injection part (200) does not come into contact with the pump part (300), an external force may not be applied to the elastic member (2261).

[0139] The valve sealing portion (2262b) of the valve member (2262) can hermetically close the sensor coupling hole (2251a) and the suction pipe coupling hole (2251b) by the elastic force of the elastic member (2261).

[0140] Due to this, it is possible to prevent detergent and / or water contained in the detergent container (222) from leaking out of the detergent container (220) through the joint hole (2251).

[0141] Additionally, in this case, the valve head (2262a) can be kept in a closed state with the inlet path (2264) on the detergent container (222) side closed.

[0142] Referring to FIG. 5, when the detergent injection unit (200) is mounted on the detergent pump unit (300), the detergent valve (226) can be maintained with the coupling hole (2251) open.

[0143] In the process of the detergent injection unit (200) being connected to the detergent pump unit (300), the detergent valve (226) can be opened by one end of the detergent suction pipe (311) in the front region (310).

[0144] Specifically, one end of the detergent suction pipe (311) on the detergent compartment (220) side can come into contact with the valve sealing portion (2262b) to pressurize the valve sealing portion (2262b) in the X direction. At this time, the elastic member (2261) can be contracted. The contracted elastic member (2261) can then close the detergent valve (226) by elastically biasing the valve member (2262) when the detergent injection portion (200) is separated from the detergent pump portion (300).

[0145] When the detergent valve (226) is open, the valve head (2262a) can be exposed to the outside of the inlet passage (2264).

[0146] Accordingly, the inflow path (2264) is opened so that the detergent contained in the detergent container (222) can flow into the inside of the detergent pump unit (300) through the inflow path (2264).

[0147] Meanwhile, when the detergent injection unit (200) is coupled to the detergent pump unit (300) as shown in FIG. 5 and is in a coupled state, the detergent suction pipe (311) and the detergent detection sensor (312) may be located inside the detergent valve (226).

[0148] At this time, since the outer surface of the detergent suction tube (311) and the detergent detection sensor (312) and the inner surface of the sensor coupling hole (2251a) and the suction tube coupling hole (2251b) are spaced apart, the detergent contained in the detergent container (222) may leak out of the detergent container (222) through the spaced apart space.

[0149] To prevent this, the first sealing member (314) and the second sealing member (315) may be provided to surround the outer surface of the detergent suction tube (311) and the detergent detection sensor (312).

[0150] The first sealing member (314) is configured to seal the space between the outer surface of the detergent detection sensor (312) and the sensor coupling hole (2251a) when the detergent injection unit (200) is coupled to the detergent pump unit (300).

[0151] The first sealing member (314) can be formed to have a volume corresponding to the space between the detergent detection sensor (312) and the sensor coupling hole (2251a).

[0152] The second sealing member (315) is configured to seal the space between the outer surface of the detergent suction pipe (311) and the suction pipe coupling hole (2251b) when the detergent injection unit (200) is connected to the detergent pump unit (300).

[0153] The second sealing member (315) can be formed to have a volume corresponding to the space between the detergent suction pipe (311) and the suction pipe coupling hole (2251b).

[0154] Accordingly, when the detergent valve (226) is opened by the detergent suction pipe (311) pressurizing the valve sealing portion (2262b) in the process of the detergent injection portion (200) being connected to the detergent pump portion (300), the detergent contained in the detergent container (222) can only flow into the inside of the detergent pump portion (300) through the detergent suction hole (3111).

[0155] Meanwhile, the detergent suction hole (3111) is configured to communicate the suction path (3112) inside the detergent suction pipe (311) with the outside. The detergent suction hole (3111) may be provided at the lower end of one end of the detergent suction pipe (311).

[0156] Due to this, when the detergent injection unit (200) is connected to the detergent pump unit (300), even if the detergent suction pipe (311) comes into contact with the detergent valve (226) and pressurizes the valve member (2262), the detergent can flow into the suction path (3112).

[0157] Detergent introduced into the suction path (3112) through the detergent suction hole (3111) can be moved to the cylinder space (321) inside the pump unit (300).

[0158] The cylinder space (321) is configured to suck up the detergent contained in the detergent container (222) and discharge the sucked detergent to the outside of the detergent pump unit (300). The cylinder space (321) may be provided on the inside of the rear region (320) of the detergent pump unit (300).

[0159] When the detergent injection unit (200) is connected to the detergent pump unit (300), the piston (322) moves upward, thereby forming a pressure lower than the internal space of the detergent container (222).

[0160] Due to this, the detergent contained in the detergent container (222) can flow into the cylinder space (321).

[0161] Afterwards, the pressure inside the cylinder space (321) can be relatively increased by moving the piston (322) downward.

[0162] Due to this, the detergent sucked into the cylinder space (321) can be discharged toward the detergent container (222) through the detergent discharge hole (313) along the discharge path (323).

[0163] Fig. 7 is an exploded view of a sealing member in a detergent pump unit according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. Referring to Fig. 7, the first sealing member (314) and the second sealing member (315) may be injection-molded as separate components from the detergent pump unit (300) and then connected to the detergent detection sensor (312) and the detergent suction pipe (311), respectively.

[0164] The first sealing member (314) may include a pair of sealing areas (3141) so that both can be coupled to a pair of detergent detection sensors (312).

[0165] The detergent detection sensor (312) may include a sensor case (3121) and a sensor electrode (3122). The sensor case (3121) is configured to surround the sensor electrode (3122) to protect the sensor electrode (3122).

[0166] The sensor case (3121) can be formed by protruding and extending from the front area (310) of the detergent pump unit (300).

[0167] The sensor case (3121) may cover only a portion of the sensor electrode (3122) so that the end of the sensor electrode (3122) is exposed.

[0168] The sealing area (3141) may be formed to surround the outer surface of the detergent detection sensor (312). Specifically, the sealing area (3141) may be formed to surround the outer surface of the sensor case (3121).

[0169] When the detergent detection sensors (312) are provided in pairs, the sealing areas (3141) can also be provided in pairs.

[0170] The sealing area (3141) has a length corresponding to the sensor case (3121) so that the end of the sensor electrode (3122) is exposed, so that the sensor electrode (3122) can come into contact with the detergent.

[0171] The diameter of the outer surface of the sealing area (3141) may correspond to the diameter of the inner surface of the sensor coupling hole (2251a).

[0172] Meanwhile, the first sealing member (314) may include a settling area (3142).

[0173] The settling area (3142) is configured to connect a pair of sealing areas (3141) to attenuate external force applied to the sealing area (3141) and prevent the first sealing member (314) from being separated from the initially coupled position.

[0174] For example, in the process of the detergent injection unit (200) being connected and disconnected from the detergent pump unit (300), friction may occur between the sealing area (3141) and the inner surface of the sensor coupling hole (2251a).

[0175] In this case, the sealing area (3141) may generate a bending moment by receiving an external force in a direction other than the external force in the longitudinal direction (X-axis direction) of the sealing area (3141).

[0176] Since the first sealing member (314) is generally formed of a soft material such as silicone, when an external force such as a bending moment is applied to the sealing area (3141), the sealing area (3141) may bend and take on a shape different from its original shape.

[0177] If the shape of the sealing area (3141) is distorted or changed into a shape other than its original shape and the process of combining and separating the detergent injection unit (200) from the detergent pump unit (300) is repeated, the sealing area (3141) may be torn or come off from the position where it surrounds the sensor case (3121).

[0178] In this case, since the sealing area (3141) cannot seal the space between the sensor coupling hole (2251a) and the detergent detection sensor (312), the detergent and / or water in the detergent container (222) may leak out of the detergent container (220) through the space.

[0179] However, since a pair of sealing regions (3141) are interconnected by a settling region (3142), the sealing regions (3141) can be prevented from being damaged or displaced as described above. In other words, the pair of sealing regions (3141) can be formed integrally with the settling region (3142).

[0180] FIG. 8 is a drawing for explaining a cross-section of a first sealing member according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. Referring to FIG. 8, the seating area (3142) may be formed to have a thickness (d2) that is thicker than the thickness (d1) of the sealing area (3141).

[0181] Referring again to FIG. 7, the settling region (3142) can be formed to have a width (r2) greater than the diameter (r1) of the outer surface of the sealing region (3141).

[0182] Accordingly, the settling area (3142) can maintain its original shape even under a bending moment caused by a greater external force than the sealing area (3141).

[0183] That is, the settling area (3142) can be made of a flexible material such as silicone, like the sealing area (3141). The material such as silicone is an elastic body that has elasticity so that it can be restored to its original shape even when a certain external force is applied.

[0184] However, elastic bodies generally have the property that their elasticity increases as their thickness increases.

[0185] Therefore, the settling region (3142) may have a greater stress against external force than the sealing region (3141).

[0186] In other words, even if an external force that could not be resisted by the elasticity of the sealing area (3141) itself is applied, the external force is distributed to the settling area (3142) connected to the sealing area (3141), so that the sealing area (3141) can have a stress corresponding to the external force, i.e., elasticity, and thus the sealing area (3141) can be prevented from being damaged.

[0187] Meanwhile, the settling area (3142) can come into contact with the inner surface of the coupling chamber (225) of the detergent container (220) when the detergent injection unit (200) is coupled to the pump unit (300).

[0188] Fig. 9 is a bottom view of a first sealing member according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. 10 is a cross-sectional view of the first sealing member coupled to a pump unit.

[0189] Referring to FIGS. 9 and 10, a fixing groove (3143) may be provided on the lower surface of the first sealing member (314).

[0190] The fixed home (3143) is configured to prevent the first sealing member (314) from moving out of its fixed position when connected to the detergent detection sensor (312).

[0191] Specifically, the fixed home (3143) can be provided on the lower surface of the settling area (3142).

[0192] The fixed groove (3143) can be formed by recessing an area of ​​the lower surface of the mounting area (3142) so as to have a shape corresponding to the detachment prevention rib (3113) provided in the detergent suction tube (311).

[0193] The detachment prevention rib (3113) may be formed to protrude and extend upward from the joining area (311b) to ensure that the first sealing member (314) is fixed to the detergent detection sensor (312).

[0194] By inserting a detachment prevention rib (3113) into the fixed groove (3143), the external force applied to the first sealing member (314) during the process of coupling and decoupling the detergent injection unit (200) from the detergent pump unit (300) can be distributed to the detergent suction pipe (311).

[0195] The length (w1) of the settling area (3142) may correspond to the protruding length (w2) of the joining area (311b) of the detergent suction tube (311).

[0196] The detachment prevention rib (3113) can be formed to protrude from the boundary area of ​​the joining area (311b) of the detergent suction tube (311) and the flow area (311a).

[0197] The flow path area (311a) is configured to form a flow path so that detergent and water sucked from the detergent container (222) can move. In other words, the flow path area (311a) is configured to form a flow path that connects the detergent container (222) and the detergent pump unit (300) so that detergent and water sucked from the detergent container (222) to the detergent pump unit (300) can move.

[0198] The bonding region (311b) can be formed to have a diameter larger than the diameter of the euro region (311a).

[0199] The euro area (311a) may refer to a front area adjacent to the detergent inlet (200) of the detergent suction pipe (311), and the joining area (311b) may refer to a rear area of ​​the detergent suction pipe (311) whose distance from the detergent inlet (200) is greater than the euro area (311a).

[0200] The fixed home (3143) can be formed by being recessed inward in a shape corresponding to the anti-separation rib (3113) at a position corresponding to the anti-separation rib (3113).

[0201] Specifically, the fixed groove (3143) can be formed by being recessed into the inside of the seating area (3142) corresponding to the protruding length of the anti-separation rib (3113).

[0202] The lower portion of the settling area (3142) may be sunken from the lower portion of the settling area (3142) toward the upper portion so as to have an arc shape having a diameter corresponding to the diameter of the rear portion (311b) of the detergent suction tube (311).

[0203] Due to this, the settling area (3142) can be stably coupled between a pair of detergent detection sensors (312) and a detergent suction tube (311).

[0204] The anti-separation rib (3113) may be provided on the same axis as the center of the settling area (3142). In other words, the center of the anti-separation rib (3113) may be provided on the same axis as the axis of symmetry of the pair of sealing areas (3141).

[0205] As described above, the specific shape of the first sealing member (314) can be determined depending on the number, shape, and arrangement positions of the detergent suction pipes (311) and the detergent detection sensors (312), and therefore, the shape of the first sealing member (314) is not necessarily limited to the above-described one. In other words, the specific shape and structure of the first sealing member (314) can be changed accordingly as the number, shape, and structure of the detergent suction pipes (311) and the detergent detection sensors (312) change.

[0206] For example, if the detergent detection sensor (312) is single, the sealing area (3141) of the first sealing member (314) can also be formed single.

[0207] Although various embodiments of the present disclosure have been individually described above, each embodiment does not necessarily have to be implemented alone, and the configuration and operation of each embodiment may be implemented in combination with at least one other embodiment.

[0208] In addition, although the preferred embodiments of the present disclosure have been illustrated and described above, the present disclosure is not limited to the specific embodiments described above, and various modifications may be made by a person having ordinary skill in the art to which the present invention pertains without departing from the gist of the present disclosure as claimed in the claims, and such modifications should not be understood individually from the technical idea or prospect of the present disclosure.

Claims

1. Cabinet forming the exterior; A tub placed inside the above cabinet; a drum rotatably arranged inside the above tub; and A detergent injection module for receiving detergent and supplying washing water mixed with the detergent into the tub; The above detergent injection module is, A detergent dispenser including a detergent container for receiving the detergent; and It includes a detergent pump unit coupled to the detergent input unit and for sucking and discharging the detergent supplied from the detergent input unit; The above detergent pump part, A detergent detection sensor for detecting the amount of detergent contained in the detergent box; and It includes a first sealing member for preventing detergent and water contained in the detergent box from leaking around the detergent detection sensor during the process in which the detergent injection unit is mounted and separated from the detergent pump unit; The above first sealing member, a mounting area for fixing to one area of ​​the above detergent pump section; and A washing machine, comprising a sealing area formed integrally with the above-mentioned settling area and surrounding the outer circumference of the detergent detection sensor.

2. In paragraph 1, The above detergent detection sensor and the above sealing area are each provided as a pair, The above-mentioned settling area is a washing machine that connects the pair of sealing areas.

3. In paragraph 1, The above detergent box, A housing forming the exterior of the detergent box; and A washing machine, comprising a detergent container having a shape corresponding to the housing and arranged inside the housing to accommodate the detergent.

4. In paragraph 3, The above detergent dispenser is, A washing machine comprising a detergent container cover formed in a shape corresponding to the upper surface of the detergent container so as to cover the open upper surface of the detergent container.

5. In paragraph 4, The above detergent pump part, A front region that is introduced into the inside of the detergent inlet when combined with the detergent inlet; and A rear region having a cylindrical space formed therein so as to suck in and discharge the detergent received in the detergent inlet; The above detergent box, A washing machine, comprising a combining chamber formed by being sunken into the inside of the housing and having a shape corresponding to the front area.

6. In paragraph 5, The above detergent box, A washing machine further comprising a detergent valve that is closed when the detergent input unit is separated from the detergent pump unit to prevent the water and detergent contained in the detergent box from flowing out to the outside of the detergent box, and that is opened when the detergent input unit is combined with the detergent pump unit to allow the detergent contained in the detergent box to flow into the detergent pump unit.

7. In paragraph 6, The above detergent detection sensor is provided in the front area, The above front area is, A detergent suction tube for sucking the detergent contained in the detergent container is included; The above combination chamber is, When the detergent injection unit is coupled to the detergent pump unit, a sensor coupling hole having a diameter larger than the diameter of the detergent injection unit and positioned at a position corresponding to the position of the detergent injection unit so that the detergent injection unit can be introduced into the detergent injection unit; and A washing machine comprising a suction pipe coupling hole having a diameter larger than the diameter of the detergent suction pipe and positioned at a position corresponding to the position of the detergent suction pipe so that the detergent suction pipe is introduced into the inside of the detergent injection portion when the detergent injection portion is coupled to the detergent pump portion.

8. In paragraph 7, A washing machine in which the diameter of the outer surface of the above sealing area corresponds to the diameter of the inner surface of the above sensor coupling hole.

9. In paragraph 7, A washing machine further comprising a second sealing member for sealing a space between the outer surface of the detergent suction pipe and the suction pipe joining hole to prevent detergent and water contained in the detergent box from leaking around the detergent suction pipe during the process of attaching and detaching the detergent injection unit to and from the detergent pump unit.

10. In paragraph 9, The above detergent suction tube, A flow path area in which a flow path is formed through which the detergent sucked from the detergent container moves; and Including a bonding region formed to have a diameter larger than the diameter of the above euro region, A washing machine, wherein the above-mentioned bonding area includes a detachment prevention rib formed by protruding and extending upward from the bonding area to fix the first sealing member to the detergent detection sensor.

11. In paragraph 9, The above settling area is, A washing machine including a fixing groove formed by being sunken inward in a shape corresponding to the detachment prevention rib at a position corresponding to the detachment prevention rib.

Images