Dispensing device and washing appliance

Abstract

Disclosed in the present application are a dispensing device and a washing appliance. The dispensing device comprises a first actuating mechanism, a second actuating mechanism, a third actuating mechanism and a driving mechanism, wherein the first actuating mechanism is adapted to control the dispensing of a first detergent, the second actuating mechanism is adapted to control the dispensing of a second detergent, and the third actuating mechanism is adapted to control the dispensing of a third detergent; the driving mechanism is adapted to drive the first actuating mechanism, the second actuating mechanism and the third actuating mechanism to move; when the driving mechanism drives the first actuating mechanism to move, the first actuating mechanism controls the dispensing of the first detergent; when the driving mechanism drives the second actuating mechanism to move, the second actuating mechanism controls the dispensing of the second detergent; and when the driving mechanism drives the third actuating mechanism to move, the third actuating mechanism controls the dispensing of the third detergent. By means of the same driving mechanism, the dispensing of multiple types of detergents can be controlled, thereby greatly reducing the number of dispensing devices, helping lower the cost of the dispensing device, and reducing the volume of the dispensing device.

Description

Dispensing devices and washing appliances

[0001] Cross-references to related applications

[0002] This application claims priority to the following Chinese patent applications filed on October 14, 2024: application number 202411433441.0, entitled "Dispensing Device and Washing Appliance"; application number 202411433447.8, entitled "Dispensing Device and Washing Appliance"; and application number 202411433453.3, entitled "Dispensing Device and Washing Appliance", the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] This application relates to the field of washing appliance technology, and in particular to a dispensing device and a washing appliance. Background Technology

[0004] Washing appliances need to automatically dispense detergent during the washing process, so these appliances are equipped with a dispensing device. The dispensing device can be set with two or more types of detergent, which are dispensed in sequence according to different washing conditions. However, the current dispensing device has a drive mechanism for each type of detergent, which takes up a lot of space and is costly. How to simplify the structure of the dispensing device has become one of the urgent problems to be solved.

[0005] Application content

[0006] This application aims to at least partially solve one of the technical problems in the related art. To this end, this application proposes a dispensing device.

[0007] To achieve the above objectives, this application discloses a dispensing device, the dispensing device comprising:

[0008] The first actuator is suitable for controlling the dispensing of the first detergent;

[0009] The second actuator is suitable for controlling the dispensing of the second detergent;

[0010] A third actuator, suitable for controlling the dispensing of a third detergent; and

[0011] A drive mechanism is adapted to drive the first actuator, the second actuator, and the third actuator to move. When the drive mechanism drives the first actuator to move, the first actuator controls the dispensing of a first detergent. When the drive mechanism drives the second actuator to move, the second actuator controls the dispensing of a second detergent. When the drive mechanism drives the third actuator to move, the third actuator controls the dispensing of a third detergent.

[0012] In some embodiments of this application, the driving mechanism includes a power source and a connecting component. The power source is adapted to move along a first direction. When the power source moves along the first direction, the power source is adapted to drive the connecting component to move so that the connecting component drives the first actuator to move.

[0013] In some embodiments of this application, the power source is further adapted to move along a second direction, which is opposite to the first direction. When the power source moves along the second direction, the power source is adapted to drive the connecting component to move so that the connecting component drives the second actuator and the third actuator to move.

[0014] In some embodiments of this application, the connection component includes an input element, an intermediate element, a first output element, and a second output element;

[0015] The power source is connected to the input component, and the input component is connected to the intermediate component. The intermediate component is adapted to move to a first position and drive the first output component to move when the power source moves along the first direction, so that the first output component drives the first actuator to move. The intermediate component is adapted to move to a second position and drive the second output component to move when the power source moves along the second direction, so that the second output component drives the second actuator and the third actuator to move.

[0016] In some embodiments of this application, the first position and the second position are the extreme positions of the reciprocating movement of the intermediate component.

[0017] In some embodiments of this application, the connecting component includes an input gear, an intermediate gear, a first output gear, and a second output gear;

[0018] The power source and the input gear are connected to drive the input gear to rotate. The rotation direction of the input gear when the power source moves in the first direction is opposite to the rotation direction when the power source moves in the second direction.

[0019] The input gear meshes with the intermediate gear; the intermediate gear is adapted to move to a first position and mesh with the first output gear when the power source moves along the first direction, so as to drive the first output gear to rotate, thereby driving the first actuator to move; the intermediate gear is adapted to move to a second position and mesh with the second output gear when the power source moves along the second direction, so as to drive the second output gear to rotate, thereby driving the second actuator and the third actuator to move.

[0020] In some embodiments of this application, the first position and the second position are the limit positions of the reciprocating movement of the intermediate gear.

[0021] In some embodiments of this application, the power source is a stepper motor.

[0022] In some embodiments of this application, the first actuator includes a pump body, and the drive mechanism is adapted to drive the pump body to move, so that the pump body draws in and discharges the first detergent.

[0023] In some embodiments of this application, the drive mechanism includes a first output gear, and the drive mechanism is adapted to drive the shaft of the pump body to rotate through the first output gear.

[0024] In some embodiments of this application, the first output gear and the pump body's shaft are coaxially arranged.

[0025] In some embodiments of this application, the drive mechanism is adapted to drive the second actuator to unlock the cover of the dispensing device and open the dispensing port of the dispensing device so that the second detergent can be dispensed from the dispensing port.

[0026] In some embodiments of this application, the second actuator includes a rotating shaft and a pawl disposed on the rotating shaft. The drive mechanism is adapted to be connected to the rotating shaft to drive the rotating shaft to rotate, and the pawl is adapted to rotate when the rotating shaft rotates to unlock the cover.

[0027] In some embodiments of this application, the chuck is sleeved on the rotating shaft.

[0028] In some embodiments of this application, the peripheral wall of the rotating shaft is provided with a locking protrusion, and the locking claw is provided with a notch. The locking protrusion is adapted to engage with the notch so that the rotating shaft can drive the locking claw to rotate.

[0029] In some embodiments of this application, the pawl is adapted to reciprocate along the rotation axis at a third position and a fourth position;

[0030] The drive mechanism is adapted to drive the rotating shaft to rotate when the pawl is in the third position, and the pawl is adapted to switch from the third position to the fourth position after unlocking the cover.

[0031] In some embodiments, at the third position, the protrusion engages with the notch; at the fourth position, the protrusion and the notch separate so that the claw and the rotating shaft can rotate relative to each other.

[0032] In some embodiments of this application, the dispensing device further includes a first elastic element adapted to exert force on the claw to drive the claw to switch from the third position to the fourth position after the claw unlocks the cover.

[0033] In some embodiments of this application, when the cover switches from the state of opening the dispensing port to the state of closing the dispensing port, it drives the claw to switch from the fourth position to the third position.

[0034] In some embodiments of this application, the drive mechanism includes a second output gear, and the drive mechanism is adapted to drive the rotating shaft to rotate via the second output gear.

[0035] In some embodiments of this application, the second output gear is sleeved on the rotating shaft and is adapted to drive the rotating shaft to rotate when rotating.

[0036] In some embodiments of this application, the third actuator is located between the second output gear and the chuck.

[0037] In some embodiments of this application, the drive mechanism is adapted to drive the third actuator to move so that the third actuator disengages from the communication port of the dispensing device and causes the third detergent to flow out from the communication port.

[0038] In some embodiments of this application, the third actuator is provided with a rack portion, and the drive mechanism is adapted to mesh with the rack portion to drive the third actuator to move.

[0039] In some embodiments of this application, the drive mechanism includes a second output gear, and the drive mechanism is adapted to drive the rack portion to move via the second output gear.

[0040] In some embodiments of this application, the second output gear is provided with a toothed portion, and the second output gear is adapted to drive the third actuator to move by meshing the toothed portion and the rack portion when rotating.

[0041] In some embodiments of this application, the toothed portion is adapted to separate from the rack portion after the third actuator disengages from the communication port.

[0042] In some embodiments of this application, the dispensing device further includes a third elastic element adapted to generate force on the third actuator to drive the third actuator toward the communication port after the toothed portion and the rack portion separate, thereby blocking the communication port.

[0043] In some embodiments of this application, the third actuator includes a flexible sealing plug, the third actuator being adapted to disengage from and block the communication port via the sealing plug.

[0044] In some embodiments of this application, the first detergent is a liquid detergent.

[0045] In some embodiments of this application, the second detergent is a solid detergent.

[0046] In some embodiments of this application, the third detergent is a rinse aid.

[0047] The second aspect of this application discloses a washing appliance, which includes the aforementioned dispensing device.

[0048] The technical solution of this application sets up a drive mechanism, which is configured to drive the first, second and third actuators. In this way, the dispensing of multiple types of detergents can be controlled by the same set of drive mechanisms. Compared with the dispensing devices in related technologies, the number of dispensing devices is greatly reduced, which helps to reduce the cost and size of the dispensing devices.

[0049] Other advantages of this application will be set forth in part in the description which follows, and in part will be obvious from the description or may be learned by practice of this application. Attached Figure Description

[0050] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this application or the prior art, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of this application. For those skilled in the art, other designs can be obtained based on the structures shown in these drawings without creative effort.

[0051] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of the dispensing device in some embodiments;

[0052] Figure 2 is a partial structural diagram of the dispensing device in some embodiments (arrows in the figure indicate the dispensing of the corresponding detergent);

[0053] Figure 3 is a schematic diagram of the dispensing device in some embodiments (viewpoint different from Figure 1);

[0054] Figure 4 is a schematic diagram of the drive mechanism in some embodiments;

[0055] Figure 5 is a schematic diagram of the connection mechanism in some embodiments (the power source moves along the first direction, and the intermediate part / intermediate gear is in the first position);

[0056] Figure 6 is a schematic diagram of the connection mechanism in some embodiments (the power source moves along the second direction, and the intermediate part / intermediate gear is in the second position);

[0057] Figure 7 is a schematic diagram of the power source and input element / input gear engagement in some embodiments;

[0058] Figure 8 is a schematic diagram of the cooperation between the first output element / first output gear and the first actuator in some embodiments;

[0059] Figure 9 is a schematic diagram of the cooperation between the second output component / second output gear and the second and third actuators in some embodiments;

[0060] Figure 10 is an exploded view of the structure shown in Figure 9;

[0061] Figure 11 is a schematic diagram of the cooperation between the second output component / second output gear and the second actuator and the cover in some embodiments (the cover is in a locked state);

[0062] Figure 12 is an enlarged view of the image marked A in Figure 11;

[0063] Figure 13 is a schematic diagram of the unlocked cover structure shown in Figure 11;

[0064] Figure 14 is a schematic diagram of the claw being in the fourth position in some embodiments;

[0065] Figure 15 is a schematic diagram of the claw being in the third position in some embodiments;

[0066] Figure 16 is a schematic diagram of the chuck in some embodiments;

[0067] Figure 17 is a schematic diagram of the cooperation between the second output element / second output gear and the third actuator and the communication port in some embodiments (the third actuator is disengaged from the communication port);

[0068] Figure 18 is an exploded view of the cooperation between the second output element / second output gear and the third actuator in some embodiments.

[0069] Reference numerals: First actuator 1000, pump body 1100, Second actuator 2000, rotating shaft 2100, locking protrusion 2110, locking claw 2200, notch 2210, locking part 2220, Third actuator 3000, skeleton part 3100, support rod 3110, transmission rod 3120, rack part 3121, sealing plug 3200, drive mechanism 4000, power source 4001, connecting assembly 4002, input part / input gear 4100, middle Intermediate component / intermediate gear 4200, first output component / first output gear 4300, second output component / second output gear 4400, gear tooth portion 4410, shifting tooth portion 4420, first elastic component 5100, second elastic component 5200, third elastic component 5300, first cavity 6100, second cavity 6200, feeding port 6210, third cavity 6300, connecting port 6310, cover 7100, abutting portion 7110, protrusion 7120.

[0070] The realization of the purpose, functional features and advantages of this application will be further explained in conjunction with the embodiments and with reference to the accompanying drawings. Detailed Implementation

[0071] The technical solutions of the embodiments of this application will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only a part of the embodiments of this application, and not all of the embodiments. Based on the embodiments of this application, all other embodiments obtained by those of ordinary skill in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this application.

[0072] It should be noted that all directional indicators (such as up, down, left, right, front, back, etc.) in the embodiments of this application are only used to explain the relative positional relationship and movement of each component in a certain specific posture (as shown in the figure). If the specific posture changes, the directional indicator will also change accordingly.

[0073] In this application, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, the terms "connection," "fixed," etc., should be interpreted broadly. For example, "fixed" can mean a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral part; it can mean a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; it can mean a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; it can mean the internal communication of two components or the interaction between two components, unless otherwise expressly limited. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this application according to the specific circumstances.

[0074] Furthermore, the use of terms such as "first" and "second" in this application is for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying their relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of technical features indicated. Therefore, a feature defined as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include at least one of those features. Additionally, the technical solutions of the various embodiments can be combined with each other, but only on the basis of being achievable by those skilled in the art. If the combination of technical solutions is contradictory or impossible to implement, such a combination of technical solutions should be considered non-existent and not within the scope of protection claimed in this application.

[0075] The first aspect of this application discloses a dispensing device. As shown in Figures 1, 2 and 3, in some embodiments, the dispensing device includes a first actuator 1000, a second actuator 2000, a third actuator 3000 and a drive mechanism 4000. The first actuator 1000 is used to control the dispensing of a first detergent, the second actuator 2000 is used to control the dispensing of a second detergent, and the third actuator 3000 is used to control the dispensing of a third detergent. The dispensing device has three locations for storing a first detergent, a second detergent, and a third detergent, respectively: a first cavity 6100 for storing the first detergent, a second cavity 6200 for storing the second detergent, and a third cavity 6300 for storing the third detergent. The first actuator 1000 controls the dispensing of the first detergent, meaning that under the action of the first actuator 1000, the first detergent can be removed from the location storing the first detergent (first cavity 6100) and directly or indirectly dispensed into the washing cavity. The second actuator 2000 controls the dispensing of the second detergent, meaning that under the action of the second actuator 2000, the second detergent can be removed from the location storing the second detergent (second cavity 6200) and directly or indirectly dispensed into the washing cavity. The third actuator 3000 controls the dispensing of the third detergent, meaning that under the action of the third actuator 3000, the third detergent can be removed from the location storing the detergent (third cavity 6300) and directly or indirectly dispensed into the washing cavity.

[0076] The first detergent is one type of detergent, designed primarily for cleaning and stain removal. The second detergent is another type of detergent, designed primarily for cleaning and stain removal. The third detergent is another type of detergent, designed to assist in cleaning and stain removal, such as accelerating drying, increasing shine, antibacterial properties, and deodorizing. It is understood that the first, second, and third detergents are not limited to the examples mentioned above and can be other types. Taking the application of the dispensing device to a washing appliance as an example, the first detergent can be a liquid detergent, such as dish soap; the second detergent can be a solid detergent, such as dishwashing powder or tablets; and the third detergent can be a liquid detergent, such as rinse aid or deodorizer.

[0077] The activities of the first actuator 1000, the second actuator 2000, and the third actuator 3000 are realized through the drive mechanism 4000. The drive mechanism 4000 is a component that can output power. Through the configuration of the drive mechanism 4000, it is suitable for driving the activities of the first actuator 1000, the second actuator 2000, and the third actuator 3000. It can be understood that the drive mechanism 4000 is suitable for driving the activities of the first actuator 1000, the second actuator 2000, and the third actuator 3000, meaning that when the first detergent needs to be added, the drive mechanism 4000 can drive the first actuator 1000; when the second detergent needs to be added, the drive mechanism 4000 can drive the second actuator 2000; and when the third detergent needs to be added, the drive mechanism 4000 can drive the third actuator 3000. When the drive mechanism 4000 drives the first actuator 1000, the first actuator 1000 actuates to control the dispensing of the first detergent. When the drive mechanism 4000 drives the second actuator 2000, the second actuator 2000 actuates to control the dispensing of the second detergent. When the drive mechanism 4000 drives the third actuator 3000, the third actuator 3000 actuates to control the dispensing of the third detergent. It is understood that the movements of the first actuator 1000, the second actuator 2000, and the third actuator 3000, driven by the drive mechanism 4000, can take various forms, including but not limited to rotation, oscillation, translation, curvilinear motion, linear reciprocating motion, or combined motion (such as rotation followed by translation), and the movements of other components are similar.

[0078] Taking the application of a dispensing device in a washing appliance as an example, which includes, but is not limited to, dishwashers, we will use dishwashers as an example for detailed explanation. It can be that: a drive mechanism 4000 drives the first actuator 1000 and the third actuator 3000 to move; the drive mechanism 4000 drives the first actuator 1000 to move, causing the first actuator 1000 to control the dispensing of the first detergent, thereby achieving the cleaning of dishes; the drive mechanism 4000 drives the third actuator 3000 to move, causing the third actuator 3000 to control the dispensing of the third detergent, thereby improving the drying effect of the dishes and increasing their shine. Alternatively, the drive mechanism 4000 can drive the second actuator 2000 and the third actuator 3000 to move. The drive mechanism 4000 can drive the second actuator 2000 to move, so that the second actuator 2000 controls the dispensing of the second detergent, thereby achieving the cleaning of the dishes. The drive mechanism 4000 can drive the third actuator 3000 to move, so that the third actuator 3000 controls the dispensing of the third detergent, thereby improving the drying effect of the dishes and increasing the gloss of the dishes.

[0079] Therefore, this embodiment sets up a drive mechanism 4000, which is configured to drive the first actuator 1000, the second actuator 2000 and the third actuator 3000. In this way, the dispensing of various types of detergents can be controlled by the same set of drive mechanisms 4000. Compared with the dispensing devices in related technologies, the number of dispensing devices is greatly reduced, which helps to reduce the cost and size of the dispensing devices.

[0080] Referring to Figures 4 to 7, in some embodiments, the drive mechanism 4000 includes a power source 4001 and a connecting component 4002. The power source 4001 and the connecting component 4002 cooperate to achieve output, and the connecting component 4002 plays a transmission role between the power source 4001 and the actuators (first actuator 1000, second actuator 2000, and third actuator 3000). The power source 4001 is adapted to move along a first direction and a second direction, which are opposite to each other; that is, the power source 4001 can move along either the first direction or the second direction. When the power source 4001 moves along the first direction, it drives the connecting component 4002 to move. The movement of the connecting component 4002, in turn, drives the first actuator 1000 to move, and the movement of the first actuator 1000 controls the dispensing of the first detergent. When the power source 4001 moves along the second direction, the power source 4001 is adapted to drive the connecting component 4002 to move. The movement of the connecting component 4002 drives the second actuator 2000 and the third actuator 3000 to move. The movement of the second actuator 2000 can control the dispensing of the second detergent, and the movement of the third actuator 3000 can control the dispensing of the third detergent.

[0081] In this embodiment, the movement of the power source 4001 along the first direction and along the second direction can drive the connecting component 4002 to produce different actions. That is, the action produced by the connecting component 4002 when the power source 4001 moves along the first direction is different from the action produced when the power source 4001 moves along the second direction. This enables the driving of the corresponding first actuator 1000, second actuator 2000, and third actuator 3000. The same power source 4001 can achieve selective delivery by the delivery device, which helps to reduce the structural complexity of the drive mechanism 4000. It is understood that the movement of the power source 4001 along the first direction and along the second direction can be rotation, translation, etc.

[0082] For example, as shown in the attached diagram, a power source 4001 and a dispensing device store a first detergent and a third detergent, but no second detergent. When the first and third detergents are selected for dispensing, the power source 4001 moves along a first direction, thereby driving the connecting component 4002 to move. This causes the connecting component 4002 to drive the first actuator 1000 to move, thus dispensing the first detergent. The power source 4001 then moves along a second direction, driving the connecting component 4002 to move. This causes the connecting component 4002 to drive the second actuator 2000 and the third actuator 3000 to move. Since the dispensing device does not store the second detergent, although the second actuator 2000 is active, no second detergent is dispensed. However, the third actuator 3000 dispenses the third detergent.

[0083] For example, a power source 4001 is shown. The dispensing device stores a second detergent and a third detergent, and may or may not store a first detergent. When the second detergent and the third detergent are selected to be dispensed, the power source 4001 moves along a second direction, thereby driving the connecting component 4002 to move. The connecting component 4002 drives the second actuator 2000 and the third actuator 3000 to move. The second actuator 2000 dispenses the second detergent, and the third actuator 3000 dispenses the third detergent.

[0084] To accommodate the different actions produced by the power source 4001 when it moves along the first direction and the second direction, continuing with Figures 4 to 7, in some embodiments, the connecting component 4002 includes an input component 4100, an intermediate component 4200, a first output component 4300, and a second output component 4400. The power source 4001 is connected to the input component 4100, and the power source 4001 can drive the input component 4100 to move. Since the power source 4001 can move along the first direction and the second direction, the action produced by the input component 4100 when the power source 4001 moves along the first direction is different from the action produced when the power source 4001 moves along the second direction. The input component 4100 is connected to the intermediate component 4200, and the input component 4100 can drive the intermediate component 4200 to move. The different actions produced by the input component 4100 when the power source 4001 moves in opposite directions also cause the intermediate component 4200 to produce different actions, thereby correspondingly driving the first output component 4300 and the second output component 4400.

[0085] Specifically, when the power source 4001 moves along the first direction, the power source 4001 drives the input component 4100 to move, the input component 4100 drives the intermediate component 4200 to move, and at the same time, the input component 4100 drives the intermediate component 4200 to move to the first position, so that the intermediate component 4200 cooperates with the first output component 4300 and drives the first output component 4300 to move. The movement of the first output component 4300 drives the first actuator 1000 to move, thereby realizing the dispensing of the first detergent. When the power source 4001 moves along the second direction, it drives the input component 4100 to move, which in turn drives the intermediate component 4200 to move. Simultaneously, the input component 4100 moves the intermediate component 4200 to the second position, allowing it to cooperate with the second output component 4400 and drive its movement. This movement of the second output component 4400 then drives the second actuator 2000 and the third actuator 3000 to move. The second actuator 2000 dispenses the second detergent, and the third actuator 3000 dispenses the third detergent. It can be understood that the intermediate component 4200 can reciprocate between the first and second positions. The first position is the extreme position of the intermediate component 4200 when the power source 4001 moves along the first direction, and the second position is the extreme position of the intermediate component 4200 when the power source 4001 moves along the second direction. In other words, the first and second positions represent the extreme positions of the intermediate component 4200's reciprocating movement.

[0086] Furthermore, continuing to refer to Figures 4 to 7, in some embodiments, the connecting component 4002 includes an input gear 4100, an intermediate gear 4200, a first output gear 4300, and a second output gear 4400. The input gear 4100, intermediate gear 4200, first output gear 4300, and second output gear 4400 are all configured to be rotatable. It can be understood that the input gear 4100 constitutes the input component 4100 mentioned above, the intermediate gear 4200 constitutes the intermediate component 4200 mentioned above, the first output gear 4300 constitutes the first output component 4300 mentioned above, and the second output gear 4400 constitutes the second output component 4400 mentioned above.

[0087] The power source 4001 is connected to the input gear 4100. The power source 4001 can drive the input gear 4100 to rotate. Since the power source 4001 can move along the first direction and the second direction, the rotation direction of the input gear 4100 when the power source 4001 moves along the first direction is opposite to the rotation direction when the power source 4001 moves along the second direction. That is, the actions produced by the input gear 4100 are different. The input gear 4100 meshes with the intermediate gear 4200, and the input gear 4100 can drive the intermediate gear 4200 to rotate. Since the input gear 4100 has two opposite rotation directions, the intermediate gear 4200 also has two opposite rotation directions. Thus, the different actions produced by the input gear 4100 when the power source 4001 moves in opposite directions also cause the intermediate gear 4200 to produce different actions, thereby correspondingly driving the first output component 4300 and the second output component 4400.

[0088] Specifically, when the power source 4001 moves along the first direction, the power source 4001 drives the input gear 4100 to rotate, and the rotation of the input gear 4100 drives the intermediate gear 4200 to rotate. At the same time, the input gear 4100 drives the intermediate gear 4200 to move to the first position, so that the intermediate gear 4200 meshes with the first output gear 4300 and drives the first output gear 4300 to rotate. The rotation of the first output gear 4300 drives the first actuator 1000 to move, thereby realizing the dispensing of the first detergent. When the power source 4001 moves in the second direction, the power source 4001 drives the input gear 4100 to rotate. The rotation of the input gear 4100 drives the intermediate gear 4200 to rotate. At the same time, the input gear 4100 drives the intermediate gear 4200 to move to the second position, so that the intermediate gear 4200 meshes with the second output gear 4400 and drives the second output gear 4400 to rotate. The rotation of the second output gear 4400 drives the second actuator 2000 and the third actuator 3000 to move. The movement of the second actuator 2000 realizes the dispensing of the second detergent, and the movement of the third actuator 3000 realizes the dispensing of the third detergent.

[0089] The power source 4001 can be of various types. For example, the power source 4001 can be a motor, which converts electrical energy into mechanical energy. Specifically, the motor can be a stepper motor, a servo motor, etc. When the power source 4001 is a motor, the specific form of the motor's movement in the first and second directions is rotation. That is, the motor's shaft can rotate in the first direction or in the second direction. By configuring the power source 4001 as a motor, it is easier to control the movement of the connecting component 4002.

[0090] Referring to Figures 5 to 8, in some embodiments, the first actuator 1000 includes a pump body 1100, and the drive mechanism 4000 is adapted to drive the pump body 1100 to move, thereby causing the pump body 1100 to suck in and discharge the first detergent. It is understood that the pump body 1100, also called a pump, is a machine that can suck in and discharge fluids. Types of pump bodies 1100 include, but are not limited to, peristaltic pumps and piston pumps. In this embodiment, the first detergent is a liquid detergent. When the first detergent needs to be added, the drive mechanism 4000 drives the first actuator 1000 to move. Specifically, the movement of the first actuator 1000 manifests as the drive mechanism 4000 driving the corresponding structure of the pump body 1100 to move (e.g., driving the shaft of the pump body 1100 to rotate), causing the pump body 1100 to suck in the first detergent from the first cavity 6100 and discharge the first detergent, thereby realizing the addition of the first detergent.

[0091] It is understandable that current dispensing devices use different dispensing methods to dispense detergent in order to adapt to different similar washing appliances. As washing appliances are updated and replaced, the dispensing methods of the dispensing devices also need to be improved to meet more needs. Therefore, the aforementioned drive mechanism 4000 driving the pump body 1100 can not only be applied to the dispensing device in this application, but also to other types of dispensing devices. For example, in some other embodiments, the dispensing device includes a drive mechanism 4000 and a first actuator 1000. The first actuator 1000 includes the pump body 1100, and the drive mechanism 4000 is adapted to drive the shaft of the pump body 1100 to rotate, so that the pump body 1100 sucks and discharges the first detergent.

[0092] Furthermore, referring to Figure 8, in some embodiments, the drive mechanism 4000 includes a first output gear 4300, which is coaxially arranged with the rotating shaft of the pump body 1100. The drive mechanism 4000 is adapted to drive the rotating shaft of the pump body 1100 to rotate through the first output gear 4300, thereby causing the pump body 1100 to suck and discharge the first detergent.

[0093] Specifically, by making the first output gear 4300 coaxial with the rotating shaft of the pump body 1100, the first output gear 4300 can drive the rotating shaft of the pump body 1100 to rotate coaxially, which helps to save space. Taking the drive mechanism 4000, which includes a power source 4001 and a connecting component 4002, and the connecting component 4002, which includes an input gear 4100, an intermediate gear 4200, a first output gear 4300, and a second output gear 4400, as an example, when the power source 4001 moves along the first direction, the power source 4001 drives the input gear 4100 to rotate. The rotation of the input gear 4100 drives the intermediate gear 4200 to rotate. At the same time, the input gear 4100 drives the intermediate gear 4200 to move to the first position, so that the intermediate gear 4200 meshes with the first output gear 4300 and drives the first output gear 4300 to rotate. The rotation of the first output gear 4300 drives the shaft of the pump body 1100 to rotate. The pump body 1100 draws in the first detergent and discharges the first detergent, thereby realizing the dispensing of the first detergent.

[0094] Referring to Figures 9, 10, 11, and 13, in some embodiments, the drive mechanism 4000 is adapted to actuate the second actuator 2000, causing the second actuator 2000 to unlock the cover 7100 of the dispensing device and open the dispensing port 6210 of the dispensing device, allowing the second detergent to be dispensed from the dispensing port 6210. It is understood that the dispensing device has a location (second cavity 6200) for storing the second detergent, and this location (second cavity 6200) forms the dispensing port 6210. The dispensing device is provided with a cover 7100 for opening and closing the dispensing port 6210. When the second detergent is placed in this location, closing the dispensing port 6210 with the cover 7100 prevents the second detergent from being dispensed from the dispensing port 6210. Opening the dispensing port 6210 allows the second detergent to leave the second cavity 6200 and be dispensed from the dispensing port 6210 (i.e., dispensing the second detergent is achieved). The cover 7100 is locked when the dispensing port 6210 is closed. When the cover 7100 is unlocked, it springs open under the action of an elastic element to open the dispensing port 6210. In this embodiment, the second detergent is a solid detergent. When the second detergent needs to be dispensed, the drive mechanism 4000 drives the second actuator 2000 to move, causing the second actuator 2000 to unlock the cover 7100, thus opening the dispensing port 6210 and dispensing the second detergent from the dispensing port 6210, such as dispensing it from the dispensing port 6210 under the action of gravity.

[0095] It is understandable that current dispensing devices use different dispensing methods to dispense detergent in order to adapt to different similar washing appliances. As washing appliances are updated and replaced, the dispensing methods of the dispensing devices also need to be improved to meet more needs. Therefore, the cooperation between the second actuator 2000 and the drive mechanism 4000 to unlock the cover 7100 can be applied not only to the dispensing device in this application, but also to other types of dispensing devices. For example, in some other embodiments, the dispensing device includes a drive mechanism 4000 and a second actuator 2000. The drive mechanism 4000 is adapted to drive the second actuator 2000 to unlock the cover 7100 of the dispensing device, and to open the dispensing port 6210 of the dispensing device so that the second detergent can be dispensed from the dispensing port 6210.

[0096] Referring to Figures 9 to 13, in some embodiments, the second actuator 2000 includes a rotating shaft 2100 and a pawl 2200 disposed on the rotating shaft 2100. The drive mechanism 4000 is adapted to connect to the rotating shaft 2100 to drive it to rotate. The pawl 2200 is adapted to rotate when the rotating shaft 2100 rotates to unlock the cover 7100. Specifically, the second actuator 2000's activity manifests as the drive mechanism 4000 driving the second actuator 2000 to rotate, more specifically, the drive mechanism 4000 driving the rotating shaft 2100 to rotate, causing the rotating shaft 2100 to drive the pawl 2200 to rotate. The rotation of the pawl 2200 unlocks the cover 7100, thus enabling the dispensing of the second detergent. By configuring the rotating shaft 2100 and the pawl 2200, the pawl 2200 can be positioned away from the drive mechanism 4000, facilitating structural arrangement.

[0097] Referring to Figures 14, 15, and 16, in some embodiments, the chuck 2200 is sleeved on the rotating shaft 2100. The peripheral wall of the rotating shaft 2100 has a chuck protrusion 2110, and the chuck 2200 has a notch 2210. The chuck protrusion 2110 is adapted to engage with the notch 2210 so that the rotating shaft 2100 can drive the chuck 2200 to rotate. This arrangement reduces the complexity of the fit between the rotating shaft 2100 and the chuck 2200, which helps to simplify the structure. Specifically, the chuck protrusion 2110 engages with the notch 2210. When the rotating shaft 2100 rotates, along the rotation direction of the rotating shaft 2100, the chuck protrusion 2110 abuts against the wall of the notch 2210, thereby driving the chuck 2200 to rotate.

[0098] Furthermore, continuing to refer to Figures 14 and 15, in some embodiments, the pawl 2200 is adapted to reciprocate along the rotation axis 2100 at a third position and a fourth position; at the third position, the pawl protrusion 2110 engages with the notch 2210; at the fourth position, the pawl protrusion 2110 and the notch 2210 separate so that the pawl 2200 and the rotation axis 2100 can rotate relative to each other.

[0099] The chuck 2200 and the rotating shaft 2100 are movably engaged. The chuck 2200 can move along the rotating shaft 2100 to the third position and the fourth position. The third and fourth positions are the limit positions of the reciprocating movement of the chuck 2200. When the chuck 2200 is in the third position, the chuck protrusion 2110 engages with the notch 2210. In this case, the rotating shaft 2100 can drive the chuck 2200 to rotate. When the chuck 2200 is in the fourth position, the chuck protrusion 2110 separates from the notch 2210. When the rotating shaft 2100 rotates, along the rotation direction of the rotating shaft 2100, the chuck protrusion 2110 no longer abuts against the wall of the notch 2210. Thus, the rotating shaft 2100 can no longer drive the chuck 2200 to rotate. That is, at this time, the rotating shaft 2100 and the chuck 2200 can rotate relative to each other.

[0100] The drive mechanism 4000 is adapted to drive the rotating shaft 2100 to rotate when the claw 2200 is in the third position, and the claw 2200 is adapted to switch from the third position to the fourth position after unlocking the cover 7100. That is, when it is necessary to add the second detergent, the claw 2200 needs to be in the third position, the drive mechanism 4000 drives the rotating shaft 2100 to rotate, and the rotating shaft 2100 drives the claw 2200 to rotate, so that the claw 2200 unlocks the cover 7100. In this embodiment, the claw 2200 is adapted to switch from the third position to the fourth position after unlocking the cover 7100. That is, after the rotating shaft 2100 drives the claw 2200 to rotate at a certain angle, the claw 2200 unlocks the cover 7100, the cover 7100 opens the delivery port 6210, and the claw 2200 needs to switch from the third position to the fourth position. If the drive mechanism 4000 continues to control the rotating shaft 2100 to rotate, the rotating shaft 2100 can no longer drive the claw 2200 to rotate. In this way, the drive mechanism 4000 can continue to perform other actions without affecting the claw 2200.

[0101] The movement of the claw 2200 from the third position to the fourth position can be achieved by the first elastic element 5100. As shown in Figures 10 to 13, in some embodiments, the dispensing device further includes the first elastic element 5100, which is adapted to generate force on the claw 2200 so as to drive the claw 2200 to switch from the third position to the fourth position after the claw 2200 unlocks the cover 7100. In other words, when the claw 2200 is in the third position, the first elastic element 5100 elastically deforms and accumulates elastic potential energy. At this time, the first elastic element 5100 exerts a force on the claw 2200, which causes the first elastic element 5100 to tend to switch from the third position to the fourth position. When the drive mechanism 4000 drives the rotating shaft 2100 to rotate, the rotating shaft 2100 drives the claw 2200 to rotate, causing the claw 2200 to unlock the cover 7100. After the cover 7100 opens the delivery port 6210, it separates from the claw 2200. At this time, the first elastic element 5100 releases its elastic potential energy, thereby causing the first elastic element 5100 to switch from the third position to the fourth position. Optionally, the first elastic element 5100 is sleeved on the rotating shaft 2100, which makes the arrangement of the first elastic element 5100 more convenient. It is understood that the first elastic element 5100 can be a spring, a pull rope, etc., and the second elastic element 5200 and the third elastic element 5300 can also be similar, which will not be repeated.

[0102] Furthermore, continuing with Figures 10 to 13, in some embodiments, when the cover 7100 switches from the open dispensing port 6210 state to the closed dispensing port 6210 state, it drives the claw 2200 to switch from the fourth position to the third position. It is understood that the switch of the cover 7100 from the open dispensing port 6210 state to the closed dispensing port 6210 state can be achieved electrically or manually. For example, during the operation of the washing machine, the cover 7100 switches from the closed dispensing port 6210 state to the open dispensing port 6210 state. After the washing machine finishes operating, the user can refill the second detergent and manually switch the cover 7100 back to the closed dispensing port 6210 state, at which point the cover 7100 re-engages with the claw 2200. To facilitate the next dispensing of the second detergent, in this embodiment, when the cover 7100 switches to the closed dispensing port 6210 state, the cover 7100 drives the claw 2200 to switch from the fourth position to the third position. This allows the protrusion 2110 to engage with the notch 2210, ensuring that the rotating shaft 2100 can drive the claw 2200 to rotate during the next dispensing of the second detergent. Optionally, the cover 7100 is provided with a protrusion 7120, which is adapted to push the claw 2200 from the fourth position to the third position. The protrusion 7120 makes it easier for the cover 7100 to push the claw 2200.

[0103] Referring to Figures 10 to 13, in some embodiments, the claw 2200 is provided with a locking part 2220, and the cover 7100 has an abutment part 7110. The locking part 2220 is adapted to stop the abutment part 7110 in the direction in which the cover 7100 opens the dispensing port 6210 so that the cover 7100 is in a closed dispensing port 6210 state. The locking part 2220 is adapted to separate from the abutment part 7110 when the claw 2200 rotates so that the cover 7100 switches from the closed dispensing port 6210 state to the open dispensing port 6210 state.

[0104] When the cover 7100 is in the closed dispensing port 6210 state, the locking part 2220 stops the abutment part 7110, and the second actuator 2000 locks the cover 7100. The cover 7100 cannot move in the direction of opening the dispensing port 6210, so that the cover 7100 cannot switch from the closed dispensing port 6210 state to the open dispensing port 6210 state. That is, the cover 7100 remains in the closed dispensing port 6210 state. When a second detergent needs to be added, the drive mechanism 4000 controls the rotating shaft 2100 to rotate, and the rotating shaft 2100 drives the pawl 2200 to rotate. The rotation of the pawl 2200 causes the locking part 2220 to separate from the abutting part 7110. That is, the locking part 2220 no longer blocks the abutting part 7110 in the direction of opening the dispensing port 6210 of the cover 7100. In this way, the cover 7100 can be opened by the action of the elastic member, thereby switching from the state of closing the dispensing port 6210 to the state of opening the dispensing port 6210.

[0105] Referring to Figures 10 to 13, in some embodiments, the dispensing device further includes a second elastic element 5200. The second elastic element 5200 is adapted to generate a force on the claw 2200 to resist the claw 2200 when it rotates to open the cover 7100. Specifically, when the rotating shaft 2100 drives the claw 2200 to rotate to unlock the cover 7100, the second elastic element 5200 undergoes elastic deformation as the claw 2200 rotates, thereby accumulating elastic potential energy and generating a force that resists the claw 2200. After the claw 2200 unlocks the cover 7100, the second elastic element 5200 can release the elastic potential energy, thereby driving the claw 2200 to reset in the opposite direction of the rotation direction of the unlocked cover 7100, so that when the cover 7100 closes the dispensing port 6210 again, the claw 2200 and the cover 7100 cooperate to lock the cover 7100.

[0106] For example, when the drive mechanism 4000 drives the rotating shaft 2100 to rotate, the rotating shaft 2100 drives the pawl 2200 to rotate to unlock the cover 7100. At the same time, the pawl 2200 causes the second elastic element 5200 to elastically deform. After the cover 7100 opens the delivery port 6210, the first elastic element 5100 releases its elastic potential energy, thereby driving the pawl 2200 to move from the third position to the fourth position. The second elastic element 5200 releases its elastic potential energy, thereby driving the pawl 2200 to reset in the opposite direction of the rotation direction of unlocking the cover 7100.

[0107] Furthermore, in some embodiments, when the cover 7100 switches from the state of opening the dispensing port 6210 to the state of closing the dispensing port 6210, the abutting portion 7110 of the cover 7100 touches the locking portion 2220 of the claw 2200, causing the claw 2200 to first rotate in the direction of unlocking the cover 7100 and then rotate in the opposite direction to stop the abutting portion 7110 in the direction of opening the dispensing port 6210 of the cover 7100.

[0108] Specifically, when the cover 7100 switches to the state of closing the dispensing port 6210, the abutment 7110 and the locking part 2220 come into contact. Through the improvement of the structure of the two, the abutment 7110 generates a component force on the locking part 2220. This component force causes the claw 2200 to rotate in the direction of unlocking the cover 7100, thus avoiding the abutment 7110. At this time, the second elastic member 5200 elastically deforms. As the cover 7100 moves into place, the second elastic member 5200 releases its elastic potential energy (i.e., recovers its deformation). The second elastic member 5200 generates a force on the claw 2200, causing the claw 2200 to reset in the opposite direction of the rotation direction of unlocking the cover 7100. In this way, the abutment 7110 can be stopped in the direction of opening the dispensing port 6210 of the cover 7100, thereby keeping the cover 7100 in the state of closing the dispensing port 6210.

[0109] Referring to Figures 10 to 13, in some embodiments, the drive mechanism 4000 includes a second output gear 4400. The drive mechanism 4000 is adapted to drive the rotating shaft 2100 to rotate via the second output gear 4400. The second output gear 4400 is sleeved on the rotating shaft 2100 and adapted to drive the rotating shaft 2100 to rotate during rotation. The second output gear 4400 is sleeved on the rotating shaft 2100, meaning the second output gear 4400 and the rotating shaft 2100 are coaxially arranged. This allows the second output gear 4400 to drive the rotating shaft 2100 to rotate coaxially, which helps save space. Optionally, referring to Figures 9 and 10, the third actuator 3000 is disposed between the second output gear 4400 and the chuck 2200, thus making full use of space and making the structure of the dispensing device more compact.

[0110] Taking the drive mechanism 4000, which includes a power source 4001 and a connecting component 4002, and the connecting component 4002, which includes an input gear 4100, an intermediate gear 4200, a first output gear 4300, and a second output gear 4400, as an example, when the power source 4001 moves in the second direction, the power source 4001 drives the input gear 4100 to rotate. The rotation of the input gear 4100 drives the intermediate gear 4200 to rotate. At the same time, the input gear 4100 drives the intermediate gear 4200 to move to the second position, so that the intermediate gear 4200 meshes with the second output gear 4400 and drives the second output gear 4400 to rotate. The rotation of the second output gear 4400 drives the rotating shaft 2100 to rotate. The rotation of the rotating shaft 2100 drives the pawl 2200 to rotate. The rotation of the pawl 2200 unlocks the cover 7100, thereby realizing the dispensing of the second detergent. Understandably, when the pawl 2200 unlocks the cover 7100, the pawl 2200 switches to the fourth position. When the second output gear 4400 rotates to drive the third actuator 3000 to move, it will also drive the rotating shaft 2100 to rotate. However, the rotating shaft 2100 no longer drives the pawl 2200 to rotate.

[0111] Referring to Figures 5, 6, 7, 9, 10, 17, and 18, in some embodiments, the drive mechanism 4000 is adapted to actuate the third actuator 3000, causing the third actuator 3000 to disengage from the communication port 6310 of the dispensing device, and allowing the third detergent to flow out from the communication port 6310. It is understood that the dispensing device has a location (third cavity 6300) for storing the third detergent, and this location has a communication port 6310. The third actuator 3000 is used to disengage from and block the communication port 6310. When the third detergent is placed in this location, the third actuator 3000 needs to block the communication port 6310, preventing the third detergent from leaving the third cavity 6300 and flowing out from the communication port 6310. When the third actuator 3000 disengages from the communication port 6310, the third detergent can flow out from the communication port 6310, thereby achieving the dispensing of the third detergent. In this embodiment, the third detergent is a liquid detergent such as rinse aid. When the third detergent needs to be added, the drive mechanism 4000 drives the third actuator 3000 to move, so that the third actuator 3000 is disengaged from the connection port 6310, and the third detergent flows out from the connection port 6310, thereby directly or indirectly realizing the addition.

[0112] It is understandable that current dispensing devices use different dispensing methods to dispense detergent in order to adapt to different similar washing appliances. As washing appliances are updated and replaced, the dispensing methods of the dispensing devices also need to be improved to meet more needs. Therefore, the cooperation between the third actuator 3000 and the drive mechanism 4000 and the connection port 6310 can not only be applied to the dispensing device in this application, but also to other types of dispensing devices. For example, in some other embodiments, the dispensing device includes a drive mechanism 4000 and a third actuator 3000. The drive mechanism 4000 is adapted to drive the third actuator 3000 to move, so that the third actuator 3000 disengages from the connection port 6310 of the dispensing device, and the third detergent flows out from the connection port 6310.

[0113] Referring to Figures 17 and 8, in some embodiments, the third actuator 3000 is provided with a rack portion 3121, and the drive mechanism 4000 is adapted to mesh with the rack portion 3121 to drive the third actuator 3000 to move. Specifically, the movement of the third actuator 3000 is manifested by the drive mechanism 4000 driving the rack portion 3121 to move, thereby causing the third actuator 3000 to displace and disengage from the communication port 6310. The rack configuration enables linear displacement of the third actuator 3000, allowing for more effective disengagement from the communication port 6310.

[0114] Referring again to Figures 17 and 18, in some embodiments, the drive mechanism 4000 includes a second output gear 4400. The drive mechanism 4000 is adapted to drive the rack portion 3121 to move via the second output gear 4400. The second output gear 4400 is provided with a pawl portion 4420. The second output gear 4400 is adapted to drive the third actuator 3000 to move by meshing the pawl portion 4420 and the rack portion 3121 when rotating. When the second output gear 4400 rotates, the pawl portion 4420 rotates accordingly. Since the pawl portion 4420 meshes with the rack portion 3121, the rotation of the second output gear 4400 can drive the rack portion 3121 to move. The movement of the rack portion 3121 can disengage the third actuator 3000 from the communication port 6310.

[0115] Taking the drive mechanism 4000, which includes a power source 4001 and a connecting component 4002, and the connecting component 4002, which includes an input gear 4100, an intermediate gear 4200, a first output gear 4300, and a second output gear 4400, as an example, when the power source 4001 moves in the second direction, the power source 4001 drives the input gear 4100 to rotate. The rotation of the input gear 4100 drives the intermediate gear 4200 to rotate. At the same time, the input gear 4100 drives the intermediate gear 4200 to move to the second position, so that the intermediate gear 4200 meshes with the second output gear 4400 and drives the second output gear 4400 to rotate. The rotation of the second output gear 4400 drives the rack part 3121 to move through the gear part 4420. The movement of the rack part 3121 causes the third actuator 3000 to disengage from the communication port 6310, thereby realizing the dispensing of the third detergent.

[0116] Referring to Figures 17 and 18, in some embodiments, the second output gear 4400 is provided with a toothed portion 4410, and the drive mechanism 4000 further includes an input gear 4100. The input gear 4100 is adapted to drive the second output gear 4400 to rotate via the toothed portion 4410. The toothed portion 4410 and the shifting tooth portion 4420 are arranged along the axial direction of the second output gear 4400. In this embodiment, the toothed portion 4410 of the second output gear 4400 is used for transmission connection (directly or indirectly) with the input gear 4100. If the toothed portion 4410 of the second output gear 4400 also meshes with the rack portion 3121, it is not conducive to reducing space occupation. However, arranging the toothed portion 4410 and the shifting tooth portion 4420 along the axial direction of the second output gear 4400 is conducive to reducing space occupation.

[0117] Optionally, referring to Figure 18, along the radial direction of the second output gear 4400, the maximum distance between the center of the second output gear 4400 and the tooth portion 4410 is greater than the maximum distance between the center of the second output gear 4400 and the gear portion 4420. With this arrangement, along the axial direction of the second output gear 4400, the rack portion 3121 and even the entire third actuator 3000 at least partially overlap with the second output gear 4400, thus helping to reduce space occupation.

[0118] Referring to Figures 17 and 18, in some embodiments, the toothed portion 4420 is adapted to separate from the rack portion 3121 after the third actuator 3000 disengages from the communication port 6310. The dispensing device also includes a third elastic member 5300, which is adapted to generate force on the third actuator 3000 to drive the third actuator 3000 toward the communication port 6310 to block the communication port 6310 after the toothed portion 4420 and the rack portion 3121 separate.

[0119] Specifically, the shifting tooth 4420 is not arranged along the entire circumference of the second output gear 4400, but at a certain position on the circumference of the second output gear 4400. Thus, when the second output gear 4400 rotates, the shifting tooth 4420 meshes with the rack 3121 and drives the third actuator 3000 to disengage from the communication port 6310. When the second output gear 4400 continues to rotate at a certain angle, the shifting tooth 4420 separates from the rack 3121. In this embodiment, by providing a third elastic element 5300, the third elastic element 5300 generates force on the third actuator 3000. That is, when the second output gear 4400 rotates and the toothed part 4420 meshes with the rack part 3121, thereby causing the third actuator 3000 to disengage from the communication port 6310, the third elastic element 5300 undergoes elastic deformation to accumulate elastic potential energy and generate force on the third actuator 3000. When the toothed part 4420 separates from the rack part 3121, the third elastic element 5300 releases elastic potential energy, thereby causing the third actuator 3000 to move toward the communication port 6310 and block the communication port 6310. In this way, when the drive mechanism 4000 drives the third actuator 3000, the blocking of the communication port 6310 can be achieved without changing the direction of movement, which is more conducive to the control of the drive mechanism 4000.

[0120] Optionally, in some embodiments, the gear 4420 is adapted to alternately engage and disengage with the rack 3121 when the second output gear 4400 rotates, thus enabling multiple dispensings of the third detergent. For example, when the second output gear 4400 rotates, the gear 4420 engages and disengages with the rack 3121 in sequence through four steps: engagement, disengagement, engagement, and disengagement. The first step causes the third actuator 3000 to disengage from the communication port 6310; the second step causes the third actuator 3000 to block the communication port 6310; the third step causes the third actuator 3000 to disengage from the communication port 6310; and the fourth step causes the third actuator 3000 to block the communication port 6310, thus completing two dispensings of the third detergent.

[0121] Referring to Figure 17, in some embodiments, the third actuator 3000 includes a flexible sealing plug 3200, which is adapted to disengage from and seal the communication port 6310 via the sealing plug 3200. Specifically, the flexible sealing plug 3200 is elastically deformable. For example, the sealing plug 3200 is made of materials such as silicone or rubber. With this configuration, when the third actuator 3000 seals the communication port 6310, the sealing plug 3200 contacts the communication port 6310 and seals it. The sealing plug 3200 deforms, thereby better sealing the communication port 6310.

[0122] Optionally, the third actuator 3000 includes a skeleton member 3100 and a sealing plug 3200, which is sealed and connected to the skeleton member 3100. The skeleton member 3100 is provided with a rack portion 3121. It can be understood that the skeleton member 3100, as a supporting skeleton for the sealing plug 3200, is designed to have high structural strength. Through the arrangement of the skeleton member 3100, the skeleton member 3100 can drive the sealing plug 3200 to disengage from the connecting port 6310 and to block the connecting port 6310. When blocking the connecting port 6310, the skeleton member 3100 can compress the sealing plug 3200 to achieve a better sealing effect.

[0123] Furthermore, referring to Figures 17 and 18, in some embodiments, the skeleton component 3100 includes a support rod 3110 and a transmission rod 3120. The support rod 3110 and the transmission rod 3120 are separate components and interconnected. A sealing plug 3200 is provided on the support rod 3110, and the transmission rod 3120 is provided with a rack portion 3121. The support rod 3110 and the transmission rod 3120 are separate components, that is, the support rod 3110 and the transmission rod 3120 constitute independent components, and are then connected together by a connecting means. By setting the support rod 3110 and the transmission rod 3120 separately, it is more conducive to the manufacturing of the skeleton component 3100, reducing manufacturing difficulty and facilitating structural layout. There are various ways to connect the support rod 3110 and the transmission rod 3120, such as screws, plug-in, snap-fit, and fastening. In this embodiment, the support rod 3110 and the transmission rod 3120 are plugged in, which is convenient and quick.

[0124] The second aspect of this application discloses a washing appliance, including but not limited to dishwashers and washing machines. The washing appliance includes the dispensing device described in the above embodiments. This embodiment, by setting a drive mechanism 4000, is configured to drive the first actuator 1000, the second actuator 2000, and the third actuator 3000. Thus, the dispensing of multiple types of detergent can be controlled by the same drive mechanism 4000. Compared to dispensing devices in related technologies, this significantly reduces the number of dispensing devices, thereby lowering the cost and size of the dispensing devices. It is understood that the dispensing device of this washing appliance adopts the technical solution of the above embodiments, and therefore possesses at least the beneficial effects brought by the technical solutions of the above embodiments, which will not be repeated here.

[0125] The above description is merely a preferred embodiment of this application and does not limit the patent scope of this application. Any equivalent structural transformations made based on the concept of this application and the contents of the specification and drawings of this application, or direct / indirect applications in other related technical fields, are included within the patent protection scope of this application.

Claims

1. A dispensing device, wherein, include: The first actuator (1000) is adapted to control the dispensing of the first detergent; The second actuator (2000) is adapted to control the dispensing of the second detergent; The third actuator (3000) is adapted to control the dispensing of the third detergent; and A drive mechanism (4000) is adapted to drive the first actuator (1000), the second actuator (2000), and the third actuator (3000) to move. When the drive mechanism (4000) drives the first actuator (1000) to move, the first actuator (1000) controls the dispensing of a first detergent. When the drive mechanism (4000) drives the second actuator (2000) to move, the second actuator (2000) controls the dispensing of a second detergent. When the drive mechanism (4000) drives the third actuator (3000) to move, the third actuator (3000) controls the dispensing of a third detergent.

2. The dispensing device as described in claim 1, wherein, The drive mechanism (4000) includes a power source (4001) and a connecting component (4002). The power source (4001) is adapted to move along a first direction and a second direction, the first direction and the second direction being opposite. When the power source (4001) moves along the first direction, the power source (4001) is adapted to drive the connecting component (4002) to move so that the connecting component (4002) drives the first actuator (1000) to move. When the power source (4001) moves along the second direction, the power source (4001) is adapted to drive the connecting component (4002) to move so that the connecting component (4002) drives the second actuator (2000) and the third actuator (3000) to move.

3. The dispensing device as described in claim 2, wherein, The connection component (4002) includes an input component (4100), an intermediate component (4200), a first output component (4300), and a second output component (4400); The power source (4001) is connected to the input device (4100), and the input device (4100) is connected to the intermediate device (4200). The intermediate device (4200) is adapted to move to a first position when the power source (4001) moves along the first direction and drive the first output device (4300) to move, so that the first output device (4300) drives the first actuator (1000) to move. The intermediate device (4200) is adapted to move to a second position when the power source (4001) moves along the second direction and drive the second output device (4400) to move, so that the second output device (4400) drives the second actuator (2000) and the third actuator (3000) to move. The first position and the second position are the limit positions of the reciprocating movement of the intermediate device (4200).

4. The dispensing device as described in claim 2 or 3, wherein, The connecting assembly (4002) includes an input gear (4100), an intermediate gear (4200), a first output gear (4300), and a second output gear (4400); The power source (4001) and the input gear (4100) are connected to drive the input gear (4100) to rotate. The rotation direction of the input gear (4100) when the power source (4001) moves in the first direction is opposite to the rotation direction when the power source (4001) moves in the second direction. The input gear (4100) and the intermediate gear (4200) mesh; the intermediate gear (4200) is adapted to move to a first position and mesh with the first output gear (4300) when the power source (4001) moves along the first direction, so as to drive the first output gear (4300) to rotate, so that the first output gear (4300) drives the first actuator (1000) to move; the intermediate gear (4200) is adapted to move to a second position and mesh with the second output gear (4400) when the power source (4001) moves along the second direction, so as to drive the second output gear (4400) to rotate, so that the second output gear (4400) drives the second actuator (2000) and the third actuator (3000) to move, and the first position and the second position are the limit positions of the reciprocating movement of the intermediate gear (4200).

5. The dispensing device according to any one of claims 2 to 4, wherein, The power source (4001) is a stepper motor.

6. The dispensing device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein, The first actuator (1000) includes a pump body (1100), and the drive mechanism (4000) is adapted to drive the pump body (1100) to move, so that the pump body (1100) sucks and discharges the first detergent.

7. The dispensing device as claimed in claim 6, wherein, The drive mechanism (4000) includes a first output gear (4300), and the drive mechanism (4000) is adapted to drive the rotating shaft of the pump body (1100) to rotate through the first output gear (4300). The first output gear (4300) and the rotating shaft of the pump body (1100) are coaxially arranged.

8. The dispensing device according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein, The drive mechanism (4000) is adapted to drive the second actuator (2000) to move so that the second actuator (2000) unlocks the cover (7100) of the dispensing device and causes the cover (7100) to open the dispensing port (6210) of the dispensing device so that the second detergent is dispensed from the dispensing port (6210).

9. The dispensing device as claimed in claim 8, wherein, The second actuator (2000) includes a rotating shaft (2100) and a pawl (2200) disposed on the rotating shaft (2100). The drive mechanism (4000) is adapted to be connected to the rotating shaft (2100) to drive the rotating shaft (2100) to rotate. The pawl (2200) is adapted to rotate when the rotating shaft (2100) rotates to unlock the cover (7100).

10. The dispensing device as claimed in claim 9, wherein, The pawl (2200) is sleeved on the rotating shaft (2100). The peripheral wall of the rotating shaft (2100) is provided with a pawl protrusion (2110). The pawl (2200) is provided with a notch (2210). The pawl protrusion (2110) is adapted to engage with the notch (2210) so that the rotating shaft (2100) can drive the pawl (2200) to rotate.

11. The dispensing device as claimed in claim 10, wherein, The chuck (2200) is adapted to reciprocate along the rotation axis (2100) at a third position and a fourth position; at the third position, the chuck protrusion (2110) engages with the notch (2210); at the fourth position, the chuck protrusion (2110) and the notch (2210) separate so that the chuck (2200) and the rotation axis (2100) can rotate relative to each other; The drive mechanism (4000) is adapted to drive the rotating shaft (2100) to rotate when the claw (2200) is in the third position, and the claw (2200) is adapted to switch from the third position to the fourth position after unlocking the cover (7100).

12. The dispensing device as claimed in claim 11, wherein, The dispensing device further includes a first elastic element (5100), which is adapted to generate force on the claw (2200) to drive the claw (2200) to switch from the third position to the fourth position after the claw (2200) unlocks the cover (7100).

13. The dispensing device as claimed in claim 11 or 12, wherein, When the cover (7100) switches from the state of opening the delivery port (6210) to the state of closing the delivery port (6210), it drives the claw (2200) to switch from the fourth position to the third position.

14. The dispensing device according to any one of claims 9 to 13, wherein, The drive mechanism (4000) includes a second output gear (4400), which is adapted to drive the rotating shaft (2100) to rotate via the second output gear (4400). The second output gear (4400) is sleeved on the rotating shaft (2100) and is adapted to drive the rotating shaft (2100) to rotate when rotating.

15. The dispensing device as claimed in claim 14, wherein, The third actuator (3000) is located between the second output gear (4400) and the chuck (2200).

16. The dispensing device according to any one of claims 1 to 15, wherein, The drive mechanism (4000) is adapted to drive the third actuator (3000) to move so that the third actuator (3000) is disengaged from the communication port (6310) of the dispensing device and the third detergent flows out from the communication port (6310).

17. The dispensing device as claimed in claim 16, wherein, The third actuator (3000) is provided with a rack portion (3121), and the drive mechanism (4000) is adapted to mesh with the rack portion (3121) to drive the third actuator (3000) to move.

18. The dispensing device as claimed in claim 17, wherein, The drive mechanism (4000) includes a second output gear (4400), which is adapted to drive the rack portion (3121) to move through the second output gear (4400). The second output gear (4400) is provided with a toothed portion (4420), which is adapted to drive the third actuator (3000) to move through the meshing of the toothed portion (4420) and the rack portion (3121) when rotating.

19. The dispensing device as claimed in claim 18, wherein, The prying tooth portion (4420) is adapted to separate from the rack portion (3121) after the third actuator (3000) disengages from the communication port (6310). The dispensing device further includes a third elastic member adapted to generate force on the third actuator (3000) to drive the third actuator (3000) toward the communication port (6310) to block the communication port (6310) after the prying tooth portion (4420) and the rack portion (3121) separate.

20. The dispensing device according to any one of claims 16 to 19, wherein, The third actuator (3000) includes a flexible sealing plug (3200) adapted to disengage from and block the communication port (6310) via the sealing plug (3200).

21. The dispensing device as claimed in claim 1, wherein, The first detergent is a liquid detergent; and / or the second detergent is a solid detergent; and / or the third detergent is a rinse aid.

22. A washing appliance, wherein, Includes the dispensing device as described in any one of claims 1 to 21.

Images