Dispensing device and washing appliance
By designing the actuator and the connecting hole in the dispensing device with a tapered and interference fit, the problem of detergent leakage was solved, and precise and constant amount of detergent dispensing was achieved, thus improving the washing effect.
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- WO · WO
- Patent Type
- Applications
- Current Assignee / Owner
- FOSHAN SHUNDE MIDEA WASHING APPLIANCES MANUFACTURING CO LTD
- Filing Date
- 2025-06-30
- Publication Date
- 2026-05-21
Smart Images
Figure CN2025106199_21052026_PF_FP_ABST
Abstract
Description
Dispensing devices and washing appliances
[0001] Cross-references to related applications
[0002] This application claims priority to Chinese Patent Application No. 202411622324.9, filed on November 13, 2024, 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 that dispenses detergent into the washing chamber. However, current dispensing devices sometimes leak detergent into the washing chamber, resulting in inaccurate detergent dispensing.
[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 main body is provided with a dispensing cavity, a first connecting hole and a second connecting hole, wherein the first connecting hole and the second connecting hole are respectively connected to the dispensing cavity;
[0009] The actuator is adapted to block the second connecting hole when disengaging from the first connecting hole, so that the detergent stored in the dispensing device flows into the dispensing chamber through the first connecting hole, and is also adapted to disengage from the second connecting hole when blocking the first connecting hole, so that the detergent flowing into the dispensing chamber flows out through the second connecting hole and is dispensed into the washing chamber of the washing appliance.
[0010] The actuator is adapted to be inserted into the first connecting hole in a second direction to block the first connecting hole, and is adapted to be pulled out of the first connecting hole in a first direction opposite to the second direction to detach from the first connecting hole. During the process of the actuator detaching from the first connecting hole, the gap formed between the actuator and the outlet end of the first connecting hole gradually increases.
[0011] In some embodiments of this application, the actuator includes a first sealing portion, which is tapered along the second direction, and a gap is formed between the first sealing portion and the outlet end of the first connecting hole during the process of the actuator disengaging from the first connecting hole.
[0012] In some embodiments of this application, the first connecting hole includes a first hole segment, the first hole segment being gradually expanded along the first direction, and the first sealing portion being adapted to abut against the first hole segment when the actuator blocks the first connecting hole.
[0013] In some embodiments of this application, the first connecting hole further includes a second connecting hole downstream of the first connecting hole, the second connecting hole being straight, and the actuator further includes a second sealing part adapted to have an interference fit with the second connecting hole when the actuator blocks the first connecting hole.
[0014] In some embodiments of this application, the actuator is configured to be reciprocating.
[0015] In some embodiments of this application, the actuator is adapted to disengage from the first communicating hole and block the second communicating hole when moving along the first direction, and the actuator is adapted to block the first communicating hole and disengage from the second communicating hole when moving along the second direction.
[0016] In some embodiments of this application, the length of the portion of the actuator adapted to be inserted into the first connecting hole is L1, and the actuator moves a distance L2 from blocking the first connecting hole to disengage from the first connecting hole and block the second connecting hole, satisfying L1 > L2.
[0017] In some embodiments of this application, the dispensing device further includes a driving mechanism adapted to drive the actuator to move along the first direction.
[0018] In some embodiments of this application, the drive mechanism includes an output gear, which is adapted to drive the actuator to move along the first direction when rotated.
[0019] In some embodiments of this application, the output gear is provided with a toothed portion, the actuator is provided with a rack portion, and the output gear is adapted to drive the actuator to move along the first direction by meshing the toothed portion and the rack portion when rotating.
[0020] In some embodiments of this application, the toothed portion is adapted to separate from the rack portion after the actuator disengages from the first communicating hole and blocks the second communicating hole.
[0021] In some embodiments of this application, the dispensing device further includes an elastic element adapted to generate force on the actuator to drive the actuator to move along the second direction after the toothed portion and the rack portion separate, thereby blocking the first communicating hole and disengaging from the second communicating hole.
[0022] The second aspect of this application discloses a washing appliance, which includes the aforementioned dispensing device.
[0023] 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
[0024] 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.
[0025] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of the dispensing device in some embodiments;
[0026] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of the dispensing device in some embodiments (cover omitted);
[0027] Figure 3 is a schematic diagram of the dispensing device in some embodiments (viewpoint different from Figure 1);
[0028] Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view of the dispensing device in some embodiments (the actuator blocks the first connecting hole and disengages from the second connecting hole);
[0029] Figure 5 is an enlarged view of the image marked A in Figure 4;
[0030] Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view of the dispensing device in some embodiments (the actuator disengages from the first connecting hole to block the second connecting hole);
[0031] Figure 7 is an enlarged view of the image marked B in Figure 6;
[0032] Figure 8 is a schematic diagram of the actuator cooperating with the first connecting hole and the second connecting hole in some embodiments (blocking the first connecting hole and disengaging from the second connecting hole);
[0033] Figure 9 is a schematic diagram of the actuator cooperating with the first connecting hole and the second connecting hole in some embodiments (disconnecting from the first connecting hole to block the second connecting hole);
[0034] Figure 10 is a cross-sectional view of the dispensing device in some embodiments (the cross-section is different from that in Figures 4 and 6);
[0035] Figure 11 is a cross-sectional view of the dispensing device in some embodiments (the actuator is omitted);
[0036] Figure 12 is an enlarged view of the image marked C in Figure 11;
[0037] Figure 13 is a schematic diagram of detergent flow when the dispensing device is set horizontally in some embodiments (door open state);
[0038] Figure 14 is a schematic diagram of detergent retention in the first and second storage chambers of the dispensing device in some embodiments (door closed);
[0039] Figure 15 is a schematic diagram of the cooperation between the drive mechanism and the actuator in some embodiments;
[0040] Figure 16 is a schematic diagram of the structure shown in Figure 15 from another angle;
[0041] Figure 17 is a partial schematic diagram of the structure shown in Figure 15;
[0042] Figure 18 is a schematic diagram of the actuator blocking the first communication hole in some embodiments (the second communication hole is not shown);
[0043] Figure 19 is a schematic diagram of the actuator disengaging from the first connecting hole in some embodiments (the second connecting hole is not shown).
[0044] Reference numerals: Main body 1000, first connecting hole 1010, first hole segment 1011, second hole segment 1012, outlet end 1013, gap 1014, second connecting hole 1020, third connecting hole 1030, feeding port 1040, storage chamber 1100, first storage chamber 1110, second storage chamber 1120, dispensing chamber 1200, front wall 1310, rear wall 1320, left side wall 1330, right side wall 1340, top wall 1350, bottom wall 1360, partition 1370, cover 1380, actuator 2000, rack and pinion section 2100, sealing plug 2200, first sealing section 2210, second sealing section 2220, third sealing section 2230, drive mechanism 3000, power source 3100, output gear 3200, prying gear section 3210, elastic element 4000.
[0045] 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
[0046] 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.
[0047] 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.
[0048] 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.
[0049] 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.
[0050] The first aspect of this application discloses a dispensing device. As shown in Figures 1 to 9 and Figures 11 and 12, in some embodiments, the dispensing device includes a main body 1000 and an actuator 2000. The main body 1000 is provided with a dispensing cavity 1200, a first connecting hole 1010 and a second connecting hole 1020. The first connecting hole 1010 communicates with the dispensing cavity 1200, and the second connecting hole 1020 communicates with the dispensing cavity 1200. Detergent stored in the dispensing device can enter the dispensing cavity 1200 through the first connecting hole 1010, and the detergent entering the dispensing cavity 1200 can flow out through the second connecting hole 1020 and be dispensed into the washing chamber of the washing appliance.
[0051] The actuator 2000 needs to cooperate with the first connecting hole 1010 and the second connecting hole 1020 to dispensing detergent. The actuator 2000 is configured to be movable, allowing it to block the second connecting hole 1020 when disengaging from the first connecting hole 1010, and to disengage from the second connecting hole 1020 when blocking the first connecting hole 1010. Blocking means forming a seal, preventing detergent from passing through; disengaging means opening, allowing detergent to pass through. When detergent dispensing is not required, the actuator 2000 blocks the first connecting hole 1010 and disengages from the second connecting hole 1020, preventing the detergent stored in the dispensing device from entering the dispensing chamber 1200 through the first connecting hole 1010. When detergent needs to be added, the actuator 2000 disengages from the first connecting hole 1010 and blocks the second connecting hole 1020. The detergent stored in the dispensing device enters the dispensing chamber 1200 through the first connecting hole 1010. Since the actuator 2000 blocks the second connecting hole 1020, the detergent that has entered the dispensing chamber 1200 remains in the dispensing chamber 1200. Then, the actuator 2000 switches to blocking the first connecting hole 1010 and disengaging from the second connecting hole 1020. The detergent stored in the dispensing device can no longer enter the dispensing chamber 1200 through the first connecting hole 1010, while the detergent that has already entered the dispensing chamber 1200 flows out through the second connecting hole 1020 and is added to the washing chamber. The process of the detergent flowing out from the second connecting hole 1020 until it is added to the washing chamber can be either direct or indirect entry into the washing chamber, and is not limited in this embodiment. The presence of liquid detergent indicates that it is a liquid detergent. The main function of detergent is to clean and remove stains, or it can be used as an auxiliary agent for cleaning and stain removal. Of course, detergents with other functions can also be used, such as detergents that are rinse aids.
[0052] It is worth noting that when detergent needs to be added, the actuator 2000 first seals the first connecting hole 1010 and disengages from the second connecting hole 1020, then switches to disengaging from the first connecting hole 1010 and sealing the second connecting hole 1020. This allows the detergent stored in the dispensing device to enter the dispensing chamber 1200 through the first connecting hole 1010. However, this presents a problem: when the actuator 2000 disengages from the first connecting hole 1010 but has not yet sealed the second connecting hole 1020, the first connecting hole 1010... When the first connecting hole 1010 and the second connecting hole 1020 are both open, the detergent that enters the dispensing chamber 1200 will flow out through the second connecting hole 1020 and be dispensed into the washing chamber. In other words, when the actuator 2000 disengages from the first connecting hole 1010 until it blocks the second connecting hole 1020, some of the detergent that enters the dispensing chamber 1200 may leak into the washing chamber. Finally, the detergent in the dispensing chamber 1200 will be dispensed into the washing chamber. This will result in inaccurate detergent dispensing and affect the washing effect.
[0053] Therefore, in this embodiment, the actuator 2000 is designed to be inserted into the first connecting hole 1010 in the second direction to block the first connecting hole 1010, and pulled out of the first connecting hole 1010 in the first direction to detach from the first connecting hole 1010. The first direction is opposite to the second direction. During the process of the actuator 2000 detaching from the first connecting hole 1010, the gap 1014 formed between the actuator 2000 and the outlet end 1013 of the first connecting hole 1010 gradually increases. As the gap 1014 gradually increases, the flow rate of detergent entering the dispensing chamber 1200 through this gap 1014 gradually increases. That is, when the actuator 2000 has just begun to detach from the first connecting hole 1010 but has not yet... When the second connecting hole 1020 is blocked (both the first connecting hole 1010 and the second connecting hole 1020 are in a connected state), only a small amount of detergent enters the dispensing chamber 1200. Until the actuator 2000 blocks the second connecting hole 1020, the gap 1014 between the actuator 2000 and the outlet end 1013 of the first connecting hole 1010 is at its maximum, and the flow rate of detergent entering the dispensing chamber 1200 through the gap 1014 is at its maximum. By setting it up in this way, the detergent that enters the dispensing chamber 1200 when the actuator 2000 just begins to disengage from the first connecting hole 1010 is prevented from leaking into the washing chamber through the second connecting hole 1020, thereby maximizing the accuracy of detergent dispensing.
[0054] Referring to Figures 4 to 9, in some embodiments, the actuator 2000 includes a first sealing part 2210. When the actuator 2000 is inserted into the first connecting hole 1010, the first sealing part 2210 is also inserted into the first connecting hole 1010. When the actuator 2000 is pulled out of the first connecting hole 1010, the first sealing part 2210 is also pulled out of the first connecting hole 1010. In this embodiment, the first sealing part 2210 is designed to be tapered along the second direction, and a gap 1014 is formed between the first sealing part 2210 and the outlet end 1013 of the first connecting hole 1010 during the process of the actuator 2000 disengaging from the first connecting hole 1010. The tapered first sealing part 2210 facilitates the gradual increase of the gap 1014. That is, during the process of the actuator 2000 being pulled away from the first connecting hole 1010, since the outlet end 1013 of the first connecting hole 1010 is relatively stationary, while the first sealing part 2210 is gradually shrinking along the second direction, as the actuator 2000 is pulled away from the first connecting hole 1010 (along the first direction), the gap 1014 formed between the outlet end 1013 of the first connecting hole 1010 and the first sealing part 2210 can gradually increase.
[0055] Referring to Figures 4 to 9, in some embodiments, the first connecting hole 1010 includes a first hole segment 1011, which is gradually expanded along a first direction. The first sealing part 2210 is adapted to abut against the first hole segment 1011 when the actuator 2000 blocks the first connecting hole 1010. The first sealing part 2210 is gradually narrowed along a second direction, and the first hole segment 1011 is gradually expanded along the first direction. Thus, when the actuator 2000 is inserted into the first connecting hole 1010 along the second direction, the first hole segment 1011 abuts against the first sealing part 2210, thereby stopping and positioning the insertion of the actuator 2000 and simultaneously forming a seal.
[0056] Referring to Figures 4 to 9, in some embodiments, the first connecting hole 1010 further includes a second segment 1012, which is located downstream of the first segment 1011. "Downstream" means that when detergent passes through the first connecting hole 1010, it first flows through the first segment 1011 and then through the second segment 1012. In this embodiment, the second segment 1012 is designed to be straight, i.e., the second segment 1012 is a straight section. The actuator 2000 also includes a second sealing part 2220. When the actuator 2000 blocks the first connecting hole 1010, the second sealing part 2220 and the second segment 1012 are press-fitted (for example, the second sealing part 2220 is of equal diameter), thus forming a seal between the second sealing part 2220 and the second segment 1012. It is understandable that the first orifice 1011 is gradually widened while the second orifice 1012 is straight. Thus, the seals formed by the first orifice 1011 and the first sealing part 2210, and the seals formed by the second orifice 1012 and the second sealing part 2220, have different sealing directions, which helps improve the sealing effect when the actuator 2000 blocks the first connecting hole 1010. Furthermore, during the process of the actuator 2000 disengaging from the first connecting hole 1010, before the actuator 2000 moves a distance along the first direction corresponding to the length of the second orifice 1012, the second sealing part 2220 can maintain its seal with the second orifice 1012. This maximizes the prevention of detergent entering the dispensing chamber 1200 immediately after the actuator 2000 disengages from the first connecting hole 1010, further improving the accuracy of detergent dispensing.
[0057] In some embodiments of this application, as shown in Figures 4 to 9, the actuator 2000 is configured to reciprocate to cooperate with the first connecting hole 1010 and the second connecting hole 1020, simplifying control. Specifically, the actuator 2000 can move along a first direction and a second direction, the first direction being opposite to the second direction, thus achieving reciprocating movement. When the actuator 2000 moves along the first direction, it disengages from the first connecting hole 1010 and blocks the second connecting hole 1020. During the movement of the actuator 2000 along the first direction, there is a state where it is disengaged from the first connecting hole 1010 but not yet blocked from the second connecting hole 1020. Through the improvement of this application, it is minimized that detergent enters the dispensing chamber 1200 through the first connecting hole 1010 and leaks through the second connecting hole 1020 in this state. When the actuator 2000 moves along the second direction, it blocks the first connecting hole 1010 and disengages from the second connecting hole 1020.
[0058] For example, the actuator 2000 includes a sealing plug 2200, which is flexible. For example, the sealing plug 2200 is made of materials such as silicone or rubber. The sealing plug 2200 is provided with a first sealing part 2210, a second sealing part 2220 and a third sealing part 2230. The sealing plug 2200 passes through the second connecting hole 1020, and the first sealing part 2210, the second sealing part 2220 and the third sealing part 2230 are located between the first connecting hole 1010 and the second connecting hole 1020. When the actuator 2000 moves along the first direction, the first sealing part 2210, the second sealing part 2220, and the third sealing part 2230 move accordingly, causing the first sealing part 2210 and the second sealing part 2220 to disengage from the first connecting hole 1010, and the third sealing part 2230 to block the second connecting hole 1020. When the actuator 2000 moves along the first direction, there is a state where the first sealing part 2210 and the second sealing part 2220 disengage from the first connecting hole 1010, but the third sealing part 2230 has not yet blocked the second connecting hole 1020. When the actuator 2000 moves along the second direction, the first sealing part 2210, the second sealing part 2220, and the third sealing part 2230 move accordingly, causing the first sealing part 2210 and the second sealing part 2220 to block the first connecting hole 1010, and the third sealing part 2230 to disengage from the second connecting hole 1020.
[0059] Referring to Figures 8 and 9, in some embodiments, the length of the portion of the actuator 2000 suitable for insertion into the first connecting hole 1010 is L1. The actuator 2000 moves a distance L2 from sealing the first connecting hole 1010 to disengage from the first connecting hole 1010 and seal the second connecting hole 1020, satisfying L1 > L2. Because L1 is greater than L2, when the actuator 2000 seals the second connecting hole 1020, although it disengages from the first connecting hole 1010, it does not completely leave it. This facilitates the actuator 2000's smooth insertion into the first connecting hole 1010 when it needs to seal the first connecting hole 1010 and moves in the second direction, reducing the occurrence of jamming. It is precisely through this design that the first connecting hole 1010 is not completely exposed when the actuator 2000 moves to seal the second connecting hole 1020, further improving the accuracy of detergent dispensing.
[0060] Referring to Figures 4 to 7, in some embodiments, the main body 1000 is provided with a storage cavity 1100 for storing detergent, and the actuator 2000 is used to control the detergent to enter the dispensing cavity 1200 from the storage cavity 1100. Since the volume of the dispensing cavity 1200 is constant, the amount of detergent entering the dispensing cavity 1200 each time is constant, which also ensures that the amount of detergent dispensed into the washing cavity each time is constant, thereby minimizing the difference in the amount of detergent dispensed each time.
[0061] Specifically, when detergent is not needed, the actuator 2000 blocks the first connecting hole 1010 and disengages from the second connecting hole 1020, preventing detergent in the storage chamber 1100 from entering the dispensing chamber 1200 through the first connecting hole 1010. When detergent needs to be dispensed, the actuator 2000 disengages from the first connecting hole 1010 and blocks the second connecting hole 1020, allowing detergent in the storage chamber 1100 to enter the dispensing chamber 1200 through the first connecting hole 1010. Then, the actuator 2000 switches to blocking the first connecting hole 1010 and disengaging from the second connecting hole 1020. At this point, detergent in the storage chamber 1100 can no longer enter the dispensing chamber 1200 through the first connecting hole 1010, while detergent already in the dispensing chamber 1200 flows out through the second connecting hole 1020 and is dispensed into the washing chamber.
[0062] In some embodiments, the dispensing device is adapted to be installed on the door of the washing appliance. The door has a closed state and an open state. When the door is closed, it is vertically positioned; when the door is open, it is horizontally positioned. When the door is closed, the washing chamber is closed; when the door is open, the washing chamber is open. When it is necessary to load a target object into the washing chamber, the door is open and horizontally positioned. When it is necessary to wash the target object, the door is closed and vertically positioned. The dispensing device is installed on the door, specifically on the inner side of the door.
[0063] Referring to Figures 4 to 7 and Figures 11 to 14, the storage cavity 1100 includes a first storage cavity 1110 and a second storage cavity 1120. The first storage cavity 1110 and the second storage cavity 1120 are connected. When the door is in the open state, detergent enters the second storage cavity 1120 from the first storage cavity 1110. It can be understood that as long as detergent enters the second storage cavity 1120 when the door is in the open state, regardless of the amount of detergent entering the second storage cavity 1120, it can be considered that detergent enters the second storage cavity 1120 from the first storage cavity 1110. When the door switches from the open state to the closed state, detergent is retained in both the first storage cavity 1110 and the second storage cavity 1120, and the detergent in the first storage cavity 1110 is isolated from the detergent in the second storage cavity 1120. In other words, when the door is in the open state, a portion of the detergent enters the second storage chamber 1120 from the first storage chamber 1110, and the remaining detergent remains in the first storage chamber 1110. When the door switches from the open state to the closed state, the aforementioned portion of the detergent remains in the second storage chamber 1120, and the aforementioned remaining detergent remains in the first storage chamber 1110. The detergent in the first storage chamber 1110 is isolated from the detergent in the second storage chamber 1120. It can be understood that the isolation of the detergent in the first storage chamber 1110 from the detergent in the second storage chamber 1120 means that in this state, the detergent in the second storage chamber 1120 cannot enter the first storage chamber 1110, and the detergent in the first storage chamber 1110 cannot enter the second storage chamber 1120.
[0064] In this embodiment, when the door is closed, the actuator 2000 controls the detergent in the second storage chamber 1120 to enter the dispensing chamber 1200. During one door opening and closing process, the first storage chamber 1110 and the second storage chamber 1120 each contain detergent. When detergent is not needed, the actuator 2000 blocks the first connecting hole 1010 and disengages from the second connecting hole 1020. If the actuator 2000 does not seal the first connecting hole 1010 tightly, the detergent in the second storage chamber 1120 may leak into the dispensing chamber 1200. Since the actuator 2000 is disengaged from the second connecting hole 1020 at this time, the detergent that leaks into the dispensing chamber 1200 flows out through the second connecting hole 1020 and eventually enters the washing chamber. Because the detergent in the first storage chamber 1110 will not enter the second storage chamber 1120 and thus leak, the amount of detergent leakage can be reduced. In particular, the amount of detergent stored in the second storage chamber 1120 can be designed to be the amount required for a single wash. Even if all the detergent in the second storage chamber 1120 leaks into the washing chamber during a single wash, although it is not at a suitable washing stage, it can still reduce the impact on the washing process compared to the situation in related technologies where all the detergent leaks into the washing chamber.
[0065] Referring to Figures 11, 13, and 14, in some embodiments, a third connecting hole 1030 is provided between the first storage cavity 1110 and the second storage cavity 1120. The third connecting hole 1030 connects the first storage cavity 1110 and the second storage cavity 1120. When the door is in the open state, detergent is suitable to enter the second storage cavity 1120 from the first storage cavity 1110 through the third connecting hole 1030. The first storage chamber 1110 and the second storage chamber 1120 are connected through the third connecting hole 1030. When the door is in the open state, the dispensing device is also horizontally positioned. A portion of the detergent enters the second storage chamber 1120 from the first storage chamber 1110 through the third connecting hole 1030, while the remaining portion of the detergent remains in the first storage chamber 1110. When the door is switched from the open state to the closed state, the dispensing device changes from a horizontal to a vertical position. The aforementioned portion of the detergent remains in the second storage chamber 1120 and cannot enter the first storage chamber 1110 through the third connecting hole 1030, and the aforementioned remaining portion of the detergent remains in the first storage chamber 1110 and cannot enter the second storage chamber 1120 through the third connecting hole 1030.
[0066] Optionally, in some embodiments, when the door is open, the highest point of the detergent level in the first storage chamber 1110 is higher than the lowest point of the third connecting hole 1030 and the lowest point of the second storage chamber 1120, so that detergent can enter the second storage chamber 1120 from the first storage chamber 1110 through the third connecting hole 1030. In this state, since the detergent level in the first storage chamber 1110 is higher, the detergent can pass through the third connecting hole 1030 and enter the second storage chamber 1120 under the action of gravity until the detergent level in the second storage chamber 1120 is the same as the detergent level in the first storage chamber 1110. Both the second and first storage chambers contain detergent. This arrangement facilitates the entry of detergent from the first storage chamber 1110 through the third connecting hole 1030 into the second storage chamber 1120 when the door is open.
[0067] Optionally, in some embodiments, when the door is closed, the highest point of the detergent level in the first storage chamber 1110 is lower than the lowest point of the third connecting hole 1030, and the highest point of the detergent level in the second storage chamber 1120 is lower than the lowest point of the third connecting hole 1030. In this state, since the lowest point of the third connecting hole 1030 is higher than both the detergent level in the second storage chamber 1120 and the detergent level in the first storage chamber 1110, the detergent in the second storage chamber 1120 cannot enter the first storage chamber 1110 through the third connecting hole 1030, and the detergent in the first storage chamber 1110 cannot enter the second storage chamber 1120 through the third connecting hole 1030, thus isolating the detergent in the second storage chamber 1120 from the detergent in the first storage chamber 1110.
[0068] Taking a single door opening and closing process as an example, when the door is open, because the detergent level in the first storage chamber 1110 is higher, the detergent can pass through the third connecting hole 1030 and enter the second storage chamber 1120 under the influence of gravity, until the detergent level in the second storage chamber 1120 is the same as that in the first storage chamber 1110. Both the second and first storage chambers contain detergent. When the door switches from open to closed, the detergent in the second storage chamber 1120 falls back down under gravity until its level is below the lowest point of the third connecting hole 1030, and the detergent in the first storage chamber 1110 also falls back down under gravity until its level is below the lowest point of the third connecting hole 1030. At this point, both the second and first storage chambers 1120 contain detergent.
[0069] Referring to Figures 11, 13, and 14, in some embodiments, a partition 1370 is provided between the first storage cavity 1110 and the second storage cavity 1120. The partition 1370 is adapted to isolate the detergent in the first storage cavity 1110 from the detergent in the second storage cavity 1120 when the door is closed. The partition 1370 facilitates the isolation of the detergent in the second storage cavity 1120 from the detergent in the first storage cavity 1110. Optionally, the partition 1370 is adapted to extend vertically when the door is closed. This vertical extension facilitates the side-by-side arrangement of the second storage cavity 1120 and the first storage cavity 1110, which helps to maximize space utilization.
[0070] Referring to Figures 10 and 11, with the door closed as a reference, the user stands in front of the washing appliance to control the opening and closing of the door. The main body 1000 has a front wall 1310, a rear wall 1320, a left side wall 1330, a right side wall 1340, a top wall 1350, and a bottom wall 1360. The front wall 1310, rear wall 1320, left side wall 1330, right side wall 1340, top wall 1350, and bottom wall 1360 together enclose a certain space. A partition 1370 is disposed between the front wall 1310 and the rear wall 1320, and the top of the partition 1370 and the top wall 1350 are alternately arranged to form a third connecting hole 1030. The bottom of the partition 1370 is connected to the bottom wall 1360, thus dividing the first storage cavity 1110 and the second storage cavity 1120. When the door is open, the second storage chamber 1120 and the first storage chamber 1110 are arranged horizontally. At this time, detergent can enter the second storage chamber 1120 from the first storage chamber 1110 through the third connecting hole 1030. When the door is closed, the second storage chamber 1120 and the first storage chamber 1110 are arranged vertically. Through the isolation of the partition 1370, the detergent in the second storage chamber 1120 cannot enter the first storage chamber 1110, and the detergent in the first storage chamber 1110 cannot enter the second storage chamber 1120.
[0071] Referring to Figure 14, in some embodiments, the volume of the first storage cavity 1110 is greater than the volume of the second storage cavity 1120. For example, the volume of the first storage cavity 1110 is two, three, four or more times the volume of the second storage cavity 1120. By setting it in this way, the frequency of replenishing detergent can be reduced.
[0072] Taking a dishwasher as an example, the detergent is rinse aid. When using the dishwasher for the first time, the door is opened, dishes (the target items) are loaded into the washing chamber, and rinse aid (detergent) is injected into the first storage chamber 1110. At this time, some rinse aid enters the second storage chamber 1120 from the first storage chamber 1110. Then the door is closed, leaving rinse aid in both the second storage chamber 1120 and the first storage chamber 1110. During the washing process, rinse aid from the second storage chamber 1120 enters the delivery chamber 1200 and is then added to the washing chamber. After the washing cycle is complete, the door is opened again, the dishes (the target items) are removed, and the door is closed. During the process of opening and closing the door after the washing cycle, some rinse aid enters the second storage chamber 1120 from the first storage chamber 1110, leaving rinse aid in both the second storage chamber 1120 and the first storage chamber 1110.
[0073] When using the dishwasher for the second time, the door is opened, the dishes (target items) are loaded into the washing chamber, and then the door is closed. At this time, the second storage chamber 1120 and the first storage chamber 1110 each contain rinse aid. During the washing process, the rinse aid in the second storage chamber 1120 is transferred into the delivery chamber 1200 and then into the washing chamber. After the washing is finished, the door is opened, the dishes (target items) are removed, and then the door is closed. During the process of opening and closing the door after the washing is finished, some rinse aid enters the second storage chamber 1120 from the first storage chamber 1110, so that the second storage chamber 1120 and the first storage chamber 1110 each contain rinse aid.
[0074] Similarly, the sizes of the first storage cavity 1110 and the second storage cavity 1120 can be designed according to actual conditions, so that it is not necessary to add rinse aid to the first storage cavity 1110 every time the dishwasher is used, but only after multiple uses of the dishwasher.
[0075] Understandably, because the volume of the first storage chamber 1110 is larger than that of the second storage chamber 1120, under multiple uses of the dishwasher, the amount of detergent entering the second storage chamber 1120 remains constant each time the dishwasher is used, until the amount of detergent in the first storage chamber 1110 falls below a certain level. This ensures a consistent detergent dispensing rate during the first few uses of the dishwasher. It is also understandable that a detection device could be installed to remind the user to replenish the detergent in the first storage chamber 1110. For example, the amount of detergent entering the second storage chamber 1120 is consistent during the first 20 openings and closings, but decreases during the 21st opening and closing. This ensures a consistent detergent dispensing rate during the first 20 uses, and an alarm could be triggered on the 21st use to remind the user to replenish the detergent.
[0076] Referring to Figures 11 and 12, in some embodiments, the volume of the second storage chamber 1120 is larger than the volume of the dispensing chamber 1200. For example, the volume of the second storage chamber 1120 is two, three, four, or more times the volume of the dispensing chamber 1200, thus ensuring that detergent can be dispensed multiple times in a single washing process.
[0077] Referring to Figures 1 and 2, in some embodiments, the main body 1000 is further provided with a feeding port 1040, which is connected to the first storage chamber 1110 to facilitate the replenishment of detergent into the first storage chamber 1110 through the feeding port 1040. When detergent needs to be replenished, the door is in the open state, and the dispensing device is arranged approximately horizontally. The user can replenish detergent into the first storage chamber 1110 through the feeding port 1040. After the detergent enters the first storage chamber 1110, a portion of the detergent enters the second storage chamber 1120. It is understood that the main body 1000 is generally provided with a cover 1380, which is used to close and open the feeding port 1040.
[0078] Referring to Figures 3 to 7 and Figures 15 to 19, in some embodiments, the dispensing device further includes a drive mechanism 3000. The drive mechanism 3000 is adapted to drive the actuator 2000 to move along a first direction, so that the actuator 2000 disengages from the first connecting hole 1010 and blocks the second connecting hole 1020. The disengagement of the actuator 2000 from the first connecting hole 1010 and the blocking of the second connecting hole 1020 are achieved by the drive mechanism 3000, which is a component capable of outputting power. By setting the drive mechanism 3000, the foundation for automatic detergent dispensing is laid.
[0079] Optionally, as shown in Figures 15 to 19, in some embodiments, the drive mechanism 3000 includes an output gear 3200, the output gear 3200 is provided with a toothed portion 3210, and the actuator 2000 is provided with a rack portion 2100. The output gear 3200 is adapted to drive the actuator 2000 to move along a first direction by meshing the toothed portion 3210 and the rack portion 2100 when rotating.
[0080] The drive mechanism 3000 outputs through the output gear 3200, which means that the output gear 3200 outputs in the form of rotation. For example, the drive mechanism 3000 includes a power source 3100, which can be of various types, such as a motor. The motor converts electrical energy into mechanical energy. Specifically, the motor can be a stepper motor, a servo motor, etc. The power source 3100 directly or indirectly drives the output gear 3200 to rotate. When the output gear 3200 rotates, the toothed part 3210 rotates accordingly. Through the meshing of the toothed part 3210 with the rack part 2100, the rotation of the output gear 3200 can drive the rack part 2100 to move linearly (along the first direction), thereby causing the actuator 2000 to disengage from the first connecting hole 1010 and block the second connecting hole 1020.
[0081] Referring to Figures 15 to 19, in some embodiments, the toothed portion 3210 is adapted to separate from the rack portion 2100 after the actuator 2000 disengages from the first connecting hole 1010 and blocks the second connecting hole 1020. The dispensing device also includes an elastic element 4000, which is adapted to generate force on the actuator 2000 so as to drive the actuator 2000 to move in a second direction after the toothed portion 3210 and the rack portion 2100 separate, thereby blocking the first connecting hole 1010 and disengaging from the second connecting hole 1020.
[0082] Specifically, the toothed part 3210 is not arranged along the entire circumference of the output gear 3200, but at a certain position on the circumference of the output gear 3200. Thus, when the output gear 3200 rotates, the toothed part 3210 meshes with the rack part 2100 and drives the actuator 2000 to disengage from the first connecting hole 1010 and block the second connecting hole 1020. When the output gear 3200 continues to rotate at a certain angle, the toothed part 3210 separates from the rack part 2100. In this embodiment, by providing an elastic element 4000, the elastic element 4000 generates force on the actuator 2000. When the output gear 3200 rotates and the gear portion 3210 meshes with the rack portion 2100, thereby driving the actuator 2000 to move along the first direction and disengage from the first connecting hole 1010 and block the second connecting hole 1020, detergent enters the dispensing chamber 1200 from the storage chamber 1100 through the first connecting hole 1010. The elastic element 4000 undergoes elastic deformation, accumulating elastic potential energy and generating force on the actuator 2000. When the output gear 3200 rotates, the detergent enters the dispensing chamber 1200 from the storage chamber 1100 through the first connecting hole 1010. The elastic element 4000 undergoes elastic deformation, accumulating elastic potential energy and generating force on the actuator 2000. When the gear continues to rotate at a certain angle, the toothed part 3210 separates from the rack part 2100, and the elastic element 4000 releases its elastic potential energy, thereby driving the actuator 2000 to move along the second direction to block the first connecting hole 1010 and disengage from the second connecting hole 1020. The detergent that has entered the dispensing chamber 1200 flows out from the second connecting hole 1020. In this way, when the output gear 3200 drives the actuator 2000, the actuator 2000 can move along the second direction without changing the direction of movement of the output gear 3200, which is more conducive to the control of the drive mechanism 3000.
[0083] It is understandable that by alternately engaging and disengaging the gear 3210 with the rack 2100 as the output gear 3200 rotates, multiple detergent dispensing can be achieved. For example, when the output gear 3200 rotates two revolutions, the gear 3210 and the rack 2100 sequentially go through four steps: engagement, disengagement, engagement, and disengagement. In the first step, the actuator 2000 moves in the first direction, disengaging from the first connecting hole 1010 and blocking the second connecting hole 1020. In the second step, the actuator 2000 moves in the second direction, blocking the first connecting hole 1010 and disengaging from the second connecting hole 1020. In the third step, the actuator 2000 moves in the first direction, disengaging from the first connecting hole 1010 and blocking the second connecting hole 1020. In the fourth step, the actuator 2000 moves in the second direction, blocking the first connecting hole 1010 and disengaging from the second connecting hole 1020. Thus, two rotations of the output gear 3200 can complete two detergent dispensing operations. Alternatively, it can be understood that when the output gear 3200 rotates for the first time, the toothed part 3210 and the rack part 2100 first mesh and then separate to complete the first addition of detergent. When the output gear 3200 rotates for the second time, the toothed part 3210 and the rack part 2100 continue to mesh and then separate to complete the second addition of detergent, and so on.
[0084] The second aspect of this application discloses a washing appliance, which can be a dishwasher, a washing machine, etc. Of course, the washing appliance can also be other types of products. The washing appliance includes the above-mentioned dispensing device. It is understood that the dispensing device of the washing appliance in this embodiment adopts the technical solution of the above embodiment, and therefore has at least the beneficial effects brought by the technical solution of the above embodiment, which will not be repeated here.
[0085] 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 delivery device, wherein, include: The main body (1000) is provided with a dispensing cavity (1200), a first connecting hole (1010) and a second connecting hole (1020), wherein the first connecting hole (1010) and the second connecting hole (1020) are respectively connected to the dispensing cavity (1200); The actuator (2000) is adapted to block the second connecting hole (1020) when disengaging from the first connecting hole (1010) so that the detergent stored in the dispensing device flows into the dispensing chamber (1200) through the first connecting hole (1010), and is also adapted to disengage from the second connecting hole (1020) when blocking the first connecting hole (1010) so that the detergent flowing into the dispensing chamber (1200) flows out through the second connecting hole (1020) and is dispensed into the washing chamber of the washing appliance; The actuator (2000) is adapted to be inserted into the first communication hole (1010) in a second direction to block the first communication hole (1010), and is adapted to be pulled out of the first communication hole (1010) in a first direction opposite to the second direction to disengage from the first communication hole (1010). During the process of the actuator (2000) disengaging from the first communication hole (1010), the gap (1014) formed between the actuator (2000) and the outlet end (1013) of the first communication hole (1010) gradually increases.
2. The dispensing device of claim 1, wherein, The actuator (2000) includes a first sealing part (2210), which is tapered along the second direction. During the process of the actuator (2000) disengaging from the first connecting hole (1010), a gap (1014) is formed between the first sealing part (2210) and the outlet end (1013) of the first connecting hole (1010).
3. The dispensing device of claim 2, wherein, The first connecting hole (1010) includes a first hole segment (1011), which is gradually expanded along the first direction. The first sealing part (2210) is adapted to abut against the first hole segment (1011) when the actuator (2000) blocks the first connecting hole (1010).
4. The dispensing device of claim 3, wherein, The first connecting hole (1010) further includes a second connecting hole (1012) located downstream of the first connecting hole (1011). The second connecting hole (1012) is straight. The actuator (2000) further includes a second sealing part (2220). The second sealing part (2220) is adapted to be interference-fitted with the second connecting hole (1012) when the actuator (2000) blocks the first connecting hole (1010).
5. The dispensing device of any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein, The actuator (2000) is configured to reciprocate, and the actuator (2000) is adapted to disengage from the first communication hole (1010) and block the second communication hole (1020) when moving in the first direction, and the actuator (2000) is adapted to block the first communication hole (1010) and disengage from the second communication hole (1020) when moving in the second direction.
6. The dispensing device of claim 5, wherein, The length of the portion of the actuator (2000) adapted to be inserted into the first connecting hole (1010) is L1. The actuator (2000) moves a distance L2 from blocking the first connecting hole (1010) to disengage from the first connecting hole (1010) and block the second connecting hole (1020), satisfying L1 > L2.
7. A dispensing device as claimed in claim 5 or 6, wherein, The dispensing device further includes a drive mechanism (3000), which is adapted to drive the actuator (2000) to move along the first direction.
8. The dispensing device of claim 7, wherein, The drive mechanism (3000) includes an output gear (3200) with a toothed portion (3210), and the actuator (2000) has a rack portion (2100). The output gear (3200) is adapted to drive the actuator (2000) to move along the first direction by meshing the toothed portion (3210) and the rack portion (2100) when rotating.
9. The dispensing device of claim 8, wherein, The prying tooth portion (3210) is adapted to separate from the rack portion (2100) after the actuator (2000) disengages from the first communicating hole (1010) and blocks the second communicating hole (1020). The dispensing device further includes an elastic element (4000) adapted to generate force on the actuator (2000) to drive the actuator (2000) to move along the second direction after the prying tooth portion (3210) and the rack portion (2100) separate, thereby blocking the first communicating hole (1010) and disengaging from the second communicating hole (1020).
10. A washing appliance, wherein, Includes the dispensing device as described in any one of claims 1 to 9.