Dispensing device and washing appliance
By designing a dispensing device for the storage chamber and dispensing chamber, and using an actuator to control the amount of detergent dispensed, the problem of uneven detergent dispensing in the prior art is solved, and the stability and consistency of the washing effect are achieved.
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
AI Technical Summary
Existing dispensing devices cannot maintain a constant amount of detergent each time they are added to the washing chamber, which affects the washing effect.
A dispensing device is designed, including a storage chamber and a dispensing chamber. The detergent is controlled by an actuator to enter the dispensing chamber from the storage chamber and is dispensed into the washing chamber when needed, ensuring a constant dispensing amount each time.
By setting up the dispensing chamber, a constant amount of detergent is dispensed each time, ensuring the stability and consistency of the washing effect.
Smart Images
Figure CN2025106203_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. 202411623921.3, 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. Therefore, these washing appliances are equipped with a dispensing device. The dispensing device has a cavity that contains liquid detergent. When detergent needs to be dispensed, the detergent in the cavity is controlled to flow out and be directly or indirectly dispensed into the washing chamber. Current dispensing devices cannot maintain a constant amount of detergent each time it is dispensed into the washing chamber, which will affect the washing effect.
[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 includes a storage chamber and a dispensing chamber, the storage chamber being adapted to contain liquid detergent; and
[0009] An actuator is adapted to control detergent to enter the dispensing chamber from the storage chamber, and is also adapted to control the detergent entering the dispensing chamber to be dispensed into the washing chamber of the washing appliance.
[0010] In some embodiments of this application, the main body is further provided with a first communication port and a second communication port, the first communication port connecting the storage cavity and the dispensing cavity, and the second communication port connecting the dispensing cavity;
[0011] The actuator is adapted to block the second connection port when disengaging from the first connection port, so that detergent can enter the dispensing chamber from the storage chamber through the first connection port, and is also adapted to disengage from the second connection port when blocking the first connection port, so that detergent entering the dispensing chamber can flow out through the second connection port and be dispensed into the washing chamber.
[0012] In some embodiments of this application, the actuator is configured to be reciprocating.
[0013] In some embodiments of this application, the actuator is adapted to disengage from the first communication port and block the second communication port when moving in a first direction, and the actuator is adapted to block the first communication port and disengage from the second communication port when moving in a second direction, wherein the second direction is opposite to the first direction.
[0014] In some embodiments of this application, the dispensing device is adapted to be installed on the door of the washing appliance, and is vertically arranged when the door is closed.
[0015] In some embodiments of this application, the dispensing device is adapted to be installed on the door of the washing appliance and is arranged horizontally when it is in the open state.
[0016] In some embodiments of this application, the storage cavity includes a first storage cavity and a second storage cavity that are connected to each other, and when the door is in the open state, detergent is adapted to enter the second storage cavity from the first storage cavity.
[0017] In some embodiments of this application, when the door switches from an open state to a closed state, the first storage cavity and the second storage cavity respectively retain detergent, and the detergent in the first storage cavity and the detergent in the second storage cavity are isolated from each other. The actuator is adapted to control the detergent in the second storage cavity to enter the dispensing cavity.
[0018] In some embodiments of this application, a third communication port is provided between the first storage cavity and the second storage cavity, the third communication port connecting the first storage cavity and the second storage cavity, and when the door is in the open state, detergent is adapted to enter the second storage cavity from the first storage cavity through the third communication port.
[0019] In some embodiments of this application, when the door is in the open state, the highest point of the detergent level in the first storage chamber is higher than the lowest point of the third connecting port and the lowest point of the second storage chamber, so that the detergent is suitable to enter the second storage chamber from the first storage chamber through the third connecting port.
[0020] In some embodiments of this application, when the door is in the open state, the highest point of the detergent level in the first storage cavity is lower than the lowest point of the third connecting port.
[0021] In some embodiments of this application, the highest point of the detergent level in the second storage chamber is lower than the lowest point of the third connecting port.
[0022] In some embodiments of this application, a partition is provided between the first storage cavity and the second storage cavity, the partition being adapted to isolate the detergent in the first storage cavity from the detergent in the second storage cavity when the door is closed.
[0023] In some embodiments of this application, the volume of the first storage cavity is greater than the volume of the second storage cavity.
[0024] In some embodiments of this application, the volume of the second storage cavity is larger than the volume of the delivery cavity.
[0025] In some embodiments of this application, the main body is further provided with a feeding port, which is connected to the first storage cavity to facilitate the replenishment of detergent into the first storage cavity through the feeding port.
[0026] In some embodiments of this application, the main body is further provided with a vent, which is connected to the delivery cavity.
[0027] A second aspect of this application also discloses a washing appliance, which includes the aforementioned dispensing device.
[0028] The technical solution of this application is designed with a dispensing chamber. Before the detergent is added to the washing chamber, the detergent can be controlled to enter the dispensing chamber first, and then the detergent in the dispensing chamber is added to the washing chamber. The setting of the dispensing chamber ensures that the amount of detergent added to the washing chamber each time remains constant, thus ensuring the washing effect.
[0029] 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
[0030] 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.
[0031] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of the dispensing device in some embodiments;
[0032] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of the dispensing device in some embodiments (cover omitted);
[0033] Figure 3 is a schematic diagram of the dispensing device in some embodiments (viewpoint different from Figure 1);
[0034] Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view of the dispensing device in some embodiments (the actuator blocks the first connection port and disconnects from the second connection port);
[0035] Figure 5 is an enlarged view of the image marked A in Figure 4;
[0036] Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view of the dispensing device in some embodiments (the actuator disengages from the first communication port to block the second communication port);
[0037] Figure 7 is an enlarged view of the image marked B in Figure 6;
[0038] Figure 8 is a cross-sectional view of the dispensing device in some embodiments (the cross-section is different from that in Figures 4 and 6);
[0039] Figure 9 is a cross-sectional view of the dispensing device in some embodiments (the actuator is omitted);
[0040] Figure 10 is an enlarged view of the image marked C in Figure 9;
[0041] Figure 11 is a schematic diagram of detergent flow when the dispensing device is arranged horizontally in some embodiments (door open state);
[0042] Figure 12 is a schematic diagram of detergent retention in the first and second storage chambers of the dispensing device in some embodiments (door closed);
[0043] Figure 13 is a schematic diagram of the cooperation between the drive mechanism and the actuator in some embodiments;
[0044] Figure 14 is a schematic diagram of the structure shown in Figure 13 from another angle;
[0045] Figure 15 is a partial schematic diagram of the structure shown in Figure 13;
[0046] Figure 16 is a schematic diagram of the actuator blocking the first connection port in some embodiments (the second connection port is not shown);
[0047] Figure 17 is a schematic diagram of the actuator disengaging from the first connection port in some embodiments (the second connection port is not shown).
[0048] Reference numerals: Main body 1000, first connecting port 1001, second connecting port 1002, third connecting port 1003, feeding port 1004, 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, drive mechanism 3000, power source 3100, output gear 3200, gear section 3210, elastic element 4000.
[0049] 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
[0050] 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.
[0051] 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.
[0052] 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.
[0053] 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.
[0054] The first aspect of this application provides a dispensing device. As shown in Figures 1 to 7, in some embodiments, the dispensing device includes a main body 1000 and an actuator 2000. The main body 1000 is provided with a storage cavity 1100 and a dispensing cavity 1200. The storage cavity 1100 is used to contain detergent, which is in a liquid state. The actuator 2000 is used to control the detergent to enter the dispensing cavity 1200 from the storage cavity 1100 and to control the detergent entering the dispensing cavity 1200 to be dispensed into the washing cavity of the washing appliance.
[0055] Specifically, taking the application of a dispensing device in a washing machine as an example, or in other words, the washing machine includes a dispensing device. The washing chamber of the washing machine is used to load the target object for washing. At a certain stage of the washing process, it is necessary to control the dispensing device to dispense detergent into the washing chamber. In this embodiment, the main body 1000 of the dispensing device has a storage chamber 1100 and a dispensing chamber 1200. The storage chamber 1100 is used to hold detergent; that is, before detergent needs to be dispensed into the washing chamber, the detergent is stored in the storage chamber 1100. When detergent needs to be dispensed into the washing chamber, the actuator 2000 controls the detergent to enter the dispensing chamber 1200 from the storage chamber 1100, and then controls the detergent in the dispensing chamber 1200 to be dispensed into the washing chamber. It is understood that the storage chamber 1100 will store a relatively large amount of detergent. How to ensure that the amount of detergent dispensed into the washing chamber each time has a significant impact on the washing effect; too little or too much detergent is not conducive to washing.
[0056] In this embodiment, the actuator 2000 first controls the detergent to enter the dispensing chamber 1200 and then dispenses it into the washing chamber. Since the volume of the dispensing chamber 1200 is constant, the amount of detergent entering the dispensing chamber 1200 each time is constant, which also ensures that the amount of detergent dispensed into the washing chamber each time is constant, thereby minimizing the difference in the amount of detergent dispensed each time.
[0057] For example, the volume of the dispensing chamber 1200 is designed to correspond to the amount of detergent dispensed at one time. During the first dispensing, the actuator 2000 controls the detergent to enter the dispensing chamber 1200 from the storage chamber 1100, and then controls all the detergent entering the dispensing chamber 1200 to be dispensed into the washing chamber. During the second dispensing, the actuator 2000 controls the detergent to enter the dispensing chamber 1200 from the storage chamber 1100, and then controls all the detergent entering the dispensing chamber 1200 to be dispensed into the washing chamber. The amount dispensed in the first dispensing is almost the same as the amount dispensed in the second dispensing, and so on. By setting the number of dispensing times according to actual needs, the amount of detergent dispensed each time can be ensured.
[0058] The detergent is a liquid detergent. Its main function 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.
[0059] Referring to Figures 1 to 7 and Figures 9 to 10, in some embodiments, the main body 1000 is further provided with a first connecting port 1001 and a second connecting port 1002. The first connecting port 1001 connects the storage cavity 1100 and the dispensing cavity 1200, and the second connecting port 1002 connects the dispensing cavity 1200. Detergent can enter the dispensing cavity 1200 from the storage cavity 1100 through the first connecting port 1001, and the detergent entering the dispensing cavity 1200 can flow out through the second connecting port 1002 and be dispensed into the washing cavity.
[0060] The actuator 2000 needs to cooperate with the first connection port 1001 and the second connection port 1002 to dispensing detergent. When detergent dispensing is not required, the actuator 2000 blocks the first connection port 1001 and disconnects from the second connection port 1002, so that the detergent in the storage chamber 1100 cannot enter the dispensing chamber 1200 through the first connection port 1001. When detergent needs to be added, the actuator 2000 disengages from the first connection port 1001 and blocks the second connection port 1002. Disengagement means opening. Thus, the detergent in the storage chamber 1100 enters the dispensing chamber 1200 through the first connection port 1001. However, because the actuator 2000 blocks the second connection port 1002, the detergent entering the dispensing chamber 1200 cannot flow out through the second connection port 1002. Then, the actuator 2000 switches to blocking the first connection port 1001 and disengaging from the second connection port 1002. At this time, the detergent in the storage chamber 1100 cannot continue to enter the dispensing chamber 1200 through the first connection port 1001. The detergent that has already entered the dispensing chamber 1200 flows out through the second connection port 1002 and is dispensed into the washing chamber. The process of the detergent flowing out from the second connection port 1002 until it is dispensed into the washing chamber can be either direct or indirect entry into the washing chamber. This is not limited in this embodiment.
[0061] Optionally, in some embodiments, the actuator 2000 is configured to reciprocate to cooperate with the first communication port 1001 and the second communication port 1002, simplifying control. Specifically, the actuator 2000 can move along a first direction and a second direction, the first direction being opposite to the second, thus achieving reciprocating movement. When the actuator 2000 moves along the first direction, it disengages from the first communication port 1001 and blocks the second communication port 1002; when the actuator 2000 moves along the second direction, it blocks the first communication port 1001 and disengages from the second communication port 1002.
[0062] For example, the actuator 2000 has a sealing plug 2200 that passes through the second communication port 1002. The sealing plug 2200 has a first sealing part 2210 and a second sealing part 2220, which are located between the first communication port 1001 and the second communication port 1002. When the actuator 2000 moves in a first direction, the first sealing part 2210 and the second sealing part 2220 move accordingly, causing the first sealing part 2210 to disengage from the first communication port 1001 and the second sealing part 2220 to seal the second communication port 1002. When the actuator 2000 moves in a second direction, the first sealing part 2210 and the second sealing part 2220 move accordingly, causing the first sealing part 2210 to seal the first communication port 1001 and the second sealing part 2220 to disengage from the second communication port 1002.
[0063] Referring to Figures 3 to 7 and Figures 13 to 17, 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 communication port 1001 and blocks the second communication port 1002. The disengagement of the actuator 2000 from the first communication port 1001 and the blocking of the second communication port 1002 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.
[0064] Optionally, as shown in Figures 13 to 17, in some embodiments, the drive mechanism 3000 includes an output gear 3200, the output gear 3200 is provided with a toothed portion 3210, the actuator 2000 is provided with a rack portion 2100, and 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.
[0065] 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 communication port 1001 and block the second communication port 1002.
[0066] Referring to Figures 13 to 17, in some embodiments, the toothed portion 3210 is adapted to separate from the rack portion 2100 after the actuator 2000 disengages from the first communication port 1001 and blocks the second communication port 1002. 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 communication port 1001 and disengaging from the second communication port 1002.
[0067] 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 communication port 1001 and block the second communication port 1002. 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 part 3210 meshes with the rack part 2100, thereby driving the actuator 2000 to move along the first direction and disengage from the first communication port 1001 and block the second communication port 1002, detergent enters the dispensing chamber 1200 from the storage chamber 1100 through the first communication port 1001. 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 communication port 1001. The elastic element 4000 undergoes elastic deformation, accumulating elastic potential energy and generating force on the actuator 2000. When the rotation continues 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 port 1001 and disengage from the second connecting port 1002. The detergent that has entered the dispensing chamber 1200 flows out from the second connecting port 1002. 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.
[0068] 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 connection port 1001 and blocking the second connection port 1002. In the second step, the actuator 2000 moves in the second direction, blocking the first connection port 1001 and disengaging from the second connection port 1002. In the third step, the actuator 2000 moves in the first direction, disengaging from the first connection port 1001 and blocking the second connection port 1002. In the fourth step, the actuator 2000 moves in the second direction, blocking the first connection port 1001 and disengaging from the second connection port 1002. 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.
[0069] 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.
[0070] Referring to Figures 4 to 7 and Figures 9 to 12, 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.
[0071] 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. That is, when the washing machine is in the washing process and detergent needs to be added, the actuator 2000 controls the detergent in the second storage chamber 1120 to enter the dispensing chamber 1200, and then controls the detergent in the dispensing chamber 1200 to be dispensed into the washing chamber. During the washing process of the washing machine, and when detergent is not needed, if the actuator 2000 malfunctions, the detergent in the second storage chamber 1120 may leak into the dispensing chamber 1200 and then into the washing chamber. In this state, since the detergent in the second storage chamber 1120 is isolated from the detergent in the first storage chamber 1110, even if all the detergent in the second storage chamber 1120 leaks into the dispensing chamber 1200 and eventually enters the washing chamber, the detergent in the first storage chamber 1110 will not enter the second storage chamber 1120 and leak. This reduces the amount of leakage when detergent leakage occurs due to a malfunction of the dispensing device.
[0072] Taking the main body 1000 with a first connecting port 1001 and a second connecting port 1002 as an example, the first connecting port 1001 connects the second storage chamber 1120 and the dispensing chamber 1200. During a single opening and closing of the door, 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 port 1001 and disengages from the second connecting port 1002. If the actuator 2000 does not seal the first connecting port 1001 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 port 1002 at this time, the detergent that leaks into the dispensing chamber 1200 flows out through the second connecting port 1002 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 will not 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.
[0073] Understandably, when the actuator 2000 disengages from the first connection port 1001 and blocks the second connection port 1002, the detergent in the second storage chamber 1120 flows into the dispensing chamber 1200 through the first connection port 1001. To facilitate smoother flow of detergent into the dispensing chamber 1200, in this embodiment, the main body 1000 is provided with a vent (not shown in the figure), which is connected to the dispensing chamber 1200. When the detergent flows into the dispensing chamber 1200, the gas inside the dispensing chamber 1200 can be discharged through the vent, maintaining pressure balance and allowing the detergent to enter the dispensing chamber 1200 more smoothly. The position of the vent can be set according to actual conditions; for example, the vent can be connected to the top of the dispensing chamber 1200, thus preventing detergent from overflowing from the vent when entering the dispensing chamber 1200.
[0074] Referring to Figures 9 and 11, in some embodiments, a third communication port 1003 is provided between the first storage cavity 1110 and the second storage cavity 1120. The third communication port 1003 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 communication port 1003. The first storage chamber 1110 and the second storage chamber 1120 are connected by a third connecting port 1003. When the door is open, 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 port 1003, 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 port 1003, 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 port 1003.
[0075] 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 port 1003 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 port 1003. In this state, since the detergent level in the first storage chamber 1110 is higher, the detergent can pass through the third connecting port 1003 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 port 1003 into the second storage chamber 1120 when the door is open.
[0076] 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 port 1003, and the highest point of the detergent level in the second storage chamber 1120 is lower than the lowest point of the third connecting port 1003. In this state, since the lowest point of the third connecting port 1003 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 port 1003, and the detergent in the first storage chamber 1110 cannot enter the second storage chamber 1120 through the third connecting port 1003, thus isolating the detergent in the second storage chamber 1120 from the detergent in the first storage chamber 1110.
[0077] 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 port 1003 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 port 1003, 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 port 1003. At this point, both the second and first storage chambers 1120 contain detergent.
[0078] Referring to Figures 9, 11, and 12, 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.
[0079] Referring to Figures 8 and 9, 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 opening 1003. 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 port 1003. 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.
[0080] Referring to Figure 12, 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.
[0081] 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.
[0082] 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.
[0083] 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.
[0084] 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 decreases to a certain level. This ensures a consistent detergent dispensing rate during the first few uses of the dishwasher. Understandably, the amount of detergent in the first storage chamber 1110 can be monitored by a detection device to remind the user to replenish it in time. For example, the amount of detergent entering the second storage chamber 1120 is consistent during the first 20 door openings and closings, but decreases during the 21st door opening and closing. This ensures a consistent detergent dispensing rate during the first 20 uses, and an alarm can be triggered on the 21st use to remind the user to replenish the detergent.
[0085] Referring to Figures 9 and 10, in some embodiments, the volume of the second storage chamber 1120 is greater 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.
[0086] Referring to Figures 1 and 2, in some embodiments, the main body 1000 is further provided with a feeding port 1004, which communicates with the first storage chamber 1110 to facilitate the replenishment of detergent into the first storage chamber 1110 through the feeding port 1004. 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 1004. 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 1004.
[0087] 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, which includes a main body 1000 and an actuator 2000. The main body 1000 is provided with a storage cavity 1100 and a dispensing cavity 1200. The storage cavity 1100 is used to contain detergent, which is in liquid state. The actuator 2000 is used to control the detergent to enter the dispensing cavity 1200 from the storage cavity 1100 and to control the detergent entering the dispensing cavity 1200 to be dispensed into the washing cavity of the washing appliance.
[0088] By designing the dispensing chamber 1200, detergent can be pre-controlled to enter the dispensing chamber 1200 before being added to the washing chamber. The dispensing chamber 1200 ensures that the amount of detergent added to the washing chamber remains constant each time, guaranteeing washing effectiveness. It is understood that the dispensing device of the washing appliance in this embodiment adopts the technical solution of the above embodiment, and therefore possesses at least the beneficial effects brought by the technical solution of the above embodiment, which will not be repeated here.
[0089] 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, The dispensing device includes: The main body (1000) is provided with a storage cavity (1100) and a dispensing cavity (1200), the storage cavity (1100) being adapted to contain a liquid detergent; and An actuator (2000) is adapted to control detergent to enter the dispensing chamber (1200) from the storage chamber (1100) and to control the detergent entering the dispensing chamber (1200) to be dispensed into the washing chamber of the washing appliance.
2. The dispensing device as described in claim 1, wherein, The main body (1000) is also provided with a first communication port (1001) and a second communication port (1002). The first communication port (1001) connects the storage cavity (1100) and the dispensing cavity (1200), and the second communication port (1002) connects the dispensing cavity (1200). The actuator (2000) is adapted to block the second connection port (1002) when disengaging from the first connection port (1001) so that detergent enters the dispensing chamber (1200) from the storage chamber (1100) through the first connection port (1001), and is also adapted to disengage from the second connection port (1002) when blocking the first connection port (1001) so that detergent entering the dispensing chamber (1200) flows out through the second connection port (1002) and is dispensed into the washing chamber.
3. The dispensing device as described in claim 2, wherein, The actuator (2000) is configured to reciprocate, and the actuator (2000) is adapted to disengage from the first communication port (1001) and block the second communication port (1002) when moving in a first direction, and the actuator (2000) is adapted to block the first communication port (1001) and disengage from the second communication port (1002) when moving in a second direction, the second direction being opposite to the first direction.
4. The dispensing device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, The dispensing device is suitable for installation on the door of the washing appliance, and is vertically installed when the door is closed and horizontally installed when the door is open. The storage chamber (1100) includes a first storage chamber (1110) and a second storage chamber (1120) that are connected to each other. When the door is in the open state, detergent is adapted to enter the second storage chamber (1120) from the first storage chamber (1110). When the door is switched from the open state to the closed state, the first storage chamber (1110) and the second storage chamber (1120) respectively retain detergent, and the detergent in the first storage chamber (1110) and the detergent in the second storage chamber (1120) are isolated from each other. The actuator (2000) is adapted to control the detergent in the second storage chamber (1120) to enter the dispensing chamber (1200).
5. The dispensing device as described in claim 4, wherein, A third communication port (1003) is provided between the first storage cavity (1110) and the second storage cavity (1120). The third communication port (1003) 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 communication port (1003).
6. The dispensing device as described in claim 5, wherein, When the door is in the open state, the highest point of the detergent level in the first storage chamber (1110) is higher than the lowest point of the third connecting port (1003) and the lowest point of the second storage chamber (1120), so that the detergent is suitable to enter the second storage chamber (1120) from the first storage chamber (1110) through the third connecting port (1003).
7. The dispensing device as described in claim 5 or 6, wherein, When the door is in the open state, the highest point of the detergent level in the first storage chamber (1110) is lower than the lowest point of the third connecting port (1003), and the highest point of the detergent level in the second storage chamber (1120) is lower than the lowest point of the third connecting port (1003).
8. The dispensing device according to any one of claims 4 to 7, wherein, A partition (1370) is provided between the first storage cavity (1110) and the second storage cavity (1120), the partition (1370) being adapted to isolate the detergent in the first storage cavity (1110) and the detergent in the second storage cavity (1120) when the door is closed.
9. The dispensing device according to any one of claims 4 to 8, wherein, The volume of the first storage cavity (1110) is greater than the volume of the second storage cavity (1120).
10. The dispensing device according to any one of claims 4 to 9, wherein, The volume of the second storage cavity (1120) is greater than the volume of the delivery cavity (1200).
11. The dispensing device according to any one of claims 4 to 10, wherein, The main body (1000) is also provided with a feeding port (1004), which is connected to the first storage cavity (1110) to be adapted to add detergent to the first storage cavity (1110) through the feeding port (1004).
12. The dispensing device according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein, The main body (1000) is also provided with a vent, which is connected to the delivery chamber (1200).
13. A washing appliance, wherein, Includes the dispensing device as described in any one of claims 1 to 12.