DETERGENT SUSTAINED-RELEASE DEVICE AND WATER-USING APPARATUS

Abstract

A detergent sustained-release device includes a storage cavity configured to store detergent. The detergent sustained-release device also includes a sustained-release cavity having a variable volume and configured to release the detergent. The detergent sustained-release device also includes a discharging and filling pipe configured to be connected to the sustained-release cavity and connected to an outlet pipe of a water-using control valve of a water-using device. The detergent sustained-release device also includes a channel disposed between the storage cavity and the sustained-release cavity. The detergent sustained-release device also includes a sustained-release control valve disposed in the channel and configured to switch between a closed state and an opened state in response to a volume change of the sustained-release cavity.

Description

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application claims the benefit of priority to: Chinese Patent Application No. 202311379663.4 filed in the Chinese Intellectual Property Office on Oct. 23, 2023, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety; Chinese Patent Application No. 202322850113.8 filed in the Chinese Intellectual Property Office on Oct. 23, 2023, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

FIELD

The present disclosure relates to the technical field of sanitary products and particularly to a detergent sustained-release device and a water-using apparatus.

BACKGROUND

Sanitary products comprise a toilet, a urinal, a basin, a shower device, and so on. Due to the influence of water quality, the shower head and pipeline are prone to producing scale, which blocks outlet holes of the shower head. Due to the influence of water quality, the surface of the basin is also prone to producing scale, which affects the user experience. Due to the influence of water quality, urine, and dirt, the ceramic surfaces and pipelines of toilets and urinals are prone to producing scale and odors.

In the existing art, cleaning methods for sanitary products include manual cleaning and automatic cleaning. The manual cleaning method has a poor user experience, and it is difficult to clean the scale in the pipes through manual cleaning method. The automatic cleaning method comprises installing a detergent release device on the water supply pipeline of the sanitary product.

The detergent release device comprises a housing. The housing includes a cavity for holding a solid detergent or a liquid detergent. The housing also includes a water inlet and a drain outlet, each having a small pore diameter. Usually, the water inlet is provided in an upper portion of the housing, and the drain outlet is provided in a lower portion of the housing. When installed on the sanitary product, the detergent release device is connected to an outlet pipe of a water inlet control valve of the sanitary product. The outlet pipe may accordingly be provided in the form of a venturi or the like. The water inlet is connected to an upstream end of the venturi, and the drain outlet is connected to a downstream end of the venturi. The water pressure at the upstream end of the venturi is greater than the water pressure at the downstream end of the venturi. Thus, a small amount of water may enter the cavity through the water inlet and may mix with the detergent in the cavity, and then a small amount of detergent may enter the outlet pipe from the drain outlet and may finally enter the sanitary product through the outlet pipe to clean the sanitary product.

The detergent release device has the following defects:

During the entire process of using water in the sanitary product, the detergent release device keeps supplying detergent to the sanitary product all the time. Because the detergent is supplied throughout the process of using water, the detergent may be washed away with the water in the early stage. This results in a lot of waste of the detergent. Because the detergent is supplied throughout the process of using water, it is not applicable to the showerheads, washbasins, etc., so as not to affect the user's use.

SUMMARY

The present disclosure aims to overcome the defects in the prior art and provide a detergent sustained-release device and a water-using apparatus that are capable of providing a quantitative or predetermined amount of detergent to the water-using device only during the end period of the water-using process. The detergent sustained-release device and the water-using apparatus may facilitate the determination of the time to refill the detergent and are applicable not only to a toilet, a urinal, but also to a basin, a shower head, etc., so as to expand the range of applicability. The detergent sustained-release device and the water-using apparatus may avoid the waste of the detergent and may enhance the cleaning effect.

According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, a detergent sustained-release device includes a detergent sustained-release machine and a discharging and filling pipe connected to the detergent sustained-release machine. The discharging and filling pipe is configured to be connected to an outlet pipe of a water-using control valve of a water-using device.

The detergent sustained-release machine includes a storage cavity configured to store a detergent and a sustained-release cavity with variable volume for releasing the detergent.

One end of the discharging and filling pipe is connected to the sustained-release cavity,

A channel is provided between the storage cavity and the sustained-release cavity, a sustained-release control valve is assembled in the channel, the sustained-release control valve is configured to switch between a closed state and an opened state with a volume change of the sustained-release cavity.

When the discharging and filling pipe fills the sustained-release cavity with water (e.g., supplies the water to the sustained-release cavity), the volume of the sustained-release cavity gradually increases, the sustained-release control valve is opened, and a portion of the detergent in the storage cavity enters the sustained-release cavity and is mixed with water to form a detergent diluted solution.

When the discharging and filling pipe discharges liquid (e.g., the detergent diluted solution) to the outlet pipe, the volume of the sustained-release cavity gradually decreases and resets, the sustained-release control valve is closed, and the detergent diluted solution in the sustained-release cavity is supplied to the water-using device through the outlet pipe for cleaning the water-using device.

In an embodiment, the sustained-release control valve is slidably assembled in the channel, the sustained-release control valve is connected to a sustained-release cavity bottom of the sustained-release cavity.

The sustained-release cavity bottom may change the volume of the sustained-release cavity through deformation or sliding.

The sustained-release cavity bottom and/or the sustained-release control valve is connected to a resilient reset member configured to drive the sustained-release cavity bottom and/or the sustained-release control valve to reset.

In an embodiment, the sustained-release cavity bottom is a sliding plate or a resilient diaphragm.

In an embodiment, a mounting cavity is provided below the sustained-release cavity, and the resilient reset member is mounted in the mounting cavity.

In an embodiment, a breathing hole is provided in a cavity wall of the mounting cavity.

In an embodiment, a guiding column is provided in the mounting cavity, and the sustained-release control valve is slidably connected to the guiding column.

In an embodiment, a guiding hole with a downward opening is provided in the sustained-release control valve, and the guiding column is configured to be inserted into the guiding hole.

In an embodiment, an annular recess configured to mount the resilient reset member is provided in a lower end portion of the sustained-release control valve.

In an embodiment, the sustained-release control valve includes a holding recess configured to carry the detergent from the storage cavity and/or the channel to the sustained-release cavity.

When the sustained-release control valve is in the closed state, the channel and the sustained-release cavity are in a disconnected state, and the holding recess is in fluid communication with the storage cavity and/or the channel.

When the sustained-release control valve is in the opened state, the channel and the sustained-release cavity are in a communication state, and the holding recess is in fluid communication with the sustained-release cavity.

In an embodiment, the sustained-release control valve includes a valve base and a valve body connected to the valve base.

The holding recess is provided on a side portion of the valve body.

The sustained-release cavity bottom of the sustained-release cavity is connected to the valve base and/or the valve body.

The valve body is in clearance fit with (e.g., engaged with) the channel.

A seal ring is provided on the valve body and/or a wall surface of the channel.

In an embodiment, the seal ring is provided on the wall surface of the channel.

When the sustained-release control valve is in the closed state, the holding recess is above the seal ring and is in fluid communication with the storage cavity and/or the channel.

When the control valve is in opened state, the holding recess is disposed below the seal ring and in fluid communication with the sustained-release cavity.

In an embodiment, the valve body passes through the channel.

When the sustained-release control valve is in the closed state, at least a portion of the holding recess is disposed in the storage cavity.

When the sustained-release control valve is in the opened state, at least a portion of the holding recess is disposed in the sustained-release cavity.

In an embodiment, the seal ring is provided at a lower end portion of the valve body and the holding recess is located above the seal ring.

When the sustained-release control valve is in the closed state, the seal ring closes a channel lower port of the channel.

When the sustained-release control valve is in the opened state, the seal ring moves downwardly away from the channel lower port.

In an embodiment, a cap is provided on a channel upper port of the channel, and a top and/or side of the cap is provided with a cap opening in communication with the channel.

The valve body is located below the cap.

In an embodiment, a plug is provided on an upper end of the valve body, a flow gap is formed between the plug and the wall surface of the channel.

In an embodiment, the sustained-release cavity bottom is sandwiched between the valve base and the valve body.

In an embodiment, a protrusion for pressing against the sustained-release cavity bottom is provided on a top surface of the valve base and a bottom surface of the valve body respectively.

In an embodiment, the holding recess is in a form of one or more arcuate recesses provided on a circumferential surface of the valve body; or the holding recess is in a form of one or more annular recesses provided on a circumferential surface of the valve body.

In an embodiment, a plurality of separating ribs is provided at intervals on a circumferential surface of the valve body, and the separating ribs extend axially along the valve body.

A plurality of the holding recesses is provided between any two adjacent separating ribs.

According to another embodiment of the present disclosure, a water-using apparatus includes a water-using device, a water-using control valve, and a detergent sustained-release device according to any one of preceding embodiments.

The outlet pipe of the water control valve is connected to the water-using device, and the discharging and filling pipe is connected to the outlet pipe.

When the water-using control valve is in the opened state, the discharging and filling pipe is in a state of filling the sustained-release cavity with water, a larger amount of (e.g., most of, a majority of) the water in the outlet pipe is supplied to the water-using device, and a smaller amount of (e.g., a minority of) the water in the outlet pipe is discharged into the sustained-release cavity through the discharging and filling pipe;

When the water-using control valve is in the closed state, the outlet pipe is in a cut-off state, the discharging and filling pipe is in a state of discharging liquid to the outlet pipe, and a detergent diluted solution in the sustained-release cavity is supplied by the outlet pipe to the water-using device for cleaning.

In an embodiment, the water-using device includes a basin, a shower head, a toilet, or a urinal.

By adopting the technical solutions in the embodiments above, the present disclosure has the following beneficial effects.

According to the detergent sustained-release device and a water-using apparatus according to the present disclosure, when the water-using control valve is opened, the outlet pipe supplies water to the water-using device, the water pressure in the outlet pipe is greater than the water pressure in the sustained-release cavity, the discharging and filling pipe is in the filling state, a smaller portion of the water fills the sustained-release cavity through the discharging and filling pipe, the volume of the sustained-release cavity increases, the sustained-release control valve is opened, and a portion of the detergent from the storage cavity enters into the sustained-release cavity to mix with the water and form the detergent diluted solution. When the water-using control valve is closed, the outlet pipe stops supplying water to the water-using device, the water pressure in the sustained-release cavity is greater than the water pressure in the outlet pipe, the discharging and filling pipe is in a discharging state, and the detergent diluted solution in the sustained-release cavity is supplied to the water-using device through the discharging and filling pipe and the outlet pipe for self-cleaning of the water-using device. In this process, the volume of the sustained-release cavity gradually decreases until it is reset to the initial state.

According to the detergent sustained-release device and the water-using apparatus according to the present disclosure, a quantitative or predetermined amount of detergent is only provided during the end period of the water-using process of the water-using device, i.e., the detergent is provided after the water-using control valve is closed. Providing detergent at this time does not affect the user's use of a shower head, a basin and so on. Therefore, the detergent sustained-release device is applicable not only to a toilet, a urinal, but also to a shower head, a basin and so on. This may expand the scope of applications.

According to the detergent sustained-release device and a water-using apparatus according to the present disclosure, because the detergent is only provided during the end period of the water-using process of the water-using device, the waste of the detergent can be effectively avoided.

According to the detergent sustained-release device and a water-using apparatus according to the present disclosure, because the detergent is only provided during the end period of the water-using process of the water-using device, there is no more water to carry the detergent away from the water-using device before the next use, and the detergent has a long retention time. Thus, the detergent can better dissolve scale, stains, and so on. This can enhance the cleaning effect.

The detergent sustained-release device and water-using apparatus according to the present disclosure may control the opening and closing of the sustained-release control valve through the volume change of the sustained-release cavity by adopting a purely mechanical structure without the need for electrical driving. Thus, the cost may be reduced.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

With reference to the drawings, the contents disclosed by the present disclosure should be more easily understood. It should be understood that these drawings are merely used for illustration and are not intended to limit the protection scope of the present disclosure. In the drawings:

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a detergent sustained-release device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 2 is a sectional view of the detergent sustained-release device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 3 is an enlarged view of a mounting portion of a sustained-release control valve in FIG. 2;

FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram of the detergent sustained-release device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure when the detergent sustained-release device is in an initial state;

FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram of the detergent sustained-release device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, in which a sustained-release cavity is filled with water to form a detergent diluted solution;

FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram of the detergent sustained-release device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, in which the detergent diluted solution is discharged into the outlet pipe through the discharging and filling pipe after the water-using control valve is closed;

FIG. 7 is a perspective view of the detergent sustained-release device according to another embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 8 is a perspective view of the detergent sustained-release device shown in FIG. 7, with a mounting bracket;

FIG. 9 is an exploded view of the detergent sustained-release device shown in FIG. 7;

FIG. 10 is a sectional view of the detergent sustained-release device shown in FIG. 7, with the sustained-release control valve in a closed state, wherein a solid detergent may be placed in the storage cavity;

FIG. 11 is a sectional view of the detergent sustained-release device shown in FIG. 7, with the sustained-release control valve in an opened state, wherein a solid detergent may be placed in the storage cavity;

FIG. 12 is a perspective view of a housing of a detergent sustained-release machine in a top-down view;

FIG. 13 is a perspective view of the housing of the detergent sustained-release machine in an upward view;

FIG. 14 is an enlarged schematic view of a cap;

FIG. 15 is a perspective view of the sustained-release control valve assembled with a resilient diaphragm;

FIG. 16 is a perspective view of a seal ring assembled with the sustained-release control valve;

FIG. 17 is a perspective view of the sustained-release control valve in an upward view;

FIG. 18 is an exploded diagram of FIG. 16;

FIG. 19 is a sectional view shown in FIG. 16 along a circumference direction;

FIG. 20 is a perspective view of a water-using apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 21 is a flow chart of a method for supplying detergent diluted solution to a water-using device by using a detergent sustained-release device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 22 is a block diagram of a controller configured to perform the method for supplying detergent diluted solution to a water-using device by using a detergent sustained-release device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; and

FIG. 23 is a block diagram of a system comprising a controller and a water-using apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The specific embodiments of the present disclosure are further described with reference to the drawings hereinafter. Same or equivalent parts are denoted by same reference numerals. It should be noted that the terms “front”, “back”, “left”, “right”, “up” and “down” used in the following description refer to the directions in the drawings, and the terms “inner” and “outer” refer to the directions towards or far away from geometric centers of specific parts respectively.

As shown in FIGS. 1-11 and 20, a detergent sustained-release device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure comprises a detergent sustained-release machine 100 and a discharging and filling pipe 200 connected to the detergent sustained-release machine 100. The discharging and filling pipe 200 is configured to be connected to an outlet pipe 402 of a water-using control valve 400 of a water-using device 500.

The detergent sustained-release machine 100 comprises a storage cavity 3 configured to store a detergent and a sustained-release cavity 4 with variable volume and configured to release the detergent. One end of the discharging and filling pipe 200 is connected to the sustained-release cavity 4.

A channel 61 is provided between the storage cavity 3 and the sustained-release cavity 4. A sustained-release control valve 7 is disposed in the channel 61, and the sustained-release control valve 7 is configured to switch between a closed state and an opened state as a volume of the sustained-release cavity 4 changes.

When the discharging and filling pipe 200 fills the sustained-release cavity 4 with water, the volume of the sustained-release cavity 4 gradually increases, the sustained-release control valve 7 is opened, and a portion of the detergent in the storage cavity 3 enters the sustained-release cavity 4 and is mixed with water to form a detergent diluted solution.

When the discharging and filling pipe 200 discharges liquid to the outlet pipe 402, the volume of the sustained-release cavity 4 gradually decreases and resets, the sustained-release control valve 7 is closed, and the detergent diluted solution in the sustained-release cavity 4 is supplied to the water-using device 500 through the outlet pipe 402 for cleaning.

The present disclosure provides a detergent sustained-release device for providing a detergent to a water-using device 500 configured to clean the water-using device 500. The water-using device 500 may be a toilet, a urinal 501, a basin (washbasin), a showerhead in a bathroom, a basin (sink) in a kitchen, a lavatory in a public area, and the like. The detergent sustained-release device is connected between the water control valve 400 and the water-using device 500. Specifically, the detergent sustained-release device is connected to the outlet pipe 402 of the water control valve 400.

The detergent may be selected according to the actual scenario. For example, a detergent dedicated to cleaning the toilet and urinal 501, a detergent dedicated to cleaning the washbasin, lavatory, and showerhead, a detergent dedicated to cleaning the kitchen sink, or the like may be selected. The detergent may be selected from a solid detergent 300 or a liquid detergent.

The detergent sustained-release device according to the present disclosure comprises the detergent sustained-release machine 100 and the discharging and filling pipe 200. The detergent sustained-release machine 100 is configured to store and release the detergent. The discharging and filling pipe 200 is configured to connect the detergent sustained-release machine 100 to the outlet pipe 402. The discharging and filling pipe 200 is a communication pipe, and the communicating pipe is referred to as the discharging and filling pipe 200 because the discharging and filling pipe 200 has a filling state and a discharging state based on actual water pressure. The detergent sustained-release machine 100 provided by the present disclosure is configured to store and release the detergent.

The housing of the detergent sustained-release machine 100 comprises an upper housing 1 and a lower housing 2. The upper housing 1 and the lower housing 2 may employ threaded connection, and the upper housing 1 and the lower housing 2 can also be formed integrally. A spacer 6 (such as a partition) is disposed between the upper housing 1 and the lower housing 2. A top cover 11 is removably mounted on the top of the upper housing 1, and a bottom cover 21 is connected to the bottom of the lower housing 2. The bottom cover 21 can be formed integrally with the lower housing 2 or can employ removable connection if needed. The storage cavity 3 is formed in the upper housing 1, which is located above the spacer 6 for storing the detergent. The sustained-release cavity 4 is formed in the lower housing 2, which is located below the spacer 6. The volume of the sustained-release cavity 4 is variable, and a sustained-release cavity bottom 41 and/or the sustained-release cavity wall of the sustained-release cavity 4 are movable to achieve volume changes. The sustained-release cavity bottom 41 and/or the sustained-release cavity wall may adopt structures, such as a slide plate, a piston, an resilient diaphragm, a resilient seal, or the like to achieve the volume change. The sustained-release cavity 4 is configured to receive the detergent discharged from the storage cavity 3 and then discharge the detergent diluted solution after the detergent is diluted.

The spacer 6 is provided with the channel 61 that extends vertically to provide communication, and the sustained-release control valve 7 is assembled in the channel 61. The sustained-release control valve 7 may be a mechanical valve or an electronically controlled valve, which is configured to control the delivery of detergent from the storage cavity 3 to the sustained-release cavity 4. When the sustained-release control valve 7 is in a certain position or a certain state, the sustained-release control valve 7 closes the channel 61, and the detergent in the storage cavity 3 cannot be delivered/discharged into the sustained-release cavity 4. This state is called the initial/closed state or the initial/closed position of the sustained-release control valve 7. When the sustained-release control valve 7 is in another position or another state, the sustained-release control valve 7 opens the channel 61 and the detergent in the storage cavity 3 can be delivered/discharged directly into the sustained-release cavity 4, or the sustained-release control valve 7 keeps the channel 61 closed, and the detergent is carried and delivered/discharged into the sustained-release cavity 4 by the sustained-release control valve 7. This state is called the opened state or the opened position of the sustained-release control valve 7.

The opening and closing of the sustained-release control valve 7 is linked to the volume change of the sustained-release cavity 4. In the normal or initial state, the volume of the sustained-release cavity 4 is small and the sustained-release control valve 7 is in the closed state. When water is filled into the sustained-release cavity 4, the volume of the sustained-release cavity 4 increases. When the volume of the sustained-release cavity 4 increases to a certain extent, the sustained-release control valve 7 is opened. If the slow-release control valve 7 employs a mechanical valve, the opening and closing of the sustained-release control valve 7 is completely controlled by the volume change of the sustained-release cavity 4. If the sustained-release control valve 7 employs an electronically controlled valve, a corresponding sensing unit can be configured to monitor the volume change of the sustained-release cavity 4 and then send a signal to the control unit, which controls the opening and closing of the sustained-release control valve 7.

A discharging and filling port 42 is provided on one side of the sustained-release cavity 4, and one end of the discharging and filling pipe 200 is connected to the discharging and filling port 42. The discharging and filling pipe 200 can switch between its discharging and filling states according to the opening and closing of the upstream water-using control valve 400. In an embodiment, the discharging and filling port 42 is connected to the outlet pipe 402 of the upstream water-used control valve 400 via a water pipe (e.g., the discharging and filling pipe 200). When the water-used control valve 400 supplies the water to the water-used device 500, a small portion of the water in the outlet pipe 402 can enter the sustained-release cavity 4 through the discharging and filling port 42. When the water-used control valve 400 stops supplying water to the water-used device 500, i.e., during the end period of the water-using process, the solution mixed with detergent in the sustained-release cavity 4 can also be discharged into the outlet pipe 402 through the discharging and filling port 42 and then can enter the water-used device 500 for cleaning. In use, the discharging and filling port 42 can be directly connected to the outlet pipe 402 or can be connected to the outlet pipe 402 through the discharging and filling pipe 200.

When the upstream water-using control valve 400 is opened, the outlet pipe 402 supplies water to the water-using device 500. At this time, the water pressure of the outlet pipe 402 is greater than the water pressure of the sustained-release cavity 4, so the discharging and filling pipe 200 (or states, functions, and operations of the discharging and filling pipe 200 as described in the present disclosure may also be the states, functions, and operations of the discharging and filling port 42) is in a state of filling the sustained-release cavity 4 with water. A large amount (e.g., larger amount) of water in the outlet pipe 402 is supplied to the water-using device 500, and a small amount (e.g., smaller amount) of the water in the outlet pipe 402 is filled into the sustained-release cavity 4 via the discharging and filling pipe 200. The volume of the sustained-release cavity 4 gradually increases, and the sustained-release control valve 7 is opened as the volume of the sustained-release cavity 4 increases, and a portion of the detergent in the storage cavity 3 enters the sustained-release cavity 4 and then is mixed with the water that enters the sustained-release cavity 4 to form a detergent diluted solution.

After the water-using control valve 400 is closed, the outlet pipe 402 stops supplying water to the water-using device 500, at this time the water pressure in the sustained-release cavity 4 is greater than the water pressure in the outlet pipe 402, and the discharging and filling pipe 200 is in a state of discharging liquid to the outlet pipe 402. The volume of the sustained-release cavity 4 gradually decreases during the process until it is reset to the initial state, and the sustained-release control valve 7 returns to the closed state. When the discharging and filling pipe 200 is in the state of discharging liquid to the outlet pipe 402, the detergent diluted solution in the sustained-release cavity 4 is supplied to the water-using device 500 via the discharging and filling pipe 200 and the outlet pipe 402 for self-cleaning of the water-using device 500.

In summary, in the detergent sustained-release device according to the present disclosure, a detergent is provided during the end period of the water-using process of the water-using device 500, i.e., the detergent sustained-release device starts providing the detergent after the water-using control valve 400 is closed. During the process of using the water-using device 500 by the user, no detergent is discharged, and the detergent sustained-release device does not affect the user's normal use of a shower device, a basin and so on. Therefore, the detergent sustained-release device is applicable not only to a toilet, a urinal, but also to a shower head, a basin and so on. This may expand the scope of applications.

According to the detergent sustained-release device according to the present disclosure, because the detergent is only provided during the end period of the water-using process of the water-using device 500, no detergent is discharged during the early period of the water-using process of the water-using device 500. This can effectively avoid the waste of the detergent.

According to the detergent sustained-release device according to the present disclosure, because the detergent is only provided during the end period of the water-using process of the water-using device 500, there is no more water to carry the detergent away from the water-using device 500 before the user uses the water-using device 500 the next time. Also, the detergent has a long retention time on the water-using device 500. Thus, the detergent can better dissolve scale, stains, and so on. When the water-using device 500 is used again, the water may quickly and smoothly drain away the dissolved dirt on the water-using device 500. Thus, this can enhance the cleaning effect.

In an embodiment, as shown in FIG. 2, the top cover 11 is provided with a refill port 12 in communication with (e.g., in fluid communication with) the storage cavity 3 for refilling the storage cavity 3 with a liquid detergent. A plug cap 13 is assembled in the refill port 12.

The storage cavity 3 stores the liquid detergent. When the sustained-release control valve 7 is switched from the closed state or the closed position to the opened state or the opened position, the liquid detergent in the storage cavity 3 is carried and transported/discharged into the sustained-release cavity 4 by the sustained-release control valve 7, the sustained-release control valve 7 keeps the channel 61 closed, and water in the sustained-release cavity 4 does not enter the storage cavity 3. Thus, diluting the concentration of the liquid detergent in the storage cavity 3 may be avoided.

In an embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 11 and 12, the top cover 11 is removably connected to the upper housing 1 to allow a user to place the solid detergent 300 and add an appropriate amount of water into the storage cavity 3. The solid detergent 300 is dissolved by the water in the storage cavity 3 to form a liquid detergent therein, and the solid detergent 300 may be completely dissolved after a period of time of use.

The storage cavity 3 stores the solid detergent 300. When the sustained-release control valve 7 is switched from the closed state or the closed position to the opened state or the opened position, the liquid detergent in the storage cavity 3 is carried and transported/discharged into the sustained-release cavity 4 by the sustained-release control valve 7, and the sustained-release control valve 7 opens the channel 61, a small amount of water in the sustained-release cavity 4 enters into the storage cavity 3 through the gap between the sustained-release control valve 7 and a wall surface of the channel 61 to refill the water in the storage cavity 3 and dissolve the solid detergent 300.

In an embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 2, 6, 10, and 11, the sustained-release control valve 7 is slidably assembled in the channel 61, and the sustained-release control valve 7 is connected to the sustained-release cavity bottom 41 of the sustained-release cavity 4.

The sustained-release cavity bottom 41 is configured to change the volume of the sustained-release cavity 4 through deformation or sliding.

The sustained-release cavity bottom 41 and/or the sustained-release control valve 7 is connected to a resilient reset member 9 configured to drive the sustained-release cavity bottom 41 and/or the sustained-release control valve 7 to reset.

In this embodiment, the sustained-release control valve 7 is able to ascend and descend in the channel 61 to achieve the switch between the closed state and the opened state.

When the sustained-release control valve 7 is in the closed state, the sustained-release control valve 7 is in a high position in the channel 61, or a portion of the sustained-release control valve 7 extends into the storage cavity 3.

When the sustained-release control valve 7 is in the opened state, the sustained-release control valve 7 is in a low position in the channel 61, or a portion of the sustained-release control valve 7 extends into the sustained-release cavity 4.

A lower end portion of the sustained-release control valve 7 is connected to the sustained-release cavity bottom 41 of the sustained-release cavity 4, and the the sustained-release control valve 7 and the sustained-release cavity 4 may move together.

The volume of the sustained-release cavity 4 may be changed by deforming or sliding the sustained-release cavity bottom 41. When the volume of the sustained-release cavity 4 is reduced to a certain extent, the sustained-release control valve 7 is in the closed state. When the volume of the sustained-release cavity 4 increases to a certain extent, the sustained-release control valve 7 is in the opened state.

The sustained-release cavity bottom 41 can be configured in the following two ways.

The first way: the sustained-release cavity bottom 41 is slidable relative to the lower housing 2 or the spacer 6 to change the volume of the sustained-release cavity 4. In this way, the sustained-release cavity bottom 41 may be a slide plate or a piston, which is slidably and sealingly connected to the lower housing 2.

The second way: the sustained-release cavity bottom 41 of the sustained-release cavity 4 may deform relative to the lower housing 2 or the spacer 6 to change the volume of the sustained-release cavity 4. In this way the sustained-release cavity bottom 41 may adopt an resilient diaphragm or other resilient seal, which is fixedly connected to the lower housing 2.

The resilient reset member 9 is optionally connected to the sustained-release cavity bottom 41 and/or the sustained-release control valve 7 to reset the sustained-release cavity bottom 41 and/or the sustained-release control valve 7. The resilient reset member 9 may optionally be a spring or a resilient sheet.

Specifically, when the water-using control valve 400 is opened, water is filled into the sustained-release cavity 4, and the water pressure overcomes the acting force of the resilient reset member 9 to drive the sustained-release cavity bottom 41 to move downwardly thereby increasing the volume of the sustained-release cavity 4, and the sustained-release control valve 7 is switched from the closed state to the opened state. After the water-using control valve 400 is closed, under the action of the resilient reset member 9, the sustained-release cavity bottom 41 moves upwardly. This may reduce the volume of the sustained-release cavity 4 and may cause the detergent diluted solution in the sustained-release cavity 4 to be discharged. The sustained-release control valve 7 is switched from the opened state to the closed state.

In an embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 2-6 and 9-11, the sustained-release cavity bottom 41 is a slide plate or a resilient diaphragm 411, which is easy to assemble to change the volume of the sustained-release cavity 4.

The slide plate is located below the discharging and filling port 42, the slide plate is slidably connected to the lower housing 2, and a seal ring is assembled between the slide plate and the lower housing 2 for sealing. Desirably, when the sustained-release control valve 7 is in the closed state, a top surface of the slide plate is adjacent to a lower edge of the discharge port 42 to minimize the volume of the sustained-release cavity 4 and to discharge the detergent diluted solution from the sustained-release cavity 4 as much as possible.

The resilient diaphragm 411 is a rubber diaphragm or a silicone diaphragm, its edges are directly fixedly connected to the lower housing 2, and the connected edges of the resilient diaphragm 411 are under the lower edge of the discharging and filling port 42. Desirably, the connected edges of the resilient diaphragm 411 is adjacent to the lower edge of the discharging and filling port 42. During resetting, the volume of the sustained-release cavity 4 may be minimized to discharge the detergent diluted solution from the sustained-release cavity 4 as much as possible.

In an embodiment, as shown in FIG. 4, one end of the discharging and filling pipe 200 is connected to a tee-junction element 201 and configured to be connected to the outlet pipe 402.

In an embodiment, as shown in FIG. 8, the housing of the detergent sustained-release machine 100 is connected to a mounting bracket 10 for mounting and securing. An upper end of the mounting bracket 10 is connected to the upper housing 1, and a lower end of the mounting bracket 10 is connected to the lower housing 2.

In an embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 2-6, 10, and 11, a mounting cavity 5 is located below the sustained-release cavity 4, the resilient reset member 9 is mounted in the mounting cavity 5, and a breathing hole 22 is provided in a cavity wall of the mounting cavity 5.

In this embodiment, the mounting cavity 5 is disposed in the lower housing 2, and the mounting cavity 5 is located below the sustained-release cavity 4. Specifically, the mounting cavity 5 is located below the sustained-release cavity bottom 41.

The resilient reset member 9 is mounted in the mounting cavity 5, a cavity wall of the mounting cavity 5 is a side wall of the lower housing 2, and the breathing hole 22 is provided on the side wall of the lower housing 2. Thus, the breathing hole 22 exchanges air with the outside world when the sustained-release cavity bottom 41 deforms or slides to maintain the balance of the internal air pressure and to ensure the normal movement of the sustained-release cavity bottom 41.

In an embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 9-11, a guiding column 23 is provided in the mounting cavity 5, and the sustained-release control valve 7 is slidably connected to the guiding column 23.

In this embodiment, the guiding column 23 extending upwardly is provided in the mounting cavity 5, and the guiding column 23 is provided at the center of the bottom cover 21. The sustained-release control valve 7 is slidably connected to the guiding column 23, and the guiding column 23 provides guidance for the upward and downward movement of the sustained-release control valve 7.

The resilient reset member 9 may be a spring, and the spring is sleeved onto the guiding column 23. A lower end of the spring is connected to the bottom cover 21 and its upper end is connected to the sustained-release control valve 7.

In an embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 10, 10, 17, and 19, the sustained-release control valve 7 has a guiding hole 70 facing downwards, the guiding column 23 is inserted into the guiding hole 70 to facilitate assembly of the guiding column 23 with the sustained-release control valve 7, the guiding column 23 is in clearance fit with (e.g., engaged with) the guiding hole 70, and the sustained-release control valve 7 may slides up and down relative to the guiding column 23.

In an embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 10, 11, 17, and 19, an annular recess 712 is provided at the lower end portion of the sustained-release control valve 7. The annular recess 712 is configured to mount the resilient reset member 9 and facilitate the connection of the upper end of the resilient reset member 9 to the lower end of the sustained-release control valve 7.

Specifically, the annular recess 712 is provided on a bottom surface of a valve base 71 of the sustained-release control valve 7.

In an embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 2-6, 10, and 11, the sustained-release control valve 7 comprises a holding recess 73 configured to carry a detergent from the storage cavity 3 and/or the channel 61 to the sustained-release cavity 4.

When the sustained-release control valve 7 is in the closed state, the channel 61 and the sustained-release cavity 4 are in a disconnected state, and the holding recess 73 is in communication with (e.g., in fluid communication with) the storage cavity 3 and/or the channel 61.

When the sustained-release control valve 7 is in the opened state, the channel 61 and the sustained-release cavity 4 are in a communication state, and the holding recess 73 is in communication with (e.g., in fluid communication with) the sustained-release cavity 4.

The sustained-release control valve 7 is configured to move up and down as the volume of the sustained-release cavity 4 changes so as to make the holding recess 73 in communicate with (e.g., in fluid communication with) the storage cavity 3/or the channel 61 and also make the holding recess 73 in communicate with (e.g., in fluid communication with) the sustained-release cavity 4.

In the normal or initial state, the sustained-release control valve 7 is closed and the holding recess 73 is in communication with (e.g., in fluid communication with) the storage cavity 3 or the channel 61. When the channel 61 is disconnected or closed from the storage cavity 3 by the sustained-release control valve 7 as in the normal state, at least a portion of the holding recess 73 is located in the storage cavity 3, and the detergent in the storage cavity 3 enters the holding recess 73. When the channel 61 is in communication with the storage cavity 3 as in the normal state, the holding recess 73 is located in the channel 61, and the detergent in the channel 61 will enter the holding recess 73.

After the sustained-release cavity bottom 41 is deformed or slid to increase the volume of the sustained-release cavity 4, the sustained-release control valve 7 declines and is opened, the holding recess 73 is in communication with (e.g., in fluid communication with) the sustained-release cavity 4, and the detergent carried by the holding recess 73 enters the sustained-release cavity 4 and is mixed with the water in the sustained-release cavity 4 to form a detergent diluted solution. Desirably, at least a portion of the holding recess 73 is located in the sustained-release cavity 4 when the holding recess 73 is in communication with the sustained-release cavity 4.

In this embodiment, the sustained-release control valve 7 configured with the holding recess 73 functions like an elevator and carries a quantitative or predetermined amount of detergent into the sustained-release cavity 4 each time.

In this embodiment, the sustained-release control valve 7 employs purely mechanical structure, without employing electrical drive,. Thus, the costs may be reduced.

In an embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 2-6, 9-11, and 16-19, the sustained-release control valve 7 comprises a valve base 71 and a valve body 72 connected to the valve base 71.

The holding recess 73 is provided on a side portion of the valve body 72. The sustained-release cavity bottom 41 of the sustained-release cavity 4 is connected to the valve base 71 and/or the valve body 72. The valve body 72 is in clearance fit with (e.g., engaged with) the channel 61. A seal ring 8 is provided on the valve body 72 and/or the wall surface of the channel 61.

In an embodiment, the sustained-release control valve 7 comprises the valve base 71 and the valve body 72, the valve body 72 is connected to the valve base 71, and the holding recess 73 is provided on a circumferential surface of the valve body 72. If needed, a plurality of holding recesses 73 may be provided on the side portion of the valve body 72 to increase the amount of detergent carried in a single time.

As shown in FIG. 3, the valve body 72 is integrally connected to the valve base 71, and the guiding hole 70 is provided in the valve base 71 and the valve body 72. The valve base 71 is divided into an upper valve base and a lower valve base, and the sustained-release cavity bottom 41 is sandwiched between the upper valve base and lower valve base.

As shown in FIGS. 18 and 19, the valve body 72 is removably connected to the valve base 71. The guiding hole 70 is provided in the valve base 71 and the valve body 72. Specifically, the valve base 71 is provided with a connecting sleeve 711, the connecting sleeve 711 is provided with external threads, the lower section of the guiding hole 70 of the valve body 72 is provided with internal threads, the connecting sleeve 711 is threadedly connected in the guiding hole 70 of the valve body 72, and the sustained-release cavity bottom 41 is sandwiched between the valve body 72 and the valve base 71. The connecting sleeve 711 also passes through a positioning hole of the sustained-release cavity bottom 41 for a more stable connection.

When the detergent sustained-release device is assembled, the valve body 72 passes through the channel 61 or is in clearance fit with (e.g., engaged with) the channel 61 and is sealed by the seal ring 8. The seal ring 8 may be mounted on the wall surface of the channel 61 or on the circumferential surface of the valve body 72.

When the sustained-release control valve 7 is in the closed state, the valve body 72 is in a raised position (high position) in the channel 61, the holding recess 73 is located above the seal ring 8, the entire holding recess 73 is disposed in the channel 61 or at least a portion of the holding recess 73 is disposed in the storage cavity 3, and the detergent enters the holding recess 73.

When the sustained-release control valve 7 is in the opened state, the valve body 72 is in a lower position (low position) in the channel 61, the holding recess 73 is lowered below the seal ring 8 or the seal ring 8 leaves a channel lower port 611 of the channel 61, and the holding recess 73 is in communication with (e.g., in fluid communication with) the sustained-release cavity 4, or at least a portion of the holding recess 73 is located in the sustained-release cavity 4, and the holding recess 73 carries the detergent into the sustained-release cavity 4.

In an embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 2-6, the seal ring 8 is provided on the wall surface of the channel 61.

When the sustained-release control valve 7 is in the closed state, the holding recess 73 is disposed above the seal ring 8 and is in communication with (e.g., in fluid communication with) the storage cavity 3 and/or the channel 61.

When the sustained-release control valve 7 is in the opened state, the holding recess 73 is disposed below the seal ring 8 and in communication with (e.g., in fluid communication with) the sustained-release cavity 4.

In this embodiment, the seal ring 8 is fixed mounted on the wall surface of the channel 61, and a recess may be provided on the wall surface of the channel 61 and configured to mount the seal ring 8. The valve body 72 moves up and down relative to the seal ring 8.

When the sustained-release control valve 7 is in the closed state, the valve body 72 moves upward to an initial position, the entire holding recess 73 is located above the seal ring 8, the holding recesses 73 may be located in the storage cavity 3 or in the channel 61, and the detergent in the storage cavity 3 or in the channel 61 enters and is stored in the holding recesses 73.

When the sustained-release control valve 7 is in the opened state, the valve body 72 moves downwards to the opened position, and at least a portion of the holding recess 73 is disposed below the seal ring 8, the holding recess 73 is in communication with (e.g., in fluid communication with) the sustained-release cavity 4, and the detergent enters the sustained-release cavity 4.

In this embodiment, due to the sealing effect of the seal ring 8, substantially, water in the sustained-release cavity 4 does not enter the storage cavity 3 through the channel 61, and the storage cavity 3 desirably employs a liquid detergent, which is not diluted by the water in the sustained-release cavity 4. The liquid detergent discharged from the storage cavity 3 each time is also substantially quantitative or predetermined.

In an embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 2-6, the valve body 72 passes through the channel 61.

When the sustained-release control valve 7 in the closed state, at least a portion of the holding recess 73 is disposed in the storage cavity 3.

When the sustained-release control valve 7 is in the opened state, at least a portion of the holding recess 73 is disposed in the sustained-release cavity 4.

In this embodiment, the length of the valve body 72 is greater than the length of the channel 61, and when the sustained-release control valve 7 is in the closed state, the upper end of the valve body 72 extends into the storage cavity 3 and carries at least a portion of the holding recess 73 into the storage cavity 3 to hold the detergent so as to dissolve the detergent. Desirably, the entire holding recess 73 enters the storage cavity 3.

When the sustained-release control valve 7 is in the opened state, the lower end of the valve body 72 extends into the sustained-release cavity 4 and carries at least a portion of the holding recess 73 into the sustained-release cavity 4 to release the detergent directly into the sustained-release cavity 4. Desirably, the entirety of the holding recess 73 enters the sustained-release cavity 4.

In an embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 10 and 11, the seal ring 8 is provided at a lower end portion of the valve body 72, and the holding recess 73 is located above the seal ring 8.

When the sustained-release control valve 7 is in the closed state, the seal ring 8 closes a channel lower port 611 of the channel 61.

When the sustained-release control valve 7 is in the opened state, the seal ring 8 moves downwards and leaves away from the channel lower port 611.

In this embodiment, the seal ring 8 is provided on a circumferential surface of the lower end portion of the valve body 72. Specifically, an assembly groove 723 is provided on the circumferential surface of the lower end portion of the valve body 72, and the seal ring 8 is assembled in the assembly groove 723 and configured to seal the channel lower port 611 of the channel 61.

When the sustained-release control valve 7 is in the closed state, the valve body 72 is moved upwards to the initial position, the seal ring 8 closes the channel lower port 611, the holding recess 73 is located in the channel 61, a channel upper port of the channel 61 is in communication with (e.g., in fluid communication with) the storage cavity 3, and the detergent flows into the channel 61 and into the holding recess 73.

When the sustained-release control valve 7 is in the opened state, the valve body 72 moves downwards and drives the seal ring 8 to move downwards and leave away from the channel lower port 611, and the holding recess 73 is in communication with (e.g., in fluid communication with) the sustained-release cavity 4, or at least a portion of the holding recess 73 enters the sustained-release cavity 4, and the detergent in the holding recess 73 flows into the sustained-release cavity 4. Meanwhile, due to the high water pressure in the sustained-release cavity 4, a small amount of water in the sustained-release cavity 4 flows into the storage cavity 3 through the gap between the wall surface of the channel 61 and the valve body 72. The small amount of water on one hand serves to replenish water and on the other hand prevents the detergent in the storage cavity 3 from flowing directly into the sustained-release cavity 4 through the channel 61.

In this embodiment, the storage cavity 3 desirably employs the solid detergent 300. The channel lower port 611 is opened and closed by the seal ring 8. When the sustained-release control valve 7 is opened, a small amount of water in the sustained-release cavity 4 enters the storage cavity 3 through the channel 61. The small amount of water serves to replenish the water and avoids the inability to dissolve the solid detergent 300 due to the lack of water in the storage cavity 3. The amount of replenishment water is controlled by the water pressure in the sustained-release cavity 4 and the size of the gap between the wall surface of the channel 61 and the valve body 72.

In an embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 10-12 and 14, the cap 61 is provided on the channel upper port of the channel 61, and a top and/or side of the cap 62 is provided with a cap opening 621 in communication with (e.g., in fluid communication with) the channel 61. The valve body 72 is located below the cap 62.

In this embodiment, the cap 62 is disposed at the upper end of the channel 61 and disposed in the storage cavity 3 to cover the channel upper port. The top and/or side of the cap 62 is provided with a cap opening 621 that is in communication with (e.g., in fluid communication with) the channel 61 and allows detergent to flow downwards and supplementary water to enter the storage cavity 3.

In this embodiment, by configuring the cap 62 with the cap opening 621, the flow rate of the detergent into the channel 61 can be limited. When the sustained-release control valve 7 is opened, a small amount of water in the sustained-release cavity 4 can smoothly break through the resistance of the detergent in the channel 61, which in turn leads to backwash of some of the detergent back (e.g., pushes the detergent back) into the storage cavity 3. Thus, the loss or waste of the detergent is reduced.

The terms “small amount,” “smaller amount,” “large amount,” and “larger amount” of water used in the present disclosure do not necessarily have fixed amounts. The “small amount” and “smaller amount” are relative to “large amount” and “larger amount.”

In an embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 10-12 and 19, a plug 721 is provided on an upper end of the valve body 72, a flow gap is formed between the plug 721 and the wall surface of the channel 61.

In this embodiments, by providing the plug 721 at the upper end of the valve body 72, the gap between the valve body 72 and the wall surface of the channel 61 is reduced to control the flowrate of the detergent. When the sustained-release control valve 7 is in the closed state, the plug 721 enters the cap 62 and is in contact with a top plate of the cap 62, and the cap 62 prevents the valve body 72 from continuing to move upwards and thus plays a limiting role.

In an embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 10 and 11, the sustained-release cavity bottom 41 is sandwiched between the valve base 71 and the valve body 72.

In this embodiment, the valve base 71 is provided with a connecting sleeve 711. The connecting sleeve 711 is provided with external threads, and the lower section of the guiding hole 70 of the valve body 72 is provided with internal threads. The connecting sleeve 711 is threadedly connected to the guiding hole 70 of the valve body 72, and the connecting sleeve 711 also passes through the positioning hole of the sustained-release cavity bottom 41. The sustained-release cavity bottom 41 is sandwiched between the valve body 72 and the valve base 71 for a more stable connection.

In an embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 18 and 19, a protrusion 74 configured to press against the sustained-release cavity bottom 41 is provided on a top surface of the valve base 71 and a bottom surface of the valve body 72 respectively.

The protrusion 74 may be a convex ring provided on the top surface of the valve base 71 and on the bottom surface of the valve body 72 respectively for clamping the sustained-release cavity bottom 41. The protrusion 74 is desirably a rubber protrusion, which is resilient and reduces wear and tear on the sustained-release cavity bottom 41.

Desirably, a plurality of protrusions 74 is provided on the top surface of the valve base 71 and on the bottom surface of the valve body 72 respectively, and the protrusions 74 on the top surface of the valve base 71 are staggered with the protrusions 74 on the bottom surface of the valve body 72 to catch the sustained-release cavity bottom 41.

In an embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 3 and 16, the holding recess 73 is in a form of one or more arcuate recesses provided on the circumferential surface of the valve body 72. Alternatively, the holding recess 73 is in a form of one or more annular recesses provided on the circumferential surface of the valve body 72.

In this embodiment, the holding recess 73 may be an arcuate recess or be an annular recess. A plurality of annular recesses and/or arcuate recesses may be provided vertically at intervals on the circumferential surface of the valve body 72, or a plurality of arcuate recesses may be configured at intervals along the circumferential direction on the circumferential surface of the valve body 72 to increase the amount of detergent carried in a single time.

In an embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 16-19, a plurality of separating ribs 722 is provided at intervals on the circumferential surface of the valve body 72, and the separating ribs 722 extend axially along the valve body 72. A plurality of the holding recesses 73 is provided between any two adjacent separating ribs 722.

In this embodiment, the holding recesses 73 employ arcuate recesses, a plurality of separating ribs 722 extending axially is provided at intervals on the circumferential surface of the valve body 72, a plurality of holding recesses 73 is provided between every two of the separating ribs 722, and the separating ribs 722 protrudes out from the groove opening of the holding recesses 73. Thus, the interference between adjacent holding recesses 73 in the circumferential direction may be minimized.

Desirably, the holding recesses 73 are located deep inside the two separating ribs 722. Assuming that the length of the separating ribs 722 along the radial direction is D, the distance between the groove opening of the holding recesses 73 and the outer peripheral surface of the separating ribs 722 is greater than or equal to D/2. With this arrangement, when the sustained-release control valve 7 is opened, a small amount of water in the sustained-release cavity 4 enters into the channel 61, and the separating rib 722 may prevent or slow down the entry of water into the holding recess 73 in order to reduce the amount of detergent carried away by the water. It can be ensured that a large amount of detergent in the holding recess 73 is not carried away by the water, so that the detergent can flow into the sustained-release cavity 4.

As shown in FIG. 20, one embodiment of the present disclosure also provides a water-using apparatus. The water-using apparatus comprises a water-using device 500, a water-using control valve 400, and a detergent sustained-release device according to any one of preceding embodiments.

The outlet pipe 402 of the water-using control valve 400 is connected to the water-using device 500, and the discharging and filling pipe 200 is connected to the outlet pipe 402.

When the water control valve 400 is in the opened state, the discharging and filling pipe 200 is in a state of filling water into the sustained-release cavity 4, most of the water in the outlet pipe 402 is supplied to the water-using device 500, and a small portion of the water in the outlet pipe 402 is filled into the sustained-release cavity 4 through the discharging and filling pipe 200.

When the water control valve 400 is in the closed state, the outlet pipe 402 is in a water cut-off state, the discharging and filling pipe 200 is in a state of discharging liquid to the outlet pipe 402, and a detergent diluted solution in the sustained-release cavity 4 is supplied by the outlet pipe 402 to the water-using device 500 for cleaning.

The water-using apparatus according to the present disclosure is a toilet apparatus, a urinal apparatus, a basin apparatus, a showerhead apparatus, and the like used in a kitchen, a bathroom or in a public place.

The water-using apparatus comprises a water-using control valve 400, a water-using device 500, and a detergent sustained-release device as previously described. For the structure, construction and working principle of the detergent sustained-release device, the preceding descriptions of the detergent sustained-release device are incorporated herein and are omitted herein.

The water inlet pipe 401 of the water-using control valve 400 is connected to the water supply pipe of the building. The water-using device 500 is a water-using terminal of a water-using apparatus, for example, a toilet, a urinal, a shower head, a sink, a basin, or the like.

The outlet pipe 402 of the water-using control valve 400 is connected to the water-using device 500. The water-using control valve 400 may be a mechanical valve or an automatic sensor valve.

One end of the discharging and filling pipe 200 is connected to the outlet pipe 402. Specifically, one end of the discharging and filling pipe may be connected to the outlet pipe 402 through the tee-junction element 201.

The water-used control valve 400 is normally in a closed state. When the water-used device 500 needs to use water, the water-used control valve 400 opens, the discharging and filling pipe 200 starts to fill water into the sustained-release cavity 4, most of the water in the outlet pipe 402 is supplied to the water-used device 500, and a small portion of the water in the outlet pipe 402 is filled into the sustained-release cavity 4 through the discharging and filling pipe 200. The volume of the sustained-release cavity 4 gradually increases, and the sustained-release control valve 7 is opened as the volume of the sustained-release cavity 4 increases, and a portion of the detergent in the storage cavity 3 enters the sustained-release cavity 4 and then is mixed with the water that enters the sustained-release cavity 4 to form a detergent diluted solution.

After the user finishes using the water-using device 500, the water-using control valve 400 is closed, the outlet pipe 402 stops supplying water to the water-using device 500, the water pressure in the sustained-release cavity 4 is greater than the water pressure in the outlet pipe 402, and the discharging and filling pipe 200 is in a state of discharging liquid to the outlet pipe 402. The volume of the sustained-release cavity 4 gradually decreases during the process until the sustained-release cavity 4 is reset to the initial state, and the sustained-release control valve 7 returns to the closed state. When the discharging and filling pipe 200 is in the state of discharging liquid to the outlet pipe 402, the detergent diluted solution in the sustained-release cavity 4 is supplied to the water-using device 500 via the discharging and filling pipe 200 and the outlet pipe 402 for self-cleaning of the water-using device 500.

According to the water-using apparatus according to the present disclosure, a detergent is only provided by the detergent sustained-release device during the end period of the water-using process of the water-using device 500. In other words, the detergent sustained-release device only starts supplying the detergent after the water-using control valve 400 is closed. During the use of the water-using device 500 by the user, no detergent is discharged, and the detergent sustained-release device does not affect the user's use of a shower device, a basin and so on. Therefore, the detergent sustained-release device is applicable not only to a toilet, a urinal, but also to a shower head, a basin and so on. This may expand the scope of applications. According to the water-using apparatus according to the present disclosure, because the detergent is only provided by the detergent sustained-release device during the end period of the water-using process of the water-using device 500, no detergent is discharged during the early period of the water-using process of the water-using device 500. This can effectively avoid the waste of the detergent.

According to the water-using apparatus according to the present disclosure, because the detergent is only provided by the detergent sustained release device during the end period of the water-using process of the water-using device 500, there is no more water to carry the detergent away from the water-using device 500 before the user uses the water-using device 500 again. Also, the detergent has a long retention time on the water-using device 500. Thus, the detergent can better dissolve scale, stains, and so on. When the water-water-using device 500 is used next time, the water may quickly and smoothly wash away the dissolved dirt on the water-using device 500. Thus, this can enhance the cleaning effect.

In an embodiment, as shown in FIG. 7, the water-using device 500 comprises a basin, a shower head, a toilet, a urinal 501 or etc. and thus has a wide range of applications.

When the water-using device 500 comprises a toilet, the water-using control valve 400 may be a drain valve of the toilet, and the outlet pipe 402 may be a flushing pipe connected between the drain valve and the ceramic body of the toilet. After the water tank is drained, the detergent sustained-release device starts to discharge a quantitative or predetermined amount of detergent into the ceramic body of the toilet, the detergent is discharged through the flushing pipe of the toilet, the detergent dissolves the dirt on the ceramic body. When the water tank is drained next time, the dissolved material on the ceramic body can be carried away smoothly. This has a good cleaning effect.

When the water-using device 500 comprises a urinal, the water-using control valve 400 can be the control valve around the urinal 501, which may be an automatic sensing valve. After the user has finished using the urinal and a single draining and flushing is about to be completed, the detergent sustained-release device starts discharging a quantitative or predetermined amount of detergent into the ceramic body of the urinal, and the detergent is discharged through the nozzle of the urinal and dissolves the dirt on the ceramic body. When the water outlet pipe 402 drains the water the next time, the dissolved material on the ceramic body can be carried away smoothly. This has a good cleaning effect.

When the water-using device 500 comprises a basin or a sink, the water-using control valve 400 may be a faucet valve of the basin or the sink, and the outlet pipe 402 may be a water pipe connected between the faucet valve and the faucet nozzle. After the user has finished using the basin or sink, the faucet valve is closed, and the detergent sustained-release device starts discharging a quantitative or predetermined amount of detergent into the basin or sink, and the detergent is discharged through the faucet nozzle. A specialized nozzle may be optionally provided to expand the spray area, and the detergent dissolves the dirt on the basin or sink. When the user uses the basin or sink next time, the water can smoothly wash away dissolved substances from the basin or sink, and this has a good cleaning effect. When the water-using device 500 comprises the basin or sink, the user can choose a detergent that meets the health and safety standards, for example, a food detergent. The user can also pre-rinse the basin or sink before the next use. Because the basin or sink is cleaned after each use, the amount of detergent discharged each time can be set to a very small amount and the pre-rinse time is very short.

When the water-using device 500 comprises a shower head, the water-using control valve 400 may be a showerhead valve, and the outlet pipe 402 may be a water pipe connected between the showerhead valve and the showerhead. According to the actual need, the discharging and filling pipe 200 of the detergent sustained-release device may be connected near the showerhead so that the detergent can be smoothly discharged into the showerhead. After the user has finished using the shower head, the shower valve is closed, the detergent sustained-release device starts discharging a predetermined amount of detergent, and the detergent dissolves the stains, scale and the like in the water pipe and the showerhead. When the user uses the shower device next time, the water can smoothly wash away dissolved substances from the water pipe and showerhead. This has a good cleaning effect.

In an embodiment, the toilet in the above embodiments may include a base (e.g., a pedestal, a bowl, etc.) and a tank. The base is configured to be attached to another object such as a drainpipe, floor, or another suitable object. The base includes a bowl, a sump (e.g., a receptacle) disposed below the bowl, and a trapway fluidly connecting the bowl to a drainpipe or sewage line. The tank may be supported by the base, such as an upper surface of a rim. The tank may be integrally formed with the base as a single unitary body. In other embodiments, the tank may be formed separately from the base and coupled (e.g., attached, secured, fastened, connected, etc.) to the base. The toilet may further include a tank lid covering an opening and inner cavity in the tank. The toilet may include a seat assembly including a seat and a seat cover rotatably coupled to the base. The toilet arrangement may further include a hinge assembly.

In another embodiment, the toilet arrangement may be a tankless toilet. The toilet arrangement includes a base and a seat assembly coupled to the base. The base includes a bowl, a sump disposed below the bowl, and a trapway fluidly connecting the bowl to a drainpipe or sewage line. The toilet arrangement includes a waterline that supplies the toilet with water. The toilet may further include a seat assembly including a seat and a seat cover rotatably coupled to the base. The toilets described above are provided herein as non-limiting examples of toilets that may be configured to utilize aspects of the present disclosure.

In some examples, a bidet may be included in a seat or pedestal of a toilet. In other examples, the bidet may be manufactured separately from and attached or coupled to a seat or pedestal of a toilet. The bidet includes a housing. The housing is configured to receive a flow of water through a housing inlet and dispense the flow of water from a housing outlet. The housing inlet and housing outlet may be located on opposite ends of the housing from one another, such that water may flow through the housing from the housing inlet to the housing outlet. In some examples, the housing further includes a chamber. As the housing receives the flow of water, the chamber may fill with water and provide a flow of water between the housing inlet and the housing outlet. The chamber may be configured to contain the flow of water and direct the flow of water from the housing inlet to the housing outlet. After the chamber has filled with water, the flow of water may travel along a substantially linear path between the housing inlet and the housing outlet. In some examples, one or more walls within the housing may be included to help direct a flow of water between the housing inlet and the housing outlet. The bidet may further include a housing inlet conduit configured to direct a flow of water to the housing inlet. The housing inlet conduit may be coupled to a water supply such as tank or waterline. The housing may further include a gear assembly or a portion of the gear assembly. The bidet may be a front wash bidet for female users and may use, generate, and/perform the functions related to nanobubbles, ozonated water, eWater, hydrogen peroxide generation, pH Control, template assisted crystallization, application of polyphosphates, filtration (ultrafiltration, nanofiltration, microfiltration, carbon/GAC), fluidic oscillating sprays, and adding other consumables in the water stream. For nanobubbles, air, ozone, oxygen, hydrogen, and carbon dioxide may be used.

An embodiment of the present disclosure further provides a method for supplying detergent diluted solution to a water-using device by using a detergent sustained-release device. FIG. 21 is a flow chart of a method for supplying detergent diluted solution to a water-using device by using a detergent sustained-release device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Here, the method uses the detergent sustained-release device according to any of the embodiments of the present disclosure. The water-using device in the method may be the water-using device of the water-using apparatus according to any of the embodiments of the present disclosure. The descriptions regarding the detergent sustained-release device, the water-using device, and the water-using apparatus as described in the present disclosure are incorporated herein. The detergent sustained-release device, the water-using device, and the water-using apparatus are configured to perform an operation, function, or the like as described in the present disclosure.

At act S101, in response to an opening of the water-using control valve 400, the outlet pipe 402 supplies a larger portion of the water in the outlet pipe 402 of the water-using control valve 400 to the water-using device 500, and the discharging and filling pipe 200 of the detergent sustained-release device discharges a smaller portion of the water in the outlet pipe 402 into the sustained-release cavity 4 of the detergent sustained-release device to form detergent diluted solution.

Specifically, as described above, when the upstream water-using control valve 400 is opened, the outlet pipe 402 supplies water to the water-using device 500. At this time, the water pressure of the outlet pipe 402 is greater than the water pressure of the sustained-release cavity 4, so the discharging and filling pipe 200 is in a state of filling the sustained-release cavity 4 with water. A large amount (e.g., larger amount) of water in the outlet pipe 402 is supplied to the water-using device 500, and a small amount (e.g., smaller amount) of the water in the outlet pipe 402 is filled into the sustained-release cavity 4 via the discharging and filling pipe 200. The volume of the sustained-release cavity 4 gradually increases, and the sustained-release control valve 7 is opened as the volume of the sustained-release cavity 4 increases, and a portion of the detergent in the storage cavity 3 enters the sustained-release cavity 4 and then is mixed with the water that enters the sustained-release cavity 4 to form a detergent diluted solution.

At act S102, in response to a closing of the water-using control valve, the discharging and filling pipe supplies the detergent diluted solution in the sustained-release cavity to the outlet pipe, and the outlet pipe discharges the detergent diluted solution into the water-using device for cleaning.

Specifically, as described above, after the water-using control valve 400 is closed, the outlet pipe 402 stops supplying water to the water-using device 500, at this time the water pressure in the sustained-release cavity 4 is greater than the water pressure in the outlet pipe 402, and the discharging and filling pipe 200 is in a state of discharging liquid to the outlet pipe 402. The volume of the sustained-release cavity 4 gradually decreases during the process until it is reset to the initial state, and the sustained-release control valve 7 returns to the closed state. When the discharging and filling pipe 200 is in the state of discharging liquid to the outlet pipe 402, the detergent diluted solution in the sustained-release cavity 4 is supplied to the water-using device 500 via the discharging and filling pipe 200 and the outlet pipe 402 for self-cleaning of the water-using device 500.

An embodiment of the present disclosure further provides a controller configured to perform the method for supplying detergent diluted solution to a water-using device by using a detergent sustained-release device. FIG. 22 is a block diagram of a controller configured to perform the method for supplying detergent diluted solution to a water-using device by using a detergent sustained-release device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The method herein may be the method as shown in FIG. 21. The descriptions regarding the method, the detergent sustained-release device, the water-using device, and the water-using apparatus as described in the present disclosure are incorporated herein. The method, the detergent sustained-release device, the water-using device, and the water-using apparatus are configured to perform an operation, function, or the like as described in the present disclosure.

As shown in FIG. 22, a controller 600 comprises a processor 610, a communication unit 620 communicably connected to the processor 610, and a storage 630 communicably connected to the processor 610.

The controller 600 in the present disclosure can be implemented by any appliances or by any software or applications run by the appliances. The controller 600 may be connected to a workstation or another external device (e.g., control panel, remote) and/or a database for receiving user inputs, system characteristics, and any of the values described herein. Optionally, the controller 600 may include an input device and/or a sensing circuit in communication with any of the sensors. The sensing circuit receives sensor measurements from as described above. Optionally, the controller 600 may include a drive unit for receiving and reading non-transitory computer media having instructions. Additional, different, or fewer components may be included.

The processor 610 is configured to perform instructions stored in memory for executing the algorithms described herein 610. The processor 610 may be a general purpose or specific purpose processor, an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), one or more programmable logic controllers (PLCs), one or more field programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), a group of processing components, or other suitable processing components. The processor 610 is configured to execute computer code or instructions stored in memory or received from other computer readable media (e.g., embedded flash memory, local hard disk storage, local ROM, network storage, a remote server, etc.). The processor 610 may be a single device or combinations of devices, such as associated with a network, distributed processing, or cloud computing.

The communication unit 620 may include any operable connection, ingress ports, and egress ports. An operable connection may be one in which signals, physical communications, and/or logical communications may be sent and/or received. An operable connection may include a physical interface, an electrical interface, and/or a data interface. The communication unit 620 may be connected to a network. The network may include wired networks (e.g., Ethernet), wireless networks, or combinations thereof. The wireless network may be a cellular telephone network, an 802.11, 802.16, 802.20, or WiMax network, a Bluetooth pairing of devices, or a Bluetooth mesh network. Further, the network may be a public network, such as the Internet, a private network, such as an intranet, or combinations thereof, and may utilize a variety of networking protocols now available or later developed including, but not limited to TCP/IP based networking protocols.

In an embodiment, the storage 630 may include one or more devices (e.g., memory units, memory devices, storage devices, etc.) for storing data and/or computer code for completing and/or facilitating the various processes described in the present disclosure. The storage 630 may include random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), hard drive storage, temporary storage, non-volatile memory, flash memory, optical memory, or any other suitable memory for storing software objects and/or computer instructions. The storage 630 may include database components, object code components, script components, or any other type of information structure for supporting the various activities and information structures described in the present disclosure. The storage 630 may be communicably connected to processor via a processing circuit and may include computer code for executing (e.g., by processor) one or more processes described herein. For example, the storage 630 may include graphics, web pages, HTML files, XML files, script code, shower configuration files, or other resources for use in generating graphical user interfaces for display and/or for use in interpreting user interface inputs to make command, control, or communication decisions.

An embodiment of the present disclosure further provides a system comprising a controller and a water-using apparatus. FIG. 23 is a block diagram of a system comprising a controller and a water-using apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The descriptions regarding the controller, the detergent sustained-release device, the water-using device, and the water-using apparatus as described in the present disclosure are incorporated herein. The controller, the detergent sustained-release device, the water-using device, and the water-using apparatus are configured to perform an operation, function, or the like as described in the present disclosure.

As shown in FIG. 23, a system 700 comprises a controller 600 and a water-using apparatus 800. The water-using apparatus 800 in the system 700 may be the water-using apparatus according to any of the embodiments of the present disclosure.

Specifically, as described above, the water-using apparatus 800 comprises a water-using control valve 400, a water-using device 500, and a detergent sustained-release device as previously described. The detergent sustained-release device comprises a sustained-release control valve 7 configured to switch between a closed state and an opened state as a volume of the sustained-release cavity 4 changes.

The controller 600 is communicably coupled to the water-using control valve 400, the water-using device 500, and/or the sustained-release control valve 7 of the water-using apparatus 800.

The above technical solutions may be combined as required to achieve the best technical effect.

The above descriptions are merely intended to describe the principle and the embodiments of the present disclosure. It should be pointed out that, for those having ordinary skill in the art, other modifications may be made based on the principle of the present disclosure, which should also be regarded as falling in the protection scope of the present disclosure.

Claims

1-42. (canceled)

43. A detergent sustained-release device, comprising: a storage cavity configured to store detergent; anda sustained-release cavity having a variable volume and configured to release the detergent;a discharging and filling pipe configured to be connected to the sustained-release cavity and connected to an outlet pipe of a water-using control valve of a water-using device;a channel disposed between the storage cavity and the sustained-release cavity; anda sustained-release control valve disposed in the channel and configured to switch between a closed state and an opened state in response to a volume change of the sustained-release cavity.

44. The detergent sustained-release device according to claim 43, wherein: when the discharging and filling pipe supplies water to the sustained-release cavity, the variable volume of the sustained-release cavity increases, the sustained-release control valve is opened, and at least a portion of the detergent in the storage cavity enters the sustained-release cavity and is mixed with the water to form a detergent diluted solution, andwhen the discharging and filling pipe discharges the detergent diluted solution to the outlet pipe, the variable volume of the sustained-release cavity decreases, the sustained-release control valve is closed, and the detergent diluted solution in the sustained-release cavity is supplied to the water-using device through the outlet pipe for cleaning the water-using device.

45. The detergent sustained-release device according to claim 44, wherein the sustained-release control valve is slidably disposed in the channel, wherein the sustained-release control valve is configured to be connected to a sustained-release cavity bottom of the sustained-release cavity,wherein the sustained-release cavity bottom is configured to change the variable volume of the sustained-release cavity through deformation or sliding, andwherein the sustained-release cavity bottom or the sustained-release control valve is configured to be connected to a resilient reset member configured to drive the sustained-release cavity bottom or the sustained-release control valve to reset.

46. The detergent sustained-release device according to claim 45, wherein the sustained-release cavity bottom comprises a sliding plate or a resilient diaphragm.

47. The detergent sustained-release device according to claim 45, further comprising: a mounting cavity disposed below the sustained-release cavity, the mounting cavity configured to house the resilient reset member.

48. The detergent sustained-release device according to claim 47, further comprising: a breathing hole disposed in a cavity wall of the mounting cavity.

49. The detergent sustained-release device according to claim 47, further comprising: a guiding column disposed in the mounting cavity,wherein the sustained-release control valve is slidably connected to the guiding column.

50. The detergent sustained-release device according to claim 49, further comprising: a guiding hole having a downward opening configured to be disposed in the sustained-release control valve,wherein the guiding column is configured to be inserted into the guiding hole.

51. The detergent sustained-release device according to claim 47, further comprising: an annular recess configured to mount the resilient reset member and disposed in a lower end portion of the sustained-release control valve.

52. The detergent sustained-release device according to claim 45, wherein the sustained-release control valve comprises: a holding recess configured to carry the detergent from the storage cavity or the channel to the sustained-release cavity.

53. The detergent sustained-release device according to claim 52, wherein: when the sustained-release control valve is in the closed state, the channel is not in fluid communication with the sustained-release cavity, and the holding recess is in fluid communication with the storage cavity or the channel, andwhen the sustained-release control valve is in the opened state, the channel is in fluid communication with the sustained-release cavity, and the holding recess is in fluid communication with the sustained-release cavity.

54. The detergent sustained-release device according to claim 53, wherein the sustained-release control valve further comprises: a valve base; anda valve body configured to be connected to the valve base,wherein the holding recess is disposed on a side portion of the valve body,wherein the sustained-release cavity bottom of the sustained-release cavity is configured to be connected to the valve base or the valve body,wherein the valve body is configured to be engaged with the channel, andwherein the detergent sustained-release device further comprises a seal ring disposed on the valve body or a wall surface of the channel.

55. The detergent sustained-release device according to claim 54, wherein the seal ring is configured to be disposed on the wall surface of the channel, wherein when the sustained-release control valve is in the closed state, the holding recess is disposed above the seal ring and is in fluid communication with the storage cavity or the channel, andwherein when the sustained-release control valve is in the opened state, the holding recess is disposed below the seal ring and in fluid communication with the sustained-release cavity.

56. The detergent sustained-release device according to claim 55, wherein the valve body is configured to pass through the channel, wherein when the sustained-release control valve is in the closed state, at least a portion of the holding recess is disposed in the storage cavity, andwherein when the sustained-release control valve is in the opened state, at least a portion of the holding recess is disposed in the sustained-release cavity.

57. The detergent sustained-release device according to claim 54, wherein the seal ring is configured to be disposed at a lower end portion of the valve body, wherein the holding recess is disposed above the seal ring,wherein when the sustained-release control valve is in the closed state, the seal ring closes a channel lower port of the channel, andwherein when the sustained-release control valve is in the opened state, the seal ring moves downwards and leaves away from the channel lower port.

58. The detergent sustained-release device according to claim 57, further comprising: a cap configured to be disposed on a channel upper port of the channel,wherein a cap opening is disposed on a top portion or a side portion of the cap and in fluid communication with the channel, andwherein the valve body is configured to be disposed below the cap.

59. The detergent sustained-release device according to claim 54, wherein the sustained-release cavity bottom is configured to be sandwiched between the valve base and the valve body.

60. A water-using apparatus, comprising: a water-using device;a water-using control valve comprising an outlet pipe configured to be connected to the water-using device;a storage cavity configured to store detergent; anda sustained-release cavity having a variable volume and configured to release the detergent;a discharging and filling pipe configured to be connected to the sustained-release cavity and connected to the outlet pipe of the water-using control valve;a channel disposed between the storage cavity and the sustained-release cavity; anda sustained-release control valve disposed in the channel and configured to switch between a closed state and an opened state in response to a volume change of the sustained-release cavity,wherein when the water-using control valve is in an opened state, a larger portion of water in the outlet pipe is supplied to the water-using device, and a smaller portion of the water in the outlet pipe is discharged into the sustained-release cavity through the discharging and filling pipe to form detergent diluted solution, andwherein when the water-using control valve is in a closed state, the outlet pipe is in a cut-off state, the discharging and filling pipe supplies the detergent diluted solution in the sustained-release cavity to the outlet pipe, and the outlet pipe discharges the detergent diluted solution into the water-using device for cleaning.

61. The water-using apparatus according to claim 60, wherein the water-using device comprises a basin, a shower head, a toilet, or a urinal, wherein when the discharging and filling pipe supplies the water to the sustained-release cavity, the variable volume of the sustained-release cavity increases, the sustained-release control valve is opened, and at least a portion of the detergent in the storage cavity enters the sustained-release cavity and is mixed with the water to form the detergent diluted solution, andwherein when the discharging and filling pipe discharges the detergent diluted solution to the outlet pipe, the variable volume of the sustained-release cavity decreases, the sustained-release control valve is closed, and the detergent diluted solution in the sustained-release cavity is supplied to the water-using device through the outlet pipe for cleaning the water-using device.

62. A method for supplying detergent diluted solution to a water-using device by using a detergent sustained-release device, the method comprising: in response to an opening of a water-using control valve, suppling a larger portion of water in an outlet pipe of the water-using control valve to the water-using device through the outlet pipe, and discharging a smaller portion of the water in the outlet pipe into a sustained-release cavity of the detergent sustained-release device through a discharging and filling pipe of the detergent sustained-release device to form detergent diluted solution; andin response to a closing of the water-using control valve, suppling the detergent diluted solution in the sustained-release cavity to the outlet pipe through the discharging and filling pipe, and discharging the detergent diluted solution into the water-using device for cleaning through the outlet pipe,wherein forming the detergent diluted solution comprising: increasing a variable volume of the sustained-release cavity to trigger an opening of a sustained-release control valve of the detergent sustained-release device; andin response to the opening of the sustained-release control valve, allowing at least a portion of the detergent in a storage cavity of the detergent sustained-release device to enter the sustained-release cavity to be mixed with the water to form the detergent diluted solution.