CN115867394A - Ultrasonic cleaning device and washing machine - Google Patents

Abstract

The invention provides an ultrasonic cleaning device capable of restraining the temperature rise of an ultrasonic generator. The ultrasonic cleaning device is provided with: a water storage barrel capable of storing water; an ultrasonic wave generator (110) for generating ultrasonic waves which act on an object to be cleaned immersed in water in the water storage tub; a power supply unit (800) that supplies power to the ultrasonic wave generator (110); and a temperature controller (700) disposed around the ultrasonic generator (110). The temperature controller (700) is disposed on a supply line (801) for supplying power from a power supply unit (800) to the ultrasonic wave generator (110). The power supply unit (800) stops power supply to the ultrasonic wave generator (110) when the temperature controller (700) detects a predetermined temperature.

Description

Ultrasonic cleaning device and washing machine Technical Field

The present invention relates to an ultrasonic cleaning device and a washing machine provided with the ultrasonic cleaning device.

Background

Patent document 1 describes a washing machine in which an ultrasonic cleaning device is disposed around a laundry inlet of an upper panel, for example, in front of the laundry inlet. The ultrasonic cleaning device is provided with: a water storage barrel capable of storing water; and an ultrasonic wave generating unit having an ultrasonic wave generator located directly above the water storage tank. A dirt adhering portion of an object to be cleaned is placed in a water storage tank in which water is stored, and a cleaning operation is started. Ultrasonic energy generated by the ultrasonic generator acts on the dirt-adhering portion into which water has permeated, to peel off the dirt.

The ultrasonic generator may generate heat by its operation, and the temperature may rise. During the washing operation, the user's hand may contact the ultrasonic wave generator. Therefore, it is desirable that the ultrasonic cleaning apparatus is configured so that the temperature of the ultrasonic generator does not increase much during the cleaning operation.

Documents of the prior art

Patent document

Patent document 1: japanese patent laid-open publication No. 2018-68435

Disclosure of Invention

Problems to be solved by the invention

Accordingly, an object of the present invention is to provide an ultrasonic cleaning device and a washing machine that can suppress a temperature rise of an ultrasonic generator.

Means for solving the problems

A first aspect of the present invention relates to an ultrasonic cleaning apparatus. The ultrasonic cleaning device of this scheme possesses: a water storage barrel capable of storing water; an ultrasonic generator for generating ultrasonic waves which act on an object to be cleaned immersed in water in the water storage tub; a power supply unit for supplying power to the ultrasonic generator; and a temperature detection unit disposed around the ultrasonic generator. Wherein the power supply unit stops supplying power to the ultrasonic wave generator when the temperature detection unit detects a predetermined temperature.

According to the ultrasonic cleaning apparatus of this aspect, the temperature rise of the ultrasonic generator can be suppressed.

In the ultrasonic cleaning apparatus of this aspect, the temperature detection unit may include a temperature controller disposed on a supply line for supplying power from the power supply unit to the ultrasonic wave generator.

According to the above configuration, when the temperature controller detects a predetermined temperature, the supply line is cut off by the temperature controller, and the power supply unit stops supplying power to the ultrasonic generator.

In the ultrasonic cleaning apparatus according to the present aspect, the temperature detection unit holding portion may be further provided. In this case, the surface of the temperature detection unit facing the ultrasonic wave generator may be spaced apart from the ultrasonic wave generator in a state where the temperature detection unit is held by the holding unit.

According to the above configuration, the vibration of the ultrasonic generator is less likely to propagate to the temperature detection unit, and the temperature detection unit can be prevented from being broken or damaged.

In the case of adopting the structure including the holding portion as described above, the following structure may be adopted: the holding portion exposes the opposing surfaces of the temperature detection portion.

With such a configuration, heat from the ultrasonic wave generator is easily transmitted to the temperature detection unit, and the temperature of the ultrasonic wave generator is easily detected in a satisfactory manner.

In the case of the structure including the holding portion as described above, the structure may further include: a housing accommodating the ultrasonic generator; and a fixing member for fixing the ultrasonic generator in the housing. In this case, the holding portion may be provided to the fixing member.

With this configuration, the temperature detector can be easily disposed around the ultrasonic generator by the fixing member.

A second aspect of the present invention relates to a washing machine. The washing machine of this scheme possesses: an outer tub capable of storing water; an inner tub disposed in the outer tub and accommodating laundry; and the ultrasonic cleaning device of the first aspect.

With the above configuration, the same effect as the ultrasonic cleaning apparatus according to the first aspect can be obtained.

Effects of the invention

According to the present invention, an ultrasonic cleaning device and a washing machine can be provided that can suppress a temperature rise of an ultrasonic generator.

The effects and significance of the present invention will be further clarified by the following description of the embodiments. However, the following embodiments are merely examples for carrying out the present invention, and the present invention is not limited to the contents described in the following embodiments.

Drawings

Fig. 1 is a side sectional view of a full automatic washing machine of an embodiment.

Fig. 2 is a schematic diagram showing the structure of the water supply unit according to the embodiment.

Fig. 3 (a) is a perspective view of the ultrasonic cleaning apparatus and the upper panel in the operating position of the ultrasonic cleaning unit and the water storage unit according to the embodiment. Fig. 3 (b) and (c) are perspective views of the ultrasonic cleaning apparatus and the main part of the upper panel in the standby position of the ultrasonic cleaning unit and the water storage unit according to the embodiment.

Fig. 4 is a perspective view of the ultrasonic cleaning apparatus according to the embodiment with the water reservoir removed.

Fig. 5 is a side sectional view of the ultrasonic cleaning unit and the main body unit according to the embodiment.

Fig. 6 is a perspective view of the inverted water storage unit of the embodiment.

Fig. 7 is a side cross-sectional view of the ultrasonic cleaning apparatus, the storage tank, the supply valve, the supply nozzle, and the drain receiving portion in the case where the ultrasonic cleaning portion and the water storage portion of the embodiment are located at the standby position.

Fig. 8 is a side cross-sectional view of the ultrasonic cleaning device, the storage tank, the supply valve, the supply nozzle, and the drain receiving portion in the embodiment when the ultrasonic cleaning portion and the water storage portion are at the operation position.

Fig. 9 is a perspective view of the storage tank, the supply valve, and the supply nozzle of the embodiment.

Fig. 10 (base:Sub>A) isbase:Sub>A perspective view showingbase:Sub>A state where the fixing member of the embodiment passes through the upper portion of the ultrasonic generator, and fig. 10 (b) isbase:Sub>A sectional view taken along linebase:Sub>A-base:Sub>A' of fig. 10 (base:Sub>A) of the embodiment. Fig. 10 (c) is a perspective view of the fixing member of the embodiment.

Fig. 11 (a) is a block diagram showing a configuration for supplying power to an ultrasonic generator according to the embodiment. Fig. 11 (b) is a block diagram showing a configuration for supplying power to the ultrasonic wave generator in a case where a thermistor is used according to a modification.

Fig. 12 (a) to (c) are views for explaining the decontamination of the object to be cleaned by the ultrasonic cleaning apparatus according to the embodiment.

Description of the reference numerals

1: full automatic washing machines (washing machines); 20: an outer tub; 22: a washing and dehydrating tub (inner tub); 50: an ultrasonic cleaning device; 100: an ultrasonic cleaning section; 110: an ultrasonic generator; 120: a housing; 180: a fixing member; 190: a holding section; 200: a water storage part; 210: a water storage barrel: 700: a temperature controller (temperature detection unit); 701: front (opposite) surfaces; 800: a power supply unit; 801: a supply line.

Detailed Description

Hereinafter, an embodiment of a washing machine according to the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

Fig. 1 is a side sectional view of a fully automatic washing machine 1.

The fully automatic washing machine 1 includes a casing 10 having an outer contour. The case 10 includes: a square tubular body part 11 with an open upper and lower surface, an upper panel 12 covering the upper surface of the body part 11, and a footstool 13 supporting the body part 11. An inlet 14 for laundry is formed in the upper panel 12. The inlet 14 is covered with an openable and closable upper cover 15. A control unit 16 is disposed inside the front portion of the upper panel 12. The control unit 16 is constituted by a microcomputer or the like, and controls the washing operation of the fully automatic washing machine 1 and the washing operation of the ultrasonic washing device 50 described later.

An outer tub 20 having an open upper surface is elastically suspended and supported in the cabinet 10 by four suspension rods 21 having a vibration-proof device. A washing and dewatering tub 22 having an open upper surface is disposed in the outer tub 20. The washing and spin-drying tub 22 rotates about a rotation axis extending in the vertical direction. A plurality of dewatering holes 22a are formed in the inner circumferential surface of the washing and dewatering tub 22 over the entire circumference. A balancing ring 23 is provided at the upper part of the washing and dehydrating tub 22. A pulsator 24 is disposed at the bottom of the washing and dehydrating tub 22. A plurality of blades 24a are radially provided on the surface of the pulsator 24. The washing and spin-drying tub 22 corresponds to an "inner tub" of the present invention.

A driving unit 30 generating a torque to drive the washing and dehydrating tub 22 and the pulsator 24 is disposed at an outer bottom of the outer tub 20. The drive unit 30 includes a drive motor 31 and a transmission mechanism portion 32. The transmission mechanism unit 32 has a clutch mechanism 32a, and by a switching operation by the clutch mechanism 32a, the torque of the drive motor 31 is transmitted to only the pulsator 24 to rotate only the pulsator 24 in the washing process and the rinsing process, and the torque of the drive motor 31 is transmitted to the pulsator 24 and the washing and dewatering tub 22 to rotate the pulsator 24 and the washing and dewatering tub 22 integrally in the dewatering process.

A drain port 20a is formed at an outer bottom of the outer tub 20. A drain valve 40 is provided in the drain port portion 20a. The drain valve 40 is connected to a drain hose 41. When the drain valve 40 is opened, the water accumulated in the washing and dehydrating tub 22 and the outer tub 20 is discharged to the outside of the machine through the drain hose 41.

A overflow hole 20b is formed at an upper portion of the outer tub 20. When water is stored in the outer tub 20 at a predetermined overflow level or higher, the water is discharged from the overflow port 20b. An overflow receiving portion 25 is provided on an outer surface of the outer tub 20 so as to cover the overflow vent 20b. One end of an overflow pipe 26 is connected to the bottom of the overflow water receiving portion 25. The other end of the overflow pipe 26 is connected to a drain hose 41. The water discharged from the overflow port 20b is received by the overflow receiving portion 25 and flows through the overflow pipe 26 to the drain hose 41.

An ultrasonic cleaning device 50 is disposed substantially at the center of the rear portion of the upper panel 12. The ultrasonic cleaning device 50 mainly performs a cleaning operation for removing sebum dirt adhering to the cuff or collar portion of a shirt, oil dirt adhering to work clothes, and other dirt adhering to a part of an object to be cleaned before the full-automatic washing machine 1 performs washing.

A storage tank 60 is disposed behind the ultrasonic cleaning apparatus 50 at the rear of the upper panel 12, and a drain receiver 70 is disposed below the ultrasonic cleaning apparatus 50. The storage tank 60 stores therein water containing detergent to be supplied to the water storage tub 210 of the ultrasonic cleaning apparatus 50. Hereinafter, the water containing the detergent is referred to as "washing water".

The drain receiving portion 70 receives water drained from the water storage tub 210. The drain receiving portion 70 is formed with a drain hole 71 through which the received water is drained. One end of a drain pipe 72 is connected to the drain hole 71. The other end of the drain pipe 72 is connected to the upper portion of the overflow pipe 26.

A water supply unit 80 for supplying tap water into the washing and dehydrating tub 22 is disposed at the rear of the upper panel 12.

Fig. 2 is a schematic diagram showing the structure of the water supply unit 80.

The water supply unit 80 has a water supply valve 81. The water supply valve 81 is a so-called double valve having a main valve 82 and a sub valve 83 as electromagnetic valves. The water inlet 81a of the water supply valve 81 is connected to a faucet through a water supply hose not shown. A main water supply line 84 is connected to an outlet of the main valve 82 of the water supply valve 81. The main water supply path 84 has a water inlet 84a located at an upper portion of the washing and dehydrating tub 22.

The water supply unit 80 includes an automatic supply mechanism 90 for automatically supplying a liquid detergent, which is a kind of liquid for washing, into the washing and dehydrating tub 22. The automatic loading mechanism 90 also has a function of supplying washing water to the storage tank 60.

The automatic loading mechanism 90 includes: a detergent box 91, a supply pipe 92, a first three-way valve 93, a sub-water supply path 94, a supply pump 95, a detergent supply path 96, a second three-way valve 97, and a washing water supply path 98. The automatic charging mechanism 90 further includes a sub-valve 83 of the water supply valve 81.

The liquid detergent is stored in the detergent box 91 in a stock solution state. The supply pipe 92 guides the liquid detergent of the detergent box 91 to one inlet of the first three-way valve 93.

The sub water supply passage 94 is connected to an outlet of the sub valve 83 and an inlet of the other of the first three-way valves 93.

A supply pump 95 is connected to an outlet of the first three-way valve 93, and a detergent supply path 96 is connected to the supply pump 95. The detergent supply path 96 has a supply port 96a located at an upper portion of the washing and dehydrating tub 22. The supply pump 95 can be a piston pump, for example.

The first three-way valve 93 is switchable between a state in which the supply pipe 92 and the supply pump 95 are communicated and a state in which the sub water supply passage 94 and the supply pump 95 are communicated.

The detergent supply path 96 is provided with a second three-way valve 97. An upstream supply path 96b of the detergent supply path 96 is connected to an inlet of the second three-way valve 97, and a downstream supply path 96c of the detergent supply path 96 is connected to one outlet of the second three-way valve 97. Further, one end of a wash water supply line 98 is connected to the other outlet of the second three-way valve 97. The other end of the wash water supply line 98 is connected to the storage tank 60.

The second three-way valve 97 can be switched between a state in which the upstream-side supply path 96b and the downstream-side supply path 96c are communicated and a state in which the upstream-side supply path 96b and the cleaning water supply path 98 are communicated.

Next, the structure of the ultrasonic cleaning apparatus 50 and the structure of the periphery of the ultrasonic cleaning apparatus 50 including the storage tank 60 and the drain receiving portion 70 will be described in detail.

Fig. 3 (a) is a perspective view of the ultrasonic cleaning apparatus 50 and the top panel 12 when the ultrasonic cleaning unit 100 and the water storage unit 200 are located at the operating position. Fig. 3 (b) and (c) are perspective views of the ultrasonic cleaning apparatus 50 and the main part of the top panel 12 when the ultrasonic cleaning unit 100 and the water storage unit 200 are located at the standby position. In fig. 3 (c), the cover 19 is not shown in order to make the inside of the housing 17 visible.

The ultrasonic cleaning device 50 includes: an ultrasonic cleaning part 100, a water reservoir part 200, and a main body part 300. The ultrasonic cleaning unit 100 includes an ultrasonic generator 110 for generating ultrasonic waves. The main body 300 holds the ultrasonic cleaning unit 100. The water reservoir 200 is attached to the main body 300 below the ultrasonic wave generator 110. The water storage unit 200 is provided with a water storage tub 210 for storing washing water. The water storage portion 200 can be pulled out forward from the main body 300 by a detachment operation by a user.

The upper panel 12 is provided with a storage portion 17 for storing the ultrasonic cleaning apparatus 50 at the central portion of the rear portion. The upper panel 12 has an opening at the front of the housing 17 as an entrance 18. A substantially square cover 19 having translucency is provided at the doorway 18.

As shown in fig. 3 (a), when the ultrasonic cleaning apparatus 50 is used for the cleaning operation, the ultrasonic cleaning apparatus 50 is set to the following state: the ultrasonic cleaning unit 100 and the water storage unit 200, that is, the ultrasonic generator 110 and the water storage tub 210 are drawn out forward from the housing 17 and protrude toward the inside of the inlet 14 of the upper panel 12. The cover 19 is substantially entirely housed in the housing portion 17. The positions of the ultrasonic cleaning unit 100 and the water storage unit 200 at this time are the operation positions.

On the other hand, as shown in fig. 3 (b) and (c), when the ultrasonic cleaning device 50 is not used and the cleaning operation is not performed, the ultrasonic cleaning device 50 is in a state where the ultrasonic cleaning portion 100 and the water storage portion 200 are stored in the storage portion 17. The entrance 18 of the housing 17 is closed by a cover 19, and the front of the ultrasonic cleaning unit 100 is covered by the cover 19. At this time, the lower end of the cover 19 abuts against the base end portion of the handle 201 provided in the water storage portion 200. The handle 201 protrudes forward from the cover 19. The ultrasonic cleaning unit 100 and the water storage unit 200 are at the standby position.

In order to interlock the cover 19 with the operations of the ultrasonic cleaning unit 100 and the water storage unit 200, an interlocking mechanism unit, not shown, is provided inside the upper panel 12. When the ultrasonic cleaning unit 100 and the water storage unit 200 are stored in the storage unit 17, the cover 19 moves from the storage position stored in the storage unit 17 to the closing position closing the entrance 18, and when the ultrasonic cleaning unit 100 and the water storage unit 200 are pulled out from the storage unit 17, the cover 19 moves from the closing position to the storage position.

Fig. 4 is a perspective view of the ultrasonic cleaning apparatus 50 with the water reservoir 200 removed. Fig. 5 is a side sectional view of the ultrasonic cleaning unit 100 and the main body 300. Fig. 6 is a perspective view of the water storage portion 200 turned upside down.

Referring to fig. 4 and 5, the ultrasonic cleaning unit 100 includes: an ultrasonic generator 110, a housing 120, and a cover 130.

The ultrasonic generator 110 includes: an ultrasonic transducer 111; a vibration horn 112 coupled to the ultrasonic transducer 111; and a head portion 113 positioned above the ultrasonic transducer 111, the ultrasonic transducer 111 being interposed between the head portion 113 and the vibration horn 112. The vibration horn 112 is formed of a metal material having conductivity, and has a shape that is tapered as it goes toward the tip end side. The distal end surface 112a of the vibration horn 112 has an elongated rectangular shape. A flange portion 112b is formed at the upper end portion of the vibration horn 112. A damper 114 made of rubber or the like is attached to the vibration horn 112 so as to cover the flange portion 112b. The ultrasonic transducer 111, the vibration horn 112, and the head 113 are coupled by a bolt 115. An upper insulating plate 116 is disposed between the ultrasonic transducer 111 and the vibration horn 112, and a lower insulating plate 117 is disposed between the ultrasonic transducer 111 and the head portion 113.

The ultrasonic generator 110 generates ultrasonic waves from the distal end of the vibration horn 112 by high-frequency vibration of the ultrasonic transducer 111.

The housing 120 is formed of a resin material and has an arm shape which is long in the front-rear direction and a tip end portion 120a of which is bent downward. An opening 121 is formed in the lower surface of the distal end portion 120 a.

The housing 120 is formed by combining a lower member 140 whose upper surface is opened and an upper member 150 whose lower surface is opened. A metal reinforcing plate 160 is attached to the lower member 140. The lower member 140 is provided with a lower mounting hole 141 and a lower mounting boss 142, and the upper member 150 is provided with an upper mounting boss 151 corresponding to the lower mounting hole 141 and an upper mounting hole 152 corresponding to the lower mounting boss 142. The screw 171 passing through the lower mounting hole 141 is fixed to the upper mounting boss 151, and the screw 171 passing through the upper mounting hole 152 is fixed to the lower mounting boss 142. Thereby, the lower member 140 and the upper member 150 are combined. The front end 120a of the housing 120 is formed by the lower member 140.

The lower member 140 is provided with mounting bosses 143 at the front and rear of the opening 121. The periphery of the opening 121 of the lower member 140 forms an insertion opening 144 into which the cap 130 is inserted.

The ultrasonic generator 110 is attached to the lower member 140, and the flange portion 112b thereof is pressed from above by the frame-shaped fixing member 180. The fixing member 180 is formed of a resin material, and includes a tubular main body 181 having a shape corresponding to the upper portion of the ultrasonic generator 110, and mounting portions 182 and 183 provided on both front and rear sides of the main body 181. The mounting portions 182 and 183 have mounting holes 182a and 183a, respectively.

The fixing member 180 is inserted through the upper portion of the ultrasonic generator 110 from above, is disposed on the front and rear mounting bosses 143, and is fixed to the mounting bosses 143 by screws 172. Thereby, the ultrasonic generator 110 is fixed in the housing 120. The portion of the vibration horn 112 on the tip end side protrudes downward from the opening 121 of the housing 120. The buffer 114 is interposed between the flange 112b of the ultrasonic generator 110 and the lower member 140 and the fixing member 180, and suppresses propagation of vibration to the housing 120.

In the fixing member 180, a claw portion 182a is formed on the mounting portion 182, and the claw portion 182a is engaged with the engaging piece 153 of the upper member 150 from above. Thus, the lower member 140 is not easily separated from the upper member 150 at the front side of the housing 100.

The cover 130 is detachably attached to the front end portion 120a of the housing 120, covering the portion of the vibration horn 112 of the ultrasonic generator 110 exposed from the housing 120.

The cover 130 has a structure in which a cover main body 131 and a guide portion 132 are integrally formed of a resin material. The cover main body 131 has a cylindrical shape in which the front-rear left-right width is narrowed as it goes downward, and covers a portion of the ultrasonic generator 110 on the distal end side of the vibration horn 112 so that the distal end portion thereof is exposed.

The guide 132 is provided at the center of the front surface of the cover main body 131 in the left-right direction so as to protrude forward, and has a flat shape in the left-right direction. A guide surface 133 inclined obliquely downward rearward and bent to be horizontal at a lower end portion is provided at a lower portion of the guide portion 132. The lower end of the guide 132 is located below the lower end of the cover main body 131.

The cover 130 is attached to the insertion port portion 144 of the housing 120 from below. At this time, the protrusions, not shown, provided on the left and right sides of the fitting port portion 144 are fitted into the recesses, not shown, provided on the left and right sides of the cap body 131. Thereby, the cap 130 is not detached from the fitting opening portion 144.

As shown in fig. 5, in a state where the cover 130 is attached to the housing 120, the front end portion of the vibration horn 112 of the ultrasonic generator 110 is slightly exposed from the cover main body 131. Further, the lower end of the guide portion 132 of the cap 130 is almost coplanar with the front end surface 112a of the vibration horn 112. Further, the guide surface 133 of the guide portion 132 is inclined so as to approach the vibration horn 112 as approaching the water storage tub 210. The position of the guide portion 132 coincides with the position of the distal end portion of the vibration horn 112 in the left-right direction, that is, in the direction orthogonal to the front direction of the ultrasonic cleaning unit 100.

Referring to fig. 4 and 5, the body 300 has a substantially square shape when viewed from the front. The right and left lower ends of the main body 300 are provided with guide rail portions 301 extending forward. Further, an opening 302 through which the rear portion of the water storage portion 200 and the supply nozzle 500 pass is formed on the left side of the main body 300, and an insertion opening 303 into which the claw portion 241 of the lock mechanism 240 is inserted is formed on the right side of the opening 302. The rear part 120b of the housing 120 of the ultrasonic cleaning unit 100 is fixed to the upper part of the body 300.

Referring to fig. 4 and 6, the water storage unit 200 is formed of a resin material and has a shape slightly longer in the front-rear direction, flat in the vertical direction, and with the left side portion projecting rearward from the right side portion. A handle 201 having an arc-shaped front surface is formed integrally with water storage unit 200 on the front surface of water storage unit 200. The user grips the handle 201 when putting the ultrasonic cleaning apparatus 50 in and out of the housing portion 17 and when attaching and detaching the water storage portion 200 to and from the main body portion 300.

A water storage tub 210 having a shape following the outer shape of the water storage unit 200 is formed on the upper surface of the water storage unit 200. The inner circumferential surface of the water storage tub 210 is inclined so as to expand upward. A circular water discharge port 211 is formed at a lower portion of the rear surface of the water storage tub 210.

The water storage unit 200 includes: a valve body 220 for closing the water outlet 211; and a valve switching mechanism 230 for switching between a closed state in which the valve body 220 is closed and an open state in which the valve body 220 is opened.

The valve body 220 is formed of a resin material and has a substantially cylindrical shape. Valve body 220 has O-ring 221 on its peripheral surface, and drain port 211 is closed from the front by fitting O-ring 221 to the peripheral edge of drain port 211.

The valve switching mechanism 230 includes: a valve movable member 231, an operation portion 232, and a spring 233. The valve movable member 231 and the operation portion 232 are integrally formed of a resin material.

The valve movable member 231 is disposed on the back side of the water storage unit 200 so as to be movable in the front-back direction, i.e., the opening/closing direction of the valve body 220. The rear end 231a of the valve movable member 231 protrudes rearward from the water storage unit 200. On the rear side of the water storage unit 200, the valve body 220 is connected to a rear end 231a of the valve movable member 231.

The operation portion 232 is provided at the distal end 231b of the valve movable member 231. The operation unit 232 faces outward from the operation window 202 provided on the left side surface of the water storage unit 200. The spring 233 biases the valve movable member 231 rearward, i.e., in the closing direction of the valve body 220.

A lock mechanism 240 for fixing the water storage portion 200 attached to the main body 300 so as not to be separated forward is provided at the rear portion of the water storage portion 200. The locking mechanism 240 has a pawl portion 241 and a button 242. The claw portion 241 is biased upward by a spring, not shown, and descends when the button 242 is pressed down, and returns to the original position when the button 242 is released.

The water storage portion 200 is attached to the main body portion 300 from the front. Insertion portions 203 are provided on the right and left end portions of the back side of the water storage portion 200, and the water storage portion 200 is guided by the left and right guide rail portions 301 of the main body 300 by inserting the insertion portions 203 into the guide rail portions 301. The left rear portion of the water storage portion 200 passes through the opening 302 of the main body 300. The claw portion 241 of the lock mechanism 240 is pressed down against the upper edge of the insertion port 303 of the main body 300 and passes through the insertion port 303. When the water storage portion 200 is completely attached to the main body 300, the claw portion 241 engages with the upper edge of the insertion port 303 on the back side of the main body 300. This prevents the water storage unit 200 from separating forward from the main body 300. When the water storage unit 200 is detached from the main body 300, the button 242 of the lock mechanism 240 is pressed, and the claw portion 241 is lowered. Thereby, the engagement of the claw portion 241 with the upper edge of the insertion port 303 is released. By pulling the water storage portion 200 forward, the water storage portion 200 is detached from the main body 300.

In a state where the reservoir part 200 is attached to the main body part 300, the position of the distal end surface 112a of the vibration horn 112 of the ultrasonic generator 110 is slightly lower than the position of the upper surface of the reservoir 210, and the distal end portion of the vibration horn 112 enters the reservoir 210 slightly.

Fig. 7 is a side sectional view of the ultrasonic cleaning apparatus 50, the storage tank 60, the supply valve 400, the supply nozzle 500, and the drain receiving portion 70 when the ultrasonic cleaning portion 100 and the water storage portion 200 are located at the standby position. Fig. 8 is a side sectional view of the ultrasonic cleaning apparatus 50, the storage tank 60, the supply valve 400, the supply nozzle 500, and the drain receiving portion 70 when the ultrasonic cleaning portion 100 and the water storage portion 200 are at the operating position. Fig. 9 is a perspective view of the storage tank 60, the supply valve 400, and the supply nozzle 500.

In the housing 17, the storage tank 60, the supply valve 400, and the supply nozzle 500 are disposed behind the ultrasonic cleaning apparatus 50.

Supply valve 400 is a solenoid valve. The supply valve 400 includes: a valve housing 410 having inlets at left and right side surfaces and an outlet at a lower surface; a valve body 420 for opening and closing an outlet of the valve housing 410; and a driving portion 430 such as a solenoid for driving the valve body 420. The outlet of the valve housing 410 is connected to the inlet of the supply nozzle 500.

The storage tank 60 is formed of a resin material and is divided into a first tank 61 and a second tank 62 with a supply valve 400 interposed therebetween. The first tank 61 and the second tank 62 are set to have a larger size in the right and left direction than in the up and down direction and the front and rear direction. The left end portion of the first case 61 protrudes forward from the other portions, and the right end portion of the second case 62 protrudes forward from the other portions. The storage tank 60 has a shape that is thinner in the front-rear direction and longer in the left-right direction as viewed from above, since the size in the left-right direction is much larger than the size in the front-rear direction.

The upper portions of both the first tank 61 and the second tank 62 are connected by a communication portion 63 extending from the first tank 61. In the first tank 61, an outlet port 64 formed in a lower portion of a right side surface thereof is connected to an inlet port on a left side of the valve housing 410. In the second tank 62, an outlet 65 formed in a lower portion of a left side surface thereof is connected to an inlet on a right side of the valve housing 410. In the first tank 61 and the second tank 62, the outflow ports 64, 65 are connected to each other via a valve housing 410.

The storage tank 60 has an inlet 66 for the washing water to the storage tank 60 formed at the left end of the first tank 61. The inflow port 66 is connected to a cleaning water supply line 98 of the automatic loading mechanism 90. The washing water supplied from the automatic supply mechanism 90 flows into the first tank 61 from the inflow port 66, and then flows into the second tank 62 through the valve housing 410 and the communication portion 63. This stores the washing water in the storage tank 60. The storage tank 60 has a larger water storage capacity than the water storage tank 210, and can store water having a water storage capacity more than twice the water storage capacity of the water storage tank 210 in the storage tank 60.

When supply valve 400, i.e., valve body 420, is opened, wash water flows out from the inside of first tank 61 and second tank 62 of retention tank 60 through the outlet of valve housing 410, respectively.

The supply nozzle 500 is formed of a resin material, extends forward from the supply valve 400, and has a distal end portion 500a bent downward. A discharge port 501 is formed in the lower surface of the distal end portion 500 a.

In a state where the ultrasonic cleaning unit 100 and the water storage unit 200 are housed in the housing 17 as shown in fig. 7, the supply nozzle 500 penetrates the opening 302 of the body 300, and the tip end 500a thereof is positioned at the front of the water storage tub 210. On the other hand, as shown in fig. 8, in a state where ultrasonic cleaning unit 100 and water storage unit 200 are pulled out to the inside of inlet 14, tip end 500a of supply nozzle 500 is positioned at the rear of water storage tub 210.

A drain receiving portion 70 is disposed below the ultrasonic cleaning apparatus 50 in the housing portion 17. The drain receiver 70 has a generally square dish shape with an upper surface and a front surface open. The bottom surface of the drain receiving portion 70 is inclined so that the rear portion becomes lower. A discharge hole 71 is formed in the right side surface of the drain receiving portion 70 at the lower end of the rear portion and at the lowest position of the bottom surface. A drain pipe 72 is connected to a connection pipe 73 extending rightward from the discharge hole 71.

In the fully automatic washing machine 1 of the present embodiment, in the ultrasonic cleaning device 50, the ultrasonic generator 110 may generate heat when it is operated, that is, when the ultrasonic transducer 111 vibrates at a high frequency. Therefore, a temperature controller 700 is disposed around the ultrasonic generator 110 to adjust the temperature of the ultrasonic generator 110. The temperature controller 700 corresponds to the "temperature detecting unit" of the present invention, and the front surface 701 of the temperature controller 700 corresponds to the "surface facing the ultrasonic generator" of the present invention.

Fig. 10 (base:Sub>A) isbase:Sub>A perspective view showingbase:Sub>A state where the fixing member 180 passes through the upper portion of the ultrasonic generator 110, and fig. 10 (b) isbase:Sub>A sectional view taken along linebase:Sub>A-base:Sub>A' of fig. 10 (base:Sub>A). Fig. 10 (c) is a perspective view of the fixing member 180.

The thermostat 700 is held by a holding part 190 provided in the fixing member 180. The holding portion 190 is integrally formed on the inner surface side of the body portion 181 of the fixing member 180.

The holder 190 has a front surface facing the ultrasonic generator 110, and includes: a substantially square back portion 191; a left side portion 192 and a right side portion 193 extending in the front direction from both left and right ends of the back portion 191; and a bottom section 194 extending forward from the right half of the lower end of the back section 191. The front end of the left side surface 192 slightly protrudes rightward, and the front end of the right side surface 193 slightly protrudes leftward. The space surrounded by the back 191, the left 192, the right 193, and the bottom 194 is a receiving portion 190a having a shape corresponding to the temperature controller 700.

The temperature controller 700 is accommodated in the accommodating portion 190a of the holding portion 190 from above. The left and right ends of the front 701 of the temperature controller 700 abut against the protruding portions of the front ends of the left side 192 and the right side 193 of the holder 190. Thus, the temperature controller 700 does not fall off to the front, i.e., the ultrasonic generator 110 side. A claw portion 195 is formed at the upper end of the left side surface 192 of the holding portion 190, and the claw portion 195 engages with the left end portion of the upper surface of the thermostat 700. Accordingly, the temperature controller 700 is not easily removed upward from the accommodating portion 190a.

In a state where the thermostat 700 is held by the holding portion 190, the front surface 701 of the thermostat 700 is exposed to the outside of the holding portion 190 and faces the inside of the main body 181 of the fixing member 180. The front 701 of the thermostat 700 faces the side of the ultrasound generator 110, i.e., the side of the head 113, at a slight distance. That is, a slight gap is formed between the front surface 701 of the temperature controller 700 and the side surface of the ultrasonic generator 110.

When the ultrasonic generator 110 generates heat due to its operation, the heat is transmitted to the thermostat 700 through the air in the gap between the ultrasonic generator 110 and the thermostat 700. Thus, the temperature of the ultrasonic generator 110 is detected by the temperature controller 700. At this time, since the front surface 701 of the temperature controller 700 does not contact the ultrasonic wave generator 110, the vibration of the ultrasonic wave generator 110 is not easily transmitted to the temperature controller 700, and thus, the temperature controller 700 can be prevented from being broken or damaged. Further, since the front surface 701 of the temperature controller 700 is exposed, heat from the ultrasonic generator 110 is easily transmitted to the temperature controller 700, and the temperature of the ultrasonic generator 110 can be easily detected.

In the present embodiment, as shown in fig. 10 (b), the front end of the central portion of the bottom surface of the temperature controller 700 slightly contacts the upper insulating plate 116 of the ultrasonic generator 110. Thus, the temperature controller 700 is supported not only by the bottom surface portion 194 of the holding portion 190 but also from below by the upper insulating plate 116. In this way, although the temperature controller 700 is slightly in contact with the upper insulating plate 116, the propagation of the vibration from the ultrasonic wave generator 110 to the temperature controller 700, which is generated by the contact, is very small, and the temperature controller 700 is not broken or damaged. The bottom surface of the temperature controller 700 may not be supported by the upper insulating plate 116, and the temperature controller 700 may not be in contact with the ultrasonic generator 110 at all.

Fig. 11 (a) is a block diagram showing a configuration for supplying power to the ultrasonic wave generator 110.

Power is supplied from the power supply unit 800 to the ultrasonic transducer 111 which is the ultrasonic generator 110. The temperature controller 700 is disposed on a supply line 801 for supplying power from the power supply unit 800 to the ultrasonic generator 110. A switching circuit 810 whose ON/OFF (ON/OFF) is controlled by the control unit 16 is also disposed in the supply line 801.

When the switch circuit 810 is turned on by the control unit 16, power is supplied from the power supply unit 800 to the ultrasonic generator 110, and the ultrasonic generator 110 operates.

When the temperature of the temperature controller 700 reaches a predetermined first temperature, for example, 75 ℃ during the operation of the ultrasonic wave generator 110, the contact is opened to cut off the supply line 801. Thereby, the power supply unit 800 stops supplying power to the ultrasonic wave generator 110. When the temperature of the thermostat 700 decreases to a predetermined second temperature lower than the first temperature, for example, 70 ℃, the contact is closed to release the disconnection of the supply line 801. Thereby, the power supply unit 800 restarts supplying power to the ultrasonic generator 110.

When the switch circuit 810 is turned off by the control unit 16, the power supply from the power supply unit 800 to the ultrasonic wave generator 110 is stopped.

The full automatic washing machine 1 performs washing operations in various operation modes. In the washing operation, a washing process, an intermediate dehydration process, a rinsing process, and a final dehydration process are sequentially performed.

In the washing process and the rinsing process, the pulsator 24 rotates in the right and left directions in a state that water is stored in the washing and dehydrating tub 22. By the rotation of the pulsator 24, a water current is generated in the washing and dehydrating tub 22. In the washing process, the laundry is washed by the generated water flow and the detergent contained in the water. In the rinsing process, the laundry is rinsed by the generated water flow.

In the intermediate dehydration process and the final dehydration process, the washing dehydration tub 22 and the pulsator 24 are integrally rotated at a high speed. The laundry is dehydrated by the centrifugal force generated in the washing and dehydrating tub 22.

When water is supplied during the washing process, the automatic supply mechanism 90 automatically supplies a liquid detergent into the washing and dehydrating tub 22. At this time, first, the first three-way valve 93 is switched to a state in which the supply pipe 92 communicates with the supply pump 95. The second three-way valve 97 is switched to a state in which the upstream-side supply path 96b and the downstream-side supply path 96c are communicated with each other. When the supply pump 95 is operated, the liquid detergent in the detergent box 91 is discharged by a pumping action. The discharged liquid detergent is sent to the detergent supply path 96 through the supply pipe 92, the first three-way valve 93, and the supply pump 95 as indicated by the broken line arrow in fig. 2, and is stored in the upstream side supply path 96b of the detergent supply path 96. The supply pump 95 operates for a predetermined time, and thereby a predetermined amount of liquid detergent is stored in the upstream side supply passage 96b.

Subsequently, the first three-way valve 93 is switched to a state in which the sub water supply passage 94 is communicated with the supply pump 95, and the main valve 82 and the sub valve 83 are opened. The water from the faucet flows through the main water supply path 84 and is discharged from the water inlet 84a into the washing and spin-drying tub 22. At the same time, as shown by solid arrows in fig. 2, water from the faucet flows through the sub water supply path 94, the first three-way valve 93, and the supply pump 95 to the detergent supply path 96, and washes away the liquid detergent. The liquid detergent flushed by the water is fed into the washing and dehydrating tub 22 from the supply port 96a of the detergent supply path 96 together with the water as indicated by the one-dot chain line arrow in fig. 2. When the water level in the washing and dehydrating tub 22 reaches a predetermined washing water level, the main valve 82 and the sub valve 83 are closed, and the water supply is terminated.

Then, the full-automatic washing machine 1 performs a washing operation by the ultrasonic washing device 50. When an object to be cleaned, such as a shirt, is washed and if the object to be cleaned locally contains stubborn dirt, the user performs local washing of the object to be cleaned using the ultrasonic cleaning apparatus 50 prior to washing.

When the user performs the cleaning operation, the user pulls out the ultrasonic cleaning device 50 from the housing 17 as shown in fig. 3 (a), and moves the ultrasonic cleaning unit 100 and the water storage unit 200 to the operation position. As shown in fig. 8, the valve switching mechanism 230 biases the valve body 220 in the rearward direction, i.e., the closing direction, via the valve movable member 231 by the biasing force of the spring 233. Thereby, the valve body 220 closes the drain port 211, and the drain port 211 is in a closed state.

The user performs a prescribed start operation to start the washing operation.

When the washing operation is started, the automatic charging mechanism 90 first supplies washing water into the storage tank 60. That is, first, the first three-way valve 93 is switched to a state in which the supply pipe 92 communicates with the supply pump 95. The second three-way valve 97 is switched to a state in which the upstream side supply passage 96b and the washing water supply passage 98 communicate with each other. Further, supply valve 400 is closed. When the supply pump 95 is operated, the liquid detergent in the detergent box 91 is discharged by a pumping action. As shown by the broken line arrows in fig. 2, the liquid detergent discharged from the detergent box 91 reaches the detergent supply path 96 and is stored in the upstream supply path 96b of the detergent supply path 96. The supply pump 95 operates for a predetermined time, and thereby a predetermined amount of liquid detergent is stored in the upstream side supply passage 96b.

Subsequently, the first three-way valve 93 is switched to a state in which the sub water supply passage 94 and the supply pump 95 are communicated, and the sub valve 83 is opened. As shown by solid arrows in fig. 2, water from the faucet flows through the sub-water supply path 94, the first three-way valve 93, and the supply pump 95 to the detergent supply path 96, and washes away the liquid detergent. The water is mixed with the liquid detergent to become washing water. As shown by thick line arrows in fig. 2, the washing water flows into the storage tank 60 through the washing water supply line 98.

When the water level in the storage tank 60 reaches a predetermined water supply stop level and is detected by a water level detector, not shown, the sub valve 83 is closed.

By supplying the washing water from the automatic supply mechanism 90 in this way, the washing water of a predetermined water amount and a predetermined detergent concentration is stored in the storage tank 60. In the present embodiment, the amount of the washing water stored in the storage tank 60 is set to an amount that enables two washing operations to be performed by replacing the washing water in the water storage tub 210. The amount of the washing water stored in the storage tank 60 may be an amount that enables the washing operation to be performed three or more times.

Subsequently, the supply valve 400 is opened. The washing water in the storage tank 60 is discharged from the discharge port 501 into the water storage tub 210 through the supply nozzle 500. The washing water is stored in the water storage tub 210, and the water level in the water storage tub 210 rises. As shown by the one-dot chain line in fig. 8, when the water level in the water storage tub 210 rises to the level of the drain port 501 and the drain port 501 is blocked by the washing water, the air pressure in the storage tank 60 is balanced with the air pressure outside. Thus, the water supply from the storage tank 60 is stopped while keeping the state where the supply valve 400 is opened.

When the washing water is stored in the tub 210, the user places a dirt-attached portion of the object to be washed, such as a collar portion of a shirt, on the tub 210, i.e., between the tub 210 and the vibration horn 112 of the ultrasonic generator 110, from the front direction of the ultrasonic washing section 100.

The dirt adhering portion of the object to be cleaned is soaked in the cleaning water stored in the water storage tub 210, and the cleaning water permeating the inside of the object to be cleaned seeps out to the surface. A thin water layer is formed on the surface of the object to be cleaned, and the vibration horn 112 is in contact with the water layer. When the water level in the storage tub 210 drops due to the water absorption of the object to be washed and the drain port 501 of the supply nozzle 500 is no longer blocked by the washing water, the washing water is supplied from the storage tank 60 into the storage tub 210 until the drain port 501 is blocked by the washing water again. Thereby, the water level, i.e., the amount of water, in the water storage tub 210 is maintained in an appropriate state.

After the supply valve 400 is opened until a predetermined standby time elapses, the ultrasonic transducer 111 is not energized, and the ultrasonic generator 110 is in a standby state. During this time, the water storage tub 210 stores washing water, and the object to be washed is placed in the water storage tub 210 storing the washing water. When the standby time elapses, the ultrasonic transducer 111 is energized to operate the ultrasonic generator 110.

Fig. 12 (a) to (c) are diagrams for explaining the decontamination of the object to be cleaned by the ultrasonic cleaning device 50.

When the ultrasonic generator 110 is operated, ultrasonic waves are generated from the distal end of the vibration horn 112, and the ultrasonic vibrations are transmitted to the washing water inside the object to be washed via the washing water around the vibration horn 112. As shown in fig. 12 (a), inside the object to be cleaned, pressure reduction and pressurization are alternately generated by the action of ultrasonic vibration, and a vacuum cavity is generated in a portion where the pressure is reduced. That is, a state is assumed in which many cavities are present in the portion of the object to be cleaned that is soiled. Next, as shown in fig. 12 (b), when the pressure of the cavity portion becomes high and the cavity is broken and collapsed by the pressure, a shock wave is generated to the dirt portion of the object to be cleaned. By this shock wave, dirt is separated from the object to be cleaned. As shown in fig. 12 (c), the ultrasonic vibration from the vibration horn 112 generates a water flow that travels from the inside of the object to be cleaned to the inside of the water storage tub 210, and dirt separated from the object to be cleaned is discharged into the water storage tub 210 by the water flow. In the water storage tub 210, since the convection is generated by the water flow, dirt is easily peeled off from the object to be cleaned. Further, the detergent contained in the washing water also easily peels off the dirt from the object to be washed, and the dirt is less likely to adhere to the object to be washed again. In this way, the dirt is removed from the object to be cleaned.

As described above, during the operation of the ultrasonic generator 110, the temperature of the ultrasonic generator 110 is detected by the temperature controller 700. The temperature of the ultrasonic wave generator 110 is increased by a long operation time, and when the temperature detected by the temperature controller 700 reaches the first temperature, the temperature controller 700 is turned off to stop the supply of electricity to the ultrasonic wave generator 110. Then, the temperature of the ultrasonic generator 110 is lowered, and when the detected temperature of the thermostat 700 reaches the second temperature, the thermostat 700 is turned on to restart the energization of the ultrasonic generator 110.

In this manner, the temperature controller 700 functions to adjust the temperature of the ultrasonic wave generator 110 based on the temperature detection, thereby suppressing the temperature rise of the ultrasonic wave generator 110 during the cleaning operation. Thus, even if the hand of the user accidentally touches the ultrasonic wave generator 110 during the cleaning operation, the user can be prevented from being scared by the heat of the ultrasonic wave generator 110.

When the cleaning of the object to be cleaned is completed, the user performs a predetermined end operation to end the cleaning operation. The operation of the ultrasonic wave generator 110 is stopped, and the cleaning operation is ended.

When a new cleaning operation is not to be performed, the user stores the ultrasonic cleaning device 50 in the storage 17 and moves the ultrasonic cleaning unit 100 and the water storage unit 200 to the standby position, as shown in fig. 3 (b) and (c). When the water storage portion 200 moves to the standby position as shown in fig. 7, the rear end portion 231a of the valve movable member 231 abuts against the rear surface of the drain receiver 70 in the valve switching mechanism 230, and is pressed by the ribs 74, and moves forward relative to the water storage portion 200 against the biasing force of the spring 233. The valve body 220 connected to the valve movable member 231 moves forward, i.e., in the opening direction, with respect to the water discharge port 211 of the reservoir 210, and the water discharge port 211 opens. Thus, the washing water stored in the storage tub 210 and the washing water remaining in the storage tank 60 are discharged through the drain port 211. The washing water discharged from the drain port 211 is received by the drain receiving portion 70 and discharged from the drain hole 71. The washing water discharged from the discharge hole 71 flows through the drain pipe 72, the overflow pipe 26 and the drain hose 41 and is discharged to the outside of the machine.

The user may sometimes want to replace the washing water of the tub 210 to continue the washing operation. In this case, the user performs a moving operation of moving the operation unit 232 forward. Thus, in the valve switching mechanism 230, the valve movable member 231 moves forward relative to the reservoir portion 200, the valve body 220 moves in the opening direction, and the drain port 211 opens, as in the case where the reservoir portion 200 moves to the standby position. The washing water stored in the water storage tub 210 is discharged through the water discharge port 211, and is discharged to the outside of the machine through the water discharge receiving portion 70, the overflow pipe 26, and the water discharge hose 41. At the same time, fresh washing water is supplied from the storage tank 60 to the water storage tub 210.

In this manner, the user can discharge the washing water from the water storage tub 210 without moving the ultrasonic washing device 50 while maintaining the operation position of the water storage unit 200, and can supply new washing water to the water storage tub 210. Then, the cleaning operation is continued.

In the ultrasonic cleaning unit 100, the water storage tank 210 may be contaminated while the cleaning operation is repeated. In the present embodiment, the water storage portion 200 is detachable from the main body 300, and therefore, the user can detach the water storage portion 200 from the main body 300 to clean the water storage tub 210.

< effects of the embodiment >

As described above, according to the present embodiment, the temperature controller 700 is disposed around the ultrasonic generator 110, and the power supply unit 800 stops supplying power to the ultrasonic generator 110 when the temperature controller 700 detects the first temperature, so that the temperature increase of the ultrasonic generator 110 can be suppressed.

Further, according to the present embodiment, since the front surface 701 facing the ultrasonic wave generator 110 is spaced apart from the ultrasonic wave generator 110 in a state where the temperature controller 700 is held by the holding portion 190, the vibration of the ultrasonic wave generator 110 is not easily transmitted to the temperature controller 700, and thus, the temperature controller 700 can be prevented from being broken or damaged.

In the case where the temperature controller 700 is directly attached to the ultrasonic wave generator 110, unlike the present embodiment, the contact surface between the temperature controller 700 and the ultrasonic wave generator 110 is finely moved by the vibration of the ultrasonic wave generator 110, and thus the heat transmission is easily inhibited. Therefore, the heat transmission is not so good as compared with the case where the front surface 701 of the temperature controller 700 is spaced apart from the ultrasonic wave generator 110 as in the present embodiment.

In addition, according to the present embodiment, the holding portion 190 exposes the front surface 701 of the thermostat 700 facing the ultrasound generating body 110. This facilitates transmission of heat from the ultrasonic generator 110 to the temperature controller 700, and facilitates satisfactory detection of the temperature of the ultrasonic generator 110.

Furthermore, according to the present embodiment, since the holding portion 190 for holding the temperature controller 700 is provided on the fixing member 180, the temperature controller 700 can be easily disposed around the ultrasonic generator 110 by the fixing member 180.

Furthermore, according to the present embodiment, the thermostat 700 is disposed at a height facing the head 113 of the ultrasound generator 110, and therefore is not likely to come into contact with the ultrasound transducer 111, which is a part to be energized.

While the embodiments of the present invention have been described above, the present invention is not limited to the above embodiments, and various modifications other than those described above may be made to the embodiments of the present invention.

For example, in the above embodiment, the temperature controller 700 is disposed around the ultrasonic generator 110 in order to detect the temperature of the ultrasonic generator 110. However, as the temperature detecting unit, a thermistor 710 may be disposed around the ultrasonic wave generator 110 instead of the temperature controller 700. In this case, the holding portion 190 may be changed to a shape corresponding to the shape of the thermistor 710. However, as in the case of the thermostat 700, the front surface of the thermistor 710 is exposed to the outside while being spaced apart from the ultrasound wave generator 110 in the state of being held by the holding portion 190.

Fig. 11 (b) is a block diagram showing a configuration for supplying power to the ultrasonic generator 110 in a case where the thermistor 710 is used according to a modification.

The thermistor 710 is connected to the control unit 16, and the temperature detected by the thermistor 710 is input to the control unit 16. When the ultrasonic generator 110 is operated and the temperature detected by the thermistor 710 reaches the first temperature, the control unit 16 turns off the switch circuit 810. Thereby, the power supply unit 800 stops supplying power to the ultrasonic wave generator 110. When the temperature detected by the thermistor 710 decreases to the second temperature, the control unit 16 turns on the switching circuit 810. Thereby, the power supply unit 800 restarts supplying power to the ultrasonic generator 110.

In the above embodiment, the holding portion 190 is provided in the fixing member 180. However, the holding portion 190 may be provided on a member other than the fixing member 180, such as the lower member 140 and the upper member 150 constituting the housing 120.

In the above embodiment, the temperature controller 700 is disposed such that the front surface 701 thereof faces the side surface of the head 113 of the ultrasound generating body 110. However, the thermostat 700 may be disposed such that the front surface 701 faces another surface of the ultrasound generating body 110, for example, the top surface of the head 113.

In the above embodiment, the thermostat 700 is held by the holding unit 190 with its front 701 spaced apart from the ultrasonic wave generator 110. However, the temperature controller 700 may be directly attached to the ultrasonic wave generator 110, for example, if it is strong enough not to fear failure, damage, or the like due to vibration. In this case, the temperature controller 700 may be attached to the head 113 of the ultrasonic generator 110, for example.

In the above embodiment, the automatic supply mechanism 90 may be configured to automatically supply the detergent and the softener. In this case, a conditioner cartridge containing a liquid conditioner is provided. The conditioner box is connected to the sub water supply path 94 via a supply pipe and a three-way valve. During the rinsing process, the conditioner in the conditioner box is supplied into the washing and dehydrating tub 22 by the same action as the supply of the detergent from the detergent box 91.

In the above embodiment, the ultrasonic cleaning device 50 is provided in the fully automatic washing machine 1. However, the ultrasonic cleaning device 50 may be installed in a washing machine other than the fully automatic washing machine 1, for example, a drum washing machine. The ultrasonic cleaning device 50 may be provided in a full-automatic washing and drying machine or a drum-type washing and drying machine having a drying function, for example. In a drum washing machine and a drum washing and drying all-in-one machine, a drum is disposed as an inner cylinder in an outer cylinder. The ultrasonic cleaning device 50 may be disposed in a disposition portion provided in a device other than the washing machine such as a washbasin.

The embodiments of the present invention can be modified in various ways as appropriate within the scope of the technical idea described in the claims.

Claims (6)

1. An ultrasonic cleaning device is characterized by comprising:

   the water storage barrel can store water;

   an ultrasonic generator that generates ultrasonic waves that act on an object to be cleaned immersed in water in the water storage tub;

   a power supply unit for supplying power to the ultrasonic wave generator; and

   a temperature detector disposed around the ultrasonic generator,

   the power supply unit stops supplying power to the ultrasonic generator when the temperature detection unit detects a predetermined temperature.
2. An ultrasonic cleaning device according to claim 1,

   the temperature detection unit includes: and a temperature controller disposed on a supply line for supplying power from the power supply unit to the ultrasonic generator.
3. An ultrasonic cleaning device according to claim 1 or 2,

   further provided with: a holding section for holding the temperature detection section,

   in a state where the temperature detecting unit is held by the holding unit, a surface of the temperature detecting unit facing the ultrasonic wave generator is spaced apart from the ultrasonic wave generator.
4. An ultrasonic cleaning device according to claim 3,

   the holding portion exposes the opposing surfaces of the temperature detection portion.
5. The ultrasonic cleaning device according to claim 3 or 4, further comprising:

   a housing accommodating the ultrasonic generator; and

   a fixing member for fixing the ultrasonic wave generator in the housing,

   the holding portion is provided to the fixing member.
6. A washing machine is characterized by comprising:

   an outer tub capable of storing water;

   an inner tub disposed in the outer tub and accommodating laundry; and

   the ultrasonic cleaning device according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

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