JP2003230525A - Dish washer - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a dish washer in which tableware can be washed without using a detergent. <P>SOLUTION: In the dish washer 1, water is supplied to a washing tank 6 through a water-supply mechanism 8 and a washing agent stored within the washing tank 6 is sprayed toward the tableware within the washing tank 6 by a washing pump 9. A circuit 29 returning from the casing of the washing pump 9 to the bottom 13 of the washing tank 6 and an electrolytic unit 30 generating electrolytic water by electrolyzing water, which is placed in this circuit 29, are placed. Thick electrolytic water is obtained by electrolyzing by repeatedly flowing water into the electrolytic unit 30 by means of the washing pump 9. The tableware can be washed without using the detergent by the washing effect of the electrolytic water. Because water flows into the inside of the electrolytic unit 30 by the washing pump 9, it is possible to control attachment of garbage and scale, to raise electrolytic efficiency, and enhance durability. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2003,JPO

Description

Detailed Description of the Invention

[0001]

FIELD OF THE INVENTION The present invention relates to dishwashers.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art Dishwashers usually wash dishes with a detergent.

[0003]

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The present invention provides a dishwasher capable of washing dishes without the use of detergent.

[0004]

According to the invention described in claim 1, the washing liquid is stored in the washing tank, and the dishes are washed by injecting the washing liquid toward the dishes stored in the washing tank. A dishwasher, which pumps out the cleaning liquid that is sprayed onto the dishes and drops to the lower part of the cleaning tank, and discharges the cleaning liquid toward the dishes. It is characterized by having a water passage communicating with a lower portion and an electrolysis unit provided in the water passage and electrolyzing a cleaning liquid flowing through the water passage to generate electrolyzed water.

According to the present invention, for example, when the cleaning liquid flows by the pumping device, a part of the cleaning liquid flows from the pumping device to the lower part of the cleaning tank through the water passage. Meanwhile, electrolyzed water is generated in the electrolysis unit. The generated electrolyzed water is returned to the lower part of the cleaning tank together with the flow of the water passage and used for cleaning. Thus, the cleaning effect of electrolytic water can be obtained, and, for example, it is possible to dispense with detergent for cleaning dishes. In addition, since the washing solution can be repeatedly electrolyzed by the electrolysis unit through the water passage, concentrated electrolyzed water is obtained,
It has a high cleaning effect and is therefore preferred for dishwashers, which tend to target heavy soiling. Further, it is possible to prevent the cleaning liquid from flowing to the electrolytic unit during cleaning or rinsing by the pumping-out means to prevent the residue and scale from adhering to the water passage or the electrolytic unit.

According to a second aspect of the invention, in the first aspect, the water passage comprises a circulation passage for returning a part of the cleaning liquid pumped out by the pumping means to the lower portion of the cleaning tank. According to the present invention, since the cleaning liquid can be surely caused to flow to the circulation path and the electrolysis unit by the pumping-out means, it is possible to more reliably suppress the attachment of the residual food in the circulation path and the electrolysis unit.

According to a third aspect of the present invention, in the second aspect, the cleaning tank is provided with a filter for filtering the cleaning liquid when the cleaning liquid sprayed on the dishes falls and accumulates in the lower part of the cleaning tank. The circulation path is characterized in that the cleaning solution is returned to the lower part of the cleaning tank so that the electrolytic solution is mixed with the filtered cleaning solution. According to the present invention, it is possible to prevent immediate reaction between electrolyzed water immediately after flowing out from the circulation path and stains such as residual vegetables. Therefore, it is possible to prevent unnecessary reactions between the dirt and the electrolyzed water, and to maintain the cleaning effect of the electrolyzed water at a high level and use it for cleaning.

The invention described in claim 4 is based on claims 1 to 3.
In any one of the above, it has a flow rate suppressing means for suppressing the flow rate of the cleaning liquid flowing through the water passage to a predetermined amount or less, and by this flow rate suppressing means, the degree of electrolysis of electrolyzed water in the electrolysis unit is increased. Characterize. According to this invention, by suppressing the flow rate, even if the same electrolysis unit is used, it is possible to efficiently electrolyze, so it is possible to obtain so-called concentrated electrolyzed water with a high degree of electrolysis,
As a result, the cleaning ability can be improved.

According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, in the dishwasher according to the fourth aspect, the flow rate suppressing means includes a water passage partially narrowed. According to the present invention, by restricting a part of the water passage, the flow rate of the water passage can be suppressed to a predetermined amount or less. In this way, a simple configuration in which a part of the water passage is narrowed is sufficient, and moreover, since the narrowed part is only a part, it is possible to suppress clogging of the leftover food. Claim 6
The invention according to claim 4 is characterized in that, in claim 4, the flow rate suppressing means includes control means for intermittently operating the pumping means.

According to the present invention, the average flow rate can be suppressed below a predetermined amount by intermittently stopping the cleaning liquid supplied to the water passage or reducing the flow velocity. As described above, since the control of the operation of the pumping means is used, the operation can be easily performed. Further, by changing the interval of intermittent operation, it is possible to easily adjust to a desired flow rate. Further, it is possible to suppress the adhesion of the residual food by causing a flow in the water passage. The invention according to claim 7 is characterized in that, in any one of claims 1 to 6, it further comprises an addition unit for introducing an electrolysis accelerator into the electrolysis unit.

According to the present invention, since the electrolysis can be efficiently electrolyzed, for example, concentrated electrolyzed water can be easily obtained. Further, by using an electrolysis accelerator,
The distance between the electrodes of the electrolysis unit can be increased by comparing the same electrolysis capacity. Therefore, it is possible to further suppress the adherence of scales and scales in the electrolysis unit.

[0012]

BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION A dishwasher according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. FIG. 1 is a right side sectional view showing a schematic configuration of a dishwasher according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a waterway diagram of the dishwasher described above. In addition, in each drawing, an arrow indicating a direction is illustrated as necessary. In addition, the front, rear, left, right, up, and down directions are expressed with reference to the front view.

The dishwasher 1 is a tabletop type dishwasher which is installed on a sink and has a dish insertion opening 3 in a front portion 2, and the opening 3 faces forward and can be opened and closed. It is designed to be covered by the door 4. The planar shape of the dishwasher 1 is long in the front-rear direction and considerably short in the left-right direction, and when the dishwasher 1 is installed beside the sink of the sink, the door 4 can be arranged facing the front of the sink. It is like this. The dishwasher 1 is a cabinet 5 that forms an outer shape, and a dish that is disposed inside the cabinet 5 to wash dishes and the like (the dish P is shown in FIG. 1, hereinafter simply referred to as dish) as an object to be washed. Tank 6
The washing tank 6 has a dish basket 7 that is detachably accommodated and holds dishes. At the front part of the washing tank 6, the above-mentioned opening 3 for taking in and out dishes is formed, and the above-mentioned door 4 that covers the opening 3 and can be opened and closed is attached. By closing the door 4, the inside of the cleaning tank 6 can be sealed.

In the dishwasher 1, water from an external water supply facility (not shown) such as tap water is supplied to and stored in the cleaning tank 6 by the water supply mechanism 8, and the accumulated water is used as a cleaning liquid as a cleaning pump as a cleaning pump. 9 is sent to the nozzles 10, 11 and 12 as an injection mechanism, whereby the cleaning liquid is sprayed toward the dishes stored in the cleaning tank 6 to wash the dishes. As the injection mechanism, two arm-shaped nozzles 10 and 11 are arranged side by side in the front-rear direction below the tableware basket 7 inside the cleaning tank 6. Each of the arm-shaped nozzles 10 and 11 is fixed to the bottom portion 13 of the cleaning tank 6 and has a long, front-rear tubular nozzle base 1.
4 is rotatably supported around the vertical axis. Also,
An arm-shaped nozzle 12 is fixed to a side inner wall 15 of the cleaning tank 6 at a side of the tableware basket 7. The arm-shaped nozzle 12 extends from the nozzle base 14 along the inner wall 15. Each of these arm type nozzles 10, 1
Each of the nozzles 1 and 12 has a plurality of jet ports 16 (only a part of which are shown), and the washing water is jetted from each jet port 16 at the time of washing.

The water supply mechanism 8 has a pipe 47 and an electromagnetic valve 48 capable of opening and closing the pipe 47. At one end of tube 47,
A water supply port 49 that can be connected to an external water supply facility is provided. The other end of the pipe 47 is connected to a hole formed in the side wall of the rear portion of the cleaning tank 6 so that water can pass therethrough. The bottom portion 13 as the lower portion of the cleaning tank 6 is formed in a container shape, and the cleaning liquid supplied by the water supply mechanism 8 can be stored therein. The bottom portion 13 of the cleaning tank 6 has a water reservoir 17 that is one step lower, and a filter 18 for filtering the cleaning liquid to remove the residual food is provided on the water reservoir 17, and the water reservoir 17 is It communicates with the suction port 19 of the cleaning pump 9, and the discharge port 20 of this cleaning pump 9 is connected from the nozzle base 14 to each arm-shaped nozzle 10, 11, 12.

At the time of cleaning, the water supply mechanism 8 stores the cleaning liquid up to a predetermined water level in the bottom portion 13 of the cleaning tank 6. When the cleaning pump 9 is driven by being driven by the motor 21, the cleaning liquid is sucked from the water reservoir 17 of the cleaning tank 6 and is pressure-fed to the arm-shaped nozzles 10, 11, 12.
The rotatable arm-shaped nozzles 10 and 11 spray the cleaning liquid onto the dishes through the injection port 16 while rotating due to the reaction force when the cleaning liquid is jetted, particularly the horizontal component thereof, and wash the dishes evenly. In addition, the cleaning liquid is sprayed onto the dishes from the ejection port 16 of the fixed arm-shaped nozzle 12. After that, the cleaning liquid falls back to the bottom portion 13 of the cleaning tank 6 and returns to the cleaning pump 9, the arm type nozzles 10, 11,
Cleaning is performed while circulating to 12. After cleaning, the cleaning liquid is drained from the water reservoir 17 to the drain pipe 23 by the drain pump 22.
Is discharged to the outside through.

A heater 24 (see FIG. 2) is arranged on the bottom portion 13 of the cleaning tank 6. This heater 24
Is capable of warming the cleaning liquid stored in the bottom portion 13 of the cleaning tank 6 by being energized, and
The air in the cleaning tank 6 can be warmed during drying.
In addition, the cleaning tank 6 is filled with outside air during drying.
An air blower 25 (see FIG. 2) is provided to take in the inside of the fan. The blower device 25 includes a blower fan, a motor that drives the blower fan, and a casing that defines an air passage that communicates the inside and outside of the cleaning tank 6. During drying, the blower fan rotates and the heater 24 is driven. Air from the outside is taken into the cleaning tank 6 and warmed,
Dry the dishes after washing and then exhaust port (not shown)
Emitted from.

The dishwasher 1 of the present invention is provided with an electrolysis unit 30 for producing electrolyzed water used as a cleaning liquid. As a result, it is possible to obtain the cleaning effect of the electrolytic water and to use, for example, the detergent for cleaning the dishes. In particular, in the present embodiment, a circulation path 29 for returning a part of the cleaning liquid pumped out by the cleaning pump 9 to the lower part of the cleaning tank 6 is provided as a water passage, and an electrolysis unit 30 is provided in this circulation path 29. .

The circulation path 29 has a first communication passage 45 connected to the casing 72 of the cleaning pump 9, the inside of the electrolytic cell 31 of the electrolysis unit 30, and a second communication passage 46.
Each of these parts 45, 31, 46 is the bottom part 1 of the cleaning tank 6.
3 to suction pipe 28, washing pump 6 and nozzle base 1
It is partitioned as a separate chamber from the flow path for injection that reaches the plurality of injection ports 16 via 4. In the circulation path 29, the cleaning liquid is
From the first communication passage 45, through the inside of the electrolytic cell 31, to the second communication passage 46, the flow is made in this order. When the cleaning pump 9 is operated, the cleaning liquid flows from the water reservoir 17 through the suction pipe 28 into the casing 72 of the cleaning pump 9. Then, a part of the cleaning liquid from the cleaning pump 9 is returned to the bottom portion 13 of the cleaning tank 6 through the circulation path 29. Further, the rest of the cleaning liquid from the cleaning pump 9 excluding the above-mentioned part of the cleaning liquid passes through the flow path for injection, is injected from each injection port 16, drops, and is returned to the bottom portion 13 of the cleaning tank 6. .

As described above, the electrolyzed water produced by the electrolysis unit 30 is supplied to the cleaning tank 6 together with the cleaning liquid flowing through the circulation path 29, and is mixed with the cleaning liquid stored in the cleaning tank 6, whereby It is diluted and used as a cleaning liquid. Further, even with diluted electrolyzed water, the degree of electrolysis of electrolyzed water, that is, the so-called concentration, can be easily increased to a desired degree by repeating electrolysis. Therefore, the cleaning effect can be enhanced with a concentration suitable for cleaning, for example, concentrated electrolyzed water with a high degree of electrolysis, which is preferable for a dishwasher that tends to target severe dirt.

Further, since the cleaning liquid can be repeatedly electrolyzed during cleaning, even if the cleaning performance of electrolytic water is lowered due to reaction with dirt during cleaning, the cleaning performance of the lowered electrolytic water is increased,
The cleaning ability can be kept high. Further, by providing the circulation path 29 as a water passage communicating with the cleaning pump 9, the cleaning pump 9 can flow the cleaning liquid to the circulation path 29 and the electrolysis unit 30 during cleaning and rinsing. It is possible to suppress the attachment of residue and scales described below to the inside of 29 or the electrolysis unit 30. as a result,
For example, it is possible to prevent a short circuit between electrodes and a decrease in electrolytic efficiency due to adhesion of scale. In addition, it is possible to prevent a decrease in electrolysis efficiency due to the attachment of residual vegetables.

In particular, since the flow in the circulation path 29 is designed to flow from the cleaning pump 9 through the circulation path 29 to the bottom portion 13 of the cleaning tank 6, the cleaning liquid whose pressure is increased by the cleaning pump 9 is circulated. 29 and the electrolysis unit 30 can be surely flowed, and it is possible to more reliably suppress the attachment of residual food and scale to the circulation path 29 and the electrolysis unit 30. Further, when the electrolysis unit is provided in the injection flow path, it is assumed that the electrolysis unit interferes with the injection flow path and adversely affects the flow of the injection flow path. However, in the above-described circulation path 29, only a part of the flow of the cleaning liquid from the cleaning pump 6 flows, and furthermore, the outlet of the circulation path 29 does not merge with the injection flow path, so that the injection flow path There is almost no adverse effect on the flow, and therefore the cleaning effect of the jet can be maintained high.

The circulation path 29 is partitioned from the inside of the cleaning tank 6. Therefore, the electrolysis unit 30 provided in the circulation path 29 can easily prevent the user from accidentally touching the electrolysis unit 30. The electrolysis unit 30 is separated from the cleaning tank 6 as a separate room and has an electrolytic bath 31 as a water storage container of a predetermined internal volume capable of storing water therein, and a plurality of electrodes 32 arranged in the electrolytic bath 31. Have and. The electrolysis unit 30 is configured so that the electrolysis tank 31 and the plurality of electrodes 32 can be handled integrally. Each electrode 32 is made of a metal plate, particularly an electrode plate in which titanium is coated with platinum. This electrode plate is a plate material made of titanium or a titanium alloy having a platinum coating film formed on the entire surface thereof, and a known electrode plate can be used. Since this electrode plate has high corrosion resistance, high durability can be ensured even when obtaining concentrated electrolyzed water.

In the present embodiment, as shown in FIG. 3, the electrolysis unit 30 is covered with the cover 40 of the cabinet 5 and accommodated in the cabinet 5. The electrolysis unit 30 is arranged below the tableware basket 7 and on the side of the cleaning tank 6, for example, on the left side, and the bottom portion 13 of the cleaning tank 6 is disposed.
The side wall 42 and the cover 4 along the side wall 42 of the
It is placed in an empty space defined between 0 and 0 so that it does not interfere with the tableware storage space. The electrolysis unit 30 may be arranged on the right side or the rear side of the cleaning tank 6.

The first communication passage 45 is provided in the casing 72 of the cleaning pump 9 and the inlet 3 of the electrolytic cell 31 of the electrolysis unit 30.
It is formed by a tube which communicates with the tube 3. The cleaning pump 9 is
It is a centrifugal pump, and has an impeller 71 that sends water taken in from the center to the outside in the radial direction by rotating, and a spiral casing 72 that surrounds the impeller 71. The impeller 71 is one in which a plurality of blades radially extend in a radial direction on one plate surface of a rotating disk and stand upright. The casing 72 is provided with a first side wall 73 adjacent to an axial tip of a blade of the impeller 71 and having a suction port 19 formed in a central portion, and a disk of the impeller 71 and an axial direction which are arranged to face the first side wall 73. And a peripheral wall 75 that connects the outer peripheral edges of the side walls 73 and 74 to each other and is arranged outside the impeller 71 in the radial direction to form the discharge port 20. The casing 72 defines a flow path that connects the suction port 19 of the cleaning pump 9 to the discharge port 20, and the pressure of the cleaning liquid is increased in the middle of the flow path. First side wall 7 of casing 72 of cleaning pump 9
3, an opening is formed near the inner peripheral edge, for example, at a position adjacent to the suction port 19, and this opening is connected to the first communication passage 45. When the cleaning pump 9 is operated, a part of the cleaning liquid flowing through the flow path in the casing 72 flows into the first communication passage 45 through the opening of the casing 72, and most of the remaining cleaning liquid remains. Is outlet 20
Drained from.

Since the first communication passage 45 is connected to the position of the casing 72 near the suction port 19 along the flow in the casing 72, the first communication passage 45 is circulated as compared with the case of being connected to the position near the discharge port 20. The flow rate of the cleaning liquid flowing into the passage 29 can be suppressed to be small. In addition, the first communication passage 45
Is connected to the radially inner portion of the side wall 73 of the casing 72, it is possible to prevent the leftover food from flowing into the circulation path 29. This is because the foreign matter such as leftover food is usually heavier than water and subjected to a large centrifugal force in the centrifugal pump, and therefore tends to move along the portion of the casing 72 that is outward in the radial direction, for example, the peripheral wall 75. Because it is in.

The position of the inlet of the first communication passage 45 is not limited to the vicinity of the suction port 19. For example, the cleaning pump 9
The opening may be formed at a position of the casing 72 that is in the vicinity of the discharge port 20, and the opening may be connected to the first communication passage 45. Further, the nozzle base 14 and the like may be arranged on a member on the downstream side of the ejection port 20 along the above-mentioned jetting flow path. The point is that the first communication passage 45 can be connected to the position of the casing 72 that can apply the pressure for flowing the cleaning liquid into the circulation passage 29, and is more than the suction port 19 of the casing 72 of the cleaning pump 9 in the above-mentioned injection flow passage. Can also be branched on the downstream side.

Further, the first communication passage 45 is provided with an addition unit 52 for adding a chemical agent such as an electrolysis accelerator to water supplied to the electrolysis unit 30 through the first communication passage 45.
The drug is, for example, formed into a solid tablet having a predetermined shape,
It can be charged automatically and is designed to dissolve in water. Since the addition unit 52 is located on the upstream side of the electrolysis unit 30, the chemicals can be evenly supplied into the electrolysis unit 30 while mixing the chemical with water along with the flow of the circulation path 29. The position at which the addition unit 52 inputs the medicine is not particularly limited,
For example, it is conceivable that the addition unit 52 is provided in the electrolytic bath 31 of the electrolytic unit 30 and a chemical is put into the electrolytic bath 31. Further, the addition unit 52 may supply the chemicals to the bottom portion 13 of the cleaning tank 6, and even the chemicals thus supplied flow into the circulation path 29 and enter the electrolysis unit 30 as described above. Can be reached.

The addition unit 52 is electrically driven by a storage container 55 capable of storing a large number of tablets corresponding to a plurality of washings and a predetermined amount of tablets in the storage container 55, for example, a motor for taking out one tablet. The take-out mechanism 56 is provided. When the motor is driven, a predetermined amount of the medicine is introduced into the first communication passage 45 by the extraction mechanism 56 through the introduction port formed in the first communication passage 45. The take-out mechanism 56 can use a known structure. The addition unit 52 is configured so that the medicine can be added at a predetermined timing under the control of the control unit 60 as described later.

By the way, it is possible to obtain electrolyzed water by directly supplying electricity to tap water by utilizing impurities that are usually mixed in tap water, but for example, electrolysis efficiency may be lowered. Therefore, in order to accelerate the electrolysis of tap water, an addition unit 52 is provided, and the above-mentioned chemicals contain at least an electrolysis accelerator. The electrolysis accelerator contains a chloride compound and a compound containing an alkali metal. Examples of the chloride compound include sodium chloride (sodium chloride) and calcium chloride. Examples of the compound containing an alkali metal include sodium carbonate and sodium hydrogen carbonate. As the electrolysis promoter, a predetermined amount of a chloride compound and a predetermined amount of a compound containing an alkali metal are both contained in the tablet.

The electrolysis accelerator may be any of the above compounds,
Since electricity can be easily applied to water in a state of being dissolved in water, electrolysis efficiency can be increased as compared with the case where tap water is electrolyzed as it is. For example, concentrated electrolyzed water can be easily obtained, and hypochlorous acid and hypochlorite ions are easily generated, so that the concentration of hypochlorous acid and hypochlorite ions in electrolyzed water can be increased. As a result, the effect of bleaching tableware and the effect of sterilizing tableware can be enhanced. At the same time, since the degree of alkalinity of the electrolyzed water can be increased, the effect of dissolving and decomposing proteins can be increased.

The electrolysis accelerator can suppress variations in the cleaning effect of electrolyzed water between regions. That is, the conductivity of tap water usually differs depending on the region, and depending on the conductivity of water,
The easiness of current flow differs, and as a result, the degree of electrolysis of electrolyzed water differs when electrolyzing under the same conditions. However, by adding the above-mentioned electrolysis accelerator, the conductivity of the above-mentioned aqueous solution becomes significantly higher than that of tap water. Therefore, the conductivity of the water to be electrolyzed can be kept substantially constant at a value determined by the electrolysis promoter without being affected by the regional difference in the conductivity of tap water, and the degree of electrolysis of the generated electrolysis water, As a result, the cleaning effect can be almost constant. Further, when comparing the same amount of electric current that is passed to obtain electrolyzed water of a predetermined concentration, when the electrolysis promoter is added, the interval between the electrodes 32 can be widened, and the residue and scale can be prevented from adhering. . Due to impurities in the water, this scale is
2 is a solid layer deposited on the surface of the electrode 32. If such a scale adheres to the surface of the electrode 32, the electrolysis efficiency decreases, but in the present embodiment, the adhesion can be suppressed as described above.

In particular, in the case where the electrolysis accelerator contains a chloride compound, in addition to chlorine originally contained in tap water, the chloride compound contained in the electrolysis accelerator is dissolved in water to form chlorine in water. The concentration increases. Furthermore, the degree of electrolysis of electrolyzed water is increased by the action of the electrolysis accelerator. As a result, hypochlorous acid and hypochlorite ions are more easily generated in the electrolyzed water,
The concentration of hypochlorous acid and hypochlorite ion in the electrolyzed water is further increased, and the effects of bleaching tableware and sterilization are further enhanced. For example, when sodium chloride is used as the electrolysis accelerator, the predetermined amount of the electrolysis accelerator dissolves in water to give a predetermined concentration in the cleaning tank 6 and the electrolytic tank 31, for example, a concentration of 1% or less. Preferably, an aqueous solution is obtained. This is because if the concentration of the aqueous solution exceeds 1%, an excessive amount of chlorine may be generated when the aqueous solution is electrolyzed.

When the electrolysis accelerator contains a compound containing an alkali metal, the compound containing an alkali metal is dissolved in the electrolyzed water to further enhance the alkalinity of the electrolyzed water and thus the washing solution to enhance the protein content. The effect of dissolving can be further enhanced. For example, when sodium carbonate is used as the electrolysis accelerator, the predetermined amount is 0.3% sodium carbonate in the cleaning tank 6 and the electrolytic bath 31.
It is set so as to be an aqueous solution containing the above concentration, and the electrolyzed water obtained by electrolyzing the aqueous solution of this concentration is made to have the alkalinity of pH 10.5. With this washing liquid, the action of dissolving the protein adhering to the dishes can be obtained to a sufficient extent for washing the protein.

The drug may contain an enzyme such as amylase. Enzymes function as catalysts for chemical reactions that decompose dirt. In particular, amylase facilitates the decomposition of starch and the like. Since these chemicals are significantly cheaper than the detergent, the cost for cleaning can be reduced as compared with the case where the detergent is used for cleaning. Further, with the above-mentioned chemicals, even if the chemicals are discharged to the outside together with the cleaning liquid after cleaning, there is no fear of polluting the environment.

As the shape of the drug, for example, it may be considered that a protrusion is formed on the surface of the tablet to increase the surface area and make it easily soluble in water. In addition, as a drug, a plurality of three components of an electrolysis accelerator composed of a chloride compound, an electrolysis accelerator composed of a compound containing an alkali metal, and an enzyme,
For example, all components may be contained in one tablet. When all the components are contained in one tablet, only one type of tablet needs to be handled, and therefore it is easy to put them in the electrolytic cell 31 or the like, and for example, the structure of the addition unit 52 can be simplified. Further, each of the above-mentioned three components may be formed into a separate tablet, and in this case, the time and effort for mixing the three components during the production of the tablet can be omitted, and the tablet can be easily produced.

The electrolysis promoter is not limited to the case where both the chloride compound and the compound containing an alkali metal are contained, and for example, only one of the compounds may be contained. The structure of the addition unit 52 is not limited to the above. For example, the chemical may be manually added every cleaning operation. For example, a container for containing the medicine may be provided on the door 4, and the medicine may be dropped from the container into the cleaning tank 6 at a predetermined timing.
When the addition unit 52 is provided on the door 4 as described above,
It is preferable because it is easy for the user to handle.

A configuration in which the addition unit 52 is omitted may be considered. In this case, the structure can be simplified. Hereinafter, the case where the addition unit 52 is provided and the drug contains a chloride compound, a compound containing an alkali metal, and an enzyme will be mainly described. The second communication passage 46 is formed by a pipe,
The outlet 34 of the electrolytic cell 31 of the electrolysis unit 30 and the inside of the water reservoir 17 of the cleaning tank 6 communicate with each other, and are connected to an opening 43 formed in a side wall 42 of the water reservoir 17 below the cleaning tank 6.

The second communication passage 46 has a raised middle portion 54.
This portion 54 has an electrolytic cell 31 of the electrolytic unit 30.
Is higher than the outlet 34 and higher than the opening 43. As a result, it is possible to more reliably prevent the entry of the residual food into the electrolysis unit 30. The outlet of the second communication passage 46 may be connected to a portion which is the bottom portion 13 of the cleaning tank 6 and is separated from the filter 18 and in which residual food is hard to collect, but in the present embodiment, the outlet is connected as follows to perform cleaning. The pump 9 is designed to be quickly sucked.

Water reservoir 17 serving as an outlet of the second communication passage 46
The opening 43 is provided in the side wall 42 below the filter 18 where the cleaning liquid after being filtered by the filter 18 is stored. As a result, the cleaning liquid after filtration and the electrolyzed water are mixed. Further, since the leftover food can be prevented from reaching the outlet of the second communication passage 46, it is possible to prevent an unnecessary reaction between stains such as the leftover food and the electrolytic water. Therefore,
It is possible to prevent the cleaning effect of electrolytic water from being lowered before being used for cleaning due to such a reaction, and as a result, it is possible to effectively clean the dirt adhering to the dishes while maintaining a high cleaning effect of electrolytic water. be able to.

When the cleaning liquid sprayed on the dishes falls and collects on the bottom portion 13 of the cleaning tank 6, the filter 18 filters the cleaning liquid to pass it through and removes the residual foods that have fallen together with the cleaning liquid from the cleaning liquid. It is for doing. The filter 18 has a hole 58 formed in a mesh shape and through which the cleaning liquid passes. The hole 58 has, for example, a side length of about 2 mm.
Is formed by a rectangular mesh. Further, the opening 43 serving as the outlet of the second communication passage 46 has a smaller cross-sectional area than a portion on the upstream side of the opening 43. By thus narrowing a part of the opening 43, for example, the circulation path 2
The flow rate of the cleaning liquid flowing through 9 can be suppressed to a predetermined amount or less, and it functions as a flow rate suppressing means.

As described above, by controlling the flow rate, even if the same electrolysis unit is used, electrolysis can be carried out efficiently, so that the degree of electrolysis of electrolyzed water can be increased to obtain so-called concentrated electrolyzed water for cleaning. You can improve your ability. The flow rate may be suppressed so that the flow does not flow. Further, it is conceivable that the portion to be narrowed in order to suppress the flow rate is a portion other than the opening 43, and the point is that a part of the circulation path 29 may be narrowed.

Further, the simple structure of narrowing a part of the circulation path 29 is sufficient, and since the narrow part is only a part, clogging of the leftover food can be suppressed. In addition, the circuit 29
Since the structure itself has a small flow rate, the flow rate can be suppressed regardless of the operation of the cleaning pump 9. Further, since the cleaning liquid can be exchanged by the circulation path 29, the electrolytic bath 31
The internal volume may be small and can be downsized, and the amount of water stored in the cleaning tank 6 is approximately one third or less of the amount of water stored during cleaning. With such an internal volume, the electrolytic unit 30 can be housed in the cabinet 5 without enlarging the outer shape of the dishwasher 1. For example,
In this embodiment, the amount of water accumulated in the electrolytic bath 31 is set to about 1/10 of the amount of water accumulated in the cleaning tank 6 during cleaning.

As shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, the electrolytic cell 31 is formed of a synthetic resin material separately from the cleaning tank 6. The electrolytic cell 31 is detachably fixed to the base 41 of the cabinet 5 as a structural member by screwing. The cleaning tank 6 may be used as the structural member. The electrolytic cell 31 is formed in a thin box shape that is thinned in the left-right direction. The electrolytic cell 31 is composed of a pair of split bodies 35 and 36 that can be split up and down. A space between the divided bodies is sealed by a sealing member 37 such as an O-ring.

The upper portion of the electrolytic cell 31 has a protruding portion 38 that protrudes higher. The inside of the protruding portion 38 is an air reservoir without the water stored in the electrolytic cell 31 entering. As a result, the gas generated during electrolysis can be stored in the electrolytic bath 31 without being discharged to the outside, and the gas stored therein can be redissolved in the electrolyzed water to improve the electrolysis efficiency. The projecting portion 38 is arranged biased to the front part of the electrolytic cell 31. The electrodes 32 are arranged so as to be biased toward the rear side, which is the side far from the protrusion 38. The upper end of the electrode 32 is set to be lower than the water level H accumulated in the cleaning tank 6 during cleaning, and it is assumed that the water in the electrolytic cell 31 flows into the cleaning tank 6 through the second communication passage 46 due to the siphon effect. Also, the electrode 32 can be reliably submerged. The rear surface portion of the electrolytic cell 31 is adjacent to the electrode 32 so as to be adjacent thereto, and a pair of tubular extending portions extends rearward. The pipe of the second communication passage 46 and the pipe of the first communication passage 45 are connected to the extended portion. One extension on the lower side defines an inlet 33 for introducing water into the inside, and the other extension on the upper side defines an outlet 34 for discharging water from the inside.

The inlet 33 of the electrolytic cell 31 is arranged near the bottom of the electrolytic cell 31, for example, at a position corresponding to approximately the middle of the electrode 32 in the height direction. The outlet 34 is arranged at the upper end of the side of the electrolytic cell 31 and above the upper end of the electrode 32. Inlet 33 and outlet 3 of the electrolytic cell 31
4 are spaced apart from each other in the vertical direction, and are arranged so that water flows in the horizontal direction in opposite directions and in parallel. As a result, water enters from the inlet 33, flows in a wide area inside in a folded manner, and the electrolyzed water inside and tap water are uniformly mixed between them, and the electrolyzed water inside is efficiently pushed out, and the outlet 34
Can be flushed through. In addition, stagnation of water inside the electrolytic bath 31 and generation of air pockets near the electrodes 32 can be suppressed, and efficient electrolysis can be performed.

The outlet 34 of the electrolytic cell 31, which is the inlet of the second communication passage 46, is arranged at a position higher than the water level H of the cleaning liquid stored in the cleaning tank 6 during cleaning, The backflow of the cleaning liquid to the electrolysis unit 30 can be prevented. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the entry of the residual food into the electrolysis unit 30. Each of the electrodes 32 is in the shape of a rectangular thin plate having substantially the same shape, and the electrodes 32 are arranged so as to face each other such that the surfaces of the respective electrodes 32 face the thinning direction of the electrolytic cell 31, for example, the left-right direction. Since each electrode 32 stands upright, the gas generated on the surface of the electrode 32 at the time of electrolysis can be easily separated from the surface of the electrode 32, so that the reduction of the electrolysis efficiency due to the adhesion of the gas can be suppressed.

The lower ends of the electrodes 32 are held in the electrolytic bath 31 and are separated by a predetermined distance (D3). The electrodes 32 may be held at the left and right ends and the upper end parts. The number of the plurality of electrodes 32 is, for example, three. The plurality of electrodes 32 are a pair of electrodes 3 having opposite polarities.
Have two. For example, in the case of three electrodes 32,
The polarities of the electrodes 32 may be alternately switched so that the two electrodes 32 adjacent to each other have opposite polarities. The number of electrodes 32 may be four or five, and at least a pair of electrodes 32 may be provided.

The spacing between the electrodes 32 (see D3) and the spacing between the electrodes 32 and the inner wall 39 of the electrolytic cell 31 (see D4) are larger than the size of the holes 58 of the filter 18 (see D2). (D3> D2, D4> D2), and the gap is made larger than the size of the hole 58 of the filter 18, whereby clogging of dirt passing through the hole 58 of the filter 18 can be prevented. For example, it is preferable that the hole 58 has a size larger than the standard size of 2 mm, specifically, a size of 3 mm or more and 5 mm or less. Spacing is 3
This is because if the thickness is less than mm, the scale is likely to adhere to the electrode 32, the electrolysis efficiency is reduced, and a short circuit due to the adhered scale may occur.
Further, if the distance exceeds 5 mm, it is necessary to apply a high voltage in order to maintain high electrolysis efficiency, which makes it difficult to practically construct the device. Further, the distance (D4) between the electrode 32 and the electrolytic cell 31 may be the above-mentioned dimension, or 0, that is, no gap may be provided between the electrode 32 and the electrolytic cell 31.

When the distance between the electrodes 32 is 3 mm or more, even if the scale adheres to the electrodes 32, short-circuiting between the electrodes 32 via the scale can be prevented for a long period of time, and a standard household If it is used, there is no problem in practical use. The electrolysis water is generated as described below by the electrolysis unit 30, the cleaning tank 6 and the like, and exhibits a cleaning effect. That is, tap water is supplied into the cleaning tank 6,
When the cleaning pump 9 is operated, tap water is supplied to the cleaning tank 6
It flows from the inside into the electrolytic cell 31 through the circulation path 29 and is stored therein. At the same time, a chemical such as an electrolysis accelerator is poured into the stored water and mixed evenly. Note that it may be possible to collect tap water in the electrolytic tank 31 as the tap water is supplied to the cleaning tank 6. The tap water originally contains a trace amount of iron, calcium, magnesium, chlorine and the like, and in addition to this, the above-mentioned electrolysis accelerator is mixed. In this way, tap water is electrolyzed in the electrolytic cell 31 in a state of containing a large amount of inclusions to generate electrolyzed water. Further, the inside of the electrolytic bath 31 and the cleaning tank 6
By circulating a cleaning liquid such as tap water or electrolyzed water between the inside and the inside through the circulation path 29, the inside of the cleaning tank 6 is gradually filled with the electrolyzed water. Further, while the cleaning liquid circulates, it is electrolyzed and the electrolyzed water is gradually thickened.

By repeatedly electrolyzing while circulating to increase the degree of electrolysis, and by increasing the degree of electrolysis with the use of an electrolysis promoter, a compound containing an alkali metal becomes an electrolysis promoter. By being used, the degree of alkalinity of the electrolyzed water inside the cleaning tank 6, the electrolytic cell 31 and the like is strengthened. Also,
Hypochlorous acid (HClO) and hypochlorite ion (ClO-) are generated in the electrolyzed water in the electrolytic cell 31, and the degree of electrolysis is increased as described above, so that chlorine is further added to the electrolysis accelerator. The concentration of hypochlorous acid and hypochlorite ion is increased by using the compound. Hypochlorous acid and hypochlorite ions flow into the washing tank 6 through the circulation path 29 together with the electrolyzed water. Also,
Active oxygen is generated in the electrolyzed water in the electrolytic cell 31,
By increasing the degree of electrolysis as described above, the concentration is increased. Also, the cleaning tank 6 and the electrolytic cell 3
Enzymes are mixed in the electrolyzed water inside 1 and the like.

The electrolyzed water is supplied to the electrolytic cell 3 through the circulation path 29.
1 and the washing tank 6 are circulated. The cleaning liquid has a predetermined degree of electrolysis and a degree of alkalinity suitable for cleaning dishes, and hypochlorous acid and hypochlorite ions flow into the cleaning tank 6 together with electrolyzed water. In the cleaning tank 6, the dirt attached to the dishes is decomposed and dissolved by the effect of alkaline water, the effect of spraying the cleaning solution, the effect of hypochlorous acid and hypochlorite ion, and the effect of the enzyme, and is removed. In addition, the effects of hypochlorous acid and hypochlorite ions bleach tableware, for example, washing tea astringent and sterilizing. Further, since the cleaning liquid is strongly alkaline, it exhibits a high cleaning ability for proteins.
In addition, enzymes make starch easier to break down. The dirt removed from the tableware flows into the electrolytic cell 31 through the circulation path 29 together with the cleaning liquid, is decomposed by the effect of active oxygen, and prevents the dirt from reattaching to the tableware.

By repeatedly electrolyzing to generate concentrated electrolyzed water, the degree of alkalinity can be increased and hypochlorous acid or hypochlorous acid can be obtained, for example, even when the above-mentioned agent that enhances alkalinity is not used. The concentration of ions can be increased. As a result, the cleaning ability can be improved.
In addition, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the dishwasher 1 includes a control unit 60 that controls each of the above-described units according to a predetermined procedure to execute a washing operation, and a driving operation that is connected to the control unit 60. And an operation panel 61 for operating.

The control unit 60 includes, for example, a microcomputer (CPU), RAM, ROM, timer and the like, and controls the motor 21 and the like based on a program stored in advance and a signal from a switch of the operation panel 61. Perform cleaning. The control unit 60 controls the rotation of the motor 21 via a drive circuit (not shown), and switches the rotation direction of the motor 21 to operate the washing pump 9 and the drainage pump 22.
And the operation of. Further, the motor 21 can be driven in a predetermined manner, for example, intermittently. Further, the control unit 60 is configured to be able to control the energization to the plurality of electrodes 32 of the electrolysis unit 30 via the energization circuit 63 having a transformer or the like. Although not shown, a water level sensor that detects the water level in the cleaning tank 6 is connected to the control unit 60, and the electromagnetic valve 48 is operated to store water to a predetermined water level. In addition, the control unit 60
Is connected to the heater 24 and the blower 25 via a drive circuit (not shown).

On the operation panel 61, a power key (not shown) for turning on the power, a start key 62 as a cleaning start means for starting cleaning, and a course as selection means for selecting a cleaning course. And a key (not shown). By operating the koskey, it is possible to select either the cleaning course or the electrolytic water course. In the detergent course, a standard washing operation is performed using detergent. In the electrolyzed water course, a cleaning operation is performed by using electrolyzed water as a cleaning liquid without using a detergent.

The control unit 60 executes the following processes based on the program stored in advance. Please refer to the flowchart of FIG. 5 and FIG. When the electrolyzed water course is selected, the control unit 60 executes the pre-washing execution process (step S1) executed by the start key 62 to remove rough dirt adhering to the dishes and the dish rinsing after the pre-washing execution process. Preliminary rinsing treatment (step S2), electrolyzed water generation washing treatment (step S3) of washing while generating electrolyzed water in the electrolysis unit 30 after preliminary rinsing treatment, and main washing of dishes using the generated electrolyzed water as a cleaning liquid Main washing execution processing (step S4) for performing the above, and first to third rinse execution processing (step S5) for performing rinsing after the main washing.
6, 7) and a drying execution process (step S8) for drying the washed dishes.

In the prewashing process, the water supply mechanism 8 is opened to collect water in the washing tank 6 for prewashing. The cleaning pump 9 is operated for a predetermined time, for example, 10 minutes, and the heater 24 is not energized and cleaned with water at room temperature. Then drained.
In the preliminary rinsing process, the water supply mechanism 8 is opened and water is stored in the cleaning tank 6 for rinsing. The cleaning pump 9 is operated for a predetermined time,
For example, the heater 24 is operated for 1 minute, and the heater 24 is not energized and rinsed with water at room temperature. Then drained. The predetermined time here is shorter than the operating time of the cleaning pump 9 in the pre-cleaning execution process.

The combination of the pre-washing process and the preliminary rinsing process may be executed a plurality of times. In addition, the operating time of the cleaning pump 9 in the pre-cleaning execution process may be extended or the heater 24 may be energized. In these cases, the cleaning effect can be further enhanced. When the operating time of the cleaning pump 9 is extended, it is desirable that the operating time be such that no bubbles are generated due to dirt. In addition, when the heater 24 is energized, it is preferable that the water temperature does not exceed 45 ° C. because the protein is not solidified and can be easily dropped.

In the pre-washing execution process, water is supplied into the washing tank 6, and the electrolytic unit 30 is not operated at this time.
The chemicals may be poured into tap water by the addition unit 52 to obtain a cleaning liquid containing the chemicals, and the cleaning liquid may be used to clean the dishes in the cleaning tank 6. That is, even if it is not electrolyzed water, by mixing the above-mentioned chemicals, the alkalinity of the cleaning liquid is increased to some extent, and proteins can be easily removed during pre-washing, and starch can be easily removed by the enzyme of the chemicals.

The electrolytic water generation washing treatment is carried out after the water used in the preliminary rinsing is drained from the washing tank 6. In the electrolytic water generation washing process, first, water is supplied up to a predetermined water level in the washing tank 6. Then, the medicine is added by the addition unit 52. Then, the plurality of electrodes 32 are continuously energized for a predetermined time, for example, 30 minutes. Electrode 32
While the power is being supplied to the
From a predetermined mode such that the flow rate of the circulation path 29 can be suppressed, for example, after driving for 10 seconds, 170
It is operated in such a manner that an intermittent cycle with a drive stop for a second is repeated (see FIG. 6). Further, the heater 24 is not energized, and water at room temperature is electrolyzed. This is because the electrolysis efficiency of water at room temperature is higher than that of warm water.

In the electrolytic water generation washing process, while the cleaning pump 9 is stopped, the cleaning liquid that has not flowed in the electrolytic bath 31 is efficiently electrolyzed to generate concentrated electrolytic water. When the washing pump 9 is driven, electrolyzed water is mixed with the washing liquid and sprayed onto the dishes, and at the same time, the washing liquid flows through the circulation path 29 to separate the washing liquid in the washing tank 6 and the washing liquid in the electrolysis unit 30. Can be replaced. here,
As the predetermined water level to be supplied in the electrolytic water generation washing process,
The water level is the same as the water level for main washing. In addition, the predetermined water level is lower than the water level for the main washing, and is a water level at which the plurality of electrodes 32 are submerged and the electrolytic bath 31 is almost filled with water. The water level may be such that it can be injected into the water. In order to start the electrolysis, the water level may be such that at least a part of the plurality of electrodes 32 is submerged. In addition, the electrolytic water generation washing process does not drain water.

In addition, in the electrolytic water generation washing process, the control unit 6
By operating the cleaning pump 9 intermittently, 0 functions as the above-mentioned flow rate suppressing means. As a result, the cleaning liquid in the circulation path 29 can be intermittently stopped or the flow velocity can be reduced to suppress the average flow rate during the time of this treatment, and efficient electrolysis can be performed to obtain concentrated electrolyzed water. it can. As the operation of the cleaning pump 9 for suppressing the flow rate, the number of rotations for driving the cleaning pump 9 may be periodically increased or decreased, but in the mode in which the cleaning pump 9 is continuously driven in this manner, The flow in the electrolytic cell 31 is easily maintained, and the electrolysis efficiency may decrease. On the other hand, in the mode of intermittently turning on and off as described above, the flow in the electrolytic cell 31 can be easily stopped, the electrolysis efficiency can be increased, and the structure can be simple.

Further, in order to suppress the flow rate, the cleaning pump 9
Since the control of the operation is used, the operation can be performed more easily than the case where the water channel is narrowed. Further, by changing the mode of operation, for example, by changing the interval of intermittent operation, it is possible to easily adjust to a desired flow rate. In addition, the washing pump 9 operates to operate the circulation path 29 even during the process of producing electrolyzed water.
Since a flow occurs in the soil, it is possible to suppress the attachment of leftovers and scales. The main washing execution process uses the water stored in the washing tank 6, the first and second communication passages 45 and 46, the electrolysis unit 30 and the like in the electrolytic water generation washing process. When the water accumulated in the electrolytic water generation washing process does not reach the predetermined water level in the main washing execution process, the water is supplied to this water level. In the main washing, the washing pump 9 is operated for a predetermined time, for example, 5 minutes. Then, the heater 24 is energized to heat the water from room temperature to a predetermined temperature, for example, 60 ° C.
While the washing pump 9 is operating, the heater 24 keeps the water temperature and washing is performed with a high-temperature washing liquid containing electrolyzed water. Then drained.

In the main washing, the action of the alkaline component of the electrolyzed water, the action of hypochlorous acid and its ions, and the action of a high water temperature, in particular, by gradually raising the water temperature during washing, it is possible to remove proteins, starch, etc. Efficiently decomposes and cleans dirt. That is, tea astringent and protein are efficiently washed with electrolyzed water at a relatively low temperature. Hypochlorous acid has a high cleaning effect at a temperature of 30 ° C or lower. Subsequent relatively high temperature electrolyzed water can efficiently clean starch and oil stains.

As described above, the rough dirt is removed by the prewash and discharged to the outside. In the main wash, the electrolytic water is sprayed only on the dirt remaining on the tableware without being removed by the prewash, and the electrolytic water is effectively discharged. It can be utilized to enhance the cleaning effect. That is, it is possible to prevent an unnecessary reaction between the dirt removed by the pre-washing and the electrolyzed water, and thus it is possible to prevent the cleaning effect of the electrolyzed water from being lowered due to such a reaction. In addition, since the cleaning solution containing electrolytic water is intermittently sprayed onto the dishes during the electrolytic water generation washing process, the stains remaining on the dishes can easily be removed during the main washing, and as a result, the main washing can be performed for a short time. Can be done in

In the first and second rinsing execution processing, the water supply mechanism 8 is opened and water is stored in the cleaning tank 6 for rinsing.
The cleaning pump 9 is operated for a predetermined time, for example, 1 minute,
The heater 24 is not energized and is rinsed with water at room temperature. Then drained. In the third rinsing execution process, the water supply mechanism 8 is opened and water is stored in the cleaning tank 6 to perform rinsing. The heater 24 is energized and the water is heated to a predetermined temperature, for example,
Warm until it reaches 70 ° C. And the cleaning pump 9 is
The heater 24 is operated for a predetermined time, for example, 20 minutes, and during that time, the heater 24 is energized to keep the water temperature and rinse with high-temperature rinse water. The high-temperature rinsing water has a bactericidal effect, and even if stubborn oil stains remain, they can be reliably removed. Then drained.

As described above, since water can be passed through the electrolysis unit 30 in conjunction with the washing pump 9, the inside of the electrolysis unit 30 can be washed during the entire process except during drying, and rust caused by the electrolysis accelerator can be prevented. it can. In addition, since the attachment of the leftover food can be suppressed, it is possible to suppress the decrease in the electrolysis efficiency due to the leftover food. Further, since adhesion of scale can be suppressed, it is possible to suppress a short circuit between the electrodes 32 caused by the scale and a decrease in electrolysis efficiency. Further, it is possible to suppress the electrolyzed water from remaining inside the electrolysis unit 30, so that the durability can be improved.

By performing the rinsing execution processing a plurality of times (first to third rinsing execution processing), the electrolysis accelerator adhering to the inside of the cleaning tank 6 can be reliably discharged to the outside. It can prevent the generation of rust. In addition, you may operate the electrolysis unit 30 at the time of rinsing (1st-2nd rinsing execution process), and may rinse using electrolyzed water. Thereby, it is possible to sterilize the tableware.

In the drying execution process, the blower device 25 is operated for a predetermined time, for example, 20 minutes, during which the heater 24 is energized and the dishes are dried with a warm air flow. Further, the control unit 60, when the detergent course is selected,
The electrolytic water generation washing treatment is omitted, and the above-described respective treatments other than the main washing are executed in the same manner. In the main washing of the detergent course, water is supplied to a predetermined water level and the dishes are washed with the detergent for a longer time.

As described above, according to the embodiment of the present invention, the dishes can be washed with the electrolytic water without using the detergent. In addition, while repeatedly replacing the cleaning liquid by the circulation path 29,
Since electrolysis can be performed in the electrolysis unit 30, concentrated electrolyzed water can be obtained and the cleaning effect can be enhanced. During the cleaning and rinsing of the electrolysis unit 30 by the cleaning pump 9 through the circulation path 29, water is almost always constantly supplied, and it is possible to suppress the attachment of leftovers and scales.

Note that both the opening 43, which is a narrowed portion of the circulation path 29, and the control content for intermittently operating the cleaning pump 9 have been used as the above-mentioned flow rate suppressing means, but whichever is used. It is possible to use only one of them.
Further, a configuration that does not use the flow rate suppressing means is also conceivable. For example, it is also conceivable to increase the amount of current to the electrolysis unit 30 or increase the energization time to obtain concentrated electrolyzed water. Further, the electrolysis unit 30 may be arranged at an end portion other than the middle of the circulation path 29. Further, in the above-described embodiment, the circulation path 29 allows the cleaning liquid to flow out from the cleaning pump 9, but the invention is not limited to this. For example, a water passage through which the cleaning liquid is sucked into the cleaning pump 9 from the lower portion of the cleaning tank 6 and flows therein may be provided. For this waterway,
For example, it can be configured by a pipe connecting the water reservoir 17 and the inlet 33 of the electrolytic bath 31, a electrolytic bath 31, and a pipe connecting the suction pipe 28 and the outlet 34 of the electrolytic bath 31. When the washing pump 9 is operated, water flows from the water reservoir 17 through the electrolytic cell 31 to the suction pipe 28 in the water passage. Moreover, you may combine the above-mentioned flow volume control means with the above-mentioned water passage.

Further, in the above description, the case where both the chloride compound and the compound containing an alkali metal are contained as the electrolysis promoter has been described, but the present invention is not limited to this. That is, when both are included, the above-mentioned cleaning effect can be enhanced, which is preferable. On the other hand, there are cases where it is not necessary to enhance the cleaning effect so much for only light dirt. Correspondingly, when setting a cleaning course for light dirt, as the electrolysis accelerator, use only one of a chloride compound and a compound containing an alkali metal, or any electrolysis accelerator It can be considered not to use it (in this case, tap water is directly electrolyzed). Also, use an electrolysis accelerator consisting only of chloride compounds in combination with an enzyme, use an electrolysis accelerator consisting only of compounds containing an alkali metal in combination with an enzyme, and put in only a drug containing only enzymes. It is also possible to

The present invention may be applied to other types of dishwashers such as a tabletop type and a built-in type to be accommodated in a sink. Further, the planar shape of the dishwasher 1 may be elongated in the front-rear direction, may be elongated in the left-right direction, or may be formed in a substantially square shape. Besides, various modifications can be made within the scope of the claims of the present invention.

[Brief description of drawings]

FIG. 1 is a partial side sectional view of a schematic configuration of a dishwasher showing an embodiment of the present invention.

2 is a block diagram of the waterway and electrical configuration of the dishwasher of FIG.

3 is a partial front sectional view of the vicinity of an electrolysis unit of the dishwasher of FIG.

FIG. 4 is a partial side cross-sectional view of the electrolytic unit of the dishwasher of FIG. 1 and its vicinity.

5 is a flow chart of the dishwasher of FIG.

FIG. 6 is a timing chart of the operation of the dishwasher of FIG.

[Explanation of symbols]

1 dishwasher 6 washing tank 9 Washing pump (pumping means) 13 Bottom of wash tank (bottom of wash tank) 18 filters 29 Circulation route (water passage) 30 electrolysis unit 31 Electrolyzer (circulation path) 43 openings (narrow part of circulation path, flow control means) 45 First communication path (circulation path) 46 Second communication path (circulation path) 52 Addition unit 60 control unit (flow rate suppressing means) P tableware

   ─────────────────────────────────────────────────── ─── Continued front page    (72) Inventor Kagomune             2-5-3 Keihan Hondori, Moriguchi City, Osaka Prefecture             Within Yo Denki Co., Ltd. (72) Inventor Yasuhisa Fukui             2-5-3 Keihan Hondori, Moriguchi City, Osaka Prefecture             Within Yo Denki Co., Ltd. (72) Inventor Tetsuo Harada             2-5-3 Keihan Hondori, Moriguchi City, Osaka Prefecture             Within Yo Denki Co., Ltd. F term (reference) 3B082 BD04 CC00

Claims (7)

[Claims] 1. A dishwasher for washing dishes by storing the washing liquid in a washing tank and spraying the washing liquid toward the dishes contained in the washing tank. The dishwasher is sprayed onto the dishes and drops to the bottom of the washing tank. Pumping means for pumping out the cleaning liquid to be sprayed toward the tableware and a part of the cleaning liquid pumped out by the pumping means,
A dishwasher comprising: a water passage that connects the pumping means and a lower portion of the washing tank; and an electrolysis unit that is provided in the water passage and that electrolyzes a cleaning liquid flowing through the water passage to generate electrolyzed water. 2. The dishwasher according to claim 1, wherein the water passage comprises a circulation passage for returning a part of the washing liquid pumped out by the pumping means to the lower portion of the washing tank. 3. The dishwasher according to claim 2, wherein the washing tank is provided with a filter for filtering the washing liquid sprayed on the dishes when the washing liquid drops and accumulates at the bottom of the washing tank. The passage is a dishwasher characterized by returning the cleaning liquid to the lower part of the cleaning tank so that electrolytic water is mixed with the filtered cleaning liquid. 4. The dishwasher according to any one of claims 1 to 3, further comprising a flow rate suppressing means for suppressing a flow rate of the cleaning liquid flowing through the water passage to a predetermined amount or less, and the flow rate suppressing means causes the electrolysis unit to operate. A dishwasher characterized by increasing the degree of electrolysis of electrolyzed water. 5. The dishwasher according to claim 4, wherein the flow rate suppressing means includes a water passage whose part is narrowed. 6. The dishwasher according to claim 4, wherein the flow rate suppressing means includes control means for intermittently operating the pumping means. 7. The dishwasher according to claim 1, further comprising an addition unit for adding an electrolysis accelerator to the electrolysis unit.