JP2004057855A - Ion elution unit and washing machine with the same loaded thereon - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To make immediately understandable the abrasion of an electrode in an ion elution unit for eluting metal ions into water for the purpose of the antibacterial treatment of a washing material. <P>SOLUTION: The ion elution unit 110 to be mounted on a washing machine 1 is constituted so that at least a part of a case 110 has a see-through part 170 through which internal electrodes 113 and 114 can be visibly confirmed. Graduations 170 and 170a are formed to the see-through part 170. By comparing the graduations with the electrodes 113 and 114, it can be known that whether the electrodes keep sufficient volumes to withstand the use of the electrodes or not and whether they should be exchanged or not. During the elution of metal ions, an illumination means 172 illuminates the electrodes 113 and 114. The ion elution unit 100 is arranged at a position capable of visibly confirmed from the outside of the washing machine 1. The ion elution unit 100 is attached to the washer 1 in a replaceable state. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2004,JPO

Description

[0001]
TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to a washing machine capable of subjecting laundry to antibacterial treatment with metal ions.
[0002]
[Prior art]
When washing in a washing machine, it is common to add a finishing substance to water, in particular to rinsing water. Common finishing materials are softeners and glues. In addition, recently, there is an increasing need for a finishing treatment for imparting antibacterial properties to laundry.
[0003]
It is desirable that the laundry be sun-dried from a sanitary viewpoint. However, in recent years, the number of families who have no one at home during the daytime has increased due to the increase in the female employment rate and the progress of nuclear families. In such a home, you have to rely on indoor drying. Even in a home where somebody is at home during the day, when it rains, it will dry indoors.
[0004]
In the case of indoor drying, bacteria and mold are more likely to propagate on the laundry than in the case of sun drying. This tendency is remarkable when it takes a long time to dry the laundry, such as at a high humidity or a low temperature such as during the rainy season. Depending on the breeding situation, the laundry may give off a bad smell.
[0005]
Recently, there has been an increasing awareness of savings, and many households reuse bath water after washing for washing. However, the bath water left overnight has an increased number of bacteria, and the bacteria adhere to the laundry and further propagate, causing a problem of causing an offensive odor.
[0006]
For this reason, in households that are forced to dry indoors or reuse bathroom water for washing, there is a strong demand for antibacterial treatment of cloths in order to suppress the growth of bacteria and mold.
[0007]
In recent years, there has been an increase in the number of garments that have been subjected to antibacterial and deodorant treatments and bacteriostatic treatments. However, it is difficult to prepare all household textiles with antibacterial and deodorized products. In addition, the effect of antibacterial and deodorant processing decreases as washing is repeated.
[0008]
This led to the idea of treating laundry with antibacterial treatment each time it was washed. For example, Japanese Unexamined Utility Model Publication No. 5-74487 discloses an electric washing machine equipped with an ion generator that generates metal ions having a sterilizing power such as silver ions and copper ions. Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2000-93691 describes a washing machine in which a cleaning liquid is sterilized by generating an electric field. Japanese Patent Laying-Open No. 2001-276484 describes a washing machine provided with a silver ion addition unit for adding silver ions to washing water.
[0009]
Although not limited to a washing machine, a sterilizing and purifying apparatus for purifying water with ions is described in Japanese Utility Model Laid-Open No. 63-126099.
[0010]
[Problems to be solved by the invention]
Among the methods of performing an antibacterial treatment in the washing process, those using metal ions have a large effect and are practical. After dehydration, until the laundry is dry, the metal, for example, silver, exists as ions and exerts a bactericidal action. After the laundry has dried, silver is present not as ions but as silver salts, but when wet again, it ionizes again and restores bactericidal activity. The metal ions elute from the electrodes by immersing the pair of electrodes in water and applying a voltage between the electrodes. Therefore, as the electrode is used, the electrode gradually wears out and the elution amount of metal ions decreases. If used for a long time, the elution amount of metal ions becomes unstable or a predetermined elution amount cannot be secured.
[0011]
The present invention has been made in view of the above points, and in an ion elution unit that elutes metal ions in water for antibacterial treatment of laundry, it has become impossible to elute a predetermined amount of metal ions due to depletion of electrodes. A first object is to provide an ion elution unit that can be easily understood. Also, it is an object of the present invention to provide a washing machine which can carry out antibacterial treatment on laundry by mounting such an ion eluting unit and can replace the ion eluting unit when the ion eluting unit cannot function sufficiently. As a second object.
[0012]
[Means for Solving the Problems]
In order to achieve the above object, in the present invention, the ion elution unit is configured as follows.
[0013]
(1) In an ion elution unit that generates metal ions by applying a voltage between the electrodes, at least a part of the case is a transparent portion through which the internal electrodes can be viewed.
[0014]
According to this configuration, the state of the electrodes inside the ion elution unit can be directly confirmed by eyes.
[0015]
(2) In the ion elution unit as described above, a scale for determining a shape change of the electrode is formed on the case.
[0016]
According to this configuration, it is possible to accurately determine whether or not the electrode maintains a volume sufficient for use by using the scale.
[0017]
(3) In the ion elution unit as described above, the scale includes an index of electrode replacement.
[0018]
According to this configuration, the timing at which the electrode should be replaced becomes clear, and the ion elution unit can continue to exhibit the expected performance.
[0019]
(4) In the ion elution unit as described above, illumination means for the electrodes is provided.
[0020]
According to this configuration, even if the ion elution unit is placed in the dark or the case surface is dirty and visibility is reduced, the electrodes are illuminated, so that the shape and state of the electrodes can be recognized firmly. Can be.
[0021]
(5) In the ion elution unit as described above, the illumination means is turned on during the elution of metal ions.
[0022]
According to this configuration, it can be seen at a glance that the ion elution unit is in operation.
[0023]
Further, in the present invention, the washing machine is configured as follows.
[0024]
(6) The ion eluting unit as described above is mounted in a washing machine so as to be replaceable, so that metal ions can be added to water and used.
[0025]
According to this configuration, antibacterial treatment can be performed on the laundry by adding metal ions to the water used in the washing machine, and the ion eluting unit that has reached the end of its life is replaced to continue the antibacterial treatment function. be able to.
[0026]
(7) In the washing machine as described above, the ion eluting unit is disposed at a position that can be visually recognized from the outside.
[0027]
According to this configuration, it is possible to immediately recognize that the washing machine has the ability of antibacterial treatment with metal ions, and to constantly check the status of the ion elution unit.
[0028]
BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION
Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.
[0029]
FIG. 1 is a vertical sectional view showing the entire configuration of the washing machine 1. The washing machine 1 is of a fully automatic type and includes an outer box 10. The outer box 10 has a rectangular parallelepiped shape and is formed of metal or synthetic resin, and the upper and lower surfaces thereof have openings. An upper surface plate 11 made of synthetic resin is stacked on the upper surface opening of the outer case 10 and fixed to the outer case 10 with screws. In FIG. 1, the left side is the front of the washing machine 1, and the right side is the back. A back panel 12 made of synthetic resin is also stacked on the upper surface of the upper surface plate 11 located on the back side, and is fixed to the upper surface plate 11 with screws. A base 13 made of synthetic resin is placed on the bottom opening of the outer case 10 and fixed to the outer case 10 with screws. None of the screws described so far are shown.
[0030]
At four corners of the base 13, legs 14a and 14b for supporting the outer box 10 on the floor are provided. The rear leg 14 b is a fixed leg integrally formed on the base 13. The legs 14a on the front side are screw legs of variable height, which are turned to level the washing machine 1.
[0031]
A laundry input port 15 for inputting laundry into a washing tub described later is formed in the upper surface plate 11. A lid 16 covers the laundry inlet 15 from above. The lid 16 is connected to the upper plate 11 by a hinge 17 and rotates in a vertical plane.
[0032]
A water tub 20 and a washing tub 30 also serving as a dehydration tub are arranged inside the outer box 10. Both the water tub 20 and the washing tub 30 have the shape of a cylindrical cup with an open upper surface, and are arranged concentrically with their axes perpendicular to each other, with the water tub 20 outside and the washing tub 30 inside. The suspension member 21 suspends the water tank 20. The suspension members 21 are provided at a total of four places so as to connect the lower portion of the outer surface of the water tank 20 and the inner corner of the outer box 10 and support the water tank 20 so that it can swing in a horizontal plane.
[0033]
The washing tub 30 has a peripheral wall that extends upward and has a gentle taper. Except for a plurality of dehydration holes 31 arranged annularly at the top of this peripheral wall, there is no opening through which liquid passes. That is, the washing tub 30 is a so-called “holeless” type. At the edge of the upper opening of the washing tub 30, an annular balancer 32 that functions to suppress vibration when the washing tub 30 is rotated at a high speed for dehydrating the laundry is mounted. On the inner bottom surface of the washing tub 30, a pulsator 33 for causing a flow of washing water or rinsing water in the tub is arranged.
[0034]
The drive unit 40 is mounted on the lower surface of the water tank 20. The drive unit 40 includes a motor 41, a clutch mechanism 42, and a brake mechanism 43, and has a dewatering shaft 44 and a pulsator shaft 45 projecting upward from the center thereof. The dewatering shaft 44 and the pulsator shaft 45 have a double shaft structure with the dewatering shaft 44 on the outside and the pulsator shaft 45 on the inside. After the dewatering shaft 44 enters the water tub 20, the dewatering shaft 44 is connected to the washing tub 30. Support this. The pulsator shaft 45 further enters the washing tub 30 and is connected to and supports the pulsator 33. Seal members for preventing water leakage are arranged between the dewatering shaft 44 and the water tank 20 and between the dewatering shaft 44 and the pulsator shaft 45, respectively.
[0035]
A water supply valve 50 that opens and closes electromagnetically is arranged in a space below the back panel 12. A connection pipe 51 and a water supply pipe 52 extend from the water supply valve 50. A water supply hose (not shown) for supplying tap water such as tap water is connected to the connection pipe 51. The water supply pipe 52 is connected to a container-like water supply port 53. The water supply port 53 is located at a position facing the inside of the washing tub 30, and has a structure shown in FIG.
[0036]
FIG. 2 is a schematic vertical cross-sectional view of the water supply port 53, as viewed from the front side. The upper surface of the water supply port 53 is open, and the inside is divided into right and left. The compartment on the left is a detergent room 54, which is a preparation space for storing detergent. The compartment on the right side is a finishing agent room 55, which is a preparation space for storing a finishing agent for washing. On the front side of the bottom of the detergent chamber 54, a horizontally long water inlet 56 for injecting water into the washing tub 30 is provided. A siphon section 57 is provided in the finishing agent chamber 55.
[0037]
The siphon portion 57 includes an inner tube 57a that rises vertically from the bottom surface of the finishing agent chamber 55, and a cap-shaped outer tube 57b that covers the inner tube 57a. A gap through which water passes is formed between the inner pipe 57a and the outer pipe 57b. The bottom of the inner tube 57a opens toward the inside of the washing tub 30. The lower end of the outer tube 57b keeps a predetermined gap with the bottom surface of the finishing agent chamber 55, and this serves as an inlet for water. When water is poured into the finishing agent chamber 55 to a level exceeding the upper end of the inner pipe 57a, a siphon action occurs, and the water is sucked out of the finishing agent chamber 55 through the siphon portion 57 and falls into the washing tub 30.
[0038]
The water supply valve 50 includes a main water supply valve 50a and a sub water supply valve 50b. The connection pipe 51 is common to both the main water supply valve 50a and the sub water supply valve 50b. The water supply pipe 52 also includes a main water supply pipe 52a connected to the main water supply valve 50a and a sub water supply pipe 52b connected to the sub water supply valve 50b.
[0039]
The main water supply pipe 52a is connected to the detergent chamber 54, and the sub water supply pipe 52b is connected to the finishing agent chamber 55. In other words, the path from the main water supply pipe 52a to the washing tub 30 through the detergent chamber 54 is different from the path from the sub water supply pipe 52b to the washing tub 30 through the finishing agent chamber 55.
[0040]
Returning to FIG. 1, the description will be continued. A drain hose 60 for draining water in the water tub 20 and the washing tub 30 out of the outer box 10 is attached to the bottom of the water tub 20. Water flows into the drain hose 60 from a drain pipe 61 and a drain pipe 62. The drain pipe 61 is connected to a location near the outer periphery of the bottom surface of the water tank 20. The drain pipe 62 is connected to a location near the center of the bottom surface of the water tank 20.
[0041]
An annular partition 63 is fixed to the inner bottom surface of the water tank 20 so as to surround the connection point of the drain pipe 62 inside. An annular seal member 64 is attached to the upper part of the partition 63. When the sealing member 64 comes into contact with the outer peripheral surface of the disk 65 fixed to the bottom outer surface of the washing tub 30, an independent drainage space 66 is formed between the water tub 20 and the washing tub 30. The drain space 66 communicates with the inside of the washing tub 30 through a drain port 67 formed at the bottom of the washing tub 30.
[0042]
The drain pipe 62 is provided with a drain valve 68 that opens and closes electromagnetically. An air trap 69 is provided at a location on the drain pipe 62 on the upstream side of the drain valve 68. A pressure guiding tube 70 extends from the air trap 69. A water level switch 71 is connected to an upper end of the pressure guiding tube 70.
[0043]
A control unit 80 is arranged on the front side of the outer box 10. The control unit 80 is placed below the top plate 11, receives an operation command from a user through an operation / display unit 81 provided on the top surface of the top plate 11, and receives a drive unit 40, a water supply valve 50, and a drain valve. At 68, an operation command is issued. The control unit 80 issues a display command to the operation / display unit 81. The control unit 80 includes a drive circuit of an ion elution unit described later.
[0044]
The operation of the washing machine 1 will be described. The lid 16 is opened, and the laundry is put into the washing tub 30 from the laundry inlet 15. A detergent is put in the detergent chamber 54 of the water supply port 53. If necessary, a finishing agent is put into the finishing agent chamber 55 of the water supply port 53. The finish may be added during the washing process.
[0045]
After the preparation for the introduction of the detergent is completed, the lid 16 is closed, and the operation buttons on the operation / display unit 81 are operated to select the washing conditions. Finally, when the start button is pressed, the washing process is performed according to the flowcharts of FIGS.
[0046]
FIG. 3 is a flowchart showing the entire washing process. In step S201, it is determined whether or not a reserved driving operation for starting washing at a set time has been selected. If the reserved operation has been selected, the process proceeds to step S206. If not, the process proceeds to step S202.
[0047]
When the process proceeds to step S206, it is confirmed whether or not the operation start time has come. When the operation start time comes, the process proceeds to step S202.
[0048]
In step S202, it is confirmed whether a washing step has been selected. If the selection has been made, the process proceeds to step S300. The contents of the washing step in step S300 will be described separately with reference to the flowchart in FIG. After the completion of the washing process, the process proceeds to step S203. If the washing process has not been selected, the process immediately proceeds from step S202 to step S203.
[0049]
In step S203, it is confirmed whether or not the rinsing process has been selected.
If it has been selected, the process proceeds to step S400. The contents of the rinsing step in step S400 will be described separately with reference to the flowchart in FIG. After the end of the rinsing step, the process proceeds to step S204. If the rinsing process has not been selected, the process immediately proceeds from step S203 to step S204.
[0050]
In step S204, it is confirmed whether or not a dehydration step has been selected. If it has been selected, the process proceeds to step S500. The content of the dehydration step in step S500 will be described separately with reference to the flowchart in FIG. After the completion of the dehydration step, the process proceeds to step S205. If the dehydration step has not been selected, the process immediately proceeds from step S204 to step S205.
[0051]
In step S205, the termination processing of the control unit 80, particularly, the arithmetic unit (microcomputer) included therein is automatically advanced according to the procedure. Also, the completion sound is notified by a completion sound. After all the operations are completed, the washing machine 1 waits in a power OFF state in preparation for the next washing process.
[0052]
Subsequently, individual steps of washing, rinsing, and dehydration will be described with reference to FIGS.
[0053]
FIG. 4 is a flowchart of the washing process. In step S301, water level data in the washing tub 30 detected by the water level switch 71 is captured. In step S302, it is confirmed whether or not the capacitance sensing has been selected. If it has been selected, the process proceeds to step S308. If not selected, the process immediately proceeds from step S302 to step S303.
[0054]
In step S308, the amount of the laundry is measured by the rotation load of the pulsator 33. After the capacitance sensing, the process proceeds to step S303.
[0055]
In step 303, the main water supply valve 50a is opened, and water is poured into the washing tub 30 through the main water supply pipe 52a and the water supply port 53. The detergent put in the detergent room 54 of the water supply port 53 is also mixed with water and put into the washing tub 30. The drain valve 68 is closed. When the water level switch 71 detects the set water level, the main water supply valve 50a is closed. Then, the process proceeds to step S304.
[0056]
In step S304, a running-in operation is performed. The pulsator 33 rotates in reverse and swings the laundry in the water, so that the laundry adapts to the water. This allows the laundry to sufficiently absorb water. In addition, let air trapped in various places of the laundry escape. As a result of the running-in operation, when the water level detected by the water level switch 71 is lower than the initial level, the main water supply valve 50a is opened in step S305 to supply water and recover the set water level.
[0057]
If a washing course for performing “cloth sensing” is selected, the fabric sensing is performed together with the running-in operation. After performing the running-in operation, a change in the water level from the set water level is detected, and if the water level has dropped to a specified value or more, it is determined that the cloth is highly absorbent.
[0058]
After a stable set water level is obtained in step S305, the process proceeds to step S306. According to the setting of the user, the motor 41 rotates the pulsator 33 in a predetermined pattern to form a main water flow for washing in the washing tub 30. The laundry is washed by the main water flow. The dehydrating shaft 44 is braked by the brake device 43, and the washing tub 30 does not rotate even if the washing water and the laundry move.
[0059]
After the period of the main water flow has elapsed, the process proceeds to step S307. In step S307, the pulsator 33 is turned upside down to loosen the laundry, and the laundry is distributed in the washing tub 30 in a well-balanced manner. This is to prepare for the spinning of the washing tub 30.
[0060]
Subsequently, the rinsing step will be described based on the flowchart of FIG. First, the dehydration step of step S500 is entered, which will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. After dehydration, the process proceeds to step S401. In step S401, the main water supply valve 50a is opened, and water is supplied to the set water level.
[0061]
After the water supply, the process proceeds to step S402. In step S402, the running-in operation is performed. The running-in operation is the same as that performed in step S304 of the washing process.
[0062]
After the running-in operation, the process proceeds to step S403. As a result of the running-in operation, when the water level detected by the water level switch 71 is lower than the initial level, the main water supply valve 50a is opened to supply water and recover the set water level.
[0063]
After the set water level is recovered in step S403, the process proceeds to step S404. According to the setting of the user, the motor 41 rotates the pulsator 33 in a predetermined pattern to form a main water flow for rinsing in the washing tub 30. Washing of laundry is performed by the main water flow. The dehydrating shaft 44 is braked by the brake device 43, and the washing tub 30 does not rotate even if rinsing water and laundry move.
[0064]
After the period of the main water flow has elapsed, the process moves to step S405. In step S405, the pulsator 33 is turned upside down to loosen the laundry. This allows the laundry to be distributed in the washing tub 30 in a well-balanced manner, and prepares for the spin-drying operation.
[0065]
In the above description, “washing” is performed in which washing water is stored in the washing tub 30 and “rinsing” is performed in which washing is performed. Sometimes they do. Either, or both, is determined by the user's choice.
[0066]
Subsequently, the dehydration step will be described based on the flowchart of FIG. First, in step S501, the drain valve 68 opens. Wash water in the washing tub 30 is drained through the drain space 66. The drain valve 68 remains open during the dewatering process.
[0067]
When most of the washing water has drained from the laundry, the clutch device 42 and the brake device 43 are switched. The switching timing of the clutch device 42 and the brake device 43 may be before the start of drainage or simultaneously with the drainage. Then, the motor 41 rotates the spinning shaft 44 this time. Thereby, the washing tub 30 performs a spin-drying rotation. The pulsator 33 also rotates with the washing tub 30.
[0068]
When the washing tub 30 rotates at a high speed, the laundry is pressed against the inner peripheral wall of the washing tub 30 by centrifugal force. The washing water contained in the laundry also collects on the inner surface of the peripheral wall of the washing tub 30, but as described above, the washing tub 30 is spread upward in a tapered shape. Ascend the inner surface of 30. When the washing water reaches the upper end of the washing tub 30, the washing water is discharged from the spin-drying hole 31. The washing water that has left the dewatering holes 31 is beaten to the inner surface of the water tub 20 and flows down the inner surface of the water tub 20 to the bottom of the water tub 20. Then, the water is discharged to the outside of the outer box 10 through the drain pipe 61 and the drain hose 60 following the drain pipe 61.
[0069]
In the flow of FIG. 6, after performing a relatively low-speed dehydration operation in step S502, a high-speed dehydration operation is performed in step S503. After step S503, the process moves to step S504. In step S504, the power supply to the motor 41 is stopped, and a stop process is performed.
[0070]
Now, the washing machine 1 includes the ion elution unit 100. The ion elution unit 100 is arranged on the back panel 12 while being connected to the connection pipe 51. Hereinafter, the structure and function of the ion elution unit 100 and the role of the ion elution unit 100 mounted on the washing machine 1 will be described with reference to FIGS.
[0071]
7 and 8 are schematic sectional views showing a first embodiment of the ion elution unit 100, FIG. 7 is a horizontal sectional view, and FIG. 8 is a vertical sectional view. The ion elution unit 100 has a case 110 made of an insulating material such as synthetic resin, silicon, and rubber. The case 110 has a water inlet 111 at one end and a water outlet 112 at the other end. Inside the case 110, two plate-like electrodes 113 and 114 are arranged at predetermined intervals. The electrodes 113 and 114 are made of a metal serving as a source of antibacterial metal ions, that is, silver, copper, zinc, or the like. The size of the electrodes 113 and 114 can be, for example, about 2 cm × 5 cm and a thickness of about 1 mm.
[0072]
Terminals 115 and 116 are provided at one end of the electrodes 113 and 114, respectively. The electrode 113 and the terminal 115 and the electrode 114 and the terminal 116 only need to be able to be integrated. However, if they cannot be integrated, the joint between the electrode and the terminal and the terminal part in the case 110 are coated with a synthetic resin to form water. Break contact and avoid galvanic corrosion. The terminals 115 and 116 protrude out of the case 110 and are connected to a drive circuit in the control unit 80.
[0073]
Water flows inside the case 110 in parallel with the longitudinal direction of the electrodes 113 and 114. When a predetermined voltage is applied to the electrodes 113 and 114 in a state where water is present in the case 110, metal ions of the metal constituting the electrodes are eluted from the anodes of the electrodes 113 and 114.
[0074]
FIG. 9 shows a drive circuit 120 of the ion elution unit 100. A transformer 122 is connected to the commercial power supply 121 to reduce 100 V to a predetermined voltage. After the output voltage of the transformer 122 is rectified by the full-wave rectifier circuit 123, the output voltage is made constant by the constant voltage circuit 124. The constant voltage circuit 124 is connected to a constant current circuit 125. The constant current circuit 125 operates so as to supply a constant current to an electrode drive circuit 150 described later irrespective of a change in the resistance value in the electrode drive circuit 150.
[0075]
A rectifier diode 126 is connected to the commercial power supply 121 in parallel with the transformer 122. After the output voltage of the rectifier diode 126 is smoothed by the capacitor 127, the output voltage is made constant by the constant voltage circuit 128 and supplied to the microcomputer 130. The microcomputer 130 controls activation of a triac 129 connected between one end of the primary coil of the transformer 122 and the commercial power supply 121.
[0076]
The electrode drive circuit 150 is configured by connecting NPN transistors Q1 to Q4, diodes D1 and D2, and resistors R1 to R7 as shown in the figure. The transistor Q1 and the diode D1 form a photocoupler 151, and the transistor Q2 and the diode D2 form a photocoupler 152. That is, the diodes D1 and D2 are photodiodes, and the transistors Q1 and Q2 are phototransistors.
[0077]
When a high-level voltage is applied to the line L1 and a low-level voltage or OFF (zero voltage) is applied to the line L2 from the microcomputer 130, the diode D2 is turned on, and accordingly, the transistor Q2 is also turned on. When the transistor Q2 is turned on, a current flows through the resistors R3, R4, and R7, a bias is applied to the base of the transistor Q3, and the transistor Q3 is turned on.
[0078]
On the other hand, since the diode D1 is off, the transistor Q1 is off and the transistor Q4 is off. In this state, current flows from the anode 113 to the cathode 114. As a result, positive ion metal ions and negative ions are generated in the ion elution unit 100.
[0079]
When a current is applied to the ion elution unit 100 in one direction for a long time, the electrode 113 on the anode side in FIG. 9 is worn out, and impurities in water are fixed to the electrode 114 on the cathode side as scale. This results in a decrease in the performance of the ion elution unit 100, so that the electrode driving circuit 150 can be operated in the forced electrode cleaning mode.
[0080]
In the forced electrode cleaning mode, the microcomputer 130 switches the control so that the voltages of the lines L1 and L2 are reversed and current flows through the electrodes 113 and 114 in the opposite directions. In this case, the transistors Q1 and Q4 are turned on, and the transistors Q2 and Q3 are turned off. The microcomputer 130 has a counter function, and performs the above-described switching every time a predetermined count is reached.
[0081]
If a change in the resistance in the electrode drive circuit 150, particularly a change in the resistance of the electrodes 113 and 114, causes a decrease in the value of the current flowing between the electrodes, the constant current circuit 125 increases the output voltage and increases the current. Prevent decrease. However, if the cumulative use time becomes long, the ion elution unit 100 reaches the end of its life, and even if the mode is switched to the forced electrode cleaning mode or the output voltage of the constant current circuit 125 is increased, the current cannot be reduced.
[0082]
Therefore, in this circuit, the current flowing between the electrodes 113 and 114 of the ion elution unit 100 is monitored by the voltage generated at the resistor R7, and when the current reaches a predetermined minimum current value, the current detection circuit 160 detects this. I have to. Information that the minimum current value has been detected is transmitted from the photodiode D3 constituting the photocoupler 163 to the microcomputer 130 via the phototransistor Q5. The microcomputer 130 drives the warning notifying means 131 via the line L3 to perform a predetermined warning notification. The warning notification means 131 is arranged in the operation / display unit 81 or the control unit 80.
[0083]
For an accident such as a short circuit in the electrode drive circuit 150, a current detection circuit 161 for detecting that the current has exceeded a predetermined maximum current value is provided, and based on the output of the current detection circuit 161. The microcomputer 130 drives the warning display means 131. Further, when the output voltage of the constant current circuit 125 becomes equal to or less than a predetermined minimum value, the voltage detection circuit 162 detects this, and the microcomputer 130 drives the warning notification means 131 similarly.
[0084]
The drive circuit 120 drives the ion elution unit 100 mounted on the washing machine 1 as follows.
[0085]
FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing a sequence of elution and introduction of metal ions. The sequence in FIG. 10 is performed at the stage of step S401 (water supply) or step S403 (supply water) in the flow of FIG. That is, when the rinsing is started, it is confirmed in step S411 whether or not the input of the metal ions is selected. This verification step may be placed earlier. If “input of metal ions” is selected in the selection operation by the operation / display unit 81, the process proceeds to step S412. If not, the process proceeds to step S414.
[0086]
Step S412 is a metal ion elution step in which the main water supply valve 50a is opened and a predetermined flow rate of water flows through the ion elution unit 100. At the same time, the drive circuit 120 applies a voltage between the electrodes 113 and 114 to elute ions of the metal constituting the electrode into water. When the electrode constituent metal is silver, the anode electrode Ag → Ag + ⁺ e ^- reaction occurs, the silver ions Ag ⁺ are eluted into the water. The current flowing between the electrodes is DC. The metal ion-containing water is supplied to the washing tub 30 from the water supply port 53.
[0087]
A predetermined amount of metal ion-containing water is supplied, and when it is determined that the metal ion concentration of the rinsing water has reached a predetermined value, voltage application to the electrodes 113 and 114 is stopped, and when water is supplied to a set water level, the main water supply valve 50a Close.
[0088]
Subsequently, in step S413, the rinsing water is stirred to promote contact between the laundry and the metal ions. Stir for a predetermined time.
[0089]
Subsequently, in step S414, it is confirmed whether or not the supply of the finishing agent has been selected. This verification step may be placed earlier. In step S411, the confirmation may be made simultaneously with the confirmation of the setting of the input of the metal ions. If “input of finishing agent” is selected by the selection operation through the operation / display unit 81, the process proceeds to step S415. If not, the process proceeds to step S405. In step S405, the pulsator 33 is flipped in small increments to loosen the laundry, and the laundry is distributed in the washing tub 30 in a well-balanced manner to prepare for the spin-drying operation.
[0090]
In step S415, the sub water supply valve 50b is opened, and water flows into the finishing agent chamber 55 of the water supply port 53. If the finishing agent is put in the finishing agent room 55, the finishing agent is put into the washing tub 30 together with water from the siphon unit 57. Since the siphon effect occurs only when the water level in the finishing agent chamber 55 reaches a predetermined height, the liquid finishing agent is held in the finishing agent chamber 55 until the time comes and water is injected into the finishing agent chamber 55. Can be kept.
[0091]
When a predetermined amount of water (an amount sufficient to cause the siphon portion 57 to have a siphon action or more) is injected into the finishing agent chamber 55, the sub water supply valve 50b closes. Note that this water injection step, that is, the finishing agent charging operation is automatically executed if the finishing agent charging step is selected, regardless of whether the finishing agent is placed in the finishing agent chamber 55.
[0092]
Subsequently, in step S416, the rinsing water is stirred, and contact between the laundry and the finishing agent is promoted. After stirring for a predetermined time, the process proceeds to step S405.
[0093]
According to the above sequence, after the injection of the metal ions into the rinsing water is executed, the injection of the finishing agent into the rinsing water is executed after a predetermined time has elapsed. Therefore, if the metal ions and the finishing agent (softening agent) are added to the rinsing water at the same time, the metal ions react with the softening agent component to reduce the antibacterial properties, but after the metal ions have sufficiently adhered to the laundry, the finishing agent The reaction between the metal ions and the finish component is prevented, and the antibacterial effect of the metal ions can be left on the laundry.
[0094]
The metal forming the electrodes 113 and 114 is preferably silver, copper, or an alloy of silver and copper. Silver ions eluted from the silver electrode have an excellent sterilizing effect, and copper ions eluted from the copper electrode have an excellent antifungal effect. Silver ions and copper ions can be simultaneously eluted from an alloy of silver and copper.
[0095]
Silver ions are cations. The laundry is negatively charged in water, so that silver ions are electrically adsorbed to the laundry. Silver ions are electrically neutralized while being adsorbed on the laundry. Therefore, it does not easily react with chloride ions (anions) which are components of the finishing agent (softener). However, silver ions are absorbed into the laundry over time, so some time must be allowed before the finishing agent is charged. Therefore, a stirring time of 10 minutes after the introduction of silver ions is secured. A stirring time of about 3 minutes after the finishing agent is charged is sufficient.
[0096]
The metal ions enter the washing tub 30 from the main water supply pipe 52a through the detergent chamber 54. The finishing agent is put into the washing tub 30 from the finishing agent room 55. As described above, since the path for charging the metal ions into the rinsing water and the path for charging the finishing agent to the rinsing water are different systems, the metal ions pass through the path for charging the finishing agent to the rinsing water. However, there is no possibility that the metal ions come into contact with the finishing agent remaining in this pathway to become a compound and lose the antibacterial activity.
[0097]
Further, according to the above sequence, the stirring of the rinsing water is executed with the introduction of the metal ions and the finishing agent. Thus, the metal ions and the finishing agent can be securely attached to the entire laundry.
[0098]
The electrodes 113 and 114 wear down as the metal ions continue to elute, and the elution amount of the metal ions decreases. If used for a long time, the elution amount of metal ions becomes unstable or a predetermined elution amount cannot be secured. Therefore, the ion elution unit 100 can be replaced, and when the life of the electrodes 113 and 114 comes, it can be replaced with a new unit. Further, in order to determine whether or not the electrodes 113 and 114 have reached the service limit, the ion eluting unit 100 is devised as follows.
[0099]
The ends of the electrodes 113 and 114 on the side where the terminals 115 and 116 are located will be referred to as “roots”, and the opposite end will be referred to as “tips”. The electrodes 113 and 114 are arranged in parallel but not in parallel, and as shown in FIG. With such an arrangement, the electrodes 113 and 114 elute as metal ions from narrow portions, so that the electrodes 113 and 114 melt from the tips. Therefore, by focusing on the length from the root to the tip, it is possible to grasp how much the volume of the electrodes 113 and 114 has decreased. In order to know the length from the root to the tip, the case 110 is configured as follows.
[0100]
In the case 110, the side where the electrode 114 is arranged is the front, and the side where the electrode 113 is arranged is the back. The front side of the case 110 is formed of a transparent synthetic resin, and forms a see-through portion 170. The see-through portion 170 is for visually recognizing the electrodes 113 and 114, particularly the electrode 114 on the near side.
[0101]
A scale 171 for determining a change in shape of the electrodes 113 and 114, particularly the electrode 114 on the near side is formed in the see-through portion 170. Since the length from the roots to the tips of the electrodes 113 and 114 is an object finger for measuring the shape change, it is sufficient to provide a scale linearly arranged from the tips of the electrodes toward the roots of the electrodes.
[0102]
Of the scales 171, the scale 171 a closest to the base of the electrode has a different shape from the others. The scale 171a serves as an index for electrode replacement.
[0103]
Illumination means 172 is provided in case 110. The illuminating means 172 includes a light bulb or an LED, and illuminates the electrode 114 from the front side. An illumination means driving circuit is provided in a form attached to the driving circuit 120. The lighting means driving circuit turns on the lighting means 172 while a voltage is applied between the electrodes 113 and 114.
[0104]
With the configuration described above, when the elution of metal ions is started in the rinsing step, the illumination unit 172 is turned on to illuminate the front surface of the electrode 114. Accordingly, the user can compare the scale 113 with the electrodes 113 and 114 by disposing that the ion eluting device 100 is provided outside the washing machine 1 and that the ion eluting device 100 is in operation. It is possible to know how much the 114 has been worn. The roles of the anode and the cathode are switched as appropriate so that only one of the electrodes 113 and 114 does not wear out.
[0105]
The time when the electrode 114 wears out and its tip retreats to the scale 171a is the life of the electrodes 113 and 114, and is the timing for replacing the ion elution unit 100. After the washing process, the user removes the cable (not shown) connecting the drive circuit 120 to these terminals from the terminals 115 and 116, and then removes the ion elution unit 100 itself from the washing machine 1. After the replacement with the new ion elution unit 100, the cable is reconnected to prepare for the next washing step.
[0106]
When providing the see-through portion in the case 110, the entire case 110 may be formed of a transparent synthetic resin so that the entire electrodes 113 and 114 can be viewed. Alternatively, a slit into which a transparent plate is fitted may be provided on the front of the case 110, and the electrode 114 may be viewed through the slit.
[0107]
The material forming the see-through portion does not need to be completely transparent, but may be translucent. The point is that the size (length) of the internal electrodes 113 and 114 can be ascertained.
[0108]
The color of the light emitted by the illumination means 172 may be sequentially changed. That is, the light is initially blue or green, yellow or orange when the electrodes 113 and 114 are approaching the end of their life, and red when the end of the life is reached to draw the user's attention (color combinations are limited to this). Is not what is done). The correlation between the cumulative voltage application time and the electrode life is obtained by an experiment, and the timing of the emission color change is determined based on the correlation.
[0109]
11 and 12 are schematic sectional views showing a second embodiment of the ion elution unit 100, FIG. 7 is a horizontal sectional view, and FIG. 8 is a vertical sectional view. Components common to those of the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals as those used in the first embodiment, and description thereof is omitted.
[0110]
In the second embodiment, the illumination means 172 is arranged on the back side of the case 110 and at a position aligned with the scale 171a.
[0111]
In this configuration, when a voltage is applied between the electrode plates 113 and 114 and the lighting unit 172 is turned on, the emitted light causes the silhouette of the electrodes 113 and 114 to emerge. Thereby, the size of the electrodes 113 and 114 can be clearly understood.
[0112]
When the electrodes 113 and 114 wear down and their tips retreat to the position of the scale 171a, the light emitted by the illumination means 172 directly shines on the user's eyes. Thus, the user can very clearly recognize that the ion elution unit 100 has reached the time for replacement.
[0113]
In the description so far, the ion eluting unit 100 is entirely replaced with a new one. However, a configuration in which only the electrodes 113 and 114 are replaced is possible.
[0114]
FIG. 13 is a partial rear view of the washing machine showing an example of a mounting structure of the ion elution unit 100. Some of the components are shown in cross-section. The ion elution unit 100 has a cartridge shape, and is attached by being screwed vertically into the socket portion 51a of the connection tube 51. At the upper end of the ion elution unit 100, a socket portion 100a for connecting a water supply hose 180 is provided.
[0115]
Inside the ion elution unit 100, electrodes 113 and 114 are arranged with their tips facing upstream. Cables 181 extend from the terminals 115 and 116, respectively. The cable 181 is connected to a cable 182 extending from the drive circuit 120 via a waterproof connector 183.
[0116]
According to the mounting structure of FIG. 13, the ion elution unit 100 can be replaced without opening a door provided in a part of the washing machine 1 or removing a panel, and maintenance is easy. In addition, it is safe because it does not touch the charging section inside the washing machine 1.
[0117]
The ion elution unit 100 is located upstream of the water supply valve and is always immersed in water.
For this reason, the seal member does not dry and change its quality to cause water leakage.
[0118]
The ion elution unit 100 can be driven without power supply from the washing machine 1. A battery can be used as a power source.
[0119]
The ion elution unit 100 may be sold as an independent product to facilitate installation in equipment other than the washing machine.
[0120]
Although the embodiments of the present invention have been described above, the scope of the present invention is not limited to these embodiments, and various modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. Further, the present invention is not limited to a fully automatic washing machine of the type described in the above embodiment. The present invention can be applied to all types of washing machines such as a horizontal drum (tumbler type), an oblique drum, a dryer that also serves as a dryer, and a two-tub type.
[0121]
【The invention's effect】
The present invention has the following effects.
[0122]
(1) In the ion elution unit that generates metal ions by applying a voltage between the electrodes, at least a part of the case is a transparent portion that allows the internal electrodes to be visually recognized. The state of the internal electrodes can be checked directly with the eyes. No mechanical or electrical confirmation means is required.
[0123]
(2) In the ion elution unit as described above, since the scale for determining the change in the shape of the electrode is formed in the case, it is possible to accurately determine whether or not the electrode maintains a volume sufficient for use by using the scale. Can be determined. There is no need to make judgments based on eye size.
[0124]
(3) In the ion elution unit as described above, since the scale includes the index of electrode replacement, the timing for replacing the electrode becomes clear. The user can perform the replacement work based on this, and can keep the ion elution unit to perform the expected performance.
[0125]
(4) In the ion elution unit as described above, since the illumination means for the electrode is provided, the ion elution unit is placed in the dark or the case surface is stained, and the visibility is reduced. Even if the electrode is illuminated, the shape and state of the electrode can be recognized firmly. This eliminates the need to continue using the ion exchange unit whose life has expired.
[0126]
(5) In the ion elution unit as described above, the illumination means is turned on during the elution of metal ions, so that it can be seen at a glance that the ion elution unit is operating. The user recognizes that the metal ions for the antibacterial treatment are being eluted, and can obtain a sense of security.
[0127]
(6) Since the above-mentioned ion eluting unit is exchangeably mounted on a washing machine so that metal ions can be added to water and used, washing can be performed by adding metal ions to water used in the washing machine. The product can be subjected to antibacterial treatment, and the ion eluting unit whose life has expired can be replaced to maintain the antibacterial treatment function. Therefore, it is possible to carry out the antibacterial treatment of the laundry until the washing machine itself reaches the end of its life.
[00128]
(7) In the washing machine as described above, since the ion eluting unit is arranged at a position visible from the outside, it can be immediately recognized that the washing machine has an antibacterial treatment capability with metal ions, and the ion elution is performed. You can always check the status of the unit. In addition, if the ion elution unit is placed in a position where it can be replaced not only visually but also from the outside, the ion elution unit can be replaced without opening the door provided on a part of the washing machine or removing the panel, making maintenance easy. is there. Moreover, it is safe because it does not touch the charging section inside the washing machine.
[Brief description of the drawings]
FIG. 1 is a vertical sectional view of a washing machine showing an embodiment of the present invention; FIG. 2 is a schematic vertical sectional view of a water supply port; FIG. 3 is a flowchart of an entire washing process; FIG. 4 is a flowchart of a washing process; Flowchart of a rinsing step [FIG. 6] Flow chart of a dehydration step [FIG. 7] A model horizontal sectional view showing a first embodiment of an ion elution unit [FIG. 8] A model vertical sectional view showing a first embodiment of an ion elution unit FIG. 9 is a drive circuit diagram of the ion elution unit. FIG. 10 is a flowchart illustrating a charging sequence of a metal ion and a finishing agent. FIG. 11 is a schematic horizontal cross-sectional view illustrating a second embodiment of the ion elution unit. FIG. 13 is a schematic vertical sectional view showing a second embodiment of the ion eluting unit. FIG. 13 is a partial rear view of a washing machine showing an example of a mounting structure of the ion eluting unit.
1 Washing Machine 10 Outer Box 20 Water Tank 30 Washing Tank 33 Pulsator 40 Drive Unit 50 Water Supply Valve 50a Main Water Supply Valve 50b Sub Water Supply Valve 53 Water Supply Port 54 Detergent Room 55 Finishing Agent Room 68 Drain Valve 80 Control Unit 100 Ion Elution Unit 110 Case 113 , 114 Electrode 170 Transparent parts 171, 171a Scale 172 Illumination means

Claims (7)

In an ion elution unit that generates metal ions by applying a voltage between the electrodes,
An ion eluting unit characterized in that at least a part of the case is a see-through portion through which an internal electrode can be viewed. 2. The ion elution unit according to claim 1, wherein a scale for determining a change in the shape of the electrode is formed on the case. The ion elution unit according to claim 2, wherein the scale includes an index of electrode replacement. The ion elution unit according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein a lighting means for the electrode is provided. The ion elution unit according to claim 4, wherein the illumination unit is turned on during the elution of metal ions. A washing machine characterized in that the ion eluting unit according to any one of claims 1 to 5 is exchangeably mounted and metal ions can be added to water for use. The washing machine according to claim 6, wherein the ion eluting unit is arranged at a position visible from the outside.

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