JP2004194822A - Drum type washing machine - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a drum type washing machine which facilitates cleaning of a washing chamber (a drum) and enables a user to confirm that the washing chamber is properly cleaned. <P>SOLUTION: In response to turning on a cleaning key (Yes in STEP S1), the washing machine starts a cleaning mode and releases a lock for the drum (STEP S3). After a user rotates the drum to a desired rotating position while turning on the cleaning key (Yes in STEP S5), he/she can stop the drum at the rotating position through an electric brake by turning off the cleaning key (NO in Step S5) and clean the outer peripheral surface of the drum. While cleaning the whole outer peripheral surface of the drum easily, he/she confirms that the drum is properly cleaned by repeating the operation. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2004,JPO&NCIPI

Description

[0001]
TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to a drum-type washing machine that stores laundry in a drum and performs washing.
[0002]
[Prior art]
2. Description of the Related Art A drum-type washing machine that stores laundry in a substantially cylindrical drum (washing tub) rotatable about an axis extending in a substantially horizontal direction and performs washing is known. This type of washing machine has, for example, an outer tub that surrounds the outside of the drum. By rotating the drum in a state where a predetermined amount of water is stored in the outer tub, the laundry in the drum is drummed. Washing can be performed by repeatedly performing an operation (slap washing) such as lifting by a baffle protruding from the inner surface and naturally falling from a certain height toward the water surface.
[0003]
On the other hand, recently, in relation to all washing machines including a washing machine having a washing tub rotatable about an axis extending in a substantially vertical direction, an outer surface of a washing tub surrounded by an outer tub (user There are reports of detergent residue and black mold adhering to places that are not visible to the public), and the interest of general users is increasing.
Conventionally, a dedicated cleaning agent (washing tank cleaner) for washing a washing tub has been marketed, and a general user usually dissolves such a washing tub cleaner in water stored in an outer tub. By rotating the washing tub, the washing water in the outer tub is stirred to wash the washing tub. Further, some washing machines have been proposed that can execute a special operation course (tub washing course) for washing a washing tub (for example, Patent Document 1).
[0004]
[Patent Document 1]
JP 2000-308793 A
[0005]
[Problems to be solved by the invention]
However, in the method of washing the washing tub using the washing tub cleaner as described above, although the washing can be easily performed, it cannot be confirmed from the outside whether or not the detergent residue and the black mold have been surely removed. Thus, some users are suspicious that detergent scum and black mold have really been removed.
For such users, there are some services (such as employees of dealers) who disassemble the washing machine and directly clean the outer surface of the washing tub. Had the problem that it was troublesome and expensive.
[0006]
The present invention has been made under such a background, and an object of the present invention is to provide a drum-type washing machine capable of easily cleaning a washing tub (drum) and confirming that the washing tub (drum) has been surely cleaned.
[0007]
Means for Solving the Problems and Effects of the Invention
According to the first aspect of the present invention, there is provided an outer tub (7) capable of storing water at the time of washing, and provided in the outer tub and having a predetermined horizontal angle or a predetermined angle with respect to the horizontal direction. A drum-type washing machine (1) comprising a drum (10) capable of washing laundry contained therein by rotating about a rotation shaft (11) set within the range, An opening (23) provided in the tub for taking laundry in and out of the drum, and a drum lid (25) provided on the peripheral surface of the drum and opened and closed when taking the laundry in and out of the drum A lock means (28) for locking the rotational position of the drum to a position where the drum lid faces the opening, and releasing the lock of the drum by the lock means to rotate the drum. Possible special modes ( A drum-type washing machine, which comprises a special mode setting means for dividing mode) (51P, 31, S3, T3).
[0008]
It should be noted that the alphanumeric characters in parentheses represent corresponding components in the embodiments described below. Hereinafter, the same applies in this section.
According to this configuration, during the special mode in which the lock of the drum is released, the drum is rotated to an arbitrary rotation position, and the outer peripheral surface of the drum facing the opening of the outer tub at the rotation position is opened through the opening. Can be cleaned directly.
Therefore, without removing the drum type washing machine, it is possible to remove detergent residue and black mold adhered to the outer peripheral surface of the drum, so that the drum can be easily cleaned.
[0009]
Further, the user can clean the outer peripheral surface of the drum with his / her own hand, and can confirm that the detergent residue and the black mold have been removed. Therefore, it is possible to confirm that the outer peripheral surface of the drum has been reliably cleaned, so that it is possible to prevent the user from suspiciously determining whether the detergent residue and the black mold have been removed.
The locking means may include mechanical locking means for mechanically (eg, a pin) locking the drum, or include electrical locking means for electrically (eg, an electric brake) locking. You may.
[0010]
During the special mode, the apparatus may include a unit for introducing water to wet the peripheral surface of the drum. In this case, the means for introducing the water may be configured to include a means for supplying water into the outer tank, or may be configured to include a means for directly applying water to the peripheral surface of the drum. There may be.
According to a second aspect of the present invention, the special mode setting means is operable with a setting operation means (51P) for setting a special mode and a special mode set by the setting operation means. 2. A drum type washing machine (1) according to claim 1, further comprising means (51P, 31, S6) for enabling the drum (10) to rotate only when the operation is performed.
[0011]
According to this configuration, the user can rotate the drum by operating the setting operation unit, rotate the drum to a desired rotation position, and then, in that state, expose the outer peripheral surface of the drum through the opening. Can be cleaned. By repeating such an operation, the entire outer peripheral surface of the drum can be easily cleaned.
According to a third aspect of the present invention, the special mode setting means includes a setting operation means (51P) for setting a special mode and the drum means by the lock means (28) in response to an operation of the setting operation means. Lock release means (31, T3) for releasing the lock of (10), and drum rotation control means (31, T6) for rotating the drum at a predetermined speed lower than during washing (when washing or rinsing). The drum type washing machine (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that:
[0012]
According to this configuration, the drum is automatically rotated by the drum rotation control means, so that the user can save the trouble of rotating the drum with his / her own hand. Therefore, the outer peripheral surface of the drum can be more easily cleaned.
The rotation speed of the drum is preferably such that the user does not get injured when the drum is unexpectedly rotated from the stopped state (for example, about 10 rpm).
[0013]
The drum rotation control means may rotate the drum continuously or may rotate / stop the drum intermittently.
In this case, the drum rotation control means rotates the drum within a range (for example, 70 to 80%) smaller than the length of the opening along the rotation direction of the drum, and only for a predetermined period (for example, a fixed time). Alternatively, the control may be repeated such that the operation is stopped and then rotated again until a predetermined operation is performed.
[0014]
When the drum has rotated one or more turns from the facing position, the drum may be further rotated to the predetermined position to lock the drum.
The drum rotation control means may rotate the drum only while a predetermined operation is being performed.
In this case, it is preferable that the predetermined operation is performed with both hands. For example, the predetermined operation may be to simultaneously operate two or more switches (for example, the rotation key 51Q and the start key 51B). At this time, it is preferable that the two or more switches are arranged with an interval that cannot be operated simultaneously with only two hands.
[0015]
The invention according to claim 4 further includes an openable / closable outer cover (3) covering the outside of the opening (23), wherein the special mode setting means sets the special mode in response to the closing of the outer cover. The drum type washing machine (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, further comprising means (31, S8 to S10, T7 to T9) for releasing.
According to this configuration, the special mode is ended by closing the outer lid, so that the cleaning mode is ended by performing a special operation (for example, operation of an end key for ending the cleaning mode). In comparison, it is convenient because it saves time and effort.
[0016]
The configuration may further include means for rotating the drum to the opposing position in response to the release of the special mode and locking the drum with the locking means.
The invention according to claim 5 is characterized in that the special mode setting means further includes means (18, 31, S4, T4) for enabling water in the outer tank (7) to be discharged. It is a drum type washing machine (1) in any one of Claims -4.
[0017]
According to this configuration, even when water or the like is introduced from the outside through the opening to clean the outer peripheral surface of the drum, the water stored in the outer tank can be discharged outside the machine. Therefore, it is possible to more suitably clean the drum.
According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, the drum (10) has a large number of small holes (10A) formed on the peripheral surface thereof, and the outer peripheral surface (101A) of the drum has a peripheral portion of the small holes. The drum type washing machine (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein no burrs (102) are generated.
[0018]
According to this configuration, when the user cleans the outer peripheral surface of the drum, it is possible to prevent injuries due to the projecting burrs, thereby improving safety.
[0019]
BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION
Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be specifically described with reference to the drawings.
FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing an external configuration of a drum type washing machine 1 according to one embodiment of the present invention.
The drum-type washing machine 1 is, for example, partitioned by a casing 2 having a substantially rectangular parallelepiped outer shape. On the front side of the upper surface 2A of the housing 2, for example, an inclined surface 2B that is inclined so as to become lower toward the front side is formed, and from the upper surface 2A of the housing 2 to the inclined surface 2B, An opening / closing opening 4 is formed.
[0020]
The outer lid 3 includes, for example, a rear lid 3A that covers the rear side of the opening 4 and a front lid 3B that covers the near side. The rear end of the rear lid 3A is rotatably attached to the upper surface 2A of the housing 2, and the front end of the front lid 3B is rotatably mounted to the front end of the rear lid 3A. The user grasps the grip portion 3C formed on the front lid 3B, and lifts the rear part of the front lid 3B upward and slides it rearward, so that the front lid 3B and the rear lid 3A move upward from the upper surface 2A. The opening 4 can be opened in a state of being folded upright (see FIG. 2).
[0021]
On the right side of the opening 4 of the inclined surface 2B, for example, an operation display panel 5 for performing various settings (course settings and the like) relating to the operation of the drum type washing machine 1 and various displays such as an operation status is arranged. . The operation display panel 5 is disposed on the inclined surface 2B so as to face obliquely upward and forward, and a user who stands on the near side of the drum-type washing machine 1 moves the operation display panel 5 obliquely downward. The surface can be looked down vertically. Thereby, the user can easily see the display on the operation display panel 5 and can easily perform the operation.
[0022]
Further, on the left side of the opening 4 of the inclined surface 2B, for example, a detergent container 6 for charging a detergent into the machine with the outer lid 3 closed is disposed so as to be able to be pulled out to the near side.
FIG. 2 is a vertical cross-sectional view of the drum type washing machine 1 and shows a cross-sectional view taken from a vertical plane along the front-rear direction as viewed from the right side. FIG. 3 is a left side view of the drum-type washing machine 1, in which the housing 2 is partially omitted. FIG. 4 is a vertical cross-sectional view of the drum-type washing machine 1 and shows a cross-sectional view taken from the front side when cut along a vertical plane along the left-right direction.
[0023]
Referring to FIGS. 2 to 4, for example, a substantially cylindrical outer tub 7 whose both end surfaces are closed is arranged inside housing 2 such that axis A extends left and right (substantially horizontal). ing. The outer tub 7 is supported in the housing 2 by, for example, a pair of dampers 8 and a pair of springs 9. Specifically, the pair of dampers 8 connect the inner bottom surface of the housing 2 and the outer tub 7, and support a lower front position and a lower rear position of the outer tub 7, respectively. . Further, the pair of springs 9 connect the left and right inner surfaces of the housing 2 and the left and right sides of the upper portion of the outer tub 7 respectively.
[0024]
Inside the outer tub 7, a drum 10 for storing laundry therein is arranged. The drum 10 has, for example, a substantially cylindrical shape with both end faces closed, and has the same axis A as the outer tub 7 extending left and right (substantially horizontal).
Rotation shafts 11 extending along the axis A are attached to both end surfaces of the drum 10. Each rotating shaft 11 is held rotatably about an axis A by a bearing 12 attached to the outer tub 7.
[0025]
A motor 13 for driving the drum 10 to rotate, for example, is attached to the left end surface of the outer tub 7. The motor 13 is, for example, a so-called DD motor that is coupled to the rotating shaft 11 in a DD (Direct Drive) system, and has a rotatable outer rotor 13A connected to the rotating shaft 11. In the motor 13, the outer rotor 13A is rotated by supplying a drive current to the stator 13B, whereby the drum 10 connected to the rotating shaft 11 rotates around the axis A.
[0026]
On the upper surface 2A of the housing 2, for example, a hose connection port 2C (see FIG. 1) for connecting a water supply hose to an external water supply facility or the like is provided. At the time of washing, tap water (hereinafter simply referred to as “water”) supplied through a water supply hose is opened by opening a water supply valve 14 (see FIG. 6) provided in the machine, so that the hose connection port 2C is opened. , And is supplied into the outer tub 7 through the water supply pipe 15.
[0027]
A drain port 16 is formed, for example, on the right side of the lower end of the outer tank 7, and a drain pipe 17 is connected to the drain port 16. A drain valve 18 is provided in the middle of the drain pipe 17, and water can be stored in the outer tub 7 by supplying water with the drain valve 18 closed. The water stored in the outer tub 7 can be drained out of the machine through the drain port 16 and the drain pipe 17 by opening the drain valve 18.
[0028]
For example, a water heater 19 is arranged at the lowermost part in the outer tub 7. At the time of washing, the water stored in the outer tub 7 is heated using the water heater 19 so that washing can be performed at an appropriate water temperature.
A large number of water holes 10A are formed on the peripheral surface of the drum 10, and the water supplied into the outer tank 7 flows into the drum 10 through these water holes 10A. I have. Also, on the inner peripheral surface of the drum 10, baffles 10B protruding to lift the laundry in the drum 10 are provided at predetermined equal circumferential angles (eg, at 120 °) (three in total). ), Each extending in the left-right direction. In the washing process, the operation of tumbling the laundry in the drum 10 by the baffle 10B and allowing the laundry to fall naturally from a certain height is repeated, so that the laundry is placed on the surface of the water stored in the outer tub 7. The beating is performed so that the beating is achieved.
[0029]
When the washing is performed in the standard course, when the washing step as described above is completed, a rinsing step for removing detergent components contained in the laundry is performed, and thereafter, the process proceeds to a dehydrating step. In the dehydration step, the drum 10 is rotated at a high speed (for example, 300 to 1000 rpm), water contained in the laundry is squeezed out by centrifugal force, and moisture coming out of the laundry passes through the water holes 10A and the outer tub. Fly to the 7 side.
An electrolyzer 20 for electrolyzing water in the outer tub 7 is attached to a peripheral surface of the outer tub 7, for example, on a lower front side thereof. The electrolytic apparatus 20 connects a hollow electrolytic tank 20B having a plurality of electrode plates 20A therein and the electrolytic tank 20B to the outer tank 7, and circulates water in the outer tank 7 into the electrolytic tank 20B. And two connecting pipes 20C. Each connection pipe 20C protrudes, for example, in a substantially horizontal front side.
[0030]
When tap water is taken into the electrolysis device 20 while the electrode plate 20A is energized, water, which is a component of tap water, and chlorine chemically react with each other to form active oxygen (O 2)._Two ^-) And hypochlorous acid (HClO) are generated. Washing using the water after the electrolytic treatment (electrolyzed water) in which these products are generated can prevent dirt coming out of the laundry from attaching to the laundry again, and can also wash the laundry by a sterilizing effect. Since it can be sterilized, washing can be performed with sufficient washing performance without using a detergent.
[0031]
Therefore, the drum-type washing machine 1 can execute a course (detergent zero course) in which washing can be performed without using a detergent by using electrolytic water in addition to the standard course. In the detergent zero course, for example, after the washing process is completed, the process proceeds to the dehydration process, and the rinsing process is not performed.
The drum-type washing machine 1 also has a function of drying the dehydrated laundry, and a drying device 21 for a drying function is attached to the right end face of the outer tub 7. The drying device 21 is provided with a fan 21A and a drying heater 21B (see FIG. 6). At the time of drying, the air heated by the drying heater 21B is blown into the outer tank 7 from the drying device 21 by the fan 21A. The tumbling is repeated by rotating the drum 10 containing the laundry. Thereby, the laundry can be dried well.
[0032]
An opening 22 for taking in and out of laundry is formed on the peripheral surface of the drum 10. An opening 23 is formed on a peripheral surface of the outer tub 7 at a position facing the opening 4 of the housing 2. The opening 23 of the outer tub 7 and the opening 22 of the drum 10 can be opened and closed by, for example, an inner lid 24 and a drum lid 25 that can rotate outward (upward in FIG. 2), respectively. The laundry can be taken in and out of the drum 4 with all of the inner lid 24 and the drum lid 25 opened.
[0033]
The inner lid 24 is, for example, a plate-like member having a substantially arc-shaped cross section, and a rear end thereof is rotatably attached to the outer tub 7. When the inner lid 24 is closed, the distal end of the inner lid 24 is engaged with the outer tub 7 so that the opening 23 is closed in a watertight manner.
To open the inner lid 24, the outer lid 3 must first be opened. The outer lid 3 is opened in a state as described with reference to FIG. 1 in a state where the front lid 3B and the rear lid 3A are folded upright. Thereby, the opening 4 of the housing 2 is opened, and a space for opening the inner lid 24 above the outer tank 7 is secured. In this state, by grasping and lifting the tip of the inner lid 24, the inner lid 24 can be rotated upward, and the opening 23 of the outer tub 7 can be opened.
[0034]
The drum lid 25 includes, for example, a rear lid 25A and a front lid 25B. The rear end of the rear cover 25 </ b> A is rotatably attached to the peripheral surface of the drum 10. On the other hand, the front end of the front lid 25B is rotatably attached to the peripheral surface of the drum 10. The rear end of the rear lid 25A and the front end of the front lid 25B are connected by, for example, a bar-shaped connecting member 26. When one of the rear lid 25A and the front lid 25B is rotated, the other is also rotated in conjunction with the rotation. It works. The rear lid 25A and the front lid 25B are urged toward the opening direction (upward) by an urging member (not shown) such as a spring, for example. The connecting member 26 is covered by, for example, a cover 27.
[0035]
At the rear end of the front lid 25B, a claw 25C is formed so as to protrude. At the front end of the rear lid 25A, an engagement recess 25D corresponding to the claw 25C of the front lid 25B is formed. With such a configuration, when the rear lid 25A and the front lid 25B are closed, the claw 25C is hooked on the engagement recess 25D, and the closed state is maintained.
In order to open the drum lid 25, the outer lid 3 and the inner lid 24 must be opened, and a space for opening the drum lid 25 must be secured above the drum 10. In this state, by pushing down the front lid 25B of the drum lid 25, the engagement between the claw portion 25C and the engagement concave portion 25D can be released.
[0036]
The rear lid 25A and the front lid 25B, which have been disengaged from each other, are rotated to a position higher than the closed state by the urging force of the urging members given to the respective rear lids. In this state, by further rotating one of the rear cover 25A and the front cover 25B, the other connected via the connecting member 26 is also rotated together, and as shown in FIG. The opening 22 can be largely opened.
When closing the drum lid 25, only one of the rear lid 25A and the front lid 25B is pivoted downward, and the other coupled via the coupling member 26 is pivoted downward together with the claw part. 25C and the engagement recess 25D can be engaged.
[0037]
On the left end surface of the outer tub 7, the rotation position of the drum 10 is locked (stopped) at a locked position (a position where the drum lid 25 can be opened and closed, that is, a position where the drum lid 25 faces the opening 23 of the outer tub 7). A lock mechanism 28 is attached. The lock mechanism 28 includes a pin 28A protruding toward the rotation shaft 11, and a recess 13C into which the tip of the pin 28A can be inserted is formed on the outer peripheral surface of the outer rotor 13B of the motor 13.
[0038]
The pin 28A can be displaced along its axial direction (vertical direction). By inserting the tip of the pin 28A into the recess 13C of the outer rotor 13B, the rotation of the motor 13 is locked and the drum 10 is locked. Can be locked with. On the other hand, by retracting the tip of the pin 28A from the recess 13C of the outer rotor 13B, the lock of the drum 10 can be released. When the drum type washing machine 1 is not operating, the drum 10 is normally locked in the lock position by the lock mechanism 28.
[0039]
FIG. 5 is a plan view showing an external configuration of the operation display panel 5.
On the operation display panel 5, for example, a power key 51A for turning on / off the power of the drum type washing machine 1, a start key 51B for starting the operation of the drum type washing machine 1, A sterilizing plus key 51C for adding a sterilizing process using electrolytic water to the garbage, a course key 51D for selecting various washing courses in which washing is performed using a detergent, and bath water or the like introduced into the outer tub 7 from outside the machine. Bath water key 51E operated when washing by washing, detergent zero course key 51F for selecting detergent zero course, standard course key 51G for selecting standard course, and time for washing and drying are reduced. A quick-drying key 51H for selecting a quick-drying course, a quick-drying switch key 51I for switching between washing and drying, and a cleaning key for setting the time of the washing process. 51J, a rinsing key 51K for setting the number of times of rinsing, a dehydrating key 51L for setting the time of the dehydrating step, a drying key 51M for selecting a type of the drying step, and cleaning for starting a cleaning mode described later. The key 51P includes a rotation key 51Q that can be operated in the cleaning mode (hereinafter, these keys are collectively referred to as operation keys 51).
[0040]
In addition, the operation display panel 5 displays, for example, a remaining time until the end of the operation, or a time for displaying the remaining time until the start time when the start time of the operation is set (reserved) in advance. A display unit 52A, a detergent amount display unit 52B for displaying a guide of the amount of detergent when a washing course in which washing is performed using detergent is selected, a washing time display unit 52C for displaying the time of the washing process, A rinse number display section 52D for displaying the number of times, a dehydration time display section 52E for displaying the time of the dehydration step, and the like are included (hereinafter, when these display sections are collectively referred to as a display section 52). .).
[0041]
At a predetermined position in the housing 2 (for example, at the right end of the front edge of the opening 4), an outer lid lock device 3D for locking the outer lid 3 in a closed state is arranged (see FIG. 1). . When the drum-type washing machine 1 is operating in a normal washing course, the outer lid 3 is locked by the outer lid lock device 3D and cannot be opened. The lock of the outer lid 3 by the outer lid lock device 3D is released, for example, when the drum type washing machine 1 is not operating.
[0042]
As described above, when the drum-type washing machine 1 is not operating, the drum 10 is locked at the lock position by the lock mechanism 28. Therefore, the user cannot see the outer peripheral surface of the drum 10 except for the vicinity of the drum lid 25 both when the drum type washing machine 1 is operating and when it is not operating.
Therefore, one of the features of this embodiment is a mode (cleaning mode) in which the drum 10 locked by the lock mechanism 28 can be rotated (unlocked) when the drum type washing machine 1 is not operating. Is executable. The cleaning mode is a special mode different from the normal mode. In this cleaning mode, the drum 10 can be rotated. Therefore, the drum 10 is rotated to an arbitrary rotation position, and the rotation position is changed to the opening 23 of the outer tank 7. The outer peripheral surface of the opposed drum 10 can be directly cleaned via the opening 23.
[0043]
According to this configuration, it is possible to remove detergent residue and black mold adhered to the outer peripheral surface of the drum 10 without disassembling the drum type washing machine 1. Therefore, the drum-type washing machine 1 that can easily clean the drum 10 can be provided.
Further, the user can clean the drum 10 with his / her own hand and confirm that the detergent residue and the black mold have been removed. Therefore, since it is possible to confirm that the outer peripheral surface of the drum 10 has been reliably cleaned, it is possible to prevent the user from being suspicious as to whether the detergent scum and the black mold have been removed.
[0044]
FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing an electric configuration of the drum type washing machine 1.
The drum-type washing machine 1 includes a control unit 30 for controlling the entire drum-type washing machine 1. The control unit 30 is composed of, for example, a microcomputer, and includes a CPU 31, a ROM 32, a RAM 33, a timer 34, and the like. An operation program used to control the operation of the drum-type washing machine 1 is stored in the ROM 32 in advance.
[0045]
The operation display panel 5 is connected to the control unit 30 so as to be able to input and output. Thus, an input signal corresponding to the operation of the operation key 51 by the user is provided to the control unit 30, and the display on the display unit 52 is controlled according to an output signal from the control unit 30.
Further, the control unit 30 includes, for example, a water level sensor 29 for detecting the level of water stored in the outer tank 7, a drum lid opening / closing sensor 25 S for detecting opening / closing of the drum lid 25, An output signal from the outer lid opening / closing sensor 3S or the like for detecting opening / closing is input.
[0046]
On the other hand, the control unit 30 controls the motor 13, the fan 21 </ b> A, the water heater 19, the drying heater 21 </ b> B, the water supply valve 14, the drain valve 18, and the lock mechanism 28 via the load driving unit 35 as control objects. Connected.
FIG. 7 is a flowchart illustrating the control performed by the CPU 31 during the cleaning mode according to the embodiment.
In this embodiment, the CPU 31 monitors whether or not the cleaning key 51P is turned on (step S1). When the cleaning key 51P is turned on (YES in step S1), the drum type washing machine 1 is turned on. It is determined whether or not the vehicle is running (step S2). If the drum-type washing machine 1 is not operating (NO in step S2), the CPU 31 unlocks the drum 10 by displacing the pin 28A of the lock mechanism 28 to the retracted position (step S3). Then, the drain valve 18 is turned on (step S4). Thereby, the operation mode of the drum type washing machine 1 is switched from the normal mode to the cleaning mode.
[0047]
The CPU 31 can electrically apply a brake to the motor 13 by controlling the drive current (a so-called electric brake). In the cleaning mode, while the cleaning key 51P is turned on (YES in step S5), the CPU 31 turns off the electric brake for the motor 13 to make the drum 10 rotatable (step S6). On the other hand, when the cleaning key 51P is turned off (NO in step S5), the CPU 31 controls the electric brake on the motor 13 to be on so that the drum 10 does not rotate from the current rotational position (step S7). .
[0048]
In this way, until the outer lid 3 is closed (until YES is determined in step S8), the CPU 31 switches on / off of the electric brake of the motor 13 by turning on / off the cleaning key 51P.
According to such a configuration, the user turns the cleaning key 51P to a desired rotation position while turning on the cleaning key 51P, and then turns off the cleaning key 51P (turns off the cleaning key 51P), thereby setting the electric brake. Thus, the outer peripheral surface of the drum 10 exposed through the openings 4 and 23 can be cleaned while the drum 10 is stopped at the rotation position. By repeating such an operation, the entire outer peripheral surface of the drum 10 can be easily cleaned.
[0049]
In addition, during the cleaning mode, the drain valve 18 is turned on. Therefore, even when water or the like is introduced from the outside through the openings 4 and 23 to clean the outer peripheral surface of the drum 10, the water that accumulates in the outer tank 7. Can be discharged outside the machine. Therefore, the drum 10 can be more suitably cleaned.
When the outer cover 3 is closed (YES in step S8), the CPU 31 controls the motor 13 to rotate the drum 10 to the lock position (step S9), and then moves the pin 28A of the lock mechanism 28 to the concave portion of the outer rotor 13A. The drum 10 is locked by engaging with 13C (step S10). Thereby, the operation mode of the drum type washing machine 1 is switched from the cleaning mode to the normal mode.
[0050]
As described above, if the cleaning mode is terminated by closing the outer lid 3, the cleaning mode is terminated by performing a special operation (for example, an operation of an end key for terminating the cleaning mode). Compared with such a configuration, it is convenient and can save labor.
FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing the contents of control by the CPU 31 in the cleaning mode according to another embodiment.
[0051]
In this embodiment, the CPU 31 monitors whether or not the cleaning key 51P is turned on (step T1), and when the cleaning key 51P is turned on (YES in step T1), the drum type washing machine 1 is turned on. It is determined whether or not the vehicle is running (step T2). If the drum-type washing machine 1 is not operating (NO in step T2), the CPU 31 unlocks the drum 10 by displacing the pin 28A of the lock mechanism 28 to the retracted position (step T3). Then, the drain valve 18 is turned on (step T4). Thereby, the operation mode of the drum type washing machine 1 is switched from the normal mode to the cleaning mode.
At this time, the electric brake of the motor 13 prevents the drum 10 from rotating from the current rotational position. For example, the drum 10 is rotated only while the rotary key 51Q provided on the operation display panel 5 is turned on. It has become so. That is, the CPU 31 monitors whether or not the rotary key 51Q is turned on (step T5). When the rotary key 51Q is turned on (YES in step T5), the CPU 13 drives the motor 13 to thereby control the drum 10 Is rotated at a lower speed (for example, about 10 rpm) than at the time of washing (when washing or rinsing) (step T6).
[0052]
In this manner, until the outer lid 3 is closed (until YES is determined in step T7), the CPU 31 switches the rotation / stop of the drum 10 by turning the rotation key 51Q on / off. It is preferable that the rotation speed of the drum 10 be set to a speed at which the user is not injured when the drum 10 unexpectedly rotates from the stopped state.
According to such a configuration, the drum 10 can be rotated by operating the rotation key 51Q, so that the user can save the trouble of rotating the drum 10 with his / her own hand. Therefore, the outer peripheral surface of the drum 10 can be more easily cleaned.
[0053]
Further, the user can stop the rotating drum 10 at a desired rotation position by operating the rotation key 51Q, and in this state, can clean the outer peripheral surface of the drum 10 exposed through the openings 4 and 23. . When the cleaning of the outer peripheral surface of the drum 10 at the rotation position is completed, the drum 10 is rotated by turning on the rotation key 51Q, and the rotation key 51Q is turned off again at another rotation position, thereby turning the rotation position. Cleaning of the outer peripheral surface of the drum 10 can be performed. By repeating such an operation, the entire outer peripheral surface of the drum 10 can be easily cleaned.
[0054]
Furthermore, since the drain valve 18 is turned on during the cleaning mode, even if water or the like is introduced from the outside through the openings 4 and 23 to clean the outer peripheral surface of the drum 10, the water stored in the outer tank 7 is not removed. Can be discharged outside the machine. Therefore, the drum 10 can be more suitably cleaned.
When the outer cover 3 is closed (YES in step T7), the CPU 31 controls the motor 13 to rotate the drum 10 to the lock position (step T8), and then moves the pin 28A of the lock mechanism 28 to the concave portion of the outer rotor 13A. The drum 10 is locked by engaging with 13C (step T9). Thereby, the operation mode of the drum type washing machine 1 is switched from the cleaning mode to the normal mode.
[0055]
As described above, if the cleaning mode is terminated by closing the outer lid 3, the cleaning mode is terminated by performing a special operation (for example, an operation of an end key for terminating the cleaning mode). Compared with such a configuration, it is convenient and can save labor.
In the cleaning mode, the drum 10 is not limited to the configuration in which the drum 10 rotates only while the rotation key 51Q is operated. For example, when the rotation key 51Q (or another operation key) is operated once, the drum 10 rotates, and The configuration may be such that the drum 10 stops when the operation is performed twice.
[0056]
Further, the configuration may be such that when the rotation key 51 is operated, the drum 10 intermittently rotates / stops. According to this configuration, since it is not necessary to operate the rotary key 51Q many times, cleaning is easy.
In this case, after the drum 10 rotates by a range (for example, 70 to 80%) smaller than the length of the opening 23 of the outer tub 7 along the drum rotation direction, the drum 10 stops for a certain period of time and rotates again. Preferably, it is According to this configuration, the entire outer peripheral surface of the drum 10 can be easily cleaned by cleaning the outer peripheral surface of the drum 10 that is sequentially exposed through the opening 23 by the rotation / stop.
[0057]
In response to the rotation of the drum 10 which has been rotated by the operation of the rotary key 51Q by one or more turns from the lock position, the drum 10 is automatically rotated to the lock position and locked by the lock mechanism 28. Good. In this case, the user can recognize that the drum 10 has rotated one or more turns and the entire outer peripheral surface of the drum 10 has been cleaned, and the same position on the outer peripheral surface is not cleaned many times. .
Further, if the drum 10 is rotated only when two or more keys (for example, the rotation key 51Q and the start key 51B) are operated at the same time, the drum 10 is unexpectedly rotated and the user is injured. Can be prevented, and safety can be improved. Further, if the two or more keys are arranged with an interval that cannot be operated simultaneously with both hands, safety can be further improved.
[0058]
FIG. 9 is a conceptual diagram for explaining a method of forming the water holes 10 </ b> A on the peripheral surface of the drum 10.
When the drum 10 is formed, first, a process such as forming a water passage hole 10A is performed on a flat plate 101 made of, for example, stainless steel or the like, and then the plate 101 is formed into a substantially cylindrical shape. Curved and joined at both ends. Then, the drum 10 is formed by joining end plates (not shown) constituting both end surfaces to the peripheral plate 101 having a substantially cylindrical shape.
[0059]
When forming the water passage hole 10A on the peripheral surface of the drum 10, first, a substantially circular water passage hole 10A is formed from the one surface 101A side to the flat peripheral plate 101 by press working or the like. (Extracted). At this time, on the other surface 101B of the peripheral plate 101, as shown in FIG. 9A, a burr 102 protruding from the peripheral portion of the water passage hole 10A is formed.
After that, a process (so-called burring process) of projecting the peripheral portion of the water passage hole 10A toward the one surface 101A from the other surface 101B of the peripheral plate 101 is performed. As a result, as shown in FIG. 9B, the peripheral edge of the water passage hole 10A projects in a substantially conical shape toward the one surface 101A, and the flash 102 projects from the one surface 101A of the peripheral plate 101. Faces the other surface 101B side. The peripheral plate 101 after the burring process is curved so that the other surface 101B side is on the inside, and has a substantially cylindrical shape.
[0060]
If the drum 10 is formed by the above-described method, a shape in which the burrs 102 do not protrude from any of the inner peripheral surface and the outer peripheral surface of the drum 10 can be obtained. Accordingly, the laundry in the drum 10 can be prevented from being damaged by the burrs 102, and when the user cleans the outer peripheral surface of the drum 10, it can be prevented from being injured by the protruding burrs 102, thereby improving safety. Can be improved.
The present invention is not limited to the contents of the above embodiments, and various modifications can be made within the scope of the claims.
[0061]
For example, the configuration is not limited to the configuration in which the cleaning mode is provided. If the configuration is such that at least the lock of the drum 10 by the lock mechanism 28 can be released manually or electrically, the drum 10 can be rotated to easily clean the outer peripheral surface thereof. it can.
The lock mechanism 28 is not limited to the configuration in which the lock is performed by the pin 28A, and may be a mechanism using other mechanical means using a gear, a brake pad, or the like, or using an electric means such as an electric brake. It may be something.
[0062]
The cleaning mode is not limited to the configuration that ends in response to closing the outer lid 3, and may be, for example, a configuration that ends in response to closing the inner lid 24. A configuration that terminates in response to an operation may be used.
During the cleaning mode, water may be stored in the outer tub 7 via the water supply pipe 15. In this case, the peripheral surface of the drum 10 can be immersed in the water stored in the outer tank 7 and wetted. Therefore, the user wets the entire peripheral surface of the drum 10 by rotating the drum 10 and cleans the outer peripheral surface of the wet drum 10 to introduce water or the like from the outside through the openings 4 and 23. Cleaning can be easily performed without performing.
[0063]
In this case, the water stored in the outer tank 7 may be electrolyzed by the electrolysis device 20 to generate electrolyzed water. According to this configuration, by cleaning the outer peripheral surface of the drum 10 wet with the electrolytic water, it is possible to more desirably remove the detergent residue and the black mold.
Instead of storing water in the outer tub 7 to wet the peripheral surface of the drum 10, a means for directly applying water to the outer peripheral surface of the drum 10 may be provided. In this case, a configuration in which water introduced from the water supply pipe 15 is directly applied to the outer peripheral surface of the drum 10 or a configuration in which water in the outer tank 7 electrolyzed by the electrolytic device 20 can be introduced. It may be.
[0064]
If the drum 10 is configured to be rotatable only when the drum lid 25 is closed, it is possible to prevent the drum lid 25 from being damaged by rotating while the drum lid 25 is open. In this case, it may be configured to determine whether or not the drum cover 25 is closed based on a detection signal of the drum cover open / close sensor 25S. Alternatively, the drum cover 25 may be used without using the drum cover open / close sensor 25S. When the drum 10 rotates in a state where the drum 10 is opened, the load generated on the motor 13 due to the drum lid 25 being caught on the outer tub 7 and the rotation of the drum 10 is stopped, thereby detecting that the drum 10 is open. It may be configured to make a determination.
[0065]
The water in the outer tub 7 is not limited to the configuration in which the water is drained by opening and closing the drain valve 18, and may be, for example, a configuration in which the water is drained by driving a drain pump.
In the above embodiment, the drum-type washing machine 1 including the drying device 21 has been described, but the present invention is also applicable to a drum-type washing machine without a drying function.
Further, the present invention is not limited to the configuration in which the outer tub 7 and the drum 10 are provided in the housing 2. For example, the outer tub may be integrally formed with the housing.
[0066]
Further, the drum 10 is not limited to the configuration in which the axis A extends in the left-right direction, and may have a configuration in which it extends, for example, in the front-back direction. In this case, the axis of the drum is not limited to the configuration extending in the substantially horizontal direction, and may be inclined within a predetermined angle range (for example, up to about 30 °) with respect to the horizontal direction.
[Brief description of the drawings]
FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing an external configuration of a drum type washing machine according to an embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 2 is a vertical cross-sectional view of the drum-type washing machine, showing a cross-section taken along a vertical plane along the front-rear direction as viewed from the right side.
FIG. 3 is a left side view of the drum type washing machine.
FIG. 4 is a vertical cross-sectional view of the drum-type washing machine, showing a cross-section when cut along a vertical plane along the left-right direction as viewed from the front side.
FIG. 5 is a plan view showing an external configuration of an operation display panel.
FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing an electric configuration of the drum type washing machine.
FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing control contents by a CPU in a cleaning mode according to one embodiment.
FIG. 8 is a flowchart illustrating control performed by a CPU in a cleaning mode according to another embodiment.
FIG. 9 is a conceptual diagram for explaining a method of forming a water passage hole in a peripheral surface of a drum.
[Explanation of symbols]
1 drum type washing machine
3 outer lid
7 Outer tank
10 drums
101 Peripheral plate
10A water hole
101A One side
101B The other side
102 Burr
11 Rotation axis
18 drain valve
23 opening
25 Drum lid
28 Lock mechanism
31 CPU
51P cleaning key

Claims (6)

An outer tub that can store water during washing, and an inner tub that is provided in the outer tub and that is rotated about a rotation axis set in a substantially horizontal direction or a predetermined angle range with respect to the horizontal direction to thereby rotate the inside thereof. A drum-type washing machine having a drum that can wash laundry stored in
An opening provided in the outer tub, for taking in and out laundry in the drum,
A drum lid that is provided on the peripheral surface of the drum and that is opened and closed when laundry is taken in and out of the drum;
Locking means for locking the rotational position of the drum at a position where the drum lid faces the opening,
A special mode setting means for releasing the lock of the drum by the locking means and setting a special mode in which the drum can be rotated. The special mode setting means includes:
Setting operation means for setting the special mode;
2. A drum-type washing machine according to claim 1, further comprising means for operable in a state where the special mode is set by the setting operation means, and means for rotating the drum only when the special mode is operated. . The special mode setting means includes:
Setting operation means for setting the special mode;
Unlocking means for unlocking the drum by the locking means in response to operation of the setting operation means;
2. The drum type washing machine according to claim 1, further comprising: a drum rotation control unit configured to rotate the drum at a predetermined speed lower than that during washing. Further comprising an openable and closable outer lid covering the outside of the opening,
The drum-type washing machine according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the special mode setting means includes a means for canceling the special mode in response to the closing of the outer lid. The drum type washing machine according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the special mode setting unit further includes a unit configured to discharge water in the outer tub. The drum has a number of small holes formed on the peripheral surface thereof,
The drum type washing machine according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein no burrs are formed on a peripheral portion of the small hole on an outer peripheral surface of the drum.

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