JP2004216199A - Ion eluting unit, instrument loaded with ion eluting unit and washing machine loaded with ion eluting unit - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an ion eluting unit capable of being used without damaging an electrode and exerting no effect on the electrode on a downstream side even if the electrode is chipped and fallen, and an instrument loaded with the ion eluting unit capable of efficiently operating the ion eluting unit. <P>SOLUTION: The ion eluting unit 100 is constituted so that voltage is applied across electrodes 113 and 114 to produce metal ions. A strainer 180 is arranged on the upstream side of the electrode 113 and 114 and a strainer 181 is arranged on the downstream side of them. The strainer 180 provided to the water supply valve 50 of a washing machine 1 is also used as the upstream strainer of the ion eluting unit 100. The water supply valve 50 is constituted of a main water supply valve 50a set to a large flow rate and a sub-water supply valve 50b set to a low flow rate, and the ion eluting unit 100 is arranged to a main water supply route 52a connected to the main water supply valve 50a. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2004,JPO&NCIPI

Description

[0001]
TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to an ion elution unit that elutes metal ions having an antibacterial action into water, and an apparatus that uses the metal ions generated by the ion elution unit added to water. The equipment particularly relates to a washing machine.
[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. For this reason, in households that are forced to dry indoors on a daily basis, there is a strong demand for antibacterial treatment of cloths in order to suppress the growth of bacteria and mold.
[0005]
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.
[0006]
This led to the idea of treating laundry with antibacterial treatment each time it was washed. For example, Patent Literature 1 describes an electric washing machine equipped with an ion generator that generates metal ions having sterilizing power such as silver ions and copper ions. Patent Literature 2 discloses a washing machine configured to sterilize a cleaning liquid by generating an electric field. Patent Literature 3 discloses a washing machine including a silver ion addition unit that adds silver ions to washing water.
[0007]
[Patent Document 1]
Japanese Utility Model Publication No. 5-74487 [Patent Document 2]
Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2000-93691 [Patent Document 3]
JP 2001-276484 A
[Problems to be solved by the invention]
INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY The present invention provides an ion elution unit used for obtaining metal ions having an antibacterial action, which can be used without damaging the electrode, and which does not affect the downstream side even if the electrode is chipped off. The purpose is to provide a unit. Furthermore, by using the metal ions generated by the ion eluting unit in water, it is possible to avoid the adverse effects caused by the propagation of bacteria, not to damage the ion eluting unit, and to efficiently use the ion eluting unit. An object of the present invention is to provide a device that can operate, particularly a washing machine. Furthermore, by providing an ion elution unit upstream of the detergent chamber where the detergent is mixed with water, water containing the detergent is prevented from passing through the ion elution unit. It is an object of the present invention to provide a washing machine in which the performance of the unit is not reduced.
[0009]
[Means for Solving the Problems]
In order to achieve the above object, in the present invention, the ion elution unit is configured as follows.
[0010]
(1) In an ion elution unit that generates metal ions by applying a voltage between the electrodes, a strainer is disposed upstream of the electrodes.
[0011]
According to this configuration, even if solid foreign matter is present in the water supplied to the ion elution unit, the foreign matter is captured by the strainer and does not reach the electrode. Therefore, the foreign matter does not damage the electrodes, and the electrodes are not short-circuited by the foreign matter, so that an excessive current does not flow or insufficient generation of metal ions occurs.
[0012]
(2) In an ion elution unit that generates metal ions by applying a voltage between the electrodes, a strainer is disposed downstream of the electrodes.
[0013]
According to this configuration, even if the electrodes are worn out or become fragile due to long-term use, and the pieces may break and break out, the pieces are captured by the strainer and flow downstream. Don't go. Therefore, the fragments of the electrode do not damage the downstream articles.
[0014]
(3) In an ion elution unit that generates metal ions by applying a voltage between the electrodes, strainers are arranged on the upstream and downstream sides of the electrodes.
[0015]
According to this configuration, even if solid foreign matter is present in the water supplied to the ion elution unit, the foreign matter is captured by the strainer on the upstream side and does not reach the electrode. Therefore, the foreign matter does not damage the electrodes, and an excessive current does not flow due to the short-circuit between the electrodes due to the foreign matter, and the generation of metal ions does not become insufficient. Also, even if the electrodes are worn or fragile due to long-term use, or broken, and fragments may flow out, the fragments are captured by the strainer and do not flow downstream. Therefore, the fragments of the electrode do not damage the downstream articles.
[0016]
Further, in the present invention, the device is configured as follows.
[0017]
(4) The above-described ion elution unit is mounted on a device, and the metal ions generated by the ion elution unit are added to water for use.
[0018]
According to this configuration, since the metal ions generated by the ion eluting unit can be used by adding to water, for example, when the machine is a washing machine, the laundry is subjected to antibacterial treatment with the metal ions to propagate bacteria and mold. And the generation of offensive odor can be prevented. If the equipment is a dishwasher, the tableware can be treated with metal ions for antibacterial treatment to improve the hygiene. If the equipment is a humidifier, it prevents bacteria and algae from propagating in the water in the water tank. Can be prevented.
[0019]
When a strainer is arranged upstream of the electrode, even if solid foreign matter is present in the water supplied to the ion elution unit, the foreign matter is caught by the strainer and damages the electrodes or creates a gap between the electrodes. The ion elution unit can be stably operated in the device without causing a short circuit. If a strainer is placed downstream of the electrode, even if the electrode is worn or fragile due to long-term use, and may break and leak fragments, the fragments are captured by the strainer. It does not flow downstream. Therefore, the fragments of the electrode do not damage the downstream articles.
[0020]
(5) In the above device, the device is a washing machine.
[0021]
According to this configuration, it is possible to prevent foreign matter and electrode fragments contained in water from adhering to the laundry and soiling or damaging the laundry. In addition, dehydration and drying are performed in a state in which foreign matter and electrode fragments remain attached, and a situation in which a person wearing the laundry later touches the foreign material or electrode fragments and feels uncomfortable or is injured does not occur. .
[0022]
(6) An ion elution unit for generating metal ions by applying a voltage between the electrodes is mounted on a device, and the metal ions generated by the ion elution unit can be added to water for use. The ion elution unit was connected to the downstream side of the water supply valve provided in the above, and the strainer provided in the water supply valve was also used as the upstream strainer of the ion elution unit.
[0023]
According to this configuration, the strainer that prevents foreign matter from entering the water supply valve also prevents foreign matter from entering the ion elution unit. Therefore, there is no need to separately prepare a strainer for disposing the strainer on the upstream side of the ion elution unit, and the configuration of the apparatus is simplified and the cost can be reduced.
[0024]
(7) In the apparatus as described above, the apparatus is a washing machine.
[0025]
According to this configuration, no foreign matter enters from the water supply valve and does not damage the water supply valve itself or the ion elution unit downstream thereof. Foreign matter and electrode fragments contained in the water do not adhere to the laundry, and the laundry does not become dirty or damaged. In addition, dehydration and drying are performed in a state in which the foreign matter and the pieces of the electrode are still attached, and a situation in which a person wearing the later touches the foreign matter and feels uncomfortable or injured does not occur.
[0026]
(8) The ion elution unit as described above is mounted on a device so that the metal ions generated by the ion elution unit can be added to water and used, and the main water supply path with a large flow rate and the flow A small sub water supply path was set, and the ion elution unit was arranged in the main water supply path.
[0027]
According to this configuration, the large flow water flow and the small flow water flow can be selectively used as necessary in the device, and the high flow water flow flows through the ion elution unit to carry away the metal ions. Does not return to the electrode. Therefore, the ion elution unit can be operated efficiently.
[0028]
(9) In the equipment as described above, the equipment is a washing machine.
[0029]
According to this configuration, the high-flow water flow and the low-flow water flow can be selectively used as needed, and the high-flow water flow flows through the ion elution unit to carry away the metal ions. There is no going back. Therefore, metal ions necessary for antibacterial treatment of laundry can be efficiently generated.
[0030]
(10) As described above, in the case where the appliance is a washing machine, a detergent room and a finish agent room are defined at a water supply port for pouring water into a washing tub, and water from the main water supply path is introduced into the detergent room. Water from the sub-water supply path was introduced into the finishing agent chamber.
[0031]
According to this configuration, the path for introducing the metal ions into the washing tub and the path for introducing the finishing agent into the washing tub are separate systems, and the high concentration of the high concentration existing in the path for introducing the finishing agent is provided. There is no loss of antibacterial activity due to metal ions coming into contact with the finish to form compounds.
[0032]
(11) In the apparatus as described above, the ion elution unit includes a water inlet at one end in the longitudinal direction of the case and a water outlet at the other end, and makes the longitudinal direction of the case substantially horizontal. It was assumed to be arranged.
[0033]
According to this configuration, the ion elution unit and the water pipe for the ion elution unit can be arranged in a compact form without being bulky in the height direction.
[0034]
(12) A washing machine in which an ion eluting unit for generating metal ions by applying a voltage between the electrodes is mounted, and water is poured into a washing tub in a washing machine using the metal ions generated by the ion eluting unit added to water. The ion elution unit is arranged at a position upstream of the mouth and downstream of the water supply valve, and water from the water supply valve is supplied to the water supply port through the ion elution unit, and a detergent chamber is provided at the water supply port. It was taken.
[0035]
According to this configuration, since the ion eluting unit is located upstream of the detergent chamber for mixing the detergent with water, the water containing the detergent passes through the ion eluting unit, or the water containing the detergent flows in the detergent chamber. There is no backflow from the direction. Therefore, the detergent component does not come into contact with the electrode and adheres in the form of a scale, which does not cause a situation in which the performance of the ion elution unit is reduced.
[0036]
BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION
Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.
[0037]
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 rear side, and fixed to the outer box 10 or the upper surface plate 11 with screws. I do. 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.
[0038]
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 front leg 14a is a variable height screw leg, which is turned to level the washing machine 1.
[0039]
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.
[0040]
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.
[0041]
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.
[0042]
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 in which the dewatering shaft 44 is outside and the pulsator shaft 45 is 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.
[0043]
A water supply valve 50 that opens and closes electromagnetically is arranged in a space below the back panel 12. The water supply valve 50 has a connection pipe 51 that penetrates through the back panel 12 and protrudes upward. A water supply hose (not shown) for supplying tap water such as tap water is connected to the connection pipe 51. The water supply valve 50 supplies water to a container-like water supply port 53 provided at a position facing the inside of the washing tub 30. The water supply port 53 has a structure shown in FIG.
[0044]
FIG. 2 is a schematic vertical sectional view of the water supply port 53. The water supply port 53 is open on the front side, and a drawer 53a is inserted through the opening. The inside of the drawer 53a is partitioned into a plurality (two in the embodiment, left and right). 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. A water inlet 54 a that opens toward the inside of the water inlet 53 is provided at the bottom of the detergent chamber 54. A siphon section 57 is provided in the finishing agent chamber 55. In the water supply port 53, a portion below the drawer 53a is a water supply port 56 for supplying water to the washing tub 30.
[0045]
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 pipe 57a opens toward the bottom of the water supply port 53. 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, the action of the siphon occurs, and the water is sucked out of the finishing agent chamber 55 through the siphon portion 57, and is directed to the bottom of the water supply port 53. From the water inlet 56 to the washing tub 30.
[0046]
The water supply valve 50 includes a main water supply valve 50a and a sub water supply valve 50b. The main water supply valve 50a is set to a relatively large flow rate, and the sub water supply valve 50b is set to a relatively small flow rate. The setting of the flow rate may be realized by making the internal structure of the main water supply valve 50a and the sub water supply valve 50b different from each other. The valve structure itself is the same, and a flow restricting member having a different throttling ratio is combined with this. May be realized. The connection pipe 51 is common to both the main water supply valve 50a and the sub water supply valve 50b.
[0047]
The main water supply valve 50a is connected to the opening of the ceiling of the water supply port 53 through the main water supply path 52a. This opening is open toward the detergent chamber 54, so that the large flow water flowing out of the main water supply valve 50a is poured into the detergent chamber 54 from the main water supply path 52a. The sub water supply valve 50b is connected to the opening of the ceiling of the water supply port 53 through the sub water supply path 52b. This opening is open toward the finishing agent chamber 55, so that the small flow of water flowing out from the sub water supply valve 50b is poured into the finishing agent chamber 55 from the sub water supply path 52b. In other words, the path from the main water supply valve 50a to the washing tub 30 through the detergent chamber 54 is different from the path from the sub water supply valve 50b to the washing tub 30 through the finishing agent chamber 55.
[0048]
In some washing machines, a water supply valve is not divided into a main water supply valve and a sub water supply valve, and a water supply port has only a detergent room but no finish agent room. In such a washing machine, all the water from the water supply valve will be poured into the detergent room.
[0049]
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.
[0050]
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 seal 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.
[0051]
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.
[0052]
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.
[0053]
The operation of the washing machine 1 will be described. The lid 16 is opened, and the laundry is thrown into the washing tub 30 through the laundry slot 15. The drawer 53a is pulled out from the water supply port 53, and the detergent is put into the detergent chamber 54 therein. The finishing agent chamber 55 is filled with a finishing agent (softening agent). The finishing agent (softening agent) may be added during the washing process, or may not be added if unnecessary. When the setting of the detergent and the finishing agent (softening agent) is completed, the drawer 53 a is pushed into the water supply port 53.
[0054]
After the preparation for the introduction of the detergent and the finishing agent (softening agent) 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.
[0055]
FIG. 10 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.
[0056]
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.
[0057]
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.
[0058]
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 of step S400 will be described separately with reference to the flowchart of FIG. In FIG. 10, the rinsing process is performed three times, and the step numbers of each time are denoted by branch numbers “S400-1,” “S400-2,” and “S400-3”. The user can arbitrarily set the number of times of the rinsing step. In this case, “S400-3” is the final rinsing step.
[0059]
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.
[0060]
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.
[0061]
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 returns to the standby state in preparation for the next washing process.
[0062]
Subsequently, the contents of each individual step of washing, rinsing, and dehydration will be described with reference to FIGS.
[0063]
FIG. 11 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.
[0064]
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.
[0065]
In step 303, the main water supply valve 50 a is opened, and water is poured into the washing tub 30 through the water supply port 53. Since the flow rate of the main water supply valve 50a is set to be large, the water quickly fills the washing tub 30. The detergent contained in the detergent chamber 54 is also flushed away by a large amount of water, and is put into the washing tub 30 in a state mixed with the water. 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.
[0066]
In step S304, a running-in operation is performed. The pulsator 33 rotates in reverse, agitating the laundry and the water, and adapts the laundry 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 and water is supplied in step S305 to recover the set water level.
[0067]
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.
[0068]
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.
[0069]
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.
[0070]
Subsequently, the contents of the rinsing step will be described based on the flowchart of FIG. First, a dehydration step of step S500 comes, 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.
[0071]
After the water supply, the process proceeds to step S402. In step S402, the running-in operation is performed. In the running-in operation in step S402, the laundry stuck to the washing tub 30 in step S500 (dehydration step) is peeled off, and the laundry is absorbed into water, so that the laundry can sufficiently absorb water.
[0072]
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.
[0073]
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.
[0074]
After the period of the main water flow has elapsed, the process proceeds to step S406. In step S406, 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.
[0075]
In the above description, the “rinsing” is performed in which the rinsing water is stored in the washing tub 30 and the rinsing is performed. However, the “water rinsing” in which fresh water is always supplied or the washing tub 30 is rotated at a low speed. It is also possible to perform "shower rinsing" while pouring water from the water supply port 53 onto the laundry.
[0076]
In the last rinsing, a slightly different sequence is executed, which will be described later in detail.
[0077]
Subsequently, the contents of 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.
[0078]
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. 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.
[0079]
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.
[0080]
The flow in FIG. 13 is configured to perform a relatively low-speed dehydration operation in step S502 and then perform a high-speed dehydration operation 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.
[0081]
Now, the washing machine 1 includes the ion elution unit 100. The ion elution unit 100 is connected to the downstream side of the main water supply pipe 52a. Hereinafter, the structure and function of the ion elution unit 100 and the role that the ion elution unit 100 plays in the washing machine 1 will be described with reference to FIGS.
[0082]
FIG. 3 is a partial top view showing the arrangement of the water supply valve 50, the ion elution unit 100, and the water supply port 53. Both ends of the ion elution unit 100 are directly connected to the main water supply valve 50a and the water supply port 53. That is, the ion elution unit 100 alone constitutes the entire main water supply path 52a. The sub water supply path 52b is configured by connecting a pipe projecting from the water supply port 53 and the sub water supply valve 50b with a hose. In the model expression of FIG. 1, the water supply valve 50, the ion elution unit 100, and the water supply port 53 are drawn side by side in the front-rear direction of the washing machine 1 for the sake of explanation. They are arranged in a line along the left-right direction, not in the direction.
[0083]
In the case of a washing machine in which the water supply valve is not divided into a main water supply valve and a sub water supply valve, and the water supply port has only a detergent room and no finish agent room, simply connect the water supply valve and the water supply port to the ion elution unit 100. All you have to do is connect via.
[0084]
The water supply valve 50, the ion elution unit 100, and the water supply port 53 are connected to the detergent chamber 54 of the upstream water supply valve 50 to the downstream ion elution unit 100 and from the upstream ion elution unit 100 to the downstream water supply port 50. , And from there to the washing tub 30 through the water inlet 56, the height is gradually reduced so that water flows down sequentially. Therefore, water does not flow backward from the detergent chamber 54 toward the ion elution unit 100. Therefore, there is no possibility that the detergent component comes into contact with the electrodes 113 and 114 and adheres in the form of a scale, which causes a decrease in the performance of the ion elution unit 100.
[0085]
4 to 8 show the structure of the ion elution unit. FIG. 4 is a top view. FIG. 5 is a vertical sectional view taken along the line AA in FIG. FIG. 6 is also a vertical sectional view taken along line BB in FIG. FIG. 7 is a horizontal sectional view. FIG. 8 is a perspective view of the electrode.
[0086]
The ion elution unit 100 has a case 110 made of a transparent or translucent synthetic resin (colorless or colored) or an opaque synthetic resin. The case 110 includes a case main body 110a having an upper surface opened and a lid 110b for closing the upper surface opening (see FIG. 5). The case main body 110a has an elongated shape, and has a water inlet 111 at one end in the longitudinal direction and a water outlet 112 at the other end. Each of the inflow port 111 and the outflow port 112 has a pipe shape. The cross-sectional area of the outlet 112 is smaller than the cross-sectional area of the inlet 111.
[0087]
The case 110 is arranged such that the longitudinal direction is the horizontal direction, and the bottom surface of the case body 110a arranged horizontally in this way is an inclined surface that gradually decreases toward the outlet 112 (see FIG. 5). . That is, the outlet 112 is provided at the lowest position in the internal space of the case 110.
[0088]
The lid 110b is fixed to the case main body 110a by four screws 170 (see FIG. 4). A seal ring 171 is sandwiched between the case body 110a and the lid 110b (see FIG. 5).
[0089]
Inside the case 110, two plate-like electrodes 113 and 114 are arranged to face each other along the water flow from the inlet 111 to the outlet 112. 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. For example, the electrodes 113 and 114 can be configured such that silver plates each having a size of about 2 cm × 5 cm and a thickness of about 1 mm are arranged at a distance of about 5 mm.
[0090]
The material of the electrodes 113 and 114 is not limited to silver. Any metal can be used as long as it is a source of antibacterial metal ions. In addition to silver, copper, an alloy of silver and copper, zinc, and the like can be selected. Silver ions eluted from the silver electrode, copper ions eluted from the copper electrode, and zinc ions eluted from the zinc electrode exhibit excellent bactericidal and antifungal effects. Silver ions and copper ions can be simultaneously eluted from an alloy of silver and copper.
[0091]
In the ion elution unit 100, elution / non-elution of metal ions can be selected depending on whether or not voltage is applied. The elution amount of metal ions can be controlled by controlling the current or voltage application time. Compared with a method in which metal ions are eluted from a metal ion carrier such as zeolite, it is easy to use because the selection of whether to input metal ions and the adjustment of the concentration of metal ions can all be performed electrically.
[0092]
The electrodes 113 and 114 are not arranged completely parallel. When viewed in a plan view, the water flow flowing in the case 110 is tapered so that the distance between the electrodes becomes narrower from the upstream side to the downstream side, in other words, from the inlet 111 to the outlet 112. (See FIG. 7).
[0093]
The planar shape of the case body 110a is also narrowed down from the end where the inflow port 111 exists to the end where the outflow port 112 exists. That is, the sectional area of the internal space of the case 110 gradually decreases from the upstream side to the downstream side.
[0094]
The electrodes 113 and 114 have a rectangular front shape, and are provided with terminals 115 and 116, respectively. The terminals 115 and 116 are formed so as to hang down from the lower edges of the electrodes 113 and 114, respectively, and to enter inside the electrode ends on the upstream side.
[0095]
The electrode 113 and the terminal 115 and the electrode 114 and the terminal 116 are integrally formed of the same metal material. The electrodes 115 and 116 are led out to the lower surface of the case main body 110a through through holes provided in the bottom wall of the case main body 110a. The portions where the terminals 115 and 116 penetrate through the case main body 110a are treated with a watertight seal 172 as shown in the enlarged view of FIG. The watertight seal 172 forms a double seal structure together with a second sleeve 175 described later to prevent water leakage from the seal.
[0096]
An insulating wall 173 separating the terminals 115 and 116 is integrally formed on the lower surface of the case body 110a (see FIG. 6). The terminals 115 and 116 are connected to a drive circuit attached to the control unit 80 via a cable (not shown).
[0097]
Portions of the terminals 115 and 116 remaining in the case 110 are protected by a sleeve made of an insulating material. Two types of sleeves are used. The first sleeve 174 is made of a synthetic resin, and is fitted to the base of the terminals 115 and 116. The first sleeve 174 has a part formed to protrude on one side surface of the electrodes 113 and 114, and a projection is formed on the side surface of this part, and the projection is provided on the electrodes 113 and 114. (See FIGS. 6 and 7). This prevents the electrodes 113 and 114 from falling off the sleeve 174. The second sleeve 175 is made of soft rubber and fills a gap between the first sleeve 174 and the bottom wall of the case main body 110a, and a gap between itself and the case main body 110a and between the self and the electrodes 113 and 114. Prevent water leakage.
[0098]
As described above, the terminals 115 and 116 are located on the upstream side of the electrodes 113 and 114, and the first sleeve 174 fitted to the terminals 115 and 116 supports the upstream portions of the electrodes 113 and 114. You. A fork-shaped support portion 176 is formed on the inner surface of the lid 110b in accordance with the position of the first sleeve 174 (see FIG. 6), and the support portion 176 sandwiches the upper edge of the first sleeve 174. The combination of the second sleeve 175 filling the gap between the first sleeve 174 and the case main body 110a forms a firm support. The fork-shaped support portion 176 sandwiches the electrodes 113 and 114 with long and short fingers, so that the gap between the electrodes 113 and 114 is appropriately maintained even on the side of the lid 110b.
[0099]
The downstream portions of the electrodes 113 and 114 are also supported by the support provided on the inner surface of the case 110. A fork-shaped support portion 177 rises from the bottom wall of the case main body 110a, and a fork-shaped support portion 178 hangs from the ceiling surface of the lid 110b so as to face the support portion 177 (see FIGS. 5 and 8). ). The electrodes 113 and 114 are sandwiched between the lower edge and the upper edge of the downstream portion by the supporting portions 177 and 178, and are held so as not to move.
[0100]
As shown in FIG. 7, the electrodes 113 and 114 are arranged such that a surface facing each other and a surface on the opposite side create a space between the electrodes 113 and 114 and the inner surface of the case 110. As shown in FIG. 5, the electrodes 113 and 114 are arranged so that a space is also created between the upper and lower edges thereof and the inner surface of the case 110 (contact with the support portions 176, 177 and 178). Part is exception). Further, as seen in both FIGS. 7 and 5, a space is also provided between the upstream and downstream edges of the electrodes 113 and 114 and the inner surface of the case 110.
[0101]
If the width of the case 110 must be further reduced, a configuration in which the surfaces of the electrodes 113 and 114 on the opposite side and the opposite side are closely attached to the inner wall of the case 110 is also possible.
[0102]
In order to prevent foreign matter from contacting the electrodes 113 and 114, a strainer made of a wire mesh is arranged upstream of the electrodes 113 and 114. In the case of the embodiment, as shown in FIG. 2, a strainer 180 is provided in the connection pipe 51. The strainer 180 is for preventing foreign matter from entering the water supply valve 50, but also serves as an upstream strainer of the ion elution unit 100.
[0103]
A wire mesh strainer 181 is also arranged downstream of the electrodes 113 and 114. The strainer 181 prevents the broken pieces of the electrodes 113 and 114 from being broken when the electrodes 113 and 114 become thin due to long-term use. As an arrangement place of the strainer 181, for example, the outlet 112 can be selected.
[0104]
The location of the strainers 180 and 181 is not limited to the above location. As long as the conditions of “upstream of the electrode” and “downstream of the electrode” are satisfied, they may be placed anywhere in the water supply path. In addition, the strainers 180 and 181 are removable so that captured foreign substances can be removed and substances causing clogging can be cleaned.
[0105]
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 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.
[0106]
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.
[0107]
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.
[0108]
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 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.
[0109]
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.
[0110]
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 depleted, and impurities such as calcium in water are used as a scale on the electrode 114 on the cathode side. Stick. Further, chlorides and sulfides of component metals of the electrode are generated on the electrode surface. This causes the performance of the ion elution unit 100 to deteriorate, so that the electrode driving circuit 150 can be operated by reversing the polarity of the electrode.
[0111]
When inverting the polarity of the electrodes, the microcomputer 130 switches the control so that the voltages of the lines L1 and L2 are reversed and current flows in 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.
[0112]
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 output voltage. Prevent decrease. However, if the cumulative use time becomes longer, the ion elution unit 100 reaches the end of its life, and switches to an electrode cleaning mode in which the polarity of the electrode is reversed or the time of a specific polarity is made longer than in normal times to forcibly remove impurities attached to the electrode. Also, even if the output voltage of the constant current circuit 125 is increased, the current cannot be reduced.
[0113]
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 means detects the current. ing. The current detection circuit 160 is the current detection means. 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 notification means via the line L3, and makes a predetermined warning notification. The warning notification means 131 is the notification means. The warning notification means 131 is arranged in the operation / display unit 81 or the control unit 80.
[0114]
In addition, for an accident such as a short circuit in the electrode driving circuit 150, a current detecting means for detecting that the current has exceeded a predetermined maximum current value is provided, and a micro sensor is provided based on the output of the current detecting means. The computer 130 drives the warning notification means 131. The current detection circuit 161 is the current detection means. 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.
[0115]
The metal ions generated by the ion elution unit 100 are put into the washing tub 30 as follows.
[0116]
The metal ions and the softener used as a finish are added at the final rinsing stage. FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing a final rinsing sequence. In the final rinsing, after the dehydration step of step S500, the process proceeds to step S420. In step S420, it is confirmed whether or not the input of the finishing substance is selected. If “input of finishing substance” is selected in the setting operation by the operation / display unit 81, the process proceeds to step S421. If not selected, the process proceeds to step S401 in FIG. 12, and the final rinsing is performed in the same manner as the rinsing process up to that time.
[0117]
In step S421, it is confirmed whether or not the finishing materials to be charged are two types of metal ions and softeners. If “metal ion and softener” is selected in the setting operation by the operation / display unit 81, the process proceeds to step S422. If not, the process proceeds to step S426.
[0118]
In step S422, both the main water supply valve 50a and the sub water supply valve 50b are opened, and water flows through both the main water supply path 52a and the sub water supply path 52b.
[0119]
Step S422 is a metal ion elution step. A water flow having a predetermined water amount larger than the water amount set in the sub water supply valve 50b set in the main water supply valve 50a flows while filling the internal space of 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 water to which the metal ions have been added enters the detergent chamber 54, and is poured into the washing tub 30 from the water inlet 54 a through the water inlet 56.
[0120]
A smaller amount of water flows out of the sub water supply valve 50b than flows out of the main water supply valve 50a, and is poured into the finishing agent chamber 55 through the sub water supply path 52b. If the finishing agent (softening agent) is put in the finishing agent chamber 55, the finishing agent (softening agent) is put into the washing tub 30 together with water from the siphon unit 57. This means that the metal ions and the metal ions are simultaneously injected. Since the siphon effect occurs only when the water level in the finishing agent chamber 55 reaches a predetermined height, a liquid finishing agent (softening agent) is supplied to the finishing agent chamber until the time comes and water is injected into the finishing agent chamber 55. 55.
[0121]
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 “input of finishing agent” is selected, regardless of whether the finishing agent (softening agent) is in the finishing agent chamber 55. Is done.
[0122]
A predetermined amount of metal ion-added water is poured into the washing tub 30. Thereafter, non-metal ion-added water is poured to a set water level. When it is determined that the metal ion concentration of the rinse water reaches a predetermined value, the voltage to the electrodes 113 and 114 is determined. The application stops. The main water supply valve 50a continues to supply water even after the ion elution unit 100 stops generating metal ions, and stops supplying water when the water level inside the washing tub 30 reaches the set water level.
[0123]
As described above, the metal ions and the finishing agent (softening agent) are simultaneously added in step S422. However, this is not necessarily the case when the ion eluting unit 100 is generating the metal ions and the finishing agent (softening agent) is used by the siphon action. This does not mean that the time during which the agent is added to the washing tub 30 must completely overlap. Either one may be shifted back and forth. After the ion elution unit 100 stops generating metal ions, the finishing agent (softening agent) may be charged when the metal ion-free water is additionally injected. In short, the input of the metal ions and the input of the finishing agent (softening agent) may be executed in one sequence.
[0124]
As described above, the terminal 115 is formed integrally with the electrode 113 and the terminal 116 is formed integrally with the electrode 114 using the same metal material. Therefore, unlike the case where different metal parts are joined to each other, no potential difference occurs between the electrode and the terminal, and no corrosion occurs. Further, the integration makes it possible to simplify the manufacturing process.
[0125]
The interval between the electrodes 113 and 114 is set in a tapered shape so as to become narrower from the upstream side to the downstream side. Therefore, when the electrode is worn down along with the flow of water and the plate thickness is reduced, chatter vibration is less likely to occur and the electrode is not easily chipped. Also, there is no fear of excessive deformation and short circuit.
[0126]
The electrodes 113 and 114 are supported so as to create a space between the electrodes 113 and 114 and the inner surface of the case 110. For this reason, the metal layer does not grow from the electrodes 113 and 114 to the inner surface of the case 110, and a short circuit does not occur between the metal layer and the other electrode.
[0127]
Even if the terminals 115 and 116 are integral with the electrodes 113 and 114, the electrodes 113 and 114 cannot be worn down with use, but the terminals 115 and 116 cannot be worn down. In the case of the present embodiment, the portions of the terminals 115 and 116 located in the case 110 are protected by sleeves 174 and 175 made of an insulating material, so that there is little wear due to energization. This prevents the terminals 115 and 116 from being broken during use.
[0128]
In the electrodes 113 and 114, the locations where the terminals 115 and 116 are provided are locations that enter inside from the upstream end. The electrodes 113 and 114 wear down from the part where the interval between them becomes narrower. Although the end portions are rapidly depleted, the terminals 115 and 116 are not at all ends of the electrodes 113 and 114, although they are located on the upstream side, but are formed at locations that enter inside from there. It is not necessary to worry about a situation in which the depletion starting from the end of the electrode reaches the terminal and the terminal is broken from the base.
[0129]
The upstream side of the electrodes 113 and 114 is supported by the first sleeve 174 and the support portion 176. The downstream sides of the other electrodes 113 and 114 are supported by supporting portions 177 and 178. As described above, the electrodes 113 and 114 do not vibrate even in the water flow because they are firmly supported on the upstream side and the downstream side. Therefore, the electrodes 113 and 114 do not break due to vibration.
[0130]
The terminals 115 and 116 protrude downward through the bottom wall of the case main body 110a. For this reason, the steam comes into contact with the case 110a (when washing is performed using bath water, the steam easily penetrates into the washing machine 1), or the case 110 is cooled by passing water, and the case 110 Even if dew condensation occurs on the outer surface, the dew water flows down along the cable connected to the terminals 115 and 116 and does not stay at the boundary between the terminals 115 and 116 and the case 110. Therefore, a situation in which the terminals 115 and 116 are short-circuited by dew condensation water does not occur. Since the case body 110a is arranged with the longitudinal direction horizontal, it is easy to make the terminals 115 and 116 provided on the side surfaces of the electrodes 113 and 114 project downward from the bottom wall of the case body 110a.
[0131]
The outlet 112 of the ion elution unit 100 has a smaller cross-sectional area than the inlet 111 and has a higher flow path resistance. For this reason, the water that has entered the case 110 from the inflow port 111 overflows without forming an air pocket inside the case 110, and completely immerses the electrodes 113 and 114. Therefore, there is a portion in the electrodes 113 and 114 that is not involved in the generation of metal ions, and a situation in which this portion remains undissolved does not occur.
[0132]
Not only the cross-sectional area of the outflow port 112 is smaller than the cross-sectional area of the inflow port 111, but also the cross-sectional area of the internal space of the case 110 gradually decreases from the upstream side to the downstream side. For this reason, turbulence and air bubbles hardly occur inside the case 110, and the water flow becomes smooth. Bubbles do not dissolve in the electrodes. Since the metal ions also quickly leave the electrodes 113 and 114 and do not return to the electrodes 113 and 114, the ion elution efficiency is improved.
[0133]
The ion elution unit 100 is disposed in the main water supply path 52a having a large flow rate, and the amount of flowing water is large. Therefore, the metal ions are immediately carried out of the case 110 and do not return to the electrodes 113 and 114. Therefore, the ion elution efficiency is improved.
[0134]
The outlet 112 is provided at the lowest position in the internal space of the case 110. Therefore, when the flow of water to the ion elution unit 100 is stopped, all the water in the ion elution unit 100 flows out of the outlet 112. Therefore, the situation where the remaining water in the case 110 freezes during cold weather and the ion elution unit 100 breaks down or is destroyed does not occur.
[0135]
A strainer 180 exists upstream of the electrodes 113 and 114. Therefore, even if solid foreign matter is present in the water supplied to the ion elution unit 100, the foreign matter is captured by the strainer 180 and does not reach the electrodes 113 and 114. Therefore, the foreign matter does not damage the electrodes 113 and 114, and there is no possibility that an excessive current flows due to the short-circuit between the electrodes due to the foreign matter and the generation of metal ions is insufficient.
[0136]
A strainer 181 exists downstream of the electrodes 113 and 114. Even if the electrodes 113 and 114 are worn out or become fragile due to long-term use, and may be broken and spilled out, the shards are captured by the strainer 181 and flow downstream. Absent. Therefore, the fragments of the electrodes 113 and 114 do not damage the downstream articles.
[0137]
When the ion eluting unit 100 is mounted on the washing machine 1 as in the present embodiment, foreign substances and electrode fragments may adhere to the laundry without the strainers 180 and 181. Foreign matter or electrode fragments may stain or damage the laundry, and if dehydration and drying are performed with foreign matter or electrode fragments attached to the laundry, the person wearing the laundry later may May cause unpleasant sensation or injury in extreme cases, but the strainers 180 and 181 can avoid such a situation.
[0138]
The strainers 180 and 181 need not always be arranged. If it can be determined that there is no problem without it, one or both can be abolished.
[0139]
Returning to the flowchart of FIG. 14, the description will be continued. In step S423, the rinsing water into which the metal ions and the finishing agent (softening agent) have been introduced is stirred by a strong water flow (strong water flow) to bring the laundry into contact with the metal ions and to apply the finishing agent (softening agent) to the laundry. Promotes adhesion.
[0140]
By sufficiently stirring with a strong water flow, the metal ions and the finishing agent (softening agent) can be uniformly dissolved in water and can be spread to every corner of the laundry. After performing stirring with a strong water flow for a predetermined time, the process proceeds to step S424.
[0141]
In step S424, the agitation is reversed by a weak water flow (weak water flow). The purpose is to attach metal ions to the surface of the laundry and exert its effect. If the water flow is generated although it is weak, the user does not misunderstand that the operation of the washing machine 1 has been completed, so that the stirring is performed gently. However, if there is a way for the user to recognize that the user is in the middle of the rinsing process, for example, if a display can be displayed on the operation / display unit 81 to draw the user's attention, the stirring is stopped and the water is kept in a stationary state. You can put it in
[0142]
After a weak water flow period that is set to be sufficient for the laundry to absorb metal ions, the process proceeds to step S425. Here, the stirring is performed again by a strong water flow (strong water flow). As a result, the metal ions are sent to a portion of the laundry where the metal ions have not been distributed, and are firmly attached.
[0143]
After step S425, the process moves to step S406. In step S406, 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.
[0144]
An example of the time distribution of each step will be described. Step S423 (strong water flow) is 4 minutes, step S424 (weak water flow) is 4 minutes and 15 seconds, step S425 (strong water flow) is 5 seconds, and step S406 (balance) is 1 minute and 40 seconds. The total time from step S423 to step 406 is 10 minutes.
[0145]
It is desirable that the metal ions and the finishing agent (softening agent) be originally charged separately. This is because when the metal ions come into contact with the softener component, they are converted into compounds and the antibacterial effect of the metal ions is diminished. However, considerable amounts of metal ions remain in the rinse water to the end. The effect reduction can be compensated to some extent by setting the metal ion concentration. Therefore, metal ions and a finishing agent (softening agent) are added at the same time, and although the effect of imparting antibacterial properties is slightly reduced, the rinsing time is shortened as compared with the case of separately adding and rinsing each, thereby improving housework efficiency. It is intended to be.
[0146]
Although it is inevitable that the metal ions and the finishing agent (softening agent) meet in the washing tub 30, it is desirable to avoid contact before entering the washing tub 30. In the case of the present embodiment, metal ions are injected into the washing tub 30 from the main water supply path 52a through the detergent room 54. The finishing agent (softening 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 into the rinsing water are different systems, the metal ions and the finishing agent (softening agent) are not used until they meet in the washing tub 30. No contact with the agent does not occur, and the metal ion does not contact the high-concentration finishing agent (softening agent) to become a compound and lose antibacterial activity.
[0147]
In addition, in the case of the final rinsing, the description has been made on the assumption that the “rinsing” is performed in which the rinsing water is stored in the washing tub 30 and the rinsing is performed. Good. In this case, the water to be poured is metal ion added water.
[0148]
In addition, when the balance is not properly obtained in step S406, and the water is poured again to perform “balance correction rinsing”, the metal ion added water is also used.
[0149]
Now, the input of the metal ions as the first finishing substance and the input of the finishing agent (softening agent) as the second finishing substance are both optional items. Either one can be stopped or both can be stopped. If both are not to be charged, the process proceeds from step S420 to step S401, which has been described above. Hereafter, a case where only one of the two types of finishing substances is introduced will be described.
[0150]
If it is determined in step S421 that the finishing materials to be charged are not two types, that is, metal ions and softeners, it means that only one of the two is selected. In this case, the process proceeds to step S426.
[0151]
In step S426, it is confirmed whether the finishing material to be charged is a metal ion. If it is a metal ion, the process proceeds to step S427. Otherwise, the process proceeds to step S428.
[0152]
In step S427, the main water supply valve 50a is opened, and water flows through the main water supply path 52a. The sub water supply valve 50b does not open. When water flows through the ion elution unit 100, the drive circuit 120 applies a voltage between the electrodes 113 and 114 to elute ions of the metal constituting the electrode into the water. A predetermined amount of metal ion-added water is poured into the washing tub 30. Thereafter, non-metal ion-added water is poured to a set water level. When it is determined that the metal ion concentration of the rinse water reaches a predetermined value, the voltage to the electrodes 113 and 114 is determined. The application stops. The main water supply valve 50a continues to supply water even after the ion elution unit 100 stops generating metal ions, and stops supplying water when the water level inside the washing tub 30 reaches the set water level.
[0153]
After step S427, the process proceeds to step S423. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S423 (strong water flow) → step S424 (weak water flow) → step S425 (strong water flow) → step S406 (balance) in the same manner as when the metal ions and the finishing agent (softening agent) are simultaneously injected.
[0154]
If it is determined in step S426 that the finishing substance to be charged is not a metal ion, the finishing agent (softening agent) is to be charged alone. In this case, the process proceeds to step S428.
[0155]
In step S428, both the main water supply valve 50a and the sub water supply valve 50b are opened, and water flows through both the main water supply path 52a and the sub water supply path 52b. However, the ion elution unit 100 is not driven, and no metal ions are generated. After sufficient water has been poured into the finishing agent chamber 55 to cause the siphon effect, and the finishing agent (softening agent) has been introduced into the washing tub 30 through the siphon unit 57, the sub water supply valve 50b is closed.
[0156]
The main water supply valve 50a continues water supply even after the sub water supply valve 50b is closed, and stops water supply when the water level inside the washing tub 30 reaches the set water level.
[0157]
After step S428, the process proceeds to step S423. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S423 (strong water flow) → step S424 (weak water flow) → step S425 (strong water flow) → step S406 (balance) in the same manner as when the metal ions and the finishing agent (softening agent) are simultaneously injected.
[0158]
As described above, even when only one type of finishing material is supplied, the steps of strong water flow → weak water flow → strong water flow are executed to ensure that the finishing material adheres to the laundry. However, the time distribution of each step does not need to be the same for the metal ions and the finishing agent (softening agent), and is adjusted and set to suit each.
[0159]
In the case of a finishing agent (softening agent), it is not necessary to take as long a time as metal ions to attach to a laundry. Therefore, after step S428, only steps S423 (strong water flow) and S406 (balance) can be placed, and step S423 (strong water flow) can be completed in a short time, for example, two minutes.
[0160]
In driving the ion elution unit 100, the constant current circuit 125 of the drive circuit 120 controls the voltage so that the current flowing between the electrodes 113 and 114 has a constant value. Thereby, the metal ion elution amount per unit time becomes constant. If the amount of metal ions eluted per unit time is constant, the amount of metal flowing in the washing tub 30 can be controlled by controlling the amount of water flowing to the ion elution unit 100 and the ion elution time, so that the desired metal ion concentration can be controlled. It is easy to obtain the ion concentration.
[0161]
At this time, the current flowing between the electrodes 113 and 114 is DC. If this is an exchange, the following phenomenon occurs: That is, in the case of metal ions such as silver ions, silver ions, which once dissolved, when the polarity of the electrodes is inverted, Ag ⁺ + e ^- → reverts back to the electrodes by reverse reaction of Ag. This is not the case with direct current.
[0162]
Scale is deposited on the side of the electrodes 113 and 114 used as the cathode. If a direct current continues to flow without reversing the polarity and the amount of deposited scale increases, it becomes difficult for current to flow, and it becomes difficult to elute metal ions at a predetermined rate. In addition, there is also a problem of "one-sided reduction" in which only the electrode used as the anode rapidly wears out. Therefore, the polarities of the electrodes 113 and 114 are periodically inverted.
[0163]
The electrodes 113 and 114 gradually deplete 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, the user is notified through the operation / display unit 81 that the electrodes 113 and 114 have reached the service limit, so as to prompt maintenance such as replacement of the ion elution unit 100.
[0164]
As described above, the embodiments of the present invention have been described, but the scope of the present invention is not limited thereto, and various changes can be made without departing from the gist of the invention.
[0165]
Further, the present invention is applicable to equipment other than a washing machine, for example, a dishwasher and a humidifier. As for the washing machine, in addition to the fully automatic washing machine of the type described in the above embodiment, a washing machine of any type such as a horizontal drum (tumbler type), an oblique drum, a dryer that also serves as a dryer, or a double-layer washing machine Applicable to
[0166]
【The invention's effect】
According to the ion elution unit of the present invention, even if solid foreign matter is present in the supplied water, the foreign matter is captured by the strainer on the upstream side, so that the foreign matter does not damage the electrode, and There is no possibility that an excessive current flows due to the short-circuit between the members due to the foreign matter or insufficient generation of metal ions. Also, even if the electrodes are worn or fragile due to long-term use, and if they are broken and fragments may flow out, the fragments are captured by the strainer on the downstream side and flow downstream. Absent. Therefore, the fragments of the electrode do not damage the downstream articles.
[0167]
By installing such an ion elution unit in equipment, the metal ions generated by the ion elution unit are added to water and used to prevent the growth of bacteria and mold in the laundry if the washing machine is used, and the equipment is used for washing dishes. In the case of a humidifier, effects such as improvement of tableware hygiene and in the case of a humidifier, prevention of scattering of bacteria and algae spores into the air can be obtained. The presence of the strainer allows the device to be used stably and safely.
[0168]
Furthermore, when the ion elution unit is installed in the equipment, the ion elution unit is arranged in the main water supply path of the main water supply path with a large flow rate and the sub water supply path with a small flow rate set in the equipment. A large flow of water flows to carry away metal ions, so that the metal ions do not return to the electrodes, and the ion elution unit can be operated efficiently.
[0169]
In addition, in a washing machine in which an ion elution unit that generates metal ions by applying a voltage between the electrodes is installed, and a metal ion generated by the ion elution unit is added to water, a water supply port that pours water into a washing tub. By disposing the ion elution unit at a position upstream of the water supply valve and downstream of the water supply valve, supplying water from the water supply valve to the water supply port via the ion elution unit, and providing a detergent chamber at the water supply port, This prevents the detergent-containing water from passing through the ion elution unit or the detergent-containing water from flowing back from the detergent chamber, and the detergent components contact the electrodes and adhere in the form of scale. However, a situation in which the performance of the ion elution unit is reduced does not occur.
[Brief description of the drawings]
FIG. 1 is a vertical sectional view of a washing machine according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a schematic vertical sectional view of a water supply port. FIG. 3 is a partial top view inside the washing machine. FIG. FIG. 5 is a vertical sectional view taken along line AA of FIG. 4. FIG. 6 is a vertical sectional view taken along line BB of FIG. 4. FIG. 7 is a horizontal sectional view of an ion elution unit. FIG. 8 is a perspective view of an electrode. FIG. 9 is a drive circuit diagram of an ion elution unit. FIG. 10 is a flowchart of an entire washing process. FIG. 11 is a flowchart of a washing process. FIG. 12 is a flowchart of a rinsing process. [FIG. 14] Flow chart of final rinsing step [Description of symbols]
DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Washing machine 10 Outer box 20 Water tub 30 Wash tub 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 part 81 Operation / display part 100 Ion Elution unit 113, 114 Electrode 120 Drive circuit 125 Constant current circuit 150 Electrode drive circuit 180, 181 Strainer

Claims (12)

In an ion elution unit that generates metal ions by applying a voltage between the electrodes,
An ion elution unit, wherein a strainer is disposed upstream of the electrode. In an ion elution unit that generates metal ions by applying a voltage between the electrodes,
An ion elution unit, wherein a strainer is disposed downstream of the electrode. In an ion elution unit that generates metal ions by applying a voltage between the electrodes,
An ion elution unit, wherein a strainer is arranged on an upstream side and a downstream side of the electrode. An apparatus comprising the ion eluting unit according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the metal ion generated by the ion eluting unit is added to water and used. The device according to claim 4, wherein the device is a washing machine. An ion elution unit that generates metal ions by applying a voltage between the electrodes is mounted, and the metal ions generated by the ion elution unit can be added to water and used, and the water supply provided in the device The apparatus, wherein the ion elution unit is connected to a downstream side of a valve, and a strainer provided in the water supply valve is also used as an upstream strainer of the ion elution unit. The device according to claim 6, wherein the device is a washing machine. The ion eluting unit according to any one of claims 1 to 3 is mounted, and the metal ions generated by the ion eluting unit can be added to water and used, and the equipment having a large flow rate can be used. An apparatus, wherein a water supply path and a sub-water supply path having a small flow rate are set, and the ion elution unit is arranged in the main water supply path. The device according to claim 8, wherein the device is a washing machine. A detergent chamber and a finishing agent chamber are defined at a water inlet for pouring into a washing tub, water from the main water supply passage is introduced into the detergent room, and water from the sub water supply passage is introduced into the finishing agent room. The device according to claim 9, wherein: The ion elution unit is provided with a water inlet at one end in the longitudinal direction of the case and a water outlet at the other end, and is disposed with the longitudinal direction of the case being substantially horizontal. The device according to any one of claims 4 to 10. In a washing machine that is equipped with an ion elution unit that generates metal ions by applying a voltage between the electrodes, and uses the metal ions generated by the ion elution unit added to water,
The ion elution unit is arranged at a position upstream of a water supply port for pouring water into a washing tub and downstream of a water supply valve, and supplies water from the water supply valve to the water supply port through the ion elution unit, A washing machine characterized by having a detergent room at a water inlet.

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