JP2008295967A - Washing and drying machine - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a washing and drying machine, suitably performing drying even when using bathtub water and performing only drying. <P>SOLUTION: With a switching valve 400 closed, a second water supply solenoid valve for tap water is opened to supply tap water to a second conduit chamber of a water supply switching box 300. The tap water supplied to the second conduit chamber is supplied to a bathtub water pump 500 through a bathtub water supply route also serving as a bathtub water feed pipe 730 for cooling. The tap water supplied to the bathtub water pump 500 is supplied to a water-cooled dehumidifying member through a bathtub water delivery pipe 720, a third conduit chamber and a communicating hole (an air vent passage). <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2009,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to a washing / drying machine that can be used from washing to drying.

In recent years, various types of washing and drying machines have been proposed that continuously perform from washing to drying. In this type of washing and drying machine, for example, bath water is used for washing by using a bath water pump in order to improve water saving performance. In addition, when using the bath water pump, if the bath water pump is in the air, it cannot rotate and pump up the bath water, so the priming water that supplies tap water into the bath water pump before pumping up the bath water. Is necessary (see Patent Document 1).
JP 2002-35492 A (paragraph 0032, FIG. 4)

  By the way, in the washing and drying machine, there is proposed a type in which water is poured from the upper part of the washing tub when water is supplied to the washing tub and washing is performed, and in order to improve water saving performance, the pump is also operated during drying to take a bath. It has been proposed to use water. In such a type of washing and drying machine, when washing from washing to drying is performed continuously, priming is not performed at the time of drying since priming is performed at the time of washing. Unfortunately, there are cases where it is desired to perform only drying using the remaining hot water of the bath in a washing / drying machine. In such a case, it is necessary to perform priming.

  However, if priming is performed in such a case, a part of the tap water supplied to the outer tub of the washing tub enters the inner tub or the priming water supplied to the outer tub There was a problem that a part of tap water entered the inner tub through a hole communicating with the outer tub and the inner tub and wets the laundry.

  The present invention solves the above-mentioned conventional problems, and an object of the present invention is to provide a washing and drying machine capable of performing appropriate drying even when only drying is performed using bath water.

  The present invention includes an inner tub into which laundry is introduced, an outer tub that accommodates the inner tub and stores washing water, a blower that sends drying air for drying the laundry, and the drying air is heated. In a washing / drying machine comprising heating means, dehumidifying means for dehumidifying moisture contained in the drying air, and a bath water pump for sucking up bath water, tap water is used as washing water in the outer tub via a hose. Washing tap water supply path to supply, bath water supplied from the bath water pump as washing water, washing bath water supply path to supply to the outer tub through the hose, and tap water when drying Cooling tap water supply path for supplying the dehumidifying means as cooling water, cooling bath water supply path for supplying the bath water supplied from the bath water pump to the dehumidifying means as cooling water during drying, and the washing Separate from tap water supply route A priming water supply path that is provided independently and supplies priming water supplied from the water supply to the bath water pump; and an air vent path that is provided in the washing bath water supply path and communicates with the dehumidifying means, A switching valve that switches a path of bath water supplied from the bath water pump to either the air vent path or the hose is provided.

  According to the present invention, the priming water supply path is provided separately from the washing tap water supply path, and the air vent path for extracting air in the bath water pump is provided so as to communicate with the dehumidifying means. During operation of only drying, tap water is not injected into the outer tub via a hose and the laundry in the inner tub does not get wet.

  According to the present invention, appropriate drying can be performed even when only drying is performed using bath water.

  FIG. 1 is a schematic view when the inside of the washing and drying machine of the present embodiment is viewed from the side, and FIG. 2 is a perspective view when an assembly of a water supply switching unit, a bath water pump and various pipes is viewed from the switching valve side. 3 is a perspective view when the assembly of the water supply switching unit, the bath water pump and various pipes is viewed from the water supply solenoid valve side, and FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view of the water supply switch unit viewed from the water supply solenoid valve side. 5 is a perspective view when the water supply switching box is viewed from the water supply solenoid valve side, FIG. 6A is a plan view showing the inner surface of the water supply switching lid of the water supply switching box, and FIG. 6B is a water supply switching case of the water supply switching box. 7 is a perspective plan view showing a water supply switching box, FIG. 8 is a sectional view showing a switching valve, FIG. 9 is a longitudinal sectional view showing a bath water pump, and FIG. 10 is a block diagram showing a washing / drying machine. It is.

  As shown in FIG. 1, the washing / drying machine 1 according to the present embodiment is a so-called vertical drum type, and includes an inner tub 2, an outer tub 3, a circulation fan (air blowing means) 30, a heater (heating means) 40, and water cooling. A dehumidifying member (dehumidifying means) 50, a water supply switching unit 100, a bath water pump 500 (see FIG. 2), an ECU (control means) 900, and the like are provided.

  The inner tub 2 has an opening for taking in and out the laundry at the upper portion thereof, and a plurality of holes (not shown) communicating with the outer tub 3 are provided on the side wall surface. A stirring blade 4 that stirs the laundry is rotatably provided at the bottom of the inner tub 2. The agitating blade 4 is rotated forward / reversely during the washing operation, and rotates at a high speed together with the inner tub 2 during the dehydration operation, so that the water contained in the laundry in the inner tub 2 is dehydrated.

  The outer tub 3 has a function of storing the inner tub 2 and storing washing water, and is supported by an anti-vibration on an outer frame (not shown) of the washing / drying machine 1. Further, the outer tub 3 has a diameter such that a predetermined gap is formed between the outer tub 3 and the periphery of the inner tub 2.

  A washing / driving drive motor 5 is provided below the outer tub 3. The washing / drying drive motor 5 drives the stirring blade 4 and the inner tub 2 to rotate. The washing / drying drive motor 5 is constituted by a DC brushless motor or the like.

  In addition, a top cover 6 is provided at the upper part of the washing / drying machine 1, and an outer lid 7 is attached to the top cover 6 so as to be freely opened and closed. The outer lid 7 is opened and closed when the laundry in the inner tub 2 is taken in and out.

  The top cover 6 has a detergent softener case 8 on the front side (left side in FIG. 1). The detergent softener case 8 supplies the detergent, softener (softener) and the like to the outer tub 3 using tap water. The outlet of the detergent softener case 8 is directed between the inner tank 2 and the outer tank 3.

  In addition, a water supply switching unit 100 is provided at the rear portion of the top cover 6 (right side in FIG. 1). This water supply switching unit 100 has a tap water hose connection port 101 to which a tap water hose (not shown) is connected, and is provided so as to protrude from the top of the top cover 6. Further, the water supply switching unit 100 has a bath water hose connection port 520 to which a bath water hose (not shown) of a bath water pump 500 (see FIG. 2) for sucking bath water is connected provided at the rear of the top cover 6. Yes.

  The circulation fan 30 (air blowing means) has a function of circulating the drying air Q in the drying air circulation path R described later. The drying air circulation path R includes a bottom circulation path 20 connected to communicate with the bottom of the outer tub 3, a dehumidification circulation path 21 that rises from the bottom circulation path 20, a descending circulation path 22 that descends from the dehumidification circulation path 21, and a descending circulation. An ascending circulation path 23 that rises again from the path 22, a return circulation path 24 that extends laterally from the ascending circulation path 23, and a return connection circulation path 25 that is connected so as to communicate with the upper part of the outer tub 3 from the return circulation path 24 Yes.

  The circulation fan 30 is provided in the lower part where the descending circulation path 22 and the ascending circulation path 23 are connected. The bottom circulation path 20 has a bellows hose 26, and the return connection circulation path 25 also has a bellows hose 27. By providing these bellows hoses 26 and 27, vibration when the inner tub 2 is rotated by the washing and drying drive motor 5 is blocked.

  The heater (heating means) 40 has a function of heating the drying air Q and is provided in the return circuit 24. By repeating this moisture removal by circulation of the drying air Q, the laundry is dried well.

  The water-cooled dehumidifying member (dehumidifying means) 50 is, for example, a stainless steel plate having a plurality of protrusions on the surface, and is provided so as to extend vertically in the dehumidifying circuit 21. By supplying bath water or tap water to the water-cooled dehumidifying member 50, the drying air Q rising in the dehumidifying circuit 21 is cooled, and has a function of taking moisture contained in the drying air Q. Yes.

  As shown in FIG. 1, the bottom of the bottom circulation path 20 communicates with a washing water drainage path 42 and a washing water circulation water path 43 via a lower communication pipe 41. A drainage valve 44 is provided in the washing water drainage channel 42. During the washing operation and the drying operation, the drain valve 44 is closed, and when the washing water is drained and during the drying operation, the drain valve 44 is opened and drained to the outside of the washing dryer 1.

  The washing water circulation water longitudinal water channel 46 extends to the upper side of the inner tub 2 and is connected to the washing water circulation water channel 43 via a circulation pump 45. The washing water and the rinsing water accumulated in the outer tub 3 are sucked up by the circulation pump 45 and poured into the inner tub 2 from the upper discharge port 46a of the washing water circulation water longitudinal water channel 46. Washing and rinsing are performed under continuous water injection by the circulation pump 45, so that washing is performed efficiently with a small amount of water.

  The water level sensor 47 has a function of detecting the water level of the washing water and the rinsing water accumulated in the outer tub 3. An air trap 48 is provided in communication with the side of the bottom circulation path 20, and the air trap 48 and the water level sensor 47 are connected so as to communicate with each other through an air tube 49.

  As shown in FIG. 2, the water supply switching unit 100 includes a water supply electromagnetic valve 200, a water supply switching box 300, a switching valve 400, and the like.

  As shown in FIG. 3, the water supply electromagnetic valve 200 includes a first water supply electromagnetic valve 201, a second water supply electromagnetic valve 202, a softener water supply solenoid valve 203, and a detergent dissolution water supply electromagnetic valve 204. is doing. These four water supply electromagnetic valves 201 to 204 are unitized and configured to communicate with the tap water hose connection port 101 described above, and tap water branches from the tap water hose connection port 101 to each of the water supply electromagnetic valves 201 to 204. Supplied. Each of the water supply electromagnetic valves 201 to 204 is provided with connectors 201a, 202a, 203a, and 204a to which electricity is supplied. Also, each of the water supply solenoid valves 201 to 204 (see FIG. 4) has a discharge port 201b (for first tap water), 202b (for second tap water), 203b (for softener), 204b (for detergent dissolution). Is provided.

  As shown in FIGS. 4 and 5, the water supply switching box 300 is configured by combining a water supply switching lid 310 and a water supply switching case 320. The joint surface between the water supply switching lid 310 and the water supply switching case 320 is sealed.

  As shown in FIG. 5, the water supply switching lid 310 has a first tap water inflow into which the discharge port 201 b of the first tap water supply electromagnetic valve 201 and the discharge port 202 b of the second tap water supply electromagnetic valve 202 are respectively fitted. It has a connection port 321 and a second tap water inflow connection port 322. Further, the water supply switching lid 310 has an inflow connection port 323, an outflow connection port 324, and a cooling tap water outflow connection port 325.

  As shown to Fig.6 (a), it has the 1st water channel chamber 331a, the 2nd water channel chamber 332a, and the 3rd water channel chamber 333a in the inner surface of the said water supply switching cover 310. FIG. The first water channel chamber 331a is partitioned so as to communicate with the first tap water inflow connection port 321 and the cooling tap water outflow connection port 325. The second water channel chamber 332a is partitioned so as to communicate with the second tap water inflow connection port 322 and the outflow connection port 324 (324a). The third water channel chamber 333a is partitioned so as to communicate with the inflow connection port 323 and the outflow connection port 324 (324b). The outflow connection port 324 has a communication hole 324a that communicates with the second water channel chamber 332a and a communication hole 324b that communicates with the third water channel chamber 333a.

  As shown in FIG. 4, the water supply switching case 320 includes a washing water outflow connection port 311, a bath water outflow connection port 312, a bath water inflow connection port 313, and a cooling bath water inflow connection port 314. ing.

  As shown in FIG. 6 (b), the water supply switching case 320 is such that the sealing property is maintained between the first water channel chamber 331a, the second water channel chamber 332a, and the third water channel chamber 333a of the water supply switching lid 310. The first water channel chamber 331b, the second water channel chamber 332b, and the third water channel chamber 333b are provided. The first water channel chamber 331b is partitioned so as to communicate with the washing water outflow connection port 311 and the bath water inflow connection port 313. The second water channel chamber 332b is partitioned so as to communicate with the cooling bath water inflow connection port 314. The third water channel chamber 333 b is partitioned so as to communicate with the bath water outflow connection port 312.

  As shown in FIG. 7, in the water supply switching box 300, a combination of the first water channel chamber 331a and the first water channel chamber 331b becomes the first water channel chamber 331, and the second water channel chamber 332a and the second water channel chamber 332b Are combined to form a second water channel chamber 332, and a combination of the third water channel chamber 333a and the third water channel chamber 333b is a third water channel chamber 333.

  As shown in FIG. 8, the switching valve 400 is opened and closed by an ECU 900 described later, and has a function of communicating and blocking the bath water outflow connection port 312 and the bath water inflow connection port 313. The switching valve 400 includes connecting portions 410 and 420, and includes a valve body 403 that allows the connecting portion 410 and the connecting portion 420 to communicate with each other and to be shut off. The valve body 403 is fixed to the plunger 404, and has a drive unit 405 that drives the plunger 404 so as to advance and retreat. The drive unit 405 includes a fixed iron core 405a, a yoke 405b, a bobbin 405c around which a copper wire is wound. Further, the switching valve 400 is provided with a spring 406 that urges the plunger 404 in the valve closing direction, and a diaphragm 407 that prevents fluid from entering the drive unit 405 side.

  In addition, the connection portion 410 of the switching valve 400 is connected to the bath water outflow connection port 312 and the connection pipe 710 (see FIG. 2), and the connection portion 420 is connected to the bath water inflow connection port 313.

  As shown in FIG. 9, the bath water pump 500 is provided between a motor case 502 in which a drive motor 501 is installed, a pump casing 504 in which a pump runner 503 is installed, and between the pump runner 503 and the drive motor 501. A shaft coupling 505.

  The bath water pump 500 includes a mechanical seal 506 that surrounds the shaft coupling 505 from the outside, a bath water hose connection port 520 to which a bath water hose (not shown) is connected, and a pump runner 503 from the bath water hose connection port 520. A check valve 508 provided on the way to the suction port and a steam / water separation chamber 509 are provided.

  Further, the bath water pump 500 has a discharge port 510 having a large diameter for discharging the sucked bath water from the pump casing 504 and a discharge port 511 having a smaller diameter than the discharge port 510 having a large diameter for discharging the air in the pump casing 504. (See FIG. 2). The small discharge port 511 discharges the sucked bath water when the air in the pump casing 504 is released (that is, when the supply of the priming water is finished).

  In the bath water pump 500, the pump casing 504, the steam / water separation chamber 509, the discharge port 510, and the discharge port 511 are in communication. The discharge port 510 and the discharge port 511 are provided in the upper part of the steam-water separation chamber 509 or at a position higher than that.

  Connection of various communication pipes will be described with reference to FIGS.

  As shown in FIG. 3, one end of the bath water discharge pipe 720 is connected to the discharge port 510 of the bath water pump 500, and the other end of the bath water discharge pipe 720 is connected to the inflow connection port 323 of the water supply switching box 300. Is done.

  As shown in FIG. 2, one end of a cooling bath water feed pipe 730 is connected to the discharge port 511 of the bath water pump 500, and the other end of the cooling bath water feed pipe 730 is the water supply switching of the water supply switching box 300. It is connected to a cooling bath water inflow connection port 314 provided in the case 320. The cooling bath water feed pipe 730 also functions as a priming water supply path during priming.

  One end of a hose 800 is connected to the washing water outflow connection port 311 provided in the water supply switching case 320 (see FIG. 4) of the water supply switching box 300, and the other end of the hose 800 receives washing water and rinsing water in the outer tub. 3 is arranged at a position where water can be poured. The bath water outflow connection port 312 provided in the water supply switching case 320 of the water supply switching box 300 is connected to the connection portion 410 of the switching valve 400 via the connection pipe 710.

  The first tap water inflow connection port 321 provided in the water supply switching cover 310 of the water supply switching box 300 is connected to the discharge port 201b of the first tap water supply electromagnetic valve 201. Moreover, the 2nd tap water inflow connection port 322 provided in the water supply switching cover 310 of the water supply switching box 300 is connected with the discharge port 202b of the 2nd tap water supply electromagnetic valve 202. FIG.

  One end of the cooling water injection pipe 740 is connected to the outflow connection port 324 provided in the water supply switching cover 310 of the water supply switching box 300, and the other end of the cooling water injection pipe 740 is connected to the dehumidification circuit 21 (FIG. 1). The cooling water for dehumidification is poured into the water cooling / dehumidifying member 50.

  Further, one end of the washing water injection pipe 750 is connected to the cooling tap water outflow connection port 325 provided in the water supply switching cover 310 of the water supply switching box 300, and the other end of the cleaning water injection pipe 750 is connected to the dehumidification circuit 21. It connects so that it may communicate with the upper part of this, and it is comprised so that the water cooling dehumidification member 50 may be poured into water. The lint and the like adhering to the water-cooled dehumidifying member 50 are washed by the washing water injection.

  As shown in FIG. 2, one end of a softener water injection pipe (not shown) is connected to the discharge port 203 b of the softener water supply solenoid valve 203, and the other end of the softener water injection pipe is the softener of the detergent softener case 8. It is connected to a supply unit (not shown).

  Further, one end of a detergent dissolving water injection pipe (not shown) is connected to the discharge port 204b of the detergent dissolving water supply solenoid valve 204, and the other end of the detergent dissolving water injection pipe is a detergent dissolving portion of the detergent softener case 8. (Not shown).

  As shown in FIG. 10, the ECU (control means) 900 controls processes from washing, rinsing, dehydration and drying to a timer 901, a central processing unit (CPU) 902, a memory 903, an input port 904, An output port 905 is provided. The central processing unit 902 includes a calculation unit 902a, a control unit 902b, and the like.

  The operation of the washing / drying machine 1 is driven and performed based on conditions set by exchanging data by the central processing unit 902, the timer 901, and the memory 903 in the ECU 900.

  The central processing unit 902 is basically a control command fetching, decoding, and execution command. Specifically, the central processing unit 902 is controlled by arithmetic operation or reading of memory-designated address contents, input / output of a designated address to an input / output device, and the like. Controls fully automatic courses and annual setting programs.

  The memory 903 includes two types, a RAM 903a having a function of reading and writing program data, and a ROM 903b having only a read-only function. The RAM 903a mainly stores data necessary for the washing operation conditions, and is used as a work area for creating a set program. The ROM 903b is used when a predetermined program or fixed data is entered and the same processing is performed at any time. The input port 904 and the output port 905 are circuits that mediate when data is exchanged among the central processing unit 902, the input circuit unit 906, and the output drive circuit unit 907.

  The output drive circuit unit 907 is connected to various sensors and a power switch 908 incorporated in the washing / drying machine 1, and various types of information are captured. Electric power necessary for operating the washing / drying machine 1 is supplied from the power switch 908.

  By pressing the power switch 908, the valves 201 to 204 of the water supply electromagnetic valve 200 are appropriately opened, and water and the like necessary for washing and rinsing are supplied into the outer tub 3.

  The amount of water necessary for washing and rinsing is received from the water level sensor 47 incorporated in the washing / drying machine 1 and processed by the central processing unit 902 to determine whether the amount of water is appropriate. If there is, the washing operation proceeds. Further, the water level sensor 47 performs detection during the drying operation, which will be described later.

  The rotation speed of the washing / drying drive motor 5 rotated by washing, dehydration, rinsing, drying, or the like is detected by an IC Hall element 920 provided in the vicinity of the washing / drying drive motor 5. Information detected by the IC Hall element 920 is processed by the central processing unit 902, and proper rotation control of the washing / drying drive motor 5 is performed.

  In addition, on the input circuit unit 906 side, a lid opening / closing sensor 921 that detects the opening / closing state of the lid, a washing / drying operation that continuously performs from washing to drying, a drying operation that performs only drying using bath water, and the like are set. There are provided a course selection key 922, a cloth amount sensor 923 for detecting the amount of laundry, a temperature sensor 924 for detecting the temperature of the drying air Q, and the like.

  The output drive circuit unit 907 includes a circulation fan 30, a washing and drying drive motor 5, a heater 40, a drain valve 44, a circulation pump 45, a first tap water supply electromagnetic valve 201, a second tap water supply electromagnetic valve 202, A softener water supply solenoid valve 203, a detergent dissolution water supply solenoid valve 204, a switching valve 400, a bath water pump 500, and the like are connected.

  While exchanging information with the ECU 900 side through the input circuit unit 906 and the output drive circuit unit 907, the washing / drying machine 1 automatically performs operations from washing, rinsing, dehydration and drying. Further, only a drying operation is performed.

  The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment. For example, a temperature sensor that detects the water temperature is provided in the cooling water supply path of bath water, and the temperature detected by the temperature sensor during the drying operation is a predetermined value. When the temperature is higher than the temperature, the second tap water supply electromagnetic valve 202 may be opened to use tap water as cooling water. Further, the driving course is not limited only to the washing / drying operation and the drying operation.

  Next, the operation of the washing / drying machine 1 of the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 11 to 16. FIG. 11 is an operation process diagram showing an example of an operation course using bath water of the washing and drying machine of the present embodiment, (a) is a washing and drying operation in which washing to drying is continuously performed, and (b) is drying. Only dry operation is shown. 12 is a schematic diagram showing the flow of tap water during the priming operation of the present embodiment, FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram showing the flow of bath water during the washing operation of the present embodiment, and FIG. 14 is a laundry of the present embodiment. Schematic diagram showing the flow of tap water during operation, FIG. 15 is a schematic diagram showing the flow of bath water during the drying operation of the present embodiment, and FIG. 16 is a schematic diagram showing the flow of tap water during the drying operation of the present embodiment. FIG. In the present embodiment, only the washing / drying operation and the drying operation are illustrated and described, but it is needless to say that a washing operation for performing only washing may be provided.

  As shown in FIG. 11 (a), in the washing / drying operation using bath water, first, in the priming step S100, the ECU 900 opens the second water supply electromagnetic valve 202 for tap water before starting the operation of the bath water pump 500. open. In the priming step S100, the switching valve 400 is closed. As a result, as shown in FIG. 12, tap water is discharged from the discharge port 202 b of the second tap water supply electromagnetic valve 202, and the second water channel chamber is passed through the second tap water inflow connection port 322 of the water supply switching box 300. 332. The tap water supplied to the second water channel chamber 332 exits from the cooling bath water inflow connection port 314, passes through the cooling bath water feed pipe 730, and flows from the discharge port 511 of the bath water pump 500 to the bath water pump 500. It collects in the pump casing 504. As the amount of tap water accumulated increases, the discharge port 510 of the bath water pump 500, the bath water discharge pipe 720, the inflow connection port 323, the third water channel chamber 333, the communication hole 324b (outflow connection port 324), and the cooling water injection pipe 740 The air in the pump casing 504 is released into the atmosphere via the water-cooled dehumidifying member 50, and the pump casing 504 is filled with tap water. Moreover, as the air in the second water channel chamber 332 is also filled with tap water, it finally enters the atmosphere via the communication hole 324a (outflow connection port 324), the cooling water injection pipe 740, and the water cooling / dehumidifying member 50. The supply water solenoid valve 202 for the second tap water is closed and the priming water supply ends. In FIG. 12, for convenience of explanation, the communication hole 324b, which is a through hole, is illustrated as a pipe having a length (the same applies to FIGS. 13 to 16).

  And it progresses to water supply process S201, ECU900 closes the drain valve 44, opens the switching valve 400, and starts the drive of the bath water pump 500. FIG. The bath water pumped up by the bath water pump 500 is, as shown in FIG. 13, a discharge port 510, a bath water discharge pipe 720, a third water channel chamber 333, a bath water outflow connection port 312 and a connection pipe 710 (see FIG. 2). The bath water inflow connection port 313, the first water channel chamber 331, the washing water outflow connection port 311, and the hose 800 are poured into the outer tub 3. In FIG. 13, bath water is illustrated as being poured into the inner tub 2, but actually, the bath water is poured into the outer tub 3 from between the inner tub 2 and the outer tub 3. Yes.

  Further, the ECU 900 opens the water solenoid valve 204 for dissolving the detergent (see FIG. 2) of the water solenoid valve 200, and tap water is supplied into the detergent softener case 8 from the discharge port 204b via a pipe (not shown). It flows into the outer tub 3 while dissolving the detergent in 8. When a predetermined amount of water is stored in the outer tub 3, the detergent dissolving water supply electromagnetic valve 204 is closed, and the process proceeds to the washing step S202.

  A part of the bath water supplied from the bath water pump 500 to the first water channel chamber 331 is poured into the water cooling / dehumidifying member 50 through the cooling tap water outflow connection port 325 and the washing water injection pipe 750. Thereby, the lint etc. adhering to the water-cooling dehumidification member 50 are wash | cleaned.

  Further, when performing a washing operation using tap water, as shown in FIG. 14, the first tap water supply electromagnetic valve 201 is opened by the ECU 900 so that the tap water is supplied to the first water supply switching box 300. It flows into the first water channel chamber 331 from the tap water inflow connection port 321. The tap water that has flowed into the first water channel chamber 331 flows into the outer tub 3 from the washing water outflow connection port 311 through the hose 800 (see the broken line arrow). In FIG. 14, tap water is shown to be poured into the inner tub 2, but actually, the tap water is poured into the outer tub 3 from between the inner tub 2 and the outer tub 3. Yes. Moreover, since the switching valve 400 is closed at this time, tap water does not flow out from the bath water inflow connection port 313 of the water supply switching box 300. Further, part of the tap water flowing into the first water channel chamber 331 flows to the water-cooled dehumidifying member 50 through the cooling tap water outflow connection port 325, and the lint and the like attached to the water-cooled dehumidifying member 50 is washed.

  In the washing step S202, under the control of the ECU 900, the washing / drying drive motor 5 is driven to rotate and the stirring blade 4 is rotated. At this time, the stirring blade 4 performs rest, right rotation, and left rotation. Due to the rotation of the stirring blade 4, the dirt adhering to the laundry is eluted into the washing water. When the washing step S202 is performed for a predetermined time, most of the dirt adhering to the laundry is eluted into the washing water.

  Then, the process proceeds to the draining step S203, where the ECU 900 stops the stirring blade 4, opens the drain valve 44, and discharges the dirty washing water to the outside of the washing dryer 1.

  When a predetermined time has elapsed and most of the dirty washing water is discharged to the outside, the process proceeds to the first dehydrating step S204, and the washing water contained in the laundry is dehydrated. In the dehydration step S204, the ECU 900 rotates the inner tub 2 at a high speed with the stirring blades 4 fixed, applies a centrifugal force (inertial force) to the laundry, and makes a number of dewatering holes (see FIG. Wash away washing water from (not shown).

  When the dehydration step S204 is performed for a predetermined time, the process proceeds to the water supply step S205, and a predetermined amount of washing water is stored in the outer tub 3 as rinse water as in the case of the water supply step S201 described above. Also in the water supply step S205, when rinsing is performed using bath water, bath water is supplied to the outer tub 3 through a route as shown in FIG. 13, and rinsing is performed using tap water. The tap water is supplied to the outer tub 3 through a route as shown in FIG.

  Then, the process proceeds to the first rinsing step S206, where the laundry is rinsed by rotating the stirring blade 4, and the detergent and dirt contained in the laundry are eluted into the washing water. When the laundry is rinsed for a predetermined time, the process proceeds to the draining step S207, the stirring blade 4 is stopped, and the drain valve 44 is opened to drain the rinse water to the outside.

  And dehydration process S208, water supply process S209, and rinse process S210 are performed similarly to above-mentioned dehydration process S204, water supply process S205, and rinse process S206. In this water supply step S209, the ECU 900 opens the softener water supply electromagnetic valve 203 of the water supply electromagnetic valve 200. Thereby, tap water is supplied into the detergent softener case 8, and the softening finish in the detergent softener case 8 is dissolved and flows into the outer tub 3. The rinsing is not limited to two times. For example, when rinsing is performed three times, bath water is used in the second rinsing and tap water is used in the third final rinsing. It may be.

  In the present embodiment, an example in which rinsing is performed twice for each washing has been described. However, taking into consideration the amount and quality of the laundry, the type of detergent, the temperature of the washing water, etc., once or three times It may be performed more than once.

  When the second rinsing step S210 is performed, the draining step S211 is performed in the same manner as the draining step S207 described above.

  And it progresses to final dehydration process S212, and the water | moisture content contained in the laundry is dehydrated. The final dewatering step S212 is basically the same as the dewatering step S204, but from the viewpoint of facilitating drying of the laundry after washing, the inner tub 2 is rotated at a higher speed for a longer time to increase the dewatering rate. It is preferable.

  Then, the process proceeds to the drying step S300, and the ECU 900 closes the drain valve 44 and starts the operation of the circulation fan 30 and the heater 40 as shown in FIG. As a result, the drying air Q heated by the heater 40 extracts moisture contained in the laundry and then circulates through a narrow passage narrowed between the ceiling of the bottom circulation path 20 and the accumulated water surface. Then, the drying air Q is supplied to the outer tub 3 via the dehumidifying circuit 21, the descending circuit 22, the ascending circuit 23, the return circuit 24, and the return connection circuit 25, and is washed in the inner tank 2. Things are dried.

  In the drying step S300 (when bath water is used), the bath water pump 500 is driven and the bath water pumped up is discharged from the discharge port 511, the cooling bath water feed pipe 730, and the cooling bath water inflow connection port 314. The water cooling dehumidification member 50 is supplied via the first water channel chamber 331, the communication hole 324a (outflow connection port 324), and the cooling water injection pipe 740. In the water-cooled dehumidifying member 50, the drying air Q and the cooling bath water (cooling water) come into contact with each other, and moisture contained in the drying air Q is removed.

  The operation of the bath water pump 500 in the drying step S300 is continuously performed, for example, at a low speed rotation of 5000 RPM. For example, after 30 minutes have elapsed since the start of the drying process, the drain valve 44 is closed for a predetermined time. During this time, the water level sensor 47 checks the presence or absence of cooling water.

  That is, when the drain valve 44 is closed, the bath water sucked up by the bath water pump 500, that is, the cooling water, can be accumulated in the bottom circulation path 20 which becomes the bottom of the outer tub 3, as shown in FIG. It is detected by the water level sensor 47. When the bath water runs out, water does not accumulate in the bottom circulation path 20, so that the presence or absence of bath water used for cooling water can be known by the detection of the water level sensor 47. This check for the presence or absence of cooling water is performed until the laundry is dried.

  When running out of bath water is detected, the ECU 900 opens the second water supply electromagnetic valve 202 for tap water, switches to cooling water using tap water, and continues the drying operation. There is no inconvenience that the drying operation is stopped halfway with no drying. That is, as shown in FIG. 16, when the second tap water supply electromagnetic valve 202 is opened, the tap water released from the discharge port 202 b passes through the second tap water inflow connection port 322 to the second water channel chamber 332. Flow into. The tap water that has flowed into the second water channel chamber 332 is supplied to the water-cooled dehumidifying member 50 from the communication hole 324a through the cooling water injection pipe 740.

  In the end step S213, the outer lid 7 is unlocked after the inner tub 2 is completely stopped, the end of washing is notified by a buzzer sound or the like, the main power is turned off, and the operation of the washing dryer 1 is stopped.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 11B, in the drying operation in which only the bath water is used for drying, the priming water is supplied to the bath water pump 500 in the priming step S100 prior to the start of the operation of the bath water pump 500. To do. As described with reference to FIG. 12, the priming operation is performed by opening the second water supply electromagnetic valve 202 for the tap water through the cooling bath water feed pipe 730 while the switching valve 400 is closed. Tap water flows into the bath water pump 500. The tap water flowing into the bath water pump 500 is released into the atmosphere by passing through the bath water discharge pipe 720, the third water channel chamber 333, the communication hole 324b, and the cooling water injection pipe 740 to the water cooling / dehumidifying member 50. Is done. Thus, in this embodiment, since the communication hole 324b (outflow connection port 324) communicating with the cooling water injection pipe 740 is provided in the third water channel chamber 333, the communication hole 324b functions as an air vent hole.

  After completion of the priming operation, the process proceeds to the drying step S300, and the drying operation is performed in the same manner as described above. After the drying operation is completed, the process proceeds to step S400 and the operation is terminated.

  Furthermore, referring to the washing / drying machines 1000A and 1000B shown in FIGS. 17A and 17B as comparative examples, the washing / drying machine 1 of the present embodiment is compared. 17 (a) and 17 (b) are schematic diagrams for explaining problems in the case of performing only drying in the structure of a conventional washing / drying machine. In addition, the same code | symbol is attached | subjected about the structure same as this embodiment. The washing / drying machines 1000 </ b> A and 1000 </ b> B include a T-shaped tube 1500 that connects a cooling bath water feed pipe 1400 to a portion that connects the bath water pump 500 and the third water channel chamber 1300.

  As shown in FIG. 17A, when the first tap water supply electromagnetic valve 201 is opened to perform priming water, tap water is supplied to the first tap water supply electromagnetic valve 201 in a state in which the switching valve 1001 is opened. To the first water channel chamber 1100 and to the bath water pump 500 via the switching valve 1001. The tap water supplied to the bath water pump 500 passes through the second water channel chamber 1200 through the cooling bath water feed pipe 1400 and escapes to the atmosphere. However, at this time, a part of the tap water from the first tap water supply electromagnetic valve 201 also flows out to the hose 800 and the tap water falls on the laundry in the inner tub 2 to wet the laundry. there were. Even if a switching valve is provided between the hose 800 and the bath water pump 500 so that the tap water does not flow through the hose 800, the switching valve opens due to the water pressure of the tap water, and the hose 800 has a tap. There is also the problem of water flowing in.

  In addition, as shown in FIG. 17B, even when the second tap water supply electromagnetic valve 202 is opened to perform priming, tap water is supplied to the second tap water supply electromagnetic valve with the switching valve 1001 open. From 202, the water is supplied to the bath water pump 500 via the second water channel chamber 1200 and the cooling bath water feed pipe 1400. However, since it is necessary to open the switching valve 1001 in order to vent the air, the tap water supplied to the bath water pump 500 passes through the first water channel chamber 1100 and the hose 800 through the switching valve 1001 and the inner tank 2. There is a problem that tap water falls on the laundry inside.

  Therefore, in the present embodiment, as described above, since the communication hole 324b that communicates with the atmosphere is provided in the third water channel chamber 333, the bath water pump can be used even when only drying is performed using bath water. Prior to the start of the 500 operation, the priming operation can be performed. Therefore, it is prevented that the laundry is wet with tap water even during the priming operation, and the laundry can be appropriately dried.

  In addition, according to the present embodiment, the communication hole 324b (exit of the air vent path) mainly for air venting and the communication hole 324a (exit of the cooling tap water supply path) of the second water channel chamber 332 leading to the water-cooled dehumidifying member 50 ) Are provided close to each other, it is possible to configure with one cooling water injection pipe 740, and the number of parts can be reduced. Moreover, since it is not necessary to newly provide a shut-off valve that shuts off during the priming operation at a position leading to the hose 800, an increase in the number of parts can be prevented.

  In addition, since the bath water pump 500 is used as a cooling water not only during the washing operation but also during the drying operation, it saves tap water.

  In the above-described embodiment, the communication hole 324a and the communication hole 324b are provided close to each other. However, the communication hole 324a and the communication hole 324b are not necessarily provided close to each other, and the communication hole 324a and the communication hole 324b are arranged apart from each other. Each may be connected to a separate pipe.

  Moreover, in this embodiment, since the priming water supply path is a common pipe with the cooling bath water feed pipe 730 (cooling bath water supply path), the number of parts can be reduced and the structure can be simplified.

It is the schematic when the inside of the washing dryer of this embodiment is seen from the side. It is a perspective view when the assembly of a water supply switching unit, a bath water pump, and various pipes is seen from the switching valve side. It is a perspective view when the assembly of a water supply switching unit, a bath water pump, and various pipes is seen from the water supply solenoid valve side. It is a disassembled perspective view of the water supply switching unit seen from the switching valve side. It is a perspective view when a water supply switching box is seen from the water supply electromagnetic valve side. (A) is a top view which shows the inner surface of the water supply switching cover of a water supply switching box, (b) is a top view which shows the inner surface of the water supply switching case of a water supply switching box. It is a perspective top view which shows a water supply switching box. It is sectional drawing which shows a switching valve. It is a longitudinal cross-sectional view which shows a bath water pump. It is a block diagram which shows a washing dryer. It is an operation | movement process figure which shows an example of the driving | running course using the bath water of the washing-drying machine of this embodiment, (a) is the washing-drying operation which performs continuously from washing to drying, (b) performs only drying. It is a dry operation. It is the schematic which shows the flow of the tap water at the time of priming operation. It is the schematic which shows the flow of the bath water at the time of a washing operation. It is the schematic which shows the flow of the tap water at the time of a washing operation. It is the schematic which shows the flow of the bath water at the time of drying operation. It is the schematic which shows the flow of the tap water at the time of drying operation. (A) And (b) is the schematic for demonstrating the problem in the case of performing a priming operation in the structure of the conventional washing dryer.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Washing-drying machine 2 Inner tank 3 Outer tank 4 Stirring blade 5 Drive motor 30 Circulation fan (blower means)
40 Heater (heating means)
50 Water-cooled dehumidifying member (dehumidifying means)
DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 100 Water supply switching unit 101 Tap water hose connection port 200 Water supply solenoid valve 201 1st water supply solenoid valve for tap water 202 202 Water supply solenoid valve for 2nd tap water 203 Water supply solenoid valve for softener 204 Water supply solenoid valve for detergent dissolution 201b-204b Discharge port 300 Water supply switching box 310 Water supply switching lid 320 Water supply switching case 311 Washing water outflow connection port 312 Bath water outflow connection port 313 Bath water inflow connection port 314 Cooling bath water inflow connection port 321 First tap water inflow connection port 322 Second water supply Water inflow connection port 323 Inflow connection port 324 Outflow connection port 324a Communication hole (outlet)
324b Communication hole (Air vent path)
325 Cooling tap water outlet connection port 331 (331a, 331b) First water channel room (Laundry water supply channel)
332 (332a, 332b) Second water channel chamber (cooling tap water supply route)
333 (333a, 333b) Third channel room (wash water supply channel for washing)
400 Switching valve 500 Bath water pump 510,511 Discharge port 520 Bath water hose connection port 710 Connection pipe 720 Bath water discharge pipe 730 Cooling bath water feed pipe (cooling bath water supply path)
740 Cooling water injection pipe 800 Hose 900 ECU
Q Air for drying

Claims (4)

An inner tub into which the laundry is put;
An outer tub that houses the inner tub and stores washing water;
A blowing means for sending drying air for drying the laundry;
Heating means for heating the drying air;
Dehumidifying means for dehumidifying moisture contained in the drying air;
In a washing and drying machine comprising a bath water pump that sucks up bath water,
Tap water as washing water, a tap water supply path for washing supplied to the outer tub through a hose,
Wash water supplied from the bath water pump as wash water, a wash bath water supply path for supplying to the outer tub through the hose,
A cooling tap water supply path for supplying tap water to the dehumidifying means as cooling water at the time of drying;
A cooling bath water supply path for supplying bath water supplied from the bath water pump to the dehumidifying means as cooling water at the time of drying;
A priming water supply path that is provided separately from the washing tap water supply path, and that supplies priming water supplied from the tap water to the bath water pump;
An air vent path provided in the washing bath water supply path and communicating with the dehumidifying means;
A washing / drying machine comprising a switching valve that switches a path of bath water supplied from the bath water pump to either the air vent path or the hose. The washing tap water supply path, the cooling tap water supply path, and the washing bath water supply path comprise a single water supply switching box configured by partitioning the inside,
The washing / drying machine according to claim 1, wherein an outlet of the cooling tap water supply path and an outlet of the air vent path of the water supply switching box are provided close to each other.   The washing / drying machine according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the air vent path is configured by a pipe common to the cooling bath water supply path. An inner tub into which the laundry is put;
An outer tub that houses the inner tub and stores washing water;
A blowing means for sending drying air for drying the laundry;
Heating means for heating the drying air;
Dehumidifying means for dehumidifying moisture contained in the drying air;
A bath water pump for sucking up bath water,
In a washing and drying machine having a control means for performing an operation including a washing and drying operation in which a series of steps from washing to drying are continuously performed and a drying operation in which only a drying process is performed
Further comprising priming water supply means for supplying priming water to the bath water pump,
The control means supplies the priming water through the priming water supply means at the start of the drying operation, and performs the drying operation after the priming water supply ends.

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