JP2009089958A - Drum type washing/drying machine - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a drum type washing/drying machine having an atomization unit that never wrongly detects the level of water stored inside the device and capable of exhibiting excellent wrinkle reducing effects by effectively moistening the surface of clothes at appropriate drying rate. <P>SOLUTION: The atomization unit 30 comprises an atomization chamber 31 for storing water 21 fed from a water supply port 31 as a mist generating source; an ultrasonic vibrator 32 for applying ultrasonic vibration to the water 21 stored in the atomization chamber 31 to be atomized; and a water level sensor 33 disposed on a side wall 31c of the atomization chamber for detecting the level of the water 21 stored in the atomization chamber 31. The water level sensor 33 is composed of at least two conducting sensors 33a and 33c disposed on the side wall 31c of the atomization chamber in the vertical direction. Eaves 33j to cover the upper part of the conducting sensor 33a are disposed at least above the conducting sensor 33a disposed at the uppermost position. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2009,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to an atomizing unit and a drum-type washing and drying machine that includes the atomizing unit and supplies mist to laundry such as dried clothes to reduce wrinkles that have entered the clothes.

  Conventionally, in the drying process, the rotating drum containing the laundry such as clothes is rotated at a high speed, and the laundry is dried while sticking to the inner wall of the rotating drum. It is inevitable that wrinkles enter clothing, and it is necessary to add trouble to stretch the wrinkles when hanging such clothes on a hanger, etc. there were.

  Therefore, recently equipped with an atomizing unit that generates mist consisting of fine droplets, introducing mist into a rotating drum containing clothing, etc., and washing and drying to reduce static electricity and wrinkles that entered clothing etc. in the drying process For example, an apparatus having a configuration as shown in Patent Document 1 below is known.

In the washing / drying machine 40 disclosed in Patent Document 1, as shown in FIG. 15A, an outer tub 42 that is elastically suspended inside the housing 41 and a rotatable arrangement within the outer tub 42. An inner tub 43 for storing the laundry, a blowing means 44 (circulation blower) for blowing warm air into the inner tub 43, a heating means 45 for heating the air blown by the blowing means 44, and a heat exchanger And a hot air circulation path 46 that circulates warm air by the blowing means 44, and the spray device 47 passes through the heating means 45 (heater) of the hot air circulation path 46 (hot air supply path). It is provided in the vicinity of the hot air supply port 48, and is configured to spray mist into the hot air circulation path in the drying process. And it is said that the static electricity which generate | occur | produces when clothes are stirred at a drying process can be removed, the discomfort to the human body by static electricity can be eliminated, and the wrinkles of the clothes after drying can be reduced.
JP 2003-311067 A

  As shown in FIG. 15 (b), the spray device 47 used in the washing / drying machine 40 disclosed in Patent Document 1 includes a water inlet 47 a connected to the water supply pipe, and a spray port 47 b for spraying mist. In the drying process, the mist is sprayed into the hot air circulation path 46, and the water supplied from the water inlet 47a is mechanically misted by the internal mechanism and sprayed from the spray port 47b. To do. Accordingly, the mist ejected from the spray port 47b is mainly composed of coarse droplets and is inferior in floatability. Therefore, in this washing / drying machine 40, the mist is sufficiently applied to every corner in the inner tub 43. There is a problem in that it cannot be filled, the entire garment cannot be moistened, and wrinkles cannot be effectively reduced over the entire garment after drying.

  The inventors of the present invention have conducted intensive studies on a method for reducing wrinkles of laundry using mist. According to the detailed study by the present inventors, it is possible to stretch the wrinkles of the laundry by appropriately moistening the laundry and then drying it. That is, when this laundry is moistened, it is important to uniformly moisten with a mist to a drying rate of 90 to 96% (ideally 95%), and when drying, it is important to dry to a drying rate of 99% or more. It has been found that. Here, the drying rate is a value obtained by multiplying a value obtained by dividing the weight of the laundry in a state before washing by the weight of the laundry after being moistened by 100 and expressed in%.

  According to the knowledge obtained by the present inventors, by uniformly moistening the laundry at a drying rate of 90 to 96%, dissociating the hydrogen bonds that bind the fibers of the laundry, the fibers can move freely. Can be. In this state, the wrinkles contained in the laundry are stretched by being rotated in the rotating drum, and then dried to a drying rate of 99% or more, so that the wrinkled stretched fibers are renewed. Hydrogen bonds can be formed to fix the fibers. That is, the laundry can be dried in a state where the wrinkles are reliably extended.

  However, when the ultrasonic atomization method is adopted as the mist generating means, the amount of mist generated per unit time is the temperature of the water that is the mist generating source, the input voltage to the oscillation circuit unit that drives the ultrasonic transducer Increase or decrease due to changes. For example, when an ultrasonic transducer that oscillates at 1.6 MHz is used, if other conditions are fixed and only the water temperature is changed from 5 ° C. to 30 ° C., the amount of mist generated is about 1.5 times. Further, if only the voltage input to the oscillation circuit is changed from 95V to 107V, the amount of mist generated is also about 1.5 times here. Usually, the water temperature change and voltage change described above are possible changes under normal usage environment in the home, so the drying rate of the laundry is optimal for spreading wrinkles under the conditions that minimize the amount of mist generated. If adjusted to be in the range of 90 to 96%, the mist generation amount becomes excessive under the condition that the mist generation amount is maximized, and the drying rate of the laundry is reduced to nearly 70%, and the wetness is unevenly obtained. Therefore, the meaning of using mist is lost. On the other hand, if the drying rate of the laundry is adjusted to a range of 90 to 96% which is optimal for spreading wrinkles under the condition where the amount of mist generation is maximized, the laundry is almost free under conditions where the amount of mist generation is minimized. There is a problem that the laundry does not get wet and the drying rate of the laundry is only about 99%.

In addition, when the water level stored in the atomizer drops significantly, the temperature of the water rises, and not only does the amount of mist generated per unit time change, but also the ultrasonic vibrator deteriorates or is destroyed. Sometimes. There is a use upper limit temperature in the ultrasonic vibrator, and the ultrasonic vibrator is likely to be deteriorated when the ultrasonic vibrator is used exceeding this upper limit temperature. The upper limit temperature for use of the ultrasonic vibrator is derived from the internal structure of the piezoelectric element. For example, the ultrasonic vibrator has a piezoelectric ceramic body made of lead zirconate titanate and the like, and an electrode solidified by applying molten silver to the lower surface and outer peripheral surface thereof, and the surface is made of stainless steel foil or titanium foil. It is protected by being covered with a surface protective material and a plating layer applied thereon. Usually, the piezoelectric ceramic body on which the electrodes are arranged and the surface protective material are bonded using an adhesive such as an epoxy resin, but the usable upper limit temperature is limited by the material of the adhesive. That is, since the adhesive strength of the epoxy resin adhesive starts to decrease when the ambient temperature exceeds about 40 ° C. and considerably decreases when the ambient temperature exceeds about 60 ° C., the ultrasonic vibration in which such an epoxy resin adhesive is used. In the child, the practical use upper limit temperature is about 50 ° C.

  If the material of the adhesive changes, the use upper limit temperature changes. Therefore, it is difficult to uniquely define the use upper limit temperature of the ultrasonic vibrator, but in the case of an ultrasonic vibrator using an epoxy resin adhesive, 50 It is desirable to use in a temperature range of less than or equal to ° C (for example, 45 to 50 ° C). Further, in the case of an ultrasonic vibrator using another adhesive, it is desirable to use it in a temperature range of (upper limit temperature −5 ° C.) or higher and lower than the upper limit temperature of use. When the water temperature in the atomizer exceeds the upper limit temperature of the ultrasonic vibrator, the ultrasonic vibrator is likely to deteriorate, and the surface protective material and the plating layer are peeled off. Moreover, since the temperature of the mist generated in the atomization unit becomes low when the water temperature in the atomizer becomes lower than (the upper limit temperature of use −5 ° C.), the effect of efficiently moistening the entire clothing is sufficiently obtained. It becomes impossible.

  Further, if the state in which the water level in the atomizer is extremely lowered (for example, the airing state) continues, the piezoelectric ceramic body itself of the ultrasonic vibrator is destroyed.

  In order to prevent this situation, a water level sensor that measures the water level in the atomizer and a temperature sensor that measures the water temperature in the atomizer are used. For example, in order to detect the water level state in the atomizer, a water level sensor configured by vertically arranging a pair of conduction sensors each having a single electrode in the storage water area of the atomizer is used. In this case, when a current flows between the pair of conduction sensors, it is detected that the water level in the atomization device is higher than the arrangement position of the conduction sensor located above. In addition, a temperature sensor such as a thermistor is disposed near the ultrasonic transducer that avoids the ultrasonic oscillation area to measure the water temperature in the atomizer.

  However, in order to replenish the water consumed by atomization in the atomizer, water is continuously or intermittently supplied from the water supply port, and the continuity sensor and atomizer above the actual water level. Water splashes on the side wall of and adheres as water droplets. And when an electric current flows between the conduction sensor which the water droplet adhered, and the conduction sensor in the lower layer through this conduction sensor and the water droplet which adhered to the side wall of the atomization device, the water level in the atomization device It is erroneously detected that the position is higher than the position where the conduction sensor located above is disposed. That is, it is erroneously detected that the water level is higher than the actual water level. In this way, if the water level in the atomizer cannot be accurately determined and it is erroneously detected that the water level is higher than the actual water level, even if the water level in the atomizer drops significantly, This cannot be detected, the ultrasonic vibrator continues to operate, the water temperature rises, and not only the amount of mist generated per unit time changes as described above, but also the deterioration and destruction of the ultrasonic vibrator. Will be invited.

  Such a technical problem is not disclosed in the above-mentioned Patent Document 1, and as described above, the laundry dryer 40 disclosed in this document appropriately moistens the entire dried clothing, The wrinkles attached to can not be reduced.

  The present invention has been made in view of the problems as described above, and includes an atomization unit that does not erroneously detect the water level of water stored in the apparatus, and effectively and appropriately protects the clothing surface. An object of the present invention is to provide a drum-type washing and drying machine capable of exhibiting an excellent wrinkle reduction effect by being moistened to a drying rate.

In the drum-type washing and drying machine according to the first aspect of the present invention, a rotating drum is formed in a water tub, which has a large number of through holes and accommodates laundry, and is rotated in the water tank. Washing, rinsing, dehydration, and drying are performed by controlling the rotation of the drum, and mist is generated in the rotating drum in an independent process separate from the above processes or in the drying process. In the drum-type washing and drying machine comprising a spray unit that performs deodorization, the atomization unit is supplied with an atomization chamber that stores water as a mist generation source from a water supply port provided at an upper position, and An ultrasonic transducer that is provided below the atomization chamber to apply ultrasonic vibration to the water stored in the atomization chamber and atomizes, and is provided in the atomization chamber side wall and stored in the atomization chamber Water level The water level sensor comprises at least two continuity sensors arranged in the vertical direction of the side wall of the atomization chamber, and the continuity sensor is arranged at least at the uppermost position among the continuity sensors. A ridge that covers the continuity sensor is provided above the sensor, and the ridge that covers the continuity sensor is disposed with an inclination that is displaced upward as it protrudes inward from the side wall of the atomization chamber. It is characterized by.

According to the drum-type washer / dryer of the invention according to claim 1, since the basket covering the upper side of the conduction sensor is disposed on the side wall of the atomization chamber with an inclination angle that is displaced upward as it goes inward, Water droplets adhering to the soot flow to the side wall of the atomization chamber through this soot, and do not adhere to this conduction sensor secondarily, and the water level of the water stored in the atomization chamber is erroneously detected. Can be prevented more reliably. Thus, it is possible to maintain the proper range of the water level of the atomization chamber on the basis of the precisely detected level state, Ki out possible to prevent deterioration or destruction of the ultrasonic transducers, moreover, a garment surface By effectively moistening to an appropriate drying rate, an excellent wrinkle reducing effect and a deodorizing effect can be exhibited.

The drum-type washing / drying machine of the invention according to claim 2 is the drum-type washing / drying machine of the invention according to claim 1, wherein the conduction sensors arranged in the vertical direction are arranged with their positions shifted in the horizontal direction. It is characterized by being provided.

According to the drum type washing and drying machine of the invention according to claim 2 of this, since at least two conductive sensor is arranged in the vertical direction is arranged by shifting the position in the horizontal direction to each other, the adjacent conductive sensor It is possible to prevent the water level state of the water stored in the atomization chamber from being erroneously detected via the conduction sensor and the water droplets attached to the side wall of the atomization chamber. . This makes it possible to maintain the water level in the atomization chamber within an appropriate range based on the accurately detected water level state, prevent deterioration and destruction of the ultrasonic vibrator, and effectively improve the clothing surface. In particular, it can be moistened to an appropriate drying rate to exhibit an excellent wrinkle reduction effect and a deodorizing effect.

The drum-type washing / drying machine according to claim 3 is the drum-type washing / drying machine according to any one of claims 1 to 2, wherein the uppermost conduction sensor is the lower part. It is characterized in that it is arranged so as to protrude inward of the side wall of the atomization chamber rather than the conduction sensor arranged in the above.

According to the drum type washing and drying machine of the invention according to claim 3 , the uppermost conduction sensor is disposed so as to protrude inward of the atomizing chamber side wall than the conduction sensor disposed below. For this reason, when the water droplet attached to the uppermost conduction sensor falls downward, it is suppressed from being secondarily attached to the conduction sensor arranged below. Thereby, it is possible to more reliably prevent the water level state of the water stored in the atomization chamber from being erroneously detected, and to maintain the water level in the atomization chamber within an appropriate range based on the accurately detected water level state. It is possible to prevent deterioration and destruction of the ultrasonic vibrator, and to effectively moisten the clothing surface to an appropriate drying rate and to exhibit an excellent wrinkle reduction effect and deodorization effect. it can.

A drum type washing and drying machine according to a fourth aspect of the invention is the drum type washing and drying machine according to any one of the first to third aspects, wherein the drum type washing and drying machine is provided above the uppermost conduction sensor. The soot is provided so as to protrude inward of the side wall of the atomizing chamber rather than the soot provided above the conduction sensor disposed below.

According to the drum type washer / dryer of the invention according to claim 4 , the basket provided above the uppermost conduction sensor is fogged more than the basket provided above the conduction sensor disposed below. Since it is disposed so as to protrude inward from the side wall of the chemical conversion chamber, it is possible to suppress water droplets from adhering to the uppermost conduction sensor and to prevent water droplets adhering to the uppermost conduction sensor. When falling downward, secondary adhesion to the conduction sensor disposed below is suppressed. Accordingly, it is possible to more effectively prevent the water level state of the water stored in the atomization chamber from being erroneously detected, and to maintain the water level in the atomization chamber within an appropriate range based on the accurately detected water level state. It is possible to prevent deterioration and destruction of the ultrasonic vibrator, and also to effectively moisten the clothing surface to an appropriate drying rate to exhibit an excellent wrinkle reducing effect and deodorizing effect. Can do.

The drum-type washing / drying machine of the invention according to claim 5 is the drum-type washing / drying machine of the invention according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the drum-type washing / drying machine is disposed between the conduction sensors arranged in the vertical direction. A partition plate protruding inward from the side wall of the atomizing chamber and extending in a substantially horizontal direction is provided.

According to the drum type washing and drying machine of the invention according to claim 5 , the partition plate that protrudes inwardly from the atomizing chamber side wall and extends in the substantially horizontal direction between at least two conduction sensors arranged in the vertical direction. Therefore, when water drops adhering to the continuity sensor disposed above drop down, the water droplets are blocked by the partition plate, and are prevented from secondarily adhering to the continuity sensor disposed below. Will be. Accordingly, it is possible to more effectively prevent the water level state of the water stored in the atomization chamber from being erroneously detected, and to maintain the water level in the atomization chamber within an appropriate range based on the accurately detected water level state. It is possible to prevent deterioration and destruction of the ultrasonic vibrator, and also to effectively moisten the clothing surface to an appropriate drying rate to exhibit an excellent wrinkle reducing effect and deodorizing effect. Can do.

A drum type washing and drying machine according to a sixth aspect of the invention is the drum type washing and drying machine according to any one of the first to fifth aspects, wherein at least the uppermost of the continuity sensors is disposed. A water intake plate is provided above the sensor and below the water supply port to guide the water supplied from the water supply port to a position away from the water supply port, and the water supply plate includes the water supply port. It extends in a substantially horizontal direction from the provided water supply port forming side wall to the vicinity of the water supply port facing side wall facing the water supply port forming side wall, and is supplied from the water supply port between the water inlet plate and the water supply port facing side wall. A gap for flowing water along the side wall facing the water supply port is opened.

According to the drum type washer / dryer of the invention according to claim 6 , the water suction plate provided at least above the conduction sensor disposed at the uppermost position among the conduction sensors and below the water supply port It extends from the water supply port forming side wall provided with the water supply port to the vicinity of the water supply port facing side wall opposite to this, and a gap is opened between the water inlet plate and the water supply port facing side wall, and is supplied from the water supply port Since the water flows along the side wall facing the water supply port through the gap, the water flowing down along the side wall facing the water supply port is applied to the continuity sensor disposed on the uppermost side. It is avoided by the heel that covers the upper part of the surface, and it is prevented from adhering as a water droplet to the uppermost conduction sensor. Accordingly, it is possible to more effectively prevent the water level state of the water stored in the atomization chamber from being erroneously detected, and to maintain the water level in the atomization chamber within an appropriate range based on the accurately detected water level state. It is possible to prevent deterioration and destruction of the ultrasonic vibrator, and also to effectively moisten the clothing surface to an appropriate drying rate to exhibit an excellent wrinkle reducing effect and deodorizing effect. Can do.

The drum type washing and drying machine according to claim 7 is the drum type washing and drying machine according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the drum type washing and drying machine is disposed on the lower surface of the water intake plate and on the uppermost side. The water intake rib that connects the upper surface of the ridge provided above the conduction sensor in a substantially vertical direction is provided so as to protrude inward from the side wall of the atomization chamber.

According to the drum-type washing and drying machine of the invention according to claim 7 , the water intake rib for connecting the two is provided between the upper surface of the bag above the conduction sensor disposed at the uppermost position and the lower surface of the water supply plate. Since it protrudes inward from the side wall of the atomizing chamber and is provided in a substantially vertical direction, the water flowing from the water supply port and flowing along the side wall facing the water supply port is regulated in the direction of flow by the water intake rib, and is arranged at the uppermost position. Covering the continuity sensor is prevented from being applied to the continuity sensor, and it is more effectively prevented from adhering as a water droplet to the continuity sensor disposed at the uppermost position. Thereby, it is possible to further reliably prevent the water level state of the water stored in the atomization chamber from being erroneously detected, and to maintain the water level in the atomization chamber within an appropriate range based on the accurately detected water level state. It is possible to prevent deterioration and destruction of the ultrasonic vibrator, and to effectively moisten the clothing surface to an appropriate drying rate and to exhibit an excellent wrinkle reduction effect and deodorization effect. it can.

The drum-type washing / drying machine according to an eighth aspect of the present invention is the drum-type washing / drying machine according to the sixth or seventh aspect, wherein the uppermost conduction sensor includes the water intake plate and the water supply. It is arranged to be shifted in a direction away from a lower position of a gap opened between the mouth-opposing side walls.

According to the drum type washing and drying machine of the invention according to claim 8 , the direction in which the uppermost conduction sensor is spaced from the lower position of the gap opened between the water intake plate and the side wall facing the water supply port. Therefore, the water supplied from the water supply port and flowing down along the side wall facing the water supply port is applied to the uppermost conduction sensor located at a position separated from the lower position of the gap as a water droplet. Adhesion is suppressed. Accordingly, it is possible to more effectively prevent the water level state of the water stored in the atomization chamber from being erroneously detected, and to maintain the water level in the atomization chamber within an appropriate range based on the accurately detected water level state. It is possible to prevent deterioration and destruction of the ultrasonic vibrator, and also to effectively moisten the clothing surface to an appropriate drying rate to exhibit an excellent wrinkle reducing effect and deodorizing effect. Can do.

  According to the present invention, there is provided an atomizing unit capable of effectively moistening clothing and the like by generating high temperature mist and condensing moisture on the surface of clothing and the like, and such an atomizing unit. A drum-type washing and drying machine can be provided.

  DESCRIPTION OF EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENTS Hereinafter, the best mode for carrying out the drum type washing and drying machine of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. It should be understood that the embodiments disclosed below are illustrative in all respects and are not restrictive. The technical scope of the present invention is shown not by the content disclosed in the embodiment but by the description of the scope of claims, and further includes all modifications within the meaning and scope equivalent to the scope of claims. Should be understood.

(Embodiment 1)
First, the structure and operation of the drum-type washing / drying machine 1 provided with the atomizing unit 30 according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to FIGS. FIG. 1 is a side cross-sectional view for explaining the structure of a drum-type washing / drying machine according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention, and FIG. 2 is an arrangement of circulation air flow paths and atomization units of the drum-type washing / drying machine. It is the perspective view seen from the housing | casing back surface for demonstrating. FIG. 3 is a partially cutaway cross-sectional view as seen from the rear side of the housing for explaining the flow of dry air and mist in the circulation blower path and the atomization unit of the drum type washing and drying machine. FIG. 5 is a partially cutaway cross-sectional view seen from the back side of the housing for explaining the connection structure between the circulating air blowing path of the drum type washing and drying machine and the atomization unit. FIG. 5 is a side sectional view for explaining a connection structure between the atomizing unit of the drum type washing and drying machine and the water tank, and FIG. 6 is an enlarged side sectional view thereof.

  In the drum-type washing and drying machine 1 according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention, a water tank 3 is suspended in a washing / drying machine housing 2 by a suspension structure (not shown) and is formed in a bottomed cylindrical shape in the water tank 3. The rotating drum 4 is disposed such that its axial direction is inclined downward from the front side to the back side. A clothing doorway leading to the opening end of the rotating drum 4 is formed on the front side of the water tank 3, and a door 5 that closes the opening provided on the upward inclined surface formed on the front side of the washing and drying machine housing 2 so as to be openable and closable. The laundry can be taken in and out of the rotary drum 4 through the clothing doorway. Since the door 5 is provided on the upwardly inclined surface, the work for putting in and out the laundry can be performed without bending the waist, and the workability of the drum-type washing machine for taking in and out the laundry from the side opening is generally horizontal. The badness of has been improved.

  The rotating drum 4 is provided with a plurality of through holes 4c communicating with the inside of the water tank 3 in the peripheral wall 4a and the bottom wall 4b, and the bottom wall 4b is opposed to the air inlet 18 formed in the water tank 3. Bottom openings 4d are formed at a plurality of positions along the circumferential direction, and stirring protrusions 4e are provided at a plurality of positions on the inner surface of the peripheral wall 4a. The rotating drum 4 is rotationally driven in the forward and reverse directions by a motor 6 attached to the back side of the water tank 3. Further, a water supply pipe 7 and a drain pipe 8 are connected to the water tank 3, and water is supplied into the water tank 3 and drained from the water tank 3 by control of a water supply valve and a drain valve (not shown).

  When the door 5 is opened, laundry and detergent are put into the rotary drum 4 from the opening, and the operation of the drum-type washing / drying machine 1 is started, a predetermined amount of water is poured into the water tank 3 from the water supply pipe 7. The rotating drum 4 is rotationally driven by the motor 6 and the washing process is started. By the rotation of the rotating drum 4, the laundry accommodated in the rotating drum 4 is lifted in the rotating direction by the stirring protrusion 4e provided on the inner peripheral wall of the rotating drum 4, and the stirring that falls from the lifted appropriate height position. Since the operation is repeated, the laundry has the effect of tapping and washing.

  After the required washing time has elapsed, the dirty washing liquid is discharged from the drain pipe 8, and the washing liquid contained in the laundry is dehydrated by a dehydrating operation that rotates the rotating drum 4 at a high speed. Then, water is supplied from the water supply pipe 7 to perform the rinsing / dehydration process. Also in the rinsing / dehydrating step, the laundry accommodated in the rotating drum 4 is repeatedly agitated by being lifted and dropped by the agitating protrusion 4e by the rotation of the rotating drum 4, and rinsed. Then, after rinsing, the water contained in the laundry is dehydrated again by the dehydration operation of rotating the rotating drum 4 at a high speed, and the rinsing / dehydration step is completed.

  The drum-type washing / drying machine 1 has a function of drying laundry stored in the rotating drum 4. The air in the water tank 3 is exhausted to dehumidify, and the heated dry air is blown into the water tank 3 again. A circulating air passage 9 is provided. In the middle of the circulation air passage 9, dehumidifying means such as the evaporator 10, heating means such as the condenser 11, and air blowing means such as the air blowing fan 12 are provided at a lower position in the washing and drying machine housing 2. Yes. The circulation air flow path 9 is composed of a circulation air introduction line 13 between the water tank 3 and the blower fan 12 and a dry air air supply line 14 between the blower fan 12 and the water tank 3. An atomizing unit 30 described later is connected to an upper position close to the air inlet 18 formed on the bottom surface of the water tank 3 in the conduit 14.

  The dry air blowing duct 14 is configured with a lower duct 15, a flexible duct 16, and an upper duct 17 in order from the upstream side in the space behind the washing / drying machine casing 2 (the back side of the water tank 3). A communication port 17 a is opened below the downstream end of the upper pipe line 17, and the communication port 17 a is connected to an air guide port 18 provided on the back surface of the water tank 3. The upper pipe line 17 is inclined to rise toward the center of the housing 2 in the lower part thereof, bent approximately 90 ° in the middle, and downward in the upper part toward the air inlet 18 of the water tank 3. Inclined. The flexible duct 16 is configured by using a flexible pipe material, and prevents the vibration of the lower pipe line 15 accompanying the rotation of the rotary drum 4 or the start / stop from being transmitted to the blower fan 12 side. . The dry air dehumidified by the evaporator 10 and heated by the condenser 11 is sent from the air inlet 18 to the water tank 3 and the rotating drum 4 located inside the air duct 18 via the dry air blowing duct 14.

  By rotating and driving the blower fan 12 at high speed, an air flow is generated in the circulation blower passage 9, and the humid air in the rotary drum 4 containing the laundry passes through the through holes 4c provided in the peripheral wall 4a. The air is exhausted from the water tank 3 to the circulating air introduction pipe 13 to the blower fan 12 side, dehumidified by dew condensation by the evaporator 10 located upstream of the blower fan 12, and heated by heat exchange with the condenser 11. As a result, high-temperature dry air is obtained.

  The heated dry air is sent out from the blower fan 12 to the dry air blower conduit 14 to the water tank 3, and is sent into the water tank 3 through the air inlet 18 provided in the water tank 3. The high-temperature dry air sent into the water tank 3 is introduced into the rotating drum 4 through a bottom opening 4d and a through hole 4c provided in the bottom wall 4b of the rotating drum 4, and flows between laundry such as clothes. While being dried, it becomes moist air, passes through the through holes 4c provided in the peripheral wall 4a to the water tank 3, and is again introduced into the circulating air introduction conduit 13. A drying process is implemented by the circulation of the air in such a circulation ventilation path 9 (circulation air introduction pipe line 13, dry air ventilation pipe line 14).

  Here, the drum type washing / drying machine 1 according to the first embodiment aims to extend and reduce wrinkles of dry clothes while rotating the atomizing unit 30 and the rotating drum 4 described later. A wrinkle-free course is provided. In this “wrinkle spreading course”, the evaporator 10 and the condenser 11 are stopped, the rotational speed of the rotary drum 4 and the blower fan 12 is rotated at a lower speed than in the normal drying process, and the atomization unit 30 is activated. As a result, the mist 20 made of fine droplets is generated in the atomizing unit 30 and the mist 20 is dropped into the dry air flow flowing through the dry air blowing duct 14. In a state where a lot of fine wet mist and dry mist are present, the water is fed into the water tank 3 and introduced into the rotating drum 4. In this way, a process is performed in which the mist 20 is filled to every corner in the rotating drum 4 to effectively moisten the clothing surface and to reduce the wrinkles of the clothing in a dry state. Is done. Further, after that, the atomization unit 30 is stopped, the rotational speeds of the rotary drum 4 and the blower fan 12 are increased to the same speed as the normal drying process, and the evaporator 10 and the condenser 11 are operated, A drying operation can be performed to stretch the wrinkles of the clothing while drying the clothing.

  Further, in the above-described “wrinkle spreading course”, it is possible to reduce wrinkles with the mist 20 as described above, and further, a deodorizing effect can be expected by the following principle. Usually, the odor is attached to the clothing surface as a odor component as a molecule. For example, the odor of tobacco or grilled meat is the same, but when the mist 20 hits the odor molecule, the odor molecule bonded to the fiber is replaced with water molecule, and is detached from the clothing. Then, after such mist treatment, a drying operation is performed, and the water in which the odor component is dissolved is evaporated by high-temperature and low-humidity air, thereby preventing the odor molecule from reattaching to the clothing and deodorizing. It becomes possible.

Next, the structure of the atomization unit 30 and the configuration of the “wrinkle spreading course” according to the first embodiment will be described in detail with reference to FIGS. 7 to 9 and the previous drawings. FIG. 7 is a side sectional view for explaining the structure of the atomizing unit of the drum-type washing / drying machine according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention, FIG. 8 is a rear sectional view thereof, and FIG. It is the front sectional drawing. The atomization unit 30 is disposed in the rear (rear) side of the water tank 3, and is stored in a water reservoir 31 (atomization chamber) that stores water 21 (liquid) as a mist generation source, and in the water reservoir 31. An ultrasonic transducer 32 that applies ultrasonic vibration to the water 21 and a water level sensor 33 that detects the water level of the water 21 stored in the water reservoir 31 are provided. And the water reservoir 31 of the atomization unit 30 is an upper pipe of the dry air ventilation duct 14 (circulation ventilation path 9) directly via the connection port 31g in the upper position adjacent to the air guide port 18 in the back surface of the water tank 3. It is connected to the path 17.

  The water reservoir 31 is disposed outside the rear surface of the water tank 3, and a front side wall 31b on the front side facing the water tank 3 of the water reservoir 31 is formed to be inclined with respect to the vertical direction along the rear surface of the water tank 3. A rear side wall 31c (atomization chamber side wall) on the rear side is formed in a substantially vertical direction along the back panel of the washing and drying machine housing 2, and the bottom wall 31a side of the water reservoir container 31 is formed wide. Further, the water supply in which water 21 is injected from a water injection device 34 disposed at an appropriate location around the atomization unit 30 at a position above the water supply port forming side wall 31 d on the side connected to the upper pipe line 17 of the water reservoir 31. A port 31f is provided, and an opening weir 31h is provided below the water supply port forming side wall 31d. As a result, the upper portion of the opening weir 31h is opened and connected to the upper pipe line 17 at the upper portion of the air guide port 18. A connection port 31g is formed. In addition, the water supply port formation side wall 31d and the water supply port opposing side wall 31e facing this are formed in parallel to each other and in a substantially vertical direction.

  By causing the water 21 injected from the water injection device 34 into the water reservoir 31 through the water supply port 31f to overflow from the opening weir 31h to the upper conduit 17 above the air guide port 18 through the connection port 31g, a simple operation can be performed. It is comprised so that the water 21 in the water reservoir 31 may be maintained at a constant full water level. The water 21 overflowed from the opening weir 31h is supplied to the water tank 3 through the connection port 31g, the upper pipe line 17 and the air guide port 18, and is discharged outside the apparatus through the drain pipe line 8.

  The ultrasonic transducer 32 is disposed such that the ultrasonic oscillation surface 32a of the piezoelectric element that generates ultrasonic vibrations is in close contact with the bottom wall 31a of the water reservoir container 31, and is activated by operating the piezoelectric element. Ultrasonic vibration is transmitted in the direction 32 b (direction perpendicular to the ultrasonic oscillation surface 32 a), and the liquid column 22 is formed in the water 21 in the water reservoir 31. As shown in FIG. 7, since the ultrasonic transducer 32 is attached so that the ultrasonic oscillation surface 32a faces the rear side wall 31c, the liquid column 22 extends in the direction of the rear side wall 31c and will be described later. It is formed toward the direction of the water intake plate 31k. As the liquid column 22 is formed, the water 21 in the water reservoir 31 rises along the liquid column 22 and is blocked by the lower surface of the water intake plate 31k, as shown by the arrows, and the front side wall 31b and the rear side wall. Convection of water 21 and air descending along the inner surface of 31c occurs. At the same time, the ultrasonic vibration transmitted through the liquid column 22 finely vibrates the surface of the water 21, thereby weakening the surface tension near the tip of the liquid column 22 and responding to the fine vibration of the liquid column 22. A mist 20 (mist) which is a fine droplet is generated, and the mist 20 is discharged toward the ultrasonic wave transmission direction 32b so as to be pushed out by the convection motion of the water 21, and the convection of the water 21 and air. According to the lower surface of the water intake plate 31k and the inner surface of the front side wall 31b and the rear side wall 31c, and then the connection port 31g along the inner surface of the stored water 21, the front side wall 31b and the inner surface of the rear side wall 31c. Through the upper duct 17 above the air duct 18. The mist 20 discharged to the upper duct 17 is sent to the water tank 3 from the air guide port 18 immediately below, and is further introduced into the rotating drum 4 through the bottom opening 4 d of the rotating drum 4.

In addition, since the liquid column 22 is formed to be inclined toward the inner surface of the rear side wall 31c as described above, the water 21 is spilled into the upper pipe line 17 through the connection port 31g by the liquid column 22. Therefore, excessive reduction of the water 21 in the water reservoir 31 can be prevented.

  The water injection device 34 is for replenishing the water 21 consumed by the generation of the mist 20 in the water reservoir 31. A water supply port 34 a provided below the water injection device 34 and a water supply port 31 f of the water reservoir 31 Are connected by a water injection hose 35, and an on-off valve (not shown) is provided at an appropriate position therebetween. In the first stage when the atomizing unit 30 is activated, the water injection device 34 opens the on-off valve and supplies water from the water supply port 34a of the water injection device 34 for a predetermined time sufficient for water to accumulate in the water reservoir 31. While supplying the water 21 through the hose 35, the excess water 21 is overflowed from the opening weir 31h of the rear side wall 31c, and the water 21 in the water reservoir 31 is kept at a constant full water level. The water injection operation at the initial stage of the start-up is for replenishing the water 21 in the water reservoir 31 that has been reduced by evaporation or the like during the suspension and always operating the atomization unit 30 in a state of an appropriate water level.

  The water level sensor 33 includes two conduction sensors 33a and 33b that are inserted into and fixed to a sensor mounting hole 31i that is opened in the rear side wall 31c. The water level sensor 33 is in the vertical direction on substantially the same vertical line in the reservoir area of the water reservoir 31. Are spaced apart from each other. In the first embodiment, the continuity sensor 33a located above is disposed at a height corresponding to the full water level of the water 21 stored in the water reservoir 31, and the continuity sensor 33b located below is filled with water. It is disposed at a height position corresponding to 1/2 of the position. Each of the continuity sensors 33a and 33b has a single electrode. When it is detected that a current flows between the continuity sensors 33a and 33b (electrodes), the water level in the water reservoir 31 is full. It is determined that the water level is in the state level (full water level), and thus the water level state in the water reservoir 31 can be detected.

  In the first embodiment, the water temperature sensor 33 is controlled so that the water temperature in the water reservoir 31 is maintained in an appropriate temperature range without using the water temperature sensor. That is, before operating the ultrasonic transducer 32 to generate the mist 20, the water 21 is supplied from the water supply port 31 f for the time required to replace the water 21 in the water reservoir 31, and the water reservoir 33 is supplied by the water level sensor 33. After it is detected that the water 21 stored in the water 31 is full, the ultrasonic vibrator 32 is operated to regenerate the mist 20 while replenishing the water 21 consumed by atomization from the water supply port 31f. Continue to let. By continuing to generate the mist 20 by operating the ultrasonic vibrator 32, the water temperature in the water reservoir 31 is going to rise, but since the water 21 is continuously supplied from the water supply port 31f, the water reservoir 31 The inside water temperature is maintained within a substantially constant appropriate temperature range only by changing within a temperature range of approximately 1 to 2 ° C.

  Then, after ½ time has elapsed with respect to the time for consuming the water 21 until the water level of the water 21 stored in the water reservoir 31 reaches zero level under the maximum mist generation condition of the atomization unit 30. When the water level of the water 21 stored in the water reservoir 31 is detected by the water level sensor 33 while the water 21 is replenished in the water reservoir 31 and the water level sensor 33 detects that the water level is full. Continues the ultrasonic oscillation as it is, and stops the ultrasonic oscillation when the water level sensor 33 does not detect that the water level is full.

  However, since the water 21 consumed by atomization is replenished in the water reservoir 31, water splashes on the conduction sensor 33a and the rear side wall 31c above the actual water level and adheres as water droplets. . When a current flows between the conduction sensor 33a to which water droplets adhere and the conduction sensor 33b below the conduction sensor 33a or water droplets attached to the rear side wall 31c, It is erroneously detected that the water level of the stored water 21 is higher than the arrangement position of the conduction sensor 33a located above. That is, it is erroneously detected that the water level is higher than the actual water level even though it is not actually in the full water level.

  Therefore, the continuity sensor 33a, 33b protrudes inward from the rear side wall 31c above the continuity sensor 33a disposed above, that is, above the sensor mounting hole 31i to which the continuity sensor 33a is mounted. A flange 31j covering the upper side of 33a is provided. In the first embodiment, not only the continuity sensor 33a disposed above, but also the continuity sensor 33b disposed below is provided with a collar 31j covering the continuity sensor 33b. The flange 31j covering the top of the continuity sensors 33a and 33b is disposed with an inclination that is displaced upward as it protrudes inward from the rear side wall 31c.

  Accordingly, it is possible to prevent the water level of the water 21 stored in the water reservoir 31 from being erroneously detected due to water droplets adhering to the continuity sensor 33a disposed above. Further, if the continuity sensor 33b disposed below is also provided with a gutter 31j that covers the continuity sensor 33b, water droplets are prevented from adhering to the continuity sensors 33a and 33b. Even if water drops adhere to the ridge 31j covering the continuity sensor 33a or the continuity sensor 33a and drop down, the ridge 31j covering the continuity sensor 33b is prevented from flowing down to the continuity sensor 33b. Therefore, it is possible to more effectively prevent the water level state of the water 21 stored in the water reservoir 31 from being erroneously detected without causing a current to flow between the continuity sensors 33a and 33b.

  In addition, even when lint such as lint generated from laundry such as clothes remains attached between the continuity sensors 33a and 33b, a current flows between the continuity sensors 33a and 33b. It is more effective to prevent the lint from adhering to the continuity sensors 33a and 33b and to erroneously detect the water level state of the water 21 stored in the water reservoir 31 by the eaves 31j provided above 33b. Can be prevented.

  Further, since the ridge 31j covering the upper side of the continuity sensors 33a and 33b is disposed on the rear side wall 31c with an inclination angle that is displaced upward as it goes inward, water droplets adhering to the ridge 31j pass through the ridge 31j. Therefore, the water level of the water 21 stored in the water reservoir 31 is more reliably prevented from being erroneously detected without flowing to the rear side wall 31c and secondarily adhering to the conduction sensors 33a and 33b. can do.

  Further, in the first embodiment, the water guide plate that guides the water supplied from the water supply port 31f to a position away from the water supply port 31f above the continuity sensors 33a and 33b and below the water supply port 31f. 31k is provided. The water intake plate 31k extends in a substantially horizontal direction from the water supply port forming side wall 31d provided with the water supply port 31f to the vicinity of the water supply port facing side wall 31e facing the water supply port forming side wall 31d. A gap 31l is formed between the water supply port facing side wall 31e and the water 21 supplied from the water supply port 31f flowing along the water supply port facing side wall 31e.

  Thereby, the water 21 supplied from the water supply port 31f flows down along the water supply port opposing side wall 31e through the gap 31l, and thus the water 21 flowing down the water supply port opposing side wall 31e is applied to the conduction sensors 33a and 33b. This is avoided by the eaves 31j covering the continuity sensors 33a and 33b, and is prevented from adhering to the continuity sensors 33a and 33b as water droplets. Thereby, it can prevent more reliably that the water level state of the water 21 stored in the water reservoir container 31 is erroneously detected.

In addition, water-inducing ribs 31m that connect the lower surface of the water-inducing plate 31k and the upper surface of the flange 31j provided above the conduction sensor 33a in a substantially vertical direction are provided so as to protrude inward from the rear side wall 31c. . Thereby, the direction of the flow of the water 21 supplied from the water supply port 31f and flowing down along the water supply port facing side wall 31e is regulated by the water intake rib 31k, and the continuity sensor 33a, Therefore, it is more effectively prevented from adhering to the continuity sensors 33a and 33b as water droplets. Thereby, it can prevent more reliably that the water level state of the water 21 stored in the water reservoir 31 is erroneously detected.

  Thus, by preventing the water level state of the water 21 stored in the water reservoir 31 from being erroneously detected, the water stored in the water reservoir 31 based on the accurately detected water level state. The water level of 21 can be maintained within an appropriate range, and the ultrasonic transducer 32 can be prevented from being deteriorated or broken. In addition, by stabilizing the water level in the water reservoir 31 and maintaining the water temperature in an appropriate temperature range, it is possible to maintain an appropriate amount of mist generation and effectively wet the clothing surface to an appropriate drying rate. And an excellent wrinkle reduction effect can be exhibited.

  Here, in order to fill the mist 20 in every corner of the rotating drum 4, the floatability of the mist 20 is important. That is, in order to ensure sufficient floating properties, it is desirable to use mist 20 having a particle size of less than 10 μm. When the particle diameter of the mist 20 is 10 μm or more, the efficiency is low in order to easily fall due to the weight of the mist 20 itself and to fill the rotary drum 4. However, the mist 20 having a particle size of 10 μm or more is called wet mist and has a characteristic of having high wettability. That is, wet mist having a particle size of 10 μm or more is likely to condense and adhere to the pipeline until it reaches the rotary drum 4 by colliding with a pipeline in the middle of introduction into the rotary drum 4. The amount will decrease. Further, wet mists having a particle size of 10 μm or more are bonded to each other to form a mist 20 having a larger particle size, and the above-described phenomenon of adhesion to the pipe line tends to become remarkable. However, in the first embodiment, the connection port 31g is positioned in the vicinity of the upper portion of the air guide port 18, and the movement path is set as short as possible, so that the reduction of wet mist can be suppressed to a very small amount.

  On the other hand, the mist 20 having a particle size of less than 10 μm is called dry mist and has high floatability, small particle size, high surface tension, and low wettability. Without adhering, it is possible to efficiently reach the inside of the rotating drum 4, and the inside of the rotating drum 4 can be filled with the mist 20 having a particle diameter of less than 10 μm. However, dry mist having a particle size of less than 10 μm has low wettability as it is, so that even if the rotary drum 4 is filled, the clothes are not sufficiently moistened. Therefore, in the first embodiment, the water temperature in the water reservoir 31 is maintained as high as possible, and the ultrasonic vibrator 32 is operated to generate the mist 20. When the mist 20 is generated, the amount of mist 20 generated (atomization amount) increases (the atomization efficiency is improved) and the temperature of the generated mist 20 increases as the water temperature in the water reservoir 31 increases. Therefore, when the high temperature mist 20 is filled in the rotating drum 4, even the dry mist having a particle diameter of less than 10 μm is applied to the surface of the clothing at a temperature lower than the temperature of the mist 20, the peripheral wall 4a of the rotating drum 4 By easily condensing and condensing, and rotating the rotating drum 4 and stirring the clothes, the entire clothes can be efficiently moistened.

  However, as described above, the ultrasonic transducer 32 has a use upper limit temperature, and the temperature of the water 21 in the water reservoir 31 rises. If the temperature exceeds this upper limit temperature, the mist 20 per unit time is increased. In addition to the amount of generation being changed, the ultrasonic transducer 32 may be deteriorated or destroyed. The ultrasonic vibrator 32 used in the first embodiment has a piezoelectric ceramic body made of lead zirconate titanate and the like, and an electrode solidified by applying molten silver to the lower surface and outer peripheral surface thereof, The surface is protected by being covered with a surface protective material made of stainless steel foil or titanium foil, and the piezoelectric ceramic body on which the electrodes are arranged and the surface protective material are bonded using an adhesive such as an epoxy resin. . Accordingly, by maintaining the water temperature in the water reservoir 31 within an appropriate temperature range (for example, 45 to 50 ° C.) that is 50 ° C. or less, which is the upper limit temperature of use of the ultrasonic transducer 32, Deterioration can be suppressed, and good high-temperature mist generation performance can be maintained over a long period of time.

  In the drum-type washing / drying machine 1 using the atomizing unit 30 described above, an operation when executing a “wrinkle spreading course” for the purpose of extending and reducing the wrinkles of clothing will be described below.

  The water temperature in the water reservoir 31 is maintained as high as possible (predetermined temperature) within a range not exceeding the upper limit temperature of use of the ultrasonic vibrator 32, for example, 50 ° C., and is disposed on the bottom wall 31a of the water reservoir 31. The ultrasonic vibrator 32 is operated to generate a high-temperature mist 20 and is introduced into the rotating drum 4 of the drum type washer / dryer 1 through the circulation air passage 9. Here, it is possible to arrange a heating means in the water reservoir 31 and raise the water temperature in the water reservoir 31 by this heating means, but in the first embodiment, in the water reservoir 31 The water temperature in the water reservoir 31 is raised by oscillating the ultrasonic vibrator 32 while reducing the water storage capacity. That is, the high-temperature mist 20 can be generated at a low cost with a simple configuration.

  The mist 20 is generated at such a high water temperature, introduced into the rotating drum 4, and as described above, the wet mist and the dry mist are filled in every corner of the rotating drum 4, and the entire inside of the rotating drum is filled. By uniformly increasing the humidity and rotating the rotary drum 4 at a low rotational speed, moisture can be uniformly moistened by condensing moisture on any surface portion of the clothes.

  Then, after the entire clothing is in a wet state in this way, the rotary drum 4 and the blower fan 12 are rotationally driven at a high rotational speed, and the evaporator 10 and the condenser 11 are activated to perform a drying operation. The wrinkles attached to the clothes are released by moisture, and by stirring the clothes in such a state, the wrinkles can be extended and reduced.

  In the atomization unit 30 in the first embodiment, an opening weir 31d is provided on the side wall 31b, and water 21 is injected from the water injection device 33 into the water reservoir container 31 at the initial stage of starting the atomization unit 30. The operation of overflowing from the opening weir 31d is controlled automatically. The opening weir 31d is provided at a height position of at least 20 mm or more from the bottom wall 31a of the water reservoir container 31. By operating the ultrasonic vibrator 32 in a state where the water level is excessively lowered, the ultrasonic vibrator 32 is prevented from being easily deteriorated.

Further, in the first embodiment, when the mist 20 is introduced into the rotating drum 4, the blower fan 12 may be rotated at a low rotation speed. Blowing amount of air flow in the circulating air passage within 9 at this time as is, 0.05m ³ /min~1.00m ³ / min is desirable. When the air flow rate is less than 0.05 m ³ / min, when the wet mist is introduced into the rotating drum 4, the clothes in the rotating drum 4 become an obstacle and can sufficiently enter the rotating drum 4. However, a part of the water may flow down between the water tank 3 and the rotating drum 4, and the amount of dry mist introduced into the rotating drum 4 is reduced, so that the above-described effects cannot be obtained sufficiently. It will be. Further, when the air flow rate in the circulation air flow path 9 exceeds 1.00 m ³ / min, the wet mist collides with the tube wall of the dry air air flow line 14 (upper line 17) and the wet mist The abundance ratio will be reduced.

  Since the water 21 stored in the atomization unit 30 according to the first embodiment and the flow of the generated mist 20 have been described in detail above, the drum-type washing / drying machine 1 according to the first embodiment of the present invention will be described next. The relationship between the circulation air flow path 9 (upper pipe line 17) and the joining structure in the atomization unit 30 will be supplementarily described based on FIG. FIG. 10 is a rear cross-sectional view for explaining the flow of water and mist around the circulation blower path and the atomization unit of the drum type washer / dryer according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention.

  As described above, the water 21 stored in the atomization unit 30 is introduced from the water supply port 31f provided above the water reservoir 31 and flows on the water intake plate 31k toward the water supply port opposing side wall 31e. The water flows down from the gap 31l formed between the water intake plate 31k and the water supply inlet facing side wall 31e to the water storage area along the water supply inlet facing side wall 31e and is stored. Further, the mist 20 is generated in the space in the water reservoir 31 by the oscillation of the ultrasonic vibrator 31 and is introduced into the circulating air passage 9 through the connection port 31 g with the upper pipe line 17. In FIG. 10, the flow of the water 21 and the mist 20 in the water reservoir 31 is indicated by a black arrow, and the inner surface of the portion indicated by the region A is a region where the water 21 flows, and the portion indicated by the region B The inner surface is a region where water 21 is stored, and the inner surface of the portion indicated by region C and the outer surface of the portion indicated by region B on the side of circulating air flow path 9 are regions where mist 20 adheres and is wetted by water 21. is there.

  Usually, the upper pipe line 17 and the atomization unit 30 of the circulation air passage 9 are produced by resin molding of a molded product on the front side and a molded product on the back side, respectively, and both molded products are welded to each other and joined. The finished product. In the atomization unit 30 according to the first embodiment, the water 21 that flows in the water reservoir 31 and the stored water 21 overflows partly from the opening weir 31h and flows to the upper pipeline 17 side. In addition, the flow of the mist 20 discharged to the upper pipe line 17 is also located just below the connection port 31g on the flow of dry air. Since it is sent to the water tank 3 from the air guide port 18 to be performed, it remains in a very limited range (region).

  That is, the range indicated by the areas A to C in FIG. 10 is limited to the limited range according to the atomization unit 30 according to the first embodiment. What is necessary is just to perform the welding part of the molded article in manufacturing to the range limited very much. Therefore, the manufacturing cost of the atomizing unit 30 according to the first embodiment and the drum type washing / drying machine 1 using the atomizing unit 30 can be kept low.

(Embodiment 2)
Next, the structure of the atomization unit 30A according to the second embodiment will be described in detail based on FIG. FIG. 11 is a front cross-sectional view for explaining the structure of an atomization unit of a drum-type washing / drying machine according to Embodiment 2 of the present invention.

  In the first embodiment described above, the two continuity sensors 33a and 33b constituting the water level sensor 33 are arranged apart from each other in the vertical direction on substantially the same vertical line in the water storage area of the water reservoir 31. In the second embodiment, the two conduction sensors 33a and 33b arranged in the vertical direction are arranged so as to be displaced from each other in the horizontal direction. Since the other points are the same as the contents described in the first embodiment, the description is omitted here. Moreover, since the function of each component is also the same, description will be given with the same reference numerals.

  In the atomization unit 30A configured in this way, the two conduction sensors 33a and 33b arranged in the vertical direction are arranged with their positions shifted in the horizontal direction, so that the adjacent conduction sensors 33a and 33b are mutually connected. The distance between them becomes longer, and it is more effectively prevented that the water level state of the water 21 stored in the water reservoir 31 is erroneously detected due to water droplets or the like adhering to the conduction sensors 33a and 33b and the rear side wall 31c. be able to.

Further, the continuity sensor 33a disposed on the upper side is disposed so as to be shifted away from the lower position of the gap 31l opened between the water intake plate 31k and the water supply facing wall 31e. It is more effectively avoided that the water supplied from 31f and flowing down along the water supply inlet facing side wall 31e adheres as water droplets to the conduction sensor 33a located at a position away from the lower position of the gap 31l. . Accordingly, it is possible to more reliably prevent the water level state of the water 21 stored in the water reservoir 31 from being erroneously detected, and to appropriately set the water level in the water reservoir 31 based on the accurately detected water level state. It is possible to maintain the range, prevent deterioration and destruction of the ultrasonic vibrator 32, and also effectively wet the clothing surface to an appropriate drying rate, and exhibit an excellent wrinkle reduction effect be able to.

(Embodiment 3)
Next, the structure of the atomization unit 30B according to the third embodiment will be described in detail based on FIG. FIG. 12 is a side cross-sectional view for explaining the structure of the atomizing unit of the drum-type washing / drying machine according to Embodiment 3 of the present invention.

  In the first embodiment described above, the two continuity sensors 33a and 33b constituting the water level sensor 33 are arranged apart from each other in the vertical direction on substantially the same vertical line in the water storage area of the water reservoir 31. In the third embodiment, the continuity sensor 33a disposed on the upper side is disposed so as to protrude inward of the rear side wall 31c with respect to the continuity sensor 33b disposed on the lower side. Since the other points are the same as the contents described in the first embodiment, the description is omitted here. Moreover, since the function of each component is also the same, description will be given with the same reference numerals.

  In Embodiment 1 described above, the lower portion of the rear side wall 31c is formed so as to incline forward as it goes downward, and the flange 31j covering the upper side of the conduction sensors 33a and 33b protrudes inward from the rear side wall 31c. Accordingly, in the second embodiment, the lower portion of the rear side wall 31c is formed in a substantially vertical direction, and the flange 31j covering the upper side of the conduction sensors 33a and 33b is formed in the second embodiment. The continuity sensor 33a that is formed so as to protrude substantially in the horizontal direction and thus is arranged so as to protrude above the continuity sensor 33b that is provided below protrudes inward of the rear side wall 31c. .

  In the atomizing unit 30B configured as described above, when a water droplet attached to the conduction sensor 33a disposed above falls downward, it adheres secondarily to the conduction sensor 33b disposed below. Will be suppressed. Thereby, it is possible to more effectively prevent the water level state of the water 21 stored in the water reservoir container 31 from being erroneously detected, and the water level in the water reservoir container 31 is adjusted based on the accurately detected water level state. It is possible to maintain the ultrasonic transducer 32 within an appropriate range, prevent deterioration and destruction of the ultrasonic transducer 32, and effectively moisten the clothing surface to an appropriate drying rate, thereby producing an excellent wrinkle reduction effect. Can be made.

(Embodiment 4)
Then, the structure of the atomization unit 30C which concerns on this Embodiment 4 is demonstrated in detail based on FIG. FIG. 13 is a side cross-sectional view for explaining the structure of an atomization unit of a drum type washing / drying machine according to Embodiment 4 of the present invention.

  In the first embodiment, the eaves 31j provided above the two continuity sensors 33a and 33b constituting the water level sensor 33 are separated in the vertical direction on substantially the same vertical line in the reservoir area of the water reservoir 31. However, in the fourth embodiment, the flange 31j provided above the conduction sensor 33a disposed above is disposed above the conduction sensor 33b disposed below. It is arranged to protrude inward of the rear side wall from 31j. Since the other points are the same as the contents described in the first embodiment, the description is omitted here. Moreover, since the function of each component is also the same, description will be given with the same reference numerals.

In the atomization unit 30C configured in this manner, water droplets are prevented from adhering to the conduction sensor 33a disposed above, and when the water droplets adhering to the conduction sensor 33a fall downward, The secondary adhesion to the continuity sensor 33b disposed on the surface is suppressed. Thereby, it is possible to more effectively prevent the water level state of the water 21 stored in the water reservoir container 31 from being erroneously detected, and the water level in the water reservoir container 31 is adjusted based on the accurately detected water level state. It is possible to maintain the ultrasonic transducer 32 within an appropriate range, prevent deterioration and destruction of the ultrasonic transducer 32, and effectively moisten the clothing surface to an appropriate drying rate, thereby producing an excellent wrinkle reduction effect. Can be made.

(Embodiment 5)
Finally, the structure of the atomization unit 30E according to the fifth embodiment will be described in detail based on FIG. FIG. 14 is a side cross-sectional view for explaining the structure of the atomization unit of the drum type washing and drying machine according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention.

  In the fifth embodiment, a partition plate 31n that protrudes inward from the rear side wall 31c and extends in a substantially horizontal direction is provided between the conduction sensors 33a and 33b arranged in the vertical direction. Since the other points are the same as the contents described in the first embodiment, the description is omitted here. Moreover, since the function of each component is also the same, description will be given with the same reference numerals.

  In the atomizing unit 30D configured as described above, when a water droplet attached to the conduction sensor 33a disposed above falls down, the conduction sensor 33b disposed below is blocked by the partition plate 31n. Secondary adhesion to the surface is suppressed. Thereby, it is possible to more effectively prevent the water level state of the water 21 stored in the water reservoir container 31 from being erroneously detected, and the water level in the water reservoir container 31 is adjusted based on the accurately detected water level state. It is possible to maintain the ultrasonic transducer 32 within an appropriate range, prevent deterioration and destruction of the ultrasonic transducer 32, and effectively moisten the clothing surface to an appropriate drying rate, thereby producing an excellent wrinkle reduction effect. Can be made.

  In said Embodiment 1-5, although the water level sensor 33 is comprised by two conduction | electrical_connection sensors 33a and 33b arrange | positioned with respect to the back side wall 31c at an up-down direction, it is three or more conduction | electrical_connection sensors. It may be configured. In addition, the hook 31j that covers the top of the two continuity sensors 33a and 33b is provided above the two continuity sensors 33a and 33b, but is disposed above the two continuity sensors 33a and 33b. A hook 31j that covers the upper side of the continuity sensor 33a may be provided only above the continuity sensor 33a. In the case of three or more continuity sensors, at least the uppermost of these continuity sensors is arranged. What is necessary is just to provide the collar 31j which covers the upper direction of this continuity sensor above the continuity sensor provided.

  When the water level sensor 33 is composed of three or more continuity sensors, the continuity sensor located at the uppermost position is disposed at a position where the full water level is detected, as with the continuity sensor 33a in the above embodiment, and other continuity sensors. The sensor may be appropriately disposed at a position suitable for detecting the water level in the water reservoir 31. By detecting the current flowing between the continuity sensors by three or more continuity sensors arranged in this way, the water level in the water reservoir 31 can be detected more accurately. Thus, even if the water level sensor is composed of three or more continuity sensors, the above-described effects of the present invention can be obtained.

  In addition, when comprised with three or more conduction | electrical_connection sensors, if the water invitation board 31k is provided above the conduction | electrical_connection sensor arrange | positioned uppermost among these conduction | electrical_connection sensors, and below the water supply port 31f, The water attracting rib 31m may be provided so as to connect the lower surface of the water attracting plate 31k and the upper surface of the flange 31j provided above the uppermost conduction sensor in a substantially vertical direction. .

  In addition, in said Embodiment 1-5, although the example which used water 21 as a mist generation source in the atomization unit 30 was demonstrated, according to a use, Ag ion electrolyte solution, detergent liquid, deodorant liquid, A sterilizing solution or the like may be used, and an effect corresponding to each solution (mist generation source) can be obtained.

  In the first to fifth embodiments described above, taking the drum-type washing / drying machine 1 in which the rotating drum 4 is inclined as an example, the atomization units 30 to 30D according to the present invention and the technology of the drum-type washing / drying machine 1 to which the atomizing unit 30-30D is applied. The atomizing unit 30 according to the present invention can be applied to a clothes dryer for the purpose of reducing wrinkles of clothes and the like, and a rotating drum is arranged in a horizontal direction ( The present invention can also be applied to a washing machine in which the axis of the rotating drum is arranged in the vertical direction. Further, by utilizing the nature of the high temperature mist 20 that easily condenses, the atomization units 30 to 30D of the present invention and the technical contents thereof are classified into an ultrasonic cleaning device, a deodorizing device, a sterilizing / disinfecting device, a painting / coating device, It can also be applied to air conditioners and dishwashers. In addition, in the drum-type washing / drying machine 1 described in the first to fifth embodiments, water is used as the liquid to be atomized, but the atomizing units 30 to 30D of the present invention are used for different purposes. When applied to an apparatus, a liquid suitable for the application can be used.

It is side surface sectional drawing for demonstrating the structure of the drum type washing-drying machine which concerns on Embodiment 1 of this invention. It is the perspective view seen from the housing | casing back side for demonstrating arrangement | positioning of the circulation ventilation path | route of the drum-type washing dryer which concerns on Embodiment 1 of this invention, and an atomization unit. It is the partially cutaway sectional view seen from the case back side for explaining the flow of the dry air and mist in the circulation ventilation path and the atomization unit of the drum type washing and drying machine concerning Embodiment 1 of the present invention. It is the partially cutaway sectional view seen from the case back side for explaining the connection structure of the circulation ventilation path and the atomization unit of the drum type washing and drying machine concerning Embodiment 1 of the present invention. It is side surface sectional drawing for demonstrating the connection structure of the atomization unit and water tank of the drum type washing-drying machine which concerns on Embodiment 1 of this invention. It is an expanded side sectional view for demonstrating the connection structure of the atomization unit and water tank of the drum type washing / drying machine which concerns on Embodiment 1 of this invention. It is side surface sectional drawing for demonstrating the structure of the atomization unit of the drum type washing-drying machine which concerns on Embodiment 1 of this invention. It is a rear surface sectional view for demonstrating the structure of the atomization unit of the drum type washing-drying machine which concerns on Embodiment 1 of this invention. It is front sectional drawing for demonstrating the structure of the atomization unit of the drum type washing-drying machine which concerns on Embodiment 1 of this invention. It is a back surface sectional view for demonstrating the flow of the water and mist around the circulation ventilation path | route of the drum type washing dryer which concerns on Embodiment 1 of this invention, and an atomization unit. It is front sectional drawing for demonstrating the structure of the atomization unit of the drum type washing-drying machine which concerns on Embodiment 2 of this invention. It is side surface sectional drawing for demonstrating the structure of the atomization unit of the drum type washing-drying machine which concerns on Embodiment 3 of this invention. It is side surface sectional drawing for demonstrating the structure of the atomization unit of the drum type washing-drying machine which concerns on Embodiment 4 of this invention. It is side surface sectional drawing for demonstrating the structure of the atomization unit of the drum type washing-drying machine which concerns on Embodiment 5 of this invention. (A) is sectional drawing for demonstrating the structure of the washing-drying machine provided with the conventional atomization unit, (b) is sectional drawing for demonstrating the structure of the atomization unit.

Explanation of symbols

1 Drum-type washing and drying machine (washing machine)
2 Washer / dryer housing 3 Water tank 4 Rotating drum (Washing and dewatering tank)
20 Mist 21 Water (liquid)
30 Atomization unit 31 Water reservoir (Atomization chamber)
31a Bottom wall 31b Front side wall 31c Rear side wall (Atomization chamber side wall)
31 d Water supply port forming side wall 31 e Water supply port opposing side wall 31 f Water supply port 31 g Connection port 31 h Opening weir 31 i Sensor mounting hole 31 j 庇 31 k Water guide plate 31 l Water guide plate 31 l Water guide rib 31 n Partition plate 32 Ultrasonic transducer 33 Water level sensors 33 a and 33 b Sensor 34 Water injection device 35 Water injection hose

Claims (9)

A rotating drum that is formed with a large number of through-holes and accommodates the laundry and is driven to rotate is provided in the water tank. Drum-type laundry comprising a spray unit that performs the steps and generates mist in the rotating drum in a separate step separate from the above steps or in the drying step so as to widen and deodorize the wrinkles of the laundry In the dryer
The atomization unit includes an atomization chamber for storing water as a mist generation source supplied from a water supply port provided at an upper position, and water stored in the atomization chamber below the atomization chamber. In contrast, an ultrasonic transducer that applies ultrasonic vibration to atomize, and a water level sensor that is provided on the side wall of the atomization chamber and detects the water level stored in the atomization chamber,
The water level sensor is composed of at least two continuity sensors arranged in the vertical direction of the side wall of the atomization chamber, and at least above the continuity sensor disposed above the continuity sensor. A drum-type washing and drying machine, characterized in that an overhang is provided.   2. The drum type washing and drying machine according to claim 1, wherein the ridge covering the continuity sensor is disposed with an inclination that is displaced upward as it protrudes inward from the side wall of the atomization chamber.   The drum type washing / drying machine according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the continuity sensors arranged in the vertical direction are arranged so as to be shifted from each other in the horizontal direction.   The continuity sensor disposed on the uppermost side is disposed so as to protrude inward of the side wall of the atomization chamber from the continuity sensor disposed on the lower side. A drum type washing and drying machine according to claim 1.   The soot provided above the uppermost conduction sensor is disposed so as to protrude inward of the side wall of the atomization chamber from the soot provided above the conduction sensor provided below. The drum-type washing and drying machine according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein   The partition plate which protrudes inwardly from the atomization chamber side wall and extends in a substantially horizontal direction is provided between the conduction sensors arranged in the vertical direction. The drum-type washing and drying machine as described. A water guide plate that guides water supplied from the water supply port to a position away from the water supply port, at least above the continuity sensor disposed at the uppermost position of the continuity sensor and below the water supply port. Is provided,
The water intake plate extends in a substantially horizontal direction from a water supply port forming side wall where the water supply port is provided to a water supply port opposing side wall facing the water supply port forming side wall, and the water intake plate and the water supply port opposing side wall A drum-type washer / dryer according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein a gap is formed between the water supply port to allow water supplied from the water supply port to flow along the side wall facing the water supply port. .   Water-inducing ribs that connect the bottom surface of the water-inducing plate and the top surface of the ridge provided above the uppermost conduction sensor in a substantially vertical direction are inward from the side wall of the atomization chamber. The drum-type washing / drying machine according to claim 7, wherein the drum-type washing / drying machine is provided so as to protrude.   The uppermost conduction sensor is arranged to be shifted in a direction away from a lower position of a gap opened between the water intake plate and the side wall facing the water supply port. Item 9. The drum-type washing and drying machine according to Item 7 or 8.

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