JP2011103957A - Washing machine - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To improve the energy saving capability by generating electricity from vibration caused by the rotation of a rotary drum. <P>SOLUTION: The washing machine includes: a washing machine casing 10; the rotary drum 12 for storing the laundry; a receiving barrel 11 for rotatably housing the rotary drum 12; a motor 13 fixed to the receiving barrel 11 for rotationally driving the rotary drum 12; a damper mechanism (a support mechanism) 20 for elastically supporting the receiving barrel 11 to the washing machine casing 10; and a control means 24 for controlling/driving the motor 13. A piezoelectric element (a vibration power generation means) 27 for generating power using the vibration and a vibration electricity accumulation means 28 for accumulating the power generated by the piezoelectric element 27 are disposed between the receiving barrel 11 and the damper mechanism 20, so that the vibration of the receiving barrel can be efficiently converted into the electric power to be used for the motion of the washing machine, and the power consumption can be reduced. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2011,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to a motor that generates a rotational driving force for rotating a washing tub to perform washing, rinsing, dehydration and drying, and a power generation and storage device that converts vibration due to unbalance of the laundry into electric energy and stores the electric energy. The present invention relates to a washing machine having

  In general, a washing machine is roughly classified into a pulsator type that uses a flowing water stream to wash laundry and a drum type that uses the falling of the laundry to wash (tap).

  In the pulsator type, the laundry is put in and out from above, and the direction of the washing tub is vertical and is called the vertical type. On the other hand, the drum type is called a horizontal type in which the direction of the washing tub is horizontal. In general, the dryer is also of a horizontal type.

  On the other hand, in the recent drum type washing machine, from the viewpoint of universal design, the washing tub which is a drum is arranged at the bottom, the washing performance is improved by tapping and the ease of taking out the laundry, and the vertical type In comparison, the drying time is shortened.

  In addition, there are drum-type drums that tend to generate vibration noise due to unbalanced laundry in the dehydration process, and are designed to reduce vibration with a damper or the like (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

  In addition, as a washing machine, a power generation device that generates power by the vibration has been proposed. An electrostatic induction type power generation device applies electric charge to a variable capacitance electrode, causes the Coulomb attractive force to act between the counter electrodes by the electric charge, and converts the vibration energy generated by the vibration of the vibrator against this attractive force into electrical energy. There is something that is generating electricity by converting to. A capacitance-type power generation device composed of a plurality of electrodes and an elastic body and generating power by vibration is proposed, and the vibration of the washing tub is detected by a vibration sensor attached to the upper portion of the washing tub, and the detection signal Based on the above, the rotational speed control of the motor is performed by the dehydration process control unit (see, for example, Patent Document 2).

  Furthermore, as a washing machine, a power generation device that generates power by vibration based on another principle has been proposed. A part of the elastic body is connected to the vibration source, a weight having a predetermined mass is connected to the other end of the elastic body, and an electromagnetic circuit or a piezoelectric element is formed. The resonance vibration of the weight is caused by electromagnetic induction or piezoelectric effect. Some generate electric power (see, for example, Patent Document 3).

JP 2006-136602 A JP 2008-86190 A JP 2000-197373 A

  However, in the configuration of Patent Document 1, a contrivance is made to make the laundry input port lower by making the drum horizontal or slanted. However, since the drum is licked, the laundry tends to be unbalanced during dehydration, and the laundry tub vibrates greatly.

In the configurations of Patent Documents 2 and 3, a power generation device that generates power by vibration due to unbalance has been proposed. However, the operation of the washing machine is not hindered, and the vibration of the washing machine is effectively converted to vibration for power generation. There was a problem that there was no means to use.

  The present invention solves the above-mentioned conventional problems, and provides a configuration for efficiently converting the vibration of a receiving cylinder including a washing tub or the vibration of a main body into electric power by a power generation device capable of generating electric power by a piezoelectric effect or the like. The purpose is to provide an energy-saving washing machine that effectively uses vibration during dehydration for energy saving.

  In order to solve the above-described conventional problems, a washing machine of the present invention includes a washing machine casing, a rotating drum that accommodates laundry, a receiving cylinder that rotatably accommodates the rotating drum, and a fixing to the receiving cylinder. And a motor that rotationally drives the rotating drum, a support mechanism that elastically supports the receiving cylinder with respect to the washing machine casing, and a control unit that controls and drives the motor, the receiving cylinder and the supporting mechanism. Between the two, a vibration power generation means for generating power using vibration and a vibration power storage means for storing the power generated by the vibration power generation means are provided.

  In the washing machine of the present invention, the vibration generating means disposed between the receiving cylinder and the support mechanism efficiently converts the receiving cylinder vibration into electric power and can be used for the operation of the washing machine, thereby reducing power consumption. Can be realized.

The block diagram of the control apparatus of the washing machine in the 1st Embodiment of this invention Damper mechanism assembly drawing of the washing machine The block diagram of the control apparatus of the washing machine in the 2nd Embodiment of this invention The block diagram of the control apparatus of the washing machine in the 3rd Embodiment of this invention The block diagram of the control apparatus of the washing machine in the 4th Embodiment of this invention The block diagram of the control apparatus of the washing machine in the 5th Embodiment of this invention The block diagram of the control apparatus of the washing machine in the 6th Embodiment of this invention The block diagram of the control apparatus of the washing machine in the 7th Embodiment of this invention The block diagram of the control apparatus of the washing machine in the 8th Embodiment of this invention The block diagram of the control apparatus of the washing machine in the 9th Embodiment of this invention The block diagram of the control apparatus of the washing machine in the 10th Embodiment of this invention

  A first invention includes a washing machine casing, a rotating drum that stores laundry, a receiving cylinder that rotatably stores the rotating drum, a motor that is fixed to the receiving cylinder and that rotationally drives the rotating drum, A support mechanism that elastically supports the receiving cylinder with respect to the washing machine casing; and a control unit that controls and drives the motor, and vibration is used between the receiving cylinder and the support mechanism. By providing a vibration power generation means for generating power and a vibration power storage means for storing the power generated by the vibration power generation means, a receiving cylinder vibration can be efficiently converted into electric power, and washing can be performed. Since it can be used for machine operation control, energy saving performance of the washing machine can be improved.

  In the second invention, in particular, the support mechanism of the first invention is a damper mechanism for supporting the receiving cylinder from below, and the vibration power generation means is disposed at a portion where the damper mechanism and the receiving cylinder are connected. By using the washing machine characterized by the above, it becomes possible to efficiently convert the cylinder vibration due to the unbalance of the laundry into electric power, and the energy saving performance of the washing machine can be improved.

In the third invention, in particular, the support mechanism of the first invention is a support spring for supporting the receiving cylinder from above, and the vibration power generation means is disposed at a portion where the support spring and the receiving cylinder are connected. By using the washing machine characterized by the above, it becomes possible to efficiently convert the cylinder vibration due to the unbalance of the laundry into electric power, and the energy saving performance of the washing machine can be improved.

  4th invention is a washing machine housing | casing, the rotating drum which accommodates the laundry, the receiving cylinder which accommodates the said rotating drum rotatably, the motor which is fixed to the said receiving cylinder and rotationally drives the said rotating drum, A support mechanism that elastically supports the receiving cylinder with respect to the washing machine casing; and a control unit that controls and drives the motor, and vibration is used between the washing machine casing and the support mechanism. By providing a washing machine characterized by providing a vibration power generation means for generating power and providing a vibration power storage means for storing the power generated by the vibration power generation means, it is possible to efficiently convert the receiving barrel vibration into electric power, Since it can be used for operation control of the washing machine, the energy saving performance of the washing machine can be improved.

  According to a fifth aspect of the invention, in particular, the support mechanism of the fourth aspect of the invention is a damper mechanism that supports the receiving tube from below, and the vibration power generation means is disposed at a portion where the damper mechanism and the washing machine casing are connected to each other. By using the washing machine characterized by the above, it becomes possible to efficiently convert the receiving tube vibration due to the unbalance of the laundry into electric power, and the energy saving performance of the washing machine can be improved.

  According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, in particular, the support mechanism according to the fourth aspect of the present invention is a support spring for supporting the receiving tube from above, and the vibration power generation means is disposed at a portion where the support spring and the washing machine casing are connected. By using the washing machine characterized by the above, it becomes possible to efficiently convert the receiving tube vibration due to the unbalance of the laundry into electric power, and the energy saving performance of the washing machine can be improved.

  The seventh invention comprises a washing machine casing, a rotating drum for storing laundry, a receiving cylinder for rotatably storing the rotating drum, a motor fixed to the receiving cylinder and for rotationally driving the rotating drum, A support mechanism that elastically supports the receiving tube with respect to the washing machine casing and a control unit that controls and drives the motor, and generates electric power between the washing machine casing and the floor using vibration. By providing a vibration power generation means and a vibration power storage means for storing electric power generated by the vibration power generation means, floor vibration by the washing machine can be efficiently converted into electric power, Since it can be used for machine operation control, energy saving performance of the washing machine can be improved.

  In the eighth aspect of the invention, in particular, the bottom of the washing machine casing of the seventh aspect is provided with a vibration isolation leg rubber for installation on the floor, and the arrangement vibration power generation means is provided in the vibration isolation leg rubber part. By making the washing machine characterized by the above, it becomes possible to efficiently convert the washing machine main body vibration and floor vibration due to the unbalance of the laundry into electric power, and the energy saving performance of the washing machine can be improved.

  A ninth invention includes a washing machine casing, a rotating drum for storing laundry, a receiving cylinder that rotatably stores the rotating drum, a motor that is fixed to the receiving cylinder and rotationally drives the rotating drum, A support mechanism that elastically supports the receiving tube with respect to the washing machine casing and a control unit that controls and drives the motor, and generates electric power on the inner surface of the washing machine casing using vibration. The washing machine is provided with a vibration power generation means and a vibration power storage means for storing the electric power generated by the vibration power generation means. Since the body vibration can be efficiently converted into electric power and can be used for operation control of the washing machine, the energy saving performance of the washing machine can be improved.

  In a tenth aspect of the invention, in particular, the control means according to any one of the first to ninth aspects is characterized in that the control means includes vibration power management means for managing the power generated and stored by the vibration power storage means by vibration. By adopting the washing machine, it is possible to switch the operation control of the washing machine between low vibration and low noise and low power consumption, and it is possible to improve the vibration noise performance and energy saving performance of the washing machine.

  In an eleventh aspect of the invention, in particular, in the tenth aspect of the invention, there is provided vibration detecting means for detecting vibration of the receiving cylinder, and the vibration power management means is vibration that shifts to retry processing according to the vibration value detected by the vibration detecting means. The washing machine is characterized by having a vibration threshold adjustment means that adjusts the threshold value to switch between the power generation mode and the silent mode, thereby controlling the operation of the washing machine with low vibration and low noise and power consumption. It becomes possible to switch with emphasis, and it is possible to improve the vibration noise performance and energy saving performance of the washing machine.

  According to a twelfth aspect of the invention, in particular, the vibration power management means of the tenth aspect of the invention is a washing machine characterized by having a power storage display means for displaying the amount of power stored in the vibration power storage means. It is possible to confirm the energy saving effect, and energy saving performance can be improved.

  In a thirteenth aspect of the invention, in particular, the vibration power management means of the tenth aspect of the invention switches the power supply so that when the amount of electricity stored in the vibration electricity storage means exceeds a predetermined value, the power is used for washing machine control. Since the washing machine having the power supply switching unit can be used for operation control of the washing machine, the energy saving performance of the washing machine can be improved.

  According to a fourteenth aspect of the invention, in particular, the vibration power storage means according to any one of the first to thirteenth aspects is a secondary battery, and has a configuration that can be removed and used for other devices; By doing so, it becomes possible to use the electric power generated by the washing machine vibration for other electronic devices, and the energy saving performance of the home appliance including the washing machine can be realized.

  In the fifteenth aspect of the invention, in particular, the vibration power generation means of any one of the first to fourteenth aspects of the invention can be reduced in size by using a washing machine characterized in that the power generation principle is a piezoelectric effect. Since the vibration of the washing machine can be efficiently used for operation control, the energy saving performance of the washing machine can be improved.

  In the sixteenth aspect of the invention, in particular, the vibration power generation means of any one of the first to fourteenth aspects of the invention can be reduced in size by being a washing machine characterized in that the principle of power generation is magnetic induction, Since the vibration of the washing machine can be efficiently used for operation control, the energy saving performance of the washing machine can be improved.

  In the seventeenth aspect of the invention, in particular, the vibration power generation means according to any one of the first to fourteenth aspects of the invention can be reduced in size by being a washing machine characterized in that the principle of power generation is a change in capacitance. In addition, since the vibration of the washing machine can be efficiently used for operation control, the energy saving performance of the washing machine can be improved.

  Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. Note that the present invention is not limited to the present embodiment.

(Embodiment 1)
FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a control device including a power generator for a washing machine according to the first embodiment of the present invention. In FIG. 1, a receiving cylinder 11 for storing washing water is supported in a washing machine housing 10 so as to be swingable. A rotating drum 12 serving as a washing tub is rotatably accommodated in the receiving cylinder 11, and a motor 13 constituted by a brushless motor that rotates the rotating drum 12 while controlling the speed on the rear surface of the receiving cylinder 11. Is attached. The front surface of the washing machine housing 10 is covered with a housing cover 14, and the housing cover 14 is provided with a laundry insertion port 15 for putting laundry into the rotary drum 12. The laundry is put into the rotary drum 12 through the article input port 15, the receiving tube opening 16 provided on the front surface of the receiving tube 11, and the rotating drum opening 17 provided on the front surface of the rotating drum 12. . The laundry input port 15 is covered with a lid 18 so as to be freely opened and closed. The laundry input port 15 of the housing cover 14 and the receiving tube opening 16 of the receiving tube 11 are connected in a watertight manner by a seal packing 19 formed of an elastic body so as to be connected without a gap.

  The receiving cylinder 11 is a damper composed of a spring element and a damper element for reducing vibration generated during washing, rinsing, and dehydration (when the motor 13 rotates) to reduce vibration transmission to the housing cover 14 and the floor. It is supported from below by a mechanism (support mechanism) 20. The upper end of the damper mechanism 20 is connected to the lower part of the receiving cylinder 11, and the lower end of the damper mechanism 20 is connected to the bottom of the washing machine casing 10. Further, one end of a support spring 21 is connected to the upper part and the rear part of the receiving cylinder 11, and the other end of the support spring 21 is connected to the upper part and the rear part of the washing machine housing 10 so that the attitude of the receiving cylinder 11 is maintained. I have to. An anti-vibration leg rubber 22 that reduces transmission of vibration to the floor is provided at the bottom of the washing machine casing 10. Further, an acceleration sensor (vibration detecting means) 23 for detecting the vibration state of the receiving cylinder 11 is attached to the upper part of the receiving cylinder 11, and the acceleration sensor 23 allows the receiving cylinder 11 to be washed, rinsed and dehydrated. Left-right vibration, front-rear vibration, vertical vibration, etc. are detected.

  The control means 24 controls a series of washing operations such as washing, rinsing and dehydration. The speed detection means 25 detects the rotational speed of the motor 13 from the signal of the Hall IC attached to the motor 13, and the speed detection. A control circuit (not shown) that calculates an error from the target rotational speed based on the rotational speed of the motor 13 that is an output of the means 25 and an inverter circuit that applies a drive current to the motor 13 (not shown). Control drive means 26 (not shown).

  Further, an elastic rubber (explained in FIG. 2) and a piezoelectric element (vibration power generation means) 27 are provided between the receiving cylinder 11 and the damper mechanism 20, which is a connection portion between the receiving cylinder 11 and the damper mechanism 20. It has been.

  Here, the elastic rubber including the piezoelectric element and the damper mechanism 20 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 2 is an assembly drawing of the washing machine including a detailed view of the elastic rubber including the piezoelectric element and the damper mechanism 20. In FIG. 2, an oil damper 200 that absorbs vibration of the receiving cylinder 11 and a suspension 201 that supports the receiving cylinder 11 from below are disposed substantially coaxially. An attachment plate 202 for attaching the upper end portion of the damper mechanism 20 is attached to the lower portion of the receiving cylinder 11, and a through hole 202 a is formed in the attachment plate 202 and provided at the upper end of the damper mechanism 20. The male screw portion 20a passes through the through hole 202a, and elastic rubber 203 is provided on the upper and lower sides of the male screw portion 20a with the mounting plate 202 interposed therebetween, and the female screw 20b is tightened from the upper end portion of the male screw portion 20a. Thus, the mounting plate 202 and the damper mechanism 20 are elastically supported by the elastic rubber 203. A piezoelectric element 27 is disposed in the elastic rubber 203.

  A lower mounting plate 204 for mounting the lower end portion of the damper mechanism 20 is attached to the bottom of the washing machine casing 10, and a through hole 204 a is formed in the lower mounting plate 204. The male threaded portion 20c provided at the lower end of 20 penetrates through the through hole 204a, and elastic rubber 205 is provided vertically on the male threaded portion 20c across the lower mounting plate 204, and the upper end of the male threaded portion 20c. By tightening the female screw 20d, the lower mounting plate 204 and the damper mechanism 20 are elastically supported by the elastic rubber 205.

  As shown in FIG. 1, the piezoelectric element 27 is connected to the vibration power storage means 28, and the vibration power storage means 28 stores the generated power generated by the piezoelectric element 27. Further, the vibration power storage means 28 is connected to the vibration power management means 29, and the vibration power management means 29 uses the power stored in the power for controlling the motor 13 or the like according to the amount of power stored in the vibration power storage means 28. It is configured to do.

  The operation and action of the above configuration will be described.

  In the washing process and the rinsing process, in the case of a drum type washing machine, the laundry lifted upward by the rotation of the rotating drum 12 falls from the position where gravity is superior to the centrifugal force to the bottom of the rotating drum 12, and the operation Repeat so-called tapping. In the washing process and the rinsing process in which the washing is performed, the receiving cylinder 11 vibrates in the vertical direction in synchronization with the rotation due to the fall of the laundry in the rotating drum 12. At this time, the rotational speed of the rotary drum 12 is about 45 r / min.

  On the other hand, in the dehydration process, the rotational speed of the motor 13 is increased to about 1200 r / min. In the process of increasing the dewatering speed, the resonance speed of the support mechanism is in the vicinity of 120 r / min and in the vicinity of 300 r / min, and the receiving cylinder 11 vibrates greatly due to the unbalance of the laundry. In addition to the resonance rotational speed, eccentricity is generated in the rotating drum 12 that is a rotating body due to the unbalance of the laundry, so that the whirling vibration is generated and the receiving cylinder 11 is also vibrated.

  The vibration described above is received by the damper mechanism 20, and vibration is applied to the elastic rubber 203 including the piezoelectric element 27 disposed between the receiving cylinder 11 and the damper mechanism 20, and electric power is generated by the vibration. . The generated power is accumulated in the vibration power storage means 28, and the vibration power management means 29 uses the power stored in the power for controlling the motor 13 or the like according to the amount of power stored in the vibration power storage means 28.

  As described above, the piezoelectric element 27 is disposed between the receiving cylinder 11 of the washing machine and the damper mechanism 20 of the support mechanism, and the storage circuit (vibration storage means 28, vibration power management means 29) is mounted. By converting the vibration into electric power, the vibration of the receiving cylinder 11 can be efficiently converted into electric power and can be used for operation control of the washing machine, so that the energy saving performance of the washing machine can be improved.

(Embodiment 2)
FIG. 3 is a block diagram of a control device including a power generator of the washing machine according to the second embodiment of the present invention. In FIG. 3, the basic configuration of the control device is the same as that of the first embodiment, and thus the basic description is omitted here. Further, the same components as those in the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals as those in FIG.

  The difference from the first embodiment is that a piezoelectric element 27 is disposed between the receiving tube 11 and the support spring 21. Due to the unbalance of the laundry, an eccentricity occurs in the rotating drum 12 as a rotating body, a whirling vibration occurs, and the receiving cylinder 11 also vibrates.

  At this time, the vibration is received by the support spring 21, and vibration is applied to the piezoelectric element disposed between the receiving cylinder 11 and the support spring 21, and electric power is generated by the vibration. Further, the vibration power storage means 28 stores the generated power due to the vibration of the receiving cylinder 11, and the vibration power management means 29 uses the power stored in the power for controlling the motor 13 of the washing machine in accordance with the amount of power storage.

  As described above, the piezoelectric element 27 is arranged between the receiving cylinder 11 of the washing machine and the spring mechanism as the support mechanism, and the storage circuit (vibration storage means 28, vibration power management means 29) is mounted. By converting the vibration into electric power, the vibration of the receiving cylinder 11 can be efficiently converted into electric power and can be used for operation control of the washing machine, so that the energy saving performance of the washing machine can be improved.

(Embodiment 3)
FIG. 4 is a block diagram of a control device including a power generator for a washing machine according to the third embodiment of the present invention. In FIG. 4, the basic configuration of the control device is the same as that of the first embodiment, and thus the basic description is omitted here. Further, the same components as those in the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals as those in FIG.

  The difference from the first embodiment is that a piezoelectric element 27 is disposed between the washing machine casing 10 and the damper mechanism 20. As a result of the unbalance of the laundry, eccentricity occurs in the rotating drum 12 that is a rotating body, so that whirling vibration is generated and the receiving cylinder 11 is also vibrated.

  At this time, the vibration is transmitted to the washing machine casing 10 via the damper mechanism 20, and at that time, the vibration is generated in the elastic rubber 205 including the piezoelectric element 27 disposed between the washing machine casing 10 and the damper mechanism. Is added and electric power is generated by the vibration. Further, the vibration power storage means 28 stores the generated power due to the vibration of the receiving cylinder 11, and the vibration power management means 29 uses the power stored in the power for controlling the motor 13 of the washing machine in accordance with the amount of power storage.

  As described above, the piezoelectric element 27 is disposed between the washing machine casing 10 of the washing machine and the damper mechanism 20 as the support mechanism, and the storage circuit (vibration storage unit 28, vibration power management unit 29) is mounted and received. By converting the vibration of the cylinder 11 into electric power, the vibration of the receiving cylinder 11 and the vibration of the washing machine casing 10 can be efficiently converted into electric power and can be used for operation control of the washing machine. Energy saving performance can be improved.

(Embodiment 4)
FIG. 5 is a block diagram of a control device including a power generator for a washing machine according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention. In FIG. 5, the basic configuration of the control device is the same as that of the first embodiment, and thus the basic description is omitted here. Further, the same components as those in the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals as those in FIG.

  The difference from the first embodiment is that a piezoelectric element 27 is disposed between the upper part of the washing machine casing 10 and the support spring 21. Due to the unbalance of the laundry, an eccentricity occurs in the rotating drum 12 as a rotating body, a whirling vibration occurs, and the receiving cylinder 11 also vibrates.

  At this time, the vibration is transmitted to the washing machine casing 10 via the support spring 21, and vibration is applied to the piezoelectric element 27 disposed between the washing machine casing 10 and the support spring 21. appear. Further, the vibration power storage means 28 stores the generated power due to the vibration of the receiving cylinder 11, and the vibration power management means 29 uses the power stored in the power for controlling the motor 13 of the washing machine in accordance with the amount of power storage.

  As described above, the piezoelectric element 27 is disposed between the upper portion of the washing machine casing 10 of the washing machine and the support spring 21, the storage circuit (vibration storage unit 28, vibration power management unit 29) is mounted, and the receiving cylinder 11 By converting the vibration into electric power, the vibration of the receiving cylinder 11 can be efficiently converted into electric power and can be used for operation control of the washing machine, so that the energy saving performance of the washing machine can be improved.

(Embodiment 5)
FIG. 6 is a block diagram of a control device including a power generator for a washing machine according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention. In FIG. 6, the basic configuration of the control device is the same as that of the first embodiment, and thus the basic description is omitted here. Further, the same components as those in the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals as those in FIG.

The difference from the first embodiment is that a piezoelectric element 27 is arranged in a vibration-proof leg rubber 22 at the bottom of the washing machine casing 10 arranged between the washing machine casing 10 and the floor. . Due to the unbalance of the laundry, the rotating drum 12 that is the rotating body is decentered to generate a whirling vibration and the receiving cylinder 11 vibrates.

  At this time, the vibration of the receiving cylinder 11 is transmitted to the washing machine casing 10 via the support spring 21 and the damper mechanism 20, and the vibration transmitted from the washing machine casing 10 to the floor is further antivibration leg rubber 22. It is also applied to the piezoelectric element 27 arranged inside, and electric power is generated by the vibration. Further, the vibration power storage means 28 stores the generated power due to the vibration of the receiving cylinder 11, and the vibration power management means 29 uses the power stored in the power for controlling the motor 13 of the washing machine in accordance with the amount of power storage.

  As described above, the piezoelectric element 27 is disposed in the vibration-proof leg rubber 22 disposed between the washing machine casing 10 and the floor, and the power storage circuit (vibration power storage means 28, vibration power management means 29) is mounted. By converting the vibration of the receiving cylinder 11 transmitted to the floor and the vibration of the washing machine casing 10 into electric power, the vibration of the receiving cylinder 11 and the vibration of the washing machine casing 10 can be efficiently converted into electric power, and the operation control of the washing machine is performed. Therefore, the energy saving performance of the washing machine can be improved.

(Embodiment 6)
FIG. 7 is a block diagram of a control device including a power generator for a washing machine according to the sixth embodiment of the present invention. In FIG. 7, the basic configuration of the control device is the same as that of the first embodiment, and thus the basic description is omitted here. Further, the same components as those in the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals as those in FIG.

  The difference from the first embodiment is that the piezoelectric element 27 is arranged in the washing machine casing 10. Due to the unbalance of the laundry, the rotating drum 12 that is the rotating body is decentered to generate a whirling vibration and the receiving cylinder 11 vibrates.

  At this time, the vibration of the receiving cylinder 11 is transmitted to the washing machine casing 10 via the support spring 21 and the damper mechanism 20 and is also applied to the piezoelectric element 27 arranged in the washing machine casing 10. Electric power is generated. Further, the vibration power storage means 28 stores the generated power due to the vibration of the washing machine casing 10, and the vibration power management means 29 uses the power stored in the power for controlling the motor 13 of the washing machine in accordance with the amount of power stored.

  As described above, the piezoelectric element 27 is arranged in the washing machine casing 10 and the power storage circuit (vibration power storage means 28, vibration power management means 29) is mounted, and the vibration of the washing machine casing 10 due to the vibration of the receiving cylinder 11 is used as power. By converting to, the vibration of the receiving cylinder 11 and the vibration of the washing machine housing 10 can be efficiently converted into electric power, which can be used for the operation control of the washing machine, thus improving the energy saving performance of the washing machine. can do.

(Embodiment 7)
FIG. 8 is a block diagram of a control device including a power generator for a washing machine according to the seventh embodiment of the present invention. In FIG. 8, the basic configuration of the control device is the same as that of the first embodiment, and thus the basic description is omitted here. Further, the same components as those in the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals as those in FIG.

The difference from the first embodiment is that the acceleration sensor 23 detects the vibration state of the receiving cylinder 11 due to the unbalance of the laundry at the time of dehydration activation, and depending on the magnitude of the vibration state, the high speed is increased. Alternatively, it is determined whether to perform the restart operation (retry process) after correcting the imbalance, and the vibration power management means 29 determines whether to start up at a high rotational speed or to perform the restart operation (retry). There is a vibration threshold adjusting means 30 for adjusting the vibration threshold. Then, the user can adjust the vibration threshold value for determining the dehydration restart operation based on the signal from the acceleration sensor 23, and the switching adjustment between the power generation mode by vibration and the silent mode for minimizing the vibration by the restart operation. Is possible.

  The vibration threshold means 30 switches between power generation / storage operation and retry operation in accordance with the signal from the acceleration sensor 23. The vibration threshold value can be changed by the user using the input means 31. The user sets the vibration threshold value high when giving priority to the power generation operation, and sets the vibration threshold value low when giving priority to the silent operation.

  As described above, the vibration power management unit 29 includes the vibration threshold adjustment unit 30 that allows the user to adjust the vibration threshold to switch between the power generation mode and the silent mode. It is possible to switch between emphasis and power consumption emphasis, and it is possible to improve the vibration noise performance and energy saving performance of the washing machine.

(Embodiment 8)
FIG. 9 is a block diagram of a control device including a power generator for a washing machine according to the eighth embodiment of the present invention. In FIG. 9, the basic configuration of the control device is the same as that of the first embodiment, and thus the basic description is omitted here. Further, the same components as those in the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals as those in FIG.

  The difference from the first embodiment is that the control means has a power storage display means 32. The vibration power management means 29 manages the amount of stored power and outputs the value to the power storage display means 31. The power storage display means 32 is composed of, for example, a liquid crystal panel and is arranged along with the operation switch so that the user can check the power storage amount.

  As described above, since the vibration power management unit 29 includes the power storage display unit 31 that displays the power storage amount, the user can confirm the energy saving effect, and the energy saving performance can be improved.

(Embodiment 9)
FIG. 10 is a block diagram of a control device including a power generator for a washing machine according to the ninth embodiment of the present invention. In FIG. 10, the basic configuration of the control device is the same as that of the first embodiment, and thus the basic description is omitted here. Further, the same components as those in the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals as those in FIG.

  The difference from the first embodiment is that the vibration power management means 29 of the control means 24 has a power supply switching means 33.

  The vibration power management means 29 grasps the amount of power stored in the vibration power storage means 28, and when the power amount equal to or higher than the preset power amount is stored, the vibration power management means 29 uses the power from the normal power supply 34 as the vibration power storage means. It switches to the circuit side of 28, and controls operation | movement of a washing machine with stored electric power.

  As described above, when the vibration power management means 29 detects that the amount of power stored in the vibration power storage means 28 exceeds a predetermined value, the power of the vibration power storage means 28 is switched from the power supply 34 to be used for washing machine control. By having the power supply switching means 33, it can be used for operation control of the washing machine, so that the energy saving performance of the washing machine can be improved.

(Embodiment 10)
FIG. 11 is a block diagram of a control device including a power generator for a washing machine according to the tenth embodiment of the present invention. In FIG. 11, the basic configuration of the control device is the same as that of the first embodiment, and thus the basic description is omitted here. Further, the same components as those in the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals as those in FIG.

  The difference from the first embodiment is that the vibration storage means 28 is a secondary battery, and is attached to the inside of the casing cover 14 of the washing machine casing 10 and can be removed and used for other devices. It is. As a result, the electric power stored by the vibration of the washing machine can be used for other electronic devices, and the energy saving performance of home appliances including the washing machine can be improved.

  As described above, since the vibration storage means 28 is a secondary battery, the power stored by the vibration of the washing machine can be used for other electronic devices, so that the energy saving performance of the washing machine can be improved. it can.

  In the present embodiment, the acceleration sensor 23 is arranged on the upper side of the side surface of the receiving cylinder 11. However, the same effect can be obtained by arranging the acceleration sensor 23 on the bottom of the receiving cylinder 11, the housing cover 14, or the like.

  In the first embodiment, the piezoelectric element 27 is disposed at the connection portion between the damper mechanism 20 and the receiving cylinder 11. However, the same effect can be obtained even if the piezoelectric element 27 is incorporated in the damper mechanism 20.

  In the first embodiment, the piezoelectric element 27 is disposed in the elastic rubber 203 which is a connecting portion between the damper mechanism 20 and the receiving cylinder 11. However, the same effect can be obtained at the upper or lower portion of the elastic rubber 203 that is sandwiched. It is.

  In the second embodiment, the piezoelectric element 27 is disposed at the connection portion between the support spring 21 and the receiving cylinder 11, but the same effect can be obtained even if incorporated in the support spring 21.

  In the third embodiment, the piezoelectric element 27 is disposed at the connecting portion between the damper mechanism 20 and the washing machine casing 10. However, the same effect can be obtained even if the piezoelectric element 27 is incorporated in the damper mechanism 20.

  In the fourth embodiment, the piezoelectric element 27 is disposed at the connection portion between the support spring 21 and the washing machine casing 10, but the same effect can be obtained even if the piezoelectric element 27 is incorporated in the support spring 21.

  In the fifth embodiment, the piezoelectric element 27 is disposed in the anti-vibration leg rubber 22 at the bottom of the washing machine casing 10, but may be disposed between the anti-vibration leg rubber 22 and the washing machine casing 10. Similar effects are possible.

  Further, in the present embodiment, the piezoelectric element 27 is a piezoelectric element utilizing a piezoelectric effect, but the same effect can be obtained by an element utilizing electrostatic capacitance or an element utilizing electromagnetic induction.

  As described above, the washing machine according to the present invention can efficiently convert the receiving tube vibration into electric power and can be used for operation control of the washing machine, so that the energy saving performance of the washing machine can be improved. It is useful as a washing machine that can.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 10 Washing machine housing | casing 12 Rotating drum 11 Receptacle 13 Motor 20 Damper mechanism (support mechanism)
24 Control means 27 Piezoelectric element (vibration power generation means)
28 Vibration storage means

Claims (17)

A washing machine housing; a rotating drum for storing laundry; a receiving cylinder for rotatably storing the rotating drum; a motor fixed to the receiving cylinder for rotationally driving the rotating drum; and the washing cylinder for the washing A support mechanism that elastically supports the machine casing; and a control unit that controls and drives the motor; and a vibration power generation unit that generates power using vibration between the receiving tube and the support mechanism. A washing machine comprising: a vibration storage means for storing power generated by the vibration power generation means. The washing machine according to claim 1, wherein the support mechanism is a damper mechanism that supports the receiving cylinder from below, and the vibration power generation means is disposed at a portion where the damper mechanism and the receiving cylinder are connected. The washing machine according to claim 1, wherein the support mechanism is a support spring that supports the receiving cylinder from above, and the vibration power generation means is disposed at a portion where the support spring and the receiving cylinder are connected. A washing machine housing; a rotating drum for storing laundry; a receiving cylinder for rotatably storing the rotating drum; a motor fixed to the receiving cylinder for rotationally driving the rotating drum; and the washing cylinder for the washing A vibration generating means for generating power using vibration between the washing machine casing and the support mechanism, and a support mechanism that elastically supports the machine casing; and a control means that controls and drives the motor. And a vibration storage means for storing the power generated by the vibration power generation means. 5. The washing machine according to claim 4, wherein the support mechanism is a damper mechanism that supports the receiving tube from below, and the vibration power generation means is disposed at a portion where the damper mechanism and the washing machine casing are connected to each other. . 5. The washing machine according to claim 4, wherein the support mechanism is a support spring for supporting the receiving tube from above, and the vibration power generation means is disposed at a portion where the support spring and the washing machine casing are connected. . A washing machine housing; a rotating drum for storing laundry; a receiving cylinder for rotatably storing the rotating drum; a motor fixed to the receiving cylinder for rotationally driving the rotating drum; and the washing cylinder for the washing A support mechanism that elastically supports the machine casing and a control unit that controls and drives the motor, and a vibration power generation unit that generates power using vibration is provided between the washing machine casing and the floor. A washing machine comprising vibration storage means for storing electric power generated by the vibration power generation means. 8. The washing machine according to claim 7, wherein a vibration isolation leg rubber for installation on the floor is provided at the bottom of the washing machine casing, and the arrangement vibration power generation means is provided in the vibration isolation leg rubber part. A washing machine housing; a rotating drum for storing laundry; a receiving cylinder for rotatably storing the rotating drum; a motor fixed to the receiving cylinder for rotationally driving the rotating drum; and the washing cylinder for the washing A support mechanism that elastically supports the machine casing, and a control unit that controls and drives the motor. On the inner surface of the washing machine casing, a vibration power generation unit that generates power using vibration is provided. A washing machine comprising vibration storage means for storing electric power generated by the vibration power generation means. The washing machine according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the control means includes vibration power management means for managing the power generated and stored by the vibration power storage means. Vibration detecting means for detecting the vibration of the receiving cylinder, and the vibration power managing means adjusts a vibration threshold value for shifting to retry processing according to a vibration value detected by the vibration detecting means, and generates a power generation mode and a silent mode. The washing machine according to claim 10, further comprising a vibration threshold value adjusting means for switching between the two. 11. The washing machine according to claim 10, wherein the vibration power management means includes power storage display means for displaying the amount of power stored in the vibration power storage means. 11. The vibration power management means includes power source switching means for switching a power source so that the power is used for washing machine control when the amount of power stored in the vibration power storage means exceeds a predetermined value. The washing machine as described in. The washing machine according to any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the vibration storage means is a secondary battery and is configured to be removed and usable for other devices. The washing machine according to any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein the vibration power generation means has a piezoelectric effect as a power generation principle. The washing machine according to any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein the vibration power generation means has a power generation principle of magnetic induction. The washing machine according to any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein the vibration power generation means has a power generation principle of capacitance change.