JP2013226241A - Washing machine - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a washing machine capable of performing automatic tank cleaning at an appropriate frequency.SOLUTION: A washing/drying machine W not only performs a series of washing processes but also performs, between the series of washing processes, an automatic tank cleaning process for at least one of an outer tank and an inner tank. The automatic tank cleaning process is performed if prescribed conditions are satisfied, for example, if the number of times of continuously performing a washing operation not including the tank cleaning process exceeds a prescribed number of times, or a concentration of a detergent in rinsing water exceeds a prescribed concentration.

Description

  The present invention relates to a washing machine capable of automatically washing a tub.

  In some washing machines, dirt is attached to the inner tub and the outer tub, so that a course for washing the tub can be set separately from the washing operation. However, in the course for the purpose of cleaning the tank, a cleaning chemical is required, and the cleaning operation is complicated, such as an operation for the user to select the tank cleaning course.

  Therefore, as another method of washing the washing machine tub, by providing a bubble injection device for injecting bubbles at the bottom of the outer tub or the inner tub, and injecting bubbles into the dirt with water stored in the outer tub A technique for removing dirt from the tank has been proposed (see Patent Document 1).

JP 2008-43651 A

  In the technique described in Patent Document 1, the rinsing process is executed, and at the same time, the bubble jetting device is operated to automatically wash the tank. In a washing machine having such an automatic tub washing function, the tub is washed each time washing is performed, so that the time required for washing, water, electric power, and the like increase from those during normal washing. For this reason, users who want to reduce the time required for washing, water, electric power, etc., and users who perform washing many times a day, cancel the automatic tank cleaning function and manually activate the automatic tank cleaning function only when necessary. May be turned on and used. However, manual on / off setting of the automatic tank cleaning function takes time and effort, and if you forget to turn on the automatic tank cleaning function and continue to use the washing machine, dirt accumulates. There is.

  This invention solves the said subject, The objective is to provide the washing machine which can perform automatic tank washing | cleaning with appropriate frequency.

  The present invention comprises an outer tub supported in a housing and storing washing water therein, an inner tub enclosed in the outer tub and containing laundry, and a washing step for the laundry in the inner tub. A control means for performing a series of washing steps including a rinsing step and a dehydration step, and performing a tank washing step for washing at least one of the outer tub and the inner tub during the series of washing steps, When the predetermined condition is satisfied, the control means performs the tank cleaning process until the series of washing processes is completed, and performs the series of washing processes when the predetermined condition is not satisfied. And

  ADVANTAGE OF THE INVENTION According to this invention, it becomes possible to provide the washing machine which can perform automatic tank washing | cleaning with appropriate frequency.

It is an external appearance perspective view of a vertical washer-dryer. It is the schematic which shows the inside of the housing | casing of a vertical type washing-drying machine. It is a disassembled perspective view which shows the inside of the housing | casing of a vertical type washing-drying machine. It is an expansion perspective view which shows the water supply unit of a vertical type washing dryer. It is a disassembled perspective view which shows the outer tank cover of a vertical type washing dryer. The waterway member which comprises the water supply path | route of a vertical type washing-drying machine is shown, (a) is the perspective view seen from the bottom face side, (b) is the A section enlarged perspective view. It is an expanded sectional view showing the channel member of a vertical type washing dryer. It is an expanded sectional view which shows the assembly position of the water channel member of a vertical type washing dryer. The electrical conductivity sensor of a vertical type washing dryer is shown, (a) is a perspective view when viewed from above, and (b) is a perspective view when viewed from the bottom side upside down. (A) is a perspective view which shows an electrode single-piece | unit, (b) is the sectional view on the AA line of Fig.4 (a). The state of attachment of the electrical conductivity sensor of the vertical washer / dryer is shown, (a) is a plan view when viewed from the upper part of the outer tub, (b) is an enlarged view of part B in FIG. 4, and (c) is a perspective view. is there. It is CC sectional view taken on the line of FIG. It is a functional diagram of an electrical conductivity sensor. It is a figure which shows the function structure of the control apparatus of a vertical type washing-drying machine. It is the schematic which shows the path | route from the water supply unit of a vertical type washing dryer to a washing machine (washing dryer). It is process drawing explaining the driving | operation process of a vertical type washing dryer. It is a schematic diagram which shows the flow of the water at the time of the tank washing | cleaning of a vertical type washing dryer. It is a flowchart of the tank washing | cleaning process of a vertical type washing dryer. It is the flowchart which showed the tank washing shower operation | movement of the spin-drying | dehydration process of a vertical type washing dryer. It is a perspective view which shows the external appearance of a drum type washing-drying machine. It is a side view which shows the internal structure of a drum type washing-drying machine. It is a perspective view which shows the internal structure of a drum type washing-drying machine. It is a rear view which shows the internal structure of a drum type washing-drying machine. It is a perspective view which shows the connection state of a water supply solenoid valve, a washing water supply hose, and a drainage hose. It is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of an outer tank water supply joint. It is a side view which shows the positional relationship of a washing water supply hose and a drainage hose. It is a top view which shows arrangement | positioning of the outer tub cover side nozzle of a drum type washing-drying machine. It is the sectional view on the AA line of FIG. The single unit of an outer tank cover side nozzle is shown, (a) is a front view, (b) is a side view, (c) is a top view, and (d) is a bottom view. It is an expanded sectional view which shows the flow of the water by an outer tank cover side nozzle. It is a top view which shows typically the washing | cleaning range by the outer tank cover side nozzle. It is a perspective view which shows the outer tank in a drum type washing-drying machine. It is a principal part expansion perspective view of the inner bottom part of a drum type washing-drying machine. It is a block diagram which shows a drum type washing-drying machine. It is a whole process table | surface which shows the opening / closing operation | movement of various water supply solenoid valves. It is a flowchart which shows the control in a tank washing | cleaning 1 process. It is a flowchart which shows the control in 1 spin-drying | dehydration process. It is a flowchart which shows the control in a tank cleaning 2 process. It is a flowchart which shows the control in dehydration 2 process. It is a figure which shows the operation panel of a washing-drying machine. 3 is a flowchart showing a procedure for determining whether or not to perform a tank cleaning process according to the first embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the necessity determination procedure of the tank washing | cleaning process concerning Embodiment 2. FIG.

  Hereinafter, modes for carrying out the present invention (hereinafter referred to as “embodiments”) will be described in detail with reference to the drawings as appropriate. In the following description, a washing / drying machine capable of performing steps from washing to drying will be described as an example of the washing machine. In addition, about the same element in each drawing, the same code | symbol is attached | subjected and description is abbreviate | omitted.

≪Configuration and operation of washing and drying machine≫
First, the configuration and operation of the washing / drying machine W according to the embodiment will be described. The washing / drying machine W according to the present embodiment automatically performs a tank washing process when performing a series of washing processes including a washing process, a rinsing process, and a dehydration process, and is not visible to the user such as the back side of the washing tub. It has a function (automatic tank cleaning function) to clean sebum dirt and detergent residue adhering to the part. Hereinafter, examples of the laundry dryer W include a vertical laundry dryer W1 (see FIG. 1) and a drum-type laundry dryer W2 (see FIG. 20). The operation in will be described.
<Vertical washing and drying machine>
First, the configuration and operation of a vertical washer / dryer will be described with reference to FIGS.
1 is an external perspective view of a vertical washer / dryer, FIG. 2 is a schematic view showing the inside of the casing of the vertical washer / dryer, and FIG. 3 is an exploded view showing the inside of the casing of the vertical washer / dryer. It is a perspective view.
As shown in FIG. 1, the vertical laundry dryer W1 (W) is a vertical laundry dryer (vertical laundry dryer) in which the rotation axis of the inner tub 18 is substantially vertical. An upper surface cover 12a is provided on the upper portion of the casing 12 of the vertical washer / dryer W1, and an outer lid 13 is provided on the upper surface cover 12a. The outer lid 13 is opened while being bent in the shape of a mountain on the back side, thereby opening the opening 12b (see FIG. 2) and allowing clothes (laundry) to be taken in and out of the inner tub 18 (see FIG. 2). Yes.

  A water supply hose connection port 14 from the water tap and a water absorption hose connection port 15 for remaining hot water in the bath are provided on the back side (rear side) of the upper surface cover 12a. A power button 16 is provided on the front side of the top cover 12a, and an operation panel 17 including an operation button 17a and a display 17b is provided on the front side of the outer lid 13.

  As shown in FIG. 2, the vertical washer / dryer W <b> 1 includes an inner tub 18, an outer tub 19, a driving device 110, a detergent / finishing agent charging device 111, a water supply unit 112 </ b> A, a drying duct 120, etc. It has.

  The inner tub 18 has a bottomed cylindrical shape and includes a body plate 18a formed of a stainless steel plate or the like. A large number of through-holes (see FIG. 2, only part of which are shown) 18a1 for water flow and ventilation are formed in the body plate 18a. The inner tank 18 includes a rotary blade 18b on the inner bottom surface.

  The outer tub 19 has a bottomed cylindrical shape, includes the inner tub 18 coaxially, and includes an outer tub cover 19a on the upper portion thereof. The user of the vertical laundry dryer W1 can put clothes in and out of the inner tub 18 from the opening 12b by opening the outer lid 13 and the lid member 19c of the outer tub cover 19a.

  The driving device 110 is disposed at the center outside the bottom surface of the outer tub 19. The drive device 110 includes a motor 110a and a clutch mechanism 110b, and the rotation shaft 110c of the drive device 110 is configured to penetrate the outer tub 19 and to be coupled to the inner tub 18 and the rotary blades 18b. The clutch mechanism 110b has a function of transmitting the rotational power of the motor 110a to the inner tank 18 and / or the rotary blade 18b. The motor 110a includes a rotation detection device 128 configured by a Hall element or a photo interrupter that detects the rotation, and a motor current detection device 129 that detects a current flowing through the motor 110a.

  The charging device 111 is provided on the front side of the top cover 12a. The detergent and the finishing agent are charged between the outer tank 19 and the inner tank 18 by the charging hose 111a.

  The water supply unit 112A is provided on the back side of the top cover 12a. This water supply unit 112A supplies tap water from the water supply hose connection port 14 to a charging device 111 and a water-cooled dehumidification mechanism (not shown) described later. In addition, the water supply unit 112A receives tap water from the water supply hose connection port 14 and bath water from the water absorption hose connection port 15 (see FIG. 1) from between the outer tank 19 and the inner tank 18 via the water injection hose 111b. Water can be poured into the outer tub 19. Further, the water supply unit 112A can inject tap water from the water supply hose connection port 14 into the upper portion of the inner tank 18 through the cleaning hose 111c. A detailed description of the water supply unit 112A will be described later with reference to FIG.

  A drop portion 19 m provided on the bottom surface of the outer tub 19 is connected so as to communicate with the lower communication pipe 113. The lower communication pipe 113 is connected to communicate with the washing water drainage path 115 via the drain valve 114. By closing the drain valve 114, it is possible to store wash water and rinsing water in the outer tub 19 in the drop-in portion 19 m and the lower communication pipe 113. Further, by opening the drain valve 114, the water in the outer tub 19 can be drained out of the vertical washer / dryer W1 through the washing water drainage channel 115.

  Further, the lower communication pipe 113 is connected so as to communicate with a washing water circulation channel 118 (partially omitted) through a foreign matter removing device 116 and a circulation pump 117 installed at the lower part of the housing 12. The washing water circulation channel 118 is connected so as to communicate with a lint removing device (not shown) provided above the inner tub 18.

  When the circulation pump 117 is driven, the water in the outer tub 19 flows into the foreign matter removing device 116 through the drop portion 19m and the lower communication pipe 113, and the foreign matter is removed, and flows into the suction port of the circulation pump 117. The water sent from the circulation pump 117 flows into the waste thread removing device via the washing water circulation channel 118, and the waste thread is removed. The water from which the waste thread is removed (circulated water) is sprayed into the inner tank 18 from above. Water is poured to make.

  The drying duct 120 is installed vertically inside the back surface of the housing 12, and the lower portion of the drying duct 120 is connected to the drop portion 19m of the outer tub 19 by a rubber bellows tube 120a. A water-cooled dehumidifying mechanism (not shown) is built in the drying duct 120, and cooling water is supplied from the water supply unit 112A to the water-cooled dehumidifying mechanism. The cooling water flows down the wall surface (a metal plate made of stainless steel or the like) of the drying duct 120 and enters the drop portion 19m, and is discharged outside the machine through the lower communication pipe 113 and the washing water drainage path 115.

  The outlet of the drying duct 120 is connected to the inlet of the fan 121, and the outlet of the fan 121 is connected to the heater 122. The outlet of the heater 122 is connected to the blowout nozzle 124 via the blower duct 123 and the rubber bellows pipe 123a.

  As described above, in the drying process, air in the outer tub 19 is water-cooled and dehumidified by the drying duct 120 and sucked from the suction port of the fan 121, and the air discharged from the fan 121 is heated by the heater 122 to obtain high temperature and low humidity. Can be blown out from the blowing nozzle 124 into the inner tank 18.

  Although not shown, the air duct 123 has a temperature sensor that detects the temperature of the air blown into the inner tub 18 during the drying operation, and the drop portion 19m of the outer tub 19 has a wash water A temperature sensor for detecting the temperature and the temperature of air sucked into the drying duct 120 during the drying operation, between the lower communication pipe 113 and the drain valve 114, the temperature of the washing water and the washing water drainage channel 115 during the drying operation. A temperature sensor (not shown) for detecting the temperature of the air discharged from the machine from the outside, and an acceleration sensor (not shown) for detecting vibration acceleration due to the vibration of the outer tank 19 are provided on the upper side of the outer tank 19. It has been. Further, a water level sensor (not shown) for detecting the level of the washing water stored in the outer tub 19 and a water quality sensor (not shown) for measuring the water quality during washing are provided.

  As shown in FIG. 3, the inner tub 18 includes a balance ring (also referred to as a fluid balancer) 18c formed of a synthetic resin or the like at the upper end edge of the body plate 18a. The balance ring 18c is configured by enclosing a fluid having a large specific gravity therein, and when the eccentricity occurs due to the bias of the laundry when the inner tub 18 rotates, the balance ring 18c is eccentric due to the movement of the fluid in the balance ring 18c. Has the function of canceling and maintaining the balance of rotation.

  The outer tub cover 19 a has a substantially semicircular inlet 19 b and is attached to the upper edge of the outer tub 19. The insertion port 19b is provided with a lid member 19c (see FIG. 2) attached so as to be openable and closable. Further, on the back side (rear side) of the outer tub cover 19a, a connection port 19d to which an end of the washing water circulation channel 118 (see FIG. 2) is connected and an insertion portion to which the bellows tube 123a (see FIG. 2) is connected. 19e is provided with a connection hole 19f to which a tank cleaning hose 111c (see FIG. 2) described later is connected. In addition, about the part which overlaps with FIG. 2, the same code | symbol is attached | subjected and description is abbreviate | omitted.

FIG. 4 is an enlarged perspective view showing a water supply unit of the vertical washer / dryer.
As shown in FIG. 4, the water supply unit 112A includes a detergent water supply electromagnetic valve 112a, a finishing agent / tank cleaning water supply electromagnetic valve 112b, a cooling water supply electromagnetic valve 112c, an outer tank water supply electromagnetic valve 112d, and a switching electromagnetic valve 112e. A bath water pump 112f, and a water supply path unit 130.

  The detergent water supply solenoid valve 112a passes tap water from the water supply hose connection port 14 through a water supply port (not shown) through the water supply path unit 130 and is connected to a water outlet 132 through a hose 112i (see FIG. 2). Then, water is supplied to a detergent charging chamber (not shown) of the charging device 111 (see FIG. 2). The tap water poured into the detergent charging chamber is poured into the outer tub 19 (see FIG. 2) through the charging hose 111a (see FIG. 2) together with the introduced detergent.

Finishing agent / bath cleaning water supply electromagnetic valve 112b is a water channel which will be described later through cleaning hose 111c connected to water outlet 134 through tap water from water supply hose connection port 14 through water supply path unit 130 from water inlet 133. Water is supplied to the member 150 (see FIG. 2).
Further, the finishing agent / bath cleaning water supply electromagnetic valve 112b connects the tap water from the water supply hose connection port 14 through the water supply path unit 130 to the water outlet 135 through the water supply port 133 when the switching electromagnetic valve 112e is opened. Water is supplied to a finishing agent charging chamber (not shown) of the charging device 111 (see FIG. 2) through the hose 112j. The tap water poured into the finishing agent charging chamber is poured into the outer tub 19 through the charging hose 111a (see FIG. 2) together with the finished finishing agent.

  The cooling water supply electromagnetic valve 112c supplies tap water from the water supply hose connection port 14 to a water cooling / dehumidification mechanism (not shown) of the drying duct 120 (see FIG. 2) via a hose (not shown).

  The outer tank water supply electromagnetic valve 112d supplies tap water from the water supply hose connection port 14 into the outer tank 19 (see FIG. 2) from a water injection hose 111b (see FIG. 2) connected to the flow path 112h.

The switching solenoid valve 112e switches whether to supply water for the finishing agent.
In addition, the bath water from the water absorption hose connection port 15 pumped up by the bath water pump 112f enters the outer tank 19 (see FIG. 2) from the water injection hose 111b (see FIG. 2) joined and connected to the flow path 112h. Water is supplied.

FIG. 5 is an exploded perspective view showing an outer tub cover of a vertical washer / dryer.
As shown in FIG. 5, a water channel member 150 is fixed to the lower surface of the outer tub cover 19 a via a plurality of screws 160 in the outer tub cover 19 a. This water channel member 150 is formed in a substantially circular shape with synthetic resin or the like, and has a concave water channel 150 s formed so that the concave surface faces the outer tank cover 19 a side. Moreover, the water channel member 150 is arrange | positioned so that it may circulate along the peripheral part of the outer tank cover 19a (it makes a round).

  Further, the water channel member 150 includes a plurality of attachment portions 151 and 152 for fixing screws. The mounting portion 151 has a mountain-shaped piece portion 151a formed so as to protrude inward (inward in the radial direction), and a screw insertion hole 151b penetrating in the vertical direction is formed in the piece portion 151a. Yes. The attachment portion 152 has a piece portion 152a formed outward, and a screw insertion hole 152b penetrating in the vertical direction is formed in the piece portion 152a. In the present embodiment, the six attachment portions 151 and the attachment portions 152 are alternately arranged at intervals in the circumferential direction.

  Further, the water channel member 150 is formed such that the water channel 150s protrudes inward and meanders at a position where the attachment portion 152 is formed. Accordingly, the outer peripheral edge of the water channel member 150 is formed to be substantially a circle. Thus, by eliminating the portion that protrudes outside the water channel member 150, the water channel member 150 can be disposed closer to the outer peripheral edge of the outer tank cover 19 a, and the inner tank 18 (see FIG. 2) and the outer The water channel member 150 can be suitably arranged at a position facing the gap with the tank 19 (see FIG. 2).

6A and 6B show water channel members constituting the water supply path of the vertical washer / dryer, in which FIG. 6A is a perspective view seen from the bottom surface side, and FIG.
As shown in FIG. 6A, 24 side surface water spray ports 150 b 1 are formed on the inner surface 150 b of the water channel member 150 at intervals in the circumferential direction (only a part is shown). As shown in FIG. 6B, four bottom surface side water spouts 150 a 1 are formed on the bottom surface 150 a of the water channel member 150 at intervals in the circumferential direction.

FIG. 7 is an enlarged cross-sectional view showing a water channel member of a vertical washing and drying machine.
As shown in FIG. 7, the bottom surface side water spout 150a1 penetrates the bottom surface 150a so as to incline with respect to the vertical direction so as to face the inside. The number of the bottom-side watering port 150a1 and the side surface-side watering port 150b1 is not limited to the number of the present embodiment, and can be appropriately increased or decreased depending on the type of the vertical washing dryer W1 and the internal structure.

FIG. 8 is an enlarged cross-sectional view showing the assembly position of the water channel member of the vertical washer / dryer.
As shown in FIG. 8, a water channel member 150 is accommodated on the lower surface of the outer peripheral edge of the outer tub cover 19a, and a recess 19a1 having an open lower side is formed along the circumferential direction. In addition, two grooves 19a3 and 19a4 are formed on the bottom surface 19a2 of the recess 19a1 at positions corresponding to the inner side surface 150b and the outer side surface 150c of the water channel member 150. A seal member (not shown) is injected into the grooves 19a3 and 19a4, and the mounting portions 151 and 152 (FIG. 5) are covered with the outer tank cover in a state where the inner surface 150b and the outer surface 150c are attached to the grooves 19a3 and 19a4. The water channel member 150 is fixed to the outer tub cover 19a in a watertight manner by screwing to the 19a. Further, at this time, the side surface water spray port 150b1 of the water channel member 150 faces the side wall portion 19a5 of the recess 19a1.

  By attaching the water channel member 150 to the outer tank cover 19a in this way, in this embodiment, the water channel member 150 is disposed at a position corresponding to the gap between the inner tank 18 (balance ring 18c) and the outer tank 19. Is done. In the present embodiment, a space surrounded by the bottom surface 150a, the inner side surface 150b and the outer side surface 150c of the water channel member 150 and the bottom surface 19a2 of the outer tub cover 19a facing the concave surface of the water channel member 150 corresponds to the water supply path. .

  The vertical washer-dryer W1 (FIG. 1) is provided with an electrical conductivity sensor which is a measuring means for measuring the electrical conductivity in water. By using the measured value of the electrical conductivity sensor, it is possible to appropriately determine the rinsing time, the cleaning time, the amount of detergent, and the like.

  FIG. 9 shows an electrical conductivity sensor of the washing machine (washing and drying machine) according to the present embodiment, (a) is a perspective view when viewed from above, and (b) is an inverted view when viewed from the bottom side. FIG.

  As shown in FIG. 9A, the electrical conductivity sensor 140 detects the hardness of tap water before washing and washing water at the time of washing (washing, rinsing, dehydrating), and a base 141 made of synthetic resin. (Support) and a pair of electrodes 142A and 142B. In addition, in the electric conductivity sensor 140, the base 141 and the electrodes 142A and 142B are integrally formed by insert molding.

  The base 141 has an electrode support portion 141a for supporting the electrodes 142A and 142B, and a fixing portion 141b for fixing the electrode support portion 141a to the outer tub 19 (see FIG. 2).

  The electrode support portion 141a includes a cylindrical portion 141c1 and an upper surface portion 141c2 (upper surface) that covers the upper portion of the cylindrical portion 141c1, and a groove portion 141d that extends in a strip shape is formed on the upper surface portion 141c2. The groove portion 141d is configured such that one end thereof is open and a wall portion 141d1 (wall surface) is formed at the other end. The opening side of one end of the groove portion 141d is configured such that the cylindrical portion 141c1 is cut away.

  Further, electrodes 142A and 142B are arranged on the side surfaces 141d2 and 141d3 of the groove portion 141d so as to face each other along the surfaces of the side surfaces 141d2 and 141d3. A rib 141e is formed along the electrodes 142A and 142B at the center of the bottom surface 141d4 of the groove 141d.

  The fixed portion 141b is a member that constitutes the bottom surface of the base 141, and has a substantially triangular plate-shaped attachment portion 141f from the lower end portion of the electrode support portion 141a. The attachment portion 141f is formed to protrude outward with respect to the electrode support portion 141a, and screw insertion holes 141f1 are formed at three corners of the attachment portion 141f.

  An annular portion 141g formed so as to surround the electrode support portion 141a is formed on the attachment portion 141f so as to protrude upward between the screw insertion hole 141f1 and the electrode support portion 141a. The upper end portion 141g1 of the annular portion 141g is formed so as to extend to a substantially intermediate portion in the vertical direction (height direction) of the electrode support portion 141a in the vertical direction (height direction).

  As shown in FIG. 9B, the electrode support portion 141a of the base 141 is open on the bottom side, and a part of the electrodes 142A and 142B provided on the electrode support portion 141a is directed downward in the cylindrical portion 141c1. Protruding.

FIG. 10A is a perspective view showing a single electrode, and FIG. 10B is a cross-sectional view taken along line AA of FIG.
As shown in FIG. 10A, the electrodes 142A and 142B have the same flat plate shape, and a detection portion 142a protruding into the groove portion 141d, a resin fixing portion 142b fixed to the electrode support portion 141a, and a detection Connector connector 142c to which connector C (see FIG. 12) is connected. Thus, by making the electrodes 142A and 142B into a flat plate shape, the electrode area can be secured wider than that of the rod-shaped electrode, and stable hardness detection can be achieved.

  The detection part 142a is formed in a substantially rectangular shape and has a surface area larger than that of the resin fixing part 142b and the connector connection part 142c. Moreover, the detection part 142a is formed so that the length L is shorter than the length Lm of the groove part 141d (see FIG. 11B). Moreover, the upper end edge 142a1 of the detection unit 142a is formed in an arc shape. By being formed in an arc shape in this manner, it is possible to prevent dust such as lint from being caught by eliminating the corners.

  The resin fixing part 142b includes a first fixing part 142b1 having the same width as the detecting part 142a and a second fixing part 142b2 having a width narrower than that of the detecting part 142a.

  The first fixing portion 142b1 has a substantially T-shaped through hole 142b3. The second fixing portion 142b2 has a tapered portion 142b4 whose both ends are tapered from the first fixing portion 142b1 to the connector connecting portion 142c.

  As shown in FIG. 10B, the back side of the electrode support portion 141a (the surface opposite to the surface on which the groove portion 141d is formed) protrudes downward at positions corresponding to the side surfaces 141d2 and 141d3 of the groove portion 141d. The protruding ridge 141h is formed. The through hole 142b3 is positioned in the protruding portion 141h. Thereby, the resin at the time of insert molding is connected via the through-hole 142b3, whereby the electrodes 142A and 142B are firmly supported with respect to the base 141 (FIG. 9). Further, by ensuring a large area of the through hole 142b3 as in the embodiment, the electrode 142A (142B) is more firmly supported with respect to the base 141.

  11A and 11B show a state where the electrical conductivity sensor is attached, where FIG. 11A is a plan view when viewed from the upper part of the outer tub, FIG. 11B is an enlarged view of a portion B in FIG. 9, and FIG.

  As shown in FIG. 11A, the electrical conductivity sensor 140 is disposed on the outer peripheral edge portion of the bottom wall portion 19 cn of the outer tub 19. At this time, the groove portion 141 d of the electrical conductivity sensor 140 is disposed so as to extend in the radial direction Z (normal direction) of the outer tub 19.

  As shown in FIG. 11B, the side surface 141d2 of the groove 141d has a recessed portion 141i, and the electrode 142A is disposed in the recessed portion 141i. Similarly, the other side surface 141d3 is also provided with a recess 141i formed on the side surface 141d3 so that the electrode 142B is fitted.

  The rib 141e formed on the bottom surface 141d4 of the groove 141d described above is formed to extend in the radial direction Z between the electrode 142A and the electrode 142B. The rib 141e is longer than the electrodes 142A and 142B, and extends from one end (opening side, inside in the radial direction Z) to the other end (wall 141d1 side, outside in the radial direction Z).

  As shown in FIG. 11C, the rib 141e is formed sufficiently lower than the height of the electrodes 142A and 142B. Note that a cutout portion 19d1 formed with the same curvature as the cylindrical outer peripheral surface of the electrode support portion 141a is formed on the inner peripheral surface of the peripheral wall portion 19dn of the outer tub 19. This notch 19d1 is formed so that the arc shape becomes shorter upward.

  Thus, by forming the notch portion 19d1, it is possible to prevent a groove from being formed between the electrode support portion 141a and the peripheral wall portion 19dn of the outer tub 19, and to prevent dirt and dust from entering the groove. It has become. In addition, the wall 141d1 of the groove 141d and the surface of the notch 19d1 become a continuous surface, so that water flowing down from the peripheral wall 19dn can easily pass through the groove 141d.

12 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line CC of FIG.
As shown in FIG. 12, the electrical conductivity sensor 140 has an electrode support portion 141 a (141 b) from the outside (lower side) of the outer tub 19 with respect to the circular mounting hole 19 c 1 formed in the bottom wall portion 19 cn of the outer tub 19. ) Is inserted, and the bottom surface 141d4 of the groove portion 141d is set to be slightly higher than the bottom surface 19c2 of the bottom wall portion 19cn of the outer tub 19.

  Further, the bottom surface 141d4 of the groove portion 141d is such that the outer side in the radial direction Z is perpendicular to the horizontal bottom surface 19c2 of the bottom wall portion 19cn than the inner side in the radial direction Z (see FIG. 11A). It is inclined so as to become higher. The inclination angle α of the bottom surface 141d4 is set to 6 degrees, for example. By setting such an angle α, it is possible to prevent water from stagnating.

  Further, the annular portion 141 g formed in the electrical conductivity sensor 140 is inserted into an annular insertion portion 19 e formed on the back surface of the bottom wall portion 19 cn of the outer tub 19. Further, on the back surface of the bottom wall portion 19cn, a connection hole 19f is formed at a position corresponding to the screw insertion hole 141f1 of the attachment portion 141f formed in the electrical conductivity sensor 140, and the screw 150 is inserted into the screw insertion hole 141f1. The electrical conductivity sensor 140 is fixed to the lower portion of the outer tub 19 by being screwed into the connection hole 19f. At this time, the annular portion 141g is inserted into the insertion portion 19e after the insertion portion 19e is filled with an adhesive seal member. In addition, you may comprise by filling the member which has sealing property in the back part of the electrode support part 141a from which the connector connection part 142c of electrode 142A (142B) protrudes.

Therefore, the surface from the peripheral wall portion 19dn of the outer tub 19 through the groove portion 141d of the electrical conductivity sensor 140 to the bottom wall portion 19cn of the outer tub 19 is configured to be a substantially continuous surface. For example, part of the rinse water discharged from the through-hole 181 of the inner tub 18 to the outer tub 19 in the dehydration process during the washing operation flows down along the peripheral wall portion 19dn of the outer tub 19, and the cutout portion 19d1 is electrically conductive. It flows through the groove 41d of the degree sensor 140 and the bottom surface 19c2 of the outer tub 19.
The electrode 142B is also fixed to the outer tub 19 in the same manner.

FIG. 13 is a functional diagram of the electrical conductivity sensor.
The pair of electrodes 142A and 142B is connected to the coil 148a, forms a resonance circuit 148, and is immersed in washing water. The coil 148a is magnetically coupled to the coil 149a, and the coil 149a is connected to the oscillation circuit 149. The pair of electrodes 142A and 142B, the coil 148a, the coil 149a, and the oscillation circuit 149 form the electrical conductivity sensor 140. The oscillation circuit 49 transmits a signal corresponding to the electrical conductivity to the control device 1110.

FIG. 14 is a diagram showing a functional configuration of a control device of the vertical washing and drying machine.
As shown in FIG. 14, the vertical laundry dryer W <b> 1 includes a control device (control means) 1110. The control device (control means: microcomputer) 1110 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a ROM (Read Only Memory) storing a program, a RAM (Random Access Memory), an input / output circuit, and the like. The control device 1110 executes functions such as an operation pattern database 1111, a process control unit 1112, a rotation speed calculation unit 1113, a clothing weight calculation unit 1114, and an operation information recording unit 1115.

  The control device 1110 has a function of calling a driving pattern corresponding to a driving course input from the operation button 17a and starting washing or / and drying. The control device 1110 drives the drive circuit based on signals input from various sensors 182 such as the electrical conductivity sensor 140 (see FIG. 9). Moreover, the control apparatus 1110 displays the present driving | running state etc. on the indicator 17b.

  The process control unit 1112 has a function of operation-controlling each process of the washing process, the rinsing process, the dehydration process, the tank washing process, and the drying process based on the operation pattern called from the operation pattern database 1111. The process control unit 1112 controls the operation of each process based on the detection values of various sensors 130 such as a water level sensor, a temperature sensor, a vibration sensor, and a water quality sensor. In each process, the process control unit 1112 includes a water supply unit 112A (water supply electromagnetic valves 112a to 112d, a switching electromagnetic valve 112e), a drain valve 114, a motor 110a, a clutch mechanism 110b, a heater 122, and a fan via a drive circuit 1116, respectively. 121, a function of driving and controlling the circulation pump 117.

  The rotation speed calculation unit 1113 has a function of calculating the rotation speed of the motor 110a based on the detection value from the rotation detection device 128 that detects the rotation of the motor 110a.

  The clothing weight calculation unit 1114 has a function of calculating the weight of the clothing in the inner tub 18 based on the rotation speed calculated by the rotation speed calculation unit 1113 and the detection value of the motor current detection device 129. Since the load for rotating the inner tub 18 increases due to the increase in the weight of clothing and a large amount of motor current flows through the motor 110a, the clothing weight detection unit 1114 depends on the motor current and the rotation speed of the motor 110a. The weight of clothing can be calculated.

  The operation information recording unit 1115 counts the total number of operations in the vertical washer / dryer W1, and records the presence / absence of an error, the content of the error, the operation mode, and the like during each operation. The information recorded by the operation information recording unit 1115 includes the presence or absence of execution of the tank cleaning process.

  Next, the operation | movement at the time of the tank washing | cleaning process execution in vertical type washing dryer W1 is demonstrated with reference to FIGS. FIG. 15 is a schematic diagram showing a path from a water supply unit of a washing machine (washing / drying machine) to the washing machine (washing / drying machine), FIG. 16 is a process diagram illustrating an operation process of the washing machine (washing / drying machine), and FIG. These are the schematic diagrams which show the flow of the water at the time of the tank washing | cleaning of a washing machine (washing dryer).

  FIG. 16 is a process diagram for explaining the operation steps of washing → rinsing → tank washing → dehydration → tank washing → (drying) when automatic tank washing is performed. When automatic tank cleaning is not performed, only the operation steps of washing → rinsing → dehydration → (drying) excluding the shaded portion in FIG. 16 are performed.

As shown in FIG. 15, in the vertical washer / dryer W1, when the outer tank water supply electromagnetic valve 112d (main) in the water supply unit 112A is opened, tap water is injected into the outer tank 19 through the water injection hose 111b. Is done. When the detergent water supply electromagnetic valve 112a (detergent) is opened, tap water is supplied into the outer tub 19 through the hose 112i, the charging device 111, and the charging hose 111a. When the finishing agent / tank washing water supply solenoid valve 112b (finishing agent / tank washing) and the switching solenoid valve 112e (switching) are opened, the tap water is supplied to the outer tank 19 via the hose 112j, the charging device 111, and the charging hose 111a. Supplied in. Further, when the finishing agent / bath cleaning water supply electromagnetic valve 112b is opened, tap water is supplied to the water channel member 150 via the cleaning hose 111c. When the cooling water supply electromagnetic valve 112c (cooling) is opened, tap water is supplied to a water cooling / dehumidifying mechanism (not shown) in the drying duct 120 via a hose (not shown).
As described above, the bath water from the water suction hose connection port 15 pumped up by the bath water pump 112f is supplied into the outer tub 19 (see FIG. 2) from the water injection hose 111b.

  As shown in FIG. 16, in the cloth amount sensing step (S11), the process control unit 1112 rotates the inner tub 18, and the garment weight calculation unit 1114 calculates the cloth amount for the garment before water injection.

In the water supply / detergent charging step (S12), the process control unit 1112 opens the outer tank water supply electromagnetic valve 112d, and tap water enters the outer tank 19 from between the outer tank 19 and the inner tank 18 via the water injection hose 111b. Add water. The process control unit 1112 closes after a predetermined time has elapsed since the outer tank water supply electromagnetic valve 112d is opened. This is an operation in which air is contained in the water injection hose 111 b connected to the water supply hose connection port 14, and the air is discharged into the outer tub 19.
In addition, the rotational speed of the inner tank 18 at this time is 70 rpm.

  Thereafter, the process control unit 1112 opens the detergent water supply electromagnetic valve 112a and supplies tap water to a detergent charging chamber (not shown) of the charging device 111. The tap water poured into the detergent charging chamber is poured into the outer tub 19 together with the poured detergent. Further, the process control unit 1112 closes the detergent water supply electromagnetic valve 112a after a predetermined time has elapsed since the detergent water supply electromagnetic valve 112a is opened (or after reaching a predetermined water level).

  In the detergent combing step (S13), the process control unit 1112 drives the circulation pump 117 (or the inner tub 18 or the rotary blade 8a) to dissolve the detergent and generate a highly concentrated detergent solution.

In the rotary water supply step (S14), the process control unit 1112 opens the outer tank water supply electromagnetic valve 112d to supply water to the outer tank, and drives the circulation pump 117 while rotating the inner tank 18 and / or the rotary blade 18b. Then, a high concentration detergent solution is sprayed from the lint removal device to the clothes in the inner tub 18. At this time, the finishing agent / tank washing water supply electromagnetic valve 112b may be opened to wash the outer tank 19 and the inner tank 18.
In addition, the rotation speed of the inner tank 18 at this time is 35 rpm.

In the pre-washing step (S15), the clothes are washed with a high-concentration detergent solution.
In the cloth quality sensing step (S16), first, the clothing weight calculation unit 1114 calculates the weight of the clothing containing water. Then, from the weight of the clothes not including water calculated in the cloth amount sensing step (S11) and the weight of the clothes including water calculated in the cloth quality sensing step (S16), the cloth quality (water absorption) of the clothes is calculated. to decide. The following steps are controlled according to the determined cloth quality of the garment.

  In the washing / water supply step (S17), the process control unit 1112 matches the weight of the clothing calculated in the fabric amount sensing step (S11) and the clothing fabric quality determined in the fabric quality sensing step (S16). The valve 112d is opened to supply water into the outer tank 19 (or the inner tank 18).

  In the main washing step (S18), the process control unit 1112 rotates the rotating blades 18b (or alternately rotates in the forward and reverse directions) to wash the clothes. At this time, the circulation pump 117 may be driven to spray the detergent solution on the clothes. Although not shown, in the main washing step (S18), the process control unit 1112 also performs an operation of rotating the rotary blades 18b alternately in the forward and reverse directions to loosen the clothes. Further, the process control unit 1112 repeats the main washing process and the loosening process several times. When the main washing is completed, the process control unit 1112 monitors the unbalanced state of the clothing and determines whether or not to shift to dehydration.

  In the draining step (S19), the process control unit 1112 opens the drain valve 114 and drains the wash water in the outer tub 19.

  In the dehydration step (S110), after the drainage is completed, the process control unit 1112 rotates the inner tub 18 to dehydrate water (wash water) contained in the clothing.

In the rotary shower process (S111), the process control unit 1112 closes the drain valve 114, opens the outer tank water supply electromagnetic valve 112d, and supplies rinse water to the inner tank 18. Then, rinsing water is sprayed on the clothes in the inner tub 18 while rotating the inner tub 18.
In addition, the rotation speed of the inner tank 18 at this time is 35 rpm.

  In the dehydration step (S112), the process control unit 1112 rotates the inner tub 18 and stops the circulation pump 117 to dehydrate the rinse water from the clothes.

In the rotary shower step (S113), the process control unit 1112 opens the outer tank water supply electromagnetic valve 112d to rotate the inner tank 18, and sprays rinse water on the clothes in the inner tank 18.
In addition, the rotation speed of the inner tank 18 at this time is 35 rpm.

  In the draining step (S114), the process control unit 1112 stops the inner tank 18 and the circulation pump 117, opens the drain valve 114, and drains the rinsing water in the outer tank 19.

  In the dehydration step (S115), after drainage is completed, the process control unit 1112 rotates the inner tub 18 to dehydrate water (rinse water) contained in the clothes.

In the rinsing water supply step (S116), the process control unit 1112 closes the drain valve 114, opens the finishing agent / bath washing water supply electromagnetic valve 112b, and rotates the inner tub 18 while rotating the inner tub 18 and the inner tub 18. Wash. After a predetermined time has elapsed (or after reaching a predetermined water level), the switching electromagnetic valve 112e is opened for a predetermined time, and rinse water containing a finishing agent is supplied to the inner tank 18. In the rinse water supply step (S116), the process control unit 1112 opens the outer tank water supply electromagnetic valve 112d to supply rinse water to the outer tank 19 (or the inner tank 18).
In addition, the rotation speed of the inner tank 18 at this time is 35 rpm.

  In the loosening step (S117), the process control unit 1112 performs an operation of loosening clothes by alternately rotating the rotary blades 18b in the forward and reverse directions.

  In the stirring step (S118), the process control unit 1112 rotates the inner tub 18 while rinsing water is accumulated in the outer tub 19, and rinses the clothes while stirring them.

In the tank cleaning step (S119), the washing / dehydrating tank 8 is rotated by the process control unit 1112 to clean the upper and lower surfaces of the bottom surface of the inner tub 18 and the bottom surface of the rotating blade 18b.
In addition, the rotational speed of the inner tank 18 at this time is 80-130 rpm so that it may mention later.

Next, operation | movement of tank cleaning process S119 is further demonstrated using FIG.
FIG. 18 is a flowchart of the tank washing process of the vertical washer / dryer.
The process control unit 1112 determines whether or not the rinse water is equal to or lower than the predetermined water level s (S161). If the water level is higher than the predetermined water level s (S161: No), the drain valve 114 is opened to drain the rinse water. (S162). For example, the predetermined water level s is higher than the bottom surface of the inner tank 18 and the bottom surface of the rotary blade 18b. If it becomes below the predetermined water level s (S161: Yes), the process control part 1112 will close the drain valve 114 (S163).

  Thereafter, the process control unit 1112 causes the inner tub 18 to rotate at a rotational speed (for example, 80 to 130 rpm) faster than the rotational speed (35 rpm) in the rotating water supply process (S14) and the rotating shower process (S111, S113). The rotor blade 18b is rotated together with the rotor blade 18b (step S164). In addition, as a pattern for rotating the inner tub 18, in addition to rotating in the forward direction (one direction), the inner tank 18 may be rotated in the reverse direction, or may be rotated alternately in the forward direction and the reverse direction.

  The process control unit 1112 determines whether a predetermined time t (for example, 90 to 120 seconds) has elapsed (S165), and rotates the inner tank 18 until the predetermined time t has elapsed (S165: No). If the predetermined time t has elapsed (S165: Yes), the process control unit 1112 stops the inner tank 18 (S166). Although the inner tank 18 is stopped in step S166, it is not always necessary to stop the inner tank 18, and the process may be shifted to the dehydration process while being rotated.

  Further, in this tank washing step (S119), the drain valve 114 is opened, the rinse water used in the rinse 2 (final rinse) is drained once, and then the drain valve 114 is closed, and the finishing agent / tank washing water supply You may perform, after opening the electromagnetic valve 112b and supplying water to a predetermined | prescribed water level, rotating the inner tank 18. FIG.

  In the tank cleaning step (S119), the inner tank 18 is rotated in a state where rinse water (or tap water) is accumulated at the bottom of the outer tank 19, so that it adheres to the bottom surface outside the inner tank 18 and the bottom surface of the rotary blade 18b. It is possible to remove the dirt and dust, and to prevent the dirt and dust from adhering to the bottom surface outside the inner tank 18 and the bottom surface of the rotary blade 18b.

  When the tank cleaning step (S119) is completed, the process control unit 1112 monitors the clothing imbalance state and determines whether or not to proceed to final dehydration.

  In the draining step (S120), the process control unit 1112 opens the drain valve 114 and drains the rinsing water in the outer tub 19.

In the dehydration / tank washing shower process (S121), after the drainage is completed, the process control unit 1112 rotates the inner tank 18 at high speed to remove moisture contained in the clothes. In this dehydration / tank washing shower step (S121), the tank washing in which water is jetted from a water spout, which will be described later, in the middle of increasing the rotation speed of the inner tank 18 for dehydration (when the predetermined rotation speed is reached). The operation of a shower is taken in, and the operation will be further described with reference to FIG.
In addition, the rotational speed of the inner tank 18 at this time is 400-600 rpm so that it may mention later.

FIG. 19 is a flowchart showing the tank washing shower operation in the dehydration process of the vertical washer / dryer.
The process control part 1112 rotates the inner tank 18 and accelerates it stepwise (S171). Then, the process control unit 1112 determines whether or not the rotation speed is equal to or lower than a predetermined rotation speed n1 (for example, 400 rpm) (S172). The process control unit 1112 accelerates the rotation of the inner tank 18 until the predetermined rotation speed n1 is reached (S172: No). When the process controller 1112 reaches the predetermined rotation speed n1 (S172: Yes), the finishing agent / tank washing water supply electromagnetic valve 112b is opened (S174) while maintaining the predetermined rotation speed n1 (S173), and the water channel member 150 is supplied with cleaning water (tap water). Then, the process control unit 1112 determines whether or not a predetermined time t1 (for example, 30 to 120 seconds) has elapsed (S175). Until a predetermined time t1 (for example, 30 to 120 seconds) elapses (S175: No), the process control unit 1112 supplies water to the water channel member 150 (S175). Here, the water supply path extending in the rotation direction of the inner tub 18 is provided with a plurality of water spouts, which will be described later, and tap water sprayed from the water spouts is applied to the inner wall surface of the outer tub 19 or the outer wall surface of the inner tub 18. As a result, it is difficult for dirt to adhere to the outer tub 19 and the inner tub 18. If the predetermined time t1 has elapsed, the process control unit 1112 closes the finishing agent / tank washing water supply electromagnetic valve 112b (S176), further accelerates the inner tank 18 (S177), continues dehydration, and is included in the clothing. Remove moisture.

  Here, the case where the predetermined rotational speed n1 is maintained has been described, but it is not necessary to be limited to the predetermined rotational speed n1, and a predetermined rotational speed n2 (for example, 600 rpm) is set and the predetermined rotational speed n1 to n2 is being accelerated. Alternatively, the predetermined rotation speed n2 may be held for a predetermined time t2 (for example, 30 to 120 seconds).

  When water is supplied to the water channel member 150, tap water is discharged from the side surface water spout 150b1 of the water channel member 150 as shown in FIG. 17, and the concave portion 19a1 (FIG. ) On the bottom surface 19a2 (FIG. 8) of the inner tub 18 and the outer peripheral edge upper surface 18c1 of the balance ring 18c of the inner tub 18. At this time, since the inner tub 18 is rotating at a high speed, the tap water that has fallen on the outer peripheral edge upper surface 18c1 of the balance ring 18c is caused by the centrifugal force during the rotation of the inner tub 18 to the inner peripheral surface 19s of the outer tub 19. Blowed away. The tap water blown to the inner peripheral surface 19s of the outer tub 19 flows down the inner peripheral surface 19s of the outer tub 19 downward in the vertical direction by the action of gravity. Further, since a plurality of side surface water sprinkling ports 150b1 are formed in the water channel member 150 and blown off by centrifugal force, tap water is sprayed on the entire inner peripheral surface 19s in the upper part of the outer tub 19, and then flows downward. Therefore, tap water flows through the entire inner peripheral surface of the outer tub 19 from the upper part to the lower part. Accordingly, the entire dirt and dust on the inner peripheral surface of the outer tub 19 are removed, and adhesion of dirt and dust can be suppressed.

  As shown in FIG. 17, when tap water is sprinkled from the bottom side sprinkling port 150 a 1 of the water channel member 150, it is sprayed to the outer peripheral surface 18 s of the upper part (balance ring 18 c) of the inner tub 18. The tap water sprayed on the outer peripheral surface 18s flows down the outer peripheral surface 18s of the inner tub 18 downward in the vertical direction by the action of gravity as shown by a thick broken line arrow in FIG. Note that a part of tap water dripped from the side-side water spout 150b1 to the outer peripheral edge upper surface 18c1 also moves the outer peripheral surface 18s of the inner tub 18 downward by the action of gravity, as shown by a thin broken arrow in FIG. run down.

  In this way, by sprinkling tap water from the side surface side water outlet 150b1 and the bottom surface side water outlet 150a1 of the water channel member 150 to the upper portion (outer peripheral edge portion) of the inner tub 18, the inner peripheral surface 19s and the inner The adhesion of dirt and dust to the outer peripheral surface 18s of the tank 18 can be suppressed.

  In addition, when the mode which performs a series of operation | movement from washing to drying is set, drying process S122 is performed after spin-drying | dehydration process S121. In the drying step S122, the process control unit 1112 opens the cooling water supply electromagnetic valve 112c, energizes the heater 122, and drives the fan 121.

  As described above, in the vertical washer / dryer W1, the outer tub cover 19a is provided with the water supply path (water channel member 150) extending in the circumferential direction of the inner tub 18, and the tap water supplied from the water supply unit 112A to this water supply path. A side-side water sprinkling port 150b1 for spraying water on the upper part (outer peripheral edge upper surface 18c1) of the inner tank 18 is provided. According to this, by supplying water to the water channel member 150 when the inner tub 18 is rotated, tap water is blown off to the inner peripheral surface 19 s of the outer tub 19, so that dirt and dust adhering to the inner peripheral surface 19 s of the outer tub 19 are obtained. Can be removed, and the adhesion of dirt and dust can be suppressed. By suppressing the adhesion of dirt and dust in this way, it is possible to suppress the growth of mold and the generation of off-flavors. Furthermore, it is possible to prevent or suppress dust from adhering to the laundry being washed.

<Drum-type washing and drying machine>
Next, the configuration and operation of the drum type washer / dryer will be described with reference to FIGS. Below, it demonstrates on the basis of the direction when the drum type washing-drying machine W2 (W) is seen from the front.
20 is a perspective view showing the external appearance of the drum type washing and drying machine, FIG. 21 is a side view showing the internal structure of the drum type washing and drying machine, and FIG. 22 is a perspective view showing the internal structure of the drum type washing and drying machine. FIG. 23 is a rear view showing the internal structure of the drum-type washing / drying machine. As shown in FIG. 20, the drum-type washing / drying machine W2 is constructed by combining a steel plate and a resin molded product. A housing 21 is provided, and the housing 21 is mounted on a base 21h. The housing 21 includes left and right side plates 21a and 21b (see FIG. 23 for 21b), a front cover 21c, a back cover 21d (see FIG. 21), an upper cover 21e, and a lower front cover 21f. The left and right side plates 21a and 21b are joined by a U-shaped upper reinforcing material (not shown), a front reinforcing material (not shown), and a rear reinforcing material (not shown), and include a base 21h. A box-shaped housing 21 is formed and has sufficient strength as the housing.

  Near the center of the front cover 21c, a door 22 that closes an insertion port for putting in and out clothes (laundry, dry objects) is supported by a hinge provided on the front reinforcing member so as to be opened and closed. . The front cover 21c in the vicinity of the door 22 is provided with a door release button 23 for releasing a door 22 locking mechanism (not shown). When the door release button 23 is pressed, the lock mechanism (not shown) is released and the door 22 is opened. When the door 22 is pressed against the front cover 21c, the door 22 is locked and closed. A front reinforcing material (not shown) has a circular opening for putting clothes in and out concentrically with an opening 220b (see FIG. 22) of an outer tub 220 (see FIG. 24) described later.

  An operation panel 24 having a power switch 24a, operation switches 24b and 24c, a display 24d, and the like is provided at the upper center of the housing 21. The operation panel 24 is electrically connected to a control device 260 (see FIGS. 21 and 22) provided at the lower portion of the housing 21. Further, on the left side of the operation panel 24, there is provided a drawer type tray 25 into which a detergent, a softening agent, or the like is charged.

  Further, a pull-out drying filter 26 is provided on the right side of the operation panel 24. The dry filter 26 includes a mesh type filter 26a (see FIG. 22) so that lint and the like are removed. The drying filter 26 is cleaned by pulling out the drying filter 26 and taking out the mesh filter 26a (see FIG. 22). Further, the upper surface cover 21e is provided with a water supply hose connection port 27a from a water tap and a water absorption hose connection port 27b for remaining hot water in the bath.

  As shown in FIG. 21, the drum-type washing and drying machine W <b> 2 is provided with an inner tub (rotating drum) 210 as a cylindrical inner tub that is rotatably supported in the housing 21. The rotation center O1 of the inner tub 210 is inclined so that the opening 210a side becomes higher. The inner tub 210 has an opening 210a for putting clothes in and out on the front side (near side) end face, and a plurality of through holes 210h (see FIG. 30) for water flow and ventilation on the peripheral wall. Yes.

  A balance ring (also referred to as a fluid balancer) 210b integrated with the inner tank 210 is provided at the edge of the opening 210a. The balance ring 210b is configured by enclosing a fluid having a large specific gravity therein. When the eccentricity occurs due to the laundry being biased when the inner tub 210 rotates, the balance ring 210b is eccentric due to the movement of the fluid in the balance ring 210b. Has the function of canceling and maintaining the balance of rotation.

  A plurality of lifters 210 c extending in the depth direction (axial direction) are provided on the inner peripheral wall of the inner tank 210. When the inner tub 210 rotates during washing and drying, clothes and the like are lifted along the peripheral wall by the lifter 210c and centrifugal force, and are repeatedly moved by gravity.

  The drum-type washing / drying machine W2 includes an inner tub 210 coaxially and includes a cylindrical outer tub 220 having an open front surface. The outer tank 220 includes an outer tank body 221 and an outer tank cover 222. An opening 221s (see FIG. 30) on the front surface of the outer tub body 221 is provided with an outer tub cover 222 made of synthetic resin, which allows water to be stored in the outer tub 220. In the center of the front side (front side) of the outer tub cover 222, an opening 222a (see FIG. 27) for taking in and out clothes and the like is formed. The opening 222a and the opening provided in the front reinforcing member are connected by a rubber packing 223 (see FIG. 28). The packing 223 plays a role of maintaining the water tightness between the outer tub 220 and the door 22. This prevents water leakage during washing, rinsing and dehydration. A drain port 220c is provided at the bottom bottom of the outer tank 220, and a drain hose 28 is connected thereto.

  The tip of the drain hose 28 is connected to a drain hole 2101 provided in the floor G. A drainage valve V is provided in the middle of the drainage hose 28. Water is stored in the outer tub 220 by closing the drainage valve V and supplying water, and opening the drainage valve V in the outer tub 220 is provided. Water is discharged outside the aircraft.

  Further, in the drum type washing and drying machine W2, a motor M for rotationally driving the inner tub 210 is attached to the center of the back surface (bottom surface center) of the outer tub 220. The rotating shaft m1 of the motor M passes through the outer tub 220 and is coupled to a metal flange 210e provided on the back surface of the inner tub 210. Further, the lower part of the outer tub 220 is supported by a plurality of suspensions 29 (consisting of coil springs and dampers) whose lower side is fixed to the base 21h (FIG. 20). The upper part of the outer tub 220 is supported by an auxiliary spring (not shown) attached to the upper reinforcing member, and is configured to prevent the outer tub 220 from falling in the front-rear direction.

  The drum-type washing / drying machine W <b> 2 includes an air duct (air passage) 230 that passes through the back inner side and the upper inner surface of the housing 21. The blower duct 230 includes a duct 232 that extends in the vertical direction on the back side of the outer tub 220, and a duct 233 that extends on the upper surface side of the outer tub 220 from the rear to the front.

  An overflow hose 215 connected to join the drain hose 28 downstream of the drain valve V is connected to the lower portion of the duct 232. The upstream end of the hose 215 is connected so as to be positioned above the bellows 231 described later.

  A blower fan unit 240 including a fan 241 and a heater 242 is provided on the downstream side of the duct 233.

  Although not shown, a stainless steel plate (heat exchange plate) having a large number of protrusions is disposed in the duct 232 as a water-cooled dehumidifying mechanism, for example. A water supply pipe (not shown) for flowing cooling water along is connected. The cooling water supply electromagnetic valve 212d (FIG. 24), which will be described later, is opened so that the water-cooled dehumidification functions.

  The lower part of the air duct 230 (duct 232) is connected substantially horizontally to the outlet 220d provided at the lower back of the outer tub 220 by a bellows 231 having a flexible structure.

  As shown in FIG. 22, the fan 241 is a so-called turbo fan or the like, and an impeller (not shown) composed of a plurality of blades is accommodated in the fan case 241a. A scroll-like (spiral) flow path (not shown) is formed around the periphery. Further, on the outer surface of the fan case 241a, an intake hole (not shown) for sucking air is formed on one surface side of the rotation center of the impeller, and an electric motor M1 for rotating the impeller at high speed is attached on the other surface side. ing.

  The heater 242 (see FIG. 21) is configured by a PTC (Positive Temperature Coefficient) heater or the like, and is provided on the downstream side of the scroll-shaped flow path in the fan case 241a. The fan case 241a on the downstream side of the heater 242 has a discharge port (not shown) through which hot air (drying air) generated by the heater 242 is discharged.

  The duct 233 (see FIG. 21) includes a filter duct 233a, and the front surface of the filter duct 233a has an opening, into which the pull-out dry filter 26 (see FIG. 22) is inserted. The downstream side of the drying filter 26 is connected to an intake hole (not shown) of the blower fan unit 240, and a hot air duct 235, a bellows 236, and a hot air blowing nozzle 237 are connected to an outlet (not shown) of the blower fan unit 240. Connected in order.

  The drum type washing and drying machine W2 includes a circulation pump P and circulation hoses H1 and H2, and has a function of circulating the stored water in the outer tub 220. The circulation pump P is disposed below the outer tub 220, its introduction port is connected to the bottom of the outer tub 220 via the circulation hose H1, and the outlet port is connected to the side of the outer tub cover 222 via the circulation hose H2. It is connected. Thereby, the water stored in the outer tub 220 is pumped up by the circulation pump P, and is sprinkled on the upper part of the laundry in the outer tub 220.

  As shown in FIG. 23, a water supply unit 212 including five water supply electromagnetic valves T, a bath water supply pump U, a water supply path unit (not shown), and the like is provided behind the tray 25 (see FIG. 20). ing. The five water supply electromagnetic valves T include a detergent water supply electromagnetic valve 212a, a finishing agent water supply electromagnetic valve 212b, an outer tank water supply electromagnetic valve 212c, a cooling water supply electromagnetic valve 212d, and a tank cleaning water supply electromagnetic valve 212e. Yes.

  The detergent water supply electromagnetic valve 212a supplies tap water from the water supply hose connection port 27a to a detergent charging chamber (not shown) of the tray 25 (see FIG. 22) through a water supply path (not shown). The tap water poured into the detergent charging chamber is poured into the outer tub 220 through a charging hose (not shown) together with the charged detergent.

  The finishing agent water supply electromagnetic valve 212b supplies tap water from the water supply hose connection port 27a to a finishing agent charging chamber (not shown) of the tray 25 (see FIG. 22) through a water supply path (not shown). The tap water poured into the finishing agent charging chamber is poured into the outer tub 220 through a charging hose (not shown) together with the charged finishing agent.

The outer tank water supply electromagnetic valve 212c supplies tap water from the water supply hose connection port 27a into the outer tank 220 from a water injection hose (not shown) through a water supply path (not shown).
The cooling water supply electromagnetic valve 212d supplies tap water from the water supply hose connection port 27a to a water cooling / dehumidification mechanism (not shown) of the air duct 230 through a water supply path (not shown).

  The tank cleaning water supply electromagnetic valve 212e passes the tap water from the water supply hose connection port 27a through a water supply path (not shown) and the outer tank cover side nozzle 250A (FIG. 27) which will be described later via the cleaning water supply hose 255 (FIG. 24). : Water channel member).

  In addition, the bath water from the water absorption hose connection port 27b pumped up by the bath water feed pump U is supplied into the outer tank 220 from a water injection hose (not shown) through a water supply path (not shown).

FIG. 24 is a perspective view showing a connection state of the water supply solenoid valve, the cleaning water supply hose, and the drain hose.
As shown in FIG. 24, the five water supply solenoid valves T are arranged on the upper left side of the outer tub 220. In addition, about the water supply electromagnetic valve T of FIG. 24, the state which extracted only the 5 water supply electromagnetic valve T from the water supply unit 212 of FIG. 23 is shown.

  A branch joint 254 is connected to a discharge port (not shown) of the tank cleaning water supply electromagnetic valve 212e via a seal member (such as an O-ring) (not shown), and one end of the cleaning water supply hose 255 is connected to the tip of the branch joint 254. A drain hose 256 is connected to the side surface (circumferential surface) of the branch joint 254.

  The cleaning water supply hose 255 extends forward along the outer tank body 221, extends so as to be bent in the center in the left-right direction at the position of the outer tank cover 222, and is provided at the apex (center) of the outer tank cover 222. Further, it is connected to a water supply port 250f1 (see FIG. 27) described later via a seal member (not shown).

  The water drain hose 256 extends downward from the branch joint 254 and bends backward, and is connected to an outer tank water supply joint 224 provided at the rear portion of the outer surface of the outer tank 220 (outer tank body 221). The outer tank water supply joint 224 is connected to a case communicating with a detergent charging chamber (not shown) and a finishing agent charging chamber (not shown) of the tray 25 (FIG. 20) via a bellows hose (not shown). ing.

FIG. 25 is a longitudinal sectional view of the outer tank water supply joint.
As shown in FIG. 25, the outer tank water supply joint 224 is configured by assembling a joint 224a connected to the outer tank body 221 and a joint 224b connected to the bellows hose in an L shape in a side sectional view. Yes. A rubber check valve 224c is provided at the boundary between the flow path constituted by the joint 224a and the flow path constituted by the joint 224b. This check valve 224c only allows fluid to flow from the joint 224b side flow path to the joint 224a side flow path, and is generated in the outer tub 220 (FIG. 21) during the drying process described later. This prevents the steam from flowing from the joint 224a to the joint 224b.

  Further, the drain hose 256 is connected to the upper part of the joint 224a. A cylindrical hose connection portion 224a1 to which the drain hose 256 is connected is formed in the joint 224a. A drain hole 224a2 communicating with the flow path inside the joint 224a is formed at the bottom of the hose connection portion 224a1. The drain hole 224a2 corresponds to an outlet to which the drain hose 256 is connected. The size of the drain hole 224a2 will be described later.

FIG. 26 is a side view showing the positional relationship between the washing water supply hose and the drain hose.
As shown in FIG. 26, the cleaning water supply hose 255 and the drainage hose 256 are located above the drainage hose 256 in the vertical direction (vertical direction). As a result, residual water in the cleaning water supply hose 255 is discharged into the outer tank 220 through the drainage hose 256, thereby preventing the cleaning water supply hose 255 from being blocked due to freezing of residual water.

  That is, the drain hose 256 is not provided, and the tank cleaning water supply electromagnetic valve 212e (FIG. 23) and the outer tank cover side nozzle 250A (FIG. 27) described later are directly connected via the cleaning water supply hose 255. When the cleaning water is supplied from the outer tank cover side nozzle 250A and the tank cleaning water supply electromagnetic valve 212e is closed, the flow of the cleaning water in the outer tank cover side nozzle 250A and the cleaning water supply hose 255 stops. The washing water is not discharged from the water spout 250b2 (FIG. 29) of the outer tank cover side nozzle 250A. Therefore, in the present embodiment, the drainage hose 256 is branched from the flush water supply hose 255, and the flush water supply hose 255 is disposed above the drainage hose 256 in the vertical direction, thereby washing water. It becomes possible to prevent the washing water from remaining in the supply hose 255.

FIG. 27 is a plan view showing the arrangement of the outer tub cover side nozzles of the drum type washing and drying machine.
As shown in FIG. 27, on the front side of the outer tub cover 222, an outer tub cover side nozzle 250A for spraying tap water (cleaning water) for basin cleaning is provided. The outer tank cover-side nozzle 250 </ b> A is formed of a synthetic resin or the like, has a substantially arcuate shape (arc shape), and is provided in the upper part of the outer tank cover 222. The outer tank cover side nozzle 250A is formed with a length of about one quarter of the circumference of the outer tank cover 222, and extends from the center to the left and right with the same length. In addition, a water supply port 250f1 to which a cleaning water supply hose 255 (see FIG. 26) is connected is formed in the central portion of the outer tank cover side nozzle 250A in the circumferential direction, and penetrates the outer tank cover 222 to pass through the outer tank cover. It protrudes outside 222. A seal member (not shown) such as an O-ring is provided at the boundary between the outer tub cover 222 and the water supply port 250f1 so that water does not leak.

28 is a cross-sectional view taken along line AA in FIG.
As shown in FIG. 28, the shape of the outer tank cover 222 to which the outer tank cover side nozzle 250A is attached is a large diameter portion 222b connected to the opening 221s (see FIG. 30) of the outer tank main body 221 (see FIG. 30). The large-diameter portion 222b has an inclined portion 222c that is reduced in diameter toward the front side (front), and a front surface portion 222d that extends in a substantially vertical direction with respect to the inclined portion 222c. Further, a convex portion 222e to which the packing 223 is attached is formed on the front surface portion 222d so as to protrude forward. The outer tank cover side nozzle 250 </ b> A is disposed at the front end of the large diameter portion 222 b of the outer tank cover 222.

FIG. 29 shows a single unit of the outer tank cover side nozzle, where (a) is a front view, (b) is a side view, (c) is a top view, and (d) is a bottom view.
As shown in FIG. 29 (a), a plurality (15 in this embodiment) of water spray ports 250b2 are formed on the front surface 50d of the outer tank cover side nozzle 250A at intervals in the circumferential direction. Moreover, the hole diameter (diameter) of the water spout 250b2 is formed to be 1.2 mm, for example. The number, position, and hole diameter of the water spout 250b2 are not limited to the present embodiment, and can be changed as appropriate.

  As shown in FIGS. 29B and 29C, a plurality of mounting portions 251A are formed on the upper surface 250e of the outer tub cover side nozzle 250A so as to protrude rearward from the upper surface 250e at intervals in the circumferential direction. ing. The mounting portion 251A includes a rectangular piece 251a, and a screw insertion hole 251b is formed in the piece 251a. Each attachment portion 251A is formed so as to be flush with the upper surface 250e, and a screw (not shown) is inserted into the insertion hole 251b and is screwed to the inner wall surface 222b1 (FIG. 25) of the outer tub cover 222. It has become.

  As shown in FIG. 29 (d), a water spray port 250a2 is formed at a position corresponding to the water supply port 250f1 (FIG. 29 (c)) on the bottom surface 250f of the outer tank cover side nozzle 250A. In the present embodiment, only one water spout 250a2 is provided, but it may be provided at a plurality of locations.

  The cross-sectional area (flow-path cross-sectional area) of the drain hole 224a2 (FIG. 25) is the total cross-sectional area (total flow-path cut-off) of the 15 water spouts 250b2 and the one water spout 250a2 of the outer tank cover side nozzle 250A. It is preferably set to 10% (10%) with respect to (area). By setting to such a ratio, the water draining function can be sufficiently exhibited. In addition, for the purpose of suppressing the flow rate on the outer tank cover side nozzle 250A side, the cross-sectional area of the drain hole 224a2 is smaller than 10% of the total cross-sectional area of the sprinkler holes 250a2 and 250b2, and The number and the hole diameter may be set.

FIG. 30 is an enlarged cross-sectional view showing the flow of water by the outer tank cover side nozzle.
As shown in FIG. 30, the outer tank cover side nozzle 250 </ b> A is disposed between the outer tank cover 222 (outer tank 220) and the side surface (circumferential surface) of the inner tank 210. More specifically, the inner tank 210 has a throttle part 210d having a reduced diameter at the front end, and the outer tank cover side nozzle 250A is positioned between the large diameter part 222b of the outer tank cover 222 and the throttle part 210d. doing. A balance ring 210b is attached to the inner peripheral edge of the throttle portion 210d.

  In the drum type washing / drying machine W2 provided with the outer tub cover side nozzle 250A in this way, as shown by the solid line arrow R1 in FIG. 30, the washing water is discharged forward from the water spray port 250b2, and the outer tub cover 222 is inclined. It hits the inner wall surface 222c1 of the portion 222c and flows downward along the inner wall surface 222c1.

  More specifically, the cleaning water discharged from the sprinkling port 250b2 is discharged linearly, hits the inner wall surface 222c1, and after hitting, spreads radially around the position. Then, the washing water sprayed on the inner wall surface 222c1 flows down the inner wall surface 222c1 of the inclined portion 222c of the outer tank cover 222 and the inner wall surface 222d1 of the front surface portion 222d by the action of gravity.

  Further, the washing water discharged from the water sprinkling port 250a2 hits the throttle portion 210d of the inner tank 210 as indicated by the solid line arrow R2. The washing water sprayed on the throttle part 210d is scattered on the inner wall surface 222b1 of the large-diameter part 222b of the outer tank cover 222 (outer tank 220) by the centrifugal force when the inner tank 210 rotates, and behind the throttle part 210d. The inner tub cover 222 and the outer tub 210 s of the inner tub 210 are scattered. In addition, although there is one sprinkling port 250a2 sprayed to the inner tank 210 side, it is possible to spray the entire peripheral surface of the throttle portion 210d of the inner tank 210 by sprinkling water while rotating the inner tank 210. become. In this way, the amount of water used can be reduced by blowing away tap water by centrifugal force and washing the inside of the outer tub cover 222 as compared with the case where the tap water is blown vigorously and washed.

FIG. 31 is a plan view schematically showing a cleaning range by the outer tank cover side nozzle.
As shown in FIG. 31, when the cleaning water discharged from the respective water sprinkling ports 250b2 (see FIG. 29) of the outer tank cover side nozzle 250A to the front (inner wall surface 222b1) of the outer tank cover 222 is radially scattered, In the horizontal direction perpendicular to the vertical direction (gravity direction), the washing water from the adjacent water spouts 250b2 (FIG. 29) overlap each other. Thereby, when the cleaning water flows down, it is possible to eliminate the areas where the cleaning water does not flow in the inner wall surfaces 222c1 and 222d1 of the outer tank cover 222, and it is possible to prevent the dirt from remaining in the form of vertical stripes. .

  The number, the hole diameter, and the position of the water spray port 250b2 of the outer tank cover side nozzle 250A described above may be set so that the cleaning water flows over the entire inner surface of the outer tank cover 222 as described with reference to FIG. For example, the number, hole diameter, and position can be changed as appropriate.

In addition, the drum type washing and drying machine W2 is provided with an electrical conductivity sensor as in the vertical type washing and drying machine W1 (FIG. 1).
FIG. 32 is a perspective view showing an outer tub in a drum type washing and drying machine.
As shown in FIG. 32, a substantially concave recess 454 is provided on the inner bottom 456 vertically below the outer peripheral wall 451 of the outer tub 220 so as to extend in the axial direction. The hollow portion 454 is a substantially concave groove-shaped portion formed in the center portion of the inner bottom portion 456 of the outer peripheral wall 451 in the outer tub 220 in the front-rear direction, and is a portion of the lower end portion 455a of the groove 455. It is formed below. A first inclined surface 457, a sensor installation hole 457a, a second inclined surface 458, a rib 459, a drainage port 220c, and an electrical conductivity sensor 440, which will be described later, are provided in the recessed portion 454, respectively.

FIG. 33 is an enlarged perspective view of the main part of the inner bottom part of the drum type washing and drying machine.
As shown in FIG. 33, the bottom surface 454 a of the recess 454 is formed on the second inclined surface 458, which is formed on the bottom left side of the second inclined surface 458 occupying most of the bottom surface 454 a and the second inclined surface 458. A first inclined surface 457 having a steeper slope, a sensor installation hole 457a formed in the first inclined surface 457 and mounted with the electrical conductivity sensor 440, and formed on the right rear side of the second inclined surface 458. A drain outlet 220c is formed.

  The first inclined surface 457 (inclined surface) is disposed below the lower end portion 455a of the groove 455 and is formed at a corner portion on the bottom wall 452 side of the recessed portion 454. As shown in FIG. 33, the first inclined surface 457 is inclined in the direction (arrow a, b, c direction) descending from the upper end portion of the recess 454 toward the second inclined surface 458 of the bottom surface 454a and the drain port 220c. Is formed. At the center of the first inclined surface 457, an electrical conductivity sensor 440 is placed in the sensor installation hole 457a with the water channel 44a and the side wall 44b aligned with the inclination direction (arrow b direction) of the first inclined surface 457. It is worn.

  For this reason, the liquid dropped from the lower end portion 455a of the groove 455 falls on the electric conductivity sensor 440 and the first inclined surface 457, and then flows toward the second inclined surface 458 and the drain port 220c. It does not remain on the degree sensor 440. Further, the electrical conductivity sensor 440 is provided at a position where the water supplied from the water supply port 42a is first touched. Therefore, the electrical conductivity in water can be measured correctly.

  In addition, since the structure of the electrical conductivity sensor 440 is the same as that of the electrical conductivity sensor 140 of the vertical washer / dryer W1, description thereof will be omitted. The electrical conductivity measured by the electrical conductivity sensor 440 is transmitted to the control device 260 (see FIG. 34).

Next, the operation of the drum type washing / drying machine W2 will be described. First, the overall configuration of the drum-type washing / drying machine W2 will be briefly described.
FIG. 34 is a block diagram showing a drum type washing and drying machine.
As shown in FIG. 34, the control device (control means: microcomputer) 260 includes a CPU, a ROM storing a program, a RAM, an input / output circuit, etc., and an operation button input circuit connected to the various switches 24b and 24c. 262, a water level sensor 263, a temperature sensor 264, a vibration sensor 265, and an electrical conductivity sensor 270, and acquires various information signals in the user's button operation, washing process, and drying process. The temperature sensor 264 includes an outside air temperature sensor that detects the outside air temperature, a temperature sensor that detects the temperature of the drain outlet 220c, and the like.

  Further, the control device 260 rotates the water supply electromagnetic valves 212a to 212e, the bath water supply pump U, the drain valve V, and the motor M via each drive circuit 266 (the rotation speed of the inner tank 210 (FIG. 21)). In addition, the rotational speed of the fan 241 and the energization (ON / OFF) of the heater 242 are controlled. In addition, the control device 260 controls the display 24d, the light emitting diode 267, and the buzzer 268 for notifying the user of the operation state of the drum type washing and drying machine W2.

  In addition, the control device 260 counts the total number of operations in the drum type washing and drying machine W2, and records whether or not an error has occurred during each operation, the details of the error, the operation mode, and the like. These pieces of information include the presence / absence of execution of the tank cleaning process.

  The control device 260 starts when the power switch 24a is pressed and the power is turned on, and executes, for example, the basic program of the washing process and the drying process shown in FIG. Further, part of the electric power from the commercial power source is transformed by a transformer, then converted to a direct current by a power circuit, and the electric power is supplied to an LED (Light Emitting Diode) 267 and the control device 260. In the following, a case where a series of operations from washing to drying is performed will be described with reference to FIGS.

FIG. 35 is an overall process chart showing opening / closing operations of various water supply solenoid valves. In the description of FIG. 35, FIGS. 20 to 34 are appropriately referred to.
As shown in FIG. 35, when performing automatic tank cleaning, the control device 260 performs a washing process (S2100), a rinsing (rinsing 1, rinsing 2) process (S2200), a tank cleaning one process (S2300-1), and dehydration 1. A process (S2400-1), a tank washing | cleaning 2 process (S2300-2), a spin-drying | dehydration 2 process (S2400-2), and a drying process (S2500) are performed in order. When automatic tank cleaning is not performed, the control device 260 removes the shaded portion in FIG. 35, that is, a washing step (S2100), a rinsing step (S2200), and a dehydrating step (S2400-1, S2400-2). ), Only the drying step (S2500) is executed.

  In the cloth amount sensing step (S2100-S1) of the washing step (S2100), the control device 260 rotates the inner tub 210 and calculates the amount of cloth for the clothes before water injection. Note that the weight of the clothes in the inner tub 210 can be calculated based on the rotation speed of the motor M and the current value. Since the load for rotating the inner tub 210 increases due to the increase in the weight of the clothing and a large amount of motor current is required to flow through the motor M, the control device 260 determines the amount of clothing by the motor current and the rotational speed of the motor M. Weight can be calculated. In addition, 25-45 rpm of the tank rotational speed shown to the table | surface of FIG. 35 is a rotational speed at the time of inner tank rotation (except the time of spin-drying | dehydration).

  Next, in the detergent melt water supply step (S2100-S2), the control device 260 opens the detergent water supply electromagnetic valve 212a and supplies tap water to the detergent charging chamber (not shown) of the tray 25. The tap water poured into the tray 25 is poured into the outer tub 220 through the bellows hose (not shown) and the outer tub water supply joint 224 while dissolving the detergent.

  In the rotation water supply process (S2100-S3), the control device 260 drives the circulation pump P while rotating the inner tub 210 while maintaining the opening of the detergent water supply electromagnetic valve 212a, and the wash water (high concentration The detergent solution is circulated and water is supplied to the clothes while spraying the washing water. Here, the inner tank 210 is rotated at a predetermined rotation speed. Moreover, the control apparatus 260 closes the detergent water supply solenoid valve 212a after completion | finish of rotation water supply.

  In the pre-washing step (S2100-S4), the controller 260 washes the clothes with a high concentration detergent solution.

  In the cloth quality sensing step (S2100-S5), the control device 260 calculates the weight of the clothing containing water. Then, the control device 260 determines the cloth quality of the clothes from the weight of the clothes calculated in the cloth amount sensing step (S2100-S1) and the weight of the clothes including water calculated in the cloth quality sensing step (S2100-S5). (Water absorption) is determined. The following steps are executed according to the determined cloth quality of the clothing.

  In the replenishing water process (S2100-S6), the control device 260 matches the weight of the clothing calculated in the cloth amount sensing process (S2100-S1) and the clothing quality determined in the cloth quality sensing process (S2100-S5). Then, the outer tank water supply electromagnetic valve 212 c and the tank cleaning water supply electromagnetic valve 212 e are opened to supply water into the outer tank 220. For example, if the controller 260 has a high water absorption property such as a towel cloth, the washing water is replenished in the replenishing water process. In addition, after the end of water supply, control device 260 closes outer tank water supply electromagnetic valve 212c and tank cleaning water supply electromagnetic valve 212e. In this replenishing water process, by opening the tank cleaning water supply electromagnetic valve 212e, the cleaning water is sprinkled from the outer tank cover side nozzle 250A, and the upper part of the outer tank cover 222 and the inner tank 210 of the inner tank 210 in the previous cleaning process. The detergent component adhering to the front end side surface can be poured.

  In the main washing step (S2100-S7), the control device 260 washes the clothes while rotating the inner tub 210 in both forward and reverse directions. When the main washing is completed, the unbalanced state of the clothing is monitored to determine whether or not to shift to dehydration.

  In the rinsing process in step S2200, one rinsing process and two rinsing processes are executed. That is, in the rinsing 1 draining step (S2200-S8), the control device 260 opens the drain valve V and drains the washing water in the outer tub 220. The end of drainage is determined based on the detection value of the water level sensor.

  In the dehydration step (S2200-S9), after the end of drainage, the control device 260 rotates the inner tub 210 at high speed to dehydrate the washing water contained in the clothes. In addition, the rotational speed of the inner tank 210 at the time of dehydration is set to 1000 rpm or more, for example.

  In the rotary shower process (S2200-S10), the control device 260 closes the drain valve V, opens the outer tank water supply electromagnetic valve 212c, and supplies rinse water to the outer tank 220. Further, while the inner tub 210 is rotated, the circulation pump P is driven to spray the rinse water on the clothes in the inner tub 210.

  In the dehydration step (S2200-S11), the control device 260 stops the circulation pump P while rotating the inner tub 210 at a high speed, and dehydrates the rinse water from the clothes.

  In the rotary shower process (S2200-S12), the control device 260 closes the water valve V, opens the outer tank water supply electromagnetic valve 212c, rotates the inner tank 210, and drives the circulation pump P again. Then, rinse water is sprayed on the clothes in the inner tub 210.

  In the rinsing 2 draining step (S2200-S13), the control device 260 stops the inner tank 210 and the circulation pump P, opens the drain valve V, and drains the rinsing water in the outer tank 220.

  In the dehydration step (S2200-S14), after the end of drainage, the control device 260 rotates the inner tub 210 at high speed to dehydrate water (rinse water) contained in the clothing.

  In the water supply step (S2200-S15), the control device 260 closes the drain valve V, opens the tank cleaning water supply electromagnetic valve 212e, and supplies rinse water to the outer tank 220. The control device 260 closes the tank cleaning water supply electromagnetic valve 212e after the end of water supply. In the water supply process, the tank cleaning water supply electromagnetic valve 212e is opened to supply water, so that dirt attached to the upper part of the outer tank cover 222 and the like can be flowed during the rinsing process.

  In the finishing agent water supply step (S2200-S16), the control device 260 opens the finishing agent water supply electromagnetic valve 212b and supplies the outer tub 220 with rinsing water containing the finishing agent. The control device 260 closes the finishing agent water supply electromagnetic valve 212b after finishing the finishing agent water supply.

  In the rotary water supply / replenishment water process (S2200-S17), the control device 260 opens the outer tank water supply electromagnetic valve 212c and the tank cleaning water supply electromagnetic valve 212e, and supplies rinse water into the outer tank 220. In addition, when clothing with high water absorption is thrown in and the amount of water supply is insufficient, the control apparatus 260 replenishes rinse water. Moreover, the control device 260 rotates the inner tub 210 while rinsing water is accumulated in the outer tub 220 to rinse the clothes. In addition, the rotational speed of the inner tank 210 at this time is set to 35-45 rpm (not shown).

Here, the tank washing | cleaning 1 process (S2300-1) is demonstrated in detail with reference to FIG.
In FIG. 36, the control device 260 rotates the inner tub 210 (right) at a rotational speed higher than the rotational speed (for example, 25 rpm) during the washing process and lower than the rotational speed (for example, 1000 rpm) during the dehydration process. (S2301). For example, it is desirable that the rotation speed be set within a range of 80 to 300 rpm. However, the rotation speed is not particularly limited to the above range, and is not limited to the above range as long as the inside of the washing tub (the inner tub 210 and the outer tub 220) can be sufficiently cleaned. For example, the upper limit can be appropriately changed according to the maximum possible output (maximum load) of the motor M. Moreover, the lower limit of the rotation speed at the time of a dehydration process can be suitably changed according to the shape of the inner tank 210 (whether or not it is a shape in which water is easily rolled up). That is, when it is a shape which can easily wind up water, water can be sufficiently wound up even at a lower rotational speed.

  In the present embodiment, in step S2301, the control device 260 rotates the inner tank 210 clockwise at 100 rpm as the first tank cleaning rotation speed. The tank cleaning process 1 is a provisional cleaning process that mainly removes large dirt at the bottom of the tank. Therefore, rinse water is used instead of fresh water, and the rotation speed of the inner tank 210 is reduced. It is set to. In addition, the water level at this time is the same water level (first tank washing water level) as that obtained after the rotary water supply / replenishment water process (S2200-S17 in FIG. 35). Although it depends on the amount of water, the water level is 11.5 liters (first tank washing water amount) at the maximum. Then, the inner tub 210 is rotated, and the wash water (tap water) stored at the bottom of the outer tub 220 is rolled up, so that the inner left side region and the inner tub of the outer tub 220 on the side where the water is rolled up The left half area of 210 is mainly cleaned. Washing water is sprayed from the through holes 210h formed on the side surface of the inner tank 210 to the side surface (circumferential surface) inside the outer tank 220 for cleaning.

  The control device 260 determines whether or not a predetermined time has elapsed since the inner tub 210 is rotated clockwise (S2302). The predetermined time is not particularly limited, and is set to 60 seconds, for example. Until the predetermined time has elapsed (S2301: No), the control device 260 maintains the rotation of the inner tank 210 (right rotation, 100 rpm) as it is.

  When the predetermined time has elapsed (S2301: Yes), the control device 260 rotates the inner tank 210 counterclockwise at 100 rpm (S2303). As a result, the washing water stored in the outer tub 220 is rolled up in the same manner as in the right rotation, and the right half area inside the outer tub 220 and the right half area of the inner tub 210 are mainly washed. . Thus, by rotating the inner tub 210 clockwise and counterclockwise, it is possible to prevent the occurrence of bias in the area to be cleaned.

  Then, the control device 260 determines whether or not a predetermined time has elapsed since the inner tank 210 is rotated counterclockwise by a timer (not shown) (S2304). The predetermined time is not particularly limited, and is set to 60 seconds, for example, as described above.

Until the predetermined time has elapsed (S2304: No), the control device 260 maintains the rotation of the inner tank 210 (left rotation, 100 rpm) as it is.
Then, when the predetermined time has elapsed (S2304: Yes), the control device 260 keeps the rotation of the inner tub 210 as it is and opens the drain valve V (S2305). Then, the control device 260 proceeds to the dehydration step 1 shown in FIG.
Note that steps S2301 to S2304 in FIG. 36 correspond to the tank cleaning step 1 (S2300-1-S18) in FIG. 35, and step S2305 in FIG. 36 corresponds to the drainage step (S23001-1-S19) in FIG. To do.

Next, the dehydration step 1 (S2400-1) will be described in detail with reference to FIG.
As shown in FIG. 37, when entering the first dehydration step (S 2400-1), the control device 260 opens the drain valve V while maintaining the rotation speed of the inner tank 210. As a result, the used cleaning water in the outer tub 220 used in the tub cleaning step is discharged out of the machine via the drain hose 28.

  By executing the tank cleaning process in this manner, the entire dirt and dust in the washing tub (inner tub 210 and outer tub 220) are removed, and the adhesion of dirt and trash is suppressed during the next operation. Can do.

And the control apparatus 260 judges whether drainage was completed in step S2401 in the state by which the rotational speed of the inner tank 210 was maintained (S2401). Whether or not drainage is completed can be determined based on the detection value of the water level sensor 263.
Until the drainage is completed (S2401: No), the control device 260 continues to drain.
When the drainage is completed (S2401: Yes), the control device 260 increases the rotation speed of the inner tank 210 (S2402). Then, the process proceeds to the tank cleaning step 2 shown in FIG.
Note that steps S2401 and S2402 in FIG. 37 correspond to the dehydration step 1 (S2400-1-S20) in FIG.

Next, the tank cleaning 2 step (S2300-2) will be described in detail with reference to FIG.
In the tank cleaning 2 step, the control device 260 increases the dehydration rotation speed of the inner tank 210, and sets the rotation speed of the inner tank 210 to about 380 rpm (S2306). At this time, after confirming the degree of dehydration by the conductivity sensor 440, the control device 260 confirms whether or not the moisture contained in the clothing has decreased to a certain level (S2307).
The controller 260 continues to rotate the inner tub 210 until the moisture contained in the clothing is reduced to a certain level (S2307: No).

  In addition, the electrical conductivity sensor 440 (FIG. 32) in this embodiment is comprised with a pair of electrode which mutually faces as shown in FIG. 9, It is possible to measure the hardness of the water between these electrodes. In addition, since the conductivity sensor 440 is disposed near the lower side surface of the outer tub 220 as shown in FIG. 32, even if the drainage is advanced and the amount of water in the washing tub becomes small, the sensitivity is high. The degree of dehydration can be detected well.

  As described above, when the dehydration state is detected by the conductivity sensor 440 and it is confirmed that the moisture contained in the clothing has decreased to a certain level (S2307: Yes), the control device 260 sets the rotation speed of the inner tub 210 to the second speed. The tank cleaning rotation speed is reduced to about 240 rpm, the drain valve V is closed, the tank cleaning water supply electromagnetic valve 212e (tank cleaning valve) is opened (S2308), and the tank cleaning operation is started. Since this second tank cleaning rotation speed 240 rpm is higher than the rotation speed of the inner tank 210 in one tank cleaning process, water can be swept up to a high place that cannot be reached in one tank cleaning process. In step S2308, the control device 260 closes the drain valve V, opens the tank cleaning water supply electromagnetic valve 212e, and stores cleaning water in the outer tank 220. The control device 260 maintains the rotation speed of the inner tank 210 at 240 rpm even when the cleaning water is stored. The time for storing the washing water varies depending on the tap water pressure. The control device 260 determines the tap water pressure based on the relationship between the initial water supply amount and time, selects a water supply time that matches the water pressure, and supplies the water by time control. Here, the control device 260 supplies about 7 liters of washing water as the second tank washing water amount, thereby accumulating water up to a second tank washing water level of about 25% of the bottom height of the inner tank 210. This is because, under the condition that the rotation speed of the inner tank 210 is 240 rpm, the cleaning water can flow over the entire inner surfaces of the outer tank 220 and the outer tank cover 222 if the amount of cleaning water is about 7 liters.

  By this operation, the water accumulated in the lower part of the outer tub 220 is lifted up by irregularities such as dewatering holes existing on the outer side of the inner tub 210 and lifted so as to hit the bottom and side surfaces of the outer tub 220, and one tank cleaning step Wash away dirt that cannot be removed with Also, dust on the upper part of the outer tank 220 and the upper part of the outer tank cover 222 that adheres in the drying process can be washed away by the two tank cleaning processes. In addition, unlike the rinse water in one tank cleaning step, fresh water is used, so that it is possible to prevent adhesion of powder stains and the like.

  In step S2308, the controller 260 also performs an operation of supplying water from the tank cleaning water supply electromagnetic valve 212e to the outer tank cover side nozzle 250A via the cleaning water supply hose 255. And the control apparatus 260 discharges water from the water spout 250b2 (FIG. 29 (a)) provided in the front surface 250d side of the outer tank cover side nozzle 250A, and applies water to the inner wall face of the outer tank cover 222. Further, the control device 260 discharges water from the water spout 250a2 (FIG. 29d2) provided on the bottom surface 250f side of the outer tank cover side nozzle 250A, and applies water to the side wall surface of the inner tank 210. The water sprayed on the side wall surface of the inner tank 210 scatters outward in the circumferential direction due to the centrifugal force generated by the rotation of the inner tank 210, and reaches the inner wall surface behind the outer tank cover 222 and the outer wall surface of the inner tank 210.

  As described above, in this embodiment, a shower sprayed by the outer tank cover side nozzle 250A is used to make it difficult for dirt to remain on the inside of the outer tank cover 222 and the like. About the area | region of the inner wall surface vicinity in the high position behind 220, as above-mentioned, the adhesion of dirt is prevented by scooping up the water collected by the lower part of the outer tank 220 upwards.

  In the present embodiment, a combination of a shower by the outer tank cover side nozzle 250A and a scooping of water accumulated in the outer tank 220 is used to automatically wash out sebum dirt and detergent residue. Even if the shower by the tank cover side nozzle 250A is not used, the effect of washing away dirt and the like can be expected to some extent. In that case, water supply into the outer tank 220 in step S2308 may use a water supply electromagnetic valve other than the tank washing water supply electromagnetic valve 212e. However, if the operation is performed with a valve having a small water supply flow rate, such as the finishing agent water supply electromagnetic valve 212b and the cooling water supply electromagnetic valve 212d, the water supply time increases, resulting in a longer operation time. It is desirable to use 212a and the outer tank water supply electromagnetic valve 212c.

Next, when sufficient cleaning water is supplied to the tank, the controller 260 closes the tank cleaning water supply electromagnetic valve 212e (tank cleaning valve), but maintains the second rotation speed of the inner tank 210 as it is. (S2309), the water collected in the outer tub 220 is continuously scraped to prevent the region to be cleaned from being biased. In this embodiment, the inner tank 210 is rotated only in one direction at the second tank cleaning rotation speed so as not to increase the operation time. However, the rotation direction is reversed after a predetermined time has elapsed, or these are repeated a plurality of times. It is also possible to control to reduce washing unevenness.
Then, the control device 260 determines whether or not a predetermined time (for example, 30 seconds) has elapsed (S2310).
The controller 260 maintains the rotation of the inner tank 210 until the predetermined time has elapsed (S2310: No).

  When the predetermined time has elapsed (S2310: Yes), the control device 260 opens the drain valve V while maintaining the rotation speed of the inner tank 210 (S2311), and drains the washing water. Since the water is drained while maintaining the rotation speed, the washing water containing dirt can be drained without touching the clothes.

Then, the control device 260 determines whether or not the drainage is completed (S2312).
Until the drainage is completed (S2312: No), the control device 260 continues to drain the wash water.
When the drainage of the cleaning water is completed (S2312: Yes), the drain valve V is closed again while maintaining the rotation speed of the inner tank 210, and the tank cleaning water supply electromagnetic valve 212e (tank cleaning valve) is opened again ( S2312), about 2.5 liters of tap water is supplied. This 2.5 liter washing water amount (third tank washing water amount) is obtained up to the entire inside of the outer tank cover 222 under the condition that the rotation speed of the inner tank 210 is 240 rpm (the same as the second tank cleaning rotation speed). Although it is difficult to spread, the amount is such that washing water can flow over the entire inner bottom surface of the outer tub 220. Thus, since the bottom face inside the outer tub 220 where dirt easily adheres is repeatedly washed with clean water, the dirt can be surely removed. In addition, since the amount of water used at this time is smaller than the amount of the second tank washing water, it also leads to water saving. In step S2313 as well, water is supplied from the tank cleaning water supply electromagnetic valve 212e to the outer tank cover side nozzle 250A and sprayed to the outer tank cover 222 and the like.

Next, when sufficient cleaning water is supplied into the tank, the control device 260 closes the tank cleaning water supply electromagnetic valve 212e (tank cleaning valve), but maintains the tank cleaning rotation speed of the inner tank 210 as it is ( S2314) (30 seconds).
Then, the control device 260 determines whether or not a predetermined time (for example, 30 seconds) has elapsed (S2314).
Until a predetermined time has elapsed (S2314: No), the control device 260 continues to rotate the inner tank 210 with the tank cleaning water supply electromagnetic valve 212e closed.
When the predetermined time has elapsed (S2314: Yes), the control device 260 opens the drain valve V and drains the wash water while maintaining the rotation speed of the inner tank 210 (S2316). Thus, the effect of tank cleaning is improved by switching the second tank cleaning water amount and the third tank cleaning water amount and using clean water.
Note that step S2308 in FIG. 38 corresponds to the tank cleaning water supply step 1 (S2300-1-S21) in FIG. 35, and step S2311 in FIG. 38 corresponds to the waste water (S2300-1-S22) in FIG. Further, step S2313 in FIG. 38 corresponds to the tank cleaning water supply 2 (S2300-2-S23) in FIG. 35, and step S2316 in FIG. 38 corresponds to the waste water (S2300-2-S24) in FIG.

Next, the dehydration step 2 (S2400-2) will be described in detail with reference to FIG.
As shown in FIG. 39, when one dehydration step (S2400-1) is entered, the control device 260 determines whether or not the drainage is completed (S2403).
Until the drainage is completed (S2403: No), the control device 260 continues the drainage.
When the drainage is completed (S2403: Yes), after the final dehydration process is executed for a predetermined time (S2402), the process proceeds to the drying process (S2500-S26 in FIG. 35) with the drain valve V open. Then, when the operation of the drying step (S2500) is finished, the control device 260 closes the drain valve V.
Here, steps S2403 and S2404 in FIG. 39 correspond to the two dehydration steps (S2400-2-S25) in FIG.

  Thus, when shifting from the tank cleaning process (S2300-1, S2300-2) to the dehydration process (S2400-1, S2400-2), the process proceeds to the dehydration process while maintaining the rotation of the inner tank 210. The operation time can be shortened. That is, if the rotation of the inner tub 210 is stopped before the dehydration step, it is necessary to increase the rotation speed while balancing the inner tub 210 when starting the dehydration step. It will take some time to increase in speed. By preventing the rotation of the inner tank 210 from being stopped in the tank cleaning step as in the present embodiment, the above-described balancing time can be omitted, and the operation time can be shortened.

  In the drying step (S2500), the control device 260 opens the cooling water supply electromagnetic valve 212d, energizes the heater 242 and drives the fan 241. Thereby, the steam generated from the clothing is removed (dehumidified) by a water-cooled dehumidifying member (not shown), heated by the heater 242, and then returned to the inner tub 210 again as dry air.

  As described above, in the drum type washing / drying machine W2, the outer tub cover 222 (outer tub 220) and the squeezed portion 210d of the inner tub 210 (side surface of the front end of the inner tub) are formed in the upper part of the outer tub cover 222 (outer tub 220). ), An outer tank cover side nozzle 250A (water channel member) is provided via a cleaning water supply hose 255 for flowing the cleaning water supplied from the tank cleaning water supply electromagnetic valve 212e. By doing in this way, the dirt and dust adhering to the inner surface of the outer tub cover 222 and the front surface of the inner tub 210 can be removed, and the washing tub (the inner tub 210 is washed away before the dirt and dust accumulate). The outer tub 220) can be kept clean. By suppressing the adhesion of dirt and dust in this way, it is possible to suppress the growth of mold and the generation of off-flavors. Furthermore, it is possible to prevent or suppress dust from adhering to the laundry being washed.

<< Embodiment 1 >>
As described above, the washing / drying machine W (W1, W2) according to the present embodiment performs the washing process of the outer tub and the inner tub during the series of washing steps including the washing step, the rinsing step, and the dehydration step. I do. Whether or not the tank cleaning process is executed, that is, whether or not the automatic tank cleaning function is activated can be set on / off by a button provided on the outer surface of the washing / drying machine W, and can be selected by the user.

  FIG. 40 is a diagram illustrating an example of an operation part in the washing / drying machine. The washing course is performed with the automatic tub washing button 325 (such as the operation button 17a in FIG. 14) set (turned on) with the power of the selective dryer W turned on with the start / pause button 326. When started, the tank washing process (tank washing process and dehydration / tank washing shower process in the vertical type washing dryer W1) is performed, and if the washing course is started without setting (turned off), these tank washings Is not done. That is, the automatic tank cleaning button 325 is a setting unit that allows the user to set whether or not the tank cleaning process can be performed. Note that the setting contents (ON / OFF) for the automatic tank cleaning button 325 are recorded in the control means (control devices 1110 and 260), and the same setting contents are set at the next and subsequent washings unless the setting is changed. Applied.

  Here, in the washing and drying machine W, even when the automatic tank washing button 325 is set, only when a predetermined condition is satisfied, the tank washing process is performed until the series of washing processes is completed. If the condition is not satisfied, only a series of washing steps are performed without performing the tank washing step. This is to reduce the time, water, power, etc. required for washing by performing the tank cleaning process only when there is a high possibility that the tank cleaning is necessary, instead of performing the tank cleaning process for each washing. It is.

  The predetermined condition is, for example, whether or not the number of continuous executions of a series of washing steps not involving the tank cleaning step is equal to or greater than a predetermined number N. That is, when the number of washings from the washing with the previous tank washing process is less than the predetermined number N, the tank washing process is not performed, and the number of washings from the washing with the previous tank washing process becomes the predetermined number N or more. The tank cleaning process is performed.

  More specifically, for example, when the predetermined number N = 3, after performing the washing process with the tank washing process, the tank washing process is not performed until the third washing, and only a series of washing processes are performed. And after performing the washing process with the tank washing process, the number of continuous executions of the series of washing processes without the tank washing process is the predetermined number 3 in the fourth washing. A tank cleaning process is performed.

  In order to execute such control, the control devices 1110 and 260 store, for example, the value of the total number of operation times at the time of washing involving the tank cleaning step in the memory area as the total number of operation times at the time of previous tank cleaning. Then, each time the washing / drying machine W is activated (powered on), the memory area is referred to read out the total number of operations at the time of the previous tank cleaning, and the current total number of operations and the total number of operations at the time of the previous tank cleaning Calculate the difference. When the difference between the current total operation count and the previous total tank operation count is less than the predetermined number N + 1, the control devices 1110 and 260 perform only a series of washing steps without performing the bath cleaning step. When the difference between the current total operation count and the previous total tank operation count is equal to or greater than the predetermined number N + 1, the control devices 1110 and 260 perform the tank cleaning process in a series of washing processes. The specific processing of the control devices 1110 and 260 is not limited to the above processing, and can be variously changed.

  FIG. 41 is a flowchart of a procedure for determining whether or not to perform the tank cleaning process according to the first embodiment. In the flowchart of FIG. 41, when the power of the washing and drying machine W is turned on (step S3401: Yes), the control devices 1110 and 260 determine whether or not the automatic tank washing button 325 is turned on ( S3402). When the automatic tank cleaning button 325 is not turned on (S3402: No), that is, when the automatic tank cleaning button 325 is turned off, the control devices 1110 and 260 move to step S3404 and perform the washing process. (Step S3404), a series of washing steps including a rinsing step (S3405) and a dehydrating step (Step S3406) are performed, and the processing according to this flowchart is terminated.

  When the automatic tank cleaning button 325 is turned on (step S3402: Yes), that is, when the automatic tank cleaning button 325 is turned on, the control devices 1110 and 260 are not subjected to a series of tank cleaning steps. It is determined whether or not the number of continuous executions of the washing process (the number of operations without tank cleaning) has reached a predetermined number N (step S3403). When the number of continuous executions of the series of washing steps not involving the tank washing step (the number of operations without tank washing) is less than the predetermined number N (step S3403: No), the control devices 1110 and 260 also wash the tank even during the current washing. A series of washing processes including a washing process (step S3404), a rinsing process (step S3405), and a dehydrating process (step S3406) are performed without performing the process, and the process according to this flowchart is completed.

  On the other hand, when the number of continuous executions of the series of washing processes not involving the tank washing process (the number of operations without tank washing) is equal to or greater than the predetermined number N (step S3403: Yes), the control devices 1110 and 260 perform washing with the tank washing process. Execute the process. That is, the washing process (step S3407), the rinsing process (step S3408), the tank washing process (step S3409), and the dewatering process (step S3410) are performed, and the process according to this flowchart is completed. The details of each step during washing are as described in the explanation of the configuration and operation of each washing dryer (vertical washing dryer W1, drum type washing dryer W2).

  The predetermined number N may be a constant value, or may be varied depending on the date when washing is performed, for example. Specifically, for example, the value of N is decreased in summer and the value of N is increased in winter. This is because in the summer, the temperature and water temperature are high, and the probability of occurrence of mold and off-flavors increases, so that the tank cleaning process is frequently performed. On the other hand, since the temperature and water temperature are low in winter and there is a low probability of mold and off-flavors, the frequency of performing the tank cleaning step is reduced to reduce the time and amount of water required for washing. The date when the washing process is executed is determined based on a timer (calendar) provided in the control devices 1110 and 260, for example.

  Further, the predetermined number N may be varied depending on the value of a temperature sensor (water temperature sensor or outside air temperature sensor) provided in the washing / drying machine W, for example. Specifically, for example, the value of N is decreased when the average water temperature or the average temperature in the most recent predetermined period is equal to or higher than the predetermined temperature Th, and is increased when the average water temperature or lower than the predetermined temperature Tl (<Th). To do. This is because the tank cleaning process is frequently performed because the probability of occurrence of mold and off-flavor increases when the temperature and water temperature are high. On the other hand, since the probability of occurrence of mold and off-flavor is low in a state where the temperature and water temperature are low, the frequency of performing the tank cleaning step is reduced to reduce the time and amount of water required for washing.

  Moreover, you may change the degree of washing | cleaning in a tank washing | cleaning process according to the frequency | count of driving | operation (the frequency | count of implementation of a series of washing processes). More specifically, for example, a “whole course” and a “simple course” are provided in the tank washing process, and the side and bottom surfaces of the washing tub are washed during the whole course, and only the bottom surface of the washing tub is washed in the simple course. . When the number of operations without tank cleaning reaches a predetermined number N or more after the entire course is performed, automatic tank cleaning is first performed using a simple course. When the automatic tank cleaning by the simple course reaches a predetermined number M or more, the automatic tank cleaning by the whole course is performed at the next automatic tank cleaning. Thereby, the washing | cleaning according to the dirt degree of the estimated washing / drying machine W can be performed, and the time concerning the automatic tank washing | cleaning, the amount of water, electric power, etc. can be reduced.

  As explained above, according to the washing / drying machine W according to the first embodiment, when the number of continuous operations without the tank cleaning process is less than a predetermined number, a series of washing processes is performed without performing the tank cleaning process. The automatic tank cleaning is performed when the number of continuous executions of the operation (a series of washing processes) not involving the tank cleaning process reaches a predetermined number or more. Thereby, compared with the case where an automatic tank washing | cleaning is performed for every driving | operation, the required time, the amount of water used, and the amount of electricity used at the time of washing can be reduced. In addition, since the required time, the amount of water used, and the amount of electricity used during washing can be reduced in this way, it is possible to prevent the user from canceling the automatic tank washing function, so the washing tub of the washing and drying machine W can be cleaned. Can be kept in.

  In addition, according to the washer / dryer W according to the first embodiment, in order to determine whether or not the automatic tank cleaning can be performed, it is only necessary to measure the number of operations since the previous automatic tank cleaning execution operation. The present invention can also be applied to a washing and drying machine W having a simple configuration.

<< Embodiment 2 >>
In the first embodiment, as a predetermined condition, it was determined whether or not the number of continuous executions of a series of washing steps that do not involve a tank cleaning step has reached a predetermined number N or more. In Embodiment 2, whether or not to perform the tank cleaning step based on whether or not the measurement value of the sensor (measuring unit) that measures the physical quantity indicating the degree of contamination of the outer tank or the inner tank satisfies a predetermined condition. Judging.

  Here, the measurement means is, for example, electrical conductivity sensors 140 and 440 that measure the electrical conductivity of washing water during washing. In the present embodiment, the detergent concentration is measured by measuring the electrical conductivity in the rinse water during the rinsing process using the electrical conductivity sensors 140 and 440. More specifically, it can be seen that the higher the electrical conductivity of the rinse water, the more the electrolyte as the detergent component is contained in the water, and the higher the detergent concentration. The measurement of the detergent concentration in the rinse water is performed, for example, in the washing / drying machine W having a function of automatically adjusting the rinse time based on the detergent concentration in the rinse water. In such a function, for example, the detergent concentration in the rinse water after a lapse of a predetermined time from the start of rinsing is measured, and if the detergent concentration is equal to or lower than the predetermined concentration, it is assumed that the rinsing is sufficiently completed, and the subsequent rinsing is performed. Reduce time.

  In the present embodiment, the detergent concentration in the rinsing water in the rinsing process is measured by measuring the electrical conductivity in the rinsing water. When the detergent concentration in the rinsing water is equal to or higher than the predetermined concentration, a series of washing steps are performed. A tank washing process is performed until the process is completed. When the detergent concentration is lower than a predetermined concentration, only a series of washing processes are performed without performing the tank washing process. As described above, when the detergent concentration in the rinse water is equal to or higher than the predetermined concentration, the tank cleaning step is performed. First, when the detergent concentration in the rinse water is equal to or higher than the predetermined concentration, dirt is attached to the washing tub. This is because the rinse water may be contaminated. Second, when the detergent concentration in the rinse water is equal to or higher than the predetermined concentration, leaving the rinse water may cause the detergent components to adhere to the washing tub and cause dirt in the washing tub. Because there is.

  FIG. 42 is a flowchart of a procedure for determining whether or not to perform the tank cleaning process according to the second embodiment. In the flowchart of FIG. 42, when the power of the washing and drying machine W is turned on (step S3501: Yes), the control devices 1110 and 260 determine whether or not the automatic tank washing button 325 is turned on ( Step S3502). When the automatic tank cleaning button 325 is not turned on (step S3502: No), that is, when the automatic tank cleaning button 325 is turned off, the control devices 1110, 260 are rinsed (step S3503). A series of washing steps including a step (step S3504) and a dehydration step (step S3505) are performed, and the processing according to this flowchart is completed.

  When the automatic tank cleaning button 325 is turned on (step S3502: Yes), that is, when the automatic tank cleaning button 325 is turned on, the control devices 1110 and 260 perform the washing process (step S3506) and the rinsing. A process (step S3507) is performed. Then, the control devices 1110 and 260 determine whether or not the detergent concentration in the rinse water is equal to or higher than a predetermined concentration during the rinsing process (step S3508). Note that the determination in step S3508 is performed using the rinse water in the final rinse, for example, in the case of setting to perform a plurality of rinses.

  When the detergent concentration in the rinse water is equal to or higher than the predetermined concentration (step S3508: Yes), the control devices 1110 and 260 perform the tank cleaning process after the rinsing process is completed (step S3509). Finally, a dehydration step is performed (step S3510), and the processing according to this flowchart is terminated. On the other hand, when the detergent concentration in the rinse water is less than the predetermined concentration (step S3508: No), the controller 1110, 260 performs only the dehydration process without performing the tank cleaning process after the rinsing process (step S3510). ), The process according to this flowchart is terminated.

  The predetermined concentration in step S3508 is, for example, from the detergent concentration at which it is determined that the time of the rinsing process can be shortened in the washing / drying machine W having a function of automatically adjusting the rinsing time based on the detergent concentration in the rinsing water. Can also be a large value.

  In the above description, the electrical conductivity sensors 140 and 440 that measure the detergent concentration in the rinse water in the rinsing process are used as the measurement means. However, the measurement target by the measurement means is not limited to this, and the washing tub (outer tub Alternatively, any physical quantity may be used as long as it indicates the degree of contamination of the inner tank). For example, a sensor that measures dirt adhering to the surface of the washing tub, a sensor that measures odors in the washing tub, a sensor that measures the degree of dirt in the rinse water, and the like are provided. When it is obtained, the tank cleaning process may be performed, and in other cases, the tank cleaning process may not be performed. Further, a plurality of these sensors may be provided, and the presence or absence of the tank cleaning process may be determined based on the measurement values of the plurality of sensors.

  As described above, according to the washing / drying machine W according to the second embodiment, the measurement unit that measures the physical quantity indicating the degree of soiling of the outer tub or the inner tub, for example, an electrical conductivity sensor, is provided. If the value satisfies a predetermined condition, automatic tank cleaning is performed, and if the predetermined condition is not satisfied, only a series of washing steps are performed without performing automatic tank cleaning. Thereby, like Embodiment 1, compared with the case where an automatic tank washing | cleaning is performed for every driving | operation, the required required time at the time of washing | cleaning, the amount of water used, and the amount of electricity used can be reduced. In addition, since the required time, the amount of water used, and the amount of electricity used during washing can be reduced in this way, it is possible to prevent the user from canceling the automatic tank washing function, so the washing tub of the washing and drying machine W can be cleaned. Can be kept in.

  In addition, according to the washer / dryer W according to the second embodiment, whether or not the automatic tub cleaning can be performed is determined based on the measurement value obtained by a measuring unit such as an electrical conductivity sensor. Based on this, it is possible to determine whether or not the automatic tub cleaning can be performed, and the washing tub can be cleaned at a more appropriate timing.

18,210 Inner tank 19,220 Outer tank 140,440 Electrical conductivity sensor (measuring means)
260, 1110 Control device (control means)
2325 Button for automatic tank cleaning (setting means)

Claims (5)

An outer tub that is supported in the housing and stores the wash water inside;
An inner tub enclosed in the outer tub and containing laundry;
The laundry in the inner tub is subjected to a series of washing steps including a washing step, a rinsing step, and a dehydration step, and at least one of the outer tub and the inner tub is washed during the series of washing steps. And a control means for performing the tank cleaning process
When the predetermined condition is satisfied, the control means performs the tank cleaning process until the series of washing processes is completed, and performs the series of washing processes when the predetermined condition is not satisfied. And a washing machine.   When the number of continuous executions of the series of washing steps not performing the tank washing step is equal to or greater than a predetermined number, the control means performs the bath washing step until the series of washing steps is completed, 2. The washing according to claim 1, wherein the series of washing steps is performed without performing the tank washing step when the number of continuous executions of the series of washing steps not involving the tank washing step is less than a predetermined number. Machine. Comprising a measuring means for measuring a physical quantity indicating the degree of contamination of the outer tank or the inner tank,
The control means performs the tank washing process until the series of washing steps are completed when the measurement value by the measuring means satisfies a predetermined condition, and the tank washing process when the predetermined condition is not satisfied. The washing machine according to claim 1, wherein the series of washing steps are performed without performing the steps. The measuring means measures the detergent concentration in the rinse water in the rinsing step,
When the detergent concentration is equal to or higher than the predetermined concentration, the control means performs the tank cleaning step until the series of washing steps is completed. When the detergent concentration is lower than the predetermined concentration, the control unit performs the tank cleaning step. The washing machine according to claim 3, wherein the series of washing steps are performed. Comprising setting means capable of being set by a user as to whether or not the tank cleaning step can be performed;
The said control means performs the said tank washing | cleaning process, when implementation of the said tank washing | cleaning process is set possible through the said setting means, and when the said predetermined conditions are satisfy | filled. The washing machine according to any one of the above.

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