JP2018082792A - Washing machine - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a washing machine which prevents overheat of a heater at low cost by measuring a temperature of a heater and a water temperature in a water tub with one thermistor.SOLUTION: A washing machine includes: a washing machine body 11; a water tub 13 supported inside the washing machine body 11, and having a drain port at a bottom part; and a heater unit 32 arranged at a lower position than the water tub 13, and communicated with an inner bottom part of the water tub 13. The heater unit 32 has: a heater storage container 37 for storing a heater 38 for heating washing water inside; the heater 38 inserted in the heater storage container 37 from an opening of the heater storage container 37, and for heating the washing water; and a temperature detection part 56 disposed in the vicinity of the heater 38 and for measuring a water temperature in the heater storage container 37. In a state where the heater 38 is turned on, a gradient of temperature rise is calculated from a temperature change amount of the washing water in the heater storage container 37 in predetermined time, and from the gradient of the temperature rise and a target setting water temperature in the water tub, conduction time is calculated in which the heater 38 is turned on.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 11

Description

  The present invention relates to a washing machine including a heated water generating device that heats washing water.

  Patent document 1 discloses the overheat prevention means of the washing machine provided with the heating water production | generation apparatus which heats washing water. The washing machine includes a first thermistor that senses the heating temperature of the heater, a heater temperature sensing unit that outputs a first temperature sensing signal corresponding to the sensed heater temperature, and a temperature for washing water. A second thermistor, and a water temperature sensing unit that outputs a second temperature sensing signal corresponding to the sensed temperature of the washing water. In addition, a power supply switching unit that receives the first temperature sensing signal, calculates a temperature increment value of the heater with respect to a predetermined time value, and switches the power supplied to the heater according to the power supply switching signal is provided.

  A heater temperature increment value with respect to a predetermined time value is calculated from the first temperature sensing signal. When the heater temperature increment value is larger than a predetermined reference value, the power supply switching unit switches the power supplied to the heater. Thus, overheating of the heater can be prevented.

JP-A-6-79089

  However, the conventional configuration requires two thermistors that measure the heating temperature of the heater and the thermistor that measures the temperature of the washing water in the water tank and controls the temperature.

  The present invention solves the above-described conventional problems, and can detect the overheating of the heater and control the temperature of the water temperature in the aquarium with a single thermistor, thereby providing a low-cost and highly reliable washing machine.

  The washing machine in the present invention includes a washing machine main body, a water tank supported inside the washing machine main body and having a drain outlet at a bottom, a drain cock unit connected to the drain outlet of the water tank, and the drain cock unit. A heater unit connected to and communicated with the inner bottom of the water tank, a heater built in the heater unit for heating washing water, a thermistor disposed near the heater for measuring the water temperature in the heater unit, and the heater And a controller that controls the wash water in the water tank to a predetermined target set water temperature, and the controller estimates a water temperature in the water tank from a temperature measured by the thermistor and supplies water to the water tank. The first energization time of the heater is determined from the water temperature and the amount of water supplied, and the temperature increase rate in the water tank within the first energization time is calculated by the thermistor. A second energization time of the heater until the wash water in the water tank reaches the target set water temperature is calculated from the temperature increase rate and the water temperature in the water tank after the first energization time. Is.

  With this configuration, it is possible to detect overheating of the heater and control the temperature of the water temperature in the water tank with a single thermistor, so that a low-cost and highly reliable washing machine can be provided.

The washing machine of the present invention can detect the overheating of the heater and control the temperature of the water in the water tank with one thermistor.

Longitudinal sectional view of the washing machine in the first embodiment Water tank bottom view of the washing machine and exploded perspective view of the heater unit Perspective view of heater unit of the washing machine (A) Top view of heater unit of the washing machine, (b) AA sectional view of the heat unit in FIG. 4 (a) of the washing machine. Sectional view of the heater unit of the washing machine Sectional view of the bottom of the water tank and the heater unit of the washing machine The principal part expanded sectional view of the heater unit of FIG. 6 in the washing machine The bottom of the water tank of the washing machine, and the BB cross-sectional view of the heater unit in FIG. The principal part expanded sectional view of the heater unit of FIG. 8 in the washing machine Partial sectional perspective view showing the flow of washing water in the heater unit of the washing machine Graph of the water temperature in the heater container of the washing machine and the water temperature in the water tank The disassembled perspective view of the heater unit of the washing machine in Embodiment 2 Cross section of bottom of water tank, drain cock unit, heater unit of the washing machine Perspective view of heater unit of the washing machine Perspective view of heater unit of the washing machine Sectional drawing which shows the flow of the washing water in the heater unit of the washing machine

  The first invention is a washing machine main body, a water tank supported inside the washing machine main body and having a drain outlet at the bottom, a drain cock unit connected to the drain outlet of the water tank, and connected to the drain cock unit A heater unit communicating with the inner bottom of the water tank, a heater built in the heater unit for heating washing water, a thermistor disposed in the vicinity of the heater for measuring the water temperature in the heater unit, and the heater. And a controller that controls the wash water in the water tank to a predetermined target set water temperature, and the controller estimates the water temperature in the water tank from the temperature measured by the thermistor and is supplied to the water tank. A first energization time of the heater is determined from the water temperature and the amount of water supplied, and the temperature rise rate in the water tank within the first energization time is calculated by the thermistor. By calculating the second energization time of the heater until the washing water in the water tank reaches the target set water temperature from the water temperature in the water tank after the first energization time and the temperature of one thermistor Can be used to detect overheating of the heater and control the temperature of the water temperature in the water tank.

  According to a second aspect of the invention, in particular, the control unit of the washing machine according to the first aspect of the invention estimates the water temperature in the water tank based on a temperature measured by the thermistor after a predetermined time has elapsed after the heater energization ends. One thermistor can be used to detect the heater overheating and the water temperature in the water tank.

  According to a third aspect of the present invention, in the washing machine according to the first or second aspect of the invention, the washing and dewatering tub rotatably disposed inside the water tub and the center fixed portion of the washing and dehydrating tub are rotatable. The washing water in the water tank is agitated by rotating the pulsator at a predetermined time interval to agitate the washing water in the water tank and the washing water in the heater unit. Stirring can promote the equilibrium of the water temperature difference between the washing water in the water tank and the washing water in the heater container.

Hereinafter, embodiments will be described in detail with reference to the drawings as appropriate. However, more detailed description than necessary may be omitted. For example, detailed descriptions of already well-known matters and repeated descriptions for substantially the same configuration may be omitted. This is to avoid the following description from becoming unnecessarily redundant and to facilitate understanding by those skilled in the art.

  The accompanying drawings and the following description are provided to enable those skilled in the art to fully understand the present disclosure, and are not intended to limit the claimed subject matter.

[table of contents]
1. Embodiment 1
1-1. Configuration 1-1-1. Structure of washing machine 1-1-2. Configuration of heater unit 1-2. Driving operation of washing machine 1-3. Flow of washing water in heater unit 1-4. Heater unit status check and maintenance method 1-5. 1. Water temperature detection method in the tank Embodiment 2
2-1. Configuration of heater unit 2-2. 2. Flow of washing water in the heater unit Other Embodiments (Embodiment 1)
The first embodiment will be described below with reference to FIGS.

[1-1. Constitution]
[1-1-1. Structure of washing machine]
1 is a longitudinal sectional view of a washing machine according to Embodiment 1. FIG.

  In FIG. 1, the washing machine main body 11 has a water tank 13 supported by a suspension 12 for vibration isolation. Inside the water tub 13, a washing / dehydrating tub 15 serving both as a washing tub and a dewatering tub is rotatably provided. The washing / dehydrating tub 15 has a pulsator 18 rotatably disposed at the bottom.

  A transmission mechanism 20 is disposed on the outer bottom of the water tank 13. The transmission mechanism 20 includes a reduction gear (not shown) for washing, a switching clutch (not shown) for the washing / dehydrating shaft 14, and a brake (not shown) for stopping the washing / dehydrating tub 15. Built in.

  A motor 21 is attached to the outer bottom portion of the water tank 13, and a motor-side pulley 22 is attached to the motor 21. A mechanical pulley 23 is connected to the washing / dehydrating shaft 14, and the motor pulley 22 and the mechanical pulley 23 are connected to each other by a belt 24. With the above configuration, the power of the motor 21 is transmitted to the washing / dehydrating shaft 14 via the belt 24. Further, by controlling the switching clutch, it is possible to realize a state in which only the pulsator 18 is rotated using the motor 21 and a state in which the pulsator 18 and the washing and dewatering tub 15 are simultaneously rotated.

  An upper frame 25 is disposed on the upper part of the washing machine body 11. A laundry loading / unloading port 26 for communicating the washing / dehydrating tub 15 and the outside is formed at a substantially central portion of the upper frame 25, and the laundry loading / unloading port 26 is covered with a door body 27 so as to be freely opened and closed. It has been broken. On the rear side of the upper frame 25, an operation display unit 29 is provided for performing various input settings and displaying the setting contents. A water supply valve 30, a water injection case 31, and the like that can be opened and closed by electromagnetic force are disposed inside the upper frame 25 on the rear side.

  Inside the washing machine main body 11 is a control device (not shown) that controls the motor 21 and the like, sequentially controls a series of steps of washing, rinsing, and dewatering, and controlling the water temperature of the washing water (not shown). (Not shown).

  A fluid balancer 16 is disposed in the upper part of the washing and dewatering tank 15. A back plate 17 is detachably disposed on the back surface of the washing machine body 11 so as to cover the back surface opening (inspection port) 11a.

  FIG. 2 is a bottom perspective view of the water tub of the washing machine in Embodiment 1, and an exploded perspective view of the heater unit. As shown in FIG. 2, the bottom of the water tank 13 has a first drain port 33a and a second drain port 33b.

[1-1-2. Heater unit configuration]
3 is a perspective view of the heater unit of the washing machine according to Embodiment 1, FIG. 4 (a) is a top view of the heater unit of the washing machine, and FIG. 4 (b) is a heat unit in FIG. 4 (a). FIG. 5 is a sectional view of the heater unit of the washing machine, FIG. 6 is a sectional view of the bottom of the water tank and the heater unit of the washing machine, and FIG. 7 is a main part of the heater unit of FIG. FIG. 8 is an enlarged sectional view, FIG. 8 is a bottom view of the water tank of the washing machine, and a BB sectional view of the heater unit in FIG. 4A, and FIG. 9 is an enlarged sectional view of a main part of the heater unit of FIG. It is.

  Below, the heater unit 32 of this Embodiment is demonstrated.

  As shown in FIG. 1, the heater unit 32 is fixed at a position where the back plate 17 can be removed and maintained on the outer bottom portion on the back side of the water tank 13.

  As shown in FIG. 2, the heater unit 32 includes a substantially rectangular parallelepiped heater housing container 37 that is open at both ends in the longitudinal direction, a heater 38 that is inserted from one opening of the heater housing container 37, and a heater housing container. The sheet metal member 36 is inserted through the other opening 37 and covers the heater 38, and the lid 51 covers the other opening into which the sheet metal member 36 is inserted.

  Below, each component is demonstrated.

[A. Heater container 37]
The heater container 37 is made of a heat-resistant resin and has a substantially rectangular parallelepiped shape with both ends in the longitudinal direction opened. Of the openings in the longitudinal direction of the heater container 37, one opening is a heater insertion opening 37 b into which the heater 38 is inserted, and the other opening is a sheet metal member insertion in which the sheet metal member 36 is inserted and covered by the lid 51. This is an opening 37c.

  In the vicinity of the heater insertion opening 37b on the upper surface of the heater container 37, a cylindrical outflow passage portion 37g communicating with the second drainage port 33b at the bottom of the water tank 13 is formed.

  In the vicinity of the sheet metal member insertion opening 37c on the side surface adjacent to the surface having the outflow path portion 37g, a drain cock connection opening 37a communicating with the drain cock unit 34 is provided. The drain cock unit 34 and the heater container 37 are detachably attached by screw fastening (not shown) or the like.

As shown in FIG. 2, the drain cock unit 34 is welded and fixed by a welding boss 45 at a position where the inlet 34 a communicates with the first drain port 33 a at the bottom of the water tank 13. The water tank 13 and the heater container 37 are connected in communication via a drain cock unit 34. As shown in FIGS. 2, 3, and 4B, the drain cock unit 34 has a drain path opening 34c. The drainage channel side opening 34 c is connected to the drainage channel 41. By opening a drain valve (not shown) of the drain cock unit 34, the wash water in the water tank 13 and the heater container 37 is drained to the outside of the washing machine body 11 through the drain path 41.

  In the present embodiment, the water tank 13 and the drain cock unit 34 are welded and fixed. However, the present invention is not limited to this and may be detachably attached by screw fastening or the like.

[B. Sheet metal member 36]
As shown in FIG. 2, the sheet metal member 36 surrounding the heater 38 has a substantially rectangular parallelepiped shape with both ends in the longitudinal direction opened. The sheet metal member 36 is inserted into the heater housing 37 from the sheet metal member insertion opening 37c in the forward direction.

  Since the radiant heat generated from the heater 38 is conducted and diffused through the sheet metal member 36, the risk that the heat concentrates and melts in a part of the heater housing container 37 to generate holes can be reduced.

  The sheet metal member 36 is composed of two sheet metal parts. As shown in FIGS. 2 and 6, one end of the sheet metal member 36 is spot welded along a spot weld portion 42 in the longitudinal direction. As shown in FIGS. 6 and 7, the other end of the sheet metal member 36 has a separation portion 36 a that is not welded and has a constant gap. Therefore, the sheet metal member 36 is substantially U-shaped. The sheet metal member 36 is formed with a support piece 40 recessed inward by bending. The heater 38 accommodated in the heater accommodating container 37 is fixed by the support piece 40 so as not to move.

  A method for fixing the sheet metal member 36 and the heater container 37 will be described with reference to FIGS. 5, 6, and 7.

  As shown in FIG. 5, a belt-like rib 37 d is formed on the inner wall of the heater housing 37 so as to correspond to the position of the separating portion 36 a in a state where the sheet metal member 36 is inserted into the heater housing 37. . When the sheet metal member 36 is inserted into the heater accommodating container 37 from the sheet metal member insertion opening 37c in the forward direction, the strip-shaped rib 37d is positioned in the separation portion 36a.

  As shown in FIGS. 6 and 7, the width dimension W of the strip-shaped rib 37 d at the position where it abuts on the sheet metal member 36 in the state where the sheet metal member 36 is inserted into the heater housing container 37 is from the rear side toward the front side. And wide.

  The width dimension W1 of the end of the sheet metal member insertion opening 37c (rear side) of the belt-shaped rib 37d in FIG. 7 is larger than the separation width of the separation portion 36a in a state where the sheet metal member 36 is accommodated in the heater accommodating container 37. It is narrowly formed. The width dimension W2 of the heater insertion opening 37b side (front side) end of the strip-shaped rib 37d in FIG. 7 is wider than the separation width of the separation portion 36a in a state where the sheet metal member 36 is housed in the heater housing container 37. It is formed as follows. Further, as shown in FIG. 8, the inner wall lower surface 39a of the heater container 37 is directed upward from the sheet metal member insertion opening 37c side (rear side) toward the heater insertion opening 37b side (front side). 39b is gradually inclined downward. Therefore, as the sheet metal member 36 is inserted from the sheet metal member insertion opening 37c side (rear side) toward the heater insertion opening 37b side (front side), the separation width of the separation part 36a becomes narrower.

With the above configuration, when the sheet metal member 36 is inserted into the heater housing container 37 from the sheet metal member insertion opening 37c side (rear side) toward the heater insertion opening 37b side (front side), a strip-shaped rib is inserted from the middle of the insertion. The width W of 37 d is wider than the separation width of the separation portion 36 a of the sheet metal member 36. Therefore, by press-fitting the sheet metal member 36 into the heater accommodating container 37, the end of the separating portion 36a of the sheet metal member 36 is recessed into the belt-shaped rib 37d. In this way, the sheet metal member 36 can be supported and fixed in the heater accommodating container 37.

  In the present embodiment, the sheet metal member 36 is configured by spot welding two sheet metals, but may be configured by molding one sheet metal, for example.

[C. Heater 38]
The heater 38 will be described with reference to FIG.

  The heater 38 is inserted from the heater insertion opening 37 b of the heater container 37.

  The heater 38 includes a heating part 38a, a terminal part 38b, and a connection part 38c.

  The heating unit 38 a is located inside the heater container 37 and generates heat for heating the washing water in the heater container 37. Further, as shown in FIG. 2, the heating unit 38a is bent many times on the same plane. With the above configuration, since the surface area of the heating unit 38a is increased, the washing water can be efficiently heated.

  The terminal part 38b is electrically connected to the heating part 38a. The terminal portion 38b is electrically connected to an external power source (not shown) located outside the heater housing 37 and a control device (not shown). The electric power from the external power source is supplied to the heating unit 38a through the terminal unit 38b.

  The connection part 38c is interposed between the heating part 38a and the terminal part 38b. The connecting portion 38c is provided with a flexible member 38d having a size corresponding to the heater insertion opening 37b of the heater container 37. In FIG. 8, the heater 38 can be fixed in the heater container 37 by tightening the nut 43 in a state where the heating portion 38 a is inserted into the heater insertion opening 37 b. That is, by tightening the nut 43, a forward force is applied to the bolt 44 and the pressure contact plate 47 welded to the bolt 44, and the flexible member 38d is compressed in the front-rear direction, so that it expands in the circumferential direction. The heater insertion opening 37b can be sealed. With the above configuration, it is possible to prevent the washing water in the heater storage container 37 from leaking from the heater insertion opening 37b. The flexible member 38d is formed of packing such as rubber that is elastically deformed.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 2, a temperature detection unit 56 that measures the water temperature in the heater container 37 is disposed in the connection unit 38 c. The temperature detection unit 56 includes a thermistor or the like.

[D. Lid 51]
As shown in FIGS. 8 and 9, the lid body 51 detachably covers the sheet metal member insertion opening 37 c of the heater housing container 37 by screw fastening (not shown).

  In order to remove the lid 51 and check the inside of the heater container 37 and maintain the heater unit 32, the sheet metal member insertion opening 37c covered by the lid 51 has a rear opening 11a of the washing machine main body 11. It is provided on the back side.

  The sheet metal member insertion opening 37 c covered by the lid 51 is attached to a position facing the heater 38 inserted into the heater housing container 37. By setting it as the said structure, the state of the heater 38 can be easily visually recognized by removing the cover body 51 from the heater accommodating container 37. FIG.

The lid 51 is formed with an inclined rib 51 a that presses the sheet metal member 36 inserted into the heater housing 37 against the inner wall surface of the heater housing 37. The sheet metal member insertion opening 37c side (rear side) end of the sheet metal member 36 inserted into the heater accommodating container 37 is widened toward the inner wall lower surface 39a and the inner wall upper surface 39b by the inclined rib 51a.

  In addition, ribs 37e that support the sheet metal member 36 are extended and formed on the inner wall lower surface 39a and the inner wall upper surface 39b of the heater containing container 37 with the heater containing container 37 attached to the bottom of the water tank 13. The rib 37e prevents the heat of the sheet metal member 36 heated by the heater 38 from being directly transmitted to the inner wall lower surface 39a and the inner wall upper surface 39b.

  With the above configuration, the sheet metal member 36 is supported and fixed by the inclined rib 51 a and the rib 37 e by covering the sheet metal member insertion opening 37 c with the lid 51 in a state where the sheet metal member 36 is inserted into the heater housing container 37. The Therefore, the sheet metal member 36 is prevented from swinging in the heater housing container 37.

  The heater unit 32 is configured as described above.

[1-2. Operation of washing machine]
Next, the operation of the washing machine according to the present embodiment will be described.

  The user opens the door body 27, puts clothes into the washing / dehydrating tub 15 from the laundry input / exit 26, closes the door body 27, and operates the operation display unit 29 to start the hot water washing course.

  When the washing process is started, the water supply valve 30 is opened, and water is poured into the water tank 13 from the water pouring case 31. The injected water flows into the heater accommodating container 37 from the first drain port 33a and the second drain port 33b at the bottom of the water tank 13.

  Here, in the warm water washing course, a rinsing and dehydrating process is executed after the washing process with heated water by the heater 38 is completed.

  In the warm water washing course, when the water in the water tank 13 reaches a predetermined water level by pouring water into the water tank 13, the heater 38 of the heater unit 32 is turned on. The control device controls the temperature of the washing water by turning the heater 38 on and off according to the temperature of the washing water in the water tank. About the detection method of the water temperature in a tank, [1-5. This will be described in [Method for detecting water temperature in water tank].

  When the water temperature in the water tank 13 reaches a predetermined temperature M1 (for example, 55 ° C.), the heater 38 is turned off. In addition, when the measured water temperature in the water tank falls to a predetermined temperature M2 or lower (for example, 53 ° C. or lower), the heater 38 is turned on. By the above method, the washing water in the water tank 13 can be adjusted to a predetermined water temperature.

  The predetermined temperatures M1 and M2 may be set for each operation course (for example, a sterilization course or a mud dirt course). By changing the predetermined temperatures M1 and M2 depending on the driving course, the washing water can be adjusted to a water temperature suitable for the purpose of each driving course.

  Further, after the hot water washing is completed, the operation of adding water to the washing and dewatering tank 15 and stirring by the pulsator 18 until the water temperature in the water tank 13 becomes a predetermined temperature or lower (for example, 50 ° C. or lower) may be repeated. Good. When the water temperature in the water tank 13 becomes 50 ° C. or lower, the drain valve of the drain cock unit 34 is opened, and the washing water is drained to the outside of the washing machine body 11. When the water temperature in the water tank 13 is equal to or higher than a predetermined temperature (for example, 50 ° C. or higher) and the water level in the water tank 13 reaches a limit, temporary drainage is performed for a predetermined time.

  With the above configuration, drainage can be performed with the water temperature lowered even in an environment in which drainage drips down to the road surface.

  On the other hand, if the outflow path 37g of the heater container 37 is blocked by clothes lint or the like, the flow of water between the heater container 37 and the water tank 13 may be hindered. When the flow of water between the heater container 37 and the water tank 13 is inhibited, it is assumed that the heater unit 32 is overheated even though the water temperature in the water tank is equal to or lower than the predetermined temperature M1. In such a case, when the measured water temperature of the temperature detector 56 that detects the water temperature in the heater container 37 reaches the heater overheat set temperature (for example, 95 ° C.), the heater 38 is controlled to be turned off. Thus, overheating in the heater unit 32 can be prevented.

[1-3. Flow of washing water in the heater unit]
FIG. 10 is a partial cross-sectional perspective view showing the flow of washing water in the heater unit of the washing machine in the first embodiment.

  The flow of the washing water in the heater unit 32 when the heater 38 is turned on in the hot water washing course will be described with reference to FIG.

  An outflow path portion 37g that communicates with the inner bottom portion of the water tank 13 is formed on the base side of the heating portion 38a on the upper surface of the heater housing container 37, and the inner bottom portion of the water tank 13 is formed on the side of the tip of the heating portion 38a on the side surface of the heater housing container 37. A drain cock unit 34 that communicates with is connected.

  The washing water heated in the heater container 37 and having a high water temperature rises in the heater container 37.

  Here, since the distance from the heater 38 is closer to the drain cock connection opening 37a than the outflow path portion 37g, the water temperature in the heater housing container 37 is the drain cock when the heater 38 is turned on. The outflow path portion 37g is higher than the connection opening portion 37a. Therefore, the wash water that has risen in the heater storage container 37 is discharged to the water tank 13 through the outflow path portion 37g as indicated by an arrow D in FIG.

  In order to compensate for the high-temperature washing water discharged from the heater storage container 37 to the water tank 13, the low-temperature and heavy specific washing water in the water tank 13 is upstream of the drain cock upstream of the drain cock of the drain cock unit 34 from the inlet 34a. It passes through the path 34b and flows into the inner bottom portion of the heater container 37 (arrow C in FIG. 10). The washing water flowing into the heater container 37 is heated by effectively using the radiant heat of the heater 38 while flowing from the vicinity of the tip of the heating portion 38a of the heater 38 to the vicinity of the root, so that the washing water is efficiently heated. Can be made.

  As described above, by providing two paths (inlet 34a and outflow path portion 37) for connecting the water tank 13 and the heater container 37 at positions where the distance from the heater 38 is different, the washing water in each path is provided. By utilizing the difference in water temperature, the washing water in the water tank 13 and the washing water in the heater accommodating container 37 can be circulated by natural convection. For this reason, it is possible to reduce the number of parts and reduce the cost without requiring an external force such as a pump.

  Further, since the heater container 37 has a smaller capacity than the water tank 13, the temperature of the washing water in the heater container 37 is higher by the heater 38 than the washing water in the water tank 13, and the water temperature becomes higher. Therefore, bacteria and the like contained in the wash water flowing into the heater container 37 can be effectively sterilized.

  Furthermore, by rotating the pulsator 18 at regular intervals, the washing water in the water tank 13 can be stirred, and the water temperature in the water tank 13 can be made uniform.

  In this Embodiment, the one where the opening area of the 1st drainage port 33a and the 2nd drainage port 33b is large can activate circulation of the wash water with the heater unit 32 and the water tank 13. FIG. However, when the first drainage port 33a and the second drainage port 33b are formed in a perfect circle shape and the opening area is increased, the welding boss 45, the female screw 46, and the like around the first drainage port 33a and the second drainage port 33b. In order to interfere, it is necessary to greatly modify the bottom of the water tank 13.

  Therefore, as shown in FIG. 2, the first drainage port 33a is formed in an approximately elliptical shape, so that the opening area of the first drainage port 33a is increased without changing the positions of the welding boss 45 and the female screw 46. it can. Therefore, it is possible to efficiently circulate the washing water in the water tank 13 and the heater container 37 at a low cost without investing a large amount of molds.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 8, the inner wall lower surface 39a on the bottom side of the heater container 37 is gradually inclined downward from the heater insertion opening 37b toward the drain cock connection opening 37a. With the above configuration, during draining, the washing water in the heater accommodating container 37 flows toward the drain cock connection opening 37a and flows out of the washing machine main body 11 through the drain cock unit 34 and the drain path 41. . Therefore, it is possible to prevent the washing water and foreign matter from staying in the heater container 37 during drainage.

[1-4. Heater unit status check and maintenance method]
There is a possibility that heated water in the heater accommodating container 37 cannot flow out to the water tank 13 when foreign matters such as lint generated from clothing adhere to the heater 38 or block the outflow path portion 37g. . In addition, a problem may occur in the components of the heater unit 32. Therefore, confirmation of the state in the heater unit 32 and repair are needed as needed.

  Below, the state confirmation and the maintenance method in the heater unit 32 are demonstrated.

  In order to check the state of the heater unit 32, the back plate 17 covering the back opening 11a on the rear side of the washing machine body 11 is removed, and the lid of the heater container 37 attached to the bottom of the water tank 13 from the back opening 11a. Remove the body 51. Since the heater container 37 and the lid 51 are fixed by screw fastening, the lid 51 can be removed by removing the screw.

  By the above method, the state of the heater 38 in the heater container 37 can be confirmed from the back surface opening portion 11a of the washing machine body 11, and lint attached to the surface of the heater 38 can be removed as necessary. Therefore, since it is not necessary to attach or detach the lead wire connector connected to the heater 38, the heater 38 can be easily checked and maintained.

  Further, when it is desired to repair or replace the sheet metal member 36, the sheet metal member 36 can be removed by pulling it out from the heater container 37.

  The heater unit 32 and the water tank 13, and the heater unit 32 and the drain cock unit 34 are fastened by screws or the like (not shown) and are detachably attached. With the above configuration, when it is necessary to remove foreign matter that has entered the heater unit 32, or when it is necessary to replace the heater unit 32, the washing machine body 11 is laid down from the bottom of the washing machine body 11. By removing the heater unit 32 from the water tank 13 and the drain cock unit 34, the heater unit 32 alone can be maintained. Further, since only the damaged parts of the heater unit 32 can be maintained, the time and cost required for repair can be reduced.

[1-5. Water temperature detection method in the aquarium]
FIG. 11 is a graph of the water temperature in the heater container of the washing machine and the water temperature in the water tank in the first embodiment.

  When the heater 38 is turned on, the water in the heater container 37 is heated by the heater 38. Since the heater container 37 has a smaller volume than the water tank, the water temperature in the heater container 37 is normally 10 to 40 ° C. higher than the water temperature in the water tank 13, but the heater 38 is turned off for a predetermined time. When the time has elapsed, the water temperature in the water tank 13 and the water temperature in the heater container 37 are gradually made uniform.

  Below, the estimation method of the water temperature in the water tank 13 using the temperature detection part 56 arrange | positioned at the heater 38 is demonstrated.

  In the hot water washing course, the heater unit 32 is turned on when a predetermined water level is reached by pouring water into the water tank 13. The time at this time is Ta0. Next, after a predetermined time has elapsed since the heater 38 was turned on (the time at this time is Ta1), the heater 38 is turned off. After the heater 38 is turned off, the temperature detection unit 56 stores the heater after a predetermined time has elapsed when the water temperature in the heater container 37 and the water temperature in the water tank 13 become substantially uniform (the time at this time is Ta2). By measuring the water temperature of the container 37, the water temperature in the water tank 13 can be estimated.

  It is desirable to calculate the ON time (Ta0 to Ta1) of the heater 38 based on the output of the heater 38, the amount of water in the water tank 13, the amount of clothes, and the like. For example, when the heater output is 1500 W, the amount of water in the water tank 13 is 66 L, the amount of clothing is 5 kg, and heating from an initial water temperature of 20 ° C. to a predetermined temperature of 55 ° C. is about 130 minutes.

  The predetermined time (Ta1 to Ta2) for turning off the heater 38 is preferably 1 to 5 minutes, for example.

  By rotating the pulsator 18 for a predetermined time after the heater 38 is turned off for a predetermined time, the washing water in the water tank 13 is stirred, and the equilibrium of the water temperature difference between the water tank 13 and the heater storage container 37 can be promoted. Therefore, the water temperature difference between the heater container 37 and the water tank 13 is reduced in a short time, and the water temperature in the water tank 13 can be accurately detected.

  By the above method, the temperature of the washing water in the water tub 13 can be adjusted using the temperature detector 56 that measures the water temperature in the heater container 37. Therefore, it is not necessary to provide a water temperature detection part in the water tank, and a low-cost and highly reliable washing machine can be provided.

  Next, a control method for adjusting the wash water in the water tank 13 to a predetermined target set water temperature (for example, 53 ° C.) using the temperature detection unit 56 will be described.

  After the water supply into the water tank 13 is completed, the first energization time of the heater 38 is calculated from the amount of water supplied in the water tank 13 and the water temperature, and the heater 38 is turned on for the first energization time. Here, the heater 38 may continue to be turned ON during the first energization time, or may be intermittently operated.

  Within the first energization time, the temperature rise rate Vt of the wash water in the water tub 13 is calculated from the estimated water temperature of the wash water in the water tub 13 by the temperature detector 56. A second temperature of the heater 38 until the washing water in the water tank reaches the target set water temperature from the water temperature T1 in the water tank 13 after the temperature increase rate Vt and the first energization time end (time Tb1 at this time). The energization time is calculated. Here, the heater 38 may continue to be turned ON during the second energization time, or may be intermittently operated.

After the heater 38 is kept ON for the second energization time, the temperature detection unit 56 estimates the water temperature T2 in the water tank 13 and compares it with the target set water temperature. When the water temperature T2 is lower than the target set water temperature, the heater 38 is turned on for a predetermined time, and the inside of the water tank 13 is estimated again by the temperature detector 56. Water temperature T2
When the temperature is higher than the target set water temperature, the heater 38 is turned off for a predetermined time, and the temperature detection unit 56 estimates the inside of the water tank 13 again.

  By the above method, it is possible to detect the overheating of the heater and adjust the temperature of the washing water in the water tank 13 only by the temperature detection unit 56 provided in the heater container 37. Therefore, a highly reliable washing machine can be provided at a low cost.

(Embodiment 2)
In the washing machine according to the first embodiment, the heater container 37 and the bottom surface of the water tank 13 are connected by two paths, and the heated washing water in the heater container 37 and the washing water in the water tank 13 circulate. The configuration. However, in Embodiment 1, it is necessary to provide the water tank 13 with a plurality of drains. Therefore, the washing machine according to the second embodiment is configured such that the heater container and the bottom of the water tank are connected by one path.

  Hereinafter, the second embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. In addition, FIG. 1 is referred about the longitudinal cross-sectional view of a washing machine.

  The bottom of the water tank 13 of the washing machine according to the first embodiment has the first drain port 33a and the second drain port 33b, but at the bottom of the water tank 113 of the washing machine according to the second embodiment, A drainage port 133 is provided. Since the other structure of the washing machine concerning Embodiment 2 is the same as that of the washing machine concerning Embodiment 1, description is abbreviate | omitted.

[2-1. Heater unit configuration]
12 is an exploded perspective view of the heater unit of the washing machine, FIG. 13 is a sectional view of the bottom of the water tank, the drain cock unit and the heater unit of the washing machine, and FIGS. 14 and 15 are views of the heater unit of the washing machine. It is a perspective view.

  The heater unit 132 of the washing machine according to the second embodiment will be described below.

  As shown in FIG. 12, the heater unit 132 is fixed to the outer bottom portion on the back side of the water tank 113 at a position where the back plate 17 can be removed for maintenance.

  The heater unit 132 includes a substantially rectangular parallelepiped heater accommodating container 137 that is open at both ends in the longitudinal direction, a heater 138 inserted from one opening of the heater accommodating container 137, and the heater accommodating container 137. The sheet metal member 136 is inserted from the other opening and covers the heater 138, and the lid 151 covers the opening into which the sheet metal member 136 is inserted.

  Hereinafter, each component will be described. In addition, since the heater 138 concerning Embodiment 2 is the structure similar to the heater 38 concerning Embodiment 1, description is abbreviate | omitted.

[A. Heater container 137]
The heater container 137 is made of a heat resistant resin and has a substantially rectangular parallelepiped shape with both ends in the longitudinal direction opened.

  A drainage cock connection opening 137 a communicating with the drainage cock unit 134 is provided in the vicinity of the sheet metal member insertion opening 137 c on the side surface in the longitudinal direction of the heater container 137. In the washing machine according to the first embodiment, the cylindrical outflow path portion 37g communicating with the second drainage port 33b at the bottom of the water tank 13 is formed on the upper surface of the heater container 37. However, the heater according to the second embodiment Such a path is not formed in the storage container 137. Other configurations of the heater storage container 137 are the same as the configuration of the heater storage container 37 of the first embodiment.

  As shown in FIG. 12, the drain cock unit 134 is detachably attached to the drain port 133 and the screw at the bottom of the water tank 13. As shown in FIG. 13, a part of the drain cock unit 134 is formed in a substantially L shape extending toward the heater accommodating container 137, and the water tank 113 and the heater accommodating container 137 communicate with each other via the drain cock unit 134. It is connected. As shown in FIG. 13, the drain cock unit 134 is provided with a partition wall 146 that separates a path communicating from the water tank 113 in the drain cock unit 134 to the heater container 137. The partition wall 146 includes a vertical portion 146a and a horizontal portion 146b extending from the lower end of the vertical portion 146a toward the heater 138, and has a substantially L shape. Due to the partition wall 146, the water channel in the drain cock unit 134 has an inflow path 135a located to the left of the vertical portion 146a and below the horizontal portion 146b, and an outflow located above the horizontal portion 146b and to the right of the vertical portion 146a. Separated into a path 135b.

  In the second embodiment, as shown in FIG. 13, the inclination angle of the inner wall upper surface 139b of the heater storage container 137 and the inclination angle of the inner wall lower surface 139a are formed at substantially the same angle. With the above configuration, as shown in FIGS. 14 and 15, even if the heater container 137 is turned upside down, it can be used by being inserted into the bottom of the water tank 113 via the drain cock unit 134. Therefore, the heater unit 132 can be arranged in consideration of the center of gravity of vibration, arrangement of parts, etc. for each washing machine model.

[B. Sheet metal member 136]
As shown in FIG. 12, the sheet metal member 136 surrounding the heater 138 has a substantially rectangular parallelepiped shape with one end in the longitudinal direction opened. The sheet metal member 136 is formed by molding one sheet metal part into a substantially rectangular parallelepiped shape. As shown in FIG. 13, one end of the sheet metal member 136 in the longitudinal direction has a separation portion 136a that is not welded and has a constant gap. A fixing bracket 140 that supports and fixes the heater 138 is welded to the inner surface of the sheet metal member 136. The fixing metal 140 fixes the heater 138 accommodated in the heater container 137 so as not to move.

  The sheet metal member 136 may be configured by, for example, welding two sheet metals by spot welding or the like.

  The method for fixing the sheet metal member 136 and the heater housing container 137 is the same as in the first embodiment.

[C. Lid 151]
As shown in FIG. 13, the lid 151 covers the sheet metal member insertion opening 137c of the heater container 137 so as to be detachable by fastening screws (not shown).

  Although the inclined rib 51a is formed in the lid 51 of the washing machine according to the first embodiment, such a rib is not formed in the lid 151 of the washing machine according to the second embodiment. The other configuration of the lid 151 according to the second embodiment is the same as the configuration of the lid 51 according to the first embodiment.

  The heater unit 132 is configured as described above.

[2-2. Flow of washing water in the heater unit]
FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a flow of washing water in the heater unit of the washing machine according to the second embodiment. A flow of washing water in the heater unit 32 in a state where the heater 38 is turned on in the hot water washing course will be described with reference to FIG.

  As shown in FIG. 12, a drain cock unit 134 communicating with the bottom of the water tank 113 is connected to the side surface in the longitudinal direction of the heater housing 137. As shown in FIG. 13, a partition wall 146 is provided inside the drain cock unit 134. The partition wall 146 is formed in a substantially L shape that extends downward toward the heater 138. Due to the partition wall 146, the low-temperature washing water in the inflow path 135a flowing from the water tank 113 toward the heater storage container 137 and the high-temperature washing water in the outflow path 135b flowing from the heater storage container 137 toward the water tank 113 are Mixing in the drain cock unit 134 can be prevented, and washing water can be circulated efficiently.

  When the heater 138 is turned on in a state where the heater storage container 137 is filled with wash water, the wash water in the heater storage container 137 is heated by the heater 138 and rises in the heater storage container 137, as shown in FIG. As indicated by the arrow B, the water is discharged from the outflow path 135b to the water tank 13.

  On the other hand, in order to make up for the high-temperature washing water discharged from the heater container 137 to the water tank 113, the low-temperature and heavy specific washing water in the water tank 113 passes through the inflow path 135a as shown by the arrow A in FIG. It flows into the container 137. Since the heated washing water in the heater container 137 moves upward, the low-temperature washing water in the water tank 113 easily flows from the inflow path 135a to the bottom of the heater container 137.

  The washing water that has flowed into the heater storage container 137 is heated by the heater 138, rises in the heater storage container 137, and flows out from the outflow path 135b to the water tank 113.

  As described above, the heater housing container 137 and the bottom of the water tank 113 communicate with each other through one path, and the washing water is circulated by natural convection due to the temperature difference of the washing water, so that the heater unit 132 is provided and the non-equipment is provided. Thus, a common mold for the water tank 113 can be used. For this reason, the manufacturing cost at the time of development for implement | achieving a hot water specification function can be held down low. Furthermore, the heater unit 132 can be provided externally as necessary.

  As shown in FIGS. 13 and 16, the upper end portion of the vertical portion 146a is located above the inflow port 134a. By setting it as the said structure, since it can suppress that the high-temperature washing water discharged | emitted from the outflow path 135b into the water tank 113 enters the inflow path 135a, the washing water in a water tank can be heated efficiently.

  Further, by rotating the pulsator 18 at regular time intervals, the washing water in the water tank 113 is agitated, and the water temperature in the water tank 113 and the water temperature in the heater container can be made uniform in a short time.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 16, the inner wall upper surface 39b on the water tank 13 side (upper side) of the heater container 137 gradually moves toward the water tank side (upper side) from the heater insertion opening 37b toward the drain cock connection opening 137a. Inclined. With the above configuration, when the washing water is supplied into the heater container 37, the air accumulated in the heater container 37 is easily discharged from the heater container 37 toward the water tank 13. Therefore, air accumulation in the heater accommodating container 37 can be prevented, and the risk of emptying can be reduced.

(Other embodiments)
As described above, Embodiments 1 and 2 have been described as examples of the technology disclosed in the present application. However, the technology in the present disclosure is not limited to this, and can also be applied to embodiments that have been changed, replaced, added, omitted, and the like. Moreover, it is also possible to combine each component demonstrated in the said Embodiment 1, 2 and it can also be set as a new embodiment.

  Therefore, other embodiments will be exemplified below.

  In the first embodiment, the drainage cock unit 34 and the outflow path portion 37g formed in the heater accommodating container 37 constitute the connecting path between the water tank 13 and the heater accommodating container 37, but the present invention is not limited to this. It is not something. For example, an inflow path portion and an outflow path portion may be formed in the heater accommodating container 37, and the water tank 13 and the heater accommodating container 37 may be directly communicated without using the drain cock unit 34. At that time, the drain cock unit 34 may be connected to the bottom surface or the side surface of the heater housing container 37 in a state where the heater housing container 37 is attached to the bottom of the water tank 13. Three or more connection paths between the water tank 13 and the heater storage container 37 may be provided.

  In the first embodiment, the first drainage port 33a is formed in a substantially elliptical shape, but the second drainage port 33b may be formed in a substantially elliptical shape, or the first drainage port 33a and the second drainage port 33a. The drain port 33b may be substantially elliptical.

  In the second embodiment, a connection path is constituted by the drain cock unit 134 between the water tank 113 and the heater storage container 137, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the water tank 113 and the heater container 137 may be directly communicated with each other without the drain cock unit 134 by forming a path portion communicating with the drain outlet at the bottom of the water tank 113 in the heater container 137. In that case, it is good to arrange | position a partition wall inside a channel | path part. Further, the path portion of the heater container 137 is formed in a substantially L shape, and the side surface of the heater container 137 is communicated with the bottom surface of the water tank 113, so that the low-temperature washing water in the water tank 113 is heated from the inflow path 135a to the heater. It becomes easy to flow into the container 137 bottom side. In addition, the drain cock unit 134 may be connected to the bottom surface or the side surface of the heater container 137 in a state where the heater container 137 is attached to the bottom of the water tank 113.

  In the second embodiment, the configuration in which the upper end portion of the vertical portion 146a of the partition wall 146 is positioned above the inflow port 134a has been described. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the upper end portion of the vertical portion 146a. May be located below the inlet 134a.

  In the first and second embodiments, the lids 51 and 151 are provided in the rear opening 11 a of the washing machine body 11 of the heater container 37 in a state where the heater units 32 and 132 are attached to the outer bottom surfaces of the water tanks 13 and 113. Explained the configuration. The lid 51 only needs to be provided in a direction in which there is an openable / closable opening of the washing machine main body 11 in the heater accommodating container 37. Therefore, the openings of the heater storage containers 37 and 137 that are opened and closed by the lids 51 and 151 may be formed on the front side of the washing machine body 11 or may be formed on the side surface side of the washing machine body 11.

  Although Embodiment 1 and 2 demonstrated the vertical type washing machine as an example of a washing machine, this invention is not limited to this, A drum type washing machine may be sufficient.

  Note that the above-described embodiments are for illustrating the technique in the present disclosure, and thus various modifications, replacements, additions, omissions, and the like can be made within the scope of the claims or an equivalent scope thereof.

  As described above, the washing machine according to the present invention can be applied not only to home use but also to a business use washing machine.

11 Washing machine body 11a Rear opening (inspection port)
DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 12 Suspension 13 Water tank 14 Washing / dehydrating shaft 15 Washing / dehydrating tank 17 Back plate 16 Fluid balancer 18 Pulsator 20 Transmission mechanism 21 Motor 22 Motor side pulley 23 Mechanical side pulley 24 Belt 25 Upper frame body 26 Laundry loading / unloading port 27 Door Body 29 Operation display section 30 Water supply valve 31 Water injection case 32 Heater unit 33a First drain outlet 33b Second drain outlet 34 Drain cock unit 34a Inlet 34b Drain cock front path 34c Drain path side opening 36 Sheet metal member 36a Spacing section 37 Heater container 37a Drain cock connection opening 37b Heater insertion opening 37c Sheet metal member insertion opening 37d Strip rib 37e Rib 37g Outflow path section 38 Heater 38a Heating section 38b Terminal section 38c Connection section 38d Flexible member 39a Inner wall bottom 3 b inner wall upper surface 40 supporting piece 41 drainage path 42 spot welds 43 nut 44 bolt 51 lid 51a inclined rib 56 temperature detector

Claims (3)

The washing machine body,
A water tank supported inside the washing machine body and having a drain outlet at the bottom,
A drain cock unit connected to the drain port of the water tank;
A heater unit connected to the drain cock unit and communicating with the inner bottom of the water tank;
A heater built in the heater unit for heating the washing water;
A thermistor disposed near the heater for measuring the water temperature in the heater unit;
A controller that controls the wash water in the water tub to a predetermined target set water temperature using the heater;
The controller estimates the water temperature in the aquarium from the temperature measured by the thermistor,
The first energization time of the heater is determined from the temperature and amount of water supplied to the water tank, and the temperature increase rate in the water tank within the first energization time is calculated by the thermistor, A washing machine that calculates a second energization time of the heater until the washing water in the water tank reaches the target set water temperature from a temperature increase rate and a water temperature in the water tank after the first energization time. The said control part is a washing machine which estimates the water temperature in the said water tank based on the temperature measured by the thermistor after predetermined time progress after the heater energization completion. A washing and dewatering tank disposed rotatably inside the water tank;
A pulsator rotatably disposed at a central fixed portion of the washing and dewatering tub,
The washing machine according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the washing water in the water tank and the washing water in the heater unit are agitated by rotation of the pulsator at a predetermined time interval.

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