JP2018138151A - Washing machine - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a washing machine in which a possibility that dust such as lint contained in water is caught by the circulation pump is reduced.SOLUTION: The washing machine comprises: an outer tub; an inner tub provided in the outer tub so as to communicate with the inside of the outer tub; a circulation path 70 connected to the outer tub so as to circulate water in the outer tub; and a circulation pump 90 comprising a circulation motor 92 comprising an output shaft 92A and an impeller 91 provided on the output shaft 92A and forming a flow of water in the circulation path 70 by rotating the impeller 91. The washing machine further comprises: a case 93 in which the impeller 91 is accommodated and which comprises a bottom face 93A positioned below the impeller 91; and an adjustment structure 100 for adjusting a position of the impeller 91 with respect to the bottom face 93A such that a distance between the impeller 91 and the bottom face 93A when a rotation of the circulation motor 92 is at a stop is narrower than a distance between the impeller 91 and the bottom face 93A when the circulation motor 92 rotates.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 6

Description

  The present invention relates to a washing machine.

  A washing machine having a function of circulating water in an outer tub is known. As an example, the washing machine disclosed in Patent Document 1 includes a common path connected to an opening provided at the bottom of the outer tub, a circulation path and a drain path branched from the common path, a valve provided in the drain path, and a circulation A circulation pump provided in the middle of the road is provided. The downstream part of the circulation path is connected to an opening provided in the upper part of the outer tub. When the circulation pump is driven, water in the outer tub passes through the common path and the circulation path, and is circulated from the opening of the outer tub to the upper portion of the outer tub. When the drainage channel valve is opened, the water in the outer tub passes through the common channel and the drainage channel and is drained outside the washing machine.

JP 2007-29205 A

  When a flow of water is formed in the circulation path in a state where the circulation pump is stopped, dust such as lint contained in the water may be caught on the output shaft of the circulation pump and its bearings.

  One aspect of the washing machine according to the present invention is connected to the outer tub so that the outer tub, the inner tub provided in the outer tub so as to communicate with the inside of the outer tub, and the water in the outer tub can be circulated. A circulation pump, a motor including an output shaft, and an impeller provided on the output shaft, the circulation pump forming a flow of water in the circulation path by rotating the impeller, and the impeller are accommodated A case including a bottom surface located below the impeller, and an interval between the impeller and the bottom surface when the rotation of the motor is stopped, the impeller and the bottom surface when the motor is rotating And an adjustment structure that adjusts the position of the impeller with respect to the bottom surface so as to be narrower than the interval of.

  According to the washing machine of the present invention, wastes such as lint contained in water are not easily caught by the circulation pump.

The schematic diagram of the washing machine of embodiment. The block diagram of the washing machine of FIG. The perspective view which shows the inside of the detergent case of FIG. The top view which shows the inside of the outer tank of FIG. 1, and an inner tank. The perspective view which shows the circulation pump of FIG. 1, and its periphery. FIG. 6 is an operation diagram showing a relationship between the impeller of FIG. 5 and a circulation motor. The map which shows an example of operation | movement of the circulation pump in various washing courses. The time chart which shows an example of operation | movement of the washing course in a 1st use state. The time chart which shows an example of operation | movement of the washing course in a 2nd use state.

(An example of the form that the washing machine can take)
(1) One aspect of the washing machine according to the present invention is an outer tub, an inner tub provided in the outer tub so as to communicate with the inside of the outer tub, and the outer tub so that water in the outer tub can be circulated. A circulation path connected to the tank; a motor including an output shaft; and an impeller provided on the output shaft, the circulation pump forming a flow of water in the circulation path by rotating the impeller, and the impeller And a case including a bottom surface located below the impeller, and an interval between the impeller and the bottom surface when the rotation of the motor is stopped, and the impeller when the motor is rotating And an adjustment structure that adjusts the position of the impeller with respect to the bottom surface so as to be narrower than the distance from the bottom surface.

  When the motor stops rotating, the distance between the impeller and the bottom surface becomes narrow, so if water flow is formed in the circulation path when the motor is not rotating, lint and other debris are collected from the impeller and the bottom surface. It becomes difficult to enter between.

  (2) According to an example of the washing machine, the adjustment structure includes the motor. Since the motor serves as a drive source for rotating the impeller and a mechanism for adjusting the position of the impeller, the configuration of the apparatus is simplified.

  (3) According to an example of the washing machine, the motor includes a rotor and a stator disposed below the bottom surface, the rotor is connected to the output shaft, and the adjustment structure is configured such that the stator has an electromagnetic force. As the rotor moves downwardly away from the bottom surface, the impeller approaches the bottom surface, and as the stator generates electromagnetic force, the rotor approaches the bottom surface. The motor includes the motor configured to move the impeller away from the bottom surface by moving upward. Since the mechanism for adjusting the position of the impeller is configured by the relationship between the rotor and the stator, the configuration of the motor is simplified.

  (4) According to an example of the washing machine, the adjustment structure includes the motor configured such that the impeller comes into contact with the bottom surface when the stator does not generate electromagnetic force. For this reason, when a flow of water is formed in the circulation path in a state where the motor is not rotating, dust such as lint becomes more difficult to enter between the impeller and the bottom surface.

(Embodiment)
A washing machine 1 shown in FIG. 1 is a vertical washing machine used for washing clothes. The washing machine 1 is used by being installed on a flat installation surface such as a floor surface (not shown). The washing machine 1 is driven by electric power supplied from an external power source (not shown) such as a commercial power source. In one example, the washing machine 1 is connected to an external power source with a power cord (not shown), so that the electric power of the external power source is supplied to various electrical elements constituting the washing machine 1. FIG. 1 shows a cross section of the washing machine 1 along a direction orthogonal to the width direction of the washing machine 1.

  The washing machine 1 includes a main body 10, an outer tub 20, and an inner tub 30. The main body 10 constitutes the appearance of the washing machine 1. The main body 10 includes a housing 11, a first opening 12, a main body lid 13, an operation unit 14, and a display unit 15. The housing 11 accommodates the outer tub 20 and the inner tub 30. An example of the material constituting the housing 11 is a metal material. An example of the shape of the housing 11 is a substantially rectangular parallelepiped. The first opening 12 is provided on the top surface 11A of the housing 11, for example. The first opening 12 has a size that allows clothes to be taken in and out. The body lid 13 is provided in the housing 11 so that the first opening 12 can be opened and closed.

  The top surface 11A of the housing 11 includes an inclined surface 11B. The inclined surface 11B is provided on the back side of the washing machine 1 with respect to the first opening 12 on the top surface 11A, for example, and is inclined so as to increase from the front side to the back side of the washing machine 1. The operation unit 14 and the display unit 15 are provided on the inclined surface 11B, for example. The function of the operation unit 14 is to input various information related to the operation of the washing machine 1. In one example, the operation unit 14 includes a function of switching the power of the washing machine 1 on and off. The function of the display unit 15 is to display various information related to the operation of the washing machine 1.

  The outer tub 20 is fixed in the housing 11 of the main body 10. The outer tub 20 includes a housing 21, a second opening 22, and an outer tub lid 23. The housing 21 accommodates the inner tank 30. An example of the material constituting the housing 21 is a resin material. An example of the resin material is polypropylene. An example of the shape of the housing 21 is a substantially cylindrical shape. The second opening 22 is provided, for example, on the top surface 21 </ b> A of the housing 21 and faces the first opening 12. The second opening 22 has a size that allows clothes to be taken in and out. The outer tank lid 23 is provided in the housing 21 so that the second opening 22 can be opened and closed.

  The inner tank 30 is provided in the outer tank 20 so as to communicate with the inside of the outer tank 20. The inner tank 30 is rotatable with respect to the outer tank 20. The inner tank 30 includes a housing 31, a third opening 32, and a plurality of communication holes 33. The housing 31 includes an accommodation space 31B that can accommodate clothing. An example of the material constituting the housing 31 is a metal material. An example of the metal material is stainless steel. An example of the shape of the housing 31 is a substantially cylindrical shape. The third opening 32 is provided, for example, on the top surface 31 </ b> A of the housing 31 and faces the second opening 22. The third opening 32 has a size that allows clothes to be taken in and out. In the state where the main body lid 13 and the outer tub lid 23 are opened, clothes are put in and out through the first opening 12, the second opening 22, and the third opening 32. The plurality of communication holes 33 are provided on the outer peripheral surface 31 </ b> C of the housing 31 so as to communicate, for example, the accommodation space 31 </ b> B and the inside of the outer tank 20.

  The washing machine 1 further includes a detergent case 40, a water supply pipe 50, and a water supply hose 60. The function of the detergent case 40 is to accommodate a washing agent and a softening agent. For example, the detergent case 40 is provided above the outer tub 20 in the housing 11 of the main body 10. The function of the water supply pipe 50 is to supply water supplied from a water supply source (not shown) into the outer tank 20 and the inner tank 30. An example of a water supply source is a faucet. The water supply pipe 50 is connected to the detergent case 40 so that water is supplied into the detergent case 40, for example. The water supply pipe 50 includes a water supply valve 55 (see FIG. 2). The function of the water supply valve 55 is to adjust the amount of water supplied from the water supply pipe 50. The function of the water supply hose 60 is to supply water supplied into the detergent case 40 into the outer tub 20 and the inner tub 30. For example, the water supply hose 60 connects the detergent case 40 and the outer tub 20. The water flowing through the water supply pipe 50 is supplied into the detergent case 40, mixed with the washing agent and softener in the detergent case 40 and supplied to the water supply hose 60, and from the water supply port 61 of the water supply hose 60 to the outer tub 20 and the inside. Water is supplied into the tank 30.

  The outer tub 20 further includes an upper opening 24, a lower opening 25, and a drain opening 26. The upper opening 24 is provided on the top surface 21 </ b> A of the housing 21, for example. For example, the water supply hose 60 is connected to the upper opening 24 of the outer tub 20. The lower opening 25 is provided in the bottom 21B of the housing 21, for example. The drain opening 26 is provided in the bottom 21B of the housing 21, for example.

  The washing machine 1 further includes a circulation path 70, a drainage path 80, and a circulation pump 90. The function of the circulation pump 90 is to form a flow of water in the circulation path 70. The circulation pump 90 is provided in the circulation path 70, for example. Circulation pump 90 includes an impeller 91, a circulation motor 92, and a case 93. Circulation motor 92 includes an output shaft 92A. The impeller 91 is provided on the output shaft 92A. The impeller 91 is accommodated in the case 93. The circulation pump 90 rotates the impeller 91 to form a water flow in the circulation path 70.

  The circulation path 70 is connected to the outer tub 20 so that the water in the outer tub 20 can be circulated. The circulation path 70 is connected to, for example, the upper opening 24 and the lower opening 25. The circulation path 70 includes a first circulation path 71 and a second circulation path 72. The first circulation path 71 connects the lower opening 25 and the case 93 of the circulation pump 90. The second circulation path 72 connects the case 93 of the circulation pump 90 and the detergent case 40. In one example, the circulation path 70 includes a first circulation path 71, a case 93 of the circulation pump 90, a second circulation path 72, a part of the detergent case 40, and the water supply hose 60.

  The drainage channel 80 is connected to the outer tub 20 so that the water in the outer tub 20 can be drained. The drainage channel 80 is connected to the drainage opening 26, for example. The drainage channel 80 includes a first drainage valve 81. The first drain valve 81 is opened, for example, when water in the outer tub 20 and the inner tub 30 is drained. Since the lower opening 25 and the upper opening 24 to which the circulation path 70 is connected and the drain opening 26 to which the drainage path 80 is connected are formed individually, characteristics relating to flowing water in the circulation path 70 and drainage The load applied to the design for determining the characteristics relating to the flowing water in the path 80 is reduced. The characteristics regarding flowing water include, for example, the flow rate of water flowing through the circulation path 70 and the drainage path 80.

  The distance between the upper opening 24 and the lower opening 25 is longer than the distance between the upper opening 24 and the drain opening 26. When the circulation pump 90 is driven, the water in the outer tub 20 flows from the lower opening 25 to the circulation path 70 and is supplied again from the upper opening 24 into the outer tub 20, so that the outer tub 20, the inner tub 30, And water circulates through the circulation path 70. The washing machine 1 is formed in the outer tub 20 and the inner tub 30 by circulating water because the distance between the upper opening 24 and the lower opening 25 is longer than the distance between the upper opening 24 and the drain opening 26. The flow path is longer. For this reason, the water in the inner tank 30 is easily stirred uniformly by the circulating water.

  The upper opening 24 and the lower opening 25 sandwich the center of the outer tub 20, the center of the inner tub 30, and the center of a balancer (not shown) provided in the inner tub 30 in a plan view of the washing machine 1. The function of the balancer is to balance the weight of clothes housed in the inner tub 30. The balancer is provided in an annular shape along the edge of the third opening 32 in the inner tank 30, for example. In this configuration, since the distance between the upper opening 24 and the lower opening 25 becomes longer, the flow path formed in the outer tank 20 and the inner tank 30 by the circulating water becomes longer. For this reason, the water in the inner tank 30 is easily stirred uniformly by the circulating water.

  The upper opening 24 is provided in a portion of the outer tub 20 near the back surface of the washing machine 1. The lower opening 25 is provided in a portion of the outer tub 20 near the front of the washing machine 1. In this configuration, the water supplied from the upper opening 24 into the outer tub 20 flows obliquely from the upper portion toward the lower portion in the inner tub 30, so that the water in the inner tub 30 is more easily stirred. Further, the drain opening 26 is provided in a portion of the outer tub 20 near the back of the washing machine 1. For this reason, when the exit (not shown) of the drainage channel 80 is pulled out to the back side of the washing machine 1, the length of the drainage channel 80 in the washing machine 1 can be shortened.

  The washing machine 1 further includes a closing portion 74. The closing part 74 is provided in the circulation path 70. The function of the closing part 74 is to block the air flow in the circulation path 70 when the circulation pump 90 is stopped. Since the air flow in the circulation path 70 is blocked by the closing portion 74, it is possible to suppress the water in the circulation path 70 from being returned to the outer tub 20 unnecessarily. Further, the closing portion 74 is provided on the downstream side of the circulation pump 90 in the circulation path 70. In one example, the closing portion 74 is provided in the second circulation path 72. Since the flow of moisture in the circulation pump 90 is blocked by the closing portion 74, it is further suppressed that the moisture in the circulation path 70 is returned to the outer tank 20 unnecessarily.

  The closing part 74 includes a drain trap 74A. For this reason, when the operation of the circulation pump 90 stops, water accumulates in the drain trap 74A, and the air flow in the circulation path 70 is blocked. Thus, since the function of the closing part 74 is expressed without supplying electric energy to the closing part 74, the power consumption in the washing machine 1 is reduced. An example of the shape of the drain trap 74A is substantially U-shaped.

  The washing machine 1 further includes a circulation drainage channel 75. The circulation drainage channel 75 connects the circulation channel 70 and the drainage channel 80 so that the water in the circulation channel 70 can be drained. In one example, the circulation drainage channel 75 connects the case 93 of the circulation pump 90 and the drainage channel 80. The circulation drainage channel 75 includes a second drainage valve 76. For example, the second drain valve 76 is closed when the circulation pump 90 is driven, and is opened so that the water in the circulation path 70 is drained when the operation of the circulation pump 90 is stopped.

  The washing machine 1 further includes a pulsator 110 and a drive unit 120. The function of the pulsator 110 is to stir the water in the inner tank 30. The pulsator 110 is provided at the bottom 31D of the housing 31 so as to be rotatable with respect to the inner tank 30, for example. In one example, the pulsator 110 is provided to be rotatable about the center of the inner tub 30 in a plan view of the washing machine 1. The pulsator 110 includes a plurality of blades 111 and a base 112. The plurality of blades 111 are formed on the base 112 so as to rise from the base 112. An example of the number of the plurality of blades 111 is four. An example of the shape of the blade 111 is an unequal triangle.

  The drive unit 120 is driven to stir the water in the inner tank 30. The drive unit 120 includes a washing motor 121 and a switching unit 122 (see FIG. 2). An output shaft (not shown) of the washing motor 121 is connected to the inner tub 30 and the pulsator 110 via the switching unit 122. An example of the switching unit 122 is a clutch. When the washing motor 121 and the inner tub 30 are connected by the switching unit 122, the inner tub 30 rotates with respect to the outer tub 20 by driving the washing motor 121. When the washing motor 121 and the pulsator 110 are connected by the switching unit 122, the pulsator 110 rotates with respect to the inner tank 30 by driving the washing motor 121, and the water in the inner tank 30 is agitated.

  The washing machine 1 further includes a drying path 130 and a drying machine 140. The drying path 130 is connected to the outer tub 20 so that warm air can be supplied into the inner tub 30. In one example, the drying path 130 connects the outer tub 20 and the drainage path 80. The function of the dryer 140 is to dry the clothes in the inner tub 30. The dryer 140 is provided in the drying path 130, for example. The dryer 140 is driven when the circulation pump 90 is stopped. Since the dryer 140 is driven in a state where the air flow in the circulation path 70 is blocked by the closing portion 74, the clothes can be efficiently dried.

  In addition, water vapor generated from the clothing in the process of drying the clothing may pass through the circulation path 70 and leak from the outer tub 20. In one example, it is conceivable that water vapor that has flowed into the detergent case 40 leaks from a gap formed between the detergent case 40 and its lid (not shown). In this example, there is a possibility that water vapor leaked from the outer tub 20 may adhere to various electrical elements constituting the washing machine 1. In the washing machine 1, since the water vapor generated from the clothing is blocked by the closing portion 74 in the process of passing through the circulation path 70, the risk of the water vapor leaking from the outer tub 20 is reduced.

  As shown in FIG. 2, the dryer 140 includes a blower 141, a fan motor 142, and a heater 143. The function of the blower 141 is to generate wind so that the air in the drying path 130 circulates. The blower 141 is, for example, a vortex fan having four blades. The function of the fan motor 142 is to rotate the blower 141. An output shaft (not shown) of the fan motor 142 is connected to the blower 141. The function of the heater 143 is to warm the air in the drying path 130. In one example, the heater 143 is provided on the downstream side of the blower 141 in the drying path 130. When the fan motor 142 is driven, the blower 141 is rotated, and the wind generated by the blower 141 is heated by the heater 143, whereby hot air is supplied into the inner tank 30 through the outer tank 20.

  The washing machine 1 further includes a control device 150. The control device 150 is provided, for example, in the main body 10 of the washing machine 1 (see FIG. 1). The function of the control device 150 is to control various operations related to the washing machine 1 based on the operation of the operation unit 14. The control device 150 controls the drive unit 120, the circulation pump 90, the dryer 140, the water supply valve 55, the first drain valve 81, the second drain valve 76, and the like based on the operation of the operation unit 14, for example.

With reference to FIG. 3, the structure of the detergent case 40 and the water supply pipe 50 is demonstrated.
The detergent case 40 includes a first housing part 41, a second housing part 42, a joining channel 43, and a joining opening 44. The function of the 1st accommodating part 41 is accommodating a washing | cleaning agent. In one example, the washing agent is put into the first housing portion 41 from the outside of the washing machine 1. The function of the 2nd accommodating part 42 is accommodating a softening agent. In one example, the softening agent is put into the second storage portion 42 from the outside of the washing machine 1. The function of the combined flow path 43 is to join water supplied from the water supply pipe 50, the washing agent stored in the first storage unit 41, the softening agent stored in the second storage unit 42, and the like. The combined flow path 43 is connected to each of the first storage portion 41 and the second storage portion 42. The merge opening 44 is provided on the downstream side of the merge channel 43 and is connected to the water supply hose 60 (see FIG. 1).

  The water supply pipe 50 includes a first pipe 51, a second pipe 52, a third pipe 53, and a common pipe 54. The first pipe 51, the second pipe 52, and the third pipe 53 are branched from the common pipe 54. When a valve (not shown) is provided in each of the first pipe 51, the second pipe 52, and the third pipe 53, water flow and closing to the pipes 51 to 53 are individually controlled by the valves. The first pipe 51 includes a first supply port 51A. For example, the first supply port 51A faces the first accommodating portion 41. The water flowing through the first pipe 51 is supplied to the first storage part 41 via the first supply port 51 </ b> A, mixed with the washing agent stored in the first storage part 41, and flows into the combined flow path 43. The second pipe 52 includes a second supply port 52A. The second supply port 52A faces, for example, the second storage portion 42. The water flowing through the second pipe 52 is supplied to the second storage portion 42 via the second supply port 52A, and is mixed with the softening agent stored in the second storage portion 42 and flows into the combined flow path 43.

  The third pipe 53 includes a shower nozzle 53A. For example, the shower nozzle 53 </ b> A is opposed to a portion on the downstream side of a portion where the water supplied to the first storage portion 41 and the second storage portion 42 merges in the combined flow path 43. By supplying the water flowing through the third pipe 53 to the combined flow path 43 via the shower nozzle 53A, water containing at least one of the washing agent and the softening agent is easily foamed. For example, in the detergent case 40, the second circulation path 72 is connected to a portion of the combined flow path 43 on the downstream side of the portion that merges with the water supplied from the shower nozzle 53 </ b> A. When the water flowing through the second circulation path 72 joins with the water flowing through the combined flow path 43, the water containing at least one of the washing agent and the softening agent is easily foamed.

The relationship between the lower opening 25 and the drain opening 26 will be described with reference to FIG.
The lower opening 25 and the drain opening 26 sandwich the center of the outer tub 20, the center of the inner tub 30, the center of the pulsator 110, and the center of a balancer (not shown) in a plan view of the washing machine 1. In this configuration, since the distance between the lower opening 25 and the drain opening 26 is increased, the foreign matter that is shed by the water flow from the drain opening 26 toward the drainage channel 80 does not easily flow into the lower opening 25. For this reason, it is difficult for foreign matter to enter the circulation path 70.

  The area of the lower opening 25 is smaller than the area of the drain opening 26. For this reason, it is difficult for foreign matter such as coins to flow into the circulation path 70. An example of a coin is a coin. The circulation path 70 includes a filter 73. The filter 73 is provided in the lower opening 25, for example. The filter 73 is formed so that coins cannot pass through. For this reason, it is difficult for foreign matter such as coins to enter the circulation pump 90 (see FIG. 1) provided in the circulation path 70. The drainage channel 80 does not include a filter. For this reason, the resistance of the water in the drainage channel 80 is reduced, and the drainage is improved.

  As shown in FIG. 5, the filter 73 includes a first hole 73A, a second hole 73B, and a connection hole 73C. An example of the shape of the first hole 73A in the plan view of the inner tank 30 is a circle. The shape of the second hole 73B is substantially the same as the shape of the first hole 73A. The first hole 73A and the second hole 73B are formed so that coins cannot pass therethrough and dust separated from clothes due to washing can pass therethrough. Since the first hole 73A and the second hole 73B are formed in the filter 73, the resistance of water in the filter 73 is reduced. In addition, since the dust passes through the holes 73A and 73B, the possibility that the passage area of the circulation path 70 becomes narrow due to the accumulation of dust is reduced.

  The connection hole 73C is formed so that the first hole 73A and the second hole 73B are connected. In this configuration, when the first part including one end of the waste thread flows into the first hole 73A and the second part including the other end of the waste thread flows into the second hole 73B, A third portion between the first portion and the second portion of the lint can flow into the connecting hole 73C. For this reason, lint is not easily caught on the filter 73.

  The impeller 91 includes a plurality of blades 91A and a base 91B. The plurality of blades 91A extend radially from the base 91B. An example of the number of the plurality of blades 91A is four. An example of the shape of the blade 91A is a rectangle. In one example, the base 91B is attached to the output shaft 92A of the circulation motor 92, whereby the impeller 91 is fixed to the output shaft 92A.

The configuration of the circulation motor 92 will be described with reference to FIG.
The washing machine 1 further includes an adjustment structure 100. In the adjustment structure 100, the distance between the impeller 91 and the bottom surface 93A of the case 93 when the rotation of the circulation motor 92 is stopped is narrower than the distance between the impeller 91 and the bottom surface 93A when the circulation motor 92 is rotating. The position of the impeller 91 with respect to the bottom surface 93A is adjusted so that it becomes. A bottom surface 93 </ b> A of the case 93 is positioned below the impeller 91. When the portion of the case 93 that faces the lower side of the impeller 91 is open, the top surface of the circulation motor 92 forms the bottom surface of the case 93.

  The adjustment structure 100 includes a circulation motor 92. Circulation motor 92 further includes a rotor 92B and a stator 92C. The rotor 92B and the stator 92C are disposed below the bottom surface 93A of the case 93. The rotor 92B is connected to the output shaft 92A. When the stator 92C generates an electromagnetic force, the circulation motor 92 is driven, and when the stator 92C loses the electromagnetic force, the circulation motor 92 stops.

  The circulating motor 92 causes the impeller 91 to approach the bottom surface 93A as the rotor 92B moves away from the bottom surface 93A as the stator 92C loses electromagnetic force, and the stator 92C generates electromagnetic force. At the same time, the rotor 92B moves upward so as to approach the bottom surface 93A, so that the impeller 91 can be separated from the bottom surface 93A. In one example, when the electromagnetic force of the stator 92C disappears, the impeller 91 approaches the bottom surface 93A due to the weight of the impeller 91. A two-dot chain line in FIG. 6 shows a state in which the impeller 91 approaches the bottom surface 93A.

  When the rotation of the circulation motor 92 is stopped, the distance between the impeller 91 and the bottom surface 93A is narrowed. Therefore, when a flow of water is formed in the circulation path 70 in a state where the circulation motor 92 is not rotating, the lint is lost. Or the like becomes difficult to enter between the impeller 91 and the bottom surface 93A. For this reason, dust such as lint contained in water is not easily caught by the circulation pump 90. Further, since the circulation motor 92 serves as a drive source for rotating the impeller 91 and a mechanism for adjusting the position of the impeller 91, the configuration of the apparatus is simplified. In addition, since the mechanism for adjusting the position of the impeller 91 is configured by the relationship between the rotor 92B and the stator 92C, the configuration of the circulation motor 92 is simplified.

  Circulation motor 92 is configured such that impeller 91 contacts bottom surface 93A when stator 92C does not generate electromagnetic force. For this reason, when a flow of water is formed in the circulation path 70 in a state where the circulation motor 92 is not rotating, dust such as lint becomes more difficult to enter between the impeller 91 and the bottom surface 93A.

An example of the operation of the control device 150 will be described with reference to FIG.
The control device 150 stores a plurality of washing courses related to washing clothes. The washing course includes at least a water supply period SP and a washing period WP (see FIG. 8). The water supply period SP is a period during which water is supplied into the inner tank 30 from the water supply source. Specifically, the water supply period SP is a period from the start of water supply into the inner tank 30 from the water supply source until the water level in the inner tank 30 reaches the washing water level WL. The washing water level WL is, for example, the water level of the inner tub 30 suitable for washing, and is set in advance based on the amount of clothes accommodated in the inner tub 30. The washing period WP is a period during which the clothes in the inner tub 30 are washed after the water supply period SP. In the plurality of washing courses, for example, the operations of the circulation pump 90 and the drive unit 120 in the water supply period SP are substantially the same, and the operations of the circulation pump 90 in the washing period WP are different from each other. The control device 150 executes the washing course selected based on the operation of the operation unit 14.

  The control device 150 controls the circulation pump 90 in the water supply period SP. The water supply period SP includes a first period SP1, a second period SP2, and a third period SP3 (see FIG. 8). The first period SP1 is a period during which the circulation pump 90 is driven. The second period SP2 is a period in which the circulation pump 90 stops after the first period SP1, or the circulation pump 90 is driven with a driving force weaker than the driving force in the first period SP1 after the first period SP1. . The second period SP2 includes a point in time when the water level in the inner tub 30 reaches the washing water level WL.

  In the first period SP1, a flow of water circulating through the outer tank 20, the inner tank 30, and the circulation path 70 is formed as the circulation pump 90 is driven, and bubbles are generated in the outer tank 20 and the inner tank 30. . When the circulation pump 90 stops in the second period SP2, water does not circulate through the path including the circulation path 70, so that the force for generating bubbles in the outer tank 20 and the inner tank 30 is weakened. When the circulation pump 90 is driven with a weak driving force in the second period SP2, the strength of the circulating water becomes weak, so that bubbles are not easily generated in the outer tank 20 and the inner tank 30. Thus, in the second period SP2 in which the water levels in the outer tub 20 and the inner tub 30 are higher than in the first period SP1, a state in which bubbles are less likely to be generated is formed, so that the bubbles may overflow from the outer tub 20. Is reduced. Further, since the circulation pump 90 is stopped or the circulation pump 90 is driven with a weak driving force at the washing water level WL in which the water level in the outer tub 20 and the inner tub 30 is the highest, from the outer tub 20. The risk of overflowing bubbles is further reduced. In one example, the second period SP2 is a period in which the circulation pump 90 stops after the first period SP1.

  The problem of foam overflowing from the outer tub occurs mainly in a washing machine including a circulation path. The washing machine of the first example (hereinafter referred to as “first washing machine”) does not include the outer tub lid and the drying path. In the first washing machine, when a large amount of foam is generated in the inner tub, the foam accumulates on the water surface in the outer tub and the inner tub, and the foam overflows through the second opening of the outer tub. It is done. The washing machine of the second example (hereinafter referred to as “second washing machine”) includes an outer tub lid and does not include a drying path. Since the outer tub lid of the second washing machine is not used for the purpose of confining the clothes in the inner tub and drying with the dryer, the second opening of the outer tub is not properly sealed by the outer tub lid, or the outer tub lid In many cases, slits are formed on the surface. For this reason, when a large amount of foam is generated in the inner tank, the foam accumulates on the water surface in the outer tank and the inner tank, and the gap between the housing of the outer tank and the outer tank lid, or the slit of the outer tank lid It is conceivable that bubbles overflow through The washing machine of the third example (hereinafter “third washing machine”) includes an outer tub lid and a drying path. An example of the third washing machine is a drum type washing machine. In the third washing machine, when a large amount of foam is generated in the inner tub, the foam accumulates on the water surface in the outer tub and the inner tub, and the foam overflows from the outer tub and enters the drying path. It is possible. In this case, the foam that has entered the drying path may adhere to the dryer. The washing machine of the fourth example is the washing machine 1. The washing machine 1 may have the same problem as the third washing machine. Further, in the washing machine 1, when a large amount of foam is generated in the inner tub 30, the foam accumulates on the water surface in the outer tub 20 and the inner tub 30, and further, the foam also accumulates in the detergent case 40. In this case, it is conceivable that foam overflowing from the outer tub 20 overflows from a gap formed between the detergent case 40 and its lid.

  In the third period SP3, the circulation pump 90 is stopped before the first period SP1, or the circulation pump 90 is driven with a driving force weaker than the driving force in the first period SP1 before the first period SP1. It is. In a state where the water level in the outer tub 20 and the inner tub 30 is low, the amount of water in the outer tub 20 and the inner tub 30 is small, so bubbles are not easily generated efficiently. In the washing machine 1, since the circulating pump 90 stops when the water level in the outer tub 20 and the inner tub 30 is low, or the driving force is weak even when the circulating pump 90 is driven, the energy in the washing machine 1 is low. The efficiency of use is increased.

  The third period SP3 includes a period from the start of water supply from the water supply source to the inside of the outer tub 20 until the inside of the circulation pump 90 is filled with water. In one example, the control device 150 controls the circulation pump 90 so that the circulation pump 90 stops in the third period SP3. For this reason, a possibility that the driving | operation of the circulation pump 90 will be started in the state in which the air is contained in the circulation pump 90 is reduced.

  The control device 150 controls the circulation pump 90 so that the second period SP2 is longer than the third period SP3. In order to reduce the risk of bubbles overflowing from the outer tub 20, it is preferable that the second period SP2 is relatively long. When the second period SP2 in which bubbles are not easily generated after the first period SP1 or the second period SP2 in which the amount of generation is small even if bubbles are generated is relatively long, the bubbles generated in the first period SP1 It can be expected that some will disappear. In the washing machine 1, since the circulation pump 90 is controlled so that the second period SP2 is longer than the third period SP3, the possibility of bubbles overflowing from the outer tub 20 is further reduced. The lengths of the first period SP1, the second period SP2, and the third period SP3 are appropriately changed depending on the amount of clothes accommodated in the inner tub 30, for example.

  The control device 150 circulates so that the driving and stopping of the circulation pump 90 are repeated in the first period SP1, or so that the driving force of the circulation pump 90 is strong and the driving force is weak in the first period SP1. The pump 90 is controlled. When water is continuously stirred with a strong force for the generation of bubbles, the volume of the bubbles may increase rapidly. In the washing machine 1, in the first period SP1 in which the circulation pump 90 is driven to generate foam, a state where driving of the circulation pump 90 is stopped or a state where the driving force of the circulation pump 90 is weak is formed intermittently. For this reason, the risk of bubbles overflowing from the outer tub 20 is reduced. In one example, the control device 150 controls the circulation pump 90 so that the driving and stopping of the circulation pump 90 are repeated in the first period SP1 when the amount of clothes accommodated in the inner tub 30 is larger than a predetermined amount. . Whether or not the amount of clothing stored in the inner tub 30 is greater than a predetermined amount is determined based on a load acting on the washing motor 121 when the pulsator 110 is rotated.

  The control device 150 controls the operation of the pulsator 110 by driving the drive unit 120 during the water supply period SP. By driving the circulation pump 90 in the water supply period SP, bubbles are generated in the outer tank 20 and the inner tank 30, and the water in the inner tank 30 is agitated by the rotation of the pulsator 110. For this reason, the uneven distribution of the foam generated in the outer tub 20 and the inner tub 30 is reduced, and unevenness in how the dirt in each garment in the inner tub 30 is removed hardly occurs.

  The control device 150 drives the drive unit 120 while driving the circulation pump 90 during the water supply period SP. Since the state in which the water is circulated by the circulation pump 90 and the state in which the water is stirred by the rotation of the pulsator 110 are formed in combination, bubbles are efficiently generated. The control device 150 starts driving the circulation pump 90 and the drive unit 120 after the start time of the water supply period SP. In one example, the control device 150 maintains a state where the drive unit 120 is stopped in the third period SP3, and starts driving the drive unit 120 in the first period SP1. Since the circulation pump 90 and the drive unit 120 are not driven when the water level in the inner tub 30 is low, the risk of damaging clothing due to contact with the rotating pulsator 110 when the drive unit 120 is driven is reduced.

  The control device 150 stops driving the circulation pump 90 and the drive unit 120 during the water supply period SP. In one example, the control device 150 stops driving the drive unit 120 in the second period SP2. When the driving of the circulation pump 90 and the driving unit 120 is stopped, water does not circulate, so that bubbles are not easily generated in the outer tank 20 and the inner tank 30. For this reason, a possibility that bubbles may overflow from the outer tub 20 is reduced.

  The length of the period from the time when the controller 150 stops driving the drive unit 120 during the water supply period SP to the end of the water supply period SP is longer than the length of the period during which the drive unit 120 is driven in the water supply period SP. The drive unit 120 is controlled so as to be longer. In one example, the control device 150 controls the drive unit 120 such that the second period SP2 is longer than the period during which the drive unit 120 is driven in the first period SP1. For this reason, a possibility that bubbles may overflow from the outer tub 20 is further reduced.

  The control device 150 controls the drive unit 120 so that the output of the drive unit 120 during the water supply period SP is smaller than the output of the drive unit 120 when the drive unit 120 is driven after the water supply period SP. In one example, the control device 150 controls the drive unit 120 so that the output of the drive unit 120 in the water supply period SP is smaller than the output of the drive unit 120 in the washing period WP. Since the output of the drive unit 120 is small in the water supply period SP where the water level in the inner tub 30 is lower than the washing period WP, the clothes are not easily damaged by contact with the pulsator 110.

  The control device 150 controls the drive unit 120 so that the maximum rotation speed of the drive unit 120 in the water supply period SP is lower than the maximum rotation speed of the drive unit 120 when the drive unit 120 is driven after the water supply period SP. In one example, the control device 150 controls the drive unit 120 so that the maximum rotation speed of the drive unit 120 in the water supply period SP is lower than the maximum rotation speed of the drive unit 120 in the washing period WP. The rotational speed of the drive unit 120 has a correlation with the rotational speed of the pulsator 110. For this reason, even if the pulsator 110 and the clothing come into contact with the driving unit 120, the clothing is more unlikely to be damaged because the rotational speed of the pulsator 110 is low. For example, the control device 150 controls the drive unit 120 so that the drive unit 120 is continuously driven in the washing period WP.

  With reference to FIG. 7, an example of operation | movement of the circulation pump 90 in the washing period WP of various washing courses is demonstrated. The numerical values shown in parentheses in FIG. 7 indicate the time for which the circulating pump 90 is driven or stopped. The unit of time is seconds.

  The controller 150 controls the circulation pump 90 so that the washing period WP includes a state where the circulation pump 90 is driven and a state where the circulation pump 90 is stopped in various washing courses. When the circulation pump 90 is driven during the washing period WP, a flow of water circulating through the outer tub 20, the inner tub 30, and the circulation path 70 is formed, and bubbles are generated in the outer tub 20 and the inner tub 30. When the circulation pump 90 stops in the washing period WP, water does not circulate through the path including the circulation path 70, and thus the force for generating bubbles in the outer tub 20 and the inner tub 30 is weakened. Thus, since the state in which foam is difficult to be generated in the washing period WP is formed, the risk of foam overflowing from the outer tub 20 is reduced.

  The control device 150 controls the circulation pump 90 so that the period during which the circulation pump 90 is driven is longer than the period during which the circulation pump 90 is stopped during the washing period WP in various washing courses. For this reason, foam of the quantity suitable for washing is easy to be generated in the washing period WP. The control device 150 stops the circulation pump 90 in various washing courses in the second half period including the end point of the washing period WP. In the latter half of the washing period WP in which the dirt on the clothes is roughly removed, the influence of the amount of foam generated on the degree of washing of the clothes is small. For this reason, by stopping the circulation pump 90 in the latter half of the washing period WP, it is possible to reduce the risk of bubbles overflowing from the outer tub 20 while suppressing the influence on the finish of washing clothes.

  The washing period WP includes a first washing period WP1 and a second washing period WP2 (see FIG. 8). The first washing period WP1 is a period in which the output of the driving unit 120 is relatively high. The second washing period WP2 is a period in which the output of the driving unit 120 is relatively low. The control device 150 controls the circulation pump 90 so that the first washing period WP1 includes a state where the circulation pump 90 is driven and the second washing period WP2 includes a state where the circulation pump 90 stops. When the circulation pump 90 is driven during the first washing period WP1 where the output of the drive unit 120 is high, the amount of foam generated is increased. For this reason, the force which removes the stain | pollution | contamination of clothing becomes strong. When the circulation pump 90 stops in the second washing period WP2 where the output of the driving unit 120 is low, the amount of foam generated becomes smaller. For this reason, a possibility that bubbles may overflow from the outer tub 20 is reduced.

  The control device 150 controls the drive unit 120 so that the maximum rotation speed of the drive unit 120 in the second washing period WP2 is lower than the maximum rotation speed of the drive unit 120 in the first washing period WP1. For this reason, the amount of foam generated in the second washing period WP2 is further reduced, and the risk of foam overflowing from the outer tub 20 is further reduced. The control device 150 controls the drive unit 120 so that the second washing period WP2 includes the end point of the washing period WP. For this reason, when the drive unit 120 is driven at a low output during the second washing period WP2 including the end point of the washing period WP, the foam overflows from the outer tub 20 while suppressing the influence on the finishing state of the clothes. The fear can be reduced. In one example, the control device 150 controls the driving unit 120 in the second washing period WP2 in order to separate a plurality of clothes housed in the inner tub 30.

  The control device 150 controls the circulation pump 90 so that the first washing period WP1 includes a state where the circulation pump 90 is driven and a state where the circulation pump 90 is stopped. In one example, the circulation pump 90 is stopped at the end of the first washing period WP1. As the time for which the circulation pump 90 is continuously driven increases, the volume of bubbles on the water surface in the inner tank 30 increases, and the possibility that the bubbles overflow from the outer tank 20 increases. When the circulation pump 90 is continuously driven for a long time in the first washing period WP1 where the output of the driving unit 120 is high, the possibility becomes higher. In the washing machine 1, since the state in which the circulation pump 90 is driven and stopped is included in the first washing period WP1 in which the output of the drive unit 120 is high, it is avoided that the circulation pump 90 is continuously driven for a long time. The risk of bubbles overflowing from the tank 20 is reduced.

  The plurality of washing courses include a long course and a short course. The long course is a washing course having a relatively long washing period WP. The long course includes, for example, a first laundry course, a second laundry course, and a third laundry course. In the long course, the washing period WP is long in the order of the first washing course, the second washing course, and the third washing course. The short course is a washing course in which the washing period WP is relatively short. The short-time course includes, for example, a fourth washing course, a fifth washing course, a sixth washing course, a seventh washing course, and an eighth washing course. In the short-time course, the washing period WP is long in the order of the fourth washing course, the fifth washing course, the sixth washing course, the seventh washing course, and the eighth washing course. In the eighth washing course, the circulation pump 90 is not driven during the washing period WP.

  The control device 150 controls the circulation pump 90 so that the period for stopping the circulation pump 90 in the long course is longer than the period for stopping the circulation pump 90 in the short course. The period during which the control device 150 stops the circulation pump 90 is the total time during which the circulation pump 90 is stopped during the washing period WP. Since the period during which the circulation pump 90 is stopped in the long course is long, the risk of foam overflowing from the outer tub 20 is reduced even when the washing period WP is relatively long.

  The control device 150 controls the circulation pump 90 so that the circulation pump 90 is intermittently driven in the long course. In one example, the control device 150 controls the circulation pump 90 so that the circulation pump 90 is intermittently driven in the first washing course and the second washing course in the long-time course. When the circulation pump 90 is intermittently driven, a series of operations in which the circulation pump 90 is driven and then stopped are repeated. In a series of operations when the circulation pump 90 is intermittently driven, the time during which the circulation pump 90 is stopped is set based on the time during which the circulation pump 90 is driven. In a series of operations in the case where the circulation pump 90 is intermittently driven, when the time for which the circulation pump 90 is driven is relatively long, it is preferable that the time for which the circulation pump 90 is stopped is also relatively long in order to suppress foaming. .

  In one example, in the first washing course, the controller 150 drives the circulation pump 90 for 400 seconds, then stops the circulation pump 90 for 120 seconds, then drives the circulation pump 90 for 30 seconds, and then turns the circulation pump 90 on. The circulation pump 90 is controlled so that it is stopped for 120 seconds, and then the circulation pump 90 is driven for 30 seconds, and then the circulation pump 90 is stopped for 200 seconds. Since the period during which the circulation pump 90 is stopped is extended by intermittently driving the circulation pump 90, the possibility that bubbles overflow from the outer tub 20 is reduced even when the washing period WP is relatively long.

  In the control device 150, the driving time of the circulation pump 90 in the latter half of the period in which the circulation pump 90 is intermittently driven is shorter than the driving time of the circulation pump 90 in the first half of the period in which the circulation pump 90 is intermittently driven. Thus, the circulation pump 90 is controlled. Further, the control device 150 determines that the drive time of the circulation pump 90 in the latter half of the period in which the circulation pump 90 is intermittently driven is longer than the stop time of the circulation pump 90 in the first half of the period in which the circulation pump 90 is intermittently driven. The circulation pump 90 is controlled so as to be shortened. Since the bubbles generated in the outer tub 20 and the inner tub 30 accumulate on the water surface in the inner tub 30, as the drive time of the circulation pump 90 in the period during which the circulation pump 90 is intermittently driven increases, The foam volume is increased. In the washing machine 1, since the driving time of the circulation pump 90 in the second half period is shortened, the amount of foam generated is suppressed, and the risk of foam overflowing from the outer tub 20 is reduced.

  In one example, the control device 150 determines that the driving time of the last circulating pump 90 in the period in which the circulating pump 90 is intermittently driven, the driving time of the circulating pump 90 in the first half period in the period in which the circulating pump 90 is intermittently driven, and the first half Circulating pump 90 is controlled to be shorter than the stop time of circulating pump 90 in the period. Since the drive time of the last circulation pump 90 becomes short, the amount of foam generation is further suppressed, and the possibility of foam overflowing from the outer tub 20 is further reduced.

  In the control device 150, the stop time of the circulation pump 90 in the second half of the period in which the circulation pump 90 is intermittently driven is longer than the stop time of the circulation pump 90 in the second half of the period in which the circulation pump 90 is intermittently driven. Thus, the circulation pump 90 is controlled. In one example, the control device 150 circulates so that the stop time of the last circulation pump 90 during the period in which the circulation pump 90 is intermittently driven is longer than the drive time of the last circulation pump 90 in the period during which the circulation pump 90 is intermittently driven. The pump 90 is controlled. Since the last stop time of the circulation pump 90 becomes longer, the amount of foam generated is suppressed, and the risk of foam overflowing from the outer tub 20 is reduced.

  The control device 150 controls the circulation pump 90 so that the period for stopping the circulation pump 90 in the washing period WP becomes longer as the length of the long-time course becomes longer. For this reason, a possibility that bubbles may overflow from the outer tub 20 in the long course is further reduced. The control device 150 controls the circulation pump 90 so that the state where the circulation pump 90 is intermittently driven is not included in the short course. For this reason, when the circulation pump 90 drives in a short course, the possibility that the generation amount of bubbles will decrease is reduced.

  For example, the control device 150 executes a washing course selected based on the operation of the operation unit 14. In one example, the control device 150 controls the driving unit 120 so that the pulsator 110 rotates at a predetermined rotation speed before executing the washing course, and is accommodated in the inner tub 30 based on a load acting on the washing motor 121. Determine the amount of clothing. When it is determined that the amount of clothing stored in the inner tub 30 is less than the predetermined amount, the control device 150 executes the washing course in the first use state. When it is determined that the amount of clothing stored in the inner tub 30 is greater than the predetermined amount, the control device 150 executes the washing course in the second use state.

With reference to FIG. 8, an example of the 1st use condition of the washing machine 1 is demonstrated. FIG. 8 shows an example of the operation of the first washing course in the first use state.
At time t1, the control device 150 controls the water supply valve 55 so that water is supplied from the water supply source into the outer tub 20 and the inner tub 30 with a predetermined water supply amount through the water supply pipe 50 and the detergent case 40. An example of the predetermined water supply amount is 15 L / min. The water supplied into the outer tub 20 and the inner tub 30 includes a washing agent and a softening agent. The water level in the inner tank 30 continues to rise while water is supplied from the water supply source. In addition, the control device 150 controls the switching unit 122 so that the washing motor 121 and the inner tub 30 are connected by the switching unit 122, and controls the washing motor 121 so that the inner tub 30 rotates at a predetermined rotation speed. . An example of the predetermined rotation speed is 35 rpm. By rotating the inner tub 30 at a predetermined rotation speed, a plurality of clothes housed in the inner tub 30 are separated. The controller 150 does not drive the circulation pump 90 in the third period SP3 including the period from the time t1 to the time t2.

  At time t2, the control device 150 controls the circulation motor 92 so that the circulation pump 90 is driven. The control device 150 continues to drive the circulation pump 90 in the first period SP1 including the period from time t2 to time t3. For this reason, bubbles are easily generated in the outer tank 20 and the inner tank 30. Further, the control device 150 controls the washing motor 121 so that the rotation of the inner tub 30 stops, and then controls the switching unit 122 so that the washing motor 121 and the pulsator 110 are connected by the switching unit 122. Controls the washing motor 121 so as to rotate at the first rotational speed RS1. An example of the first rotation speed RS1 is 110 rpm.

  At time t3, the control device 150 controls the circulation motor 92 so that the circulation pump 90 stops. The control device 150 maintains the state where the circulation pump 90 is stopped in the second period SP2 including the period from time t3 to time t4. Further, the control device 150 controls the washing motor 121 so that the rotation of the pulsator 110 is stopped. In the second period SP2 in which the water level in the outer tank 20 and the inner tank 30 is higher than in the first period SP1, the circulation pump 90 and the drive unit 120 are stopped, so that bubbles are generated in the outer tank 20 and the inner tank 30. A state that is difficult to generate is formed. For this reason, a possibility that bubbles may overflow from the outer tub 20 is reduced.

  At time t4, the control device 150 determines that the water level of the inner tub 30 has reached the washing water level WL, and controls the water supply valve 55 so that water supply from the water supply source to the outer tub 20 and the inner tub 30 is stopped. The washing water level WL is the highest water level in the inner tub 30 in the washing course. The washing water level WL is set according to the amount of clothing stored in the inner tub 30. Further, the control device 150 controls the washing motor 121 so that the pulsator 110 rotates at the second rotation speed RS2. An example of the second rotation speed RS2 is 120 rpm. For example, the control device 150 detects the amount of water (hereinafter referred to as “flying water”) flying from the water surface in the inner tank 30 by rotating the pulsator 110 at the second rotational speed RS2. When the amount of flying water is larger than a predetermined amount, the foam generated in the outer tank 20 and the inner tank 30 is likely to overflow from the outer tank 20. In one example, when it is determined that the amount of flying water is larger than a predetermined amount, the control device 150 drains a part of the water in the outer tub 20 and the inner tub 30 or cancels the washing course.

  At time t5, the control device 150 controls the circulation motor 92 so that the circulation pump 90 is driven. The control device 150 controls the circulation motor 92 so that the circulation pump 90 is intermittently driven during the washing period WP in the first washing course. Further, the control device 150 controls the washing motor 121 so that the pulsator 110 rotates at the third rotation speed RS3. An example of the third rotation speed RS3 is 130 rpm. The control device 150 controls the washing motor 121 so that the pulsator 110 continues to rotate at the third rotation speed RS3 in the first washing period WP1 including the period from time t5 to time t11. The washing machine 1 starts washing clothes stored in the inner tub 30 after time t5.

  At time t6, the control device 150 controls the circulation motor 92 so that the circulation pump 90 stops. At time t7, the control device 150 controls the circulation motor 92 so that the circulation pump 90 is driven. At time t8, the control device 150 controls the circulation motor 92 so that the circulation pump 90 stops. At time t9, the control device 150 controls the circulation motor 92 so that the circulation pump 90 is driven. At time t10, the control device 150 controls the circulation motor 92 so that the circulation pump 90 stops. The control device 150 maintains the state where the circulation pump 90 is stopped after the time t10 in the washing period WP. Since the washing period WP includes a state in which the circulation pump 90 is driven and a state in which the circulation pump 90 is stopped, a state in which bubbles are hardly generated in the washing period WP is formed. For this reason, a possibility that bubbles may overflow from the outer tub 20 is reduced.

  At time t11, the control device 150 controls the washing motor 121 so that the pulsator 110 rotates at the fourth rotational speed RS4. An example of the fourth rotation speed RS4 is 80 rpm. As the pulsator 110 rotates at the fourth rotational speed RS4, the clothes housed in the inner tank 30 are separated. At time t12, control device 150 controls washing motor 121 so that rotation of pulsator 110 stops. Further, the control device 150 controls the drain valves 76 and 81 so that the water in the outer tank 20 and the inner tank 30 is drained. Through the above steps, the control device 150 ends the first washing course in the first use state.

  For example, after the completion of various washing courses, the control device 150 executes at least one of a rinsing process, a dehydrating process, and a drying process. In one example, the control device 150 executes a rinsing process, a dehydration process, and a drying process in this order.

  The rinsing process is a process of rinsing clothes stored in the inner tub 30. In one example, the control device 150 controls the water supply valve 55 so that water is supplied again from the water supply source into the outer tub 20 and the inner tub 30 in the rinsing process, and washing is performed so that the inner tub 30 rotates at a predetermined rotation speed. After controlling the motor 121, the drain valves 76 and 81 are controlled so that the water in the outer tank 20 and the inner tank 30 is drained. An example of the predetermined rotation speed is 780 rpm. When the control device 150 executes the rinsing process, dirt or bubbles adhering to the clothes are flowed.

  The dehydration process is a process of dehydrating the clothes accommodated in the inner tank 30. In one example, the controller 150 controls the washing motor 121 so that the inner tub 30 rotates at a predetermined rotational speed in a dewatering process with the water in the outer tub 20 and the inner tub 30 drained. An example of the predetermined rotation speed is 780 rpm. When the control device 150 executes the dehydration process, the clothes stored in the inner tub 30 are dehydrated.

  A drying process is a process of drying the clothes accommodated in the inner tank 30. In one example, the control device 150 controls the fan motor 142 and the heater 143 so that warm air is supplied into the inner tank 30 in the drying process. As the control device 150 executes the drying process, the clothes housed in the inner tub 30 are dried.

With reference to FIG. 9, an example of the 2nd use condition of the washing machine 1 is demonstrated. FIG. 9 shows an example of the operation of the first washing course in the second use state.
At time t21, control device 150 executes substantially the same processing as that executed at time t1 (see FIG. 8). The control device 150 does not drive the circulation pump 90 in the third period SP3 including the period from time t21 to time t22.

  At time t22, the control device 150 controls the circulation motor 92 so that the circulation pump 90 is driven. The control device 150 controls the circulation motor 92 so that the circulation pump 90 is repeatedly driven and stopped in the first period SP1 including the period from time t22 to time t25. At time t23, the control device 150 controls the circulation motor 92 so that the circulation pump 90 stops.

  At time t24, the control device 150 controls the circulation motor 92 so that the circulation pump 90 is driven. Further, the control device 150 controls the washing motor 121 so that the rotation of the inner tub 30 stops, and then controls the switching unit 122 so that the washing motor 121 and the pulsator 110 are connected by the switching unit 122. Controls the washing motor 121 so as to rotate at the first rotational speed RS1. At time t25, the control device 150 controls the circulation motor 92 so that the circulation pump 90 stops. The control device 150 maintains the state where the circulation pump 90 is stopped in the second period SP2 from time t25 to time t26. Further, the control device 150 controls the washing motor 121 so that the rotation of the pulsator 110 is stopped.

  The control device 150 executes substantially the same processing at time t26 to t34 as compared to that at time t4 to t12 (see FIG. 8). Through the above steps, the control device 150 ends the first washing course in the second use state.

An example of how to use the washing machine 1 will be described with reference to FIG.
The washing machine 1 is used by the user as follows, for example. In the first procedure, the main body lid 13 and the outer tank lid 23 are opened, and clothes are put into the accommodation space 31 </ b> B of the inner tank 30 through the openings 12, 22, and 32. In the second procedure, a detergent, a softener and the like are accommodated in the detergent case 40. In the third procedure, the operation unit 14 is operated to turn on the power of the washing machine 1 and select an arbitrary washing course.

  The washing machine 1 executes the washing course selected by the third procedure. The control device 150 controls the circulation pump 90 so as to include a state where the circulation pump 90 is driven and a state where the circulation pump 90 is stopped in the water supply period SP of the washing course. For this reason, a state in which bubbles are hardly generated in the water supply period SP is formed, and the risk of bubbles overflowing from the outer tub 20 is reduced. Further, the control device 150 controls the circulation pump 90 so as to include a state where the circulation pump 90 is driven and a state where the circulation pump 90 is stopped in the washing period WP of the washing course. For this reason, the state in which foam is difficult to be generated in the washing period WP is formed, and the risk of foam overflowing from the outer tub 20 is reduced. And after the clothes accommodated in the inner tank 30 are washed, the washed clothes are taken out from the accommodation space 31B of the inner tank 30 in the fourth procedure.

(Modification)
The description relating to the embodiment is an exemplification of the form that the washing machine according to the present invention can take, and is not intended to limit the form. In addition to the embodiment, the present invention can take a form in which, for example, a modification of the embodiment described below and a combination of at least two modifications not contradicting each other are combined.

  -The control content in 1st period SP1 of water supply period SP can be changed arbitrarily. In the first example, the control device 150 controls the circulation pump 90 so that the strong and weak driving force of the circulation pump 90 is repeated in the first period SP1. In the second example, the control device 150 controls the circulation pump 90 so that the circulation pump 90 continues to be driven in the first period SP1 when the amount of clothes accommodated in the inner tub 30 is larger than a predetermined amount. In the third example, the control device 150 controls the circulation pump 90 so that the circulation pump 90 is repeatedly driven and stopped in the first period SP1 when the amount of clothing stored in the inner tub 30 is smaller than a predetermined amount. Control.

  -The control content in 2nd period SP2 of water supply period SP can be changed arbitrarily. In one example, the control device 150 controls the circulation pump 90 in the second period SP2 so that the circulation pump 90 is driven with a driving force weaker than the driving force in the first period SP1.

  -The control content in 3rd period SP3 of water supply period SP can be changed arbitrarily. In one example, the control device 150 controls the circulation pump 90 in the third period SP3 so that the circulation pump 90 is driven with a driving force weaker than the driving force in the first period SP1.

  The relationship between the second period SP2 and the third period SP3 in the water supply period SP can be arbitrarily changed. In the first example, the control device 150 controls the circulation pump 90 so that the second period SP2 and the third period SP3 have substantially the same length. In the second example, the control device 150 controls the circulation pump 90 so that the second period SP2 is shorter than the third period SP3.

  -The contents of the third period SP3 of the water supply period SP can be arbitrarily changed. In the first example, the third period SP3 includes a period from the start of water supply from the water supply source to the inside of the outer tub 20 until the inside of the circulation pump 90 is filled with water. In the second example, the third period SP3 includes a period from when the water supply from the water supply source to the outer tub 20 is started until the water level of the inner tub 30 reaches a predetermined water level. An example of the preferable range regarding a predetermined water level is 15-25 mm. An example of the predetermined water level is 22 mm.

  -The configuration of the water supply period SP can be arbitrarily changed. In the first example, the first period SP1 is omitted from the water supply period SP. According to this example, the control device 150 does not drive the circulation pump 90 in the water supply period SP. In the second example, at least one of the second period SP2 and the third period SP3 is omitted from the water supply period SP.

  The relationship between the length of the period from when the drive of the drive unit 120 is stopped during the water supply period SP to the end of the water supply period SP and the length of the period during which the drive unit 120 is driven in the water supply period SP is arbitrary Can be changed. In the first example, the controller 150 is driven in the water supply period SP for the length of the period from the time when the drive of the drive unit 120 is stopped during the water supply period SP to the end of the water supply period SP. The drive unit 120 is controlled to be substantially the same as the length of the period. In the second example, the control unit 150 drives the drive unit 120 during the water supply period SP, the length of the period from the time when the drive of the drive unit 120 is stopped during the water supply period SP to the end of the water supply period SP. The drive unit 120 is controlled to be shorter than the length of the period.

  The relationship between the maximum rotation speed of the drive unit 120 during the water supply period SP and the maximum rotation speed of the drive unit 120 when the drive unit 120 is driven after the water supply period SP can be arbitrarily changed. In the first example, the control device 150 causes the maximum rotation speed of the drive unit 120 during the water supply period SP to be substantially the same as the maximum rotation speed of the drive unit 120 when the drive unit 120 is driven after the water supply period SP. The drive unit 120 is controlled. In the second example, the control device 150 controls the drive unit 120 so that the maximum rotation speed of the drive unit 120 in the water supply period SP is substantially the same as the maximum rotation speed of the drive unit 120 in the washing period WP. In the third example, the controller 150 drives the drive unit 120 so that the maximum rotation speed of the drive unit 120 during the water supply period SP is higher than the maximum rotation speed of the drive unit 120 when the drive unit 120 is driven after the water supply period SP. 120 is controlled. In the fourth example, the control device 150 controls the drive unit 120 so that the maximum rotation speed of the drive unit 120 in the water supply period SP is higher than the maximum rotation speed of the drive unit 120 in the washing period WP.

  The relationship between the output of the drive unit 120 during the water supply period SP and the output of the drive unit 120 when the drive unit 120 is driven after the water supply period SP can be arbitrarily changed. In the first example, the controller 150 causes the drive unit 120 so that the output of the drive unit 120 during the water supply period SP is substantially the same as the output of the drive unit 120 when the drive unit 120 is driven after the water supply period SP. To control. In the second example, the control device 150 controls the drive unit 120 so that the output of the drive unit 120 during the water supply period SP is substantially the same as the output of the drive unit 120 during the washing period WP. In the third example, the control device 150 controls the drive unit 120 so that the output of the drive unit 120 in the water supply period SP is larger than the output of the drive unit 120 when the drive unit 120 is driven after the water supply period SP. . In the fourth example, the control device 150 controls the drive unit 120 so that the output of the drive unit 120 in the water supply period SP is larger than the output of the drive unit 120 in the washing period WP.

  -The relationship between the drive state of the circulation pump 90 and the drive state of the drive part 120 in the water supply period SP can be changed arbitrarily. In one example, the control device 150 drives the drive unit 120 while the circulation pump 90 is stopped during the water supply period SP.

  -The drive state of the drive part 120 in the water supply period SP can be changed arbitrarily. In the first example, the control device 150 controls the drive unit 120 so that the drive unit 120 continues to be driven in the water supply period SP. In the second example, the control device 150 controls the drive unit 120 so as to maintain the state where the drive unit 120 is stopped during the water supply period SP.

  The period during which the circulation pump 90 is stopped in the washing period WP can be arbitrarily changed. In the first example, the control device 150 stops the circulation pump 90 in the first half period including the start time of the washing period WP. In the second example, the control device 150 stops the circulation pump 90 during the washing period WP.

  The relationship between the period for driving the circulation pump 90 and the period for stopping the circulation pump 90 in the washing period WP can be arbitrarily changed. In the first example, the control device 150 controls the circulation pump 90 in the washing period WP so that the period for driving the circulation pump 90 is substantially the same as the period for stopping the circulation pump 90. In the second example, the control device 150 controls the circulation pump 90 in the washing period WP so that the period for driving the circulation pump 90 is shorter than the period for stopping the circulation pump 90.

  The relationship between the period for stopping the circulation pump 90 in the long course and the period for stopping the circulation pump 90 in the short course can be arbitrarily changed. In the first example, the control device 150 controls the circulation pump 90 so that the period for stopping the circulation pump 90 in the long course is substantially the same as the period for stopping the circulation pump 90 in the short course. In the second example, the control device 150 controls the circulation pump 90 so that the period for stopping the circulation pump 90 in the long course is shorter than the period for stopping the circulation pump 90 in the short course.

  The relationship between the period during which the circulation pump 90 is stopped in the washing period WP and the length of the long course can be arbitrarily changed. In the first example, the control device 150 controls the circulation pump 90 so that the period during which the circulation pump 90 is stopped in the washing period WP is substantially the same in the long-term course. In the second example, the control device 150 controls the circulation pump 90 so that the period for stopping the circulation pump 90 in the washing period WP is shortened as the length of the long course is increased.

  The relationship between the driving time of the circulation pump 90 in the latter half of the period in which the circulation pump 90 is intermittently driven and the driving time of the circulation pump 90 in the first half of the period in which the circulation pump 90 is intermittently driven is arbitrarily changed. Is possible. In the first example, the control device 150 drives the circulation pump 90 in the first half of the period in which the circulation pump 90 is intermittently driven, in the latter half of the period in which the circulation pump 90 is intermittently driven. The circulating pump 90 is controlled to be substantially the same as time. In the second example, the control device 150 drives the circulation pump 90 in the first half of the period in which the circulation pump 90 is intermittently driven in the latter half of the period in which the circulation pump 90 is intermittently driven. The circulation pump 90 is controlled to be longer than the time. The same modification is applied to the relationship between the drive time of the circulation pump 90 in the second half of the period in which the circulation pump 90 is intermittently driven and the stop time of the circulation pump 90 in the first half of the period in which the circulation pump 90 is intermittently driven. An example holds.

  The relationship between the drive time of the last circulation pump 90 in the period in which the circulation pump 90 is intermittently driven and the drive time of the circulation pump 90 in the first half of the period in which the circulation pump 90 is intermittently driven can be arbitrarily changed. . In the first example, the control device 150 determines that the drive time of the last circulation pump 90 in the period in which the circulation pump 90 is intermittently driven is substantially equal to the drive time of the circulation pump 90 in the first half of the period in which the circulation pump 90 is intermittently driven. Therefore, the circulation pump 90 is controlled so as to be the same. In the second example, the control device 150 determines that the driving time of the last circulating pump 90 in the period in which the circulating pump 90 is intermittently driven is longer than the driving time of the circulating pump 90 in the first half of the period in which the circulating pump 90 is intermittently driven. The circulation pump 90 is controlled to be longer. A similar modification is established in the relationship between the drive time of the last circulation pump 90 during the period in which the circulation pump 90 is intermittently driven and the stop time of the circulation pump 90 in the first half of the period in which the circulation pump 90 is intermittently driven. To do.

  The relationship between the stop time of the last circulation pump 90 during the period in which the circulation pump 90 is intermittently driven and the drive time of the last circulation pump 90 in the period during which the circulation pump 90 is intermittently driven can be arbitrarily changed. In the first example, the control device 150 has the stop time of the last circulation pump 90 during the period in which the circulation pump 90 is intermittently driven substantially the same as the drive time of the last circulation pump 90 in the period during which the circulation pump 90 is intermittently driven. The circulation pump 90 is controlled so that In the second example, the control device 150 causes the stop time of the last circulation pump 90 during the period in which the circulation pump 90 is intermittently driven to be shorter than the drive time of the last circulation pump 90 in the period during which the circulation pump 90 is intermittently driven. The circulation pump 90 is controlled.

  -Whether the circulation pump 90 is intermittently driven in the washing period WP can be arbitrarily changed. In the first example, the control device 150 controls the circulation pump 90 so that the circulation pump 90 is intermittently driven in all the washing courses in the long-time course. In the second example, the control device 150 controls the circulation pump 90 so that the circulation pump 90 is intermittently driven in a short course. In the third example, the control device 150 controls the circulation pump 90 so that the circulation pump 90 is not intermittently driven.

  -It can change arbitrarily whether the state which drives the circulation pump 90 and the state to stop are included in the washing period WP. In the first example, the control device 150 continues to drive the circulation pump 90 during the washing period WP. In the second example, the control device 150 maintains the state where the circulation pump 90 is stopped during the washing period WP.

  The relationship between the maximum rotation speed of the drive unit 120 in the second washing period WP2 and the maximum rotation speed of the drive unit 120 in the first washing period WP1 can be arbitrarily changed. In the first example, the control device 150 sets the drive unit 120 so that the maximum rotation speed of the drive unit 120 in the second washing period WP2 is substantially the same as the maximum rotation speed of the drive unit 120 in the first washing period WP1. Control. In the second example, the control device 150 controls the drive unit 120 so that the maximum rotation speed of the drive unit 120 in the second washing period WP2 is higher than the maximum rotation speed of the drive unit 120 in the first washing period WP1.

  The relationship between the output of the driving unit 120 in the second washing period WP2 and the output of the driving unit 120 in the first washing period WP1 can be arbitrarily changed. In the first example, the control device 150 controls the drive unit 120 so that the output of the drive unit 120 in the second washing period WP2 is substantially the same as the output of the drive unit 120 in the first washing period WP1. In the second example, the control device 150 controls the drive unit 120 so that the output of the drive unit 120 in the second washing period WP2 is higher than the output of the drive unit 120 in the first washing period WP1.

  The configuration of the dryer 140 can be arbitrarily changed. In one example, the dryer 140 includes a heat pump instead of the heater 143. The washing machine 1 may take a form in which the dryer 140 and the drying path 130 are omitted.

  The configuration of the adjustment structure 100 can be arbitrarily changed. In one example, the adjustment structure 100 includes another mechanism capable of adjusting the position of the impeller 91 instead of the circulation motor 92. An example of another mechanism is a ball screw. The washing machine 1 may take a form in which the adjustment structure 100 is omitted.

  The configuration of the circulation motor 92 can be arbitrarily changed. In one example, the circulation motor 92 is configured such that the impeller 91 does not contact the bottom surface 93 </ b> A of the case 93 when the stator 92 </ b> C does not generate electromagnetic force. For this reason, a gap is formed between the impeller 91 and the bottom surface 93A when the stator 92C of the circulation motor 92 does not generate electromagnetic force.

  -The structure of the closing part 74 can be changed arbitrarily. In the first example, the closing portion 74 is provided upstream of the circulation pump 90 in the circulation path 70. In the second example, the closing portion 74 includes a solenoid valve instead of the drain trap 74A. The washing machine 1 may take a form in which the closing portion 74 is omitted.

  The configuration of the filter 73 can be arbitrarily changed. In the first example, the filter 73 includes at least one hole instead of or in addition to the connection hole 73C. It is preferable that the at least one hole is formed so that coins cannot pass through and dust that is separated from the clothing due to washing can pass through. In the second example, at least one of the first hole 73A, the second hole 73B, and the connection hole 73C is omitted from the filter 73.

  The configuration of the circulation path 70 can be arbitrarily changed. In one example, the circulation path 70 is connected to the upper opening 24 and the lower opening 25 without going through the detergent case 40 and the water supply hose 60. According to this example, the second circulation path 72 connects the case 93 of the circulation pump 90 and the outer tub 20.

  The position of the upper opening 24 in the outer tub 20 can be arbitrarily changed. In the first example, the upper opening 24 is provided in a portion of the outer tub 20 near the front of the washing machine 1. In the second example, the upper opening 24 is provided in a portion near the center of the washing machine 1 in the outer tub 20. In the third example, the upper opening 24 is provided on the outer peripheral surface of the outer tub 20.

  The position of the lower opening 25 in the outer tub 20 can be arbitrarily changed. In the first example, the lower opening 25 is provided in a portion of the outer tub 20 near the back surface of the washing machine 1. In the second example, the lower opening 25 is provided in a portion of the outer tub 20 near the center of the washing machine 1. In the third example, the lower opening 25 is provided on the outer peripheral surface of the outer tub 20.

  The position of the drain opening 26 in the outer tub 20 can be arbitrarily changed. In the first example, the drainage opening 26 is provided in a portion of the outer tub 20 near the front of the washing machine 1. In the second example, the drainage opening 26 is provided in a portion of the outer tub 20 near the center of the washing machine 1. In the third example, the drain opening 26 is provided on the outer peripheral surface of the outer tub 20.

  The relationship between the distance between the upper opening 24 and the lower opening 25 and the distance between the upper opening 24 and the drain opening 26 can be arbitrarily changed. In the first example, the distance between the upper opening 24 and the lower opening 25 is substantially the same as the distance between the upper opening 24 and the drain opening 26. In the second example, the distance between the upper opening 24 and the lower opening 25 is shorter than the distance between the upper opening 24 and the drain opening 26.

  The relationship between the area of the lower opening 25 and the area of the drain opening 26 can be arbitrarily changed. In the first example, the area of the lower opening 25 is substantially the same as the area of the drain opening 26. In the second example, the area of the lower opening 25 is larger than the area of the drain opening 26.

  The washing machine 1 can take a form in which at least one of the circulation pump 90 and the pulsator 110 is omitted. When the washing machine 1 omits the circulation pump 90, the circulation path 70 can also be omitted. When the pulsator 110 is omitted, the washing machine 1 agitates the water in the inner tub 30 by rotating the inner tub 30 relative to the outer tub 20 as the driving unit 120 is driven.

  -The structure of the washing machine 1 can be changed arbitrarily. In one example, the washing machine 1 is a drum type washing machine. The configuration of the drum type washing machine is substantially the same as the configuration of the washing machine 1.

  The washing machine according to the present invention can be used in various washing machines including home use and business use.

1: Washing machine 20: Outer tank 30: Inner tank 70: Circulation path 90: Circulation pump 91: Impeller 92: Circulation motor (motor)
92A: Output shaft 92B: Rotor 92C: Stator 93: Case 93A: Bottom surface 100: Adjustment structure

Claims (4)

An outer tank,
An inner tank provided in the outer tank so as to communicate with the inside of the outer tank;
A circulation path connected to the outer tub so that water in the outer tub can be circulated;
A motor including an output shaft; and an impeller provided on the output shaft, and a circulation pump that forms a flow of water in the circulation path by rotating the impeller;
A case containing the impeller and including a bottom surface located below the impeller;
The distance between the impeller and the bottom surface when the rotation of the motor is stopped is smaller than the distance between the impeller and the bottom surface when the motor is rotating. A washing machine comprising an adjustment structure for adjusting the position. The washing machine according to claim 1, wherein the adjustment structure includes the motor. The motor includes a rotor and a stator disposed below the bottom surface,
The rotor is coupled to the output shaft;
The adjustment structure is configured such that when the stator loses electromagnetic force, the rotor moves downwardly away from the bottom surface so that the impeller approaches the bottom surface, and the stator generates electromagnetic force. The washing machine according to claim 2, further comprising the motor configured to move the impeller away from the bottom surface by moving the rotor upward so as to approach the bottom surface. The washing machine according to claim 3, wherein the adjustment structure includes the motor configured such that the impeller comes into contact with the bottom surface when the stator does not generate electromagnetic force.

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