JP2022033597A - washing machine - Google Patents

Abstract

To provide a washing machine which properly washes a flow passage of water.SOLUTION: In a washing and drying machine 100, a control device allows a circulation pump 13 to rotate normally at least in a partial period in a washing step, guides water at a bottom part of an outer tub 7 to an upper part of the outer tub 7 via a circulation hose H2, a connection hose H5, a sprinkler hose H6 and a sprinkler nozzle sequentially, sprays water into a drum from the upper part of the outer tub 7, allows the circulation pump 13 to rotate reversely in a partial period in a pipe washing step, and while circulating the water via the circulation hose H2 and a detergent dissolving hose H8 sequentially, heats the water at the bottom of the outer tub 7 by a hot water heater.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 4

Description

The present invention relates to a washing machine.

As a technique for cleaning the piping of a washing machine, for example, Patent Document 1 states, "By rotating the circulation pump in the reverse direction between the rinsing step and the dehydration step, the water accumulated in the bottom of the outer tub is removed.・ Circulate. "

Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 2013-223551

In the technique described in Patent Document 1, the pipes are washed using tap water supplied to the outer tank in the rinsing process. Therefore, especially in a low temperature environment such as a cold region or winter, it is difficult to remove dirt such as sebum and detergent residue adhering to the inner surface of the pipe (a part of the water flow path), and there is room for further improvement.

Therefore, it is an object of the present invention to provide a washing machine that appropriately cleans the flow path of water.

In order to solve the above-mentioned problems, in the washing machine according to the present invention, the control device rotates the circulation pump in the forward direction during at least a part of the washing process, and the water at the bottom of the outer tub is supplied to the first flow path and the first flow path. The two flow paths are sequentially guided to the upper part of the outer tank, water is sprinkled from the upper part of the outer tank to the inner tank, the circulation pump is rotated in the reverse direction during at least a part of the pipe cleaning process, and the first flow path and the third flow path are used. It is characterized in that the water at the bottom of the outer tank is heated by a water heating means while circulating water sequentially through the flow path.

According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a washing machine that appropriately cleans the flow path of water.

It is a perspective view of the washer-dryer which concerns on embodiment. It is a vertical sectional view which shows the schematic internal structure of the washer-dryer which concerns on embodiment. It is explanatory drawing which includes the internal structure of the circulation pump provided in the washer-dryer which concerns on embodiment. It is explanatory drawing which shows the arrangement of the apparatus in the lower part of the outer tub of the washer-dryer which concerns on embodiment. It is a perspective view of the hot water heater provided in the washer-dryer which concerns on embodiment. It is a perspective view which looked down on the bottom of the outer tub provided in the washer-dryer which concerns on embodiment from diagonally above. It is a flowchart of the process executed by the control device of the washer-dryer which concerns on embodiment. It is a flowchart of the washing process of the washer-dryer which concerns on embodiment. It is a flowchart of the process of the main washing A of the washer-dryer which concerns on embodiment. It is a flowchart of the process of the main washing A of the washer-dryer which concerns on embodiment. It is a flowchart of the process of the main wash B of the washer-dryer which concerns on embodiment. It is a flowchart of the process of the main wash B of the washer-dryer which concerns on embodiment. It is a flowchart of the 1st rinsing process of the washer-dryer which concerns on embodiment. It is a flowchart of the 2nd rinsing process of the washer-dryer which concerns on embodiment. It is a flowchart of the pipe washing process of the washer-dryer which concerns on embodiment. It is explanatory drawing which shows the state of the apparatus in each process of the washer-dryer which concerns on embodiment. It is explanatory drawing which shows the state of the apparatus in each process of the washer-dryer which concerns on embodiment.

<< Embodiment >>
In the following, as an example, a drum-type washer-dryer 100 (see FIG. 1) capable of performing washing, rinsing, dehydration, and drying will be described.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the washer / dryer 100 according to the embodiment.
As shown in FIG. 1, front / rear, left / right, and top / bottom are defined with the surface of the washer / dryer 100 (washing machine) provided with the door 2 as the front surface. As shown in FIG. 1, the washer / dryer 100 includes a housing 1, a door 2, and an operation panel 3.

The housing 1 is a box-shaped member constituting the outer shell of the washer / dryer 100, and includes a front cover 1a, a pair of left and right side plates 1b, a back cover 1c, a top cover 1d, and a base 1e. .. The front cover 1a includes an upper front cover 1au and a lower front cover 1ad below the upper front cover 1au.

The pair of left and right side plates 1b have a configuration in which an upper reinforcing material, a front reinforcing material, and a rear reinforcing material (all of which are not shown), which are U-shaped in cross-sectional view, are predeterminedly connected. Further, the upper surface cover 1d is provided with a detergent lid 1ds. The detergent lid 1ds is opened when the detergent or the like is put into the detergent container 12 (see FIG. 2).

The door 2 shown in FIG. 1 closes an input port provided substantially in the center of the upper front cover 1au, and can be opened and closed via a hinge (not shown) so that the user can put in and take out clothes. There is. The operation panel 3 accepts user operations and is provided on the top cover 1d. The operation panel 3 includes a power switch 3a and an operation button 3b, which are electrically connected to the control device 18 (see FIG. 2).

Further, the top cover 1d has a water supply hose connection port 4a connected to a water tap via a water supply hose (not shown), and a bath tub (not shown) via a water absorption hose (not shown). A water absorption hose connection port 4b connected to the water absorption hose connection port 4b is provided.

FIG. 2 is a vertical sectional view showing a schematic internal structure of the washer / dryer 100.
In addition to the above-described configuration, the washer / dryer 100 includes a drum 5 (inner tank), a fluid balancer 6, an outer tank 7, an outer tank cover 8, a bellows 9, a motor 10, and a damper shown in FIG. The eleven, the detergent container 12, and the circulation pump 13 are provided. Further, the washing / drying machine 100 includes a drain valve 14, a hot water heater 15 (water heating means), a water level sensor 16, an electric conductivity sensor 17 (dirt degree detecting means), a control device 18, and a water supply unit 19. , The bath water absorption pump 20 and the like.

The drum 5 is a bottomed cylindrical member that functions as a washing / dehydrating tub, and is contained in the outer tub 7. The peripheral wall and bottom wall of the drum 5 are provided with a large number of through holes (not shown) for water passage and ventilation. The drum 5 is provided with an opening 5a for putting in and taking out clothes. The drum 5 is rotatably supported inside the housing 1 so that the opening 5a faces the door 2. The rotation center axis of the drum 5 may be parallel to the horizontal plane, or may be predeterminedly inclined so that the opening 5a is higher than the bottom surface (back surface).

The fluid balancer 6 is an annular member made of synthetic resin for suppressing eccentricity due to deviation of the position of laundry. The fluid balancer 6 is installed near the edge of the opening 5a of the drum 5 and rotates integrally with the drum 5. A fluid having a relatively large specific gravity (for example, salt water) is enclosed inside the fluid balancer 6.

The outer tank 7 is a bottomed cylindrical member having a function of storing water and the like, and is installed in the housing 1. The outer tank 7 includes the drum 5 so that the central axis thereof substantially coincides with the central axis of the drum 5. An annular outer tub cover 8 is installed in the opening on the front side of the outer tub 7 to enable water storage. An opening for putting in and taking out clothes is provided near the center of the outer tank cover 8. The opening of the outer tank cover 8 and the opening of the front reinforcing material (not shown) of the housing 1 are connected via a rubber bellows 9. As a result, watertightness is ensured between the closed door 2 and the outer tub 7.

The motor 10 shown in FIG. 2 is a drive source for rotating the drum 5, and is installed near the center of the back surface of the outer tank 7. The rotating shaft of the motor 10 penetrates the outer tank 7 and is coupled to the drum 5. The damper 11 supports the outer tank 7 in a vibration-proof manner, and the upper end thereof is installed in the outer tank 7 and the lower end thereof is installed in the base 1e.

At the rear of the peripheral wall of the outer tank 7, a water supply port 7a for guiding water and detergents is provided inside the outer tank 7. The water supply port 7a is connected to the water outlet 12a of the detergent container 12 via the bellows hose H1. The detergent container 12 is a container into which detergent or the like is put, and is installed on the upper part of the housing 1. Then, the detergent lid 1ds is opened by the user, and the detergent or the like is put into the detergent container 12.

A concave recess 7b is provided at the bottom (lower part) of the outer tank 7. The bottom surface of the recessed portion 7b is inclined so as to be lowered toward the rear (the back surface of the outer tank 7). A drainage port 7c is provided near the rear end of the recessed portion 7b. A circulation hose H2 is connected to the drain port 7c via a joint G. The circulation hose H2 is a pipe that guides water from the drain port 7c of the outer tank 7 to the circulation pump 13, and its downstream end is connected to the circulation pump 13.

The circulation pump 13 is a pump that circulates the water in the outer tank 7 in a predetermined manner. The details of the circulation pump 13 will be described later. The drain valve 14 is a valve for switching the drainage / shutoff of water in the outer tank 7, and is connected to the circulation hose H2. The external drain hose H3 is a pipe for draining water when the drain valve 14 is opened, and is connected to the downstream side of the drain valve 14.

The hot water heater 15 is a heater for heating the water in the outer tank 7, and is provided in the recessed portion 7b of the outer tank 7. The water level sensor 16 detects the water level of water in the outer tank 7. For example, the water level sensor 16 detects the water level by measuring the pressure of the water stored in the outer tank 7. For the detection of the water level by the water level sensor 16, for example, a vinyl tube 16a extending to the bottom (lower part) of the outer tank 7 is used.

The electric conductivity sensor 17 is a sensor that detects the electric conductivity of the water supplied to the outer tank 7, and is arranged at the bottom of the outer tank 7. The detection value of the electric conductivity sensor 17 is used for determining the presence or absence of water in the outer tank 7, detecting the hardness of the water in the outer tank 7, detecting the degree of water contamination in the outer tank 7, and the like.

The control device 18 has a function of controlling each device based on information input from the operation panel 3, detection values of each sensor, and the like. Although not shown, the control device 18 includes electronic circuits such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a ROM (Read Only Memory), a RAM (Random Access Memory), and various interfaces. Then, the program stored in the ROM is read out and expanded in the RAM, and the CPU executes various processes.

A water supply-related device such as a water supply unit 19, a bath water absorption pump 20, and a water level sensor 16 is installed on the rear side of the detergent container 12 in the housing 1.
The water supply unit 19 includes a water supply solenoid valve 19a. As such a water supply solenoid valve 19a, a detergent water supply solenoid valve, a softener water supply solenoid valve, an outer tank water supply solenoid valve, and a cooling water water supply solenoid valve are provided (the names of the respective valves are shown in FIG. 14A). ing). The detergent water supply solenoid valve is a valve for switching between water supply / shutoff to the detergent container 12. The softener water supply solenoid valve is a valve for switching between water supply / shutoff via a pipe (not shown) for softener (for softener).

Of the water supply solenoid valves 19a, the outer tank water supply solenoid valve is a valve for switching between water supply / shutoff to the outer tank 7. The cooling water supply solenoid valve is a valve for switching between supply / shutoff of cooling water used for cooling the air passing through a dehumidifying duct (not shown). The bath water absorption pump 20 is a pump for sucking the remaining hot water of the bath through a water absorption hose (not shown) and supplying the remaining hot water to the outer tank 7.

FIG. 3 is an explanatory diagram including an internal configuration of a circulation pump 13 included in the washer / dryer.
Note that FIG. 3 shows a state in which the lid (not shown) of the circulation pump 13 is removed. The circulation pump 13 includes a circulation pump motor 13a (see FIG. 4), a runner (not shown), and a casing 13b. The circulation pump motor 13a (see FIG. 4) is a drive source for rotating the runner. The runner (not shown) is an impeller that rotates integrally with the shaft of the circulation pump motor 13a.

The casing 13b accommodates a runner and the like. Near the center of the bottom of the casing 13b, a suction port 13c for guiding water to the inside of the casing 13b is provided. The casing 13b is provided with a first discharge port 13d and a second discharge port 13e. The connection destinations of the first discharge port 13d and the second discharge port 13e will be described later.

A filter case 13f is installed (or integrally formed) on the casing 13b. The filter case 13f houses a filter (not shown) for removing foreign matter from the washing water. A water inlet 13g and a water outlet 13h are provided on the back side of the bottom of the filter case 13f (on the right side of the paper in FIG. 3). The water inlet 13g is an opening that guides water flowing from the drainage port 7c (see FIG. 2) of the outer tank 7 through the circulation hose H2 (see FIG. 2) to the filter case 13f. The water outlet 13h is an opening that guides the washing water from which foreign matter has been removed by the filter case 13f to the internal drain hose H4 (see FIG. 4).

FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram showing the arrangement of equipment in the lower part of the outer tub 7 of the washer / dryer 100.
As a tubular member, the washing / drying machine 100 includes an internal drain hose H4 in addition to the bellows hose H1 (see FIG. 2), a circulation hose H2 (see FIGS. 2 and 4), and an external drain hose H3 (see FIG. 2). A connection hose H5, a watering hose H6, a watering nozzle H7 (see FIG. 2), and a detergent dissolving hose H8 are provided.

As described above, the circulation hose H2 shown in FIG. 4 is a pipe for guiding water (washing water) from the drain port 7c (see FIG. 2) of the outer tank 7 to the circulation pump 13. The upstream end of the circulation hose H2 is connected to the drainage port 7c (see FIG. 2) of the outer tank 7, and the downstream end is connected to the water inlet 13g (see FIG. 3) of the filter case 13f. The "first flow path" that guides water from the bottom (lower part) of the outer tank 7 to the circulation pump 13 includes the circulation hose H2.

The internal drain hose H4 is a pipe that guides the washing water from which foreign matter has been removed by the filter case 13f to the external drain hose H3 (see FIG. 2) via the drain valve 14 (see FIG. 2). The upstream end of the internal drain hose H4 is connected to the outlet 13h (see FIG. 3) of the circulation pump 13, and the downstream end is connected to the drain valve 14 (see FIG. 2).

The connection hose H5 is a pipe that guides the water discharged from the circulation pump 13 to the watering hose H6. The upstream end of the connection hose H5 is connected to the first discharge port 13d (see FIG. 3) of the circulation pump 13, and the downstream end is connected to the watering hose H6. The watering hose H6 is a pipe that guides the water flowing in through the connecting hose H5 to the watering nozzle H7, and is installed on the outer peripheral surface on the front side of the outer tank cover 8.

The watering nozzle H7 (see FIG. 2) is a nozzle that sprinkles water flowing in through the watering hose H6 inside the drum 5 (see FIG. 2), and is provided on the upper portion of the outer tank cover 8. The watering nozzle H7 is formed in a slit shape so that the water to be sprinkled spreads horizontally in a thin film shape.

When the circulation pump 13 rotates in the forward direction with the drain valve 14 (see FIG. 2) closed, the washing water stored in the outer tub 7 becomes the drain port 7c (see FIG. 2), the circulation hose H2, and the water inlet 13 g. (See FIG. 3) is sequentially guided to the filter case 13f. Then, the water from which the foreign matter has been removed by the filter (not shown) in the filter case 13f flows into the casing 13b through the suction port 13c (see FIG. 3) of the circulation pump 13 and flows into the casing 13b of the runner (not shown). It becomes a swirling flow by centrifugal force and is discharged through the first discharge port 13d. The water discharged through the first discharge port 13d is sequentially sprinkled from the watering nozzle H7 to the inside of the drum 5 via the connecting hose H5 and the watering hose H6.

The "second flow path" for guiding water from the circulation pump 13 to the upper part of the outer tank 7 includes a connecting hose H5, a watering hose H6, and a watering nozzle H7. Then, the detergent water accumulated in the bottom of the outer tank 7 is sprinkled on the drum 5 via the above-mentioned "first flow path" and "second flow path" in order. As a result, the high-concentration detergent water spreads over the entire clothes, so that the washing power and water saving of the washer / dryer 100 can be achieved at the same time.

The detergent melting hose H8 (see also FIG. 2) shown in FIG. 4 is a pipe for guiding water from the circulation pump 13 to the bottom of the outer tank 7. The upstream end of the detergent melting hose H8 is connected to the second discharge port 13e (see FIG. 3) of the circulation pump 13, and the downstream end is connected to the inflow port 7d of the recessed portion 7b of the outer tank 7.

The connection point at the downstream end of the detergent melting hose H8 is not limited to this, and may be any other place as long as it is the bottom of the outer tank 7. Further, the "third flow path" that guides water from the circulation pump 13 to the bottom of the outer tank 7 includes a detergent melting hose H8.

When the circulation pump 13 rotates in the reverse direction with the drain valve 14 closed, the washing water stored in the outer tub 7 becomes the drain port 7c (see FIG. 2), the circulation hose H2, and the water inlet 13 g (see FIG. 3). Is sequentially guided to the filter case 13f. Then, the water from which the foreign matter has been removed by the filter (not shown) in the filter case 13f flows into the casing 13b through the suction port 13c (see FIG. 3) of the circulation pump 13 and flows into the casing 13b of the runner (see FIG. 3). It becomes a swirling flow by centrifugal force and is discharged through the second discharge port 13e. The water discharged through the second discharge port 13e is sequentially guided to the bottom of the outer tank 7 via the detergent melting hose H8 and the inflow port 7d.

In the present embodiment, in the pipe cleaning step described later, the water heated by the hot water heater 15 is sequentially circulated through the circulation hose H2 and the detergent melting hose H8. By circulating hot water in this way, dirt (sebum and detergent residue) adhering to the inner surface of the circulation hose H2 and the detergent dissolving hose H8 is dissolved in the washing water and washed away.

FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the hot water heater 15 included in the washer / dryer.
As shown in FIG. 5, the hot water heater 15 includes a heating unit 15a, a thermistor 15b (temperature sensor), flanges 15c and 15d, rubber packing 15e, and a pair of terminals 15f and 15g.
The heating portion 15a is a heat source for heating the water at the bottom of the outer tank 7, and is a metal tube 15am having an M-shaped bend and a coil-shaped heating wire housed in the metal tube 15am. It is equipped with 15aw. The heating wire 15aw is covered with an insulating powder for the insulation between the metal tube 15am and the heating wire 15aw. Further, thermal fuses (not shown) are provided at both ends of the heating wire 15aw. Then, when the temperature of the hot water heater 15 becomes abnormally high, the thermal fuse is blown to shut off the power supply.

The thermistor 15b detects the temperature of water at the bottom of the outer tank 7, and is provided in the vicinity of the heating portion 15a. In this embodiment, the thermistor 15b is arranged at the bottom of the outer tank 7 (see FIG. 6). The detected value of the thermistor 15b is output to the control device 18 (see FIG. 2).

The flanges 15c and 15d are used for installing the hot water heater 15 in the outer tank 7. The rubber packing 15e ensures watertightness between the hot water heater 15 and the outer tank 7, and is predeterminedly installed on the flanges 15c and 15d. The pair of terminals 15f and 15g are electrically connected to an external power supply (not shown) heating wire 15aw, and are installed at both ends of the M-shaped heating portion 15a.

The screws M and nuts N shown in FIG. 5 are used for fixing the hot water heater 15 to the outer tank 7. Specifically, the heating portion 15a is inserted from the outside into a predetermined hole provided in the outer tank 7 (see FIG. 6) (a hole whose edge is one size larger than the peripheral surface of the rubber packing 15e: not shown). Further, the nut N is tightened with respect to the screw M in a state where the flange 15c is in contact with the wall surface of the outer tank 7. As a result, the rubber packing 15e is compressed in the longitudinal direction of the hot water heater 15, while the rubber packing 15e swells in the direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction. As a result, the hot water heater 15 is fixed in the vicinity of the recessed portion 7b (see FIG. 6) of the outer tank 7 (see FIG. 6), and the watertightness between the hot water heater 15 and the outer tank 7 is ensured.

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of the bottom of the outer tub 7 included in the washer / dryer 100, looking down from diagonally above.
In the example of FIG. 6, a metal (for example, stainless steel) heater plate 7e is installed on the wall surface of the recessed portion 7b of the outer tank 7. Then, the heating portion 15a of the hot water heater 15 is fixed to the heater plate 7e with the fixing metal fitting J.

The electric conductivity sensor 17 includes two electrodes 17a and 17b arranged so as to face each other. Then, the control device 18 (see FIG. 2) calculates the electric conductivity based on the detected value of the electric resistance between the electrodes 17a and 17b, and further, based on this electric conductivity, the water in the outer tank 7 is water. The presence or absence is determined and the hardness of water is calculated. In addition, the control device 18 calculates the detergent concentration of the detergent solution and the stain concentration of the detergent solution (a numerical value indicating the degree of stain of water) based on the electric conductivity of water. ing.

As shown in FIG. 6, the electric conductivity sensor 17 is installed at a position higher than that of the hot water heater 15. Then, when it is determined that water is not accumulated in the outer tank 7 based on the detection value of the electric conductivity sensor 17, the control device 18 prevents the hot water heater 15 from being energized. This makes it possible to prevent the hot water heater 15 from being heated in the air. Since a stainless steel heater plate 7e having a relatively low thermal conductivity is installed on the bottom surface of the recessed portion 7b of the outer tank 7, the hot water heater 15 is temporarily heated due to a malfunction of the sensors. Even if it does, there is almost no risk of adverse effects on peripheral parts.

FIG. 7 is a flowchart of the process executed by the control device of the washer / dryer (see FIGS. 1 and 2 as appropriate).
Although omitted in FIG. 7, the control device 18 is activated when the power switch 3a (see FIG. 2) is pressed and the power is turned on, and is a series shown in FIG. 7 based on a predetermined program. It is designed to execute the processing of. That is, the control device 18 sequentially performs the washing step (S100), the rinsing step (S200, S300), the pipe cleaning step (S400), and the dehydration step (S500).

After the dehydration step of step S500, in step S600, the control device 18 determines whether or not the washing / drying course operation is selected by the user's operation. When the washing / drying course operation is selected (S600: Yes), the control device 18 in step S700 ends a series of processes after performing the drying step (END). On the other hand, when the washing / drying course operation is not selected in step S600 (S600: No), the control device 18 ends a series of processes without performing the drying step (S700) (END). Next, each of the above-mentioned steps will be described in detail.

FIG. 8 is a flowchart of the washing process of the washer / dryer (see FIGS. 1 and 2 as appropriate).
In step S101, the control device 18 performs cloth amount sensing. That is, the control device 18 rotates the drum 5 in a predetermined manner by driving the motor 10, and calculates the weight of clothing in the drum 5 based on the current value of the motor 10. Then, the control device 18 appropriately determines the amount of water in each subsequent treatment and the control content of the motor 10 based on the weight of the clothes.

In step S102, the control device 18 dissolves detergent and supplies water. Specifically, the control device 18 first opens the detergent water supply solenoid valve (see FIG. 14A) of the water supply unit 19. As a result, tap water is supplied to the detergent container 12 via the detergent water supply electromagnetic valve, and the water in which the detergent is dissolved is the outlet 12a (see FIG. 2), the bellows hose H1 (see FIG. 2), and the water supply port. 7a (see FIG. 2) is sequentially supplied to the inside of the outer tank 7. Then, when the water in the outer tank 7 melts the detergent and reaches the water level based on the detection value of the water level sensor 16, the control device 18 closes the detergent water supply electromagnetic valve to stop the water supply, and then turns the circulation pump 13 on. Rotate in the reverse direction. As a result, the water and detergent collected at the bottom of the outer tank 7 circulate in a predetermined manner. Further, since the detergent is agitated by the rotation of the runner (not shown) of the circulation pump 13 and dissolved in water, a detergent solution having a high detergent concentration is generated.

In step S103, the control device 18 performs rotary water supply. That is, the control device 18 maintains the detergent water supply solenoid valve (see FIG. 14A) of the water supply unit 19 in an open state, drives the motor 10 to rotate the drum 5, and drives the circulation pump 13 in the forward rotation. .. As a result, the high-concentration detergent solution circulates in a predetermined manner and is sprinkled on the clothes through the watering nozzle H7.

Next, in step S104 of FIG. 8, the control device 18 performs pre-washing. That is, the control device 18 rotates the circulation pump 13 in the forward direction while rotating the drum 5 in the forward and reverse directions in a predetermined manner. As a result, a high-concentration detergent solution is supplied to the inside of the drum 5 through the watering nozzle H7, and the clothes in the drum 5 are washed.

In step S105, the control device 18 performs cloth quality sensing. That is, the control device 18 calculates the weight of the clothes containing water, and determines the cloth quality (water absorption) of the clothes based on the weight of the clothes. This determination result is appropriately reflected in the subsequent processing.

In step S106, the control device 18 processes the make-up water. That is, the control device 18 is based on the weight of the clothes calculated by the cloth amount sensing (S101) and the cloth quality of the clothes determined by the cloth quality sensing (S105), and the outer tank water supply solenoid valve of the water supply unit 19 ( (See FIG. 14A) is opened to supply water to the inside of the outer tank 7. For example, in the case of a towel cloth having high water absorption, water for washing is appropriately replenished in the treatment of make-up water (S106).
In step S107, the control device 18 performs the main wash A process. The process of this main washing A will be described with reference to FIGS. 9A and 9B.

9A and 9B are flowcharts of the main washing A process of the washer / dryer (see FIGS. 1 and 2 as appropriate).
In step S107a of FIG. 9A, the control device 18 supplies water. That is, the control device 18 supplies water based on the detection value of the water level sensor 16 until the water level of the water stored in the outer tank 7 reaches a predetermined reset water level.

In step S107b, the control device 18 determines whether or not the electric conductivity σ is a predetermined value σ1 or more. The electric conductivity σ is detected by an electric conductivity sensor 17 (see FIG. 6) provided at the bottom of the outer tank 7. When the electric conductivity σ is equal to or higher than the predetermined value σ1 in step S107b (S107b: Yes), since water is present at the bottom of the outer tank 7, the process of the control device 18 proceeds to step S107c.

In step S107c, the control device 18 switches the hot water heater 15 to ON.
In step S107d, the control device 18 determines whether or not the current value I of the hot water heater 15 is equal to or greater than the predetermined value I1. When the current value I of the hot water heater 15 is equal to or higher than the predetermined value I1 (S107d: Yes), the control device 18 determines in step S107e that the hot water heater 15 has not been disconnected, and proceeds to the process of step S107f.
In step S107f, the control device 18 switches the hot water heater 15 to OFF.

Further, when the electric conductivity σ is less than the predetermined value σ1 in step S107b (S107b: No), the control device 18 executes the main washing in step S107i for a predetermined time without switching the hot water heater 15 to ON. Further, when the current value I of the hot water heater 15 is less than the predetermined value I1 in step S107d (S107d: No), the control device 18 determines that the hot water heater 15 is disconnected in step S107g. Then, after switching the hot water heater 15 to OFF (S107h), the control device 18 executes the main washing for a predetermined time (S107i).

After performing the process of step S107f or S107i, in step S107j, the control device 18 determines whether or not the current value I of the hot water heater 15 in the OFF state is less than the predetermined value I2. When the current value I of the hot water heater 15 is equal to or higher than the predetermined value I2 (S107j: No), the control device 18 determines that a short circuit has occurred in the control circuit (not shown) of the hot water heater 15 (S107k). Turn off the power.

On the other hand, when the current value I of the hot water heater 15 is less than the predetermined value I2 in step S107j (S107j: Yes), the control device 18 determines that a short circuit has not occurred in the control circuit (not shown) of the hot water heater 15. (S107m), stirring is performed by driving the motor 10 while rotating the circulation pump 13 in the forward direction (S107n).

Next, in step S107p of FIG. 9B, the control device 18 determines whether or not the water level of the outer tank 7 is equal to or lower than the predetermined reset water level. As described above, the water level of the outer tank 7 is detected by the water level sensor 16. In step S107p, when the water level of the outer tank 7 is equal to or lower than the reset water level (S107p: Yes), the control device 18 supplies water to the outer tank 7 in step S107q, and proceeds to the process of step S107r. On the other hand, in step S107p, when the water level of the outer tank 7 is higher than the reset water level (S107p: No), the control device 18 proceeds to the process of step S107r without supplying water.

In step S107r, the control device 18 performs a predetermined stirring operation by driving the motor 10 while rotating the circulation pump 13 in the forward direction.
In step S107s, the control device 18 determines whether or not a predetermined time has elapsed. When the predetermined time has elapsed in step S107s (S107s: Yes), the control device 18 ends a series of processes related to the main wash A (S107 in FIG. 8). On the other hand, when the predetermined time has not elapsed in step S107s (S107s: No), the processing of the control device 18 returns to step S107p.
Next, the process of main washing B (S108 in FIG. 8) will be described with reference to FIGS. 10A and 10B.

10A and 10B are flowcharts of the main washing B process of the washer / dryer (see FIGS. 1 and 2 as appropriate).
In step S108a of FIG. 10A, the control device 18 determines whether or not the detected value of the water level sensor 16 is equal to or higher than a predetermined threshold value (so-called reset water level). When the detected value of the water level sensor 16 is less than a predetermined threshold value (S108a: No), the control device 18 supplies water in step S108b and returns to the process of step S108a. That is, the control device 18 supplies water until the water level of the outer tank 7 reaches a predetermined threshold value.

On the other hand, when the detection value of the water level sensor 16 is equal to or higher than a predetermined threshold value in step S108a (S108a: Yes), the process of the control device 18 proceeds to step S108c. In step S108c, the control device 18 determines whether or not the electric conductivity σ is a predetermined value σ1 or more. When the electric conductivity σ is a predetermined value σ1 or more (S108c: Yes), the process of the control device 18 proceeds to step S108e in FIG. 10B. In this case, since the water level of the water in the outer tank 7 is higher than that of the hot water heater 15, there is no particular problem even if the hot water heater 15 is used for heating.

On the other hand, when the electric conductivity σ is less than the predetermined value σ1 in step S108c (S108c: No), the process of the control device 18 proceeds to step S108d. In this case, the water level of the outer tank 7 has dropped to a height where the heating portion 15a (see FIG. 6) of the hot water heater 15 is exposed, and this water level may not be properly detected due to a failure of the water level sensor 16 or the like. There is sex. Therefore, in step S108d, the control device 18 executes the main washing for a predetermined time while maintaining the hot water heater 15 in the OFF state. After performing the process of step S108d, the process of the control device 18 proceeds to step S108e of FIG. 10B.

In step S108e of FIG. 10B, the control device 18 determines whether or not the detected value T of the thermistor 15b is equal to or less than the predetermined value T1. As described above, the thermistor 15b is a sensor that detects the water temperature in the vicinity of the heating portion 15a of the hot water heater 15. When the detected value T of the thermistor 15b is equal to or less than the predetermined value T1 in step S108e (S108e: Yes), the process of the control device 18 proceeds to step S108f.

In step S108f, the control device 18 turns on the hot water heater 15. As a result, the water at the bottom of the outer tank 7 is heated, and the water temperature rises.
Next, in step S108g, the control device 18 determines whether or not the detected value T of the thermistor 15b is equal to or less than the predetermined value T2. The predetermined value T2 is preset as a threshold value higher than the predetermined value T1 (S108e) described above. When the detected value T of the thermistor 15b is equal to or less than the predetermined value T2 in step S108g (S108g: Yes), the process of the control device 18 proceeds to step S108h.

In step S108h, the control device 18 stirs. Specifically, the control device 18 rotates the circulation pump 13 in the forward direction while keeping the hot water heater 15 in the ON state, drives the motor 10, and agitates the water in the drum 5. Explaining the water flow path, the control device 18 rotates the circulation pump 13 in the forward direction during at least a part (S108h) of the washing step, and the water at the bottom of the outer tank 7 is circulated by the circulation hose H2 (first flow path). , The connecting hose H5 (second flow path), the watering hose H6 (second flow path), and the watering nozzle H7 (second flow path) are sequentially guided to the upper part of the outer tank 7 from the upper part of the outer tank 7. Sprinkle water on the drum 5 (inner tank). Then, the control device 18 heats the water at the bottom of the outer tank 7 with the hot water heater 15 (water heating means) while rotating the circulation pump 13 in the forward direction during at least a part (108h) of the washing process.

In step S108i, the control device 18 determines whether or not a predetermined time has elapsed from the start of the main wash B process. If a predetermined time has not elapsed since the start of the main wash B process (S108i: No), the process of the control device 18 returns to step S108g. On the other hand, when a predetermined time has elapsed from the start of the main wash B process (S108i: Yes), the process of the control device 18 proceeds to step S108j.

In step S108j, the control device 18 switches the hot water heater 15 to OFF, and ends a series of processes related to the main wash B (S108 in FIG. 8). If the detected value T of the thermistor 15b is higher than the predetermined value T2 in step S108g (S108g: No), the processing of the control device 18 proceeds to step S108k.
In step S108k, the control device 18 switches the hot water heater 15 to OFF. After that, when the water temperature becomes the predetermined value T1 or less, the control device 18 switches the hot water heater 15 to ON again (S108e: Yes, S109). By washing clothes with warm water in this way, enzymes contained in the detergent are activated and the washing power is enhanced.

Next, in step S108m, the control device 18 stirs. That is, the control device 18 rotates the circulation pump 13 in the forward direction while keeping the hot water heater 15 in the OFF state, drives the motor 10, and agitates the water in the drum 5. Even when the detected value T of the thermistor 15b is higher than the predetermined value T1 in step S108e (S108e: No), the control device 18 executes the process (stirring) of step S108m.

Next, in step S108n, the control device 18 determines whether or not a predetermined time has elapsed from the start of the main wash B process. If a predetermined time has not elapsed since the start of the main wash B process (S108n: No), the process of the control device 18 returns to step S108a in FIG. 10A. On the other hand, when a predetermined time has elapsed from the start of the main wash B process (S108n: Yes), the control device 18 ends a series of processes related to the main wash B (S108 in FIG. 8).
Next, the first rinsing step (S200 in FIG. 7) will be described with reference to FIG. 11, and then the second rinsing step (S300 in FIG. 7) will be described with reference to FIG.

FIG. 11 is a flowchart of the first rinsing step of the washer / dryer (see FIGS. 1 and 2 as appropriate).
In step S201, the control device 18 drains water. That is, the control device 18 opens the drain valve 14 to drain the washing water accumulated in the outer tub 7.
In step S202, the control device 18 performs dehydration. That is, the control device 18 rotates the drum 5 at a high speed (for example, a rotation speed of 1000 rotations / min or more) by driving the motor 10 to dehydrate the washing water contained in the clothes.
In step S203, the control device 18 performs a rotary shower. That is, while the control device 18 closes the drain valve 14, the outer tank water supply solenoid valve (see FIG. 14A) of the water supply unit 19 is opened, and the drum 5 is operated at a low speed (for example, a rotation speed of 100 rotations / min or less). ) To rotate. The rinse water is sprayed onto clothing via a fresh water shower nozzle (not shown) on the upper part of the outer tank cover 8.

Next, the control device 18 performs dehydration again in step S204, and then performs a rotary shower again in step S205. Since the processes of steps S204 and S205 are the same as those of steps S202 and S203 in this order, the description thereof will be omitted. After performing the first rinsing step (S200 in FIG. 7) in this way, the control device 18 performs the second rinsing step (S300 in FIG. 7).

FIG. 12 is a flowchart of the second rinsing step of the washer / dryer (see FIGS. 1 and 2 as appropriate).
In step S301, the control device 18 drains water. That is, the control device 18 opens the drain valve 14 and drains the rinse water accumulated in the outer tank 7.
In step S302, the control device 18 performs dehydration. That is, the control device 18 rotates the drum 5 at high speed by driving the motor 10 to dehydrate the rinse water contained in the clothes.

In step S303, the control device 18 supplies softener water. That is, the control device 18 closes the drain valve 14, while opening the softener water supply solenoid valve (see FIG. 14B) of the water supply unit 19 to generate rinse water in which the finishing agent of the detergent container 12 is dissolved.
In step S304, the control device 18 processes the rotary water supply / make-up water. That is, the control device 18 drives the circulation pump 13 in a forward rotation while supplying the rinse water to the outer tank 7 via the softener water supply solenoid valve (see FIG. 14B), and circulates the rinse water in a predetermined manner. As a result, the rinse water in which the finishing agent is dissolved is supplied to the clothes in the drum 5. Further, in step S304, the control device 18 rotates the drum 5 at a low speed by driving the motor 10 to agitate the clothes. Further, the control device 18 energizes the hot water heater 15 and heats the water in the outer tank 7 as a preparation for the next pipe cleaning step (S400: see FIG. 13).

FIG. 13 is a flowchart of the pipe washing process of the washer / dryer (see FIGS. 1 and 2 as appropriate).
In step S401, the control device 18 processes the reverse circulation. That is, the control device 18 rotates the circulation pump 13 in the reverse direction while keeping the hot water heater 15 in the ON state. As a result, hot water is circulated in a predetermined manner through the circulation hose H2 and the detergent melting hose H8 in sequence.

14A and 14B are explanatory views showing the state of the equipment in each process of the washer / dryer.
It should be noted that the “◯” mark of each valve in FIGS. 14A and 14B indicates that the valve is in the open state, and the blank indicates that the valve is in the closed state. Further, the “◯” mark of the circulation pump 13 and the blower fan in FIGS. 14A and 14B indicates the drive of the circulation pump 13 and the like, and the blank indicates that the circulation pump 13 and the like are in the stopped state. Further, the "◯" mark of the hot water heater 15 in FIGS. 14A and 14B indicates that the hot water heater 15 is energized, and the blank indicates that the hot water heater 15 is not energized.

As shown in "S401" of "Piping cleaning" in FIG. 14B, each valve is in the closed state, the circulation pump 13 is driven (reverse rotation), and the hot water heater is in the process of "reverse circulation". 15 is energized. Here, the water flow path will be described. The control device 18 reversely rotates the circulation pump 13 during at least a part (S401) of the pipe cleaning step, and causes the circulation hose H2 (first flow path) and the detergent melting hose. The water at the bottom of the outer tank 7 is heated by the hot water heater 15 (water heating means) while circulating water sequentially through H8 (third flow path).

As a result, in addition to the circulation hose H2 and the casing 13b, sebum and detergent residue adhering to the inner surface of the detergent dissolving hose H8 dissolve in warm water, and dirt is easily removed. Especially in a low temperature environment such as a cold region or winter, the cleaning effect of the circulation hose H2 or the like is enhanced by using hot water as compared with the case where unheated water is used.

If the control device 18 rotates the circulation pump 13 in the forward direction in the pipe cleaning step, hot water mixed with sebum and detergent residue is sprinkled inside the drum 5, but in the present embodiment, the circulation pump 13 is rotated in the reverse direction. I try to let you. This makes it possible to prevent the clothes in the drum 5 from being sprinkled with dirty water. Further, since the water level in the outer tank 7 during the pipe cleaning step is supplied so as to be lower than the height position of the lower end of the drum 5 (inner tank), dirty water enters the drum 5. There is little fear. The "lower end" of the drum 5 is a position where the height position is the lowest in the cylindrical drum 5 which is inclined at a predetermined value.

Further, the control device 18 discharges the water supplied to the outer tank 7 via the water supply solenoid valve 19a (outer tank water supply solenoid valve of FIG. 14B) during at least a part (S401) of the pipe cleaning process. 14 is circulated in a predetermined manner with the valve closed. In the example of the present embodiment, the control device 18 causes the water supplied to the outer tank 7 via the water supply solenoid valve 19a in the rinsing process to be circulated in a predetermined manner during at least a part of the pipe cleaning process (S401). ing. As a result, the water used in the rinsing process is used as it is in the pipe cleaning process, so that it is possible to save water and shorten the time required for the pipe cleaning process.

Further, the control device 18 supplies the water supplied to the outer tank 7 via the water supply solenoid valve 19a (outer tank water supply solenoid valve of FIG. 14B) in the rinsing step to the hot water heater 15 (water heating means) prior to the pipe cleaning step. (S304 in FIG. 14B), and the heating by the hot water heater 15 is continued until the end of at least one period (S401) of the pipe cleaning step. As a result, the inner surface of the circulation hose H2 or the like can be cleaned with warm water from the start of the pipe cleaning process.

After performing the reverse circulation for a predetermined time in step S401 of FIG. 13, in step S402, the control device 18 determines whether or not the electric conductivity σ is a predetermined value σ2 or more. The predetermined value σ2 is a threshold value related to the degree of water contamination and is set in advance.

It should be noted that the detection value of the electric conductivity of the detergent water generated in the outer tank 7 during the detergent-dissolved water supply (S102 in FIG. 8) is set as the upper limit, and the outer tank 7 is used during the rotary water supply / make-up water supply (S304 in FIG. 12). A value obtained by multiplying the difference (absolute value) between the upper limit and the lower limit by a predetermined ratio may be set as a predetermined value σ2 with the detected value of the electric conductivity of the generated rinse water as the lower limit. As a result, the control device 18 can appropriately determine the degree of contamination of the hot water (S402) based on the amount of change in the electrical conductivity of the rinse water before and after the reverse circulation (S401).

When the electric conductivity σ is equal to or higher than the predetermined value σ2 in step S402 (S402: Yes), the process of the control device 18 proceeds to step S403. In this case, the degree of contamination of the sebum and detergent components remaining in the warm water is relatively high. Therefore, in order to perform the additional pipe cleaning (S406), first, steps S403 to S405 are sequentially performed.

In step S403, the control device 18 drains water. That is, the control device 18 opens the drain valve 14 to drain the water accumulated in the outer tank 7. In step S404, the control device 18 performs dehydration. That is, the control device 18 rotates the drum 5 at high speed by driving the motor 10 to dehydrate the rinse water contained in the clothes.

In step S405, the control device 18 supplies water. That is, the control device 18 opens the outer tank water supply solenoid valve of the water supply unit 19 to supply water to a predetermined water level. Specifically, the control device 18 supplies water to the outer tank 7 so that the water level in the outer tank 7 is lower than the height position of the lower end of the drum 5 (inner tank). This is to prevent dirty water from entering the drum 5 in the next additional pipe cleaning (S406).

In step S406, the control device 18 performs additional pipe cleaning. That is, the control device 18 rotates the circulation pump 13 in the reverse direction while turning on the hot water heater 15 in the same manner as in the reverse circulation (S401). As described above, in the control device 18, after the period of at least a part (S401) of the pipe cleaning step, the detection value of the electric conductivity sensor 17 (dirt degree detecting means) is a predetermined value σ2 or more (S402: Yes. ), The water in the outer tank is drained through the drain valve 14 (S403), and then the water is supplied to the outer tank 7 again via the water supply solenoid valve 19a (outer tank water supply solenoid valve in FIG. 14B) (S405). Then, the control device 18 performs additional pipe cleaning (S406) in which the circulation pump 13 is rotated in the reverse direction while heating the water supplied to the outer tank 7 again by the hot water heater 15 (water heating means). As a result, the hot water circulates again through the circulation hose H2 and the detergent dissolving hose H8, so that the dirt on each hose is further washed away.

Further, when the electric conductivity σ is less than the predetermined value σ2 in step S402 (S402: No), the control device 18 does not perform processing such as additional pipe cleaning (S408), and is a series of pipe cleaning steps (S400). Ends the processing of. In this case, there is little dirt such as sebum and detergent residue remaining on the circulation hose H2 and the detergent melting hose H8.

Next, in step S500 of FIG. 7, the control device 18 performs a dehydration step. That is, the control device 18 rotates the drum 5 at high speed by driving the motor 10 to scatter and dehydrate the rinse water contained in the clothes and the rinse water adhering to the surface of the drum 5.

Then, when the washing / drying course operation is selected in step S600 of FIG. 7 (S600: Yes), the control device 18 executes the drying step in step S700. That is, the control device 18 opens the cooling water supply solenoid valve (see FIG. 14B) and the intake valve (see FIG. 14B) to drive the blower fan (see FIG. 14B). As a result, the clothes in the drum 5 are dried. After performing the process of step S700, the control device 18 ends a series of processes (END).

<Effect>
According to the present embodiment, in the pipe cleaning step (S400 in FIG. 7), the circulation pump 13 and the hot water heater 15 are used in combination, so that the flow path including the circulation hose H2 and the detergent melting hose H8 is washed with hot water. Ru. Further, since the hot water heated by the hot water heater 15 circulates in a predetermined manner, dirt (sebum and washing residue) on the inner surface of the flow path described above dissolves in the hot water and is washed away. As a result, even when the washer / dryer 100 is used for a long period of time, it is possible to suppress the accumulation of dirt in the water flow path, and by extension, the growth of mold and the generation of offensive odors can be suppressed. As described above, according to the present embodiment, it is possible to provide the washer / dryer 100 that appropriately cleans the flow path of water.

Further, even in a low temperature environment such as a cold region or winter, sebum and detergent residue dissolve in warm water in the reverse circulation (S401 in FIG. 13) and additional pipe cleaning (S406) in the pipe cleaning process, so that the circulation hose H2 and the like are clean. It is kept in a good condition. Further, as a means for heating the water in the outer tank 7, the hot water heater 15 is also used in both the washing step and the pipe washing step. As a result, the manufacturing cost of the washer / dryer 100 can be reduced as compared with the case where separate hot water heaters are used in the washing step and the pipe washing step.

Further, when the detection value (degree of water contamination) of the electric conductivity sensor 17 is equal to or higher than the predetermined value (S402: Yes) after the reverse circulation (S401 in FIG. 13) is executed in the pipe cleaning step for a predetermined time, hot water is used. Additional pipe cleaning is performed using the heater 15 and the circulation pump 13 together (S406 in FIG. 13). As a result, the dirt remaining on the circulation hose H2 and the like is further removed.

Further, when the detection value (degree of water contamination) of the electric conductivity sensor 17 is less than a predetermined value (S402: No), the additional pipe cleaning (S406) is not executed. That is, when the circulation hose H2 or the like is in a relatively clean state, the control device 18 moves to the dehydration step (S500) without performing additional pipe cleaning. As a result, wasteful water supply is suppressed, and the energization time of the circulation pump 13 and the hot water heater 15 is also suppressed, so that water saving and energy saving can be achieved.

≪Variation example≫
Although the washer / dryer 100 according to the present invention has been described above in the embodiments, the present invention is not limited to these descriptions, and various modifications can be made.
For example, in the embodiment, the case where the water stored in the outer tank 7 in the rinsing process is used as it is in the pipe cleaning process has been described, but the present invention is not limited to this. That is, the control device 18 drains the water supplied to the outer tank 7 via the water supply solenoid valve 19a (outer tank water supply solenoid valve of FIG. 14B) in the rinsing step, and then drains the water through the drain valve 14, and then the water supply solenoid valve 19a. Water may be re-supplied to the outer tank 7 through the pipe, and the water re-supplied to the outer tank 7 may be circulated in a predetermined manner during at least a part of the pipe cleaning step (S401 in FIG. 13). According to such a configuration, since the pipe cleaning step is performed using clean tap water (hot water), the inner surface of the circulation hose H2 or the like can be kept clean.

Further, in the embodiment, the case where a malfunction of the sensors occurs in the pipe cleaning step (see FIG. 13) is not particularly mentioned, but the following processing may be performed. That is, when the water level detected by the water level sensor 16 is higher than the height position of the electric conductivity sensor 17, and the electric conductivity detected by the electric conductivity sensor 17 is less than a predetermined value, the control device 18 However, it is preferable not to perform the pipe cleaning step. According to such a configuration, when there is a high possibility that the water level sensor 16 is out of order, the hot water heater 15 can be prevented from being heated by preventing the control device 18 from performing the pipe cleaning step.

Further, when the current flowing through the thermistor 15b is less than a predetermined value while the control device 18 is energizing the thermistor 15b (temperature sensor), in at least a part of the period of the pipe cleaning step (S401 in FIG. 13). It is preferable to rotate the circulation pump 13 in the reverse direction without heating with the hot water heater 15 (water heating means). According to such a configuration, even if the thermistor 15b has a disconnection or the like, the pipe cleaning step can be performed. Further, it is possible to suppress the temperature of the hot water heater 15 from rising excessively in the pipe cleaning step, and to improve the reliability of the washer / dryer 100.

Further, for example, when a predetermined button provided on the washing / drying machine 100 is pressed by the user and the washing course or the washing / drying course is selected, the control device 18 may perform the pipe washing step. good. As a result, if the pipe cleaning process is set to on, the pipe cleaning process is performed in the middle of the washing course or the washing / drying course without the user selecting a special cleaning course different from the washing course or the washing / drying course. Is executed. Therefore, the usability for the user can be improved.

Further, in the embodiment, the process of determining the degree of contamination of the hot water in the outer tank 7 by the control device 18 based on the detection value of the electric conductivity sensor 17 (S402 in FIG. 13) has been described, but other types are described. A sensor may be used. For example, a turbidity sensor (not shown) is provided in place of the electric conductivity sensor 17 (or together with the electric conductivity sensor 17), and the control device 18 uses hot water based on the detection value of the turbidity sensor. The degree of stain may be determined.

Further, in the embodiment, the case where the hot water heater 15 includes the thermistor 15b (see FIG. 5) has been described, but the present invention is not limited to this. That is, the thermistor (not shown) arranged at the bottom of the outer tank 7 may be provided as a member separate from the hot water heater 15. Further, a predetermined type of temperature sensor other than the thermistor may be used.

Further, in the implementation step, the process of turning on the hot water heater 15 in both the washing step and the pipe washing step by the control device 18 has been described, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the control device 18 may turn off the hot water heater 15 in the washing step and turn on the hot water heater 15 in the pipe washing step.
Further, in the embodiment, the drum-type washer-dryer 100 has been described, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the embodiment can be applied to a so-called vertical type washer-dryer, and the embodiment can also be applied to a washing machine having no drying function.

Further, the embodiments are described in detail in order to explain the present invention in an easy-to-understand manner, and are not necessarily limited to those including all the configurations described. Further, it is possible to add / delete / replace a part of the configuration of the embodiment with another configuration.
In addition, the above-mentioned mechanism and configuration show what is considered necessary for explanation, and do not necessarily show all the mechanisms and configurations in the product.

100 washer / dryer (washing machine)
1 Housing 5 Drum (inner tank)
7 Outer tank 13 Circulation pump 14 Drain valve 15 Hot water heater (water heating means)
15a Heating unit 15b Thermistor (temperature sensor)
16 Water level sensor 17 Electrical conductivity sensor (dirt degree detection means)
18 Control device 19a Water supply solenoid valve H2 Circulation hose (1st flow path)
H5 connection hose (second flow path)
H6 watering hose (second flow path)
H7 watering nozzle (second flow path)
H8 Detergent melting hose (3rd flow path)
S100 Washing process S200 First rinsing process (rinsing process)
S300 Second rinse process (rinse process)
S400 Piping cleaning process S500 Dehydration process

Claims (10)

With the housing
The outer tank installed in the housing and
The inner tank contained in the outer tank and the inner tank
A circulation pump that circulates the water in the outer tank in a predetermined manner,
A water heating means for heating the water in the outer tank and
A first flow path that guides water from the bottom of the outer tank to the circulation pump,
A second flow path that guides water from the circulation pump to the upper part of the outer tank,
It is provided with a third flow path for guiding water from the circulation pump to the bottom of the outer tank, and is provided with.
It is equipped with a control device that sequentially performs the washing process, rinsing process, pipe cleaning process, and dehydration process.
The control device is
The circulation pump is rotated forward during at least a part of the washing step, and the water at the bottom of the outer tank is guided to the upper part of the outer tank through the first flow path and the second flow path in sequence. Water is sprinkled from the upper part of the outer tank to the inner tank, and the water is sprinkled.
The circulation pump is rotated in the reverse direction during at least a part of the pipe cleaning step, and water is circulated through the first flow path and the third flow path in sequence, and the water at the bottom of the outer tank is circulated. A washing machine characterized by heating by water heating means. A water supply solenoid valve that switches between water supply / shutoff to the outer tank,
A drain valve for switching drainage / shutoff of water in the outer tank is provided.
The control device predeterminedly circulates the water supplied to the outer tank via the water supply solenoid valve in a state where the drain valve is closed during at least a part of the period of the pipe cleaning step. The washing machine according to claim 1, wherein the washing machine is characterized. The second aspect of the present invention is characterized in that the control device circulates water supplied to the outer tank through the water supply solenoid valve in the rinsing step in a predetermined manner during at least a part of the pipe cleaning step. The washing machine described. The control device heats the water supplied to the outer tank through the water supply electromagnetic valve in the rinsing step by the water heating means prior to the pipe cleaning step, and at least a part of the pipe cleaning step. The washing machine according to claim 3, wherein heating by the water heating means is continued until the end of the period. The control device drains the water supplied to the outer tank through the water supply solenoid valve in the rinsing step through the drain valve, and then supplies water to the outer tank again via the water supply solenoid valve. The washing machine according to claim 2, wherein the water re-supplied to the outer tub is circulated in a predetermined manner during at least a part of the period of the pipe cleaning step. The control device heats the water at the bottom of the outer tank by the water heating means while rotating the circulation pump in the forward direction during at least a part of the washing step.
The washing machine according to claim 1, wherein the water heating means is also used in both the washing step and the pipe washing step as the means for heating the water in the outer tub. A dirt degree detecting means for detecting the degree of dirtiness of the water in the outer tank is provided.
After the period of at least a part of the pipe cleaning step, the control device drains the water in the outer tank through the drain valve when the detection value of the dirt degree detecting means is equal to or higher than a predetermined value. The outer tank is re-supplied via the water supply electromagnetic valve, and the water re-supplied to the outer tank is heated by the water heating means while performing additional pipe cleaning by rotating the circulation pump in the reverse direction. The washing machine according to claim 2. The washing machine according to claim 1, wherein the water level in the outer tub when the pipe cleaning step is performed is lower than the height position of the lower end of the inner tub. A water level sensor that detects the water level in the outer tank, and
With an electrical conductivity sensor located at the bottom of the outer tank,
When the water level detected by the water level sensor is higher than the height position of the electric conductivity sensor and the electric conductivity detected by the electric conductivity sensor is less than a predetermined value, the control device is subjected to the control device. The washing machine according to claim 1, wherein the pipe cleaning step is not performed. It is equipped with a temperature sensor located at the bottom of the outer tank.
When the current flowing through the temperature sensor is less than a predetermined value while the temperature sensor is energized, the control device heats the water sensor by the water heating means during at least a part of the period of the pipe cleaning step. The washing machine according to claim 1, wherein the circulation pump is rotated in the reverse direction without performing the above.

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