JP2022503489A - Washing machine and control method - Google Patents

Abstract

The present invention belongs to the field of washing machines, and specifically relates to washing machines and control methods. The washing machine communicates with an outer tub, a particle storage device having a storage chamber communicating with the outer tub and accommodating cleaning particles in the storage chamber, and an outer tub / storage chamber, and the medium is outside with cleaning particles. Includes a power unit that enters the interior of the tank and drives it to perform automatic cleaning. The beneficial effects of the present invention are as follows. That is, a particle storage device and a power device are installed, and the power device drives the medium to enter the inside of the outer tank together with the cleaning particles in the particle storage device, so that the cleaning particles and dirt and mold on the outer tank are removed. Automatic cleaning is realized by generating collision and friction.
[Selection diagram] Fig. 2

Description

The present invention belongs to the field of washing machines, and specifically relates to washing machines and control methods thereof.

Dirt brought in by washing water, free matter from powder detergent, cellulose of clothes, organic substances of human body and dust brought in by clothes often remain inside the washing machine. In addition, the inside of the washing machine is relatively damp. Since these conditions provide a favorable environment for the growth of bacteria, the bacteria grow and an offensive odor is generated inside the washing machine.

The washing machine includes an inner tub and an outer tub coaxially installed outside the inner tub, and the washing water realizes flow between the inner tub and the outer tub through a water flow hole on the inner tub. As a result, the residual filth becomes serious in the gap between the inner tank and the outer tank, and as a result, serious secondary contamination of clothing is likely to occur, which is harmful to the health of the human body.

Currently, it is possible to reduce the residual area of filth by designing the inner tank as an inner tank without holes, but the filth not only remains in the gap between the inner tank and the outer tank, but also in the wrinkles of the window gasket. It also remains on parts such as water supply hoses and detergent cases. Since these parts are difficult to clean, offensive odors become noticeable, especially in the summer, which is very annoying to users.

In view of the above, the present invention is proposed.

The technical problem to be solved by the present invention is to install a particle storage device and a power device in order to eliminate the defects of the prior art, and the medium is provided with the cleaning particles in the particle storage device by the power device. It is to provide a washing machine and a control method that realizes automatic cleaning by driving the cleaning particles to enter the inside and causing collision and friction between the cleaning particles and dirt and mold.

In order to solve the above technical problems, the basic idea of the technical plan adopted in the present invention is as follows.

The washing machine communicates with an outer tub, a particle storage device having a storage chamber communicating with the outer tub and accommodating cleaning particles in the storage chamber, and an outer tub / storage chamber, and the medium is accompanied by cleaning particles in the outer tub. Includes a power unit, which drives the interior of the vehicle to perform automatic cleaning.

The power unit is a blower. The exhaust end of the blower communicates with the storage chamber. The power unit drives the air to enter the storage chamber and to the inside of the outer tub with cleaning particles.

Alternatively, the intake end of the blower device communicates with the outer tank. The power unit generates an air flow by sucking the air in the outer tank, and sucks the cleaning particles in the storage chamber into the outer tank.

In the blower, the exhaust end communicates with the storage chamber and the intake end communicates with the outer tank.

Alternatively, in the blower, the intake end communicates with the outer tank and the exhaust end communicates with the storage chamber. The power unit drives the medium to circulate between the outer tub and the storage chamber with cleaning particles.

Preferably, the storage chamber and the outer tank communicate with each other through a transport air passage. In the blower, the exhaust end communicates with the storage chamber, and the intake end communicates with the outer tank through the return air passage.

Alternatively, in the blower, the intake end communicates with the outer tank, and the exhaust end communicates with the storage chamber through the return air passage. A circulating air passage is formed by a transport air passage and a return air air passage.

Further, it includes a particle collecting device installed in the transport air passage and / or the return air passage. The particle collecting device has a collecting chamber, which communicates with a transport air passage and / or a return air air passage to collect cleaning particles.

Preferably, the blower has an exhaust end communicating with the storage chamber and an intake end communicating with the outer tank through a return air passage. The particle collecting device is installed in the return air passage, and the collection chamber communicates with the return air passage.

The collection chamber is provided with an opening control mechanism capable of opening / closing the collection chamber. The opening control mechanism collects cleaning particles in the collection chamber by shutting off the collection chamber.

Alternatively, the circulation air passage is provided with an auxiliary path and a switching mechanism. Both ends of the auxiliary path communicate with the circulating air passages on both sides of the particle collector, respectively. The switching mechanism is installed at the connection point between the auxiliary path and the circulation air passage. The switching mechanism switches the opening between the circulation air passage / auxiliary path.

Preferably, the opening control mechanism is a filter plate / filter net. The filter plate / filter net is installed between the collection chamber and the two communication ports that communicate the return air passage. The filter plate / filter net is movably connected to the collection chamber. The filter plate / filter net is switched between blocking / opening two communication ports that communicate the collection chamber and the return air passage.

More preferably, the filter plate / filter net is slidably connected to the particle collector.

The storage chamber is provided with an opening control mechanism capable of opening / closing the storage chamber. The opening control mechanism collects cleaning particles in the storage chamber by shutting off the storage chamber.

Preferably, the opening control mechanism is a filter plate / filter net. The filter plate / filter net is installed between the communication port between the storage chamber and the outer tank and the communication port between the storage chamber and the blower. The filter plate / filter net is movably connected to the storage chamber. The filter plate / filter net is switched between blocking / opening the two communication ports.

Preferably, the filter plate / filter net is slidably connected to the storage chamber.

More preferably, the washing machine is a drum washing machine, a pulsator washing machine or a washing / drying integrated machine.

The washing machine also includes a window gasket for the glass door and / or a detergent case and / or an input duct that communicates with the detergent case. The window gasket is partially folded to form a fold path. The fold path and / or the detergent case and / or the input duct all communicate with the storage chamber. The power unit drives the medium to enter the fold path and / or the detergent case and / or the loading duct with the cleaning particles and automatically clean the appropriate parts.

Preferably, the transport air passage has a fold path and / or a branch path corresponding to a detergent case and / or a charging duct. The exhaust end of the branch path communicates with the corresponding fold path and / or detergent case and / or input duct.

More preferably, the return air passage has a fold path and / or a return air branch path corresponding to a detergent case and / or an inlet duct. The intake end of the return air branch path communicates with the fold path and / or the detergent case and / or the input duct, respectively.

A method of controlling a washing machine, in which the washing machine has an outer tub, a particle storage device having a storage chamber communicating with the outer tub and accommodating cleaning particles in the storage chamber, and power communicating with the outer tub / storage chamber. Equipment, including.

In the control method, when the washing machine is controlled to activate the power unit, the power unit is driven so that the medium enters the inside of the outer tub with the cleaning particles and performs automatic cleaning.

The exhaust end of the blower communicates with the storage chamber. The storage chamber and the outer tank communicate with each other through a transport air passage, and the intake end of the blower and the outer tank communicate with each other through a return air passage. The washing machine further includes a particle collecting device installed in the transport air passage and / or the return air air passage. The particle collecting device has a collecting chamber, and the collecting chamber is provided with an opening control mechanism capable of opening / closing the collecting chamber.

In the control method, when the washing machine is controlled to activate the power unit and the opening control mechanism is controlled to open the collection chamber, the power unit causes the medium to enter the inside of the outer tub with the cleaning particles. Drive to perform automatic cleaning. Further, when the opening control mechanism is controlled so that the washing machine shuts off the collection chamber, cleaning particles are collected in the storage chamber.

The storage chamber is provided with an opening control mechanism capable of opening / closing the storage chamber.

In the control method, when the washing machine controls to activate the power unit and the opening control mechanism opens the storage chamber, the power unit enters the inside of the outer tub with the cleaning particles in the storage chamber. Drive to perform automatic cleaning. Further, when the washing machine controls the opening control mechanism so as to shut off the storage chamber, the opening control mechanism damps the cleaning particles in the storage chamber.

The washing machine automatically communicates with the outer tub, a particle collecting device having a collecting chamber communicating with the outer tub, and the collecting chamber / outer tub, and the medium enters the collecting chamber with the cleaning particles in the outer tub. Includes a power unit, which drives to perform cleaning.

The power device is an intake device. The intake end of the intake device communicates with the collection chamber. Automatic cleaning is performed in the process in which the air in the outer tank enters the collection chamber together with the cleaning particles in the outer tank by the suction of the intake device.

Preferably, the intake device is an intake fan.

A method of controlling a washing machine, the washing machine includes an outer tub, a particle collecting device having a collecting chamber communicating with the outer tub, and a power device communicating with the collecting chamber / outer tub.

In the control method, when the washing machine is controlled to activate the power unit, the power unit is driven to perform automatic cleaning in the process of the medium entering the collection chamber with the cleaning particles in the outer tub.

The power unit is an intake device, and the intake end of the intake device communicates with the collection chamber.

The washing machine communicates with the outer tub, a particle collecting device having a collection chamber communicating with the outer tub, and the medium enters the outer tub, accompanied by cleaning particles in the outer tub, and performs automatic cleaning. It includes a first power device that is driven so as to communicate with the collection chamber, and a second power device that is driven so that the medium enters the collection chamber with the cleaning particles in the outer tank and realizes the collection of the cleaning particles.

The first power unit is a blower, and the exhaust end of the blower communicates with the outer tank. The second power unit is an intake device, and the intake end of the intake device communicates with the collection chamber.

Preferably, the blower is a blower fan and the intake device is an intake fan.

A method of controlling a washing machine, in which the washing machine has an outer tub, a particle collecting device having a collecting chamber communicating with the outer tub, a first power device communicating with the outer tub, and a second power communicating with the collecting chamber. Equipment, including.

In the control method, when the washing machine is controlled to activate the first power unit, the first power unit is driven so that the medium enters the outer tub and is accompanied by cleaning particles in the outer tub to perform automatic cleaning. .. Further, when the washing machine is controlled to activate the second power unit, the second power unit drives the medium to enter the collection chamber with the cleaning particles and realize the collection of the cleaning particles.

The washing machine has an outer tub and a storage chamber communicating with the outer tub, a particle storage device for accommodating cleaning particles in the storage chamber, a liquid supply end extending into the liquid medium, and a discharge end as a storage chamber. Includes a liquid transfer device, which is communicated and drives the liquid medium to enter the interior of the outer tub with cleaning particles for automatic cleaning.

The liquid supply end of the liquid transfer device communicates with the outer tank. The liquid transfer device drives the liquid medium in the outer tub to return to the inside of the outer tub with cleaning particles in the storage chamber and perform automatic cleaning.

Preferably, the liquid transfer device is a water pump. In the water pump, the liquid supply end communicates with the outer tank through the return water duct, and the liquid discharge end communicates with the storage chamber. The storage chamber communicates with the outer tank through a transport channel. A circulation channel is formed by a transport channel and a ring water duct.

A method of controlling a washing machine, in which the washing machine has an outer tub and a storage chamber communicating with the outer tub, a particle storage device for accommodating cleaning particles in the storage chamber, and a liquid supply end extending into a liquid medium. And includes a liquid transfer device, in which the discharge end communicates with the storage chamber.

In the control method, when the washing machine is controlled to activate the liquid transfer device, the liquid transfer device is driven so that the liquid medium enters the inside of the outer tub together with the cleaning particles and performs automatic cleaning.

Preferably, the liquid supply end of the liquid transfer device communicates with the outer tank.

By using the above technical plan, the present invention has the following beneficial effects as compared with the prior art.

1. 1. A particle storage device and a power unit are installed, and the power unit drives the medium to enter the inside of the outer tank together with the cleaning particles in the particle storage device, causing collision and friction between the cleaning particles and dirt and mold. By letting it, automatic cleaning is realized. Further, by installing a particle collecting device or installing an opening control mechanism in the storage chamber to collect cleaning particles, the cleaning particles can be used repeatedly. Also, by communicating the storage chamber with the fold path of the window gasket and / or the detergent case and / or the input duct, cleaning of multiple parts in the washing machine is realized, and the residual filth and the bacterial growth area are realized. Decreases. The washing machine of the present invention can effectively eradicate the residual dirt inside the washing machine and the generation of offensive odors. Moreover, it is excellent in reliability, meets the needs of users, and can effectively improve customer satisfaction.

2. 2. A particle collection device having a collection chamber and a power device that drives the medium to enter the collection room with the cleaning particles in the outer tank are installed, and the medium collects the cleaning particles in the outer tank by the power device. By driving the automatic cleaning in the process of entering the room, the cleaning of filth / mold by the cleaning particles is realized, and the collection of the cleaning particles by the particle collecting device is also realized. This improves cleaning efficiency. Further, by performing cleaning by utilizing the collision and friction between the cleaning particles and the filth / mold, the cleaning power is increased and the cleaning effect is improved. In addition, cleaning efficiency is improved by installing a communication port in the outer tank that communicates with the collection chamber close to the highest point of the outer tank and increasing the contact area between the cleaning particles and the inner wall of the outer tank as much as possible. However, a good cleaning effect can be achieved. In addition, by installing a particle charging path and a control device to realize automatic charging of cleaning particles, the degree of automation of control is improved and the user experience is improved.

3. 3. A particle collecting device, a first power device, and a second power device are installed, and the cleaning particles are driven by the first power device so that the medium enters the outer tank and moves the cleaning particles in the outer tank. Collision and friction with residual dirt and mold (for example, dirt remaining in the outer tank) occur, and automatic cleaning is realized. Further, by collecting the cleaning particles in the outer tank in the collection chamber of the particle collecting device by the second power device, the cleaning particles can be used repeatedly. When cleaning the outer tub with cleaning particles as compared with cleaning by spraying cleaning water, the cleaning force due to collision and friction is increased, so that the cleaning effect is further improved. Also, by communicating the storage chamber with the fold path of the window gasket and / or the detergent case and / or the input duct, cleaning of multiple parts in the washing machine is realized, and the residual filth and the bacterial growth area are realized. Decreases. Further, by installing the communication path and the first control device, the cleaning particles can be made to enter the particle storage device from the particle collecting device by the action of gravity, so that automation is realized and it becomes easier to use. Further, by installing the particle input path and the second control device, the cleaning particles can be made to enter the outer tank from the particle collecting device by the action of gravity, so that automation is realized and it becomes easier to use. The washing machine of the present invention can effectively eradicate the residual dirt inside the washing machine and the generation of offensive odors. Moreover, it is excellent in reliability, meets the needs of users, and can effectively improve customer satisfaction.

4. Cleaning of filth / mold is realized by adding cleaning particles to the liquid medium and utilizing the collision and friction between the cleaning particles and the outer tank. In this case, since the cleaning power is increased, the effect of removing stubborn stains is remarkable, and the removal efficiency is also excellent. Further, since the liquid medium is accompanied by cleaning particles by using a liquid transport device and the dirt on the outer tank is removed by the cleaning particles, the dirt is easily dissolved in the liquid medium or easily discharged together with the liquid medium. , The removal effect is further improved. The double cleaning using the liquid medium and the cleaning particles greatly shortens the cleaning time and further improves the cleaning effect. In addition, by installing an opening control mechanism in the storage chamber and collecting cleaning particles, the cleaning particles can be used repeatedly. Also, by communicating the storage chamber with the fold path of the window gasket and / or the detergent case and / or the input duct, cleaning of multiple parts in the washing machine is realized, and the residual filth and the bacterial growth area are realized. Decreases.

Hereinafter, specific embodiments of the present invention will be described in more detail in combination with the drawings.

FIG. 1 is a diagram showing the structure of the first washing machine of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a diagram showing the structure of the second washing machine of the present invention. FIG. 3 is a diagram showing the structure of the third washing machine of the present invention. FIG. 4 is a diagram showing the structure of the fourth washing machine of the present invention. FIG. 5 is a diagram showing the structure of the fifth washing machine of the present invention. FIG. 6 is a diagram showing the structure of the sixth washing machine of the present invention.

In order to further clarify the purpose, technical plan, and advantages of the examples in the present invention, the technical plan of the examples will be described clearly and concisely by combining the drawings according to the examples of the present invention. The following examples are for explaining the present invention and do not limit the scope of the present invention.

As shown in FIG. 1, the washing machine has an outer tub 100, a particle storage device 102 having a storage chamber 103 communicating with the outer tub 100 and accommodating cleaning particles 115 in the storage chamber 103, and an outer tub 100 /. Includes a power unit that communicates with the storage chamber 103 and drives the medium to enter the interior of the outer tub 100 with the cleaning particles 115 for automatic cleaning.

The part to be automatically cleaned here is not limited to the inner wall of the outer tub, but also other structures such as a window gasket that forms a sealed cleaning space together with the outer tub and the glass door of the washing machine, and a detergent case that communicates with the outer tub. included. Therefore, if the part can be reached by the medium that enters the outer tank by driving the power unit, the purpose of cleaning the appropriate part by using the cleaning particles can be realized.

To illustrate the case of automatically cleaning the tank wall of the outer tank, a particle storage device 102 and a power device are installed, and the medium is the inside of the outer tank 100 with the cleaning particles 115 in the particle storage device 102 by the power device. Drive to enter. As a result, collision and friction between the cleaning particles 115 and the tank wall of the outer tank 100 are generated, and dirt and mold on the tank wall are removed, thereby realizing automatic cleaning of the tank wall. According to this method, stubborn stains can be removed and the cleaning effect becomes better.

In the control method of the washing machine, when the washing machine is controlled to activate the power unit, the power unit is driven so that the medium enters the inside of the outer tub 100 with the cleaning particles 115 and automatically cleans the tub wall. do.

As shown in FIG. 1, the first embodiment is further limited in this embodiment. The power device is a blower 101, and the exhaust end of the blower 101 communicates with the storage chamber 103. The power unit drives the air to enter the storage chamber 103 and to the inside of the outer tank 100 with the cleaning particles 115.

When air is used as the medium with the cleaning particles 115, the power unit drives the air to move to form an air flow and enter the storage chamber 103. The airflow enters the outer tank 100 with the cleaning particles 115 in the storage chamber 103. The cleaning particles 115 move in the outer tank 100 together with the air flow, collide with the tank wall of the outer tank 100 and cause friction to remove dirt on the tank wall, thereby realizing cleaning of the tank wall. Compared with the method of spraying water for cleaning, the cleaning method using the cleaning particles 115 increases the collision force between the cleaning particles 115 and the outer tank 100, so that the cleaning effect is better.

The blower 101 is a blower.

As a further measure, in the blower device 101, the exhaust end communicates with the storage chamber 103, and the intake end communicates with the outer tank 100. The power unit drives the medium to circulate between the outer tub 100 and the storage chamber 103 with the cleaning particles 115. This causes the outer tub 100 to be constantly cleaned by the circulating cleaning particles 115, while saving the consumption of the cleaning particles 115.

Specifically, the storage chamber 103 and the outer tank 100 communicate with each other through the transport air passage 104. Further, in the blower device 101, the exhaust end communicates with the storage chamber 103, and the intake end communicates with the outer tank 100 through the return air passage 105. The transport air passage 104 and the return air air passage 105 form a circulation air passage, and the cleaning particles 115 realize circulation between the outer tank 100 and the storage chamber 103 through the circulation air passage.

As a further alternative, the washing machine further includes a particle collector 106 installed in the transport air passage 104 and / or the return air air passage 105. The particle collecting device 106 has a collecting chamber 107. The collection chamber 107 communicates with the transport air passage 104 and / or the return air air passage 105, and is used for collecting cleaning particles 115.

Normally, cleaning particles 115 need to be collected for next use after cleaning is complete or before the next wash. In the control method of the washing machine, when the washing machine is controlled to activate the blower 101, the blower 101 causes the medium to enter the inside of the outer tub 100 together with the cleaning particles 115, and automatically cleans the tub wall. Drive like. The washing machine also controls the particle collector 106 to collect the cleaning particles 115 into the storage chamber 103. The collection of the cleaning particles 115 is realized by installing the particle collecting device 106 in the transport air passage 104 and / or the return air passage 105.

Specifically, in the blower device 101, the exhaust end communicates with the storage chamber 103, and the intake end communicates with the outer tank 100 through the return air passage 105. The particle collecting device 106 is installed in the return air passage 105, and the collecting chamber 107 communicates with the return air passage 105.

As a further measure, an opening control mechanism capable of opening / closing the collecting chamber 107 is provided in the collecting chamber 107. The opening control mechanism collects the cleaning particles 115 in the collection chamber 107 by shutting off the collection chamber 107. By installing an opening control mechanism in the collection chamber 107 and collecting the cleaning particles 115, the cleaning particles 115 can be used repeatedly. In the control method of the washing machine, when the opening control mechanism is controlled so that the washing machine shuts off the collection chamber 107, the cleaning particles 115 enter the collection chamber 107 and are blocked, but the circulating gas passes through. As a result, the cleaning particles are collected in the collection chamber 107. Further, when the opening control mechanism is controlled so as to open the collection chamber 107, the cleaning particles 115 circulate together with the air flow.

Optimally, the opening control mechanism is a filter plate 108 / filter net. The filter plate 108 / filter net is installed between the communication port between the collection chamber 107 and the outer tank 100 and the communication port between the collection chamber 107 and the blower 101. The filter plate 108 / filter net is movably connected to the collection chamber 107. The filter plate 108 / filter net is switched between blocking / opening the two communication ports. When the washing machine controls the collection chamber 107 to be shut off by the filter plate 108 / filter net, the filter plate 108 / filter net blocks the cleaning particles 115 into the collection chamber 107, but the circulating wind is in the filter plate 108. Pass through the filter hole. As a result, the collection of the cleaning particles 115 is realized.

The shape and type of the filter plate 108 and the filter net are not limited, and a grid-like, net-like, or filter hole type filter plate 108 can be used.

For example, the filter plate 108 / filter net is slidably connected to the particle collector 106. A slide groove is provided in the particle collecting device 106, and the filter plate 108 / filter net engages with the slide groove. When the washing machine controls the filter plate 108 / filter net to be inserted into the collection chamber 107, the filter plate 108 / filter net has a communication port between the collection chamber 107 and the outer tub 100, a collection chamber 107, and a blower 101. The cleaning particle 115 is blocked in the collection chamber 107 by dividing the communication port of the above. On the other hand, when the washing machine controls the filter plate 108 / filter net to be taken out from the collection chamber 107, the filter plate 108 / filter net has a communication port between the collection chamber 107 and the outer tub 100, a collection chamber 107, and a blower 101. By opening the communication port, the cleaning particles 115 can pass through the collection chamber 107 and circulate.

Further, the washing machine includes a window gasket 109 of the glass door 114 and / or a detergent case 110 and / or an input duct 111 communicating with the detergent case 110. The window gasket 109 is partially folded to form a folding path. The fold path and / or the detergent case 110 and / or the charging duct 111 all communicate with the storage chamber 103. The power unit drives the medium to enter the fold path and / or the detergent case 110 and / or the charging duct 111 with the cleaning particles 115 and automatically clean the appropriate parts.

By communicating the storage chamber 103 with the fold path of the window gasket 109 and / or the detergent case 110 and / or the charging duct 111, cleaning of a plurality of parts in the washing machine is realized, and the residue of filth and the growth of bacteria are realized. The area is reduced.

Specifically, the transport air passage 104 has a fold path and / or a branch path corresponding to the detergent case 110 and / or the input duct 111. The exhaust end of the branch path communicates with the corresponding folding path and / or the detergent case 110 and / or the charging duct 111. Further, the return air passage 105 has a fold path and / or a return air branch path corresponding to the detergent case 110 and / or the input duct 111. The intake end of the return air branch path communicates with the fold path and / or the detergent case 110 and / or the input duct 111, respectively. By forming multiple circulating air passages with the bifurcation and the corresponding return air bifurcation and cleaning the appropriate sites, filth residue and bacterial growth areas are reduced.

The washing machine may be a drum washing machine, a pulsator washing machine, a stirring type washing machine or a washing / drying integrated machine.

As shown in FIG. 2, this embodiment differs from the second embodiment in the following points. That is, in this embodiment, the particle collecting device 106 is not installed, but an opening control mechanism capable of opening / closing the storage chamber 103 is installed in the storage chamber 103. The opening control mechanism collects the cleaning particles 115 in the storage chamber 103 by shutting off the storage chamber 103. By installing an opening control mechanism in the particle storage device 102 and allowing the particle storage device 102 to have both a storage and collection function, not only cost saving but also operation becomes easy.

In the washing machine control method, when the washing machine controls to activate the power unit and the opening control mechanism opens the storage chamber 103, the power unit is accompanied by the cleaning particles 115 in the storage chamber 103 as the medium. Then, it enters the inside of the outer tank 100 and drives the tank wall to be automatically cleaned. Further, when the washing machine controls the opening control mechanism so as to shut off the storage chamber 103, the opening control mechanism blocks the cleaning particles 115 in the storage chamber 103.

As a further plan, the opening control mechanism is a filter plate 108 / filter net. To exemplify the case of the filter plate 108, the filter plate 108 is installed between the communication port between the storage chamber 103 and the outer tank 100 and the communication port between the storage chamber 103 and the blower device 101. The filter plate 108 is movably connected to the storage chamber 103. The filter plate 108 is switched between blocking / opening the two communication ports.

As a specific measure, the particle storage device 102 is provided with a slide groove, and the filter plate 108 is inserted into the storage chamber 103 by connecting the edge of the filter plate 108 so as to slide with respect to the slide groove. / Can be extracted. When the washing machine controls to insert the filter plate 108 into the storage chamber 103, the communication port between the storage chamber 103 and the outer tub 100 and the communication port between the storage chamber 103 and the blower 101 are separated, and the filter plate 108 is separated. The cleaning particles 115 are filtered and collected in the storage chamber 103. On the other hand, when the washing machine controls to pull out the filter plate 108, the communication port between the storage chamber 103 and the outer tub 100 and the communication port between the storage chamber 103 and the blower 101 are opened, and the air is accompanied by the cleaning particles 115. It becomes possible to enter the outer tank 100.

This example differs from Example 2 in the following points. That is, in this embodiment, the intake end of the blower 101 communicates with the outer tank 100, and the power device sucks the air in the outer tank 100 to generate an air flow to clean the inside of the storage chamber 103. The particles 115 are sucked into the outer tank 100. That is, the cleaning particles 115 in the storage chamber 103 are sucked into the outer tank 100 by negative pressure. The cleaning particles 115 move together with the air flow in the outer tank 100 to cause collision and friction with the tank wall of the outer tank 100, thereby realizing cleaning of the tank wall of the outer tank 100.

The blower 101 is a blower.

As a further measure, in the blower device 101, the intake end communicates with the outer tank 100, and the exhaust end communicates with the storage chamber 103. The power unit drives the medium to circulate between the outer tub 100 and the storage chamber 103 with the cleaning particles 115.

As a further measure, the storage chamber 103 and the outer tank 100 communicate with each other through the transport air passage 104. In the blower device 101, the intake end communicates with the outer tank 100, and the exhaust end communicates with the storage chamber 103 through the return air passage 105. Further, a circulation air passage is formed by the transport air passage 104 and the return air passage 105.

As a further alternative, the washing machine further includes a particle collector 106 with a collection chamber 107, an auxiliary path and a switching mechanism. A filter plate 108 is provided in the collection chamber 107. Further, the particle collecting device 106 is installed in the return air passage 105. The filter plate 108 is installed between the two communication ports of the collection chamber 107 and the return air passage to separate them. The auxiliary path is an air path, and both ends of the air path communicate with the return air passages 105 on both sides of the particle collecting device 106, respectively. The switching mechanism is installed at the connection point between the air passage and the return air air passage 105. The switching mechanism switches the opening between the circulation air passage / auxiliary path. The switching mechanism may be a switching valve. Further, two switching valves may be provided, and each of them may be installed at a connection point between the air passages on both sides of the particle collecting device 106 and the return air air passage 105.

In the control method of the washing machine, when the washing machine controls to start the power unit and controls the switching valve to open the auxiliary path, the circulating air passage is blocked and the circulating wind is cleaned particles through the auxiliary path. Achieve 115 cycles. On the other hand, when the washing machine controls the switching valve so as to shut off the auxiliary path, the circulation air passage is opened and the cleaning particles 115 enter the collection chamber of the particle collection device 106 together with the air flow, so that the filter plate 108 causes the cleaning particles 115. Is collected in the collection room 107.

As shown in FIG. 2, this embodiment relates to a specific drum washing machine. The drum washing machine includes a housing 123, an outer tub 100 installed in the housing 123, a detergent case 110, and an input duct 111 for communicating the detergent case 110 and the outer tub 100. The inner tank 120 is coaxially installed in the outer tank 100. Further, the inner tank 120 is provided with a lifting rib 112, and the outer tank 100 is provided with a heater 113. A water supply duct is installed in both the detergent case 110 and the outer tank 100, and a water supply valve 116 is provided in the water supply duct. At the rear of the washing machine, a drive device for rotationally driving the inner tub 120 is provided. The drive device includes a direct drive motor 117, and a transmission shaft 118 of the drive motor is connected to the inner tank 120 to rotate the inner tank 120. A bearing 119 is installed between the transmission shaft 118 and the outer tank 100. The washing machine further includes a glass door 114 and a window gasket 109 installed at the front of the housing 123. By engaging the glass door 114 and the window gasket 109, the connection point between the glass door 114 and the housing is sealed. The window gasket 109 is partially folded to form a folding path. The folding path, detergent case, and input duct all communicate with the outer tank. The washing machine also includes a drainage system. The drainage system includes a drainage pipe 122 that communicates with the outer tank 100. The drainage pipe 122 is provided with a drainage device 121 for controlling drainage. The drainage device 121 is a drainage valve or a drainage motor.

A particle storage device 102 and a blower are provided in the housing 123. The particle storage device 102 has a storage chamber 103, and the cleaning particles 115 are housed in the storage chamber 103. The exhaust end of the blower communicates with the storage chamber 103. Further, the storage chamber 103 communicates with the folding path, the space of the detergent case 110, and the outer tank 100, respectively, through the transport air passages 104 of a, b, c, and d4. The blower automatically enters the outer tank 100, the fold path, and the detergent case 110 with the cleaning particles 115 in the storage chamber as the air forms a high-pressure air flow, causing friction and collision with the appropriate parts. Drive to achieve cleaning. Further, the fold path, the space of the detergent case 110, and the return air passage 105 communicating with the outer tank 100 are all cleaned between the outer tank 100 and the storage chamber 103 by communicating with the intake end of the blower through the return air passage. Achieves circulation of particles 115.

There are two transport air passages 104 that communicate with the outer tank 100. Among them, the transport air passage d communicates with the bottom wall of the outer tank 100, and the transport air passage c communicates with the side wall of the outer tank 100.

A filter plate 108 is provided in the storage chamber 103. The filter plate 108 is slidably connected to the particle storage device 102. When the filter plate 108 is inserted into the storage chamber 103, the filter plate 108 separates the communication port between the blower and the storage chamber 103 and the communication port between the outer tank 100 and the storage chamber, and stores the cleaning particles 115. It is dammed in the chamber 103. Further, when the filter plate 108 is pulled out from the storage chamber 103, the storage chamber 103 is opened and the cleaning particles 115 circulate between the outer tank 100 and the storage chamber 103.

The particle size of the cleaning particles 115 is 0.05 to 12 mm. More preferably, the particle size of the cleaning particles 115 is 0.5 to 4.0 mm, and optimally, the particle size of the cleaning particles 115 is 1 to 2 mm.

The material of the cleaning particles 115 may be a metal, an inorganic non-metal, or an organic material. Optimal, the cleaning particles 115 are made of an organic polymer material such as polyurethane material, silicone, rubber, and nylon. Optimal, antibacterial components such as copper ions and anions are added to the cleaning particles 115.

The above cleaning process may be a cleaning program set in the washing machine. When the washing machine acquires that the user has selected the cleaning program, the washing machine controls the washing machine to execute the cleaning program.

Further, a certain number of washings / use time may be set in advance in the washing machine, and the cleaning program may be executed when the washing number / use time of the washing machine reaches a predetermined value. For example, the cleaning program is started when the number of washings reaches 20 times, or the cleaning program is started every 1 month / 3 months of using the washing machine.

Further, a detection device for detecting the amount of filth / mold may be provided in the washing machine, and the washing machine may be controlled to execute a cleaning program based on the detected amount of filth / mold. In this case, the cleaning program is executed when the amount of filth / mold detected by the detection device reaches a predetermined value.

As shown in FIG. 3, the washing machine communicates with the outer tub 100, the particle collecting device 106 having the collecting chamber 107 communicating with the outer tub 100, and the collecting chamber 107 / the outer tub 100, and the medium is inside the outer tub 100. Includes a power unit that drives automatic cleaning in the process of entering the collection chamber 107 with the cleaning particles 115.

Compared to the method of spraying water to perform automatic cleaning, when automatic cleaning is realized by causing collision and friction between the cleaning particles 115 and mold / mold, the cleaning power is increased and stubborn stains are removed. Since it can be removed, the cleaning effect is good.

The part to be automatically cleaned here is not limited to the inner wall of the outer tub, but also other structures such as a window gasket that forms a sealed cleaning space together with the outer tub and the glass door of the washing machine, and a detergent case that communicates with the outer tub. included. Therefore, if the part can be reached by the medium that enters the outer tank by driving the power unit, the purpose of cleaning the appropriate part by using the cleaning particles can be realized.

Illustratively explaining the case of automatically cleaning the tank wall of the outer tank, by installing the particle collecting device 106 and the power device, the power device has a medium of the collecting chamber 107 with the cleaning particles 115 in the outer tank 100. In the process of entering the tank, the tank wall of the outer tank 100 is driven to be automatically cleaned. As a result, the cleaning of the tank wall by the cleaning particles 115 is realized, and the cleaning particles 115 are also collected by the particle collecting device 106, so that the cleaning efficiency is improved.

As a control method, when the washing machine is controlled to activate the power unit, the power unit automatically cleans the tank wall of the outer tub 100 in the process of the medium entering the collection chamber 107 with the cleaning particles 115 in the outer tub 100. Drive to do.

The washing machine may be a drum washing machine, a pulsator washing machine, a stirring type washing machine or a washing / drying integrated machine.

As shown in FIG. 3, the sixth embodiment is further limited in this embodiment. The power unit is an intake device 124, and the intake end of the intake device 124 communicates with the collection chamber 107. The tank wall of the outer tank 100 is automatically cleaned in the process in which the air in the outer tank 100 enters the collection chamber 107 together with the cleaning particles 115 by the suction of the intake device 124.

The intake device 124 forms an air flow by sucking the air in the outer tank 100. The air flow moves with the cleaning particles 115 in the outer tub 100 and causes collision and friction with the inner wall of the outer tub 100 to realize cleaning of the inner wall of the outer tub 100. Further, the cleaning particles 115 are finally sucked into the collection chamber 107 by the suction force of the intake device 124, and the cleaning particles 115 can be collected.

In the washing machine control method, the washing machine is controlled to activate the intake device 124. Then, in the process of the air in the outer tank 100 entering the collection chamber 107 together with the cleaning particles 115 by the suction of the intake device 124, the tank wall of the outer tank 100 is automatically cleaned.

The intake device 124 is an intake fan.

As a further measure, the communication port communicating with the collection chamber 107 in the outer tank 100 is installed close to the highest point of the outer tank 100.

Generally, the cleaning particles 115 are deposited at the lowest point of the outer tank 100 by the action of gravity. Therefore, in order to extend the movement path of the cleaning particles 115 and increase the contact and collision area between the cleaning particles 115 and the inner wall of the outer tank 100 as much as possible, a communication port is usually provided at the highest point of the outer tank 100. As a result, the cleaning particles 115 enter the collection chamber 107 from the lowest point of the outer tank 100 through the communication port.

Further, the washing machine is a drum washing machine. The communication port communicating with the collection chamber 107 in the outer tank 100 is located above the horizontal plane in which the central axis of the outer tank 100 is located. Optimally, the central axis of the communication port and the vertical plane passing through the central axis of the outer tank 100 are coplanar. That is, the communication port communicating with the collection chamber in the outer tank is located at the highest point on the side wall of the outer tank.

As a further alternative, the washing machine further includes a particle charging path that connects the collection chamber 107 and the outer tub 100, and a control device that can open / block the particle charging path. The communication port between the particle charging path and the collection chamber 107 is higher than the communication port between the particle charging path and the outer tank 100. When the control device opens the particle input path, the cleaning particles 115 enter the outer tank 100 from the particle collecting device 106 by the action of gravity. Further, a transport duct for communicating the outer tank 100 and the collecting chamber 107 is provided between the outer tank 100 and the particle collecting device 106.

When the washing machine controls the control device to open the particle charging path, the cleaning particles 115 enter the outer tub 100 from the particle collecting device 106 by the action of gravity. Then, when the washing machine is controlled to activate the intake device 124, the air in the outer tub 100 enters the collection chamber 107 together with the cleaning particles 115 by the suction of the intake device 124, and the tub wall of the outer tub 100 is formed. Automatic cleaning is performed.

Further, the control method may include the following steps.

When the washing machine controls the control device so as to open the charging path, the cleaning particles 115 enter the outer tub 100 from the particle collecting device 106 by the action of gravity. Further, when the control device is controlled so that the washing machine cuts off the charging path and the intake device 124 is controlled to be activated, the air in the outer tub 100 is collected together with the cleaning particles 115 by the suction of the intake device 124. In the process of entering the chamber 107, the tank wall of the outer tank 100 is automatically cleaned.

As a further measure, the upper end of the particle input path communicates with the bottom wall of the particle collector 106. That is, it communicates with the bottom wall of the collection room. Further, the lower end communicates with the outer tank 100. The control device is a solenoid valve 125.

In the collection chamber 107, an opening control mechanism capable of opening / closing the collection chamber 107 is provided. The opening control mechanism collects the cleaning particles 115 in the collection chamber 107 by shutting off the collection chamber 107. By installing an opening control mechanism in the collection chamber 107 and collecting the cleaning particles 115, the cleaning particles 115 can be used repeatedly. In the control method of the washing machine, when the opening control mechanism is controlled so that the washing machine shuts off the collection chamber 107, the cleaning particles 115 enter the collection chamber 107 and are blocked, but the circulating gas passes through. As a result, the cleaning particles are collected in the collection chamber 107. Further, when the opening control mechanism is controlled so as to open the collection chamber 107, the cleaning particles 115 circulate together with the air flow.

The opening control mechanism is a filter plate or a filter net. The filter plate 108 divides the communication port between the intake fan and the collection chamber 107 and the communication port between the outer tank 100 and the collection chamber 107. The shape and type of the filter plate 108 and the filter net are not limited, and a grid-like, net-like, or filter hole type filter plate 108 can be used.

As a further alternative, it further includes a window gasket 109 of the glass door 114 and / or a detergent case 110 and / or an input duct 111 communicating with the detergent case 110. The window gasket 109 is partially folded to form a folding path. The folding path, the detergent case 110, and the charging duct 111 all communicate with the outer tank 100. Further, the fold path and / or the detergent case 110 and / or the charging duct 111 communicate with the collection chamber 107. The power unit drives the medium to automatically clean the appropriate parts as it enters the fold path and / or the detergent case 110 and / or the charging duct 111 with the cleaning particles 115 in the outer tub 100.

When the washing machine controls the control device to open the particle charging path, the cleaning particles 115 enter the outer tub 100 from the particle collecting device 106 by the action of gravity. After that, when the control device is controlled so as to block the particle input path and the intake device 124 is controlled to be activated, the cleaning particles 115 in the outer tank 100 communicate with the outer tank 100 in a curved path and / or a detergent case. It enters the 110 and / or the charging duct 111 and collides with the outer tank 100 and the folding path and / or the detergent case 110 and / or the charging duct 111. Finally, the cleaning particles 115 are collected by being sucked into the collection chamber 107.

This example differs from Example 7 in the following points. That is, the power device is a blower, and the exhaust end of the blower communicates with the outer tank 100. The blower drives the medium to automatically clean the tank wall of the outer tank 100 in the process of entering the collection chamber 107 with the cleaning particles 115 in the outer tank 100.

The particle collecting device 106 has an exhaust port for communicating the outside air with the collecting chamber 107.

When the air is driven to form an air flow by the blower, the air flow causes collision and friction with the tank wall of the outer tank 100 together with the cleaning particles 115, and realizes automatic cleaning of the outer tank 100. Finally, the cleaning particles 115 enter the collection chamber 107 together with the gas and are collected.

The blower is a blower fan.

As a further measure, the outer tank 100 is provided with an intake port communicating with the exhaust end of the blower device (blower fan) and an exhaust port communicating with the collection chamber 107. The intake port is installed close to the lowest point of the outer tub 100, and the exhaust port is installed close to the highest point of the outer tub 100.

Generally, the cleaning particles 115 are deposited at the lowest point of the outer tank 100. Therefore, by installing the intake port close to the position, the cleaning particles 115 are blown up as much as possible, and the outer tank 100 can be cleaned. Further, by installing the exhaust port close to the highest point of the outer tank 100, the cleaning area by the cleaning particles 115 can be increased as much as possible.

Optimally, the washing machine is a drum washing machine. The intake port is located below the horizontal plane where the central axis of the outer tank 100 is located, and the exhaust port is located above the horizontal plane where the central axis of the outer tank 100 is located.

More preferably, the exhaust port is close to the tank port of the outer tank 100, and the intake port is separated from the tank port of the outer tank 100. As a result, the cleaning particles can clean the entire outer tank.

Further, the intake port may be close to the tank port of the outer tank 100, and the exhaust port may be separated from the tank port of the outer tank 100.

As shown in FIG. 3, this embodiment relates to a specific drum washing machine. The drum washing machine includes a housing 123, an outer tub 100 installed in the housing 123, a detergent case 110, and an input duct 111 for communicating the detergent case 110 and the outer tub 100. The inner tank 120 is coaxially installed in the outer tank 100. Further, the inner tank 120 is provided with a lifting rib 112, and the outer tank 100 is provided with a heater 113. A water supply duct is installed in the detergent case 110 and the outer tank 100, and a water supply valve 116 is provided in the water supply duct. At the rear of the washing machine, a drive device for rotationally driving the inner tub 120 is provided. The drive device includes a direct drive motor 117, and a transmission shaft 118 of the drive motor is connected to the inner tank 120 to rotate the inner tank 120. A bearing 119 is installed between the transmission shaft 118 and the outer tank 100.

The washing machine further includes a glass door 114 and a window gasket 109 installed at the front of the housing 123. By engaging the glass door 114 and the window gasket 109, the connection point between the glass door 114 and the housing 123 is sealed. The window gasket 109 is partially folded to form a folding path. The folding path, the detergent case 110, and the charging duct 111 all communicate with the outer tank 100. The washing machine also includes a drainage system. The drainage system includes a drainage pipe 122 that communicates with the outer tank 100. The drainage pipe 122 is provided with a drainage device 121 for controlling drainage. The drainage device 121 is a drainage valve or a drainage motor.

A particle collecting device 106 and an intake fan are provided in the housing 123. The particle collecting device 106 has a collecting chamber 107, and the intake end of the intake fan communicates with the collecting chamber 107. Further, the folding path, the detergent case 110, the charging duct 111, and the outer tank 100 all communicate with the collection chamber 107 through the intake duct 126.

The washing machine further includes a particle charging path that connects the collection chamber 107 and the outer tub 100, and a solenoid valve that can open / shut off the particle charging path. The communication port between the particle charging path and the collection chamber 107 is higher than the communication port between the particle charging path and the outer tank 100. When the solenoid valve is activated to open the particle input path, the cleaning particles 115 enter the outer tank 100 from the particle collecting device 106 by the action of gravity.

A filter plate 108 is provided in the collection chamber 107. The filter plate 108 divides the communication port between the intake fan and the collection chamber 107 and the communication port between the outer tank 100 and the collection chamber 107. The pore diameter of the filter plate 108 is smaller than the diameter of the cleaning particles 115, and the cleaning particles 115 are collected in the outer tank 100 by realizing the blocking of the cleaning particles 115. The communication port between the particle input path and the collection chamber is installed between the filter plate and the communication port of the outer tank.

When the washing machine controls the solenoid valve to open the particle charging path, the cleaning particles 115 enter the outer tub 100 from the particle collecting device 106 by the action of gravity. Next, when the washing machine controls the solenoid valve to block the particle input path and controls the intake fan to start, the intake fan sucks the cleaning particles 115 in the outer tub 100, and some of the cleaning particles 115. However, it enters the curved path, the detergent case 110, and the input duct 111. The cleaning particles 115 collide with and rub against the fold path, the detergent case 110, the charging duct 111, and the tank wall of the outer tank 100, and finally enter the collection chamber 107 through the intake duct 126. Then, the cleaning particles 115 can be collected by being blocked by the filter plate 108.

When the intake fan is activated, the drain valve may open the drain pipe 122 as an intake duct, or the washing machine may be provided with an intake duct separately.

The particle size of the cleaning particles 115 is 0.05 to 12 mm. More preferably, the particle size of the cleaning particles 115 is 0.5 to 4.0 mm, and optimally, the particle size of the cleaning particles 115 is 1 to 2 mm.

The material of the cleaning particles 115 may be a metal, an inorganic non-metal, or an organic material. Optimal, the cleaning particles 115 are made of an organic polymer material such as polyurethane material, silicone, rubber, and nylon. Optimal, antibacterial components such as copper ions and anions are added to the cleaning particles 115.

The above cleaning process may be a cleaning program set in the washing machine. When the washing machine acquires that the user has selected the cleaning program, the washing machine controls the washing machine to execute the cleaning program.

Further, a certain number of washings / use time may be set in advance in the washing machine, and the cleaning program may be executed when the washing number / use time of the washing machine reaches a predetermined value. For example, the cleaning program is started when the number of washings reaches 20 times, or the cleaning program is started every 1 month / 3 months of using the washing machine.

Further, a detection device for detecting the amount of filth / mold may be provided in the washing machine, and the washing machine may be controlled to execute a cleaning program on the washing machine based on the detected amount of filth / mold. In this case, the cleaning program is executed when the amount of filth / mold detected by the detection device reaches a predetermined value.

As shown in FIG. 4, the washing machine communicates with the outer tub 100, the particle collecting device 106 having the collecting chamber 107 communicating with the outer tub 100, and the outer tub 100, and the medium enters the outer tub 100. The first power device, which is accompanied by the cleaning particles 115 in the outer tank 100 and is driven to perform automatic cleaning, communicates with the collection chamber 107, and the medium enters the collection chamber 107 with the cleaning particles 115 in the outer tank 100. And includes a second power unit, which drives to achieve the collection of cleaning particles 115.

The part to be automatically cleaned here is not limited to the inner wall of the outer tub, but also other structures such as a window gasket that forms a sealed cleaning space together with the outer tub and the glass door of the washing machine, and a detergent case that communicates with the outer tub. included. Therefore, if the part can be reached by the medium that enters the outer tank by driving the power unit, the purpose of cleaning the appropriate part by using the cleaning particles can be realized.

To explain by exemplifying the case of automatically cleaning the tank wall of the outer tank, by installing the particle collecting device 106 and the second power device together, the cleaning particles 115 are collected by the second power device in the collection room of the particle collecting device 106. Collected in 107, storage of cleaning particles 115 is realized. Further, the first power unit drives the medium to move in the outer tank 100 together with the cleaning particles 115, so that the cleaning particles 115 and the tank wall of the outer tank 100 collide with each other and cause friction. Dirt and mold are removed, and automatic cleaning of the tank wall is realized.

In the control method of the washing machine, when the washing machine is controlled to activate the first power unit, the first power unit is accompanied by cleaning particles 115 in the outer tub 100 when the medium enters the outer tub 100. Drive to automatically clean the walls. Further, when the washing machine is controlled to activate the second power unit, the second power unit drives the medium to enter the collection chamber 107 with the cleaning particles 115 and realize the collection of the cleaning particles 115.

The washing machine may be a drum washing machine, a pulsator washing machine, a stirring type washing machine or a washing / drying integrated machine.

As shown in FIG. 4, the tenth embodiment is further limited in this embodiment. In this embodiment, the first power unit is a blower 101, and the exhaust end of the blower 101 communicates with the outer tank 100. Further, the second power device is an intake device 124, and the intake end of the intake device 124 communicates with the collection chamber 107.

Automatic cleaning of the outer tub 100 is realized by blowing air into the outer tub 100 by the blower 101 and blowing it onto the cleaning particles 115 to cause friction and collision with the outer tub 100. Further, the intake device 124 realizes the collection of the cleaning particles 115 by sucking the cleaning particles 115 in the outer tank 100 into the collection chamber 107.

In the control method of the washing machine, when the washing machine is controlled to activate the blower 101, the blower 101 enters the outer tub 100 and is accompanied by the cleaning particles 115 in the outer tub 100 to press the tub wall. Drive to automatic cleaning. Further, when the washing machine is controlled to activate the intake device 124, the intake device 124 drives the medium to enter the collection chamber 107 with the cleaning particles 115 and realize the collection of the cleaning particles 115.

Optimally, the blower 101 is a blower fan and the intake device 124 is an intake fan.

As a further measure, a shutoff mechanism capable of shutting off the collection chamber 107 is provided in the collection chamber 107. The blocking mechanism collects the cleaning particles 115 in the collecting chamber 107 by blocking the collecting chamber 107.

Specifically, the blocking mechanism is a filter plate 108. The filter plate 108 is installed between the communication port between the intake device 124 and the collection chamber 107 and the communication port between the outer tank 100 and the collection chamber 107, and is connected to the collection chamber 107 to form two communication ports. Divide.

The pore diameter of the filter plate 108 is smaller than the diameter of the cleaning particles 115. The cleaning particles 115 are blocked in the collection chamber 107 by the filter plate 108.

Further, the cutoff structure may be a filter net.

As a further alternative, the washing machine further includes a particle storage device 102. The particle storage device 102 has a storage chamber 103 that communicates with the outer tank 100, and the cleaning particles 115 are housed in the storage chamber 103. The exhaust end of the blower 101 communicates with the storage chamber 103. The blower 101 is driven so that the medium enters the inside of the outer tank 100 together with the cleaning particles 115 in the storage chamber 103 and automatically cleans the tank wall.

The blower 101 sends the cleaning particles 115 in the storage chamber 103 into the outer tank 100. Further, in the outer tub 100, the cleaning particles 115 move together with the air flow sent by the blower 101 to cause collision and friction with the inner wall of the outer tub 100, thereby realizing automatic cleaning of the inner wall of the outer tub 100.

As a further measure, a communication path (not shown) for communicating the storage chamber 103 of the particle storage device 102 and the collection chamber 107 of the particle collection device 106, and a first control device for opening / blocking the communication path are further included. .. The communication port between the communication route and the collection chamber 107 is higher than the communication port that communicates the communication route and the storage chamber 103. When the first control device opens the communication path, the cleaning particles 115 enter the particle storage device 102 from the particle collecting device 106 by the action of gravity.

The communication port between the communication path and the collection chamber of the particle collection device is located on the bottom wall of the particle collection device and discharges all the cleaning particles. The first control device is a solenoid valve 125.

After the collection is completed, when the washing machine controls the first control device to open the communication path, the cleaning particles 115 enter the particle storage device 102 from the particle collection device 106 by the action of gravity.

Further, a sensor for detecting the amount of dirt / mold in the outer tub 100 is provided in the washing machine. The method of controlling the washing machine includes the following steps.

The washing machine detects the amount of filth / mold in the outer tub 100 and determines whether or not the amount of filth / mold is larger than a predetermined value. If it is large, a cleaning program is executed to control the blower device 101 to be activated. The blower 101 is driven so that the medium enters the inside of the outer tank 100 together with the cleaning particles 115 in the storage chamber 103 and automatically cleans the tank wall. Then, when the cleaning is completed, the intake device 124 is controlled to be activated. The intake device 124 drives the medium to enter the collection chamber 107 together with the cleaning particles 115 in the outer tank 100, and the cleaning particles 115 are blocked by the filter plate 108 and collected in the collection chamber 107. Then, when the first control device is controlled so as to open the communication path after the completion of collection or before the next cleaning, the cleaning particles 115 enter the particle storage device 102 from the particle collection device 106 by the action of gravity. ..

The washing machine may control the activation of the cleaning program based on the number of washings / usage time.

As a further measure, the communication port communicating with the first power unit in the outer tank is installed close to the lowest point of the outer tank. The cleaning particles are deposited at the lowest point of the outer tank by the action of gravity. Therefore, the communication port communicating with the first power device in the outer tub is installed at the position, and the cleaning particles are blown up to the maximum to contribute to the cleaning of the outer tub, thereby improving the cleaning effect.

The washing machine is a drum washing machine. The tub opening of the outer tub 100 of the drum washing machine faces one side of the washing machine. Further, the exhaust end of the blower 101 communicates with the lowest point on the side wall of the outer tank 100.

Alternatively, the washing machine is a pulsator washing machine. The tub mouth of the outer tub 100 of the pulsator washing machine faces upward. Further, the exhaust end of the blower 101 communicates with the bottom wall of the outer tank 100. Generally, the cleaning particles 115 are concentrated on the bottom wall portion of the pulsator washing machine or the lowest portion of the side wall of the outer tub 100 in the drum washing machine. Therefore, efficient cleaning can be achieved by installing a communication port between the exhaust end of the blower 101 and the outer tank 100 at the relevant portion and contributing all the cleaning particles to cleaning as much as possible.

As a further alternative, the washing machine further includes a window gasket 109 of the glass door 114 and / or a detergent case 110 and / or an input duct 111 communicating with the detergent case 110. The window gasket 109 is partially folded to form a folding path. The fold path of the glass door 114 and / or the detergent case 110 and / or the input duct 111 communicate with the collection chamber 107. The intake device 124 drives the folding path of the glass door 114 and / or the cleaning particles 115 in the detergent case 110 and / or the charging duct 111 to enter the collection chamber 107 and realize the collection of the cleaning particles 115.

Further, the folding path of the glass door 114 and / or the detergent case 110 and / or the charging duct 111 communicate with the storage chamber 103. The blower 101 drives the air to enter the fold path and / or the detergent case 110 and / or the charging duct 111 of the glass door 114 with the cleaning particles 115 in the storage chamber 103 to clean the appropriate parts.

As shown in FIG. 5, this embodiment differs from the eleventh embodiment in the following points. That is, in this embodiment, the particle storage device 102 is not installed, and the particle collection device 106 has both a collection function and a storage function.

The washing machine includes a particle charging path (not shown) for communicating the collection chamber 107 and the outer tub 100, and a second control device capable of opening / blocking the particle charging path. The communication port between the particle charging path and the collection chamber 107 is higher than the communication port between the particle charging path and the outer tank 100. When the second control device opens the particle input path, the cleaning particles 115 enter the outer tank 100 from the particle collecting device 106 by the action of gravity.

The second control device is a solenoid valve 125.

The control method includes the following steps.

When the washing machine acquires that the user has selected the cleaning program, the washing machine controls the second control device so as to open the particle charging path. As a result, the cleaning particles 115 enter the outer tank 100 from the particle collecting device 106 by the action of gravity.

Next, when the blower device 101 is controlled to be activated, the blower device 101 is driven so that the medium enters the inside of the outer tank 100 together with the cleaning particles 115 in the storage chamber 103 and automatically cleans the tank wall. Then, when the cleaning is completed, the intake device 124 is controlled to be activated. The intake device 124 drives the medium to enter the collection chamber 107 together with the cleaning particles 115 in the outer tank 100, and the cleaning particles 115 are blocked by the filter plate 108 and collected in the collection chamber 107.

As shown in FIG. 4, this embodiment relates to a specific drum washing machine. The drum washing machine includes a housing 123, an outer tub 100 installed in the housing 123, a detergent case 110, and an input duct 111 for communicating the detergent case 110 and the outer tub 100. The inner tank 120 is coaxially installed in the outer tank 100. Further, the inner tank 120 is provided with a lifting rib 112, and the outer tank 100 is provided with a heater 113. A water supply duct is installed in the detergent case 110 and the outer tank 100, and a water supply valve 116 is provided in the water supply duct. At the rear of the washing machine, a drive device for rotationally driving the inner tub 120 is provided. The drive device includes a direct drive motor 117, and a transmission shaft 118 of the drive motor is connected to the inner tank 120 to rotate the inner tank 120. A bearing 119 is installed between the transmission shaft 118 and the outer tank 100.

The washing machine further includes a glass door 114 and a window gasket 109 installed at the front of the housing 123. By engaging the glass door 114 and the window gasket 109, the connection point between the glass door 114 and the housing 123 is sealed. The window gasket 109 is partially folded to form a folding path. The folding path, detergent case, and input duct all communicate with the outer tank. The washing machine also includes a drainage system. The drainage system includes a drainage pipe 122 that communicates with the outer tank 100. The drainage pipe 122 is provided with a drainage device 121 for controlling drainage. The drainage device 121 is a drainage valve or a drainage motor.

A particle storage device 102, a particle collection device 106, an intake fan, and a blower fan are provided in the housing 123. The particle storage device 102 has a storage chamber 103, and the cleaning particles 115 are housed in the storage chamber 103. The exhaust end of the blower fan communicates with the storage chamber 103. Further, the storage chamber 103 communicates with the folding path, the space of the detergent case 110, and the outer tank 100, respectively, through the transport air passages 104 of a, b, c, and d4. In the blower fan, the air forms a high-pressure airflow and enters the outer tank 100, the fold path, and the detergent case 110 together with the cleaning particles 115 in the drive storage chamber 103, respectively, causing friction and collision with appropriate parts. It drives to realize automatic cleaning.

There are two transport air passages 104 that communicate with the outer tank 100. Among them, the transport air passage 104d communicates with the bottom wall of the outer tank 100, and the transport air passage 104c communicates with the side wall of the outer tank 100.

The particle collecting device 106 has a collecting chamber 107 that communicates with the space of the outer tank 100, the folding path, and the detergent case 110. Further, the intake end of the intake fan communicates with the collection chamber 107. A filter plate 108 is provided in the collection chamber 107. The filter plate 108 separates the communication port between the collection chamber 107 and the intake fan and the communication port between the collection chamber 107 and the outer tank 100. When the washing machine is controlled to activate the intake fan, the cleaning particles 115 in the space of the outer tub 100, the folding path and the detergent case 110 are sucked into the collection chamber 107 and blocked by the filter plate to prevent the cleaning particles 115. Collection is realized.

A communication path is provided between the collection chamber 107 of the particle collection device 106 and the storage chamber 103 of the particle storage device 102. The communication port between the communication route and the collection chamber 107 is higher than the communication port between the communication route and the storage chamber 103. A solenoid valve 125 is provided in the communication path. When the washing machine controls the solenoid valve 125 to open the communication path, the cleaning particles 115 enter the particle storage device 102 from the particle collecting device 106 by the action of gravity, so that the cleaning particles 115 can be recycled. ..

Further, a particle charging path for communicating these may be provided between the collection chamber 107 and the outer tank 100, and a solenoid valve 125 may be provided in the particle charging path. When the washing machine controls the solenoid valve 125 to open the particle input path, the cleaning particles 115 enter the outer tub 100 from the particle collecting device 106 by the action of gravity, so that the cleaning particles 115 can be used repeatedly. ..

The particle size of the cleaning particles 115 is 0.05 to 12 mm. More preferably, the particle size of the cleaning particles 115 is 0.5 to 4.0 mm, and optimally, the particle size of the cleaning particles 115 is 1 to 2 mm.

The material of the cleaning particles 115 may be a metal, an inorganic non-metal, or an organic material. Optimal, the cleaning particles 115 are made of an organic polymer material such as polyurethane material, silicone, rubber, and nylon. Optimal, antibacterial components such as copper ions and anions are added to the cleaning particles 115.

The above cleaning process may be a cleaning program set in the washing machine. When the washing machine acquires that the user has selected the cleaning program, the washing machine controls the washing machine to execute the cleaning program.

Further, a certain number of washings / use time may be set in advance in the washing machine, and the cleaning program may be executed when the washing number / use time of the washing machine reaches a predetermined value. For example, the cleaning program is started when the number of washings reaches 20 times, or the cleaning program is started every 1 month / 3 months of using the washing machine.

Further, a detection device for detecting the amount of filth / mold may be provided in the washing machine, and the washing machine may be controlled to execute a cleaning program on the washing machine based on the detected amount of filth / mold. In this case, the cleaning program is executed when the amount of filth / mold detected by the detection device reaches a predetermined value.

The shape and type of the filter plate 108 and the filter net are not limited, and a grid-like, net-like, or filter hole type filter plate 108 can be used.

A washing machine, an outer tub 100, a particle storage device 102 having a storage chamber 103 communicating with the outer tub 100 and accommodating cleaning particles 115 in the storage chamber 103, and a liquid supply end extending into a liquid medium. The liquid transport device 201, in which the discharge end communicates with the storage chamber 103, and the liquid medium enters the inside of the outer tank 100 together with the cleaning particles 115 to perform automatic cleaning, is included.

The part to be automatically cleaned here is not limited to the inner wall of the outer tub, but also other structures such as a window gasket that forms a sealed cleaning space together with the outer tub and the glass door of the washing machine, and a detergent case that communicates with the outer tub. included. Therefore, if the part can be reached by the medium that enters the outer tank by driving the power unit, the purpose of cleaning the appropriate part by using the cleaning particles can be realized.

To explain by exemplifying the case of automatically cleaning the tank wall of the outer tank, the cleaning particles 115 are added to the liquid medium, and the collision and friction between the cleaning particles 115 and the outer tank 100 are used to use the tank wall of the outer tank 100. Achieve cleaning of the above filth / mold. In this case, since the cleaning power is increased, the effect of removing stubborn stains is remarkable, and the removal efficiency is also excellent.

When the liquid transport device 201 is used and the liquid medium is driven to clean the outer tub with the cleaning particles 115, the filth easily enters the liquid medium after the cleaning particles 115 remove the filth on the outer tub 100. The removal effect is further improved because it dissolves in the liquid or is easily discharged together with the liquid medium.

The double cleaning using the liquid medium and the cleaning particles 115 significantly shortens the cleaning time and further improves the cleaning effect.

In the above control method, when the washing machine is controlled to activate the liquid transfer device 201, the liquid transfer device 201 enters the inside of the outer tub 100 together with the cleaning particles 115, and the tub wall of the outer tub 100 is entered. Drive to automatically clean.

The washing machine may be a drum washing machine, a pulsator washing machine, a stirring type washing machine or a washing / drying integrated machine.

In this embodiment, Example 14 is further limited. The liquid supply end of the liquid transfer device 201 communicates with the outer tank 100. The liquid transfer device 201 is driven so that the liquid medium in the outer tank 100 returns to the inside of the outer tank 100 together with the cleaning particles 115 in the storage chamber 103, and the tank wall of the outer tank 100 is automatically cleaned.

The liquid supply end of the liquid transfer device 201 communicates with the outer tank 100, and the liquid discharge end communicates with the storage chamber 103. Further, the storage chamber 103 communicates with the outer tank 100. As a result, the cleaning particles 115 circulate between the storage chamber 103 and the outer tank 100, so that the consumption of the cleaning particles 115 is reduced and water resources are also saved.

In the control method of the washing machine, when the washing machine is controlled to activate the liquid transfer device 201, in the liquid transfer device 201, the liquid medium in the outer tub 100 is accompanied by the cleaning particles 115 in the storage chamber 103. It returns to the inside of the outer tank 100 and drives the tank wall of the outer tank 100 to be automatically cleaned.

The liquid transfer device 201 is a water pump. In the water pump, the liquid supply end communicates with the outer tank 100 through the return water duct 205, and the liquid discharge end communicates with the storage chamber 103. Further, the storage chamber 103 communicates with the outer tank 100 through the transport water channel 204. The transport channel 204 and the ring water duct 205 form a circulating channel for circulating the cleaning particles.

As a further measure, the outer tank 100 is provided with a first communication port that communicates with the liquid supply end of the liquid transfer device 201. The first communication port is installed close to the lowest point of the outer tank 100. Since the liquid medium containing the cleaning particles tends to collect at the site, it is more advantageous for circulation.

The outer tub 100 of the washing machine has a drain port for discharging the washing water in the outer tub, and the outer tub 100 and the liquid supply end of the liquid transport device 201 communicate with each other through the drain port. By communicating the outer tank 100 with the liquid supply end of the liquid transport device 201 by using the drain port of the outer tank 100, the opening on the outer tank 100 is reduced, so that the strength of the outer tank 100 is further improved.

As a further measure, a drain pipe 122 is connected to the drain port, and the liquid supply end of the liquid transport device 201 communicates with the drain pipe 122. By communicating the outer tank 100 and the liquid transfer device 201 by using the drain pipe 122, the replacement becomes easy.

The drainage pipe 122 is provided with a drainage device 121 for opening / closing the drainage pipe. The communication port between the liquid supply end of the liquid transport device 201 and the drain pipe 122 is located in front of the drain port and the drain device 121.

The drainage device 121 is a drainage valve or a drainage pump.

As a further measure, the particle storage device 102 is provided with a liquid supply port for communicating the storage chamber and the liquid discharge end of the liquid transfer device 201, and a liquid discharge port for communicating the storage chamber and the outer tank 100. The spout is higher than the spout. By allowing the liquid to enter from the lower end and being discharged from the upper end, air bubbles are less likely to remain in the liquid medium, and the water pressure formed becomes larger, so that the cleaning effect is further improved.

The liquid supply port is installed on the bottom wall of the particle storage device 102.

Further, in the storage chamber 103, an opening blocking mechanism capable of opening / blocking the liquid supply port and the liquid discharge port is provided. When the opening shutoff mechanism opens the liquid supply port and the liquid discharge port, the liquid transport device 201 returns the liquid medium in the outer tank 100 to the inside of the outer tank 100 together with the cleaning particles 115 in the storage chamber 103, and outside. It is driven to automatically clean the tank wall of the tank 100. On the other hand, when the opening blocking mechanism shuts off the liquid supply port and the discharging port, the cleaning particles 115 are collected in the storage chamber 103 by the opening blocking mechanism.

Optimally, the opening blocking mechanism is a filter plate 108 or a filter net. The filter plate 108 is slidably connected to the particle storage device 102. The pore size of the filter plate 108 or the filter net is smaller than the particle size of the cleaning particles 115.

In the control method of the washing machine, when the washing machine controls the opening shutoff mechanism so as to open the liquid supply port and the liquid discharge port and controls to activate the liquid transfer device 201, the liquid transfer device 201 is controlled by the outer tub 100. The liquid medium inside returns to the inside of the outer tank 100 together with the cleaning particles 115 in the storage chamber 103, and drives the tank wall of the outer tank 100 to be automatically cleaned. Further, when the washing machine controls the opening blocking mechanism so as to block the liquid supply port and the discharging port, the cleaning particles 115 are collected in the storage chamber 103 by the opening blocking mechanism.

As a further alternative, it further includes a window gasket 109 of the door 114 and / or a detergent case 110 and / or an input duct 111 communicating with the detergent case 110. The window gasket 109 is partially folded to form a folding path. The fold path and / or the detergent case 110 and / or the charging duct 111 all communicate with the storage chamber 103. The liquid transfer device 201 is driven so that the liquid medium enters the fold path and / or the detergent case 110 and / or the charging duct 111 with the cleaning particles 115 and automatically cleans the appropriate portion.

The liquid medium with the cleaning particles 115 is conveyed into the fold path and / or the detergent case 110 and / or the charging duct 111 to clean multiple parts of the washing machine. This improves the user experience by reducing the residual filth as much as possible and reducing the growth of mold.

Optimally, the transport channel 204 further includes a fold path and / or a transport branch path corresponding to the detergent case 110 and / or the input duct 111. The discharge end of the transport branch path communicates with the corresponding fold path and / or the detergent case 110 and / or the charging duct 111.

The fold path communicates with the outer tank 100 through the second communication port. Further, the second communication port for communicating the fold path and the outer tank 100 is located at the bottom of the fold path.

This embodiment relates to a concrete plan. As shown in FIG. 6, the drum washing machine includes a housing 123, an outer tub 100 installed in the housing 123, a detergent case 110, and an input duct 111 for communicating the detergent case 110 and the outer tub 100. The inner tank 120 is coaxially installed in the outer tank 100. Further, the inner tank 120 is provided with a lifting rib 112, and the outer tank 100 is provided with a heater 113. A water supply duct is installed in both the detergent case 110 and the outer tank 100, and a water supply valve 116 is provided in the water supply duct. At the rear of the washing machine, a drive device for rotationally driving the inner tub 120 is provided. The drive device includes a direct drive motor 117, and a transmission shaft 118 of the drive motor is connected to the inner tank 120 to rotate the inner tank 120. A bearing 119 is installed between the transmission shaft 118 and the outer tank 100. The washing machine further includes a door 114 and a window gasket 109 installed at the front of the housing 123. By engaging the door 114 and the window gasket 109, the connection point between the door 114 and the housing 123 is sealed. The window gasket 109 is partially folded to form a folding path. A second communication port that communicates with the outer tank 100 is provided at the lower part of the folding path. Further, a drainage port is provided at the lower part of the outer tank 100, and the drainage pipe 122 is connected to the drainage port. The drainage pipe 122 is provided with a drainage valve for opening / shutting off the drainage pipe 122.

A particle storage device 102 and a water pump are provided in the housing 123. The particle storage device 102 has a storage chamber 103, and the cleaning particles 115 are housed in the storage chamber 103. The spout end of the water pump communicates with the storage chamber 103. Further, the storage chamber 103 communicates with the fold path, the space of the detergent case 110, and the outer tank 100, respectively, through the transport channels 204 of a, b, c, and d4. The water inlet end of the water pump communicates with the drain pipe 122 portion between the drain port and the drain pump through the water ring duct 205. The particle storage device 102 is provided with a water inlet and a water discharge port for communicating the inside and outside of the storage chamber 103. The water inlet is connected to the water discharge end of the water pump, and the water discharge port communicates with the outer tank through the transport water channel 204. Also, the spout is higher than the inlet.

A filter net that separates the water inlet and the water outlet is provided in the storage chamber 103. For example, the filter net is slidably connected to the particle storage device 102. A slide groove is provided in the particle collecting device 106, and the filter plate 108 / filter net engages with the slide groove. When the filter net is inserted into the collection chamber, the water inlet and the spout are separated by the filter net, and the cleaning particles 115 are blocked in the storage chamber 103, so that the cleaning particles 115 can be collected. Further, when the filter net is pulled out from the collection chamber, the water inlet and the spout port communicate with each other, and the cleaning particles 115 enter the outer tank 100 together with the water flow to realize cleaning of the tank wall.

The shape and type of the filter plate 108 and the filter net are not limited, and a grid-like, net-like, or filter hole type filter plate 108 can be used.

The particle size of the cleaning particles 115 is 0.05 to 12 mm. More preferably, the particle size of the cleaning particles 115 is 0.5 to 4.0 mm, and optimally, the particle size of the cleaning particles 115 is 1 to 2 mm.

The material of the cleaning particles 115 may be a metal, an inorganic non-metal, or an organic material. Optimal, the cleaning particles 115 are made of an organic polymer material such as polyurethane material, silicone, rubber, and nylon. Optimal, antibacterial components such as copper ions and anions are added to the cleaning particles 115.

The method of controlling the washing machine includes the following steps.

When the washing machine controls the opening shutoff mechanism to open the liquid supply port and the liquid discharge port, controls the drainage device 121 to stop the drainage, and controls to start the liquid transfer device 201, the liquid transfer device The 201 is driven so that the liquid medium in the outer tank 100 returns to the inside of the outer tank 100 together with the cleaning particles 115 in the storage chamber 103, and the tank wall of the outer tank 100 is automatically cleaned.

When the washing machine controls the opening blocking mechanism to block the liquid supply port and the discharging port, the cleaning particles 115 are collected in the storage chamber 103 by the opening blocking mechanism.

When the washing machine controls to stop the liquid transport device 201 and controls to start the drainage device 121, the liquid medium in the outer tub 100 is discharged.

The above cleaning process may be a cleaning program set in the washing machine. When the washing machine acquires that the user has selected the cleaning program, the washing machine controls the washing machine to execute the cleaning program.

Further, a certain number of washings / use time may be set in advance in the washing machine, and the cleaning program may be executed when the washing number / use time of the washing machine reaches a predetermined value. For example, the cleaning program is started when the number of washings reaches 20 times, or the cleaning program is started every 1 month / 3 months of using the washing machine.

Further, a detection device for detecting the amount of filth / mold may be provided in the washing machine, and the washing machine may be controlled to execute a cleaning program on the washing machine based on the detected amount of filth / mold. In this case, the cleaning program is executed when the amount of filth / mold detected by the detection device reaches a predetermined value.

The above is merely a preferred embodiment of the present invention and does not limit the present invention to any form. Although the present invention has been disclosed as described above by preferred embodiments, it is not intended to limit the present invention. To the extent that the technical plan of the present invention is not deviated, slight modifications or supplements that can be carried out by those skilled in the art using the technical contents presented above are regarded as equivalently modified and equivalent examples, and all of them are considered to be the present invention. It does not deviate from the contents of the technical plan of. Also, any minor modifications, equivalent modifications and supplements made to the above embodiments based on the technical nature of the invention are all within the scope of the invention.

Claims (40)

With the outer tank
A particle storage device that has a storage chamber that communicates with the outer tank and stores cleaning particles in the storage chamber.
A washing machine comprising a power unit, which communicates with an outer tub / storage chamber and drives a medium to enter the inside of the outer tub with cleaning particles to perform automatic cleaning. The power unit is a blower, the exhaust end of the blower communicates with the storage chamber, and the power unit is driven so that air enters the storage chamber and enters the inside of the outer tank with cleaning particles. death,
Alternatively, the intake end of the blower device communicates with the outer tank, and the power device sucks the air in the outer tank to generate an air flow, and the cleaning particles in the storage chamber are sucked into the outer tank. The washing machine according to claim 1. In the blower, the exhaust end communicates with the storage chamber and the intake end communicates with the outer tank.
Alternatively, in the blower, the intake end communicates with the outer tub and the exhaust end communicates with the storage chamber, and the power unit circulates the medium between the outer tub and the storage chamber with cleaning particles. Drive and
Preferably, the storage chamber and the outer tank communicate with each other through a transport air passage, and the blower has an exhaust end communicating with the storage chamber and an intake end communicating with the outer tank through a return air passage.
Alternatively, in the blower, the intake end communicates with the outer tank, the exhaust end communicates with the storage chamber through the return air passage, and the circulation air passage is formed by the transport air passage and the return air passage. The washing machine according to claim 2. Further, it includes a particle collecting device installed in the transport air passage and / or the return air passage, the particle collection device has a collection chamber, and the collection chamber communicates with the transport air passage and / or the return air passage. Used for collecting cleaning particles,
Preferably, the blower has an exhaust end communicating with a storage chamber and an intake end communicating with an outer tank through a return air passage, the particle collecting device being installed in the return air passage, and the collecting chamber. The washing machine according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the washing machine communicates with a return air passage. The collection chamber is provided with an opening control mechanism capable of opening / closing the collection chamber, and the opening control mechanism collects cleaning particles in the collection chamber by blocking the collection chamber.
Alternatively, the circulation air passage is provided with an auxiliary path and a switching mechanism, both ends of the auxiliary path communicate with the circulation air passages on both sides of the particle collecting device, and the switching mechanism is an auxiliary path and a circulation air passage. It is installed at the connection point of, and the switching mechanism switches the opening between the circulation air passage / auxiliary path.
Preferably, the opening control mechanism is a filter plate / filter net, the filter plate / filter net is installed between the collection chamber and two communication ports communicating the return air passage, and the filter plate / filter net collects. Movably connected to the chamber, the filter plate / filter net can be switched between blocking / opening two communication ports that communicate the collection chamber and the return air passage.
More preferably, the washing machine according to claim 4, wherein the filter plate / filter net is slidably connected to the particle collecting device. The storage chamber is provided with an opening control mechanism capable of opening / closing the storage chamber, and the opening control mechanism collects cleaning particles in the storage chamber by blocking the storage chamber.
Preferably, the opening control mechanism is a filter plate / filter net, and the filter plate / filter net is installed between the communication port between the storage chamber and the outer tank and the communication port between the storage chamber and the blower. The filter plate / filter net is movably connected to the storage chamber, and the filter plate / filter net is switched between blocking / opening of the two communication ports.
Preferably, the filter plate / filter net is slidably connected to the storage chamber and
More preferably, the washing machine according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the washing machine is a drum washing machine, a pulsator washing machine, or a washing / drying integrated machine. The washing machine further includes a window gasket for the glass door and / or a detergent case and / or an input duct that communicates with the detergent case, the window gasket being partially folded to form a curved path. The curved path and / or the detergent case and / or the charging duct are all communicated with the storage chamber, and the power unit is provided with the medium in the curved path and / or the detergent case and / or the charging duct with cleaning particles. Drive to enter and automatically clean the appropriate area,
Preferably, the transport air passage has a fold path and / or a branch path corresponding to a detergent case and / or an input duct, and the exhaust end of the branch path has a corresponding fold path and / or. It communicates with the detergent case and / or the input duct,
More preferably, the return air passage has a fold path and / or a return air branch path corresponding to a detergent case and / or an inlet duct, and the intake end of the return air branch path is a fold path and / or. The washing machine according to any one of claims 2 to 6, wherein the washing machine communicates with the detergent case and / or the input duct, respectively. It is a control method of the washing machine, and the washing machine is
With the outer tank
A particle storage device that has a storage chamber that communicates with the outer tank and stores cleaning particles in the storage chamber.
Including a power unit that communicates with the outer tank / storage room,
The control method is characterized in that when the washing machine is controlled to activate the power unit, the power unit enters the inside of the outer tub with cleaning particles and is driven to perform automatic cleaning. .. The exhaust end of the blower is in communication with the storage chamber, the storage chamber and the outer tank are in communication with each other through a transport air passage, and the intake end of the blower and the outer tank are in communication with each other through a return air passage. The washing machine further includes a particle collecting device installed in a transport air passage and / or a return air passage, and the particle collecting device has a collection chamber, and the collection chamber can be opened / closed. A control mechanism is provided,
In the control method, when the washing machine is controlled to activate the power unit and the opening control mechanism is controlled to open the collection chamber, the power unit causes the medium to enter the inside of the outer tub with the cleaning particles. The control method according to claim 8, wherein cleaning particles are collected in the storage chamber when the opening control mechanism is controlled so that the automatic cleaning is performed and the washing machine shuts off the collection chamber. The storage chamber is provided with an opening control mechanism capable of opening / closing the storage chamber.
In the control method, when the washing machine controls the power unit to be activated and the opening control mechanism opens the storage chamber, the power unit enters the inside of the outer tub with the cleaning particles in the storage room. The control method according to claim 8, wherein when the opening control mechanism is controlled so that the washing machine shuts off the storage chamber, the opening control mechanism blocks the cleaning particles in the storage chamber. .. With the outer tank
A particle collector with a collection chamber that communicates with the outer tank,
A washing machine comprising a power device that communicates with the collection chamber / outer tub and drives the medium to perform automatic cleaning in the process of entering the collection chamber with cleaning particles in the outer tub. The power device is an intake device, and the intake end of the intake device communicates with the collection chamber, and the process in which the air in the outer tank enters the collection chamber together with the cleaning particles in the outer tank by the suction of the intake device. Automatic cleaning is done at
The washing machine according to claim 11, wherein the intake device is preferably an intake fan. The communication port communicating with the collection chamber in the outer tank is installed close to the highest point of the outer tank.
Preferably, the washing machine is a drum washing machine, and the communication port communicating with the collection chamber in the outer tub is located above the horizontal plane in which the central axis of the outer tub is located.
More preferably, the washing machine according to claim 11 or 12, wherein the communication port communicating with the collection chamber in the outer tub is located at the highest point on the side wall of the outer tub. The power unit is a blower, the exhaust end of the blower communicates with the outer tank, and the blower automatically cleans the medium in the process of entering the collection chamber with the cleaning particles in the outer tank. Drive and
The washing machine according to claim 11, wherein the blower is preferably a blower fan. The outer tank is provided with an intake port that communicates with the blower device and an exhaust port that communicates with the collection chamber. The intake port is installed close to the lowest point of the outer tank, and the exhaust port is Installed close to the highest point of the outer tank,
Preferably, the washing machine is a drum washing machine, the intake port is located below the horizontal plane where the central axis of the outer tub is located, and the exhaust port is located above the horizontal plane where the central axis of the outer tub is located. death,
More preferably, the exhaust port is installed close to the tank port of the outer tank, and the intake port is installed away from the tank port of the outer tank.
Alternatively, the washing machine according to claim 14, wherein the intake port is installed close to the tub port of the outer tub, and the exhaust port is installed away from the tub port of the outer tub. Further, it includes a particle input path for communicating the collection chamber and the outer tank and a control device capable of opening / blocking the particle input path, and the communication port between the particle input path and the collection chamber is the particle input path and the outer tank. It is higher than the communication port with, and when the control device opens the particle input path, the cleaning particles enter the outer tank from the particle collection device by the action of gravity.
Preferably, the particle input path has an upper end communicating with the bottom wall of the particle collecting device and a lower end communicating with an outer tank, and the control device is a solenoid valve. The washing machine according to any one of 15. Further, the window gasket of the glass door and / or the detergent case and / or the input duct communicating with the detergent case are included, and the window gasket is partially folded to form a curved path, and the curved path and the detergent case are formed. , The input ducts are all connected to the outer tank, the curved path and / or the detergent case, and / or the input ducts are connected to the collection chamber, and the power unit has a medium that cleans the cleaning particles in the outer tank. The washing machine according to any one of claims 11 to 16, wherein the washing machine is driven so as to automatically clean an appropriate part in the process of entering the bending path and / or the detergent case and / or the input duct. It is a control method of the washing machine, and the washing machine is
With the outer tank
A particle collector with a collection chamber that communicates with the outer tank,
Includes power unit, which communicates with the collection room / outer tank,
The control method is characterized in that when the washing machine is controlled to activate the power unit, the power unit is driven to perform automatic cleaning in the process of entering the collection chamber with the cleaning particles in the outer tub. Control method to do. The power unit is an intake device, and the intake end of the intake device communicates with the collection chamber.
The control method is characterized in that when the washing machine is controlled to activate the intake device, automatic cleaning is performed in the process of the air in the outer tub entering the collection chamber together with the cleaning particles due to the suction of the intake device. The control method according to claim 18. Further, it includes a particle input path for communicating the collection chamber and the outer tank and a control device capable of opening / blocking the particle input path, and the communication port between the particle input path and the collection chamber is the particle input path and the outer tank. It is higher than the communication port with
In the control method,
When the washing machine controls the control device to open the loading path, the cleaning particles enter the outer tub from the particle collecting device by the action of gravity, and the washing machine controls the control device to block the loading path. 18. The control method described in. With the outer tank
A particle collector with a collection chamber that communicates with the outer tank,
A first power unit that communicates with the outer tank, allows the medium to enter the outer tank, accompany the cleaning particles in the outer tank, and drive automatic cleaning.
A washing machine comprising a second power unit, which communicates with the collection chamber and drives the medium to enter the collection chamber with the cleaning particles in the outer tub and to realize the collection of the cleaning particles. The first power device is a blower, the exhaust end of the blower communicates with the outer tank, the second power device is an intake device, and the intake end of the intake device communicates with the collection chamber. Ori,
The washing machine according to claim 21, wherein the blower is preferably a blower fan and the intake device is an intake fan. The collection chamber is provided with a blocking mechanism capable of blocking the collection chamber, and the blocking mechanism collects cleaning particles in the collection chamber by blocking the collection chamber.
Preferably, the blocking mechanism is a filter plate / filter net, and the filter plate / filter net is installed between the communication port between the intake device and the collection chamber and the communication port between the outer tank and the collection chamber. The washing machine according to claim 21 or 22, wherein the washing machine is connected to a collection room and separates two communication ports. Further, the particle storage device includes a particle storage device, the particle storage device has a storage chamber communicating with the outer tank, the cleaning particles are housed in the storage chamber, the exhaust end of the blower communicates with the storage chamber, and the blower device. The washing machine according to any one of claims 21 to 23, wherein the medium enters the inside of the outer tub together with cleaning particles in the storage chamber and is driven to perform automatic cleaning. Further, a communication path for communicating the storage room of the particle storage device and the collection room of the particle collection device, and a first control device for opening / blocking the communication path are included, and the communication port between the communication path and the collection room is provided. It is higher than the communication port between the communication path and the storage chamber, and when the first control device opens the communication path, the cleaning particles enter the particle storage device from the particle collection device by the action of gravity.
17. washing machine. Further, a particle input path for communicating the collection chamber and the outer tank and a second control device capable of opening / blocking the particle input path are included, and the communication port between the particle input path and the collection chamber is the particle input path. It is higher than the communication port with the outer tank, and when the second control device opens the particle input path, the cleaning particles enter the outer tank from the particle collection device by the action of gravity.
The washing machine according to any one of claims 21 to 25, wherein the second control device is preferably a solenoid valve. The communication port communicating with the first power unit in the outer tank is installed close to the lowest point of the outer tank.
Preferably, the washing machine is a drum washing machine, and the communication port between the exhaust end of the blower and the outer tub is installed at the lowest part of the side wall of the outer tub.
Alternatively, according to any one of claims 21 to 26, the washing machine is a pulsator washing machine, and the communication port between the exhaust end of the blower and the outer tub is installed on the bottom wall of the outer tub. The washing machine described. The washing machine also includes a window gasket for the glass door and / or a detergent case and / or an input duct that communicates with the detergent case, the window gasket being partially folded to form a curved path, glass. The washing machine according to any one of claims 21 to 27, wherein the curved path of the door and / or the detergent case and / or the input duct are all communicated with the collection chamber. It is a control method of the washing machine, and the washing machine is
With the outer tank
A particle collector with a collection chamber that communicates with the outer tank,
The first power unit that communicates with the outer tank,
Including the second power unit, which communicates with the collection room,
In the control method, when the washing machine is controlled to activate the first power unit, the first power unit is driven so that the medium enters the outer tub and is accompanied by the cleaning particles in the outer tub to perform automatic cleaning. When the washing machine is controlled to activate the second power unit, the second power unit is driven so that the medium enters the collection chamber with the cleaning particles and realizes the collection of the cleaning particles.
Preferably, the washing machine has reached a predetermined usage time / number of washes / amount of filth / amount of mold before controlling to activate the first power unit. A control method comprising controlling to start the first power unit when it is determined whether or not the item has been selected / reached. The first power device is a blower, the exhaust end of the blower communicates with the outer tank, the second power device is an intake device, and the intake end of the intake device communicates with the collection chamber. ,
In the above method, when the washing machine is controlled to activate the blower, the blower is driven so that the medium enters the outer tub and is accompanied by cleaning particles in the outer tub to perform automatic cleaning, and the washing machine takes in air. 29. The washing machine according to claim 29, wherein when controlled to activate the apparatus, the intake device drives the medium to suck the cleaning particles in the outer tub into the collection chamber to realize the collection of the cleaning particles. Control method. With the outer tank
A particle storage device that has a storage chamber that communicates with the outer tank and stores cleaning particles in the storage chamber.
A liquid transport device in which the liquid supply end extends into the liquid medium, the liquid discharge end communicates with the storage chamber, and the liquid medium enters the inside of the outer tank with cleaning particles to drive automatic cleaning. A washing machine characterized by containing. The liquid supply end of the liquid transfer device communicates with the outer tank, and the liquid transfer device drives the liquid medium in the outer tank to return to the inside of the outer tank together with the cleaning particles in the storage chamber to perform automatic cleaning. death,
Preferably, the liquid transfer device is a water pump, in which the liquid supply end communicates with the outer tank through the return water duct, the discharge end communicates with the storage chamber, and the storage chamber conveys. The washing machine according to claim 31, wherein the washing machine communicates with an outer tub through a water channel, and a circulation water channel is formed by a transport water channel and a ring water duct. The outer tank is provided with a first communication port that communicates with the liquid supply end of the liquid transport device, and the first communication port is installed close to the lowest point of the outer tank.
Preferably, the washing machine according to claim 31 or 32, wherein the outer tub of the washing machine has a drain port, and the outer tub and the liquid supply end of the liquid transport device communicate with each other through the drain port. .. A drain pipe is connected to the drain port, and the liquid supply end of the liquid transport device communicates with the drain pipe.
Preferably, the drainage pipe is provided with a drainage device for opening / closing the drainage pipe, and the communication port between the liquid supply end and the drainage pipe of the liquid transport device is in the drainage port and the drainage device. Located between drains,
More preferably, the washing machine according to any one of claims 31 to 33, wherein the drainage device is a drain valve or a drainage pump. The particle storage device is provided with a liquid supply port for communicating the storage chamber and the liquid transfer device, and a liquid discharge port for communicating the storage chamber and the outer tank, and the liquid discharge port is higher than the liquid supply port. It has become
The washing machine according to any one of claims 31 to 34, wherein the liquid supply port is preferably installed on the bottom wall of the particle storage device. The storage chamber is provided with an opening / blocking mechanism capable of opening / blocking the liquid supply port and the liquid discharge port. The liquid medium in the outer tub returns to the inside of the outer tub with the cleaning particles in the storage chamber and drives to perform automatic cleaning. Collected in the storage room by the mechanism
The washing machine according to claim 35, wherein the opening blocking mechanism is a filter plate or a filter net, and the pore size of the filter plate or the filter net is smaller than the particle size of the cleaning particles. Further, the window gasket of the door and / or the detergent case and / or the input duct communicating with the detergent case are included, and the window gasket is partially folded to form a curved path, and the curved path and / or. Alternatively, the detergent case and / or the charging duct are both communicated with the storage chamber, and the liquid transport device allows the liquid medium to enter the curved path and / or the detergent case and / or the charging duct with cleaning particles. Driven to automatically clean the appropriate area,
Preferably, the transport channel further comprises a fold path and / or a detergent case and / or a transport branch corresponding to the inlet duct, and the discharge end of the transport branch is a corresponding fold path and / or. It communicates with the detergent case and / or the input duct,
More preferably, the fold path communicates with the outer tank through the second communication port, and the second communication port connecting the fold path and the outer tank is located at the bottom of the fold path. Item 5. The washing machine according to any one of Items 31 to 36. It is a control method of the washing machine, and the washing machine is
A particle storage device that has an outer tank and a storage chamber that communicates with the outer tank and stores cleaning particles in the storage chamber.
Includes a liquid transfer device, in which the feed end extends into the liquid medium and the discharge end communicates with the storage chamber.
In the above control method, when the washing machine is controlled to activate the liquid transfer device, the liquid transfer device is driven so that the liquid medium enters the inside of the outer tub with the cleaning particles and performs automatic cleaning.
Preferably, the liquid supply end of the liquid transport device communicates with the outer tank.
In the above control method, when the washing machine is controlled to activate the liquid transfer device, the liquid transfer device returns the liquid medium in the outer tub to the inside of the outer tub together with the cleaning particles in the storage chamber to perform automatic cleaning. A control method characterized by driving. The particle storage device is provided with a liquid supply port for communicating the storage chamber and the liquid transfer device, and a discharge port for communicating the storage chamber and the outer tank, and the storage chamber is provided with the liquid supply port and the liquid supply port. An opening blocking mechanism that can open / block the spout is provided.
In the above control method, when the washing machine controls the opening shutoff mechanism to open the liquid supply port and the liquid discharge port and controls to activate the liquid transfer device, the liquid medium in the outer tank is stored in the liquid transfer device. When the cleaning particles in the room are returned to the inside of the outer tub and driven to perform automatic cleaning, and the washing machine controls the opening blocking mechanism to block the liquid supply port and the discharging port, the cleaning particles are released by the opening blocking mechanism. 38. The control method according to claim 38, wherein the particles are collected in a storage chamber. The outer tub of the washing machine has a drainage port, a drainage pipe is connected to the drainage port, and the drainage pipe is provided with a drainage device for opening / shutting off the drainage pipe, and the liquid transport is performed. The communication port between the liquid supply end of the device and the drain pipe is located in the drain pipe between the drain port and the drain device.
In the control method,
When the washing machine controls the opening shutoff mechanism to open the liquid supply port and the liquid discharge port, controls the drainage device to shut off the drainage pipe, and controls to activate the liquid transfer device, the liquid transfer device is operated. , The liquid medium in the outer tub returns to the inside of the outer tub with the cleaning particles in the storage chamber and drives to perform automatic cleaning.
When the washing machine controls the opening blocking mechanism to block the liquid supply port and the discharging port, the cleaning particles are collected in the storage chamber by the opening blocking mechanism.
39. The control method according to claim 39, wherein when the washing machine is controlled to stop the liquid transport device and the drain device is controlled to be started, the liquid medium in the outer tub is discharged from the outer tub.

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