JP3605644B1 - Detergent tank mounted lime softening type hard water washing machine - Google Patents

Abstract

[PROBLEMS] To wash clothes with electrolytic water generated in an electrolytic tank and dissolved water dissolved from a detergent tank fixed in a housing by simply supplying raw water such as tap water, well water, and groundwater. It is a washing machine that can wash clothes with electrolyzed water generated in the electrolyzer and does not require any special addition (input) or special operation, maintenance, etc. from the outside, except for exceptions. .
SOLUTION: Raw water of hard water is passed through an electrolysis tank 30 to generate electrolyzed water containing calcium hydroxide, and the electrolyzed water is passed through a detergent tank 40 to be dissolved water. The raw water of the hard water is softened by the lime softening method while pouring water into the water 20, and the clothes are washed after an appropriate amount of water is poured. Then, raw water of hard water is passed through the electrolytic tank 30 to generate electrolyzed water containing hypochlorous acid, the electrolytic water is poured into the washing tub 20, and the clothes are rinsed after an appropriate amount of water is injected. Thereafter, the calcium salt remaining in the drain pipe 27 or a drain port provided in the house is dissolved (discharged) with the electrolytic water used for rinsing.
[Selection diagram] Fig. 1

Description

  The present invention particularly relates to an electric washing machine used in ordinary households in hard water areas, and in particular, feeds hard water such as tap water, well water, groundwater, etc., without the need to externally input laundry detergent or the like. The present invention relates to a vertical type fully automatic washing machine capable of washing and rinsing clothes only by itself.

  2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, in order to wash clothes with hard water such as tap water, well water, and ground water (hereinafter referred to as raw water) in a hard water area, for example, having a hardness of more than 100 ppm, a washing machine maker, a detergent maker, etc. Requires the use of laundry detergent, etc. slightly larger than the standard usage recommended by the manufacturer, and if the residue of laundry detergent cannot be completely removed in the rinsing process, or if the residue is dried with attached residue, clothing Is known to lose its luster and become less brittle, and in the case of a heat-resistant material, its effect is reduced or it becomes yellowish due to soap burn.

In order to solve the problem, for example, the washing tub itself is used as a non-diaphragm type electrolysis tank to wash the clothes while electrolyzing the raw water supplied (stored) in the washing tub, thereby promoting the dissolution of the laundry detergent. Technology for improving the washing effect as washing water containing chlorous acid (for example, see Patent Document 1),
Filling the washing tub, dehydration tub and special equipment container of the washing machine with cation exchange resin, softening the raw water and supplying water to the washing tub (or dehydration tub), and adding a small amount of laundry detergent to the washing effect (See, for example, Patent Document 2),
Raw water is electrolyzed in a diaphragm type electrolysis tank provided in the washing machine, clothes are washed with electrolytic water (alkaline water) generated on the cathode side, and clothes are washed with electrolytic water (acidic water) generated on the anode side. (See, for example, Patent Literature 3), but similarly, provided with a plurality of electromagnetic water supply valves, and provided electrolyzed water (alkaline water) generated on the cathode side and electrolysis generated on the anode side. A technique devising a method of supplying water (acidic water) or the like (for example, see Patent Document 4);
A technique of electrolyzing raw water in a diaphragm type electrolytic tank provided in a washing machine to remove anions and cations from the raw water and supplying the raw water to the washing tub (for example, see Patent Document 5), and the like. However, a technique is used in which raw water is electrolyzed in a diaphragm type electrolytic cell provided in the washing machine to remove (soften) metal ions and the like from the raw water, and an anionic surfactant is added to the treated water to make it contact with clothing ( For example, see Patent Document 6.),
A technique in which a drug addition device or the like is provided at an outlet portion on the cathode side of a diaphragm type electrolytic cell to automatically add a drug such as a surfactant to electrolyzed water (alkaline water) generated on the cathode side (for example, Patent Document 7) And 8)), and the like.

However, a method of softening raw water with a cation exchange resin (for example, an acidic synthetic resin having a sodium ion type polystyrene / sulfonic acid type functional group) is to add a salt such as NaCl as a regenerant to the cation exchange resin. It is necessary to regenerate water and to remove calcium chloride CaCl _{2 and the} like which are drained at the time of regeneration and solidify at a drain port or the like, and special operations other than washing work and maintenance (maintenance) are difficult.

Also, in a method of removing metal ions (also referred to as calcium ions, magnesium ions, and scale) adhered to an electrode or a diaphragm of an electrolytic cell, the surface of the electrode or the diaphragm of the electrolytic cell is used, for example, in ordinary households. Acid washing (scale dissolution) with trisodium citrate (dihydrate) NaOCOCH ₂ (OH) (COONa) CH ₂ COONa-2H ₂ O which is a food additive to maintain its electrolytic performance etc. In addition, special operations other than the washing operation, maintenance and the like are also difficult.

  Since large electric power (for example, DC voltage of 30 V, 4 to 8 A) must be supplied to the electrolytic cell, it depends on the capacity of the power supply transformer and the like, but the function of the power supply transformer and the semiconductor element is reduced due to the heat generation and the continuous operation. The electrolysis cannot be performed, and usually the electrolysis has to be stopped after a rated time of 5 minutes or 10 minutes. In some cases, the operation of temporarily storing the generated electrolyzed water in a tank and pumping it up with a water absorption pump or the like for use is also required. As a result, there is a possibility that the washing machine cannot be operated all day and the washing operation cannot be repeated many times. In order to solve this problem, a large power transformer and a large heat sink are expected to be required, but at present it is difficult to mount it in a washing machine that is becoming more compact.

Further, commercially available laundry detergents and the like are not only suitable for raw water of hard water, electrolyzed water and the like, but their cleaning effects are not the same.
For example, even in the case of an anionic (anionic) surfactant, for example, salts of saturated or unsaturated fatty acids such as lauric acid, oleic acid, and stearic acid, and higher alcohols such as lauryl sulfate, stearyl sulfate, and palmityl phenol sulfate A salt of a sulfate ester or a salt of an alkylphenol sulfate, a salt of an alkyl ether sulfate such as lauryl ether sulfate or oleyl ether sulfate, a salt of a sulfated oil, a salt of a sulfated fatty acid ester, a salt of a sulfated fatty acid, lauryl sulfonate, Salts of alkyl sulfonic acids such as oleyl sulfonate, salts of alkyl benzene sulfonic acids such as lauryl benzene sulfonate and nonyl benzene sulfonate, and olefins such as paraffin sulfonate Salts of phonates, furthermore, salts of alkyl or dialkyl phosphonates such as lauryl phosphonate, distearyl phosphonate, and salts of acylmethylitaurin, etc. There are various types (see, for example, Patent Document 9).

By the way, a method of softening raw water of hard water with an aqueous solution of calcium hydroxide and sodium carbonate, a so-called Lime soda softening process, has been known in the United States for a long time.
Considering the hardness components of hard water as calcium bicarbonate Ca (HCO ₃ ) ₂ , magnesium chloride MgCl ₂ , calcium sulfate CaSO _4, and adding saturated lime water made by dissolving calcium hydroxide Ca (OH) ₂ in hard water,
Ca (HCO ₃ ) ₂ + Ca (OH) ₂ → 2CaCO ₃ + 2H ₂ O
MgCl ₂ + Ca (OH) ₂ → Mg (OH) ₂ + CaCl ₂
Calcium bicarbonate and magnesium chloride in the water are removed by precipitation of calcium carbonate CaCO ₃ and magnesium hydroxide Mg (OH) ₂ , respectively. Sodium carbonate Na ₂ CO ₃ solution
CaSO ₄ + Na ₂ CO ₃ → CaCO ₃ + Na ₂ SO ₄
CaCl ₂ + Na ₂ CO ₃ → CaCO ₃ + 2NaCl
As a result, calcium sulfate and calcium chloride CaCl ₂ are removed as a precipitate of calcium carbonate. Normally, saturated lime water is made by adding calcium hydroxide to water and adding the required amount together with sodium carbonate solution.
However, it is difficult for ordinary households to make saturated lime water and soften hard water in every washing operation due to chemical operation.

According to a prior art search by the inventor, a technique or the like in which the lime soda softening method is applied to a washing machine is disclosed.
For example, baking soda (sodium bicarbonate NaHCO ₃ ), a food additive used in ordinary households, is added to raw water and electrolyzed in an electrolytic tank to produce a cleaning solution. This is a method of washing clothes while including a step of promoting water softening. The step of promoting the softening of the cleaning liquid is a step of applying thermal energy to the cleaning liquid to be softened, a step of physically stirring or aerating the cleaning liquid to be softened, and adding heat energy to the cleaning liquid, for example, adding the cleaning liquid. By heating or generating a cleaning solution at high temperature, the activity of ions is increased, the reaction of calcium ions and magnesium ions with carbonate ions and bicarbonate ions is promoted, and water is softened in a short time. It is. In addition, when agitation or aeration is performed, the chance of mechanical contact between ions increases, so that the reaction between calcium ions and magnesium ions and carbonate ions and bicarbonate ions is promoted. (For example, see Patent Document 10).
However, this is a so-called detergent-free cleaning method using electrolytic water as a sterilizing cleaning liquid. This is due to the protein removing effect of alkaline electrolyzed water (electrolyzed water usually generated on the cathode side) obtained by electrolyzing water containing an electrolyte and the sterilizing effect of acidic electrolyzed water (electrolyzed water usually generated on the anode side). It is an alternative to conventional chemicals and surfactants.

Japanese Patent Publication No. 49-14173 Japanese Utility Model Publication No. 36-9376 JP-A-5-84384 Japanese Patent No. 3385693 Japanese Patent No. 2906578 Japanese Patent No. 3154765 JP-A-64-36777 JP-A-7-113100 JP-A-9-250079 Japanese Patent No. 3181927 Japanese Patent No. 3423068 JP-A-6-79282

  As described above, the conventional washing machine for hard water countermeasures, compared with a washing machine having only a general washing tub and a dehydration tub, adds salt and the like for regeneration of the cation exchange resin and the like, and is drained at the time of regeneration. Removal of calcium salt (calcium chloride) solidified at the drain pipe of the washing machine or the drain port provided in the house, acid washing of the electrolytic cell electrode and the like with citric acid and the like (water washing, immersion washing or brushing, etc.), Addition of baking soda for lime soda softening, addition of designated laundry detergent (eg anionic surfactant), etc. Is required.

The present invention has been made in view of the above-mentioned problems of the conventional technology, and has as its object to supply only raw water of hard water. It is an object of the present invention to provide a washing machine that does not require input or special operation, maintenance and the like.
However, a soft finish (rinse) agent that is arbitrarily added (dosed) in the rinsing process, etc., and a debris remover in the washing tub that is periodically added to disinfect the outer peripheral surface of the inner tub of the washing tub, etc. except. (It goes without saying that it is not necessary to add a detergent removing agent in the washing tub to a detergent tub described later.)

  In order to achieve the above object, the washing machine of the present invention has a configuration (hardware) that employs an electric motor (usually adopts a high torque DD inverter type electric motor that uses a combination of a magnet torque and a reluctance torque to rotate the electric motor. In general, a direct drive system without a belt or gear for transmitting / decelerating the motor is used, but a belt or gear for transmitting / decelerating the rotation of the motor may be mounted in addition to the motor.) An inner tank (e.g., a wing-like projection that promotes agitation is provided on the inner peripheral surface) that is housed in the tank and the outer tank and is rotated by the electric motor (can be rotated clockwise or counterclockwise; only one of them can be rotated). ), And a washing tub (usually serving as a dewatering tub), which is provided on the inner bottom of the inner tub and is rotated by the electric motor (can be rotated clockwise or counterclockwise; only one of them can be rotated). Stirrer (pulsator) and hard water A plurality of flat electrodes and a diaphragm are used to separate and generate electrolytic water generated on the cathode side and electrolytic water generated on the anode side by applying a direct current voltage by passing raw water and electrolyzing and flowing out to piping. , A fixed detergent tub (washing detergent storage container) in a housing filled with laundry detergent, an electromagnetic water supply valve, an electromagnetic multi-way switching valve, and piping, and the raw water is supplied to the water supply valve. Electrolytic water is passed through the detergent tank by switching the flow path of the multi-way switching valve or the like by opening and closing, or dissolved water or electrolytic water in which laundry detergent is dissolved from the detergent tank is supplied to the washing tank. A water supply means for injecting water, a control unit for controlling the electric motor, the electrolytic cell and the water supply means by an open / close combination of operation switches of a printed wiring board, and a drain valve and a drain pipe are provided in a casing (casing). It is characterized by having a washing machine provided.

The control unit of the washing machine is basically composed of electric control system hardware (printed wiring board, externally mounted sensors, etc.) and software (control microcomputer, etc.).
A printed wiring board is generally called a printed wiring board. As a general outline, in a copper foil of a copper-clad laminate, only a wiring pattern necessary for an electric circuit (including a power supply circuit) is left by etching, and components to be mounted are mounted. Perforated according to the shape of the lead foot, etc. and subjected to solder resist treatment and silk character printing. Manufacturing steps and procedures may vary by manufacturer. The printed circuit board includes electronic circuit components or electric circuit components (for example, operation switches, LED lamps, LCDs, control microcomputers, resistors, capacitors, coils, transistors, FETs, power rectifier diodes, thyristors, triacs, three-terminal regulators, ICs, etc.). , Buzzer, speaker, relay, fuse, connector, heat sink, eyelet, screw, etc.) are mounted.
In a control microcomputer which is also an electronic circuit component (for example, an 8-bit microcomputer, a ROM, a RAM, etc. integrated), an electric motor, an electrolytic cell, a water supply means, etc. are electrically controlled by opening and closing combinations of operation switches. The operation is performed according to a processing procedure (program or software) stored in advance in a ROM or an EEPROM of the control microcomputer.
In an actual washing machine, a weight sensor for detecting the weight of clothes, a water level sensor for detecting the water level of a washing tub, a water temperature sensor for detecting the temperature of raw water, and a vibration (swinging) for detecting abnormal swing of the washing tub are further provided. Detection) Sensors, externally mounted sensors such as a lid lock switch for ensuring safety, etc. are mounted respectively, and the control microcomputer also processes the electric signals etc. which are output individually, and finely detailed electric motor, electrolytic cell and water supply Means are electrically controlled.

In operation (software), the solenoid-operated water supply valve is opened, raw water [H ₂ O + Ca (HCO ₃ ) ₂ ] is passed through the electrolytic cell, and a direct voltage is applied to the electrolytic cell positively (flat plate). A state in which a DC voltage is connected so that a current flows from the electrode 1 to the plate electrode 2. At this time, the plate electrode 1 becomes an anode and the plate electrode 2 becomes a cathode. Electrolyte water [H ₂ O , Ca (HCO ₃ ) ₂ , Ca (OH) ₂ ] containing calcium hydroxide Ca (OH) ₂ is discharged into piping, and the electromagnetic multi-way switching valve is operated to operate the flow path. , And the discharged electrolytic water is passed through the detergent tub to dissolve the laundry detergent in the detergent tub, and the dissolved water is poured into the washing tub in an appropriate amount (prescribed amount). calcium salts were lime softened by stirring effect by the inner tub and / or rotation of the stirring blade with closed operating the valves [e.g., calcium carbonate CaCO _3, water Performs washing of clothes while the magnesium Mg (OH) _2] of precipitated (subsidence),
After washing and draining, the electromagnetic water supply valve is opened to pass the raw water through the electrolytic cell, and a DC voltage is reversely applied to the electrolytic cell (so that a current flows from the plate electrode 2 to the plate electrode 1). A state in which a direct-current voltage is connected. At this time, the plate electrode 2 becomes an anode, and the plate electrode 1 becomes a cathode.) When hypochlorite HClO [or calcium hypochlorite Ca (ClO) ₂ ] containing electrolytic water [H ₂ O , Ca (HCO ₃ ) ₂ , HClO , Ca (ClO) ₂ ] is allowed to flow out to the piping, and the electromagnetic multi-way switching valve is operated to switch the flow path. Inject the appropriate amount of the electrolyzed water into the washing tub.After the water is injected, close the electromagnetic water supply valve to rinse the clothes.When draining after rinsing, drain with the electrolyzed water used in the rinsing. Dissolve calcium salts [eg, calcium carbonate CaCO ₃ , calcium chloride CaCl ₂ ] remaining in pipes and drains provided in houses. It is characterized by draining (removing) while unraveling.

  In detail, in the electrolytic cell, the residual water remaining in the electrolytic cell is not drained even after the washing and rinsing steps, and the washing operation is performed once (in the case of ordinary automatic processing, one washing step and one or One washing operation is performed in several rinsing steps and several dehydrating steps. In the case of manual processing or a drying step, the number of steps is different, but even in that case, one washing operation is performed. In this case, the DC voltage is applied to the electrolytic cell for approximately the same time (for example, 10 minutes) between the time when the direct voltage is applied and the time when the reverse voltage is applied, and until the life of the washing machine (for example, 7 years) is reached. It is characterized in that maintenance such as acid cleaning and cleaning of the electrode of the tank is not required.

The detergent tub is characterized in that the detergent tub is filled with laundry detergent that does not require external replenishment of the laundry detergent until the life of the washing machine (for example, seven years).
The laundry detergent to be filled in the detergent tub is preferably a solidified solidified detergent component (solidified liquid) or a solidified solid, a catalyst such as a ceramic ball that radiates far-infrared rays, and the like. Aluminum metal pieces that can be expected to have a cleaning effect, magnets that can expect the effect of magnetized water (for example, sedimentation of calcium salt) (although expensive, rare earth magnets such as samarium-cobalt magnets and neodymium magnets are preferable), and zeolites It is advisable to devise and mix (blend) a substance having an adsorption effect such as activated carbon having a high lead removal effect.
Of course, the laundry detergent may be, for example, a jelly-like or gel-like semi-solid or liquid. In particular, a concentrated jelly-like laundry detergent or a concentrated liquid laundry detergent may be better because the filling amount can be reduced.

  In a control unit configured with an electric circuit or a power supply circuit to supply a DC voltage to be applied to the electrolytic cell from a power supply transformer, the power supply transformer is generated on the anode side that is drained when a DC voltage is applied to the electrolytic cell positively. The electrolyzed water to be used is a water-cooled type using electrolyzed water generated on the cathode side which is drained when a DC voltage is reversely applied to the electrolytic cell, thereby enabling continuous electrolysis. The used electrolyzed water is discharged as it is through the drain hose of the washing machine. For example, see Patent Literature 11 for this water-cooled configuration example.

Further, as for a heat radiating means such as a heat radiating plate for radiating heat of a semiconductor element or the like used for a power supply circuit or the like, electrolytic water generated on the anode side which is drained when a DC voltage is positively applied to the electrolytic cell, It is characterized in that it is of a water-cooling type utilizing electrolyzed water generated on the cathode side which is drained when a DC voltage is reversely applied to the electrolytic cell, thereby enabling continuous electrolysis. The used electrolyzed water is discharged as it is through the drain hose of the washing machine.
A semiconductor element such as a switching element that generates heat used in a power supply circuit or the like (for example, a power supply IC such as a transistor, an FET, a power supply rectifier diode, a thyristor, a triac, a three-terminal regulator, etc. Many of those which are built in a package called a TO-220 type having a mounting hole or a so-called TO-220 insulating type are mainly used, including those which are ON-OFF controlled by a microcomputer or the like. Normally, a temperature of about 4 ° C. to 38 ° C. is referred to, and a temperature higher than that is referred to as hot water).

  By providing a fixed electrolytic tank, detergent tank, water supply means, and the like in the housing of the washing machine, only by supplying raw water of hard water, the electrolytic water generated in the electrolytic tank and the detergent fixed in the housing are provided. The clothes can be washed with the dissolved water dissolved from the bath, and the clothes can be rinsed with the electrolytic water generated in the electrolytic bath. There is an effect that maintenance-free operation can be performed for a long period of time without requiring operation and maintenance.

The purpose of being able to do washing work by simply supplying hard water raw water without compromising compactness (slimness) despite the addition of an electrolytic cell, detergent tank, and water supply means fixed in the housing of the washing machine. It was realized.
However, since it cannot be said that all the clothes can be handled only by the washing machine of the present invention, as an exception, depending on the clothes, it is possible to add hot water from the outside or to add an alkali auxiliary (such as sodium carbonate). That is.

  FIG. 1 is a schematic view including a partial sectional view of a washing machine 10 of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a schematic view showing how the electrolytic tank 30, the detergent tank 40, and the water supply means 50 are connected. FIG. 3 is a perspective view showing the configuration of the electrolytic cell 30. FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram showing a water-cooled power supply circuit section (printed wiring board 73 for power control and power supply transformer 76).

  The washing machine 10 according to one embodiment of the present invention includes an electric motor 25, an outer tub 21 that does not rotate with the electric motor 25, and an inner tub 22 provided in the outer tub 21 and rotated with the electric motor 25 and provided with a wing-like projection 23. And a stirring blade 24 provided at the inner bottom of the inner tub 22 and rotated by the electric motor 25 and provided with wing-like projections (in the washing step of one embodiment of the present invention, The inner tank 22 was rotated in the reverse direction.), A raw water inlet 36, a water injection outlet 38, a drainage outlet 37, one flat electrode 31, one flat electrode 32, and one diaphragm 33. , A fixed detergent tank 40 in a housing filled with laundry detergent, and a pilot valve type electromagnetic water supply valve 51 (details are omitted, but voltage is applied to an electromagnetic coil having a fixed iron core). When excited, the movable core is attracted into the electromagnetic coil, A device in which a pilot valve provided at an end is opened and a main valve is opened in conjunction therewith, a solenoid operated three-way switching valve 52 of a direct-acting valve type (details are omitted, but usually one inlet [ Import] A and two outlets [Outports] B and C. When no voltage is applied to the electromagnetic coil having a fixed iron core [Demagnetization], the valve opens between A and B and closes between A and C. A valve that closes between A and B and opens between A and C when a voltage is applied to the electromagnetic coil [excitation], or opens and closes the electromagnetic water supply valve 51 with the raw water. And the electrolytic water flowing out from the pouring outlet 38 of the electrolytic cell 30 to the pipes 53 by switching the flow path of the electromagnetic three-way switching valve 52 is supplied to the detergent tank. To pass water to the washing tub 20 or to supply dissolved water or electrolytic water in which the laundry detergent is dissolved from the detergent tub 40 to the washing tub 20; Piping 53 (In one embodiment of the present invention, a single hard resin molded pipe is used, but a metal pipe such as copper, aluminum, stainless steel, or a soft resin hose may be used. A water passage (a through passage) may be formed in an integrated hard resin molded pipe, a hard resin block, or a metal block.) Electrolytic water drain 54 for draining the electrolytic water flowing out of drain outlet 37 to drain pipe 27 (in one embodiment of the present invention, a stainless metal pipe is used, but a resin molded pipe may be used) or Similarly, a water injection pipe 55 for injecting electrolytic water or dissolved water into the washing tub 20 (in one embodiment of the present invention, a water injection port having a plurality of holes to allow shower water injection) is provided. Salary including A power control printed wiring board 73 for controlling the electric motor 25, the electrolytic cell 30, and the water supply means 50 by opening and closing a water means 50, an operation printed wiring board 71, and an operation switch 72 of the operation printed wiring board 71. And a drain valve 26 provided at the lower part of the washing tub 20 (details are omitted, but in one embodiment of the present invention, a small electric motor [motor] pulls a wire or the like to form a main valve. And a drain pipe 27 (one end of a flexible drain hose 28). ) Was provided in the housing (casing) 11.

Although the washing machine 10 is provided with a ground terminal so that the electric motor 25 and the housing 11 can be directly grounded (grounded), a power supply having a three-terminal power plug (3P) with a ground is provided. A cable (three-core cable) or the like may be adopted and grounded from a household power outlet or the like.
Even if a lid lock switch or the like for ensuring safety breaks down, the washing machine is provided with a safety mechanism device and the like so that the electric motor 25 is forcibly stopped when the lid 12 is opened.

In the washing tub 20 according to one embodiment of the present invention, the outer tub 21 is formed of a hard resin, and the inner tub 22 is formed of stainless steel.
The outer tub 21 is elastically supported by the housing 11 via a plurality of suspension rods 13. Although not shown, in one embodiment of the present invention, a weight sensor and the like are provided below the hanging bar 13. The weight sensors and the like may be provided inside the legs 14 provided at the four corners on the lower surface of the housing 11.
The inner bottom portion of the outer tank 21 is provided with a curved (tapered) surface for guiding a sediment (settlement) toward the drain valve 26 so that a calcium salt or the like that sediments (sinks) is easily discharged. If an Archimedes spiral (spiral) shaped protrusion (rib or bead) or the like (either a continuous or intermittently formed one or a plurality of ones may be provided) on this curved surface, drainage is possible. Since the raw water and the like to be swirled, the efficiency of discharging calcium salts and the like is improved.
Although not shown, an air trap portion is provided below the outer tub 21, and piping is performed by an air tube so that air pressure in the air trap portion is transmitted to a water level sensor. Further, a water temperature sensor or the like for detecting the water temperature of the raw water is provided.
In particular, although the outer tank 21 was not provided with an overflow (overflow) port, an overflow pipe (or hoses, etc.), etc., in the case where an overflow pipe or the like is provided, for example, the drain pipe 27 is placed from above the outer tank 21. It is preferable to provide piping so that the water is drained from the drainage hose 28. Further, for example, an overflow sensor or the like may be provided in the overflow pipe to forcibly stop water supply (water injection) simultaneously with overflow.
Here, it includes sanitary pests (for example, lice, mites, cockroaches) and small animals (for example, rats, snakes, and birds) that enter from the drain hose 28 and the like, and odors and sewage (calcium salt-containing water) due to backflow. ) May enter the drain pipe 27 or the like and become unsanitary. Therefore, traps (for example, an S-type trap, a P-type trap, a U-type trap, a drum trap, and a belt wrap) are formed in the overflow pipe or the drain pipe 27 or the like. And so on. Further, for example, an activated carbon filter or the like may be provided in the overflow pipe to remove an odor or the like.
In addition to a plurality of through-holes and wing-like projections 23, a foreign matter removing filter (not shown) for removing foreign matters (for example, hair and lint) floating in the inside of the inner tank 22 in the inner peripheral portion of the inner tank 22. Was arranged.
Although not shown, a plurality of balance rings and the like for reducing the vibration (swing) of the inner tank 22 are built in the edge of the upper opening of the inner tank 22.

In the electrolytic bath 30, the flat electrodes 31 and 32 (the present invention) may be used depending on the processing capacity of the washing machine 10 (for example, for 4 kg, 6 kg, and 8 kg) and the difference in the amount of electrolyzed water injected into the washing tub 20. In one embodiment, the titanium plate substrate is plated with platinum, but a platinum group coating such as iridium or the like may be applied to the titanium plate substrate and then sintered. Plates, for example, an aluminum plate, a stainless steel plate, or a ferrite plate.) And a diaphragm 33 (in one embodiment of the present invention, a polyethylene terephthalate resin-type nonwoven paper is used. , A cation exchange resin synthetic non-woven paper, etc.) (for example, three flat electrodes 31, two flat electrodes 32, and three diaphragms 33). .
In the electrolytic cell 30 according to one embodiment of the present invention, the flow ratio (water injection to drainage) of the electrolytic water flowing out by changing the inner diameter of the pipe between the water injection outlet 38 and the drainage outlet 37 was 4: 1. From the viewpoint of water saving, if the flow ratio can be set to an ideal non-drained state, the ratio may be 10: 1 or 20: 1.
Then, in order to prevent calcium salts (scale) from adhering to the flat electrodes 31 and 32, the residual water remaining in the electrolytic cell 30 after the washing and rinsing steps is not drained from the raw water inlet 36 and the drain outlet 37. And (Of course, due to the siphon phenomenon, it is inevitable that some residual water will be drained from the drainage outlet 37 through the electrolytic water drainage channel 54 and the drainage pipe 27 and from the drainage hose 28.)
Further, in one washing operation, the time for applying the DC voltage to the electrolytic cell 30 is set to be substantially the same as the time of the forward application and the time of the reverse application (for example, 10 minutes), and the life as the washing machine (for example, 7 minutes) is obtained. ), No maintenance such as acid cleaning and cleaning of the flat electrodes 31 and 32 of the electrolytic cell 30 is required.
However, when the number of times of washing is larger than the specified number, the entire electrolytic bath 30 may be replaced. This is because platinum plating or the like has been peeled off from the surfaces of the plate-like electrodes 31 and 32 and has been consumed to reach a state (lifetime) where the electrolytic function as an electrode cannot be exhibited.

In the detergent tub 40 according to one embodiment of the present invention, a 3000 cc capacity container for storing laundry detergent is used, and the detergent tub 40 does not require external replenishment of laundry detergent until the life of the washing machine (for example, seven years). Filled with laundry detergent.
However, when the number of times of washing is larger than the specified number, the detergent tub 40 fixed in the housing 11 of the washing machine 10 may be replaced. This is also because the capacity of the detergent tub 40 is restricted by the mounting space in the housing 11 of the washing machine 10.
The laundry detergent to be filled in the detergent tub 40 includes granular solids, ceramic balls, aluminum metal pieces, and cylindrical neodymium magnets (the raw material corrodes, so it is preferable to apply a fluororesin coating or the like). Compounded and used.
In one embodiment of the present invention, as the granular solid, for example, a bead-shaped solid disclosed in Chinese Utility Model Publication No. CN2335919Y, US Pat. No. 5,474,713, JP-A-7-258691, and the like. It was adopted.
Of course, a concentrated liquid laundry detergent may be used as the laundry detergent to be filled in the detergent tank 40.

In the control unit 70 according to the embodiment of the present invention, the operation switch 72, the LED lamp, the control microcomputer, the buzzer, etc., the operation printed wiring board 71, the electric motor 25, the electrolytic cell 30 And a power control printed wiring board 73 for controlling the power supply to the water supply means 50, and disposed in the housing 11 of the washing machine 10. (If the mounting space can be secured, an integrated printed wiring board may be used.) Then, the operation printed wiring board 71, the electric motor 25, The electrolytic bath 30, the water supply means 50, the power control printed wiring board 73, and the like were electrically connected.
As a general outline, the bundle 60 is a bundle of electric wiring materials for supplying electric power from the power control printed wiring board 73 to the water supply means 50 and electrically connecting the bundle, and the bundle 61 is a print for operation. An electric wiring material or the like for electrically connecting the wiring board 71, the power control printed wiring board 73, the water supply means 50, and the like is bundled.
Further, although not shown, a weight sensor for detecting the weight of clothes, a water level sensor for detecting the water level of the washing tub, a water temperature sensor for detecting the temperature of the raw water, and a washing tub Flow sensor to detect the flow rate of water injected into the tub, vibration (oscillation detection) sensor to detect abnormal swing of the washing tub, lid lock switch to ensure safety, motor rotation sensor, motor abnormal temperature detection sensor, drain valve Externally mounted sensors, such as a drainage flow rate sensor for detecting the drainage flow rate, are provided. Similarly, although not shown, the operation printed wiring board 71, the externally mounted sensors, the power control printed wiring board 73, and the like are electrically connected to each other with the bundled wires 62 or the like obtained by bundling electrical wiring materials or the like. Connection was made.
The printed wiring boards 71 and 73 are housed in a resin molded case or the like, and are made of a potting material (for example, an electric insulating material such as a urethane resin, a polyester resin, an epoxy resin, or a silicone resin, an adhesive sealing material, or another material. (Including those for waterproofing, moisture-proofing, and dew-condensing).)
As a simple waterproofing measure, a material coated with a moistureproofing material (brush coating, spray coating) may be used.

In the power control printed wiring board 73, the DC voltage applied to the electrolytic cell 30 is supplied from a power transformer 76, and is opened and closed by a semiconductor element 74 such as a switching element or a relay. An electric circuit including an abnormal temperature detection circuit for the element 74, a sensor circuit for monitoring voltage and current, and a power supply circuit for reducing electromagnetic noise were formed.
A radiator plate 75 and a power transformer 76 for dissipating heat generated by the semiconductor element 74 and the like are connected to the electrolytic water drain 54 so that they flow through the electrolytic water drain 54 and drain when a DC voltage is positively applied to the electrolytic cell. The electrolysis water generated on the anode side to be used and the electrolysis water generated on the cathode side which is drained when a DC voltage is reversely applied to the electrolysis tank were used, and a continuous electrolysis was enabled.
The used electrolyzed water was drained from the electrolyzed water drain 54 as it was through the flexible (flexible) connecting hose 56, the drain pipe 27 of the washing machine 10, and the drain hose 28. Here, sanitary pests, small animals, and the like, which enter from the drain hose 28 and the like, and odors and sewage, etc. due to backflow may enter the electrolytic water drain 54 and become unsanitary. It is preferable to provide a trap or the like at 56 or the like. Further, the connection hose 56 and the like may be wound one or more times in a coil shape.
The power transformer 76 is housed in a molded resin case or the like, and is made of a potting material (for example, an electrical insulating material such as urethane resin, polyester resin, epoxy resin, or silicone resin, an adhesive sealing material, or the like; Insulation treatment was also performed using a material for preventing moisture and dew condensation.) A mounting plate 77 was used for connection to the electrolytic water drainage passage 54. (It may be a built-in pipe type through which the electrolytic water drainage channel 54 penetrates.)

In the operation printed wiring board 71, the control microcomputer, which is also an electronic circuit component, supplies the electric motor, the electrolytic cell, and the water supply by an electric signal and the like which are individually output by the externally mounted sensors and an open / close combination of operation switches. A plurality of processing procedures (programs or software) were registered so as to electrically control the means and the like.
As an example, power ON / OFF, automatic (selectable from normal once course, normal continuous course, water saving course, detergent-free course, etc.) and manual (immersion treatment, washing, dehydration, and forced) by opening and closing combinations of operation switches Drainage, water level, type of clothing, etc. can be selected), current time setting, washing start time reservation, late-night washing (low noise operation), etc. can be selected and set, and based on the selected setting, electric signals of externally mounted sensors A plurality of processing procedures are registered so that the electric motor, the electrolytic cell, the water supply means, and the like are operated while the processing is performed.

According to the registered processing procedure, for example, in the automatic / normal single-course washing process of the washing machine 10, the electromagnetic water supply valve 51 is opened and the hard water is passed through the raw water inlet 36 of the electrolytic cell 30. Water is applied, and a DC voltage is applied positively to the electrolytic cell 30 (a state in which a DC voltage is connected so that a current flows from the plate electrode 31 to the plate electrode 32. At this time, the plate electrode 31 becomes an anode and Electrolyte containing calcium hydroxide generated on the cathode side when the electrode 32 becomes a cathode flows out from the water injection outlet 38 of the electrolytic cell 30 to the pipes 53, and the electromagnetic three-way switching valve 52 Is operated to switch the flow path, the electrolytic water flowing out from the water injection outlet 38 of the electrolytic tank 30 to the piping 53 is passed through the detergent tank 40 to dissolve the laundry detergent in the detergent tank 40, The dissolved water is supplied from the injection pipe 55 to the washing tub 20. After injecting a fixed amount (for example, depending on the weight of clothing), after injecting a specified amount of water, the electromagnetic water supply valve 51 is closed and the electric motor 25 is rotated (for example, clockwise for a certain time, and then some time later). The rotation is repeated leftward, and each rotation time is different depending on the weight of the clothes.) Then, the lime is softened by the stirring effect of the rotation of the inner tank 22 and / or the stirring blade 24 to precipitate the calcium salt (settling). I tried to wash clothes while running.
Of course, even if it is said that lime is softened, not all calcium salts are insoluble products, and a hardness of about 10 to 30 ppm corresponding to the solubility of calcium carbonate exists as residual hardness.
When a DC voltage is positively applied to the electrolytic cell 30, the electrolyzed water containing hypochlorous acid generated on the anode side flows out from the drain outlet 37 of the electrolytic cell 30. Is drained through. (The method of using this drained electrolyzed water is as described above.)

After the washing step, the drainage dehydration is terminated by the registered processing procedure, although not described in detail, and thereafter, the electromagnetic water supply valve 51 is opened to flow raw water of hard water into the electrolytic cell 30. The DC voltage is reversely applied to the electrolytic cell 30 (a state where a DC voltage is connected so that a current flows from the plate electrode 32 to the plate electrode 31. At this time, the plate electrode 32 becomes an anode and the plate electrode Electrolyzed water containing hypochlorous acid (which can be expected to have a bleaching effect) generated on the anode side at the time of the cathode is discharged from the water injection outlet 38 of the electrolytic tank 30 to the piping 53. By operating the electromagnetic three-way switching valve 52 to switch the flow path, the electrolyzed water flowing out from the water injection outlet 38 of the electrolysis tank 30 to the pipes 53 is supplied from the water injection pipe 55 to the washing tub 20 in a specified amount (for example, , Depending on the weight of the clothing.) After the fixed amount of water is injected, the electromagnetic water supply valve 51 is closed, and the electric motor 25 is rotated (for example, right rotation for a certain time and left rotation for a certain time thereafter. (In one embodiment of the present invention, the rinsing step is performed once because the water-saving type is used. After that, a draining step may be performed, and the rinsing step may be performed two or more times.) To do.
When a DC voltage is reversely applied to the electrolytic cell 30, the electrolytic water containing calcium hydroxide generated on the cathode side flows out of the drainage outlet 37 of the electrolytic cell 30, and the electrolytic water drainage channel 54 It is drained through the street. (The method of using this drained electrolyzed water is as described above.)

After the rinsing process, the drain valve 26 is opened to dissolve the calcium salt remaining in the drain pipe 27 or the drain port provided in the house with the electrolytic water used in the rinsing, and discharge the drain pipe 27 and the drain water. The water was drained (removed) through the hose 28.
After the drainage is completed, drainage dehydration is terminated, the drainage valve 26 is closed, and the melody sound (buzzer sound) of the end of the washing operation is performed on the operation printed wiring board 71, although details are omitted, though not described in detail. Sounded.
As one embodiment, a series of washing operations (registered processing procedures) in an automatic / normal one-time course has been described. However, in the washing machine 10 according to one embodiment of the present invention, other operations may be performed by opening and closing combinations of operation switches. Usually, a continuous course, a water-saving course, a detergent-free course and the like can be selected, but details are omitted.

The details other than the control unit 79 are the same as those of the first embodiment, and thus the details are omitted.
Although not shown, the control unit 79 is a combination of the operation printed wiring board 71 and the power control printed wiring board 78 not combined with the power transformer 76, and controls the DC voltage applied to the electrolytic cell 30 by power control. An electric circuit and a power supply circuit are configured to be supplied from a switching power supply circuit section in the printed wiring board 78 for use.
A heat radiating means such as a heat radiating plate for radiating heat generated by the switching elements and the like of the switching power supply circuit unit is connected to the electrolytic water drain 54 to flow in the electrolytic water drain 54 and apply a direct voltage to the electrolytic cell. Electrolyzed water generated on the anode side drained when water is applied, and water-cooled using electrolyzed water generated on the cathode side drained when a DC voltage is reversely applied to the electrolytic cell, enables continuous electrolysis. .
The used electrolyzed water was discharged as it was from the electrolyzed water drain 54 through the drain pipe 27 and the drain hose 28 of the washing machine 10.

  As described above, various combinations and the like have been described for the preferred embodiments of the present invention. However, the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and many combinations and modifications are possible without departing from the spirit of the invention. It goes without saying that it is possible to perform such operations.

For example, it is more preferable that the detergent tub 40 be blended with an agent for removing extraneous matter in the washing tub according to the demand of the consumer.
Triclosan solid (2,4,4'-trichloro-2'-hydroxydiphenyl ether, etc.) that can be expected to have a disinfecting effect as an agent for removing deposits in the washing tub. Suitable for disinfectants for hands, medicated soaps, deodorants, cosmetics, etc. It is highly safe for human body, clothes and washing machine parts.), Halogenated hydantoin compound (1,3-dichloro) which produces hypohalous acid with high sterilization effect by hydrolysis (5,5-Dimethylhydantoin, 1-bromo-3-dichloro5,5-dimethylhydantoin, 1,3-dichloro5,5-ethylhydantoin, etc.) solidified into beads, etc. good.
As an example, the electrolytic bath 30, the detergent bath 40, the water supply means 50, and the like of the individual components were combined, but a box (base) integrally formed with the pipes 53 was formed, and each unit was formed there. The electrolytic tank unit, the detergent tank unit, the electromagnetic water supply valve unit, and the electromagnetic multi-way switching valve unit may be connected to form a single water treatment device.

In the rinsing process, the control microcomputer is provided with an automatic softener (rinsing) agent feeding device according to a consumer's request, etc., so that the soft microcomputer is automatically injected to rinse the clothes. You may register.
In order to improve the efficiency of rinsing, a bubble generator (bubbles may be generated by mechanical energy of a low-frequency vibrator) or the like is provided in the outer tank 21, and ultrasonic waves (cavitation) generated when the bubbles disappear. It is even better to use etc.

The temperature of the raw water, the flow rate of water injected into the washing tub 20, the total number of washings (the remaining amount of the laundry detergent in the detergent tub 40), the accumulated water flow through the electrolytic tub 30 (electrolysis time), Displays the current process in the series of washing operations, the estimated time of finishing the washing operations, etc. (LED / LCD, etc., lighting / off / flashing, red / blue / yellow / green, symbols / characters / graphics, etc.) (A visual display by using a buzzer, a loudspeaker, etc., using a buzzer, a loudspeaker, or the like), and an output such as a constant frequency sound, a melody sound, a voice, or the like to the auditory sense may be output.
When the operation switch 72 is pressed, a confirmation signal sound or voice may be output, or when it is not clear how to press the operation switch 72, a voice guidance may be provided.
When the inside of the washing tub 20 is difficult to see due to washing at midnight or the like, an illumination device that illuminates the inside of the washing tub 20 by opening the lid 12 may be provided.

For example, a coiled heater or the like may be provided on the outer peripheral portion of the outer tub 21 of the washing tub 20 so that the raw water (dissolved water) can be heated so that hot water washing can be performed.
Further, for example, by adopting a technique disclosed in Japanese Patent Publication No. 60-20073 or the like and applying an AC voltage (or a substantially rectangular wave DC voltage) to the flat electrodes 31 and 32 of the electrolytic cell 30, The temperature of the residual water in the electrolytic bath 30 may be raised to prevent freezing of the electrolytic bath 30 or to supply hot water to the washing tub 20.

  Although a heat radiating plate 75 (also serving as a mounting plate for the electrolytic water drain 54) is employed for radiating heat from the semiconductor elements 74 of the power control printed wiring boards 73 and 78, the heat radiating plate 75 is housed in a resin molded case or the like for insulation treatment. However, this case may be formed of an aluminum plate and the case may be connected to the electrolytic water drain 54. Alternatively, the case may be formed of an aluminum block, and may be of a built-in pipe type in which the electrolytic water drainage channel 54 penetrates the block.

  As the electromagnetic water supply valve 51, a single (single) type is used. For example, a double (double) type is used. One is used for supplying water to the electrolytic cell 30 (water supply), and the other is used for supplying water to the electrolytic tank 30. May be used directly for supplying raw water or hot water (flowing water) to the washing tub 20. Normally, there is even a quadruple electromagnetic water supply valve, so for example, it may be used for dissolving water supply by installing an automatic filler for softening (rinsing) agent, or for example, installing hot air heater for drying It may be used for spray water supply for water-cooled dehumidification and drying, and if its use is devised, many combinations and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention.

  In addition to the water supply by the electromagnetic water supply valve 51, a bath water suction pump or the like may be mounted so that the water is directly supplied to the washing tub 20. Further, a foreign matter removing filter or the like may be provided in a bath water suction pump, piping, or the like so that foreign matters (for example, hair, scale, soap scale, lint) in the bath water do not enter the washing tub 20. .

Although the electromagnetic three-way switching valve 52 is used for switching the flow path, two or two single-type electromagnetic direct-acting valves are used, and the electrolytic cell outlet side A and the detergent tank are used. When one electromagnetic direct acting valve is disposed between the inlet B and one between the electrolytic cell outlet side A and the washing tub inlet C, and when the valve between A and B is open, When the valve between A and C is closed and when the valve between A and B is closed, the flow path is switched by opening and closing the electromagnetic direct acting valve so that the valve between A and C is opened. May be.
If switching of the flow path becomes complicated, a plurality of electromagnetic three-way switching valves 52 or multiple electromagnetic direct acting valves may be employed.

If the electrolytic water drain 54 of the metal pipe is condensed and water droplets adhere to the inside of the housing 11 of the washing machine 10 and there is a possibility that rust or the like may occur, the temperature is kept at the electrolytic water drain 54 or the like to prevent dew condensation. A material (outside air blocking material) or the like may be coated.
In addition, although some residual water is drained from the electrolytic cell 30 by the drainage outlet 37 due to a siphon phenomenon, an electromagnetic direct-acting valve or the like is provided in a part of the electrolytic water drain passage 54, and the electromagnetic direct-acting valve is disposed. What is necessary is just to completely close the electrolytic water drainage channel 54 by opening and closing a valve or the like.
If an impeller-type power generator or the like is provided in a part of the electrolyzed water drain 54, power is generated by the electrolyzed water that is drained to a small extent, and power can be collected, thereby contributing to energy saving.

In a washing machine for washing clothes, the present invention can be applied not only to a vertical type fully automatic washing machine but also to a horizontal (drum) type fully automatic washing machine.
Further, the present invention can be applied not only to a washing machine for washing clothes, but also to a food washing machine for washing cereals and vegetables such as potatoes, a dishwasher for washing dishes and the like.

It is a schematic diagram including a partial sectional view of a washing machine of the present invention. It is the schematic which shows the state of connection of a detergent tank, an electrolytic tank, and a water supply means. It is a perspective view which shows the structure of an electrolytic cell. It is the schematic which shows a water-cooled power supply circuit part.

Explanation of reference numerals

  DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 10 ... The washing machine of one Example of this invention, 11 ... Housing (casing), 12 ... Lid, 13 ... Hanging rod, 14 ... Leg, 20 ... Washing tub (also dehydration tub), 21 ... Outer tub, 22 ... Inner tank, 23 wing-shaped protrusion, 24 stirring blade, 25 electric motor, 26 drain valve, 27 drain pipe, 28 drain hose, 30 electrolytic tank, 31 flat electrode 1, 32 flat electrode 2, 33 ... diaphragm, 34 ... upper case, 35 ... lower case, 36 ... raw water inlet, 37 ... drainage outlet, 38 ... water injection outlet, 40 ... detergent tank, 50 ... water supply means, 51 ... electromagnetic water supply valve, 52 ... Electromagnetic three-way switching valve, 53 ... Piping, 54 ... Electrolyzed water drainage channel, 55 ... Injection pipe, 56 ... Connection hose, 60 ... Bundled wire, 61 ... Bundled wire, 70 ... Control unit of the first embodiment, 71 ... Operation Printed wiring board for 72, 72 operation switch, 73 printed wiring board for power control, 74 semiconductor element 75 ... heat radiating plate and the mounting plate of the semiconductor element, 76 ... power transformer, 77 ... mounting plate, 78 ... switching power supply circuit unit power control printed wiring board having a 79 ... control unit Example 2

Claims (2)

  A washing tub including an electric motor, an outer tub that does not rotate, and an inner tub provided in the outer tub and rotated by the electric motor; a stirring blade provided at an inner bottom of the inner tub and rotated by the electric motor; Raw water such as water, well water, groundwater, etc. is passed through, and a direct current voltage is applied to separate and generate electrolyzed water generated on the cathode side and electrolyzed water generated on the anode side by electrolysis and discharged into piping. An electrolytic bath provided with a plurality of plate-shaped electrodes and a diaphragm, a fixed detergent bath in a housing filled with laundry detergent, an electromagnetic water supply valve, an electromagnetic multi-way switching valve, and piping, and the raw water is Opening / closing of the water supply valve allows water to flow through the electrolytic tank, or switching of the flow path by the multi-way switching valve or the like allows the electrolytic water to flow through the detergent tank, or the dissolved water or the electrolytic water in which the laundry detergent has been dissolved from the detergent tank. The water supply means for injecting water into the washing tub and the open / close combination of the operation switches of the printed wiring board make the power supply possible. In a washing machine including a washing machine, a control unit for controlling the electrolytic cell and the water supply means, a drain valve and a drain pipe in a housing, an electric power is supplied so that a DC voltage applied to the electrolytic cell is supplied from a power transformer. The power transformer of the control unit, which constitutes the circuit and power supply circuit, uses the electrolytic water generated on the anode side, which is drained when a direct voltage is applied to the electrolytic cell, and when the DC voltage is reversely applied to the electrolytic cell. A lime softening type hard water washing machine equipped with a detergent tank, which is of a water-cooling type using electrolyzed water generated on a cathode side drained to enable continuous electrolysis.   In the control unit according to claim 1, a heat radiating means such as a heat radiating plate for radiating heat of a semiconductor element or the like used in a power supply circuit or the like is generated on an anode side which is drained when a DC voltage is positively applied to an electrolytic cell. 2. The continuous electrolysis according to claim 1, wherein the electrolyzed water is water-cooled using electrolyzed water generated on the cathode side which is drained when a DC voltage is reversely applied to the electrolytic cell to enable continuous electrolysis. A lime softening type hard water washing machine with a detergent tank.

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