JP5044597B2 - Washing and drying machine - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a washing / drying machine equipped with a device for discharging mist.

  Conventionally, a washing machine including a mist generating device has been considered (see, for example, Patent Document 1). In this device, the mist generating device generates mist having at least one of a sterilizing action, a deodorizing action, and a soil decomposing action, and sprays the generated mist onto the laundry in the washing tub. .

JP 2005-198860 A

The mist generating device described in Patent Document 1 is configured to generate mist by supplying liquid stored in a tank to a mist generating unit. Therefore, when the amount of liquid in the tank is reduced as the mist is released, it is necessary to supply (replenish) the liquid in the tank. However, this mist generating device is installed inside the casing of the washing machine, and the operation of supplying water into the tank of the mist generating device installed in such a part can reach the part or extend the part to the part. It is not easy to do for the user, and is troublesome.
Here, as a configuration that does not require such work, for example, a configuration in which water from tap water is supplied into the tank via a water supply path can be considered. However, with such a configuration, the structure becomes complicated, the number of parts increases, manufacturability deteriorates, and the cost increases.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above circumstances, and an object of the present invention is to provide a washing / drying machine that can easily supply water for discharging as mist in a device including a device for discharging mist. There is to do.

  The present invention includes a circulation path connected to a washing tub, a blowing means for circulating air in the washing tub through the circulation path, a dehumidification means for cooling and dehumidifying the air flowing in the circulation path, and the circulation In a washing and drying machine provided with heating means for heating the air flowing in the path, the filter is provided in the circulation path and is formed of a porous material having water absorption, water retention and suction characteristics. And a discharge electrode provided so that a distal end protrudes into the circulation path and a porous material having water retention, so as to be in contact with a proximal end portion of the discharge electrode It is formed of a water retaining means that is disposed and supplies the retained water to the discharge electrode, a water storage tank that stores water to be supplied to the discharge electrode, and a porous material having water absorption, water retention, and suction characteristics. It is A water supply means for supplying the water in the water storage tank to the water retention means, and a negative high voltage for the discharge electrode. An electrostatic atomization device formed by unitizing a high voltage application means for applying a voltage to negatively charge the discharge electrode, and the electrostatic atomization device is located further downwind than the filter in the circulation path. It is characterized by being installed detachably.

  According to the washing and drying machine of the present invention, the electrostatic atomization device formed by unitizing the discharge electrode, the water retention means, the water storage tank, the water supply means, and the high voltage application means is provided in a circulation path connected to the washing tub. It is located leeward than the filter and is detachably installed. Thereby, an electrostatic atomizer can be removed and the water for discharge | released as mist from a discharge electrode can be easily supplied to a water storage tank.

The vertical side view which shows one Embodiment of this invention and shows the upper ventilation duct in the state in which the electrostatic atomizer was installed, and its peripheral part The perspective view which shows the upper ventilation duct in the state which removed the electrostatic atomizer, and its peripheral part External perspective view of the washer / dryer Longitudinal side view schematically showing the internal configuration of the washing and drying machine The flowchart which shows the control contents in the case of performing a disinfection course

  Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. FIG. 3 is a perspective view showing the overall appearance of the drum-type washing / drying machine 1. As shown in FIG. 3, the casing 2 constituting the outline of the washing / drying machine 1 has a substantially rectangular box shape whose entire surface is smoothly inclined. A handle 3 is provided for use at times. Further, a tap water supply port 4 and a top plate 5 are provided on the upper surface of the housing 2.

  A substantially circular door 6 is provided at the center of the front surface of the housing 2, and an operation button 7 for opening the door 6 is provided. Further, an operation panel 8 (corresponding to a selection unit) and a detergent input unit 9 are provided on the upper front surface of the housing 2. The operation panel 8 is connected to a control device 10 (refer to FIG. 4, corresponding to notification control means and control means) provided on the back side of the housing 2. In addition, the operation panel 8 is provided with a liquid crystal display unit 8a (corresponding to notification means) for displaying various information (detergent amount, operation time, etc.), and various operation courses including a sterilization course described later. A switch for selecting and various switches for starting and stopping the operation are provided. The control device 10 is composed mainly of a microcomputer and includes a ROM, a RAM, and the like, and controls the overall operation of the washing / drying machine 1 based on various input signals and pre-stored control programs. It has become.

  A filter housing portion 11 in which a lint filter (not shown) is detachably disposed is provided at the lower portion of the housing 2. This lint filter captures foreign matter (lint etc.) contained in the water in the circulation channel (not shown) for circulating the water in the water tank 12 and the water in the water tank 12 (see FIG. 4). It is.

  Next, the internal configuration of the washing / drying machine 1 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 4 is a longitudinal side view schematically showing the internal configuration of the washing / drying machine 1. As shown in FIG. 4, a water tank 12 (corresponding to a washing tub) is disposed inside the housing 2, and a drum 13 is disposed inside the water tank 12.

  Both the water tank 12 and the drum 13 have a bottomed cylindrical shape with one end closed, and have openings 14 and 15 at the front end face (left side in FIG. 4). The opening 15 of the drum 13 is surrounded by the opening 14 of the water tank 12, and the opening 14 of the water tank 12 is connected to the opening 16 formed on the front surface of the housing 2 by a bellows 17. The above-described door 6 is provided in the opening 16 so as to be openable and closable. As a result, the door for opening and closing the laundry (clothing, etc.) including the openings 14, 15, and 16 is opened and closed by the door 6. It has become so.

  For example, a liquid-sealed rotary balancer 18 is provided around the opening 15 of the drum 13, and a plurality of holes 19 are formed in almost the entire area of the peripheral side portion (body portion) of the drum 13. (Only a part is shown). These holes 19 function as water holes during the washing process, during the rinsing process, and during the dewatering process, and function as ventilation holes during the drying process. A plurality of baffles 20 project from the inner surface of the peripheral side portion of the drum 13, and a plurality of hot air inlets 21 are arranged on the rear end surface portion of the drum 13 by an annular arrangement concentric with the central axis. Is formed.

  The water tank 12 has a warm air outlet 22 at the upper part of the front side portion of the peripheral side part (a position facing the front side part of the peripheral side part of the drum 13), and the hot air inlet 21 at the upper part of the rear end surface part. The hot air inlet 23 is provided so as to face the rotation trajectory.

  A water supply case 25 is connected to the upper part of the water tank 12 via a water supply hose 24. A tap water supply port 4 is connected to the water supply case 25 via a water supply valve 26. Thus, tap water from the tap water supply port 4 is supplied into the water tank 12 through the water supply valve 26, the water supply case 25, and the water supply hose 24. In the water supply case 25, detergents (detergent, softener, bleaching agent, etc.) are introduced through the detergent introduction unit 9, and these detergents are put in the water tank 12 together with tap water. It comes to be supplied.

  A drain outlet 27 is formed at the rearmost part of the bottom of the water tank 12, and a drain hose 28 connected to the outside of the washing / drying machine 1 is connected to the drain outlet 27. A drain valve 29 is provided in the middle of the drain hose 28. As a result, the water in the water tank 12 can be drained outside the apparatus.

  A washing machine motor 30 is attached to the back surface of the water tank 12, and a rotating shaft 30 a thereof protrudes into the water tank 12. The center portion of the rear end surface portion of the drum 13 is attached to the tip portion of the rotating shaft 30a. Thereby, the drum 13 is coaxially supported by the water tank 12 so that rotation is possible. That is, the washing / drying machine 1 is configured to directly rotate and drive the drum 13 by the washing machine motor 30, and adopts a direct drive system using the washing machine motor 30. Further, in this case, the washing machine motor 30 is constituted by an outer rotor type brushless DC motor.

  The aquarium 12 is elastically supported by the housing 2 by a plurality of suspensions 31 (only one is shown), and the support form is a horizontal axis in which the axial direction of the aquarium 12 is the front-rear direction, and the front rises It is inclined. Therefore, the drum 13 supported in the water tank 12 as described above has the same configuration.

  A base plate 32 is disposed below the water tank 12 (on the bottom surface of the housing 2), and a lower ventilation duct 33 extending in the front-rear direction is disposed on the base plate 32. The lower ventilation duct 33 has an air suction port 33a at the upper part of the front end, and the air suction port 33a is disposed in the front-rear direction disposed in the upper part of the water tank 12 via the connection hose 34 and the return air duct 35. Is connected to the front end portion of the upper ventilation duct 36 extending in the direction. The rear end portion of the upper ventilation duct 36 is connected to the hot air outlet 22 of the water tank 12 through a connection duct 37. The return air duct 35 is piped in the vertical direction so as to bypass the side of the opening 14 of the water tank 12.

  A casing 39 of a circulation fan 38 is connected to the rear end of the lower ventilation duct 33, and an outlet 40 of the casing 39 is connected to the temperature of the water tank 12 via a connection hose 41 and an air supply duct 42. It is connected to the wind inlet 23. The air supply duct 42 is piped so as to bypass the side portion of the washing machine motor 30. Here, the water tank 12 is connected in communication with the connecting duct 37, the upper ventilation duct 36, the return air duct 35, the connection hose 34, the lower ventilation duct 33, the casing 39 of the circulation fan 38, the connection hose 41, and the air supply duct 42. A circulation air passage 43 (corresponding to a circulation route) is formed.

  In this case, the circulation fan 38 is constituted by a centrifugal fan. That is, the circulation fan 38 has a centrifugal impeller 44 inside the casing 39 and a motor 45 that rotates the centrifugal impeller 44 outside the casing 39. The circulation blower 38 functions as a blower that circulates the air in the water tank 12 (in the drum 13) through the circulation air passage 43 as indicated by solid arrows and broken arrows in FIG.

  An evaporator 46 (corresponding to dehumidifying means) is arranged at the front part and a condenser 47 (corresponding to heating means) is arranged at the rear part inside the lower ventilation duct 33 in the circulation air passage 43. Although neither the evaporator 46 nor the condenser 47 is shown in detail in detail, the evaporator 46 and the condenser 47 are of a finned tube type in which a large number of heat transfer fins are arranged at a fine pitch, and are excellent in heat exchange. The air flowing in the lower ventilation duct 33 (see the solid line arrow shown in FIG. 4) passes between the fins.

  The evaporator 46 and the condenser 47 constitute a heat pump 49 together with a compressor 48 and a flow rate control valve (for example, an electronic control valve) not shown. In the heat pump 49, a compressor 48, a condenser 47, a flow rate control valve, and an evaporator 46 are cycle-connected in this order by a refrigerant circulation pipe, and a refrigeration cycle is configured. The drive of the compressor 48 and the flow control valve is controlled by the control device 10.

  As described above, the control device 10 operates the circulation fan 38 to circulate the air in the water tank 12 through the circulation air passage 43. Moreover, the control apparatus 10 circulates the refrigerant | coolant of a refrigerating cycle by operating the compressor 48 and a flow control valve. The air flowing in the circulation air passage 43 is cooled and dehumidified by the evaporator 46 and heated by the condenser 47 to be warmed. Thereby, the control apparatus 10 is comprised so that the drying operation which operates the ventilation fan 38, the evaporator 46, and the condenser 47, and supplies warm air in the water tank 12 can be performed.

  The circulation air passage 43 has a front portion of the lower ventilation duct 33 (a portion between the air inlet 33a and the evaporator 46) for detecting the temperature of the air blown from the water tank 12 into the circulation air passage 43. A temperature sensor 50 is provided. Further, a temperature sensor for detecting the temperature of the air blown into the water tank 12 from the circulation air passage 43 at the upstream end of the air supply duct 42 in the circulation air passage 43 (in the vicinity of the hot air inlet 23). 51 is disposed. These temperature sensors 50 and 51 are composed of, for example, a thermistor and are connected to the control device 10 respectively, and serve as a freeze detection means of the present invention.

  In the washing / drying machine 1 having such a configuration, an electrostatic atomizing device 52 is provided as a device for discharging mist in the upper ventilation duct 36 constituting the middle portion of the circulation air passage 43. The electrostatic atomizer 52 is detachable in the upper ventilation duct 36 by being positioned leeward than the filters (first filter 55 and second filter 56 described later) provided in the upper ventilation duct 36. Is installed. In the present embodiment, the rear side portion (the right side portion in FIG. 4) of the upper ventilation duct 36 into which the warm air is blown up, and the front side portion (the left side portion in FIG. 4) of the upper ventilation duct 36 from which the warm air is blown out. ) Is leeward.

  Next, configurations of the upper ventilation duct 36 and the electrostatic atomizer 52 will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 and 2. FIG. 1 is a vertical side view showing the upper ventilation duct 36 and its peripheral portion in a state where the electrostatic atomizer 52 is installed, and FIG. 2 is an upper ventilation duct in a state where the electrostatic atomizer 52 is removed. It is a perspective view which shows 36 and its peripheral part.

  The upper ventilation duct 36 is made of an insulating material (for example, a resin such as polypropylene), and is detachably provided on the duct main body 53 having both the front and rear ends and the upper portion opened, and the upper opening of the duct main body 53. And a rectangular lid plate 54 formed. A first filter 55 is integrally provided in the duct main body 53 and is fixed inside the upper ventilation duct 36. Further, a second filter 56 is detachably installed in the duct body 53 so as to be located on the windward side (water tank 12 side) of the first filter 55. The first filter 55 and the second filter 56 are for capturing foreign matter (lint, dust, etc.) contained in the air flowing in the circulation air passage 43.

  At the bottom of the duct main body 53 (the bottom of the upper ventilation duct 36), there is an installation portion 57 that is located near the leeward side of the first filter 55 and on which the electrostatic atomizer 52 is detachably installed. Is provided. As shown in FIG. 2, the installation portion 57 is opened in a square shape as a whole, and has a stepped portion 57a on the windward side inside thereof. Further, the installation portion 57 is located on the leeward side of the stepped portion 57a, and has a concave portion 58 opened in a square shape and recessed downward, and a pair of water level sensor plugs opened in a circular shape and extending in the vertical direction. A mouth 59 is provided.

  At the center of the upper surface of the stepped portion 57a, there is provided a conductive rod insertion port 60 that opens in a circular shape and extends in the vertical direction, and a conductive rod terminal 61 is disposed at the lower end portion inside. . The conductive rod terminal 61 is connected to the negative electrode (for example, −6 kV) of the high voltage power supply 62 of the power supply circuit (not shown) of the washing / drying machine 1. In the recess 58, a reed switch 63 (see FIG. 1, corresponding to installation detecting means) connected to the control device 10 is disposed. A water level sensor terminal (not shown) is disposed at the lower end of the pair of water level sensor insertion ports 59. The terminal for the water level sensor is connected to the control device 10.

  On the other hand, the cover plate 54 is detachably disposed on the upper surface of the washing / drying machine 1 and constitutes an upper part of the upper ventilation duct 36 and constitutes a part of the top plate 5 of the washing / drying machine 1 (see FIG. 3). . A rectangular outlet opening 54 a is provided at the rear of the lid plate 54, and a rectangular opening 54 b (corresponding to an outside air inlet) is provided at the front of the lid board 54. A filter 64 is disposed at the outlet 54a, and a filter 65 is disposed at the inlet 54b.

  As shown in FIG. 1, in a state where the cover plate 54 is attached to the duct body 53 (a state where the upper ventilation duct 36 is formed), the air outlet 54 a (the filter 64) includes the first filter 55 and the first filter 55. 2 is located on the windward side (right side in FIG. 1), and the inlet 54b (filter 65) is located on the leeward side (left side in FIG. 1) of the first filter 55 and the second filter 56. It is supposed to be. Therefore, a part of the air flowing in the circulation air passage 43 (the upwind portion of the upper ventilation duct 36) is blown out of the washing / drying machine 1 from the outlet 54a (see the broken arrow A in FIG. 1). On the other hand, air (outside air) outside the washing / drying machine 1 is blown into the circulation air passage 43 (the leeward portion of the upper ventilation duct 36) from the blow-in port 54b (see the broken line arrow B in FIG. 1). ).

  The electrostatic atomizer 52 includes a case 66 constituting an outer shell, a first water retaining material 67 (corresponding to water retaining means), a second water retaining material 68, a water absorbing member 69 (corresponding to water supplying means), a plurality (see FIG. 1 shows four discharge electrodes 70, conductive rods 71 (corresponding to high voltage application means), and the like.

  The case 66 is made of an insulating material (for example, a resin such as polypropylene). As shown in FIG. 2, the case 66 has a rectangular container-shaped water storage tank portion 72 (corresponding to a water storage tank) having an open top, It is comprised from the rectangular hollow cover member 73 provided in the opening part of the water storage tank part 72 so that attachment or detachment was possible. In this case, the lid member 73 can be attached to and detached from the water storage tank portion 72 by a configuration in which the engagement hole portion 73 a provided in the lid member 73 is engaged with the engagement claw portion 72 a provided in the water storage tank portion 72. It has become. The lid member 73 is provided with a water supply port 73b that penetrates the lid member 73 up and down. The water supply port 73b is opened and closed by a lid (not shown).

  As shown in FIG. 1, the first water retaining material 67 and the second water retaining material 68 are disposed inside the lid member 73. The first water retaining material 67 is formed of a porous material (for example, urethane sponge) having water retaining capacity, and is accommodated in the lower part in the lid member 73. The second water retaining material 68 is formed by mixing a porous material (for example, urethane sponge) having water retaining capacity with a conductive substance (for example, graphite), and is formed in the upper part (first first) in the lid member 73. It is accommodated in (above the water retaining material 67). The graphite mixed as a conductive substance in the second water retention material 68 is for ensuring the conductivity and hardness of the second water retention material 68.

  The water-absorbing member 69 is formed of a porous material (for example, a felt material made of fibrous polyester) having water absorption, water retention and water uptake characteristics, and has a pin shape in which both upper and lower ends are pointed. There is no. The base end portion of the water absorbing member 69 (the lower end portion in FIG. 1, which corresponds to the portion in contact with the water in the water storage tank portion 72) is attached to the water storage tank portion 72 so as to cover the water absorption member 69 from below. It extends inward and comes into contact with the water stored in the water storage tank portion 72. On the other hand, the tip of the water absorbing member 69 (the upper end in FIG. 1, which corresponds to the portion that contacts the first water retaining material 67) is inserted into the first water retaining material 67 from below in the lid member 73. Has been inserted. Thereby, the front end side portion of the water absorbing member 69 is covered with the first water retention material 67 and is in contact with the first water retention material 67.

  The discharge electrode 70 is formed of a porous material (for example, a felt material made of fibrous polyester) having water absorption properties, water retention properties, and water absorption properties. Part) has a sharp pin shape. The base end portions (lower end portions in FIG. 1) of the plurality of discharge electrodes 70 are inserted into the first water retaining material 67 from above in the lid member 73. Thereby, the lower end side part of the some discharge electrode 70 is in the state covered with the 1st water retention material 67, respectively.

  The plurality of discharge electrodes 70 are disposed so as to penetrate the second water retaining material 68 in the lid member 73 and the upper surface portion of the lid member 73. Accordingly, these discharge electrodes 70 are mainly fixed by the upper surface portion of the lid member 73 and are supplementarily fixed by the second water retaining material 68 having hardness. These discharge electrodes 70 are arranged so that the respective leading ends thereof protrude into the circulation air passage 43 (upper ventilation duct 36 portion). These discharge electrodes 70 are arranged concentrically around the water absorbing member 69.

  The water storage tank portion 72 communicates with the outside through the water supply port 73b of the lid member 73 in a state where the lid member 73 is attached. Therefore, water can be supplied into the water storage tank portion 72 from the water supply port 73b with the lid member 73 attached. Moreover, the water storage tank part 72 will be in the state which the upper part opened by the cover member 73 being removed. Thereby, water can be supplied into the water storage tank part 72 and the inside of the water storage tank part 72 can be cleaned. In this case, the amount of water that can be stored in the water storage tank 72 is set to less than 100 cc.

  A magnet 74 and a water level sensor 75 (corresponding to water detection means) are disposed at the bottom of the water storage tank 72. The magnet 74 is disposed inside the storage portion 72 b that protrudes downward in a square shape outside the water storage tank portion 72. The storage portion 72 b is adapted to fit into the recess 58 in a state where the electrostatic atomizer 52 is attached to the installation portion 57. Therefore, the reed switch 63 is turned on when the electrostatic atomizer 52 is attached to the installation portion 57 and the magnet 74 is turned on when the electrostatic atomizer 52 is attached to the installation portion 57. Is turned off when the magnet 74 is separated. When the reed switch 63 is turned on, the control device 10 determines that the electrostatic atomizer 52 is installed in the circulation air passage 43 (installation unit 57).

  The water level sensor 75 is composed of a pair of water level detection electrodes 75a, and these water level detection electrodes 75a are covered with a covering member 75b made of an insulating material in the entire peripheral side portion where the upper and lower ends thereof are left. And the upper end part of these water level detection electrodes 75a is exposed in the water storage tank part 72, and the lower end part of the water level detection electrode 75a is for the water level sensor in the insertion port 59 for the water level sensor (see FIG. 2). By contacting the terminal, the water level sensor 75 is connected to the control device 10.

  The upper end side portion (the portion extending into the water storage tank portion 72) of the water level detection electrode 75a is covered with the covering member 75b up to a position substantially the same height as the lowermost end of the water absorbing member 69. Therefore, the water level sensor 75 is turned on when the water level in the water storage tank portion 72 is higher than the height of the upper end of the covering member 75b (the height of the lowermost end portion of the water absorbing member 69). When the water level of the water is lower than the height of the upper end of the covering member 75b, it is turned off. When the water level sensor 75 is turned off, the control device 10 determines that there is no predetermined amount of water in the water storage tank portion 72 (in this case, the amount of water whose water level is substantially the same as the lowest end of the water absorbing member 69). It is supposed to be.

  The water stored in the water storage tank portion 72 is absorbed (sucked up) via a water absorption member 69 extending into the water storage tank portion 72 and supplied to the first water retention material 67. Then, the water supplied to the first water retention material 67 permeates the first water retention material 67, and accordingly, water is supplied to the discharge electrode 70. Since the discharge electrode 70 is arranged concentrically around the water absorption member 69, the water penetrating from the water absorption member 69 into the first water retaining material 67 is evenly supplied to the surrounding discharge electrodes 70. It is like that. Further, part of the water contained in the first water retention material 67 penetrates into the second water retention material 68, so that water is also supplied from the second water retention material 68 to the discharge electrode 70. It has become.

  The conductive rod 71 has a distal end portion (the upper end portion in FIG. 1) penetrating through the first water retaining material 67 in the lid member 73 and is fixed to the second water retaining material 68 having rigidity. In addition, outside of the case 66, the conductive rod 71 is covered with a covering member 71a made of an insulating material over the entire peripheral side where the base end (the lower end in FIG. 1) remains. In a state where the electrostatic atomizer 52 is attached to the installation portion 57, the conductive rod 71 is inserted into the conductive rod insertion port 60 (see FIG. 2), and its base end (lower end) is for the conductive rod. It comes in contact with the terminal 61. Thereby, a negative high voltage from the high voltage power supply 62 is applied to the discharge electrode 70 via the conductive rod terminal 61, the conductive rod 71, the first water retaining material 67 containing water, and the second water retaining material 68. The discharge electrode 70 is negatively charged. That is, the conductive rod 71 functions as a high voltage applying means of the present invention that applies a negative high voltage from the high voltage power supply 62 to the discharge electrode 70 to negatively charge the discharge electrode 70.

  In this case, the casing 2 of the washing / drying machine 1 is grounded via a ground wire (not shown) or the like, and the casing 2 thus grounded (opposite the discharge electrode 70). And a member provided far away from the discharge electrode 70) functions as a counter electrode corresponding to the negatively charged discharge electrode 70.

  The first water retaining material 67, the second water retaining material 68, the water absorbing member 69, the plurality of discharge electrodes 70, and the conductive rod 71 described above are unitized by being fixedly disposed on the lid member 73, thereby The discharge unit 76 is configured. And by attaching the water storage tank part 72 to this discharge part unit 76 so that attachment or detachment is possible, the discharge part unit 76 (the 1st water retention material 67, the 2nd water retention material 68, the water absorption member 69, the some discharge electrode 70, conductive) An electrostatic atomizer 52 is formed by unitizing the rod 71) and the water storage tank 72.

  And the discharge electrode cover 77 which covers the some discharge electrode 70 which protrudes in the inside of the circulation air path 43 from upper direction is attached to the upper part of this electrostatic atomizer 52 (discharge part unit 76) so that attachment or detachment is possible. The discharge electrode cover 77 is made of an insulating material (for example, a resin such as polypropylene), and a net-like portion 77a having a large number of holes is integrally provided on a peripheral side surface and an upper surface thereof. The mesh portion 77a has a function of preventing the user from touching the discharge electrode 70 while allowing the mist discharged from the discharge electrode 70 to be discharged into the circulation air path 43, and to a slight extent, the circulation air path 43. It plays a function of capturing foreign substances (lint, dust, etc.) contained in the air flowing inside.

  In the washing / drying machine 1 including the electrostatic atomizer 52 configured as described above, the control device 10 operates the electrostatic atomizer 52 to generate mist, and the mist flows through the circulation air passage 43. The sterilization course supplied into the water tank 12 together with air is configured to be executable. Here, the contents of control by the control device 10 when executing this sterilization course will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing the control contents.

  When the sterilization course is selected via the operation panel 8, the control device 10 determines whether or not the electrostatic atomizer 52 is installed in the circulation air passage 43 prior to the start of the sterilization course (step S1), it is determined whether or not there is a predetermined amount of water in the water storage tank unit 72 (step S2), and whether or not the water in the water storage tank unit 72 is frozen (step S3).

  In step S1, the control device 10 determines whether or not the electrostatic atomizer 52 is installed in the circulation air passage 43 based on the input signal from the reed switch 63 (installation detection means). In this case, the control device 10 determines that the electrostatic atomizer 52 is installed in the circulation air passage 43 if the reed switch 63 is on (YES), and if the reed switch 63 is off. Then, it is determined that the electrostatic atomizer 52 is not installed in the circulation air passage 43 (NO).

  In step S <b> 2, the control device 10 determines whether or not there is a predetermined amount of water in the water storage tank unit 72 based on an input signal from the water level sensor 75 (water detection means). In this case, if the water level sensor 75 is on, the control device 10 determines that there is a predetermined amount of water in the water tank unit 72 (YES), and if the water level sensor 75 is off, the water tank unit It is determined that there is no predetermined amount of water in 72 (NO).

  In step S3, the control device 10 determines whether or not the water in the water storage tank unit 72 is frozen based on the input signals from the temperature sensors 50 and 51 (freezing detection means). In this case, if the temperature detected by the temperature sensors 50 and 51 exceeds 0 ° C., the control device 10 determines that the water in the water storage tank 72 is not frozen (YES), and the temperature sensors 50 and 51 If the detected temperature is 0 ° C. or lower, it is determined that the water in the water storage tank 72 is frozen (NO).

  In the control device 10, the electrostatic atomizer 52 is installed in the circulation air passage 43 (“YES” in step S1), and there is a predetermined amount of water in the water storage tank portion 72 (in step S2). If it is determined that the water in the water storage tank unit 72 is not frozen (“YES” in step S3), the process proceeds to step S4 to start the sterilization course.

  In this sterilization course, the control device 10 energizes the conductive rod 71 from the high voltage power supply 62 to operate the electrostatic atomizer 52. Thereby, a negative high voltage from the high voltage power source 62 is applied to the discharge electrode 70 via the conductive rod 71, the first water retention material 67, and the second water retention material 68, and the discharge electrode 70 is negatively charged. To do. At this time, electric charges concentrate on the tip of the discharge electrode 70, and energy exceeding the surface tension is given to the water contained in the tip. As a result, the water at the tip of the discharge electrode 70 is split (Rayleigh split) and discharged into the circulation air passage 43 in the form of a mist (electrostatic atomization phenomenon). Here, the water particles released in the form of mist are negatively charged and contain hydroxy radicals generated by the energy. Accordingly, hydroxy radicals having a strong oxidizing action are supplied into the water tank 12 together with the air (warm air) flowing through the circulation air passage 43, so that the laundry (clothing, etc.) in the water tank 12 is sterilized and deodorized. Is possible.

  In this case, the counter electrode corresponding to the discharge electrode 70 negatively charged by the negative high voltage from the high voltage power supply 62 is not provided in the vicinity of the discharge electrode 70. Therefore, the discharge from the discharge electrode 70 becomes very gentle, there is no corona discharge, and harmful gases (such as ozone and nitrogen oxides generated by oxidizing the nitrogen in the air, nitrous acid, Generation of nitric acid, etc.) can be suppressed.

  When it is determined in step S1 that the electrostatic atomizer 52 is not installed in the circulation air passage 43 (NO), the control device 10 proceeds to step S5 and performs “static” via the liquid crystal display unit 8a. Displaying (notifying) that the electroatomizer 52 is not installed (notification means, notification control means).

  Further, when it is determined in step S2 that there is no predetermined amount of water in the water storage tank unit 72 (NO), the control device 10 proceeds to step S6, and the “water storage tank unit is set via the liquid crystal display unit 8a. "Insufficient water in 72" is displayed (notification) (notification means, notification control means).

  Moreover, when it is judged in the said step S3 that the water in the water storage tank part 72 has frozen (NO), the control apparatus 10 transfers to step S7, without operating the electrostatic atomizer 52, The drying operation is started (control means). And after performing the drying operation for the predetermined time, the control apparatus 10 transfers to step S4, operates the electrostatic atomizer 52, and starts the disinfection course (control means). That is, the control apparatus 10 performs the sterilization course after melting the ice (frozen water) in the water storage tank unit 72 by the heat of the warm air accompanying the drying operation. In this case, the predetermined time for executing the drying operation in step S7 is that the detected temperature of the circulating air in the circulating air passage 43 based on the input signals from the temperature sensors 50 and 51 is a predetermined temperature (for example, 5 ° C.) or more. It is set to the time until.

  As described above, according to the present embodiment, the discharge unit 76 (the first water retaining material 67, the second water retaining material 68, the water absorbing member 69, the plurality of discharge electrodes 70, the conductive rod 71), and the water storage The electrostatic atomizer 52 formed by unitizing the tank portion 72 is detachably installed in the circulation air passage 43 so as to be positioned leeward than the first filter 55 and the second filter 56. Thereby, the electrostatic atomizer 52 is removed from the washing / drying machine 1 (circulation air passage 43), and water for discharging as a mist from the discharge electrode 70 can be easily supplied (supplemented) to the water storage tank portion 72. it can.

  Moreover, the upper ventilation duct 36 in which the electrostatic atomizer 52 is detachably installed is disposed in the upper part of the water tank 12 in the housing 2 and constitutes the upper part of the upper ventilation duct 36. The lid plate 54 can be easily removed from the upper part of the washing / drying machine 1. Thereby, the electrostatic atomizer 52 itself can also be easily removed from the upper part of the washing dryer 1.

  In addition, the electrostatic atomizer 52 provided in such a removable manner further comprises a detachable discharge unit 76 and a water storage tank 72. Therefore, the discharge unit 76 and the water tank 72 can be separated and the discharge unit 76 and the water tank 72 can be easily cleaned.

  In addition, since the electrostatic atomizer 52 is installed in the circulation air passage 43 so as to be located leeward than the first filter 55 and the second filter 56, the electrostatic atomizer 52 (particularly the discharge electrode 70). It is possible to prevent foreign matters (lint, dust, etc.) contained in the air flowing in the circulation air passage 43 from adhering to the portion). Thereby, the fall of the mist discharge | release function of the discharge electrode 70 resulting from adhesion of such a foreign material can be suppressed.

In addition, the water from the water supply valve 26 is not supplied into the water storage tank unit 72 via the water supply path, but the electrostatic atomizer 52 is removed from the washing / drying machine 1 and water is supplied into the water storage tank unit 72. The configuration. That is, since the water supply (replenishment of water) to the water storage tank unit 72 is performed in a state of being completely separated and independent from the water supply path including the water supply valve 26, when water is supplied to the water storage tank unit 72, There is no possibility that a negative high voltage from the high-voltage power supply 62 is applied to the water supply valve 26 and, consequently, a faucet (not shown) connected to the water supply valve 26, and safe water supply can be performed.
Further, it is not necessary to provide a structure for supplying water from the water supply valve 26 into the water storage tank portion 72, so that the structure is complicated, the number of parts is increased, the productivity is deteriorated, and the cost is not increased.

  In addition, when the sterilization course is selected via the operation panel 8 and the control device 10 does not detect that the electrostatic atomizer 52 is installed by the reed switch 63, the control device 10 displays the liquid crystal display unit 8a. When the water level sensor 75 detects that there is no predetermined amount of water, the liquid crystal display unit 8a is displayed. To notify that “the water in the water storage tank 72 is insufficient”. Thereby, the user can be informed of a problem that affects the normal operation of the electrostatic atomizer 52, and the electrostatic atomizer 52 can be reliably operated in the sterilization course.

  Further, the control device 10 is configured not to operate the electrostatic atomizer 52 when the temperature sensors 50 and 51 detect freezing of water in the water storage tank unit 72. In this case, the drying operation is performed. Is performed for a predetermined time, and then the electrostatic atomizer 52 is operated. Thereby, the malfunction that mist is not discharged | emitted by freezing of water despite operating the electrostatic atomizer 52 can be avoided.

  Further, an inlet 54b for blowing outside air into the circulation air passage 43 is provided in the vicinity of the installation portion of the electrostatic atomizer 52 (in this case, the leeward side portion of the upper ventilation duct 36). Therefore, outside air having a temperature lower than that of the circulating air flowing in the circulating air passage 43 is blown into the circulating air passage 43, so that the heat of the hot air can be prevented from being generated in the circulating air passage 43. As a result, drying of the discharge electrode 70 (particularly the portion protruding into the circulation air passage 43) is prevented, and a decrease in the mist emission function from the discharge electrode 70 can be suppressed.

  Corresponding to the air inlet 54 b, an air outlet 54 a for blowing a part of the circulating air flowing in the circulation air passage 43 to the outside of the washing / drying machine 1 is provided in the windward side portion of the upper ventilation duct 36. Therefore, the high-temperature circulating air flowing through the circulation air passage 43 is appropriately discharged from the circulation air passage 43, and the temperature rise in the circulation air passage 43 can be suppressed. In addition, it is possible to make it easier to blow outside air from the blow-in port 54b as much of the circulating air flowing through the circulation air passage 43 is discharged from the blow-out port 54a. As a result, drying of the discharge electrode 70 and, in turn, deterioration of the mist emission function from the discharge electrode 70 can be further suppressed.

The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment, and can be modified or expanded as follows.
As the porous material forming the discharge electrode 70, a porous ceramic material, a porous metal material, or the like may be used.
The discharge electrode 70 is not limited to a shape having a pointed tip, and may be, for example, a shape in which the tip is rounded into a smooth hemisphere.
You may comprise so that the base end part of the discharge electrode 70 may be extended in the water storage tank part 72, and the function as a water supply means may also be performed.

  The water-absorbing member 69 is not covered with the first water-retaining material 67, but penetrates the second water-retaining material 68 and the upper surface portion of the lid member 73 in the same manner as the discharge electrode 70. Then, it may be protruded into the circulation air passage 43. In this case, the water absorbing member functions as a water supply means for supplying water in the water storage tank portion 72 to the first water retaining material 67 and also functions as a discharge electrode for discharging mist.

  By sharpening the base end portion of the water absorbing member 69 (the portion that contacts the water in the water storage tank portion 72), foreign matters (such as dust) contained in the water in the water storage tank portion 72 are sucked into the water absorbing member 69. This makes it difficult to prevent the water absorbing performance of the water absorbing member 69 from being lowered. However, the shape of the base end portion of the water absorbing member 69 is not limited to this, and may be a flat shape, for example.

  Moreover, the water absorption member 69 is not restricted to what extends in the up-down direction as shown in FIG. For example, when the water storage tank unit 72 is detachably provided on the side of the discharge unit 76, the water absorbing member contacts the first water retaining material 67 in the discharge unit 76 and the water in the water storage tank unit 72. As such, the water absorbing member may be provided in the lateral direction.

As a counter electrode corresponding to the discharge electrode 70 which is negatively charged by the high voltage applying means, a grounding body may be provided at a position not facing the discharge electrode 70 and away from the discharge electrode 70.
The amount of water that can be stored in the water storage tank unit 72 can be changed as appropriate, for example, by changing the size, shape, etc. of the water storage tank unit 72.

  The water level (predetermined amount) in the water storage tank portion 72 that can be detected by the water level sensor 75 is, for example, a protruding amount of the water level sensor 75 in the water storage tank portion 72 or a covering member 75b that covers the peripheral side portion of the water level sensor 75. By changing the height of the upper end of the plate, it can be changed as appropriate.

  The electrostatic atomizer 52 can be installed in an arbitrary portion of the circulation air passage 43 as long as it is leeward than the filters 55 and 56. However, as shown in this embodiment, the circulation air passage 52 is provided. It is desirable to detachably install in a part of 43 located in the upper part of the water tank 12 or to detachably install in a part of the circulating air passage 43 located in the front part of the water tank 12. This is because, according to such a configuration, the electrostatic atomizer 52 can be easily attached / detached from the top or front of the washing / drying machine 1 where the user can easily reach out.

  The notification means is not limited to the configuration for displaying via the liquid crystal display unit 8a, and may be configured to be notified by a warning sound such as a buzzer or a sound such as a speaker.

The discharge electrode 70 may carry platinum nanocolloid.
A disinfectant may be installed in the water storage tank unit 51.
For example, the first water retaining material 67 may be formed of a fibrous ion exchange resin, or the ion exchange resin may be installed in the water storage tank portion 72. In this case, a conductive material (for example, carbon fiber) may be mixed with the discharge electrode 70.

  The present invention is applicable not only to the washing / drying machine 1 having the heat pump 49 in the circulation air passage 43 but also to the heater type washing / drying machine having a heater and a water-cooled heat exchanger in the circulation air passage. Can do. The present invention can also be applied to a dryer that does not have a washing function.

  In the drawings, 1 is a washing / drying machine, 8 is an operation panel (selection means), 8a is a liquid crystal display (notification means), 10 is a control device (notification control means, control means), 12 is a water tub (washing tub), 38 Is a circulation fan (air blowing means), 43 is a circulation air path (circulation path), 46 is an evaporator (dehumidification means), 47 is a condenser (heating means), 50 and 51 are temperature sensors (freezing detection means), 52 Is an electrostatic atomizer, 54b is an inlet (outside air inlet), 55 is a first filter (filter), 56 is a second filter (filter), 63 is a reed switch (installation detection means), and 67 is a first filter. 1 is a water retention member (water retention means), 69 is a water absorption member (water supply means), 70 is a discharge electrode, 71 is a conductive rod (high voltage application means), 72 is a water storage tank section (water storage tank), and 75 is a water level sensor ( Water detection means).

Claims (6)

A circulation path connected to the washing tub, a blowing means for circulating the air in the washing tub through the circulation path, a dehumidifying means for cooling and dehumidifying the air flowing in the circulation path, and a flow in the circulation path In a washing and drying machine provided with a heating means for heating air,
A filter provided in the circulation path;
It is formed of a porous material having water absorption, water retention and wicking characteristics, and a discharge electrode provided so that a tip portion projects into the circulation path, and a porous material having water retention A water retaining means that is formed so as to be in contact with a base end portion of the discharge electrode and supplies the retained water to the discharge electrode, and stores water to be supplied to the discharge electrode A water storage tank, formed of a porous material having water absorption, water retention and suction properties, and having a portion in contact with the water retention means and a portion in contact with water in the water storage tank, Electrostatic fog formed by unitizing water supply means for supplying water in the water storage tank to the water retention means and high voltage application means for applying a negative high voltage to the discharge electrode to negatively charge the discharge electrode And a device for
The washing / drying machine, wherein the electrostatic atomizer is detachably installed in the circulation path so as to be located leeward of the filter. Installation detecting means for detecting that the electrostatic atomizer is installed in the circulation path;
Selection means capable of selecting an operation course for operating the electrostatic atomizer;
Notification means;
A notification control means for controlling the operation of the notification means,
The notification control means, when an operation course for operating the electrostatic atomizer is selected via the selection means, the installation detection means does not detect that the electrostatic atomizer is installed. The washing / drying machine according to claim 1, wherein a notification is made that the electrostatic atomizer is not installed via the notification means. Water detection means for detecting the presence or absence of a predetermined amount of water in the water storage tank;
Selection means capable of selecting an operation course for operating the electrostatic atomizer;
Notification means;
A notification control means for controlling the operation of the notification means,
The notification control means detects that the predetermined amount of water is not in the water storage tank by the water detection means when an operation course for operating the electrostatic atomizer is selected via the selection means. The washing / drying machine according to claim 1, wherein when the operation is performed, the fact that the water in the water storage tank is insufficient is notified via the notification means. Freezing detection means for detecting freezing of water in the water storage tank;
Control means for controlling the operation of the electrostatic atomizer,
The said control means is comprised so that the said electrostatic atomizer may not be operated when the freezing of the water in the said storage tank is detected by the said freezing detection means. Item 4. The washing dryer according to any one of Items 3 to 4.   The control means operates the air blowing means, the dehumidifying means, and the heating means to supply hot air into the washing tub when the freezing detection means detects freezing of the water in the water storage tank. The washing and drying machine according to claim 4, wherein the electrostatic atomizer is operated after a drying operation is performed for a predetermined time.   The washing / drying machine according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein an outside air inlet for blowing outside air into the circulation path is provided in the vicinity of an installation portion of the electrostatic atomizer.

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