JP6135978B2 - Washing machine - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a washing machine for washing clothes.

  A washing machine for effectively washing clothes using foam effectively has been developed (see Patent Document 1). Since the foam film contains a high-concentration surfactant, the washing machine described above can bring the clothes and foam into contact with each other and can effectively remove dirt from the clothes.

  The washing machine of Patent Document 1 includes a foam generator that generates foam, a circulation pump that sends water containing detergent to the foam generator, and an air pump that discharges air in a liquid layer created in the foam generator. . Bubbles are generated in the bubble generator by the release of air from the air pump. The foam generator includes an inflow pipe used for inflow of water from the circulation pump and a drain pipe used for discharging water in the foam generator. Unnecessary water is discharged from the foam generator through the drain pipe.

  In order to store water in the foam generator, a pipe thinner than the inflow pipe is used as a drain pipe. Therefore, when the circulation pump supplies water to the foam generator through the inflow pipe, the foam generator can store water appropriately. When the circulation pump stops supplying water, the unnecessary water is discharged through the drain pipe.

JP 2010-172547 A

  The water supplied to the foam generator is also used for washing clothes. Therefore, the soil components and lint separated from the clothing are also supplied to the foam generator. As described above, since the drain pipe is relatively thin, dirt components and lint contained in water are likely to clog the drain pipe.

  An object of this invention is to provide the washing machine which can drain appropriately from a foam production | generation part.

  A washing machine according to one aspect of the present invention includes a washing tub for washing clothes using a liquid containing a detergent, a foam generating unit including a housing that defines a generation space for generating foam, and the foam A supply unit configured to supply the liquid to the generation unit; and a blower unit configured to send air to the generation space. The housing defines an opening through which the liquid from the supply unit toward the generation space passes, and a flow path for guiding the air from the air blowing unit toward the generation space. The opening faces the channel.

  According to the said structure, since a washing tank wash | cleans clothing using the liquid containing a detergent, the liquid may also contain the dirt component and lint which were isolate | separated from clothing. The liquid travels from the supply unit to the generation space through the opening defined by the housing. Since air is directed from the blower to the generation space through the flow path defined by the housing, bubbles are generated in the generation space. Since the opening faces the flow path through which air passes, the water stored in the generation space is retained in the generation space by the pressure of air while air is supplied. When the supply amount of air is reduced, the water is discharged from the housing through the opening by the water pressure in the generation space. Since the water storage in the generation space and the drainage from the generation space are controlled by the supply amount of air, the unnecessary water is appropriately discharged from the bubble generation unit.

  The said structure WHEREIN: The said housing | casing may also contain the flow-path wall which prescribes | regulates the said flow path. The channel wall may include an opposing wall that faces the opening.

  According to the above configuration, since the opposing wall of the flow path wall that defines the flow path faces the opening, an air layer is formed between the opening and the opposing wall while the blower supplies air. Is done. Therefore, the water stored in the generation space is appropriately retained in the generation space. When the supply amount of air is reduced, the water is discharged from the housing through the opening by the water pressure in the generation space. Since the water storage in the generation space and the drainage from the generation space are controlled by the supply amount of air, the unnecessary water is appropriately discharged from the bubble generation unit.

  The said structure WHEREIN: The said housing | casing may also include the connection pipe part which connects the said opening part and the said supply part. The supply unit may supply the liquid and create a liquid layer in the generation space. The air blowing section may guide air to the connecting pipe section and separate the liquid layer from the opening.

  According to the above configuration, the air blowing unit guides air to the connecting pipe unit that connects the opening and the supply unit, and separates the liquid layer from the opening, so that the water stored in the generation space is generated. Appropriately stays in space. When the supply amount of air is reduced, the water is discharged from the housing through the opening by the water pressure in the generation space. Since the water storage in the generation space and the drainage from the generation space are controlled by the supply amount of air, the unnecessary water is appropriately discharged from the bubble generation unit.

  In the above configuration, the housing may include a support wall that supports the liquid layer. The opening may be formed in the support wall.

  According to the above configuration, the liquid layer is appropriately supported by the support wall. Since the opening is formed in the support wall, the air layer between the opening and the opposing wall is adjacent to the liquid layer in the generation space. Therefore, the air layer between the opening and the opposing wall can appropriately retain the liquid in the generation space. When the supply amount of air is reduced, the water is discharged from the housing through the opening by the water pressure in the generation space. Since the water storage in the generation space and the drainage from the generation space are controlled by the supply amount of air, the unnecessary water is appropriately discharged from the bubble generation unit.

  The said structure WHEREIN: The said housing | casing may prescribe | regulate the ventilation port into which the said air flows in above the said liquid layer.

  According to the said structure, since a housing | casing prescribes | regulates a ventilation port above a liquid layer, the air which flowed in from the ventilation port collides with a liquid layer. As a result, large bubbles are generated in the generation space.

  The said structure WHEREIN: The said flow path may contain the 1st end part opened in the said air layer, and the 2nd end part opened in the said liquid layer.

  According to the said structure, since a 1st edge part opens in an air layer, the air sent out by the ventilation part can flow in into a flow path appropriately through a 1st edge part. Since the blower sends out air beyond the second end, air is appropriately supplied into the liquid layer. As a result, large bubbles are generated in the generation space.

  The said structure WHEREIN: The said connection pipe part may extend below the said production | generation space from the said opening part.

  According to the above configuration, while the supply unit supplies the liquid, the liquid flows upward in the connection pipe unit. On the other hand, when the supply amount of air is reduced, the liquid flows downward in the connecting pipe portion. Since the liquid flow in the connecting pipe is bidirectional, the connecting pipe is less likely to be clogged. Therefore, the water which became unnecessary is discharged | emitted appropriately from a foam production | generation part.

  In the above configuration, the washing machine may further include a control unit that controls the air blowing unit. The blower unit may include a blower fan that sends the air to the blower port. The control unit may control the number of rotations of the blower fan to discharge the liquid in the bubble generation unit from the connection pipe unit.

  According to the said structure, since a control part controls the rotation speed of a ventilation fan, the liquid in a foam production | generation part is discharged | emitted from a connecting pipe part.

  The said structure WHEREIN: The said housing | casing may also contain the standing wall standingly arranged from the said support wall. The standing wall may include a restriction edge that restricts a liquid level in the generation space. The air blowing port may be formed above the restriction edge.

  According to the said structure, since a ventilation port is formed above a restriction edge, it becomes difficult for a liquid to overflow from a ventilation port. Therefore, air can appropriately flow into the flow path through the air blowing port.

  The said structure WHEREIN: The said flow path may guide air to the direction different from the liquid guide direction which the said connection pipe part prescribes | regulates.

  According to the above configuration, since the flow path guides air in a direction different from the liquid guide direction defined by the connecting pipe portion, the supply of the liquid from the supply section is hardly hindered by the air flowing in the flow path. Become.

  In the above-described configuration, the washing machine may further include a storage tub in which clothing is stored and a drying mechanism that dries the clothing stored in the storage tub. The blower unit may include a blower fan that sends the air to the blower port. The drying mechanism may include the blower fan.

  According to the said structure, supply of the air to a storage tank and a foam production | generation part is achieved by the common ventilation fan. Therefore, the internal space of the washing machine is effectively used. In addition, the washing machine can be manufactured inexpensively.

  The washing machine according to the present invention can appropriately drain water from the foam generating unit.

1 is a schematic block diagram of an exemplary washing machine according to a first embodiment. It is a schematic perspective view of the washing machine shown in FIG. It is a schematic sectional drawing of the washing machine shown by FIG. It is a schematic perspective view of the washing machine shown in FIG. It is a schematic perspective view of the washing machine shown in FIG. It is a schematic sectional drawing of the foam production | generation part of the washing machine shown by FIG. It is a schematic sectional drawing of the housing | casing of the foam production | generation part shown by FIG. FIG. 8 is a schematic perspective sectional view of the housing shown in FIG. 7. It is a schematic enlarged view of the housing | casing shown by FIG. It is a schematic enlarged view of the guide cover of the washing machine shown by FIG. It is a schematic block diagram showing the control structure with respect to the rotation speed of the circulation pump of the washing machine shown by FIG. FIG. 2 is a schematic block diagram of the washing machine shown in FIG. 1. FIG. 2 is a conceptual diagram of an exemplary operation program of the washing machine shown in FIG. 1. It is a schematic flowchart showing the exemplary operation | movement of the washing machine shown by FIG. It is a schematic sectional drawing of the foam production | generation part shown by FIG. It is a schematic sectional drawing of the foam production | generation part shown by FIG. It is a schematic sectional drawing of the foam production | generation part shown by FIG. It is a schematic block diagram of the example washing machine of 2nd Embodiment. It is a conceptual diagram of the program regarding the washing operation cycle of the washing machine shown in FIG.

  Hereinafter, an exemplary washing machine will be described with reference to the drawings. Note that terms used in the following description to indicate directions such as “up”, “down”, “left”, and “right” are merely for the purpose of clarifying the description. Therefore, these terms do not limit the principle of the washing machine. The washing machine disclosed below has not only a washing function for washing clothes, but also a drying function for drying clothes. Alternatively, the clothing processing apparatus may be a washing machine that does not have a drying function.

<First Embodiment>
<Washing machine>
FIG. 1 is a schematic block diagram of a washing machine 100 according to the first embodiment. The washing machine 100 will be described with reference to FIG. In addition, the solid line arrow shown by FIG. 1 represents the flow of water. The dotted arrow shown in FIG. 1 represents the flow of air. A chain line arrow shown in FIG. 1 represents a transmission path of a control signal.

  The washing machine 100 includes a main housing 200, a control unit 300, a water supply mechanism 400, a washing mechanism 500, a circulation mechanism 600, and a drying mechanism 700. The main housing 200 accommodates the control unit 300, the water supply mechanism 400, the washing mechanism 500, the circulation mechanism 600, and the drying mechanism 700. The control unit 300 controls the water supply mechanism 400, the washing mechanism 500, the circulation mechanism 600, and the drying mechanism 700.

  The washing machine 100 may sequentially execute a washing process for washing clothes, a rinsing process for rinsing clothes, a dehydration process for dehydrating clothes, and a drying process for drying clothes.

  The washing mechanism 500 includes a storage tank 510 in which clothing is stored, and a motor 520 that drives the storage tank 510. The motor 520 drives the storage tank 510 under the control of the control unit 300. In the washing process, the storage tank 510 stirs the clothes in a liquid containing a detergent. As a result, the garment is properly washed. In the rinsing process, the storage tank 510 stirs the clothes in water having a lower detergent concentration than in the washing process. Further, in the rinsing process, water supply to the storage tank 510 and drainage from the storage tank 510 are repeated. As a result, the detergent is properly removed from the garment. In the dehydration step, the storage tank 510 dehydrates the clothes using centrifugal force. As a result, drying of clothes is promoted. In the drying process, dry air is supplied to the storage tank 510. Since the humidity of the dry air is low and the temperature is high, the clothes are appropriately dried in the storage tank 510. While the dry air is supplied, the storage tank 510 stirs the clothes. As a result, the clothes are appropriately dried. In the present embodiment, the storage tank 510 is exemplified as a cleaning tank.

  The water supply mechanism 400 supplies water to the storage tank 510 in the above-described washing process and rinsing process. The water supply mechanism 400 includes a water supply port 410 connected to the faucet, a switching valve 420, and a detergent storage unit 430 in which a detergent is stored. The water supplied to the water supply port 410 reaches the switching valve 420. The switching valve 420 switches the water supply path between the first water supply path 421 in which the water goes directly to the storage tank 510 and the second water supply path 422 in which water is supplied to the storage tank 510 through the detergent storage unit 430. Switch. The first water supply path 421 may be used, for example, in a rinsing process. As a result, tap water is directly supplied to the storage tank 510. The 2nd water supply path 422 may be used for a washing process, for example. When the switching valve 420 opens the second water supply path 422, water flows into the detergent container 430. In the detergent container 430, water and detergent are mixed. As a result, water containing the detergent flows into the storage tank 510.

  The circulation mechanism 600 includes a circulation pump 610 and a foam generation unit 620. The circulation mechanism 600 may circulate water between the circulation pump 610 and the storage tank 510 in the above-described washing process and rinsing process. In the present embodiment, the circulation mechanism 600 includes a first circulation path 611 and a second circulation path 612 for circulating water between the circulation pump 610 and the storage tank 510. When the first circulation path 611 is used, water flows into the storage tank 510 through the foam generation unit 620. When the second circulation path 612 is used, water is sent directly from the circulation pump 610 to the storage tank 510. Since water is sent to the foam generating unit 620 and the storage tank 510 by the single pump 610, the space in the main housing 200 can be used effectively, and the washing machine 100 can be manufactured at low cost. In addition, the use of a single pump 610 results in increased flexibility in layout design within the main housing 200. In the present embodiment, the circulation mechanism 600 is exemplified as the supply unit.

  The bubble generation unit 620 generates bubbles. The foam generated by the foam generation unit 620 is sent to the storage tank 510. Since the foam film forming the foam contains a high concentration of surfactant, the clothes in the storage tank 510 are effectively cleaned by contact with the foam.

  In the present embodiment, the circulation pump 610 varies the rotational speed under the control of the control unit 300. While the circulation pump 610 operates at a high rotation speed, water flows into the storage tank 510 mainly through the first circulation path 611. While the circulation pump 610 operates at a low rotation speed, the water flows into the storage tank 510 through the second circulation path 612. When the control unit 300 adjusts the rotation speed of the circulation pump 610 and changes the pumping amount, the circulation path is appropriately switched between the first circulation path 611 and the second circulation path 612. Alternatively, a switching valve and other elements that can selectively define the water flow direction may be used for switching the water circulation path.

  The drying mechanism 700 includes an air filter 710 that receives air sent out from the storage tank 510, a heat exchange unit 720 that exchanges heat with the air that has passed through the air filter 710, and a blower fan that sends out air that has passed through the heat exchange unit 720. 730, and a switching valve 740 that switches the flow direction of the air sent from the blower fan 730. The air filter 710 removes lint from the air sent out from the storage tank 510. Accordingly, the purified air flows into the heat exchange unit 720. In the drying process, the control unit 300 may activate the heat exchange unit 720. The heat exchange unit 720 dehumidifies and heats the air. As a result, dry air suitable for drying clothes is generated. The controller 300 may stop the heat exchange unit 720 during the washing process and the dehydrating process. As a result, the heat exchange unit 720 does not consume power unnecessarily. Alternatively, the control unit 300 may activate the heat exchange unit 720 in the washing process. As a result, the detergent may be activated using the heat transferred from the heat exchange unit 720 to the air.

  The controller 300 operates the blower fan 730 and the switching valve 740 in the washing process and the drying process. In the washing process, the switching valve 740 sets the flow path of the air from the blower fan 730 to the first blower path 741 toward the foam generating unit 620. As described above, since the water containing the detergent is sent to the foam generation unit 620 by the circulation pump 610, when the air from the blower fan 730 flows into the foam generation unit 620, large bubbles are generated in the foam generation unit 620. . The foam generation technique of the present embodiment makes it possible to efficiently create bubbles with a size of about 5 mm to about 20 mm.

  In the drying process, the switching valve 740 sets the flow path of the air from the blower fan 730 to the second blower path 742 toward the storage tank 510. As a result, the above-described dry air flows into the storage tank 510 and dries the clothes. The dry air then flows into the air filter 710 through a return path 743 defined between the storage tank 510 and the air filter 710. In this embodiment, the drying mechanism 700 is illustrated as a ventilation part.

  FIG. 2 is a schematic perspective view of the washing machine 100. The washing machine 100 will be further described with reference to FIGS. 1 and 2.

  The main housing 200 is opposite to the front wall 210, the rear wall 220 opposite to the front wall 210, the left wall 230 erected between the front wall 210 and the rear wall 220, and the left wall 230. And a top wall 250 surrounded by the upper edges of the front wall 210, the rear wall 220, the left wall 230 and the right wall 240, and a bottom wall 260 opposite to the top wall 250. The water supply port 410 described with reference to FIG. 1 is exposed on the top wall 250. The user can connect the water supply port 410 and the faucet (not shown) using, for example, a hose.

  The washing machine 100 further includes a door body 101 attached to the front wall 210. The door body 101 rotates between a closed position along the front wall 210 and an open position protruding from the front wall 210. Note that the door body 101 shown in FIG. 2 is in the open position. When the door body 101 is in the open position, the insertion port 511 defined by the storage tank 510 is exposed. The user can turn the door body 101 to the open position and put the clothes into the storage tank 510 through the insertion port 511.

  FIG. 3 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the washing machine 100. The washing machine 100 will be further described with reference to FIGS. 1 and 3.

  The storage tank 510 includes a rotating drum 530 in which clothing is stored and a water tank 540 in which the rotating drum 530 is stored. The rotating drum 530 includes an inner ring wall 531 that defines the inlet 511, an inner bottom wall 532 opposite to the inner ring wall 531, and a cylindrical inner peripheral wall between the inner ring wall 531 and the inner bottom wall 532. 533. The water tank 540 includes an outer ring wall 541 disposed between the front wall 210 and the inner ring wall 531, an outer bottom wall 542 disposed between the rear wall 220 and the inner bottom wall 532, and the outer ring wall 541. And an outer peripheral wall 543 surrounding the inner peripheral wall 533 between the outer bottom wall 542 and the outer bottom wall 542.

  The motor 520 includes a main body 521 that generates a driving force and a driving shaft 522 that transmits the driving force to the rotating drum 530. The drive shaft 522 passes through the outer bottom wall 542 and is connected to the inner bottom wall 532.

  In addition to the circulation pump 610 and the foam generation unit 620 (see FIG. 1), the circulation mechanism 600 includes a drain valve 690, an upstream circulation pipe 640 that defines a path of water flowing from the water tank 540 to the circulation pump 610, and a circulation. A downstream circulation pipe 650 that defines a path of water returning from the pump 610 to the water tank 540 and a drain pipe 660 that defines a drain path to the outside of the main housing 200 are provided. The drain valve 690 is attached to the drain pipe 660. The control unit 300 (see FIG. 1) controls the drain valve 690. While water is being circulated between the storage tank 510 and the circulation pump 610, the control unit 300 closes the drain valve 690. The controller 300 opens the drain valve 690 in order to discharge the water that is no longer needed.

  The downstream circulation pipe 650 includes a main pipe 659 into which water discharged from the circulation pump 610 flows, a first branch pipe 651 branched from the main pipe 659 and connected to the foam generation unit 620, and branched from the main pipe 659, and an outer ring wall 2nd branch pipe 652 connected to 541. The first branch pipe 651 defines the first circulation path 611 described with reference to FIG. The second branch pipe 652 defines the second circulation path 612 described with reference to FIG. The controller 300 may control the pumping amount of the circulation pump 610 and selectively execute the water circulation through the first branch pipe 651 and the water circulation through the second branch pipe 652.

  In addition to the air filter 710, the heat exchange unit 720, the blower fan 730, and the switching valve 740, the drying mechanism 700 includes an intake pipe 750 that defines a flow path of air from the storage tank 510 to the blower fan 730, and a blower fan 730. And an air supply pipe 760 that regulates the flow of air sent out from the air. The air filter 710 and the heat exchange unit 720 are disposed in the intake pipe 750. The blower fan 730 is disposed at a connection portion between the intake pipe 750 and the air supply pipe 760. When the blower fan 730 rotates, a negative pressure environment is created in the intake pipe 750, while a positive pressure environment is created in the air supply pipe 760.

  The air supply pipe 760 branches from the main air supply pipe 769 that guides the air sent out by the blower fan 730, the first air supply pipe 761 that branches from the main air supply pipe 769, and guides the air to the bubble generation unit 620, and the main air supply pipe 769. A second air guide pipe 762 that branches and guides air directly to the storage tank 510. As a result, the single blower fan 730 blows air to the foam generation unit 620 and the storage tank 510. Therefore, the space in the main housing 200 is used effectively. In addition, the washing machine 100 can be manufactured at low cost. The blower fan 730 can send air to the bubble generating unit 620 with a large air volume. Therefore, the bubbles generated in the bubble generation unit 620 are increased. In addition, bubbles are generated in a short time.

  The switching valve 740 is disposed at a branch point where the main air supply pipe 769 branches to the first air guide pipe 761 and the second air guide pipe 762. The first air conduit 761 defines the first air passage 741 described with reference to FIG. The second air guide tube 762 defines the second air blowing path 742 described with reference to FIG. The intake pipe 750 defines the return path 743 described with reference to FIG.

  FIG. 4 is a schematic perspective view of the washing machine 100. The washing machine 100 is further described with reference to FIGS. 1, 3, and 4.

  The outer peripheral wall 543 of the water tank 540 includes a front peripheral wall 545 to which the outer ring wall 541 is attached, and a rear peripheral wall 546 disposed between the outer bottom wall 542 and the front peripheral wall 545. The foam generation unit 620 is attached to the front peripheral wall 545. 3 and 4 show the rotation axis RX of the rotary drum 530 defined by the motor 520. FIG. In the present embodiment, the bubble generation unit 620 is disposed above the rotation axis RX.

  The intake pipe 750 includes a bellows pipe 751 that protrudes upward from the front peripheral wall 545, and a storage duct 752 that stores the air filter 710 and the heat exchange unit 720. Note that the air filter 710 is removed from the accommodation duct 752 shown in FIG. 4, and the heat exchange unit 720 is exposed.

  When the blower fan 730 is activated, a negative pressure environment is created in the bellows pipe 751 and the accommodating duct 752. As a result, the air in the storage tank 510 sequentially flows into the bellows pipe 751 and the storage duct 752.

  FIG. 5 is a schematic perspective view of the washing machine 100. The washing machine 100 will be further described with reference to FIGS. 2, 4, and 5.

  The intake pipe 750 further includes a lid portion 753. The lid 753 is used for closing an outlet 754 (see FIG. 4) formed in the accommodating duct 752 in order to take out the air filter 710 from the main housing 200. As shown in FIG. 2, the lid 753 is exposed on the top wall 250.

  The blower fan 730 is attached to the accommodation duct 752. The main air supply pipe 769 is connected to the blower fan 730 and the switching valve 740 disposed below the blower fan 730. The first air conduit 761 extends rightward from the switching valve 740 along the outer bottom wall 542, and then extends forward along the outer peripheral wall 543. Finally, the first air guide tube 761 is connected to the foam generating unit 620. The second air guide pipe 762 extends downward from the switching valve 740 and is connected to the outer peripheral wall 543.

  The detergent storage portion 430 is disposed on the left side of the storage duct 752. The water supply port 410 and the switching valve 420 are disposed on the left side of the blower fan 730. The switching valve 420 is disposed between the water supply port 410 and the blower fan 730.

<Bubble generator>
FIG. 6 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the bubble generator 620. The bubble production | generation part 620 is demonstrated with reference to FIG.3 and FIG.6.

  The bubble generation unit 620 includes a housing 621 that defines a generation space 629 in which bubbles are generated, an upper tube 622 that protrudes upward from the housing 621, and a lower tube 623 that protrudes downward from the housing 621. . The first branch pipe 651 described with reference to FIG. 3 is connected to the lower cylinder 623. When the circulation pump 610 pumps up the water containing the detergent to the foam generation unit 620, a boundary BD between the liquid layer WL and the air layer AL is formed in the housing 621. Since the lower cylinder 623 extends below the generation space 629, when the blower fan 730 is stopped, water is appropriately discharged from the housing 621 through the lower cylinder 623.

The first air guide tube 761 described with reference to FIG. 3 is connected to the upper tube 622. The upper cylinder 622 defines an air outlet 624 that communicates with the generation space 629 above the boundary BD. The air sent out by the blower fan 730 flows into the generation space 629 through the blower port 624. Therefore, when the blower fan 730 is activated, the air directed downward by the first air guide pipe 761, the upper tube 622, and the blower port 624 is blown out toward the boundary BD through the air layer AL. As a result, large bubbles are generated in the generation space 629. Since the air outlet 624 exists above the boundary BD, it is difficult for water to go to the air fan 730 through the air outlet 624. Therefore, the blower fan 730 can blow air toward the liquid layer WL with high reliability. At this time, the rotational speed of the blower fan 730 may be set in a range of about 4000 rpm to about 5000 rpm. As a result, the amount of air passing through the liquid layer WL is approximately 0.1 m ³ / min to about 0.3 m ³ / min. In the drying process, the rotational speed of the blower fan 730 may be set in a range of about 4000 rpm to about 6000 rpm. Under the scope of this rotational speed, the blower fan 730 is capable of delivering air at about ^{2m 3} / ^min~4m 3 / min to the storage tank 510. In this embodiment, the lower cylinder 623 is illustrated as a connecting pipe part.

  The housing 621 includes a bottom wall 625 from which the lower cylinder 623 protrudes, a top wall 626 lying above the bottom wall 625, a front wall 627 connected to the front end of the bottom wall 625 and the front end of the top wall 626, A rear wall 628 opposite to the wall 627 and an inclined wall 630 inclined downward from the rear end of the top wall 626 to the upper end of the rear wall 628 are included. The upper cylinder 622 protrudes from the inclined wall 630.

  The housing 621 further includes an L-shaped plate 631. The L-shaped plate 631 includes a horizontal plate 632 lying between the bottom wall 625 and the top wall 626, and a vertical plate 633 erected from the rear end of the horizontal plate 632 toward the air outlet 624. A ventilation path 634 is formed between the vertical plate 633 and the rear wall 628 and between the horizontal plate 632 and the bottom wall 625.

  The lower cylinder 623 includes a lower portion 635 protruding downward from the bottom wall 625 and an upper portion 636 protruding upward from the bottom wall 625. The lower cylinder 623 defines a flow path 637 of water containing the detergent. The upper portion 636 that appears in the ventilation path 634 isolates the flow path 637 from the ventilation path 634. Therefore, almost no water leaks into the ventilation path 634. The upper portion 636 defines an opening 638 on the lateral plate 632. The water sent out through the lower cylinder 623 overflows from the opening 638 onto the L-shaped plate 631 and travels toward the generation space 629 on the horizontal plate 632. As a result, the liquid layer WL is formed. The horizontal plate 632 supports the liquid layer WL. In the present embodiment, the horizontal plate 632 is exemplified as a support wall.

  The housing 621 further includes a control plate 641 erected upward from the horizontal plate 632. The control plate 641 includes a connection edge 642 connected to the horizontal plate 632 and a restriction edge 643 opposite to the connection edge 642. When the liquid level in the generation space 629 exceeds the restriction edge 643, the water passes over the restriction edge 643 and is discharged from the housing 621. Therefore, the control plate 641 can appropriately control the liquid level in the generation space 629. In the present embodiment, the control plate 641 is exemplified as a standing wall.

  The foam generation unit 620 further includes a punching plate 670. A number of punch holes 671 are formed in the punching plate 670. The punch hole 671 allows the passage of air. As a result, the air is rectified by the punching plate and can be blown out substantially uniformly toward the boundary BL. The housing 621 includes a support plate 644 extending downward from the top wall 626 between the vertical plate 633 and the control plate 641. The support plate 644 includes a rear support portion 645 that sandwiches the rear end of the punching plate 670. The control plate 641 includes a front support portion 646 that sandwiches the front end of the punching plate 670. The punching plate 670 is appropriately supported on the horizontal plate 632 by the front support portion 646 and the rear support portion 645.

  The housing 621 further includes a baffle plate 647 extending from the support plate 644 toward the control plate 641 and lying on the opening 638. The baffle plate 647 lies between the punching plate 670 and the lateral plate 632. The baffle plate 647 collides with the upward flow of water defined by the lower cylinder 623 and urges water to the generation space 629. The vertical plate 633 is erected between the support plate 644 and the rear wall 628. Between the vertical plate 633 and the support plate 644 and between the baffle plate 647 and the horizontal plate 632, a control air passage 648 for guiding the air sent from the air blowing port 624 to the generation space 629 is formed. The opening 638 described above faces the control air path 648. Further, the opening 638 faces the baffle plate 647. The area of the baffle plate 647 is larger than the area of the opening 638. Therefore, if the outer contour of the opening 638 is projected onto the baffle plate 647, the projected outer contour of the opening 638 will fall within the region defined by the outer contour of the baffle plate 647. In this embodiment, the control air path 648 is illustrated as a flow path. The support plate 644, the baffle plate 647, and the L-shaped plate 631 are exemplified as flow path walls. The baffle plate 647 is illustrated as an opposing wall.

  The vertical plate 633 extends from the rear end of the horizontal plate 632 toward the air outlet 624. The vertical plate 633 includes an upper edge 681 that faces the air blowing port 624. The upper edge 681 separates the air that has flowed in from the air outlet 624 into air that flows into the control air passage 648 and air that flows into the air passage 634.

  The baffle plate 647 includes a tip edge 682 that faces the control plate 641. The control air passage 648 includes an inflow end 683 defined between the upper edge 681 and the support plate 644, and an outflow end 684 defined between the tip edge 682 and the lateral plate 632. Since the inflow end 683 is located above the restriction edge 643, the inflow end 683 opens in the air layer AL. Therefore, air can appropriately flow into the control air passage 648 from the air blowing port 624.

  Since the outflow end 684 opens toward the generation space 629, when the circulation pump 610 supplies water to the foam generation unit 620, the outflow end 684 sinks into the liquid layer WL. Therefore, the boundary BD between the air layer AL and the liquid layer WL is formed not only in the generation space 629 but also in the control air path 648. When the air blowing fan 730 causes air to flow into the housing 621 through the air blowing port 624 formed above the boundary BD formed in the control air passage 648, the air collides with the boundary BD, and finally The generation space 629 can be reached beyond the outflow end 684. As a result, large bubbles are generated in the generation space 629. In the present embodiment, the inflow end 683 is exemplified as the first end. The outflow end 684 is exemplified as the second end.

  The blower fan 730 may send air into the generation space 629 and the lower cylinder 623 with high pressure. When the blower fan 730 sends air to the generation space 629 and the lower cylinder 623 with high pressure, the water in the control air passage 648 is pushed out. As a result, the control air passage 648 is filled with high-pressure air. Therefore, the control air path 648 is filled with the air layer AL while the liquid layer WL in the generation space 629 is separated from the opening 638. The lower cylinder 623 that defines the opening 638 is connected to the horizontal plate 632 between the inflow end 683 and the outflow end 684. Since the space between the inflow end 683 and the outflow end 684 is filled with the air layer AL formed by blowing air from the blowing fan 730, the liquid layer WL in the generation space 629 is separated from the opening 638. While the liquid layer WL is separated from the opening 638, the discharge of water through the opening 638 is stopped. When the blower fan 730 stops blowing air, the liquid layer WL can enter the control air passage 648. As a result, the liquid layer WL is drained through the opening 638. Thus, the control air passage 648 can be used to control drainage from the generation space 629. As described above, while the circulation pump 610 is stopped, the liquid layer WL is prevented from being unintentionally discharged from the opening 638 without using a control valve such as a check valve. While the circulation pump 610 is stopped, a control valve such as an on-off valve is not required for controlling the drainage of the liquid layer WL, so that the space in the main housing 200 is used effectively and the washing machine 100 is inexpensive. Can be manufactured.

  FIG. 7 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the housing 621. The housing 621 will be described with reference to FIGS. 4, 6, and 7.

  The housing 621 includes a left wall 661 that faces the front peripheral wall 545. Between the control plate 641 and the front wall 627, an upper exhaust port 663 and a lower exhaust port 662 adjacent to the upper exhaust port 663 are formed in the left wall 661. The control air path 648 and the generation space 629 are formed between the air blowing port 624 and the upper exhaust port 663. The air that has flowed into the control air passage 648 from the air blowing port 624 enters the liquid layer WL on the generation space 629 and generates large bubbles. Bubbles generated in the generation space 629 get over the control plate 641 and are discharged from the upper exhaust port 663.

  The ventilation path 634 is formed between the air outlet 624 and the lower exhaust port 662. The L-shaped plate 631 partitions the generation space 629 on the horizontal plate 632 and the ventilation path 634, so that water hardly enters the ventilation path 634. Therefore, the air flowing into the ventilation path 634 is exhausted vigorously from the lower exhaust port 662 without being hindered by water.

  The housing 621 includes a front mounting portion 664 formed on the left wall 661 along the lower exhaust port 662 and the upper exhaust port 663, and a rear mounting formed on the left wall 661 on the rear side of the front mounting portion 664. And a portion 665. The front attachment portion 664 and the rear attachment portion 665 are used for attaching the foam generating portion 620 to the front peripheral wall 545.

  FIG. 8 is a schematic perspective sectional view of the housing 621 attached to the front peripheral wall 545. FIG. 9 is a schematic enlarged view of the housing 621 around the front mounting portion 664. A connection structure between the housing 621 and the front peripheral wall 545 will be described with reference to FIGS. 4, 8, and 9.

  The water tank 540 includes a guide cover 551 disposed between the outer ring wall 541 and the front peripheral wall 545, and a connecting pipe 552 that connects the housing 621 and the guide cover 551. The front mounting portion 664 includes a facing surface 666 that faces the front peripheral wall 545. The opposing surface 666 is formed with a seal groove 667 that surrounds the upper exhaust port 663 and the lower exhaust port 662 formed below the upper exhaust port 663. A seal member such as an O-ring is embedded in the seal groove 667. The connection pipe 552 includes a first connection end 562 connected to the facing surface 666 and a second connection end 563 connected to the guide cover 551. The first connection end 562 compresses the seal member disposed in the seal groove 667 and keeps the connection portion between the connecting pipe 552 and the housing 621 airtight. The second connection end 563 and the guide cover 551 may be hermetically connected by a structure similar to the connection structure between the first connection end 562 and the facing surface 666.

  FIG. 10 is a schematic enlarged view of the guide cover 551. The guide cover 551 is described with reference to FIGS.

  The guide cover 551 includes a guide region 553 for guiding bubbles and air discharged from the housing 621. The guide region 553 includes an inflow end 554 into which bubbles and air flow and an outflow end 555 opposite to the inflow end 554. The outflow end 555 faces an input port 511 defined by the rotary drum 530. Accordingly, the foam and air are supplied to the clothing through the input port 511.

  The guide region 553 includes a lower rib 556 extending from the inflow end 554 to the outflow end 555, an upper rib 557 extending from the inflow end 554 to the outflow end 555 above the lower rib 556, and between the lower rib 556 and the upper rib 557. An intermediate rib 561 that divides the space into an upper guide path 558 communicating with the upper exhaust port 663 and a lower guide path 559 communicating with the lower exhaust port 662 is included. The connecting pipe 552 is also divided into an upper guide path 558 and a lower guide path 559 as in the guide area 553. Therefore, the air guided by the lower guide path 559 from the first connection end 562 to the outflow end 555 is partitioned from the air and bubbles guided by the upper guide path 558.

  An upper opening 568 is formed between the upper rib 557 and the intermediate rib 561. A lower opening 567 is formed between the lower rib 556 and the intermediate rib 561. Air and bubbles are discharged from the upper opening 568 to the storage tank 510. Air is discharged from the lower opening 567.

  The air that has flowed into the control air passage 648 passes over the horizontal plate 632. Since water containing detergent is present on the horizontal plate 632, the air flowing on the horizontal plate 632 generates large bubbles. Thereafter, the air is exhausted from the upper exhaust port 663. The bubbles are discharged from the upper exhaust port 663 together with the air flowing toward the upper exhaust port 663. Thereafter, the foam flows into the rotary drum 530 from the upper opening 568 through the upper guide path 558 formed in the connection pipe 552 and the guide region 553. As a result, the foam is in direct contact with the clothing in the rotating drum 530. The garment will be effectively cleaned by the foam film containing a high concentration of surfactant. The principle of this embodiment contributes to the generation of large bubbles in the generation space 629. Thus, contact between clothing and foam over a large area is achieved. Thus, the garment is efficiently cleaned.

  As described above, there is almost no water in the ventilation path 634. Therefore, the air flowing into the ventilation path 634 is exhausted from the lower exhaust port 662 with almost no resistance to water. Thereafter, the air flows into the rotating drum 530 from the lower opening 567 formed below the upper opening 568 through the lower guide path 559 formed in the connecting pipe 552 and the guide region 553 at a high speed. The bubbles discharged through the upper guide path 558 move downward by gravity. Since the lower guide path 559 is formed immediately below the upper guide path 558, the bubbles are diffused in a wide range in the rotary drum 530 by the air blown out from the lower guide path 559. As a result, contact between clothing and foam is achieved over a wide range. Thus, the garment is efficiently cleaned.

<Water supply control to the foam generator>
With reference to FIGS. 3, 4, and 6, water supply to the foam generation unit 620 will be described.

  As shown in FIG. 3, the circulation pump 610 is disposed below the storage tank 510. As shown in FIG. 4, the foam generation unit 620 is disposed above the rotation axis RX of the rotary drum 530 (that is, above the circulation pump 610). When the circulation pump 610 rotates at a high rotation speed, the water is pumped by the circulation pump 610 toward the foam generation unit 620 through the first branch pipe 651. The first branch pipe 651 is connected to the lower cylinder 623. Therefore, water flows into the housing 621 through the lower cylinder 623.

  As shown in FIG. 3, the second branch pipe 652 is connected to the water tank 540 above the circulation pump 610. In addition, the connection position of the 2nd branch pipe 652 and the water tank 540 is below the rotating shaft RX. Therefore, the circulation pump 610 can rotate at a relatively low rotational speed and feed water into the water tank 540.

  When the circulation pump 610 rotates at a high rotation speed, the water is guided by the main pipe 659 and reaches the branch portion between the first branch pipe 651 and the second branch pipe 652. Thereafter, the water flows into the first branch pipe 651 and the second branch pipe 652. The first branch pipe 651 guides to the housing 621. Therefore, the water that has flowed into the first branch pipe 651 reaches the bubble generation unit 620. Since the air sent from the blower fan 730 also flows into the bubble generation unit 620, a large bubble is generated in the bubble generation unit 620. The foam generated in the foam generation unit 620 is then sent out to the storage tank 510. The second branch pipe 652 guides water directly to the water tank 540. Therefore, the water that has flowed into the second branch pipe 652 flows directly into the water tank 540.

  FIG. 11 is a schematic block diagram showing a control structure for the rotational speed of circulation pump 610. With reference to FIG. 11, the control with respect to the rotation speed of the circulation pump 610 is demonstrated.

  Circulation pump 610 can adjust the rotation speed under the control of control unit 300. When the circulation pump 610 rotates at the first rotation speed (X1 rpm), the circulation pump 610 can pump up to the first level PWL1. When the controller 300 rotates the circulation pump 610 at a rotation speed equal to or higher than the first rotation speed, water containing detergent is introduced into the first branch pipe 651 and water and detergent are supplied to the foam generation section 620. it can. Therefore, when clothing is washed using foam, the controller 300 may rotate the circulation pump 610 at a rotation speed equal to or higher than the first rotation speed. When the circulation pump 610 rotates at a second rotation speed (X2 rpm) lower than the first rotation speed, the circulation pump 610 can pump water to a second level PWL2 lower than the first level PWL1. When the controller 300 rotates the circulation pump 610 at a rotation speed greater than or equal to the second rotation speed and less than the first rotation speed, the circulation pump 610 supplies water only to the water tank 540 through the second branch pipe 652. it can.

  The controller 300 can adjust the flow rate of water in the first branch pipe 651 by using the rotation speed of the circulation pump 610. Therefore, the control unit 300 can control the circulation pump 610 and adjust the amount of water supplied to the foam generation unit 620.

  The controller 300 can adjust the flow rate of the water in the second branch pipe 652 using the rotational speed of the circulation pump 610. Therefore, the control unit 300 can control the circulation pump 610 and adjust the amount of water circulated between the water tank 540 and the circulation pump 610.

  FIG. 12 is a schematic block diagram of the washing machine 100. The control of the washing machine 100 will be described with reference to FIGS. 3, 6, and 12.

  The washing machine 100 further includes a liquid level sensor 310 that detects the water level in the storage tank 510. FIG. 3 shows the water level DL in the storage tank 510 detected by the liquid level sensor 310. The liquid level sensor 310 is set to detect the level of water that has started to enter the rotating drum 530. Note that the water level in the storage tank 510 at this time may be above the lower end of the rotating drum 530. The liquid level sensor 310 sends a detection signal indicating the entry of water to the rotary drum 530 to the control unit 300 before the clothes in the rotary drum 530 are buried in water.

  The control unit 300 that has received the detection signal controls the circulation pump 610 and sets the rotation speed of the circulation pump 610 to be equal to or higher than the first rotation speed. As a result, the flow rate of water in the first branch pipe 651 increases. The water containing the detergent is sent to the foam generation unit 620 through the first branch pipe 651.

  The control unit 300 controls the switching valve 740 simultaneously with the control for the circulation pump 610 to open the first air conduit 761 and close the second air conduit 762. At this time, water supply into the storage tank 510 by the water supply mechanism 400 may be stopped, and a high detergent concentration may be maintained. As a result, bubbles can be generated immediately in the bubble generator 620. Thereafter, the controller 300 activates the blower fan 730. As a result, air is sent from the blower fan 730 to the bubble generating unit 620 through the first air guide tube 761. As described above, since water containing detergent is supplied to the foam generation unit 620, large bubbles are generated in the foam generation unit 620. The foam is fed into the storage tank 510 together with the air and comes into contact with the clothing. As described above, the liquid level sensor 310 sends a detection signal to the control unit 300 before the clothes in the rotary drum 530 are buried in water, so that bubbles are hindered by the water stored in the storage tank 510. Without contact with clothing. As a result, the foam can effectively wash the garment. Moreover, since a detergent melt | dissolves appropriately in water, the water containing a detergent will be efficiently sent to a housing | casing.

  The liquid level sensor 310 may be set so that the volume of water in the storage tank 510 when the liquid level sensor 310 sends a detection signal to the control unit 300 is larger than the volume of the housing 621. As a result, the circulation pump 610 can continuously send water containing the detergent to the foam generation unit 620.

<Operation control of washing machine>
FIG. 13 is a conceptual diagram of an exemplary operation program of the washing machine 100. The operation of the washing machine 100 will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 and 13.

  The operation of the washing machine 100 may be programmed using an operation cycle including a foam cleaning process, a shower process, a circulation stirring process, and a drainage process. The controller 300 may control the water supply mechanism 400, the washing mechanism 500, the circulation mechanism 600, and the drying mechanism 700 according to the set operation program. The washing machine 100 may repeat the programmed operation cycle a plurality of times in the washing process. Alternatively, the washing machine 100 may perform a programmed operation cycle only once in the washing process. The number of repetitions of the operation cycle may be determined according to the amount of clothes stored in the storage tank 510, the degree of dirt on the clothes, and other appropriate parameters.

  In the foam cleaning process, the clothes are effectively cleaned by the foam supplied from the foam generation unit 620. A shower process is performed after a foam washing process. In the shower process, the water supply mechanism 400 sprinkles water directly on the clothes in the rotary drum 530. As a result, the surfactant contained at a high concentration in the foam film attached to the clothing penetrates into the clothing. A circulation stirring process is performed after a shower process. In the circulation stirring step, the clothes are stirred in water. In addition, a shower process and a circulation stirring process may be performed in parallel. A drainage process is performed after a circulation stirring process. As a result, the dirty water is drained from the washing machine 100.

  During the washing operation cycle, the foam washing process is performed early. As a result, in the bubble cleaning step, water that hardly contains impurities (dirt components) is supplied to the bubble generation unit 620. Therefore, the bubble production | generation part 620 can produce | generate a big bubble efficiently.

  FIG. 14 is a schematic flowchart showing an exemplary operation of the washing machine 100 in the foam cleaning process. The operation of the washing machine 100 will be described with reference to FIGS. 1, 3, and 12 to 14.

(Step S110)
As shown in FIG. 13, when the washing process is started or when the draining process of the previous operation cycle is completed, the foam washing process is performed. The bubble cleaning process starts from step S110. In step S <b> 110, the control unit 300 controls the water supply mechanism 400 and opens the water supply port 410. Thereafter, step S120 is executed.

(Step S120)
In step S <b> 120, the switching valve 420 opens a water flow path to the detergent container 430 under the control of the controller 300. As a result, water flows into the detergent container 430. The detergent in the detergent container 430 dissolves in water. Thereafter, the water containing the detergent flows into the storage tank 510. When a predetermined amount of water is supplied to the storage tank 510 through the detergent storage unit 430, then step S130 is executed.

(Step S130)
In step S130, the circulation pump 610 operates under the control of the control unit 300, and increases the flow rate of water in the second branch pipe 652. For example, the circulation pump 610 may rotate at such a low rotational speed that the water flowing into the storage tank 510 through the second branch pipe 652 passes through the gap between the inner peripheral wall 533 and the outer peripheral wall 543. As a result of the circulation of water between the circulation pump 610 and the storage tank 510, the detergent concentration in the water sent from the water supply mechanism 400 is made uniform. Step S140 is performed after the circulation pump 610 operates.

(Step S140)
In step S140, the control unit 300 determines whether or not the water level in the storage tank 510 has exceeded the reference water level DL based on the detection signal from the liquid level sensor 310. If the water level in the storage tank 510 is less than the water level DL, step S130 is executed. If the water level in storage tank 510 is equal to or higher than water level DL, control unit 300 stops water supply from water supply mechanism 400. Thereafter, step S150 is executed.

(Step S150)
In step S150, the control unit 300 starts timing. Thereafter, step S160 is executed.

(Step S160)
In step S160, the control unit 300 sets the rotational speed of the circulation pump 610 to be equal to or higher than the first rotational speed (X1 rpm), and increases the flow rate of water in the first branch pipe 651. As a result, the water containing the detergent is supplied to the foam generating unit 620. Thereafter, step S170 is executed.

(Step S170)
In step S <b> 170, the control unit 300 controls the switching valve 740 to direct the air flow path to the foam generation unit 620. Thereafter, the blower fan 730 operates under the control of the control unit 300. As a result, not only water containing the detergent but also air is sent to the foam generating unit 620. As a result of the supply of air to the bubble generation unit 620, large bubbles are generated in the bubble generation unit 620. When the generated foam rides on the air flow and is supplied to the storage tank 510, step S180 is executed.

(Step S180)
In step S180, the control unit 300 controls the motor 520 to rotate the rotating drum 530. As a result, the clothes are agitated in the rotating drum 530. Therefore, the foam comes into contact with the entire clothing in the storage tank 510.

  As shown in FIG. 3, the rotation axis RX of the rotary drum 530 extends from the front wall 210 toward the rear wall 220. Accordingly, the clothing moves upward due to the rotation of the rotating drum 530 and then falls due to gravity. As a result, the garment is hit against the inner surface of the inner peripheral wall 533. The collision force acting between the garment and the inner peripheral wall 533 contributes to the removal of dirt components from the garment. Since the foam created according to the principle of the present embodiment is larger than the foam created according to the principle of the prior art, unlike the foam used in the conventional foam cleaning process, the impact force between the clothing and the inner peripheral wall 533 It hardly causes a cushioning action to attenuate. Thus, the garment is efficiently cleaned.

  The washing machine 100 generates large bubbles. Since large bubbles come into contact with the garment, the contact area of the garment per bubble is large. Therefore, the principle of this embodiment makes the bubble cleaning process efficient.

  When the stirring of the clothing in the storage tank 510 is started, step S190 is executed.

(Step S190)
In step S190, the control unit 300 compares the elapsed time from step S150 with the threshold period “Tth”. If the elapsed time exceeds the threshold period “Tth”, the bubble cleaning process ends and the next shower process is executed. In other cases, step S160 is executed.

<Drainage control>
15A to 15C are schematic cross-sectional views of the bubble generation unit 620. FIG. A method for controlling the drainage from the foam generation unit 620 will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 and 15A to 15C.

(Filling control)
As shown in FIG. 15A, when the control unit 300 rotates the circulation pump 610 at a high rotation number and stops the blower fan 730, water flows into the housing 621 through the lower cylinder 623. The water reaching the opening 638 collides with the baffle plate 647 and then flows substantially horizontally. As a result, the liquid layer WL and the air layer AL are formed in the generation space 629 and the control air path 648. Since the inflow end 683 is located above the restriction edge 643, the liquid level in the control air passage 648 does not exceed the upper edge 681. Therefore, the boundary BD between the air layer AL and the liquid layer WL is located between the inflow end 683 and the opening 638.

(Generation control)
As shown in FIG. 15B, when the control unit 300 operates the blower fan 730, air flows into the control air path 648. As a result, the air layer AL fills the control air path 648. The boundary BD between the air layer AL and the liquid layer WL is located near the outflow end 684. The air passes through the outflow end 684 and flows into the liquid layer WL in the generation space 629. The air rises by buoyancy and reaches the punching plate 670. The punching plate 670 creates a large number of bubbles. As a result, high-density bubbles are formed in the generation space 629.

  As a result of the air layer AL filling the control air path 648, the liquid layer WL is separated from the opening 638. Accordingly, water hardly flows out from the housing 621 through the opening 638. The controller 300 may supply water into the housing 621 by rotating the circulation pump 610 together with the blower fan 730 at a high rotational speed as necessary. Around the opening 638, the air flows substantially horizontally, while the water supplied through the lower cylinder 623 flows upward. Therefore, the water can flow into the generation space 629 almost without being blocked by air.

(Drainage control)
As shown in FIG. 15C, when the controller 300 reduces the rotational speed of the blower fan 730 and stops the circulation pump 610, the boundary BD between the liquid layer WL and the air layer AL is set by the head of the liquid layer WL. , And located between the opening 638 and the inflow end 683. Since the space between the baffle plate 647 and the horizontal plate 632 is filled with the liquid layer WL, the water is discharged from the bubble generation unit 620 through the lower cylinder 623. If necessary, the controller 300 may then increase the rotational speed of the blower fan 730. As a result, as described with reference to FIG. 15B, the boundary BD is displaced to the vicinity of the outflow end 684, and the drainage is stopped.

Second Embodiment
FIG. 16 is a schematic block diagram of an exemplary washing machine 100A of the second embodiment. The washing machine 100A will be described with reference to FIGS. 1, 3, and 13 to 16. FIG. In addition, the same code | symbol is attached | subjected with respect to the element same as 1st Embodiment. Description of 1st Embodiment is used with respect to the element to which the same code | symbol was attached | subjected.

  As in the first embodiment, the washing machine 100A includes a main housing 200, a water supply mechanism 400, a washing mechanism 500, and a drying mechanism 700. The washing machine 100A further includes a control unit 300A and a circulation mechanism 600A. The control unit 300A performs the same control as the first embodiment on the water supply mechanism 400, the washing mechanism 500, and the drying mechanism 700.

  The circulation mechanism 600A may include all the elements of the circulation mechanism 600 described in the context of the first embodiment. The circulation mechanism 600A further includes a first valve 691 that opens and closes the first circulation path 611 and a second valve 692 that opens and closes the second circulation path 612. The first valve 691 and the second valve 692 operate under the control of the control unit 300A.

  In step S <b> 130 described with reference to FIG. 14, while the circulation pump 610 is operating, the control unit 300 </ b> A may open the second valve 692 while closing the first valve 691. As a result, during the process of homogenizing the detergent concentration in the circulated water, water does not unnecessarily flow into the foam generation unit 620.

  In step S160 described with reference to FIG. 14, while the circulation pump 610 is operating, the control unit 300A may open the first valve 691 and close the second valve 692. As a result, while the foam is supplied from the foam generation unit 620, water does not unnecessarily flow into the storage tank 510 through the second circulation path 612. Therefore, the foam can properly contact the clothing without being blocked by water flowing from the second circulation path 612.

  As described with reference to FIG. 13, a shower process may be performed after the foam cleaning process. In the shower process, the controller 300A may open the second valve 692 while closing the first valve 691. Control unit 300A may set the rotational speed of circulating pump 610 to a value between the rotational speed set in step S130 and the rotational speed set in step S160. As a result, the flow rate of water in the second branch pipe 652 is increased as compared with the bubble cleaning process. Since a relatively large amount of water flows into the water tank 540, the water is jetted toward the inlet 511. Thereafter, the water falls on the clothes in the rotating drum 530. Therefore, in the foam washing step, the high concentration surfactant contained in the foam film attached to the clothing can be appropriately infiltrated into the clothing. As a result, the clothes are effectively washed in the shower process.

  FIG. 17 is a conceptual diagram of a program related to the washing operation cycle of the washing machine 100A. The washing operation cycle of the washing machine 100A will be described with reference to FIGS.

(Step S210)
The symbol “n” in FIG. 17 is a parameter relating to a count value representing the number of executions of the bubble cleaning process and the shower process. In step S210, control unit 300A sets count value “n” to “0”. Thereafter, step S220 is executed.

(Step S220)
In step S220, a foam cleaning process is performed. The controller 300A opens the first valve 691 and closes the second valve 692. In addition, control unit 300A sets the rotational speed of circulation pump 610 to be higher than the rotational speed in the shower process. As a result, the flow rate of water passing through the first circulation path 611 is increased compared to the shower process. On the other hand, the flow rate of water passing through the second circulation path 612 is reduced compared to the shower process. When the bubble cleaning process is completed, step S230 is executed.

(Step S230)
In step S230, a shower process is performed. The control unit 300A closes the first valve 691, while opening the second valve 692. Further, the control unit 300A may set the rotational speed of the circulation pump 610 to be lower than the rotational speed in the foam cleaning process. As a result, the flow rate of water passing through the first circulation path 611 is reduced as compared with the bubble cleaning step. On the other hand, the flow rate of water passing through the second circulation path 612 is increased as compared with the bubble cleaning step. When the shower process is completed, step S240 is executed.

(Step S240)
In step S240, control unit 300A increases count value “n” by “1”. Thereafter, step S250 is executed.

(Step S250)
The symbol “N” in FIG. 17 is a threshold value determined for the count value “n”. In step S250, control unit 300A compares count value “n” with threshold value “N”. If the count value “n” exceeds the threshold value “N”, step S260 is executed. As a result, step S220 and step S230 are alternately performed until the count value “n” exceeds the threshold value “N”. In other cases, step S220 is executed.

(Step S260)
In step S260, a circulating stirring process is performed. In the circulation stirring step, the washing machine 100A may perform the same operation as a general washing machine (a washing machine not having a foam generation function) to wash clothes. Thereafter, step S270 is executed.

(Step S270)
In step S270, dirty water is drained from the washing machine 100A.

  The detailed design and layout of the various elements described above do not limit the principle of this embodiment. For example, the flow control of water or air for the above-described bubble generation unit can be achieved by various known piping techniques. Therefore, the apparatus and system brought about by the change from the above-mentioned embodiment, omission, and addition do not deviate from the principle of this embodiment at all.

  The principle of the present embodiment is preferably used for an apparatus having a function of cleaning clothes using foam.

100, 100A ... Washing machine 300, 300A ... Control unit 510 ... Storage tank 600, 600A ... circulation mechanism 620 ... foam generating part 621 ... casing 623 ... Lower cylinder 624 ... Air outlet 629 ...・ ・ Generation space 631 ・ ・ ・ ・ ・ ・ ・ ・ ・ ・ ・ L-shaped plate 632 ・ ・ ・ ・ ・ ・ ・ ・ ・ ・ ・ Horizontal plate 638 .... Opening part 641 ... Control plate 643 ... Limited edge 647 ...・ ・ ・ ・ ・ ・ ・ ・ ・ ・ ・ Baffle 648 ・ ・ ・ ・ ・ ・ ・ ・ ・ ・ ・ ・ ・ ・ ・Air passage 683 ... Inflow end 684 ... Outlet end 700 ...・ ・ ・ ・ Drying mechanism 730 ・ ・ ・ ・ ・ ・ ・ ・ ・ ・ ・ Blower fan AL ・ ・ ・ ・ ・ ・ ・ ・ ・ ・ ・ Air layer BD ・ ・ ・ ・ ・ ・・ ・ ・ ・ ・ ・ ・ ・ ・ ・ Boundary WL ・ ・ ・ ・ ・ ・ ・ ・ ・ ・ ・ Liquid layer

Claims (10)

A washing tank for washing clothes using a liquid containing a detergent;
A foam generating unit attached to the cleaning tank and including a generation space for generating foam;
A supply unit for supplying the liquid to the bubble generating unit;
A blowing section for sending air to the generation space,
The foam generation unit defines an opening through which the liquid from the supply unit to the generation space passes, and a flow path for guiding the air from the blower unit to the generation space,
The foam generating unit includes a connecting pipe unit that connects the opening and the supply unit,
The opening, seen extraordinary in the flow path,
The supply unit supplies the liquid to the bubble generation unit, creates a liquid layer in the generation space,
The air blower is a washing machine that guides the air to the connecting pipe and guides the air to the liquid layer spaced from the opening to generate the foam . The foam generating unit includes a channel wall that defines the channel,
The channel wall comprises opposing walls facing the opening
The washing machine according to claim 1. The foam generating unit includes a support wall that supports the liquid layer,
The opening is formed in the support wall.
The washing machine according to claim 1 . The bubble generation unit defines a blower port through which the air flows above the liquid layer.
The washing machine according to claim 1 . The flow path includes a first end opened in the air layer formed above the liquid layer, and a second end opened in the liquid layer.
The washing machine according to claim 4 . The connecting pipe portion extends below the generation space from the opening.
The washing machine according to any one of claims 3 to 5 . A control unit for controlling the air blowing unit;
The blower unit includes a blower fan that sends the air to the blower opening,
The said control part controls the rotation speed of the said ventilation fan, and discharges the said liquid in the said foam production | generation part from the said connection pipe part.
The washing machine according to claim 4 or 5 . The foam generating unit includes a standing wall that is erected from the support wall, and defines an air inlet through which the air flows above the liquid layer,
The standing wall includes a restriction edge that restricts a liquid level in the generation space;
The air blowing port is formed above the restriction edge.
The washing machine according to claim 3 . The flow path guides the air in a direction different from the liquid guide direction defined by the connecting pipe portion.
The washing machine according to any one of claims 3 to 8 . A drying mechanism for drying the clothes housed in the washing tank;
The blower unit includes a blower fan that sends the air to the blower opening,
The drying mechanism includes the blower fan
The washing machine according to claim 4 or 5 .

Images