JP6912900B2 - washing machine - Google Patents

Description

Embodiments of the present invention relate to washing machines.

Conventionally, the washing ability has been improved by immersing the laundry in water (hereinafter referred to as UFB water) containing fine bubbles having a particle size of less than 1 μm (hereinafter referred to as UFB (Ultra Fine Bubble)). There is a washing machine (see, for example, Patent Document 1). At this time, when the UFB water is permeated into the laundry, for example, the UFB water is supplied from above the washing / dehydrating tub and sprinkled on the laundry, or the UFB water is stored in the lower part of the washing / dehydrating tub to store the laundry. A method of soaking is conceivable.

Japanese Patent No. 5060976

However, in a washing machine for washing various clothes, it is assumed that it is difficult to immerse the laundry in UFB water. For example, when UFB water is supplied from above, the water pressure decreases when it passes through the fine bubble-containing portion containing UFB in the water, so that the flow rate decreases and the momentum of the supplied water decreases. As a result, it becomes difficult to evenly spray UFB water on the laundry. Alternatively, since laundry such as dry clothes easily floats on water, even if UFB water is stored in the lower part of the washing / dehydrating tub, it becomes difficult to permeate the floating clothes with UFB water.
Therefore, a washing machine capable of promoting the permeation of UFB water into the laundry is provided.

The washing machine according to the embodiment has a main body, a water tank provided in the main body, a washing / dehydrating tank rotatably provided in the water tank into which laundry is put, and fine bubbles in the water supplied to the washing / dehydrating tank. The washing and dehydrating tub is provided with a fine bubble-containing portion containing the above and a control unit for controlling the rotation of the washing and dehydrating tub and the supply of water to the washing and dehydrating tub during the water supply period in which water is supplied to the washing and dehydrating tub. To rotate.

The figure which shows typically the structure of the washing machine by 1st Embodiment The figure which shows typically an example of the water supply state when the washing and dehydrating tub is rotated. The figure which shows an example of the difference in the degree of washing between UFB water and tap water. The figure which shows typically an example of the water supply state when the washing dehydration tub in 2nd Embodiment is rotated. The figure which shows typically the structure of the UFB generator in the 3rd Embodiment A diagram schematically showing an example of the difference in the momentum of water supplied from the supply port. A diagram schematically showing an example of the supply ratio of UFB water and tap water during the water supply period. The figure which shows typically an example of the water supply state by 4th Embodiment The figure which shows typically the configuration example of the supply port by another embodiment.

Hereinafter, a plurality of embodiments will be described with reference to the drawings. In each embodiment, substantially the same constituent parts will be described with the same reference numerals.
(First Embodiment)

Hereinafter, the first embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 3. As shown in FIG. 1, the washing machine 1 includes a main body 2, a water tank 3, a washing / dehydrating tank 4, a stirring blade 5, a driving unit 6, a control unit 7, an operation panel 8, and the like. The main body 2 is formed in a substantially square columnar shape and houses a water tank 3 and the like. The water tank 3 is formed in a substantially bottomed cylindrical shape, and stores water in the washing process and the rinsing process. The washing / dehydrating tub 4 is rotatably provided in the water tub 3 and rotates relative to the water tub 3. In the dehydration process, the washing / dehydrating tub 4 rotates at a relatively high speed, so that water is discharged from clothes or the like by centrifugal force. During the washing operation, the opening of the water tank 3 is closed by the inner lid 4a.

The stirring blade 5 is also called a pulsator or the like, and can rotate integrally with the washing / dehydrating tub 4 and can rotate independently of the washing / dehydrating tub 4. The washing / dehydrating tank 4 and the stirring blade 5 are rotationally driven by a drive unit 6 having a clutch mechanism (not shown). Hereinafter, the rotation of the stirring blade 5 integrally with the washing / dehydrating tub 4 is referred to as an integral rotation for convenience, and the rotation of the stirring blade 5 independently of the washing / dehydrating tub 4 is conveniently performed independently. Called rotation. The integrated rotation and the independent rotation are switched by the clutch mechanism.

The control unit 7 is composed of a microcomputer having a CPU, a ROM, a RAM, and the like (not shown), and controls the entire washing machine 1. The control unit 7 controls the washing machine 1 according to the type of clothes, the driving course, and the like input from the operation panel 8. Further, although the details will be described later, the control unit 7 sets the target water level, the first water level, and the second water level.

The operation panel 8 has a power switch (not shown), a selection switch for selecting an operation course, an energy saving mode, etc., a weight setting switch that serves as a guide for the weight of the laundry 20 to be loaded, and a water level for setting the water level during the washing process. It consists of a switch, a display for displaying various information, and the like. The operation switch displays the time required for the washing operation, the current operation mode, and the like, as well as inputting the user's operation. In the case of the present embodiment, the operation panel 8 is also provided with a switch for selecting the type of detergent, that is, whether it is a liquid detergent or a powder detergent. The operation panel 8 corresponds to a detergent specific part.

Above the water tub 3 and the washing / dehydrating tub 4, a water supply path 9 for supplying water from above the washing / dehydrating tub 4 into the washing / dehydrating tub 4 is provided. The water supply path 9 includes a water supply valve unit 10, a detergent case 11, a supply port 12, a UFB generator 13, and the like. The water supply valve unit 10 is provided with a tap water introduction port 14 connected to a faucet to introduce tap water and a bath water introduction port 15 for introducing bath water or the like. The bath water introduction port 15 does not necessarily have to be provided, and may be configured to be also used as the tap water introduction port 14. In the case of the present embodiment, the supply port 12 is provided so as to be located radially outside the center of rotation of the washing / dehydrating tub 4. Further, the supply port 12 is provided so as to open horizontally or diagonally downward.

Inside the water supply valve unit 10, a water supply valve 16 that switches the flow of water to the first path via the UFB generator 13 and a water supply valve that switches the flow of water to the second path that does not pass through the UFB generator 13. 17 is provided.

The detergent used for washing is put into the detergent case 11. Both liquid detergent and powder detergent can be put into the detergent case 11. In addition, a softener case for charging the softener may be further provided. In this embodiment, the detergent case 11 is provided in the water supply path 9. Therefore, water in which the detergent is dissolved is supplied to the washing / dehydrating tub 4. In other words, the detergent charged in the detergent case 11 is supplied into the washing / dehydrating tub 4 from above the washing / dehydrating tub 4 together with the water flowing through the water supply path 9.

The UFB generator 13 generates fine bubbles 13b (see FIG. 4) having a particle size of less than about 1 micron, and the generated fine bubbles 13b are contained in the water flowing through the water supply path 9. The fine bubbles 13b having a particle size of less than about 1 micron are also called UFB (Ultra Fine Bubbles) and are known to improve washing performance. Hereinafter, water containing fine bubbles 13b will be referred to as UFB water for convenience. The UFB generator 13 corresponds to a fine bubble-containing portion.

Further, the washing / dehydrating tub 4 is provided with a weight sensor 18 for detecting the weight of the laundry 20. In the present embodiment, the control unit 7 sets a target water level, which is the water level during the washing process, based on the weight of the laundry 20 detected by the weight sensor 18. The weight sensor 18 may directly detect the weight, but the weight sensor 18 indirectly detects the weight by estimating based on the control value when the control unit 7 controls the motor of the drive unit 6. There may be. As described above, the weight can also be set from the operation panel 8. The weight sensor 18 and the control unit 7 correspond to a weight specifying unit that specifies the weight of the laundry 20.

Further, the washing machine 1 is provided with a water level sensor 19 as a water level specifying unit that directly detects the water level in an air tube (not shown) connected to the water tank 3. The water level sensor 19 corresponds to a water level detection unit. The position and configuration of the water level sensor 19 are not limited to this. For example, the time when water is supplied is measured by an internal timer of the control unit 7, the total amount of water supplied is obtained from the measured time and the flow rate of water, and the water level is indirectly detected based on the total amount of water. It may be configured. In that case, for example, the control unit 7 corresponds to the water level detection unit.

Next, the operation of the above configuration will be described.

As described above, it is considered that the washing ability can be improved by immersing the laundry 20 in UFB water. However, when it passes through the UFB generator 13, the water pressure drops, so that the flow rate decreases. As a result, as shown in FIG. 2A, the water supply state in the washing / dehydrating tub 4 is such that the range in which the UFB water is directly sprinkled (R1; hereinafter referred to as the water supply range) becomes relatively small, and the washing is performed. It may be difficult to evenly spray UFB water on the object 20a. Alternatively, since the laundry 20a such as dry clothes and especially synthetic shirts and underwear easily floats on water, even if the UFB water is stored from the lower part of the washing / dehydrating tank 4, the UFB water is stored. It becomes difficult to penetrate.

At this time, it is considered that UFB water can be efficiently permeated in a drum-type washing machine in which the axis of rotation is horizontal or slightly upward and the clothes are washed by a tap-washing method in which clothes are lifted and dropped. However, in the case of a vertical washing machine such as the washing machine 1 of the present embodiment in which the mechanical force when the stirring blade 5 is rotated and the water flow generated by the mechanical force are used for washing, the UFB water permeates the floating clothes. It takes time to make it happen.

Therefore, in the washing machine 1 of the present embodiment, in the vertical washing machine into which various clothes are put, UFB water is efficiently permeated into the laundry 20 as follows.

First, the basic flow of the washing operation in the washing machine 1 will be described. When the water supply valve 16 is turned on and the water supply is started, the washing machine 1 supplies UFB water while interlocking the washing / dehydrating tank 4 and the stirring blade 5 and rotating them integrally. FIG. 2A shows an example in which water is supplied without rotating the washing / dehydrating tub 4. In the case of FIG. 2A, the UFB water supplied from the supply port 12 is spot-supplied to one location in the water supply range (R1). Therefore, if UFB water is accumulated in that state, the relatively light laundry 20a such as clothes will float on the UFB water.

On the other hand, the washing machine 1 supplies water while rotating the washing / dehydrating tub 4 during the water supply period for supplying UFB water to the washing / dehydrating tub 4. Further, the supply port 12 is provided so as to be located radially outside the center of rotation of the washing / dehydrating tub 4. Therefore, even if the UFB water supplied from the supply port 12 is spot-supplied to the water supply range (R1), the washing / dehydrating tub 4 rotates, so that the water supply range (B) is shown in FIG. R2) becomes donut-shaped along the washing / dehydrating tub 4, and UFB water falls on the entire laundry 20.

As a result, UFB water is sprinkled on the laundry 20 as a whole, and when the wet laundry 20 becomes a weight and UFB water collects in the washing / dehydrating tub 4, the laundry 20 becomes UFB by its own weight. It is drawn into the water and is also drawn into the UFB water in the form of being pushed by the laundry 20 which is located above and has already been infiltrated with the UFB water. As a result, UFB water can be infiltrated into the laundry 20.

Further, in the case of the relatively light laundry 20a, when the laundry 20a enters the water supply range (R1) as the laundry rotates, UFB water falls from above. As a result, UFB water can be permeated into the relatively light laundry 20a. Further, since the washing / dehydrating tub 4 is rotated, the laundry 20a that floats on the water moves within the water supply range (R1, R2) due to the centrifugal force, so that the UFB water falls even more. Therefore, the penetration of UFB water can be promoted.

FIG. 3 is an example of a comparison result of cleaning ability between UFB water and tap water. As shown in FIG. 3 (A), the degree of cleaning indicating the cleaning ability of UFB water with respect to sebum stains is improved by about 15% in a simple numerical ratio as compared with the degree of cleaning of tap water. There is. Further, with respect to coffee stains, the degree of cleaning of UFB water is improved by about 50% as compared with the degree of cleaning of tap water. In addition, coffee stains are improved by about 40% in a simple numerical ratio. As a result, it was confirmed that the cleaning ability was improved when UFB water was supplied.

According to the embodiment described above, the following effects can be obtained.

The washing machine 1 rotates the washing / dehydrating tub 4 during the water supply period for supplying UFB water to the washing / dehydrating tub 4. This can promote the permeation of UFB water into the laundry.

Further, since the washing / dehydrating tub 4 is rotated, the laundry 20a that floats on the water moves within the water supply range (R1, R2) due to the centrifugal force, so that the UFB water falls even more. Therefore, the penetration of UFB water can be promoted.

Further, the washing machine 1 is provided so that the supply port 12 is located radially outside the center of rotation of the washing / dehydrating tub 4. As a result, when the washing / dehydrating tub 4 is rotated, the water supply range (R2) is formed in the washing / dehydrating tub 4 in a donut shape as shown in FIG. UFB water can be sprinkled efficiently. Therefore, even when the flow rate is relatively small, the UFB water can be effectively permeated into the laundry 20, which can lead to an improvement in the cleaning effect.

Further, the washing machine 1 is provided with a detergent case 11 on the downstream side of the UFB generator 13 in the water supply path 9 for accommodating the detergent to be supplied into the washing / dehydrating tub 4 from the supply port 12 together with the UFB water. As a result, since the detergent is dissolved in UFB water, it is supplied in a state where the interface is activated by the action of the fine bubbles 13b. Therefore, the cleaning performance can be improved.

(Second Embodiment)
Hereinafter, the second embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. The configuration of the washing machine 1 is the same as that of the first embodiment.

As described in the first embodiment described above, by rotating the washing / dehydrating tub 4 during the water supply period, the UFB water can be effectively permeated into the laundry 20. However, when the laundry continues to rotate at a constant speed (hereinafter referred to as continuous rotation for convenience), the UFB water cannot be effectively permeated into the laundry 20 due to the action of centrifugal force. Is also possible.

Specifically, as shown in FIG. 4A, when the centrifugal force (F1) acts, the UFB water sprinkled on the upper part of the laundry 20 is pushed out to the outer peripheral side of the washing / dehydrating tub 4 by the centrifugal force. Alternatively, the water supply state is such that the outer peripheral side of the washing / dehydrating tub 4 is repelled at the moment when the laundry 20 is applied. As a result, the laundry 20 located on the central side of the washing / dehydrating tub 4 may not come into direct contact with the UFB water pouring down from the upper part or the UFB water already stored, and the UFB water may not permeate. If the UFB water does not permeate the laundry 20, it does not become a weight. Therefore, even if the UFB water is stored in the washing / dehydrating tank 4, the clothes may float and the permeation of the UFB water may be hindered. ..

Therefore, the washing machine 1 of the present embodiment sets a deceleration period in which the rotation of the washing / dehydrating tub 4 is decelerated from the above-mentioned constant speed or a stop period in which the rotation of the washing / dehydrating tub 4 is stopped during the water supply period. .. At this time, the washing / dehydrating tub 4 may be operated intermittently by alternately or periodically setting the deceleration period and the stop period (hereinafter, referred to as intermittent rotation for convenience).

Further, the washing machine 1 makes the rotation speed when rotating the washing and dehydrating tub 4 during the water supply period lower than the rotation speed when rotating the washing and dehydrating tub 4 during the dehydration stroke. That is, the laundry 20 is rotated at a speed that does not stick to the inner peripheral wall of the washing / dehydrating tub 4.

As a result, during the deceleration period, as shown in FIG. 4B, the generated centrifugal force (F2) becomes smaller than the centrifugal force (F1) when rotated at a constant speed. That is, the amount of UFB water pushed out to the outer peripheral side of the washing / dehydrating tub 4 is reduced. Therefore, UFB water can be permeated into the laundry 20.

Alternatively, during the stop period, as shown in FIG. 4C, no centrifugal force is generated, so that the UFB water becomes even in the washing / dehydrating tub 4. As a result, the laundry 20 is drawn into the UFB water by being pushed downward by the weighted laundry 20 while the water is distributed throughout. Therefore, UFB water can be permeated into the laundry 20.

Further, the washing machine 1 rotates the washing / dehydrating tub 4 at a speed lower than the rotation speed at which the washing / dehydrating tub 4 is rotated in the dehydration stroke, and the laundry 20 does not stick to the inner peripheral wall of the washing / dehydrating tub 4. Let me. As a result, the centrifugal force applied to the UFB water can be made relatively small, and the UFB water can be prevented from permeating only into the laundry 20 located on the inner peripheral wall side of the washing / dehydrating tub 4.

(Third Embodiment)
Hereinafter, the third embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 5 to 7. The configuration of the washing machine 1 is the same as that of the first embodiment. Further, also in the present embodiment, the continuous rotation, the intermittent rotation or the stop of the washing / dehydrating tub 4 is appropriately controlled during the water supply period.

As shown in FIG. 5, the UFB generator 13 is provided with a protruding squeezing portion 13a in the flow path of the water so that the cross-sectional area is reduced to reduce the pressure of the water, and the pressure applied to the water is reduced from the atmospheric pressure to a negative pressure. By doing so, the air dissolved in the water is precipitated and the fine bubbles 13b are contained in the water. At this time, the flow rate of water is reduced by passing through the UFB generator 13. Specifically, for example, when water is supplied to the UFB generator 13 at a flow rate of W1, the flow rate of water after passing through the UFB generator 13 is, for example, W2, which is smaller than that of W1.

Therefore, when only the water that has passed through the UFB generator 13 is supplied to the washing / dehydrating tub 4, it is discharged from the supply port 12 that opens horizontally or diagonally downward as shown in FIG. 6 (A). As the momentum of water becomes relatively small, the way it spreads, that is, the water supply range also becomes relatively small. Further, since the flow rate of the supplied water is W2, which is smaller than W1, the time to reach the target water level is relatively long. However, the ratio of UFB water contained in the water supplied to the washing / dehydrating tank 4 becomes the maximum (100%), and the action of the fine bubbles 13b can be fully utilized.

On the other hand, when only the water that does not pass through the UFB generator 13 is supplied to the washing / dehydrating tub 4, the momentum of the water discharged from the supply port 12 becomes relatively large as shown in FIG. 6B. , The way it spreads is also relatively large. That is, the water supply range in which water can be supplied increases. Further, since the flow rate of the supplied water is W1 which is larger than W2, the time to reach the target water level is relatively short. However, in this case, the ratio of UFB water contained in the water supplied to the washing / dehydrating tank 4 becomes the minimum (0%), and the action of the fine bubbles 13b does not occur.

That is, there are merits and demerits in the case of supplying only the UFB water that has passed through the UFB generator 13 and the case of supplying only the water that does not pass through the UFB generator 13.

Therefore, in the washing machine 1 of the present embodiment, the path of the water supplied from the supply port 12 is either the first path side that passes through the UFB generator 13 or the second path side that does not pass through the UFB generator 13. Water is supplied to the washing / dehydrating tub 4 while switching to a path through which the path passes, or a path passing through both the first path side and the second path side, or with the path of water flowing through the water supply path 9 fixed. The state in which the water path is fixed means that the path is not switched.

Specifically, in the case of a route passing through both the first route side and the second route side, the state of water supplied to the washing / dehydrating tub 4 is the state of FIG. 6 (A) in which only UFB water is supplied (hereinafter). , For convenience, referred to as UFB water single water supply) and the state of FIG. 6 (B) (hereinafter, for convenience, referred to as tap water single water supply) (hereinafter, for convenience, referred to as mixed water supply). Become. Therefore, the flow rate, that is, the water supply time required to reach the target water level has the following relationship.
UFB water single water supply <Mixed water supply <Tap water single water supply

On the other hand, the ratio of UFB water, that is, the effect of improving the cleaning ability by the fine bubbles 13b has the following relationship.
UFB water single water supply ＞ Mixed water supply ＞ Tap water single water supply

By the way, the mixing ratio of UFB water and tap water can be switched depending on the type of washing operation. For example, if the amount of laundry 20 input is large, the target amount of water to be supplied will increase accordingly. At this time, since the flow rate is small in the case of UFB water alone water supply, if the laundry is washed only with UFB water, the time required to reach the target water level becomes long, and the time required for the washing operation becomes long. Become. Further, if the mixing ratio of UFB water is high, the washing ability is improved, so that it is considered that the washing process time can be shortened by that amount, but as shown in FIG. 3 above, there is a limit to the improvement of the washing ability. There is also. In addition, there is a concern that the usability for the user may be deteriorated due to the lengthening of the time required for the washing operation.

Therefore, it is desired to control the cleaning performance by using UFB water so as not to cause deterioration of usability. For that purpose, it is desirable to switch the mixing ratio of UFB water and tap water depending on the trade-off between cleaning capacity and water supply time. At this time, it is desirable to switch the mixing ratio depending on the amount of laundry 20.

Therefore, in the washing machine 1 of the present embodiment, during the water supply period, water is supplied to the washing / dehydrating tub 4 while switching the path of the water flowing through the water supply path 9 or fixing the path of the water flowing through the water supply path 9. To supply.

Water supply example I shown in FIG. 7 is a water supply example when the amount of laundry 20 is large, and in this case, the target water level is, for example, about 60 liters. The washing machine 1 supplies only UFB water in the first half of the water supply period, or more strictly, in the present embodiment, at the beginning of the water supply period, and then supplies only tap water. In FIG. 7, the range with the diagonal hatching shows the water supply of only UFB water, and the range with the horizontal hatching shows only the tap water or the water supply in which tap water and the UFB are mixed. There is.

More specifically, in a configuration in which the detergent case 11 exists on the downstream side of the UFB generator 13, a predetermined time (predetermined period) from the start of the water supply period in which the detergent is estimated to remain in the detergent case 11. (Here, 30 seconds), water is supplied from the first route (UFB water alone), and after a predetermined time elapses, water is supplied only through the second route (tap water alone). It should be noted that the UFB water may be mixed water supply instead of the single water supply.

It is considered that the total amount of the detergent contained in the detergent case 11 can be supplied to the washing / dehydrating tank 4 if there is approximately 2 to 3 liters of water. At this time, assuming that the flow rate in the case of only UFB water is 6 liters per minute, a liquid in which UFB water and detergent are mixed (hereinafter, referred to as a cleaning liquid for convenience) can be supplied in about 20 seconds. .. That is, at the beginning of the water supply period, the detergent stored in the detergent case 11 can be dissolved in the UFB water by supplying only the UFB water in a state of being fixed to the first path. In the case of tap water alone, the flow rate is approximately 15 liters per minute.

At this time, since the dispersibility of the detergent is improved by the fine bubbles 13b, the cleaning liquid can be effectively permeated into the laundry 20 as compared with the case where only tap water is used, and the cleaning ability can be improved. can. Further, the washing machine 1 supplies tap water alone in a state of being fixed to the second path in the latter half of the water supply period, more strictly, after a predetermined time has elapsed. As a result, the time required to reach the target water level can be significantly reduced as compared with the case where only UFB water is supplied alone, and deterioration of usability can be suppressed.

Further, the water supply example II shown in FIG. 7 is a water supply example when the amount of the laundry 20 is usually, for example, about 3 kg to 6 kg, which is frequently used in actual use, and in this case, the target water level is, for example, about 40 liters. Is. In this case as well, the washing machine 1 supplies UFB water alone at the beginning of the water supply period in which the detergent remains in the detergent case 11, while tap water alone and UFB water alone are supplied thereafter at predetermined time intervals. Water is supplied while switching. That is, the washing machine 1 supplies water while switching the path of water flowing through the water supply path 9 between the first path and the second path. As a result, the cleaning ability can be improved while preventing the water supply time from becoming excessively long.

Further, the water supply example III shown in FIG. 7 is a water supply example when the amount of the laundry 20 is small, and in this case, the target water level is, for example, about 20 liters. In this case, the target water level can be reached in about 3 minutes even if the UFB water is supplied alone. In other words, even if water is supplied by a route that maximizes the cleaning ability, it is considered that the usability does not deteriorate so much. Therefore, the washing machine 1 supplies UFB water alone, that is, the water supply path 9 is fixed to the first path until the target water level is reached.

As described above, the washing machine 1 of the present embodiment supplies UFB water to the first half of the water supply period in which the detergent remains in the detergent case 11 or a part of the first half including the initial part of the water supply period to exert the detergent effect. On the other hand, by changing the mixing ratio of UFB water and tap water according to the target water level, both improvement of cleaning ability and prevention of deterioration of usability are realized.

Then, by using such a control method, in the early stage of the water supply period in which the detergent remains in the detergent case 11, water is always supplied with UFB water to improve the cleaning ability, and in the latter half of the water supply period. Can shorten the water supply time by supplying tap water alone by the second route.

Further, in the present embodiment, the washing machine 1 increases the amount of water supplied by the second route that does not pass through the UFB generator 13 as the amount of water required for washing increases. As a result, it is possible to prevent the water supply time from becoming excessively long. Further, when the amount of the laundry 20 is small, the usability is not significantly impaired even if only the water is supplied by UFB water, and the washing ability can be greatly improved.

By the way, in order to effectively permeate the detergent into the laundry 20, it is conceivable that UFB water is supplied to the detergent case 11 and then supplied to the washing / dehydrating tank 4 as a cleaning liquid as in the present embodiment. It is also conceivable to supply water through a flow path that does not pass through the UFB generator 13 in advance to reduce the bulk of the laundry 20, that is, to supply the UFB water in a state where the laundry 20 is put together. This is because it is considered that the laundry 20 having a reduced volume can quickly permeate the UFB water because the clothes are in a state of being gathered together.

Therefore, for example, as in Water Supply Example IV shown in FIG. 7, tap water alone may be supplied at the beginning of the water supply period to reduce the bulk of the laundry 20, and then UFB water alone may be supplied.

Further, by changing the mixing ratio of UFB water and tap water, the size and position of the water supply range (R1; see FIG. 2) in the washing / dehydrating tank 4 can be changed. That is, the shape of the water discharged from the supply port 12 can be changed.

In the case of UFB water single water supply, as shown in FIG. 6A, the water supply range (R1) is located relatively close to the supply port 12. On the other hand, in the case of tap water single water supply, as shown in FIG. 6B, the water supply range (R1) is at a position relatively separated from the supply port 12. Further, in the case of mixed water supply, as shown in FIG. 6C, the position is between the UFB water single water supply and the tap water single water supply, but by changing the mixing ratio, the position of the water supply range can be changed. The size can be changed from the position of the UFB water alone to the position of the tap water alone. That is, the water supply valves 16 and 17 change the momentum of the water supplied from the supply port 12 so that the position of the water supply range (see R1) on which the water supplied from the supply port 12 falls is viewed in a plan view of the washing / dehydrating tub 4. It functions as an adjustment unit that can be adjusted stepwise from the outside to the center side in the radial direction.

Therefore, while changing the mixing ratio of UFB water and tap water, that is, the flow rate of water supplied from the supply port 12 is changed by adjusting the amount of water supplied from the first path and the amount of water supplied from the second path. By rotating the washing / dehydrating tub 4 while allowing the washing / dehydrating tub 4 to rotate, water can be more effectively permeated into the entire laundry 20.

In this case, when UFB water is supplied alone to supply water via the UFB generator 13, or when mixed water is supplied with a relatively high mixing ratio of UFB water, and when tap water is supplied alone without passing through the UFB generator 13. Alternatively, the rotation speed may be changed at the time of mixed water supply in which the mixing ratio of UFB water is relatively low. Further, the washing / dehydrating tub 4 may be stopped when the UFB water is supplied alone or when the mixed water has a relatively high mixing ratio of the UFB water. This is because when tap water is supplied alone or when mixed water is supplied in which the mixing ratio of UFB water is relatively low, the flow rate increases and the water is less likely to be repelled even if the rotation speed is increased.

(Fourth Embodiment)
Hereinafter, the fourth embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. The configuration of the washing machine 1 is the same as that of the first embodiment.

When the washing / dehydrating tub 4 is rotated during the water supply period, water can be more effectively permeated into the laundry 20 by appropriately controlling the rotation speed. As described above, the flow rate is reduced when passing through the UFB generator 13. At this time, when the washing / dehydrating tub 4 is rotated at a high speed of about 400 rpm to 1000 rpm, which is the number of rotations during the dehydration stroke, water having a small flow rate is repelled when it touches the laundry 20, and most of the water is washed. There is a risk that it will not penetrate the laundry 20 because it may move closer to the outer peripheral side of the dehydration tub 4 or may go out into the water tub 3 through the holes provided in the washing / dehydrating tub 4. In addition, it becomes difficult to permeate the stored UFB water into the laundry 20.

Therefore, the washing machine 1 is not rotated at a rotation speed as high as the rotation speed of the dehydration stroke, but is rotated at a low speed of, for example, about 20 rpm, so that even UFB water having a small flow rate can be shown in FIG. In addition, UFB water can be effectively permeated into the laundry 20, and the washing ability can be improved.

At this time, when supplying UFB water, it is preferable to lower the rotation speed of the washing / dehydrating tub 4 as compared with the case of supplying tap water. For example, in the case of UFB water single supply, 20 rpm as described above, in the case of mixed supply, 30 rpm, in the case of tap water single supply, 40 rpm, etc., depending on the state of the water supply valve 16 and the water supply valve 17. That is, the number of rotations of the washing / dehydrating tub 4 may be changed according to the type of water to be supplied. This is because if the momentum of the water supplied from the supply port 12 is increased, the risk of being repelled even if the rotation speed is increased is reduced, and the water can be permeated into the laundry 20. In addition, since water accumulates relatively quickly in the case of tap water alone supply, water permeates further into the laundry 20 by moving the laundry 20 at a higher speed than in the case of UFB water supply alone. It can also be expected to be easier.

Further, when the washing machine 1 rotates the washing / dehydrating tub 4 at a constant speed during the water supply period, the rotation speed is lower than the dehydration stroke, but the centrifugal force applied to the laundry 20 is greater than or equal to the force applied in the direction of gravity. It may be rotated at a speed, for example, about 100 rpm to 200 rpm. This is because when the centrifugal force applied to the laundry 20 is less than the force applied in the direction of gravity , the laundry 20 spreads in the washing / dehydrating tub 4 as shown in FIG. 8 (A), and the water supply range (R2). Although it is considered that the laundry is located outside, when the centrifugal force applied to the laundry 20 is greater than or equal to the force applied in the direction of gravity , the laundry 20 is inside the washing / dehydrating tub 4 as shown in FIG. 8 (B). This is because the laundry 20 is located within the water supply range (R2) as a whole by moving closer to the peripheral wall side, and can directly touch the supplied water.

UFB water can be efficiently permeated into the laundry 20 even at such a rotation speed. In this case, as described above, when UFB water is supplied alone or when mixed water has a relatively high mixing ratio of UFB water, and when tap water is supplied alone or when water is supplied without passing through the UFB generator 13, or relatively UFB water is supplied. It is also possible to change the rotation speed at the time of mixed water supply in which the mixing ratio is low, that is, according to the difference in the water supply position.

(Other embodiments)
In the embodiment, the washing machine 1 having no drying function is illustrated, but the present invention can be applied even to a washing / drying machine having a drying function.

In the embodiment, an example is shown in which the position of the water supply range (R1) can be changed by changing the momentum of the water supplied from the supply port 12, but as shown in FIG. 9A, for example, the supply port 12 May be formed so as to extend in the radial direction in the plan view of the washing / dehydrating tub 4 so as to have a water supply range (R3) extending in the radial direction. In this case, for example, by providing a plurality of openings in the supply port 12 as shown in FIG. 9B, a water supply range (R3) extending in the radial direction can be formed. Alternatively, the supply port 12 may be made movable or expandable in the radial direction in the plan view of the washing / dehydrating tub 4 to form a water supply range (R3) extending in the radial direction.

When the water level detected by the water level detection unit such as the water level sensor 19 reaches a preset first water level during the water supply period, the washing machine 1 stops the rotation of the washing / dehydrating tub 4 while the stirring blade 5 is moved. It may be rotated independently. The first water level may be set based on, for example, a ratio to a target water level, a ratio to the capacity of the washing / dehydrating tub 4, and the like. Of course, the first water level is less than the target water level.

As described above, since the laundry 20 made of silk material or 100% synthetic fiber material does not easily absorb water and repels water, it is assumed that water is supplied while rotating the washing / dehydrating tank 4 (tank rotation water supply). However, in some cases, it may be difficult to infiltrate UFB water. On the other hand, if water is stored in the washing / dehydrating tub 4 to some extent, for example, about 1/4 of that of the washing / dehydrating tub 4, the water flow generated by the rotation and the stirring blade 5 are generated by rotating 5 with good stirring. By the mechanical force of itself, it is possible to draw the laundry 20 in the washing / dehydrating tub 4 into water and change the vertical position of the laundry 20.

Therefore, by setting a predetermined first water level and controlling the rotation of the stirring blade 5 when the first water level is reached, the UFB water is effectively permeated into the laundry 20 in the washing / dehydrating tub 4. Can be done.

Further, in the embodiment, the configuration in which both the first route and the second route pass through the detergent case 11 is illustrated, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, UFB water passes through the detergent case 11 but the second route does not pass through the detergent case 11, UFB water does not pass through the detergent case 11 and the second route passes through the detergent case 11. The structure may be such that it passes through the detergent case 11 but does not come into contact with the detergent. Further, in the case of such a configuration, the period for supplying UFB water does not have to be the first half of the above-mentioned water supply period, and the water supply that does not pass through the UFB generator 13 as in the water supply example 4 of FIG. 7 is the initial stage of the water supply period. The UFB water supply may be started in a state where the bulk of the laundry 20 is reduced. Of course, even with such a configuration, it is possible to adjust the water supply range by varying the momentum of water by enabling mixed supply by using only one supply port 12.

The mixing ratio of UFB water and tap water may be switched continuously or stepwise. For example, UFB water alone may be supplied at the beginning of the water supply period, and the proportion of tap water may be gradually increased after a predetermined time has elapsed.

The mixing ratio of UFB water and tap water may be switched according to the driving course selected by the user. For example, if it is possible to set a standard course for standard washing operation, a firm course for removing dirt firmly, a speedy course for quick washing, etc., in the firm course, in order to remove dirt firmly, Even if the water supply time is long, it is desirable to supply a large amount of UFB water. That is, it is considered that the user's request is to remove dirt rather than the length of washing time, and in such a case, it is preferable to supply a large amount of UFB water.

Even if UFB water is supplied alone at the beginning of the water supply period, for example, tap water is supplied alone until 90% of the target water level is reached, and then UFB water is supplied again until the target water level is reached. good. As a result, UFB water can be supplied in a state where water is accumulated to some extent, that is, in a state where the laundry 20 can easily move, and contact between the fine bubbles 13b and the laundry 20 can be promoted.

In the embodiment, the water supply period at the start of the washing operation has been described, but when water is supplied in the rinsing process after the washing process, either UFB single water supply, mixed water supply, or tap water single water supply, or any of them. Water may be supplied in combination. This makes it possible to promote the dissolution of the detergent remaining in the laundry 20, and it is expected that the finished quality will be improved when the washing operation is completed. Further, a softener case for accommodating the softener may be provided in a path through which UFB water flows, for example, in the water supply path 9. As a result, the solubility of the softener is increased by the UFB water, and improvement in the finished quality can be expected.

Although some embodiments of the present invention have been described, these embodiments are presented as examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These novel embodiments can be implemented in various other embodiments, and various omissions, replacements, and changes can be made without departing from the gist of the invention. These embodiments and modifications thereof are included in the scope and gist of the invention, and are also included in the scope of the invention described in the claims and the equivalent scope thereof.

In the drawing, 1 is a washing machine, 2 is a main body, 3 is a water tank, 4 is a rinsing / dehydrating tank, 5 is a stirring blade, 7 is a control unit, 9 is a water supply path, 11 is a detergent case, 12 is a supply port, and 13 is a UFB. The generator (fine bubble-containing part), 13b is a fine bubble, 16 and 17 are water supply valves, and 20 and 20a are laundry.

Claims (11)

With the main body
The water tank provided in the main body and
A washing / dehydrating tub that is rotatably provided in the water tub and into which laundry is put.
A supply port for supplying water to the washing / dehydrating tank and
A throttle portion is provided in the water flow path, and the water flowing through the flow path is depressurized by the throttle portion to precipitate dissolved air, so that the water supplied to the washing and dehydrating tank contains fine bubbles. Bubble-containing part and
The water supply path of water introduced into the main body and supplied from the supply port passes through either the first path side that passes through the fine bubble-containing portion or the second path side that does not pass through the fine bubble-containing portion. A water supply valve that switches to a route or a route that passes through both the first route side and the second route side.
A control unit that controls the rotation of the washing / dehydrating tub and the supply of water to the washing / dehydrating tub is provided.
The control unit rotates the washing / dehydrating tub during the water supply period for supplying water to the washing / dehydrating tub, and switches the path of water flowing through the water supply path during the water supply period, or the water supply path. A washing machine characterized in that water is supplied to the washing / dehydrating tub with a fixed path of water flowing through the washing machine. With the main body
The water tank provided in the main body and
A washing / dehydrating tub that is rotatably provided in the water tub and into which laundry is put.
A supply port for supplying water to the washing / dehydrating tank and
A fine bubble-containing portion that contains fine bubbles in the water supplied to the washing / dehydrating tank, and
A control unit that controls the rotation of the washing / dehydrating tub and the supply of water to the washing / dehydrating tub is provided.
The control unit rotates the washing / dehydrating tub during the water supply period for supplying water to the washing / dehydrating tub, and does not pass through the water passing through the fine bubble-containing portion and the fine bubble-containing portion during the water supply period. A washing machine characterized in that the flow rate of supplied water is changed by changing the mixing ratio with water. With the main body
The water tank provided in the main body and
A washing / dehydrating tub that is rotatably provided in the water tub and into which laundry is put.
A supply port for supplying water to the washing / dehydrating tank and
A fine bubble-containing portion that contains fine bubbles in the water supplied to the washing / dehydrating tank, and
A control unit that controls the rotation of the washing / dehydrating tub and the supply of water to the washing / dehydrating tub is provided.
The control unit rotates the washing / dehydrating tub during the water supply period for supplying water to the washing / dehydrating tub, and when supplying water via the fine bubble-containing portion, the water does not pass through the fine bubble-containing portion. A washing machine characterized in that the number of rotations of the washing / dehydrating tub is lower than that in the case of supplying. In the water supply period, the control unit sets a deceleration period for decelerating the rotation of the washing / dehydrating tub or a stop period for stopping the rotation of the washing / dehydrating tub, and intermittently switches the washing / dehydrating tub during the water supply period. The washing machine according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the washing machine is operated. The washing machine is capable of at least performing a washing process, a rinsing process, and a dehydration process.
From claim 1, the control unit makes the rotation speed at which the washing / dehydrating tub is rotated during the water supply period lower than the rotation speed at which the washing / dehydrating tub is rotated during the dehydration stroke. The washing machine according to any one of 4. The washing machine according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the supply port is provided so as to be located radially outside the center of rotation of the washing / dehydrating tub. Any of claims 1 to 6, wherein the control unit rotates the washing / dehydrating tub at a rotation speed that is equal to or greater than a force applied in the direction of gravity when the washing / dehydrating tub is rotated during the water supply period. The washing machine described in item 1. A stirring blade provided in the washing / dehydrating tub and capable of rotating integrally with the washing / dehydrating tub and rotating independently of the washing / dehydrating tub.
It is equipped with a water level detection unit that directly or indirectly detects the water level of the supplied water based on the time when the water is supplied.
When the water level detected by the water level detection unit reaches a preset first water level during the water supply period, the control unit stops the rotation of the washing / dehydrating tub while rotating the stirring blade independently. The washing machine according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the washing machine is made to rotate. A detergent case provided on the downstream side of the fine bubble-containing portion in the water supply path of the water supplied from the supply port and accommodating the detergent supplied from the supply port into the washing / dehydrating tub together with the water containing the fine bubbles. The washing machine according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the washing machine is provided with. The washing machine according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the control unit supplies water via the fine bubble-containing portion at the beginning of the water supply period. The control unit is characterized in that it supplies water that does not pass through the fine bubble-containing portion for an initial predetermined period of the water supply period, and then starts supplying water via the fine bubble-containing portion. The washing machine according to any one of claims 1 to 10.

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