JP7397819B2 - washing machine - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to a washing machine.

Conventionally, washing machines equipped with a detergent supply device that measures laundry processing liquids such as detergent and fabric softener (finishing agents) stored in a tank and automatically feeds the appropriate amount of washing processing liquids into a washing and dehydrating tank have been known. ing. The detergent supply device includes a three-way valve unit that selectively discharges the detergent contained in the detergent tank and the softener contained in the softener tank to the piston pump unit.

The three-way valve unit includes a detergent-side three-way valve, a softener-side three-way valve, a detergent-side coil that switches and operates the detergent-side three-way valve, and a softener-side coil that switches and operates the softener-side three-way valve. .

Then, the detergent side coil and the softener side coil operate the three-way valve on the detergent side and the three-way valve on the softener side to supply detergent and softener to the piston pump unit, and from the piston pump unit to the washing and dehydrating tank. We are trying to supply the drug.

As such a technique, for example, there is a technique described in Patent Document 1.

JP2019-92690A

In the technology described in Patent Document 1, a detergent side coil, a softener side coil that operates a detergent side three-way valve, a softener side three-way valve, and a drive motor of a piston pump unit are arranged in the vertical direction of a detergent supply device. has been done. Therefore, there was a problem that the detergent supply device became larger in the vertical direction, and the washing machine 1 equipped with the detergent supply device became larger.

Additionally, the detergent side coil, softener side coil, and drive motor are relatively heavy, so if they are moved to one side of the detergent supply device, the detergent supply device will be in an eccentric state, and the washing machine When the washer 1 is operated, the vibrations are concentrated in the detergent side coil, the softener side coil, and the drive motor, which are heavy objects, and the vibration of the washing machine 1 may further increase. When vibration increases, there is a possibility that fluid may leak from the connection part of the part that conveys fluid such as water.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION An object of the present invention is to provide a washing machine that can solve the above problems, suppress increase in size, and suppress increase in vibration.

In order to achieve the above object, the present invention includes a casing, a water tank provided inside the casing, a first tank containing a first washing processing liquid, and a second tank containing a second washing processing liquid. a tank, a first washing processing liquid discharging section provided in the first tank, a second washing processing liquid discharging section disposed in the second tank, and the washing processing liquid discharged from the first washing processing liquid discharging section. a switching section that selects and switches either the first washing processing liquid or the second washing processing liquid discharged from the second washing processing liquid discharging section; a first driving section that drives the switching section; a second drive unit that drives a pump that injects one of the fluids selected by the switching unit into the water tank, and the first drive unit and the second drive unit include the first washing treatment liquid discharge unit The first drive section and the second drive section are arranged symmetrically with respect to the position of the second washing treatment liquid discharge section, and the first drive section and the second drive section are disposed below the first tank and the second tank. The present invention is characterized in that one drive section is disposed below the second tank, and the second drive section is disposed below the first tank .

According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a washing machine that can suppress an increase in vibration as well as an increase in size.

1 is a perspective view showing an external configuration of a washing machine 1 according to a first embodiment of the present invention. 1 is a front view showing the configuration of a washing machine 1 according to Example 1 of the present invention. 1 is a configuration diagram showing a configuration of a washing machine 1 according to a first embodiment of the present invention viewed diagonally from above and from the front. 1 is a schematic diagram showing the internal configuration of a washing machine 1 according to Example 1 of the present invention. 1 is a perspective view showing a washing machine 1 according to a first embodiment of the present invention with a front panel removed. It is a schematic diagram showing the piping route of washing machine 1 concerning Example 1 of the present invention. 1 is a configuration diagram of a washing treatment liquid input device 30 according to Example 1 of the present invention. FIG. 7 is a perspective view of the switching valve 73 according to the first embodiment of the present invention, viewed from the discharge flow path 74 side. FIG. 7 is a perspective view of the switching valve 73 according to the first embodiment of the present invention, viewed from the valve body 73b side. 9 is a sectional view taken along line XX in FIG. 8. FIG. 9 is a sectional view taken along line XX in FIG. 8. FIG. 9 is a sectional view taken along the line XI-XI in FIG. 8. FIG. 7 is a diagram showing the operation of the electromagnetic valve 20c and the switching valve 73 when the washing machine 1 is normal. FIG. 6 is a diagram showing the operation of the electromagnetic valve 20c and the switching valve when the washing machine 1 is abnormal. FIG. It is a schematic diagram which shows the piping flow path of the washing machine 1 based on Example 2 of this invention.

Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. Note that each figure is merely shown schematically to the extent that the present invention can be fully understood. Therefore, the present invention is not limited to the illustrated example. Further, in each figure, common or similar components are denoted by the same reference numerals, and redundant explanation thereof will be omitted.

[External configuration of washing machine]
Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to FIGS. 1 to 3. FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing the external configuration of a washing machine 1 according to a first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a front view showing the configuration of the washing machine 1 according to the first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 3 is a configuration diagram showing the configuration of the washing machine 1 according to the first embodiment of the present invention, viewed diagonally from above and from the front.

Here, the description will be given assuming that the washing machine 1 is a washer/dryer having a function of drying objects to be washed (cloths). However, the washing machine 1 may not have a drying function. Further, here, the description will be given assuming that the washing machine 1 is a vertical washing machine in which a vertical water tank is disposed inside the housing. However, the washing machine 1 may be a drum type washing machine.

In addition, the first input section 31 (inlet) described later will be described as a manual input section through which the user manually inputs the washing treatment liquid into the water tank 21 (washing and spin-drying tank) described later. Further, the second input unit 32 (inlet) described later will be described as an automatic input unit that inputs the laundry treatment liquid into a laundry treatment liquid input device 30 (described later).

As shown in FIG. 1, the washing machine 1 includes a top cover 12, an outer lid 13, and a tank storage lid 15, each of which can be opened and closed, on the top surface of a housing 11. Further, in the first embodiment, the washing machine 1 includes a removable front panel 16 on the front surface of the housing 11. The top cover 12 is arranged on the rear top surface of the housing 11. The outer lid 13 is arranged on the upper center surface of the housing 11. The tank storage lid 15 is arranged on the front upper surface of the housing 11. An operation panel 14 for operating the washing machine 1 is provided on the upper surface of the outer lid 13. The washing machine 1 controls the water supply unit 20, drive device 23, drain valve 65, discharge control section 70, drying unit 81, fan 82, etc. via a control device (not shown) in response to input instructions from the operation panel 14. . A control program for controlling each of these devices is stored in the control device, and a central processing unit executes the control program to control each device.

2 and 3 show the outer lid 13 and tank storage lid 15 in an open state, respectively. FIG. 2 shows the structure of the washing machine 1 seen from the front, and FIG. 3 shows the structure of the washing machine 1 seen diagonally from above and in front.

As shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, when the outer lid 13 of the washing machine 1 is opened, an opening 11a is provided inside the housing 11. As shown in FIGS. Inside the opening 11a, a water tank 21 that functions as a washing and dehydrating tank into which items to be washed (cloths) are thrown is arranged. Further, as shown in FIG. 3, a first input portion 31 is arranged around the water tank 21, which is used when charging one wash treatment liquid into the water tank 21 (washing and spin-drying tank). The first input unit 31 functions as a manual input unit for a user to manually input a laundry treatment liquid such as liquid detergent or softener (finishing agent) into the water tank 21 (washing and dewatering tank). In the illustrated example, the first input section 31 (manual input section) is arranged at the upper left front part of the housing 11 and outside the water tank 21 (washing and dehydration tank).

Further, in the washing machine 1, when the tank storage lid 15 is opened, the tank 42 of the washing processing liquid input device 30 is disposed inside the housing 11. The laundry treatment liquid injection device 30 is a device that measures the laundry treatment liquid contained in the tank 42 and automatically inputs an appropriate amount of the laundry treatment liquid into the water tank 21 (washing and dehydration tank). The laundry treatment liquid input device 30 includes a tank 42 that accommodates multiple loads of laundry treatment liquid, and a transport pump 46 (see FIGS. 4 and 5) that conveys the laundry treatment liquid. The transport pump 46 (see FIGS. 4 and 5) functions as a transport means for measuring the laundry processing liquid stored in the tank 42 and transporting one load of the washing processing liquid from the inside of the tank 42 to the outside.

The tank 42 is disposed at the upper front part of the housing 11 and in front of the first input section 31 (manual input section). In the illustrated example, two tanks are arranged: a detergent tank 42a (first tank) and a softener tank 42b (second tank). Thereby, the washing machine 1 can automatically add detergent (first laundry treatment liquid) and softener (second laundry treatment liquid) to the water tank 21. The tank 42 is provided with a second input portion 32 that is used when storing the washing treatment liquid in the tank 42 . The second input unit 32 functions as an automatic input unit for automatically inputting the laundry treatment liquid into the water tank 21 (washing and spin-drying tank) using the laundry treatment liquid input device 30. The second input section 32 is sealed with an input port cover 43a. For example, the detergent tank 42a is provided with a second input section 32a for introducing detergent, and is sealed with an input port cover 43a. Further, the softener tank 42b is provided with a second input portion 32b for inputting the softener, and is sealed with an input port cover 43b.

The second input unit 32 is an input unit (automatic input unit) for inputting the laundry treatment liquid stored in the tank 42 of the laundry treatment liquid input device 30. Note that, as described above, the tank 42 is disposed at the front upper part of the housing 11 and in front of the first input section 31 (manual input section). Therefore, like the tank 42, the second input section 32 (automatic input section) is also located at the upper front of the housing 11 and in front of the first input section 31 (manual input section). .

[Internal configuration of washing machine]
The internal configuration of the washing machine 1 will be described below with reference to FIGS. 4 and 5. FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram showing the internal configuration of the washing machine 1 according to the first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the washing machine 1 according to the first embodiment of the present invention, with the front panel removed.

As shown in FIG. 4, the washing machine 1 includes an outer tank 22 inside a housing 11, and further includes a water tank 21 (washing/drying tank) inside the outer tank 22.

The outer tank 22 includes an outer tank cover 22a provided on the top surface, a lid member 22b that seals an opening provided in the outer tank cover 22a, and a drop-in part provided so as to be lower than other parts. 22c.

The water tank 21 (washing/drying tank) has a cylindrical shape with an open top and a bottom. The water tank 21 includes a copper plate 21a forming a cylindrical body portion, rotary blades 21b rotating at the bottom of the water tank 21, and a balance ring 21c for maintaining the balance of the water tank 21. A plurality of through holes 21aa for water and ventilation are formed in the copper plate 21a. The balance ring 21c is a fluid balancer in which fluid is sealed inside.

The washing machine 1 includes a drive device 23 for rotationally driving the water tank 21 and the rotary blades 21b, and a rotation detection device 24 and a motor current detection device 25 for detecting the operation of the drive device 23. The drive device 23 includes a motor 23a that rotates the water tank 21 and the rotary blade 21b, a clutch mechanism 23b that defines the rotation direction and rotation speed of the water tank 21 and the rotary blade 21b, and a rotating shaft 23c connected to the rotary blade 21b. have. The rotating shaft 23c is arranged at the center of the water tank 21 when viewed from above.

The washing machine 1 also includes a water supply unit 20, which is a water supply means for supplying water to the water tank 21, and a drying unit 81 (heater), which heats the air and obtains drying air, in the rear upper part of the casing 11. A fan 82, a ventilation duct 83, and a drying duct 91 are provided for circulating drying air.

The blower duct 83 is arranged between the fan 82 and the blowing nozzle 84, and a drying unit 81 (heater) is arranged in the middle thereof. The air duct 83 is connected to a blowing nozzle 84 through a bellows pipe 83a. The blowing nozzle 84 blows drying air sent by the fan 82 and heated by the drying unit 81 into the outer tank 22 . Drying duct 91 is arranged between outer tank 22 and fan 82. The drying duct 91 is connected to the dropping part 22c of the outer tank 22 by a bellows pipe 91a.

In this configuration, the washing machine 1 supplies water from the water supply unit 20 (water supply means) to the outer tank 22 so that the water tank 21 (washing and dehydration tank) is immersed in water, for example, during the washing process or the rinsing process. supply Further, during the drying process, for example, the washing machine 1 rotates the fan 82 to send air to the ventilation duct 83, heats the air in the drying unit 81 to obtain drying air, and sends the drying air to the outer tank 22 and the water tank. Pass through the inside of 21. Thereby, the washing machine 1 dries the objects to be washed (cloths) housed inside the water tank 21 . Then, the washing machine 1 sends the air that has passed through the outer tub 22 and the water tub 21 from the drying duct 91 to the ventilation duct 83 using the fan 82, and repeats the same operation.

Further, as shown in FIG. 4, the washing machine 1 includes a water injection hose 51a, a charging hose 52a, and a cleaning hose 61a. The water injection hose 51a is a hose that flows water from the water supply unit 20 to the outer tank 22. The input hose 52a is a hose that allows water to flow from the first input section 31 (manual input section) to the outer tank 22. The water injection hose 51a constitutes a part of a water injection flow path 51 (see FIG. 6), which will be described later. The input hose 52a constitutes a part of an input flow path 52 (see FIG. 6), which will be described later.

The washing machine 1 also includes a drainage channel 63 for discharging water, and a drain valve 65 for opening and closing the drainage channel 63.

Furthermore, the washing machine 1 includes a case 41 that accommodates a tank 42 at the front upper part of the housing 11. The tank 42 has a structure that can be freely removed and attached to the case 41 by moving it in the vertical direction. The case 41 preferably has a structure that accommodates at least two or more tanks 42, a detergent tank 42a and a softener tank 42b, so that detergent and softener can be automatically added to the water tank 21. It's good to have one.

As shown in FIG. 5, the case 41 has a horizontally long rectangular shape when viewed from the front, and a vertically long rectangular shape when viewed from the side. Therefore, the entire case 41 has a substantially rectangular parallelepiped shape that is thin in the depth direction. The case 41 is arranged to extend vertically along the inner wall surface of the front panel 16 (see FIG. 4). A transport pump 46 is arranged below the case 41.

Either one or both of the case 41 and the tank 42 preferably includes a vibration damping member 45 (see FIG. 4) that functions as a suppressing means for suppressing vibrations of the washing processing liquid stored in the tank 42 between the case 41 and the tank 21. It is good to have the following. Thereby, the washing machine 1 can suppress the washing processing liquid stored in the tank 42 from shaking and splashing due to vibrations propagated from the drive device 23 and the like.

Note that the case 41 is attached to the front upper part of the housing 11 and is arranged so as to be sandwiched between the inner wall surface of the front panel 16 and the housing 11. Therefore, even if the washing machine 1 does not include the vibration damping member 45 (see FIG. 4), it is possible to suppress the shaking of the washing processing liquid stored in the tank 42. However, by providing the vibration damping member 45 (see FIG. 4), the washing machine 1 can suppress the shaking of the washing processing liquid stored in the tank 42 more efficiently.

In such a configuration, the second input part 32 and the tank 42 of the washing treatment liquid input device 30 are arranged in front of the center of the water tank 21 (for example, the part connected by the rotating shaft 23c (see FIG. 4)). There is. Further, the drying unit 81 (heater) is arranged at the rear of the center of the water tank 21 so as to be spaced apart from the second input section 32 and the tank 42.

[Piping flow path configuration]
Hereinafter, the piping path configuration of the washing machine 1 will be described with reference to FIG. 6. FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram showing a piping route of the washing machine 1 according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

As shown in FIG. 6, the washing machine 1 includes a water injection channel 51, an input channel 52, and a cleaning channel 53 as piping routes used when washing objects (cloths). .

The water supply unit 20 is equipped with a plurality of electromagnetic valves 20a, 20b, and 20c connected to each of a water injection channel 51, an input channel 52, and a cleaning channel 53.

The water injection channel 51 connects the water supply unit 20 and the water injection hose 51a, and supplies water to the water tank 21 (outer tank 22).

The input channel 52 connects the water supply unit 20 and the first input section 31 and the first input section 31 and the water tank 21 (outer tank 22), and inputs the washing treatment liquid and water from the first input section 31 to the water tank 21. .

The washing channel 53 connects the water supply unit 20 and the discharge control section 70 of the washing treatment liquid input device 30, and inputs the laundry treatment liquid and water from the discharge control section 70 into the water tank 21.

Further, the washing machine 1 is equipped with a drainage channel 63. The drainage channel 63 is composed of a drainage pipe 63c that connects a drainage valve 65 provided in the outer tank 22 and a drainage port 66.

Next, with reference to FIGS. 6 and 7, the configuration of the washing treatment liquid input device 30 will be described. FIG. 7 is a configuration diagram of the washing treatment liquid input device 30 according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

The washing treatment liquid input device 30 is composed of a case 41 and a discharge control section 70.
The case 41 houses a detergent tank 42a and a softener tank 42b.

A detergent discharge part 71a (first laundry treatment liquid discharge part) is provided below the detergent tank 42a, and a softener discharge part 71b (second laundry treatment liquid discharge part) is provided below the softener tank 42b. It is being

A discharge control section 70 is provided downstream (below) of the detergent tank 42a and the softener tank 42b to control the discharge of fluids (detergent, softener, washing water).

[Configuration of discharge control unit 70]
The configuration of the discharge control section 70 will be explained below. In the first embodiment, the detergent tank 42a, the softener tank 42b, and the discharge control section 70 are arranged in front of the water tank. The discharge control unit 70 includes a detergent supply channel 72a (first channel), a softener supply channel 72b (second channel), a cleaning channel 53 (third channel), a switching valve 73, and a discharge channel 74. , a stepping motor 75 (first drive section), a transfer pump 46, a first check valve 76, a discharge port 77, and a second check valve 78.

The detergent discharge section 71a is provided with a detergent supply channel 72a (first channel) through which detergent is supplied from the detergent tank 42a, and the softener discharge section 71b is supplied with softener from the softener tank 42b. A softener supply flow path 72b (second flow path) is provided. The detergent supply channel 72a (first channel) and the softener supply channel 72b (second channel) are connected to a switching valve 73 (switching section) that switches the channels. Further, the switching valve 73 is connected to a cleaning channel 53 (third channel) to which the cleaning water from the electromagnetic valve 20c is supplied, and a discharge channel 74 communicating with the transfer pump 46.

The switching valve 73 of the first embodiment switches to select one of the following fluids: detergent from the detergent tank 42a, softener from the softener tank 42b, and wash water from the solenoid valve 20c, and connects the discharge flow path. It functions as a four-way valve that discharges from 74. The switching valve 73 may be a three-way valve that selects either the detergent from the detergent tank 42a or the softener from the softener tank 42b and discharges the fluid from the discharge flow path 74.

A stepping motor 75 as a first driving section is connected to the switching valve 73, and the stepping motor 75 rotates the valve body and changes the stop position to switch the flow path.

A transfer pump 46 is provided downstream of the switching valve 73. The transport pump 46 includes a cylinder 46b that stores detergent/softener, a piston 46a that moves within the cylinder 46b, and a pump motor 46c that drives the piston 46a. The piston 46a and the cylinder 46b constitute a pump that injects fluid into the water tank 21 (outer tank 22), and this pump is driven by a pump motor 46c (second drive unit).

A first check valve 76 is provided between the discharge flow path 74 and the cylinder 46b, and a second check valve 78 is provided between the discharge port 77 of the discharge control section 70 and the cylinder 46b. There is.

The detergent tank 42a and the softener tank 42b are arranged side by side, and the stepping motor 75 and the pump motor 46c are arranged in the direction in which the detergent tank 42a and the softener tank 42b are arranged. Moreover, the stepping motor 75 and the pump motor 46c are arranged symmetrically with respect to the position of the detergent discharge part 71a or the softener discharge part 71b. In other words, the stepping motor 75 and the pump motor 46c are arranged relative to each other so as to sandwich the downward extension of the detergent discharge section 71a or the softener discharge section 71b.

Since the stepping motor 75 and the pump motor 46c are relatively large components, if they are moved to one side of the tank, it is necessary to secure a space for mounting them, and the washing machine 1 becomes larger. In addition, since the stepping motor 75 and the pump motor 46c are relatively heavy, if they are moved to one side of the tank, the heavy objects will become eccentric as the washing processing liquid input device 30, making it difficult to operate the washing machine 1. There is a possibility that the vibrations caused by the washing machine 1 are concentrated on the stepping motor 75 and the pump motor 46c, which are heavy objects, and the vibrations of the washing machine 1 further increase. When vibration increases, there is a possibility that fluid may leak from the connection part of the part that conveys fluid such as water.

On the other hand, in the first embodiment, the stepping motor 75 and the pump motor 46c are relatively arranged so as to sandwich the downward extension line of the detergent discharge part 71a or the softener discharge part 71b, so that the weight balance is stabilized. Vibration can be reduced. As a result, fluid leakage and the like can be suppressed.

[Configuration of switching valve 73]
Next, the configuration of the switching valve 73 will be described with reference to FIGS. 8 to 11. FIG. 8 is a perspective view of the switching valve 73 according to the first embodiment of the present invention, viewed from the discharge flow path 74 side. FIG. 9 is a perspective view of the switching valve 73 according to the first embodiment of the present invention, viewed from the valve body 73b side. 10A and 10B are cross-sectional views taken along the line XX in FIG. 8. FIG. 11 is a sectional view taken along the line XI-XI in FIG.

The switching valve 73 includes a switching valve main body 73a formed in a cylindrical shape and a valve body 73b rotatably disposed within the switching valve main body 73a.

The outer periphery of the switching valve body 73a is provided with a detergent supply channel 72a (first channel), a softener supply channel 72b (second channel), and a cleaning channel 53 (third channel). ing. Further, a discharge passage 74 is provided at the cylindrical bottom of the switching valve body 73a.

As shown in FIGS. 10A and 10B, a valve body flow path 79 having an L-shaped cross section is formed in the valve body 73b. The valve body 73b switches each flow path (detergent supply flow path 72a, softener supply flow path 72b, cleaning flow path 53) by rotating within the switching valve body 73a, and communicates with the discharge flow path 74. works. In the case of FIG. 10A, the softener supply channel 72b and the discharge channel 74 are in communication. Moreover, in the case of FIG. 10B, the cleaning channel 53 and the discharge channel 74 are in communication.

Next, the switching state of each flow path will be explained using FIG. 10A, FIG. 10B, and FIG. 11.

When the valve body 73b is in the position shown in FIG. 11(a), the detergent supply channel 72a, the softener supply channel 72b, and the cleaning channel 53 are closed by the outer periphery of the valve body 73b. In FIG. 11(a), it is "fully closed". Note that the discharge channel 74 is always "open".

When the valve body 73b is in the position shown in FIG. 11(b), the valve body flow path 79 and the cleaning flow path 53 communicate with each other to be "open", and the detergent supply flow path 72a and the softener supply flow path 72b are "closed". It becomes. In FIG. 11(b), the cleaning water flowing through the cleaning channel 53 passes through the valve body channel 79 of the valve body 73b and is discharged into the discharge channel 74.

When the valve body 73b is in the position shown in FIG. 11(c), the valve body flow path 79 and the detergent supply flow path 72a communicate with each other to be "open", and the cleaning flow path 53 and the softener supply flow path 72b are "closed". It becomes. In FIG. 11(c), the detergent flowing through the detergent supply channel 72a passes through the valve body channel 79 of the valve body 73b and is discharged into the discharge channel 74.

When the valve body 73b is in the position shown in FIG. 11(d), the valve body channel 79 and the softener supply channel 72b communicate with each other to be "open", and the cleaning channel 53 and the detergent supply channel 72a are "closed". It becomes. In FIG. 11D, the softener flowing through the softener supply channel 72b passes through the valve body channel 79 of the valve body 73b and is discharged into the discharge channel 74.

The switching valve 73 switches each flow path (detergent supply flow path 72a, softener supply flow path 72b, cleaning flow path 53) by rotating the valve body 73b and changing the stop position as described above. That is, the switching valve 73 switches three channels (detergent supply channel 72a, softener supply channel 72b, and cleaning channel 53) to supply one fluid (detergent, detergent, etc.) from one channel (discharge channel 74). It operates to discharge either softener or cleaning water into the discharge flow path 74.

Furthermore, when switching the flow paths, the stepping motor 75 that drives the switching valve 73 controls the time during which the valve body flow path 79 and the detergent supply flow path 72a communicate with each other, and the time during which the valve body flow path 79 and the softener supply flow path 72b communicate with each other. By changing the communication time, it is possible to control the amount of detergent supplied from detergent tank 42a and the amount of softener supplied from softener tank 42b.

When switching from the position in FIG. 11(c) where detergent is discharged to the position in FIG. 11(b) where cleaning water is discharged, the rotation direction of the valve body 73b changes from FIG. 11(c) to FIG. 11(a) to FIG. There is a route shown in FIG. 11(b) and a route shown in FIG. 11(c)→FIG. 11(d)→FIG. 11(b).

If the route shown in FIG. 11(c)→FIG. 11(d)→FIG. 11(b) is selected, the valve body 73b passes through FIG. 11(d) where the softener is discharged while switching the valve body 73b. The softener may leak out where the flow path 79 and the softener supply flow path 72b coincide. Therefore, in the first embodiment, when switching the valve body 73b from the position shown in FIG. 11(c) where detergent is discharged, the route from FIG. 11(c) to FIG. 11(a) to FIG. 11(b) is selected. ing.

Similarly, when switching from the position shown in FIG. 11(d), where the softener is discharged, to FIG. 11(a), where the valve body 73b is "fully closed," the position shown in FIG. 11(c), where the detergent is discharged, is changed. Therefore, the route shown in FIG. 11(d)→FIG. 11(b)→FIG. 11(a) is selected.

[Operation of transfer pump 46]
Next, the operation of the transfer pump 46 will be explained with reference to FIGS. 6 and 7. When the detergent or softener is supplied to the discharge channel 74, the conveyance pump 46 operates the pump motor 46c to draw the piston 46a toward the pump motor 46c. When the piston 46a is drawn toward the pump motor 46c, the inside of the cylinder 46b becomes negative pressure, the first check valve 76 opens, and detergent or softener is sucked into the cylinder 46b from the discharge passage 74. At this time, the second check valve 78 remains closed. When the operation of the piston 46a is stopped, the first check valve 76 is closed. Then, when the pump motor 46c is operated again and the pump motor 46c pushes the piston 46a, the pressure inside the cylinder 46b increases, the second check valve 78 opens, and the detergent or softener inside the piston 46a is released from the discharge port 77. The water is supplied to the water tank 21 (outer tank 22) from the water tank 21 (outer tank 22).

By repeating the suction and extrusion of detergent or softener by the piston 46a several times, detergent or softener is automatically added to the water tank 21 (outer tank 22) in accordance with the amount of water in the water tank 21 (outer tank 22). .

After the detergent or softener is discharged, the detergent or softener is attached to the switching valve 73, the piston 46a, and the cylinder 46b. If detergent or softener is left attached after washing, the detergent or softener may dry and harden, and the switching valve 73, piston 46a, and cylinder 46b may become stuck and become inoperable.

Therefore, in the first embodiment, a cleaning step is provided to clean the switching valve 73, the piston 46a, and the cylinder 46b. The washing process is performed after the detergent or softener is put into the water tank 21 (outer tank 22). After the detergent or softener is pushed out by the piston 46a, the valve body 73b is switched to the position shown in FIG. 11(b). When the electromagnetic valve 20c is further opened, the cleaning water passes through the cleaning channel 53 and is discharged from the discharge channel 74 together with the detergent or softener attached to the switching valve 73. Since water pressure is applied to the cleaning water discharged from the discharge passage 74, the cleaning water opens the first check valve 76 and flows into the cylinder 46b. The cleaning water that has flowed into the cylinder 46b washes away detergent or softener adhering to the piston 46a and the cylinder 46b, opens the second check valve 78, and is discharged from the discharge port 77 into the water tank 21 (outer tank 22).

In this way, the switching valve 73, piston 46a, and cylinder 46b are cleaned. When supplying cleaning water to the cylinder 46b, it is preferable to draw the piston 46a toward the pump motor 46c. By moving the piston 46a toward the pump motor 46c, the cleaning range within the cylinder 46b can be expanded. Further, after cleaning the piston 46a and cylinder 46b, it is preferable to drive the pump motor 46c to push out the piston 46a in order to remove the cleaning water accumulated in the cylinder 46b. Then, in preparation for the next operation, the transfer pump 46 is placed in a state where the piston 46a is pushed out and located on the side opposite to the pump motor.

When opening the solenoid valve 20c, it is preferable to open the solenoid valve 20c after the valve body 73b is placed in a position where the valve body flow path 79 and the cleaning flow path 53 communicate with each other (FIG. 11(b)). If the solenoid valve 20c is opened before the valve body 73b is in a position where the valve body channel 79 and the cleaning channel 53 communicate with each other, water pressure will be applied to the switching valve 73, which may damage the switching valve 73 or cause water leakage. There is a possibility that this may occur. Therefore, in the first embodiment, the solenoid valve 20c is opened after the valve body 73b is in a position where the valve body flow path 79 and the cleaning flow path 53 communicate with each other (FIG. 11(b)). By operating the solenoid valve 20c and the switching valve 73 in this manner, damage to the switching valve 73 and water leakage can be suppressed.

[Operation of the solenoid valve 20c and switching valve during normal operation of the washing machine 1]
Next, with reference to FIG. 12, the operation of the electromagnetic valve 20c and the switching valve when the washing machine 1 is normal will be described. FIG. 12 is a diagram showing the operation of the solenoid valve 20c and the switching valve 73 when the washing machine 1 is normal.

When operating the washing machine 1, clothes are put into the water tank 21 (outer tank 22) and then the power is turned on. When the power is turned on, the solenoid valve 20c is "closed" and the switching valve 73 is also in the position shown in FIG. 11(a), so that it is "fully closed" to close all flow paths.

When the power is turned on and the start button is pressed, the rotary blade 21b is driven and the amount of laundry is sensed. After sensing is completed, the amount of water and the amount of detergent depending on the amount of water are determined. Thereafter, the electromagnetic valve 20a is energized, becomes "open," and water is supplied to the water tank 21 (outer tank 22). On the other hand, the solenoid valve 20c connected to the cleaning channel 53 is "closed".

Next, in response to the determination of the amount of detergent, the switching valve 73 is set to the position shown in FIG. ).

Next, after setting the switching valve 73 to the position shown in FIG. 11(b), the solenoid valve 20c is opened, and the cleaning water is supplied to the transfer pump 46. Wash. After a predetermined period of time has elapsed, the solenoid valve 20c is closed.

Next, when the washing machine 1 moves to the rinsing process, after setting the switching valve 73 to the position shown in FIG. (Outer tank 22) is filled with softener. Thereafter, the switching valve 73 is set to the position shown in FIG. 11(b), and the softener adhering to the piston 46a and cylinder 46b of the transfer pump 46 is cleaned. After a predetermined period of time has elapsed, the solenoid valve 20c is closed.

When all the washing processes are completed, the washing machine 1 is powered off. When the power is turned off, the solenoid valve 20c is "closed", and the switching valve 73 is also in the position shown in FIG. 11(a), so that it is "fully closed" to close all flow paths.

When the washing machine 1 is operating normally, the switching valve 73 is "fully closed" to close all flow paths when the power is turned on and off.

[Operation of the solenoid valve 20c and switching valve when the washing machine 1 is abnormal]
Next, with reference to FIG. 13, the operation of the electromagnetic valve 20c and the switching valve when the washing machine 1 is abnormal will be described. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing the operation of the electromagnetic valve 20c and the switching valve when the washing machine 1 is abnormal.

When the power is turned on, if some abnormality occurs in the solenoid valve 20c and the solenoid valve 20c becomes "open", water flowing through the cleaning channel 53 flows into the switching valve 73. At this time, if the valve body 73b "closes" the cleaning channel 53, water pressure will be applied to the switching valve 73, which may damage the switching valve 73 or cause water to leak. Therefore, in the first embodiment, in preparation for the case where an abnormality occurs in the solenoid valve 20c and the solenoid valve 20c becomes "open" when the power is turned on, the switching valve 73 is operated when the power is turned on, and the switching valve 73 is moved to the position shown in FIG. 11(b). The cleaning channel 53 is set to be "open". At this time, the detergent supply channel 72a and the softener supply channel 72b are "closed". In the first embodiment, even if cleaning water flows to the switching valve 73 due to an abnormality in the solenoid valve 20c, the cleaning channel 53 is kept open, so that the cleaning water flows through the discharge channel 74 and the first reverse flow path. Since the water passes through the stop valve 76 and the second check valve 78 and flows from the discharge port 77 to the water tank 21 (outer tank 22), damage to the switching valve 73 and water leakage can be suppressed. If any abnormality occurs in the solenoid valve 20c, the failure is displayed on the operation panel 14 or an alarm is sounded to notify the user.

In addition, in the first embodiment, in preparation for a case where some abnormality occurs in the solenoid valve 20c and the solenoid valve 20c becomes "open" when the power is turned off, the switching valve 73 is operated when the power is turned off. ), and the cleaning channel 53 is set to "open". If an abnormality occurs in the solenoid valve 20c when the power is turned off, the failure is displayed on the operation panel 14 for a predetermined period of time or an alarm is sounded to notify the user. After a predetermined period of time has elapsed, the display on the operation panel 14 and the alarm sound will stop, but the water will continue to flow even after the washing machine 1 has stopped, giving the user an indication that the washing machine 1 is malfunctioning. can be grasped.

According to the first embodiment, if a failure occurs in the solenoid valve 20c when the power is turned on or off, the cleaning flow path 53 is set to "open", so that damage to the switching valve 73, water leakage, etc. can be suppressed.

Example 2 of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG. 14. FIG. 14 is a schematic diagram showing the piping flow path of the washing machine 1 according to the second embodiment of the present invention. Components that are common to those in the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and detailed description thereof will be omitted.

In the second embodiment, a plurality of detergent tanks and a plurality of softener tanks are provided, and a plurality of channels connected to these tanks are also provided. Furthermore, the switching valve 73V is a hexagonal valve.

In FIG. 14, the detergent tank 42a includes a first detergent tank 42a1 that accommodates a first detergent, and a second detergent tank 42a2 that accommodates a second detergent. The softener tank 42b includes a first softener tank 42b1 that accommodates a first softener, and a second softener tank 42b2 that accommodates a second softener.

A first detergent discharge part 71a1 is formed at the bottom of the first detergent tank 42a1, and a second detergent discharge part 71a2 is formed at the bottom of the second detergent tank 42a2. A first softener discharge part 71b1 is formed at the bottom of the first softener tank 42b1, and a second softener discharge part 71b2 is formed at the bottom of the second softener tank 42b2.

The first detergent discharge section 71a1 is equipped with a first detergent supply channel 72a1 through which the first detergent from the first detergent tank 42a1 is supplied, and the second detergent discharge section 71a2 is equipped with a first detergent supply channel 72a1 through which the first detergent is supplied from the second detergent tank 42a2. A second detergent supply channel 72a2 to which a second detergent is supplied is provided. The first softener discharge section 71b1 is provided with a first softener supply flow path 72b1 through which the first softener is supplied from the first softener tank 42b1, and the second softener discharge section 71b2 is provided with a second softener supply channel 72b1. A second softener supply channel 72b2 is provided to which the second softener is supplied from the agent tank 42b2.

The first detergent supply channel 72a1, the second detergent supply channel 72a2, the first softener supply channel 72b1, and the second softener supply channel 72b2 are connected to a switching valve 73V (switching section) that switches the channels. There is. Further, the switching valve 73 is connected to a cleaning channel 53 to which cleaning water from the electromagnetic valve 20c is supplied, and a discharge channel 74 communicating with the transfer pump 46.

The switching valve 73V of the second embodiment allows the detergent from the first detergent supply channel 72a1 and the second detergent supply channel 72a2, the softener from the first softener supply channel 72b1 and the second softener supply channel 72b2, It functions as a six-way valve that switches the wash water from the electromagnetic valve 20c and discharges it from the discharge flow path 74.

When the first detergent tank 42a1 and the second detergent tank 42a2 are provided, different types of detergents are put into each detergent tank. For example, the first detergent tank 42a1 is filled with a liquid detergent used for normal clothing, and the second detergent tank 42a2 is filled with a liquid detergent suitable for hand washing or dry washing. In the second embodiment, a detergent to be added to the water tank 21 (outer tank 22) is selected according to a washing course such as a standard course or a fashionable course. When the standard course is selected, the valve body 73b is turned so that the detergent from the first detergent tank 42a1 is introduced, and when the fashionable course is selected, the detergent from the second detergent tank 42a2 is introduced. Switch.

Moreover, when the first softener tank 42b1 and the second softener tank 42b2 are provided, different types of softeners are put into each softener tank. For example, a fragrance-containing fabric softener is placed in the first fabric softener tank 42b1, and a fragrance-free fabric softener is placed in the second fabric softener tank 42b2. Then, depending on the type of clothing and preference, the laundry is performed using the operation panel 14 with a softener added to the water tank 21 (outer tank 22).

Regarding the configuration of the switching valve 73V for realizing the second embodiment, for example, it is preferable to add two flow paths to the outer periphery of the switching valve body 73a.

According to the second embodiment, the type of detergent to be added to the water tank 21 (outer tank 22) can be changed according to the washing course, so it is possible to wash clothes using a detergent suitable for the type of clothes. It is possible to prevent clothes from losing their shape and shrinking of clothing.

Furthermore, according to the second embodiment, it is possible to select the softener to be added to the water tank 21 (outer tank 22) from a plurality of types of softeners, so that the softener can be used depending on the type of clothing and the user's preference. be able to.

As explained above, according to each embodiment of the present invention, a plurality of flow paths are switched by one switching valve, so that it is possible to suppress an increase in size and cost of the washing machine. can be provided.

The present invention is not limited to the embodiments described above, but includes various modifications. For example, the embodiments described above are described in detail to explain the present invention in an easy-to-understand manner, and the present invention is not necessarily limited to having all the configurations described. Furthermore, it is possible to replace a part of the configuration of the embodiment with another configuration, and it is also possible to add other configurations to the configuration of the embodiment. Furthermore, it is possible to add, delete, or replace a part of each configuration with other configurations.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1...Washing machine, 11...Housing, 11a...Opening part, 12...Top cover, 13...Outer cover, 14...Operation panel, 15...Tank storage lid, 16...Front panel, 20...Water supply unit, 20a...Solenoid valve , 20b... Solenoid valve, 20c... Solenoid valve, 21... Water tank, 21a... Copper plate, 21aa... Through hole, 21b... Rotating blade, 21c... Balance ring, 22... Outer tank, 22a... Outer tank cover, 22b... Lid member, 22c...Drop part, 23...Drive device, 23a...Motor, 23b...Clutch mechanism, 23c...Rotary shaft, 24...Rotation detection device, 25...Motor current detection device, 30...Washing treatment liquid input device, 31...First input Part, 32...Second input part, 32a...Second input part for detergent input, 32b...Second input part for softener input, 41...Case, 42...Tank, 42a...Detergent tank, 42a1...First Detergent tank, 42a2... Second detergent tank, 42b... Softener tank, 42b1... First softener tank, 42b2... Second softener tank, 43a... Input port cover, 43b... Inlet port cover, 45... Control Vibrating member, 46...Transport pump, 46a...Piston, 46b...Cylinder, 46c...Pump motor, 51...Water injection channel, 51a...Water injection hose, 52...Input channel, 52a...Input hose, 53...Cleaning channel, 61a ...Cleaning hose, 63...Drain channel, 65...Drain valve, 66...Drain port, 70...Discharge control section, 71a...Detergent discharge section, 71a1...First detergent discharge section, 71a2...Second detergent discharge section, 71b... Softener discharge part, 71b1...First softener discharge part, 71b2...Second softener discharge part, 72a...Detergent supply channel, 72a1...First detergent supply channel, 72a2...Second detergent supply channel, 72b... Softener supply channel, 72b1...First softener supply channel, 72b2...Second softener supply channel, 73...Switching valve, 73a...Switching valve body, 73b...Valve body, 73V...Switching valve, 74...Discharge Channel, 75...Stepping motor, 76...First check valve, 77...Discharge port, 78...Second check valve, 79...Valve body channel, 81...Drying unit, 82...Fan, 83...Blower duct, 83a... Bellows pipe, 84... Blowout nozzle, 91... Drying duct, 91a... Bellows pipe

Claims (2)

A casing and
a water tank provided inside the housing;
a first tank containing a first washing treatment liquid;
a second tank containing a second washing treatment liquid;
a first washing treatment liquid discharge section provided in the first tank;
a second washing treatment liquid discharge section provided in the second tank;
a switching unit that selects and switches either the first laundry treatment liquid discharged from the first laundry treatment liquid discharge portion or the second laundry treatment liquid discharged from the second laundry treatment liquid discharge portion;
a first drive section that drives the switching section;
a second drive unit that drives a pump that introduces one of the fluids selected by the switching unit into the water tank;
The first driving section and the second driving section are arranged symmetrically with respect to the position of the first washing processing liquid discharging section or the second washing processing liquid discharging section ,
The first drive section and the second drive section are arranged below the first tank and the second tank, the first drive section is arranged below the second tank, and the second drive section A washing machine characterized in that: is arranged below the first tank . The washing machine according to claim 1,
The washing machine, wherein the first tank, the second tank, the first drive section, and the second drive section are arranged ahead of the water tank.

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