KR20020060930A - Drum-type laundry machine - Google Patents

Abstract

PURPOSE: A drum-type laundry machine is provided to rotate a rotary drum without difficulties in using non-low foaming detergent and to obtain sufficient cleaning efficiency. CONSTITUTION: A drum-type laundry machine is composed of a water tank(8), a rotary drum(10) installed inside the water tank, a water supply device(53) supplying water to the water tank, a bubble detector(37,46) detecting the amount of bubbles inside the rotary drum, a decision device deciding the surplus of bubbles based on the result of the bubble detector, and a bubble suppressing device repressing bubbles in the rotary drum in surplus bubbles. If the bubble is exceeded in filling water by the water supply device, the bubble suppressing device stops supplying water and the rotary drum by a rotational driving device(16).

Description

Drum-type washing machine {DRUM-TYPE LAUNDRY MACHINE}

The present invention relates to a drum type washing machine formed by rotatably arranging a drum-type rotating tank inside a water tank.

In a conventional drum type washing machine, it is recommended to use a low foaming type detergent having a relatively low amount of foam generated during washing. This is for the following reason. That is, in the drum type washing machine, by rotating the rotary tub at a relatively low speed, the laundry in the rotary tub is dropped and washed (tap washing). At this time, if a large amount of bubbles are generated in the rotating tank, the dropping impact of the laundry is weakened, and the cleaning effect is lowered.

In addition, when a large amount of foam | bubble generate | occur | produces at the washing stroke, since a large amount of foam | bubble enters between a rotating tank and a water tank at the time of dehydration administration, rotation of a rotating tank is inhibited. As a result, the rotation speed of the rotating tub does not increase so that laundry cannot be sufficiently dehydrated, or the rotation of the rotating tub is stopped on the way.

By the way, non-foaming detergents, so-called general synthetic detergents are generally easy to obtain, many kinds and cheaper than low-foaming detergents. For this reason, development of the drum type laundry which can use a general synthetic detergent is desired.

The present invention is to provide a washing machine that does not interfere with the rotation of the rotating tank even when a non-foaming detergent is used, and that a sufficient cleaning effect can be obtained.

1 is a longitudinal side view of a drum type washing machine showing a first embodiment of the present invention;

2 is a front view of the drum type washing machine,

3 is a view showing an operation panel;

4 is a plan view of a drum type washing machine shown in a state where the upper plate of the outer case is peeled off;

FIG. 5 is a rear view of the drum type washing machine shown in a state where the rear root portion of the outer case is peeled off;

6 is a rear view showing an air trap periphery in a heat exchanger;

7 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 7-7 of FIG. 6,

8 is a block diagram showing an electrical configuration;

9 is a view showing the relationship between the output frequency of the pressure sensor and the pressure in the air trap,

10 is a flow chart showing the process contents of the standard course;

11 is a flowchart showing processing contents of a washing stroke;

12 is a time chart showing timing of operation of a water supply valve and a rotating tub during a washing stroke;

13 is a flow chart showing the processing contents of the water supply operation of the washing stroke;

14 is a view showing a time change in the output of the pressure sensor during the stirring operation of the washing stroke;

15 is a view showing a state in which an error code (error code) indicating that the unlock operation of the door locking device is not displayed on the display unit;

16 is a flow chart showing the processing contents of the rinsing stroke;

17 shows a second embodiment of the present invention, which is a flow chart of the final drainage operation of the rinsing stroke,

FIG. 18 is a view for explaining a state in an air trap when water is supplied into the air trap while a lint is blocked at a connection port between the air trap and the duct; FIG.

19 is a view showing a change in the output of the pressure sensor when the water supply in the air trap in the state that the lint is blocked at the connection port of the air trap and the duct,

20 is a flowchart showing a process in a water supply operation of a rinsing stroke, showing a third embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 21 shows a fourth embodiment of the present invention, which shows drive timing of a water supply valve 42, a heating element 18, and a rotating tub in a washing stroke.

22 is a view showing a state in which an error code indicating that the rotation is stopped due to excessive generation of bubbles is displayed on the display unit;

23 is a view corresponding to FIG. 5 showing a fifth embodiment of the present invention;

24 is equivalent to FIG. 4,

25 is equivalent to FIG. 6,

FIG. 26 is a sectional view along line 26-26 in FIG. 25;

Fig. 27 is a graph showing the relationship between the ratio of the water supply amount to the duct and the water supply amount to the air trap, and the dehumidification performance of the heat exchanger;

28 is a view corresponding to FIG. 7 showing a sixth embodiment of the present invention;

29 is a view corresponding to FIG. 7 showing a seventh embodiment of the present invention;

30 is a view corresponding to FIG. 7 showing an eighth embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 31 corresponds to Figure 7 showing a ninth embodiment of the present invention and

32 is a view corresponding to FIG. 7 showing a tenth embodiment of the present invention.

* Explanation of symbols for main parts of the drawings

1: outer case 2: door

3: operation panel 5: doorway

6: control circuit unit 7: control circuit unit

8: water tank 10: rotating tank

21: blower 22: heating device

33: drying device

The drum type washing machine according to the present invention includes a water tank, a rotating tank rotatably disposed in the water tank, in which laundry is accommodated, and a water supply means for supplying water to the water tank, and foam for detecting the amount of foam generated in the water tank. A detection means is provided.

According to the above constitution, the amount of bubbles generated in the rotating tank during the washing operation can be detected to quickly detect the occurrence of the foaming excess state, thereby enabling appropriate processing for the foaming excess state. For this reason, even when any one of a low foaming detergent and a non-low foaming detergent is used, sufficient washing | cleaning effect can be acquired.

In this case, judging means for judging whether or not the amount of generation of bubbles is excessive on the basis of the detection result of the bubble detection means, and when the amount of generation of bubbles is determined by the determination means to generate the bubbles in the rotating tank. It is good to provide a bubble suppression means which performs an operation | movement which suppresses. According to the said structure, since the quantity of the bubble in a rotating tank can be suppressed small, the rotation of a rotating tank is prevented by the bubble which generate | occur | produces in a rotating tank.

In addition, a drum-type laundry machine opens and closes a door opening and closing a laundry entrance installed on the front of the outer case, a locking member for locking the closed state of the door, and a date and time of washing operation. And a locking controller for unlocking the locking means based on the operation of the pause instructing means. When the pause instructing means is operated when it is determined that the amount of generation is excessive, the locking control means does not unlock the locking means.

According to such a structure, it can prevent beforehand that the bubble generate | occur | produced in the rotating tank overflowed at the laundry entrance.

When the drum type washing machine has a heat exchanger having a duct communicating with the water tank and has drying means for drying the laundry in the rotary tank, the bubble detecting means has an air trap in communication with the duct. ), And a pressure sensor for detecting the pressure in the air trap.

Hereinafter, a first embodiment to which the present invention is applied to a drum type laundry dryer will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 16. First, FIG. 1 and FIG. 2 show the whole structure of the drum type laundry dryer which concerns on a present Example. In this figure, the circular laundry entrance 5 is formed in the front surface of the outer case 1 which has substantially rectangular case shape, and the door 2 which opens and closes the said entrance 5 is attached. The operation panel 3 is provided at the upper front of the outer case 1. In addition, an operation circuit unit 6 is disposed at the rear of the operation panel 3 in the outer case 1. In addition, a control circuit unit 7 is disposed at the rear portion of the front lower portion of the outer case 1 in the outer case 1.

The inside of the outer case 1 is arranged in an inclined state so that the tank 8 in the shape of a drum descends backward. The water tank 8 is elastically supported by four suspensions 9 in front, rear, left and right. A circular opening 13 is formed on the front surface of the water tank 8. The opening 13 is watertightly connected to the entrance and exit 5 of the outer case 1 by an elastic member, for example, bellows 15 made of rubber.

Inside the water tank 8, a rotating tank 10 in the form of a drum is arranged. The rotating tank 10 is arranged so that its axial direction coincides with the axial direction of the water tank 8, that is, it is inclined downward. The rotating tank 10 functions as a dehydration tank, a washing tank, and a drying tank. A circular opening 14 is formed in the front portion of the rotating tub 10. Moreover, the circumferential wall part and the rear end plate of the said rotating tank 10 are provided with the several hole part 11 which functions as a water flow hole and a ventilation hole. Moreover, the some baffle 12 is provided in the inner surface of the circumferential wall part of the said rotating tank 10. As shown in FIG.

An outer-rotor motor 16 for rotating and driving the rotating tub 10 is attached to an approximately center portion of the rear end plate of the tank 8. The motor 16 includes a stator 16a, a rotor 16b, and a rotation shaft 16e. The bearing holding part (not shown) which hold | maintains a bearing is provided in the substantially center part of the rear end plate of the said water tank 8, The said stator 16a is attached to the outer peripheral part of the bearing holding part. The rotating tub 16c is rotatably supported by the bearing. The front end of the rotating tub 16c penetrates the rear end plate of the water tank 8 and is fixed to an approximately central portion of the rear end plate of the rotary tub 10. By the above configuration, the rotating tub 10 is directly rotated by the motor 16.

At the lowermost part of the circumferential wall portion of the water tank 8, a water flow portion 17 protruding outward is integrally provided with the circumferential wall portion. In the water flow section 17, a heating element 18 for heating the wash water is accommodated. Further, a drain port 17a is formed at the rear end of the bottom of the water flow portion 17. A drain valve 19 serving as a drain means and a drain pipe 20 are connected to the drain port 17a.

As shown in FIG. 1, FIG. 4, and FIG. 5, the drying apparatus 33 which is a drying means is provided in the part related to the rear part, the upper part, and the upper part of the water tank 8. Specifically, the heating device 22 and the blower 21 are arranged side by side in the upper part of the said water tank 8 before and after. The blower 21 is a casing 23, a blowing fan 24 accommodated in the casing 23, and a motor fixed to the outside of the casing 23 and rotating the blower fan 24. It consists of 25. The motor 25 and the blower fan 24 are connected by a transmission belt 26.

The heating device 22 is composed of a case 27 and a heating element 28 housed inside the case 27. The rear end of the case 27 is connected to the discharge side of the casing 23 of the blower 21. In addition, a duct 29 is connected to the front end of the case 27 of the heating device 22. The other end of the duct 29 is connected to the entire upper part of the peripheral wall of the water tank 8.

The heat exchanger 30 is provided in the rear part of the water tank 8. The heat exchanger 30 is composed of a duct 30a provided on the left side in FIG. 5 of the rear end plate of the water tank 8.

The duct 30a is bent along the outer circumference of the rear end plate of the water tank 8. The inlet port 31 which serves as an export port is formed in a portion of the rear end plate of the water tank 8 corresponding to the lower portion of the duct 30a. In addition, a duct-shaped exhaust port 32 is provided above the duct 30a. The duct 30a is connected to the suction side of the casing 23 of the blower 21 with the exhaust port 32 interposed therebetween.

In addition, a main water pipe 34 extending from side to side extends in the upper portion of the duct 30a. In the lower part of the main water pipe 34, many water fountain 34a is provided. In FIG. 5, the right end portion of the main water pipe 34 protrudes outside the duct 30a, and a connection portion 34a is provided at the protruding portion thereof. The connecting portion 34a is connected to the water supply device 53 through a water filling tube 35. Thus, the water supply device 53 functions as a dehumidifying water supply means, and the water feed tube 35 and a water filling pipe 34 function as a dehumidifying water supply passage. In addition, the water feed tube 35 functions as a water supply tube for dehumidification. The water supply device 53 will be described later. The heat exchanger 30 is a water-cooled type that exchanges air in the duct 30a with water supplied from the water supply device 53 through the fountain hole 34a to cool and dehumidify the air.

The drying device 33 is configured by the blower 21, the heater 22, and the heat exchanger 30.

As shown in FIG. 5, the temperature sensor 67 is provided in the lower part of the rear end plate of the water tank 8. As shown in FIG. The temperature sensor 67 consists of a thermistor, for example, and is comprised so that the water temperature and air temperature in the water tank 8 may be detected. Moreover, the pressure sensor 47 and the water level sensor 49 are provided in the rear part of the upper part in the outer case 1. As shown in FIG. The water level sensor 49 is connected to an air trap (not shown) through an air tube 50. The water level sensor 49 detects the water level in the water tank 8 through the pressure in the air trap. The pressure sensor 47 is connected to the air trap 37 via an air tube 46. The pressure sensor 47 detects the pressure in the air trap 37. The pressure sensor 47 is 10 times higher in sensitivity than the water level sensor 49 and employs a pressure capable of detecting a minute pressure of several hundred Pa.

The air trap 37 is provided in the rear portion of the duct 30a. As shown in Figs. 6 and 7, the air trap 37 has three attachment portions 41, and on the rear portion of the duct 30a, a boss (corresponding to the attachment portion 41) ( 43) is installed. The air trap 37 is attached to the duct 30a by the screw 45 inserted into the attachment portion 41 and the projection 43.

The said air trap 37 has the connection ports 38, 39, and 40 which protrude in the upper part and the side part, respectively. The lower part of the attachment part of the air trap 37 of the back part of the said duct 30a is provided with the tubular opening part 42 which protrudes back. In the opening 42, a connection port 38 is inserted through an O-ring 44 serving as a sealing member. Thereby, the air trap 37 and the duct 30a are airtightly and watertightly connected. At this time, the distal end of the connector 38 is configured to be the same surface as the inner surface of the duct 30a. The pressure sensor 47 is connected to the connecting port 39 via the air tube 46. In addition, the water supply device 53 is connected to the connection port 40 via a water feed tube 51. Therefore, the water supply device 53 functions as a water trap for air traps, and the water feed tube 51 functions as a water trap for air traps.

In detail, as will be described later, when detergent and water are supplied into the water tank 8 and bubbles are generated in the rotary tank 10, a part of the bubbles are formed in the water tank 8 at the hole 11 or the opening 14. Enters and enters the duct 30a through the inlet 31. When the amount of bubbles generated is large, bubbles entering the duct 30a again enter the air trap 37 through the connection port 38, and as a result, the pressure in the air trap 37 changes. Therefore, the bubble detection device 48 which is a bubble detection means by the said air trap 37, the air tube 46, and the pressure sensor 47 is comprised. The pressure sensor 47 outputs a frequency signal according to the pressure, and shows a relationship between the output frequency of the pressure sensor 47 and the pressure in the air trap 37 in FIG. 9.

1, 4, and 5, a water-intake pump 57 for supplying bath water is disposed at the upper left and rear portions in the outer case 1. The absorption pump 57 has a priming supply port 58, an absorption port 59, and a discharge port 60. An absorbing hose (not shown) is connected to the absorbing port 59 to lift bath water from the bathtub.

A water filling case 61 is arranged at the upper left front part of the outer case 1. The water injection case 61 is connected with the water tank 8 via the water supply pipe 62 connected to the lower part.

The discharge port 60 and the pick-up material supply port 58 of the absorption pump 57 are connected to the water injection case 61 via hoses 63 and 64, respectively. The detergent case 4 (refer FIG. 2) is accommodated in the said pouring case 61. As shown in FIG. The detergent case 4 has a storage portion of the detergent and a storage portion (not shown) of the softening agent.

In addition, the water supply device 53 is provided on the right side of the absorption pump 57 among the upper portions of the outer case 1. The absorption pump 57 and the water supply device 53 function as water supply means. The water supply device 53 has one inlet 56 and four outlets (not shown), and each outlet has a water supply valve 36, 52, 54, 55 attached thereto. The water inlet 56 is connected to the faucet via a hose not shown.

The water feed tube 35 is connected to the water supply valve 36. The water feed tube 51 is connected to the water supply valve 52. The water supply valves 54 and 55 are connected to the water supply casing 61 via hoses 65 and 66, respectively.

Although a detailed description is omitted, both the bath water supplied into the water supply case 61 through the hose 63 and the tap water supplied into the water supply case 61 through the hose 65 pass through the detergent storage portion of the detergent case 4. After that, it is supplied into the water tank 8. On the other hand, the tap water supplied in the water supply case 61 through the hose 66 is passed through the reservoir for the softener of the detergent case 4, it is made to be supplied into the water tank (8).

Next, the structure of the operation panel 3 is demonstrated, referring FIG. The operation panel 3 includes a power switch 68, a start switch 69 which also serves as a pause switch, and a "course" selector 72. And various operation switches such as a "hot water" mode switch 73, a "detergent" input switch 75, and the like. The start switch 69 functions as a pause instructing means. The "course" switch 72 is for setting various courses of washing operation and drying operation. The "hot water" mode switch 73 is for setting to the "hot water" mode in which the washing operation is performed with hot water. The "detergent" switch 75 which performs the washing operation is for setting the type of detergent used in the washing operation to either one of a general synthetic detergent (equivalent to a non-foaming detergent) and a low foaming detergent. In the following description, a mode for performing a cleaning operation using a general synthetic detergent is referred to as a "common synthetic detergent" mode, and a mode for performing a cleaning operation using a low foaming detergent is referred to as a "low foaming agent". This is referred to as "low foaming detergent" mode.

Moreover, the said operation panel 3 is provided with various display parts, such as the "course" display part 77, the "detergent mode" display part 83, and the detergent amount display part 81. The washing course set by the "course" switch 72 is displayed on the "course" display unit 77. The "detergent mode" display part 83 consists of one LED, and when the "general synthetic detergent" mode is set by the "detergent" switch 75, the said LED will light. Detergent amount display unit 81 displays the amount of detergent according to the amount of laundry put into the rotary tub (10). In addition to the detergent amount, the detergent amount display unit 81 also displays an error code indicating the error content during the remaining time of the washing operation or an error in addition to the detergent amount.

8 is a block diagram showing an electrical configuration of the laundry dryer according to the present embodiment. The control circuit 92, which is a control means, is composed of, for example, a circuit mainly composed of a microcomputer, and a control program for controlling the overall washing and drying operation is stored. The control circuit 92 includes an operation signal from an input operation circuit 93, the water level sensor 49, a rotation sensor 94, a pollution sensor 95, and a dryness sensor. 96, the detection signal from the pressure sensor 47 and the temperature sensor 67 is input.

The input operation circuit 93 outputs an operation signal in response to the operation of various switches except for the power switch 68 of the operation panel 3. The rotation sensor 94 outputs a rotation position signal according to the rotation position of the motor 16. The pollution sensor 95 is composed of, for example, a photo sensor for detecting the permeability of the wash water in the water tank 8, and outputs a detection signal according to the degree of contamination of the wash water. The drying sensor 96 outputs a detection signal according to the dry state (drying rate) of the laundry. For example, the drying sensor 96 detects the temperature in the duct 30a of the heat exchanger 30 and the temperature in the water tank 8. The thermistor to detect is comprised.

In addition, the control circuit 92 is connected to the motor 16 through an inverter circuit 97, and at the same time, a buzzer 98, a display circuit 99, The heating element 18, the drain valve 19, the motor 25, the heating element 28, the absorption pump 57, the water supply valves 36, 52, 54, 55, and the door lock device 100 are connected. It is. The display circuit 99 is connected to the display portion of the operation panel 3. The door locking device 100 functions as a locking means for locking the closed state of the door 2, and is configured with, for example, an electromagnet.

In the present embodiment, the control circuit 92 and the motor 16 constitute rotation drive means. In addition, the control circuit 92 constitutes a determination means, a bubble suppression means, a rinsing operation execution means, and a locking control means.

Next, the operation of the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 10 to 16. Here, the operation of the standard course of the laundry drying course will be described. As shown in Fig. 10, in the standard course, the control circuit 92 executes the initial setting (step S1) and the water level setting in the water tank 8 (step S2) based on the operation of the start switch 69. After that, the washing stroke (step S3), the first dehydrating stroke (step S4), the rinsing stroke (step S5), the second dehydrating stroke (step S6), the drying stroke (step S7) Run them in turn.

In the initial setting, "0" is input to the number of times of execution of the stirring operation and the draining operation N and the flag F in the rinsing stroke with respect to the RAM built in the control circuit 92. The flag F indicates whether or not the door lock device can be released. If the door lock device is released, the flag F is set to " 0 ", and the flag F is not released. Is set to "1". In addition, it mentions later in detail. The water level in the water tank 8 is determined based on the amount of laundry in the rotary tank 10. The amount of laundry in the rotating tub 10 is detected based on the rotational speed of the motor 16, that is, the rotational speed of the rotating tub 10, for example, when a predetermined input current is supplied to the motor 16 for driving. .

FIG. 11 is a flow chart of each process performed in the washing stroke, FIG. 12 is a diagram showing the operation timing of the water supply valve 54 and the rotating tub 10 in each process of the washing stroke, and FIG. 13 is a water supply during the washing stroke. The flowchart of each process performed at the time of operation is shown. As shown in these figures, in the washing stroke, water supply operation is first performed (step S31). This water supply operation is performed by opening the water supply valve 54 (step S311). As a result, the tap water is supplied into the water tank 8 together with the detergent through the hose 65 and the water case 61.

Subsequently, the control circuit 92 reads the output frequency of the pressure sensor 47 and determines whether or not it is equal to or less than the threshold value (x kHz) (step S312). The threshold value x is obtained experimentally based on the bubble generation state in the rotating tank 10 and the output of the pressure sensor 47. The state in which the output frequency of the pressure sensor 47 is equal to or less than the threshold value x indicates a state in which a large amount of foaming occurs. Such an excessive foaming state occurs when, for example, a general synthetic detergent is used while setting to the "low foaming detergent" mode, and the detergent amount is incorrect.

If the output frequency of the pressure sensor 47 is larger than the threshold value x (no), that is, if the foaming state is not excessive, the control circuit 92 proceeds to step S313 and the water level sensor 49 It is determined whether the water level in the water tank 8 has reached the start water level of the pre-stirring operation based on the output of. When the start water level is reached (YES), the flow advances to step S314 to start the preliminary stirring operation. The preliminary stirring operation is an operation of mixing tap water and detergent by intermittently rotating the rotating tub 10. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 11, the motor 16 is driven for 5 seconds in the forward rotation direction at a rotational speed of 50 rpm, stopped for 2 seconds, driven for 5 seconds in the reverse rotation direction at the rotational speed of 50 rpm, and stopped for 2 seconds. This is repeated.

Subsequently, the control circuit 92 judges whether or not the water level in the water tank 8 has reached the set water level in step S315, and when the water level has reached the set water level (Yes), the preliminary stirring operation is terminated at the same time. The valve 54 is closed to terminate the water supply operation (steps S316 and S317). If the set water level is not reached, the flow returns to step S312.

On the other hand, when the output frequency of the pressure sensor 47 is equal to or less than the threshold value x in step S312 (Yes), the flow advances to step S316 to end the pre-stirring operation and closes the water supply valve 54. Terminate the water supply operation.

When the water supply operation ends, the control circuit 92 operates the door locking device to lock the closed state of the door 2 (step S32). Subsequently, the control circuit 92 continuously rotates the rotating tub 10 in the forward and reverse directions (stirring operation). Specifically, as shown in Fig. 12, the operation of driving the motor 16 in the forward rotation direction at the rotational speed of 60 rpm for 20 seconds, stopping for 2 seconds, driving for 20 seconds in the reverse rotation direction, and stopping for 2 seconds is repeated.

Subsequently, the control circuit 92 determines whether the output frequency of the pressure sensor 47 is equal to or less than the threshold value z (step S34). The state in which the output of the pressure sensor 47 is below the threshold z indicates that the bubble overflows from the doorway 5 when the door 2 is opened. The threshold value z is set to a value larger than the threshold value x. When the output frequency of the pressure sensor 47 is larger than the threshold value z (no), the door lock device 100 may not overflow even when the door 2 is opened. It is judged that the release operation is possible, and the flag F is set to "0" (step S35). On the other hand, when the output frequency of the pressure sensor 47 is equal to or less than the threshold z (example), since the foam may overflow from the doorway 5 when the door 2 is opened, the door locking device 100 It is judged that the releasing operation of? Is impossible and the flag F is set to "1" (step S36).

Subsequently, the control circuit 92 determines whether the output frequency of the pressure sensor 47 is equal to or less than the threshold value x (step S37). And if the output frequency of the pressure sensor 47 is larger than the threshold value x (no), it will transfer to step S39. When the output frequency of the pressure sensor 47 is smaller than the threshold value x (no), the drain valve 19 is opened for a predetermined time to partially discharge the water in the water tank 8 (step S38). The flow advances to step S39. As a result, the height position of the foam is lowered, so that the space in which the foam can be accommodated in the water tank 8 can be increased, and the amount of foam generated by the washing operation can be reduced.

Here, FIG. 14 shows the relationship between the elapsed time after starting the stirring operation and the output of the pressure sensor 47. In FIG. 14, the state where the amount of foam generation is large, the normal state, and the small state are shown by curves D1, D2, and D3, respectively. Bubbles are gradually generated in the rotating tank 10 according to the stirring operation. In a state where a large amount of foam is generated, foam reaches the opening 42 (connection port 38) in the duct 30a relatively early after the start of the stirring operation, and the pressure in the air trap 37 starts to rise, thereby The output of the pressure sensor 47 starts to fall. On the other hand, in the state where foam generation amount is normal, the output of the pressure sensor 47 will begin to fall from the time after a while of starting stirring operation. In the state where the amount of foaming is small, the foam hardly reaches the opening 42 in the duct 30a even when the stirring operation is performed, and thus the output of the pressure sensor 47 hardly changes.

In step S39, the control circuit 92 judges whether the start switch 69 has been operated and there has been a pause instruction. If the start switch 69 has not been operated, it is judged whether or not the stirring operation time has elapsed (step S40), and if it has not elapsed (no), the process proceeds to step S34 again to perform the above process. Repeat. On the other hand, when the stirring operation time has elapsed (Yes), the driving of the motor 16 is stopped to terminate the stirring operation (step S41), and then the drain valve 19 is opened to drain the water in the water tank 8. It discharges all (step S42).

On the other hand, when the start switch 69 is operated (YES in step S39), the control circuit 92 stops driving of the motor 16 and temporarily stops the stirring operation (step S43). Next, in step S44, it is determined whether or not the flag F is "1". If the flag F is "0" (No), the door lock is released (step S45), and then waits for the start switch 69 to be operated again in step S46. On the other hand, when the flag F is "1" (S44: Yes), the flow proceeds to step S46.

In this case, therefore, the door 2 cannot be opened even if the user intends to add laundry, for example, during the stirring operation. Thereby, the door 2 is opened in the state in which the quantity of foam in the rotating tank 10 is large, and it can prevent that the bubble overflows from the entrance 5. At this time, the control circuit 92 displays the error code "E: -d" on the display unit 81 as shown in FIG. This error code indicates that the door lock is not released because a large amount of bubbles are generated in the rotating tub 10.

When the start switch 69 is operated (S46: Yes), the flow advances to step S32 again to operate the door locking device 100 to lock the closed state of the door 2, and then the stirring operation is performed. Resume.

When the above washing administration is completed, the process proceeds to the first dewatering administration in step S4 of FIG. In the dehydration stroke, the control circuit 92 drives the motor 16 (rotary tub 10) at high speed in one direction while the drain valve 19 is opened.

Subsequently, the process shifts to a rinse cycle in step S5. In the rinsing cycle, as shown in Fig. 16, first, the water supply valve 55 is first opened and water is supplied to the set water level (step S51). When the set water level is reached, the stirring operation of rotating the motor 16 (rotating tank 10) in both forward and reverse directions is performed with the water supply valve 55 open (step S52). Here, the motor 16 is driven at the same timing as the stirring operation in the washing stroke.

When the stirring operation is started, the control circuit 92 determines whether the output frequency of the pressure sensor 47 is equal to or less than the threshold value (y kHz) (step S53). This threshold value y is set to a value substantially equal to the threshold value x or to a value slightly larger than the threshold value x.

And when the output of the pressure sensor 47 is larger than the threshold value y (no), it is determined whether the stirring time has passed in step S54. If the stirring time has not elapsed (No), the process returns to step S53, and if the stirring time has elapsed (Yes), the driving of the motor 16 is stopped to end the stirring operation (step S55). )). On the other hand, when the output of the pressure sensor 47 is below the threshold y (S53: YES), stirring operation is complete | finished immediately (step S55).

When the stirring operation is completed, the drain valve 19 is then opened to discharge all the water in the water tank 8 (step S56). Then, " 1 " is added to the number of executions N of the horizontal insertion operation and the drainage operation (step S57), and it is determined whether the execution number N has reached the number M in the next step S58. do. If the number of times of execution N has not reached the number of times M, the process proceeds to step S51 again, and if the number of times of execution N has reached the number of times M, the rinsing cycle is finished. The number of times M is set to one of 1 to 3 based on the detection result of the contamination sensor 90 in the "low foaming detergent" mode, and the number of times of execution (N) in the "general synthetic detergent" mode. ) Is set in advance four times.

When the rinsing stroke is completed, the process proceeds to the second dewatering stroke of step S6 shown in FIG. 10, and the control circuit 92 rotates the tub 10 (motor 16) in a state where the drain valve 19 is opened. Drive high speed rotation in one direction.

When the dehydration stroke is completed, the process proceeds to the drying cycle of step S7. In the drying stroke, the control circuit 92 rotates the motor 16 (rotary tub 10) in the forward and reverse directions at low speed, and starts driving the blower 21 at the same time. In addition, the heating element 28 of the heating device 22 is energized and the water supply valves 36 and 52 are opened. As a result, the humid air in the rotary tub 10 is sucked into the duct 30a at the inlet 31 through the hole 11, as indicated by arrows A in FIGS. 1 and 5. 1 and 5, water is injected into the duct 30a from the water fountain 34a. Moreover, as shown by the arrow C in FIG. 7, water is supplied from the connection port 40 to the duct 30a.

As a result, the air sucked in the duct 30a flows into the casing 23 of the blower 21 from the exhaust port 32 while being condensed and dehumidified by the water sprayed from the water fountain 34a. And it passes in the case 27 of the heating apparatus 22 and the inside of the duct 29 one by one, and returns to the water tank 8, ie, the rotating tank 10. FIG. By such circulation, the air in the rotary tank 10 is warmed and dehumidified, and the laundry is dried.

At this time, as shown in FIG. 7, the lint (silk lint) L1 from the laundry may circulate with the air and be caught by the connection port 38 of the duct 30a and the air trap 37. As a result, the relationship between the amount of bubbles generated in the rotating tank 10 and the pressure in the air trap 37 changes, so that the state of bubbles cannot be accurately detected. In contrast, in the present embodiment, as indicated by the arrow C, water is supplied into the air trap 37 through the water feed tube 51 and the connection port 40. For this reason, the lint L1 which caught the connection port 38 can be dropped in the duct 30a by water flow.

17 to 19 show a second embodiment of the present invention, and explain what is different from the first embodiment. In addition, the same code | symbol is attached | subjected to the same part as 1st Example. This second embodiment differs from the first embodiment in the final drainage operation (the M-time drainage operation) in the rinsing stroke. 17 is a flowchart showing the processing contents of the final drainage operation. First, the control circuit 92 opens the drain valve 19 to discharge the water in the washing tank 8 (step S201). Subsequently, the control circuit 92 determines whether the water level in the water tank 8 is equal to or less than the reset water level (step S202).

This reset water level means the lowest water level detectable by the water level sensor 49. And when the water level in the water tank 8 becomes below the reset water level (Yes), the water supply valve 52 is opened and water supply to the air trap 37 is started (step S203).

Subsequently, the control circuit 92 reads the output frequency of the pressure sensor 47 and determines whether or not it is equal to or less than the threshold value p (step S204). This step S204 is a process for checking whether or not lint is blocked in the connection port 38.

For example, if the lint from the laundry during the last drying operation is blocked by the connection port 38, the water trap is supplied to the air trap 37, and this water W is stored in the air trap 37 as shown in FIG. It is. If water W accumulates in the air trap 37, the pressure in the air trap 37 increases. FIG. 19 shows a change in the output frequency of the pressure sensor 47 when water is supplied to the air trap 37 when lint is blocked at the connection port 38. As shown in FIG. 19, as time elapses, that is, as water W accumulates in the air trap 37, the output frequency of the pressure sensor 47 decreases rapidly, and finally reaches about 36 kHz. In this embodiment, the threshold value P is set to, for example, 37 kHz, which is an unusually low value compared to the output of the pressure sensor 47 when bubbles are generated.

If it is determined in step S204 that the output frequency of the pressure sensor 47 is greater than the threshold value p (no), the flow advances to step S205 to determine whether a predetermined time for the inspection process has elapsed. Judge. If it has not elapsed (NO), the flow returns to step S204, and if it has passed (YES), the water supply valve 52 is closed to stop the water supply to the air trap 37 (step S206). .

On the other hand, when it is determined in step S204 that the output frequency of the pressure sensor 47 is equal to or less than the threshold value p (Yes), the control circuit 92 starts counting the timer (step S207). When the state where the output of the pressure sensor 47 is equal to or less than the threshold value p is continued for 5 seconds (step S208: YES), it is determined that the lint is blocked in the connection port 38, and it is stored (step). (S209)). Then, the water supply valve 52 is closed at step S206 to stop the water supply to the air trap 37.

The rinsing stroke is terminated by the end of the final draining operation, and then the second dewatering stroke and the drying stroke are executed in sequence. At this time, when the lint is blocked at the connection port 38 in step S209, the control circuit 92 sounds the buzzer 98 at the end of the drying stroke and displays an error code (not shown). (81). As a result, the user can recognize that the lint is blocked in the connector 38.

In this way, the connection port 38 is configured to notify that the lint is blocked at the end of all the operations, in order to prevent the detection of the amount of bubbles generated by the pressure sensor 47 in the dehydrating stroke and the drying stroke. In addition, it is not necessary to interrupt the dehydration administration or the drying administration by informing at the end of all operations.

20 shows a third embodiment of the present invention, which is different from the first embodiment. In addition, the same code | symbol is attached | subjected to the same part as 1st Example. In this third embodiment, the judgment is made as to whether or not lint is blocked at the connection port 38 of the air trap 37 during the water supply operation of the rinsing stroke. FIG. 20 is a flowchart showing the processing contents of the water supply operation in the rinsing stroke of the laundry dryer according to the present embodiment, and the control circuit 92 opens the water supply valve 52 to start water supply to the air trap 37. (Step S301). In addition, the control circuit 92 opens the water supply valve 54 to start water supply to the water tank 8 (step S302).

Subsequently, the control circuit 92 reads the output frequency of the pressure sensor 47 and determines whether or not it is equal to or less than the threshold value p (step S303). This step S303 is a process for checking whether lint is blocked in the connection port 38 as in step S204 described above.

If it is determined in step S303 that the output frequency of the pressure sensor 47 is greater than the threshold value p (no), the control circuit 92 proceeds to step S304, where the water level in the water tank 8 is increased. It is determined whether the set level is reached. If the set water level is not reached (No), the flow returns to step S303. If the set water level is reached (Yes), the water supply valve 52 is closed to stop the water supply to the air trap 37 (step). (S305), the process proceeds to the stirring operation.

On the other hand, when it is determined in step S303 that the output frequency of the pressure sensor 47 is equal to or less than the threshold value p (Yes), the control circuit 92 starts counting the timer (step S308). When the state where the output of the pressure sensor 47 is equal to or less than the threshold value p is continued for 5 seconds (step S309: YES), it is determined that the lint is blocked in the connection port 38, and it is stored (step). (S310), the water supply valve 52 is closed to stop the water supply to the air trap 37 (step S305).

Also in such a configuration, the same effects and effects as in the second embodiment can be obtained.

21 and 22 show a fourth embodiment of the present invention, and explain what is different from the first embodiment. In addition, the same code | symbol is attached | subjected to the same part as 1st Example. Fig. 21 is a view showing the operation timing of the water supply valve 54, the heating element 18, and the rotating tub 10 in the washing stroke in the "hot water" mode. The "hot water" mode is set by operating the "hot water" mode switch 73 of the operation panel 3. As shown in FIG. 21, when setting the "hot water" mode, when the water level in the water tank 8 reaches the set water level, energization of the heating element 18 is started. The energization of the heating element 18 is executed until the detection temperature of the temperature sensor 98 reaches 60 ° C.

In addition, during the energization of the heating element 18, the rotary tub 10 is intermittently rotated in the forward and reverse directions. Specifically, the operation of driving the motor 16 in the forward rotation direction at a rotational speed of 30 rpm for 2 seconds, stopping for 38 seconds, for 2 seconds in the reverse rotation direction at the rotational speed of 30 rpm, and for 38 seconds is repeated. When the detected temperature of the temperature sensor 98 reaches 60 ° C, the rotating tub 10 is continuously driven in the forward and reverse directions (stirring operation). Specifically, the operation of driving the motor 16 for 20 seconds in the forward rotation direction, stopping for 2 seconds, driving for 20 seconds in the reverse rotation direction, and stopping for 2 seconds is repeated at a rotational speed of 60 rpm. The stirring operation is performed for a predetermined set time.

In addition, the control circuit 92 performs a predetermined timing to determine whether the bubbles in the rotating tank 10 are excessively generated based on the output frequency of the pressure sensor 47 in parallel with the drive control of the rotating tank 10 described above. Run This determination processing is substantially the same as the content shown in the first embodiment. And when it determines with the generation | occurrence | production of foam | bubble at the time of energizing the heating element 18, the control circuit 92 stops the drive of the heating element 18 and the motor 16. FIG. At this time, the control circuit 92 displays the error code "E: -U" on the display unit 81 as shown in FIG.

As described above, when it is determined that excess foam is generated in the washing stroke, the control circuit 92 opens the drain valve 19 to discharge part of the water in the water tank 8. Therefore, since the water level in the water tank 8 becomes lower than usual, there exists a possibility that it may overheat by the heating element 18. FIG. According to the said structure, since the drive of the heating element 18 and the motor 16 is stopped, the water in the water tank 8 does not become overheated.

23 to 27 show a fifth embodiment of the present invention, and explain what is different from the first embodiment. In addition, the same code | symbol is attached | subjected to the same part as 1st Example. As illustrated in FIG. 23, a Y-shaped pipe joint 111 having a branching port 111a is connected between the connection port 34b of the water supply pipe 34 of the heat exchanger 30 and the water supply tube 35. It is. One end of the water injection tube 112 is connected to the branch 111a of the pipe joint 111.

On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 25 and FIG. 26, the air trap 37 is provided with the connection port 113 as an inflow port instead of the connection port 40. As shown in FIG. The said connection port 113 is provided in the vicinity of the said connection port 38 among the side parts of the air trap 37. As shown in FIG. The other end of the water feed tube 112 is connected to the connection port 113. In addition, as shown in FIG. 24, the water supply device 53 includes one inlet 56 and three outlets (not shown), and each outlet has a water supply valve 36, 54, 55 attached thereto. have. In other words, the water supply apparatus 53 according to the present embodiment does not have a water outlet having the water supply valve 52.

In the present embodiment, when the water supply valve 36 of the water supply device 53 is opened during the drying stroke, tap water is injected into the duct 30a from the water fountain 34a of the water supply pipe 34 through the water supply tube 35. At the same time, it is supplied into the air trap 37 at the connection port 113 through the water feed tubes 35 and 112. At this time, since the connection port 113 is provided in the vicinity of the connection port 38, as shown by an arrow E in FIG. 26, water supplied into the air trap 37 from the connection port 113 is connected to the connection port 38. Head efficiently to the lint jammed in. Thus, the effect of flowing the lint into the water stream is improved.

At this time, the flow rate per unit time of the feed tube 112 is configured to be equal to or less than half the flow rate of the feed tube 35. This is to prevent the water supply amount into the duct 30a from decreasing and the dehumidification performance of the heat exchanger 30 is lowered. In addition, the present inventors change the ratio of the water supply amount W1 into the duct 30a and the water supply amount W2 into the air trap 37 to determine how the dehumidification performance of the heat exchanger 30 changes. Experiment under conditions. The result is shown in FIG. As shown in FIG. 27, when the water supply amount to the air trap 37 exceeds the water supply amount into the duct 30a, dehumidification performance will gradually fall.

FIG. 28 shows a sixth embodiment of the present invention, illustrating what is different from the first embodiment. In the sixth embodiment, the inclined surface 121 inclined toward the connection port 38 is provided below the air trap 37.

According to such a structure, the water supplied to the air trap 37 from the connection port 40 can pass the connection port 38 smoothly. As a result, the effect of letting the lint caught in the connection port 38 flow out into the water stream is improved.

Fig. 29 shows the seventh embodiment of the present invention, which is different from the first embodiment. In this seventh embodiment, as shown by an arrow E in FIG. 29, the water jetted from the water fountain 34a of the main water pipe 34 is configured to face the lower rear side.

According to such a structure, the lint which caught the connection port 38 can also be dropped by the water sprayed from the water fountain 34a.

30 shows an eighth embodiment of the present invention, and describes what is different from the seventh embodiment. In this eighth embodiment, the inner surface of the rear part of the duct 30a is a mirror surface 131. According to such a structure, the lint which entered in the duct 30a is hard to adhere to the inner surface of the back part of the duct 30a, and it is easy to slip off even if it attaches. For this reason, lint can be prevented from actively stuck to the connection port 38.

Fig. 31 shows the ninth embodiment of the present invention and describes what is different from the eighth embodiment. In the ninth embodiment, instead of making the inner surface of the rear surface of the duct 30a a mirror surface 131, for example, a fluorine resin 141 having water repellency is coated. Also in such a configuration, the same effects and effects as in the eighth embodiment can be obtained.

32 shows a tenth embodiment of the present invention, and describes what is different from the first embodiment. In this tenth embodiment, a tapered surface 42a is provided at the connecting portion of the opening 42 with the duct 30a. And the tip end of the connection port 38 is comprised so that it may be located behind the said taper surface 42a.

Such a structure can make lint hard to catch on the connection port 38.

In addition, this invention is not limited to the above-mentioned embodiment, For example, the following modifications and expansions are possible.

When it is determined that generation of bubbles is excessive during the washing operation, the rotational speed of the motor 16 may be reduced. Alternatively, a part of the water in the water tank 8 may be discharged and the rotation speed of the motor 16 may be reduced. Also in such a structure, the quantity of foam | bubble which generate | occur | produces with the washing | cleaning operation after determination can be suppressed small.

If it is determined in step S44 that the flag F is not " 0 ", the buzzer may be sounded to notify that the door lock cannot be released. In addition, both the buzzer sound and the error code display may be executed.

Detection of whether or not lint is blocked in the connection port 38 of the air trap 37 during the water supply operation may be performed during the water supply operation of the washing stroke, during the drainage operation, or during the drainage operation of the rinsing stroke.

The entire inner surface of the duct 30a may be mirror-shaped. Further, the entire inner surface of the duct 30a may be coated with a fluororesin.

As described above, according to the present invention, even when a non-foamed foaming detergent is used, it is possible to provide a washing machine which does not interfere with the rotation of the rotating tub and can obtain a sufficient cleaning effect.

Claims (18)

A drum type washing machine comprising a water tank (8), a rotating water tank (10) rotatably disposed in the water tank, and having laundry contained therein, and a water supply means (53) for supplying water to the water tank. And a foam detecting means (37, 46, 47) for detecting the amount of foam generated in the rotating tank. The method of claim 1, A judging means 92 for judging whether or not the amount of foam generation is excessive based on the detection result of the bubble detection means; A drum type washing machine comprising a foam suppressing means (92) for suppressing. The method of claim 2, Rotating driving means (16, 29) for rotating the rotating tank, When it is determined that the amount of generation of bubbles is excessive by the determination means during the water supply by the water supply means, the bubble suppressing means stops the water supply by the water supply means and simultaneously rotates the rotary tank by the rotation driving means. Drum type washing machine, characterized in that configured. The method of claim 2, A rinsing operation for executing a rinsing operation of the laundry by controlling rotation driving means for rotating the rotating tank, draining means 19 for discharging water in the tank, and driving of the water supply means and the rotary driving means; Means 92, When it is determined that the amount of generation of bubbles is excessive by the determination means during the rinsing operation by the rinsing operation execution means, the bubble suppressing means stops the rotational driving of the rotating tank by the rotary driving means and drains the drainage means. Drum-type washing machine characterized in that to execute the operation. The method of claim 1, An outer case 1 in which the water tank 8 and the rotating tank 10 are accommodated; An opening 14 provided at the front side of the rotating tub, An opening 13 provided in the front of the tank, A laundry entrance 5 installed at the front of the outer case and communicating with the opening of the water tank; A door (2) installed at the front of the outer case and opening and closing the laundry entrance; A locking means 100 for locking the closed state of the door; Pause instructing means (69) for instructing a pause in washing operation; And locking control means 92 for unlocking the locking means based on the operation of the pause instructing means. And the locking control means prohibits the unlocking operation of the locking means when the pause instructing means is operated when the amount of foam generation is determined by the determination means to be excessive. The method of claim 1, A heat exchanger (30) having a duct (30a) communicating with the inside of the water tank, and having drying means (33) for drying the laundry in the rotary tank; The foam detecting means has an air trap (37) communicating with the duct, and a pressure sensor (47) for detecting the pressure in the air trap. The method of claim 6, A drum type washing machine, characterized by comprising an air trap water supply means (53) for supplying water into the air trap. The method of claim 6, The heat exchanger 30 is a dehumidifying water supply means 53 for dehumidifying air in the duct by water supply in the duct 30a, and a dehumidifying water supply for supplying water from the dehumidifying water supply means to the duct. A drum type washing machine having furnaces (34, 35), wherein a branch passage for supplying water to the air trap is provided in the dehumidifying water supply passage. The method of claim 8, And a water supply amount per unit time to the air trap is configured to be equal to or less than a water supply amount per unit time to the duct. The method of claim 7, wherein It is provided with the inlet port 113 is installed in the air trap and supplied from the water supply means for the air trap into the air trap, The inlet is located in the drum type washing machine, characterized in that located in the vicinity of the connection portion 38 of the air trap and the duct. The method of claim 7, wherein An air trap water supply passage 51 for supplying water from the air trap water supply means 53 to the air trap, And the air trap water supply passage is inclined downward from the air trap water supply means toward the air trap. The method of claim 7, wherein Drum type washing machine, characterized in that the inclined surface 121 is inclined downward toward the communication portion between the air trap and the duct in the lower portion of the air trap. The method of claim 6, The heat exchanger is a dehumidification water supply means for dehumidifying air in the duct by water supply in the duct, a water supply pipe 34 installed in the duct and having a water fountain 34a, the water supply means for dehumidification and the main water supply. It is provided with a dehumidifying water supply tube 35 for connecting the water pipe, And the water supplied into the duct from the water fountain is directed toward the communication portion between the duct and the air trap. The method of claim 6, A drum type washing machine, wherein at least a portion of the inner surface of the duct to which the air trap is connected is configured in a mirror shape. The method of claim 6, A drum type washing machine, wherein at least a portion of the inner surface of the duct to which the air trap is connected is water-repellent. The method of claim 6, The drum type washing machine provided with the said duct and which connects the said duct and the said air trap, The peripheral edge part of the part located in the said duct among the said connection ports is tapered. The method of claim 7, wherein A connection port 38 between the air trap and the duct, And lint blockage determining means 92 for judging whether or not lint is blocked in the connection port based on the output of the pressure sensor when water is supplied into the air trap by the air trap supplying means. Drum Washing Machine. The method of claim 17, Washing operation execution means for sequentially performing a washing operation, a plurality of rinsing operations, and a dehydration operation; And a notifying means (81) for notifying the lint at the time when the washing operation is completed, when the lint is determined to be blocked by the lint clogging determining means at the time of the last rinsing operation.