KR20100093472A - Laundry machine and device for producing mist - Google Patents

Abstract

PURPOSE: A laundry machine and a mist generating device are provided to sterilize laundry or to remove bad smell by circulating air by supplying water to the discharge electrode, applying high voltage and then charging a discharge electrode to be negative. CONSTITUTION: A laundry machine is composed of a circulation path, a fan, a dehumidification unit, a heating unit and an electrostatic atomization apparatus(50). The electrostatic atomization apparatus comprises a discharge electrode, a water storing unit(53), a water supply unit, and a high voltage applying unit(58). The discharge electrode is formed from a porous material which has hygroscopicity. The leading end of the discharge electrode is projected into the circulation path. The water storing unit supplies the stored water to the discharge electrode. The water supply unit supplies water to the water storing unit. The high voltage applying unit applies high negative voltage to charge the discharge electrode to be negative.

Description

LAUNDRY MACHINE AND DEVICE FOR PRODUCING MIST}

The present invention relates to a laundry machine configured to circulate air in a tank through a circulation path and a mist generating device provided in the laundry machine.

Some types of laundry machines include, for example, heat pumps. The said laundry machine is equipped with the evaporator which cools and dehumidifies the air which flows in the said circulation passage in the circulation passage (circulation path) connected to the tank, and the condenser which heats the air which flows in the said circulation passage. . The laundry machine supplies air (hot air) heated in the condenser to the tank while circulating the air in the tank through the circulation air passage by a circulation fan in a drying step, and cools and dehumidifies the air discharged from the tank by the evaporator. . The said laundry machine performs drying of clothing in a tank by repeating such an operation | movement.

Such a drying process is performed after the washing process of washing the clothing in a tank. However, various germs and the like adhered to the garments may not fall completely in the washing process, resulting in unsanitary odors, mold, and discoloration of the garments. In particular, in recent years, bath water containing a large number of bacteria and the like may be used as washing water in a washing process for saving water. In this case, the amount of residual bacteria and the like remaining on the clothes tends to increase.

On the other hand, the apparatus described in Unexamined-Japanese-Patent No. 2006-26117 (prior art document 1) is considered as what removes miscellaneous bacteria, a bad smell component, a harmful substance, etc., for example. This apparatus is provided with a discharge electrode, the counter electrode which opposes a discharge electrode, and the Peltier device which generate | occur | produces water in a discharge electrode. In addition, by applying a high voltage between the discharge electrode and the counter electrode, hydroxy radicals having a strong oxidation action are generated. This removes various germs, odor components, harmful substances, and the like.

If the apparatus described in Japanese Laid-Open Patent Publication No. 2006-26117 is installed in the middle of a circulating air path of a laundry machine, hydroxy radicals can be supplied to the tank together with the warm air for drying, and the germs remaining in the garment after the washing step It is thought that the back can be removed.

However, the apparatus described in Japanese Laid-Open Patent Publication No. 2006-26117 has a configuration in which the discharge residual electrode and the counter electrode are opposed in the vicinity. Therefore, a colonna discharge generate | occur | produces between a discharge electrode and a counter electrode, and ozone and nitrogen oxide generate | occur | produce with this. Such ozone and nitrogen oxides discolor clothes or produce odors, and are also harmful gases to the human body.

In particular, in a highly sealed drum-type laundry machine, harmful gases (ozone and nitrogen oxides) generated easily remain in the tank. Therefore, there is a high possibility that the user is exposed to the harmful gas when entering and leaving the garment. As a means of solving such a problem, the structure which locks the cover of a tank until the toxic gas which generate | occur | produced is extinguished is considered. However, in such a configuration, clothes cannot be taken out immediately after the end of washing, and thus the convenience of use deteriorates.

An object of the present invention is to provide a hydroxy radical without generating harmful gas, and a laundry machine capable of disinfecting or deodorizing clothing in a tank, and mist generation provided in the laundry machine. It is to provide a device.

The laundry machine of the present invention includes a circulation path connected to a tank, a blowing means for circulating air in the tank through the circulation path, a dehumidifying means for cooling and dehumidifying the air flowing in the circulation path, and the inside of the circulation path. It is formed of a porous material having heating means for heating the flowing air and having absorbent, water-retaining, and suction characteristics, and is formed of a discharge electrode and a water-retaining porous material, the tip of which is provided so as to protrude inside the circulation path. And an electrostatic atomization device comprising water supply means for supplying the repaired water to the discharge electrode, water supply means for supplying the water repair means, and high voltage applying means for applying a negative high voltage to the discharge electrode to charge the discharge electrode negatively. It is characterized by one.

According to the laundry machine of this invention, the water repaired by the repair means is supplied to the discharge electrode which the front-end part protruded in the circulation path. Then, a negative high voltage is applied to the discharge electrode supplied with water by the high voltage applying means. As a result, the water at the tip end portion of the discharge electrode is split so as to be discharged in a mist shape inside the circulation path. Here, the water particles released in the mist form are negatively charged and contain hydroxy radicals generated by the energy. Therefore, hydroxy radicals having a strong oxidation action are supplied to the tank together with the air flowing in the circulation path, so that the clothes in the tank can be sterilized or deodorized.

In this case, the other electrode corresponding to the discharge electrode negatively charged by the high voltage applying means is not provided in the vicinity of the discharge electrode. Therefore, the discharge itself from the discharge electrode becomes very mild. Therefore, unlike the conventional structure in which the colon and discharge generate | occur | produced between the discharge electrode and the counter electrode, generation | occurrence | production of harmful gas, such as ozone and nitrogen oxide, can be suppressed.

The mist generating device of the present invention is a discharge electrode formed of a porous material having absorbent, water-retaining and suction characteristics, water-retaining means formed from a porous material having water-retainability and repaired to the discharge electrode, and water supplying water to the water-retaining means. And a supply means, and a high voltage applying means for generating a mist from the discharge electrode by applying a negative high voltage to the discharge electrode, wherein a space portion is provided in a part of the water supply path from the water supply means to the maintenance means. do.

According to the mist generating apparatus of this invention, it is equipped with the laundry machine comprised so that the air in a tank may be circulated through a circulation path, and the effect similar to the laundry machine of this invention can be expected.

(First Embodiment)

EMBODIMENT OF THE INVENTION Hereinafter, 1st Embodiment of this invention is described, referring FIGS. 2 is a perspective view showing an overall appearance of the drum-type laundry machine 1. As shown in FIG. 2, the housing 2 constituting the outline of the laundry machine 1 has an almost rectangular box shape in which the front surface is inclined smoothly. The left and right sides of the housing 2 are provided with handles 3 for use in the movement of the laundry machine 1 and the like. Moreover, the tap water supply port 4 and the bath water supply port 5 are provided in the upper surface of the housing 2.

An almost circular door 6 is provided in the center portion of the front face of the housing 2 and an operation button 7 for opening the door 6 is provided. Moreover, the operation panel 8 and the detergent supplying part 9 are provided in the upper part of the front surface of the housing 2. The operation panel 8 is connected to a control device 10 (see FIG. 3) provided inside the housing 2. In addition, the operation panel 8 is provided with various switches for selecting various driving courses or starting driving, for example. Moreover, the control apparatus 10 is comprised including ROM, RAM, etc. mainly the microcomputer. The control device 10 is configured to control the overall operation of the laundry machine 1 based on various input signals or previously stored control programs. The lower part of the housing | casing 2 is provided with the filter accommodating part 11 in which a lint filter (not shown) is detachably attached. The lint filter is for capturing foreign matter (debris, etc.) contained in the water in the circulating water passage (not shown) circulating the drainage water from the water tank 12 (see FIG. 3) or the water in the water tank 12.

Next, the internal structure of the laundry machine 1 is demonstrated, referring FIG. 3 is a longitudinal side view schematically showing the internal configuration of the laundry machine 1. As illustrated in FIG. 3, a water tank 12 (corresponding to a tank) is provided inside the housing 2. The drum 13 is provided inside the water tank 12.

These tanks 12 and the drum 13 all have a bottomed cylindrical shape with one end closed, and each has an opening 14 and an opening 15 at the end face of the front side (left side in FIG. 3). have. The opening 15 of the drum 13 is surrounded by the opening 14 of the water tank 12. The opening 14 of the water tank 12 is connected by the bellows 17 to the opening 16 formed in the front surface part of the housing 2. The above-mentioned door 6 is provided in the opening 16 so that opening and closing is possible. As a result, an opening (which is an opening for entry of laundry (clothes, etc.)) consisting of the opening 14, the opening 15, and the opening 16 is opened and closed by the door 6.

Around the opening 15 of the drum 13, for example, a liquid sealed rotary balancer 18 is provided. A plurality of holes 19 (only one part is shown) are formed almost all over the circumferential side (body part) of the drum 13. These holes 19 function as water holes during the washing process, the rinsing process and the dehydration process, and function as the ventilation holes during the drying process. A plurality of baffles 20 protrude from the inner surface of the circumferential side of the drum 13. A plurality of warm air inlets 21 are formed in the end face of the rear side of the drum 13. These warm air introduction ports 21 are arranged in an annular shape so as to be concentric with the central axis of the drum 13.

The water tank 12 is equipped with the hot air outlet 22 in the upper part (part above the opening part 14) of the front end surface part. Moreover, the water tank 12 is equipped with the warm air inlet 23 in the upper part of a rear end surface part facing the rotational track of the said warm air inlet 21. As shown in FIG.

The water supply hose 25 is connected to the upper part of the water tank 12 via the water supply hose 24. The tap water supply port 4 and the bath water supply port 5 are connected to the water supply case 25 via a water supply valve 26. These allow tap water from the tap water supply port 4 or bath water from the bath water supply port 5 to pass through the water supply valve 26, the water supply case 25, and the water supply hose 24. It is designed to be supplied internally. In addition, the water supply case 25 is configured to be introduced into the detergents (detergent, soft finish, bleach, etc.) through the detergent inlet (9). These detergents are configured to be supplied into the water tank 12 together with tap water or bath water.

The drain port 27 is formed in the last part of the bottom part of the water tank 12. As shown in FIG. A drain hose 28 (corresponding to a drainage path) connected to the outside of the laundry machine 1 is connected to the drain port 27. The drain valve 29 is provided in the middle of the drain hose 28. By these, the water in the water tank 12 can be drained out of a washing machine.

The motor 30 is attached to the rear part of the water tank 12. The rotating shaft 31 of the motor 30 protrudes in the water tank 12. The center part of the cross section of the back side of the drum 13 is attached to the front-end | tip part of the rotating shaft 31. As shown in FIG. As a result, the drum 13 is rotatably supported by the water tank 12 in a coaxial shape. In other words, the laundry machine 1 is configured to directly drive the drum 13 by the motor 30, and employs a direct drive method by the motor 30. In this case, the motor 30 is constituted by an outer rotor type brushless DC motor.

The water tank 12 is elastically supported by the housing 2 by the some suspension 32 (only one illustration). The support form of the water tank 12 is a horizontal axis shape in which the axial direction of the water tank 12 becomes a front-back direction, and is the inclined shape which goes up forward. Therefore, the drum 13 supported as mentioned above in this water tank 12 is also the same form.

The base plate 33 is arrange | positioned below the water tank 12 (on the bottom face of the housing 2). On the said base plate 33, the ventilation duct 34 extended in the front-back direction is arrange | positioned. The said ventilation duct 34 has the air vent 35 in the upper part of a front end part. The air intake port 35 is connected to the hot air outlet 22 of the water tank 12 through the connection hose 36 and the ventilation duct 37. In addition, the ventilation duct 37 is piped so that the side part of the opening part 14 of the water tank 12 may be bypassed.

The casing 39 of the ventilation blower 38 is provided in series at the rear end of the ventilation duct 34. The outlet part 40 of the said casing 39 is connected to the hot air inlet 23 of the water tank 12 via the connection hose 41 and the hot air duct 42. As shown in FIG. In addition, the hot air duct 42 is piped so that the right side of the motor 30 may be bypassed as seen from the back side of the water tank 12 (Lundry machine 1). Here, the water tank 12 by the blowing duct 37, the connection hose 36, the ventilation duct 34, the casing 39 of the ventilation blower 38, the connection hose 41, and the air supply duct 42 is carried out. The circulation air passage 43 (corresponding to the circulation path) connected to the structure is configured.

The circulation blower 38 is constituted by a centrifugal fan in this case. That is, the circulation blower 38 is provided with the centrifugal vane wheel 44 inside the casing 39, and is provided with the motor 45 which rotates the centrifugal vane wheel 44 outside the casing 39. Doing. The circulation blower 38 functions as a blowing means for circulating the air in the water tank 12 (in the drum 13) through the circulation air path 43, as shown by the arrow in FIG.

The evaporator 46 (corresponding to dehumidification means) is disposed in the front portion of the circulation air passage 43, and the condenser 47 (corresponding to the heating means) is disposed in the rear portion. Although these evaporator 46 and the condenser 47 are not shown in detail at all, they are a tube type with a fin which consists of many heat fins provided by a thin pitch. Therefore, these evaporator 46 and the condenser 47 are excellent in heat exchange property, and are made so that the wind (see the arrow shown by the solid line in FIG. 3) which flows in the ventilation duct 34 between each of these heating fins may pass. .

The evaporator 46 and the condenser 47 constitute a heat pump 49 together with the compressor 48 and a flow control valve (for example, an electronic control valve) not shown. In the heat pump 49, these are cycle-connected in the order of the compressor 48, the condenser 47, the flow control valve, and the evaporator 46 by the refrigerant | coolant distribution pipe, and the refrigeration cycle is comprised by this. The drive of the compressor 48 or the flow control valve is made to be controlled by the control device 10.

The control device 10 is configured to circulate the air in the water tank 12 through the circulation air passage 43 by operating the circulation blower 38 as described above. In addition, the control device 10 is configured to circulate the refrigerant of the refrigeration cycle by operating the compressor 48 or the flow control valve. The air flowing in the circulation air passage 43 is cooled and dehumidified by the evaporator 46, and heated by the condenser 47 to warm the air. Thereby, the control apparatus 10 is comprised so that the drying operation which supplies warm air in the water tank 12 and drys the laundry in the water tank 12 (in the drum 13) can be performed.

The electrostatic atomization device 50 is provided in the middle part of the circulation air passage 43 in the laundry machine 1 having such a configuration. As shown in FIG. 4, the electrostatic atomizing device 50 is upstream from the hot air inlet 23 and downstream from the connecting hose 41 in the hot air duct 42 constituting the intermediate portion of the circulation air passage 43. And a portion immediately after the downstream end of the connecting hose 41 (in FIG. 4, the lower end portion of the portion in which the air duct 42 extends upward while bypassing the motor 30).

Next, the structure of the said electrostatic atomization apparatus 50 is demonstrated, referring FIG. The electrostatic atomization device 50 is composed of a plurality of discharge electrodes 52, a repair material 53 (corresponding to repair means), a conductive rod 54, etc., in a case 51 attached to the outside of the circulation air passage 43. It is comprised including the mist generator and the water supply means.

The discharge electrode 52 is formed of a porous material (e.g., a felt material made of fibrous polyester) having absorbent, water-retaining, and suction characteristics, each of which has a pointed pin shape with a tip end (top end in FIG. 1). The plurality of discharge electrodes 52 are fixed to the fixing plate 55 by passing through the fixing plate 55 made of an insulating material (for example, resin such as polypropylene). The plurality of discharge electrodes 52 are provided such that their respective tips protrude into the circulation air passage 43. The plurality of discharge electrodes 52 is composed of a discharge electrode 52a disposed in the center portion and a plurality of discharge electrodes 52b disposed concentrically around the discharge electrode 52a. In this case, the discharge electrode 52a in the center portion is formed longer than the surrounding discharge electrode 52b. The base end (lower end in FIG. 1) of the discharge electrode 52a extends to the storage tank 51a (corresponding to the storage tank) provided below the discharge electrode 52 in the case 51.

The water retaining material 53 is formed of the porous material (for example, urethane sponge) which has water retention property, and is provided below the fixed plate 55. As shown in FIG. The water discharge member 53 is inserted through the plurality of discharge electrodes 52. Thereby, the external part (lower part in FIG. 1) of the circulation air passage 43 among the discharge electrodes 52 is covered with the water retaining material 53.

A water supply path 56 (see FIG. 3) extending from the water supply valve 26 is connected to the storage tank 51a, and is configured to supply water to the water retaining material 53 as the water supply means. In this case, the water supply valve 26 is switchable so that only the tap water supply port 4 of the two water supply ports 4 and 5 is opened to the water supply path 56. Therefore, a part of tap water from the tap water supply port 4 is made to be supplied to the water storage tank part 51a via the water supply valve 26 and the water supply path 56. As shown in FIG.

Then, the water supplied into the reservoir tank portion 55a is absorbed (sucked up) through the discharge electrode 52a extending to the reservoir tank portion 55a and supplied to the water retaining material 53. Water supplied to the water retaining material 53 penetrates into the water retaining material 53, and thus water is supplied to the discharge electrode 52a and the discharge electrode 52b. Here, the water supply valve 26 functions as a part of the water supply means for supplying water to the water retaining material 53 through the tap water supply port 4, the water supply path 56, the water storage tank portion 55a, and the discharge electrode 52a. .

In addition, the discharge electrode 52a includes not only water supplied from the water retaining material 53, but also water absorbed by the discharge electrode 52a itself from the reservoir tank portion 55a. In addition, since the discharge electrode 52b is disposed concentrically around the discharge electrode 52a, water penetrating into the water retainer 53 from the discharge electrode 52a is equally supplied to the surrounding discharge electrode 52b. have.

In addition, a water storage path 57 (see FIG. 3) is connected to the water storage tank 51a which extends downstream of the drain valve 29 in the drain hose 28. The water passage 57 has an end portion 57a extending to the inside of the water storage tank portion 51a. Thereby, the water quantity until the water level reaches the edge part 57a (water level shown by the broken line in FIG. 1, for example, less than 1 cc) is able to be stored in the water storage tank part 51a. When the water level in the water storage tank 51a reaches the end 57a, the water in the water storage tank 51a flows from the end 57a. The overflowed water is configured to be drained to the drain hose 28 through the water passage 57.

The tip of the conductive rod 54 is fixed to the fixing plate 55 through the water retaining member 53. The conductive rod 54 has a proximal end connected to a negative electrode (for example, -6 kV) of the high voltage power supply 58 of a power supply circuit (not shown) of the laundry machine 1. As a result, a negative high voltage from the high voltage power source 58 is applied to the discharge electrode 52 through the conductive rod 54 and the water retaining material 53 containing water, and the discharge electrode 52 is negatively charged. . In other words, high voltage applying means for applying a negative high voltage to the discharge electrode 52 from these conductive rods 54 and the high voltage power source 58 to negatively charge the discharge electrode 52 is configured.

In this case, the housing 2 of the laundry machine 1 is made to be grounded through a ground wire (not shown) or the like. The other housing corresponding to the negatively charged discharge electrode 52 is a housing 2 (a member provided at a position not opposed to the vicinity of the discharge electrode 52 and remote from the discharge electrode 52) thus grounded. It is comprised so that it may function as an electrode (counter electrode).

3 and 4, a partition plate 43a is provided at a portion of the circulation air passage 43 in which the electrostatic atomization device 50 is installed. The partition plate 43a has a shade portion 43b inclined downward and is provided so as to face the upper side of the discharge electrode 52 of the electrostatic atomizing device 50. As a result, a part of the air (hot air) flowing in the circulation air passage 43 is supplied to the electrostatic atomization device 50 side, and passes through the discharge electrode 52 and the peripheral portion thereof, and then joins the circulation air passage 43. (See the arrow shown by the broken line in FIG. 3).

According to the laundry machine 1 provided with the electrostatic atomization device 50 configured as described above, the water stored in the water storage tank part 51a is supplied to the water retaining material 53 through the discharge electrode 52a. The water repaired by the water retaining material 53 is supplied to the discharge electrode 52 whose tip portion protrudes inside the circulation air passage 43. Then, a negative high voltage from the high voltage power source 58 is applied to the discharge electrode 52 supplied with water. At this time, charge is concentrated at the tip of the discharge electrode 52, and energy exceeding the surface tension is applied to the water contained in the tip. As a result, the water at the distal end of the discharge electrode 52 splits (Rayleigh splitting), and is discharged in a mist form inside the circulation air passage 43. That is, the electrostatic atomization phenomenon occurs. Here, the water particles released in the mist form are negatively charged and contain hydroxy radicals generated by the energy. Therefore, hydroxy radicals having a strong oxidation action are supplied into the water tank 12 together with the air (hot air) flowing in the circulation air passage 43, so as to disinfect laundry (clothes, etc.) in the water tank 12, Deodorization becomes possible.

In this case, the laundry machine 1 does not provide the other electrode corresponding to the discharge electrode 52 negatively charged by the negative high voltage from the high voltage power supply 58 in the vicinity of the discharge electrode 52. . Therefore, the discharge itself from the discharge electrode 52 proceeds very gently. Therefore, unlike the conventional configuration in which a colon or discharge has occurred between the discharge electrode and the counter electrode, generation of harmful gases (nitrogen oxide, nitrous acid, nitric acid, etc. generated by ozone or the ozone oxidizing nitrogen in the air) is suppressed. can do.

Therefore, even in the drum-type laundry machine 1 (which has a door 6 or a bellows 17 installed in the laundry entry port and has a high airtightness), no harmful gas remains in the water tank 12 or the like. There is no fear that the user will be exposed to harmful gases. In addition, there is no fear of discoloration of clothing or generation of odor due to harmful gases.

Moreover, since the laundry machine 1 can suppress generation | occurrence | production of a toxic gas in this way, it is not necessary to provide the structure (for example, an ozone decomposition catalyst) for removing a toxic gas.

In addition, only the tap water from the water supply port 4 for tap water with high cleanness is supplied to the water storage tank part 51a. The reservoir tank 51a is configured such that the bath water from the water supply port 5 for bathing water (which contains a large amount of bacteria and minerals (for example, calcium and magnesium) in comparison with tap water) is not supplied. Therefore, the inside of the storage tank 51a becomes difficult to become unsanitary by various germs and the like. In addition, the mineral powder contained in the bath water does not reach the discharge electrode 52, and thus, the mineral powder does not aggregate and form a scale at the discharge electrode 52. Therefore, the discharge electrode 52 can maintain the water permeability satisfactorily without clogging, and can prevent that the discharge amount of mist (water particle | grains discharge | released in mist shape) falls. In addition, the service life of the discharge electrode 52 itself can be lengthened.

In addition, as long as the electrostatic atomization apparatus 50 is an intermediate part of the circulation air passage 43, it can install in arbitrary parts. However, as shown in this embodiment, it is preferable to provide in the part comprised by the quick air duct 42 among the circulation air paths 43. The hot air duct 42 constitutes a portion downstream from the evaporator 46 and the condenser 47 in the circulation air passage 43. Therefore, it is because the hydroxy radical which generate | occur | produced in this part becomes hard to be influenced by the cooling action of the evaporator 46 and the heating action of the condenser 47.

(Second Embodiment)

Next, a second embodiment of the present invention will be described. In this embodiment, the platinum nanocolloid of the discharge electrode 52 of the mist generator is supported. The platinum nano colloid may be supported by, for example, immersing the discharge electrode 52 in a treatment liquid containing the platinum nano colloid and firing it.

When platinum is made small to nano size (for example, particle diameters 2-5 nm) (particulates), the microparticles (platinum nanoparticles) become dislocations. When negative charge is applied to the platinum nanoparticles through the discharge electrode 52, the potential (redox potential) of the platinum nanoparticles becomes negative. When the air in the circulating air passage 43 is brought into contact with the platinum nanoparticles having a negative conversion-reduction potential, the potential shift from oxygen molecules is promoted on the platinum nanoparticles, and a negatively charged oxygen atom is generated. The negatively charged oxygen atoms become oxygen radicals by their energy, are released from the platinum nanoparticles, and are released into the circulating air passage 43. Oxygen radicals released in the circulating air passage 43 contact with the water particles released in the mist shape in the circulating air passage 43, whereby hydroxy radicals are generated.

Further, even if platinum particles, which are not small to nano size, are supported on the discharge electrode 52, such platinum particles have a positive charge. Therefore, it is not possible to produce oxygen radicals or hydroxy radicals having a strong oxidation action.

According to the present embodiment, hydroxy radicals are easily generated in the circulating air passage 43 by the platinum nanocolloid supported on the discharge electrode 52, and the disinfection function and deodorization in the water tank 12 by the electrostatic atomizer 50 are achieved. The function can be further improved.

(Third embodiment)

Next, a third embodiment of the present invention will be described. In this embodiment, the water retaining material 53 in the mist generator is formed of a fibrous ion exchange resin instead of a urethane sponge. Therefore, the part of the outer side of the circulation airflow path 43 of the discharge electrode 52 is comprised by the ion exchange resin. In this case, the ion exchange resin is formed by mixing a strongly acidic ion exchange resin and a strongly alkaline ion exchange resin.

According to such a structure, before the tap water from the tap water supply port 4 is supplied to the discharge electrode 52, the mineral content contained in the said tap water is adsorbed and removed by ion exchange resin. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the accumulation of scale on the discharge electrode 52. Thereby, the water permeability of the discharge electrode 52 can be maintained favorably, and the discharge electrode 52 can be appropriately negatively charged. Therefore, the discharge amount of mist can be prevented from falling. In addition, the service life of the discharge electrode 52 itself can be lengthened. In addition, since the ion exchange resin is fibrous, it is difficult to flow from the water retaining material 53.

In addition, the water retaining material 53 may be formed by mixing an absorbent resin (for example, cellulose, sodium polyacrylate, polyvinyl alcohol resin, polyamide resin, etc.) with ion exchange resin. As a result, the water retaining property of the water retaining material 53 is improved, and water for supplying to the discharge electrode 52 is less likely to be insufficient, so that the water supply to the discharge electrode 52 is uniformly performed. Although it may be fibrous or particle shape as water absorbing resin, it is more preferable that the surface area per weight is large.

Moreover, although there exists a possibility of the outflow of ion exchange resin, the whole of the repair material 53 is not formed with fibrous ion exchange resin, For example, the ion exchange resin of the particle shape (bead shape) of tens of microns-several hundred microns of particle diameters is used. The water retaining material 53 may be formed by mixing with the urethane sponge. For example, ion exchange resin may be accommodated in the water storage tank part 51a in the water permeable cassette provided with many holes. For example, a column filled with an ion exchange resin may be provided in the middle of the water supply path 56. What is important is just a structure which can remove mineral powder by making an ion exchange resin contact with the said water, before water is supplied to the discharge electrode 52. FIG.

(Fourth Embodiment)

Next, a fourth embodiment of the present invention will be described. In each of the above-described embodiments, the negative high voltage from the high voltage power supply 58 in the electrostatic atomizing device 50 is applied to the discharge electrode 52 through water contained in the water retaining material 53. This is for maintaining electricity supply efficiency appropriately by making electricity flow easily through water, and preventing ignition by heating etc. resulting from electroconductivity fall. However, when the mineral powder contained in water is removed by ion-exchange resin as shown in 3rd Embodiment mentioned above, there exists a possibility that electroconductivity of water may fall largely and electricity supply efficiency may fall.

Therefore, in the present embodiment, the discharge electrode 52 is formed by mixing a conductive material (for example, carbon fiber) on a porous material (for example, a felt material made of fibrous polyester) having absorbency, water retention, and suction characteristics. It is. According to such a structure, the discharge electrode 52 itself becomes conductive. Therefore, even when the conductivity of water is lowered, a negative high voltage from the high voltage power source 58 is appropriately applied to the discharge electrode 52. Thereby, ignition etc. by the heating resulting from electroconductivity fall can be prevented. In addition, the discharge from the discharge electrode 52 is stabilized.

In addition, the discharge electrode 52 may be formed of only a felt material made of carbon fiber, for example, and the whole discharge electrode 52 may be made of a conductive material.

(5th embodiment)

Next, 5th Embodiment of this invention is described, referring FIG. 5 which attaches | subjects the same code | symbol to the same part as 1st Embodiment. In this embodiment, the antibacterial agent 61 is installed in the water storage tank part 51a.

In this case, the disinfectant 61 is formed as a cube-shaped block material, and is composed of silver oxide and calcium phosphate (equivalent to phosphate-based glass). A silver oxide performs a bactericidal action by eluting silver (corresponding to a metal element having bactericidal property) contained in the silver oxide as silver ions in water.

Calcium phosphate has a property (elubility solubility) which elutes slowly with respect to water, and it performs a function which gradually reduces the volume of the disinfectant 61 itself by this solubility. Moreover, calcium phosphate has hardness (hardness) which is a property as glass. Therefore, the function which gives mechanical strength (hardness) to the disinfectant 61 is also performed.

According to the present embodiment, the proliferation of various fungi in the storage tank 51a can be suppressed by the silver ions eluted from the disinfectant 61, and further, the electrostatic atomization in the storage tank 51a. The device 50 can be kept hygienic. Moreover, generation | occurrence | production of the slime derived from various fungi can be suppressed, and the fall of the absorptivity to the discharge electrode 52, and the fall of mist discharge amount can be prevented. In addition, silver ions are contained in the water supplied to the discharge electrode 52 and further, mist-shaped water particles discharged from the discharge electrode 52, and the silver ions are supplied into the water tank 12. Thereby, it becomes possible to provide antibacterial property to the laundry in the water tank 12.

In addition, the phosphoric acid component contained in the disinfectant 61 forms a chelate structure (Ca ₂ P ₆ O ₁₈ ^2- , Mg ₂ P ₆ O ₁₈ ^2- ) with respect to mineral powder (calcium or magnesium) when dissolved in water. To increase the solubility of minerals. As a result, the mineral powder becomes difficult to aggregate on the discharge electrode 52, and scales are not accumulated and accumulated. Accordingly, the discharge electrode 52 can maintain good water permeability without causing clogging, and can prevent the discharge amount of mist (water particles emitted in the mist form) from decreasing. In addition, the service life of the discharge electrode 52 itself can be lengthened.

In addition, the disinfectant 61 may include zinc oxide, which serves to prevent browning of the silver oxide, or cobalt oxide, which is added to color the disinfectant 61 in blue. In addition, the shape of the disinfectant 61 is not limited to a cube, For example, disk shape or plate shape may be sufficient. In addition, it is possible to adjust the elution amount of silver ions by appropriately changing the weight and size per particle.

(6th Embodiment)

Next, a sixth embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to Figs. 6 and 7 in which like parts are denoted by the same reference numerals as in the first embodiment. In this embodiment, the curvature of the front-end | tip part of several discharge electrode 71 is set in multiple numbers.

That is, as shown in Figs. 6 and 7, the discharge electrode 71a disposed at the center portion has a curvature (radius of the distal end portion) of the distal end portion of 1 to 2 mm. In contrast, the plurality of discharge electrodes 71b disposed around the discharge electrode 71a has a larger curvature at the tip portion than the discharge electrode 71a, and is about 5 mm in size. In other words, the tip portion of the discharge electrode 71a in the center portion is sharp, while the tip portion of the peripheral discharge electrode 71b is smooth and has a hemispherical shape. And the curvature of the front-end | tip part of each discharge electrode 71b is changed. In addition, the peripheral discharge electrodes 71b are arranged concentrically around the discharge electrode 71a as shown in FIG.

In general, the sharper the tip of the discharge electrode is, the higher the discharge voltage is, and the smaller the particle diameter of the water particles emitted in the mist form (a few tens of nm to several hundred nm). Therefore, the ratio (content) of the hydroxy radicals contained in the water particles can be increased. In this case, however, the amount of mist generated itself is reduced. On the other hand, when the tip of the discharge electrode is rounded, the amount of mist generated can be increased. However, the particle diameter of the released water particles is increased and the proportion of hydroxy radicals contained in the water particles is reduced.

Therefore, in this embodiment, the curvature of the front-end | tip part of the discharge electrode 71 was set in multiple numbers, and it was set as the structure which the discharge | discharge electrode with a pointed tip part and the rounded discharge electrode mixed. According to such a structure, it becomes possible to greatly increase the ratio of the hydroxy radical contained in water particle | grains, suppressing the reduction of the generation amount of mist extremely. As a result, both the amount of mist generated and the content of hydroxy radicals are stabilized, and the generated mist and hydroxy radicals are uniformly released. Therefore, an efficient bactericidal action and a deodorizing action can be realized.

For example, the curvature of the tip of the discharge electrode 71a in the center portion may be increased, and the curvature of the tip of the discharge electrode 71b in the vicinity may be reduced. What is important is a structure in which a round discharge electrode having a large curvature of the tip and a sharp discharge electrode having a small curvature of the tip are mixed. In addition, the curvature of each discharge electrode is not limited to said numerical value, It can change suitably and can set.

(7th Embodiment)

Hereinafter, a seventh embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. 8 to 11. This embodiment is embodiment regarding a mist generating apparatus (corresponding to an electrostatic atomization apparatus). 8 is a diagram schematically showing the configuration of the mist generating device 81. The mist generating apparatus 81 is comprised including the water supply path 82 and the mist generator 83. As shown in FIG.

The water supply path 82 is a first repair material 99 (see FIG. 11) in a mist generator 83 to be described later from a water supply valve 84 (corresponding to a water supply means) connected to a water supply source (faucet, etc.) (not shown). To reach. The water supply path 82 is provided with the U-shaped trap pipe 85 in a part thereof.

The U-shaped trap tube 85 is formed in a hollow shape that is long in the vertical direction as a whole, and has a partition portion 85a having a lower end opening therein. Thereby, the channel which has a substantially U-shaped cross section is formed in the inside of the said U-shaped trap pipe 85, and it is set as the structure which can be stored in the said channel part. The U-shaped trap pipe 85 has a water supply port 85b in an upstream portion (upper portion on the right side in FIG. 8) and a drain hole 85c in a downstream portion (upper portion in the upper and lower direction in the left side in FIG. 8). have. In addition, the U-shaped trap pipe 85 has a work outlet 85d at a position lower than the drain port 85c near the lower portion of the water supply port 85b. Moreover, the opening size of the said water outlet 85d is set larger than the opening size of the drain port 85c.

The water supply port 84b is connected to the water supply valve 84 via the water supply line 86. A drain pipe 87 is communicated with the drain port 85c by bending downwardly. The buffer tank 89 is connected to the water supply port 85d via the water supply pipe 88. The drain tank 90 is connected to the bottom of the buffer tank 89. A drain valve 91 is provided in the middle of the drain passage 90. In addition, a pressurization device 93 (corresponding to an internal pressure raising means), for example, which is made of a fan device is connected to the upper portion of the tank 89 for buffers through a pressurization tube 92.

The pressurizing device 93 is a drainage valve 91 of the buffer tank 89 is closed, the water supply port (92) through the pressurization tube 92, the buffer tank 89, the water supply pipe 88 Air is fed into the U-shaped trap pipe 85 (especially within the upstream portion) from 85d). Thereby, the pressurization apparatus 93 is comprised so that the pressure (inner pressure) in the U-shaped trap pipe 85 may be raised. In addition, the pressurization apparatus 93 may not be comprised from a fan apparatus but may be comprised by a pressure feed pump, a compressor, etc., for example.

On the other hand, the mist generator 83 is provided with the water supply part 94 extended to the U-shaped trap pipe 85 side. A watering pot 94a is provided at an upper end of the water end 94. Moreover, the ion exchange resin 95 is provided in the part which faces the water supply hole 94a inside the water supply part 94. As shown in FIG. The water supply hole 94a of the water supply part 94 opposes the front-end | tip part (lower end part in FIG. 8) of the said water drainage conduit 87 from below, and is spaced apart from the front end of the said drainage conduit 87. It is. Thereby, the air-conditioning part 96 which is open | released to the air is formed between the front-end | tip part of the drainage conduit 87, and the waterway 94a.

According to such a configuration, the water (see arrow A in FIG. 9) supplied from the water supply valve 84 to the U-shaped trap pipe 85 through the water supply line 86 is gradually formed in the U-shaped trap pipe 85. Stored. When the water level of the water supplied into the U-shaped trap pipe 85 exceeds the height of the water drain port 85d, the water overflowed from the water drain port 85d flows through the water supply pipe 88 through the buffer tank ( 89) (see arrow B in FIG. 9). The water which flows out in the buffer tank 89 is made to drain to the outside by opening the drain valve 91 suitably.

The U-shaped trap tube 85 flows out the overflowed water into the buffer tank 89 so as not to drain from the drain port 85c, but to a predetermined amount (in this case, the water level is 85d). Quantity of water to be the height of)) is stored. In addition, together with this, the U-shaped trap pipe 85 forms a space 97 on the upstream side. Thus, the space part 97 is formed in the U-shaped trap tube 85, and the water in the water supply valve 84 and the U-shaped trap tube 85 is isolate | separated. In this way, the water supply path 82 is formed such that two spaces 96 and 97 are formed.

Then, the pressurizing device 93 pressurizes the air into the U-shaped trap tube 85 in the state where the water supply valve 84 is closed (the state in which the water supply into the U-shaped trap tube 85 is stopped) (in Fig. 10). Arrow C) raises the internal pressure of the space 97 formed in the upstream portion of the U-shaped trap pipe 85. As a result, water stored in the U trap pipe 85 is extruded from the upstream side toward the downstream side and drained from the drain port 85c (see arrow D in FIG. 10), and the water is passed through the drainage pipe 87. Water is supplied to the portion 94.

In this case, the water supply amount from the U-shaped trap pipe 85 to the water supply part 94 can be adjusted by changing, for example, the air feed amount from the pressurization device 93. That is, you may make it supply all the water in the U-shaped trap pipe 85 to the water supply part 94 by increasing (strongly) increasing the quantity of air conveyed from the pressurization apparatus 93. FIG. Moreover, you may make it supply a part of the water in the U-shaped trap pipe 85 to the water supply part 94 by reducing (weak) the amount of air conveyed from the pressurization apparatus 93.

Next, the mist generator 83 is demonstrated with reference to FIG. 11 is a longitudinal side view schematically showing the configuration of the mist generator 83.

The mist generator 83 has a first repairing material 99 (corresponding to a repairing means), a second repairing material 100, an absorbing member 101 (corresponding to a water supply means), and a plurality ( In FIG. 11, four discharge electrodes 102, a conductive rod 103 (corresponding to a high voltage applying means), and the like are provided.

The case 98 is made of an insulating material (for example, a resin such as polypropylene), and is configured as a water storage tank portion 98a (corresponding to a water storage tank) whose lower portion can be stored in a hollow shape. The water supply part 94 is connected to the side part of the water storage tank part 98a. As described above, the water supplied from the U-shaped trap pipe 85 is introduced into the water storage tank portion 98a through the water supply portion 94.

Moreover, the water flow path 104 is connected to the bottom part of the water storage tank part 98a. The water passage 104 has an end portion 104a extending to the inside of the reservoir tank portion 98a. Thereby, the water of the quantity of water (for example, less than 100 cc) until the water level reaches the edge part 104a can be stored in the storage tank part 98a. When the water level in the reservoir tank portion 98a reaches the end 104a, water in the reservoir tank portion 98a flows out of the end 104a. The overflowed water is configured to drain through the daily passage 104.

The first repairing material 99 and the second repairing material 100 are provided in the upper part of the case 98. The 1st water holding material 99 is formed with the porous material (for example, urethane sponge) which has water retention property. The first water retaining material 99 is accommodated above the water storage tank 98a inside the case 98. The second water retaining material 100 is formed by mixing a conductive material (for example, graphite) with a porous material (for example, urethane sponge) having water retention properties. The second repair member 100 is accommodated above the first repair member 99 in the case 98. In addition, the graphite mixed with the second repairing material 100 as a conductive material is for securing the conductivity or rigidity of the second repairing material 100.

The absorbent member 101 is formed of a porous material (for example, a felt material made of fibrous polyester) having water absorbency, water retention, and water intake properties, and has upper and lower ends thereof having a sharp pin shape. The proximal end of the absorbent member 101 (lower end in FIG. 11) extends in the reservoir tank portion 98a provided to cover the absorber member 101 from below, and is stored in the reservoir tank portion 98a. It is made to be in contact with water. On the other hand, the front end part (the upper end part in FIG. 11) of the absorbing member 101 is inserted so that it may fit in the 1st water holding material 99 from below. Thereby, the front end side part of the absorbing member 101 is covered with the 1st water holding material 99, and is in contact with the said 1st water holding material 99. As shown in FIG.

The discharge electrode 102 is formed of a porous material (e.g., a felt material made of fibrous polyester) having water absorption, water retention, and water intake properties, and each of the discharge electrodes 102 has a pointed pin shape having a pointed tip (end of the upper end in FIG. 11). It is coming true. The base end (lower end part in FIG. 11) of these some discharge electrode 102 is inserted in the 1st water holding material 99 so that it may be inserted from above. As a result, the lower end portions of the plurality of discharge electrodes 102 are covered with the first repairing material 99, respectively.

The plurality of discharge electrodes 102 are provided so as to penetrate through the second repair member 100 and the upper surface of the case 98 in the case 98. Therefore, these discharge electrodes 102 are mainly fixed by the upper surface part of the case 98, and are auxiliary-fixed by the 2nd water holding material 100 which is hard. These discharge electrodes 102 are arranged concentrically around the absorbing member 101.

The water accumulated in the reservoir tank portion 98a is absorbed (sucked up) through the absorbing member 101 extending in the reservoir tank portion 98a and supplied to the first water holding member 99. Then, the water supplied to the first water retaining material 99 penetrates into the first water retaining material 99, and water is supplied to the discharge electrode 102. In addition, the discharge electrode 102 is arranged in a concentric shape with the absorbing member 101 as the center. Therefore, the water which penetrates into the 1st water holding material 99 from the absorbing member 101 is made to be supplied equally to the surrounding discharge electrode 102. FIG. In addition, a part of the water contained in the first repairing material 99 penetrates into the second repairing material 100. Therefore, water is also supplied to the discharge electrode 102 from the second repairing material 100.

The conductive rod 103 is fixed to the second repairing member 100 having a rigid end portion (the upper end in FIG. 11) penetrating the first repairing member 99 in the case 98. The conductive rod 103 is covered with a covering member 103a made of an insulating material, covering the entirety of the circumferential side that leaves its base end (lower end in FIG. 11) outside the case 98. The conductive rod 103 has its base end (lower end) connected to a negative electrode (for example, -6 kV) of the high voltage power supply 105 of a power supply circuit (not shown). As a result, a negative high voltage from the high voltage power supply 105 is applied to the discharge electrode 102 through the conductive rod 103, the first water retaining material 99 containing water, and the second water retaining material 100. ) Is negatively charged. That is, the conductive rod 103 is configured to function as a high voltage applying means for applying the negative high voltage from the high voltage power supply 105 to the discharge electrode 102 to charge the discharge electrode 102 negatively.

According to such a structure, the negative high voltage from the high voltage power supply 105 is applied to the discharge electrode 102 supplied with water. At this time, electric charge is concentrated at the tip of the discharge electrode 102, and energy exceeding the surface tension is applied to water included in the tip. As a result, water at the distal end of the discharge electrode 102 splits (Rayy breaks) and is discharged in a mist form from the distal end of the discharge electrode 102. That is, the electrostatic atomization phenomenon occurs. Here, the water particles released in the mist shape are negatively charged and contain hydroxy radicals generated by the energy. Therefore, hydroxy radicals having a strong oxidation action are released from the discharge electrode 102 together with the mist, and disinfection and deodorization can be performed by the action of the hydroxy radicals.

In addition, the mist generator 83 does not include the other electrode corresponding to the negatively charged discharge electrode 102. In this case, in the target device (for example, the laundry machine 1) in which the mist generator 83 is installed, the discharge electrode (eg, the housing 2) that is grounded through a ground wire or the like is negatively charged ( And function as the other electrode corresponding to 102.

That is, the mist generator 83 has a structure in which the other electrode corresponding to the discharge electrode 102 negatively charged by the negative high voltage from the high voltage power supply 105 is not provided in the vicinity of the discharge electrode 102. It is. Therefore, the discharge itself from the discharge electrode 102 proceeds very gently. Therefore, there is no generation of colon or discharge, and generation of harmful gases (nitrogen oxide, nitrous acid, nitric acid, etc. generated by ozone or ozone oxidizing nitrogen in the air) is suppressed.

In the mist generating apparatus which produces | generates a hydroxy radical, supply of water to the discharge electrode of a mist generator and application of a high voltage to the discharge electrode are essential. In addition, when such a mist generating apparatus is installed in a laundry machine, it is conceivable to use a water supply source (faucet, etc.) in the tank as a water source. However, such a water supply source or a water supply path for supplying water from the water supply source to the mist generator of the mist generating device is usually provided on the upper side of the laundry machine, and thus can be contacted by the user. It is often a part. In addition, such a portion is a portion that is connected to the mist generating apparatus through water, and thus also a portion to which a high voltage can be applied when an electric leakage or the like from the mist generating apparatus is generated. Therefore, in the case where the laundry machine is provided with a mist generating device in which application of a high voltage to the discharge electrode is indispensable, a configuration is required to prevent electric leakage, electric shock and the like and improve safety.

According to the mist generating apparatus 81 of this embodiment, it interposes between the 1st water holding material 99 which supplies repaired water to the discharge electrode 102, and the supply valve 84 which supplies water to the said 1st water holding material 99. The spaces 96 and 97 described above are in a state of being electrically insulated between the first maintenance material 99 and the water supply valve 84. As a result, it is possible to prevent the high voltage from the conductive rod 103 from being applied to the water supply valve 84 side of the water supply path 82, which the user can contact, and to safely discharge the mist from the discharge electrode 102. It can be carried out.

As described above, the mist generating device 81 can prevent the application of the high voltage to the part to which the user can contact since the application of the high voltage to the discharge electrode 102 is indispensable. Release can be carried out safely. Therefore, the mist generating apparatus 81 is realized by the structure which prevents a short circuit, an electric shock, etc., and improves safety, and can be provided in a laundry machine etc. without impairing safety.

In addition, the mist generating apparatus 81 differs in the water supply from the water supply valve 84 into the U-shaped trap pipe 85, and the water supply timing from the U-shaped trap pipe 85 to the mist generator 83. By this, the state where the water supply valve 84 and the mist generator 83 are connected through the water can be avoided, and the application of the high voltage to the water supply valve 84 side that the user can contact can be further prevented.

(8th Embodiment)

Next, an eighth embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG. 12 where the same reference numerals are assigned to the same parts as the seventh embodiment. This embodiment is embodiment which concerns on a mist generating apparatus (corresponding to an electrostatic misting apparatus), and the structure of a water supply path differs from 7th Embodiment mentioned above. The mist generating apparatus 111 is comprised with the mist generator 83 and the water supply path 112 which replaces the water supply path 82 mentioned above.

The water supply path 112 extends from the water supply valve 84 to the first repair material 99 (see FIG. 11) in the mist generator 83. The water supply path 112 is provided with the dripping tank 113 in part.

The dripping tank 113 has a rectangular hollow shape as a whole, and has a water supply port 113a at the top and a drain port 113b at the bottom. Moreover, the dripping tank 113 is equipped with the water port 113c in the side part.

The water supply pipe 114 which bends downwards from the water supply valve 84 and extends is inserted in the water supply port 113a. The tip portion (lower end portion in FIG. 12) of the water supply pipe 114 extends in the dropping tank 113. In this case, the distal end of the water supply pipe 114 extends to a position higher than the water outlet 113c. A drain pipe 115 is communicated with the drain port 113b. A drain valve 116 is provided in the middle of the drain pipe 115. The lower end part of the drain conduit 115 opposes the water supply hole 94a of the water supply part 94 extended from the mist generator 83, and is separated from the said tool water 94a. Thereby, the space part 117 is formed between the lower end part of the drain conduit path 115, and the water supply tool 94a.

According to such a structure, the water supplied from the water supply valve 84 to the dripping tank 113 through the water supply line 114 in the state in which the drain valve 116 is closed is gradually stored in the dripping tank 113. When the water level of the water supplied into the dropping tank 113 exceeds the height of the water collecting port 113c, the water overflowed from the water collecting port 113c is drained to the outside of the dropping tank 113. Thereby, the water level in the dripping tank 113 is comprised so that it may not exceed the height of the water outlet 113c.

Here, the lower end of the water supply pipe 114 is located at a height higher than the height of the water outlet 113c, that is, the highest possible water level in the dripping tank 113. Therefore, the space part 118 is formed in the upper part in the dripping tank 113. FIG. Thus, the space part 118 is formed in the dropping tank 113, and the water supply valve 84 and the water in the dropping tank 113 are isolate | separated. In this way, the water supply path 112 is formed such that two spaces 117 and 118 are formed.

The drain valve 116 drips the water stored in the dripping tank 113 into the water supply part 94 via the drain conduit 115 by adjusting the opening degree appropriately. That is, the drain valve 116 is configured to function as a tightening valve for dropping, not continuously flowing water in the dropping tank 113.

According to the mist generating apparatus 111 of this embodiment, the space part interposed between the 1st water holding material 99 in the mist generator 83, and the water supply valve 84 which supplies water to the said 1st water holding material 99. FIG. By 117 and 118, the 1st water holding material 99 and the water supply valve 84 are electrically insulated. As a result, the high voltage from the conductive rod 103 can be prevented from being applied to the water supply valve 84 side where the user can contact, and the mist from the discharge electrode 102 can be safely discharged.

In this way, since the application of the high voltage to the discharge electrode 102 becomes indispensable, the mist generating device 111 can prevent the application of the high voltage to the part to which the user can come into contact. Release can be carried out safely. Therefore, the mist generating apparatus 111 is implemented with the structure which prevents a short circuit, an electric shock, etc., and improves safety, and can be provided in a laundry machine etc. without impairing safety.

In addition, the mist generating apparatus 111 was set as the structure which drips and supplies the water in the dripping tank 113 in the water supply part 94. FIG. Therefore, unlike the structure which flows and supplies the water in the dripping tank 113 continuously, intermittent water supply can be performed. Thereby, the state where the water supply valve 84 and the mist generator 83 are connected through water can be avoided, and application of the high voltage to the water supply valve 84 side which a user can contact can further be prevented.

In addition, when the quantity of water in the dripping tank 113 increases, hydraulic pressure becomes large. Therefore, even if the opening degree of the drain valve 116 is adjusted, it is difficult to drop the water in the dripping tank 113 into the water supply part 94. In the present embodiment, the mist generating device 111 is provided with a water outlet 113c on the side of the dropping tank 113. Therefore, the quantity of water in the dripping tank 113 is limited to predetermined amount (the quantity of water level becomes the height of the water outlet 113c). Thereby, the water pressure in the dripping tank 113 can be prevented from becoming too large, and the water in the dripping tank 113 can be dripped appropriately in the water supply part 94. FIG. In addition, by appropriately changing the position of the water discharge port 113c in the dropping tank 113 in the up and down direction, the water pressure in the dropping tank 113, and further, the dropping amount and dropping interval of the water from the dropping tank 113 are adjusted. Can be.

In addition, the mist generating apparatus 111 may not be a structure which fits the front-end | tip part of the water supply line 114 into the dropping tank 113. FIG. Instead, the mist generating device 111 faces the tip end portion of the water supply pipe 114 from the top of the dropping tank 113 from above and separates the water supply port 113a from the water supply port 113a. It is good also as a structure which forms a space part between the valve | bulb 84 and the dripping tank 113.

(Ninth embodiment)

Hereinafter, a ninth embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. 13 to 16. This embodiment is an embodiment related to a laundry machine. As shown in FIG. 13, in this embodiment, the laundry machine 1 is comprised from the structure which does not provide the water supply port 5 for bath water. In addition, the operation panel 8 is provided with a liquid crystal display section 8a for displaying various types of information (detergent amount, operation time, etc.). In addition, the operation panel 8 is provided with a switch for selecting various driving courses including a sterilization course described later, various switches for starting and stopping operation, and the like. Moreover, the control apparatus 10 performs a function as a control means which performs the mist generation process mentioned later, and a function as a setting means which sets the time which supplies water to the U-shaped trap pipe 85.

In addition, the laundry machine 1 having such a configuration is provided with the same mist generating device 81 as that shown in the seventh embodiment shown in FIG. 8 described above. Next, the structure of the mist generating apparatus 81 in the said laundry machine 1 is demonstrated, referring FIG. 14 and FIG.

The U-shaped trap pipe 85 constituting the water supply path 82 of the mist generating device 81 has a position slightly higher than the motor 30 on the rear surface of the water tank 12 (slightly at the side of the motor 30 in FIG. 15). Upward position]. A water supply pipe 121 (see also FIG. 14) extending from the water supply valve 26 is connected to the water supply port 85b of the U-shaped trap pipe 85. That is, the water supply valve 26 corresponds to the water supply valve 84 in FIG. The water supply pipe 121 corresponds to the water supply pipe 86 in FIG. 8. A drain pipe 122 is bent to the drain port 85c of the U-shaped trap pipe 85 so as to communicate with each other. The drain pipe 122 is hardly curved and extends to the mist generator 83 side of the mist generator 81 and is in communication with the water supply portion 94 of the mist generator 83. That is, the drain conduit 122 corresponds to the drain conduit 87 in FIG. 8. In this case, the distal end of the drain pipe 122 is in close contact with the raceway 94a (see FIG. 8) of the raceway 94. Therefore, the space part open | released to air | atmosphere is not formed between the front-end | tip part of the drainage conduit 122 and the water supply hole 94a.

The U-shaped trap pipe 85 is in a state of communicating with the water tank 12 through the water outlet 85d. That is, the water tank 12 corresponds to the buffer tank 89 in FIG. And the drain hose 28 (refer FIG. 14) connected to the bottom part of the said water tank 12 is corresponded to the drain path 90 in FIG. The drain valve 29 (refer FIG. 14) provided in the middle of the said drain hose 28 is corresponded to the drain valve 92 in FIG. In addition, the circulation blower 38 installed in the middle of the circulation air passage 43 communicated with the water tank 12 corresponds to the pressurization apparatus 93 in FIG.

On the other hand, the mist generator 83 of the mist generating apparatus 81 is upstream from the hot air inlet 23 in the quick air duct 42 which comprises the intermediate part of the circulation air passage 43, and is connected with the connection hose 41 (refer FIG. 14). ) Is immediately provided beyond the downstream side (in FIG. 15, the lower end portion of the portion in which the air duct 42 extends upward while bypassing the motor 30). And the discharge electrode 102 of the mist generator 83 is provided so that each front-end part may protrude inside the circulation air passage 43. As shown in FIG.

As shown in FIG. 14, a part of the air (hot air) flowing in the circulation air passage 43 is supplied to the mist generator 83 by the partition plate 43a having the shade 43b, and the discharge electrode 102 is provided. And after joining the circulation passage 43 after passing through the peripheral portion thereof (see arrows shown by broken lines in FIG. 14).

The drain passage 104 of the mist generator 83 is connected to a portion downstream of the drain valve 29 in the drain hose 28. Therefore, the water which flowed into the drainage path 104 from the inside of the reservoir tank part 98a of the mist generator 83 passes through the said drainage path 104, and is drained to the drain hose 28. FIG.

In addition, although not shown, the conductive rod 103 of the mist generator 83 is connected to a cathode (for example, -6 kV) of a high voltage power supply of the power supply circuit of the laundry machine 1. As a result, a negative high voltage from the high voltage power source is applied to the discharge electrode 102 through the conductive rod 103, the first water retention material 99 including water, and the second water retention material 100, and the discharge electrode 102 is negative. It is made to fight.

Also, in this case, the housing 2 (members provided at a position not facing the discharge electrode 102 and far from the discharge electrode 102) grounded through a ground wire (not shown) or the like is a negatively charged discharge electrode ( It functions as the other electrode corresponding to 102.

In the laundry machine 1 configured as described above, the control device 10 is a sterilization course (this is a course corresponding to a mist generating process, and the mist generating device 81 is operated to generate mist to circulate the mist in the circulation air passage 43). It is a course which supplies in the water tank 12 with the air which flows inside. Here, the control content by the control apparatus 10 at the time of performing the said disinfection process is demonstrated, referring FIG. Fig. 16 is a time chart showing the control contents. In addition, in the part shown using hatching in FIG. 16, the control apparatus 10 drives each component (opening the water supply valve 26, driving the circulation blower 38, and energizing the conductive rod 103). To be done.

When the sterilization course is selected through the operation panel 8, at the beginning of the sterilization course, the control device 10 opens the water supply valve 26 to form a U-shaped trap through the water supply line 121 and the water supply port 85b. Water is supplied into the pipe 85 (section indicated by symbol A in FIG. 16). The supplied water is slowly stored in the U trap pipe 85. In this case, the control apparatus 10 sets in advance the time which supplies the quantity of water which the water starts to flow out from the water supply port 85d in the U-shaped trap pipe 85 (setting means). When the set time has elapsed, the control device 10 closes the water supply valve 26 and stops the water supply into the U-shaped trap pipe 85. As a result, the control apparatus 10 does not drain the water in the U trap pipe 85 from the drain port 85c, and the predetermined amount (in this case, the water level is the height of the water drain port 85d) in the U trap pipe 85. Water of the amount of water], and a space 97 (see Fig. 15) is formed on the upstream side of the U-shaped trap pipe 85.

Next, the control device 10 is a U-shaped water remaining in the water supply pipe 121 for a predetermined time in a state where the water supply valve 26 is closed (the water supply into the U-shaped trap pipe 85 is stopped). It is determined whether or not the time of the degree flowing into the trap pipe 85 has elapsed (the section indicated by the code B in FIG. 16).

Then, after a predetermined time has elapsed, the control device 10 drives the circulation blower 38 at high speed rotation (for example, 3000 rpm) and raises the pressure (inner pressure) in the water tank 12 (indicated by C in Fig. 16). Indicating interval). At this time, the control device 10 is configured to be in a state in which the drain valve 29 is closed (the state in which the water tank 12 is almost sealed leaving the circulation air passage 43). Thereby, the pressure (inner pressure) in the water tank 12 is made to raise efficiently.

As the internal pressure of the water tank 12 rises, the internal pressure of the space part 97 in the U-shaped trap pipe 85 which is in communication with the inside of the water tank 12 through the water discharge port 85d increases. As a result, the water stored in the U trap pipe 85 is extruded from the upstream side to the downstream side of the U trap pipe 85 and drained from the drain port 85c, and is discharged through the drain pipe line 87. Water is supplied to the frequency unit 94.

When the water supply to the mist generator 83 is completed, the control device 10 causes the water stored in the water storage tank portion 98a in a predetermined time (FIG. 11 to discharge through the absorbing member 101, the first water holding member 99, and the like. It is determined whether or not the time of the degree supplied to 102 has elapsed (the section indicated by symbol D in FIG. 16). Then, when the predetermined time has elapsed, the control device 10 energizes the conductive rod 103 from the high voltage power supply to operate the mist generating device 81 (section indicated by symbol E in FIG. 16). As a result, a negative high voltage from the high voltage power source is applied to the discharge electrode 102 through the conductive rod 103, the first repairing material 99, and the second repairing material 100, and the discharge electrode 102 is negatively charged. As a result, mist containing hydroxy radicals having a strong oxidation action is released from the tip of the discharge electrode 102.

At this time, the control apparatus 10 drives the circulation blower 38 at low speed rotation (for example, 1500 rpm lower than the rotational speed at the time of water supply), and controls the air in the water tank 12 for the circulation air passage 43. Circulate through. Thereby, the mist containing the hydroxy radical discharge | released from the mist generating apparatus 81 is supplied in the water tank 12 with the air (hot air) which flows in the circulation air passage 43. As shown in FIG. And the hydroxy radicals supplied in this way can disinfect and deodorize the laundry (clothing etc.) in the water tank 12. FIG. In this case, the control apparatus 10 drives the circulation blower 38 at a lower rotational speed than when water is supplied to the mist generator 83 (see the section indicated by the reference C). Therefore, the amount of air flowing in the circulation air passage 43 is weak, and mist can be supplied into the water tank 12, preventing the discharge electrode 102 from drying.

Further, in the sterilization course, the user can select two modes of the first mode and the second mode through a mode selection button (not shown) provided on the operation panel 8. When the first mode is selected, the control device 10 moves the drum 13 to a predetermined low speed with supply of mist into the water tank 12 (drive of the circulating blower 38 and energization of the conductive rod 103). It is configured to rotate forward and backward with rotation (for example 50 rpm). The said 1st mode is suitable for the case of carrying out the sterilization of the washing object (rotable thing, coat, slacks, muffler, etc.) which may be stirred. On the other hand, when the second mode is selected, the control device 10 is configured not to rotate the drum 13 at the time of supplying the mist into the water tank 12. The second mode is suitable for carrying out the sterilization of the washing object (not rotating, for example, stuffed toy, bag, leather goods, etc.), which is not preferably stirred.

As described above, according to the present embodiment, in the bactericidal course, a mist including hydroxy radicals having a strong oxidation action is released into the circulation air passage 43 and together with the air (hot air) flowing through the circulation air passage 43. It is supplied in (12). This makes it possible to disinfect and deodorize the laundry (clothing, etc.) in the water tank 12.

Then, the space portion 97 formed in the U-shaped trap pipe 85 can maintain the electrical insulation state between the water supply valve 26 and the first water-retaining material 99 in the mist generator 83. Application of a high voltage to the water supply valve 84 side can be prevented.

In this case, the laundry machine 1 did not provide the other electrode corresponding to the discharge electrode 102 negatively charged by the negative high voltage from the high voltage power supply in the vicinity of the discharge electrode 102. Therefore, the discharge itself from the discharge electrode 102 becomes very gentle. Therefore, there is no generation of colon or discharge, and generation of harmful gases (nitrogen oxide, nitrous acid, nitric acid, etc. generated by ozone or ozone oxidizing nitrogen in the air) is suppressed.

In addition, if the mist generator 83 is an intermediate part of the circulation air passage 43, it can be provided in arbitrary parts. However, as shown in this embodiment, it is preferable to provide in the part comprised by the quick wind duct 42 among the circulation air paths 43. The hot air duct 42 constitutes a portion downstream from the evaporator 46 and the condenser 47 in the circulation air passage 43. Therefore, it is because the hydroxy radical which generate | occur | produced in this part becomes hard to be influenced by the cooling action of the evaporator 46 and the heating action of the condenser 47.

(10th embodiment)

Next, a tenth embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG. In addition, description is abbreviate | omitted about the same part as 9th Embodiment shown in FIG. 15 mentioned above, and only another part is demonstrated. This embodiment is an embodiment in which the water trap pipe 131 is further provided on the rear surface of the water tank 12 in the configuration shown in the ninth embodiment.

The daily trap pipe 131 is provided at a position lower than the U-shaped trap pipe 85 on the rear surface of the water tank 12. The daily trap pipe 131 has a shape similar to each other in which the U-shaped trap pipe 85 is enlarged in the vertical direction, forms a hollow shape that is long in the vertical direction as a whole, and the partition portion 131a having the lower end opened therein. ) Thereby, the channel which becomes substantially U-shaped in cross section is formed in the said water trap pipe 131, and it is comprised by the structure which can be stored in the said channel part. The water trap pipe 131 is provided with a water supply port 131b in an upstream portion (upper portion on the right side of the water trap pipe 131 in FIG. 17), and in a downstream portion (left side of the water trap pipe 131 in FIG. 17). The drainage port 131c is provided in the upper part rather than the vertical part in the up-down direction.

A water supply pipe 132 extending from the water supply valve 26 is connected to the water supply port 131b. The drainage pipe 133 which is bent downward and extends is connected to the drain port 131c. Although not shown in the figure, the drain pipe 133 is connected to the downstream portion of the drain hose 28 rather than the drain valve 29.

The upstream portion of the water trap pipe 131 is connected to the water tank 12 via a water flow outlet 12a provided on the rear surface of the water tank 12. When the quantity of water in the water tank 12 exceeds the predetermined amount (the water level becomes the height of the number of the water outlets 12a), the water outlet 12a is outside the water tank 12 (in this case, the water trap pipe). [131] to drain. As a result, for example, a failure or the like of the water supply valve 26 occurs, and even if the water level in the water tank 12 has abnormally increased beyond the set water level, water exceeding a predetermined amount is drained from the daily water outlet 12a. have.

Moreover, 85 d of water discharge ports of the U-shaped trap pipe 85 mentioned above are provided in the position higher than the water discharge port 12a of the water tank 12. As shown in FIG. Thereby, even if the water level in the water tank 12 becomes abnormally high, the water in the water tank 12 is drained from the water outlet 12a before the water level reaches the water drain port 85d of the U trap pipe 85. Therefore, the water from the water tank 12 does not flow into the U-shaped trap pipe 85.

In the present embodiment, a dedicated water supply valve 134 for supplying water into the U-shaped trap pipe 85 is provided separately from the water supply valve 26. A water supply pipe 135 extending from the dedicated water supply valve 134 is connected to the water supply port 85b of the U-shaped trap pipe 85. Thereby, the water supply valve 26 can control the water supply valve 26 independently, and can supply water as needed in the U-shaped trap pipe 85. Therefore, the water supplied into the U-shaped trap pipe 85 is not unnecessarily discharged.

Next, the operation of the present embodiment will be described.

In the washing process or the rinsing process in various driving courses, the control device 10 opens the water supply valve 26 to supply water to the water tank 12 through the water supply case 25 or the like. At the same time, the control device 10 supplies water from the water supply port 131b to the water trap pipe 131 through the water supply pipe 132.

Therefore, the water supply into the water trap pipe 131 continues while the water supply into the water tank 12 is performed. For this reason, the water supplied in the water trap pipe 131 continues to flow beyond the drain port 131c without remaining in the water trap pipe 131, and runs through the water pipe 133 and the drain hose 28. It flows out of the drier machine 1. When the water level in the water tank 12 reaches the set water level, the control device 10 closes the water supply valve 26 and stops the water supply into the water tank 12 and thus the water supply into the water trap pipe 131. Thereby, the water of the predetermined | prescribed amount (quantity whose water level becomes the height of the drain opening 131c) remains in the daily trap pipe 131, and it is made to be stored.

In the drying process, the control device 10 operates the circulation blower 38, the evaporator 46, and the condenser 47 while the drain valve 29 is closed to supply hot air into the water tank 12, and the water tank 12. ) The laundry inside (in the drum 13) is dried.

In the drying step, the daily water trap pipe 131 communicated with the water tank 12 through the daily water outlet 12a is in a state where its air permeability is blocked by water stored therein. Therefore, even if a part of the warm air supplied into the water tank 12 flows into the daily trap pipe 131 from the daily water outlet 12a, the hot air escapes from the drain port 131c and leaks out of the laundry machine 1. There is no work. In other words, the inside of the water tank 12 is in a substantially closed state, leaving the circulation air passage 43.

And the warm air is supplied into the water tank 12 maintained in such a sealed state, and the pressure (inner pressure) in the said water tank 12 rises. In this case, since the U trap pipe 85 is smaller than the one trap pipe 131, the amount of water stored in the U trap pipe 85 is less than the amount of water stored in the daily trap pipe 131. Therefore, even if the internal pressure in the daily water trap pipe 131 does not rise by the warm air flowing in from the daily water outlet 12a, the space portion in the U-shaped trap pipe 85 due to the warm air flowing from the daily water port 85d ( 97) the internal pressure is raised. The water stored in the U trap pipe 85 is extruded from the upstream side to the downstream side of the U trap pipe 85 and drained from the drain port 85c as the internal pressure of the space 97 rises. . Then, the water drained from the drain port 85c is supplied to the water supply part 94 of the mist generator 83 through the drain pipe duct 122. That is, the air volume in the drying step cannot extrude and discharge the water in the daily trap pipe 131, but the air volume that can extrude and discharge the water in the U-shaped trap pipe 85 (for example, a circulating blower). Air volume when the rotational speed of (38) is set at 3000 rpm).

As described above, according to the present embodiment, in the configuration in which the water outlet 12a is provided on the rear surface of the water tank 12, the position of the water outlet 85d of the U-shaped trap pipe 85 is higher than the water outlet 12a. Installed on. As a result, the water from the water tank 12 can be prevented from flowing into the U-shaped trap pipe 85 and filling the U-shaped trap pipe 85 with water. Therefore, the space 97 is formed in the U-shaped trap pipe 85, that is, the state electrically insulated between the water supply valves 26 and 134 and the first water-retaining material 99 in the mist generator 83 is appropriate. It is possible to further maintain the application of the high voltage to the water supply valves 26 and 134, which can be held and touched by the user.

(Eleventh embodiment)

Next, an eleventh embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG. In addition, description is abbreviate | omitted about the same part as 10th Embodiment mentioned above, and only another part is demonstrated. This embodiment is a modified embodiment in the configuration in which the water trap pipe 131 is provided on the rear surface of the water tank 12.

The coupling tool 85e is provided in the position lower than the water outlet port 85d in the side part of the U-shaped trap pipe 85. One end of the connecting pipe 136 is connected to the connecting tool 85e. In this embodiment, the water supply line 121 extended from the water supply valve 26 is connected to the water supply port 85b of the U-shaped trap pipe 85.

On the other hand, the connector 131d is provided in the upper part of the water trap pipe 131. The other end of the connection pipe 136 which connected one end to the connection tool 85e of the U-shaped trap pipe 85 is connected to this connector 131d.

According to such a configuration, when the water level of the water supplied in the U-shaped trap pipe 85 exceeds the height of the connector (85e), the water overflowed from the connector (85e) through the connecting pipe 136 through the water trap pipe (131) Out). Thereby, the electrical insulation state between the 1st water holding material 99 and the water supply valve 26 in the mist generator 83 can be maintained, avoiding that the U-shaped trap pipe 85 is filled with water. In addition, the water supplied excessively in the U-shaped trap pipe 85 can be used as water for storing in the water trap pipe 131.

Moreover, the water from the single water supply valve 26 can be supplied to both the U-shaped trap pipe 85 and the daily trap pipe 131, and it can be set as a simple water supply structure.

(12th Embodiment)

Next, a twelfth embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG. In addition, description is abbreviate | omitted about the same part as 8th Embodiment shown in FIG. 12 mentioned above, and only another part is demonstrated. This embodiment is embodiment which comprised the mist generating apparatus using the dripping tank 113 in the back surface of the water tank 12. As shown in FIG.

The dripping tank 113 is arrange | positioned in the position slightly higher than the motor 30 in the back surface of the water tank 12 (slightly upward position in the side part of the motor 30 in FIG. 19). A water supply pipe 121 extending from the water supply valve 26 is connected to the water supply port 113a of the dropping tank 113. That is, the water supply valve 26 corresponds to the water supply valve 84 in FIG. The water supply pipe 121 corresponds to the water supply pipe 114 in FIG. 12. Also in this case, the tip end of the water supply line 121 extends to a position higher than the water outlet 113c provided on the side of the dripping tank 113.

A drain pipe 137 is connected to the drain port 113b of the dropping tank 113. A drain valve 138 is provided in the middle of the drain pipe 137. That is, the drain conduit 137 corresponds to the drain conduit 115 in FIG. The drain valve 138 corresponds to the drain valve 116 in FIG. 12. The drain pipe 137 extends to the mist generator 83 side with little bending, and is in communication with the water supply section 94 of the mist generator 83. In this case, the distal end of the drain pipe 137 is closely connected to the raceway 94a (see FIG. 12) of the raceway 94. Therefore, the space part open | released to air | atmosphere is not formed between the line edge part of the drain conduit 137, and the waterway 94a.

The drainage pipe 139 which is bent downward and extends is connected to the water outlet 113c of the dripping tank 113 in communication. Although not shown, the drain pipe 139 is connected to the downstream portion of the drain hose 28 than the drain valve 29.

According to such a structure, the quantity of water in which the water level becomes the height of the water outlet 113c is stored in the dripping tank 113, and the space part 118 is formed in the dripping tank 113. As shown in FIG. In this way, the space portion 118 formed in the dropping tank 113 can maintain the electrical insulation state between the first repair member 99 and the water supply valve 26 in the mist generator 83. Application of a high voltage to the water supply valve 26 side which can be contacted can be prevented.

In addition, by adjusting the opening degree of the drain valve 138 appropriately, the water stored in the dripping tank 113 can be dripped in the water supply part 94 via the drain pipe 137, and it is sent to the mist generator 83. Intermittent water supply can be performed. Thereby, the state where the water supply valve 26 and the mist generator 83 are connected through water can be avoided, and application of the high voltage to the water supply valve 26 side which a user can contact can further be prevented.

In addition to the dripping tank 113, the daily trap pipe 131 shown in the tenth or eleventh embodiment described above may be provided.

(Other Embodiments)

In addition, this invention is not limited only to each embodiment mentioned above. It can be modified or expanded as follows:

As the porous material for forming the discharge electrode 52, the discharge electrode 71, and the discharge electrode 102, a porous ceramic material, a porous metal material, or the like may be used.

In the electrostatic atomizing device 50, at least one discharge electrode 52, 71 may be formed to extend to the water storage tank part 51a. However, all of the discharge electrodes 52, 71 may be formed long, or any of a plurality may be formed long.

The base end of the discharge electrode 52a may be configured to not extend to the water storage tank 51a, and may be configured to be absorbed by the water retaining material 53 instead. In this case, the water holding material 53 is configured to be supplied with water. Alternatively, a part of the water retaining material 53 is extended until it is directly immersed in the water in the water storage tank 51a.

In the mist generating apparatuses 81 and 111, the discharge electrode 102 is not limited to having a sharp tip, and may be, for example, rounded to have a smooth hemispherical shape. The base end portion of the discharge electrode 120 may be extended in the water storage tank portion 98a to perform a function as a water supply means.

The water supply path 56 or the water supply pipe 121 is connected to the bottom of the ventilation duct 34, and the dehumidifying water generated from the evaporator 46 is in the water storage tank 55a or in the water storage tank 98a. You may make it water. In addition, the water supply valve 26 is configured to be switchable so that the water supply port 5 for the bath water is opened to the water supply path 56, and a part of the bath water from the water supply port 5 for the bath water is stored in the reservoir tank 51a. You may make it water.

The water path 57 or the water path 104 is connected to the bottom of the water tank 12, for example, to drain the water from the water storage tank part 55a or the water storage tank part 98a into the water tank 12. You may be able to. According to such a structure, the water overflowed from the water storage tank part 55a or the water storage tank part 98a can be used as washing water without waste.

The amount of water that can be stored in the water storage tank 51a or the water storage tank 98a is appropriately changed by changing the size, shape, etc. of the water storage tank 51a, or the water storage tank 98a. can do.

The other electrode corresponding to the discharge electrode 52, the discharge electrode 71, and the discharge electrode 102 that is negatively charged by the high voltage applying means, does not face the discharge electrode 52, the discharge electrode 71, and the discharge electrode 102, and The ground body may be provided at a position away from the discharge electrode 52, the discharge electrode 71, and the discharge electrode 102.

In the mist generating apparatuses 81 and 111, the absorbing member 101 does not have its front end side covered with the first repairing material 99, but the second repairing material 100 and the case 98 in the same manner as the discharge electrode 102. You may pass through the upper surface of (). In this case, the absorbing member functions as a water supply means for supplying the water in the reservoir tank portion 98a to the first water retaining material 99, and also as a discharge electrode for discharging mist.

By sharpening the proximal end of the absorbent member 101 (part in contact with the water in the reservoir tank 98a), foreign matter (dust, etc.) contained in the water in the reservoir tank 98a is less likely to enter the absorbent member 101. The fall of the absorption performance of the said absorption member 101 can be prevented. However, the shape of the base end portion of the absorbing member 101 is not limited thereto, and may be, for example, a flat shape.

In addition, the absorbing member 101 is not limited to extending in the up-down direction as shown in FIG. For example, in the case where the water storage tank portion 98a is provided on the side of the case 98, the absorbing member is transversely so that the water absorption member contacts the water in the first water holding member 99 and the water storage tank portion 98a. You may install it.

In addition, it is good also as a structure which does not provide the absorbing member 101, and may be comprised so that it may be absorbed by the 1st water retaining material 99 or the 2nd water retaining material 100 instead. In this case, the water is supplied to the first water holding material 99 or the second water holding material 100. Alternatively, a part of the first water retaining material 99 or the second water retaining material 100 is extended until the water is directly immersed in the water in the water storage tank part 98a.

The platinum nano colloid may be supported on the discharge electrode 102.

You may make it install the disinfectant in the storage tank part 98a.

For example, the first water retaining material 99 may be formed of fibrous ion exchange resin, or the ion exchange resin may be provided in the storage tank portion 98a. In this case, the discharge electrode 102 may be mixed with a conductive material (for example, carbon fiber).

For example, when it is desired to sterilize or deodorize laundry which cannot be washed by being immersed in water, the electrostatic atomization device 50 or the mist generating devices 81 and 111 are not supplied with water in the water tank 12. A driving course for supplying mist may be provided. Thereby, the laundry which is weak in water can be disinfected and deodorized without immersing in water.

In addition, when performing a washing process using bath water, you may make it control to increase the generation amount of the mist from the electrostatic atomization apparatus 50 or the mist generating apparatuses 81 and 111 in a drying process. In addition, control to increase the content of hydroxy radicals may be performed. Moreover, you may make it control to lengthen the generation time of mist. Thereby, even if the miscellaneous fungi contained in the bath water remained in the laundry after the end of washing, such miscellaneous fungi can be removed.

The present invention can be applied not only to the laundry machine 1 having the heat pump 49 in the circulation air passage 43, but also to a heater wind machine provided with a heater and a water-cooled heat exchanger in the circulation air passage. In this case, the electrostatic atomization device 50 or the mist generators 83 of the mist generators 81 and 111 are preferably installed on the downstream side (water tank side) than the heat exchanger in the circulation air passage. Moreover, this invention is applicable also to the dryer which is not equipped with the washing function.

1 is a longitudinal sectional side view schematically showing the configuration of an electrostatic atomizing device, showing a first embodiment of the present invention;

2 is an external perspective view of the laundry machine,

3 is a longitudinal side view schematically showing the internal configuration of the laundry machine,

4 is a rear view of the tank,

5 is a view corresponding to FIG. 1 showing a fifth embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 6 is a longitudinal sectional side view showing an enlarged view of a discharge electrode and a peripheral portion thereof, showing a sixth embodiment of the present invention; FIG.

7 is a plan view showing a discharge electrode and a peripheral portion thereof;

FIG. 8 shows a seventh embodiment of the present invention and schematically shows a configuration of a mist generating device. FIG.

9 is an enlarged longitudinal sectional view showing a U-shaped trap pipe and its peripheral portion;

10 corresponds to FIG. 9 in another state;

11 is a longitudinal side view schematically showing the configuration of the mist generator;

12 is a view corresponding to FIG. 8 showing an eighth embodiment of the present invention;

Fig. 13 shows a ninth embodiment of the present invention and is an external perspective view of a laundry machine,

14 is a longitudinal side view schematically showing the internal configuration of the laundry machine;

15 is a rear view of the tank;

16 is a time chart showing the control contents in the case of executing a sterilization course;

17 corresponds to FIG. 15 showing a tenth embodiment of the present invention.

18 corresponds to FIG. 15 showing an eleventh embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 19 is a diagram corresponding to FIG. 15 showing a twelfth embodiment of the present invention. FIG.

* Explanation of symbols for the main parts of the drawings

1: Lundry Machine 2: Housing

3: handle 4: water tap

5: bath water hole 6: door

8: Operation panel 9: Detergent input

10: control device 11: filter housing

12: Countertop 13: Drum

14: opening of the tank 15: opening of the drum

17: bellows 18: rotary balancer

20: baffle 21: warm air inlet

23: hot air inlet 24: water supply hose

25: water supply case 26: water supply valve

27: drain 30: motor

34: ventilation duct 37: ventilation duct

47: condenser 48: compressor

Claims (20)

Circulation path connected to the tank: Blowing means for circulating air in the tank through the circulation path; Dehumidifying means for cooling and dehumidifying air flowing in the circulation path; Heating means for heating air flowing in the circulation path; And Including an electrostatic atomization device, The electrostatic atomization device, A discharge electrode formed of a porous material having absorptivity, water retention, and suction characteristics, and having a distal end protruding from the circulation path; Repair means for supplying the repaired water formed of a porous material having water retention properties to said discharge electrode; Water supply means for supplying water to the repair means; A laundry machine, comprising: high voltage applying means for negatively charging the discharge electrode by applying a negative high voltage to the discharge electrode; The method of claim 1, The laundry machine characterized by the above-mentioned space part being provided in a part of the water supply path | route from the said water supply means to the said maintenance means. The method of claim 2, A water supply valve provided as said water supply means; It is provided in a part of the water supply path from the water supply valve to the repair means, provided with a water supply port to which the water supply valve is connected, and a drain port connected with the water supply means to a downstream part, and in the vicinity of the water supply port. A U-shaped trap having a water outlet at a position lower than the drain; And A pressure resistant means for increasing the internal pressure of the U trap and further connected to an upstream portion of the U trap; The U trap traps excess water from the water outlet when the water level of the water supplied from the water supply valve to the U trap through the water inlet exceeds the height of the water outlet, thereby draining the water outlet. Without storing water in the U trap and forming the space portion in the upstream portion, The internal pressure raising means increases the internal pressure of the space portion formed in the upstream portion of the U trap in the state where the water supply valve is closed, thereby draining the water stored in the U trap from the drain. A laundry machine, characterized in that for supplying. The method of claim 2, A water supply valve installed as the water supply means; And Further provided with a tank which is provided in a part of the water supply path from the water supply valve to the maintenance means, And said space portion is formed between said water supply valve and water stored in said tank, and between said tank and said maintenance means, respectively. The method of claim 3, wherein The said water outlet of the said U-trap is connected to the said tank, The said blowing means is provided as said internal pressure raising means, The laundry machine characterized by the above-mentioned. The method of claim 5, Control means for controlling operations of the water supply valve, the high voltage applying means, and the blowing means of the electrostatic atomizing device and executing a mist generating step of generating mist from the discharge electrode; And And setting means for setting a time for supplying an amount of water at which the water starts to flow out of the water outlet in the U-shaped trap, The control means opens the water supply valve at the beginning of the mist generating step for a time set by the setting means, After a predetermined time has elapsed since closing the water supply valve, the air blowing means is driven at a predetermined rotation speed to drain the water stored in the U-shaped trap from the drain port, and to supply the water to the maintenance means. Thereafter, driving the blowing means at a rotational speed lower than the predetermined rotational speed and applying a high voltage to the discharge electrode by the high voltage applying means; The method according to claim 5 or 6, The tank has a water outlet for draining excess water when the amount of water in the tank exceeds a predetermined amount, The said water outlet of the said U trap is provided in the position higher than the said water outlet of the said tank. The method of claim 1, And a member provided opposite to said discharge electrode and located at a position away from said discharge electrode, and is configured to function as the other electrode corresponding to said discharge electrode negatively charged by said high voltage applying means. The method of claim 1, A laundry machine, characterized in that the platinum nano colloid is supported on the discharge electrode. The method of claim 1, And said repair means is formed of a fibrous ion exchange resin and covers a portion of said discharge electrode outside of said circulation path. The method of claim 10, The said maintenance means is formed by mixing an absorbent resin with the said ion exchange resin, The laundry machine characterized by the above-mentioned. The method of claim 1, The discharge machine comprises a conductive material. The method of claim 2, A storage tank installed below the discharge electrode and storing water supplied to the discharge electrode through the maintenance means; And A water daily passage connected to a drainage path for draining the water in the tank and draining the water overflowed from the reservoir tank to the drainage path, The water supply path is connected to a water supply port for supplying water to the inside of the tank, and a water supply machine for supplying a part of the water from the water supply port to the water storage tank; The method of claim 13, A laundry machine comprising a disinfectant composed of a metal element having bactericidal properties and a phosphate-based glass having a solubility in water is provided inside the reservoir tank. The method of claim 1, A plurality of said discharge electrodes are provided, Each of these discharge electrodes has the pin-shaped pointed tip part, respectively, and the curvature of these front-end parts is set in multiple numbers. The method of claim 1, The said electrostatic atomizing device is provided in the circulation path downstream from the said blowing means, The laundry machine characterized by the above-mentioned. The method of claim 16, The said circulation path is provided with the partition board which supplies the air which flows in the said circulation path to the said electrostatic atomization apparatus side, The laundry machine characterized by the above-mentioned. A discharge electrode formed of a porous material having absorbency, water retention, and suction characteristics; Repair means for supplying the repaired water formed of a porous material having water retention properties to said discharge electrode; Water supply means for supplying water to the repair means; And High voltage application means for generating a mist from said discharge electrode by applying a negative high voltage to said discharge electrode, A mist generator, characterized in that a space portion is provided in part of a water supply path from the water supply means to the maintenance means; The method of claim 18, A water supply valve provided as said water supply means; A water supply port provided in a part of a water supply path from the water supply valve to the water supply means and connected to the water supply valve; an upstream portion provided with a drain port connected with the water supply means; and in the vicinity of the water supply port; A U-shaped trap provided with a water outlet at a position lower than the drain hole; And It is further provided with the pressure-resistant raising means connected to the upstream part of the said U-trap, and raises the internal pressure of the said U-trap, The U trap traps excess water from the water outlet when the water level of the water supplied from the water supply valve to the U trap through the water inlet exceeds the height of the water outlet, thereby draining the water outlet. Without storing water in the U trap and forming the space portion in the upstream portion, The internal pressure raising means raises the internal pressure of the space portion formed in the upstream portion of the U trap in a state where the water supply valve is closed, thereby draining the water stored in the U trap from the drain port, thereby repairing the water. A mist generating device, characterized in that being supplied to; The method of claim 18, A water supply valve provided as said water supply means; And Further provided with a tank provided in a part of the water supply path from the water supply valve to the maintenance means, And the space portion is formed between the water supply valve and the water stored in the tank, and between the tank and the maintenance means, respectively.

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