TW201821671A - Washing machine - Google Patents

Abstract

A washing machine according to the present invention comprises: a washing machine body; a water tank that is supported inside the washing machine body and has a drainage port at the bottom portion thereof; and a heater unit that is disposed below the water tank and communicates with the inner bottom portion of the water tank. Furthermore, the washing machine is characterized in that: the heater unit has a heater storage container in which a heater for heating wash water is stored, and a plurality of water paths that connect the inner bottom portion of the water tank with the heater storage container; and the plurality of water paths are provided in positions where the temperatures of the wash water vary, with a power of the heater being turned on.

Description

washing machine

FIELD OF THE INVENTION The present invention relates to a washing machine, and more particularly, to a washing machine provided with a heating water generating device for heating washing water.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION Conventionally, such a washing machine, as disclosed in Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2005-512742, is equipped with a heated water generating device, which activates detergent by heating the washing water to improve the washing power.

FIG. 18 is a perspective view of a water tank in a conventional washing machine. 19 is a perspective view of a bottom surface of a water tank in a state where a heater of a conventional washing machine is removed. FIG. 20 is a configuration diagram of a main part of a heater unit showing a state where a heater is installed at the bottom of a water tank in a conventional washing machine.

In FIG. 18, the washing machine body (not shown) supports the water tank 200 in a vibration-proof manner by a suspension system (not shown). A washing machine and a dehydration tank (not shown) are rotatably provided inside the water tank 200.

The inner bottom of the water tank 200 has a bulged portion 210 that bulges downward, and a heater 220 made of a sheathed heater or the like is housed inside the bulged portion 210. A drain port 213 is formed below the bulged portion 210. In addition, the heater assembly 211 constituting the heating water generating device includes: an bulged portion 210 formed at least on the outer bottom surface of the water tank 200; a heater 220 arranged in the bulged portion 210; and a support member 240 arranged in the bulged portion Between the outlet 210 and the heater 220.

In the above configuration, the operation of the immersion step of the conventional washing machine will be described.

Put the laundry in the washing and dewatering tank together with the required detergent, and then operate the operation switch (not shown) to start the operation. After the operation is started, a predetermined amount of water is supplied to the water tank 200 through the water supply device.

Next, in order to dissolve the detergent, the washing and dewatering tank performs agitation of the water supply rotating at a low speed.

Thereafter, a soaking step is performed, in which the washing water is heated by the heater 220 for a long time.

With this immersion step, the detergent is activated by an increase in the water temperature of the washing water, and the laundry can be efficiently performed.

As shown in FIG. 20, a support member 240 for supporting the heating portion 221 of the heater 220 is formed on the bottom surface of the water tank 200 of the conventional washing machine. The supporting member 240 is bent in accordance with the shape of the heating portion 221 that has been bent a plurality of times so as to support the heating portion 221 so as not to move. The front end portion 241 of the support member 240 is locked to the boss 250 by a lock structure 243.

Hereinafter, a method of attaching the heater 220 of the heater unit 211 of the conventional washing machine described above to the water tank 200 and a method of separating the heater 220 from the water tank 200 will be described.

When the heater 220 is installed in the water tank 200, the heating part 221 of the heater 220 is inserted into the bulging part 210 from the opening 230 in the lower part of the water tank 200 from the outside of the water tank 200. By inserting the heater 220 into the support member 240 in the bulged portion 210, the heater 220 can be stably supported so as not to move. After the insertion of the heater 220 is completed, the nut that fixes the heater 220 and the washing and dewatering tank is locked, and the heater 220 is firmly supported and fixed in the bulging portion 210.

On the other hand, when the heater assembly 211 is maintained, the heater 220 can be separated from the water tank 200 by a method opposite to the mounting operation described above. That is, by loosening the nut and pulling the heater 220 out of the bulging portion 210, the heater 220 can be drawn out of the bulging portion 210 and can be separated from the water tank 200.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION In the conventional configuration, when performing maintenance on the heater unit 211, it is necessary to extract the heater 220 from the bulging portion 210. However, since a washing and dewatering tank is provided inside the water tank 200, when the heater 220 is inserted from the outside of the water tank 200, the inside of the water tank 200 cannot be seen, and it is impossible to confirm whether the heater 220 is installed in the water tank 200 securely. Bottom surface support member 240. In addition, since the heater 220 must be inserted into the water tank 200 without being able to confirm the position of the support member 240 inside the water tank 200, there is a fear that the heater 220 may collide with the support member 240 and be damaged.

As described above, the conventional washing machine has a problem in terms of convenience in maintaining the heated water generating device (the heater unit in the above-mentioned prior art).

The washing machine of the present invention includes a washing machine body, a water tank supported by the inside of the washing machine body and having a drain port at the bottom, and a drain plug valve unit connected to the drain port of the water tank. The drain plug valve unit is connected to the heater unit, and the heater unit is in communication with the bottom of the water tank. The heater unit contains a heater for heating the washing water, and forms a water path communicating with the bottom of the water tank. The drain plug valve units are respectively opened at different positions of the water temperature of the washing water with respect to the heater unit.

With this configuration, since the heater unit and the water tank are provided independently, it is possible to easily perform status checking or maintenance inside the heater unit.

The washing machine according to the present invention includes: a washing machine body; a water tank supported by the inside of the washing machine body and having a drain port at the bottom; a drain plug valve unit connected to the drain port of the water tank; and a heater unit connected to The drain plug valve unit is in communication with the inner bottom of the water tank. In addition, the heater unit includes a heater storage container that accommodates a heater for heating washing water therein, and an inner wall bottom surface of the heater storage container is gradually inclined downward toward the drain plug valve unit.

With this configuration, maintenance of the heater unit can be easily performed, and since the washing water in the heater accommodation container flows toward the drain plug valve unit during drainage, the laundry in the heater accommodation container can be suppressed during drainage. Water or foreign matter is trapped.

The washing machine according to the present invention includes a washing machine body having an inspection opening that can be opened and closed for inspection inside; a water tank supported on the inside of the washing machine body and having a drainage port at the bottom; a drain plug valve unit and drainage of the water tank. And a heater unit connected to the drain plug valve unit and communicating with the inner bottom of the water tank. The heater unit includes a heater storage container having an opening at one end, a heater installed in the heater storage container and heating the washing water, and a cover body installed to open and close the heater storage container. The heater unit is mounted on the bottom of the water tank with the opening of the heater storage container facing the inspection port.

With this configuration, by removing the cover from the heater storage container, the state inside the heater storage container can be easily confirmed even when the heater storage container is mounted on the bottom of the water tank, and can be easily Check the status of the inside of the heated water generator.

In addition, in the configuration of the heater 220 of the conventional washing machine, the support member 240 for reducing the radiant heat of the heater 220 is fixed by being screwed to the water tank 200, so there is a problem that Holes caused by the melting of the screw parts cause problems such as water leakage and damage.

The washing machine related to the present invention is composed of: a washing machine body; a water tank supported on the inside of the washing machine body and having a drain port at the bottom; a drain plug valve unit connected to the drain port of the water tank; and a heater unit connected to the drain cock The valve unit is in communication with the inner bottom of the water tank. The heater unit includes a heater storage container having an opening at the first end, a heater installed in the heater storage container and heating the washing water, and a sheet metal member located between the heater storage container and the heater. It is roughly U-shaped. In addition, a certain gap is formed on the side of the sheet metal member, and is inserted into the heater storage container through the opening on the first end portion side of the heater storage container. The heater storage container corresponds to the gap of the sheet metal member and is inserted into the sheet metal member. Band-shaped ribs are formed extending in the direction. In addition, the end portion on the side of the first end portion of the strip-shaped rib is formed to be narrower than the gap on the side surface of the sheet metal member, and the second end portion of the strip-shaped rib facing the first end portion is formed to be more than the gap on the side surface of the sheet metal member. width.

With this configuration, since the sheet metal member can be fixed in the heater storage container without screwing or welding, it is possible to suppress the occurrence of water leakage damage caused by the melting of the screw portion from the beginning of the heater storage container.

The washing machine according to the present invention includes a washing machine body, a water tank supported by the inside of the washing machine body and having a drain port at the bottom, and a drain plug valve unit connected to the drain port of the water tank. In addition, a heater unit is connected to the drain plug valve unit and communicates with the inner bottom of the water tank; and a heater is built in the heater unit and heats the washing water, and the drain port is formed in a substantially oval shape.

With this structure, since the maintenance of the heater unit can be easily performed, and the area of the drain opening can be enlarged without requiring a large investment in molds, the washing water in the sink and the heater storage container can be efficiently made at a low cost. Ground loop.

Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention Embodiments will be described in detail below with reference to appropriate drawings. However, detailed explanations that are not necessary are sometimes omitted. For example, detailed descriptions of matters that have been sufficiently understood or repeated descriptions of substantially the same structure may be omitted. This is to prevent the following description from becoming unnecessarily verbose and easy for those skilled in the art to understand.

In addition, the attached drawings and the following description are provided to enable those skilled in the art to fully understand the disclosure, and are not intended to limit the subject matter described in the scope of the patent application by these. [Table of Contents] 1. First Embodiment

1-1. Configuration 1-1-1. Configuration of washing machine 1-1-2. Configuration of heater unit 1-2. Operation of washing machine 1-3. Flow of washing water in heater unit 1-4. Method for confirming and maintaining state of heater unit 1-5. Method for detecting water temperature in water tank 2. Second embodiment

2-1. Structure of heater unit 2-2. Flow of washing water in heater unit 3. Other embodiments [1. First embodiment]

Hereinafter, a washing machine in a first embodiment of the present invention will be described using FIGS. 1 to 12. [1-1. Composition] [1-1-1. Composition of washing machine]

Fig. 1 is a longitudinal sectional view of a washing machine in the present embodiment.

In FIG. 1, the washing machine body 11 supports the sink 13 in a vibration-proof manner by being suspended inside by a suspension system 12. A washing / dehydrating tank 15 having both a washing tank and a dehydrating tank is rotatably provided inside the water tank 13. A pulsator 18 is rotatably provided at the bottom of the washing and dewatering tank 15.

A transmission mechanism section 20 is disposed on the outer bottom of the water tank 13. The transmission mechanism section 20 includes a reduction gear (not shown) for washing, a switching clutch (not shown) for the washer / dehydration shaft 14, and a brake (not shown) for stopping the washing and dewatering tank 15 inside. .

A motor 21 is mounted on the outer bottom of the water tank 13, and a motor-side pulley 22 is mounted on the motor 21. A mechanical-side pulley 23 is connected to the washing / dehydrating shaft 14, and the motor-side pulley 22 and the mechanical-side pulley 23 are connected to each other by a belt 24. With this configuration, the power of the motor 21 is transmitted to the washing / dehydrating shaft 14 through the belt 24. In addition, by controlling the switching clutch, the motor 21 can be used to achieve a state in which only the pulsator 18 is rotated and a state in which the pulsator 18 and the washing and dehydrating tank 15 are simultaneously rotated.

An upper casing 25 is disposed on the upper portion of the washing machine body 11. A laundry inlet / outlet port 26 is formed at a substantially central portion of the upper casing 25 to communicate the washing and dewatering tank 15 with the outside. The laundry inlet / outlet port 26 is covered by the door body 27 and can be opened and closed freely. An operation display section 29 is provided on the rear side of the upper casing 25. The operation display section 29 performs various input settings and displays the setting contents. A water supply valve 30 or a water injection tank 31 that can be opened and closed by electromagnetic force is disposed inside the upper side of the upper casing 25.

Inside the washing machine main body 11, a control device (not shown) having a control device (not shown) is disposed. The control device controls the motor 21 and the like to sequentially control a series of steps of washing, washing, and dehydration, or control Water temperature of laundry water.

A fluid balancer 16 is disposed on the upper part of the washing and dewatering tank 15. A back plate 17 is detachably disposed on the back of the washing machine body 11 so as to cover the back opening (inspection port) 11 a.

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a bottom surface of a sink of the washing machine and an exploded perspective view of a heater unit in the present embodiment. As shown in FIG. 2, a first drainage port 33 a and a second drainage port 33 b are provided at the bottom of the water tank 13. [1-1-2. Configuration of heater unit]

3 and 4 are perspective views of a heater unit of the washing machine in this embodiment. Fig. 5A is a top view of a heater unit of the washing machine in this embodiment. 5B is a 5B-5B cross-sectional view of FIG. 5A. Fig. 6 is a sectional view of a heater unit of the washing machine in the present embodiment. FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view of a bottom surface of a sink and a heater unit of a washing machine in the present embodiment. FIG. 8 is an enlarged sectional view of a main part of the heater unit of FIG. 7. FIG. 9 is a bottom view of the sink of the washing machine in this embodiment, and a cross-sectional view taken along 9-9 of FIG. 5A. FIG. 10 is an enlarged sectional view of a main part of the heater unit of FIG. 9 of the washing machine in the present embodiment.

Hereinafter, the heater unit 32 of the washing machine in this embodiment will be described.

As shown in FIG. 1, a heater unit 32 is fixed to an outer bottom portion on the back side of the water tank 13 and a position where the back plate 17 can be removed for maintenance.

As shown in FIG. 2, the heater unit 32 is composed of a heater storage container 37 having a substantially rectangular parallelepiped shape with openings at both ends in the longitudinal direction, and a heater 38 from the first opening of the heater storage container 37. Insertion; the sheet metal member 36 is inserted through the second opening of the heater accommodating container 37 and covers the heater 38; and the cover 51 covers the second opening through which the sheet metal member 36 can be inserted.

Hereinafter, each component will be described. [A. Heater storage container 37]

The heater storage container 37 is formed of a heat-resistant resin, and is formed in a substantially rectangular parallelepiped shape with openings at both ends in the longitudinal direction. Among the openings in the longitudinal direction of the heater accommodating container 37, the first opening is a heater insertion opening portion 37b into which the heater 38 is inserted, and the second opening is a sheet metal member inserted into the sheet metal member 36 and covered by the cover 51. The insertion opening 37c.

In the vicinity of the heater insertion opening 37b on the upper surface of the heater storage container 37, a cylindrical outflow path portion 37g communicating with the second drain port 33b at the bottom of the water tank 13 is formed.

A drain plug valve connection opening 37 a that communicates with the drain plug valve unit 34 is formed near the sheet metal member insertion opening 37 c on the side adjacent to the surface having the outflow path portion 37 g. The drain plug valve unit 34 and the heater storage container 37 are attachable and detachable by screwing (not shown) or the like.

As shown in FIG. 2, the drain plug valve unit 34 is welded and fixed by a welding protrusion 45 at a position where the inflow port 34 a communicates with the first drain port 33 a at the bottom of the water tank 13. The water tank 13 and the heater storage container 37 are connected to each other through a drain plug valve unit 34. As shown in FIG. 2, FIG. 3, FIG. 4, and FIG. 5B, the drain plug valve unit 34 includes a drain path side opening portion 34 c. The drainage-path-side opening portion 34c is in communication with the drainage path 41 (see FIG. 1). By opening the drain valve (not shown) of the drain plug valve unit 34, the washing water in the water tank 13 and the heater storage container 37 is drained to the outside of the washing machine body 11 through the drain path 41.

In this embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 6 and 9, the inclination angle of the upper surface 39 b of the inner wall of the heater housing container 37 and the inclination angle of the lower surface 39 a of the inner wall are formed at substantially the same angle. With this configuration, as shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, even if the heater storage container 37 is turned upside down, it can be used by being inserted into the bottom of the water tank 13 through the drain plug valve unit 34. Therefore, the heater unit 32 can be arranged for each model of the washing machine in consideration of the center of gravity of vibration, the arrangement of parts, and the like.

Furthermore, in this embodiment, although the water tank 13 and the drain plug valve unit 34 are fixed by welding, the present invention is not limited to this, and can be attached and detached by screwing or the like. [B. Sheet metal member 36]

As shown in FIG. 2, the sheet metal member 36 surrounding the heater 38 is formed in a substantially rectangular parallelepiped shape with openings at both ends in the longitudinal direction. The sheet metal member 36 is inserted into the heater storage container 37 from the sheet metal member insertion opening 37 c toward the front.

Since the radiant heat generated from the heater 38 is transmitted through the sheet metal member 36 and diffused, it is possible to reduce the risk that the thermal energy is concentrated on a part of the heater storage container 37 and melted to cause a hole.

The sheet metal member 36 is composed of two sheet metal parts. As shown in FIG. 2 and FIG. 7, one end of the sheet metal member 36 is spot-welded in a long-side spot welding portion 42. As shown in FIGS. 7 and 8, the other end of the sheet metal member 36 has a spacer portion 36 a which is not welded and has a certain gap. Therefore, the sheet metal member 36 is formed in a substantially U shape. The sheet metal member 36 is a support piece 40 that is recessed inward by bending. The support piece 40 fixes the heater 38 stored in the heater storage container 37 so as not to move.

A method for fixing the sheet metal member 36 and the heater storage container 37 will be described with reference to FIGS. 6, 7, and 8.

As shown in FIG. 6, a strip-shaped rib 37 d is formed on the inner wall of the heater storage container 37. The strip-shaped rib 37 d corresponds to the position of the spacer 36 a in a state where the sheet metal member 36 is inserted into the heater storage container 37. . When the sheet metal member 36 is inserted into the heater accommodating container 37 from the sheet metal member insertion opening 37 c toward the front, the band-shaped rib 37 d is positioned at the spacer portion 36 a.

As shown in FIGS. 7 and 8, in a state where the sheet metal member 36 is inserted into the heater accommodating container 37, the width dimension W of the band-shaped rib 37 d at the position where the sheet metal member 36 abuts is changed from the rear side toward the front side. width.

The width dimension W1 of the sheet metal member insertion opening 37c side (rear side) end of the strip-shaped rib 37d in FIG. 8 is formed to be larger than the gap width of the partition portion 36a in a state where the sheet metal member 36 is housed in the heater storage container 37. More narrow. The width dimension W2 of the heater insertion opening 37b side (front side) end of the strip-shaped rib 37d in FIG. 8 is formed to be larger than the interval width of the spacer portion 36a in a state where the sheet metal member 36 is housed inside the heater housing container 37. width. As shown in FIG. 9, as the sheet metal member insertion opening portion 37c side (rear side) approaches the heater insertion opening portion 37b side (front side), the lower surface 39a of the inner wall of the heater housing container 37 moves toward Upward, and the upper surface 39b of the inner wall will gradually slope downward. Therefore, as the sheet metal member 36 is inserted from the sheet metal member insertion opening portion 37c side (rear side) toward the heater insertion opening portion 37b side (front side), the interval width of the spacer portion 36a becomes narrower.

With this configuration, the sheet metal member 36 is inserted from the sheet metal member insertion opening portion 37c side (rear side) toward the heater insertion opening portion 37b side (front side) in the heater housing container 37, and starts from the middle of the insertion. The width W of the rib 37d becomes wider than the interval width of the interval portion 36a of the sheet metal member 36. Therefore, by pressing the sheet metal member 36 to push it into the heater accommodating container 37, the end portion of the partition portion 36a of the sheet metal member 36 is fitted into the band-shaped rib 37d. In this way, the sheet metal member 36 can be supported and fixed in the heater storage container 37, and the sheet metal member 36 can be prevented from rattling during the spin-drying of the laundry-dehydration tank 15.

In the present embodiment, the sheet metal member 36 is configured by spot-welding two sheets of sheet metal, but for example, one sheet of metal may be formed. [C. Heater 38]

The heater 38 will be described using FIG. 2.

The heater 38 is inserted from the heater insertion opening 37 b of the heater storage container 37.

The heater 38 is configured by a heating portion 38a, a terminal portion 38b, and a connection portion 38c.

The heating portion 38 a is located inside the heater storage container 37 and generates heat energy for heating the laundry water in the heater storage container 37. As shown in FIG. 2, the heating portion 38 a is bent multiple times on the same plane. With this configuration, since the surface area of the heating portion 38a is increased, the washing water can be efficiently heated.

The terminal portion 38b is electrically connected to the heating portion 38a. In addition, the terminal portion 38b is electrically connected to an external power source (not shown) and a control device (not shown) located outside the heater housing container 37. Power from an external power source is supplied to the heating portion 38a through the terminal portion 38b.

The connection portion 38c is interposed between the heating portion 38a and the terminal portion 38b. The connecting portion 38 c is provided with a flexible member 38 d having a size corresponding to the heater insertion opening 37 b of the heater housing container 37. In FIG. 9, in a state where the heating portion 38 a is inserted into the heater insertion opening portion 37 b, the heater 38 can be fixed in the heater storage container 37 by tightening the nut 43. That is, by tightening the nut 43, a forward force is applied to the bolt 44 and the crimping plate 47 welded to the bolt 44, so that the flexible member 38 d is compressed in the front-rear direction and expands in the surrounding direction. The heater insertion opening 37b can be sealed. With this configuration, it is possible to prevent the washing water in the heater storage container 37 from leaking from the heater insertion opening 37b. The flexible member 38d is formed of a gasket such as rubber that can be elastically deformed.

As shown in FIG. 2, a temperature detection unit 56 is provided in the connection portion 38 c. The temperature detection unit 56 measures the temperature of the water in the heater storage container 37. The temperature detection unit 56 is composed of a thermistor or the like. [D. Cover 51]

As shown in FIGS. 9 and 10, the cover 51 is a sheet metal member insertion opening 37 c detachably covering the heater housing container 37 with a screw lock (not shown).

In order to confirm the inside of the heater accommodating container 37 by removing the cover body 51 and perform maintenance on the heater unit 32, the opening portion 37c for inserting the sheet metal member covered by the cover body 51 is provided with a rear opening in the washing machine body 11. The back side of the part 11a.

The sheet metal member insertion opening 37 c covered by the cover 51 is attached to a position facing the heater 38 inserted into the heater accommodation container 37. With this configuration, the state of the heater 38 can be easily seen by removing the cover 51 from the heater housing container 37.

The cover body 51 is formed with inclined ribs 51 a (convex ribs) that push the sheet metal member 36 inserted into the heater storage container 37 toward the inner wall surface side of the heater storage container 37. The inclined rib 51a (convex rib) has an inclined surface facing the sheet metal member 36 stored in the heater storage container 37, and the inclined surface is inclined toward the inner wall surface of the heater storage container 37 from the front side toward the rear side in FIG. . With this configuration, the sheet metal member insertion opening 37c side (rear side) end portion of the sheet metal member 36 inserted into the heater housing container 37 faces the inner wall lower surface 39a by the inclined rib 51a (convex rib). And the inner wall upper surface 39b is expanded. The sheet metal member insertion opening 37c side (rear) end of the sheet metal member 36 inserted into the heater housing container 37 is extended toward the inner wall lower surface 39a and the inner wall upper surface 39b by the inclined rib 51a.

In addition, in a state where the heater storage container 37 is mounted on the bottom of the water tank 13, a rib portion 37 e (refer to the figure) extending to support the sheet metal member 36 is formed on the lower surface 39 a and the upper surface 39 b of the inner wall of the heater storage container 37. 7). The rib 37e prevents the heat of the sheet metal member 36 heated by the heater 38 from being directly transmitted to the inner wall lower surface 39a and the inner wall upper surface 39b.

With this configuration, in a state where the sheet metal member 36 is inserted into the heater accommodating container 37, the cover 51 covers the sheet metal member insertion opening 37c, and the sheet metal member 36 is covered by the inclined ribs 51a and the rib portions 37e. Support is fixed. Therefore, the sheet metal member 36 is prevented from rattling in the heater storage container 37.

The heater unit 32 is configured in this manner. [1-2. Operation of washing machine]

Next, the operation of the washing machine in this embodiment will be described.

The user opens the door body 27, puts the laundry in the washing and dewatering tank 15 from the laundry input outlet 26, then closes the door body 27, and then operates the operation display portion 29 to start the warm water washing stroke.

When the washing step is started, the water supply valve 30 is opened, and water is injected into the water tank 13 from the water injection tank 31. The injected water flows into the heater storage container 37 from the first drainage port 33 a and the second drainage port 33 b at the bottom of the water tank 13.

Here, in the warm water washing cycle, after the washing step using the heated water generated by the heater 38 is completed, the steps of rinsing and dehydrating are performed.

In the warm water washing cycle, the water in the water tank 13 is brought to a predetermined water level by filling the water tank 13 with water, and the heater 38 of the heater unit 32 is turned on. The control device controls the heater 38 to be turned on / off according to the water temperature of the washing water in the sink to control the temperature of the washing water. The water temperature detection method in the water tank will be described in [1-5. Water temperature detection method in the water tank].

When the temperature of the water in the water tank 13 reaches a predetermined temperature M1 (for example, 55 ° C.), the heater 38 is turned off. When the temperature of the measured water in the water tank 13 drops below a predetermined temperature M2 (for example, 53 ° C. or lower), the heater 38 is turned on. In this way, the washing water in the water tank 13 can be adjusted to a predetermined water temperature.

In addition, the predetermined temperatures M1 and M2 may be set in accordance with each operation stroke (for example, a sterilization stroke or a mud stroke). The predetermined temperatures M1 and M2 are changed in accordance with the operation strokes, so that the washing water can be adjusted to a water temperature suitable for the purpose of each operation stroke.

By opening the drain plug valve of the drain plug valve unit 34, the washing water is drained toward the outside of the washing machine body 11. Here, the washing water in the water tank 13 flows out of the washing machine body 11 through the drain plug valve unit 34, the outflow path portion 37g, and the heater storage container 37, so that the water in the heater storage container 37 during drainage can be suppressed. Washing water or foreign objects are stuck.

After the warm water washing is completed, the operation of adding water in the washing and dewatering tank 15 and stirring by the pulsator 18 may be repeated until the water temperature in the water tank 13 becomes lower than a predetermined temperature (for example, 50 ° C. or lower). When the temperature of the water in the water tank 13 becomes 50 ° C. or lower, the drain valve of the drain plug valve unit 34 is opened, and the washing water is drained to the outside of the washing machine body 11. When the water temperature in the water tank 13 becomes higher than a predetermined temperature (for example, 50 ° C. or higher) and the water level in the water tank 13 reaches the limit, temporary drainage is performed for a predetermined time.

With this configuration, even in an environment where the drainage is discharged to the road surface, the safety can be improved because the washing water can be drained while the temperature of the water has been reduced.

On the other hand, if the outflow path 37g of the heater accommodating container 37 is blocked due to thread shavings of clothes, etc., there is a possibility that the water flow between the heater accommodating container 37 and the water tank 13 may be blocked. If the flow of water between the heater storage container 37 and the water tank 13 is blocked, it is conceivable that the temperature of the water in the water tank is lower than the predetermined temperature M1, but the heater unit 32 may become overheated. In this case, by controlling the heater 38 to be turned off when the measured water temperature of the temperature detecting section 56 that detects the water temperature in the heater storage container 37 reaches the heater overheating set temperature (for example, 95 ° C), it can be prevented Overheating in the heater unit 32 can suppress generation of scale and deterioration of the heater storage container 37. [1-3. Flow of washing water in heater unit]

FIG. 11 is a partial cross-sectional perspective view showing the flow of washing water in the heater unit of the washing machine in this embodiment.

The flow of washing water in the heater unit 32 when the heater 38 is turned on during the warm water washing cycle will be described using FIG. 11.

An outflow path portion 37g communicating with the bottom of the water tank 13 is formed on the root side of the heating portion 38a on the upper surface of the heater storage container 37, and is connected to a side of the front end portion of the heating portion 38a on the side of the heater storage container 37 A drain plug valve unit 34 communicating with the bottom of the water tank 13.

The washing water heated in the heater storage container 37 to increase the temperature of the water rises in the heater storage container 37.

Here, since the distance from the heater 38 is closer to the outflow path portion 37g than the drain plug valve connection opening portion 37a, the temperature of the water in the heater housing container 37 is turned on with the power of the heater 38 turned on. The outflow path portion 37g may be higher than the drain plug valve connection opening portion 37a. Therefore, as shown by arrow D in FIG. 11, the washing water rising in the heater storage container 37 is discharged to the water tank 13 through the outflow path portion 37 g.

In order to fill the high-temperature laundry water discharged from the heater storage container 37 toward the water tank 13, the low-temperature and heavy-weight laundry water in the water tank 13 is shown by arrow C in FIG. The drain plug valve of the unit 34 flows into the drain plug valve front path 34 b on the upstream side and flows into the bottom portion of the heater accommodation container 37. The washing water flowing into the heater accommodating container 37 is efficiently heated by the radiant heat of the heater 38 while flowing from the vicinity of the front end of the heating portion 38a of the heater 38 to the vicinity of the root portion. Therefore, the washing water can be efficiently heated.

As shown in FIG. 11, the outflow path portion 37 g is located above the drain plug valve connection opening portion 37 a, so that the low-temperature laundry water flowing from the water tank 13 into the heater storage container 37 and the heater storage container 37 can be used. The difference in specific gravity between the high-temperature washing water flowing toward the water tank 13 efficiently circulates warm water.

As shown in FIG. 11, the upper end of the outflow path portion 37 g is located above the inflow port 34 a of the drain plug valve unit 34. With this configuration, since the pressure difference between the upper end portion and the lower end portion of the outflow path portion 37g becomes larger than the pressure difference between the upper end portion and the lower end portion of the drain plug valve front path 34b, the high-temperature The washing water easily flows out of the outflow path portion 37 g toward the water tank 13. Therefore, the circulation of warm water can be performed more efficiently.

In this way, by providing two paths (inlet port 34a, outflow path portion 37g) connecting the water tank 13 and the heater storage container 37 at positions different from the distance from the heater 38, the inside of each path can be used. The difference in the water temperature of the washing water is caused to circulate the washing water in the water tank 13 and the washing water in the heater storage container 37 by natural convection. Therefore, it is possible to reduce the number of parts without external force such as a pump, thereby reducing costs.

In addition, since the heater storage container 37 has a smaller capacity than the water tank 13, the washing water in the heater storage container 37 is heated by the heater 38 faster than the washing water in the water tank 13. The temperature change is high. Therefore, bacteria and the like contained in the washing water flowing into the heater storage container 37 can be effectively sterilized.

In addition, by rotating the pulsator 18 at regular intervals, the washing water in the water tank 13 is stirred, and the temperature of the water in the water tank 13 can be made uniform.

In the present embodiment, the larger the opening area of the first drainage port 33a and the second drainage port 33b can activate the circulation of the washing water of the heater unit 32 and the sink 13. However, if the first drainage port 33a and the second drainage port 33b are formed in a perfect circle shape and the opening area is enlarged, the welding protrusion 45 or the inner threaded screw around the first drainage port 33a and the second drainage port 33b will be caused. 46 and the like cause interference, so the bottom of the water tank 13 needs to be significantly remodeled.

Therefore, as shown in FIG. 2, the first drainage opening 33 a is formed in a substantially elliptical shape, and the openings of the first drainage opening 33 a can be enlarged without changing the positions of the welding projection 45 and the inner screw 46. area. Therefore, it is not necessary to make a large investment in molds, and it is possible to efficiently circulate the washing water in the water tank 13 and the heater storage container 37 at a low cost.

The cross-sectional area of the outflow path portion 37g may be larger than the cross-sectional area of the drain plug valve front path 34b. Since the high-temperature laundry water in the heater storage container 37 is larger than the low-temperature laundry water in the water tank 13, by increasing the cross-sectional area of 37 g of the outflow path portion through which the high-temperature laundry water passes, it can be efficient. The floor circulation heater contains the washing water in the container 37 and the washing water in the sink 13.

As shown in FIG. 9, the lower surface 39 a of the inner wall on the bottom side of the heater housing container 37 is gradually inclined downward from the heater insertion opening 37 b toward the drain plug valve connection opening 37 a. With this configuration, when draining, the washing water in the heater storage container 37 flows toward the drain plug valve connection opening 37a, and flows out to the washing machine body through the drain plug valve unit 34 and the drain path 41 (see FIG. 1). 11 outside. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the washing water or foreign matter in the heater housing container 37 from being trapped during drainage. [1-4. Status confirmation and maintenance method of heater unit]

Since large foreign matter such as line shavings generated from clothes may adhere to the heater 38 or block the outflow path portion 37g, there is a concern that the heated water in the heater storage container 37 may not flow out to the water tank 13. In addition, a defect may occur in the components of the heater unit 32. Therefore, it becomes necessary to confirm or repair the state in the heater unit 32 as necessary.

Hereinafter, a method for confirming and maintaining the state in the heater unit 32 will be described.

In order to confirm the state of the heater unit 32, the back plate 17 covering the back opening portion 11a on the rear side of the washing machine body 11 shown in FIG. The lid body 51 of the container 37 is removed. Since the heater accommodating container 37 and the lid body 51 are fixed by a screw lock, the lid body 51 can be removed by loosening the screws.

By this method, the state of the heater 38 in the heater accommodating container 37 can be confirmed from the opening portion 11 a on the back surface of the washing machine body 11, and the wire scraps and the like attached to the surface of the heater 38 can be removed as necessary. Therefore, since it is not necessary to attach or detach the lead connector connected to the heater 38, it becomes possible to easily confirm and maintain the heater 38.

In addition, when it is desired to repair or replace the sheet metal member 36, the sheet metal member 36 can be removed by withdrawing it from the heater storage container 37, and repair or replacement can be performed.

In addition, the heater unit 32 and the water tank 13 and the heater unit 32 and the drain plug valve unit 34 are detachably mounted by being locked by screws or the like (not shown). With this configuration, when it is necessary to remove foreign objects invading the heater unit 32 or when it becomes necessary to replace the heater unit 32, the washing machine body 11 can be laid down horizontally, and the heating can be performed from the bottom of the washing machine body 11. The heater unit 32 is detached from the water tank 13 and the drain plug valve unit 34, and it becomes possible to perform maintenance of the heater unit 32 alone. Moreover, since only the broken parts of the heater unit 32 can be maintained, the time or cost required for repair can be reduced. [1-5. Water temperature detection method in water tank]

FIG. 12 is a graph of the water temperature in the heater storage container 37 of the washing machine and the water temperature in the water tank 13 in the present embodiment.

When the heater 38 is turned on at time Ta0, the water in the heater storage container 37 is heated by the heater 38. Since the heater storage container 37 has a smaller volume than the water tank, the temperature of the water in the heater storage container 37 is generally 10 to 40 ° C higher than the temperature of the water in the water tank 13, but it is closed at time Ta1. After a predetermined time has passed by the heater 38, the water temperature in the water tank 13 and the water temperature in the heater storage container 37 gradually become uniform and become almost the same water temperature at time Ta2.

Hereinafter, a method of estimating the water temperature in the water tank 13 using the temperature detection section 56 of the heater 38 will be described.

In the warm water washing cycle, the heater unit 32 is turned on after the water level is reached by filling the water tank 13 with water. The time at this time is set to Ta0. Next, after the heater 38 is turned on and a predetermined time has elapsed (the time at this time is set to Ta1), the heater 38 is turned off. After the heater 38 is turned off, the temperature of the water in the heater accommodating container 37 and the temperature of the water in the water tank 13 becomes a substantially uniform predetermined time (the time at this time is set to Ta2), and the temperature detection unit 56 By measuring the temperature of the water in the heater storage container 37, the temperature of the water in the water tank 13 can be estimated.

The on time (Ta0 to Ta1) of the heater 38 is preferably calculated from the output of the heater 38, the amount of water in the water tank 13, the amount of clothes, and the like. For example, the output of the heater is 1500W, the amount of water in the water tank 13 is 66L, and the amount of clothes is 5kg. When the initial water temperature is 20 ° C to a predetermined temperature of 55 ° C, it is about 130 minutes.

The predetermined time (Ta1 to Ta2) for turning off the heater 38 is preferably, for example, 1 to 5 minutes.

After the heater 38 is turned off for a predetermined time, the pulsator 18 is rotated for a predetermined time, whereby the washing water in the water tank 13 is stirred, and the balance of the water temperature difference between the water tank 13 and the heater storage container 37 can be promoted. Therefore, the water temperature difference between the heater storage container 37 and the water tank 13 becomes smaller in a short time, and the water temperature in the water tank 13 can be detected with high accuracy.

Next, a control method for adjusting the washing water in the water tank 13 to a predetermined target setting water temperature (for example, 53 ° C.) using the temperature detection unit 56 will be described.

After the water supply to the water tank 13 is completed, the first power-on time of the heater 38 is calculated from the water supply amount or the water temperature in the water tank 13, and the heater 38 is turned on for the first power-on time. Here, the heater 38 may be continuously turned on during the first energization time, or may be intermittently operated.

During the first energization time, the temperature rise rate Vt of the washing water in the water tank 13 is calculated from the estimated water temperature of the washing water in the water tank 13 calculated by the temperature detection unit 56. From the water temperature T1 in the water tank 13 after the temperature rise rate Vt and the first energization time have elapsed (the time at this time is Tb1), the second energization of the heater 38 until the washing water in the water tank reaches the target set water temperature is calculated. time. Here, the heater 38 may be continuously turned on during the second energization time, or may be intermittently operated.

After the heater 38 is continuously turned on for the second energization time, the temperature T2 in the water tank 13 is estimated by the temperature detection unit 56 and compared with the target set water temperature. When the water temperature T2 is lower than the target set water temperature, the heater 38 is turned on for a predetermined time, and the temperature in the water tank 13 is estimated again by the temperature detection unit 56. When the water temperature T2 is higher than the target set water temperature, the heater 38 is turned off for a predetermined time, and the temperature in the water tank 13 is estimated again by the temperature detection unit 56.

According to this method, the temperature of the washing water in the water tank 13 can be adjusted using the temperature detection unit 56 that measures the temperature of the water in the heater storage container 37. Therefore, there is no need to provide a water temperature detection section in the water tank, and a highly reliable washing machine can be provided at a low cost.

In the present embodiment, the connection path between the water tank 13 and the heater storage container 37 is constituted by the drain plug valve unit 34 and the outflow path portion 37g formed in the heater storage container 37, but the present invention is not limited to this this. For example, an inflow path portion and an outflow path portion may be formed in the heater storage container 37, and the water tank 13 and the heater storage container 37 may be directly communicated without transmitting through the drain plug valve unit 34. At this time, the drain plug valve unit 34 may be connected to the bottom surface or side surface of the heater storage container 37 in a state where the heater storage container 37 is installed at the bottom of the water tank 13.

In this embodiment, although the structure which detects the water temperature in the water tank 13 by the temperature detection part 56 arrange | positioned in the heater accommodating container 37 was demonstrated, this invention is not limited to this, For example, it may be in the water tank 13 Or the drain plug valve unit 34 is provided with a temperature detection unit in the water tank composed of a thermistor or the like to measure the water temperature in the water tank 13.

In this embodiment, although the connection path of the water tank 13 and the heater storage container 37 is provided as two drain plug valve units 34 and the outflow path portion 37g, the present invention is not limited to this. The water tank 13 and the heater storage container 37 You can set more than three link paths.

In this embodiment, although the sheet metal member 36 is formed by forming two sheets of sheet metal, it may be formed of, for example, one sheet of metal.

In the present embodiment, a description has been given of a configuration in which the lid body 51 is provided in the heater housing container 37 and is located on the back side of the washing machine body 11 in a state where the heater unit 32 is mounted on the outer bottom surface of the water tank 13. The lid body 51 may be provided in a direction in which the openable and closable opening of the washing machine body 11 is provided in the heater storage container 37. Therefore, in the heater storage container 37 opened and closed by the cover body 51, the opening may be formed on the front side of the washing machine body 11, or may be formed on the side of the washing machine body 11.

In this embodiment, although the first drainage port 33a is formed into an approximately oval shape, the second drainage port may be formed into an approximately oval shape, and the first drainage port 33a and the second drainage port 33b may be formed into an approximately oval shape. shape.

In the present embodiment, the configuration in which the bottom of the water tank 13 communicates with the heater storage container 37 and circulates warm water by natural convection has been described, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the heater storage container 37 and the washing and dewatering tank 15 may be connected to each other through a circulation pump, and the heated water in the heater storage container 37 may be directed into the washing and dewatering tank 15 by the circulation pump. Flow out to circulate warm water.

In this embodiment, it is also possible to provide a type of conductor that flows the washing water in the water tank 13 into the inlet 34 a of the drain plug valve unit 34. With this configuration, the centrifugal force generated by the driving of the pulsator 18 can efficiently flow the washing water from the water tank 13 into the heater storage container 37.

In this embodiment, although the vertical type washing machine was described as an example of a washing machine, this invention is not limited to this, A drum type washing machine may be sufficient as it.

As described above, this embodiment has been described as an example of the technology disclosed in this application. However, the technology of the present disclosure is not limited to this, and can also be applied to embodiments in which changes, replacements, additions, and omissions are performed. In addition, it is also possible to create a new embodiment by combining the components described in this embodiment. [2. Second Embodiment]

The washing machine in the first embodiment is configured such that the heater storage container 37 and the inner bottom surface of the water tank 13 are connected by two paths to circulate the heated washing water in the heater storage container 37 and the washing water in the water tank 13. However, in the first embodiment, it is necessary to provide a plurality of drain holes in the water tank 13. Therefore, the washing machine in the second embodiment is configured such that the heater storage container and the bottom surface of the water tank are connected in a single path.

The second embodiment will be described below with reference to FIGS. 13 to 17. A longitudinal sectional view of the washing machine is referred to FIG. 1.

Although the bottom of the water tank 13 of the washing machine in the first embodiment includes the first drainage port 33a and the second drainage port 33b, the bottom of the water tank 113 of the washing machine in the present embodiment includes the drainage port 133 shown in FIG. Since the other configuration of the washing machine in this embodiment is the same as that of the washing machine in the first embodiment, the description is omitted. [2-1. Configuration of heater unit]

FIG. 13 is an exploded perspective view of the heater unit 132 of the washing machine in this embodiment. FIG. 14 is a cross-sectional view of a bottom surface of a sink, a drain plug valve unit, and a heater unit of a washing machine in the present embodiment. 15 and 16 are perspective views of a heater unit of the washing machine in this embodiment.

Hereinafter, the heater unit 132 of the washing machine in this embodiment will be described.

As shown in FIG. 14, a heater unit 132 is fixed at a position where the back plate 17 can be removed for maintenance at the bottom other than the back side of the water tank 113.

As shown, the heater unit 132 is composed of a heater storage container 137 having a substantially rectangular parallelepiped shape with openings at both ends in the longitudinal direction, and a heater 138 inserted through the first opening of the heater storage container 137; The sheet metal member 136 is inserted through the second opening of the heater housing container 137 and covers the heater 138; and the cover 151 covers the second opening through which the sheet metal member 136 can be inserted.

Hereinafter, each component will be described. The heater 138 in this embodiment has the same configuration as the heater 38 in the first embodiment, and therefore description thereof is omitted. [A. Heater storage container 137]

As shown in FIG. 13, the heater storage container 137 is formed of a heat-resistant resin, and is formed in a substantially rectangular parallelepiped shape with openings at both ends in the longitudinal direction.

A drain plug valve connection opening portion 137 a that is in communication with the drain plug valve unit 134 is provided near the sheet metal member insertion opening portion 137 c on the side in the longitudinal direction side of the heater storage container 137. In the washing machine in the first embodiment, a cylindrical outflow path portion 37g is formed on the upper surface of the heater storage container 37 and communicates with the second drain opening 33b at the bottom of the water tank 13, but the heater in this embodiment That path is not formed in the storage container 137. The configuration of the other heater storage container 137 is the same as that of the heater storage container 37 of the first embodiment.

As shown in FIG. 14, the drain plug valve unit 134 is a drain port 133 detachably attached to the bottom of the water tank 113 with a screw or the like. As shown in FIG. 15, a part of the drain plug valve unit 134 is formed in a substantially L-shape extending toward the heater storage container 137, and the water tank 113 and the heater storage container 137 are connected to each other through the drain plug valve unit 134. As shown in FIG. 14, the drain plug valve unit 134 is provided with a partition wall 146 that separates a path in the drain plug valve unit 134 from the water tank 113 to the heater storage container 137. The partition wall 146 is formed of a vertical portion 146a and a horizontal portion 146b extending from the lower end of the vertical portion 146a toward the heater 138, and is formed in an L-shaped cross section. With the partition wall 146, the water path in the drain plug valve unit 134 is separated into FIG. 14: the inflow path 135a is located to the left of the vertical portion 146a and below the horizontal portion 146b; and the outflow path 135b is located at the horizontal portion 146b. Upper and right of the vertical portion 146a.

As shown in FIG. 14, in this embodiment, the inclination angle of the upper surface 139 b of the inner wall of the heater housing container 137 and the inclination angle of the lower surface 139 a of the inner wall are formed at approximately the same angle. With this configuration, as shown in FIGS. 15 and 16, even if the heater storage container 137 is turned upside down, it can be used by being inserted into the bottom of the water tank 113 through the drain plug valve unit 134. Therefore, the heater unit 132 can be arranged for each model of the washing machine in consideration of the center of gravity of vibration, the arrangement of parts, and the like. [B. Sheet metal member 136]

As shown in FIG. 13, the sheet metal member 136 surrounding the heater 138 is formed into a substantially rectangular parallelepiped shape having an opening at one end in the longitudinal direction. The sheet metal member 136 is formed by forming one sheet metal part into a substantially rectangular parallelepiped shape. As shown in FIG. 14, one end of the sheet metal member 136 in the longitudinal direction has a spacer 136 a that is not welded and has a certain gap. A fixed metal member 140 that supports and fixes the heater 138 is welded to the inner surface of the sheet metal member 136. The fixed metal member 140 fixes the heater 138 stored in the heater storage container 137 so as not to move.

The sheet metal member 136 may be configured by, for example, welding two sheets of sheet metal by spot welding or the like.

The method of fixing the sheet metal member 136 and the heater storage container 137 is the same as that of the first embodiment. [C. Lid 151]

As shown in FIG. 13, the lid 151 is a sheet metal member insertion opening 137 c detachably covering the heater housing container 137 with a lock such as a screw (not shown).

Although the cover body 51 of the washing machine in the first embodiment is formed with inclined ribs 51a (convex ribs) (refer to FIG. 6), the cover body 151 of the washing machine in this embodiment is not formed with Kind of ribs. The other structure of the cover body 151 in this embodiment is the same as that of the cover body 51 in the first embodiment.

The heater unit 132 is configured in this manner. [2-2. Flow of washing water in heater unit]

FIG. 17 is a cross-sectional view showing the flow of washing water in the heater unit of the washing machine in this embodiment. The flow of washing water in the heater unit 132 in a state where the heater 138 is turned on during the warm water washing cycle will be described using FIG. 17.

As shown in FIG. 13, a drain plug valve unit 134 communicating with the bottom of the water tank 113 is connected to a side surface in the longitudinal direction of the heater storage container 137. As shown in FIG. 14, a partition wall 146 is provided inside the drain plug valve unit 134. The partition wall 146 is formed in a substantially L-shape that extends downward toward the heater 138. The partition wall 146 can prevent low-temperature washing water and high-temperature washing water from being mixed in the drain plug valve 134, and efficiently circulate the washing water. The low-temperature washing water flows from the water tank 113 toward the heater storage container 137. The low-temperature washing water flowing into the path 135 a is the high-temperature washing water flowing from the heater storage container 137 toward the water tank 113.

In the state where the heater storage container 137 is filled with washing water, if the heater 138 is turned on, the washing water in the heater storage container 137 is heated by the heater 138, and rises in the heater storage container 137, as in The arrow B in FIG. 17 is discharged from the outflow path 135 b to the water tank 113.

On the other hand, in order to fill the high-temperature laundry water discharged from the heater storage container 137 toward the water tank 113, the low-temperature and heavy-weight laundry water in the water tank 113 will flow through the inflow path 135a toward The heater storage container 137 flows into the container. Since the heated washing water in the heater storage container 137 moves upward, the low-temperature washing water in the water tank 113 easily flows into the bottom side of the heater storage container 137 from the inflow path 135a.

The washing water that has flowed into the heater storage container 137 is heated by the heater 138, rises in the heater storage container 137, and flows out of the outflow path 135b to the water tank 113.

In this way, the heater storage container 137 and the bottom of the water tank 113 are communicated through a path, and the washing water is circulated by natural convection caused by the temperature difference of the washing water, so that the heater unit 132 can be installed. For both the models and models without the heater unit 132, a common mold for the water tank 113 is used. Therefore, it is possible to reduce the manufacturing cost at the time of development for realizing the warm water specification function. In addition, the heater unit 132 can be provided in an external manner as needed.

As shown in FIGS. 14 and 17, the upper end portion of the vertical portion 146 a of the partition wall 146 is located above the inflow port 134 a. With such a configuration, it is possible to suppress the high-temperature washing water discharged from the outflow path 135b toward the water tank 113 from entering the inflow path 135a. Therefore, the washing water in the water tank can be efficiently heated.

In addition, by rotating the pulsator 18 at regular intervals, the washing water in the water tank 113 is stirred, and the water temperature in the water tank 113 and the water temperature in the heater storage container can be made uniform in a short time.

In addition, as shown in FIG. 17, the upper surface 139b of the inner wall of the water tank 113 side (upper side) of the heater storage container 137 extends from the heater insertion opening 137b (see FIG. 13) toward the drain plug valve connection opening 137a. The sink side (upper side) is gradually inclined. With this configuration, when the washing water is supplied into the heater storage container 137, the air accumulated in the heater storage container 137 can be easily discharged from the heater storage container 137 toward the water tank 113. Therefore, the accumulation of air in the heater storage container 137 can be prevented, and the risk of air burn can be reduced. [3. Other embodiments]

As described above, the first embodiment and the second embodiment have been described as examples of the technology disclosed in this application. However, the technology of the present disclosure is not limited to this, and can also be applied to embodiments in which changes, replacements, additions, and omissions are performed. In addition, it is also possible to create a new embodiment by combining the constituent elements described in the first embodiment and the second embodiment.

Therefore, other embodiments are exemplified below.

In the first embodiment, the connection path between the water tank 13 and the heater storage container 37 is constituted by the drain plug valve unit 34 and the outflow path portion 37g formed in the heater storage container 37, but the present invention is not limited thereto herein. For example, an inflow path portion and an outflow path portion may be formed in the heater storage container 37, and the water tank 13 and the heater storage container 37 may be directly communicated without transmitting through the drain plug valve unit 34. At this time, the drain plug valve unit 34 may be connected to the bottom surface or side surface of the heater storage container 37 in a state where the heater storage container 37 is installed at the bottom of the water tank 13. Moreover, three or more connection paths of the water tank 13 and the heater storage container 37 may be provided.

In the first embodiment, although the first drainage port 33a is formed into an approximately oval shape, the second drainage port 33b may be formed into an approximately oval shape, and the first drainage port 33a and the second drainage port 33b may be formed into Roughly oval shape.

In the first embodiment, the configuration in which the temperature of the water in the water tank 13 is detected by the temperature detection unit 56 provided in the heater storage container has been described. However, the present invention is not limited to this. A temperature detection unit in the water tank including a thermistor or the like is provided to measure the water temperature in the water tank 13.

In the second embodiment, the connection path is formed by the drain plug valve unit 134 between the water tank 113 and the heater storage container 137, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the heater storage container 137 may be formed with a path portion communicating with a drain port at the bottom of the water tank 113, thereby directly communicating the water tank 113 and the heater storage container 137 without passing through the drain plug valve unit 134. In this case, a partition wall may be provided inside the path portion. In addition, by forming the path portion of the heater storage container 137 in a substantially L-shape, and communicating the side surface of the heater storage container 137 with the bottom surface of the water tank 113, the low-temperature washing water in the water tank 113 can be easily removed. The inflow path 135 a flows into the bottom side of the heater storage container 137. Furthermore, the drain plug valve unit 134 may be connected to the bottom surface or side surface of the heater storage container 137 in a state where the heater storage container 137 is installed at the bottom of the water tank 113.

In the second embodiment, although the configuration in which the upper end portion of the vertical portion 146a of the partition wall 146 is positioned higher than the inflow inlet 134a has been described, the present invention is not limited to this, and the upper end portion of the vertical portion 146a may be located in the specific flow. The entrance 134a is further down.

In the first embodiment and the second embodiment, the state in which the heater units 32 and 132 are mounted on the outer bottom surfaces of the water tanks 13 and 113 has been described. The structure of the back opening part 11a of 11. The lid body 51 may be provided in a direction in which the openable and closable opening of the washing machine body 11 is provided in the heater storage container 37. Therefore, the openings of the heater accommodating containers 37 and 137 opened and closed by the lids 51 and 151 may be formed on the front side of the washing machine body 11 or on the side of the washing machine body 11.

Although the first embodiment and the second embodiment have described a vertical type washing machine as an example of a washing machine, the present invention is not limited to this, and a drum type washing machine may be used.

In addition, this embodiment is for exemplifying the technology of the present disclosure. Therefore, various changes, substitutions, additions, omissions, etc. can be made within the scope of the patent application or its equivalent scope.

As described above, the washing machine in the first disclosure includes: a washing machine body; a water tank supported on the inside of the washing machine body and having a drain port at the bottom; and a drain plug valve unit connected to the drain port of the water tank. The drain plug valve unit is connected to the heater unit, and the heater unit is in communication with the bottom of the water tank. The heater unit contains a heater for heating the washing water, and forms a water path communicating with the bottom of the water tank. The drain plug valve units are respectively opened at different positions of the water temperature of the washing water with respect to the heater unit.

With this configuration, it is possible to easily perform status confirmation or maintenance inside the heater unit.

In the washing machine according to the second disclosure, the water path and the drain plug valve unit of the washing machine according to the first disclosure are respectively provided near both ends of a heater built in the heater unit.

With this configuration, the washing water that has flowed into the heater storage container can be efficiently heated while effectively utilizing the radiant heat of the heater.

The washing machine according to the third disclosure includes: a washing machine body; a water tank supported by the inside of the washing machine body and having a drain port at the bottom; and a heater unit communicating with the inner bottom of the water tank and containing washing water therein. Heated heater. In addition, the heater unit is communicated with the bottom of the water tank through a plurality of water channels, and the plurality of water channels are respectively opened at positions where the water temperature of the washing water is different from the heater unit.

With this configuration, it is possible to easily perform status confirmation or maintenance inside the heater unit.

Moreover, the washing machine in the fourth disclosure installs a plurality of water channels of the washing machine in the third disclosure at least near both ends of a heater built in the heater unit.

With this configuration, the washing water that has flowed into the heater storage container can be efficiently heated while effectively utilizing the radiant heat of the heater. (Appendix 1 related to the means to solve the problem)

[Supplementary Note 1] A washing machine including: a washing machine body; a water tank supported by the inside of the washing machine body and having a drain port at the bottom; a drain plug valve unit connected to the drain port of the water tank; and a heater unit connected The drain plug valve unit is in communication with the inner bottom of the water tank, the heater unit has a heater storage container, and the heater storage container will house a heater for heating the washing water inside, and the heater storage container The bottom surface of the inner wall will gradually slope downward toward the drain plug valve unit.

[Supplementary Note 2] The washing machine according to Supplementary Note 1, wherein the upper surface of the inner wall of the heater accommodating container is gradually inclined upward toward the drain plug valve unit.

[Supplementary Note 3] The washing machine according to Supplementary Note 2, wherein the inclination angle of the upper surface of the inner wall of the heater storage container and the inclination angle of the bottom surface of the inner wall of the heater storage container are formed substantially the same.

With the configuration of [Supplementary Note 1], during the drainage, the washing water in the heater storage container flows toward the drain plug valve unit, so it is possible to suppress the retention of the washing water or foreign matter in the heater storage container during the drainage.

With the configuration of [Supplementary Note 2], when the washing water is supplied into the heater storage container, the air accumulated in the heater storage container can be easily discharged toward the water tank. Therefore, the accumulation of air in the heater storage container can be prevented, and the risk of air burn can be reduced.

With the structure of [Supplementary Note 3], even if the heater storage container is turned upside down, it can be used by being mounted on the bottom of the water tank. Therefore, the heater unit can be arranged in consideration of the center of gravity of the vibration, the arrangement of parts, and the like. (Appendix 2 related to the means to solve the problem)

[Supplementary Note 1] A washing machine including: a washing machine body having an inspection opening that can be opened and closed; a water tank supported on the inside of the washing machine body and having a drain port at the bottom; a drain plug valve unit and the water tank A drain connection; and a heater unit connected to the drain plug valve unit and communicating with an inner bottom of the water tank, the heater unit includes a heater accommodating container having an opening at one end, and a heater mounted on the heater The storage container heats laundry water; and a cover is installed to open and close the opening of the heater storage container, and the heater unit is installed in a state where the opening of the heater storage container faces the inspection port. At the bottom of the sink.

[Supplementary Note 2] The washing machine according to Supplementary Note 1, wherein the heater unit is formed with the opening of the heater storage container at a position facing the heater contained in the heater storage container.

With the configuration of [Supplementary Note 1], the state of the heater can be easily seen by removing the lid from the heater storage container.

With the configuration of [Supplementary Note 2], the state of the heater can be seen, and the heater can be easily maintained. (Appendix 3 related to the means to solve the problem)

[Supplementary Note 1] A washing machine including: a washing machine body; a water tank supported by the inside of the washing machine body and having a drain port at the bottom; a drain plug valve unit connected to the drain port of the water tank; and a heater unit connected The drain plug valve unit is in communication with the inner bottom of the water tank, and the heater unit includes: a heater storage container having an opening at a first end; a heater installed in the heater storage container and washing water Heating; and a sheet metal member, located between the heater storage container and the heater, in a substantially U-shape, forming a certain gap on the side of the sheet metal member, and from the first end portion side of the heater storage container The opening is inserted into the heater accommodating container, the heater accommodating container corresponds to the gap of the sheet metal member, and a strip-shaped rib is formed in the insertion direction of the sheet metal member, and the first end of the strip-shaped rib The end portion on the part side is formed to be narrower than the gap on the side surface of the sheet metal member, and the band-shaped rib is connected to the first end. The second end portion facing the portion is formed to be wider than the gap on the side surface of the sheet metal member.

[Supplementary Note 2] The washing machine according to Supplementary Note 1, wherein as the sheet metal member is inserted from the opening on the first end portion side of the heater storage container into the heater storage container, a peripheral edge portion of the gap of the sheet metal member The ends are embedded in the aforementioned ribs.

[Supplementary Note 3] The washing machine according to any one of Supplementary Note 1 or Supplementary Note 2, wherein the upper surface of the inner wall and the lower surface of the inner wall of the heater storage container are provided with extension ribs.

[Supplementary Note 4] The washing machine according to any one of Supplementary Notes 1 to 3, wherein a cover is installed to be able to open and close the opening of the heater storage container, and the cover is provided with the cover covering the heater storage container. In the opened state, the convex rib is located inside the heater storage container, and the convex rib has an inclined surface facing the sheet metal member stored in the heater storage container, and the inclined surface is from the convex rib. The front end portion is inclined toward the opening to approach the inner wall surface of the heater storage container.

With the structure of [Supplementary Note 1], the sheet metal member can be fixed in the heater storage container without screwing or welding. Therefore, it is possible to suppress the occurrence of water leakage damage caused by the melting of the screw portion of the heater housing container from the beginning, and to provide a highly reliable washing machine.

With the configuration of [Supplementary Note 2], the heater storage container and the sheet metal member can be firmly fixed.

With the structure of [Supplementary Note 3], the sheet metal member inserted into the heater storage container can be supported, and the heat of the sheet metal member heated by the heater can be suppressed from being directly transmitted to the upper surface of the inner wall of the heater storage container, and the inside. The lower surface of the wall.

With the configuration of [Supplementary Note 4], the sheet metal member inserted into the heater storage container can be supported and fixed by the cover. (Appendix 4 related to the means to solve the problem)

[Supplementary Note 1] A washing machine including: a washing machine body having an inspection opening that can be opened and closed; a water tank supported on the inside of the washing machine body and having a drain port at the bottom; a drain plug valve unit and the water tank A drain connection; and a heater unit connected to the drain plug valve unit and communicating with an inner bottom of the water tank, the heater unit includes a heater accommodating container having an opening at one end, and a heater mounted on the heater The storage container heats laundry water; and a cover is installed to open and close the opening of the heater storage container, and the heater unit is installed in a state where the opening of the heater storage container faces the inspection port. At the bottom of the sink.

[Supplementary Note 2] The washing machine according to Supplementary Note 1, wherein the heater unit is formed with the opening of the heater storage container at a position facing the heater contained in the heater storage container.

With the configuration of [Supplementary Note 1], the state of the heater can be easily seen by removing the lid from the heater storage container.

With the configuration of [Supplementary Note 2], the state of the heater can be seen, and the heater can be easily maintained.

As described above, the washing machine of the present invention can be used not only for domestic use, but also for business use.

11‧‧‧Washing machine body

11a‧‧‧back opening (inspection opening)

12‧‧‧ Suspension system

13, 113, 200‧‧‧ Sinks

14‧‧‧washing / dewatering shaft

15‧‧‧Laundry and dehydration tank

16‧‧‧ fluid balancer

17‧‧‧ back plate

18‧‧‧pulsator

20‧‧‧Communication Department

21‧‧‧Motor

22‧‧‧Motor side pulley

23‧‧‧Mechanical side pulley

24‧‧‧Belt

25‧‧‧ Upper frame

26‧‧‧Laundry input and output

27‧‧‧Door body

29‧‧‧ Operation display

30‧‧‧ Water supply valve

31‧‧‧ water injection tank

32, 132‧‧‧ heater unit

33a‧‧‧The first drainage outlet

33b‧‧‧Second Drain Outlet

34、134‧‧‧Drain plug valve unit

34a, 134a‧‧‧Inlet

34b‧‧‧Drain plug valve front path

34c, 134c‧‧‧‧Drain path side opening

36, 136‧‧‧ Sheet metal components

36a, 136a‧‧‧partition

37, 137‧‧‧ heater storage container

37a, 137a‧‧‧‧Drain plug valve connection opening

37b, 137b ‧‧‧ opening for heater insertion

37c, 137c‧‧‧‧ Sheet metal member opening

37d‧‧‧ribbon

37e‧‧‧ rib

37g‧‧‧Outflow Path

38, 138, 220‧‧‧ heater

38a 、 221‧‧‧Heating section

38b‧‧‧Terminal

38c‧‧‧Connection Department

38d‧‧‧ flexible member

39a, 139a‧‧‧ the lower surface of the inner wall

39b, 139b‧‧‧ Upper surface of inner wall

40‧‧‧ support sheet

41‧‧‧Drainage path

42‧‧‧ Spot Welding Department

43‧‧‧nut

44‧‧‧ Bolt

45‧‧‧welding projection

46‧‧‧Textured Screw

47‧‧‧ Crimp Plate

51, 151‧‧‧ Lid

51a‧‧‧ inclined rib

56‧‧‧Temperature detection department

133, 213‧‧‧ Drain

135a‧‧‧Inflow path

135b‧‧‧Outflow path

140‧‧‧Fixed metal components

146‧‧‧ partition

146a‧‧‧Vertical

146b‧‧‧Horizontal

210‧‧‧ Bulging

211‧‧‧heater assembly

230‧‧‧ opening

240‧‧‧ support members

241‧‧‧Front end

243‧‧‧Lock Structure

250‧‧‧ convex seat

A, B, C, D‧‧‧ arrows

W, W1, W2‧‧‧Width

Fig. 1 is a longitudinal sectional view of a washing machine in a first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of a heater unit arranged on a back surface of a sink of a washing machine in the first embodiment of the present invention.

Fig. 3 is a perspective view of a heater unit of a washing machine in the first embodiment of the present invention.

Fig. 4 is a perspective view of a heater unit of a washing machine in the first embodiment of the present invention.

5A is a top view of a heater unit of a washing machine in the first embodiment of the present invention.

5B is a 5B-5B cross-sectional view of FIG. 5A.

Fig. 6 is a sectional view of a heater unit of a washing machine in the first embodiment of the present invention.

7 is a cross-sectional view of a bottom surface of a water tank and a heater unit of a washing machine in the first embodiment of the present invention.

8 is an enlarged sectional view of a main part of a heater unit of a washing machine in the first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 9 is a 9-9 cross-sectional view of FIG. 5A.

Fig. 10 is an enlarged sectional view of a main part of a heater unit of a washing machine in the first embodiment of the present invention.

11 is a partial cross-sectional perspective view showing the flow of washing water in a heater unit of a washing machine in the first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 12 is a graph showing the water temperature in the heater storage container of the washing machine and the water temperature in the water tank in the first embodiment of the present invention.

13 is an exploded perspective view of a heater unit of a washing machine in a second embodiment of the present invention.

14 is a cross-sectional view of a bottom surface of a water tank, a drain plug valve unit, and a heater unit of a washing machine in a second embodiment of the present invention.

15 is a perspective view of a heater unit of a washing machine in a second embodiment of the present invention.

16 is a perspective view of a heater unit of a washing machine in a second embodiment of the present invention.

17 is a cross-sectional view showing the flow of washing water in a heater unit of a washing machine in a second embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 18 is a perspective view of a water tank in a conventional washing machine.

Fig. 19 is a rear perspective view of the water tank in a state where a heater of a conventional washing machine is removed.

FIG. 20 is a side view of a main part of a heater unit showing a state where a heater is installed at the bottom of a water tank in a conventional washing machine.

Claims (4)

A washing machine includes: a washing machine body; a water tank supported on the inside of the washing machine body and having a drain port at the bottom; and a drain plug valve unit connected to the drain port of the water tank, the drain plug valve unit and a heater unit The heater unit is connected to the bottom of the water tank. The heater unit contains a heater for heating washing water and forms a water path communicating with the bottom of the water tank. The water path and the drain plug valve unit are opposite to each other. The heater unit is opened at a position where the water temperature of the washing water is different. The washing machine according to claim 1, wherein the water path and the drain plug valve unit are respectively provided near both ends of the heater built in the heater unit. A washing machine includes: a washing machine body; a water tank supported on the inside of the washing machine body and having a drainage port at the bottom; and a heater unit communicating with the inner bottom of the water tank and heating the washing water in the interior The heater unit communicates with the bottom of the water tank through a plurality of water channels, and the plurality of water channels are respectively opened at different positions of the water temperature of the washing water relative to the heater unit. The washing machine according to claim 3, wherein the plurality of water channels are provided at least near both ends of the heater built in the heater unit.