TWI613341B - washing machine - Google Patents

Abstract

Provided is a washing machine capable of automatically supplying appropriate amounts of lotion and softener to be supplied to each tub according to the amount of laundry.

A washing machine includes a frame body (4), a water tank (17) provided with a rotating drum (20) inside the frame body, and an automatic washing treatment liquid supply means (30) for supplying a lotion into the water tank, and supplying the motor (65) is the use of a DC brush motor, and by appropriately setting the reduction ratio of the gear pump (51), the maximum supply amount per unit time is in the viscosity range from the softener with the lowest viscosity to the liquid detergent with the highest viscosity. And the difference between the minimum supply amount, that is, the "variation in supply amount" becomes the smallest, and a substantially constant supply amount can be supplied regardless of viscosity.

Description

washing machine

The present invention is a washing machine for washing clothes.

For example, a drum-type washing machine is carried out until a drum is rotatably arranged in a water tank which is horizontally or substantially horizontally inclined, and the drum is rotated and driven around the rotation axis to wash, wash, and dehydrate the laundry. There are also drum-type washing machines until the laundry is dried.

The drum-type washing machine of Patent Document 1 is "equipped with a housing, a washing tank, and an automatic lotion supply device provided in the housing. The automatic lotion supply device is provided with a lotion tank and a lotion tank The internal transfer pump is further equipped with a control means for controlling the automatic lotion supply device "(abstract).

Furthermore, the "transport pump is an immersion pump provided with a DC motor and a gear pump" (items 25, 32, and 33 in the scope of patent application).

The washing machine of Patent Document 2 is "the water receiving tank 3 which rotatably arranges the washing and dewatering tank 1 with a water receiving tank cover 9 Above, a peripheral cover 15 is provided so as to cover the upper part of the outer periphery 6 of the water-receiving tank 3 with vibration-proof support. The outer frame cover 15 is provided with a lotion tank 17 that can hold a liquid lotion 16 that can be used at least twice, and the liquid lotion 16 is put into the washing and dewatering tank 1 by the lotion feeding device 18 ( The solution of the abstract) ", and" the lotion input device is a pump device that directly pumps liquid lotion (item 3 of the scope of patent application) ", and" the lotion tank is removable from the outer cover Freely remove (the scope of patent application No. 11) ".

[Xizhi technical literature] [Patent Literature]

[Patent Document 1] USP2011 / 0186098A1

[Patent Document 2] Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2000-300891

The configuration of Patent Document 1 discloses that the transfer pump provided in the lotion tank is provided with a DC motor. Further, the transfer pump is a gear pump and has control means for controlling the type and amount of the lotion to be supplied. The structure, but the appropriate reduction ratio from the DC motor to the gear pump for improving the accuracy of the conveyance volume of liquids with different viscosities is not described.

In the structure disclosed in Patent Document 2, the liquid lotion 16 in the lotion tank 17 is introduced from the lotion tank through the lotion input device 18 The detergent input device is charged into the washing and dewatering tank 1 and has a configuration of a pump device 19 that directly pumps liquid detergent, such as a scroll pump and a gear pump. The control device 10 controls the operation. However, in order to improve the accuracy when transferring liquids with different viscosities, the relationship between the appropriate reduction ratio and the supply amount from the DC motor to the gear pump is not described.

Here, an object of the present invention is to provide a washing machine that can automatically supply a lotion or a softener with high accuracy.

In order to achieve the object of the present invention, an example of the present invention includes a frame body, a water tank provided inside the frame body, and a cleaning treatment liquid supply for supplying a cleaning treatment liquid having a different viscosity from the lowest viscosity to the highest viscosity into the water tank. Means, the washing treatment liquid supply means includes a tank holding the washing treatment liquid inside, a transfer pump that transports the washing treatment liquid from the inside of the tank to the outside of the tank, and a generation pump The pump driving means of the driving force for driving the transfer pump is a gear pump, and the supply amount of the washing treatment liquid having different viscosities is substantially fixed.

According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a washing machine that can automatically supply lotions or softeners with high accuracy and high reliability.

1‧‧‧ base

2‧‧‧ frame

3‧‧‧ cover

4‧‧‧washing machine body

5‧‧‧Support

6‧‧‧ operation panel

7‧‧‧ water supply faucet

8‧‧‧ drum motor

9‧‧‧ the first water supply pipe

10‧‧‧ Drain valve

11‧‧‧ Drain pipe

12‧‧‧Water supply solenoid valve

13‧‧‧ Dry wind road

14‧‧‧The first lotion supply tube

15‧‧‧Second lotion supply tube

16‧‧‧ check valve

17‧‧‧Sink

18‧‧‧ front cover

19‧‧‧back cover

20‧‧‧Rotating roller

21‧‧‧Laundry

22‧‧‧ fluid balancer

25‧‧‧ lotion inlet

25a‧‧‧ Powder lotion input department

25b‧‧‧Liquid lotion input department

25c‧‧‧Softener input department

29‧‧‧ Driving force connection means

30‧‧‧Automatic input means for washing treatment liquid

31‧‧‧Tank lid body

32‧‧‧ lotion tank (first tank)

33‧‧‧ Softener tank (second tank)

34‧‧‧ Tank Storage Container

35‧‧‧ the first next door

36‧‧‧ Next door

37‧‧‧Lotion tank storage area

38‧‧‧ Softener tank storage area

39‧‧‧ Input fields

40‧‧‧Second water supply pipe

41‧‧‧Second lotion supply tube

42‧‧‧ support shaft hole

42a‧‧‧ Fulcrum

43‧‧‧ cover support

44‧‧‧ Tank cover

44a‧‧‧Slot bucket handle

45‧‧‧Tank barrel body

46‧‧‧ bottom surface of tank

47‧‧‧Pump means

48‧‧‧ Suction port

49‧‧‧pump housing

50‧‧‧ Suction tube

51‧‧‧Gear Pump

51a‧‧‧Drive gear

51b‧‧‧ driven gear

52‧‧‧Gear engaging part

53‧‧‧Pump cover

54‧‧‧Supply tube

55‧‧‧ gear pump wall

56‧‧‧ Spit Out

57‧‧‧Water supply spouting unit

58‧‧‧Filter

59‧‧‧Slit

60‧‧‧pump drive shaft

61‧‧‧ coupler

62‧‧‧Driving means

63‧‧‧ coupling protrusion

64‧‧‧Couple receiving department

65‧‧‧ supply motor

65a‧‧‧ lotion supply motor

65b‧‧‧softener supply motor

66‧‧‧ Slowdown

67‧‧‧ Worm

68‧‧‧ cylindrical recess

69‧‧‧ meshing protrusion

70‧‧‧worm gear

71‧‧‧first reduction gear

72‧‧‧Swing groove

73‧‧‧Swing gear

74a‧‧‧first mesh

74b‧‧‧Second mesh

74c‧‧‧Third mesh

75d‧‧‧ fourth mesh

75‧‧‧first pump drive gear

76‧‧‧Second pump drive gear

77‧‧‧rotation center axis

78‧‧‧ Third reduction gear

79‧‧‧ residual detection methods

79a‧‧‧ lotion residue detection method

79b‧‧‧Softener Residue Detection Method

80‧‧‧Light-emitting element

81‧‧‧ light receiving element

82‧‧‧ Screw Pump

83‧‧‧Male Gear

84‧‧‧Mother Gear

85‧‧‧shell

86‧‧‧Handling space

87‧‧‧Wiring

88‧‧‧ supplementary mouth

89‧‧‧Siphon

90‧‧‧ Fulcrum

91‧‧‧pump driven shaft

92‧‧‧sealing member

93‧‧‧ Water supply means

94‧‧‧ fixed support

95‧‧‧ side guide of tank

96‧‧‧ Tank lid open handle

97‧‧‧Handle Pivot

98‧‧‧ supply cover support shaft

99‧‧‧ supply cover

100‧‧‧ refers to the hook

101‧‧‧ pinion gear

102‧‧‧Fast-turn gear

103‧‧‧Fast-turn gear center

104‧‧‧buoy

105‧‧‧Magnet

106‧‧‧ Buoy Guide

107‧‧‧ Magnetic Sensor

108‧‧‧ extension

109‧‧‧ weight sensor

110‧‧‧ sliding cover

111‧‧‧ Connection Department

112‧‧‧Connecting Link

113‧‧‧ connecting rod fulcrum

114‧‧‧ pivot point

115‧‧‧Swing cover

116‧‧‧Mounting bolt

117‧‧‧Guide groove

118‧‧‧Third lotion supply pipe

[FIG. 1] A perspective view of a washing machine according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

[FIG. 2] A front view of a washing machine according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

3 is a plan view of a washing machine according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

[Fig. 4] A-A sectional view of Fig. 3 of the washing machine according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[FIG. 5] A perspective view showing a configuration of a washing treatment liquid automatic feeding means according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

Fig. 6 is a perspective view showing a configuration of a washing treatment liquid tank barrel according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[FIG. 7] A B-B cross-sectional view showing the configuration of a washing treatment liquid automatic feeding means according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

Fig. 8 is a perspective view showing a configuration of a pump unit of the automatic washing treatment liquid charging means according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[FIG. 9] A configuration of a pump unit according to the first embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 8 is a sectional view taken along the line C-C.

[Fig. 10] A sectional view taken along the line D-D of Fig. 8 showing the automatic washing treatment liquid feeding means according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[FIG. 11] A plan view of a washing treatment liquid automatic feeding means according to a first embodiment of the present invention, showing a state in which a motor is forwardly rotated from a lotion tank to supply lotion.

[Fig. 12] A plan view of a washing treatment liquid automatic feeding means according to a first embodiment of the present invention, showing a state where the motor is supplied from the softener tank and the softener is reversed.

[Fig. 13] A schematic diagram showing an example of a remaining amount detecting means of the washing treatment liquid according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[Fig. 14] A side view showing an example of a remaining amount detecting means of the washing treatment liquid according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

15 is a block diagram showing a configuration of a control circuit of a washing machine according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

16 is a control flowchart showing the operation of the washing machine according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[Fig. 17] A side view showing a schematic configuration of a washing treatment liquid automatic charging means according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

[Fig. 18] A plan view showing a configuration of a washing treatment liquid automatic feeding means according to a third embodiment of the present invention.

[Fig. 19] Fig. 19 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line E-E of Fig. 13 showing the configuration of an automatic washing treatment liquid charging means according to a third embodiment of the present invention.

[Fig. 20] A perspective view showing a configuration of a pump unit of an automatic washing treatment liquid charging means according to a third embodiment of the present invention.

[Fig. 21] Fig. 21 is a sectional view taken along the line F-F of Fig. 20, showing a configuration of a pump unit of the automatic washing-solution-liquid charging means according to the third embodiment of the present invention.

[Fig. 22] Fig. 22 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line E-E of Fig. 13 showing a configuration of an automatic washing treatment liquid charging means according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention.

[Fig. 23] Fig. 23 is a B-B cross-sectional view showing a configuration of a washing treatment liquid automatic feeding means according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention.

[FIG. 24] A B-B cross-sectional view showing the configuration of a washing treatment liquid automatic feeding means according to a sixth embodiment of the present invention.

[FIG. 25] A perspective view of a washing machine according to a seventh embodiment of the present invention.

[FIG. 26] A front view of a washing machine according to a seventh embodiment of the present invention.

27 is a plan view of a washing machine according to a seventh embodiment of the present invention.

[Fig. 28] A sectional view taken along the line G-G of Fig. 27 of a washing machine according to a seventh embodiment of the present invention.

[Fig. 29] A perspective view in the J direction showing the configuration of a washing treatment liquid automatic feeding means according to a seventh embodiment of the present invention.

[FIG. 30] A configuration (a) of a plan view and (b) a rear view of a configuration of an automatic washing treatment liquid feeding means according to a seventh embodiment of the present invention.

[Fig. 31] A perspective view in the P direction showing the structure of a washing treatment tank according to a seventh embodiment of the present invention.

[Fig. 32] A sectional view taken along the line K-K, showing the configuration of the automatic washing-solution-liquid feeding means according to the seventh embodiment of the present invention.

[Fig. 33] A perspective view showing a configuration of a pump unit of an automatic washing treatment liquid charging means according to a seventh embodiment of the present invention.

[FIG. 34] A configuration of a pump unit according to a seventh embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 33 is a sectional view taken along the line M-M.

[FIG. 35] A configuration of a pump unit according to a seventh embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 34 is a sectional view taken along the line N-N in FIG. 34.

[FIG. 36] A schematic explanatory diagram showing the relationship between the viscosity of the washing treatment liquid and the accuracy of the supply amount of the washing treatment liquid automatic feeding means according to the seventh embodiment of the present invention.

[Fig. 37] A seventh embodiment of the automatic washing treatment liquid feeding means according to the present invention shows a reduction in driving force transmission means from a motor to a gear pump. A schematic explanatory diagram of the relationship between the speed ratio and the supply amount accuracy.

[Fig. 38] A schematic longitudinal sectional view showing the structure of a washing treatment tank according to an eighth embodiment of the present invention.

[Fig. 39] A schematic longitudinal cross-sectional view showing the configuration of a washing treatment tank according to a ninth embodiment of the present invention.

[Fig. 40] A schematic longitudinal cross-sectional view showing the configuration of a washing treatment liquid tank of a tenth embodiment of the present invention.

41 is a block diagram showing a configuration of a control circuit of a washing machine according to an eleventh embodiment of the present invention.

[FIG. 42] A control flowchart showing the operation of the washing machine according to the eleventh embodiment of the present invention.

[Fig. 43] A perspective view in the J direction showing the configuration of the automatic washing treatment liquid charging means according to the twelfth embodiment of the present invention.

[Fig. 44] A schematic longitudinal sectional view showing a configuration of a washing treatment liquid automatic charging means according to a twelfth embodiment of the present invention.

[FIG. 45] A schematic longitudinal cross-sectional view showing the configuration of a washing treatment liquid automatic feeding means according to a thirteenth embodiment of the present invention.

[FIG. 46] A control flowchart showing the operation of a washing machine according to a fourteenth embodiment of the present invention.

Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

[First embodiment]

Fig. 1 is a perspective view showing a washing machine according to a first embodiment of the present invention. Fig. 2 is a front view showing a part of the internal structure with the front cover 18 virtually removed. FIG. 3 is a plan view, and FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line A-A in FIG. 3. For the sake of explanation, the water tank, that is, the cylindrical water tank 17 and a part of the rotary drum 20 are virtually broken. In the following description, the directions of up, down, left, right, forward, backward, and forward are based on the directions of up, down, left, right, forward, and backward as shown in FIG. 1.

An outer frame 2 composed of a steel plate and a resin molded product in an upper portion of the base 1 is placed and becomes a washing machine body 4. On the front surface of the outer frame 2, there are provided a door 3 for accessing the laundry 21, that is, the cover body 3 and the front cover 18, and a rear surface cover 19 is provided on the rear surface.

A part of the front side of the upper surface of the outer frame 2 is provided with, for example, a switch for selecting an on / off operation of the power supply, washing, and drying, and an operation panel 6 of a display type. The other part is provided to be openable and closable.的 lotion input 25.

The water supply faucet 7 is provided on the upper surface near the back surface of the washing machine body 4, and a water pipe is connected to supply water to the washing machine body 4.

Since the configuration is the same as that of a conventional washing machine or washer-dryer, detailed description is omitted.

<Lotion input port>

The lotion inlet 25 is provided with, for example, a powder lotion input portion 25a, a liquid lotion input portion 25b, and a softener input portion 25c. The powder lotion, the softener, or the liquid lotion can be charged once. Agent. Towards lotion The powdered lotion, softening agent, or liquid lotion put into the inlet 25 is fed with water through the first water supply pipe 9 at a predetermined point in the washing process, and is put into the water tank 17 together with water through the first lotion supply pipe 14.

<Structure of the main body>

In the base 1, the water tank 17 is elastically supported by a supporting means 5 including a spring and an attenuator.

A cylindrical rotating rotary drum 20 for washing and dewatering is provided in the inside of the water tank 17 for washing and dehydration. The front end of the rotary drum 20 is provided with a plurality of layers concentrically provided inside to shut off the fluid. The fluid balancer 22 reduces the vibration of the rotating drum 20 caused by the imbalance of the laundry 21 by rotating integrally with the rotating drum 20. The rotary drum 20 has a plurality of small holes (not shown) for centrifugal dehydration on the side wall, and is rotated by the drum motor 8.

<Drain valve>

The drain pipe 11 is connected to the bottom surface of the water tank 17 through the drain valve 10 and can drain the wash water in the water tank 17. Furthermore, in the case of a washer-dryer having a drying function, the drying air path 13 is connected to the water tank 17 to exhaust the humid air in the water tank 17, and is provided by a drying means (for example, a heater and a ventilation means) (not shown). Let dry.

<Water supply solenoid valve>

Powder lotion, softener, or When the liquid lotion is supplied into the water tank 17, the water supply solenoid valve 12 is opened. From the water supply faucet 7 through the first water supply pipe 9 connecting the water supply solenoid valve 12 and the lotion inlet 25, tap water is directed toward the lotion inlet. For example, the liquid detergent input portion 25b among 25 indicates that the liquid detergent is melted by feeding water, descends from the detergent input port 25, and is supplied to the inside of the water tank 17 through the first detergent supply pipe 14 connected to the water tank 17.

<Check valve>

A check valve 16 is provided near the water tank 17 of the first lotion supply pipe 14, and the lotion liquid flowing from the lotion inlet 25 toward the water tank 17 can pass, but can be suppressed to the contrary: when the pressure in the water tank 17 rises, In the case where the water tank 17 faces the lotion inlet 25 or high-humidity air passes in the case of the washer-dryer.

<Automatic feeding means for washing treatment liquid>

The washing machine main body 4 is provided with a washing treatment liquid automatic feeding means 30 described later in detail, and an openable and closable tank lid body 31 is provided on the washing machine main body 4. At least one or more washing treatment tanks are provided in the lower part of the tank lid body 31. One example is to set the washing treatment tanks to two types. On the other hand, the tank has a capacity capable of holding multiple washing cycles. The other lotion tank 32 is a lotion tank 33 having a capacity, such as a softener, which can hold an amount capable of being washed several times.

In a state where the tank lid body 31 is opened, the lotion tank 32 and the softener tank 33 can be directed from the opening where the tank cover 31 is opened. Remove from the top and reassemble.

In the following, when a common configuration of the softener tank 33 and the lotion tank 32 is described, there may be a case where the common configuration is referred to as a "tank tank".

<Upper configuration of automatic washing treatment liquid feeding means>

In this embodiment, since the automatic washing treatment liquid feeding means 30 is provided on the washing machine main body 4, a user who does not need to bend down for loading and unloading of the washing treatment liquid tank can provide a washing machine that is easy to use. In addition, since both the lotion inlet 25 and the automatic washing treatment liquid injection means 30 are disposed on the left side of the upper surface of the washing machine main body 4 in a coherent position, the user's convenience is further improved. In addition, when the automatic washing treatment liquid feeding means 30 is disposed at a lower side than the water tank 17, water may flow backward from the pipe connecting the automatic washing treatment liquid feeding means 30 and the water tank 17 toward the automatic treatment liquid feeding means 30. In this embodiment, since the automatic washing treatment liquid feeding means 30 is disposed on the upper side than the water tank 17, such a backflow is not possible, and a highly reliable washing machine can be provided. Furthermore, since the automatic washing treatment liquid feeding means 30 can be inserted and removed from the upper surface of the washing machine main body 4 in the up-down direction, the usability is improved.

<The lid is opened on the rear side>

In the present embodiment, the tank lid 31 is pivotally supported around the pivot fulcrum around the rear side, that is, the lid fulcrum 42a, and is pivotably supported, and the front side is lifted toward the rear side. Make up. Put the tank cover The opening opened at 31 is in a state where three sides of the front side and the left and right sides are opened. Therefore, when inserting the hands from the opening to remove the buckets 32 and 33 upward, either of the left and right hands Since it does not come into contact with the open tank lid body 31, it is easy to insert, and it is possible to provide a washing machine that is easy to remove the tanks 32 and 33 and is easy to use.

When the tank lid 31 is opened, the angle is larger than 90 °, for example, about 100 °, because the center of gravity of the tank lid 31 is moved rearward than the rotation fulcrum, it is stable and optimal in the opened state. .

<Details of Automatic Feeding Method for Washing Treatment Liquid>

Using FIG. 5 to FIG. 12, the automatic washing treatment liquid feeding means 30 of this embodiment will be described. FIG. 5 is a perspective view showing the structure of the automatic washing treatment liquid injection means 30 in the present embodiment, FIG. 6 is a perspective view showing the structure of the washing treatment liquid tank and FIG. 7 is a configuration showing the automatic washing treatment liquid input means 30 Fig. 8 is a perspective view showing the structure of a pump unit of the automatic washing treatment liquid feeding means 30. Fig. 9 is a CC sectional view of Fig. 8, Fig. 10 is a DD sectional view, and Fig. 11 is a view showing Top view of automatic washing treatment liquid feeding means, with the motor being turned forward from the lotion tank 32 to supply lotion. Figure 12 is a top view showing automatic washing treatment liquid feeding means, reversing the motor from softener tank and supplied with softener. status.

<Storage container>

The tank storage container 34 has a substantially box shape with its upper surface opened, and In the washing machine body 4, the lotion tank 32 and the softener tank 33 can be stored. The lotion tank 32 and the softener tank 33 are each provided with a lotion tank storage area 37 and a softener tank storage area 38 divided by the first partition wall 35 in the front-rear direction. The left side of the tank storage container 34 is provided with an input area 39 separated from the lotion tank storage area 37 and the softener tank storage area 38 by the second partition wall 36. In the rear side of the input area 39, one end is connected to the other end of the second water supply pipe 40 of the water supply solenoid valve 12, and when the water supply solenoid valve 12 is opened, the water is directed into the input area 39 through the second water supply pipe 40. Was watered.

One end of the second lotion supply pipe 41 is connected to the lower surface of the input area 39, and the other end of the second lotion supply pipe 41 is connected to the first lotion supply pipe 14. In other words, the lotion or softener that is injected into the input field 39 has a configuration in which the water and the water to be fed flow out into the first lotion supply pipe 14 through the second lotion supply pipe 41.

Detergents and softeners are supplied at different time points in the water tanks 17. As described in detail later, the lotion is supplied during the washing process, and the softener is supplied during the final washing process. After the lotion is supplied to the inside of the input area 39, the inside of the input area 39 is cleaned by water supply. Therefore, even if the softener is supplied into the same input area 39, the lotion does not remain and is mixed with the softener. Therefore, only one input area 39 is required, and the water supply spout 57 and the second water supply pipe 40 for supplying water to the input basin 39 do not need to be provided with lotions and softeners separately, so the structure can be simple and optimal. .

Above the rear part of the tub storage container 34, A cover support portion 43 of a support shaft hole 42 for shaft support which can be opened and closed is described later.

<Tank bucket>

In the tank storage container 34, two washing treatment liquid tanks are arranged side by side in the front-rear direction, a softener tank 33 is provided in the front, and a lotion tank 32 is provided in the rear. The softener tank 33 and the lotion tank 32 are arranged approximately symmetrically back and forth with the first partition wall 35 pinched. One example is that if the size of the lotion tank 32 in the front-back direction is larger than the size of the softener tank 33 in the front-back direction, the capacity of the lotion tank 32 may be larger than that of the softener tank 33.

The lotion tank 32 and the softener tank 33 are approximately front-rear symmetrical shapes that hold the first partition wall 35. Since they have the same structure except that the dimensions in the front-back direction are different, the washing will be described in detail with reference to FIGS. 6 to 9. The structure of the agent tank 32.

In this embodiment, the lotion tank 32 is detachably divided from the upper tank cover portion 44 and the lower tank body 45 in two ways. The tank cover portion 44 is used in the case of replenishing the lotion or washing the lotion. When the inside of the tub 32 is cleaned, it is configured to be removed from the tub main body 45 by releasing a lock means (not shown). The tank lid portion 44 is provided with a tank handle 44 a for holding by hand when the lotion tank 32 is detached.

When a predetermined amount of lotion is replenished to the lotion tank 32, the liquid level of the lotion is configured to have a maximum capacity at a lower height than the boundary between the tank body 45 and the tank lid portion 44 because The lotion does not leak from the boundary of the tank body 45 and the tank cover portion 44 toward the lotion tank 32 Out of all the best.

When the tub body 45 is formed of a transparent resin such as acrylic resin or polyethylene terephthalate (PET) resin, when the lotion tank 32 or the softener tank 33 is removed from the washing machine body 4, The remaining amount of lotion or softener can be visually confirmed, so it is optimal.

The tank bottom surface 46 of the tank body 45 is formed in an approximately V shape, and the suction port 48 of the pump means 47 described later is provided at a lower portion of the bottom surface, because the lotion in the tank can be finally It is inhaled until it is unnecessary, so unnecessary waste of lotion is not generated and is optimal.

<Long slot tank>

The lotion tank 32 and the softener tank 33 are configured to have the smallest depth among the depth in the front-rear direction, the width in the left-right direction, and the height in the up-down direction. With this structure, since the area where the lotion or softener inside the tank contacts the air in the tank can be reduced, the water evaporates from the surface of the lotion or softener, which increases the viscosity of the surface and solidifies. It has the smallest effect that the supply operation by the pump means 47 described later can be performed reliably.

<Front and rear configuration and depth of tank>

The optimal relationship of the arrangement, size, and volume of the lotion tank 32 and the softener tank 33 will be described. It is explained here that the capacity of the lotion tank 32 is larger and better than the capacity of the softener tank 33. This is, for example, the sizes of containers of commercially available lotions and softeners, and those sold as supplements. The sales unit is the case where the lotion is larger than the softener.

In the present embodiment, as shown in FIG. 4, the water tank 17 is higher on the cover 3 side in the front, and is arranged obliquely as it lowers toward the rear. In this case, the gap between the upper surface of the water tank 17 and the washing machine body 4 becomes smaller as it goes forward, and becomes larger as it goes backward. Therefore, when the lotion tank 32 and the softener tank 33 are juxtaposed in the front-rear direction, it is best to arrange a tank with a large capacity at the rear because the depth in the vertical direction can be increased. A tank with a small depth and a small capacity is arranged on the front side. In this embodiment, a lotion tank 32 is arranged on the back, and a softener tank 33 is arranged on the front.

Moreover, since the water tank 17 is cylindrical, the gap between the water tank 17 and the upper surface of the washing machine body 4 becomes larger as it approaches the left and right ends, and becomes smaller near the center. Here, when the lotion tank 32 and the softener tank 33 are juxtaposed in the left-right direction, a tank with a small capacity (softener tank 33) is disposed near the center, and the capacity is disposed at the end of the frame. Large tanks (lotion tank 32) are preferred. With this configuration, the height of the tank (lotion tank 32) placed on the end side is higher than that of the tank (softener tank 33) located near the center, because the lotion of the lotion tank 32 The capacity is further expanded so it is optimal.

<Pump>

The tank lid portion 44 is provided with a pump means 47 for sucking the washing treatment liquid from the tank main body 45 into the aforementioned charging area 39. In this embodiment, a configuration of a gear pump using an example of the pump means 47 is used.

The pump means 47 in this embodiment is provided with: Inside the substantially cylindrical lotion tank 32, a pump casing 49 extending downward from the tank cover portion 44; and a suction tube extending further downward from the bottom surface of the pump casing 49, with its lower end approaching the bottom surface of the tank body 45 50. The lower end of the suction pipe 50 is a suction port 48 which is opened.

As shown in FIG. 9, at the lower end of the pump casing 49, one is a drive gear 51 a rotatably supported by the pump drive shaft 60 and the other is rotatable around the pump driven shaft 91. The gear pump 51 constituted by a pair of gears of the driven gear 51b freely supported by the shaft can rotate while meshing, and can transport the lotion from one of the gear meshing portions 52 to the other.

The upper end of the suction pipe 50 is connected to one side of the gear meshing portion 52, and the lotion can be sucked through the suction port 48.

A supply pipe 54 is provided on the other side of the gear meshing portion 52 along the pump casing 49. The lower end of the supply pipe 54 is connected to the other side of the gear meshing portion 52, and the lotion sent from the gear pump 51 is provided. Be supplied.

The gear pump 51 rotates in the direction of the arrow to fill the space formed by the gap between the adjacent teeth of the driving gear 51a and the driven gear 51b and the gear pump wall 55 provided near the outer periphery of the gear. The suction port 48 side is moved toward the supply pipe 54 side, and the lotion is supplied. Since the operation of the gear pump 51 is generally known, detailed description is omitted.

The upper end of the pump casing 49 is a pump cover 53 which covers the upper surface of the pump means 47.

The upper end of the supply pipe 54 extends substantially horizontally in the direction of the separation pump cover 53, and the tip end thereof extends downward, and the tip end thereof forms a lotion discharge port 56 which opens downward.

<Spit cleaning>

The second water supply pipe 40 is connected to discharge water from a water supply discharge portion 57 provided on the side of the input area 39 of the tank storage container 34. The water supply discharge portion 57 is disposed near the discharge outlet 56. If the water supplied from the water supply discharge portion 57 flows to the discharge outlet 56, the lotion or softener attached to the discharge outlet 56 does not dry and solidify, so the lotion No clogging with softeners and high reliability.

The optimal position of the water supply discharge part 57 is demonstrated. If the height of the water supply discharge portion 57 is close to the second partition wall 36, the discharged water will pass through the second partition wall 36 and flow into the lotion tank storage area 37 or the softener tank storage area 38. On the other hand, if the height of the water supply spout 57 is too close to the bottom surface, the spouted water will not flow to the spout 56 so that the spout 56 cannot be cleaned, and the lotion and the detergent adhered to the wall surface of the input area 39 cannot be cleaned. Wash with softener. Therefore, it is preferable that the water supply discharge portion 57 is provided near the discharge opening 56 and at a position lower than the second partition wall 36.

Another example of the optimal position of the water supply discharge part 57 is demonstrated. It is preferable that the water supply discharge portion 57 is provided at a position higher than the discharge outlet 56. Thereby, the water discharged from the water supply discharge part 57 can be reliably flowed to the discharge opening 56, and the solidification of the lotion or softening agent of the discharge outlet 56 can be suppressed, and reliability can be improved. Further, the water discharged from the water supply discharge unit 57 may be sprayed. To. This can suppress the solidification of the lotion or the softener of the discharge port 56 and improve the reliability.

In addition, since the water supply discharge portion 57 is connected to the second water supply pipe 40, water is supplied to the second water supply pipe 40 each time, and the water discharged from the water supply discharge portion 57 is discharged toward the discharge outlet 56. Therefore, the discharge outlet can be more suppressed. 56 lotion or softener curing. In addition, since a dedicated water supply path for cleaning the spout outlet 56 is unnecessary, water saving is improved.

<Gear pump height>

In this embodiment, when the remaining amount of the lotion or softener is small, the lotion or softener is attracted by the negative pressure from the suction port 48 near the bottom surface of each tank 32, 33 to the gear pump 51 . If the suction height is large, it is difficult to attract lotions or softeners. Therefore, the height of the gear pump 51 is preferably close to the bottom surface. On the other hand, in a configuration in which the height of the gear pump 51 is close to the bottom surface, the volume of the lotion or softener sinking into the pump casing 49 becomes large, so the tank capacity of the lotion or softener decreases. Here, the height of the gear pump 51 near the middle of the tank bottom surface 46 and the tank cover portion 44 can reduce the height from the suction port 48 to the gear pump 51 provided near the bottom surface of the pump casing 49. , And because the capacity of the lotion or softener can be ensured, so the best.

Furthermore, the height of the gear pump 51 is lower than the liquid level when the lotion or softener is replenished toward the lotion tank 32 or the softener tank 33. When the lotion or softener is replenished, The gear pump 51 is in a state of being immersed in a lotion or softener, that is, a state of "starting water". That is, it is not necessary to suck the lotion or softener up to the height of the gear pump 51 due to the negative pressure of the air. Therefore, the lotion or the softener can be supplied reliably and optimally.

When the gear pump 51 is provided close to the bottom surfaces of the tanks 32 and 33, the liquid level of the lotion or softener is always higher than that of the gear pump 51, so it is optimal to supply the lotion or softener reliably.

<Filter structure>

In the present embodiment, a filter 58 is provided which enlarges the lower end of the suction port 48 near the bottom surface of the tanks 32 and 33. The filter 58 has, for example, a circular plate shape, and a plurality of slits 59 having a width of, for example, approximately 0.5 mm are provided on the filter 58. Since the filter 58 is provided close to the tank bottom surface 46 of the tanks 32 and 33, the lotion in the lotion input port 25 passes through the slit and reaches the suction port 48 provided in the substantially central portion of the filter 58. The gear pump 51 is attracted. Because of this structure, when foreign matter is mixed into the lotion or softener, it can be captured by the slit 59 of the filter 58. Therefore, foreign matter does not enter the gear pump 51 from the suction port 48 through the suction pipe 50, so it is possible. It is possible to prevent the foreign matter from being clogged in the gear pump section, and to provide a highly reliable automatic washing treatment liquid injection means 30.

<Pump drive section>

A configuration for driving the driving gear 51a will be described. As shown in FIG. 7 or FIG. 8, the pump driving shaft 60 is rotatably supported by the pump casing 49 and the pump cover 53. The driving gear 51 a is fixed to the lower end of the pump driving shaft 60. The upper end of the drive shaft 60 is more protruded than the upper surface of the pump housing 49, and the coupling 61 is fixed to the pump drive shaft 60 so as to be rotatable integrally therewith. The coupling 61 is configured to transmit a rotational driving force from a driving means 62 provided in a tank lid 31 described later.

That is, when the coupling 61 is rotated by the driving means 62, the gear pump 51 rotates through the pump drive shaft 60, and the lotion in the lotion tank 32 is sucked from the suction port 48 by the action of the gear pump 51. The transmission through the gear pump 51 and the supply pipe 54 from the discharge port 56. The lotion sent out from the discharge port 56 is an input area 39 supplied to the tank storage container 34.

<Connector>

The coupler 61 is formed in a substantially cylindrical shape, and the upper end of the coupler 61 has a tapered shape with a tapered surface at the tip. In the plurality of places on the outer periphery of the coupler 61, in this embodiment, coupler protrusions 63 that are convex toward the outer periphery are provided at three places every 120 °. In the upper portion of the coupler 61, the coupler protrusion 63 also has a thinner apex shape along the conical surface in a conical portion with a thinner apex.

<Cover body, driving means>

The tank cover 31 is pivotably supported around the pivot shaft hole 42 provided in the cover support part 43. The tank cover 31 is provided with a supply motor 65 for a driving means 62, Equipped with gear reduction mechanism 66 and meshing with coupling 61 to transmit driving force to coupling 61 的 连接 器 接 部 64。 The connector receiving portion 64. The driving force generated by the supply motor 65 is decelerated to a suitable rotation speed by a reduction means 66 composed of, for example, a worm 67 and a reduction gear train including a plurality of flat gears, and the coupling receiving portion 64 is rotated. The coupler receiving portion 64 is provided in a 2 type, and when the tank lid 31 is closed, a coupler 61 (a lotion supply coupling) provided in the lotion tank 32 and a softener tank are separately provided. The coupling 61 (coupling agent for softener supply) of 33 is arranged to be fitted and engaged. The coupler 61 and the coupler protrusion 63 are thinner at the tip, which becomes thinner as they move upwards. Therefore, when the tank lid 31 is closed, the coupler receiving portion 64 is fitted to the coupler 61, so that they will not be connected to each other. The contact is stuck and can be fitted smoothly.

<Coupling receiving section>

The inner periphery of the coupling receiving portion 64 is a cylindrical recessed portion 68 having a diameter larger than that of the outer periphery of the coupling protrusion 63 provided on the outer periphery of the coupling 61, and the inner circumferential side of the cylindrical recessed portion 68 is provided to be convex toward the center. Meshing projection 69. In this embodiment, the engaging projections 69 are provided at a total of 6 positions every 60 °, and the inner peripheral diameter of the engaging projections 69 is larger than the diameter of the coupling 61.

That is, the dimensional relationship of the coupler 61 can be fitted into the inside of the coupler receiving portion 64, and the coupler projection 63 is connected by the adjacent protrusions 69 arranged in the coupler receiving portion 64. The device protrusion 63 and the engagement protrusion 69 do not interfere with each other.

<Coupling engagement>

FIG. 10 is a DD cross-sectional view showing a state in which the coupling 61 is fitted inside the coupling receiving portion 64. The coupling receiving portion 64 is rotated counterclockwise as shown in the figure. The engaging projection 69 is connected to the coupling projection 63. The contacting state transmits the driving force from the coupler receiving portion 64 to the coupler 61 while the coupler 61 is rotationally driven.

The coupling 61 and the coupling receiving portion 64 are detachable from each other, and a driving force coupling means 29 capable of transmitting a rotational driving force when fitted to each other.

Coupling protrusions 63 are provided at three positions every 120 ° on the outer periphery of the coupler 61, and engagement protrusions 69 are provided at a total of six positions every 60 ° on the inner periphery of the coupling receiving portion 64. As for the number of coupler protrusions 63 provided on the outer periphery of the coupler 61, twice the number of engagement protrusions 69 are provided on the inner periphery of the coupler receiving portion 64, because the coupler protrusions 63 can be arranged adjacently. Between the engagement projections 69 of the two, the fitting of the coupling 61 and the coupling receiving portion 64 is sure and optimal.

When the tank lid 31 is closed, the coupling 61 and the coupling receiving portion 64 are fitted, and then the power is supplied to the supply motor 65 to rotate the coupling receiving portion 64. Then, the engagement protrusion 69 is in contact with the coupling protrusion 63 as shown in FIG. The connector receiving portion 64 has been idling until the state, and the rear connector 61 is rotated together with the connector receiving portion 64. The maximum value of this idling angle is Φ in FIG. 10. In this embodiment, only the circumferential direction of the engaging protrusion 69 and the coupling protrusion 63 is smaller than the angle of the adjacent engaging protrusion 69, that is, 60 degrees. Angle of thickness points. This angle Φ means that when the tank lid 31 is closed, the gear pump 51 is located even when the supply motor 65 is energized. The angle of non-rotation is the error in the amount of lotion or softener supplied, but the angle is at most 60 °. The ratio of the error in the amount of lotion or softener used in a single washing process is too small. The extent to which it can be a problem.

With the above configuration, when the openable and closable tank lid 31 is closed, the supply motor 65 is rotationally driven, and the gear pump 51 is rotationally driven through the coupling receiving portion 64 and the coupling 61, so that the tank can be rotated. The lotion in the tubs 32 and 33 is supplied to the input area 39 provided in the tub storage container 34.

In the present embodiment, the tank lid body 31 having the driving means 62 is rotatably supported around the fulcrum 90 above the lotion tank 32 and the softener tank 33. By rotating the tank cover 31 around the fulcrum, the coupling 61 and the coupling receiving portion 64 are separated, and the upper surfaces of the lotion tank 32 and the softener tank 33 can be opened. Therefore, it is not necessary to move the lotion tank 32 and the softener tank 33 in order to separate the connection of the driving system, because the lotion tank 32 and the softener tank 33 can be turned toward The upper part is pulled out, so it is easy to replenish the lotion and softener and clean the tank.

<Cover hinge wiring>

The tub lid 31 is openable and closable, and is provided with a wiring 87 from a drive circuit 154 provided in the washing machine body 4 to a supply motor 65. The path for inserting the wiring 87 from the washing machine body 4 to the inside of the tub lid body 31 is to pass the wiring 87 through the opening and closing rotation center of the tub lid body 31, which is also the pivot hole. 42 is best. Even if the tub lid body 31 is opened and closed, the wiring 87 can only be twisted in an opening-closing angle range without being stretched. Therefore, the reliability of the wiring 87 is ensured, and a highly reliable washing machine can be provided.

<Cap size and tank loading and unloading>

The size of the opening when the tank lid 31 is opened is larger than that of the lotion tank 32 and the softener tank 33 juxtaposed from the top, that is, the opening can be made from the time when the tank lid 31 is opened. Removal and installation dimensions of the lotion tank 32 and the softener tank 33.

Because of the above structure, when the tank lid body 31 is opened, the driving force connecting means 29, that is, the coupler 61 and the coupling receiving portion 64 are separated from each other. As long as the tank lid body 31 is opened from the opening, the lotion is removed. The tank 32 and the softener tank 33 are pulled upward, and the lotion tank 32 and the softener tank 33 can be easily removed.

On the contrary, the lotion tank 32 and the softener tank 33 can be easily installed from above through the opening when the tank cover 31 is opened.

Thereafter, when the tank lid 31 is closed, the coupling receiving portion 64 and the coupling 61 are fitted, and the driving force from the supply motor 65 can be transmitted to the pump means 47 to drive the gear pump 51, and each of the lotion or the softener can be driven. It is supplied into the water tank 17 from the lotion tank 32 or the softener tank 33 via the first lotion supply pipe 14.

<Quantitative supply>

As is known, the gear pump 51 is a fixed displacement pump, and the fluid supply amount is The number of rotations of the wheel is proportional. That is, when only a predetermined amount of lotion is supplied, for example, the rotation speed of the supply motor 65 is determined by setting the voltage applied to the supply motor 65 to a constant level, and the gear is adjusted by adjusting the driving time of the supply motor 65 to a predetermined time. When the number of rotations becomes a predetermined value, a desired amount of lotion can be supplied.

One example of the supply motor 65 is a DC motor, and by applying a constant voltage to the supply motor 65, the rotation speed can be set to a predetermined speed and constant. Alternatively, the supply motor 65 may be a stepping motor, and the frequency of the pulses applied to the supply motor 65 may be set to a constant speed so that the rotation speed may be a predetermined speed.

<Switching action>

Next, an example of a configuration in which the supply of the lotion and the supply of the softener is switched will be described using FIGS. 11 and 12. Figures 11 and 12 are plan views showing the automatic washing treatment liquid feeding means 30, showing the perspective from the tank lid 31 to the lotion tank 32 and the softener tank 33, which are provided on the tank lid An example of the structure of the driving means 62 of 31. In this embodiment, since the rotation direction of the supply motor 65 is reversed to the normal rotation and the reverse rotation, the lotion and the softening agent can be selectively supplied separately, so the configuration and operation will be described.

<Lotion supply>

FIG. 11 shows the state where the supply motor 65 is operated in the forward direction to supply the lotion, and FIG. 12 is the state where the supply motor 65 is operated in the reverse direction Operation, the state of supplying softener.

In FIG. 11, the worm 67 is a rotation shaft provided on the supply motor 65, and the worm wheel 70 rotatably supported by the shaft is meshed with the worm 67 to reduce the rotation of the supply motor 65 to the worm gear 70. In the first reduction gear 71 provided coaxially with the worm gear 70, the second gear which is rotatably rotatable and the rotation central axis 77 is movably supported along the swing groove 72, that is, the swing gear 73 is engaged in the first mesh. 74a. The center of rotation of the swing gear 73 is located at one end of the first pump driving gear 75 near the swing groove 72 and meshes with the first pump driving gear 75. As shown in FIG. 8, the first pump driving gear 75 is configured to rotate integrally with the coupling receiving portion 64. In FIG. 11, the worm gear 70, the swing gear 73, and the first pump driving gear 75 are directed in the direction of the arrow in the figure. The pump means 47 provided in the lotion tank 32 is rotationally driven, and the lotion is supplied to the input area 39.

<Softener supply>

In FIG. 12, the center of rotation of the swing gear 73 is located at the other end of the swing groove 72 and meshes with the third reduction gear 78. The third reduction gear 78 is further meshed with the second pump driving gear 76. The second pump driving gear 76 is configured to rotate integrally with the coupling receiving portion 64 in the same manner as the first pump driving gear 75. In FIG. 12, the worm gear 70, the swing gear 73, the third reduction gear 78, and the second pump driving gear Reference numeral 76 denotes that the pump means 47 provided in the softener tank 33 is driven to rotate in the direction of the arrow in the figure, and the softener is supplied to the input area 39.

<Motor forward / reverse switch>

Here, during the forward rotation shown in FIG. 11, the swing gear 73 is driven along the swing groove while receiving and rotating a force in a substantially tangential direction from the first reduction gear 71 in the first meshing 74 a toward the rotational driving direction. 72 moves and meshes with the first pump drive gear 75 by the second meshing 74b to rotate. When the supply motor 65 is reversed from this state, the first reduction gear 71 is also rotated in the reverse direction. Therefore, the swing gear 73 receives a force in a substantially tangential direction in the reverse direction from the first reduction gear 71 and runs along the swing groove at the same time as the reverse. 72 moves from one end to the other, causing the meshing with the first pump drive gear 75, that is, the second meshing 74b to fall off, and on the other hand, the third reduction gear 78 is meshed with the fourth meshing 74d to rotate (see FIG. 12) status). Since the swing gear 73 moves along the swing groove 72, the meshing with the first reduction gear 71 moves toward the third meshing 74c. Immediately after the supply motor 65 is reversed, it moves from the state of FIG. 11 to the state of FIG. 12 and rotates in the direction of the arrow shown in the figure, and the second pump drive gear 76 is rotationally driven to supply the softener from the softener tank 33.

When the supply motor 65 is rotated in the forward direction from the state shown in FIG. 12, the first reduction gear 71 is also rotated in the positive direction. Therefore, the swing gear 73 receives a force from the first reduction gear 71 in a substantially tangential direction in the positive direction. While rotating in the direction of rotation, it moves along the swing groove 72 from the other end to the other end, and the meshing with the third reduction gear 78 is lost, and on the other hand, it meshes with the first pump driving gear 75 and rotates. That is, when the supply motor 65 is rotated in the normal direction, the lotion is supplied from the lotion tank 32 from the state shown in FIG. 12 to FIG. 11.

Here, the distance between one end and the other end of the swing groove 72 is When the full swing gear 73 and the first pump drive gear 75 are meshed, the swing gear 73 and the third reduction gear 78 are separated and not meshed, and when the swing gear 73 and the third reduction gear 78 are meshed, the swing gear 73 and the first pump are driven The gear 75 may be a condition of being disengaged without meshing, and such a condition may be obtained when the distance is approximately a distance greater than the height of the teeth of the gear.

<Oscillating gear meshing>

Since the swing gear 73 moves toward the other end of the swing groove 72, the meshing position of the swing gear 73 and the first reduction gear 71 moves from the first meshing 74a to the third meshing 74c. Needless to say, because the distance between one end and the other end of the swing groove 72 is small, the distance between the first meshing 74a and the third meshing 74c is small, and the meshing state of the swing gear 73 and the first reduction gear 71 does not deteriorate.

Further, a straight line connecting the midpoints of one end and the other end of the swing groove 72 and the rotation center of the worm wheel 70 is arranged perpendicularly to the straight line connecting the one end and the other end of the swing groove 72 along the swing groove 72. Since the moving direction of the swing gear 73 is a tangential direction in which the swing gear 73 and the worm gear 70 mesh with each other, even if the swing gear 73 moves, the change in the distance between the centers of the swing gear 73 and the first reduction gear 71 is almost non-existent. optimal.

<The pump is rotating in the same direction>

Since the first pump driving gear 75 provided with the coupling 61 rotates in mesh with the swing gear 73 in the forward rotation state in FIG. 11, it is provided in the lotion. The pump drive shaft 60 of the tank 32 is rotated in a direction opposite to the swing gear 73.

On the other hand, in the reversed state of FIG. 12, the second pump driving gear 76 provided with the coupling 61 rotates from the swing gear 73 through the third reduction gear 78, so the pump driving provided in the softener tank 33 The shaft 60 rotates in the same direction as the swing gear 73. Since the rotation directions of the swing gear in the forward rotation state and the reverse rotation state are opposite to each other, the first pump driving gear 75 and the second pump driving gear 76 rotate in the same direction with each other. That is, the pump means 47 for supplying the lotion and the pump means 47 for supplying the softener may be constituted to supply the lotion or the softener when they are rotated in the same direction, and they may have the same configuration as each other because the parts can be used in common. Can be constructed cheaply.

<Summary of Forward and Reverse Switching Actions>

According to this embodiment, when the supply motor 65 is rotated forward, only the pump means 47 provided in the lotion tank 32 is driven to supply the lotion, and when the supply motor 65 is reversed, only the pump provided in the softener tank 33 can be provided. The means 47 supplies the softener in a driven manner, so that only two types of lotion and softener can be supplied by the sole supply motor 65, and a simple structure and low-cost automatic washing treatment liquid feeding means 30 can be realized.

In addition, the forward rotation and the reverse rotation are for the convenience of describing the user of this embodiment, and are not limited to such expressions.

<Residual amount detection>

13 and 14 are schematic diagrams showing an example of the configuration of the remaining amount detecting means 79 of the washing treatment liquid in the present embodiment.

A light-emitting element 80 such as an LED is provided on the side facing the lotion tank 32, and a light-receiving element 8 is provided coaxially with the light-emitting element 80 on the side facing the light-emitting element 80 of the lotion tank 32. The light receiving element 81 is, for example, an element that converts the intensity of light into an electrical signal, such as a phototube or a photodiode.

Since the tanks 32 and 33 are formed of transparent resin, when the washing treatment liquid does not enter, the light from the light emitting element 80 passes through the tanks 32 and 33 to reach the light receiving element 81, so that an electrical signal is generated in the light receiving element 81. On the other hand, when the washing treatment liquid is put into the tubs 32 and 33, it is shielded from light, so that no electric signal is generated in the light receiving element 81. Here, by arranging the pair of the light-emitting element 80 and the light-receiving element 81 at a predetermined height from the bottom surfaces of the tanks 32 and 33, the liquid level of the washing treatment liquid in the tanks 32 and 33 can be checked. Out.

As shown in FIG. 14, the pair of the light-emitting element 80 and the light-receiving element 81 are provided at two heights h1 near the bottom surface 46 from the bottom surfaces 46 of the tanks 32 and 33, and two heights h2 above h1. .

In the case where the washing treatment liquid is sufficient in the tank, and the liquid level is higher than the position H2, since the first light receiving element 81 and the second light receiving element 81 are blocked, it can be seen that the liquid level is higher than h2. high.

When the liquid level of the washing treatment liquid is H1 between h1 and h2, the first light receiving element 81 provided at the height h1 is blocked. The light, the second light-receiving element 81 provided at the height h2 receives light and generates an electrical signal. Therefore, it can be seen that the liquid level height H1 is located between h1 and h2.

When the liquid level of the washing treatment liquid is lower than the height h1, since the first light receiving element 81 and the second light receiving element 81 both receive light from the light emitting element 80 and generate electrical signals, it can be seen that the liquid level is Near the bottom surface, that is, the residual amount of the washing treatment liquid was almost absent.

When the liquid level of the washing treatment liquid is H1, the first light receiving element 81 is shielded from light, and the second light receiving element 81 receives light to generate an electrical signal. In this case, the washing treatment liquid is translucent. Although the first light receiving element 81 is not completely shielded from light, the amount of light generated is reduced, so that the electrical signal generated is reduced. Here, if the difference between the electrical signal generated by the second light-receiving element 81 is measured, it can be determined more reliably than by measuring only the increase or decrease of the signal of a single light-receiving element: the liquid surface is located at the first light-receiving element 81 and the second light-receiving element. Element 81.

Here, when the liquid level of the washing treatment liquid becomes H1, the remaining amount of the washing treatment liquid is set to the heights of h1 and h2, for example, for 2-3 times of washing, and the remaining amount of the washing treatment liquid at this time is set. If the amount is a small notification method, the user can know when the washing treatment liquid is replenished, so the user will not run out of the lotion without realizing it, and can automatically put in a highly reliable washing treatment liquid. Means washing machine.

<Tank Removability>

According to this embodiment, the tanks 32 and 33 are not provided with The wiring for driving the motor 65 and the like are attached to the wiring connection portion for attachment and detachment of the main body.

That is, the driving force for driving the gear pump 51 from the supply motor 65 is to drive the pump means 47 from the driving means 62 provided on the washing machine body side through the driving force attaching and detaching means, that is, the coupling 61. Furthermore, the detection means for detecting the remaining amount of the washing treatment liquid in the tubs 32 and 33, that is, the light emitting element 80 and the light receiving element 81 are provided on the washing machine body 4 side. Therefore, when the user removes the tanks 32 and 33 in order to supply the washing treatment liquid, as shown in FIG. 1, the tank cover 31 with the driving means 62 inside is opened because the coupling 61 is connected from the coupling. Since the receiver receiving portion 64 is separated, the buckets 32 and 33 can be easily removed together with the pump means 47 when the bucket handle 44 a is pulled upward while being held.

<Prevention of lotion dripping>

Here, the tanks 32 and 33 and the pump means 47 are integrally removed. Therefore, when the tanks 32 and 33 are taken out of the washing machine body, the washing treatment liquid does not drip, which is optimal. When the tanks 32 and 33 and the pump means 47 are separate from the tanks 32 and 33 or the pump means 47 is taken out, it is necessary to remove the pump means 47 and the pump means 47 at the suction port 48 of the pump means 47. The tanks 32 and 33 are separated, and the lotion may drip when the tanks 32 and 33 or the pumping means 47 are removed.

<Tank cleaning performance>

The tanks 32 and 33 in this embodiment are detachably separated from the upper tank cover portion 44 and the lower tank body 45 from each other, and each has no Since the wiring and electrical components are included, the outside of the tanks 32 and 33 or the tank cover 44 and the tank body 45 can be washed freely, so the tanks 32 and 33 can be kept clean.

And even when it is replaced with a different washing treatment liquid, because the remaining original washing treatment liquid can still be washed out before putting in another new washing treatment liquid, it will not be mixed with different washing treatment liquids and solidified. , The cleaning power will not decrease.

<Pump cleaning performance>

According to this embodiment, since the pump means 47 is provided with the driving force connection means 29 that can be connected and separated from the driving means 62, the tank and the pump means 47 are detachably removable, and the tank and the pump means 47 There is no wiring for supplying electric power for driving the pump means 47. Further, since there is no wiring structure connected to the detection means for detecting the remaining amount of lotion and softener, it is easy to remove and the inside of the tank and the pump The inside is also washable, providing a washing machine with high cleaning and reliability.

When the suction port 48 of the pumping means 47 is immersed in water, the coupling 61 is rotated by hand to rotate the gear pump 51 to discharge water from the suction port through the gear pump 51 and the supply pipe 54 from the discharge port 56. You can also dilute and wash away the remaining lotion inside the pump.

According to this embodiment, since the tanks 32 and 33 are easy to wash and the inside of the pump means 47 is also easy to wash, the lotion does not remain and solidify inside the pump means 47, or does not remain inside the pump means 47. Mix the previously used washing treatment liquid with the new washing treatment liquid, so you can The washing machine is provided with a highly reliable automatic washing treatment liquid injection means 30.

Furthermore, if the casing of the pump means 47 is formed of a transparent resin, it can be confirmed visually that the lotion and the softener remain in the pump or the cleaning is completed.

<Compatibility with manual supply>

According to this embodiment, as described above, the lotion input port 25 includes, for example, a powder lotion input portion 25a, a liquid lotion input portion 25b, and a softener input portion 25c, and each of the powder washing portions is charged once. A lotion, a softener, or a liquid lotion is put into the water tank 17 through the first lotion supply pipe 14. Further, a configuration may be adopted in which the lotion is automatically injected into the water tank 17 from the lotion tank 32 through the second water supply pipe 40 and the first water supply pipe 9.

That is, it can be used freely according to the user's preferences: when washing with the lotion in the lotion tank 32 and / or when washing with another lotion into the liquid lotion input unit 25b, it is possible A washing machine provided with a method for automatically putting in a washing treatment liquid with good usability.

In the same way, since the softener in the softener tank 33 and / or the other softener in the softener input portion 25c can be used separately, it can be provided with good usability. Washing machine for automatic washing treatment liquid feeding means 30.

And in this embodiment, because the washing treatment liquid is automatically Since the input means 30 and the detergent input port 25 are arranged independently, the cleaning performance of the tank and the pump, and the replenishment of the washing treatment liquid toward the tank are improved. In the meantime, the tank or the like of the automatic washing treatment liquid feeding means 30 may be pulled out, thereby improving the usability.

<Control Block Diagram>

Fig. 15 is a block diagram of the control device 138 of the washing machine. 150 is a microcomputer, which is connected to an operation button input circuit 151 connected to each switch (not shown), a water level sensor 134, a lotion residual amount detection means 79a, and a softener residual amount detection means 79b, and accepts user buttons Various information signals during operation and washing. The output from the microcomputer 150 is connected to the drive circuit 154, and connected to the water supply solenoid valve 116, the drain valve 8, the motor 36, the supply motor 65, and the like, and controls the opening, closing, rotation, and energization of these. Further, the display 114 is connected to a light emitting diode 156 and a buzzer 157 such as a 7-segment light emitting diode for notifying the user of the operating state of the washing machine.

The microcomputer 150 is a basic control processing program for the power switch 139 that is activated when the power is turned on, and executes washing as shown in FIG. 16.

<Control handler>

Step S101

Check the status and initial settings of the washer-dryer.

Step S102

The display 114 of the operation panel 106 is turned on, and according to the instruction input from an operation button switch (not shown), it is set whether or not the lotion and the softener are automatically injected. When the automatic charging is set, the lotion and softener are automatically charged in the following washing process. On the other hand, when automatic charging is not set, the user manually puts the lotion and softener into the lotion input port 25, and the lotion and softener supply motor 65 is not driven.

Step S103

The process is monitored by monitoring the instruction input of a start switch (not shown) from the operation panel 106.

Step S104

Whether the automatic lotion injection is set is divided.

Step S105

When the lotion is automatically set, the remaining amount of lotion is confirmed based on the output of the lotion remaining amount detecting means 79a, and the processing is divided.

Step S106

When the lotion is automatically set, the remaining amount of the softener is confirmed based on the output of the softener remaining amount detecting means 79b, and the processing is divided.

Step S107

The rotating drum 20 is rotated. At this time, the rotation driving torque generated in the motor 8 is measured from the current value required to drive the motor 8 and the amount of cloth put into the rotating drum 20 is determined.

Step S108

The supply amount of lotion and softener is set based on the discriminant value of the cloth amount.

Step S109

Whether the automatic lotion injection is set is divided.

Step S110

The supply motor 65 is driven in the forward direction for a predetermined time to supply the detergent in the detergent tank 32 to a predetermined amount in the input area 39. When the automatic lotion is not set, this step is not performed.

Step S111

The feed water solenoid valve 116 is opened to feed water, and the lotion supplied to the lotion input port 25 or the input area 39 is dissolved and supplied to the inside of the water tank 17 through the first lotion supply pipe 14.

Step S112

The washing process is performed. After the end, the drain valve 8 is opened to drain the washing water, and then the rotary drum 20 is rotated at a high speed to perform centrifugal dehydration.

Step S113

The water supply solenoid valve 116 is opened to supply water, and the washing water is supplied into the water tank 17.

Step S114

The washing process is performed. After the end, the drain valve 8 is opened to drain the washing water, and then the rotary drum 20 is rotated at a high speed to perform centrifugal dehydration.

Step S115

Whether the softener automatic input is set or not is divided.

Step S116

The supply motor 65 is driven in the reverse direction for a predetermined time to supply the softener in the softener tank 33 to a predetermined amount in the input area 39. This step is not performed when the softener automatic input is not set.

Step S117

The water supply solenoid valve 116 is opened to supply water, and the softener supplied to the softener input portion 25c or the input area 39 is dissolved and supplied to the inside of the water tank 17 through the first lotion supply pipe 14.

Step S118

Carry out the final cleaning process, after the end, open the drain valve 8 to wash the water drain.

Step S119

The rotary drum 20 is rotated at a high speed for final dehydration.

Step S120

The end of the washing process.

[Second embodiment]

The second embodiment will be described using FIG. 17.

Fig. 17 is a side view showing the configuration of a lotion tank 32 and a pump means 47 of an automatic washing treatment liquid charging means according to a second embodiment. The second embodiment is different from the first embodiment in that the pump means 47 is not provided inside the lotion tank 32, but is provided adjacent to the side of the lotion tank 32, and is provided on the bottom surface of the lotion tank 32 A suction port 48 provided at the lower end of the suction pipe 50 extending downward from the pumping means 47 is connected near the lowermost end of.

As in the first embodiment, the coupling 61 provided on the upper end of the gear pump 51 is combined with the coupling 61 to rotate the gear pump 51 when the driving means 62 is rotated. The lotion in the lotion tank 32 is from The suction port 48 is sucked through the suction pipe 50 and is discharged from the discharge port 56 via the gear pump 51 and the supply pipe 54. The discharged lotion is supplied into the water tank 17 in the same manner as in the first embodiment, and a washing process is performed.

[Third embodiment]

The third embodiment will be described using FIGS. 18 to 21.

Fig. 18 is a plan view showing the configuration of the automatic washing treatment liquid charging means according to the third embodiment, and Fig. 19 is an E-E cross-sectional view. Fig. 20 is a perspective view showing the structure of the pump unit, and Fig. 21 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line F-F.

<Basic configuration>

The third embodiment is different from the first embodiment in that the tanks 32 and 33 are arranged side by side at the rear of the lotion inlet 25, between the lotion tank 32 and the lotion inlet 25 and the softener A pump is provided between the tank 33 and the lotion inlet 25, and a lotion or softener is supplied from the tanks 32 and 33 to the lotion inlet 25.

In the third embodiment, for example, if the lotion input port 25 is seen from the user, the powder lotion input portion 25a, the liquid lotion input portion 25b, and the softener input portion 25c are arranged in this order from the left side. When a lotion tank 32 is arranged at the rear of the portion 25b and a lotion tank 33 is arranged at the rear of the right-side softener input portion 25c, the lotion tank 32 and the liquid lotion input portion 25b are arranged close to each other, and the lotion tank Since the tub 33 and the softening agent input section 25c are arranged close to each other, the automatic washing solution feeding means 30 can be configured in a small size and is optimal.

In the third embodiment, a screw pump 82 is provided as a pump, and the suction port 48 at the lower end of the screw pump 82 is fixed to the tanks 32 and 33. The bottom surfaces of the tubs 32 and 33 are inclined surfaces that descend toward the suction port 48 of the screw pump 82, and the lotion is configured to flow toward the suction port 48.

The tops of the tanks 32 and 33 and the screw pump 82 are The tank lid body 31 is rotatably supported around the fulcrum 90. The tank lid body 31 is provided with a driving means including a motor and a reduction means, but the configuration of the driving means is the same as that of the first embodiment. It may be omitted in detail.

<Spiral Pump Configuration>

The configuration of the screw pump 82 will be described with reference to FIGS. 20 to 21. The male gear 83 is rotatably supported with the pump drive shaft 60 and has a shape in which an oval cross-section is twisted along the rotation axis, and the number of teeth is two. The mother gear 84 has three teeth and is rotatably supported around the periphery of the pump driven shaft 91. The mother gear 84 rotates in mesh with the male gear 83 to form a concave portion corresponding to the long portion of the male gear 83 and a corresponding male gear 83. The cross-sectional shape formed by the convex portions of the straight portion of the ring is alternately twisted at the same angle as the male gear 83 in the opposite direction. In a form including a male gear 83 and a female gear 84 that mesh with each other, a housing 85 having an approximately eyeglass-shaped cross section is provided. The upper and lower ends of the case 85 are sealed, and the rear end of the lower end is a suction port 48 which becomes an opening, and is connected to the tubs 32 and 33. A front side of the upper end of the case 85 is connected to the discharge port 56 through an opening. The lotion or softener discharged from the discharge port 56 is arranged to be supplied into the lotion input port 25.

The male gear 83 is rotatably provided together with the pump drive shaft 60, and a coupling 61 is provided at the upper end of the pump drive shaft 60. When the coupler 61 is rotated, the male gear 83 and the female gear 84 are rotated through the pump drive shaft 60. When the tank lid body 31 is closed, a rotational driving force from the driving means 62 is transmitted to the coupling 61.

When the male gear 83 and the mother gear 84 are rotated in the direction of the arrows in FIG. 20 or FIG. 21, the gap formed between the teeth of the male gear 83 and the teeth of the female gear 84 is twisted in the opposite direction to each other, that is, conveyance The space 86 moves upward from below, and the lotion in the casing 85 is sucked in from the suction port 48 below, and is conveyed upward and discharged from the discharge port 56.

When the tank lid body 31 is opened, the opening part can be released so that the tanks 32 and 33 are taken out upward together with the screw pump 82. The user can replenish the lotion or softener from the replenishment port 88, or the tank Wash the buckets 32 and 33.

<Confirmation of supply amount is possible>

In the third embodiment, the lotion or softener can be supplied from the tubs 32 and 33 to the lotion inlet 25 by operating the driving means. In the third embodiment, since the lotion or softener supplied by the screw pump 82 is supplied to the lotion input port 25, if the cap of the lotion input port 25 is opened after the supply operation is completed, because The user can visually check the amount of lotion or softener supplied, so it is optimal.

In the third embodiment, although the screw pump 82 is provided close to the outside of the tanks 32 and 33, the screw pump 82 may be provided inside the tanks 32 and 33.

The powdered lotion, liquid lotion, and softener that are put into the lotion inlet 25 are fed through a water supply path (not shown), and are fed into the water tank 17 through the siphon tube 89 and the first lotion supply tube 14.

[Fourth embodiment]

<Pulling forward>

The fourth embodiment will be described using FIG. 22.

Fig. 22 (a) is a cross-sectional view showing the configuration of the fourth embodiment, and is the same cross-sectional view as that of Fig. 19 in the third embodiment.

In the fourth embodiment, the tanks 32 and 33 are arranged at the rear of the lotion inlet 25, and a gear pump 51 and a gear pump 51 directed upward from the lower side of the rear of the tanks 32 and 33 are provided. The upper end of the supply pipe 54 is lateral, that is, the supply pipe 54 protrudes toward the rear side of the paper surface so that its tip becomes the discharge port 56. A further rear part of the gear pump 51 is a driving means 62 which is incorporated in a supply motor 65 and a reduction means 66 provided in the washing machine body 4, and a separable coupling 61 and a coupling receiving part 64 provided in the driving force coupling means 29. It rotates in mesh with the surroundings of a rotation shaft provided horizontally in the front-rear direction, and transmits a rotational driving force from the driving means 62 to the gear pump 51.

When the gear pump 51 is rotationally driven by energizing the supply motor 65, the lotion or softener can be sent out from the tanks 32 and 33, and it can be discharged from the discharge port 56 provided above the gear pump 51 through the second lotion supply pipe 41 via The first lotion supply pipe 14 is configured to be supplied into the water tank 17.

The powdered lotion, liquid lotion, and softener that are put into the lotion inlet 25 are fed through a water supply path (not shown), and are fed into the water tank 17 through the siphon tube 89 and the first lotion supply tube 14.

In the fourth embodiment, the lotion input port 25 and the tank 32, 33 and the pump means 47 can be integrally pulled forward, and FIG. 22 (b) is a diagram showing a state where the lotion inlet 25 and the tubs 32 and 33 are drawn forward. The coupler 61 and the coupler receiving portion 64 are separated from each other. In a state where the lotion is introduced into the mouth 25, the tanks 32, 33 and the pump means 47, the openable and closable replenishment port 88 provided in the tanks 32 and 33 can be opened, and the lotion and softener are directed toward the tank. Within added.

Because the driving means 62 and the pump means 47 are separated by the coupling 61 and the coupling receiving portion 64, the pump means 47 does not need to connect the wiring for driving the motor 65, because the tanks 32 and 33 can be removed from the ground. It can be washed with water, so it can provide a highly reliable washing machine.

[Fifth Embodiment]

The fifth embodiment will be described using FIG. 23.

FIG. 23 is a BB sectional view showing the structure of the fifth embodiment, which is the same sectional view as that of FIG. 7 in the first embodiment, and is a simplified map of the lotion tank storage area 37 or the softener tank storage area 38 Show.

Different from the first embodiment, the driving means 62 is not provided in the tank lid body 31, but is provided under the lotion tank storage area 37 or the softener tank storage area 38, and the lotion tank The gear pump 51 provided on the inner side of the 32 or softener tank 33 and the coupling 61 provided on the outer side are rotatably connected to prevent leakage through a sealing member 92 such as an O-ring. The coupling 61 is a structure in which the coupling receiving portion 64 is detachably provided in the driving means 62 and can transmit a driving torque when engaged with each other.

In the fifth embodiment, when the supply motor 65 rotates, The deceleration means 66 decelerates and rotates the coupling receiving portion 64, and transmits a driving torque to the coupling 61 to rotate the gear pump 51 to be disposed inside the lotion tank 32 or the softener tank 33 to rotate the lotion tank. 32 or the lotion or softener in the softener tank 33 is configured to be discharged from the discharge port 56 through the supply pipe 54 as an arrow.

[Sixth embodiment]

The sixth embodiment will be described using FIG. 24.

FIG. 24 is a BB cross-sectional view showing the structure of the sixth embodiment, which is the same cross-sectional view as that of FIG. 7 in the first embodiment, and is a simplified map of the lotion tank storage area 37 or the softener tank storage area 38 Show.

Different from the first embodiment, the driving means 62 is not provided on the tank lid body 31, but on the side of the lotion tank storage area 37 or the softener tank storage area 38, and the lotion tank 32 Or, the gear pump 51 provided on the inner side of the softener tank 33 and the coupling 61 provided on the outer side are rotatably connected to prevent leakage through a sealing member 92 such as an O-ring. The coupling 61 is a structure in which the coupling receiving portion 64 is detachably provided in the driving means 62 and can transmit a driving torque when engaged with each other.

In the sixth embodiment, when the supply motor 65 rotates, the coupling receiving portion 64 is decelerated and rotated by the deceleration means 66, and the driving torque is transmitted to the coupling 61 to be disposed in the lotion tank 32 or the softener tank 33. The internal gear pump 51 rotates, and the lotion or softener in the lotion tank 32 or the softener tank 33 is discharged from the discharge port 56 through the supply pipe 54 as an arrow.

When the lotion tank 32 or the softener tank 33 is removed, the right side of the lotion tank 32 or the softener tank 33 is staggered until the coupling receiving part 64 and the coupling 61 are disengaged. It can be removed from the washing machine body by moving upwards. During installation, the reverse operation is performed.

In addition, in the first to sixth embodiments, the lotion tank 32 or the softener tank 33 can be removed by attaching and detaching the coupler 61 and the coupler receiving portion 64, and the gear pump 51 can be transmitted. The driving torque is not limited to this configuration.

In describing the first embodiment, in FIG. 7, the coupling 61 and the coupling receiving portion 64 are integrated, and the first pump driving gear 75 or the second pump driving gear 76 is provided in the pump means 47. The swing gear 73 is provided in the tank cover 31 and is disposed at a position where the first pump drive gear 75 or the second pump drive gear 76 and the swing gear 73 can be engaged with and detached in conjunction with the opening and closing of the tank cover 31.

When the tank lid body 31 is opened, the meshing of the gear will be disengaged, and the lotion tank 32 or the softener tank 33 can be taken out. After the lotion tank 32 or the softener tank 33 is installed, when the tank cover 31 is closed, the gears mesh with each other to transmit the driving torque.

<Effect>

<Automatic supply of washing treatment liquid>

As described above, the lotion and softener which are filled in each tank can be automatically supplied only at a proper supply amount at a predetermined time point during the washing process or the washing process. Further equipped with a means of measuring If the amount of cloth to be measured is controlled, it is possible to provide a washing machine without unnecessary waste of lotions and softeners because the use of lotions and softeners is not excessive or insufficient.

<Forward and reverse switching action>

The rotation direction is switched by turning the supply motor 65 forward and reverse, because during the forward rotation, the gear pump provided in the lotion tank 32 is driven to supply the lotion, and in the reverse direction, the gear provided in the softener tank 33 is supplied. The pump drive is configured to supply the softener. Therefore, since two gear pumps can be selectively driven by only one motor, the drive system can be configured inexpensively.

<Residual amount detection>

With the residual amount detection method, the residual amount in the tank of lotion or softener is detected. When the residual amount is less than the specified amount, it can be notified to the user, so it can provide lotion and softness. Reliable washing machine with insufficient agent.

<Cap size and tank loading and unloading>

The cover is provided with a driving means including a motor and a reduction gear. When the cover is closed, the driving force connection means 29 provided in the driving means and the pump section is connected, and the driving force of the motor is transmitted to the gear pump 51 to cover the cover. A configuration in which the coupling receiving portion 64 and the coupling 61 of the driving force coupling means 29 are separated when opened. When the opening size of the tank lid 31 is larger than that of the lotion tank 32 and the softener tank 33 when viewed from above, the lotion tank The bucket 32 and the softener tank 33 can be easily removed and installed.

<Coupling reliability>

The driving force coupling means 29 is provided between the lower surface of the tub cover 31 on the upper surface of the washing machine body 4 and the upper surfaces of the tubs 32 and 33. That is, the height of the driving force coupling means 29 in the tanks 32 and 33 is higher than the liquid level that is replenished even if the lotion or softener is filled in place. Therefore, even if the lotion or softener leaks from the tanks 32 and 33, the liquid level will not reach the driving force connection means 29 or the driving means 62 provided in the tank cover 31. Will intrude the driving means 62.

Furthermore, since the coupling receiving portion 64 that is rotationally driven in the driving force connection means 29 is provided below the tub lid body 31, when the tub lid body 31 is opened, it becomes more than the upper surface of the washing machine body 4. The high position has a configuration that is opened in a substantially vertical plane.

When the user puts in or out the tubs 32 and 33 in order to replenish the lotion or softener toward the tubs 32 and 33, even if the lotion or softener drips, the lotion or softener is dripped onto the washing machine body 4, or The tub contains the inside of the container 34. Since there is no such as a rotary drive unit such as the coupling receiving portion 64 in the tub storage container 34, the dripping lotion does not enter the rotary drive unit and interfere with the driving of the pump, so that a highly reliable washing machine can be provided.

<Slotless Bucket Wiring>

The wiring for driving the pump means 47 to the supply motor 65 is from the laundry The machine body 4 is arranged inside the tank lid body 31, and there is no wiring to the supply motor 65 in the tanks 32 and 33. Further, the residual amount detection means 79 of the tubs 32 and 33 are also arranged outside the tub, and the wiring of the residual amount detection means 79 is also arranged in the washing machine body 4.

Therefore, the tanks 32 and 33 are not provided with electrical components. Therefore, when the tanks 32 and 33 are mounted or detached, the wiring and connection means such as power contacts with connectors are not required for mounting and dismounting, so no lotion is required. Adhering to a power contact or the like causes poor contact, and a highly reliable washing machine can be provided.

<Tank cleaning performance>

Since the tanks 32 and 33 are easy to remove and do not have a structure for wiring and power contacts, the entire tanks 32 and 33 may be immersed in water. Therefore, it is easy to wash and remove the lotion and softener remaining inside the tanks 32 and 33, and the tanks can be kept clean. In addition, when the lotion or softener is replenished, since it is not mixed with the old lotion and softener in the state adhered to the inside of the tubs 32 and 33 to deteriorate the cleaning performance, a highly reliable washing machine can be provided.

<Pump cleaning performance>

Since the pump means 47 is provided with a driving force connection means 29 that can be connected and separated from the driving means 62, the tank and the pump means 47 can be detachably removed, and the tank and the pump means 47 are not provided with a supply pump The wiring for the electric power driven by means 47 can be further removed without detection and washing The structure of the wiring connected to the detection means for the residual amount of detergent and softener is easy to remove, and the inside of the tub and the pump are also washable, and a washing machine with improved cleaning and reliability can be provided.

Because the pump means 47 can be removed from the tank body 45, the suction port of the pump means 47 is immersed in water and the coupling 61 is rotated by hand, because the water is sucked in through the suction port 48 and passes through the inside of the gear pump 51 Since it is discharged from the discharge port 56, the inside of the pump means 47 can be washed with water. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the old lotion and softener from being deteriorated and clogging the pump, or when the lotion or softener is replenished, it is not mixed with the old lotion and softener in the state attached to the inside of the pump means 47 to make the washing. The net performance deteriorates, so a highly reliable washing machine can be provided.

Furthermore, if the casing of the pump means 47 is formed of a transparent resin, it can be confirmed visually that the lotion and the softener remain in the pump or the cleaning is completed.

<Gear pump height>

The gear pump 51 is arranged at a position lower than the liquid level when the lotion or softener is replenished toward the tanks 32 and 33. When the lotion or softener is replenished, the gear pump 51 becomes immersed in The state of lotion or softener is the state of "starting water". That is, since it is not necessary to suck the lotion or softener to the height of the gear pump 51 by the negative pressure of the air, the lotion or softener can be reliably supplied, and a highly reliable washing machine can be provided.

<Compatibility with manual supply>

According to the user's preference, the case of washing with the lotion in the lotion tank 32 and / or the case of washing with another lotion which has been put into the lotion inlet 25 can be used separately, so it can be used. A washing machine provided with a convenient washing treatment liquid automatic feeding means 30.

<Filter structure>

Since the filter 58 provided with the slit 59 is provided around the suction port 48 of the pump means 47, it is possible to prevent foreign matter from being sucked in and block the gear pump 51, and it is possible to provide a highly reliable automatic washing treatment liquid injection means 30 effect.

In this embodiment, although two pumps are selected and driven in accordance with the forward and reverse rotation of one motor, each tank is provided with a motor and a deceleration means, and different motors are selectively driven to supply detergent and softener selectively. The composition is also possible.

Although the pump is a gear pump in this embodiment, it is not limited to a gear pump, and other types of pumps such as a piston pump, a diaphragm pump, and a wing pump may be used.

Furthermore, in the configuration disclosed in Patent Document 1, since the transfer pump has a structure in which a DC motor and a gear pump are provided inside and is immersed in a liquid, there is an upper limit on miniaturization of the transfer pump. When a reduction gear is provided from the DC motor to the gear pump in order to adjust the rotation speed of the gear pump, the reduction gear must also be provided inside the transfer pump. Because the transfer pump is installed in the lotion tank, it is limited in size. There is an upper limit to the reduction ratio of the size and reduction gear. On the other hand, in the above embodiment, since the driving force connection means 29 capable of connecting and separating the rotational driving force transmitted from the driving means 62 to the pump means 47 is provided, the problems described above can be eliminated.

Moreover, although the above-mentioned embodiment demonstrated the example of the drum type washing machine, this invention is not limited to this, It is applicable to a vertical type washing machine.

[Seventh embodiment]

The seventh embodiment will be described using FIGS. 25 to 37.

Fig. 25 is a perspective view showing a washing machine according to a seventh embodiment of the present invention. Fig. 26 is a front view showing a part of the internal structure with the front cover 18 virtually removed. Fig. 27 is a plan view, and Fig. 28 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line G-G in Fig. 27. In order to explain, a part of the water tank 17 that is a cylindrical water tank 17 and a part of the rotary drum 20 are virtually broken.

FIG. 29 is a perspective view of the automatic washing treatment liquid feeding means viewed from the direction J, and FIG. 30 is a (a) plan view and (b) a rear view of the automatic washing treatment liquid feeding means.

FIG. 31 is a perspective view of the lotion tank 32 as viewed from the direction P. FIG. 32 is a KK cross-sectional view of the automatic washing liquid feeding means. FIG. 33 is a view showing the lotion tank 32 or the softener tank 33. FIG. 34 is a perspective view of the configuration of the pump means 47 provided, and FIG. 34 is a MM cross-sectional view. Fig. 35 is a sectional view taken along the line N-N in Fig. 34;

Figure 36 shows the viscosity of lotions or softeners. (A) shows the case where the reduction ratio of the drive means 62 is large, (b) shows the appropriate case of the reduction ratio, and (c) shows the small reduction ratio. A schematic explanatory diagram of the tendency of the supply amount to change in such cases.

Fig. 37 is a schematic explanatory diagram showing a tendency of "variation in supply amount" caused by the reduction ratio of the driving means 62 and the difference in viscosity.

The seventh embodiment is different from the first embodiment in that the lotion tank bucket 32 and the softener tank bucket 33 are not juxtaposed back and forth with each other but side by side with each other, and the lotion tank bucket 32 is closer to the left of the softener tank bucket 33 The left side of the washing machine body 4 is arranged squarely, and the capacity of the lotion tank 32 is larger than that of the softener tank 33. Further, the input area 39 of the lotion or softener which is pumped up from the lotion tank 32 and the softener tank 33 by a pump is arranged on the rear side of the tank storage container 34, and is arranged in the tank storage Between the container 34 and the water supply means 93 including the water supply faucet 7 and the water supply solenoid valve 12.

Therefore, since the input area 39 is arranged close to the water supply means 93, there is an advantage that the second water supply pipe 40 that supplies water from the water supply means 93 toward the input area 39 is short.

Furthermore, a third lotion supply pipe 118 is provided which connects one end to the opening on the bottom surface of the tub storage container 34 and connects the other end to the first lotion supply pipe 14. The lotion or softener overflowing into the tub storage container 34 is put into the water tank 17 through the third lotion supply pipe 118 and the first lotion supply pipe 14.

A fixed support frame 94 made of, for example, an iron plate is provided to fix the left and right ends on the left outer frame 2 and the right outer frame 2 and connects the left and right outer frames 2 to each other, and is washed on the rear side of the fixed support frame 94. The front side of the tank storage container 34 of the automatic treatment liquid feeding means 30 is fixed by mounting bolts 116, and the rear side of the lotion inlet 25 in the front side of the fixed support frame 94 is not shown. Bolts, etc. are fixed.

A first water supply pipe 9 that connects the water supply solenoid valve 12 and the lotion inlet 25 is disposed along the right side of the tank storage container 34. One or a plurality of tank side guides 95 protruding from the right side of the tank storage container 34 are formed, and the plurality of tank side guides 95 are arranged up and down with a slight gap from the diameter of the first water supply pipe 9 Once the water supply pipe 9 is pressed in, the first water supply pipe 9 can be fixed by the side guide 95 of the tank.

As further shown in FIG. 30, the first water supply pipe 9 is arranged from the right side to the left side along the front side of the tank storage container 34, and is connected to the lotion inlet 25.

Since the tank storage container 34 and the lotion inlet 25 are fixed to the common fixed support frame 94 in this way, it is not necessary to provide separate fixing members separately, and the arrangement and dimensional relationship between each other is not affected by operation. It can move or deviate from vibration and shock during transportation. Therefore, it is possible to provide a highly reliable washing machine that can securely fix the first water supply pipe 9.

Furthermore, the seventh embodiment is different from the first embodiment in that although there is only one supply motor 65 in the first embodiment, when the supply motor 65 is rotated forward, the lotion tank 32 is transmitted through the swing gear 73 Inside The lotion is supplied into the input area 39, and when the supply motor 65 is reversed, the softener in the softener tank 33 is supplied to the input area 39 through the swing gear 73, but in the seventh embodiment, the 29th As shown in the figure, the respective pump means 47 provided in the lotion tank 32 and the softener tank 33 are provided with separate lotion supply motors 65a and 65b respectively.

A worm 67 is provided in each of the shafts of the lotion supply motor 65a and the softener supply motor 65b, and a worm gear 70 is provided in the coupling receiving portion 64 to mesh with the worm 67 to supply the lotion supply motor 65a and the softener supply motor 65b. When rotating, the worm wheel 70 rotates at a reduced speed, and the coupling receiving portion 64 is rotationally driven. The worm 67 and the worm wheel 70 are constituted by a reduction means 66 in this embodiment.

When the lotion supply motor 65a is driven in the forward direction, the pump means 47 in the lotion tank 32 is driven, the lotion in the lotion tank 32 is supplied to a predetermined amount in the input area 39, and the softener is supplied to the motor When 65b is driven in the forward direction, the pump means 47 in the softener tank 33 is driven, and the lotion in the softener tank 33 is supplied to a predetermined amount in the input area 39.

Here, since the amount of the lotion or the softener remaining inside the pump means 47 after the supply of the lotion or the softener is stopped, there is a problem that an error in the supply amount occurs due to the difference.

Furthermore, when the lotion or softener is replenished, or when the tanks 32 and 33 are removed for cleaning, the drive means 62 is opened to the rear along with the tank cover 31, so it is driven by the open drive. hand In the front face of the segment 62, the coupling receiving portion 64 that transmits the driving force toward the pump means 47 is exposed. When a lotion or a softener adheres to the coupling receiving part 64, it has a problem that it penetrates from the gap of the outer periphery of the coupling receiving part 64 or adheres to the inside of the driving means 62, and prevents transmission of a driving force.

An example of the structures of the lotion tank 32 and the softener tank 33 will be described with reference to FIGS. 31 and 32 and FIGS. 25 to 30 as appropriate.

The difference from the first embodiment shown in FIG. 6 or FIG. 7 is that the pump casing 49 is integrated with the tank lid portion 44 and extends toward the tank bottom surface 46, and is fitted into the tank body 45 Open the top, and form the top cover. The knob-shaped convex portion is a part of the tank lid opening handle 96 provided on the upper surface of the tank lid portion 44. When the tank lid portion 44 is removed from the tank body 45, the fingers can be hooked, so it can be easily The tank lid portion 44 is removed.

The tub handle 44a is rotatably supported around the handle fulcrum 97 provided on the tub body 45, and is stored in the tub storage container 34. The tub handle 44a is positioned approximately on the upper surface of the tub lid portion 44. By rotating the tank handle 44a around the handle fulcrum 97 at the same height and a substantially horizontal storage position, the tank handle 44a can be located at the substantially vertical tank loading / unloading position shown by the dotted line in FIG. 31. When the tank handle 44a is located in the storage position, the total height of the lotion tank 32 or the softener tank 33 including the tank handle 44a can be suppressed, which is suitable for a compact structure. When the tank handle 44a is located at the tank loading and unloading position, the lotion tank 32 or softener tank 33 can be lifted from the tank by holding the tank handle 44a upward. The bucket storage container 34 is detached and has a structure that can be easily attached and detached.

Since the handle fulcrum 97 is provided on the tank body 45, the tank body 45 does not fall or fall when the tank handle 44a is held and lifted, and can be removed steadily.

The tank cover portion 44 is further provided with an openable and closable supply cover 99 that is rotatably supported around the supply cover support shaft 98. The lotion or softener can be opened from the opening when the supply cover 99 is opened. It is supplied into the tanks 32 and 33. When the remaining amount of the liquid lotion or softener in the tanks 32 and 33 is reduced, the supply lid 99 will be opened without removing the tanks 32 and 33, and the liquid lotion or softener can be replenished. Alternatively, the supply lid 99 may be opened while the tanks 32 and 33 are removed from the tank storage container 34 to replenish the liquid lotion or softener.

A recessed portion, that is, a hook portion 100 is provided on the surface furthest from the tank cover portion 44 and the supply cover support shaft 98 of the supply cover 99, and the supply cover 99 is easily opened.

After the liquid lotion or softener in the tanks 32 and 33 is used up, the tanks 32 and 33 are periodically removed to wash the inside of the tanks, and the remaining lotion or softener is washed away with water to prevent Adhesion and the like are preferred. Further, it is preferable to discharge the remaining liquid detergent or softener inside the gear pump 51 and the supply pipe 54, and it is also preferable to wash the inside of the gear pump 51 and the supply pipe 54 with water.

After removing the tanks 32 and 33, put water into the tanks 32 and 33, or further remove the tank cover 44 from the tank body 45, and immerse the suction port 48 at the lower end of the pumping means 47 in water By hand to coupler When 61 is rotated, the gear pump 51 rotates, so the gear pump 51 sucks water through the supply pipe 54 and is discharged from the discharge port 56. By continuing this operation, water can be passed into the gear pump 51 and the supply pipe 54. If the hand is used, the coupling 61 cannot be rotated at a low speed. Therefore, it takes time to wash the water. Because the water flow rate is also low, it has the ability to wash water Ceiling.

In this embodiment, a pinion gear 101 having a number of teeth of about 10 or 12 is provided below the coupler 61, and a fast-moving gear 102 meshing with the small-gear gear 101 is rotatable around the fast-moving gear center 103. Settings. When the number of teeth of the fast-moving gear 102 is set to, for example, 30 to 36, the coupling 61 can be rotated at a rotation speed that is three times that of the fast-moving gear 102. In the fast-moving gear 102, for example, a recess or a protrusion that can be hooked by the fingertip is provided on the top, because the movement of the fingertip can rotate the coupling 61 at a high speed through the fast-revolving gear 102, so that a sufficient amount of water can be provided. The inside of the gear pump 51 and the supply pipe 54 increases the flow rate in proportion to the rotation speed. Therefore, it is possible to provide a washing machine that can be washed with water for a short period of time, prevents clogging of the gear pump 51 and the supply pipe 54, and has high reliability.

The structure of the gear pump 51 will be described with reference to FIGS. 33 to 35. FIG. 33 shows the structure of the pump means 47, which is different from the first embodiment. The shape of the pump casing 49 is not a cylindrical shape but a quadrangular prism shape. Configuration.

The supply characteristics of the supply motors 65a and 65b, the reduction mechanism 66, and the gear pump 51 when supplying lotions and softeners having different viscosities will be described with reference to FIGS. 36 and 37.

Generally, softeners have a viscosity ratio of about 1 mPa‧s. It is high in water, for example, the viscosity at room temperature of about 20 ° C is mostly about 20 to 100 mPa · s. The liquid lotion has a viscosity of about 100 to 300 Pa‧s at room temperature, and the viscosity in the low temperature, which is closer to the freezing point, also has a viscosity of 1000 to 1200 mPa‧s. The viscosity varies from a low-viscosity softener to a high-viscosity liquid lotion. It is about 60 times.

When liquid lotions and softeners with different viscosities are automatically supplied, the target supply amount that becomes the target value of the supply amount varies depending on the amount of each liquid lotion and softener product, or the amount of dirt on clothing. For example, the target supply amount of liquid lotion in a standard washing process varies greatly between a concentrated lotion and a non-concentrated lotion, and it varies with each manufacturer and product. The target supply amount of softener is also different for each product.

Here, although the supply time until the target supply amount is supplied does not need to be the same as the softener and the liquid detergent, on the other hand, the target supply amount is supplied with high accuracy, so the voltage applied to the supply motors 65a and 65b is applied. Under certain conditions, regardless of the viscosity, the supply amount per unit time from the gear pump 51 must be better. Because the supply amount per unit time is constant, by controlling the driving time of the gear pump 51, the lotion or softener can be accurately supplied to the target supply amount.

However, since the characteristics of the gear pump 51 change in accordance with the viscosity of the liquid being transported, the supply amount per unit time does not become constant, and it can respond to changes in viscosity.

Here, in a viscosity range from a softener having the smallest viscosity to a liquid lotion having the highest viscosity, a difference between a maximum supply amount and a minimum supply amount per unit time is referred to as "variation in supply amount."

Because it is not possible to specify the viscosity of a softener or liquid lotion in advance, the better characteristic of the pump is that the "supply varies" in the range from low viscosity to high viscosity. Description: The optimum conditions of the gear pump 51 having such a supply accuracy and the reduction means 66 driving the gear pump 51.

As described above, if the supply motors 65 a and 65 b are DC brush motors having a driving voltage of about 12 V, for example, the gear pump 51 is rotated by decelerating by the reduction means 66. The supply motors 65a and 65b are, for example, stepping motors or servo motors, and speed controllable motors are also possible, but these are more expensive than DC brush motors. Explaining the relationship between the rotation speed and output torque of a general DC brush motor, when a certain driving voltage is applied, it has the characteristic that the rotation speed will change according to the output torque. That is, the maximum rotation speed is obtained when the output torque is zero, and the speed becomes low as the output torque increases, and the maximum output torque occurs when the rotation speed reaches zero and stops. That is, the rotation speed has a characteristic of decreasing linearly in response to an increase in load torque.

When the gear pump 51 is rotationally driven by a DC brush motor having such characteristics to supply lotion or softener, if the load torque generated by the gear pump 51 is constant, the supply motors 65a and 65b are rotated at a constant speed according to the load torque. Speed rotation. However, when the viscosity of the supplied liquid lotion or softener is different, the rotation speed of the supply motors 65a and 65b may vary due to different viscosity resistance and the like.

The supply characteristics of the gear pump 51 will be described using FIGS. 34 to 37.

As shown in Fig. 34 and Fig. 35, when the gear pump 51 is rotated in the direction of the arrow, liquid is washed into the gap between the teeth of the drive gear 51a and the driven gear 51b of the gear pump 51 and the gear pump wall 55. The agent or softener rotates together with the driving gear 51 a and the driven gear 51 b, and is conveyed from the suction port 48 toward the supply pipe 54 or the discharge port 56. The suction port 48 side draws liquid detergent or softener from the tanks 32 and 33 at a low pressure, and the supply pipe 54 side draws high pressure toward the discharge port 56 to carry the liquid detergent or softener.

Here, in the gear meshing portion 52 of the driving gear 51a and the driven gear 51b, a high-pressure supply is provided from a side gap δ between the side surface of the driving gear 51a or the driven gear 51b and the facing wall surface. A flow in a direction indicated by a dotted arrow occurs on the tube 54 side toward the low-pressure suction port 48 side. This flow is a countercurrent to the flow of the liquid lotion or softener being transported from the suction side to the discharge side (hereinafter also referred to as a "side leak"). The amount of this counterflow is affected by the "variation in supply" . The side leakage is because the easier it is for the liquid to pass through the side gap δ, the lower the viscosity becomes.

Needless to say, the smaller the backflow, the "variable supply amount" decreases, so it is better to keep the side gap δ as small as possible, but it will use high-precision parts and become a high-priced structure.

On the other hand, when the components such as the gear pump 51 and the pump casing 49 are made of resin, for example, the side gap δ needs to be a gap of about 0.1 mm. The side leakage through this gap has a tendency that the lower the viscosity of the liquid, the higher, and the higher the viscosity, the lower the viscosity. If the side leakage is large, as a result, Since the supply amount discharged from the discharge port 56 decreases, the "variation in supply amount" increases.

And for the side leak, because the effect of the side clearance δ is large and the effect of the rotation speed of the gear pump 51 is small, so if the side clearance δ is the same, rotating the gear pump 51 from high speed will increase the supply speed. The smaller the ratio, the "variation in supply quantity" will decrease. Conversely, the gear pump 51 will reduce the supply speed from low-speed rotation, the greater the effect of side leakage, and the "variation in supply quantity" will increase.

On the other hand, viscous resistance occurs in the liquid conveyance path after being sucked in from the suction port 48 and discharged from the discharge port 56 through the supply pipe 54. Needless to say, the viscosity resistance has a tendency that the lower the viscosity of the liquid, the lower, and the higher the viscosity. As described above, if the supply motors 65a and 65b are DC brush motors, the rotation speed has a characteristic of a linear decrease in response to an increase in load torque. Therefore, the lower the viscosity of the liquid, the higher the rotation speed of the gear pump 51. The higher the viscosity, the more the rotation speed tends to decrease. If the rotation speed is decreased, the amount of liquid discharged from the discharge port 56 will decrease as a result, and the "variation in supply amount" will increase.

In this way, the backflow that occurs through the side gap, that is, the side leakage, has the tendency that the lower the viscosity of the liquid, the greater the decrease in the rotation speed caused by the viscous resistance, the higher the viscosity of the liquid, the greater the opposite tendency.

The effect of the "variation in supply amount" on viscosity is further explained in detail using the graph in Fig. 36. Figures 36 (a) to (c), It is an explanatory diagram exaggerating the effects of side leakage and rotation speed fluctuation caused by viscosity η.

The horizontal axis of Figs. 36 (a) to (c) shows the viscosity of the liquid. One example is a softener with a small viscosity η at the left end and the largest viscosity η at the right end. For example, the liquid lotion is kept close to ice temperature. Cooling case.

The vertical axis is a ratio showing the supply amount, there is no side leakage, and the ideal state without a decrease in the rotation speed due to viscous resistance is set to 100%, and the reduction ratio of the supply amount from there is shown.

In Figs. 36 (a) to (c), the supply motors 65a and 65b are DC motors having the same output characteristics, and the side clearance δ is the same. The reduction ratios from the supply motors 65a and 65b to the gear pump 51 are each other. Different. In the figure, the dotted line indicates the tendency of the rotation speed to change due to the viscosity, and the one-point lock line indicates the tendency to decrease the supply amount due to the side leakage. In addition, in Figs. 36 (a) to (c), since the gears having different reduction ratios make the rotation speed of the pump 51 different, the supply amounts per unit time are different from each other.

The supply amount of the gear pump 51 is a multiplication of the reduction characteristics of the rotation speed and the side leakage characteristics. As shown by the solid line, the low viscosity liquid on the left end side is dominated by the decrease in the supply quantity caused by the side leakage. The high-viscosity liquid on the right end side is dominated by the decrease in the supply amount caused by the decrease in the rotation speed, and the viscosity in the middle has a tendency that the supply amount becomes a maximum value. Therefore, the indicator showing the accuracy of the supply amount is the full viscosity range from low viscosity to high viscosity. The maximum value is taken as the maximum value. If the leakage or the decrease in the rotation speed reduces the supply amount to the minimum value as the minimum value, the difference between the maximum value and the minimum value becomes "variation in the supply amount." Needless to say, "the supply varies" is that the smaller the supply, the higher the accuracy.

Fig. 36 (a) shows a case where the reduction ratio is large. Because the output torque is large, the rotation speed of the liquid gear pump 51 with a high viscosity decreases less. Because the rotation speed is low, the side leakage of the liquid with a low viscosity is changed. Big. Because the rotation speed is low, the supply amount per unit time is minimal. The "variation in supply amount" occurs between the supply amount of the low-viscosity liquid and the maximum value of the intermediate viscosity. This characteristic (a) is not suitable for the supply of a low viscosity liquid, but is suitable for the supply of a high viscosity liquid.

Fig. 36 (c) shows the case where the reduction ratio is small. Because the output torque is small, the reduction in the rotation speed of the gear pump 51 for high-viscosity liquids becomes large. Because the rotation speed is high, it is suitable for low-viscosity liquids. Small side leakage. Because the rotation speed is high, the supply amount per unit time is the largest. The "variation in supply amount" occurs between the supply amount of the high-viscosity liquid and the maximum value of the intermediate viscosity. This characteristic (c) is not suitable for the supply of high-viscosity liquids, but is suitable for the supply characteristics of low-viscosity liquids.

Fig. 36 (b) shows the case of the middle reduction ratio of (a) (c). The reduction in the rotation speed of the gear pump 51 for high-viscosity liquids and the side leakage of low-viscosity liquids are of the same degree. The supply of high-viscosity liquids and low-viscosity liquids are almost the same. The "supply varies" is the supply of high-viscosity liquids or low-viscosity liquids. Between the maximum value of the dose and the intermediate viscosity.

With this characteristic, since the "variation in supply amount" can be minimized for the entire range from low viscosity to high viscosity, the supply accuracy can be improved and it is optimal.

Fig. 37 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of actual measured values with the reduction ratio on the horizontal axis and "variation in supply amount" on the vertical axis. For the same supply motors 65a and 65b (small DC motors), the gear pump 51 is driven through four types of reduction gears 66 with different reduction ratios, from low-viscosity softeners to ice-cooled liquid lotions. Each reduction ratio adopts a "variation in supply amount" in a viscosity range from about 20 to about 1200 mPa · s.

The reduction ratio is a low torque in the range of reduction ratios below 20. For high-viscosity lotions, because the torque is insufficient, as shown in Figure 36 (c), you can see the "supply amount" caused by the decrease in rotation speed. Increase ".

In the range of high reduction ratios of 30 or more, although the torque is high, the rotation speed is low, and the softener with low viscosity becomes insufficient. As shown in Figure 36 (a), it can be seen that the gear pump 51 Increasing side leakage has resulted in a "variable supply" increase.

On the other hand, in the range of the reduction ratio of 20 to 30, the side leakage and the variation of the rotation speed cancel each other, and the "variation in supply amount" is about 10%, which becomes almost constant, so that the supply accuracy can be ensured regardless of viscosity. The combination of the supply motors 65a, 65b and the reduction ratio. Therefore, by supplying the motors 65a, 65b and the speed reduction means 66 in this range, The combination of speed reduction ratio, the supply of high-viscosity liquid and the supply of low-viscosity liquid are almost equal. As a result, the "variation of supply amount" can be minimized, so for example, the viscosity can be about 20 to about 1200 mPa‧ Softeners up to s are supplied with high accuracy up to the lotion. In other words, since the supply amount per unit time does not depend on the viscosity of the liquid, since the drive time of the supply motors 65a and 65b is controlled, the lotions or softeners with different viscosities are only expected to be accurately accurate. Supply effect.

In addition, the lotion pump and the softener pump may have different speed reduction ratios. The lotion pump uses the speed reduction means 66 to have a high speed reduction ratio and a low torque suitable for the supply of a high viscosity liquid. The softener pump may have a characteristic of reducing the speed reduction means 66 to a low reduction ratio and low torque from a high speed suitable for the supply of a low viscosity liquid.

Alternatively, the lotion pump and the softener pump may have a configuration in which the side gap δ of the gear pump 51 is different. Since the lotion pump is unlikely to cause side leakage, a gear pump 51 having a low side gap δ with a high accuracy is also possible. On the other hand, a softener pump that is likely to generate a side leak is a gear pump with a high side gap δ having a high accuracy. 51 is ok.

As described above, in the range of the viscosity of the supplied softener and liquid lotion, by appropriately selecting the supply motors 65a, 65b and the reduction ratio, the "variation in supply amount" can be reduced, and the supply accuracy can be improved. effect.

[Eighth Embodiment]

The eighth embodiment will be described using FIG. 38.

Fig. 38 is a schematic view showing a longitudinal sectional view of a lotion tank 32, 33 of the eighth embodiment. A buoy 104 that is movably supported up and down along the pump means 47 is provided, and a magnet 105 is provided below the buoy 104. The buoy 104 includes a magnet 105 and selects a material and a volume so that the specific gravity becomes 1 or less. The magnet is, for example, a ferrite magnet. Since the specific gravity is greater than 1, the magnet faces downward when the liquid floats. Furthermore, a buoy guide 106 extending up and down is provided so that the buoy 104 can move only in the up and down direction.

A magnetic sensor 107, such as a Hall IC and a reed switch, is provided in the tank storage container 34 facing the lower surface of the buoy 104. The residual amount of lotion or softener is reduced, and the liquid level is lowered. Until H1, and the buoy 104 descends to a position close to the bottom surface 46 of the tank, it is turned on by detecting the magnetic force, and the residual amount is above a certain level. For example, when the liquid level is H2, it is caused by When the buoy 104 is raised and turned OFF, it can be detected that the remaining amount of the lotion or the softening agent is reduced.

[Ninth Embodiment]

The ninth embodiment will be described using FIG. 39. Fig. 39 (a) shows a state where the remaining amount of the lotion or softener is small, and Fig. 39 (b) shows a state where the amount of the lotion or softening agent is larger than a predetermined amount.

The difference from the eighth embodiment is the shape in which the buoy 104 extends up and down along the pumping means 47, the upper end of the buoy is extended to extend the rod 108 through the upper surfaces of the tanks 32 and 33, and a magnet is provided on the upper end of the rod 108 105, and the drive arranged above the tanks 32, 33 A portion of the magnetic sensor 107 is arranged at a position where the magnets 105 of the moving means 62 face each other.

As shown in FIG. 39 (a), when the remaining amount of the lotion is reduced and the liquid level is lowered to H1, the buoy 104 is lowered and the magnet 105 is separated from the magnetic sensor 107 and turned off. As shown in FIG. 39 (b), when the remaining amount in the tanks 32 and 33 is sufficient and the liquid level is H2 or higher, the buoy 104 rises and the magnet 105 comes into contact with the magnetic sensor 107 and becomes ON. When the magnetic sensor 107 is turned OFF, a small residual amount can be detected.

In the ninth embodiment, since the magnetic sensor 107 is disposed in the driving means 62, the wiring from the washing machine body 4 to the magnetic sensor 107 passes through the support shaft hole along with the wiring to the supply motors 65a and 65b. It is arranged in 42 places, so that the wiring 87 of the automatic washing treatment liquid feeding means 30 can be gathered in only one place, which has the advantage that the structure can be simplified.

[Tenth embodiment]

The tenth embodiment will be described using FIG. 40. Fig. 40 is a schematic view showing a longitudinal sectional view of a lotion tank 32, 33 of the tenth embodiment.

The bottom surface of the tank storage container 34 is provided with a weight sensor 109 that outputs an output signal corresponding to the load. The tanks 32 and 33 are placed on the weight sensor 109, and the output signal of the weight sensor 109 is used. A configuration in which the total weight of the tank itself and the lotion inside the tank can be detected. Can be measured from the total weight of lotion or softener and tank, and in advance The difference between the weight of the tank itself is measured, and the weight of the lotion or softener is measured. If the weight of the measured lotion or softener is smaller than a predetermined value, it can be judged that the residual amount is small.

As described above, in the eighth embodiment to the tenth embodiment, the remaining amount of the lotion or the softener can be detected to be small.

[Eleventh embodiment]

Next, the eleventh embodiment will be described using FIGS. 41 and 42. Fig. 41 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a control circuit of a washing machine of the seventh to tenth embodiments, and Fig. 42 is a control flowchart showing the control structure of the washing machine of the seventh to tenth embodiments.

The block diagram shown in FIG. 41 is different from the block diagram of the first embodiment shown in FIG. 15 in that the supply motor 65 is not a type 1, but includes a lotion supply motor 65a and a softener supply motor 65b. Type 2 includes a drive circuit 154 corresponding to each of the supply motors 65a and 65b.

In addition, the lotion remaining amount detecting means 79a and the softener remaining amount detecting means 79b may have the configurations described in the eighth to tenth embodiments.

The difference between the control flowchart shown in FIG. 42 and the control flowchart of the first embodiment shown in FIG. 16 is that after the automatic dispensation of the lotion is set in step S109 and the processing is divided, in step S110, Before the lotion supply motor 65a forwardly supplies the lotion, the point at which the lotion supply motor 65a is reversely initialized in step S109a, and before the softener supply motor 65b is supplied in the normal direction at step S116, In step S116a, the point at which the softener supply motor 65b is reversed and initialized is performed.

Next, an initializing operation when the supply motors 65a and 65b are driven and the pump means 47 is driven to start the supply of the lotion or softener from the inside of the tubs 32 and 33 will be described.

First, at the time when the previous washing was performed and the supply operation was terminated, the supply motors 65a and 65b were stopped after supplying a predetermined amount of lotion or softener, so the lotion or softener was the liquid from the tanks 32 and 33. The surface of the supply pipe 54 is fully charged up to the discharge port 56, but thereafter, the outside air gradually intrudes from the discharge port 56 into the supply pipe 54, and the liquid level in the supply pipe 54 may drop to As long as the liquid level in the tanks 32 and 33 is the same, it is impossible to determine what kind of state it is.

The liquid level of the lotion or softener is different depending on the remaining amount in the tanks 32 and 33. Therefore, the volume of the lotion or softener remaining in the supply pipe 54 is a minimum of close to zero and a maximum of a full supply. The amount of tube 54 varies. That is, even if the gear pump 51 supplies a predetermined amount, the supply amount supplied from the discharge port 56 varies depending on the amount of the lotion or softener remaining in the supply pipe 54, and therefore there is a problem that the accuracy of the supply amount is reduced.

As described above, when only a predetermined amount of lotion is supplied, for example, the voltage applied to the supply motor 65 becomes constant to determine the rotation speed of the supply motor 65, and the driving time of the supply motor 65 is adjusted to a predetermined time. A configuration in which the number of rotations of the gear is a predetermined value so that a desired amount of lotion can be supplied. Here, the inside of the supply pipe 54 is washed by When the agent or softener is filled, the expected amount is supplied to the input area 39, but when the air enters the supply pipe 54 and the liquid level is lowered, it is until the supply pipe 54 is filled. Since no lotion or softener is supplied, the supply amount supplied from the discharge port 56 to the input area 39 is obtained by subtracting the amount supplied from the gear pump 51 to the supply pipe 54 until the inside of the supply pipe 54 is filled. The amount of the amount.

However, if it is determined in advance that the amount filled in the supply pipe 54 is a certain amount, if the predetermined amount is added from the gear pump 51 to the predetermined amount, the expected amount is supplied from the discharge port 56 to the input area 39. . Here, before the lotion or softener is supplied, the supply motors 65a and 65b are reversely rotated, and the gear pump 51 is reversed, so that the lotion or softener in the supply pipe 54 reaches the inside of the tubs 32 and 33 and flows backward. In this case, because the liquid level is lowered to the height of the gear pump 51, that is, near the bottom surface of the tanks 32 and 33, if the supply motors 65a and 65b are then rotated forward, the lotion can be removed from the supply pipe 54 each time. Or softener.

Here, when the lotion or softener is reversely flowed into the tubs 32 and 33 from the inside of the supply pipe 54 during the reverse operation, the liquid level in the supply pipe 54 can be reliably lowered to the height of the gear pump 51. Therefore, the method of determining the operation amount of the gear pump 51 in the reverse rotation operation larger than the volume in the supply pipe 54 has the effect of improving the accuracy of the supply amount.

As described above, once the gear pump 51 is reversed and the lotion or softener in the supply pipe 54 is evacuated, it is called "initialization" Case.

When the supply amount of lotion or softener is set in step 108, by adding the volume in the supply pipe 54 to the desired amount, the supply amount supplied from the discharge port 56 to the input area 39 can be approximated to the desired amount. It reduces the error in the supply amount and supplies lotions or softeners with high accuracy.

The "initialization" operation described here may be performed when the supply of the lotion or the softener is completed, or may be performed before the supply of the lotion or the softener.

In the case where the liquid level is lowered after the supply is reversed, there will be, for example, about 1 day until the next washing start, so there is a lot of detergent or softener gradually from the gap of the gear pump 51 every time. It enters into the supply pipe 54 and raises the liquid level to the same level as the liquid level inside the tank.

On the other hand, if the "initialization" operation is performed before the lotion or softening agent is supplied, the gear pump 51 is reversed and the inside of the supply pipe 54 is evacuated and then the supply operation can be performed. Therefore, the state at the start point of the supply operation becomes It is always constant, so it is possible to further reduce the error in the amount of supply, and it is optimal to supply lotions or softeners with high accuracy.

Here, the viscosity range from the softener with the lowest viscosity to the liquid detergent with the highest viscosity minimizes the difference between the maximum supply amount and the minimum supply amount per unit time, that is, the "variation in supply amount", regardless of viscosity. A configuration that supplies a constant amount of supply is preferred.

Furthermore, when supplementing lotions or softeners, or When the buckets 32 and 33 are removed by cleaning, the driving means 62 is opened to the rear along with the bucket lid 31, and the coupling receiving portion 64 that transmits the driving force to the pump means 47 through the coupling 61 is exposed. In front of the opened driving means 62. When a lotion or a softener adheres to the coupling receiving part 64, it has a problem that it penetrates from the gap of the outer periphery of the coupling receiving part 64 or adheres to the inside of the driving means 62, and prevents transmission of a driving force.

[Twelfth embodiment]

Next, a twelfth embodiment will be described with reference to Figs. 43 to 44. FIG. 43 is a perspective view showing the configuration of the automatic washing treatment liquid charging means according to the twelfth embodiment, with the tank lid 31 opened. Fig. 44 is a schematic longitudinal sectional view, Fig. 44 (a) is a state in which the tank lid 31 is closed, and Fig. 44 (b) is a state in which the tank lid 31 is opened and closed to a halfway point, and Fig. 44 ( c) The tank lid body 31 is opened.

The twelfth embodiment differs from the seventh embodiment in that it is movably supported along a guide groove 117 provided in the driving means 62, and is openable and closable along a surface facing the coupling receiving portion 64 side of the driving means 62 When the driving means 62 is opened together with the tank lid body 31, the sliding cover 110 is configured to cover the coupling receiving portion 64.

The coupling receiving portion 64 is a transmission member that transmits the driving force from the driving means 62 to the driving force of the coupling 61. Therefore, the lotion and the softener pass from the gap between the rotation shaft and the outer periphery of the coupling receiving portion 64 toward the driving means. If the inside of 62 is intruded, it has a driving force that is hindered by adhesion. Communicate the situation. Here, when the tank lid body 31 is opened, the lotion and the softener are preferably covered without dripping onto the coupling receiving portion 64.

The slide cover 110 is slidably supported in the direction of the arrow along the guide grooves 117 provided on the left and right sides of the driving means 62, and one end of the connecting portion 111 provided on the left and right ends of the slide cover 110 is rotatably movable. That is, the connecting link 112 is pivotally supported. The other end of the connecting link 112 is rotatably supported by a connecting link fulcrum 113 provided in the tank storage container 34, and the sliding cover 110 is guided along the guide groove 117 in conjunction with the opening and closing operation of the tank cover 31. mobile.

This operation will be described with reference to FIG. 44. In the state where the tank lid 31 shown in FIG. 44 (a) is closed, the slide cover 110 is positioned to move forward, and the coupling receiving portion 64 is not blocked. The slide cover 110 fits into the coupling 61 provided in the tanks 32 and 33 so as to transmit power from the coupling receiving portion 64 to the coupling 61.

In the middle of the opening operation of the tank lid body 31 shown in FIG. 44 (b), the sliding cover 110 is moved toward the cover body fulcrum 42a by the action of the connecting link 112, that is, the coupling is covered. The receiving portion 64 moves in the direction.

In the open state of the tank lid body 31 shown in FIG. 44 (c), the slide cover 110 is a position to cover the coupler receiving portion 64. In the state shown in FIG. 43 or FIG. 44 (c), the coupling receiving portion 64 is covered by the sliding cover 110. Therefore, when the tanks 32 and 33 are attached or detached, or when lotion or softener is replenished, It is best to prevent lotion or softener from adhering to the coupling receiving portion 64.

[Thirteenth embodiment]

The thirteenth embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 45. Fig. 45 is a schematic longitudinal sectional view showing the configuration of the automatic washing treatment liquid feeding means of the thirteenth embodiment. Fig. 45 (a) is a state in which the tank lid 31 is closed, and Fig. 45 (b) is a state in which the tank is closed. Fig. 45 (c) shows the state of the tub lid body 31 in the middle of opening and closing, and the tank lid body 31 is opened.

A point different from the twelfth embodiment is that instead of the slide cover 110, a swing cover 115 is rotatably supported by a shaft around the swing cover fulcrum 114 provided on the tank cover 31. Further equipped with a connecting link 112, one end of which is rotatably supported around the connecting link fulcrum 113 of the tank storage container 34, and the other end of which is rotatably connected to the connecting portion 111 and the swing cover 115 The ground support is supported by the shaft, and the swing lid 115 is opened and closed in conjunction with the opening and closing operation of the tank lid body 31.

As shown in FIG. 45 (a), when the tank lid body 31 is closed, the swing cover 115 is located at a position rotated forward, so that the coupling receiving portion 64 is not covered with the swing cover 115 and is provided on the swing cover 115. The couplings 61 of the tanks 32 and 33 are fitted, and power can be transmitted from the coupling receiving portion 64 to the coupling 61.

In the middle of the opening operation of the tank lid body 31 shown in FIG. 45 (b), the swing lid 115 is moved toward the lid body fulcrum 42a by the action of the connecting link 112, that is, the coupling receiving portion 64 The direction of coverage is turned. As shown in FIG. 45 (c), in the open state of the tank lid body 31, the swing cover 115 is a position to cover the coupling receiving portion 64. As in the twelfth embodiment, since it is possible to prevent the lotion or softener from adhering to the coupling receiving portion 64, it is optimal.

Here, the viscosity range from the softener with the lowest viscosity to the liquid detergent with the highest viscosity minimizes the difference between the maximum supply amount and the minimum supply amount per unit time, that is, the "variation in supply amount", regardless of viscosity. A configuration that supplies a constant amount of supply is preferred.

Furthermore, since the amount of lotion or softener remaining in the pump means 47 after supplying the lotion or softener is different, there is a problem that an error in the amount of supply occurs due to the difference in the amount.

[14th embodiment]

A fourteenth embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 46. Fig. 46 is a control flowchart showing the operation of the washing machine.

Step S101

Check the status and initial settings of the washer-dryer.

Step S102

The display 114 of the operation panel 106 is turned on, and according to the instruction input from an operation button switch (not shown), it is set whether or not the lotion and the softener are automatically injected. When the automatic charging is set, the lotion and softener are automatically charged in the following washing process. On the other hand, when automatic charging is not set, the user manually puts the lotion and softener into the lotion input port 25, and the lotion and softener supply motor 65 is not driven.

Step S103

The process is monitored by monitoring the instruction input of a start switch (not shown) from the operation panel 106.

Step S104

Whether the automatic lotion injection is set is divided.

Step S105

When the lotion is automatically set, the remaining amount of lotion is confirmed based on the output of the lotion remaining amount detecting means 79a, and the processing is divided.

Step S106

When the lotion is automatically set, the remaining amount of the softener is confirmed based on the output of the softener remaining amount detecting means 79b, and the processing is divided.

Step S107

The rotating drum 20 is rotated. At this time, the rotation driving torque generated in the motor 8 is measured from the current value required to drive the motor 8 and the amount of cloth put into the rotating drum 20 is determined.

Step S108

The supply amount of lotion and softener is set based on the discriminant value of the cloth amount.

Step S109

The water supply solenoid valve 116 is opened to supply water, and is supplied into the water tank 17 through the first lotion supply pipe 14. When the lotion is manually injected into the lotion inlet 25, the lotion that is manually input is supplied into the water tank 17 as the lotion liquid while being dissolved in water.

Step S110

It is determined whether the lotion is manually input into the water tank 17, that is, whether the lotion is manually input from the lotion input port 25. This is judged from the electrical conductivity detected by the electrode sensor 93. This process is performed in the water supply implementation of step S109, and the operation time can be shortened.

Step S111

The processing is divided depending on whether or not the automatic lotion feeding by the washing treatment liquid automatic feeding means 30 is set.

Step S112

When the lotion is not manually input from the lotion inlet 25, when the lotion is automatically set to ON, the supply motor 65 is driven in the forward direction for a predetermined time to drive the washing in the lotion tank 32. The agent is supplied to a predetermined amount in the input area 39. When the automatic lotion is not set, this step is not performed. By performing the lotion supplied to the input area 39 in the water supply implementation of step S109, it can be supplied to the inside of the water tank 17 while melt | dissolving in water.

Step S113

When the lotion is not manually input from the lotion inlet 25, and the automatic lotion is turned off, the lotion is automatically turned to the ON setting, and the supply motor 65 is turned to the positive position. The rotation direction drives the supply of the lotion in the lotion tank 32 to a predetermined amount in the input area 39 for a predetermined time.

Step S114

When the lotion is manually input from the lotion inlet 25, the lotion is automatically set to the ON setting, the lotion is automatically changed to the OFF setting, and the lotion is not automatically put in. The lotion by means 30 is automatically injected.

Step S112-1

It is determined whether or not the lotion is put into the water tank 17. This is judged from the electrical conductivity detected by the electrode sensor 93.

Step S112-2

If the judgment result of S112-1 is NO, that is, when the lotion is not supplied into the water tank 17, even if there is a residual amount of the washing liquid in the lotion tank 32, it can still be determined that the washing treatment liquid is automatically injected. The means 30 does not operate normally (the automatic feeding means of the washing treatment liquid is abnormal). When it is judged that the automatic washing liquid feeding means is abnormal, for example, by reporting to the user Knowing the alarm and promoting manual lotion input can avoid the end of washing without sufficient washing. In addition, it is also possible to set a manual lotion standby time in the notification alarm.

Step S115

The washing process is performed. After the end, the drain valve 8 is opened to drain the washing water, and then the rotary drum 20 is rotated at a high speed to perform centrifugal dehydration.

Step S116

The water supply solenoid valve 116 is opened to supply water, and the washing water is supplied into the water tank 17.

Step S117

The washing process is performed. After the end, the drain valve 8 is opened to drain the washing water, and then the rotary drum 20 is rotated at a high speed to perform centrifugal dehydration.

Step S118

It is determined whether the softener is manually input into the water tank 17, that is, whether the lotion is manually input from the lotion input port 25. This is judged from the electrical conductivity detected by the electrode sensor 93.

Step S119

The processing is divided according to whether or not the automatic softener feeding by the washing treatment liquid automatic feeding means 30 is set. This process is performed by During the implementation of the water supply in S116, the operating time can be shortened.

Step S120

When the softener is not manually input from the lotion inlet 25, the softener is automatically set to the ON setting, and the supply motor 65 is driven in the reverse direction for a predetermined time to drive the softener in the softener tank 33 toward Supply a predetermined amount in the input area 39. This step is not performed when the softener automatic input is not set. By performing the water supply operation in step S116, the softener supplied to the input area 39 can be supplied into the water tank 17 while being dissolved in the water.

Step S121

When the softener is not manually input from the lotion inlet 25, and when the automatic softener input is turned OFF, the softener is automatically switched to the ON setting and the supply motor 65 is turned to the positive position. The rotation direction drives the supply of the lotion in the lotion tank 32 to a predetermined amount in the input area 39 for a predetermined time.

Step S122

When the softener is manually input from the lotion inlet 25, the softener is automatically set to the ON setting, the softener is automatically changed to the OFF setting, and the automatic washing liquid is not input. The softener by means 30 is automatically injected.

Step S120-1

It is determined whether a softening agent has been put into the water tank 17 or not. This is judged from the electrical conductivity detected by the electrode sensor 93.

Step S120-2

If the determination result in step S120-1 is no, that is, when the softener is not supplied into the water tank 17, even if there is a residual amount of the washing liquid in the lotion tank 32, it can still be determined that the washing treatment liquid is automatically The feeding means 30 does not operate normally (the automatic washing means feeding means is abnormal). When it is judged that the automatic feeding means of the washing treatment liquid is abnormal, by notifying the user of the alarm and promoting the manual input of the softener, it is possible to avoid the end of the washing when the softener effect is insufficient. In addition, it is also possible to set the softener manual standby time in the notification alarm.

Step S124

The final washing process is performed, and after the end, the drain valve 8 is opened to drain the washing water.

Step S125

The rotary drum 20 is rotated at a high speed for final dehydration.

Step S126

The end of the washing process.

As mentioned above, it will be When the supplied lotion and softening agent are correctly supplied into the water tank 17, it can be confirmed by the electrode sensor 93 that it is possible to determine whether an abnormality occurs in the automatic washing treatment liquid injection means 30. At this time, it can be determined whether or not there is an abnormality in the gear pump 51 by detecting that the current value supplied to the motor 65 exceeds a predetermined value. For example, when a foreign object enters the gear pump 51, the driving torque supplied to the motor increases, and the current value increases.

Moreover, although the above-mentioned embodiment demonstrated the example of the drum type washing machine, this invention is not limited to this, It is applicable to a vertical type washing machine.

<Effect>

As described above, the supply motors 65a and 65b are DC brush motors. By appropriately setting the reduction ratio from the supply motors 65a and 65b to the gear pump 51, it can be constructed inexpensively, and it has the flexibility from the smallest viscosity The viscosity range from the agent to the most viscous liquid lotion minimizes the difference between the maximum supply amount and the minimum supply amount per unit time, that is, the "variation in supply amount", and can supply a substantially constant supply amount regardless of viscosity. effect.

Further, when supplying lotion or softener, once the gear pump 51 is reversed, the "initialization" operation of evacuating the lotion or softener in the supply pipe 54 is performed, and then the supply operation is performed, even if the When the amount of lotion or softener is different, there is also an effect that a substantially constant supply amount can be supplied.

Furthermore, by providing a sliding cover 111 or a swing cover 115 on the coupling receiving portion 64 side of the driving means 62, it is possible to prevent: Adhesion of the lotion or softener of the connector receiving portion 64 or intrusion and adhesion into the driving means 62 from a gap on the outer periphery of the connector receiving portion 64 has the effect of preventing transmission of the driving force from being hindered.

1‧‧‧ base

2‧‧‧ frame

3‧‧‧ cover

4‧‧‧washing machine body

6‧‧‧ operation panel

7‧‧‧ water supply faucet

18‧‧‧ front cover

19‧‧‧back cover

25‧‧‧ lotion inlet

30‧‧‧Automatic input means for washing treatment liquid

31‧‧‧Tank lid body

32‧‧‧ lotion tank (first tank)

33‧‧‧ Softener tank (second tank)

Claims (8)

A washing machine includes a frame body, a water tank provided inside the frame body, and a washing treatment liquid supply means for supplying washing treatment liquids having different viscosities from the lowest viscosity to the highest viscosity into the water tank, and the washing treatment liquid supply means And provided with a tank holding the washing treatment liquid inside, a transfer pump that transports the washing treatment liquid from the inside of the tank to the outside of the tank, and generating a driving force for driving the washing pump In the pump driving method, the transfer pump is a gear pump, and the supply amount of the washing treatment liquid having different viscosities is made substantially constant. The reduction ratio of the transfer pump is 20 or more and 30 or less. For example, the washing machine according to the first patent application range, wherein the transport amount per unit time of the processing solution with the lowest viscosity and the transport amount per unit time of the processing solution with the highest viscosity are substantially the same. For example, the washing machine according to claim 1, wherein the pump driving means further includes a motor for generating a rotational driving force and a deceleration means for transmitting the rotational driving force of the motor to the transport pump in a decelerating manner, The aforementioned motor is a DC brush motor. A washing machine includes a housing, a water tank provided inside the housing, and a washing treatment liquid supply means for supplying a washing treatment liquid into the water tank. The washing treatment liquid supply means includes: holding the washing treatment liquid at An internal tank, a transfer pump that transports the washing treatment liquid from the inside of the tank, a supply path that transports the transport pump from the transfer pump to the outside of the tank, and generates a drive for driving the transfer pump. The driving means of the pump driving means and the control means for controlling the pump driving means, and the transfer pump drives the washing treatment liquid from the inside of the tub through the supply path to the outside of the tub when driving in the first direction. When the conveyor is driven in the second direction opposite to the first direction, the washing treatment liquid remaining in the supply path is transferred from the supply path to the inside of the tank. The control means is to move the transfer pump toward After driving in the second direction, driving in the first direction to drive the washing treatment liquid from the inside of the tank to the tank External far handling. For example, in the washing machine according to claim 4, the amount of the washing treatment liquid transferred by the transfer pump when driven in the second direction is larger than the volume of the supply path. A washing machine includes a housing, a water tank provided inside the housing, and a washing treatment liquid supply means for supplying a washing treatment liquid into the water tank. The washing treatment liquid supply means includes: holding the washing treatment liquid at An internal tank, a transfer pump that transports the washing treatment liquid from the inside of the tank to the outside of the tank, and a driving force for driving the transfer pump to generate an open position and a closed position. A pump driving means supported on and off and a connecting means capable of connecting and separating the pump driving means and the transfer pump, and the connecting means further includes a coupling provided in the transfer pump and transmitting a driving force toward the transfer pump Means; and a coupling receiving means provided in the pump driving means, in the closed position of the pump driving means, engaged with the coupling means to transmit a driving force toward the coupling means; and in the coupling receiving means Supported freely between the open first position and the second position covered by the aforementioned coupling receiving means And a lid interlocking means that moves the lid means in conjunction with the opening and closing of the pump driving means. For example, in the washing machine according to claim 6, the cover interlocking means uses the cover means as the first position in the closed position of the pump driving means, and sets the cover means in the open position of the pump driving means. Acts as the aforementioned second position. For example, the washing machine according to item 6 of the patent application, wherein the cover means is slidable between the first position and the second position.