TWI732063B - washing machine - Google Patents

Abstract

The present invention is characterized by comprising: a washing machine body; a water tank supported inside the washing machine body and having a drain at the bottom; and a heater unit arranged below the water tank and communicating with the inner bottom of the water tank. In addition, the heater unit has: a heater accommodating container that houses a heater for heating the washing water; and a plurality of water channels that connect the bottom of the water tank with the heater accommodating container, and the plurality of water channels are respectively provided in, The position where the temperature of the washing water is different when the heater is turned on.

Description

washing machine

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

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION In the past, such washing machines, as disclosed in Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2005-512742, are equipped with a heating water generator, which activates the detergent by heating the washing water to improve the cleaning power.

Fig. 18 is a perspective view of a sink in a conventional washing machine. Fig. 19 is a perspective view of the bottom surface of the water tank in a state where the heater of the conventional washing machine is removed. Fig. 20 is a configuration diagram of the main parts of the heater assembly showing a state in which the heater is installed at the bottom of the water tank in the conventional washing machine.

In FIG. 18, the washing machine body (not shown in the figure) is suspended and supported inside the sink 200 by a suspension system (not shown in the figure). Inside the water tank 200, a washing machine and dehydration tank (not shown) are rotatably arranged.

The inner bottom of the water tank 200 has a bulging part 210 that bulges downward, and a heater 220 composed of a sheath heater or the like is housed in the bulging part 210. In addition, a drainage port 213 is formed below the bulging portion 210. Furthermore, the heater assembly 211 constituting the heated water generating device includes: a bulging part 210 formed at least on the outer bottom surface of the water tank 200; a heater 220 arranged in the bulging part 210; and a supporting member 240 arranged in the bulging part 210 Between the outlet 210 and the heater 220.

In the above configuration, the operation of the soaking step of the conventional washing machine will be explained.

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

Next, in order to dissolve the detergent, the washing and dehydration tank will perform a low-speed rotating water supply and stirring.

After that, a soaking step is performed, and the soaking step is to heat the washing water for a long time by heating the heater 220.

Through this soaking step, the detergent will be activated due to the rise in the temperature of the washing water, and the washing can be effectively carried out.

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

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

When the heater 220 is installed in the water tank 200, the heating part 221 of the heater 220 is inserted into the inside of the bulging part 210 from the opening 230 in the lower part of the water tank 200 from the outside of the water tank 200. By inserting the heater 220 into the supporting member 240 in the bulging part 210, the heater 220 can be stably supported so as not to move. After the insertion of the heater 220 is completed, the fixing heater 220 is locked with the nut of the washing and dehydrating tank, and the heater 220 will be firmly supported and fixed in the bulging part 210.

On the other hand, when the heater assembly 211 is maintained, the heater 220 can be separated from the water tank 200 by a method opposite to the above-mentioned installation operation. That is, by loosening the screw cap and pulling the heater 220 out of the bulging part 210, the heater 220 can be extracted from the bulging part 210 and can be separated from the water tank 200.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION In the conventional structure, it is necessary to extract the heater 220 from the bulging part 210 when the heater assembly 211 is maintained. However, since a washing and dehydration tank is arranged inside the water tank 200, when the heater 220 is inserted from the outside of the water tank 200, the inside of the water tank 200 cannot be seen, and it is impossible to confirm whether the heater 220 has been installed in the water tank 200. The support member 240 on the bottom surface. In addition, since the heater 220 must be inserted into the water tank 200 when the position of the support member 240 inside the water tank 200 cannot be confirmed, there is a concern that the heater 220 may collide with the support member 240 and be damaged.

In this way, in the washing machine of the conventional configuration, there is a problem in the convenience when maintaining the heated water generating device (the heater assembly in the above-mentioned prior art).

The washing machine of the present invention is configured to include: a washing machine body; a sink supported inside the washing machine body and having a drain port at the bottom; and a drain cock unit connected to the drain port of the sink. In addition, the drain cock unit is connected to the heater unit, and the heater unit communicates with the bottom of the water tank. The heater unit contains a heater for heating the washing water and forms a water path communicating with the bottom of the water tank, and the water path is connected to the bottom of the water tank. The drain cock valve unit opens at a position where the water temperature of the washing water is different from the heater unit.

With this configuration, since the heater unit and the water tank are installed independently, it is possible to easily check or maintain the internal state of the heater unit.

In addition, the washing machine related to the present invention is configured to include: a washing machine body; a sink supported inside the washing machine body and having a drain port at the bottom; a drain cock unit connected to the drain port of the sink; and a heater unit connected to The drain cock unit is connected with the inner bottom of the water tank. In addition, the heater unit has a heater accommodating container that houses a heater for heating the washing water inside, and the bottom surface of the inner wall of the heater accommodating container gradually slopes downward toward the drain cock unit.

With this configuration, the heater unit can be easily maintained, and since the washing water in the heater storage container flows toward the drain cock unit during draining, the washing in the heater storage container can be suppressed during draining. Retention of water or foreign objects.

In addition, the washing machine related to the present invention is configured to include: a washing machine body with an openable and closable inspection port for inspecting the inside; a sink supported inside the washing machine body and having a drain port at the bottom; a drain cock unit for draining water from the sink Port connection; and heater unit, connected to the drain cock valve unit, and communicated with the inner bottom of the water tank. In addition, the heater unit has: a heater accommodating container with an opening at one end; a heater installed in the heater accommodating container to heat the washing water; and a cover body installed to open and close the opening of the heater accommodating container. In addition, the heater unit is attached to the bottom of the water tank with the opening of the heater storage container facing the inspection port.

With this structure, by removing the cover from the heater storage container, even when the heater storage container is installed on the bottom of the water tank, the state of the inside of the heater storage container can be easily confirmed, and the heater storage container can be easily checked. To confirm the internal state of the heated water generator.

In addition, in the configuration of the heater 220 of the conventional washing machine, since the support member 240 responsible for alleviating the radiant heat of the heater 220 is fixed by screwing to the sink 200, there have been times when the sink 200 starts from The hole caused by the melting of the screw leads to the problem of water leakage and damage.

The washing machine related to the present invention is configured to include: a washing machine body; a sink supported inside the washing machine body and having a drain port at the bottom; a drain cock unit connected to the drain port of the sink; and a heater unit connected to the drain cock The valve unit is connected with the inner bottom of the water tank. In addition, the heater unit has: a heater accommodating container with an opening at the first end; a heater installed in the heater accommodating container to heat the washing water; a sheet metal member located between the heater accommodating container and the heater, It is roughly U-shaped. In addition, a certain gap is formed on the side surface of the sheet metal member and inserted into the heater accommodating container from the opening on the first end side of the heater accommodating container. The heater accommodating container corresponds to the gap of the sheet metal member and is inserted in the sheet metal member A belt-shaped rib is formed extending in the direction. In addition, the end of the band-shaped rib on the first end side is formed to be narrower than the gap on the side surface of the sheet metal member, and the second end of the band-shaped rib facing the first end is formed to be wider than the gap on the side surface of the sheet metal member. width.

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

In addition, the washing machine according to the present invention is configured to include a washing machine body; a sink supported inside the washing machine body and having a drain port at the bottom; and a drain cock unit connected to the drain port of the sink. It also includes a heater unit connected to the drain cock unit and communicating with the inner bottom of the water tank; and a heater built in the heater unit to heat the washing water, and the drain port is formed in a substantially elliptical shape.

With this configuration, the heater unit can be easily maintained, and the area of the drain can be enlarged without high mold investment, so the washing water in the sink and the heater container can be made efficient at low cost地圈。 Ground loop.

Modes for Carrying Out the Invention Hereinafter, the embodiments will be described in detail with reference to appropriate drawings. However, detailed descriptions beyond necessary are sometimes omitted. For example, detailed descriptions of items that have been fully understood or repeated descriptions of substantially the same constitution are sometimes omitted. This is to prevent the following description from becoming unnecessarily lengthy and easy to understand by those skilled in the art.

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

1-1. Composition 1-1-1. Composition of washing machine 1-1-2. Composition of heater unit 1-2. Operation of washing machine 1-3. Flow of washing water in heater unit 1-4. Check the status of the heater unit and how to maintain it 1-5. The water temperature detection method in the water tank 2. The second embodiment

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

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

Fig. 1 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the washing machine in this embodiment.

In FIG. 1, the washing machine body 11 is suspending and vibration-proof supporting the sink 13 by the suspension system 12 inside. In the interior of the water tank 13, a washing and dehydration tank 15 having both a washing tank and a dehydration tank is rotatably provided. A pulsator 18 is rotatably arranged at the bottom of the washing and dehydration tank 15.

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

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

An upper frame 25 is arranged on the upper part of the washing machine body 11. At approximately the center of the upper frame 25, there is formed a laundry inlet/outlet 26 for connecting the washing and dehydration tank 15 to the outside. The laundry inlet/outlet 26 is covered by a door 27 and can be opened and closed freely. An operation display unit 29 is arranged on the rear side of the upper housing 25, and the operation display unit 29 performs various input settings and displays the setting contents. Inside the upper frame 25 on the rear side, a water supply valve 30 or a water injection tank 31 that can be opened and closed by electromagnetic force is arranged.

Inside the washing machine body 11, a control device (not shown) with a control device (not shown) is arranged. The control device controls the motor 21, etc., successively controlling a series of steps of washing, washing, and dehydrating, or control The temperature of the laundry water.

A fluid balancer 16 is arranged on the upper part of the washing and dehydration tank 15. On the back of the washing machine body 11, a back plate 17 is detachably arranged to cover the back opening (inspection port) 11a.

Fig. 2 is a perspective view of the bottom surface of the sink of the washing machine in this embodiment, and an exploded perspective view of a heater unit. As shown in FIG. 2, the bottom of the water tank 13 has a first drain port 33a and a second drain port 33b. [1-1-2. Composition of heater unit]

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

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

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

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

Hereinafter, each part will be explained. [A. Heater storage container 37]

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

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

A drain cock connection opening 37a communicating with the drain cock valve unit 34 is formed in the vicinity of the sheet metal member insertion opening 37c of the side surface adjacent to the surface having the outflow path portion 37g. The drain cock unit 34 and the heater storage container 37 are installed so as to be detachable by screwing (not shown) or the like.

As shown in FIG. 2, the drain cock unit 34 is welded and fixed by a welding boss 45 at a position where the inflow port 34 a communicates with the first drain port 33 a at the bottom of the water tank 13. The water tank 13 and the heater storage container 37 are communicated and connected through the drain cock unit 34. As shown in FIGS. 2, 3, 4, and 5B, the drain cock unit 34 has a drain path side opening 34c. The drain path side opening 34c is connected to the drain path 41 (refer to FIG. 1). By opening the drain valve (not shown) of the drain cock unit 34, the washing water in the water tank 13 and the heater storage container 37 will be drained to the outside of the washing machine body 11 through the drain path 41.

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

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

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

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

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

The fixing method of the sheet metal member 36 and the heater accommodating container 37 is demonstrated using FIG. 6, FIG. 7, and FIG. 8. FIG.

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

As shown in Figures 7 and 8, in the state where the sheet metal member 36 is inserted into the heater storage container 37, the width W of the strip-shaped rib 37d at the position where the sheet metal member 36 abuts is formed to change from the rear side to the front side. width.

The width dimension W1 at the end of the sheet metal member insertion opening 37c side (rear side) of the band-shaped rib 37d of FIG. 8 is formed to be larger than the interval width of the partition 36a in the state where the sheet metal member 36 is housed in the heater storage container 37 Narrower. The width dimension W2 of the heater insertion opening 37b side (front side) end of the belt-shaped rib 37d of FIG. 8 is formed to be larger than the interval width of the partition 36a in the state where the sheet metal member 36 is housed in the heater accommodating container 37 width. Also, as shown in FIG. 9, as the sheet metal member insertion opening 37c side (rear side) approaches the heater insertion opening 37b side (front side), the lower surface 39a of the inner wall of the heater storage container 37 moves toward The upper surface 39b of the inner wall gradually slopes downward. Therefore, as the sheet metal member 36 is inserted from the sheet metal member insertion opening 37c side (rear side) toward the heater insertion opening 37b side (front side), the interval width of the partition 36a becomes narrower.

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

In this embodiment, although the sheet metal member 36 is formed by spot welding two sheets of sheet metal, for example, it may be formed by forming one sheet of metal. [C. Heater 38]

The heater 38 will be described using FIG. 2.

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

The heater 38 is composed of a heating portion 38a, a terminal portion 38b, and a connecting portion 38c.

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

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

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

In addition, as shown in FIG. 2, a temperature detection unit 56 is arranged in the connection portion 38 c, and the temperature detection unit 56 measures the temperature of the water in the heater storage container 37. The temperature detection unit 56 is composed of a thermistor or the like. [D. Lid 51]

As shown in FIGS. 9 and 10, the cover 51 is detachably covered with the opening 37c for inserting the sheet metal member of the heater storage container 37 by screwing (not shown).

In order to remove the lid 51 to confirm the inside of the heater storage container 37 and perform maintenance of the heater unit 32, the sheet metal member insertion opening 37c covered by the lid 51 is provided in the washing machine body 11 with a rear opening. The back side of the part 11a.

The opening 37 c for inserting the sheet metal member covered by the lid 51 is attached to a position facing the heater 38 inserted into the heater storage container 37. With this configuration, the lid 51 is removed from the heater storage container 37, and the state of the heater 38 can be easily seen.

The lid 51 is formed with an inclined rib 51 a (convex rib) that pushes the sheet metal member 36 inserted into the heater storage container 37 toward the inner wall surface of the heater storage container 37. The inclined rib 51a (convex rib) has an inclined surface facing the sheet metal member 36 stored in the heater storage container 37, and the inclined surface is inclined from the front side to the rear side of FIG. 9 to approach the inner wall surface of the heater storage container 37. . With this configuration, the sheet metal member insertion opening 37c side (rear side) end of the sheet metal member 36 inserted into the heater storage container 37 is directed toward the lower surface 39a of the inner wall by the inclined rib 51a (convex rib) And the upper surface 39b of the inner wall expands. The sheet metal member insertion opening 37c side (rear side) end of the sheet metal member 36 inserted into the heater storage container 37 expands toward the inner wall lower surface 39a and the inner wall upper surface 39b by the inclined rib 51a.

In the state where the heater storage container 37 is installed at the bottom of the water tank 13, the inner wall lower surface 39a and the inner wall upper surface 39b of the heater storage container 37 are extended with ribs 37e supporting the sheet metal member 36 (see FIG. 7). The rib 37e prevents the heat of the sheet metal member 36 heated by the heater 38 from being directly transmitted to the inner wall lower surface 39a and the inner wall upper surface 39b.

With this configuration, when the sheet metal member 36 is inserted into the heater storage container 37, the cover 51 covers the sheet metal member insertion opening 37c, and the sheet metal member 36 is covered by the inclined ribs 51a and 37e. Support fixed. Therefore, the sheet metal member 36 is suppressed from wobbling in the heater storage container 37.

In this way, the heater unit 32 is constructed. [1-2. Running action of washing machine]

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

The user opens the door 27, puts the laundry into the washing and dehydration tank 15 from the laundry input and extraction port 26, then closes the door 27, and then operates the operation display part 29 to start the warm water washing process.

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

Here, in the warm water washing process, after the washing step using the heated water generated by the heater 38 is completed, the washing and dehydration steps are performed.

In the warm water washing process, after the water in the water tank 13 reaches a predetermined level by filling the water tank 13 with water, the heater 38 of the heater unit 32 is turned on. The control device will control the heater 38 to turn on/off according to the temperature of the washing water in the sink to control the temperature of the washing water. The method of detecting the water temperature in the water tank will be explained in [1-5. Method of detecting the water temperature in the water tank].

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

Furthermore, the prescribed temperatures M1 and M2 can also be set according to each operation stroke (for example, a sterilization stroke or a mud stroke). The prescribed temperatures M1 and M2 are changed according to the operation schedule, so that the washing water can be adjusted to a water temperature suitable for the purpose of each operation schedule.

By opening the drain cock of the drain cock unit 34, the washing water is drained toward the outside of the washing machine body 11. Here, since the washing water in the water tank 13 flows out to the outside of the washing machine body 11 through the drain cock unit 34, the outflow path portion 37g and the heater container 37, it is possible to suppress the amount of water in the heater container 37 during draining. The washing water or foreign objects are retained.

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

With this configuration, even in an environment where the water is discharged on the road surface, since the washing water can be drained in a state where the water temperature has been lowered, the safety is improved.

On the other hand, if the outflow path 37g of the heater accommodating container 37 is blocked due to lint of clothes or the like, there is a concern that the water flow between the heater accommodating container 37 and the water tank 13 may be blocked. If the water flow between the heater storage container 37 and the water tank 13 is obstructed, it is conceivable that although the water temperature in the water tank is below the predetermined temperature M1, the inside of the heater unit 32 becomes overheated. In this case, it is possible to prevent the heater 38 from being turned off when the measured water temperature of the temperature detector 56 that detects the water temperature in the heater storage container 37 reaches the heater overheating set temperature (for example, 95°C). Overheating in the heater unit 32 can suppress the generation of scale and the deterioration of the heater storage container 37. [1-3. Flow of washing water in heater unit]

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

Using FIG. 11, the flow of washing water in the heater unit 32 when the heater 38 is turned on in the warm water washing process will be explained.

On the root side of the heating portion 38a on the upper surface of the heater accommodating container 37, an outflow path portion 37g communicating with the inner bottom of the water tank 13 is formed, and on the side of the heating portion 38a on the side of the heater accommodating container 37, there is connected A drain cock unit 34 communicating with the bottom of the water tank 13.

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

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

In order to make up for the high-temperature washing water discharged from the heater storage container 37 to the sink 13, the low-temperature and heavier washing water in the sink 13 will pass through the drain cock from the inlet 34a as shown by the arrow C in FIG. The drainage cock valve front path 34b on the upstream side of the drainage cock valve of the unit 34 flows into the inner bottom of the heater storage container 37. The washing water flowing into the heater storage container 37 flows from the vicinity of the front end of the heating portion 38a of the heater 38 toward the vicinity of the root while effectively using the radiant heat of the heater 38 for heating. Therefore, the washing water can be heated efficiently.

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

As shown in FIG. 11, the upper end of the outflow path portion 37 g is located above the inflow port 34 a of the drain cock unit 34. With this configuration, the pressure difference between the upper end and the lower end of the outflow path portion 37g becomes larger than the pressure difference between the upper end and the lower end of the drain cock front path 34b, so the high temperature in the heater storage container 37 Washing water becomes easy to flow out toward the water tank 13 from 37 g of outflow path parts. Therefore, it is possible to circulate the warm water more efficiently.

In this way, by providing two paths (inlet 34a, outflow path portion 37g) connecting the water tank 13 and the heater storage container 37 at different distances from the heater 38, it is possible to use the separate paths. The difference in the water temperature of the washing water makes the washing water in the sink 13 and the washing water in the heater storage container 37 circulate through natural convection. Therefore, it is possible to reduce the number of parts without requiring external forces such as pumps, thereby reducing costs.

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

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

In the present embodiment, the larger opening areas of the first drain port 33a and the second drain port 33b can activate the circulation of the washing water between the heater unit 32 and the water tank 13. However, if the first drain port 33a and the second drain port 33b are made into a perfect circular shape and the opening area is enlarged, the welding boss 45 or the inner threaded screw around the first drain port 33a and the second drain port 33b will be caused. 46 etc. interfere, so the bottom of the water tank 13 needs to be greatly modified.

Therefore, by forming the first drain port 33a in a substantially elliptical shape as shown in FIG. 2, the opening of the first drain port 33a can be enlarged without changing the positions of the welding boss 45 and the threaded screw 46. area. Therefore, there is no need for a high mold investment, and the washing water in the water tank 13 and the heater storage container 37 can be efficiently circulated at low cost.

In addition, the cross-sectional area of the outflow path portion 37g may be formed to be larger than the cross-sectional area of the drain cock front path 34b. Since the high-temperature washing water in the heater container 37 has a larger volume than the low-temperature washing water in the water tank 13, the cross-sectional area of 37g of the outflow path through which the high-temperature washing water passes can be increased efficiently. The ground circulation heater contains the washing water in the container 37 and the washing water in the sink 13.

Moreover, as shown in FIG. 9, the lower surface 39a of the inner wall of the bottom side of the heater storage container 37 is gradually inclined downward from the opening 37b for heater insertion toward the opening 37a for drain cock connection. With this structure, when draining, the washing water in the heater storage container 37 flows toward the drain cock connection opening 37a, and flows out to the washing machine body through the drain cock unit 34 and the drain path 41 (refer to FIG. 1) 11's outside. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the washing water or foreign matter in the heater storage container 37 from stagnating at the time of draining. [1-4. Check the status of the heater unit and how to maintain it]

Since foreign matter such as large thread scraps generated from the clothes may adhere to the heater 38 or block the outflow path portion 37g, there is a concern that the heated water in the heater storage container 37 may not flow out into the water tank 13. In addition, there may be cases where defects occur in the parts of the heater unit 32. Therefore, it becomes necessary to confirm or repair the state in the heater unit 32 according to needs.

Hereinafter, the state confirmation and maintenance method in the heater unit 32 will be described.

In order to confirm the state of the heater unit 32, the back plate 17 covering the back opening 11a on the rear side of the washing machine body 11 shown in FIG. 1 is removed, and the heater installed on the bottom of the sink 13 is housed from the back opening 11a The lid 51 of the container 37 is removed. Since the heater accommodating container 37 and the cover body 51 are fixed by screw locking, the cover body 51 can be removed by loosening the screws.

With this method, the state of the heater 38 in the heater storage container 37 can be confirmed from the opening 11a on the back of the washing machine body 11, and wire scraps and the like attached to the surface of the heater 38 can be removed as needed. Therefore, since there is no need to attach or detach the lead connector connected to the heater 38, it becomes possible to easily perform confirmation and maintenance of the heater 38.

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

In addition, the heater unit 32 and the water tank 13, as well as the heater unit 32 and the drain cock unit 34, are fastened by screws (not shown in the figure) so as to be detachable. With this configuration, when it is necessary to remove foreign objects that have penetrated into the heater unit 32, or when it becomes necessary to replace the heater unit 32, the washing machine body 11 can be laid down laterally, and the heating can be heated from the bottom of the washing machine body 11. The heater unit 32 is detached from the water tank 13 and the drain cock unit 34, and maintenance of the heater unit 32 alone becomes possible. In addition, only the damaged parts of the heater unit 32 can be maintained, so the time and cost required for repair can be reduced. [1-5. Water temperature detection method in the water tank]

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

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

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

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

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

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

After the heater 38 is turned off for a predetermined period of time, the pulsator 18 is rotated for a predetermined period of time to stir the washing water in the water tank 13 and promote the balance of the water temperature difference between the water tank 13 and the heater storage container 37. Therefore, the difference between the water temperature in the heater storage container 37 and the water tank 13 becomes small in a short time, and the water temperature in the water tank 13 can be detected with high precision.

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

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

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

After the heater 38 is continuously turned on for the second energization time, the temperature detection unit 56 estimates the water temperature T2 in the water tank 13 and compares it with the target set water temperature. When the water temperature T2 is lower than the target set water temperature, the heater 38 is turned on for a predetermined time, and then the temperature detection unit 56 estimates the inside of the water tank 13 again. When the water temperature T2 is higher than the target set water temperature, the heater 38 is turned off for a predetermined time, and then the temperature detection unit 56 estimates the inside of the water tank 13 again.

With this method, the temperature detection unit 56 that measures the temperature of the water in the heater storage container 37 can be used to adjust the temperature of the washing water in the water tank 13. Therefore, it is not necessary to provide a water temperature detection unit in the water tank, and it is possible to provide a washing machine with high reliability at low cost.

In this embodiment, although the drain cock unit 34 and the outflow path portion 37g formed in the heater storage container 37 constitute the connection path between the water tank 13 and the heater storage container 37, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, an inflow path portion and an outflow path portion may be formed in the heater storage container 37, and the water tank 13 and the heater storage container 37 may be directly communicated without passing through the drain cock unit 34. At this time, with the heater storage container 37 attached to the bottom of the water tank 13, the drain cock unit 34 may be connected to the bottom surface or the side surface of the heater storage container 37 in this state.

In this embodiment, although the configuration in which the temperature detection unit 56 arranged in the heater storage container 37 detects the water temperature in the water tank 13 has been described, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, it may be in the water tank 13 Or, the drain cock unit 34 is equipped with a temperature detection unit in the water tank composed of a thermistor or the like to measure the water temperature in the water tank 13.

In this embodiment, although the connection path between the water tank 13 and the heater storage container 37 is provided as two drain cock unit 34 and the outflow path portion 37g, the present invention is not limited to this. The water tank 13 and the heater storage container 37 You can also set more than 3 connection paths.

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

In this embodiment, the cover 51 is provided in the opening of the heater storage container 37 on the back side of the washing machine body 11 in the state where the heater unit 32 is mounted on the outer bottom surface of the water tank 13. The lid 51 only needs to be installed in the direction in which the opening of the washing machine body 11 that can be opened and closed in the heater storage container 37 exists. Therefore, in the heater storage container 37 opened and closed by the lid 51, the opening may be formed on the front side of the washing machine body 11 or may be formed on the side surface of the washing machine body 11.

In this embodiment, although the first drain port 33a is formed in a substantially elliptical shape, the second drain port may be formed in a generally elliptical shape, or the first drain port 33a and the second drain port 33b may be formed in a generally elliptical shape. shape.

In this embodiment, although the structure which connects the inner bottom of the water tank 13 and the heater storage container 37, and circulates warm water by natural convection was demonstrated, this invention is not limited to this. For example, it may be configured such that the heater storage container 37 and the washing and dehydration tank 15 are connected through a circulation pump, and the washing water heated in the heater storage container 37 is directed into the washing and dehydration tank 15 by the circulation pump. Flow out to circulate warm water.

In this embodiment, it may also be configured to provide a conductor that allows the washing water in the water tank 13 to flow into the inflow port 34a of the drain cock unit 34. With this configuration, the centrifugal force generated by the driving of the pulsator 18 can efficiently flow the washing water from the water tank 13 into the heater storage container 37.

In this embodiment, the vertical washing machine has been described as an example of the washing machine, but the present invention is not limited to this, and it may be a drum-type washing machine.

As described above, the present embodiment has been described as an example of the technology disclosed in this application. However, the technology of the present disclosure is not limited to this, and can also be applied to implementations in which changes, substitutions, additions, omissions, etc. have been made. In addition, it is also possible to combine the constituent elements described in this embodiment to create a new embodiment. [2. The second embodiment]

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

Hereinafter, the second embodiment will be described using FIGS. 13 to 17. Furthermore, for the longitudinal cross-sectional view of the washing machine, refer to FIG. 1.

Although the bottom of the water tank 13 of the washing machine in the first embodiment has the first drain port 33a and the second drain port 33b, the bottom of the water tank 113 of the washing machine in this embodiment has a drain port 133 as shown in FIG. Since the other structure of the washing machine in this embodiment is the same as the structure of the washing machine in 1st Embodiment, description is abbreviate|omitted. [2-1. Composition of heater unit]

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

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

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

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

Hereinafter, each part will be explained. In addition, since the heater 138 in this embodiment has the same structure as the heater 38 in the first embodiment, the description is omitted. [A. Heater storage container 137]

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

In the vicinity of the opening 137c for inserting the sheet metal member on the side surface of the heater storage container 137 in the longitudinal direction, there is an opening 137a for connecting the drain cock which communicates with the drain cock unit 134. Although in the washing machine of the first embodiment, a cylindrical outflow path portion 37g communicating with the second drain port 33b at the bottom of the water tank 13 is formed on the upper surface of the heater accommodating container 37, the heater in this embodiment No such path is formed in the storage container 137. The configuration of the other heater storage container 137 is the same as the configuration of the heater storage container 37 of the first embodiment.

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

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

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

In addition, the sheet metal member 136 may be formed by welding two sheets of sheet metal by spot welding or the like, for example.

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

As shown in FIG. 13, the cover 151 is detachably covering the opening 137c for inserting a sheet metal member of the heater storage container 137 by the locking of a screw etc. which are not shown in figure.

Although the cover 51 of the washing machine in the first embodiment is formed with inclined ribs 51a (convex ribs) (refer to FIG. 6), the cover 151 of the washing machine in this embodiment does not have such inclined ribs 51a (convex ribs). Kind of ribs. The other structure of the cover body 151 in this embodiment is the same as the structure of the cover body 51 in 1st Embodiment.

In this way, the heater unit 132 is constructed. [2-2. Flow of washing water in heater unit]

Fig. 17 is a cross-sectional view showing the flow of washing water in the heater unit of the washing machine in this embodiment. Using FIG. 17, the flow of washing water in the heater unit 132 in the state where the heater 138 is turned on during the warm water washing process will be explained.

As shown in FIG. 13, a drain cock unit 134 communicating with the inner bottom of the water tank 113 is connected to the side surface in the longitudinal direction of the heater storage container 137. As shown in FIG. 14, a partition wall 146 is provided inside the drain cock unit 134. The partition wall 146 is formed in a substantially L-shape extending downward toward the heater 138. With the partition wall 146, it is possible to prevent low-temperature washing water and high-temperature washing water from mixing in the drain cock 134, and to efficiently circulate the washing water. The low-temperature washing water flows from the water tank 113 toward the heater storage container 137 The low-temperature washing water in the inflow path 135a is the high-temperature washing water in the outflow path 135b flowing from the heater storage container 137 toward the water tank 113.

When the heater 138 is turned on when the heater accommodating container 137 is filled with washing water, the washing water in the heater accommodating container 137 will be heated by the heater 138 and rise in the heater accommodating container 137 as It is discharged to the water tank 113 from the outflow path 135b as shown by the arrow B of FIG.

On the other hand, in order to make up for the high-temperature washing water discharged from the heater storage container 137 toward the water tank 113, the low-temperature and heavier washing water in the water tank 113 will pass through the inflow path 135a as shown by arrow A in FIG. The heater accommodating container 137 flows in. Since the heated washing water in the heater accommodating container 137 moves upward, the low-temperature washing water in the water tank 113 can easily flow into the bottom side of the heater accommodating container 137 from the inflow path 135a.

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

In this way, the heater storage container 137 and the inner bottom of the water tank 113 are connected through one path, and the washing water is circulated by the natural convection caused by the temperature difference of the washing water, so that the heater unit 132 can be installed. The mold for the common water tank 113 is used for the model and the model without the heater unit 132. Therefore, it is possible to reduce the manufacturing cost at the time of development to realize the function of the warm water specification. In addition, the heater unit 132 can be provided in an external manner according to needs.

Moreover, as shown in FIG. 14 and FIG. 17, the upper end part of the vertical part 146a of the partition wall 146 is located above the inflow port 134a. With this configuration, it is possible to prevent the high-temperature washing water discharged from the outflow path 135b toward the water tank 113 from entering the inflow path 135a, so that the washing water in the water tank can be efficiently heated.

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

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

As described above, as an example of the technique disclosed in this application, the first embodiment and the second embodiment have been described. However, the technology of the present disclosure is not limited to this, and can also be applied to implementations in which changes, substitutions, additions, omissions, etc. have been made. In addition, it is also possible to combine the constituent elements described in the first embodiment and the second embodiment to create a new embodiment.

Therefore, other embodiments are exemplified below.

In the first embodiment, although the drain cock unit 34 and the outflow path portion 37g formed in the heater storage container 37 constitute the connection path between the water tank 13 and the heater storage container 37, the present invention is not limited to Here. For example, an inflow path portion and an outflow path portion may be formed in the heater storage container 37, and the water tank 13 and the heater storage container 37 may be directly communicated without passing through the drain cock unit 34. At this time, with the heater storage container 37 attached to the bottom of the water tank 13, the drain cock unit 34 may be connected to the bottom surface or the side surface of the heater storage container 37 in this state. In addition, three or more connection paths between the water tank 13 and the heater storage container 37 may be provided.

In the first embodiment, although the first drain port 33a is formed in a substantially elliptical shape, the second drain port 33b may be formed in a generally elliptical shape, or the first drain port 33a and the second drain port 33b may be formed as Roughly oval shape.

In the first embodiment, although the configuration in which the temperature detector 56 arranged in the heater storage container detects the water temperature in the water tank 13 has been described, the present invention is not limited to this, and it may be arranged in the water tank 13 A temperature detection unit in the water tank composed of a thermistor or the like is provided to measure the water temperature in the water tank 13.

In the second embodiment, the drain cock unit 134 constitutes the connection path between the water tank 113 and the heater storage container 137, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the heater storage container 137 may form a path communicating with the drain port at the inner bottom of the water tank 113, so that the water tank 113 and the heater storage container 137 are directly connected without passing through the drain cock unit 134. At this time, a partition wall may be arranged inside the path part. In addition, by forming the path portion of the heater storage container 137 in a substantially L-shape, and connecting the side surface of the heater storage container 137 with the inner bottom surface of the water tank 113, the low-temperature washing water in the water tank 113 becomes easier to pass The inflow path 135a flows into the bottom side of the heater storage container 137. Furthermore, in a state where the heater storage container 137 is installed at the bottom of the water tank 113, the drain cock unit 134 may be connected to the bottom surface or the side surface of the heater storage container 137 in this state.

In the second embodiment, although the upper end of the vertical portion 146a of the partition wall 146 is located above the inlet 134a, the present invention is not limited to this, and the upper end of the vertical portion 146a may be located at the specific flow. The entrance 134a is further down.

In the first embodiment and the second embodiment, the heater units 32, 132 are installed on the outer bottom surface of the water tanks 13, 113, and the lids 51, 151 are installed in the heater storage container 37 in the washing machine body. 11 is the structure of the back opening 11a. The lid 51 only needs to be installed in the direction in which the opening of the washing machine body 11 that can be opened and closed in the heater storage container 37 exists. Therefore, the openings of the heater storage containers 37 and 137 opened and closed by the lids 51 and 151 may be formed on the front side of the washing machine body 11 or may be formed on the side surface of the washing machine body 11.

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

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

As described above, the washing machine in the first disclosure includes: a washing machine body; a sink supported inside the washing machine body and having a drain port at the bottom; and a drain cock unit connected to the drain port of the sink. In addition, the drain cock unit is connected to the heater unit, and the heater unit communicates with the bottom of the water tank. The heater unit contains a heater for heating the washing water and forms a water path communicating with the bottom of the water tank, and the water path is connected to the bottom of the water tank. The drain cock valve unit opens at a position where the water temperature of the washing water is different from the heater unit.

With this configuration, it is possible to easily check or maintain the internal state of the heater unit.

In addition, in the washing machine in the second disclosure, the water passage and the drain cock valve unit of the washing machine in the first disclosure are respectively installed in the vicinity of both ends of the heater built in the heater unit.

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

In addition, the washing machine in the third disclosure includes: a washing machine body; a water tank, which is supported inside the washing machine body and has a drain at the bottom; and a heater unit, which communicates with the inner bottom of the water tank and contains washing water inside. Heated heater. In addition, the heater unit communicates with the bottom of the water tank through a plurality of water passages, and the plural water passages respectively open at positions where the water temperature of the washing water is different from the heater unit.

With this configuration, it is possible to easily check or maintain the internal state of the heater unit.

In addition, the washing machine in the fourth disclosure has the plurality of water channels of the washing machine in the third disclosure at least in the vicinity of both ends of the heater built in the heater unit.

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

[Supplementary Note 1] A washing machine, comprising: a washing machine body; a sink supported inside the washing machine body and having a drain port at the bottom; a drain cock unit connected to the drain port of the sink; and a heater unit connected to In the drain cock unit and communicated with the inner bottom of the water tank, the heater unit has a heater storage container that houses a heater for heating the washing water inside, and the heater storage container The bottom surface of the inner wall gradually slopes downward toward the aforementioned drain cock valve unit.

[Supplement 2] The washing machine of Supplement 1, wherein the upper surface of the inner wall of the heater storage container gradually slopes upward toward the drain cock unit.

[Supplement 3] The washing machine of Supplement 2, wherein the inclination angle of the upper surface of the inner wall of the heater storage container and the inclination angle of the bottom surface of the inner wall of the heater storage container are formed to be approximately the same.

With the configuration of [Supplement 1], when draining, since the washing water in the heater container flows toward the drain cock unit, it can prevent the washing water or foreign matter in the heater container from staying during draining.

With the structure of [Supplement 2], when the washing water is supplied into the heater container, the air accumulated in the heater container becomes easy to be discharged toward the water tank. Therefore, the accumulation of air in the heater storage container can be prevented, and the risk of empty burning can be reduced.

With the structure of [Appendix 3], even if the heater container is turned upside down, it can be installed on the bottom of the water tank for use. Therefore, the heater unit can be arranged in consideration of the center of gravity of the vibration, the arrangement of parts, and the like. (Additional 2 about the means used to solve the problem)

[Supplementary Note 1] A washing machine comprising: a washing machine body with an openable and closable inspection port for inspecting the inside; a sink supported inside the washing machine body and having a drain port at the bottom; a drain cock unit and the aforementioned sink The drain port is connected; and the heater unit is connected to the drain cock unit and communicates with the inner bottom of the water tank. The heater unit has: a heater accommodating container with an opening at one end; a heater installed on the heater Inside the container and heat the washing water; and the cover is installed so as to be able to open and close the opening of the heater container, and the heater unit is installed in a state where the opening of the heater container faces the inspection port At the bottom of the aforementioned sink.

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

With the structure of [Appendix 1], the status of the heater can be easily seen by removing the lid from the heater storage container.

With the structure of [Appendix 2], the status of the heater can be seen, so that the heater can be easily maintained. (Addition 3 about the means used to solve the problem)

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

[Supplement 2] The washing machine of Supplement 1, wherein as the sheet metal member is inserted from the opening on the first end side of the heater accommodating container into the heater accommodating container, the peripheral edge portion of the gap of the sheet metal member The end will be embedded in the aforementioned ribbon ribs.

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

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

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

With the structure of [Supplement 2], the heater storage container and the sheet metal member can be firmly fixed.

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

With the structure of [Supplement 4], the sheet metal member inserted into the heater storage container can be supported and fixed by the lid. (Additional note 4 about the means used to solve the problem)

[Supplementary Note 1] A washing machine comprising: a washing machine body with an openable and closable inspection port for inspecting the inside; a sink supported inside the washing machine body and having a drain port at the bottom; a drain cock unit and the aforementioned sink The drain port is connected; and the heater unit is connected to the drain cock unit and communicates with the inner bottom of the water tank. The heater unit has: a heater accommodating container with an opening at one end; a heater installed on the heater Inside the container and heat the washing water; and the cover is installed so as to be able to open and close the opening of the heater container, and the heater unit is installed in a state where the opening of the heater container faces the inspection port At the bottom of the aforementioned sink.

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

With the structure of [Appendix 1], the status of the heater can be easily seen by removing the lid from the heater storage container.

With the structure of [Appendix 2], the status of the heater can be seen, so that the heater can be easily maintained.

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

11‧‧‧Washing machine body 11a‧‧‧Back opening (inspection port) 12‧‧‧Suspended system 13,113,200‧‧‧Sink 14‧‧‧Washing/dehydration shaft 15‧‧‧Washing and dewatering tank 16 ‧‧‧Fluid balancer 17‧‧‧Back plate 18‧‧‧Pulsator 20‧‧‧Transmission mechanism 21‧‧‧Motor 22‧‧‧Motor side pulley 23‧‧‧Mechanical side pulley 24‧‧‧Belt 25 ‧‧‧Upper frame 26‧‧‧Washing input and extraction outlet 27‧‧‧Door 29‧‧‧Operation display part 30‧‧‧Water supply valve 31‧‧‧Water injection tank 32, 132‧‧‧Heater unit 33a ‧‧‧The first drainage port 33b‧‧‧The second drainage port 34, 134‧‧‧Drain cock unit 34a, 134a‧‧‧Inlet 34b‧‧‧Drain cock front path 34c, 134c‧‧‧Drain path Side openings 36, 136‧‧‧Sheet metal members 36a, 136a‧‧‧Partitions 37, 137‧‧‧Heater storage container 37a, 137a‧‧‧Drain cock connection openings 37b, 137b‧‧‧Heater Insertion openings 37c, 137c‧‧‧Sheet metal member insertion openings 37d‧‧‧Banded ribs 37e‧‧‧ribs 37g‧‧‧outflow path portions 38, 138, 220‧‧‧ heaters 38a, 221‧ ‧‧Heating part 38b‧‧‧Terminal part 38c‧‧‧Connecting part 38d‧‧‧Flexible member 39a, 139a‧‧‧Inner wall lower surface 39b, 139b‧‧‧Inner wall upper surface 40‧‧‧Supporting sheet 41‧‧‧Drainage path 42‧‧‧Spot welding part 43‧‧‧Nut 44‧‧‧Bolt 45‧‧‧Welding boss 46‧‧‧Internal thread screw 47‧‧‧Crimp plate 51, 151‧‧ ‧Cover body 51a‧‧‧Slanted rib 56‧‧‧Temperature detection part 133, 213‧‧‧Water outlet 135a‧‧‧Inflow path 135b‧‧‧Outflow path 140‧‧‧Fixed metal member 146‧‧‧Partition wall 146a ‧‧‧Vertical part 146b‧‧‧Horizontal part 210‧‧‧Expansion part 211‧‧‧Heater assembly 230‧‧‧Opening part 240‧‧‧Supporting member 241‧‧‧Front end 243‧‧‧Lock structure 250‧‧‧Boss A, B, C, D‧‧‧Arrow W, W1, W2‧‧‧Width dimension

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Fig. 18 is a perspective view of a sink in a conventional washing machine.

Fig. 19 is a back perspective view of the water tank with the heater of the conventional washing machine removed.

Fig. 20 is a side view of the main part of the heater assembly showing the state where the heater is installed at the bottom of the sink in the conventional washing machine.

32‧‧‧Heater unit

34‧‧‧Drain cock unit

34a‧‧‧Inlet

34b‧‧‧Front path of drain cock

34c‧‧‧Drain path side opening

37‧‧‧Heater container

37a‧‧‧Drain cock connection opening

37g‧‧‧Outflow path part

38‧‧‧Heater

38a‧‧‧Heating section

38b‧‧‧Terminal

38c‧‧‧Connecting part

C, D‧‧‧Arrow

Claims (4)

A washing machine comprising: a washing machine body; a sink supported inside the washing machine body and having a drain port at the bottom; and a drain cock valve unit connected to the drain port, the drain cock valve unit and a heater for heating washing water The heater unit is connected. The heater unit has a heater built into the heater storage container to heat the washing water, and the heater storage container is formed with an opening for connection to the drain cock connected to the drain cock valve unit on the side. In the upper surface of the heater storage container, an outflow path portion communicating with the inner bottom of the water tank is formed. The washing machine of claim 1, wherein the heater is inserted and fixed from the opening at the end of the heater accommodating container, the drain cock connection opening is formed on the side surface of the front end of the heater, and the outflow path portion It is formed on the upper surface on the root side of the heater. A washing machine comprising: a washing machine body with an inspection port capable of opening and closing the interior; a water tank supported inside the washing machine body and having a drain port at the bottom; and a heater unit communicating with the inner bottom of the water tank and used in combination To heat Washing water, the heater unit has: a heater accommodating container with an opening at one end; a heater built in the heater accommodating container and heating the washing water; and a cover installed to be able to open and close the heater accommodating container The heater unit is installed at the bottom of the water tank in a state where the opening of the heater storage container faces the inspection port, and the heater storage container communicates with the inner bottom of the water tank through a plurality of water passages. The washing machine of claim 3, wherein the plurality of water passages are provided at least near both ends of the heater built in the heater unit.

Images