WO2008012963A1

WO2008012963A1 - Washing machine and method of recovering metal ion therein

Info

Publication number: WO2008012963A1
Application number: PCT/JP2007/054641
Authority: WO
Inventors: Mugihei Ikemizu
Original assignee: Sharp Kabushiki Kaisha
Priority date: 2006-07-26
Filing date: 2007-03-09
Publication date: 2008-01-31
Also published as: US20100005838A1; CN101495695B; JP4086882B2; CN101495695A; JP2008029376A; EP2045389A4; EP2045389A1

Abstract

A washing machine that allows recovery of metal ions fed into water used in washing. The washing machine (1) includes metal ion water generating means (90) for adding metal ions to water; and metal ion recovering unit (200) for recovering metal ions from the water, disposed so as to be in contact with the water having metal ions added thereto by the metal ion water generating means (90). In the method of recovering metal ions in the washing machine (1), metal ions are recovered from the water by, in the washing machine (1) capable of applying metal ions to a fiber structure, disposing the metal ion recovering unit (200) so as to be in contact with the water used in washing.

Description

Specification

Washing machine and method for recovering metal ions in the washing machine

Technical field

TECHNICAL FIELD [0001] The present invention relates generally to a washing machine, and more particularly to a washing machine capable of imparting metal ions to a fiber structure.

Background art

[0002] When washing is performed in a washing machine, it is often performed to add a finishing substance to water, particularly rinse water. Common finishing substances include softeners, glues and the like. In recent years, in addition to the above finishing substances, it is possible to apply metal ions (for example, silver ions) to the fiber structure as a finishing substance in order to impart antibacterial and deodorizing properties to the textile structure that is a laundry. There is a washing machine.

[0003] JP 2004-24597 A (Patent Document 1) describes a washing machine that imparts metal ions and a softening agent as finishing substances. Japanese Patent Laying-Open No. 2004-33996 (Patent Document 2) describes a washing machine that can stably supply a certain concentration of metal ions to the laundry being washed.

In these washing machines, metal ions are added to the water used for washing and supplied to the laundry when rinsing is performed during washing. By drying the laundry and evaporating the water in a state where the metal ions have soaked into the laundry together with the water, the metal ions are deposited as metal compounds and metals inside the textile structure of the laundry, and the laundry Antibacterial becomes possible. However, some of the metal ions do not adhere to the laundry and are discharged with the waste water.

[0005] As a method for recovering metal ions, JP-A-59-104490 (Patent Document 3) describes a method by electrolytic treatment. Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 61-158796 (Patent Document 4) discloses a method for recovering metal ions using a mass, and Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 6-145828 (Patent Document 5) discloses a method for collecting metal ions with sulfides. And a method using an adsorbent in JP-A-7-185568 (Patent Document 6), and JP-A-60-61039 (Patent Document 7). A method using fat is described.

Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2004-24597 Patent Document 2: Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2004-33996

Patent Document 3: Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 59-104490

Patent Document 4: Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 61-158796

Patent Document 5: JP-A-6-145828

Patent Document 6: JP-A-7-185568

Patent Document 7: Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 60-61039

Disclosure of the invention

Problems to be solved by the invention

[0006] However, the conventional method for recovering metal ions is industrial. Wastewater from the washing machine is mixed with other wastewater discharged from household power and wastewater from other households, and the concentration of metal ions targeted for recovery decreases. Reuse is difficult. For this reason, in order to collect metal ions contained in wastewater from household appliances such as washing machines, it was difficult to collect laundry wastewater from each household.

[0007] Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide a washing machine capable of recovering metal ions supplied to water used for washing.

Means for solving the problem

[0008] The washing machine according to the present invention is arranged so as to come into contact with the metal ion addition unit for adding metal ions to water and the water to which the metal ions have been added by the metal ion addition unit, and collect the metal ions in the water A metal ion recovery unit.

[0009] By doing so, metal ions can be collected before the washing machine power is discharged. The higher the concentration of metal ions in water, the easier it is to collect metal ions. However, once discharged from the washing machine and mixed with other domestic wastewater, the concentration of metal ions in water decreases and metal ions can be recovered. It becomes difficult. If metal ions are used only in a specific process or if the metal ion concentration in a specific process is very high compared to other processes, it is only mixed with wastewater from other processes. However, the concentration of metal ions in water decreases, making recovery difficult. For example, when metal ion water is used only for the final rinsing process in a washing machine, the final rinsing process drains and the washing process or non-final rinsing process. If the waste water from the rinsing process is mixed, the metal ion concentration is lowered.

[0010] A washing machine according to the present invention is a washing machine capable of imparting metal ions to a fiber structure, and is disposed so as to come into contact with water used for washing, and collects metal ions in water. A metal ion recovery unit.

[0011] By arranging the metal ion recovery unit so as to come into contact with water used for washing, the metal ions contained in the wastewater are added to the water used during washing and do not adhere to the washing machine. The washing machine power can also be recovered before it is discharged.

[0012] By doing so, the metal ions supplied to the water used for washing can be recovered.

[0013] In the washing machine according to the present invention, the metal ion recovery unit is preferably removable from the washing machine.

[0014] Generally, when a washing machine is collected and the material is recycled, it is difficult to disassemble the collected washing machine manufacturers and models, and it is difficult to disassemble the parts. Because it is difficult to distinguish, it is difficult to separate the washing machine into parts. Therefore, the entire washing machine may be crushed and then sorted into metals, grease, and the like.

[0015] If a washing machine equipped with a metal ion recovery unit is pulverized together with the metal ion recovery unit, fragments of the metal ion recovery unit are mixed with fragments of other parts, and the concentration of the recovered metal is reduced. Low, it will be difficult to recycle the metal in the metal ion recovery unit because it will not be possible to scrap metal. Also, when collecting metal ion collection units after disassembling the washing machine body, manual disassembly is required, which requires time and cost for processing.

[0016] By making it possible to remove the metal ion recovery unit without removing the exterior or the like of the washing machine, the metal ion recovery unit can be collected before the washing machine body is crushed. The washing machine after collecting the metal ion recovery unit can be processed in the same process as the conventional washing machine. The metal recovered by the metal ion recovery unit can be reused. In this way, it is possible to collect and reuse the metal ions that were conventionally discharged together with the waste water. [0017] By doing so, when the washing machine body is recovered and the materials used are recycled, the metal ion recovery unit that does not interfere with the recycling process can be collected, and the recovered metal Can be reused.

[0018] In the washing machine according to the present invention, the metal ion recovery unit preferably includes an adsorbent for selectively recovering a specific metal.

[0019] Washing water, which is water used for washing, such as tap water, contains many metal ions in addition to metal ions added as a finishing substance. Metal ions added for antibacterial purposes are usually contained in washing water at a concentration of about SO / z gZL lOmgZL, but general water is a sodium ion with a concentration of several tens of mgZL or more. It often contains calcium ions, potassium ions, and magnesium ions. The adsorbent that adsorbs such metal ions contained in tap water is saturated without sufficiently adsorbing the metal ions to be recovered, which are added as finishing substances. Therefore, it is necessary to shorten the life of the adsorbent or to provide a large amount of adsorbent in the metal ion recovery unit. Therefore, it is possible to maintain the effect of the metal ion recovery unit by using an adsorbent that is selective to the metal ions added as a finishing substance.

[0020] In the washing machine according to the present invention, the specific metal preferably contains at least one of silver ions and copper ions.

[0021] As a finishing agent for laundry, antibacterial silver ions and antifungal copper ions are often added. Therefore, by using an adsorbent that selectively adsorbs these ions, metal ions added during washing can be efficiently recovered.

[0022] The washing machine according to the present invention preferably includes a drainage path, and the metal ion recovery unit is disposed in the drainage path.

[0023] The exterior of the washing machine must withstand the vibrations of dehydration during washing and the impact when an imbalance occurs, and the material is strong so that users do not put their hands inside the washing machine. And is fixed with screws or nails, and is not easily removed from the washing machine body. On the other hand, the drainage channel can be installed in a state where it can be easily attached or detached, or can be formed with soft grease, etc., since the water flows only inside even if it is not particularly required to withstand vibration. The washing machine itself is recycled by installing a metal ion recovery unit in this part. In this case, it becomes easy to remove the metal ion recovery unit.

In this way, when the washing machine is recovered and recycled, the metal ion recovery unit can be collected without disassembling the washing machine body.

In the washing machine according to the present invention, the drainage path includes a first drainage path having a metal ion recovery unit and a second drainage path not having a metal ion recovery unit. And are preferred.

[0026] By doing in this way, wastewater when metal ions are added as a finishing substance passes through the first drainage path having a metal ion recovery unit, and wastewater is discharged without adding metal ions as a finishing substance. Can pass through the second drainage channel without a metal ion recovery unit. Do not let the water in the washing process, which contains a lot of lint and other metal ions, pass through the metal ion recovery unit, so that clogging by lint etc. in the first drainage path is prevented. It becomes possible to maintain the recovery power. In addition, when the adsorbent used in the metal ion recovery unit is a resin, the ability as an adsorbent decreases when the surfactant used when washing laundry is adsorbed on the surface of the resin, By properly using one drainage channel and the second drainage channel, it is possible to prevent a decrease in the adsorbing power of the adsorbent due to the adsorption of the surfactant.

[0027] It is preferable that the washing machine according to the present invention further includes drainage clogging detection means.

[0028] When a clogged drainage is detected in a certain drainage channel, drainage is performed using another drainage channel. By rubbing in this way, washing can be completed even if drainage is clogged.

[0029] A method for recovering metal ions in a washing machine according to the present invention is a metal ion recovery unit in a washing machine capable of imparting metal ions to a fiber structure so as to come into contact with water used for washing. It is preferable that the method is used to collect metal ions in water.

[0030] By arranging the metal ion recovery unit in contact with the water used for washing, the metal contained in the wastewater is added to the water used during washing and does not adhere to the laundry. Ions can be collected before the household power is discharged.

[0031] By doing so, the metal ions supplied to the water used for washing are recovered. be able to.

The invention's effect

As described above, according to the present invention, a washing machine capable of recovering metal ions supplied to water used for washing can be provided.

Brief Description of Drawings

FIG. 1 is a vertical sectional view showing an overall configuration of a washing machine as one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a schematic vertical sectional view of the water supply device when the front force is also seen.

FIG. 3 is a schematic sectional view of metal ion water generating means. (A) is a horizontal schematic cross-sectional view, and (B) is a vertical schematic cross-sectional view.

FIG. 4 is a flowchart of the entire washing process of the washing machine according to the embodiment of the present invention.

[Fig. 5] A diagram showing a metal ion recovery unit attached to a drain hose (A), a diagram showing an example of the interior of the metal ion recovery unit (B), and another example of the interior of the metal ion recovery unit FIG.

FIG. 6 is a diagram showing a schematic cross section of a drainage path of a washing machine as another embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 7 is a diagram showing a schematic cross section of a drainage channel including a filter.

FIG. 8 is a flowchart of a conventional washing machine draining process.

FIG. 9 is a flowchart of a process for draining water containing metal ions of a washing machine according to another embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 10 is a flowchart of a process of draining water that does not contain metal ions in a washing machine according to another embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 11 is a vertical sectional view showing an overall configuration of a washing machine as still another embodiment of the present invention.

Explanation of symbols

[0034] 1: Washing machine, 60: Drain hose, 90: Metal ion water generating means, 200: Metal ion recovery unit, 201: Adsorbent, 601: First drain hose, 602: Second drain hose. BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

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

First, the configuration of the washing machine will be described.

FIG. 1 is a vertical sectional view showing the overall configuration of the washing machine. The washing machine 1 is a fully automatic type.

As shown in FIG. 1, the washing machine 1 includes an exterior 10. The exterior 10 has a rectangular parallelepiped shape and is formed of metal or synthetic resin, and the upper surface and the bottom surface are openings. An upper surface plate 11 made of synthetic resin is overlaid on the upper surface opening of the exterior 10, and the upper surface plate 11 is fixed to the exterior 10 with screws.

In FIG. 1, when the left side is the front of the washing machine 1 and the right side is the back, a back panel 12 made of synthetic resin is also superimposed on the upper surface of the top plate 11 located on the back side of the washing machine 1, The back panel 12 is fixed to the exterior 10 or the top plate 11 with screws. A base 13 made of synthetic resin is stacked on the bottom surface opening of the exterior 10, and the base 13 is fixed to the exterior 10 with screws. In FIG. 1, the illustration of any of the screws described so far is omitted.

[0040] At the four corners of the base 13, legs 14a and 14b for supporting the exterior 10 on the floor are provided. The front leg portion 14a is a screw leg of variable height, and the washing machine 1 is leveled by turning this leg. The leg 14b on the back side is a fixed leg integrally formed with the base 13.

[0041] The upper surface plate 11 is formed with a laundry loading port 15 for loading laundry into a washing tub 30 described later. The lid 16 is coupled to the top plate 11 by a hinge portion 17 and rotates in a vertical plane and covers the laundry input port 15 from above.

[0042] Inside the exterior 10, a water tub 20 and a washing tub 30 also serving as a dewatering tub are disposed. Both the water tub 20 and the washing tub 30 are in the shape of a cylindrical cup with an open top surface, each axis is in the vertical direction, and the tub 20 is on the outside and the washing tub 30 is on the inside. So that they are arranged concentrically.

The water tank 20 is suspended by the suspension member 21. The suspension member 21 is connected to the lower part of the outer surface of the aquarium 20 and the corner part of the inner surface of the exterior 10 in a total of four locations. It is deployed and supports the aquarium 20 so that it can swing in a horizontal plane.

An annular balancer 32 is attached to the edge of the upper opening of the washing tub 30. The balancer 32 has a function of suppressing vibration when the washing tub 30 is rotated at a high speed for dehydrating the laundry. A pulsator 33 for generating a flow of washing water or rinsing water in the tub 30 is arranged on the bottom surface of the inside of the tub 30 !. A drain port 34 is formed at the bottom of the washing tub 30 covered with the pulsator 33.

A drive unit 40 is attached to the lower surface of the water tank 20. The drive unit 40 includes a motor 41, a clutch mechanism 42, and a brake mechanism 43, and a dewatering shaft 44 and a pulsator shaft 45 project upward from the center thereof. The dewatering shaft 44 and the pulsator shaft 45 have a double shaft structure in which the dewatering shaft 44 is on the outer side and the norseter shaft 45 is on the inner side. The dehydrating shaft 44 enters the water tub 20 by force from the lower side to the upper side, and is connected to the washing tub 30 to support it. The pulsator shaft 45 passes through the water tub 20 from the lower side to the upper side and further enters the washing tub 30 and is connected to and supports the pulsator 33. Seal members for preventing water leakage are disposed between the dewatering shaft 44 and the water tank 20 and between the dewatering shaft 44 and the pulsator shaft 45, respectively.

A water supply device 2 is provided in a space below the back panel 12, and the water supply device 2 is connected to a container-shaped water supply port 53. The water supply port 53 is provided at a position facing the inside of the washing tub 30. The water supply apparatus 2 has a connecting pipe 51 protruding upward through a through hole 18 provided in the back panel 12. A water supply hose (not shown) for supplying tap water or the like is connected to the connection pipe 51, and is connected to a water tap through the hose. The water supply apparatus 2 has a structure shown in FIG. Water is supplied to the washing tub 30 through the water supply port 53 described above!

FIG. 2 is a schematic vertical sectional view of the water supply device 2 when viewed from the front.

[0048] As shown in FIG. 2, the water supply device 2 includes a main water supply valve 50a, a sub water supply valve 50b, a connection pipe 51, a main water supply pipe 52a that is a first water supply path, and a sub water supply path. It comprises a water supply pipe 52b and metal ion water generating means 90 as a metal ion addition unit for adding metal ions to the water flowing in the main water supply pipe 52a.

[0049] The outlet side of the connecting pipe 51 is connected to the main water supply pipe 52a and the sub water supply pipe 52b, The water supply pipe can supply water to the water supply port 53. The main water supply pipe 52a is provided with metal ion water generating means 90.

[0050] As shown in FIG. 1, a drainage hose 60 is attached to the bottom of the tank 20 as a drainage path for draining the water in the tank 20 and the washing tank 30 out of the exterior 10! . Water flows from the drain pipe 61 into the drain hose 60. The drain pipe 61 is connected to a location near the outer periphery of the bottom surface of the water tank 20.

[0051] At the time of draining, the water supplied to the washing tub 30 is discharged into the space between the washing tub 30 and the tub 20 through the drain 34 at the bottom of the washing tub 30 and passes through the drain pipe 61 and the drain valve 62. Then, it flows into the drainage hose 60 and is discharged to the outside. Also, the water in the washing tub 30 is discharged into the space between the washing tub 30 and the water tub 20 through the dewatering hole 31 of the washing tub 30 and into the drainage hose 60 through the drain pipe 61 and the drain valve 62. It flows in and is discharged to the outside.

[0052] The drain hose 60 is provided with a metal ion recovery unit 200. The water discharged from the washing tub 30 passes through the inside of the metal ion recovery unit 200 when flowing through the drainage hose 60.

The drain pipe 61 is provided with a drain valve 62 that opens and closes electromagnetically. An air trap (not shown) is provided at a location on the upstream side of the drain valve 62 of the drain pipe 61, and a pressure guiding pipe 70 extends from the air lap. Connected to the upper end of the pressure guiding pipe 70 is a water level switch 71 that is a means for detecting the amount of water in the washing tub 30 or the water tub 20.

A control unit 80 is arranged on the front side of the exterior 10. The control unit 80 is placed under the top plate 11 and receives an operation command from the user through the operation Z display unit 81 provided on the top surface of the top plate 11 to the drive unit 40, the water supply device 2, and the like. Issue operation command. Further, the control unit 80 issues a display command to the operation Z display unit 81.

FIG. 3 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the metal ion water generating means. 3A is a horizontal schematic cross-sectional view, and FIG. 3B is a vertical schematic cross-sectional view.

[0056] As shown in FIGS. 3 (A) and 3 (B), the metal ion water generating means 90 provided in the water supply device 2 shown in FIG. 2 is formed of an insulating material such as a synthetic resin. In the case 91, plate-like silver electrodes 92a and 92b are arranged so as to be substantially parallel with a distance of about 5 mm. For example, the silver electrode has a size of 20mm x 50mm and a thickness of about lmm It is. The silver electrodes 92a and 92b are respectively formed with connection terminals 93a and 93b. The connection terminals 93a and 93b are connected to the control unit 80 by wiring (not shown). The case 91 is provided with an inlet 94 through which water flows in and an outlet 95 through which water flows out.Water flows from the inlet 94 into the case 91, and water flows out of the case 91 through the outlet 95. Can be spilled. That is, water flows parallel to the longitudinal direction of the silver electrodes 92a and 92b.

A voltage is applied between the silver electrodes 92a and 92b by the control unit 80 in a state where the silver electrodes 92a and 92b are immersed in water. At the silver electrode on the anode side, Ag → Ag ⁺ + e_ reaction occurs, and silver ions (Ag +) are eluted in water. If silver ions (Ag +) continue to elute, the silver electrode on the anode side will wear out. Silver ions eluted from the silver electrode 92a or the silver electrode 92b exhibit an excellent bactericidal and antifungal effect. Accordingly, silver ion water which is metal ion water acts as antibacterial water having antibacterial properties. The term “antibacterial” or “sterilization” as used herein includes inactivating a virus that can be obtained only by sterilizing and antibacterial bacteria and fungi. The fact that the virus is inactivated by silver ions is described in “Silver Ion Water LA Krissky's New Japan Spear Forging Association (Publishing) 1993”!

[0058] On the other hand, in the silver electrode on the cathode side, when H ⁺ + e "→ l / 2H reaction occurs and hydrogen is generated,

2

In both cases, calcium contained in water is deposited on the surface of the silver electrode as a scale of calcium compounds such as calcium carbonate. In addition, silver chloride and sulfate, which are constituent metals of the electrode, are generated on the surface. Therefore, when used for a long time, scales such as calcium carbonate, chloride, and sulfate deposit on the electrode surface, preventing the elution of silver ions, which are metal ions. For this reason, the elution amount of silver ions becomes unstable, and the electrode wear becomes uneven. Therefore, the control unit 80 periodically performs polarity reversal of the applied voltage between the silver electrodes 92a and 92b of the metal ion water generating means 90 to adhere the scale to the silver electrodes 92a and 92b. And only one silver electrode is prevented from being consumed.

[0059] The metal electrode other than the silver electrode may be any metal that can elute metal ions having antibacterial properties. Specifically, copper, an alloy of silver and copper, zinc, or the like can be selected. Silver ions eluting from the silver electrode, copper ions eluting from the copper electrode, or zinc ions eluting from the zinc electrode Lead ion exhibits an excellent bactericidal and antifungal effect. Silver ions and copper ions can be eluted simultaneously from an alloy of silver and copper. Further, the anode may be an electrode that elutes metal ions, and the cathode may be an electrode that does not elute metal ions. When the electrode configuration is composed of two or more electrode covers, all may be metal electrodes made of the same material, either one is a metal electrode, and the other electrode is a non-metal electrode (for example, carbon An electrode, a conductive plastic electrode, or the like) or a good electrode. Furthermore, metal electrodes that are difficult to ionize (for example, titanium electrodes, platinum electrodes that are noble metals, gold electrodes, etc.) may be used. Or you may be comprised from the several metal electrode (for example, silver electrode, copper electrode, etc.) from which a material differs.

The elution of silver ions is controlled at a constant current so that the current value is constant. Constant current control is the control to maintain a constant current value regardless of the resistance value change between the electrodes. For example, bubbles are generated on the electrode surface or the distance between the electrodes changes due to electrode vibration. Since the resistance value between the electrodes changes constantly, it is difficult to make it completely constant, and some current fluctuation occurs. Also, due to the extremely high resistance value, a constant current may not flow at a voltage within the allowable range of the circuit, and the current may decrease. Here, even if this happens, the voltage is changed in response to the change in the resistance value between the electrodes. When the resistance value increases, the voltage is increased, and when the resistance value decreases, the voltage is decreased. Control that stabilizes the current value between the electrodes is constant current control.

[0061] The silver ion concentration of silver ion water can be controlled by the amount of electricity flowing between the electrodes and the amount of water. For example, in order to obtain 90 ppb of silver ion water, in the metal ion water generating means 90, the amount of water may be 20 LZmin and the current may be 29 mA. In order to obtain 600ppb of silver ion water, the amount of water should be 3LZmin and the current 29mA. The amount of silver ion dissolved out is roughly proportional to the amount of electricity (C) = constant current value (A) X time (sec), except in the low current region. If the amount of water is constant, there is a correlation between the amount of electricity and the silver concentration of the resulting silver ion water. For this reason, silver ion water having a desired concentration can be obtained by adjusting the current value, the amount of water, and the energization time.

[0062] In this manner, a desired silver ion concentration can be obtained by flowing a predetermined current through the silver electrodes 92a and 92b through water having a constant flow rate. The flow rate can be almost fixed by the structure of the water supply valve. By supplying a constant current, almost constant silver ion water can be generated. In order to obtain silver ion water having various concentrations, it is preferable to previously obtain a combination of current value and time by experiment.

[0063] Silver ions, copper ions, and zinc ions are not irritating to the human body and have low toxicity. In addition, since metal ions and their compounds are difficult to volatilize, volatilization is promoted by raising the temperature or ventilating, such as hypochlorous acid, and the effects of antibacterial and mildewproofing are lost. The effect can be maintained over a long period of time without causing an unpleasant smell or unpleasant odor.

[0064] In addition, in the metal ion water generating means 90, elution or non-elution of silver ions, which are metal ions, can be selected depending on whether or not voltage is applied, and the current and voltage application time are controlled as described above. By doing so, the elution amount of silver ions can be controlled.

[0065] As the metal ion water generating means 90, a metal ion-containing substance having a structure capable of gradual release or dissolution of metal ions by immersing in washing water may be used in addition to electrolysis. Specific examples of the metal ion-containing substance include zeolite, silica gel, glass, calcium phosphate, zirconium phosphate, silicate, titanium oxide, whisker, ceramics, etc. that carry metal ions. And the like.

[0066] Here, washing water refers to all fluids used in a washing machine, such as water used for easy washing and cooling water for dehumidification.

[0067] With these methods, the metal ions added to the washing water exhibit a sterilizing action during washing or adhere to the inside of the laundry or the washing machine 1 as the washing machine 1 operates. Demonstrate antibacterial action. However, some of them flow into the drainage hose 60 via the drainage pipe 61 and drainage valve 62 that do not adhere anywhere. The metal ions flowing into the drain hose 60 flow into the metal ion recovery unit 200, and the metal ions are removed. The drainage is then discharged to the sewage outlet.

Next, basic operations of the washing machine 1 will be described with reference to FIG.

FIG. 4 is a flowchart of the entire washing process of the washing machine 1.

[0070] As shown in FIG. 4, in step S001, a laundry washing process is performed. When supplying water The main water supply valve 50a is opened, and water is poured into the washing tub 30 through the main water supply pipe 52a and the water supply port 53. At this time, the detergent is also put into the washing tub. At this point, the drain valve 62 is closed. When the water level switch 71 detects the set water level, the water supply valve 50a is closed. Pulsator 33 rotates in reverse, allowing the laundry to become familiar with the water. According to the user setting, the motor 41 rotates the pulsator 33 in a predetermined pattern to form a main water flow for washing in the washing tub 30. Laundry of laundry is performed by this main water flow. The brake is applied to the dewatering shaft 44 by the brake device 43, and the washing tub 30 does not rotate even if the laundry and washing water move. After the main water flow period has elapsed, the pulsator 33 reverses in small steps to loosen the laundry so that the laundry is distributed in a balanced manner in the washing tub 30. This prepares for the spin-drying of the washing tub 30.

Next, in step S002, a draining process is performed. First, the drain valve 62 is opened. As a result, the washing water in the washing tub 30 is drained. The drain valve 62 remains open during the drainage and dewatering processes.

[0072] In step S003, an intermediate dehydration step is performed. After a relatively low-speed dehydration operation, a high-speed dehydration operation is performed. Stop the power supply to the motor 41 and apply brakes. The clutch mechanism 42 and the brake mechanism 43 are switched when most of the washing water in the washing tub 30 and the washing power is drained. The switching timing of the clutch mechanism 42 and the brake mechanism 43 may be before the start of drainage or at the same time as drainage. Next, the motor 41 rotates the dehydrating shaft 44. Thereby, the washing tub 30 performs the dehydration operation. At this time, the pulsator 33 also rotates together with the washing tub 30. When the washing tub 30 rotates, the laundry is pressed against the inner peripheral wall of the washing tub 30 by centrifugal force. The washing water contained in the laundry also collects on the inner surface of the peripheral wall of the washing tub 30. At this time, the washing water that has received the centrifugal force also releases the dewatering hole 31 force of the washing tub 30. The washing water discharged from the dewatering hole 31 is hit against the inner surface of the water tank 20 and flows down to the bottom of the water tank 20 along the inner surface of the water tank 20. The washing water that has flowed down to the bottom of the water tank 20 is discharged outside the exterior 10 through the drain pipe 61 and the drain hose 60 that follows.

[0073] In step S004, the first rinsing process is performed. When supplying metal ions to the laundry, the main water supply valve 50a opens and the metal ion water generating means 90 generates silver ions by electrolysis. The water containing metal ions is poured into the washing tub 30 through the main water supply pipe 52a and the water supply port 53. If metal ions are not supplied to the laundry, electrolysis should not be performed with the metal ion water generating means 90!

[0074] Regardless of whether or not the power for supplying metal ions is supplied, the sub water supply valve 50b is opened, and water is supplied through the sub water supply pipe 52b and the water supply port 53 in parallel. When using a finishing agent such as a softening agent, insert the finishing agent.

[0075] After supplying water to the set water level, the motor 41 rotates the pulsator 33 in a predetermined pattern according to the setting of the user, and forms a main water flow for rinsing in the washing tub 30. The main water stream stirs the laundry and rinses the laundry. The dehydrating shaft 44 is braked by the brake mechanism 43, and the washing tub 30 does not rotate even if the rinse water and the laundry move. After the agitation period has elapsed, the pulsator 33 moves in small steps to loosen the laundry. Thus, the laundry is distributed in the washing tub 30 in a well-balanced manner to prepare for the dewatering process. In the above description, it is assumed that the “reservoir rinse” is performed in which the rinse water is stored in the washing tub 30 and is rinsed. It is also possible to perform a “shower rinse” in which water is poured into the laundry from the water supply port 53 while rotating the tank 30 at a low speed! /.

[0076] In step S005, a draining process is performed in the same manner as in step S002.

[0077] In step S006, an intermediate dehydration step is performed as in step S003.

In step S007, a final rinsing process is performed. Rub as in step S004.

[0079] In step S008, a dehydration step is performed. First, the drain valve 62 is opened. As a result, the washing water in the washing tub 30 is drained. The drain valve 62 remains open during the dehydration process. Next, after a relatively low speed dewatering operation, a high speed dewatering operation is performed. Stop the power supply to the motor 41 and apply brakes. When most of the washing water is drained from the washing tub 30 and the laundry, the clutch mechanism 42 and the brake mechanism 43 are switched. The switching timing of the clutch mechanism 42 and the brake mechanism 43 may be the same as before the start of drainage or at the same time as drainage. Next, the motor 41 rotates the dehydrating shaft 44. As a result, the washing tub 30 performs the dehydration operation. At this time, the pulsator 33 also rotates with the washing tub 30. When the washing tub 30 rotates, the laundry is pressed against the inner peripheral wall of the washing tub 30 by centrifugal force. And laundry The washing water contained in the water also collects on the inner wall of the washing tub 30. At this time, the washing water that has received the centrifugal force is discharged from the dewatering hole 31 of the washing tub 30. The washing water discharged from the dewatering hole 31 is hit against the inner surface of the water tank 20 and flows down to the bottom of the water tank 20 along the inner surface of the water tank 20. The washing water that has flowed down to the bottom of the water tank 20 is discharged to the outside of the exterior 10 through the drain pipe 61 and the drain hose 60 that follows.

In the above washing process, the drain valve 62 is opened in the draining process and the dehydrating process, and the water in the washing tub 30 flows into the drain hose 60 through the drain pipe 61 and the drain valve 62. In the drain hose 60, a metal ion recovery unit 200 is disposed outside the exterior 10 of the washing machine 1.

[0081] As described above, when the washing machine is equipped with a metal ion recovery unit and the recovered metal ions are valuable metals such as silver and copper, when the user disposes of the washing machine, the manufacturer or disposal contractor By collecting the washing machine, etc., valuable metals can be collected, and valuable metals can be sold or reused. For this reason, it is possible to bring about cost advantages in collecting the washing machine, promote the collection and recycling of the washing machine, and suppress illegal disposal.

FIG. 5 is a diagram showing the metal ion recovery unit attached to the drain hose. Fig 5

(A) shows a state where the metal ion recovery unit is attached to the drain hose. Figures 5 (B) and (C) show the interior of the metal ion recovery unit.

As shown in FIG. 5A, the metal ion recovery unit 200 is installed in the middle of the drainage hose 60. The connecting part between the drainage hose 60 and the metal ion recovery unit 200 can be inserted and removed.

[0084] When the metal ion recovery unit 200 is installed inside the washing machine, the washing machine 1 such as the exterior 10 is disassembled, and the metal ion recovery unit 200 is taken out, or the washing machine 1 including the metal ion recovery unit 200 is included. Need to be crushed.

[0085] The metal ion recovery unit 200 is taken out by disassembling the washing machine main body by extracting a specific washing machine (washing machine equipped with a metal ion recovery unit) from the recycling process of the washing machine. Since it is necessary to carry out disassembly and crushing in the work, it is not realistic. In particular, the exterior of the washing machine can withstand vibration during washing, and the water tank 20 and motor 41 can be suspended. Since it is suspended by the member 21, it is necessary to support its weight, so it is made firmly and is difficult to disassemble.

[0086] In addition, if the washing machine is crushed with the metal ion recovery unit 200 included, the resulting shredder dust may contain something other than the metal ion recovery unit 200. The rate decreases and the recycling efficiency decreases.

[0087] Thus, when the metal ion recovery unit 200 is installed in the drainage hose 60 outside the exterior 10 of the washing machine in this way, when the washing machine 1 is recovered and recycled, the washing machine 1 such as the exterior 10 The metal ion recovery unit 200 can be collected without disassembling the main body, which makes it easy to recover the metal.

[0088] In this way, when the washing machine 1 is collected and the used materials are recycled, the metal ion recovery unit 200 that does not interfere with the recycling process can be collected, and the recovered metal can be collected. Can be reused.

[0089] The method of attaching the metal ion recovery unit 200 to the drain hose 60 is not limited to the insertion type shown in FIG. Since the metal ion recovery unit 200 may be easily removed from the washing machine 1 main body, for example, a screw type may be used. Also, at least a part of the drain hose may be made of a soft material so that it can be cut with a cutter.

The drain hose 60 that is detachable from the metal ion recovery unit 200 may be the drain hose 60 on the upstream side of the metal ion recovery unit 200 only. In this case, the downstream side of the force drainage hose 60 that is to be collected together with the metal ion recovery unit 200 should be formed of an organic substance such as resin on the downstream side of the metal ion recovery unit 200. The metal can be separated by burning the metal ion recovery unit 200 and the drain hose 60 together. When the separation of the metal from the metal ion recovery unit 200 is performed by mixing it in the metal purification process, the organic matter can be easily removed. Therefore, the metal can be effectively removed by forming the metal ion recovery unit 200 with the organic matter. It can be recovered.

[0091] When the metal ion recovery unit 200 is installed inside the washing machine 1, the connecting portion between the metal ion recovery unit 200 and the washing machine 1 needs to withstand the vibration of the washing machine 1, so that the plug-in type It is difficult to make such a structure that can be easily attached and detached. However, the metal ion recovery unit 200 is installed in the middle of the drain hose 60, and the upstream side is formed of a soft material. For example, the vibration of the washing machine is not transmitted to the metal ion recovery unit 200, and the structure can be easily attached and detached.

The metal ion recovery unit 200 has an adsorbent 201 supported therein, and can recover metal with the adsorbent 201.

As an example, as shown in FIGS. 5B and 5C, a recess 202 is formed on the inner peripheral wall of the metal ion recovery unit 200, and particles of the adsorbent 201 are stored in the recess 202. ing. A filter 203 is attached to the opening of the concave portion 202 so that silver ions pass through but prevent entry of lint and the like. As shown in FIG. 5B, a plurality of recesses 202 may be provided. As shown in FIG. 5C, a single recess 202 may be provided.

[0095] In this way, by allowing the water that has passed through the filter 203 to come into contact with the adsorbent 201, lint or the like adheres to the adsorbent 201 or is clogged in the metal ion recovery unit 200. Can be prevented. Since the metal ions to be adsorbed are dissolved in water, even if there is a filter 203, they can be in contact with the adsorbent 201 without any problem and adsorbed on the adsorbent 201.

[0096] The adsorbent 201 may be kneaded into rosin or the like. In that case, since only the adsorbent on the surface acts, it is desirable to roughen the surface of the inner wall of the metal ion recovery unit 200 with plasma or to make it porous by foaming or the like. Further, it may be mixed with paint or the like and adhered to the surface of the inner wall of the metal ion recovery unit 200.

[0097] By doing so, the metal ions supplied to the water used for washing can be recovered.

[0098] As the adsorbent 201, for example, a synthetic adsorbent such as a polysiloxane compound having thiol as a functional group can be used. If the adsorbent has a thiol group on the surface of the adsorbent, it is very easy to bind to the silver ion force, so the silver ion reacts with the ion in the thiol group as shown in the following formula. Silver ions are adsorbed on the adsorbent 201.

[0099] (SiO) (CH) SH + Ag + → (SiO) (CH) SAg + H +

3 n 2 3 3 n 2 3

[0100] Other metal ions contained in tap water are less likely to bind to io. So this The adsorbent can selectively adsorb silver ions.

[0101] Water used for washing, such as tap water, contains many metal ions in addition to metal ions added as finishing substances. Metal ions added for antibacterial purposes are usually contained in washing water at a concentration of about 50 gZL to 10 mgZL, but general tap water is sodium ions, calcium ions, potassium at a concentration of several tens of mgZL. It often contains ions and magnesium ions. The adsorbent that adsorbs such metal ions contained in tap water will be saturated without sufficiently adsorbing the metal ions to be recovered, added as a finishing substance. For this reason, the life of the adsorbent is shortened, and it is necessary to provide a large amount of adsorbent in the metal ion recovery unit. Therefore, the effect of the metal ion recovery unit can be maintained by using an adsorbent that is selective for the metal ions added as a finishing substance.

[0102] Synthetic adsorbents attached with functional groups containing thio such as thiol and polyurea are particularly excellent in adsorption and selectivity for precious metals such as silver and copper, and are added to washing water in a washing machine. This is particularly effective when the metal ion is the above metal ion.

[0103] Antibacterial silver ions and Z or antifungal copper ions are often added as laundry finishing agents. Therefore, by using an adsorbent that selectively adsorbs these ions, metal ions added during washing can be efficiently recovered.

[0104] Other adsorbents may be used. In addition to the synthetic adsorbent, for example, zeolite or cation exchange resin can be used.

[0105] Further, reduction-deposition-adsorption may be performed by a microorganism such as a metal ion-reducing bacterium or a metal ion reductase. As metal ion-reducing bacteria, bacteria that selectively reduce silver ions to precipitate silver, such as those listed in PNAS96 (24): 13611-13614 “Silver—based crystalline nanoparticles, microbially fabricatedj”. is there.

[0106] Further, reduction and precipitation may be performed using a metal lower than the target metal. For example, silver is nobler than iron, so when iron with a large surface area such as steel wool is brought into contact with a liquid containing these ions, the following reaction occurs and silver is recovered on the surface of steel wool: be able to. This method is more precious than iron ions such as silver ions and copper ions. This is a selective recovery method for ions.

[0107] 2Ag ⁺ + Fe → 2Ag + Fe ²⁺

[0108] Like these methods, metal ions added at the time of washing are used by using a recovery method that can selectively recover added metal ions compared to metal ions contained in general tap water. Can be efficiently recovered.

[0109] Alternatively, an electrical method in which metal is deposited on the cathode by electrolysis may be used. In this method, a voltage is applied between the electrodes, and the metal is deposited by a cathodic reaction as shown in the following formula.

[0110] Ag ⁺⁺ e "→ Ag

[0111] The metal ion recovery unit 200 that has adsorbed silver as described above is removed when the washing machine 1 is collected, and the metal in the metal ion recovery unit 200 is recycled. As a recycling method, for example, organic substances collected together with the metal ion recovery unit 200 are burned and removed, and the residue is dissolved at a high temperature, and electrolytic scouring is performed. Also, it can be scoured by mixing it into the normal scouring process such as copper or silver ore.

[0112] An organic substance such as an ion exchange resin or reductase is used as an adsorbent, and the housing of the metal ion recovery unit 200 is also formed of the resin, so that the metal ion recovery unit 200 can be recovered when burned. Only metal can be obtained. When the metal from the metal ion recovery unit 200 is separated by mixing in the metal refining process, the organic matter can be easily separated from the metal by burning, so the metal ion recovery unit 200 is formed of the organic matter. It is effective.

[0113] <Second Embodiment>

FIG. 6 is a diagram showing a schematic cross section of a drainage path of a washing machine as another embodiment of the present invention. Except for the drainage route, the washing machine of the second embodiment has the same configuration as the washing machine of the first embodiment shown in FIG. In addition, in the washing machine 1, as a means for detecting drainage clogging, the control unit 80 includes a timing unit, and the drainage starting force also measures time. The completion of drainage is detected by the water level switch.

[0114] As shown in FIG. 6, the drainage path of this washing machine is provided with a three-way valve 63, and the drainage path is a first drainage path provided with a metal ion recovery unit 200 in the middle through the three-way valve 63. The first drain hose 601 and the second drain into which the waste water from the washing machine flows directly into the sewage It branches off to the second drain hose 602 as a route. By controlling the three-way valve 63 by the control unit 80, the drainage can flow to one or both of the first drainage hose 601 and the second drainage hose 602. The arrows in Fig. 6 indicate the flow of water.

FIG. 6 (A) shows a state where the three-way valve 63 is closed. FIG. 6 (B) shows a state in which the three-way valve 63 is switched so that drainage flows only to the first drainage hose 601 having the metal ion recovery unit 200. FIG. 6 (C) shows a state in which the three-way valve 63 is switched so that the drainage flows only to the second drainage hose 602 that does not have the metal ion recovery unit 200. FIG. 6D shows a state in which the three-way valve 63 is switched so that the drainage flows through both the first drainage hose 601 and the second drainage hose 602.

[0116] As shown in Fig. 4, the sequence of a general washing machine is roughly the three-step power of "washing", "rinsing", and "dehydration". During the rinsing process, a draining process and a dehydrating process are often performed, and special processes are performed. The supply efficiency of metal ions can be improved by supplying the metal ions to the wash water in a later process such as the final rinse process.

[0117] In the second embodiment, for example, metal ions are supplied to the laundry together with water only in the final rinsing process (step S007) in Fig. 4, and the washing process (step S001), rinse 1 (step In step S004), water that does not contain metal ions is supplied. At this time, in the other processes shown in FIG. 4 (Step S002, Step S003, Step SO 05, Step S006), the water is drained through the second drain hose 602 that does not have the metal ion recovery unit 200, and after the final rinse process. Only the first dehydration process is drained through the first drainage hose 601. In this way, metal ions can be recovered in the metal ion recovery unit 200.

[0118] In the washing process of the washing machine, the washing effect is enhanced by applying mechanical force to the laundry by deforming the laundry or bringing the laundry into contact with each other. For this reason, in the washing process of step S001, waste thread may be generated from the laundry. On the other hand, the metal ion recovery unit 200 is effective to increase the contact efficiency between the waste water and the adsorbent in order to improve the adsorption rate of the metal ions from the waste water. For this purpose, it is necessary to form the metal ion recovery unit 200 in a filter shape or to provide a protrusion inside. But, In such a structure, clogging may occur if the wastewater from the washing machine contains lint.

Therefore, the drain hose is branched into a first drain hose 601 having the metal ion recovery unit 200 and a second drain hose 602 not having the metal ion recovery unit 200. By providing multiple drainage channels in this way, it is possible to prevent clogging due to lint by preventing water from passing through the metal ion recovery unit 200, which contains a large amount of lint and does not contain metal ions. In addition, the adsorption rate of metal ions can be improved.

[0120] In particular, in the case of a resin-based adsorbent such as an ion exchange resin, the surfactant contained in the waste water after the washing process is adsorbed on the surface of the resin and the ability as an adsorbent is reduced. However, this can also be prevented by branching the drain hose.

[0121] By doing so, wastewater when metal ions are added as a finish substance passes through the first drain hose 601 having the metal ion recovery unit 200, and metal ions are not added as finish substances. Drainage can pass through the second drainage hose 602 without the metal ion recovery unit 200. Water from the washing process, which contains a lot of lint and does not contain metal ions, does not pass through the metal ion recovery unit 200, so that clogging of the first drain hose 601 with lint etc. is prevented and metal ions are prevented. It is possible to maintain the adsorbing power. In addition, when the adsorbent 201 is a rosin-based resin, if the surfactant used for washing the laundry is adsorbed on the surface of the sorbent, the capacity as the adsorbent decreases, but the first drainage hose 601 and the first By properly using the second drain hose 602, it is possible to prevent a decrease in the adsorbing power of the adsorbent 201 due to the adsorption of the surfactant.

FIG. 7 is a diagram showing a schematic cross section of a drainage hose provided with a filter.

[0123] As shown in Fig. 7, a filter 204 may be provided on the upstream side of the metal ion recovery unit 200. The drainage hose that flows drainage can flow drainage to one or both of the first drainage hose 601 and the second drainage hose 602 by switching the opening and closing of the first valve 64a and the second valve 64b. It can be configured.

By doing so, it is possible to avoid lint and the like from entering the metal ion recovery unit 200 by the filter 204. In addition, the filter 204 comes into contact with the wastewater drained through the second drainage hose 602, and is attached to the filter 204. The worn lint can be washed away with the drainage of the second drainage hose 602, and the filter 204 can be prevented from being clogged.

Next, with reference to FIG. 8, a conventional draining process of the washing machine will be described.

FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing a general draining process in a conventional washing machine.

The main body that makes the predetermined judgment is the control unit 80.

As shown in FIG. 8, in the drainage process, first, the drainage valve 62 is opened in step S009. Water in the rinsing tank 30 is discharged to the drain hose 60 through the drain pipe 61 and drain valve 62. In step S010, check if the drainage is complete. If completion of drainage is not detected, drainage continues. If the completion of drainage is detected, the drainage valve 62 is closed and the drainage process is completed.

Next, with reference to FIG. 9 and FIG. 10, a drainage process in the second embodiment of the present invention will be described.

[0129] Fig. 9 is a flowchart of a process of draining water containing metal ions of a washing machine according to another embodiment of the present invention. The main body that makes the predetermined judgment is the control unit 80.

[0130] When water containing metal ions is drained, first, in step S101, the three-way valve 63 is brought into the state shown in FIG. 6 (B). By doing so, the wastewater flows through the first drainage hose 601 having the metal ion recovery unit 200. Next, in step S102, the drain valve 62 is opened to start draining.

[0131] In step S103, it is confirmed whether or not drainage is completed. If drainage is completed, the process proceeds to step S104 and the drainage process is terminated. If drainage is not completed, the process proceeds to step S105, and it is confirmed whether or not a predetermined time has elapsed. If the predetermined time has not elapsed, the process returns to step S103. If the predetermined time has elapsed, it means that it has been detected that drainage has not been completed, so the process proceeds to step S106, and the three-way valve is set to the state shown in FIG. 6 (D). By doing so, drainage flows through both the first drainage hose 601 and the second drainage hose 602 as another drainage path. Then, it progresses to step S107, and if drainage is completed, it will progress to step S104 and will complete | finish a drainage process. If drainage is not complete, return to step S107.

[0132] FIG. 10 does not include metal ions of a washing machine according to another embodiment of the present invention. It is a flowchart of the drainage process of water.

[0133] When draining water that does not contain metal ions, first, in step S201, the three-way valve 63 is brought into the state shown in Fig. 6C. By doing so, the wastewater flows through the second drainage hose 602 that does not have the metal ion recovery unit 200. Next, in step S202, the drain valve 62 is opened, and drainage is started.

[0134] In step S203, it is confirmed whether or not drainage is completed. If drainage is completed, the process proceeds to step S204, and the drainage process is terminated. If drainage is not completed, the process proceeds to step S205, and it is confirmed whether or not a predetermined time has elapsed. If the predetermined time has not elapsed, the process returns to step S203. If the predetermined time has elapsed, it means that it has been detected that drainage has not been completed. Therefore, the process proceeds to step S206, and the three-way valve is set to the state shown in FIG. 6 (D). By doing so, drainage flows through both the second drainage hose 602 and the first drainage hose 601 as another drainage path. Proceed to step S207, and if drainage is complete, proceed to step S204 to end the drainage process. If drainage is not completed, the process returns to step S207.

[0135] In this way, the drainage clogging is detected by detecting that drainage is not completed even after a predetermined time has elapsed. If a drainage clog is detected, drainage can be carried out using another drainage channel. As a result, washing can be completed even if drainage clogging occurs. At this time, if an error is notified during washing or at the end of washing, the user can be encouraged to respond.

FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an overall cross section of a washing machine as a third embodiment of the present invention. This washing machine is a washing machine with a holeless tub.

[0137] As shown in Fig. 11, the washing tub 30b has a taper-shaped peripheral wall that gradually spreads upward as it is directed. This peripheral wall has no opening for allowing liquid to pass therethrough except for a plurality of dewatering holes 31 arranged in an annular shape at the uppermost portion thereof. When storing water in the washing tub 3 Ob during washing or rinsing, water does not accumulate in the outer tub 20b. During dehydration, the water stored in the laundry rises along the peripheral wall of the washing tub 30b by rotating the washing tub after draining most of the stored water, and the uppermost dehydration. Inside hole 20b from hole 31 To be discharged.

[0138] In such a washing machine, the metal ion recovery unit 200 is provided in the drainage path from the outer tub 20b. Furthermore, for example, when metal ion treatment is performed at the time of final rinsing, the water at the time of rinsing is not drained before dehydration, and the washing tub 30b is rotated and discharged from the dehydration hole 31. Wastewater containing can be passed through the metal ion recovery unit 200.

[0139] In this case, unlike the second embodiment, the force of the intermediate dewatered water after the washing process also passes through the metal ion recovery unit 200. This water is the pole contained in the laundry. It is a little water, and it is difficult for the yarn waste to rise along the peripheral wall of the washing tub 30b and pass through the dewatering hole 31. Don't be.

In addition, a door 205 is provided in part of the exterior 112. Through the door 205, the metal ion recovery unit 200 can be removed. Filter 204 can also be maintained from this door 205!

[0141] Further, the present invention is not limited to the fully automatic washing machine of the type described in the above embodiment, but also a horizontal drum (tumbler type), an oblique drum, a dryer combined use, or a two-layer type. It can be applied to a type of washing machine.

[0142] The embodiments disclosed above are to be considered in all respects as illustrative and not restrictive. The scope of the present invention is defined by the scope of the claims not in the above embodiments, and includes all modifications and variations within the scope and meaning equivalent to the scope of the claims.

Industrial applicability

[0143] The washing machine of the present invention can collect metal ions supplied to water used for washing by applying the washing machine to a metal structure capable of imparting metal ions to a textile structure such as clothing. .

Claims

The scope of the claims

[1] A metal ion addition unit (90) for adding metal ions to water;

A washing machine (1), comprising a metal ion recovery unit (200) arranged to come into contact with water added with metal ions by the metal ion addition unit (90) and recovering metal ions in water.

[2] A washing machine (1) capable of imparting metal ions to a fiber structure,

A washing machine (1) provided with a metal ion recovery unit (200) arranged to come into contact with water used for washing and recovering metal ions in water.

[3] The washing machine (1) according to claim 2, wherein the metal ion recovery unit (200) is removable from the washing machine (1).

[4] The metal ion recovery unit (200) includes an adsorbent (2) that selectively recovers a specific metal.

The washing machine (1) according to claim 2, comprising 01).

[5] The washing machine (1) according to claim 4, wherein the specific metal includes at least one of silver ions and copper ions.

[6] The washing machine (1) according to claim 2, further comprising a drainage path (60), wherein the metal ion recovery unit (200) is disposed in the drainage path (60).

[7] The drainage path (60) includes the first drainage path (601) having the metal ion recovery unit (200) and the second drainage path without the metal ion recovery unit (200). The washing machine (1) according to claim 6, comprising (602).

[8] The washing machine (1) according to claim 6, further comprising drainage clogging detection means.

[9] For washing machine (1) capable of imparting metal ions to fiber structure, used for washing

V. A method for recovering metal ions in a washing machine (1), in which a metal ion recovery unit (200) is disposed so as to come into contact with water to be recovered, and metal ions in water are recovered.