WO2008018350A1

WO2008018350A1 - Washing machine

Info

Publication number: WO2008018350A1
Application number: PCT/JP2007/065129
Authority: WO
Inventors: Naho Misumi; Masaji Kukino; Masahiro Yamazaki; Hiroya Hara; Hiroshi Ando; Hiroshige Konishi; Masashi Osada; Norihiko Ishikawa; Kazuhiro Iwase; Akihiro Hoshino; Yumiko Kounai; Masami Yorita
Original assignee: Mitsubishi Electric Corporation; Nihon Kentetsu Co., Ltd.
Priority date: 2006-08-08
Filing date: 2007-08-02
Publication date: 2008-02-14
Also published as: KR20080088599A

Abstract

A washing machine (100) in which a water tank (2) for receiving a washing tank (5) is suspended at four points by suspension mechanisms (30a, 30b, 30c, 30d) having suspension wires (31a, 31b, 31c, 31d) and wire body hoisting means (32a, 32b, 32c, 32d) for hoisting the suspension wires. To take out laundry or clothes, the length of the front side suspension wires (31a, 31b) is extended and the length of the rear side suspension wires is reduced to easily tilt forward the water tank (2). When the water tank (2) is lowered, it is supported by support mechanisms (90a, ...) having support rods (91a, ...) placed in a housing (1). This means that washing, dewatering, etc. can be made with the water tank (2) lowered and a portion of or the entire load of the water tank (2) received by a portion or all of the support mechanisms (90a, ...).

Description

Specification

Washing machine

Technical field

[0001] The present invention relates to a washing machine, and more particularly to a washing machine in which the angle of a water tub can be changed.

Background art

In general, washing machines are roughly classified into a pulsator type and a drum type. In the pulsator method, a pulsator placed in a washing tub is rotated to generate a “circulating water flow”, and the dirt is removed by mechanical action such as friction or vibration and chemical action by a detergent. Yes, laundry is dehydrated by rotating the washing tub (where the pulsator is placed) and using centrifugal force. Furthermore, after drying the clothes, dry the clothes by rotating the pulsator or the washing tub itself while blowing warm air into the washing tub!

On the other hand, in the drum type, a drum (corresponding to a washing tub) having a horizontal rotating shaft is rotated, and the mechanical action and the chemical action by the detergent when the laundry falls in the drum by the rotation are utilized. In order to dehydrate the washed clothes, the drum is rotated and the centrifugal force is used. Further, drying of the clothes after dehydration is performed by blowing hot air into the drum and rotating the drum.

[0003] Naturally, the washing machine has improved cleaning performance for removing dirt adhering to clothing, that is, an improvement in average "cleaning performance for removing dirt" and reduction of "variation in dirt removal". In addition, there is a demand for improving the drying performance of clothing, that is, “acceleration of drying” and “reducing power consumption” while preventing “uneven drying of clothing” and “preventing thermal damage”. .

[0004] However, in the conventional pulsator type washing tub, the rotation axis is perpendicular to the bottom surface (vertical direction), the rotation surface is parallel to the bottom surface (horizontal direction), and the pulsator (or the washing tub itself) is Washing is performed while rotating forward or backward. For this reason, since the water flow generated by the Norsator is concentrated in the center, the fabrics get tangled with each other, and since the vertical flow and movement are difficult to form, effective washing is not performed and the washing power is reduced. It sometimes declined.

So, for example, in the pulsator method as a response to the improvement of cleaning performance, Based on the known knowledge that “washing in a state where the washing tub is tilted improves cleaning performance and reduces variation in dirt removal”, a washing machine having a washing tub fixed obliquely is disclosed. (For example, Patent Documents 1 and 2).

[0005] Furthermore, in order to meet the demand for quick drying, for example, in a pulsator type washing machine capable of performing a series of washing cycles from the washing process to the drying process, the washing tub is limited to the drying process. An invention that improves the drying performance by tilting the clothes and rolling the clothes is disclosed (for example, Patent Document 3).

[0006] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent No. 3193699 (page 3-4, Fig. 1)

Patent Document 2: JP 2000-312800 (Page 3, Fig. 2)

Patent Document 3: JP-A-2-249588 (Page 3, Fig. 1)

Disclosure of the invention

Problems to be solved by the invention

[0007] However, since the washing machines disclosed in Patent Documents 1 and 2 are to be washed in the washing tub, the washing performance is improved, but there are the following problems. there were.

(a) When drying clothes, the rotation surface of the washing tub is not perpendicular to the direction of gravity (the rotation axis is not vertical!), so there is inherently “centrifugal force + gravity component”! / There was a problem that the structure was unbalanced due to the generation of "centrifugal force-gravity component" force.

[0008] (b) Furthermore, when the washing tub or pulsator stops rotating, there is a problem that it becomes difficult to execute the dehydration process because clothes tend to be inclined to one side of the washing tub. In other words, since the rotation surface of the washing tub is not perpendicular to the direction of gravity (because the rotation axis is not vertical), if clothing is biased on one side, the centrifugal force on one side where the clothing is biased is large. As a result, a force of “centrifugal force + gravity component increased by clothing weight (including water)” or “centrifugal component of gravity on the side without clothing” is generated to promote imbalance and increase vibration and noise. It was.

[0009] On the other hand, the washing machine disclosed in Patent Document 3 is dried by tilting the washing tub and then rotating the rotating shaft vertically, and thus is caused by the gravitational component as described in (a) above. Yes There is no imbalance! / However, there was a problem that unbalance occurred in the rotation of the washing tub when the laundry was finished with clothing being biased in the washing tub. [0010] (c) Furthermore, since the washing machines disclosed in Patent Documents 1 to 3 are all washed in an inclined washing tub, there is a problem that the amount of clothes that can be put in is limited. It was. That is, an inclined washing tub has a smaller amount of water that can be stored than a non-tilted washing tub, and the amount of clothing that can be washed with force and water is naturally reduced.

(d) In other words, if a predetermined amount of clothes is made freely washable, a washing tub that is tilted and washed is larger than a washing tub that is washed without tilting, so such a large washing tub is equipped. The washing machine can be read as the problem that its outer dimensions are larger.

(E) Furthermore, in the washing machines disclosed in Patent Documents 1 to 3, the casing is a substantially rectangular parallelepiped, and a clothing outlet for putting in and taking out the clothing is formed on the upper surface of the substantially rectangular parallelepiped. The edge of the upper end opening of the inclined washing tub (especially the edge on the front side) is deep from the clothing outlet, so it can be used for loading and unloading clothes! There was a problem of being bad. In other words, a pulsator type washing machine with a certain capacity or more has a large washing tub, so the clothes outlet is located at a considerable height from the installation surface of the washing machine (same as the floor surface). When putting in or taking out clothing, a person must look into the bottom of the washing tank from the clothing outlet, stretch out to reach out, or bend down. did not become. The poor power and ease of use contributed to the decline in product competitiveness, especially in washing machines with users as housewives.

[0012] In view of the above problems, the inventors of the present invention ensure a good cleaning performance, prevent rotation unbalance of the washing tub during drying, and provide a user-friendly washing machine. Develop it (Japanese Patent Application 2006—74866, etc.).

The present invention further improves the force and the washing machine. By simplifying the tilting mechanism of the washing tub, the manufacturing cost is further reduced, the operation is further silenced, and the washing is further performed. It is an object of the present invention to provide a washing machine that can further clean the surroundings during drying by promoting the sealing of the tank.

[0013] Conventionally, various methods for reducing noise generated by a washing machine have been proposed. For example, in a drum-type washing machine, there is a method for reducing the noise caused by the rotation of the drum by setting the amount of eccentric load generated on the drum to a predetermined threshold value or less. (For example, Patent Document 4). However, in the washing machine that enables tilting of the washing tub, in addition to the familiar noise of the conventional force, new noise accompanying the change of the angle of the water tub is added, so it is confusing for users May cause confusion.

Patent Document 4: Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 2005-177090

[0014] Therefore, the present invention also prevents the user from being confused and confused as much as possible to the noise caused by the change in the angle of the aquarium, in the washing machine capable of changing the angle of the aquarium with respect to the vertical direction. Another object is to provide a washing machine.

Means for solving the problem

[0015] A washing machine according to the present invention comprises a housing,

A washing tub that is housed in the housing and into which clothes are put, and for washing and dehydrating the clothes;

A water tank for storing the washing tub;

A support member for supporting the water tank on the housing;

Changing means for changing the length of the support member between the water tank and the casing, and the process from when the clothes are put into the washing tub until the clothes that have been washed or dehydrated are taken out. Accordingly, the changing means changes the length of the support member, whereby the inclination angle of the water tank is changed.

[0016] In the present invention, the "washing tub" is used for washing and dehydration, and therefore is the same as the "dewatering / washing tub", and is separately dried (for example, supplied with warm air) In this case, it is the same as “drying / dehydrating / washing tub”.

In the present invention, “washing clothes” indicates one or both of “washing” and “rinsing”. Therefore, it includes the case of rinsing to the second inclination angle after washing in the state inclined to the first inclination angle, or the case of rinsing to the upright state after washing in the state of inclination to the predetermined inclination angle. Further, in the present invention, “upright” means a posture perpendicular to the bottom surface of the washing machine, that is, usually a vertical posture, and “inclination” means a predetermined angle with respect to the vertical direction of the bottom surface of the washing machine. It refers to the tilted posture, and the state where the tilt angle of the aquarium changes is called “tilting”.

Further, in the present invention, “clothing” is literally not limited to “clothing”. It includes bedding such as cloth, and daily necessities such as towels and curtains, and includes cloth products and textile products as well as leather products and synthetic resin products.

[0017] Further, the washing machine of the present invention is provided with a housing, a water tub equipped with a laundry dewatering tub, a pulsator disposed at the bottom of the laundry dewatering tub, and the water tub can be inclined. A water tank support means for supporting the water tank, a rotation drive source for rotating the washing and dewatering tank and the pulsator, and an inclination drive source for acting on the water tank support means to change an angle with respect to the vertical direction of the water tank, When changing the angle of the water tank, a water tank state notification device is provided to notify the user that the angle of the water tank is being changed.

In addition, a low noise operation mode is considered without considering noise reduction! / In the low noise operation mode, the tank is placed between an upright state and an inclined state. The number of movements in is less than in the standard operation mode.

Furthermore, a standard operation mode that does not consider noise reduction and a low noise operation mode that considers noise reduction are provided. In the low noise operation mode, the inclination speed of the water tank is made slower than that in the standard operation mode. Is.

The invention's effect

[0018] In the washing machine according to the present invention, the water tank is suspended by a suspension member or the like that is a support member, and the suspension length is changed by the suspension length changing means. Therefore, the inclination angle of the water tank is adjusted by a simple mechanism. Can be changed. Therefore, since the washing tub can be inclined at a desired angle in an arbitrary direction at an appropriate timing, the following effects can be obtained.

(Ii) By installing multiple suspension members and installing suspension length change means for each, the hoisting motor of each suspension length change means can be reduced in capacity, and noise during tilting can be reduced. Suppressing power S Further, the noise can be further suppressed by shifting the driving timing of the hoisting motor.

(Mouth) Even when the main body of the washing machine (same as the housing) is placed on an inclined floor surface, the laundry tub can be rotated by adjusting the suspension lengths of multiple suspension members as appropriate. Since the shaft can be set in the vertical direction, the swinging of the washing tub during dehydration is suppressed, and noise reduction is promoted.

(C) Furthermore, since the washing tub can be lifted and lowered in addition to tilting, If it is taken out, the operation becomes easier. In addition, if the laundry tub is raised after being tilted, the upper edge of the laundry tub and the outer lid can be reliably in contact with each other, and wear and damage to the contact portion can be prevented. Is promoted.

[0019] (2) Since the clothes can be washed while the washing tub is tilted before washing or while the washing tub is tilted during washing, the washing performance is improved.

(E) Because clothes can be dehydrated by placing the washing tub upright in advance before dehydration

Rotational imbalance is reduced or occurrence of rotational imbalance is prevented.

(F) When the clothes are taken out of the washing tub, the washing tub can be inclined, so that the taking-out operation is facilitated and the usability is improved.

[0020] Further, since the washing machine of the present invention includes a water tank state notification device for notifying the user that the water tank is changing the angle, even if noise is generated due to the angle change of the water tank. The noise source can be ascertained and the user's confusion and / or confusion caused by the noise can be reduced. Furthermore, there are a standard operation mode that does not consider noise reduction and a low noise operation mode that considers noise reduction. In the low noise operation mode, the number of movements between the upright state and the inclined state of the aquarium is less than in the standard operation mode. The number of times decreases. Also, in the low noise operation mode, the water tank inclination speed is slower than in the standard operation mode, so in the low noise operation mode, the output of the drive source that moves the water tank can be reduced, and the generated noise is reduced accordingly.

Brief Description of Drawings

FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view and a plan view illustrating a washing machine according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention.

2] A side view and a rear view in a dehydration process for explaining tilting of the washing machine shown in FIG.

3 is a side view and a rear view in the washing process for explaining the tilting of the washing machine shown in FIG. 1.

FIG. 4 is a side view and a rear view in the dehydration process of the washing machine according to Embodiment 2 of the present invention.

FIG. 5 is a side view and a rear view in the washing process of the washing machine according to Embodiment 2 of the present invention.

FIG. 6 is a side view and a rear view in the dehydration process of the washing machine according to Embodiment 3 of the present invention.

FIG. 7 is a side view and a rear view in the washing process of the washing machine according to Embodiment 3 of the present invention.

FIG. 8 is a side view showing a dehydration process and a washing process of the washing machine according to Embodiment 4 of the present invention. FIG. 9 is an enlarged side view of a part of the washing machine according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 10 is a side view in the washing process of the washing machine according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 11 is a side view of a washing machine according to Embodiment 5 of the present invention.

FIG. 12 is a side view in the washing process of the washing machine according to the sixth embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 13 is a side view in a drying process and the like of a washing machine according to Embodiment 7 of the present invention.

FIG. 14 is a side view in a drying process and the like of a washing machine according to Embodiment 8 of the present invention.

FIG. 15 is a partial external view illustrating a washing machine according to Embodiment 9 of the present invention.

FIG. 16 is a side view for explaining tilting of the washing machine according to the tenth embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 17 is a side view that captures the effects of the washing machine according to the tenth embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 18 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of control means in washing machine 100 shown in FIG.

FIG. 19 is a schematic flowchart of a control method in washing machine 100 shown in FIG.

FIG. 20 is a time chart illustrating a control method in washing machine 100 shown in FIG.

FIG. 21 is a time chart illustrating a control method in washing machine 100 shown in FIG.

FIG. 22 is a correlation diagram qualitatively explaining the relationship between the inclination angle of the washing tub and the washing performance.

FIG. 23 is a schematic diagram for explaining the force acting on the washing tub in the washing machine 100 shown in FIG. 1.

FIG. 24 is an internal side view showing a state where the water tub of the washing machine according to Embodiment 11 of the present invention is upright.

FIG. 25 is an internal side view showing a state where the water tub of the washing machine according to Embodiment 11 of the present invention is inclined.

FIG. 26 is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of the control means of the washing machine according to Embodiment 11 of the present invention.

FIG. 27 is an explanatory diagram for comparing the operation control methods between the standard operation mode and the low noise operation mode when the amount of laundry is large.

[FIG. 28] A comparative explanatory diagram of operation control methods between the standard operation mode and the low noise operation mode when the amount of laundry is small! /.

[Fig. 29] Operation time chart for each mode of standard operation mode and low noise operation mode.

Explanation of symbols

1: Housing, 2: Water tank, 2a: Cylindrical part, 2b: Conical part, 2c: Water tank, 3: Water tank flange, 4: Pulse 5: Washing tub, 6: Balancer, 7: Aquarium cover, 8: Inner lid, 9: Outer lid, 10: Top cover, 10a: Partial protrusion, 1 Op: Operation panel, 11: Aquarium motor, 12 : Water supply path, 13: Water supply mechanism, 14: Water supply valve, 15: Fan for drying, 16: Air duct, 17: Heater, 18: Drain hose, 19: Buffer material (Embodiment 6), 20: Packing receiver (Embodiment 7), 21: Ring on the inner lid, 22: Ring on the housing (Embodiment 8), 30: Suspension mechanism (Embodiment 1), 31: Suspension wire, 32: Winding means, 38: Hoisting drum, 39: Hoisting motor, 40a: Suspension mechanism (Embodiment 2), 41a: Suspension bar, 42a: Suspension installation arm, 43a: Coil spring, 40b: Suspension mechanism (Embodiment 2), 41b: Suspension rod, 42b: Suspension installation arm, 43b: Coil spring, 50: Suspension mechanism (Embodiment 2), 51: Suspension wire, 52: Winding means, 53: Coil spring, 54: Suspension 55: Suspension rod 56: Guide arm 60: Suspension mechanism (Embodiment 4) 61: Suspension screw rod 62: Screw rod lifting means 63: Fixed arm 64: Lifting motor 65: Drive screw , 66: driven screw, 70: return mechanism (Embodiment 5), 71: return wire, 73: tensioner, 74: return sheave, 80: display section (Embodiment 9), 81: main power display section, 82 : Driving course display section, 82a: Wash display section, 82b: Rinse display section, 82c: Dehydration display section, 82d: Drying display section, 83: Start display section, 84a: End time display section, 84b: End time display section 85a: Moving display section, 8 5b: Character display section, 85c: Tank tilt display section, 85d: Tank tilt display section, 86c: Vertical display point, 86 d: Vertical display line, 87c: Middle display point, 87d: Middle Display line, 88c: Large display point, 88d: Large display line, 90: Support mechanism, 91: Support bar, 92: Installation arm, 93: Coil spring, 100: Washing machine (Embodiment mode, 1), 110: Control means, 120: input Interface: 121: tilting motor, 122: pinion, 123: rack, 140: output interface, 150: memory, 160: clock control unit, 170: timer, 200: washing machine (Embodiment 2), 300: washing machine (Embodiment 3), 400: Washing machine (Embodiment 4), 500: Washing machine (Embodiment 5), 600: Washing machine (Embodiment 6), 700: Washing machine (Embodiment 7) , 800: Washing machine (Embodiment 8), 900: Washing machine (Embodiment t! 9), 1000: Clothing, 1001: Housing, 1002: Aquarium, 1003: Hanging rod, 1004: 1005: ¾ fciS f, 1006: Nolancer, 1007: Buffalo sono cano, 1008: Inner lid, 1009: Outer lid, 1010: Top cover, 1011: Motor for rotation, 1012: Water supply path, 1013: Water supply mechanism, 1014 : Water supply valve, 1015: Blower fan, 1016: Blower duct, 1017: Heater, 1018: Water hose, 1019: Horizontal base, 1020: Tilt base, 1021: Motor for tilting, 1022 Water tank state Notification device, 1023 operation unit and operation state display unit, 1050: laundry.

BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

[0023] [Embodiment 1; 4-hanging wire type]

1A and 1B illustrate a washing machine according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention. FIG. 1A is a side sectional view, and FIG. 1B is a plan view. In addition, since each structural member is typically shown in the figure, the dimensions, intervals between the parts, and the like are not accurate. In particular, for the members formed of thin plates, the thickness is exaggerated for the sake of clarity. In the following description, the description of the subscripts “a, b, c, d” is omitted for the common contents, and the same or corresponding parts in the respective drawings are denoted by the same reference numerals. Description of the part is omitted.

[0024] (Washing machine)

In FIG. 1 (a), the washing machine 100 performs a series of washing process, rinsing process, dewatering process and drying process, and the washing tub is inclined (rotated) as described later. In the state where the shaft is tilted with respect to the vertical direction), the washing process and the drying process are mainly executed, and the washing tub is in the upright state (the rotation axis is set in the vertical direction), mainly in the rinsing process and dehydration. The process is executed. Therefore, the posture shown in Fig. 1 (a) corresponds to the dehydration process. The washing process and the rinsing process may be collectively referred to as a “washing process”.

[0025] (housing)

The casing 1 has a rectangular cross section (same as a substantially rectangular parallelepiped), and a top cover 10 is installed on the top surface. The top cover 10 has a top opening connected to the front, and a front opening is formed near the top of the front (! /, Left side in Fig. 1 (a)). Opening force S that connects the front opening and the front opening S, it is a clothing entry port for putting clothes in and out

Yes

An outer lid 9 is installed at the clothing insertion opening so as to be freely opened and closed. Further, the top cover 10 is provided with an operation panel 10p, and corners where the surfaces of the housing 1 and the top cover 10 intersect each other are formed in an arc shape (corner R).

[0026] (Water tank)

In FIG. 1 (a), a water tank 2 is housed in a housing 1. The aquarium 2 has a cylindrical shape with the top surface open and the bottom surface closed. An aquarium cover 7 is provided on the upper end surface of the aquarium 2 (same as the periphery of the top opening) in an inner flange shape. That is, the water tank cover 7 has a ring shape, and the clothes are put in and taken out through the inner opening of the ring.

In addition, an inner lid 8 that closes or opens an opening (the same as the inner opening of the ring) of the water tank cover 7 is tiltably installed in the water tank cover 7. That is, the inner lid 8 is arranged below the outer lid 9.

[0027] The opening / closing operation (same as the tilting operation) of the outer lid 9 is transmitted to the inner lid 8 by a not-shown interlocking mechanism (mechanical or electrical means, not shown). The lid 8 is also opened, and when the outer lid 9 is closed, the inner lid 8 is also closed.

In addition, a lid lock mechanism (not shown! /) Is installed to lock the outer lid 9 and the inner lid 8) so that they cannot be opened. The force and the lid lock mechanism may be mechanically performed using an electromagnetic pin that moves forward and backward, or when the outer lid 9 or the inner lid 8) is opened and closed by an electric lid opening / closing drive mechanism. The lid opening / closing drive mechanism may not be electrically driven.

[0028] Since the outer lid 9 and the inner lid 8 are both made of a transparent material (a material having light transmissivity such as a colorless or colored transparent plastic), the outer lid 9 and the inner lid 8 In a state where 8 is closed, the user can visually recognize the state in the washing tub 5 (the state of the clothing 1000 put into the washing tub 5) (see (b) of FIG. 1). Even when the inner lid 8 is removed and the transparent outer lid 9 is provided, the inside of the washing tub 5 can be visually recognized in the same manner.

[0029] (Laundry tub)

Since the washing tub 5 is used for washing, rinsing, dewatering and drying of the input clothes, it is also called a washing / dehydrating tub or a washing / dehydrating / drying tub. The washing tub 5 is rotatably arranged in the water tub 2. That is, since the water tub 2 tilts, the washing tub 5 tilts together with the water tub 2 (this will be described in detail separately). The washing tub 5 has a cylindrical shape with the top surface opened and the bottom surface closed, and a plurality of water passage holes for dehydration are formed on the side surface (not shown). Inside the bottom surface of the washing tub 5, a pulsator 4 for agitating the thrown-in clothes and the poured water (hereinafter referred to as “washing water”) is rotatably arranged. Hereinafter, for the sake of convenience, the rotation of the pulsator 4 is referred to as “turning” in order to distinguish it from the rotation of the washing tub 5. A balancer 6 is installed around the top opening of the washing tub 5. Therefore, the area surrounded by the inner periphery of the Nolancer 6 is used as an opening for putting in and taking out clothes. In addition, since the aquarium cover 7 is installed in the aquarium 2 for storing the washing tub 5, the upper end surface of the balancer 6 is covered with the aquarium cover 7.

[0031] (Water tank motor)

A common aquarium motor 11 for turning the pulsator 4 and rotating the washing tub 5 is installed on the bottom of the aquarium 2. Further, a rotation distributing means (not shown) for distributing the rotation of the water tank motor 11 to the pulsator 4 or the washing tub 5, and a pulsator side rotation transmitting means (not shown) for transmitting the rotation (turning) from the common rotation distributing means to the pulsator 4. ) And a tank side rotation transmitting means (not shown) for transmitting the rotation from the common rotation distributing means to the washing tub 5.

Then, the water tank motor 11 and the rotation distribution means perform predetermined rotation / stop and distribution in the washing process, the dehydration process and the drying process, respectively, according to the command of the control means ( (This will be explained in detail separately.)

[0032] (Water supply and drainage mechanism)

A water supply mechanism 13 is installed on the top surface of the water tank 2 (more precisely, the lower surface side of the water tank cover 7). The water supply mechanism 13 has a water supply path 12 that is led out of the casing 1 and connected to an external water supply, and a water supply valve 14 that is installed in the middle of the water supply path 12 to open and close the flow of water. is doing.

A drain port (not shown) is formed on the bottom surface of the water tank 2, and a drain hose 18 is connected to the drain port. A drain valve (not shown) for opening and closing the circulation of water is provided at the drain port or drain hose 18.

Accordingly, when the water supply valve 14 and the drain valve are closed and the inner lid 8 is closed, the water tank 2 is closed.

[0033] (Drying means)

The drying means dries clothing with hot air, and includes a drying fan 15 for supplying warm air into the washing tub 5 and a heater 17 for heating air during the drying process. The drying fan 15 is installed on the lower surface of the water tank 2 and the casing discharge port of the drying fan 15 There is a heater 17 installed. A blower duct 16 that communicates with the casing discharge port and rises along the outer wall of the water tank 2 and opens at the opening edge of the upper part of the water tank 2 is installed.

That is, the hot air heated by the heater 17 is discharged to the exhaust duct after being used for drying clothes in the washing tub 5. Then, after performing “water-cooled dehumidification” that sprinkles water toward the hot air that is discharged, it is sent to the air duct 16 again. At this time, since the inner lid 8 is closed, the water tank 2 is in a hermetically sealed state, and hot air used for drying does not leak to the surroundings.

[0034] (Suspension mechanism)

The aquarium 2 is suspended in the casing 1 by four suspension mechanisms 30a, 30b, 30c, 30d (hereinafter collectively referred to as “suspending mechanism 30”). That is, the bottom of the tank 2 is formed with water tank flanges 3a, 3b, 3c, 3d that project in four directions, and the suspension wires 31a, 31b, 31c, 31d (hereinafter referred to as the tank wires 3a, 3b, 3c, 3d respectively) The lower end of the “hanging wire 31” collectively is connected. In addition, cable body winding means 32 (more precisely, cable body winding means 32a, 32b, 32c, 32d) are installed at four corners inside the tank 2! /.

The rope hoisting means 32 is provided with an upper end portion of the suspension wire 31, a hoisting drum 38 around which the hoisting wire 31 is wound, a hoisting motor 39 that rotationally drives the hoisting drum, and a control that controls the hoisting motor 39. It is made up of means! /, Ru (V, shift not shown! /,). The suspension wire 31 can be replaced with a rope, a belt, a chain, or the like as long as it is a flexible cable body.

[0035] (Support mechanism)

The tank 2 is damped by four support mechanisms 90a, 90b, 90c, 90d (hereinafter collectively referred to as “support mechanism 90”). That is, at the four corners inside the water tank 2, the support arms 91a, 91b, 91c, 91d, which are substantially vertical or slightly inclined, are provided with installation arms 92a, 92b, 92c, 92d (not shown) 2) and penetrates through holes (not shown) formed in the water tank flanges 3a, 3b, 3c, 3d of the water tank 2, respectively. A buffer mechanism (for example, a coil spring, hereinafter referred to as a “coiner spring”) 93a, 93b, 93c, 93d is telescopically mounted at the lower end of the support rods 91a, 91b, 91c, 91d. Have [0036] Therefore, when the aquarium 2 suspended by the suspension wire 31 is loosened (same as unwinding), the aquarium 2 is compressed by the support rod 91 with the coil spring 93 compressed. It is suspended, that is, part or all of the load of the tank 2 is applied to the support rod 91.

The coil spring 93 can be replaced by a known shock absorber, plate panel, synthetic resin (urethane, etc.) block, etc., as long as it has a buffer function or a vibration damping (or vibration isolation) function. Is. Further, the installation of the coil spring 93 may be omitted.

[0037] (About tilting)

FIGS. 2 and 3 illustrate the tilting of the washing tub in the washing machine according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention, and are schematically shown through the surface of the casing of the washing machine. (A) is a side view in the dewatering process, FIG. 2 (b) is a rear view in the dewatering process, FIG. 3 (a) is a side view in the washing process, and FIG. 3 (b) is a rear view in the washing process. It is.

[0038] In Figs. 2 (a) and (b), the water tank 2 of the washing machine 100 is suspended by four suspension wires 31 (the winding length is adjusted by the independent cable body winding means 32, respectively). Lowered, the central axis is vertical.

Therefore, even if the washing machine is placed on an inclined floor surface, a horizontal sensor is installed, and the suspension length of each suspension wire 31 is determined based on the detection result of the horizontal sensor. By adjusting, the central axis of the water tub 2 (same as the rotation axis of the washing tub 5) can be made vertical. That is, by making a force and a state of being applied, it is possible to suppress the contact of the washing tub 5 in the dehydration process.

Furthermore, since the support rod 91 of the support mechanism 90 (usually not receiving the load of the water tank 2) penetrates the water tank flange 3 of the water tank 2, the vibration of the water tank 2 can be suppressed.

In FIG. 2, the force S in which the water tank flange 3 of the water tank 2 is separated from the coil spring 93 of the support mechanism 90, and one or more of the water tank flange 3 is not limited to this. One or more of the above may be abutted and compressed. That is, a part of the load of the water tank 2 may be received by the support mechanism 90 and the remaining load may be received by the suspension mechanism 30. When the washing machine 100 is placed on a horizontal floor, The suspension wire 31 may be sufficiently loosened so that the full load of the water tank 2 can be received by the support mechanism 90.

[0040] In Figs. 3 (a) and (b), the water tub 2 of the washing machine 100 is suspended by four suspension wires 31, and the central axis is inclined so that the front side is lowered.

That is, the hanging lengths of the front-side hanging wires 31a and 31b are extended (rewinded), and the hanging lengths of the rear-side hanging wires 31c and 31d are shortened (wound up). At this time, since the rope winding means 32 are independent from each other, since the motor constituting the rope has a small capacity, the diameter of the coil winding can be reduced, and the operation timing of the rope winding means 32 can be reduced. By shifting the angle, noise (or vibration) generated during the rewinding and winding can be minimized.

[0041] In addition, in the rope winding means 32, the magnitude of the winding load (motor load)! /, And the rope winding means 32 in the direction may reduce the winding speed to suppress noise.

Note that the hoisting motor constituting the rope hoisting means 32 is operated by the load of the water tank 2 as a generator (generator) when the suspension wire 31 is rewound. Therefore, if the tank 2 is lifted gradually (at low speed) before tilting, and the tank 2 is tilted mainly by rewinding the suspension wire 31, the energy saving effect and the noise of the hoisting motor are reduced. The effect can be expected.

[0042] It should be noted that the above is a force indicating a case where both the suspending length of the front-side suspending wires 31a and 31b and the suspending length of the rear-side suspending wires 31c and 31d are changed. Without limiting the hanging length of the rear hanging wires 31c, 31d, the hanging length of the hanging wires 31a, 31b on the front side may be extended (rewinded), or the front side The suspension lengths of the suspension wires 31a, 31b may be shortened (rolled up) without changing the suspension lengths of the suspension wires 31a, 31b.

[0043] Also, the water tank flanges 3a, 3b on the front side of the water tank 2 are brought into contact with the coin springs 93a, 93b to reduce the tensile force acting on the front side suspension wires 31a, 31b or The tensile force may not be applied to the shears 31a and 31b.

Further, after the washing process or the like is completed, the procedure for erecting the inclined water tank 2 is the reverse of the above. In addition, the timing of water injection or drainage to tank 2 is It is determined according to the demands for power saving or quietness of the means 32 for winding up and winding up the cable body.

[0044] (Inclined posture)

In FIG. 3, since the water tub 2 is inclined toward the front surface, the position of the front end side of the upper end opening of the washing tub 5 moves forward and descends.

At this time, if the upper end edge of the front surface of the housing 1 is kept low, a user standing on the front surface can easily reach the back of the washing tub 5 and the upper opening of the washing tub 5 is tilted. It is easy to see the bottom of the washing tub 5 because it faces the user's line of sight. Therefore, it is easy to take out clothes. At this time, the water tank 2 is locked so as not to be tilted by a locking means (not shown).

Furthermore, if all the hanging wires 31 are rolled up with the washing tub 5 tilted, and the water tub 2 (same as the washing tub 5) is pulled up and locked, the work of taking out the clothes from the washing tub 5 can be made easier. Become.

[0045] The suspension length of the suspension wire 31 (same as the winding length) may be set in advance for each process, or an inclination angle detector that detects the inclination angle of the water tank 2 may be installed. Alternatively, control may be performed based on the detection result of the tilt angle detector. At this time, the type of the tilt angle detector is not limited, but is continuously detected within a tilt range, or a predetermined angle (for example, a maximum tilt angle or an upright position is detected). It can also be non-contact type (optical sensor, magnetic sensor, etc.) or contact type (so-called touch sensor)!

[Embodiment 2; Two-hanging wire type]

4 and 5 illustrate the tilting of the washing tub in the washing machine according to the second embodiment of the present invention, and schematically show the surface of the casing of the washing machine as shown in FIG. (A) is a side view in the dewatering process, FIG. 4 (b) is a rear view in the dehydration process, FIG. 5 (a) is a side view in the washing process, and FIG. 5 (b) is a rear view in the washing process. It is.

4 and 5, the washing machine 200 is different from the washing machine 200 in that the water tank 2 is suspended by the suspension mechanisms 40a and 40b installed on the front side and the suspension mechanisms 50c and 50d installed on the rear side. Unlike the embodiment 100 (Embodiment 1), the other points are the same as the washing machine 100. Less than The difference will be described.

[0047] (Suspension mechanism)

In FIGS. 3 and 4, the suspension mechanisms 40a and 40b are suspension rods 41a and 41b, installation arms 42a and 42b for installing the upper ends of the suspension rods 41a and 41b in a non-detachable manner on the housing 1, and suspension rods. 41a and 41b have coil springs 43a and 43b which are installed at the lower ends of the springs.

Further, the suspension mechanisms 50c, 50d are installed on the suspension wires 51c, 51d and the casing 1, and the upper ends of the suspension wires 51c, 51d are installed, and the rope winding means 52c, 52d for winding / rewinding the winding wires 51c, 51d, Suspension sheaves 54c, 54d for changing the winding / unwinding direction of the suspension wires 51c, 51d, and the lower ends of the suspension wires 51c, 51d こ W are connected to the lower ends of the suspension rods 55c, 55d and suspension rods 55c, 55d Coil springs 53c and 53d installed in a telescopic manner, and guide arms 56c and 56d that are formed in the housing 1 and guide the suspension rods 55c and 55d so that they can be raised and lowered and cannot be removed.

[0048] The cord body winding means 52c and 52d both have a common winding drum (winding / rewinding both the suspension wires 51c and 51d) and a common winding motor that rotationally drives the winding drum. Therefore, the cord body winding means 52c and the cord body winding means 52d are the same (hereinafter referred to as “the cord body winding means 52”).

By installing the rope hoisting means 52 near one of the guide arms 56c and 56d, one of the hanging sheaves 54c and 54d can be omitted. Further, by installing the hoisting means 52c and 52d so that each of the hoisting means 52c and 52d has a separate hoisting drum, and the hoisting drum is installed near the guide arms 56c and 56d, the installation of the suspension sheaves 54c and 54d is omitted. can do. Also, install a known tensioner for the hanging wires 51c and 51d to deal with the aging growth! /.

[0049] (About tilting)

4 (a) and 4 (b), the aquarium 2 of the washing machine 200 has a central axis due to the suspension mechanisms 40a and 40b installed on the front side and the suspension mechanisms 50c and 50d installed on the rear side. It is suspended so as to be vertical. That is, approximately half of the load in the tank 2 is transmitted to the suspension rods 41a and 42b via the coil springs 43a and 43b, and the remaining load force is suspended by the suspension rods 55c and 55d and suspension via the coin springs 53c and 53d. It is transmitted to the wires 51c and 51d. The suspension rods 41a and 41b are installed on the installation arms 42a and 42b, and the suspension rods 55c and 55d are guided by the guide arms 56c and 56d, so they are suspended by these (both receiving the load of the tank 2). The vibration of the lowered tank 2 is suppressed.

[0050] Further, if a horizontal sensor is installed in the casing 1 or the like and the suspension length of the suspension wires 51c and 51d is adjusted based on the detection result of the horizontal sensor, the central axis of the water tub 2 (the washing tub 5 Can be made perpendicular to the rotation axis. That is, by setting the force and the state to be applied, the touch of the washing tub 5 in the dehydration process can be suppressed, and vibration can be further suppressed.

[0051] In Figs. 5 (a) and (b), the water tub 2 of the washing machine 200 is inclined at the center axis so that the rear side is lifted by the suspension wires 51c and 51d and the front side is lowered.

In other words, the rear suspension wires 51c and 51d are wound up, and the suspension rods 55c and 55d are lifted up. (If the distance between the rope winding means 52 and the upper surface of the coil spring 53 is defined as “suspending length”, The length is shortened).

At this time, since the suspension wires 51c and 51d are wound up by a common winding drum, the suspension lengths before and after the winding of both are not inclined in the equal lateral direction.

[0052] In the washing process, as in the dehydration process, the vibration of the water tank 2 is suppressed by the front-side suspension bars 41a and 41b and the rear-side suspension bars 55c and 55d that receive the load of the water tank 2. It is.

The above is the force with which the rear suspension mechanisms 50c and 50d are provided with the suspension rods 55c and 55d. The present invention is not limited to this. The suspension rods 55c and 55d are removed, and the suspension wires 51c and 5 Id are removed. You may connect directly to aquarium 2. At this time, if the support mechanisms 90c and 90d (see Embodiment 1) are installed, the vibration of the water tank 2 can be more reliably suppressed.

Furthermore, in the washing machine 100 (Embodiment 1), the suspension wire 31 may be composed of the suspension wire 51 and the suspension rod 55, and the installation of the support mechanism 90 may be omitted.

[0053] [Embodiment 3; single-hanging wire type]

6 and 7 illustrate the tilting of the washing tub in the washing machine according to Embodiment 3 of the present invention, and schematically show the surface of the casing of the washing machine as shown in FIG. (A) is a side view in the dewatering process, FIG. 6 (b) is a rear view in the dehydration process, FIG. 7 (a) is a side view in the washing process, and FIG. 7 (b) is a rear view in the washing process. It is. 6 and 7, the washing machine 300 is the same as the washing machine 100 in that the water tank 2 is suspended by the suspension mechanisms 40a and 40b installed on the front side and the suspension mechanism 30e installed on the rear side. Unlike the first embodiment, the other points are the same as the washing machine 100. The differences are described below.

[0054] (Suspension mechanism)

6 and 7, the suspension mechanisms 40a and 40b installed on the front side are the same as those in the washing machine 200 (see Embodiment 2).

The suspension mechanism 30e installed on the rear side includes suspension wires 31c and 37d whose lower ends are connected to the tank flanges 3c and 3d of the tank 2, respectively, and suspension wires 31e connected to the upper ends of the suspension wires 31c and 37d. And a rope winding means 32e that is installed in the casing 1 and winds / unwinds the suspension wire 31e. The suspension mechanism 30e is provided with an upper end portion of the suspension wire 31e, a winding drum around which the suspension wire 31e is wound, a winding motor that rotates the winding drum, and a control unit that controls the winding motor. (Do not show any misalignments! /).

Furthermore, support mechanisms 90c and 90d (see Embodiment 1) are installed on the rear side.

[0055] (About tilting)

6 (a) and 6 (b), the water tub 2 of the washing machine 300 has a central axis formed by suspension mechanisms 40a and 40b installed on the front side and support mechanisms 90c and 90d installed on the rear side. It is suspended so that is vertical. The suspension rods 41a and 41b are installed on the installation arms 42a and 42b, and the support rods 91c and 91d are the force supported by the support arms 92c and 92d, and the vibration of the tank 2 Is under load).

Furthermore, if the washing machine 300 is placed on a floor surface that is inclined so that the front side is higher, a horizontal sensor is installed, and the rear side is suspended based on the detection result of the horizontal sensor. If the wire 31e is wound up and the suspension length is adjusted, the central axis of the water tub 2 (same as the rotation axis of the washing tub 5) can be made vertical. At this time, the load of the tank 2 is the force and force of the suspension mechanisms 40a and 40b and the suspension mechanism 30e, but the tank flange 3 of the tank 2 is suspended by the suspension mechanisms 40a and 40b # 4 la, 41b (the load of the tank 2 And the support rods 91c and 91d of the support mechanism 90c and 90d (not subject to the load of the tank 2) are penetrated, so that the vibration of the tank 2 can be suppressed. [0056] In Figs. 7 (a) and (b), the water tub 2 of the washing machine 300 is lifted by a suspension 31e wound up on the rear side, and the central axis is inclined so that the front side is lowered. . That is, the tank 2 is suspended by the suspension mechanisms 40a and 40b installed on the front side and the suspension mechanism 30e installed on the rear side, and the load of the tank 2 is suspended by the suspension mechanisms 40a and 40b and the suspension mechanism 30e. However, the tank flanges 3a and 3b of the tank 2 are suspended by the suspension rods 40a and 40b of the tank 41a and 41b (under the load of the tank 2), and the tank flange 3c of the tank 2 Since the support rods 91c and 91d of the support mechanisms 90c and 90d (not subjected to the load of the water tank 2) pass through 3d, the vibration of the water tank 2 can be suppressed.

[0057] The above is the force S in which the suspension wire 31e is branched in a substantially Y-shape, and both branched ends are connected to the water tank flanges 3c, 3d of the water tank 2, The suspension wire 31e is not limited to this, and may be connected to one power point of the water tank 2 without branching.

[Embodiment 4; Four screw rod type]

8 and 9 schematically illustrate the washing machine according to Embodiment 4 of the present invention, and FIG. 8 (a) is a side view in the dehydration process as seen through the surface of the casing of the washing machine. FIG. 8 (b) is a side view in the washing process, and FIG. 9 is an enlarged side view of the part.

The washing machine 400 is obtained by changing the suspension mechanism 30 in the washing machine 100 (Embodiment 1) to the suspension mechanism 60 and removing the support mechanism 90.

[0059] (Suspension mechanism)

Fig. 9 ίO! /, Suspending mechanism 60 (the basin 2 こ is formed! /, Urinal flanges 3a, 3b, 3c, 3d and the hanging screw rods 61a, 61b, 61 c, 61 d (hereinafter collectively referred to as “suspending screw rod 61”) as a suspension member, and screw rod lifting means 6 2 (to be precise, screw rod lifting means 62 a, 62 b, 62 c, 62d) is used as the suspension length changing means.

The screw rod elevating means 62 includes a fixed arm 63 formed on the housing 1, an elevating motor 64 fixed to the fixed arm 63, a drive screw 65 fixed to the rotating shaft of the elevating motor 64, and a hanging screw rod. 61 and a driven screw 66 that engages with the drive screw 65. [0060] Therefore, when the lifting motor 64 is rotated by a predetermined rotation number or rotation angle, the driven screw 66 is rotated via the drive screw 65, so that the suspension screw rod 61 is lifted and lowered by a predetermined distance. At this time, since the driven screw 66 is formed integrally with the suspension screw rod 61, the suspension screw rod 61 rotates during the elevation.

The driven screw 66 may be installed so as to be restrained in the axial direction of the suspension screw rod 61 and to be rotatable in the circumferential direction. At this time, the hanging screw rod 61 does not rotate during ascent and descent.

Further, the present invention is not limited to the suspension mechanism 60 being a “screw mechanism”, and may be a rack / pinion mechanism or the like as long as it is a mechanism that changes the rotation of the motor to the translational motion of the suspension member. Furthermore, the tip of the suspension screw rod 61 is installed on the fixed arm 63 formed on the housing 1, the lifting motor 64 is fixed on the tank flange 3 formed on the water tank 2, and the drive screw 65 and the driven screw 66 are connected. You may make it rub.

[0061] The suspension mechanism 30 (four suspension wire type) has been changed to the suspension mechanism 60 (four threaded rod type). The suspension mechanism 40 (two suspension wire type, implemented) Embodiment 2) and the suspension mechanism 50 (single suspension wire type, Embodiment 3) can also be changed to those having suspension screw rods and screw rod lifting means.

[0062] (Tapered water tank)

In FIG. 8, the washing machine 400 is provided with a water tank 2 c that tapers downward instead of the cylindrical water tank 2. That is, the water tank 2c is formed from a cylindrical part 2a and a conical part 2b connected to the cylindrical part 2a (the lower part of the water tank 2c is! /, So-called “D-cut”! /, The same). Water tank flanges 3a, 3b, 3c, and 3d are formed on the side surfaces of the conical portion 2b, and the lower ends of the suspension screw rods 61a, 61b, 61c, and 61d are respectively installed.

[0063] When the water tank 2c stands upright in FIG. 8 (a), the side surface of the cylindrical portion 2a becomes parallel to the rear surface of the housing 1, and when the water tank 2c is inclined in FIG. 8 (b). The side surface of the conical portion 2b is parallel to the back surface of the housing 1. That is, since the outer periphery of the bottom surface of the water tank 2c does not contact the side surface of the casing 1, the depth of the casing 1 (the distance in the left-right direction in FIG. 8) can be reduced. At this time, the force and the effect (reduction in depth due to the provision of the conical portion 2b) are such that the tilting center of the water tank 2c is closer to the rear surface of the casing 1 (right direction in FIG. 8) or closer to the top surface (upward in FIG. 8). However, this will lead to a decrease in the internal volume of the tank 2c. Therefore, the size of the conical portion 2b is determined based on the size of the housing 1, the size of the washing tub 5, and the like.

The tapered water tank 2c can be installed in the washing machines 100 to 300 (Embodiments 1 to 3).

[Embodiment 5; Single return wire type]

FIG. 10 is a side view for explaining the tilting of the washing tub in the washing machine according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention, in the washing process.

In FIG. 10, the washing machine 500 is configured such that the wire 31e in the suspension mechanism 30e of the washing machine 300 (see Embodiment 3) is changed to a non-branching suspension wire 31f and connected to the side surface of the aquarium 2, and on the rear side. The difference between the washing machine 300 (Embodiment 3) and the other points is the same as the washing machine 300 in that the pullback mechanism 70 is installed. Hereinafter, differences will be described.

[0065] (Suspension mechanism)

In FIG. 10, the suspension mechanism 30f winds up / rewinds the suspension wire 31f whose lower end is connected to the aquarium flange 3f formed on the outer surface of the aquarium 2, and the suspension wire 31f connected to the upper end of the suspension wire 31f. It is comprised from the rope body winding means 32f. The rope winding means 32f is installed at the upper end of the suspension wire 31f, and controls the winding drum 38f around which the suspension wire 31f winds, the winding motor 39f that rotates the winding drum 38f, and the winding motor 39f. It is equipped with control means (not shown! /).

[0066] (Return mechanism)

In FIG. 10, the return mechanism 70 includes a return wire 71 having one end connected to a water tank flange 3 g formed on the rear surface side of the housing 2, and a return that changes the winding / unwinding direction of the return wire 71. A sheave 74 and a tensioner 73 that applies a predetermined tension to the return wire 71 are provided, and the other end of the return wire 71 is installed on the winding drum 38f of the suspension mechanism 30f.

In addition, the above is the force with which the rope hoisting means 32f is installed near the top surface of the casing 1. The present invention is not limited to this. The body lifting means 32f may be installed near the ground of the housing 1. At this time, return Sieve 74 is no longer needed.

It should be noted that the rope winding means for winding or unwinding only the return wire 71 may be provided separately from the suspension mechanism 30f. At this time, the rope winding means of the return wire 71 may be arranged near the ground of the housing, and the installation of the return sheave 74 may be omitted.

[0067] (About tilting)

The tilt of the water tank 2 in the washing machine 500 conforms to the tilt of the water tank 2 of the washing machine 300 (see Embodiment 3). However, in the washing machine 500, the return wire 71 is rewound by the same amount as the suspension wire 31f is wound up, and similarly, the suspension wire 31f is rewound by the same amount as the return wire 71 is wound up. It is.

Therefore, even if the center of gravity of the aquarium 2 moves to the front side while the aquarium 2 is tilted toward the front, and the aquarium 2 can be tilted by its own weight, there is a force, a voluntary tilt. The tilting speed can be controlled by the unwinding speed of the return wire 71.

[0068] In addition, the center of gravity of the water tank 2 is on the front side (for example, when the tilting fulcrum of the water tank 2 is near the center of the casing 1 or near the rear surface), and the water tank 2 is inclined to the front side by its own weight. Even if it is, it is possible to force the water tank 2 upright by winding up the return wire 71. Accordingly, the degree of freedom in selecting the position of the tilting fulcrum is expanded.

Note that the tensioner 73 is installed on the return wire 71. Alternatively, or in addition to this, the tensioner 73 may be installed on the suspension wire 31f. Further, when the return wire 71 and the suspension wire 31f are installed at the same position in the water tank 2, the installation amount of the tensioner 73 is omitted because the amount of the one winding is equal to the amount of the other winding. Anyway! Note that the tilting mechanism of the water tank 2 is not limited to that applied to the suspension support portion of the water tank 2 as shown in the above embodiment;! To 5, as shown in FIGS. 11 (a) to (d). The tilting mechanism of the aquarium 2 in which the pinion 122 is fixed to the rotation shaft of the tilting motor 121 arranged on the lower side or the side of the aquarium 2 so that the pinion 122 and the rack 123 that can be moved up and down are held together. It may be.

[Embodiment 6; cushioning material contact type]

FIG. 12 illustrates the washing machine according to Embodiment 6 of the present invention, and the surface of the casing of the washing machine is transparent. It is a side view in the washing process shown and shown typically.

In FIG. 12, a washing machine 600 has a cushioning material 19 installed on the inner side of the front surface of the casing 1 of the washing machine 400 (see Embodiment 4). Therefore, the buffer material 19 becomes a buffer material when the water tank 2 collides and also functions as a stagger to stop the tilting. Therefore, it is necessary to secure the clearance with the casing 1 and stop the tilting of the water tank 2. Since there is no more, use the force S to increase the tilt angle.

Also, if a reinforcing plate is installed inside the front surface of the casing 1 and the cushioning material 19 is installed on the reinforcing plate, even if the water tank 2 shakes and collides with the casing 1 in the washing process, the cushioning material 19 Since the impact is alleviated and the casing 1 is reinforced by the reinforcing plate, the casing 1 is not deformed or damaged.

[0070] The above is the force installed on the front surface of housing 1 (left side in Fig. 12). The present invention is not limited to this, and is installed on the rear surface of housing 1 (right side in Fig. 12). Thus, the conical portion 2b of the water tank 2c may abut. Furthermore, the cushioning material 19 may be installed outside the water tank 2c in place of the inside of the housing 1 or in addition to the inside of the housing 1.

Furthermore, the cushioning material 19 may be installed in the washing machine 100, 200, 300, 500 (see tll, 2, 3, 5) and the washing machine in FIG.

[Embodiment 7; inner lid sealed type]

FIG. 13 schematically illustrates the washing machine according to the seventh embodiment of the present invention, with a perspective view of the surface of the casing of the washing machine, (a) a side view in the dehydration step, and (b) A side view immediately before the drying step, (c) is a side view in the drying step.

In FIG. 13, the washing machine 700 includes an inner lid ring 21 made of a packing receiver 20 installed inside the top cover 10 and an elastic annular material (for example, rubber) installed on the upper edge of the water tank 2. Is different from the washing machine 200 (see Embodiment 2), and the other points are the same as the washing machine 200. Note that the illustration of the suspension wire 51 and the rope winding means 52 is simplified.

In FIG. 13 (a), the water tank 2 is upright. At this time, the packing receiver 20 and the inner lid upper ring 21 are separated from each other! /, So the upper part of the tank 2 is opened! /.

In FIG. 13 (b), the aquarium 2 is inclined to the front side and outside the packing receiver 20 near the rear surface. Although the peripheral edge portion “A” is in contact with the outer peripheral edge portion “C” near the rear surface of the inner lid upper ring 21, the outer peripheral edge portion “B” near the front surface of the packing receiver 20 and the inner lid upper ring 21 It is separated from the outer peripheral edge “C” near the front of the ring 21. Accordingly, a wedge-shaped opening is formed in a side view.

In FIG. 13 (c), the water tank 2 is further inclined to the front side. For this reason, the outer peripheral edge “B” near the rear surface of the inner lid upper ring 21 pushes up the outer peripheral edge “A” near the rear surface of the packing receiver 20, and the packing receiver 20 tilts like a seesaw. Then, the outer peripheral edge “B” near the front is pushed down. Therefore, the entire circumference of the inner lid upper ring 21 is in contact with the packing receiver 20, and the water tank 2 has a sealed structure. Therefore, if the drying process is executed in such a state, the air circulating in the water tank 2 does not leak from the water tank 2. That is, water vapor and water droplets do not adhere around the washing machine 700 during the drying process.

[0074] It should be noted that the above is the force S indicating that the lower surface of the packing receiver 20 and the upper surface of the inner lid upper ring 21 are flat surfaces, and one or both of them are not limited to this. You may make it a cross-sectional circular arc surface (a part of side surface of a cylinder). At this time, it is possible to reduce the degree of contact of the inner lid upper ring 21 while the water tank 2 is tilting.

[0075] In addition, the above is the force S in which the packing receiver 20 and the inner lid upper ring 21 are installed in the washing machine 200, and the present invention is not limited thereto. The washing machines 100, 300 to 600 (implementation) The packing receiver 20 and the inner lid upper ring 21 may be installed in the above-mentioned forms 1, 3 to 6).

[Embodiment 8; outer lid sealed type]

FIG. 14 illustrates a washing machine according to Embodiment 8 of the present invention, schematically showing the case surface of the washing machine in perspective, (a) is a side view in the washing process, and (b) is a side view. It is a side view just before a drying process.

In FIG. 14, the washing machine 800 includes all the suspension mechanisms 30 (four suspension wire type, see Embodiment 1) of the washing machine 100, and the suspension mechanism 50 (two suspension wire type, Embodiment 2) of the washing machine 200. In addition, it has an elastic ring material (for example, rubber) installed on the upper edge of the water tank 2 and a housing upper ring 22 that also has a force, and the support mechanism 90 and the inner lid 8 have been removed. (Corresponding to the so-called “inner lid-less”).

That is, suspension mechanisms 50a, 50b, 51c, and 50d are arranged at the four internal corners of the housing 1. It should be noted that the suspension wire 51 and the rope hoisting means 52 constituting the suspension mechanism 50 are simplified. I'm plain.

In FIG. 14 (a), for example, in the washing process, the water tank 2 is inclined. At this time, the load on the water tank 2 is such that the front side of the water tank 2 supports the guide arms 56a and 56b, which support it so that they cannot be removed via the suspension rods 55a and 55b. Via the cable winding means 52c and 52d (see FIG. 5). Since the outer lid 9 and the housing upper ring 22 are separated from each other, the upper part of the water tank 2 is opened.

In FIG. 14 (b), all the suspension wires 51 are wound up, and the water tank 2 is lifted while being inclined. That is, the load of the water tank 2 flows into the rope hoisting means 52 through all the suspension rods 55 and the suspension wires 51 (see FIG. 5).

Since the entire circumference of the upper ring 22 is in contact with the outer lid 9, the water tank 2 has a sealed structure. Therefore, if the drying process is executed in such a state, the air circulating in the water tank 2 does not leak from the water tank 2. That is, water vapor and water droplets do not adhere around the washing machine 800 during the drying process.

It should be noted that the force indicating that the lower surface of the outer lid 9 and the upper surface of the housing upper ring 22 are flat. The present invention is not limited to this, and the entire circumference of the housing upper ring 22 is the outer lid. As long as it abuts on 9, any shape may be used. In addition, if a compressible elastic sealing means is installed on the upper surface of the upper ring 22, the above-mentioned sealing becomes more reliable, and the shape of the lower surface of the outer lid 9 and the upper surface of the upper ring 22 is different. Even in this case, the sealing can be performed.

[0079] Furthermore, since the type of the suspension member of the washing machine 800 is not limited, the same applies to the washing machine 400 (see Embodiment 4) from which the inner lid 8 has been removed. The water tank 2c can be sealed by the above operation.

[0080] [Embodiment 9; tilt display type]

FIG. 15 is a partial external view for explaining a washing machine according to the ninth embodiment of the present invention. The washing machines 900a, 900b, 900c, and 900d (hereinafter collectively referred to as the washing machine 900) described below are provided with display portions 80a, 80b, 80c, and 80d (hereinafter collectively referred to as the display portion 80), respectively. It is characterized by that. Therefore, the washing machine 900 is the same as the washing machine 100 to 800 (Embodiments;! To 8) provided with any of the display units 80.

[0081] (Display part 1) In FIG. 15 (a), a display unit 80a for notifying the operation status of the washing machine 900a is provided on the outer surface (top or side) of the washing machine 900a. The display unit 80a includes a main power display unit 81 that indicates that the main power switch is turned on (ON), and an operation course display unit 82 that indicates the operation status of the washing machine 900a (a washing process indicating that it is a washing process). Display portion 82a, rinsing display portion 82b indicating that it is a rinsing step, dehydration display portion 82c indicating that it is a degreasing step, dry display portion 82d indicating that it is a drying step, and power). And a start display unit 83 indicating that V is started or is paused! /.

[0082] Furthermore, an end time display unit 84a for displaying the time at which all of the selected driving courses are completed, and a moving display unit 85a (for example, LED) for notifying that the water tank 2 is tilting are provided. Yes.

Therefore, the user needs to know which process in the driving course is being executed and when all the processes are finished, and whether the tank 2 is tilting or has stopped tilting. Therefore, even if you can hear the sound of the motor while tilting, you can understand the reason and you will not be anxious.

Note that the moving display unit 85a (for example, LED) may be lit or blinking. The display unit 80a may be a common screen (for example, a liquid crystal panel). Further, the above is the power that the display unit 80a shows that is specialized for display. The present invention is not limited to this. For example, the driving course display unit 82 and the start display unit 83 are displayed together with the display function, and the user can drive. It may be equipped with an operation function that can input the course and ON / OFF. At this time, the whole or a part of the display unit 80a may be a touch panel.

[0084] (Display part 2)

In FIG. 15 (b), the washing machine 900b includes a display unit 80b. The display unit 80b replaces the moving display unit 85a of the display unit 80a while the aquarium 2 is tilted. “The tank inclination is being changed (indicated by a black square in the figure). This is provided with a character display portion 85b for displaying the letter J. Therefore, as with the washing machine 900a, the user The ability to squeeze out is with S.

[0085] (Display part 3) In FIG. 15 (c), the washing machine 900c includes a display unit 80c, and the display unit 80c is provided with a tank inclination display unit 85c instead of the moving display unit 85a of the display unit 80a. In the tank tilt indicator 85c, when the tank 2 is upright, the “vertical display point (for example, LED) 86c” lights, and when the tank 2 is at an intermediate tilt angle, the “middle display point 87c” Illuminates, and “large display point 88c” is illuminated when tank 2 is at the maximum tilt angle. Therefore, the user can know what posture the aquarium 2 is in.

[0086] Furthermore, while the tank 2 is tilting in a range close to being upright, the “vertical display point 86c” blinks, and the tank 2 is tilted in the middle tilt angle! “Middle display point 87c” flashes during the interval, and “Large display point 88c” flashes while tank 2 is tilting in the range close to the maximum tilt angle.

[0087] (Display part 4)

In FIG. 15 (d), the washing machine 900d has a display unit 80d, and the display unit 80d is replaced with three display units 8Oc and a tank inclination display unit 85c (consisting of three circular displays). A tank inclination display part 85d made of a line is provided. The tank inclination display section 85d includes a “vertical display line (for example, LED) 86d” arranged in a direction perpendicular to the front surface of the casing 1, and a “medium display line 87d” arranged at an intermediate angle with respect to this. And “large display line 88d” arranged at a maximum angle with respect to the vertical line display. In addition, since the point to display these is the same as the tank inclination display part 85c, description is abbreviate | omitted.

[0088] The number of straight lines constituting the tank inclination display portion 85d may be increased! /. Also, instead of individual LEDs that display a straight line, a liquid crystal panel is installed, and a straight line with a tilt angle that varies depending on the degree of tilt is displayed on the liquid crystal panel. You may display a fan that fluctuates. Furthermore, it is the same as the display unit 80a (the display unit 80b and the display unit 80d) that the display unit 80d can be provided with an operation function or the entire display unit 80d can be displayed on a common screen (for example, a liquid crystal panel). The same applies to part 80c).

[0089] [Embodiment 10; front hanging short length type]

FIGS. 16A and 16B schematically illustrate the washing machine according to the tenth embodiment of the present invention, schematically showing through the surface of the casing of the washing machine, FIG. 16A is a side view in the dehydration process, and FIG. It is a side view in a process. In FIG. 15, washing machine 400b is washing machine 400 (four screw rod type, In the suspension mechanism 60 in the form 4), the position of the aquarium flanges 3a, 3b formed on the front side of the casing 1 is set lower than the positions of the aquarium flanges 3c, 3d formed on the rear side, and the front side The length of the hanging screw rods 61a and 61b is shorter than the length of the hanging screw rods 61c and 61d on the rear side. The reference numerals of the respective members are the same as those of the washing machine 400.

In FIG. 16 (a), the front hanging screw rods 61a and 61b are pulled up, and the water tank 2 is standing upright. At this time, the top cover 10 and the outer lid 9) are largely inclined toward the front side (indicated by “Θ 2” in the figure) for the purpose of facilitating the work of taking out the clothes, but the front side Since the suspension screw rods 61a and 61b on the side are short, the upper ends thereof do not come into contact with the top cover 10 or the outer lid 9).

In FIG. 16 (b), the suspension screw rods 61a and 61b on the front side are pulled down, and the suspension screw rods 61c and 61 on the rear surface side are pulled up, so that the water tank 2 is inclined. At this time, the upper ends of the front-side suspension screw rods 61a and 61b are lowered to a low position, so that the top cover 10 (or the outer lid 9) is greatly inclined toward the front side (in the figure, Combined with the effect (indicated by “Θ 2”), clothes can be taken out easily.

[0091] FIG. 17 schematically shows a perspective view of the surface of the casing of the washing machine, and captures the effects of the washing machine according to Embodiment 10 of the present invention. Side views (b) and (c) are side views in the washing process. The washing machine 400c shown in FIGS. 16 (a) and 16 (b) and the washing machine 400d shown in FIG. 17 (c) are both compared to the washing machine 400d (see FIG. 15). The tank flanges 3a and 3b are formed at a higher position on the front side, and the lengths of the hanging screw rods 61a and 61b on the front side are longer.

[0092] In FIG. 17 (a), the hanging screw rod 61 is pulled down on the front side without interfering with the casing 1 and the top cover 10 or the outer lid 9), and pulled up on the rear side. The tank 2 is inclined.

In FIG. 17 (b), the suspension screw rod 61 is pulled up on the front side and pulled down on the rear side, so that the water tank 2 stands upright. At this time, the upper ends of the front-side hanging screw rods 61a and 61b are raised, and the top cover 10 is in contact with the outer lid 9). That is, in the washing machine 400c, when the inclination of the top cover 10 is increased (indicated by “Θ 2” in the figure), the portion of the top cover 10 that is raised upward to avoid the corresponding contact. Protrusion 1010a, 10 b is required.

In FIG. 17 (c), the washing machine 400d avoids the installation of the partial protrusions 10a and 10b in the washing machine 400c, and partially covers the top cover 10 and the upper surface of the outer lid 9). It is a smooth curved surface with no irregularities. At this time, the top cover 10 and the outer lid 9) are not in contact with the top ends of the front-side hanging screw rods 61a and 61b, but the top cover 10 and the outer lid 9) are inclined to the front side. Is small (indicated by “Θ 1” in the figure), so that the work of taking out clothes is obstructed by that amount.

Then, the washing machine 400b (see FIG. 15) has a top cover 10 or an outer lid 9) that is largely inclined toward the front side and has a smooth curved surface with no partial unevenness. It is a force component that facilitates the dispensing operation.

[0094] [Embodiment; tilt control in! -10]

Here, the tilt control in the first to tenth embodiments will be described using the washing machine 100 (the first embodiment) as an example. The control means for tilting the water tub 2 in the washing machine 100, the control method, the tilt effect, etc. are common to the washing machines 200-900.

[0095] (Control means)

FIG. 18 is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of the control means in washing machine 100 shown in FIG. In FIG. 18, the control unit 110 includes a CPU 130, an input interface 120, an output interface 140, a memory 150, and a clock control unit 160 (connected to the timer 170).

The input interface 120 has an operation course setting switch, a power switch, an operation switch, etc. (indicated by “··· 'SW” in the figure) and an inclination angle detector for inputting a predetermined signal to the CPU 130 via this. It is connected.

[0096] The output interface 140 includes a drying fan 15 through which a predetermined control signal is output from the CPU 130, a water tank motor 11 that rotates the washing tub 5 or the pulsator 4, and a rope winding means 32. A hoisting motor 39 or the like is connected.

Note that the safety SW indicates, for example, switches for confirming that a lid locking mechanism for locking the opening / closing of the outer lid 9 or a tilt locking mechanism for locking the tilt of the water tank 2 is operating. In addition, the memory 150 stores control conditions corresponding to each process of the driving course. It is remembered. Then, the CPU 130 issues a control command for determining the tilt angle described later and tilting to the determined tilt angle in accordance with each step of the driving course.

[0097] (Control method)

FIGS. 19 to 21 illustrate the control method of the control means in the washing machine 100 shown in FIG. 1. FIG. 19 is a schematic flowchart, and FIG. 20 is the time when the washing tub is tilted to execute the washing process. FIG. 21 is a time chart in the case where the washing process is executed with the washing tub upright. Hereinafter, first, the outline of the flow will be described with reference to FIG. 19, and then the details of the flow will be described with reference to FIG. 20 and FIG.

In FIG. 19, as described above, the washing machine 100 includes a washing process, a rinsing process (hereinafter, the washing process and the rinsing process may be collectively referred to as “washing process”), and dehydration. The process and the drying process can be performed, and the user can appropriately set an “operation course”. There are an “initial process” before the driving course is executed and a “final process” after the driving course is executed.

[0099] (i) In the initial process, when the driving course is set, the washing tub 5 is tilted.

(ii) If the set operation course includes a washing process, and there is a large amount of clothes put in, the `` upright washing '' is performed in which the washing tub 5 is washed in an upright state. In the case where the amount of clothes applied is small! /, In the case where the washing tub 5 is tilted, “inclined wash! /,” Which is washed is implemented.

(iii) If the set operation course includes a rinsing process, “upright rinsing” is performed in which the washing tub 5 related to the amount of clothes put in is washed upright.

[0100] (iv) When the set operation course includes a dehydration process, “upright dehydration” is performed in which the laundry tub 5 is dehydrated in an upright state regardless of the amount of clothes input.

(V) If the set operation course includes a drying process, and if the amount of clothes put in is large, `` upright drying '' is performed to dry the washing tub 5 in an upright state. In the case where the amount of clothes put in is small! / In the case where the laundry tub 5 is inclined, “inclination drying” is performed in which the clothes are dried.

[0101] (vi) And, in the final stage, when “upright take-out” is specified to take out clothes while the washing tub 5 is upright, the washing tub 5 is upright and “upright take-out” is designated. Is If not, incline the washing tub 5.

(vii) Therefore, when the power switch is turned off (turned off), the washing tub 5 is brought into an upright state, and the series of operations is completed.

[0102] Next, based on the time chart shown in FIG.

(S1: clothing input)

Waiting for power-on (ON) of the washing machine 100, the washing tub 5 tilts, for example, at an inclination angle of 20 °, and the lid locks of the inner lid 8 and the outer lid 9 are released after the tilting is finished. Then, since the inner lid 8 and the outer lid 9 can be freely opened and closed, the user can appropriately open the outer lid 9 (the inner lid 8 is also opened in conjunction) and put the clothes into the washing tub 5. At this time, since the washing tub 5 is inclined, it is easy to put in clothes as described above.

If the washing tub 5 of the washing machine 100 is turned off and the power is turned off! /, (OFF), the tilt of the washing tub 5 is mechanically locked during this time, and the inner lid 8 and outer lid Since 9 can be freely opened and closed, the user can appropriately open the outer lid 9 (and also open the inner lid 8 in conjunction) and put the clothes into the washing tub 5. At this time, since the washing tub 5 is inclined, it is easy to put in clothes as described above.

[0103] (S2: Operation start)

The user sets the driving course, turns on the operation switch (ON), the outer lid 9 or the inner lid 8) is closed, and the outer lid 9 or the inner lid 8) is locked so as not to be opened. . On the other hand, if the outer lid closing signal (or inner lid closing signal) is not input, it waits for the outer lid closing signal to be input, that is, waits for the outer lid 9 to close, 9 The inner lid 8) is locked.

Once the outer lid 9 or the inner lid 8) is locked, the lid or power switch can be turned off (turned off), and the lid can be turned on unless all the steps of the set operation course are completed. The lock is not released.

[0104] (S3: Load detection)

Next, the weight of the put-in garment is detected by a known method. That is, after starting the aquarium motor 11 and rotating the pulsator 4 by a certain amount, the aquarium motor 11 (pulsator 4) is stopped, and the weight of the clothes (“load” Detect a value that can be converted to “amount”. Such detection may be executed in an upright state with the force S being executed while the washing tub 5 is tilted and the washing tub 5 being tilted.

[0105] (S4: Determination of water injection volume and tilt angle)

Then, based on the detection result of the load amount, the amount of water injection and the inclination angle of the washing tank 5 in the washing step (same as the angle formed by the axial center with the vertical direction) are determined.

For example, when the tank 2 has a diameter of about 540 mm and a depth of about 540 mm, and the detected weight of the garment is about 6 kg or less, the inclination angle is set to 30 °, for example. Then, as will be described later, the washing performance is improved, and a sufficient amount of water penetrating into the clothing can be secured.

On the other hand, for example, when the detected weight of clothing exceeds about 6 kg, the inclination angle is set to 0 °. That is, the washing tub 5 is kept upright without tilting, ensuring a sufficient amount of water to penetrate into the clothes and preventing the water in the washing tub 5 from spilling during washing (hereinafter referred to as “upright washing method”). Called).

[0106] (S5: water injection and tilting)

Then, water injection and tilting are executed based on the determination. That is, the winding motor 39 is driven and the washing tub 5 (same as the water tub 2) is tilted. That is, the control means outputs a tilt command to the winding motor 39. When the tilt angle detector detects that the tilt angle Θ force is ¾0 ° (Θ = 20 °), or the tilt angle detector (position sensor is installed at a position with a tilt angle of 20 °). When the equivalent) is activated, the hoisting motor 39 is stopped. That is, the control means outputs a tilt stop command to the winding motor 39.

In addition, after the pouring is finished (after the water supply valve that has been opened once is closed), the tilting is started, and the water that starts washing during the tilting is poured in parallel with the tilting or after the tilting is finished. Water injection may be started.

[0107] (S6: Washing)

Washing is performed in a state in which the tilt lock mechanism is activated while the washing tub 5 is tilted at an inclination angle of 20 °. “Improvement of washing performance” by washing in the washing tub 5 will be explained separately. And when the end of the washing process is near, Open the tank and decelerate and stop the aquarium motor 11 while draining.

[0108] (S7: Tilt)

When draining is finished, the tilt lock mechanism is opened, and the washing tub 5 starts tilting to stand upright. That is, the winding motor 39 is driven again, and the washing tub 5 is tilted. In other words, the control means outputs directly to the winding motor 39.

When the tilt angle detector detects that the tilt angle Θ has reached 0 ° (Θ = 0 °), or the tilt angle detector installed at the position of the tilt angle 0 ° (corresponding to the upper limit sensor) When the motor is activated, the hoisting motor 39 is stopped and the washing tub 5 is made vertical (same as vertical) to the floor.

Note that the tilt lock mechanism may be opened before the drainage is finished, and tilting of the washing tub 5 may be started. Even if an operation course that does not include a rinsing process is set, the washing V and the washing tank 5 for a predetermined time are performed in the upright washing tub 5 before the process is completed. As a result, it is possible to reduce the unevenness of clothing at the end of the washing process, so that it is possible to reduce the rotation imbalance in the dehydration process immediately after that.

[0109] (S8: Rinse)

Rinsing is performed with the tilt lock mechanism activated (locked) while the washing tub 5 is upright. In FIG. 20, the water tank motor 11 is "stirred" while supplying water, and after the predetermined amount of water is supplied, the water supply is stopped, but the rotation continues, and eventually the water tank motor 11 is decelerated and stopped just before the end of rinsing. In addition, the drain valve is shown to open and drain !!, but the present invention is not limited to force and control. For example, water injection → rinsing → dehydration → water injection → rinsing may be performed with a dehydration process in which the washing tub 5 is rotated at high speed.

At this time, since the washing tub 5 stands upright, even if the washing tub 5 is rotated at a high speed, generation of vibration and noise can be kept low. In addition, “stirring rotation” refers to an operation in which the pulsator 4 is largely reversed and the clothes are replaced, and is slower than the rotation of the washing, for example, rotating at about 75 rpm, that is, washing !, at the end of the process! /, Even if the clothes are biased to one side of the washing tub 5! /, Even if the rinsing is performed with the washing tub 5 standing upright, the unevenness of the clothes is eliminated. Therefore, vibration and noise can be reduced in the subsequent dehydration process.

Before starting water injection for the rinsing process, rotate the aquarium motor 11 with the drain valve open (for example, rotate at a rotation speed of about 800 rpm) and select “Intermediate dehydration (washing tub 5 You can also carry out water injection, rinsing (pulsator 4 turning) and draining at the same time.

[0110] (S9: Dehydration)

Dehydration is performed by rotating the water tank motor 11 (washing tank 5) at a high speed while the washing tank 5 is upright. At this time, since the gravity component is not subjected to an unbalanced load (force acting obliquely with respect to the rotation axis), the rotation is stabilized. Therefore, even if the clothes in the washing tub 5 are biased, intense vibrations and noises may occur during high-speed rotation, and the washing tub 5 (water tub 2) may collide with the housing 1. What! /

[0111] (S10: Tilt)

When the dehydration is completed, the tilt lock mechanism is opened, and the tilt of the washing tub 5 is started and tilted. That is, when the hoisting motor 39 is driven again, for example, when the tilt angle detector detects that the tilt angle Θ force is ¾0 ° (Θ = 30 °), or is installed at a tilt angle of 30 °. When the tilt angle detector (corresponding to the upper limit sensor) is activated, the hoisting motor 39 is stopped and the tilt lock mechanism is activated (locked).

[0112] (S11: Drying)

Then, the heater 17 is energized (ON) and the drying fan 15 is activated (ON) to supply warm air to the water tank 2 via the air duct 16. During this time, since the washing tub 5 is inclined and rotated, an asymmetric force acts on the clothing, and the stirring of the clothing is promoted more efficiently than when the washing tub 5 is in an upright state, so that drying can be performed efficiently. Can also reduce unevenness in drying. However, if there is a large amount of clothes thrown in, the washing tub 5 may be dried while standing upright.

The water tank motor 11 and the drying fan 15 may be started in parallel with the tilting operation. Furthermore, in Fig. 20 (Fig. 21 is also the same), the water supply valve 14 is opened during the drying process to prevent static electricity by slightly supplying water to the rinsing tank 5 (directly spraying clothes), or switching not shown. In the duct where the hot wind circulates after the water supply direction is changed by the valve and the clothes are dried When returning to, water is sprayed toward the warm air in the duct. In other words, it is intended to promote condensation of moisture evaporated from clothing (contained in warm air). However, the water supply in the drying process may be stopped! /.

[0113] (S12: Tilt and take out)

After the drying process is finished, the tilt lock mechanism is opened, and the washing tub 5 is tilted again to make the tilt angle 20 °. Note that tilting of the washing tub 5 may be started immediately before the end of the drying process and in parallel with the drying.

Then, when the tilting is completed (when the tilt angle reaches 20 °), the lid lock is released on condition that the tilt lock mechanism is activated (locked) and the water tank motor 11 is stopped. Then, the user can open the outer lid 9 (the inner lid 8 is also opened in conjunction) and can easily take out the clothes from the washing tub 5. At this time, since the washing tub 5 is inclined, it is easy to reach the back of the washing tub 5 and the upper opening of the washing tub 5 faces the user's line of sight. Easy to see. Further, if the suspending wire 31 is wound up and the inclined washing tank 5 is lifted, the work of taking out the clothes becomes easier.

[0114] (S13: Ending upright)

When the user removes the clothes from the washing tub 5, the user turns off the power switch (OFF). Then, the lid lock mechanism is activated (ON), the outer lid 9 or the inner lid 8) cannot be opened, the tilt lock mechanism is once opened, and the washing tub 5 (same as the water tub 2) is tilted. And stand upright. Therefore, the tilt lock mechanism is actuated again (locked), the main power supply is turned off (OFF), and the series of processes is completed. In the present invention, the tilt lock mechanism is not limited, and the tilt of the water tank 2 may be directly locked, or the rotation of the winding motor 39 may be locked when the power is turned off.ヽ.

[0115] (S14: End of tilting)

When clothes are taken out of the washing tub 5 and the operation switch or power is turned off (turned off), the washing tub 5 of the washing machine 100 may be left tilted to finish. Such “tilt end” may be specified when setting the driving course in the initial process, or may be specified by turning on a predetermined tilt end specifying switch before turning off the power switch in the final process. . That is, tank 2 is locked so that it cannot tilt, Since the lid 8 and the outer lid 9 can be freely opened and closed (the lid lock is released), the user can open the outer lid 9 as appropriate regardless of the operation of the washing machine 100 (the inner lid 8 is also opened in conjunction with it). ), Clothes can be put into the washing tub 5.

Next, a control flow of “upright washing” will be described based on the time chart shown in FIG. In the upright washing, in response to a large amount of clothes, the washing tub 5 is made to stand upright, the washing process and the rinsing process are executed, and the washing tub 5 is inclined when the clothes are put in and out. That is, it facilitates the work such as taking out and reduces vibration during washing.

[0117] (S1 to S4) The process from when the washing machine 100 is turned on (ON) to when the water injection amount and the inclination angle are determined is the same as that for the inclination washing.

[0118] (S5) In the upright washing, the washing tub 5 (same as the water tub 2) is made upright after the water is poured or tilted into or after the water is poured. That is, the control means outputs a tilt command to the winding motor 39. Then, when the tilt angle detector detects that the tilt angle Θ has become 0 °, or the tilt angle detector (equivalent to a position sensor or horizontal sensor) installed at the position of the tilt angle 0 °. ) Is activated, the hoisting motor 39 is stopped. That is, the control means outputs a tilt stop command to the winding motor 39. In the case of upright washing, water is poured after the end of tilting so that water does not spill from tank 2, or the tilting ends before the amount of water nears full, or the amount of water poured becomes full. It is preferable to reduce the tilt speed (angular speed of the tilt angle) before approaching.

[0119] (S6 to S11) The tilt lock mechanism operates with the washing tub 5 standing upright, and in the locked state, the washing step (S6), the rinsing step (S8), the dehydrating step (S9), and the drying Step (S11) is executed. During this time, the washing tub 5 does not tilt. The rotation of the aquarium motor is the same as that for tilt washing.

[0120] (S12 to S13) After the drying step is completed, the washing tub 5 is tilted again and tilted. As a result, the user can easily reach the back of the washing tub 5 and can easily see the bottom of the washing tub 5, so that clothes can be easily taken out. Furthermore, if the suspension wire 31 is wound up and the inclined washing tub 5 is lifted, the work for taking out the clothes becomes easier. It should be noted that the user may be able to select the laundry tub 5 so that the laundry tub 5 is taken out upright in the case of very large clothing or heavy clothing.

[0121] (S14 to C15) The process after the clothes are taken out of the washing tub 5 is the same as that for the inclined washing.

The above description is an example of upright washing, and the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the washing tub 5 may be tilted in all or part of the drying step.

Yes

[0122] (Washing performance)

FIG. 22 is a correlation diagram for qualitatively explaining the relationship between the inclination angle of the washing tub and the washing performance in the washing machine 100 shown in FIG. The vertical axis shows the degree of dirt removal when washing upright as 100%, and the ratio of the degree of dirt removal when washing upside down is “cleaning performance”. That is, the larger the cleaning performance value, the more “dirt is removed”. In addition, the variation in dirt removal when washing upright is set to 100%, and the ratio of the variation in dirt removal when laundering to this is “wash! /, Unevenness”. That is, the smaller the unevenness value of washing, the more “dirt falls uniformly”. In FIG. 22, when the inclination angle is 15 ° to 20 °, both the cleaning performance and the cleaning unevenness are good values. The curve shown in FIG. 22 varies depending on the amount of clothes put into the washing tub (same as the load amount) and the shape and size of the washing tub.

[0123] (Tilt effect)

FIG. 23 is a schematic diagram illustrating the force acting on the washing tub in washing machine 100 shown in FIG. In FIG. 23, at rest, the surface of the washing water (water surface) is filled horizontally, but is inclined with respect to the rotation axis of the washing tub 5 because the washing tub 5 is inclined. When the washing tub 5 is rotated with the case 1 tilted toward the front side of the case 1 at an inclination angle Θ, the mass of the mass [m] on the inner peripheral surface of the washing tub 5 is perpendicular to the mass point. Gravity [m'g (g is gravitational acceleration)] in the direction and centrifugal force [F] in the radial direction of the washing tub 5 are applied. At this time, gravity [m'g] is the force in the direction of pressing the inner peripheral surface at the front side position (indicated by [+ m'g 'sin e] in the figure), Since it acts as a force in the direction away from the peripheral surface (indicated by [m'g 'sin e] in the figure), the rotating surface (water surface) descends on the front side and the rotating surface (water surface) on the rear side Ascending component. [0124] Therefore, when the washing tub 5 is rotated upright, the water surface forms a rotationally symmetric surface around the rotation axis, whereas when the washing tub 5 is rotated at an inclination, Since the water surface forms an asymmetric surface with respect to the rotation axis, the force acting on the washing water and clothes in the washing tub 5 is asymmetric with respect to the rotation axis, and the washing tub 5 is in an upright state. In comparison, the water flow and the movement of clothes become complicated, the cleaning power increases, and washing unevenness decreases (see Figure 22).

[0125] (Determination of tilt angle)

In the above description, the force is described as an example in which the inclination angle in the washing process is 30 °, and the inclination angle in the loading / unloading of clothes and in the drying process is 20 °. The present invention is not limited to this. In the washing step, a predetermined inclination angle can be determined in accordance with the amount of clothing (corresponding to the load amount) within a range of 10 ° to 45 °. In addition, it is a force to select an inclination angle within the range of 0 ° to 30 ° at the time of putting in and taking out clothing and the drying process.

In other words, as described above, the inclination angle that maximizes the cleaning performance varies depending on the size of the washing tub and the amount of clothes to be introduced. It is desirable to determine the washing process).

[0126] Further, it is desirable that the inclination angle (removal step) is determined in consideration of the height of the user, the size of the housing, and the like. Furthermore, each user may set an inclination angle (extraction process) that can be easily used. At this time, the opening formed in the top cover 10, that is, the outer lid 9, is formed when the washing tub 5 stands upright in order to respond to a request for putting in or taking out clothes while the washing tub 5 is upright. Since the clothes need to be large enough to be taken out, the upper lid 9 (corresponding to the inner lid 8) includes the upper opening of the washing tub 5 when projected upright (equivalent to the inner lid 8). (Covered). That is, the outer lid 9 becomes longer toward the rear surface.

[0127] When the tilt angles before and after tilting are made the same, for example, when any step is executed at the same tilt angle, for example, the process moves to the washing step after putting clothes on. Naturally, there is no tilting when moving to the take-out of clothes from the drying process. In other words, the time required for tilting (changing the tilt angle) becomes unnecessary, The time required for the driving course can be shortened, and the force S is applied to the tilting mechanism and the load S is reduced.

[0128] Further, the inclination angle in the washing step or the drying step is not limited to 1; Select one or two or more tilt angles within the range of ~ 45 ° or 0 ° -30 °, and may vary stepwise, or the tilt angle continuously varies within the range, That is, you can go back and forth (called “tilt” in the present invention) one or more times between the minimum inclination angle (including upright) and the maximum inclination angle.

At this time, more complicated water flow is generated and the clothes are agitated in washing, and the washing performance is improved, and further clothes are agitated in drying, so warm air is also included inside the clothes lump. Can improve drying speed.

[0129] (Upright washing method)

The force S and upright washing methods already described are summarized below (see Figure 16). The upright washing method is intended to prevent the washing water from overflowing or becoming unwashable when a large amount of clothing is applied. That is, when the washing tub 5 stands upright, the amount of washing water that can be supplied to this (not overflowing during washing) is greater than when the washing tub 5 is inclined. Therefore, by enabling an upright washing method, a large amount of clothes can be washed without increasing the washing tub 5 (same as the casing 1). In addition, although it dries in the upright washing tub 5, the washing tub 5 may be inclined and dried. At this time, the drying acceleration effect described above is exhibited.

[0130] [Embodiment 11; Noise countermeasures]

FIG. 24 is an internal side view showing a state where the water tank of the washing machine according to the embodiment of the present invention is upright, and FIG. 25 is an internal side view showing a state where the water tank of the washing machine according to the embodiment of the present invention is inclined. It is. This washing machine shall be capable of performing washing, rinsing, dewatering and drying processes. The washing process and the rinsing process may be collectively referred to as a “washing process”. Hereinafter, the washing machine according to Embodiment 11 of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. 24 and 25. FIG.

[0131] (Housing)

The casing 1001 has a rectangular cross section (same as a substantially rectangular parallelepiped) and has a top cover 1 on the top surface. 010 is installed. The top cover 1010 has an opening on the top surface, which serves as an inlet for taking in and out the laundry. A transparent outer lid 1009 is installed at the insertion port so as to be freely opened and closed.

[0132] (Aquarium)

A water tank 1002 is stored in the housing 1001. The water tank 1002 has a cylindrical shape with the top surface opened and the bottom surface closed, and is fixed to the tilting table 1020. A water tank cover 1007 having an opening on the inside is installed on the upper end surface of the water tank 1002. In addition, an inner lid 1008 that closes or opens the opening of the water tank cover 1007 is tiltably installed in the water tank cover 1007. In this example, an inner lid 1008 is disposed below the outer lid 1009.

[0133] The opening / closing operation of the outer lid 1009 is transmitted to the inner lid 1008. When the outer lid 1009 is opened, the inner lid 1008 is also opened, and when the outer lid 1009 is closed, the inner lid 1008 is also closed.

In addition, a lid lock mechanism (not shown) is installed to lock the outer lid 1009 and the inner lid 1008) so that they cannot be opened. The lid lock mechanism may be mechanically performed using an electromagnetic pin that moves forward and backward, or when the outer lid 1009 or the inner lid 1008) is opened and closed by an electric lid opening / closing drive mechanism. The lid opening / closing drive mechanism may not be electrically driven.

[0134] (Water tank support means)

The water tank support means is provided in the casing 1001 and supports the water tank 1002 so as to be tiltable. The water tank support means here is tilted to four suspension rods 1003 whose one ends are fixed to the upper four corners of the casing 1001, a horizontal base 1019 fixed to the lower end portion of the suspension rod 1003, and the suspension rod 1003. And a tilting table 1020 attached thereto. A tilting fulcrum 1020a for rotatably supporting the tilting table 1020 is provided near the front surface of the horizontal table 1019. For the sake of convenience, the rotation of the tilting table 1020 is referred to as “tilting” in order to distinguish it from the rotation of the washing and dewatering tank 1005.

[0135] (Tilt drive source)

The water tank 1002 can be tilted as shown in FIG. 25 by various methods. For example, using a pinion and a rack, the tilting table 1020 can be rotated around the tilting fulcrum 1020a. Also, the rear suspension rod 10 that supports the aquarium 1002 The water tank 1002 can be tilted by moving 03 vertically. In either case, a tilting motor 1021 (not shown in FIGS. 24 and 25, not shown in FIG. 26) is provided as the power source.

[0136] (Laundry dewatering tank)

The laundry dewatering tank 1005 is used for washing, rinsing, dewatering and drying of the inputted laundry, and is rotatably disposed in the water tank 1002. Further, since the water tank 1002 is fixed to the tilting table 1 020 and tilts together with the tilting table 1020, the washing / dehydrating tank 1005 also tilts together with the water tank 1002. The laundry dewatering tank 1005 has a cylindrical shape with the top surface opened and the bottom surface closed, and a plurality of water passage holes for dewatering are formed on the side surface.

A balancer 1006 is installed around the top opening of the laundry dewatering tank 1005. The range force enclosed by the inner circumference of the balancer 1006 is used as an opening for loading and unloading laundry. Since the water tank 1002 in which the washing and dewatering tank 1005 is installed is provided with a water tank cover 1007, the upper end surface of the balancer 1006 is covered with the water tank cover 1007.

[0137] (Pulsator)

A pulsator 1004 for agitating the thrown-in laundry and poured water (hereinafter referred to as “washing water”) is rotatably disposed at the bottom of the laundry dewatering tank 1005. The pulsator 1004 is preferably provided with a blade for improving the stirring effect. In the following, for the sake of convenience, the rotation of the pulsator 1004 is referred to as “turning” in order to distinguish it from the rotation of the washing and dewatering tank 1005.

[0138] (Rotation drive source)

On the bottom surface of the water tank 1002 and on the bottom surface of the tilting table 1020, a rotation motor 1011 as a rotational drive source for rotationally driving the pulsator 1004 and the washing and dewatering tank 1005 is installed. In addition, rotation distribution means for distributing the rotation of the rotation motor 1011 to the pulsator 1004 or the washing and dewatering tub 1005, pulsator side rotation transmission means for transmitting rotation (turning) from the common rotation distribution means to the pulsator 1004, and The force S provided with the tank side rotation transmitting means for transmitting the rotation from the common rotation distributing means to the washing / dehydrating tank 1005, these means are not particularly shown. The rotation motor 1011 and the rotation distribution means are the control means described later. According to the command, predetermined rotation / stop and sorting are performed in the washing process, dewatering process and drying process, respectively.

[0139] (Water supply / drainage mechanism)

A water supply mechanism 1013 for supplying water into the washing and dewatering tank 1005 is installed on the top surface of the water tank 1002. The water supply mechanism 1013 has a water supply path 1012, one end of which is led out of the housing 1001 and connected to an external water supply, and a water supply valve 1014 installed in the middle of the water supply path 1012 to close and close the water flow. is doing.

On the other hand, a drain port (not shown) is formed on the bottom surface of the water tank 1002, and a drain hose 1018 is connected to the drain port. The drain port or drain hose 1018 is provided with a drain valve (not shown) for opening and closing the water flow. When the water supply valve 1014 and the drain valve are closed and the inner lid 1008 is closed, the water tank 1002 is sealed.

[0140] (Drying means)

The drying means is for drying the laundry with warm air, and includes a blower fan 1015 for supplying warm air into the laundry dewatering tub 1005 and a heater 1017 for heating air during the drying process. The blower fan 1015 is installed on the lower surface of the horizontal base 1019, and a heater 1017 is installed at the casing outlet of the blower fan 1015. A blower duct 1016 is provided that communicates with the casing discharge port, rises along the outer wall of the water tank 1002, and opens at the upper opening edge of the water tank 1002. Further, since the air duct 1016 is flexible in the vicinity of the communicating portion with the casing outlet / outlet, the air duct 1016 tilts as the water tank 1002 tilts. When the force and drying means are installed on the tilting table 1020, the air duct 1016 is not required to be flexible.

The warm air heated by the heater 1017 is used to dry the laundry in the laundry dewatering tub 1005 and then discharged to an exhaust duct (not shown). Then, after “water-cooled dehumidification” is performed to sprinkle the discharged moisture-containing hot air, it is sent to the air duct 1016 and circulated again.

[0141] (Control means)

FIG. 26 is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of the control means for controlling the operation of the washing machine shown in FIG. This washing machine control means 1110 includes a CPU 1130 and an input interface 112. 0, output interface 1140, memory 1150, clock control unit 1160 (connected to timer 1170), etc. ! / Various operation switches 103 such as an operation course setting switch and a power switch for inputting a predetermined signal to the CPU 1130 through this are connected to the input interface 1120;! To 1035, an inclination angle detector 1036 of the water tank 1002, etc. .

On the other hand, to the output interface 1140, a blower fan 1015 to which a predetermined control signal is output from the CPU 1130, a heater 1017, a rotation motor 1011, a tilting motor 1021, a supply / drain valve, various lock mechanisms, and the like are connected. Also connected to the output interface 1140 is a water tank status notification device 1022 that notifies the user that the angle of the water tank 1002 is changing when the angle of the water tank 100 2 is changed, and a display device that displays the operating state of the washing machine. ing.

[0142] The safety SW refers to, for example, a switch for confirming that a lid locking mechanism for locking the opening / closing of the outer lid 1009 or a tilting locking mechanism for locking the tilting of the tilting plate 1020 is operating. ing.

The memory 1150 stores control conditions corresponding to each process of the driving course. Then, the CPU 1130 issues a control command for determining the tilt angle and tilting to the determined tilt angle in accordance with each step of the driving course.

[0143] (Operation section and operation status display section)

On the front upper surface of the casing 1001, the operation switches 1031 to 1035, a display device (not shown) indicating the operation state of the washing machine, and the water tank 1002 are changing the angle when the angle of the water tank 1002 is changed. An operation unit and an operation state display unit 1023 including a water tank state notification device 1022 for notifying the user of the fact are provided. In addition, the aquarium status notification device 1022 can use a voice notification device in addition to a display device that displays information such as a liquid crystal panel or LED.

[0144] (Control of washing machine)

27 and 28 illustrate an example of the control method of the control means 1110. FIG. 27 shows the standard operation mode and the low noise operation mode when there is a lot of laundry! Fig. 28 is a comparative explanatory diagram of the operation control method between the standard operation mode and the low noise operation mode when there is little laundry (for example, 6 kg or less). is there.

The terms “Large”, “Small”, “High Speed”, “Medium Speed”, “Low Speed”, etc. in FIG. 27 and FIG. 28 indicate relative degrees for comparison. In some cases, it may be different from the speed of implementation. In addition, the low noise operation mode may be referred to as a night mode.

[0145] A. Operation control when there is a lot of laundry

A- 1. Standard operation mode

In the standard operation mode when there is a lot of laundry, the inclination of the water tank 1002, the rotation of the pulsator 1004, the rotation of the laundry dewatering tank 1005, and the rotation of the blower fan 1015 are controlled by a control flow as shown by the solid line in FIG. Be controlled.

First, the laundry (clothing) is thrown into the washing and dewatering tank 1005 in the water tank 1002 after being tilted and stopped. Subsequently, water is supplied into the water tank 1002 after the water tank 1002 is returned to the upright state or while the water tank 1002 is returned to the upright state.

Then, the washing, rinsing, and dehydration steps are performed with the water tank 1002 in an upright state. In the washing and rinsing process, the pulsator 1004 is rotated at a low speed. In the dehydration process, the washing and dewatering tank 1005 is rotated at high speed.

Subsequently, after the water tank 1002 is inclined halfway during the maximum inclination (for example, an inclination state of 15 to 20 degrees from an upright state), the drying process is executed. In the drying process, the pulsator 1004 is rotated at a low speed and the blower fan 1015 is rotated at a high speed. By doing this in a state where the water tank 1002 (including the washing and dewatering tank 1005) is inclined, the stirring of the laundry is promoted and the drying efficiency is improved.

Then, after the drying process is completed, the water tank 1002 is tilted to the maximum tilt angle. Finally, the laundry is taken out from the washing and dewatering tank 1005 in the inclined water tank 1002. By doing so, washing with particularly improved drying efficiency is possible.

[0146] A— 2. Low noise operation mode

In the low noise operation mode when there is a lot of laundry, the tilt of the water tank 1002, the rotation of the pulsator 1004, the rotation of the washing and dewatering tank 1005, and the rotation of the blower fan 1015 are controlled as indicated by the solid line and the broken line in FIG. Controlled by flow.

First, tilt and stop, laundry (clothing) in the washing and dewatering tank 1005 in the water tank 1002 It is thrown. Subsequently, water is supplied into the water tank 1002 after the water tank 1002 is returned to the upright state or while the water tank 1002 is returned to the upright state.

Then, the washing, rinsing, and dehydration steps are performed with the water tank 1002 in an upright state. In the washing and rinsing process, the pulsator 1004 is rotated at a lower speed than the low speed. In the dehydration process, the laundry dewatering tank 1005 is rotated at a medium speed.

Subsequently, the drying process is performed while the water tank 1002 is maintained in an upright state. In the drying process, the pulsator 1004 is rotated at a slower speed than the low speed, and the blower fan 1015 is rotated at the low speed. Power is better when the drying process is performed with the water tank 1002 (including the washing and dewatering tank 1005) tilted. In the low noise operation mode, the number of operations of the tilt motor 1021 is reduced rather than the drying efficiency. The emphasis is on reducing the number of noise occurrences.

Then, after the drying process is completed, the water tank 1002 is tilted to the maximum tilt angle.

Finally, the laundry is taken out from the washing and dewatering tank 1005 in the inclined water tank 1002. As described above, in the low noise operation mode, the number of inclinations of the water tank 1002 is reduced, and the rotation speed of the rotating motor 1011 and the blower fan 1015 for rotating the pulsator 1004 and the washing / dehydrating tank 1005 are reduced as compared with the standard operation mode. This reduces the noise generated during washing.

B. Operation control when there is little laundry

B- 1. Standard operation mode

In the standard operation mode when there is little laundry, the inclination of the water tank 1002, the rotation of the pulsator 1004, the rotation of the laundry dewatering tank 1005, and the rotation of the blower fan 1015 are, for example, a control flow as shown by the solid line in FIG. Controlled by

First, the laundry (clothing) is thrown into the washing and dewatering tank 1005 in the water tank 1002 after being tilted and stopped.

Subsequently, the water tank 1002 is supplied with water after or while returning the inclination of the water tank 1002 to the middle (for example, a state of 15 to 20 degrees from the upright state).

Then, the washing process is executed with the inclination of the water tank 1002 maintained. In this washing process, the pulsator 1004 is rotated at a low speed. Subsequently, after the water tank 1002 is returned to the upright state, the rinsing and dewatering steps are executed. In the rinsing process, the pulsator 1004 is rotated at a low speed. In the dehydration process, the laundry dewatering tank 1005 is rotated at high speed.

After the dehydration process is completed, the water tank 1002 is inclined again halfway up to the maximum inclination, and the drying process is performed. In the drying process, the pulsator 1004 is rotated at a low speed, and the blower fan 1015 is rotated at a high speed. By doing this in a state where the water tank 1002 (including the washing and dewatering tank 1005) is inclined, stirring of the laundry is promoted and drying efficiency is improved.

Then, after the drying process is completed, the water tank 1002 is tilted to the maximum tilt angle. Finally, the laundry is taken out from the washing and dewatering tank 1005 in the inclined water tank 1002. By doing so, washing with improved washing and drying efficiency is possible. B— 2. Low noise operation mode

In the low noise operation mode when there is little laundry, the tilt of the water tank 1002, the rotation of the pulsator 1004, the rotation of the laundry dewatering tank 1005, and the rotation of the blower fan 1015 are, for example, as shown by the solid and broken lines in FIG. Controlled by control flow.

First, the laundry (clothing) is thrown into the washing and dewatering tank 1005 in the water tank 1002 after being tilted and stopped. Subsequently, water is supplied into the water tank 1002 after returning the water tank 1002 to the upright state or while returning it.

Then, the washing, rinsing, and dehydration steps are performed with the water tank 1002 in an upright state. At this time, in the washing and rinsing process, the pulsator 1004 is rotated at a speed lower than the low speed. In the dehydration process, the laundry dewatering tank 1005 is rotated at a medium speed.

Subsequently, the drying process is performed while the water tank 1002 is maintained in an upright state. In the drying process, the pulsator 1004 is rotated at a slower speed than the low speed, and the blower fan 1015 is rotated at the low speed. Power is better when the drying process is performed with the water tank 1002 (including the washing and dewatering tank 1005) tilted. In the low noise operation mode, noise is generated by reducing the number of operations of the tilting motor 1021 rather than the drying efficiency. The emphasis is on reducing the number of times.

Finally, the laundry is taken out from the washing and dewatering tank 1005 in the inclined water tank 1002 . As described above, in the low noise operation mode, the number of inclinations of the water tank 1002 is reduced, and the rotation speed of the rotating motor 1011 and the blower fan 1015 for rotating the pulsator 1004 and the washing / dehydrating tank 1005 are reduced as compared with the standard operation mode. This reduces the noise generated during washing.

[0149] In the low noise operation mode, the rotational speeds of the rotation motor 1011 and the blower fan 1015 are set lower than in the standard operation mode. Therefore, the washing time in the low noise operation mode is, for example, the mode-specific operation in FIG. As shown in the time chart, it is preferable that the number of washing, rinsing, dehydration and drying steps is larger than that in the standard operation mode.

Also, in the low noise operation mode, the tilt speed of the water tank 1002 is made slower than the standard operation mode, that is, for example, by setting the rotation speed of the tilting motor 1021 to the lowest speed at which the water tank 1002 can tilt. Furthermore, noise can be reduced.

In any mode, when the angle of the aquarium 1002 is changed, the aquarium status notification device 1022 that notifies the user that the angle of the aquarium 1002 is being changed is activated, so that the user operates the tilt motor 1021 accordingly. You can recognize what is inside.

[0150] Further, a DC motor is used for the rotation motor 1011, the blower fan 1015, and the tilting motor 1021, and the DC power supplied to these motors is controlled by, for example, pulse width modulation (PWM) control. By doing so, the output of each motor can be adjusted.

Industrial applicability

[0151] Since the present invention has the above-described configuration, the tilting mechanism of the washing tub is simple, good cleaning performance, quiet dehydration, ease of use such as easy clothes removal, and cleanliness of the surroundings. It can be used widely as a washing machine for various households and businesses.

Claims

The scope of the claims

[1] a housing;

A water tank for storing the washing tub;

A support member for supporting the water tank on the housing;

Changing means for changing the length of the support member between the water tank and the housing;

Have

The changing means changes the length of the support member according to the process from when the clothes are put into the washing tub until the washed or dehydrated clothes are taken out, so that the inclination angle of the water tub is changed. A washing machine characterized by being changed.

[2] The support member is three or more suspension members that suspend the water tank,

2. The washing machine according to claim 1, wherein a suspension length changing member for changing a suspension length of the suspension member is installed on at least one of the suspension members.

[3] It has a horizontal sensor for detecting the posture where the casing is placed!

3. The washing machine according to claim 1, wherein an inclination angle of the water tub is changed based on a detection result of the horizontal sensor so that a rotation axis of the washing tub becomes vertical.

[4] At least one of the suspension members is a suspension rope,

4. The washing machine according to claim 2, wherein the suspension length changing means is a cable body winding means for winding and unwinding the suspension cable body.

[5] At least one force of the suspension member is composed of a suspension rod body coupled to the water tank and a suspension rope body coupled to the suspension rod body,

The suspension length changing means is a cable body winding means for winding and unwinding the suspension cable body,

The washing machine according to any one of claims 2 to 4, wherein the suspension rod body is guided by a suspension rod guide portion installed in the housing so that the suspension rod can be moved up and down and cannot be dropped off.

[6] At least one force of the suspension member is connected to the water tank, and a screw is partly or entirely attached. In the formed screw rod body,

The suspension length changing means is a screw rotating means for screwing and rotating the screw formed on the screw rod body,

The washing machine according to any one of claims 2 to 4, wherein the screw rod body moves up and down when the screw rotating means rotates a screw formed on the screw rod body.

[7] The installation position of the suspension length changing means installed near the front surface of the housing is lower than the installation position of the suspension length changing means installed near the rear surface of the housing. The washing machine according to any one of claims 2 to 6.

[8] The length of the suspension member installed near the front surface of the housing is shorter than the length of the suspension member installed near the rear surface of the housing. A washing machine with crab.

[9] A support bar is provided together with or in place of the suspension member,

The upper end of the support bar is installed in a support bar installation part formed in the housing, and when the water tank is lowered, the water tank is supported directly or via a cushioning material at the lower end of the support bar. The washing machine according to any one of claims 2 to 8, wherein:

[10] The buffer according to any one of claims 2 to 9, wherein a buffer material is installed on an inner surface of the housing, and a side surface of the water tank abuts on the buffer material in a state where the water tank is inclined. Washing machine.

[11] The casing is a substantially rectangular parallelepiped,

The washing machine according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein an outer shell at a lower portion of the water tank is formed in a substantially truncated cone shape.

[12] A stretchable elastic annular body is installed on the upper edge of the water tank,

An opening is formed in all or part of the upper surface of the housing,

An outer lid for opening and closing the opening is installed;

In a state where the outer lid closes the opening and the water tank is inclined or raised, the entire circumference of the elastic annular body is pinched by the outer lid and the upper edge of the water tank. A washing machine according to any one of claims 11 to 11, wherein

[13] having a drying process of clothes put in the washing tub; 13. The washing machine according to claim 12, wherein in the drying step, the entire circumference of the elastic annular body is clamped by the outer lid and an upper edge of the water tank.

[14] The washing machine according to any one of [1] to [13], wherein the casing is provided with a display portion V indicating that the inclination angle of the water tank is being changed.

[15] An opening is formed in all or part of the upper surface of the housing,

A transparent outer lid that opens and closes the opening is installed,

The washing machine according to any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein the inside of the washing tub is visible with the outer lid closing the opening.

[16] A return mechanism for returning the water tank in a direction substantially opposite to a direction in which the suspension member is suspended, the return mechanism including a pull member having one end connected to the water tank, and the other of the pull member And a pulling length changing means installed on the casing, and the pulling length of the pulling member is changed to the pulling length corresponding to the change of the hanging length of the hanging member. The washing machine according to any one of claims 2 to 15, wherein the washing machine is changed by a height changing means.

[17] The casing is provided with a pulling direction changing means for changing a return direction of the pulling member to a direction of the suspension length changing means,

17. The washing machine according to claim 16, wherein instead of the pulling length changing means, the other end of the pulling member is connected to the hanging length changing means.

[18] a housing;

A water tank equipped with a washing and dewatering tank; and a water tank support means provided in the housing for supporting the water tank in a tiltable manner;

A rotational drive source for rotating the washing and dewatering tank;

An inclination drive source that acts on the water tank support means and changes an angle of the water tank with respect to a vertical direction;

A washing machine comprising a water tank state notification device for notifying a user that the angle of the water tank is being changed when the angle of the water tank is changed.

[19] The washing machine according to claim 18, wherein the water tank state notification device is a display device which notifies by display.

[20] The washing machine according to claim 18, wherein the water tank state notification device is a voice generation device that notifies by voice.

[21] With the standard operation mode that does not consider noise reduction and the low noise operation mode that considers noise reduction,

21. In the low noise operation mode, the number of movements between the upright state and the inclined state of the water tank is smaller than that in the standard operation mode. A washing machine according to any of the above.

[22] In what has a dehydration step of dehydrating the laundry, and a drying step of stirring and drying the laundry while sending air to the laundry dewatering tank,

The water tank is shifted from an upright state to an inclined state in the standard operation mode and maintained in an upright state in the low noise operation mode during the transition from the dehydration step to the drying step. 21. The washing machine according to 21.

[23] With the standard operation mode that does not consider noise reduction and the low noise operation mode that considers noise reduction,

The washing machine according to any one of claims 18 to 22, wherein, in the low noise operation mode, an inclination speed of the water tank is made slower than that in the standard operation mode.

[24] A rotation motor as the rotation drive source,

The washing machine according to any one of claims 18 to 23, wherein, in the low noise operation mode, a rotation speed of the rotation motor is set slower than the standard operation mode.

[25] A blower fan that sends air to the washing and dewatering tub,

The washing machine according to any one of claims 18 to 24, wherein in the low noise operation mode, the rotation speed of the blower fan is set slower than in the standard operation mode.

Yes