WO2014016879A1 - Washing and drying machine - Google Patents

Abstract

This washing and drying machine comprises: a water tank (340); a rotary drum (330); a first water-drainage pathway; a water-drainage valve (620); a heat exchanger (420); a water-sprinkling mechanism that cleans the heat exchanger (420); a second water-drainage pathway; and a control unit. In a water-drainage starting step, in which the water-drainage valve (620) is opened, and a water-drainage ending step, in which the water-drainage valve (620) is closed, at the time of draining water in a washing step and/or a rinsing step, the control unit executes control such that the sprinkling of water from the water-sprinkling mechanism is ended at least before the water-drainage ending step. Thus, the water-drainage pathways are prevented from getting clogged with foreign matters included in cleaning water that cleaned the heat exchanger (420).

Description

Washing and drying machine

The present invention relates to a washer / dryer.

In recent years, washing and drying machines having a drying function of drying clothes as well as a washing function of washing clothes are widely used.

The washing and drying machine circulates high-temperature and dry air (hereinafter referred to as "dry air") in a housing to dry clothes. Therefore, the washing and drying machine is provided with a heat exchanger which exchanges heat with air circulating in the housing to create dry air. Then, the dry air is introduced into the washing tub and collides with the clothes in the washing tub. Thus, the moisture contained in the clothes is taken away by the dry air. Thereafter, the air which has taken moisture from the clothes is returned to the heat exchanger again and circulated by repeating the above operation.

At this time, dust such as lint and hair separated from clothes may be suspended and mixed in the dry air returned to the heat exchanger due to contact with the clothes.

Therefore, the washing and drying machine is usually provided with a filter for removing dust contained in the air directed to the heat exchanger. At this time, although the filter removes a large amount of dust, some of the dust passes through the filter and adheres to the heat exchanger. As a result, the dust attached to the heat exchanger lowers the heat exchange efficiency of the heat exchanger.

Then, in order to prevent the fall of the heat exchange efficiency of a heat exchanger, the technique of watering a heat exchanger and removing dust is proposed (for example, refer patent document 1). Thus, dust attached to the heat exchanger is removed to prevent an excessive decrease in heat exchange efficiency.

Hereinafter, cleaning of the heat exchanger of the conventional washing and drying machine disclosed in Patent Document 1 will be described with reference to FIG.

FIG. 18 is a view for explaining design patterns of various operation courses in the conventional washing and drying machine. As shown in FIG. 18, the conventional washing / drying machine carried out the cleaning of the heat exchanger at the end of the operation of the washing operation and adhered to the heat exchanger in the design pattern of any of the operation courses A to D. Dust is removed and drained through the drainage path. For example, in the case of pattern A, the heat exchanger is cleaned at the end of the washing, rinsing, dewatering and drying operations.

However, in the conventional washing and drying machine, foreign substances such as lint and detergent components contained in washing water and washing water for washing the heat exchanger may remain in the drainage path. Therefore, the foreign matter remaining in the drainage path accumulates, thereby blocking the drainage path and causing problems such as drainage failure, drying failure, and generation of offensive odor.

JP 2005-224491 A

In order to solve the above problems, a washing / drying machine according to the present invention comprises a water tank supported in a housing, a rotating drum disposed in the water tank and containing clothes, and discharging water in the water tank to the outside of the housing Heat exchanger for heat exchange with air passing through the rotating drum, drying the clothes, watering the heat exchanger, and heat exchanger It has a water sprinkling mechanism including a water sprinkling portion to be cleaned, a second drainage path for flowing water discharged from the water sprinkling mechanism upstream of a drainage valve of the rotary drum or the first drainage path, and a control unit. Then, at least before the drainage end step in the drainage start step of opening the drainage valve and the drainage end step of closing the drainage valve after the drainage start step, at the time of drainage of the washing step or the rinsing step. Control to end the watering from the watering mechanism.

Thus, it is possible to drain the washing water, which has washed the heat exchanger together with the washing water, to the outside of the machine, and to reduce the amount of foreign matter such as lint remaining in the first drainage path and the second drainage path. As a result, it is possible to prevent the occurrence of malodor, drainage failure due to clogging of foreign matter in the first drainage path and the second drainage path, and drying failure to maintain drying performance.

FIG. 1 is a schematic perspective view of a washing and drying machine according to a first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a schematic block diagram for explaining the operation of the washing and drying machine shown in FIG. FIG. 3 is a schematic cross-sectional view for explaining the internal configuration of the washing and drying machine shown in FIG. FIG. 4 is a schematic view of a heat pump apparatus of the washing and drying machine shown in FIG. FIG. 5 is a schematic block diagram for explaining a water supply mechanism of the washing and drying machine shown in FIG. FIG. 6 is a schematic perspective view illustrating the heat exchange unit of the washing and drying machine shown in FIG. FIG. 7 is a schematic bottom view illustrating the heat exchange unit of the washing and drying machine shown in FIG. FIG. 8 is a schematic perspective view illustrating the heat exchange unit of the washing and drying machine shown in FIG. FIG. 9 is a schematic plan view illustrating the heat exchange unit of the washing and drying machine shown in FIG. FIG. 10 is a flow chart for explaining the control operation in the washing step of the washing and drying machine in the embodiment. FIG. 11 is a schematic block diagram for explaining the control operation in the washing step of the washer / dryer in the same embodiment. FIG. 12 is a diagram showing an example of an output from an optical sensor of the washing and drying machine shown in FIG. FIG. 13 is a flow chart for explaining the control operation in the rinsing step of the washing and drying machine shown in FIG. FIG. 14 is a schematic timing chart for explaining the opening and closing timings of the first water supply valve and the drain valve of the washing and drying machine shown in FIG. FIG. 15A is a view for explaining design patterns of various operation courses of the washing and drying machine in the embodiment. FIG. 15B is a view for explaining another design pattern of various operation courses of the washer / dryer in the embodiment. FIG. 16 is a diagram for explaining a design pattern of the first operation course of the washing and drying machine in the embodiment. FIG. 17 is a diagram for explaining the operating time in the first to third design patterns shown in FIG. FIG. 18 is a diagram for explaining design patterns of various operation courses in the conventional washing machine.

Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. The present invention is not limited by the present embodiment.

Embodiment 1
Hereinafter, the washing and drying machine according to the first embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG.

FIG. 1 is a schematic perspective view of a washing and drying machine according to a first embodiment of the present invention. The washing and drying machine has not only a washing function of washing clothes but also a drying function of circulating dry air to dry clothes.

As shown in FIG. 1, the washing and drying machine 100 of the present embodiment is provided between at least the front wall 111, the rear wall 112 opposite to the front wall 111, and the front wall 111 and the rear wall 112. The housing 110 includes the left wall 113, the right wall 114 opposite to the left wall 113, and the top wall 115 and the like. The top wall 115 is provided to close a region surrounded by the upper edges of the front wall 111, the rear wall 112, the left wall 113, and the right wall 114.

The front wall 111 is formed with an insertion port 116 for the user to store clothes in the housing 110. Furthermore, the front wall 111 is provided with a door 120 which is pivoted between the open position and the closed position by the user.

Then, the user opens the insertion port 116 by placing the door 120 in the open position as shown in FIG. Thereafter, by moving the door 120 to the closed position and closing the insertion port 116, the clothes contained in the housing 110 can be subjected to treatments such as washing, dehydration, and drying.

In addition, a console 201 is provided as a part of the front wall 111, and when the user operates the console 201, various driving courses are set.

Hereinafter, in the washing and drying machine 100 according to the present embodiment, the operation based on the operation course input by the console 201 will be described using FIG. 2 with reference to FIG.

FIG. 2 is a schematic block diagram for explaining the operation of the washing and drying machine shown in FIG. The dotted arrows shown in FIG. 2 indicate the flow of water in the washing and drying machine 100. Moreover, the arrow of a dashed-dotted line has shown the flow of the drying air in the washing-drying machine 100. FIG.

As shown in FIG. 2, the washing and drying machine 100 includes a console 201 provided on the front wall 111 of the housing 110, a control unit 200 provided inside the housing 110, a clothes processing mechanism 300, and drying. The system further includes a water supply mechanism 500 having a treatment mechanism 400, a valve unit and a water spray mechanism 700, and a drainage mechanism 600. Then, based on the course information output from the console 201, the washer / dryer 100 performs a washing step, a rinsing step, a dewatering step, and / or a drying step. In the present embodiment, the washing step, the rinsing step, the dewatering step and / or the drying step are exemplified as the treatment mode.

At this time, the control unit 200 controls the clothes processing mechanism 300, the drying processing mechanism 400, the water supply mechanism 500, the drainage mechanism 600, and the like according to an output signal (course information) from the console 201.

The clothes processing mechanism 300 includes a motor 310 and a washing tub 320 connected to the motor 310. Then, the clothes processing mechanism 300 performs processing such as washing, rinsing, dewatering, and drying on the clothes based on the control of the control unit 200.

The drying processing mechanism 400 includes at least a blower 410, a heat pump device 420, and the like. Then, the drying processing mechanism 400 performs the drying processing of the clothes.

The water supply mechanism 500 is composed of a valve unit 510 and a water sprayer 520, and the valve unit 510 has a first water supply valve 511 and a second water supply valve 512. Furthermore, the water sprinkling mechanism 700 includes the first water supply valve 511 of the valve unit 510 and the water sprinkling portion 520. Then, the water supply mechanism 500 supplies water to the washing tub 320 and the like in the housing 110, and performs water sprinkling to the heat exchanger 420 such as the heat pump device 420 of the drying processing mechanism 400 via the water sprinkling mechanism 700.

The drainage mechanism 600 comprises at least a circulation pump 610 and a drainage valve 620. Then, the drainage mechanism 600 drains the housing 110.

Hereinafter, the washing operation based on the driving course inputted by the console 201 will be specifically described.

As shown in FIG. 2, first, the user operates the console 201 to select one driving course from the first driving course to the fifth driving course. Thereby, the console 201 outputs course information on the selected driving course to the control unit 200.

At this time, when one of the first driving course to the fourth driving course is selected by the console 201, the washing step is first executed.

In the washing step, the user moves the door 120 to the open position and inserts the clothes into the washing tub 320 through the insertion port 116. At this time, the control unit 200 opens the second water supply valve 512 of the water supply mechanism 500 to supply the washing tank 320 with a mixed solution of the detergent and the tap water. Furthermore, the control unit 200 operates the circulation pump 610 of the drainage mechanism 600 to circulate a mixture of tap water and detergent between the washing tub 320 and the circulation pump 610. During this time, the control unit 200 closes the drainage valve 620 of the drainage mechanism 600. This cleans the garment with a low amount of water and detergent.

Note that the control unit 200 operates the circulation pump 610 for a predetermined period, or physical properties of the liquid circulating between the washing tub 320 and the circulation pump 610, for example, the degree of water contamination detected by a contamination sensor or the like. In response, the drain valve 620 is opened and the housing 110 is drained. Thereby, the washing time can be changed. The dirt sensor is provided, for example, in the vicinity of the upstream side of the circulation pump.

Then, the control unit 200 controls the motor 310 to rotationally drive the washing tub 320, thereby stirring the introduced clothes in the liquid mixture. This will perform a wash step to properly wash the garment. In the present embodiment, the washing step is exemplified as the first mode.

Next, when one of the first to third driving courses is selected by the console 201, the washing and drying machine 100 performs a rinsing step after the washing step.

In the rinsing step, first, the control unit 200 opens the second feed valve 512 of the feed mechanism 500 to supply tap water to the washing tub 320. Thereby, the clothes in the washing tub 320 are agitated in a liquid having a lower detergent concentration than the mixture used in the washing step. As a result, the detergent attached to the clothes is properly washed away. At this time, if necessary, a dewatering operation may be performed via the drainage mechanism 600 during the rinsing step. The drain valve 620 may be open or closed during the dewatering operation, or may be closed during the dewatering operation. That is, the drainage end step in which the drainage valve 620 is closed is set at an arbitrary timing during dehydration. Prior to this drainage end step, the water sprinkling from the water sprinkling mechanism 700 is ended. Thus, it is possible to drain the washing water, which has washed the heat exchanger together with the washing water, to the outside of the machine, and to reduce the amount of foreign matter such as lint remaining in the first drainage path and the second drainage path. As a result, the generation of an offensive odor, the generation of an offensive odor due to the clogging of foreign substances in the first drainage path and the second drainage path, and the drying failure can be prevented to maintain the drying performance.

In addition, the control unit 200 may operate the circulation pump 610 to circulate the liquid between the washing tub 320 and the circulation pump 610. During this time, the control unit 200 closes the drain valve 620. At this time, after the control unit 200 operates the circulation pump 610 for a predetermined period, or the physical property of the liquid circulating between the washing tub 320 and the circulation pump 610, for example, the degree of water contamination detected by a contamination sensor or the like. The drainage valve 620 is opened to drain water from the housing 110 depending on the situation.

That is, in the rinsing step, it is preferable to repeat circulation and drainage.

In the present embodiment, the rinsing step is exemplified as the second mode. Also, in the present embodiment, the washing step and the rinsing step are exemplified as a stirring mode in water.

The control unit 200 opens the first water supply valve 511 of the water supply mechanism 500 to send tap water to the water discharge unit 520, for example, at the time of drainage in one of the washing step and the rinsing step described above. And the water sprinkling part 520 which comprises the water sprinkling mechanism 700 sprays tap water on heat exchangers 420, such as a heat pump apparatus 420, and water-sprays. As a result, dust such as lint and hair separated from clothes attached to the heat pump apparatus 420 disposed on the flow path of air from the washing tub 320 to the blower 410 is appropriately removed. In the present embodiment, the first water supply valve 511 and the water sprayer 520 are exemplified as a water spray mechanism.

Next, when the first operation course or the second operation course is selected by the console 201, the washing / drying machine 100 performs a dewatering step after the rinsing step.

In the dewatering step, first, the control unit 200 opens the drain valve 620 of the drain mechanism 600 to drain the water in the washing tub 320. Thereafter, the washing tub 320 is rotated by the motor 310 to apply centrifugal force to the clothes to separate water from the clothes. Thereby, the clothes are dehydrated.

Next, when the first operation course is selected by the console 201, the washing and drying machine 100 performs a drying step after the dewatering step.

In the drying step, the control unit 200 causes the motor 310 to rotate the washing tub 320 to agitate the clothes to cause the clothes to collide with the dry air supplied through the drying processing mechanism 400. As a result, the clothes are dried efficiently.

More specifically, in the drying step, the control unit 200 operates the blower 410 and the heat pump device 420 disposed on the flow path of the air flowing to the blower 410. At this time, the blower 410 sucks air from the washing tub 320. The heat pump device 420 exchanges heat with the air flowing towards the blower 410 to create dry air. The produced dry air is again sent to the washing tub 320 by the blower 410. As a result, the clothes being stirred in the washing tub 320 collide with the circulating dry air and are efficiently dried.

As described above, the washing operation of the washing and drying machine is executed based on the first to the fourth operation courses input by the console 201.

In addition, the 1st driving course to the 4th driving course inputted by console 201 aim at washing of clothes.

On the other hand, the fifth operation course input by the console 201 aims to wash the washing tub 320, and the washing tub 320 is cleaned by the same process as the second operation course.

That is, the fifth operation course includes the washing step, the rinsing step and the dewatering step, as in the second operation course. The operations of the clothing processing mechanism 300, the water supply mechanism 500, and the drainage mechanism 600 during the above steps in the fifth driving course are the same as those in the second driving course.

However, since the fifth operation course aims to wash the washing tub 320, it is not necessary to consider the damage of clothes. Therefore, although detailed description is omitted, the parameters of the second operation course differ in various parameters such as the stirring time of the washing tub 320, the stirring speed, the amount of water used, the amount of detergent used and the amount of detergent used. In the present embodiment, the washing step, the rinsing step and the dewatering step of the fifth operation course are exemplified as the bath cleaning mode.

(Clothing processing mechanism)
Hereinafter, the configuration and operation of the clothes processing mechanism of the washing and drying machine according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. 2 and using FIG.

FIG. 3 is a schematic cross-sectional view for explaining the internal configuration of the washing and drying machine shown in FIG.

As shown in FIG. 3, the clothes processing mechanism 300 includes at least a motor 310 and a washing tub 320.

The washing tub 320 includes a rotating drum 330 containing the clothes L, and a water tub 340 surrounding the rotating drum 330. Then, the washing tub 320 opens toward the front wall 111 of the housing 110 and accommodates the clothes L supplied by the user through the inlet 116. In addition, FIG. 3 has shown the state in which the insertion port 116 of the washing tank 320 was closed by the door 120. As shown in FIG.

The rotary drum 330 includes a second bottom wall 331 adjacent to the first bottom wall 341 of the water tank 340 and a second peripheral wall 332 extending from the periphery of the second bottom wall 331 toward the front wall 111 of the housing 110. . A large number of vent holes 333 are formed in the second bottom wall 331 and the second peripheral wall 332 of the rotary drum 330.

The water tank 340 includes a first bottom wall 341 adjacent to the motor 310 and a first peripheral wall 342 extending from the periphery of the first bottom wall 341 toward the front wall 111 of the housing 110.

The motor 310 is disposed outside the water tank 340 and between the first bottom wall 341 of the water tank 340 and the rear wall 112 of the housing 110.

In addition, the motor 310 is connected to the rotary drum 330 via the shaft 350 and generates a driving force for stirring the clothes L in the washing tub 320. At this time, the shaft 350 connected to the motor 310 penetrates the first bottom wall 341 of the water tank 340 and is connected to the second bottom wall 331 of the rotary drum 330.

Then, when the motor 310 is operated by the control unit 200, the driving force is transmitted to the rotating drum 330 through the shaft 350. As a result, the rotary drum 330 rotates in the water tank 340 and stirs the clothes L.

(Dry processing mechanism)
Hereinafter, the configuration and operation of the drying processing mechanism of the washing and drying machine according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 2 and 3.

The drying processing mechanism 400 includes a circulation duct 430 and an air filter portion 440 in addition to the blower 410 and the heat pump device 420 described above.

As shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, the circulation duct 430 is composed of a first end 431, an upstream duct 433, a downstream duct 434, and a second end 432. The first end 431 is connected to the first circumferential wall 342 of the water tank 340. The second end 432 is connected to the first bottom wall 341 of the water tank 340. The upstream duct 433 is provided to extend toward the rear wall 112 between the first end 431 and the first circumferential wall 342 of the water tank 340 and the top wall 115 of the housing 110. The downstream duct 434 is bent downward from the upstream duct 433 and extends to a second end 432 between the first bottom wall 341 of the water tank 340 and the rear wall 112 of the housing 110.

Also, the blower 410 is disposed at a bend between the upstream duct 433 and the downstream duct 434. Then, the blower 410 sucks the air in the upstream duct 433 and sends the sucked air to the downstream duct 434. Thus, the air flows into the water tank 340 through the second end 432 of the circulation duct 430. The air flowing into the water tank 340 flows into the rotating drum 330 through the vent holes 333 formed in the second bottom wall 331. Thereafter, the air is discharged from the rotating drum 330 through the vent holes 333 formed in the second peripheral wall 332. Further, the air exhausted from the rotary drum 330 flows into the upstream duct 433 through the first end 431 of the circulation duct 430. Then, air is again fed into the washing tub 320 and circulated by the blower 410 through the downstream duct 434.

The air filter portion 440 is disposed upstream of the blower 410 in the upstream duct 433 and removes dust such as lint floating in the air drawn from the inside of the washing tub 320 by the blower 410.

The heat exchange unit 450 is disposed in the upstream duct 433 upstream of the blower 410 and with the air filter unit 440, and exchanges heat with the air that has passed through the washing tub 320. The heat exchange unit 450 includes a heat exchanger 420 such as a heat pump device 420 configured of a dehumidifying unit 421 that dehumidifies air and a heating unit 422 that heats the air.

The drying processing mechanism 400 configured as described above operates as follows.

First, air sucked from the washing tub 320 by the blower 410 and passed through the air filter portion 440 passes through the dehumidifying portion 421 of the heat pump device 420. At this time, moisture such as water vapor contained in the air condenses in the dehumidifying part 421. As a result, the humidity of the air is reduced. Thereafter, the air having passed through the dehumidifying part 421 passes through the heating part 422. At this time, the air is heated. That is, the heat pump apparatus 420 which comprises the heat exchange part 450 heat-exchanges with the air which passed the washing tub 320, and produces the dry air for drying the clothes L.

The dry air created by the heat exchange unit 450 is sent by the blower 410 into the washing tub 320 through the downstream duct 434 of the circulation duct 430.

As a result, while the dry air passes through the rotary drum 330, the clothes L collide with the dry air, and the clothes L are dried. As a result, the air exhausted from the washing tub 320 through the first end 431 of the circulation duct 430 has high humidity. At this time, dust such as lint generated from the clothes L or hair attached to the clothes L mixes in the air discharged from the washing tub 320 and floats.

Then, the air filter portion 440 removes dust from the air flowing in the upstream duct 433. After that, the dehumidifying unit 421 of the heat pump device 420 removes moisture from the air. As a result, the dehumidifying unit 421 becomes wet due to condensation or the like.

At this time, the air filter portion 440 captures most of the dust contained in the air, but some dust passes through the air filter portion 440. Then, the dust that has passed through the air filter portion 440 adheres to the wet dehumidifying portion 421.

Therefore, as described with reference to FIG. 2, water is supplied from the first water supply valve 511 of the water supply mechanism 500 to the water discharge unit 520 by the water supply mechanism 500, and water is supplied from the water discharge unit 520 to the dehumidifying part 421. Thereby, the dust adhering to the dehumidifying part 421 is removed.

Hereinafter, the configuration and operation of the heat pump device constituting the heat exchange unit of the washing and drying machine of the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. 3 and using FIG.

FIG. 4 is a schematic view of a heat pump apparatus of the washing and drying machine shown in FIG.

As shown in FIG. 4, the heat pump device 420 includes at least a compressor 423, an expansion valve 424, a first circulation tube 425, a second circulation tube 426 and the like. The compressor 423 compresses the working medium, and the expansion valve 424 reduces the working medium. The first circulation tube 425 guides the working medium flowing from the expansion valve 424 to the compressor 423. The second circulation tube 426 guides the working medium flowing from the compressor 423 to the expansion valve 424. The first circulation tube 425 and the second circulation tube 426 are provided to form a closed loop passing through the compressor 423 and the expansion valve 424.

At this time, the working medium flowing through the first circulation tube 425 has a low temperature due to the pressure reduction by the expansion valve 424. On the other hand, the working medium flowing through the second circulation tube 426 becomes high temperature by compression by the compressor 423.

In addition, the first circulation tube 425 and the second circulation tube 426 are provided to protrude into the circulation duct 430 for guiding the air drawn from the washing tub 320 by the blower 410.

And the dehumidifying part 421 of the heat pump device 420 is constituted by the first circulation tube 425 which defines the flow path folded back many times and the many fins 427 attached to the first circulation tube 425 in the circulation duct 430. ing.

In addition, the heating unit 422 of the heat pump device 420 is configured of the second circulation tube 426 defining a flow path folded back many times and the many fins 428 attached to the second circulation tube 426 in the circulation duct 430. ing.

Then, the air flowing in the circulation duct 430 is cooled by the first circulation tube 425 and the fins 427 which are cooled by the low temperature working medium and which constitute the dehumidifying part 421 of the heat pump device 420. Thus, moisture in the air condenses on the surfaces of the first circulation tube 425 and the fins 427. As a result, the air is dehumidified.

Thereafter, the dehumidified air is heated by the second circulation tube 426 and the fins 428, which constitute the heating portion 422 of the heat pump device 420, which is heated by the high temperature working medium. As a result, the air becomes high temperature and becomes dry air suitable for drying the clothes L.

That is, the dehumidifying unit 421 and the heating unit 422 that constitute the heat pump device 420 exchange heat with the air flowing in the circulation duct 430 to create dry air. In the present embodiment, the dehumidifying unit 421 and the heating unit 422 are exemplified as a heat pump device or a heat exchanger.

(Water supply mechanism)
Hereinafter, the configuration and operation of the water supply mechanism of the washing and drying machine according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 3 and using FIG. 5.

FIG. 5 is a schematic block diagram for explaining a water supply mechanism of the washing and drying machine shown in FIG.

As shown in FIG. 5, the water supply mechanism 500 includes a water supply port 530, a switching valve 540, and a detergent storage portion 550 in addition to the valve unit 510 and the water spray portion 520 described above.

As shown in FIG. 1 and FIG. 3, the water supply port 530 is provided on the top wall 115 of the housing 110 and connected to a water faucet (not shown) via a hose (not shown) or the like. Then, tap water is supplied to the water supply mechanism 500 through the water supply port 530. In the present embodiment, water supply port 530 is illustrated as a water supply unit.

That is, tap water is supplied to the valve unit 510 through the water supply port 530. Then, when the second water supply valve 512 is opened by the control unit 200, the tap water supplied to the valve unit 510 flows toward the switching valve 540.

Control unit 200 controls not only valve unit 510 of water supply mechanism 500 but also switching valve 540. The switching valve 540 switches the water supply path between the path A directed to the detergent storage portion 550 and the path B directly directed to the washing tank 320 under the control of the control unit 200.

That is, in the washing step, the control unit 200 controls the switching valve 540, and sets the route A to which tap water is directed to the detergent storage unit 550 in which the detergent is stored. Thus, the mixture of detergent and tap water is supplied to the washing tub 320.

Further, in the rinsing step, the control unit 200 controls the switching valve 540 to set the path B so that the tap water is directed directly to the washing tub 320. Thus, tap water is supplied to the washing tub 320. In the present embodiment, the water supply path leading to the washing tub 320 through the water supply port 530, the second water supply valve 512, and the switching valve 540 is exemplified as a second water supply path.

Further, as shown in FIG. 3, the water supply mechanism 500 includes a water supply tube 560 which extends from the first water supply valve 511 to the water discharger 520. Then, the control unit 200 opens the first water supply valve 511 in at least one of the washing step and the rinsing step. As a result, tap water is supplied to the water spray unit 520, and water is sprinkled from the water spray unit 520 to, for example, the upstream end of the dehumidifying unit 421, thereby cleaning the dehumidifying unit 421. Thereafter, the control unit 200 closes the first water supply valve 511 and stops the water supply to the water discharge unit 520. In the present embodiment, the water supply path defined by the water supply port 530, the first water supply valve 511, and the water supply tube 560 is exemplified as a first water supply path.

When the user selects one of the first to fourth operation courses shown in FIG. 2, the control unit 200 selects the first water supply valve 511 and the second water supply valve 512 in the washing step. It may be opened and closed. That is, the control unit 200 may close the second water supply valve 512 while opening the first water supply valve 511. Thereby, water such as tap water supplied from the water supply port 530 can be jetted from the water spray unit 520 to the dehumidifying unit 421 at a high pressure. As a result, the dehumidifying part 421 can be properly cleaned. On the other hand, the controller 200 may open the second water supply valve 512 while closing the first water supply valve 511. Thereby, water can be efficiently supplied to the washing tub 320. Furthermore, the control unit 200 may simultaneously open and close the first water supply valve 511 and the second water supply valve 512.

In addition, when the user selects one of the first operation course to the third operation course shown in FIG. 2, the control unit 200 selects the first water supply valve 511 and the second water supply valve 512 in the rinsing step. It may be opened and closed. That is, the control unit 200 may close the second water supply valve 512 while opening the first water supply valve 511. Thereby, water such as tap water supplied from the water supply port 530 can be jetted from the water spray unit 520 to the dehumidifying unit 421 at a high pressure. As a result, as a result, the dehumidifying part 421 can be properly cleaned. On the other hand, the controller 200 may open the second water supply valve 512 while closing the first water supply valve 511. Thereby, water can be efficiently supplied to the washing tub 320. Furthermore, the control unit 200 may simultaneously open and close the first water supply valve 511 and the second water supply valve 512.

In addition, when the user selects the fifth operation course shown in FIG. 2, in the washing step and / or the rinsing step, the control unit 200 selectively opens and closes the first water supply valve 511 and the second water supply valve 512. May be That is, the control unit 200 may close the second water supply valve 512 while opening the first water supply valve 511. Thereby, water such as tap water supplied from the water supply port 530 can be jetted from the water spray unit 520 to the dehumidifying unit 421 at a high pressure. As a result, the dehumidifying part 421 can be properly cleaned. On the other hand, the controller 200 may open the second water supply valve 512 while closing the first water supply valve 511. Thus, water can be efficiently supplied to the washing tub 320 to wash the washing tub 320. Furthermore, the control unit 200 may simultaneously open and close the first water supply valve 511 and the second water supply valve 512.

Hereinafter, the configuration and operation of the heat exchange unit of the washing and drying machine of the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 and 3 and using FIG.

FIG. 6 is a schematic perspective view illustrating the heat exchange unit of the washing and drying machine shown in FIG.

As shown in FIG. 6, in addition to the above-described heat pump device 420, the heat exchange unit 450 further includes an upper covering portion 460 that covers the upper portion of the heat pump device 420.

The upper cover 460 includes a main body 461, a circular frame 462, and a rectangular frame 463, and is used as a part of the circulation duct 430. The main body 461 of the upper cover 460 covers the heat pump device 420. A blower 410 is attached to the circular frame 462 and a circular vent 464 is formed at the center. The rectangular frame 463 has a substantially rectangular (including rectangular) outlet 465 and is provided so as to protrude above the air filter portion 440.

Then, the blower 410 attached to the circular frame 462 sucks air from the heat pump device 420 through the vent 464 of the circular frame 462 of the upper cover 460. Thereby, the dry air generated by the heat pump device 420 is fed by the blower 410 to the washing tub 320 through the downstream duct 434 of the circulation duct 430.

In addition, as shown in FIG. 1, the housing 110 includes a lid 117 removable from the ceiling wall 115, and the user removes the lid 117 from the ceiling wall 115 through the outlet 465 of the rectangular frame 463, The air filter portion 440 is exposed. Therefore, the user can take out the air filter portion 440 from the housing 110 through the outlet 465 of the rectangular frame 463. Thereby, the user can remove and clean the lint and the like attached to the air filter portion 440. Thereafter, the user can reinstall the cleaned air filter portion 440 in the circulation duct 430 in the housing 110 through the outlet 465.

Further, between the rectangular frame 463 of the upper cover 460 and the dehumidifying part 421 of the heat pump device 420, a water sprinkling part 520 that constitutes the water sprinkling mechanism 700 of the water supply mechanism 500 described above is provided.

In the following, the configuration and operation of the water sprinkling unit constituting the water sprinkling mechanism of the washing and drying machine of the present embodiment will be described using FIG. 7 with reference to FIGS.

FIG. 7 is a schematic bottom view illustrating the heat exchange unit of the washing and drying machine shown in FIG.

As shown in FIG. 7, the water sprinkling portion 520 is provided on the upper side in the vicinity of the upstream side of the dehumidifying portion 421, and includes a connection portion 529 and a manifold 521 having a large number of small holes 522. The connection portion 529 is connected to the first water supply valve 511 of the water supply mechanism 500 via the water supply tube 560. The manifold 521 defines a flow path through which the water fed from the water supply tube 560 flows.

The small holes 522 of the manifold 521 are formed, for example, in a line in a direction orthogonal to the direction in which the air of the dehumidifying unit 421 of the heat pump device 420 flows.

Then, by sprinkling water from the water sprinkling portion 520 to the dehumidifying portion 421 through the small holes 522, the attached lint and the like can be removed to clean the heat pump device 420.

The distribution of the large number of small holes 522 formed in the manifold 521 can be determined according to the design of the heat exchange unit 450. For example, in the present embodiment, the density of the small holes 522B in the area (the right half of the manifold 521 in FIG. 7) facing the connection port 474 of the first pocket 471 described below with reference to FIG. It is constructed more densely than the small holes 522A. The reason is that a relatively large amount of dust mixed in the air adheres to the area of the dehumidifying part 421 facing the connection port 474 of the first pocket 471. Therefore, the density of the small holes 522B of the water spray portion 520 facing the connection port 474 of the first pocket 471 is increased. As a result, the amount of water sprayed from the water sprayer 520 is increased, and dust attached to the dehumidifying unit 421 can be removed more appropriately.

Below, the flow (processing) of the water in the heat exchange part and the water sprinkling part of the washing and drying machine of the present embodiment will be described using FIG. 8 with reference to FIGS. 2 to 4 and FIG.

FIG. 8 is a schematic perspective view illustrating the heat exchange unit of the washing and drying machine shown in FIG.

As shown in FIG. 8, the heat exchange unit 450 further includes a lower cover 470 in addition to the heat pump device 420 and the upper cover 460.

The lower cover portion 470 includes a first pocket 471, a second pocket 472 and a third pocket 473 and forms a part of the circulation duct 430. The first pocket 471 accommodates the air filter portion 440. The second pocket 472 accommodates the dehumidifying part 421 and the heating part 422. The third pocket 473 accommodates the compressor 423.

And by integrating the upper cover 460 and the lower cover 470, a part of the upstream duct 433 of the circulation duct 430 is formed.

Further, in the first pocket 471, a connection port 474 connected to the upstream duct 433 upstream from the heat exchange unit 450 is formed. Then, air flows into the air filter portion 440 through the connection port 474 of the first pocket 471 by the suction force from the blower 410. At this time, the air filter portion 440 removes much dust mixed in the air flowing in through the connection port 474.

However, part of the dust may pass through the air filter portion 440 and reach the second pocket 472.

At this time, since the dehumidifying unit 421 of the heat pump device 420 dehumidifies water vapor and the like contained in the air that has passed through the air filter unit 440, the dehumidifying unit 421 is wet due to dew condensation. Furthermore, as described with reference to FIG. 4, the dehumidifying unit 421 is configured of a large number of fins 427 closely attached to the first circulation tube 425 through which the low temperature working medium flows. Therefore, most of the dust that has passed through the air filter portion 440 is efficiently captured by the wet dehumidifying portion 421.

As a result, the dust captured by the dehumidifying part 421 is properly removed by water sprinkling from the small holes 522 of the water sprinkling part 520.

Further, the second pocket 472 of the lower cover 470 has a bottom wall 475 supporting the dehumidifying part 421 and the heating part 422, which faces the water spray part 520 provided in the upper cover 460. The bottom wall 475 appropriately receives the water from the water spray unit 520 and the water falling from the dehumidifying unit 421. In the present embodiment, the second pocket 472 is exemplified as a water receiving portion.

Further, the second pocket 472 of the lower cover 470 protrudes upward from the bottom wall 475 and includes a large number of catching teeth 476 formed between the first pocket 471 and the dehumidifying part 421. Then, the trapping teeth 476 appropriately trap dust such as long fibrous substances (for example, hair) contained in dust removed from the dehumidifying part 421 by water sprinkling from the water sprinkling part 520.

Hereinafter, with reference to FIG. 3 and FIG. 8, the flow (treatment) of water in the heat exchange part and the water sprinkling part of the washing and drying machine of the present embodiment, particularly the water flowing through the bottom wall of the second pocket of the lower cover While referring to FIG.

FIG. 9 is a schematic plan view illustrating the heat exchange unit of the washing and drying machine shown in FIG.

As shown in FIG. 9, the second pocket 472 of the lower cover 470 has a concave shape between the main drainage 477 adjacent to the dehumidifying part 421 and the heating part 422 and the main drainage 477 and the third pocket 473. And a reservoir area 478 having a connection portion 479 is provided. The main drainage 477 is provided to be inclined downward toward the water storage area 478, and the water flowing on the main drainage 477 flows into the water storage area 478.

Further, as shown in FIG. 3, the washing / drying machine 100 includes a relay tube 480 for connecting the heat exchange unit 450 and the washing tub 320, and the relay tube 480 is a connection portion 479 provided in the water storage area 478 shown in FIG. Connected with Then, the water temporarily stored in the water storage area 478 flows to the washing tub 320 through the connection portion 479 and the relay tube 480 by gravity. In the present embodiment, the flow path of water defined by bottom wall 475 and relay tube 480 is exemplified as a second drainage path.

Further, as shown in FIG. 8, the second pocket 472 of the lower cover portion 470 is provided with a rib 491 for supporting the dehumidifying portion 421 and the heating portion 422. The dehumidifying part 421 and the heating part 422 are supported by the rib 491 so as to be slightly separated upward from the bottom wall 475. Furthermore, below the dehumidifying part 421, the bottom wall 475 is inclined downward toward the main drainage channel 477. Therefore, the water dropped from the dehumidifying part 421 smoothly flows on the bottom wall 475 along the slope below the dehumidifying part 421 and flows toward the main drainage 477.

In addition, as shown in FIG. 8, among the ribs 491 supporting the dehumidifying part 421 and the heating part 422, the rib 491 closest to the first pocket 471 is a large number of traps provided on the bottom wall 475 of the first pocket 471. It separates by dividing the field in which tooth 476 was formed, and the field under the dehumidifying part 421. As a result, the water sprinkled from the water sprinkler 520 to the dehumidifying part 421 is less likely to flow directly into the area under the dehumidifying part 421. As a result, dust such as, for example, a long fibrous material removed from the dehumidifying unit 421 is easily captured by the capturing teeth 476.

Further, the area of the bottom wall 475 of the first pocket 471 where the multiple capture teeth 476 are formed is provided to be inclined downward from the rib 491 toward the outer peripheral wall of the first pocket 471. Therefore, the water sprinkled from the water sprinkler 520 to the dehumidifying part 421 flows toward the first pocket 471. As a result, dust such as a long fibrous material removed from the dehumidifying part 421 can be easily captured by the capturing teeth 476.

Further, as shown in FIG. 8, the rib 491 closest to the first pocket 471 is cut away and cut off near the main drainage 477. This defines an inlet 492 that allows water to flow from the area where the multiple capture teeth 476 are formed to the area below the dehumidifying section 421. Therefore, the water from the water sprayer 520 flows into the area under the dehumidifying unit 421 through the inlet 492. Thereafter, the inflowing water flows into the relay tube 480 through the main drainage 477 and the water storage area 478 and flows to the washing tub 320. At this time, in the present embodiment, for example, three capture teeth 476 are further provided at the boundary between the main drainage 477 and the water storage area 478. Therefore, it is further prevented that dust such as a long fibrous material flows into the relay tube 480, for example. As a result, it is possible to prevent the occurrence of clogging of the relay tube 480 and to prevent the generation of an offensive odor, the drying failure and the like.

In addition, although the tap water etc. which were connected to the water supply port 530 were demonstrated above by the example directly supplied to the water spray part 520, it is not restricted to this. For example, a water supply unit such as a pump may be provided in the water supply path to the water discharge unit 520. Thus, the pressure of the water to be sprayed can be adjusted to more effectively remove the dust.

In the above, the water that has cleaned the heat pump device 420 is discharged to the water tank 340 through the relay tube 480 connected to the connection portion 479. However, the present invention is not limited to this. .

(Draining mechanism)
The configuration and operation of the drainage mechanism of the washing and drying machine according to the present embodiment will be described below with reference to FIGS. 2 and 3.

As shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, the drainage mechanism 600 includes a connection pipe 631, a drainage valve 620, and a drainage pipe 633. The connection pipe 631 is provided to extend downward from the lowermost position of the first peripheral wall 342 of the water tank 340 which is inclined upward toward the front wall 111 of the housing 110. The drain valve 620 is connected to the lower end of the connection pipe 631. The drain 633 is provided to extend from the drain valve 620 toward the rear wall 112 of the housing 110.

Then, when the control unit 200 opens the drainage valve 620 of the drainage mechanism 600, a liquid such as water or mixed liquid in the washing tub 320 is drained from the housing 110 through the connection pipe 631 and the drainage pipe 633. In the present embodiment, the flow path of water defined by the connection pipe 631 and the drainage pipe 633 is exemplified as a first drainage path.

In addition, the drainage mechanism 600 may further be provided with the filter apparatus 640 arrange | positioned upstream of the circulation pump 610, as shown in FIG. In this case, after closing the drainage valve 620 of the drainage mechanism 600, the control unit 200 operates the circulation pump 610. At this time, the liquid in the washing tub 320 flows toward the connection pipe 631, the filter device 640 and the circulation pump 610 by the suction force generated by the circulation pump 610. Then, the filter device 640 captures dust contained in the liquid flowing toward the circulation pump 610. As a result, dust that has been washed away with the tap water used to clean the heat pump device 420, and dust that is separated from the clothing L and contained in water in the washing step and the rinsing step are properly captured by the filter device. . Thereafter, the circulation pump 610 returns the liquid cleaned by the filter device 640 to the water tank 340 through the second circulation duct 636. In the present embodiment, the connection pipe 631, the filter device 640, and the circulation pump 610 are exemplified as a circulation mechanism.

The drainage mechanism 600 may further include a transmission type optical sensor 650 attached to the first circulation duct 634 as shown in FIG. 3 below. At this time, in the washing step, the light sensor 650 outputs an electrical signal according to the amount of transmitted light in the water used to stir the clothes L. The amount of light transmission can be used as a parameter representative of the amount of soiling of water used to stir the clothes L. In the present embodiment, the light sensor 650 is exemplified as a measurement unit. The amount of contamination detected by the light sensor 650 is exemplified as the physical property of water.

(Operation of washing machine)
The control operation in the washing step of the washing and drying machine according to the present embodiment will be described below with reference to FIGS. 10 to 12 with reference to FIG.

FIG. 10 is a flow chart for explaining the control operation in the washing step of the washing and drying machine in the embodiment. FIG. 11 is a schematic block diagram for explaining the control operation of the washing and drying machine in the same embodiment. FIG. 12 is a diagram showing an example of an output from an optical sensor of the washing and drying machine shown in FIG.

As shown in FIG. 10, first, when the user operates console 201 and selects one of the first operation course to the fourth operation course, control unit 200 controls first water supply valve 511 and drainage valve 620. While the second water supply valve 512 is opened to start water supply to the washing tub 320 (step S105). At this time, the control unit 200 controls the switching valve 540, and sets the water supply path to the path A so that the tap water supplied from the water supply port 530 passes through the detergent storage portion 550. Thus, the tap water containing the detergent is efficiently supplied to the laundry tub 320.

Next, the control unit 200 determines whether the amount of water stored in the washing tank 320 has reached a predetermined value (step S110). In addition, the setting value regarding the water storage amount in the washing tub 320 is determined according to parameters, such as an input by the user using the console 201, the amount of clothes stored in the washing tub 320, and the like. In addition, the amount of water supplied into the washing tub 320 is detected based on an elapsed time from the time when water supply is started, and an output signal from a liquid level sensor (not shown) attached to the washing tub 320. . At this time, when the amount of water stored in the washing tub 320 is not a predetermined value (NO in step S110), water is supplied until the amount of water reaches a predetermined value.

On the other hand, when the amount of water stored in the washing tub 320 reaches a predetermined value or more (YES in step S110), the control unit 200 closes the second water supply valve 512 and interrupts the water feeding to the washing tub 320 (step S115). .

Next, the controller 200 operates the circulation pump 610 and the motor 310 (step S120). As a result, circulation of the mixed liquid such as detergent and tap water between the washing tub 320 and the circulation pump 610 and agitation of clothes in the washing tub 320 are started.

Next, as shown in FIG. 12, the control unit 200 sets the first measurement time to, for example, 2 minutes and the second measurement time to, for example, 4 minutes and 10 seconds, and starts clocking (step S125).

Next, the control unit 200 determines whether or not the first measurement time has come based on the clocking start time set in step 125 (step S130). At this time, if it is not the first measurement time (NO in step S130), the process waits until the first measurement time is reached.

On the other hand, when it is determined that the first measurement time has come (YES in step S130), the control unit 200 stores the output value from the light sensor 650 shown in FIG. 12 (step S135).

Next, the control unit 200 determines whether or not the second measurement time has come based on the clocking start time set in step S125 (step S140). At this time, if it is not the second measurement time (NO in step S140), the process waits until the second measurement time is reached.

On the other hand, when it is determined that the second measurement time has come (YES in step S140), the control unit 200 acquires an output value from the light sensor 650 shown in FIG. 12 (step S142).

Next, the control unit 200 calculates a difference as shown in FIG. 12 using the output value acquired in step S142 and the output value stored in step S135 (step S145).

Next, the control unit 200 determines the control content of the washing step based on the result of the difference calculation in step S145 (step S150).

Next, the control unit 200 opens the first water supply valve 511, and cleans the heat pump device 420 through the water spray unit 520 (step S155). Then, after cleaning the heat pump device 420 for a predetermined time, the control unit 200 closes the first water supply valve 511.

Next, the control unit 200 executes the control content determined in step S150 (step S160). At this time, if the control unit 200 determines that the contamination level of the liquid in the washing tank 320 is excessively high in step S150, for example, the circulation pump 610 is stopped and the drainage valve 620 is opened to drain the liquid (drainage) Start step). Then, after the drainage valve 620 is opened to drain the liquid for a predetermined period, the control unit 200 closes the drainage valve 620 (draining termination step) and opens the second water supply valve 512 to supply water to the washing tub 320. Thereby, the level of dirt in the washing tub 320 can be reduced.

In the present embodiment, although the example using the optical sensor 650 to measure physical properties of water such as dirt is described, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, a detection element such as a conductive sensor may be used to measure physical properties of water. This makes it possible to detect the concentration of detergent in the water and the type of detergent.

Moreover, although the example which measures the physical property of water in the washing | cleaning step was demonstrated in this Embodiment, it is not restricted to this. For example, in the rinsing step, a physical property of water such as the concentration of detergent in water may be measured using a conductivity sensor or the like.

In addition, after the liquid is drained, the dewatering operation may be performed. The drain valve 620 may be open or closed during the dewatering operation, or may be closed during the dewatering operation. That is, the drainage end step in which the drainage valve 620 is closed is set at an arbitrary timing during dehydration.

The control operation in the rinsing step of the washing and drying machine according to the present embodiment will be described below with reference to FIGS. 10 and 11 and using FIG.

FIG. 13 is a flow chart for explaining the control operation in the rinsing step of the washing and drying machine shown in FIG.

As shown in FIG. 13, first, when the user operates the console 201 and selects one of the first driving course to the third driving course, the control unit 200 controls the heat pump device 420 after the washing step. Cleaning is started (step S205). Specifically, the control unit 200 closes the second water supply valve 512 and the drain valve 620, and opens the first water supply valve 511 to clean the heat pump device 420.

Next, after the heat pump device 420 is cleaned, the control unit 200 closes the first water supply valve 511 and opens the second water supply valve 512 to start water supply to the washing tub 320 (step S210). At this time, the control unit 200 controls the switching valve 540, and sets the water supply path to the path B so that the tap water supplied from the water supply port 530 bypasses the detergent storage portion 550. Thus, tap water is directly supplied to the washing tub 320. When water supply to the washing tub 320 is started, step S215 is executed.

Next, the control unit 200 determines whether the amount of water stored in the washing tub 320 has reached a predetermined value (step S215). In addition, the setting value regarding the water storage amount in the washing tub 320 is determined according to parameters, such as an input by the user using the console 201, the amount of clothes stored in the washing tub 320, and the like. In addition, the amount of water supplied into the washing tub 320 is detected according to an elapsed time from the time when water supply is started and an output signal from a liquid level sensor (not shown) attached to the washing tub 320. .

At this time, when the amount of water stored in the washing tub 320 is not a predetermined value (NO in step S215), water is supplied until the amount of water reaches a predetermined value.

On the other hand, when the amount of water stored in the washing tub 320 reaches a predetermined value or more (YES in step S215), the control unit 200 closes the second water supply valve 512 and interrupts the water feeding to the washing tub 320 (step S220). .

Next, the control unit 200 operates the circulation pump 610 and the motor 310 (step S225). Thereby, the circulation of the mixed liquid such as the detergent and the tap water between the washing tub 320 and the circulation pump 610 and the driving of the motor 310 start the agitation of the clothes in the washing tub 320.

Next, the control unit 200 sets a predetermined circulation period (for example, 10 minutes) and starts clocking (step S230).

Next, the control unit 200 determines whether a predetermined circulation period has elapsed based on the clocking start time set in step 230 (step S235). At this time, when the predetermined circulation period has not elapsed (NO in step S235), the process waits until the predetermined circulation period is reached.

On the other hand, when the predetermined circulation period has elapsed (YES in step S235), the control unit 200 opens the drain valve 620 and performs a drainage start step of draining water from the washing tank 320 (step S240).

Next, after draining from the washing tub 320, the control unit 200 counts the number of drains (that is, the number of times the drain valve 620 is opened) (step S245).

Next, it is determined whether the number of times of drainage has reached a predetermined value (step S250). At this time, if the number of times of drainage has not reached the predetermined value (NO in step S250), the steps from step 210 onward are repeated.

And when the frequency | count of drainage reaches a predetermined value (YES of step S250), a rinse step is complete | finished.

Thus, the rinsing step of the washing and drying machine of the present embodiment is performed.

That is, according to the present embodiment, as described with reference to FIGS. 10 and 13, the heat pump device 420 is cleaned prior to the washing operation (step S160) and / or the rinsing operation (step S225). Therefore, dust contained in the water used for cleaning the heat pump device 420 is appropriately processed in the later step S160 and / or step S225. As a result, dust contained in the water used for cleaning the heat pump device 420 can be prevented from adhering to the clothes.

Hereinafter, operations of the first water supply valve and the drain valve in the water dispensing operation of the water dispensing mechanism of the washing and drying machine of the present embodiment will be described using FIG. 14 with reference to FIG. 10, FIG. 11 and FIG.

FIG. 14 is a schematic timing chart for explaining the opening and closing timings of the first water supply valve and the drain valve of the washing and drying machine shown in FIG.

As described with reference to FIGS. 11 and 13, the control unit 200 opens the first water supply valve 511 and closes the drain valve 620. Alternatively, the controller 200 opens the drain valve 620 while closing the first water supply valve 511.

At this time, as shown in FIG. 14, the first water supply valve 511 is controlled to be closed before the drain valve 620 is opened (drain start step).

That is, the drainage valve 620 is opened to terminate the water sprinkling from the water sprinkling mechanism 700 before starting the drainage. Thereby, the water used for cleaning the heat pump device 420 can be drained at the initial stage of the drainage step in which the flow rate of the washing water drained from the washing tub 320 is large. As a result, foreign matter contained in the water used for cleaning the heat pump device 420 can be discharged to the outside of the machine more reliably.

(Design of driving course)
Below, in the driving | operation course of the washing-drying machine of this Embodiment, the timing which wash | cleans a heat pump apparatus is demonstrated using FIG. 15A and FIG. 15B.

FIG. 15A is a view for explaining a design pattern of each operation course of the washing and drying machine in the embodiment. FIG. 15B is a view for explaining another design pattern of each operation course of the washing and drying machine in the embodiment.

First, as shown in FIG. 15A, when the user selects the fourth driving course from the first driving course, the washing step is first performed. Therefore, the step of cleaning the heat pump device 420 is designed to be incorporated and executed in the cleaning step.

Also, as shown in FIG. 15B, when the user selects a third driving course from the first driving course, a rinsing step is performed after the washing step. Therefore, the step of cleaning the heat pump device 420 is designed to be implemented by being incorporated into the rinsing step.

Below, the timing of washing | cleaning of the heat pump apparatus in each step of the 1st driving | operation course in the washing / drying machine of this Embodiment is demonstrated using FIG.

FIG. 16 is a view for explaining each design pattern of the first operation course of the washing and drying machine in the embodiment.

First, as shown in FIG. 16, the first design pattern of the first operation course is a design pattern in which the step of cleaning the dehumidifying unit 421 of the heat pump device 420 is incorporated in the cleaning step. In addition, the second design pattern of the first operation course is a design pattern in which the step of cleaning the dehumidifying unit 421 of the heat pump device 420 is incorporated in the rinsing step. Furthermore, the third design pattern of the first driving course is a design pattern in which the step of cleaning the dehumidifying unit 421 of the heat pump device 420 is separately provided after the dewatering step.

Next, the relationship between the operation time of the washing and drying machine and the amount of water used in the first to third design patterns will be described with reference to FIG.

FIG. 17 is a diagram for explaining the operating time in the first to third design patterns shown in FIG.

First, as shown in FIG. 17, the first design pattern incorporates the step of cleaning the heat pump device 420 into the cleaning step. Therefore, the water used to wash the heat pump device 420 can be used to wash clothes in the washing tub 320.

Also, the second design pattern incorporates the step of cleaning the heat pump device 420 into the rinsing step. Therefore, the water used to clean the heat pump device 420 can be used to rinse clothes in the washing tub 320.

On the other hand, in the third design pattern, the step of cleaning the heat pump device 420 is separately provided after the dewatering step. Therefore, the water used for cleaning the heat pump device 420 is discharged without being used for other steps.

That is, the first design pattern performs the cleaning of the heat pump device 420 as part of the water supply step to the washing tub 320 in the cleaning step. Therefore, compared with the third design pattern, the operation time can be shortened in the first design pattern. Furthermore, compared with the third design pattern, the first design pattern can reduce the amount of water used.

Further, in the first design pattern, foreign substances such as lint and detergent slightly remaining in the drain pipe 633, which is the first drain path, are washed away by the washing water used in the rinsing step in order to wash the dehumidifying part 421 in the washing step. be able to. As a result, the first drainage path can be kept cleaner.

Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 16, in the first design pattern, the step of cleaning the heat pump device 420 is performed before the drainage. That is, before the washing water in the rotary drum 330 is drained and the drain valve 620 is closed, the water sprinkling from the water sprinkling mechanism 700 is ended. Therefore, the amount of water used for cleaning the heat pump device 420 can be considerably reduced compared to the amount of water of the washing water. That is, when the heat pump device 420 is cleaned in a state where the washing water is drained, the amount of water used for the cleaning is insufficient to flow the foreign matter such as lint without stagnation. Therefore, there is a possibility that foreign matter may remain in the drainage pipe 633 which is the first drainage path.

Therefore, in the first design pattern, the step of cleaning the heat pump device 420 is performed before the start of drainage, and the water used for cleaning the heat pump device 420 is drained from the drainage pipe 633 to the outside together with the drainage of washing water. Thus, the amount of foreign matter such as lint remaining in the first drainage path and the second drainage path can be reduced. As a result, while suppressing generation | occurrence | production of the offensive odor resulting from the remaining foreign material, the drying defect by the clogging of a 2nd drainage path can be prevented beforehand, and drying performance can be maintained.

In the first design pattern, the heat pump device 420 is preferably cleaned in the latter half of the washing step. The reason is that in the first half of the washing step, since the powder detergent is not dissolved yet, the undissolved detergent is wound up by the rotation of the rotary drum 330 and enters and adheres to the relay tube 480 which is the second drainage path. There is a case. Therefore, the heat pump device 420 is cleaned in the latter half of the washing step to wash away foreign substances in the relay tube 480. Thereby, the drying defect by the drainage clogging of the relay tube 480 can be prevented.

Next, the second design pattern performs the cleaning of the heat pump device 420 as part of the water supply step to the washing tub 320 in the rinsing step. Therefore, the operation time can be shortened in the second design pattern as compared to the third design pattern. Furthermore, compared with the third design pattern, the second design pattern can reduce the amount of water used.

Further, in the second design pattern, the water discharge from the water discharger 520 is ended before the washing water in the rotary drum 330 is drained and the drain valve 620 is closed in the rinsing step. At this time, the washing water is rolled up by the rotating drum 330, and the rolled up washing water intrudes into the relay tube 480 which is the second drainage path. However, the washing water that has entered the relay tube 480 can be washed away by the water discharged from the water spray unit 520.

That is, the water discharged to the washing tub 320 at the initial stage of the cleaning step of the dehumidifying part 421 of the heat pump apparatus 420 contains a large amount of foreign matter such as lint. However, the water discharged to the washing tank 320 at the end of the cleaning step of the dehumidifying unit 421 contains almost no foreign matter. Therefore, the water used for cleaning the heat pump device 420 is cleaner than the washing water. At this time, foreign substances contained in the washing water in the initial stage of the washing step of the dehumidifying part 421 are discharged to the outside of the machine together with the drainage of the washing water. Then, the operation of the rinsing step is finished in a state where the inside of the relay tube 480 which is the second drainage path is replaced with the clean washing water at the end of the washing step of the dehumidifying part 421. As a result, the relay tube 480 which is the second drainage path can prevent the occurrence of clogging due to foreign matter.

As described above, according to the washing and drying machine of the present invention, the water tank supported in the housing, the rotating drum disposed in the water tank and containing the clothes, and the water in the water tank are discharged out of the housing The first drainage path, the drainage valve for opening and closing the first drainage path, the heat exchanger that exchanges heat with air that has passed through the inside of the rotary drum and dries the clothes, waters the heat exchanger, and the heat exchanger And a control unit. The control unit includes: a water sprinkling mechanism including a water sprinkling portion for washing the water; a second drainage path for flowing water discharged from the water sprinkling mechanism upstream of the drainage valve of the rotary drum or the first drainage path; Then, at least before the drainage end step in the drainage start step of opening the drainage valve and the drainage end step of closing the drainage valve after the drainage start step, at the time of drainage of the washing step or the rinsing step. Control to end the watering from the watering mechanism.

Thus, it is possible to drain the washing water, which has washed the heat exchanger together with the washing water, to the outside of the machine, and to reduce the amount of foreign matter such as lint remaining in the first drainage path and the second drainage path. As a result, the generation of an offensive odor, the generation of an offensive odor due to the clogging of foreign substances in the first drainage path and the second drainage path, and the drying failure can be prevented to maintain the drying performance.

Further, according to the washing and drying machine of the present invention, the control unit controls the water sprinkling mechanism to finish the water injection before the water discharge start step.

Thus, the washing water from which the heat exchanger has been washed can be drained at the beginning of the drainage step of the washing water having a large drainage flow rate. Therefore, foreign substances contained in the wash water can be discharged to the outside of the machine more reliably.

Further, according to the washing and drying machine of the present invention, the control unit controls so that watering from the watering mechanism is performed in the washing step.

Thereby, foreign substances such as lint and detergent slightly remaining in the first drainage path can be drained by the drainage of the rinsing step. As a result, the first drainage path can be kept cleaner.

Further, according to the washing and drying machine of the present invention, the control unit controls so that watering from the watering mechanism is performed in the second half of the washing step.

Thus, the undissolved detergent that has entered the second drainage path in the first half of the washing step can be washed away with the washing water for washing the heat exchanger. As a result, clogging of the second drainage path can be prevented.

Further, according to the washing and drying machine of the present invention, the control unit controls so that watering from the watering mechanism is performed in the rinsing step.

Thus, the operation can be finished in a cleaner state in the second drainage path. As a result, it is possible to prevent the foreign matter remaining in the second drainage path from being left for a long time, and to prevent the adhesion of the second drainage path to the inner surface.

The present invention is useful for equipment such as a washer / dryer for washing and drying clothes and the like.

100 washer / dryer 110 casing 111 front wall 112 rear wall 113 left wall 114 right wall 115 ceiling wall 116 entry port 117 lid 120 door body 200 control unit 201 console 300 clothes processing mechanism 310 motor 320 washing tub 330 rotating drum 331 2 bottom wall 332 second peripheral wall 333 air vent 340 water tank 341 first bottom wall 342 first peripheral wall 350 shaft 400 drying processing mechanism 410 blower 420 heat pump device (heat exchanger)
421 Dehumidifying part 422 Heating part 423 Compressor 424 Expansion valve 425, 426 Circulation tube 427, 428 Fin 430 Circulation duct 431 First end 432 Second end 433 Upstream duct 434 Downstream duct 440 Air filter part 450 Heat exchange part 460 Part 461 Main body part 462 Circular frame 463 Rectangular frame 464 Vent 465 Lower cover part 471 First pocket 472 Second pocket 473 Third port 474 Connecting port 475 Bottom wall 476 Catching tooth 477 Main drainage 478 Water storage area 479 Connection Part 480 Relay tube 491 Rib 492 Inlet 500 Water supply mechanism 510 Valve unit 511 First water supply valve 512 Second water supply valve 520 Water discharge part 521 Manifold 522, 522A, 522B Small 529 connection portion 530 water supply port 540 switching valve 550 detergent storage unit 560 water supply tube 600 flush mechanism 610 circulation pump 620 drain valve 631 connection tube 633 drain pipe 634 first circulation duct 636 the second circulation duct 640 filter apparatus 650 optical sensor 700 watering mechanism

Claims (5)

1. A water tank supported in the housing,
   A rotating drum disposed in the water tank and containing clothes;
   A first drainage path for discharging water in the water tank to the outside of the housing;
   A drain valve for opening and closing the first drain path;
   A heat exchanger for exchanging heat with air passing through the inside of the rotating drum to dry the clothes;
   A water sprinkling mechanism including a water sprinkling portion for sprinkling the heat exchanger and cleaning the heat exchanger;
   A second drainage path for flowing water discharged from the water sprinkling mechanism upstream of the drainage valve of the rotating drum or the first drainage path;
   And a control unit,
   The control unit performs a drainage start step of opening the drainage valve and a drainage termination step performed after the drainage start step and closing the drainage valve during drainage of at least one of the washing step and the rinsing step.
   A washer / dryer that controls to terminate watering from the watering mechanism at least prior to the drainage end step.
2. The washing and drying machine according to claim 1, wherein the control unit controls the water sprinkling mechanism to end the water sprinkling prior to the drainage start step.
3. The washing and drying machine according to claim 1, wherein the control unit performs control so that watering from the watering mechanism is performed in the washing step.
4. The washing and drying machine according to claim 3, wherein the control unit controls the water sprinkling mechanism to perform water spraying in the second half of the washing step.
5. The washing and drying machine according to claim 1, wherein the control unit performs control so that watering from the watering mechanism is performed in the rinsing step.

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