WO2024029444A1

WO2024029444A1 - Washing machine and method for sterilizing outer tub of washing machine

Info

Publication number: WO2024029444A1
Application number: PCT/JP2023/027521
Authority: WO
Inventors: 昂平宮房; 健太郎藤原; 亜美柴山; 泰之堀部
Original assignee: パナソニックＩｐマネジメント株式会社
Priority date: 2022-08-05
Filing date: 2023-07-27
Publication date: 2024-02-08
Also published as: JP2024022318A

Abstract

A washing machine according to the present disclosure comprises: a washing tub that accommodates laundry; an outer tub in which the washing tub is rotatably installed; a motor that rotates the washing tub; a functional particle supply means for supplying functional particles to the outer tub; and a control means that controls operation of the motor and the functional particle supply means. The control means executes a tub cleaning operation including a sterilization step of driving the motor and the functional particle supply means and a drying step of driving the motor prior to the sterilization step.

Description

How to sterilize washing machines and their outer tubs

The present disclosure relates to a washing machine.

For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a washing machine that achieves sterilization and suppression of mold growth in a tub without relying on chemicals or heating.

The washing machine described in Patent Document 1 includes an electrostatic atomization generating means for supplying electrostatic atomization particles, a washing tub for storing laundry, an outer tub in which the washing tub is rotatably installed, and a blower. Equipped with. Electrostatically atomized particles are supplied to the washing tub and the outer tub by blowing air with an air blower.

Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2010-51513

However, in the washing machine described in Patent Document 1, there is still room for improvement in terms of improving the mold spore sterilization performance in the outer tub.

Therefore, an object of the present disclosure is to provide a washing machine that improves the mold spore sterilization performance in the outer tub in order to solve the above problems.

A washing machine according to an embodiment of the present disclosure includes a washing tub for storing laundry, an outer tub in which the washing tub is rotatably installed, a motor for rotating the washing tub, and a for supplying functional particles into the outer tub. a functional particle supply means, and a control means for controlling the operation of the motor and the functional particle supply means, the control means executes a tank clean course, and during the tank clean course, the motor and the functional particle supply means and a drying process in which the motor is operated before the sterilization process.

A method for sterilizing an outer tub of a washing machine according to an aspect of the present disclosure is a method for sterilizing an outer tub of a washing machine that includes a washing tub that stores laundry and an outer tub that rotatably houses the washing tub. A sterilization step in which the control means for controlling the operation of the washing machine operates a motor for rotating the washing tub and a functional particle supply means for supplying functional particles into the outer tub; It includes a drying step of operating the motor before the sterilization step.

According to the present disclosure, it is possible to provide a washing machine that improves the mold spore sterilization performance in the outer tub.

External perspective view of a washer/dryer according to Embodiment 1 of the present disclosure Vertical cross section of washer dryer Cross-sectional view of washer/dryer Washer dryer block circuit diagram Washing dryer process diagram Washer/dryer operation diagram Vertical cross-sectional view of a washer/dryer showing air flow due to rotation of the washing tub Schematic diagram of mold spores attached to the outer tank before drying Schematic diagram of mold spores attached to the outer tank after drying Delivery efficiency diagram of functional particles in the outer tub of a washer/dryer

(Findings, etc. that formed the basis of this disclosure)
At the time the inventors came up with the present disclosure, there were problems such as mold adhering to clothes after washing, and mold smell when opening the lid of the washing machine. There was a growing need to suppress the outbreak. Washing/drying machines capable of drying operation have a highly airtight configuration to increase drying efficiency from the viewpoint of energy saving and time reduction. For this reason, washer/dryers are easier to meet the conditions for mold growth, such as water, temperature, nutrients, and oxygen, than washing machines. In washing machines, mold is more likely to grow in the outer tub of the washing tub than on the inside of the tub. Specifically, during the spin-drying operation, water moves from the washing tub to the outer tub due to centrifugal force. Some of this water remains in the outer tank without being discharged from the outer tank even after the operation ends. Some washing/drying machines have a narrow space between the washing tub and the outer tub, and have a structure (such as a labyrinth shape) that makes it difficult for air to enter between the washing tub and the outer tub to ensure drying performance. During drying operation, the temperature temporarily rises, and after the drying operation ends, the temperature decreases. Humidity increases as temperature decreases. Therefore, a high humidity environment is easily maintained in the space between the washing tub and the outer tub.

To prevent mold growth, it is effective to eliminate mold spores on a daily basis. Mold mainly grows through a repeating cycle of spores and hyphae. Explain the mechanism of mold formation in washing machines. First, mold spores enter the washing tub through the laundry and the air present in the space where the washing machine is installed, and settle in the washing tub or outer tub. The mold spores grow when the conditions of water, temperature, and nutrients are right. Specifically, spore germination and hyphal growth occur, and finally, mycelium is formed. Mycelium has the ability to produce new spores. Once mycelium is formed, spores continue to be dispersed into the washtub or outer tub, resulting in accelerated contamination. Incidentally, it can be said that mold has grown visually when this mycelium has grown.

The means to prevent the formation of this mycelium is to eradicate mold spores. For example, sterilization is performed by periodically cleaning the tank with hot water, or periodically cleaning the tank with chemicals such as chlorine. Methods that use hot water have issues such as increased water usage and operational noise. In addition, the method of using drugs has the problem of cost. Therefore, it is difficult to use the above means frequently. Furthermore, it is difficult to sterilize mold spores with the heat generated by drying operation.

Therefore, there is a technology called a tank clean course that is run at the end of the washing cycle to suppress the growth of mold. This technology suppresses mold in the washing tub and outer tub by using electrostatic atomization particles only by operating the air blower and electrostatic atomization generation means. This technology does not use chemicals or heat, so it has low running costs and can be operated every time after washing. However, when a blowing means is used, most of the electrostatic atomized particles that are carried by the wind and flowed into the washing tub are supplied only to the inside of the washing tub, making it difficult for them to be delivered to the outer tub where mold is likely to grow.

The present disclosure provides a washing machine that can deliver functional particles to the wall surface of the outer tub where mold is likely to grow by generating air flow by rotating the washing tub in a tub clean course and delivering functional particles.

Hereinafter, embodiments will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. However, more detailed explanation than necessary may be omitted. For example, detailed explanations of well-known matters or redundant explanations of substantially the same configurations may be omitted. This is to avoid making the following description unnecessarily redundant and to facilitate understanding by those skilled in the art.

The accompanying drawings and the following description are provided to help those skilled in the art fully understand the present disclosure, and are not intended to limit the subject matter recited in the claims.

(Embodiment)
A washing machine according to an embodiment of the present disclosure will be described.

[overall structure]
FIG. 1 is an external perspective view of a washer/dryer according to Embodiment 1 of the present disclosure. FIG. 2 is a longitudinal sectional view of the washer/dryer 1. FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of the washer/dryer 1. FIG. 4 is a block circuit diagram of the washer/dryer 1.

The washer/dryer 1 of this embodiment is a washing machine (so-called drum type washer/dryer) having a drying function. As shown in FIGS. 1 to 4, the washer/dryer 1 includes a housing 6, an outer tub 8, a washing tub 2, a motor 14, a heat pump unit 10, a ventilation path 23, a water supply valve 30, and a drainage It includes a valve 31, a functional particle supply means 3, a control means 25, and an operation display section 5.

<Housing>
As shown in FIG. 1, the housing 6 is a member that forms the appearance of the washer/dryer 1. The front surface of the housing 6 is provided with an opening 6a and a door 4 that can be opened and closed to cover the opening 6a.

<Outer tank>
As shown in FIG. 2, the outer tank 8 is a generally cylindrical member that is provided inside the housing 6 and has the function of storing washing water. The outer tank 8 has an opening at a position facing the opening 6a of the housing 6, and is connected to the opening 6a of the housing 6 in a sealed manner. The outer tank 8 is further provided with a plurality of

openings

33, 34 and a drain port 35. The

openings

33 and 34 are connected to the ventilation path 23, and the drain port 35 drains water from the outer tank 8 to the outside. The

openings

33 and 34 are provided in the upper part of the outer tank 8, and the drain port 35 is provided in the lower part of the outer tank 8.

As shown in FIG. 3, a downwardly recessed recess 39 is formed on the circumferential surface of the outer tank 8 above the drain port 35. The recess 39 communicates with the drain port 35 on the downstream side, and communicates with the washing tub 2 through an opening 38 formed in the circumferential surface of the outer tub 8 on the upstream side. Water flows into the recess 39 through the opening 38 and is finally discharged through the drain port 35. The upper part of the recess 39 is partially covered by the water stop rib 37 and is partially opened as an opening 38 . The water stop rib 37 is a member that protrudes from the inner wall surface of the outer tank 8 in the circumferential direction of the outer tank 8 . Specifically, the water stop rib 37 covers the upper part of the recess 39 on the downstream side (the left side in FIG. 3) during spin-drying rotation. With such a configuration, the water stop rib 37 can suppress the water that has flowed into the recess 39 from jumping out upward on the downstream side during dewatering, and can guide the water to flow to the drain port 35. On the other hand, the opening 38 may be formed by cutting out a part of the water stop rib 37.

<Washing tub>
Returning to FIG. 2, the washing tub 2 is a generally cylindrical member that is rotatably provided inside the outer tub 8 and accommodates laundry such as clothes. A large number of through holes 2a are formed in the washing tub 2. The through hole 2a allows the washing tub 2 and the outer tub 8 to communicate with each other, and allows water and air to move between the washing tub 2 and the outer tub 8. The washing tub 2 further has an opening at a position facing the opening 6a of the housing 6.

<Motor>
The motor 14 is a member that rotates the washing tub 2. The motor 14 rotates the washing tub 2 in forward and reverse directions. In this embodiment, the motor 14 is a belt-type motor that acts on the washing tub 2 via a pulley. Therefore, the number of rotations of the motor 14 and the number of rotations of the washing tub 2 may differ. On the other hand, the motor 14 may be another type of motor, such as a direct drive motor.

<Heat pump unit>
The heat pump unit 10 is a device that is disposed in the ventilation path 23 and dehumidifies and heats the air flowing through the ventilation path 23. The heat pump unit 10 is provided at the top of the housing 6.

The heat pump unit 10 includes, for example, a compressor, a throttle mechanism, a heating heat exchanger, a dehumidification heat exchanger, and refrigerant piping.

<Blowing route>
The ventilation path 23 is a flow path that is provided inside the housing 6 and circulates air between the outer tank 8 and the heat pump unit 10. The ventilation path 23 is a generally sealed system. One end of the ventilation path 23 is connected to an opening 33 of the outer tank 8 , and the other end of the ventilation path 23 is connected to an opening 34 of the outer tank 8 . In this embodiment, the opening 34 is provided on the back surface of the outer tank 8. The opening 34 may be provided on the front side of the outer tank 8 or on the circumferential surface of the outer tank 8. Similarly, the opening 33 may be provided on the front side of the outer tank 8, the back side of the outer tank 8, or the lower part of the outer tank 8.

<Blower fan>
The blower fan 11 is a mechanism such as a fan that generates air flow in the blower path 23 . The blower fan 11 generates a flow of air that circulates through the blower path 23 (see arrow F). The blower fan 11 is rotationally driven by a blower fan motor 13.

<Water supply valve>
The water supply valve 30 is a valve for supplying water to the outer tank 8. The water supply valve 30 is provided at the top of the housing 6.

<Drain valve>
The drain valve 31 is a valve for selectively draining water stored in the outer tank 8 through the drain port 35 of the outer tank 8. The drain valve 31 is provided at the bottom of the housing 6.

<Functional particle supply means>
The functional particle supply means 3 is a device that supplies functional particles. The functional particle supply means 3 is provided downstream of the ventilation fan 11 in the ventilation path 23 . The functional particle supply means 3 delivers functional particles to the outer tub 8 and the washing tub 2 through the ventilation path 23.

In this specification, functional particles are particles that can sterilize or suppress bacteria, viruses, pollen, and the like. Particles can be in solid, liquid or gaseous form. The functional particles may include substances such as charged particulate water, ions, and ozone. The functional particles can sterilize mold spores attached to the wall surface of the outer tank 8. Specifically, the functional particles are delivered to the wall surface of the outer tank 8 by the flow of air, so that mold spores attached to the wall surface of the outer tank 8 can be sterilized. Furthermore, the functional particles can sterilize mold spores adhering to the wall surface of the washing tub 2 and the clothes put into the washing tub 2.

In this embodiment, an electrostatic atomizer is used as the functional particle supply means 3 to generate charged fine water particles as functional particles. Charged microparticle water has a long life among functional particles. Therefore, more functional particles can be delivered to the wall surface of the outer tank 8 while maintaining the sterilization function (that is, not deactivated). Therefore, in the washer/dryer 1, the mold spore sterilization performance can be improved.

Alternatively, ions may be used as the functional particles, and an ion generator may be used as the functional particle supply means 3. Further, ozone may be used as the functional particles and an ozone generator may be used as the functional particle supply means 3.

<Control means>
The control means 25 is a member that controls the operation of the washer/dryer 1. The control means 25 includes, for example, a memory (not shown) storing a program and a processing circuit (not shown) corresponding to a processor such as a CPU, and functions as these elements when the processor executes the program. You may.

As shown in FIG. 4, the control means 25 controls the motor 14, the water supply valve 30, the drain valve 31, the heat pump unit 10, and the functional particle supply means 3 based on the information input through the operation display section 5. and controls the components of the washer/dryer 1 such as the blower fan motor 13.

<Operation display section>
The operation display section 5 is a mechanism that can be operated by the user of the washer/dryer 1. The operation display section 5 is arranged on the upper part of the casing 6, receives input from an input setting means (not shown) of the operation display section 5, and displays the input information on a display means (not shown) based on the input information for the user. Let me know.

[motion]
In the above configuration, an example of the operation of the washer/dryer 1 that executes the tank clean course will be described with reference to FIGS. 5 and 6. FIG. 5 is a process diagram of a washing operation and a tank clean course executed by the washer/dryer 1. FIG. 6 is an operational diagram of a washing operation and a tank clean course executed by the washer/dryer 1.

The user selects the laundry treatment course that he/she wishes to execute through the operation display section 5. For example, the user selects a laundry processing course of washing operation and tank clean course.

When the laundry treatment course is selected, the control means 25 sequentially executes the washing operation and the tank clean course. As shown in FIG. 5, the control means 25 executes a washing operation and executes a tank clean course after the washing operation is completed.

The control means 25 starts the washing operation after the user puts the laundry into the washing tub 2 and closes the door 4. The washing operation includes a washing process, a rinsing process, and a dehydration process. The control means 25 sequentially executes a washing process, a rinsing process, and a dehydration process. In the washing process, the control means 25 puts washing agent into the washing tub 2, supplies water, and rotates the washing tub 2 with the motor 14 to wash the laundry. In the rinsing process, the control means 25 supplies water and rotates the washing tub 2 to rinse the laundry. In the dewatering step, the control means 25 drains the washing water to the outside of the housing 6 and then rotates the washing tub 2 at high speed to dehydrate the laundry. On the other hand, the control means 25 may execute the dehydration process alone or in combination with other processes instead of the washing operation. By performing the dewatering process, it is possible to prevent the tank clean course from being performed in a state where water is accumulated in the washing tub 2.

After that, the control means 25 ends the washing operation.

When the washing operation is completed, the control means 25 automatically transitions to the tank clean course. When the process automatically changes to the tank clean course, the washer/dryer 1 enters the tank clean course standby state. In the tank clean course standby state, the user opens the door 4, takes out the laundry from the washing tub 2, and closes the door 4.

After that, the control means 25 starts a tank clean course. On the other hand, the control means 25 may operate the tank clean course as an individual course.

The tank clean course includes a drying process and a sterilization process. The control means 25 sequentially executes a drying process and a sterilization process. The drying process is a process performed to remove residual water in the outer tank 8 after the dehydration process. The sterilization process is a process performed to deliver functional particles to the wall surface of the outer tank 8.

First, the control means 25 executes a drying process. As shown in FIG. 5, in the drying process, the control means 25 operates the motor 14 and the blower fan 11. On the other hand, the control means 25 does not operate the functional particle supply means 3.

In the drying process, the washing tub 2 is rotated by operating the motor 14. When the washing tub 2 rotates, air flows in the ventilation path 23. Here, the air flow caused by the rotation of the washing tub 2 will be described in comparison with the air flow caused by the blower fan 11 with reference to FIGS. 2 and 7. FIG. 7 is a longitudinal sectional view of the washer/dryer 1 showing the flow of air due to the rotation of the washing tub 2. As shown in FIG.

As shown in FIG. 2, when the blower fan 11 rotates while the washing tub 2 is stationary, air flows into the washing tub 2 through the opening 34, passes through the upper part of the washing tub 2, and exits from the opening 33. It flows out (arrow F). Therefore, air is difficult to flow throughout the region R1 between the washing tub 2 and the outer tub 8. On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 7, when the washing tub 2 rotates, centrifugal force acts on the air inside the washing tub 2, and the air flows toward the outer tub 8 located outside the washing tub 2 through the through hole 2a. It flows as if flowing out (arrow C). Since the air flows out due to centrifugal force, the air also flows into the region R1 remote from the opening 34. That is, the rotation of the washing tub 2 makes it easier for air to flow over the entire region R1, and makes it easier to hit the wall surface (for example, the wall surface of the outer tub 8) forming the region R1. Therefore, by rotating the washing tub 2, the wall surface constituting the region R1 can be efficiently dried.

When the air flows out of the washing tub 2, negative pressure is formed in the washing tub 2, and air flows into the washing tub 2 from the ventilation path 23. As described above, the rotation of the washing tub 2 generates a flow of air that circulates through the ventilation path 23.

By further operating the blower fan 11, the flow of air in the blower path 23 can be further promoted.

Returning to FIGS. 5 and 6, the drying process more specifically includes a room temperature blowing process and a heating blowing process. The room temperature blowing process and the heating blowing process differ in terms of ON/OFF of the heat pump unit 10.

The room temperature blowing process corresponds to the start-up time of the heat pump unit 10. The heat pump unit 10 requires start-up time until it is turned on. This is because, when the ambient temperature is low, the performance of the heat pump unit 10 may not be exhibited as specified. During the rise time, for example, the compressor of the heat pump unit 10 is rotated at a low speed or only energized to raise the refrigerant temperature to a predetermined temperature or higher. Thereby, the performance of the heat pump unit 10 can be exhibited as specified. As shown in FIG. 6, in the room temperature blowing process, the control means 25 operates the blowing fan 11 and the motor 14. In other words, the control means 25 operates the blower fan 11 and the motor 14 during the startup time of the heat pump unit 10. On the other hand, the control means 25 does not operate the functional particle supply means 3 and the heat pump unit 10. In addition, the control means 25 may operate the functional particle supply means 3 in the normal temperature air blowing process.

Subsequently, in the heating and blowing step, the control means 25 operates the heat pump unit 10, the blower fan 11, and the motor 14. On the other hand, the control means 25 does not operate the functional particle supply means 3.

When operating the heat pump unit 10, the control means 25 simultaneously operates the blower fan 11. The air flowing out from the washing tub 2 into the ventilation path 23 is cooled and heated, and then the air circulation is promoted by the ventilation fan 11 in order to cause the air to flow into the washing tub 2 again.

In other words, in the drying process, the control means 25 delays the start of operation of the heat pump unit 10 with respect to the start of operation of the ventilation fan 11 and the motor 14. That is, in the drying process, the control means 25 provides a standby time during which the heat pump unit 10 does not operate and is on standby between the start of operation of the ventilation fan 11 and the start of operation of the heat pump unit 10.

The normal temperature blowing process is shorter than the heating blowing process. Specifically, the room temperature blowing process takes 3 minutes, and the heating blowing process takes 27 minutes. Therefore, the drying process takes a total of 30 minutes. On the other hand, the time of the normal temperature blowing step and the heating blowing step may be arbitrarily set predetermined times.

In the present embodiment, the control means 25 continuously operates the blower fan 11 and the motor 14 in the drying process. As will be described later (see FIG. 9), the air in the washing tub 2 is guided to the outer tub 8 by the rotation of the motor 14, that is, the rotation of the washing tub 2. This continuous operation allows air to be continuously delivered to the outer tank 8. Therefore, the remaining water in the outer tank 8 can be removed in a shorter time than when the motor 14 is driven intermittently.

Additionally, by moving to the sterilization process immediately after the drying process, it is possible to suppress the drop in temperature and the rise in humidity. Therefore, the state in which residual water around the mold spores in the outer tank 8 is removed can be maintained.

By removing the remaining water in the outer tank 8 and maintaining the state in which the remaining water is removed, it is possible to reduce the amount of functional particles that collide with the remaining water and become deactivated in the subsequent sterilization process.

FIG. 8A is a schematic diagram of mold spores V1 attached to the outer tank 8 before drying. FIG. 8B is a schematic diagram of mold spores V1 attached to the outer tank 8 after drying.

As shown in FIG. 8A, before the drying process, the mold spores V1 attached to the outer tank 8 are covered with water droplets W1. Therefore, the functional particles collide with the water droplet W1 instead of the mold spore V1, and are deactivated before reaching the mold spore V1. As shown in FIG. 8B, after the drying process, the water droplets W1 in the outer tank 8 have become smaller. Therefore, the functional particles can avoid collision with the water droplets W1 and reach the mold spores V1 while maintaining their sterilization function (that is, not inactivated). The functional particles can directly act on mold spores V1.

Subsequently, the control means 25 executes a sterilization process. In the sterilization process, the control means 25 operates the motor 14 and the functional particle supply means 3. The control means 25 maintains the rotational direction and rotational speed of the motor 14 operating in the drying process, that is, the rotational direction and rotational speed of the washing tub 2, and continuously operates the motor 14. On the other hand, the control means 25 stops the blower fan 11 and the heat pump unit 10.

In the sterilization process, since the motor 14 and the functional particle supply means 3 are operated, the air flow caused by the rotation of the motor 14 (i.e., the washing tub 2) contains functional particles. Since the functional particles flow out together with air due to centrifugal force, the functional particles also flow into the region R1 away from the opening 34 (see arrow C in FIG. 7). That is, the rotation of the washing tub 2 makes it easier for the functional particles to flow over the entire region R1, making it easier for them to hit the wall surface (for example, the wall surface of the outer tub 8) that constitutes the region R1. Therefore, by rotating the washing tub 2, the wall surface constituting the region R1 can be efficiently sterilized.

In the sterilization process, the control means 25 stops the blower fan 11. When the blower fan 11 operates, air flows from the blower path 23 through the opening 34 and into the outer tank 8 . Due to the pressure difference created by the operation of the blower fan 11, this air preferentially passes through the washing tub 2 and flows out from the opening 33. Air is less likely to hit the wall surface of the outer tank 8 at a position away from the

openings

33, 34. Therefore, the functional particles are also less likely to hit the wall surface of the outer tank 8.

Further, the amount of air blown by the blower fan 11 is larger than the amount of air blown by the rotation of the washing tub 2. When the ventilation fan 11 operates, the number of functional particles that collide with the wall surface of the ventilation path 23 and are deactivated increases. Therefore, the number of functional particles that maintain the sterilization function decreases.

Therefore, by stopping the blower fan 11, more functional particles that maintain the sterilizing function can be delivered to the wall surface of the outer tank 8. In addition, by stopping the blower fan 11, the operating noise during the sterilization process can be suppressed.

In the sterilization process, the control means 25 stops the heat pump unit 10. When the heat pump unit 10 operates, the air within the ventilation path 23 is heated. Heating the air increases the entropy of the functional particles. As a result, the functional particles are likely to be deactivated before being delivered to the outer tank 8.

Therefore, by stopping the heat pump unit 10, more functional particles that maintain the sterilization function can be delivered to the wall surface of the outer tank 8. In addition, by stopping the heat pump unit 10, the energy consumption of the washer/dryer 1 in the tank clean course can be saved.

In this embodiment, the washing tub 2 rotates in one direction in the sterilization process. Such an operation can suppress reversal of the motor 14 and suppress deceleration of the motor 14. By suppressing the deceleration of the motor 14, the flow of air toward the outer tank 8 can be maintained, and more functional particles can be delivered to the wall surface of the outer tank 8. On the other hand, the rotation direction of the washing tub 2 may be reversed. By such an operation, the functional particles can be evenly delivered to the entire region R1.

Furthermore, in the sterilization process, the rotation direction of the washing tub 2 is the same as the rotation direction (arrow B shown in FIG. 3) in the dehydration process. Specifically, the rotation direction of the washing tub 2 in the sterilization process and the dehydration process is opposite to the direction in which the water stop ribs 37 extend.

Further, the rotation direction of the washing tub 2 in the sterilization process is the same as the rotation direction of the washing tub 2 in the drying process. Therefore, the motor 14 can be operated continuously without having to stop for reversing between the drying process and the sterilization process.

Since the upper part of the recess 39 is covered by the water stop rib 37, it is relatively difficult for air to flow in from outside the recess 39, and the air inside the recess 39 tends to stagnate. On the other hand, in the sterilization process and the drying process, since the rotation direction of the washing tub 2 is opposite to the direction in which the water stop rib 37 extends, air easily flows into the recess 39 from the opening 38. Therefore, in the drying process, the entire outer tank 8 can be dried, and in the sterilization process, the functional particles can be applied to the wall surface of the entire outer tank 8.

Although this embodiment assumes that the rotation direction of the washing tub 2 is rightward, it is of course possible to rotate it leftward as appropriate.

In the sterilization process, the rotation speed of the washing tub 2 is lower than the rotation speed (for example, 1000 rpm) in the dehydration process. By lowering the rotation speed of the washing tub 2, the load on the motor 14, noise, and running costs can be reduced.

Here, the rotation speed of the washing tub 2 in the sterilization process will be explained in more detail with reference to FIG. 9. FIG. 9 is a diagram showing the delivery efficiency of functional particles in the outer tank 8 of the washer/dryer 1.

An evaluation was conducted to clarify the relationship between the rotation speed of the washing tub 2 and the delivery amount ratio of functional particles. The evaluation sample used was a substance that was decomposed by a chemical reaction with the functional particles, resulting in a change in the absorption spectrum of the substance. The chemical reaction is, for example, a redox reaction. In the evaluation test, a plurality of evaluation samples were arranged on the wall surface constituting region R1, and the sterilization process was performed at different rotation speeds of the washing tub 2.

The amount of reaction between the evaluation sample and the functional particles can be determined by detecting a color difference caused by a change in the absorption spectrum. By comparing the color difference ΔE of the evaluation sample before and after the sterilization process, it was possible to compare the amount of functional particles delivered at different rotation speeds. The color difference ΔE is determined by the lightness L ₀ of the pre-motion evaluation cloth obtained as a measurement value, the lightness L ₁ of the post-motion evaluation cloth, the color coordinate a ₀ of the pre-motion evaluation cloth, and the color coordinate a ₁ of the post-motion evaluation cloth. , the color coordinate b ₀ of the pre-motion evaluation cloth, and the color coordinate b ₁ of the post-motion evaluation cloth, and are determined by equations (1) to (4).

ΔE=√(ΔL ² +Δa ² +Δb ² ) (1)
ΔL=L ₀ -L ₁ (2)
Δa=a ₀ -a ₁ (3)
Δb=b ₀ - _{b 1} (4)
The functional particle delivery amount ratio A to the outer tank 8 is determined by the following equation (5) using the color difference ΔE _x at a predetermined rotation speed x and the color difference ΔE ₃₅ at a rotation speed of 35 rpm.

A=ΔE _x /ΔE ₃₅ (5)
As shown in FIG. 9, when the rotation speed is 20 rpm or more, sufficient centrifugal force promotes the flow of air and functional particles passing through the through holes 2a. With the rotation speed of 100 rpm or less, centrifugal force can be appropriately maintained, and functional particles can be prevented from colliding with the wall surface of the ventilation path 23 and being deactivated. Further, it was found that the ratio A of the amount of functional particles delivered to the outer tank 8 was maximum at 35 rpm. Therefore, the rotation speed of the washing tub 2 in the sterilization process may be 20 rpm or more and 100 rpm or less, and is preferably 35 rpm.

The evaluation test shown in FIG. 9 confirmed the conditions under which the amount of functional particles delivered was high. This condition can be rephrased as a condition in which the amount of air containing functional particles delivered is high. Accordingly, the evaluation test shown in FIG. 9 confirmed conditions under which the amount of air delivered to region R1 was high in the drying process.

Returning to FIGS. 5 and 6, the number of rotations of the washing tub 2 during the sterilization process is the same as the number of rotations of the washing tub 2 during the drying process. Therefore, the washing tub 2 can be operated continuously at a constant speed without slowing down between the drying process and the sterilization process.

The sterilization process is longer than the drying process, for example, 150 minutes. By such an operation, 99% of mold spores in the outer tank 8 can be sterilized. Furthermore, by continuously operating the functional particle supply means 3 to circulate inside the washer/dryer 1, the concentration of functional particles in the outer tank 8 can be increased and a high concentration state can be maintained. .

After 150 minutes from the start of the sterilization process, the control means 25 automatically turns off the power to the washer/dryer 1.

[Effect 1]
According to the washer/dryer 1 according to the embodiment, the following effects can be achieved.

As described above, the washer/dryer 1 of the present embodiment includes a washing tub 2 for storing laundry, and an outer tub 8 in which the washing tub 2 is rotatably housed. The washer/dryer 1 includes a motor 14 that rotates the washing tub 2 and a water supply means (water supply valve 30) that supplies washing water to the outer tub 8. The washer/dryer 1 includes a ventilation path 23 that can supply air into the outer tank 8, and a functional particle supply means 3 that is arranged in the ventilation path 23 and supplies functional particles into the outer tank. The washer/dryer 1 includes a motor 14 and a control means 25 that controls the operation of the functional particle supply means 3. The control means 25 operates the motor 14 and the functional particle supply means 3 to execute a tank clean course (sterilization process) in which the washing tub 2 and the outer tank 8 are sterilized.

With such a configuration, when the washing tub 2 rotates, centrifugal force acts on the air and functional particles, and the air and functional particles flow to the outside of the washing tub 2. Therefore, the functional particles can be easily delivered to the wall surface of the outer tank 8, and mold spores attached to the wall surface of the outer tank 8 can be sterilized. Therefore, in the washer/dryer 1, the mold spore sterilization performance in the outer tank 8 can be improved.

In the washer/dryer 1 of this embodiment, the rotation speed of the washing tub 2 during the sterilization process is lower than the rotation speed of the washing tub 2 during the dehydration process of dehydrating laundry.

With such a configuration, the load on the motor 14 can be reduced while ensuring sufficient centrifugal force to deliver the functional particles to the outer tank 8. Therefore, it becomes possible to carry out a long sterilization process.

In the washer/dryer 1 of this embodiment, the rotation speed of the washing tub 2 during the sterilization process is 20 rpm or more and 100 rpm or less.

With such a configuration, more functional particles that maintain the sterilizing function can be delivered to the outer tank 8.

The washer/dryer 1 of the present embodiment further includes a blowing means (blow fan 11) arranged in the blowing path 23 and blowing air. The control means 25 stops the blower fan 11 in the sterilization process.

With such a configuration, compared to the case where the ventilation fan 11 is driven, there is no pressure difference in the ventilation path 23, so air and functional particles are difficult to be sucked into the ventilation path 23 from the opening 33, and the ventilation path 23 It becomes easier to flow into the outer tank 8 which is away from the water. Therefore, more functional particles can be delivered to the wall surface of the outer tank 8.

In the washer/dryer 1 of this embodiment, the rotation direction of the washing tub 2 in the sterilization process is the same direction as the rotation direction of the washing tub 2 in the dehydration process of dehydrating the laundry.

With such a configuration, by making the rotation direction the same, the flow of water in the dehydration process and the flow of functional particles in the sterilization process can be made the same. Therefore, the functional particles can be applied to areas where water is likely to adhere and where mold is likely to grow.

In the washer/dryer 1 of this embodiment, a recess 39 in which a drain port 35 is provided is formed in the lower part of the outer tub 8. The outer tank 8 has a protrusion (water stop rib 37) that extends in the circumferential direction of the outer tank 8 and covers a part of the upper part of the recess 39. The rotation direction of the washing tub 2 in the sterilization process is opposite to the direction in which the water stop ribs 37 extend.

With such a configuration, it is possible to promote the inflow of air into the recesses 39 where it is difficult for air to flow in from the outside, and to efficiently deliver functional particles to the recesses 39.

In the washer/dryer 1 of this embodiment, the functional particle supply means 3 is an electrostatic atomizer, and the functional particles are charged fine water particles.

With such a configuration, mold spores can be sterilized.

The washer/dryer 1 of this embodiment includes a washing machine and a heating means (heat pump unit 10) that heats air.

With such a configuration, the inside of the washer/dryer 1 can be efficiently dried.

The method for sterilizing the outer tub 8 of the washer/dryer 1 of this embodiment is a washing machine (washer/dryer This is a method of sterilizing the outer tank 8 of 1). The method is such that the control means 25 that controls the operation of the washer/dryer 1 operates the motor 14 that rotates the washing tub 2 and the functional particle supply means 3 that supplies functional particles into the outer tub 8. A tank clean course for sterilizing the washing tub 2 and the outer tub 8 is executed.

With such a configuration, when the washing tub 2 rotates, air and functional particles flow to the outside of the washing tub 2. Therefore, the functional particles can be easily delivered to the wall surface of the outer tank 8, and mold spores attached to the wall surface of the outer tank 8 can be sterilized.

[Effect 2]
As described above, the washer/dryer 1 of the present embodiment includes a washing tub 2 for storing laundry, an outer tub 8 in which the washing tub 2 is rotatably installed, and a motor 14 for rotating the washing tub 2. have The washer/dryer 1 includes a functional particle supply means 3 that supplies functional particles into an outer tank, and a control means 25 that controls the operation of the motor 14 and the functional particle supply means 3. The control means 25 executes a tank clean course. The tank clean course includes a sterilization process in which the motor 14 and the functional particle supply means 3 are operated, and a drying process in which the motor 14 is operated before the sterilization process.

With such a configuration, before operating the functional particle supply means 3, the washing tub 2 is rotated to generate a flow of air toward the outer tub 8, thereby drying the outer tub 8. The amount of attached moisture can be reduced. Therefore, in the sterilization process following the drying process, it is possible to suppress the functional particles from colliding with the remaining water in the outer tank 8 and being deactivated. Therefore, in the washer/dryer 1, the mold spore sterilization performance in the outer tank 8 can be improved.

The washer/dryer 1 of the present embodiment includes a ventilation path 23 that allows air to flow into the outer tub 8, a heating means (heat pump unit 10) disposed in the ventilation path 23 and that heats the air, and a heating device (heat pump unit 10) arranged in the ventilation path 23 to A blowing means (blow fan 11) is arranged and blows air. The control means 25 operates the heat pump unit 10 and the ventilation fan 11 for a predetermined period of time in the drying process.

With such a configuration, by operating the heat pump unit 10 and the ventilation fan 11 before operating the functional particle supply means 3, the amount of water adhering to the outer tank 8 can be reduced with higher efficiency. can.

In the washer/dryer 1 of this embodiment, the direction of rotation of the washing tub 2 in the drying process and the direction of rotation of the washing tub 2 in the sterilization process are the same.

With such a configuration, deceleration of the motor 14 that occurs when the motor 14 reverses can be avoided.

In the washer/dryer 1 of this embodiment, the number of rotations of the washing tub 2 in the drying process and the number of rotations of the washing tub 2 in the sterilization process are the same.

With such a configuration, in the drying process as well as in the sterilization process, the efficiency of blowing air to the outer tank 8 can be improved, and the rotation speed can be set to reduce the load on the motor 14.

In the washer/dryer 1 of this embodiment, after the blower fan 11 is driven in the drying process, the heat pump unit 10 is operated after the standby time has elapsed.

With such a configuration, even during the start-up time of the heat pump unit 10, dry air in the ventilation path 23 can be sent into the washing tub 2 and residual water can be removed, so the start-up time can be effectively utilized.

In the washer/dryer 1 of this embodiment, the control means 25 stops the heat pump unit 10 and the ventilation fan 11 in the sterilization process.

With such a configuration, more functional particles can be delivered to the wall surface of the outer tank 8 that is away from the ventilation path 23. Furthermore, more functional particles that maintain their sterilizing function can be delivered.

In the washer/dryer 1 of this embodiment, the control means 25 stops the functional particle supply means 3 during the drying process.

With such a configuration, functional particles can be supplied after removing residual water in the outer tank 8. Therefore, the load on the functional particle supply means 3 can be reduced while suppressing the functional particles from colliding with residual water in the outer tank 8 and being deactivated.

A method for sterilizing an outer tub 8 of a washer/dryer 1 according to the present embodiment is a washing machine (a washer/dryer This is a method of sterilizing the outer tank 8 of 1). The method includes a sterilization step in which a control means 25 that controls the operation of the washer/dryer 1 operates a motor 14 that rotates the washing tub 2 and a functional particle supply means 3 that supplies functional particles into the outer tub 8. including. The method includes a drying step in which the control means 25 operates the motor 14 before the sterilization step.

With such a configuration, by rotating the washing tub 2 before operating the functional particle supply means 3, the outer tub 8 can be dried and the amount of water adhering to the outer tub 8 can be reduced.

Note that although the washer/dryer 1 has been described in this embodiment, the present invention is not limited thereto. The washer/dryer may be one that can wash laundry. The washing machine may have only the function of washing laundry. Further, the washer/dryer may be a clothes dryer having only the function of drying clothes.

Note that in this embodiment, an example in which the washer/dryer 1 has the operation display section 5 has been described, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the washer/dryer 1, the server, and a communication terminal may be connected via an Internet line, and the user may input settings using an application on the communication terminal.

Note that in this embodiment, an example has been described in which the control means 25 executes the laundry processing course input by the user, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the control means 25 may execute a laundry treatment course that is downloaded from the server to the washer/dryer 1.

Note that in this embodiment, an example has been described in which the washer/dryer 1 has the ventilation path 23 that circulates air, but the invention is not limited to this. The washing/drying machine 1 may be any machine as long as it can dry laundry. The washer/dryer 1 may have an exhaust path through which air passes in one direction. On the other hand, if the washer/dryer 1 has the air passage 23 for circulating air, the generated functional particles can be circulated inside the washer/dryer 1. Therefore, the inside of the washer/dryer 1 can be efficiently sterilized.

Furthermore, in this embodiment, an example has been described in which the functional particle supply means 3 is disposed downstream of the blower fan 11 in the blower path 23, but the present invention is not limited thereto. The functional particle supply means 3 only needs to be placed at a position where the functional particles can be delivered to the outer tank 8. For example, the functional particle supply means 3 may be disposed on the door 4. In this case, by bringing the functional particle supply means 3 closer to the washing tub 2, the functional particles can be delivered more efficiently to the walls of the washing tub 2 and the outer tub 8. However, if the functional particle supply means 3 is arranged downstream of the blower fan 11 in the ventilation path 23, it is possible to prevent the detergent from splashing bubbles or water to the functional particle supply means 3. 3 failures can be suppressed.

Note that in this embodiment, an example has been described in which the tank clean course includes a drying process and a sterilization process, but the present invention is not limited to this. The tank clean course only needs to include a sterilization process.

Note that in this embodiment, the time, content, order, and number of steps in the tank clean course are merely examples. If necessary, it is possible to select the time, change the order of the steps, and increase the number of steps or the number of steps.

Note that in this embodiment, an example has been described in which the tank clean course is executed after the washing operation, but the present invention is not limited to this. The bath clean course may be performed after the drying operation, or may be performed alone without the washing operation.

Note that in this embodiment, an example has been described in which the laundry is taken out from the washer/dryer 1 before the tank clean course, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the tank clean course may be executed before taking out the laundry or after loading the laundry. Through such an operation, the functional particles can be applied to the laundry to sterilize the laundry. On the other hand, if the tank clean course is executed after taking out the laundry, the functional particles can efficiently reach the wall surface of the outer tub 8 without hitting the laundry.

Note that in this embodiment, an example has been described in which the functional particle supply means 3 is operated continuously in the sterilization process, but the present invention is not limited to this. In the sterilization process, the functional particle supply means 3 may be operated intermittently.

Note that in this embodiment, an example in which the blower fan 11 is stopped in the sterilization process has been described, but the present invention is not limited to this. In the sterilization process, the blower fan 11 may be operated temporarily or continuously.

Note that in this embodiment, an example in which the heat pump unit 10 is stopped in the sterilization process has been described, but the present invention is not limited to this. In the sterilization process, the heat pump unit 10 may be operated temporarily or continuously.

Note that in this embodiment, an example has been described in which the motor 14 rotates in one direction during the sterilization process, but the invention is not limited to this. In the sterilization process, the rotation direction of the motor 14 may be reversed.

Note that in this embodiment, an example has been described in which the functional particle supply means 3 is stopped in the drying process, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the functional particle supply means 3 may operate during the drying process.

The washing machine in the first aspect includes a washing tub that stores laundry, an outer tub in which the washing tub is rotatably installed, a casing that elastically supports the outer tub, a motor that rotates the washing tub, and a A functional particle supply means for supplying particles into the outer tank; and a control means for controlling the operation of the motor and the functional particle supply means; the control means executes a tank clean course; The method includes a sterilization step in which a motor and a functional particle supply means are operated, and a drying step in which the motor is operated before the sterilization step.

As a washing machine according to a second aspect, in the washing machine according to the first aspect, a ventilation path that allows air to flow into the outer tub, a heating means arranged in the ventilation path and heating the air, and a heating means arranged in the ventilation path. and a blowing means for blowing air, and the control means operates the heating means and the blowing means for a predetermined period of time in the drying process.

As the washing machine in the third aspect, in the washing machine in the second aspect, the rotation direction of the washing tub in the drying process and the rotation direction of the washing tub in the sterilization process are the same.

In the washing machine of the fourth aspect, the number of rotations of the washing tub in the drying process and the number of rotations of the washing tub in the sterilization process are the same in the washing machine in the second or third aspect.

As the washing machine according to the fifth aspect, in the washing machine according to any one of the second to fourth aspects, after the blowing means is driven in the drying process, the heating means is operated when the standby time has elapsed.

In the washing machine according to any one of the second to fifth aspects as the washing machine according to the sixth aspect, the control means stops the heating means and the blowing means in the sterilization process.

In the washing machine according to any one of the second to sixth aspects as the washing machine according to the seventh aspect, the control means stops the functional particle supply means in the drying process.

As the washing machine according to the eighth aspect, in the washing machine according to any one of the first to seventh aspects, the rotation direction of the washing tub in the tub clean course is the same as the rotation direction of the washing tub in the dehydration step of dehydrating laundry. It is the direction.

As a washing machine according to a ninth aspect, in the washing machine according to any one of the first to eighth aspects, a recess in which a drain port is provided is formed in the lower part of the outer tub, and the outer tub is arranged in a circumferential direction of the outer tub. The washing tub has a protrusion extending to cover a part of the upper part of the recess, and the rotation direction of the washing tub in the tub clean course is opposite to the direction in which the protrusion extends.

A method for sterilizing an outer tub of a washing machine according to a tenth aspect is a method for sterilizing an outer tub of a washing machine, which includes a washing tub for storing laundry and an outer tub in which the washing tub is rotatably installed. The control means for controlling the operation of the washing machine operates the sterilization step for operating the motor for rotating the washing tub and the functional particle supply means for supplying functional particles into the outer tub; It includes a drying step of operating a motor before the bacteria step.

Although this disclosure has been fully described with reference to preferred embodiments and with reference to the accompanying drawings, various variations and modifications will become apparent to those skilled in the art. It is to be understood that such variations and modifications are included insofar as they do not depart from the scope of the invention according to the appended claims.

The washing machine of the present disclosure is useful as a washer/dryer for home use, a washer/dryer for commercial use, or any type of washer/dryer (eg, a drum type washer/dryer for home use).

1 Washing/drying machine (drying machine)
2 Washing tub 3 Functional particle supply means 4 Door 5 Operation display section 6 Housing 8 Outer tank 10 Heat pump unit 11 Blow fan 13 Blow fan motor 14 Motor 23 Blow route 25 Control means 30 Water supply valve 31 Drain valve 33 Opening 34 Opening 35 Drain port 38 Opening 39 Recess 37 Water stop rib

Claims

a washing tub for storing laundry;
an outer tub in which the washing tub is rotatably installed;
a motor that rotates the washing tub;
Functional particle supply means for supplying functional particles into the outer tank;
A control means for controlling the operation of the motor and the functional particle supply means,
The control means executes a tank clean course,
The tank clean course includes a sterilization step in which the motor and the functional particle supply means are operated, and a drying step in which the motor is operated before the sterilization step.
a ventilation path that allows air to flow into the outer tank;
a heating means arranged in the ventilation path and heating the air;
A blowing means arranged in the blowing path and blowing air,
The washing machine according to claim 1, wherein the control means operates the heating means and the blowing means for a predetermined period of time in the drying step.
The washing machine according to claim 2, wherein the direction of rotation of the washing tub in the drying step and the direction of rotation of the washing tub in the sterilization step are the same.
The washing machine according to claim 2, wherein the rotation speed of the washing tub in the drying step and the rotation speed of the washing tub in the sterilization step are the same.
The washing machine according to claim 2, wherein in the drying step, after a standby time has elapsed after driving the air blowing means, the heating means is operated.
The washing machine according to claim 2, wherein the control means stops the heating means and the blowing means in the sterilization step.
The washing machine according to claim 2, wherein the control means stops the functional particle supply means in the drying step.
The washing machine according to claim 1, wherein the rotational direction of the washing tub in the tub clean course is the same as the rotational direction of the washing tub in a dehydration step of dehydrating laundry.
A recessed portion in which a drainage port is provided is formed in the lower part of the outer tank,
The outer tank has a protrusion that extends in the circumferential direction of the outer tank and covers a part of the upper part of the recess,
The washing machine according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the rotation direction of the washing tub in the tub clean course is opposite to the direction in which the protrusion extends.
A method for sterilizing an outer tub of a washing machine comprising a washing tub for storing laundry and an outer tub rotatably containing the washing tub, the method comprising:
a sterilization step in which a control means for controlling the operation of the washing machine operates a motor for rotating the washing tub and a functional particle supply means for supplying functional particles into the outer tub;
A method for sterilizing an outer tub of a washing machine, the method comprising: a drying step in which the control means operates the motor before the sterilization step.