Clothes processing device

Abstract

The present invention provides a laundry treatment device capable of compactly housing legs for enabling a box to stand independently on the side of the box. The laundry treatment device of the present invention includes a box for storing a laundry treatment agent for treating laundry, the box including a box body constituting the main body of the box and legs for enabling the box body to stand independently, the legs being arranged to slide relative to the box body.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a clothes processing device. Background Art

[0002] In recent years, a washing machine, which is an example of a clothing treatment device that applies a prescribed treatment to clothing, has been developed with a structure having an automatic dispensing unit as described below. That is, in order to meet the user's desire for improved convenience, multiple usage amounts of clothing treatment agents, such as detergent or softener, are stored in advance in a box for automatic dispensing. During operation, the required amount is automatically dispensed from the box into the water tank using the automatic dispensing unit. In addition, in such a washing machine, for example, when replenishing the clothing treatment agent in the box, it is required that the box, which has been removed from the washing machine, be self-supporting in a stable state. Therefore, a structure for allowing the box, which has been removed from the washing machine, to be self-supporting in a stable state has been considered. For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a structure having auxiliary legs for allowing the box to be self-supporting in a stable state.

[0003] Prior art literature

[0004] Patent Literature

[0005] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2002-159788

[0006] However, in conventional configurations, the auxiliary legs are rotatably supported on the outside of the inclined portion of the lower housing. Consequently, even when the auxiliary legs are stored in the housing, the legs and the support portions supporting them are located outside the housing. This requires space to accommodate these legs and the support portions on the housing side. This results in an increased size of the housing, and consequently, an increased size of the washing machine as a whole.

[0007] Therefore, this embodiment provides a clothes processing apparatus capable of compactly storing the legs for making the box stand on its own on the box side. Summary of the Invention

[0008] The clothes treating device of the present invention is a clothes treating device having a box for storing clothes treating agent for treating clothes, wherein the box has a box body constituting the main body of the box and legs for making the box body stand independently, and the legs are arranged to be slidable relative to the box body.

[0009] According to the above configuration, the legs for making the box self-standing can be compactly accommodated on the box side. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0010] Figure 1 It is a longitudinal sectional side view schematically showing a configuration example of the washing machine according to the first embodiment.

[0011] Figure 2 This is a diagram schematically showing a configuration example of a water supply unit according to the first embodiment.

[0012] Figure 3 This is a longitudinal sectional front view schematically illustrating an example configuration of the cartridge housing portion and its surroundings according to the first embodiment, and showing an example of a state in which the softener cartridge is installed in the cartridge housing portion.

[0013] Figure 4 This is a longitudinal sectional front view schematically illustrating an example configuration of the cartridge housing portion and its surroundings according to the first embodiment, and showing an example state in which the softener cartridge is removed from the cartridge housing portion.

[0014] Figure 5 This is a perspective view schematically illustrating a configuration example of the softener box according to the first embodiment, and showing an example of a state in which the leg portion slides to a storage position.

[0015] Figure 6 This is a perspective view schematically illustrating a configuration example of the softener box according to the first embodiment, and showing an example of a state in which the leg portion slides to a self-standing position.

[0016] Figure 7 It is a perspective view schematically showing a configuration example of a leg portion according to the first embodiment.

[0017] Figure 8 This is a perspective view schematically showing a configuration example of the box body of the softener box according to the first embodiment from the front side.

[0018] Figure 9 This is a perspective view schematically showing a configuration example of the box body of the softener box according to the first embodiment from the rear side.

[0019] Figure 10 It is a longitudinal sectional side view schematically illustrating a configuration example of the locking portion of the softener cartridge according to the first embodiment, and showing an example of a state in which the leg portion is slid to the storage position.

[0020] Figure 11 It is a longitudinal sectional side view schematically illustrating a configuration example of the locking portion of the softener cartridge according to the first embodiment, and showing an example of a state in which the leg portion slides to a self-standing position.

[0021] Figure 12 This is a front view schematically illustrating a configuration example of the softener box according to the first embodiment, and showing an example of a state in which the leg portion slides to a self-standing position.

[0022] Figure 13This is a side view schematically illustrating a configuration example of the softener box according to the second embodiment, and showing an example of a state in which the leg portion slides to a storage position.

[0023] Figure 14 This is a side view schematically illustrating a configuration example of the softener box according to the second embodiment, and showing an example of a state in which the leg portion slides to a self-standing position.

[0024] Figure 15 It is an exploded perspective view schematically illustrating a configuration example of a softener cartridge according to the second embodiment.

[0025] Figure 16 This is a side view schematically illustrating a configuration example of the softener box according to the third embodiment, and showing an example of a state in which the leg portion slides to a storage position.

[0026] Figure 17 This is a side view schematically illustrating a configuration example of the softener box according to the third embodiment, and showing an example of a state in which the leg portion slides to a self-standing position.

[0027] Figure 18 This is a longitudinal sectional rear view schematically illustrating a configuration example of a locking portion of a softener cartridge according to a third embodiment, and showing an example of a state in which a leg portion is slid to a storage position.

[0028] Figure 19 This is a longitudinal sectional rear view schematically illustrating a configuration example of a locking portion of a softener cartridge according to a third embodiment, and showing an example of a state in which the leg portion has slid to a self-standing position.

[0029] Description of Reference Numerals

[0030] In the accompanying drawings, 1 represents a washing machine (clothing processing device), 3 represents a washing tank (clothing processing tank), 11 represents an automatic feeding part, 16 represents a softener box (box), 20 represents a box storage part, 22 represents a bulging part (pressing part), 101 represents a box body part, 101B represents a guide rail part, 101C represents a locking part, 102 represents a foot part, 102B represents a corner part, 110 represents a gripping part, 111 represents an outflow hole, 200 represents a locking part, and 303 represents a locking part. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0031] Hereinafter, with reference to the accompanying drawings, a plurality of embodiments of the laundry processing apparatus will be described. In addition, substantially the same configurations in the plurality of embodiments will be denoted by the same reference numerals, and their description will be omitted.

[0032] (First embodiment)

[0033] Figure 1The illustrated washing machine 1 is an example of a laundry processing device capable of performing predetermined treatments on laundry. In this case, the predetermined treatments include at least washing, rinsing, and dehydration. Washing machine 1 is a so-called drum-type washing machine in which the rotation axis of the rotary drum extends horizontally or in a direction inclined relative to the horizontal direction.

[0034] Washing machine 1 includes a washing tank 3 for washing clothes within a rectangular outer box 2, which forms its outer contour. Washing tank 3 is an example of a laundry treatment tank and comprises a rotatable, cylindrical drum within a bottomed cylindrical water tank. The drum has multiple small holes on its circumference, and a baffle is provided on its inner circumference to push clothes up. The front opening of washing tank 3 is openable and closable via a door 5 provided on the front surface of outer box 2. By opening door 5, the user can load and remove clothes from washing tank 3 through the front opening.

[0035] Washing machine 1 also includes a water supply unit 4 for supplying water to washing tub 3, and a drain unit 6 for draining the water from washing tub 3 to the outside of the washing machine. Water supply unit 4 is configured by including a water supply valve unit 10 (described later) and other components in a water supply path extending from a water source (not shown), such as a water pipe, to washing tub 3. Drain unit 6 is configured by including a drain valve 7 and other components in a drainage path extending from the bottom of washing tub 3 to the outside of the washing machine. When drain valve 7 is closed, water is supplied to washing tub 3 via water supply unit 4, thereby accumulating a predetermined amount of water in washing tub 3. Opening drain valve 7 allows water from washing tub 3 to be drained to the outside of the washing machine through the drainage path.

[0036] like Figure 2 As shown, the water supply unit 4 is configured to include a water supply valve unit 10, an automatic dispensing unit 11, and a water filling box 12, all located along a water supply path extending from a water source (not shown) to the washing tub 3. The inlet of the water supply valve unit 10 is connected to a water source (not shown), such as a water pipe. Furthermore, the water supply valve unit 10 includes at least two water supply valves 10a and 10b. The water supply valve 10a is an example of a manual water supply valve and is connected to the water filling box 12 via a manual supply path 13a. The water supply valve 10b is an example of an automatic water supply valve and is connected to the water filling box 12 via an automatic supply path 13b. Hereinafter, the water supply valve 10a will be referred to as the manual water supply valve 10a, and the water supply valve 10b will be referred to as the automatic water supply valve 10b. The outlet of the water filling box 12 is connected to the washing tub 3 via a water supply hose 14.

[0037] Automatic dispensing unit 11 includes a detergent box 15 and a softener box 16. Detergent box 15 and softener box 16 are detachably mounted on water supply unit 4. Specifically, detergent box 15 and softener box 16 are detachably mounted on a box storage unit 20 constituting water supply unit 4.

[0038] The detergent box 15 can store a laundry treatment agent for multiple uses, in this case, the detergent for washing the laundry contained in the washing tub 3. On the other hand, the softener box 16 can store a laundry treatment agent for multiple uses, in this case, the softener for softening the laundry contained in the washing tub 3.

[0039] The detergent box 15 is connected to the automatic supply path 13b via a detergent metering pump 17. The detergent metering pump 17 is configured to draw and deliver liquid by driving a piston via an actuator such as a motor or solenoid valve. The detergent metering pump 17 draws a predetermined amount of detergent from the detergent box 15 (in this case, the amount required for one operation) and delivers the drawn-in detergent into the automatic supply path 13b. The detergent delivered into the automatic supply path 13b is then introduced into the water filling box 12 along with water supplied from the automatic water supply valve 10b of the water supply valve unit 10. The detergent introduced into the water filling box 12 is then supplied into the washing tub 3 through the water supply hose 14 along with the water also introduced into the water filling box 12. In this manner, detergent is automatically dispensed from the detergent box 15 into the washing tub 3. The detergent metering pump 17 is not limited to a device that draws liquid; for example, it may also be a device that presses liquid.

[0040] The softener container 16 is connected to the automatic supply path 13b via a softener metering pump 18. The softener metering pump 18 is configured to draw and deliver liquid by driving a piston via an actuator such as a motor or solenoid valve. The softener metering pump 18 draws a predetermined amount of softener from the softener container 16 (in this case, the amount required for one operation) and delivers the drawn softener into the automatic supply path 13b. The softener delivered into the automatic supply path 13b is introduced into the water filling container 12 along with water supplied from the automatic water supply valve 10b of the water supply valve unit 10. The softener introduced into the water filling container 12 is then supplied into the washing tank 3 through the water supply hose 14 along with the water also introduced into the water filling container 12. Thus, softener is automatically dispensed from the softener container 16 into the washing tank 3. The softener metering pump 18 is not limited to a device that draws liquid; for example, it may also be a device that presses liquid.

[0041] A manual dispensing box 12a is housed within the water filling box 12 so that it can be inserted and removed. Manual dispensing box 12a includes a manual detergent dispenser (not shown) for manually dispensing detergent, and a manual softener dispenser (not shown) for manually dispensing softener. The detergent or softener dispenser is supplied to the washing tub 3 through a water supply hose 14, along with water injected into the water filling box 12 from the water supply valve unit 10 via a manual supply path 13a.

[0042] In the water supply unit 4 configured as described above, the manual supply path 13a is a supply path for supplying laundry treatment agents such as detergent or softener manually added by a user into the washing tub 3. Furthermore, the automatic supply path 13b is a supply path for supplying laundry treatment agents such as detergent or softener automatically added by the automatic insertion unit 11 into the washing tub 3.

[0043] like Figure 3 as well as Figure 4 As shown, the box housing 20 is configured in a generally rectangular box shape and is located above the water filling box 12 that constitutes the water supply unit 4. A generally rectangular opening 21 is provided at the top of the box housing 20. The bottom of the box housing 20 communicates with the interior of the water filling box 12.

[0044] The detergent box 15 and softener box 16 are removably mounted in the box housing 20 via an opening 21. The detergent box 15 is mounted on the side of the box housing 20 opposite the washing tank 3. Meanwhile, the softener box 16 is mounted on the washing tank 3 side of the box housing 20. A bulge 22 that bulges upward is provided on the bottom of the box housing 20 on the washing tank 3 side. By providing this bulge 22 on the bottom of the box housing 20, the box housing 20 can be positioned as close to the washing tank 3 as possible. As described in detail below, this bulge 22 functions as an example of a pressing portion.

[0045] The bottom of the softener box 16 is formed in a shape that is partially recessed along the shape of the bulged portion 22. Specifically, the bottom of the softener box 16 is provided with an upwardly recessed portion 16a. Recessed portion 16a is provided on the bottom of the softener box 16 on the side of the washing tank 3. Furthermore, the bottom of the box body 101, opposite recessed portion 16a and opposite the washing tank 3, is formed as a flat portion 16b having a flat lower surface.

[0046] Next, the above-mentioned detergent box 15 and softener box 16, in particular, the structure of the softener box 16 will be described in more detail. Figure 5 as well as Figure 6 As shown, the softener box 16 includes a box body 101 constituting the main body of the softener box 16, and legs 102 for allowing the box body 101, and thus the softener box 16 as a whole, to stand on a flat surface such as a floor. As will be described in detail later, the legs 102 are slidable relative to the box body 101 in a predetermined direction, in this case, in the vertical direction.

[0047] The main body 101 is formed as a long rectangular container. A substantially rectangular opening is provided at the top of the main body 101, to which a cover 103 is detachably attached. A supply port for supplying clothing treatment agent, in this case, softener, into the main body 101 is provided at the front. This supply port is opened and closed by a supply port cover 104.

[0048] The foot portion 102 is provided on a side surface of the box body 101, in this case, on one of the multiple side surfaces that extend in the longitudinal direction of the box body 101, in other words, on a surface that forms one end surface of the box body 101 in the transverse direction. In this case, the foot portion 102 is provided on the surface of the two transverse surfaces of the box body 101 that faces the washing tank 3 when the softener cartridge 16 is installed in the cartridge housing 20. Furthermore, the foot portion 102 is provided on a side surface of the box body 101, in this case, on one of the multiple side surfaces that extend in the longitudinal direction of the box body 101, in other words, flush with a surface that forms one end surface of the transverse direction of the box body 101.

[0049] like Figure 7 As shown, the leg 102 includes a leg body 102A constituting the main body of the leg 102. The leg body 102A is formed into a flat surface along the longitudinal direction of the box body 101. The lower end of the leg body 102A is bent horizontally toward the box body 101.

[0050] The leg 102 also has two corners 102B located at either end of the leg body 102A in the longitudinal direction. In other words, the two corners 102B are located at either end of the box body 101 in the longitudinal direction. In this case, the two corners 102B are integrally formed with the leg body 102A. The two corners 102B are provided so as to correspond to either end of the box body 101 in the longitudinal direction.

[0051] On the other hand, Figure 8 as well as Figure 9 As shown in the example, two guide rails 101B are provided on both end faces of the box body 101 in the longitudinal direction, corresponding to the corners 102B. The guide rails 101B extend linearly in the vertical direction on both end faces of the box body 101 in the longitudinal direction, and support the corners 102B of the legs 102 so that they can slide vertically. Consequently, the legs 102 are configured so that they can slide vertically as a whole relative to the box body 101. Furthermore, the legs 102 are configured so that they can slide between a stored position, in which they are stored on the side of the box body 101, in this case, on the upper side, and a free-standing position, in which the box body 101 stands on its own. Figure 5 The state where the foot 102 slides to the storage position is illustrated. Figure 6 The state where the leg portion 102 has slid to the self-standing position is illustrated.

[0052] like Figure 10 as well as Figure 11 As shown in the example, an elastic deformation portion 102C is provided at the corner portion 102B of the foot 102. The elastic deformation portion 102C is formed integrally with the corner portion 102B, and the elastic deformation portion 102C is formed in the shape of a leaf spring that can be elastically deformed. On the other hand, the box body 101 has locking portions 101C on both side surfaces in the longitudinal direction thereof, in other words, the surface having the guide rail portion 101B has the locking portion 101C. In this case, the locking portion 101C is provided in the middle of the guide rail portion 101B. The locking portion 101C has a plurality of, in this case, two, locking protrusions 101D and 101E. These locking protrusions 101D and 101E are provided so as to be divided into an upper side and a lower side in the middle of the guide rail portion 101B.

[0053] like Figure 11 As shown in the example, when the leg 102 slides to the self-standing position, the elastically deformable portion 102C engages the lower side of the locking protrusion 101E. This locks the leg 102 in the self-standing position. Furthermore, when the leg 102 slides from the self-standing position to the stowed position, the following operation occurs.

[0054] That is, in the process of the foot 102 sliding from the self-standing position to the accommodated position, the elastic deformation portion 102C of the foot 102 is elastically deformed in a manner that passes over the locking protrusion 101E from the lower side to the upper side. Moreover, when the foot 102 further slides toward the accommodated position side, the elastic deformation portion 102C returns to its original shape in a manner that passes over the locking protrusion 101E to the upper side. Accordingly, the locked state of the foot 102 in the self-standing position is released, and the foot becomes able to slide toward the accommodated position side. Furthermore, when the foot 102 further slides toward the accommodated position side, the elastic deformation portion 102C is elastically deformed in a manner that passes over the locking protrusion 101D from the lower side to the upper side. Furthermore, when the foot 102 further slides toward the accommodated position side, the elastic deformation portion 102C returns to its original shape in a manner that passes over the locking protrusion 101D to the upper side. Accordingly, as Figure 10 As illustrated, the elastic deformation portion 102C is locked to the upper side of the locking protrusion 101D, and the leg portion 102 is locked in the stored position.

[0055] Thus, when the leg 102 slides to the stored position, the elastically deformable portion 102C is locked to the upper side of the locking protrusion 101D. Thus, the leg 102 is locked in the stored position. Furthermore, when the leg 102 slides from the stored position to the free-standing position, the following operation is performed.

[0056] That is, in the process of the foot 102 sliding from the accommodated position to the self-standing position, the elastic deformation portion 102C of the foot 102 is elastically deformed in a manner that passes over the locking protrusion 101D from the upper side to the lower side. Moreover, when the foot 102 further slides toward the self-standing position, the elastic deformation portion 102C returns to its original shape in a manner that passes over the locking protrusion 101D to the lower side. Accordingly, the locked state of the foot 102 in the accommodated position is released, and the foot becomes able to slide toward the self-standing position. Furthermore, when the foot 102 further slides toward the self-standing position, the elastic deformation portion 102C is elastically deformed in a manner that passes over the locking protrusion 101E from the upper side to the lower side. Furthermore, when the foot 102 further slides toward the self-standing position, the elastic deformation portion 102C returns to its original shape in a manner that passes over the locking protrusion 101E to the lower side. Accordingly, as Figure 11 As illustrated, the elastic deformation portion 102C is locked to the lower side of the locking projection 101E, and the leg portion 102 is locked in the self-standing position.

[0057] Furthermore, when the leg 102 has slid to the self-standing position, the lower end surface of the leg 102 is located at substantially the same height as, or exactly the same height as, the lower end surface of the flat portion 16b forming part of the bottom of the softener box 16. Thus, the box body 101, and thus the softener box 16, can stand on its own, using the lower end surface of the flat portion 16b on the bottom surface of the box body 101 and the lower end surface of the leg 102 that has slid to the self-standing position.

[0058] Furthermore, the foot 102 that has slid to the self-standing position can be slid to the accommodated position by applying a load greater than a specified value from the outside. That is, when a load greater than a specified value is applied from the bottom toward the top to the lower end surface of the foot 102 that has slid to the self-standing position, the foot 102 will tend to slide toward the accommodated position due to this load. Moreover, as the foot 102 tends to slide toward the accommodated position, the elastic deformation portion 102C is pressed by the locking protrusion 101E and elastically deforms, thereby releasing the locked state at the self-standing position. That is, by applying a load greater than a specified value from the bottom toward the top to the lower end surface of the foot 102, the elastic force of the elastic deformation portion 102C is set to a magnitude that causes elastic deformation.

[0059] As described above, the cassette housing 20 is provided with a bulge 22. When a user presses the softener cassette 16 downward from above, with its leg 102 locked in the free-standing position, into the cassette housing 20, the lower end of the leg 102 abuts against the bulge 22 and is pushed upward by the bulge 22. In other words, the bulge 22 presses the leg 102, which has slid to the free-standing position, from the free-standing position toward the stored position. At this point, if the user applies a force exceeding the specified load to press the softener cassette 16, the leg 102, which has slid to the free-standing position, can be slid toward the stored position. In other words, by pressing the softener cassette 16 into the cassette housing 20, the bulge 22 automatically causes the leg 102, which has slid to the free-standing position, to slide toward the stored position.

[0060] Furthermore, by appropriately changing, for example, the elastic force of the elastically deformable portion 102C or the protrusion amount or shape of the locking protrusion 101E, the magnitude of the load capable of causing the leg 102, which has slid to the free-standing position, to slide back to the retracted position can be adjusted. Furthermore, by appropriately changing, for example, the size, thickness, and shape of the elastically deformable portion 102C, the elastic force of the elastically deformable portion 102C can be adjusted.

[0061] In addition, Figure 12As shown, the softener box 16 includes a handle 110 for the user to hook onto when installing or removing the softener box 16. The handle 110 is located at the upper portion of the front surface of the box body 101. The handle 110 protrudes forward from the upper portion of the front surface of the box body 101. The handle 110 is formed into a rectangular frame with an open top surface. The bottom surface of the handle 110 is sealed, and a portion of the bottom surface has an outflow hole 111. The outflow hole 111 allows the clothing treatment agent within the handle 110 to flow out of the handle 110. For example, when adding softener to the softener box 16 through the refill port, some softener may enter the handle 110 due to hand tremors or other factors. In this manner, even if the softener enters the grip portion 110 , the softener can flow out of the grip portion 110 through the outflow hole 111 .

[0062] In this case, outflow hole 111 is located above rail 101B on the bottom surface of handle 110, avoiding the upper portion. Furthermore, outflow hole 111 is located on the bottom surface of handle 110 opposite rail 101B, that is, on the side opposite washing tank 3. This prevents liquid flowing out of outflow hole 111 from reaching rail 101B.

[0063] According to the washing machine 1 illustrated above, in the softener box 16, the legs 102 are provided so as to be slidable relative to the box body 101. With this configuration, unlike conventional boxes having rotatable auxiliary legs, the legs 102 for allowing the softener box 16 to stand independently can be compactly accommodated on the box body 101 side.

[0064] Furthermore, according to washing machine 1, leg portion 102 is provided on the side of case body 101. This configuration allows leg portion 102 to be provided without significantly affecting the internal volume of case body 101. This allows leg portion 102 to be compactly accommodated on the side of case body 101 with little or no reduction in the internal volume of softener box 16.

[0065] Furthermore, according to the washing machine 1, the legs 102 are provided on a surface extending in the longitudinal direction among the plurality of side surfaces constituting the box body 101. This configuration allows the legs 102 to be provided longer than the longitudinal dimension of the box body 101, thereby stabilizing the self-supporting position of the softener box 16.

[0066] Furthermore, according to the washing machine 1, the foot portion 102 is provided flush with the side surface of the case body 101. This configuration prevents the foot portion 102 from protruding from the side surface of the case body 101 in a stepped manner. Furthermore, the foot portion 102 can be provided while also forming a flush side surface, thereby preventing the softener case 16 from being detracted from its appearance. Furthermore, providing the foot portion 102 outside the case body 101 can also prevent the softener case 16 from becoming larger overall. Furthermore, the case body 101 may sometimes be provided with a stepped shape, for example, to ensure strength or to prevent warping. Therefore, by providing the foot portion 102 with this stepped shape, it is further facilitated to achieve a configuration in which the foot portion 102 is flush with the side surface of the case body 101.

[0067] Furthermore, in washing machine 1, softener box 16 is configured to be self-standing by virtue of the lower end surface of flat portion 16b, which forms part of the bottom surface of box body 101, and the lower end surfaces of legs 102, which have slid into the self-standing position. This configuration allows softener box 16 to be self-standing even if the portion of box body 101 other than flat portion 16b is recessed. This allows softener box 16 to be easily provided with recess 16a at the bottom of softener box 16. This allows softener box 16, and thus box housing 20, to be moved closer to washing tub 3 by an amount corresponding to the provision of recess 16a, thereby achieving miniaturization.

[0068] Furthermore, according to the washing machine 1, the legs 102 are provided on the side of the washing tank 3 in the case body 101. With this configuration, the legs 102 can support the recessed portion 16a provided on the side of the washing tank 3 in the bottom of the softener box 16, thereby providing the recessed portion 16a and allowing the softener box 16 to stand stably.

[0069] Furthermore, according to washing machine 1, leg 102 has corner portions 102B corresponding to the longitudinal ends of case body 101. Case body 101 also has rail portions 101B that slidably support corner portions 102B. In other words, leg 102 is supported so that its longitudinal ends can slide relative to case body 101. This configuration allows leg 102 to be stably supported so that it can slide at its longitudinal ends, even if the longitudinal dimensions of leg 102 are increased. Furthermore, since the longitudinal dimensions of leg 102 can be increased, leg 102 can further stabilize the self-supporting nature of softener case 16.

[0070] Furthermore, according to washing machine 1, housing body 101 includes locking portion 101C on the surface having rail portion 101B, which locks leg 102 in both the stored and free-standing positions. This configuration allows leg 102 to be locked near rail portion 101B, which supports leg 102, thereby achieving a more stable locked state. In particular, in this embodiment, since locking portion 101C is provided on rail portion 101B, a more stable locked state can be achieved.

[0071] Furthermore, according to washing machine 1, outflow hole 111, which allows laundry treatment agent within grip portion 110 to flow out, is provided within grip portion 110 at a position away from the upper portion of guide rail portion 101B. This configuration prevents laundry treatment agent from flowing out of outflow hole 111, but from reaching guide rail portion 101B. This prevents laundry treatment agent from becoming contaminated by or adhering to guide rail portion 101B. This prevents laundry treatment agent from remaining within grip portion 110 while maintaining leg portion 102 in a stable, slidable state.

[0072] Furthermore, according to the washing machine 1, the leg portion 102 that has slid to the self-standing position is configured to be slidable toward the stored position by applying a load exceeding a predetermined value from the outside. This configuration allows the leg portion 102 that has slid to the self-standing position to be easily slid toward the stored position by applying a load exceeding the predetermined value from the outside, thereby achieving a configuration that is highly user-friendly.

[0073] Furthermore, in the washing machine 1, the cartridge housing 20 includes a protruding portion 22 for pressing the leg 102, which has slid to the self-standing position, toward the stored position. With this configuration, as the softener cartridge 16 is inserted into the cartridge housing 20, the protruding portion 22 presses the leg 102, which has slid to the self-standing position, causing it to slide toward the stored position. Consequently, the user can automatically store the leg 102 in the stored position by pressing the softener cartridge 16 into the cartridge housing 20 while the leg 102 remains in the self-standing position, thereby installing the softener cartridge 16 in the cartridge housing 20.

[0074] (Second embodiment)

[0075] like Figure 13 as well as Figure 14 As shown in the example, the box body 101 has a locking portion 200 on its side, in this case, on a side extending along the longitudinal direction of the box body 101 and on an end face in the short direction of the box body 101. Figure 15As illustrated, the locking portion 200 includes a locking recess 201 provided on the case body 101 side and a locking block 202 provided on the leg 102 side.

[0076] The locking recess 201 is a rectangular recessed portion formed in the side of the box body 101. In this case, the locking recess 201 is located in the center of the longitudinal direction of the box body 101. Furthermore, a wall portion 201a extending vertically is provided within the locking recess 201. Furthermore, multiple locking holes 201b and 201c are provided in this wall portion 201a, in this case, two. These locking holes 201b and 201c are arranged midway along the wall portion 201a, dividing the area into an upper portion and a lower portion.

[0077] The locking block 202 is provided on the foot body 102A of the foot 102 so as to be reciprocatingly movable along the longitudinal direction of the foot 102. In this case, the locking block 202 is located in the center of the longitudinal direction of the foot 102, corresponding to the locking recess 201 on the box body 101 side. Furthermore, the locking block 202 is biased in one direction along the longitudinal direction of the foot 102, in this case, toward the wall 201a, by a biasing member 20, such as a coil spring. Furthermore, a pin 202a is provided at one end of the locking block 202, in this case, toward the wall 201a. Furthermore, an operating member 204, provided on the surface side of the foot body 102A of the foot 102, is connected to the locking block 202. The user can move the locking block 202 along the longitudinal direction of the leg 102 by operating the operating member 204 .

[0078] When the foot 102 slides to the self-standing position, the pin 202a of the locking block 202, which is being forced toward the wall 201a, is inserted into the locking hole 201c. Consequently, the foot 102 is locked in the self-standing position. Furthermore, when the foot 102 slides from the self-standing position to the stored position, the following actions are performed. Specifically, the user uses the operating member 204 to cause the locking block 202 to overcome the force of the force-applying member 203 and move it toward the side opposite the wall 201a. This removes the pin 202a of the locking block 202 from the locking hole 201c, releasing the locked state of the foot 102 in the self-standing position and allowing it to slide toward the stored position. The user then slides the foot 102, now locked in the self-standing position, toward the stored position. Then, the locking block 202 is urged toward the wall portion 201a by the urging force of the urging member 203, and the pin 202a of the locking block 202 is inserted into the locking hole 201b. As a result, the leg portion 102 is locked in the stored position.

[0079] In this way, when the foot 102 slides to the stored position, the pin 202a of the locking block 202, which is forced toward the wall 201a, is inserted into the locking hole 201b. Consequently, the foot 102 is locked in the stored position. Furthermore, when the foot 102 slides from the stored position to the free-standing position, the following action is performed. Specifically, the user uses the operating member 204 to cause the locking block 202 to overcome the force of the force-applying member 203 and move it toward the side opposite the wall 201a. This removes the pin 202a of the locking block 202 from the locking hole 201b, releasing the locked state of the foot 102 in the stored position and allowing it to slide toward the free-standing position. The user then slides the foot 102, now locked in the stored position, toward the free-standing position. Then, the locking block 202 is urged toward the wall portion 201a by the urging force of the urging member 203, and the pin 202a of the locking block 202 is inserted into the locking hole 201c. As a result, the leg portion 102 is locked in the self-standing position.

[0080] According to the washing machine 1 according to the second embodiment, the case body 101 has a locking portion 200 on its side surface, in this case, on the side surface extending along the longitudinal direction, for locking the leg portion 102 in both the stored position and the free-standing position. Specifically, the side surface extending along the longitudinal direction of the elongated case body 101 provides a relatively large margin of space, making it easy to provide the locking portion 200 for locking the leg portion 102. Furthermore, since sufficient space is ensured for providing the locking portion 200, the design freedom of the locking portion 200 is significantly increased.

[0081] (Third embodiment)

[0082] like Figure 16 as well as Figure 17 As shown in the example, the box body 101 has multiple, in this case two, guide rails 301 on its side surface. Furthermore, the two guide rails 301 are provided on one side surface extending along the longitudinal direction of the box body 101 and on one end surface in the transverse direction of the box body 101. The guide rails 301 extend linearly in the vertical direction on the side surface of the box body 101. Meanwhile, the foot portion 102 has multiple, in this case two, elastically deformable portions 302 corresponding to the guide rails 301 on the box body 101 side.

[0083] The elastic deformation portion 302 is formed integrally with the foot body portion 102A of the foot portion 102, and the elastic deformation portion 302 is formed in the shape of a leaf spring capable of elastic deformation. Figure 18 as well as Figure 19As shown in the example, the case body 101 includes a locking portion 303 on the surface having the guide rail 301. In this case, the locking portion 303 is provided midway along the guide rail 301. The locking portion 303 includes a plurality of, in this case, two, locking protrusions 304a and 304b. These locking protrusions 304a and 304b are provided midway along the guide rail 301, divided into an upper side and a lower side.

[0084] like Figure 19 As shown in the example, when the leg 102 slides to the self-standing position, the elastically deformable portion 302 is locked to the lower side of the locking protrusion 304b. Thus, the leg 102 is locked in the self-standing position. Furthermore, when the leg 102 slides from the self-standing position to the stowed position, the following operation is performed.

[0085] That is, in the process of the foot 102 sliding from the self-standing position to the accommodated position, the elastic deformation portion 302 of the foot 102 is elastically deformed in a manner that passes over the locking protrusion 304b from the lower side to the upper side. Moreover, when the foot 102 further slides toward the accommodated position side, the elastic deformation portion 302 passes over the locking protrusion 304b to the upper side and returns to its original shape. Accordingly, the locked state of the foot 102 in the self-standing position is released, and it becomes a state that can slide toward the accommodated position side. Moreover, when the foot 102 further slides toward the accommodated position side, the elastic deformation portion 302 is elastically deformed in a manner that passes over the locking protrusion 304a from the lower side to the upper side. Moreover, when the foot 102 further slides toward the accommodated position side, the elastic deformation portion 302 passes over the locking protrusion 304a to the upper side and returns to its original shape. Accordingly, as Figure 18 As illustrated, the elastic deformation portion 302 is locked to the upper side of the locking protrusion 304 a , and the leg portion 102 is locked at the stored position.

[0086] Thus, when the leg 102 slides to the stored position, the elastically deformable portion 302 is locked on the upper side of the locking protrusion 304a. Thus, the leg 102 is locked in the stored position. Furthermore, when the leg 102 slides from the stored position to the free-standing position, the following operation is performed.

[0087] That is, in the process of the foot 102 sliding from the accommodated position to the self-standing position, the elastic deformation portion 302 of the foot 102 is elastically deformed in a manner that it passes over the locking protrusion 304a from the upper side to the lower side. Moreover, when the foot 102 further slides toward the self-standing position, the elastic deformation portion 302 passes over the locking protrusion 304a to the lower side and returns to its original shape. Accordingly, the locked state of the foot 102 in the accommodated position is released, and the foot becomes able to slide toward the self-standing position. Furthermore, when the foot 102 further slides toward the self-standing position, the elastic deformation portion 302 is elastically deformed in a manner that it passes over the locking protrusion 304b from the upper side to the lower side. Furthermore, when the foot 102 further slides toward the self-standing position, the elastic deformation portion 302 passes over the locking protrusion 304b to the lower side and returns to its original shape. Accordingly, as Figure 19 As illustrated, the elastic deformation portion 302 is locked to the lower side of the locking protrusion 304 b , and the leg portion 102 is locked in the self-standing position.

[0088] According to the washing machine 1 according to the third embodiment, the case body 101 has a locking portion 303 on its side surface, in this case, on the side surface extending along the longitudinal direction, for locking the leg 102 in both the stored position and the free-standing position. Specifically, the side surface extending along the longitudinal direction of the elongated case body 101 provides a relatively large margin of space, making it easy to provide the locking portion 303 for locking the leg 102. Furthermore, since sufficient space is ensured for providing the locking portion 303, the design freedom of the locking portion 303 is significantly increased.

[0089] (Other embodiments)

[0090] Furthermore, this embodiment is not limited to the aforementioned embodiments and can be modified or expanded as desired without departing from the spirit of the present invention. For example, the washing machine 1 can be configured by appropriately combining the aforementioned embodiments. Furthermore, in various embodiments, the configuration examples described for the softener box 16 can also be applied to other boxes, such as the detergent box 15.

[0091] Furthermore, the leg portion 102 is not limited to a configuration in which the leg main body 102A and the corner portions 102B are integrally formed; any configuration may be appropriately modified. For example, the leg portion 102 may be composed of multiple separate corner portions 102B. Alternatively, the leg portion 102 may be configured such that the multiple corner portions 102B are connected by a rod-like member. In other respects, various configurations may be applicable as long as the leg portion 102 is configured to be slidable relative to the box main body 101 and to enable the box to stand independently.

[0092] The leg portion 102 is not limited to being slidable on the side surface of the case body 101 , and may be configured to be slidable in and out of a hole provided in the case body 101 , for example.

[0093] Furthermore, the box is not limited to the detergent box 15 for storing detergent or the softener box 16 for storing softener. For example, any box may be used as long as it is used to store various treatment agents for performing certain treatments on clothing, such as a deodorant box for storing deodorant, a disinfectant box for storing disinfectant, or a bleaching box for storing bleach. Furthermore, the multiple boxes provided in the water supply unit 4 may be used to store the same type of treatment agents or different types of treatment agents. Furthermore, the washing machine 1 may be configured to include a single box in the water supply unit 4 or to include multiple boxes of three or more. Furthermore, the detergent metering pump 17 and the softener metering pump 18 are not limited to devices that suck liquid and may, for example, be devices that squeeze liquid.

[0094] Furthermore, this embodiment can also be applied to so-called vertical-axis washing machines, where the central axis of rotation of the rotating tank extends in a vertical direction. Furthermore, this embodiment can also be applied to washing machines with a drying function. Furthermore, this embodiment can also be applied to washing machines without a drying function. Furthermore, this embodiment can be applied to various clothing processing devices, as long as the device can perform some type of treatment on clothing, such as deodorization, deodorization, sterilization, bleaching, etc.

[0095] Although several embodiments of the present invention have been described above, these embodiments are provided as examples only and are not intended to limit the scope of the present invention. These new embodiments may be implemented in various other ways, and various omissions, substitutions, and modifications may be made without departing from the scope of the invention. These embodiments and their variations are all within the scope and spirit of the present invention, and are also within the scope of the invention described in the claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A clothes treating device comprising a box for storing a clothes treating agent for treating clothes, characterized in that: The box includes: a box body constituting a main body portion of the box; and legs for allowing the box body to stand independently. The foot portion is arranged to be exposed on the side of the box body portion, The foot portion is configured to be slidable relative to the box body portion. The foot slides along the side surface on which it is arranged between a receiving position and a self-standing position.

2. The clothes treating device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The foot is configured to be flush with the side surface of the box body.

3. The clothes processing device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: The box is self-standing by the bottom surface of the box body and the legs.

4. The clothes treating device according to claim 3, characterized in that: It also has a clothes processing tank for storing clothes. The foot portion is provided on the laundry treatment tank side of the box body portion.

5. The clothes treating device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The leg portion has corners corresponding to both ends in the longitudinal direction of the box body portion. The box body has a guide rail portion that supports the corner portion so as to be slidable.

6. The clothes treating device according to claim 5, characterized in that: The housing position is a position where the legs are housed on the side of the box body, and the self-standing position is a position where the legs allow the box body to stand on its own. The case body has a locking portion on a surface having the guide rail portion, for locking the leg portion between the accommodated position and the self-standing position.

7. The clothes treating device according to claim 5, characterized in that: The legs are arranged to be slidable between a storage position in which the legs are stored on the side of the box body and a self-standing position in which the box body is self-standing. The box body has a locking portion on a side surface thereof for locking the leg portion at the accommodated position and the self-standing position.

8. The clothes treating device according to any one of claims 5 to 7, characterized in that: The box body has a gripping portion for the user to hook his hand. The grip portion has an outflow hole for allowing the liquid in the grip portion to flow out. The outflow hole is provided at a position of the grip portion avoiding an upper portion of the guide rail portion.

9. The clothes processing device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: The legs are arranged to be slidable between a storage position in which the legs are stored on the side of the box body and a self-standing position in which the box body is self-standing. The leg portion that has slid to the self-standing position can slide toward the accommodated position by applying a load greater than or equal to a predetermined value from the outside.

10. The clothes treating device according to claim 9, characterized in that: It also includes a box receiving portion for receiving the box. The cassette storage section includes a pressing portion that presses the leg portion that has slid to the self-standing position toward the storage position.

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