washing machine

Abstract

The present invention provides a washing machine capable of fully cleaning a foreign matter separation device. The washing machine comprises: a housing; an outer tank, which is arranged in the housing; a washing tank, which is arranged in the outer tank and is used to hold washings, and the washing tank can rotate; a first motor, which is used to drive the washing tank to rotate; a circulating water circuit, which is used to circulate the washing water in the outer tank; a discharge water circuit, in which a drain valve is provided, and by opening the drain valve, the washing water in the outer tank can be discharged to the outside of the washing machine through the discharge water circuit; a foreign matter separation device, which is arranged in the circulating water circuit and is used to separate foreign matter contained in the washing water flowing through the circulating water circuit; a pump part, which is arranged in the circulating water circuit, and by driving the pump part, the washing water circulates between the outer tank and the foreign matter separation device and the foreign matter separation device is used to separate foreign matter; a control part, which is used to control the operation of the washing machine; and a cleaning water circuit, which is used to connect an external water source and the foreign matter separation device.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a washing machine for washing articles such as clothes, and in particular to a washing machine capable of separating foreign matter separated from the laundry during the washing process from washing water. Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, in order to separate foreign matter such as dirt and debris detached from laundry such as clothes during washing from washing water and thereby purify the washing water, it has been considered to provide a foreign matter separation device in a washing machine.

[0003] For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a washing machine such as Fig.13 As shown, the washing machine comprises: an outer tub 1 and a washing tub 4 which are configured as a bottomed cylindrical shape; a motor 10, which is arranged at the rear of the outer tub 1 and is used to drive the washing tub 4; a water supply port 13, which is used to supply washing water; a water supply passage 19, one end of which is connected to the drainage passage 17 and the other end is connected to the outer tub 1 to form a circulation passage; a pump 20, which is arranged in the water supply passage 19 and is used to circulate the washing water in the outer tub 1; and a centrifugal separation part 21, which is arranged on the downstream side of the pump 20 and has a rotating drum 21a, a washing water inlet 21c and a washing water outlet 21d.

[0004] The washing water in the outer tank 1 circulates from the drainage passage 17 through the water supply passage 19 as shown by the arrow C under the action of the pump 20, and passes through the centrifugal separation part 21. When the washing water passes through the centrifugal separation part 21, the washing water flows from bottom to top while rotating around the central axis of the rotating drum 21a, so that foreign matter contained in the washing water is separated by the action of centrifugal force toward the inner peripheral surface 21e of the rotating drum 21a. Since the momentum of the washing water flowing outside is weaker than that of the washing water flowing through the part, the foreign matter will not return to the washing water again.

[0005] Prior art literature

[0006] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2018-75120 Summary of the invention

[0007] Problem that the invention aims to solve

[0008] However, in Patent Document 1, the centrifugal separation unit cannot be cleaned, so that the centrifugal separation unit cannot function normally after long-term use, and even the washing water is contaminated.

[0009] Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide a washing machine capable of cleaning a foreign matter separator.

[0010] Solutions for solving problems

[0011] In order to solve the above problems, the present invention provides a washing machine, wherein the washing machine includes: an outer shell; an outer tank, which is arranged in the outer shell; a washing tank, which is arranged in the outer tank and is used to accommodate washing, and the washing tank is rotatable; a first motor, which is used to drive the washing tank to rotate; a circulating water circuit, which is used to circulate the washing water in the outer tank; a discharge water circuit, in which a drain valve is provided, and by opening the drain valve, the washing water in the outer tank can be discharged to the outside of the washing machine through the discharge water circuit; a foreign matter separation device, which is arranged in the circulating water circuit and is used to separate foreign matter contained in the washing water flowing through the circulating water circuit; a pump part, which is arranged in the circulating water circuit, and by driving the pump part, the washing water circulates between the outer tank and the foreign matter separation device and the foreign matter separation device is used to separate foreign matter; a control part, which is used to control the operation of the washing machine; and a cleaning water circuit, which is used to connect an external water source and the foreign matter separation device.

[0012] According to the above structure, since the cleaning water path is provided, the foreign matter separator can be cleaned by using an external water source, and foreign matter accumulated during the washing stage can be effectively discharged from the washing machine. Moreover, compared with the case of using washing water for cleaning, the water from the external water source is cleaner and is unlikely to contain large foreign matter such as coins that may damage the foreign matter separator, so there is no need to provide an additional filtering device, and a sufficient cleaning effect can be achieved with a simple structure.

[0013] Preferably, the control unit controls so that during at least a portion of the time period during the cleaning process of cleaning the foreign matter separation device, water from the external water source flows into the foreign matter separation device via the cleaning water path in a direction opposite to the flow direction of the washing water when passing through the foreign matter separation device during the circulation process, and is discharged via the discharge water path.

[0014] According to the above configuration, since the discharge water passage is shared with the outer tank, the configuration can be simplified and the cost can be reduced.

[0015] Preferably, the foreign matter separator is cleaned by the cleaning water passage during a drainage period in which the drain valve is opened to drain the wash water in the outer tub.

[0016] According to the above configuration, since the drain water passage and the drain valve are shared with the outer tank, the configuration can be simplified and the cost can be saved.

[0017] Preferably, the foreign matter separation device is a centrifugal separation device, which includes: a shell; a rotating drum rotatably arranged in the shell; and a second motor for driving the rotating drum to rotate. During at least a portion of the time period of a cleaning process for cleaning the foreign matter separation device, the control unit controls the second motor so that the rotating drum rotates at a speed lower than the speed during centrifugal separation.

[0018] According to the above structure, during the cleaning process, the rotating drum rotates at a low speed to shake off foreign matter attached to the inner circumferential surface, thereby further improving the cleaning effect.

[0019] Preferably, a water supply switching unit is provided on the downstream side of the external water source in the cleaning water circuit, and the water supply switching unit is configured to open or cut off the water supply from the external water source to the foreign matter separation device. During at least a part of the time period of the cleaning process of cleaning the foreign matter separation device, the control unit controls the water supply switching unit so that water is continuously or intermittently supplied from the external water source to the foreign matter separation device.

[0020] According to the above configuration, the switch of the water supply switching unit can be controlled as needed, thereby supplying water on demand and saving water.

[0021] Preferably, during continuous or intermittent water supply from the external water source to the foreign matter separation device, the rotating drum performs any of forward and reverse switching rotation, intermittent rotation and unidirectional continuous rotation at a rotation speed lower than the rotation speed during centrifugal separation.

[0022] According to the above structure, the rotation mode of the rotating drum can be selected according to needs, and water can be supplied as needed, which can further improve the cleaning effect of the foreign matter separation device.

[0023] Preferably, the washing machine also includes a detection unit for detecting the accumulated amount of foreign matter at the foreign matter separation device. When the accumulated amount of foreign matter detected by the detection unit exceeds a predetermined value, the control unit controls so that water is supplied from the external water source to the foreign matter separation device during at least a portion of the time period of a cleaning process for cleaning the foreign matter separation device.

[0024] According to the above configuration, water can be supplied only when the foreign matter separator needs to be cleaned, thereby saving water.

[0025] Preferably, the detection unit includes at least one of the following devices: a weight detection unit for detecting the weight of the foreign matter separation device; a load detection unit for detecting the load of the motor of the foreign matter separation device; and an impurity detection unit for detecting the impurity content in the washing water flowing out of the foreign matter separation device.

[0026] Preferably, a flow channel cross-sectional area of ​​at least a portion of the cleaning water channel gradually decreases as it moves from the external water source toward the foreign matter separation device.

[0027] According to the above structure, the water pressure of the water in the cleaning water channel when entering the foreign matter separator can be increased, thereby further improving the cleaning effect.

[0028] Preferably, the foreign matter separation device has a water inlet, through which water from the clean water path enters the foreign matter separation device, and the height difference between the water inlet and the external water source in the vertical direction is more than 40% of the height of the washing machine.

[0029] According to the above structure, the water pressure of the water in the cleaning water channel when entering the foreign matter separator can be increased, thereby further improving the cleaning effect.

[0030] Preferably, the foreign matter separation device has a water inlet, through which water from the cleaning water channel enters the foreign matter separation device, and the water inlet is configured to allow the water from the cleaning water channel to flow toward the inner circumferential surface of the rotating drum.

[0031] According to the above structure, when the water in the cleaning water channel enters the foreign matter separator, it can collide head-on with the inner peripheral surface of the foreign matter separator, thereby further improving the cleaning effect.

[0032] Preferably, a detergent storage section is provided in the cleaning water path, storing a detergent capable of improving the ability to remove foreign matter accumulated in the foreign matter separation device, and when water supplied from the external water source to the foreign matter separation device flows through the detergent storage section, at least a portion of the detergent stored in the detergent storage section enters the water.

[0033] According to the above structure, the cleaning effect can be further improved.

[0034] Preferably, an atmospheric opening is provided at a position on the downstream side of the cleaning water circuit relative to the external water source, and the atmospheric opening is used to prevent washing water from flowing back to the external water source side. An overflow port is provided at a position on the downstream side of the cleaning water circuit relative to the atmospheric opening. The washing machine also includes an overflow water circuit, which connects the overflow port with the discharge water circuit, or connects the overflow port with the part of the circulating water circuit on the upstream side relative to the foreign matter separation device.

[0035] According to the above configuration, it is possible to prevent the wash water from flowing back toward the external water source.

[0036] Preferably, a diversion structure is provided on the downstream side of the external water source, and the diversion structure has: an inlet through which water from the external water source is introduced; a first outlet connected to the foreign matter separation device via the clean water path; and a second outlet connected to the outer tank.

[0037] Preferably, the diversion structure is formed into a roughly U-shape, the inlet is located at one end of the diversion structure, the first outlet is located near the bottom of the diversion structure, and the second outlet is located at the other end of the diversion structure, and the washing machine also includes an inlet valve arranged between the external water source and the diversion structure, and the control unit controls the inlet valve so that: during the water supply of the washing step and the rinsing step, water is supplied at a first water pressure so that water from the external water source is supplied to the outer tank via the second outlet; and during at least a portion of the time period of the cleaning process for cleaning the foreign matter separation device, water is supplied at a second water pressure lower than the first water pressure so that water from the external water source cannot reach the second outlet and is supplied to the foreign matter separation device via the first outlet and the cleaning water path.

[0038] Preferably, the first discharge outlet is located on the upstream side of the second discharge outlet, or the first discharge outlet and the second discharge outlet are respectively located on two water paths branching from the inlet, and the washing machine further includes: a control valve for opening or closing the second discharge outlet; and a water inlet valve, which is arranged between the external water source and the diversion structure, and the control unit controls the water inlet valve and the control valve so that: during the water supply period of the washing step and the rinsing step, the water inlet valve and the control valve are both opened, and water from the external water source is supplied to the outer tank via the second discharge outlet; and during at least a part of the time period of the cleaning process for cleaning the foreign matter separation device, the water inlet valve is opened and the control valve is closed, and water from the external water source is supplied to the foreign matter separation device only via the first discharge outlet and the cleaning water path.

[0039] According to the above configuration, the cleaning water channel and the supply water channel can be partially shared, so that the structure can be simplified and the cost can be saved.

[0040] Effects of the Invention

[0041] According to the present invention, a washing machine capable of cleaning a foreign matter separator can be provided. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0042] Figure 1It is a schematic diagram of the overall structure of the washing machine of the present invention.

[0043] Figure 2 It is a schematic diagram of a module of a washing machine of the present invention.

[0044] Figure 3 It is an enlarged view of the foreign matter separation device of the present invention.

[0045] Figure 4 (a), (b) and (c) are schematic diagrams for explaining the operation sequence of the second motor of the washing machine of the present invention during centrifugal separation.

[0046] Figure 5 It is an enlarged view of a modified example of the foreign matter separation device of the present invention.

[0047] Figure 6 It is another overall structural schematic diagram of the washing machine of the present invention.

[0048] Figure 7 It is a schematic diagram of a specific example of the flow diversion structure of the washing machine of the present invention.

[0049] Figure 8 (a) and (b) are schematic diagrams for explaining the operation sequence of the water supply switching part of the washing machine of the present invention during the cleaning process of the foreign matter separation device.

[0050] Fig. 9 (a) and (b) are schematic diagrams for explaining the action sequence of the drain valve of the washing machine of the present invention during the cleaning process of the foreign matter separation device.

[0051] Fig.10 (a), (b) and (c) are schematic diagrams for explaining the action sequence of the second motor of the washing machine of the present invention during the cleaning process of the foreign matter separation device.

[0052] Fig.11 (a), (b) and (c) are schematic diagrams for explaining a specific example of the operation sequence of the washing machine of the present invention during the washing process.

[0053] Fig.12 It is a schematic diagram for explaining the water flow when the foreign matter separation device of the washing machine of the present invention is cleaning during drainage.

[0054] Fig.13 It is a schematic structural diagram of a washing machine in the prior art. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0055] Various exemplary embodiments, features and aspects of the present invention will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. The same reference numerals in the accompanying drawings represent elements with the same or similar functions. Although various aspects of the embodiments are shown in the accompanying drawings, the drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale unless otherwise specified.

[0056] The word “exemplary” is used herein to mean “serving as an example, example, or illustration.” Any embodiment described herein as “exemplary” is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other embodiments.

[0057] In addition, in order to better illustrate the present invention, numerous specific details are provided in the specific examples below. It should be understood by those skilled in the art that the present invention can be implemented without certain specific details. In some embodiments, methods and means well known to those skilled in the art are not described in detail in order to highlight the subject matter of the present invention.

[0058] 1. The overall structure of the washing machine

[0059] Figure 1 It is a schematic diagram of the overall structure of the washing machine of the present invention. Figure 2 It is a schematic diagram of a module of a washing machine of the present invention.

[0060] like Figure 1 As shown, the washing machine 100 comprises: a housing 101; an outer tub 102 disposed in the housing 101; and a washing tub 103 disposed in the outer tub 102 for accommodating laundry, and the washing tub 103 is rotatable.

[0061] Outer tub 102 and washing tub 103 are formed in a bottomed cylindrical shape, for example. Outer tub 102 is elastically supported inside housing 101 by, for example, a plurality of suspension structures (not shown). Washing tub 103 is provided with an inlet (not shown) for putting in and taking out laundry such as clothes.

[0062] A first motor 104 is provided on the back side of the outer tub 102, and the washing tub 103 can rotate around the tub rotation axis under the driving action of the first motor 104. The first motor 104 can adopt a known structure such as a brushless DC motor.

[0063] Washing machine 100 further includes foreign matter separator 112 that can separate foreign matter separated from the laundry in washing tub 103 from washing water.

[0064] The washing machine 100 also has: a circulating water circuit 106, which connects the outer tank 102 and the foreign matter separation device 112, and is used to circulate the washing water in the outer tank 102; a discharge water circuit 107, one end of which is connected to the outer tank 102 via the circulating water circuit 106, and the other end leads to the outside of the washing machine, and the washing water in the outer tank 102 can be discharged to the outside of the washing machine via the discharge water circuit 107; and a cleaning water circuit 110, which connects the external water source 113 and the foreign matter separation device 112.

[0065] A pump unit 20 is provided on the downstream side of the outer tank 102 in the circulating water path 106. By driving the pump unit 20, the washing water can be circulated between the outer tank 102 and the foreign matter separator 112. A drain valve 18 is provided in the discharge water path 107. By opening the drain valve 18, the washing water in the outer tank 102 can be discharged to the outside of the washing machine.

[0066] A water supply switching unit 114 is provided in the cleaning water path 110 . By opening the water supply switching unit 114 , water can be supplied from the external water source 113 to the foreign matter separation device 112 . By closing the water supply switching unit 114 , water supply from the external water source 113 to the foreign matter separation device 112 can be stopped.

[0067] like Figure 2 As shown, the washing machine 100 also includes a control unit 22 for controlling the operation of the washing machine 100 and an operation display unit 26 for displaying to the user and allowing the user to operate. As an example, the control unit 22 may be composed of a microcomputer and its peripheral circuits, and the operation display unit 26 may be composed of a touch panel provided on the front surface of the washing machine 100. The control unit 22 and the operation display unit 26 are connected in a manner capable of bidirectional communication, so as to receive instructions corresponding to the user's operation from the operation display unit 26 and send instructions to the operation display unit 26 to display specific content.

[0068] In addition, the control unit 22 can also control the drive of the first motor 104, the water supply switching unit 114, the drain valve 18, the second motor 112d to be described later, and the pump unit 20, so as to perform washing processes including washing, rinsing and dehydration, as well as the cleaning of the foreign matter separation device 112 to be described in detail later.

[0069] As will be described in detail later, optionally, the washing machine 100 may further include one or more of a weight detection unit 23 for detecting the weight of the foreign matter separation device 112, a load detection unit 24 for detecting the load of the second motor 112b, and an impurity detection unit 25 for detecting the impurity content in the washing water flowing out of the foreign matter separation device 112. The control unit 22 may decide whether to clean the foreign matter separation device 112 according to the detection results of one or more of the weight detection unit 23, the load detection unit 24, and the impurity detection unit 25.

[0070] 2. Foreign matter separation device

[0071] The foreign matter separator 112 is provided in the circulating water path 106, and is used to separate the foreign matter separated from the laundry in the washing tub 103 from the washing water. Here, the foreign matter separator 112 is described as a centrifugal separator.

[0072] Figure 3 FIG. 1 is an enlarged view of the foreign matter separation device 112 of this embodiment. Figure 1 and Figure 3 As shown, the foreign matter separator 112 comprises: a housing 112e, which is disposed in the circulating water circuit 106 and communicates with the circulating water circuit 106 via a washing water inlet 112b and a washing water outlet 112c; a hollow rotating drum 112a, which is rotatably disposed in the housing 112e; and a second motor 112d, which drives the rotating drum 112a to rotate via a rotating shaft 112f. Figure 3 In the embodiment, the second motor 112d is located at the lower side of the housing 112e, but the present invention is not limited thereto. The second motor 112d may also be disposed at the upper side of the housing 112e (eg, as described later). Figure 5 other locations such as the variant shown in the figure.

[0073] like Figure 1 and Figure 3 As shown, the pump unit 20 is disposed on the downstream side of the outer tank 102 in the circulating water path 106 and on the upstream side of the foreign matter separator 112. The pump unit 20 and the foreign matter separator 112 are separately disposed, and for example, a known structure such as an electric pump unit can be adopted. By driving the pump unit 20, the washing water in the outer tank 102 circulates in the circulating water path 106.

[0074] The rotating drum 112a is provided with a rotating drum inlet 112g and a rotating drum outlet 112h so that the washing water circulated by the pump unit 20 flows through the inside of the rotating drum 112a. In accordance with the action of circulating the washing water in the circulating water path 106 by the pump 20, the second motor 112d rotates the rotating drum 112a. The second motor 112d is set to rotate the rotating drum 112a at a high speed of, for example, about 4000 rpm. The washing water introduced into the rotating drum 112a rotates in the rotating drum 112a by the rotation of the rotating drum 112a, and a high-speed swirling flow is generated.

[0075] The washing water introduced into the foreign matter separator 112 swirls and is subjected to centrifugal separation force due to the rotation of the rotating drum 112a while flowing into the rotating drum 112a from the rotating drum inlet 112g and flowing out from the rotating drum outlet 112h. In this way, the structure is such that foreign matter such as dirt contained in the washing water is directed toward the inner circumferential surface 112i of the rotating drum 112a by centrifugal force. In the present embodiment, the rotating drum inlet 112g is arranged below the rotating drum outlet 112h, and the washing water passing through the foreign matter separator 112 flows from bottom to top. However, this is merely exemplary, and the present invention is not limited thereto, and it can also be arranged that the rotating drum inlet 112g is located at the top and the rotating drum outlet 112h is located at the bottom, and the washing water flows from top to bottom.

[0076] Next, the function of the foreign matter separator 112 to purify the washing water will be described. In the washing process, the washing water contains various foreign matters such as dirt. For example, the dirt includes sand, lint, hair, and keratin dirt, which are heavier than water, and oil components such as sebum, which are lighter than water but adhere to materials such as lint, which are heavier than water.

[0077] During the washing process, the pump unit 20 is driven to circulate the washing water containing the dirt in the outer tank 102 to the foreign matter separator 112. When the pump unit 20 is driven, the washing water in the outer tank 102 passes through the circulation water path 106 and reaches the foreign matter separator 112. The flow velocity V1 of the washing water in the rotating drum 112a of the foreign matter separator 112 in the direction of the rotating axis is, for example, about 2 m / s to 3 m / s.

[0078] At this time, the second motor 112d of the foreign matter separator 112 rotates the rotating drum 112a at a speed of, for example, about 4000 r / min. Therefore, the washing water flowing into the rotating drum 112a forms a high-speed swirling flow in the rotating drum 112a. For the swirling flow swirling in the rotating drum 112a, the flow velocity V2 in the swirling direction near the inner circumferential surface 112i of the rotating drum 112a is, for example, about 16 m / s to 17 m / s, forming a relationship of V2>V1.

[0079] In this way, the washing water from the outer tank 102 enters the foreign matter separator 112 through the washing water inlet 112b, flows into the rotating drum 112a from the rotating drum inlet 112g, swirls and flows through the rotating drum 112a, flows out of the rotating drum 112a from the rotating drum outlet 112h, and flows to the circulating water circuit 106 through the washing water outlet 112c. At this time, the foreign matter contained in the washing water with a specific gravity heavier than the specific gravity of the washing water moves toward the inner circumferential surface 112i of the rotating drum 112a due to the strong centrifugal force generated by the high-speed swirling flow of the flow velocity V2. In addition, substances with a specific gravity less than that of water (such as oil components represented by sebum) can also be attached to substances with a specific gravity greater than that of water and separated and removed. In this way, the dirt substances are separated and removed from the washing water circulating in the circulating water circuit 106.

[0080] On the other hand, with respect to the washing water of flow rate V1 flowing along the rotation axis near the center of the rotating drum 112a, the washing water filling the inner circumferential surface 112i of the rotating drum 112a becomes a high-speed swirling flow of flow rate V2 and is exerted with a strong centrifugal force. In addition, the rotating drum inlet 112g and the rotating drum outlet 112h are occupied by the circulating washing water, so the dirt separated from the washing water and heading toward the inner circumferential surface 112i of the rotating drum 112a is almost not mixed with the washing water flowing inside the rotating drum 112a, and thus will not be introduced into the circulating flow and return. The washing water is purified by the foreign matter separator 112 as it circulates in the circulating water path 106.

[0081] Therefore, the foreign matter separator 112 can hold the foreign matter on the inner circumferential surface 112i of the rotating drum 112a during the centrifugal separation process, and can prevent the foreign matter temporarily separated from the washing water due to the centrifugal force from returning to the washing water flowing through the rotating drum 112a. In this way, it is possible to prevent the undesirable phenomenon such as the dirt material attaching to the washing again, thereby improving the cleaning power of the washing machine.

[0082] The washing water from which foreign matter has been removed by foreign matter separator 112 in this manner flows into outer tub 102 through circulating water path 106, and further circulates between foreign matter separator 112 and outer tub 102, thereby being purified.

[0083] In addition, if Figure 4 As shown, when the foreign matter separation device 112 performs foreign matter separation, the second motor 112d can switch between high and low speeds ( Figure 4 (a)), low and high speed switching ( Figure 4 (b)) and continuous high speed ( Figure 4 Any action sequence in (c)).

[0084] The foreign matter separation device 112 described above is merely exemplary, and the present invention is not limited thereto. The foreign matter separation device 112 may also be other structures that do not use centrifugal force, for example, a structure that is only provided with a filter, etc. The present invention does not limit the specific structure of the foreign matter separation device, as long as it can separate foreign matter from the washing water.

[0085] For example, as mentioned above, in Figure 3 In the illustrated embodiment, the pump unit 20 is separately provided from the foreign matter separation device 112, specifically, it is provided on the downstream side of the outer tank 102 and on the upstream side of the shell 112e in the circulating water circuit 106, but is not limited thereto, and the pump unit may also be a structure that is integrated with the foreign matter separation device.

[0086] For example, Figure 5 As shown, a pump unit 20' is provided on the downstream side of the foreign matter separator 112 in the circulating water path 106. The pump unit 20' is provided with a pump blade 20'a formed integrally with the rotating cylinder 112a. The pump unit 20' is provided in the circulating water path 106.

[0087] In addition, Figure 3 In the embodiment shown, the second motor 112d is located at the lower side of the housing 112e, but is not limited thereto. Figure 5 As shown in the modified example, the second motor 112d is located on the upper side of the housing 112e. Figure 5 In the illustrated variation, the second motor 112d may also be located on the lower side of the housing 112e.

[0088] exist Figure 5 In the modified example shown, when the second motor 112d is driven, the pump blade 20'a rotates together with the rotating drum 112a. The washing water in the outer tank 102 flows into the circulating water path 106 under the pumping action of the pump blade 20'a, and then passes through the foreign matter separator 112 and returns to the circulating water path 106 again, and the cycle is repeated.

[0089] That is, in Figure 5 In the modified example shown, the pump blade 20'a is integrally provided with the rotating drum 112a, so that the pump part 20' and the foreign matter separator are integrated. The pump blade 20'a and the rotating drum 112a share a second motor 112d for rotation, thereby reducing the number of components, realizing the function of the pump for circulating the washing water with a simple structure, and saving costs.

[0090] 3. Clean waterways

[0091] The cleaning water path 110 connects the external water source 113 and the foreign matter separator 112. The cleaning water path 110 is provided with a water supply switching unit 114. By opening the water supply switching unit 114, water can be supplied from the external water source 113 to the foreign matter separator 112, thereby cleaning the foreign matter separator 112. By closing the water supply switching unit 114, the water supply from the external water source 113 to the foreign matter separator 112 can be stopped. As will be described in detail later, during the cleaning process of cleaning the foreign matter separator 112, the control unit 22 can control the water supply switching unit 114 so that water is continuously supplied from the external water source 113 to the foreign matter separator 112 or intermittently supplied.

[0092] like Figure 1 As shown, the cleaning water circuit 110 may share a portion of the water circuit with the circulating water circuit 106, and the washing water outlet 112c of the foreign matter separation device 112 connected to the circulating water circuit 106 also serves as the water inlet 110a for the water from the cleaning water circuit 110 to enter the foreign matter separation device 112. Figure 6 As shown, the cleaning water circuit 110 may also be independently provided relative to the circulating water circuit 106, and water from the cleaning water circuit 110 enters the foreign matter separation device 112 via a water inlet 110a provided separately from the washing water outlet 112c.

[0093] When the cleaning water path 110 is independently provided relative to the circulating water path 106, Figure 6 As shown, it is necessary to provide an atmosphere opening 115 at a position downstream of the external water source in the cleaning water channel 110 to prevent the washing water from flowing back to the external water source. A specific example of the atmosphere opening 115 is a detergent box.

[0094] Alternatively, if Figure 6 As shown, an overflow port 118 and an overflow waterway 117 connecting the overflow port 118 with the discharge waterway 107 may also be provided at a position on the downstream side of the clean waterway 110 relative to the atmosphere opening 115. The overflow port 118 and the overflow waterway 117 may guide the washing water that flows back toward the external water source to the discharge waterway 107 to prevent the washing water from overflowing and even contaminating the external water source. Optionally, the overflow waterway 117 may also connect the overflow port 118 with a portion of the circulating waterway 106 that is on the upstream side relative to the foreign matter separation device 112, so as to guide the backflowing washing water back to the circulating waterway instead of directly discharging it, so as to make full use of water resources.

[0095] In addition, although Figure 1 , 6Although it is not explicitly shown in the figure, the washing machine 100 may also include a supply water path for supplying water from the external water source 113 to the outer tank 102. The cleaning water path 110 may also share a portion of the water path with the supply water path to save costs. In this case, a diversion structure may be provided on the downstream side of the external water source 113, and the diversion structure has: an inlet through which water from the external water source 113 is introduced; a first outlet, which is connected to the foreign matter separation device 112 via the cleaning water path 110; and a second outlet, which is connected to the outer tank 102.

[0096] The following will refer to Figure 7 A specific example of a split flow structure is described in detail. Figure 7 As shown, as an example, a substantially U-shaped flow diversion structure 116 is provided on the downstream side of the external water source 113. The inlet 116a is located at one end of the flow diversion structure 116, the first outlet 116b is located near the bottom of the flow diversion structure 116, and the second outlet 116c is located at the other end of the flow diversion structure 116. The opening of the first outlet 116b can be set to be smaller than the opening of the inlet 116a and the opening of the second outlet 116c. The second outlet 116c can be set to be trumpet-shaped so as to evenly spray water on the clothes in the washing tank.

[0097] A water supply switching unit 114 and an atmospheric opening 115 as a detergent box are sequentially provided between the external water source 113 and the diverter structure 116. The structure from the external water source 113 to the second outlet 116c constitutes a supply water path 118 for supplying water from the external water source 113 to the outer tank 102. The structure from the external water source 113 to the first outlet 116b constitutes a part of the cleaning water path 110. The supply water path 118 shares the structure from the external water source 113 to the first outlet 116b with the cleaning water path 110. The water supply switching unit 114 can simultaneously control the water supply from the external water source 113 to the foreign matter separator 112 via the cleaning water path 110 and the water supply from the external water source 113 to the outer tank 102 via the supply water path 118.

[0098] The control unit 22 controls the water supply switching unit 114 so that during the water supply period of the washing and rinsing stages, water is supplied at a first water pressure so that water from the external water source 113 is supplied to the outer tank via the second outlet 116c. At the same time, part of the water will also flow into the cleaning waterway 110 via the first outlet 116b, but because it is still in the water supply period, the foreign matter separator 112 is not working, so even if water flows from the cleaning waterway 110 into the foreign matter separator 112, it will not have an adverse effect. In addition, the control unit 20 controls the water supply switching unit 114 so that during at least a portion of the cleaning process of cleaning the foreign matter separator 112, water is supplied at a second water pressure lower than the first water pressure so that the water from the external water source 113 cannot reach the second outlet 116c, and is supplied to the foreign matter separator 112 via the first outlet 116b and the cleaning waterway 110. As an example, the water supply switching unit 114 may be in the form of a valve, and the control unit 22 controls the opening of the valve to switch between closing, supplying water at the first water pressure, and supplying water at the second water pressure.

[0099] In the case of adopting the above-mentioned roughly U-shaped diverter structure 116, the supply waterway 118 and the cleaning waterway 110 can be realized simultaneously with a simple structure, without setting a switching component such as a valve other than the water supply switching part 114. This can achieve significant cost savings. In addition, the following advantages can also be achieved by adopting the diverter structure 116 as described above. First, the first discharge port 116b and the cleaning waterway 110 can discharge the water accumulated in the diverter structure 116 in time, so as to avoid the outward force generated when the door of the washing machine is opened after washing or drying, so that the water accumulated in the diverter structure 116 is sprayed on the clothes that have been dehydrated or dried in the washing tank via the second discharge port 116c. Secondly, the second discharge port 116c can also be used as the overflow port of the cleaning waterway 110, discharging the water backflowing from the cleaning waterway 110, without the need to separately set the overflow port and the overflow waterway, thereby significantly simplifying the structure and saving costs.

[0100] The approximately U-shaped flow diversion structure 116 described above is merely exemplary, and the present invention is not limited thereto. The flow diversion structure may not be set to be approximately U-shaped, for example, it may be set so that the first outlet is located on the upstream side of the second outlet, or the first outlet and the second outlet are respectively located on two waterways branching from the inlet. In this case, the washing machine 100 further includes: a control valve, which is used to open or close the second outlet; and a water inlet valve, which is arranged between the external water source and the flow diversion structure. The water inlet valve can also serve as the above-mentioned water supply switching unit 114.

[0101] The water inlet valve and the control valve are controlled by utilizing the control unit 22 so that: during the water supply period in the washing and rinsing stages, the water inlet valve and the control valve are both open, and water from the external water source 113 is supplied to the outer tank 102 via the second discharge outlet; and during at least a portion of the time period of the cleaning process for cleaning the foreign matter separation device 112, the water inlet valve is open and the control valve is closed, and water from the external water source 113 is only supplied to the foreign matter separation device 112 via the first discharge outlet and the cleaning water path 110.

[0102] In addition, it can also be configured to respectively set a first control valve and a second control valve for the first discharge port and the second discharge port. The first control valve is used as the above-mentioned water supply switching unit 114. During the water supply period of the washing and rinsing stages, the water inlet valve and the second control valve are both open, the first control valve is closed, and the water from the external water source 113 is supplied to the outer tank 102 via the second discharge port without entering the cleaning waterway 110. During at least a portion of the time period of the cleaning process of cleaning the foreign matter separator 112, the water inlet valve and the first control valve are both open, the second control valve is closed, and the water from the external water source 113 is only supplied to the foreign matter separator 112 via the first discharge port and the cleaning waterway 110 without entering the outer tank 102.

[0103] The cleaning waterway 110 described above is merely exemplary, and the present invention is not limited thereto. Optionally, the cleaning waterway 110 may also be configured such that the flow path cross-sectional area of ​​at least a portion of the cleaning waterway 110 gradually decreases as it moves from the external water source 113 toward the foreign matter separator 112. For example, the end of the cleaning waterway 110 on the side of the foreign matter separator 112 may be designed to have a shape in which the diameter gradually decreases toward the foreign matter separator 112. Thus, the water pressure when the water in the cleaning waterway 110 enters the foreign matter separator 112 through the water inlet 110a can be increased, thereby improving the cleaning ability.

[0104] Optionally, the cleaning water path 110 may also be configured such that the height difference between the water inlet 110a and the external water source 113 in the vertical direction is more than 40% of the height of the washing machine 100. When the position of the external water source 113 is usually fixed, the foreign matter separator 112 may be set as low as possible, for example, at a position close to the bottom surface of the housing 101. In this way, the water pressure of the water in the cleaning water path 110 when entering the foreign matter separator 112 can be increased, thereby improving the cleaning ability.

[0105] Optionally, the water inlet 110a can be set to allow water from the cleaning waterway 110 to flow to the inner circumferential surface 112i of the rotating drum 112a. For example, the water inlet 110a can be set at a position obliquely opposite to the inner circumferential surface 112i on the side of the shell 112e of the foreign matter separation device 112. As mentioned above, foreign matter adheres to the inner circumferential surface 112i of the rotating drum 112a due to centrifugal force. By setting the water inlet 110a as above, the water in the cleaning waterway can collide head-on with the inner circumferential surface 112i of the rotating drum 112a when entering the rotating drum 112a, thereby improving the cleaning ability.

[0106] Optionally, the cleaning waterway 110 may be provided with a detergent storage portion storing a detergent capable of improving the ability to remove foreign matter accumulated at the foreign matter separation device 112, and when the water supplied from the external water source 113 to the foreign matter separation device 112 flows through the detergent storage portion, at least a portion of the detergent stored in the detergent storage portion enters the water. Thus, the cleaning ability can be further improved by using detergent. As an example, the cleaning waterway 110 may be arranged to pass through a detergent box for the user to put in detergent. Before starting the cleaning process, the user is prompted to put detergent in the detergent box. In this way, the water subsequently provided from the external water source 113 flows through the detergent box, and the detergent is dissolved in the water. The water dissolved with detergent can more effectively remove foreign matter attached to the inner peripheral surface 112i.

[0107] 4. Cleaning process

[0108] When cleaning the foreign matter separator 112, the water supply switching unit 114 is opened so that water from the external water source 113 flows through the cleaning water path 110 along the same water flow direction D1 as when the washing water passes through the foreign matter separator 112 during the circulation process (see Figure 1 ) in the opposite direction D2 (see Figure 1 ) flows into the foreign matter separator 112, thereby flushing the foreign matter separator 112. The foreign matter flows with the flushing water through the circulation water path 106 to the discharge water path 107. While flushing or after flushing, the drain valve 18 is opened to discharge the flushing water with foreign matter outside the washing machine.

[0109] Regarding the water supply switching unit 114, it can be set that when the foreign matter separation device 112 is cleaned, the operation timing of the water supply switching unit 114 can be adopted Figure 8 The timings shown in (a) and (b) are shown in Figure 8 In the case of the action sequence shown in (a), the water supply switching unit 114 switches between opening and closing, so that the water supply from the external water source 113 to the foreign matter separator 112 switches between opening and cutting off, and water is intermittently supplied from the external water source 113 to the foreign matter separator 112. Figure 8In the case of the action sequence shown in (b), the water supply switching unit 114 is continuously opened so that the water supply from the external water source 113 to the foreign matter separation device 112 is continuously opened, and water is continuously supplied from the external water source 113 to the foreign matter separation device 112 .

[0110] Regarding the drain valve 18, it can be set that when the foreign matter separation device 112 is cleaned, the action timing of the drain valve 18 can be adopted Fig. 9 The timings shown in (a) and (b) are shown in Fig. 9 In the case of the working sequence shown in (a), the drain valve 18 remains open, so that drainage can continue. Fig. 9 In the case of the operating sequence shown in (b), the drain valve 18 switches between opening and closing, thereby enabling intermittent drainage.

[0111] Optionally, before or at the same time as opening the water supply switching portion 114, the second motor 112d can be driven to rotate the rotating drum 112a at a speed lower than the speed during centrifugal separation, for example, at a speed of less than 800 rpm, thereby shaking off foreign matter attached to the inner circumferential surface 112i of the foreign matter separation device 112, thereby further improving the cleaning effect.

[0112] Regarding the second motor 112d, it can be set that when the foreign matter separation device 112 is cleaned, the action timing of the second motor 112d can be adopted Fig.10 (a) (forward and reverse rotation), Fig.10 (b) (positive unidirectional intermittent rotation) and Fig.10 Any of the action timings shown in (c) (reverse unidirectional intermittent rotation).

[0113] Optionally, the second motor 112d adopts Fig.10 When the intermittent rotation action sequence shown in (b) or (c) is used, the water supply switching unit 114 can be used Figure 8 The second motor 112d and the water supply switching unit 114 can operate alternately, and the second motor 112d can operate before the water supply switching unit 114, so as to effectively clean with the sequence of shaking off foreign matter, flushing, shaking off foreign matter, and flushing.

[0114] The duration of the cleaning process for cleaning the foreign matter separation device 112 can be set to be fixed or variable. For example, it can be set to gradually extend the duration of the cleaning process as the washing machine is used for a longer time. In addition, the operation timing of the water supply switching unit 114, the drain valve 18 and the second motor 112d can be arbitrarily combined. For example, when the water supply switching unit 114 adopts Figure 8 When the timing shown in (a) is used, the drain valve 18 can be Fig. 9 Furthermore, the specific parameters of the operation timing of the water supply switching unit 114, the drain valve 18 and the second motor 112d can be set arbitrarily. Figure 8 When the timing is shown in (a), the switching frequency, duty cycle, etc. can be appropriately set according to the actual situation.

[0115] The following will refer to Fig.11 The cleaning process of the foreign matter separator 112 is described by taking the example that the cleaning process is performed during the drainage period when the drain valve 18 is opened to drain the washing water in the outer tank 102 in the washing process of the washing machine. Fig.12 As shown by the arrow in , during the drainage of the washing water from the outer tank 102 through the drain water path 107, water from the external water source 113 enters the foreign matter separation device 112 through the cleaning water path 110, and is discharged to the outside of the washing machine 100 together with the washing water through the circulating water path 106 and the drain water path 107, carrying foreign matter.

[0116] like Fig.11 As shown, the washing process of the washing machine includes washing, intermediate dehydration 1, rinsing 1, intermediate dehydration 2, rinsing 2 and final dehydration. Fig.11 In the washing machine 100, Figure 7 The structure shown, that is, the water supply switching unit 114 simultaneously controls the water supply from the external water source 113 to the foreign matter separator 112 via the cleaning water path 110 and the water supply from the external water source 113 to the outer tank 102 via the supply water path 118. Therefore, the water supply switching unit 114 is opened not only in the steps of washing, rinsing 1 and rinsing 2 that require water supply to the outer tank 102, but also in the steps of intermediate dehydration 1, intermediate dehydration 2 and final dehydration that require water supply to the foreign matter separator 112.

[0117] Fig.11 Three specific examples of the action sequence of the cleaning process of the foreign matter separator 112 during the intermediate dehydration 1, intermediate dehydration 2 and final dehydration for drainage are shown. The steps of washing, rinsing 1 and rinsing 2 in the three specific examples are the same. In the washing step, first the water supply switching unit 114 is opened to supply water to the outer tank 102. After the water supply is completed and a time T has passed, the second motor 112d starts to operate in a high-low speed switching mode to drive the rotating drum 112a to rotate for centrifugal separation. As described above, the high-low speed switching working mode is only exemplary, and the second motor 112d can also be used. Figure 3The operation modes shown are low-high speed switching, continuous high speed, etc. The drain valve 18 is always kept closed during the washing step. In each step of rinsing 1 and rinsing 2, the water supply switching unit 114 is opened for a period of time to supply water to the outer tank 102, during which the second motor 112d stops working and the drain valve 18 is kept closed.

[0118] exist Fig.11 In the first specific example shown in (a), when the intermediate dehydration 1 starts, the second motor 112d starts to Fig.10 The water supply switching unit 114 starts to work in the forward and reverse switching rotation mode shown in (a), and its rotation speed is significantly lower than the rotation speed when centrifuging in the washing step. Figure 8 The mode of intermittent water supply shown in (a) of the invention starts working. The second motor 112d and the water supply switching unit 114 may continue to work during the entire intermediate dehydration 1, or may only work during a part of the time period of the intermediate dehydration 1. The respective working durations of the second motor 112d and the water supply switching unit 114 may be the same or different. In addition, the drain valve 18 remains open during the entire step of the intermediate dehydration 1. The actions of the cleaning process during the intermediate dehydration 2 and the final dehydration are the same as those of the intermediate dehydration 1, and will not be repeated here.

[0119] exist Fig.11 In the second specific example shown in (b), during the dehydration period, similar to the first specific example, the second motor 112d operates in a mode of switching rotation between forward and reverse directions, but unlike the first specific example, the water supply switching unit 114 and the drain valve 18 are alternately opened, the water supply switching unit 114 performs intermittent water supply, and the drain valve 18 performs intermittent drainage. The alternating opening of the water supply switching unit 114 and the drain valve 18 may last throughout the dehydration period, or may only last for a period of time, and then switch to, for example, closing the water supply switching unit 114 and keeping the drain valve 18 open.

[0120] exist Fig.11 In the third specific example shown in (c), during dehydration, similar to the first specific example, the second motor 112d operates in a forward and reverse switching rotation mode and the drain valve 18 always remains open, but unlike the first specific example, the water supply switching unit 114 is continuously opened for a period of time from the start of the dehydration step and then closed.

[0121] like Fig.11 As shown in FIG. 1 , several specific examples of the action sequence for cleaning the foreign matter separation device 112 during the washing process of the washing machine are listed. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and other action sequences may be selected as needed.

[0122] In addition, the above cleaning process is only exemplary, and the present invention is not limited thereto. Optionally, the cleaning process of cleaning the foreign matter separation device 112 can also be performed when the washing machine is not performing a washing operation. Optionally, the foreign matter separation device 112 can be cleaned at a predetermined time other than the washing operation. For example, the cleaning process can be started when the usage time reaches a predetermined value. It can also be set to start the cleaning process in response to a user's instruction. For example, a foreign matter separation device cleaning program can be provided, and the cleaning process is started when the user selects the program.

[0123] In addition, optionally, cleaning can be performed as needed when there are many foreign objects accumulated at the foreign object separation device 112. In this case, a detection unit for detecting the amount of foreign object accumulation at the foreign object separation device 112 can be provided in the washing machine, and the cleaning process is started when the amount of foreign object accumulation detected by the detection unit exceeds a predetermined value.

[0124] As a detection unit, Figure 2 As shown, one or more of a weight detection unit 23 for detecting the weight of the foreign matter separation device 112, a load detection unit 24 for detecting the second motor 112b, and an impurity detection unit 25 for detecting the impurity content in the washing water flowing out of the foreign matter separation device 112 may be provided. By providing one or more of the weight detection unit 23, the load detection unit 24, and the impurity detection unit 25, the accumulated amount of foreign matter accumulated in the foreign matter separation device 112 can be detected.

[0125] For example, by setting a weight detection unit 23 in the foreign matter separation device 112, the accumulated amount of foreign matter accumulated in the foreign matter separation device 112 can be detected. When the accumulated amount of foreign matter exceeds a predetermined value, a signal "the foreign matter separation device 112 should be cleaned" is sent to the user or such a situation is notified to the control unit 22, thereby reminding the user to clean the foreign matter separation device 112 in time or prompting the control unit 22 to automatically start the cleaning process of the foreign matter separation device 112.

[0126] Alternatively, by providing a load detection unit 24 on the second motor 112d, when the load detection unit 24 detects that the load of the second motor 112d exceeds a predetermined value, it indicates that the accumulated amount of foreign matter in the foreign matter separation device 112 exceeds the predetermined value, and a signal "the foreign matter separation device 112 should be cleaned" is sent to the user or such a situation is notified to the control unit 22, thereby reminding the user to clean the foreign matter separation device 112 in time or prompting the control unit 22 to automatically start the cleaning process of the foreign matter separation device 112.

[0127] Alternatively, by providing an impurity detection unit 25 in the circulating water circuit 106, when the impurity detection unit 25 detects that the washing water circulating in the circulating water circuit 106 contains impurities exceeding the standard, it indicates that the accumulated amount of foreign matter in the foreign matter separation device 112 exceeds a predetermined value, and a signal of "the foreign matter separation device 112 should be cleaned" is sent to the user or such a situation is notified to the control unit 22, thereby reminding the user to clean the foreign matter separation device 112 in time or prompting the control unit 22 to automatically start the cleaning process of the foreign matter separation device 112.

[0128] In addition, the control unit 22 can be configured to simultaneously provide a weight detection unit 23, a load detection unit 24 and an impurity detection unit 25 in the washing machine 100. When the accumulated amount of foreign matter detected by any one of the weight detection unit 23, the load detection unit 24 and the impurity detection unit 25 exceeds a predetermined value, the control unit 22 controls the foreign matter separation device 112 to start cleaning.

[0129] In this way, by providing the weight detection unit 23, the load detection unit 24 or the impurity detection unit 25, the foreign matter separation device 112 can be cleaned only when it is necessary, which can reduce the amount of water used and save costs.

[0130] As described above, by providing the cleaning water channel 110, the foreign matter separator 112 can be fully rinsed with an external water source, and foreign matter accumulated in the foreign matter separator 112 can be effectively discharged from the washing machine.

[0131] The specific embodiments of the present invention are described in detail above, but it should be clear to those skilled in the art that the present invention is not limited to the specific embodiments described in this specification. The present invention can be modified and altered in various ways within the scope of the claims, which are all included in the protection scope of the present invention.

[0132] Industrial Applicability

[0133] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a washing machine capable of sufficiently cleaning a foreign matter separator.

Claims

1. A washing machine, wherein: The washing machine includes: shell; an outer tank disposed in the outer shell; A washing tank, which is arranged in the outer tank and is used to accommodate washings, and the washing tank is rotatable; A first motor, which is used to drive the washing tub to rotate; a circulating water circuit, which is used to circulate the washing water in the outer tank; a discharge water passage, wherein a drain valve is provided on the discharge water passage, and the washing water in the outer tub can be discharged to the outside of the washing machine through the discharge water passage by opening the drain valve; a foreign matter separation device, which is arranged in the circulating water channel and is used to separate foreign matter contained in the washing water flowing through the circulating water channel; a pump unit disposed in the circulating water path, and driving the pump unit to circulate the washing water between the outer tank and the foreign matter separator and to separate foreign matter by the foreign matter separator; a control unit, which is used to control the operation of the washing machine; and A clean water channel, which is used to connect an external water source and the foreign matter separation device, The washing machine further includes a water supply path for supplying water from the external water source to the outer tub, wherein the cleaning water path shares a portion of the water path with the water supply path. A diversion structure is provided on the downstream side of the external water source. The shunt structure has: an inlet through which water from the external water source is introduced; a first discharge port, which is connected to the foreign matter separation device via the clean water path; and a second discharge port, which is communicated with the outer tank, The diversion structure is formed into a substantially U-shape. The inlet is located at one end of the diverter structure, the first outlet is located near the bottom of the diverter structure, and the second outlet is located at the other end of the diverter structure. The washing machine further includes a water inlet valve disposed between the external water source and the diversion structure. The control unit controls the water inlet valve so that: supplying water at a first water pressure so that water from the external water source is supplied to the outer tub via the second discharge port during water supply in a washing step and a rinsing step; and During at least a portion of a cleaning process for cleaning the foreign matter separation device, water is supplied at a second water pressure lower than the first water pressure so that water from the external water source cannot reach the second discharge outlet and is supplied to the foreign matter separation device via the first discharge outlet and the cleaning water path.

2. A washing machine, wherein: The washing machine includes: shell; an outer tank disposed in the outer shell; A washing tank, which is arranged in the outer tank and is used to accommodate washings, and the washing tank is rotatable; A first motor, which is used to drive the washing tub to rotate; a circulating water circuit, which is used to circulate the washing water in the outer tank; a discharge water passage, wherein a drain valve is provided on the discharge water passage, and the washing water in the outer tub can be discharged to the outside of the washing machine through the discharge water passage by opening the drain valve; a foreign matter separation device, which is arranged in the circulating water channel and is used to separate foreign matter contained in the washing water flowing through the circulating water channel; a pump unit disposed in the circulating water path, and driving the pump unit to circulate the washing water between the outer tank and the foreign matter separator and to separate foreign matter by the foreign matter separator; a control unit, which is used to control the operation of the washing machine; and A clean water channel, which is used to connect an external water source and the foreign matter separation device, The washing machine further includes a water supply path for supplying water from the external water source to the outer tub, wherein the cleaning water path shares a portion of the water path with the water supply path. A diversion structure is provided on the downstream side of the external water source. The shunt structure has: an inlet through which water from the external water source is introduced; a first discharge port, which is connected to the foreign matter separation device via the clean water path; and a second discharge port, which is communicated with the outer tank, The first discharge outlet is located on the upstream side of the second discharge outlet, or the first discharge outlet and the second discharge outlet are respectively located on two waterways branching from the inlet, The washing machine also includes: a control valve for opening or closing the second discharge port; and A water inlet valve is arranged between the external water source and the diversion structure, The control unit controls the water inlet valve and the control valve so that: During water supply in the washing step and the rinsing step, the water inlet valve and the control valve are both opened, and water from the external water source is supplied to the outer tub via the second discharge port; and During at least a portion of a cleaning process for cleaning the foreign matter separation device, the water inlet valve is open and the control valve is closed, and water from the external water source is supplied to the foreign matter separation device only via the first discharge port and the cleaning water path.

3. The washing machine according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The control unit controls so that during at least a portion of the time period during the cleaning process of cleaning the foreign matter separation device, water from the external water source flows into the foreign matter separation device via the cleaning water path in a direction opposite to the direction of the water flow when the washing water passes through the foreign matter separation device during the circulation process, and is discharged via the discharge water path.

4. The washing machine according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The foreign matter separator is cleaned by the cleaning water passage while the drain valve is opened to drain the wash water in the outer tub.

5. The washing machine according to claim 3, wherein: The foreign matter separator is cleaned by the cleaning water passage while the drain valve is opened to drain the wash water in the outer tub.

6. The washing machine according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The foreign matter separation device is a centrifugal separation device, The centrifugal separation device comprises: case; a rotating drum rotatably disposed in the housing; and A second motor is used to drive the rotating drum to rotate. During at least a portion of a cleaning process for cleaning the foreign matter separator, the control unit controls the second motor so that the rotating drum rotates at a rotation speed lower than that during centrifugal separation.

7. The washing machine according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: A water supply switching unit is provided on the downstream side of the external water source in the cleaning water path, and the water supply switching unit is configured to open or cut off the water supply from the external water source to the foreign matter separation device. During at least a portion of a cleaning process for cleaning the foreign matter separation device, the control unit controls the water supply switching unit to continuously or intermittently supply water from the external water source to the foreign matter separation device.

8. The washing machine according to claim 6, wherein: A water supply switching unit is provided on the downstream side of the external water source in the cleaning water path, and the water supply switching unit is configured to open or cut off the water supply from the external water source to the foreign matter separation device. During at least a portion of a cleaning process for cleaning the foreign matter separation device, the control unit controls the water supply switching unit to continuously or intermittently supply water from the external water source to the foreign matter separation device.

9. The washing machine according to claim 8, wherein: During continuous or intermittent water supply from the external water source to the foreign matter separator, the rotating drum performs any of forward and reverse switching rotation, intermittent rotation, and unidirectional continuous rotation at a rotation speed lower than that during centrifugal separation.

10. The washing machine according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The washing machine further comprises a detection unit for detecting an accumulated amount of foreign matter at the foreign matter separation device. When the accumulated amount of foreign matter detected by the detection unit exceeds a predetermined value, the control unit controls to supply water from the external water source to the foreign matter separation device during at least a portion of a cleaning process for cleaning the foreign matter separation device.

11. The washing machine according to claim 10, wherein: The detection unit includes at least one of the following devices: a weight detection unit for detecting the weight of the foreign matter separation device; a load detection unit for detecting a load of a motor of the foreign matter separation device; and A foreign matter detecting unit detects the content of foreign matter in the washing water flowing out of the foreign matter separating device.

12. The washing machine according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: A flow channel cross-sectional area of ​​at least a portion of the cleaning water channel gradually decreases as it moves from the external water source toward the foreign matter separation device.

13. The washing machine according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The foreign matter separation device has a water inlet, and water from the clean water path enters the foreign matter separation device through the water inlet. A height difference between the water inlet and the external water source in a vertical direction is greater than 40% of a height of the washing machine.

14. The washing machine according to claim 6, wherein: The foreign matter separation device has a water inlet, and water from the clean water path enters the foreign matter separation device through the water inlet. The water inlet is configured to allow water from the cleaning water channel to flow toward the inner circumferential surface of the rotating drum.

15. The washing machine according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: A detergent storage section is provided in the cleaning water path, storing a detergent capable of improving the ability to remove foreign matter accumulated in the foreign matter separation device. When water supplied from the external water source to the foreign matter separation device flows through the detergent storage section, at least a portion of the detergent stored in the detergent storage section enters the water.

16. The washing machine according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: An atmosphere opening is provided at a position downstream of the external water source in the cleaning water channel, and the atmosphere opening is used to prevent the washing water from flowing back to the external water source. An overflow port is provided at a position downstream of the atmosphere opening of the clean water channel. The washing machine further includes an overflow water channel that connects the overflow port with the discharge water channel, or connects the overflow port with a portion of the circulation water channel that is on an upstream side relative to the foreign matter separator.

17. A washing machine, wherein: The washing machine includes: shell; an outer tank disposed in the outer shell; A washing tank, which is arranged in the outer tank and is used to accommodate washings, and the washing tank is rotatable; A first motor, which is used to drive the washing tub to rotate; a circulating water circuit, which is used to circulate the washing water in the outer tank; a discharge water passage, wherein a drain valve is provided on the discharge water passage, and the washing water in the outer tub can be discharged to the outside of the washing machine through the discharge water passage by opening the drain valve; a foreign matter separation device, which is arranged in the circulating water channel and is used to separate foreign matter contained in the washing water flowing through the circulating water channel; a pump unit disposed in the circulating water path, and driving the pump unit to circulate the washing water between the outer tank and the foreign matter separator and to separate foreign matter by the foreign matter separator; a control unit, which is used to control the operation of the washing machine; and A clean water channel, which is used to connect an external water source and the foreign matter separation device, The control unit controls so that, during at least a portion of a cleaning process for cleaning the foreign matter separator, water from the external water source flows into the foreign matter separator via the cleaning water path in a direction opposite to a water flow direction of the washing water when the washing water passes through the foreign matter separator during a circulation process, and is discharged via the discharge water path. The foreign matter separator is cleaned by using the cleaning water path during the drainage period when the drain valve is opened to drain the washing water in the outer tank. The cleaning water channel and the circulating water channel share a portion of the water channel, or the cleaning water channel is provided independently of the circulating water channel.

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