washing machine

Abstract

The problem is to provide a washing machine that improves cleaning performance by enhancing the cleaning effect of water containing microbubbles. The solution involves a washing machine comprising: a water tank; a water supply valve; a water inlet box that receives water supplied via the water supply valve and fills the water tank; a pressure tank located downstream of the water supply valve that temporarily stores the water supplied via the water supply valve along with air; a microbubble generator connected to the water inlet box that causes microbubbles to be released from the water flowing out of the pressure tank; and a microbubble water flow path that guides the water flowing into the water inlet box from the microbubble generator to a predetermined position within the water inlet box.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Embodiments of the present invention relate to washing machines. Background Technology

[0002] Previously, there has been interest in technologies that use microbubble water, containing micron-sized or ultrafine bubbles, in washing machines to improve cleaning performance. However, in conventional designs, there is still room for improvement in fully utilizing the cleaning power of the microbubble water. Furthermore, it is important to ensure that the microbubble water is supplied to the water tank without causing the microbubbles to disappear.

[0003] Existing technical documents:

[0004] Patent documents:

[0005] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2019-187686 Summary of the Invention

[0006] The problem that the invention aims to solve:

[0007] Therefore, washing machines that provide improved cleaning performance by enhancing the cleaning effect of water containing microbubbles are developed.

[0008] Methods used to solve problems:

[0009] The washing machine of this embodiment includes: a water tank; a water supply valve connected to an external water supply source; a water inlet box that receives water supplied from the external water supply source via the water supply valve and fills the water tank with water; a pressure tank located downstream of the water supply valve for temporarily storing the water supplied by the water supply valve along with air; a microbubble generator connected to the water inlet box to precipitate microbubbles in the water flowing out of the pressure tank; and a microbubble water flow path that guides the water flowing into the water inlet box through the microbubble generator to a predetermined position within the water inlet box.

[0010] According to the above implementation method, the cleaning effect of microbubble water containing microbubbles can be improved, thereby improving the cleaning performance. Attached Figure Description

[0011] Figure 1 This is a cross-sectional view that schematically represents an example of the washing machine according to the first embodiment.

[0012] Figure 2 This is an external view showing an example of the configuration of the pressure dissolution apparatus according to the first embodiment.

[0013] Figure 3This is a plan view showing an example of the positional relationship between the detergent dispenser and the finishing agent dispenser according to the first embodiment.

[0014] Figure 4 It is along Figure 3 The X4-X4 line represents a cross-sectional view of an example of the general configuration of the detergent box according to the first embodiment.

[0015] Figure 5 It is along Figure 3 The X5-X5 line represents a cross-sectional view of an example of the general configuration of the finishing agent box according to the first embodiment.

[0016] Figure 6 It is along Figure 3 The X6-X6 line represents a cross-sectional view of an example of the general configuration of the pressurized melting apparatus according to the first embodiment.

[0017] Figure 7 It is along Figure 6 The X7-X7 line represents a cross-sectional view of an example of the pressurized tank according to the first embodiment.

[0018] Figure 8 It is along Figure 6 The X8-X8 line represents a cross-sectional view of an example of the pressurized tank according to the first embodiment.

[0019] Figure 9 This is a cross-sectional view showing an example of the microbubble generator according to the first embodiment.

[0020] Figure 10 It is along Figure 9 The X10-X10 line represents a cross-sectional view of an example of the microbubble generator according to the first embodiment.

[0021] Figure 11 This is a partial cross-sectional view showing an example of the general configuration of the water injection box according to the first embodiment.

[0022] Figure 12 It is along Figure 11 The X12-X12 line represents a cross-sectional view of an example of the general configuration of the water injection box according to the first embodiment.

[0023] Figure 13 It is Figure 4 The arrow X13 is enlarged to show a cross-sectional view of an example of water flowing out from the second opening according to the first embodiment.

[0024] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures:

[0025] 10...washing machine, 12...water tank, 22a, 22b, 22c...water supply valve, 25...treatment agent flow path, 251...outlet, 30...water injection box, 301...bottom surface, 302...inner wall, 33...treatment agent receiving part, 331...treatment agent dispensing port, 40...pressurization tank, 50...microbubble generator, 71...flow path forming component, 72...microbubble water flow path, 73, 74...wall, 741...opening, 81...outlet. Detailed Implementation

[0026] Hereinafter, an embodiment will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Furthermore, in this embodiment, terms such as "first" and "second" used to describe constituent elements are only used to distinguish similar constituent elements and do not imply superiority or inferiority among constituent elements or temporal factors.

[0027] Figure 1 The washing machine 10 shown is a horizontal axis type with the rotating shaft of the drum 13 facing horizontally or an inclined axis type with the rotating shaft tilted downwards towards the rear. The washing machine 10 includes an outer casing 11, a water tank 12, a rotating drum 13, a motor 14, a drain path 15, a drain valve 16, a filter device 17, a circulation path 18, and a circulation pump 19. Furthermore, in Figure 1 In this design, the side facing the washing machine 10, i.e., the lower vertical side, is designated as the lower side of the washing machine 10, and the side opposite to the facing surface, i.e., the upper vertical side, is designated as the upper side of the washing machine 10. Furthermore, the washing machine is not limited to a drum type; it can also be a vertical washing machine in which the rotation axis of the drum faces the vertical direction.

[0028] exist Figure 1 In the washing machine 10 shown, the water tank 12 is disposed within the outer casing 11 and elastically supported by a suspension (not shown). The rotating drum 13 is rotatably disposed within the water tank 12 and is driven to rotate by the motor 14. The drain path 15 is a path for draining the water stored in the water tank 12 to the outside of the washing machine 10. The drain path 15 is, for example, constituted by a flexible drain hose, one end of which is connected to the drain valve 16, and the other end of which is led out of the washing machine 10.

[0029] The drain valve 16 is a liquid-use on / off valve that can be opened and closed electromagnetically. The drain valve 16 is located between the drain outlet 121 at the bottom of the water tank 12 and the drain path 15. The drain valve 16 opens and closes the drain path 15 based on a control signal from a control device (not shown). A filter device 17 is located between the drain outlet 121 and the drain valve 16. The filter device 17 has an internal mesh filter 171 through which lint and dirt contained in the water passing through the filter device 17 are captured.

[0030] The circulation path 18 is a path for drawing up water stored in the water tank 12 and supplying the drawn-up water back into the water tank 12 from the top. The circulation path 18 is provided inside the water tank 12. One end of the circulation path 18 is connected to the drain outlet 121 of the water tank 12 via the filter device 17, and the other end is connected to the nozzle portion 181 provided at the top of the water tank 12. Details of the nozzle portion 181 are not shown, but it is configured so that the water sprayed from the nozzle portion 181 is directed towards the center of the water tank 12.

[0031] A circulation pump 19 is installed on the circulation path 18. If the drainage path 15 is closed by the drain valve 16, the circulation pump 19 draws water from the water tank 12 through the drain port 121 and refills the water tank 12 with water from the nozzle 181. Thus, the circulation pump 19 circulates the water stored in the water tank 12 through the circulation path 18.

[0032] In addition, the washing machine 10 includes a connection port 21, water supply valves 22a, 22b, and 22c, a first water supply path 23, a second water supply path 24, a water inlet box 30, a pressurized dissolving device 40, and a microbubble generator 50. The connection port 21 is connected to an external water source such as a tap via a water supply hose 100. The water supply valves 22a, 22b, and 22c are liquid-use on / off valves that can be opened and closed electromagnetically. The water supply valves 22a, 22b, and 22c are connected to the connection port 21 and have the function of individually opening and closing the first water supply path 23 (which in this case is flow paths 25 and 26) and the second water supply path 24.

[0033] Water supply route 23 and water supply route 24 are as follows Figure 1 As shown, the paths branch off from the connection port 21 and converge at the water injection box 30 along their respective paths, reaching the water tank 12 via the water injection box 30. That is, the first water supply path 23 and the second water supply path 24 are indirectly connected to the water tank 12 via the water injection box 30.

[0034] The first water supply path 23 is a path where water supplied from an external water source to the connection port 21 is branched into two streams, each passing through water supply valves 22a and 22b directly to the water injection box 30. The second water supply path 24 is a path where water supplied from an external water source to the connection port 21, passing through water supply valve 22c, and then passing through the pressurization dissolving device 40 and the microbubble generator 50 before being supplied to the water injection box 30. Furthermore, the second water supply path 24 has the function of supplying microbubble water, which is formed by containing microbubbles in the water supplied from the external water source, into the water tank 12.

[0035] Additionally, the first water supply path 23 includes a detergent flow path 25 serving as a treatment agent flow path, and a finishing agent flow path 26. The detergent flow path 25 is as follows... Figure 1 As shown, this is the flow path connecting the water supply valve 22a to the detergent dispenser 33. That is, the detergent flow path 25 guides water that has passed through the water supply valve 22a to the detergent dispenser 33. In this case, the detergent flow path 25 is connected to the detergent dispenser 33 while the detergent dispenser 33 is contained within the water filling box 30.

[0036] Finishing agent flow path 26 Figure 1 As shown, this is the flow path connecting the water supply valve 22b to the finishing agent box 34. That is, the finishing agent flow path 26 is the flow path that guides the water that has passed through the water supply valve 22b to the finishing agent box 34. In this case, the finishing agent flow path 26 is connected to the finishing agent box 34 while the finishing agent box 34 is housed in the water injection box 30.

[0037] Detergent flow path 25 and finishing agent flow path 26, as shown Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, they have outlets 251 and 261 respectively. Figure 4 The outlet 251 of the detergent flow path 25 shown is the portion from which water flowing in the detergent flow path 25 exits. With the water supply valve 22a opening the detergent flow path 25, water that has passed through the water supply valve 22a flows through the detergent flow path 25 and out of the outlet 251 into the detergent container 33. Afterwards, Figure 4 The flow is in the direction indicated by the hollow arrow A.

[0038] Figure 5 The outlet 261 of the finishing agent flow path 26 shown is the portion from which water flowing in the finishing agent flow path 26 exits. With the water supply valve 22b opening the finishing agent flow path 26, water that has passed through the water supply valve 22b flows through the finishing agent flow path 26 and exits from outlet 261 into the finishing agent box 34. Afterwards, Figure 5 The liquid flows in the direction indicated by the hollow arrow B. Furthermore, the detergent flow path 25 and the finishing agent flow path 26 can be integrally formed with the water injection box 30, or they can be composed of components different from the water injection box 30.

[0039] The water filling box 30 is, for example, made of resin and formed into a generally rectangular box shape with an internal space. The water filling box 30 has the function of receiving water supplied from an external water source via water supply valves 22a, 22b, and 22c and filling water into the water tank 12. The water filling box 30, as... Figures 1 to 5 As shown, it includes a water inlet 31, a connecting part 32, a detergent box 33, a finishing agent box 34, and a standing part 35. The water inlet 31 is as follows... Figure 1 As shown, it is located at the lower part of the water injection box 30, connecting the water injection box 30 to the outside, and opening towards the water tank 12.

[0040] Connecting part 32 Figure 2As shown, a wall surface located within the water injection box 30, opposite the pressurized dissolving device 40, connects the water injection box 30 and the pressurized dissolving device 40. In this case, water flowing from the pressurized dissolving device 40 flows into the water injection box 30 through the connecting part 32.

[0041] The detergent dispenser 33 and finishing agent dispenser 34 are made of resin containers, for example, and are arranged to be stored in the water injection box 30. The detergent dispenser 33 and finishing agent dispenser 34 function as treatment agent receiving parts, located at a position separated from the bottom surface 301 of the water injection box 30, receiving cleaning treatment agents from the user. Cleaning treatment agents include detergent, fabric softener, fragrance, bleach, etc. The detergent dispenser 33 and finishing agent dispenser 34 are located downstream of a corresponding water supply valve 22a, 22b on the first water supply path 23, and when stored in the water injection box 30, they are respectively positioned to receive water supplied to the water injection box 30 via each water supply valve 22a, 22b.

[0042] The detergent dispenser 33 is configured to dispense powdered or liquid detergent, for example. The detergent dispenser 33 has a dispensing port 331. The dispensing port 331 is as follows: Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, a through-hole detergent dispenser 33 is formed, guiding the detergent received by the detergent dispenser 33 towards the bottom surface 301 of the water filling box 30. In this case, the detergent dispensing port 331 faces the bottom opening of the water filling box 30. With the detergent dispenser 33 housed inside the water filling box 30, the user dispenses powdered or liquid detergent into the water filling box 30 via the detergent dispensing port 331.

[0043] Finishing agent container 34 is configured, for example, to hold finishing agents such as fabric softener or fragrance. Figure 5 The diagram shows a siphon mechanism 341. The siphon mechanism 341 is located at the bottom of the finishing agent box 34, connecting the outside and inside of the finishing agent box 34.

[0044] The water mixture, formed by water and finishing agent, supplied to the finishing agent box 34 via the finishing agent flow path 26, flows out of the finishing agent box 34 via the siphon mechanism 341. That is, if the water level in the finishing agent box 34 rises due to water supply and the mixed water fills above the siphon mechanism 341, the mixed water begins to flow from the water passage 342, and then, based on the siphon principle, the mixed water continues to flow downwards from the finishing agent box 34. The mixed water flowing out of the finishing agent box 34 flows along the bottom surface 301 of the water injection box 30 and is supplied to the water tank 12 via the water inlet 31.

[0045] like Figure 4As shown, an upright portion 35 is formed by raising the bottom surface 301 of the water injection box 30. A portion of the bottom surface 301 is configured with multiple facets having different inclination angles, such as a first facet 361, a second facet 362, and a third facet 363. In this case, the first facet 361, the second facet 362, and the third facet 363 form multiple stepped shapes. Each facet 361, 362, and 363 gradually slopes upward in a direction away from the upright portion 35. The first facet 361 is continuously formed at the end of the upright portion 35. The second facet 362 is an inclined surface connecting the first facet 361 and the third facet 363. The second facet 362 is as follows... Figure 4 As shown, its inclination is steeper than that of the first face 361 and the third face 363. The first face 361 and the third face 363 are not limited to an inclination configuration, but can also be in a state that is approximately parallel to the mounting surface of the washing machine 10, i.e., horizontal.

[0046] Pressure dissolving device 40 Figure 1 As shown, it is installed on the second water supply path 24 and upstream of the water injection box 30. The pressurized dissolving device 40 has the function of pressurizing and dissolving air components into the water supplied from an external water source. In this case, the pressurized dissolving device 40 pressurizes the water in the pressurized tank 41 and dissolves the air components in the pressurized tank 41 into the water. The pressurized dissolving device 40 is as follows: Figure 6 As shown, this forms the flow path for water to flow in the direction of the black arrow C.

[0047] Pressure dissolving device 40 Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, the pressure tank 41 includes an inlet 42, an outlet 43, a water guide 44, a partition wall 45, and an air inlet 46. The pressure tank 41 can temporarily store water supplied through the water supply valve 22c along with air. The pressure tank 41 is configured as a container with airtightness, watertightness, and pressure resistance. Furthermore, the pressure tank 41 is fixed to the water filling box 30, for example, by a plurality of screw components (not shown). Moreover, pressure resistance means that even if the pressure of water flowing in from an external water source, in this case tap water pressure, causes an increase in the internal pressure inside the pressure tank 41, deformation of the pressure tank 41 is suppressed, and airtightness and watertightness are maintained.

[0048] In this embodiment, the pressurized tank 41 is configured such that multiple tank components are combined into two tank components 411 and 412 in this case, thereby forming a space inside the pressurized tank 41. Furthermore, the pressurized tank 41 is not limited to the configuration of combining two tank components; it may also be configured to combine three or more tank components.

[0049] The pressurized tank 41 has a first tank component 411, a second tank component 412, and a sealing component 413. The first tank component 411 and the second tank component 412 are formed, for example, from synthetic resin. In this case, the mating portions of the first tank component 411 and the second tank component 412, i.e., the joining portions, are joined by welding, for example, vibration welding or ultrasonic welding. That is, the first tank component 411 and the second tank component 412 are joined by welding each other. In this way, by integrating multiple tank components 411 and 412 through welding, airtightness and watertightness between the multiple tank components 411 and 412 can be ensured. Furthermore, the joining of the multiple tank components 411 and 412 is not limited to welding; for example, it can also be configured to be joined by screws or adhesives.

[0050] Sealing component 413, such as Figure 6 and Figure 9 As shown, it is provided on the outer peripheral surface of the other end of the outlet portion 43. The sealing member 413 is, for example, an O-ring made of synthetic resin.

[0051] Entrance 42 Figure 7 As shown, for example, it is made of synthetic resin and is cylindrical in shape, serving as the passage for water to flow from the outside to the inside of the pressurized tank 41. Additionally, the outlet 43, as... Figure 6 As shown, the part, for example, is made of synthetic resin and is cylindrical in shape, through which water flows from the inside of the pressurized tank 41 to the outside. In this embodiment, the inlet 42 and the outlet 43 are provided in the same tank component 411 among the multiple tank components 411, 412.

[0052] Furthermore, one or both of the inlet portion 42 or the outlet portion 43 can be directly connected to the water filling box 30. Direct connection means that the inlet portion 42 or the outlet portion 43 is connected to the water filling box 30 without any other components intervening. In this embodiment, the inlet portion 42 is as follows... Figure 7 As shown, it is located on the upper side of the first tank component 411 and is connected to the water supply valve 22c via a pressure-resistant hose 101. In this way, water supplied to the second water supply path 24 is introduced into the pressurized tank 41 via the pressure-resistant hose 101 and through the inlet 42.

[0053] Export Department 43 Figure 6As shown, one end of the outlet 43 is connected to the bottom of the first tank component 411, and the other end is connected to the connecting portion 32. That is, the first tank component 411 is directly connected to the connecting portion 32 via the outlet 43. In this case, the other end of the outlet 43 is configured to be insertable into the connecting portion 32. Furthermore, by pressing the sealing member 413 with the outer peripheral surface of the outlet 43 and the inner peripheral surface of the connecting portion 32, the outlet 43 and the connecting portion 32 are connected in a watertight state. Thus, in this embodiment, the outlet 43, which is either the inlet 42 or the outlet 43, is directly connected to the water filling box 30. Furthermore, in this embodiment, drainage is performed from the outlet 43 using only the water pressure (i.e., static water pressure) of the water stored in the pressurized tank 41, without requiring a dedicated pump or other drive source for drainage.

[0054] Additionally, the first tank component 411 has a water guiding section 44. The water guiding section 44 is as follows... Figure 6 and Figure 7 As shown, the water guide 44 is connected to the inlet 42 and extends towards the second tank component 412, for guiding water supplied from the inlet 42 to the pressurized tank 41 towards the second tank component 412. The water guide 44 is, for example, formed in a cylindrical shape, with one end attached to the inner wall of the first tank component 411, and the other end, the front end 441, open. Furthermore, the front end 441 of the water guide 44 is as follows... Figure 7 As shown, it is configured to have a gap G relative to the inner wall of the second tank component 412.

[0055] In this case, a recess 414 is formed on the inner wall of the second tank component 412, opposite the front end portion 441 of the water guide portion 44. The recess 414 is formed, for example, by making the inner wall of the second tank component 412 recessed outward in a circular shape relative to the inner wall of the periphery of the recess 414. The recess 414 is configured to accommodate the front end portion 441 of the water guide portion 44. The inner diameter of the recess 414 and the outer diameter of the front end portion 441 can be set to a fitting tolerance relationship, for example, a clearance fit, a tight fit, or an intermediate fit relationship.

[0056] The water guiding section 44 includes a water guide port 442, a partition wall 443, and a water passage section 444. The water guide port 442 is formed on the outer peripheral surface of the water guiding section 44 and is connected to the inlet section 42. Water that has passed through the inlet section 42 flows out of the water guiding section 44 through the water guide port 442. The partition wall 443 is as follows... Figure 7 As shown, it is located on the side of the first tank component 411, which is closer to the water inlet 442 than the water guide 442 in the extending direction of the water guide section 44. The partition wall 443 functions as a wall to close the water guide section 44 and is used to convert the water flow into the water guide section 44 into the extending direction of the water guide section 44.

[0057] A water passage 444 is formed at the bottom of the water guide 44, extending through the water guide 44 in the thickness direction. The water passage 444 is used to allow water passing through the water guide 44 to fall into the pressurization tank 41. In this way, the water flowing out and falling from the water passage 444 brings in air above the water surface stored inside the pressurization tank 41 and collides violently with it relative to the water surface. As a result, the energy of the water falling from the water passage 444 during the collision is used to agitate the water stored inside the pressurization tank 41, promoting the dissolution of air components inside the pressurization tank 41. Furthermore, as described above, a gap G is formed between the front end 441 of the water guide 44 and the inner wall of the second tank component 412 opposite to the front end 441, so water flows out from the gap G, but the amount flowing out is less than the amount of water flowing out from the water passage 444.

[0058] like Figure 6 As shown, a partition wall 45 is erected from the bottom inside the pressurization tank 41, horizontally dividing a portion of the space inside the pressurization tank 41. The partition wall 45 is provided in the second tank component 412 among the plurality of tank components 411, 412. In this case, the water guide 44 is as follows... Figure 6 As shown, the water passage 44 extends to a position beyond the partition wall 45 relative to the inlet 42 when viewed from above, and discharges water passing through the water guide 44 at this position. That is, the water passage 444 is arranged at a position beyond the partition wall 45 relative to the inlet 42 in the extending direction of the water guide 44.

[0059] Therefore, as Figure 6 As indicated by the black arrow C, the water injected from the water inlet 444 is agitated at the water surface in the space between the partition wall 45 and the inner wall of the second tank component 412, thereby efficiently bringing the water in the pressurized tank 41 into contact with the air. This promotes the dissolution of air components relative to the water in the pressurized tank 41. Furthermore, by positioning the water inlet 444 as far away from the outlet 43 as possible when viewed from above, the contact time between the water and air in the pressurized tank 41 is prolonged, thus allowing more air components to dissolve into the water.

[0060] In addition, such as Figure 8 As shown, a slit 451 is formed on the partition wall 45. The slit 451 has the function of blocking bubbles with a particle size larger than microbubbles. Water that is located below the upper end of the partition wall 45 in the water flowing out of the water passage 44 after passing through the water guide 44 flows into the space on the outlet 43 side through the slit 451 of the partition wall 45. At this time, relatively large bubbles, such as those on the millimeter scale, generated by the collision of water falling from the water passage 444 with the water surface, cannot pass through the slit 451 and do not flow into the space on the outlet 43 side, and thus disappear.

[0061] Air inlet section 46 Figure 6As shown, a pressure tank 41 is provided on the upper side of the first tank component 411, allowing the interior of the pressure tank 41 to communicate with the outside in an openable and closable manner. In this case, the air inlet 46 is connected to the water injection box 30. The air inlet 46 has an air inlet pipe 461 and an air intake valve 462. If the air intake valve 462 is open, outside air is supplied to the pressure tank 41 via the air inlet pipe 461.

[0062] The intake valve 462 is, for example, a check valve. In this case, the intake valve 462 functions to allow air to flow from the outside of the pressurized tank 41 towards the inside of the pressurized tank 41, while blocking air from the inside of the pressurized tank 41 towards the outside. The intake valve 462 can be configured to close if the pressure inside the pressurized tank 41 becomes higher than atmospheric pressure, and open if the pressure inside the pressurized tank 41 becomes close to atmospheric pressure. Furthermore, the intake valve 462 is not limited to a check valve configuration; it can also be configured as a solenoid valve for air.

[0063] Next, the state of air components dissolved in water within the pressure tank 41 of the pressure dissolving device 40 will be described. In this embodiment, the pressure dissolving device 40, for example, can pressurize the pressure tank 41 using only tap water pressure by ensuring that the amount of water flowing into the pressure tank 41 is greater than the amount flowing out of the pressure tank 41. In this case, if the water supply valve 22c is opened when the pressure inside the pressure tank 41 is atmospheric pressure, that is, in the initial stage when there is almost no water remaining in the pressure tank 41, the residual water in the water flowing in from the water guide 44 that has not flowed out from the outlet 43 remains in the pressure tank 41, and the water level inside the pressure tank 41 rises. At this time, the air inside the pressure tank 41 is compressed by the rising water surface, thereby increasing the pressure inside the pressure tank 41 and closing the air intake valve 462.

[0064] Subsequently, if water continues to flow into the water inlet 44 and the water level in the pressure tank 41 rises to a predetermined level, the pressure inside the pressure tank 41 balances with the pressure of the water flowing in from the external water source, which is the tap water pressure in this case. As a result, the amount of water flowing in from the water inlet 44 is approximately equal to the amount of water flowing out of the pressure tank 41 from the outlet 43, and the maximum pressure inside the pressure tank 41 is close to the tap water pressure in this case. In this way, as the pressure inside the pressure tank 41 rises to a level higher than atmospheric pressure, the air inside the pressure tank 41 easily dissolves into the water stored inside the pressure tank 41. That is, by passing water supplied from an external water source through the pressure dissolving device 40, water that dissolves more air components into the water supplied downstream of the pressure dissolving device 40 can be supplied compared to ordinary water that does not pass through the pressure dissolving device 40.

[0065] Then, if water is supplied to the pressure tank 41, for example, after a predetermined time has elapsed, and the water supply valve 22c is closed, the pressure inside the pressure tank 41 decreases as the water level drops, and the pressure inside the pressure tank 41 also decreases to near atmospheric pressure. The air intake valve 462 then opens, introducing outside air into the pressure tank 41. In this way, by repeatedly opening and closing the water supply valve 22c, the pressurized dissolving device 40 can repeatedly spray water containing dissolved air components.

[0066] The microbubble generator 50 has the function of generating microbubbles in the water flowing from the pressurized tank 41. The microbubble generator 50, as... Figure 6 and Figure 9 As shown, the microbubble generator 50 is installed while being supported between the outlet 43 and the connecting portion 32. In this case, the microbubble generator 50 is installed while being sandwiched between the outlet 43 and the connecting portion 32. Alternatively, the microbubble generator 50 can be configured to be fixed by being pressed into the outlet 43 and the connecting portion 32. Furthermore, a sealing member 61 is provided on the outer peripheral surface of the microbubble generator 50. The sealing member 61 is, for example, made of an O-ring made of synthetic resin. Additionally, by pressing the sealing member 61 against the outer peripheral surface of the microbubble generator 50 and the inner peripheral surface of the connecting portion 32, watertightness between the microbubble generator 50 and the connecting portion 32 is ensured.

[0067] The microbubble generator 50 of this embodiment is configured with a diameter and overall length of, for example, several millimeters to tens of millimeters, specifically, a maximum diameter of approximately 15 millimeters and a length of approximately 10 millimeters. The microbubble generator 50 is as follows... Figure 9 As shown, it has a throttling section 51, a straight section 52, and a collision section 53. The throttling section 51 and the straight section 52 form a flow path that causes water to flow in the direction of the black arrow D along the length of the microbubble generator 50.

[0068] A throttling section 51 is located on the inflow side, i.e., the upstream side, of the microbubble generator 50. The throttling section 51 is formed as a truncated cone-shaped tube, where the cross-sectional area of ​​the flow path, i.e., the inner diameter, gradually decreases from the upstream end to the middle section along the length of the microbubble generator 50. A straight section 52 is located on the downstream side of the throttling section 51. The straight section 52 is formed as a cylinder with a constant inner diameter, meaning the cross-sectional area of ​​the flow path, i.e., the area through which the liquid can pass, remains constant; it is a straight tube.

[0069] The collision section 53 is provided at the downstream end of the straight section 52. By locally reducing the cross-sectional area through which water can pass in the microbubble generator 50, the collision section 53 can generate a large number of nano-sized microbubbles in the liquid passing through the microbubble generator 50.

[0070] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the collision part 53 is as follows: Figure 10As shown, for example, it consists of four rod-shaped portions with sharp front ends, protruding from the inner circumferential surface of the straight portion 52 toward the center of its cross-section. The four collision portions 53 are arranged in a state where they are equally spaced apart from each other in the circumferential direction toward the cross-section of the straight portion 52. In this case, the downstream surface of each collision portion 53 is formed as a flat surface. In addition, the area of ​​the gap formed by each collision portion 53 is the minimum cross-sectional area through which water can pass in the microbubble generator 50.

[0071] If water flows upstream of the microbubble generator 50, the flow path cross-sectional area decreases in the throttling section 51, which is formed in a truncated cone shape. Based on Bernoulli's principle in fluid mechanics, the flow velocity increases and cavitation occurs due to decompression. Furthermore, microbubbles are generated by the shear force exerted by the high-speed fluid colliding with the collision section 53. Thus, the microbubble generator 50 can cause a large amount of air dissolved in the water passing through it to be released as microbubbles, supplying a microbubble-rich water with a significantly higher concentration of microbubbles compared to before passing through the microbubble generator 50.

[0072] Here, generally speaking, microbubbles or microbubbles are classified according to their particle size as follows. For example, bubbles with a particle size of 50 nm to less than 1,000 nm, i.e., nanometer-sized bubbles, are called ultrafine bubbles. In contrast, bubbles with a particle size of several μm to 100 μm, i.e., micrometer-sized bubbles, are called microbubbles. Furthermore, in this embodiment, nanometer-sized microbubbles, ultrafine bubbles, and nanobubbles are all synonymous, meaning bubbles with a particle size of nanometers.

[0073] Nanobubbles interact with surfactants in detergents, preventing the detergent from turning into particles and enhancing cleaning power. Furthermore, due to their small particle size, nanobubbles penetrate deep into fibers, effectively removing stains or residual detergent components—the surfactants—from the cleaned items.

[0074] Furthermore, microbubbles carry a negative charge due to their electrical properties, making them readily adsorbed by electrostatically with positively charged dirt such as sebum on the items being cleaned. The dirt, detached from the items due to the electrostatic reaction with the microbubbles, floats to the surface and remains there due to the buoyancy of the microbubbles. Moreover, the negatively charged microbubbles repel each other and do not combine, dispersing in the liquid, thus preventing the dirt removed from the items from re-adhering to them in the cleaning water.

[0075] In this embodiment, the microbubble generator 50 primarily functions to precipitate nano-sized microbubbles, or nanobubbles. However, by increasing the amount of air dissolved in the water passing through the microbubble generator 50, it is also possible to precipitate microbubbles with larger particle sizes, or microbubbles. This is presumably because if the amount of air dissolved in the water increases, the number of nanobubbles generated when passing through the microbubble generator 50 also increases. As a result, some of the generated nanobubbles combine with each other and develop into microbubbles.

[0076] Furthermore, in this embodiment, a pressurized dissolving device 40 is provided upstream of the microbubble generator 50. Therefore, the amount of air contained in the water passing through the microbubble generator 50 can be increased. Consequently, a large number of nanobubbles and microbubbles can be generated in the water passing through the microbubble generator 50, resulting in the simultaneous attainment of the cleaning effect of nanobubbles and the effect of microbubbles in inhibiting the re-adhesion of dirt.

[0077] Here, water flowing from the microbubble generator 50 is introduced into the water injection box 30 under relatively strong water pressure. Furthermore, when the water flowing from the microbubble generator 50 collides with the inner wall 302 of the water injection box 30, the generated microbubbles may disappear. In this case, it becomes difficult to effectively utilize the cleaning effect of the microbubble water.

[0078] Therefore, in this embodiment, the water injection box 30 is as follows: Figure 11 As shown, the device includes a flow path forming component 71, a microbubble water flow path 72, and wall portions 73 and 74. The flow path forming component 71 opens towards the bottom surface 301 of the water injection box 30, and its open portion is blocked by the bottom surface 301 of the water injection box 30. That is, the flow path forming component 71 covers a portion of the bottom surface 301 of the water injection box 30. At this time, a space is formed between the lower end faces of the side walls 711 and 712 of the flow path forming component 71 and the bottom surface 301 of the water injection box 30. The size of this space is sufficient to allow liquids such as water to pass through.

[0079] The flow path forming component 71, for example, is made of resin and forms part of the water injection box 30. It is installed relative to the bottom surface 301 of the water injection box 30 in a detachable manner, for example, by a snap-fit. The flow path forming component 71 can be composed of different components that are separable from the main component constituting the water injection box 30, i.e., the container-shaped component having the bottom surface 301. In this case, a gap may be formed between the bottom surface 301 of the water injection box 30 and the flow path forming component 71, allowing a small amount of water to pass through, i.e., a gap allowing a smaller amount of water than the water flowing out from the outlet 81 described later to pass through. Furthermore, the installation of the flow path forming component 71 relative to the bottom surface 301 can also be achieved by adhesive bonding or welding, etc.

[0080] Flow path forming component 71, such as Figure 11 As shown, it is positioned below the detergent dispenser 33 and does not overlap with the treatment agent dispensing port 331 when viewed from above. Therefore, it prevents the detergent flowing from the treatment agent dispensing port 331 into the water filling box 30 from falling directly onto the flow path forming member 71.

[0081] Furthermore, the flow path forming component 71 is configured to be approximately L-shaped when viewed from above. Additionally, the two outer surfaces of the flow path forming component 71, located on the outer side of the approximately L-shape, are positioned opposite and adjacent to the inner wall 302 of the water injection box 30. Adjacent means that there are no other components between the flow path forming component 71 and the inner wall 302 of the water injection box 30 opposite to the flow path forming component 71. Therefore, water flowing from the gap between the flow path forming component 71 and the bottom surface 301 to the outside of the microbubble water flow path 72 is not obstructed by other components or structures and easily reaches the inner wall 302.

[0082] The flow path forming component 71 has a flow outlet 81. The flow outlet 81 is as follows: Figure 4 and Figure 11 As shown, the outlet 81 is positioned overlapping the third face 363, connecting the interior and exterior of the flow path forming component 71. Specifically, the outlet 81 is located above the connection portion 32 that connects the microbubble generator 50 to the water injection box 30. Furthermore, the outlet 81 is located below the detergent box 33 and the finishing agent box 34. Additionally, the outlet 81 is as follows... Figure 4 As shown, it is located in the water injection box 30 at a position different from the outlet 251 of the detergent flow path 25.

[0083] In this case, the water outlet 81 is positioned so that the cleaning agent flowing from the treatment agent inlet 331 flows in the direction from the water injection box 30 toward the water tank 12. That is, the water outlet 81 is positioned to flush water formed by the mixture of the cleaning agent injected from the treatment agent inlet 331 and the water flowing from the outlet 251 from upstream inside the water injection box 30. This prevents the cleaning agent from remaining inside the water injection box 30.

[0084] like Figure 12As shown in the text, for example, a drain outlet 81 is formed by cutting a rectangular opening at the lower end of the sidewall 711 of the flow path forming member 71. The drain outlet 81 opens towards the downstream side. The drain outlet 81 is not limited to the configuration of cutting a rectangular opening at the lower end of the sidewall 711 of the flow path forming member 71; it can also be formed by a hole penetrating the sidewall 711. For example, multiple drain outlets 81 are arranged along the length direction of the flow path forming member 71, in this case, three are arranged. In addition, the multiple drain outlets 81 have the same shape and are each arranged at equal intervals. Furthermore, the multiple drain outlets 81 may not have the same shape and may be arranged at unequal intervals. That is, the shape and arrangement position of the multiple drain outlets 81 can be arbitrarily set according to the shape of the bottom surface 301 of the water injection box 30.

[0085] The microbubble water flow path 72 is installed on the second water supply path 24 and is used to guide water flowing into the water injection box 30 after passing through the pressurized dissolving device 40 and the microbubble generator 50 to a predetermined position in the water injection box 30. The microbubble water flow path 72 directs... Figure 11 The liquid is supplied in the direction indicated by the black arrow E. That is, the microbubble water flow path 72 is a flow path used to temporarily guide the microbubble-containing water, which has passed through the pressurized dissolving device 40 and the microbubble generator 50 and been introduced into the water injection box 30, upwards and then downwards. In this case, the outlet 81 functions as the outlet of the microbubble water flow path 72. The microbubble water flow path 72 is as follows... Figure 12 As shown, it is formed in the space S between the bottom surface 301 of the water injection box 30, the side walls 711, 712 and the top surface 713 of the flow path forming component 71.

[0086] like Figure 11 and Figure 12 As shown, wall portions 73 and 74 are formed by rising from the bottom surface 301 of the water injection box 30 along the side walls 711 and 712 of the flow path forming member 71. Furthermore, wall portions 73 and 74 are arranged along the length direction of the flow path forming member 71. The two wall portions 73 and 74 are arranged parallel to each other at a predetermined interval.

[0087] Additionally, a portion of the walls 73 and 74, such as Figure 11 and Figure 12As shown, the protrusions 714 and 715 are respectively sandwiched between the side walls 711 and 712 of the flow path forming member 71. The protrusions 714 and 715 protrude from the top surface 713 of the flow path forming member 71 toward the bottom surface 301 of the water injection box 30, and extend in a straight line from the upstream end of the flow path forming member 71 toward the downstream side. In this case, the protrusions 714 and 715 extend until they reach a position above the third surface 363. Therefore, the space S is partially divided by the protrusions 714 and 715, thereby preventing the microbubble water that has been introduced into the water injection box 30 through the microbubble generator 50 from flowing upward along the bottom surface 301 of the water injection box from flowing out of the space S, i.e., the microbubble water flow path 72.

[0088] Wall portion 73 is provided in the flow path forming member 71 adjacent to the side wall 711 on which the water outlet 81 is formed. On the other hand, wall portion 74 is provided adjacent to the side wall 712, which is located on the opposite side of the flow path forming member 71, i.e., opposite to the inner wall 302 of the water injection box 30. In the following description, wall portion 73 is sometimes referred to as the first wall portion 73, and wall portion 74 as the second wall portion 74. The first wall portion 73 and the second wall portion 74 horizontally separate the water flow in the microbubble water flow path 72. Furthermore, wall portions 73 and 74 can be integrally formed with the water injection box 30 or separate from the water injection box 30.

[0089] Furthermore, the first wall portion 73 and the second wall portion 74 each have openings 731 and 741, respectively. In the following description, opening 731 is sometimes referred to as the first opening 731, and opening 741 is sometimes referred to as the second opening 741. The first opening 731 is, for example, formed as a slit extending through the first wall portion 73. Therefore, the water flowing in the microbubble water flow path 72, after passing through the first opening 731 and the water outlet 81, flows downward into the water injection box 30 along the bottom surface 301, i.e., the plurality of surfaces 361, 362, 363, and the standing portion 35.

[0090] The first opening is 731. Figure 11As shown, the first opening 731 is positioned corresponding to the water outlet 81. That is, multiple first openings 731 are formed, in this case, three. Each first opening 731 is larger than its corresponding water outlet 81. Regarding the relationship between the total area of ​​the multiple first openings 731 and the total area of ​​the multiple water outlets 81, the total area of ​​the first openings 731 can be set to be larger than the total area of ​​the water outlets 81. This allows a sufficient amount of microbubble water to reach the water outlet 81, thus effectively allowing the microbubble water to flow out from the water outlet 81. On the other hand, the total area of ​​the first openings 731 can be set to be smaller than the total area of ​​the water outlets 81. This slightly suppresses the amount of water flowing out from the water outlet 81, but strengthens the water force, thus improving the effect of removing detergent residue from the bottom surface 301 of the water injection box 30.

[0091] As described above, the flow path forming component 71 is positioned so as not to overlap with the treatment agent inlet 331 when viewed from above, thus preventing detergent from falling directly onto the flow path forming component 71. However, detergent sometimes splashes upwards from the bottom surface 301 of the water inlet box 30 and adheres to the flow path forming component 71. Therefore, a second opening 741 is provided in the second wall portion 74. The second opening 741 is as follows... Figure 11 As shown, for example, it is formed as a slit extending through the second wall portion 74. The second opening 741 is formed in multiple locations, for example, in this case in two locations.

[0092] Therefore, as Figure 13 As shown, a portion of the water flowing in the microbubble water flow path 72 flows out from the second opening 741, flows upward along the space between the side wall 712 of the flow path forming member 71 and the inner wall 302 of the water injection box 30, and then flows downstream past the top of the flow path forming member 71. Therefore, even if detergent adheres to the flow path forming member 71, it can be removed by the water flowing in the microbubble water flow path 72, thus keeping the flow path forming member 71 clean. Furthermore, the openings 731 and 741 are not limited to slits, but can also be formed by holes penetrating the walls 73 and 74.

[0093] In this configuration, water flowing from the pressurized dissolving device 40 and the microbubble generator 50 into the water injection box 30 via the connecting part 32, flows out of the outlet 81 through the microbubble water flow path 72, and then flows downwards along the bottom surface 301 of the water injection box 30, i.e., the multiple surfaces 361, 362, 363, and the standing part 35. In this way, by having the water flowing from the microbubble generator 50 pass through the microbubble water flow path 72, which has a relatively small cross-sectional area and a certain distance, the water potential can be weakened and the disappearance of the generated microbubbles can be suppressed. Furthermore, by having the water pass through the microbubble water flow path 72, the water flow can be rectified.

[0094] According to the embodiment described above, the washing machine 10 includes a water tank 12, water supply valves 22a, 22b, and 22c, a water inlet box 30, a pressurizing tank 41, a microbubble generator 50, and a microbubble water flow path 72. The water supply valves 22a, 22b, and 22c are connected to an external water supply source. The water inlet box 30 receives water supplied from an external water supply source via the water supply valves 22a, 22b, and 22c and fills the water tank 12 with water. The pressurizing tank 41 is located downstream of the water supply valve 22c and temporarily stores the water supplied via the water supply valve 22c along with air. The microbubble generator 50 is connected to the water inlet box 30, causing microbubbles to precipitate in the water flowing from the pressurizing tank 41. The microbubble water flow path 72 guides the water flowing into the water inlet box 30 after passing through the microbubble generator 50 to a predetermined position within the water inlet box 30.

[0095] Therefore, by utilizing microbubble water containing microbubbles generated by the microbubble generator 50, the cleaning effect can be improved. Furthermore, the water flowing from the microbubble generator 50 is introduced into the water inlet box under relatively strong water pressure. Therefore, without certain measures, the microbubbles may disappear due to collisions with the inner wall of the water inlet box 30. Therefore, by passing the water with strong water pressure from the microbubble generator 50 through the microbubble water flow path 72, the water pressure can be reduced and the water flow rectified. This suppresses the possibility of water passing through the microbubble generator 50 colliding with the walls under strong water pressure, thus reducing the disappearance of microbubbles. In this way, according to this embodiment, a cleaning effect of microbubble water containing microbubbles generated by the pressurized tank 41 and the microbubble generator 50 can be effectively obtained. As a result, the cleaning performance of the washing machine 10 can be improved.

[0096] Furthermore, the microbubble water flow path 72 is formed in the space S between the bottom surface 301 of the water injection box 30 and the flow path forming member 71 that covers a portion of the bottom surface 301 of the water injection box 30. Therefore, the water injection box 30 can be effectively utilized as a component constituting the microbubble water flow path 72. Consequently, the number of components can be reduced, and the reduction in the assembly workability of the washing machine 10 can be minimized as much as possible.

[0097] Furthermore, the washing machine 10 also includes a detergent receiving section 33 and a detergent dispensing port 331. The detergent receiving section 33 is located at a position separating it from the bottom surface 301 of the water inlet 30, and receives detergent from the user. The detergent dispensing port 331 is formed through the detergent receiving section 33, guiding the detergent received by the detergent receiving section 33 towards the bottom surface 301 of the water inlet 30. The outlet 81 of the microbubble water flow path 72 is located at a position that allows the detergent flowing out of the detergent dispensing port 331 to flow in the direction from the water inlet 30 toward the water tank 12.

[0098] Therefore, by positioning the outlet 81, from which the water flowing through the microbubble water path 72 exits, at the location where the detergent flowing from the treatment agent dispensing port 331 is rinsed, the water flowing through the microbubble water path 72 can be used to rinse the detergent dispensed into the water tank 30 from the treatment agent dispensing port 331. This prevents detergent residue from remaining inside the water tank 30. As a result, the water tank 30 can be kept clean, improving maintainability.

[0099] In addition, the washing machine 10 also includes a detergent flow path 25 as a treatment agent flow path. The detergent flow path 25 connects the water supply valve 22a to the treatment agent receiving section 33, guiding water that has passed through the water supply valve 22a to the treatment agent receiving section 33. Furthermore, the outlet 251 of the treatment agent flow path 25 and the outlet 81 of the microbubble water flow path 72 are located at different positions. As a result, the water that has passed through the microbubble water flow path 72, which flows in a different direction than the water that has passed through the treatment agent flow path 25, can be further rinsed after the detergent that has been rinsed by the water that has passed through the treatment agent flow path 25. This makes it more effective to prevent detergent residue from remaining inside the water inlet box 30.

[0100] Furthermore, the flow path forming member 71 is positioned below the treatment agent receiving section 33 and does not overlap with the treatment agent dispensing port 331 when viewed from above. This prevents detergent flowing from the treatment agent dispensing port 331 from falling directly onto the flow path forming member 71, which is located above the bottom surface 301 of the water filling box 30. This keeps the inside of the water filling box 30 clean and improves maintainability.

[0101] Furthermore, the outlet 81 of the microbubble water flow path 72 is formed by a hole or notch formed on the flow path forming member 71. Thus, by adjusting the position and shape of the outlet 81 in accordance with the shape of the bottom surface 301 of the water injection box 30, the microbubble water flowing in the microbubble water flow path 72 can be directed to the desired position.

[0102] Furthermore, the washing machine 10 also includes multiple wall portions 73 and 74. These multiple wall portions 73 and 74 are formed along the flow path forming member 71 and rise from the bottom surface 301 of the water inlet box 30, and are arranged along the length direction of the flow path forming member 71. Here, in order to smoothly supply water flowing in the microbubble water flow path 72 to the water tank 12, it is preferable that the water flowing in the microbubble water flow path 72 mainly flows out from the outlet 81 side. Therefore, a wall portion 74 is provided at a position opposite to the inner wall 302 of the water inlet box 30. This suppresses a large amount of water from flowing out from the inner wall 302 side and promotes water to flow out from the outlet 81 side.

[0103] Furthermore, in order to wash away the cleaning agent adhering to the water filling box 30, it is preferable to allow water to flow to the inner wall 302 side of the water filling box 30. Therefore, an opening 741 is formed on the wall 74, one of the plurality of wall portions 73, 74, located opposite the inner wall 302 of the water filling box 30. As a result, less water can flow through the inner wall 302 side where the opening 741 is formed, compared to the outlet 81 side. Additionally, by allowing water passing through the opening 741 to flow from between the flow path forming member 71 and the inner wall 302 of the water filling box 30 to the surface of the flow path forming member 71, detergent adhering to the surface of the flow path forming member 71 or entering between the inner wall 302 and the flow path forming member 71 can be removed. Therefore, the flow path forming member 71 and the inside of the water filling box 30 can be kept clean, improving maintainability. In addition, the multiple wall portions 73 and 74 make it easier to align the flow path forming component 71 when installing it into the water injection box 30, thus improving the assembly workability of the washing machine 10.

[0104] Multiple outlets 81 of the microbubble water flow path 72 are arranged along the length of the flow path forming member 71. This allows the microbubble water flowing from the outlets 81 to flow over a wide area. Therefore, detergent adhering to the bottom surface of the water injection box 30 can be removed efficiently.

[0105] Multiple outlets 81 of the microbubble water flow path 72 are arranged at equal intervals. Therefore, by arranging the multiple outlets 81 at equal intervals, the microbubble water can be guided regularly downstream, thus rectifying the water flow. This allows for the efficient supply of microbubble water.

[0106] The embodiments of the present invention have been described above, but these embodiments are illustrative and not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These new embodiments can be implemented in various other ways, and various omissions, substitutions, and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. These embodiments and their variations are included in the scope or spirit of the invention, and are included in the scope of the invention and its equivalents as set forth in the patent claims.

Claims

1. A washing machine, comprising: Water bucket; The water supply valve connects to an external water source. The water inlet box receives water supplied from the external water source via the water supply valve and fills the water tank with water; A pressurization tank, located downstream of the water supply valve, temporarily stores water supplied through the water supply valve along with air. A microbubble generator is connected to the water injection box to cause microbubbles to be released from the water flowing out of the pressurization tank. The microbubble water flow path guides the water that flows into the water injection box after passing through the microbubble generator to a predetermined position within the water injection box. The treatment agent receiving section is located at a position separated from the bottom surface of the water injection box and is used to receive the cleaning treatment agent from the user. as well as The treatment agent inlet is formed by passing through the treatment agent receiving part, and guides the cleaning treatment agent received by the treatment agent receiving part to the bottom surface of the water injection box. The microbubble water flow path is formed in the space between the bottom surface of the water injection box and the flow path forming component that covers a portion of the bottom surface of the water injection box. The outlet of the microbubble water flow path is positioned so that the cleaning agent flowing out of the treatment agent inlet flows in the direction from the water injection box toward the water tank.

2. The washing machine as described in claim 1, further comprising: The treatment agent flow path connects the water supply valve to the treatment agent receiving unit, guiding the water passing through the water supply valve to the treatment agent receiving unit. The outlet of the flow path for the treatment agent and the outlet of the flow path for the microbubble water are located at different positions.

3. The washing machine as described in claim 1 or claim 2, The flow path forming component is located below the treatment agent receiving portion and does not overlap with the treatment agent dispensing port when viewed from above.

4. The washing machine as described in claim 3, The outlet of the microbubble water flow path is formed by a hole or notch formed on the flow path forming component.

5. The washing machine as described in claim 4, The outlets of the microbubble water flow path are arranged in multiple ways along the length of the flow path forming component.

6. The washing machine as described in claim 5, The multiple outlets of the microbubble water flow path are each set at equal intervals.

7. A washing machine, comprising: Water bucket; The water supply valve connects to an external water source. The water inlet box receives water supplied from the external water source via the water supply valve and fills the water tank with water; A pressurization tank, located downstream of the water supply valve, temporarily stores water supplied through the water supply valve along with air. A microbubble generator is connected to the water injection box to cause microbubbles to be released from the water flowing out of the pressurization tank. The microbubble water flow path guides the water that flows into the water injection box after passing through the microbubble generator to a predetermined position within the water injection box. as well as Multiple wall portions are formed along a flow path forming component that covers a portion of the bottom surface of the water injection box and rises upright from the bottom surface of the water injection box, and are arranged along the length direction of the flow path forming component. The microbubble water is formed in the space between the bottom surface of the water injection box and the flow path forming component. An opening is formed in one of the plurality of wall portions located at a position opposite to the inner wall of the water injection box.

8. The washing machine as described in claim 7, The outlets of the microbubble water flow path are arranged in multiple ways along the length of the flow path forming component.

9. The washing machine as described in claim 8, The multiple outlets of the microbubble water flow path are each set at equal intervals.

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