Washing machine

Abstract

The problem is to improve the cleaning effect of fine bubble water containing fine bubbles and reduce the number of components to ensure the assembly workability of a washing machine. The solution is that the washing machine has a water tub, a water supply valve, a water injection box, a pressurizing tank provided on the downstream side of the water supply valve and temporarily storing water supplied through the water supply valve together with air, a fine bubble generator for separating fine bubbles from water flowing out of the pressurizing tank, and a suction valve. The suction valve is connected to the pressurizing tank and the water injection box in an openable and closable manner, and is provided in a space between the pressurizing tank and the water injection box, closes between the pressurizing tank and the water injection box as the pressure in the pressurizing tank rises, and opens between the pressurizing tank and the water injection box as the pressure in the pressurizing tank decreases.

Description

Technical Field

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

[0002] Previously, the use of pressurized dissolution devices to dissolve air components in liquids under pressure to generate microbubble water containing micron-sized or ultrafine bubbles, thereby improving cleaning performance, has garnered attention. However, conventional pressurized dissolution devices contain numerous components, such as those for drawing in gas to dissolve in the liquid or pipes for supplying the drawn-in gas to a tank within the device. This increased number of components complicates the washing machine assembly process.

[0003] Existing technical documents:

[0004] Patent documents:

[0005] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2005-95605 Summary of the Invention

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

[0007] Therefore, a washing machine is provided that can improve the cleaning effect of water containing microbubbles and reduce the number of parts to ensure the ease of assembly.

[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 disposed downstream of the water supply valve, which temporarily stores the water supplied via the water supply valve along with air; a microbubble generator that causes microbubbles to precipitate in the water flowing out of the pressure tank; and an air intake valve that connects the pressure tank and the water inlet box in an openable and closable manner, and is disposed in the space between the pressure tank and the water inlet box, closing the connection between the pressure tank and the water inlet box as the pressure inside the pressure tank increases, and opening the connection between the pressure tank and the water inlet box as the pressure inside the pressure tank decreases.

[0010] Invention effects:

[0011] The washing machine according to the embodiment can improve the cleaning effect of microbubble water containing microbubbles, and reduce the number of parts to ensure the ease of assembly of the washing machine. Attached Figure Description

[0012] Figure 1This is a cross-sectional view that schematically represents an example of the washing machine according to the first embodiment.

[0013] Figure 2 This is an external view showing an example of the configuration of the pressure dissolution apparatus according to the first embodiment.

[0014] Figure 3 It is along Figure 2 The X3-X3 line represents a cross-sectional view of an example of the pressurized dissolving apparatus and water injection box according to the first embodiment.

[0015] 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 water injection box according to the first embodiment.

[0016] 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 pressurized melting apparatus according to the first embodiment.

[0017] Figure 6 It is along Figure 5 The X6-X6 line represents a cross-sectional view of an example of the pressurized tank according to the first embodiment.

[0018] Figure 7 It is along Figure 5 The X7-X7 line represents a cross-sectional view of an example of the pressurized tank according to the first embodiment.

[0019] Figure 8 It is Figure 5 The arrow X8 portion is enlarged to show a cross-sectional view of an example of the general configuration of the intake valve according to the first embodiment.

[0020] Figure 9 This is a cross-sectional view of an example of the state in which the intake valve body of the first embodiment has moved toward the pressurized tank side.

[0021] Figure 10 It is along Figure 9 The X10-X10 line is a diagram showing an example of the positional relationship between the through hole and the limiting part according to the first embodiment.

[0022] Figure 11 This is a cross-sectional view showing an example of the microbubble generator according to the first embodiment.

[0023] Figure 12 It is along Figure 11 The X12-X12 line represents a cross-sectional view of an example of the microbubble generator according to the first embodiment.

[0024] Figure 13 It is Figure 5 The arrow X8 portion is enlarged to represent an example of the approximate configuration of the intake valve according to the second embodiment. Figure 8 The image.

[0025] Figure 14 It is Figure 5 The arrow X8 portion is enlarged to represent an example of the approximate configuration of the intake valve according to the third embodiment. Figure 8 The image.

[0026] Figure 15 It is Figure 5 The arrow X8 portion is enlarged to represent an example of the approximate configuration of the intake valve according to the fourth embodiment. Figure 8 The image.

[0027] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0028] 10...washing machine, 12...water tank, 22...water supply valve, 30...water inlet box, 39...water inlet path, 41...pressurization tank, 46...air inlet, 461...through hole, 462...restriction part, 50...intake valve, 51...valve seat assembly, 512...connecting part, 52...valve body, 53...connector assembly, 60...microbubble generator Detailed Implementation

[0029] Hereinafter, several embodiments will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. In addition, in each embodiment, terms such as "first" and "second" attached to constituent elements are only used to distinguish similar constituent elements and do not imply superiority or inferiority between constituent elements or temporal factors.

[0030] (First Embodiment)

[0031] 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.

[0032] exist Figure 1In 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.

[0033] 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.

[0034] 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.

[0035] 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.

[0036] In addition, the washing machine 10 includes a connection port 21, a water supply valve 22, a first water supply path 23, a second water supply path 24, a water inlet box 30, a pressurized dissolving device 40, an air intake valve 50, and a microbubble generator 60. The connection port 21 is connected to an external water supply source such as a tap via a water supply hose 100. The water supply valve 22 is a liquid-use on / off valve that can be opened and closed electromagnetically. The water supply valve 22 is connected to the connection port 21 and has the function of individually opening and closing the first water supply path 23 and the second water supply path 24.

[0037] Water supply route 23 and water supply route 24 are as follows Figure 1The diagram shows the paths that branch off from the water supply valve 22, converge in the water injection box 30 along their respective paths, and reach the water tank 12 via the water injection box 30. Specifically, 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. In this case, the first water supply path 23 is the path where water supplied from an external water source to the connection port 21 is directly supplied to the water injection box 30 via the water supply valve 22.

[0038] The second water supply path 24 is a path from an external water source to the connection port 21, through the water supply valve 22, the pressurized dissolving device 40, and the microbubble generator 60, to the water injection box 30. In addition, 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.

[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 the water supply valve 22 and filling water into the water tank 12. The water filling box 30, for example... Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the device includes a cleaning agent container 31, a water inlet 32, a connecting portion 33, and a connecting portion 34. The cleaning agent container 31 is, for example, formed as a container with an opening on the top side, configured to store cleaning agent inside. Furthermore, the cleaning agent container 31 is configured to be able to move in and out of the water inlet 30. The cleaning agent container 31 is located downstream of the water supply valve 22 on the first water supply path 23. In this embodiment, the cleaning agent includes, for example, detergents such as powdered detergents or liquid detergents, and finishing agents such as fabric softeners or fragrances.

[0040] The cleaning agent container 31 has a cleaning agent outlet 311. The cleaning agent outlet 311 is as follows: Figure 4 As shown, for example, one or more holes are provided at the bottom of the cleaning agent box 31, which connects the inside of the cleaning agent box 31 to the outside within the water injection box 30. In this case, the treatment agent outlet 311 opens toward the bottom of the water injection box 30.

[0041] Water inlet 32 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. The connecting part 33 is as follows... Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, the wall surface that is disposed in the water injection box 30 and faces the pressurized dissolving device 40 communicates the interior and exterior of the water injection box 30. The connecting part 33 is formed in a cylindrical shape, for example, so that the suction valve 50 can be detached and installed.

[0042] The connecting part 33 has a hole 331. Hole 331 is as follows: Figure 5As shown, it is formed through the side of the water injection box 30 in the thickness direction. The connecting part 34 is as follows... Figure 2 As 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 34.

[0043] Additionally, the water injection box 30, as Figure 4 As shown, it includes an erection section 35, a stepped section 36, a cover component 37, a flow path 381 for the treatment agent, a flow path 382 for microbubble water, and a water injection path 39. The erection section 35 is as follows... Figure 4 As shown, the water inlet box 30 is formed by raising the bottom of the inlet box 30. A stepped portion 36 is continuously formed from the upright portion 35 and extends upwards from the upright portion 35. The stepped portion 36 has a first inclined portion 361, a second inclined portion 362, and a third inclined portion 363. Each inclined portion 361, 362, and 363 gradually slopes upwards in a direction away from the upright portion 35. The first inclined portion 361 is continuously formed at the end of the upright portion 35. The second inclined portion 362, as shown... Figure 4 As shown, its inclination is steeper than that of the first inclined portion 361 and the third inclined portion 363.

[0044] Cover component 37, such as Figure 3 As shown, the structure, when viewed from above, is approximately L-shaped, covering part of the upright portion 35 and the stepped portion 36 of the water injection box 30. The cross-section of the cover member 37 is formed in a shape such as a U-shape or a V-shape, allowing gas or liquid to pass between the upright portion 35 and the stepped portion 36. The cover member 37 horizontally separates the water flow flowing along the top of the upright portion 35 and the stepped portion 36.

[0045] Additionally, the cover component 37 has an outlet 371. The outlet 371 is as follows: Figure 4 As shown, the cover member 37 is positioned at a location overlapping the third inclined portion 363, connecting the interior and exterior of the cover member 37. The outlet 371 is positioned above the bottom of the water injection box 30 and above the outlet of the microbubble generator 60. Additionally, the outlet 371 is positioned below the treatment agent box 31.

[0046] The treatment agent flow path 381 is a flow path provided on the first water supply path 23 and connecting the water supply valve 22 to the cleaning treatment agent box 31. That is, the treatment agent flow path 381 is a flow path used to guide water flowing into the water injection box 30 through the water supply valve 22 to a predetermined position in the cleaning treatment agent box 31. In this case, the treatment agent flow path 381 is connected to the interior of the cleaning treatment agent box 31 when the cleaning treatment agent box 31 is housed in the water injection box 30. In other words, water passing through the water supply valve 22 is injected into the cleaning treatment agent box 31 through the treatment agent flow path 381. Furthermore, the treatment agent flow path 381... Figure 4 The hollow arrow A indicates the direction in which the liquid is supplied.

[0047] At this time, if cleaning agent is stored in the cleaning agent box 31, the cleaning agent mixes with the water injected into the cleaning agent box 31 and flows out of the cleaning agent box 31 from the treatment agent outlet 311. The treatment agent flow path 381 can be integrally formed with the water injection box 30, or it can be composed of different components from the water injection box 30.

[0048] The microbubble water flow path 382 is provided 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 60 to a predetermined position in the water injection box 30. In this case, the microbubble water flow path 382 is formed in the space between the cover member 37, the standing part 35, and the stepped part 36. Furthermore, the microbubble water flow path 382 directs water into… Figure 3 and Figure 4 The liquid is supplied in the direction indicated by the black arrow B. That is, the microbubble water flow path 382 is a flow path used to temporarily guide the microbubble water containing microbubbles, which has been introduced into the water injection box 30 after passing through the pressurized dissolving device 40 and the microbubble generator 60, upward and then allow it to flow downward.

[0049] In this way, the water flowing into the water injection box 30 from the pressurized dissolving device 40 and the microbubble generator 60 through the connecting part 34 passes through the microbubble water flow path 382 and flows out from the outlet 371, and then flows downward along the upper part of the step part 36 and the standing part 35 toward the lower part of the water injection box 30.

[0050] Here, water flowing from the microbubble generator 60 is introduced into the water injection box 30 with a relatively strong water potential. Thus, by passing the water from the microbubble generator 60 through the microbubble water flow path 382, ​​which has a relatively small cross-sectional area and a certain distance, the water potential is reduced, and bubbles are efficiently precipitated. Furthermore, by passing the water through the microbubble water flow path 382, ​​the water flow is rectified.

[0051] Water injection path 39 Figure 3 and Figure 4The diagram shows a flow path located at the bottom of the water injection box 30, through which water supplied to the water injection box 30 flows towards the water container 12. In this embodiment, as... Figure 4 As shown, water that has passed through the treatment agent flow path 381 and been mixed with the cleaning treatment agent in the cleaning treatment agent box 31, and then flows out from the treatment agent outlet 311, merges with the microbubble water that has passed through the microbubble water flow path 382 on the water injection path 39. Then, the water flowing in the water injection path 39 is injected into the water tank 12 from the water inlet 32.

[0052] 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 5 As shown, this forms the flow path for water to flow in the direction of the black arrow C.

[0053] The pressurized dissolving apparatus 40 includes a pressurized tank 41, an inlet 42, an outlet 43, a water guide 44, a partition wall 45, and an air inlet 46. The pressurized tank 41 can temporarily store water supplied through the water supply valve 22 along with air. The pressurized tank 41 is configured as a container with airtightness, watertightness, and pressure resistance. Furthermore, the pressurized 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 pressurized tank 41, deformation of the pressurized tank 41 is suppressed, and airtightness and watertightness are maintained.

[0054] 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, and a space S is formed inside the pressurized tank 41. Furthermore, the pressurized tank 41 is not limited to the configuration of combining two tank components, but may also be configured to combine three or more tank components.

[0055] In this embodiment, the pressurized tank 41 includes 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.

[0056] Sealing component 413, such as Figure 5 and Figure 11 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.

[0057] Entrance 42 Figure 2 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 2 As shown, for example, it is made of synthetic resin and is cylindrical, 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.

[0058] 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 2 and Figure 6 As shown, it is located on the upper side of the first tank component 411 and is connected to the water supply valve 22 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.

[0059] Export Department 43 Figure 5As 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 34. That is, the first tank component 411 is directly connected to the connecting portion 34 via the outlet 43. In this case, the other end of the outlet 43 is configured to be insertable into the connecting portion 34. 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 34, the outlet 43 and the connecting portion 34 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.

[0060] Additionally, the first tank component 411 has a water guiding section 44. The water guiding section 44 is as follows... Figure 5 and Figure 6 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 6 As shown, it is configured to have a gap G relative to the inner wall of the second tank component 412.

[0061] 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.

[0062] 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 6 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.

[0063] 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.

[0064] partition wall 45 Figure 5 As shown, a partition wall 45 is installed vertically from the bottom inside the pressurization tank 41, horizontally dividing a portion of the space S inside the pressurization tank 41. A 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 section 44 is as follows... Figure 6 As shown, the water passage 44 extends to a position where, when viewed from above, it extends beyond the partition wall 45 relative to the inlet 42, and water passing through the water guide 44 is discharged at this position. That is, the water passage 444 is arranged in the extending direction of the water guide 44 at a position where, relative to the inlet 42, it extends beyond the partition wall 45.

[0065] Therefore, as Figure 5 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.

[0066] In addition, such as Figure 7 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.

[0067] Air inlet section 46 Figure 5As shown, the interior of the pressurization tank 41 is connected to the outside to allow outside air to enter the pressurization tank 41. An air inlet 46 is located on the upper side of the first tank component 411, corresponding to the connecting part 33. That is, the air inlet 46 is positioned above the outlet part 43 and below the water inlet part 444. Furthermore, the air inlet 46 is, for example, formed in a cylindrical shape, and is configured such that the intake valve 50 can be detached and installed.

[0068] Air inlet section 46 Figure 8 As shown, it has a through hole 461 and a limiting portion 462. The through hole 461 is formed, for example, through the wall surface 463 opposite to the water injection box 30 in the wall surface constituting the air inlet 46 in the thickness direction. The limiting portion 462 is formed in a trapezoidal shape, for example, and protrudes from the pressurizing tank 41 toward the water injection box 30. A plurality of limiting portions 462 are provided around the through hole 461 at equally spaced intervals, for example, four in this case. The limiting portion 462 can be integrally formed with the pressurizing tank 41.

[0069] Intake valve 50 Figure 2 and Figure 5 As shown in the diagram, the pressure tank 41 and the water injection box 30 are connected in an openable and closable manner, and are disposed in the space between the pressure tank 41 and the water injection box 30. The suction valve 50 closes the connection between the pressure tank 41 and the water injection box 30 as the pressure inside the pressure tank 41 increases, and opens the connection between the pressure tank 41 and the water injection box 30 as the pressure inside the pressure tank 41 decreases. That is, the suction valve 50 has the function of switching between an open state and a closed state. The open state allows gas and liquid to flow between the interior of the pressure tank 41 and the interior of the water injection box 30, while the closed state seals the connection between the interior of the pressure tank 41 and the interior of the water injection box 30, preventing gas and liquid from flowing in or out.

[0070] For example, the intake valve 50 can be configured to close if the pressure inside the pressure tank 41 exceeds a preset pressure, and open if the pressure inside the pressure tank 41 falls below the preset pressure. In other words, the intake valve 50 can be configured to operate without electrical control. Here, the preset pressure can be set to a pressure higher than atmospheric pressure. Furthermore, the preset pressure required for opening and closing the intake valve 50 can be adjusted by changing the size and weight of the valve body 52 and the tilt angle of the cone portion 511.

[0071] In this embodiment, the intake valve 50 is as follows: Figure 2As shown, the water injection box 30 is connected above the water injection path 39. Furthermore, the air intake valve 50 is connected to the water injection box 30 above the rising portion 35. In other words, the air intake valve 50 is configured above the water path flowing within the water injection box 30. Therefore, by reducing the risk of liquid flowing from the water injection box 30 into the air intake valve 50, air from inside the water injection box 30 can be stably introduced into the pressurization tank 41.

[0072] Intake valve 50 Figure 8 As shown, the valve includes a valve seat component 51, a valve body 52, and a connector component 53. The valve seat component 51 is formed in a cylindrical shape, for example, using a synthetic resin such as polyacetal or polyamide. The valve body 52 is formed in a spherical shape, for example, using a synthetic resin such as fluoropolymer, polyethylene, or polypropylene, or a metal such as aluminum. At least the portion of the valve seat component 51 that contacts the valve body 52 can be made of a material different from the valve body 52. ​​The valve body 52 is formed, for example, using a resin material with a specific gravity less than 1, such as polyethylene or polypropylene, or it can be constructed as a whole with a specific gravity less than 1 by making the interior of the valve body 52 hollow, thereby enabling it to float on water.

[0073] The valve seat component 51 has a tapered portion 511 and a connecting portion 512. The tapered portion 511 is formed to house the valve body 52 internally, for example, it is configured as a conical cylinder having a central axis extending in the horizontal direction. The inner diameter of the tapered portion 511 decreases as it moves from the pressure tank 41 side toward the water injection box 30 side, that is, the inner diameter increases as it moves from the water injection box 30 side toward the pressure tank 41 side.

[0074] If the pressure inside the pressure tank 41 exceeds the specified pressure, the valve body 52... Figure 8 As shown, it moves towards the water injection box 30 along the inclination of the conical portion 511 under pressure P. On the other hand, when the pressure inside the pressure tank 41 is below the specified pressure, that is, close to atmospheric pressure or atmospheric pressure, the valve body 52 moves as follows: Figure 9 As shown, the valve body 52 moves toward the pressure tank 41 side along the inclination of the cone 511 due to its own weight.

[0075] Here, for example, if the valve body 52 is configured to contact the periphery of the through hole 461, the valve body 52 repeatedly collides with the periphery of the through hole 461 as the intake valve 50 opens and closes. If the periphery of the through hole 461 wears down due to this collision, the valve body 52 may become embedded in the through hole 461, obstructing airflow. Therefore, in this embodiment, as described above, a plurality of limiting portions 462 are provided around the through hole 461. Furthermore, the valve body 52 contacts the limiting portion 462 when it moves toward the pressurized tank 41. That is, the limiting portion 462 restricts the valve body 52 from moving toward the pressurized tank 41 by a predetermined amount. In this way, by configuring the valve body 52 to contact the limiting portion 462 but not the periphery of the through hole 461, the adverse situation caused by repeated contact between the valve body 52 and the periphery of the through hole 461 can be avoided.

[0076] In addition, such as Figure 10 As shown, there is a gap between adjacent limiting portions 462. This gap is maintained even when the valve body 52 is in contact with the limiting portion 462. Therefore, air can flow through this gap at all times, and the through hole 461 remains open even when the limiting portion 462 is in contact with the valve body 52.

[0077] Connecting part 512, for example Figure 8 As shown, the valve body 52 is positioned corresponding to the hole 331 and is formed, for example, in a cylindrical shape, configured to be inserted into the hole 331. The connecting portion 512 is formed on the side closer to the water injection box 30 than the conical portion 511, and has an inner diameter smaller than the outer diameter of the valve body 52. ​​The valve body 52 moves along the conical portion 511 along the interior of the valve seat member 51 in this case, as the pressure inside the pressurized tank 41 changes, thereby opening and closing the connecting portion 512. That is, the connecting portion 512 closes when the valve body 52 moves towards the water injection box 30 and is in close contact with the conical portion 511, and opens when the valve body 52 is not in close contact with the conical portion 511.

[0078] Connector component 53, such as Figure 8 As shown, it is formed in a cylindrical shape, configured to house the valve seat component 51 internally. In this embodiment, the connector component 53 is integral with the valve seat component 51 and separate from the water injection box 30. A sealing member 54 is provided between the inner circumferential surface of the connector component 53 and the outer circumferential surface of the air inlet portion 46. A sealing member 55 is provided between the outer circumferential surface of the connector component 53 and the inner circumferential surface of the connecting portion 33. The sealing members 54 and 55 are, for example, O-rings made of synthetic resin. The connector component 53 is watertightly connected to the air inlet portion 46 and the connecting portion 33 via the sealing members 54 and 55.

[0079] In this configuration, if the valve body 52 closes the connecting portion 512, the pressurized tank 41 and the water injection box 30 are in a closed state, meaning that air in the water injection box 30 is not introduced into the pressurized tank 41. On the other hand, if the valve body 52 moves away from the connecting portion 512, the pressurized tank 41 and the water injection box 30 are in an open state, meaning that air can be introduced from the water injection box 30 into the pressurized tank 41.

[0080] 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 22 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 50.

[0081] 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 and the pressure of the water flowing in from the external water supply source are balanced, 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 pressure inside the pressure tank 41 reaches its maximum pressure, which is close to the tap water pressure in this case. In this way, the pressure inside the pressure tank 41 rises to a level higher than atmospheric pressure, making it easier for air inside the pressure tank 41 to dissolve into the water stored inside the pressure tank 41. In other words, by passing water supplied from an external water supply source through the pressure dissolving device 40, water with more air components dissolved in it compared to ordinary water that does not pass through the pressure dissolving device 40 can be supplied downstream of the pressure dissolving device 40.

[0082] Furthermore, when water is supplied to the pressure tank 41 and the water supply valve 22 is closed while the water level in the pressure tank 41 is below the connection point of the air intake valve 50, the water supply to the pressure tank 41 stops, and only water flows out of the pressure tank 41. Subsequently, as the water level in the pressure tank 41 decreases, the pressure inside the pressure tank 41 also decreases below the specified pressure. At this time, the air intake valve 50 opens, allowing outside air to enter the pressure tank 41.

[0083] On the other hand, when the water supply valve 22 is closed with the water level in the pressure tank 41 above the connection point of the suction valve 50, the valve body 52 is pulled towards the pressure tank 41 by the water flowing out of the outlet 43. At this time, as the valve body 52 moves towards the pressure tank 41, the communication portion 512 opens, but a water flow towards the outlet 43, which is located below the suction valve 50, is generated within the pressure tank 41. Therefore, the water in the pressure tank 41 is not easily discharged actively from the suction valve 50. Furthermore, even if water is slightly discharged from the suction valve 50, since the suction valve 50 is connected to the water filling box 30 via the connection portion 33, the water is also discharged into the water filling box 30. This, for example, prevents water from flowing to electrical components around the water filling box 30.

[0084] Additionally, if the water level in the pressure tank 41 is lower than the connection point with the air intake valve 50, outside air is introduced into the pressure tank 41. In this way, the pressure dissolving device 40 can repeatedly spray water containing dissolved air components by repeatedly opening and closing the water supply valve 22.

[0085] The microbubble generator 60 has the function of generating microbubbles in the water flowing from the pressurized tank 41. The microbubble generator 60, as... Figure 5 and Figure 11 As shown, the microbubble generator 60 is installed in a state supported between the outlet 43 and the connecting portion 34. In this case, the microbubble generator 60 is installed in a state where it is sandwiched between the outlet 43 and the connecting portion 34. Alternatively, the microbubble generator 60 can be configured to be fixed by pressing it into the outlet 43 and the connecting portion 34. Furthermore, a sealing member 71 is provided on the outer peripheral surface of the microbubble generator 60. The sealing member 71 is, for example, made of an O-ring made of synthetic resin. Additionally, by pressing the sealing member 71 against the outer peripheral surface of the microbubble generator 60 and the inner peripheral surface of the connecting portion 34, watertightness between the microbubble generator 60 and the connecting portion 34 is ensured.

[0086] The microbubble generator 60 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 60 is as follows... Figure 11 As shown, it has a throttling section 61, a straight section 62, and a collision section 63. The throttling section 61 and the straight section 62 form a flow path that causes water to flow in the direction of the black arrow D along the length of the microbubble generator 60.

[0087] A throttling section 61 is located on the inflow side, i.e., the upstream side, of the microbubble generator 60. The throttling section 61 is formed as a truncated cone-shaped tube, where the cross-sectional area, i.e., the inner diameter, of the flow path gradually decreases from the upstream end to the middle of the microbubble generator 60 along its length. A straight section 62 is located on the downstream side of the throttling section 61. The straight section 62 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.

[0088] The collision section 63 is provided at the downstream end of the straight section 62. By locally reducing the cross-sectional area through which water can pass in the microbubble generator 60, the collision section 63 can generate a large number of nano-sized microbubbles in the liquid passing through the microbubble generator 60.

[0089] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the collision part 63 is as follows: Figure 12 As shown, for example, it consists of four rod-shaped portions with sharp front ends, protruding from the inner circumferential surface of the straight portion 62 toward the center of its cross-section. The four collision portions 63 are arranged at equal intervals around each other in the circumferential direction toward the cross-section of the straight portion 62. In this case, the downstream surface of each collision portion 63 is formed as a flat surface. Furthermore, the area of ​​the gap formed by each collision portion 63 becomes the minimum cross-sectional area through which water can pass in the microbubble generator 60.

[0090] If water flows upstream of the microbubble generator 60, the flow path cross-sectional area decreases in the throttling section 61, which is formed in the shape of a truncated cone. Based on Bernoulli's theorem in fluid mechanics, the flow velocity increases and cavitation occurs due to decompression. Furthermore, microbubbles are generated, further subdivided by the shear force exerted by the high-speed fluid colliding with the collision section 63. Thus, the microbubble generator 60 can cause a large amount of dissolved air in the water passing through it to be released as microbubbles, supplying a much larger quantity of microbubble-containing water compared to before passing through the microbubble generator 60.

[0091] 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.

[0092] 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.

[0093] 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.

[0094] In this embodiment, the microbubble generator 60 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 60, 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 60 also increases. As a result, some of the generated nanobubbles combine with each other and develop into microbubbles.

[0095] Furthermore, in this embodiment, a pressurized dissolving device 40 is provided upstream of the microbubble generator 60. Therefore, the amount of air contained in the water passing through the microbubble generator 60 can be increased. Consequently, a large number of nanobubbles and microbubbles can be generated in the water passing through the microbubble generator 60, resulting in the simultaneous attainment of the cleaning effect of nanobubbles and the effect of microbubbles in inhibiting the re-adhesion of dirt.

[0096] According to the embodiment described above, the washing machine 10 includes a water tank 12, a water supply valve 22, a water inlet box 30, a pressure tank 41, an air intake valve 50, and a microbubble generator 60. The water supply valve 22 is connected to an external water source. The water inlet box 30 has the function of receiving water supplied from an external water source via the water supply valve 22 and filling the water tank 12 with water. The pressure tank 41 is located downstream of the water supply valve 22 and temporarily stores the water supplied by the water supply valve 22 along with air. The air intake valve 50 connects the pressure tank 41 and the water inlet box 30 in an openable and closable manner, and is located in the space between the pressure tank 41 and the water inlet box 30. Furthermore, the air intake valve 50 closes the connection between the pressure tank 41 and the water inlet box 30 as the pressure inside the pressure tank 41 increases, and opens the connection between the pressure tank 41 and the water inlet box 30 as the pressure inside the pressure tank 41 decreases. The microbubble generator 60 causes microbubbles to be generated in the water flowing out of the pressurized tank 41.

[0097] Therefore, by utilizing microbubble water containing microbubbles generated by the microbubble generator 60, the cleaning effect can be improved. Furthermore, by directly connecting the suction valve 50 between the pressure tank 41 and the water injection box 30, the number of parts can be reduced. This improves the assembly operability of the washing machine 10 and reduces its manufacturing cost.

[0098] Furthermore, the suction valve 50 is connected to the water injection box 30 above the water injection path 39, which is the path through which water supplied to the water injection box 30 flows towards the water tank 12. Therefore, liquid in the water injection box 30 cannot flow into the suction valve 50, thus allowing air inside the water injection box 30 to be stably introduced into the pressurization tank 41. This enables the air components to dissolve smoothly in the water stored in the pressurization tank 41.

[0099] Furthermore, the intake valve 50 has a valve seat component 51 and a valve body 52. ​​The valve seat component 51 has a connecting portion 512. The connecting portion 512 connects the pressurized tank 41 and the water injection box 30, thereby allowing gas to pass through. The valve body 52 is spherical and moves inside the valve seat component 51 as the pressure inside the pressurized tank 41 changes, thereby opening and closing the connecting portion 512.

[0100] Therefore, by adopting a structure in which the connecting portion 512 is opened and closed by the movement of the valve body 52, which is formed into a ball, aging can be suppressed compared to, for example, a so-called rubber valve. Furthermore, since the valve seat component 51 and the valve body 52 are in contact via line contact, meaning that the contact point between the two is small, abnormalities are less likely to occur due to welding between components. As a result, the maintainability of the intake valve 50 can be improved.

[0101] Furthermore, at least the portion of the valve seat component 51 that contacts the valve body 52 is made of a different material than the valve body 52. ​​This allows for adjustment of the frictional force between the valve body 52 and the portion of the valve seat component 51 that contacts the valve body 52. ​​Consequently, the frictional force generated between the valve body 52 and the portion of the valve seat component 51 that contacts the valve body 52 can be adjusted to prevent excessive friction, thus improving the wear resistance of the intake valve 50.

[0102] Furthermore, the washing machine 10 also includes an air inlet section 46. The air inlet section 46 connects the interior of the pressure tank 41 to the outside and has the function of introducing outside air into the pressure tank 41. In addition, the air inlet section 46 has a through hole 461 and a limiting part 462. The through hole 461 is formed by penetrating through the wall surface 463 opposite to the water injection box 30 in the wall surface constituting the air inlet section 46 in the thickness direction. The limiting part 462 is provided around the through hole 461, protruding from the pressure tank 41 toward the water injection box 30, and restricts the valve body 52 from moving toward the pressure tank 41 by a predetermined amount.

[0103] Therefore, for example, the following undesirable situation can be avoided: as the intake valve 50 opens and closes, the valve body 52 repeatedly collides with the periphery of the through hole 461, causing continuous wear on the periphery of the through hole 461, and the valve body 52 becomes embedded in the through hole 461, thus obstructing airflow. This allows gas and liquid to smoothly enter and exit the interior of the pressurization tank 41 and the water injection box 30. This also allows for the stable introduction of air from inside the water injection box 30 into the pressurization tank 41.

[0104] In addition, the intake valve 50 also has a connector component 53. The connector component 53 internally houses the valve seat component 51. Furthermore, the connector component 53 is integral with the valve seat component 51 but separate from the water injection box 30. Therefore, by making the connector component 53 integral with the valve seat component 51, the number of components can be reduced. Furthermore, by making the connector component 53 separate from the water injection box 30, the freedom of material selection for each component can be increased. Thus, various materials can be flexibly selected according to the required performance of each component, and the function of each component can be effectively utilized.

[0105] (Second Implementation)

[0106] Next, refer to Figure 13 The second embodiment will be described below. In the second embodiment, the specific configuration of the intake valve 50 differs from that in the first embodiment. Specifically, in the first embodiment, the connector 53 is integrally formed with the valve seat 51 and separately formed with the water injection box 30; in contrast, in this second embodiment, the connector 53 is integrally formed with the valve seat 51. Furthermore, the connector 53 and the valve seat 51 are also integrally formed with the water injection box 30. In this case, the connector 53 is integrally formed with the water injection box 30, for example, through resin molding or bending. Furthermore, in the second embodiment, Figure 13 The components not described herein can be configured to be the same as those in the first embodiment described above.

[0107] Therefore, by integrally constructing the connector component 53 with the water injection box 30, the sealing component 55 and the like can be omitted, thus reducing the number of components. Furthermore, by integrally constructing the valve seat component 51 with the water injection box 30, for example, when manufacturing the washing machine 10, it is no longer necessary to go through the trouble of inserting the connecting part 512 into the hole 331, thus improving the assembly workability of the washing machine 10.

[0108] (Third Implementation)

[0109] Next, refer to Figure 14The third embodiment will be described. In the third embodiment, the connector component 53 is separate from the valve seat component 51 but integral with the water injection box 30. That is, in the second embodiment described above, the valve seat component 51 and the connector component 53 are integrally formed, and the valve seat component 51 and the connector component 53 are integrally formed with the water injection box 30. In contrast, in this third embodiment, the connector component 53 is integral with the water injection box 30, while the valve seat component 51 is separate from the water injection box 30 and the connector component 53. Furthermore, in the third embodiment, in Figure 14 The components not described herein can be configured to be the same as those in the first or second embodiment described above.

[0110] Therefore, by integrally constructing the connector component 53 with the water injection box 30, the sealing component 55 can be omitted, thus reducing the number of components. Furthermore, by making the connector component 53 and the valve seat component 51 separate, the flexibility in material selection for each component can be increased. This allows for the flexible selection of various materials according to the required performance of each component, effectively maximizing the functionality of each component.

[0111] (Fourth implementation)

[0112] Next, refer to Figure 15 The fourth embodiment will be described. In the fourth embodiment, the connector component 53 is separate from the valve seat component 51 and the water injection box 30. That is, in this fourth embodiment, the water injection box 30, the valve seat component 51, and the connector component 53 are configured as completely separate units. Furthermore, in the fourth embodiment, in... Figure 15 The components not described herein can be set to be the same as those in embodiments 1 to 3 described above.

[0113] Therefore, by setting the water injection box 30, valve seat component 51 and connector component 53 as separate parts, for example, the valve seat component 51, which requires high machining accuracy, has strict machining standards for quality management, while the connector component 53, which allows for dimensional errors compared to the valve seat, has more lenient machining standards for quality management than the valve seat component 51. This enables flexible quality management corresponding to each component, reduces the generation of defective products, and improves the manufacturing yield.

[0114] The foregoing has described several embodiments of the present invention, but these embodiments are merely illustrative and are 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 causes microbubbles to be generated in the water flowing from the pressurized tank; and An air intake valve connects the pressure tank and the water injection box in an openable and closable manner, and is disposed in the space between the pressure tank and the water injection box. It closes the connection between the pressure tank and the water injection box as the pressure inside the pressure tank increases, and opens the connection as the pressure inside the pressure tank decreases. The air intake valve is connected to the water injection box above the water injection path, which is the path through which water supplied to the water injection box flows to the water container. The intake valve has: The valve seat component has a connecting portion that connects the pressurized tank and the water injection box, allowing gas to pass through; and The valve body is spherical and moves inside the valve seat component as the pressure inside the pressurized tank changes, thereby opening and closing the communication part.

2. The washing machine as described in claim 1, At least the portion of the valve seat component that contacts the valve body is made of a different material than the valve body.

3. The washing machine as described in claim 2, further comprising: The air inlet connects the inside and outside of the pressurization tank, introducing outside air into the pressurization tank. The air inlet section has: A through hole is formed, extending in the thickness direction through the wall surface of the air inlet portion opposite to the water injection box; and A limiting part is provided around the through hole, protruding from the pressure tank toward the water injection box, to limit the movement of the valve body toward the pressure tank side by a predetermined amount.

4. The washing machine as described in claim 2, The intake valve also has a connector component capable of internally storing the valve seat component. The connector component is integral with the valve seat component but separate from the water injection box.

5. The washing machine as described in claim 2, The intake valve also has a connector component capable of internally storing the valve seat component. The connector component and the valve seat component are integrally formed. The connector component and the valve seat component are integrated with the water injection box.

6. The washing machine as described in claim 2, The intake valve also has a connector component capable of internally storing the valve seat component. The connector component is separate from the valve seat component but integrated with the water injection box.

7. The washing machine as described in claim 2, The intake valve also has a connector component capable of internally storing the valve seat component. The connector component is separate from the valve seat component and the water injection box.

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