Centrifugal separation device and washing machine provided with centrifugal separation device

Abstract

A swirling flow generation unit (24) of a centrifugal separation device (20A) is provided with: a cylindrical part (25) that communicates with a liquid inlet (22a) through which a liquid (washing water) flows into a rotating drum (22); a liquid inflow part (28) into which a liquid flows from the water passage (19a) to the cylindrical part (25); and a swirling flow path (36). The swirling flow path (36) includes a convex portion (37) and one or more enlarged portions (38), and swirls the liquid flowing in from the liquid inflow portion (28). The convex portion (37) and the enlarged portion (38) are provided such that the centers coincide with the center axis (25a) of the cylindrical portion (25). The enlarged section (38) is provided on the bottom surface (24c) of the swirling flow generating section (24) and has a larger diameter than the convex section (37), and the convex section (37) is formed in a cylindrical shape from the enlarged section (38) toward the liquid inlet (22a) side.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a centrifugal separation device for centrifugally separating foreign matter contained in liquid flowing through a water channel, and a washing machine including the centrifugal separation device. Background Art

[0002] As an example of mounting a centrifugal separator on a washing machine, it is considered that the centrifugal separator is used to separate foreign matter such as stains separated from the laundry during washing from the washing water to purify the washing water. According to this structure, it is possible to suppress the separated stains from attaching to the laundry again (for example, see Patent Document 1).

[0003] Figure 8 It is a cross-sectional view showing the structure of the main part of a centrifugal separator 51 mounted in a conventional washing machine. Fig. 9 yes Figure 8 QQ section view.

[0004] The centrifugal separator 51 is provided in a water passage 52 for circulating washing water in a washing tank (not shown) to centrifugally separate foreign matter contained in the washing water in the washing tank. To this end, the centrifugal separator 51 includes: a cylindrical housing 53 which is connected to the water passage 52; a cylindrical rotating drum 54 which is rotatably provided in the housing 53; a drum motor 55 which drives the rotating drum 54 to rotate; and a swirl flow generating unit 56 into which the washing water flows from the water passage 52.

[0005] The water channel 52 is connected to the swirl flow generating section 56 in a manner that is biased to the side relative to the center of the cylindrical swirl flow generating section 56 and communicates with the swirl flow generating section 56. Then, the washing water containing foreign matter flows from the water channel 52 into the swirl flow generating section 56 as indicated by the arrow X, is given a swirl component in the swirl flow generating section 56, and flows into the rotating drum 54 from the washing water inlet 57.

[0006] The rotating drum 54 is rotated at high speed as indicated by the arrow R by the drum motor 55. Therefore, the washing water flowing into the rotating drum 54 swirls at high speed in the rotating drum 54 as indicated by the arrow S. Due to the centrifugal force generated by the swirling flow, foreign matter contained in the washing water is gathered toward the inner peripheral surface 58 of the rotating drum 54. The washing water from which foreign matter has been removed is configured to be ejected into the water channel 52 by the pump action generated by the pump blades 60 provided in the pump unit 59, and circulates between the water channel 52 and the washing tank.

[0007] Prior art literature

[0008] Patent Literature

[0009] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2018-183277 Summary of the invention

[0010] However, in the conventional structure, there is a problem that it is difficult to separate relatively light foreign matter such as small foreign matter and foreign matter whose specific gravity is not much different from that of water, which is present in the washing water flowing in the centrifugal separator 51 .

[0011] Specifically, relatively light foreign matter such as smaller foreign matter and foreign matter having a specific gravity not different from that of water gradually gathers toward the inner peripheral surface 58 of the rotating drum 54. Therefore, in order to separate the foreign matter in the rotating drum 54 by centrifugal force, it is desirable to allow the washing water to flow into the rotating drum 54 from the washing water inlet 57 as close to the outer periphery as possible.

[0012] However, in the swirling flow generating section 56, the pressure on the central side is lower than the pressure on the peripheral side. Therefore, a short flow that swirls from the peripheral side to the central side is likely to be generated, especially near the bottom surface 62 of the swirling flow generating section 56 where the swirling force is weak, as indicated by the arrow Z. Lighter foreign matter and the like are likely to move toward the central side of the swirling flow generating section 56 due to this flow, and therefore cannot flow into the rotating drum 54 from the peripheral position of the washing water inlet 57, and often directly flows out of the centrifugal separator 51 without being separated by the swirling flow in the rotating drum 54. In this way, in the conventional centrifugal separator, there is a case where foreign matter cannot be captured.

[0013] The present disclosure provides a centrifugal separation device and a washing machine equipped with the centrifugal separation device. In the centrifugal separation device and the washing machine equipped with the centrifugal separation device, the separation of foreign matter present in the washing water can be promoted by reducing the short flow from the outer peripheral side to the central side generated near the bottom surface of the swirl flow generating part.

[0014] The centrifugal separation device disclosed in the present invention is a centrifugal separation device that is arranged in a waterway and centrifugally separates foreign matter contained in a liquid flowing through the waterway. The centrifugal separation device includes: a shell that is connected to the waterway; and a hollow rotating drum that is rotatably arranged in the shell. In addition, the centrifugal separation device includes: a liquid inlet that allows liquid to flow into the rotating drum from the waterway; and a liquid outlet that allows liquid to flow out from the rotating drum to the waterway. In addition, the centrifugal separation device includes: a drum motor that drives the rotating drum to rotate; and a swirl flow generating portion that is arranged on the upstream side of the liquid inlet and has a bottom surface at a position opposite to the liquid inlet. The swirl flow generating portion includes: a cylindrical portion that is connected to the liquid inlet; a liquid inlet portion that allows liquid to flow into the cylindrical portion from the waterway; and a swirl flow path that includes a convex portion and one or more enlarged portions that causes the liquid flowing in from the liquid inlet portion to swirl. The convex portion and the enlarged portion are arranged in a manner that the center is consistent with the central axis of the cylindrical portion. The enlarged portion is arranged on the bottom surface and has a diameter larger than that of the convex portion. The convex portion is formed in a cylindrical shape from the enlarged portion toward the liquid inlet side.

[0015] In addition, the washing machine of the present disclosure comprises: the centrifugal separator described above; a washing tank that stores laundry and washing water as liquid; a water channel that circulates the washing water in the washing tank; and a pump unit that is provided in the water channel and circulates the washing water. The centrifugal separator is provided in the water channel and centrifugally separates foreign matter contained in the washing water flowing through the water channel.

[0016] In the centrifugal separator and the washing machine equipped with the centrifugal separator of the present disclosure, separation of foreign matter in liquid (washing water) can be promoted by reducing short-circuit flows from the outer peripheral side to the central side generated near the bottom surface of the swirl flow generating unit. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0017] Figure 1 This is a schematic configuration diagram of a washing machine including the centrifugal separation device in the first embodiment.

[0018] Figure 2 This is a cross-sectional view of the main parts of the centrifugal separator in Embodiment 1.

[0019] Figure 3 It is a cross-sectional view taken along line EE of the centrifugal separator in the first embodiment.

[0020] Figure 4 It is an FF cross-sectional view of the centrifugal separation device in Embodiment 1.

[0021] Figure 5 This is a block diagram of the structure of a washing machine including the centrifugal separation device in the first embodiment.

[0022] Figure 6 This is a cross-sectional view of the main parts of the centrifugal separation device in the second embodiment.

[0023] Figure 7 It is a NN cross-sectional view of the centrifugal separation device in Embodiment 2.

[0024] Figure 8 This is a cross-sectional view of a main part of a centrifugal separator installed in a conventional washing machine.

[0025] Fig. 9 It is a QQ cross-sectional view of a centrifugal separation device mounted on a conventional washing machine. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0026] Below, while referring to the attached Figure 1 The embodiments are described in detail. However, there are cases where unnecessary detailed descriptions are omitted. For example, there are cases where detailed descriptions of well-known matters are omitted, or repeated descriptions of substantially the same structures are omitted.

[0027] In addition, the drawings and the following description are provided for those skilled in the art to fully understand the present disclosure, and are not intended to limit the subject matter described in the claims.

[0028] In the following embodiments, an example of using the centrifugal separation device of the present disclosure in a washing machine is described. In addition, the centrifugal separation device of the present disclosure is not limited to being used in a washing machine, but can be used as a device for separating foreign matter contained in a liquid flowing through a waterway. In addition, in the present disclosure, there is a case where the upstream side in the flow of the liquid is simply described as the upstream side and the downstream side in the flow of the liquid is simply described as the downstream side.

[0029] (Implementation Method 1)

[0030] [1-1. Structure]

[0031] Figure 1 1 is a diagram showing a schematic structure of a washing machine 100 having a centrifugal separation device 20A in Embodiment 1 of the present disclosure. Figure 1 In the case where the washing machine 100 is set as shown in the figure (hereinafter also referred to as the "set state"), the vertical direction is described as the up and down direction. In addition, there is a case where the side where the door 11 is located in the set state is described as the front side and the opposite side is described as the rear side. Figure 1 As shown, the washing machine 100 includes: an outer tank 1 as an example of a washing tank, which stores laundry 5 and washing water as an example of liquid; and a rotating tank 4 which is rotatably provided in the outer tank 1. In addition, the laundry 5 may be cloth products or leather products other than clothes worn by people, such as towels, bedding, curtains, bedding, shoes, and other articles that can be washed.

[0032] The outer tank 1 is formed in a bottomed cylindrical shape and is elastically supported by a plurality of suspension mechanisms 3 inside a casing 2 constituting an outer frame of the washing machine 100. The rotary tank 4 is formed in a bottomed cylindrical shape and is provided inside the outer tank 1. In addition, an inlet 6 is provided on the front surface side of the rotary tank 4 (at the Figure 1 left side).

[0033] The rotating tank 4 is configured to be rotatable around the tank rotation axis 7 and to contain laundry 5. A plurality of (e.g., three) baffles 8 and a plurality of small holes 9 are provided on the peripheral wall of the rotating tank 4. In addition, the interior of the outer tank 1 and the interior of the rotating tank 4 are connected via the small holes 9. The outer tank 1, the rotating tank 4, and the tank rotation axis 7 are arranged at an angle θ (e.g., 20°) relative to the horizontal in a manner that the front is high and the back is low (in Figure 1 The center is the upper left direction) and is set to be tilted.

[0034] The rotating tank 4 is configured to rotate freely forward and reversely by a motor 10 provided at the rear of the outer tank 1. The motor 10 is configured, for example, by a brushless DC motor. Figure 6 ) by the inverter control, the motor 10 can freely change the rotation speed of the rotating tank 4.

[0035] A door 11 formed in a substantially circular shape is provided on the front surface of the housing 2. The user opens and closes the door 11 to take out and put laundry 5 from the inlet 6 into the rotating tank 4. The opening 1a of the outer tank 1 is formed opposite to the inlet 6. In addition, the opening 1a and the housing 2 are connected together with an airtight structure by a bellows-shaped seal 12 that is retractable.

[0036] The water supply port 13 is provided at the upper rear surface of the housing 2, and supplies washing water. The water supply port 13 is connected to a tap 13a of a water pipe. Therefore, the washing water is tap water supplied from the water supply port 13. In addition, the water supply valve 14 and the detergent box 15 are provided on the downstream side of the water supply port 13. The water supply valve 14 is driven by the control unit 31 to open and close, and the supply and stop of washing water are performed.

[0037] If Figure 1 As indicated by arrow A in the figure, the detergent box 15 is configured so that the detergent insertion portion 15a can be pulled out from the detergent box 15 toward the front surface side. According to this structure, the user can easily insert the detergent into the detergent box 15. The washing water supplied from the water supply port 13 flows into the detergent box 15. And the washing water flows into the outer tank 1 while dissolving the detergent inserted into the detergent box 15. The flow of the washing water is indicated by arrow B.

[0038] In addition, a drain port 16 for draining washing water is provided at the bottom of the outer tub 1. A drain passage 17 is connected to the drain port 16. A drain valve 18 is provided in the drain passage 17. The drain valve 18 is opened and closed by the control unit 31, so that the washing water is accumulated in the outer tub 1 or discharged to the outside of the casing 2.

[0039] One end of the water channel 19 is connected to the drain channel 17, and the other end is connected to the front lower part of the outer tub 1. Here, the water channel 19 is located below the outer tub 1 and is formed in the front-rear direction of the housing 2. In addition, the water channel 19 is connected to the centrifugal separator 20A provided below the outer tub 1. In addition, the water channel 19 includes: a water channel 19a that connects the drain channel 17 and the centrifugal separator 20A; and a water channel 19b that connects the centrifugal separator 20A and the front lower part of the outer tub 1. And the washing water in the outer tub 1 flows into the centrifugal separator 20A through the water channel 19a. In addition, the washing water that has passed through the centrifugal separator 20A flows out into the outer tub 1 through the water channel 19b. That is, the water channel 19 circulates the washing water in the outer tub 1.

[0040] When the drain valve 18 is closed, the washing water flows from the drain port 16 through the drain path 17 to the water path 19a, and then passes through the centrifugal separator 20A. When passing through the centrifugal separator 20A, foreign matter contained in the washing water is separated as described below. Here, the foreign matter includes, for example, stains and lint removed from the laundry 5, and water softener contained in the detergent dissolved in the washing water.

[0041] Figure 2 It is a cross-sectional view showing the structure of the main part of the centrifugal separation device 20A in this embodiment. Figure 3 yes Figure 2 EE cross-sectional view. Figure 4 yes Figure 2 FF cross-sectional view.

[0042] The centrifugal separator 20A is a device that is provided in the water channel 19 and centrifugally separates foreign matter contained in the liquid (washing water) flowing through the water channel 19. Figure 2 As shown, the centrifugal separation device 20A includes: a housing 21 which is connected to the water channel 19; a hollow rotating drum 22 which is rotatably provided in the housing 21; and a drum motor 23 which drives the rotating drum 22 to rotate.

[0043] The rotating cylinder 22 is provided with a liquid inlet 22a for allowing liquid to flow into the rotating cylinder 22 from the water channel 19a, and a liquid outlet 22b for allowing liquid to flow out of the rotating cylinder 22 to the water channel 19b. The rotating cylinder 22 has a cylindrical inner peripheral surface 22c. The rotating axis 22d of the rotating cylinder 22 is set in the vertical direction.

[0044] The centrifugal separator 20A in this embodiment is mounted on the washing machine 100, so the liquid is washing water for washing the laundry 5. Therefore, in the following description, the liquid is described as washing water. In addition, washing water includes water containing detergent (such as tap water), water without detergent, rinsing water during rinsing operation, etc.

[0045] like Figure 2 As shown, the washing water in the outer tank 1 passes through the water path 19a (see arrow W) and flows into the rotating drum 22 from the liquid inlet 22a provided at the central portion of the bottom surface of the rotating drum 22. Thereafter, the washing water flowing into the rotating drum 22 flows out from the liquid outlet 22b provided at the upper portion of the rotating drum 22 to the water path 19b. In this way, since the liquid inlet 22a is located below the liquid outlet 22b, the washing water passing through the centrifugal separator 20A flows from the bottom to the top in the rotating drum 22. In addition, in addition to being provided in a manner that the flow direction of the washing water is a vertical direction as in the present embodiment, the centrifugal separator 20A may also be provided in a manner that the washing water flows in a horizontal direction or an inclined direction.

[0046] The drum motor 23 is set in such a way that the rotating drum 22 rotates at a high speed of, for example, about 4000 rpm. As a result, the washing water introduced into the rotating drum 22 swirls in the rotating drum 22, generating a high-speed swirling flow. While the washing water passes through the rotating drum 22, it is subjected to centrifugal force due to the high-speed rotation of the rotating drum 22. As a result, foreign matter contained in the washing water is centrifugally separated and gathered toward the inner peripheral surface 22c of the rotating drum 22.

[0047] The inner circumferential surface 22c is centered on the rotation axis 22d of the rotating drum 22, and the diameter of the inner circumferential surface 22c is larger than the maximum diameter of the liquid inlet 22a and the maximum diameter of the liquid outlet 22b. Therefore, the centrifugal force increases as one moves from the rotation axis 22d of the rotating drum 22 toward the inner circumferential surface 22c.

[0048] Therefore, the closer the foreign matter separated from the washing water passing through the rotary drum 22 by the centrifugal force is to the inner peripheral surface 22c of the rotary drum 22, the stronger the centrifugal force is to hold it on the inner peripheral surface 22c. As a result, the foreign matter separated by the centrifugal force is not sucked back by the circulating flow of the washing water passing through the rotary drum 22. That is, the centrifugal separation device 20A can suppress the situation where the stains are attached to the laundry 5 again, and the washing machine 100 equipped with the centrifugal separation device 20A can improve the cleaning power.

[0049] In addition, in the centrifugal separation device 20A, the swirl flow generating section 24 is provided on the inflow side of the washing water passing through the shell 21. That is, the swirl flow generating section 24 is provided on the upstream side of the liquid inlet 22a, and has a bottom surface 24c at a position opposite to the liquid inlet 22a. The swirl flow generating section 24 and the shell 21 are formed integrally, and have a cylindrical portion 25 and a vortex portion 26. The cylindrical portion 25 is configured to be connected to the liquid inlet 22a, and the central axis 25a of the cylindrical portion 25 is consistent with the rotation axis 22d of the rotating drum 22. The vortex portion 26 is provided on the upstream side of the cylindrical portion 25, and is connected to the cylindrical portion 25 and the waterway 19a. The washing water is given a swirl component in the swirl flow generating section 24 (refer to Figure 2 As shown by the arrow D in the figure, the liquid flows into the rotating cylinder 22 from the liquid inlet 22a.

[0050] That is, in the scroll portion 26, as Figure 3 As shown, the side wall 26a of the vortex portion 26 and the outer peripheral side wall 19c of the water channel 19a are tangentially connected by the first connection portion 27a. In addition, the side wall 26a of the vortex portion 26 and the side wall 25b of the cylindrical portion 25 are tangentially connected by the second connection portion 27b.

[0051] The liquid inlet 28 is configured so that liquid (washing water) flows from the water channel 19a to the vortex portion 26. That is, the liquid inlet 28 is configured so that washing water flows from the water channel 19a to the cylindrical portion 25 via the vortex portion 26. In the liquid inlet 28, a liquid inlet 28a is substantially formed at the first connection portion 27a, and the first connection portion 27a where the liquid inlet 28 and the vortex portion 26 are connected is disposed at a position closer to the outside than the side wall 25b of the cylindrical portion 25. Furthermore, in the present embodiment, in the liquid inlet 28, the inner peripheral side wall 19d on the inner peripheral side of the water channel 19a is tangentially connected to the side wall 25b of the cylindrical portion 25, and the liquid inlet 28 (liquid inlet 28a) is disposed as a whole outside the side wall 25b (radius H) of the cylindrical portion 25. That is, the liquid inlet 28 is disposed at a position closer to the outside than the side wall 25b of the cylindrical portion 25. Here, in the present embodiment, the thicknesses of the outer peripheral side wall 19c, the inner peripheral side wall 19d of the water channel 19a, the side wall 25b of the cylindrical portion 25, and the side wall 26a of the scroll portion 26 are respectively set to be constant.

[0052] In addition, the distance G from the central axis 25a of the cylindrical portion 25 to the side wall 26a of the vortex portion 26 is changed to be continuously shortened from the first connection portion 27a in the same manner as the radius H of the cylindrical portion 25 at the second connection portion 27b. For example, the side wall 26a of the vortex portion 26 is configured to gradually approach the side wall 25b of the cylindrical portion 25 in accordance with the distance from the liquid inflow portion 28 as the first connection portion 27a to the second connection portion 27b on the downstream side. That is, the side wall 26a of the vortex portion 26 is configured to gradually approach the side wall 25b of the cylindrical portion 25 from the outer peripheral side wall 19c of the water channel 19a.

[0053] Furthermore, the first connection portion 27 a and the second connection portion 27 b are configured to be located at opposite positions across the central axis 25 a of the cylindrical portion 25 .

[0054] At this time, the angle from the first connection part 27a to the second connection part 27b is defined as angle α1. Angle α1 is, for example, 90°≤α1≤270°. Preferably, it is 170°≤α1≤190°. In the present embodiment, angle α1 is 180°.

[0055] like Figure 2 As shown in FIG. 1 , a convex portion 37 is provided in the swirling flow generating portion 24. As described later, the convex portion 37 is formed in a cylindrical shape from an enlarged portion 38 provided on the bottom surface 24c of the swirling flow generating portion 24 toward the liquid inlet 22a side. The center of the convex portion 37 coincides with the central axis 25a of the cylindrical portion 25 and the rotation axis 22d of the rotating cylinder 22. That is, the convex portion 37 is provided in a manner that the center coincides with the central axis 25a of the cylindrical portion 25.

[0056] The swirl flow generating section 24 is provided with a swirl flow path 36 for swirling the washing water flowing in from the liquid inlet 28. The swirl flow path 36 includes a convex portion 37 and an enlarged portion 38. The swirl flow path 36 is formed into a ring shape by the outer peripheral wall of the convex portion 37 and the side wall 24a of the swirl flow generating section 24. Figure 3 As shown, the radius M1 of the convex portion 37 is configured to be smaller than the vertical distance L. Here, the vertical distance L is the distance between the line extending the inner peripheral side wall 19d on the central axis 25a side of the cylindrical portion 25 of the water channel 19a and the central axis 25a of the cylindrical portion 25, in the vertical direction relative to the line extending the inner peripheral side wall 19d.

[0057] The washing water flowing into the lower part of swirl flow generating unit 24 from liquid inlet 28 swirls through swirl flow path 36. The washing water having the swirl component rises in cylindrical portion 25 and flows into rotary drum 22 from liquid inlet 22a.

[0058] In addition, if Figure 2 As shown, the upper surface 37a of the convex portion 37 is inclined downward from the central axis 25a to the outer periphery. Therefore, in the drainage process described later, when the foreign matter in the rotating drum 22 is discharged downward, the foreign matter slides on the upper surface 37a of the convex portion 37, and the foreign matter does not remain on the upper surface 37a. The convex portion 37 can also be hollow.

[0059] Furthermore, an expansion portion 38 is provided on the bottom surface 24c of the swirling flow generating portion 24. The expansion portion 38 is formed as a step in a cylindrical shape having a larger diameter and a lower height than the convex portion 37. The expansion portion 38 is provided so that the center coincides with the central axis 25a of the cylindrical portion 25. The expansion portion 38 is formed to be lower than the height of the liquid inlet portion 28. The height of the expansion portion 38 is preferably less than 1 / 2 of the height of the liquid inlet portion 28.

[0060] In addition, the outer peripheral wall of the expanded portion 38 and the side wall 26a of the scroll portion 26 form a bottom surface swirl flow path 36a. Figure 3 As shown, similar to the radius M1 of the convex portion 37 , the radius M2 of the expanded portion 38 is configured to be smaller than the vertical distance L between the inner peripheral side wall 19d of the water channel 19a on the central axis 25a side of the cylindrical portion 25 and the central axis 25a of the cylindrical portion 25 .

[0061] like Figure 2 and Figure 4 As shown, in the centrifugal separator 20A, the pump unit 29 is provided on the outflow side of the washing water passing through the housing 21. That is, the washing machine 100 includes the pump unit 29, which is provided in the water path 19 to circulate the washing water. The pump unit 29 is provided with a pump blade 29a formed integrally with the rotating drum 22. The water path 19b is connected to the pump unit 29 in a manner offset to the side from the rotation center of the pump blade 29a.

[0062] The pump blade 29a rotates together with the rotating drum 22 due to the drive of the drum motor 23. Due to the pumping action of the pump blade 29a, the washing water in the outer tub 1 flows through the water channel 19 formed below the outer tub 1 and passes through the centrifugal separator 20A. Figure 1 As indicated by arrow C in FIG. 1 , the liquid circulates between the centrifugal separator 20A and the outer tank 1 .

[0063] At this time, the flow rate of the washing water flowing through the water channel 19 can be set according to the capacity of the pump unit 29. The capacity of the pump unit 29 can be set according to the number (8 in this embodiment) and shape of the pump blades 29a in addition to the rotation speed of the pump blades 29a.

[0064] The flow rate of the circulating flow of the washing water passing through the centrifugal separator 20A is V1, and the flow rate of the swirling flow of the washing water swirling in the rotary drum 22 is V2. In this embodiment, the flow rate V2 of the swirling flow is higher than the flow rate V1 of the circulating flow, that is, V2>V1.

[0065] like Figure 1 As shown, the control unit 31 is disposed at the lower portion of the housing 2 . Figure 5 1 is a block diagram showing a control structure of a washing machine 100 having a centrifugal separator 20A. The output of a cloth amount detection unit 32 for detecting the amount of laundry 5 put into the rotary tank 4, the output of a water amount detection unit 33 for detecting the amount of washing water supplied to the outer tank 1, and the output of a rotation detection unit 34 for detecting the rotation drive of the rotary tank 4 are input to the control unit 31. The control unit 31 controls the drive of the motor 10, the water supply valve 14, the drain valve 18, and the drum motor 23 based on the washing program set by the user using the operation display unit 35 to perform a washing operation. The washing operation includes various processes such as a washing process, a rinsing process, and a dehydration process. In addition, the control unit 31 can also be a dedicated hardware circuit designed to realize the above-mentioned function, or a control unit that realizes the function by executing a program stored in a memory by a processor.

[0066] [1-2. Action]

[0067] The operation and function of the washing machine 100 having the centrifugal separator 20A configured as described above are described below. In the washing operation, the washing process is a process in which washing water in which detergent is dissolved is supplied to the outer tank 1, and the washing is performed by the rotation of the rotary tank 4, and the stains of the laundry 5 are washed away. After the washing process, in the rinsing process, for example, the first intermediate dehydration operation, the first rinsing operation, the second intermediate dehydration operation, and the second rinsing operation are performed. Then, after the rinsing process, the dehydration process as the last step of the washing operation is performed.

[0068] First, at the beginning of the washing operation, the user opens the door 11 provided on the front surface of the housing 2 and puts the laundry 5 into the rotating tank 4 from the inlet 6. Then, the user operates the start switch (not shown) of the operation display unit 35 to start the washing operation.

[0069] When the washing operation starts, control unit 31 first detects the amount of laundry 5 put into rotary drum 4 using cloth amount detector 32. Control unit 31 sets the time and amount of washing water for each step such as washing, rinsing and dehydration according to the detected amount of laundry 5.

[0070] In the washing process, the control unit 31 opens the water supply valve 14 when it is estimated that the detergent is added to the washing process while the drain valve 18 is closed. As a result, washing water flows from the water supply port 13 to the detergent box 15. Figure 1 As shown by arrow B in , washing water is supplied to outer tub 1 while dissolving the detergent. When the amount of washing water accumulated in outer tub 1 reaches a predetermined amount preset according to the amount of laundry 5, control unit 31 closes water supply valve 14 to stop water supply.

[0071] When the above water supply operation is completed, the control unit 31 drives the motor 10 to rotate the rotating tub 4 to perform the washing operation. When the washing operation is performed for a predetermined time, the control unit 31 opens the drain valve 18 to discharge the washing water in the outer tub 1 to the outside of the machine. The control unit 31 transfers to the rinsing process after the drainage is completed.

[0072] In the rinsing process, similarly to the washing process, the control unit 31 opens the water supply valve 14 while the drain valve 18 is closed to supply a predetermined amount of washing water into the outer tub 1, and rotates the rotary tub 4 forward and reversely. Thus, the laundry 5 is rinsed. The washing water here is water without detergent, i.e., rinsing water. After the drainage is completed, the control unit 31 transfers to the dehydration process.

[0073] Then, in the dehydration process, control unit 31 uses motor 10 to rotate rotary tub 4 containing laundry 5 at high speed to dehydrate the laundry, and opens drain valve 18 to drain the washing water in outer tub 1 to the outside of the machine.

[0074] As described above, the control unit 31 performs the washing process, the rinsing process, and the dehydration process, and ends the washing operation.

[0075] Next, the function of purifying washing water in the centrifugal separator 20A is described. In the washing process, washing water contains various foreign matters such as dirt. Foreign matters that can be separated by the centrifugal separator 20A include foreign matters with a specific gravity heavier than water. For example, the dirt is sand, fiber scraps, hair, keratin stains, etc. In addition, even foreign matters with a specific gravity lighter than water and attached to foreign matters with a specific gravity heavier than water such as lint can be separated. For example, there are oils and fats represented by sebum.

[0076] In the washing process, the control unit 31 drives the drum motor 23 to circulate the washing water containing dirt in the outer tank 1 to the centrifugal separation device 20A. That is, by driving the drum motor 23, the rotary drum 22 and the pump blade 29a rotate. The washing water in the outer tank 1 flows out from the drain port 16 due to the pump action generated by the pump blade 29a, and flows into the vortex portion 26 of the swirl flow generating portion 24 from the liquid inlet portion 28 through the water path 19a because the drain valve 18 is closed.

[0077] like Figure 3 As shown, the water passage 19a is provided on the outer peripheral side of the cylindrical portion 25. In addition, the liquid inlet portion 28 is provided at a position further outward than the side wall 25b of the cylindrical portion 25. Therefore, the flow of the washing water flowing from the water passage 19a to the vortex portion 26 (arrow W) does not hinder the flow of the washing water flowing once in the vortex portion 26 (arrow J), and a flow (arrow K) along the side wall 25b of the cylindrical portion 25 can be generated. Thus, the vortex flow generated in the vortex flow generating portion 24 is generated in such a manner that the center of the vortex and the central axis 25a of the cylindrical portion 25 are substantially consistent.

[0078] Thus, the wash water to which the swirling component is applied in swirling flow generating unit 24 flows from liquid inlet 22a into rotary drum 22. Rotary drum 22 is rotated by drum motor 23.

[0079] Here, in the case where the center position of the vortex of the vortex flow generated in the vortex flow generating unit 24 deviates from the rotation axis 22d of the rotating drum 22, the vortex flow is disturbed at the liquid inlet 22a, and the vortex flow in the downstream rotating drum 22 is disturbed. However, in the present embodiment, as described above, the center of the vortex of the vortex flow generated in the vortex flow generating unit 24 is substantially consistent with the rotation axis 22d of the rotating drum 22, so that the washing water introduced into the rotating drum 22 can generate a high-speed vortex flow with less disturbance in the rotating drum 22.

[0080] As described above, washing water is introduced into the rotating drum 22 from the liquid inlet 22a, passes through the rotating drum 22, and flows out from the liquid outlet 22b. At this time, foreign matter (such as sand, hair, keratin stains, etc.) that is heavier than the washing water and separated from the laundry 5 is gathered toward the inner circumferential surface 22c of the rotating drum 22 based on the strong centrifugal force generated by the high-speed swirling flow with less turbulence. In addition, for stains (such as oils and fats represented by sebum) that are lighter than water among the stains contained in the washing water, since the stains attached to the stains (such as thread ends) that are heavier than water are separated from the washing water, they can also be removed from the washing water. In this way, the dirt specific to the laundry contained in the washing water is centrifugally separated from the washing water and removed.

[0081] In this embodiment, if Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown in FIG. 2 , the convex portion 37 and the enlarged portion 38 are provided in the swirl flow generating portion 24 in such a manner that the center coincides with the central axis 25a of the cylindrical portion 25. Furthermore, in order to further enhance the effect of the convex portion 37, the enlarged portion 38 is provided on the bottom surface 24c of the swirl flow generating portion 24 in such a manner as to form a step having a larger diameter and a lower height than the convex portion 37. That is, the convex portion 37 eliminates the flow path on the central side where the pressure is reduced. As a result, the washing water flowing in from the liquid inlet portion 28 is suppressed from short-circuiting from the outer peripheral side to the central side as indicated by the arrow P.

[0082] Furthermore, the washing water swirls at a position away from the convex portion 37 by the expansion portion 38, so that the pressure from the outer peripheral side to the central side of the flow transferred from the arrow O to the arrow P can be reduced. Therefore, the effect of the convex portion 37 is also improved, and the swirling flow generating portion 24 can make the washing water flow into the liquid inlet 22a of the rotary drum 22 sufficiently close to the outer peripheral position. Thus, the centrifugal separation device 20A can promote the separation of foreign matter contained in the washing water.

[0083] Specifically, the radius M1 of the convex portion 37 and the radius M2 of the enlarged portion 38 are configured to be smaller than the vertical distance L between the inner peripheral side wall 19d of the water channel 19a on the side of the central axis 25a of the cylindrical portion 25 and the central axis 25a of the cylindrical portion 25. Therefore, the washing water flowing from the water channel 19a into the swirl flow generating portion 24 does not directly hit the convex portion 37 and the enlarged portion 38, and thus the swirl flow generated in the swirl flow generating portion 24 by the convex portion 37 and the enlarged portion 38 is not greatly disturbed.

[0084] Furthermore, the water channel 19a is provided at a position outward from the side wall 25b of the cylindrical portion 25, so that it is easy to increase the vertical distance L between the inner peripheral side wall 19d of the water channel 19a on the central axis 25a side of the cylindrical portion 25 and the central axis 25a of the cylindrical portion 25. Therefore, the swirl flow generating portion 24 can increase the radius M2 of the expansion portion 38, and can increase the swirl diameter after passing the expansion portion 38 indicated by the arrow P, thereby suppressing short-circuiting. Thus, the swirl flow generating portion 24 can make the washing water flow in from the liquid inlet 22a of the rotary drum 22 at a position closer to the outer periphery.

[0085] In particular, in the present embodiment, the liquid inlet 28 (liquid inlet 28a) is entirely provided outside the side wall 25b of the cylindrical portion 25. Therefore, the washing water can smoothly flow from the water channel 19a to the liquid inlet 28 having a larger radius, and the above-mentioned effect can be exerted more greatly. In addition, in the present embodiment, the radius M2 of the expansion portion 38 is formed to be smaller than the vertical distance L, but is not limited thereto, and can also be formed to be as large as the vertical distance L.

[0086] Furthermore, it is preferable that the height of the expanded portion 38 is formed to be less than 1 / 2 of the height of the liquid inlet 28a. This can suppress an increase in pressure loss caused by excessive narrowing of the swirl flow path 36.

[0087] In addition, in the present embodiment, the structure in which the enlarged portion 38 has only one layer is described, but the invention is not limited thereto, and multiple layers may be provided. For example, the enlarged portion 38 may be formed so that the diameter of the uppermost layer becomes equal to or greater than the diameter of the convex portion 37, and the diameter gradually decreases from the lowermost layer toward the uppermost layer. In addition, the enlarged portion 38 is exemplified as a cylindrical shape with a constant radius, but the invention is not limited thereto, and may be a truncated cone shape with an upper surface radius equal to or greater than the radius of the convex portion 37, and the truncated cone shape is also included in the cylindrical shape.

[0088] On the other hand, in the rotating drum 22 of the centrifugal separator 20A, the washing water passes from bottom to top while swirling. At this time, there is a case where bubbles generated by the detergent in the washing water and bubbles in the water path 19 enter the rotating drum 22 from the swirling flow generating section 24. Even in such a case, first, the bubbles lighter than water are concentrated in the center of the rotating drum 22 due to the swirling flow, and then, the action of wanting to float upward cooperates with the flow of the washing water from bottom to top, so that the bubbles are easily discharged from the liquid outlet 22b to the outside of the rotating drum 22.

[0089] Thus, the centrifugal separator 20A can suppress the imbalance of the distribution of water and bubbles in the rotating drum 22 caused by the bubbles lighter than water being retained in the rotating drum 22, and can minimize the change in the torque of the drum motor 23 required to rotate the rotating drum 22. In addition, the centrifugal separator 20A can also suppress the change in the rotation speed of the rotating drum 22 caused by the torque change.

[0090] In addition, the washing water from which the dirt is separated in the rotating drum 22 flows out from the liquid outlet 22b to the pump unit 29. In the present embodiment, the center of the vortex of the swirling flow generated in the swirling flow generating unit 24 is roughly consistent with the rotation axis 22d of the rotating drum 22, so the centrifugal separator 20A can generate a swirling flow with less turbulence in the rotating drum 22. Therefore, the centrifugal separator 20A can make the washing water flow evenly between the pump blades 29a. Therefore, the centrifugal separator 20A has a structure that does not cause a decrease in pump performance due to uneven inflow, a decrease in durability due to imbalance caused by uneven pressure on the pump blades 29a, and the like.

[0091] In addition, the washing water flowing into the pump unit 29 flows into the outer tank 1 through the water path 19b based on the pumping action of the pump blade 29a. And, the washing water in the outer tank 1 circulates between the outer tank 1 and the centrifugal separator 20A through the water path 19 based on the pumping function of the centrifugal separator 20A, and the washing water is purified. Thus, the centrifugal separator 20A can prevent the separated dirt from adhering to the laundry 5 again.

[0092] Here, in the centrifugal separator 20A, the pump blade 29a having a pumping function is integrally provided with the rotary drum 22, and the control unit 31 rotates the rotary drum 22 to circulate the washing water between the centrifugal separator 20A and the outer tub 1. Therefore, the washing machine 100 does not need to separately provide a pump for circulating the washing water and the centrifugal separator 20A, and the structure can be simplified.

[0093] In addition, the control unit 31 opens the drain valve 18 during drainage, and causes the washing water to flow in the direction opposite to the direction of the arrow C circulating in the water path 19. Foreign matter collected on the inner peripheral surface 22c of the rotary drum 22 is discharged to the outside of the casing 2 through the drain valve 18 along with the flow of the washing water. Thus, the washing machine 100 does not need to be configured to discard a portion of the purified washing water during centrifugal separation.

[0094] In addition, the separation of foreign matter contained in the washing water can be performed in the rinsing process in addition to the washing process. In the rinsing process, the centrifugal separator 20A is used to separate foreign matter that comes into the washing water from the laundry 5, thereby the washing machine 100 can improve the rinsing effect. During rinsing, zeolite, which is heavier than water in the cleaning auxiliary agent contained in the detergent, can be removed, and the rinsing performance is improved.

[0095] [1-3. Effects, etc.]

[0096] As described above, the centrifugal separator 20A of the present embodiment is a centrifugal separator that is provided in the water channel 19 and centrifugally separates foreign matter contained in the liquid (washing water) flowing through the water channel 19. The centrifugal separator 20A includes a housing 21 that is connected to the water channel 19 and a hollow rotating drum 22 that is rotatably provided in the housing 21. In addition, the centrifugal separator 20A includes a liquid inlet 22a that allows liquid to flow into the rotating drum 22 from the water channel 19a and a liquid outlet 22b that allows liquid to flow out of the rotating drum 22 from the inside of the rotating drum 22 to the water channel 19b. In addition, the centrifugal separator 20A includes a drum motor 23 that drives the rotating drum 22 to rotate and a swirling flow generating unit 24 that is provided on the upstream side of the liquid inlet 22a and has a bottom surface 24c at a position opposite to the liquid inlet 22a.

[0097] Furthermore, the swirl flow generating section 24 includes: a cylindrical section 25, which is connected to the liquid inlet 22a; a liquid inlet section 28, into which the liquid flows from the water channel 19a to the cylindrical section 25; and a swirl flow passage 36, which includes a convex section 37 and one or more enlarged sections 38, and makes the liquid flowing from the liquid inlet section 28 swirl. The convex section 37 and the enlarged section 38 are provided so that the center coincides with the central axis 25a of the cylindrical section 25. The enlarged section 38 is provided on the bottom surface 24c, and is formed to have a larger diameter than the convex section 37. The convex section 37 is formed in a cylindrical shape from the enlarged section 38 toward the liquid inlet 22a side.

[0098] Thus, in the centrifugal separator 20A, the convex portion 37 and the enlarged portion 38 are arranged in a manner that the center coincides with the central axis 25a of the cylindrical portion 25. According to this structure, the washing water flowing in from the liquid inlet portion 28 swirls at a position farther from the convex portion 37 by the enlarged portion 38 based on the action of the convex portion 37. Therefore, the short flow from the outer peripheral side to the central side generated near the bottom surface 24c of the swirl flow generating portion 24 with weak swirl force can be further suppressed. Therefore, the swirl flow generating portion 24 can make the washing water flow in from the liquid inlet 22a of the rotating drum 22 at a position close enough to the outer periphery. Thus, the centrifugal separator 20A can promote the separation of foreign matter present in the washing water.

[0099] In addition, in the above-mentioned structure, the swirl flow generating portion 24 of the present embodiment may also include a vortex portion 26 disposed on the upstream side of the cylindrical portion 25. The liquid inlet portion 28 may be disposed at a position further outward than the side wall 25b of the cylindrical portion 25. The side wall 26a of the vortex portion 26 may be configured to gradually approach the side wall 25b of the cylindrical portion 25 from the outer peripheral side wall 19c of the waterway 19a. The expansion portion 38 may also be configured such that its radius M2 is equal to or less than the distance (vertical distance L) between the line extending the inner peripheral side wall 19d of the waterway 19a and the central axis 25a of the cylindrical portion 25 in the vertical direction relative to the line extending the inner peripheral side wall 19d.

[0100] According to this structure, in the swirl flow generating section 24, the washing water that has made a circle in the swirl flow generating section 24 will not be obstructed by the flow of the washing water flowing in from the water channel 19a, and a swirl flow along the side wall 25b of the cylinder 25 can be generated. Therefore, the center of the vortex of the swirl flow flowing in the swirl flow generating section 24, the central axis 25a of the cylinder 25, and the rotation axis 22d of the rotating drum 22 can be made consistent. Therefore, the turbulence of the swirl flow generated in the swirl flow generating section 24 can be reduced, and a swirl component can be given to the washing water. As a result, the centrifugal separation device 20A can make a stronger centrifugal force act on the foreign matter contained in the washing water in the rotating drum 22, and can effectively promote the separation of foreign matter from the washing water.

[0101] In the above structure, in the liquid inlet 28, the inner peripheral side wall 19d of the water channel 19a and the side wall 25b of the cylindrical portion 25 are tangentially connected, and the liquid inlet 28 (liquid inlet 28a) is arranged as a whole outside the side wall 25b of the cylindrical portion 25.

[0102] According to this configuration, washing water can flow from the water channel 19a into the liquid inflow portion 28 having a larger radius, and the centrifugal separation device 20A can exert the above-mentioned effect to a greater extent.

[0103] Furthermore, the washing machine 100 of this embodiment includes: any one of the above-mentioned centrifugal separation devices 20A; a washing tank that stores laundry 5 and washing water as liquid; a water path 19 that circulates the washing water in the washing tank; and a pump unit 29 that is provided in the water path 19 and circulates the washing water. The centrifugal separation device 20A is provided in the water path 19 and centrifugally separates foreign matter contained in the washing water flowing through the water path 19.

[0104] According to this structure, washing machine 100 can promote the separation of foreign matter present in washing water.

[0105] (Implementation Method 2)

[0106] Below, use Figure 6 , Figure 7Implementation method 2 will be described. Figure 6 This is a cross-sectional view of a main part of a centrifugal separator 20B in the second embodiment. Figure 7 yes Figure 6 NN cross-sectional view of the centrifugal separation device 20B in the embodiment. The structure different from the first embodiment is as follows: the water channel 19a connected to the vortex flow generating part 24 does not exist at a position closer to the outside than the side wall 25b of the cylindrical part 25, and the liquid inlet part 28 is provided at a position closer to the inside than the side wall 25b of the cylindrical part 25. In other words, the side wall 26a of the vortex part 26 is the same as the side wall 25b of the cylindrical part 25. In addition, in the second embodiment, for the same parts as those in the first embodiment, the description of the first embodiment is cited.

[0107] In the centrifugal separator 20B of the second embodiment, the swirling flow generating section 24 is composed of the cylindrical section 25. The water channel 19a is connected to the cylindrical section 25 tangentially by the first connecting section 27a, and the radius M2 of the expansion section 38 is configured to be smaller than the vertical distance L between the line extending the inner peripheral side wall 19d of the water channel 19a on the central axis 25a side of the cylindrical section 25 and the central axis 25a of the cylindrical section 25. In addition, in the present embodiment, although the radius M2 of the expansion section 38 is configured to be smaller than the vertical distance L, the radius M2 of the expansion section 38 may be increased to the same extent as the vertical distance L.

[0108] The vortex portion 26 has the same inner diameter as the cylindrical portion 25. Therefore, it is not a structure that gradually decreases from a larger inner diameter as in Embodiment 1, so there is a possibility that the inflow resistance is greater than that in Embodiment 1. However, even in this case, as in Embodiment 1, the washing water flowing from the water path 19a into the swirl flow generating portion 24 does not directly touch the convex portion 37 and the expansion portion 38, so the swirl flow generated in the swirl flow generating portion 24 by the convex portion 37 and the expansion portion 38 will not be greatly disturbed. Therefore, even lighter foreign matter can be separated from the washing water.

[0109] Therefore, according to this configuration, short-circuiting from the outer peripheral side toward the center side generated near bottom surface 24c of swirl flow generating portion 24 can be reduced, and thus separation of foreign matter present in the washing water can be promoted.

[0110] (Other embodiments)

[0111] As described above, as an example of the technology in the present disclosure, the first embodiment and the second embodiment are described. However, the technology in the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and can also be applied to embodiments obtained by changes, replacements, additions, omissions, etc. In addition, each component described in the above-mentioned first embodiment and second embodiment can also be combined to form a new embodiment.

[0112] As described above, in Embodiment 1 and Embodiment 2, centrifugal separators 20A and 20B and washing machines equipped with the centrifugal separators 20A and 20B are described. That is, the washing machines in Embodiment 1 and Embodiment 2 are equipped with a washing tank composed of an outer tank 1 and a rotary tank 4 for storing laundry 5 and washing water as liquid. In addition, the washing machines in Embodiment 1 and Embodiment 2 are equipped with: a water path 19 that circulates the washing water in the washing tank; and the centrifugal separator 20A described in Embodiment 1 or the centrifugal separator 20B described in Embodiment 2, which is provided in the water path 19 and centrifugally separates foreign matter contained in the washing water flowing through the water path 19.

[0113] According to this structure, the washing machine of Embodiment 1 or Embodiment 2 can be realized, and in the washing machine of Embodiment 1 or Embodiment 2, the separation of relatively light foreign matters such as small foreign matters contained in washing water, foreign matters whose specific gravity is not much different from that of water, etc., which are separated from the laundry 5, can be effectively promoted in the centrifugal separation device 20A or the centrifugal separation device 20B. In addition, the washing machine of Embodiment 1 and Embodiment 2 can suppress the re-attachment of the dirt etc. to the laundry 5, thereby improving the washing effect.

[0114] In the first and second embodiments, the washing machine is configured such that the pump unit 29 is provided in the centrifugal separation device 20A and the centrifugal separation device 20B, and the pump blade 29a and the rotating drum 22 are rotated integrally by the drum motor 23. In addition, the washing machine of the first and second embodiments may also be configured such that a pump unit (not shown) is separately provided in the water channel 19, so that Figure 1 A circulating flow such as that indicated by arrow C occurs.

[0115] In addition, in Embodiment 1 and Embodiment 2, a drum-type washing machine is described as an example of the washing machine of the present disclosure, but it is not limited to this. In short, the washing machine in the present disclosure can be any washing machine as long as it uses washing water to wash the laundry. That is, the centrifugal separator 20A of Embodiment 1 and the centrifugal separator 20B of Embodiment 2 can also be applied to a washing machine with any structure such as a structure for beating washing like a drum-type washing machine, a structure for stirring washing like a vertical washing machine, or a structure for pressing washing in a storage shell, or a structure for spray washing. In addition, the centrifugal separator 20A and the centrifugal separator 20B are not limited to use in washing machines, and can be used as a device for separating foreign matter from liquid and purifying it.

[0116] In addition, the above-mentioned Embodiment 1 and Embodiment 2 are for illustrating the technology in the present disclosure, and therefore, various changes, substitutions, additions, omissions, etc. can be made within the scope of the claims or their equivalents.

[0117] Furthermore, any combination of the constituent elements described in the above embodiments, and any form of the present disclosure converted between methods, apparatuses, systems, recording media, computer programs, and the like are also applicable as forms of the present disclosure.

[0118] Industrial Applicability

[0119] The centrifugal separator and washing machine equipped with the centrifugal separator disclosed in the present invention are useful for centrifugal separators and washing machines equipped with the centrifugal separators that centrifugally separate foreign matter contained in liquid flowing through a water channel. The centrifugal separator and washing machine equipped with the centrifugal separator disclosed in the present invention are useful not only as household centrifugal separators and washing machines equipped with the centrifugal separators, but also as commercial centrifugal separators and washing machines equipped with the centrifugal separators.

[0120] Description of Reference Numerals

[0121] 1. Outer tank (washing tank); 1a. Opening; 2. Casing; 3. Suspension mechanism; 4. Rotating tank; 5. Washing; 6. Inlet; 7. Tank rotating shaft; 8. Baffle; 9. Small hole; 10. Motor; 11. Door; 12. Seal; 13. Water supply port; 13a. Faucet; 14. Water supply valve; 15. Detergent box; 15a. Detergent inlet; 16. Drainage port; 17. Drainage path; 18. Drainage valve; 19 , waterway; 19a, waterway; 19b, waterway; 19c, outer peripheral side wall; 19d, inner peripheral side wall; 20A, centrifugal separation device; 20B, centrifugal separation device; 21, housing; 22, rotating drum; 22a, liquid inlet; 22b, liquid outlet; 22c, inner peripheral surface; 22d, rotation axis; 23, drum motor; 24, vortex flow generating part; 24a, side wall; 24c, bottom surface; 25, cylindrical part; 25 a, center axis; 25b, side wall; 26, vortex part; 26a, side wall; 27a, first connection part; 27b, second connection part; 28, liquid inflow part; 28a, liquid inflow port; 29, pump part; 29a, pump blade; 31, control part; 32, cloth amount detection part; 33, water amount detection part; 34, rotation detection part; 35, operation display part; 36, vortex flow path; 36a, vortex flow path on the bottom part; 37, Convex portion; 37a, upper surface; 38, enlarged portion; 51, centrifugal separation device; 52, water channel; 53, shell; 54, rotating drum; 55, drum motor; 56, vortex flow generating portion; 57, washing water inlet; 58, inner circumference; 59, pump portion; 60, pump blades; 62, bottom surface; 100, washing machine; G, distance; H, radius; L, vertical distance; M1, radius; M2, radius; α1, angle; θ, angle.

Claims

1. A centrifugal separation device, which is arranged in a waterway and centrifugally separates foreign matter contained in a liquid flowing through the waterway, wherein: The centrifugal separation device comprises: A housing, which is connected to the waterway; A hollow rotating cylinder rotatably disposed in the housing; a liquid inlet for allowing the liquid to flow from the water channel into the rotating drum; a liquid outlet, which allows the liquid to flow out of the rotating drum into the water channel; a drum motor, which drives the rotating drum to rotate; as well as a swirling flow generating portion, which is provided on the upstream side of the liquid inlet and has a bottom surface at a position opposite to the liquid inlet, The swirling flow generating unit comprises: a cylindrical portion, which is in communication with the liquid inlet; a liquid inflow portion for allowing the liquid to flow from the water channel into the cylindrical portion; and The swirling flow path includes a convex portion and one or more enlarged portions, and causes the liquid flowing in from the liquid inlet portion to swirl. The convex portion and the enlarged portion are arranged in such a manner that their centers coincide with the central axis of the cylindrical portion. The enlarged portion is provided on the bottom surface and has a larger diameter than the convex portion. The convex portion is formed in a cylindrical shape from the enlarged portion toward the liquid inlet side.

2. The centrifugal separation device according to claim 1, wherein: The swirl flow generating portion further includes a vortex portion provided on the upstream side of the cylindrical portion. The liquid inlet portion is disposed at a position outside the side wall of the cylindrical portion. The side wall of the vortex portion is configured to gradually approach the side wall of the cylindrical portion from the outer peripheral side wall of the water channel. The expansion portion is configured such that a radius of the expansion portion is equal to or smaller than a distance between a line extending the inner peripheral side wall of the water channel and the central axis of the cylindrical portion in a direction perpendicular to the line.

3. The centrifugal separation device according to claim 2, wherein: In the liquid inflow portion, the inner peripheral side wall of the water channel and the side wall of the cylindrical portion are tangentially connected, and the liquid inflow portion is entirely provided outside the side wall of the cylindrical portion.

4. A washing machine, wherein: This washing machine has: The centrifugal separation device according to any one of claims 1 to 3; a washing tank that receives laundry and washing water as the liquid; the water channel circulates the washing water in the washing tub; and a pump unit, which is provided in the water channel and circulates the washing water; The centrifugal separation device is provided in the water channel and centrifugally separates the foreign matter contained in the washing water flowing through the water channel.

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