Laundry treating apparatus

Abstract

The invention provides a clothes treating apparatus which reduces the residue of sprayed liquid. The clothes treating apparatus according to the present disclosure is provided with: an accommodating tank for accommodating an object to be treated; a spray unit that sprays the liquid into the accommodating tank; and a control unit that controls the operation of the spray unit. The spraying part comprises a spraying nozzle; a first tank for storing the liquid; a switching unit provided upstream of the spray nozzle; a first path that connects the switching unit and the spray nozzle; a second path through which the liquid in the first tank is introduced into the switching unit; and a third path for introducing air or liquid into the switching unit. The switching unit is capable of switching a path communicating with the first path between the second path and the third path. The control unit executes a spray step of communicating the second path with the first path and operating the spray unit, and then executes a cleaning step of communicating the third path with the first path and operating the spray unit.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a laundry treating apparatus for treating an object to be treated such as laundry. Background Art

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a drum type washing and drying machine that supplies mist to laundry. The drum type washing and drying machine includes: a water tank; a rotary drum provided in the water tank; a circulation air path having a dehumidifying member and a heating member; and a mist generating device having a water accumulation container in the circulation air path, and generating mist by applying ultrasonic vibration to the water stored in the water accumulation container.

[0003] Prior Art Documents

[0004] Patent Documents

[0005] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2008-220561 Summary of the Invention

[0006] Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0007] The present disclosure provides a laundry treating apparatus that reduces the residue of the sprayed liquid agent.

[0008] Solutions to the Problems

[0009] A laundry treating apparatus according to one aspect of the present disclosure includes: a receiving tank for receiving an object to be treated; a spraying unit that sprays a liquid agent into the receiving tank; and a control unit that controls the operation of the spraying unit. The spraying unit includes: a spray nozzle; a first tank for storing the liquid agent; a switching unit provided at a position upstream of the spray nozzle; a first path that connects the switching unit and the spray nozzle; a second path for introducing the liquid agent in the first tank into the switching unit; and a third path for introducing air or liquid into the switching unit. The switching unit can switch the path communicating with the first path between the second path and the third path. After executing a spraying step of connecting the second path and the first path and operating the spraying unit, the control unit executes a cleaning step of connecting the third path and the first path and operating the spraying unit.

[0010] Effects of the Invention

[0011] According to the present disclosure, it is possible to provide a laundry treating apparatus that reduces the residue of the sprayed liquid agent. Brief Description of the Drawings

[0012] Figure 1 is a front view of the washing and drying machine according to Embodiment 1.

[0013] Figure 2 is a longitudinal sectional view of the main part of the washing and drying machine.

[0014] Figure 3 It is a schematic diagram showing the main structure of the liquid spraying device.

[0015] Figure 4 It is a longitudinal sectional view of the washing and drying machine including the liquid spraying device.

[0016] Figure 5 It is an explanatory diagram showing the state in which the first switching unit has switched the path to the first communication state.

[0017] Figure 6 It is an explanatory diagram showing the state in which the first switching unit has switched the path to the second communication state.

[0018] Figure 7 It is an exploded perspective view of the nozzle unit.

[0019] Figure 8 It is a sectional view obtained by observing the front from the middle in the front-rear direction of the washing and drying machine.

[0020] Figure 9 It is Figure 8 a partial enlarged view of

[0021] Figure 10 It is a block diagram showing the functional structure of the control unit.

[0022] Figure 11 It is a flowchart showing the process of the clothing treatment program of Embodiment 1.

[0023] Figure 12 It is a flowchart showing the process of the spraying step of Embodiment 1.

[0024] Figure 13 It is a flowchart showing the process of the cleaning step of Embodiment 1.

[0025] Figure 14 It is a flowchart showing the process of the drying step of Embodiment 1.

[0026] Figure 15 It is an explanatory diagram showing the state in which the first switching unit has switched the path to the second communication state when the first tank is removed.

[0027] Figure 16 It is an explanatory diagram showing the spraying step when the liquid stored in the first tank is in a small amount.

[0028] Figure 17 It is a longitudinal sectional view of the washing and drying machine of Embodiment 2 including the liquid spraying device.

[0029] Figure 18 It is an explanatory diagram showing the structure of the liquid spraying device of Embodiment 2.

[0030] Figure 19 It is a flowchart showing the process of the clothing treatment program of Embodiment 2.

[0031] Figure 20 It is a flowchart showing the process of the cleaning step of Embodiment 2.

[0032] Figure 21 It is an explanatory diagram showing the air supply in the cleaning step of Embodiment 2.

[0033] Figure 22 It is an explanatory diagram showing the air supply in the cleaning step of Embodiment 2.

[0034] Figure 23 It is an explanatory diagram showing the structure of the liquid agent spraying device of Modification 1 of Embodiment 2.

[0035] Figure 24 It is an explanatory diagram showing the structure of the liquid agent spraying device of Modification 2 of Embodiment 2.

[0036] Figure 25 It is a flowchart showing the process of the cleaning step of Modification 1 of Embodiment 2.

[0037] Figure 26 It is an operation explanatory diagram of the liquid agent spraying device of Modification 1 of Embodiment 2.

[0038] Figure 27 It is an operation explanatory diagram of the liquid agent spraying device of Modification 1 of Embodiment 2.

[0039] Figure 28 It is an operation explanatory diagram of the liquid agent spraying device of Modification 1 of Embodiment 2.

[0040] Figure 29 It is an explanatory diagram showing the structure of the liquid agent spraying device of Modification 3 of Embodiment 2.

[0041] Figure 30 It is an explanatory diagram explaining the structure of the four-way valve.

[0042] Figure 31 It is a longitudinal sectional view of the main part of the dryer of Embodiment 3.

[0043] Figure 32 It is an explanatory diagram showing the structure of the liquid agent spraying device of Embodiment 3.

[0044] Figure 33 It is an explanatory diagram showing the structure of the liquid agent spraying device of Embodiment 3.

[0045] Figure 34 It is an explanatory diagram showing the structure of the liquid agent spraying device of Embodiment 3.

[0046] Figure 35 It is a cross-sectional view of the washing and drying machine according to the modified example.

[0047] Figure 36 It is a front view of the washing and drying machine according to the modified example. Detailed implementation mode

[0048] (Insights and the like that form the basis of the present disclosure)

[0049] Until the inventors came up with the present disclosure, there was the following technology: a mist generating device that generates mist by applying ultrasonic vibration to water stored in a water storage container, and supplies the mist to a dried laundry. Based on such a situation, the inventors came up with the following idea: a liquid agent is sprayed in the form of mist by a spraying unit onto an object to be processed such as clothing and the space inside the tub, so as to effectively process the object to be processed and the tub. However, when the liquid agent is sprayed by the spraying unit, the inventors found that there are still multiple problems.

[0050] The first problem is that when the liquid agent is sprayed by the spraying unit, it is necessary to suppress the liquid agent from remaining in the path from the tank containing the liquid agent to the spraying. Since the liquid agent remaining in the path solidifies or deteriorates and causes liquid blockage and odor, it is necessary to remove the liquid agent remaining in the path.

[0051] The second problem is to suppress the liquid agent sprayed into the drum, which is a housing tank for housing the object to be processed, from remaining in the drum. Since the liquid agent remaining in the drum deteriorates and causes odor, it is necessary to remove the liquid agent remaining in the drum.

[0052] The inventors found the problems as described above, and to solve this problem, the subject matter of the present disclosure was constituted.

[0053] Hereinafter, the embodiments will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. However, unnecessary detailed descriptions may sometimes be omitted. For example, detailed descriptions of well-known matters may sometimes be omitted, or repeated descriptions of substantially the same structures may be omitted. This is to avoid making the following description too long and to make it easy for those skilled in the art to understand. In addition, the drawings and the following description are provided to enable those skilled in the art to fully understand the present disclosure, and are not intended to limit the subject matter described in the claims by them.

[0054] (Embodiment 1)

[0055] Hereinafter, with reference to Figures 1 to 16 The clothing treatment device according to Embodiment 1 of the present disclosure will be described. In Embodiment 1, as an example of the clothing treatment device, a drum-type washing and drying machine 100 will be described.

[0056] [1-1. Overall Structure]

[0057] [1-1-1. Structure of the Washing and Drying Machine]

[0058] Refer to Figure 1 and Figure 2 to describe the structure of the washing and drying machine 100. Figure 1 Fig. is the front view of the washing and drying machine 100 of Embodiment 1. Figure 2 Fig. is the longitudinal sectional view of the main part of the washing and drying machine 100.

[0059] The washing and drying machine 100 includes a housing 108, a water tank 101 capable of storing water provided in the housing 108, a drum 102 rotatably provided in the water tank 101, a lid 120, and an operation display unit 125. The housing 108 includes a front plate 100b constituting the front surface side of the washing and drying machine 100 and a tank lid 100c provided on the upper surface of the housing 108.

[0060] The drum 102 is provided in the housing 108. The water tank 101 and the drum 102 are arranged to be rotatable about the rotation axis Vo as the central axis. The rotation axis Vo can be arranged to be inclined from the horizontal to the front upper side or can be arranged to extend horizontally. A plurality of water passing holes 102b communicating with the water tank 101 in a manner that allows water to flow through are provided on the peripheral wall of the drum 102.

[0061] The drum 102 is formed in a bottomed cylindrical shape having a drum opening 102a on the front surface side, and the object to be processed is accommodated inside. Examples of the object to be processed accommodated in the drum 102 include clothes, shoes, bags, hats, fabrics, towels, etc. In addition, an example of accommodating clothes as the object to be processed in the drum 102 will be described in the present embodiment below.

[0062] A motor 105 is provided at the bottom of the water tank 101. The motor 105 drives the drum 102 to rotate.

[0063] The lid 120 is attached to the front plate 100b and covers the drum opening 102a in an openable and closable manner. The user opens the lid 120 and puts the object to be processed into the drum 102 through the drum opening 102a. In addition, the washing and drying machine 100 includes a lid locking portion (not shown). The lid locking portion can hold the lid 120 in a closed state. The opening and closing of the lid 120 are detected by an opening and closing detection portion 121. The opening and closing detection portion 121 is, for example, a push button switch. When the lid 120 is closed, a closing signal (ON signal) is sent to the control portion 131, and when the lid 120 is opened, an opening signal (OFF signal) is sent to the control portion 131.

[0064] A trough lid 101c covering a part of the drum opening 102a is provided in the housing 108 (in Figure 2 and the following Figure 8and Figure 9 As shown in the figure. When the washing and drying machine 100 is observed from the front, the tank lid 101c covers the part on the outer peripheral side of the drum opening 102a compared to the lid 120. In addition, the tank lid 101c can be continuously provided with the front plate 100b or can be provided as a different component.

[0065] A water supply valve 161, a water supply path 162, a drain valve 163, and a drain path 164 are provided in the housing 108. The water supply valve 161 is used to take in water from the outside. The water supply path 162 is used to make the water taken in by the water supply valve 161 flow into the water tank 101. The drain valve 163 is used to drain the water in the water tank 101. The drain path 164 is used to drain water to the outside when the drain valve 163 is opened. Thus, the washing and drying machine 100 can perform a washing operation including a washing process, a rinsing process, and a dehydration process.

[0066] A tank lid 101c that covers a part of the opening of the drum 102 is provided on the front surface side of the water tank 101. The tank lid 101c can be provided on the water tank 101 or can be provided on the housing 108. In the present embodiment, the nozzle unit 150 is provided on the tank lid 101c.

[0067] The washing and drying machine 100 has a fan 104 that pressurizes and conveys air, a suction port 106 provided above the water tank 101, and an air outlet 107 provided on the back surface of the water tank 101. When the fan 104 rotates, the air in the water tank 101 is sucked in from the suction port 106, and the air sucked in by the fan 104 flows into the water tank 101 from the air outlet 107.

[0068] In the present embodiment, the air path from sucking air from the suction port 106 by the fan 104 and flowing the air into the water tank 101 from the air outlet 107 is defined as the drying path 110. In addition, since the fan 104 blows the air sucked from the water tank 101 into the water tank 101 via the drying path 110, the fan 104 can also be defined as a blowing unit. The fan 104 is provided in the drying path 110. The air flowing into the water tank 101 from the air outlet 107 flows into the drum 102 through the ventilation holes provided on the back surface of the drum 102 and flows out toward the water tank 101 through the water passing holes 102b provided on the peripheral wall of the drum 102.

[0069] The washing and drying machine 100 includes a heat pump unit 111 in the drying path 110 as a heating unit. The heat pump unit 111 is a device that dehumidifies and heats the air in the drying path 110.

[0070] The washing and drying machine 100 is provided with a control unit 131. In addition to rotating the drum 102 via the motor 105, the control unit 131 controls the operations of the fan 104, the heat pump unit 111, the water supply valve 161, the drain valve 163, the air pump 143, the lid locking unit, and the like. The control unit 131 is disposed in the lower part within the housing 108. The structure of the control unit 131 will be described later.

[0071] The operation display unit 125 is disposed at the upper part of the front surface of the housing 108. The operation display unit 125 receives operation instructions from the user and can further display the operation status of the washing and drying machine 100 and the like. The operation display unit 125 is, for example, a touch panel, a liquid crystal panel, or operation buttons.

[0072] [1-1-2. Structure of the liquid spraying device]

[0073] Next, Figure 3 and Figure 4 will be used to explain the liquid agent spraying device 140. Figure 3 is a schematic diagram showing the main structure of the liquid agent spraying device 140. Figure 4 is a longitudinal sectional view of the washing and drying machine 100 including the liquid agent spraying device 140. As Figure 4 shown, a liquid agent spraying device 140 for supplying the mist floating in the drum 102 is provided within the housing 108.

[0074] The liquid agent spraying device 140 is disposed outside the drying path 110. The liquid agent spraying device 140 includes a first tank 141, a first switching unit 142, an air pump 143, a first path 144, an air supply path 147, and a nozzle unit 150 including a spray nozzle 154 (described later).

[0075] The first tank 141 is provided so as to be able to store the liquid agent. In this specification, the liquid agent is a liquid different from water and is used to impart additional value to clothing and the like. The liquid agent accommodated in the first tank 141 is, for example, a wrinkle remover, a bactericide, a deodorant, an aromatic agent, an insect repellent, a pre-cleaning agent, a waterproof agent, or a stain repellent. The first tank 141 is detachably accommodated in a tank accommodating portion 126 provided at the upper inner side of the housing 108.

[0076] The user can open the tank lid 100c (refer to Figure 1 ), take out the first tank 141 from within the tank accommodating portion 126 of the housing 108, and change, refill, and supplement the liquid accommodated in the first tank 141. In addition, the position where the tank lid 100c is provided may be any position where the user can take out the first tank 141, and thus is not limited to the upper surface of the rear part of the housing 108 and may be determined according to the arrangement position of the first tank 141.

[0077] In the can housing portion 126, a loading and unloading detection unit 127 for detecting whether the first can 141 is installed is provided. The loading and unloading detection unit 127 is, for example, a push button. When the first can 141 is installed in the can housing portion 126, the push button is pressed, and a detection signal (ON signal) is sent from the push button (loading and unloading detection unit 127) to the control unit 131. When the first can 141 is removed from the can housing portion 126, the push button returns, and a signal with a value of 0 (OFF signal) is sent from the push button (loading and unloading detection unit 127) to the control unit 131. Thus, the control unit 131 can determine whether the first can 141 is installed in the can housing portion 126. In addition, as the loading and unloading detection unit 127, a magnetic sensor can also be used. By arranging a magnet on the first can 141 and a Hall IC in the can housing portion 126, it is possible to detect whether the first can 141 is installed in the can housing portion 126.

[0078] The first switching unit 142 is provided at a position upstream of the spray nozzle 154. The first switching unit 142 switches to supply the liquid agent in the first can 141 or supply air to the spray nozzle 154.

[0079] The air pump 143 supplies compressed air to the spray nozzle 154.

[0080] The first path 144 is a path for supplying the liquid agent and air from the first switching unit 142 to the spray nozzle 154. In other words, the first path 144 is a path through which the liquid flowing from the first switching unit 142 to the spray nozzle 154 passes.

[0081] The second path 145 is a path for supplying the liquid agent from the first can 141 to the first switching unit 142. In other words, the second path 145 is a path through which the liquid agent flowing from the first can 141 to the first switching unit 142 passes.

[0082] One end of the third path 146 is connected to the first switching unit 142, and the other end is an open end and open to the atmosphere. In other words, the third path 146 is a path through which the gas flowing into the first switching unit 142 passes.

[0083] The air supply path 147 is connected to the air pump 143, and the air flowing into the spray nozzle 154 passes through the air supply path 147.

[0084] In addition, in the present embodiment, the first path 144, the second path 145, the third path 146, and the air supply path 147 are formed of rubber hoses, but they can also be formed of polyvinyl chloride or the like. The materials and forms of the first path 144, the second path 145, the third path 146, and the air supply path 147 are not limited to this.

[0085] Next, with reference to Figure 5 and Figure 6to illustrate the structure of the first switching unit 142. Figure 5 This is an explanatory diagram showing the state in which the first switching unit 142 has switched the path to the first connected state. Figure 6 This is an explanatory diagram showing the state in which the first switching unit 142 has switched the path to the second connected state.

[0086] The first switching unit 142 can switch to either the connection between the first path 144 and the second path 145 or the connection between the first path 144 and the third path 146 through switching control from the control unit 131. The first switching unit 142 is, for example, a three-way valve.

[0087] Figure 5 Shows the first connected state in which the first switching unit 142 connects the first path 144 and the third path 146. In this state, when the air pump 143 operates, air is supplied from the open end of the third path 146 through the third path 146, the first switching unit 142, and the first path 144 to the spray nozzle 154, and air is ejected from the spray nozzle 154.

[0088] Figure 6 Shows the second connected state in which the first switching unit 142 connects the first path 144 and the second path 145. In this state, when the air pump 143 operates, the liquid agent is supplied from the first tank 141 through the second path 145, the first switching unit 142, and the first path 144 to the spray nozzle 154, and the liquid agent is sprayed from the spray nozzle 154.

[0089] [1-1-3. Structure of the nozzle unit]

[0090] Refer to Figures 7 to 9 to illustrate the structure of the nozzle unit 150. Figure 7 This is an exploded perspective view of the nozzle unit 150. Figure 8 This is a cross-sectional view obtained by observing the front from the middle in the front-rear direction of the washing and drying machine 100. Figure 9 This is Figure 8 a partial enlarged view of... The nozzle unit 150 includes a base portion 151, a nozzle portion 152, and a nozzle cover 155.

[0091] The base portion 151 is a member for mounting the nozzle unit 150 to the tank lid 101c, and is detachably provided on the tank lid 101c. The base portion 151 is fixed to the tank lid 101c by, for example, screw fastening. In the present embodiment, the base portion 151 is screwed and fastened to the inner back surface of the tank lid 101c from the inside of the tank lid 101c.

[0092] The nozzle part 152 includes a nozzle mounting part 153 and a spray nozzle 154. In a state where the spray nozzle 154 is mounted on the nozzle mounting part 153, the nozzle part 152 is fixed to the mounting surface 151a of the base part 151 by screw fastening. In addition, the nozzle mounting part 153 is detachably provided on the mounting surface 151a of the base part 151. That is to say, the nozzle part 152 is detachably provided on the base part 151.

[0093] The nozzle mounting part 153 is connected between the air supply path 147 and the air-side connection part 154a (described later) of the spray nozzle 154. In addition, an O-ring for suppressing air leakage may be provided at the connection part between the air supply path 147 and the nozzle mounting part 153.

[0094] The spray nozzle 154 is a two-fluid nozzle that sprays liquid using compressed air. The spray nozzle 154 includes an air-side connection part 154a, a liquid-side connection part 154b, and a spray port 154c. The air-side connection part 154a is connected to the nozzle mounting part 153, and the air that has passed through the air supply path 147 flows into the spray nozzle 154. The liquid-side connection part 154b is connected to the first path 144, and the liquid or gas that has passed through the first path 144 flows into the spray nozzle 154. The spray port 154c uses the compressed air flowing in from the air-side connection part 154a to spray the liquid or gas that has flowed in from the liquid-side connection part 154b and is stored in the first tank 141.

[0095] The air-side connection part 154a and the spray port 154c are provided on substantially the same straight line, and the air-side connection part 154a is provided substantially orthogonally to the liquid-side connection part 154b. In addition, an O-ring for suppressing air leakage may be provided at the connection part between the air-side connection part 154a and the nozzle mounting part 153. In addition, an O-ring for suppressing liquid leakage may be provided at the connection part between the liquid-side connection part 154b and the first path 144.

[0096] In a state where the spray nozzle 154 is mounted on the nozzle mounting part 153, the nozzle part 152 is sandwiched between the base part 151 and the nozzle cover 155, and is screwed between the nozzle cover 155 through the screw hole provided on the mounting surface 151a and the screw hole provided on the nozzle mounting part 153, and thus is fixed to the base part 151. In other words, the nozzle cover 155 fixes the nozzle part 152 to the base part 151.

[0097] The base portion 151 having the setting surface 151a is detachably provided on the tank lid 101c. Thus, by replacing the base portion 151 with a different angle of the setting surface 151a installed on the tank lid 101c as the base portion 151, the setting angle of the nozzle portion 152 can be changed. Therefore, the angle of the spray port 154c can be changed, and thus the angle of the mist ejected from the spray nozzle 154 can be changed according to the type of liquid stored in the first tank 141 and the usage purpose of the liquid spraying device 140.

[0098] The nozzle mounting portion 153 is connected to the air supply path 147 in a substantially vertical direction and is connected to the air-side connection portion 154a of the spray nozzle 154 in a substantially horizontal direction. That is, the nozzle mounting portion 153 has a bending structure 153a that bends the path inside the nozzle mounting portion 153 at a substantially right angle. In other words, the bending structure 153a bends the path through which the air flowing into the spray nozzle 154 passes. Thereby, the space required for the nozzle portion 152, which is the front-rear direction in this embodiment, can be reduced.

[0099] Moreover, by the bending structure 153a, the first path 144 and the air supply path 147 are arranged to extend in substantially the same direction, which is to extend in a substantially vertical direction from the nozzle portion 152 in this embodiment. Thereby, the space required for the nozzle portion 152, which is the front-rear direction in this embodiment, can be suppressed, and thus space saving can be achieved when the nozzle portion 152 is provided. In addition, since the first path 144 and the air supply path 147 can be connected to the liquid-side connection portion 154b of the spray nozzle 154 and the nozzle mounting portion 153 from the same direction, the nozzle portion 152, the first path 144, and the air supply path 147 can be easily replaced.

[0100] As Figure 8 and Figure 9 shown, the spray nozzle 154 is provided on the upper part of the tank lid 101c (when viewed from the front). That is, the spray nozzle 154 is provided on the upper front side of the drum 102. The spray nozzle 154 ejects mist toward the diagonal direction of the drum 102, that is, the lower right part of the inner rear of the drum 102 (when viewed from the front). The mist ejected from the spray nozzle 154 falls downward due to gravity. Therefore, by providing the spray nozzle 154 on the upper front of the drum 102, it is possible to prevent the mist from locally adhering to the clothes stored in the drum 102 and to make the mist adhere over a wide range. In addition, when the average particle size of the mist ejected from the spray nozzle 154 is small, the mist does not fall immediately after spraying and can float in the drum 102. By rotating the clothes while the mist floats in the drum 102, the mist can be more evenly adhered to the clothes.

[0101] [1-1-4. Structure of the control unit]

[0102] Refer to Figure 10 to describe the structure of the control unit 131. Figure 10 is a block diagram showing the functional structure of the control unit 131.

[0103] The control unit 131 can be implemented by a circuit including semiconductor elements and the like. The control unit 131 can be constituted by, for example, a microcomputer, a CPU (Central Processing Unit), an MPU (MicroProcessing Unit), a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), a DSP (Digital Signal Processor), an FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array), or an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit). The functions of the control unit 131 can be constituted only by hardware or can be implemented by combining hardware and software. The control unit 131 has a storage unit such as a hard disk drive (HDD) and a solid state drive (SSD), and realizes a prescribed function by reading data and programs stored in the storage unit and performing various arithmetic processes.

[0104] The control unit 131 is connected to the fan 104, the motor 105, the heat pump unit 111, the buzzer 133, the first switching unit 142, and the air pump 143 in a communicable manner to control the respective operations. In addition, the control unit 131 is connected to the opening / closing detection unit 121, the operation display unit 125, and the attachment / detachment detection unit 127 in a communicable manner to receive signals from each unit.

[0105] The control unit 131 receives an instruction input by the user through the operation display unit 125. Based on the instruction such as the operation program received by the control unit 131, the operations of the above-described respective devices are controlled. In addition, the control unit 131 notifies the user of the operation status of the washing and drying machine 100 through the operation display unit 125 and the buzzer 133.

[0106] In addition, when the washing and drying machine 100 is provided with a communication unit capable of communicating with an external terminal, it can be set such that the control unit 131 can receive an instruction input by the user through the external terminal via the communication unit. Further, it can be set such that the control unit 131 can notify the user of the operation status of the washing and drying machine 100 in the external terminal through the communication unit.

[0107] [1-2. Operations, etc.]

[0108] Next, the operation and function of the washing and drying machine 100 configured as described above will be described.

[0109] [1-2-1. Operations in the laundry treatment program]

[0110] The control unit 131 can execute a laundry treatment program that controls the first switching unit 142 and the air pump 143 to operate the liquid agent spraying device 140. The laundry treatment program is a program that operates the liquid agent spraying device 140 with laundry accommodated in the drum 102. Next, with reference to Figure 11 The control and operation in the laundry treatment program will be described. Figure 11 is a flowchart showing the flow of the laundry treatment program.

[0111] The user puts laundry as an object to be processed into the drum 102 and selects a laundry treatment program using the operation display unit 125. When the operation display unit 125 receives the selection of the laundry treatment program by the user, it sends a signal indicating that the laundry treatment program has been instructed to the control unit 131, and the control unit 131 receives the signal indicating that the laundry treatment program has been instructed (S1). Next, the control unit 131 operates the lid locking unit to keep the lid 120 closed (S2).

[0112] The laundry treatment program includes a spraying step (S3) in which the liquid agent is sprayed from the spray nozzle 154 of the liquid agent spraying device 140, a cleaning step (S4) in which air is ejected from the spray nozzle 154 of the liquid agent spraying device 140, and a drying step (S5) in which the fan 104 operates.

[0113] In the laundry treatment program, there are multiple selection ranges according to the type and number of laundry items. After locking the lid 120, the control unit 131 executes the spraying step (S3) corresponding to the received laundry treatment program.

[0114] With reference to Figure 12 the operation in the spraying step (S3) of the laundry treatment program will be described. Figure 12 is a flowchart showing the flow of the spraying step (S3). When starting the spraying step (S3), the control unit 131 operates the first switching unit 142 so that the first path 144 communicates with the second path 145, and switches from the first communication state to the second communication state (S11). In this way, before starting the spraying step (S3), the path in the liquid agent spraying device 140 is in the first communication state.

[0115] Next, in step S12, the control unit 131 drives (turns on) the air pump 143 to spray the liquid agent in the first tank 141 toward the laundry in the drum 102. After the control unit 131 drives the air pump 143 for a predetermined time, it stops (turns off) the air pump 143. Thus, the spraying step (S3) ends.

[0116] When the spraying step (S3) ends, the control unit 131 executes the cleaning step (S4). Refer to Figure 13 to describe the operation in the cleaning step (S4) of the laundry treatment program. Figure 13 is a flowchart showing the process of the cleaning step (S4).

[0117] When starting the cleaning step (S4), the control unit 131 operates the first switching unit 142 in such a way that the first path 144 communicates with the third path 146, and switches from the second communication state to the first communication state (S21).

[0118] In this way, after the spraying step (S3) ends, the control unit 131 cuts off the communication between the second path 145 and the first path 144. Thus, compared with the case where the second path 145 and the first path 144 are kept in communication, drying of the liquid agent in the first tank 141 can be suppressed.

[0119] In addition, during the period other than when the spraying step (S3) is being executed, the control unit 131 controls the first switching unit 142 so that the first path 144 communicates with the third path 146. Therefore, even when the spray nozzle 154 is located below the first tank 141, leakage of the liquid agent from the spray nozzle 154 can be reduced by cutting off the connection with the second path 145.

[0120] Next, in step S22, the control unit 131 drives (turns on) the air pump 143 to spray air from the open end of the third path 146 into the drum 102. Thereby, the liquid agent remaining in the first switching unit 142, the first path 144, and the spray nozzle 154 can be removed. In addition, the remaining liquid agent can also be sprayed onto the laundry, thereby improving the utilization efficiency of the liquid agent.

[0121] At this time, the control unit 131 makes the output of the air pump 143 in the cleaning step (S4) larger than the output of the air pump 143 in the spraying step (S3). In other words, the air supply amount per unit time of the air pump 143 in the cleaning step (S4) is made larger than the air supply amount per unit time of the air pump 143 in the spraying step (S3). Further in other words, the control unit 131 makes the rotational speed of the motor of the air pump 143 in the cleaning step (S4) larger than the rotational speed of the motor of the air pump 143 in the spraying step (S3). That is, the control unit 131 makes the driving amount of the motor of the air pump 143 in the cleaning step (S4) larger than the driving amount of the motor of the air pump 143 in the spraying step (S3). Since the air flow rate in the spraying step (S3) increases, the adhesion caused by the liquid agent generated inside the spray nozzle 154 can be effectively removed. Adhesion that is stronger and cannot be removed with the air supply amount of the normal air pump 143 can also be removed. In addition, in the present embodiment, the rotational speed of the motor of the air pump 143 can be renamed as the number of revolutions of the motor of the air pump 143 per unit time.

[0122] After the control unit 131 drives the air pump 143 for a predetermined time, it stops (turns OFF) the air pump 143. Thereby, the cleaning step (S4) ends.

[0123] When the cleaning step (S4) ends, the control unit 131 executes the drying step (S5). Figure 14 is a flowchart showing the process of the drying step. In the drying step (S5), the control unit 131 controls the motor 105 to start rotating the drum 102 (S31). While the control unit 131 rotates the drum 102, it operates the fan 104 to start blowing air toward the laundry inside the drum 102 (S32). Thereby, the laundry sprayed with the liquid agent in the spraying step (S3) and the cleaning step (S4) can be dried, and the liquid agent remaining in the drum 102, that is, the liquid agent floating in the air inside the drum 102 and the liquid agent adhering to the inner wall of the drum 102 can be dried.

[0124] When the control unit 131 operates the fan 104 for the entire predetermined time, it stops the operation of the fan 104 to stop blowing air toward the laundry (S33). In addition, the control unit 131 stops the operation of the motor 105 to stop the rotation of the drum 102 (S34), thereby ending the drying step S5. After the drying step (S5) ends, the control unit 131 stops the operation of the lid locking unit to unlock the lid 120 (S6). Thereby, the laundry treatment program ends.

[0125] In addition, in the above, the process of driving (turning ON) the air pump 143 in the second connection state where the first path 144 and the second path 145 are connected is called the spraying step (S3). However, the spraying step can also be implemented at a time other than during the laundry treatment program. For example, the spraying step (S3) can also be implemented when the first tank 141 is removed from the tank housing portion 126. Here, the spraying step performed when the first tank 141 is removed from the tank housing portion 126 is called the replacement step. In addition, in the replacement step, the air pump 143 is also driven (turned ON) in the second connection state, but the driving (turning ON) time of the air pump 143 in the replacement step and the driving (turning ON) time of the air pump 143 in step S3 can be the same or different. Refer to Figure 15 to explain the path cleaning in the replacement step when the first tank 141 is removed from the tank housing portion 126. Figure 15 is an explanatory diagram showing the state in which the first switching unit switches the path to the second connection state when the first tank is removed.

[0126] When the user removes the first tank 141 from the tank housing portion 126 to replace the liquid agent, the loading and unloading detection unit 127 sends an OFF signal to the control unit 131. Therefore, the control unit 131 recognizes that the first tank 141 has been removed from the tank housing portion 126. Then, the control unit 131 implements the replacement step. Thus, as Figure 15 shown, the control unit 131 operates the first switching unit 142 so that the first path 144 and the second path 145 are connected, and switches from the first connection state to the second connection state (S11). Since the first tank 141 has been removed, one end of the second path 145 is an open end. After that, in the liquid agent spraying in step S12, the control unit 131 drives (turns ON) the air pump 143. However, since the first tank 141 has been removed, air flows in from the open end of the second path 145, and the air passes through the second path 145, the first switching unit 142, the first path 144, and the spray nozzle 154 and is sprayed toward the inside of the drum 102. Thus, the liquid agent remaining in the second path 145, the first switching unit 142, the first path 144, and the spray nozzle 154 can be removed. When the control unit 131 sprays for a specified time, it stops (turns OFF) the air pump 143.

[0127] In this way, the washing and drying machine 100 includes a tank housing portion 126 that houses the first tank 141, and the control unit 131 performs the replacement step (spraying step) when the first tank 141 is removed from the tank housing portion 126. Since the liquid agent remaining in the path (second path 145) between the tank housing portion 126 and the first switching unit 142 can be removed, it is possible to suppress the generation of compounds due to liquid agent mixing when the type of the liquid agent housed in the first tank 141 is changed. In addition, it is possible to prevent the spraying of the liquid agent before replacement remaining in the second path 145 after the user has changed the type of the liquid agent.

[0128] In addition, the washing and drying machine 100 is provided with a loading and unloading detection unit 127 that detects the loading and unloading of the first tank 141 with respect to the tank housing unit 126. When the control unit 131 detects that the first tank 141 has been removed from the tank housing unit 126 through the loading and unloading detection unit 127, it executes a replacement step (spray step). Thus, when the first tank 141 is removed, it is possible to change the type of the liquid agent in the first tank. Therefore, by executing the replacement step (spray step) when the loading and unloading detection unit 127 detects the removal of the first tank 141, it is possible to suppress the remaining liquid agent of the type before the change in the second path 145.

[0129] In addition, the control unit 131 may also execute the replacement step (spray step) when it receives an instruction to replace the liquid agent in the first tank 141 from the user via the operation display unit 125. Thus, when the type of the liquid agent in the first tank 141 is not changed, there is no need to clean the second path, so the replacement step (spray step) is not executed. When the liquid agent in the first tank 141 is changed, the replacement step (spray step) is executed, and it is possible to suppress the remaining liquid agent of the type before the change in the second path 145.

[0130] In addition, after executing the replacement step (spray step), the control unit 131 may use the operation display unit 125 or the buzzer 133 to notify that the liquid agent in the first tank 141 can be replaced. Since the user can recognize the timing of replacing the first tank 141, it is possible to prevent the mixing of the liquid agents in the path.

[0131] In addition, instead of executing the spray step (S3) when the first tank 141 is removed from the tank housing unit 126, all the liquid agent stored in the first tank 141 may be sprayed out when the amount of the liquid agent stored in the first tank 141 is less than the specified amount.

[0132] Refer to Figure 16 . Figure 16 It is an explanatory diagram showing the spray step (S3) when the amount of the liquid agent stored in the first tank 141 is small.

[0133] A remaining amount detection unit 128 for detecting the remaining amount of the liquid agent in the first tank 141 is provided in the first tank 141. When the remaining amount of the liquid agent in the first tank 141 is less than the specified amount, the remaining amount detection unit 128 sends a detection signal (ON signal) to the control unit 131. The specified amount is, for example, the amount used in one spray treatment. The remaining amount detection unit 128 is, for example, an optical sensor and can detect the remaining amount by detecting the height of the liquid level in the first tank 141. In addition to being an optical sensor, the remaining amount detection unit 128 may also be a sensor using a float.

[0134] In this way, the washing and drying machine 100 is provided with a remaining amount detection unit 128 that can detect the remaining amount of the liquid agent in the first tank 141. The control unit 131 can also execute the liquid agent spraying (S12) in the spraying step (S3) for a longer time than in the normal spraying step (S3) when the remaining amount of the liquid agent is less than the amount used in one treatment. Thereby, the liquid agent remaining in the first tank 141 and from the first tank 141 to the first switching unit 142 can be removed, so that the mixing of liquid agents during liquid agent replacement can be prevented.

[0135] [Effect]

[0136] According to the washing and drying machine 100 according to the present embodiment, the following effects can be achieved.

[0137] As described above, the washing and drying machine 100 of the present embodiment includes: a drum 102 for accommodating an object to be processed; a liquid agent spraying device 140 for spraying a liquid agent into the drum 102; and a control unit 131 for controlling the operation of the liquid agent spraying device 140. The liquid agent spraying device 140 includes: a spray nozzle 154; a first tank 141 for storing a liquid agent; a first switching unit 142 provided at a position upstream of the spray nozzle 154; a first path 144 connecting the first switching unit 142 and the spray nozzle 154; a second path 145 for introducing the liquid agent in the first tank 141 into the first switching unit 142; and a third path 146 for introducing air or a liquid into the first switching unit 142. The first switching unit 142 can switch the path communicating with the first path 144 between the second path 145 and the third path 146. After executing the spraying step (S3) in which the second path 145 is communicated with the first path 144 to operate the liquid agent spraying device 140, the control unit 131 executes a cleaning step (S4) in which the third path 146 is communicated with the first path 144 to operate the liquid agent spraying device 140.

[0138] Thereby, the residue of the liquid agent existing in the path can be suppressed. Rust and deterioration caused by the influence of the liquid agent can be suppressed for the path and the components constituting the spray nozzle 154. The generation of precipitates due to the drying of the liquid agent can also be suppressed, so that the spray nozzle 154 can be prevented from being blocked by the precipitates. In addition, the odor generated due to the stagnation of the remaining liquid agent can be reduced.

[0139] In addition, the spray nozzle 154 is a two-fluid nozzle, and the liquid agent spraying device 140 has an air pump 143 for supplying air to the spray nozzle 154. The third path 146 is a path for introducing air into the first switching unit 142. The control unit 131 operates the liquid agent spraying device 140 in the cleaning step (S4) to introduce air into the first path 144.

[0140] In the cleaning step (S4), only air is discharged from the spray nozzle 154, so that even when there is an object to be processed in the drum 102, the path can be cleaned.

[0141] (Embodiment 2)

[0142] Next, with reference to Figures 17 to 20 FIGS. and will be described the laundry dryer 100A according to Embodiment 2 of the present disclosure. The liquid spraying device 140 in Embodiment 1 performs an air wash on the path in the cleaning step (S4). In contrast, the liquid spraying device 140A of the laundry dryer 100A in Embodiment 2 performs a water wash on the path and the drum 102 in the cleaning step (S4). Regarding the structure other than this point and the points to be described below, the laundry dryer 100 in Embodiment 1 is the same as the laundry dryer 100A in Embodiment 2, so the detailed description is omitted.

[0143] With reference to Figure 17 and Figure 18 . Figure 17 FIG. is a longitudinal sectional view of the laundry dryer 100A according to Embodiment 2 including the liquid spraying device 140A. Figure 18 FIG. is an explanatory view showing the structure of the liquid spraying device 140A of the laundry dryer 100A according to Embodiment 2.

[0144] As Figure 17 shown, the liquid spraying device 140A includes a second tank 148 for storing a liquid. The second tank 148 is housed in the tank housing portion 126 adjacent to the first tank 141. Similarly to the first tank 141, the loading and unloading of the second tank 148 is detected by a loading and unloading detection portion 127 for the second tank 148. The liquid stored in the second tank 148 is, for example, water or a cleaning agent. In the present embodiment, a mode in which water is stored in the second tank 148 will be described. In addition, the cleaning agent stored in the second tank 148 is, for example, an organic solvent or alcohol.

[0145] In Embodiment 2, the other end of the third path 146A is connected to the second tank 148. Thus, the third path 146A introduces water from the second tank 148 into the first switching portion 142.

[0146] Next, with reference to Figure 19 the control and operation in the laundry treatment program according to Embodiment 2 will be described. Figure 19 FIG. is a flowchart showing the flow of the laundry treatment program according to Embodiment 2.

[0147] Regarding the clothing treatment program of Embodiment 2, from the time when the user puts in the clothes until the control unit 131 accepts the selection of the clothing treatment program by the user via the operation display unit 125 (S1) and the spraying step (S3) in which the liquid agent is sprayed from the spray nozzle 154 of the liquid agent spraying device 140, it is the same as Embodiment 1. Since water is sprayed into the drum 102 in the cleaning step S44, it is necessary to take out the clothes from the drum 102 before the cleaning step S44 to prevent the sprayed water from wetting the clothes.

[0148] Therefore, in the clothing treatment program of Embodiment 2, after the spraying step S3 ends, the control unit 131 stops the operation of the lid locking unit to unlock the lid 120 (S41), and uses the operation display unit 125 or the buzzer 133 to notify the user that the spraying step S3 has ended. The user takes out the clothes from the drum 102 and closes the lid 120. The washing and drying machine 100A is equipped with a lid opening and closing detection unit that detects the opening and closing of the lid 120. When the lid opening and closing detection unit detects that the lid 120 has been closed, it sends a signal indicating that the lid 120 has been closed to the control unit 131. In addition, the user can also input that the lid 120 has been closed on the operation display unit 125 and send a signal indicating that the lid 120 has been closed to the control unit 131 from the operation display unit 125.

[0149] When the control unit 131 receives a signal indicating that the lid 120 has been closed, it operates the lid locking unit to keep the lid 120 in a closed state (S43), thereby executing the cleaning step S44. Refer to Figure 20 to describe the operation in the cleaning step (S44) of the clothing treatment program of Embodiment 2. Figure 20 is a flowchart showing the process of the cleaning step (S44) of Embodiment 2.

[0150] When starting the cleaning step (S44), the control unit 131 operates the first switching unit 142 in such a way that the first path 144 is connected to the third path 146, and switches from the second connected state to the first connected state (S21).

[0151] Next, in the water spraying in step S51, the control unit 131 drives (turns on) the air pump 143 to spray the water in the second tank 148 into the drum 102. Thereby, the liquid agent remaining in the first switching unit 142, the first path 144, the spray nozzle 154, and the drum 102 can be removed.

[0152] In addition, during the period when the control unit 131 is spraying water in the water spraying (S51) of the cleaning step (S44), it drives and controls the motor 105 to rotate the drum 102. The rotation speed of the drum is, for example, 54 rpm. Thereby, the inside of the drum 102 can be cleaned over a wide range.

[0153] When the control unit 131 performs water spraying for a specified time, it stops (turns OFF) the air pump 143. Thereby, the cleaning step (S44) ends.

[0154] When the cleaning step (S4) ends, the control unit 131 executes Figure 14 the drying step (S5) shown in the same manner as in the first embodiment. In the drying step (S5), the control unit 131 controls the motor 105 to start rotating the drum 102 (S31). While rotating the drum 102, the control unit 131 operates the fan 104 to start blowing air into the drum 102 (S32). At this time, the control unit 131 drives and controls the motor 105 at a rotational speed higher than the rotational speed of the drum 102 in the cleaning step (S44), for example, 100 rpm. Thereby, the water adhering to the inner wall of the drum 102 and the water remaining in the drum 102 can be discharged to the outside of the drum 102. The drying of the water in the drum 102 can be accelerated, and the drum 102 can be quickly dried. After the drying step (S5) ends, the control unit 131 stops the operation of the lid locking unit to unlock the lid 120 (S6). In addition, in the present embodiment, the rotational speed of the motor of the air pump 143 can be referred to as the number of revolutions of the motor of the air pump 143 per unit time.

[0155] In this way, the third path 146A is a path for introducing water or a cleaning agent as a liquid into the first switching unit 142. The control unit 131 operates the liquid spraying device 140 in the cleaning step (S44) to introduce the liquid into the first path 144. Thereby, the first switching unit 142, the first path 144, and the spray nozzle 154 can be cleaned with the liquid, so that the cleaning effect can be further improved.

[0156] In addition, the washing and drying machine 100A further includes a second tank 148 for storing a liquid, and water or a cleaning agent is stored in the second tank 148. Thereby, even when the drying machine or the like does not have a function of supplying water from outside the machine body, the path can be cleaned using the liquid stored in the second tank 148. In addition, as the liquid, a dedicated cleaning agent other than water can also be used.

[0157] In addition, the control unit 131 operates the liquid spraying device 140 in the cleaning step (S44) to spray the water stored in the second tank 148.

[0158] [Effect]

[0159] According to the washing and drying machine 100A according to the present embodiment, the following effects can be achieved.

[0160] As described above, the washing and drying machine 100A of the present embodiment includes: a drum 102 for accommodating an object to be processed; a liquid agent spraying device 140A including a first tank 141 for storing a liquid agent, which sprays the liquid agent into the drum 102; and a control unit 131 (refer to Figure 1 ), which controls the operation of the liquid agent spraying device 140A. The control unit 131 executes a spraying step (S3) for operating the liquid agent spraying device 140A and a cleaning step (S44) for supplying liquid into the drum 102 after executing the spraying step (S3).

[0161] Thereby, the liquid agent remaining in the drum 102 can be cleaned. Thus, rust and deterioration due to the influence of the liquid agent can be suppressed for the component materials of the drum 102. In addition, the generation of odors due to the stagnation of the liquid agent remaining in the drum 102 can be suppressed. In addition, the generation of compounds due to the chemical reaction between liquid agents when multiple liquid agents are sprayed can be suppressed.

[0162] In addition, the liquid agent spraying device 140A can further spray water, and the control unit 131 operates the liquid agent spraying device 140 to spray water in the cleaning step (S44). Since the liquid agent spraying device 140A can disperse the cleaning water in a mist form, a large range of the drum 102 can be cleaned evenly.

[0163] In addition, the washing and drying machine 100A further includes a motor 105 for rotating the drum 102, and the control unit 131 drives and controls the motor 105 to rotate the drum 102 during the period of spraying water in the cleaning step (S44). Thereby, the liquid agent and water can be sprayed onto the same range inside the drum 102, so that the part contaminated by the liquid agent can be cleaned intensively.

[0164] After executing the cleaning step (S44), the control unit 131 rotates the drum 102, and the rotation speed of the drum 102 after executing the cleaning step is greater than the rotation speed of the drum 102 in the cleaning step (S44). Thereby, the water remaining in the drum 102 can be discharged outside the drum 102. The time required for drying inside the drum 102 can be shortened, so that the next spraying process can be performed quickly.

[0165] In addition, the washing and drying machine 100A includes a tank accommodating portion 126 for holding the first tank 141, and the second tank 148 can be installed in the tank accommodating portion 126. Since the second path 145 starting from the first tank 141 and the third path 146A starting from the second tank 148 can be switched for cleaning while being accommodated in the same tank accommodating portion 126, the space around the first tank 141 and the second tank 148 can be saved.

[0166] In addition, the liquid agent spraying device 140A includes: a spray nozzle 154; a first switching unit 142 provided at a position upstream of the spray nozzle 154; a first path 144 connecting the first switching unit 142 and the spray nozzle 154; a second path 145 connecting the first tank 141 and the first switching unit 142; and a third path 146A connecting the second tank 148 and the first switching unit 142. The control unit 131 connects the second path 145 and the first path 144 during the spraying step (S3), and connects the third path 146A and the first path 144 during the cleaning step (S44).

[0167] Thus, in addition to being able to clean the drum 102, it is also possible to clean the path through which the liquid agent passes. Therefore, it is possible to suppress the deterioration of components caused by the influence of the liquid agent in the path. In addition, it is possible to prevent nozzle clogging due to the formation of precipitates in the path when the liquid agent dries.

[0168] In addition, the washing and drying machine 100A further includes a fan 104 that blows air into the drum 102. The control unit 131 may also perform a blowing step of operating the fan 104 during the execution of the cleaning step (S44), particularly during the execution of the water spraying step (S51). Figure 21 and Figure 22 is an explanatory diagram showing the blowing during the cleaning step of Embodiment 2. As Figure 21 shown, since a small amount of mist is contained in the wind generated by the fan 104, the small amount of mist passes through the drying path 110, and thus the drying path 110 can be cleaned.

[0169] In addition, the control unit 131 can control the rotation speed of the fan 104 that pressurizes and conveys air, and change the rotation speed of the fan 104 during the blowing step performed together with the water spraying step (S51). As Figure 22 shown, since the direction of the mist changes according to the strength of the wind, a larger range inside the drum 102 can be cleaned. It is also possible to clean places that cannot be reached by normal spraying, such as the window glass of the lid 120.

[0170] In addition, the spray nozzle 154 is provided at a position above the rotation axis Vo of the drum 102. By spraying from a high position of the drum 102, the entire drum 102 can be sprayed evenly, and cleaning can be performed in a larger range.

[0171] In addition, the drum 102 is open toward the front, and the spray nozzle 154 is provided in front of the drum 102 and sprays mist toward the lower inner part of the drum 102. By spraying mist from the opening of the drum 102, a large amount of mist can be effectively sent into the drum 102. And by spraying from the upper part to the lower part direction, the mist can be evenly spread over the entire drum 102.

[0172] In addition, the washing and drying machine 100A further includes a lid 120 for opening and closing the drum opening 102a of the drum 102 and an opening / closing detection unit 121 for detecting the opening and closing of the lid 120. When the control unit 131 detects that the lid 120 is opened by the opening / closing detection unit 121 after executing the spraying step (S3) and then detects that the lid 120 is closed, the cleaning step (S44) is started. By detecting the opening and closing of the lid 120 by the opening / closing detection unit 121, the drum cleaning can be automatically performed without the user's effort.

[0173] In addition, when the control unit 131 receives an instruction to start cleaning from the operation display unit 125, the cleaning step (S44) is executed. The user can select whether to perform the drum cleaning. Thereby, it is possible to prevent a malfunction of executing the cleaning step (S44) in a state where clothes remain in the drum 102.

[0174] After executing the cleaning step (S44), the control unit 131 executes the drying step S5 which is a blowing step of operating the fan 104. By performing the blowing operation after the cleaning step (S44), the liquid agent or water attached to the inside of the drum 102 can be dried, and spraying of other liquid agents and other clothes can be started immediately after stopping.

[0175] Next, with reference to Figure 23 a modification 1 of the washing and drying machine 100A according to Embodiment 2 will be described. Figure 23 It is an explanatory diagram showing the structure of the liquid agent spraying device 140B provided in the modification 1 of the washing and drying machine 100A according to Embodiment 2. The liquid agent spraying device 140A of the washing and drying machine 100A according to Embodiment 2 has a structure with one switching unit, but the liquid agent spraying device 140B in the modification 1 of the washing and drying machine 100A according to Embodiment 2 has a structure with two switching units. Therefore, the liquid agent spraying device 140A of Embodiment 2 can perform two types of spraying, namely liquid agent spraying and liquid spraying, but the liquid agent spraying device 140B in the modification 1 of Embodiment 2 can perform three types of spraying, namely liquid agent spraying, liquid spraying, and air ejection. Regarding the structure other than this point and the points to be described below, the washing and drying machine 100A of Embodiment 2 is the same as the washing and drying machine of the modification 1, so the detailed description is omitted.

[0176] The liquid agent spraying device 140B in the modification 1 of Embodiment 2 includes a first switching unit 142B and a second switching unit 149. The first switching unit 142B and the second switching unit 149 are, for example, three-way valves. In this case, the liquid agent spraying device 140B has a structure of a double three-way valve.

[0177] The first switching unit 142B can communicate with the second switching unit 149 via the fifth path 171. The first switching unit 142B can be switched to either the connection between the first path 144 and the second path 145 or the connection between the first path 144 and the fifth path 171 by switching control from the control unit 131.

[0178] The second switching unit 149 can be switched to either the connection between the fifth path 171 and the third path 146A or the connection between the fifth path 171 and the fourth path 172 by switching control from the control unit 131.

[0179] One end of the fourth path 172 is connected to the second switching unit 149, and the other end is an open end and open to the atmosphere. In other words, the fourth path 172 is a path through which the gas flowing into the second switching unit 149 passes.

[0180] In addition, the liquid agent spraying device 140B in the first modification of the second embodiment may have a structure with three solenoid valves instead of a structure with two switching units. Figure 24 FIG. is an explanatory diagram showing the structure of the liquid agent spraying device 140C according to the second modification of the second embodiment. The liquid agent spraying device may also be, for example, Figure 24 as shown, a liquid agent spraying device 140C having a triple solenoid valve. In this case, the first path 144C branches at two places, and the first solenoid valve 173 and the second solenoid valve 174 are arranged at each branch point. The control unit 131 can control the connection between the first path 144C and the second path 145 by controlling the first solenoid valve 173, and can control the connection between the first path 144C and the third path 146A by controlling the second solenoid valve 174. One end of the first path 144C is an open end, and the control unit 131 can perform control to open the first path 144C to the atmosphere by controlling the third solenoid valve 175.

[0181] In the first modification of the second embodiment, the Figure 19 shown clothing treatment program is also started. Figure 25 FIG. is a flowchart showing the process of the cleaning step (S44) in the first modification of the second embodiment. Figures 26 to 28 FIG. is an operation explanatory diagram of the liquid agent spraying device 140B in the first modification of the second embodiment. In the spraying step (S3), the control unit 131 operates the first switching unit 142 in such a way that the first path 144 and the second path 145 are connected, so as to switch from the first connected state to the second connected state. In the second connected state, the liquid agent is supplied from the first tank 141 to the spray nozzle 154. Figure 26 Then, with reference to

[0182] Next, with reference to Figures 25 to 28To illustrate the cleaning step (S44) in Modification 1 of Embodiment 2.

[0183] When starting the cleaning step (S44), as Figure 27 shown, the control unit 131 operates the first switching unit 142 so that the first path 144 communicates with the fifth path 171, and operates the second switching unit 149 so that the fifth path 171 communicates with the third path 146A, to switch from the second communication state to the third communication state (S61).

[0184] Next, during the water spraying in step S51, the control unit 131 drives (turns ON) the air pump 143 to spray the water in the second tank 148 into the drum 102. Thereby, the liquid agent remaining in the first switching unit 142, the first path 144, the spray nozzle 154, and the drum 102 can be removed.

[0185] Next, as Figure 28 shown, the control unit 131 operates the second switching unit 149 so that the fifth path 171 communicates with the fourth path 172, to switch from the third communication state to the first communication state (S62).

[0186] Next, during the air ejection in step S63, the control unit 131 drives (turns ON) the air pump 143 to eject air into the drum 102 from the open end of the fourth path 172. Thereby, the water in which the liquid agent is dissolved remaining in the first switching unit 142, the first path 144, and the spray nozzle 154 can be removed, and thus the cleaning effect of the path can be further improved.

[0187] Figure 29 is an explanatory diagram showing the structure of the liquid agent spraying device 140D of Modification 3 of Embodiment 2. It is also possible to adopt the liquid agent spraying device 140D using a four-way valve as Figure 29 shown, to replace the liquid agent spraying device 140B using a double two-way three-way valve. Since the first switching unit 142D is a four-way valve, it can be switched to any one of the second communication state in which the first path 144 communicates with the second path 145, the third communication state in which the first path 144 communicates with the third path 146D, and the first communication state in which the first path 144 communicates with the fourth path 172D.

[0188] Figure 30This is an explanatory diagram showing the structure of the first switching section 142D of a four-way valve. The first switching section 142D has a double cylinder structure. The inner cylinder structure body forming the switching path rotates by a stepping motor (Stepping M) 181. The rotation amount of the stepping motor 181 is controlled by the control section 131. The first path 144, the second path 145, the third path 146D, and the fourth path 172D are connected to the outer cylinder structure body. When the stepping motor 181 rotates by a specified rotation amount, each path can be connected to the switching path 182.

[0189] [Effect]

[0190] In the washing and drying machine 100A equipped with the liquid agent spraying device 140B, the spray nozzle 154 is a two-fluid nozzle, and the liquid agent spraying device 140B has an air pump 143 for introducing air into the spray nozzle 154. The liquid agent spraying device 140B also has a fourth path 172 for introducing air into the second switching section 149. The first switching section 142B and the second switching section 149 can switch the path connected to the first path 144 among the second path 145, the third path 146A, and the fourth path 172. After the spraying step (S3), in the cleaning step (S44), the control section 131 connects the third path 146A to the first path 144 and operates the liquid agent spraying device 140B, and then connects the fourth path 172 to the first path 144 to operate the liquid agent spraying device 140B.

[0191] Thus, the liquid agent remaining in the path can be washed with water, and further, the water remaining in the path can be washed with air. Therefore, by switching the fluid flowing in the path in the order of treatment agent, water, and air, the cleaning effect can be further improved.

[0192] In addition, after the cleaning step (S44) ends, the control section 131 controls the second switching section 149 to connect the first path 144 to the fourth path 172. By connecting the first path 144 to the air path, the paths of the tank filled with the liquid agent and water and the nozzle side are cut off. Since the first tank 141 and the second tank 148 are closed spaces, drying of the liquid agent in the first tank 141 and the water in the second tank 148 can be suppressed.

[0193] (Embodiment 3)

[0194] Next, refer to Figure 31 to describe Embodiment 3. Figure 31 This is a longitudinal sectional view of the main part of the dryer 300 of Embodiment 3. Figures 32 to 34This is an explanatory diagram showing the structure of the liquid agent spraying device of Embodiment 3. In Embodiment 3, as the laundry treating device, the dryer 300 is described. The dryer 300 has differences in internal structure from the washing and drying machines 100 and 100A, but the description of the structure of the liquid agent spraying device 140 and the like, which is the same as that in Embodiments 1 and 2, is omitted.

[0195] The dryer 300 includes a housing 300a, a drum 302, a baffle 303, a fan 304, a heater 311, a lid 120, an operation display unit 125, and a liquid agent spraying device (140E or 140F or 140G). The housing 300a includes a front plate 300b constituting the front surface side of the dryer 300 and a trough lid 300c.

[0196] In such a dryer 300, a laundry treatment program can also be implemented in the same manner as the washing and drying machines 100 of Embodiment 1 and the washing and drying machine 100A of Embodiment 2. Figure 32 The liquid agent spraying device 140E of the dryer 300 shown is equivalent to the structure of the liquid agent spraying device 140 of the washing and drying machine 100.

[0197] In the dryer 300, the spray nozzle 154 is also, for example, a two-fluid nozzle, but different from the washing and drying machine 100 of Embodiment 1 and the washing and drying machine 100A of Embodiment 2, as Figure 32 shown, the spray nozzle 154 is located at a position above the first tank 141, and the first tank 141 is located at a position below the first switching unit 142. Here, the spray nozzle 154 being above the first tank 141 means that the spray nozzle 154 is located at a position above the height when the liquid agent in the first tank 141 is full.

[0198] After the liquid agent is sprayed by the liquid agent spraying device 140E, the water level of the liquid agent drops below the first switching unit 142 due to its own weight. Therefore, no liquid agent remains in the first path 144 from the spray nozzle 154 to the first switching unit 142. Thus, no liquid agent is sprayed during the cleaning step (S4), and spraying of the liquid agent at an undesired timing can be prevented.

[0199] In addition, Figure 33 The liquid agent spraying device 140F of the dryer 300 shown is equivalent to the structure of the liquid agent spraying device 140A of the washing and drying machine 100A. In the liquid agent spraying device 140F, the spray nozzle 154 is located at a position above the second tank 148, and the second tank 148 is located at a position below the first switching unit 142. Thus, no water remains from the spray nozzle 154 to the first switching unit 142, and water spraying at an undesired timing can be prevented.

[0200] In addition, in Figure 34In the liquid agent spraying device 140G of the dryer 300 shown, the spray nozzle 154 is located above the second tank 148, and the second tank 148 is located above the first switching unit 142. Thus, the path from the spray nozzle 154 to the first switching unit 142 is filled with water, so that deposits can be prevented from being generated due to drying of the liquid agent in the path.

[0201] (Other embodiments)

[0202] As described above, as an example of the technology in the present disclosure, embodiments have been described. For this purpose, drawings and detailed descriptions are provided. Thus, among the components described in the drawings and the detailed description, not only the components necessary to solve the problems can be included, but also the components not necessary to solve the problems for exemplifying the above technology can be included. Therefore, these non-essential components should not be directly regarded as essential just because they are described in the drawings and the detailed description.

[0203] (1) In the above-described embodiment 2, in the cleaning step (S44), the drum 102 is cleaned by spraying water from the spray nozzle 154, but it is not limited thereto. The washing and drying machine 100A further includes: a water tank 101 that is provided to be able to store water and includes the drum 102 inside; and a water supply path 162 that is connected to a water supply valve 161 and is used to supply water to the water tank 101. The control unit 131 may also open the water supply valve 161 in the cleaning step (S44) to supply water to the water tank 101 through the water supply path 162. By storing water in the water tank 101 to locally submerge the drum 102 with water, immersion cleaning can be performed, and the cleaning effect can be improved.

[0204] In addition, the washing and drying machine 100A further includes a motor 105 that rotates the drum 102, and the control unit 131 rotationally drives the motor 105 to rotate the drum 102 in the cleaning step (S44). By rotating the drum 102 in a state where water is immersed in the drum 102, the entire drum 102 can be cleaned without cleaning residues.

[0205] (2) In the above-described embodiments, the spray nozzle 154 is a two-fluid nozzle, but it is not limited thereto. The spray nozzle 154 may be a single-fluid nozzle or an ultrasonic nozzle.

[0206] (3) In the above-described embodiments, a liquid agent, water, or air is sprayed from the spray nozzle 154, but it is not limited thereto. Particulate ions wrapped in water may also be sprayed.

[0207] (Supplementary Note 1)

[0208] Next, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described.

[0209] The clothing treatment device of the first mode includes: a storage tank for storing an object to be treated; a spraying unit for spraying a liquid agent into the storage tank; and a control unit for controlling the operation of the spraying unit. The spraying unit includes: a spray nozzle; a first tank for storing the liquid agent; a switching unit provided upstream of the spray nozzle; a first path connecting the switching unit and the spray nozzle; a second path for introducing the liquid agent in the first tank into the switching unit; and a third path for introducing air or liquid into the switching unit. The switching unit can switch the path communicating with the first path between the second path and the third path. After executing a spraying step of connecting the second path and the first path and operating the spraying unit, the control unit executes a cleaning step of connecting the third path and the first path and operating the spraying unit.

[0210] Thereby, the residue of the liquid agent existing in the path can be suppressed. Rust and deterioration caused by the influence of the liquid agent can be suppressed for the path and the components constituting the spray nozzle. Also, since the precipitation caused by the drying of the liquid agent can be suppressed, the spray nozzle can be prevented from being blocked by the precipitate. In addition, the odor generated by the stagnation of the residual liquid agent can be reduced.

[0211] Regarding the clothing treatment device of the second mode, in the clothing treatment device of the first mode, the spray nozzle is a two-fluid nozzle, and the spraying unit has an air pump for supplying air to the spray nozzle. The third path is a path for introducing air into the switching unit, and the control unit operates the spraying unit in the cleaning step to introduce air into the first path.

[0212] Regarding the clothing treatment device of the third mode, in the clothing treatment device of the first or second mode, after the spraying step ends, the control unit cuts off the connection between the second path and the first path.

[0213] Regarding the clothing treatment device of the fourth mode, in the clothing treatment device of any one of the first to third modes, the spray nozzle is located below the first tank, and the control unit controls the switching unit during periods other than the spraying step to connect the first path and the third path.

[0214] Regarding the clothing treatment device of the fifth mode, in the clothing treatment device of the second mode, the control unit makes the rotational speed of the motor of the air pump in the cleaning step larger than the rotational speed of the motor of the air pump in the spraying step.

[0215] Regarding the clothing treatment device of the sixth mode, in the clothing treatment device of any one of the first to third modes, the spray nozzle is a two-fluid nozzle, the spray nozzle is located above the first tank, and the first tank is located below the switching unit.

[0216] Regarding the clothing treatment device of the seventh mode, in the clothing treatment device of the first mode, the third path is a path for introducing liquid into the switching unit, and the control unit operates the spraying unit in the cleaning step to introduce liquid into the first path.

[0217] Regarding the clothing treatment device of the eighth mode, in the clothing treatment device of the seventh mode, a second tank for containing liquid is further provided, and water or a cleaning agent is contained in the second tank.

[0218] Regarding the clothing treatment device of the ninth mode, in the clothing treatment device of the seventh or eighth mode, the spray nozzle is a two-fluid nozzle, the spraying unit has an air pump for introducing air into the spray nozzle, and the spraying unit also has a fourth path for introducing air into the switching unit. The switching unit can switch the path communicating with the first path among the second path, the third path, and the fourth path. After the spraying step, in the cleaning step, after making the third path communicate with the first path and operating the spraying unit, the control unit makes the fourth path communicate with the first path and operates the spraying unit.

[0219] Regarding the clothing treatment device of the tenth mode, in the clothing treatment device of the ninth mode, after the cleaning step ends, the control unit controls the switching unit to make the first path communicate with the fourth path.

[0220] Regarding the clothing treatment device of the eleventh mode, in the clothing treatment device of the eighth mode, the spray nozzle is located above the second tank, and the second tank is located below the switching unit.

[0221] Regarding the clothing treatment device of the twelfth mode, in the clothing treatment device of the eighth mode, the spray nozzle is located above the second tank, and the second tank is located above the switching unit.

[0222] Regarding the clothing treatment device of the thirteenth mode, in the clothing treatment device of any one of the first to twelfth modes, a tank housing portion for housing the first tank is further provided, and the control unit executes the spraying step when the first tank is removed from the tank housing portion.

[0223] Regarding the clothing treatment device of the fourteenth mode, in the clothing treatment device of the thirteenth mode, a loading and unloading detection unit is further provided, and the loading and unloading detection unit detects the loading and unloading of the first tank with respect to the tank housing portion. The control unit executes the spraying step when the loading and unloading detection unit detects that the first tank has been removed from the tank housing portion.

[0224] Regarding the clothing treatment device of the fifteenth mode, in the clothing treatment device of any one of the first to fourteenth modes, the control unit executes the spraying step when receiving an instruction to replace the liquid agent in the first tank.

[0225] Regarding the clothing treatment device of the sixteenth mode, in the clothing treatment device of any one of the thirteenth to fifteenth modes, after the control unit executes the spraying step, it notifies that the liquid agent in the first tank can be replaced.

[0226] Regarding the clothing treatment device of the seventeenth mode, in the clothing treatment device of any one of the first to sixteenth modes, it further includes a remaining amount detection unit that can detect the remaining amount of the liquid agent in the first tank. When the remaining amount of the liquid agent is less than the amount used in one treatment, the control unit executes a spraying step with a longer time than the normal spraying step.

[0227] (Supplementary Note 2)

[0228] The clothing treatment device of the first mode includes: a receiving tank for receiving the object to be treated; a spraying unit including a first tank for storing the liquid agent, which sprays the liquid agent into the receiving tank; and a control unit for controlling the operation of the spraying unit. The control unit executes a spraying step to make the spraying unit operate and a cleaning step to supply liquid into the receiving tank after the spraying step.

[0229] Thereby, the liquid agent remaining in the receiving tank can be cleaned. Rust and deterioration caused by the influence of the liquid agent can be suppressed for the component material of the receiving tank. The generation of odor due to the stagnation of the liquid agent remaining in the receiving tank can be suppressed. The generation of compounds due to the chemical reaction between the liquid agents when multiple liquid agents are sprayed can be suppressed.

[0230] Regarding the clothing treatment device of the second mode, in the clothing treatment device of the first mode, the spraying unit can further spray water, and the control unit makes the spraying unit operate to spray water in the cleaning step.

[0231] Regarding the clothing treatment device of the third mode, in the clothing treatment device of the second mode, it further includes a motor for rotating the receiving tank, and the control unit rotates the receiving tank during the period of spraying water in the cleaning step.

[0232] Regarding the clothing treatment device of the fourth mode, in the clothing treatment device of the second or third mode, the control unit rotates the receiving tank after executing the cleaning step, and the rotation speed of the receiving tank after executing the cleaning step is greater than the rotation speed of the receiving tank in the cleaning step.

[0233] Regarding the clothing treatment device of the fifth mode, in the clothing treatment device of any one of the second to fourth modes, it further includes a second tank for storing water, and the control unit makes the spraying unit operate to spray the water stored in the second tank in the cleaning step.

[0234] Regarding the clothing treatment device of the sixth mode, in the clothing treatment device of the fifth mode, it further includes a receiving part for holding the first tank, and the second tank can be installed in the receiving part.

[0235] Regarding the seventh aspect of the laundry processing device, in any one of the first to sixth aspects, the spray unit includes: a spray nozzle; a switching unit disposed upstream of the spray nozzle; a first path connecting the switching unit to the spray nozzle; a second path connecting the first tank to the switching unit; and a third path connecting the second tank to the switching unit. The control unit connects the second path to the first path in the spraying step, and connects the third path to the first path in the washing step.

[0236] Regarding the clothes processing apparatus of the eighth aspect, in the clothes processing apparatus of any one of the first to seventh aspects, an air supply unit for supplying air into the storage tub is further provided, and the control unit executes an air supply step for operating the air supply unit during the washing step.

[0237] Regarding a ninth aspect of the clothes processing apparatus, in the eighth aspect of the clothes processing apparatus, the air supply unit includes a fan that supplies pressurized air, and the control unit can control the rotation speed of the fan, and the rotation speed of the fan is changed in the air supply step.

[0238] Regarding a clothes processing apparatus according to a tenth aspect, in the clothes processing apparatus according to the seventh aspect, the spray nozzle is provided above the rotating shaft of the storage tub.

[0239] Regarding the clothes processing apparatus of the eleventh aspect, in the clothes processing apparatus of the tenth aspect, the storage tank is open toward the front, and the spray nozzle is provided in the front of the storage tank to spray the mist toward the inner lower part of the storage tank.

[0240] Regarding the clothes processing device of the twelfth aspect, in any one of the clothes processing devices of the first to eleventh aspects, the clothes processing device further comprises: an outer tank configured to store water and including a receiving tank therein; and a water supply path connected to the water supply valve for supplying water to the outer tank. The control unit opens the water supply valve in the washing step to supply water to the outer tank through the water supply path.

[0241] A thirteenth aspect of the laundry processing apparatus is the laundry processing apparatus of any one of the first to twelfth aspects, further comprising a motor for rotating the storage tub, wherein the control unit drives the motor to rotate in the washing step to rotate the storage tub.

[0242] Regarding the clothes processing apparatus of the fourteenth aspect, in any one of the clothes processing apparatuses of the first to thirteenth aspects, the apparatus further comprises: a cover body for opening and closing the opening of the storage tank; and an opening and closing detection unit for detecting the opening and closing of the cover body. The control unit starts the washing step when the opening and closing detection unit detects that the cover body is opened after the spraying step is performed and then detects that the cover body is closed.

[0243] Regarding the clothing treatment device of the fifteenth mode, in the clothing treatment device of any one of the first to fourteenth modes, when the control unit receives an instruction to start washing, it executes a washing step.

[0244] Regarding the clothing treatment device of the sixteenth mode, in the clothing treatment device of any one of the first to seventh modes, it further includes a blowing unit that blows air into the storage tank. After executing the washing step, the control unit executes a blowing step of operating the blowing unit.

[0245] This disclosure has been fully described in association with preferred embodiments with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, for those skilled in the art, various deformations and modifications are obvious. It should be understood that such deformations and modifications are included within the scope of the present invention as long as they do not depart from the scope of the present invention based on the appended claims.

[0246] Industrial applicability

[0247] This disclosure can be applied to a liquid agent spraying device that sprays a mist-like liquid agent and a clothing treatment device that treats an object to be treated. Specifically, it can be applied to clothing treatment devices including a drum washing machine, a vertical washing machine, a drum washing and drying machine, a vertical washing and drying machine, a clothes dryer, and a closet-type clothing care machine with a non-rotating storage tank, etc.

[0248] Explanation of reference numerals

[0249] 100, 100A: Washing and drying machine; 100b: Front panel; 100c: Tank lid; 101: Water tank; 101c: Tank lid; 102: Drum; 102a: Drum opening; 102b: Water passage hole; 104: Fan; 105: Motor; 106: Suction port; 107: Air outlet; 108: Housing; 110: Drying path; 111: Heat pump unit; 120: Lid; 121: Opening / closing detection unit; 125: Operation display unit; 126: Tank storage unit; 127: Loading / unloading detection unit; 128: Remaining amount detection unit; 131: Control unit; 133: Buzzer; 140, 140A, 140B, 140C, 140D, 140E, 140G: Liquid spraying device; 141: First tank; 142, 142B, 142D: First switching unit; 143: Air pump; 144, 144C: First path; 145: Second path; 146, 146A, 146D: Third path; 147: Air supply path; 148: Second tank; 149: Second switching unit; 150: Nozzle unit; 151: Base unit; 151a: Installation surface; 152: Nozzle part; 153: Nozzle mounting part; 153a: Bending structure; 154: Spray nozzle; 154a: Air side connection part; 154b: Liquid side connection part; 154c: Spray port; 155: Nozzle cap; 161: Water supply valve; 162: Water supply path; 163: Drain valve; 164: Drain path; 171: Fifth path; 172, 172D: Fourth path; 173: First solenoid valve; 174: Second solenoid valve; 175: Third solenoid valve; 181: Stepper motor; 182: Switching path; 300: Dryer; 300a: Housing; 300b: Front panel; 300c: Tank lid; 302: Drum; 303: Baffle; 304: Fan; 311: Heater.

Claims

1. A clothes processing device, comprising: A receiving tank, which is used to receive the processed objects; a spraying unit for spraying the liquid into the receiving tank; and a control unit that controls the action of the spray unit, in, The spraying unit comprises: Spray nozzles; A first tank, which is used to store the liquid agent; a switching portion disposed upstream of the spray nozzle; a first path connecting the switching portion and the spray nozzle; a second path for introducing the liquid agent in the first tank into the switching unit; and a third path for introducing air or liquid into the switching portion, The switching unit is capable of switching the path connected to the first path between the second path and the third path. The control unit executes a cleaning step of communicating the third path with the first path and operating the spray unit after executing a spraying step of communicating the second path with the first path and operating the spray unit.

2. The laundry processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein: The spray nozzle is a two-fluid nozzle, The spray unit has an air pump for supplying air to the spray nozzle. The third path is a path for introducing air into the switching unit. The control unit operates the spray unit in the cleaning step to introduce air into the first path.

3. The laundry processing apparatus according to claim 2, wherein: The control unit cuts off the communication between the second path and the first path after the spraying step is completed.

4. The laundry processing apparatus according to claim 3, wherein: The spray nozzle is located below the first tank. The control unit controls the switch unit so that the first path and the third path communicate with each other during a period other than the spraying step.

5. The laundry processing apparatus according to claim 2, wherein: The control unit makes the rotation speed of the motor of the air pump in the cleaning step higher than the rotation speed of the motor of the air pump in the spraying step.

6. The laundry processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein: The spray nozzle is a two-fluid nozzle, The spray nozzle is located above the first tank. The first tank is located below the switching unit.

7. The laundry processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein: The third path is a path for introducing liquid into the switching portion. The control unit operates the spray unit in the cleaning step to introduce the liquid into the first path.

8. The laundry processing apparatus according to claim 7, wherein: Also provided is a second tank for containing the liquid, Water or a cleaning agent is contained in the second tank.

9. The laundry processing apparatus according to claim 8, wherein: The spray nozzle is a two-fluid nozzle, The spray unit has an air pump for introducing air into the spray nozzle. The spray unit further includes a fourth path for introducing air into the switching unit. The switching unit is capable of switching the path connected to the first path between the second path, the third path, and the fourth path. After the spraying step, the control unit causes the third path to communicate with the first path and causes the spray unit to operate in the cleaning step, and then causes the fourth path to communicate with the first path and causes the spray unit to operate.

10. The laundry treating apparatus according to claim 9, wherein: The control unit controls the switching unit to connect the first path and the fourth path after the cleaning step is completed.

11. The laundry treating apparatus according to claim 8, wherein: The spray nozzle is located above the second tank. The second tank is located below the switching unit.

12. The laundry treating apparatus according to claim 8, wherein: The spray nozzle is located above the second tank. The second tank is located above the switching unit.

13. The laundry treating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein: further comprising a tank accommodating portion for accommodating the first tank, The control unit executes the spraying step when the first tank is removed from the tank housing unit.

14. The laundry treating apparatus according to claim 13, wherein: further comprising a loading and unloading detection unit configured to detect loading and unloading of the first tank with respect to the tank storage unit, The control unit executes the spraying step when the attachment and detachment detection unit detects that the first tank is removed from the tank storage unit.

15. The laundry treating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein: The control unit executes the spraying step when receiving an instruction to replace the liquid agent in the first tank.

16. The laundry treating apparatus according to claim 15, wherein: The control unit notifies that the liquid agent in the first tank can be replaced after executing the spraying step.

17. The laundry treating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein: further comprising a remaining amount detection unit capable of detecting a remaining amount of the liquid agent in the first tank, When the remaining amount of the liquid agent is smaller than the amount used for one treatment, the control unit executes a spraying step of a longer duration than a normal spraying step.

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