Washing machine

Abstract

The invention provides a washing machine capable of improving washing performance even under low load. The washing machine is provided with: an outer tub (2); a washing and dewatering tank (3) rotatably accommodated in the outer tank (2); a rotary wing disc (4) which is rotatably supported at the inner bottom of the washing and dewatering tank (3); a back blade (47) provided on the lower surface of the rotor disc (4); a drive motor (10) that rotationally drives the rotary wing disc (4) and the washing and dewatering tub (3); and a shower housing (15) which is provided on the inner surface of the washing / dewatering tub (3), and which causes the washing water at the inner bottom of the washing / dewatering tub (3) to rise and return into the washing / dewatering tub (3) by the rotation of the back blades (47), in which a longitudinal slit (15a1) is formed in the shower housing (15), the longitudinal slit (15a1) being formed so as to extend in the vertical direction, and the longitudinal slit (15a1) extending in the vertical direction. And the washing water rising in the spraying shell (15) is returned to the washing and dewatering tank (3).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to washing machines. Background Technology

[0002] Patent document 1 describes a washing machine that can spray washing water from an opening provided at the top for spray washing during the washing cycle.

[0003] Existing technical documents

[0004] Patent documents

[0005] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2022-87744 Summary of the Invention

[0006] The problem that the invention aims to solve

[0007] However, in the washing machine described in Patent Document 1, when the water volume in the tub is low (water level is low), the circulating water pump sometimes cannot reach the opening in the circulating water path, and the washing water cannot be sprayed out from the opening. In addition, when the amount of laundry is large, there is a concern that the detergent concentration on the top of the laundry will decrease, resulting in a decline in cleaning performance.

[0008] The present invention addresses the aforementioned problems and aims to provide a washing machine that improves cleaning performance even under low load conditions.

[0009] Methods for solving problems

[0010] The present invention is characterized by comprising: an outer tank; a washing and dehydrating tank rotatably housed within the outer tank; an agitator rotatably supported at the inner bottom of the washing and dehydrating tank; a blade portion disposed on the lower surface of the agitator; a drive mechanism for rotating the agitator and the washing and dehydrating tank; and a circulation flow path component disposed on the inner surface of the washing and dehydrating tank, wherein the rotation of the blade portion causes the washing water at the inner bottom of the washing and dehydrating tank to rise and return to the washing and dehydrating tank, and a slit is formed in the circulation flow path component, the slit extending vertically, and causing the washing water rising in the circulation flow path component to return to the washing and dehydrating tank.

[0011] Invention Effects

[0012] According to the present invention, a washing machine that can improve cleaning performance even under low load can be provided. Attached Figure Description

[0013] Figure 1 This is a right-side longitudinal sectional view of the washing machine according to this embodiment.

[0014] Figure 2 It is a three-dimensional longitudinal cross-section of a washing and dewatering tank equipped with a rotating vane.

[0015] Figure 3 It is a 3D view of the base of the washing and spin-drying tank.

[0016] Figure 4 This is a perspective view showing the shape of the upper surface side of the rotating vane.

[0017] Figure 5 This is a perspective view showing the shape of the lower surface side of the rotating disk.

[0018] Figure 6A This is a top view of the bottom plate of the washing and spin-drying tank.

[0019] Figure 6B yes Figure 6A Section II.

[0020] Figure 7A This is the front view of the spray nozzle housing.

[0021] Figure 7B yes Figure 7A Enlarged view of section II-II.

[0022] Figure 7C This is a rear view of the spray nozzle housing.

[0023] Figure 7D This is a three-dimensional view of the spray nozzle housing from the rear side.

[0024] Figure 8A This is the front view of the filter housing.

[0025] Figure 8B This is a three-dimensional view of the filter housing from the surface side.

[0026] Figure 8C This is a rear view of the filter housing.

[0027] Figure 8D This is a three-dimensional view of the filter housing from the rear side.

[0028] Figure 9 This is the front view of the wire chip filter.

[0029] Figure 10 This is a cross-sectional view of the base plate of a washing machine, showing a modified example of this embodiment.

[0030] Figure 11 This is a rear view of the spray housing of a washing machine, a modified example of this embodiment.

[0031] Symbol Explanation

[0032] 2 outer grooves

[0033] 3 Washing and Spin-drying Tanks

[0034] 4. Rotary vane (stirring vane)

[0035] 10. Drive motors (drive mechanisms)

[0036] 11, 11A base plate

[0037] 12 and 13 rectifier components

[0038] 15. Spray housing (first circulation path component)

[0039] 15a1 Longitudinal slit (slit)

[0040] 15a2, 15a3 ribs

[0041] 15° Upper spray outlet (another spray outlet)

[0042] 17° Upper-level spray outlet (spray outlet)

[0043] 17 Filter housing (second circulation path component)

[0044] 31 main body panels

[0045] 33 lint filter

[0046] 47. Backside blades (blade section) Detailed Implementation

[0047] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with appropriate reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0048] It should be noted that the following description uses an example of a vertical washing machine S capable of washing, rinsing, and spin-drying.

[0049] Figure 1 This is a right-side longitudinal sectional view of the washing machine according to this embodiment. It should be noted that the washing machine S of the present invention can also be applied to vertical washing machines that can also perform a drying process.

[0050] The washing machine S has an outer frame 1 that forms the shape of the casing. Inside the outer frame 1 of the washing machine S, there is an outer tub 2 for storing washing water, a washing and spin-drying tub 3 (inner tub) inside the outer tub 2, a rotating impeller 4 (agitator) that rotates at the bottom of the washing and spin-drying tub 3, and a drive motor 10 (drive mechanism) that drives the rotating impeller 4 to rotate.

[0051] The outer frame 1 is formed into a vertically elongated cuboid shape by sheet metal forming and stamping of steel plates. A base 32 made of synthetic resin is provided at the bottom of the outer frame 1 as a base plate. A top cover 6 made of synthetic resin is provided on the top of the outer frame 1. An operation panel 6p for user operation of the washing machine S is provided on the upper front surface of the top cover 6. The operation panel 6p is electrically connected to the control device e located in the lower front part of the washing machine S. It should be noted that although in Figure 1 Although not shown in the figure, the outer frame 1 is reinforced with a steel plate reinforced with rust-proof treatment inside.

[0052] The outer groove 2 is made of synthetic resin. The outer groove 2 is roughly cylindrical with a bottom. The outer groove 2 is supported in the center of the outer frame 1 by a vibration damping device 2b that engages with the locking part 2k of the outer groove 2.

[0053] The washing and spin-drying tank 3 is a bottomed cylindrical shape that holds the laundry (clothes) to be washed and spun. The washing and spin-drying tank 3 is located in the center of the outer tank 2 and is supported to rotate freely within the outer tank 2. The rotation axis O of the washing and spin-drying tank 3 is arranged in a generally vertical direction.

[0054] The washing and dehydration tank 3 has multiple small through holes 3a on its generally cylindrical sidewalls for water passage and dehydration. It should be noted that... Figure 1 In the diagram, only a portion of the multiple small through holes 3a are shown; the others are omitted. Additionally, the washing and spin-drying tank 3 has multiple through holes 3b on its bottom wall for the passage of washing water and rinsing water. Furthermore, a circular fluid balancer 3c is provided at the upper edge of the washing and spin-drying tank 3.

[0055] The drive motor 10 is housed within the outer frame 1 and selectively drives the rotating impeller 4 and the washing / spinning tank 3 via an electromagnetic clutch 10c. Alternatively, the drive motor 10 may be, for example, a DC brushless motor driven by direct current. The DC brushless motor is controlled by vector control based on the control device e.

[0056] An outer cover 5 is provided on the upper part of the outer frame 1, which can be opened and closed freely when the user takes out or puts in laundry. The rear side of the outer cover 5 is pivotally supported by a top cover 6 provided on the upper part of the outer frame 1. An inner cover 5u is provided below the outer cover 5, which can be opened and closed freely around a rear axis when taking out or putting in laundry. In this way, laundry is taken out or put in from the washing and spin-drying tank 3 by opening and closing the outer cover 5 and the inner cover 5u, and then through the laundry inlet 6a.

[0057] Inside the outer frame 1, a water supply unit 7 for supplying washing and rinsing water is provided on the rear side of the outer cover 5 of the top cover 6. The water supply unit 7 has a water tank (not shown) with multiple water passages inside. Washing and rinsing water are supplied to the water supply unit 7 through a water supply hose connection port 8 protruding upward from the top cover 6. Specifically, tap water and bath water are supplied from the water supply hose connection port 8 and injected into the interior of the outer tank 2. In addition, a detergent and fabric softener dispensing device 36 is provided on the rear side of the top cover 6. Detergent and fabric softener dispensed into the dispensing device 36 are injected into the space between the outer tank 2 and the washing and spin-drying tank 3 using the dispensing hose (not shown).

[0058] Additionally, at the rear bottom of the outer tub 2, a normally closed drain valve 53, which opens only during drainage, is connected to the washing water drain passage 52 for draining. The drain valve 53 is closed during washing and rinsing operations. The drain valve 53 opens when the washing water is sprayed out, allowing the washing water and rinsing water stored in the outer tub 2 to be discharged from the washing water drain passage 52 to the outside of the washing machine S.

[0059] The washing machine S is equipped with a water level sensor 55 that detects the water level of the washing water and rinsing water accumulated in the outer tub 2. An air trap 50 is provided near the bottom of the outer tub 2. An air pipe 56 is connected in communication with the air trap 50, and the water level sensor 55 is connected in communication with the upper end of the air pipe 56.

[0060] Figure 2 This is a longitudinal sectional perspective view of a washing and dewatering tank equipped with a rotating impeller. It should be noted that... Figure 2 This is a cross-sectional view taken at the center of the spray housing 15 (circulation flow path component, first circulation flow path component) and the filter housing 17 (second circulation flow path component) through the rotation center of the washing and dewatering tank 3.

[0061] like Figure 2 As shown, the lower part of the washing and spin-drying tank 3 has a shallow, bottomed cylindrical base plate 11. Furthermore, a rotating impeller 4 is rotatably mounted at the bottom of the washing and spin-drying tank 3 to agitate the washing and rinsing water for washing and rinsing. The rotating impeller 4 is rotatably mounted at the center of the bottom of the washing and spin-drying tank 3. During washing and rinsing operations, the rotating impeller 4 repeatedly rotates forward and backward.

[0062] The washing and dehydration tank 3 is composed of a base plate 11 made of synthetic resin, a main body plate 31 made of stainless steel alloy, and a fluid balancer 3c. A small through hole 3a is formed in the main body plate 31 (see reference). Figure 1 It should be noted that, in Figure 2 The illustration of the small through hole 3a is omitted in the text.

[0063] A spray housing 15 (first circulation path component) and a filter housing 16 (second circulation path component) are installed on the inner wall of the washing and dewatering tank 3. The spray housing 15 and the filter housing 16 are located from the upper end of the main body plate 31 to the height of the rotating vane 4 on the bottom plate 11. Furthermore, the spray housing 15 and the filter housing 16 are positioned opposite each other across the rotation axis of the rotating vane 4. Additionally, a lint filter 33 is detachably mounted on the filter housing 16.

[0064] Figure 3 This is a perspective view showing the base of the washing and spin-drying tank. It should be noted that... Figure 3 This is the state in which the rotary vane 4 has been removed from the base plate 11.

[0065] like Figure 3 As shown, the bottom cylindrical plate 11 has a bottom plate 11t forming the bottom surface and cylindrical side plates 11s.

[0066] The bottom plate 11t has a central hole 11t1 for inserting the central shaft of the rotating vane 4 and a plurality of through holes 3b for the flow of washing liquid around the central hole 11t1. A portion of the circulating water channel 51b and a portion of the circulating water channel 61b are recessed on the side peripheral plate 11s of the bottom plate 11.

[0067] A circulation water passage 51b is provided on the base plate 11 for circulating washing water and rinsing water from bottom to top inside the washing and spin-drying tank 3. A spray housing 15 is installed in this circulation water passage 51b. Additionally, a circulation water passage 61b is provided opposite to the circulation water passage 51b at the location where a filter housing 17 is installed (see reference). Figure 1 Furthermore, circulating water passages 51b and 61b are symmetrically arranged with respect to the central axis of the washing and spin-drying tank 3. It should be noted that circulating water passages 51a and 61a (see reference) are provided at the bottom of the outer tank 2 to circulate washing water and rinsing water from bottom to top within the washing and spin-drying tank 3. Figure 1 ).

[0068] Additionally, the base plate 11 is provided with a retaining portion 11b for holding the lower part of the spray housing 15 in an annular shape. A slit-shaped hole 11c is formed in the retaining portion 11b for inserting the lower end of the spray housing 15. Multiple holes 11c are formed circumferentially.

[0069] On the base plate 11, a roughly triangular pyramid-shaped flow straightening member 12 is formed at the center of the inlet 51b1 of the circulating water passage 51b in the width direction. The flow straightening member 12 has a triangular central face 12a facing the center of the washing and dewatering tank 3, a roughly triangular first side face 12b connected to one side of the central face 12a, and a roughly triangular second side face 12c connected to the other side of the central face 12a. Ridge portions 12d of approximately the same height are formed at the upper edges of the first side face 12b and the second side face 12c (see reference). Figure 6A ).

[0070] The rectifier component 12 is located at the lower center of the circulating water channel 51b, thereby being controlled by the rotating vane 4 (see reference). Figure 4 , Figure 5 The rotating extrusion of the circulating water passage 51a, which is retained at the bottom of the outer tank 2 (refer to...) Figure 1 The washing liquid is guided to the vertical circulation water path 51b of the washing and dehydration tank 3 (see reference). Figure 1 Within the circulation channel 51b, the water can circulate smoothly from the lower part to the upper part. It should be noted that regarding... Figure 1 The circulating water path 61b shown also has a flow rectifying component 13 (see reference). Figure 6A ).

[0071] Figure 4 This is a perspective view showing the shape of the upper surface side of the rotating vane. Figure 5 This is a perspective view showing the shape of the lower surface of the rotary vane 4. The shape of the upper surface of the rotary vane 4 affects the movement of the laundry during the washing and rinsing operations described above.

[0072] like Figure 4 As shown, the upper surface of the rotating vane 4 has a central bulge 43, a plurality of valleys 42 arranged circumferentially outside the bulge 43, and a plurality of ridges 41 extending radially between adjacent valleys 42. It should be noted that the number of ridges 41 and valleys 42 can be arbitrarily selected.

[0073] like Figure 5 As shown, rib-shaped back blades 47 (blade portions) are formed on the lower surface of the rotating vane 4, forming protrusions. The back blades 47 on the lower surface of the rotating vane 4 protrude downwards, with their lower ends located on approximately the same plane. In the washing and rinsing processes, the back blades 47 serve to prevent water from accumulating at the bottom of the washing and dewatering tank 3 (see reference). Figure 1 The detergent solution and rinsing water create a turning outward flow of water.

[0074] Figure 6A This is a top view of the bottom plate of the washing and spin-drying tank. Figure 6B yes Figure 6A Section II.

[0075] like Figure 6A As shown, on the base plate 11, in the circulating water channel 61b (refer to...) Figure 1 At the center of the inlet 61b1, a roughly triangular pyramid-shaped rectifier component 13 (see reference) is formed. Figure 6A The rectifier 13 has a generally triangular central surface 13a facing the center of the washing and dewatering tank 3, a generally triangular first side surface 13b connected to one side of the central surface 13a, and a generally triangular second side surface 13c connected to the other side of the central surface 13a. Ridge portions 13d of approximately the same height are formed at the upper edges of the first side surface 13b and the second side surface 13c.

[0076] The rectifier component 13 is located at the lower center of the circulating water channel 61b, thereby being rectified by the rotating vane 4 (see reference). Figure 4 , Figure 5 The rotating extrusion of the circulating water passage 61a, which is retained at the bottom of the outer tank 2 (refer to...) Figure 1 The washing liquid is circulated in the vertical direction of the washing and dehydration tank 3 via the water path 61b (see reference). Figure 1 The water is guided to circulate smoothly from the bottom to the top of the circulating water path 61b.

[0077] like Figure 6B As shown, the width dimension s2 of the inlet edge of the circulating water channel 51b is larger than the width dimension s1 of the circulating water channel 51b. Therefore, the rotating vane 4 (refer to...) Figure 4 , Figure 5 The washing liquid that is squeezed out by the rotation and remains at the bottom of the washing and dehydrating tank 3 is smoothly guided into the circulating water path 51b of the washing and dehydrating tank 3, and the washing liquid can smoothly circulate from the bottom to the top of the circulating water path 51b.

[0078] Figure 7A This is the front view of the spray nozzle housing. Figure 7B yes Figure 7A Enlarged view of section II-II. Figure 7C This is a rear view of the spray nozzle housing. Figure 7D This is a three-dimensional view of the spray nozzle housing from the rear side.

[0079] like Figure 7AAs shown, the washing and spin-drying tank 3 has a front plate 15a facing the center and side plates 15b extending radially outward from both ends of the front plate 15a in the circumferential direction. Near the center of the front plate 15a in the width direction, two vertically extending longitudinal slits (elongated holes) 15a1 are formed. The longitudinal slits 15a1 are circumferentially separated and arranged parallel to each other. Furthermore, both longitudinal slits 15a1 have the same opening area. The opening area is determined by the extent to which the spray from the longitudinal slits 15a1 reaches the center of the washing and spin-drying tank 3. It should be noted that since the washing and spin-drying tank 3 rotates, if the spray reaches the center of the washing and spin-drying tank 3, the washing water can be sprayed onto the entire surface.

[0080] Furthermore, the upper end of the longitudinal slit 15a1 is located below the upper end of the spray housing 15. Additionally, the lower end of the longitudinal slit 15a1 is located above the lower end of the spray housing 15.

[0081] The upper ends of the pair of side plates 15b form a spray housing width dimension s12 that is larger than the width dimension s11 of the front plate 15a. The upper edge of the front plate 15a is lower than the upper edge of the pair of side plates 15b, forming an upper spray outlet 15o (another spray outlet).

[0082] It should be noted that the spray housing 15 is injection molded using low-cost and heat-resistant resins such as PP (polypropylene). Furthermore, the material of the spray housing 15 is arbitrary as long as it meets the functional and lifespan requirements of the spray housing.

[0083] like Figure 7B As shown, the longitudinal slit 15a1 becomes an opening (through hole) with a slit width dimension s10. Furthermore, the outlet on the central side of the washing and dewatering tank 3 of the longitudinal slit 15a1 has a front plate 15a formed with a relatively thick thickness, having a slit height dimension t11. This prevents foreign objects from entering through the longitudinal slit 15a1.

[0084] On the back side of the front plate 15a, a longitudinally elongated rib 15a2 is formed along the vertical direction (axial direction) on the outer side of the width direction (circumferential direction) of the longitudinal slit 15a1. The rib 15a2 opens near the longitudinal slit 15a1, thereby suppressing shrinkage marks and deformation when the spray shell 15 with the longitudinal slit 15a1 is injection molded.

[0085] Rib 15a2 is formed to be longer than the depth of longitudinal slit 15a1, and is formed to be connected to the main body plate 31 (see reference). Figure 2 The length of the contact.

[0086] like Figure 7C As shown, the spray housing 15 has an inflow width dimension s13 for the washing liquid into the spray housing 15, a spacing width dimension s14 for the longitudinal slits, and an upper spray flow path width dimension s15.

[0087] Rib 15a2 is formed to be longer than longitudinal slit 15a1. That is, the upper end of rib 15a2 is consistent with the upper end of longitudinal slit 15a1, and the lower end of rib 15a2 is formed to be longer in the vertical direction downward compared with longitudinal slit 15a1.

[0088] In order to spray water onto the laundry in the washing and dehydration tank 3 from above or in the center, the spray housing 15 is provided with a flow path 15r for the washing liquid to flow from below to above and an upper spray outlet 15o.

[0089] like Figure 7D As shown, an insertion retaining portion 11b is formed protruding downwards at the lower end of the spray housing 15 (see reference). Figure 3 Claw 15c in hole 11c.

[0090] Furthermore, on the back side of the spray housing 15, near the side plate 15b, end ribs 15b1 and 15b2 extending in a generally vertical direction are formed. Flow paths 15r are formed by these left and right end ribs 15b1 and 15b2. That is, a flow path 15r1 is formed between ribs 15a2. A flow path 15r2 is formed between rib 15a2 and end rib 15b1. A flow path 15r3 is formed between rib 15a2 and end rib 15b2.

[0091] Figure 8A This is the front view of the filter housing. Figure 8B This is a three-dimensional view of the filter housing from the surface side. Figure 8C This is a rear view of the filter housing. Figure 8D This is a three-dimensional view of the filter housing from the rear side.

[0092] like Figure 8A and Figure 8B As shown, the filter housing 17 has: a front plate 17a facing the center of the washing and dewatering tank 3; and side plates 17b extending radially outward from both ends of the front plate 17a in the circumferential (width direction). Additionally, a mounting portion 17d is formed on the front plate 17a for detachably mounting a lint filter 33. This mounting portion 17d is formed in a concave shape to allow the lint filter 33 to be inserted. A rectangular opening 17e is formed on the bottom surface of the mounting portion 17d for introducing circulating water into the lint filter 33.

[0093] Additionally, an insertion hole 11d is formed at the lower end of the filter housing 17, which is inserted into the base plate 11 (see reference). Figure 6A Claw 17c in )

[0094] like Figure 8C and Figure 8DAs shown, end ribs 17b1 and 17b2 are formed on the inner side of the side plate 17b on the back side of the filter housing 17. The end ribs 17b1 and 17b2 are formed extending vertically at the positions where the lint filter 33 is mounted. The end ribs 17b1 and 17b2 are inclined at an increasing interval on the upper side of the lint filter 33. The end ribs 17b1 and 17b2 are inclined at an increasing interval on the lower side of the lint filter 33.

[0095] Furthermore, protruding surfaces 17f1 and 17f2 are formed on the back of the filter housing 17, extending towards the side of the lint filter 33. A flow path 17r1 extending vertically is formed between the protruding surface 17f1 and the end rib 17b1. Additionally, a flow path 17r2 extending vertically is formed between the protruding surface 17f2 and the end rib 17b2.

[0096] In order to spray water onto the laundry in the washing and dehydration tank 3 from above, the filter housing 17 is provided with flow paths 17r1, 17r2 and an upper spray outlet 17o (spray outlet) for the washing liquid to flow from below to above.

[0097] Figure 9 This is a front view showing the wire lint filter.

[0098] like Figure 9 As shown, the lint filter 33 has a housing 34 with a collection section 34a for collecting lint. A claw portion 34b is formed at the lower part of the housing 34, which inserts into the mounting portion 17d (see reference). Figure 8A , Figure 8B In the hole 17d1 of the mounting portion 17d. A hook portion 34c is formed on the upper part of the housing 34, which engages with the locking hole 17d2 formed in the mounting portion 17d.

[0099] In the washing machine S configured in this way, the circulating water passages 51b and 61b are connected to the pump chamber formed by the inner circumferential side (inner bottom) of the base plate 11 and the outer circumferential side of the back blades 47 of the rotating impeller 4. The washing water is forced outward by the force generated by the rotation of the back blades 47, thereby causing the washing water to rise through the circulating water passages 51b and 61b. As a result, the washing water is intermittently returned to the washing and spin-drying tank 3 from the upper spray outlet 15o located at the top of the spray housing 15 and sprayed. Additionally, the washing water is intermittently returned to the washing and spin-drying tank 3 from the longitudinal slit 15a1 located at the top of the spray housing 15 and sprayed. Furthermore, the washing water is intermittently returned to the washing and spin-drying tank 3 from the upper spray outlet 17o located at the top of the filter housing 17 and sprayed. Additionally, lint in a portion of the washing water rising in the circulating water passage 61b of the washing and spin-drying tank 3 is removed by the lint filter 33, and a portion of this washing water is returned to the washing and spin-drying tank 3.

[0100] Additionally, when the rotating vane 4 rotates, the washing water squeezed outward by the rear blade 47 passes through the first side 12b and the second side 12c of the rectifier 12 (see reference). Figure 6B The water easily rises vertically upon contact, allowing it to circulate smoothly from bottom to top in the center of the circulation channel 51b in the width direction. Thus, by placing the rectifier 12 at the center of the inlet 51b1 of the circulation channel 51b, the washing water's tendency to flow in the width direction within the circulation channel 51b can be suppressed. Consequently, water can be sprayed in a spray pattern from the longitudinal slit 15a1. Therefore, even when the water level is low and spraying from the upper spray outlet 15o is not possible, washing water can still be sprayed from the longitudinal slit 15a1. As a result, even under low load and low water level conditions, washing liquid can be applied to the laundry, improving cleaning power.

[0101] In addition, under high load and high water level conditions, the washing water rising in the circulating water path 51b passes through the flow path 15r1~15r3 and collides with the lower surface of the fluid balancer 3c to change direction. The washing water is then sprayed from the upper spray outlet 15o into the washing and dewatering tank 3.

[0102] Additionally, when the rotating vane 4 rotates, the washing water squeezed outward by the rear blade 47 passes through the first side 13b and the second side 13c of the rectifier 13 (see reference). Figure 6A The water easily rises vertically upon contact, allowing it to circulate smoothly from bottom to top in the center of the width direction of the circulating water passage 61b. Thus, by placing the rectifier 13 at the inlet 61b1 of the circulating water passage 61b (see reference...) Figure 6B In the center of the filter housing 17, the washing water is prevented from flowing too wide in the width direction within the circulating water path 61b. This allows the washing water to be directed into the lint filter 33. Furthermore, the washing water rising in the circulating water path 61b flows through the flow paths 17r1 and 17r2 on both sides of the filter housing 17 in the width direction (see reference 17r1 and 17r2). Figure 8C , Figure 8D The fluid balancer 3c collides with the lower surface of the fluid balancer 3c and changes direction, spraying the washed items from the upper spray outlet 17o into the washing and dewatering tank 3 in a spray pattern.

[0103] Next, the washing and rinsing operations of the washing machine S according to the embodiment will be explained.

[0104] In the washing process, firstly, the water supply unit 7 (refer to...) Figure 1 ) to the detergent dispensing device 36 (refer to Figure 1 Water supply, thereby supplying detergent, tap water, etc. to the outer tank 2.

[0105] Furthermore, within the outer tank 2, solid detergent is dissolved by tap water, while liquid detergent is diluted by tap water, generating a high-concentration detergent solution. The water supply unit 7 stops supplying water when it reaches a first water level that is low enough to submerge the back blades 47 of the lower surface of the rotating vane 4. It should be noted that the first water level is preferably a low water level not exceeding the upper surface of the rotating vane 4, but it can also be a water level slightly exceeding the upper surface of the rotating vane 4. In addition, in the washing process using the high-concentration detergent solution, a water volume less than the water volume calculated based on the load is used. Furthermore, in the washing process using the high-concentration detergent solution under high load conditions, a water level is set such that the longitudinal slit 15a1 is not submerged, using a water volume less than the water volume calculated based on the load.

[0106] When the drive motor 10 rotates the rotary vane 4 at the first water level, the high-concentration detergent liquid accumulated at the bottom of the outer tank 2 flows upward from the circulation water path 51a at the bottom of the outer tank 2 into the circulation water path 51b of the washing and dewatering tank 3, and is supplied into the washing and dewatering tank 3 via the longitudinal slit 15a1. Additionally, the high-concentration detergent liquid accumulated at the bottom of the outer tank 2 flows upward from the circulation water path 61a at the bottom of the outer tank 2 into the circulation water path 61b of the washing and dewatering tank 3, and is supplied into the washing and dewatering tank 3 via the lint filter 33.

[0107] In this way, the high-concentration detergent solution is sprayed onto the laundry through the longitudinal slit 15a1 in a circulating manner, and the rotating vane 4 rotates alternately in the forward and reverse directions to perform washing (pre-washing).

[0108] Afterwards, the water supply unit 7 supplies water until it reaches a second water level (a specified amount of water corresponding to the load) which is higher than the first water level. The drive motor 10 causes the washing and dewatering tank 3 and the rotating vane 4 to rotate alternately in the forward and reverse directions to perform washing at the high water level (formal washing).

[0109] Initially, the water level is set low, and washing with a high concentration is performed using only the longitudinal slit 15a1. After this high-concentration washing, water is not drained; instead, water is supplied and accumulated to reach a high water level. Thus, water is sprayed from the upper spray outlet 15o in addition to the longitudinal slit 15a1, allowing for washing with a large flow of washing water. For example, under low load conditions, washing with a high-concentration detergent solution is performed using only the longitudinal slit 15a1, followed by water supply and washing using only the longitudinal slit 15a1 (or using both the longitudinal slit 15a1 and the upper spray outlet 15o). Conversely, under high load conditions, washing with a high-concentration detergent solution is performed using only the longitudinal slit 15a1, followed by water supply and washing using the upper spray outlets 15o and 17o.

[0110] In the rinsing process, similar to the washing process, the rinsing water supplied in a manner that accumulates at the bottom of the outer tank 2 is circulated from the upper spray outlet 15o and the longitudinal slit 15a1 (or from the longitudinal slit 15a1) onto the laundry, while the rotating vane 4 rotates in both directions to remove the detergent components contained in the laundry and perform rinsing.

[0111] In the subsequent dehydration process, the drive motor 10 causes the washing and dehydration tank 3 and the rotating impeller 4 to rotate at high speed in one direction. As a result, the water contained in the laundry passes through multiple small through holes 3a due to centrifugal force (see reference). Figure 1 (and thus dehydrated.)

[0112] The washing machine S of this embodiment described above includes: an outer tub 2; a washing and spin-drying tub 3 rotatably housed within the outer tub 2; a rotating impeller 4 rotatably supported on the inner bottom of the washing and spin-drying tub 3; a rear blade 47 disposed on the lower surface of the rotating impeller 4; a drive motor 10 that drives the rotating impeller 4 and the washing and spin-drying tub 3 to rotate; and a spray housing 15 disposed on the inner surface of the washing and spin-drying tub 3, wherein the washing water at the inner bottom of the washing and spin-drying tub 3 rises and returns to the washing and spin-drying tub 3 due to the rotation of the rear blade 47. A longitudinal slit 15a1 is formed in the spray housing 15, which extends vertically and allows the washing water rising in the spray housing 15 to return to the washing and spin-drying tub 3. Therefore, even under low load (low water level), circulating water can be sprayed from the longitudinal slit 15a1 onto the top of the laundry, maintaining the detergent concentration on the top of the laundry and improving cleaning performance.

[0113] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the longitudinal slits 15a1 are formed at two locations near the center in the width direction of the spray housing 15. This allows for the effective spraying of water flow.

[0114] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the opening area of ​​each longitudinal slit 15a1 is the same. Therefore, washing water can be sprayed evenly from both longitudinal slits 15a1.

[0115] In this embodiment, the washing and dehydration tank 3 includes a base plate 11 with a rotating vane 4 and a main body plate 31 with a spray housing 15. A flow straightening member 12 is provided on the base plate 11 to direct the washing water upward toward the spray housing 15. As a result, the washing water rising in the spray housing 15 can be prevented from deviating in the width direction and can be sprayed out evenly from the two longitudinal slits 15a1.

[0116] Furthermore, in this embodiment, ribs 15a2 are formed on the back side of the spray housing 15 along the vertical direction on the outer side of each longitudinal slit 15a1 in the width direction. As a result, the washing water rising inside the spray housing 15 flows toward the longitudinal slits 15a1 by contacting the ribs 15a2, making it easy for the washing water to be sprayed from the longitudinal slits 15a1 toward the washing and dehydration tank 3.

[0117] In this embodiment, the lower end of the longitudinal slit 15a1 is positioned higher than the lowest set water level. Therefore, even during washing with a low water level, washing water can be sprayed onto the laundry from the longitudinal slit 15a1, thus improving cleaning performance.

[0118] In this embodiment, the system includes a spray housing 15 (first circulation path component) having a longitudinal slit 15a1, and a filter housing 17 (second circulation path component) having a lint filter 33 and an upper spray outlet 17o (spray outlet). The upper spray outlet 17o is formed above the lint filter 33, allowing washing water to rise and be sprayed out from the washing and dehydrating tank 3. The spray housing 15 has an upper spray outlet 15o (another spray outlet) above the longitudinal slit 15a1, allowing washing water to rise and be sprayed into the washing and dehydrating tank 3. The spray housing 15 and the filter housing 17 are positioned opposite each other. Therefore, under heavy loads, clothes are difficult to move, and by spraying water from the two upper spray outlets 15o and 17o, washing water can be distributed to all clothes. Furthermore, even with the spray housing 15 and the filter housing 17 positioned opposite each other, the water can still be distributed to all clothes. As a result, by evenly distributing the detergent solution onto the upper part of the clothes, uneven washing can be suppressed and cleaning performance can be improved.

[0119] Furthermore, by spraying from the upper layer of the filter housing 17 (upper spray outlet 17o), the cleaning power can be improved. In addition, by spraying from the upper layer of the filter housing 17, the number of spray housings that were previously installed can be reduced, and costs can also be reduced.

[0120] Figure 10 This is a cross-sectional view of the base plate of a modified example of the washing machine according to this embodiment. Figure 11 This is a rear view of the spray housing of a modified example of the washing machine according to this embodiment.

[0121] like Figure 10 As shown, the base plate 11A is a structure of the base plate 11 of the above embodiment without the rectifier 12. That is, the base plate 11A is a structure without the rectifier 12.

[0122] like Figure 11As shown, the spray housing 15A has two longitudinal slits 15a1 and 15a3 formed along the vertical direction in the longitudinal slits 15a1. The rib 15a3 is disposed inside the longitudinal slits 15a1.

[0123] In a washing machine of this type where the rectifier 12 is not provided on the base plate 11A, the washing water squeezed outward by the rotation of the back blades 47 of the rotating impeller 4 easily rises through the flow paths 15r2 and 15r3, which are located further outward than the ribs 15a3. Therefore, since the ribs 15a3 are provided on the inner side of the longitudinal slit 15a1, even if the water rises towards the flow paths 15r2 and 15r3, it will come into contact with the ribs 15a3 and will not flow further inward. Thus, it can be sprayed into the washing and spin-drying tub 3 through the longitudinal slit 15a1.

[0124] As explained above, in the washing machine of this embodiment, the washing and spin-drying tub 3 includes a base plate 11A with a rotating impeller 4 and a main body plate 31 with a spray housing 15A mounted thereon. On the back of the spray housing 15A, ribs 15a3 are formed along the vertical direction on the inner side of each longitudinal slit 15a1 in the width direction. Even in washing machines without a rectifier, washing water can be sprayed into the washing and spin-drying tub 3 from the longitudinal slits 15a1.

Claims

1. A washing machine, characterized in that, have: Outer groove; A washing and dehydration tank is rotatably housed within the outer tank; The stirring blades are rotatably supported at the bottom of the washing and dehydration tank; The blade section is disposed on the lower surface of the stirring blade; A drive mechanism that drives the agitator and the washing / dehydration tank to rotate. as well as A circulating flow path component is disposed on the inner surface of the washing and dewatering tank. The rotation of the blades causes the washing water at the bottom of the washing and dewatering tank to rise and return to the tank. A slit is formed in the circulation flow path component, which extends vertically and allows the washing water rising in the circulation flow path component to return to the washing and dewatering tank.

2. The washing machine according to claim 1, characterized in that, The slits are formed at two locations near the center in the width direction of the circulating flow path component.

3. The washing machine according to claim 2, characterized in that, The opening area of ​​each of the slits is the same.

4. The washing machine according to claim 2, characterized in that, The washing and dehydration tank has a base plate with the stirring blades and a main plate with the circulation flow path components installed. The base plate is provided with a rectifier that causes the washing water to rise toward the circulation flow path component.

5. The washing machine according to claim 4, characterized in that, On the back side of the circulating flow path component, ribs are formed on the outer side of each slit in the width direction along the vertical direction.

6. The washing machine according to claim 2, characterized in that, The washing and dehydration tank has a base plate with the stirring blades and a main plate with the circulation flow path components installed. On the back side of the circulating flow path component, ribs are formed on the inner side of each slit in the width direction along the vertical direction.

7. The washing machine according to claim 1, characterized in that, The lower end of the slit is at a position higher than the lowest water level that can be set.

8. The washing machine according to claim 1, characterized in that, have: A first circulation path component, having the aforementioned slit; and The second circulation flow path component includes a lint filter and a spray outlet. The spray outlet is located above the lint filter and causes the washing water to rise and be sprayed out from the washing and dewatering tank. In the first circulation flow path component, another spray outlet is formed above the slit to allow the washing water to rise and be sprayed out into the washing and dewatering tank. The first circulation flow path component and the second circulation flow path component are positioned opposite each other.

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