Water circulation device and washing system

Abstract

A washing system (100) comprises: a circulation path portion (41) that forms a circulation path (R1) of water that passes through a washing drum and a tank (21) of a washing machine (1); a second pump (27) that is provided downstream of the washing drum in the circulation path (R1) in a water circulation direction (D1) and upstream of the tank (21) in the circulation direction (D1), and causes water to flow along the circulation direction (D1); a sixth water path (31) that connects a first flow path extending from the washing drum to the second pump (27) along the circulation path (R1) and an external water source (200); and a switching valve (25) that switches the water supply source to the tank (21) between the washing drum and the water source (200).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a water circulation device and a washing system.Background Art

[0002] A tank that stores wastewater discharged from a washing machine in order to reuse the wastewater in the washing machine is known (see, for example, Patent Literature 1).Citation ListPatent Literature

[0003] Patent Literature 1: JP 2001-218997 ASummary of InventionTechnical Problem

[0004] Incidentally, when washing is repeatedly performed in a washing system that reuses the wastewater, the amount of stored water in the tank gradually decreases because water is taken away by clothes after washing. Therefore, in the washing system, it is necessary to replenish water to the tank periodically.

[0005] An object of the present disclosure is to provide a water circulation device and a washing system that can reduce a work burden of a water replenishment operation to the tank.Solution to Problem

[0006] A water circulation device according to one aspect of the present disclosure includes a circulation path portion and a water supply unit. The circulation path portion forms a circulation path of water that passes through a washing machine and a tank. The water supply unit supplies water to the tank.

[0007] A washing system according to another aspect of the present disclosure includes the water circulation device and the washing machine.Advantageous Effects of Invention

[0008] According to the present disclosure, it is possible to reduce the work burden of the water replenishment operation to the tank.Brief Description of Drawings

[0009] Fig. 1 is a diagram showing a configuration of a washing system according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. 2 is a cross-sectional view showing a configuration of a washing machine of the washing system according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. 3 is a block diagram showing a control system of the washing system according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. 4 is a flowchart showing an example of a water replenishment process executed in the washing system according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. 5 is a flowchart showing an example of an emergency stop process executed in the washing system according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. 6 is a diagram showing a configuration of a washing system according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. 7 is a cross-sectional view showing a configuration of a washing machine of the washing system according to the second embodiment of the present disclosure. Description of Embodiments

[0010] An embodiment of the present disclosure will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. The following embodiments and the like are merely examples of embodiments of the present disclosure, and do not limit the technical scope of the present disclosure.[First Embodiment]

[0011] First, a configuration of a washing system 100 according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure will be described with reference to Fig. 1. In Fig. 1, a circulation path R1 is indicated by a broken line.

[0012] In the present disclosure, the term "washing machine" refers to equipment in general that performs various processes such as washing on laundry. Examples of the processes on laundry performed in the washing machine include washing, drying, deodorizing, and sterilizing. The laundry is not particularly limited as long as it is made of a material suitable for washing with alkaline ion water. Examples of the laundry include cloth products. Illustrative examples of the laundry include clothes such as garments, hats, and gloves, fashion accessories such as shoes, bags, handkerchiefs, and towels, interior goods such as curtains and carpets, and bedding such as blankets, towel blankets, and futon covers.

[0013] The washing system 100 washes the laundry such as clothes using water to which a cleaning agent such as alkaline ion water is added. As shown in Fig. 1, the washing system 100 includes a washing machine 1 and a water circulation device 2.[Configuration of Washing Machine 1]

[0014] Next, a configuration of the washing machine 1 will be described with reference to Figs. 1 to 3.

[0015] As shown in Figs. 1 and 2, the washing machine 1 includes a housing 11, a door 12, a washing drum 13, a rotating drum 14, a motor 15, a water supply path 16, and a drain path 17. Further, the washing machine 1 includes a drying unit 18, an operation display unit 19, and a control unit 20 shown in Fig. 3.

[0016] The housing 11 accommodates the components of the washing machine 1. The housing 11 is formed in a substantially rectangular parallelepiped shape. As shown in Fig. 2, an inclined surface that is inclined toward an upper surface of the housing 11 is provided on an upper side of one side surface of the housing 11 corresponding to a front surface of the washing machine 1. A circular opening 11A is provided in the inclined surface. The opening 11A is used for putting the laundry into the rotating drum 14 inside the housing 11 and for taking the laundry out of the rotating drum 14. A water inlet 11B is provided on a rear side of the upper surface of the housing 11. The water inlet 11B is connected to a first water path 23 (see Fig. 1) of the water circulation device 2. The water inlet 11B is used for supplying water to the washing drum 13 inside the housing 11. A water outlet 11C is provided on a lower side of a left side surface of the housing 11. The water outlet 11C is connected to a second water path 24 (see Fig. 1) of the water circulation device 2. The water outlet 11C is used for draining water from the washing drum 13 inside the housing 11. Four leg portions 11D (see Fig. 2) are provided on a bottom surface of the housing 11. The four leg portions 11D are arranged at four corners of the bottom surface of the housing 11. Note that the water outlet 11C may be provided on a lower side of a right side surface of the housing 11, or on the bottom surface of the housing 11. Further, the housing 11 may include five or more leg portions 11D.

[0017] The door 12 is provided so as to be capable of opening and closing the opening 11A. For example, the door 12 is formed in a disk shape. The door 12 is attached to the opening 11A via a hinge (not shown) provided on either a left side or a right side of the opening 11A.

[0018] The washing drum 13 stores water used for washing. The washing drum 13 is formed in a cylindrical shape in which only one side in an axial direction is open. That is, the washing drum 13 includes a circular opening 13A (see Fig. 2). As shown in Fig. 2, the washing drum 13 is fixedly arranged inside the housing 11 in an orientation in which the opening 13A faces the opening 11A of the housing 11. A water inlet 13B is provided on an upper side surface of the washing drum 13. The water inlet 13B communicates with the water inlet 11B of the housing 11 via the water supply path 16. The water inlet 13B is used for supplying water to the washing drum 13. A water outlet 13C is provided on a lower side surface of the washing drum 13. The water outlet 13C communicates with the water outlet 11C of the housing 11 via the drain path 17. The water outlet 13C is used for draining water from the washing drum 13.

[0019] The rotating drum 14 accommodates the laundry. The rotating drum 14 is formed in a cylindrical shape in which only one side in an axial direction is open. That is, the rotating drum 14 includes a circular opening 14A (see Fig. 2). The rotating drum 14 has a size in a radial direction smaller than that of the washing drum 13. As shown in Fig. 2, the rotating drum 14 is arranged inside the washing drum 13 in an orientation in which the opening 14A faces the opening 11A of the housing 11. Further, the rotating drum 14 is arranged inside the washing drum 13 so as to be rotatable about a central axis (rotation axis) of the rotating drum 14. A large number of water passage holes (not shown) for supplying water stored in the washing drum 13 to an inside of the rotating drum 14 are provided in a side surface of the rotating drum 14.

[0020] The washing machine 1 is a so-called inclined drum type washing machine in which the rotating drum 14 is arranged obliquely. Specifically, the rotating drum 14 is arranged in an orientation in which the central axis is orthogonal to the inclined surface of the housing 11. An inclination angle of the rotating drum 14 with respect to a horizontal plane is set within a range of 5 degrees to 30 degrees in consideration of a water-saving effect, washing power, susceptibility of the laundry to damage, ease of taking out the laundry after completion of washing, etc. Note that the washing machine 1 is not limited to the so-called inclined drum type, and may be a so-called horizontal type washing machine in which the central axis of the rotating drum 14 is arranged to be horizontal.

[0021] The motor 15 supplies a rotational driving force to the rotating drum 14. The rotating drum 14 rotates about the central axis upon receiving the rotational driving force supplied from the motor 15. As shown in Fig. 3, the motor 15 is connected to the control unit 20, and is drive-controlled by the control unit 20.

[0022] The water supply path 16 is a water path from the water inlet 11B of the housing 11 to the water inlet 13B of the washing drum 13. As shown in Fig. 2, a water supply valve 16A and an ion water supply unit 16B are provided in the water supply path 16. The water supply valve 16A is a solenoid valve or a motor-operated valve that changes its state between an open state that allows passage of water and a closed state that prohibits passage of water. As shown in Fig. 3, the water supply valve 16A is connected to the control unit 20 and is drive-controlled by the control unit 20.

[0023] The ion water supply unit 16B generates alkaline ion water for washing and supplies the alkaline ion water to the water supply path 16. Specifically, the ion water supply unit 16B generates alkaline ion water for washing by supplying a predetermined amount of a stock solution of alkaline ion water into the water supply path 16. For example, the ion water supply unit 16B includes a stock solution storage unit, a stock solution supply path, and a stock solution supply pump. The stock solution storage unit stores the stock solution of alkaline ion water. For example, the stock solution of alkaline ion water is alkaline ion water having a pH value of 12.5 or more. The stock solution supply path is a water path of the stock solution of alkaline ion water from the stock solution storage unit to a confluence portion with the water supply path 16. The stock solution supply pump is provided in the stock solution supply path and causes the stock solution of alkaline ion water to flow along the stock solution supply path from the stock solution storage unit side toward the water supply path 16 side. The stock solution supply pump is connected to the control unit 20 (see Fig. 3) and is drive-controlled by the control unit 20. For example, when water is supplied to the water inlet 11B by the water circulation device 2 and water for washing is stored in the washing drum 13, the control unit 20 drives the stock solution supply pump to supply, into the water supply path 16, an amount of the stock solution of alkaline ion water that makes it possible to set the pH value of the water to be stored in the washing drum 13 to about 12.0.

[0024] The drain path 17 is a water path from the water outlet 13C of the washing drum 13 to the water outlet 11C of the housing 11. As shown in Fig. 2, a drain valve 17A and a drain filter 17B are provided in the drain path 17. The drain valve 17A is a solenoid valve or a motor-operated valve that changes its state between an open state that allows passage of water and a closed state that prohibits passage of water. As shown in Fig. 3, the drain valve 17A is connected to the control unit 20 and is drive-controlled by the control unit 20. The drain filter 17B captures foreign matter such as lint contained in water passing through the drain path 17.

[0025] The drying unit 18 (see Fig. 3) dries the laundry in a wet state in the rotating drum 14. The drying unit 18 includes a circulation air passage that passes through the rotating drum 14, a fan that circulates air along the circulation air passage, a heater that heats air supplied to the rotating drum 14, a heat exchanger that cools and dries air that has passed through the rotating drum 14, etc. The fan, the heater, and the heat exchanger are connected to the control unit 20 (see Fig. 3) and are drive-controlled by the control unit 20.

[0026] The operation display unit 19 (see Fig. 3) is a user interface of the washing system 100. The operation display unit 19 includes a display unit and an operation unit. The display unit displays various types of information in accordance with a control instruction from the control unit 20. For example, the display unit is a flat panel display such as a liquid crystal display. The operation unit inputs various types of information to the control unit 20 in accordance with a user operation. For example, the operation unit includes a hard key and a touch panel.

[0027] The control unit 20 (see Fig. 3) controls the washing system 100 in an integrated manner. As shown in Fig. 3, the control unit 20 includes a CPU 20A, a ROM 20B, and a RAM 20C. The CPU 20A is a processor that executes various arithmetic processes. The ROM 20B is a non-volatile storage device in which information such as a control program for causing the CPU 20A to execute various processes is stored in advance, in other words, is a computer-readable recording medium. The RAM 20C is a volatile or non-volatile storage device used as a temporary storage memory (work area) for various processes executed by the CPU 20A. The CPU 20A executes various control programs stored in advance in the ROM 20B. Thus, the CPU 20A controls the washing system 100 in an integrated manner.[Configuration of Water Circulation Device 2]

[0028] Next, a configuration of the water circulation device 2 will be described with reference to Figs. 1 and 3.

[0029] As shown in Fig. 1, the water circulation device 2 includes a tank 21, a first pump 22, a first water path 23, a second water path 24, a switching valve 25, a third water path 26, a second pump 27, a fourth water path 28, a filter 29, a fifth water path 30, and a sixth water path 31. The water circulation device 2 further includes an operation unit 32, a float sensor 33, and an optical sensor 34 shown in Fig. 3.

[0030] The tank 21 stores water to be supplied to the washing drum 13 (see Fig. 2) of the washing machine 1. The tank 21 also stores wastewater discharged from the washing drum 13 of the washing machine 1 in order to reuse the wastewater in the washing machine 1. The tank 21 is formed to have a size capable of storing an amount of water necessary for a washing operation by the washing machine 1. The tank 21 is arranged at a side portion, a lower portion, an upper portion, or an inside of the washing machine 1. For example, the tank 21 stores tap water.

[0031] Incidentally, when washing is repeatedly performed in the washing system 100 that reuses wastewater discharged from the washing drum 13, the amount of stored water in the tank 21 gradually decreases because water is taken away by clothes after washing. Therefore, in the washing system 100, it is necessary to replenish water to the tank 21 periodically.

[0032] In contrast, in the washing system 100, as described below, it is possible to reduce a work burden of a water replenishment operation to the tank 21.

[0033] Specifically, the washing system 100 includes a water supply unit 60 (see Fig. 1) that supplies water to the tank 21. The water supply unit 60 includes the second pump 27, the sixth water path 31, and the switching valve 25.

[0034] As shown in Fig. 1, the first pump 22 is provided at a bottom portion of the tank 21. The first pump 22 is a submersible pump including a motor. The first pump 22 is formed in a cylindrical shape having an upper end portion that is substantially dome-shaped. The first pump 22 includes an intake portion that sucks water in the tank 21, a filter portion that filters the sucked water, and a water delivery portion 22A (see Fig. 1) that sends water that has passed through the filter portion to the outside. The intake portion is provided at an outer peripheral portion of the bottom portion of the first pump 22. The water delivery portion 22A is formed to extend upward from an upper end portion of the first pump 22, and an extended end portion thereof is connected to the first water path 23. The first pump 22 causes water to flow from the tank 21 side toward the washing machine 1 side along a water supply path (see Fig. 1) from the inside of the tank 21 to the water inlet 11B of the washing machine 1 via the first pump 22 and the first water path 23. As shown in Fig. 3, the first pump 22 is connected to the control unit 20 and is drive-controlled by the control unit 20.

[0035] As shown in Fig. 1, the first water path 23 is a water path from the water delivery portion 22A of the first pump 22 to the water inlet 11B of the washing machine 1. The first water path 23 is formed of a tubular member such as a resin hose.

[0036] As shown in Fig. 1, the second water path 24 is a water path from the water outlet 11C of the washing machine 1 to the switching valve 25. The second water path 24 is formed of a tubular member such as a resin hose.

[0037] As shown in Fig. 1, the switching valve 25 is connected to the second water path 24, the third water path 26, and the sixth water path 31. The switching valve 25 is a three-way valve that switches a water path connected to the third water path 26 between the second water path 24 and the sixth water path 31. The switching valve 25 is a motor-operated valve or a solenoid valve that operates according to power supply. Note that the switching valve 25 may be configured by two two-way valves provided in the second water path 24 and the sixth water path 31, respectively. Further, the switching valve 25 may be a manual valve.

[0038] As shown in Fig. 1, the third water path 26 is a water path from the switching valve 25 to the second pump 27. The third water path 26 is formed of a tubular member such as a resin hose.

[0039] The second pump 27 causes water to flow from the washing machine 1 side toward the tank 21 side along a drain path (see Fig. 1) from the water outlet 11C of the washing machine 1 to the tank 21 via the second water path 24, the switching valve 25, the third water path 26, the second pump 27, the fourth water path 28, the filter 29, and the fifth water path 30. As shown in Fig. 3, the second pump 27 is connected to the control unit 20 and is drive-controlled by the control unit 20. The second pump 27 is an example of a preferred embodiment of a first pump of the present disclosure.

[0040] As shown in Fig. 1, the fourth water path 28 is a water path from the second pump 27 to the filter 29. The fourth water path 28 is formed of a tubular member such as a resin hose.

[0041] The filter 29 purifies water flowing along the drain path. For example, the filter 29 has a two-layer structure including a first layer configured by a nonwoven fabric filter and a second layer configured by an activated carbon filter. The first layer is arranged upstream of the second layer in a flow direction of water in the drain path. Note that the second layer may be a hollow fiber membrane filter, a ceramic filter, a reverse osmosis membrane filter, an ion exchange resin filter, or the like. Further, the filter 29 may have a single-layer structure or a multilayer structure of three or more layers. When the filter 29 has a multilayer structure of three or more layers, the filter 29 may include a plurality of filters different in type from each other. The filter 29 is an example of a preferred embodiment of a first filter of the present disclosure.

[0042] As shown in Fig. 1, the fifth water path 30 is a water path from the filter 29 to the tank 21. The fifth water path 30 is formed of a tubular member such as a resin hose. An end portion of the fifth water path 30 on the tank 21 side is arranged to open downward above a water surface of water stored in the tank 21.

[0043] The tank 21, the first pump 22, the first water path 23, the second water path 24, the switching valve 25, the third water path 26, the second pump 27, the fourth water path 28, the filter 29, and the fifth water path 30 constitute a circulation path portion 41 (see Fig. 1). The circulation path portion 41 forms a circulation path R1 (see Fig. 1) of water that passes through the tank 21 and the washing machine 1.

[0044] Specifically, the circulation path R1 is a path from the tank 21 to the tank 21 via the first pump 22 and the first water path 23, via the water supply path 16, the washing drum 13, and the drain path 17 in the washing machine 1, and further via the second water path 24, the switching valve 25, the third water path 26, the second pump 27, the fourth water path 28, the filter 29, and the fifth water path 30.

[0045] In the circulation path R1, water flows in a circulation direction D1 shown in Fig. 1 by the first pump 22 and the second pump 27. The second pump 27 is provided in an upstream-side portion of the circulation path R1 that is located downstream of the washing machine 1 in the circulation direction D1 and upstream of the tank 21 in the circulation direction D1, and causes water to flow in the circulation direction D1.

[0046] As shown in Fig. 1, the sixth water path 31 is a water path from an external water source 200 to the switching valve 25. The sixth water path 31 is formed of a tubular member such as a resin hose. The sixth water path 31 has a light transmissive property. Specifically, the sixth water path 31 is formed of a transparent resin material. The sixth water path 31 is connected to the upstream-side portion in the circulation path R1 and is connected to the external water source 200. Specifically, the sixth water path 31 connects, in the upstream-side portion, a first flow path extending from the washing machine 1 to the second pump 27 along the circulation path R1 and the external water source 200. The first flow path is constituted by the drain path 17 of the washing machine 1, the second water path 24, the switching valve 25, and the third water path 26. The sixth water path 31 is an example of a preferred embodiment of a first external water supply flow path of the present disclosure.

[0047] The water source 200 is used for replenishing water to the tank 21. For example, the water source 200 is a container such as a bucket filled with replenishment water. Note that the water source 200 may be a bathtub or a pool filled with water. Further, the water source 200 may be a river, a lake, a pond, or the like.

[0048] In the water circulation device 2, the switching valve 25 is provided at a connection portion between the upstream-side portion in the circulation path R1 and the sixth water path 31, and is switchable between a mode of connecting an upstream side and a downstream side relative to the connection portion and a mode of connecting the downstream side relative to the connection portion and the flow path. That is, the switching valve 25 switches a water supply source to the tank 21 between the washing drum 13 of the washing machine 1 and the water source 200.

[0049] Here, as shown in Fig. 1, the filter 29 is provided between the connection portion and the tank 21 in the circulation path R1. Thus, it is possible to purify water replenished from the water source 200 to the tank 21 before the water reaches the tank 21.

[0050] The operation unit 32 is provided on an outer surface portion of the tank 21. For example, the operation unit 32 is provided on a top surface portion or a side surface portion of the tank 21. The operation unit 32 includes an operation switch or an operation button operated by a user. As shown in Fig. 3, the operation unit 32 is connected to the control unit 20. The operation unit 32 inputs an operation acceptance signal to the control unit 20 in accordance with an operation by the user.

[0051] As shown in Fig. 1, the float sensor 33 is provided inside the tank 21. The float sensor 33 detects that a water level of the tank 21 is equal to or higher than a predetermined reference position. The reference position is set based on the water level of the tank 21 when the tank 21 stores water in a minimum amount necessary for a washing operation by the washing machine 1. As shown in Fig. 3, the float sensor 33 is connected to the control unit 20. The float sensor 33 inputs, to the control unit 20, a first detection signal indicating whether the water level of the tank 21 is equal to or higher than the reference position in accordance with an instruction from the control unit 20.

[0052] As shown in Fig. 1, the optical sensor 34 is provided in the sixth water path 31. For example, the optical sensor 34 is a transmission-type optical sensor including a light-emitting unit 34A (see Fig. 1) and a light-receiving unit 34B (see Fig. 1) that are provided to face each other with the transparent tubular sixth water path 31 interposed therebetween. The optical sensor 34 is used for detection of foreign matter contained in water supplied from the water source 200. Specifically, in the washing system 100, when light emitted from the light-emitting unit 34A is blocked before the light enters the light-receiving unit 34B, it is determined that the foreign matter is present. As shown in Fig. 3, the optical sensor 34 is connected to the control unit 20. The optical sensor 34 inputs, to the control unit 20, a second detection signal indicating whether the light emitted from the light-emitting unit 34A is blocked (whether the foreign matter is detected) in accordance with an instruction from the control unit 20.

[0053] In the washing system 100, when a blocking time of light emitted from the light-emitting unit 34A exceeds a predetermined time, it may be determined that the foreign matter is present. Thus, it is possible to exclude the small foreign matter from detection targets. Further, in the washing system 100, when a received light amount of the light emitted from the light-emitting unit 34A at the light-receiving unit 34B is equal to or less than a predetermined reference value, it may be determined that the foreign matter is present. The reference value is a value lower than a received light amount, at the light-receiving unit 34B, of light emitted from the light-emitting unit 34A when transparent water flows in the sixth water path 31. Thus, it is possible to detect the semitransparent foreign matter such as a fragment of a plastic bag. Further, it is also possible to detect a large amount of the minute foreign matter that makes water of the water source 200 turbid.[Configuration of Control Unit 20]

[0054] Next, a configuration of the control unit 20 will be described with reference to Figs. 1 and 3.

[0055] As shown in Fig. 3, the control unit 20 includes a drive control unit 51, a determination processing unit 52, and a detection processing unit 53.

[0056] Specifically, the ROM 20B of the control unit 20 stores in advance an operation control program for causing the control unit 20 to function as the above-described functional units. The CPU 20A of the control unit 20 functions as the above-described functional units by reading the operation control program from the ROM 20B and executing the operation control program.

[0057] Note that some or all of the functional units included in the control unit 20 may be constituted of an electronic circuit. Further, the operation control program may be a program for causing a plurality of processors to function as the respective functional units shown in Fig. 3.

[0058] The determination processing unit 52 determines whether the water level of the tank 21 is equal to or higher than the reference position.

[0059] For example, the determination processing unit 52 determines whether the water level of the tank 21 is equal to or higher than the reference position by using the float sensor 33. Note that the determination processing unit 52 may determine whether the water level of the tank 21 is equal to or higher than the reference position by using a water level sensor different from the float sensor 33.

[0060] The drive control unit 51, when a predetermined specific operation is accepted, switches the water supply source to the tank 21 from the washing machine 1 to the water source 200 by using the switching valve 25, and drives the second pump 27.

[0061] For example, the specific operation is an operation on the operation unit 32. When the operation acceptance signal is input from the operation unit 32, the drive control unit 51 switches the water supply source to the tank 21 from the washing drum 13 of the washing machine 1 to the water source 200 by using the switching valve 25, and drives the second pump 27. Note that the specific operation may be a predetermined operation on the operation display unit 19 of the washing machine 1.

[0062] The drive control unit 51, when a predetermined stop condition is satisfied after acceptance of the specific operation, stops driving of the second pump 27 and switches the water supply source to the tank 21 from the water source 200 to the washing machine 1 by using the switching valve 25.

[0063] For example, the stop condition is that the determination processing unit 52 determines that the water level of the tank 21 is equal to or higher than the reference position. Note that the stop condition may be that a predetermined replenishment period has elapsed since acceptance of the specific operation. For example, the replenishment period may be set based on a time until a replenished water amount to the tank 21 from a start of driving of the second pump 27 reaches a minimum amount of water necessary for a washing operation. Further, the stop condition may be a condition specified by a user operation on the operation display unit 19 of the washing machine 1 among the above two conditions. Further, the stop condition may be acceptance of the specific operation again.

[0064] The detection processing unit 53 detects the foreign matter contained in water supplied from the water source 200.

[0065] Specifically, the detection processing unit 53 detects the foreign matter by using the optical sensor 34. Note that the detection processing unit 53 may detect the foreign matter by using a camera capable of capturing an image of the sixth water path 31 from outside the sixth water path 31.

[0066] Here, when the foreign matter is detected by the detection processing unit 53, the drive control unit 51 stops driving of the second pump 27 regardless of whether the stop condition is satisfied. Thus, it is possible to suppress the foreign matter from being mixed into the second pump 27 and causing the second pump 27 to fail. Further, it is possible to suppress the foreign matter from being mixed into the filter 29 and causing the filter 29 to be damaged.[Water Replenishment Process]

[0067] An example of a procedure of a water replenishment process executed by the control unit 20 in the washing system 100 will be described below with reference to Fig. 4. Here, steps S11, S12, ... indicate numbers of processing procedures (steps) executed by the control unit 20.<Step S11>

[0068] First, in step S11, the control unit 20 determines whether the specific operation is accepted.

[0069] Specifically, when the operation acceptance signal is input from the operation unit 32, the control unit 20 determines that the specific operation is accepted.

[0070] Here, when the control unit 20 determines that the specific operation is accepted (Yes side in S11), the control unit 20 shifts the process to step S12. If the specific operation is not accepted (No side in S11), the control unit 20 waits for acceptance of the specific operation in step S11.<Step S12>

[0071] In step S12, the control unit 20 switches the water supply source to the tank 21 from the washing drum 13 of the washing machine 1 to the water source 200 by using the switching valve 25.<Step S13>

[0072] In step S13, the control unit 20 starts driving of the second pump 27. Here, the processing of step S12 and step S13 is executed by the drive control unit 51 of the control unit 20.<Step S14>

[0073] In step S14, the control unit 20 determines whether the foreign matter is detected.

[0074] Specifically, the control unit 20 causes the optical sensor 34 to output the second detection signal. Then, when the second detection signal indicating detection of the foreign matter is output from the optical sensor 34, the control unit 20 determines that the foreign matter is detected. Here, the processing of detecting the foreign matter is executed by the detection processing unit 53 of the control unit 20.

[0075] Here, when the control unit 20 determines that the foreign matter is detected (Yes side in S14), the control unit 20 shifts the process to step S15. If the foreign matter is not detected (No side in S14), the control unit 20 shifts the process to step S16.<Step S15>

[0076] In step S15, the control unit 20 executes an emergency stop process to be described later.<Step S16>

[0077] In step S16, the control unit 20 determines whether the stop condition is satisfied.

[0078] Specifically, the control unit 20 causes the float sensor 33 to output the first detection signal at a predetermined cycle. Then, when the first detection signal indicating that the water level of the tank 21 is equal to or higher than the reference position is output from the float sensor 33, the control unit 20 determines that the stop condition is satisfied. The cycle is, for example, a cycle arbitrarily set in a range between 0.1 seconds and 10 seconds. Here, the processing of determining whether the water level of the tank 21 is equal to or higher than the reference position is executed by the determination processing unit 52 of the control unit 20.

[0079] Here, when the control unit 20 determines that the stop condition is satisfied (Yes side in S16), the control unit 20 shifts the process to step S17. If the stop condition is not satisfied (No side in S16), the control unit 20 shifts the process to step S14.<Step S17>

[0080] In step S17, the control unit 20 stops driving of the second pump 27.<Step S18>

[0081] In step S18, the control unit 20 switches the water supply source to the tank 21 from the water source 200 to the washing drum 13 of the washing machine 1 by using the switching valve 25. Here, the processing of step S17 and step S18 is executed by the drive control unit 51 of the control unit 20.[Emergency Stop Process]

[0082] Next, an example of a procedure of the emergency stop process executed in step S15 of the water replenishment process will be described with reference to Fig. 5.<Step S21>

[0083] First, in step S21, the control unit 20 stops driving of the second pump 27.

[0084] Here, the processing of step S21 is executed by the drive control unit 51 of the control unit 20.<Step S22>

[0085] In step S22, the control unit 20 notifies that the foreign matter is detected.

[0086] For example, the control unit 20 causes the operation display unit 19 of the washing machine 1 to display a message including that replenishment of water to the tank 21 is stopped because the foreign matter is detected in the sixth water path 31, that it is necessary to change the water source 200, and that it is possible to restart replenishment of water to the tank 21 by operating the operation unit 32 after changing the water source 200. Note that the control unit 20 may sound a predetermined warning sound instead of displaying the message or together with displaying the message.<Step S23>

[0087] In step S23, the control unit 20 determines whether the specific operation is accepted.

[0088] Here, when the control unit 20 determines that the specific operation is accepted (Yes side in S23), the control unit 20 shifts the process to step S24. If the specific operation is not accepted (No side in S23), the control unit 20 waits for acceptance of the specific operation in step S23.<Step S24>

[0089] In step S24, the control unit 20 restarts driving of the second pump 27.

[0090] As described above, the washing system 100 includes the sixth water path 31 that connects the first flow path extending from the washing drum 13 of the washing machine 1 to the second pump 27 along the circulation path R1 and the external water source 200, and the switching valve 25 that switches the water supply source to the tank 21 between the washing drum 13 and the water source 200. Thus, it is possible to replenish water of the water source 200 to the tank 21 by using the second pump 27. Therefore, in the washing system 100, it is possible to reduce a work burden of a water replenishment operation to the tank 21.

[0091] Further, the washing system 100 includes the drive control unit 51 that, when the specific operation is accepted, switches the water supply source to the tank 21 from the washing drum 13 to the water source 200 by using the switching valve 25 and drives the second pump 27. Thus, compared with a configuration in which an operation for switching a state of the switching valve 25 and an operation for driving the second pump 27 are individually required, it is possible to reduce the number of times a user operates the system to replenish water of the water source 200 to the tank 21.

[0092] Further, in the washing system 100, when the stop condition is satisfied, driving of the second pump 27 is stopped, and the switching valve 25 is used to switch the water supply source to the tank 21 from the water source 200 to the washing drum 13. Thus, compared with a configuration in which, when the stop condition is satisfied, driving of the second pump 27 is stopped but switching of the water supply source to the tank 21 is not performed, it is possible to avoid forgetting by the user to switch the water supply source to the tank 21.

[0093] Further, in the washing system 100, when the determination processing unit 52 determines that the water level of the tank 21 is equal to or higher than the reference position, it is determined that the stop condition is satisfied. Thus, it is possible to automatically stop replenishment of water to the tank 21 at a timing when a predetermined amount of water has accumulated in the tank 21.[Modifications]

[0094] Note that the drive control unit 51, the determination processing unit 52, and the detection processing unit 53 may be provided in the water circulation device 2 instead of in the washing machine 1. That is, the water circulation device 2 may include a control unit that functions as the drive control unit 51, the determination processing unit 52, and the detection processing unit 53.

[0095] The filter 29 may be provided downstream of the switching valve 25 in the circulation direction D1 and upstream of the second pump 27 in the circulation direction D1 in the circulation path R1. Further, the filter 29 may be provided downstream of the tank 21 in the circulation direction D1 and upstream of the washing machine 1 in the circulation direction D1 in the circulation path R1.

[0096] Further, the water stored in the tank 21 is not limited to tap water, and may be rainwater, river water, lake water, or pond water. For example, when the washing system 100 is used in a place where tap water cannot be used, such as a disaster-affected area, rainwater, river water, lake water, or pond water may be stored in the tank 21. Thus, it is possible to cleanly wash laundry even in a place where tap water cannot be used.

[0097] Further, the washing machine 1 is not limited to a so-called drum type washing machine, and may be a so-called vertical type washing machine.

[0098] Further, the washing system 100 need not include the ion water supply unit 16B. That is, the washing system 100 may wash (water-wash) laundry by using neutral water.

[0099] Further, the water circulation device 2 may be used in a system different from the washing system, such as a bath system including a bath apparatus.

[0100] Further, the washing system 100 may include a neutralization unit. The neutralization unit neutralizes alkaline ion water used for washing by supplying a predetermined amount of acidic water to wastewater. For example, the neutralization unit is connected to the upstream-side portion in the circulation path R1. For example, the neutralization unit includes an acidic water storage unit, an acidic water supply path, and an acidic water supply pump. The acidic water storage unit stores acidic water having a pH value of 4.0 or less. The acidic water supply path is a water path of acidic water from the acidic water storage unit to a confluence portion with the upstream-side portion. The acidic water supply pump is provided in the acidic water supply path and causes acidic water to flow along the acidic water supply path from the acidic water storage unit side toward the upstream-side portion side. The acidic water supply pump is connected to the control unit 20 (see Fig. 3) and is drive-controlled by the control unit 20. For example, when water used for washing is returned to the tank 21 (see Fig. 1) of the water circulation device 2, the control unit 20 drives the acidic water supply pump to supply, into the upstream-side portion, an amount of the acidic water that makes it possible to set the pH value of water in the tank 21 to about 7.0. Thus, water in the tank 21 can be maintained to be neutral.[Second Embodiment]

[0101] Next, a configuration of the washing system 100 according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure will be described with reference to Figs. 6 and 7.

[0102] As shown in Figs. 6 and 7, in the washing system 100 according to the second embodiment, the ion water supply unit 16B is provided outside the washing machine 1.

[0103] Further, as shown in Fig. 6, the washing system 100 according to the second embodiment includes a water supply unit 70 instead of the water supply unit 60 (see Fig. 1). Specifically, the washing system 100 according to the second embodiment includes a seventh water path 71, a third pump 72, and a filter 73 shown in Fig. 6 instead of the sixth water path 31 and the switching valve 25 shown in Fig. 1.

[0104] Further, as shown in Fig. 6, in the washing system 100 according to the second embodiment, an arrangement position of the optical sensor 34 is different from that in the first embodiment.

[0105] Further, in the washing system 100 according to the second embodiment, processing of the drive control unit 51 (see Fig. 3) is different from that in the first embodiment.

[0106] Note that other configurations are common between the first embodiment and the second embodiment. In the following, only configurations different from those in the first embodiment among the configurations of the second embodiment will be described.

[0107] The ion water supply unit 16B shown in Fig. 6 generates alkaline ion water for washing by supplying a predetermined amount of a stock solution of alkaline ion water to the tank 21. As shown in Fig. 6, the ion water supply unit 16B includes a stock solution storage unit 16B1, a stock solution supply path 16B2, and a stock solution supply pump 16B3. The stock solution storage unit 16B1 stores the stock solution of alkaline ion water. The stock solution supply path 16B2 is a water path of the stock solution of alkaline ion water from the stock solution storage unit 16B1 to the tank 21. The stock solution supply pump 16B3 is provided in the stock solution supply path 16B2 and causes the stock solution of alkaline ion water to flow along the stock solution supply path 16B2 from the stock solution storage unit 16B1 side toward the tank 21 side. The stock solution supply pump 16B3 is connected to the control unit 20 (see Fig. 3) and is drive-controlled by the control unit 20. For example, when water discharged from the washing machine 1 is supplied to the tank 21, the control unit 20 drives the stock solution supply pump 16B3 to supply, into the tank 21, an amount of the stock solution of alkaline ion water that makes it possible to set a pH value of water to be stored in the tank 21 to a predetermined value (for example, about 11.0). For example, the control unit 20 controls a supplied amount of the stock solution of alkaline ion water to be supplied to the tank 21 by using a pH sensor which is not shown and is capable of detecting the pH value of water in the tank 21. Further, when water is supplied to the tank 21 by the water supply unit 70, the control unit 20 drives the stock solution supply pump 16B3 to supply the stock solution of alkaline ion water into the tank 21.

[0108] The water supply unit 70 supplies water to the tank 21. The water supply unit 70 includes the seventh water path 71, the third pump 72, and the filter 73.

[0109] As shown in Fig. 6, the seventh water path 71 is a water path from the external water source 200 to the tank 21. The seventh water path 71 is formed of a tubular member such as a resin hose. The seventh water path 71 has a light transmissive property. Specifically, the seventh water path 71 is formed of a transparent resin material. The seventh water path 71 is connected to the external water source 200 and is connected to the tank 21. The seventh water path 71 is an example of a preferred embodiment of a second external water supply flow path of the present disclosure.

[0110] As shown in Fig. 6, the third pump 72 is provided at one end of the seventh water path 71 on the water source 200 side. The third pump 72 is a submersible pump including a motor. The third pump 72 is formed in a cylindrical shape having an upper end portion that is substantially dome-shaped. The third pump 72 includes an intake portion that sucks water in the water source 200 and a water delivery portion that sends water sucked by the intake portion to the outside. The intake portion is provided at an outer peripheral portion of the bottom portion of the third pump 72. The water delivery portion is formed to extend upward from an upper end portion of the third pump 72, and an extended end portion thereof is connected to one end of the seventh water path 71. The third pump 72 causes water to flow from the water source 200 side toward the tank 21 side along the seventh water path 71. The third pump 72 is connected to the control unit 20 and is drive-controlled by the control unit 20. The third pump 72 is an example of a preferred embodiment of a second pump of the present disclosure.

[0111] The filter 73 is provided at the intake portion of the third pump 72. The filter 73 filters water sucked into the intake portion. For example, the filter 73 is constituted of a nonwoven fabric. The filter 73 is an example of a preferred embodiment of a second filter of the present disclosure. Note that the filter 73 may be the same as the filter 29.

[0112] As shown in Fig. 6, the optical sensor 34 is provided in the seventh water path 71. The optical sensor 34 is used for detection of foreign matter contained in water supplied from the water source 200.

[0113] When the specific operation is accepted, the drive control unit 51 drives the third pump 72.

[0114] In the second embodiment, water supply to the tank 21 is executed by using the third pump 72 instead of the second pump 27. Therefore, in the second embodiment, it is possible to execute water supply to the tank 21 regardless of an operating state of the washing machine 1.

[0115] Note that the drive control unit 51 may automatically drive the third pump 72 when the determination processing unit 52 determines that the water level of the tank 21 is lower than the reference position. In this case, the drive control unit 51 may drive the third pump 72 such that a predetermined amount of water is supplied to the tank 21. In other words, the drive control unit 51 may control driving of the third pump 72 based on a determination result by the determination processing unit 52 such that the water level of the tank 21 falls within a predetermined range including the reference position.

[0116] As described above, in the washing system 100 according to the second embodiment, water supply to the tank 21 is executed by the water supply unit 70. Therefore, it is possible to reduce a work burden of a water replenishment operation to the tank 21 as compared with a case in which a user of the washing system 100 supplies water drawn with a bucket or the like to the tank 21.[Supplementary Notes on Invention]

[0117] Hereinafter, an outline of the invention extracted from the above-described embodiments will be additionally described. Note that the configurations and the processing functions described in the following supplementary notes may be combined or selected in any way.<Supplementary Note 1>

[0118] A water circulation device includes: a circulation path portion that forms a circulation path of water that passes through a washing machine and a tank; and a water supply unit configured to supply water to the tank.<Supplementary Note 2>

[0119] The water circulation device according to Supplementary Note 1, in which the water supply unit includes: a first pump provided in an upstream-side portion, which is located downstream of the washing machine in a circulation direction of the water and upstream of the tank in the circulation direction, of the circulation path, and configured to cause the water to flow in the circulation direction; a first external water supply flow path connected to the upstream-side portion and connected to a water source which is external; and a valve provided at a connection portion between the upstream-side portion and the first external water supply flow path, the valve being switchable between a mode of connecting an upstream side and a downstream side relative to the connection portion and a mode of connecting the downstream side relative to the connection portion and the first external water supply flow path.<Supplementary Note 3>

[0120] The water circulation device according to Supplementary Note 2, further including a first filter provided between the connection portion and the tank in the circulation path.<Supplementary Note 4>

[0121] The water circulation device according to Supplementary Note 2 or 3, in which the valve operates in accordance with power supply, the water circulation device further including: a drive control unit configured to switch a water supply source to the tank from the washing machine to the water source by using the valve and drive the first pump when a specific operation which is predetermined is accepted.<Supplementary Note 5>

[0122] The water circulation device according to Supplementary Note 4, in which the drive control unit, when a stop condition which is predetermined is satisfied after acceptance of the specific operation, stops driving of the first pump and switches the water supply source to the tank from the water source to the washing machine by using the valve.<Supplementary Note 6>

[0123] The water circulation device according to Supplementary Note 5, further including: a determination processing unit configured to determine whether a water level of the tank is equal to or higher than a reference position which is predetermined, in which the stop condition includes that the determination processing unit determines that the water level of the tank is equal to or higher than the reference position.<Supplementary Note 7>

[0124] The water circulation device according to Supplementary Note 5 or 6, in which the stop condition includes that a replenishment period which is predetermined has elapsed since acceptance of the specific operation.<Supplementary Note 8>

[0125] The water circulation device according to any one of Supplementary Notes 5 to 7, further including: a detection processing unit configured to detect foreign matter contained in the water supplied from the water source, in which the drive control unit, when the foreign matter is detected by the detection processing unit, stops driving of the first pump regardless of whether the stop condition is satisfied.<Supplementary Note 9>

[0126] The water circulation device according to Supplementary Note 1, in which the water supply unit includes: a second external water supply flow path connected to the tank and connected to a water source which is external; and a second pump provided in the second external water supply flow path and configured to cause the water to flow toward the tank.<Supplementary Note 10>

[0127] The water circulation device according to Supplementary Note 9, further including a second filter provided at an intake portion of the second pump.<Supplementary Note 11>

[0128] A washing system includes: the water circulation device according to any one of Supplementary Notes 1 to 10; and the washing machine.

Claims

1. A water circulation device comprising: a circulation path portion that forms a circulation path of water that passes through a washing machine and a tank; and a water supply unit configured to supply water to the tank.

2. The water circulation device according to claim 1, wherein the water supply unit includes: a first pump provided in an upstream-side portion, which is located downstream of the washing machine in a circulation direction of the water and upstream of the tank in the circulation direction, of the circulation path, and configured to cause the water to flow in the circulation direction; a first external water supply flow path connected to the upstream-side portion and connected to a water source which is external; and a valve provided at a connection portion between the upstream-side portion and the first external water supply flow path, the valve being switchable between a mode of connecting an upstream side and a downstream side relative to the connection portion and a mode of connecting the downstream side relative to the connection portion and the first external water supply flow path.

3. The water circulation device according to claim 2, further comprising first filter provided between the connection portion and the tank in the circulation path.

4. The water circulation device according to claim 2, wherein the valve operates in accordance with power supply, the water circulation device further comprising a drive control unit configured to switch a water supply source to the tank from the washing machine to the water source by using the valve and drive the first pump when a specific operation which is predetermined is accepted.

5. The water circulation device according to claim 4, wherein the drive control unit, when a stop condition which is predetermined is satisfied after acceptance of the specific operation, stops driving of the first pump and switches the water supply source to the tank from the water source to the washing machine by using the valve.

6. The water circulation device according to claim 5, further comprising a determination processing unit configured to determine whether a water level of the tank is equal to or higher than a reference position which is predetermined, wherein the stop condition includes that the determination processing unit determines that the water level of the tank is equal to or higher than the reference position.

7. The water circulation device according to claim 5 or 6, wherein the stop condition includes that a replenishment period which is predetermined has elapsed since acceptance of the specific operation.

8. The water circulation device according to claim 5, further comprising a detection processing unit configured to detect foreign matter contained in the water supplied from the water source, wherein the drive control unit, when the foreign matter is detected by the detection processing unit, stops driving of the first pump regardless of whether the stop condition is satisfied.

9. The water circulation device according to claim 1, wherein the water supply unit includes: a second external water supply flow path connected to the tank and connected to a water source which is external; and a second pump provided in the second external water supply flow path and configured to cause the water to flow toward the tank.

10. The water circulation device according to claim 9, further comprising a second filter provided at an intake portion of the second pump.

11. A washing system comprising: the water circulation device according to claim 1; and the washing machine.

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