Washing and drying machine

Abstract

To provide a washing and drying machine capable of favorably suppressing heat radiation to the outside during drying.SOLUTION: A washing and drying machine 1 includes: an outer tub 20 arranged in a housing 10; a drum 23 which is rotatably arranged in the outer tub 20, and in which laundry is stored; a drying device 100 which has a blower fan 120, a housing 113 in which wind generated by the blower fan 120 flows, and a heater 132 arranged in the housing 113, and which supplies wind heated by the heater 132 to the drum 23; a top surface tank 200 which is arranged above the outer tub 20 and the drying device 100 in the housing 10, and which can store water; a water supply part 50 for supplying water to the top surface tank 200; and a control part for controlling the operation of the drying device 100 and the water supply part 50. The control part performs water supply to the top surface tank 200 by the water supply part 50 so that the top surface tank 200 comes into a water storage state during drying by the drying device 100.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a washing and drying machine. [Background technology]

[0002] Patent document 1 describes a washer-dryer that includes an outer tub provided within a housing, a drum rotatably arranged within the outer tub, and a drying device that includes an air duct that directs air to the laundry in the drum, a fan, and a heater, with a water storage tank located at the bottom of the housing.

[0003] In the above-mentioned washer / dryer, in the main washing process, the water containing detergent in the outer tub is stored in the water storage tank. The water containing detergent in the outer tub and the water storage tank is pumped up by a circulation pump and discharged into the drum from a discharge port provided in the outer tub. By storing water in the water storage tank, the amount of water used can be secured without raising the water level in the outer tub, and the circulation flow rate can be maintained stably. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] JP 2015-62509 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] Conventionally, a washer-dryer does not have a heat insulating material in the housing, and heat generated from a heat source such as a heater during drying operation is easily released to the outside of the housing, i.e., to the installation space in which the washer-dryer is installed. If a large amount of laundry is to be dried, the drying operation takes a long time, and the installation space is likely to become hot. In particular, when there is a lot of humidity in the installation space, such as during the rainy season, the relative humidity increases as the outside temperature increases due to heat release, making the environment uncomfortable and prone to mold and mildew.

[0006] In the washer-dryer of the above-mentioned Patent Document 1, water is not stored in the water tank during the drying operation. Even if water is stored in the water tank during the drying operation, the heat source such as the heater is located above the water tank, and the heat from the heat source tends to rise and accumulate in the upper part of the housing, so the effect of suppressing the heat dissipation to the outside of the housing due to the heat absorption by the water in the water tank cannot be expected.

[0007] The present invention has been made in view of the above-mentioned problems, and has an object to provide a washing / drying machine that can effectively suppress heat radiation to the outside during drying. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] A washer / dryer according to a first aspect of the present invention includes an outer tub arranged in a housing, an inner tub rotatably arranged in the outer tub and accommodating laundry, a blower fan, an air passage through which air generated by the blower fan flows, and a heater arranged in the air passage, a drying device that supplies air heated by the heater into the drum, a first tank that is arranged in the housing above the outer tub and the drying device and capable of storing water, a water supply unit that supplies water into the first tank, and a control unit that controls the operation of the drying device and the water supply unit. Here, the control unit controls the water supply unit to supply water into the first tank so that the first tank is in a water-storing state during drying by the drying device.

[0009] According to the washer / dryer of this aspect, the heat released from the outer tub and the drying device and trapped near the top surface of the housing is absorbed by the water in the first tank, so that the heat dissipation to the outside of the housing can be suppressed, and thus the temperature rise in the installation space of the washer / dryer can be suppressed.

[0010] The washer / dryer according to this aspect may further include a second tank capable of storing water, the second tank being disposed in the housing so as to be in contact with the air passage. In this case, the water supply unit may be capable of supplying water to the second tank. The control unit may be configured to cause the water supply unit to supply water to the second tank so that the second tank is in a water-stored state during the drying process.

[0011] According to the above configuration, the heat transmitted from the heater to the air passage is absorbed by the water in the second tank, thereby further suppressing the radiation of heat to the outside of the housing during drying.

[0012] In the case of the above configuration, a configuration may be adopted in which a first water supply passage through which water discharged from the first tank flows into the second tank.

[0013] With this configuration, water from the water supply unit can be supplied to the second tank through the first tank, and the first tank can also be used as a water supply path to the second tank.

[0014] Furthermore, when the heater and the second tank are disposed above the outer tank, the first water supply passage can be shortened.

[0015] The washer / dryer according to this aspect may further include an inlet provided in the housing through which laundry is inserted, and an openable / closable door covering the inlet. In this case, the door may be configured to include a third tank capable of storing water. The water supply unit may also be capable of supplying water to the third tank. The control unit may be configured to cause the water supply unit to supply water to the third tank so that the third tank is in a water-stored state during the drying process.

[0016] According to the above-mentioned configuration, the temperature rise of the door is suppressed, and the radiation of heat from the door to the outside of the housing is suppressed, thereby further suppressing the radiation of heat to the outside of the housing during drying.

[0017] In the case of the above configuration, a configuration may be adopted in which a second water supply passage through which water discharged from the first tank flows into the third tank.

[0018] With this configuration, water from the water supply unit can be supplied to the third tank through the first tank, and the first tank can also be used as a water supply path to the third tank.

[0019] In the washer / dryer of this aspect, a configuration may be adopted which further includes a fourth tank disposed at the bottom of the housing in which water drained from the first tank is stored, and a supply unit which supplies water from the fourth tank to the outer tub.

[0020] According to the above configuration, the water supplied to the first tank can be reused in the next washing operation.

[0021] A washer / dryer according to a second aspect of the present invention includes an outer tub arranged in a housing, an inner tub rotatably arranged in the outer tub and accommodating laundry, a blower fan, an air passage through which air generated by the blower fan flows, and a heater arranged in the air passage, a drying device that supplies air heated by the heater into the drum, a tank capable of storing water arranged in the housing so as to be in contact with the air passage, a water supply unit that supplies water into the tank, and a control unit that controls the operation of the drying device and the water supply unit. Here, the control unit controls the water supply unit to supply water into the tank so that the tank is filled with water during drying by the drying device.

[0022] According to the washer / dryer of this aspect, the heat transmitted from the heater to the air passage is absorbed by the water in the tank, thereby making it possible to suppress the radiation of heat to the outside of the housing during drying. Effect of the Invention

[0023] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a washer / dryer that can effectively suppress heat radiation to the outside during drying.

[0024] The effects and significance of the present invention will become clearer from the following description of the embodiments. However, the following embodiment is merely an example of how the present invention can be put into practice, and the present invention is not limited to the embodiment described below. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0025] [Figure 1]FIG. 1 is a side cross-sectional view showing a configuration of a washer / dryer according to an embodiment. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a front cross-sectional view showing the configuration of the washer / dryer according to the embodiment. [Diagram 3] 3(a) and (b) are a front cross-sectional view and a side cross-sectional view, respectively, of the air-path tank according to the embodiment. [Figure 4] 4(a) and (b) are diagrams showing an example of installation of a top tank in a housing according to an embodiment. [Diagram 5] FIG. 5 is a side cross-sectional view of a main part of a washer / dryer showing the periphery of a door according to an embodiment. [Figure 6] 6(a) and (b) are respectively a front view and a rear view of a door according to an embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a block diagram showing a configuration of a washer / dryer according to an embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a flowchart illustrating an external heat radiation suppression process executed by a control unit according to the embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing a water storage control process executed by a control unit according to the embodiment. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing a process for controlling water supply into the outer tub, which is executed by the control unit in the washing process, according to the embodiment. [Figure 11] 11(a) to (d) are diagrams for explaining the configuration of the air-path tank according to the modified example. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0026] Hereinafter, an embodiment of a washer / dryer of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0027] Fig. 1 is a side cross-sectional view showing the configuration of the washer-dryer 1. Fig. 2 is a front cross-sectional view showing the configuration of the washer-dryer 1. In Fig. 1, the washer-dryer 1 is cut at a central position, and in Fig. 2, the washer-dryer 1 is cut at a position immediately behind the front part 10b of the housing 10. Figs. 3(a) and (b) are a front cross-sectional view and a side cross-sectional view, respectively, of the air-path tank 300.

[0028] The washer / dryer 1 of this embodiment is a so-called drum-type washer / dryer. The washer / dryer 1 includes a substantially rectangular parallelepiped housing 10. A circular input port 11 through which laundry is input is formed in the front of the housing 10. The input port 11 is covered by a door 12 that can be opened and closed freely.

[0029] An outer tub 20 is disposed within the housing 10. The outer tub 20 is elastically supported by a plurality of dampers 21 and a plurality of springs 22. A drum 23 for accommodating laundry is rotatably disposed within the outer tub 20. The drum 23 rotates about a horizontal axis. The drum 23 may rotate about a rotation axis that is inclined relative to the horizontal direction.

[0030] Drum 23 has a circular opening 23a on the front surface. Laundry is put into and taken out of drum 23 through opening 23a. Drum 23 corresponds to the "inner tub" of the present invention.

[0031] The outer tub 20 has a circular opening 20a in front of the opening 23a of the drum 23. The peripheral edge of the opening 20a of the outer tub 20 and the peripheral edge of the input port 11 of the housing 10 are connected by an annular door packing 24 made of an elastic material. The peripheral surface of the closed door 12 comes into contact with the door packing 24, and the gap between the input port 11 and the door 12 is water-sealed.

[0032] A large number of dewatering holes 23b are formed on the inner peripheral surface of the drum 23. In addition, three baffles 25 each having a substantially triangular prism shape are provided on the inner peripheral surface of the drum 23 at equal intervals in the circumferential direction.

[0033] A drive motor 30 is disposed behind the outer tub 20 to generate torque for rotating the drum 23. The drive motor 30 is, for example, an outer rotor type DC brushless motor. During the washing, rinsing and drying processes, the drive motor 30 rotates the drum 23 at a rotation speed at which the centrifugal force acting on the laundry in the drum 23 is smaller than gravity and the laundry tumbles. On the other hand, during the spin-drying process, the drive motor 30 rotates the drum 23 at a rotation speed at which the centrifugal force acting on the laundry in the drum 23 is much larger than gravity and the laundry sticks to the inner circumferential surface of the drum 23.

[0034] A drain outlet 20b is formed at the bottom of the outer tub 20. A drain valve 41 that opens and closes the drain outlet 20b is provided at the drain outlet 20b. The drain valve 41 includes, for example, a valve and a torque motor that opens and closes the valve. The drain valve 41 is connected to a drain hose 42. When the drain valve 41 is opened, water stored in the outer tub 20 is discharged outside the machine through the drain outlet 20b and the drain hose 42. A drain filter 43 that captures foreign matter such as lint is disposed midway along the drain hose 42.

[0035] A water supply unit 50 is disposed at the upper part of the housing 10. The water supply unit 50 includes a tank water supply valve 51, a tank water supply valve 52, and a tank water supply passage 53. One end of the tank water supply passage 53 is connected to the tank water supply valve 51, and the other end is connected to a water inlet 20c provided on the back surface of the outer tank 20. When the tank water supply valve 51 is opened, water from the water faucet flows through the tank water supply passage 53 and is supplied into the outer tank 20 from the water inlet 20c.

[0036] The water supply unit 50 may include an automatic dispenser that automatically dispenses liquid detergent or liquid fabric softener into the outer tub 20. The automatic dispenser includes, for example, a liquid agent tank that stores the liquid detergent or liquid fabric softener, and a pump that sends the liquid detergent or liquid fabric softener in the liquid agent tank into the tub water supply passage 53. In this case, the liquid detergent or liquid fabric softener discharged into the tub water supply passage 53 is sent into the outer tub 20 by the water flowing through the tub water supply passage 53.

[0037] A drying device 100 that dries the laundry in the drum 23 in the drying process is disposed in an upper portion of the housing 10. The drying device 100 includes a circulation air passage 110, a blower fan 120, a cooler 131, and a heater 132.

[0038] The circulating air passage 110 is connected to the outer tub 20, and includes an outlet duct 111, a fan casing 112 in which the blower fan 120 is disposed, a housing 113 in which the cooler 131 and the heater 132 are disposed, and an inlet duct 114. The circulating air passage 110 is disposed above the outer tub 20 within the housing 10.

[0039] One end of the outlet duct 111 is connected to an exhaust port 20d provided on the rear surface of the outer tub 20, and the other end is connected to an intake port of the fan casing 112. The exhaust port 20d may be provided on the rear peripheral surface of the outer tub 20.

[0040] The housing 113 has a generally rectangular box shape that is long in the front-rear direction, and is disposed above the outer tub 20 and in front of the fan casing 112. The rear end of the housing 113 is connected to the outlet of the fan casing 112. Wind generated by the blower fan 120 flows inside the housing 113. The housing 113 corresponds to the air passage of the present invention.

[0041] The introduction duct 114 extends from the front end of the housing 113 and is connected to a discharge port 20e provided in the front upper part of the door packing 24. The discharge port 20e is directed toward the inside of the drum 23.

[0042] The blower fan 120 is, for example, a centrifugal fan, and includes a fan 121 housed in a fan casing 112, and a fan motor 122 for rotating the fan 121. The blower fan 120 circulates air (wind) between the outer tub 20 and the circulating air passage 110. The air discharged from the outer tub 20 through the exhaust port 20d flows through the circulating air passage 110 in the order of the outlet duct 111, the fan casing 112, the housing 113, and the inlet duct 114, and is discharged from the discharge port 20e into the outer tub 20, i.e., into the drum 23.

[0043] The cooler 131 and the heater 132 are heat exchangers, and are respectively disposed on the upstream side and the downstream side in the housing 113. The cooler 131 and the heater 132 are included in a heat pump device. The heat pump device includes a compressor 133, a pressure reducer, and the like, which configure a cold / hot circuit together with the cooler 131 and the heater 132. The compressor 133 is disposed at the bottom in the housing 10.

[0044] By the operation of compressor 133, a low-temperature refrigerant flows inside cooler 131, and a high-temperature refrigerant flows inside heater 132. Cooler 131 cools the air flowing in circulating air passage 110 by heat exchange with the low-temperature refrigerant, thereby dehumidifying the air. Heater 132 heats the dehumidified air flowing in circulating air passage 110 by heat exchange with the high-temperature refrigerant.

[0045] The cooler 131 may be a water-cooled heat exchanger or the like, and the heater 132 may be a semiconductor heater or the like.

[0046] The drying device 100 includes a first temperature sensor 141 and a second temperature sensor 142. The first temperature sensor 141 is disposed in a position upstream of the blower fan 120 in the circulating air passage 110, i.e., in the outlet duct 111, and detects the temperature of the air (wind) discharged from the outer tub 20 as the outlet temperature. The second temperature sensor 142 is disposed in a position downstream of the heater 132 in the circulating air passage 110, i.e., in the inlet duct 114, and detects the temperature of the air (wind) introduced into the outer tub 20 after passing through the heater 132 as the inlet temperature. The outlet temperature is approximate to the temperature in the outer tub 20, i.e., in the drum 23, and can therefore be regarded as the temperature in the drum 23.

[0047] A top tank 200 capable of storing water is disposed in the housing 10 at a position above the outer tub 20 and the drying device 100 and adjacent to the top surface 10a of the housing 10. The top tank 200 has a substantially rectangular parallelepiped shape that is flat in the vertical direction, and overlaps nearly the entire top surface 10a from below. The top tank 200 is provided with recesses 201 on both the left and right sides to avoid the springs 22. The top tank 200 corresponds to the first tank of the present invention.

[0048] The outlet of the tank water supply valve 52 is connected to the top tank 200 from the rear. When the tank water supply valve 52 is opened, water from the water faucet is supplied into the top tank 200. In other words, the water supply unit 50 supplies water into the top tank 200.

[0049] A full water detector 210 for detecting full water is provided inside the top tank 200. The full water detector 210 is composed of, for example, a pair of electrodes provided on the top surface of the top tank 200. When water is supplied into the top tank 200, electricity is passed between the pair of electrodes. When the top tank 200 is full of water, the pair of electrodes come into contact with the water and become conductive. This detects full water.

[0050] 4(a) and (b) are diagrams showing an example of installation of the top tank 200 in the housing 10. FIG.

[0051] As shown in Fig. 4(a), the top tank 200 can be attached to the top surface 10a of the housing 10 via a sheet-like insulating member 60 provided on the top surface. Alternatively, as shown in Fig. 4(b), the top tank 200 can be attached to the top surface 10a of the housing 10 by bosses 202 provided at the four corners of the top surface so as not to come into contact with the top surface 10a. In these installation examples, it is possible to make it difficult for heat to be transferred from the top tank 200 to the top surface 10a of the housing 10.

[0052] An air duct tank 300 capable of storing water is disposed within the housing 10 so as to be in contact with the housing 113 of the circulating air duct 110. The air duct tank 300 is formed in an annular shape and surrounds the entire circumferential surface (top, bottom, left and right surfaces) of the portion of the housing 113 where the heater 132 is disposed. That is, the air duct tank 300 overlaps with the heater 132 in a direction (top, bottom and left and right directions) perpendicular to the direction of the air flow (front and back direction) within the housing 113. The air duct tank 300 corresponds to the second tank and tank of the present invention.

[0053] A first water guide pipe 310 extending upward is integrally formed on the top surface of the air passage tank 300. The first water guide pipe 310 is connected to the top tank 200 from below. The first water guide pipe 310 corresponds to the first water supply passage of the present invention.

[0054] A tank temperature sensor 320 is provided inside the air path tank 300. The tank temperature sensor 320 is, for example, a thermistor, and detects the temperature of the water stored in the air path tank 300.

[0055] A circular outlet 13 is formed in the front portion 10b of the housing 10 above the input port 11. A second water guide pipe 220 extending downward from the front end of the bottom surface of the top tank 200 is connected to the outlet 13. The second water guide pipe 220 corresponds to the second water supply passage of the present invention. A first water storage valve 230 is provided in the second water guide pipe 220. A third water guide pipe 330 extends forward from the lower front surface of the air passage tank 300, bends to the right, and is connected to the second water guide pipe 220 upstream (above) of the first water storage valve 230.

[0056] A bottom tank 400 is disposed at the bottom of the housing 10. The bottom tank 400 is made of a resin material and has a substantially rectangular parallelepiped shape. The bottom tank 400 is covered on the front, back, left, right, and top surfaces with a sheet-like heat insulating member 410.

[0057] A circular inlet 14 is formed in the front portion 10b of the housing 10 below the input port 11. A fourth water guide pipe 420 extends upward from the front end of the top surface of the bottom tank 400 and is connected to the inlet 14. A second water storage valve 430 is provided on the fourth water guide pipe 420.

[0058] A pump 500 is disposed behind the bottom tank 400. A suction pipe 510 is connected to a suction port 501 of the pump 500. The suction pipe 510 is inserted into the bottom tank 400 and extends near the bottom surface. A discharge pipe 520 is connected to a discharge port 502 of the pump 500. The discharge pipe 520 extends upward and is connected to the outer tank 20 via an outlet duct 111. The discharge pipe 520 may be directly connected to the outer tank 20. The pump 500 corresponds to the supply unit of the present invention.

[0059] A tank drain valve 440 is provided at the outlet 401 provided at the lower rear surface of the bottom tank 400. A tank drain hose 450 extends rearward from the tank drain valve 440 and is connected to the drain hose 42.

[0060] Fig. 5 is a side cross-sectional view of the main parts of the washer / dryer 1, showing the periphery of the door 12. Figs. 6(a) and (b) are a front view and a rear view of the door 12, respectively.

[0061] The door 12 includes an outer door 12a and an inner door 12b provided on the rear side of the outer door 12a. The outer door 12a has a generally cylindrical shape that is flat from front to back, an outer diameter that is larger than the diameter of the insertion port 11, and closes the insertion port 11 from the outside. The inner door 12b is made of a glass material or a resin material, has a generally cylindrical shape that is flat from front to back, and is generally transparent. The outer diameter is smaller than the diameter of the insertion port 11, and when the door 12 is closed, it protrudes into the housing 10, and its peripheral surface comes into contact with the door packing 24.

[0062] The outer door 12a is composed of a door tank 600 capable of storing water and a cover 610 that covers the front and periphery of the door tank 600. That is, the door 12 has a configuration including the door tank 600. The door tank 600 is made of a resin material and is almost transparent. The door tank 600 corresponds to the third tank of the present invention.

[0063] A tank inlet 601 is provided at the upper end of the rear surface of the door tank 600, and a tank outlet 602 is provided at the lower end. The tank inlet 601 has a cylindrical shape that protrudes slightly rearward from the rear surface of the door tank 600. An O-ring 620, which is a water seal packing, is attached to the inner peripheral surface of the tank inlet 601. The tank outlet 602 protrudes rearward from the rear surface of the door tank 600 more than the tank inlet 601, and has a cylindrical shape with a tapered tip.

[0064] The cover 610 is made of a resin material that does not have light-transmitting properties. A hinge portion 611 is provided on the left end portion of the cover 610. The hinge portion 611 is attached to a hinge receiving portion (not shown) provided on the front portion 10b of the housing 10. This allows the door 12 to open and close in the lateral direction.

[0065] In addition, the cover 610 is provided with a handle portion 612 at the right end portion. The handle portion 612 has a lever 613 on the front side and a latch claw 614 on the back side. When the door 12 is closed, the latch claw 614 is latched by a latch portion (not shown) provided on the front surface 10b of the housing 10. This keeps the door 12 in a closed state. When the lever 613 is operated, the latch portion releases the latch claw 614 from its latch, allowing the door 12 to be opened.

[0066] Furthermore, a circular window 615 having the same diameter as the inner door 12b is formed in the center of the cover 610. The inside of the drum 23 can be seen through the window 615, the door tank 600, and the inner door 12b.

[0067] Outlet 13 provided on front surface 10b of housing 10 has a cylindrical shape protruding from front surface 10b in the front-rear direction. The tip of the front part of outlet 13 protruding forward is tapered. A second water guide pipe 220 is connected to the rear part of outlet 13 protruding rearward. Front surface 10b has a circular recess 13a around the front part of outlet 13.

[0068] The inlet 14 provided in the front surface portion 10b has a cylindrical shape that protrudes rearward from the front surface portion 10b. An O-ring 15 is attached to the inner peripheral surface of the front portion of the inlet 14. A fourth water guide pipe 420 is connected to the rear portion of the inlet 14.

[0069] When the door 12 is closed, the outflow port 13 of the front surface 10b is inserted into the tank inflow port 601 of the door tank 600, and the tank outflow port 602 of the door tank 600 is inserted into the inflow port 14 of the front surface 10b. The tip of the tank inflow port 601 fits into the recess 13a of the front surface 10b, and an O-ring 620 is sandwiched between the inner peripheral surface of the tank inflow port 601 and the outer peripheral surface of the outflow port 13, so that the space between the tank inflow port 601 and the outflow port 13 is water-sealed. In addition, an O-ring 15 is sandwiched between the inner peripheral surface of the inflow port 14 and the outer peripheral surface of the tank outflow port 602, so that the space between the inflow port 14 and the tank outflow port 602 is water-sealed. In this way, the door tank 600 is connected to the second water guide pipe 220 and the fourth water guide pipe 420.

[0070] The top tank 200 and the air duct tank 300 are made of a resin material or a metal material. When the top tank 200 and the air duct tank 300 are made of a resin material, the weight and cost of the washer / dryer 1 are prevented from increasing. When the top tank 200 and the air duct tank 300 are made of a metal material, the thermal conductivity of the tank increases, and heat is easily absorbed by the water inside. The door tank 600 can also be made of a metal material. In this case, it becomes impossible to see inside the drum 23. Also, the cover 610 does not have a window 615.

[0071] The bottom tank 400 has a capacity multiple times the combined capacity of the top tank 200, the air duct tank 300, and the door tank 600. This makes it possible to replace the water in the top tank 200, the air duct tank 300, and the door tank 600 multiple times during drying by the drying device 100.

[0072] FIG. 7 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the washer / dryer 1.

[0073] In addition to the above-mentioned components, the washer / dryer 1 is equipped with a control unit 701, a memory unit 702, an operation unit 703, a display unit 704, a water level sensor 705, a motor drive unit 706, a water supply valve drive unit 707, a water storage valve drive unit 708, a drain valve drive unit 709, a fan drive unit 710, a compressor drive unit 711, and a pump drive unit 712.

[0074] The operation unit 703 includes a power button for turning the power on and off, a course selection button for selecting an arbitrary operation course from a plurality of operation courses related to operations such as washing operation, washing and drying operation, etc., and a start button for starting an operation. The operation unit 703 outputs an input signal to the control unit 701 according to the operation button operated by the user.

[0075] The display unit 704 includes a display such as a light-emitting element such as an LED or a liquid crystal panel, and in accordance with a control signal from the control unit 701, displays the selected operation course, displays the progress of the washing operation, notifies of abnormalities, etc.

[0076] The water level sensor 705 detects the water level in the outer tub 20, and outputs a water level signal corresponding to the water level to the control unit 701. The full water detector 210 outputs a full water signal to the control unit 701 when it detects that the top tank 200 is full of water.

[0077] The first temperature sensor 141 and the second temperature sensor 142 output temperature signals corresponding to the detected outlet temperature and inlet temperature, respectively, to the control unit 701. The tank temperature sensor 320 outputs a temperature signal corresponding to the detected water temperature in the air path tank 300 to the control unit 701.

[0078] The motor driving unit 706 drives the driving motor 30 in accordance with a control signal from the control unit 701. The motor driving unit 706 adjusts the driving power so that the driving motor 30 rotates at a set rotation speed.

[0079] The water supply valve drive unit 707 drives the tank water supply valve 51 and the tank water supply valve 52 in accordance with a control signal from the control unit 701. The water storage valve drive unit 708 drives the first water storage valve 230 and the second water storage valve 430 in accordance with a control signal from the control unit 701. The drain valve drive unit 709 drives the drain valve 41 and the tank drain valve 440 in accordance with a control signal from the control unit 701.

[0080] The fan driving unit 710 drives the fan motor 122 of the blower fan 120 in accordance with a control signal from the control unit 701. The fan driving unit 710 adjusts the driving power so that the fan motor 122 rotates at a set rotation speed.

[0081] The compressor driving unit 711 drives the compressor 133 in accordance with a control signal from the control unit 701, and operates the cooler 131 and the heater 132. The pump driving unit 712 drives the pump 500 in accordance with a control signal from the control unit 701.

[0082] The storage unit 702 includes an EEPROM, a RAM, etc. Programs for executing various courses of operation are stored in the storage unit 702. In addition, the storage unit 702 stores various parameters and various control flags used in executing these programs.

[0083] The control unit 701 includes a CPU, etc., and controls the display unit 704, motor drive unit 706, water supply valve drive unit 707, water storage valve drive unit 708, drain valve drive unit 709, fan drive unit 710, compressor drive unit 711, pump drive unit 712, etc. in accordance with programs stored in the memory unit 702 based on signals from the operation unit 703, water level sensor 705, full water detector 210, first temperature sensor 141, second temperature sensor 142, tank temperature sensor 320, etc.

[0084] In the washer / dryer 1, a washing / drying operation, a washing operation, and a drying operation of various operation courses are performed under the control of the control unit 701 based on the user's operation of the operation unit 703. In the washing / drying operation, a washing step, an intermediate spin-drying step, a rinsing step, a final spin-drying step, and a drying step are performed in that order. In the washing operation, the washing step through the final spin-drying step are performed, and a drying step is not performed. In the drying operation, only the drying step is performed. Depending on the operation course, the rinsing step and the intermediate spin-drying step may be performed two or more times.

[0085] In the washing process, water containing detergent is filled in the outer tub 20 up to a washing water level corresponding to the load of laundry contained in the drum 23, and laundry immersed in the water is tumbling inside the drum 23 as the drum 23 repeatedly rotates forward and backward. The detergent-containing water penetrates into the laundry, and dirt from the laundry is removed by the power of the detergent and the mechanical force of the tumbling.

[0086] In the rinsing process, the drum 23 rotates forward and backward with water stored in the outer tub 20 up to the rinsing water level, and the laundry is tumbling inside the drum 23. This causes the detergent contained in the laundry to be discharged together with the water, and the laundry is rinsed.

[0087] In the intermediate spin-drying step and the final spin-drying step, the drive motor 30 rotates in one direction at high speed, and the drum 23 rotates in one direction at a rotation speed at which the centrifugal force acting on the laundry inside the drum 23 is much greater than gravity. The action of the centrifugal force presses the laundry against the peripheral wall of the drum 23 and causes it to be dewatered.

[0088] In the drying process, air, i.e., wind, is circulated between the outer tub 20 and the circulating air passage 110 by the operation of the blower fan 120, and the wind introduced into the outer tub 20 is heated by the operation of the heater 132 to become hot air. Furthermore, the drum 23 rotates forward and backward, and the laundry is tumbling inside the drum 23.

[0089] The hot air discharged from discharge port 20e into drum 23 hits the tumbling laundry, drying the laundry. The hot air that has removed moisture from the laundry returns to circulation air duct 110 from exhaust port 20d. In circulation air duct 110, the hot air passes through cooler 131 before being heated by heater 132, and is dehumidified by cooler 131.

[0090] During drying, the control unit 701 judges whether the laundry in the drum 23 is dry or not. For example, the drying rate of the laundry in the drum 23 is judged based on the outlet temperature detected by the first temperature sensor 141 and the inlet temperature detected by the second temperature sensor 142, and it is judged to be dry when a predetermined drying rate (for example, 100%) is reached.

[0091] The outlet temperature detected by the first temperature sensor 141, i.e., the temperature of the hot air discharged from the outer tub 20, remains almost constant while the clothes in the drum 23 contain sufficient moisture and sufficient heat exchange occurs between the moisture and the hot air. Thereafter, the drum outlet temperature begins to rise as the clothes dry and the moisture content decreases, making it difficult to exchange heat between the moisture and the hot air. Meanwhile, the inlet temperature detected by the second temperature sensor 142, i.e., the temperature of the hot air introduced into the outer tub 20, remains higher than the outlet temperature and remains almost constant. Thus, after the clothes have been dried to a certain extent, the temperature difference between the inlet temperature and the outlet temperature decreases as the drying rate of the clothes increases.

[0092] The temperature difference between the inlet temperature and the outlet temperature when a predetermined drying rate is reached is obtained in advance by performing an experiment or the like, and is set as a specified value for determining the end of drying. When the temperature difference between the inlet temperature and the outlet temperature reaches the specified value, it is determined that the predetermined drying rate has been reached. Note that it may also be determined that the laundry is dry when a predetermined drying time has elapsed since the blower fan 120 and the heater 132 started operating.

[0093] When control unit 701 determines that the laundry is dry, drum 23, compressor 133 and blower fan 120 are stopped, thereby completing the drying process.

[0094] When drying is performed by the drying device 100 in the drying step, heat is released from the circulating air duct 110. In particular, heat is likely to be released from the periphery of the heater 132 in the housing 113. Heat is also released from the outer tub 20. When heat generated within the casing 10 is released to the outside in this manner, the installation space in which the washer / dryer 1 is installed is likely to become hot. In particular, if there is a lot of humidity in the installation space, the relative humidity increases with an increase in temperature, making the environment uncomfortable and likely to cause mold and mildew to grow.

[0095] Therefore, in the washer / dryer 1 of this embodiment, a top tank 200, an air duct tank 300, and a door tank 600 are provided in a portion near top surface 10a in casing 10 where heat is trapped and tends to become high, in housing 113 which tends to become high due to heat from heater 132, and in door 12 which tends to become high due to direct heat from inside drum 23. During drying by drying device 100, an external heat radiation suppression process is executed to suppress heat radiation (exhaust heat) to the outside of washer / dryer 1 by storing water in top tank 200, air duct tank 300, and door tank 600.

[0096] 8 is a flowchart showing the external heat radiation suppression process executed by the control unit 701. When the drying process is started, the external heat radiation suppression process is started.

[0097] The control unit 701 monitors whether the temperature inside the drum 23 has reached the water storage start temperature (S101). The water storage start temperature is a temperature at which the inside of the drum 23 is appropriately warmed so that the hot air from the drying device 100 is used to dry the laundry, and is, for example, 45° C. In this embodiment, the temperature of the air discharged from the outer tub 20 into the outlet duct 111 is regarded as the temperature inside the drum 23, and is detected by the first temperature sensor 141. Note that a temperature sensor may be disposed inside the outer tub 20, and the temperature detected by the temperature sensor may be regarded as the temperature inside the drum 23.

[0098] When the temperature inside the drum 23 reaches the water storage start temperature (S101: YES), the control unit 701 starts the water storage control process (S102).

[0099] FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing the water storage control process executed by the control unit 701.

[0100] The control unit 701 opens the tank water supply valve 52 (S201). This causes water to be supplied from the water supply unit 50 into the top tank 200. The water supplied into the top tank 200 is supplied to the air passage tank 300 through the first water guide pipe 310. At this time, the first water storage valve 230 is closed. Therefore, water is also supplied into the air passage tank 300 through the second water guide pipe 220 and the third water guide pipe 330. This causes water to accumulate in the air passage tank 300. At this point, no water is supplied into the door tank 600. After the air passage tank 300 is full of water, water accumulates in the top tank 200, and eventually the top tank 200 becomes full of water.

[0101] When the full water detector 210 detects that the top tank 200 is full (S202: YES), the control unit 701 closes the tank water supply valve 52 (S203). This stops the supply of water to the top tank 200.

[0102] The heat transferred to the peripheral portion of the heater 132 in the housing 113 is absorbed by the water in the air duct tank 300. Furthermore, the heat released from the circulating air duct 110 other than the peripheral portion of the outer tub 20 and the heater 132 and trapped near the top surface 10a in the casing 10 is absorbed by the water in the top surface tank 200.

[0103] The temperature of the water in the air passage tank 300 is detected by the tank temperature sensor 320 as the tank internal temperature. The control unit 701 determines whether the tank internal temperature has reached a first temperature (S204). The first temperature is set to, for example, 40° C. Before the tank internal temperature reaches the first temperature, heat in the drum 23 is transferred to the door 12, particularly the inner door 12b, and the door 12 reaches a temperature that requires cooling.

[0104] When the temperature inside the tank reaches the first temperature (S204: YES), the control unit 701 opens the first water storage valve 230 (S205). Water inside the top tank 200 is supplied into the door tank 600 through the second water guide pipe 220. Furthermore, water inside the air passage tank 300 is supplied into the door tank 600 through the third water guide pipe 330 and the second water guide pipe 220. As a result, water is stored in the door tank 600.

[0105] Water is stored in door tank 600 after door 12 has been heated to a certain degree, not immediately after the temperature inside drum 23 reaches the water storage start temperature, so that a drop in the temperature inside drum 23 is suppressed. Note that control unit 701 may open first water storage valve 230 when a specified time has elapsed after the temperature inside drum 23 reaches the water storage start temperature. The specified time may be set to a time similar to the time it takes for the temperature inside the tank to reach the first temperature.

[0106] The control unit 701 judges whether the first waiting time has elapsed since the first water storage valve 230 was opened (S206). The water supply flow rate from the tank water supply valve 52 is often higher than the drainage flow rate from the top tank 200 when the first water storage valve 230 is opened. Therefore, if the time from when the first water storage valve 230 is opened to when the tank water supply valve 52 is opened is short, there is a risk that the top tank 200 will be filled with water from the tank water supply valve 52 before the door tank 600 is filled with water. Therefore, the first waiting time is set to a time that will not cause such a phenomenon. However, it is desirable that the first waiting time is shorter than the time from when the first water storage valve 230 is opened to when the door tank 600 is filled with water.

[0107] When the first standby time has elapsed (S206: YES), the control unit 701 opens the tank water supply valve 52 (S207). Water is supplied into the top surface tank 200, and water accumulates in the top surface tank 200 and the air passage tank 300. When the top surface tank 200 is full of water (S208: YES), the control unit 701 closes the tank water supply valve 52 (S209).

[0108] For example, the combined capacity of the top tank 200 and the air passage tank 300 can be set to be equal to or less than the capacity of the door tank 600. In this case, no water remains in the top tank 200 and the air passage tank 300 after absorbing heat, and all the water is replaced.

[0109] The heat transferred from inside the drum 23 to the inner door 12b of the door 12 is absorbed by the water in the door tank 600. This suppresses the temperature rise of the door 12 and suppresses the heat dissipation from the door 12 to the outside of the housing 10. Furthermore, in the top tank 200 and the air duct tank 300, the replaced water absorbs heat, suppressing the heat dissipation from the upper part of the housing 10 to the outside.

[0110] The control unit 701 determines whether the temperature inside the tank has reached a second temperature (S210). The second temperature is the water temperature inside the air passage tank 300 when the heat absorbing effect of the water inside the top tank 200, the air passage tank 300, and the door tank 600 decreases and the water needs to be replaced. The second temperature may be the same as the first temperature or may be different from the first temperature. The second temperature is set to, for example, 40°C.

[0111] When the temperature inside the tank reaches the second temperature (S210: YES), the control unit 701 opens the second water storage valve 430 (S211). The water inside the door tank 600 is discharged into the bottom tank 400 through the fourth water guide pipe 420. Furthermore, the water inside the top tank 200 and the air passage tank 300 is also discharged into the bottom tank 400 through the door tank 600.

[0112] The control unit 701 determines whether or not a second standby time has elapsed since the second water storage valve 430 was opened (S212). The second standby time is set to a time during which all the water in the top tank 200, the air passage tank 300, and the door tank 600 is drained into the bottom tank 400, for example.

[0113] When the second standby time has elapsed (S212: YES), the control unit 701 closes the second water storage valve 430 (S213). Thereafter, the control unit 701 repeats the processes of steps S207 to S213 until drying of the laundry in the drum 23 is completed. Water is stored in the top tank 200, the air passage tank 300, and the door tank 600, and when the water warms up, it is discharged into the bottom tank 400.

[0114] Note that an upper limit may be set on the number of times the processes of steps S207 to S213 are repeated so that water is not supplied to the top tank 200, the air passage tank 300, and the door tank 600 when the bottom tank 400 is full of water.

[0115] Returning to Fig. 8, when control unit 701 starts the water storage control process in Fig. 9 in step S102, it then monitors whether or not drying of the laundry in drum 23 by drying device 100 is completed (S103). Then, when drying of the laundry is completed and operation of drying device 100, i.e., operation of heater 132 and blower fan 120, is stopped (S103: YES), control unit 701 ends the water storage control process (S104). At this time, if tank water supply valve 52 is in an open state, tank water supply valve 52 is closed.

[0116] The control unit 701 opens the second water storage valve 430 (S105). This causes the water in the top tank 200, the air passage tank 300, and the door tank 600 to be discharged into the bottom tank 400. When the control unit 701 ends the water storage control process, if the second water storage valve 430 is in an open state, the control unit 701 keeps the second water storage valve 430 open in step S105.

[0117] The control unit 701 determines whether the drainage time has elapsed (S106). The drainage time is set to the time required for all water to be drained from the top tank 200, the air passage tank 300, and the door tank 600, which are in a full state. When the drainage time has elapsed (S106: YES), the control unit 701 closes the second water storage valve 430 (S107).

[0118] Thereafter, the control unit 701 stores in the storage unit 702 the fact that water is stored in the bottom tank 400 (S108). For example, the control unit 701 sets a water storage flag prepared in the storage unit 702. In this manner, the external heat radiation suppression process ends.

[0119] Warm water is stored in the bottom tank 400. The water in the bottom tank 400 is used in the washing process of the next washing operation or washing and drying operation. The bottom tank 400 is covered with a heat insulating member 410, so that the water inside is kept warm. Therefore, if there is not much time left until the next washing operation or washing and drying operation, the warm water is likely to be used.

[0120] FIG. 10 is a flow chart showing the water supply control process to the outer tub 20 executed by the control unit 701 in the washing process.

[0121] The control unit 701 determines whether water is stored in the bottom tank 400 (S301). If water is stored in the bottom tank 400 (S301: YES), the control unit 701 operates the pump 500 (S302). This causes the water in the bottom tank 400 to be supplied to the outer tub 20. When the water level in the outer tub 20 reaches the washing water level (S303: YES), the control unit 701 stops the pump 500 (S304). This stops the supply of water from the bottom tank 400.

[0122] On the other hand, if there is no water stored in the bottom tank 400 (S301: NO), the control unit 701 opens the tank water supply valve 51 (S305). This causes water from the tank water supply valve 51 to be supplied to the outer tub 20. If the water level in the outer tub 20 reaches the wash water level (S306: YES), the control unit 701 closes the tank water supply valve 51 (S307). This stops the water supply from the tank water supply valve 51.

[0123] If the amount of water in the bottom tank 400 is less than the amount of water corresponding to the washing water level, water supply becomes impossible during water supply by the pump 500. The control unit 701 determines that water supply is impossible when the water level in the outer tub 20 does not change for a predetermined time (S308: YES) and stops the pump 500 (S309). Then, the control unit 701 switches the water supply and supplies water from the tub water supply valve 51 into the outer tub 20 (S305 to S307).

[0124] When the water in the bottom tank 400 is supplied up to the washing water level, the tank drain valve 440 is opened and all the water in the bottom tank 400 is discharged outside the machine.

[0125] <Effects of the embodiment> According to this embodiment, a top tank 200 capable of storing water is disposed above the outer tub 20 and the drying device 100 in the housing 10, and water is supplied to the top tank 200 by the water supply unit 50 so that the top tank 200 is in a water-storing state during drying by the drying device 100. As a result, heat released from the outer tub 20 and the drying device 100 and trapped near the top surface 10a in the housing 10 is absorbed by the water in the top tank 200, so that heat dissipation to the outside of the housing 10 can be suppressed. Therefore, an increase in temperature in the installation space of the washer-dryer 1 can be suppressed.

[0126] Furthermore, air duct tank 300 capable of storing water is disposed in housing 10 so as to be in contact with housing 113 in which heater 132 is disposed, and water is supplied into air duct tank 300 by water supply unit 50 so that water is stored in air duct tank 300 during drying. As a result, heat from heater 132 transmitted to housing 113 is absorbed by the water in air duct tank 300. This further suppresses heat radiation to the outside of housing 10 during drying.

[0127] Furthermore, since the first water guide pipe 310 is provided through which the water discharged from the top tank 200 flows into the air passage tank 300, the water from the water supply unit 50 can be supplied into the air passage tank 300 through the top tank 200. Therefore, the top tank 200 can also be used as a water supply path to the air passage tank 300.

[0128] Furthermore, the door 12 includes a door tank 600 capable of storing water, and water is supplied into the door tank 600 by the water supply unit 50 so that the door tank 600 is in a water-storing state during drying. This suppresses a temperature rise in the door 12, and suppresses heat radiation from the door 12 to the outside of the housing 10. Therefore, heat radiation to the outside of the housing 10 during drying can be further suppressed.

[0129] Furthermore, since the second water guide pipe 220 is provided through which the water discharged from the top tank 200 flows into the door tank 600, the water from the water supply unit 50 can be supplied into the door tank 600 through the top tank 200. Therefore, the top tank 200 can also be used as a water supply path to the door tank 600.

[0130] Furthermore, a bottom tank 400 that stores water discharged from the top tank 200, the air duct tank 300, and the door tank 600, and a pump 500 that supplies water from the bottom tank 400 to the outer tub 20 are arranged inside the housing 10. This allows the water supplied to the top tank 200, the air duct tank 300, and the door tank 600 to be used for the next washing operation or washing and drying operation. In particular, depending on the start time of the next washing operation or washing and drying operation, it becomes possible to use water that has been warmed by the exhaust heat during drying.

[0131] Although the embodiment of the present invention has been described above, the present invention is not limited to the above embodiment, and various modifications of the embodiment of the present invention are possible in addition to those described above.

[0132] For example, in the above embodiment, air-path tank 300 is formed in an annular shape and surrounds the entire circumferential surface (top, bottom, left and right surfaces) of the portion of housing 113 where heater 132 is disposed. However, air-path tank 300 may be configured to cover only a portion of the surface of the portion of housing 113 where heater 132 is disposed.

[0133] For example, as shown in Fig. 11(a), air path tank 300 may cover the top surface and both side surfaces of housing 113. Also, as shown in Fig. 11(b), air path tank 300 may cover the top surface and one side surface of housing 113. Furthermore, as shown in Fig. 11(c), air path tank 300 may cover only the top surface of housing 113.

[0134] Furthermore, air-path tank 300 may be configured to contact not only housing 113 but also other parts of circulating air path 110. For example, as shown in FIG. 11(d), air-path tank 300 may be configured to contact housing 113 and the top surface of fan casing 112.

[0135] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, water is stored in the top tank 200 and the air duct tank 300 after waiting for the temperature inside the drum 23 to rise to the water storage start temperature due to the operation of the drying device 100, i.e., the operation of the heater 132 and the blower fan 120. However, water may be stored in the top tank 200 and the air duct tank 300 simultaneously with or before the operation of the drying device 100.

[0136] 9, after water is stored in the top tank 200 and the air duct tank 300, the water temperature in the air duct tank 300 reaches the first temperature, and then the water is stored in the door tank 600. However, water may be stored in the door tank 600 at the same time as the water is stored in the top tank 200 and the air duct tank 300.

[0137] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, water is supplied from the water supply unit 50 to the air passage tank 300 and the door tank 600 via the top tank 200. However, water may be supplied from the water supply unit 50 directly to the air passage tank 300 and the door tank 600 without passing through the top tank 200.

[0138] Furthermore, the door 12 may be configured such that the hollow inner door 12b is used as a door tank. In this case, the outer door 12a is provided with a water supply path connected to the outlet 13 of the housing 10 to supply water into the inner door 12b, and a discharge path connected to the inlet 14 of the housing 10 to discharge water from inside the inner door 12b.

[0139] Furthermore, the washer / dryer 1 may be configured so that the door tank 600 is not provided on the door 12.

[0140] Furthermore, if the tank outlet 602 of the door tank 600 is located higher than the wash water level in the outer tub 20, or if the door tank 600 is not provided on the door 12, the bottom tank 400 may not be provided, and the water in the top tank 200, etc. may be directly supplied to the outer tub 20. In this case, however, the water in the top tank 200, air duct tank 300, and door tank 600 cannot be replaced.

[0141] Furthermore, the washer / dryer 1 may be configured such that the drying device 100 is disposed between the outer tub 20 and the bottom tank 400 in the housing 10. In this case, for example, the first water guide pipe 310 extending from the air passage tank 300 to the top tank 200 is lengthened. Also, the third water guide pipe 330 from the air passage tank 300 may have a third water storage valve and be configured to be connected to the bottom tank 400.

[0142] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the washer / dryer 1 is a drum-type washer / dryer equipped with a horizontal-axis-type drum 23. However, the present invention can also be applied to a so-called vertical-type washer / dryer equipped with a vertical-axis-type washing / spinning tub having a pulsator as an inner tub inside an outer tub.

[0143] In addition, the embodiments of the present invention can be modified in various ways as appropriate within the scope of the technical ideas set forth in the claims. [Explanation of symbols]

[0144] 10. Chassis 11 Inlet 12 Doors 20 Outer tank 23 Drum (inner tank) 50 Water supply section 100 Drying equipment 113 Housing (air passage) 120 Blower fan 132 Heater 200 Top tank (first tank) 220 Second water supply pipe (Second water supply channel) 300 Air duct tank (second tank, tank) 310 First inlet pipe (first water supply line) 400 Bottom Tank (4th Tank) 500 Pump (supply section) 600 Door Tank (3rd Tank) 700 Control section

Claims

1. An outer tank disposed within the housing; an inner tub that is rotatably disposed within the outer tub and that accommodates laundry; a drying device including a blower fan, an air passage through which air generated by the blower fan flows, and a heater disposed in the air passage, and configured to supply air heated by the heater into the drum; a first tank capable of storing water, the first tank being disposed in the housing above the outer tub and the drying device; a water supply unit that supplies water into the first tank; A control unit that controls the operation of the drying device and the water supply unit, The control unit controls the water supply unit to supply water into the first tank so that the first tank is in a water-retaining state during drying by the drying device. A washer / dryer characterized by the above.

2. The washing and drying machine according to claim 1, a second tank capable of storing water and arranged in the housing so as to be in contact with the air passage; The water supply unit is capable of supplying water to the second tank, The control unit controls the water supply unit to supply water into the second tank so that the second tank is in a water-retaining state during the drying process. A washer / dryer characterized by the above.

3. The washing and drying machine according to claim 2, The apparatus further includes a first water supply passage through which water discharged from the first tank flows into the second tank. A washer / dryer characterized by the above.

4. The washing and drying machine according to claim 1, An input port provided in the housing, into which laundry is input; and a door that can be opened and closed to cover the insertion port. The door includes a third tank capable of storing water; The water supply unit is capable of supplying water to the third tank, The control unit controls the water supply unit to supply water into the third tank so that the third tank is in a water-retained state during the drying process. A washer / dryer characterized by the above.

5. The washing and drying machine according to claim 4, The apparatus further includes a second water supply passage through which water discharged from the first tank flows into the third tank. A washer / dryer characterized by the above.

6. The washing and drying machine according to any one of claims 1 to 5, a fourth tank disposed at a bottom of the housing and configured to store water discharged from the first tank; A supply unit that supplies water in the fourth tank to the outer tank. A washer / dryer characterized by the above.

7. An outer tank disposed within the housing; an inner tub that is rotatably disposed within the outer tub and that accommodates laundry; a drying device including a blower fan, an air passage through which air generated by the blower fan flows, and a heater disposed in the air passage, and configured to supply air heated by the heater into the drum; a tank capable of storing water, the tank being disposed within the housing so as to be in contact with the air passage; A water supply unit that supplies water into the tank; A control unit that controls the operation of the drying device and the water supply unit, The control unit controls the water supply unit to supply water into the tank so that the tank is in a water-retaining state during drying by the drying device. A washer / dryer characterized by the above.

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