Water purification unit, washing system, and tank

Abstract

To provide a novel water purification unit having a filter and a tank, a washing system and a tank.SOLUTION: A tank unit 30 includes a tank 21 that stores drain water discharged from a washing tank of the washing machine, a filter unit used for purification of the drain water, a filter unit housing part 48 disposed in the tank 21, in which the filter unit is housed retractably, and a guide part 56 disposed in the filter unit housing part 48, which guides the filter unit to be housed in the filter unit housing part 48 toward a predetermined fitting position.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 6

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a water purification device, a laundry system, and a tank. [Background technology]

[0002] 2. Description of the Related Art A tank for storing wastewater discharged from a washing machine is known (see, for example, Patent Document 1). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] JP 2001-218997 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] However, in order to purify and reuse the wastewater stored in the tank, it is necessary to provide a filter for purifying the wastewater. Therefore, there is a demand for a new water purification device that includes the filter and the tank.

[0005] An object of the present disclosure is to provide a novel water purification device, a laundry system, and a tank, comprising a filter and a tank. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] A water purifier according to one aspect of the present disclosure includes a tank and a filter. The tank stores water. The filter purifies the water stored in the tank. The tank has a storage section and a guide section. The filter is stored in the storage section. The guide section guides the filter toward a storage position of the filter in the storage section when the filter is stored in the storage section.

[0007] A laundry system according to another aspect of the present disclosure includes the water purifier and a washing machine. The washing machine drains water into the water purifier.

[0008] A tank according to another aspect of the present disclosure stores water and includes a storage section and a guide section. The storage section stores a filter that purifies the water stored in the tank. When the filter is stored in the storage section, the guide section guides the filter toward a storage position of the filter in the storage section. Effect of the Invention

[0009] According to the present disclosure, a novel water purification device including a filter and a tank can be provided. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0010] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing a configuration of the front side of a laundry system according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure. [Diagram 2] 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. [Diagram 3] FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing a control system of the laundry system according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a perspective view showing a configuration of the rear side of the lower part of the laundry system according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. [Diagram 5] FIG. 5 is a perspective view showing a configuration of a water circulator of the laundry system according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a perspective view showing a configuration of a tank of the washing system according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a plan view showing a configuration of a top surface portion of a tank of the washing system according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a perspective view showing a configuration of the front side of the filter unit of the laundry system according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 9]FIG. 9 is a perspective view showing a configuration of the rear side of the filter unit of the laundry system according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view showing a configuration of a filter unit of the laundry system according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a perspective view showing a configuration of a filter unit accommodating section of the laundry system according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is a perspective view showing a configuration of a first pump of the washing system according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view showing configurations of a filter unit accommodating section and a filter unit in the laundry system according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is a perspective view showing a modified example of the tank of the washing system according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 15] FIG. 15 is a perspective view showing a configuration of the front side of the laundry system according to the second embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 16] FIG. 16 is a perspective view showing a modified example of the tank of the washing system according to the second embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 17] FIG. 17 is a perspective view showing a modified example of the tank of the washing system according to the second embodiment of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0011] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Note that the following embodiments are merely examples of the present disclosure and do not limit the technical scope of the present disclosure.

[0012] [First embodiment] First, the configuration of a laundry system 100 according to the first embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 1. In Fig. 1, only a housing 11 of the laundry machine 1 is shown.

[0013] For ease of explanation, the vertical direction is defined as an up-down direction D1 in an installed state (as shown in FIG. 1) in which the laundry system 100 can be used. A front-rear direction D2 is defined with the right front side of the page of the laundry system 100 shown in FIG. 1 as the front. A left-right direction D3 is defined with the front of the laundry system 100 in the installed state as a reference.

[0014] In addition, in the present disclosure, a "washing machine" refers to a general device that performs various processes such as washing on the laundry. Examples of the processes performed in a washing machine include washing, drying, deodorizing, and sterilizing. The laundry is not particularly limited. Examples of the laundry include cloth products. Examples of the laundry include clothing such as clothes, hats, and gloves, clothing accessories such as shoes, bags, handkerchiefs, and towels, interior items such as curtains and carpets, bedding such as blankets, towel blankets, and duvet covers, and toys such as stuffed animals.

[0015] The laundry system 100 washes items such as clothes using water to which a detergent such as alkaline ionized water has been added. As shown in FIG.

[0016] [Washing Machine 1 Configuration] Next, the configuration of the washing machine 1 will be described with reference to FIGS.

[0017] 1 and 2, washing machine 1 includes housing 11, door 12, washing tub 13, rotating drum 14, motor 15, water supply channel 16, and drain channel 17. Washing machine 1 also includes drying section 18, operation display section 19, and control section 20 shown in FIG.

[0018] The housing 11 houses each component of the washing machine 1. The housing 11 is formed in a substantially rectangular parallelepiped shape. As shown in FIG. 2, an inclined surface is provided on the upper side of one side of the housing 11, which corresponds to the front of the washing machine 1, and inclined toward the upper surface of the housing 11. The inclined surface is provided with a circular opening 11A. The opening 11A is used for putting the laundry into the rotary drum 14 inside the housing 11 and for collecting the laundry from the rotary drum 14. As shown in FIG. 1, a water supply port 11B is provided on the rear side of the upper surface of the housing 11. The water supply port 11B is connected to the first water passage 23 of the water circulation device 2. The water supply port 11B is used to supply water to the washing tub 13 inside the housing 11. As shown in FIG. 1, a drain port 11C is provided on the lower side of the left side surface of the housing 11. The drain port 11C is connected to the second water passage 24 of the water circulation device 2. Drain outlet 11C is used for draining water from washing tub 13 inside housing 11. Four legs 11D (see Figs. 1 and 2) are provided on the bottom surface of housing 11. Four legs 11D are arranged at the four corners of the bottom surface of housing 11. Drain outlet 11C may be provided on the lower right side surface of housing 11 or on the bottom surface. Housing 11 may also have five or more legs 11D.

[0019] 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 the left or right side of the opening 11A.

[0020] Washing tub 13 stores water used for washing. Washing tub 13 is formed in a cylindrical shape that is open only on one side in the axial direction. That is, washing tub 13 has a circular opening 13A (see FIG. 2). As shown in FIG. 2, washing tub 13 is fixedly disposed inside housing 11 with opening 13A facing opening 11A of housing 11. A water supply port 13B is provided on the upper side surface of washing tub 13. Water supply port 13B communicates with water supply port 11B of housing 11 via water supply passage 16. Water supply port 13B is used to supply water to washing tub 13. A drain port 13C is provided on the lower side surface of washing tub 13. Drain port 13C communicates with drain port 11C of housing 11 via drain passage 17. Drain port 13C is used to drain water from washing tub 13.

[0021] The rotating drum 14 accommodates the laundry. The rotating drum 14 is formed in a cylindrical shape that is open only on one side in the axial direction. That is, the rotating drum 14 has a circular opening 14A (see FIG. 2). The size of the rotating drum 14 in the radial direction is smaller than that of the washing tub 13. As shown in FIG. 2, the rotating drum 14 is disposed inside the washing tub 13 with the opening 14A facing the opening 11A of the housing 11. The rotating drum 14 is disposed inside the washing tub 13 so as to be rotatable about the central axis (rotation axis) of the rotating drum 14. A number of water holes (not shown) are provided on the side surface of the rotating drum 14 for supplying water stored in the washing tub 13 to the inside of the rotating drum 14.

[0022] Washing machine 1 is a so-called inclined drum type washing machine in which rotating drum 14 is disposed at an angle. Specifically, rotating drum 14 is disposed in a posture in which the central axis is perpendicular to the inclined surface of housing 11. The inclination angle of rotating drum 14 with respect to the horizontal plane is set within a range of 5 degrees to 30 degrees, taking into consideration water-saving effect, cleaning power, susceptibility to damage to the laundry, and ease of removal of the laundry after washing is completed. Note that washing machine 1 is not limited to a so-called inclined drum type washing machine, and may be a so-called horizontal type washing machine in which the central axis of rotating drum 14 is disposed horizontally.

[0023] The motor 15 supplies a rotational driving force to the rotating drum 14. The rotating drum 14 rotates about the central axis by 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.

[0024] Water supply passage 16 is a water passage that extends from water supply port 11B of housing 11 to water supply port 13B of washing tub 13. As shown in Fig. 2, water supply passage 16 is provided with water supply valve 16A and ionized water supply unit 16B. Water supply valve 16A is an electromagnetic valve or an electric valve that changes state between an open state that allows water to pass and a closed state that prohibits water from passing. As shown in Fig. 3, water supply valve 16A is connected to control unit 20 and is driven and controlled by control unit 20.

[0025] The ionized water supply unit 16B generates alkaline ionized water for washing and supplies it to the water supply path 16. Specifically, the ionized water supply unit 16B generates alkaline ionized water for washing by supplying a predetermined amount of undiluted alkaline ionized water to the inside of the water supply path 16. For example, the ionized water supply unit 16B includes an undiluted liquid storage unit, an undiluted liquid supply path, and an undiluted liquid supply pump. The undiluted liquid storage unit stores undiluted alkaline ionized water. For example, the undiluted alkaline ionized water is alkaline ionized water having a pH value of 12.5 or more. The undiluted liquid supply path is a water path for undiluted alkaline ionized water from the undiluted liquid storage unit to a junction with the water supply path 16. The undiluted liquid supply pump is provided in the undiluted liquid supply path and causes the undiluted alkaline ionized water to flow from the undiluted liquid storage unit side to the water supply path 16 side along the undiluted liquid supply path. The undiluted liquid supply pump is connected to a control unit 20 (see FIG. 3) and is driven and controlled by the control unit 20. For example, when water is supplied to water supply port 11B by water circulation device 2 and washing water is stored in washing tub 13, control unit 20 drives the concentrate supply pump to supply an amount of concentrate alkaline ionized water into water supply passage 16 sufficient to make the pH value of the water stored in washing tub 13 approximately 12.0.

[0026] Drainage channel 17 is a water channel that extends from drain outlet 13C of washing tub 13 to drain outlet 11C of housing 11. As shown in FIG. 2, drainage channel 17 is provided with drainage valve 17A, drainage filter 17B, and neutralization unit 17C. Drainage valve 17A is an electromagnetic valve or an electric valve that changes state between an open state that allows water to pass and a closed state that prohibits water from passing. As shown in FIG. 3, drainage valve 17A is connected to control unit 20 and is driven and controlled by control unit 20. Drainage filter 17B captures foreign matter such as lint contained in the water passing through drainage channel 17.

[0027] The neutralization unit 17C neutralizes the alkaline ionized water used for washing by supplying a predetermined amount of acidic water into the drainage channel 17. For example, the neutralization unit 17C includes an acidic water storage unit, an acidic water supply channel, 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 channel is a channel for acidic water that runs from the acidic water storage unit to a junction with the drainage channel 17. The acidic water supply pump is provided in the acidic water supply channel and causes acidic water to flow from the acidic water storage unit side to the drainage channel 17 side along the acidic water supply channel. The acidic water supply pump is connected to a control unit 20 (see FIG. 3) and is driven and controlled by the control unit 20. For example, when water used for washing is discharged from drain outlet 11C and returned to tank 21 (see Figure 1) of water circulation device 2, control unit 20 drives the acidic water supply pump to supply an amount of acidic water into drain channel 17 sufficient to make the pH value of the water in tank 21 approximately 7.0.

[0028] The drying section 18 (see FIG. 3) dries the wet laundry inside the rotating drum 14. The drying section 18 includes a circulation air path passing through the rotating drum 14, a fan that circulates air along the circulation air path, a heater that heats the air supplied to the rotating drum 14, and a heat exchanger that cools and dries the air that has passed through the rotating drum 14. The fan, the heater, and the heat exchanger are connected to the control section 20 (see FIG. 3) and are driven and controlled by the control section 20.

[0029] The operation display unit 19 (see FIG. 3) is a user interface of the laundry system 100. The operation display unit 19 includes a display unit and an operation unit. The display unit displays various information in response to 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 information to the control unit 20 in response to a user's operation. For example, the operation unit includes hard keys and a touch panel.

[0030] The control unit 20 (see FIG. 3) comprehensively controls the laundry system 100. 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. 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 pre-stored in the ROM 20B. In this way, the CPU 20A comprehensively controls the laundry system 100.

[0031] [Configuration of Water Circulation System 2] Next, the configuration of the water circulating device 2 will be described with reference to Figures 1 to 13. Figure 4 shows the water circulating device 2 with the second water passage 24 removed. Figure 5 shows the water circulating device 2 with the filter unit 27 removed.

[0032] As shown in Figures 1, 5, and 6, the water circulation device 2 includes a tank 21, a first pump 22, a first water passage 23, a second water passage 24, a second pump 25, a third water passage 26, a filter unit 27, and a fourth water passage 28.

[0033] Tank 21 stores water to be supplied to washing tub 13 (see FIG. 2) of washing machine 1. Tank 21 also stores wastewater discharged from washing tub 13 of washing machine 1. Tank 21 is formed with a size capable of containing an amount of water necessary for washing operation by washing machine 1. For example, tank 21 stores tap water.

[0034] Tank 21 has one side portion 33 (one example of a side wall) and another side portion 33 extending in a direction inclined relative to the one side portion 33. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 1, tank 21 is formed in a flattened, approximately rectangular parallelepiped shape along bottom portion 32. That is, tank 21 has one side portion 33 and another side portion 33 extending in a direction inclined perpendicularly to the one side portion 33. Washing machine 1 is placed on top surface portion 31 of tank 21. Therefore, top surface portion 31 and bottom surface portion 32 of tank 21 are formed in a size that allows washing machine 1 to be placed thereon. For example, top surface portion 31 and bottom surface portion 32 are formed in a size slightly larger than the bottom surface portion of washing machine 1. Note that top surface portion 31 and bottom surface portion 32 may be formed in a size equal to or smaller than the bottom surface portion of washing machine 1 as long as washing machine 1 can be placed thereon. Tank 21 may also be formed in a polygonal prism shape other than a rectangular parallelepiped.

[0035] The tank 21 has a top surface 31, a bottom surface 32, and four side surfaces 33 (see FIG. 6) corresponding to the four directions of front, rear, left and right, each of which is formed in a flat plate shape. As shown in FIG. 6, the bottom surface 32 and the four side surfaces 33 define a storage space for storing water. Each of the side surfaces 33 is formed so that its upper end is higher than the upper end of the second pump 25 (see FIG. 5) and the upper end of the filter unit 27 (see FIG. 1). An upper opening 33C (see FIG. 6) formed by the upper ends of the four side surfaces 33 is closed by the top surface 31. Note that FIG. 6 shows a state in which the top surface 31 is removed.

[0036] As shown in Fig. 6, six ribs 34 are provided on the inner peripheral surface of the tank 21, aligned along the inner circumference of the tank 21. Specifically, two ribs 34 are provided on the right side surface portion 33. Two ribs 34 are provided on the rear side surface portion 33. Two ribs 34 are provided on the left side surface portion 33. Each of the ribs 34 is formed in a flat plate shape extending upward from the bottom surface portion 32. An upper end portion of each of the ribs 34 supports the top surface portion 31.

[0037] The bottom surface 32, four side surfaces 33, and six ribs 34 of the tank 21 constitute the container body of the tank 21. The bottom surface 32, four side surfaces 33, and six ribs 34 are integrally formed from a resin material such as synthetic resin. The top surface 31 of the tank 21 constitutes a lid that closes an upper opening 33C (see FIG. 6) of the container body. The top surface 31 is formed from a resin material such as synthetic resin.

[0038] As shown in FIGS. 1, 4, and 7, the tank 21 includes a first water supply portion 41, a first drain portion 42, a second water supply portion 43, a second drain portion 44, and four support portions 45.

[0039] As shown in FIG. 7, the first water supply unit 41 is provided on the top surface 31 (an example of a top wall) of the tank 21. Specifically, the first water supply unit 41 is provided near the left front corner of the top surface 31. As shown in FIG. 5 and FIG. 7, the first water supply unit 41 includes a water passage 41A that extends upward from the top surface 31 and bends to the right. The water passage 41A is formed in a tubular shape and communicates a storage space in the tank 21 with the outside of the tank 21. The fourth water passage 28 is connected to the first water supply unit 41. The first water supply unit 41 is used to supply water to the tank 21. Specifically, the first water supply unit 41 is supplied with wastewater discharged from the washing machine 1 and purified by the filter unit 27. The first water supply unit 41 drops the wastewater purified by the filter unit 27 inside the tank 21. The first water supply unit 41 is an example of a preferred embodiment of the water supply path of the present disclosure.

[0040] As shown in FIG. 7, the first drainage section 42 is provided on the top surface 31 of the tank 21. Specifically, the first drainage section 42 is provided near the left end of the top surface 31. As shown in FIG. 5, the first drainage section 42 includes a water passage 42A that penetrates the top surface 31 and extends in the up-down direction D1. The water passage 42A is formed in a tubular shape and communicates the storage space in the tank 21 with the outside of the tank 21. The first drainage section 42 is connected to the first water passage 23. In addition, the water supply section 22A (see FIG. 6) of the first pump 22 is connected to the lower end of the water passage 42A. The first drainage section 42 is used to drain water from the tank 21. Specifically, water that is sent from the tank 21 to the washing machine 1 side by the first pump 22 is discharged from the first drainage section 42.

[0041] As shown in FIG. 7, the second water supply section 43 is provided on the top surface 31 of the tank 21. Specifically, the second water supply section 43 is provided near the right rear corner of the top surface 31. As shown in FIG. 4 and FIG. 7, the second water supply section 43 includes a water passage 43A extending upward from the top surface 31. The water passage 43A is formed in a tubular shape and communicates the storage space in the tank 21 with the outside of the tank 21. The second water supply section 43 is used to supply water to the tank 21. Specifically, tap water is supplied to the second water supply section 43 via a tubular member such as a hose.

[0042] As shown in FIG. 4, the second drainage section 44 is provided on the rear side surface 33 of the tank 21. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 4 and FIG. 6, a recess 33A recessed toward the front side is formed on the lower end of the rear side surface 33 of the tank 21. The second drainage section 44 is provided inside the recess 33A. As shown in FIG. 4, the second drainage section 44 includes a water passage 44A extending rearward from the bottom surface (surface facing rearward) of the recess 33A. The water passage 44A is formed in a tubular shape and communicates the storage space in the tank 21 with the outside of the tank 21. As shown in FIG. 4, a drainage valve 44B is provided in the water passage 44A. The drainage valve 44B is a manual valve that changes state between an open state that allows the passage of water and a closed state that prohibits the passage of water. The second drainage section 44 is used to drain water from the tank 21. Specifically, the second drain 44 discharges water to be disposed of in an external drain or the like.

[0043] Here, as shown in FIG. 6, a low part 44C formed lower than other parts is provided at the bottom of the storage space in the tank 21. The low part 44C is provided facing the inner surface of the side part 33 on the rear side of the tank 21. The water channel 44A is formed so that its bottom surface is continuous with the bottom surface of the low part 44C. In addition, the water channel 44A is formed to extend obliquely downward toward the rear. As a result, when the water in the tank 21 is discharged to the outside via the second drainage part 44, the water at the bottom of the storage space in the tank 21 is guided to the low part 44C, and the water in the low part 44C is guided to the water channel 44A. Therefore, compared to a configuration in which the low part 44C is not provided, the amount of water remaining in the tank 21 after drainage using the second drainage part 44 can be reduced.

[0044] As shown in FIG. 7, the four support parts 45 are provided on the top surface 31 of the tank 21. Specifically, the four support parts 45 are arranged at positions corresponding to the four corners of the top surface 31. Each of the support parts 45 is a recessed portion recessed downward. The four support parts 45 correspond to the four legs 11D of the washing machine 1 and support the four legs 11D. The washing machine 1 is placed on the top surface 31 of the tank 21 so that the four legs 11D are supported by the four support parts 45. Each of the support parts 45 is formed to have a size wider than the bottom surface of the legs 11D. As shown in FIG. 7, among the four support parts 45, the two support parts 45 on the left side are formed to have a larger size in the left-right direction D3 than the other two support parts 45. As a result, the four support parts 45 can support a plurality of types of washing machines 1 having different sizes in the left-right direction D3. When the washing machine 1 has five or more legs 11D, the tank 21 may have the same number of support parts 45 as the legs 11D.

[0045] As shown in FIG. 6, the first pump 22 is provided inside the tank 21. Specifically, the first pump 22 is provided below the first drainage section 42 (see FIG. 5). The first pump 22 is a submersible pump with a built-in motor. The first pump 22 is formed in a cylindrical shape with an approximately dome-shaped upper end. The first pump 22 includes a water intake section that draws in water from the tank 21, a filter section that filters the drawn-in water, a water supply section 22A (see FIG. 6) that sends out the water that has passed through the filter section to the outside, and an electric wire 22B (see FIG. 6) used for electrical connection with the washing machine 1. The water intake section is provided on the outer periphery of the bottom of the first pump 22. The water supply section 22A is formed to extend upward from the upper end of the first pump 22, and the extended end is connected to the lower end of the water passage 42A (see FIG. 5). Electric wire 22B extends upward from the upper end of first pump 22, and extends to washing machine 1 placed on tank 21 via a through hole formed in top surface portion 31. First pump 22 causes water to flow from tank 21 to washing machine 1 along a water supply path that runs from inside tank 21 to water supply port 11B of washing machine 1 via first pump 22, first drainage portion 42, and first water passage 23. As shown in FIG. 3, first pump 22 is connected to control unit 20, and is driven and controlled by control unit 20.

[0046] The first pump 22 is held by a pump holding portion 49 provided inside the tank 21. As shown in FIG. 6 and FIG. 12, the pump holding portion 49 includes a plurality of holding pieces 49A and a plurality of pressing portions 49B. As shown in FIG. 6, the plurality of holding pieces 49A are provided so as to surround the outer periphery of the first pump 22 on the bottom surface portion 32 of the tank 21. The plurality of holding pieces 49A contact the outer periphery of the first pump 22 to regulate the movement of the first pump 22 along the horizontal direction. As shown in FIG. 12, each of the pressing portions 49B is formed to extend downward from the top surface portion 31 of the tank 21, and the extending end portion contacts the upper portion of the first pump 22. Specifically, the plurality of pressing portions 49B are provided on a cover portion 31B (see FIG. 5 and FIG. 12) that closes a rectangular opening 31A (see FIG. 5) formed in a portion of the top surface portion 31 facing the plurality of holding pieces 49A. The multiple pressing portions 49B press the tank 21 from above, restricting movement of the tank 21 in the up-down direction D1. As shown in Fig. 12, the first drainage portion 42 is provided in the lid portion 31B.

[0047] 1, first water passage 23 is a water passage that extends from first drainage section 42 of tank 21 to water supply port 11B of washing machine 1. First water passage 23 is formed of a tubular member such as a resin hose. First pump 22 supplies drainage water stored in tank 21 from tank 21 to washing machine 1 via first water passage 23.

[0048] 1 and 5, second water passage 24 is a water passage that extends from drain port 11C of washing machine 1 to water intake section 25A (see FIG. 5) of second pump 25. Second water passage 24 is formed of a tubular member such as a resin hose. Note that only a portion of second water passage 24 is shown in FIG. 5.

[0049] As shown in FIG. 5, second pump 25 is provided in pump housing 46 formed on the outer surface of tank 21. Pump housing 46 is a portion recessed from top surface 31 of tank 21 toward the inside of tank 21, as described later. Second pump 25 includes water intake 25A that draws in water and water delivery 25B that delivers water. Water intake 25A is connected to second water passage 24. Water delivery 25B is connected to third water passage 26. Second pump 25 causes water to flow from washing machine 1 to tank 21 along a drainage path from drain port 11C of washing machine 1 through second water passage 24, second pump 25, third water passage 26, filter unit 27, and fourth water passage 28 to first water supply section 41 of tank 21. As shown in FIG. 3, second pump 25 is connected to control unit 20 and is driven and controlled by control unit 20.

[0050] The third water passage 26 is a water passage that extends from the second pump 25 to the filter unit 27. The third water passage 26 is formed by a tubular member such as a resin hose.

[0051] As shown in FIG. 1, filter unit 27 is provided in filter unit housing portion 48 (see FIG. 5) formed on the outer surface of tank 21. Filter unit housing portion 48 is a portion recessed from front side portion 33 of tank 21 toward the inside of tank 21, as described below. Filter unit 27 is used to purify wastewater discharged from washing machine 1. Specifically, filter unit 27 purifies the wastewater before it is stored in tank 21. As shown in FIGS. 8 to 10, filter unit 27 includes a filter container 61, a filter member 62, a water supply port 63, and a drain port 64.

[0052] As shown in Fig. 10, a filter member 62 is housed in the filter container 61. As shown in Fig. 8 to Fig. 10, the filter container 61 includes a bottom plate portion 71, a cylindrical portion 72, a flange-shaped portion 73, a lid portion 74, a handle portion 75, and a pair of rotation restriction portions 76.

[0053] As shown in FIG. 8, the bottom plate portion 71 is formed in a substantially rectangular flat plate shape. At each corner of the bottom surface of the bottom plate portion 71, a leg portion 71A (see FIG. 8) protruding downward is provided. As shown in FIG. 9, the tubular portion 72 is formed to protrude cylindrically from the upper surface of the bottom plate portion 71, and defines a storage space for the filter member 62. A water supply port 72A (see FIG. 8) is provided at the lower portion of the tubular portion 72. In addition, an engaged portion 72B that engages with the engaging portion 55 (see FIG. 11) of the filter unit storage portion 48 is provided on the outer peripheral surface of the rear side of the tubular portion 72 (see FIG. 9). The engaged portion 72B is formed in a shape that protrudes rearward from the outer peripheral surface of the rear side of the tubular portion 72. The brim-shaped portion 73 is formed in a brim-like shape that spreads from an opening formed at the upper end of the tubular portion 72 along the horizontal direction to form a substantially rectangular shape. As shown in FIG. 9, the lid portion 74 is formed in a generally rectangular flat plate shape of the same size as the flange-shaped portion 73, and closes the opening formed at the upper end of the cylindrical portion 72. The lid portion 74 is supported by the flange-shaped portion 73. A cylindrical protruding portion 74A (see FIG. 9) is provided on the upper surface of the lid portion 74. The protruding portion 74A is hollow, and is formed coaxially with the axis of the cylindrical portion 72. As shown in FIG. 10, the internal space of the protruding portion 74A communicates with the internal space of the cylindrical portion 72. A drain port 74B (see FIG. 9) is provided on the outer periphery of the protruding portion 74A.

[0054] As shown in Figs. 8 and 9, the handle portion 75 is formed in an arch shape along the outer periphery of the flange portion 73. The handle portion 75 is rotatably supported by a pair of shaft portions 73A (see Figs. 8 and 9) protruding from both side surfaces in the width direction of the flange portion 73 perpendicular to the mounting direction D6 (see Fig. 9) of the filter unit 27 to the filter unit housing portion 48. The mounting direction D6 is the same direction as the protruding direction of the engaged portion 72B. As shown in Figs. 8 and 9, a pair of rotation restriction portions 76 are provided corresponding to the pair of shaft portions 73A. The pair of rotation restriction portions 76 are provided protruding from both side surfaces of the filter unit 27 in the width direction. That is, each of the rotation restriction portions 76 extends toward the outside of the filter unit 27 in the width direction. Each of the rotation restricting portions 76 has a first restricting portion 76A (see Figs. 8 and 9) extending forward from the rear diagonally lower side of the shaft portion 73A, and a second restricting portion 76B (see Figs. 8 and 9) extending upward from the rear diagonally lower side of the shaft portion 73A. The first restricting portion 76A comes into contact with the rotation base end of the handle portion 75 to restrict the rotation of the handle portion 75 in a first rotation direction D7 (see Fig. 8). The first restricting portion 76A supports the handle portion 75 in a first position (see Figs. 8 and 9) in which the handle portion 75 lies with its rotation tip facing forward. The second restricting portion 76B comes into contact with the handle portion 75 to restrict the rotation of the handle portion 75 in a second rotation direction D8 (see Fig. 9). The second rotation direction D8 is the opposite direction to the first rotation direction D7. For example, when the handle portion 75 is rotated in the second rotation direction D8 to a position restricted by the second restricting portion 76B, the handle portion 75 is in a second position in which the handle portion 75 stands up vertically. That is, the handle portion 75 is provided so as to be capable of changing its position between the first position and the second position. Each of the rotation restricting portions 76 is an example of a preferred embodiment of a protrusion of the present disclosure.

[0055] The filter member 62 is formed in a cylindrical shape with an inner diameter larger than the outer diameter of the protruding portion 74A (see FIG. 10). The filter member 62 is arranged inside the cylindrical portion 72 so as to be coaxial with the axis of the cylindrical portion 72. As shown in FIG. 10, the filter member 62 is formed in a size that closely contacts the bottom plate portion 71 and the lid portion 74, and divides the internal space of the filter container 61 into a first space that communicates with the water supply port 63 (see FIG. 8) and a second space that communicates with the drain port 64 (see FIG. 8). For example, the filter member 62 is configured in a two-layer structure having an outer layer made of a nonwoven fabric filter and an inner layer made of an activated carbon filter. The inner layer may be a hollow fiber membrane filter, a ceramic filter, a reverse osmosis membrane filter, an ion exchange resin filter, or the like. The filter member 62 may be configured in a single-layer structure or a multi-layer structure of three or more layers. When the filter member 62 has a multi-layer structure of three or more layers, the filter member 62 may include a plurality of filters of different types.

[0056] As shown in Fig. 8, the water supply port 63 is an extending end of a water passage 63A extending leftward from the water supply port 72A of the filter container 61. The water passage 63A is formed in a tubular shape, and connects the internal space of the filter container 61 with the outside. The water supply port 63 is used to supply water to the filter unit 27. The water supply port 63 is connected to the third water passage 26 via a connection part 26A (see Fig. 1) provided at one end of the third water passage 26.

[0057] As shown in Fig. 8, the drain outlet 64 is an extending end of a water passage 64A extending leftward from the drain outlet 74B of the filter container 61. The water passage 64A is formed in a tubular shape, and connects the internal space of the filter container 61 with the outside. The drain outlet 64 is used to drain water from the filter unit 27. The drain outlet 64 is connected to the fourth water passage 28 via a connection part 28A (see Fig. 1) provided at one end of the fourth water passage 28.

[0058] Fourth water passage 28 is a water passage that extends from filter unit 27 to first water supply section 41 of tank 21. Fourth water passage 28 is formed by a tubular member such as a resin hose. Second water passage 24, third water passage 26, and fourth water passage 28 connect drain port 11C of washing machine 1 to tank 21. Second pump 25 supplies wastewater discharged from washing machine 1 to tank 21 via second water passage 24, third water passage 26, and fourth water passage 28.

[0059] In the washing system 100, the tank 21, the first pump 22, the second pump 25, the third water passage 26, the filter unit 27, and the fourth water passage 28 are unitized. Specifically, in the washing system 100, the tank 21, the first pump 22, the second pump 25, the third water passage 26, the filter unit 27, and the fourth water passage 28 constitute a tank unit 30 (see FIG. 1). This makes it possible to collectively manage the tank 21, the first pump 22, the second pump 25, the third water passage 26, the filter unit 27, and the fourth water passage 28. In the washing system 100, the washing machine 1 drains water into the tank unit 30. In addition, in the washing system 100, the washing machine 1 is supplied with water from the tank unit 30. The tank unit 30 is an example of a preferred embodiment of the water purification device of the present disclosure. In addition, the filter unit 27 is an example of a preferred embodiment of the filter of the present disclosure.

[0060] Here, when the tank 21 and the filter unit 27 are unitized, if a configuration is adopted in which the filter unit 27 is attached to the flat outer surface of the tank 21, the filter unit 27 will protrude from the outer surface of the tank 21, and the tank unit 30 will be accordingly bulky. In other words, the storage ability of the tank unit 30 will decrease. That is, the tank unit 30 including the filter unit 27 and the tank 21 has a problem of needing to improve its storage ability. If the storage ability of the tank unit 30 decreases, the storage efficiency of a storage location such as a warehouse will decrease when a plurality of tank units 30 are stored in the storage location. In addition, if the filter unit 27 protrudes from the outer surface of the tank 21, the transportability of the tank unit 30 may also decrease.

[0061] In contrast to this, in the tank unit 30 according to the first embodiment, it is possible to suppress a decrease in the storage efficiency of the tank unit 30, as will be described below.

[0062] Specifically, as shown in FIG. 5, the tank 21 includes a pump housing portion 46, a waterway housing portion 47, and a filter unit housing portion 48.

[0063] As shown in FIG. 5, the pump accommodating section 46 is provided on the top surface 31 of the tank 21. Specifically, the pump accommodating section 46 is formed inside an area surrounded by the four support parts 45 on the top surface 31, on the rear side of the area (see FIG. 7). The pump accommodating section 46 is a recessed portion recessed downward. The second pump 25 is accommodated in the pump accommodating section 46 without protruding from the outer surface of the tank 21. Specifically, the pump accommodating section 46 is formed to be deeper than the height of the second pump 25. The pump accommodating section 46 may be a through-hole portion that penetrates the tank 21 in the up-down direction D1. In this case, the pump accommodating section 46 may have a support part that supports the second pump 25 on a wall surface that defines an accommodating space for the second pump 25. The pump accommodating section 46 may also be provided on the side surface 33 of the tank 21.

[0064] As shown in FIG. 1, the water channel housing 47 is provided on the left side surface portion 33 and the front side surface portion 33 of the tank 21. The water channel housing 47 is a groove portion extending along the outer periphery of the tank 21. Specifically, the water channel housing 47 extends downward from a corner between the top surface portion 31 and the left side surface portion 33 of the tank 21, bends in the front direction D4, and extends from the bent portion along the outer periphery of the tank 21 to a filter unit housing 48 provided on the front side surface portion 33. The third water channel 26 is housed in the water channel housing 47 without protruding from the left side surface and front surface of the tank 21.

[0065] As shown in FIG. 5, the filter unit accommodating section 48 is formed downward from the top surface of the tank 21, and defines an accommodation space 48A (see FIG. 5) for the filter unit 27 with an open upper side. The filter unit accommodating section 48 is formed concavely from a specific side surface section 33B (see FIG. 5) facing the front direction D4 (one example of a specific direction) of the tank 21 toward a rear direction D5 opposite to the front direction D4, and defines an accommodation space 48A for the filter unit 27 with an open front direction D4 side. Specifically, the filter unit accommodating section 48 is a cutout section in which a corner between the top surface section 31 and the specific side surface section 33B of the tank 21 is cut out. The filter unit accommodating section 48 opens upward and forward. At least a part of the filter unit 27 is accommodated in the filter unit accommodating section 48. For example, in the tank unit 30, the entire filter unit 27 is accommodated in the filter unit accommodating section 48. That is, the filter unit 27 is accommodated in the filter unit accommodating section 48 without protruding from the outer surface of the tank 21. The filter unit 27 is accommodated in the filter unit accommodating section 48 in a removably insertable manner. The filter unit accommodating section 48 is configured so that the filter unit 27 can be inserted and removed along the front-rear direction D2. The filter unit 27 is insertable and removable from the filter unit accommodating section 48. The filter unit accommodating section 48 is an example of a preferred embodiment of the accommodating section of the present disclosure. Note that only a portion of the filter unit 27 may be accommodated in the filter unit accommodating section 48.

[0066] As shown in FIG. 11, the filter unit housing 48 includes a first wall 51, a second wall 52, a third wall 53, and a floor 54. The first wall 51, the second wall 52, and the third wall 53 are each erected on the bottom surface 32 of the tank 21. The first wall 51, the second wall 52, and the third wall 53 are each formed at the same height as the specific side surface 33B. The first wall 51 and the second wall 52 are provided facing each other in the left-right direction D3 perpendicular to the forward direction D4. The first wall 51 is located to the right of the second wall 52. The first wall 51 and the second wall 52 are disposed at a distance corresponding to the size of the filter unit 27 in the left-right direction D3. The front end of the first wall 51 forms a corner with the specific side surface 33B. The front end of the second wall 52 forms a corner with the specific side surface 33B. The third wall portion 53 is provided extending along the left-right direction D3. The right end of the third wall portion 53 forms a corner with the first wall portion 51. The left end of the third wall portion 53 forms a corner with the second wall portion 52. The upper end of the first wall portion 51, the upper end of the second wall portion 52, and the upper end of the third wall portion 53 each form a corner with the top surface portion 31 of the tank 21 (see FIG. 5). The floor portion 54 is an area of ​​the bottom surface portion 32 of the tank 21 that is surrounded by the first wall portion 51, the second wall portion 52, and the third wall portion 53. The first wall portion 51, the second wall portion 52, the third wall portion 53, and the floor portion 54 define an accommodation space 48A for the filter unit 27. Additionally, the first wall portion 51, the second wall portion 52, and the third wall portion 53, together with the bottom surface portion 32 and the four side surface portions 33 of the tank 21, define a storage space within the tank 21. The floor portion 54 is located below the filter unit 27 housed in the housing space 48A.

[0067] By detachably accommodating filter unit 27 in filter unit accommodating portion 48, it is possible to make tank unit 30 compact. Here, in a configuration in which filter unit 27 is attached to filter unit accommodating portion 48, filter unit accommodating portion 48 is covered by filter unit 27 when filter unit 27 is attached to filter unit accommodating portion 48, making it difficult for the user to confirm the attachment position of filter unit 27 in filter unit accommodating portion 48 and difficult to attach filter unit 27 to tank 21.

[0068] In contrast, in the tank unit 30 according to the first embodiment, it is possible to facilitate the installation of the filter unit 27 in the tank 21, as will be described below.

[0069] As shown in FIG. 11, the filter unit accommodating portion 48 includes an engagement portion 55 and a guide portion 56 .

[0070] As shown in FIG. 11, the engaging portion 55 is provided on the third wall portion 53 of the filter unit housing portion 48. The engaging portion 55 engages with the engaged portion 72B (see FIG. 9) of the filter unit 27 housed in the filter unit housing portion 48. For example, the engaging portion 55 has a pair of opposing portions facing each other in the left-right direction D3, and a pair of bulging portions that bulge in a hemispherical shape toward the other opposing portion in each of the opposing portions. Meanwhile, a pair of fitting recesses that fit with the pair of bulging portions are formed on both sides of the engaged portion 72B in the left-right direction D3. The engaged portion 72B is inserted between the pair of facing portions. As a result, the pair of fitting recesses of the engaged portion 72B fit with the pair of bulging portions of the engaging portion 55, and the engaging portion 55 and the engaged portion 72B are engaged with each other.

[0071] Guide portion 56 is provided in filter unit accommodating portion 48, and guides filter unit 27 accommodated in filter unit accommodating portion 48 toward the mounting position. The mounting position is a position where engaged portion 72B of filter unit 27 engages with engaging portion 55. The mounting position is an example of a preferred embodiment of the accommodation position of the present disclosure. As shown in FIG. 11, guide portion 56 includes a pair of guide pieces 81, two linear protrusions 82, and four recesses 83.

[0072] As shown in FIG. 11, the two linear protrusions 82 protrude from the floor portion 54 and extend along the rear direction D5. The two linear protrusions 82 are arranged at an interval in the left-right direction D3. The two linear protrusions 82 function as a support portion 84 (see FIG. 11) that supports the filter unit 27 slidably along the rear direction D5. Specifically, the two linear protrusions 82 contact the bottom plate portion 71 (see FIG. 8) of the filter unit 27 to slidably support the filter unit 27. The guide portion 56 may include three or more linear protrusions 82.

[0073] The pair of guide pieces 81 are provided in the filter unit housing 48 on both sides in the width direction of the filter unit 27 housed in the filter unit housing 48, and extend along the front-rear direction D2 in a plan view. Specifically, as shown in Figs. 5 and 11, the pair of guide pieces 81 protrude from each of the first wall portion 51 and the second wall portion 52 that face each other in the left-right direction D3 among the first wall portion 51, the second wall portion 52, and the third wall portion 53 that divide the housing space 48A, and extend along the rear direction D5. The pair of guide pieces 81 are formed in a wall shape that divides the wall surfaces of the first wall portion 51 and the second wall portion 52. As shown in Fig. 11, the pair of guide pieces 81 extend to the third wall portion 53, and the respective extending ends are connected to the third wall portion 53. The pair of guide pieces 81 are provided on the first wall portion 51, the second wall portion 52, and the third wall portion 53 so as to form a U-shape in top view. The pair of guide pieces 81 contact the filter unit 27 housed in the filter unit housing portion 48. The pair of guide pieces 81 function as a restricting portion 85 (see FIG. 11 ) that restricts movement of the filter unit 27 supported by the two linear protrusions 82 in the left-right direction D3. Specifically, the pair of guide pieces 81 contact both side portions of the filter unit 27 in the left-right direction D3 to restrict movement of the filter unit 27 in the left-right direction D3. The pair of guide pieces 81 and the two linear protrusions 82 guide the filter unit 27 to the mounting position.

[0074] The pair of guide pieces 81 guide the filter unit 27 toward the mounting position in the filter unit accommodating section 48 when the filter unit 27 is accommodated in the filter unit accommodating section 48. Specifically, the pair of guide pieces 81 guide the pair of rotation restriction sections 76 when the filter unit 27 is inserted or removed. Each of the rotation restriction sections 76 is guided by each of the pair of guide pieces 81. The pair of guide pieces 81 is an example of a preferred embodiment of the guide section of the present disclosure. Each of the rotation restriction sections 76 is an example of a preferred embodiment of the guided section of the present disclosure.

[0075] For example, the pair of guide pieces 81 are provided so that the bottom surface of the filter unit 27 and the two linear protrusions 82 provided on the floor portion 54 are spaced apart from each other during at least a portion of the period until the filter unit 27 is guided by the pair of guide pieces 81 and accommodated in the mounting position. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 11 and FIG. 13, the pair of guide pieces 81 have a pair of inclined portions 81A and a pair of horizontal portions 81B. Each of the horizontal portions 81B extends in a substantially horizontal direction. Each of the inclined portions 81A is located in front of the horizontal portion 81B. Each of the inclined portions 81A is inclined upward from the horizontal portion 81B toward the front side. The pair of inclined portions 81A are formed to incline obliquely downward along the rear direction D5, support the pair of rotation restriction portions 76 of the filter unit 27 at both ends, and guide the filter unit 27 toward the mounting position and guide it to the two linear protrusions 82. That is, the pair of inclined portions 81A function as support portions 84 (see FIG. 11) that support the filter unit 27 so that it can slide along the rear direction D5. Specifically, the pair of inclined portions 81A guide the filter unit 27 diagonally downward along the rear direction D5 until the filter unit 27 comes into contact with the two linear protrusions 82. This allows the filter unit 27 to move toward the mounting position under its own weight. In addition, it is possible to restrict movement of the filter unit 27 arranged at the mounting position in the forward direction D4.

[0076] When the filter unit 27 descends to a position where it contacts the two linear protrusions 82, the pair of inclined portions 81A ends supporting the pair of rotation restriction portions 76 of the filter unit 27 at both ends. That is, the filter unit 27 is supported by the two linear protrusions 82 in a state where it is floating above the pair of guide pieces 81. Of the pair of guide pieces 81, the pair of horizontal portions 81B may function as support portions 84 instead of the two linear protrusions 82. That is, the pair of guide pieces 81 may be provided such that the bottom surface of the filter unit 27 and the two linear protrusions 82 provided on the floor portion 54 are spaced apart from each other throughout the entire period until the filter unit 27 is guided by the pair of guide pieces 81 and accommodated in the mounting position.

[0077] Here, each of the rotation restricting parts 76 has a part that comes into surface contact with the inclined part 81A until the filter unit 27 reaches the mounting position. Specifically, each of the bottom parts of the first restricting parts 76A of the rotation restricting parts 76 has a contact surface 76C (see FIG. 8 and FIG. 13) that comes into surface contact with the inclined part 81A and slides the filter unit 27 in the same posture as the posture supported by the two linear convex parts 82. As shown in FIG. 13, the contact surface 76C is formed on the front direction D4 side of the bottom part of the first restricting part 76A. Specifically, the contact surface 76C is formed so as to be inclined downward along the rear direction D5 from the end part of the first restricting part 76A in the front direction D4. The downward inclination angle of the contact surface 76C along the rear direction D5 is the same angle as the downward inclination angle of the inclined part 81A along the rear direction D5. This makes it possible to stabilize the posture of the filter unit 27 guided by the guide part 56 to the mounting position.

[0078] As shown in Figures 5 and 11, four recesses 83 are provided in the floor 54 of the filter unit accommodating section 48. The four recesses 83 are provided corresponding to the four legs 71A (see Figure 8) of the filter unit 27. Specifically, each of the recesses 83 is formed with a size capable of accommodating the legs 71A. Moreover, the four recesses 83 are disposed in positions on the floor 54 facing the four legs 71A of the filter unit 27 disposed in the mounting position. Each of the recesses 83 is formed so that the size in the left-right direction D3 is slightly larger than that of the legs 71A. Moreover, each of the recesses 83 is formed long in the front-rear direction D2.

[0079] The four recesses 83 accommodate the four legs 71A of the filter unit 27 arranged at the mounting position. Each recess 83 restricts movement of the accommodated legs 71A in the left-right direction D3. That is, the four recesses 83 function as restricting portions 85 (see FIG. 11 ) that restrict movement of the filter unit 27 supported by the two linear protrusions 82 in the left-right direction D3. The four recesses 83 also allow movement of the four legs 71A in the forward direction D4 within a certain range in association with movement of the filter unit 27 arranged at the mounting position in the forward direction D4.

[0080] Here, the inclination angle of the pair of inclined portions 81A is set so that each of the leg portions 71A of the filter unit 27 can be guided from the recess 83 to the obliquely upper front side of the recess 83 without colliding with the front edge of the recess 83. For example, the pair of inclined portions 81A is a gentle slope. For example, the downward inclination angle of the pair of inclined portions 81A along the rear direction D5 is set within a range of 5 degrees to 30 degrees. This allows the pair of inclined portions 81A to smoothly guide each of the leg portions 71A of the filter unit 27 from the obliquely upper front side of the recess 83 to the recess 83.

[0081] As shown in Fig. 5, the filter unit accommodating section 48 is provided on the inside of both ends of the particular side surface portion 33B in the left-right direction D3. As a result, the front portion of the tank 21 is separated into a first section 35 (see Fig. 5) and a second section 36 (see Fig. 5) by the filter unit accommodating section 48. In other words, the tank 21 has the first section 35 and the second section 36 separated in the left-right direction D3 by the filter unit accommodating section 48. The first section 35 is located to the right of the second section 36.

[0082] Here, as shown in Fig. 5, at least two of the four support parts 45 are disposed on the front direction D4 side of the top surface part 31 of the tank 21, one of the first support parts 45A (see Fig. 5) is disposed on the top surface of the first part 35, and the other of the second support parts 45B (see Fig. 5) is disposed on the top surface of the second part 36. That is, the filter unit accommodating part 48 is provided between the first support part 45A and the second support part 45B. This makes it possible to reduce the size of the tank 21 in the front-rear direction D2, compared to a configuration in which the filter unit accommodating part 48 is provided on the front direction D4 side of the first support part 45A and the second support part 45B.

[0083] 7, first support portion 45A and second support portion 45B are arranged such that imaginary line L1 (see FIG. 7) connecting first support portion 45A and second support portion 45B intersects first wall portion 51 and second wall portion 52 in top view. This makes it possible to expose a part of the front side of filter unit accommodating portion 48 to the outside of washing machine 1 in top view. Therefore, it is possible to facilitate access by a user of laundry system 100 to filter unit 27 accommodated in filter unit accommodating portion 48, compared to a configuration in which filter unit accommodating portion 48 is arranged rearward of imaginary line L1.

[0084] 1, 6, and 8, the filter unit 27 has a water supply port 63 facing the second wall portion 52. This makes it possible for the first wall portion 51 to restrict rightward movement of the filter unit 27 caused by the force of water supplied to the filter unit 27. Therefore, it is possible to more stably hold the filter unit 27 by the filter unit accommodating portion 48 compared to a configuration in which the water supply port 63 faces the third wall portion 53. The water supply port 63 may face the first wall portion 51.

[0085] Thus, in the tank unit 30, the tank 21 includes a filter unit housing portion 48 in which the filter unit 27 is housed without protruding from the outer surface of the tank 21. This makes it possible to prevent a decrease in the collapsibility when storing a plurality of tank units 30 in a warehouse or the like.

[0086] Furthermore, in the tank unit 30, the filter unit 27 is detachably housed in the filter unit housing portion 48. This allows the filter unit 27 to be held in the filter unit housing portion 48.

[0087] In tank unit 30, tank 21 is formed into a flat rectangular parallelepiped shape along bottom surface portion 32, and filter unit accommodating portion 48 formed downward from the top surface of tank 21 forms accommodating space 48A for filter unit 27 with an open upper side. This makes it easier for the user of laundry system 100 to access filter unit 27 accommodated in filter unit accommodating portion 48, compared to a case in which an accommodating space for filter unit 27 with only the lateral side of tank 21 being open is formed in either side surface portion 33 of tank 21.

[0088] In addition, in laundry system 100, washing machine 1 is placed on top surface 31 of tank 21, and filter unit accommodating portion 48 is a cutout portion formed by cutting out a corner between top surface 31 and specific side surface portion 33B of tank 21. This makes it possible to avoid the washing machine 1 placed on top surface 31 of tank 21 restricting the access of the user of laundry system 100 to filter unit 27 accommodated in filter unit accommodating portion 48.

[0089] In addition, in the tank unit 30, each of the support parts 45 is a recess that is recessed downward. This makes it possible to restrict the movement of the leg part 11D of the washing machine 1 supported by the support parts 45 along the horizontal direction.

[0090] Furthermore, in the tank unit 30, the filter unit 27 purifies the wastewater before it is stored in the tank 21. This makes it possible to prevent the inside of the tank 21 from becoming dirty.

[0091] Moreover, in the tank unit 30, the tank 21 includes a pump housing portion 46 in which the second pump 25 is housed without protruding from the outer surface of the tank 21. This makes it possible to suppress a decrease in collapsibility when storing a plurality of tank units 30 in a warehouse or the like, compared to a configuration in which the second pump 25 protrudes from the outer surface of the tank 21.

[0092] Moreover, in the tank unit 30, the first pump 22 is held inside the tank 21. This makes it possible to suppress a decrease in collapsibility when storing a plurality of tank units 30 in a warehouse or the like, compared to a configuration in which the first pump 22 protrudes from the outer surface of the tank 21.

[0093] Moreover, in the tank unit 30, the filter unit accommodating portion 48 includes a guide portion 56 that guides the filter unit 27 accommodated in the filter unit accommodating portion 48 toward the mounting position. This makes it possible to facilitate the mounting operation of the filter unit 27 in the tank 21.

[0094] Moreover, in the tank unit 30, the filter unit accommodating portion 48 defines an accommodating space 48A that is open on the forward direction D4 side, and the guide portion 56 includes a support portion 84 that supports the filter unit 27 slidably along the rear direction D5, and a restricting portion 85 that restricts movement of the filter unit 27 supported by the support portion 84 in the left-right direction D3. As a result, compared to a configuration in which the filter unit 27 is inserted and removed along the up-down direction D1, it is not necessary to manually support the weight of the filter unit 27 when the filter unit 27 is inserted and removed, and therefore it is possible to reduce the effort required when inserting and removing the filter unit 27.

[0095] Furthermore, in the tank unit 30, a pair of guide pieces 81 provided on the first wall portion 51 and the second wall portion 52 function as a restricting portion 85. As a result, compared to a configuration in which the restricting portion 85 is provided on the floor portion 54, the restricting portion 85 is not covered by the filter unit 27, so that the filter unit 27 can easily be guided by the guide portion 56.

[0096] Moreover, in the tank unit 30, the two linear protrusions 82 provided on the floor portion 54 function as support portions 84. This makes it possible to reduce frictional resistance between the filter unit 27 and the support portions 84, compared to a configuration in which the floor portion 54 functions as the support portion 84 (the floor portion 54 is in surface contact with the bottom surface of the filter unit 27).

[0097] Furthermore, in the tank unit 30, the filter unit accommodating portion 48 includes an engagement portion 55. This allows the filter unit 27 to be held stably by the filter unit accommodating portion 48.

[0098] The water stored in tank 21 is not limited to tap water, and may be rainwater, river water, lake water, or pond water. For example, when laundry system 100 is used in a place where tap water cannot be used, such as a disaster area, rainwater, river water, lake water, or pond water may be stored in tank 21. This makes it possible to wash the laundry even in a place where tap water cannot be used.

[0099] Furthermore, the tank unit 30 may be used in a system other than a laundry system, such as a bath system including a bath device.

[0100] [Variations] Filter unit accommodating section 48 may be disposed behind imaginary line L1 (see FIG. 7). In other words, filter unit accommodating section 48 may be disposed within a region surrounded by four support sections 45.

[0101] Furthermore, the filter unit accommodating portion 48 may be provided on the front direction D4 side relative to the first support portion 45A (see FIG. 7) and the second support portion 45B (see FIG. 7).

[0102] Moreover, the filter unit accommodating portion 48 may be a recess that defines an accommodating space that is open only upward in the top surface portion 31 of the tank 21. Moreover, the filter unit accommodating portion 48 may be a through-hole portion that penetrates the tank 21 in the up-down direction D1.

[0103] Moreover, the filter unit accommodating portion 48 may be a recess that defines an accommodating space that is open only in the forward direction D4 in the particular side surface portion 33B of the tank 21. Moreover, the filter unit accommodating portion 48 may be provided in one of the four side surface portions 33 that is different from the particular side surface portion 33B.

[0104] Furthermore, the filter unit accommodating portion 48 does not necessarily have to include the engagement portion 55 .

[0105] Furthermore, the filter unit 27 may include a water supply port 63 facing the third wall portion 53 of the filter unit housing portion 48 .

[0106] Furthermore, each of the support portions 45 of the tank 21 may be a convex portion that protrudes upward.

[0107] As shown in FIG. 14, the tank 21 may be disposed on the right or left side of the washing machine 1. In this case, the tank 21 may be formed in a rectangular parallelepiped shape that is long in the up-down direction D1 as shown in FIG. As shown in FIG. 14, a plurality of casters 32A may be provided on the bottom surface portion 32 of the tank 21. As shown in FIG. 14, the filter unit accommodating portion 48 may be a recess that partitions an accommodating space that is open only in the forward direction D4 in the specific side surface portion 33B of the tank 21. As shown in FIG. 14, the pump accommodating portion 46 may be a through-hole portion that penetrates the tank 21 in the left-right direction D3.

[0108] The filter unit 27 may also purify the water discharged from the tank 21 .

[0109] Additionally, the water passage housing 47 may include a groove portion extending from the pump housing portion 46 to the left side surface portion 33 of the tank 21. This allows the third water passage 26 to be housed in the water passage housing portion 47 without protruding from the top surface of the tank 21. Additionally, the tank 21 may include a groove portion in which the fourth water passage 28 is housed without protruding from the top surface of the tank 21.

[0110] Furthermore, the washing machine 1 does not necessarily have to include the ionized water supply unit 16B and the neutralization unit 17C. That is, the washing system 100 may wash (rinse) the laundry using neutral water.

[0111] Moreover, the washing machine 1 is not limited to a so-called drum type washing machine, but may be a so-called vertical type washing machine.

[0112] Incidentally, in a configuration in which the wastewater discharged from the washing machine 1 is purified by the filter unit 27 and the purified wastewater is stored in the tank 21, if the cleanliness of the wastewater in the tank 21 cannot be confirmed, the user cannot confidently reuse the wastewater in the tank 21.

[0113] In contrast, in the laundry system 100 according to the second embodiment, it is possible to check the cleanliness of the purified wastewater stored in the tank 21, as described below.

[0114] [Second embodiment] Next, a configuration of a laundry system 100 according to a second embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

[0115] The washing system 100 according to the second embodiment is different from the washing system 100 according to the first embodiment in that it includes a light-transmitting part 50 shown in Fig. 15. Other points are common between the washing system 100 according to the first embodiment and the washing system 100 according to the second embodiment.

[0116] The tank 21 has a light-transmitting portion 50 that is provided so that the inside of the tank 21 can be seen.

[0117] 15, the tank 21 is formed with a through hole 50A that connects the inside of the tank 21 to the outside of the tank 21 and has a light-transmitting portion 50 attached thereto. The through hole 50A is formed in the side portion 33 of the tank 21. The light-transmitting portion 50 closes the through hole 50A. The light-transmitting portion 50 is transparent. For example, the light-transmitting portion 50 is formed of glass or a synthetic resin.

[0118] 15, the light-transmitting portion 50 is formed on the side portion 33, which is the peripheral wall of the tank 21, and has an elongated shape along the outer circumferential direction of the tank 21 intersecting with the vertical direction (up-down direction D1). As a result, compared to a configuration in which the light-transmitting portion 50 is formed elongated in the vertical direction, the display range of the inside of the tank 21 by the light-transmitting portion 50 is wider in the outer circumferential direction, making it easier to check the cleanliness of the wastewater in the tank 21.

[0119] Further, the light-transmitting portion 50 is provided across one side surface portion 33 and another side surface portion 33 extending in a direction inclined with respect to the side surface portion 33. Specifically, as shown in Fig. 15, the light-transmitting portion 50 is formed across the left side surface portion 33 and the specific side surface portion 33B that are adjacent in the circumferential direction among the multiple side surface portions 33 connected in the circumferential direction in the tank 21. This makes it possible to check the cleanliness of the wastewater in the tank 21 from both the front side and the left side side of the tank 21, as compared to a configuration in which the light-transmitting portion 50 is formed on one side surface portion 33.

[0120] Moreover, the light-transmitting portion 50 includes a portion located above the center in the vertical direction of the tank 21. Specifically, as shown in Fig. 15, the light-transmitting portion 50 is disposed such that the center in the vertical direction of the light-transmitting portion 50 is located above the center in the vertical direction of the tank 21. As a result, compared to a configuration in which the center in the vertical direction of the light-transmitting portion 50 is located below the center in the vertical direction of the tank 21, the inclination angle of the line of sight of a user looking at the light-transmitting portion 50 from diagonally above with respect to the horizontal plane is smaller, and therefore it is possible to check the inside of the tank 21 over a wider area.

[0121] 15, the light-transmitting section 50 is provided below the first water supply section 41 in the tank 21. That is, the light-transmitting section 50 is arranged to allow visual confirmation of the area located below the first water supply section 41 in the tank 21. This allows the user to check whether or not there has been a decrease in the function of the filter unit 27 by comparing with a configuration in which the area located below the first water supply section 41 in the tank 21 is not visible.

[0122] Here, in the washing system 100 according to the second embodiment, the first water passage 23, the second water passage 24, the third water passage 26, and the fourth water passage 28 are all translucent. Specifically, the first water passage 23, the second water passage 24, the third water passage 26, and the fourth water passage 28 are each formed of a transparent tubular member. This makes it possible to check the progress of the washing operation of the washing machine 1 from the movement of water in the water circulation device 2, compared to a configuration in which the first water passage 23, the second water passage 24, the third water passage 26, and the fourth water passage 28 are all not translucent. Note that the first water passage 23, the second water passage 24, the third water passage 26, and the fourth water passage 28 may be partially translucent.

[0123] As described above, in the laundry system 100 according to the second embodiment, the tank 21 includes the light-transmitting portion 50. This allows the user to check the cleanliness of the purified wastewater stored in the tank 21.

[0124] [Variations] The light-transmitting portion 50 may be semi-transparent. The light-transmitting portion 50 may be provided on the top surface 31 of the tank 21.

[0125] 16, the tank 21 may be disposed on the right or left side of the washing machine 1. In this case, the tank 21 may be formed in a rectangular parallelepiped shape that is elongated in the up-down direction D1 as shown in Fig. 16. As shown in Fig. 16, the light-transmitting portion 50 may be formed across three or more side surface portions 33 that are continuous in the circumferential direction.

[0126] As shown in FIG. 17, the light transmitting portion 50 may include a first portion 50B that is elongated in the circumferential direction, and a second portion 50C that is elongated in the vertical direction.

[0127] [Notes on the invention] The following will provide an overview of the invention extracted from the above-described embodiment. Note that the configurations and processing functions described in the following supplementary notes can be selected and combined as desired.

[0128] <Appendix 1> A water purification device comprising a tank for storing water and a filter for purifying the water stored in the tank, the tank having a storage section for storing the filter, and a guide section for guiding the filter toward its storage position in the storage section when the filter is stored in the storage section.

[0129] <Appendix 2> The water purification device described in Appendix 1, wherein the storage section is configured so that the filter can be inserted and removed along a certain direction, and the guide section is provided on each side of the width of the filter stored in the storage section, and has a pair of guide pieces that extend along the certain direction in a plan view, and the pair of guide pieces contact the stored filter.

[0130] <Appendix 3> The water purification device described in Appendix 2, wherein each of the pair of guide pieces includes a horizontal portion extending approximately horizontally and an inclined portion located in front of the horizontal portion and inclining upward from the horizontal portion toward the front.

[0131] <Appendix 4> The water purification device described in Appendix 3, wherein the filter has a guided portion that is guided by each of the pair of guide pieces, and the guided portion has a portion that comes into surface contact with the inclined portion before the filter reaches the storage position.

[0132] <Appendix 5> A water purifier described in any of Appendices 1 to 4, wherein the storage section has a floor section located below the filter, and the guide section is arranged so that the bottom surface of the filter is separated from the floor section during at least a portion of the period until the filter is guided by the guide section and stored in the storage position.

[0133] <Appendix 6> A laundry system comprising: the water purifier according to any one of claims 1 to 5; and a washing machine that drains water into the water purifier.

[0134] <Appendix 7> A tank for storing water, comprising: a storage section for storing a filter that purifies the water stored in the tank; and a guide section for guiding the filter toward its storage position in the storage section when the filter is stored in the storage section. [Explanation of symbols]

[0135] 1. Washing machine 2 Water circulation device 11. Cabinet 12 Doors 13 Washing tub 14 Rotating Drum 15 Motor 16 Water supply channel 17 Drainage Channel 18 Drying section 19 Operation display section 20 Control section 21 Tank 22 First Pump 23 First waterway 24 2nd waterway 25 Second Pump 26 Third waterway 27 Filter Unit 28 4th waterway 30 Tank Unit 31 Top section 32 Bottom part 33 Side part 34 Ribs 35 Part 1 36 Part 2 41 1st water supply section 42 1st drainage section 43 2nd water supply section 44 2nd drainage section 45 Support part 46 Pump housing 47 Waterway accommodation section 48 Filter unit housing 49 Pump holder 50 Translucent part 51 1st wall 52 2nd wall section 53 Third wall 54 Floor 55 Engagement part 56 Guide part 61 Filter Container 62 Filter material 63 Water inlet 64 Drain 71 Bottom plate part 72 Cylindrical part 73 Flange 74 Lid 75 Handle 76 Rotation control part 81 Guide piece 82 Linear convex part 83 Recess 84 Support part 85 Regulatory Department 100 Washing System

Claims

1. A tank for storing water; a filter for purifying the water stored in the tank; Equipped with The tank is A housing portion in which the filter is housed; a guide portion that guides the filter toward a filter accommodation position in the accommodation portion when the filter is accommodated in the accommodation portion; A water purification device having the above structure.

2. The filter is inserted into and removed from the storage section in one direction. The guide portion is provided on each of both sides in the width direction of the filter accommodated in the accommodation portion, and has a pair of guide pieces extending along the one direction in a plan view, and the pair of guide pieces contacts the accommodated filter. The water purification device according to claim 1 .

3. Each of the pair of guide pieces is A horizontal portion extending substantially horizontally; an inclined portion located in front of the horizontal portion and inclined upward from the horizontal portion toward the front; The water purification device of claim 2 .

4. the filter has a guided portion that is guided by each of the pair of guide pieces, The guided portion has a portion that comes into surface contact with the inclined portion until the filter reaches the storage position. The water purifier according to claim 3.

5. The housing has a floor located below the filter, The guide portion is provided so that a bottom surface of the filter is spaced apart from the floor portion during at least a part of a period until the filter is guided by the guide portion and accommodated in the accommodation position. The water purification device according to claim 1 .

6. A water purifier according to any one of claims 1 to 5, A washing machine that drains water into the water purification device; A laundry system comprising:

7. A tank for storing water, a storage section for storing a filter for purifying the water stored in the tank; a guide portion that guides the filter toward a filter accommodation position in the accommodation portion when the filter is accommodated in the accommodation portion; A tank comprising:

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