Washing machine

Abstract

To provide a washing machine capable of suppressing remaining of a liquid agent in a liquid agent discharge flow passage.SOLUTION: A washing machine includes: a washing tub; a water supply device; a liquid agent tank for storing a liquid agent which is supplied to the washing tub; a guide flow passage for guiding the liquid agent and water to the washing tub; a pipe part connected between the water supply device and the guide flow passage, and configured to supply the water supplied from the water supply device to the guide flow passage; and a liquid agent supply device including a discharge part which discharges the liquid agent stored in the liquid agent tank to the inside flow passage of the pipe part. The pipe part includes: an upstream pipe extending in the direction containing a first horizontal direction component; a downstream pipe extending in the direction containing a second horizontal direction component which is reverse from the first horizontal direction; and a bent part which is bent and connects the upstream pipe and the downstream pipe. The discharge part of the liquid agent supply device is connected to the downstream pipe.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 5B

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a washing machine.

Background Art

[0002] For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a washing machine including a washing tub, a water supply device, a liquid agent tank containing a liquid agent, a case for guiding water and the liquid agent to the washing tub, a pipe portion for supplying water from the water supply device to the case, and a liquid agent pump for discharging the liquid agent into the pipe portion.

[0003] In the washing machine described in Patent Document 1, the pipe portion has a bent portion, and the discharge portion of the liquid agent pump is connected to the pipe portion upstream of the bent portion.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] However, in the washing machine described in Patent Document 1, there is still room for improvement in terms of the remaining liquid agent in the pipe portion.

[0006] Therefore, an object of the present disclosure is to solve the above problems and to suppress the remaining liquid agent in the pipe portion.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0007] A washing machine according to one aspect of the present disclosure includes a washing tub, a water supply device, a chemical tank for storing chemicals to be supplied to the washing tub, a guide flow path for guiding the chemicals and water to the washing tub, a pipe portion connected between the water supply device and the guide flow path for supplying water supplied from the water supply device to the guide flow path, and a chemical supply device having a discharge portion for discharging the chemicals stored in the chemical tank into the internal flow path of the pipe portion. The pipe portion has an upstream pipe extending in a direction including a first horizontal direction component, a downstream pipe extending in a direction including a second horizontal direction component opposite to the first horizontal direction, and a bent portion that bends to connect between the upstream pipe and the downstream pipe. The discharge portion of the chemical supply device is connected to the downstream pipe.

Advantages of the Invention

[0008] According to the present disclosure, a washing machine that suppresses the residue of chemicals in the pipe portion can be provided.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0009]

Figure 1A

Figure 1B

Figure 2A

Figure 2B

Figure 3

Figure 4

Figure 5A

Figure 5B

Figure 6

Figure 7A

Figure 7B

Figure 8

Modes for Carrying Out the Invention

[0010] (Embodiment 1) The washing machine according to Embodiment 1 of the present disclosure will be described.

[0011] [Overall Configuration] FIG. 1A is a perspective view of a washing machine 1 according to Embodiment 1 of the present disclosure. FIG. 1B is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the washing machine 1 according to Embodiment 1 of the present disclosure. As shown in FIG. 1A, the washing machine 1 is a vertical washing machine, but is not limited thereto. The washing machine 1 may be a drum-type washing machine or a washer-dryer.

[0012] In the following drawings, the horizontal direction orthogonal to each other is defined as the X direction / Y direction, and the vertical direction orthogonal to both the X direction and the Y direction is defined as the Z direction. The horizontal direction and the vertical direction are respectively the horizontal direction and the vertical direction in a state where the washing machine 1 is used in a self-standing manner. Note that the X direction may be referred to as the width direction, and the Y direction may be referred to as the front-rear direction.

[0013] As shown in FIGS. 1A and 1B, the washing machine 1 includes a housing 2, an outer tub 3 (FIG. 1B), a washing tub 4, a drive unit 5 (FIG. 1B), a chemical supply unit 6, a water supply device 9 (FIG. 1B), a drain valve 11 (FIG. 1B), and a control unit 12 (FIG. 1B).

[0014] [Housing] The housing 2 is a member that forms the appearance of the washing machine 1. The housing 2 is divided into an upper part 2A and a lower part 2B below the upper part 2A. An opening 20 and an openable / closable lid 21 that covers the opening 20 are provided on the upper surface of the upper part 2A. The upper part 2A houses the chemical supply unit 6, the water supply device 9, and the control unit 12. The lower part 2B houses the outer tub 3, the washing tub 4, the drive unit 5, and the drain valve 11. Note that the control unit 12 may be housed in the lower part 2B instead of the upper part 2A.

[0015] [Outer Tub] As shown in FIG. 1B, the outer tub 3 is provided inside the lower part 2B of the housing 2 and is a substantially cylindrical member having a function of storing washing water. The outer tub 3 may be referred to as a water tank. The central axis V0 of the outer tub 3 extends along the Z direction and passes through the center of the bottom of the outer tub 3. The outer tub 3 has an opening 30 at a position facing the opening 20 of the housing 2.

[0016] <Washing tub> The washing tub 4 is provided rotatably about the central axis V0 inside the outer tub 3, and is a substantially cylindrical member for accommodating laundry such as clothes. The washing tub 4 may be referred to as an inner tub, a storage tub, or a drum. A number of through holes 40 are formed in the washing tub 4. The through holes 40 communicate the washing tub 4 with the outer tub 3, and enable the movement of washing water between the washing tub 4 and the outer tub 3. The washing tub 4 has an opening 41 at a position facing the opening 20 of the housing 2 and the opening 30 of the outer tub 3. When the user of the washing machine 1 opens the lid 21, the user can put laundry into the washing tub 4 through the openings 20, 30, and 41.

[0017] <Drive unit> The drive unit 5 is a member that rotationally drives the washing tub 4 about the central axis V0. The drive unit 5 has, for example, a motor that rotates the washing tub 4.

[0018] <Detergent supply unit> The detergent supply unit 6 is a device that automatically supplies a single dose of detergent from a tank storing a plurality of doses of detergent to the washing tub 4. The single dose of detergent is, for example, an appropriate amount and type of detergent determined by the control unit 12 according to the content of the operation course and the amount of laundry.

[0019] The detergent supply unit 6 is arranged on the back side with respect to the central axis V0 in the Y direction, and is arranged so as to overlap a part of the opening 41 of the washing tub 4.

[0020] <Water supply device> The water supply device 9 is a device connected to a water source such as a water supply, and supplies water to the washing tub 4. Specifically, the water supply device 9 supplies water to the washing tub 4 via the detergent supply unit 6.

[0021] <Drain valve> The drain valve 11 is a valve configured to be openable and closable. When closed, it stores water in the outer tub 3, and when opened, it drains the water stored in the outer tub 3. The drain valve 11 is provided at the bottom of the lower part 2B.

[0022] <Control unit> The control unit 12 is a controller that controls the washing machine 1. The control unit 12 includes a general-purpose processor such as a CPU or an MPU that realizes a predetermined function by executing a program. The control unit 12 realizes various controls in the washing machine 1 by calling and executing a program stored in a memory (not shown). The control unit 12 is not limited to one that realizes a predetermined function by the cooperation of hardware and software, and may be a hardware circuit designed specifically to realize a predetermined function.

[0023] Specifically, the control unit 12 controls the drive unit 5, the chemical supply unit 6, the water supply device 9, and the drain valve 11.

[0024] FIGS. 2A and 2B are perspective views of the chemical supply unit 6 and the water supply device 9. FIG. 3 is an exploded view of the case 61.

[0025] As shown in FIGS. 2A and 2B, the chemical supply unit 6 includes a case 61, a plurality of chemical tanks 62 (FIG. 2A), a plurality of chemical pumps 63, and a pipe portion 64 (FIG. 2B).

[0026] As shown in FIG. 3, the case 61 has two members divided vertically, a tank accommodation portion 61A and a flow path portion 61B. The tank accommodation portion 61A is a member that accommodates a plurality of chemical tanks 62. In Embodiment 1, the tank accommodation portion 61A accommodates three chemical tanks 62 arranged in the X direction (see FIG. 2A). The flow path portion 61B is a member that forms a flow path for guiding a liquid toward the washing tub 4.

[0027] As shown in FIG. 2A, each of the plurality of chemical tanks 62 is a container that stores a plurality of portions of the chemical to be supplied to the washing tub 4 in an operation course. Each chemical tank 62 may store different types of chemicals or the same type of chemicals.

[0028] Each chemical tank 62 is detachable from the tank accommodation portion 61A so that the user can easily clean the inside or replenish the chemical.

[0029] As shown in FIG. 2B, the +Y side wall portion of the case 61 (the tank housing portion 61A and the flow path portion 61B), that is, the rear wall of the case 61, is defined as the pump penetration surface 61C. The pump penetration surface 61C of the case 61 is the side wall of the case 61 facing the back surface of the housing 2 (FIG. 1B). A plurality of liquid chemical pumps 63 and a pipe portion 64 are provided on the pump penetration surface 61C of the case 61.

[0030] The liquid chemical pump 63 is a device that sucks a predetermined amount of liquid chemical from the liquid chemical tank 62 and discharges it into the pipe portion 64. The liquid chemical pump 63 is connected to the liquid chemical tank 62 and the pipe portion 64. Each of the liquid chemical pumps 63 penetrates the pump penetration surface 61C of the case 61 and is connected to one liquid chemical tank 62 from the Y direction. The liquid chemical pump 63 is disposed directly above the pipe portion 64 and is connected to the pipe portion 64 from above. Therefore, the liquid chemical pump 63 sucks the liquid chemical in the Y direction and discharges it downward.

[0031] In this specification, "connected" includes both the case of direct connection and the case of connection via other members or spaces.

[0032] The plurality of liquid chemical pumps 63 are arranged at intervals in the X direction. In Embodiment 1, the plurality of liquid chemical pumps 63 have a common structure.

[0033] The pipe portion 64 is a tubular member that connects between the water supply device 9 and the flow path portion 61B and supplies the water supplied from the water supply device 9 to the flow path portion 61B. In Embodiment 1, the pipe portion 64 is connected to the water supply device 9 via a water supply pipe 92 (to be described later) in the tank housing portion 61A. That is, the water supplied from the water supply device 9 passes through the water supply pipe 92 and flows into the pipe portion 64. The pipe portion 64 has an internal flow path R0 through which water flows inside.

[0034] The liquid chemical pump 63 is further connected to the pipe portion 64 and receives the liquid chemical discharged from the liquid chemical pump 63. The discharged liquid chemical is carried by the flow of water in the internal flow path R0 and is supplied to the flow path portion 61B through the internal flow path R0.

[0035] In this specification, when a tubular member is connected to another member, it means that the flow path inside the tubular member communicates with the inside of the other member.

[0036] As shown in FIG. 3, the flow path portion 61B of the case 61 forms a guide flow path 65 that guides the liquid agent and water flowing into the flow path portion 61B to the washing tub 4 and an opening 66. The inner bottom surface S0 of the flow path portion 61B in the guide flow path 65 is inclined downward toward the opening 66. The liquid agent and water flowing into the guide flow path 65 flow toward the opening 66 and are guided to the washing tub 4 through the opening 66.

[0037] The guide flow path 65 is defined by a plurality of wall portions 67 protruding upward from the inner bottom surface S0 of the flow path portion 61B. The opening 66 is located above the opening 41 of the washing tub 4.

[0038] The pipe portion 64 supplies the water and the liquid agent flowing through the internal flow path R0 to the guide flow path 65 of the flow path portion 61B. In other words, the internal flow path R0 of the pipe portion 64 communicates with the guide flow path 65. The water and the liquid agent supplied to the guide flow path 65 are supplied to the washing tub 4 through the opening 66.

[0039] Returning to FIG. 2B, the water supply device 9 is disposed on the back side (+Y side) of the case 61. The water supply device 9 is disposed at the +X side end of the pump through surface 61C of the case 61.

[0040] The water supply device 9 has a water supply valve 91.

[0041] The water supply valve 91 is a valve connected to a water supply. In the first embodiment, the water supply valve 91 is a member having a plurality of solenoid valves connected to a water supply. The opening and closing states of the respective solenoid valves can be switched via the control unit 12.

[0042] The water supply valve 91 is connected to a water supply pipe 92 formed in the tank accommodating portion 61A of the case 61. As shown in FIG. 3, the water supply pipe 92 is a tubular member having a plurality of flow paths for guiding water from the water supply valve 91. By switching the open / closed state of the solenoid valve of the water supply valve 91, the flow path in the water supply pipe 92 can be switched. The water supply pipe 92 has, inside thereof, a water supply flow path L0 for supplying water to the pipe portion 64. The water supply flow path L0 communicates with the internal flow path R0 of the pipe portion 64.

[0043] With reference to FIG. 4, the configurations of the liquid agent pump 63 and the pipe portion 64 will be described in more detail. FIG. 4 is a schematic plan view of the liquid agent supply unit 6 and the water supply device 9. In FIG. 4, a lid covering the upper portion of the tank accommodating portion 61A of the case 61 is omitted, and the members are schematically illustrated so that the connection relationship between the members can be understood.

[0044] As shown in FIG. 4, each of the liquid agent pumps 63 has a suction portion 71 and a discharge portion 72. The suction portion 71 is a tubular member that sucks the liquid agent from the liquid agent tank 62. The discharge portion 72 is a tubular member that discharges the liquid agent to the pipe portion 64. The discharge portion 72 forms a discharge port 72A at its tip.

[0045] Each suction portion 71 is connected to its respective liquid agent tank 62 in the Y direction through an opening 68 (see FIG. 3) formed in the pump through surface 61C of the case 61. Each discharge portion 72 is connected to the pipe portion 64 from above. The plurality of discharge portions 72 are connected to the pipe portion 64 with an interval in the X direction. The discharge port 72A communicates with the internal flow path R0 of the pipe portion 64.

[0046] The pipe portion 64 has an upstream pipe 87, a downstream pipe 88, and a bent portion 82.

[0047] The upstream pipe 87 is connected to the water supply pipe 92 of the tank accommodating portion 61A, and is a tubular member extending in a direction including an -X component from upstream to downstream. The upstream pipe 87 is connected to the water supply pipe 92 via an inflow pipe 87S. In Embodiment 1, the upstream pipe 87 extends in the -X direction along the pump through surface 61C of the case 61 in a plan view, downstream of the inflow pipe 87S.

[0048] The downstream pipe 88 is a tubular member connected to the case 61, specifically to the pump penetration surface 61C in the flow path portion 61B, and extending in a direction including the +X component. The downstream pipe 88 is connected to the pump penetration surface 61C in the flow path portion 61B via the outflow pipe 88S. In Embodiment 1, the downstream pipe 88 extends in the +X direction along the pump penetration surface 61C in plan view upstream of the outflow pipe 88S. That is, the upstream pipe 87 and the downstream pipe 88 extend parallel to each other and in opposite directions. On the other hand, the inflow pipe 87S and the outflow pipe 88S extend in a direction different from the X direction and extend in the Y direction toward the pump penetration surface 61C.

[0049] The bent portion 82 is a tubular member connecting the upstream pipe 87 and the downstream pipe 88, and bends between the upstream pipe 87 and the downstream pipe 88. Specifically, the bent portion 82 bends along the XY plane. Therefore, the pipe portion 64 has a shape folded back 180 degrees in plan view, and the upstream pipe 87 and the downstream pipe 88 extend side by side in the Y direction in plan view.

[0050] In plan view, the downstream pipe 88 is disposed closer to the pump penetration surface 61C of the case 61 than the upstream pipe 87. In other words, the upstream pipe 87 is farther from the pump penetration surface 61C than the downstream pipe 88. Since the water supply pipe 92 protrudes in the +Y direction from the -X side pump penetration surface 61C, even if the upstream pipe 87 connected to the water supply pipe 92 is separated from the pump penetration surface 61C, the connection of the pipe portion 64 is easy. A stable connection between the downstream pipe 88 and the case 61 can be ensured while ensuring a stable connection between the upstream pipe 87 and the water supply pipe 92.

[0051] The upstream pipe 87 has an internal flow path R1 through which liquid flows inside. The downstream pipe 88 has an internal flow path R2 through which liquid flows inside. The internal flow path R1 and the internal flow path R2 communicate with each other via the bent portion 82.

[0052] The discharge part 72 of the liquid agent pump 63 is connected to the downstream pipe 88 while being arranged so as to overlap both the upstream pipe 87 and the downstream pipe 88. Therefore, the discharge port 72A communicates with the internal flow path R2, and the liquid agent discharged from the discharge part 72 flows into the internal flow path R2. On the other hand, the discharge part 72 is blocked from the upstream pipe 87 (see the hatched part). Therefore, the liquid agent discharged from the discharge part 72 flows into the internal flow path R2 instead of the internal flow path R1.

[0053] As described above, the internal flow path R1 is a flow path for flowing water, and the internal flow path R2 is a flow path for flowing water and the liquid agent.

[0054] The inflow pipe 87S extending from the end of the upstream pipe 87 has a connection port 73 connected to the water supply pipe 92. The outflow pipe 88S extending from the end of the downstream pipe 88 has a connection port 74 connected to the pump penetration surface 61C of the flow path part 61B downstream of the discharge part 72. The connection port 73 communicates with the water supply flow path L0 of the water supply pipe 92, and the connection port 74 communicates with the guide flow path 65 of the flow path part 61B.

[0055] Since the pipe part 64 has a folded-back shape, it becomes easy to arrange the connection port 73 and the connection port 74 adjacent to each other. The connection port 74 is located closer to the connection port 73 than the bent part 82, that is, closer to the water supply pipe 92 than the bent part 82. Since the guide flow path 65 is located in the vicinity of the water supply pipe 92, it becomes easy to arrange the connection port 74 near the guide flow path 65.

[0056] Here, the flow of water and the liquid agent through the pipe part 64 will be described. Water flows from the water supply pipe 92 of the tank storage part 61A into the upstream pipe 87 of the pipe part 64 through the connection port 73. The water bends at the bent part 82 and then flows into the downstream pipe 88, and merges and mixes with the liquid agent discharged from the discharge part 72 in the downstream pipe 88 of the pipe part 64. The mixed liquid of water and the liquid agent (that is, the washing water) flows into the guide flow path 65 of the flow path part 61B through the connection port 74. The washing water flowing into the guide flow path 65 flows along the guide flow path 65 and is supplied to the washing tub 4 through the opening 66.

[0057] The pipe section 64 further has a connection port 75 that is connected to the flow path section 61B of the case 61, separate from the connection port 74. The connection port 75 is located downstream of the connection port 73 and upstream of the plurality of discharge sections 72, and is connected to the flow path section 61B at a position different from the connection port 74.

[0058] A part of the water flowing from the water supply pipe 92 into the pipe section 64 flows into the flow path section 61B through the connection port 75 before merging with the liquid agent. The water flowing into the flow path section 61B from the connection port 75 flows below the connection part with the liquid agent pump 63 in the liquid agent tank 62. The area below the connection part of the liquid agent tank 62 is likely to be soiled by the liquid agent dripping from the connection part when the liquid agent tank 62 is removed. The water flowing into the flow path section 61B from the connection port 75 can wash the easily soiled part.

[0059] Returning to FIG. 3, the water supply pipe 92 of the tank accommodation section 61A forms a connection port 93 to which the connection port 73 of the pipe section 64 is connected.

[0060] The flow path section 61B of the case 61 forms connection ports 76 and 77 to which the connection ports 74 and 75 of the pipe section 64 are respectively connected.

[0061] As shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, in the middle of the guide flow path 65 of the flow path section 61B, a collection of a plurality of protrusions 69 protruding upward from the inner bottom surface S0 of the flow path section 61B of the case 61 is provided. The washing water flowing through the guide flow path 65 collides with the plurality of protrusions 69. With such a configuration, the flow of the washing water can be decelerated.

[0062] As shown in FIG. 4, the connection port 74 is located in the vicinity of the upstream side of the plurality of protrusions 69. The connection port 74 is located on the +X side of the plurality of discharge sections 72 and at the +X side end of the downstream pipe 88. Therefore, the distance in the X direction between the connection port 74 and the plurality of protrusions 69 can be reduced, and the washing water supplied from the pipe section 64 to the flow path section 61B can be more reliably made to collide with the plurality of protrusions 69.

[0063] Next, the pipe section 64 will be described in more detail with reference to FIGS. 5A, 5B, and 6. FIG. 5A is a perspective view of the pipe section 64. FIG. 5B is an exploded view of the pipe section 64. FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of the pipe section 64 as viewed from the Y direction, showing the internal flow path R2 of the downstream pipe 88.

[0064] As shown in FIG. 5A, in the first embodiment, the upstream pipe 87, the downstream pipe 88, and the bent portion 82 are integrally formed. The upstream pipe 87, the downstream pipe 88, and the bent portion 82 are formed, for example, by a common resin-molded part.

[0065] At the upper part of the pipe section 64, a connection port 79 into which the discharge part 72 of the liquid agent pump 63 is inserted is formed. Corresponding to each liquid agent pump 63, three connection ports 79 are provided. The connection port 79 opens upward and receives the discharge part 72 extending in the Z direction. The connection port 79 may further be provided with a packing for sealing the discharge part 72.

[0066] Connection ports 73, 74, and 75 are formed in the front wall of the pipe section 64. The connection ports 73, 74, and 75 open in the Y direction that intersects the opening direction (Z direction) of the connection port 79.

[0067] As shown in FIG. 5B, the pipe section 64 has two members 64A and 64B divided in the Z direction. The members 64A and 64B are joined, for example, by vibration welding.

[0068] The pipe section 64 has a partition wall portion 83 that separates the upstream pipe 87 and the downstream pipe 88. The partition wall portion 83 projects upward from the inner bottom surface of the pipe section 64 and extends in the X direction. The partition wall portion 83 defines the upstream pipe 87 by the +Y side surface and defines the downstream pipe 88 by the -Y side surface. That is, the upstream pipe 87 and the downstream pipe 88 are adjacent to each other via the partition wall portion 83.

[0069] The end portion of the partition wall portion 83 on the -X direction side forms a gap G with the side wall of the pipe section 64. The pipe section 64 around the gap G forms the bent portion 82. Through the gap G, the internal flow path R1 of the upstream pipe 87 and the internal flow path R2 of the downstream pipe 88 communicate with each other.

[0070] As shown in FIG. 6, the partition wall portion 83 is formed by both of the members 64A and 64B. In other words, the partition wall portion 83 is divided in the Z direction.

[0071] When viewed from the Y direction, the upstream pipe 87 and the downstream pipe 88 at least partially overlap. As shown in FIG. 6, when viewed from the Y direction, the inner bottom surface S1 (see the dotted line) of the upstream pipe 87 is at least partially located between the inner bottom surface S2 of the downstream pipe 88 and the upper inner wall surface S3 facing the inner bottom surface S2 in the downstream pipe 88.

[0072] The inner bottom surface S1 of the upstream pipe 87 is inclined downward with respect to the horizontal in the -X direction. The inner bottom surface S2 of the downstream pipe 88 is inclined downward with respect to the horizontal in the +X direction. The inner bottom surface S1 of the upstream pipe 87 and the inner bottom surface S2 of the downstream pipe 88 have the same inclination angle with respect to the horizontal. The inclination angle of the inner bottom surfaces S1 and S2 is, for example, 1.5°.

[0073] FIG. 7A is a cross-sectional view of the pipe portion 64. FIG. 7B is a plan view of a part of the pipe portion 64.

[0074] As shown in FIG. 7A, when viewed from the X direction, the connection port 79 provided on the upper surface of the pipe portion 64 is located near the center of the pipe portion 64 in the Y direction and overlaps both the upstream pipe 87 and the downstream pipe 88. Therefore, the discharge portion 72 connected to the connection port 79 is arranged at a position that overlaps both the upstream pipe 87 and the downstream pipe 88 in a plan view.

[0075] With such a configuration, it becomes easier to shift the liquid agent pump 63 connected to the connection port 79 to the +Y side as compared with the case where the connection port 79 overlaps only the downstream pipe 88. Therefore, in accordance with the position of the liquid agent pump 63, the dimension of the liquid agent tank 62 in the Y direction can be increased, and the volume of the liquid agent tank 62 can be increased. Also, the pipe portion 64 can stably support the liquid agent pump 63 from below.

[0076] In Embodiment 1, the connection port 79 is located above the partition wall portion 83. In Embodiment 1, when viewed from the X direction, the center of the connection port 79 is located directly above the partition wall portion 83. On the other hand, when viewed from the X direction, the center of the connection port 79 may be shifted with respect to the partition wall portion 83 between the position where the -Y-direction wall portion of the connection port 79 overlaps with the front wall 64C and the position where the +Y-direction wall portion of the connection port 79 overlaps with the rear wall of the pipe portion 64.

[0077] The upstream pipe 87 has a guide portion 85 that guides the liquid agent discharged from the discharge portion 72 toward the internal flow path R2 of the downstream pipe 88 at a position overlapping the connection port 79 (i.e., the discharge portion 72). The guide portion 85 extends between the side wall 84 of the upstream pipe 87 and the partition wall portion 83 and is inclined downward (-Y side) toward the downstream pipe 88 with respect to the horizontal.

[0078] As shown in FIG. 7B, the guide portion 85 includes a wall portion having a shape corresponding to the region of the connection port 79 that overlaps the upstream pipe 87 in plan view. In Embodiment 1, the guide portion 85 includes a wall portion having a shape that coincides with the region of the connection port 79 that overlaps the upstream pipe 87 in plan view. Since the connection port 79 is circular, the guide portion 85 includes a wall portion having a bow-shaped shape in plan view.

[0079] Returning to FIG. 7A, the internal flow path R1 of the upstream pipe 87 is sealed with respect to the connection port 79 (i.e., the discharge portion 72) by the guide portion 85 and the partition wall portion 83. With such a configuration, even when the connection port 79 is located near the center of the pipe portion 64, the liquid agent discharged from the discharge portion 72 can be made to flow into the internal flow path R2 of the downstream pipe 88 instead of the internal flow path R1 of the upstream pipe 87.

[0080] On the other hand, the internal flow path R2 of the downstream pipe 88 communicates with the connection port 79 (i.e., the discharge portion 72). That is, the discharge portion 72 is connected to the downstream pipe 88, and the liquid agent is discharged into the internal flow path R2. With such a configuration, compared with the case where the liquid agent is discharged into the internal flow path R1 of the upstream pipe 87, the distance that the liquid agent flows in the pipe portion 64 can be reduced, and the possibility of the liquid agent remaining can be reduced.

[0081] Further, the discharge port 72A formed at the end of the discharge section 72 is disposed at a position lower than the connection port 79. For example, the Z-direction interval D1 between the end of the discharge section 72 and the connection port 79 is larger than the Z-direction interval D2 between the end of the discharge section 72 and the guide section 85. With such a configuration, the liquid agent pump 63 can be shifted downward. Therefore, according to the position of the liquid agent pump 63, it becomes possible to increase the Z-direction dimension of the liquid agent tank 62, and the volume of the liquid agent tank 62 can be increased.

[0082] The connection port 79 is separated from the front wall 64C of the pipe section 64 in the +Y direction. A step 86 is formed on the -Y side of the connection port 79. With such a configuration, interference with the components of the liquid agent pump 63 protruding downward can be avoided.

[0083] The width W2 of the internal flow path R2 in the Y direction is larger than the width W1 of the internal flow path R1 in the Y direction. When the width W2 of the internal flow path R2 in the Y direction is larger than the width W1 of the internal flow path R1 in the Y direction, in the internal flow path R2 through which the liquid agent flows in addition to water, the liquid flows more easily. On the other hand, the width W2 of the internal flow path R2 may be the same as the width W1 of the internal flow path R1, or may be smaller than the width W1 of the internal flow path R1.

[0084] Subsequently, the water supply pipe 92 of the tank housing portion 61A will be described in more detail with reference to FIG. 8. FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of the tank housing portion 61A of the case 61.

[0085] As shown in FIG. 8, the water supply pipe 92 has a wall portion 96 extending along the Z direction. The wall portion 96 defines a water supply flow path L0 on both sides (+Y side and -Y side). That is, the water supply flow path L0 defined by the wall portion 96 turns back in the Z direction.

[0086] The water from the water supply valve 91 flows into the flow path L1 on the +Y side of the wall portion 96 and accumulates in the flow path L1. When the water level in the flow path L1 exceeds the upper end of the wall portion 96, it overflows from the flow path L1 and flows into the flow path L2 on the -Y side of the wall portion 96 (see arrow A1). The water that has flowed into the flow path L2 flows into the pipe section 64 (not shown) through the connection port 93 (see arrow A2).

[0087] Downstream of the flow path L1, an opening 95 is provided in the wall of the water supply pipe 92 located near the upper end of the wall portion 96. The opening 95 is located above a plurality of protrusions 69 provided in the guide flow path 65.

[0088] A part of the water flowing into the flow path L2 passes through the opening 95 and falls onto a plurality of protrusions 69 in the guide flow path 65 (see arrow A3). When the washing water is flowing through the guide flow path 65, the water falling from the opening 95 is struck against the washing water decelerated by the plurality of protrusions 69, and the washing water can be foamed.

[0089] [Summary] Summarizing the above description, the features of the present disclosure will be described.

[0090] In the washing machine 1 according to the first embodiment, the pipe portion 64 that guides water and the liquid agent toward the flow path portion 61B of the case 61 has a shape bent by the bent portion 82. The liquid agent pump 63 is connected to the downstream pipe 88 downstream of the bent portion 82. When the liquid agent pump 63 is connected to the downstream pipe 88, the distance that the liquid agent discharged from the discharge portion 72 flows in the pipe portion 64 can be shortened compared to the case where it is connected to the upstream pipe 87. Therefore, the possibility of the liquid agent remaining in the pipe portion 64 can be reduced. The possibility of the pipe portion 64 being clogged can be suppressed.

[0091] The discharge portion 72 of the liquid agent pump 63 is connected to the downstream pipe 88 and is disposed at a position that overlaps both the upstream pipe 87 and the downstream pipe 88 in a plan view. Compared to the case where the discharge portion 72 is disposed at a position that overlaps only the downstream pipe 88, the liquid agent pump 63 can be shifted rearward (in the +Y direction) toward the back surface of the housing 2. According to the position of the liquid agent pump 63, it becomes possible to increase the dimension of the liquid agent tank 62 in the Y direction, and the volume of the liquid agent tank 62 can be increased. Therefore, the number of times of replenishing the liquid agent tank 62 is reduced, and the usability of the washing machine 1 is improved for the user.

[0092] While the discharge portion 72 overlaps both the upstream pipe 87 and the downstream pipe 88, a guide portion 85 is provided between the discharge portion 72 and the upstream pipe 87. Therefore, the liquid agent discharged from the portion of the discharge portion 72 that overlaps the upstream pipe 87 is guided along the guide portion 85 toward the internal flow path R2 of the downstream pipe 88. Even when the discharge portion 72 overlaps both the upstream pipe 87 and the downstream pipe 88, it is possible to suppress the inflow of the liquid agent into the upstream pipe 87.

[0093] [Effect] According to the washing machine 1 according to the first embodiment, the following effects can be achieved.

[0094] The washing machine 1 of the first embodiment includes a washing tub 4, a water supply device 9, a liquid agent tank 62, a guide flow path 65, a pipe portion 64, and a liquid agent supply device (liquid agent pump 63). The liquid agent tank 62 stores the liquid agent to be supplied to the washing tub 4. The guide flow path 65 guides the liquid agent and water to the washing tub 4. The pipe portion 64 is connected between the water supply device 9 and the guide flow path 65 and supplies the water supplied from the water supply device 9 to the guide flow path 65. The liquid agent pump 63 has a discharge portion 72 that discharges the liquid agent stored in the liquid agent tank 62 into the internal flow path R0 of the pipe portion 64. The pipe portion 64 has an upstream pipe 87 extending in a direction including a component in the first horizontal direction (-X direction), a downstream pipe 88 extending in a direction including a component in the second horizontal direction (+X direction) opposite to the -X direction, and a bent portion 82 that bends and connects between the upstream pipe 87 and the downstream pipe 88. The discharge portion 72 of the liquid agent pump 63 is connected to the downstream pipe 88.

[0095] With such a configuration, the distance that the liquid agent discharged from the discharge portion 72 flows in the pipe portion 64 can be shortened as compared with the case where the liquid agent pump 63 is connected to the upstream pipe 87. Therefore, the possibility of the liquid agent remaining in the pipe portion 64 can be reduced.

[0096] In the washing machine 1 of the first embodiment, the discharge portion 72 of the liquid agent pump 63 is connected to the downstream pipe 88 from above.

[0097] With such a configuration, while suppressing the residue of the liquid agent, the dimensional size in the Y direction of the liquid agent pump 63 and the pipe portion 64 can be made smaller compared to the case where they are connected to the downstream pipe 88 from the horizontal direction. Therefore, the space inside the housing 2 can be effectively utilized.

[0098] In the washing machine 1 of the first embodiment, the discharge portion 72 of the liquid agent pump 63 is disposed at a position overlapping both the upstream pipe 87 and the downstream pipe 88 in a plan view.

[0099] With such a configuration, the dimensional size in the Y direction of the liquid agent pump 63 and the pipe portion 64 can be further reduced.

[0100] In the washing machine 1 of the first embodiment, the pipe portion 64 has a guide portion 85 that guides the liquid agent from a position overlapping the discharge portion 72 toward the downstream pipe 88.

[0101] With such a configuration, even when the discharge portion 72 overlaps both the upstream pipe 87 and the downstream pipe 88, it is possible to suppress the inflow of the liquid agent into the upstream pipe 87.

[0102] In the washing machine 1 of the first embodiment, the guide portion 85 extends obliquely downward toward the downstream pipe 88 with respect to the horizontal at a position overlapping the discharge portion 72.

[0103] With such a configuration, the liquid agent discharged toward the guide portion 85 can be guided to the downstream pipe 88 by gravity, and the inflow of the liquid agent into the upstream pipe 87 can be further suppressed.

[0104] In the washing machine 1 of the first embodiment, the pipe portion 64 has a partition portion 83 that separates the upstream pipe 87 and the downstream pipe 88, and the upstream pipe 87 and the downstream pipe 88 are adjacent to each other via the partition portion 83.

[0105] With such a configuration, while simplifying the structure of the pipe portion 64, it is possible to suppress the inflow of the liquid agent into the upstream pipe 87.

[0106] In the washing machine 1 of the first embodiment, the downstream pipe 88 extends in the X direction along the first wall portion (pump penetration surface 61C) of the case 61 that houses the chemical liquid tank 62, and is connected to the pump penetration surface 61C.

[0107] With such a configuration, the downstream pipe 88 can be stably connected to the case 61.

[0108] In the washing machine 1 of the first embodiment, the upstream pipe 87 is located at a position farther from the pump penetration surface 61C than the downstream pipe 88 in a plan view.

[0109] With such a configuration, the downstream pipe 88 can be disposed close to the case 61, and the downstream pipe 88 can be stably connected to the case 61.

[0110] In the washing machine 1 of the first embodiment, the chemical liquid pump 63 is disposed directly above the pipe portion 64, penetrates the pump penetration surface 61C of the case 61, and is connected to the chemical liquid tank 62.

[0111] With such a configuration, the chemical liquid pump 63 can suck out the chemical liquid and discharge it downward to the pipe portion 64.

[0112] In the washing machine 1 of the first embodiment, a plurality of protrusions 69 protruding upward from the inner bottom surface (the inner bottom surface of the flow path portion 61B) are provided in the guide flow path 65. The water supply device 9 has a water supply valve 91 connected to a water source. The washing machine 1 further includes a water supply pipe 92 that connects the water supply valve 91 and the upstream pipe 87. The water supply pipe 92 communicates with the guide flow path 65 and has an opening 95 located above the plurality of protrusions 69.

[0113] With such a configuration, by hitting the water flowing out from the opening 95 against the washing water decelerated by the plurality of protrusions 69, the washing water can be foamed.

[0114] In the washing machine 1 of the first embodiment, the downstream pipe 88 is connected to the case 61 at a position closer to the plurality of protrusions 69 than the discharge portion 72 in a plan view.

[0115] With such a configuration, the connection port 74 can be arranged near the plurality of protrusions 69. Therefore, the washing water flowing out from the pipe portion 64 can be more reliably made to collide with the plurality of protrusions 69.

[0116] Note that the present disclosure is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and can be implemented in various other modes.

[0117] Note that an example in which the washing machine 1 has a plurality of chemical liquid tanks 62 and chemical liquid pumps 63 respectively has been described, but it is not limited to this. For example, the washing machine 1 may have one chemical liquid tank 62 or one chemical liquid pump 63. One chemical liquid pump 63 may have a plurality of discharge portions 72. Further, when the washing machine 1 has a plurality of chemical liquid pumps 63, it is sufficient that one or more chemical liquid pumps 63 are connected to the downstream pipe 88 of the pipe portion 64.

[0118] Note that although the chemical liquid pump 63 has been described as an example of the chemical liquid supply device, it is not limited to this. The chemical liquid supply device may be a simple charging device using an aspirator or a solenoid valve.

[0119] Note that an example in which the chemical liquid pump 63 is directly connected to the pipe portion 64 has been described, but it is not limited to this. For example, the chemical liquid pump 63 may be connected to the pipe portion 64 via another tubular member.

[0120] Note that an example in which the chemical liquid pump 63 is connected to the pipe portion 64 from above has been described, but it is not limited to this. For example, the chemical liquid pump 63 may be connected to the side wall or the bottom wall of the pipe portion 64.

[0121] Note that an example in which the water supply path to the washing tub 4 is constituted by the water supply device 9, the water supply pipe 92, the pipe portion 64, and the flow path portion 61B has been described, but it is not limited to this. For example, the pipe portion 64 may be directly connected to the washing tub 4, and the water supplied from the water supply device 9 may be supplied to the washing tub 4 without passing through the flow path portion 61B. In this case, a part of the pipe portion 64, for example, a part of the downstream pipe 88, may be used as the guide flow path 65. Further, as the guide flow path 65, another member may be connected to the end of the pipe portion 64.

[0122] Note that, although an example in which the upstream pipe 87, the downstream pipe 88, and the partition portion 83 extend in the X direction has been described, the present invention is not limited thereto. The upstream pipe 87, the downstream pipe 88, and the partition portion 83 may extend in a direction including a Y component or a Z component. Further, in order for the liquid to flow in the internal flow paths R1 and R2, the upstream pipe 87 and the downstream pipe 88 may be inclined with respect to the horizontal.

[0123] Note that, although an example in which the discharge portion 72 overlaps both the upstream pipe 87 and the downstream pipe 88 has been described, the present invention is not limited thereto. The discharge portion 72 may overlap only the downstream pipe 88 in a plan view.

[0124] Note that, although an example in which the downstream pipe 88 is located between the upstream pipe 87 and the case 61 has been described, the present invention is not limited thereto. The upstream pipe 87 may be located between the downstream pipe 88 and the case 61.

[0125] Note that, although an example in which the inner bottom surface S1 of the upstream pipe 87 and the inner bottom surface S2 of the downstream pipe 88 have the same inclination angle with respect to the horizontal has been described, the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, the inclination angle of the inner bottom surface S2 of the downstream pipe 88 may be made larger than the inner bottom surface S1 of the upstream pipe 87. With such a configuration, the remaining of the liquid agent can be further suppressed.

[0126] Note that, although an example in which the downstream pipe 88 is connected to the pump penetration surface 61C of the case 61 has been described, the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, the downstream pipe 88 may be connected to another side wall of the case 61.

[0127] Note that, although an example in which the guide portion 85 extends between the side wall 84 of the pipe portion 64 and the partition portion 83 has been described, the present invention is not limited thereto. The guide portion 85 and the partition portion 83 may have a space in the Z direction. Further, although an example in which the guide portion 85 includes a wall portion has been described, the present invention is not limited thereto. The guide portion 85 may have a structure of any shape that guides the discharged liquid agent toward the downstream pipe 88.

[0128] The washing machine in the first aspect includes a washing tub, a water supply device, a chemical tank for storing chemicals to be supplied to the washing tub, a guiding flow path for guiding the chemicals and water to the washing tub, a pipe section connected between the water supply device and the guiding flow path for supplying the water supplied from the water supply device to the guiding flow path, and a chemical supply device having a discharging section for discharging the chemicals stored in the chemical tank into the internal flow path of the pipe section. The pipe section has an upstream pipe extending in a direction including a first horizontal direction component, a downstream pipe extending in a direction including a second horizontal direction component opposite to the first horizontal direction, and a bent section that bends to connect between the upstream pipe and the downstream pipe. The discharging section of the chemical supply device is connected to the downstream pipe.

[0129] As the washing machine in the second aspect, in the washing machine in the first aspect, the discharging section of the chemical supply device is connected to the downstream pipe from above.

[0130] As the washing machine in the third aspect, in the washing machine in the second aspect, the discharging section of the chemical supply device is disposed at a position overlapping both the upstream pipe and the downstream pipe in a plan view.

[0131] As the washing machine in the fourth aspect, in the washing machine in the second or third aspect, the pipe section has a guiding portion for guiding the chemicals from a position overlapping the discharging section toward the downstream pipe.

[0132] As the washing machine in the fifth aspect, in the washing machine in the fourth aspect, the guiding portion extends horizontally and is inclined downward toward the downstream pipe at a position overlapping the discharging section.

[0133] As the washing machine in the sixth aspect, in the washing machine in any one of the first to fifth aspects, the pipe section has a partition wall portion separating the upstream pipe and the downstream pipe, and the upstream pipe and the downstream pipe are adjacent to each other via the partition wall portion.

[0134] As the washing machine in the seventh aspect, in the washing machine in any one of the first to fifth aspects, the downstream pipe extends in the second horizontal direction along the first wall portion of the case accommodating the chemical tank and is connected to the first wall portion.

[0135] As the washing machine in the eighth aspect, in the washing machine in the seventh aspect, the upstream pipe is located at a position farther from the first wall portion than the downstream pipe in a plan view.

[0136] As the washing machine in the ninth aspect, in the washing machine in any one of the seventh or eighth aspects, the liquid agent supply device is arranged directly above the pipe portion and is connected to the liquid agent tank through the first wall portion of the case.

[0137] As the washing machine in the tenth aspect, in the washing machine in any one of the seventh to ninth aspects, a plurality of protrusions protruding upward from the inner bottom surface are provided in the guide flow path, the water supply device has a water supply valve connected to a water source, and further includes a water supply pipe connecting the water supply valve and the upstream pipe. The water supply pipe communicates with the guide flow path and has an opening located above the plurality of protrusions.

[0138] As the washing machine in the eleventh aspect, in the washing machine in the tenth aspect, the downstream pipe is connected to the case at a position closer to the plurality of protrusions than the discharge portion in a plan view.

[0139] This disclosure is fully described in relation to the preferred embodiments with reference to the accompanying drawings, but various modifications and corrections are obvious to those skilled in this technology. Such modifications and corrections should be understood to be included therein as long as they do not deviate from the scope of the present invention according to the appended claims.

Industrial Applicability

[0140] When the washing machine of the present disclosure is equipped with an automatic liquid agent input function, it can increase the tank volume and suppress the residue of the liquid agent, so it is useful as a household washing machine, a commercial washing machine, or any type of washing and drying machine.

Explanation of Reference Numerals

[0141] 1 Washing machine 2 Housing 3 Outer tub 4 Washing tub 5 Driving unit 6 Liquid Supply Unit 9 Water Supply Device 11 Drain Valve 12 Control Unit 61 Case 61A Tank Accommodation Section 61B Flow Path Section 61C Pump Penetration Surface 62 Liquid Agent Tank 63 Liquid Agent Pump 64 Pipe Section 65 Guide Flow Path 66 Opening 69 Projection 72 Discharge Section 73 Connection Port 74 Connection Port 82 Bending Section 83 Partition Section 85 Guide Section 87 Upstream Pipe 88 Downstream Pipe

Claims

1. A washing tub, a water supply device, a chemical tank for storing chemicals to be supplied to the washing tub, a guiding flow path for guiding chemicals and water to the washing tub, a pipe section connected between the water supply device and the guiding flow path for supplying water supplied from the water supply device to the guiding flow path, a chemical supply device having a discharging section for discharging the chemicals stored in the chemical tank into an internal flow path of the pipe section, and the pipe section has an upstream pipe extending in a direction including a first horizontal direction component, a downstream pipe extending in a direction including a second horizontal direction component opposite to the first horizontal direction, and a bent section bent to connect between the upstream pipe and the downstream pipe, the discharging section of the chemical supply device is connected to the downstream pipe, a washing machine.

2. The discharging section of the chemical supply device is connected to the downstream pipe from above, the washing machine according to claim 1.

3. The discharging section of the chemical supply device is disposed at a position overlapping both the upstream pipe and the downstream pipe in a plan view, the washing machine according to claim 2.

4. The pipe section has a guiding section for guiding chemicals from a position overlapping the discharging section toward the downstream pipe, the washing machine according to claim 2.

5. The guiding section extends obliquely downward toward the downstream pipe with respect to the horizontal at a position overlapping the discharging section, the washing machine according to claim 4.

6. The pipe section has a partition section separating the upstream pipe and the downstream pipe, and the upstream pipe and the downstream pipe are adjacent to each other via the partition section, the washing machine according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

7. The downstream pipe extends in the second horizontal direction along a first wall section of a case housing the chemical tank and is connected to the first wall section, the washing machine according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

8. The upstream pipe is located at a position farther from the first wall section than the downstream pipe in a plan view, the washing machine according to claim 7.

9. The chemical supply device is disposed directly above the pipe section and is connected to the chemical tank through the first wall section of the case, the washing machine according to claim 7.

10. A plurality of protrusions protruding upward from an inner bottom surface are provided in the guiding flow path, the water supply device has a water supply valve connected to a water source, further includes a water supply pipe connecting the water supply valve and the upstream pipe, the water supply pipe communicates with the guiding flow path and has an opening located above the plurality of protrusions, the washing machine according to claim 7.

11. The washing machine according to claim 10, wherein the downstream pipe is connected to the case at a position closer to the plurality of protrusions than the discharge part in a plan view.

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