Washing machine

Abstract

To provide a washing machine which prevents a connector part from being splashed with water.SOLUTION: The washing machine of the present disclosure comprises: a washing tub for accommodating laundry; a pump that suck up water from outside and supply it to the washing tub; and a power supply substrate. The pump comprises: an impeller; a motor that drives the impeller; a case that accommodates the impeller and the motor; a terminal that is accommodated in a connector part provided on a side surface of the case and electrically connects the motor to the power supply substrate; and a first rib that protrudes outward from the side surface and extends in a width direction intersecting a height direction above the connector part, and the first rib includes a first portion that is inclined downward from above the connector part toward a portion of a side surface on one side of the connector part.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 9

Description

Technical Field

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

Background Art

[0002] For example, Patent Document 1 discloses an apparatus having a motor, a case that houses the motor, and a connector portion that connects the motor and an external power supply board.

[0003] The connector portion of the apparatus described in Patent Document 1 protrudes outward from the side surface of the case. The end portion of the protruding connector portion forms an opening, and a rib protruding upward is provided near the opening. The rib prevents water droplets that reach the connector portion from entering the connector portion through the opening.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] However, in the apparatus described in Patent Document 1, there is still room for improvement in terms of water getting on the connector portion.

[0006] Therefore, an object of the present disclosure is to solve the above problems and provide a washing machine that suppresses water from getting on the connector portion.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0007] A washing machine according to one aspect of the present disclosure includes a washing tub for accommodating laundry, a pump for sucking water from the outside and supplying it to the washing tub, and a power supply board. The pump includes an impeller, a motor for driving the impeller, a case for accommodating the impeller and the motor, a terminal accommodated in a connector portion provided on a side surface of the case for electrically connecting the motor to the power supply board, and a first rib provided above the connector portion and protruding outward from the side surface and extending in a width direction intersecting the height direction. The first rib has a first portion inclined downward from above the connector portion toward a portion of a side surface on one side of the connector portion.

[0008] A washing machine according to one aspect of the present disclosure includes a washing tub for accommodating laundry, a pump fixed to another structure for sucking water from the outside and supplying it to the washing tub, and a power supply board. The pump includes an impeller, a motor for driving the impeller, a case for accommodating the impeller and the motor, and a terminal accommodated in a connector portion provided on a side surface of the case for electrically connecting the motor to the power supply board. The other structure has a second rib protruding above the connector portion so as to overlap the connector portion when viewed in the height direction, and when viewed from a direction along the side surface of the case or a direction toward the side surface of the case, the second rib is inclined downward in a direction away from the connector portion.

Advantages of the Invention

[0009] According to the present disclosure, it is possible to provide a washing machine that suppresses water from splashing on the connector portion.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0010]

Figure 1

Figure 2

Figure 3A

Figure 3B

Figure 4

Figure 5

Figure 6

Figure 7

Figure 8

Figure 9

Figure 10

[0011] (Embodiment 1) The washing machine 1 according to Embodiment 1 of the present disclosure will be described. Hereinafter, two axes orthogonal to each other in the horizontal plane are defined as the X-axis and the Y-axis, and the axis in the height direction (vertical direction) orthogonal to the horizontal plane is defined as the Z-axis.

[0012] [Overall configuration] FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing the washing machine 1 according to Embodiment 1 of the present disclosure. FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of the washing machine 1.

[0013] As shown in FIG. 1, in Embodiment 1, the washing machine 1 is a vertical washing machine. Note that the washing machine 1 may be a drum-type washing machine or a washing and drying machine.

[0014] As shown in FIG. 2, the washing machine 1 includes a housing 2, an outer tub 3, a washing tub 4, a drive unit 5, a liquid agent supply unit 6, a water supply device 9, a pump 10, a drain valve 11, and a power supply board 12.

[0015] [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 and closable lid 21 covering the opening 20 are provided on the upper surface of the upper part 2A. The upper part 2A houses the liquid agent supply unit 6, the water supply device 9, and the pump 10. The lower part 2B houses the outer tub 3, the washing tub 4, the drive unit 5, the drain valve 11, and the power supply board 12.

[0016] [Outer tub] The outer tub 3 is a substantially cylindrical member provided inside the lower part 2B of the housing 2 and having a function of storing washing water. The outer tub 3 may be referred to as a water tub. 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.

[0017] <Washing tub> The washing tub 4 is a substantially cylindrical member rotatably provided around the central axis V0 inside the outer tub 3 and 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.

[0018] <Drive unit> The drive unit 5 is a member that rotationally drives the washing tub 4 around the central axis V0. The drive unit 5 has, for example, a motor that rotates the washing tub 4.

[0019] <Detergent supply unit> The detergent supply unit 6 is a device that automatically supplies a single portion of detergent from a tank storing multiple portions of detergent to the washing tub 4. The single portion of detergent is, for example, an appropriate amount and type of detergent determined by the controller of the power supply board 12 according to the content of the operation course and the amount of laundry.

[0020] <Water supply device> The water supply device 9 is a device connected to a water source such as a water supply and supplying 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] <Pump> The pump 10 is a pump that sucks up water from an external water source and supplies it to the washing tub 4. In Embodiment 1, the pump 10 sucks up the bath water stored in the bathtub and supplies it to the washing tub 4 as washing water. The pump 10 supplies water to the washing tub 4 via the chemical supply unit 6.

[0022] At the upper part of the pump 10, a suction port 81 is provided. A bath water hose (not shown) communicating with the bathtub is connected to the suction port 81. The pump 10 sucks the bath water into the interior through the bath water hose and the suction port 81. The suction port 81 is exposed from the housing 2 so that the user can easily connect the bath water hose.

[0023] The chemical supply unit 6, the water supply device 9, and the pump 10 are provided in the upper part 2A of the housing 2. Specifically, the chemical supply unit 6, the water supply device 9, and the pump 10 are arranged inside the upper part 2A, above the washing tub 4 and on the back side of the housing 2 with respect to the central axis V0. The chemical supply unit 6 is arranged so as to overlap a part of the opening 41 of the washing tub 4.

[0024] <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 lower part of the housing 2.

[0025] <Power supply board> The power supply board 12 is a board having a controller that controls each component of the washing machine 1. The controller of the power supply board 12 includes a general-purpose processor such as a CPU or MPU that realizes a predetermined function by executing a program.

[0026] In FIG. 2, for the sake of convenience, the power supply board 12 is shown outside the housing 2, but it is arranged inside the housing 2.

[0027] Subsequently, the structures of the chemical supply unit 6, the water supply device 9, and the pump 10 will be described in detail.

[0028] Figures 3A and 3B are perspective views of the liquid agent supply unit 6, the water supply device 9, and the pump 10 as seen from different angles. Figure 4 is a perspective view of the liquid agent supply unit 6, the water supply device 9, and the pump 10 with the lid 62B of the liquid agent supply unit 6 removed.

[0029] As shown in FIGS. 3A and 3B, the liquid agent supply unit 6 includes a plurality of tanks 61 (FIG. 3A) for storing a plurality of doses of liquid agent, a unit case 62 for housing the tanks 61, and liquid agent pumps 63 connected to the respective tanks 61. The liquid agent pump 63 sucks out the liquid agent from the connected tank 61 and discharges it toward a pipe portion 64 (FIG. 3B) connected to the unit case 62. The discharged liquid agent flows into the unit case 62 through the internal flow path of the pipe portion 64.

[0030] The upper part of the unit case 62 is open and covered with a lid 62B. The unit case 62 and the lid 62B are configured as separate members and joined to each other. In Embodiment 1, the lid 62B is welded to the unit case 62.

[0031] As shown in FIG. 3B, a water supply device 9 and a pump 10 are provided on the back surface 65 of the unit case 62. The water supply device 9 and the pump 10 are arranged side by side in the X direction. Note that the pump 10 is configured as a structure separate from the liquid agent supply unit 6.

[0032] The water supply device 9 has a plurality of water supply valves 91, 92, 93. Each of the water supply valves 91, 92, 93 is connected to the unit case 62.

[0033] Returning to FIG. 3A, the pump 10 has a discharge port 82 and a suction port 83. The discharge port 82 is an opening for discharging the water in the pump 10. The suction port 83 is an opening for allowing the suction water to flow into the pump 10. The discharge port 82 and the suction port 83 are connected to the lid 62B of the liquid agent supply unit 6.

[0034] In this specification, "connected" includes both the case of direct connection and the case of connection via other members or spaces.

[0035] As shown in FIG. 4, within the unit case 62 below the lid 62B, a flow path member 66 is disposed on the front side (-Y side) of the water supply device 9 and the pump 10. The flow path member 66 defines a plurality of flow paths R1, R2, and R3 for supplying water to the internal flow path of the unit case 62 located below the flow path member 66.

[0036] The flow path R1 connects the water supply valve 92 and the internal flow path of the unit case 62. When the water supply valve 92 is opened, water is supplied to the internal flow path of the unit case 62 through the flow path R1. The flow path R2 connects the discharge port 82 of the pump 10 and the internal flow path of the unit case 62. When the pump 10 is driven, water is supplied to the internal flow path of the unit case 62 through the flow path R2. The flow path R3 connects the water supply valve 93 and the internal flow path of the unit case 62. When the water supply valve 93 is opened, water is supplied to the internal flow path of the unit case 62 through the flow path R3. The water that has flowed into the internal flow path of the unit case 62 drops into the washing tub 4 (FIG. 2) through an opening (not shown) provided at the bottom of the unit case 62.

[0037] The flow path R3 further connects the water supply valve 93 and the suction port 83 of the pump 10. When the water supply valve 93 is opened, a part of the water that has flowed into the flow path R3 is supplied to the pump 10 as priming water. The supplied priming water is stored in the pump 10.

[0038] The supply of priming water is performed before the pump 10 sucks up the bath water. When driven in a state where a predetermined amount of priming water is stored, the pump 10 sucks out the air accumulated in the bath water hose connected to the suction port 81 from the bath water hose (self-priming process). When all the air in the bath water hose has been sucked out, the pump 10 sucks up the bath water through the bath water hose. The pump 10 discharges the sucked-up water from the discharge port 82 and supplies it to the washing tub 4 through the flow path R2 (water supply process).

[0039] FIG. 5 is an exploded view of the pump 10.

[0040] As shown in FIG. 5, the pump 10 has an impeller 72, a motor 73, and a flow path member 74 inside a case 71.

[0041] The impeller 72 is a rotating member driven by the motor 73. The impeller 72 is connected to a rotation shaft 73A of the motor 73 extending along the Y direction and rotates. The impeller 72 has a plurality of blades radially extending around the rotation shaft 73A. By the rotation of the blades, the fluid inside the pump 10 is caused to flow.

[0042] The motor 73 has a rotation shaft 73A and a rotor and a stator for rotating the rotation shaft 73A. The motor 73 has a terminal 73B (FIG. 7) electrically connected to the power supply board 12. The terminal 73B is housed in a connector portion 76 protruding outward from the case 71. With such a configuration, while protecting the terminal 73B, it can be easily connected to the power supply board 12 located outside the pump 10.

[0043] The flow path member 74 is a tubular member connected to the suction port 81. The flow path member 74 guides the fluid flowing into the pump 10 through the suction port 81 to the impeller 72.

[0044] The structure of the case 71 housing the impeller 72, the motor 73, and the flow path member 74 will be described in more detail with reference to FIGS. 6 and 7. FIG. 6 is a perspective view of the pump 10. FIG. 7 is a side view of the pump 10.

[0045] In the first embodiment, the case 71 is box-shaped. As shown in FIG. 6, the case 71 has an upper surface 71A, a front surface 71C and a rear surface 71D facing in the Y direction, and a side surface 71E extending between the front surface 71C and the rear surface 71D. The front surface 71C, the rear surface 71D, and the side surface 71E extend downward from the upper surface 71A.

[0046] The upper surface 71A of the case 71 has a suction port 81. The suction port 81 is provided at a position on the upper surface 71A away from the front surface 71C and the rear surface 71D. In the first embodiment, the suction port 81 may be provided near the center of the upper surface 71A.

[0047] The front surface 71C of the case 71 is a wall surface facing the unit case 62 of the liquid agent supply unit 6, and has a discharge port 82 and a suction port 83. The discharge port 82 and the suction port 83 are provided at the upper part of the front surface 71C with a space therebetween in the X direction.

[0048] The case 71 has tubular members extending outward from each of the suction port 81, the discharge port 82, and the suction port 83. In the following description, the suction port 81, the discharge port 82, and the suction port 83 include the spaces inside the tubular members extending outward from each of the suction port 81, the discharge port 82, and the suction port 83.

[0049] The back surface 71D of the case 71 is provided as a separate member from the upper surface 71A, the front surface 71C, and the side surface 71E. With such a configuration, the assembly of the pump 10 becomes easy.

[0050] A fixing portion 75, a connector portion 76, and a first rib 77 are provided on the side surface 71E of the case 71.

[0051] The fixing portion 75 is a member for fixing the pump 10 to the unit case 62 of the liquid agent supply unit 6. The fixing portion 75 protrudes in the +X direction from the side surface 71E and forms a recess. As shown in FIG. 3B, the recess of the fixing portion 75 engages with a part of the unit case 62 and is screwed.

[0052] The fixing portion 75 is also provided on the side surface of the case 71 facing the side surface 71E.

[0053] Returning to FIG. 6, a connector portion 76 is provided below the fixing portion 75. The connector portion 76 is a hollow member that protrudes outward from the side surface 71E and houses a terminal 73B (FIG. 7). The connector portion 76 is inclined downward in the direction away from the side surface 71E (the +X direction). The lower end 76A of the connector portion 76 is open.

[0054] A first rib 77 is provided between the fixing portion 75 and the connector portion 76. The first rib 77 is located directly above the connector portion 76 and protrudes outward (+X direction) from the side surface 71E. The first rib 77 guides water droplets flowing downward along the side surface 71E from the suction port 81 in a direction away from the connector portion 76, suppressing the water droplets from hitting the connector portion 76. By suppressing the water droplets from hitting the connector portion 76, it is possible to further suppress the water droplets from hitting the terminal 73B. That is, the first rib 77 has a function as a water removal rib.

[0055] As shown in FIG. 7, the first rib 77 extends in the Y direction. Here, the statement that a rib "extends in a predetermined direction" is not limited to extending parallel to the predetermined direction, but also includes extending in a direction including a predetermined direction component.

[0056] The first rib 77 has a -Y side end portion 77D and a +Y side end portion 77E. The end portion 77D is located at a portion of the side surface 71E on the -Y side of the connector portion 76, and the end portion 77E is located at a portion of the side surface 71E on the +Y side of the connector portion 76. In other words, the first rib 77 covers the connector portion 76 in the width direction (Y direction). Further in other words, the width direction dimension W1 of the first rib 77 defined by the interval between the end portions 77D and 77E is larger than the width direction dimension W2 of the connector portion 76.

[0057] In Embodiment 1, the first rib 77 has portions 77A and 77B that extend obliquely downward from the vertex 77C located above the connector portion 76 toward the respective end portions 77D and 77E. The first portion 77A extends obliquely downward with respect to the horizontal toward the -Y side up to the end portion 77D. The second portion 77B extends obliquely downward with respect to the horizontal toward the +Y side up to the end portion 77E. In Embodiment 1, the vertex 77C is located directly above the center of the connector portion 76 in the Y direction.

[0058] The height direction (Z direction) dimension D1 of the first rib 77 defined by the interval between the vertex 77C and the end portions 77D and 77E is smaller than the width direction dimension W1 of the first rib 77.

[0059] When a water droplet flowing downward along the side surface 71E reaches the first part 77A or the second part 77B, the water droplet flows along the inclination toward the ends 77D, 77E. When reaching the ends 77D, 77E, the water droplet drops downward at a position away from the connector part 76 in the Y direction.

[0060] Below the first part 77A and the second part 77B, a recess 78 recessed upward is formed. Therefore, the first rib 77 has an arrowhead shape.

[0061] Since it is provided on the side surface 71E, the first rib 77 is located below the suction port 81 provided on the upper surface 71A. The height difference H1 between the ends 77D, 77E of the first rib 77 and the connector part 76 is smaller than the height difference H2 between the ends 77D, 77E and the suction port 81. In other words, the ends 77D, 77E of the first rib 77 are located closer to the connector part 76 than the suction port 81. Further, the ends 77D, 77E of the first rib 77 are located closer to the connector part 76 than the fixing part 75.

[0062] In the first embodiment, the ends 77D, 77E are located above the connector part 76, but the ends 77D, 77E may be located below the upper end of the connector part 76. Also, the ends 77D, 77E may be located at different heights.

[0063] FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a part of the unit case 62.

[0064] As shown in FIG. 8, the back surface 65 of the unit case 62 has a portion 65A and a portion 65B that is located on the +X side (the direction approaching the water supply device 9) of the portion 65A and protrudes on the +Y side with respect to the portion 65A. The portion 65A and the portion 65B are connected by a portion 65C that extends in the Y direction. A flow path member 66 is disposed on the upper ends of the portions 65B and 65C and on the -Y side of a part of the upper end of the portion 65A. In order to seal the flow path member 66, a lid 62B (FIG. 3B) is placed and welded on the upper ends of the portions 65A, 65B, and 65C. When the welding between the upper ends of the portions 65A, 65B, and 65C and the lid 62B deteriorates, the water flowing through the flow path member 66 may cross the upper ends of the portions 65A, 65B, and 65C.

[0065] On the back surface 65, two convex portions 67 to which the fixing portion 75 of the pump 10 is fixed are provided. One convex portion 67 is disposed on the portion 65A, and the other convex portion 67 is disposed on the portion 65B. The two convex portions 67 have a spacing in the X direction, and the pump 10 is disposed within the spacing of the convex portions 67.

[0066] FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a part of the liquid agent supply unit 6, the water supply device 9, and the pump 10. FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of the second rib 68 and the pump 10.

[0067] As shown in FIG. 9, when the fixing portion 75 of the pump 10 is fixed to the convex portion 67 (FIG. 8), the front surface 71C (not shown) of the pump 10 faces the portion 65A, and a part of the side surface 71E faces the portion 65C. There is a gap between the pump 10 and the back surface 65.

[0068] On the side surface 71E, the connector portion 76 is located on the +Y side of the portion 65C and overlaps the portion 65B when viewed from the Y direction.

[0069] On the portion 65B of the back surface 65, a second rib 68 is provided below the fixing portion 75 and above the connector portion 76. The second rib 68 is located directly above the connector portion 76 and protrudes from the portion 65B toward the back surface side (+Y side). The second rib 68 receives the water that has overcome the upper end of the portion 65B and guides it in a direction away from the connector portion 76, suppressing the water from hitting the connector portion 76. That is, the second rib 68 functions as an awning for the connector portion 76.

[0070] The second rib 68 has an end portion 68C that protrudes toward the +Y side. The end portion 68C is located on the +Y side of the connector portion 76 (see FIG. 7). In other words, the second rib 68 covers the connector portion 76 in the width direction (Y direction). In Embodiment 1, the end portion 68C of the second rib 68 is located on the +Y side of the suction port 81.

[0071] As shown in FIG. 10, when viewed from the Y direction, the second rib 68 extends in the X direction. The second rib 68 has an end portion 68A on the -X side and an end portion 68B on the +X side. The end portion 68A is located directly above the connector portion 76, and the end portion 68B is located on the +X side of the open lower end 76A of the connector portion 76. In other words, the second rib 68 covers the portion of the connector portion 76 including the open lower end 76A in the protruding direction (X direction).

[0072] Since the end portion 68A is provided on a structure different from the side surface 71E, it is adjacent to the side surface 71E but has a gap G therebetween. The gap G is smaller than the protruding amount D2 from the side surface 71E of the connector portion 76.

[0073] Considering together with the positions of the end portions 68A, 68B, and 68C, the second rib 68 covers the portion of the connector portion 76 including the open lower end 76A in the X direction and the Y direction. In other words, when viewed from the Z direction, the second rib 68 overlaps with the portion of the connector portion 76 including the open lower end 76A. On the other hand, the second rib 68 may overlap with the portion of the connector portion 76 including a part of the open lower end 76A.

[0074] In Embodiment 1, the second rib 68 extends from the end 68A to the end 68B (+X direction), inclined downward with respect to the horizontal. That is, the second rib 68 is inclined downward in a direction away from the side surface 71E.

[0075] The water on the second rib 68 flows along the inclination from the end 68A to the end 68B. When it reaches the end 68B, the water drops downward at a position away from the connector portion 76 in the +X direction.

[0076] The inclination angle of the second rib 68 with respect to the X direction is smaller than the inclination angle of the connector portion 76 with respect to the X direction. By making the inclination angle smaller, the length of the second rib 68 can be reduced. Therefore, the second rib 68 is less likely to interfere with other members and is less likely to break.

[0077] The second rib 68 also has an upper surface inclined downward with respect to the horizontal even in the +Y direction away from the portion 65B of the back surface 65 (see FIG. 7). In Embodiment 1, the inclination angle with respect to the Y direction is smaller than the inclination angle with respect to the X direction, but the magnitude relationship may be reversed.

[0078] As shown in FIG. 10, the end 68A rises upward and extends in the +Z direction. The end 68B hangs downward and extends in the -Z direction. In other words, the ends 68A and 68B have a steeper inclination angle than the portion between the end 68A and the end 68B.

[0079] Even when water accumulates on the second rib 68, the end 68A can suppress the water from falling from the second rib 68 toward the connector portion 76 through the interval G. Also, the end 68B can more reliably guide the water flowing on the second rib 68 downward and suppress the water from flowing around to the lower surface of the second rib 68.

[0080] Here, the positional relationship between the two ribs 68 and 77 will be described. The first rib 77 is located below the second rib 68 and above the connector portion 76. When viewed from the Z direction, the first rib 77 is located within the interval G. That is, a part of the interval G is filled by the first rib 77. With such a configuration, water hitting the side surface 71E passing through the interval G is guided by the first rib 77 in a direction away from the connector portion 76. Therefore, it is possible to suppress water from hitting the connector portion 76.

[0081] [Summary] Summarizing the above description, the features of the present disclosure will be described.

[0082] The washing machine 1 according to Embodiment 1 has two ribs 77 and 68. By the first rib 77, it is possible to suppress water flowing along the side surface 71E from hitting the connector portion 76. By the second rib 68, it is possible to suppress water leaking from the gap between the back surface 65 of the liquid supply unit 6 and the lid 62B from hitting the connector portion 76. Specifically, due to the inclination of each of the ribs 68 and 77, water hitting the ribs 68 and 77 can be guided in a direction away from the connector portion 76. By suppressing water from hitting the connector portion 76, it is possible to more reliably suppress water from hitting the terminal 73B.

[0083] Separate from the first rib 77, by providing the second rib 68 on the liquid supply unit 6, compared with the case where one long rib is provided on the side surface 71E of the pump 10, the attachment of the pump 10 to the liquid supply unit 6 becomes easier. The risk of the rib breaking during the attachment of the pump 10 can be reduced. Further, even when a rib cannot be provided on the side surface 71E, by providing a rib on a structure separate from the pump 10, it is possible to suppress water from hitting the connector portion 76.

[0084] [Effect 1] According to the washing machine 1 according to Embodiment 1, the following effects can be achieved.

[0085] The washing machine 1 according to Embodiment 1 includes a washing tub 4 for accommodating laundry, a pump 10 for sucking water from the outside and supplying it to the washing tub 4, and a power supply board 12. The pump 10 has an impeller 72, a motor 73 for driving the impeller 72, and a case 71 for accommodating the impeller 72 and the motor 73. The pump 10 is housed in a connector portion 76 provided on a side surface 71E of the case 71, and has a terminal 73B for electrically connecting the motor 73 to the power supply board 12. The pump 10 has a first rib 77 that protrudes outward (+X direction) from the side surface 71E above the connector portion 76 and extends in the width direction (Y direction) intersecting the height direction (Z direction). The first rib 77 has a first portion 77A that slopes downward from above the connector portion 76 toward a portion of the side surface 71E on one side (-Y side) of the connector portion 76.

[0086] With such a configuration, along the inclination, water droplets flowing along the side surface 71E can be guided to the side surface 71E on the -Y side rather than the connector portion 76. Therefore, it is possible to suppress water from splashing on the connector portion 76, and further, it is possible to suppress water from splashing on the terminal 73B.

[0087] In the washing machine 1 according to Embodiment 1, the dimension W1 in the width direction of the first rib 77 is larger than the dimension W2 in the width direction of the connector portion 76.

[0088] With such a configuration, more water droplets flowing along the side surface 71E can be guided to the side surface 71E on the -Y side rather than the connector portion 76. Therefore, it is possible to further suppress water from splashing on the connector portion 76.

[0089] In the washing machine 1 according to Embodiment 1, the first rib 77 further has a second portion 77B that slopes downward from above the connector portion 76 toward a portion of the side surface 71E on the other side (+Y side) of the connector portion 76.

[0090] With such a configuration, the first rib 77 having an arrowhead shape can be provided. Compared with the case where a linear rib is provided, the distance that water droplets flow along the first rib 77 can be shortened. Therefore, a plurality of water droplets can gather on the first rib 77 to form large water droplets, and it is possible to suppress the water droplets from falling straight down from the first rib 77.

[0091] In the washing machine 1 of the first embodiment, the pump 10 has a suction port 81 for sucking water at the upper part. The first rib 77 is located below the suction port 81.

[0092] With such a configuration, water droplets that leak from the suction port 81 and flow along the side surface 71E can be guided to the side surface 71E on the -Y side of the connector portion 76.

[0093] In the washing machine 1 of the first embodiment, the height difference H1 between the first rib 77 and the connector portion 76 is smaller than the height difference H2 between the suction port 81 and the first rib 77.

[0094] With such a configuration, by arranging the first rib 77 near the connector portion 76, the risk that water droplets flow toward the connector portion 76 again below the first rib 77 can be reduced.

[0095] In the washing machine 1 of the first embodiment, the dimension W1 in the width direction of the first rib 77 is larger than the dimension D1 in the height direction of the first rib.

[0096] With such a configuration, a space above the first rib 77 can be secured on the side surface 71E, and other structures such as the fixing portion 75 can be provided.

[0097] The washing machine 1 according to the first embodiment further includes a chemical liquid supply unit 6 (supply unit) that supplies a chemical liquid to the washing tub 4. The pump 10 is fixed to the rear surface 65 of the chemical liquid supply unit 6 and supplies water to the washing tub 4 via the chemical liquid supply unit 6. The chemical liquid supply unit 6 has a second rib 68 that protrudes above the connector portion 76 so as to overlap the connector portion 76 when viewed from the height direction. When viewed from the direction along the side surface 71E of the case 71 (Y direction) or the direction toward the side surface 71E of the case 71 (X direction), the second rib 68 is inclined downward in a direction away from the connector portion 76.

[0098] With such a configuration, even when ribs cannot be provided on the side surface 71E, by providing the second rib 68 on a structure different from the pump 10, it is possible to suppress water from hitting the connector portion 76.

[0099] The second rib 68 is inclined downward in a direction away from the side surface 71E (+X direction) or in a direction away from the chemical liquid supply unit 6 (+Y direction).

[0100] With such a configuration, water can be easily guided away from the connector portion 76 with a simple structure. Compared with the case where the second rib 68 is inclined downward toward the chemical liquid supply unit 6, it is less likely for water to accumulate near the chemical liquid supply unit 6.

[0101] In the washing machine 1 according to the first embodiment, the second rib 68 protrudes rearward (+Y direction) from the rear surface 65.

[0102] With such a configuration, it becomes easier to cover the connector portion 76 with the second rib 68.

[0103] In the washing machine 1 according to the first embodiment, the second rib 68 protrudes rearward (+Y direction) from the suction port 81.

[0104] With such a configuration, by increasing the protruding amount, it is possible to increase the portion covered by the second rib 68 at the connector portion 76.

[0105] The washing machine 1 according to the first embodiment further includes a water supply device 9 that supplies water to a flow path member 66 (flow path) provided in the liquid agent supply unit 6. The liquid agent supply unit 6 has a lid 62B placed on the upper end of the rear surface 65 as a member separate from the rear surface 65. The flow path member 66 is located below the lid 62B.

[0106] With such a configuration, the second rib 68 can prevent water leaking from the gap between the rear surface 65 and the lid 62B from reaching the connector portion 76.

[0107] In the washing machine 1 according to the first embodiment, the second rib 68 is inclined downward in a direction away from the side surface 71E and in a direction away from the liquid agent supply unit 6.

[0108] With such a configuration, water can be more reliably guided in a direction away from the connector portion 76.

[0109] In the washing machine 1 according to the first embodiment, the second rib 68 is inclined downward in a direction away from the side surface 71E. The second rib 68 is adjacent to the side surface 71E and has an end portion 68A (first end portion) that rises upward and an end portion 68B (second end portion) that hangs downward and is farther from the side surface 71E than the end portion 68A.

[0110] With such a configuration, the end portion 68A can prevent water from falling from the second rib 68 toward the connector portion 76. The end portion 68B can more reliably guide the water flowing through the second rib 68 downward and prevent the water from flowing around to the lower surface of the second rib 68.

[0111] In the washing machine 1 according to the first embodiment, the second rib 68 has a gap G with the side surface 71E. A first rib 77 that protrudes outward from the side surface 71E and extends in the width direction intersecting the height direction is further provided below the second rib 68 and above the connector portion 76.

[0112] With such a configuration, a part of the gap G can be filled by the first rib 77, further suppressing water from hitting the connector part 76.

[0113] Note that the present disclosure is not limited to the above-described embodiments and can be implemented in various other modes.

[0114] Although an example in which the power supply board 12 controls each component of the washing machine 1 has been described, it is not limited thereto. The power supply board 12 only needs to have a controller that controls at least the pump 10.

[0115] Although an example in which the washing machine 1 has both the first rib 77 and the second rib 68 has been described, it is not limited thereto. The washing machine 1 only needs to have at least one of the first rib 77 and the second rib 68.

[0116] Although an example in which the first rib 77 has two parts 77A and 77B and has an arrowhead shape has been described, it is not limited thereto. The first rib 77 only needs to have at least one of the parts 77A and 77B. For example, the first rib 77 may have a straight or polygonal line shape, or may have a semi-circular shape.

[0117] When the first rib 77 has two parts 77A and 77B, the parts 77A and 77B may each have a different inclination angle, may be curved, or may be connected by another part therebetween.

[0118] Although an example in which the first rib 77 covers the entire width of the connector part 76 has been described, it is not limited thereto. It is sufficient that at least one of the end portions 77D and 77E of the first rib 77 extends in the Y direction beyond the width of the connector part 76. With such a configuration as well, water droplets can be induced in a direction away from the connector part 76, suppressing water from hitting the connector part 76.

[0119] Although an example in which the second rib 68 is provided in the liquid agent supply unit 6 has been described, the present invention is not limited thereto. The second rib 68 may be provided in another structure disposed around the pump 10. For example, the second rib 68 may be provided in the water supply device 9 or the housing 2.

[0120] Although an example in which the pump 10 is disposed facing the back surface 65 of the unit case 62 has been described, the present invention is not limited thereto. The pump 10 may be fixed to another unit side surface of the unit case 62. In that case, the second rib 68 is provided on the unit side surface to which the pump 10 is fixed or an adjacent unit side surface.

[0121] Although an example in which the second rib 68 is inclined in both the X direction and the Y direction has been described, the present invention is not limited thereto. The second rib 68 may be inclined in only one of the X direction or the Y direction. Further, although an example in which the second rib 68 is inclined downward in the +Y direction has been described, the second rib 68 may be inclined downward in the -Y direction. When viewed from the direction along the side surface 71E or the direction toward the side surface 71E, the second rib 68 may be inclined downward in a direction away from the connector portion 76.

[0122] The washing machine according to the first aspect includes a washing tub that houses laundry, a pump that sucks water from the outside and supplies it to the washing tub, and a power supply board. The pump includes an impeller, a motor that drives the impeller, a case that houses the impeller and the motor, a terminal that is housed in a connector portion provided on a side surface of the case and electrically connects the motor to the power supply board, and a first rib that protrudes outward from the side surface above the connector portion and extends in a width direction that intersects the height direction. The first rib has a first portion that is inclined downward from above the connector portion toward a portion of a side surface on one side of the connector portion.

[0123] As the washing machine according to the second aspect, in the washing machine according to the first aspect, the dimension of the first rib in the width direction is larger than the dimension of the connector portion in the width direction.

[0124] As the washing machine in the third aspect, in the washing machine in the first or second aspect, the first rib further has a second portion that inclines downward from above the connector portion toward a portion of the side surface on the other side of the connector portion.

[0125] As the washing machine in the fourth aspect, in the washing machine in any one of the first to third aspects, the pump has a suction port for sucking water at the upper part, and the first rib is located below the suction port.

[0126] As the washing machine in the fifth aspect, in the washing machine in the fourth aspect, the height difference between the first rib and the connector portion is smaller than the height difference between the suction port and the first rib.

[0127] As the washing machine in the sixth aspect, in the washing machine in any one of the first to fifth aspects, the dimension in the width direction of the first rib is larger than the dimension in the height direction of the first rib.

[0128] The washing machine in the seventh aspect includes a washing tub that houses laundry, a pump that is fixed to another structure and sucks water from the outside and supplies it to the washing tub, and a power supply board. The pump has an impeller, a motor that drives the impeller, a case that houses the impeller and the motor, and a terminal that is housed in a connector portion provided on the side surface of the case and electrically connects the motor to the power supply board. The other structure has a second rib that protrudes above the connector portion so as to overlap the connector portion when viewed from the height direction. When viewed from the direction along the side surface of the case or the direction toward the side surface of the case, the second rib inclines downward in the direction away from the connector portion.

[0129] As the washing machine in the eighth aspect, in the washing machine in the seventh aspect, the second rib inclines downward in the direction away from the side surface or the direction away from another structure.

[0130] As the washing machine in the ninth aspect, in the washing machine in the seventh or eighth aspect, another structure is a supply unit that supplies a liquid agent to the washing tub. The pump is fixed to the unit side surface of the supply unit, supplies water to the washing tub through the supply unit, and the second rib protrudes from the unit side surface.

[0131] As the washing machine in the tenth aspect, in the washing machine in the ninth aspect, the unit side surface is the back surface of the supply unit, and the second rib protrudes rearward from the back surface.

[0132] As the washing machine in the eleventh aspect, in the washing machine in the tenth aspect, the pump has a suction port for sucking water at the upper part, and the second rib protrudes rearward of the suction port.

[0133] As the washing machine in the twelfth aspect, in the washing machine in any one of the ninth to eleventh aspects, it further includes a water supply device that supplies water to a flow path provided in the supply unit. The supply unit has a lid placed on the upper end of the unit side surface as a member different from the unit side surface, and the flow path is located below the lid.

[0134] As the washing machine in the thirteenth aspect, in the washing machine in any one of the seventh to twelfth aspects, the second rib is inclined downward in a direction away from the side surface of the case and in a direction away from another structure.

[0135] As the washing machine in the fourteenth aspect, in the washing machine in any one of the seventh to thirteenth aspects, the second rib is inclined downward in a direction away from the side surface of the case, adjacent to the side surface, has a first end portion that rises upward, and a second end portion that hangs downward away from the side surface more than the first end portion.

[0136] As the washing machine in the 15th aspect, in the washing machine in any one of the 7th to 14th aspects, the second rib has a space from the side surface of the case, and a first rib that protrudes outward from the side surface and extends in the width direction intersecting the height direction is further provided below the second rib and above the connector portion.

[0137] Although the present disclosure is fully described in relation to preferred embodiments with reference to the accompanying drawings, various modifications and corrections will be apparent to those skilled in this technology. Such modifications and corrections should be understood to be included therein as long as they do not depart from the scope of the present invention according to the appended claims.

Industrial Applicability

[0138] The washing machine of the present disclosure is useful as a washing machine having a pump for sucking up bath water.

Explanation of Signs

[0139] 1 Washing machine 2 Housing 3 Outer tub 4 Washing tub 6 Agent supply unit 9 Water supply device 10 Pump 65 Rear surface 66 Flow path member 68 Second rib 71 Case 72 Impeller 73 Motor 75 Fixed part 76 Connector part 77 First rib 78 Recess 81 Suction port

Claims

1. A washing tub for accommodating laundry, a pump for sucking up water from the outside and supplying it to the washing tub, and a power supply board, and the pump includes an impeller, a motor for driving the impeller, a case for accommodating the impeller and the motor, a terminal accommodated in a connector portion provided on a side surface of the case for electrically connecting the motor to the power supply board, and a first rib protruding outward from the side surface above the connector portion and extending in a width direction intersecting the height direction, wherein the first rib has a first portion inclined downward from above the connector portion toward a portion of the side surface on one side of the connector portion, a washing machine.

2. The washing machine according to claim 1, wherein a dimension of the first rib in the width direction is larger than a dimension of the connector portion in the width direction.

3. The washing machine according to claim 1, wherein the first rib further has a second portion inclined downward from above the connector portion toward a portion of the side surface on the other side of the connector portion.

4. The pump has a suction port for sucking water at an upper portion, and the first rib is located below the suction port, the washing machine according to claim 1.

5. The washing machine according to claim 4, wherein a height difference between the first rib and the connector portion is smaller than a height difference between the suction port and the first rib.

6. The washing machine according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein a dimension of the first rib in the width direction is larger than a dimension of the first rib in the height direction.

7. A washing tub for accommodating laundry, a pump fixed to another structure for sucking up water from the outside and supplying it to the washing tub, and a power supply board, and the pump includes an impeller, a motor for driving the impeller, a case for accommodating the impeller and the motor, and a terminal accommodated in a connector portion provided on a side surface of the case for electrically connecting the motor to the power supply board, wherein the other structure has a second rib protruding above the connector portion so as to overlap the connector portion when viewed in the height direction, and when viewed from a direction along the side surface of the case or a direction toward the side surface of the case, the second rib is inclined downward in a direction away from the connector portion, a washing machine.

8. The washing machine according to claim 7, wherein the second rib is inclined downward in a direction away from the side surface of the case or in a direction away from the other structure.

9. The other structure is a supply unit that supplies a liquid agent to the washing tub, The pump is fixed to a unit side surface of the supply unit and supplies water to the washing tub through the supply unit, The washing machine according to claim 7, wherein the second rib protrudes from the unit side surface.

10. The unit side surface is a rear surface of the supply unit, The washing machine according to claim 9, wherein the second rib protrudes rearward from the rear surface.

11. The pump has a suction port for sucking water at an upper portion, The washing machine according to claim 10, wherein the second rib protrudes rearward of the suction port.

12. The washing machine further includes a water supply device that supplies water to a flow path provided in the supply unit, The supply unit has a lid placed on an upper end of the unit side surface as a member different from the unit side surface, The washing machine according to claim 9, wherein the flow path is located below the lid.

13. The washing machine according to any one of claims 7 to 12, wherein the second rib is inclined downward in a direction away from the side surface of the case and in a direction away from the other structure.

14. The second rib is inclined downward in a direction away from the side surface of the case, and has a first end portion adjacent to the side surface and rising upward, and a second end portion hanging downward and farther from the side surface than the first end portion. The washing machine according to any one of claims 7 to 12.

15. The second rib has a space from the side surface of the case, The washing machine according to any one of claims 7 to 12, further provided with a first rib protruding outward from the side surface and extending in a width direction intersecting the height direction above the second rib and below the connector portion.

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