Washing machine

Abstract

To provide a washing machine in which usability of a user has been improved regarding an automatic input function of a liquid agent.SOLUTION: A washing machine includes: a washing tub provided in a rotatable manner; a liquid agent tank for storing a liquid agent; a case for storing the liquid agent; and a liquid agent supply device for sucking the liquid agent stored in the liquid agent tank and for supplying it to the washing tub. The liquid agent supply device includes a first suction part and a second suction part at least one of which can be connected to the liquid agent tank. As the liquid agent tank, a first liquid agent tank is arranged which faces the first suction part and the second suction part when stored in the case and which is communicated with the first suction part and is non-communicated with the second suction part.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 11

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to washing machines. [Background technology]

[0002] For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a washing machine having a washing tub and a liquid agent supplying device that supplies a liquid agent to the washing tub. The liquid agent supplying device has a liquid agent tank that stores the liquid agent and a case that houses the liquid agent tank.

[0003] The case described in Patent Document 1 accommodates a first liquid tank and a second liquid tank at the same time. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2019-42183 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] However, the washing machine described in Patent Document 1 still has room for improvement in terms of user friendliness regarding the automatic liquid agent dispensing function.

[0006] Therefore, an object of the present disclosure is to solve the above-mentioned problems and improve the user's usability regarding the automatic liquid drug dispensing function. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] A washing machine according to one embodiment of the present disclosure includes a rotatable washing tub, a liquid agent tank for storing a liquid agent, a case for housing the liquid agent tank, and a liquid agent supply device for sucking out the liquid agent stored in the liquid agent tank and supplying it to the washing tub. The liquid agent supply device has a first suction section and a second suction section, at least one of which is connectable to the liquid agent tank. The liquid agent tank is a first liquid agent tank that is connected to the first suction section but not connected to the second suction section when housed in the case, facing the first suction section and the second suction section. [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] According to the present disclosure, a washing machine with improved user convenience regarding the automatic liquid agent dispensing function can be provided. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0009] [Figure 1A] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a washing machine according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure; [Figure 1B] Schematic diagram of a washing machine according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 2A] Perspective view of a fluid supply unit housing two fluid reservoirs [Figure 2B] Perspective view of a fluid supply unit housing two fluid reservoirs [Figure 2C] Exploded view of a fluid supply unit housing two fluid reservoirs [Figure 3A] A perspective view of a fluid supply unit containing a single fluid reservoir. [Figure 3B] A perspective view of a fluid supply unit containing a single fluid reservoir. [Figure 3C] Exploded view of a fluid supply unit containing a single fluid reservoir [Figure 4] Perspective view of the case [Figure 5A] Cross-section of a fluid supply unit housing two fluid reservoirs [Figure 5B] Cross-section of a fluid supply unit containing a single fluid reservoir [Figure 6] Perspective view showing the bottom of the two reservoirs [Figure 7]Schematic bottom view of two fluid reservoirs [Figure 8] Perspective view of the bottom of a single fluid reservoir [Figure 9] Perspective view of the fluid tank [Figure 10] Perspective view of the fluid tank [Figure 11] Cross-sectional view of the liquid supply unit [Figure 12] Schematic bottom view of a single reservoir [Figure 13] Schematic top view of the enclosure housing two fluid reservoirs [Figure 14] Schematic top view of enclosure housing a single fluid reservoir [Figure 15] Cross-sectional view of a liquid supply unit according to a first modified example [Figure 16] Cross-sectional view of the liquid supply unit DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0010] (Embodiment 1) A washing machine according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure will be described.

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

[0012] In the following drawings, the mutually orthogonal horizontal directions are referred to as the X direction and the Y direction, and the vertical direction orthogonal to both the X direction and the Y direction is referred to as the Z direction. The horizontal direction and the vertical direction are the horizontal direction and the vertical direction, respectively, when the washing machine 1 is used in a freestanding state. The X direction may also be referred to as the front-rear direction, and the Y direction may also be referred to as the width direction.

[0013] As shown in Figures 1A and 1B, the washing machine 1 includes a housing 2, an outer tub 3 (Figure 1B), a washing tub 4 (Figure 1B), a drive unit 5 (Figure 1B), a liquid agent supply unit 6, a connection flow path 8 (Figure 1B), a water supply device 10 (Figure 1B), a drain valve 11 (Figure 1B), and a control unit 12 (Figure 1B).

[0014] <Case> 1B, the housing 2 is a member that forms the exterior of the washing machine 1. An opening 20 and a lid 21 that covers the opening 20 and can be opened and closed freely are provided on the front surface of the housing 2.

[0015] <Outer tank> The outer tub 3 is a roughly cylindrical member provided inside the housing 2 and functions to store wash water. The outer tub 3 may also be referred to as a water tub. The central axis V0 of the outer tub 3 passes through the center of the bottom of the outer tub 3 and is inclined relative to the horizontal (X direction). The outer tub 3 has an opening 31 at a position facing the opening 20 of the housing 2. The edge of the opening 31 is connected to the opening 20 of the housing 2 in a sealed manner by a bellows 32.

[0016] <Washing tub> The washing tub 4 is a generally cylindrical member rotatably disposed around a central axis V0 inside the outer tub 3 and used to store laundry such as clothes. The washing tub 4 may also be referred to as an inner tub, a storage tub, or a drum. The washing tub 4 has a large number of through-holes 40 formed therein. The through-holes 40 connect the washing tub 4 and the outer tub 3, allowing the movement of wash 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 in the housing 2 and the opening 31 in the outer tub 3. A user of the washing machine 1 can open the lid 21 and place laundry into the washing tub 4 through the openings 20, 31, and 41.

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

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

[0019] The liquid agent supply unit 6 is disposed above the outer tank 3 within the housing 2. In the first embodiment, the bottom of the liquid agent supply unit 6 has a shape that follows the outer peripheral surface of the outer tank 3.

[0020] <Connection flow path> The connection flow path 8 is a flow path for connecting the liquid drug supply unit 6 and the outer tank 3. The connection flow path 8 extends downward from the liquid drug supply unit 6 to an opening 33 provided in the upper part of the outer tank 3.

[0021] <Water supply device> The water supply device 10 is connected to a water source such as a tap, and supplies water to the outer tank 3 via the liquid agent supply unit 6 and the connecting flow path 8. The water supply device 10 has, for example, a water supply valve connected to the tap.

[0022] <Drain valve> The drain valve 11 is a valve that can be opened and closed, and when closed, it stores water in the outer tub 3, and when open, it drains the water stored in the outer tub 3. The drain valve 11 is disposed at the bottom of the housing 2, and is connected to an opening 35 provided at the bottom of the outer tub 3.

[0023] <Control unit> Control unit 12 is a controller that controls washing machine 1. Control unit 12 includes a general-purpose processor such as a CPU or MPU that executes programs to achieve predetermined functions. Control unit 12 calls and executes programs stored in memory (not shown) to achieve various controls in washing machine 1. Control unit 12 is not limited to a controller that achieves predetermined functions through the cooperation of hardware and software, and may be a hardware circuit designed specifically to achieve predetermined functions.

[0024] Specifically, the control unit 12 controls the drive unit 5, the liquid agent supply unit 6, the water supply device 10, and the drain valve 11.

[0025] Next, the structure of the liquid agent supply unit 6 will be described in more detail.

[0026] 2A and 2B are perspective views of the liquid supply unit 6 accommodating the liquid tanks 61A and 61B. Fig. 2C is an exploded view of the liquid supply unit 6 accommodating the liquid tanks 61A and 61B.

[0027] As shown in FIGS. 2A and 2B, the liquid supply unit 6 includes a liquid tank 61, a case 62, a liquid supply device 63, and a liquid discharge flow path 64 (FIG. 2B).

[0028] The liquid agent tank 61 is a container for storing a liquid agent, and includes liquid agent tanks 61A and 61B. In the first embodiment, the liquid agent tank 61A stores a detergent, and the liquid agent tank 61B stores a fabric softener. Note that the liquid agent tanks 61A and 61B may store other types of liquid agents.

[0029] The case 62 is a case that houses the liquid tanks 61 A and 61 B. The liquid tanks 61 A and 61 B are housed in the case 62 at the same time, lined up in the Y direction.

[0030] The liquid agent tank 61A is deeper than the liquid agent tank 61B. When housed in the case 62, the upper surfaces of the liquid agent tanks 61A and 61B are at the same height, and the bottom of the liquid agent tank 61A is at a height lower than the bottom of the liquid agent tank 61B.

[0031] 2B, the liquid agent tanks 61A and 61B are connected to a liquid agent supply device 63. The liquid agent supply device 63 is a device that sucks out and supplies the liquid agent in the liquid agent tank 61, and includes liquid agent pumps 63A and 63B. The liquid agent pumps 63A and 63B are aligned in the Y direction, and are connected to the liquid agent tanks 61A and 61B from the X direction, respectively.

[0032] The liquid pumps 63A and 63B are connected to the liquid discharge flow path 64 from above. The liquid pump 63A is a device that sucks a predetermined amount of liquid from the liquid tank 61A and discharges it into the liquid discharge flow path 64. The liquid pump 63B is a device that sucks a predetermined amount of liquid from the liquid tank 61B and discharges it into the liquid discharge flow path 64. The liquid discharge flow path 64 is a member that forms a flow path that allows the liquid discharged from the liquid pumps 63A and 63B to flow into the case 62.

[0033] The liquid pumps 63A and 63B are disposed at heights corresponding to the bottoms of the liquid tanks 61A and 61B, respectively, and the liquid pump 63A is disposed at a height lower than that of the liquid pump 63B. In the first embodiment, the liquid pumps 63A and 63B have a common structure.

[0034] Liquid agent discharge flow path 64 extends at an angle with respect to the Y direction so as to connect to both liquid agent pumps 63A, 63B arranged at different heights. Liquid agent discharge flow path 64 is connected to back surface 66, which is the +X side wall surface of case 62, upstream and downstream of liquid agent pumps 63A, 63B. A portion of the water supplied from water supply device 10 (FIG. 1) to case 62 flows from case 62 into liquid agent discharge flow path 64, passes through liquid agent discharge flow path 64, and flows into case 62 again.

[0035] 2C , the liquid pump 63A has a suction portion 71A connectable to the liquid tank 61A and a discharge portion 72A connected to the liquid discharge flow path 64. The liquid pump 63B has a suction portion 71B connectable to the liquid tank 61B and a discharge portion 72B connected to the liquid discharge flow path 64. The suction portions 71A and 71B are members for sucking the liquid from the liquid tanks 61A and 61B, and the discharge portions 72A and 72B are members for discharging the liquid toward the liquid discharge flow path 64.

[0036] Similar to the arrangement of the liquid pumps 63A and 63B, the suction portions 71A and 71B are aligned in the Y direction, with the suction portion 71A being positioned lower than the suction portion 71B.

[0037] A connecting portion 69A into which the suction portion 71A of the liquid pump 63A is inserted is provided on a back surface 74A of the liquid tank 61A. A connecting portion 69B into which the suction portion 71B of the liquid pump 63B is inserted is provided on a back surface 74B of the liquid tank 61B. The connecting portions 69A and 69B have a cylindrical structure extending into the interior of the liquid tanks 61A and 61B.

[0038] The connection parts 69A and 69B are provided at the bottom of the respective liquid tanks 61A and 61B. In the first embodiment, the connection parts 69A and 69B are provided at the deepest parts of the respective liquid tanks 61A and 61B. The connection part 69A is disposed at a lower position than the connection part 69B.

[0039] The rear surface 66 of the case 62 is provided with an opening 68A facing the suction portion 71A and an opening 68B facing the suction portion 71B.

[0040] With this structure, the suction portions 71A and 71B of the liquid pumps 63A and 63B pass through the openings 68A and 68B, are connected to the connection portions 69A and 69B, and communicate with the liquid tanks 61A and 61B.

[0041] When the liquid pumps 63A, 63B are driven, the liquid stored in the liquid tanks 61A, 61B is sucked out through the suction portions 71A, 71B and discharged into the liquid discharge flow path 64 through the discharge portions 72A, 72B. The liquid discharged into the liquid discharge flow path 64 merges with the water flowing through the liquid discharge flow path 64. The water and liquid in the liquid discharge flow path 64 flow from the liquid discharge flow path 64 into the case 62 and are supplied to the outer tank 3 through a connecting flow path 8 (FIG. 1) connected to an opening 67 provided at the bottom of the case 62.

[0042] The liquid agent tanks 61A and 61B are removable from the case 62. A user of the washing machine 1 can pull the liquid agent tanks 61A and 61B toward the -X side to remove them from the liquid agent pumps 63A and 63B, and then remove the detached liquid agent tanks 61A and 61B from the case 62. This structure makes it easy to maintain, clean, and refill the liquid agent tanks 61A and 61B.

[0043] Note that the connection parts 69A and 69B are provided with valves, so that even when the liquid tanks 61A and 61B are detached from the liquid pumps 63A and 63B, the liquid can be prevented from leaking out of the liquid tanks 61A and 61B.

[0044] 3A and 3B are perspective views of the liquid agent supply unit 6 accommodating a single liquid agent tank 61C, and Fig. 3C is an exploded view of the liquid agent supply unit 6 accommodating a single liquid agent tank 61C.

[0045] 3A and 3B, the liquid agent tank 61 further includes a liquid agent tank 61C. Depending on the use of the washing machine 1, the user of the washing machine 1 can remove the liquid agent tanks 61A and 61B from the case 62 and place another liquid agent tank 61C in the case 62 in place of the liquid agent tanks 61A and 61B.

[0046] The case 62 can accommodate a single liquid agent tank 61C instead of the liquid agent tanks 61A and 61B. In other words, the liquid agent tanks 61A and 61B and the liquid agent tank 61C are interchangeable.

[0047] The liquid agent tank 61C is a container for storing a liquid agent. In the first embodiment, the liquid agent tank 61C stores a liquid agent that is frequently used by the user of the washing machine 1, such as a detergent.

[0048] The liquid tank 61C is accommodated alone in the case 62. That is, when the liquid tank 61C is accommodated in the case 62, the other liquid tanks 61A and 61B are not accommodated in the case 62.

[0049] The liquid agent tank 61C has a larger volume than each of the liquid agent tanks 61A and 61B. The liquid agent tank 61C may have a larger volume than the total volume of the liquid agent tanks 61A and 61B. This reduces the number of times the liquid agent tank 61C needs to be refilled, improving the usability of the washing machine 1 for the user.

[0050] As shown in Fig. 3B, the liquid agent tank 61C faces the liquid agent pumps 63A and 63B. More specifically, a back surface 74C (Fig. 3C) of the liquid agent tank 61C faces the suction portion 71A (Fig. 3C) of the liquid agent pump 63A and the suction portion 71B (Fig. 3C) of the liquid agent pump 63B.

[0051] As shown in FIG. 3C, a rear surface 74C of the liquid tank 61C is provided with a connection portion 69C into which the suction portion 71A of the liquid pump 63A is inserted. The connection portion 69C has a cylindrical structure extending into the interior of the liquid tank 61C. The connection portion 69C is provided at the bottom of the liquid tank 61C. In the first embodiment, the connection portion 69C is provided at the deepest part of the liquid tank 61C.

[0052] With this structure, suction portion 71A of liquid pump 63A passes through opening 68A, is connected to connection portion 69C, and communicates with liquid tank 61C. That is, the liquid in liquid tank 61C can flow into suction portion 71A.

[0053] On the other hand, a rear surface 74C of the liquid agent tank 61C does not have a connection portion corresponding to the suction portion 71B of the liquid agent pump 63B. Specifically, the rear surface 74C of the liquid agent tank 61C has a shape that avoids the suction portion 71B of the liquid agent pump 63B. Therefore, the suction portion 71B of the liquid agent pump 63B is not connected to the liquid agent tank 61C and is not in communication with the liquid agent tank 61C. In other words, the liquid agent in the liquid agent tank 61C cannot flow into the suction portion 71B.

[0054] The connecting portion 69C is provided with a valve, similar to the connecting portions 69A and 69B.

[0055] Next, the detailed structure of the case 62 will be described.

[0056] Fig. 4 is a perspective view of the case 62. Fig. 5A is a cross-sectional view of the liquid tanks 61A and 61B and the case 62 as viewed from the +X direction. Fig. 5B is a cross-sectional view of the liquid tank 61C and the case 62 as viewed from the +X direction.

[0057] 4, the bottom of the case 62 has a shape that is inclined in the Y direction that intersects with the central axis V0 (FIG. 1) of the outer tub 3 along the outer peripheral surface (see dotted line) of the outer tub 3. The bottom of the case 62 has a shape that is inclined downward toward the +Y direction.

[0058] The case 62 has an inner bottom surface S inside. The liquid tanks 61A to 61C are placed on the inner bottom surface S of the case 62. Specifically, the inner bottom surface S has a plurality of support portions S1 to S5 that support the liquid tanks 61A to 61C from below. The support portions S1 to S5 each extend in the X direction and are protruding portions that protrude upward from the inner bottom surface S on both sides in the Y direction. In the first embodiment, the support portions S1 to S5 each have a protruding flat surface that extends in the X direction and protrudes upward.

[0059] In the first embodiment, the support portions S1 to S5 have a protruding flat surface extending in the X direction, but the present invention is not limited to this. Each of the support portions S1 to S5 may be one or more protrusions that protrude upward from the surrounding inner bottom surface S.

[0060] The support portions S1, S2, S3, and S4 are aligned in order in the −Y direction, and when viewed from above, the support portion S5 is located between the support portion S2 and the support portion S3.

[0061] 5A and 5B, in embodiment 1, support portions S1, S2, and S5 protrude to a first height H1. Support portions S3 and S4 protrude to a second height H2 that is higher than the first height H1. Support portions S1, S2, and S5 are collectively referred to as support portion R, and support portions S3 and S4 are collectively referred to as support portion T.

[0062] As shown in Fig. 5A, the support portions S1 and S2 support the liquid tank 61A from below. In other words, the liquid tank 61A is located above the support portions S1 and S2 and is placed on the protruding flat surfaces of the support portions S1 and S2. The support portions S3 and S4 support the liquid tank 61B from below. In other words, the liquid tank 61B is located above the support portions S3 and S4 and is placed on the protruding flat surfaces of the support portions S3 and S4.

[0063] The bottom of the liquid reservoir 61B supported by the support portions S3 and S4 is located at a height higher than the bottom of the liquid reservoir 61A supported by the support portions S1 and S2.

[0064] The support part S5 is located on the -Y side of the liquid tank 61A and below the liquid tank 61B. The support part S5 is spaced apart from the liquid tank 61B in the up-down direction (Z direction).

[0065] 5B, the support portions S1 and S5 support the liquid tank 61C from below. In other words, the liquid tank 61C is located above the support portions S1 and S5 and placed on the protruding flat surfaces of the support portions S1 and S5.

[0066] The liquid tank 61C extends further toward the -Y side than the support portion S5. The liquid tank 61C extends to above the support portions S3 and S4. That is, a portion of the liquid tank 61C is located above the support portions S3 and S4. On the other hand, the liquid tank 61C is spaced apart from the support portions S3 and S4 in the up-down direction. The liquid tank 61C has a wall portion that extends obliquely upward above the support portions S3 and S4 to avoid the support portions S3 and S4. Specifically, the wall portion of the liquid tank 61C is inclined upward in the -Y direction above the support portions S3 and S4.

[0067] It is sufficient that a portion of the liquid agent tank 61C is located above at least a portion of the support portions S3 and S4.

[0068] The support part S2 is also located below the liquid agent tank 61C, but has a portion spaced apart in the vertical direction from the liquid agent tank 61C located directly above it. Of the legs provided on the bottom of the liquid agent tank 61C, the portions extending in the X direction (portions 83C, 84C) are supported only by the support parts S1, S5 and are offset in the Y direction from the support part S2. Note that, of the legs provided on the bottom of the liquid agent tank 61C, the portions extending in the Y direction may be supported by the support part S2.

[0069] As described above, in the liquid agent supply unit 6, the case 62 has support portions S1 to S5 for supporting the liquid agent tanks 61A to 61C, respectively, and the liquid agent tank 61C has a shape that avoids the support portions S3 and S4. Therefore, the liquid agent tank 61C can be housed in the case 62 that can house the liquid agent tanks 61A and 61B, and can be stably supported.

[0070] The spacing between the support parts can be increased by supporting the liquid agent tank 61C by support part S5, which is located on the -Y side of support part S2, i.e., is farther away from support part S1. Increasing the spacing makes it easier to position the center of gravity G of the liquid agent tank 61C within the spacing, and the liquid agent tank 61C can be supported more stably.

[0071] 4, support portion S1 and support portion S2 are spaced apart in the Y direction. A flow path 51 is formed between support portion S1 and support portion S2, extending in the X direction toward opening 67 to which connection flow path 8 is connected. When the water and liquid agent flowing through liquid agent discharge flow path 64 enters case 62, they flow into connection flow path 8 through flow path 51.

[0072] Support portion S3 and support portion S4 are spaced apart in the Y direction. Support portion S2 and support portion S5 are spaced apart in the Y direction. Flow paths for flowing the liquid agent are formed between support portions S3 and S4 and between support portions S2 and S5.

[0073] Next, the detailed structure of the liquid agent tanks 61A to 61C will be described.

[0074] Fig. 6 is a perspective view of the liquid tanks 61A and 61B showing the bottoms of the liquid tanks 61A and 61B. Fig. 7 is a schematic bottom view of the liquid tanks 61A and 61B when viewed from below.

[0075] 6, the liquid agent tank 61A has a tank body 77A that stores the liquid agent. The top of the tank body 77A is closed by a lid 78A.

[0076] 7, legs 82A are provided at the bottom of the tank body 77A to allow the liquid agent tank 61A to stand on its own. The legs 82A extend downward from the bottom 81A. The legs 82A extend downward beyond the connecting portion 69A.

[0077] Leg 82A has a first portion 83A and a second portion 84A spaced apart from first portion 83A in the Y direction. First portion 83A and second portion 84A extend in the X direction. In the first embodiment, first portion 83A and second portion 84A extend downward to the same height.

[0078] The first portion 83A is located on one side of the center of gravity of the liquid reservoir 61A, and the second portion 84A is located on the other side of the center of gravity of the liquid reservoir 61A. In other words, the center of gravity of the liquid reservoir 61A is located between the first portion 83A and the second portion 84A.

[0079] In this specification, the "center of gravity" of a liquid tank refers to the center of gravity when a given amount of liquid is contained in the liquid tank, and refers to the center of gravity of the liquid tank in any state.

[0080] 5A, when the liquid agent tank 61A is housed in the case 62, the leg portion 82A stands on its own on the inner bottom surface S of the case 62. Specifically, the first portion 83A stands on its own in contact with the support portion S1 of the case 62, and the second portion 84A stands on its own in contact with the support portion S2 of the case 62.

[0081] When the liquid agent tank 61A is removed from the case 62 and placed on a predetermined work surface such as a desk or shelf, the legs 82A come into contact with the work surface and stand upright.

[0082] 6, the leg portion 82A has a notch 87A at a position opposite the connecting portion 69A. The notch 87A allows water or the liquid agent to flow below the liquid agent tank 61A.

[0083] The liquid agent tank 61B has a tank body 77B that stores the liquid agent. The top of the tank body 77B is closed by a lid 78B.

[0084] As shown in Fig. 7, legs 82B are provided at the bottom of tank body 77B to allow liquid agent tank 61B to stand on its own. Legs 85B are further provided at the bottom of tank body 77B, positioned on the +Y side of legs 82B (area surrounded by dotted lines). Legs 82B and 85B extend downward from bottom 81B. Legs 82B and 85B extend downward further than connecting portion 69B.

[0085] Leg 82B has a first portion 83B and a second portion 84B spaced apart in the Y direction from first portion 83B. First portion 83B and second portion 84B extend in the X direction. Leg 85B has a portion 86B that extends in the X direction and is spaced apart in the Y direction from first portion 83B. In the first embodiment, first portion 83B, second portion 84B, and portion 86B extend downward to the same height.

[0086] The first portion 83B and the portion 86B are located on one side of the center of gravity of the liquid reservoir 61B, and the second portion 84B is located on the other side of the center of gravity of the liquid reservoir 61B. In other words, the center of gravity of the liquid reservoir 61B is located between the first portion 83B and the second portion 84B.

[0087] 5A, when the liquid agent tank 61B is housed in the case 62, the leg 82B stands on its own on the inner bottom surface S of the case 62. Specifically, the first portion 83B stands on its own in contact with the support portion S3 of the case 62, and the second portion 84B stands on its own in contact with the support portion S4 of the case 62. Meanwhile, a portion of the leg 85B including the portion 86B is located on the +Y side of the support portion S3. The portion of the leg 85B including the portion 86B is located above the support portion R and is spaced apart from the support portion R in the up-down direction.

[0088] When the liquid agent tank 61B is removed from the case 62 and placed on a work surface such as a desk or shelf, the legs 82B and 85B come into contact with the work surface and stand on their own. Because the distance between the second portion 84B of the leg 82B and the portion 86B of the leg 85B is wider than the distance between the first portion 83B and the second portion 84B, providing the leg 85B makes it easy to make the liquid agent tank 61B stand on its own stably.

[0089] Fig. 8 is a perspective view of the liquid agent tank 61C showing the bottom of the liquid agent tank 61C. Fig. 9 and Fig. 10 are perspective views of the liquid agent tank 61C showing the inside of the liquid agent tank 61C. Fig. 10 shows the liquid agent tank 61C without the filter 99.

[0090] 8, the liquid agent tank 61C has a tank body 77C that stores the liquid agent. The top of the tank body 77C is closed by a lid 78C.

[0091] The liquid tank 61C has a shape whose depth increases in the +Y direction. Specifically, a bottom 81C of the liquid tank 61C is located at a lower position in the +Y direction.

[0092] The bottom 81C of the liquid agent tank 61C has a first bottom 91 and a second bottom 92. The first bottom 91 is a portion that slopes downward toward the +Y direction. The second bottom 92 is a portion that is connected to the lower end of the first bottom 91 and extends in the Y direction. Therefore, the second bottom 92 is located at a lower position than the first bottom 91. The second bottom 92 slopes downward toward the connecting portion 69C.

[0093] As shown in FIG. 5B, the first bottom portion 91 is located above the support portions S3 and S4, and the second bottom portion 92 is located above the support portion S1.

[0094] Returning to FIG. 8, the rear surface 74C of the liquid agent tank 61C has a rear surface portion 93 and a rear surface portion 94. The rear surface portion 93 is connected to the first bottom portion 91 from the X direction and is a portion that slopes downward toward the first bottom portion 91 (-X direction). The rear surface portion 94 is located on the +Y side of the rear surface portion 93 and is a portion where a connection port 95 of the connection portion 69C is provided. The connection port 95 is an opening that faces the space outside the liquid agent tank 61C. The rear surface portion 94 extends at an angle closer to the vertical direction than the rear surface portion 93.

[0095] As shown in FIG. 9, the liquid agent tank 61C has a plurality of inclined surfaces B1, B2, B3 and a filter 99 inside.

[0096] The inclined surface B1 corresponds to the first bottom portion 91, the inclined surface B2 corresponds to the second bottom portion 92, and the inclined surface B3 corresponds to the rear surface portion 93. That is, the inclined surfaces B1, B2, and B3 are the inner wall surfaces of the liquid agent tank 61C that constitute the first bottom portion 91, the second bottom portion 92, and the rear surface portion 93, respectively.

[0097] The inclined surfaces B1, B2, and B3 are directly connected to one another. The inclined surface B1 is aligned with the inclined surface B2 in the Y direction and is connected to the inclined surface B2. The inclined surface B3 is aligned with the inclined surface B1 in the X direction and is connected to the inclined surface B1.

[0098] In other words, inclined surfaces B2 and B3 each share at least one side with inclined surface B1. Inclined surfaces B1 and B2 share a side extending along the X direction, and inclined surfaces B1 and B3 share a side extending along the Y direction.

[0099] Inclined surfaces B1, B2, and B3 are each inclined in a different direction relative to the horizontal. Inclined surface B3 is inclined downward toward inclined surface B1 (-X direction). Inclined surface B1 is inclined downward toward inclined surface B2 (+Y direction). Inclined surface B2 is inclined downward toward connecting portion 69C (Figure 10), i.e., toward the +X direction. Therefore, the liquid in liquid agent tank 61C flows along inclined surface B3, inclined surface B1, and inclined surface B2, in that order.

[0100] In the first embodiment, the inclination angle of the inclined surface B3 is larger than the inclination angles of the inclined surfaces B1 and B2. The inclination angle of the inclined surface B3 is, for example, 45°. The inclination angle of the inclined surface B1 is also larger than the inclination angle of the inclined surface B2.

[0101] 10, a connection portion 69C is disposed below the filter 99. The filter 99 is a filter for preventing foreign matter from being sucked into the connection portion 69C.

[0102] Below the filter 99, the liquid agent tank 61C forms a recess 98 that accommodates the connection portion 69C. That is, the recess 98 is covered by the filter 99. The recess 98 corresponds to the rear surface portion 94. That is, an inner wall surface that defines at least a portion of the recess 98 is formed by the rear surface portion 94.

[0103] An inner bottom surface 96 of the recess 98 is formed at a position lower than the lower end of the inclined surface B2, and forms the deepest part of the liquid agent tank 61 C. The connection portion 69C is disposed along the inner bottom surface 96.

[0104] The connecting portion 69C has a suction port 97. The liquid pump 63A sucks the liquid, which has passed through the filter 99 and flowed into the recess 98, from the liquid tank 61C through the suction port 97. In consideration of the flow of the liquid, the filter 99 is located upstream of the connecting portion 69C.

[0105] As shown in FIG. 9, the filter 99 is inclined downward relative to the horizontal toward the inclined surface B2. The filter 99 is inclined along the inclined surface B3. In the first embodiment, the inclination of the filter 99 matches the inclination of the inclined surface B3 and extends on approximately the same plane. This structure simplifies the internal structure of the liquid agent tank 61C.

[0106] Compared to when the filter 99 and the inclined surface B3 extend on different planes, there is no structure between the filter 99 and the inclined surface B3 that obstructs the flow of the liquid, so the liquid is more likely to collect near the connection portion 69C. In addition, the liquid is less likely to remain, making it easier for the user to clean the liquid tank 61C.

[0107] Furthermore, the width of the inclined surface B2 in the Y direction decreases toward the filter 99. With this configuration, the liquid agent can be more reliably guided to the connecting portion 69C.

[0108] Returning to FIG. 8, since the connection port 95 is provided in the rear surface portion 94, the suction portion 71A (FIG. 3C) of the liquid pump 63A faces the rear surface portion 94 and is inserted into the connection portion 69C.

[0109] On the other hand, the suction portion 71B (FIG. 3C) of the liquid agent pump 63B is disposed at a position facing the rear surface portion 93.

[0110] FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view of the liquid agent supply unit 6 accommodating the liquid agent tank 61C. As shown in FIG. 11, the rear surface portion 93 is spaced apart from the suction portion 71B and is spaced apart from the suction portion 71B in the vertical and X directions. When viewed from above, the rear surface portion 93 overlaps with at least the tip of the suction portion 71B, and when viewed from the Y direction, the rear surface portion 93 is inclined. Specifically, the rear surface portion 93 is inclined downward from above the suction portion 71B toward the tip of the suction portion 71B. The inclination of the rear surface portion 93 prevents interference between the liquid agent tank 61C and the suction portion 71B.

[0111] In the first embodiment, rear surface portion 93 is inclined, but is not limited to such a shape. When rear surface portion 93 is located on the -X side of suction portion 71B, rear surface portion 93 may extend vertically.

[0112] Fig. 12 is a schematic bottom view of the liquid reagent tank 61C when viewed from below. As shown in Fig. 12, legs 82C are provided at the bottom of the tank body 77C to allow the liquid reagent tank 61C to stand on its own. The legs 82C extend downward from the bottom 81C and the back surface portion 94. The legs 82C extend downward beyond the connecting portion 69C.

[0113] The leg 82C has a first portion 83C and a second portion 84C spaced apart in the Y direction from the first portion 83C. The first portion 83C and the second portion 84C extend in the X direction. In the first embodiment, the first portion 83C and the second portion 84C extend downward to the same height.

[0114] The first portion 83C is provided on the second bottom portion 92 and extends downward from an end portion 92F remote from the first bottom portion 91. The second portion 84C is provided on the first bottom portion 91. The second portion 84C is located closer to an end portion 91F of the first bottom portion 91 adjacent to the second bottom portion 92 than to an end portion 91E of the first bottom portion 91 remote from the second bottom portion 92.

[0115] The leg portion 82C is provided at a position offset from the center position of the liquid tank 61C in the Y direction. As shown in Fig. 5B, when viewed from the X direction, a center line Lc of the leg portion 82C passing through the midpoint between the first portion 83C and the second portion 84C is offset from the center line L of the liquid tank 61C passing through the midpoint between both ends of the liquid tank 61C in the Y direction. Specifically, the center line Lc of the leg portion 82C is offset from the center line L of the liquid tank 61C in the direction in which the depth of the liquid tank 61C increases (+Y direction). Furthermore, the second portion 84C is provided at a position closer to the center line L of the liquid tank 61C in the Y direction than the first portion 83C.

[0116] Due to the offset arrangement of the leg portion 82C, the center of gravity G of the liquid tank 61C, which is offset from the center line L of the liquid tank 61C, can be located between the first portion 83C and the second portion 84C. The first portion 83C is located on one side of the center of gravity G of the liquid tank 61C, and the second portion 84C is located on the other side of the center of gravity G of the liquid tank 61C. Note that as long as the center of gravity G of the liquid tank 61C is located between the first portion 83C and the second portion 84C, part or all of the second portion 84C may be provided on the second bottom portion 92.

[0117] When the liquid agent tank 61C is housed in the case 62, the leg 82C stands on its own on the inner bottom surface S of the case 62. Specifically, the first portion 83C stands on its own in contact with the support portion S1 of the case 62, and the second portion 84C stands on its own in contact with the support portion S5 of the case 62. Meanwhile, the first portion 83C and the second portion 84C are spaced apart in the Y direction from the support portion S2. Note that the portions of the leg 82C extending along the Y direction from the X-direction ends of the portions 83C and 84C may be in contact with the support portion S2.

[0118] When the liquid agent tank 61C is removed from the case 62 and placed on a predetermined work surface such as a desk or shelf, the legs 82C stand on the work surface by themselves.

[0119] 12, the leg portion 82C has a notch 87C at a position opposite the connecting portion 69C. The notch 87C allows water or the liquid to flow downward from the liquid tank 61C.

[0120] Fig. 13 is a schematic top view of the case 62 accommodating the liquid tank 61A and the liquid tank 61B. Fig. 14 is a schematic top view of the case 62 accommodating the liquid tank 61C.

[0121] 13 and 14, in order to accommodate the liquid tanks 61A to 61C in an exchangeable manner, the case 62 has a plurality of pins 103 to 106 for fixing the liquid tanks 61A to 61C, respectively. The pins 103 to 106 are lined up in the −Y direction in the order of pin 103, pin 104, pin 105, and pin 106.

[0122] The case 62 has pins 103 to 106 that protrude inward at positions facing the back surfaces 74A to 74C of the liquid agent tanks 61A to 61C. When viewed from the top and bottom, the tips of the pins 103 to 106 each extend outward in the Y direction. Therefore, hook-shaped protrusions can engage with the pins 103 to 106 from both sides in the Y direction.

[0123] As shown in FIG. 13 , the liquid agent tank 61A has a pair of protrusions 113 and 114 that protrude outward on the back surface 74A. The protrusions 113 and 114 have a hook shape. The protrusion 113 hooks onto the pin 103, and the protrusion 114 hooks onto the pin 104. The liquid agent tank 61B has a pair of protrusions 115 and 116 that protrude outward on the back surface 74B. The protrusions 115 and 116 have a hook shape. The protrusion 115 hooks onto the pin 105, and the protrusion 116 hooks onto the pin 106.

[0124] As shown in FIG. 14, the liquid reservoir 61C has a pair of protrusions 124, 125 that protrude outward on the back surface 74C. The protrusions 124, 125 have a hook shape. The protrusion 124 hooks onto the pin 104, and the protrusion 125 hooks onto the pin 105. Specifically, the protrusion 124 hooks onto the side surface R3 of the pin 104, which is opposite to the side surface R1 (FIG. 13) on which the protrusion 114 of the liquid reservoir 61A hooks. The protrusion 125 hooks onto the side surface R4 of the pin 105, which is opposite to the side surface R2 (FIG. 13) on which the protrusion 115 of the liquid reservoir 61B hooks.

[0125] With this configuration, the liquid tanks 61A, 61B and the liquid tank 61C can be interchangeably housed in the case 62 having a common structure, without providing different pins for the liquid tanks 61A, 61B and the liquid tank 61C.

[0126] The user can release the engagement between the pins 103 to 106 and the protrusions 113 to 116, 124 to 125 by pulling the liquid agent tanks 61A to 61C in the X direction.

[0127] [summary] The above explanations are summarized to describe the features of the present disclosure.

[0128] In the washing machine 1 according to the first embodiment, the case 62 can interchangeably accommodate the liquid agent tanks 61A and 61B and the liquid agent tank 61C without changing the shape of the case 62. Specifically, the liquid agent tank 61C shares the support portion R of the case 62 with the liquid agent tank 61A. On the other hand, the liquid agent tank 61C has a first bottom portion 91 that is inclined so as to avoid the support portion T for the liquid agent tank 61B.

[0129] Furthermore, the liquid agent tank 61C shares the suction portion 71A of the liquid agent pump 63A with the liquid agent tank 61A. On the other hand, the liquid agent tank 61C has a rear surface portion 93 that is inclined so as to avoid the suction portion 71B of the liquid agent pump 63B that is connected to the liquid agent tank 61B.

[0130] By sloping the first bottom portion 91 and the back surface portion 93, it becomes possible to share the case 62 and to easily increase the capacity of the liquid agent tank 61C. Furthermore, by having a plurality of inclined surfaces B1, B3 inside the liquid agent tank 61C corresponding to the first bottom portion 91 and the back surface portion 93, it becomes easier to guide the liquid agent in the liquid agent tank 61C to the connection portion 69C and to prevent the liquid agent from remaining.

[0131] [Effect 1] The washing machine 1 according to the first embodiment can achieve the following effects.

[0132] The washing machine 1 of the first embodiment includes a rotatable washing tub 4, an outer tub 3 provided outside the washing tub 4, a liquid agent tank 61C that stores a liquid agent, and a case 62 that houses the liquid agent tank 61C. The liquid agent tank 61C is placed on the inner bottom surface S of the case 62. The inner bottom surface S has a support portion R (first support portion) that protrudes upward to a first height H1, and a support portion T (second support portion) that protrudes upward to a second height H2 that is higher than the first height H1. The liquid agent tank 61C (first liquid agent tank) is located above the support portion R and the support portion T, and is supported by the first support portion while being spaced apart from the support portion T.

[0133] With this configuration, a large-capacity liquid agent tank 61C can be used, and rattles during installation can be suppressed by the liquid agent tank 61C coming into contact with the support part R and being separated from the support part T. Therefore, when using the liquid agent tank 61C, the user's convenience regarding the automatic dispensing function is improved.

[0134] In the washing machine 1 of embodiment 1, the case 62 can accommodate a liquid agent tank 61A (second liquid agent tank) supported by the support portion R and a liquid agent tank 61B (third liquid agent tank) supported by the support portion T, instead of the liquid agent tank 61C.

[0135] With this configuration, the liquid tanks 61A and 61B can be replaced with the liquid tank 61C according to the user's needs, further improving the ease of use for the user regarding the automatic dispensing function.

[0136] In the washing machine 1 of embodiment 1, the liquid agent tank 61B has a leg 82B (first leg) that contacts the support part T and stands on its own, and a leg 85B (second leg) that is positioned above the support part R and has a gap between it and the support part R when the liquid agent tank 61B is supported by the support part T.

[0137] With this configuration, the liquid tank 61B can stand on its own in the case 62. By providing the legs 85B separated from the legs 82B, the liquid tank 61B can stand on its own more stably even when removed from the case 62. Furthermore, since a support for placing the legs 85B can be omitted from the case 62, the case 62 can be provided at a lower position below the legs 85B, and the capacity of the liquid tank 61C can be increased.

[0138] In the washing machine 1 of embodiment 1, the support portion R has a support portion S5 (first part) that supports the liquid agent tank 61C and a support portion S2 (second part) that supports the liquid agent tank 61A, and when viewed from above, the support portion S5 is located between the support portion S2 and the support portion T.

[0139] With this configuration, it is easier to increase the volume of the liquid agent tank 61C compared to when the support portion S2 is disposed closer to the support portion T than the support portion S5.

[0140] In the washing machine 1 of the first embodiment, the liquid agent tank 61C has legs 82C that come into contact with the support R and stand on their own.

[0141] With this configuration, the liquid agent tank 61C can stand upright in the case 62.

[0142] In the washing machine 1 of the first embodiment, the liquid agent tank 61C has a shape in which the depth increases in the +Y direction (first direction) from the support portion T toward the support portion R.

[0143] With this configuration, the shape of the liquid reservoir 61C can be matched to the shape of the case 62, making it easier to increase the volume of the liquid reservoir 61C.

[0144] In the washing machine 1 of the first embodiment, the liquid agent tank 61C has a first bottom portion 91 inclined downward in the +Y direction and a second bottom portion 92 connected to the lower end of the first bottom portion 91.

[0145] With this configuration, the shape of the liquid reservoir 61C can be matched to the shape of the case 62, making it easier to increase the volume of the liquid reservoir 61C.

[0146] In the washing machine 1 of the first embodiment, the leg portion 82C of the liquid agent tank 61C is provided at a position offset in the direction in which the depth increases with respect to the center position of the liquid agent tank 61C in the Y direction.

[0147] With this configuration, the center of gravity G of the liquid tank 61C can be easily positioned above the legs 82C, making it easier to make the liquid tank 61C stand stably.

[0148] In the washing machine 1 of the first embodiment, the leg portion 82C of the liquid agent tank 61C has a first portion 83C and a second portion 84C spaced apart in the Y direction from the first portion 83C. The second portion 84C is provided at a position farther away from the center position of the liquid agent tank 61C in the Y direction than the first portion 83C.

[0149] With this configuration, the center of gravity G of the liquid agent tank 61C can be easily positioned between the first portion 83C and the second portion 84C.

[0150] In the washing machine 1 of the first embodiment, the inner bottom surface S of the liquid agent tank 61C has a plurality of inclined surfaces inclined in different directions.

[0151] Such a configuration makes it easy to guide the liquid in the liquid tank 61C and collect it at a predetermined position.

[0152] In the washing machine 1 of embodiment 1, the inclined surfaces B1 to B3 include an inclined surface B1 (first inclined surface) that slopes downward toward the +Y direction, and an inclined surface B2 (second inclined surface) that is connected to the lower end of the inclined surface B1 and slopes downward toward the X direction that intersects with the +Y direction.

[0153] With this configuration, the liquid agent in the liquid agent tank 61C can be guided from the inclined surface B1 toward the lower end of the inclined surface B2.

[0154] Washing machine 1 of embodiment 1 further includes liquid agent pump 63C (liquid agent supplying device) that sucks out the liquid agent stored in liquid agent tank 61C and supplies it to washing tub 4. Liquid agent tank 61C has a connection part 69C to which liquid agent pump 63C is connected. Connection part 69C is located on one side of inclined surface B1 in the X direction, and inclined surfaces B1 to B3 further include inclined surface B3 (third inclined surface) that is inclined downward toward inclined surface B1 on one side of inclined surface B1 in the X direction.

[0155] With this configuration, the liquid agent in the liquid agent tank 61C can be guided from the inclined surface B3 to the connecting portion 69C via the inclined surfaces B1 and B2, thereby preventing the liquid agent from remaining in the liquid agent tank 61C.

[0156] In the washing machine 1 of the first embodiment, the liquid agent tank 61C has a filter 99, which is arranged in the Y direction with the inclined surface B3 and is inclined along the inclined surface B3, upstream of the connecting portion 69C.

[0157] This configuration can prevent the liquid agent from remaining between the inclined surface B3 and the filter 99. Furthermore, it becomes easier for the user to clean and maintain the liquid agent tank 61C.

[0158] In washing machine 1 of embodiment 1, support portion R and support portion T are arranged side by side in a direction along the outer circumferential surface of outer tub 3.

[0159] With this configuration, when the central axis V0 of the outer tub 3 is inclined relative to the horizontal, the space above the outer tub 3 can be effectively utilized, and the volume of the liquid agent tanks 61A to 61C can be increased.

[0160] [Effect 2]

[0161] Washing machine 1 of embodiment 1 includes rotatable washing tub 4, liquid agent tank 61C that stores a liquid agent, case 62 that houses liquid agent tank 61C, and liquid agent supply device 63 that sucks out the liquid agent stored in liquid agent tank 61C and supplies it to washing tub 4. Liquid agent supply device 63 has suction portion 71A (first suction portion) and suction portion 71B (second suction portion), at least one of which is connectable to liquid agent tank 61C. When housed in case 62, liquid agent tank 61C faces suction portion 71A and suction portion 71B, and is in communication with suction portion 71A but not in communication with suction portion 71B.

[0162] With this configuration, it is possible to arrange two suction sections 71A, 71B that can accommodate two liquid tanks 61A, 61B, while also making it possible to arrange one liquid tank 61C in place of the liquid tanks 61A, 61B, thereby improving the ease of use for the user regarding the automatic dispensing function.

[0163] In washing machine 1 of embodiment 1, liquid agent tank 61C has connection part 69C (first connection part) to which suction part 71A is connected, and suction part 71A and connection part 69C are in communication with each other.

[0164] With this configuration, the liquid can be sucked out from the liquid tank 61C by the suction part 71A compatible with the liquid tank 61A.

[0165] In washing machine 1 of the first embodiment, liquid agent tank 61C has back surface portion 93 (first wall surface) at a position facing suction portion 71B and spaced apart from the tip of suction portion 71B.

[0166] With this configuration, interference between the liquid agent tank 61C and the suction portion 71B can be avoided.

[0167] In washing machine 1 of the first embodiment, rear surface portion 93 overlaps with suction portion 71B when viewed from above, and is inclined relative to the up-down direction when viewed from the direction in which suction portions 71A and 71B are aligned.

[0168] With this configuration, the volume of the liquid tank 61C can be increased while avoiding interference between the liquid tank 61C and the suction portion 71B.

[0169] In the washing machine 1 of embodiment 1, the liquid agent tank 61C has a rear portion 94 (second wall surface) at a position facing the suction portion 71A that protrudes toward the suction portion 71A relative to the rear portion 93, and the rear portion 94 defines a recess 98 that accommodates the connection portion 69C.

[0170] With this configuration, the volume of the liquid agent tank 61C can be increased.

[0171] In the washing machine 1 of the first embodiment, the liquid agent tank 61C has a filter 99 inclined along the wall surface at a position that covers the recess 98.

[0172] This configuration can prevent the liquid agent from remaining between the filter 99 and the inclined surface B3 on the inside of the rear surface portion 93. In addition, it becomes easier for the user to clean and maintain the liquid agent tank 61C.

[0173] The washing machine 1 of the first embodiment includes a liquid pump 63A (first liquid supply device) having a suction portion 71A, and a liquid pump 63B (second liquid supply device) having a suction portion 71B.

[0174] With this configuration, the liquid pumps 63A and 63B can be disposed at different positions corresponding to the liquid tanks 61A and 61B, respectively. Therefore, the lengths of the suction portions 71A and 71B can be made constant, and variations in the discharge amounts of the liquid pumps 63A and 63B can be suppressed.

[0175] In washing machine 1 of the first embodiment, case 62 can accommodate liquid agent tank 61A connected to suction portion 71A and liquid agent tank 61B connected to suction portion 71B, instead of liquid agent tank 61C.

[0176] With this configuration, the liquid tanks 61A, 61B and the liquid tank 61C can be replaced according to the user's needs without changing the configuration of the suction part of the liquid tank 61 or providing an additional suction part.

[0177] In washing machine 1 of the first embodiment, suction part 71A is disposed at a lower position than suction part 71B.

[0178] With this configuration, it becomes easy to make the suction portions 71A and 71B correspond to the liquid agent tanks 61A and 61B having different depths.

[0179] The present disclosure is not limited to the above-described embodiment, but can be embodied in various other forms.

[0180] Although the example in which the liquid supply unit 6 has the liquid tanks 61A, 61B and the liquid tank 61C interchangeably has been described, the present invention is not limited to this. The liquid supply unit 6 may have only the liquid tank 61C. In this case, the liquid pump 63B may be omitted. Also, the opening 68B in the case 62 may be sealed or omitted. The opening in the liquid discharge flow path 64 that receives the discharge portion 72B of the liquid pump 63B may be sealed or omitted. In the liquid tank 61C, the rear surface portion 93 may extend in the up-down direction.

[0181] Although the example in which the liquid tanks 61A and 61B are housed simultaneously in the case 62 has been described, the present invention is not limited to this. The liquid tanks 61A and 61B may be housed individually in the case 62.

[0182] Although the washing machine 1 has been described as having a plurality of liquid pumps 63A and 63B, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the washing machine 1 may have one liquid pump having a plurality of suction portions 71A and 71B.

[0183] Although the liquid pumps 63A and 63B have been described as an example of the liquid supply device, the liquid supply device is not limited to this and may be a device that supplies the liquid using an aspirator or a solenoid valve.

[0184] Although the suction portions 71A, 71B of the liquid pumps 63A, 63B extend in the X direction in the above example, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the suction portions 71A, 71B of the liquid pumps 63A, 63B may extend in the vertical direction. In this case, the liquid tanks 61A, 61C are connected to the suction portion 71A from above, and the liquid tank 61B is connected to the suction portion 71B from above. Because the first bottom portion 91 of the liquid tank 61C is inclined, the liquid tank 61C is spaced apart from the upper end of the suction portion 71B.

[0185] Although the example has been described in which, when the liquid tank 61C is housed in the case 62, the suction portion 71B of the liquid pump 63B is spaced from the rear surface portion 93 of the liquid tank 61C, the present invention is not limited to this. As shown in Modification 1 described below, the liquid tank 61C may have a connection portion to which the suction portion 71B is connected, which is not in communication with the internal space of the liquid tank 61C that houses the liquid. In this case, even when the suction portion 71B is connected to the connection portion of the liquid tank 61C, the suction portion 71B and the liquid tank 61C are not in communication with each other.

[0186] Although the example has been described in which suction portions 71A, 71B have a convex shape and connection portions 69A to 69C have a concave shape to receive suction portion 71A or 71B, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, connection portions 69A to 69C may have a convex shape and be inserted into suction portions 71A, 71B having a concave shape.

[0187] Although the example in which the support portions S1, S2, S5 (support portions R) and the support portions S3, S4 (support portions T) are aligned along the Y direction intersecting with the central axis V0 of the outer tub 3 has been described, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the support portions S1, S2, S5 (support portions R) and the support portions S3, S4 (support portions T) may be aligned along the central axis V0. The support portions S1, S2, S5 (support portions R) and the support portions S3, S4 (support portions T) may be aligned in different positions along the direction along the outer peripheral surface of the outer tub 3.

[0188] (Variation 1) FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional view of a liquid medicine supply unit 206 in the first modification.

[0189] Unless otherwise specified, the configuration of the liquid drug supply unit 206 in Modification 1 is the same as the configuration of the liquid drug supply unit 6 in Embodiment 1. In Modification 1, components that are the same as or equivalent to those in Embodiment 1 are denoted by the same reference numerals and will be described. Also, in Modification 1, descriptions that overlap with those in Embodiment 1 will be omitted.

[0190] 15, the liquid agent supply unit 206 has a liquid agent tank 261C that can be accommodated therein, instead of the liquid agent tank 61C of the liquid agent supply unit 6 in the embodiment 1. The liquid agent tank 261C has a connection part 69C to which the suction part 71A of the liquid agent pump 63A is connected, and also has a cylindrical part 269C to which the suction part 71B of the liquid agent pump 63B is inserted.

[0191] The cylindrical portion 269C has a cylindrical structure extending into the liquid agent tank 261C and defines a space K1 therein. The cylindrical shape of the cylindrical portion 269C is open at one end and sealed at the other end. Specifically, the cylindrical portion 269C has an insertion opening 295 that opens toward the outside of the liquid agent tank 261C at one end and into which the suction portion 71B of the liquid agent pump 63B is inserted. The cylindrical portion 269C has a wall portion 270 at the other end on the opposite side. The wall portion 270 seals the space K1 inside the cylindrical portion 269C from the internal space K2 in which the liquid agent is accommodated in the liquid agent tank 261C. In other words, the wall portion 270 restricts the flow of the liquid agent between the space K1 and the internal space K2, and the cylindrical portion 269C and the internal space K2 are not in communication with each other.

[0192] Even with this configuration, it is possible to arrange two suction portions 71A and 71B and prevent suction portion 71B from hitting and interfering with the wall portion of liquid agent tank 261C. Furthermore, since internal space K2 that stores the liquid agent can be extended to above cylindrical portion 269C, it is easy to increase the volume of liquid agent tank 261C.

[0193] In the first modification, the outer peripheral surface of suction portion 71B is provided with packing 280 that goes around the outer peripheral surface. Packing 280 is in close contact with the inner peripheral surface of cylindrical portion 269C, sealing cylindrical portion 269C.

[0194] This configuration can prevent suction portion 71B inserted into cylindrical portion 269C from coming into contact with the outside air, thereby preventing the liquid agent remaining in suction portion 71B from drying out.

[0195] Although the example has been described in which the outer peripheral surface of suction portion 71B and the inner peripheral surface of cylindrical portion 269C are in close contact with each other via packing 280, the present invention is not limited to this. Fig. 16 is a cross-sectional view of liquid agent supply unit 306 in another modified example having liquid agent tank 361C. As shown in Fig. 16, a gap may be provided between the outer peripheral surface of suction portion 71B and the inner peripheral surface of cylindrical portion 369C.

[0196] In the first embodiment, the liquid agent tanks 61A, 61B, and 61C are liquid agent tanks provided in the washing machine 1, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the liquid agent tanks 61A, 61B, and 61C may be provided in other cleaning devices such as a dishwasher. In this case, the liquid agent stored in the liquid agent tanks 61A, 61B, and 61C is supplied to a storage tank that stores an object to be cleaned.

[0197] The washing machine in a first aspect includes a rotatable washing tub, a liquid agent tank for storing a liquid agent, a case for accommodating the liquid agent tank, and a liquid agent supplying device for sucking out the liquid agent stored in the liquid agent tank and supplying it to the washing tub. The liquid agent supplying device has a first suction section and a second suction section, at least one of which is connectable to the liquid agent tank. As the liquid agent tank, a first liquid agent tank is arranged facing the first suction section and the second suction section when accommodated in the case, and is connected to the first suction section but not connected to the second suction section.

[0198] As a washing machine in a second aspect, in the washing machine in the first aspect, the first liquid agent tank has a first connection part to which the first suction part is connected, and the first suction part and the first connection part are in communication with each other.

[0199] In a third aspect of the washing machine, in the washing machine of the second aspect, the first liquid agent tank has a first wall surface facing the second suction portion and spaced apart from the tip of the second suction portion.

[0200] As a fourth aspect of the washing machine, in the washing machine of the third aspect, the first wall surface overlaps with the second suction section when viewed from above, and is inclined relative to the vertical direction when viewed from the direction in which the first suction section and the second suction section are aligned.

[0201] As a washing machine in a fifth aspect, in the washing machine in the fourth aspect, the first liquid agent tank has a second wall surface at a position facing the first suction portion that protrudes toward the first suction portion relative to the first wall surface, and the second wall surface defines a recess that accommodates the first connection portion.

[0202] A sixth aspect of the invention relates to the washing machine of the fifth aspect, wherein the first liquid agent tank has a filter inclined along the first wall surface at a position that covers the recess.

[0203] As a washing machine in a seventh aspect, in the washing machine in the first aspect, the first liquid agent tank has a first connection portion to which the first suction portion is connected and a tubular portion into which the second suction portion is inserted, and the tubular portion and the internal space of the first liquid agent tank are not connected to each other.

[0204] As a washing machine according to an eighth aspect, in the washing machine according to the seventh aspect, a gap is provided between the outer peripheral surface of the second suction portion and the inner peripheral surface of the cylindrical portion.

[0205] A washing machine according to a ninth aspect is the washing machine according to the seventh aspect, wherein a packing is provided on the outer circumferential surface of the second suction portion so as to be in close contact with the inner circumferential surface of the cylindrical portion.

[0206] A washing machine in a tenth aspect is the washing machine in any one of the first to ninth aspects, further comprising a first liquid agent supplying device having a first suction section and a second liquid agent supplying device having a second suction section as the liquid agent supplying devices.

[0207] As a washing machine in an eleventh aspect, in a washing machine in any of the first to tenth aspects, the case can be provided with a second liquid tank connected to the first suction port and a third liquid tank connected to the second suction port instead of the first liquid tank.

[0208] A washing machine according to a twelfth aspect is the washing machine according to any one of the first to eleventh aspects, wherein the first suction section is disposed at a lower position than the second suction section.

[0209] A thirteenth aspect of the invention relates to the washing machine of the twelfth aspect, wherein the first liquid agent tank has a shape whose depth increases in a first direction from the second suction port toward the first suction port.

[0210] As a washing machine in a 14th aspect, in the washing machine in the 13th aspect, the first liquid agent tank has a first bottom portion inclined downward in the first direction and a second bottom portion connected to the lower end of the first bottom portion.

[0211] As a washing machine in a 15th aspect, in the washing machine in the 13th or 14th aspect, the first liquid tank has self-supporting legs that are positioned in a direction that increases the depth relative to the center position of the first direction of the first liquid tank.

[0212] Although the present disclosure has been fully described in connection with the preferred embodiments with reference to the accompanying drawings, various changes and modifications will be apparent to those skilled in the art, and such changes and modifications are to be understood as included within the scope of the present invention as defined by the appended claims unless they depart therefrom. [Industrial Applicability]

[0213] The washing machine of the present disclosure, when equipped with an automatic liquid agent dispensing function, can employ a large-capacity liquid agent tank, and is therefore useful as a home washing machine, a commercial washing machine, or any type of washer-dryer. [Explanation of symbols]

[0214] 1 washing machine 2. Case 3 Outer tank 4 Washing machine 6 Fluid supply unit 61A Fluid Tank 61B Fluid Tank 61C Fluid Tank 62 cases 63A Fluid Pump 63B Liquid Pump 69A Connection 69B Connection 69C Connection 71A Intake section 71B Intake section 82A Legs 82B Legs 82C Legs 85B Legs 91 1st bottom 92 Second bottom 93 Back part 99 filters B1~B3 Slope S1~S5 Support part

Claims

1. A rotatable washing tub; a liquid agent tank for storing the liquid agent; a case that accommodates the liquid agent tank; a liquid agent supplying device that sucks out the liquid agent stored in the liquid agent tank and supplies it to the washing tub, the liquid supply device has a first suction section and a second suction section, at least one of which is connectable to the liquid tank; The washing machine, wherein the liquid agent tank is a first liquid agent tank that faces the first suction section and the second suction section when housed in the case, and is in communication with the first suction section but not in communication with the second suction section.

2. the first liquid agent tank has a first connection portion to which the first suction portion is connected; The washing machine according to claim 1 , wherein the first suction portion and the first connection portion are in communication with each other.

3. The washing machine according to claim 2 , wherein the first liquid agent tank has a first wall surface facing the second suction portion and spaced apart from a tip of the second suction portion.

4. The first wall surface is overlapping with the second suction portion when viewed from above, The washing machine according to claim 3 , wherein the first suction portion and the second suction portion are inclined with respect to the up-down direction when viewed from a direction in which the first suction portion and the second suction portion are aligned.

5. the first liquid agent tank has a second wall surface at a position facing the first suction portion, the second wall surface protruding toward the first suction portion relative to the first wall surface; The washing machine of claim 4 , wherein the second wall defines a recess that accommodates the first connector.

6. The washing machine according to claim 5 , wherein the first liquid agent tank has a filter inclined along the first wall surface at a position covering the recess.

7. the first liquid agent tank has a first connection portion to which the first suction portion is connected and a cylindrical portion into which the second suction portion is inserted, The washing machine according to claim 1 , wherein the cylindrical portion and an internal space of the first liquid agent tank are not in communication with each other.

8. The washing machine according to claim 7, wherein a gap is provided between an outer peripheral surface of the second suction portion and an inner peripheral surface of the cylindrical portion.

9. The washing machine according to claim 7 , wherein a gasket is provided on an outer circumferential surface of the second suction portion so as to be in close contact with an inner circumferential surface of the cylindrical portion.

10. The washing machine according to claim 1 , wherein the liquid agent supplying devices include a first liquid agent supplying device having the first suction portion and a second liquid agent supplying device having the second suction portion.

11. 10. The washing machine according to claim 1, wherein the case is capable of accommodating a second liquid agent tank connected to the first suction portion and a third liquid agent tank connected to the second suction portion, instead of the first liquid agent tank.

12. The washing machine according to claim 1 , wherein the first suction section is disposed at a lower position than the second suction section.

13. The washing machine according to claim 12, wherein the first liquid agent tank has a shape whose depth increases in a first direction from the second suction portion toward the first suction portion.

14. The washing machine according to claim 13, wherein the first solution tank has a first bottom inclined downward in the first direction and a second bottom connected to a lower end of the first bottom.

15. The washing machine according to claim 13, wherein the first solution tank has a self-supporting leg provided at a position offset in a direction in which the depth increases with respect to a center position of the first solution tank in the first direction.

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