Washing machine

Abstract

To provide a washing machine which can prevent extension of drain time and can maintain drainage performance.SOLUTION: A washing machine comprises: an outer tank 2; a drain passage 13 for discharging water in the outer tank 2; a circulation filter 14 for trapping foreign matters in the drain passage 13; and a discharge filter 15 for trapping the foreign matters in the drain passage 13. There is no filter in a pipe portion 13a through which the water flows from the circulation filter 14 to the discharge filter 15. The washing machine comprises: a circulation path 12 returning the water in the outer tank 2 to the outer tank 2; a circulation pump 11 provided in the circulation path 12; and a drain valve 16 provided between the circulation filter 14 and the discharge filter 15. The drain valve 16 is opened when the circulation pump 11 is stopped.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 8

Description

[Technical Field]

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

[0002] In conventional washing machines, water is discharged through a lint filter that collects lint (see Patent Document 1). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2015-58113 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] However, in the washing machine described in Patent Document 1, water is drained through a lint filter, so if a large amount of foreign matter (garbage) accumulates in the lint filter, the draining time may be long.

[0005] An object of the present invention is to provide a washing machine that can prevent an extension of the drain time and maintain drain performance. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] The present invention is characterized in that it comprises a washing tub, a drainage path for draining water from the washing tub, a first foreign matter collection section for collecting foreign matter in the drainage path, and a second foreign matter collection section for collecting foreign matter in the drainage path, and does not have a filter in the section where water flows from the first foreign matter collection section to the second foreign matter collection section. [Effects of the Invention]

[0007] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a washing machine that can prevent the drainage time from being extended and maintain drainage performance. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1] 1 is an overall configuration diagram of a washing machine according to an embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 2] 1 is a diagram illustrating a main configuration of a washing machine according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 3] 10A and 10B are diagrams illustrating the flow of washing water during circulation and drainage. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing a foreign matter collecting device. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view taken along line VV in FIG. [Figure 6A] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing the flow of water when the circulation pump is operating. [Figure 6B] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing the flow of water when the circulation pump is stopped. [Figure 7A] FIG. 10 is a schematic view showing a modified example of the drainage filter. [Figure 7B] FIG. 2 is a bottom view of the drain filter. [Figure 7C] FIG. 10 is a view showing a holder for setting a drainage filter. [Figure 7D] FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating the flow of washing water. [Figure 8] 10A and 10B are diagrams illustrating the flow of wash water during circulation and drainage in a washing machine according to another embodiment. [Figure 9] 9 is an explanatory diagram of the operation of the washing machine shown in FIG. 8. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a foreign matter collecting device according to another embodiment. [Figure 11] FIG. [Figure 12] FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of the inside of a housing case that houses a circulation filter. [Figure 13] FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of the inside of a housing portion that houses a drainage filter. [Figure 14] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view taken along the tip of the piston of the volume reducing means. [Figure 15] 4 is a flowchart showing the operation of the washing machine of the present embodiment. [Figure 16] FIG. 10 is a configuration diagram of a main part of a washing machine according to another embodiment. [Figure 17]FIG. 10 is a diagram showing the main configuration of a washing machine according to yet another embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0009] Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. However, the present invention is not limited to the following embodiment, and various modifications and application examples within the technical concept of the present invention are also included within its scope. FIG. 1 is a diagram showing the overall configuration of a washing machine according to this embodiment. As shown in Fig. 1, washing machine 100A is a drum-type washer / dryer and includes a housing 1, an outer tub 2 (washing tub), and a drum 3 (inner tub). A door 9 that is opened and closed when putting laundry in and taking laundry out is provided on the front of housing 1. Note that, although the present embodiment will be described taking a washing machine with a washing / drying function as an example, the present invention is also applicable to washing machines without a drying function.

[0010] The outer tub 2 is capable of storing washing water (liquid) therein, is formed in a cylindrical shape with a bottom, and is supported by a plurality of dampers.

[0011] The drum 3 is rotatably supported inside the outer tub 2. The drum 3 is cylindrical with a bottom and positioned with an opening at the front. The drum 3 has multiple lifters 3a for lifting the laundry and numerous through-holes (not shown) for centrifugal spin-drying and ventilation. A fluid balancer (not shown) is provided on the outer periphery of the opening of the drum 3 to reduce vibrations caused by imbalance of the laundry during spin-drying. The drum 3 is directly connected to a driving motor (not shown). The rotation axis of the drum 3 is inclined so that the front side is higher than the rear side. The rotation axis of the drum 3 may also be configured to be approximately horizontal.

[0012] An air duct 20 is provided within the housing 1 to guide airflow to the laundry in the drum 3. A blower 30 and a heat pump unit 40 are provided in the air duct 20. The blower 30 is located downstream of the heat pump unit 40. The air duct 20 also includes an intake duct 21 that connects the back of the outer tub 2 to the heat pump unit 40, and an exhaust duct 22 that connects the outer tub 2 to the blower 30. A primary filter 6 and a secondary filter 7 for drying are provided between the outer tub 2 and the intake duct 21.

[0013] During drying operation, heat pump unit 40 dehumidifies and heats the high-temperature, high-humidity air that has passed through the laundry and been discharged from outer tub 2, to make it high-temperature, low-humidity, and the dehumidified and heated warm air (drying air) is passed through discharge duct 22 by blower 30 and blown onto the laundry in drum 3 from drying outlet 25 provided at the top of outer tub 2. The warm air blown onto the laundry becomes high-temperature, high-humidity air, passes through primary filter 6 and secondary filter 7 to collect lint, and then returns to heat pump unit 40 via suction duct 21.

[0014] A water supply unit 70 is provided at the top of the housing 1. This water supply unit 70 includes a solenoid valve (not shown) that opens when water is supplied to the powder detergent dispenser chamber and liquid detergent dispenser chamber of the detergent case, a solenoid valve (not shown) that opens when water is supplied to the fabric softener dispenser chamber, and a solenoid valve (not shown) that opens when water is supplied directly to the water supply port (not shown) of the outer tub 2.

[0015] A recess 2a is provided in the inner bottom of the outer tub 2 directly below the vertical axis. This recess 2a is generally concave and extends in the axial direction of the drum 3. A drain outlet 2c is provided in the bottom surface 2b of the recess 2a. A circulation pump 11 is also provided below the outer tub 2 within the housing 1. This circulation pump 11 has the function of sucking wash water from the outer tub 2 through the drain outlet 2c via pipe 12a, pumping it up to the top of the outer tub 2 through pipes 12b and 12c, and spraying it onto the laundry in the drum 3. Pipe 12c extends upward to the top of the outer tub 2.

[0016] The washing machine 100A also has a control device 90 (controller) on top of the housing 1. The control device 90 is configured to include electronic circuits such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a ROM (Read Only Memory), a RAM (Random Access Memory), and various interfaces. The CPU reads out programs stored in the ROM and loads them into the RAM, causing the CPU to execute various processes. The control device 90 also controls the opening and closing of various electromagnetic valves of the water supply unit 70, the ON / OFF of the blower 30, the ON / OFF of the circulation pump 11 (described later), and the opening and closing of the drain valve 16.

[0017] FIG. 2 is a configuration diagram of the main part of the washing machine of this embodiment. As shown in FIG. 2, the washing machine 100A includes a circulation path 12 that returns water (washing water) in the outer tub 2 into the outer tub 2, a drainage path 13 that drains the water in the outer tub 2, a circulation filter 14 (first foreign matter collection unit) that collects foreign matter (lint, etc.) in the circulation path 12 and the drainage path 13, a drainage filter 15 (second foreign matter collection unit) that collects foreign matter (lint, etc.) in the drainage path 13, and a drainage valve 16 provided in the drainage path 13.

[0018] The circulation path 12 includes a pipe section 12a connecting the drain outlet 2c of the outer tub 2 and the washing water inlet 14a of the circulation filter 14, a pipe section 12b connecting the circulation side outlet 14b through which the washing water filtered by the circulation filter 14 flows out and the inlet 11a of the circulation pump 11, and a pipe section 12c connecting the outlet 11b of the circulation pump 11 and the discharge outlet 2s of the outer tub 2.

[0019] Drain path 13 includes pipe section 13a connecting drain outlet 14c, through which washing water from circulation filter 14 is discharged, to inlet 15a, through which drainage water from drain filter 15 is introduced, and pipe section 13b connecting outlet 15b, through which washing water filtered by drain filter 15 is discharged, to the outside (outside the machine). Pipe section 12a is configured as a common flow path for circulation path 12 and drain path 13.

[0020] The circulation filter 14 includes a filter section 14f that captures foreign matter such as lint. The wash water containing foreign matter that flows from the outer tub 2 into the circulation filter 14 is captured by the filter section 14f, and the captured wash water passes through the circulation pump 11 and returns to the outer tub 2.

[0021] Drain filter 15 includes filter portion 15f that collects foreign matter such as lint. When drain valve 16 opens during drainage, foreign matter (such as lint) collected in filter portion 14f of circulation filter 14 moves to drain filter 15 along with the drained water. Wash water filtered by drain filter 15 is discharged outside the machine through pipe portion 13b.

[0022] Drain valve 16 is provided in pipe section 13a between circulation filter 14 and drain filter 15. Drain valve 16 is, for example, an open / close solenoid valve, and when opened, foreign matter trapped in circulation filter 14 is transferred to drain filter 15. During washing, drain valve 16 is closed, and foreign matter remains trapped in circulation filter 14.

[0023] FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating the flow of wash water during circulation and drainage. As shown in FIG. 3 , during the wash and rinse cycles, drain valve 16 is closed, as indicated by the solid arrows, and wash water in outer tub 2 circulates through circulation path 12. That is, during circulation, circulation pump 11 is driven, and wash water flowing out of outer tub 2 passes through circulation filter 14, where lint and other foreign matter are captured by filter portion 14f of circulation filter 14. The wash water filtered by filter portion 14f is pressurized by circulation pump 11, moves up pipe portion 12c, and is discharged into drum 3 through outlet 2s located at the top of outer tub 2. As the wash water circulates in outer tub 2 in this manner, lint and other foreign matter accumulate in filter portion 14f of circulation filter 14. When the wash and rinse cycles are completed, circulation pump 11 is stopped, and the system transitions to the drain cycle. Note that stopping circulation pump 11 causes the water remaining in pipe portion 12c to flow backward by gravity, passing through circulation filter 14 and returning to the bottom of outer tub 2. This flow peels off foreign matter (lint) that has been trapped in circulation filter 14. During the drain stroke, as shown by the dashed arrow, drain valve 16 opens and the wash water in outer tub 2 is drained through drain path 13. At this time, the foreign matter that has been trapped in filter portion 14f of circulation filter 14 has been peeled off the surface of filter portion 14f, so it flows through pipe portion 13a of drain path 13 to filter portion 15f of drain filter 15. In other words, during drainage, the foreign matter that has been trapped in circulation filter 14 is transferred to filter portion 15f of drain filter 15. Then, the wash water filtered by drain filter 15 is discharged to the outside of the machine through pipe portion 13b of drain path 13.

[0024] Washing machine 100A configured in this manner includes outer tub 2, circulation path 12 that returns wash water (water) in outer tub 2 into outer tub 2, drain path 13 that drains water from outer tub 2, circulation filter 14 that collects foreign matter in circulation path 12 and drain path 13, and drain filter 15 that collects foreign matter in drain path 13, and transfers the foreign matter in circulation filter 14 to drain filter 15. This allows foreign matter in circulation filter 14 on circulation path 12 to be transferred to drain filter 15, making it possible to easily keep the water circulating through circulation path 12 clean while reducing the frequency of user maintenance.

[0025] FIG. 4 is a perspective view showing the foreign matter collecting device, and FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view taken along line VV in FIG. As shown in FIG. 4, foreign matter collection device 50A (foreign matter collection unit) is an integral configuration of circulation filter 14A (first foreign matter collection unit) and drain filter 15A (second foreign matter collection unit). Foreign matter collection device 50A also includes a cylindrical housing case (housing unit) 51 that houses circulation filter 14A and drain filter 15A, and a piston 52 that moves axially within housing case 51. Housing case 51 also includes an inlet 51a through which wash water from outer tub 2 is introduced, a pump connection 51b to which circulation pump 11 is connected, and a drain 51c (see FIG. 5) through which water is drained outside the machine. Inlet 51a is provided at the top of housing case 51. Pump connection 51b is provided on the side (periphery) of housing case 51. Drain 51c is provided at the bottom of housing case 51, facing inlet 51a.

[0026] Piston 52 is formed in a cylindrical shape and has a diameter smaller than the inner diameter of accommodating case 51. Piston 52 is configured to be able to move in the axial direction within accommodating case 51. Piston 52 is adapted to move in the axial direction by the driving force of an electric motor (not shown). Although not shown, a water seal is provided to prevent wash water introduced into accommodating case 51 from leaking out through a gap between piston 52 and accommodating case 51.

[0027] Also housed within storage case 51 are circulation filter 14A and drain filter 15A. Circulation filter 14A and drain filter 15A are detachable from storage case 51. That is, circulation filter 14A and drain filter 15A are fixed to the back of handle 53. By rotating handle 53 in one direction, circulation filter 14A and drain filter 15A can be removed from storage case 51, allowing cleaning (maintenance) of circulation filter 14A and drain filter 15A. By inserting circulation filter 14A and drain filter 15A into storage case 51 and rotating handle 53 in the other direction, circulation filter 14A and drain filter 15A are fixed within storage case 51. Note that handle 53 is provided with a gasket (not shown) to prevent wash water from leaking from storage case 51.

[0028] As shown in FIG. 5, piston 52 is located in the center of housing case 51, with circulation filter 14A and drainage filter 15A disposed outside of piston 52. Circulation filter 14A and drainage filter 15A are configured as a single component and are J-shaped in cross section. Circulation filter 14A is formed in a flat plate shape and is located above piston 52, not in contact with it. Drainage filter 15A is formed in a semicircular arc shape and is disposed along the outer circumferential surface of piston 52. Circulation filter 14A and drainage filter 15A may be made of resin and may be lattice-shaped or mesh-shaped. Circulation filter 14A and drainage filter 15A may be the same type or different types.

[0029] FIG. 6A is a diagram showing the flow of water when the circulation pump is operating, and FIG. 6B is a diagram showing the flow of water when the circulation pump is stopped. As shown in FIG. 6A, when the wash water in outer tub 2 circulates, drain valve 16 is closed and circulation pump 11 is operating. Furthermore, piston 52 moves toward handle 53 within housing case 51, so that the filter surface of drain filter 15A is covered by piston 52. In this state, when wash water from outer tub 2 is introduced into housing case 51 through introduction portion 51a, the wash water flows along the outer peripheral surface of piston 52 and toward circulation filter 14A. As the wash water passes through circulation filter 14A, lint 60 is collected in circulation filter 14A. The wash water filtered by circulation filter 14A is pressurized through circulation pump 11 and returned to outer tub 2.

[0030] As shown in FIG. 6B , when the wash water in the outer tub 2 is discharged outside the machine, the circulation pump 11 is stopped with the drain valve 16 closed. This causes the flow of wash water to reverse due to gravity, flowing from the circulation pump 11 toward the circulation filter 14A. This flow causes lint 60 trapped in the circulation filter 14A to separate from the circulation filter 14A and float in the water. In this state, the piston 52 is pulled back, i.e., the piston 52 retracts from the drain filter 15A, exposing the drain filter 15A. Then, by opening the drain valve 16, the lint 60 floating in the water is collected by the drain filter 15A along with the flow of drain water toward the filter surface of the drain filter 15A. In other words, the lint 60 from the circulation filter 14A is transferred to the drain filter 15A. Then, when drainage is complete, piston 52 is pushed out, pressing lint 60 against the back of handle 53, thereby compacting lint 60 (dehydrating and compressing it). Even if the wash water is circulated again after that, it becomes difficult for the water to pass through the old lint that has been compacted by piston 52, so the water will flow toward circulation pump 11, which is the direction in which water flows most easily.

[0031] In conventional lint filters, the lint is wet but not compacted and is placed on the filter surface, so the next time the wash water is circulated, the water passes through the lint as it circulates. However, in this embodiment, the lint is compacted to the point where it does not absorb water, and the filter surface of drain filter 15A is covered by piston 52. This prevents water from passing through the compacted lint, making it possible to wash with clean water that does not pass through the lint while reducing the frequency of user maintenance.

[0032] Washing machine 100A configured as described above includes circulation pump 11 provided in circulation path 12, and transfer of foreign matter from circulation filter 14A to drain filter 15A is performed when circulation pump 11 is stopped. However, when circulation pump 11 is operating, lint cannot be flushed away using natural drainage, and lint transfer is not performed smoothly. Therefore, in this embodiment, by stopping circulation pump 11, a reverse flow can be generated from circulation pump 11 toward circulation filter 14A. This allows lint 60 to float from circulation filter 14A, making it easier to transfer lint 60 from circulation filter 14A to drain filter 15A.

[0033] Furthermore, washing machine 100A may intermittently stop circulation pump 11 during the washing or rinsing cycle to perform the above-described transfer multiple times. This makes it easier to remove lint from circulation filter 14A and transfer the lint from circulation filter 14A to drain filter 15A.

[0034] Furthermore, washing machine 100A is provided with drain valve 16 between circulation filter 14A and drain filter 15A. This physically prevents lint transferred to drain filter 15 from returning to circulation path 12 (circulation filter 14 side).

[0035] Figure 7A is a schematic diagram showing a modified example of the drain filter, Figure 7B is a diagram of the drain filter viewed from the bottom, Figure 7C is a diagram showing the holder for setting the drain filter, and Figure 7D is a diagram explaining the flow of washing water. 7A, drain filter 80 is a paper pack type filter that includes bag 81 with opening 81a formed at the top to introduce foreign matter (lint), and plate 82 for holding bag 81 in holder 83 (see FIG. 7C). Bag 81 is made of a material that can hold foreign matter such as lint and that allows washing water as a fluid to pass through.

[0036] Furthermore, a plurality of ribs 84 are fixed to a casing 85 (accommodating section) that accommodates the drainage filter 80. The ribs 84 have recesses 84a formed in a concave shape, and the bag body 81 is arranged inside the recesses 84a.

[0037] 7B, the plurality of ribs 84 are arranged at intervals within the casing 85. This allows passages through which the wash water flows to be formed between the ribs 84.

[0038] 7C, holder 83 includes frame 83a that holds drain filter 80, and handle 83b that is operated when attaching or detaching drain filter 80 to or from washing machine 100A. Plate 82 of drain filter 80 is attached to frame 83a.

[0039] FIG. 7D shows a state in which drain filter 80 is housed in casing 85. Wash water introduced from inlet 15a formed in the upper part of casing 85 flows into bag 81 of drain filter 80, where lint is collected. The wash water that flows into bag 81 passes through bag 81 and is discharged to the outside (outside the machine) from outlet 15b. If bag 81 becomes clogged, preventing the wash water from flowing through bag 81 and causing overflow, the water will pass through the flow path between ribs 84 and be discharged to the outside from outlet 15b. Thus, providing ribs 84 prevents bag 81 from expanding and bringing bag 81 into close contact with inner wall surface 85a of casing 85, thereby preventing the flow path to outlet 15b from being blocked.

[0040] In the above embodiment, a paper pack type filter is used as the drain filter, but it may be used as the circulation filter 14, which is the first foreign matter collection unit. Also, paper pack type filters may be used as both the circulation filter 14 and the drain filter 15. In this way, by using a paper pack type filter, the user does not have to touch foreign matter such as lint with their hands, which is hygienic.

[0041] 8 is a diagram illustrating the flow of wash water during circulation and drainage in a washing machine according to another embodiment. Note that the same components as those in the embodiment shown in FIG. 2 are designated by the same reference numerals, and redundant explanations will be omitted. As shown in Fig. 8, washing machine 100B is configured by adding second drainage path 17 to washing machine 100A. Second drainage path 17 includes pipe section 17a that connects outlet 14d of circulation filter 14 to pipe section 13b. Second drainage path 17 also includes drainage valve 18 in pipe section 17a. Drainage valve 18 is controlled to open and close by control device 90.

[0042] Furthermore, washing machine 100B does not have a filter for collecting lint (foreign matter) in pipe section 13a from circulation filter 14 to drain filter 15 (the section where water flows from the first foreign matter collecting section to the second foreign matter collecting section).

[0043] Furthermore, the volume V2 of the drain filter 15 (the volume of the second foreign matter collection section) is larger than the volume V1 of the circulation filter 14 (the volume of the first foreign matter collection section). Volume V1 is the size of the space capable of collecting foreign matter such as lint in the circulation filter 14. Volume V2 is the size of the space capable of collecting foreign matter such as lint in the drain filter 15.

[0044] It should be noted that the lint compressing mechanism (volume reducing means) shown in FIGS. 4 and 5 may be applied to the embodiment shown in FIG.

[0045] Fig. 9 is an explanatory diagram of the operation of the washing machine shown in Fig. 8. Note that Fig. 9 shows the process from washing and rinsing to the next washing and rinsing. As shown in the process diagram on the left side of Figure 9, during the wash and rinse cycles, both drain valve 16 and drain valve 18 are closed and circulation pump 11 is driven. That is, as shown by the solid arrows, wash water discharged from outer tub 2 passes through circulation filter 14, and lint 60 (foreign matter) is collected by filter portion 14f of circulation filter 14. The wash water filtered by filter portion 14f is then pressurized by circulation pump 11 and returned to outer tub 2.

[0046] As shown in the second process diagram from the left in FIG. 9 , when the wash water in the outer tub 2 is to be drained, the circulation pump 11 is stopped and the drain valve 16 is opened. As a result, as indicated by the solid arrows, the wash water in the outer tub 2 is drained through the drain path 13, and lint 60 (foreign matter) adhering to the circulation filter 14 is peeled off from the filter portion 14f of the circulation filter 14 and transferred through the drain path 13 to the filter portion 15f of the drain filter 15. By transferring the lint in this manner, the circulation filter 14 is cleared of lint. The wash water filtered by the drain filter 15 is then discharged outside the machine through the drain path 13 (pipe portion 13b). The amount of drainage flowing through the drain path 13 is the amount sufficient to transfer the lint 60 from the circulation filter 14 to the drain filter 15. The amount of drainage can be set, for example, by the elapsed time since the drain valve 16 was opened.

[0047] As shown in the third process diagram from the left in Figure 9, drain valve 18 of second drain path 17 is further opened, and all remaining wash water in outer tub 2 is drained through second drain path 17. That is, as shown by the solid arrow, the wash water in outer tub 2 passes through circulation filter 14 and second drain path 17, flows into drain path 13 (pipe portion 13b) downstream of drain filter 15, and is discharged outside the machine. At this time, since there is no lint 60 in circulation filter 14, even if water is drained through second drain path 17, poor drainage, such as an inability to drain water outside the machine, can be prevented.

[0048] As shown in the process diagram on the right side of Figure 9, the process moves to the next wash and rinse process, and the wash water in the outer tub 2 is circulated through the circulation path 12. In this way, the washing can start with the circulation filter 14 refreshed. In other words, it is possible to wash with clean circulating water that does not pass through old lint 60, while reducing the frequency of user maintenance.

[0049] In this manner, in this embodiment, by transferring the lint from the circulation filter 14 to the drain filter 15, it is possible to ensure that no lint 60 remains on the circulation filter 14, and therefore drainage performance can be ensured by draining the water through the second drain path 17. Furthermore, the lint from the circulation filter 14 can continue to accumulate in the drain filter 15, reducing the frequency of cleaning.

[0050] The circulation filter 14 only needs to have a volume large enough to collect lint from one wash. The drain filter 15 preferably has a volume large enough to collect lint for a long period of time. By increasing the volume of the drain filter 15, the user can reduce the frequency of cleaning, improving usability.

[0051] As explained in the operation of the drain stroke in Figure 9, the second stroke diagram in Figure 9 and the third stroke diagram in Figure 9 may be repeated, i.e., the circulation pump 11 may be stopped intermittently and the drain valve 18 may be opened to transfer the lint from the circulation filter 14 to the drain filter 15 multiple times. This increases the effectiveness of removing lint from the circulation filter 14 and ensures that the lint is transferred from the circulation filter 14 to the drain filter 15.

[0052] Washing machine 100B configured in this manner includes outer tub 2, drainage path 13 that drains wash water (water) from outer tub 2, circulation filter 14 (first foreign matter collection unit) that collects lint 60 (foreign matter) in drainage path 13, and drainage filter 15 (second foreign matter collection unit) that collects lint 60 in drainage path 13, and is configured so as not to have a filter in pipe section 13a (section) where water flows from circulation filter 14 to drainage filter 15. This allows lint 60 to be transferred from circulation filter 14 to drainage filter 15, making it possible to maintain drainage performance.

[0053] Washing machine 100B also includes circulation path 12 that returns wash water (water) in outer tub 2 to outer tub 2, circulation pump 11 provided in circulation path 12, and drain valve 16 provided between circulation filter 14 (first foreign matter collection unit) and drain filter 15 (second foreign matter collection unit), and drain valve 16 opens when circulation pump 11 is stopped (see FIG. 9). When circulation pump 11 is operating, lint adheres to circulation filter 14, so stopping circulation pump 11 frees lint 60, making it easier for water containing lint to flow to drain filter 15.

[0054] In addition, in washing machine 100B, volume V2 of drain filter 15 is larger than volume V1 of circulation filter 14 (see FIG. 8). Lint can be stored in drain filter 15 for a long period of time, reducing the frequency of cleaning. Drain filter 15 is configured to be removable from washing machine 100B (main body).

[0055] Figure 10 is an oblique view of another embodiment of a foreign matter collection device, Figure 11 is an oblique view showing the volume reduction means, Figure 12 is a cross-sectional view of the inside of the storage case that houses the circulation filter, Figure 13 is a cross-sectional view of the inside of the storage section that houses the drainage filter, and Figure 14 is a cross-sectional view taken at the tip of the piston of the volume reduction means. 10, foreign matter collection device 50B includes drain filter 15B (see FIG. 13), a storage section 51B that stores drain filter 15B, and volume reduction means 54 that reduces the volume inside storage section 51B. Unlike foreign matter collection device 50A described above, foreign matter collection device 50B is configured such that storage case 51A that stores circulation filter 14B (first foreign matter collection section) and storage section 51B that stores drain filter 15B (second foreign matter collection section) are separately arranged.

[0056] Storage case 51A is disposed above storage section 51B and has a rectangular box shape. The shape of storage case 51A is not limited to a rectangular box shape and may be, for example, cylindrical. Storage case 51A is also formed with inlet section 51a through which wash water is introduced from outer tub 2. Circulation filter 14B may be made of resin or a mesh. Storage case 51A is also formed with pump connection section 51b downstream of circulation filter 14B to which circulation pump 11 is connected. Circulation pump 11 is also formed with outlet section 51d that returns wash water drawn in from pump connection section 51b to outer tub 2.

[0057] Furthermore, upstream of circulation filter 14B, housing case 51A is provided with drain valve 16 that opens and closes a flow path leading to housing section 51B. When drain valve 16 is opened, wash water introduced from outer tub 2 into housing case 51A flows into housing section 51B.

[0058] A cover 51s made of transparent resin is formed on the top of the container case 51A, which allows the state of the circulation filter 14B to be checked from the outside during maintenance of the foreign matter trapping device 50B.

[0059] The storage section 51B is formed in a substantially cylindrical shape, and has a circular opening 51e formed at the axial front end through which the drain filter 15B is inserted and removed. The drain filter 15B is provided with a handle 53 that is gripped by hand to attach and detach the filter. The storage section 51B is also provided with a volume reduction means 54 at its axial rear end. A drain section 51c is formed at the bottom of the storage section 51B to drain the wash water outside the machine.

[0060] 11, the volume reduction means 54 includes an expandable member 54a made of an elastic material such as rubber, a cap 54d that houses a piston 54b (see FIG. 13) that expands and contracts the expandable member 54a, and an electric motor 54c that drives the piston 54b. The cap 54d has a circular lid portion 54d1 that is attached to the rear end of the housing portion 51B. The cap 54d also has a cylindrical portion 54d2 that extends rearward from the lid portion 54d1 and houses the piston 54b.

[0061] As shown in FIG. 12, circulation filter 14B is inclined downward toward the inlet of drain filter 15A. The inlet is opening 51f on the side of the lower portion of accommodating case 51A. Opening 51f is provided with drain valve 16, and when drain valve 16 is opened, the wash water in accommodating case 51A flows into accommodating section 51B. In other words, circulation filter 14B is inclined downward from top to bottom toward opening 51f (inlet). This allows lint to easily flow over the surface of circulation filter 14B. As a result, water containing lint can easily flow toward drain filter 15, facilitating the transfer of lint from circulation filter 14B to drain filter 15.

[0062] 13, the expandable member 54a is a generally cylindrical member formed in a bellows shape and is configured to be expandable and contractible in the axial direction of the storage section 51B. A circular, flat pressing surface 54a1 is formed at the front end of the expandable member 54a and faces the back surface 53a of the handle 53. In other words, the pressing surface 54a1 is configured to move in a direction toward and away from the back surface 53a.

[0063] A drain filter 15B is provided in the storage section 51B. This drain filter 15B is approximately semi-cylindrical and is disposed with its concave surface facing upward. The drain filter 15B has a plurality of small circular holes 15g formed on the entire surface and is fixed to the rear surface (back surface) 53a of the handle 53. The drain filter 15B is formed to extend rearward from the back surface 53a to a position rearward beyond the drain section 51c.

[0064] The drain filter 15B is not limited to a shape that is generally semi-cylindrical as a whole, and the outlet side (handle 53 side) of the drain filter 15B may be cylindrical. In this case, the cylindrical portion is formed up to a point where it is not exposed to drainage water from the circulation filter 14B side (storage case 51A side). For example, the area surrounded by the dashed line in FIG. 13 can be cylindrical. By making a portion of the filter cylindrical in this way, it is possible to more reliably capture lint that has flowed into the storage section 51B than if the entire filter were generally semi-cylindrical.

[0065] One axial end of the piston 54b is fixed to the rear side of the pressing surface 54a1 inside the expandable member 54a. The other end of the piston 54b is connected to the kinetic force converter 54e inside the cylindrical portion 54d2. An electric motor 54c is attached to the rear end of the cylindrical portion 54d2.

[0066] The volume reduction means 54 also includes a kinetic force converter 54e that converts the rotational motion (rotational force) of the electric motor 54c into the linear motion of the piston 54b. The kinetic force converter 54e has a male thread 54e1, which is a helical thread formed on the outer peripheral surface of a cylindrical member. Meanwhile, the piston 54b has a female thread 54b1 that meshes with the male thread 54e1. When the male thread 54e1 rotates in one direction due to the rotational force of the electric motor 54c, the piston 54b moves linearly forward (in the direction pushing the piston 54b). When the male thread 54e1 rotates in the other direction, the piston 54b moves linearly backward (in the direction pulling the piston 54b). The front end of the piston 54b is fixed to the inner surface of the pressing surface 54a1 of the telescopic member 54a, so that the telescopic member 54a moves forward and backward in conjunction with the forward and backward movement of the piston 54b.

[0067] Drain filter 15B is disposed below circulation filter 14A, so that the washing water can flow from circulation filter 14A toward drain filter 15B by the action of gravity.

[0068] 14, the expandable member 54a is circular and has approximately the same curvature as the drainage filter 15B. In other words, the drainage filter 15B has a shape that follows the expandable member 54a. As a result, the expandable member 54a is in contact with the drainage filter 15B at an arc, and moves while sliding against the drainage filter 15B.

[0069] Next, the lint collection operation of the washing machine will be described with reference to Fig. 15. Fig. 15 is a flowchart showing the operation of the washing machine of this embodiment. Note that only the operation during the wash or rinse operation will be described below. As shown in FIG. 15, in step S11, the control device 90 executes a washing or rinsing process. In this process, the circulation pump 11 is driven (ON) and the wash water in the outer tub 2 is circulated with the drain valve 16 closed. That is, by driving the circulation pump 11, the wash water is sucked in through the drain port 2c (see FIG. 1) at the bottom of the outer tub 2 and introduced into the housing case 51A through the inlet 51a. The wash water then passes through the circulation filter 14B, which collects lint (foreign matter). The filtered wash water from which the lint has been collected is sucked in by the circulation pump 11, discharged from the outlet 51d, moves up the pipe 12c (see FIG. 1), and is discharged into the drum 3 through the outlet 2s. The wash water discharged into the drum 3 collects at the bottom of the outer tub 2 through numerous through-holes (not shown) formed in the drum 3 for centrifugal dehydration and ventilation. As the washing water circulates through the outer tub 2 in this manner, lint (foreign matter) accumulates in the circulation filter 14B.

[0070] Then, in step S12, the control device 90 determines whether the washing step or the rinsing step has ended. If the washing step or the rinsing step has not ended (No), the process returns to step S11. If the washing step or the rinsing step has ended (Yes), the process proceeds to step S13.

[0071] Then, in step S13, control device 90 transfers the lint. That is, by stopping circulation pump 11, the wash water in pipe portion 12c (see FIG. 1) flows backward by gravity, and the lint (foreign matter) captured in circulation filter 14B is dislodged and floats in the water in storage case 51A. After that, or simultaneously with stopping circulation pump 11, drain valve 16 is opened, and the wash water containing the lint flows into storage portion 51B through opening 51f.

[0072] When telescopic member 54a is in its initial position, piston 54b is pulled to the maximum extent, and telescopic member 54a is in its maximum contracted state. In other words, drain filter 15B is exposed. In this state, wash water from accommodating case 51A flows into accommodating portion 51B from above drain filter 15B, transferring lint (foreign matter) to drain filter 15B. Furthermore, wash water that has passed through drain filter 15B passes through drain portion 51c and is discharged outside the machine (outside the washing machine).

[0073] Then, in step S14, the control device 90 compresses the lint. That is, when the discharge of the wash water is completed, the piston 54b is operated in the pushing direction (the direction in which the expandable member 54a extends). At this time, the expandable member 54a slides along the surface of the drain filter 15B. As a result, the lint (foreign matter) collected in the drain filter 15B is scraped off and moved toward the back surface 53a. The piston 54b is then pushed out to a position where the pressing surface 54a1 of the expandable member 54a contacts the back surface 53a, pressing the lint (foreign matter) against the back surface 53a. As a result, the lint containing water is compressed and dehydrated, and becomes solidified on the back surface 53a. After the lint has solidified, the piston 54b is moved to the position where the expandable member 54a is most contracted. As a result, the lint (foreign matter) becomes solidified on the back surface 53a, which is one side of the drain filter 15B. By compressing the lint in this manner, the volume of the lint can be reduced, allowing the lint to be stored in the drain filter 15B for a long period of time (foreign matter can be stored for a long period of time). The storage period can be extended depending on the degree of volume reduction. After compressing the lint, the drain valve 16 is closed (step S15).

[0074] In this way, the transfer of the lint to the drain filter 15B and the compression of the lint are repeated, so that the compressed lint accumulates on the back surface 53a of the drain filter 15B.

[0075] However, if lint accumulates in the storage section 51B beyond the area enclosed by the dashed square line, the lint will clog the drain section 51c, preventing proper drainage. Therefore, in this embodiment, when lint accumulates up to the area enclosed by the dashed line, the user is notified that the drain filter 15B is full. The notification is given when the most extended position of the expandable member 54a falls below a predetermined level. Whether or not the position falls below the predetermined level can be determined by detecting the position of the kinetic force converter 54e.

[0076] Another way to notify the user is when the load on the motor 54c exceeds a certain level. Yet another way to notify the user is when the motor 54c has been driven for a certain period of time. This is because even if the motor 54c is driven to compress the lint, the torque (current) becomes insufficient, causing the piston 54b to remain in place.

[0077] The washing machine configured in this manner includes outer tub 2, drain filter 15B (foreign matter collection unit) that collects lint (foreign matter) discharged from outer tub 2, storage unit 51B that houses drain filter 15B, and volume reduction means 54 that reduces the volume within storage unit 51B. Volume reduction means 54 includes elastic member 54a at one end within storage unit 51B. Elastic member 54a expands to reduce the volume. This allows the lint collected in drain filter 15B to be compressed, allowing lint to be stored in drain filter 15B for a long period of time and reducing the frequency of cleaning.

[0078] The washing machine also includes drainage path 13 for draining water from outer tub 2, drainage valve 16 provided in drainage path 13, and control device 90 for controlling drainage valve 16 and volume reduction means 54. Control device 90 controls expandable member 54a of volume reduction means 54 to contract when drainage valve 16 is opened. In this way, when drainage valve 16 is opened, wastewater and lint flow from the side of housing case 51A that houses circulation filter 14B, and it is possible to prevent this flow from being obstructed.

[0079] Furthermore, in the washing machine, when drain valve 16 is closed, control device 90 drives volume reduction means 54 to reduce the volume inside storage section 51B. According to this, when drain valve 16 is closed, lint has accumulated in drain filter 15B, so that piston 54b is pushed out (expanding member 54a) and the volume of storage section 51B can be reduced.

[0080] Furthermore, the washing machine notifies the user that the capacity is full when the most extended position of the expandable member 54a falls below a predetermined level, when the current value of the electric motor 54c that drives the expandable member 54a rises above a predetermined level, or when the driving time of the electric motor 54c that drives the expandable member 54a has exceeded a predetermined level. This can prompt the user to clean the drain filter 15B, thereby preventing poor drainage.

[0081] In addition, in the washing machine, volume reduction means 54 includes piston 54b, and drain filter 15B has a shape that follows elastic member 54a. This makes it possible to scrape off lint collected on drain filter 15B.

[0082] Note that this embodiment is not limited to the above-described embodiment, and from a hygienic standpoint, a configuration for washing the piston 54b with water may be added. For example, a nozzle for spraying tap water may be provided in the housing portion 51B so that the pressing surface 54a1 that pushes out lint and the bellows-shaped expandable member 54a that scrapes the filtering surface of the drainage filter 15B to regenerate the filter can be washed with running water.

[0083] From a hygienic standpoint, a configuration for cleaning the circulation filter 14B, the drain filter 15B, or the inside of the housing case 51A and the housing unit 51B may also be provided. For example, a tap water spray nozzle may be provided to spray tap water onto the circulation filter 14B from the side opposite the collection surface of the circulation filter 14B to clean it. This removes lint and dirt adhering to the filter, prevents clogging, and keeps it clean. A cleaning spray nozzle may also be provided to thoroughly clean the surfaces inside the housing unit 51B with running water. This washes away dirt and germs adhering to the surfaces inside the housing unit 51B, suppresses the growth of biofilms, and keeps it clean. A tap water spray nozzle may also be provided to spray tap water onto the collected lint to wash away germs contained in the lint.

[0084] FIG. 16 is a configuration diagram of a main part of a washing machine according to another embodiment. As shown in Fig. 16, washing machine 100C has a configuration in which second drain filter 19 (third foreign matter collection unit) is added to washing machine 100A shown in Fig. 2. Second drain filter 19 is provided in drain path 13 (pipe unit 13b) downstream of both circulation filter 14 and drain filter 15. Second drain filter 19 also collects finer foreign matter than drain filter 15, such as microplastics.

[0085] However, if the drain filter 15 is to be used to capture fine foreign matter such as microplastics, the drain filter 15 must be a fine-mesh filter, which poses the problem of quickly becoming clogged and preventing drainage. When relatively large lint is collected by the drain filter 15, microplastics slip through the drain filter 15. Therefore, in this embodiment, a second drain filter 19 is provided as a third foreign matter collection unit that can capture the microplastics that have slipped through. The second drain filter 19 is, for example, a mesh-like filter with finer mesh (lower aperture ratio, smaller mesh size) than the circulation filter 14 and the drain filter 15.

[0086] Washing machine 100C configured in this manner includes second drain filter 19 downstream of circulation filter 14 and drain filter 15. This makes it possible to capture fine foreign matter such as microplastics without clogging drain filter 15.

[0087] Furthermore, in washing machine 100C, the mesh size (opening rate) of the filter portion of second drain filter 19 is smaller than the mesh size (opening rate) of circulation filter 14 and drain filter 15. This makes it possible to capture microplastics without clogging circulation filter 14 and drain filter 15.

[0088] FIG. 17 is a configuration diagram of a main part of a washing machine according to yet another embodiment. 17, washing machine 100D has a configuration in which second drain filter 19 (third foreign matter collecting unit) is added to washing machine 100B shown in FIG. 8. That is, second drain filter 19 is provided in pipe portion 13b downstream of circulation filter 14 and drain filter 15. Second drain filter 19 is also located downstream of second drain path 17.

[0089] Washing machine 100D configured in this manner can capture fine foreign matter such as microplastics without clogging circulation filter 14 and drain filter 15, similar to washing machine 100C described above. [Explanation of symbols]

[0090] 1 chassis 2 Outer tub (washing tub) 2c drain 3 Drums 11 Circulation pump 11a Inlet 11b Outlet 12 Circulation Route 12a,12b,12c pipe section 13 Drainage route 13a Pipe part (part) 13b Pipe section 14, 14A, 14B Circulation filter (first foreign matter collection section) 14f Filter section 15, 15A Drainage filter (second foreign matter collection part) 15B Drainage filter (second foreign matter collection part, foreign matter collection part) 15a entrance 15b Outlet 15f Filter section 15g small hole 16 Drain valve 17 Second drainage route 18 Drain valve 19 Second drainage filter (third foreign matter collection unit) 50A,50B Foreign matter collection device 51,51A Storage Case 51B Storage section 51a Introduction 51b Pump connection 51c Drainage section 52 Piston 53 Handle 54 Volume reduction means 54a Elastic member 54a1 Pressing surface 54b piston 54b1 female thread 54c electric motor 54d Cap 54d1 Lid 54d2 Cylindrical part 54e Motion force conversion unit 54e1 Male thread 60 Lint (foreign matter) 80 Drainage filter (second foreign matter collection section) 81 Bag body 81a Opening 82 Board part 83 Holder 84 Ribs 84a Recess 100A, 100B, 100C, 100D Washing Machine V1 Volume (Volume of the first foreign matter collection section) V2 Volume (volume of the second foreign matter collection section)

Claims

1. A washing machine and A drainage path for discharging water from the washing tub; a first foreign matter collecting section that collects foreign matter in the drainage path; a second foreign matter collecting section that collects foreign matter in the drainage path, A washing machine characterized in that a filter is not provided in a portion where water flows from the first foreign matter collecting section to the second foreign matter collecting section.

2. The washing machine according to claim 1, a circulation path for returning water in the washing tub to the washing tub; a circulation pump provided in the circulation path; a drain valve provided between the first foreign matter collection section and the second foreign matter collection section, The washing machine is characterized in that the drain valve is opened when the circulation pump is stopped.

3. The washing machine according to claim 1, The washing machine, characterized in that the volume of the second foreign matter collecting section is larger than the volume of the first foreign matter collecting section.

4. The washing machine according to claim 1, The washing machine is characterized in that the second foreign matter collection unit is arranged below the first foreign matter collection unit.

5. The washing machine according to claim 1, A washing machine characterized in that the filter of the first foreign matter collection section is inclined downward toward the inlet of the second foreign matter collection section.

6. The washing machine according to claim 1, The washing machine is characterized in that a third foreign matter collection section is provided downstream of the first foreign matter collection section and the second foreign matter collection section to collect foreign matter in the drainage path.

7. The washing machine according to claim 6, The washing machine, wherein the mesh size of the filter of the third foreign matter collection section is smaller than the mesh sizes of the filters of the first foreign matter collection section and the second foreign matter collection section.

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