Washing machine

Abstract

To provide a washing machine capable of improving washing performance even at the time of a low load.SOLUTION: A washing machine includes: an outer tub 2; a washing and dewatering tub 3 rotatably stored in the outer tub 2; a rotary vane board 4 rotatably supported at an inner bottom part of the washing and dewatering tub 3; a back blade 47 provided on a lower surface of the rotary vane board 4; a drive motor 10 for rotationally driving the rotary vane board 4 and the washing and dewatering tub 3; and a shower case 15 provided on an inner surface of the washing and dewatering tub 3, and for raising washing water at the inner bottom part of the washing and dewatering tub 3 and returning it to the washing and dewatering tub 3, by the back blade 47 rotating. In the shower case 15, a vertical slit 15a1 is formed which is formed extending in the vertical direction, and which returns the washing water that has risen in the shower case 15 to the washing and dewatering tub 3.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

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

[0002] Patent Document 1 describes a washing machine that can discharge washing water from an opening provided at the top for shower washing during the washing process. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2022-87744 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] However, in the washing machine described in Patent Document 1, when the amount of water in the tub is small (the water level is low), the circulating water cannot be pumped up to the opening provided in the circulating water channel, and the wash water cannot be discharged from the opening. Also, when the amount of laundry is large, the detergent concentration in the upper part of the laundry becomes diluted, which may result in a decrease in washing performance.

[0005] The present invention is intended to solve the above-mentioned problems of the conventional washing machine, and has an object to provide a washing machine that can improve washing performance even under low load. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] The present invention comprises an outer tub, a washing and spin-drying tub rotatably accommodated within the outer tub, an agitator supported rotatably on the inner bottom of the washing and spin-drying tub, a blade portion provided on the underside of the agitator, a drive means for rotating the agitator and the washing and spin-drying tub, and a circulation flow path member provided on the inner surface of the washing and spin-drying tub and which, as the blade portion rotates, raises the washing water at the inner bottom of the washing and spin-drying tub and returns it to the washing and spin-drying tub, and is characterized in that the circulation flow path member has a slit formed to extend vertically and return the washing water that has risen up the circulation flow path member into the washing and spin-drying tub. [Effects of the Invention]

[0007] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a washing machine that can improve washing performance even under low load. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1] FIG. 2 is a right-side vertical cross-sectional view showing the washing machine according to the embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a vertical cross-sectional perspective view of a washing and spin-drying tub provided with a rotary blade disc. [Figure 3] FIG. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing the shape of the upper surface side of the rotor blade disc. [Figure 5] FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing the shape of the underside of the rotor blade disc. [Figure 6A] FIG. 2 is a plan view of the bottom plate of the washing and spin-drying tub seen from above. [Figure 6B] FIG. 6B is a cross-sectional view of FIG. 6A. [Figure 7A] FIG. 2 is a front view of the shower case. [Figure 7B] FIG. 7B is an enlarged cross-sectional view taken along line II-II of FIG. 7A. [Figure 7C] FIG. 10 is a rear view of the shower case. [Figure 7D] This is an oblique view of the shower case from the back. [Figure 8A] FIG. [Figure 8B]FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the filter case as seen from the front side. [Figure 8C] FIG. [Figure 8D] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the filter case as seen from the back side. [Figure 9] FIG. 2 is a front view of the lint filter. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view showing a bottom plate of a washing machine according to a modified example of the present embodiment. [Figure 11] FIG. 10 is a rear view of a shower case of a washing machine according to a modified example of the present embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0009] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the following, a vertical washing machine S capable of washing, rinsing, and spin-drying will be described as an example.

[0010] 1 is a right-side vertical cross-sectional view showing a washing machine according to this embodiment. The washing machine S of the present invention is also applicable to a vertical washing machine that can also perform a drying process. The outer shell of the washing machine S is formed by an outer frame 1 of a housing that forms the outer shape. Inside the outer frame 1 of the washing machine S are provided an outer tub 2 that stores wash water, a washing and spin-drying tub 3 (inner tub) in the outer tub 2, a rotating blade plate 4 (agitating blade) that rotates at the bottom of the washing and spin-drying tub 3, and a drive motor 10 (drive means) that rotates the rotating blade plate 4.

[0011] The outer frame 1 is formed into a rectangular parallelepiped shape elongated in the vertical direction by pressing a steel plate into a metal sheet or the like. A synthetic resin base 32 is provided at the bottom of the outer frame 1 as a bottom plate. A synthetic resin top cover 6 is provided above the outer frame 1. An operation panel 6p is provided on the front upper surface of the top cover 6 to enable the user to operate the washing machine S. The operation panel 6p is electrically connected to a control device e provided at the front lower part inside the washing machine S. Although not shown in FIG. 1, the interior of the outer frame 1 is reinforced with reinforcing members made of rust-proof steel plate.

[0012] The outer tub 2 is made of synthetic resin and has a generally cylindrical shape with a bottom. The outer tub 2 is supported in the center of the outer frame 1 via a vibration-isolating device 2b that engages with a locking portion 2k of the outer tub 2.

[0013] Washing and spin-drying tub 3 has a cylindrical shape with a bottom and accommodates laundry (clothes) to be washed and spin-dried. Washing and spin-drying tub 3 is provided in the center of the interior of outer tub 2 and is supported rotatably within outer tub 2. A rotation axis O of washing and spin-drying tub 3 is disposed in a substantially vertical direction.

[0014] The washing and spin-drying tub 3 has a large number of small through-holes 3a in its substantially cylindrical side wall for passing water and spin-drying. Note that Fig. 1 shows only some of the many small through-holes 3a, with the rest omitted. The washing and spin-drying tub 3 also has a plurality of through-holes 3b in its bottom wall for passing wash water and rinsing water. The upper edge of the washing and spin-drying tub 3 is also provided with an annular fluid balancer 3c.

[0015] Drive motor 10 is provided within outer frame 1 and selectively drives rotary blade plate 4 and washing / spin-drying tub 3 via electromagnetic clutch 10c. Drive motor 10 is, for example, a DC brushless motor driven by direct current. The DC brushless motor is controlled by vector control using control device e.

[0016] An outer lid 5 is provided on the top of the outer frame 1 and can be opened and closed when the user puts laundry in or takes laundry out. The rear side of the outer lid 5 is pivotally supported by a top cover 6 provided on the top of the outer frame 1. An inner lid 5u is provided below the outer lid 5 around the rear axis so that it can be opened and closed when putting laundry in or taking laundry out. In this way, laundry is put in or taken out of the washing and spin-drying tub 3 by opening and closing the outer lid 5 and inner lid 5u and through the laundry inlet 6a.

[0017] A water supply unit 7 that supplies wash water and rinse water is provided within the outer frame 1, behind the outer lid 5 of the top cover 6. The water supply unit 7 has a water supply box (not shown) with multiple water channels inside. The water supply unit 7 receives wash water and rinse water from a water supply hose connection port 8 that protrudes upward from the top cover 6. Specifically, tap water or bath water is supplied from the water supply hose connection port 8 and poured into the outer tub 2. A detergent and finishing agent dispenser 36 is also provided behind the top cover 6. The detergent and finishing agent dispensed into the dispenser 36 are poured between the outer tub 2 and the washing / spin tub 3 via a dispenser hose (not shown).

[0018] The rear side of the bottom of outer tub 2 is connected to wash water drain channel 52 for draining water via normally closed drain valve 53, which is opened only when draining. Drain valve 53 is closed during the wash and rinse operations. Drain valve 53 opens when draining the wash water, and discharges the wash water and rinse water stored in outer tub 2 from wash water drain channel 52 to the outside of washing machine S (outside the machine).

[0019] Washing machine S is equipped with water level sensor 55 that detects the water levels of wash water and rinse water collected in outer tub 2. An air trap 50 is provided near the bottom of outer tub 2. An air tube 56 is connected to and communicates with air trap 50, and a water level sensor 55 is connected to and communicates with the upper end of air tube 56.

[0020] Fig. 2 is a perspective vertical cross-sectional view of a washing and spin-drying tub provided with a rotary blade disc. Fig. 2 is a cross-sectional view taken along the center of shower case 15 (circulation flow path member, first circulation flow path member) and filter case 17 (second circulation flow path member) passing through the rotation center of washing and spin-drying tub 3. As shown in Figure 2, the lower part of washing and spin-drying tub 3 is formed by a shallow, bottomed, cylindrical bottom plate 11. Also, a rotating blade plate 4 is rotatably provided at the bottom of washing and spin-drying tub 3, which agitates the wash water and rinse water to perform washing, rinsing, etc. Rotating blade plate 4 is rotatably installed at the center of the bottom of washing and spin-drying tub 3. Rotating blade plate 4 rotates repeatedly in forward and reverse directions during the washing and rinsing operations.

[0021] Washing and spin-drying tub 3 is constructed by combining bottom plate 11 made of synthetic resin, body plate 31 made of stainless steel alloy, and fluid balancer 3c. Body plate 31 is formed with small through-holes 3a (see FIG. 1). Note that small through-holes 3a are not shown in FIG. 2.

[0022] A shower case 15 (first circulation flow path member) and a filter case 16 (second circulation flow path member) are attached to the inner wall surface of washing and spin-drying tub 3. Shower case 15 and filter case 16 are located from the upper end of body plate 31 to the height of rotor disk 4 on bottom plate 11. Shower case 15 and filter case 16 are also positioned opposite each other with the rotation axis of rotor disk 4 in between. A lint filter 33 is also detachably provided in filter case 16.

[0023] 3 is a perspective view showing the bottom plate of the washing and spin-drying tub, in which the rotor blade disc 4 has been removed from the bottom plate 11. As shown in FIG. 3, the bottom plate 11 has a cylindrical shape with a bottom, and includes a bottom plate 11t forming the bottom surface and a cylindrical side peripheral plate 11s.

[0024] The bottom plate 11t has a central hole 11t1 through which the central axis of the rotor disc 4 passes, and a plurality of through holes 3b around the central hole 11t1 through which the washing liquid flows. A portion of the circulating water channel 51b and a portion of the circulating water channel 61b are recessed in a side peripheral plate 11s of the bottom plate 11.

[0025] Bottom plate 11 is provided with circulation water channel 51b for circulating wash water and rinse water from bottom to top inside washing and spin-drying tub 3. Shower case 15 is attached to circulation water channel 51b. Opposite circulation water channel 51b, circulation water channel 61b (see FIG. 1) is provided at a position where filter case 17 is attached. Circulation water channels 51b and 61b are arranged symmetrically with respect to the central axis of washing and spin-drying tub 3. Circulation water channels 51a and 61a (see FIG. 1) for circulating wash water and rinse water from bottom to top inside washing and spin-drying tub 3 are provided at the bottom of outer tub 2.

[0026] The bottom plate 11 is also provided with a ring-shaped holding portion 11b for holding the lower portion of the shower case 15. The holding portion 11b is formed with a slit-shaped hole 11c into which the lower end portion of the shower case 15 is inserted. A plurality of these holes 11c are formed along the circumferential direction.

[0027] A generally triangular pyramid-shaped straightening member 12 is formed on bottom plate 11 at the center in the width direction of inlet 51b1 of circulating water channel 51b. Straightening member 12 has a triangular central surface 12a facing the center of washing / spinning tub 3, a generally triangular first side surface 12b continuing from one side of central surface 12a, and a generally triangular second side surface 12c continuing from the other side of central surface 12a. Ridge portions 12d (see FIG. 6A) formed at generally the same height are formed on the upper edges of first side surface 12b and second side surface 12c.

[0028] Since the straightening member 12 is located at the lower center of the circulation water channel 51b, the washing liquid pushed out by the rotation of the rotary blade disk 4 (see FIGS. 4 and 5) and remaining in the circulation water channel 51a (see FIG. 1) at the bottom of the outer tub 2 is guided into the vertical circulation water channel 51b (see FIG. 1) of the washing and spin-drying tub 3, and can be smoothly circulated from the bottom to the top of the circulation water channel 51b. Note that the circulation water channel 61b shown in FIG. 1 also has the straightening member 13 (see FIG. 6A) formed therein.

[0029] Fig. 4 is a perspective view showing the shape of the upper surface of the rotor disc. Fig. 5 is a perspective view showing the shape of the lower surface of the rotor disc. The shape of the upper surface of the rotor disc 4 affects the movement of laundry during the washing and rinsing operations.

[0030] 4, the upper surface of the rotor disk 4 is formed with a central bulge 43, a plurality of valleys 42 provided circumferentially outward from the bulge 43, and a plurality of ridges 41 extending radially between adjacent valleys 42. The number of ridges 41 and valleys 42 can be selected arbitrarily.

[0031] As shown in Figure 5, rear blades 47 (blade portions) that form rib-like protrusions are formed on the underside of the rotor disc 4. The rear blades 47 on the underside of the rotor disc 4 protrude downward, and their lower ends are on approximately the same plane. The rear blades 47 play a role in generating a swirling outward flow of water in the detergent solution and rinsing water accumulated at the bottom of the washing and spin-drying tub 3 (see Figure 1) during the washing and rinsing processes.

[0032] Fig. 6A is a plan view of the bottom plate of the washing / spinning tub as seen from above, and Fig. 6B is a cross-sectional view taken along line II of Fig. 6A. As shown in Fig. 6A, bottom plate 11 is provided with a generally triangular pyramid-shaped straightening member 13 (see Fig. 4A) at the center of inlet 61b1 of circulating water channel 61b (see Fig. 1). Straightening member 13 has a generally triangular central surface 13a facing the center of washing / spinning tub 3, a generally triangular first side surface 13b connected to one side of central surface 13a, and a generally triangular second side surface 13c connected to the other side of central surface 13a. Ridge portions 13d are formed at generally the same height on the upper edges of first side surface 13b and second side surface 13c.

[0033] Since the straightening member 13 is located at the lower center of the circulation water channel 61b, the washing liquid that is pushed out by the rotation of the rotor disk 4 (see Figures 4 and 5) and remains in the circulation water channel 61a (see Figure 1) at the bottom of the outer tub 2 is guided to the vertical circulation water channel 61b (see Figure 1) of the washing and spin-drying tub 3, and can be smoothly circulated from the bottom to the top of the circulation water channel 61b.

[0034] As shown in Fig. 6B, width s2 of the inlet edge of circulation water channel 51b is larger than width s1 of circulation water channel 51b, so that the washing liquid remaining at the bottom of washing and spin-drying tub 3 and pushed out by the rotation of rotary blade disk 4 (see Figs. 4 and 5) is smoothly guided into circulation water channel 51b of washing and spin-drying tub 3, and the washing liquid can smoothly circulate from the bottom to the top of circulation water channel 51b.

[0035] Figure 7A is a front view of the shower case, Figure 7B is an enlarged cross-sectional view taken along line II-II of Figure 7A, Figure 7C is a rear view of the shower case, and Figure 7D is a perspective view of the shower case seen from the back. As shown in FIG. 7A, the washing machine includes a front plate 15a facing the center of the washing and spin-drying tub 3, and side plates 15b extending radially outward from both circumferential ends of the front plate 15a. Two vertically extending vertical slits (long, narrow holes) 15a1 (slits) are formed near the center of the width of the front plate 15a. The vertical slits 15a1 are spaced apart circumferentially and arranged parallel to each other. The two vertical slits 15a1 each have the same opening area. The opening area is set so that the shower from the vertical slits 15a1 can reach the center of the washing and spin-drying tub 3. Since the washing and spin-drying tub 3 rotates, reaching the center of the washing and spin-drying tub 3 allows the washing water to be sprayed all over the tub.

[0036] The upper end of vertical slit 15a1 is located lower than the upper end of shower case 15. The lower end of vertical slit 15a1 is located higher than the lower end of shower case 15.

[0037] The upper ends of the pair of side plates 15b have a shower case width s12 which is larger than the width s11 of the front plate 15a. The upper edge of the front plate 15a is lower than the upper edges of the pair of side plates 15b, forming an upper shower outlet 15o (another outlet).

[0038] Shower case 15 is injection molded using a resin such as PP (polypropylene), which is low cost and has excellent heat resistance. The material of shower case 15 is arbitrary as long as it satisfies the function, lifespan, etc. of the shower case.

[0039] As shown in Fig. 7B, vertical slit 15a1 is an opening (through hole) with a slit width s10. Furthermore, front panel 15a is formed thicker at the outlet of vertical slit 15a1 on the center side of washing / spinning tub 3 so as to have a slit height t11. This prevents foreign matter from entering through vertical slit 15a1.

[0040] On the back surface of front plate 15a, vertically elongated ribs 15a2 are formed along the vertical direction (axial direction) outside vertical slits 15a1 in the width direction (circumferential direction). These ribs 15a2 open near vertical slits 15a1, thereby preventing sink marks and deformation when shower case 15 having vertical slits 15a1 is injection molded.

[0041] The rib 15a2 is formed to be longer than the depth of the vertical slit 15a1 and to have a length that allows it to abut against the trunk panel 31 (see FIG. 2).

[0042] As shown in FIG. 7C, shower case 15 has an inflow width dimension s13 of the washing liquid into shower case 15, a width dimension s14 of the interval between the vertical slits, and an upper shower flow path width dimension s15.

[0043] The ribs 15a2 are formed to be longer than the vertical slits 15a1. That is, the upper ends of the ribs 15a2 are aligned with the upper ends of the vertical slits 15a1, and the lower ends of the ribs 15a2 are formed to be longer in the vertical downward direction than the vertical slits 15a1.

[0044] The shower case 15 is formed with a flow path 15r for flowing the washing liquid from below to above and an upper shower outlet 15o in order to shower the laundry in the washing and spin-drying tub 3 from above or the center.

[0045] As shown in FIG. 7D, at the lower end of shower case 15, claws 15c are formed to protrude downward and to be inserted into holes 11c of holding portion 11b (see FIG. 3).

[0046] Additionally, end ribs 15b1 and 15b2 extending substantially vertically are formed near side plate 15b on the rear surface of shower case 15. These left and right end ribs 15b1 and 15b2 form flow path 15r. That is, flow path 15r1 is formed between rib 15a2 and rib 15a2. Flow path 15r2 is formed between rib 15a2 and end rib 15b1. Flow path 15r3 is formed between rib 15a2 and end rib 15b2.

[0047] Fig. 8A is a front view of the filter case, Fig. 8B is a perspective view of the filter case seen from the front side, Fig. 8C is a rear view of the filter case, and Fig. 8D is a perspective view of the filter case seen from the back side. 8A and 8B, filter case 17 has front plate 17a facing the center of washing and spin-drying tub 3, and side plates 17b extending radially outward from both ends of front plate 17a in the circumferential direction (width direction). Front plate 17a is also formed with mounting portion 17d to which lint filter 33 is detachably attached. Mounting portion 17d is formed with a recess so that lint filter 33 can be fitted. A rectangular opening 17e is formed in the bottom surface of mounting portion 17d to allow circulating water to enter lint filter 33.

[0048] Further, at the lower end of filter case 17, a claw 17c is formed to be inserted into an insertion hole 11d (see FIG. 6A) formed in bottom plate 11.

[0049] 8C and 8D, end ribs 17b1 and 17b2 are formed on the inside of side plate 17b on the back surface of filter case 17. End ribs 17b1 and 17b2 are formed to extend vertically at positions where lint filter 33 is attached. End ribs 17b1 and 17b2 are inclined so that the distance between them increases above lint filter 33. End ribs 17b1 and 17b2 are inclined so that the distance between them increases below lint filter 33.

[0050] Furthermore, protruding surfaces 17f1 and 17f2 are formed on the rear surface of filter case 17 so as to protrude from the portions where the side surfaces of lint filter 33 are located. A flow passage 17r1 extending vertically is formed between protruding surface 17f1 and end rib 17b1. A flow passage 17r2 extending vertically is formed between protruding surface 17f2 and end rib 17b2.

[0051] In filter case 17, flow paths 17r1 and 17r2 for flowing washing liquid from below to above and an upper shower outlet 17o (discharge port) are formed so that water is showered onto laundry in washing and spin-drying tub 3 from above.

[0052] FIG. 9 is a front view showing the lint filter. 9, lint filter 33 has case 34 with lint-collecting portion 34a formed therein. Case 34 has claws 34b formed at the bottom to be inserted into holes 17d1 formed in mounting portion 17d (see FIGS. 8A and 8B). Case 34 has hooks 34c formed at the top to be engaged with engaging holes 17d2 formed in mounting portion 17d.

[0053] In washing machine S configured as described above, circulation water channels 51b and 61b are provided in communication with a pump chamber formed by the inner circumferential side (inner bottom) of bottom plate 11 and the outer circumferential side of rear blade 47 of rotor disk 4. Wash water is pushed outward by the force generated by the rotation of rear blade 47, causing the wash water to rise through circulation water channels 51b and 61b. As a result, wash water is intermittently sprayed back into washing and spin-drying tub 3 from upper shower outlet 15o provided at the top of shower case 15. Furthermore, wash water is intermittently sprayed back into washing and spin-drying tub 3 from vertical slits 15a1 provided in shower case 15. Furthermore, wash water is intermittently sprayed back into washing and spin-drying tub 3 from upper shower outlet 17o provided at the top of filter case 17. Furthermore, part of the washing water that has risen up the circulating water passage 61b of the washing / spin-drying tub 3 has lint removed by the lint filter 33 and returns to the washing / spin-drying tub 3.

[0054] Furthermore, when the rotor blade plate 4 rotates, the wash water pushed outward by the rear blades 47 strikes the first and second side surfaces 12b and 12c (see FIG. 6B) of the straightening member 12, which tends to rise vertically upward. This allows the water to circulate smoothly from bottom to top at the center of the width of the circulation channel 51b. By providing the straightening member 12 at the center of the inlet 51b1 of the circulation channel 51b, the wash water is prevented from flowing unevenly in the width direction through the circulation channel 51b. This allows the water to be sprayed in a shower-like manner from the vertical slits 15a1. Therefore, even when the water level is low and the upper shower outlet 15o cannot spray water in a shower-like manner, the wash water can be discharged from the vertical slits 15a1. As a result, even when the water level is low and the load is low, the wash water can be sprayed onto the laundry, improving detergency.

[0055] In addition, when the load is high and the water level is high, the washing water that rises up the circulation water passage 51b passes through the flow paths 15r1 to 15r3, collides with the underside of the fluid balancer 3c, changes direction, and is sprayed into the washing and spin tub 3 from the upper shower outlet 15o.

[0056] Furthermore, when the rotor blade plate 4 rotates, the wash water pushed outward by the rear blades 47 strikes the first side surface 13b and the second side surface 13c (see FIG. 6A) of the rectifying member 13, which tends to rise vertically upward. This allows the water to circulate smoothly from bottom to top at the widthwise center of the circulation water channel 61b. By providing the rectifying member 13 at the center of the inlet 61b1 (see FIG. 6B) of the circulation water channel 61b in this manner, the wash water is prevented from flowing unevenly in the widthwise direction through the circulation water channel 61b. This allows the wash water to be introduced into the lint filter 33. The wash water that rises up the circulation water channel 61b passes through the flow paths 17r1 and 17r2 (see FIGS. 8C and 8D) on both sides of the filter case 17 in the widthwise direction, collides with the lower surface of the fluid balancer 3c, changes direction, and is sprayed in a shower-like manner onto the laundry in the washing and spin-drying tub 3 from the upper shower outlet 17o.

[0057] Next, the operation of the washing machine S according to the embodiment in the washing and rinsing modes will be described. In the washing step, first, the water supply unit 7 (see FIG. 1) supplies water to the dispenser 36 (see FIG. 1) into which the detergent has been dispensed, thereby supplying the detergent, tap water, etc. into the outer tub 2. In the outer tub 2, the solid detergent is dissolved in tap water or the like, while the liquid detergent is diluted with tap water or the like to produce a high-concentration detergent solution. The water supply unit 7 stops supplying water when the water level reaches a first water level, which is a low level just enough to immerse the rear blades 47 on the underside of the rotor disk 4. The first water level is preferably a low level that does not exceed the top surface of the rotor disk 4, but may also be a level that slightly exceeds the top surface of the rotor disk 4. The washing process using the high-concentration detergent solution is performed with a water volume that is less than the water volume calculated according to the load. Furthermore, in washing with the high-concentration detergent solution under high load, the water volume is less than the water volume calculated according to the load, and the water level is set so that the vertical slits 15a1 are not filled.

[0058] When drive motor 10 rotates rotor disk 4 at the first water level, the high-concentration detergent solution that has accumulated at the bottom of outer tub 2 flows upward from circulation water channel 51a at the bottom of outer tub 2 through circulation water channel 51b of washing and spin-drying tub 3 and is supplied through vertical slit 15a1 into washing and spin-drying tub 3. In addition, the high-concentration detergent solution that has accumulated at the bottom of outer tub 2 flows upward from circulation water channel 61a at the bottom of outer tub 2 through circulation water channel 61b of washing and spin-drying tub 3 and is supplied into washing and spin-drying tub 3 through lint filter 33.

[0059] In this way, the high concentration detergent solution is circulated so as to be sprinkled onto the laundry from the vertical slits 15a1, and washing (pre-washing) is performed by rotating the rotary blade disc 4 alternately in the forward and reverse directions.

[0060] Thereafter, the water supply unit 7 supplies water until the water reaches a second water level (a specified amount of water according to the load), which is higher than the first water level, and the drive motor 10 rotates the washing and spin-drying tub 3 and the rotary blade plate 4 alternately in forward and reverse directions, thereby performing a wash (main wash) at the high water level.

[0061] In this way, initially, a high-concentration wash is performed using only vertical slit 15a1 at a low water level. After this high-concentration wash, water is not drained but is instead supplied and stored to a high water level. This allows water to be sprayed not only from vertical slit 15a1 but also from upper shower outlet 15o, making it possible to wash with a large flow rate of wash water. For example, in the case of a low load, a wash using high-concentration detergent solution is performed using only vertical slit 15a1, and then water is supplied and a wash is performed using only vertical slit 15a1 (or using vertical slit 15a1 and upper shower outlet 15o). In addition, in the case of a high load, a wash using high-concentration detergent solution is performed using only vertical slit 15a1, and then water is supplied and a wash is performed using upper shower outlets 15o and 17o.

[0062] In the rinsing process, similar to the washing process, rinsing water is supplied to collect at the bottom of the outer tub 2 and circulated so that it is sprayed onto the laundry from the upper shower outlet 15o and the vertical slit 15a1 (or from the vertical slit 15a1), while the rotary blade plate 4 is rotated forward and backward to remove detergent components contained in the laundry and rinse it.

[0063] In the next dehydration process, the drive motor 10 rotates the washing / dehydration tub 3 and the rotary blade disc 4 in one direction at high speed, and the water contained in the laundry is dehydrated by centrifugal force through the numerous small through holes 3a (see Figure 1).

[0064] The washing machine S of the present embodiment described above includes an outer tub 2, a washing and spin-drying tub 3 rotatably housed within the outer tub 2, a rotary vane plate 4 rotatably supported on the inner bottom of the washing and spin-drying tub 3, rear blades 47 provided on the underside of the rotary vane plate 4, a drive motor 10 that rotates and drives the rotary vane plate 4 and the washing and spin-drying tub 3, and a shower case 15 provided on the inner surface of the washing and spin-drying tub 3 and that, as the rear blades 47 rotate, raises the wash water at the inner bottom of the washing and spin-drying tub 3 and returns it to the washing and spin-drying tub 3. The shower case 15 has a vertical slit 15a1 that extends vertically and returns the wash water that has risen up the shower case 15 back into the washing and spin-drying tub 3. This allows circulating water to be sprayed onto the top of the laundry from the vertical slit 15a1 even under low load (when the water level is low), maintaining the detergent concentration at the top of the laundry and improving washing performance.

[0065] In this embodiment, the vertical slits 15a1 are formed in two locations near the center in the width direction of the shower case 15. This allows the shower to be discharged effectively.

[0066] In this embodiment, the opening areas of the two vertical slits 15a1 are the same, which allows the wash water to be discharged uniformly from the two vertical slits 15a1.

[0067] In this embodiment, washing and spin-drying tub 3 includes bottom plate 11 on which rotor disk 4 is provided, and trunk plate 31 on which shower case 15 is attached, and bottom plate 11 is provided with flow straightening member 12 that causes wash water to rise toward shower case 15. This prevents the wash water rising inside shower case 15 from becoming uneven in the width direction, and allows the wash water to be discharged evenly from two vertical slits 15a1.

[0068] In this embodiment, ribs 15a2 are formed vertically on the outer side of each vertical slit 15a1 in the width direction on the rear surface of shower case 15. As a result, wash water rising inside shower case 15 hits ribs 15a2 and flows toward vertical slits 15a1, making it easier to discharge wash water from vertical slits 15a1 toward washing and spin tub 3.

[0069] In this embodiment, the lower end of the vertical slit 15a1 is located higher than the lowest possible water level, which allows the washing water to be sprayed onto the laundry from the vertical slit 15a1 even when the water level is low, thereby improving washing performance.

[0070] Furthermore, this embodiment includes a shower case 15 (first circulation flow path member) having a vertical slit 15a1 formed therein, a lint filter 33, and a filter case 17 (second circulation flow path member) having an upper shower outlet 17o (discharge port) formed above the lint filter 33, which raises the wash water and discharges it from the washing and spin-drying tub 3. The shower case 15 also has an upper shower outlet 15o (another discharge port) formed above the vertical slit 15a1, which raises the wash water and discharges it into the washing and spin-drying tub 3. The shower case 15 and the filter case 17 are positioned opposite each other. This configuration allows the clothes to move more slowly under heavy loads, so spraying water from both upper shower outlets 15o and 17o allows the wash water to be sprayed all over the clothes. Even when the shower case 15 and the filter case 17 are positioned opposite each other, the detergent solution can be sprayed all over the clothes. As a result, even spraying the detergent solution evenly over the top of the clothes reduces uneven washing and improves cleaning performance.

[0071] Furthermore, cleaning power can be improved by having a shower outlet also from the upper stage (upper shower outlet 17o) of filter case 17. Furthermore, by having a shower outlet from the upper stage of filter case 17, the number of shower cases that were previously provided can be reduced, resulting in cost savings.

[0072] Fig. 10 is a cross-sectional view showing a bottom plate according to a modified example of the washing machine of the present embodiment.Fig. 11 is a rear view showing a shower case according to a modified example of the washing machine of the present embodiment. 10, the bottom plate 11A has a configuration in which the flow rectifying member 12 is removed from the bottom plate 11 of the above-described embodiment. In other words, the bottom plate 11A does not include the flow rectifying member 12.

[0073] 11, shower case 15A has two vertical slits 15a1, 15a1 and a rib 15a3 formed along the vertical direction of vertical slit 15a1. Rib 15a3 is disposed inside vertical slit 15a1.

[0074] In a washing machine of the type that does not have straightening member 12 provided on bottom plate 11A, wash water pushed outward by the rotation of rear blades 47 of rotor disk 4 tends to rise through flow paths 15r2 and 15r3 that are outside rib 15a3. Therefore, because rib 15a3 is provided inside vertical slit 15a1, even if the wash water tends to rise in flow paths 15r2 and 15r3, the wash water will not flow further inward because it hits rib 15a3, and can be discharged into washing and spin tub 3 through vertical slit 15a1.

[0075] As described above, in the washing machine of this embodiment, washing and spin-drying tub 3 includes bottom plate 11A on which rotor disk 4 is provided and trunk plate 31 on which shower case 15A is attached, and ribs 15a3 are formed vertically on the inside widthwise direction of each vertical slit 15a1 on the back surface of shower case 15A. Even in a washing machine that does not have a straightening member, wash water can be sprinkled into washing and spin-drying tub 3 through vertical slits 15a1. [Explanation of symbols]

[0076] 2 Outer tank 3 Washing and spinning tub 4 Rotating blades (mixing blades) 10 Drive motor (drive means) 11,11A bottom plate 12,13 Straightening member 15 shower case (first circulation flow path member) 15a1 Vertical slit (slit) 15a2,15a3 Rib 15o Upper shower outlet (separate outlet) 17o Upper shower outlet (outlet) 17 Filter case (second circulation flow path member) 31 Body plate 33 Lint filter 47 Back wing (wing part)

Claims

1. The outer tank and a washing and spin-drying tub rotatably accommodated within the outer tub; an agitating blade rotatably supported on the inner bottom of the washing and spin-drying tub; A blade portion provided on the underside of the stirring blade; a driving means for rotating the agitating blade and the washing and spin-drying tub; a circulation flow path member that is provided on the inner surface of the washing and spin-drying tub and that causes the blade portion to rotate to raise the washing water at the inner bottom of the washing and spin-drying tub and return it to the washing and spin-drying tub; The washing machine is characterized in that the circulation flow path member has a slit formed therein extending vertically and returning the washing water that has risen through the circulation flow path member into the washing and spin-drying tub.

2. The washing machine according to claim 1, The washing machine is characterized in that the slits are formed at two locations near the center in the width direction of the circulation flow path member.

3. The washing machine according to claim 2, The washing machine is characterized in that the opening areas of the slits are the same.

4. The washing machine according to claim 2, The washing and spin-drying tub includes a bottom plate on which the agitating blade is provided and a body plate on which the circulation flow path member is attached, The washing machine is characterized in that a flow straightening member that causes washing water to rise toward the circulation flow path member is provided on the bottom plate.

5. The washing machine according to claim 4, The washing machine, characterized in that ribs are formed on the back surface of the circulation flow path member along the vertical direction outside the width direction of each of the slits.

6. The washing machine according to claim 2, The washing and spin-drying tub includes a bottom plate on which the agitating blade is provided and a body plate on which the circulation flow path member is attached, The washing machine is characterized in that ribs are formed on the back surface of the circulation flow path member along the vertical direction on the inner side of each of the slits in the width direction.

7. The washing machine according to claim 1, The washing machine is characterized in that the lower end of the slit is located at a position higher than the lowest settable water level.

8. The washing machine according to claim 1, a first circulation flow path member in which the slit is formed; and a second circulation flow path member having a lint filter and a discharge port formed above the lint filter for discharging the washing water upward from the washing and spin-drying tub; Equipped with The first circulation flow path member has another discharge port formed above the slit for discharging the washing water upward into the washing and spin-drying tub, The washing machine, characterized in that the first circulation flow path member and the second circulation flow path member are arranged in opposing positions.

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