Dryer

Abstract

To provide a dryer which includes a fan unit that can blow air with good air passage efficiency, regarding the fan unit which generates air by a scroll flow passage by driving an impeller by an electric motor.SOLUTION: A dryer includes: a drum for storing an object to be dried; drive means for rotationally driving the drum; and a fan unit for delivering drying air to the drum. The fan unit includes: a fan case where a scroll flow passage is formed; an impeller; and an electric motor. The fan case includes: an electric motor installation side fan case; and an intake port installation side fan case. The air passage cross sectional area of the scroll flow passage is enlarged by an inner surface of the electric motor installation side fan case being dented to the outside in the thickness direction of the impeller toward the downstream side, and at the intake port installation side fan case, both an intake port and an exhaust port are formed.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 5

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to dryers. [Background technology]

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a washer-dryer equipped with a centrifugal blower that dries the washing tub by blowing high-speed air into it. It also discloses a fan unit that includes an impeller rotated by the driving force of a motor inside a fan case, and that draws air in from the center of the impeller and discharges it through an exhaust port in the fan case via a scroll passage provided on the outer periphery of the impeller. Patent Document 2 discloses a technique for increasing the efficiency of a scroll flow passage formed around an impeller in a fan case by making the flow passage cross section into a shape that includes an arc, compared to a scroll flow passage with a rectangular flow passage cross section. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2009-72497 [Patent Document 2] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2011-56195 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] The present disclosure provides a dryer equipped with a fan unit that generates air in a scroll flow path by driving an impeller with an electric motor, and that can blow air through the air path efficiently. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] The dryer according to the present disclosure has a drum for accommodating material to be dried, a drive means for driving the drum to rotate, and a fan unit for sending drying air to the drum. The fan unit has a fan case having a scroll flow passage formed therein, an impeller housed in the fan case, and an electric motor for driving the impeller to rotate. The fan case includes a motor-installed fan case in which the motor is installed, and an air intake port-installed fan case disposed opposite the motor-installed fan case and which, together with the motor-installed fan case, forms the scroll flow passage around the impeller. The cross-sectional area of ​​the scroll flow passage is enlarged by the inner surface of the motor-installed fan case being recessed outward in the thickness direction of the impeller toward the downstream side, and the air intake port-installed fan case is provided with both an air intake port and an air exhaust port which communicate with the scroll flow passage. [Effects of the Invention]

[0006] The dryer according to the present disclosure can efficiently blow air through the air passage using a fan unit that generates air in a scroll flow passage by driving an impeller with an electric motor. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0007] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing a side cross section of a drum type washer-dryer according to a first embodiment; [Figure 2] FIG. 1 is a rear view of a fan unit according to a first embodiment. [Figure 3] FIG. 1 is a side view of a fan unit according to a first embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 1 is a front view of a fan unit according to a first embodiment; [Figure 5] FIG. 1 is an exploded perspective view of a fan unit according to a first embodiment. [Figure 6] Cross section of Figure 3 taken along line VI-VI [Figure 7] Cross section of Figure 2, line VII-VII [Figure 8] Cross section of line VIII-VIII in Figure 2 [Figure 9]1 is a rear view of a washing machine main body of a drum type washer / dryer according to a first embodiment; [Figure 10] Schematic diagram showing the relationship between the submerged electrode, the first electrode, the second electrode, and bubbles in the first embodiment. [Figure 11] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing the change over time in the resistance value between the submerged electrode and the first electrode in the first embodiment, and the resistance value between the submerged electrode and the second electrode in the first embodiment. [Figure 12] 1 is a flowchart showing the processing of a washing process by a control means of a drum type washer-dryer according to the first embodiment. [Figure 13] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing the relationship between the submerged electrode, the first electrode, the second electrode, and the deposits in the first embodiment. [Figure 14] FIG. 1 is a diagram schematically illustrating the positional relationship between a first electrode and a second electrode according to the first embodiment. [Figure 15] FIG. 15 is a diagram showing a comparative example to FIG. 14 . [Figure 16] Schematic diagram corresponding to the cross section of line XVI-XVI in Figure 2 [Figure 17] FIG. 17 is a diagram showing a comparative example to FIG. 16. [Figure 18] FIG. 1 is a diagram schematically illustrating the arrangement of second electrodes according to the first embodiment; [Figure 19] FIG. 19 is a diagram showing a comparative example to FIG. 18 . DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0008] (Findings that formed the basis of this disclosure) At the time the inventors conceived the present disclosure, it was common for dryers for drying items such as clothes to use a fan unit with an impeller disposed in a scroll flow path to blow air. In such fan units, the electric motor driving the impeller is attached to the outside of the fan case, and its diameter is often smaller than that of the fan case. The inventors discovered a problem in that dead space is easily generated around the electric motor in the fan case in the thickness direction of the impeller, and this space is not effectively utilized. Furthermore, the inventors discovered a problem in that fan cases that use two or more components, which often comprise two or more components, could improve airflow efficiency depending on the positions of the intake and exhaust ports. The inventors then came up with the subject matter of the present disclosure to solve these problems. Therefore, the present disclosure provides a dryer equipped with a fan unit that generates air in a scroll flow path by driving an impeller with an electric motor, and that has a compact configuration while improving air path efficiency and making it easy to blow a large amount of air.

[0009] Hereinafter, embodiments will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. However, unnecessary detailed description may be omitted. For example, detailed description of well-known matters or redundant description of substantially the same configuration may be omitted. This is to avoid unnecessary redundancy in the following description and to facilitate understanding by those skilled in the art. The accompanying drawings and the following description are provided to enable those skilled in the art to fully understand the present disclosure, and are not intended to limit the subject matter described in the claims.

[0010] (Embodiment 1) Hereinafter, the first embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS.

[0011] [1-1.Configuration] [1-1-1. Composition of a washer / dryer] 1 is a schematic diagram showing a side cross section of a drum type washer-dryer 1 according to Embodiment 1. FIG. 1 corresponds to a cross section taken along a rotation shaft 17 of the drum type washer-dryer 1. In the description of this specification, when front, back, left, right, top and bottom are used for the drum type washer-dryer 1, the directions indicated by the arrows FR, RE, LE, RI, UP, and DO in each drawing will be described as corresponding to the front, back, left, right, top and bottom of the drum type washer-dryer 1. The front side of the drum type washer-dryer 1 may also be referred to as the front. The rear side of the drum type washer-dryer 1 may also be referred to as the back.

[0012] A drum-type washer-dryer (washer-dryer) 1, which is an example of a dryer, has a washing machine main body 10 composed of a frame member and an exterior member. A water tub (outer tub) 11 is supported in a swingable manner in washing machine main body 10. Water tub 11 is supported in a vibration-isolating manner by vibration-isolating members 12 and the like below washing machine main body 10.

[0013] A cylindrical rotating drum (rotating tub, washing drum, drum, inner tub) 13 with a bottom is rotatably provided within the water tub 11. In this embodiment, the rotating drum 13 is inclined so that the central axis of rotation slopes downward as it moves from the front side to the back side. A large number of water passage holes 13a are formed on the entire outer periphery of the rotating drum 13. A plurality of protruding plates 14 for agitating clothes are provided on the inner wall surface of the rotating drum 13. An opening 15 is provided on the front side of the water tub 11 and the rotating drum 13. The opening 15 is covered by a lid 16 that can be opened and closed freely. A user can put laundry, as an example of items to be dried, into and take out of the rotating drum 13 through the opening 15 by opening the lid 16.

[0014] A rotating shaft 17 is provided on the back of rotating drum 13. Rotating shaft 17 coincides with the central axis of water tub 11. A drum motor (drive means) 18 is connected to rotating shaft 17. Drum motor 18 is attached to the back of water tub 11. Drum motor 18 is composed of a DC brushless motor or the like. Drum motor 18 is controlled to rotate in forward and reverse directions and to vary its rotation speed by control means 100 and a drive circuit (not shown). The load on drum motor 18, i.e., the amount of laundry, is input to control means 100 by a signal from a current detection circuit (not shown).

[0015] A water supply path 20 is provided above the water tub 11. The water supply path 20 is connected to, for example, a faucet (not shown). A water supply valve (water supply means) 21 is provided in the water supply path 20. Water can be supplied into the water tub 11 through the water supply path 20 by opening and closing the water supply valve 21. This allows a predetermined amount of water W to be stored in the water tub 11. Within the water tub 11, an upper surface of the water W that corresponds to the shape of the water tub 11, i.e., a water surface W0, is formed. This makes it possible to do laundry. A drainage path 30 is provided below water tub 11. The other end of drainage path 30 is connected to a drainage valve (drainage means) 31. By opening and closing drainage valve 31, the wash water in water tub 11 can be drained.

[0016] A hot air blowing path 40 is provided around water tub 11. In this embodiment, hot air blowing path 40 has supply duct 41 extending from air intake 41a provided on the outer surface of washing machine body 10 to hot air outlet 41b above the back surface of water tub 11, and exhaust duct 42 extending from hot air outlet 42a at the top of water tub 11 to exhaust outlet 42b provided on the outer surface of washing machine body 10.

[0017] Specifically, supply duct 41 has upstream supply duct 41c extending from intake port 41a. A heater (hot air generating means) 43 is disposed in upstream supply duct 41c. A fan unit 44 that forms a flow path is connected to the downstream end of upstream supply duct 41c. Fan unit 44 is connected to downstream supply duct 41d that extends to hot air outlet 41b. A filter 45 for collecting lint, dust, and the like from inside the rotary drum 13 is disposed in the exhaust duct 42 .

[0018] Supply duct 41 and exhaust duct 42 form hot air blowing path 40. In hot air blowing path 40, hot air is introduced into water tub 11 and rotating drum 13 in the direction of arrow A0 from hot air blowing outlet 41b, heating the air inside rotating drum 13 and water tub 11 to dry the laundry.

[0019] Supply duct 41 extending from the rear surface of water tub 11 is provided with first electrode 111 and second electrode 112 as foam detection means. In addition, submerged electrode 110 is provided near the lower rear surface of water tub 11. Submerged electrode 110 is located below water surface W0 and is submerged during washing. The submerged electrode 110 and the first electrode 111 constitute a first bubble detection means SN1 (see FIG. 11). The submerged electrode 110 and the second electrode 112 constitute a second bubble detection means SN2 (see FIG. 11).

[0020] Control means 100 is provided on the lower front side of washing machine main body 10. Control means 100 is configured with an electronic circuit board. Control means 100 may be a computer including a processor such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit) and a storage device such as a memory device such as a ROM (Read Only Memory) or a RAM (Random Access Memory), and various functions of drum type washer-dryer 1 may be realized by the processor executing a control program stored in the memory device or the storage device.

[0021] Control means 100 acquires information from input setting means 101 for setting an operation course, etc., and displays the input information on display means 102 based on the information to inform the user. Furthermore, when the start of operation is set by input setting means 101, control means 100 acquires data from water level detection means (not shown) that detects the water level in water tub 11, and operates water supply valve 21, drain valve 31, heater 43, fan unit 44, etc. via load drive means (not shown). Furthermore, control means 100 controls drum motor 18 via a drive circuit (not shown) to operate a series of processes such as washing, rinsing, spin-drying, and drying.

[0022] [1-1-2. Detailed configuration of the fan unit] FIG. 2 is a rear view of the fan unit 44 according to the first embodiment. FIG. 3 is a side view of the fan unit 44 according to the first embodiment. FIG. 4 is a front view of the fan unit 44 according to the first embodiment. FIG. 5 is an exploded perspective view of the fan unit 44 according to the first embodiment. In other words, FIG. 2 is a diagram showing the fan unit 44 as viewed in the axial direction from the other axial side of the fan motor 90 (the fan motor 90 side). FIG. 3 is a diagram showing the fan unit 44 as viewed in the radial direction of the fan motor 90. FIG. 4 is a diagram showing the fan unit 44 as viewed in the axial direction from one axial side of the fan motor 90 (the intake port 61a side).

[0023] The following describes the positional relationships of the components of the fan unit 44 using three mutually perpendicular axial directions, including the axial direction of the fan unit 44. That is, in addition to the axial direction, the description will also use the horizontal and vertical directions with the fan unit 44 shown in FIG. 2 as a reference. In the fan unit 44, the axial, horizontal, and vertical directions are mutually perpendicular. The horizontal and vertical directions correspond to the radial directions of the fan unit 44. In the drawings illustrating the fan unit 44, one axial side is indicated by arrow X1, and the other axial side is indicated by arrow X2. Furthermore, in the drawings illustrating the fan unit 44, one horizontal side is indicated by arrow Y1, and the other horizontal side is indicated by arrow Y2. Furthermore, in the drawings illustrating the fan unit 44, one vertical side is indicated by arrow Z1, and the other vertical side is indicated by arrow Z2.

[0024] In the fan unit 44, the terms "upstream side" and "downstream side" refer to the direction from the intake port 61a toward the exhaust port 62a, that is, the direction of the wind flowing along the scroll flow passage S (see FIG. 6). Furthermore, the outer circumferential side of the scroll flow passage S refers to the side away from the motor shaft 92 with respect to the width center line S0 of the scroll flow passage S when viewed in the axial direction of the scroll flow passage S (see FIG. 6 when viewed from one axial side X1 to the other axial side X2). Furthermore, the inner circumferential side of the scroll flow passage S refers to the side closer to the motor shaft 92 with respect to the width center line S0 of the scroll flow passage S when viewed in the axial direction of the scroll flow passage S (see FIG. 6).

[0025] Fan unit 44 of the present embodiment has a flat appearance and includes a fan case 44a that forms scroll flow path S, an impeller 70 (see FIG. 5) that is disposed within fan case 44a, and a fan motor 90 that drives impeller 70 to rotate.

[0026] Fan case 44a is configured by combining a pair of axially arranged halves: an intake port side case 60 and a motor side case 80. A packing 79 (see FIG. 5) is sandwiched between the intake port side case 60 and the motor side case 80.

[0027] As shown in FIG. 5, the intake port side case (intake port installation side fan case, first case) 60 has a circular portion 61 formed in a substantially circular shape, and an extending portion 62 extending from the circular portion 61 in a tangential direction of the circular portion 61. The circular portion 61 and the extending portion 62 are recessed toward one axial side X1. The inner surfaces of the circular portion 61 and the extending portion 62 form smooth surfaces. The inner surfaces of the circular portion 61 and the extending portion 62 form the scroll flow passage S in the portion of the one axial side X1 of the scroll flow passage S. A joint portion 63 is formed on the outer periphery of the circular portion 61 and the extending portion 62.

[0028] The mating portion 63 is formed in the circular portion 61 in the same plane extending in the vertical direction. The mating portion 63 is formed in the extending portion 62 so as to incline toward the other axial side X2 as it moves away from the circular portion 61 (see FIG. 3). A fixing portion 64 is formed around the mating portion 63 and protrudes toward the outer periphery. A suitable number of fixing portions 64 are formed.

[0029] An intake port 61a is formed in the radial center of the circular portion 61, penetrating the circular portion 61 in the thickness direction. The intake port 61a opens to one axial side X1. In this embodiment, the intake port 61a has a shape in which the extending portion 62 side of a circular hole is cut out in a linear shape. In other words, the intake port 61a is a substantially D-shaped opening.

[0030] An exhaust port 62a having a rectangular hole shape is formed at the tip of the extension portion 62 extending from the circular portion 61. The exhaust port 62a opens in the radial direction of the fan motor 90. In this embodiment, the exhaust port 62a is inclined in a direction facing one axial side X1 and opens to the other vertical side Z2. That is, the exhaust port 62a is inclined so that it approaches the other vertical side (radially outward) Z2 as it progresses from the one axial side X1 to the other axial side X2. The exhaust port 62a is formed in a substantially rectangular shape whose axial width is narrower than its horizontal width (radial width). In the extension portion 62, the scroll flow path S communicating with the exhaust port 62a also has a substantially rectangular cross section whose axial width is narrower than its horizontal width (radial width) in accordance with the shape of the exhaust port 62a. In this embodiment, an intake port 61a and an exhaust port 62a are formed in an intake port side case 60 which is an integrally formed product.

[0031] A first electrode mounting portion 65 is formed on the outer circumferential side of the scroll passage S of the exhaust port 62a. A first electrode 111 is mounted to the first electrode mounting portion 65. The first electrode mounting portion 65 has an insertion hole 65a penetrating in the radial direction. The first electrode 111 can be inserted into the scroll passage S through the insertion hole 65a. The first electrode 111 is arranged on the short side of the scroll passage S.

[0032] FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view taken along line VI-VI in FIG. As shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, impeller 70 is disposed opposite intake port 61a. The thickness direction of impeller 70 corresponds to the axial direction of fan motor 90. Impeller 70 has a circular main plate 71 fixed to motor shaft 92 of fan motor 90, a circular side plate 72 disposed opposite main plate 71 and having a central opening 72a (see FIG. 7), and a plurality of blades 73 disposed between main plate 71 and side plate 72. Blades 73 are curved so as to retreat from the radially inner side to the radially outer side with respect to the rotation direction R of impeller 70. In other words, blades 73 are backward-facing blades. Impeller 70 of this embodiment is a so-called turbofan.

[0033] A motor-side case (electric motor installation side fan case, second case) 80 is disposed on the other axial side X2 of the impeller 70. The motor-side case 80 is combined with the intake port-side case 60 to form a scroll flow path S. The motor-side case 80 has a shape corresponding to the intake port-side case 60. In detail, the motor-side case 80 has a circular portion 81 formed in a substantially circular shape corresponding to the circular portion 61 and the extending portion 62 of the intake port-side case 60, and an extending portion 82 extending tangentially from the circular portion 81.

[0034] The circular portion 81 and the extending portion 82 are recessed toward the other axial side X2. The inner surfaces of the circular portion 81 and the extending portion 82 form smooth surfaces. The inner surfaces of the circular portion 81 and the extending portion 82 form the scroll flow passage S on the other axial side X2 of the scroll flow passage S. A mating portion 83 is formed on the outer periphery of the circular portion 81 and the extending portion 82. The mating portion 83 is formed in the circular portion 81 in the same plane extending vertically. The mating portion 83 is formed in the extending portion 82 so as to incline toward the other axial side X2 as it moves away from the circular portion 81. The mating portion 83 is connected to the mating portion 63 of the intake port side case 60 via a packing 79. A plurality of fixing portions 84 protruding toward the outer periphery are formed around the mating portion 83. Bolts (fixing members) 66 inserted into the fixing portions 64 of the intake port side case 60 are fastened to the fixing portions 84. As a result, the intake port side case 60 and the motor side case 80 are integrated to form the fan case 44a (see FIGS. 2 to 4).

[0035] A motor shaft hole 81a is formed in the radial center of the circular portion 81, penetrating the circular portion 81 in the thickness direction. The motor shaft hole 81a opens to the other axial side X2. An annular support wall 85 is formed around the motor shaft hole 81a, protruding toward the other axial side X2. Therefore, the support wall 85 and the circular portion 81 form a circularly recessed fan motor accommodating portion 86. A boss portion 87 is formed around the fan motor accommodating portion 86, protruding toward the other axial side X2. A fan motor 90 is fixed to the boss portion 87.

[0036] FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view taken along line VII-VII in FIG. A flat surface portion 81b is formed on the outer circumferential side of the circular portion 81. The flat surface portion 81b is inclined so as to approach the joint portion 83 as it advances toward one vertical side (radially outer side) Z1. The flat surface portion 81b extends linearly in a direction intersecting the vertical direction (radial direction) (see FIG. 2). The flat surface portion 81b is inclined toward the other axial side X2 as it advances downstream. In other words, the flat surface portion 81b protrudes in a direction that expands the scroll flow path S as it advances downstream.

[0037] FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view taken along line VIII-VIII in FIG. A raised portion 81c is formed on the downstream side of the flat portion 81b along the fan motor housing portion 86. In a side view of the fan unit 44 (see FIG. 3), the raised portion 81c is inclined toward the other axial side X2 as it progresses downstream.

[0038] The extension portion 82 is located downstream of the raised portion 81c. In a side view of the fan unit 44 (see FIGS. 3 and 8), the extension portion 82 protrudes from the mating portion 83 toward the other axial side X2 by a predetermined distance L3. The predetermined distance L3 is a distance that protrudes toward the other axial side X2 beyond a position where the distance L2 is half the axial length L1 of the casing 91 of the fan motor 90. The extension portion 82 has a flat extension-portion central surface (flat surface) 82a, an outer side surface portion 82b formed on the outer periphery of the extension-portion central surface 82a and inclined toward the mating portion 83 as it extends outward, and an inner side surface portion 82c (see FIG. 2) formed on the inner periphery of the extension-portion central surface 82a and inclined toward the mating portion 83 as it extends inward. The extension-portion central surface 82a is formed in a planar shape perpendicular or substantially perpendicular to the axial direction of the motor shaft 92.

[0039] A second electrode mounting portion 88 is formed on the extension portion central surface 82a. The second electrode mounting portion 88 is formed upstream of the first electrode mounting portion 65 in the scroll flow passage S. A hole 88a is formed in the second electrode mounting portion 88, penetrating in the axial direction of the motor shaft 92. A second electrode 112 can be inserted into the hole 88a. The second electrode 112 is arranged on the long side of the scroll flow passage S. A temperature sensor mounting portion 89 is formed on the upstream side of the scroll flow passage S from the second electrode mounting portion 88. The temperature sensor mounting portion 89 is formed on the extension portion central surface 82a. A hole 89a is formed in the temperature sensor mounting portion 89, into which a thermistor 119 can be inserted in the axial direction. The thermistor 119 is arranged on the long side of the scroll flow passage S.

[0040] A fan motor (electric motor) 90 is attached to the motor-side case 80. The fan motor 90 has a cylindrical casing 91 that houses a rotor and a stator (not shown), and a motor shaft 92 that protrudes from the casing 91. The fan motor 90 is fixed to the motor-side case 80 via a stay 93. More specifically, the fan motor 90 is fixed to the boss portion 87 via the stay 93 with bolts (fixing members) 94.

[0041] In this embodiment, the electrical components arranged in the supply duct 41, that is, the fan motor 90, the first electrode 111, the second electrode 112, and the thermistor 119, are integrated into the fan unit .

[0042] [1-1-4. Detailed layout of fan units] FIG. 9 is a rear view of washing machine main body 10 of drum type washer-dryer 1 in accordance with the first embodiment. Fan unit 44 is disposed on top of washing machine main body 10. Fan unit 44 is disposed so that motor shaft 92 of fan motor 90 extends toward the upper right rear. Fan unit 44 has exhaust port 62a connected to downstream supply duct 41d. Downstream supply duct 41d is provided at the rear right part of the back surface of water tub 11. Downstream supply duct 41d is directed into water tub 11 from the upper right relative to rotation shaft 17 of drum motor 18. Fan unit 44 is disposed in a state where flat portion 81b prevents interference with obstruction 10a provided on washing machine main body 10.

[0043] [1-1-3. Configuration of bubble detection means] Fig. 10 is a schematic diagram showing the relationship between the submerged side electrode 110, the first electrode 111, the second electrode 112, and the bubble B in the first embodiment. Fig. 11 is a diagram showing the change over time in the resistance between the submerged side electrode 110 and the first electrode 111 in the first embodiment, and the resistance between the submerged side electrode 110 and the second electrode 112 in the first embodiment. In drum type washer-dryer 1, submerged electrode 110 (foam detection means) is immersed in water W during the washing cycle (see FIG. 1). At this time, the washing water containing detergent components is agitated by the rotation of rotary drum 13, generating foam. The foam generated in water tub 11 enters supply duct 41. At this time, abnormal foaming, in which a large amount of foam is generated, may occur. When abnormal foaming occurs, conduction occurs between submerged electrode 110 and first electrode (foam detection means) 111 due to bubbles B (see FIG. 10), etc. As the abnormal foaming progresses further, conduction occurs between submerged electrode 110 and second electrode (foam detection means) 112 due to bubbles B, etc.

[0044] The submerged-side electrode 110 and the first electrode 111 are connected to a resistance value determination circuit (not shown). The control means 100 detects the resistance between the submerged-side electrode 110 and the first electrode 111 and compares it with a reference resistance in the resistance value determination circuit. If the resistance value is high, it determines that no bubbles B have entered due to abnormal bubbling. That is, if bubbles B fill the space between the submerged-side electrode 110 and the first electrode 111, a current path is formed between the submerged-side electrode 110 and the first electrode 111 due to bubbles B, and a low resistance value is detected. If the resistance value is less than a first threshold value, the control means 100 determines that bubbles B due to abnormal bubbling are present. If the resistance value is equal to or greater than the first threshold value, the control means 100 determines that no bubbles B due to abnormal bubbling are present. The first threshold value of the resistance value determination circuit is, for example, 500 kΩ.

[0045] The submerged-side electrode 110 and the second electrode 112 are connected to a resistance value determination circuit (not shown). The control means 100 detects the resistance between the submerged-side electrode 110 and the second electrode 112 and compares it with a reference resistance in the resistance value determination circuit. If the resistance value is high, it determines that no bubbles B have entered due to abnormal bubbling. That is, if bubbles B fill the space between the submerged-side electrode 110 and the second electrode 112, a current path is formed between the submerged-side electrode 110 and the second electrode 112 due to bubbles B, and a low resistance value is detected. If the resistance value is less than a second threshold value, the control means 100 determines that bubbles B due to abnormal bubbling are present. If the resistance value is equal to or greater than the second threshold value, the control means 100 determines that no bubbles B due to abnormal bubbling are present. The second threshold value of the resistance value determination circuit is, for example, 500 kΩ.

[0046] [1-2. Operation] The operation of the drum type washer-dryer 1 configured as above will be described below.

[0047] [1-2-1. Drying process] In drum type washer-dryer 1, heater 43 is heated and fan motor 90 rotates. This causes air to be introduced into warm air blowing path 40 from air intake 41a. The air introduced into warm air blowing path 40 is heated as it passes through heater 43, becoming high-temperature, low-humidity warm air, which is then blown into water tub 11. This warm air raises the temperature of the clothes in water tub 11 and rotating drum 13, causing moisture to evaporate from the clothes, thereby drying the clothes. The air containing the moisture evaporated from the clothes is exhausted from warm air outlet 42a to exhaust duct 42 and then discharged to the outside of drum type washer-dryer 1 from exhaust outlet 42b.

[0048] Here, in the scroll flow path S of the fan unit 44 of this embodiment, the flat portion 81b, the raised portion 81c, and the extending portion 82 cause the motor-side case 80 of the fan case 44a to bulge downstream toward the other axial side X2. In other words, the inner surface of the motor-side case 80 is recessed outward in the thickness direction of the impeller 70 toward the downstream side, and the space in the thickness direction of the impeller 70, i.e., the scroll flow path S, is expanded downstream. Therefore, compared to when the flow path cross-sectional area of ​​the scroll flow path S is expanded only in the radial direction of the impeller 70, it is easier to expand the flow path cross-sectional area of ​​the scroll flow path S while maintaining a compact configuration.

[0049] In particular, in fan case 44a of the present embodiment, of the two components, air intake port side case 60 and motor side case 80, both air intake port 61a and air exhaust port 62a are formed in air intake port side case 60. This makes it easy to form a smooth inner surface of scroll flow path S from air intake port 61a to air exhaust port 62a, making it easy to create an efficient air passage with reduced pressure loss. In addition, the scroll flow passage S of this embodiment has a flow passage cross-sectional area expanded in the radial direction of the impeller 70 as well, making it an even more efficient air passage.

[0050] In addition, the scroll flow path S is generally configured so that air is drawn in from the air intake port 61a in the axial direction of the impeller 70 and exhausted radially outward from the impeller 70. However, when configuring a loop-shaped warm air blowing path 40 as in the washer-dryer 1 of this embodiment, by tilting the exhaust port 62a toward the air intake port 61a, it becomes easier to create an efficient air path that is easy to reduce pressure loss.

[0051] Furthermore, in the scroll flow path S of this embodiment, the air A2 on the inner circumferential side (see FIG. 6) is easily disturbed, but the air A1 on the outer circumferential side (see FIG. 6) flows while being pressed in the centrifugal direction, so the flow tends to be stable. In this embodiment, the thermistor 119 is located on the outer circumferential side of the scroll flow path S (see FIG. 6), and can detect the temperature of the air A1 with a stable flow, which tends to stabilize the accuracy of temperature detection.

[0052] In addition, a flat portion 81b is formed in a part of the scroll flow path S. In this embodiment, this flat portion 81b makes it easy to increase the cross-sectional area of ​​the scroll flow path S while avoiding interference with surrounding components such as the obstruction 10a, and makes it easy to minimize pressure loss.

[0053] [1-2-2. Washing process] FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing the process of the washing process by the control means 100 of the drum type washer-dryer 1 according to the first embodiment. When the washing step is started, the control means 100 determines in step S101 whether the resistance value based on the submerged-side electrode 110 and the first electrode 111 is less than a first threshold value. When the control means 100 determines that the resistance value based on the submerged-side electrode 110 and the first electrode 111 is less than the first threshold value (step S101: Yes), the control means 100 proceeds to the processing of step S104. When the control means 100 determines that the resistance value based on the submerged-side electrode 110 and the first electrode 111 is equal to or greater than the first threshold value (step S101: No), the control means 100 proceeds to the processing of step S102.

[0054] In step S102, the control means 100 determines that no foam B due to abnormal foaming is present between the submerged electrode 110 and the first electrode 111, and starts or continues the normal washing sequence. Here, the normal washing sequence means, for example, operating the rotating drum 13 at a rotation speed of 45 r / min with an agitation time limit of rotating for 12 seconds and pausing for 1 second.

[0055] In step S103, the control means 100 determines whether a predetermined time has elapsed since the start of the normal washing sequence. This predetermined time is, for example, 15 minutes. When the control means 100 determines that the predetermined time has elapsed (step S103: Yes), it ends the washing process. When the control means 100 determines that the predetermined time has not elapsed (step S103: No), the control means 100 returns to the processing of step S101.

[0056] In step S104, the control means 100 determines that abnormal foaming has occurred, and proceeds to the processing of step S105. In step S105, the control means 100 transitions to a weak wash sequence. That is, the control means 100 starts or continues the weak wash sequence. Then, the control means 100 proceeds to the processing of step S106. Here, the weak wash sequence means, for example, operating the rotating drum 13 at a rotation speed of 35 r / min with a weak agitation time period in which the rotating drum 13 rotates for 10 seconds and then pauses for 5 seconds. The weak wash sequence has weaker agitation than the normal wash sequence, and therefore can suppress foaming.

[0057] In step S106, the control means 100 determines whether the resistance value based on the submerged-side electrode 110 and the second electrode 112 is less than a second threshold value. If the control means 100 determines in step S106 that the resistance value based on the submerged-side electrode 110 and the second electrode 112 is less than the second threshold value (step S106: Yes), the control means 100 proceeds to the processing of step S108. When the control means 100 determines that the resistance value based on the submerged-side electrode 110 and the second electrode 112 is equal to or greater than the second threshold value (step S106: No), the control means 100 proceeds to the process of step S107.

[0058] In step S107, the control means 100 determines whether a predetermined time has elapsed since the weak wash sequence was started. When the control means 100 determines that the predetermined time has elapsed (step S107: Yes), the control means 100 returns to the processing of step S101. When the control means 100 determines that the predetermined time has not elapsed (step S107: No), the control means 100 returns to the processing of step S105.

[0059] In step S108, the control means 100 determines that abnormal foaming has progressed, and proceeds to the processing of step S109. In step S109, the control means 100 drives the drain valve 31 to drain the water from the water tub 11. Then, the control means 100 ends the washing process. Thereafter, the control means 100 sequentially performs a series of steps such as rinsing, spin-drying, and drying.

[0060] As described above, when the washing process starts in the drum type washer-dryer 1, foam detection is started based on the resistance value between the submerged-side electrode 110 and the first electrode 111 (step S101). If the generation of foam B is not detected at this time, steps S101, S102, and S103 are repeated, and the normal washing sequence is executed for a predetermined time.

[0061] During the normal wash sequence, if the resistance value between the submerged electrode 110 and the first electrode 111 becomes less than the first threshold value (step S101: Yes), it is determined that abnormal foaming has occurred (step S104), and the system transitions to a weak wash sequence (step S105), and the wash process is executed to suppress foaming. At this time, if further progress in the generation of foam B is not detected, steps S105, S106, and S107 are repeated, and the weak wash sequence is executed for a predetermined time.

[0062] During the weak wash sequence, if the resistance value between the submerged electrode 110 and the second electrode 112 becomes less than the second threshold value, it is determined that the abnormal foaming has progressed further (step S108), and the drain valve 31 is driven to drain the water in the water tank 11 (step S109), thereby ending the wash process.

[0063] Fig. 13 is a schematic diagram showing the relationship between the submerged electrode 110, the first electrode 111, the second electrode 112, and the deposit D in the first embodiment. Fig. 14 is a schematic diagram showing the positional relationship between the first electrode 111 and the second electrode 112 in the first embodiment. Fig. 15 is a diagram showing a comparative example to Fig. 14. In the drum type washer-dryer 1, as the washing cycle is repeated multiple times, abnormal foaming B reaches the second electrode 112, which may result in deposits D such as detergent residue and lint accumulating between the first electrode 111 and the second electrode 112, as shown in FIG. 13 .

[0064] When sediment D has accumulated and foam B reaches first electrode 111, a thin film T of wash water is formed between first electrode 111 and second electrode 112 via sediment D, causing a short circuit between first electrode 111 and second electrode 112, which may cause the resistance value between submerged electrode 110 and second electrode 112 to fall below the second threshold. In other words, even though foam B caused by abnormal foaming has not yet reached second electrode 112, it may be erroneously detected as abnormal foaming continuing to progress, which may result in unnecessary discharge of detergent and water added by the user.

[0065] In contrast to this, in the present embodiment, the first electrode 111 is provided on the intake port side case 60, and the second electrode 112 is provided on the motor side case 80. 15, when the first electrode 111 and the second electrode 112 are provided in the same case part, the creeping distance x between the first electrode 111 and the second electrode 112 tends to be short, so that deposits D tend to accumulate continuously between the first electrode 111 and the second electrode 112, forming a thin film T of wash water and causing a short circuit. In contrast, in the present embodiment, the intake port side case 60 and the motor side case 80 are connected via joints 63, 83, so that the creeping distance between the first electrode 111 and the second electrode 112 tends to be long, so that deposits D tend not to accumulate continuously between the first electrode 111 and the second electrode 112, and the thin film T of wash water tends not to cause a short circuit.

[0066] In particular, in this embodiment, a foam packing 79 is provided between the intake port side case 60 and the motor side case 80. The presence of the packing 79 between the intake port side case 60 and the motor side case 80 prevents contact between the mating portions 63 and 83. Therefore, as shown in FIG. 14 , the gap between the mating portions 63 and 83 is easily maintained, and the creepage distance between the first electrode 111 and the second electrode 112 is easily increased to x1 + x2 + y1 + y2. Therefore, in this embodiment, deposits D such as detergent residue and lint are less likely to accumulate continuously between the first electrode 111 and the second electrode 112, reducing the likelihood of false detection due to a short circuit. Furthermore, the packing 79 is generally made of a water-repellent material such as silicone, making it difficult for dirt to adhere to it. Therefore, a thin film T of washing water is less likely to form around the packing 79, reducing the likelihood of false detection due to a short circuit.

[0067] Fig. 16 is a schematic diagram corresponding to the cross section taken along line XVI-XVI in Fig. 2. Fig. 17 is a diagram showing a comparative example to Fig. 16. Figs. 16 and 17 show schematic arrangements of second electrodes 112. As shown in Fig. 6, air currents A1 and A2 flow through the scroll flow path S during the drying process. At this time, the air current A1 flows faster on the outer periphery side of the scroll flow path S, and the air current A2 flows slower on the inner periphery side. In this embodiment, the first electrode 111 and the second electrode 112 are located on the outer periphery side of the scroll flow path S (see Fig. 6), and therefore are disposed in positions where detergent residue, lint, and the like are less likely to accumulate due to the fast-flowing air current A1, making it easier to prevent short circuits.

[0068] In particular, in this embodiment, the second electrode 112 is disposed on the extension central surface 82a, and is disposed in the center of the flow path width on the long side of the scroll flow path S having a substantially rectangular cross section. Here, as shown in FIG. 17, when the second electrode 112 is disposed in the center of the flow path width on the short side of the scroll flow path S having a substantially rectangular cross section, the distance λ2a between the second electrode 112 and the inner wall surface 82a of the scroll flow path S and the distance λ2b between the second electrode 112 and the inner wall surface 62 of the scroll flow path S tend to be short, resulting in poor foam removal due to surface tension. In contrast, in this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 16, the distance λ1a between the second electrode 112 and the inner wall surface 82c of the scroll flow path S and the distance λ1b between the second electrode 112 and the inner wall surface 82b of the scroll flow path S tend to be larger than the distances λ2a and λ2b on the short side, thereby improving foam removal. Therefore, in this embodiment, it is possible to make it difficult for deposit D to accumulate between first electrode 111 and second electrode 112, and it is difficult for erroneous detection due to a short circuit to occur.

[0069] Fig. 18 is a diagram schematically showing the arrangement of second electrodes 112 in embodiment 1. Fig. 19 is a diagram showing a comparative example to Fig. 18. In this embodiment, the second electrode 112 is provided on the central surface 82a of the extension portion. Therefore, there is no step around the second electrode 112. Here, as shown in FIG. 19, if there is a step 182a near the second electrode 112, surface tension will cause poor foam removal, and foam B will likely remain even when air A flows. Therefore, the remaining foam B will likely accumulate as deposit D. In contrast, in this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 18, the second electrode 112 is disposed on the flat central surface 82a of the extension portion of the motor-side case 80, so foam removal is good. Therefore, deposit D is unlikely to accumulate around the second electrode 112, and short-circuiting between the first electrode 111 and the second electrode 112 is unlikely to occur.

[0070] [1-3. Effects, etc.] As described above, in the present embodiment, drum type washer-dryer 1 includes rotary drum 13 that accommodates laundry as an example of an article to be dried, drum motor 18 that rotationally drives rotary drum 13, and fan unit 44 that sends drying air to rotary drum 13. Fan unit 44 includes fan case 44a having scroll flow path S formed therein, impeller 70 housed in fan case 44a, and fan motor 90 that rotationally drives impeller 70. The case 44a includes a motor side case 80 in which a fan motor 90 is installed, and an intake side case 60 arranged opposite the motor side case 80 and forming a scroll flow path S around the impeller 70 together with the motor side case 80, the cross-sectional area of ​​the air passage of the scroll flow path S being enlarged by the inner surface of the motor side case 80 being recessed outward in the thickness direction of the impeller 70 toward the downstream side, and the intake side case 60 is formed with both an intake port 61a and an exhaust port 62a that communicate with the scroll flow path S.

[0071] According to this configuration, the inner surface of the motor-side case 80 is recessed outward in the thickness direction of the impeller 70 toward the downstream side, thereby utilizing the space around the fan motor 90 to increase the air passage cross-sectional area of ​​the scroll flow path S toward the downstream side. Furthermore, by providing the exhaust port 62a in the intake port-side case 60 out of the motor-side case 80 and the intake port-side case 60, the intake port 61a and the exhaust port 62a are connected by a smooth inner surface, reducing pressure loss in the scroll flow path S and achieving a large air volume. Therefore, it is possible to provide a drum type washer-dryer 1 including a fan unit 44 that drives the impeller 70 with the fan motor 90 to generate air in the scroll flow path S, and that has improved air passage efficiency despite its compact configuration and is capable of easily blowing a large volume of air.

[0072] As in this embodiment, the scroll flow passage S may be formed so as to surround the periphery of the fan motor 90. According to this configuration, by expanding the motor side case 80 so as to surround the periphery of the fan motor 90, the cross-sectional area of ​​the air passage of the scroll flow passage S can be increased, making it easier to improve the air passage efficiency.

[0073] Furthermore, as in this embodiment, the outer surface of the motor side case 80 may be expanded to a size equal to or greater than half the thickness of the fan motor 90. According to this configuration, the cross-sectional area of ​​the scroll flow passage S can be easily made large, recessed outward to about half the thickness of the fan motor 90 or more, and the efficiency of the air passage can be easily improved.

[0074] Furthermore, as in this embodiment, a thermistor 119 for acquiring the temperature of the air flowing through the scroll passage S may be arranged on the outer periphery of the scroll passage S when viewed in the direction of the rotation axis of the impeller 70. According to this configuration, temperature acquisition is performed in a portion where the airflow is easily rectified, making it easier to stabilize temperature acquisition.

[0075] Furthermore, as in this embodiment, the fan case 44a may have one or more flat portions 81b that form part of the scroll flow path S and are inclined so that the thickness decreases as one moves radially around the impeller 70. According to this configuration, even in a small space for arranging the fan unit 44, the flat portion 81b can suppress interference between components, while increasing the flow path area of ​​the scroll flow path S, making it easier to improve air passage efficiency.

[0076] Furthermore, as in this embodiment, the rotating drum 13 may be a rotating drum 13 that is rotatably arranged in a water tub 11 whose interior serves as a washing chamber and a drying chamber, and that accommodates laundry as an example of items to be dried. According to this configuration, it is possible to provide a drum type washer-dryer 1 with a washing function that has a compact configuration and is equipped with a fan unit 44 that has improved air path efficiency and can easily blow a large amount of air.

[0077] (Other embodiments) As described above, the first embodiment has been described as an example of the technology disclosed in the present application. However, the technology in the present disclosure is not limited to this, and can be applied to embodiments in which modifications, substitutions, additions, omissions, etc. are made. Furthermore, it is also possible to combine the components described in the first embodiment above to create new embodiments.

[0078] Therefore, other embodiments will be exemplified below. In the first embodiment, the configuration of drum type washer-dryer 1 having water tub 11 has been described, but the washing function may be omitted. In other words, the dryer may not have water tub 11.

[0079] In the first embodiment, the hot air blowing path 40 has an intake port 41a and an exhaust port 42b, and is configured to take in outside air, generate hot air, and exhaust it. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, a heat pump device may be provided in place of the heater 43 along the hot air blowing path 40, and the hot air blowing path 40 may be configured to be circulating. That is, by providing a dehumidifying heat exchanger and a heating heat exchanger (hot air generating means) provided in the heat pump device along the hot air blowing path 40, the air can be heated after being dehumidified, and the air in the hot air blowing path 40 may be repeatedly used.

[0080] It should be noted that the above-described embodiments are intended to illustrate the technology of the present disclosure, and various modifications, substitutions, additions, omissions, etc. may be made within the scope of the claims or their equivalents.

[0081] (Addendum) The above description of the embodiments discloses the following techniques.

[0082] (Technology 1) A dryer having a drum that contains material to be dried, a drive means that drives the drum to rotate, and a fan unit that sends drying air to the drum, wherein the fan unit has a fan case with a scroll flow path formed therein, an impeller housed in the fan case, and an electric motor that drives the impeller to rotate, and the fan case includes a motor-installed fan case in which the motor is installed, and an air-intake port-installed fan case that is disposed opposite the motor-installed fan case and that, together with the motor-installed fan case, forms the scroll flow path around the impeller, and the cross-sectional area of ​​the scroll flow path is enlarged by the inner surface of the motor-installed fan case being recessed outward in the thickness direction of the impeller toward the downstream side, and the air-intake port-installed fan case is formed with both an air-intake port and an air-outlet port that communicate with the scroll flow path.

[0083] (Technical Aspect 2) The dryer according to Technical Aspect 1, wherein the scroll passage is formed so as to surround the periphery of the electric motor.

[0084] (Technical Technique 3) The dryer according to Technical Technique 2, wherein the outer surface of the fan case on the side where the electric motor is installed is expanded to a size equal to or larger than half the thickness of the electric motor.

[0085] (Technology 4) A dryer according to any one of Technologies 1 to 3, wherein a temperature acquisition means for acquiring the temperature of air flowing through the scroll passage is arranged on the outer periphery of the scroll passage when viewed in the direction of the rotation axis of the impeller.

[0086] (Technology 5) A dryer described in any one of Technologies 1 to 4, wherein the fan case has one or more flat surfaces that form part of the scroll flow path and are inclined so that the thickness decreases as the fan case moves radially around the impeller.

[0087] (Technology 6) A dryer according to any one of technologies 1 to 5, wherein the drum is an inner tub that is rotatably arranged within an outer tub whose interior serves as a washing chamber and a drying chamber and that accommodates items to be dried. [Industrial Applicability]

[0088] The present disclosure is suitably applicable to dryers, washer-dryers, and the like that are equipped with a fan unit that generates wind in a scroll flow path by driving an impeller with an electric motor. [Explanation of symbols]

[0089] 1 Drum type washer-dryer (washer-dryer, dryer) 10 Washing machine body 10a Interference 11 Aquarium (outer tank) 12 Vibration-isolating member 13 Rotating drum (rotating tub, washing drum, drum, inner tub) 13a Water hole 14 Projection plate 15 Opening 16 Lid 17 Rotation axis (rotation center axis) 18 Drum motor (drive means) 20 Water supply route 21 Water supply valve (water supply means) 30 Drainage route 31 Drain valve (drainage means) 40 Warm air flow path 41 Supply Duct 41a Air intake 41b Warm air outlet 41c Upstream supply duct 41d Downstream supply duct 42 Exhaust duct 42a Hot air outlet 42b Exhaust port 43 Heater (hot air generating means) 44 Fan Unit 44a Fan case 45 filters 60 Intake port side case (intake port installation side fan case, first case) 61 Circular section 61a Air intake 62 Extension (inner wall surface) 62a Exhaust port 63 Joint 64 Fixed part 65 First electrode mounting portion 65a Insertion hole 66 volts 70 Impeller 71 board 72 Side Panel 72a aperture 73 Feather 79 Gasket 80 Motor side case (motor installation side fan case, second case) 81 Circular section 81a Motor shaft hole 81b Plane part 81c ridge 82 Extension 82a Center surface of extension (flat surface) 82b Outer side (inner wall) 82c Inner surface (inner wall surface) 83 Joint 84 Fixed part 85 Supporting wall 86 Fan motor housing 87 Boss Section 88 Second electrode mounting portion 88a hole 89 Temperature sensor mounting part 89a hole 90 Fan motor (electric motor) 91 Casing 92 Motor shaft 93 Stay 94 volts 100 Control means 101 Input setting means 110 Submerged electrode (first bubble detection means, second bubble detection means) 111 First electrode (first bubble detection means) 112 second electrode (second bubble detection means) 119 Thermistor (temperature acquisition means) 182a Step A Wind A0 Arrow A1 Wind A2 wind B bubbles D Deposit L1 length L2 size L3 size R Rotation direction S Scroll flow path S0 width center line SN1 First bubble detection means (bubble detection means) SN2 Second bubble detection means (bubble detection means) T thin film W water W0 Draft surface x Creepage distance x1+x2+y1+y2 Creepage distance λ1a distance λ1b distance λ2a distance λ2b distance

Claims

1. A dryer having a drum for accommodating an object to be dried, a driving means for driving the drum to rotate, and a fan unit for sending drying air to the drum, The fan unit includes a fan case having a scroll flow passage formed therein, an impeller housed in the fan case, and an electric motor that rotates and drives the impeller, the fan case includes an electric motor installation side fan case in which the electric motor is installed, and an intake port installation side fan case that is disposed opposite the electric motor installation side fan case and that, together with the electric motor installation side fan case, forms the scroll flow passage around the impeller, an inner surface of the motor-mounted fan case is recessed outward in a thickness direction of the impeller toward a downstream side, thereby enlarging a cross-sectional area of ​​the scroll flow path; The fan case on the intake port side has both an intake port and an exhaust port that communicate with the scroll flow path. dryer.

2. The scroll passage is formed to surround the periphery of the electric motor. The dryer of claim 1 .

3. The outer surface of the fan case on the motor installation side is expanded to a size equal to or greater than half the thickness of the motor. The dryer according to claim 2.

4. A temperature acquisition unit for acquiring the temperature of air flowing through the scroll passage is disposed on the outer circumferential side of the scroll passage as viewed in the direction of the rotation axis of the impeller. The dryer according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

5. The fan case has one or more flat surfaces that are inclined so that the size in the thickness direction decreases as the fan case moves in the radial direction of the impeller, and that form a part of the scroll flow path. The dryer according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

6. The drum is an inner tub that is rotatably disposed within an outer tub whose interior serves as a washing chamber and a drying chamber, and that accommodates the material to be dried. The dryer according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

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