Washing machine

Abstract

To provide a washing machine capable of preventing erroneous input of a solid agent.SOLUTION: A washing machine according to the present disclosure includes a washing drum rotatably arranged in a housing, and a washing agent supply unit configured to supply a washing agent to the washing drum, wherein the washing agent supply unit includes a first washing agent box and a second washing agent box, the first washing agent box is provided with a first washing agent dispensing opening for dispensing a first washing agent, and the second washing agent box is provided with a second washing agent dispensing opening for dispensing a second washing agent different from the first washing agent; The washing machine includes a second washing agent case for storing a second washing agent and supplying the second washing agent to the washing tub, and a solid agent case for storing a solid agent and supplying the solid agent to the washing tub, the solid agent case being provided with a solid agent feeding port through which the solid agent is fed, wherein the solid agent feeding port is disposed between the first washing agent feeding port and the second washing agent feeding port.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 4

Description

[Technical Field]

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

[0002] For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a washing machine that uses silver crystals as a disinfectant to treat laundry.

[0003] The washing machine described in Patent Document 1 has a silver crystal unit containing silver crystals and a water injection device that supplies water to the silver crystal unit. By supplying water to the silver crystal unit, the water comes into contact with the silver crystals and becomes silver ion water, which is then poured into the washing tub. The silver ion water has a disinfecting effect on laundry. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Patent Publication No. 2021-122527 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] An object of the present disclosure is to solve the above problem and to provide a washing machine that can prevent erroneous addition of solid agents. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] A washing machine according to one embodiment of the present disclosure includes a washing tub rotatably mounted within a housing, and a laundry agent supply unit for supplying laundry agents to the washing tub. The laundry agent supply unit includes a first laundry agent case having a first laundry agent inlet through which a first laundry agent is dispensed and for storing the first laundry agent and supplying it to the washing tub, and a solid agent case having a solid agent inlet through which a water-soluble solid agent is dispensed and for storing the solid agent and supplying it to the washing tub. The first laundry agent case includes a laundry agent storage space for storing the first laundry agent and a restricting portion for restricting the passage of the solid agent, and the maximum width dimension of the first laundry agent inlet is smaller than the longitudinal dimension of the solid agent inlet.

[0007] A washing machine according to one embodiment of the present disclosure includes a washing tub rotatably mounted within a housing, and a laundry agent supply unit for supplying laundry agents to the washing tub. The laundry agent supply unit includes a first laundry agent case having a first laundry agent inlet through which a first laundry agent is dispensed and for storing the first laundry agent and supplying it to the washing tub, and a solid agent case having a solid agent inlet through which a water-soluble solid agent is dispensed and for storing the solid agent and supplying it to the washing tub. The first laundry agent case includes a laundry agent storage space for storing the first laundry agent, and a restricting portion for restricting the passage of the solid agent, and the restricting portion protrudes laterally between the first laundry agent inlet and the inner bottom surface of the laundry agent storage space.

[0008] A washing machine according to one embodiment of the present disclosure includes a washing tub rotatably mounted within a housing, and a laundry agent supply unit for supplying laundry agents to the washing tub. The laundry agent supply unit includes a first laundry agent case having a first laundry agent inlet through which a first laundry agent is added and for storing the first laundry agent and supplying it to the washing tub, and a solid agent case having a solid agent inlet through which a water-soluble solid agent is added and for storing the solid agent and supplying it to the washing tub. The first laundry agent case includes a laundry agent storage space for storing the first laundry agent and a regulating part for regulating the passage of the solid agent. The laundry agent supply unit includes a discharge part for discharging the first laundry agent and water from the laundry agent storage space, and the regulating part is provided at an entrance to the discharge part.

[0009] A washing machine according to one embodiment of the present disclosure includes a washing tub rotatably mounted within a housing, and a laundry agent supply unit for supplying laundry agents to the washing tub. The laundry agent supply unit includes a first laundry agent case having a first laundry agent inlet through which a first laundry agent is introduced and for accommodating and supplying the first laundry agent to the washing tub, and a solid agent case having a solid agent inlet through which a water-soluble solid agent is introduced and for accommodating and supplying the solid agent to the washing tub. The first laundry agent case includes a laundry agent storage space for accommodating the first laundry agent and a restricting portion for restricting the passage of the solid agent. The washing machine further includes a second laundry agent inlet through which a second laundry agent is introduced and for accommodating and supplying the second laundry agent to the washing tub, and the solid agent inlet is disposed between the first laundry agent case and the second laundry agent case.

[0010] A washing machine according to one embodiment of the present disclosure includes a washing tub rotatably arranged within a housing, and a laundry agent supply unit that supplies laundry agent to the washing tub. The laundry agent supply unit has a solid agent case that stores a water-soluble solid agent and supplies it to the washing tub, and a first laundry agent case that stores a first laundry agent and supplies it to the washing tub. The solid agent case has a solid agent inlet for adding the solid agent to the solid agent case. The first laundry agent case has a laundry agent storage space that stores the first laundry agent, and an inlet for adding the first laundry agent to the laundry agent storage space, and an inlet member that is arranged to cover the laundry agent storage space from above. The inlet member functions as a regulating part that prevents the solid agent from entering the laundry agent storage space. [Effects of the Invention]

[0011] According to the present disclosure, a washing machine capable of preventing the erroneous addition of solid agents can be provided. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0012] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a washing machine according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure; [Figure 2] Perspective view of a detergent supply unit [Figure 3] Perspective view of a detergent supply unit [Figure 4]Perspective view of the manual insertion unit [Figure 5] Cross section of manual feeding unit [Figure 6] Perspective view of the manual insertion unit [Figure 7] A perspective view of the inlet member [Figure 8] A perspective view of the inlet member [Figure 9A] Perspective view of a pill case [Figure 9B] Perspective view of a pill case [Figure 9C] Top view of a pill case [Figure 9D] Cross-section of a tablet case [Figure 10A] Perspective view of a tablet [Figure 10B] Perspective view of a tablet [Figure 11] Top view of detergent supply unit [Figure 12] Cross-sectional view of detergent supply unit [Figure 13] Enlarged perspective view of the water supply nozzle [Figure 14A] Cross section of water supply nozzle [Figure 14B] Cross section of water supply nozzle [Figure 15A] Schematic cross-sectional view of a tablet case [Figure 15B] Cross-sectional view of a part of the detergent supply unit [Figure 15C] Disinfection course sequence diagram [Figure 16] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a washing machine according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 17] Perspective view of a detergent supply unit [Figure 18] Perspective view of a detergent supply unit [Figure 19] Perspective view of the manual insertion unit [Figure 20] Perspective view of the manual insertion unit [Figure 21] Cross section of manual feeding unit [Figure 22] Perspective view of a pill case [Figure 23] A perspective view of a pill case in an open state. [Figure 24] Cross-section of a tablet case [Figure 25] Cross-sectional view of detergent supply unit DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0013] (Findings that formed the basis of this disclosure) At the time the inventors arrived at the present disclosure, a water-soluble solid agent containing sodium dichloroisocyanurate was known as a technology for disinfectants for cleaning bathtubs. Inspired by the technology for disinfectants for cleaning bathtubs, the inventors came up with the idea of ​​a washing machine in which a single-use water-soluble solid agent is added to apply the components of the solid agent to laundry. The inventors then discovered that realizing this idea posed a problem: it was necessary to prevent the solid agent from being accidentally supplied to the washing tub in an undissolved state. To solve this problem, the inventors came up with the subject matter of the present disclosure.

[0014] (Embodiment 1) A washing machine 1 according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure will be described.

[0015] [Overall configuration] 1 is a perspective view showing a washing machine 1 according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown in FIG. 1, the washing machine 1 includes a housing 2, a water tub 3, a washing tub 4, a detergent supply unit 5, and a control unit C.

[0016] <Case> The housing 2 is a member that forms the exterior of the washing machine 1. An opening 20 and a door 21 that covers the opening 20 and can be opened and closed freely are provided on the top surface of the housing 2.

[0017] <Aquarium> The water tub 3 is provided inside the housing 2 and is a roughly cylindrical member with one end closed so as to store wash water. The water tub 3 may also be referred to as an outer tub.

[0018] <Washing tub> Washing tub 4 is a roughly cylindrical member that is rotatably provided inside water tub 3 and that contains laundry such as clothes. Washing tub 4 has a number of through-holes 40 that communicate with water tub 3. Through-holes 40 allow the movement of wash water and detergent between water tub 3 and washing tub 4. Washing tub 4 also has opening 41 at a position facing opening 20 of housing 2. Laundry is placed into washing tub 4 through opening 41. Washing tub 4 may also be called a drum or an inner tub.

[0019] <Laundry agent supply unit> The laundry agent supply unit 5 is a unit that supplies laundry treatment agents such as liquid agents, powder detergents, and solid agents to the washing tub 4. Supplying laundry treatment agents means discharging them downward toward the washing tub 4. The liquid agents are liquid agents used to wash laundry such as clothes. The liquid agents may include detergent, fabric softener, and neutral detergent.

[0020] The detergent supply unit 5 includes a manual supply unit 6 and an automatic supply unit 7.

[0021] <Control unit> The control unit C is a component that controls the operation of the washing machine 1. The control unit C may include, for example, a memory (not shown) that stores a program and a processing circuit (not shown) that corresponds to a processor such as a CPU, and function as these elements by the processor executing the program.

[0022] Next, the configuration of the detergent supply unit 5 will be described with reference to Figures 2 and 3. Figures 2 and 3 are perspective views of the detergent supply unit 5.

[0023] As shown in FIG. 2, the detergent supply unit 5 includes a unit case 50, a lid 50a, a manual dispensing unit 6, an automatic dispensing unit 7, a water supply member 10, and a flow path member 11 (FIG. 3).

[0024] 3, the unit case 50 is a member that houses the manual feeding unit 6, the automatic feeding unit 7, and the flow path member 11. The top of the unit case 50 is open and is covered with a lid 50a.

[0025] The manual dosing unit 6 is a mechanism that allows the user to manually dispense a single dose of laundry agent, such as liquid detergent, powder detergent, or solid agent, each time the washing machine 1 is operated. The laundry agent dispensed into the manual dosing unit 6 flows into the washing tub 4 in the dispensed amount.

[0026] The laundry agent for one dose dispensed into the manual dispenser unit 6 is contained in a plurality of cases 60, 61, 62, and 63 formed by the manual dispenser unit 6. In the first embodiment, each of the cases 60, 61, 62, and 63 contains a detergent, fabric softener, powder detergent, or water-soluble solid agent (e.g., tablet) for one dose.

[0027] The automatic dispensing unit 7 is a mechanism that automatically dispenses a predetermined amount of liquid agent from a tank that stores the liquid agent into the washing tub 4. The automatic dispensing unit 7 dispenses an appropriate amount of an appropriate type of liquid agent into the washing tub 4, for example, depending on the amount and type of laundry. The automatic dispensing unit 7 has two tanks 70 and 71 that are arranged in the width direction K (for example, the horizontal direction) and contain the liquid agent, and a pump (not shown) that sucks and discharges the liquid agent. In the first embodiment, the tank 70 contains the detergent, and the tank 71 contains the fabric softener.

[0028] The water supply member 10 is a mechanism that supplies water to the detergent supply unit 5 via a flow path member 11. The water supply member 10 is composed of a plurality of water supply valves 10a, 10b, and 10c, and the destination of the water supply can be changed by opening and closing the water supply valves 10a, 10b, and 10c. Specifically, when the water supply valve 10a is opened, water is supplied to the cases 60 and 62; when the water supply valve 10b is opened, water is supplied to the cases 61 and 63; and when the water supply valve 10c is opened, water is supplied to the automatic dispensing unit 7. The water supply valves 10a, 10b, and 10c are, for example, solenoid valves.

[0029] Flow path member 11 is a member that guides water supplied from water supply valves 10a, 10b, and 10c to the supply destinations. Flow path member 11 is provided above cases 60, 61, 62, and 63, and is connected to water supply valves 10a, 10b, and 10c. More specifically, flow path member 11 forms multiple independent paths that connect water supply valves 10a, 10b, and 10c to the supply destinations.

[0030] The water supplied to the cases 60, 61, 62, and 63 of the manual feeding unit 6 flows into the washing tub 4 together with the detergent contained therein.

[0031] Next, the configuration of the manual insertion unit 6 will be described in more detail with reference to Figures 3 to 6. Figure 4 is a perspective view of the manual insertion unit 6. Figure 5 is a cross-sectional view showing the manual insertion unit 6 with the case 63 and the insertion port members 65 and 66 removed. Figure 6 is a perspective view showing the manual insertion unit 6 with the case 63 and the insertion port members 65 and 66 removed.

[0032] 3, the manual insertion unit 6 includes a main body 64. The main body 64 is a member held in the unit case 50 so as to be able to be pulled out in the front-rear direction L.

[0033] 4, inlet members 65, 66 and a case 63 (hereinafter referred to as tablet case 63) are housed in main body 64. Inlet members 65, 66 and tablet case 63 are housed in main body 64 in a detachable manner.

[0034] As shown in Figures 4 and 5, cases 60, 61, and 62 for containing laundry agents are arranged side by side in the width direction K in the main body 64. As described above, the case 60 (hereinafter, detergent case 60) contains a detergent, the case 61 (hereinafter, fabric softener case 61) contains a fabric softener, and the case 62 (hereinafter, powder detergent case 62) contains a powder detergent. In the main body 64, the detergent case 60 and the powder detergent case 62 are adjacent to each other. Meanwhile, a space 67 is provided between the detergent case 60 and the fabric softener case 61, and a tablet case 63 is placed in the space 67.

[0035] 5, the fabric softener case 61 has a storage space 78 that stores fabric softener, and a liquid agent discharge flow path 74. The liquid agent discharge flow path 74 has a U-shape that extends upward from an inlet 74a, turns back at the top of the fabric softener case 61, and is connected to a bottom surface 78a of the storage space 78. The liquid agent discharge flow path 74 sucks up the fabric softener through the inlet 74a and discharges it from an opening 61a formed in the bottom surface 78a of the storage space 78.

[0036] The detergent case 60 has a storage space 77 for storing a detergent, and a liquid agent discharge flow path 73. The liquid agent discharge flow path 73 has a U-shape similar to the liquid agent discharge flow path 74.

[0037] The inlet member 65 is disposed in the storage space 77 and forms an inlet 65a for dispensing detergent. The inlet member 66 is disposed in the storage space 78 and forms an inlet 66a for dispensing fabric softener.

[0038] More specifically, the inlet member 65 is disposed so as to cover the liquid agent discharge flow path 73 of the detergent case 60, and the inlet member 66 is disposed so as to cover the liquid agent discharge flow path 74 of the fabric softener case 61. When the inlet members 65, 66 cover the liquid agent discharge flow paths 73, 74, a flow path is formed between the inlet members 65, 66 and the liquid agent discharge flow paths 73, 74. With this structure, when the liquid level in the cases 60, 61 exceeds a predetermined height, the water and liquid agent can exceed the apex of the liquid agent discharge flow paths 73, 74. In other words, by opening the water supply valve 10a or the water supply valve 10b and supplying water to the case 60 or the case 61, the detergent or fabric softener will not flow out of the case 60, 61 and can be retained within the case 60, 61 until the liquid level exceeds the predetermined height. Furthermore, even after water supply valve 10a or water supply valve 10b is closed to stop the water supply, the liquid agent and water in case 60 or case 61 are discharged from opening 60a or opening 61a due to the siphon effect in the flow path between inlet members 65, 66 and liquid agent discharge flow paths 73, 74. This prevents water from remaining in case 60 or case 61.

[0039] On the other hand, the powder detergent case 62 does not have any member forming an inlet, and the entire top surface is open upward.

[0040] The tablet case 63 is a component that contains a water-soluble solid agent used in one sterilization washing course. When water is applied to the solid agent, the solid agent dissolves, and the dissolved solid agent is supplied to the washing tub 4. The solid agent is a solid that is solid or hollow. For example, the solid agent is a solid formed from compressed and aggregated powder. The solid agent may also be referred to as a solid processing agent. In the first embodiment, a tablet J will be described as an example of a solid agent.

[0041] Here, Tablet J contains a component that exhibits sterilization performance. Tablet J contains a water-soluble component and has a fixed shape before water is supplied, but when water is applied, it breaks down into small fragments and dissolves in water.

[0042] Regarding the constituent materials of tablet J, tablet J may contain a component that generates hypochlorous acid. In embodiment 1, tablet J contains sodium dichloroisocyanurate as a disinfecting component. Tablet J may further contain a component that reacts with water to generate foam.

[0043] Regarding the shape of the tablet J, the tablet J may have a shape that allows it to move to a predetermined position in the tablet case 63, for example, it has an outer peripheral shape or contour that allows it to move by rolling. In the first embodiment, the tablet J has a disk shape (FIGS. 10A and 10B) with a diameter D0 greater than a thickness T0.

[0044] The tablets J placed in the tablet case 63 may be specific tablets J intended for use by the manufacturer of the washing machine 1. For example, the tablets J may be one or more specified types of tablets J. Also, for example, the types of tablets J may be types selected from a catalog or list stored in the control unit C.

[0045] The tablet case 63 has an insertion opening 63a formed on the front side L1 for inserting tablets J. When the tablet case 63 is placed in the main body 64, the insertion opening 63a is located between the insertion openings 65a and 66a which are aligned in the width direction K.

[0046] Tablet case 63 is fixed by being hooked onto the wall of main body 64 that defines space 67. Specifically, tablet case 63 has hooking portion 80a that protrudes outward from tablet case 63, hooking portion 81a, and gripping portion 81b, and hooking portion 80a, hooking portion 81a, and gripping portion 81b are hooked onto main body 64.

[0047] 6, openings 60a, 61a, 62a, and 67a are provided on bottom surface 64a of main body 64 at positions corresponding to cases 60, 61, and 62 and space 67. When water is supplied from water supply member 10 to cases 60, 61, 62, and 63, the contained liquid agent flows out together with the water from openings 60a, 61a, 62a, and 67a toward washing tub 4.

[0048] 7 and 8 are perspective views of the insertion port member 65. In the following, only insertion port member 65 will be illustrated and described, but insertion port member 66 also has a similar structure. Insertion port member 66 has a guide portion 168 (FIG. 4) similar to guide portion 68 of insertion port member 65.

[0049] As shown in Figures 7 and 8, the inlet member 65 has a guide portion 68, a guide portion 69, and an engagement portion 75. The guide portion 68 is a wall portion that defines the range of the inlet 65a, and guides the liquid agent from the periphery of the inlet 65a to the inlet 65a. The guide portion 69 is a flow path member that extends downward from the inlet 65a, and guides the liquid agent from the inlet 65a to the inside of the inlet member 65 (case 60). The engagement portion 75 is a flow path member that covers the liquid agent discharge flow path 73.

[0050] 7, when a user mistakenly inserts a tablet J into the insertion port 65a, the guide portion 68 extends in a direction intersecting the traveling direction (arrow A1) of the tablet J passing through the insertion port 65a. In the first embodiment, the guide portion 68 extends in the horizontal direction with respect to the tablet J inserted in the vertical direction.

[0051] The opening size of the insertion port 65a defined by the guide portion 68 is smaller than the outer size of the tablet J. The opening size is the maximum dimension across the insertion port 65a. More specifically, the length D1 of the diagonal of the insertion port 65a is smaller than the diameter D0 of the tablet J. Therefore, regardless of the posture of the tablet J, it is difficult for the tablet J to pass through the insertion port 65a. In the first embodiment, the insertion port 65a has a substantially rectangular or rounded rectangular shape. Therefore, if the tablet J is a disk, even if the dimensional difference between the length D1 and the diameter D0 is small, the tablet J is less likely to get stuck in the insertion port 65a, and the tablet J can be easily collected from the vicinity of the insertion port member 65.

[0052] Guide portion 68, which defines inlet 65a through which tablets J have difficulty passing, functions as a restricting portion. In this specification, a restricting portion is a member that prevents tablets J from erroneously reaching inside washing tub 4. The restricting portion is a structure that obstructs the entry of tablets J when tablets J that have been put into the wrong case (i.e., a case other than tablet case 63) attempt to move to the back of the case, for example, storage space 77. The restricting portion may be a narrowing of the passage, a protrusion that protrudes in a direction intersecting the direction in which tablets J are trying to move, a mesh, or the like. On the other hand, the restricting portion is configured so as not to obstruct the passage of the liquid medicine that is normally put into the case.

[0053] As shown in Figure 8, the guide portion 69 guides the liquid agent introduced through the inlet 65a into the detergent case 60. One side of the guide portion 69 is open, and the introduced liquid agent is guided along the arrow A1. The guide portion 69 has a flat surface 69a facing the inlet 65a. Even if a portion of the tablet J dissolves and becomes smaller, passing through the inlet 65a, the flat surface 69a catches the tablet J, thereby preventing the tablet J from reaching the bottom of the storage space 77 and becoming difficult to remove.

[0054] Figures 9A and 9B are perspective views of a tablet case 63. Figure 9C is a plan view of the tablet case 63. Figure 9D is a cross-sectional view of the tablet case 63 taken along line AA in Figure 9C. Figures 10A and 10B are perspective views of a tablet J.

[0055] In the first embodiment, the tablet case 63 has one side wall 80 and an open side on the opposite side.

[0056] As shown in Figure 9A, a peripheral wall 81, protrusions 87, 88, protrusions 83a, and protrusions 83b are provided on one surface of the side wall 80 so as to protrude in the width direction K (short side direction). The peripheral wall 81 protrudes from the outer periphery of the side wall 80 and forms the front, bottom, and back surfaces of the tablet case 63. The protrusions 87 and 88 are provided on the inside of the peripheral wall 81. The protrusions 83a and 83b are provided on the upper part of the side wall 80.

[0057] As shown in Fig. 9B, a hook portion 80a is provided on the other surface of the side wall 80. The hook portion 80a protrudes in the opposite direction (outside the tablet case 63) from the peripheral wall 81. By hooking the hook portion 80a onto the detergent case 60, the tablet case 63 is supported by the main body 64 (Fig. 5).

[0058] 9A, the top of tablet case 63 and the surface facing side wall 80 are open. In embodiment 1, outer wall 89 (FIG. 9D) of softener case 61 functions as the other side wall of tablet case 63.

[0059] The side wall 80 has a mesh 82 penetrating in the thickness direction (width direction K) of the side wall 80. The dissolved tablet J flows out of the mesh 82 together with the water and is supplied to the washing tub 4.

[0060] The peripheral wall 81 has an inclined surface 84 aligned in the front-to-rear direction L, a vertical wall portion 85, and a bottom wall portion 86. The inclined surface 84 is a wall portion below the insertion port 63a that is inclined downward relative to the horizontal toward the rear side L2. The inclined surface 84 guides the tablet J inserted into the insertion port 63a to the water supply position K1 on the rear side L2 along the direction of gravity. The vertical wall portion 85 is a wall portion that extends downward from the lower end of the inclined surface 84, and forms a step between the inclined surface 84 and the bottom wall portion 86. The bottom wall portion 86 is a wall portion that extends from the lower end of the vertical wall portion 85 in the front-to-rear direction L. The bottom wall portion 86 defines the water supply position K1 at a position on the rear side L2 away from the lower end of the vertical wall portion 85.

[0061] Here, the water supply position K1 is the position of the bottom wall portion 86 where the tablet J is placed when water is supplied. The water supply position K1 is the position where the tablet J is expected to reach after being added.

[0062] The water supply position K1, together with the peripheral wall 81 and the protrusion 88, forms a storage space K10 that stores tablets. The storage space K10 is an area in which the tablet J exists when the tablet J is stored in the tablet case 63. The storage space K10 may be larger than the outer shape of the tablet J. In other words, the dimensions of the storage space K10 are determined so as to contain the tablet J within the storage space K10. In the first embodiment, the dimension D4 of the storage space K10 in the front-rear direction L is larger than the diameter D0 of the tablet J (FIGS. 10A and 10B). The storage space K10 has a vertically elongated shape that is long in the front-rear direction L in a plan view seen from the vertical direction. In the first embodiment, the short side of the storage space K10 is horizontal (width direction K). Specifically, the dimension D4 of the storage space K10 in the front-rear direction L is larger than the dimension D6 of the storage space K10 in the width direction K.

[0063] The water supply nozzles 12, 13 of the flow path member 11 are formed at the top of the storage space K10. The storage space K10 may be provided directly below the water supply nozzles 12, 13. The vertical dimension D7 of the storage space K10 is larger than the dimension D6 of the storage space K10 in the width direction K. In the first embodiment, the vertical dimension D7 of the storage space K10 is equal to the dimension D4 of the storage space K10 in the front-to-rear direction L. The vertical dimension D7 may be larger than the dimension D4 in the front-to-rear direction L.

[0064] Furthermore, a plurality of dot-shaped protrusions 92 are formed on the peripheral wall 81 around the storage space K10, protruding in the width direction K and contacting the fabric softener case 61. In the first embodiment, four protrusions 92 are formed, each having a spherical shape. The four protrusions 92 are arranged to surround the storage space K10.

[0065] An end portion of the front side L1 of the peripheral wall 81 bends relative to the front surface to form a hook portion 81a that protrudes toward the front side L1. An end portion of the rear side L2 of the peripheral wall 81 bends relative to the back surface to form a grip portion 81b that protrudes toward the rear side L2.

[0066] Hook portion 81a and grip portion 81b hook onto the wall portion that defines space 67 (FIG. 5). Furthermore, when removing tablet case 63 from main body 64, the user can grasp grip portion 81b and lift tablet case 63. Grip portion 81b may be patterned so that the user can easily recognize that grip portion 81b is a member that can be grasped. In the first embodiment, a linearly extending convex portion 81c is formed on the upper surface of grip portion 81b.

[0067] As shown in FIG. 9C , the protrusion 87 is provided between the lower end of the inclined surface 84 and the water supply position K1, at a position with a gap R1 from the lower end of the inclined surface 84 in the front-to-rear direction L. The protrusion 87 is a member for guiding the tablet J from the inclined surface 84 to the water supply position K1. Therefore, the width D5 of the gap R1 between the protrusion 87 and the inclined surface 84 is smaller than the diameter D0 of the tablet J. The protrusion 87 may be inclined downward toward the rear side L2. The protrusion 87 may be formed along the inclined surface 84, for example, along an extension line of the inclined surface 84.

[0068] The protruding portion 87 is spaced apart from the peripheral wall 81. A space R2 is formed between the protruding portion 87 and the peripheral wall 81 below the protruding portion 87.

[0069] The protruding portion 88 is provided between the protruding portion 87 and the water supply position K1, at a position spaced apart from the lower end of the protruding portion 87. The protruding portion 88 functions as a holding portion that holds the tablet J in the storage space K10. Therefore, the protruding portion 88 is provided at a height from the bottom wall portion 86 that is equal to or less than the diameter D0 of the tablet J. The protruding portion 88 may extend in the vertical direction. With this structure, the tablet J can be more easily and stably held in the storage space K10 compared to when the protruding portion 88 extends in the front-rear direction L.

[0070] The protrusion 88 is spaced from the peripheral wall 81 and is positioned above the bottom wall 86, with a gap R3 between them. Therefore, the space R2 below the protrusion 87 and the storage space K10 are in communication with each other through the gap R3 below the protrusion 88. By providing the gap R3, water supplied to the storage space K10 flows into the space R2 and is drained through the mesh 82 provided in the space R2. This prevents the water level from rising in the tablet case 63. Furthermore, by providing the gap R1, the inclined surface 84 and the protrusion 87 form a so-called stepping-stone structure. Even if the water level rises and the water runs over the protrusion 87, the water can fall into the space R2 through the gap R1. This prevents the water from pushing up fragments of the tablet J onto the inclined surface 84. Compared to when the inclined surface 84 and the protruding portion 87 are continuous, the area of ​​the inclined surface 84 and the protruding portion 87 can be made smaller, thereby preventing fragments of tablet J from remaining on the inclined surface 84 or the protruding portion 87.

[0071] In the peripheral wall 81, the inclined surface 84, the vertical wall portion 85, and the bottom wall portion 86 are smoothly connected. The corner between the vertical wall portion 85 and the bottom wall portion 86 has a curvature. Therefore, compared to when the curvature of the corner is small, fragments of the tablet J are less likely to get stuck in the corner, and the amount of undissolved tablet J can be reduced.

[0072] As shown in Figure 9D, peripheral wall 81 protrudes from side wall 80 toward outer wall 89 of softener case 61. Therefore, outer wall 89 forms the other side wall of tablet case 63. Side wall 80 and outer wall 89 face each other. However, when tablet case 63 is removed from main body 64, outer wall 89 remains on main body 64, and the opposing state between side wall 80 and outer wall 89 is automatically released. Release of the opposing state makes it easier to access the inner wall of tablet case 63, making it easier to clean and maintain the inner wall of tablet case 63.

[0073] The dimension of the peripheral wall 81 in the width direction K is smaller than the dimension of the side wall 80 in the front-to-rear direction L. That is, the width direction K in which the peripheral wall 81 protrudes is the short direction of the tablet case 63, and the depth from the side wall opening facing the side wall 80 to the inner wall surface of the side wall 80 is shallow. This structure makes it easier to access the inner wall surface of the side wall 80, facilitating maintenance. The mesh 82 is provided on the inner wall surface of the side wall 80, facing the side wall opening. Therefore, the mesh 82 is easily accessible through the side wall opening, facilitating maintenance such as cleaning.

[0074] The protrusions 83a and 83b abut against the upper portion of the outer wall 89. Even if the outer wall 89 bulges outward when the main body 64 is molded, the protrusions 83a and 83b push back the outer wall 89. In other words, the protrusions 83a and 83b function to correct the shape of the softener case 61. This structure ensures sufficient space inside the tablet case 63. By forming the protrusions 83a and 83b near the center of the tablet case 63, deflection of the softener case 61 can be corrected over a wider range compared to when the protrusions 83a and 83b are provided at the ends of the tablet case 63 in the front-to-rear direction L. Furthermore, when the softener case 61 is molded from resin, it is long in the front-to-rear direction L and therefore prone to bulging in the width direction K. However, providing the protrusions 83a and 83b allows parts molded from resin to be more effectively used.

[0075] The protrusions 92 also abut against the outer wall 89. Therefore, a gap R4 is formed between the peripheral wall 81 and the outer wall 89 of the softener case 61. This structure allows water to drain from between the peripheral wall 81 and the outer wall 89. By providing the gap R4 in the peripheral wall 81, a drainage path other than the mesh 82 can be provided, making it possible to drain water even if the mesh 82 becomes clogged. Furthermore, by providing the gap R4 in the peripheral wall 81, the tablet case 63 can be manufactured more easily than if a gap were provided in the bottom wall portion 86. The dimension D6 of the gap R4 in the width direction K may be smaller than the opening size of the mesh 82. This structure ensures that the filtering function of the mesh 82 is not impaired even when water passes through the gap R4.

[0076] Because the protrusion 92 has a spherical shape, the contact area with the softener case 61 can be reduced, and the friction between the tablet case 63 and the softener case 61 can be reduced. This makes it easier to remove the tablet case 63.

[0077] When the protrusion 83a abuts against the outer wall 89, as shown in Fig. 9A, the protrusion 83a divides the opening at the top of the tablet case 63 into an insertion opening 63a on the front side L1 and an opening 63b on the rear side L2. The opening 63b is located above the storage space K10. The insertion opening 63a is an opening for inserting the tablets J, and the opening 63b is an opening for pouring water onto the tablets J from the water supply nozzles 12, 13. In addition, the opening 63b is also an opening for checking whether or not the tablets J have been inserted.

[0078] Returning to FIG. 3, when the main body 64 is pulled out from the unit case 50, the entire insertion opening 63a is exposed. The insertion opening 63a may have a vertically elongated shape, i.e., the width D2 of the insertion opening 63a may be smaller than the length D3 of the insertion opening 63a in the front-to-rear direction L. On the other hand, when the main body 64 is pulled out from the unit case 50, a part of the opening 63b is exposed. The user can see the inside of the tablet case 63 through the opening 63b and check whether a tablet J has already been inserted. The opening size of the exposed opening 63b may be smaller than the outer size of the tablet J.

[0079] 9A and 9B, the mesh 82 may be configured with ribs 82a and 82b extending in two intersecting directions. In the first embodiment, the mesh 82 is configured with a plurality of ribs 82a (FIG. 9A) extending in the horizontal direction (front-rear direction L) and a plurality of ribs 82b (FIG. 9B) extending in the vertical direction.

[0080] In mesh 82, ribs 82a extending in the horizontal direction form the inner wall of tablet case 63, and ribs 82b extending in the vertical direction form the outer wall of tablet case 63. Because the supplied water first hits ribs 82a extending in the horizontal direction, the water is less likely to flow downward, and more water is discharged to the outside of tablet case 63 through mesh 82. This makes it possible to maintain a low water level inside tablet case 63. This makes it possible to prevent water from overflowing from tablet case 63 and water containing fragments of tablet J from overflowing from openings such as inlet 63a at the top of tablet case 63. Furthermore, the low water level makes it possible to prevent fragments of tablet J from drifting to the top of tablet case 63 and remaining in tablet case 63 without dissolving.

[0081] As shown in Fig. 10A and Fig. 10B, tablet J has a disk shape and a diameter D0 and a thickness T0. Fig. 10A shows a position in which tablet J is placed vertically with the thickness direction perpendicular to the input direction A2. Fig. 10B shows a position in which tablet J is placed horizontally with the thickness direction parallel to the input direction A2. The vertical position is a position in which the vertical dimension is larger than the dimension in the short direction (e.g., thickness direction) of tablet J in a horizontal cross section. In order to store a vertically placed tablet J in the storage space K10, the vertical dimension D7 of the storage space K10 is larger than the dimension D6 in the width direction K, and the dimension D4 in the front-rear direction L of the storage space K10 is also larger than the dimension D6 in the width direction K (Fig. 9A). In order to effectively utilize space and store the vertically placed tablet J in the storage space K10, the dimension D4 in the front-rear direction L of the storage space K10 is approximately the same as the diameter D0 of the tablet J, and the dimension D6 in the width direction K is approximately the same as the thickness T0 of the tablet J. Furthermore, the vertically placed position is a position in which the movable contour is in contact with the placement surface. In the embodiment, the tablet J moves along the outer periphery, and the position in which the outer periphery of the tablet J is in contact with the placement surface is the vertically placed position.

[0082] In the first embodiment, the width D2 of the insertion port 63a is smaller than the diameter D0 of the tablet J and larger than the thickness T0 of the tablet J. The length D3 of the insertion port 63a is larger than the diameter D0 of the tablet J. Therefore, the tablet J passes through the insertion port 63a in a vertically placed position. In other words, the tablet J has difficulty passing through the insertion port 63a in a horizontally placed position.

[0083] In order to feed and store upright placed tablets J into the tablet case 63 while effectively utilizing the space in the width direction K, the width D2 of the insertion opening 63a is approximately the same as the thickness T0 of the tablets J. In other words, the width D2 of the insertion opening 63a and the dimension D6 (FIG. 9A) of the storage space K10 in the width direction K are approximately the same.

[0084] 9C, when a tablet J placed upright is inserted into the insertion port 63a, the tablet J rolls on the inclined surface 84 and the protruding portion 87 and reaches the water supply position K1. There, the tablet J is retained in the storage space K10 by the arrangement of the protruding portion 88.

[0085] When the tablet J is placed in the storage space K10, the tablet J is dissolved by water supplied from the water supply nozzles 12, 13 (FIG. 12).

[0086] Here, the supply of water to the tablet J will be described.

[0087] FIG. 11 is a top view of the detergent supply unit 5 with the lid 50a removed. As shown in FIG. 11, the three water supply valves 10a, 10b, and 10c (FIG. 3) of the water supply member 10 are connected to paths F1, F2, and F3 of the flow path member 11, respectively. The paths F1, F2, and F3 are formed independently of one another. The path F1 connected to the water supply valve 10a forms a flow path for supplying water to the detergent case 60 and the powder detergent case 62. The path F2 connected to the water supply valve 10b forms a flow path for supplying water to the fabric softener case 61 and the tablet case 63. The path F3 connected to the water supply valve 10c forms a flow path for supplying water to the automatic dispensing unit 7. By supplying water to multiple cases through a single path, the number of water supply valves in the water supply member 10 can be reduced, simplifying the configuration.

[0088] Path F2 forms openings 14 and 15 facing tablet case 63 and multiple openings 16 facing fabric softener case 61. When water supply valve 10b is opened and communicates with path F2, water flows into tablet case 63 through openings 14 and 15 (see arrow B). On the other hand, water that exceeds openings 14 and 15 then flows into fabric softener case 61 through opening 16.

[0089] Fig. 12 is a cross-sectional view of the detergent supply unit 5. As shown in Fig. 12, a water supply nozzle 12 extending downward from an opening 14 and a water supply nozzle 13 extending downward from an opening 15 are provided at the top of the tablet case 63. The water supply nozzles 12 and 13 are cylindrical members and form internal flow paths 26 and 27. Therefore, water that flows into the openings 14 and 15 is discharged into the inside of the tablet case 63 through the internal flow paths 26 and 27.

[0090] The water supply nozzles 12, 13 are arranged above the water supply position K1 and aligned in the front-rear direction L. More specifically, the water supply nozzles 12, 13 are arranged at positions opposite the water supply position K1.

[0091] Fig. 13 is an enlarged perspective view of the water supply nozzles 12 and 13. Fig. 14A is a cross-sectional view of the water supply nozzle 12. Fig. 14B is a cross-sectional view of the water supply nozzle 13.

[0092] As shown in Figure 13, the water supply nozzles 12 and 13 have similar shapes, and discharge openings 24 and 25 for discharging water are formed at the lower ends of each. The discharge openings 24 and 25 are inclined in a direction deviated from the vertical. In other words, the plane passing through the discharge openings 24 and 25 is inclined relative to the horizontal. The discharge opening 24 is inclined in the opposite direction to the discharge opening 25.

[0093] 14A, the internal flow path 26 of the water supply nozzle 12 has a straight flow path 26a and an end flow path 26b. The straight flow path 26a extends downward from the opening 14. The end flow path 26b extends from the lower end of the straight flow path 26a to the discharge opening 24, at an angle relative to the up-and-down direction. In other words, the central axis C1 of the end flow path 26b is inclined relative to the vertical direction.

[0094] In the first embodiment, the cross section of the end flow passage 26b narrows from the upstream side toward the discharge opening 24, and the cross section of the end flow passage 26b is formed in a tapered shape. Therefore, water passing through the end flow passage 26b flows so as to gather on the central axis C1, and is likely to be discharged from the discharge opening 24 in a direction along the central axis C1 (diagonally downward).

[0095] As shown in FIG. 14B, the internal flow path 27 of the water supply nozzle 13 has a straight flow path 27a and an end flow path 27b, similar to the internal flow path 26 of the water supply nozzle 12. The end flow path 27b of the water supply nozzle 13 is inclined in the opposite direction to the end flow path 26b of the water supply nozzle 12. Therefore, the central axis C2 of the end flow path 27b is inclined in the opposite direction to the central axis C1. With this structure, the water discharged from the discharge opening 25 is discharged in the opposite direction to the water discharged from the discharge opening 24. This allows the tablet J to be wetted more uniformly from both sides. The inclination angles of the end flow paths 26b and 27b may be the same.

[0096] Fig. 15A is a schematic cross-sectional view of the tablet case 63 as seen from the front-rear direction L. Fig. 15B is a cross-sectional view of a part of the detergent supply unit 5.

[0097] As shown in FIG. 15A, end flow paths 26b, 27b (FIGS. 14A and 14B) of water supply nozzles 12, 13 extend toward positions offset from water supply position K1. Specifically, end flow paths 26b, 27b extend toward positions on the side wall 80 surrounding water supply position K1 and the outer wall 89 of the fabric softener case 61. Therefore, water is discharged from water supply nozzle 12 diagonally downward toward side wall 80 of tablet case 63 (arrow W1). Water is also discharged from water supply nozzle 13 diagonally downward in the opposite direction toward the outer wall of fabric softener case 61 on the opposite side (arrow W2).

[0098] The water hits point P1 on the side wall 80 and point P2 on the outer wall 89 of the softener case 61, and flows downward along the wall surface. Points P1 and P2 are above the apex of the tablet J and are located on the mesh 82 above the storage space K10. The water hits the side wall 80 at points P1 and P2, slowing down the flow rate of the water. After hitting, the water flows downward along the wall surface, hits the side of the tablet J, and is absorbed by the tablet J. Because the water hits the side wall 80 once and then indirectly hits the side of the tablet J, the force of the water hitting the tablet J can be reduced compared to when water hits the tablet J directly from the water supply nozzles 12 and 13.

[0099] Furthermore, after the collision, part of the water flowing downward passes through the mesh 82 and flows out of the tablet case 63. Therefore, the amount of water that reaches the tablet J can be reduced, and the force of the water can be further reduced.

[0100] Some water may bounce off the wall and hit tablet J.

[0101] 15B, the height of the outer wall 89 of the softener case 61 is lower than the height of the side wall 80. The tips of the water supply nozzles 12 and 13 are higher than the top of the outer wall 89 and lower than the top of the side wall 80.

[0102] The flow path member 11 is provided with a protrusion 11a that protrudes toward the lower hook portion 80a on the outside of the tablet case 63. Therefore, a labyrinth structure is formed by the protrusion 11a and the side wall 80. This structure prevents water from flowing from the detergent case 60 to the tablet case 63 when water is supplied to the detergent case 60 through path F1. Similarly, when water is supplied to the tablet case 63 through path F2, water is prevented from flowing from the tablet case 63 to the detergent case 60.

[0103] Since water is supplied to the softener case 61 at the same time as the tablet case 63, it is not necessary for the upper part of the outer wall 89 to form a labyrinth structure.

[0104] [Operation] Next, the operation of the washing machine 1 when the sterilization course is executed will be described with reference to Fig. 15C. Fig. 15C is a sequence diagram of the sterilization course.

[0105] The sterilization course refers to a washing course carried out to remove bacteria attached to clothes and towels. One tablet J is used in one sterilization course. After the sterilization course is completed, it is expected that the tablet J will not remain in the tablet case 63 in the same shape as before it was inserted. Therefore, the user inserts new tablets J into the tablet case 63 before the next sterilization course.

[0106] As shown in Fig. 15C, the sterilization course includes a washing step, a first rinsing step, a second rinsing step, and a spin-drying step. In the washing step, detergent is supplied to the washing tub 4, and in the rinsing step, other liquid agents, tablets, etc. are supplied to the washing tub 4. In the first embodiment, tablets J are supplied to the washing tub 4 in the first rinsing step. If fabric softener is also supplied, the fabric softener is supplied to the washing tub 4 in the second rinsing step.

[0107] First, the user puts detergent and one tablet J for one sterilization course into the manual feeding unit 6. The user puts the tablet J into the feeding port 63a. The feeding port 63a is not located near the end of the manual feeding unit 6, but is located between the feeding ports 65a and 66a. Therefore, even if the user accidentally drops the tablet J from his / her hand, the tablet J is prevented from falling directly into the washing tub 4.

[0108] Furthermore, by providing restriction sections (guide sections 68, 168) on the detergent case 60 and fabric softener case 61 on the left and right sides of the insertion port 63a, even if a tablet J is accidentally dropped from the hand to the left or right of the insertion port 63a, it will be caught on either the left or right guide section 68, 168. This prevents the tablet J from being mistakenly inserted into the detergent case 60 or fabric softener case 61, and allows the tablet J to be inserted more reliably into the tablet case 63. When the tablet J is inserted into the insertion port 63a, the tablet J rolls along the inclined surface 84 to the rear side L2 and is more reliably placed in the water supply position K1 (i.e., the storage space K10).

[0109] Alternatively, the detergent may be automatically dispensed by an automatic dispensing unit 7 .

[0110] <Washing process> In the washing process, the control unit C opens the water supply valve 10a to supply water to the path F1. The water flows into the detergent case 60 through the path F1 and is supplied to the washing tub 4 together with the detergent contained in the detergent case 60. The control unit C agitates the water in the washing tub 4 to wash the laundry.

[0111] <First rinsing step> Subsequently, in the first rinse step, the control unit C drains the water containing the detergent from the washing tub 4 and supplies new water to the washing tub 4 through the path F1. The control unit C continues to supply water until the water level in the washing tub 4 reaches a first predetermined water level. The first predetermined water level is a water level assumed to be necessary for the laundry to be immersed in water. The first predetermined water level may be calculated by the control unit C according to the weight of the laundry obtained in advance. For example, the first predetermined water level is a water level at which the liquor ratio becomes 10 L / kg according to the weight of the laundry calculated by the control unit C.

[0112] Next, control unit C closes water supply valve 10a and opens water supply valve 10b to supply a small amount of water to path F2 (hereinafter referred to as the preliminary water supply step). The water flows into tablet case 63 through path F2 and indirectly hits tablet J as shown in FIG. 15A. The small amount of water supply means an amount of water that is sufficient to wet the surface of tablet J but is not enough to dissolve tablet J and allow it to flow out of tablet case 63.

[0113] Here, the amount of water supplied in the preliminary water supply step is less than the amount of water supplied in the subsequent main water supply step. In the preliminary water supply step, the small amount of water supplied from water supply valve 10b may be 400 mL to 2500 mL, preferably 400 mL to 1250 mL. The flow rate of water supplied by water supply valve 10b may be 5 L / min to 15 L / min. Approximately 15% of the water supplied from water supply valve 10b is allocated to tablet case 63; for example, 50 mL to 200 mL of water flows into tablet case 63. For example, if water is supplied at 12 L / min for 5 seconds and 1000 mL of water is supplied from water supply valve 10b, 140 mL of water will flow into tablet case 63. The water supply time may be less than 10 seconds, preferably approximately 5 seconds.

[0114] Next, after the preliminary water supply step, the control unit C closes the water supply valve 10b and starts a standby time. The standby time is a time during which water supply from the water supply valve 10b to the path F2 is stopped. For example, the standby time is 20 seconds or more.

[0115] By providing a waiting time, it is possible to ensure that the tablets J moistened in the preliminary water supply step have time to effervescent. It is also possible to ensure that the water preliminarily supplied has time to penetrate further into the interior of the tablets J from the surface. The tablets J that have effervescent or the tablets J into which water has penetrated are more easily dissolved in water. By performing the main water supply step on easily soluble tablets J, it is possible to more easily dissolve the tablets J than by immediately performing the main water supply step.

[0116] During the standby time, the control unit C may drain water, supply water using other paths F1 and F3, or agitate the washing tub 4. In the first embodiment, during the standby time, the control unit C supplies water through path F1 to the washing tub 4 until the water level reaches a second predetermined water level. The second predetermined water level may be higher than the first predetermined water level.

[0117] Next, control unit C opens water supply valve 10b to supply water to path F2 (hereinafter, this is referred to as the main water supply step). Water flows into tablet case 63 through path F2 and indirectly hits tablet J as shown in FIG. 15A. Because the amount of water supplied is greater than in the preliminary water supply step, tablet J is dissolved. The dissolved tablet J is supplied to washing tub 4 together with water through mesh 82.

[0118] The amount of water supplied in this water supply step may be 30 L, or may be 120 seconds or more, for example, 30 times the amount of water supplied in the preliminary water supply.

[0119] <Second rinsing process> Next, in the second rinse step, control unit C drains the water containing dissolved tablets J from washing tub 4 and supplies new water to washing tub 4 through path F2, agitating washing tub 4. In embodiment 1, fabric softener is supplied in the second rinse step. Fabric softener is supplied by automatic supply unit 7, not manual supply unit 6. Because manually supplied fabric softener case 61 shares path F2 with tablet case 63, supplying fabric softener using manual supply unit 6 is difficult, and there is a risk of the fabric softener and tablets J being mixed. If the fabric softener and tablets J are mixed, the tablets will not be able to achieve their desired effect. On the other hand, if fabric softener and tablets J can be supplied separately, tablets J can be supplied to washing tub 4 in the first rinse step, and fabric softener can be supplied to washing tub 4 in the final rinse step (i.e., the second rinse step). Since the laundry can be rinsed in the second rinse step after supplying the tablets J in the first rinse step, adhesion of the tablets J to the laundry can be further suppressed. Since the spin-drying step can be started immediately after supplying the fabric softener to the washing tub 4, the ingredients and fragrance attached to the laundry can be maintained compared to when a rinsing step is provided after supply. Therefore, the control unit C supplies the fabric softener using the automatic supply unit 7.

[0120] <Dehydration process> Subsequently, in the dehydration step, the water in the washing tub 4 is drained and the laundry is dehydrated.

[0121] Repeating the above operation may result in accumulation of undissolved tablets J in tablet case 63. Therefore, tablet case 63 needs to be removed from washing machine 1 and tablet case 63 needs to be cleaned.

[0122] First, the detergent supply unit 5 is removed from the washing machine 1.

[0123] Using the protrusion 81c of the gripping portion 81b as a guide, the position of the gripping portion 81b is recognized, and the tablet case 63 is lifted from the main body portion 64 with the fingers hooked on the gripping portion 81b.

[0124] When the tablet case 63 is removed, the opposing state between the side wall 80 and the outer wall 89 is released, exposing the inner wall of the tablet case 63 and allowing easy access by the user. The inner wall of the tablet case 63 is washed by pouring water on it. Residual tablets J adhering to the inner wall may be scraped off using a tool such as a brush. Here, the areas where residual tablets J are likely to remain are the mesh 82 around the storage space K10, the bottom wall portion 86 at the water supply position K1, and the inclined surface 84, protrusions 87, and protrusions 88 that come into contact with the tablets J. If residual tablets J remain on the mesh 82, the openings of the mesh 82 may become clogged, potentially reducing the drainage ability of the tablet case 63. However, in the present disclosure, the opposing state between the side wall 80 and the outer wall 89 can be released to allow access to the inner wall of the tablet case 63, allowing the mesh 82 to be easily washed and the tablets J to be removed.

[0125] [summary] The above explanations are summarized to describe the features of the present disclosure.

[0126] The washing machine 1 according to the first embodiment has a tablet case for manually dispensing sterilizing tablets J, and a detergent case and a fabric softener case for manually dispensing liquid agents.

[0127] Because Tablet J is a solid processing agent, it is more likely to not dissolve completely in water and remain in the case compared to liquid or powder detergents. If Tablet J remains in the case, the amount of Tablet J available for disinfecting laundry will decrease, and the disinfecting performance of Tablet J on laundry will be reduced. Therefore, it is necessary to supply the Tablet J with an appropriate amount of water to dissolve it.

[0128] To properly supply water, it is necessary to first insert the tablets J correctly into the tablet case 63. However, because the manual insertion unit 6 is space-saving and the cases are adjacent to each other, there is a risk that the user may insert the tablets J into the detergent case 60 or the fabric softener case 61 by mistake. In this case, the tablets J may be supplied to the washing tub 4 at the wrong time, potentially damaging the clothes.

[0129] Therefore, since the insertion openings 65a, 66a of the detergent case 60 and the fabric softener case 61 are smaller than the tablets J, even if the user inserts the tablets J into the wrong place, the tablets J can be prevented from reaching the bottom of the case. Therefore, the user can easily remove the tablets J from the wrong place and reinsert them into the correct insertion opening 63a.

[0130] When tablets J are inserted into the tablet case 63, the tablets J can pass through the insertion port 63a in the vertical position, but have difficulty passing through the insertion port 63a in the horizontal position. This configuration allows the tablets J to roll and move within the tablet case 63. This makes it easy to guide the tablets J into the storage space K10 by rolling them over the inclined surface 84 and the protruding portion 87. The tablets J are also held by the protruding portion 88 so that they do not roll away from the storage space K10. This structure allows the tablets J to receive an appropriate supply of water in the storage space K10.

[0131] The tablets J can be easily placed and held in the storage space K10, and water can be indirectly applied to the tablets J in the storage space K10. Specifically, by directing the end flow paths 26b, 27b of the water supply nozzles 12, 13 toward the wall surface surrounding the storage space K10, water can be indirectly applied to the tablets J. Therefore, compared to when water directly hits the tablets J, it is possible to prevent fragments from scattering from the tablets J and adhering to the upper part of the tablet case 63. Since it is difficult to wash off the fragments adhering to the upper part of the tablet case 63, there is a risk that the fragments will remain in the tablet case 63. Therefore, by indirectly applying water to the tablets J while supplying sufficient water using such a water supply structure, the proportion of tablets J supplied to the washing tub 4 per tablet J increases, and sterilization performance is stabilized.

[0132] Furthermore, in the water supply sequence, a preliminary water supply step is performed to make the tablets J in a state where they are easily dissolved before the main water supply step is performed. Therefore, it is possible to further prevent the tablets J from remaining in the tablet cases 63.

[0133] Even if residual tablets J remain inside tablet case 63, the residual tablets can be easily removed because tablet case 63 has a one-side open structure. By configuring one side wall of tablet case 63 with fabric softener case 61, simply removing tablet case 63 from main body 64 exposes the inner wall of side wall 80, allowing residual tablets J accumulated there to be washed away. This prevents residual tablets J from clogging mesh 82 and impeding the passage of tablets J, further increasing the rate at which each tablet J is supplied to washing tub 4 and stabilizing sterilization performance. Furthermore, it is also possible to prevent tablets J with sterilization performance from remaining in tablet case 63 for a long period of time and adversely affecting tablet case 63.

[0134] The one-side open structure allows the dimension of the tablet case 63 in the width direction K to be reduced. Therefore, the tablet case 63 can be configured in a limited space, and further, space saving of the laundry agent supply unit 5 can be achieved.

[0135] [Effect 1] The washing machine 1 according to the first embodiment can achieve the following effects.

[0136] As described above, the washing machine 1 of this embodiment includes the washing tub 4 rotatably provided within the housing 2, and the laundry agent supply unit 5 that supplies laundry agent to the washing tub 4. The laundry agent supply unit 5 has a detergent case 60 (first laundry agent case), a fabric softener case 61 (second laundry agent case), and a tablet case 63 (solid agent case). The detergent case 60 is provided with an inlet 65a (first laundry agent inlet) through which the detergent (first laundry agent) is inserted, and stores and supplies the detergent to the washing tub 4. The fabric softener case 61 is provided with an inlet 66a (second laundry agent inlet) through which a fabric softener (second laundry agent) different from the detergent is inserted, and stores and supplies the fabric softener to the washing tub 4. The tablet case 63 is provided with an inlet 63a (solid agent inlet) through which the tablet J (solid agent) is inserted, and stores and supplies the tablet J to the washing tub 4. The inlet 63a is located between the inlets 65a and 66a.

[0137] With this configuration, by locating insertion port 63a between insertion port 65a and insertion port 66a, even if a user accidentally drops tablet J above insertion port 63a, tablet J will be caught in detergent case 60 or fabric softener case 61. Therefore, it is possible to prevent tablet J from being supplied to washing tub 4 at a timing not intended by the manufacturer of washing machine 1.

[0138] Washing machine 1 of this embodiment is a washing machine that performs a rinsing cycle after the washing cycle with tablet case 63 containing tablets J or with fabric softener case 61 containing fabric softener. Fabric softener case 61 is configured to be able to supply the stored fabric softener to washing tub 4 during the rinsing cycle. Tablet case 63 is provided adjacent to fabric softener case 61.

[0139] With this configuration, the manual feeding unit 6 is designed to supply tablets J instead of the liquid agent (i.e., fabric softener) that is normally supplied during the rinsing process, so by placing it adjacent to the fabric softener case 61, the path F2 can be shortened.

[0140] In the washing machine 1 of this embodiment, the tablet case 63 has a storage space K10 defined by at least the side walls 80 (wall surfaces) of the tablet case 63. The dimension D6 (width) of the storage space K10 in the width direction K (short side direction) is approximately the same size as the width D2 of the input port 63a in the width direction.

[0141] This configuration can save space in the width direction K of the tablet case 63. Therefore, the path F2 can be shortened and made more efficient. Furthermore, since the dimension D6 of the storage space K10 and the width D2 of the insertion port 63a are approximately the same size, if the tablet J has a disk shape, the tablet J is inserted in a vertical position and is stored while maintaining the vertical position.

[0142] In the washing machine 1 of this embodiment, the detergent case 60, the tablet case 63, and the fabric softener case 61 are arranged adjacent to each other in the width direction K (one direction). The tablet case 63 is arranged so that the width direction K is the short side direction.

[0143] With this configuration, the tablet case 63 can be provided without unnecessarily increasing the cross-sectional area of ​​the horizontal surface of the detergent supply unit 5.

[0144] In the washing machine 1 of this embodiment, the shape of the input port 63a is a vertically elongated shape that is long in a direction perpendicular to the width direction K.

[0145] With this configuration, when the tablet J has a disk shape, it can be smoothly inserted in a vertical position.

[0146] In the washing machine 1 of this embodiment, the detergent supply unit 5 is configured to be retractable from the main body of the washing machine 1. The tablet case 63 has a storage space K10 for storing tablets, and an opening 63b (opening) provided in the upper part of the tablet case 63. The opening 63b exposes the storage space K10 when the detergent supply unit 5 is retracted from the main body of the washing machine 1.

[0147] With this configuration, the interior of the accommodation space K10 can be seen through the opening 63b when the detergent supply unit 5 is pulled out, which prevents the user from accidentally inserting multiple tablets J.

[0148] In the washing machine 1 of this embodiment, the tablet case 63 has an inclined surface 84 (guide portion) that guides the tablets J from the insertion opening 63a to the storage space K10. The opening 63b is provided above the storage space K10.

[0149] With this configuration, the tablet J can be more reliably dropped into the containing space K10, and the dropping can be visually confirmed through the opening 63b.

[0150] The washing machine 1 of this embodiment includes a washing tub 4 rotatably provided within a housing 2, and a laundry agent supply unit 5 that supplies laundry agent to the washing tub 4. The laundry agent supply unit 5 has a detergent case 60 (first laundry agent case) and a tablet case 63 (solid agent case). The detergent case 60 is provided with an inlet 65a (first laundry agent inlet) through which the detergent (first laundry agent) is inserted, and stores and supplies the detergent to the washing tub 4. The tablet case 63 is provided with an inlet 63a (solid agent inlet) through which a water-soluble tablet J (solid agent) is inserted, and stores and supplies the tablet J to the washing tub 4. The detergent case 60 is provided with an accommodation space 77 (laundry agent accommodation space) that stores the detergent, and a guide portion 68 (restriction portion) that restricts the passage of the tablet J.

[0151] This configuration can prevent tablets J from being erroneously inserted into the insertion ports 65a, 66a. Even if tablets J are erroneously inserted, the tablets J are less likely to pass through the insertion ports 65a, 66a. This makes it easier to remove the erroneously inserted tablets J and to re-insert the tablets J in the correct place. By re-inserting the tablets J, they reach the storage space K10 and can receive water at the appropriate time.

[0152] In washing machine 1 of the present embodiment, opening size D1 (maximum width dimension) of input port 65a is smaller than longitudinal dimension D3 of input port 63a.

[0153] With this configuration, it is possible to prevent the tablet J from passing through the insertion port 65a.

[0154] In washing machine 1 of the present embodiment, guide portion 68 (wall portion) defining input port 65a functions as a restricting portion.

[0155] With this configuration, the tablet J can be easily restricted from passing through the insertion port 65a by adjusting the opening size D1 of the insertion port 65a without providing a separate restricting portion.

[0156] The washing machine 1 of this embodiment is provided with an inlet 66a (second detergent inlet) for inputting fabric softener (second detergent), and further includes a fabric softener case 61 (second detergent case) that stores the fabric softener and supplies it to the washing tub 4. The inlet 63a is disposed between the detergent case 60 and the fabric softener case 61.

[0157] This configuration makes it possible to effectively utilize the space between the detergent case 60 and the fabric softener case 61. Also, compared to when the insertion port 63a is located outside the detergent case 60 or the fabric softener case 61, it is less likely that the tablets J will fall into the washing tub 4.

[0158] In washing machine 1 of the present embodiment, inlet 63a is disposed between guide portion 68 (wall portion) provided in detergent case 60 and guide portion 168 (wall portion) provided in fabric softener case 61.

[0159] With this configuration, the insertion port 63a is disposed between the guide portion 68 and the guide portion 168, so that a tablet J that is accidentally dropped near the insertion port 63a is likely to be caught by the guide portions 68, 168.

[0160] In the washing machine 1 of this embodiment, the tablet case 63 has a storage space K10 that holds and stores tablets J. The dimension D6 (width) of the storage space K10 in the width direction K is approximately the same as the width D2 of the insertion opening 63a in the width direction K.

[0161] With this configuration, the width D2 of the insertion port 63a in the width direction K can be made approximately the same size as the thickness T0 of the tablet J, and the tablet J can be inserted and stored in a vertical position. Since the tablet J can only be inserted in a predetermined position, the user can be guided to insert the tablet J carefully.

[0162] [Effect 2] The washing machine 1 of this embodiment is configured to be able to accept water-soluble, single-use tablets J (solid tablets), and includes a washing tub 4, a tablet case 63 (solid tablet case), and water supply nozzles 12 and 13 (water supply units). The washing tub 4 is rotatably provided within the housing 2. The tablet case 63 has a storage space K10 that stores tablets J. The water supply nozzles 12 and 13 have discharge openings 24 and 25 for discharging water, and supply water into the tablet case 63 through the discharge openings 24 and 25. The water supply nozzles 12 and 13 inject water toward the side wall 80 and outer wall 89 (inner wall surface) that define the storage space K10.

[0163] This configuration can reduce the amount of water that is discharged from the water supply nozzles 12 and 13 and directly hits the tablets J. This prevents fragments from scattering from the tablets J and from adhering to areas inside the tablet case 63 that are difficult for water to reach. This prevents fragments of the tablets J from remaining in the tablet case 63 after water supply, improving the sterilization performance of the washing machine 1.

[0164] In the washing machine 1 of the present embodiment, the storage space K10 is defined by a part of the side wall 80 and a part of the outer wall 89. The water supply nozzles 12, 13 inject water toward the side wall 80 and the outer wall 89 above the storage space K10.

[0165] With this configuration, the tablets J adhering to the side wall 80 and the outer wall 89 can be washed away by the water discharged from the water supply nozzles 12 and 13. Furthermore, with this configuration, the water discharged from the water supply nozzles 12 and 13 hits the side wall 80 and the outer wall 89 before being supplied to the tablets J, thereby reducing the force of the water discharged from the water supply nozzles 12 and 13.

[0166] In the washing machine 1 of this embodiment, the dimension D6 (length) of the first side constituting the width direction K (short direction) in the horizontal cross section of the storage space K10 is less than or equal to the dimension D7 (length) of the second side perpendicular to the first side in the vertical direction.

[0167] This configuration can reduce the horizontal cross-sectional area of ​​the storage space K10 in which the tablets J are stored. This makes it less likely that the water injected from the water supply nozzles 12, 13 will directly splash on the tablets J before hitting the side wall 80 and the outer wall 89. Furthermore, the tablet case 63 can be provided in a space-saving manner.

[0168] In the washing machine 1 of the present embodiment, the dimension D7 of the second side is equal to or greater than the dimension D4 (length) of the third side that constitutes the longitudinal direction in the horizontal cross section of the storage space K10. The water supply nozzles 12, 13 inject water upward from the second side of the side wall 80 and the outer wall 89.

[0169] With this configuration, the tablet J can be brought into contact with water in the longitudinal direction (i.e., the diameter direction) of the tablet J, and therefore the tablet J can be dissolved efficiently.

[0170] In washing machine 1 of the present embodiment, the inner wall surface includes side wall 80 (first surface), which is the inner surface of tablet case 63. Side wall 80 is provided with mesh 82 (drainage portion) having a plurality of water holes for draining water from inside tablet case 63. Water supply nozzles 12, 13 inject water toward mesh 82.

[0171] With this configuration, it is possible to wash away tablets J adhering to the mesh 82. Furthermore, with this configuration, a portion of the water supplied from the water supply nozzle 12 is discharged from the mesh 82 before hitting the tablets J.

[0172] In washing machine 1 of the present embodiment, the inner wall surface includes outer wall 89 (second surface) different from side wall 80. Water supply nozzles 12, 13 include water supply nozzle 12 (first water supply section) that injects water toward mesh 82, and water supply nozzle 13 (second water supply section) that injects water toward outer wall 89.

[0173] With this configuration, the tablets J adhering to both side walls surrounding the storage space K10 can be washed off. Also, compared to when the washing machine 1 has only one water supply nozzle, the tablets J can be sprayed with water to dissolve them more efficiently.

[0174] In the washing machine 1 of this embodiment, the water supply nozzle 12 and the water supply nozzle 13 are aligned in the front-rear direction L (the longitudinal direction in the horizontal cross section of the accommodation space K10).

[0175] With this configuration, water can be efficiently applied to tablets J. Even when the space in the width direction K is limited, two water supply nozzles 12, 13 can be arranged spatially efficiently, water supply nozzles 12, 13 do not become bulky, and tablet case 63 can be formed compactly.

[0176] In the washing machine 1 of this embodiment, the tablet case 63 is provided with a protrusion 88 (holding portion) that holds the tablet J in the storage space K10.

[0177] With this configuration, the tablet J can be held in the storage space K10. Therefore, the tablet J can be held in a position where water can appropriately hit the tablet J. In other words, by providing the protrusion 88, the space on the rear side L2 of the protrusion 88 is defined as the storage space K10.

[0178] In the washing machine 1 of the present embodiment, the storage space K10 is located vertically below the discharge openings 24 and 25.

[0179] With this configuration, the dimension of the tablet case 63 in the width direction K can be made smaller than when the end flow paths 26b, 27b are arranged at a position away from the storage space K10 in the width direction K. Also, compared to when the end flow paths 26b, 27b are arranged at a position away from the storage space K10 in the front-rear direction L, the distance between the end flow paths 26b, 27b and the tablets J is made smaller, making it easier for water to reach the tablets J.

[0180] The washing machine 1 of this embodiment includes a fabric softener case 61 (first laundry agent case) that contains fabric softener (first laundry agent) and a main body 64 (case storage section) that contains a tablet case 63, and a path F2 (flow path) that is provided above the main body 64 and supplies water into the main body 64. The tablet case 63 is provided adjacent to the fabric softener case 61.

[0181] With this configuration, tablet case 63 and fabric softener case 61 are disposed close to each other, so that a common path can be used to supply water to tablet case 63 and to supply water to fabric softener case 61. Therefore, the components for dispensing laundry agents can be gathered together inside main body 64, improving user convenience.

[0182] The washing machine 1 of this embodiment includes a water supply valve 10b (first water supply valve) that introduces water from the outside. The water supply valve 10b supplies water to the tablet case 63 and the fabric softener case 61.

[0183] With this configuration, water supply valve 10b is shared between tablet case 63 and fabric softener case 61, thereby simplifying the structure of water supply member 10. As a result, the manufacturing cost of washing machine 1 can be reduced.

[0184] In the washing machine 1 of this embodiment, the tablet case 63 has an inlet 63a through which the user puts tablets J into the tablet case 63. The tablet case 63 has an inclined surface 84 below the inlet 63a that extends obliquely downward toward the storage space K10.

[0185] With this configuration, the tablet J can be guided to the water supply position K1 so that the tablet J can receive an appropriate supply of water.

[0186] In the washing machine 1 of this embodiment, the tablet case 63 has a vertical wall portion 85 (wall portion) extending downward from the lower end of the inclined surface 84, and a bottom wall portion 86 extending horizontally from the lower end of the vertical wall portion 85 and provided below the storage space K10.

[0187] With this configuration, a step can be formed below the inclined surface 84. The formation of the step can increase the volume of the tablet case 63. This can suppress the rise in the water level in the tablet case 63 and reduce the possibility of fragments of the tablets J drifting onto the inclined surface 84. This can prevent the tablets J from remaining on the inclined surface 84.

[0188] In the washing machine 1 of this embodiment, the tablet case 63 further has a protruding portion 87 that protrudes from the side wall 80 (wall surface) of the tablet case 63 at a position spaced a gap R1 (spacing) from the lower end of the inclined surface 84. The protruding portion 87 is located between the inclined surface 84 and the storage space K10.

[0189] With this configuration, the inclined surface 84 can be shortened, and the tablet J can be more reliably guided to the storage space K10. By shortening the inclined surface 84, it is possible to prevent the tablet J from remaining on the inclined surface 84. Since a gap R1 is provided between the inclined surface 84 and the protruding portion 87, water can fall downward through the gap R1, and therefore water and fragments of the tablet J are less likely to rise up the inclined surface 84.

[0190] The washing machine 1 of this embodiment is configured to be able to accept water-soluble, single-use tablets J (solid agents). The washing machine 1 includes a washing tub 4, a detergent case 60, a tablet case 63 (solid agent case), a water supply valve 10a (first water supply valve), a water supply valve 10b (second water supply valve), and a control unit C. The washing tub 4 is rotatably provided within the housing 2. The detergent case 60 contains a detergent. The tablet case 63 contains tablets J. The water supply valve 10a supplies water to the detergent case 60. The water supply valve 10b supplies water to the tablet case 63. The control unit C controls the water supply valves 10a and 10b to perform a washing process (first process). The washing process includes a preliminary water supply step, a standby step, and a main water supply step. In the preliminary water supply step, water is supplied to the tablets J by the water supply valve 10b. In the standby step, after the preliminary water supply step, the water supply by the water supply valve 10b is stopped. In the main water supply step, after the standby step, water is supplied by the water supply valve 10b to the tablets J that have undergone the preliminary water supply step. The amount of water supplied in the preliminary water supply step is less than the amount of water supplied in the main water supply step.

[0191] With this configuration, before the main water supply step for dissolving the tablets J, the tablets J are moistened in the preliminary water supply step, and foam during the waiting time, making them more soluble. This makes it easier to completely dissolve the tablets J in the main water supply step. This makes it possible to prevent incompletely dissolved tablets J from remaining in the tablet case 63 after the main water supply step.

[0192] In the washing machine 1 of the present embodiment, the washing process includes a washing process in which a detergent is added and at least two rinsing processes. This water supply step is performed in one or more rinsing processes before the final rinsing process.

[0193] With this configuration, by performing the rinsing step after the main water supply step in which the tablets J are added, the tablets J adhering to the laundry can be washed off more reliably. Therefore, color fading of the laundry can be suppressed. Furthermore, when there are three or more rinsing steps, by performing the rinsing step between the step in which the detergent is added and the step in which the tablets J are added, it is possible to suppress the detergent remaining in the washing tub 4 after the washing step from adversely affecting the tablets J.

[0194] In washing machine 1 of the present embodiment, the amount of water supplied in the preliminary water supply step is less than one-tenth of the amount of water supplied in the main water supply step.

[0195] With this configuration, it is possible to prevent the tablets J from dissolving and flowing into the washing tub 4 in the preliminary water supply step.

[0196] In washing machine 1 of the present embodiment, the preliminary water supply step is executed when the water level in washing tub 4 is equal to or higher than a predetermined water level.

[0197] With this configuration, even if the tablets J dissolve and flow into the washing tub 4 in the preliminary water supply step, the tablets J can be prevented from adhering to the laundry. Therefore, color fading of the laundry can be prevented.

[0198] [Effect 3] Washing machine 1 of this embodiment includes washing tub 4 rotatably provided within housing 2, and tablet case 63 (solid agent case) having storage space K10 (solid agent storage space) for storing water-soluble tablets J (solid agents) and supplying tablets J dissolved in water to washing tub 4. Tablet case 63 is detachably provided in housing 2. When tablet case 63 is attached to housing 2, storage space K10 is defined by opposing side wall 80 and outer wall 89 (wall surface). When tablet case 63 is detached from housing 2, the opposing state between side wall 80 and outer wall 89 can be released.

[0199] With this structure, when the opposing state of the side wall 80 and the outer wall 89 is released, the inner surface of the side wall 80 becomes easily accessible, and the accumulation of undissolved tablets J can be easily washed away.

[0200] In washing machine 1 of the present embodiment, side wall 80 has mesh 82 (drainage portion) formed to allow water to pass through.

[0201] With this structure, by releasing the opposing state between the side wall 80 and the outer wall 89, the mesh 82 formed on the side wall 80 becomes more accessible, and tablets J stuck in the mesh 82 can be easily washed out.

[0202] In the washing machine 1 of this embodiment, the side wall 80 and the outer wall 89 face each other in the width direction K (short side direction) of the storage space K10.

[0203] With this structure, the depth from the opening created when the opposing state is released to the inner surface of the side wall 80 is small. This allows the user to easily reach the inner surface of the side wall 80, making it easy to clean the tablet case 63.

[0204] In the washing machine 1 of this embodiment, the tablet case 63 forms an inlet 63a through which tablets J are inserted. The width D2 of the inlet 63a in the width direction K is approximately the same as the dimension D6 (width) of the storage space K10 in the width direction K.

[0205] With this structure, when the size of the tablet J to be inserted is approximately the same as the size of the insertion port 63a, the wide surface of the tablet J faces the side wall 80. The side wall 80 has a large area that can come into contact with the tablet J, and the undissolved tablet J is likely to accumulate. By releasing this opposing state of the side wall 80, it is possible to wash away a larger amount of the accumulated undissolved tablet J.

[0206] In the washing machine 1 of this embodiment, the tablet case 63 is arranged so that the short side direction of the storage space K10 is approximately horizontal.

[0207] This structure not only provides easy access to the inner surface of side wall 80 when the opposing state is released, but also allows tablet case 63 to be made smaller in the horizontal direction. Therefore, while ensuring ease of maintenance, horizontal space can be used effectively.

[0208] In the washing machine 1 of this embodiment, the tablet case 63 has a hook portion 80a, a hook portion 81a, and a grip portion 81b (hook portion) that protrude outward from the accommodation space K10.

[0209] With this structure, by hooking hook portion 80a, hook portion 81a, and grip portion 81b onto main body portion 64, it is possible to maintain the mounting position of tablet case 63 on main body portion 64. In addition, by pulling grip portion 81b, the user can easily remove tablet case 63 from washing machine 1.

[0210] Washing machine 1 of this embodiment further includes fabric softener case 61 (laundry agent case) disposed adjacent to tablet case 63 and containing fabric softener (laundry agent) to be supplied to washing tub 4. Side wall 80 is formed by tablet case 63 and has mesh 82 (drainage portion) formed to allow water to pass through. Outer wall 89 is formed by fabric softener case 61.

[0211] With this structure, the opposing state between the side wall 80 and the outer wall 89 can be released simply by removing the tablet case 63 from the washing machine 1.

[0212] In the washing machine 1 of this embodiment, the tablet case 63 has a peripheral wall 81 facing the fabric softener case 61. The peripheral wall 81 has a protrusion 92 that protrudes toward the fabric softener case 61.

[0213] With this structure, a gap R4 is provided between the peripheral wall 81 and the softener case 61, improving the drainage of the tablet case 63. This prevents the water level in the tablet case 63 from rising, and prevents fragments of the tablets J from drifting to the top of the tablet case 63 and remaining undissolved.

[0214] In the washing machine 1 of the present embodiment, the fabric softener case 61 and the tablet case 63 share a common path F2 (water supply path).

[0215] This structure simplifies the structure of the path F2. In the washing machine 1 having the path F2, by providing the automatic dispensing unit 7, fabric softener can be supplied to the washing tub 4 in the sterilization course.

[0216] The present disclosure is not limited to the above-described embodiment, and can be embodied in various other forms. The following various other forms may also be applied to the second embodiment.

[0217] Although the washing machine 1 is a vertical washing machine in the above example, the washing machine 1 is not limited to this. For example, the washing machine 1 may be a drum washing machine.

[0218] Although the example in which the tablet J is used as the solid agent has been described, the present invention is not limited to this.

[0219] Although the example in which the tablet J contains a component that exhibits sterilizing performance has been described, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the tablet J may contain a component that has various functions such as a fragrance.

[0220] Although an example in which tablet J contains sodium dichloroisocyanurate has been described, the present invention is not limited to this. Tablet J may also contain other dichloroisocyanurates, such as potassium dichloroisocyanurate. Furthermore, when adding tablets of a dichloroisocyanurate other than sodium dichloroisocyanurate, the tablets may be added to washing tub 4 at the same time as the fabric softener.

[0221] Although the example in which the automatic dispenser unit 7 is provided has been described, the present invention is not limited to this, and the detergent supply unit 5 may have only the manual dispenser unit 6.

[0222] Although the example in which a detergent is stored in the detergent case 60 has been described, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the detergent case 60 may store a bleaching agent.

[0223] Although an example has been described in which the tablets J have a disk shape and are inserted into the tablet case 63 in a vertical position, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the tablets J may have other shapes, and the insertion port 63a is designed to match the shape of the tablets J. Furthermore, the shape of the insertion port 63a may be changed so that the tablets J can be inserted into the tablet case 63 in a horizontal position.

[0224] In the embodiment, an example in which the mesh 82 is configured by ribs 82a and 82b extending in two intersecting directions has been described, but the present invention is not limited to this. The mesh 82 may be any mesh that forms a drainage portion or a water passage area having a plurality of water passage holes.

[0225] Although an example in which tablet case 63 has a one-side open structure has been described, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, tablet case 63 may have a lid facing side wall 80, and the lid may be removable from tablet case 63. Meanwhile, the one-side open structure of embodiment 1 makes it easier to manufacture tablet case 63.

[0226] Although the water supply nozzles 12 and 13 have a straight portion in the above example, the water supply nozzles 12 and 13 may extend at an angle from the openings 14 and 15, respectively.

[0227] Although an example in which the path F2 is common to the softener case 61 and the tablet case 63 has been described, the present invention is not limited to this. The water supply path for the softener case 61 and the water supply path for the tablet case 63 may be provided independently.

[0228] Although the sterilization course has been described as an example of a course in which a water-soluble solid agent is dissolved and supplied to the washing tub 4, the course is not limited to this. The course is not limited to a course for sterilization, and may be a course for imparting various functionalities such as fragrance to the laundry.

[0229] Although an example including two rinsing steps has been described, this is not limiting. For example, three or more rinsing steps may be included. In this case, this water supply step is performed in the rinsing step before the rinsing step immediately before the final rinsing step. With this configuration, fragments of tablet J adhering to the laundry can be more reliably washed away in the final rinsing step.

[0230] (Embodiment 2) A washing machine 51 according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure will be described. In the second embodiment, differences from the first embodiment will be mainly described, and descriptions that overlap with the first embodiment will be omitted. In the second embodiment, the same or equivalent configurations as those in the first embodiment will be described with the same reference numerals.

[0231] FIG. 16 is a schematic diagram of a washing machine 51 according to the second embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0232] The second embodiment differs from the first embodiment in the structure of the detergent supply unit. A washing machine 51 according to the second embodiment is a washing machine with a drying function.

[0233] 16, washing machine 51 has drying device 58 that circulates drying air in washing tub 4. Furthermore, washing machine 51 has lid 52 that covers the open tops of washing tub 4 and water tub 3 to form an air circulation path between drying device 58 and washing tub 4. Lid 52 seals the open tops of washing tub 4 and water tub 3.

[0234] The washing machine 51 has a detergent supply unit 55 .

[0235] The detergent supply unit 55 includes a manual supply unit 56 and an automatic supply unit 7.

[0236] Next, the configuration of the detergent supply unit 55 will be described with reference to Figures 17 and 18. Figures 17 and 18 are perspective views of the detergent supply unit 55.

[0237] As shown in FIG. 17, the detergent supply unit 55 includes a unit case 100, a lid 100a, a manual dispensing unit 56, an automatic dispensing unit 7, a water supply member 10, and a flow path member 101 (FIG. 18).

[0238] 18, the unit case 100 is a member that houses the manual insertion unit 56, the automatic insertion unit 7, and a flow path member 101. The top of the unit case 100 is open and is covered with a lid 100a.

[0239] In the following description, the description of the manual insertion unit 56 that overlaps with the description of the manual insertion unit 6 will be omitted, and the description of the flow path member 101 that overlaps with the description of the flow path member 11 will be omitted.

[0240] The configuration of the manual feeding unit 6 will be described in more detail with reference to Figures 18 to 21. Figure 19 is a perspective view of the manual feeding unit 56. Figure 20 is a perspective view showing the manual feeding unit 56 with the tablet case 113 and flow path members 115, 116 removed. Figure 21 is a perspective cross-sectional view of the manual feeding unit 56.

[0241] 18, the manual insertion unit 56 includes a main body 114. The main body 114 is a member that is held in the unit case 100 so as to be able to be pulled out in the front-rear direction L.

[0242] 19, flow path members 115 and 116 and a case 113 (hereinafter referred to as tablet case 113) are housed in the main body 114. The flow path members 115 and 116 and the tablet case 113 are housed in the main body 114 in a removably manner.

[0243] As shown in FIG. 20, the main body 114 forms cases 110, 111, and 112, the fabric softener case 110 containing fabric softener, the detergent case 111 containing detergent, and the powder detergent case 112 containing powder detergent.

[0244] In the main body 114, the fabric softener case 110 and the detergent case 111 are arranged side by side in the width direction K. The powder detergent case 112 has a space 117 formed on the front side L1 of the cases 110 and 111, and a flow path 118 extending between the cases 110 and 111. The flow path 118 is in communication with the space 117. The flow path 118 is inclined downward from the connection position with the space 117 toward the rear side L2, and has an outlet (not shown) at its lower end that is in communication with the washing tub 4. The upper parts of the cases 110 and 111 form inlet ports 110a and 111a, and the upper part of the space 117 forms inlet port 117a. The cases 110 and 111 are provided with liquid agent discharge flow paths 73 and 74, respectively.

[0245] The tablet case 113 is disposed above the flow path 118, i.e., between the cases 110 and 111. The tablet case 113 stores tablets J and has an insertion port 113a formed on the front side L1 for inserting the tablets J. The insertion port 113a is disposed between the cases 110 and 111 which are aligned in the width direction K.

[0246] Tablet case 113 has gripping parts 113b that protrude upward from both sides of insertion port 113a. When removing tablet case 113 from main body 114, the user can grasp gripping parts 113b and lift tablet case 113. Grip part 113b may be patterned so that the user can easily recognize that gripping part 113b is a member that can be grasped. In the second embodiment, a linearly extending protrusion 113c is formed on the side surface of gripping part 113b.

[0247] The flow path members 115 and 116 are arranged to cover the liquid agent discharge flow paths 73 and 74 of the cases 110 and 111, respectively.

[0248] The flow path members 115 and 116 respectively form restriction portions 119 and 120 that restrict the entry of the tablets J. As shown in FIG. 21 , the flow path member 116 has a restriction portion 120 that protrudes in the front-rear direction L between the inlet 111a and the inner bottom surface 111b of the case 111. The restriction portion 120 extends intersecting with the falling direction of the tablets J so as to prevent the tablets J inserted into the case 111 from reaching the inner bottom surface 111b of the case 111. The restriction portion 120 is provided upstream of the inlet of the liquid medication discharge flow path 74. The flow path member 115 similarly has a restriction portion 119 that protrudes in the front-rear direction L.

[0249] The tablet case 113 has a restricting portion 121 that protrudes downward at the connection position between the space 117 and the flow path 118. The restricting portion 121 extends intersecting the direction from the space 117 toward the flow path 118 so as to prevent the tablet J introduced into the space 117 from entering the flow path 118. In other words, the restricting portion 121 has the function of narrowing the entrance of the flow path 118. In the second embodiment, the distance from the lower end of the restricting portion 121 to the bottom surface 118b of the flow path 118 is smaller than the diameter D0 of the tablet J.

[0250] The tablet case 113 has a hook portion 122 that protrudes in the width direction K and hooks onto the upper part of the side wall of the cases 110 and 111. The hook portion 122 has a restricting portion 123 that protrudes further in the width direction K than the hook portion 122 and partially covers the insertion openings 110a and 111a of the cases 110 and 111. The restricting portion 123 forms an edge 124 that faces in the front-rear direction L so as to prevent the tablet J inserted into the case 110 from moving to the rear side L2.

[0251] Fig. 22 is a perspective view of the tablet case 113. Fig. 23 is a perspective view of the tablet case 113 in the open state. Fig. 24 is a cross-sectional view of the tablet case 113 as seen from the front-rear direction L.

[0252] As shown in Figure 22, an insertion port 113a is formed in the upper part of the tablet case 113. The insertion port 113a is formed to extend in the front-rear direction L from the front surface of the tablet case 113. The insertion port 113a may have a vertically elongated shape, similar to the insertion port 63a.

[0253] As shown in FIG. 23, tablet case 113 is an openable / closable member and has a first side wall 140, a second side wall 142, a peripheral wall 141, a narrowed portion 137, and a holding portion 138. First side wall 140 and second side wall 142 are connected to each other by a rotation axis X. When removed from main body 114, the orientation of tablet case 113 can be changed between an orientation in which first side wall 140 and second side wall 142 face each other (FIG. 22) and an orientation in which first side wall 140 and second side wall 142 are aligned with each other (FIG. 23). Specifically, second side wall 142 can rotate around rotation axis X along peripheral wall 141 (see arrow G). Rotating second side wall 142 to release the opposing state makes it easier to access the inner wall of tablet case 113, facilitating cleaning and maintenance of the inner wall of tablet case 113.

[0254] The first side wall 140 and the second side wall 142 form a mesh 132a that penetrates the thickness direction of the side walls. The dissolved tablet J flows out of the mesh 132a together with the water and is poured into the washing tub 4. The first side wall 140 further forms a mesh 132b on the front side L1 of the mesh 132a. The mesh 132b is formed at a height lower than the apex of the mesh 132a.

[0255] The peripheral wall 141 is connected to the outer periphery of the first side wall 140 and forms a bottom wall portion 136 of the tablet case 113 extending in the front-to-rear direction L. The bottom wall portion 136 below the insertion port 113a forms a water supply position K2 that supports the inserted tablet J.

[0256] The narrowed portion 137 is a wall portion that protrudes in the width direction K from the inner wall of the side walls 140, 142 toward the opposing side wall. The narrowed portion 137 functions to separate a first space R11, in which the water supply position K2 is located, from a second space R12 on the rear side L2. The first space R11 is a space that stores tablets J and corresponds to the storage space K10 in the first embodiment. The second space R12 is a space that allows sufficiently small fragments generated from the dissolved tablets J to pass through and be discharged through the mesh 132a. The narrowed portion 137 prevents tablets J and large fragments generated from tablets J from flowing from the first space R11 into the second space R12. Large fragments refer to fragments that are too large to pass through the mesh 132a and block the mesh 132a.

[0257] 24, the gap R5 between the narrowed portion 137 provided in the first side wall 140 and the narrowed portion 137 provided in the second side wall 142 becomes smaller in the direction approaching the bottom wall portion 136. Therefore, the structure of the narrowed portion 137 makes it easier to restrict the passage of broken pieces of a large and heavy tablet J.

[0258] The holding portion 138 further protrudes in the width direction K from the narrowed portion 137. The holding portion 138 connects the narrowed portion 137 provided in the first side wall 140 with the narrowed portion 137 provided in the second side wall 142. Therefore, even if the tablet J becomes thinner, it is possible to restrict the tablet J from moving from the first space R11 to the second space R12.

[0259] Fig. 25 is a cross-sectional view of the detergent supply unit 55. As shown in Fig. 25, the water supply nozzles 12 and 13 are provided above the water supply position K2. Water is supplied to the tablet case 113 through the inlet 113a. Therefore, the inlet 113a is used both for inserting the tablets J and for supplying water. As in the first embodiment, the water discharged from the water supply nozzles 12 and 13 hits the side walls 140 and 142 around the water supply position K2.

[0260] [effect] According to the washing machine 51 according to the second embodiment, the following effects can be achieved.

[0261] As described above, washing machine 51 of the present embodiment includes washing tub 4 rotatably provided within housing 2, and laundry agent supply unit 55 that supplies laundry agent to washing tub 4. Laundry agent supply unit 55 has detergent case 111 (first laundry agent case) and tablet case 113 (solid agent case). Detergent case 111 is provided with inlet 111a (first laundry agent inlet) through which detergent (first laundry agent) is inserted, and stores and supplies the detergent to washing tub 4. Tablet case 113 is provided with inlet 113a (solid agent inlet) through which water-soluble tablets J (solid agents) are inserted, and stores and supplies the tablets J to washing tub 4. Detergent case 111 is provided with a storage space (laundry agent storage space) for storing detergent, and a restricting section 120 that restricts the passage of tablets J.

[0262] This configuration can prevent tablets J from being erroneously inserted into the insertion port 111a. Even if tablets J are inserted into the detergent case 111 by mistake, the passage of the tablets J is restricted, making it easier to remove the tablets J from the detergent case 111 and reinsert them in the correct place. By reinserting the tablets J, they can reach the water supply position K2 and receive water at the appropriate time.

[0263] In washing machine 51 of the present embodiment, restricting portion 120 protrudes in front-rear direction L (lateral direction) between input port 111a and inner bottom surface 111b of case 111.

[0264] With this configuration, tablets J that are mistakenly inserted into case 111 hit regulating portion 120 and are less likely to reach inner bottom surface 111b of detergent case 111. Furthermore, insertion port 113a is not located near the end of manual insertion unit 56, but is located between insertion port 111a and insertion port 110a. Therefore, even if tablets J are accidentally dropped from the hand, tablets J are prevented from falling directly into washing tub 4. Since regulating portions 119 and 120 are provided on the left and right sides of insertion port 113a, even if tablets J are accidentally dropped from the hand to the left or right of insertion port 113a, they will be caught by either of the left or right regulating portions 119 and 120. Therefore, erroneous insertion of tablets J can be prevented. Even if tablets J are mistakenly inserted, they will stop at a position closer to insertion ports 110a and 111a than the bottom surfaces of cases 110 and 111, making it easier to remove tablets J.

[0265] In the washing machine 51 of the present embodiment, the detergent supply unit 55 has a liquid agent discharge flow path 74 (discharge part) that discharges the detergent and water from the storage space. The restricting part 120 is provided at the entrance of the liquid agent discharge flow path 74.

[0266] With this configuration, even if the tablet J is accidentally dropped into the insertion port 111a, the tablet J can be prevented from reaching the liquid medication discharge flow path 74.

[0267] In the washing machine 51 of this embodiment, the tablet case 113 has a first side wall 140, a second side wall 142 opposite the first side wall 140, and a rotation axis X (connection portion) that connects the first side wall 140 and the second side wall 142 in an openable and closable manner.

[0268] With this configuration, the opposing state of the side walls 140, 142 can be released by rotating the tablet case 113 around the rotation axis X. This makes it easier to access the inner wall of the tablet case 113, making it easier to clean and maintain the tablet case 113, and allowing fragments of tablets J adhering to the inner wall to be washed off.

[0269] In washing machine 51 of the present embodiment, first side wall 140 and second side wall 142 have mesh 132a (drainage portion) formed to allow water to pass through.

[0270] With this configuration, by providing mesh 132a on both side walls 140, 142, it is possible to further improve the drainage properties of tablet case 113. Therefore, even when the volume of tablet case 113 is small, it is possible to suppress the rise in the water level inside tablet case 113 and prevent fragments of tablet J from adhering to the upper part of tablet case 113 and remaining undissolved.

[0271] In washing machine 51 of this embodiment, first side wall 140 has a hook portion 122 (first hook portion) that protrudes outward from water supply position K2 (tablet storage space), and second side wall 142 has a hook portion 122 (second hook portion) that protrudes outward from water supply position K2.

[0272] With this configuration, by providing the hook portions 122 on both side walls 140, 142, the tablet case 113 can be stably held in the manual feeding unit 56.

[0273] The washing machine in a first aspect includes a washing tub rotatably arranged within a housing, and a laundry agent supply unit that supplies laundry agents to the washing tub. The laundry agent supply unit includes a first laundry agent case having a first laundry agent inlet through which a first laundry agent is added and that stores the first laundry agent and supplies it to the washing tub, a second laundry agent case having a second laundry agent inlet through which a second laundry agent different from the first laundry agent is added and that stores the second laundry agent and supplies it to the washing tub, and a solid agent case having a solid agent inlet through which a solid agent is added and that stores the solid agent and supplies it to the washing tub, and the solid agent inlet is located between the first laundry agent inlet and the second laundry agent inlet.

[0274] A second aspect of the washing machine is the washing machine of the first aspect, in which a rinsing step is performed after the washing step with the solid agent case containing a solid agent or with the second detergent case containing a second detergent, and the second detergent case is configured to be able to supply the second detergent contained therein to the washing tub during the rinsing step, and the solid agent case is located adjacent to the second detergent case.

[0275] As a washing machine in a third aspect, in the washing machine in the first or second aspect, the solid agent case has a storage space defined by at least the wall surface of the solid agent case, and the width of the storage space in the short side direction is approximately the same as the width of the solid agent inlet in the short side direction.

[0276] As a washing machine in a fourth aspect, in the washing machine in any one of the first to third aspects, the first detergent case, the solid agent case, and the second detergent case are arranged adjacent to each other in one direction, and the solid agent case is arranged so that the one direction is the short side direction.

[0277] In a fifth aspect, the washing machine is the washing machine according to any one of the first to fourth aspects, wherein the shape of the solid agent inlet is elongated in a direction perpendicular to the one direction.

[0278] As a washing machine in a sixth aspect, in the washing machine in any of the first to fifth aspects, the detergent supply unit is configured to be retractable from the washing machine main body, and the solid agent case has a storage space for storing the detergent and an opening provided at the top of the solid agent case, and the opening exposes the storage space when the detergent supply unit is retracted from the washing machine main body.

[0279] As a washing machine in a seventh aspect, in the washing machine in any one of the first to sixth aspects, the solid agent case has a guide portion that guides the solid agent from the solid agent inlet to the storage space, and the opening is provided above the storage space.

[0280] In an eighth aspect, the washing machine comprises a washing tub rotatably arranged within a housing, and a laundry agent supply unit that supplies laundry agent to the washing tub. The laundry agent supply unit has a first laundry agent case provided with a first laundry agent inlet through which a first laundry agent is added and that stores the first laundry agent and supplies it to the washing tub, and a solid agent case provided with a solid agent inlet through which a water-soluble solid agent is added and that stores the solid agent and supplies it to the washing tub. The first laundry agent case has a laundry agent storage space that stores the first laundry agent and a regulating section that regulates the passage of the solid agent.

[0281] A washing machine according to a ninth aspect is the washing machine according to the eighth aspect, wherein the maximum width of the first detergent inlet is smaller than the longitudinal dimension of the solid agent inlet.

[0282] In a washing machine according to a tenth aspect, in the washing machine according to the eighth or ninth aspect, the wall portion defining the first detergent inlet functions as a restricting portion.

[0283] In a washing machine according to an eleventh aspect, in the washing machine according to any one of the eighth to tenth aspects, the restricting portion protrudes laterally between the first detergent-agent inlet and the inner bottom surface of the detergent-agent containing space.

[0284] As a washing machine in a twelfth aspect, in the washing machine in any of the eighth to eleventh aspects, the detergent supply unit has a discharge part that discharges the first detergent and water from the detergent storage space, and the regulating part is provided at the inlet of the discharge part.

[0285] A washing machine in a thirteenth aspect is a washing machine in any one of the eighth to twelfth aspects, which is provided with a second detergent inlet for adding a second detergent, and further has a second detergent case for storing the second detergent and supplying it to the washing tub, and the solid agent inlet is arranged between the first detergent case and the second detergent case.

[0286] As a washing machine in a 14th aspect, in the washing machine in any of the 8th to 13th aspects, the solid agent inlet is arranged between a regulating part provided in the first detergent case and a regulating part provided in the second detergent case.

[0287] As a washing machine in a 15th aspect, in the washing machine in any one of the 8th to 14th aspects, the solid agent case has a storage space for holding and storing the solid agent, and the width of the storage space in the short side direction is approximately the same as the width of the solid agent inlet in the short side direction.

[0288] Although the present disclosure has been fully described in connection with the preferred embodiments with reference to the accompanying drawings, various changes and modifications will be apparent to those skilled in the art, and such changes and modifications are to be understood as included within the scope of the present invention as defined by the appended claims unless they depart therefrom. [Industrial Applicability]

[0289] The washing machine of the present disclosure can improve the functionality of the configuration for adding solid agents, and is therefore useful as a domestic washing machine, a commercial washing machine, or any type of washer-dryer (e.g., a domestic drum washing machine). [Explanation of symbols]

[0290] 1 washing machine 2. Case 3. Aquarium 4 Washing machine 5 Detergent supply unit 6 Manual feeding unit 7 Automatic feeding unit 10 Water supply member 11 Flow path member 12 Water supply nozzle 13 Water supply nozzle 26 Internal flow path 27 Internal flow path 26b End channel 27b End channel 50 unit case 60 Detergent Case 61 Fabric softener case 62 Powder detergent case 63 Pill Case 63a Inlet 65 Inlet material 66 Inlet part 68 Guide part 80 side wall 81 Peripheral wall 82 mesh 84 Slope 87 Protrusion 88 Protrusion

Claims

1. A washing tub rotatably provided in a housing; a detergent supply unit for supplying detergent to the washing tub; Equipped with The detergent supply unit comprises: a first detergent case having a first detergent inlet for receiving a first detergent, the first detergent case containing the first detergent and supplying the first detergent to the washing tub; a solid agent case that is provided with a solid agent inlet into which a water-soluble solid agent is introduced and that accommodates the solid agent and supplies the solid agent to the washing tub, The first detergent case is provided with a detergent storage space for storing the first detergent and a restricting portion for restricting passage of the solid agent, The washing machine, wherein the maximum width of the first detergent inlet is smaller than the longitudinal dimension of the solid agent inlet.

2. A washing tub rotatably provided in a housing; a detergent supply unit for supplying detergent to the washing tub; Equipped with The detergent supply unit comprises: a first detergent case having a first detergent inlet for receiving a first detergent, the first detergent case containing the first detergent and supplying the first detergent to the washing tub; a solid agent case that is provided with a solid agent inlet into which a water-soluble solid agent is introduced and that accommodates the solid agent and supplies the solid agent to the washing tub, The first detergent case is provided with a detergent storage space for storing the first detergent and a restricting portion for restricting passage of the solid agent, The regulating portion protrudes laterally between the first detergent inlet and an inner bottom surface of the detergent storage space.

3. A washing tub rotatably provided in a housing; a detergent supply unit for supplying detergent to the washing tub; Equipped with The detergent supply unit comprises: a first detergent case having a first detergent inlet for receiving a first detergent, the first detergent case containing the first detergent and supplying the first detergent to the washing tub; a solid agent case that is provided with a solid agent inlet into which a water-soluble solid agent is introduced and that accommodates the solid agent and supplies the solid agent to the washing tub, The first detergent case is provided with a detergent storage space for storing the first detergent and a restricting portion for restricting passage of the solid agent, the detergent supply unit has a discharge part for discharging the first detergent and water from the detergent storage space, The regulating section is provided at an entrance of the discharge section.

4. A washing tub rotatably provided in a housing; a detergent supply unit for supplying detergent to the washing tub; Equipped with The detergent supply unit comprises: a first detergent case having a first detergent inlet for receiving a first detergent, the first detergent case containing the first detergent and supplying the first detergent to the washing tub; a solid agent case that is provided with a solid agent inlet into which a water-soluble solid agent is introduced and that accommodates the solid agent and supplies the solid agent to the washing tub, The first detergent case is provided with a detergent storage space for storing the first detergent and a restricting portion for restricting passage of the solid agent, a second detergent inlet for receiving a second detergent, and a second detergent case for receiving the second detergent and supplying the second detergent to the washing tub; The solid agent inlet is disposed between the first detergent case and the second detergent case.

5. The washing machine according to claim 4, wherein the solid agent inlet is disposed between the restricting portion provided in the first detergent case and the restricting portion provided in the second detergent case.

6. A washing tub rotatably provided in a housing; a detergent supply unit for supplying detergent to the washing tub; Equipped with The detergent supply unit comprises: a solid agent case that stores a water-soluble solid agent and supplies it to the washing tub; a first detergent case that stores a first detergent and supplies it to the washing tub; the solid-drug case is provided with a solid-drug inlet for injecting the solid drug into the solid-drug case; The first detergent case includes: a detergent storage space for storing the first detergent; an inlet member having an inlet formed therein for injecting the first detergent into the detergent-containing space, and arranged to cover the detergent-containing space from above; The inlet member functions as a regulating portion that prevents the solid agent from entering the laundry agent storage space.

7. The washing machine according to claim 6, wherein the solid agent case is configured to allow a water-soluble, single-use solid agent to be put therein.

8. the solid-drug case has a storage space for storing the solid drug in a held state, The washing machine according to claim 1 , wherein a width of the storage space in a lateral direction is approximately the same as a width of the solid agent inlet in the lateral direction.

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